ALWAYS AUDACITY

CHAPTER XXV – AUDACITY

Rex's office was just as welcoming as ever, given the soft seats and the little details and accessories placed within it. There was nothing that its owner had done to try and make someone physically uncomfortable to be there.

And yet, Sam still felt uneasy. Mainly thanks to the pain, now reduced to a dull throb that ran through his entire body. Almost as if he had pins and needles stabbing his… well, everything. After the last few days of getting beaten and torn apart, no amount of Heal Pulses was going to actually help the process of healing now. Sam would have to heal up the old-fashioned way now. Even if he could take an extra Heal Pulse, there were Pokémon who would need far more help physically and mentally compared to himself and even if there wasn't he doubted Rebecca would be wanting to treat him again.

Actually, it was probably best he didn't see her at all for a bit.

But it wasn't just that. It was also impatience. Sam remained on station along with Alice, Rex and Team Spirit until other members of the Guild could arrive to relieve them, as well as apprehending the remaining bandits. Once those numbers had been built up, Rex directed Sam and Alice to accompany Jack and Kyle back to Robinswood.

Whilst father and son would hurry back home upon their return, the two rabbits had very specific orders to wait for at Rex's office for the Guildmaster.

The Scorbunny paced across the upper part of the office, brow furrowed in thought. It had been over an hour since they arrived here and there was still no sign of Rex. He could hear the signs of increased activity below, and the sky seemed that little bit brighter in the direction of the port. But even so, the wait was gradually wearing the Scorbunny fine.

"If you keep walking like that you'll burn a hole through the floor." Alice said.

The Buneary was sat down on one of the wooden seats by the desk, one ear lazily raised with her eyes closed and hands behind her head. Sam glanced between her and the floor, then the bottom of his feet. "I suppose you're right." Sam admitted. I mean, if I can set pebbles on fire, this wood wouldn't last very long.

He shook his head, "This is just taking too long." He said, walking up to the chair alongside Alice's and climbing on to it. "What if something has gone wrong? Aidan could have pulled another trick or Greg could have got back up."

"You're worrying too much." Alice replied, opening her eyes and pulling a thrown. "They have Rex there. He can handle anything. And I'd be surprised if Aidan pulls something else out now."

Sam sighed, looking towards the empty high-backed chair. "I just can't shake this feeling that something else could happen."

"A little bit of caution isn't unfounded, but I am a little hurt at your lack of faith."

Both rabbit's ears jerked up as Rex strode into the office, rubbing one of his wrists with his free hand. Sam bounced to his feet, "Rex! I didn't mean any offence-"

"Don't worry about it too much." Esper reassured him, stepping into the room just behind the Guildmaster with a small smile. "The old man likes to spook people from time to time."

Rex visibly rolled his eyes, a chuckle breaking out. "Thank you for spoiling my trade secret Esper." He motioned with one hand as he climbed up the steps. "Please, stay seated."

Sam plopped himself back down as Rex walked behind the desk, standing to look through the window overlooking Robinswood whilst the Meowstic positioned herself by one of the curtains lining the edge of the room. Rex held his gaze, looking over the town with a practiced eye for a solid minute. Even leaning slightly to the side or closer in to get a better view of some invisible scene down below before turning back towards the recruits. "Apologies for keeping you waiting. You'll be glad to know the fire looked worse than it actually was. A few Pokémon will need some time in the clinic, but we'll expect a full recovery from everyone."

"Kyle is sleeping back home." Esper added, arms crossed. "He's shaken up quite a bit, but I'll be working with Jack and his partner to make sure he's okay."

Sam sighed with relief, almost sensing his heart loosen itself up. It was a win on both fronts. The main thing that mattered there was the lives of the Pokémon, Kyle especially given what he had been through. Frankly, Sam couldn't care any less if the dock burnt to a crisp, as long as everyone there was safe.

"Sounds like we got lucky there." Alice mused, "And what about the bandits?"

"All locked back up in the prison." Rex confirmed, "I've seen to it personally that our old friend has been given a sturdier cell and extra guards."

It took Sam a couple of seconds to realise what he meant. "You can't be serious. He's-"

Rex nodded, "Greg's alive. He's badly hurt, but he'll live with treatment."

"He can't be talking. Not with the fireballs we threw down his mouth." Alice said.

"Thankfully so." Rex replied, "He wasn't happy to say the least. And I can understand his circumstances."

Sam frowned, biting back at the urge to growl. "He's a crook. He deserves to get locked up."

"That's if he is lucky." Esper said quietly, eyes narrowing.

Alice tilted her head at that one, "I don't see how that's lucky."

Esper glanced over at the Guildmaster, the avian Pokémon merely motioning with his hand towards the two Pokémon. "Before we left for Broken Wood, I sent out information requests regarding Greg and his gang." Esper started explaining, stepping away from the wall. "In case there was a bounty on any of them. I received a criminal record from Grass Continent."

She hesitated for a moment, "Greg has over a dozen charges relating to thievery. Four charges of assault… and one charge of murder on the Grass Continent."

Esper let the words hang in the air for a moment. He committed murder before coming here? Sam pondered, but the train of thought was quickly stopped as the Meowstic continued. "According to the report, Greg had killed a shopkeeper by breaking his neck during a break in gone wrong. Greg always insisted that it was an accident, of how he has always been stronger than most of his species. But the law on Grass ultimately treated it as murder."

It was Sam's turn to tilt his head, twitching his ears, "And he managed to get away out here."

"And he's certainly killed more since then." Rex said, "That Marowak may well be the latest, provided he doesn't somehow come back to life on us, being part-ghost type. Regardless, Grass has jurisdiction over us. We're required to add additional charges as witnessed. That's at least another three charges of murder, as well as kidnapping."

Rex let the words hang for another second before Esper continued, "If Greg is lucky, he'll face a life sentence. If not…"

She didn't continue, but the implication was obvious. Sam's mouth dropped open a couple of millimetres, one ear tipping over. He wasn't sure what to think. Pleased with Greg facing something as severe as a death sentence… or horrified that it was even on the table.

That would make all his talk about survival make sense. He knew if he got caught, he would probably be biting the bullet not long after.

Not that it made Sam feel sorry for Greg. Understand his position perhaps, but it didn't excuse everything he has done.

"Either way. Greg will be out of our hands soon enough. He'll be transported back to Grass to stand trial." Rex stated, before lowering himself down into the high-backed chair. "That leaves only two problems. Aidan and Zeke."

Alice blinked. "Zeke?"

"The Electrike that Sam and Aidan recovered from Broken Wood." Esper explained. "He's a member of the missing Team Nitro."

Sam straightened back up in his seat, the memory of the crazed electric Pokémon resurfacing with a vengeance, enough that his head pulsed more sharply than before. "I remember too well." Sam said with a wince, "What's up with him?"

Esper didn't need any blessing from Rex this time, "He's still in a coma. Even Rebecca had no luck in reviving him. Given the state he was in and the condition of Broken Wood, we have to assume that his team mates are either just as crazed, or dead."

"How he even got into that state is a more interesting question." Rex stated, "But until we can find a way to rouse him or look into his mind, monitoring him is the best we can do."

That wasn't exactly comforting. Zeke was effectively a complete mystery compared to everything that happened. And Sam couldn't help but feel annoyed with himself for forgetting about the electric type.

"Aidan is a problem for obvious reasons." Rex stated, "But between the port attack, Broken Wood and Greg's kidnapping, he will be long gone now. The best we can do is arrange for a bounty, but it'll be a long time before that could be recouped.

"He's covered his tracks for so long, we'll probably never find him again." Alice stated.

Sam looked down to find his paws screwing up into balls. They may have succeeded in saving those lives, but Aidan had still got away with everything he wanted. At least at the surface anyway. He let out a frustrated sigh, "We'll find him." He grumbled under his breath, "Someday."

"We will." Rex said quietly, prompting the Scorbunny to jerk back upright.

The Guildmaster clicked his beak. "Putting all that aside." He started, leaning forward onto the desk. "We must settle on your punishment."

Sam blinked, his mouth slackening as the gravity of what Rex just said kicked him in the gut.

"Are you-kidding me!"

Sam and Alice's voices rang out with a joint shrill, loud enough that Esper seemed to recoil from the edge.

Rex barely reacted to that, nor to Sam leaping up onto his feet. "Seriously! We saved Kyle and beat the crap out of Greg when no one else was on hand!"

Alice bared her teeth, "How does this make sense!?" she growled.

Rex's eyes narrowed, the Blaziken stiffening in his seat as he held an unflinching glare. "I gave you very specific orders to guard Robinswood." He stated, "And to send someone to report any incidents to me if anything had happened."

Sam snapped his arms out to the sides, nostrils flaring. "You know what Greg is capable of! I couldn't jus-"

An avian fist slammed into the desk, the boom ringing through the entire room. Sam's rage was extinguished in an instant, the Blaziken quaking in front of him. Even Alice's eyes widened in fear, tucking back against her chair. Of to one side, Esper was smirking. "Instead of waiting for support, you both leave Robinswood less defended, with only your fellow recruits!" Rex barked, "Instead, you run into the woods to fight a powerful Pokémon who has already killed other Pokémon, without informing anyone of where you were going or leaving indicators of where you had been! If it wasn't for Perry informing Team Spirit of your plans and the tracks Greg had left behind, you would have had to face Greg and his crew alone!"

The Scorbunny stepped back into the back of his chair, stomach sinking as the Guildmaster rose to his feet, the temperature of the room rising with him. "Your fool-hardy charge into danger could have got you and others killed or wounded! Your attempt at heroics-" he jabbed a finger into the air, eyes flicking over to Alice to promptly shut her up, her mouth hanging ajar before continuing. "Your heroics may have saved a life, but you may not be so lucky next time! Even though you have the best of intentions in mind and the will to risk your lives for the sake of others, you will need guidance for the far greater challenges to come!"

Rex leaned forward, pointing a finger straight at the two of them. "With that in mind! You will both receive the Bronze Rank upon your initiation into the Guild!"

Sam recoiled, about to throw a challenge back. But it died just as quickly on his tongue. Wait, Bronze Rank? What?

At the edge of the room, Esper had a gigantic smile on her face as the Blaziken held his gaze on the two frozen rabbits, before with a sparkle in his eyes, he leaned back upwards, a little smile on his face… and clearly struggling not to chuckle. Sam sighed, his legs giving out as he slid down back onto his seat and burying his head into his hands. Hidden out of sight, he pulled a small smirk.

"That wasn't funny." Alice growled, shaking her head as she relaxed into her seat. But her expression indicated that she didn't have the will to get angry with the Guildmaster.

"This humour doesn't suit me, I admit." Rex wheezed, coughing to stop the chuckle.

Esper's smile widened, "Like I said, the old man likes to spook people."

"I know all too well." Alice replied, rolling her eyes with arms crossed.

"And now I do." Sam replied, bringing his face out of his hands. "But Bronze Rank? What's that all about?"

With a final cough, Rex straightened himself back up in his seat. "In all seriousness, what you did was reckless and dangerous." He nodded firmly at the two rabbits as they got themselves resettled onto their seats. "But at the same time, I can't deny your own abilities. Very few Rescuers could go through what you two have been through at such short notice." He tapped a talon on the desk, "Therefore, rather than bringing you into the guild at Normal Rank along with the others, we might as well give you a rank more fitting for your abilities. Two ranks up to be exact. And at the same time, make sure you each receive more advanced training. So you can put that talent to the appropriate kind of use."

Esper's smile faded away, "The last time someone jumped up the ranks like that was Team Spirit." She explained, "That was five years ago. And before that, it was a Team that played a major role in the Dark Matter Crisis. Getting a higher rank out of the blue is an indicator that you could be rubbing elbows with some of the best teams in the world sooner rather than later. Thats a lot of responsibility that you need to be willing to accept when the time comes."

Sam sharply took in a bit of breath. It was a huge leap up in the rankings… but was he even ready for that? He felt his gut tighten, but with another breath, his body relaxed once more. He had already been through Broken Wood and multiple fights to the death. That, and for some reason being a Rescuer, even on training felt so fulfilling to him. Saving a few more lives here and there, he could get behind that.

Nevermind possibly finding out more about who he was.

"So Sam?" Rex questioned, "What do you say?"

He realised that the two leading Pokémon were staring at him. Sam straightened himself up, eyes flicking between the two before letting a small smile shine through. "Thanks Rex. Count me in."

Rex's eyes sparkled briefly before he nodded back. "Very well then. Welcome to the Robinswood Guild." He motioned with a hand, "I can get an individual rank arranged, but we still need to arrange for you to join a team. My powers and ability to call in favours aren't exactly limitless."

Sam visible winced, "Sh- I forgot about that. I was going to ask Bruce if he and his team would be fine with me tagging along." He rubbed the back of his head with a nervous look, "But if you want me to join another Bronze Rank team, I won't object."

"I can pull up a few names, see if they have any spaces on hand." Esper said, "I would be more than happy to put you into Team Spirit, same with Alice, but as we're at Diamond Rank, it wouldn't really be fair to throw you into the deep end."

After what Sam had been through, he couldn't really argue against that. There wasn't much point in Sam cramping Spirit's style. Just knowing them would be good enough.

"Speaking of which," Rex started, turning back towards Alice. "I know you said you would drop out Alice, but there are still spaces open if you wish to join the Guild."

The Buneary's expression was surprisingly neutral, at least at first glance. Her head dipped forward, eyes flicking towards the ground. "Actually." She said softly, "I've already got an offer to join a team."

Alice lifted her head back up, looking towards Sam.

"If that offer's still open Sam?"

That hit him like an Onix. Sam only just managed to stop himself gaping at her as he spun round. "Alice!" he managed to utter in surprise, "I thought-"

"I didn't want to make your life hell?" she finished for him, stepping off the chair and dropping down to the floor. "I still don't want do that. But…" she visibly hesitated, as if trying to work out what to say next. Before closing her eyes and with a little smile, shrugged. "To be honest, we made quite the team and it felt kinda… nice to work with someone who just saw me as… me. Rather than some curse. So I guess… why not?"

"Alice…" Sam said softly, dropping down from his own seat shakily, unsure if he was dreaming or if this was really happening.

She opened her eyes again, letting her smile grow. "Sam. I would be more than happy to form a team with you, if you'd have me." She reached out a hand, "Partners?"

He blinked, staring down at the open hand. Still processing it all. But he didn't question it. Now wasn't the time to do that.

Sam couldn't stop himself beaming a massive smile at Alice, "Partners." He declared warmly, clapping his hand against hers and squeezing it tight.

If anything, Alice's hand squeezed even tighter.

Rex and Esper glanced towards each other, sharing a joint smile between themselves before the guildmaster turned back towards the two rabbits. "Well, welcome to the Guild you two. I never thought I would see the day anyone would have the audacity to pair up in such a way."

They let go, Sam raising a brow at Rex's choice of words. But before he could question it, the Blaziken continued. "That makes the paperwork easier as a bonus." He admitted, "We can mark you in as a Bronze Rank Rescue Team, but with the recent events, we are going to officially bring in the new members tomorrow as a morale boost. That means we are going to need a name, colours and a symbol. Tonight."

Alice's smile vanished, "Ah crap…" she uttered, "I've… kinda didn't think of anything like that. Didn't think I would have much of a choice."

She glanced over at Sam before shrugging sheepishly, "If you have any ideas, I'm all ears."

Crap, this is a bit on the spot is it!? Sam thought, a cold sweat seeming to kick in on his brow. I mean, I haven't put much thought into it either! Not that I thought we would have so little time. He tapped his foot, rubbing the back of his head, What could I use? A name should have a good meaning. It should show we're daring right? Regardless of how daft it… seems…

The word flashed back in his mind. The one that Rex had used. He didn't really know the reasoning for that choice of word but at the same time, knowing the definition behind it – it could work. That left symbol and colours.

That was easy, his hand automatically reaching for his jacket pocket. It was still there, the armband. It couldn't be a perfect match. No way. He couldn't use their emblem like that. Inspiration though… that could work.

"Actually." Sam started, "I might actually have something we could work with."

The sun was slowly beginning to rise, but the forest floor remained dark enough to conceal his movements from any prying eyes above his head.

Aidan didn't bother looking up though, his eyes fixed on the path ahead with his sack slung over his shoulder. His attack on the port went without a hitch. In and out before anyone had noticed he was there. Paired with his plan to use Greg as a distraction, his aim to extract all remaining traces of his operation would have been easily hidden away or outright removed.

The Frogadier croaked a heavy growl. Of course Greg had to be an idiot and blow it. Again, something so incredibly simple and yet again, the Swampert had made a complete hash of his objectives. He was lucky to get out the obvious evidence and material. The rest he would have to make do with being hidden away from prying eyes.

Still, he hadn't counted on Sam and his cursed little friend. Aidan took the time to march by the clearing he had told Greg to use. And what did he find? That damn fire rabbit, someone he trusted kicking the shit out of the beast with the cursed bitch.

He had to admit, Sam had grown so much since he met him in the barracks. It was almost admirable in a way, Sam was audacious. The Frogadier had to love him for that.

He shook his head in disgust, pushing onwards. Even so, Aidan kicked himself for not breaking the Scorbunny's neck when he had the chance. It was something so easy for himself to accomplish, it would have only taken a second. He let his feelings get the better of him. He would have to do better to keep them in check.

Afterall, he didn't slip up before with Team Nitro.

The Pikachu Owen and his team weren't the first ones to get a whiff of his operation. Zeke and his own team managed to get a glimpse of his operation before. He had hoped that they only caught an unclear glance of things in action. But as it became clear that they were starting to dig around for more information, he realised it would be best for them to 'disappear'.

It was surprisingly easy. Poison Zeke, have them wonder into a Dungeon on an out of the blue rescue mission, and await the call for them being missing. So convenient, so easy.

And again, out of nowhere, he finds Zeke with Sam in tow. He couldn't risk Zeke regaining consciousness, no matter how crazy he was and potentially connect the dots. So whilst everyone was off trading stories around the campfire, he quietly slipped in and poisoned him again. Fingers crossed, Zeke won't be waking up anytime soon.

Still, this was a setback. He would have to rebuild comms and trust with his contacts once he had established his operations. That would-

-take time?

Aidan stopped dead in his tracks, eyes flicking towards the source. Leaning against one of the trees was a tall, slender figure. A black cloak wrapped round her – at least, he thought it was a her – judging by the voice. Was that telepathy? Or was it just so… otherworldly that it seemed to resonate inside his head. He turned to face her, placing the sack down to one side. "Who are you?" he questioned, readying himself into a combat position.

The cloaked figure pushed herself off the wall, revealing herself to be towering over him without any problems. I am merely a… intermediary. She said, My master has a proposal for you.

Aidan frowned, shaking his head. "I would be more than happy to arrange a meeting with your… employer." He said, "But my hands are somewhat tied right now. If you allow me time to establish a new base of operations, then we can set up a business-"

My master will see that you are established. This proposal cannot wait.

She waved a clothed arm to one side of the tree, stepping aside. Something flickered in the air beside them. With a brief flash of light, the air itself folded on itself, and with a low and heavy boom, a colourful tunnel formed alongside her.

Aidan's eyes widened, taking a step at the back. "What is this?" he whispered.

All will be explained.

Aidan hesitated, his mind racing. If someone could do this…

Reaching down to grab the sack, Aidan stepped forward, and followed the cloaked figure into the tunnel.

"…and despite these challenges, we have all shown that it doesn't matter where we have come from. We have stood together and emerged not only stronger, but closer together as Pokémon." Rex said, standing on a wooden stage positioned in front of the Guildtree. The sun was shining high above the town and before him, most of the citizens of the town were gathered. Amongst them, a great many members of the guild, all decked out in their team colours. He could see Team Spirit off to one side, watching with clear smiles on their faces. A round of applause rang out amongst the wider crowd, a few cheers accompanying them. The guildmaster let them proceed, adjusting the two armbands he had on his arms. One was the black and gold armband he normally wore, the other was a red and gold one that flashed the emblem of a five pointed shooting star.

"When I took up the post of Guildmaster here, I did so for three reasons. Firstly, to play one final, relaxed role in the Guilds before I decide to retire, after thirty years of work."

He let the words hang in air for a moment, before casually lifting his hands up to his sides. "Guess how that turned out."

Laughter rose up from the crowd at that, the guildmaster letting a little chuckle slip out. "Secondly, to do my absolute best to make this Guild one of the most welcoming in the world, making a difference to help every single person in this town, just as I have done for years."

Rex placed his hands behind his back, "And thirdly, so I could perform the greatest of honours. Welcoming the next generation. Pokémon of Robinswood. I am incredibly proud to welcome three new Rescue Teams to the ranks of the guild. It doesn't matter where they have come from, and every single one has shown extraordinary resilience, willpower, compassion… and courage. And we are delighted to count them among us."

He stepped to one side, Esper climbing up onto the platform to join him, holding a chest up in place. "First of all, Team Active and it's members Edward and Denver!"

Another round of applause rolled forth from the crowd as the Skiddo and Skorupi emerged from the Guildtree and climbed up onto the platform, the latter having his injured legs wrapped up in light bandages. The two were visibly beaming as Rex and Esper pulled out a pair of red scarves with a bright green emblem on them, as well as two peach coloured badges and secured them on their person.

As the two Pokémon gave each other the best high five they could, Rex turned back to the crowd, motioning for them to simmer down. "Next up, we have Bruce, Nia and Dan as Team Seekers!

Bruce led the way up onto the stage, with Dan shakily following close behind. The little Morpeko was so nervous, he nearly toppled over back down the stairs, eyes widening. But with a flutter of her wings, Nia appeared alongside him and pulled him back onto the platform. Bruce took a glance at them, his massive smile faltering only briefly as he made sure the two were okay. Once they were all safely up, they lined up like Team Active, and received their own badges alongside their green scarves – armband in the case of Dan – complete with a white emblem composed of a leaf, a pair of wings and a lightning bolt.

As the crowd quietened down once more with the three Pokémon sharing one giant hug between, Rex once more gained their attention. "And finally, our final new members. I would like you to join me in welcoming Sam and Alice, of Team Audacity!"

Sam took in a sharp breath, one foot already on the step as the clapping began. "Ready?" he asked.

Alice shrugged, "As ready as I'll ever be. Just don't expect a lot of applause."

The Scorbunny merely tilted an ear at that one, "We'll deal with it." he replied, and with a final check, the two climbed up in lockstep and into view.

On cue, the crowd seemed to quiet down, a few cheers being cut short. Sam felt a cold feeling sink into his gut, were they really not going to give them a chance? No, he had to stay strong. Keep up a-

But then the cheers re-erupted, the applause rising back up once more even louder than ever. Enough that the Scorbunny actually slowed mid-step. He glanced over towards Alice, the Buneary also slowing. Her eyes blinked rapidly, as if trying to workout if this was a dream herself.

A few whistles blew through the air. The two other teams turning and clapping their paws or cheering them over. Even Bruce and Denver couldn't help but pull small smiles as they approached.

Sam could hear her sniff.

He didn't leave her hanging, wrapping an arm over her shoulder as they walked up to join the others. I've got you partner.

She looked over at him, trying and failing to hold a little smile at bay. "T-Thank you."

Rex smiled as they pulled up alongside the others, reaching into the chest and pulling out a pair of woad blue armbands from it. Each one christened with a silver X-shaped star, overlaid with an oval shaped tear that symmetrically cut the X in two. Similar, but not identical to the Guardian emblem. If the Guardians seemed as noble as they sounded, it seemed reasonable to be inspired by their exploits.

"Congratulations." Rex said proudly as he placed the perfectly fitting armbands on, holding back for a moment as the two rabbits adjusted them before reaching back into the chest and pulling out two similar, but differently coloured badges from the others. These ones were coloured gold rather than peach, with a small egg-shaped object at its centre with two clear wings stretching out to the sides. At the centre of the egg, surrounded by the gold, was a green coloured gem. The Bronze Badge.

Rex handed the two Guild Badges over, the Scorbunny marvelling over the craftsmanship of the badge as it settled neatly into his hand. It's official now… Sam mused, feeling a warmth burn in his chest. As Rex addressed the crowd once more, he turned towards his partner. "Everything you expected?" he quietly asked.

Alice didn't look at him, eyes fixed on her own badge. "No. Not really."

He raised a brow at that as she turned towards him with a wink, "But it still feels nice."

Sam smiled back, "I'll take that."

"There will be greater challenges to come." Rex stated, addressing the crowd and dragging Team Audacity's attention back to the front of the stage. "But with luck, courage and friendship on our side, we will overcome whatever disasters come our way and get back to what this guild, and this town, was founded to do in the first place." He stretched his arms out to the side, directing his words to all present. "To explore this world. Together!"

He did a small bow, before stepping aside and putting his hands together. "One more time, let us welcome our newest Guild members! Team Active! Team Seekers! And Team Audacity!"

The crowd erupted into a ravenous roar of applause, and with their newfound guildmates cheering at their side, Sam and Alice shared a wink and pumped their badges above their heads, soaking in the cheers from Robinswood.

POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON

GUARDIANS OF BALANCE

EPILOGUE

Night had once more fallen over the town, and the only light available in the office was a small, glowing white orb placed on the table.

Rex was seated, looking down on the two objects held in hand. In his left, was the red armband he had worn at the initiation ceremony today, complete with the gold shooting star. In the other, he held a small-framed photograph. It was slightly brown in colouration, but he could still make out all the original colours on it. And most importantly, the Pokémon.

Four of them stood in the shot. To the far left, holding the photograph device known as a camera with his right arm was a Combusken, a happy expression on his face. Behind him, a little bit further along to the right was a Kirlia, who despite the feminine look was actually male. He held what appeared to be a sword blade in one hand as he looked up at the camera, flashing an inquisitive look at the camera. Further still to the right, was a Buneary and a small looking Zangoose with a tuft on his head, the latter looking slightly panicky as the Buneary was growling viciously at the feline. Neither had seen the photo being taken.

All four bearing the same red armbands with a golden star.

Rex couldn't resist smiling at the sight. Team S.T.A.R. Those were-.

A knock clunked across the room, the Guildmaster placing the armband and photo flat on his desk. "Come in."

A door swung open and creaked shut, and out of the darkness of the lower level, Alice emerged. Her blue armband still fitted to the arm along with her Bronze Rank badge fitted to it. "Hello Alice." Rex greeted her, "How are you settling in with Sam?"

"I've settled in the new room well enough." Alice replied, one hand placed on her hip. "Sam is staying in the barracks for tonight. He wanted to check up with Kyle and Jack one more time, but he'll be up here tomorrow morning." She tilted her head, "That, and he wanted to check over Aidan's room again. Just in case."

Rex nodded, listening carefully to her words. Aidan's betrayal had clearly hit Sam hard, but he was grateful that Sam was taking the time to check on Jack's family. "Are you alright with that?"

"I encouraged him." Alice said, pulling a little smile. "Kinda makes sense, and I can get stuff sorted out in our room and we get less looks with Jack. It's a win-win."

The smile faded as she focused on Rex, "Did you want me?"

"Yes." Rex said, turning in his seat to the side, "I wanted to show you something."

As Alice made her way round the edge of the desk, Rex pulled out one of the drawers and reached inside. He pulled out two badges from the drawer. They resembled the guild badges he had given out today, but the wings were more angular, the eggs were sharper and lacked an outline. Both were silver, with a crystalline, shining core at their centre. The Buneary's eyes widened, "Are those old Diamond Rank Badges?" she questioned.

"Indeed they are." Rex explained, "Rescue Badges from before the ranking changes made them Master Rank."

He handed the two over to her. "They belonged to your parents."

Alice froze, her hand hovering over the two badges before she took them carefully from his hand. "W-Where did you find them?"

"I went back to Avio Town last year." Rex said. "Not much has changed since then. Including your old home."

He leaned forward in the chair, "I know you never wanted to return but… I felt then was the time for myself to get some closure." He motioned at the badges. "They had them in their safe. I had a spare key." He closed his eyes, "They belong to you now."

Alice looked over the badges, wiping her eyes. "Mum and Dad… are they…"

Rex nodded, "They were still there." He whispered softly. "Someone had left flowers before I arrived."

A bit more hesitantly, she nodded back, eyes focused on the badges. "Good." She managed to say, looking back up at Rex. "Thank you."

"Your welcome child." The guildmaster replied. "Alice. If your parents were here right now… they would be incredibly proud of you."

"I know." The Buneary replied, holding them close to her chest. "Master Rank, right?"

"Indeed."

A small smile formed on her lips. "Then I've got a lot of work to do catch up. Same time tomorrow for training?"

Rex let out an amused huff, "Same time. Nice and early tomorrow."

"Got it. I'll see you then." She turned and made her towards the office door.

The Blaziken turned to watch her go, "I'm not going to make it easy on you kiddo." He said warmly. "You're Bronze Rank now."

Alice turned round to face him, backstepping as she flashed a wink. "Whatever you say Uncle. I'll be ready."

Rex smiled as Alice departed the room, leaving him all alone. He stared at the closed door for a solid minute, I've not seen Alice so happy in two years. Tyera and Sylvain would be glad to see that.

Standing up, Rex took the glowing orb and the photograph of Team S.T.A.R and brought it over towards one of the bookshelves at the side of the office and placed it down next to another, newer photograph. In that one, standing side by side were four fully evolved Pokémon. A Blaziken, a Gallade, and with one arm wrapped around the other, a Lopunny and Zangoose. All four sharing the same red armbands.

Rex felt his smile grow wider, Rest in peace old friends.

There was one more thing he needed to do tonight. It couldn't wait.

He returned to the desk, reaching back into the drawer and pulling out a blue, coin shaped device with five orbs fitted to the sides, leaving a slot where a sixth one would be. Taking a blue orb out, Rex slotted it into the device. It beeped in response, lighting up as Rex placed it down onto the desk.

He went through the options on the modified Expedition Gadget and opened up the system he wanted to use. It beeped once, then twice. And finally clicked before going silent.

"Luke?" Rex asked, "Are you there?"

A sharp crackle and whine rang out from the device, enough for Rex to wince before the voice finally emerged from the other end. "Sorry about that Rex. The signal is pretty bad around here, I would have got in touch with you sooner. How cushy has life been?"

Luke spoke with a light, but distinctive accent that seemed somewhat rough. Not to different from-

He shook his head, "Rather busy actually, keeping yourself occupied out there?"

"You could say that. So what do you need old friend?"

Rex tapped the desk, hesitating for only a second before finally speaking. "I believe we have found a human."

The gadget crackled, almost as something had been dropped before Luke's voice came through again. Firmer this time. "Are you sure?"

"My deputy Esper caught a psychic trace from him just last night." Rex replied, "She was spooked enough she actually got tripped up by some Spinaraks in a fight, but she is positive that he considers himself human."

"Esper, Esper…" Luke mused, "Wasn't she the one who worked with Auraflame during the Dark Matter Crisis?"

"One and the same. She mentioned that once she picked up that trace, she couldn't help but make the connection between Sam and Auraflame."

"Sam?"

"The human. Well, he's a Scorbunny now."

"Any other familiar symptoms?" Luke quizzed him, "Amnesia? Any strange powers?"

"He only remembers his name as far as we know." Rex said, "He has Libero, but that isn't ground-breaking on it's own, especially since it's been sporadic."

"Sporadic?"

"It barely activates."

"I see. Has he mentioned himself being human yet?"

Rex shook his head, "Not to my knowledge. Only myself and Esper have an inkling of his status."

Luke audibly sighed with relief, "Good. We don't need anyone trying to chase him up on that."

"He's joined my Guild with my niece." Rex confirmed, "And he at the very least has good intentions, but Luke… if Sam is indeed a human-"

"Then these disasters are just the beginning." Luke finished for him. "I can pack up and be out of here by tomorrow, but have you tried to speak with the others?"

"Esper has tried to get back in touch with Team Auraflame, but they are currently working on a project back in their village. Last I heard from home, Team Warden has been having trouble between it's members for months. Team Relic is out of contact on an archelogy expedition and Team Heart was never officially a guild team anyway, and without them having a Expedition Gadget it would take too much time to get a message to Paradise without my best messenger anyway."

"So I'm your best bet. I'll pack my things now. I'll be on my way within the hour. The best thing you can do now is to keep an eye on Sam and Alice. If Esper is correct –"

"They are equally in as much danger." Rex noted, feeling his chest tighten up. "I am all to aware. Especially if his warning is true."

"After all this time? Possibly. He did try and end the world because of it."

Rex leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing. "I'll protect them." He stated, "But we need to confirm this as soon as possible. It'll be up to us to guide them, so they'll be ready for this threat when the time comes."

"Including Alice?"

Rex hesitated, the word nearly dying on his tongue. "Yes." He said softly, "Especially her."

"We'll get it done Rex."

Swallowing, Rex nodded firmly, talons digging into his desk. "Of course. I'll hold the fort until you arrive. Then we can work out how to stop what he warned us off all those years ago."

He hissed the next word out, "Armageddon."

Luke chuckled from the other side of the device, "Believe me Rex. Even considering where I'm based at the moment… I'll be there before you know it."

Sam turned under the sheets, eyes squeezed shut as he shifted position in his sleep.

You had positioned yourself on the other side of the room, sitting yourself down on what had been Aidan's bed. You watched him intently, wanting to reach out and put a hand on his shoulder. Try and comfort him. But a part of you knew that he wouldn't even feel it.

Still with him, hmm?

The shadow formed alongside you, plopping down next to you with a swirl of darkness. He has proven most resilient. I know you wanted to jump in and help him again. There might have been a moment where that was necessary. With Aidan and with the Swampert. Thankfully for you, he has Alice to watch over him as well, so any action on your part was unnecessary.

Sam twitched, shifting position once more as the shadow joined you in watching. I have seen the mural by the way. The shadow explained, It took a great, painful amount of effort to avoid Volcanion's attention, but it has paid off, if only in pennies.

You turned towards him, a shadowy hand rising up into the air, The mural is most certainly ancient. Even the language eludes me. However, I did recognise the stylisation of the art. It was once created by an ancient civilization of Pokémon. One that was so isolated, that even the gods themselves don't know the answer of what happened to them.

The shadow turned towards you, Conveniently, at the same time that Volcanion vanished so did they. And the art style has existed on practically every continent in some form. That being said, I have only seen a similar design in one other place… could it-

It shook it's head, turning it's gaze towards Sam, still stirring. You watched on in silence. An ancient civilization was certainly a valuable piece of the puzzle. But where? And how did this sort out the problem before you?

I believe part of the answer, The shadow continued, Lies in Sam's dreams.

You turned towards him, the shadow pausing before pressing on, Do you remember when we first met? There was a dream of an ancient castle under siege. I have… experience with dreams. And I can make a fair guess it was Sam's before he woke up in this world.

The shadow seemed to hesitate; I have a suspicion… he could potentially have the same dream again. Perhaps with more context. Yes… even from here I can sense it. In the corner of his mind and yet with what has happened to him… it's just out of reach to him. But perhaps I can tap into it. Hopefully without-

They paused, turning back to you. If you wish, I can try and bring that dream into focus. Perhaps we can all learn something. But I must warn you… it will be quite… vivid.

You looked between the shadow and Sam himself. What to do… what answer could be learnt from within…

The castle was in flames. Dark clouds blanketing the sky. The distant cry of battle and death ringing far below.

Atop one of the battlements, watching over the battle in the courtyard being fought below, was a yellow and black feline. Piercing blue eyes watched on, fists clenched at the chaos. At the death.

The Zeraora was clearly enraged, but they held their tongue. Maintaining a cold expression as they watched on. The situation was dire. There wasn't much time.

What was clear to any viewer now however, was the armband it wore. A blue one with a silver cross and tear embroidered onto it.

"Maister!"

Eyes widening only a touch, the Zeraora turned to find a tall, red and white rabbit sprinting towards them. A Cinderace, a blue armband also wrapped round their arm. But when they spoke, the words were… indiscernible. Strange, and yet familiar. "The tete is aseelid, and the path is openyd! The gounglings, seruaunt, and handmaide goith out, and oure sistris fleen!"

The orange eyes looked down the battlefield below. "We han no ferther tyme to spare maister. I wol se the def-"

"Ye wolen." The Zeraora interrupted in the strange language, "Y wole that ye lede hem to sikirnesse, and that ye seche oure biheest. And if oure ordre falle here, Y schal yyue hope to oure werriours to fle."

The Cinderace looked alarmed. "But maister, ye wol been expos!"

"Aventure I shal take." The Zeraora continued, much more softly this time. "As ye wole with youre heestis. If Y make the mesure, be ye spred abrood; be ye hid in derknessis, for to serue the liyt, as oure lord comaundide."

The Cinderace opened his mouth, ready to argue back. Before his ears dipped. Closing his eyes, the Cinderace placed an arm across his chest and bowed his head. "I wol kepe hem maister."

That seemed to satisfy the Zeraora, the feline smiling as they stepped forward and placed a hand on the Cinderace's shoulder. "I woot ye wole brother. Now go ye. And ealdor alwealda fro the bigynnyng kepe you, as youre herte goith."

Raising his head, the Cinderace smiled and placed a hand of their own on the Zeraora's shoulder. They shared a final nod before finally letting go, the Cinderace sprinting back into the depths of the castle. The Zeraora watched them go, slowly rebuilding their steely expression. A flash of green caught the Zeraora's attention, bringing them back to the edge of the battlements.

Down below, the battle had ceased. A dark Pokémon emerging from the smoke.

The Zeraora's eyes narrowed, hands clenching the rock of the tower.

"No." they hissed with a masculine, now clear voice, "I will not allow for them to freely start Armageddon all over again!"

Blue energy crackling around them, the Zeraora vaulted over the battlement, and jumped into the sky.

A cold, evil grin formed on the Zarude as it glanced back down towards the ground, watching as one defender, a Machoke, tried to drag himself away from danger. The simian approached, raised its right foot…

And slammed it down on the defender's neck with a vicious crack. The Machoke's eyes widened, a faint gasp escaping as its body went limp. A flicker of intelligence remaining evident before finally, it's gaze went blank.

The defenders shuffled back, fear becoming terror as the Zarude's smile grew even more morbid. It started to approach again.

A blue bolt flashed as it struck the ground with a sharp thundercrack, all Pokémon, attacker and defender alike, flinched backwards as the electrical energy sparked across the battlefield, separating the two sides.

All except the Zarude, who's smile vanished completely.

As the electricity faded away, a patch of clouds parted, revealing the untouched splendour of the moon and shining a new light onto the fortress.

Standing before the Zarude, holding position in front of the defenders was the Zeraora.

The Zarude seemed to hesitate for the briefest of moments.

Then it let out a bestial roar, a green vine unravelling from one of its arms into a whip, pulsing with dark green energy as it snapped round. Air rushed around the Pokémon, tugging at the other Pokémon present who once more retreated.

Unbowed, the Zeraora merely cracked its fists together, blue electricity sparking as its eyes narrowed.

And with that, it broke out into a run, a snarl forming as it charged for the Zarude.

The Zarude, whip still flailing in the air, charged forward, whipping it down towards its new opponent.

The Zeraora leapt forwards, it's fist crackling with energy.

The whip and fist connected.

The surrounding Pokémon cried out in shock as the blinding flash of green and blue light, pulling back as the two Pokémon sprung back from the strike, before lunging at each with a vengeance. The Zeraora's fists crackled blue, competing with a pair of glowing green blades that the Zarude attempted to counter with. Around them, Pokémon screamed as they charged back into battle or barked out orders. Some of the defenders began to withdraw, commanders ordering them to retreat through the gateway. The attackers tried to swarm them, but the arrival of the Zeraora had emboldened them, and those that remained on the front line threw themselves into the fray with renewed vigor.

One fist and blade slammed together with a boom, the Zeraora and the Zarude's faces just inches away from each other.

The Zarude smirked.

The Zeraora growled.

Roaring, the Zarude shoved the feline away, the green blades fading away for another whip.

Eyes widening, the Zeraora through themselves aside, the whip barely just skimming past their gut. The Zarude attempted to charge, only for two more warriors to spring forward, covering the Zeraora and pushing the powerful simian back. The Zeraora stepped forward, only to feel a wave of heat surge past their back. The spun round, just in time to see a giant fireball slam into another charging grass type, engulfing the attacker in flames, sending them screaming away.

Spinning round, the Zeraora looked back up to the battlements to find the Cinderace atop them, one foot placed above a Pyro Ball. The electric feline flashed a nod back, as did the Cinderace, who swiftly sprinted further along the battlements. The Zeraora's attention was drawn to the inner gateway, many of the fighters having successfully withdrawn back, many beginning to filter through. Only a handful were now fighting to defend it.

Leaping twice, the Zeraora pounced back to their defensive line and joining their ranks. Amongst the ranks of the attackers, the Zarude was slowly walking towards the line, a green blade glowing. The two warriors that had lunged for it were stumbling away, re-joining their comrades. Eight, ten, eleven defenders now at the gate including the Zeraora.

Eleven against an entire army.

The Zeraora narrowed their eyes, focused on the Zarude. They couldn't hold them off. It was time.

"Take flight warriors." They ordered, "Join the others. I shall hold them at bay."

A Staraptor warrior was on the ground next to them. One wing very clearly twisted and broken. "No. We'll stand with you Master."

The Zeraora looked over their comrades once more. Checking the will of each and every one of them. With a small smile on their face, they turned back to face their invaders. "To death then."

Blue energy crackling around their fists, bright balls of energy began to form around them. On cue, the ten remaining fighters charged into the ranks of the attackers. The Staraptor leapt for the Zarude, only to scream as a green whip struck it across their neck with a sickening crack and sent it flying into a crowd of attackers.

The electric orbs grew bigger, charging further. The air crackled around the Zeraora.

Another warrior tried to block the Simian, for a green blade to slice across their throat. The Zarude's eyes burned, teeth bared as it broken into a sprint, trying to close the gap.

The Zeraora closed their eyes, a word on their lips.

The green blade slammed into their chest. The feline cried out, the dark Pokémon lifting them up effortlessly into the air and slamming them into the stone walls of the battlements. The blue energy dimmed.

"Your interference Zaiell…" the Zarude growled, shoving the blade deeper into the Zeraora's chest. "Ends tonight!"

Zaiell coughed, blood dripping out his mouth.

The air buzzed around them, the Zarude's eyes widening as the balls of electricity glowed brighter than ever.

They couldn't react in time to the Plasma Fist flying against their face. He let out a feral scream, trying to scramble away. Eyes snapping open, Zaiell bared their fangs. "I may die today Kain, but you will not destroy the Guardians!" They booted their feet against the wall and kicked themselves forward, throwing their full weight against Kain and sending them to the floor with a sickening crash. The Zarude kept on screaming, the electricity burning away the fur and skin on their face. Even their eye was milking over, sparks crackling across it.

Face twisted with pain, the Zeraora lifted their free fist up, crackling with blue electricity. "You may burn our home. But we will live on! And you will fail!"

With a final roar, Zaiell slammed the Plasma Fist into the ground.

Bright blue light exploded outwards, consuming the two combatants in light and fire. The defenders, all nearby, couldn't even react before they themselves were consumed. The attackers had more time to react, a few of them who were further away screaming before they were caught out in the blast, others scrambling to run, their backs burning as they dove for cover.

But even that wouldn't help them. Explosions quaked through the ground, throwing rock into the air. Blue fire burst out of the battlements of the castle, climbing up to the highest towers right down to the ocean.

The whole ground shook violently, and confusion and shock turned into complete terror. The attackers turned, screaming as they tried to flee, cracks spreading through the ground and across the entire castle. Even those outside on the natural bridges and the mainland could only look on in horror as the towers shuddered free and came crumbling down. Entire rock faces sliding off and dragging battlements down into the ocean with a thunderous crack.

And then the mainland began to quake, even as the ground tore itself open underneath those inside the castle and sending them plummeting to their deaths. Even the flying types weren't safe, many of their cries being cut short as they were struck by projectiles flung from the disintegrating fortress.

The natural arches finally snapped, rock tumbling away and bringing those unfortunate enough to be on them down with them to earth. Sheer panic consumed the attackers, each and every one desperate to flee.

The entire island that the fortress was on began to sink, descending into the waves. From a distance, even the mainland began to crumble. Trees were uprooted, houses collapsed and fires burst into life across the ground.

It wasn't just the fortress now. The entire island was collapsing into the sea… ready to take everyone with it.

Sam sprung upright with a jolt, crying out in terror. He panted, hands patting his chest. I-I'm alive! What was-

Then he noticed them. Just for a split second. Two ghostly shapes floating above him. One was a dark shadow, the other was translucent, with a faint white glow. The latter didn't even look like any Pokémon he would-

The shadow stilled itself, a bright blue light flashing in its darkness.

And then they were gone.

Sam blinked rapidly, rubbing his eyes before looking again. Still nothing.

A-Am I seeing things? I'm not surprised but… His eyes drifted across the room, focusing on one of the two armbands laid out alongside him. His Team Audacity armband… and the armband of the Guardians.

"W-What the hell was that… did the Guardians…"

Sam tucked his legs in, curling up into a ball, willing his heart to slow down.

He only began to calm down as the Butterfree Jack burst through the door, quickly landing by his side and holding onto his shoulder tightly. "S-Sam! Are you alright!? What happened?!"

Sam sucked in a deep breath, "I… I don't know…"

You remerged at the top of the Guildtree, on the very same small balcony that offered a view of the Tree of Life. You wanted to scream. Scream at the shadow.

The dark shadow hung in open air; a blue eye glowing ever brighter. No no… this is terrible… no! This cannot be!

It spun round on you, eye burning. I'm afraid Sam catching even a glimpse of us is the least of our concerns. For I have seen this dream before.

Surprise flooded your being. As did confusion. Anger. Even some happiness. You tried to shove the emotions aside, focusing your attention on the shadow, begging for it to answer.

This dream… someone else here has been having it. I took the opportunity to investigate their mind… if two people are sharing the same dream… then I believe we may have seen a hint about the horror that is coming. And that one Pokémon who shares that dream. The one that could provide Sam and ourselves any clarity or answers…

The shadow seemed to stiffen, ...is currently unconscious in Robinswood's clinic.

The clinic was dark, most of the Pokémon resting within asleep on their own beds peacefully.

Save for one.

Isolated from the rest, hidden behind a locked door, the Electrike Zeke was spasming on his bed, legs kicking out and head jerking back and forth. His face was twisted in pain.

The epileptic attack only lasted for a couple of seconds before the electric type's body finally slumped and visibly relaxed. Seemingly back at peace.

Nothing happened for another couple of seconds.

But then, just as sharply and suddenly, Zeke's eye snapped open.

Glowing green…

EPISODE 1: ALWAYS AUDACITY COMPLETE

TO BE CONTINUED…

Author's Note: And with that, the first Episode of Guardians of Balance, Always Audacity, is now officially complete with the longest chapter by far! I will be taking a short break from writing primary chapters for Guardians of Balance whilst I get ready for a new job, but not for too long, as I'm already planning out the second Episode of the fan-fic. And I've already got some very good ideas on how it's going to be shaped. I'm very much looking forward to working on that Episode soon!

I am also still looking for suggestions on what kind of bonus chapters you may want to see before Episode 2 starts. This could be anything, so please, if you have any ideas, please let me know!

This has been a year in the making, and I will be coming back to the older chapters to do some edits and make sure they are all neatened up. But Guardians of Balance's story will be continuing.

I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to read this and especially providing reviews. I greatly appreciate it, it and has really helped me out from time to time. It means a lot.

In either case, GoB will continue! I hope you will tag along as this story continues, because believe me… it's only just getting started.