Out at the Ranch, the band were getting ready for some preparations as Leon crossed his arms and looked over to a green house that met inspection. "So, we'll need to make sure that door way is being constructed before we decide on taking off. Sounds pretty simple."

Riku agreed with that as he looked over to Poppy and Terra, who were passing some words along with the Secret Squad. "Ken, Xion and their squad are going to take it easy while they figure out how to deal with that cities super villains. That biotech company has tried dumber things before with this organic siege machine that got blasted to kingdom come."

Leon guessed. "Chaos machine?" Riku repeated. "A Chaos Machine. Aqua and Ven should get to the bottom of what ever the hell that crook and the Triangle are up too, we'll know things are escalating if the worlds guide us over to Gravity Falls. Meanwhile, Roxas and the others can help get this town organized."

Leon was pretty envious of the Secret Squad. "This mysterious, odd town... all to themselves." Sora finished petting his trusty Butterfree and letting her fly off to the Ranch, who showing a heart binder that has a distinct glow. "When the time comes, I'll call upon you." The Butterfree nodded to the boy and took off as Kairi, Azu and Iceberg were seeing Mickey and his guard returning. The King gave an approval. "That spot would do if we can match the design of the one Ken is building." Donald explained. "It will get awkward if he's building a closet door while we're making a gate."

Kairi was more than pleased to report. "He's making a double entry door, so a gate isn't far off. It's possible to make it if we have a Star Shard of our own." She looked over. "Terra said it would be okay if we borrow the one at the Realm Gate." Mickey didn't see how that would be complicated. "We'll need Namine's help to make sure it's extracted safely. After that, it should work like before on less power."

Over by the fence, Terra explained to the Secret Squad. "The mission is important, but you can afford to take it easier if there's not a lot of conflict like there was at the other town." He noticed Denryk spacing out and looking over to the mountain. "This also means you. Believe me, a lot of us want to teach those low lives a lesson. But once you start striking out of that kind of anger, it's going to be hard to stop at just them."

Denryk took a deep breath and half focused. "That's why it's biting hard. I didn't blast that guy's knee off to be nice, he was just annoying the heck out of me while I had something better to do." Dupmic imagined the greater cruelty of that action. "Fair point, but if he didn't take the lesson before, he wouldn't after the second time. Are you... picking up something from the wilderness?"

Denryk blew to the air, not wanting to say he's trying to ignore them. "Just a feeling that someone's lonely over there and that someone might be looking back at the town." He put a finger to the side of his head and apologized. "Sorry if I'm not front and center, Big Boss. That feeling didn't go away last time."

Terra wondered what the sensation is and waved a hand. "You don't have to call me that. Think you can do more to figure out where that is coming from."

Denryk nodded. "If I concentrate and block out some noise." He closed his eyes as Namine put a hand to his shoulder. The hoodlum felt a vision, he and Scraggy were side by side on the edge of a cliff. Overlooking the distant lamp lit town. At the edge looked to be a creature the size of a small child. It's back was faced towards the boy, showing something looking like a green cloak put together by smooth leaves. It had a set of black horns and black legs that look like a black trunk of a shrub. It turned around to show the horns connected to black bindings that resemble a thorny vine of a black hoodie. Most of the body looked like a green shrub, with yellow round fruit and a white flower. The face was orange, with yellow eyes that have white star shaped pupils. Her mouth had two downward fangs.

She gasped in astonishment and was quick to put on a teal, tribal mask with a tan, wicked grinning beak like mouth. The cheeks of the mask looked akin to a fan of leaves with a glow of crystal on each one and the crown of the mask was of teal leaves, with a center having a star shape crystal. All of it complimented by glowing white eyes. It brought out a spiked, ivy cudgel as Scraggy flinched. "Hey, hey! We just showed up." He turned to his partner. "How did we get here in the first place." Denryk felt the nerve to speak. "I don't know, but it looks like she's been looking over at Traverse. Pretty looking place, isn't it?"

The little ogre kept her cudgel at her non existent hands and nodded, bringing about a voice akin to a small girl. "Yeah. It looked like there was something special that happened. A bright star rose from that village and became a needed sun."

Denryk admitted. "Some girl brought about a Volcarona to be the sun this land needs." He approached and pointed. "If you take a look, you'll see it's a moth." The Ogre looked and jumped in joy as she saw the six wings. "That is a Volcarona. That place welcomes Pokemon?"

Scraggy nodded. "Gladly, you're interested in stopping by?" The Ogre sweated nervously. "Already?" She contemplated. "Wouldn't anyone get spooked if they see me or my masks?"

Denryk turned to find a cave as the Ogre had another worry. "These four jerks wouldn't leave me alone if they know I'm going to travel." She giggled half heartily, with a fear. "I get scary when someone tries making me mad." Denryk laughed to that. "You and me both! How about this," He turned to the Ogre. "There's some dudes that are wanting to explore the lands over here. If you give me and my friends time to set that up, we'll take care of those jerks and you can come see what the town's all about. You have any friends to pass this along too?"

The Ogre thought about it. "Well... there's this dragon I met up here that's a bit grumpy. But she's pretty nice when you get to know her. What's your names?" Scraggy introduced himself. "Just call me Scraggy" he pointed up to his partner. "and this is my boss-" Denryk pointed to himself. "Denryk. By the way, that's a nice mask. Did you make that?"

The Ogre blushed under her mask. "I had a little help with the crystals of Terapagos. But that was a long time ago in the land of changing lights. If you got some wood and carving skills, you can make a mask too." Denryk gasped. "You know, that might be a good idea. What's your name, by the way?" The Ogre put her cudgel away and greeted her new friend. "Just call me Ogerpon."

Scraggy laughed. "Ogerpon? Nice name." Denryk agreed with that and felt a voice calling to him. Waking him up from his projection. "What ever I'm doing to project over here is stretching thin. If this is happening for real, I'll do something really stupid when I see you again. Okay?"

Ogerpon was left imagining the silliness as Denryk felt himself waking up, back to Traverse Town. He looked around to find the band looking at him, like he's done something weird. Scraggy came out of his ball and squeaked.

(Boss, I had a weird dream.)

Denryk blinked awkwardly as Namine stood in front of him and insist. "Everyone, don't!" Dupmic asked. "Don't what? One moment he was standing there in that zen and the next, he started laughing. It's like he was talking with someone." Denryk didn't mind. "Yeah, so?" He looked to Poppy. "Does the Dex talk about some pokemon that goes around wearing a mask? Any that look like an small orange tree?"

The girl went to do just that as Roxas realized something and crossed his arms while smirking. "You've made a friend, didn't you?" Poppy saw a particular name and cursed some luck. "There's one, but there isn't a lot of data on her. Ogerpon: The Mask Pokemon: Grass type. This mischief-loving Pokémon is full of curiosity. It battles by drawing out the type-based energy contained within its masks. This Pokémon's type changes based on which mask it's wearing. It confounds its enemies with nimble movements and kicks. I think this data was shared recently, because Jaqu's student was busy putting together what was seen." Leon explained. "He's a contact that shared Dex info."

Poppy showed a picture of the Ogre with the mask. "If she's been in Ultra Space, then any intel that might have been from this land called Kitakami, would be around useless." She asked the hoodlum. "Now I wish to know, how you were able to project all the way over to that mountain."

Denryk had little idea. "Beats me, after I screamed Ken's heart out, I started feeling some distinct stuff from far away. Someone really wanted to know what is going on over here and she was pretty lonely without many friends." Sora heard that. "You mean after screaming your heart out? You and Ken are sharing the same stuff, but that's all you."

Roxas asked his subordinate. "So you do care about others? You think you can try that without all the anger though?" Denryk blew out to his superior. "If I try, you got pissed off as well when you heard what Aqua was talking about." Roxas shared that scowl. "You darn right I did. But that can't be the strongest feeling you got."

Denryk took a deep breath. "It's better to act than it is to get scared of what's going on. But right now, we need to figure out our next move." Namine had concern. "Our problem right now is that we don't have enough munny for a room, so we'll have to find Wanda and ask."

She went to Kairi. "While I help these guys get that shard out safely, you boys find the Mayor. Okay?" The boys took off as Poppy wanted to tag along. "Hey, you'll need someone to say the right words!" With them taking off, a familiar wizard asked. "Goodness." The band turned around to find Merlin. Mickey waved hello. "You've arrived just on time. We're needing to ready a couple doors to certain worlds and we could use the expertise."

Merlin hmmed. "It's all in the technique, now. What are you needing that for?" Namine started with the basics. "We need to make a door that will connect to the one Ken is using and a Star Shard would make it so we'll arrive exactly where we'll expect to go. The one that our friend, Doofenshmirtz would need shouldn't be too specific, given that he knows his world more than-"

At the town hall.

The band of four kids and a Scraggy were at the door while Roxas finished a talk with Denryk. "There's nothing wrong with taking off that mask and showing us the real you. You're a side of Ken that's finding something to call your own." The gray eyed hoodlum smiled at something said. "And I want to make a mask so Ogerpon won't feel too lonely when I see her again. One that has to be just right and fits me. This place needs a festival or something to make it more fun."

Dupmic looked around. "You know, you might be right on that. I think we could pull it off if we try." Roxas rolled his eyes and shook his head in a smile. "If we can, the mission comes first more than anything." Poppy advised. "It might be a good idea to keep the details on Ogerpon to yourselves, because how you found out about her is what worries me. Where has that come from?"

Denryk shrugged. "Heck if I know?" Roxas called a time out. "Let's think of that, Kairi's other is special due to where her heart was when Sora rescued her the first time at the Bastion." The Hoodlum nodded. "Yep, yep! So that weirdness is how Namine got those powers over the mind and memories." Dupmic whispered to Poppy. "Namine can make someone forget who they are and she can read everything she needs to know about you."

Denryk pointed over to Roxas. "And since Sora's so close to what a heart even is and proved he can be a champ. You were able to use the power of the Keyblade? Come to think of it, those dudes at the gang, did their others have elemental stuff like what they're using now?"

Roxas nodded. "Yep." Denryk recalled. "And the first two things I brought out was a baseball bat that Ken kept by him for self defense and a lass pistol because that gun he picked up started his whole adventure." He explained to Poppy. "He picked up some laser rifle that became a keyblade because of his heart stuff." He went back to asking. "Other than remembering some of his skills, that's where the good shot came from. Even if I haven't gotten the chance to really bash a skull. So why am I picking up that sense when I start feeling a lot?"

Roxas thought about it. "Most of those guys get pretty freaky in the senses, but that had everything to do with how they use the Darkness. Ken taps into something much deeper than that, despite it sharing that shade." Denryk realized something and shivered. "All that passion, that strange love and finally letting that fear go. But that kind of stuff needed a lost of discipline to even use, let alone control it." He undid his hoodie, lifted his beanie up and scratched the back of his head. "But when I feel that emotion enough, it calls to me. Nothing else mattered at that point."

Roxas went to open the door. "That in itself isn't the problem, it's the fact you're feeling that from someone miles from here and it's someone you don't even know. If we can get a place around here, it can keep the noise away while we focus."

That is voted upon and the band went in, finding a front desk clerk in average looking clothes, who recalled something described and let them head to an office with a high open ceiling. Clearly meant for a Gryphon. Wanda was handling paper work and requests. The mayor noticed them and waved. "Ah, Roxas, Poppy. That call went well, I presume?"

Dupmic corrected her. "Mostly well, until we learned that this crook, Braig, struck a deal with this psycho dream demon that helped bring Armageddon. Aqua, Ven and these kids we know are trying to get that under control while the rest of the Guardians are setting small projects over here before taking off." Wanda calmly put her pen down. "This criminal, who've assisted Xehanort in his scheme to obtain Kingdom Hearts, is working with what is essentially a Chaos Daemon that isn't bound to that Realm... or the Warp as some call it?" She kept a calm face and advised. "You should bring this knowledge to Resira. Most of us already have this man as a shoot on sight. Just now, anyone who has a second thought on not staining the towns with more blood aren't going to be considering that anymore."

Poppy guessed. "Chaos... much like this thing that nearly broke through Ultra Space a couple months ago?" Denryk put a hand on Poppy's shoulder and took her a ways back, where he and Roxas could whisper. The squad leader spoke out. "Wanda and Resira came from a different realm and a different galaxy that couldn't be any more different from the nexus we live in. Both are torn in war because of the Forces of Chaos."

Denryk spun a finger to the side of his head. "It's just Resira's Galaxy is full of crazies that would shoot someone for even bringing the name up. Since the Chaos is gone, we can get away with saying that word. Resira's really good at what she does." Dupmic hoped. "Once she finishes the details of Volcarona's roost, she'll report over here."

"It's as well as it's going to be. With enough sand and burnable shrubbery to keep him warm until he has to rise again. Now, could you repeat the rest. Because I believe you're speaking of a traitor and of certified heresy."

Dupmic looked over to the arrival of the police officer and repeated slowly. "Xehanort's accomplice, is working with a dream demon that helped the Chaos gods bring about the end of the worlds. We're not talking of an idiot who was caught up in a secret order because he had nowhere else to go. We're talking someone who struck enough deals with Bill and one of them was just so he can hurt us."

Denryk cringed as Resira admitted. "Child, I've put down the deceived. But due to how you lot are masters of delivering them from the darkness, I'll speak of this." She promised the mayor. "If I hear about that man being anywhere in this town or the ones connected by the train, he will burn." Dupmic laughed to her and was given a stare. "And I don't mean a simple fire ball either."

Poppy oddly felt invigorated. "This is the same man that threatened my cousin, has put countless pokemon in danger and other crimes I'm not aware of. I'd argue he deserves worse." Resira agreed with the girl. "He has ruined countless lives and his actions have cost lives, whether directly or as a consequence. Vengeance, justice, the line is blurred."

Denryk bobbed his head. "So, once the dudes at Gravity Falls kick his butt a new one, he'll be in for a nasty one if he brings his bull around here. You know of that big thing at the Bastion?"

Resira does. "With an objective of importance that would turn the tide on this Shadow Pokemon crisis. Wanda and Ienzo have informed me of that kind of heresy that has endangered enough worlds as is. If that rabid dog's masters point him over there, then that would be where I'll lend my aid. You can never have too much protection in these times."

Wanda appreciated that. "Indeed. Now, I suppose you lads are thinking about where to be when you need rest or some alone time?" Roxas explained the more important details. "We need a room or something for the night. We got lucky at the other town, because there was an empty mansion with furniture. We don't got that here." Resira ahed. "Well, say no more. I know just the convenient spot to consider." She explained to Wanda. "I believe Hater is looking for something for his... pass time in this town and that should be our clue for any pokemon that are in this town's corners." She turned to the boys. "Should his findings be what I believe it is, then we cannot afford to let him accumulate their power. Once he has that ship of his built, then he will return to being a villain."

Poppy cringed. "Erk! We really shouldn't let him have any pokemon on his side, to help with what ever world conquest scheme he has in mind." Wanda confessed. "We're not lending him aid for building that thing and there's only one other way to travel between worlds safely. But if he's as ambitious as he appears, he will find away to make it happen."

Roxas guessed. "You know a hotel that is close by that place?" Wanda put her paper work aside. "We do and I could commission that you'll have a room. We'll explain the details along the way. Speaking of which, where has Namine gone?" The squad leader let the Mayor and the officer take the lead. "She's helping some of our friends with a project. They'll be around."

Poof!

After a short explanation to Merlin, the Guardians of Light and Leon found themselves in a puff of smoke and are at the Land of Departure, where a door back awaited them and a Realm Gate that's inactive. For most of them, this is something that should have been expected from Merlin. For Leon though, it's a whole new experience. The mystic land bellow and the castle were all sights the youngster was taken aback by. "Terra, is this the place that you and your folks live in?" The grown up nodded. "Yup, if you have anything to ask, now is the time."

Pop!

Out of a dream ball came Pō, who was left in his ball for most of the day. The bird looked around and gasped at the sight. (Well, I'll be. Mystical lands as far as the eye can see, in view of Champions and Legends.)

Leon pat the dark bird on the wing. "Pō, this place was among the first to be searched; thanks to Daphne, Wawae and the others. We're only here to pick up one thing." He noticed a particular door that isn't connected to anything as Namine went to the gate and brought out a drawing. "This should take me a while to lock up the mechanisms. With it, the pocket gate would be sealed away. Allowing us to extract the Star Shard without the whole thing disappearing." She noticed the youngster taking interest. "The doors up here are pretty special. That one leads to a place called the Hammer Heart Arena. A training grounds we use to toughen ourselves up."

Leon gasped. "A training ground, you say?" Goofy and Donald gasped to an idea that took Sora a split second to realize. "Hey, this place could help our partners with experience."

Goofy chuckled. "I'd reckon since we need to get back to opening Registeels door, that might speed things up." Namine requested to a brilliant plan. "And we have access to a fast door way in and out of the place. That could help while everyone's away. Sora, Riku, Kairi, would you mind helping Terra show how things work in there? It could spend some time that would be wasted anyways." Sora was glad to do so and went to open it. "This place is fun, we can set up any scenario in there that we could learn about."

Leon hmmed. "Really? Then... would you mind if someone set up a little update? Battling tougher pokemon is expected." Terra didn't mind. "Just about anyone who knows what to do can input the data. Thought it might take time to learn how to arrange the fights." The youngster cracked his fingers as he and the crowd entered, leaving Namine to a mundane duty as they entered the gray, if glorious looking arena. With a giant heart statue on the other side and a screen. The Rotom Phone floated out of pocket in awe as Leon hurried to have a look at the computer. With a hand slot to press, figuring out how to insert the data was of an instinct. He placed his hand on it and focused the vast knowledge with in his heart. Of various pokemon, strategies and environments to use.

The screen showed what looked to be a pokeball and Leon went to work. "Orre's a strange region among most of the others. There isn't a whole lot of wild pokemon, so trainers aren't too common. Often they prepare themselves with a battle simulator, so they'll get up to speed on what to do as a trainer. Add in that they live and breath by the double battle format and they can pick up on some complex strategies. Let's just say these are going to take it up even further, since you're not just giving orders. I'll work up a few scenarios for testing and that will give his Majesty and the Guard something to throw themselves upon. Once they beat most of these, then I think Registeel shouldn't be much of a hassle. Just give a few."

Back at Traverse.

The three boys and Poppy were away from the Ranch and were at a route leading to the edge of the down town. Leading towards the long road to the outskirts but close by a building with a giant skull of lightning bolts. Right at the slope is a neon lit, four story Inn. Wanda held the door. "Here's the place. Trust me when I say, it looks better on the inside."

The boys looked up to read the name. The Eye Rester. They were allowed in and found the lobby of a rather laid back place. With some commoner knights, a mechanic that is apart of Wanda's forces, some Watch Dogs and even some beagle men making use before taking off. The lobby itself looks a bit like what is seen at Twilight Town, though some of the technological gizmos aren't anything seen before. The few that noticed, saw Wanda and Resira together, halting some of of the activities as they realize something is at stake. A Watch Dog serving as a receptionist woke up. "Mayor, Ma'am!" He hurried to a book. "Let's see, let's see." He saw. "A ha, we have reserves for this volunteer group." Wanda nodded and explained to the boys. "We've been preparing ever since Ienzo told me about what you've done to get by. Taking a whole mansion and made it your own is a rare luxury and a use of resources."

Resira second that. "Sometimes when you're out on patrol and you can't find a post, you improvise with what you can find." Roxas smiled proudly. "It was about time someone made something good out of that place. Even if there wasn't any running power, our friends were able to help us make due."

Wanda imagined elements of nature lending aid. "While this place is certainly no manor, it at least has that and then some. The expenses are already covered so you can have a proper rest." The Watchdog gave Roxas a room key with a number, as redundant as that is. It was at the third floor. The band hurried to an elevator and were ready to ascend. Resira spoke out, now that there wasn't anyone else hearing. "If it isn't too obvious, your first crucial assignment is to investigate some of the activities of this Lord Hater."

Roxas has a good idea with how Sora interacted with the technological lich. "He didn't come over to the worlds to make friends. I think he was trying to start a conquest across the worlds before Archaon happened and wrecked his ship."

Dupmic felt that made sense. "Hater helped us out because he knew he was going to die if the Everchosen was allowed to win. The only reason he isn't making trouble is because he doesn't have anywhere else to go while building that ship of his." Roxas agreed with that. "Once he has that ship made, he'll be right back to being an enemy."

Resira nodded. "Quite, witnesses have reported that as a past time, Hater likes to start up rock concerts as a way to vent out his frustrations and have the masses idolize him through... more conventional means."

Denryk had interest in hearing the music. "Because that will make him feel better and get him some more friends. I heard it gets people pumped up. Since there are pokemon who can help make good music, you're thinking he might have met some that would absolutely be on the roll with making a band."

Resira appreciated the observant mind. "Indeed, Denryk. If a captured pokemon eventually becomes loyal to their partners, that would mean that when Hater has the means, his forces will become that much more powerful."

Roxas imagined the disaster. "Enough that Wander and Sylvia won't be able to do much about it. So we need to make sure that doesn't happen or Hater gets the idea that the worlds aren't some playground for him."

Resira sighed and pat Roxas on the head. "That is more idealistic, but you understand that those like Hater won't ever let that ambition go." Poppy crossed her arms and laughed. "Fufufu! You think that, but let's just say me and my family know a gang of Numb Skulls that thought to cause trouble and end up doing much to help protect Alola."

Resira wasn't denying that possibility as Wanda admitted. "Maybe if we learn more about where Hater came from, we can see if we can't speed up the healing process that is occurring over there. If not, we just have to deal with a necessary evil. Much like why the Forces of Destruction; composing of the Orruks, Grots, Ogors and the dreaded Sons of Behemat are as likely to be a thorn on our side as they are likely to be an asset against the Forces of Chaos and the Forces of Death."

Roxas hmmed, shifted his eyes to Poppy and promised. "I think I know how we can stop him, what ever Wander does with him regularly is enough to annoy him. We need to find a common ground so maybe Hater will figure out that he can put those skills to better use."

Wanda felt that would be considerate. "Might be harder to pull off, just be careful about that. Most of Hater's outburst have been because of Wander not taking no for an answer." Ding! The door opened and the group went out, Denryk looked at the number and turned right to count. "31, 32, 33-" He saw a second door at a corridor and hurried. "Here it is, 35."

Roxas hurried to see it matched, opened the door and entered a three bed room apartment with a small kitchen, bathroom, a window that gives a view of downtown and various furniture to supply certain needs. It's not as spacious compared to the mansion they squatted in, but it's functional. Poppy hmmed. "It would do on a business trip."

The boy laughed to that, Roxas explained to the ladies. "Once Namine gets back, we'll focus on settling down before we go exploring. It's going to take a while to get use to all these changes." Wanda understood. "In general. If you can settle this dispute fast enough, then we can embark on that expedition. But that can be handled at any time."

Dupmic waved and suggest. "Roxas, how about Denryk and I get things set up while you go out and wait for her." Denryk envisioned that idea. "If you're late and it isn't for an obvious reason, set up a signal or something."

Roxas blushed, scratched the side of his head and blushed. "I will if something else happens." He gave the boys supplies to pack away and head out with the ladies, Poppy giving one more look before stepping out and closing the door. The group hurried out of the inn and Wanda summarized. "Alright, I think that covers enough. We'll be close by if a crisis breaks out, but you four and your pokemon will be on your own."

Resira promised rather heartily. "I'll meet up with my work force in regards to our... criminal. You won't have to worry about him or his master while we're on a watch." Swoop! Stalwing landed by and squawked, inviting the two ladies to get on and give a parting before taking off. Roxas phewed, sent out Ceruledge, Espeon and Umbreon, knowing they could use a change in scenery. "Come on guys, Namine should be done by now."

Poppy brought out a pokeball and had mischief in her face. "So, if Hater is making friends with a musical band, what can we do?" Roxas believed in that notion. "You have a pokemon that loves to make music as well?"

Poppy nodded. "Melokia is my starter. I haven't brought her out that often in public, due to the fact she's a water type pokemon who would have to crawl on the land. But she's got quite the voice. It's kind of a shame that Medy guy hasn't encountered this one pokemon to take as his own." Roxas found that a pity. "Not every pokemon is going to show up out of nowhere. But yeah, the dude is a hydromancer! He might be able to help us talk things out with Hater, if we can see what's going on."

Back at the Hammer Heart Arena.

Leon was at the final touches of a first wave. "All the complexities of a super computer, with countless battles stored in the data banks as a way to tutor those who wish to experiment."

Tap!

"Done." The computer played a particular melody and let the band have a look. There was a button show casing a pokeball. Kairi gave it a push and saw the ball let loose a puff of smoke, showing a Rotom that buzzed. "Greeting challenger and welcome to the Hammer Heart Stadium!"

BZZT!

He flew to the side and show cased a stack of various pokeballs with images of particular pokemon. Some are marked by a pokeball, others by great balls and a select few, ultra balls. "To get you started, in here you and your pokemon can partake in our selection of challenges that would match the kind of mayhem you're in for. If you can beat the challenge in store, you'll be in for some quick experience. Just go for the pokeballs if you want to get started, if you're feeling like you can handle some risk, try for the challenges marked by the higher balls."

Leon added in. "Right now it maxes out at the Ultra Ball. I don't think you guys are quite ready to face something befitting of the Master Ball." Sora asked. "A Master Ball? Is it some special ball that only a few trainers can get?"

The youngster appreciated the accurate guess. "Quite special. Once it taps on any pokemon, it will be captured without fail. It's reserved for emergencies or for one of a kind pokemon that you'll only have a once in a life time chance of capturing. Those of Legends like Necrozma, Zygarde and even greater."

Kairi had a look at the pokeball rank, from a Plusle and Minun team up. To a Porygon2 that is partnered with an Slowbro. "Plus a Helping Hand, Minus the draw back? The Trick of the Slow bros?" She scrolled to the ultra ball rank, showing a lazy Slaking that has a Swoobat perching upside down. "Simple Swap?" Terra heard the name and asked. "Are all of these a hint or something?"

Leon nodded. "There's a tad more if you press a challenge. If you know pokemon in and out, they'll be very obvious. It's up to you to figure out how you're going to overcome the gimmick with the pokemon you have." He pressed a hand to his face and gave a sly smirk. "Anyone dare to take the challenge?"

The group looked over to Terra, who was wanting to give it a go. "I think there's time for one of these. You guys watch, while me; Primeape and Ursaring handle this." The band hurried as Leon realized Terra was about to pick the Slaking Challenge. The boy bit his lip, this could be humbling. The audience picked one side to see as Terra sent out the eager Ursaring and a hot blooded Primeape. "Growl!" (What's the big task this time?) She notice she's in a stadium as Primeape woahed. (Some challenge.) Terra warned the two. "As soon as I turn this on, we're going to be in for a play fight. Get ready." He read the tip. "Tip: Stop that Swoobat and attack every off turn."

Blip!

At the command, the heart statue channeled an ultra ball that was giving a series of shakes.

The band hurried to get ready as the ultra ball popped open and cause the arena to transform into a jungle under the cover of night. Laying to his side, caring less about the challenger, was a Slaking that was picking his nose. A brown fur gorilla with his exposed skin being lighter, his mane was white, his nose looked akin to that of a pigs. Hanging upside down with some energy was a blue bat with a body of lighter color fluff, black wings, a heart shape nose, a heart shape tail and a carefree smile. "Swoo!"

He dived down and flew by the right Slaking that grunted and burst into crystal, terestalizing into a purple hue with a medal showing the image of a ghost. Primeape jumped. (What the? He went Tera Ghost?) Ursaring grunted. (Looks like it, this won't be easy.) Terra analyzed the lazy looking Slaking and directed to the fast looking bat. "Primeape, focus an ice punch on Swoobat, Ursaring will cover with a facade."

The Swoobat hummed, flapped to the tree. He glowed and tossed an orb of energy at the Slaking, before taking an orb back and yawning in a truant. Primeape and Ursaring hurried right as the Slaking gave Terra a condescending look and leaped after him for a swift body slam. The grown up was surprised and glided left, Primeape realized what happened, punched Swoobat across and let Ursaring knock the bat to a tree, taking it out of the match as Slaking turned to his opposing ape and burst in spectral power. He rushed with a paw extending dark claws and slashed at Primeape, sending him rolling. The Primeape cursed. (Arrgh! That Swoobat swapped out Truant for any other ability!)

Terra gave Primeape a fast heal. "Ursaring, use those eyes to soften that damage. This is our chance!" The Ursaring took a burn and was more than eager to show a set of uncanny eyes and demoralize the Slaking completely. (Least it is now!)

Primape counted that moment as Primeape sprinted for an ice punch to the Slaking's face. The Slaking bulked himself up and fortified his physic before countering the Primeape with a body slam, leaving him paralyzed. Terra cringed. "Come on, don't give up. Ursaring, follow with thunder punch and we might control the speed." Ursaring sprinted for a swift electrical punch as the Slaking countered her with a super effective body press. Primeape was struggling to move as Slaking sprinted after him and gave a shadow claw upper cut. Primeape was sent in a roll and mustered the nerve to punch in frost. Ursaring gave a sight of baby doll eyes as Terra gave Primeape a heal, the Slaking bulked himself up and shrugged off the next ice punch. Slaking body slammed Primeape once more and sprinted after Ursaring to deliver a body press knock out. The Primeape stood up at the edge of his temper and clenched a fist as Terra gave one more heal. "Sheesh! Primeape, we're so close!"

The ape agreed as Slaking turned to Primeape and leaped for a body press tackle, sending the monkey in a roll. Primeape leaped for an ice punch that froze the Slaking in place and he shrieked. (Finally! We're not about to loose to you, ya lazy slob!) His fist glowed dark blue as he yelled out and delivered a fist to the Slaking's face, shoving the great ape several feet in a spectral after effect while shattering the crystal in one blow.

Slaking rolled in his icy bindings as Terra was left without words, Primeape went for the apes feet and delivered a low kick trip, knocking the giant down and ending in victory. Ursaring was getting up as her simulated wounds faded away like a dream as Primape howled and jumped, the two looked to the ultra ball that sparkled in streamers and brought about fanfare. The bear clapped and laughed. (Hah! That showed them!) Primeape agreed and laughed with her. (That baby doll gig wasn't too bad, even with that body press!) He turned to Terra. (That quick healing kept me up to get him, you're pretty smart sensei!)

Terra felt the joy strike a nerve. "Primeape?! What was that?!" The sudden shout surprised the two as Leon climbed over the ledge and tried to keep the outburst under control, Kilokilo was let out some time ago and controlled the fall.

The boy called out. "Hey, hey, hey!" He approached as Terra's voice turned harsh. "Do you know about this?!" The youngster sighed. "I was expecting this move to come up soon, but not this soon. All that fighting must have gave Primeape the experience he needed to learn a move exclusive to him and his evolution. Rage Fist."

Terra gasped. "Rage Fist?" The watching Guardians knew that move's name means something dark and Riku jumped down. Leon took a deep breath and exhaled. "It's a ghost type move, the more often Primeape is hit with something, the stronger the move becomes. From barely over a false swipe to reaching the power of a giga impact in just two hits. Primeapes are often so frail that they can't take much at once, but the same can't be said for the evolution."

Riku asked. "You're going to want us to see this evolution that your hiding?" Leon made no effort to deny he was keeping that a surprise. "If you wish. This is a step in evolution found in Paldea. Often when a Primeape gets mad, their blood pressure sky rockets and sometimes it causes an aneurysm to their brains if it goes unchecked, can be fatal. Unless a trainer learns to keep Primeape calm under most circumstances. Rage fist is a way for a Primeape to learn about controlling that anger. Once they do, instead of suffering that aneurysm, they become something else. Adopting a ghost type to goes along with the fighting."

Riku was taking a look as Terra thought about it and knew the youngster simply wanted him to be surprised. "I'll see that, myself. Someone who is angry, all the time because that's in their nature, has found a way to actually control it instead of letting it get the better of him?"

Leon nodded and showed a face of lingering anger. "Yes. Some of that anger can be better spent at the appropriate moment. If some one with the heart of a monster has hurt or tried to hurt someone you care about in ways... you didn't think are possible, you don't just put a stop to them, you make an example out of them so not only will they never hurt another again, but so everyone else will wise up. By the Tapus, the Sun and the Moon, there are people who deserve to be throttled for the evil they sow."

Terra was thinking about the demon that's causing the shadow outbreaks, Bill and his chaos, as well as Braig, who's orchestrated misery and woe for decades. Leon whispered. "You let that anger out, so you can punish those monsters." Kilokilo caught up with the boy and used a tentacle hair to rub him on the shoulder as Riku nearly dropped his mouth and looked over to a Primeape that was disturbed by Leon's speech. The youngster thought of a particular example. "Primeape, thought to make use of his frustration over a ghost type Slaking that had truant, the ability I laid the hint about, swapped out. Because there isn't a whole lot those two could do against that. With that, he punched through the Slakings shenanigans and turned that battle around in your favor."

Terra agreed with that and kept a firm stance. "Yeah, but that was something he used as an impulse, not because I approved of it." The Primeape pouted as Leon agreed with the trainer. "That's true. But, with what is out there, rage fist is still a move I'd recommend keeping around for emergencies, at the least. Primeape is pretty good at controlling that anger thanks to you and your friends, so you don't have to go through with evolving him if all of this is a deal breaker."

Terra sighed with his self disappointment. "It's just that, trying to use that power in the way I saw was what got me in a decade long bind in my own heart. I'm not going back to letting the darkness control me, and seeing a friend go down that path is the last thing I want to see."

Leon stepped back calmly and let Terra think about his error, he asked out loud. "But, that happened because someone was telling me to use the dark power, rather than teaching me how to really use it. The way you said it sounds like it would come naturally."

Riku agreed to that. "And then that darkness starts to evolve." Terra thought of two people who were able to accomplish such a feat, he calmed down, dismiss his blade and went over to his partners. He gave the two a petting and asked. I think next time, we'll read what the challenge is saying before we do it." The Ursaring grunted as Primeape spaced out.

As the grown up had his back turn, Riku took the chance to show Leon a picture in the Dex. One of a dark ape, resembling Primeape. It has ghastly, light gray hair, dark gray limbs, red eyes, pulsing veins and a broken bracer. A rather horrifying image. Leon whispered quickly. "I really didn't expect Primeape to learn that move so soon. Even with all the fighting."

The older boy knew that was truth. "Yeah. But you didn't just say all that because you raised pokemon like Primeape. You had that bottled up when you had to deal with pure evil for the first time in your lives. You love these guys that much that the thought of hurting them like that would set you off." Leon nodded. "Yeah. My Daddy made it very clear, that if it becomes too much, we go to him and Mommy. Having a second voice to guide you through it is better than letting it stew out of control."

Riku looked over to an approaching Kairi and Sora, along with the King and his guard. "It's always when someone else gets hurt, that it goes loose."

Click!

The door opened and Namine came in with the Star Shard. "Alright, the inner gate is all safe for the moment. Nothing gets in and nothing gets out." Kairi was thinking about what she saw. "Nice, this arena is all set for Mickey and his crew. All we got to do is head back to the town and get this project started." She asked the youngster. "Leon, are there anymore pokemon that evolve like that?"

Leon answered in earnest. "If you mean by using a move a certain amount of times, then yeah. Cubone can evolve into an Alolan Marowak and have an entirely new type combination. While Pancham evolves from a fighting type to a fighting dark type like Pangoro, due to him hanging out with the rougher crowd. There's also white strip water type, Basculine, that becomes part ghost after taking enough recoil without knocking itself out. And of course, Dartrix evolves into Decidueye and loses the flying type for ghost. There's a reason behind them that can be studied upon." Sora was thinking more into what Quill's going to be in for as he went to the door. "This is a lot of homework."

At the Ranch.

Poppy was watching the Nido herd play around with a Growlithe and a Drampa as she listened to what Roxas had to say. The boy was blushing. "So that's how we ended up going steady." The youngster was quite charmed. "In a way, you and Namine evolved from what you are and became a sync. You're worried that Denryk was forced to partake in that evolution far too soon?"

Roxas nodded. "I think that was why he was wanting to keep hidden from it all. Putting up that mask when he's showing the cracks. He cares about people and what ever he was doing has led him to a date with another friend." Poppy wondered. "What gave that away?"

Roxas had a list and settled for a more subtle one. "You know he's keeping that Pineco around because he has self destruct as a move. He's a literal grenade. But he hasn't gone through the order to use that move." Poppy nodded. "It would knock Pineco out as well and with the kind of dangers around here, that would leave him exposed and we'll be having a word with anyone who puts a pokemon into that kind of danger."

Roxas thought about it. "It could be a case in that it's a last resort, you never know." Poppy was left imagining. "So, Namine can alter memories that fluently? How far can that power extend, if I dare ask?" Roxas was looking more red. "The dudes weren't exaggerating in the slightest. We've dived into dreams a few times and in there, she's got the power to do more because of what can make it's way in there. Out here though, it's kind of limited but she's makes up for that by being a genius. Although, if she's given a catalyst, she can go beyond ideas."

"Good idea, it isn't fair to make you boys do all the fighting."

The guard of Espeon, Umbreon and Ceruledge turned around to find Namine and the band return. Kairi had a Star Shard in her hand and thought out loud. "Most of the time, we think about the element, aim and fire. But it can't just be anything that would channel it out." Leon hmmed as Namine found that helpful. "Even though the pyromancers from the World of Ashes have found ways through their own bodies."

Mickey asked Sora's other. "Did you fellas let Wanda know about what's been going on?" Roxas added a bonus. "Yeah and Resira knows too, in case Xig tries something, we should be alright." The King wasn't that surprised, given Resira's war carrier is explicit about flushing out the followers of Chaos. The other reported more. "She and Wanda set us up with a base close by where we ought to go. We're thinking about how we can keep Hater from being a problem because if he meets pokemon that ends up liking him, that's more power he can use."

Mickey tapped his foot. "Gosh, that might be tough. He's an overlord who would terrorize the worlds if he's ever given the chance and when he gets supported by his friends, he gets stronger when it matters." Riku balanced out the two quirks. "He's two opposite things that have never gone together until we met him. Is he going to listen if we ask about what is going on?"

Poppy laughed to that. "No, no. He'd toss balls at those pokemon when he realizes that is all he needs. But maybe that won't be a bad thing." She asked Roxas and Namine. "Figure how to make that happen and the worlds would take an easy breath."

The boy nodded as the witch yawned and stretched. "We'll plan it over with the guys, they should be done setting up the room by now." Espeon meowed a goodbye to the pokemon at the ranch as Umbeon wagged his tail and barked. Kairi promised. "We'll let you know when we're about to take off, take it easy while we finish setting up."

Glimmer!

The band notice a shine of green light and Donald turned around to find a moment most surprising. Leon was glowing his hands green and channeled a cloud of pollen to shape into a butterfly. The mage quacked in shock and startled the youngster to where the pollen cloud dispersed and brought the youngster into a sneezing fit. Leon rubbed his nose as Poppy was impressed. "So it is possible? Do you need me to get a towel?"

Leon sneezed heartily and breathed. "I'm good, I'm good now. If I think about the type and the supplies close by, I think I can cast something. Pollen puff is a very handy bug move, you know." Donald was left impressed. "Not bad." Sora was disappointed. "Just don't spook him when he tries that, looked like he was doing something cool with it." That warranted a laugh as Roxas offered Namine a hand. "We'll see you soon."

The duo and their partners kept steady and headed to the down town route. Namine spoke out what happened. "Besides that, Leon set up something for our friends to use and Terra gave it a test. Primeape apparently learned a move that is crucial for his evolution. But the catch is that it's a ghost move that draws power from rage."

Roxas sighed in sync to Ceruledge, the knight guessed. (I think we know where that went.) Namine admitted. "That kind of power has never done anyone any favors in the long run. But with you guys, it's part of nature and adapting. More of a reason for Primeape to prove us wrong. Sometimes you got to know how that works."

Roxas know of a particular member of the squad. "Denryk could use the info. What ever he's getting into has got to run on more." The Eye Rester was in sight and the boy called the escort back. "I'll let you guys out once we're inside." Pew!

The duo headed in, went up the elevator and headed to a room that was oddly quiet, save for some talking.

Click!

They entered to find Denryk at a desk, with a pencil and paper, while Dupmic was approving of an idea and criticizing. "This could work but that chelicerae might require some precision. We're going to need a few wooden blocks, some measuring tape and maybe find a pro who can make that mask." Denryk recalled. "There's some wood carvers that are turning that spot of the town square into a market for hire. We show the idea, the design and get the goods they need, they'll show us the steps we'll need to make the shape. Then I can get to the fun part of painting it and bringing it to life."

Scraggy, Waltza and a laughing Schemy looked to each other in approval as Namine asked. "Are you setting out to get that mask made?" Denryk turned around to see his superiors and showed a rather well made drawing of what looked to be the face of a wolf spider. With two great eyes over a lower set of four. "I like spiders and it gives enough of a scare that no one would suspect a thing. I did promise Ogerpon that I would do something really stupid to let her know it's me. A heads up, she has a bit of trouble from in her words, these four jerks that are wanting her shining masks. Four masks that might have some tera crystals used to make them. So, you're thinking what I'm thinking?"

Roxas guessed. "Four bandits that are wanting that power for themselves? Someone working behind the scenes could help us if we run into trouble out in the wilderness. If we keep quiet, not many people would realize that someone is you. You're going to need a full costume switch too."

Denryk smiled wide. "That might be a plan because this would give it away. Coincidentally there's some tailors who can make the goods. Do you guys want to join in on the fun?"

Namine waved a hand. "We're going to need the expedition to know we're there. But maybe we can try that out if we get a festival going." Denryk snickered in mischief. "Other than that, the clothes are packed in the drawers and the cleaning stuff are in the kitchen and bathroom. Place is big enough to work but we'll have to practice out there."

Roxas had a double inspection as Namine pressed her hands together. "Very good, bro! Dupmic, if you're going to be stuck with us for a while, then you know who you're going to have to inform." The replica understood. "Yeah, Oswald will get it when he knows what's been going on." He realized something as Denryk got defensive. "Hey, hey! Don't go calling me bro, we're not actually-" He blushed. "You know what... fine, you're the smartest one here to get the privilege. Just don't expect me to return that."

Namine giggled as Roxas blew in sarcasm. "Sure you won't." He closed the drawer, let out the siblings and brought out Ninjask and Shedinja. The cicada back flipped in joy and was zipping around to see the strange nest he's in as Shedinja floated to a dark corner of a ceiling and posed as something like a charm. (Sneaking in the shadows.) Ninjask buzzed. (And zipping through the town.)

Roxas went to lay on a bed and had the Espeon and Umbreon curl with him. "We did good today, we did good." Denryk helped himself to the sofa with Scraggy as Waltza flew to have a look out the window with the Murkrow. The gray eyes remembered. "Hey, there's one other thing Ogerpon talked about. She made friends with some dragon type up in the mountain. Those weird pokemon the guys are seeing in the Labyrinth... the ones who can crawl out if they want too?"

Namine flinched. "The Roaring Moon that the guys beaten up before it disappeared?" She imagined. "Could be, there's also a lot of dragon types who can fly. Any that would make that mountain into a home if left alone." Dupmic guessed. "Like Noivern? Or Altaria?" Denryk puffed his cheeks. "I'm getting a feeling that if we run into anything big, it's going to be over there. Can't be too careful when thinking ahead."

Namine heeded the wisdom and let out Arty and the Smoliv while preparing a drawing, having an idea and giving a light smile. "A considerate thought, bro." Denryk tried to ignore the last word and took a deep breath before resting in a zen, letting distinct feelings of pride and good will blow into his psyche.