The sun was beginning to set in the distance, filling the room with a bright orange glow that came from the large window. Before the window sat Alakazam, who was currently reading a very old-looking book. The book contained the writings of an archaeologist of old: Professor Camerupt, an expert on history. Though dated, his research had made several pathways for modern explorers that otherwise might never have been located. He was also, in his time, the leading expert on the subject of Giratina... which was exactly why Alakazam had been getting every novel, journal, and footnote written by Professor Camerupt that he could get his hands on. Information on such ancient subjects was hard to come by, and although most stories of that ancient battle are simply myth and legend, Alakazam chose to believe that there was some kernel of truth hidden within the stories. A truth that would probably be very important in the near future, if his theory was correct.

---

Sylveon sat dutifully outside the Guildmaster's office, looking over the two new recruits with a critical eye. One was a Breloom, who was currently bouncing up and down in place. The other, quite the opposite, was a Quilava, and looked like he might just as soon slink into the shadows as stand and fight. Still, she'd learned a long time ago not to judge a future Explorer by their first day. She herself had been a very timid and low-level Eevee only a few years ago, and would never have believed she'd one day make it to the position of a Guildmaster's assistant. Yet here she was, so it was only fair that these two have the same chance that she did.

"Alright, everyone! Front and center!" she called. Though the ceremony was for the two in front of her, the Guildmaster liked to have all the members (limited in number though they may be) present for these kinds of ceremonies. Zephyr and Growy were both there, though they would not actually be taking part in the ceremony themselves. Once everyone was in place, she lifted a paw and motioned toward the door. "The Guildmaster will now speak." Everyone's attention turned toward the doors as they waited for the Guildmaster to reveal himself.

And waited.

And waited.

Sylveon glanced at the door, which still showed no signs of opening. She knocked on the door. "Guildmaster, it's time."

---

There was something else, though; something nagging at the back of his mind. Was he forgetting something? What was it...? A knock at his door. "Guildmaster, it's time." Yes, there is definitely something I am forgetting... But what? he thought to himself. He telekinetically pulled several books from his bookshelves, which took up the walls near the window, and began quickly scanning through them. Perhaps some fact or date had eluded him, and his subconscious was insisting that his picture of the situation was incomplete. Another knock. "Guildmaster?" He ignored it. He had to find what was missing. Suddenly, a loud bang of a knock came echoing through the room. "GUILDMASTER!!!"

"Ah! What? What? What is it, Sylveon?" he called out.

"You're supposed to be giving a speech, Guildmaster! It's time for the initiation ceremony!"

Alakazam was silent for a moment. "Ceremony...?" He slapped his forehead. "OF COURSE!" he shouted. That's what he had forgotten! The ceremony was today! "Yes, I'm coming! I'll be right out!" he called. Quickly, he marked his place in several of the books and sent them back to their bookshelves. Then he quickly headed for the doors and pushed them both open.

---

"GUILDMASTER!!!" Sylveon shouted, this time kicking the door with both her back feet.

"Ah! What? What? What is it, Sylveon?" he called out.

"You're supposed to be giving a speech, Guildmaster! It's time for the initiation ceremony!" she answered, clearly angry that he had - once again - forgotten something so important. She listened, but heard only silence. Had he heard her? She was about to simply throw open the doors and drag him out.

"OF COURSE!" came a sudden shout from the other side of the door. Sylveon sighed; he really had forgotten. "Yes, I'm coming! I'll be right out!" he called. Shaking her head, Sylveon stepped away from the door and resumed her post. After a moment, the doors opened wide, revealing Guildmaster Alakazam. Sylveon raised her paw towards him.

"And now, young recruits, the Guildmaster shall make a speech welcoming you to our Guild."

Zephyr stood to the side of the two new recruits. He had his paws clasped behind his back, and his eyes were closed as he sensed the aura of those around him. He was acting as the guild's security system while everyone was distracted by the ceremony taking place. He had learned a long time ago to never let your guard down, even in a place that seems safe. None of the auras outside the guild were hostile or unfamiliar. They belonged to the residents of Poplus going about their days before the sky turned completely dark. Or exploration teams who set up base nearby. But still he would keep an eye out, it wasn't in his nature to just assume everything was okay. He half listened to the conversation between the Guildmaster and Sylveon, but most of his attention was on the outside.

He was not the oldest member of the guild, he had seen Pokemon who had been here longer than himself leave the safety of the guild and become their own exploration team. He was not the strongest, those members who had left most certainly were. But his loyalty was unquestioned. He would kill or be killed for Alakazam or any other member of the guild, he had already proven that. Though he could have left by now as full fledged explorer, he had chosen to stay. Because he had pledged his loyalty to Alakazam already, and that wasn't something he was ever going to break. Even if their ideals clashed every once in a while.

Zephyr opened his eyes only for a moment to get a glance the recruits. They seemed to be polar opposites from a first look. He remembered how nervous he had been on his first day, even with all the fighting experience he had beforehand. Fighting for a cause put much more pressure on you than fighting for sake of getting stronger. He wondered what kind of speech the Guildmaster would give this time. It always seemed to depend on the recruits what he would say. Or at the very least his mood. Zephyr closed his eyes once more as Alakazam entered the room, focusing back on the outside.

Clarity was soaring through the air like she loved. The night was nice and dark; a calm and relaxing moon shone in the distance. This was where a noivern was at home. Everything was perfectly in order... until she felt something rustle in her ears. She stopped in midair and lifted her considerably large ears up, listening for a disturbance. It sounded like a roar. It was getting closer. But despite her excellent hearing, she couldn't tell where the noise was coming from. She flew as fast as she could; Noivern were some of the fastest dragons around. But it still got closer. Steadily.. ever more steadily. She darted into a cloud in an attempt to hide herself, but that turned out to be a mistake. Suddenly she could spot an orange light piercing the clouds, and bright red eyes. She heard the roar one last time before she-

===================

Clarity jolted awake and immediately fired a dragon breath. The stone that made contact with her blue flame began to turn bright and orange from the heat. She didn't stop until her lungs forced her to stop. She curled up into a ball by covering her body in her considerably large wings. She was hanging upside down within a dark cavern.. if you didn't know better you would swear she was a ceiling ornament. Some more muffled whimpers could be heard before she growled in rage and fired another dragon breath. She was very frustrated with herself. She was a baby! A wimp! What kind of dragon has little hatch-ling nightmares like this!? Her despair quickly turned into frustrated anger, and anger that could only be interrupted by the grumbling of her stomach. She smacked herself in the face with her wings a few times and made her first rational decision since getting up. She needed to get out and get something to eat. She unhooked herself from the ceiling with her claws and soared towards the cave entrance.

She stuck her head outside and was met immediately with a blinding bright light. With a deep throaty growl she did the best she could at ignoring the obnoxious light and leaped out of her cavern. Her eyes and ears were perked as she soared over the forest. The town was further south, and while she was sure they had food she didn't feel comfortable asking for it. She could hunt for it, but she doubted that she'd find anything fulfilling even if she could bring herself to eat another pokemon. I guess that left Clarity with only one choice.. berries for breakfast today. And supper. And dinner. She hated the thought. Clair continued her search, doing her best to keep low and not draw too much attention to herself.

The Quilava was understandably nervous for plenty of reasons. Being a trainee on the verge of becoming a new recruit for the Alakazam Explorer's Guild was certainly one aspect. The other was the pressure and fear of being issues missions that he might somehow fail at, even if he did enter the Guild without a hitch. And then there was one of Helios's personal thoughts, that the Sylveon he had been taking orders from for the past while seemed a bit too... forceful? Drilling? It just didn't seem natural for a Sylveon to be like that, Helios thought. But that was for himself, and nobody else.

The other trainee Heli had been with, meanwhile, did seem to have any care in the world, and was bounding up and down like the floor was red-hot. The Quilava only wished that he could have that kind of enthusiasm, even if only at certain times. He was oh-so painfully shy, though; it had taken nearly all his courage just to apply for the Guild in the first place. But as long as Heli had gotten this far, he couldn't stop now.

There was a few moments of awkward, bated silence as the group gathered for the ceremony waited for someone: Alakazam, whom Sylveon claimed was going to deliver a speech. Despite expecting it as soon as it was announced, there was obviously a bit of confusion and a hint of annoyance at how delayed the elder seemed to be. She called out several more times in increasing volume, before finally her shouts and banging at the door caught the attention of the Alakazam. Helios was certain at least one person snickered at the situation.

Today was the welcoming ceremony, Growy had spend over 3 hours to make sure he looked perfect. But he did had a dilemma. Which pose he should be standing on it. He wondered the just cool one or the one with friendly smirk.
Sadly time passed way to fast for the grovyle to make a decision. Sylveon voice distracting him calling for them to come and he sweat dropped. He will switch around or at least attempt to not make the new members think he is a idiot. Or worst of all to think he was lacking in his appearance.

He stood beside Zephyr with his arms crossed over his chest. He looked over the two recruits, that brought back memories. He was so determinedly and angry when he said to take him in slamming his hand on the desk to whine and blow it as it hurt. Stupid desk for being hard. Actually now that he was remembering it...he didnt want to remember the embarrassment from back then. Not beautiful or elegant at all. A small sigh escaped him as the wait just continued.
'' I wonder if he fall asleep again.'' He said to himself switching to a friendly smile towards the recruits as the guild assistant was attempting to get the guild master to get out and give the speech. In the end it did, he chuckled to himself for a bit, he liked the lively atmosphere.
Watching the guild master come out he pushed his chest out, giving a gently shake with his head to ensure he looks at his best and most impressive. Hoping the speech just dont end up lasting forever if he comes to explain and shareing his own explorer experiences.

Henry bounced in place, with a huge smile on his face. It was his first day as a member of Alakazam's explorer's guild, and he just couldn't wait to get started. The whole prospect was so exciting. Going on missions, fighting bad guys, exploring new places; it was miles ahead of life back home. All anybody there seemed to care about there was tending to their flowers. Henry liked flowers and plants as much as any other Grass type, but there was only so much gardening he could take before that got old. Maybe it was the part of him that was Fighting typed that made him crave adventure.

The other newbie along with him, was a Quilava who seemed quite nervous about this whole experience, judging by his body language. That was understandable, for some Pokémon, trying something new was a nerve wracking experience, but for Henry, new experiences were something he embraced. Now if only they would hurry up and get this show on the road. All the Guildmaster seemed to be doing was levitating there, seemingly lost in thought. His Sylveon companion had to yell at the other Pokémon several times before she finally got his attention, and they still hadn't done anything yet...

Henry was starting to get a little tired of waiting, so he decided to make a little conversation with the other new recruit to make the time pass a little quicker. The other guy was clearly nervous, and maybe having someone to talk to would calm him down a bit. "Don't worry buddy! everything is gonna be OK! Ya don't need to be scared!" He then proceeded to give the Quilava a hug. Unlike some of the other Grass types in his village, he didn't have any sort of trust issues when it came to talking to Fire types. The possibility that this Pokémon could burn him had not crossed his mind. After the Breloom let go, he continued speaking. "Wow, can you believe it?! We're actually going to join an Exploration Team! This is so exciting! Have you ever been this excited?! I've never been this excited! I can't wait to get this adventure started!" The Grass type Pokémon started bouncing faster, and threw one of his arms into the air as he spoke.

Alakazam stood, giving the two young recruits before him an appraising look. Both were definitely inexperienced, but he could tell they had a lot of heart, and that's what was most important in his eyes. Let's see... Sylveon had told him their names earlier... Ah, yes, Henry the Breloom and Helios the Quilava, if I'm not mistaken. Alakazam gave a nod to Zephyr and Growy, then cleared his throat.

"Welcome, young recruits. I, as you are no doubt aware, am Alakazam, Master of this guild and veteran explorer. Sylveon, my assistant, I'm sure you've already met, and beside you stand Zephyr and Growy, our two senior members. Together, we form what is known as the Alakazam Explorer's Guild." As Alakazam looked at the two of them, sudden memories of himself and his best friend applying to join Master Machamp's old guild came rushing back, causing him to smile. "A guild, you see, is much more than a simple meeting place. It is much more than some Pokemon working together toward a common goal. A guild is like a family; you begin as mere guildmates, but in time, those around you become like family to you. We stand beside each other, just as you are doing now. We work together, live together, laugh together, cry together, and most of all, we grow together. We stand beside each other through thick and thin, and together, we overcome any obstacle that stands in our way. Remember this, and I assure you, not a day will pass that you feel alone.

"As for your work here at the guild, always... remember to... ahh... zzz... Zzz..." He had fallen asleep, right in the middle of his speech. Sylveon sighed and calmly walked over to him, then hopped up and slapped him across the face. "Zzsnort-AH! Ah, yes, always remember to have fun," he continued, completely undeterred. Sylveon merely shook her head and walked back to her post. "Exploration is a passion, something wonderful to pursue. Just imagine:" he said, his eyes beginning to shine with excitement, "new places, ancient history, treasures awaiting the daring... How exciting! The adventures you will soon experience will be like nothing you've ever done before! So go forth, Henry the Breloom! Go forth, Helios the Quilava! Go forth and discover what this world has to offer you, as the newest members of the Alakazam Explorers Guild!" He smiled; he wasn't normally one to boast, but his speech had stoked his old fires for exploration; now might be an excellent time to head out himself. "Sylveon, please brief them on the day-to-day tasks of the guild," he said. With a final bow, he returned to his office, slowly closing the door behind him. Items of many shapes and sizes began flying around the room and into an old bag; Alakazam was going out.

---

"...And that was our Guildmaster," Sylveon said proudly. "Now, Zephyr, Growy, you are both aware of the rules, so you may leave now if you wish, or you may greet the new recruits. As for you two, listen up." She pointed to a large bulletin board on the far wall. It was divided by a small red line into two sections, and both had several pieces of paper stuck to them. "Over there, you'll find the Job Board. There are two types of jobs: General and Bounty. General Jobs are simple and usually vary: search and rescue, item retrieval, escort missions, and so on. Basically, they're various odd jobs of differing difficulties. You're free to take any of them, but be warned: if you take something that's too hard for you, you will get hurt, so be careful. On the other side is the Bounty Board. It's a sad fact of life that some Pokemon simply have no interest in being nice to their fellow Pokemon. When they get mean enough, a bounty gets posted for them, and anyone who can capture them will get the listed reward from Chief Aggron. Like the other jobs, each criminal is listed under a certain rank of difficulty, so be careful who you pick; some are just nuisances, but some are really dangerous. You're responsible for your own actions when it comes to doing jobs.

"Now, these are the rules of the guild:
1) Work hard, and no slacking.
2) Always be respectful - you're representing our guild!
3) Always be willing to lend a hand.
4) The guild takes 90% of all reward money. No negotiations; you get the job through us, so we get the most of it. And
5) Always try your hardest.

Remember these rules, and you'll do fine. And finally," she said, pulling two small badges from a small bag on her back, "here are your badges. Wear them proudly; you are now full members of the Alakazam Explorer's Guild." She handed one to each of the recruits. "And that's that," she said with a nod. "I'll be here if you have any questions. Otherwise, you're free to go."

Clarity ducked and weaved between treetops, keeping her eyes open for a meal. Her stomach growled in protest once again, and Clarity decided she'd growl back.
I'm working on it! She mentally berated her stomach as she tilted her wings upward to dodge a tree top. She kept searching, growing ever more annoyed and desperate to find SOMETHING until she spotted a single bright red and delicious apple on a tree just outside of her vision range. That was her apple. She wanted that apple and it was hers. She grew a look of determination and she picked up speed, parting leaves in her way with the sheer force of the wind she was putting off. Caterpie, Pidgys and other tree dwellers protested as she disturbed their nests.
Mine mine mine mine mine...!

============================

A Raticate scuttles around the forests floor, his nose twitching as his powerful sense of smell leads him to food. He was storing up food for his family; he already had quite a lot, but you never know when one of his tykes was going to want to eat. Suddenly a bright red apple grabbed his attention. It was the largest, most plump apple he had ever seen! He scuttled up the tree using his sharp claws. It took him a while to ascend such a large tree, but he eventually reached the top and cut the apple off the stem with a single bit of his razor sharp fangs. He held the apple high in the air triumphantly... until his ears twitched from the sound of a the shaking of trees and the annoyed chirping of birds. He didn't have time to react before a black blur was upon him.

============================

"YOINK!" Clair called as she used her hind legs to pluck it out of the raticate's hands. She landed on the forest floor and bit the apple in half with a single bite, thankful for it's tastiness. To say the raticate was furious would be an understatement. Clarity paid his complaints no attention at all as she chewed on her meal. Suddenly the raticate did a loud shout, and Clairity's ears perked straight up as she heard the rustling of grass. Dozens of Ratata formed a circle around her as the Raticate leaped from the tree and landed in front of her, blocking the clearing out of the tree canopy. She gulped down the piece of apple in her mouth fearfully.

Clair took off into the deeper thicket of the forest with half an apple sticking out of her mouth as a pack of ratata being lead by the raticate was right on her tail. Normally she'd be faster, but there were too many trees. One Ratata nipped her tail, but she quickly shook him it off. The forest was in a complete uproar; Bird pokemon flew from the trees in a panic. Well, so much for being undetected. She reckoned pokemon from miles around could sense the commotion.

Growy when introduced flashed a confident grin at them. The one he trained on his mirror image for a while, to bring it to the perfection. Standing still, holding his pose on occasionally glancing at the two new recruits, as the guild master spoke. He did sound inspirational. But ti didnt pass with out the Alakazam falling asleep at least once. Well at least the recruits are getting to know the family better.

He patiently waited for Sylveon to explain the rulers. He walked up to them. Planning on introducing himself, and getting them to know a bit better.
He made a bow in front of them before standing to his full height. '' Hello you two, welcome again to our guild. I am Growy~ I am not really a Grovyle for solo missions. So if you ever want a teammate for it. Feel free to invite me.''
There was some racket outside but he didnt mind it. As long as nothing gets him dirty or insult him, he wouldnt involve himself in fight. So need to actually look outside just to see whats going on, its a different story if it crash inside the guild or pose some real danger. But if it was so, Zephyr would already be telling them to get ready for a fight. So Growy didnt worry himself with it, Focusing at the two new recruits.
'' So what do you like to do beside exploring?''

Helios remained quiet and still throughout the whole ceremony, even as the guildmaster fell asleep right midway through his speech. Beyond a huff of annoyance and a cross slap to the opposing face, however, Sylveon was not deterred, and apparently neither was the Alakazam. Otherwise, the speech went what might be considered successful. The guildmaster talked at short length of what wonders the world held for them to explore and brave as a guild, as a family, and something sparked a bit in Helios.

His only family before had been one that pushed him. It wasn't primarily because they wanted to, though; it was a natural need for Pokemon to evolve, only capable if they had the physical and mental power required to do so. If Heli never evolved even once, he would be inadequate in almost every way. He would be able to properly grow up and spread his influence and genes as nature wished him to. And as it was, it meant Helios had to work far harder in order to achieve evolution, and that left little in the manner of family love.

So all the stories of those big, happy families that always cared and looked out for one another... the Quilava wished he could've had something like that. And hearing the Alakazam regard the Guild as a sort of family gave Helios a shard of hope. Maybe this was what he needed; not just a place in the Guild in order to actively participate, but the Guild itself, too.

Sylveon brought the recruits back to business by directing them to the job board. Common jobs, bounty jobs, all seemed simple enough on paper. Of course, what mattered was what happened in accepting and participating in the job. One of the other guild members, presumably a more veteran participant, also approached the recruits. Helios's days of working tough were not over yet, but at least he had a sort of evolved form to proceed in.

Helios turned to look, and he saw a grass-type lizard... a Grovyle, wasn't it called? He didn't have time to dwell on it, as the Quilava found himself provided with a compliment, and a question he couldn't really answer.

"Um... well, I..." Helios stammered a bit, nervous as to what to say. He didn't really do anything of merit outside of the Guild now. The Quilava had managed to build a little hut just on the outskirts of town for him to sleep in, but that was about it. He was too shy to go out and meet people, didn't have nearly enough money to buy anything, didn't have any particular pass-time he took interest in... what could he say?

"...I practice," the Quilava finally managed to get out. That's it, you 'practice'? There's no way he's gonna buy that.

Zephyr listened quietly as Alakazam gave his speech. It was certainly an inspirational one this time. Some of his other ones in the past hadn't been quite so. The speech was very important as Zephyr had learned in the past, it could give a recruit the strength to stay in the harsh training of the guild, or make them want to give up before everything began. They had lost people before because Alakazam was busy with something and didn't have the time or energy to come up with a good speech. Which was a shame, because some of those Pokemon had joined other guilds and become first class explorers. He decided to stick around as Sylveon explained the rules and get himself a mission afterward. For the simple reason that he was still keeping an eye on the outside, and of course still had his eyes closed.

Some commotion outside the guild caught the Lucario's attention. It seemed that a group of Pokemon were chasing another one. Their auras said it wasn't because of anger or aggression, but out of hunger. The one Pokemon seemed to have stolen food from the group. This was something that needed to be relayed to Guildmaster, or at least Sylveon. "Sylveon, there's some commotion outside. A group of Pokemon is chasing another lone Pokemon. It seems to be about food." He said keeping his eyes closed as he tracked the progress of the chase. "There are too many auras jumbled together to see what kind of Pokemon they are, unfortunately. But it seems that they are heading deeper into the forest. With food involved things could really ugly really fast."

They needed to send somebody to investigate, because as he had mentioned, food made things turn ugly. There could be a lot of casualties, and if there was a Pokemon with fire moves in the mix the forest could be in danger as well. It was still the job of an exploration team to make sure their mystery dungeons didn't burn to the ground because of an apple.

((A collab post between myself, Redwing, and WatermelonTango.))

Sylveon frowned. "I understand," she told Zephyr. "I'll inform the Guildmaster immediately."

"No need, Sylveon," said Alakazam, emerging from his office. "I heard him. This works out well; I was just planning on heading out anyway." On his back was an old backpack, clearly long past its prime but still sturdy-looking and reliable. In it were all kinds of exploration gear, some berries, a few seeds, and some apples. "I'll investigate as I make my way. Zephyr, would you care to accompany me?"

Zephyr opened his eyes for a moment as the Guildmaster entered the room. It wasn't often that he went out himself, he usually stayed in the guild and took care of all the paperwork and jobs. It was even less often that you got the chance to work with him. So of course he was going to jump on the offer. "I would be honored to accompany you Guildmaster. Just allow me a few minutes to gather my own supplies." He said as he dipped his head respectfully.

Alakazam nodded. "Very good. But, ah, do try to put some speed in your step, hm? I'm starting to be able to hear the ruckus myself, and that can't be good."

============

Clarity was getting tired of this nonsense, whizzing past trees and dodging nippy little pests. She decided that she had enough of this. She spat the apple out before turning herself around to face the pack of rats chasing her, and immediately flapped her wings with the best air cutter she could muster. That did little to stem the hoard; they all scattered and put her inside of a circle again. She began doing the only reasonable thing a dragon would do in this situation; she began firing dragon breaths in frustration, but there were so many of them that she couldn't gain any ground. She suddenly felt a sharp pinch on her ankle, and roared in frustration as she tried to pry off the Ratatta latched on.

"Maybe I'm a little bit over my head here..." She thought to herself as the wall of rats slowly converged on her.

===============

After a few moments, Alakazam and Zephyr were approaching the edge of the forest. A flock of Pidgey flew rapidly overhead, likely away from whatever was causing all the noise and confusion in the forest itself. "Right then, Zephyr," Alakazam said, "you've got the keen Aura Senses. You lead the way. And don't worry; I can keep up," he added as he began to float in place.

Zephyr nodded, closing his eyes once again and expanding his senses. Focusing on the things further away from him, and trust Alakazam to be on the lookout for things nearby. He got hold of the auras of the group he had sensed earlier and began to walk in that direction. Weaving around bushes and trees in a seemingly impossible way as he still had his eyes closed.

It didn't take long for them to reach the commotion and Zephyr was forced to open his eyes. Sometimes it was better to actually see things than sense them. Though it didn't happen too often. The sight was a terrible thing to rely on. It looked like a group of Ratatta, lead by a Raticate were picking on a Noivern. Food was probably involved somehow. He created an Aura Sphere and launched it at the group, being careful not to hit the Noivern as well. It did wonders to get everybody's attention.

"Here now," said Alakazam, touching down onto the ground as they came across the group. "What's all this commotion about?"

Clair's ears suddenly perked up at the sound of some kind of attack... and watched somewhat dazed as an aura sphere flew past. She turned to the source and spotted a Lucario and Alakazam looking over the situation. It seemed like everything paused as they were all stared down.

It was the Raticate who first broke the silence. "Apple! It was my apple! And she stole it!" he said angrily, pointing at the Noivern. The Ratatta around him began shouting agreement.

Alakazam turned to the Noivern. "Oh? Is this true, young one?"

She really didn't have words to describe the situation. It took her a moment to find her voice.
"I uh... well... they.... Erm." She wasn't what you would call a wordsmith. Clarity reached over and picked up the half eaten apple that she had discarded earlier and simply thrust it in the direction of the Raticate.

"I'm sorry for taking it and whatever," She half mumbled while rolling her eyes. This was the worst case scenario; she didn't want to get involved with the town at all if she could avoid it, but here she was getting the attention of all of them. Stupid, stupid stupid! She'd make a show of slapping herself if it wasn't for present company.

The Raticate sneered and swatted the apple away. "Half eaten! Half eaten! No good if it's half eaten! It was whole when you stole it, so whole is what we want!"

"Fine! Whatever!" She quickly snatched it back and made a show of eating the rest. This earned her a lot of agitated glances from those present, but Clarity was being too self satisfied to notice.

Zephyr sighed, this whole situation was just silly. Trying to kill each other over an apple. There were probably hundreds of them in this forest. He took his backpack off his shoulder and rummaged through it for a moment before taking out an apple. "Here, take it to replace the one she stole. Now everybody gets an apple." Except him of course since he had just given it up. But it was better this way. "But know that both groups are in the wrong here. One for stealing in the first place, and the other for letting it bother them. You both live here so you must learn to get along."

Alakazam smiled and nodded approval. "Well said, Zephyr. Now then," he said, turning to face the horde. "I think that should conclude your business here..." His smile was replaced by a dangerous glare. "...Don't you?" The Ratatta all stiffened and backed away, until finally scampering off into the brush and disappearing. The Raticate grabbed the offered apple, then ran off with them. Alakazam sighed. "Well, I'm glad that's settled. Now," he said, turning to the Noivern, "what to do with you?"

Clarity crossed her arms and gave a very indignant stare. She bet they had a hundred apples back in town, and berries, and poffins and all sorts of stuff like that. The crap she has to go through to get a decent meal! She would have continued looking as indignant and rebellious as possible if her stomach wasn't growling so much. She supposed that all the fighting really didn't help her apetite at all. She looked down at her leg where a Ratatta had previously been, and found it rather injured. There was that too. She shrugged her arms and titled her head awkwardly.

"Do you got something to eat?" She asked, slightly embarassed that she was in such a predicament.

Alakazam considered the Noivern in front of him for a moment. Suddenly, an apple began floating from his own backpack over to her. "As a matter of fact, I do." Just before the apple was within her reach, however, it stopped. "But," Alakazam said, "I'm not sure a thief should eat it, certainly not one that has also cost my own guild member his lunch." The apple slowly began to float away.

She had to do her best to restrain a snarl, as would only be expected where she came from. Clarity was tired of always having to go through with difficult nonsense for a meal, but townsfolk had their own ways of being difficult. She briefly thought about leaping for the apple, but decided that would probably worsen her situation.

"You caught me gramps, I'm a thief. A mugger. I lie and steal and all that stuff that mean people do." She threw her wings into the air. "You've got me red handed and all I can ask is; what would you do with me?" She grinned, having more fun then she expected with this.

Alakazam raised an eyebrow. "Now now, it isn't wise to try to lie to a Psychic-type. Hmm..." He turned to Zephyr. "Zephyr, it was your lunch that was taken first. What do you think we should do?"

Zephyr listened patiently as Alakazam dealt with the thief. When she spread her wings he kept a very close eye on her, ready to bring her down if needed. When he was addressed by his Guildmaster at first he just shrugged. He wasn't super intelligent like a Psychic-type was. He was much more of a hands on guy. Fighting-types tended to be. "Well, I don't mind too badly going lunchless. Its good to know what its like to be hungry every once in a while, in case you run out of food in a dungeon. This is the first time we've caught her so I think we should just let her go. But if a bounty shows up on her head I'll take responsibility and take her down." The last part was definitely said as a challenge. He liked a good fight.

Alakazam thought for a moment. "Is that so?" The apple that was still floating was bobbing back and forth as Alakazam considered his decision. Finally, he addressed the Noivern. "Alright, then I will offer you a deal. I will grant you this apple and, as Zephyr has said, allow you to leave in peace. However, if I ever see your poster on the Bounty Board, we will come to find you. You will not escape that time. Are we clear?"

Clarity pondered it over and decided that she would give in. She didn't like being bossed around like this, but her need for food usually won out versus her need for dignity. She nodded her head in Alakazam's direction.

"Erm.. well.. okay. That sounds reasonable." Despite her flippant attitude before she tried her best to seem genuine. "I'm sorry for causing so much trouble."

Alakazam nodded in return, and the apple slowly floated over to her. "You're forgiven. Do stay safe; the forest can be dangerous... as I'm sure you're now far more aware."

"Yeah well... thanks." She clutched the apple in her claws. She turned to leave, but something made her look over her shoulder over at the Lucario.
"Say, what's your name?"

"It's Zephyr." He said when the thief asked about his name. It didn't seem bad to do so. He had the guild behind him if she decided to bring friends.

"I'm Clarity." She said simply before shoving the apple in her mouth and flying away. You could tell by the way one of her talons were curled up that those rats had done a number on her foot. She pierced through the forest canopy and didn't turn back.

Alakazam watched Clarity as she flew off into the distance. When she was just a speck in the sky, he turned back to Zephyr. "Well now, I'm glad we got that settled peacefully. Thank you, Zephyr. You were a big help."

Zephyr wasn't used to being complimented by someone as famous as the Guildmaster. So he turned his head away in a shy manner, pretending to be focused on something else. "It was nothing. I'm just honored that you allowed me to come with you."

Alakazam smiled. "Think nothing of it." He readjusted his backpack. "Right then, I'm off on a small expedition. I trust you can find your way back. Tell Sylveon I should be back within the next few days. Until then." With a wave, Alakazam turned and headed deeper into the forest.

The Quilava didn't reply to Henry's hugging him. He stood there, cowering in fear. Henry didn't get much of a chance to comfort the other Pokemon, because the Guildmaster had started making his speech. It was alright, he talked about the possible adventures they would have, and how everyone in this guild was like one big, happy family. Henry couldn't help smiling at that. The Breloom couldn't help giggling when the Alakazam fell asleep in the middle of talking, and the Sylveon had to slap him in the face to wake him up.

Once the Guildmaster was done talking, Sylveon pointed the group to the job board, and then debriefed everyone on all the rules. At this, Henry only kind of paid attention. He never paid much attention to rules. Sure, they can keep you safe in a dangerous situation, but from his experience, they also held one back from exciting new experiences. Thankfully, the ones here didn't seem super-strict. The fact that the guild got most of the reward money was odd, but Henry wasn't in this for the money anyway, and 10 percent is still pretty good. After giving the new recruits their badges, she was finally finished, before the Guildmaster, and a Lucario took off somewhere.

"Whoo-hoo! We're officialy explorers now!" The Breloom shouted upon receiving his badge. He was about to hop over to the job board, to see what kind of jobs there were, but the two recruits were spoken to by a Grovyle, who was one of the veteran members of this group. There were a few Treekos, and their mother Sceptile living back home, but he hadn't actually seen a Grovyle up close, because the ones he knows spend more time in trees, than on the ground. Quilava only barely managed to utter a response, even though the Guildmaster had made it clear that everyone here was like family. There was no reason to be nervous. Afterwards, Henry took his turn to speak. "Ooh, I like doing all kinds of stuff! I'm willing to try anything once! I wasn't allowed to do much of anything back home, so now, I just wanna LIVE LIFE TO FULLEST! WOO!" He replied, bouncing around excitedly, and throwing his arms up as he spoke. "Hey, the three of us should go on a mission together! Although... I don't know how much of a good idea it is to have two Grass types on the same team, but, eh... can't know untill you try, right?"

The Helios Took a while to find his words.
"...I practice," Was the simple response to Growy question. Could it be Growy started questioning his appearance. The shattering of confidence was all but visible. Have he left such a horrible first impression the other pokemon didnt want to say more then two words to him?! Was looking sure, be overbearing? Growy mind went into a near full out depression. He would have just jumped away to the corner and pretend to be a wall flower. Preferable a dark corner to hide his ugliness. His confidence all but non-existing at this moment, being positive it was his fault and the fault of his looks the other was so little on words. Probably Helios just couldnt stand to look at the ugly face of Growy. His fingers went to touch his own cheeks. As if feeling up if he had some ugly wound or who knew what there.

But his mind got distracted by hearing the Guildmasters voice. Zephyr informed them what was going on outside while he was in his worry stuck. Alakazam and Zephyr going out taking care of it. He waved them off. There was no worries that things will be settled. With them going out he sighed.

Before he could actually hide somewhere and groom for the rest of the day to ensure his appearance to be perfect. The Breloom bounced, well he was bouncing all the time but now it got more relevant as he started talking too.
"Ooh, I like doing all kinds of stuff! I'm willing to try anything once! I wasn't allowed to do much of anything back home, so now, I just wanna LIVE LIFE TO FULLEST! WOO!"

His worries trow over the edge and out the view for a moment. He smiled again.
"Hey, the three of us should go on a mission together! Although... I don't know how much of a good idea it is to have two Grass types on the same team, but, eh... can't know untill you try, right?"

'' We could dance at one point too. If you want to try everything.'' He nodded, He did looked like he had a ton of energy to spend and If adding a bit on the footwork he could be quite the dance to the right music that is. A faster one, and more playful.

He looked at Hellios again. Maybe to give it another try?
''We could try a easier mission for you guys first mission. Then it shouldnt be too troublesome for having two grass types.'' With that he went to look at the job board. Looking at the general category, for something simple. He rubbed his chin in thought. '' So you two what would you like to do? Something like search? Or collecting of some sort? Escort could be harder, depending where we end up going. ''

He pounded the choose himself, wondering why isnt there just a entertain guest sort of quest. Well on that one he could shine up nicely with his looks and skills. It would fit him so perfectly. But in lack of those others may get interesting too. Maybe he get to see a new fascinating place? Something breathtaking and beautiful like he was.

The Quilava was definitely unsure of his response, but he got notably confused at the Grovyle's reaction to it. He had seemed to dampen his expression quickly, his hands moving to presumable mask himself. The Guildmaster's door suddenly was thrown open again, and Helios snapped to attention. Had the Guildmaster forgotten something vital?

Ah... apparently there was large conflict in the forest, with a large pack of Ratatta. The Lucario has already planned to intercept it, but now it seemed Alakazam wished to join him, under the pretense that he had wanted to set out anyways. The pair wasted no time in readying their gear and heading outside, practically bursting at the seams with power and confidence.

Meekly, Helios looked to his own badge, still clutched in a forepaw. After some hesitation, the Quilava pushed himself up and back on his hindlegs. He was much taller in this state, but also allowed two free paws to affix the badge to the complimentary neck-worn bandanna of the Guild.

The Breloom's bright and bounding nature yet again spoke, wanting and able to do anything he could. Helios still couldn't bring himself to talk to Henry, only dwell on how different the two of them were. The Grovyle, though, had definitely reacted positively to Henry's suggestions, and resumed his act of greeting the newcomers. The plant lizard looked to Heli for a moment, something sparkling in his eyes that the Quilava couldn't quite discern. Then he moved over to the job board, scanning the list for, "a easier mission for you guys first mission."

Returning to his quadruped stance, Heli went to join the others at the board. He almost halfheartedly leafed through the different jobs tacked on the cork-board, perhaps expecting the plant-types to come up with a better choice. In that moment, his father's voice seemed to ring forth again:

"No, no, NO! You can't just expect anyone else to do what YOU can do just as well on your own!"

It was harsh, but it got the point across. Without any further question, Helios aimed for something on the bulletin board. Something easy, but good practice nonetheless. One offer stood out: Help! I lost my Pecha Scarf somewhere in the forest, and it's too dangerous for me to go myself. Please find it for me, or I won't be able to hang out with my friend Goomy! Helios pointed out the slip of paper and said, "That one? Doesn't seem that challenging..." He ended up trailing off, unsure if what he said would end up coming back to bite him later.

Clarity was embarrassed. Embarrassed that she let herself get beaten up by a bunch of mice. Embarrassed that she let herself be found by the townsfolk so easily. And most of all, she was embarrassed that she let herself get bossed around by a couple of guild chumps. That was a stupid mistake and something she couldn't allow to happen again. Clarity was angling herself towards Mist Mountain, using her tail as a sort of rudder and heading back to her concealed cave when the thought of that lucario popped into her head.

She didn't know what compelled her to ask Zephyr's name, nor what compelled her to tell Zephyr hers. But if there was one thing she wanted to do, it was to take that guy on in a battle. He looked like a tough customer. She felt the need to test her own strength... so why not? Maybe she'd find out for herself exactly how tough townsfolk were.She was mulling the idea over in her head over as she descended into the hidden entrance of her cavern, out of the brightness of the outside and into the more comfortable darkness. Clarity decided that if she wanted to take this Lucario on in a battle... first she would need to get some rest. She grabbed on to the ceiling with her talons, very gingerly in the case of her injured ankle, and fell asleep, waiting for night so that she can make her move.

''We could dance at one point too. If you want to try everything.'' The Grovyle replied. To which Henry just laughed out loud. "Haha! Good one!" Everyone seemed to agree with his suggestion, and they all went up to the job board to pick out what to do for their first job.

There were a lot of options there but he wasn't sure what to pick. There was one that involved fighting a Graveler, but that seemed a bit too hard because it was all the way at the top of a volcano... As Henry lowered his gaze to check out the lower level missions, Helios the Quilava beat him to it, and found one first. Something about finding a Pecha Scarf in the middle of a forest. Henry's face brightened, and he started bouncing up down faster. "Well, that looks easy! Great choice buddy!" He shouted as he gave Heli a pat on the back. "Let's do that one then!"

Growy looked over to the Mission, taking it from the Helios to read it over. '' Yes it should be good, we still should get prepared and then go out for it. '' He nodded, showing a sure smile and a thumb up. He went to a table and left the mission there writing a note that they were going for it. Mostly for sylveon to know.

It wasnt even ten minutes later Growy had a bag packed up. A nice green one, he found the bag made him look more impressive. But inside it was a more important items, they did went in the woods with a ton of poisonous pokemon. Or at least insect pokemon who may end up biting them or something. Growy would hate to get a wound, because they did ruined his carefully taken appearance.
'' You two ready? Lets not let anyone wait for their scarf to look pretty!''

The other two seemed to respond nicely to Helios' choice, the Breloom even going so far as to gave a hearty pat on the back for commending. He was at least a bit reassured in that his decision wasn't faulty, but then there was the matter of the mission itself. He would have to be plenty careful when exercising his powers in the woods, lest he risk setting the whole forest ablaze and angering far more than a few Pokemon. As Growy insisted to then to start packing, Helios only nodded, retreating to obtain some things to take with him.

The Quilava returned not too long later; he had donned a belt around his upper waist, with which a satchel was clipped to upon his left side. He had packed a bit sparsely, given his current living conditions, but still quite essential: some assorted berries, a few rocks for throwing, and a couple of Blast Seeds, courtesy of his homeland. The latter provided a good alternative to his somewhat below-par firepower. Heli merely stated "Alright..." as he entered the room, barely indicating that he was packed for the mission, at least as best as he could be packed.

Henry ran to his room, and came back carrying a small brown satchel around his shoulders. He travelled lightly when he left home, and he didn't have a whole lot to bring with, his bag contained a bunch of different kinds of berries. There were plenty of berry bushes growing where he came from, so getting so many berries wasn't difficult. There were some Oran Berries, Pecha Berries, Chesto Berries, as well as a few other random berries that the Breloom hadn't seen before, but decided to pick them anyway. Once he was done packing, he came back out to join the others. Anxious to leave, he started bouncing up and down rapidly. "Alright, you guys done yet?! I was ready yesterday! Let's GOGOGOGO!"

Growy smiled at both as they came ready. turning around his axis elegantly, he pointed the way and went down it. It didnt take at all long as they reached the forest. The sun was nicely shining between the leaves a nice breeze caressing their faces. Growy took a deep breath, hearing some of the Pidgeys fly of somewhere.
He went to this forest several times as a Treecko around the forest could be scary if you are weak. Now he was for a change really confident that he shouldnt be in too much trouble.

'' We should first go down the way pokemon use when going though the forest before looking deeper in left and right. '' He knew the best would be to separate and each of them searching on they own that way they could cover more ground. But he was always reluctant on that part.

(TBC IN NEXT POST)