The girl Jin gave a very polite, almost timid introduction. It seemed to Gentry that she hadn't expected anyone to approach her, and he couldn't blame her. It wasn't like him to strike up conversation with strangers, but Scizor pulled him into it and he didn't want to appear rude. He did have a certain standard to uphold for his country, after all.

A few bubbles drifted in front of Gentry, who swatted them away before they popped on his face. They drifted towards scizor, who stopped mid bite to follow them with his eyes until it landed right on his claw. It stood for a second before popping, which made the focused bug pokemon jump back a bit. Gentry watched the whole thing and shook his head a bit. It was amazing to him how Scizor could be so fierce on the battlefield and so childlike at other times.

"If you don't mind me asking, do you know any details about why are we here?"

"Well, only what was said in the Emperor's summons. Some dark force is out there and it's threatening all of us. We're called to defeat it. The message wasn't very clear I'm afraid." Gentry had dealt with the Phoenician emperor before, only before it was not on very friendly terms. Bordering Leonias to the South, Phoenicis was often one of the nations Gentry fought against. Gentry led many battles against the Phoenicis troops, and in his opinion always came out the victor, though sometimes the winner wasn't so clear. Being there as an invited guest was certainly strange. For a while Gentry believed the whole thing was a trap set by the emperor to eliminate the strongest warriors of the rivaling nations, but that thought seemed to slip away with every minute he spent in the palace.

Gentry looked over the table the two were at and noticed two more people chatting away. As he turned back towards Jin he thought he saw someone he recognized. "The woman with the Gallade.." He thought, but decided it couldn't have been the woman with the Gallade. At every major battle against Phoenicis it seemed there was a woman there, teleporting around and attacking in synchronization with her pokemon. Even when Leonias won crushing victories, she always seemed to get away, much to Gentry's frustration. He decided to ignore it for now and focused again on Jin.

"I don't believe you stated where you were from?"

@NuttsnBolts@c3p-0h

“Think of it as a gift, we will all need our strength in the days to come.” She gently put the satchel on the table, Tadashi keeping one eye on her as he continued decimating the roasted Octillery. Kai had caught sight of the Princess and watched the fairy Pokemon with a curious expression on his face.

“My name is Sumiko, it's a pleasure to meet you Yueri.” She bowed her head, her attention focused on the Espeon perched on the armrest of the chair. She was beautiful, looking for all the world as if this were her castle. She had not seen many of them and wondered briefly if they all had such noble bearings. The gem on its forehead gleamed brightly, an indication that it was extremely well cared for.

“Your Espeon is very beautiful.” She stated, when the air around here seemed to cool down quite suddenly. A familiar chill seemed to settle around her, as she realized he must also have a ghost type with him. A low growl came from her right, Tadashi was understandably restless around ghost pokemon. Though, he would have looked much more intimidating without Kai gnawing on his forearm. She smiled and shook her head, the Gallade still taunt for a moment before relaxing his stance.

“Please forgive him, Ghost pokemon make him feel...troubled.”

@McHaggis

"Where I'm from?"

The presented question somewhat caught her off guard thinking that it would be obvious considering she was seated at the Argentian's table, but taking a quick glance around she came to the realisation that no one was really sitting under their country's banner. Most people were migrating from table to table in an effort to branch their connections, whether it's be in good spirits or for an ulterior motive was still something that was left open to a later discussion.

"I'm from Argent, but my family originally migrated there from the Xiurong region a lifetime ago," Jin began as she opened up a bit to her newly found associate. She leaned back relaxing a bit as she held up her hand and pointed to Scizor, "He's cute."

By this time there was a cluster of bubbles surrounding Scizor and you could see his attention was drawn in quite deeply. No one would have blamed him either with all the colours of the rainbow reflecting along the glossy surface. Letting her hand drop to her side, Jin tapped Staryu gently and heard the familiar chirp that he often makes. The gem in the centre of his body instantly glowed red and he bounced up from his resting position onto two of his arms, standing proud and vibrant.

"He sometimes gets a bit carried away," Jin giggled as she began to tickle the back of Staryu's body, "It's a good thing I don't have any rock Pokemon otherwise they would be constantly fighting with the amount of bubble he releases... Well I don't believe I do."

Jin looked down to her lap and pulled out a small rucksack from under the table. Opening it up and reaching in, she exposed a small rock roughly about twice the size of a closed fist. It had a few unusual markings and a crack along the front. She calmly analysed it within her grasps holding it close enough so that the whole room couldn't see what she was doing, all while twisting her hand around so that she could see all the surfaces. "I have no idea what Pokemon this is meant to be but it's something my grandmother gave me before I came here." As she held onto the rock it began to resonate with a subtle whisper before she quickly stuffed it back within her bag. As interesting as it was, it did creep her out a bit.

Looking up at Gentry she took her turn to pop a question of curiosity, "I don't suppose you have any other Pokemon, do you?"

@Chexmix

Eric

She seemed to become more at ease at this point. Her shoulders relaxed and her posture became much less defensive. Perhaps, it was because Eric and his Pokemon had shown that their intentions were not sinister in nature. Although composed, she still appeared to be unsure about him and showed this with how she took the plate. She was hesitant at first, but slowly accepted the gift and returned to her original spot.

"Ahem, thank you. I appreciate your generosity."

Once again, Eric smiled very warmly as the girl spoke. He was quite surprised that she thanked him for the food. It wasn't very often that someone thanked him for anything, especially where he lived. Usually, they would take his help and go about their day, not even batting an eye. However, she didn't do this, and he greatly appreciated her politeness. As the young girl began to turn away from him, Eric expected her to depart and leave him alone in the corner. However, it appeared she changed her mind and turned back to face him.

"Just to let you know! I was not scared."

A small chuckle escaped his lips. He didn't believe her when she said this, and it didn't seem like she did either! Her voice wavered and her feet shuffled nervously. It was obvious she was frightened at first. Hell, he might as well have been a ghost coming to haunt her days in the castle! Eric's eyes closed for a moment in laughter, before meeting her blue eyes once again.

"I-I'm Mana by the way."

There was something about her - something that made him feel at ease and comfortable in her presence. Maybe, it was because she was just as awkward as he was! Whatever it was about her, Eric liked it. He took a step closer to her, lessening the gap between them.

"It's nice to meet you Mana," he said with another genuine smile. "That's a very beautiful name!"

@Illusion

Shu

Shu eyed the foreign meat on her plate, unsure of where to start – or if she could even stomach more food when she was so tense. Though she was calm and quiet as a frozen pond, every muscle was coiled, ready to react to a threat. Out of the corner of her eye she spotted the Leonias soldier – Gentry – glance at her but otherwise he didn't acknowledge her. Shu turned her head slightly and caught his eyes in her own green gaze. Her eyebrow twitched up the slightest bit at him.

Then she turned back to the food that for some reason she was determined to eat at this table. Why was that again? Oh right. Exploring her heritage or something. Wu just eyed her, giving her a flat expression. Ignoring him, Shu reached to pick up her chopsticks (though the more she looked at her food, the more she realized she'd likely need a knife and fork… did they have something against small, easy to swallow portions in Leonias?) when something shot past her face.

Shu reflexively flinched away, her hand flashing up to capture the offending object. Her mind caught up with her body and she blinked to see a wrist ensnared in her iron grip. She followed the arm up to see a blond man who was much too close to her. He was filthy. And sunburnt. And quite frankly, he smelled. But the possibility that he was a threat faded with each passing second as he shifted and stared awkwardly. After a quick glance at Wu, she released the arm and lowered her hand into her lap. The Gallade was just as tense as she was, but if he didn't read this stranger as a threat, then he was likely harmless. Besides, it wouldn't do to start an international incident in the emperor's palace.

She waited for him to excuse himself after he grabbed the meat he'd been reaching for… except he didn't. He just kept standing there. Unreasonably close to her. Talking. Great Phoenix above, he was smiling at her. He couldn't possibly expect her to make conversation with him. What did he even – and why on earth did he insist on so much eye-contact?

This storm of frenzied, uncomfortable thoughts brewed under the surface of Shu's composed mask as she continued looking up at him. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Wu sitting unnaturally still. That smug bastard was enjoying this. Fighting the urge to fidget, she refocused her vision on the stranger. She blinked again. Was he done talking? It seemed like he was done. That meant she should probably reply. Not knowing what else to do, she gave a small nod. Then, the picture of calm and grace, she pulled her chair out and stood, leaving her plate of food on the table. Suddenly eating at this table and exploring her heritage didn't seem all that important. Without another glance at the man, Shu turned and walked away, heading for her safe spot against the wall. Wu got up and followed after her, eyeing the stranger as he passed. If it seemed like the pair walked a bit quicker than usual, it was probably just a trick of the light.

@densoro@chexmix

It seemed as though Mana successfully avoided the topic through her awkward introduction. After releasing a sigh of relief, she suddenly stiffened again. Eric took a step closer--but that wasn't it. It meant his Pokemon took a step closer as well. Mana gulped as she was already backed into the wall from earlier. Instead, this time, she moved a step to her side. Gah! I'm not doing this intentially! If I move back now though, I'd just look ridiculous.

"It's nice to meet you Mana," he gave the same smile as before. "That's a very beautiful name!"

Mana had a surprised expression and her face became a little red. She turned away slightly and faked a cough to hide her embarrassment. "Thank you. I was named after my grandmother, Manami." She tried her hardest to keep her posture as sophisticated as possible. "Your name, er, seems rather interesting. I'm assuming you're not from around here?" She asked, but already knew the answer to her rather obvious assumption.

Mana could feel the eyes of his Pokemon on her and started getting nervous. Somewhat of a smooth-talker WITH Pokemon? Sounds like danger according to what the old ladies back in the town gossip about. She wondered whether or not to be more cautious. They were both most likely there for the same reason nevertheless so there was probably no need.

@RestlessComfort

Several ornamented soldiers marched into the mess hall, their pace matching with one another's and lances firmly clutched in their fists. Their helms were in the shape of their god's mighty head; the visor was shaped exactly like a long golden beak and there was a feathered crest placed on the very top. The rest of the armor was dyed a ruby red. As they marched to the exquisite throne at the head of the throne room, the soldiers began to disband, some taking places near the throne and others near the ends of the long tables, their eyes flicking coldly to and fro from behind their decorated masks. It was then that one could see the emperor of Phoenicis himself.

The emperor was said to be young and handsome, but not incredibly so. The young man could certainly charm any woman he wanted. His hair, a stark black, drifted down in gentle rivulets, stopping just above his neck. His eyes were a caramel-color; a golden-brown that one could see from any corner of the room. His face was without a beard or mustache, but it did not need one. He was dressed in russet garments trimmed with gold, his sleeves almost rippling down all the way to the floor. One couldn't see his legs or hands, but it was obvious that he was a delicate looking lad that was meant to lead and negotiate, not to fight and kill.

"May we present," one of the soldiers at his side boomed. "The lord and protector of our land, the Son of the Sun himself, Our Grace Emperor Yamamoto."

The sound of gongs resonated throughout the large hall.

Many of the Phoenician volunteers, stood and bowed as their young emperor took a seat on his ornamented throne. Some others did the same simply for respect, while others simply watched. By that time, everyone had taken a seat, so the emperor began to speak. "I thank all of you for attending," his voice was clear and soothing, like a cold, crystal stream on a hot afternoon. "Remember that you do not offer your arms for your country alone, but for Atlas as a whole. I do not see a gathering of men and women from different nations in front of me, but a grouping together of people from the same land. I am gracious to see that so many have come to fight for the future of every man, woman, child, and Pokemon in Atlas. Soon, this blight will come to an end at the hands of the very people of the continent."

Several people cheered with delight upon the morale-boosting words of the grand emperor. But what was the point, when the despair of the journey to overpower hope? "You shall find the very source of the beasts' frenzy and crush it before much damage can be done," Yamamoto continued, his voice growing fiercer as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I allow you to do whatever you wish to the culprits, however, please show them what it means to meddle with us, the people of Atlas, before ending their petty lives, if you decide to do so."

"I have spoken to all of the leaders of Atlas and it is decided that no countryman will bring you harm. If they do, please report them to officials whenever you can," the emperor continued. "My advisers have told me that it is best for you to first go north towards Leonias to Aurios, as it is summer and it is not wise to trek through the northern parts during the winter. I require a second group to travel through conditions of Argent, but beware, for you must prepare for the cold floods inbound. I encourage you to be quick; an Aurion fall is just as deadly as its winter. The faster you can get to Aurios and back, the better."

"That is all I have to say," Yamamoto continued with a soft smile. "I plead for you to work together and choose a leader amongst yourselves, as I can see that you have already... interacted. Though be warned that if any of you turn your blade on one another, you will be appropriately punished once you return to your homeland. That is all. Enjoy the rest of your night."

The emperor stood up again, and the soldiers surrounded him in a protective fashion much like they had when they arrived. The gongs resonated once again. In the matter of a few moments, Yamamoto was gone, along with his guards.

Jack of Aurious

____

He's not sticking around for dinner? You'd think a host would further entertain their guests... Jack thought to himself, sitting at the Aurios table with his Spearow, Garuda, and his Chimchar, Vulcan. The trio had been peckish in regards to the food, stomachs churning still from so many different people in one room, and willing to kill him and his table in a heartbeat. Jack assumed there would be teams, but it didn't hit him until now. He had always been a lone wolf type, it was how he grew up, and he had no idea how to form a group...let alone lead one if he became leader. Though, with the idea of heading north first he assumed a seasoned veteran of Aurios territory would be a great choice. Many were known to die in just the fall of Aurious alone from inexperience, he would be crucial to survive.

Or he could go it alone, following another group from a distance. That seemed like the best option thus far, seeing as people had already begun to group up. He could tail them all out of the city, assuming they took the Emperor's advice and headed north first to avoid the coming winter, and see which group stood the best chance and more open to him joining. Or, he could follow a group heading south, if one did so they would not fear the winter in the north and they would most likely be filled with people similar to himself. They would also be daring to go the road less traveled to complete their goal, something Jack assumed would need to be done in order to complete their task.

"Spearow!" Garuda said, nudging Jack with her head and directing him to the door. Either to the groups forming up there or ready to leave herself.

"Chimchar?" Vulcan titled his head, taking a bite of some bread on the table and looking from Jack to the door.

"We're going on a mission for the Emperor, Vulcan. What do you two think? Group up now or later?" Jack questioned, sipping his drink and scanning the crowd of grouping people. It'd be best to have someone in the group from each territory, would make traveling much easier. Jack decided it best to see the groups form up in the hall before making any more decisions, watching from the side to survey the scene and his available choices.

Eric

"Your name, er, seems rather interesting. I'm assuming you're not from around here?"

Eric was about to answer Mana's question when the soldiers began to fall in and take up posts throughout the entire mess hall. Kyo tensed up, showing that he was nervous about the incoming possible threat. Sei gave a quiet growl, and Saber once again wormed her way between Eric's legs. All the soldiers looked very big and intimidating, the total opposite of the Emperor. He was a small, slender man who seemed friendly enough. His movements were very elegant, and he spoke with grace. While he gave his speech, Eric listened close. This would be the first time he's ever been on an "adventure."

Being a small town boy, he really had no desire to explore around and adventure about. But now, there was an opportunity and choice in front of him. Should I just pack up and return home? he wondered. Or, should I take part in this journey, and do whatever I can to ensure the safety of Atlas? He couldn't just leave Atlas in danger because, if Atlas was in danger, that means so was his family and his way of life. If there was something...anything he could do to help, he as going to do it to make sure his loved ones were safe.

Finally, the Emperor finished his speech and returned to his living quarters via guard escort. Almost immediately after the Emperor vacated the mess hall, alliances and groups began to form. People from different countries were even coming together and departing for Aurios. By the second, the mess hall's population dwindled. Soon, there were less than 100 people left trying to find someone to go with. He turned his attention back to Mana, who looked a bit bewildered and surprised at the Emperor's address.

"Wow..." he began softly. "It looks like people are finding their way into groups rather quickly." His hands found their way into his pockets as he stood watching the chaos in the dining hall. "To answer your question from before, I'm not from here. I'm actually a native of Aurios...which just so happens to be where everyone is heading."

It would be a good idea to find a group. In a group, there were more people to watch your back and you stood a better chance against any threat that opposed you. His options were dwindling fast; Eric needed to find some people quickly if he was to have any chance at stopping this malicious force. She may not have any Pokemon, Eric thought. But Mana would be a good addition and a good start to forming any kind of group.

@Illusion

"I'm from Argent, but my family originally migrated there from the Xiurong region a lifetime ago,"

Argent, that was a relief. Argent was the only neighboring nation Leonias didn't have a recent history of war with. This was likely due to the mountain chain that ran between them, creating a natural barrier which halted any aggressive moves. Gentry didn't have much experience in Argent, and had even less with the Xiurongese.

Scizor heard the comment, then closed his eyes and crossed his arms. It was clear he was pleased with the compliment and now was starting to show off. Gentry couldn't help but let out a light chuckle. "Few people have ever met Scizor and called him cute. Though I suppose few people meet him if it's not as an enemy." Scizor knelt down in front of the Staryu and blinked twice before a bubble popped in his face again, though this time Scizor was prepared and thought it funny. Gentry examined the stone she held closely.

"I can't say I know exactly what kind of Pokemon it is either. None that I have any experience with. Your Staryu, however, will evolve into a Starmie if exposed to a special stone. Something like that may help on such a dangerous journey like this." Gentry leaned back and crossed his arms at her question. It was clear now where Scizor learned the stance. "Actually, I have two more outside. They're-"

The entrance of the emperor, followed by various oohs and ahs from the others gathered interrupted Gentry before he could proudly proclaim his other two companions. Gentry watched the whole thing silently, listening to every word and carefully considering the advice of the emperor. When the speech was over and the emperor gone, the room erupted with the sound of chairs sliding back and warriors heading for the door. It was imperative that they begin right away, as every second wasted was a second the darkness grew stronger.

"We should go, the emperor is right. An Aurion winter is worse than you can imagine, and we don't want to fall behind. Meet me in the coutyard, you can meet the others first hand." With that, Gentry turned to leave, hoping the woman would follow. It would be nice to have an acquaintance so early in the journey, which could very well be a long one. Scizor smiled again and waved as they walked out.

Gentry found Salamence and Absol curled up in the sun as expected. "Rise and shine, friends. It's time to move out." He stroked the neck of his dragon while he greeted the two, with Absol letting out a soft purr and rubbing up against Gentry's leg. The emperor's speech, while not incredibly encouraging, had lit a fire under Gentry, and he was ready to get to the bottom of all the chaos and bring it to justice. Entei's righteous flame would burn all evil things away until there was balance in the world, and so would Gentry. It was comforting to know they would be heading through Leonias, but he knew it would be a long time before they reached it. The thought of Aurios in the winter was enough motivation in itself to get moving.

Salamence stood up, stretched, and a big flap of its wings send a gust of wind across the grass of the courtyard. "There we go, Sal. Let's get going." Salamence bent its neck down and Gentry climbed up, mounting himself on the dragon type as he had done countless times. Absol followed, jumping onto Salamence's back and taking a seat right beside Gentry.

@nuttsnbolts

In Paro's experience, hearty culinary recommendations were an ironclad ice-breaker. Who isn't eager to take a bite of a delicious new taste sensation and spend hours talking through mouthfuls of it? Everybody needs to eat.

Apparently, not everybody needs to speak, though. Just as suddenly as the girl had appeared in Paro's field of vision, she had disappeared back into the crowd. It was altogether...not his worst first impression. However, it did leave him with another problem: it seems not everybody needs berry sauce the way he needed berry sauce, either. The dainty little dish still waited halfway across the banquet table, aromatic and undisturbed.

Well. Paro had every intention of disturbing it. However, the woman in green had left her plate...If she planned on coming back, he couldn't just steal her seat. Sore as his legs still were, they were underneath a young man with manners and a sensible solution.

He leaned over the chair, resting his stomach on the gilded wooden frame, and reached for the ladle with his free hand. Momentarily off-balance, he extended a leg directly behind himself and into the aisle for balance, all the while holding his plate as level as he could manage.

People began to stare at the boy with his leg raised like a yellow Poochyena marking its territory, but his silver fingertips had under an inch until--

Got it! At least, he was pretty sure he had. The palace's ceramics were lighter than those in his hometown, and felt positively airy in his armored grasp. He tightened the grip of his fingertips around the handle, only to watch it shoot out from between his fingers with an enthusiastic tink!

At precisely this moment, armored footfalls resounded throughout the hall. Paro recognized the calm lockstep of warriors in their own home, but it dawned on him a little later that they were coming right up his aisle. Expertly as expected, the ruby knights of Phoenicis maneuvered around his boot, extended at chest height into their official business. With one last glance between the deep purple topping and the cascade of busy, armored men, Paro lowered his foot in embarrassment and turned his attention to the front of the room.

What he heard then lifted his spirits entirely: from here on out, the people of Atlas were, first and foremost, the people of Atlas. Just as summer warms the whole continent...he thought to himself, grinning. After years of war, this was what Atlas needed.

Jin wandered through the hallway following the crowd of people while hugging her Staryu. She had just previously heard the Emperor's speech before being invited to go outside to see the remainder of Gentry's Pokemon. She wondered about what the Emperor said and tried to make sense of his rather lacklustre speech.

"You shall find the very source of the beasts' frenzy and crush it before much damage can be done..."

There just didn't seem to be a huge amount of information, like who they were off to battle against, or why they were causing so much hardship for the people of Atlas. Surely he would have gathered more information about these foes, that is unless he wasn't able to. The recent conflict between the nations had made it fairly difficult for travel to the various lands. Aurios, being north of Leonias and Argent, meant that it was difficult for Phoenicis scouts to make the trek without being spotted or attacked. He may have sent people north to deal with the incident and just never heard back, thus it would make sense as to why this meeting was held in the first place.

The more Jin thought about it, the more questions she had and it was beginning to do her head in. All those thoughts vanished however when she made her way through the doorway to the outside courtyard. Sitting atop of large dragon creature was Gentry and he seemed to be the centre of attention to what looked like a young Aurios woman attempting to talk to him. Jin looked in awe at the beast before carefully approaching the duo only to hear the woman call out towards the dragon-rider.

"Wait!" Kasumi cried out in an attempt to stop the dragon from taking off. "That's... That's an Absol! I have one too!" @Ananfal

Sure enough this woman had an Absol, along with an Arcanine and Braviary. The woman's Absol was rearing up on it's hind legs as if to try and reach out towards it's own kind. Jin smiled for a moment realising how nice it was for these different nations to finally come together with a common enemy at hand.

Letting Staryu drop down to the ground, Jin raised her hands to her mouth and called out towards the two trainers, "Gentry!!! We'll head west towards the coast and move up through Argent!" Giving him a large wave, she spun on the spot and headed out towards the Phoenicis town in order to gather a few supplies for the trip, Staryu beside her bouncing his way along the path.

"Pretty cool that we happen to meet up with a Dragon-rider, 'ey Staryu?" Jin spoke in glee as she approached the Castle storage locker and handed a token towards the attendant. The attendant quickly ducked into the back room and returned bearing her sword. Staryu chirped in acknowledgement to her statement as she re-tied the belt to her side. "Just a few more things and we should be ready to go."

@Chexmix

Shu

Shu had to blink the stars from her eyes when the emperor took his leave. She'd… just been in his royal presence. She, a dirty half-breed, had just been addressed by the emperor of her country. And now, on his behalf, she was to embark on a quest for the good of the kingdoms of Atlas. A small, dazzled smile began working its way across her lips, as she stood awe-struck, staring at the spot where the emperor had been.

Of course, the reminder that she'd have to work with people not only from her own country, but with past enemies as well, put a damper on her mood. Shu supposed it was a good sign that no brawls had broken out in the palace yet. In fact, even though the electric tension lingered, the citizens of Atlas had seemed to at least attempt some sort of socialization with each other. Maybe some would even be able to look past her perpetually foreign blood. And the fact that she had killed a few of their countrymen. Shu was hopeful, but not optimistic. Besides, they didn't have to like each other to fight together. Being a soldier had taught her that much, at least.

Shu and Wu turned to look at each other, and gave a small nod. People were already clearing out and forming their parties. They needed to ready themselves. In the next moment, the clamor of the palace fell away and they were once again standing in their little home, Shu's father, Han, sitting before them. A packed bag was at his feet. Shu was in her father's arms almost before he could stand. He whispered prayers in her ear for a triumphant quest and the good of Atlas, but most of all that she would return to him. They pulled apart and Han wiped a tear from his daughter's cheek. Then it was time to get ready.

Wu and Han helped Shu put on her light leather armor, making sure the ties were secure, but still movable. Shu put her hair up in a tight ponytail, her wispy fringe falling forward to cover her forehead and eyes as it always did. When they were done, Shu picked up the bag and hoisted the strap over her shoulder. Han looked between Shu and Wu one last time, his hands on their shoulders. Placing one last kiss on Shu's forehead, he gave them a sad smile.

And then he was gone.

Shu's eyes refocused on the one person she'd hoped she wouldn't have to deal with: Gentry. The Gallade had dropped them in the palace courtyard, right in between three people who seemed to be in the middle of something. A rather excited woman with an Absol, the other woman who'd been with Gentry inside the palace, and standing directly in front of Shu, the Leonias soldier. He was, of course, making a spectacle of himself, sitting atop his dragon.

Her fingers twitched, but whether it was to make a fist or grab her sword, she couldn't tell.

She wanted nothing more than to have Wu just teleport them away, right then and there. Heck, Shu would just walk if he didn't. But… they'd appeared very deliberately in the middle of this group, in front of this man. (Shu had no doubt that was intentional on the Gallade's part. There would be payback.) She couldn't just run away from this. She wouldn't run from this. Shu gave a quiet sigh, her shoulders lowering the slightest bit in resignation.

Fighting the urge to look (glare) at Wu, she opened her mouth to speak.

"Shu and Wu, soldiers of Phoenicis," she announced, looking over her shoulder at the two other women. She turned back to Gentry and raised her chin, locking eyes with him. "You may find some use for us." She was already regretting this.

@chexmix@ananfal@nuttsnbolts

The steak in Paro's hands was still untouched. Instead, he stood in place with a distant gaze and barely perceptible smile, chewing on the emperor's words.

"Before ending their petty lives." His expression shrank and his mood stumbled again and again over the vitriol. In five words, the speech had switched from unity to spite and violence. The pair of swords at Paro's side reminded him that he must have known this was coming. He'd come with a life's worth of preparation and gathered steel, and yet... He shook his head and glanced over his shoulder at the golden sword on his back.

A midnight blue ribbon met his gaze instead -- literally. As the cloth nudged his eyes like an insistent Persian, the wide end of the tassel gingerly poured long-awaited sauce on his steak.

"Etan, what are you--?" The sword had agreed not to reveal his sentience unless he absolutely had to: possessed steel drew various kinds of suspicion. But before Paro could finish objecting, he realized the hall was nearly empty. Exclaiming under his breath, he took off running for the door.

Then, remembering the incredibly fine Phoenician dinnerware still in his hand, he jogged back to the table and set the plate down as softly as he could, grabbed his dinner in one hand, and dashed backwards toward the door again, spinning mid-step. As he tore at the steak with his teeth, he wished a long and glorious summer to the chefs, who had left it so tender that it fell apart in his mouth. Speed was of the essence.

Soldiers had already formed multiple platoons, lining up together in preparation. The tardy boy could only fall in with the nearest group, half a steak hanging from his teeth. He gulped and joined his hands behind the small of his back, still gripping his dinner.

"Paro of Leonias, reporting!" As he spoke, the blue handle of his sword unwrapped again, stuffing several bite-sized, fishy-smelling snacks into his pocket. Paro's eyes darted from the scarf's shenanigans to his fellow soldiers -- but if there were a time to let the secret out, this was probably it. "And...this is Etan. I promise you, he's better-trained than I am." He blinked. "I-in combat, I mean!"

@c3p-0h@ananfal@nuttsnbolts@chexmix

Eric's attention was suddenly caught in the center of the room, where intimidating soldiers lined up in unison. The emperor entered into the middle and made his way through. Mana, being quite short, desperately attempted to see over the soldiers but ultimately failed. It wasn't the first time she's seen emperor Yamamoto in person, but it was definitely the closest she's ever gotten. She politely bowed from habit as he sat himself on the throne. When he began speaking, she felt it was the perfect opportunity to finish up the roasted Bouffalant before Eric decided to change his mind. She set the empty plate aside while the emperor closed up his speech, and proceeded to exit the room.

Not even a second after he left, individuals throughout the room began grouping together and exiting. Geez, not wasting any time I see. Mana turned back toward Eric, who seemed lost in thought for a moment before turning back toward her.

"To answer your question from before, I'm not from here. I'm actually a native of Aurios...which just so happens to be where everyone is heading."

Mana blinked a few times. The way he said that last part inferred something. ... Is he asking to form a group? She placed a finger on her chin and tilted her head a bit. No no, I couldn't possibly be in the same group as this guy. He has Pokemon for crying out loud! What if this weird hostile manipulation thing happens to his Pokemon, and they end up killing me?! She glared slightly at Eric's Pokemon and turned back away. But it's not like there are many soldiers left in the room, and Eric is from Aurios after all. Realizing her thoughts had taken a while, and Eric hadn't said anything about forming a group yet, Mana decided to take the initiative.

"Listen, you! How about we form a group?" She didn't have to ask as loudly as they were conversing before from the distance considering the room was emptying out quickly. Mana cleared her throat and waited for a response. Her expression was fairly determined, she volunteered for this cause after all.

@RestlessComfort

Eric

By this time, there were very few people left inside the castle's walls. The air that was just filled with laughter and polite conversation had now been replaced with an eerie silence that slowly crept over the room. He felt a little alone, isolated from the populace, but Mana made him feel a bit more at ease. Thoughts began to circulate through his mind. Perhaps I should ask her to form a group with me? Would she say yes? Maybe she wouldn't...maybe she'd laugh in my face... Even with these thoughts that would normally detour him roaming free inside his head, he didn't feel so cut off with a new companion at his side. He let out a small sigh as Mana turned to face him.

She seemed uncomfortable and nervous about something. What's wrong? Did I frighten her again? Eric wondered to himself. As he took a closer look at her, he realized that her eyes were not in fact upon him, but upon his Pokemon. Does she not like my Pokemon? Eric asked himself. Her stare appeared malicious in nature, a mixture of hate and fear staining her pupils. Kyo and Sei exchanged a questioning look before Mana turned away and they returned their attention to her.

"Listen, you! How about we form a group?"

It surprised Eric that she took such initiative. He wanted to form a group too, but he wanted to bring it up gradually. She was so brash and direct! It was endearing and brought a smile to Eric's face.

"I would love too," he said softer then before. "I think we will be a great team!"

@Illusion

Gentry

"The Group Forms"

As Gentry was making all the necessary preparations for the journey, tightening straps on saddle bags and ensuring Salamence's comfort, a strong looking woman approached, exclaiming about his Absol, who jumped up skittishly and growled, at least until she saw the other Absol. At that point the pokemon jumped down off the dragon type and walked slowly towards the other of its kind, sniffing curiously. "sol?"

"Indeed, it is. I've never seen another in my life, most people believe them to bring terrible luck. I'm sure you've found this isn't the case at all." Gentry observed the girl carefully, she was completely decked out from head to foot with weaponry and had three powerful looking pokemon at her side. She was clearly prepared for the worst at this meeting.

"Gentry!!! We'll head west towards the coast and move up through Argent!"

Jin called, heading away from the castle and down the street. Gentry returned the wave and called back, "Meet us on the road outside the city!" Gentry wasn't so keen on heading up through Argent, but he wasn't about to suggest otherwise in the middle of the street. As far as he was concerned, the fewer people who knew where they were going the better. He still wasn't entirely trusting of the others gathered at the palace.

Then, in a sudden flash of light, two familiar figures appeared directly in the center of the group. It was none other than the phoenician warrior with her Gallade, as if his thoughts of mistrust materialized before his very eyes. Scizor was on the ready in a battle stance, and Gentry's hands gripped Salamence's reigns tightly. Absol had retreated from her counterpart and returned to her spot beside Gentry.

"Shu and Wu, soldiers of Phoenicis. You may find some use for us."

She was asking to join their group? Or, stating that she was joining rather.

"Shu and Wu... You've got some nerve asking to join our group." Scizor looked to Gentry for direction, but the warrior shook his head slightly, signaling the pokemon to stand down. "I suppose that's enough to merit some use." He didn't exactly like the idea, but he had seen her fight before, and she was capable of holding her own. Her partnership with Wu was somewhat of a marvel on the battlefield. There was also the old cliché about keeping your enemies close..

Before another word could be spoken, a man approached, carrying his dinner but also still eating it, drawing everyone's attention as he spoke.

"Paro of Leonias, reporting! And...this is Etan. I promise you, he's better-trained than I am. I-in combat, I mean!"

The young man seemed a bit clumsy and spat out bits of steak as he talked. This guy was a soldier of Leonias? He didn't carry himself like one, but he was armed like one. Gentry was slightly annoyed by his goofy demeanor, but noticed the pokemon he was referring to was his blade- a Honedge. Legends say the swords evolutionary line could sense bravery and leadership, and even served royalty. Though he didn't believe all the myths and legends regarding Pokemon- like the one about Absol- it was an impressive partner to have nonetheless.

"Alright, that makes four of us then. I'm Gentry of Leonias." He turned to Kasumi, who had not yet introduced herself. "You are welcome to join us and make five. This darkness is not an enemy you will want to face alone." He turned and looked to the rest of the group- they had amassed quite the traveling party in a short time, and most of them seemed like capable warriors. If they could all get along, it seemed like they stood as good a chance as anyone at getting to the bottom of the whole thing. But that was a big if. "Let's not waste any time. We're meeting our last party member on the road outside the city." With that, he pulled the reigns so that Salamence would turn to leave the courtyard. "We'll walk for now, Sal. We'll need all the energy we can save."

---

The group was just outside the city. They had traveled there in relative silence, but there would be plenty of time for small talk on the journey. They had stopped at a fork in the road; to the left was the road that led West to Argent, to the right was East to Leonias. Here they would wait for Jin before deciding exactly which path to take.

@ananfal@Nuttsnbolts@c3p-0h@densoro