[Lilac Meadow]

@Light Lord@Polaris North@Iatos@Shiny Keldeo
Looking around, Celty's brows furrowed as she carefully continued forward, following after the Totodile. "...If I recall correctly, I do believe I came this way when I ... came to town? I could be crazy, I dunno. Hopefully it's a Spinarak, otherwise we're in for a bit of trouble."

Ears twitched somewhat, as she heard a group ahead of them. Turning around, the Mawile gestured to the rest of the group, "The Riolu should be up ahead."

@Shiny Keldeo

Another bitter smirk crossed the Tyranitar's lips as he heard the Lucario's words, he slowly raised his left hand and tightened it slowly. When he did a couple of pebbles flew off the ground and floated around it and soon one very shiny one joined them from where it had been stuck in his armor, it was a small diamond yet of great monetary value. "We are all chidlren of this land." he said calmly as he let the diamond slowly land in his palm. "I fear nothing... if you and your friends turn against me I shall see their pelts hung from the town's boarders so that you may look upon their bloody caresses and remember that it was by your words they all died." he said calmly and then crushed the diamond in his palm into dust.

He let the dust pour into the sand of the ground, "You are insignificant... like this useless gem your value is mearly something that have been placed upon you. I have already walked the path of destruction, seen the end of all things... the rise and falls of leaders and their cities. " he said as he started walking again, he was still heading back into town and did not really care if his path for the moment aligned with the one of the Lucario. "Hold your friends close... or leave them behind... tomorrow their bodies may litter the ground. I am no judge" he stated as his path diverted away from the town center and towards the mountains.

"I know you have two children, a Family... they are part of the future of this world. I have not given up on it... I am mearly take the day as it come, battles or not. " he said as he headed over to the mountain. Once he reached it he started climbing its side... he didn't enter the cave nor the mystery dungeon, no instead he dug in and scaled the very side of it not caring if falling from the height he eventually would reach could kill him.

====



Eventually reaching the meadow, the Zorua was quick to look around and sense that something indeed was not right about this place. He could feel that it was a very familiar feeling yet a very remote one, he had been here to play many times in the past and now it was almost like he couldn't recognize the place. It made him a bit uneasy that he could get this feeling from somewhere so close to home that he used to visit. "Devon, do not let your guard down.... It might look beautiful still, but something is most definatly not right here. There's signs of struggle, and these webbings are not a good sign" he said as he carefully scanned the trees for possible opponents before looking towards the entrance.

He nodded to himself and looked to both Zaru and the Mawile, this time it felt a lot more comfortable with having her along. He was unsure of what they would have to expect and experience in such an situation could prove invaluble. He took a deep breath as he mentally prepared himself and then nodded "Alright. We should be extra careful, we have basically no information about this place in its current state, it seems the 'Mystery' effect have taken over this place somehow, I don't know how that happens and being the first ones to chart this dungeon leaves in the dark about possible dangers" he said as he got back in line. "Lead on Devon, Miss Celty please do stay close, I do not want to loose anyone in the mystery dungeon, if anyone get separated for any reason they should stay where they are and let the others come back to find them." he said as he smiled slightly to them before looking ahead as he got ready to meet whatever awaited them inside.

@Iatos@Light Lord@Ninian



Indeed, Devon was correct. It was a beautiful place. It wasn't technically one of the mystery dungeons that they should be wary of before. But now, something didn't settle well in Zaru's stomach. There were spider webs hanging from the trees. That was definitely unusual. "Hm... No, as far as I know, they didn't take home here." He replied to Devon's question. He was half-tempted to climb up one of the trees to see if there's anything he can find out but it would be a bad idea. They had to keep on moving if they want to get to Krissy quickly.

And another weird thing was the signs of struggle and multiple footprints on the ground and the drag marks. Obviously, this was where Krissy was taken and wherever the drag lead was probably where Krissy was right now. But whose tracks were these? He hasn't seen a lot of pokemon but he could see where Krissy's tracks where. "Whoever took Krissy seemed really desperate. Do you think they're deliberately holding her hostage to get another pokemon in the village?" He asked. It's a possibility. He's just guessing, that's all.

---

@floodtalon@Shiny Keldeo



The Haunter volunteered to go through the walls to see if there's anything worth reporting but it seems that the Bisharp was hesitant to let him go. True, splitting up seems like a bad idea given that this is the home of a legendary pokemon and all so it would be dangerous. Or rather, it should be. But ever since they got here, nothing has attempted to attack them. It was as if this place was empty. Very odd.

And so the Bisharp agreed to send out a scouting party which was him, Valentine and the Hippowdown. Drogo simply nodded before looking at the Haunter to lead the way. He was the one who suggested it after all. Now let's see what the Sky Tower had in store for them. Worst case scenario is that something else might've passed through here earlier and scared every pokemon away. But that doesn't seem likely. "Lead the way Valentine."

@Shiny Keldeo@Polaris North

Valentine nodded and began floating down one of the various hallways. He would make a stop motion with his hand every now and then and float through a wall to scout ahead. He would then come back and shake his head. After ten minutes of this he turned to Drago and Hippowdon and sighed. "There's nobody. The dungeon is completely empty, which is a statement I have never thought I would hear." Valentine scratched his head and pulled out a single coin, rolling it over his fingers.

"Either way, I found the stairway. Let's head over there and wait for the other group." Valentine then began to head towards the stairs, silently pondering the fate of the native Pokemon.

[Lilac Meadow]

@Ninian @Light Lord @Polaris North @Iatos
Rico was on guard now as his sister recovered from her phobia spell. When he heard voices and rustling behind them, he immediately moved to the rear, moving into his Counter stance. He scanned the area with his Aura (which wasn't very strong since he was still learning to control it). However, what he sensed wasn't an enemy. He opened his eyes and looked down the path, seeing Zaru, Milton, Celty, and Devon. "Phew, it's just you guys. I thought we might have been getting flanked or something."

He looked around, making sure there was no one else in the area. He saw none, and didn't exactly feel anything hostile nearby, but he didn't relax. His sister was still semi-freaking out. "No... no spider... brave... have to go..." She couldn't even form a proper sentence at the moment. Her friends were around her, trying to comfort her and help her, but it wasn't really working.

[Sky Tower]

@floodtalon @Polaris North
"So there isn't anyone here... except the great Lord of the Skies up top there I'll bet. Wonder what happened to all the guards..." Said Bisharp, looking around inside the massive cloud tower. "Who cares? Makes it easier for us to make it to the top!" Said the Machamp. "Hmm, Someone Powerful was here, recently." Said Beartic, looking at a scorch mark that had somehow remained on the cloud walls.

Suddenly a loud voice boomed through the tower. "So, you have returned, and have brought more! Has slaughtering my guards and bringing chaos to my domain not satisfied your appetite, you monster?! So be it. I await your arrival, you trespassers, on the top floor, where you will meet your end by my hands!"

On the floor with Valentine and Drago, Hippowdon simply looked upwards. "Well, he knows we're here now. No sense in being sneaky anymore I guess." He said with a grumble, moving forward up the next flight of stairs.

[Infinity Mountain Peak]

@Iatos
It had been about an hour since they had departed, and The Master was growing impatient. Then he felt a presence below him. A strong presence. He reached out with his Psychic Power and felt into his mind, his heart. Such darkness he felt, emotions twisting and turning, but overall being ignored. He felt like one who had looked death in the eyes, and spat into them. He liked this...

He shot a telepathic message to this being. "You. You trespass on my current domain. Leave now, or I cannot tell you what will happen to you." He partially meant what he said, but more it was a test, to see if he would stop and turn back, or continue on undaunted. If he turned back, then he was not worth his time. If he continued on, he may prove to be a valuable asset.

@Shiny Keldeo

As the Tyranitar climbed the side of the mountain he sensed a very, very faint presence. It was something scratching on his mind yet he couldn't make much sense of it, without being effected bby the miracle eye psychic abilities didn't affect him yet the Taillow on his still sitting on his shoulder again brought him up to speed on what was said to him. He didn't flinch as he kept going, he had already decided to climb to the very top and he would continue to do so even if the mountain itself turned against him. He were yet in no rush, and continued at the same pace which was still probably faster than going through the mystery dungeon and dealing with its dangers one by one. Not that climbing the outside was without dangers, a small pebble falling from the top could easily start a landslide of bigger and bigger rocks.

Yet the Tyranitar pressed on no matter how the mountain twisted and turned. Eventually he would reach the top and bring himself over it, he let out a sigh and a snort as he looked around and saw the huge boulder blocking the regular path. Eventually his eyes fell into the emptiness of the place, yet he suspected that there indeed was someone here even if he could not see or sense them at the moment. "I assume you'r the'Big Swinger' around here" he said calmly without much hint of what he truly meant by it. Yet it was neither meant as a compliment nor an insult, instead it was the words of someone who at the moment spoke to someone with equally much respect as they demanded, a master speaking to a master... or perhaps a king to a king. "You've done enough for now... return to the village and keep an eye on things, I send for you once I've finished with my business" he said as he glanced to the Tailow on his shoulder.

It gave him a graceful bow before it chirped as it flew off, spread its wings to the winds and glided back to Valiant village. The Tyranitar's attention was then brought back to the Psychic type. "If you intend to continue to use your psychic abilities, I suggest using 'miracle eye' first if you know it... I'm getting quite bad reception here, given my... immunity." He said knowing fully well that it was likely that a Psychic user that was the boss of somewhere either knew Miracle eye, or other moves that could affect Dark types. Yet to the Tyranitar it made little difference, he didn't fear having his immunity to psychic abilities removed after all... like he didn't really fear anything.

=====



He thought about what Zaru replied when he heard the chimchar's words, was it possible that someone kidnapped someone because they needed too?.. or was it that they just didn't expect how much resistance the pokémon they abducted could put up in desperation?. It was still unsettling that one of his friends had been kidnapped in a place they thought was safe. Now he knew he would never think of the place the same way, it was the innocence of the place had been stripped away and now only the bad feeling remained. Yet he kept aware of their surroundings and delt with threaths with caution.

When he suddenly heard Rico's voice ahead he glanced past his friends and then hurried closer on the side of them into the clearing. "Oh hey Guys' didn't think we would catch up so quickly... " he said and then saw Lulu making his heart drop, was she injured again?... he rushed up to her past the others and looked at her. "LU, Lu?... are you injured?... " he asked worried as he quickly wrapped his paws around her, he didn't know how he suddenly could just disregard that the others waw him, but seeing her unwell and knowing what had happened before when he had failed to be there for her he just felt really worried. He blushed as he nuzzled her but at the same time didn't just want to let go when she seemed in shock. He was not above giving anyone who made fun of him or Lulu because of it a beating.

"... Lu, I'm here now... I will protect you. " he said and then froze as he felt a cold stare in his back. He gently let go of her and spun around. "Who's there?... show yourself!" he shouted into the forest. It was silent for a few moment, yet then a pair of eyes lit up in the dark, then two others nearby. The Zorua quickly got into his battle stance, standing between them and Lulu.

"Ooh, so Scary... The fox is growling at us. " A Voice said before a siluette appeared and slowly appraoched until a Shinx stepped out of the bushes followed by a Meowth and a Purrloin. "Lurriefax... Jinxiette, and Mejwl, what are you doing here?" he said as his eyes narrowed to the Trio, a Rivalry glance exchanged between him and the Shinx. The Trio was team 'Cat's Grace' Made up by Tzerah's kid Lurrie who was not very sweet when her mother was not around. The Liepard called Jinxie who from day one had decided to hate Rico and Lulu becuse they were Cannines or something, and the Meowth Mejwl of course who backed the other two up in all they thought and wanted.

The Trio laughed among themselves and Lurrie kept shooting taunting gazes towards the Zorua, "Nothing you need to wear your brain out about... besides we don't have time for slowpokes like you... we're gona go rescue Kristy and reap the reward way before you guys" Lurriefax said in a cocky fashion mocking them at any oppertunity. "Hey... there's no race. Its just-..." the Zorua resorted before he was inerrupted, "Spoken like a looooser~ well see you around slow-poke's " Shinx called before dashing on ahead. The other two of the Trio exchanged glances, mostly mocking ones... maybe some words was said as well.

The Zorua bit his lips as he drowned the urge to chase after them, he knew it was what they wanted... they wanted to split them up so they would end up in trouble, or taunt them into making mistakes. Not all kids in the village was of course friendly like themselves. He returned to check on Lulu afterwards.

[Lilac Meadow]

@Iatos@Shiny Keldeo@Polaris North@Ninian

Devon checked around at the trees a bit more, before shaking his head and continuing leading the group through the meadow. It wasn't long before Zaru spoke up. Guessing that perhaps, Krissy was taken to be bait to lure someone else from the village into the meadow. The Totodile's eyes went wide as he looked back over his shoulder at the quizzical Chimchar. "Jeez I hope not. Whoever this Pokémon is that took Krissy away is pretty low, but if it turns out they were using her as bait to hurt even more villagers, that's mega low."

The determined Water-type refaced the path in front of him, soon hearing the familiar voice of Rico. Milton ran ahead, but it wasn't long until Devon and the others were rejoined with the Riolu twins and the other village children. Devon himself grinned and waved to the group. "Hey Rico. We just thought we'd come out and back you guys up in case things went south. You all ok?"

His question was pretty much answered for him when he spotted Lulu, standing in the middle of all of her other friends shaking and mumbling about her obvious fear of the creatures that may possibly reside in the meadow. Devon attempted to smile as the shivering Emanation Pokémon that was now being hugged by Milton. "Hang in there Lulu. You gotta stay tough. Krissy's counting on you, and you can't help her if you get scared now. You can do this."

It was then that the trio of a Shinx, Meowth, and Purrloin showed up, speaking like the entire mission to go rescue the lost young Pokémon was nothing more than some sort of competition to get a reward? It didn't really make sense to Devon, at all. Groaning as the so called team 'Cat's Grace' left them the oddly colored Totodile called ahead with eyes narrowed at the path they took. "Jerks! This isn't competitive! This is about saving someone's life! There is no reward!"

Stomping his foot on the ground, Devon let off a drawn out sigh before reaching back behind him and adjusting his bag. "Ugh. Hate those guys already. We should keep moving though, if everyone's up to it?"

@Iatos@Light Lord@Ninian



"I hope it's not the reason too." Zaru mumbled as they continued walking, mind going through multiple scenarios on how Krissy was possibly kidnapped. She was outnumbered, that's for sure, but by what pokemon? That's the main problem here. If they didn't know who their opponents were, how would they know how to beat them? Guess they'll have to think of a plan on the spot. "But there are some really bad pokemon in this world." Sad but true. It was completely possible that that was the reason. But hopefully, it isn't.

Voices. There were voices coming from the other side. Zaru tensed up, ready for battle. That was, until he heard that it was actually Rico and not a hostile pokemon. He quickly relaxed and waved at them as he proceeded to walk. He let the others do the talking and stuff. His eyes trailed to Lulu who was in some sort of panic, mumbling something about spiders and being brave. He looked around. True, the spider webs were almost everywhere. Lulu was probably scared of those spider pokemon who might've made their nest here. Although he made no move to comfort the distressed Riolu, unfortunately, he wasn't very good at that.

More rustling sounds and Milton was on a battle stance. The Chimchar would've probably followed up but the trio already made their appearance. Ah, it was Cat's Grace. It was that little group who probably has little feuds with some of the pokemon he was with. Lurrie, Jinxie, Mejwl... He personally haven't gotten into any fights with any of them nor is there any grudge of sorts. They might be rude but they haven't done anything to them. It seems they think this is a sort of competition to see who gets to Krissy and save her first, they even mispronounced her name for some reason. However, he did wave at the Meowth, Mejwl, someone he had spoken to at some point in his stay at the village. They were on... friendly terms one could say. It was then that the three dashed out.

Zaru looked at Devon. "Devon, don't let it get to you. It only means they're getting on your nerves and that would be a victory for them." He told the Totodile. He then looked back at where the trio disappeared to. "I'm good to go." He replied.

---

@floodtalon@Shiny Keldeo



"Got it." Drogo said as Valentine reported back what he had saw. So the dungeon seriously was empty huh? That was very weird and something he never thought he would hear. It would probably mean there are no items around that they could pick up too. Unfortunate.

He then looked upwards, towards where the sound was coming from. It was undeniably Rayquaza. So someone was here and slaughtered every pokemon inside the dungeon besides the legendary pokemon. Now that is weird. And he said that someone came back, but none of them have been here before as far as he knew. He then thought back. Maybe the Master had something to do with it or Rayquaza was just mistaken. Either way, it meant getting the job done faster which is good. Hopefully, they're going to fare well against him.

"Yeah, let's hurry up. I think he might be a little pissed off." He said before ascending the stairs as well. He began to think of tactics he might use. Hit and Run might be better, if he could dodge Rayquaza's attacks and if the others provide adequate distractions. He would probably be using Dragon Breath a lot if he wanted to keep his distance. Stay away from his line of vision too. Yeah, that would probably be best. Hopefully.

[Lilac Meadow]

@Iatos @Polaris North @Light Lord @Ninian
Cat's Grace... he just couldn't understand why they were like that. He looked over to the concerned group behind him. "Lulu's not hurt, at least, not physically... She's completely afraid of Pokemon like Galvantula and Ariados..." He stopped, moving out of earshot of Lulu to tell the rest. "It wasn't too long ago, an Ariados broke into the Guild trying to find some of our rumored treasure. He scared poor Lulu half to death, then dad came in and that creep ended up locked up for months. But that scare he gave her that night... she's never gotten over it. It might be too much for her..."

Then they heard a scream, a very familiar scream. "That was Krissy!" Said Rico, rushing forward. He knelt down by his sister, who had finally stopped shaking when she heard the scream. "Lulu, you don't have to go on if you don't want to, I know..." His sister stood up tall. Where fear had been now there were flames of anger. "Those... those... creeps better not have laid a single paw on Krissy!" She yelled, looking over to her brother. "Fear or no fear, Krissy needs my help. I'm not running away, and that's that." She said with a steady and strong voice.

Rico smiled and turned to the rest of them. "That's why you don't mess with her friends." Lulu looked around her, so many of her friends, good friends, best friends, all had tried to comfort her. She would have been on the verge of tears if the flames in her eyes hadn't dried them up. "You guys are the best, thanks. Now let's go find Krissy!"

[Lilac Meadow]

@Iatos
He'd seen that Shinx before, that was Tzerah's kid. Last time he'd seen him was when he was barely learning how to walk, how could he have gone so south so fast? The way he treated the other kids, the way they made a joke of a rescue... he wouldn't stand for it. So, he wouldn't. He'd give those little brats a good scare. He'd also tell Spirit about that conversation, and have him rethink their team. In a blink of an eye, he was gone. He had moved into the bushes, just ahead of the group.

When he heard them approaching, he fired off a quick Night Slash in their general direction. He made sure to make it look like it was coming right at them, but made sure it was off enough to miss them even if they couldn't dodge in time. He then spoke in a low, demonish voice that he used to tell ghost stories to little kids. "You Kids don't know what you're getting into, go home to your mamas while you still have a chance." Then, like that, he vanished again. He reappeared back where he had began, watching the others carefully from afar.

[Infinity Mountain Peak]

@Iatos
He chuckled softly. He had no need of a pitiful move like Miracle Eye to speak to him. Granted he hadn't expected the resistance to be so strong, but with a flick of his mind, immunity was a thing of the past. "You were bold to come here, even after being warned away. I must ask why you were so compelled to come to a place where you had no business. It wasn't... that you wanted to battle with me was it?"

He raised his hand still hidden from view, and a powerful psychic aura surrounded the Tyranitar. It paralyzed him, leaving him defenseless, as he lifted him into the air with great ease. He considered tossing him around like a ragdoll, but that would be overkill. Instead he let him float there, unable to move anything but his mouth's words. "You intrigue me, behemoth. I should wonder why you didn't receive my message before. You would have been one of the most powerful to arrive, but seeing the strength of your resistance impressed me. But now... what to do with you..."

[Sky Tower]

@floodtalon @Polaris North
The group climbed higher and higher, finding no Pokemon but signs of, not a battle, but an all out war. "Jeez, if that Master guy did all this, why do you think he's making us go after the boss?" Asked the Machamp, climbing up to the next floor. "Probably couldn't finish the job. Even super powerful guys like that have limits, maybe he was worn out from the hoard. Anyway, I find it easier not to question an employer such as this. Let's just get this job done."

Suddenly the Bisharp stopped, looking up the next set of cloud stairs. There wasn't another room there... it was sky. This was it, this was where Rayquaza was. "This could be it, boys. Let's let the others catch up, then we go in full force. Remember the plan." The two nodded, staying on their guard as they waited for the others.

The Hippowdon had taken the lead, growing impatient of their slow progress. He finally turned a corner to find the rest of their team waiting at the exit. He took this as they were ready. He said nothing, but moved over to them.

@Shiny Keldeo

The tyranitar didn't really blink as the psychic power wrapped around him and lifted him into the air, he cared little if this being attempted to seem superior. Yet as the wind around them turned he simply smirked, sand whipped up once more and soon wrapped around them too thick to be able to see through and strong enough to damage any pokémon that had no immunity to it. It was the 'Sand stream' ability kicking in once more, being 'paralyzed' in the air the Tyranitar let it loose breaking the psychic connection to his body and allowing it to drop back to the ground, it was after all always good to have a ace up ones sleeve. Now the master would need to come closer if he wanted to use his powers on him as the thick sand would make it near impossible to get to him directly.

"Tsk... If I had mearly wanted a battle, I would have leveled the mountain rather than to waste my time climbing up to here." he responded as the sand still whipped around them. "So do you intend to try to stay concealed and hope that I do not know where your are?... or do you actually dare to show yourself?. I've already gone so far as to enter this place, if you have no will to speak to me face to face my business here are concluded" he replied as he crossed his arms. So far this being was not very amusing, and Kaiser did not intend to play this 'game' for longer than he felt like it.

He chuckled lowly "As to the reason why?... Simple. I have bad reception, places to go to... and business to conclude. I go where I want too, when I want too." he replied and snorted "Besides, I am not looking for any reward. Nothing you have could bribe me. I would fight simply because I want too, If I get to fight Legends it's even better. " he said calmly into the roaring sandstorm.

==


@Light Lord@Polaris North

He felt happy that Lulu was snapping back too it, even if it was by anger he was glad that she was good enough to go. Of course it would suck to have to leave people behind to return with her, and now they could go together again which was great. He felt her anger and nodded as he looked to the others, "Alright, I'm ready...Lets Save Our friend" he said and got back to his place in the line which was last still, yet a very important spot. He knew Devon would still need to set the pace and that danger could still lurk up ahead. He didn't let the words of Cat's Grace bother him for long, he was quick to get over them by now as he still had other things to focus on, and in a way he could also see it from their point of view... perhaps they just wanted to be friends, but didn't know how to fit into their large group.

Most of his thoughts was still focused on Lulu, while some were focused on Krissy and her rescue. It was to the point he was glad he followed someone as he couldn't quite focus on what way to go... at least not until he thought he heard another sound and stopped to look back. It was only the wind... and he sighed as he kept his eyes peered behind as he followed the rest, after all it was his job to spot ambushes from behind.
=====


Members:
Lurriefax the Shinx.
Jinxiette the Purrloin.
Mejwl the Meowth.

The Trio of Female feline's continued on after their exchange with the others, they hurried ahead to keep their gained distance up yet was very careful so that none would get needlessly hurt. They scouted for traps and stayed wary as they could still be attacked at any time their spirit was quite high as they had had their fun with the others, yet they knew that saving Krissy was very important. "Dodge right now!" Lurrie suddenly called as she bounced right with the other two quickly following as the night slash zoomed past them. The other two lookid worried for a second until they spotted the determination that still lingered in their leader as they got back to the path. "And I suppose you do... Uncle Omen?..." Lurrie called back ahead, she recognized his demonic voice, she had heard it before when he had told her and other kids ghost stories and they had also seen him enter with the others.

"What should we do Lurrie?... if Omen Tattle, we could get in trouble" Jinxie asked with a slightly worried tone. The Shinx however shook her head slowly. "We will finish the Mission of courese. Let Omen believe what he want. Come, we're wasting time" she called ahead and the trio went on, trying to get to where Krissy was before the others.

[Lilac Meadow]

@Light Lord@Polaris North@Iatos@Shiny Keldeo
As she had promised, Celty stayed in the background, allowing the children to handle their own problems. However, Lulu's fear and the trio of rude felines was beginning to leave a bad taste in the Mawile's mouth.

"...We should probably just go. Ignore the other kids, I would be surprised if they made it that far with that attitude. Lulu. If you would like, I can follow you closely."

[Lilac Meadow]

@Iatos@Shiny Keldeo@Polaris North@Ninian
Devon breathed heavily out of his nostrils, shaking his head at Zaru's reminder as his deep brown eyes went to the treetops. "Yeah I know. I'll keep my cool. Let's just keep moving."

The shrill scream echoed through the meadow, causing the little Totodile's head to snap towards the direction of the clearly terrified source of the scream. "Crap! That was her right!?" Rico confirmed his suspicions pretty quickly. And it looked like Lulu was back in action after the cry of her friend brought her out of hysterics. When the Riolu girl spoke with her regained confidence, Devon displayed and toothy snapped his claws. "That's the spirit Lulu! You can do this! These creeps ain't nothing compared to you!"

When thanked, the turned human simply gave the Fighting-type a thumb up. Everyone seemed to be in agreement to move on, so Devon did just that. With a flick of his wrist the Totodile lead the group onward into the meadow. "Let's rock guys!"

@Iatos@Light Lord@Ninian



Zaru listened intently as Rico recounted the tale that happened way back that caused Lulu to be afraid of spider pokemon. Well, that certainly would be traumatizing. Poor Lulu. Good thing Spirit managed to lock it up for a few months.

A scream pierced the air and Zaru looked around, trying to determine where it came from. Bingo, to that direction. He then looked back at the group to see that Lulu had recovered and she's ready for action. It's amazing how a friend in danger could make someone face their fear. "Alright Lulu, glad to have you back." He said with a smirk.

He then looked at Devon. Without a single word, he followed. They had a much bigger group this time, probably not the best idea considering that the normal group should be 3, at most 4, but to heck with it, this wasn't much of a dungeon anyway. If they're up against bug pokemon, then he and the Riolu twins would have the upper hand. They had type advantage on their side. They probably won't get too outnumbered... hopefully.

---

@floodtalon@Shiny Keldeo



The Hippowdon had taken the lead and Drogo started flying towards the next group before landing behind them. He looked around. So the next one was the last flight of stairs. It would be the top of the Sky Tower where Rayquaza was waiting eh? He was probably prepping himself up for battle. Drogo was mildly prepared for this. Hopefully all those reviver seeds/herbs wouldn't run out before they could defeat said legendary pokemon.

@Shiny Keldeo@Polaris North

Valentine followed the Hippowdon and Drago with a frown marrying his face. Rayquaza claimed that all of his minions were dead, but he wasn't going to take its word at face value. It could be trying to trick everyone by having all the minions just gather on the second floor. But as they ascended, there was truly nobody around. A jarring experience really, Valentine felt more unnerved by such a quiet dungeon than he did when in a dungeon with powerful Pokemon. It just felt... wrong.

Finally they caught up with the other team after Hippowdon rushed ahead. A bad move really, the only reason he wasn't punished for his mistake was because the dungeon was empty. He would've been slaughtered otherwise. Valentine formed a Shadow Ball in his hand, the other hand rolling a coin over its knuckles out of nervousness. "If it makes anyone feel any better, death isn't the end." Valentine chuckled at his joke and put the coin away. This was a job he was going to need to focus on completely.

[Lilac Meadow]

@Ninian @Light Lord @Iatos @Polaris North
Lulu nodded her head, and looked forward with determination in her posture. She motioned with her hand, telling the group to move forward slowly. The two had taken up learning different hand signals so as to avoid talking during a delicate situation. And this could be as delicate as it could get. They were up against an unknown, and there was most likely a hostage involved.

They made their way through the flowers, not along the main paths as they usually would. They needed the element of surprise on their side. They soon approached the clearing where the water pool was. Rico motioned for the group to stop, and took a peek out of the flowers. He saw webbing everywhere, if it wasn't clear that there were spider Pokemon here it was now. Then he saw Krissy, tied up in webbing over at the base of a tree. As much as he wanted to race out there and grab her right now, it was too quiet. There was no one around.

[Lilac Meadow]

@Iatos
They'd done it now... oh they'd done it now... they'd basically kidnapped a local kid, it wouldn't be long until local teams would swoop down upon them. In fact, they already had their scouts report a team on the move already. "Cat's Grace" They'd heard it called, they could be trouble. So, naturally, they went to stop them. They took the majority of their group, leaving a few behind to watch the base camp. Ten Spinarak, four Galvantula, and one massive Ariados, obviously the leader. He caught sight of them soon, the movement in the brush. On his command, the group fired webbing all over the area, there was no dodging the barrage.

The group went down, finding the group to be... "More kids?! And we thought they were a threat? Well... looks like today ain't your lucky day, kiddos. Maybe you should learn to stay out of the big leagues. This is the turf of the Wild Webs Gang, and you're trespassing." He chuckled as his group surrounded the young team.

[Sky Tower]

@floodtalon @Polaris North
Bisharp scowled at Valentine's comment. "I get you're trying to lighten the mood, but now really isn't the best time for jokes. This could be the fight of our lives, if not the fight that ends it. Once we go up these steps, there's no going back. We can't lose focus. Understood?" Hippowdon, Beartic, and Machamp nodded, getting into position. Once Drago and Valentine got into position, they would move in.

[Infinity Mountain Peak]

@Iatos
This was an interesting character no doubt. He had perfect control over his Sand Stream ability, but as if that would change anything. He heavily doubted the extent of his power. A mere wave of his hand and he had practically nullified his Ability, and the sandstorm dissipated. "You truly are an interesting Pokemon. But... battle legends you say... interesting... I may have a job or two for you if that is the case. You see, I have already sent a team to the Sky Tower to battle the Sky Dragon Rayquaza. If they fail, I will go there myself. You can accompany me if you want. Otherwise, the only thing I can offer you is a secure place for the future."

He still didn't reveal himself yet, he didn't want to be recognized yet. "And, if we were to do combat, you would undoubtedly lose, I'm sorry to say. Type advantages, pure power, strategy, that would have no effect on me. I once waged a war across this world, battling and defeating what was once known as the Legendary Council. The very force that governed our world, that still governs it. I faced Arceus himself, and he fell like the rest. Only one has ever defeated me... but he is not a factor, not anymore." He monologued, reminiscing of a time long forgotten. "This was centuries ago, but now I have returned to rebuild what should have been mine. So, I ask you again, will you join my quest, or be doomed like the rest of this broken world?" This was his ultimatum. Take it, or leave it.

[Lilac Meadow]

@Iatos@Shiny Keldeo@Polaris North@Ninian
Devon crept through the flower field silently. Attempting to make as little noise as possible by holding his bag steady and keeping his breathing slow. It wasn't long until Rico held up a halting paw and poked his face out of the thick purple plants. Devon stopped in his tracks, only to get curious and edge next to Rico. The Totodile poked his snout of the wall of flowers as well, eyes scanning across the clearing and spotting nothing except for the trapped Kirlia. That didn't seem right. The changed humans head drifted over to the Riolu next to him as he let out a few short whispers. "They probably got guards in there waiting to ambush us huh? What should we do? Maybe we could throw a rock or something? Try to lure them out of hiding?" Turning slightly to look over his shoulder at the rest of the group he frowned. "Unless anyone else has an idea? What do you guys got?"

[Lilac Meadow]

@Light Lord@Polaris North@Iatos@Shiny Keldeo
Pressing on as quietly as she could manage, Celty followed behind the children. Once they reached the Kirlia, Devon began discussing their options.

The Mawile decided it was time for her to speak up, "...I could use myself as bait. I am resilient, with a natural resistance to Bug-type attacks."

[Lilac Meadow]

@Iatos@Shiny Keldeo@Polaris North@Ninian
Celty's plan didn't exactly seem to sit well with the Totodile. Devon giving her a slack jawed look. "No way. You're not gonna use yourself as bait. No one is. Does anyone else have any other ideas?"

@Iatos@Light Lord@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo



They started walking once more until they finally reached the clearing. The others started peeking through the flowers but he stayed back. They mentioned that there might be a guard or something. Alright, so Krissy's definitely there and that no one was in sight. He decided to peek through the flowers and indeed, he was right.

He looked at Celty. It was a nice plan and Devon quickly said no. "It might be the best way. I'll go with her as well. Seeing as I have a type advantage over these bug types and I'm in my natural element." He said before gesturing at the trees. They might have webbing everywhere but he could easily avoid those or burn it later on. "While we're distracting them, you guys could swoop in, save Krissy and we'll get out of here." It was a good idea. There are probably not that many guards out there, if any at all, given that they couldn't see anyone.

---

@floodtalon@Shiny Keldeo



He smiled at Valentine's joke. Lightening the mood was a good thing. This might possibly be their last battle, and if they're too tense. Well, Drogo doesn't fight like that. He quickly got into position though. He took a deep breath and let it out. He looked forward to the time where they'd get the reward. It'll probably be the only thing he'll think of looking forward to after a while.

@Shiny Keldeo@Polaris North

Valentine shook his head at the Bisharp's criticism. He wasn't a big fan of uptight Pokemon like that, they tended to get on his nerves real fast. A smirk appeared on Valentine's face when he saw Drogo smile though. Valentine got into position and turned his gaze back to Bisharp. "Sure, whatever. Just make sure to do your part and I'll make sure to do mine." As he finished this statement he clenched the hand holding the Shadow Ball, but not tight enough to destroy it. Just enough to condense it. This was going to be a very interesting job to say the least.