[Glyph's Guild - Guildmaster's Office]

@Ninian
"Thank you all for joining us everyone. This meeting is very important, lives hang in the balance of what is soon to come, so please, pay close attention."

A large crowd of emblemed Pokémon stood tall and at attention before the stern faced Flygon. All of their eyes steadily focused on their Guildmaster as he took and deep breath, placed his arms behind his back, and bore his domed gaze into the collection of veteran Explorers. "Though it has remained relatively secretive save for a few vague rumors, I can confirm that the Sol Sibyl has indeed spoken another prophecy. One, that predicts that the dungeon dwelling Pokémon all around the world will rise up under a lone Legendary Pokémon, and cloak the world in shadow."

Gasps and whispers tore through the room like a wild fire, a Midnight Form Lycanroc raised up a paw and spoke above the hushed chatter. "If this is really on a world ending scale, shouldn't one of those.....Whadda ya call those guys, show up and stop it?" Glancing around at the confused Pokémon around him, the Rock-type scratched his mane before looking back at Glyph. "Uh....You what I mean right Guildmaster?"

Nodding his head, the Flygon bit his lip. "Yes, I know what you mean Roco. The one you're thinking of is called a 'human'. A very rare creature that is suspected to be from a completely different world than our own. They're known for mysteriously appearing whenever our world is on the brink of destruction, and preventing that fate. This time is no different than the last. One of our new recruits, the Totodile named Devon, is that human. Thus is the reason why such a young Pokémon is here training at our Guild."

Clearing his throat and coughing a bit, Glyph brought a clawed hand to his face for a moment. His wings fluttering as he put his hand back behind him. "Now, while I have strong faith in Devon and his team mates success in defeating this rogue revolutionist, they alone should not be the ones to bare all of the work. We are talking about what could very well be warfare on a global scale, so we as Explorers, as Guild members, as citizens of Folio town and residents of the Sand Continent, must be united and prepared for the worst. Myself and Robel have been discussing plans to protect the civilians, and you all are going to play a vital role in them."

Looking over to the yellow reptile standing near his desk, the Dragon spoke softly. "Robel, do you wish to explain to our members what we have come up with?"

[Glyph's Guild]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
When asked if the new Team was ready for the Guild's specialized training, the Poliwrath crossed his arms and let Ember and Selena speak their minds, before 'grinning' at Fuse. "Course I'm sure. I wouldn't be making them do it if I didn't think they'd be able to. These kids got some fight in em, that's for sure."

Devon's bark colored gaze stared at the rare herb as it was offered to Selena, smiling at the nice gesture. "Nice. That sounds pretty useful. Thanks Raiden."

A toothy grin spread across the heavily scared Feraligatr's maw as the shy Bayleef took the bottle, and everyone expressed their thanks. "You're welcome. You should save that, only use it during an emergency alright?" After he said this, the large gator glanced at the visibly disturbed Kirlia for a moment, before standing back up and clipping his bag closed.

Lilisette spoke up and asked about where they should procure supplies for the mission ahead, and Brick pointed out the large door of the main hall. "The Kecleon brothers own a general store in the Town Square. We can buy everything we'll need from them."

Putting a hand on his hip, Raiden looked down at the members of Team Horizon again and exhaled. "Right, I should let you guys get back to that. I need to go see Pyrrha, so I'll see you guys later." Turning around with the speed and grace of a tank, the towering Water-type smiled at the Explorers before walking off down the hall.

Once Raiden was gone, Devon hopped forwards, one of the apples in the basket on his head bouncing around as he strolled towards the doors. "Alright, we're all excited, so let's go find that shop!"

Brick rolled his shoulders, following after the bandaged Totodile and clearing his throat. "After, you get checked up by Rhys, Totocrisp."

Slowing his stride, Devon deflated a bit as he looked back and sighed. "Oh. Yeah. Forgot about that."

[Glyph's Guild - Guild Member's Quarters]

@Ninian
The fully evolved Big Jaw Pokémon quietly wandered the hall of the Guild Member's Quarters, the happy smile that had been on his maw during the conversation with Team Horizon replaced with a slight frown. His head stayed turned towards the wall beside him as his orange eyes dully stared into the many different rooms that he passed by. Eventually, he heard familiar voices coming from one of the oncoming doorways. Stopping just outside of it, the gator sighed and put on another smile, before knocking on the edge of the oak wood frame. "Hey, is it alright if I come in? It's Raiden."

[Sandy Cave - F6]

@MankeyMankey
When she answered his question, the Delphox put a paw to his maw, "Is that right? Well, I wouldn't say I come here often anymore. I'm sure by the time you decided to settle in, I was already gone." Upon spotting the floor's exit a straight shot away, he began to head towards it. "I've been traveling for a while. Actually, I've only recently returned to the Sand Continent. It was after that strange vision that I decided to come back."

[Sandy Cave - F5]
Once on the next floor, he turned to the Skitty, "Might I ask, how well do you take traveling across the desert? There's a village that's somewhat of a halfway point between here and Folio, if you'd like to rest. I'm sure we'll get to our destination before the feast, so don't worry about that."

[Sandy Cave - F6]

@Ninian

"Well, I haven't exactly settled in yet~ It's always hectic around here... I just hang around for the food... and the excitement. Maybe some day I'll look for a place to permanently call home." Piper replied before glancing over to the floor's exit. "Oh boy, five more to go..." She let out an exasperated sigh and trotted besides him, heading upstairs to the next floor.

[Sandy Cave - F5]
Pausing as Alodi asked his question, she looked up at him with a sweet smile. "Oh, I can do that just fine, buttttt... I'd prefer the little break in between sooo as long as you're correct about not missing the feast, I guess it sounds like a plan!"

[Glyph's Guild - Guildmaster's Office]

@Light Lord@Shiny Keldeo
Once called upon, the Heliolisk took a few steps forward. "Certainly. An evacuation of the residential districts is in effect starting today. We have approximately a week to carry this out, though the sooner it's completed, the better. Unfortunately, it is not feasible to send everyone to Sahra Town, and as such the merchant town of Gerudo will have to do. I have already spoke with them, and they have agreed to set up enough tents to support our population. Sahra Town has stated they will accept any and all refugees, however we simply do not have the manpower to escort our citizens such a great distance. If they are capable of making the journey on their own, then it's suggested they do so."

Averting his gaze, the Heliolisk paused for a moment before continuing, "For those who refuse to evacuate, we have prepared quarters for them at the guild, however it is limited. If they do not comply, and insist on staying in their homes, there is little we can do for them. When the time comes, we will need to fortify the entrance to the trunk. A blockade will be created in three days time. After that period, the only way to leave Folio will be via flight." Taking a breath, he continued, "Now, this evacuation will only last until the fighting ceases. After that, I urge our citizens to return immediately."

Glancing at Glyph for a moment, his gaze then returned to the crowd before him. "Once Folio is deemed safe, we will be taking in the merchants of Gerudo, for dwelling in the open will become increasingly dangerous as time goes on. It also might be necessary for us to send a contingent of guild members to Sahra Town to help defend the largest population of civilized Pokémon on the Sand Continent."

"Those who are not evacuating citizens will be sent to nearby dungeons to recruit as many willing Pokémon as you can. We will need reinforcements if we are to get through this fight unscathed." Turning to address Glyph, Robel spoke, "Is there anything else you would like for me to cover?"

[Glyph's Guild - Guild Member's Quarters]

@Light Lord
"Raiden...! Ah, yes, please do come in." In a small hurry, the Gardevoir made her way towards the door, opening it a crack and sticking her head out for a brief few moments before fully opening the door. "It's so lovely to see you again!"

[Altepa Desert - Rabao Spring]

@MankeyMankey
Once out of the dungeon, the duo made their way to a small oasis outpost in the middle of the Altepa Desert. Knelt before the spring, Alodi began drinking from it, cupping water in his paws. After a few repititions of the motion, he stood up and turned to Piper with a smile. With a paw, he gestured to a large tent across the water, "I believe they sell food there. I would be willing to get us both something to eat, if you're hungry. There's still quite a ways before we reach the nearest town." Concern creasing his brow, the Delphox gave the Normal-type a look over. "I haven't asked, how are you holding up?"

[Altepa Desert - Rabao Spring]

@Ninian

The journey out of the dungeon was nothing compared to the trek through the hot sandy desert. Although the hike to the spring wasn't long or difficult, it felt like an eternity in Piper's mind. I don't remember the heat being this awful... Maybe it's just because I haven't been eating that much... Ugh... I'm usually never this tired... She thought to herself as she trotted along and did her best to keep up with the Delphox.

Spotting the outpost in the distance made her face light up with joy. She broke into a sprint and left Alodi behind, claiming a spot before the refreshing spring. Eagerly lowering her head, she thirstily lapped up the water, enjoying the cool taste on her tongue. After five minutes, she lifted her head up and sighed happily. Oh, that was some of the most delicious water I've ever tasted... Smiling brightly, she turned to look up at Alodi, her tail wagging with newfound energy.

"Ooo! I'd love some food! Do you think they'll have Sitrus berries there? Oh oh oh! Maybe they'll have those little tiny things that come in all sorts of different colors? I like the white ones the best! And I'm holding up just fine, in fact, I'm doing great actually! Anyway, let's go go go!" Despite her exhausted state earlier, she was back to her normal self in an instant, promise of food fueling her body.

[Altepa Desert - Rabao Spring]

@MankeyMankey
The Skitty before him was not the same Skitty he had seen only a few minutes previously. Given the fact he was a Fire-type, he never had to worry about heat exhaustion, though dehydration was a very real threat still. Doing his best to follow her excited speech, he considered the questions she posed, "Excellent question. It's been years since I've been here. I'm certain they have all manners of berries though. When you speak of the tiny things, are you referring gummis? I'm not sure if I've seen those around here."

At Piper's urging, Alodi made his way towards the tent across the spring. Once there, he was greeted by a Nidoqueen who appeared rather tired. "Oh! A customer." Perking up slightly, the large female leaned against the counter, looking over the pair. "What can I do for you?"

"We're both rather famished. I was hoping you had something to remedy that?"

"Of course! What do you think I'm doing here, anyway?" With a playful wink she'd pull out a sheet with scratches that would be able to be read by both present. "If you're famished as you put it, I would suggest having an apple or two. We also have Big and Huge Apples. If that's not something you're interested in, we also have Bananas, Chesnuts... ah! And of course a few different assorted Gummis. All manners of berries as well. So then, what will it be?"

Contemplating the choices, the Delphox finally made up his mind, "Two Big Apples if you wouldn't mind." Glancing down at his companion he smiled, "Have you made up your mind, Piper?"

[Glyph's Guild - Guild Member's Quarters]

@Ninian
The Feraligatr stepped properly in front of the doorway as Pyrrha opened it up. A warm smile gracing his maw as he met her friendly eyes with his own. "I'm happy to see you too. Thank you. I have a bit of free time today, so I thought I'd come for a visit."

Giving a slight bow to the Psychic dancer, Raiden shuffled past her and into the room. Though it was larger than most, the room itself still held a similar style to the others with it's smooth wood interior, floor, and large puffy hay beds. A few small cushions sat around a table near the center of the area. The Water-type gazed around the neatly furnished room for a moment before turning back to smile at Pyrrha. "Looks like the Guildmaster saved the best rooms for the dancers. Did you sleep ok last night?"

[Folio Town - Folio Guild]

With everything that had been talked about, a check up with Rhys had completely slipped everyone's mind. "That's right... you did get hurt pretty badly yesterday..." Selena said, remembering what had happened the night before. "Well... we could probably go to the market and get what we need while you get checked up, then meet you at the trunk." Said Ember. "That could work... what do you guys think?" Selena asked the group.

[Folio Town - Folio Guild]

The sunlight finally began to shine through the windows, touching the edge of the Gracidea Flower that hung on the slumbering Shaymin. In a moment that sunlight activated the flower pollen, and the grass type transformed as the electric lion entered the room. With a yawn, Breeze looked over to Fuse. "Morning... well... did we do it?" She asked. "You don't... remember?" Asked Fuse, turning his head questioningly. "No... that's weird actually... what happened?" She asked.

The events of the previous night replayed in Fuse's head. He couldn't tell her that, it could break her heart, or trigger another episode or whatever happened to her. "Yeah, we did it. You passed out from... exhaustion I think... so we took you back. And Gren... he found what he was looking for, and I hope he's okay now." He said, trying to make it sound believable. "That's good, as long as he was happy in the end, that's what matters." She said, a smile on her face. She bought it at least, but it didn't make Fuse feel any better.

"Yeah... so how are you feeling this morning?" He asked. "Just fine. That good night's sleep is all I needed. I think I'm gonna head into town and get a bite to eat. Wanna come?" She replied, Fuse shaking his head. "No thanks. I've got some stuff to take care of... maybe later." He said. "Alright, well, I'll see you later then!" She finished as she gave a wave and flew out of the room, leaving Fuse alone with his thoughts.

[Folio Town - Glyph's Guild]

Their knock went mostly unheard it seemed, but it seemed the group of Pokemon inside were in deep conversation. It sounded quite interesting, and they didn't want to interfere, but they couldn't help but eavesdrop on what they were saying. "You see? They know already, and they're preparing for it. You're worrying yourself to death when everything is already under control..." "Shh." Omen cut her off as he continued to listen. From the sound of it they thought they still had plenty of time to prepare and get civilians to safety...

"They think they can actually protect them all... they won't even have enough time to evacuate a third of the town... if this event occurs the same as others before..." Omen said, taking in the information he had heard and adding it to his own knowledge. He knew that another world ending event was beginning, and that this place would be the first major blow in what could become a war between Pokemon. Now he began to piece everything together.

"A Legendary Pokemon... leading an uprising of Dungeon Pokemon? Why?" Asked Serenity. "I don't know... I don't see the point... the Legendary Pokemon of our world have no reason to do such a thing..." He said, continuing to contemplate the details. "I need more details..." He said to himself in the same hushed voice he and Serenity had been using to avoid detection. Now he moved to the door and knocked hard on the door, hoping to get someone's attention that they were there.

[Glyph's Guild - Guildmaster's Office]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
Shaking his head, the wise Flygon spoke again. "No, that should be fine Robel. On the point of leaving Folio, I-"

A pounding at the door caused Glyph to cut himself off mid speech. The room falling silent as everyone's attention zeroed in on the source of the noise. Crossing his arms over his chest, the Guildmaster's eyes narrowed at the doors before flicking to the Breloom and the Marowak them. "Jack, Lemmy, open the doors and ask what they want. I'm very busy."

Nodding at the green Dragon, the two shortish Pokémon reached up to grab the respective knob. Opening the doors up a small bit, the Marowak and the Breloom both stuck their heads out and analyzed the Absol and the Sylveon before them. The Marowak, Jack, looked to the Absol and grunted. "The Guildmaster's busy. What do you need?"

[Folio Town - Entrance to the Trunk]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
When Ember offered to split up for the time being, Devon gave a thumb up to the idea. "Yeah, that's good. I'll meet you guys there. See ya in a bit." Once again, the Totodile turned to march off as the Poliwrath called after him. "Find one of the Guild members on patrol to escort you there. Don't want to risk that Gardevoir making another move."

Another thumb up was directed behind the young crocodile's shoulder as he stepped out into the sunny streets of the treetop town.

A half hour later...

[Folio Town - Trunk Entrance]

Rapid little feet tapped against the brightly lit wood street, a small blue creature darting around the clusters of legs, feet, and tails that made up the heavy foot traffic in the town's main hub. The bandage-less Totodile panting as he dodged through the crowd and finally emerged at the mouth of the tree's ginormous trunk. Devon grabbed at his knees and bent over a bit to catch his breath for a few moments. Huh....huh...huh...Jeez. I totally thought I was gonna get stepped on by that Donphan. Being small sucks.

Tilting his head up with half-lidded eyes, the tired Water-type grinned and waved over to the group gathered at the entrance. Standing up properly to begin walking to them. "Hey guys! Rhys says I'm good to go! Just as long as I use this cream he gave me on my burns whenever we go out into the sun. I already put it on before I left. He also gave me this berry drink for my tongue and a bit of stuff for the mission."

Turning to look back at the happy croc, the Poliwrath hefted the backpack off his shoulders and turned his eyes down into the main pouch as he dug around. "That's great Devon. And in honor of you being a quick healer, take this. It's on me." The buff tadpole's fist came out of the bag and tossed a shiny object towards Devon. One that the novice Explorer hopped up to snatch out of the air.

A curious expression washed over Devon's face as he inspected the circular bracelet in his grasp closely. It was round, mostly blue with a yellow trim, and had a large milky stone in it's top. Various tear drop shaped indentations rang around the jewellery's sides, ones that the Totodile poked his claws into. "Thanks, but uh....What is it? Some sort of special bracelet? I've never seen one before..."

A light chuckle escaped Brick as he tossed three more of the same accessories over to Lilisette, Ember, and Selena before crossing his arms and shrugging. "I don't have the faintest clue, but maybe you should ask your friends. They look like they know something."

Staring at the trainer with a raised brow, Devon turned towards his three teammates with the bracelet still clutched in his hands. "Can you guys fill me in?"

[Folio Town - Trunk Entrance]

@Light Lord@Shiny Keldeo
Lilisette had branched off from the main group after gathering some supplies, wanting a bit of alone time to sort out her thoughts. Sitting on a bench near the Trunk's entrance, the Kirlia seemed downtrodden. That whole Gardevoir trying to kill Devon thing keeps bugging me. That never happened! There was no evil Totodile-killing Gardevoir! I can't help but feel like I messed this all up somehow. I don't even really understand how I got here, but I still feel like it's my fault, somehow...

Letting a sigh loose, she curled onto the bench, awaiting the others to get there.

A bit later...

Now sitting on the ground near the others, Lilisette remained fairly quiet the entire time Devon and Brick conversed. Finally, she accepted the Looplet with a small smile, putting on her wrist. With little emotion, the Kirlia glanced up at Devon before explaining, "It's a Looplet..." Staring at it with some confusion she'd continue, "This one isn't imbued... Oh. I suppose that makes sense, I believe only Cerran and Erius have the ability to do that..." Letting out a sigh, she stared at the Looplet before continuing, "...anyway, it's used to hold Emeras, magical gemstones found in dungeons."

[Altepa Desert - Rabao Spring]

@Ninian

Piper tilted her head and looked up at him, perplexed for a moment before immediately perking up. "Oh oh oh! Yeah! Gummis! That's what they're called! It's been forever since I've eaten them!"

Following Alodi, she trotted over to the tent, sitting besides him as he did the talking. With the smell of delicious fruit teasing her nose, her stomach growled loudly. Being quite hungry, she found it difficult to listen to the woman's speech. Only the names of the foods registered in her mind. She licked her lips at the thought of eating such delectable things, zoning out before her partner followed up the Nidoqueen's question.

"Oh, yes!" Glancing up at him, then to the Nidoqueen with a bright smile, she placed her order. "I'd like a Huge Apple and some White Gummis, if you have them. Maybe like... hm... two? No, that's not that much... Oh oh oh! How about three? Okay, yeah! One Huge Apple and three White Gummis, please!"

[Folio Town]

After splitting off from Devon, the group of three made their way to the center of town to the Kecleon's Shop. While the two were looking at supplies, Lilisette split off from them. She didn't say why, and they didn't ask. Instead, they focused on getting the supplies, because even they knew that some Pokemon just needed a little alone time. In total, the two gathered an inventory of:

• Apple x10
• Oran Berry x5
• Reviver Seed x2
• Blast Seed x2

After arriving at the Trunk, it wasn't too long before Devon finally reappeared, bandage free and ready to go. "That's good to hear!" Said Selena, giving a smile towards the Totodile. Then Brick tossed them what would be one of their final pieces of equipment. "Oh yeah! Emeras, those are those weird gem crystal things that can only exist in dungeons or something..." Ember said, showing her lack of knowledge on the subject.

"My dad used these all the time in Dungeons, he still has his usual one, he never takes it off." She said, before shaking her head and getting back to the subject. "Emeras are strange objects only found in Dungeons. They can grant special abilities and effects that help those who know how to use them. The one my dad used often was an Awakening Emera. They're one of the few things that can allow Pokemon to achieve Mega Evolution." She explained.

[Folio Town - Folio Guild]

The teenage Absol watched the large oak door open and the Marowak answer their knock. He locked eyes with the Pokemon, letting the seriousness of his attitude sink in. "I know what's happening. We're here to help." He said, nudging his way in a little, Serenity following behind. "Guild Master Glyph, right? My name is Omen, I'm a member of the Valiant Village Guild under Guild Masters Spirit and Luna." He started, not moving from his spot at the door.

"We've traveled far from our home on the Grass Continent because of... well... you know how Absol have acute danger sense..." He said, closing his eyes. "My father has a Disaster Sense more potent than normal Absol, and that passed on to me. I've sensed great disaster approaching, and I knew I had to come." He explained. "So my partner, Serenity, and her sister Krystal, came with me. I cannot determine how potent the threat really is, but if what I heard you saying is true, then my worst fears may have been realized..."

He opened his eyes, staring into the domed eyes of the Flygon Guild Master. "Another world ending disaster is upon us... and Folio could just be the beginning... I... We will do all we can to stop this threat before it begins. Let us help you." He said, bowing slightly to the Guild Master. "Please. As fellow Guild Members, we have to do something if we can help it. Otherwise, it goes against everything we believe in, that we've learned, that we've taught." Serenity said, following Omen's example.

[Folio Town - Folio Guild]

He'd been sitting alone in his appointed Guild Room for a while now. He'd been questioning his actions, wondering if he'd done the right thing, thinking about what would have happened had he told the truth. He'd finally come to the realization that he'd done what he'd done and there was no turning back. He had to go out and face the world as he always did. He left his isolation and re-entered the normal world. As he walked out the door, his head was held low, his eyes closed as he was deep in thought. He never even noticed it coming...

*THUD*

The pounding in his head felt like he had just headbutted a wall. "Ow..." He heard in reply. Okay, so it wasn't a wall. "Oh my gosh, are you two alright?!" He heard another voice. He was afraid to look up, he'd plowed right into someone. "I'm okay... what about yo-" He heard the voice stop. He heard a gasp, and he heard a few steps. "L-Ligero? I-is it really you?" He stopped. His eyes opened wide. Who would know his real name? Only Glyph really even knew it, everyone else only knew him by his nickname Fuse.

He looked up, and was taken aback by the face of another Luxio staring right into his eyes at point blank range. "Gah!" He jumped back in surprise. He looked over the Luxio. She was clearly female, but a single detail caught his eye. A single flower. The same type of flower he'd given his best friend not long before he left his tribe. It couldn't be... of all the places in the world, it couldn't be... "It is you... you're okay, you're really okay!" The Luxio before him rushed forward, tackling him in a hug.

"H-Hikari? There's no way... how... why..." He stuttered. He was speechless. He didn't know how it was possible. "I've missed you so much... you never came home... we thought the worst... I don't believe it!" She said, keeping him close, her closed eyes shedding a tear or two. "Um... this is getting... kinda... awkward..." The second voice said, and suddenly the two snapped to attention and attempted to regain their composure. "Sorry... but really, I thought I'd never see you again... where have you been, what have you been doing?!" Hikari asked.

"Well... Uhm... It's... a long story..." He said, Hikari coming up next to him. "You can tell me ALL about it over lunch... oh yeah, this is Krystal. Krystal, this is Ligero, he's the one I've been looking for!" She said, the Glaceon giving a little wave. "Nice to meet you. I'll let you two... catch up... catch you later!" She said, rushing by the two as she skirted past the guards and into the Guild. "Now come on, like she said, it's time to catch up!" She said, beginning to push Fuse along. "Hey! Okay, I can walk on my own! Come on!" He said as she continued leading him towards the town center.

[Folio Town - Entrance to the Trunk]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
Tilting his head at Lilisette, Devon held up the bracelet again and stared into one of the Looplet's indentations. "Emeras huh? What do they do?"

The curious Totodile then shifted his gaze to Ember and Selena. While the Quilava offered little info on the magical gems, the Bayleef went into a bit more detail about their various properties. Devon's brown eyes lit up in amazement as his friend mentioned something familiar. "So that's what an Awakening is! That's awesome! Lilisette told me about how cool Mega Evolution was yesterday. I wonder if we'll find one."

The Poliwrath grunted, the slimy blue area under his eyes flexing in a 'smirk' as he looked over the excited Water-type. "You might. You'll never know until you actually start looking considering Dungeons are completely randomized. Now, all of you guys should do one last inventory check before we head out. Share supplies among yourselves if you need to, because carrying a heavy load can be dangerous."

"Right." Devon nodded as he slipped the Looplet around his wrist, going wide eyed as the bracelet visibly shrunk to fit around his stubby arm. Taking a moment to admire the rather pretty accessory, the Totodile twisted his body to the left to grab at his bag, catching a glance of the blue Kirlia still sitting on the floor and staring at her Looplet with a blank face. The crocodile's maw fell agape a moment before it closed into a frown. "Ember, Selena, just gimme a sec."

Strolling over to the downtrodden Psychic, Devon crouched down slightly to meet her gaze and lower his voice to a raspy whisper. "Lilisette, are you ok? What's the matter?"

[Folio Town - Trunk Entrance]

@Light Lord@Shiny Keldeo
A small, forced smile played across her lips, "I'm all right, Devon... I was just..." Trailing off, she closed her eyes, "I'm... not sure I should be here, you know? Anyway, I guess I don't really have a choice. I don't actually know how to go home. I have an idea, but..." Picking herself up, she brushed off the small amount of dirt, "Anyway. I'll try not to think about it. All right, so what do I have here..."

• Big Apple x4
• Apple x2
• Gold Gummi x5
• Blue Gummi x5
• Reviver Seed x1

"I wasn't really able to carry as much stuff as I would like. You can take some stuff if you want, Devon." Looking to the two girls she'd continue, "You guys are welcome too, but I think you're actually pretty good right?"

With wide eyes, she reached into her pack and pulled out a few blue candies, "I forgot! I got these for you, Devon! I think you'll like them. They're surprisingly filling, and easy to carry around."

[Altepa Desert - Rabao Spring]

@MankeyMankey
"All right, give me a moment and I'll have your orders ready~" Retreating further into the tent, the large female began going through barrels and boxes of various food items, wrapping each order into a light cloth bundle before coming back to the pair. "That will be 500! Thank you for stopping by~"

Reaching into his sleeve, the magician pulled out the currency and set it upon the wooden counter. "Thank you so much. I have to ask, is that tent over there for customers? I believe I saw a table."

"Oh yes! Of course. You certainly do not want to eat out in the heat. Feel free to stay as long as you'd like."

With a courteous bow, the Delphox made his way over toward the second tent, "Thank you."

It didn't take long for the pair to make their way towards the large tent. Inside were a few tables with cushions, and what appeared to be an unused bar. Setting each makeshift bag on the table, Alodi began to unravel his. "I'm not sure how long you'd like to rest here, though I'd suggest heading off fairly soon, if only to avoid the sandstorms. Anyway, I hope you enjoy your meal."

[Folio Town - Trunk Entrance]

@Ninian @Light Lord

The two couldn't help but overhear the awkward conversation between Devon and Lilisette, wondering why she didn't know how to go home. The two looked at each other with a questioning glance, but neither knew the answer. Finally when Lilisette began addressing them, they replied. "You guys can share that stuff between you two, Selena and me got plenty of stuff." Ember said, looking down at her treasure bag. "Right, we've each got 5 apples, and a Reviver Seed each. But you guys can have these." She said, placing 2 Oran Berries and 1 Blast Seed on the ground in front of them.

"We grabbed enough Oran Berries for everyone that we could, even one for you Mr. Brick, if you needed one." She finished. "Yeah, Selena actually knows a lot about this stuff, even though she's never been out of Folio before. Like grabbing Blast Seeds instead of, like, Gravelrocks." Ember said. "Everything I know is from my parents, it's because of them..." She said, suddenly taking a moment to think about how much she had actually detested the training she had been put through.

Finally, the mystery seemed to get the better of Ember, as she finally asked the question. "Hey, Lilisette? What did you mean, that you didn't know how to go home?" Ember asked, Selena looking nervously at her friends. "As... much as I don't want to prod... I'm curious too..."

[Folio Town - The Blue Treeko]

After finally somewhat regaining his freedom of movement, Fuse led Hikari down to The Blue Treeko. There the two got situated and began to order. "The usual, Tomato Berry Salad with Rawst Berry Juice." Fuse said without even looking at a menu. "I think I'll have... The Mixed Berry Saute with... Oran Berry Drink." Hikari replied after a few moments of thought. As the waiter left with their orders, Hikari finally asked the question again.

"So... how did you end up way out here?" She asked, seeing his face and showing a bit of concern on hers. "Well... you know when I left on my trial I had to get back that Artifact from the Manectric Clan right?" He said. "Of course. I watched you leave... it was the last time anyone saw you again..." She said sadly. "Well... I never found it... I didn't want to come back a failure. I decided to try joining Law Enforcement, hoping that could help me. That's when I evolved. But... I flunked out, didn't have the right Personality they said." He said with a low growl.

"That sounds just awful for you..." She said with a genuine voice of comfort. "And after wandering around in the desert, my supplies got stolen by bandits, and I thought I was done for... but then..." "Then what?!" She piped in excitedly, pulling back when Fuse gave her a glance. "... then I was rescued, by members from this Guild in fact. I admired what they had done, and I saw another chance I could take to redeem myself, so I joined them. But ever since... It's just been one bad mission after another..."

He sighed. "That's how I got here... one failure after a next, resulting in the biggest failure sitting next to you..." Hikari's eyes showed deep concern now, seeing Fuse so down. "Ligero... it's time for you to come home..." She said, Fuse opening his eyes and looking at her. "I can't come home... not until I've done what I set out to do." Hikari shook her head. "Stormer wants you to come back, everyone does. You've been away for so long, so much has changed... you've just got to..."

Fuse shook his head. "I can't... I don't want them to see the failure that I've become... so go back to them, tell them I'm still working towards my goal..." He said. "If you're not coming, I'm not going." She said sternly, stamping her paw on the table. "What do you mean?" He asked. "My Trial, my Right of Passage Quest, was to find you and bring you home. I won't go home unless you go home. So if you're staying here, so am I." His eyes lit up a bit in surprise.

"So you'd better get used to me hanging around, because I'm sticking to you like Frubble." She finished. He gave a smile, but in his mind he was thinking of how bad a time it was for her to be here, about what was happening soon. As the food arrived, the two began to eat, and there was a calm silence between the two at last.

[Altepa Desert - Rabao Spring]

@Ninian

Food food food! was the only thing on Piper's mind as she greedily eyed her order being wrapped up in a light cloth bundle. With a nod accompanying each word of gratitude, she smiled brightly at the store owner. "Thank you thank you! Have a wonderful day~"

An energetic bounce in her step, she sprinted over to the large tent and hopped up onto a soft cushion, patting it down with her paws to make it comfortable before sitting down. Once the Delphox had caught up and set the bags on the table, she leapt up and quickly unraveled hers. "Oh my gosh! It looks so delicious!" She squealed with delight, glossing over what to eat first.

Deciding on the Huge Apple, she started her meal, nibbling it hungrily. Attempting to speak while stuffing her face, she responded. "Mmm... Ymm tmm..."

[Altepa Desert - Rabao Spring]

@MankeyMankey
Taking a bite out of one of the Big Apples, he finished chewing before beaming at the apparently euphoric Skitty before him. "I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. Now, I'm not entirely sure what you're trying to say, but that's all right. You must be quite famished." With another chewed bite, he continued, "I suppose I should go over our course. If something were to happen to me, it's best if you know how to make your way to Folio. I assume you haven't been there before, given it's been blocked off for some time."

Pulling a piece of parchment from his sleeve, he then unraveled it before the Normal-type. "This is the Sand Continent. We are here." Taking a clawed finger, he'd point at an Oasis labeled *Rabao Spring*. "From here, we will travel to Gerudo." Pointing to a small village, he'd continue, "I say we stay there until one of the larger sandstorms pass. Now, they're somewhat predictable, but it's possible we may get caught in one regardless. If that's the case, we will need to use this cloth we've just acquired to shield ourselves, and immediately search for shelter. Hopefully that will not happen!" Taking his finger he drew another line to a large tree, "That is Folio Town. You must enter the trunk—which so happens to be a dungeon—before making your way to the town. Do you have any questions? Comments? Concerns?"

[Glyph's Guild - Guildmaster's Office]

@Light Lord@Shiny Keldeo
Having been making his exit after being dismissed by the Guildmaster, the Heliolisk would pass by the Marowak who was attempting to turn away visitors. Narrowing his eyes at the pair, Robel put a hand forward, "It's all right, Jack. I can handle this from here." Crossing his arms he continued, "We do not require outside assistance. In fact, I strongly suggest you return to your continent and protect those close to you."

[Glyph's Guild - Guild Member's Quarters]

@Light Lord
"I slept wonderfully! Thank you for your concern. How about yourself? Were you able to stay here?" Letting out a sigh, the Gardevoir's cheerful demeanor faded.

Averting her gaze, she clutched her arm, "I heard the Guildmaster has called an urgent meeting, and we were informed this morning that we are not to leave Folio on our own. In fact, they're preparing our escort to Gerudo as we speak... It seems we won't be staying here as long as planned... I'm so sorry, Raiden..."

[Folio Town - Entrance to the Trunk]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
The rather vague and depressing answer given by Lilisette made the Totodile's maw dip into a frown as he stood back up along with her. Lilisette...

Taking a peak into the bag, Devon reached in to grab two of the Big Apples and move them to his own satchel. "I'll just take half of the Big Apples since they're sort of heavy." Looking down at the Oran berries and Blast Seed offered, the Water-type smiled and grabbed one of the berries. "Thanks Selena." When he was offered the small bag of blue gummy candy, he looked them over curiously for a moment before dropping them into his pack too. "Thank you I'll uh...Try those later. Are you sure you're ok?"

Then, Ember finally brought up the question that the young Water-type had been expecting. Wincing slightly, his brown eyes flicked to the blue Kirlia. "You can probably tell them now. They're your friends too."

[Folio Town - Trunk Entrance]

@Light Lord@Shiny Keldeo
The group seemed curious about why Lilisette couldn't go home, causing her to wilt, staring at the ground. Collapsing, she stared at the floor beneath her, shaking her head at Devon's words. Finally, after a few more moments of awkward silence she spoke, "I don't remember how I got here. I think I... saw something weird and went to investigate? It's... really blurry and vague, but I kind of remember something sparkly." Closing her eyes, a soft sigh escaped her lips, "I don't remember much from before I woke up here, either. I remember my family... and I remembered Devon very vividly as soon as I caught sight of him. I mean, as vividly as one can remember something read in a book, anyway..." Taking a moment she paused before continuing, "Actually, it's like... I know a lot, but only after something triggers a memory, you know? Well, besides my parents... I still remembered them when I woke up in the middle of the desert... It's all really confusing... Oh, and..."

Staring at the ground, a sigh escaped her maw, "...I knew when I was almost immediately. I saw the sandstorm disappear before my eyes. You know, Folio never did get another Tyranitar to shroud the town. So... I knew that if I came here, I'd find my mother..."

Letting out a sad laugh, the Kirlia picked herself up, "I really am babbling on, aren't I? Sorry if I'm not making any sense."

[Glyph's Guild - Guild Member's Quarters]

@Ninian
A light smile swept over Raiden's maw as the Gardevoir gave her reply, a hand coming up to scratch at the side of his scarred chin. "Yes, I was. The Guildmaster wouldn't let me leave when I tried to walk out after dinner was done. I slept fine, just not very much. A dream kept me up."

The news seemed to steal away the happiness from the Feraligatr's features as he sighed, shaking his head as he took a seat and laced his fingers. Putting his hands under his chin, he closed his eyes. "There's nothing you need to apologize for Pyrrha. The safety of you and the rest of your friends is much more important to me than few missed shows."

Lifting his lids and gazing across the room at the Fairy with clouded orange eyes, he lowered his hands. "The best thing you can do now is to just prepare for whatever challenge is ahead, and enjoy the time you have before that challenge comes. Worrying about it won't help."

Reaching behind him to fumble around in his large satchel bag, the Feraligatr soon pulled out a long, capped wood tube and held it up. "Do you want any tea? I bought some from the drink stand in the square earlier."