[Entrance to the Trunk → Town Path F8]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
When all the eyes were one him, the former human looked around at his trio of friends, before gaining a confident smile and raising a fist. "Ok. I won't let you guys down. I'll get us through here no problem."

The nearby Poliwrath cleared his throat, causing Devon's attention to turn back to him as he casually stepped aside and gestured with his gloved hand. "Team Horizon is running the show now. Get a move on."

Taking a breath, Devon gripped the strap of his bag and began to walk out into the room proper. The area's ceiling having an odd, convex shape where a large amount of light leaked in through the flesh of the tree. The floor, while still covered mostly in sand, had occasional patches of bare wood floor. A rather curious green square also glowing softly near the room's center. Checking over his shoulder, he waved at the rest of the team. "I don't see anything in this room yet. It's just more sand and a Wonder Tile. We'll stay in the line formation until we run into trouble."

Making a swift left turn once he spotted another hall, the Totodile led the group across the sandy cavern. Brick resigning to standing near Selena at the back of the line to monitor their progress. As they passed through the next narrow hall, the distant sound of dripping water came from the room ahead, peaking the reptile's curiosity as he marched with a vibrant vigor. A completely randomized cave....There could be anything in here. Maybe we'll find a room like the one that I woke up in, with all of those glowing plants, and that pond....I really hope we find a pond before we get out to the desert. I wanna take a dip before I end up frying out there... Checking back behind his shoulder again to see the four other Pokémon following, a strange thought began to creep into the back of Devon's mind as he looked back ahead and put his arms behind his head. "Huh....It's weird, leading a team like this....It feels familiar to me for some reason."

[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

@Light Lord@Shiny Keldeo
Following Devon quietly, Lilisette took a look around. Though it wasn't her first time going through a dungeon, it was her first time with a proper exploration group. It made her almost feel important, or even grown-up. "Maybe leading is a human thing...? You know what... I never asked. So what exactly is a human? What do you look like normally...?"

Waiting for a response, she took in her surroundings. I was running through here earlier, and I guess I never really had a chance to look. Everything is so... dry. I'm surprised this tree's still alive... that's so weird, it's really lush up top. I wonder what's up...

As they continued, it became increasingly apparent that feral Pokémon have made themselves scarce.

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

@Light Lord
Furrowing her brows, the Gardevoir quietly listened as the Water-type told his story. Small tears streamed down her face as he went on, however she remained completely silent.

Finally, with his story completed, Pyrrha's eyes fell downcast, "O-Oh... I see... you... must have made her so happy. I..." Pausing she'd continue after a moment, "I... notice that you're not with a little girl anymore. Has she grown up...?"

[Folio Town - Outside the Guild]

@Shiny Keldeo
As the female Luxio properly introduced herself, Glyph smiled and returned the bow in kind. "And I am Glyph. It's a pleasure to meet you, Hikari." When Fuse chimed in and related their meeting to being related to his question, the Flygon's interest peaked. Large antennae twitching slightly. "Oh? What specifically did you want to inquire?"

While Fuse hesitantly began to explain himself, the smile on Glyph's face slowly began to grow wider. His domed eyes resting on the Luxio pair and seeming to sparkle. He wants to form a team with her....Wonderful! I always held hope that Fuse would find himself a partner....How fortunate for him that it will be one of his close friends.

Hikari finishing the sentence of course came as no surprise to the wise Flygon. Though Fuse's comment about code made him chuckle softly. "Now where did this nonsense about code come from? There are no set rules in this Guild, nor in the Exploration Federation to my knowledge, of who can or cannot be apart of one's Exploration Team. The rules for being able to join with them is simply for the Explorers themselves to decide." Looking over to the female Luxio, the Guildmaster nodded. "Of course you're welcome to join a team with him." The gentle smile on his face weakened slightly, his tone growing more serious. "Though I must advise, Exploration can be rewarding, but also very dangerous work. Especially during times most recent. You must be fully prepared to give your best efforts for fellow Explorers, who rely on you day in and day out, and for the benefit of all the Pokémon of this world if you want to become an Explorer."

Meeting the girl's eyes with an intense red glossy gaze, he finished. "Are you prepared for all of that Hikari?"

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

@Ninian
The question of the girl's age caused Raiden to go silent for a moment, taking another drink of his tea before chuckling sadly. "Yes, she has. I admit, I miss the time when she was a little girl. Everything was a lot simpler back then....She was happier too." Setting the cup down in his lap, Raiden gripped it with both hands before looking up at Pyrrha and giving a somewhat happier expression. "Though it's not like I don't see Lilith anymore. We still live together, it's just that she's...always so busy. I actually have plans to meet her in the next few days. There's...something I've wanted to talk to her about for awhile now, about why she's always busy....but I just don't know how to say it."

Tapping his claws on the wood of the cup, he looked away for a moment, before glancing back up into the red eyes of the dancer with his orange one's. "Pyrrha...Would you mind helping me with that? Just helping me word what I want to say to her?"

@Ninian @Light Lord

[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

Ember followed closely beside Lilisette, with Selena bringing up the rear of the group. This being their first time into the trunk, or a Dungeon at all, they were taking in everything they could while keeping an eye out for any Dungeon Dwelling Pokemon. "This place is so different from town... maybe it's just because it's a Mystery Dungeon?" Ember asked. "Maybe. Mystery Dungeon's are said to have some weird power that even Arceus can't explain. That's why they shift around and change their layout like they do." Selena explained.

As they approached the next room, Devon mentioned how being the leader felt familiar. "Or, maybe Devon was some kind of great leader in his world, and that's why he was chosen!" Ember said. "It's possible... and I doubt he remembers that, Lilisette. In fact... there's not much written about Humans. Only that they were summoned by strange power in our darkest hour, whether we know it or not, to set things right." She said.

[Folio Town - Glyph's Guild]

The Guildmaster's reply caught the two by surprise at how quickly he agreed and with little worry it seemed. "Just like that? I don't believe it... even with everything going on, he's going to agree?" Fuse thought as the Guildmaster continued, causing a nervous look to fall upon Hikari's face as Glyph turned onto a serious note exploring the dangers of being a Guildmate. Looking downward somewhat, she would reply.

"Well... I'm definitely not as strong as lots of Pokemon... the only reason I even made it here is because a team passing by was kind enough to help me." She sighed. "But I can learn, I can get stronger. I don't care if I have to train from daybreak until nightfall. I don't think there's one thing I've ever been more sure of in my life." She said, a look of determination now on her face, her confident stance returned.

Fuse looked over to the Guildmaster. "Eh, a bit overdramatic, but that's Hikari for you. Not much experience but all of the enthusiasm you could ask for." Fuse said, now with his own serious look on the Guildmaster. "Are you sure it won't be a problem, considering what's going to happen?" Fuse asked, Hikari looking over to him. "Huh? Something's going to happen? What?" She asked curiously.

[Folio Town]

As the group considered their options, Omen had a sense that they were being watched. Looking up past the group, his eyes would lay upon one of the pillars of the Observation Post. "Huh? Did you see something?" Krystal said, turning around to gaze at the spot. Omen said nothing, but Serenity could tell by the look on his face that something had disturbed him.

And in his gut, in his mind, he could feel something wasn't right. He couldn't put his paw on it, but it kept eating at him until he finally decided to do something. "Come on." He said, starting to move forward. "Where are you going?" Serenity asked, cocking her head questioningly at him. "Wherever my instincts take me." He replied, continuing to move forward towards Town Center. With a shrug from Krystal, the two began to trail behind.

[Entrance to the Trunk → Town Path F8]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
As his friends speculated about his origins around him, Devon cracked a smile at Ember's comment, snickering a bit. "Hey, I'd buy it. There's no doubt that I've done this sort of thing before, so maybe I was really good at it." Looking back at Selena, then to Lilisette, the Totodile bore a conflicted frown, his brows furrowing. "Actually, I remember a little bit about being human. I wouldn't even really call it straight up remembering...It's just 'feelings' I'm getting."

Looking back at the path ahead, the Water-type crossed his arms and tapped his claws on his upper left arm. "I at least know for a fact that I didn't have scales, claws, or a tail. I wasn't nearly this short either....And...I don't remember anything about being able to shoot water out of my mouth, or ever having a 'Type'. That's why it was so weird for me when I first woke up here. Every time I look at my body, or move my tail or something, It just feels..." Looking down at his hand form a moment, he flexed his fingers. "...Off. I'm used to it now, but it's always in the back of my mind."

[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

@Light Lord@Shiny Keldeo
"A weird power Arceus can't explain...? Huh, that's kinda weird." Blinking a few times in confusion, the Kirlia would soon regain her composure, taking in the experience. Ember brought up an interesting point, causing her to nod, "Oh yeah, that's probably true. I mean, there had to be some reason you were picked. Being some great leader makes a lot of sense."

Brows furrowed in thought as Selena threw in her thoughts, she sighed, "You're right... he probably doesn't remember a thing..."

It was then Devon spoke about his time as a human, "You didn't have a type? Oh. That's... weird. Anyway, not having scales or a tail isn't really weird. I mean look at me, I fit that description minus the height. A Gardevoir would definitely fit the description... but I doubt you were a Gardevoir." Putting a hand to her lips she thought, "Maybe a human's a really powerful shapeshifting Pokémon that lacks a type? Kind of like a Ditto, but better? I dunno. It's really hard to imagine..."

Looking around, her brows furrowed, "Anyway, when I came through here earlier, there were a lot more Pokémon. A strong one was apparently sent to kill me too. Some little Aron saved me, but... I don't see her. I hope something bad didn't happen..."

[Folio Town]

@Shiny Keldeo
Skulking around, the faux-Absol attempted to gather information. Fortunately for him, he overheard two guild members talk amongst themselves. Finding a place to hide behind, he eavesdropped.

"Did you hear? Brick is taking the newbies on their first mission!"

"Oh, Brute's kid's with them right? And I'm pretty sure the little Totodile is the human everyone's making a fuss over."

"Yeah, Devon. He doesn't really seem all that strong, but I guess humans start out as kids and get stronger. Hopefully in time to defeat whatever it is he was sent here for."

A wicked grin played across the Dark-types maw, Oh my... collecting information is entirely too easy. So, the human's name is Devon, and he's a Totodile...? Ah, but better yet they are being sent on their first mission, so I'm sure they're traveling down the trunk as we speak... or at least heading that way. How convenient. I believe it's time...

With a spring in his step, Volug made his way towards Folio's Trunk.

[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

Perfect... I can smell a group in front of me. That must be them..!

[Altepa Desert]

@Ninian

Shifting her gaze from the fiery fray between the two frenzied Pokemon, Piper looked to Alodi and gave a quick nod. With a small muffled sigh, she fixated her eyes on the ruins up ahead and burst into a sprint, lowering her head to the ground and moving her tail away from her mouth so she could move comfortably. Remaining right besides her partner, she'd take a beeline downstairs before letting out a series of violent coughs from the rough sand inhaled during her dash.

"Ah...cough...shit...are we...cough cough cough... safe for now?" She asked, looking up at the Delphox with watery eyes. After getting rid of the debris in her body, she'd take a deep breath and lean back against the walls of the ruins, savoring their safe respite.

[Altepa Desert]

@MankeyMankey
Once Piper caught up, the Delphox would offer the scarf. Pressing his back against the wall, he'd slide down into a sit, coughing and breathing in deeply, only to cough more. Rubbing his eyes, he'd let out a pained groan as a grain of sand seemed to scratch as he removed it. "W-We... We should be fine for now. As long as... as long as they don't notice us." Closing his eyes, he'd let out a sigh before speaking once more, "I'm... sorry for dragging you into this. I should have know better... we should have stayed in Rabao, but..." Staring down he'd continue, "Sandstorms... usually do not occur this early in the day... at least not in this desert, I'm so terribly sorry..."

"Once we catch our breath, we should seek out a narrow corridor, it should be easier to defend. In fact, it's possible there's a hidden door that leads into an underground structure... possibly a dungeon... but it may be safer to stay here, I... do not know." Furrowing his brows, he'd look to Piper, "Are you... all right?"

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

@Light Lord
"She's busy...? Ah... I'm so sorry. I take it she's in an exploration team of her own now? If so, I'm sure she's doing fine..." Averting her gaze, she let out a soft sigh, "...Anyway, yes um... I'd be happy to help. Is there something um... wrong with her being so busy?"

[Folio Town - Outside the Guild]

@Shiny Keldeo
A sigh escaped Glyph's lips as the smile on his face finally faded away in favour of a stern frown. His head raised up as he looked past the two Luxio and into the Town Square. "I admire your dedication and courage Hikari, but I think it would be best for you to hold your decision until after you've heard everything. Please join me in the Square, I'll explain everything there."

Strolling past the Electric duo, dozens of other Guild members flooded out of the front entrance. A Midnight Form Lycanroc carrying a large wood block waving at Fuse as he hurriedly passed by them and followed the Flygon making his way to the town's center.

[Folio Town - Town Square]

@Shiny Keldeo
"Attention everyone, I have a very important announcement that is vital to the safety of yourselves, and your loved ones."

One by one, the hundreds of Pokémon going to and fro the many different shops and buildings of the square stopped and turned their heads to the center of the plaza. A crowd began to gather around the Guildmaster as he stood atop of a large wooden cube with a long roll of parchment in his claws. Taking one last look over the writing, Glyph took a breath and tucked the speech back into the satchel bag at his side and faced the confused and curious faces of the towns mon.

"Some of you may already be aware of the prophecy made by the Sol Sibyl, but if you are unfamiliar I shall summarize it's contents now. The prophecy foretells of an uprising of Dungeon dwelling Pokémon, being spurred on and led by a lone Legendary Pokémon. Who this Legendary Pokémon is, we do not know yet. However, we know that their goal will be the destruction of modern civilization. That unfortunately includes our dear town of Folio."

Predictably, the announcement soon spread chaos across the square. A never ending flurry of voices all talking, shouting, and yelling at once as the citizens of the town attempted to process the grim information. The Lycanroc standing next to Glyph's make-shift podium ears began to twitch, until the rock dog placed his paws on either side of his muzzle and howled. "QUIET DOWN! HE'S NOT DONE YET!"

The crowd's panic soon began to die down after the wolf's call for silence. Allowing the Dragon-type on the podium to clean his throat and continued his speech. Intense, red glossy eyes scanning the many Pokémon around him in various shapes and sizes. "Now, it is not the time for panic. Myself and the rest of the Folio Guild have come up with plans to both defend our fair town, and protect all who live within it's branches and those who are merely temporary guests. As of now, there are Guild members heading to the outer most branches and neighbourhoods to begin evacuating citizens and relocating them to the nearby town of Gerudo. From there, we will move towards the inner most branches throughout the week. In case there is no more room left for refugees in that town, citizens will be escorted to Sahara Town via teams of fast, able bodied Pokémon. If you are wondering the reason for the public having to leave the town, we fear that Folio will take heavy damages due to our location a top of two Mystery Dungeons. Now, if for any reason you do not wish to leave Folio entirely, we have prepared a few small living quarters inside of the Guild that are accessible to all Pokémon of any shape or size."

Murmuring started up again in the crowd, though was swiftly ignored by the Guildmaster as he continued to speak. "The entrance to Folio's Trunk will also be barricaded within three days. After that, there will only be one other way to leave the town, and that will be via flight. I implore all of you to speak with one of the local patrolling Guild members for more information, as it will be vital that you plan out the next coming days. After the fighting is done, and the town is deemed safe, all citizens are requested to return to Folio Town as soon as possible, as it will be much safer and secure once the looming threat is dealt with."

Taking one last deep breath, the large green dragon straightened out and put his claws behind his back. "And now, a request from myself, to any willing Pokémon that can hear this speech. If you are able to handle yourself in a combat scenario, then please, I encourage you to seek out either myself, or one of the many Guild members walking the streets signified by the golden tree badge, to stand with the Folio Guild and help defend this town and it's Pokémon from any threat that may come to them."

Bowing to the crowd, he finished with a soft tone. "That will be all. We must all hold strong, and do our best to be brave in the face of danger."

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

@Ninian
Nodding slowly at the dancing Gardevoir's question, the Feraligatr let out a soft grumble. "Not normally no, but....Well, she's been overzealous lately. To the point where I don't even think she knows what she's doing anymore." Raising up his wood cup, he quickly grabbed the bottle of tea of the table and began to pour another glass slowly. "You see, it was Lilith herself that inspired me to start Exploring again. As a child she was always fascinated with the stories I told her of my adventures, and said that someday she wanted to be a Rescuer too. A hero. I was...." A rather pained, guilty look over took Raiden's face. "...against it, at first. I didn't like the thought of her doing work so dangerous. But as she grew a bit older, she became more persistent, and wanted to prove to me that she could do it. So eventually, she did. Though I only let her do it on one condition: I had to go with her for the first little while. She was excellent. She had a great understanding of how to work with Pokémon, how and when to fight, and why we do that sort of work in the first place."

A sigh escaped the gator's lips as he simply stared at his now full, steaming cup. "But as the years have gone on...Lilith changed. She's started to take more risks, become more rash in her decisions and how she handles missions. I've noticed this, obviously, and I've said things before, but she's simply brushed them off." Taking a sip, he went on still. His head hanging lower. "Recently has been even worse. Her zealousness I mentioned. There's a village that she recently came across that needs protection against a very powerful group of Outlaws. Lilith vowed to help, but her methods to protect them so far have been extremely dangerous to both herself and her allies, and she refuses to search for any other solution to the problem. No matter how many alternatives I show her, no matter how many times I ask for her to slow down and reconsider, and no matter how many times I've pleaded....She remains stubborn."

Looking up at Pyrrha, Raiden's eyes would appear to be a bit wet. "I...I'm scared Pyrrha. I'm scared of her, and I can't stop worrying about her, and I feel like I'm the one to blame. I don't know what to do....What I can say to make her stop this shit....I need to say something strong....Or else....I might lose her forever."

@Ninian @Light Lord

[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

As the group traveled deeper into the floor, the continued to talk about humans. "Hey Selena? You seem pretty knowledgeble about this stuff, did humans have typing, do you know?" Ember asked "Well... I don't know... there isn't much known about Humans... but, there are a few stories about Humans brought to this world that I've read about." Selena remarked. "I've read that Humans have stopped events that would have destroyed the world as we know it, from a Meteor that was going to collide with the planet, to even stopping time from stopping... though I'm not sure how much of it is true..." She concluded.

"If humans can do all that... maybe they just have some amazing power that normal Pokemon can't even comprehend... but if they don't remember they're a human, how do they know how to use it?" Ember wondered out loud. With a barely audible giggle from Selena, she stopped as she looked down a side hallway, catching sight of something the next room over. "Hey, I think I see those stairs Brick told us about over here." She said, spotting a strange staircase that led downward into the trunk.

[Folio Town]

At the Guildmaster's urging, the two followed Glyph into the Town Center, where the entire town seemed to be gathering. As Glyph finally publicly announced the events that would be unfolding, Hikari was dumbstruck at the serious tone and the nature of what was going to happen. "That must've been what Krystal and the others came here for..." She said quietly to herself as Glyph continued his speech.

Following the speech, the crowd semi-dispersed, with multiple clusters huddled around the main square. The two approached the Guild Master when the chance arose. "Guild Master... now I see why you wanted me to wait until after your speech to decide... and my decision... it remains the same as before." She said, with fire in her eyes that Fuse hadn't seen since they were little. "Now that I know what danger that, not just Folio, but the world is in, I have to help. So please, I want to join!" She said.

A set of thundering footsteps could be heard, and felt, as a massive Pokemon approached as well. "Let the kid join, Glyph, she's got the spark of a great guildie." The voice said as Brute the Venusaur and Leanne the Meganium approached the stand. "Brute, are you sure about this? With your back..." She started, but Brute was here for a reason.

"And while you're at it... I'm coming back too. Bad back or not, I'm not gonna sit by and let my town become a war zone." He said sternly. "Well... if he's sure about this... then count me in too. Besides, if my little Selena is willing to do this, then I have no choice but to help." She replied.

"Looks like our kids dragged us into this too." Said another voice. Kyla, the mother of Ember, stepped forward. "I know Pepper would have stepped forward the first chance he got. If my girl is going to be fighting this, then so will I." She said.

[Folio Town]

As Omen and his team neared the Entrance to the Trunk, they stopped when they heard Guildmaster Glyph giving his speech. Omen was shocked at first to hear that Glyph was actually publicly announcing it, but it only angered him as he realized that they should have known days ago what was going on. "It's about time... let's keep moving." He said, motioning for his team to follow him into the trunk. "Just where are we going, Omen? And why?" Serenity asked.

"I don't know. Something just feels off. It's just one of those feelings I get." He replied. "Like that makes me feel any better..." She said back. "Hey, at least we're doing something more than standing around and letting the world fall apart around us. Plus, this could be fun!" Krystal said as the group entered Folio's Trunk.

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

@Light Lord
"Overzealous...?" The confused word hung upon the female's lips, almost not entirely sure where the Feraligatr was going with his story. Sitting up somewhat, she would listen with intense worry visible upon her visage.

As the story carried on, Pyrrha's gaze fell downcast. "Ah..." However, his final words were quite jarring. "Scared...? I... am not entirely sure I understand the situation. Why would defending a village... I don't understand how she could do it in a manner that's dangerous to herself and others. I can see that you're worried, but... unless you're hiding something from me, I cannot see what you could be worried about..."

[Town Path - F8]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
When Lilisette brought up the one Pokémon that could fit his vague description, Devon crossed his arms and pondered the thought as she continued to speculate. Gardevoir...They're tall, they don't have claws, tails, fur, or scales....Just skin and normal hands. That actually seems....vaguely familiar.....I doubt I was a suped up Ditto though. That's not ringing any bells.

Looking back at Ember and Selena, the Totodile simply shrugged and smirked confidently. "Well, according to Lilisette, I have some sort of special power. I don't really know how to use it yet, but if what I'm up against is anything like time stopping, I'd better learn quick."

Once the stairs were pointed out by the local grass dino, Devon quickly turned around to poke his head down the hall and nod. "Yeah, it looks like there's a hole in the floor over there. Let's check it out...." Pausing for a moment, the tiny croc looked back down the hallway from where they came from. A questioning glance being given by Brick as the croc began to sniff the air and squint his eyes in suspicion. "Does anyone else smell that? It smells like musty fur. Sort of like some of the bedrooms in the Guild. I know it's not you Ember, because the only thing I can smell on ya is smoke."

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

@Ninian
Shaking his head quickly, Raiden put the cup down on the table and rubbed his forehead. "Let me go into detail. I'm scared, because the strategies she's using to protect that village are just causing more problems and making her lose sight of what actually matters. The Outlaws only strike the village at seemingly random intervals, full on raids. And Lilith has taken to going into nearby Dungeons and brutally interrogating random Pokémon living inside to try to find out if there is a pattern to the raids. She's antagonizing groups that don't need to be, and I fear that we'll soon have more problems than just that one Outlaw gang if she keeps it up."

Sighing, he went on. "She's also become obsessed with gaining power. She's started to see the Outlaw gang's leader as more of a rival than a complete enemy. She trains near constantly, never takes breaks, and is starting to take her allies for granted. If they can't keep up with her in a fight, they're worthless." His orange eyes dipped down to the floor, a deep frown dipping his maw.

"I just...I just want to do something to get her to wake up and listen to reason. I know there's other things we can do, but she just doesn't want to hear it. She doesn't believe that anything I say will work."

[Folio Town - Town Square]

@Shiny Keldeo
The Dragon gave a tired sigh before hopping down from his make-shift podium. A thankful smile being shot at the red and white furred wolf currently stretching his legs next to him. "Ah...Thank you for your assistance Rocko. You're free to go about your assignments for the day."

Flashing a toothy grin at his Guildmaster, the Lycanroc rolled his arm and turned to stroll off, taking a moment to wave a paw at the approaching lions. "No problamo, Guildmaster! Oh, hi Fuse."

Turning to face the Luxio pair with a concerned frown, Glyph met Hikari's gaze as she spoke. If she wishes not to fight, I'll understand completely....This is quite a lot to ask from anyone.

However, the Flygon's doubtful thoughts were soon completely pushed away as the Electric-type went on. An awed smile spread across his green maw as Glyph began to chuckle. Though it didn't last for very long, as he soon turned his head towards the three familiar voices. My goodness....Brute...Leanne....Kyla....To see so many give their efforts, it truly warms my heart.

A proud grin came upon the Guildmaster's face as he nodded to Brute, then looked down at Hikari. "Of course you can join the Guild Hikari. We'll be happy to have you aboard." His eyes closed gently. "Thank you, everyone. You can't even begin to imagine how proud I am of you all."

[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
"My, my, it didn't take you long at all." The words called out from the room behind the group, and in a few moments, an Absol stepped through, a smirk playing across his maw. "Musty fur? I'm certain I smell a lot better than that."

Tensing up, the Kirlia turned on a heel, ready to attack the unknown Pokémon. "Have you been following us!?"

At Lilisette's outburst the Absol grinned, licking his lips, "No, no. I was heading to Gerudo, and appear to have departed at the same time as you have." Waving a paw he'd continue, "You can drop your guard~ I have no intention of harming you."

Still not listening to the Absol's words, Lilisette prepared an attack.

Continuing forwards towards the staircase, the Dark-type shrugged off her hostility, "Tsk, tsk."

[Altepa Desert]

@Ninian

With a quick nod, Piper took the cloth and let out one more raspy cough before tying it around her neck, adjusting it to cover her mouth. She furrowed her brow at the sight of her partner in pain but she remained quiet, only giving a nod to his response. Gently wiping the tears from her eyes, she listened to his rambling, frowning underneath the silk fabric of her scarf as he began to apologize.

She waited for the right time to interject before shaking her head and quietly walking over to him. "Don't apologize... It isn't your fault..." Tenderly, she placed a soft paw on his lower leg and looked up at him, her eyes crinkling in their usual friendly manner. Perking up with optimism, she continued. "I've been through things like this before! Just not with someone else... It honestly feels better... I mean, now I have someone to cover me!" Meeting his eyes, she nodded once more. "And I'm alright, I've been through worse, hehe."

After giving his leg a light comfortingly pat, she moved her paw away and looked around the ruins, noting their choice of corridors. "Hm... Well, a dungeon might have weaker Pokemon because there's no way they'd be able to survive out in the sandstorm... buuuut then again, they could also be stronger... It's a fifty fifty gamble there..." She looked back to Alodi then to the storm raging above them. "Staying here would leave us with the potential of being surrounded by stronger one, but if we each defend a side, then I think we could handle it... What do you think?"

[Altepa Desert]

@MankeyMankey
Raising a brow, the fox looked over Piper with a rather confused expression. Almost as if he wasn't used to be complimented. His confusion transmuted into slight embarrassment when the kitten patted his leg. Eyes wide, he felt his face flush under his fur. "...A-Ah..." A small smile then played across his maw as his gaze fell downcast. However, the smile soon turned into a frown as he began to think of how they might escape their predicament.

"Hmmm... I believe the choice boils down to whether we want to fight Sandstorm agitated Pokémon, or Pokémon that were possibly provoked in other ways. What to do, what to do..."

Closing his eyes, he considered everything for a moment. "I will leave the choice to you. I'm fairly certain we will be attacked here if we linger for too long, but as you mentioned we could position ourselves in a way that would prevent us from being surrounded. However, if we enter a dungeon, we have a fairly good chance of being able to relax. Most dungeons within ruins have sort of a staging area... it's more often than not devoid of danger."

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

@Light Lord
Gaze downcast, the Embrace Pokémon listened to the Water-types explanation. Finally, she managed a sad reply, "...I see. I'm sorry.." Looking up with misty eyes she'd continue, "I wish... I wish there were something I could do to help, but... I suppose an ear is all I'm good for..." A sorrowful chuckle escaped her lips, "I hope... I really do hope you can get through to her. That all sounds terribly dangerous..."

@Ninian @Light Lord
[Team Horizon - Folio Guild]
[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

When the voice came from behind them, Ember quickly jumped to the rear to face the unknown Pokemon with Selena. As the Absol walked by, they kept their guard up the same as Lilisette, very untrusting of this Pokemon. Keeping their voices hushed, they conversed about the Absol. "I've never seen him before... where did he come from?" Ember asked. "I don't know... I know an Absol came into town with a team, but this guy is different... I don't trust him." She replied.

As the Absol moved onward, Selena turned to Brick. "Have you ever seen him in town before?" She asked, Ember keeping her eyes on the Absol has he headed for the stairs.

[Team Daybreak - Folio Guild]
[Folio Town]

Hikari beamed when Glyph accepted her as a Guild Member. Normally she would literally be jumping for joy right about now, but with the situation at hand, she kept a calm demeanor. "Then you and I are partners again, Ligero... but don't we need a team name?" She said, with a puzzling look on her face. "Well... what about what you were saying earlier? You said you'd train from Daybreak to Nightfall, and Daybreak has a nice ring to it..." He had to say no more. "I love it! That's it! Daybreak, Team Daybreak!" She exclaimed.

As the two lions talked among themselves, the Parents continued speaking to Glyph. "Now's not the time to get all mushy and sentimental on us Glyph, just point us where you need us to go and we'll get to work. It'll be just like the old days..." He said, Leanne nodding. "Whatever ways we can help, we'll do it." She replied. Kyla merely nodded, everything needed to be said having been said.

[Team Sanctuary - Valiant Village Guild]
[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

"So what are you sensing, anyways?" Krystal asked, looking up at Omen. "Danger. What else? Someone, I don't know who, but someone is in danger in here." He said, closing his eyes. "The darkness is almost the same as what lies below us." Serenity's expression changed from confused to worried now. "So whatever's going on, it has to do with what's coming?" She asked. "I'm not sure, all I know is that this is what my instincts are telling me to do." He replied, continuing through the maze of tunnels and rooms searching for the next set of stairs.

[Town Path - F8]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
The owner of the odd scent quickly made their physical appearance as they stepped into the hall. Much like his friends, Devon whipped around to face their stalker and stare then down. An uneasy frown going across his maw as the Absol's body language and attitude didn't convince him in the slightest. He was following us, no doubt. He's not trying to hide that at all....almost like he'd want us to know. What's this guy's deal? Is he with Lilith?

When the strange Absol strode past them, the Water-type's tail flicked to the side. "We're not dropping our guard in a Dungeon, sorry. We've got a mission to do."

The Poliwrath had since straightened himself up and gotten a bit closer to the team of novice Explorers upon the Absol's appearance, his beady dead serious stare locked on the odd Pokémon even as Selena spoke. "No. I've never seen him in my life. He's here for something, and there's a good chance that something could be Devon. Keep going, but watch yourselves. We should try our best to stay ahead of him."

Gripping the strap of his bag, the Totodile continued forwards down the hall after the Absol. His slow walk turning into more of a brisk jog. "Right. If he actually isn't here for us, then he won't care if we make some distance." Making his way into the room with the stairs, he waved casually at the suspicious Dark-type before heading down the stairs once everyone had caught up.

[Folio Town - Town Square]

@Shiny Keldeo
Glyph chuckled at the newly dubbed Guild member's excitement. "A wonderful name you two. It fits you both well. Fuse, I trust you to show Hikari the ropes for the work we do. You can take her into the Town Path if you wish as well."

Swiftly turning around to face the hulking Venusaur once again, the Guildmaster raised his chin up and spoke. "Yes, you're right. I'm being silly. There are two things you can do. One, you can join in the evac parties and start alerting the residents in the Bloomingdale branch, or you may head out into the Glimmerstone Shard Dungeon to the east of town. Kyla, I would like for you to stay along side Leanne and Brute. Any questions?"

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

@Ninian
Still staring at the floor, the scarred Feraligatr mumbled quietly. "More than you can imagine...."

Grabbing hold of the wood cup, Raiden tilted his head back and quickly downed the tea in seconds before promptly standing and securing his bag. Purposefully avoiding eye contact with the Psychic dancer. "I...I'm sorry. I shouldn't have dropped all of that on you Pyrrha. It was rude of me to drag you into my problems. I-I should go. You can have the rest of the tea."

[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F8]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
Rolling his eyes, the Absol kept pressing forward, though he was very keenly listening to the group's hushed whispers. Do they seriously think I cannot hear them?

A grin widened upon the Dark-type's muzzle, "So you're on a mission~? How wonderful. Judging by the Poliwrath with you, I'd take it that it's your first? Well, good luck of course." Glancing back at Devon he'd continue, "You're wise not to trust me. Though, as I said, I'm not here to cause harm."

The group converse amongst themselves, causing the Absol to shake his head, "I hope you realize I can hear you."

Ugh... what is that guy's problem!? He must be after Devon, but... If I attack him... Wilting considerably, Lilisette gave up on powering up an attack, hanging her head somewhat, but keeping her eye on the potentially dangerous individual. "...we probably shouldn't get ahead of him. Having him at our backs makes us more vulnerable..."

"Clever girl~ She's right, you know. Having your backs to a dangerous Pokémon is asking to get killed! Not that I would attack you, but you certainly do not seem to believe me.

[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F7]

Following the group down the stairs, he'd look around. "Hmm, it's still clear. How odd."

[Folio Town - Outside Sibyl's Retreat]

Making his way through the Residential District at a brisk pace, the Heliolisk took a few glances around him to ensure he was not being followed. After a minute or so, the Heliolisk came upon the tall tower that housed the Sibyl.

The two Grovyle who guarded the entrance looked upon the Heliolisk with some concern. "Robel...? I figured you would be at the meeting."

Furrowing his brows, the Electric-type replied, "Had I time, I would be. However, I need immediate audience with the Sibyl."

"We can let you through, but that doesn't mean you'll make it past Semih..."

Letting out a groan, the Heliolisk passed through the thick stone doors. "That's a chance I'll have to take."

[Sibyl's Retreat]

Once inside the building colloquially referred to as Heaven's Tower, he made his way through the tower's various levels. He then found himself stopped on the level before his destination.

"Ah, look what we have here. A male. Who exactly are you, and how did you even get in?"

Frowning, the Heliolisk pushed through the Braixen who attempted to block him, "I don't have time for this Lissa."

The Fire-type responded with confused shock as Robel casually named her, and brushed her off. "What the hell!? How do you know who I am?!"

"I'm not going to answer that. Leave me alone, I have business with the Sibyl."

With that, the Heliolisk ascended to the final level. A lone Lopunny stood before the door, her hands on her hips.

[Team Horizon - Folio Town Guild]
[Folio's Trunk - Town Path F7]

With some unsure glances, the two continued with the group down to the next floor. The Absol was quick to follow, the two still keeping an eye on them as the group continued onward. Ember retook her position farther ahead of Selena, while she stayed near the rear with Brick. The pain in her leg still hadn't subsided, but instead was beginning to increase, albeit slowly. It was still manageable, but for how long she wasn't sure. For now, she'd continue to keep it to herself, surely it would eventually subside.

There wasn't much to say for now, the tension had somewhat raised with the Absol's appearance. But, as the possible stalker had stated, there seemed to be no Dungeon Dwelling Pokemon so far. However, they couldn't let their guard down, especially with a would be attacker behind them.

[Team Daybreak - Folio Town Guild]
[Folio Town]

Fuse nodded in response to the Guildmaster's request, then shot a glance of sudden realization at the Dragon Type. "I should probably get her some gear first. Also... there's a slight issue... the Job Board in the Guild is completely blank." He said, Brute staring at him wide eyed. "You're joking, right? Never in all my time as a Guildie has that board EVER been blank. Man... things are really getting weird around here..." He said.

Moving towards the Guild, Hikari waved Fuse on. "Come on then, we can at least get whatever I need, then we can figure out what to do!" She said enthusiastically. "She's got a point, no sense for us to stand around wondering. Once I've got her set up, we'll come back and figure out what to do next. We'll be back." He said, starting off after his partner.

When given their assignment choices, Leanne spoke up first. "The Citizens of Folio are our first priority. That's something you never forget. Right, Brute?" She said, Brute carefully thinking about the choice. "Well... yeah, as much fun as my first Dungeon Crawl in years would be, Citizen Safety comes first. We'll head for Bloomingdale." He said. "I'll follow your lead then." Kyla said, the group of three quickly heading for the far reaches of the Folio Residential District.

[Folio Town - Hidden Grotto]

Only moments after Robel had passed out of sight, a figure came stumbling out of the Folio Underbrush that covered the Hidden Grotto. The figure raised its hand as the light of day gleamed into its eyes, as if it was its first time in sunlight in quite a long time. Turning towards the main town, the figure's gaze fell upon the direction of the Folio Guild. Destination set, the figure began stumbling towards town, in a seemingly weak but determined state.

[Town Path - F8 → Town Path - F7]

@Shiny Keldeo@Ninian
As he made his way past the Absol and was called out for the plan, the Water-type simply shrugged off the comment and kept moving down the hall with a smirk. "Duh, but if you actually aren't stalking us, then it doesn't matter."

When Lilisette brought up the disadvantage to having the possible enemy behind them, the chilling reply given by the Dark-type in response caused Devon to flat brow and give an unimpressed glance over his shoulder at him. "You know, when you say things like that, you're not really helping your case dude."

And also as the creepy canine said that, the Poliwrath took up his place behind the Absol and appeared to intentionally leer over his shoulder with his large beady eyes and crossed bulging arms.

Devon hopped off of the mossy wood staircase and swiftly took in his surroundings by craning his neck around the current room. Instead of the oddly dry and sandy atmosphere of the eighth floor, the seventh floor looked a bit more lively. Vines hung from the ceiling and moss stretched across bits of the floor and walls. "This floor looks a lot less dead than the other one. Random's definitely a good word to describe this place...." The Totodile commented as he continued turning, until his slit brown eyes caught on something shinning in the low light. A small, blue tear drop giving off a dull glow as it lay by itself on the soft green floor. A wide curious grin spread across his maw as he walked over to pick up, and inspect the tiny stone. "Whoa....No way! Guys! I think I found an Emera!"

"ISEENITFIRST!"

A blur of suddenly swooped down from the ceiling, going straight towards the excited Totodile and colliding with him at full speed. Devon yelped as he tumbled along the ground and landed on his back before the staircase again. His eyes spinning around in his head as the purple bat-like mon snatched the blue gem out of his hands and repeatedly poked his snout with a claw. "Ha! Snooze you lose bud! The gem's mine! I just knew I'd find one of them someday! This is gonna be so awesome." The bat stated as he rubbed the glowing stone against his cheek.

[Town Path - F8]

@Shiny Keldeo
"Excuse me, but do you mind if I ask for a bit of direction?"

Behind the group of cautious Explorers, a large red crocodilian waved at them as he walked over to them. A tattered bag strapped around his waist and jostling with every step and sway of his tail. Stopping before the group, he smiled casually. "You came from Folio Town am I right? You wouldn't have happened to see a Feraligatr covered in scars there would you?"