The Tale of Seven: The Summon of Sorrow

[Rikugurl]

"I am fine now, thanks to you, little one." Giratina thanked, now just hovering in front of the trio.
"What happened?" The smaller shaymin questioned, needing to know for their sake and for the sake of Giratina's best friend back at home. Never had he seen him act like that before, not even when Dialga was making a stink before his time.
"Shaymin had been attacked in the field by a ruthless man. When my dear friend fell, I intervened, needing to teach him a lesson. It was a man I recognized, seeing him in reflections and only doing good. I did not understand why he had changed and thought if I could teach him a lesson, he would see what he did wrong. My plan backfired, as all the human spoke of was agony given to mankind by pokemon and that I was no better if I wished to smite him. He said that it was pokemon that took away his happiness and that he would return the favor. Then, much like your human there upon your back, a disc wrapped around me, encasing me in horrible feelings and agitation. I was thrown into a pit of rage as he fled down, down, down into the depths of my world, as if he knew I kept something very important there."

The shaymin swallowed, not liking the sound of where this was going. "What do you mean? What did he do then?" That was when Giratina confirmed it.
"When the world was drowning from the rage of Lugia, I came to Shaymin's help, knowing he needed a high ground to save the flowers that he was able to save. Back then, the ground where I let the flowers lie was up but as you know the nature of this world, it is now located lower. There is still a patch of flowers there, to remind me of the past. It is also the place where I kept the flute."
"The.... flute? You don't mean... the Azure Flute, do you?"
"I am afraid so, little one. He took it and in a flash, disappeared into one of the many portals floating about. Because of my rage, I could not grab him back because if I did, I would prove his foul words right..."

This was bad.
"I have to tell the others..."

Draco knew what that meant and reluctantly, he flew away from the mighty dragon and back up to the team awaiting him. When Sammy landed, Lucina was instantly at his side but as usual, his assistant grabbed his attention first when be started to recite what the legend told him.
"Y-you mean... we're too late?" Roxel shivered, huddling close to Tensai.

[Reno]

Like Lucina, Sanyi rushed over, but instead to his poor dragon, reaching out and running his hand along his wings, feeling the warmth in them. But even he had to freeze when he heard the news Shaymin had to share with them.

Kuku had the flute...

He had the flute and the Jewel of Life.

The cheer that was once there was instantly filled with despair. It was over. They were too late. They wasted all that time... why did they stop in the forest? Why did they pause to watch that tape?! All that wasted time... How could they put their friends lives on the line like that...?

A pale hand reached up, running along the smooth body of a small, eight-legged creature. "No..." Kadaj said softly, before shaking his head, looking up at them. He was pleaded to find the world was no longer so indiscreet. But he no time to be weak now. He wasn't losing Loz, not again... "Kuku hasn't made his demand."
It took a second for those words to register, but Lucina nodded suddenly. "Right! The Pokemon are still here! We still have a chance. If there is a chance, even a small one, we need to keep going!"
"But how? We need to find him." Sanyi spoke up. "And half of our traveling Pokemon are exhausted! But Kuku won't waste time resting... we can't either. How are we going to...?"
"If we just knew where he was going to summon Arceus... But Tensai, you don't even know do y- Ten?" Roxanne said

People turned to the black-haired boy in concern. "Damnit..." He was hunched a bit, his eyes shut and teeth grit hands pulling at wild tangles in his hair. Darkrai gave him everything he needed! Something there had to be SOMETHING. A distinguishing mark. A statute. Anything!
But all he could see was that dark, indistinguishable room before the lights seem to turn on, a blaring white. White all around. Pure and holy. He saw the masked Kuku walking forward, raising the flute to his lips. Heard the dangerous song as his fingers moved, a reflection in the floor following his exact motions.

There was nothing. Nothing at-
"How did you get to the reverse world anyways daddy?" A Young Tensai asked one day as he was tying his dad's long silver hair up in bows. He didn't seem to mind as he read the newspaper.
"Hmm? Oh, Giratina brought us there from a mirror... he can look through any reflective surface and can transport things or people from them."
Kuku's reflection in the floor....
"......Oh Arceus......" He whispered his hands falling limp as he looked up, his pupils dilated. "The floor.... is made of glass.... The floor is..." He looked up towards Giratina, his heart racing. "Giratina can find him and bring us straight to him!"

[Rikugurl]

"Nothing like waiting for the last minute..." Gunnar frowned, making Tensai faulter a bit but to everyone's surprise, it was Roxel who spoke up, crossing his arms. "Why, do you have a better idea, Gunnar?"
The brunette blinked, gritting his teeth some and was about to snap back when he felt a hand on his arm, the touch cold but electrifying. Sea green eyes look to his left, seeing a pair of glowing look right at him. Maybe... maybe Tensai's idea was the best. He knew Sal was burned out and there was no telling where in the world Kuku had gone to.

Shaymin was the first to turn to the large creature still flying over their location. "GIRATINA!" He called, grabbing the ghost's attention, making him glide close, his massive head peering into the tunnel where the teensagers found shelter. "We need you to help us find that man. He's going to be in a place where the floors are made of glass."
The ghost took in the information and again, made a noise of recognition. It seemed that Giratina knew where this place was. Confusin ran over the team like wave when the dragon pulled away from their location, floating around but slowly came back, his large grey and yellow body pulling close to the enrence of the tunnel.

Everyone yelped when there was a crash, some rocks falling overhead, making some duck and back away. They didn't know Giratina had sunk his ghostly appendages against the tunnel to stable him but Shaymin knew just what was up. "Come on, hurry! We need to get on his back!" Shaymin called, and even though Sammy was a little reluctant about getting on Giratina again, he felt a tug on his shirt, making him look into the eyes of Lucina as she was the first to walk over and climb on. The purple eyed boy watched her, trying not to lose himself with that perfect view of her cute butt. Quickly he snapped out of it, grabbing his assistant and rushed after her.

One after the other, the team climbed up onto the ghost, trusting that he would not phase out like he did to poor Sammy. With some help, Gunnar walked Kadaj to the dragon, helping him lift up and Bonnie and Tensai pulled him on. Gunnar was the last to mount the beast, becoming a little unbalanced when the dragon pushed off and floated away. Now that they were off that crazy ride known as walking around the reverse world, it only got a bit better for Roxel flying through it. What caught everyone's attention now where the bubbles that floated by, seeing the reflections of places all over the world. When they passed them, they could hear the faint voices and sounds coming from that moment in time.

Giratina flew by them though, aparently on a mission to find the right orb. Or so they thought until they came upon one that was larger then the rest and glowed brightly, nearly giving the area all it's light. From what they could all see in the reflection was a very bright room with a single figure walking across the tiles, only wearing the color of death with a murkrow on his shoulder.

[Reno]

It looked like they were down to the wire already, as Tensai looked in the reflection, his eyes dark. "That's him." But it didn't really need to be said. They knew, even those who never met him or saw Arluin before. They knew exactly who he was. "Thank you Giratina. You've helped the world so many times, now it's our turn. Please, open the portal." Tensai asked, rubbing the thick skin of the dragon's back. There was a cry, and then a screech, the sound waves seeming to open the bubble up and turning it into a portal. They all started to stand up, but hesitated before jumping.

"This is it." Lucina spoke but it too did not need to be said. They realized all at once. This was what it had all come down to. Now, they couldn't fail. So close to their goal... Inside of them, anger and determination flared. She looked around at them all, these people who were here with her today and tomorrow... it might not be. So, she did something a little silly. She gripped Sammy by the collar of his shirt and tugged him closer. "Tomorrow. Tomorrow you'll teach me about being a ranger. Promise me." She knew it was silly, but she felt if he promised it, then tomorrow would be here and everything would be fine.
He seemed to blush but Shaymin happily answered for him. She smiled. "Good." And then she kissed him.

They watched the two for a moment, some of them smiling grimly, knowing this could also be their last goodbye.

Sanyi took a breath before turning and facing Namine. She had a strange expression on her face. "Are you alright, Miss Namine?" She looked at him, before finally mumbling that she was scared. But, it made him smile. "Namine... you are a braver than you think. I'm going to see you become the best nurse Joy ever. I just know it." He grinned, "You'll make your dream come true. You don't even need me to help I bet - but I'm here for you even if you don't."

Roxanne looked down, feeling a hand encircling hers, the skin much darker in tone. She looked up towards Bonnie, their eyes saying so much when they had time to say so little. But here and now, Roxanne knew... if this was the end she was glad to be facing it with Bonnie by her side. So she said the only thing she could at this moment, a sentiment they never shared before. "Bonnie... I love you."

"Xel." Roxel, who had been preoccupied thinking of how dangerous this was, suddenly looked over at Tensai. How could he be so calm? The black-haired boy looked at Roxel and smiled, "This whole trip... it's been so quiet." Quiet?! It had been anything but! "...I haven't heard you and your Pokemon play for us this whole time. So tomorrow, you've got to alright? This world just isn't right without your guys' music filling it."

Standing a little astray from them, Kadaj and Gunnar looked at them all. The hand, which of course Gunnar offered to help him stand yet again, was like a burning presence on his shoulder as it held him steady. But unlike everyone else seemed to, Kadaj didn't have a clue what to say or if their was anything to say at all. But, as he looked through a couple of locks of liquid silver hair up towards the other, he was very aware of the fact he was blushing again.

[Rikugurl]

"R-really? Of course!" The little Shaymin agreed. Sammy was in desperate need of a friend and from the little bits and pieces that he saw of Lucina, he could tell that she had the passion and strength to become a fine ranger if she wanted to. It was just something else he didn't see coming. That was the kiss. His little green eyes widen when she saw the girl pull her master close as if she was a ragdoll and pressed her lips on his own, making his purple eyes widen. Well, she was definately fearless! Samael's cheeks flashed a bright red, feeling her soft, tasty lips on his. It must have been poffin flavored chapstick.

His heart fluttered and melted inside his chest, his legs feeling more weak now than when he had fallen to the depths below. Before he could think, react or breath, she pulled away, showing him the cutest blush he ever did see. Now he was feeling guilty about staring at her butt...

Namine blinked but smiled, blushing as well. Sanyi was really the only person she met who continued to praise her and her quest to be a Nurse Joy. It felt like he ever had more confidence in it than her parents! Even herself! She couldn't hold back a giggle as she wrapped her arm around her. "I'll be one of those special nurses who will get to watch the clouds up in the clouds with my great dragon-master boyfriend~" They didn't even need to go out! The bluette swooned her enough to make her fall head over heels for him. Sanyi was shocked at the meantion of 'boyfriend', completely missing how her face came close to his, their lips sealing.

Bonnie closed her eyes and smiled, hearing her girlfiend's words. Danty hands reached out, running through Roxy's soft hair, minding the barretts. "I love you too, Roxy..." She whispered, bringing her lover close and kissed her forehead. Once this was all over, they would need some serious time to be together. This journey, though short, showed her how much she wanted, needed Roxanne in her life. It was as though she completed it. Besides, she still needed something from the blonde. "Tomorrow, we have our first pokemon battle~" She chirped, making Roxy laugh.

"Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeh, you don't wanna hear my music. We haven't practiced!" Roxel pouted but was hugged, only able to hug Tensai back. "Haha, alright then! At least I'll know you'll always remember it in that camera head of yours!" Unknown to Roxel, that wasn't quite how it worked but Tensai wasn't going to burst his bubble now. "Maybe we can play a song for every gym badge you win?"

Gunnar, this time, saw the blush, making a side of his lips pull up in a shy smile. What exactly happened that night sparked something for the two, and even that moment in the forest was hard to explain. Gunnar couldn't pin point it, obviously not thinking of one thing about Kadaj that could have possibly rubbed him the right way. The guy steals his wallet, blows a fuse, teases him with his stupid spider and...
An eyebrow rose. Heh, maybe that was it. Maybe Kadaj was his rival, one that actually made HIM feel like the whimp and he admired that power. Freak or not.

Slowly, he leaned over and grinned. "How about we visit Sabrina tomorrow? You can find some answers and I can get a badge~" It wasn't the most romantic thing to say but Gunnar was eager to help the silverette find some closure or whatever he needed with Sabrina. Their own lips met for a moment, sharing a quick kiss before anyone could notice before Gunnar pulled away. He was glad he did too because he would have probably fell over Kadaj from the sudden screech Giratina let out. They needed to go. They had wasted enough time.

Everyone looked away from their half, all looking at Tensai. He was the one with the vision so he was secretively elected to go through the portal first. But not alone. The boy felt a hand in his, the fingers squeezing his tightly as wild eyes looked into his own. "Let's save the world, Ten-chan."

[Reno]

Roxel's only response was a smile and a nod, orange eyes full of determination as he walked forward, Roxel following him. They shared one last look, before together they jumped in. And like that, they were gone. But the others weren't far behind, Roxanne hurrying to follow her brother with Bonnie in tow, and Sanyi following after with Namine. Sammy and Lucina were quick to rush after and finally Gunnar and Kadaj stepped through... leaving the reverse world as empty as it was before.

At first, Tensai wasn't sure where they were or what was going on. Their was no sound and he hardly felt Roxel's presence any longer. He felt his body being tugged upwards, towards a circle in the ceiling. He reached out, more in instinct then anything, and his fingers curled around the edge. He felt himself pulled through, able to come out of the floor on his feet, Roxel a little more uncoordinated beside him. But he managed to tug him up beside him. They almost got shoved out of the way though - and by none other than Bonnie who was also coming out of the portal. One by one, their friends followed. Gunnar was again last, the portal closing and showing nothing but the sheen of the glass floor around them once more.

Around then was a huge hallway, so tall it would take a thousands Wailords to make a wall from floor to ceiling. And everything was white, so pure and perfect it was as if nothing had even disturbed it and as if dust was not even permitted to enter these grounds. Finally, they could see what Tensai had seen. This place... it was amazing.

But they had no time to gawk at the sights. Roxanne spotted him first, looking over her shoulder to see the black-coated man walking without any knowledge he had guests. She turned around and walked forward suddenly, making the other's turn around. The sound of her footsteps made the bird on his shoulder look back and squawked. "KUKU!" The female rescuer yelled.
The man froze. And, as the others surrounded her, becoming like an defensive line bent on halting the other, he turned around. They didn't recognize him; the mask on his face hid his features. But nothing could change the bird on his shoulder - distinctive in her own ways.

"Tuh-dah! She's all better!" Roxy said with a big smile on her face, holding the small crow up by her body and up to Kuku. Poor Arluin's feathers, so easily rustled, were now a mess as she was wrapped up almost mummy-like for her 'broken' wing. "I did it right, see? Daddy taught me!"
"Hehe," The tall, skinny man was amused and Axel was blushing a bit, trying to hid it behind a sip of coffee. "I think you did wonderfully." He lied, "But Arluin wasn't hurt."
"No, but it never hurts to be prepared!" The girl nodded, setting the crow, who was handling this all fairly well even though she couldn't really move, on Kuku's leg and smiled as she was pat on the head. "Now when she does get hurt, she'll already be all better!" She turned and hurried out of the room, sure to be back with her next triumph.
"Sorry. She always gets so excited when you two are around." Axel admitted finally, still a bit embarrassed.
"Yes. But her heart is in the right place. She'll make a great rescuer one day." Kuku said.
Neither knew Roxanne had paused just outside of the living room, listening in. She smiled and hurried off.

"It is you, isn't it?" Roxanne said, regarding him warily and sadly. Her heart still wished this wasn't true. A rescuer... betraying everything that he once held dear. She had always admired Kuku and the late Eskel, almost as much as she admired her own fathers. They were some of the greatest rescuers of all time. Seeing him like this, ready to commit the worst crime this world had ever known, was like a harsh slap in the face. But she knew she couldn't dwell on idolism now; if he really was going to try to do this, she could never forgive him.

[Rikugurl]

The man indeed stopped and turned, facing the large group that had suddenly formed behind him. The doors to the entrance was clearly blocked off, only those who had the flute could enter. And yet, here these children stood, as if being here was a norm for them. Did they not realize just where they were? The most sacred place in all the world?
It was the lead's voice that threw him off, making his masked face turn to the blonde staring at him intently. He knew her. He knew her rather well. He knew her because he pretty much watched her grow up, almost being like a second father to the girl or at least a close uncle.

Most of all, she was a rescuer. The daughter of the nephew of the woman who founded the Pokemon Rescuers. She was a great rescuer, though young, her spirit and dedication was true.

But none of that mattered now.
Slowly, the figure in black reached a bony, pale hand to his face, pulling off the macabre mask.
"Nah..." Roxel's eyes widened, seeing just who was behind it.
There he was, standing before them, the greatest rescuer that had ever lived. Well, one of the greats. He specialized in Dragon-types, making him quite the powerful---
The boy froze, thinking something over. Kuku specialized in Dragon-types... and Giratina was a dragon. Was that really his work back there? Did Kuku truly aggravate him so much?

"Do not address me by that name." A cold voice shattered the group, everyone tensing as they stared at the man. His physic was thin, withered and drained of life. His eyes were sunken in, dark bags under them and hard to see their true color. His skin was pasty, sticking to his skin like a plague. His lips were pale, chapped and cracked, some scabs left behind from where they had bled. And his hair, stringier than ever, it's color lost to a paleness with split ends and damaged roots. It looked as though he no longer had a reason to live.

"Is it because... Eskel call you that?" Roxel tested but wish he hadn't when a spiteful snarl echoed through the room, a violet display setting out before them all when the man gripped a pokeball form his belt and slammed it down. A red beam materialized a large pokemon, it's roar fierce. Without being given a command, the Magmortar pointed it's cannon-like arm towards the group, everyone watching it as it started to glow. "WATCH OUT!" Namine cried and the group started to run, finding shelter behind the rows of white pillars just as the pokemon used Fire Blast. The powerful attack licked the glass floor, though not burning or damaging it at all. Patches of fire were still lit around, making an eerie picture of Kuku's frame beyond the flames as he continued to walk towards a center alter.

"Tch..." Bonnie's eyes narrowed and she growled, snapping her own pokeball from her belt and pressing a button. Roxy could hear a pop, a blue light making a Floatzel appear. "Water Gun!"
"ZEL!" The spunky, metrosexual acting Pokemon did a little twirl, sending powerful blasts of water around the room, putting out all the fire.

[Reno]

Unfortunately, though the attack stopped the fire, it didn't stop the rampaging Pokemon! They didn't have time for a battle.

"If Kuku gets to that room, it's over!" Tensai cried, his heart racing as another blast of fire tried to take over the room as Bonnie called Floatzel to dodge before he put out the fire again with
"If we could just get one of those items from him..." Sanyi grit his teeth, looking around the pillar.
Lucina looked around, knowing he was right. But with Magmortor in the way, they weren't getting through... unless... "Bonnie, does Floatzel know an ice type attack?" The woman said no - but her Gastrodon did! "Good, then I have an idea; Hurry up and listen!"

The plan was short, said hastily and only once, but there were nods of agreement. They had to try it.

So, Gunnar, Namine, Roxel, Tensai, Sammy and Sanyi hurriedly stepped out into the ground, spreading out as far as they could and making the Magmortor aim at them. It was another fire blast. The six didn't move. They didn't have to worry - Bonnie knew what to do as she called Gastrodon and called for her two Pokemon to attack. One shot ice beam, and the other shot water gun. The combined attack hit the flames, and the extreme heat combined with the freezing cold became steam, filling the area and blinding them from sight. Magmortor was confused, looking left and right for his opponents.

He never expected - "Loz, stringshot!"
"Hotaru, extreme speed!"
White webs shot out from the ceiling, circling around one of Magmortor's arms and pulling it upwards, locking it to point upwards. A little spinarak gave a smile as he hung upside down on the ceiling. In the next instant, a glowing horse went racing out of the fog and past the Pokemon on the left. Only two were riding her - Roxanne and Lucina. They were the lightest and picked up the most speed. But more so, this trick was for those who had excellent balance... because this became a rodeo game, which made them perfect players for this part.

They were on Kuku just as Arluin was giving another squawk of warning. Roxanne pulled the reigns hard, and they circled the man as if he were a barrel. They only had one chance, and Roxanne had to hold on tight and guide Hotaru. But Lucina, who was used to having one hand free when riding Tauros like a true bull-rider, had no trouble reaching out in their desperate spin.

She lent over and reached out, hand closed around a jewel. She heard the snap of the necklace just as they were pulling out of the circling. The Jewel of Life was theirs now!

[Rikugurl]

"What!?" Kuku snapped his head around when he felt the necklace being snapped away, only seeing a blur before his eyes. "Arluin!" The murkrow, however, was already flying after the two, the jewel sparkling in her eyes. Much like the Magmortar, she was fighting her own battles. She wasn't going to fight alone though. Another beam shot out and this time, a large Electivire appeared, not looking any too happy. Her eyes narrowed and suddenly, she slammed her yellow and black hands down, making shocks of electric skate across the glass floor. The attack was quick and sure enough, it licked the hooves of the fast pony, instantly paralyzing her.

With a slam, the ponyta fell on the floor hard, throwing his riders off. Just as they flew through the air, Arluin snatched the jewel from Lucina's grasp and flew towards the ceiling.
"Not on my dime!" Namine growled and for the first time, she grabbed a pokeball on her belt, throwing it out. Some took a moment to see just want pokemon she had and were shocked to see a Ursaring. Such a fierce pokemon for a dainty girl!
"Fake tears!"
Well, that move just fit perfectly.
The scary bear sat down and large drops of tears flew all over. "UUUUURRR! UUUUUUUUUURRR!"

A sad cry filled the large room, echoing off the high ceilings just so it reached the crow. Namine knew that Kuku had changed his heart... but his pokemon didn't. She was still a rescuer and what she'd learn, they would stop at nothing to help a pokemon in need. Sure enough, they all watched as the murkrow faltered, becoming flustered at the tears that she turned around and headed to the pokemon's aid. The next move was going to be tough because as a nurse joy, she swore that she wouldn't cause harm to any pokemon. She would have to break that vow... to save the world. "Rock Smash!" Just as the murkrow came close, the bear's tears instantly stopped, a powerful arm quickly glowing and everyone winced when they heard the impact.

The frail bird fell hard against the glass and ironically for Roxanne, her wing looked twisted upon the ground. Swirls erupted in her eyes and the Ursaring was called back, the nurse hurrying over to the poor bird. "Oh! I am so sorry!" She bit her lip, trying to hold back her tears as she picked up the little bird. The Jewel of Life fell from her beak though, Tensai grabbing it firmly.
Then they realized they had another problem: Electric storming about and Kuku was missing.

"YOU GUYS!"
They all heard the little call, seeing Sammy further away then all of them. "You fell for it!"
"WHAT!?" Gunnar snapped, helping his sister and Roxy while dodging some electric waves.
"He doesn't need the Jewel anymore! The Jewel is what got him into this place! He wanted to make it seem like he needed it! He's in the Hall of Origin! HURRY!"

[Reno]

"Ahhh!" The two girls cried out, being thrown into the ground hard. There would be plenty of bruises in the morning. Amazingly, it didn't crack, even as Hotaru, a nearly two-hundred pound horse, fell over. Roxanne blinked away the sparks of white in her eyes, hearing Lucina groan nearby. She looked towards the girl, but seeing the gem was gone from her hand and Murkrow was flying away with it. She shook her head, but a neigh made her look over in concern. "Hotaru!"

He had fallen right, just like her daddy's Rapidash had taught him how to, but he was still paralyzed. She reached up and recalled him just as she heard Gunnar running over, helping his sister and herself to their feet. Another shock of electricity scorching the ground nearby and if it wasn't for the brunette tugging her backwards, she probably would of gotten a nasty shock.

Meanwhile, Arluin was unconscious on the floor now, Tensai holding the jewel in triumph. "Don't worry Namine, she'll be okay." He said confidently, knowing Nimbus and Star had both once had broken wings. He didn't get to comfort her for long though before Skymin gave a call and drew their attention.

It was what he had to say that made them all stare in shock. He didn't need the jewel?
Tensai looked around, seeing Kuku truly was gone. "He even left Arluin?" He whispered, looking down at the now very injured bird. The bird that had been with the man longer than even Eskel - so loyal to him, even knowing that the end result would kill her too, made her stay by his side?

Anger flared in Tensai and he gripped the jewel tightly, feeling it's sharp edge cut into his skin.
He looked up, before he straighted and walked forward, stepping towards the electricity, unafraid even as a stray bolt came sparking right at him. It knocked him down, but he got up again.
'Ten-chan!' He heard Roxel yell, but he was alright even if his clothes were a little singed. That shock was nothing. He'd been hit by worse. Raichu had had more power in his little cheeks. Their problems only got worse when, with a cry, Magmotor shot fire up his arm, and freed himself from the string shot, ready to face the group again as well.
But Tensai wouldn't be stopped. He gripped two Pokeballs and threw them. "Lambert, Faber!" Two appeared. One was the familiar Noctowl that had once battled Gunnar's Pokemon. The other was a small Luxio, his eyes somewhat shut as if they had never completely opened from his younger years. "Lambert use charge! Bring the electricity to you!" There was a soft roar of understanding before the creature started to glow yellow. As if attracting the electricity in the area that Electrivire was shooting off, it came right for him, circling around him before he seemed to suck it into his body.

"Faber, Hynosis on Electrivire." The bird called and swooped forward, his eyes glowing red. In just a second, Electrivire was asleep and the last of the electricity disappeared.
"Discharge Lambert!"
"LUUUUUUX-IO!" A powerful electric attack flew at Magmortor hitting him hard. For such a small and frail looking Pokemon, he really had some power in him. The fire-type fell over as well, twitching a little. But Tensai didn't worry as he recalled his two friends and dashed forward. The others stood back a moment or two, surprised, but were quick to hurry after.

"KUKU. STOP!" Tensai was yelling as he entered the Hall of Origins, unsure if the music he heard playing was just the song he heard echoing from his vision or was true reality. Either way, their nightmares were about to come true.

[Rikugurl]

"W-w-w-w-wow...." Roxel's eyes widened as the flawless plan finished, sending Tensai on his way. It must be awesome to have Sora as a dad, he knew all these amazing tricks! He snapped out of his gaze when Bonnie and Roxy passed him, seeing Gunnar, Lucina and Sammy follow suit. He was about to follow them too but before he did, he looked back over his shoulder, seeing Namine still kneeling on the floor with Arluin in her hands. "Namine!?" He called but she looked up at him and shook her head. "Go, Roxel, Sanyi! I'm staying here with her... I need to right her wing before it's too late or... at least... I want her to be warm.... if she fades away..." Tears ran down her soft cheeks, her gentle fingers running through the rough black feather.

Roxel swallowed, seeing the true passion she had for Pokemon, even if they weren't even her own. It bright a smile to his face but before he could say anything the whole room started to shake and a light shot through the hall. "Shhhhhhhhhhhhi........." Roxel hissed, knowing he was too late but covering his eyes, he rushed towards the light, nearly tumbling over the stairs before he climbed up them on his hands and knees.


When Tensai reached the top of he flight, he saw more pillars and a floor of glass. Kuku stood in front of a grand tapestry, one that had several orbs in all different colors painted on it, ancient writing wrapped around them.
"I told you not to call me by that name." The blonde spoke, a frail hand moving to his side before he snapped his fingers together. To Tensai's shock and despair, the Jewel of Life was snatched from his hand from something above. Kuku's Drapion. The large ogre scorp pokemon scuttled away, dropping by his master's side and handed the Jewel over.

That was when the rest of the group appeared, minus three who were still downstairs.
"N-NO!" Gunnar cried but it was too late.
The oddly shaped flute was pulled up to the man's lips and he blew air through it, it's melody eerie but beautiful, majestic yet terrifying. And then it happened. Right before their eyes, they watched each orb glow on the piece of art before Kuku and the whole place began to shake. A light from the middle orb pierced through the halls, lighting the rooms with the brightest light any of them had ever seen. They were all forced to cover their eyes until the light dulled but what they saw in place of the tapestry made all the teens want to fall to their knees because what stood in it's place.... was Arceus.


They hardly heard Roxel stumble up the stairs to join them, all their senses narrowing in on the Creator.
"WHO HAS SUMMONED ME?"
A great, almighty voice boomed over their head, making some of them actual drop to their knees. But there was only one who didn't seemed worried by Arceus's appearance.
"I did." A cold voice followed and the they could all see the Jewel of Life being waved back and forth slowly, catching the pokemon's eye.

[Reno]

Most of them were in awe. They were in front of God. It was something no one ever believed possible on this realm; it was something said to only happen in the moment of passing on. But here he was. Few of them could help themselves as they bowed before the creature...

But when they heard Kuku and saw the jewel, they remembered why they were here. They had to act, NOW.
"GET HIM!" Lucina screeched. As one, the team was on their feet, running forward and looking ready to tackle him down. But they forgot one vital thing.
He had power over Arceus now.
Kuku gave an order to keep them back. And that was what Arceus did. An invisible barrier formed between then and as the teens crashed into it, they were knocked back by a powerful unseen force. Some of them screamed. Some of them tried to scream and had the air knocked out of them. They were all flung back, hitting the ground nearly twenty feet away.

Their yells made Sanyi panic as he raced up the stairs, his jaw dropped open in awe as he saw the great creature becoming larger and more real as he mounted the steps. Arceus....?! He was so busy staring up even as he met the last step, he didn't see the body until he literally tripped over it.
"AH!" He crashed down hard and groaned. But the second groan made him look back at who he he had stumbled over. "Gunnar! Hey, wake up!" He called, sitting up and scooting over to him, shaking him. He looked around himself and his eyes widened, seeing his friends and family in heaps around him. Kadaj was laying on his side, Spinarak, miraculously unhurt, chittering to him, but the silverette seemed somewhat unresponsive. Sammy was on his stomach, his hand shaking as he reached out for a little trembling white and green fluff, petting him. Lucina wasn't too far, her hair undone from her ribbon again, instead it lay in wild tangles around her. Ironically, Roxanne's hair too was free of her barettes and there was some blood running from her bottom lip. Bonnie has her back to him, her body slightly curled up as if she were in pain. Roxel was flat on his back, Tensai laying over him.
"G-Guys..." Tears welled in his eyes, slipping down his cheeks. He had promised to protect them; was this the best he could do? This was a nightmare.
"Xel..." He turned at the sound of his cousin's voice, seeing Tensai slowly. He heard a pained gasp from the red-head and heard him mutter 'Ten-chan'.

Tensai was looking down at him as if he couldn't believe this was happening. He looked up, meeting Sanyi's eyes, before they both, as one, looked back. Kuku was looking back at them, seeming satisfied that they would not try to stop him again, before he turned back to Arceus.
This... This couldn't be real. Darkrai had said... she had said they could stop this. They had done everything right; hadn't they? They were getting along, right up to the end. They did everything in their power to stop him. What more could they do?
Tensai took a pained breath, standing up and somewhat limping forward. He didn't get far before he stumbled to the ground, catching himself on his hands, his knees hitting the glass hard. Behind him, he could hear Sanyi trying to rouse everyone, trying to make sure they were alright.

Though, if Kuku got his way, it didn't matter if they were alright now or not. Everything... everything would be over. There was only one chance left; he had to talk him out of this. But could he really make him see reason?
"Sacha!" It was that name, Kuku's real name, that made him hesitate just as he was speaking to Arceus. He paused, and even turned around, meeting Tensai's eyes. He hadn't heard it many years because, other than for factual purposes in newspaper reports, it was never used. But Tensai remembered it.

Literally on his knees, he pleaded with the elder, "Please... I beg of you... don't do this. What... What can you possibly think will be accomplished by making this demand?"

[Rikugurl]

"Hault them, may they go no further." The eerie voice commanded and as if Arecus, God himself, was Kuku's own, the pokemon did obey. Red eyes glowed and an invisible shield rose, everyone hitting it almost at one, bouncing back as if they ran straight into a large strip of rubber. However, though the force shot they out with the same amount of power, they were all effected differently. The stronger they were physically, the more energy was sucked from their bodies. This was why some were completely knocked out while others moaned in weakness. Only Sanyi and Namine had strength yet but both were worried about what was in front of them, again, not seeing the big picture.

But one boy did.

"Ten-chan..." Blue and green eyes lidded, weakly trying to keep his focus on his struggling friend as he nearly crawled towards the mighty pokemon and the once brave rescuer.

"My divine..." The blonde, frail man spoke, his hand reaching up, shaking some before it pressed up against the God's nose. This was truly a blessing, to be standing here before his maker. He never dreamed of seeing the one who created all, let alone carry of piece of him and having him listen to his every word. "What a magnificent creature you are. Though, you have overseen a flaw in your creations."
The pokemon's eyes narrowed at the last bit, a low grumble admitting from it's unseen mouth.
"WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT, HUMAN? I SEE NO FLAWS IN MY MAKINGS."
"Of course not, my divine.... for you yourself are a flaw."

"Sacha!"

The man paused, which was probably the best for his interest as the large, four legged creature looked none too happy, though his gaze was still on the Jewel.
The blonde looked down at the black haired boy, seeing the pure pain the teenager was suffering before him. He heard his desperate question, and too Kuku's shock, it sounded like Tensai knew just what he was going to request of Arceus. But how...?
That did not matter now though because the flame in his heart was burning strong, his fingers clutching the Jewel tightly as visions appeared in his head. Ones that caused laughter to bounce through his brain, hearing the soft voice of a man he would never see again.

"You are too young to understand... or are you? Your parents...they are dead." The man's voice ran and though Tensai knew it was true, something about Kuku saying it made his eyes swell with tears. "They died because of Pokemon. If it was Lugia herself or another, if she were not here, you would be with them now. Forest were burned, villages and cities crumbled and sank. Thousands lost their life. Before that, Teams of all kinds took control over pokemon, making them destroy, wound and even kill innocent people around the world for their own dirty work... and even still, Pokemon killed thousands more with Pokerus. Pokemon poison, burn, electricute humans, thinking that we are to owe them something. We get in their way. We should be more careful."

The man paused, pure hate in his eyes. "People dedicate their lives to save these creatures... and for what? FOR WHAT!?" His voice boomed, making those who where still awake to flinch. "A happy glance... and then they are let back into the wild... to once again burn, poison, harm humans. To think that they can take and use the land at their own will, making us the true slaves to their nature? People may think we're cruel to put them in pokeballs... but they have put us all in a larger one, keeping us on our toes, fearing for our lives. What I am asking for... is the freedom mankind deserves. That no longer will we live in fear of these creatures and no longer will we die at their hands. Pokemon.... they are.... nothing but.... monsters."

Slowly, he turned his back on the boy, raising the Jewel over his head.

[Reno]

But before the man could speak, something peculiar made him pause yet again. It wasn't something he expected to hear. In fact, it wasn't anything anyone expected to hear. The sound of it sent chills down their spines.

Laughter.

Tensai was laughing, harsh little bursts of sounds that made his body shake and his ribs hurts. It made tears stream down his cheeks, and his fingers curl into fists on the ground. Breathlessly, he managed to ask, "That's it? You summon Arceus, the most powerful being in the entire universe, and that's... that's all you can say?!"

Slowly, with energy he probably shouldn't have, he managed to shift his legs underneath him until he could get to his feet. It was his very will that allowed him to stand. As Kuku turned around to face him again, he met blazing orange eyes as Tensai screamed, "IF THAT'S ALL YOU GOT YOU'RE THE MOST SELFISH PERSON I'VE EVER MET!"
His voice echoed off the walls, and as if it were the most powerful thing in the world, even more mighty then God, silence reigned in it's wake, everything frozen as they stared at the orange-eyed teen.

And in that silence, Tensai finally spoke. It, like his father told him too, came straight from his heart. "Do you think this is what people want?! Do you think this is what all of think?! Or - no of course not. I know what you're thinking. You think people are just disillusioned. You think once you make this wish, they'll see it your way; think life is so much better." He shook his head viciously.
"But you're wrong! Anyone who thinks that way is wrong! Life could never be better with Pokemon, because they are here with us to make life the way it is! Think Sacha, think. What would we do without them?! Even the tiniest Pokemon plays the most important role! The smallest Budew helps to pollinate the trees. The tiniest legendary keeps our air clean! The littlest Diglet-" He never got to finish before Kuku snapped it was because of them, those small insignificant creatures that Eskel was now dead.

"And... you think this is what Eskel would have wanted? You think he dedicated his life to protected Pokemon, to caring for them, to working with them, that he wanted to see all his efforts... come to this?" Tensai said in return. Before the man could respond, Tensai kept speaking, "If it wasn't for Eskel, Lily would still be a frightened Pikachu. She wouldn't of had all the great things she has today: a place to call home, a family to love her, children to care for! He made all the difference for her! And thanks to that, she made all the difference for the little plants she waters, Raichu, for my parents, for Reggie, for ME! And that's just one Pokemon... whose touched so many lives. Eskel has helped thousands - and on those thousands he's helped, he's done his part to help millions. And in one second, in one instant, you are willing to take all that HARD WORK and spit on it as if it was as meaningless as dirt! You are going to tarnish everything Eskel EVER LIVED FOR."

The man glared at him, retorting that he had no right to say anything - that he knew nothing about Eskel. "You're right, I don't really know him all that well. But I know rescuers. I know Rangers. I know people who dedicate their lives to Pokemon. I know what they are willing to sacrifice for a Pokemon, know what they are willing to risk." Kuku started to say how idiotic that thinking was but Tensai jumped in, "So Eskel is stupid too?! You're calling the man you loved an idiot!?" As the elder tried to argue, Tensai shouted, "Then tell me WHAT WAS HE DOING IN HIS FINAL MOMENTS?! You both ran into that cave-in, aware it was dangerous, aware it was unstable, WHY?!"

Silence reigned for a few moments, and he could see in Kuku's eyes, the memories playing through in his head. He was remembering... Remembering things Tensai didn't precisely know of, but knew he had hit a mark. But, with those memories came the painful ones of his death and Kuku's eyes steeled again, saying against Pokemon were monsters even to those who did help them. "The only monsters in this world are humans. Pokemon might do the dirty work sometimes, but it's the humans pulling the strings. It's a human who always gives the order. It's a human who always causes the pain. Why they even follow us... maybe it's fear. Maybe it's loyalty." He glared at Kuku, hissing out, "Some Pokemon are even so loyal, they will willing aid a human who is intent on killing them."

He took a breath, seeing Kuku didn't realize who he meant, then spoke again, "What do you think will happen to them? Do you even care anymore?" He pointed up towards Arceus. "Don't you realize, when you ask Arceus to wipe out the entire Pokemon race... Arluin, Itzel... all of them too will be gone?" He saw Kuku falter, and couldn't believe it did he really think they would be spared? His arm fell, frowning, "They've followed you this entire way... they've done everything you've asked for because you are their friend and they love you. They fought and got hurt because they love you."

He shut his eyes, his head bowing some, as his hands covered his heart. "Love... it is the greatest blessing in our world. We all have it in some way, whether we want it or not. Some people don't seem to have enough... when they deserve so much more. Some of us have so much, it just seemed to explode around us. But no matter what, it is always precious." His fingers clenched, tears rising to his eyes, "And because it's precious that is why it hurts so much when we lose it. Sacha.... I know so well how much you hurt. Eskel, he must of been your entire world. When I was five, my parents were mine. But do you want to know the difference between you and me? My heart is not turned away from them. But you... you've turned your heart from him."

Tensai slowly raised his head, meeting the man's eyes, and saying gently, "But in love, we are unselfish. We will do anything for that person, even if it hurts ourself or goes beyond our own desires. You love him - it's still there, that bond you shared with him. No one knows him better than you do. You claim you're doing this for him; so truly do it for him. Ask your heart 'is this really what Eskel would want me to do?'"

[Rikugurl]

The blonde man paused, his mouth only opened to halt, his voice stuck in his throat as he heard the laughter. The glowing jewel that Arceus was fixed on lowered, the blonde turning around to face the raging eyes of the young boy. He knew the boy, though not very well. Roxel, the younger rescuer admired him, putting him on a pedestal even if he could never read anything. He was the son of Sora and Riku, two people who he knew very well. Sora was the one who adopted Lily so many years ago and Riku had spoiled a very important operation. But right now, it didn't matter who he was because his voice boomed louder than even Arceus.

Slowly, tired eyes looked down at the jewel, seeing how the magic and power swirled inside, the pieces of Arecus making this gift to the humans. It was the balance between humans and pokemon. The creator of this world gave a part of himself to mankind, to take and create. It was a piece of him; a few of his plates and blessings and now he was using it... for what?
To break the bond they had created thousands of years ago?

His eyes closed, tired and exhausted but he remembered. Remembered Eskel.

"Ask your heart 'is this really what Eskel would want me to do?'"

Laughter filled his head, bouncing off it like his skull was truly hollow. And then his face appeared. Bright purple eyes pull of joy and happiness, his smile as sweet as the scent of a Roserade. The man with the unnatural purple hair would fade in and out, every appearance different. Still, he held that handsome smile as one image was him rubbing a broken shelled Blastoise. Another was his giggling as he nuzzled the large nose of a baby Stantler.

Eskel.... he loved Pokemon.


Fingers typed quickly along the keyboard of a laptop. The man hunched over had light blonde hair and a thin frame, anyone who saw him would wonder how he had enough strength to keep working at this time of night. The clock about the wall, shaped and styled like a pokeball, was showing an early hour of 6am. From the appearance of his eyes and the pokemon perched behind his desk, one could guess he was here all through the night. He was making a data base of all the volunteers around Kanto, putting in their names and addresses and just what they could do to help. It was a lot of work getting an organization up and running by yourself.

The pokemon behind him didn't seem to mind, though she was slowly drifting off to sleep, her black, silky feathers fluffed up when she caught herself from falling off her perch, her own tired eyes gazing down at the man as he continued to work. She was his first pokemon, actually being a rescue herself. They had clicked instantly and was his perfect companion since she was quite nocturnal herself. Nocturnal but not a zombie. Still, she would watch over her master for the long hours, only resting when he did. She loved him, he was her everything, and though not a very trusting pokemon, everyone who knew her loved her so much.

The door suddenly opened and the man at the desk hardly knew it as his senses were all shutting down, trying to making his body fall asleep through his work. The murkrow gave a small squawk and the man sat up, looking up to see a young man walking up to the desk, a small pokemon by his side.
"Can I help you?" A washed out voice came from the man in black, his dark eyes looking up into the pure purple.
"Oh, yes... actually... I saw an ad in a local Pokecenter about a Porta Vista Rescue center opening and looking for help, especially for people who specialized in a certain type. I would like to join as a---
"What is your name?"

The boy paused, most likely no older than sixteen. "My name is Eskel Quetzal. I'm from Junita and my family owns a Manetric breeding farm.
"Alright... so tell me Eskel... why do you want to become a Rescuer?"
The purple haired boy frowned, thinking it over before spilling his reason. " I was about... thirteen, when there was a raid on the town, sometime in the middle of the night. It was some sort of Team, one that used to be in Kanto before Team Rocket dwindled them away. They were looking for Raikou, and I guess they couldn't find him. So, they decided to take what was around the town. We tried to fight, but they had brought an army of ground types and well... in an electric town you can imagine how powerless we were." He frowned before continuing. "People lost almost their whole herds of Mareep, or Magnemite, or whatever they had. Every Manetric and Electrike we had... were gone by morning. Well... all except one."

Both set of eyes looked down at the spunky looking blue electrike, seeing him look up at them, wagging his tail. "I'd like to become a Rescuer because if I can save just one pokemon, I feel like it would make up for all that the people of my town lost. I know everything there is about electric type so please, let me have a chance Mr...."
"Azazel.... Sacha Azazel. And alright... just fill out these papers and then next 'quest' we get, you will be in charge of it." He pulled some papers from a folder and placed them on the desk before him.
"Really!? Oh thank you! THANK YOU!" The boy grabbed the pen and started to fill out the application right away.


Eskel was a part of the Rescue Center for thirty-two years, over half his life time. Not only was he a master of electric types, but he was also the co-owner of the center. Him and Eskel even started the Sanctuary, which was a whole new idea and way of treating the severely injured pokemon. They were awarded medals and certificates, becoming the main Rescue center of Kanto. Their Sanctuary saved thousands of pokemon, allowing them to be adopted to loving homes or to be placed back in the wild so they could return to their natural lives. Their idea spread, being doubled when another set of rescuers opened another location known as the Haven where even more pokemon could be treated. Kuku was a dragon type expert and Eskel an electric. It was helpful to be able to ship Dark type and Fire type to the other experts of the organization.

But he knew Eskel loved something more than Pokemon.

Eskel loved him.


"Oh? You're still up?" A youthful voice rang through the small office as the thin teenager was carrying a stack of blankets. It was going to be his twentieth birthday in another week. He was doing some overtime though because a litter of badly starved meowth needed his care.
"Mmm... just getting these last emails finished to the Headquarters. I should be done....soon." That was blatant lie, Eskel knowing that those messages usually took two hours to fill and fax.
"Did you want me to stay here with you?"
"No, get some rest. You had a busy day today." The blonde looked up, smiling some before going back to his typing.

"Some of the volunteers said you were a little too dedicated. I see where they get it from." Eskel laughed softly. "You'd have to be cuckoo to work so much."
"Then I'll be cuckoo, just as long as these pokemon get the care they need."
This seemed to shock the young man but an adoring smile spread over his lips. "Alright... Kuku."

~~~

"K...Ku..." He had made it out; he was going to be okay...
The rest of the cave around him collapsed.


"WELL, HUMAN? WHY HAVE YOU ASKED ME HERE? WHAT IS YOUR DEMAND?"

Arceus's words awoke him, bringing him back to the present. His eyes were still on Tensai's seeing the same spark and youth Eskel once had.
Slowly, her turned, looking up at the great beast he had summoned before speaking. "I am an old man... I have lived most of my life aiding your creations, giving them a new life, a new purpose.... but I couldn't do it alone. I asked you here from rage, believing in a lie I convinced myself of. I lost... the thing I held most precious in my life. l lost my ability to help those in need. I lost my ability to find reason. I have no purpose to move on and even if I could make a temporary sanity, I have wounded those who have always been there for me. I came here to ask for a selfish request and I will ask you for it."

The man heard a cry, the young dyslexic thinking it was the same selfish request but his voice was choked down his throat when he heard he was wrong.
"Please, my divine creator... unite me with light of my life because I cannot go living without him by my side."
"IS THAT ALL THEN? YOU HAVE SUMMONED ME FOR THIS?"
"Yes." The man spoke softly just as he bowed his head.
Red eyes peered over his barrier, seeing the two boys just staring up at him. They slowly closed though and what happened next, neither Sanyi or Tensai could retell in words.

Kuku's body began to glow, becoming brighter and brighter as small crystals floated away from him. His figure became lighter, slowly fading away. The pokeballs around his waist were broken off and they too started to glow, disappearing along with the flute and Jewel.
And then, Tensai started to glow, a fear striking him that made him think Arceus though they ALL wanted to see Eskel!
One by one, each member of the group started to glow, all fading away, making it seem like they were never there.
"Huh?" Wide eyes looked out as a light beamed down into the room and a young nurse watched as both Magmortar and Electrivire started to glow and disappear. "N-NO!" Namine cried, thinking that the demand for all Pokemon to disappear had been spoken.

She looked down, watching the poor Murkrow begin to glow and fade away in her arms. "Oh please... Arluin... don't go..." Tears fell from her eyes, only for her to feel them hit her hands, completely passing through the dark type. She then realized that she too was glowing, and fading away.

"WHAT A MINOR SETBACK IN MY SCHEDULE..."



Wind blew, making soft red and yellow hair flutter over a young man's forehead. A green eye slowly opened, squinting when the sun beamed down on him. A sluggish arm came up, blocking the rays before both eyes could open. Green and blue orbs rolled, looking around and taking in the sight of a clear sunny day, just a few clouds in the sky. He looked to his right, seeing nothing but green stems all around him and the feeling of dampness against his back. He was laying in... a field of flowers? Gracidea flowers. "Nnnngghhh...." The boy moaned, pushing his weakened body off the ground and looked around the area, recognizing it instantly.

"Torchic?"
"GAH!!" The boy flailed, looking down at his lap to see a happy looking Melody. "Toooooorhic!"
"Oh Melody!" He cried happily, wrapping his arms around his friend tightly. "I thought I lost you.... forever."

"O-oooh...." A smaller moan came from a little hedge hog who awoke next to his friend, seeing that he was still a little out of it. Before he could ask the boy if he was alright, something shiny caught his attention. "Huh?" Quickly, his little feet carried him over to another teenager, this one still out of it but in his hand, he held a jewel that swirled with power and magic. "H-hey, Tensai! Wake up!"

"W-what the fuck happened...?" A brunette groaned, rubbing his head. He looked around, seeing the rest of the team getting up sluggishly. His eyes caught onto something though. It was a belt, just a few feet away, with six pokeballs attached to it.

"Aahh...." Namine's eyes opened, squinting them too when the sun hit them. Slowly, she looked up, feeling a weight on her chest only to see a sleeping Murkrow. "Arluin!"

Bonnie was sitting up, her hand placed securely over Roxy's shoulder as he continued to sleep. She was looking around, her exotic eyes taking in the sight. "Are we... back in the field? Where's... Kuku?"