The next morning, when Seth woke up, as expected, the morning paper came and on the headlines was the news of last night’s incident.

“See for yourself,” Selena said as she passed him the paper. Seth scanned the headlines and sighed, this was going to be trouble...

‘Crown Jewels Stolen!’

‘Corruption in the Government!’

‘Get the full story on page two!’

“...You know, I wonder how they got word of this so fast, considering it was...just last night...and pretty late at night at that,” Seth couldn’t help but deadpan.

“Two worlds, and the press is still as ruthlessly efficient,” Selena replied as she sipped her coffee.

Seth nodded, “Rika and Fritter are still asleep, I need to head to the Castle. It’s likely that there’s an uproar over there at the moment.”

“I think the Guard can handle that, you guys just relax today.” Seth got up and stretched. He wolfed down a few small rolls of bread and drained his coffee cup. “I’ll be back as soon as I can okay?”

“I wonder if they find the Crown Jewels yet?” Seth asked... and as if to answer his question, another paper suddenly slid under the door just before he opened it, this time showing the headlines of the Crown Jewels being found.

“I’m not sure how I’m supposed to respond,” Seth said dryly. “I’ll be back Selly.”

“Work-related stuff,” Selena replied. “Oh, and duck.” The dragon lowered her head as Rika sailed right over the top of her, crashing into a wall.

By the time Seth arrived at the Palace, it was already teeming with reporters, guards and concerned citizens. After making his way past them and dodging annoying reporters and their questions, Seth made his way to the throne room, where Celestia and Jonathan were waiting.

“Yeah he is. Speaking of which, I came here to say that I need to be going as soon as possible,” Jonathan said.

“So the jewels were already recovered?” Seth asked. “Seems Fox is a morning person too.”

“So it would seem,” Celestia replied. “Though the citizens seem upset, given that this is the second time they have been stolen.”

“I do not think that will sate the citizens concerns though,” Celestia added.

“Speaking of Fox, I got word from one of the guards that they saw a suspicious figure in black sneak out of Canterlot this morning. I’m almost positive it’s Fox, and I doubt she would stick around after she’s done what she came to do. She went through the southern exit, and if I hurry, I might be able to catch her in the next town,” Jonathan explained.

“Then you may have your leave,” Celestia nodded. “I thank you and your team for your assistance last night Officer Trace. Also, I give you clearance to operate under the Canterlot Pokemon Special Forces. Your jurisdiction has been extended to cover all of Equestria.” Her horn shone for a moment as her Cutie Mark appeared on his badge.

“Thank you, your majesty,” Jonathan saluted. “Until we meet again.” And with that, he was out the door, once more chasing after the elusive thief.

“He was a nice guy,” Seth said as the Lucario left. “It must suck to try and catch someone you love though...”

“Hmm, just a hunch I suppose,” Seth smiled, remembering the banter the two had exchanged, as well as the blush on their faces when they kissed. “So, what are my orders for today?”

Celestia thought for a moment. “First, I’d like to introduce your team to the general public. The recent Heist will actually work out for us with this. A Pokemon-related problem that ponies couldn’t solve? Sounds like a good time to introduce a Pokemon team no?”

“You... are quite devious you know that?” Seth chuckled as the throne-room doors opened, letting the swarm of ponies in.

“Moi? I have no idea what you’re talking about,” Celestia feigned innocence.

So Court had been an absolute nightmare. So many ponies, so many complaints. In the end though, the announcement of Seth’s team had gone down well, as well as the decision for a public vote for the next Council.

Three names had been decided so far, Fleur De Lis, Fancy Pants and surprisingly enough, Captain Grissom.

“So why me?” Grissom asked once Court cleared out, save for the three ponies, Seth and Princess Celestia.

“Because I want someone that I can truly trust,” Celestia said. “Fancy and Fluer are well-respected members of Canterlot society, and I’d like one more, perhaps chosen by the citizens. But I also need somepony that I know can make the hard calls when necessary.” She gave her long-time friend a warm smile. “There is almost no-one in this city I trust more than you Captain.”

“Well, I can’t really say no after that, can I?” Grissom chuckled. “And here I was, thinking of retiring soon. Ah well, I guess I can assist you in this manner Your Majesty.”

“Wonderful,” Celestia allowed herself a small giggle. “And what say the two of you, Lady De Lis, Lord Fancy?”

“Indeed, we shan’t fail you like the last ones,” Fleur agreed. “We will do our upmost to make this city a warm and welcome one.”

“You have my thanks,” Celestia bowed her head. “It will take some time for the necessary arrangements to be completed. I should also have our fourth member by then as well. Until then my little ponies.”

Fancy and Fleur bowed and took their leave. Celestia turned to Seth and with her magic, summoned a scroll.

“What is it?” The Luxray questioned. He was still curious as to what he was actually going to do with his position. His confused look came across loud and clear to the Princess.

“Well, I’d best explain everything in detail. First, you will be given the rank of Captain, however... that rank only applies to your team. You will hold no command over the Solar Guard and Night Watch, nor will you over the Guards from other provinces.”

“That seems fair,” Seth replied. “I have neither the training nor the qualifications.”

“You are free to recruit whomever you see fit into your team, though I will step in if I believe they prove to be inadequate or too dangerous.”

“Also fair, but even the smallest Pokemon can be quite dangerous. There is the chance I will need to recruit powerful Pokemon in response,” Seth said.

“An acceptable term,” Celestia nodded. “Very well, I will trust in your better judgement. But the responsibility will be yours if something goes wrong.” The mare floated the scroll over to him, and the Luxray unfurled it on the floor to read it.

“I would like you to go to Las Pegasus, to evaluate the situation there.” Celestia’s horn flashed and summoned a scroll. It was a report she had received from Captain Ace and her husband. It was quite lengthy too, which was unusual for the normally paperwork-phobic mare.

“It seems that Pokemon have had... trouble adjusting to the citizens in Las Pegasus, with Arceus himself having to step in at one time.” Seth looked over the report as Celestia spoke, and he noticed Vincent’s names pop up more than a few times. So this was the trouble he had mentioned.

“I never expected the integration of an entire species to go smoothly,” Seth said. “But still... Aren’t things getting a little out of hand?”

“That is why I want you to go there,” Celestia said. “If your group proves successful, then I would like to start up other groups in other cities. And Las Pegasus seems to be the one in need most of all... that and Trottingham.”

“What happened there?” Seth asked as Celestia brought forth another report. He scanned it quickly and nodded. “Xenophobic ponies... that’ll do it. Will this Paranoia be any trouble?”

Seth nodded, “Well, this works out anyway. I had been planning a trip to Las Pegasus soon. Will that be all Your Majesty?”

“I believe so, Ironside will be joining your team once you return. We still have the Council to worry about, as well as integrating the new one... Ah, could you also deliver this letter to your marefriend?”

“A letter for Fritter?” Seth questioned as he took the envelope. “Sure.”

The Luxray gave a polite bow and left the throne room, and as he exited the palace, he passed by a Ninetales and a Shiny Arcanine, though he paid them little attention. He was more concerned with how Christine would react to going to see Vincent again...

“I’m home,” Seth called out as he entered Fritter’s cottage, though almost no-one seemed to be home. Christine was on the couch, and... well that was it.

“What the?” Seth blinked. “Where the heck is everyone?” he passed by the table and noticed a note, several different forms of handwriting were on it.

‘Sethy! I have a job with Photo Finish to earn some money for what I owe Vincent. He’d better appreciate the hell I’m about to go through for this... Also dragged Selly along for the ride. Love Rika~’

“Well, aside from Ignis, that explains that,” Seth mused. “And how are you feeling Christine?”

“Bored and nervous,” the dragon responded. “I’ve never been in one place this long without something happening. I keep expecting some random trainer to show up, and I’m disappointed nobody has.”

“Please don’t jinx us,” Seth sighed. “Oh, I have some good news though.”

“You could tell me that Ignis found someone to fight right here and I’d accept it for being interesting,” she responded. “What is this news?”

‘Please don’t have some random challenger for Ignis to turn up,’ Seth pleaded to the gods. “Well, I just spoke with princess Celestia, and she’s funding a trip for us to go to Las Pegasus, you know, where Vincent and Sam are?”

At this, the dragon perked up a bit. “Oh really?” She began to stretch, making sure her joints weren’t sore from sitting on her butt for so long. “So when are we going?”

“A few days at most, probably as early as tomorrow,” Seth replied. “I have some time on my hands right now. Would you like to go out somewhere?”

“Ehhhh...why not. You’ve proven mostly trustworthy,” the landshark said with a shrug.

“Glad to be of assistance Milady,” Seth chuckled. “I need to go and check up on the Carbink, then how about I show you a few places around town?”

At the mention of the colony of ‘mon under Canterlot, Christine stiffened for a moment before giving him a jerky nod. “Don’t expect me to come in with you,” she said, “And I make no promises about me staying in a good mood along the way. Depends on how many think I can’t hear them talk about me behind my back.”

“You can wait outside if you want,” Seth nodded as they left. “I just need to see how they’re coming along. It should only take a few minutes, then you have me for the rest of the day.”

“You sure you should be offering that to me?” Christine said with a wink. “Pretty sure you have a pair of females that’d take offense to that.”

“Of course I know,” Seth replied. “I aced my Pokemon breeding course, and I have every Egg Group memorised...” Seth paused, as his mind ticked back a minute or two. “Oohhhh...” Then he turned a very nice shade of crimson.

“And so the great light dawns,” the dragon snarked. “Seriously, with Selena around, how does it STILL take you this long to catch on?”

“I’m starting to wonder if you pursued females as a human, or if they had to walk up and kiss you for you get a clue,” Christine mused.

Seth recalled the night Elesa confessed to him, and that she had trapped them atop the Ferris Wheel and kissed him. “You... may have a point there,” he chuckled.

“Ah. That explains a few things,” the landshark said with a nod. “Be thankful that Rika and I aren’t the best of friends. Otherwise I’d teach her everything I know, and you would hate me for it. Might still teach that Fritter mare, if only to see how red she can turn.”

“While Fritter is adorable as all get out when she blushes...” Seth forgot what he was going to say as he thought of his mare.

“Wouldn’t know about that,” the dragon said. “She’s not mine, nor do I swing that way. I just like seeing others react to the things I talk about sometimes. Like how some Pokemon have weirdly shaped-”

“Okay! Looks like we’re here!” Seth decided to interrupt. “I’ll be just a minute...”

“Sure thing. Oh, and you’ve got red on you right about here,” the mutated dragon said, using one claw to indicate her whole face.

“Funny,” Seth grumbled as he entered the cave. He didn’t have to go far before Dace greeted him, along with Joke.

“I’m fine, just thought I’d stop by and see what you guys have been up to?” Dace smiled at that and motioned for Joke to step forward, the Carbink carrying a box on his head.

“We found some items that might be of interest to you Sir Seth,” Dace said. “They are useless to us, and we owe you a great deal for saving us.”

“You guys don’t owe me anything, I’m just glad you’re okay and doing well.”

“Regardless,” Dace said. “Please take these with you, perhaps you could do some good with them?”

Seth looked inside the box, and gasped at what he saw. Three Keystones and several Mega Stones, still in their uncut form.

“Incredible,” Seth whispered. “I’ve never seen this many uncut Mega stones before. Where did you find them?”

“A deep vein buried past that tainted stone,” Dace replied. “Once Onix was pacified and the Alicorn Princess removed the taint, we were able to go deeper. We discovered all manner of stones from our home, including these.”

“And you’re sure I can take them?” Seth asked, earning a nod from the Carbink.

“If you can return our Princess to us, then we would be eternally grateful... and besides,” Dace looked into the distance. “We fear that a darkness is coming, and that you, and many like you, will require all the help you can get...”

“Well, that’s not ominous or anything,” Seth muttered. “Still, thank you Dace, I will see to it that these get put to good use. I already have a few ideas in mind.” Seth bid the Carbink farewell and returned to Christine, hoping she hadn’t set anything on fire in her boredom.

“Huh,” the dragon said as Seth came back into her line of sight. “What’s with the box?” She raised a non-existent eyebrow as she looked at it.

“A gift from some new friends,” Seth opened the box and revealed its contents. “These are Keystones and Mega Stones... hmm, I think that might be Garchompite...”

“Fought more than my fair share of Megas,” the dragon said, eyeing the stones. “Still...I’m interested, but there’s not a whole lot of guys I’d trust with the other half of that equation.”

“Trust is a deciding factor,” Seth nodded. “Tell you what, if or when you ever evolve, we could always try it out.”

“Well, we have the whole day to ourselves,” Seth pondered. “What would you like to do?”

“...Something not boring,” Christine supplied. “Something other than sitting on my behind. I mean, now that I don’t have to run and hide, I’d like to see what these cities are all about.”

“What the city has to offer?” Seth thought on this... and made a note to tour the city himself sometime. “Hmm, something not boring... Well, would you like to go somewhere and work out those frustrations you have?”

“That’d be nice, yeah,” the dragon said, before sighing. “But this place doesn’t have a lot of areas that won’t be missed due to being set on fire.”

“I used them before to train with Ignis,” Seth said. “So I don’t see why not. Plus, I’ve been curious as to how strong you actually are.”

“Ah, well, lemme give you an idea as we walk over,” she said, as she let Seth lead the way. “Y’know Bit, right? I find it hard to believe that Vincent wouldn’t have mentioned him.”

“Huh, he’s a Z now? Good on ‘im,” Christine commented. “Anyways, yeah, he ran most of the systems there, to include security. Think about that for a moment.”

“You broke out,” Seth remembered. “Yeah... I’m starting to get an idea now. Still, actions speak louder than words. So let’s go have a little fun.”

“You’re gonna regret that in about two minutes,” she said with a smirk. “I mostly snuck out, but when the final door slammed shut in front of me, I blasted it open, and spent the next while in the wild getting stronger so that I could outdo Bit at every possible turn and bring everyone out. But hey, your funeral if you want me to show off.”

“Now you’re sounding a little like Ignis,” Seth smirked as they walked. Several Pokemon and ponies offered the Luxray a greeting as they passed, and passed that greeting along to Christine as well, though Seth could tell she was unaccustomed to that. Before they reached the arena though, a Rapidash and Garchomp stopped them. It took a moment for Seth to recognise them... he had saved that Rapidash from Total Control.

“So we meet again,” the Garchomp replied with a small smile. “And who’s your interesting, little friend here?”

“This is Christine,” Seth replied. “Christine, this is... uh? I forgot.”

“Seriously?” the Rapidash sighed. “Not cool... nah, it’s fine. I’m Flare Blitz and this is my mate Sapphira. How do you do Miss Christine.”

“Eh, I’m mostly bored,” the Gabite replied honestly. “Fluff-boy here wants to see if I’m as strong as I keep claiming to be, so he’s offered up the training grounds as a sacrifice. I’d advise getting about fifty feet back just in case.” She’d embellished what was about to happen just a little...but it was usually worth it.

“HAH! This kid has spunk,” Sapphira laughed. “Maybe I’d believe that once you're all grown up like me.”

“Sapphira here spoils for fights whenever she can,” Flare sighed. “It’s quite exhausting trying to keep up with her.”

“Hmm, never fought a Charizard before,” Sapphira mused. She leant down and kissed Flare on the cheek. “Imma find this guy and beat him down. Be back later love.” And with that, she soared off into the sky.

“I seriously don’t get the physics behind how a Garchomp flies,” Seth said as she took off.

“She claims it’s powered by pure awesome, I chalk it up to hinkey dragon magic,” Flare nodded. “Well, I’ll be off as well. Better make sure she doesn’t get herself hurt... again. later guys.”

As he galloped off, Seth smiled at Christine as they walked into the Training Field. “See? Not everyone is a bad person, Pokemon... whatever.”

“...Two does not a case make,” she retorted. “But it’s starting to look bad for my worldview, yes,” Christine admitted. “Maybe Arceus did do something right then. It’d be a first.”

“I’ll agree to that,” Seth nodded. A stallion gave the Luxray a nervous look as he walked in. The damage Ignis had caused the other day had been repaired, and now he was bringing another dragon? This wasn’t gonna end well.

Seth pressed a button as several targets popped out of the ground, cast from thick iron and stone. “Okay Christine. Go nuts.”

With that, she was off. The first one, made of thick stone, suffered a powerful Rock Smash attack. The dragon turned as she finished it, looking to the next. Metal? “FLAMETHROWER!” she screamed, as a jet of fire leapt from her mouth and impacted the target...twenty feet away.

“Good range and attack power,” Seth noted as he tapped a few entries into his Pokedex. “Accuracy and Special attack is good too.” He pressed another button as two more targets appeared and begun to spin around the circumference of the arena. “Let’s try speed next.”

Christine smirked, speed? Speed she had. After a few slow steps, she all but bolted and instinctively disappeared save for her red line, impacting one of the targets where she thought it would show up. A brutal Take Down later, and it had been reduced to rubble. The next one, however… “Fire Blast!” she said, taking aim at it before it crossed paths with her, shimmering back into view as she did. A gob of flame left her mouth and impacted the metal thing, reducing it to slag like the last one.

“Awesome!” Seth cheered. “Your control is impeccable and your reaction time for a wild Pokemon... I’ve never seen such refined skill.” He nodded as he put his Pokedex away. “I’ll be honest, if I were still a Trainer, I’d love to have you on my team. You’re versatile, powerful and skilled. Those that wanted you, just because of your colouration? What a bunch of idiots...” He suddenly stopped as he realised what he was saying.

“Ah, oh... I’m sorry! I... guess I got a little carried away there.” He really hoped he hadn’t scared her.

“Just a little,” Christine snarked, getting her breathing back under control from both the workout and Seth’s words. “But seeing as it’s you, you get a pass. One. Singular. Be glad you aren’t human at the moment, otherwise you’d be eating a Dragon Claw right about now.”

“Dragon Claw? You can use Dragon moves as well?” Seth asked. “You seem to stick to Fire-type moves a lot.”

“Cause I hung around wooded areas a lot. Fire’s the thing that got humans moving away from me, so it’s like a reflex,” the landshark elaborated. “I fell back on Dragon when I actually got in fights.”

“Dragon Claw and Dual Chop,” she said honestly. “Kept hoping that maybe I could pick up on Dragon Breath, but no dice so far. Guess neither of my parents knew it.”

“Yeah, you can still learn Egg moves naturally, but it requires a butt ton of training,” Seth replied. “Hmm, I think I have an idea. A wonderful and terrible idea~”

“You might want to rephrase that before my twitchy claws kick in,” the Gabite said.

“Heh, sorry. Watching you fight has me super pumped. So Christine... you feeling up for being taught how to use Draco Meteor?”

The dragon blinked a few times. “Okay, even I’ve heard of that move,” she said, suitably impressed. “That’s like...the mother of all non-Legendary Dragon moves. How the hell do you think you’re going to teach me that?”

“It is the strongest Dragon attack in terms of power, as for teaching it... it’s quite simple.” Seth pulled his Pokedex back out and scrolled through it. “All Dragon’s have the innate ability to learn Draco Meteor. It comes from the draconic energy that resides in you. I simply have to teach you how to reach that energy and wield it properly.” He gave her a smile, “While it might be easier to learn Dragon Pulse, I think this attack suits you better.”

“Overwhelming power, about as subtle as a brick to the face, and leaving nothing standing if it doesn’t outright resist Dragon?” she asked with more than a bit of snark. “Whatever gave you that idea, puffball?”

“It just came to me,” Seth replied with a wide smirk. “Okay dragonlady. Let’s get to work...”

By the time the sun was setting, the Training Field was littered with craters, as well as an obliterated garden shed and the hedge maze was on fire... aside from that, it had been a successful day.

“I should be worried about the ramifications of teaching you such a skill,” Seth puffed, the training had been hard on him too. Dodging flaming meteors sucked. “But... oh well.”

“Don’t be so pessimistic!” Christine said, smiling. Actually smiling. “It’s not my usual style anyways, so I’ll only need it on special occasions. Unlike fire-for-brains, I don’t make it my mission to fight everyone I meet. Speaking of, do you think he met up with that Garchomp from earlier?”

“Maybe,” Seth replied. “And while we’re on the topic, Do not tell him I taught you that move. He’d want to fight you for sure.” He recalled the day he taught Ignis Blast Burn... that was not a fun day for anyone, well, except for Ignis.

“Like I said, special occasions only. I’ll not tell him...I’ll let it be a surprise if he does try to fight me, though,” the landshark said, still smiling.

Christine brought a claw to her face as she felt it, before nodding and drawing close to Seth. She laid a claw across his shoulders...or where his shoulders would be if he were still human. “This...is the first time in a long time I’ve felt like a dragon, and not some freak or escaped mutant,” she said softly. “So thank you for this.”

“It’s my pleasure,” Seth replied as the Quartermaster in charge took one look at the arena... and burst into tears. “Still, keep working on it. You can summon a little more than half a dozen meteors now, but I know Cynthia’s Garchomp could produce more that twenty with a single burst.”

“Eh, like I said, not my style. Might work on it, might not,” she replied, waving one claw at the Luxray. She was silent for a few moments, thinking about something, before she spoke up again. “Earlier? When you said we could try the Mega thing if I ever evolved? I think I know who I’d trust with the other half of that equation now. You’re not number one on the list...but you are on that list now.”

Seth blushed at the praise. “I’m honoured, thank you Chrissie.” He was about to say something else when a messenger Pegasus flew up to him in a hurry.

“That’s me, what’s up?” he replied, placing himself between Christine and the sudden arrival.

“Princess Celestia needs to see you right away,” she reported. “Can you come to the castle right now?”

Seth looked at Christine. “It shouldn’t be a problem, tell the Princess I’ll see her soon.” The Pegasus nodded and flew off, leaving the two Pokemon alone once more.

“You okay?” he asked. “She didn’t spook you too bad...ly...” he looked around, but the dragon was gone... until he noticed a red stripe against one of the walls. “I see you~” he sang with a small chuckle.

“Yeah, just...one moment,” the dragon’s voice came, before she shimmered back into visibility. “Darn startle reflex. And really, you shoulda been worried about her. I know Stone Edge and Rock Slide...but at least I didn’t go for those first…” the dragon trailed off. “Huh...that’s not my normal reaction.”

“That’s a good thing isn’t it?” Seth inquired. He’d really hate to explain to the Princess why one of her messengers was impaled by stones, or crushed... or both.

“Yeah, it’s just...weird for me. I blame you,” the landshark said. “You and your family. Getting me used to this whole civilized life thing...the wilds were easier on me. Punch it, burn it, or ignore it.”

“True, but having friends you can trust and count on is a good thing as well right?” Seth nuzzled her with his head. “You like us, admit it~”

“You, yes. Selena, I like to outdo in our verbal duels. Ignis isn’t hard on the eyes, but I’ve eyes for only one, and besides, fire-head’s taken anyways. Rika’s...enthusiastic, and Fritter cooks well. Titania, I could do without.” Christine started to leave the field, having more than caught on that she needed to get back home now.

“I’ll take what I can get,” Seth mused. “Would you like to come and meet the Princesses with me?”

“I’ll let you think about that question again,” Christine said in a deadpan while elaborating. “Do I want to meet someone who’s massively powerful, in charge of these ponies, and has powers the likes of which I can’t quite understand? Besides which, I don’t think authority and I get along well.”

“Alright,” Seth nodded. Baby steps it was then. “I’ll walk you home and then find out what the Princess wants.” He gave his shoulders a shrug and tilted his head. “Are you feeling up to walking? I can give you a lift if you’re tired.”

The Gabite waved him off. “Eh, I know the way back, and from the sounds of things, she wants you yesterday.”

“Oh, the puffball catches on!” Christine chuckled lewdly, before continuing in a more normal voice. “So g’on, see the pretty pony Princess. I’ll be waiting back at home.” She turned and paused for a moment. “And Seth? Thanks again. Seriously.”

“Anytime, my friend.” Seth smiled back. “Tell the others I’ll be back soon okay?” Seth gave her one last nuzzle and ran off to the palace…

“Friend,” the landshark mused. “Got a nice ring to it.” With that, she was off to the home of Fritter.

By the time Seth arrived, Celestia was sending Raven off with a few reports. She looked up to see Seth walk in and greeted him.

“Thank you for coming so suddenly,” she said. “I have another assignment for you. Should you be willing to accept of course.”

“We had a small... incident,” Celestia said. “That’s been resolved, but something interesting has occurred as well.”

“Go on,” Seth said slowly. What was this ‘incident’ and why was she hiding it from him?

“I have authorised a branch of Pokemon Rangers to be started up, in Ponyville.” Celestia explained. “I’m getting a few things organised for them and I was wondering if you wouldn’t mind stopping off on your way to Las Pegasus? I’d like to see how they’re coming along from someone outside their ranks.”

“Rangers...” Seth said quietly. He hadn’t dealt with Pokemon Rangers for a long time now... well, a few weeks anyway, but it’d felt like forever since they arrived in Equestria. “Do you have details?”

“The Ranger in question was a Miss Abby Trombley. She made an excellent case and has given me her word that a certain law will not be enforced ever again, and seeing that she was with her mate, I believe as such.”

Wait, there was a Pokemon Ranger that was in a relationship with her Pokemon!? Well... that was certainly interesting news indeed.

“Thank you, I’ll send the documents via Pegasus messenger. Leave when you are able. While there is no real rush, I would like it done as soon as possible.”

Seth nodded and with one last bow, headed off for home. They’d need to start packing.

He didn’t get very far though, as something large and squealing tackled him to the ground, smothering his face in kisses.

“Gah! What the fu... ELLY!?” Seth exclaimed as he saw the Ampharos sitting on top of him in a very compromising position. Not that she cared.

“I see,” Seth smiled as he hugged the Ampharos. “I’ve missed you a lot Elly. So much has happened, I wish you’d been here.”

“I know, I heard about the thefts. It’s partly the reason why I’m back. Seems you get into too much trouble when I’m not around Mister.”

“I do not,” Seth huffed. “...Okay... yeah. I kinda do.” Once the woman let him get back up, he got a good look at her. She wore a thick, fluffy yellow coat and had swapped her old headphones out for a new pair, these ones had a pink visor that covered her eyes.

“Amazing, these ponies really know how to party,” Elesa giggled. “I recorded my first LP as well, that was a ton of fun.”

“I’ll bet,” Seth smiled as they walked back to Fritter’s house. “Where’s Skyla and the rest?”

“At our new apartment,” Elesa informed him. “The recording company I’m contracted to got me an apartment here in Canterlot, so I’m here to stay now.” Her eyes twinkled mischievously as she smirked. “And what about you? What new in your life? Did that Sylveon of yours finally get her man? Or maybe the cute Earth Pony?”

By the time Christine had gotten home, the sun was setting and the moon made it’s way into the sky. Everyone was already home, and offered the dragon a warm welcome.

“Howdy Christine,” Apple Fritter smiled as she and Rika set the table. “Er, was Seth with you by chance?”

Christine smirked a bit before replying. “Yeah, but Celestia needed him to fulfill some of her Royal Duties,” she said, dropping emphasis where necessary to turn it from an innocent statement into one that’d keep the puffball on his pawpads. “He might not be back for a while.”

“What? He’s getting some from the Princess!?” she shrieked. “And didn’t invite us!?!?”

“And you do realise that the dragon is probably just joking?” Selena sighed from her spot on the couch.

“The only thing that’s a joke are your little nightly sessions with flame-brain,” Christine fired back. “I’ve heard Zubats that moaned louder.”

Selena stopped as her gaze slowly turned towards Christine, her blade humming with power. “I am going to pretend that you didn’t say that... because Seth might be upset if I murdered you!”

“Calm down,” Ignis chuckled. “I think your little moans are really cute~”

Selena suddenly turned bright red as she switched her glare to Ignis. “D-d-d-d-don’t say that! Idiot!!”

“Yup, cause that’s her defining trait,” Christine pitched in as she took her usual couch spot. “Cuteness and blind, murderous rage. The two of you are a perfect couple.”

“I don’t know if I should kill you or not,” Selena growled. “Ignis, can I kill her. Please?”

“Ignis, can I set her on fire? Please?” Christine asked immediately afterwards.

Ignis was sitting between the two and sighed. There was no winning in this situation. Because the two would actually follow up on those threats...

“Well, Selly’s moans are kinda cute,” Rika agreed. “Sorry Selly...” Rika thought for a moment, “But Chrissie has a cute little scratchy voice. I bet she sounds adorable as well.”

Ignis raised an eyebrow as he kept Selena and Christine apart. “Rika, do I even want to know how you know what Selena sounds like?”

“Nor do I want to know why she wants to know what I’d sound like,” Christine said with a shudder before raising one claw. “All agreed that Rika’s too knowledgeable for something that looks as cute as her?”

Everyone present raised an appendage, causing Rika to pout. The door opened up and Seth chose that moment to walk in, seeing everyone with a raised arm. His guest waited just outside, wondering what the holdup was.

“Have fun with the Princess! did you?” Rika suddenly shouted. “Is she better than me?”

“Seth,” Fritter sighed. “Am... is the Princess really preferable over me?” The look on her face was like Seth had just murdered a sack full of kittens.

“I... WHAT?” Seth backpedaled. “I didn’t do anything! Celestia just had an assignment for me.”

“So you’re on a first name basis now?” Rika yelled. “How long has this been going on for?”

“Do you like mares with bigger flanks?” Fritter asked quietly. “Ah don’t mind putting on a little...”

“For the love of Arceus...” Seth groaned. “The Princess, the mare I work for, wants me to go to Ponyville. That is all. There is no relationship of the romantic or sexual kind of any sort! Where in the holy hell would you even get.. that... ideeaaaa...” He looked to Christine and narrowed his eyes. “You...”

She couldn’t keep a grin off of her face; with two sentences, she got dinner and a show! “Yes puffball?” the dragoness said in a sing-song voice.

“You certainly have a way with the ladies huh Seth?” Elesa said from the doorway, getting Rika’s attention as the Sylveon leapt across the room and tackle-hugged the Ampharos.

“A short while ago, yes.” Elesa hugged the little Fairy. “And I’ve been told that you’ve been very busy~”

“Welcome back Elesa,” Selena said from her spot on the couch. Ignis still had a hold of Christine, so the dragon was unable to flee.

“Who’s that you have there Iggy?” Elesa asked. “She’s a little cutie.”

Seth’s reaction... was different. A small smile crossed his face, a very dangerous and disturbing smile. “She is, isn’t she?” His eyes flickered towards Ignis...

“Nothing really,” Seth crossed the room, nuzzling his girls along the way. “I just hope Selena didn’t misunderstand when you said you liked Ignis?”

Ignis and Selena looked at Christine, the dragon wearing a look of amusement while Selena just radiated an aura of death.

“...Oh crud,” Christine muttered, now very aware that if she got up, an Absol would be on her in five seconds flat...both wanting to get up and get away from the, admittedly, not bad looking hunk of Charizard, and wanting to stay put so he could keep them separated. She looked up to Seth then and narrowed her eyes. “I’ll get you for this one,” she vowed.

Elesa gave Seth an odd look. Since when was he so perceptive about others feelings? Did he level up?

Selena whispered something to Ignis and the dragon’s eyes widened before nodding. He cupped Christine’s cheek in his paw and stared into her eyes with a soft gaze.

“Why did you not tell me your feelings?” he said, his voice as smooth as silk.

“Ah, well,” she stammered, starting to turn pink. “While you aren’t bad to look at, I kinda had somemon in mind already…”

“There’s no need to be shy,” Ignis smiled, his warm breath could be felt on her neck. “Love is a wondrous thing, you should embrace it.”

“And, uh, what about miss dark and broody and stabby right THERE?” One of the Gabite’s claws pointed towards Selena.

“What of it?” Selena shrugged. “Ignis can do what... and who, he wants. Like you said, it’s not like I can keep him totally satisfied.”

Christine’s entire body had turned pink and was slowly shifting to red the longer this went on. “Someone got awfully mad about that Mark on his neck just the other day,” the Gabite pointed out. “Or were you making that up?”

“I don’t know that Noivern,” Selena shrugged cooly. “She sounded selfish and rude. At least you’re tolerable.”

Seth and the rest just watched. Just how long would they keep this up? Elesa and Rika had somehow produced popcorn and were munching away.

“There you have it, little lady,” Ignis purred. “Don’t worry... I don’t bite, not too hard anyway~”

Christine seemed to be turning back to her normal coloration. Either she’d caught on, or…”Fine then, you, me, a bed that’s sturdy enough. Assuming there is one in this place. Some experience before I get to Las Pegasus wouldn’t be terrible.” One of her claws had snagged one of Ignis’ as she started to get up from the couch.

“Are you lot quite done?” Seth said, deciding to put a stop to this. Ignis sighed and nodded, she was a tough one to crack, that’s for sure.

“Well, her previous expression was great... then she called the bluff,” Selena pouted. “I concede Christine. Your skills in verbal banter are unmatched.”

“Oh, so you were bluffing?” the Gabite said seriously, still not letting go. “Too bad. I could probably do with some real-life experience before we make the trip, and Ignis is someone I wouldn’t mind using to get it.”

“Yeah... no,” Selena replied. “Plus I go where Ignis goes, we’re a package deal. You want his package, you get me too~”

“Eh,” Christine said. “I was really only after him, but if you insist…”

“You are impossible!” Selena moaned, dragging her dragon away from her. “That’s it. I’m done.”

“As is this conversation,” Seth said. “Pity, it was pretty funny though.” Then he remembered what he was going to say in the first place. “Christine? This is my good friend Elesa, the former Gym Leader of Nimbasa City.”

“A pleasure to meet you miss Christine,” Elesa said. “You’re quite entertaining I must say. I get the feeling I’ve missed out on a lot of great stuff.”

“This is just the latest in a long line of losses on their side,” Christine said, putting a claw to her chin. “Nimbasa...I want to say I’ve heard of it…”

“Unova region,” Seth explained. “Lotsa bright lights, big ass Ferris Wheel?”

“Ah yeah!” the dragon crowed. “I remember now! Couldn’t get to sleep around there unless I found a deep enough cave, that place was so bright.”

“So Sethy?” Rika asked, “How did you come across your ex-girlfriend? At the Palace maybe? With a Princess as well!?”

“Oh would you drop that?” Seth said, squishing her under one of his paws. “I already said nothing happened!”

“I know, just teasing,” Rika teased as she and Fritter looked back at the dragon, already plotting their revenge. The dark looks on their faces caused her to back up a step and laugh nervously.

“Sure,” Fritter replied with an eerily calm tone. “No hard feelings at all...”

“Can we just have dinner and pack our things?” Seth sighed, “We have to leave early tomorrow.”

“Yeah, no problem,” Christine said. She blinked and then smirked at the Luxray. “Well, I’m done with my packing.”

“Funny,” Seth deadpanned. “We have to stop by Ponville first, and then we’ll head to Las Pegasus after.” He turned to Christine, “Will you be alright on long train trips?”

“Fair enough,” Seth replied. “And you two?” he looked to Selena and Ignis, “No teasing like that unless you actually mean it, alright?”

“Fine,” Selena nodded. “And for the record... It’s not like I’m totally against it or anything...” She added quietly.

Ignis looked at his mate and raised an eyebrow. “Oh really? Thats interesting.”

Selena just turned bright red and refused to answer at around the same time a pink flush overtook Christine’s form again...

“I work for the Princess now,” Seth explained. “Sorry Elle, it was a last minute thing.”

“Aw, I was hoping to catch up some more,” the Electric ‘mon pouted. But that just sparked something else with Seth’s girls.

“Like how you ‘caught up’ before you left?” Rika said slyly. “That was some kiss you gave him.”

“Elesa and Seth used to be lovers,” Ignis explained to Christine. “I can only imagine how things are going to be from here on out.”

“I’m guessing she was the dom and initiator in their relationship,” the dragon snarked. “Puffball notices other’s feelings about as well as Snorlax Fly.”

“Heehee, pretty much,” Elesa giggled. “But Seth is just so cute when he’s all embarrassed. So it’s fine.”

“What is it with everyone tonight?” Seth grumbled. “You’re all picking on me.”

“Rika, Seth needs an infusion of cute and caring, stat,” the dragon said, only trembling lightly at the words she was using.

Rika blinked as she gave Christine the strangest look. That was something she didn’t expect to hear from her mouth. But it was good advice! The Sylveon immediately snuggled her Luxray, as the big cat purred lightly.

“Whipped like butter,” Fritter nodded as she cuddled him too. Selena huggled her dragon and sighed happily. Elesa just laughed at that the cuteness.

“So you’re a thing too?” she asked, earning a nod from Ignis. The Gym leader turned to Christine, “And how do you fit into all this? You someone’s mate as well?”

“They’re taking me to Las Pegasus,” the Gabite responded. “And then I’m getting my Sam...assuming he’s still there.”

“Well good luck then, I’ll be rooting for you okay?” The Ampharos kissed Seth on the cheek and winked. “Let me know when you get back okay?”

The Luxray just nodded as Elesa left, and Rika and Friter stared at the soon empty doorway.

“We’re gonna have to deal with that too huh Apples?” Rika asked her marefriend.

“This trip is going to be far from quiet...” Seth predicted, though a smile crossed his face regardless. “Oh well...”

Total Control was not a happy pony. If anything, he was downright miserable. He had gone from his perfect life to rock bottom in literally a day, and what’s more, they just HAD to sentence him to this living death as a unicorn without a horn.

“Oh well, at least they’ll never forget me now. After all, who else can say they managed to steal the CROWN JEWELS!” he laughed to himself, at least he’d go down in history as the pony who managed to steal the crown jewels.

At that moment, the daily paper was slid into his cell. That was another thing he didn’t like. The paper always came late here. Peering down at it, he saw something that made his blood freeze, his good mood evaporate, and his pride die screaming.

‘Crown Jewels Stolen’

The moment he read those words, everything stopped. And when he saw the full story, his legs fell out from under him. Someone did it. Someone actually stole the Crown Jewels...from OUT OF THE CASTLE VAULT.

“I... what?” This... this couldn’t happen. Haha, yes, it was a joke, an ill conceived joke. “GUARD!” he called out. “What sort of nonsense is this? I asked for the paper. Not some foal’s prank!”

“I don’t know what you’re talkin’ about,” the Guard responded to his charge. “That is the paper, you don’t want it, then hoof it back. I wasn’t done with the funny pages.”

“This is a joke! The Crown Jewels couldn’t have been stolen right out of the Celestia-damned Vault! It’s impossible!!”

“That’s what yer harping on about?” the Guard yawned. “They were taken alright, and returned gift-wrapped the next day as I understand it.”

Control’s eyes widened as he scanned the newspaper, and discovered what the Guard said was true. The Jewels had been returned, no worse for wear.

‘After the previously failed Heist of the Jewels last time, the second theft saw them returned just hours after they were stolen. Are the Jewels cursed? Are they magic?’

A footnote added said something else. After questioning the Pokemon supposedly chasing after the thief, a Pokemon calling himself ‘Jonathan Trace’, had this to say. “This fits Fox’s M.O. Perfectly. She never cared about getting the Jewels for herself. All she wanted was to show to everyone that she could take them, she would take them, and as you can see, she did take them. After that, she always returned what she stole, and this is no different. If anything, I think it was all a game to her again.”

The sound of the paper falling to the floor could be heard, followed by Control’s inequine screams of pure, unadulterated rage. It wasn’t enough that those damn lowly Pokemon put him here, but now one had the gall to steal his greatest accomplishment from under his hooves.

“Oh will you just SHUT UP already?!” came the annoyed shout of the guards, before Control was unceremoniously punted in the face with a rock the guard had found on the ground. “Finally, I thought he was never gonna shut up,” one of the guards huffed, not caring the least bit about the now unconscious stallion. “Maybe now we can finally play that game of Poker. I’m feeling lucky today.”

“Yeah, just a minute,” the other guard said, before taking the newspaper back. “I would like to get back to my funny pages, thank you very much,” he snorted, before turning away, Control completely ignored.

A Brave New World

by Ausbrony

Chapter Twenty Eight