> Pokémon: X-traordinary
>  by Speven Dillberg
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 1


Xavier stood calmly at the summit of Mt. Coronet, surrounded by the crumbling ruins of the ancient temple. He ignored the icy winds that blew around him, cutting through his parka as though it wasn’t there. He was too focused on the strange, whirling vortex of energy before him.

“Arceus!” he yelled, his voice carrying much farther than seemed reasonable through the thick scarf wrapped around his face.

Are you sure of this, Xavier? the Gardevoir on his right asked telepathically, having called up a barrier to protect herself.

The man turned to the frail-looking green-and-white biped, clad in a strange flowing gown with a pair of red horns on her chest. Her head only came up to his neck, forcing Xavier to look down a little. “No,” he said calmly, “but you can’t change my mind, Gabrielle.”

Gabrielle sighed mentally. That is what concerns me, she thought to herself.

The blue-black-and-cream bipedal canine next to Gardevoir growled, frost forming on his large pointed ears and the spikes on his chest and the back of his hands. Xavier was able to understand the meaning behind the sounds perfectly, though.

“I know, Luca, it’s cold. But you declined the scarf I offered, it’s your fault.”

The Lucario growled again, sounding petulant. As he rubbed his hands together to create warmth, beside him a bipedal vulpine laughed, her luscious coat of dark red fur resembling a robe that insulated her from the cold.

As Luca turned to face the Delphox, who was holding out a branch thats tip was on fire, Xavier raised his hand. “You two, now is not the time,” he said commandingly. “Daphne, we’ve discussed this, no teasing Luca.”

Yes, yes, no teasing the hot-head, Daphne replied boredly, rolling her eyes. She smiled as Luca threw her a dirty look.

To Xavier’s left stood a large black hawk-like bird, a yellow biped with a white belly and stumpy arms, and a blue tortoise with a number of odd protrusions poking out of its shell. All three looked rather bored. 

“Razor, Amp, Blaster, I know, I know,” Xavier said sympathetically. “Just a little longer. I swear.” The man turned back to the swirling energy. “ARCEUS!” he screamed.

This will not end well, Daphne thought.

Yet he won’t listen to a word we say, Gabrielle replied, sounding annoyed.

“ARCEUS!” the man screamed again. “FACE ME!”

Amp and Razor glanced at each other, the Ampharos and Staraptor both worried about what would happen next.

Blaster simply stared. He’d been travelling with Xavier ever since he first entered Luminose City, as a young Squirtle, and he trusted that the trainer knew what he was trying to do.

Luca stared at the strange, otherworldly energy, and narrowed his eyes. Whatever came through was gonna fight. He knew that. And he was going to be ready, Xavier was trusting him with that.

So… The voice came from nowhere and everywhere, making everyone’s bones vibrate. You wish to face me? 

“I came here expecting a god!” Xavier yelled. “And all you do is hide!?”

INSOLENT FOOL! Arceus replied, this time the words making their very souls shake. YOU DARE MOCK ME!?

You idiot, Gabrielle and Daphne thought simultaneously. 

“Dialga, Palkia and Giratina had the guts to face me! Cresselia and Darkrai did as well!”

I had wondered what had happened to those three, the voice said, sounding a little amused. You must be powerful indeed.

“Nah, it’s all them,” Xavier replied, glancing at the six Pokémon gathered around him. Despite the cold and the mind-numbing awe they were experiencing, they couldn’t help but feel pride swell in them, warming them up.

In that case…

The six Pokémon braced themselves as the vortex split open with the sound of rotting yellow. It made noises that should not have been heard, looked like something mortal eyes should never see. But they stood strong, knowing that Xavier was relying on them, no matter how much of a fool he might be.

A large, white, vaguely-equine figure stepped out, a giant ornate ring made of gold around its midsection. It looked at them with passive eyes, its gaze lingering momentarily on Gabrielle.

They gazed at Arceus, momentarily stunned by his appearance and flow of power which radiated from his form. They could make out the general shape and colour, but none of them could be asked for a proper description. Every time they tried to focus on a single detail, it slipped away, changing, writhing like a primordial serpent.

So, you six bested Time, Space and Antimatter? Dreams and Nightmares? You are not ordinary, no.

Luca let out a roar and charged, disappearing from view as he did. In the blink of an eye he was behind Arceus, spinning around as he attempted to kick his foe. 

Luca’s smile at striking faded when he realised that Arceus had not even moved. In a flash of light Luca was sent flying into the nearest pillar, reducing it to rubble.

“Luca!” Xavier screamed, watching as the Lucario unsteadily rose to his feet.

Razor was next, rising into the air with a mighty flap of his wings. He soared high into the clouds, disappearing from sight. A few seconds later he swooped down, pulling out of a dive inches from the ground. Using the extra momentum he slammed into Arceus, his wings gleaming like steel.

As Razor pulled up, something lashed out from Arceus and grabbed him by the leg. Squawking in shock, he tried to pull away. His attempts proved futile however and in a single motion Arceus’s power sent him slamming into the stony ground.

Xavier grit his teeth as Daphne sent a withering barrage of fire towards the god. As the barrage struck she conjured up a wall of burning energy and encased Arceus in it. Burn, she thought grimly as the temperature rose and began to melt the rock surrounding the god.

Without warning, the fire died. What!? she thought desperately, waving her wand to try and restart it. 

I breathed life into every star, every planet. Did you truly believe your fire would compare to the flames of creation? Arceus asked. The god didn’t sound angry, but spoke as though it was merely pointing out a particularly interesting flower.

Daphne growled as she waved her wand, building up a psychic blast. Her concentration was cut short when the very rock she was standing on rose up against her, knocking her off balance. She barely got a chance to respond before a boulder the size of a Geodude slammed into her.

“That’s it!” Xavier yelled, having had enough of watching his team get swatted away like Venomoths. He pulled back his left sleeve, ignoring the frigid wind to reveal a strange bracelet. 

Oh?

Xavier put two fingers onto the bracelet making it shine with a brilliant light. Luca, Blaster and Amp were enveloped in strange energy, obscuring them from view.

Luca roared with Blaster as they felt new strength course through their bodies, which began to shift and change into more fearsome and powerful forms. Amp simply closed his eyes and let it happen, not feeling the need for such a display.

Blaster’s two shell cannons had migrated to the back of his hands. Instead, he now had a single gun so large it forced him to hunch over. Amp’s tail and head were now covered in luxurious, static-filled wool, glowing red orbs crackling every now and then.

Luca’s change was the most drastic, the most noticeable how his paws and hands were now a deep red. The cream fur on his chest had grown out, and his aura-sensors had grown even longer, two of them gaining crimson tips. His tail, formerly sleek and blue, was now bushy and the same colour as his chest. Luca grinned savagely as he felt the aura in the very core of his body, giving him even greater strength.

Mega Evolutions? And three at once? Arceus asked, Xavier flinching as he felt the god’s gaze focus on him momentarily. Very interesting…

Luca leapt from where he was standing so fast that the air cracked at his sudden absence. He slammed into Arceus, making the being move slightly from the force. Luca then unleashed punches, kicks and aura blasts so fast that he appeared as nothing but a blur. 

Amp and Blaster were waiting for the right moment to strike, Amp charging himself up while Blaster made sure his aim was perfect. As Luca used the momentum from a final kick to remove himself from the fight, the Blastoise and Ampharos unleashed their attacks.

Water, hitting with enough force to crack mountains, and lighting with enough power to light an entire city struck Arceus, shrouding the god in a crackling light-show. Gabrielle joined in with a blast of arctic frost, freezing the water solid, cocooning the god in a frozen prison.

Is… is that it? Daphne asked, unsteadily getting to her feet.

As Luca helped the Delphox up, Gabrielle replied. I doubt it.

Crack! All seven of them tensed up. 

A brave attempt, and an admirable show of power, the likes of which I have not seen in many years, Arceus said as the icy walls disappeared into nothingness. But futile. You could never hope to match me. The six Pokémon were suddenly grabbed by strange appendages, a mix of claw, suction cup and vice. Try as they might, they couldn’t escape.

“Then I guess it’s time for plan B,” Xavier muttered, reaching into a pocket. He drew out a purple-and-white orb, a white ‘M’ and two lighter bulbs on the purple half. He threw the Master Ball at the light, confident that this would work.

Instead, it simply bounced off with a rather mundane bonk before falling to the ground. All eight of them looked at the ball. And what did you hope to accomplish there?

“Not that,” he muttered, staring at the inert Master Ball. 

Why are you here? The wise know better than to seek me out.

He keeps calling Master an idiot, Daphne relayed to Gabrielle, smiling slightly in the god’s grip. In response, Gabrielle simply rolled her eyes.

“Because I can.”

You can also jump from a cliff, or attempt to swim in a volcano. That does not mean you should. Xavier yelped as he felt himself get lifted off the ground. Perhaps a little age will grant you some wisdom, Arceus said ominously.

A few moments passed and nothing happened as Xavier floated before Aceus. “Well?” Xavier asked.

Peculiar… Arceus tilted its head. Xerneas… So that is why. I wondered what had happened to the one who stopped the second use of the weapon.

“Can you put me down now?” Xavier asked, arms crossed in irritation.

Courageous… or fearless. I’m not sure which you are.

Neither do we, Daphne interjected.

Arceus seemed to laugh. I am not surprised.

“Thanks, Daph,” Xavier said moodily.

Someone has to stop you from getting a big head, the Delphox replied. Besides, if you want mindless fawning, that’s Gabrielle’s job.

I won’t even dignify that with a response… the Gardevoir mumbled telepathically.

“Girls, is this the time?” the man asked.

You are all quite curious… Arceus mused, each one flinching as the god’s gaze passed over them. Perhaps we have not yet concluded our business. Tell me, immortal; why did you truly seek me out?

“A challenge. I’ve walked the world for so long, and I have seen everything it has to offer, experienced all I can. Except this.”

So, boredom. That is a poor excuse, Arceus replied. Then again, your kind were not meant to shoulder such a burden. Tell me, did this match your expectations?

“No,” Xavier replied, grinning widely.

You sought me out of boredom. Perhaps I can help, and save myself the trouble of dealing with you every decade or so.

“What do you mean?” the man asked, crossing his arms.

Did you not say that you have grown tired of this world? Arceus asked.

“So, what, you’ll send me to another one?”

If you want. I could send you back in time, or into the future instead. Either will grant me a respite from what I see as a neverending string of fruitless challenges.

Luca growled and Razor glowered, not in the least bit pleased with the insinuation that they’d never become victorious. Daphne and Amp glanced at each other while Blaster flexed his arms. Gabrielle turned to look at Xavier.

“Another world. You can do that?”

I did say that. And because I’m feeling generous, I’ll even make sure it’s one you can survive on.

“What can you tell me about this place?” Xavier asked. He wasn’t going to rush in blindly. 

Finally, a sensible question. Peaceful, clean, rich... but far from harmless or without dangers.

“So not that different…”

Xavier, are you sure about this? Gabrielle asked.

“Aren’t you a little curious?” he asked, looking at the Gardevoir.

Gabrielle is right, Master. This does not seem like a good idea, Daphne added, looking worriedly at the man..

“Neither was coming up here,” he pointed out, shrugging slightly. 

Your concern is unsurprising, especially coming from you, Arceus said, turning his gaze to Gabrielle. To constantly be in the state of Mega Evolution, the bond you share must be extraordinary.

“So?” Xavier asked. 

Their concern is misplaced. If I wanted to, I could have scattered your very being to the far edges of this universe the moment you shouted my name, the god pointed out. I just want you to leave me alone. If you get to explore a whole new world in the process, what’s the harm?

The six Pokémon glanced at each other. In truth, the idea held some appeal. Tell us… what can we expect? What lives there? Daphne asked.

A wonderful little race, but I won’t say anything else. I think you’ll appreciate the surprise, Arceus replied, a sound like laughter ringing through the air. Well?

Xavier turned to his team. “I’m going, but I won’t force any of you to come. We’ve been with each other for so long. I…” The man began to tear up. “You’ve made my life so amazing, all of you. If you want to leave, though…”

You really are an idiot, Daphne replied flatly. We would never leave you, Master, you know that.

Like you said, we’ve been with each other for so long, Gabrielle added. I couldn’t imagine anything else.

Luca growled in agreement, making it clear that he had no intention of leaving the trainer’s side. Blaster did the same, while both Amp and Razor chirped, stating their desire to stay with him as well.

Where you go, Master, we will follow, Daphne stated.

Xavier lifted up his ski goggles to wipe away the tears and smiled at them. “Thank you. All of you.” He turned to face Arceus, staring directly at the being. “Do it.”





Princess Cadance’s day had been hard. Reintegrating the Crystal Empire with the rest of the world was not easy, made worse when the residents had to be educated about the numerous traditions that had sprung up in their absence. Not to mention that at least half of the population was still terrified that the guards could turn on them at any minute and haul them away to the dreadful dungeon that Cadance had discovered below the palace. Most would flinch at the mere sight of an armoured pony, if they didn’t immediately begin running in the opposite direction. Still, the tea she was drinking helped her relax.

Shining Armor had done a lot though, the stallion lying next to her on the couch in their room. Thanks to him relations between the two groups had improved significantly, by making sure that the guards appeared completely equine despite the armour. He had also made the swearing-in ceremony open to the public, so the populace could hear that their duty was to protect the innocent, enforce the law and to do as their leaders commanded, in that order.

The white stallion sighed, his eyes lazily looking at his discarded armour. He raised a glass of water to his lips and drank from it, sighing loudly. He let out a yelp when his wife unexpectedly spilled the contents of her cup all over his side. “Hot!”

It took him only a moment to recover, and he turned to look at his wife, who was staring at the wall in shock. “Cady?”

“I… I’m so sorry, Shiny, but I just had a…” The pink alicorn shook her head, messing up her three-coloured mane. “No, I must be imagining things,” she muttered, putting her empty cup on the ground.

“What was it?” the stallion asked, concern colouring his tone.

“A… a vision, seven strange figures coming from the east. One was a giant bird, and two resembled Diamond Dogs, but the rest…” The princess shuddered. “They were like nothing I’ve ever seen before.”

Shining frowned. “You’ve never had anything like that happen before.”

“It’s probably just stress,” the alicorn replied. “I should just ignore it.”

“But what if it’s not? You remember the last time we disregarded something as insignificant,” her husband warned. “At least tell your aunts.”

Cadance sighed. “Fine. I suppose we should let Twilight know as well, just in case.”

“I’ve been meaning to write to her,” Shining muttered as his wife grabbed a pair of quills, two scrolls and an inkpot from the desk across the room.
	
> Chapter 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 2


Xavier looked ahead and saw snow. He turned around and saw more snow. Everywhere he looked there was snow. It whipped through the air from every direction, reducing his visibility to almost nothing.

Are we really on another world? Daphne asked. For all we know, Arceus dumped us on Route 217 to Snowpoint.

No trees, Gabrielle pointed out. 

I can barely see my own nose, how can you possibly make out trees?

Luca shivered violently. This cold was different. On Mt. Coronet’s summit, it was something that could be toughed out. Here, though, it was like it sliced through his soul. Gabrielle had a barrier she could summon, and Daphne’s internal fire helped stave off the cold. But him, and the rest of the team? Nothing. Maybe Blaster, being so bulky, didn’t have it as bad, but the same could not be said for Amp and Razor.

Xavier noticed this. “Daphne, reckon you could clear the sky, get some light through?”

Easy. Daphne pulled out her wand and pointed it at the clouds. A pillar of white light shot up, striking the clouds and scattering them, letting the bright sun shine through. Luca sighed as he began to warm up, and nodded at her in thanks. It was still cold, but nowhere near as bad as it had been. 

As the clouds dissipated, the blizzard assaulting them waned. Xavier pulled up his ski goggles and looked around, now able to get a proper view. Apart from the snow, which he’d seen enough of to last several lifetimes, it was quite beautiful. To his right was a gigantic mountain ridge, and to his left was a seemingly endless expanse of flat fields. “Well, this doesn’t look like anywhere on Earth…” he said, pulling the scarf down off his face. He jumped up and down a few times to shake the snow from his rucksack.

We don’t just plan on staying here, do we Master? Gabrielle asked, voicing the question they were all thinking.

“No, Gabby, we won’t. And I keep telling you to call me by my name,” the man added, sounding a little annoyed.

Of course, Master Xavier, she replied cheekily.

Xavier just stared at her flatly. “Now you’re just being difficult.”

So which way will we go? Daphne asked, hoping to head off what could be an explosive argument.

“Not the mountains. Dunno about you guys, but I’ve had enough rock climbing for years,” Xavier replied with a small shudder.

So, over the never-ending plains of snow? the Delphox asked.

“Yeah, I guess. What do you guys think?” he asked, turning to the rest of his team. When they made their agreement known, he nodded. “Alright then. So, Daphne, reckon you can lead the way, melt us a path?”

The Delphox didn’t say anything, instead just pointing her wand in front of her. A jet of fire erupted from its tip, melting the snow in a straight line easily a few hundred feet away. I don’t know, can I? she asked with a smirk.





The letter that sat on Cadance’s desk was not one she liked. When she had written to her aunts about her vision, she had expected soothing words and a reminder to get enough sleep. Instead, she had learned that both her aunts had shared the same vision, except for them the strangers were coming from the north.

The letter Shining received was exactly the same. For some reason, all four princesses had the same vision. “Why?” she asked quietly.

She poked her head out of her chambers and saw her husband marching past, slipping his helmet on. “Shiny?”

The stallion glanced at her. “Sorry, Cady, but a few ponies reported flashes of fire to the east.”

“The east…” the alicorn muttered. 

“I know. That’s why I’m bringing a whole squad, just in case.” He strapped on his helmet looked the other way. “Relax darling, I’ll be fine.”

“This isn’t a coincidence, Shiny. Last night I had my vision of seven strangers coming from the east.”

“Well, we don’t know that they’re hostile Cady, maybe they’re just lost,” Shining replied. 

“Yet you’re taking a squad with you,” she pointed out.

“Better safe than sorry,” he retorted. “That, and we don’t really have any idea how far we’ll need to go.”

“Did that cold weather gear you ordered arrive yet?”

“I’m wearing it now,” Shining said, undoing his peytral and lifting it up. Where a normal set would have had thin cloth to prevent chafing, this one had a thick layer of enchanted wool. “The normal stuff just doesn’t cut it out here.”

“Promise me you’ll be careful,” Cadance whispered, grabbing him in a hug.

“Don’t worry,” the stallion replied calmly, smiling confidently. “I’m sure whatever it is will be friendly.”





I have had it with all this snow! Daphne mentally yelled as she shot another jet of flame from her wand. When I find whoever is responsible for this, I will melt the flesh from their bones!

“Aaaaaaaand she’s lost it,” Xavier muttered. Behind him Luca and Amp laughed.

We shouldn’t tease her, Gabrielle interjected. She has been at this for hours, the Gardevoir pointed out.

Xavier nodded, thankful he had sent Razor up to make sure they progressed in a straight line. He didn’t want to know what Daphne would do if she realised that they’d gone in a big circle. After what had to have been three hours, she had to be exhausted. 

It didn’t help that where they had landed the snow had been rather thin. Now they were travelling through a trench so deep they could barely see the sky. “I just hope we can get back up at some point. If these walls collapse…”

Master Xavier, what have we told you about tempting fate? Gabrielle asked, turning to glare at him.

“That only happened once,” he replied.

Yes, and we got buried under an entire swarm of Zubats, Daphne said. Do you have any idea how long it took to clean my fur after that?

At least Amp was able to get rid of most of them, Gabrielle added. 

“It was more than eighty years ago!” Xavier replied, exasperated. “Can’t you just let it go?”

No, this is more fun, the Delphox replied, grinning at him. Xavier just rolled his eyes as Luca and Amp laughed at his expense. Even Blaster let out a single chuckle. 

Xavier was actually thankful when Razor came back down and landed with a muffled thump in front of Daphne. He began to squawk and gesture forwards. “Another trench?” the man asked. “And it’s coming this way? Are you sure?” Razor looked insulted and slapped the man with a wing. “Ow! Okay, you’re sure. Daph, might wanna stop the fire for a bit.”

Thank you, she replied, letting her arm hang limply at her side, clearly fatigued by her efforts. Oh, my arm, she moaned.

“Get ready guys, for all we know whatever it is won’t be friendly,” the man warned, pulling his scarf back up.





“Snow Plow, stop.” The earth pony heading the squad turned to look at Shining Armor.

“Sir?” the pony asked.

“I think we’re close…” Shining stated, narrowing his eyes a bit. He turned sharply and looked at the armoured pegasus behind him. “Whiplash, fly up, tell me if you see anything.”

“Yes, sir,” the pegasus replied, taking to the air from their trench. “We’re definitely close, sir,” he said, flying back down a moment later. “Another trench, can’t be more than a hundred hoof-lengths. Looks like whatever made that trench melted its way here.”

“Didn’t you say we were coming this way to investigate flashes of fire?” one of the other guards asked.

Shining turned to glance at the crystal pony. He’d been one of the few who were determined to clean the reputation of the Crystal Empire’s Guard after Sombra had twisted them into his own personal secret police force. That was why he, and the rest of the new guard, wore all-silver in order to distance themselves from the darker colours the tyrant had favoured.

“Do you know of anything out here that could be responsible?” the unicorn asked.

“No, sir,” the crystal pony replied.

“What do you think it is?” another crystal pony asked.

“No idea. Snow Plow, keeping going,” Shining commanded.





“Do you hear that?”

Luca’s ears swivelled forward. There’s definitely something, Daphne replied.

It must be from the other trench. Gabrielle turned to the Lucario. Are they hostile? Luca’s eyes briefly glowed before he shook his head. Non-hostile, but wary, she elaborated.

“Guys, get ready,” Xavier ordered in a low voice. “Just because they don’t want to hurt us doesn’t mean they won’t.”

Amp’s tail orb began to glow as he began to charge it, ready to make it flash with blinding light. Blaster balled up one of his paws into his fist and punched the palm of his other. Luca’s eyes glowed again as he focused on the auras of those digging towards them. Daphne whipped out her wand and let it hang loosely, ready to rain fire on them. Gabrielle and Razor simply stood still, waiting for the moment to strike.

They certainly hadn’t expected a small herd of armoured Ponyta to step through the breech. Except for Luca, they all faltered for a moment. What. Daphne stated. Are these the natives?

I… I think so, Gabrielle commented, taking a moment to recover. This isn’t what I expected.

“What were we meant to expect?” Xavier asked. “More humans?”

We should probably greet them, Gabrielle pointed out. 

“Right,” the man muttered. “Hello!” he said loudly, waving kindly in their direction. 

I don’t think they speak the same language as us, Daphne pointed out.

“Ah.”





“What are they doing?” Shining whispered.

“I think it’s trying to communicate,” Whiplash whispered back.

“It’s doing a poor job,” Snow Plow replied.

The crystal ponies glanced nervously between the seven strange creatures before them. Nothing in their training had prepared them for anything like this. What were they supposed to do?

Shining looked the beings over. True enough, one was a giant bird, with grey, white and black plumage, while two resembled Diamond Dogs, though only in the vaguest way possible. The red-and-orange one had a more vulpine feel to it and seemed to be wearing robes, while the blue-and-black one had the stance of a graceful warrior, something the average Diamond Dog was not. That was discounting that the fox-thing had a lot of fur growing from its ears, or that the other had strange things growing from its head and metal spikes adorning its body.

Of the others, one vaguely resembled a big tortoise, though he had never seen one that was blue, nor one that had strange cannon-like things poking through its shell. The other three, he had no idea where to begin. The yellow one had a number of black markings, but didn’t look like anything he had seen before. The one with the green hair and red growths on its chest reminded Shining slightly of a ballerina but... more regal, rather like a noble mare. It also seemed to radiate kindness, despite its red eyes and clearly defensive stance.

The last, though, was definitely the oddest. It was covered entirely in clothing, clearly designed for cold weather if the padding was any indication. The bright colours made it a little hard to look at for too long, but he could tell that any distinguishing details were completely hidden by a scarf, a beanie and a pair of goggles. There was also a big, bulky bag on its back and what looked like a sheath and a knife’s handle on his hip.

“How are we meant to say anything?” another crystal pony asked.

“I don’t know…” the unicorn muttered.

They all jumped when a mare’s voice sounded through the air. Can you hear me? it asked.

“Who said that!?” Shining asked loudly, looking around.

I’ll take your reaction as a sign that you heard me, it said. Please, calm down.

“What are you?” he asked.

If you are wondering who or what is speaking to you, then please, look at the group gathered before you. As Shining and the rest of the guards did that, the one in the gown curtsied. Hello. My name is Gabrielle.

Shining just stared dumbfounded. One of the crystal guards summed things up perfectly. “Sweet merciful crap…”

I’m afraid that we are unable to understand you, the voice… Gabrielle said. I am only accomplishing this by projecting my thoughts. Before I can tell the rest that things are safe, we need to know if you mean us harm. Do you? There was a brief pause. Tap your hoof once for yes, two for no.

In a mild daze, Shining replied with a pair of stamps.

Thank you. Gabrielle bowed her head in thanks. 

Can we get on with this? a second, much harsher yet still female voice butted in.

Daphne, must you? Gabrielle asked. I am making progress.

Very slow progress, the second voice, Daphne, said. Just tell them what we want already.

Fine. Gabrielle sighed. As my… ugh, companion so tactfully pointed out, she turned to glare at the Diamond Fox, as Shining had labelled it, we would appreciate being led to somewhere warmer. We have all seen enough snow to last us years, and would be truly thankful if you were to help.

“Orders, sir?” one of the crystal ponies asked, leaning in close to whisper the question.

“Two of you, go ahead, let them that we’ll be housing… aliens.” Shining Armor finished the order as though he couldn’t believe what he had just said. 

Are you able to help us? Gabrielle asked. Receiving a single stamp, she nodded. Thank you.

“I can’t believe I’m doing this…” Shining muttered as he turned around. “We’re heading back. Whiplash, take one of the privates, bring up the rear,” he added as he started walking back in the direction they had come from.





“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Xavier whispered, looking at the armoured Ponytas they were following. They clearly weren’t Ponytas, but for lack of anything else to call them he would stick with that. The fact that a majority of them seemed to be made of crystal, or that one had wings didn’t really faze him. 

What choice do we have? Gabrielle asked, careful to limit her thought projection to only Xavier.

“True. I don’t have to like it, though. How did they know we were here?” he asked.

They probably saw me melting us a path Daphne interjected. I wasn’t exactly being subtle about it.

“True,” he conceded, but then a frown crossed his face. “Still... they got here a bit faster than you’d expect.”

Now that you mention it… Daphne replied thoughtfully. We should be careful, then.

Luca growled. “You did say that, but maybe their leaders want to hurt us,” Xavier suggested.

We mustn’t speculate, Gabrielle offered rationally. We need to place our trust in them if we want to accomplish anything.





Following the armoured Ponytas led them to a city unlike anything they had ever seen. “Okay,” Xavier said, impressed. “That is… pretty amazing.”

Is everything made out of crystals? Daphne asked. How did they even do this?

It does look beautiful, Gabrielle added. 

Their awe of the city before them was cut short when their field of view was blocked by a light blue barrier. What!? Daphne shouted, whipping out her wand again. We’ve been trapped!

Gabrielle noticed the leader, the one in purple armour, hammering away on the barrier. Wait, she said commandingly. It seems our escort is just as unaware as us.

Looking beyond the barrier, she noticed a small number of the Ponyta-like creatures approaching. The most striking features about the one that led the way was that she was bigger than the others and had both horn and wings. I’m going to try communicating with their leader, she stated.

“Are you sure about this?” Xavier asked.

You want answers for why they’re doing this. What better way to get them than straight from the Rapidash’s mouth? she asked back. Hello? she asked, projecting her thoughts as far as she felt comfortable. The Ponytas on the other side recoiled. If you can hear me, please respond.

The pink winged Rapidash, as Gabrielle labelled it (despite not being white or on fire), approached. You… can communicate like this?

Gabrielle smiled. Yes, and this makes this much easier. Tell us, she asked coldly, why are we imprisoned like this? What possible reason could you have for betraying our trust, as well as those who serve you?

The winged one’s eye went wide. No! I don’t like doing this, but there’s the risk that you may carry dangerous bacteria or viruses. They’ve already been exposed, we… we need to limit the number of ponies you make contact with.

The Gardevoir raised an eyebrow at the other’s tone. We have been quarantined? she asked, receiving a nod. And you are willing to trap your own subjects here, with us?

No, her conversation partner replied harshly. If it was up to me, I would not be risking the lives of those who look to me for leadership. However, the needs of the few are outweighed by the needs of the many. If this prevents an epidemic then… then so be it, she finished hesitantly.

My apologies, Gabrielle said, bowing her head. This must be tough. Would it trouble you to give us your name?

I… I’m not sure that would be wise, the pink one said, looking around carefully.

You fear for the safety of those around you. I can empathise. How about I start? she offered. I am Gabrielle.

There was a moment of uneasily silence. Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. Now, you must excuse me, I have matters of state to attend to.

As the Gardevoir hastily relayed their captor’s identities, and intentions, the princess turned to the stallion in the purple armour and said something to him. If they had looked, they would have seen that both of them were crying.
	
> Chapter 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 3


I’m boooooooooooored.

“Daph, come on. It’s only been three days.” It was now the the third day of their confinement, and the noonday sun hung overhead outside of their habitat.  Xavier could understand the logic. This way, if either party got sick, it couldn’t spread. If the natives caught anything from them, they could observe and develop a cure. Alternatively, if he or his team got sick, then they’d have a cure and he wouldn’t have to worry about it in the future.

The only thing they’d caught so far was cabin fever. Being stuck in this dome was starting to get on their nerves. Xavier hadn’t realised just how much he valued being able to walk wherever he wanted. Still, he was sure that Razor had it worse.

Three days too many, the Delphox sulked. How much longer do they need to keep this up?

“You heard what Gabby said. A few more days.”

Ugh. Daphne flopped down onto the small bed. 

“If you’re that bored, go fight Luca or something,” Xavier suggested, feeling a little fed up with her attitude. 

Fine, she grumbled. She didn’t move, though. 

“Do you know where Gabby is?”

Probably talking with that freaky Rapidash-thing, she replied.

“Thanks,” he said, stepping out of the room. He couldn’t but be a little amazed that, despite everything being built of crystals, they were still able to have privacy. For some reason the walls were all cloudy and opaque. 

Also, strangely enough, it was warm. He knew he shouldn’t be complaining, but on one side of their quarantine dome he could see snow. The other, green grass, those buildings made of crystal and ‘ponies’.

That was the other thing he found odd. Gabriel had been eager to share with him and the rest of the team everything their princess had told them, and the idea of a perfectly warm, habitable city surrounded by enough snow to make a Mamoswine weep was just odd. As far as he was aware, it would take a team of over a hundred Castforms to accomplish the same feat back home. But because he couldn’t see what was responsible didn’t mean that there wasn’t a large number of the natives responsible.

Master? Gabrielle’s voice said suddenly, echoing inside his head. 

“Gabby?” he asked, forgetting that she wouldn’t be able to hear him.

The princess wishes to speak with you. She doesn’t seem to believe everything I say, and wants to hear your answers. 

Xavier frowned at her tone. Something about it put him on edge, as though she was being threatened, or was very angry and barely holding onto her composure. Things had a habit of getting broken when that happened.

“I’m here,” he called out, stepping out of the building he and his team had been given. He could see Gabrielle and the princess, Cadenza, standing on opposite sides of the barrier. The princess seemed to be wearing a passive expression, but Gabrielle looked furious. To the casual observer it was impossible to tell, but Xavier had been around her for years. A slightly creased brow, a set jaw, slightly clenched fists, and a slight, almost indistinguishable purple glow around her eyes were all signs of hate and anger. “Oh boy…” He had seen what she could do, and it was not pretty.

Thank you, Gabrielle replied, still managing to maintain some semblance of calm. Princess, here he is.

“So, how are we going to do this?” the man asked.

I know you don’t like doing this, Master, but it’s the only way.

“Really?”

She won’t trust us if I relay things, she wants to hear your words from you and you alone, the Gardevoir explained. She was very adamant about that.

“Fine.” Xavier gulped and braced himself. “Do it.”

He winced as Gabrielle pulled him into the conversation. It felt like a chunk of his brain getting pulled out through his ear, and the shock left his vision blurry, and destroyed his balance. 

Master! Gabrielle shouted, catching him as he stumbled.

I… I’m okay. That always leaves me disorientated, he mumbled, waving her off. He managed to look up at the pony princess. A… a pleasure to meet you, your highness.

I’m not sure I can say the same to you, she replied cautiously. Talking with Gabrielle has been… enlightening, but some of the things she has told me are rather... disturbing.

Oh? Xavier asked.

Indeed. the princess said, her eyes narrowing slightly at him. For instance, the widespread and institutionalization of slavery among your people.

The what!? Xavier exploded. Slavery!? How dare you!? You don’t know a single damn thing about where I come from!

The princess stepped back, not expecting such a hateful outburst. Well I - 

Would you call your husband a slave for loving you? Gabrielle asked, her expression actually twisting into a sneer. Or your friends, for caring about you?

You constantly refer to him as ‘Master’, you said that he has capsules he can use to imprison you, you said that he enters tournaments and has you fight in his place! Cadenza shot back. And you say that this behaviour is applauded where you are from! Excuse me for coming to the obvious conclusion!

Dammit, Gabby, I keep telling you not to call me that, Xavier replied, facepalming.

I mean it as a bit of fun, Mas - er, Xavier, she replied, catching herself.

Her slavehood is so deeply ingrained in her that she cannot help but call you master, Cadenza said, snorting angrily. And you say that you do not practice slavery?

Xavier took a deep breath, trying to find the best way to argue this. You don’t know a single thing about my world. How would you like it if I said you brainwashed this entire city so you could rule over it?

I would call it a baseless accusation pulled from thin air without any evidence to back it up, Cadenza replied. Whereas I have facts told to me from Gabrielle’s own ‘mouth’.

Xavier growled. Okay, that had gone nowhere. Gabby, get Daphne out here. And the rest of the team, too.

Are you sure about this? she asked. When Xavier nodded, she sighed.

A moment later, the door to their accommodations flew open, revealing an incredibly furious Daphne. HOW DARE YOU!? she screamed, snarling and growling with murderous rage as waves of intense heat burnt the grass she stepped on. SLAVES!? YOU KNOW NOTHING! NOTHING ABOUT US! IF I WANTED IT WOULD TAKE BUT AN INSTANT TO REDUCE HIM TO ASH!

T-t-then why do you stay with him? Cadenza stammered, backing away as the Delphox got right next to the barrier. 

BECAUSE HE IS MY FAMILY, YOU IMPUDENT BITCH! Daphne screamed, spitting fire at her. 

Do you really think I could control her? Xavier asked. Or any of them? he added as the rest of his team appeared, each one looking murderous. Luca in particular looked ready to tear out someone’s throat. Luca could disembowel me with a punch. Amp could and has electrocuted me. Blaster could take me underwater and let me drown, or stuff my head into one of his cannons and let me suffocate. Razor could rip me to shreds with his talons. And Gabby could shatter my mind into a trillion pieces and leave me brain-dead.

And yet... they don’t, Cadenza said quietly and then nodded towards Gabrielle. And the amount of love she has for you... she trailed off for a moment and shook her head. I must seek counsel... wait here. The mare then hurried away, looking quite concerned.

Either things are better now, or we dug our graves, Xavier thought darkly.

Then we’ll dig ourselves out, Gabrielle replied.

Slaves!? Daphne yelled, still literally fuming.





Lunchtime was usually a very quiet affair in the castle, the two Royal Sisters eating in a private dining room where they weren’t to be disturbed. However, exceptions were made for those bringing matters of state to their attention.

Princess Celestia looked down at such a letter she’d just received and let out a sigh. Cadance, for all of her virtues, was still rather young... and it appeared rather rash as well. Apparently, she had yet to learn one of the most important lessons of being a Princess; things were hardly ever what they appeared to be on the surface especially when it came to meeting new cultures.

In these cases it was usually better to err on the side of caution instead of jumping to conclusions, despite the apparent evidence to back up your conclusion. Cadance had severely insulted Xavier and his friends who were now understandably angry and the Princess of Love was floundering.

“You know, it does sound very similar to slavery,” Luna, who was sitting beside her, said cautiously. “It is not wholly unreasonable that Cadance jumped to the conclusion she did,” she added, placing her fork into her mouth as she finished off her slice of cake.

“True,” Celestia admitted, “especially given what the Crystal Ponies suffered under Sombra. Still, she acted without full knowledge of the situation and now we have half a dozen alien beings who reportedly possess a variety of very potent abilities infuriated at her,” she continued, shaking her head.

Luna simply nodded. “What are we to do, sister?” the midnight alicorn asked.

“Well, as I see it, we have several options,” Celestia answered. “One of us can go ourselves, most likely you as there are still unfortunately few attendees to Night Court and I am, as usual, fully booked,” she began.

“Indeed, it is most disheartening,” Luna agreed, lowering her head to look at the floor a bit. Celestia leaned over and gave her sister a gentle nuzzle.

“Give it time Lulu,” she said softly before pulling back and continuing her list. “We could also send Twilight, after all, she has no formal duties as of yet aside from fixing up our old castle,” Celestia continued. 

“But that is hardly a proper solution,” Luna interjected. “After all, if Cadance has had problems dealing with these aliens, then dear Twilight will as well. Most likely more so really.”

Celestia nodded. “I know, I was not done sister,” she stated, a soft smile on her lips. 

Luna rolled her eyes heavenward but motioned for her to continue without comment.

“The last option, the one which I feel would be best is if both you and Twilight go together,” Celestia stated. “That way, you will temper each others’ flaws. After all, you are still adjusting to the way we do things now, and Twilight will most likely prove to be far too enthusiastic to handle the situation in the way that is necessary.” 

“I see the logic behind that,” Luna said, nodding her head slightly. “And to be honest sister, it would be nice to see Twilight on an occasion where we need not worry about the world collapsing around us should she fail to complete a task.”

“I had thought you’d enjoy it for that reason as well,” Celestia agreed, giving her sister a smile. “In truth, so would I... it has been far too long since she and I simply talked without matters of great importance weighing on our minds.”

“I shall go locate Twilight, then,” the younger said, flapping her wings to remove any stiffness.





With a pop! the Princess of the Moon appeared in front of Twilight’s home, Ponyville’s library. She couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow, though, at the unusual amount of noise coming from the tree-slash-building.

“Out! Out! If you come back here again I’ll have you arrested!” There was a second voice, much quieter and almost impossible to make out.

Luna raised an eyebrow when a maroon stallion popped into existence outside the front door, his mouth open in mid-speech. From a glance she could see he was wearing a finely-tailored suit and that he was impeccably groomed.

Twilight poked her head out the door. “Any sort of political boot-licking is banned within this library!” she yelled.

“But - ” was all the stallion could say before his mouth disappeared.

“You’ll get that back in a few hours. Maybe by then you’ll have something intelligent to say!” With that, Twilight slammed the door so hard the branches rattled.

Luna rolled her eyes and walked up to the door, ignoring the panicking noble. “Twilight Sparkle?” she asked, knocking politely on the door.

“I said stay out!” the other pony yelled angrily through the door. Then the door opened. “P-p-princess Luna!?” Twilight squawked, the purple alicorn’s eyes going wide with shock. “I-I’m so sorry, I thought - ”

“You don’t need to explain yourself to me, Twilight,” Luna said calmly. “The amount of self-control is takes to not remove their ability to breathe takes years to build up. How my sister does it, I have no idea,” she added.

“Why are you here, Princess Luna?” Twilight asked, stepping aside to let the bigger pony in.

“You don’t need to call me ‘Princess’, Twilight. Or do you want me to do the same to you?” Luna asked.

“R-right, sorry,” she stammered. “Force of habit.”

“No, I understand,” Luna replied, walking into the main room. “Besides, there are more pressing matters at hoof. Have you been in contact with Cadance recently?”

“No, not since my brother sent me that letter about the visions.” Twilight’s eyes went open. “Did something happen to her!?”

“No, no. Our visions were prophetic in nature, though, and she currently has the beings from that vision in quarantine,” Luna explained. “Diplomatic talks have… hit a snag, I think is the best way to put it.”

“Wait, quarantine?” Twilight tilted her head. “What happened?”

“Just a precaution,” Luna replied, “In case anything they carried proved harmful. So far, results seem to indicate that those exposed aren’t suffering any adverse effects.” She cleared her throat. “Anyway, Cadance made an assumption about their culture, and severely angered them. From what she told us, one of them spat fire at her.”

“So… a dragon?” Twilight asked, now more confused.

“No, your brother described it as a vulpine counterpart to the Diamond Dogs, with colouration to match. How it can breathe fire, though, is a mystery to us.”

“Oh. I can see why that would be a problem. But why are you telling me this?” Twilight asked, realising moments later that it was all she seemed to be doing.

“We are hoping to defuse the situation, and we hoped that you would accompany us.” Luna blinked. “Me. Accompany me,” she corrected, scowling at her mistake.

“Oh. Oh!” Twilight brightened. “You want me to help?”

“That is what I just said, yes,” Luna said cautiously.

“You want my help. You want my help!” Twilight squealed and began doing a little dance, jumping from hoof to hoof in glee.

“Twilight Sparkle!” Luna shouted commandingly, making the purple alicorn stop. “This is serious! Of the seven beings, six of them are capable of catastrophic amounts of damage. The last appears to be able to control them with nothing more than words. If we do not undo the damage Cadance has done, the Crystal Empire could suffer billions of bits in damage. And that is before we take into consideration the possibility of the loss of life…”

Twilight looked down in shame. “S-sorry. Just, the idea of actually doing something substantial instead of dealing with the nobility…” She paused to take a few deep breaths. “We really need to do something to limit their powers.”

“That can wait. These alien visitors are much more important at the moment.”

“Aliens. As in, not of this world?” When Luna nodded, Twilight began to squeal and dance again. “EEEEEEEEEEEE!”

“Urgh…” Luna muttered, her hoof meeting her face.
	
> Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 4


Xavier yawned loudly as he woke up. He and his team were still angry about the princess’s words the day before, and it showed. His sleep hadn’t been as restful as he’d have liked, leaving him with bags under his eyes and a solid frown.

“Stupid princess and her stupid accusations…”

His complaining was halted when Gabrielle put a dainty arm around him and pulled him closer. He couldn’t help but smile at her touch, something about it was innately soothing, especially in what could be considered such an intimate setting. “Good morning to you, too,” he said happily.

Hmm? Her eyes fluttered open. Oh. Good morning, Xavier. Are the others awake?

“I don’t think so. Why?” he asked. “Gabby…” 

What? she asked innocently as her hand travelled down his bare chest, tracing his muscles. 

“Really? Now?”

Why not? Who knows what that witch might do to us. Best make use of what time we have, the Gardevoir replied, using her other hand to place one of his between her chest horns.

“Well, when you put it like that…” Xavier grinned as he pulled her on top of him.

Oh! The pair moaned happily as they explored each other’s mouths with their tongues. Oh Master…

Xavier was enjoying himself too much to remind her not to call him that. Instead he moved his hand below her gown.

Gabrielle let out a yelp and pulled away from the kiss. Ooh, Master, she said seductively. You know what that does to me…

“That’s why I did it,” he growled, squeezing her again.

She giggled as she slowly removed his pants with her telekinesis. I hope you’re ready…

Suddenly, there was a loud THUD from outside, killing the mood. “What the hell?” Xavier asked, looking over at the door.

Great, Gabrielle thought bitterly, and it was just starting to get fun.

“There’ll always be another time,” Xavier said confidently, pulling his pants back up. 

I hope so, Gabrielle answered as she got out of the bed. Or I am going to be really angry at them, she added.

“Because we can’t have sex?” he asked, pulling on a shirt.

That’s not what it is to me, she replied. Well, not everything, she conceded when Xavier gave her a look. It lets us express how much we really love each other, in a way that brings us together like nothing else could.

Xavier couldn’t help but smile. “Yeah, guess it makes sense that you’d see it like that.”

And we both know that if you asked Daphne she’d set your shirt on fire, Gabrielle added cheekily.

“What, and make Luca angry?”

Wait. Those two? But they’re always fighting, she replied, struggling to imagine the pair not being snide to each other.

“I wasn’t being serious. Now come on, let’s see what that noise was,” Xavier said, opening the door.

What in the…? 

The pair found themselves staring at a purple horned ‘pony’ on the other side of the barrier. It had smooshed its face against the barrier and had two hooves next to its head, as though it was trying to push its way through.

“We got out of bed for this?”





Luna facehoofed at the sight before her. Twilight, in her eagerness to meet their guests, had ran face first into the barrier, and was even now trying to... dig her way through it. What made this worse was that Luna could clearly see the aliens identified as Gabrielle and Xavier standing in the doorway, staring at Twilight. 

So much for a good first impression, Luna thought to herself as she walked up and grabbed Twilight in her magic, electing a squeak of surprise, and moved her back. “We will have a discussion on professionalism later,” she said disapprovingly. “For now, observe.”

Twilight’s face lit up with a scarlet blush as she realised what she’d been doing and looked down.

“Sorry,” she muttered. “I’m just excited...”

Luna sighed. “I understand, but we need to make a good impression to our guests,” she explained. “And I’m afraid your display has damaged our chances,” the bigger pony added as Xavier retreated to his housing.





I’ll deal with this, Gabrielle said warily. Xavier, put some clothes on, would you?

“Don’t you like it better when I don’t have clothes?”

Yes, but I’d rather we make a better impression, and you half-naked doesn’t exactly accomplish that, she pointed out. Please?

“All right. I’m pretty sure I can find a pair of jeans or something…” Xavier turned and walked back into the house. 

That’ll do, she said to herself. This way I won’t be constantly distracted… she muttered as she focused her gaze on the two ponies beyond the barrier.

They shared the same features of Cadenza, though one was smaller while the other was taller. The larger one was a deep indigo, with a mane and tail that looked like slices of the night sky. The other, smaller one, had a violet coat and a slightly darker purple shaded mane with a single line of pink running through it, she was also grinning widely once again. The larger shot the smaller a glance and closed her eyes tiredly, as if she’d dealt with this type of behavior often.

Hello? Gabrielle asked cautiously, projecting her thoughts.





Luna’s eyes widened momentarily when the being known as Gabrielle contacted them. “Now, Twilight, leave this to me. We must tread carefully.”

Twilight was too busy saying “Omigoshanalienjusttalkedinmyheadandaahahahha!” over and over again to respond. Luna rolled her eyes and pressed onwards, hoping that the youngest alicorn would regain control of her sanity.

Hello? Are you Gabrielle? she asked.

Yes, the biped answered, nodding her head a little. Who are you?

I am Princess Luna and this is Princess Twilight Sparkle, Luna said, gesturing at the still-stammering Twilight. Please excuse her, she is rather… excitable, she added.

Oh. Luna noticed Gabrielle’s mental tone became strained, as though she was controlling her emotions. A pleasure.

We are here on behalf of Equestria to apologise for Princess Mi Amore Cadenza’s earlier actions, Luna said, pressing on.

We expect the apology to come from her and her alone. Luna could definitely pick up the frost in her tone.

I… see. Luna coughed. Could you explain to us how you came to travel here with Xavier? she asked. 

Do you want to know how we came to this land, or why we travel with Xavier? Gabrielle asked. 

Can you answer both? Luna asked, keeping her mental voice neutral and unchallenging.

If it proves that we are not slaves and Xavier did not enslave us… Gabrielle looked to the house. When someone called back, she faced Luna and nodded. I was one of the first to join Xavier’s team, after he defeated the Santalune City’s gym leader. I was just a young Ralts at the time, and I could sense that Xavier was a good person. I very nearly defeated Daphne before he managed to capture me.

Captured? Luna asked.

It sounds worse without context, Gabrielle admitted. In my world, many Pokémon view being captured by a trainer as being deemed worthy to travel with one. With Xavier I have travelled across the world and seen and done things the likes of which most cannot imagine. In giving up life in the wild, I was able to reach my full potential. For that, I am truly thankful.

Does he treat you well?

Gabrielle snorted. We are equals. Family. And if any of wanted to leave, we would. He made that clear years ago.

Luna remained quiet for a moment before nodding her head slowly. I see... that answers my second question; now, what of my first?

Xavier decided we were powerful enough to face Arceus, creator of… everything, in battle. He was wrong.

Luna’s eyes widened. You faced a god and survived? she asked in awe.

Well, it wasn’t the first time we had done such a thing, Gabrielle stated casually. 

The alicorn’s eyebrow rose archly, not from disbelief... but more out of curiosity. Indeed?

Oh yes, there are Pokémon who are responsible for controlling time, space and antimatter. We bested them.

Lina had to struggle to not gape. I… I see, she replied, trying to remain calm. An almost amused smile had time to cross Gabrielle's lips before Luna asked her next question. Though that does not explain why this 'Arceus' did not kill you for an assault of that nature.

Arceus saw us as a nuisance, not worth the effort. When Xavier expressed a desire to do something he had never done before, we were sent here.

And why did you choose to face down such a powerful being?

We didn’t choose, she replied simply. We trust Xavier’s judgement, though I... may have had some reservations against facing such a foe, Gabrielle admitted. He has rarely steered us wrong. The few times he has, he admits his mistakes and learns from them.

Luna nodded I see. I must leave for now.

Oh?

Yes. I hope we can speak again soon. Luna turned and walked away, leaving the other pony to stare at Gabrielle in awe. Luna came back and picked up Twilight, dragging her along the ground long enough for the smaller pony to realise what was happening.

“What’d I miss?” Gabrielle turned around to see Xavier walking towards her, putting his arm through the sleeve of a black jacket.

Oh, nothing, she replied with a smirk.





“Luna?” Twilight asked as she walked alongside Luna towards the Crystal Empire. 

“Things are much worse than I expected,” the indigo alicorn muttered.

“But was she telling the truth?”

Luna looked at Twilight with a raised brow. “What do you mean?”

“If they can make us believe they’re that powerful, then don’t they get to dictate the terms of any agreement we make?”

It took a moment the meaning of her words to dawn on Luna. “Ah. I see it was wise of me to bring you along. I was worried you would be too busy gawking at Gabrielle.”

“Can you blame me? She looks so fragile!”

“And she has bested gods,” Luna added darkly.

“Well, that’s what she says,” Twilight replied as they entered the palace.

“She did say that it was done as a team with the five other empowered beings, but the implications…”

“If they really are that powerful, they could take over the world…” the younger alicorn muttered. “What are we going to do?”

“We are going to give them what they want. For now, at least. Cadance!” Luna bellowed, announcing herself as she entered the throne room.

“Auntie!” Cadance replied, hoping her heart would stop trying to force itself out of her body. “Why are you yelling?”

“Are the tests back? Are they carrying anything that may harm anypony?” she asked loudly, ignoring the pink alicorn.

“Well, no, everything seems to indicate that we are not at any risk. Why is that - ”

“Have the quarantine barrier lowered. Immediately!” Luna ordered.

“Auntie Luna, you can’t just - ”

“Cadance, I’m sorry, but as your superior I can and will overrule your decisions. Especially when they can prove disastrous for us all.”

“So is that all I am, a puppet ruler?” Cadance accused. “Somepony to be swept away when I say something you and Auntie Tia disapprove of?”

“When you anger beings who have faced and bested gods, then yes,” Luna stated bluntly. “We may only have the one chance to make things right. And to do that you need to march yourself down there and apologise.”

“I… I…” The pink alicorn stammered.

“Or would you rather they break out? Luna asked pointedly. “The only reason they remain within quarantine is that they do not know they can escape.”

“Fine! Fine, you’ve made your point.” Cadance rose from her throne, grumbling at her aunt. “I still don’t like this, though. I don’t care what you or anypony else says, their entire relationship reeks of a slave-and-master arrangement.” 

“Regardless, it is in our best interests to placate them,” the elder alicorn pointed out.

“Twilight? What do you think?”

“Who-wha-me?” the purple alicorn stammered, her mind still playing catch-up.

“Twilight? Are you okay?” Cadance asked. 

“Sorry. Just, didn’t expect to watch you two argue like that,” she admitted.

“It wouldn’t be any good if Cadance were a yes-mare, Twilight,” Luna pointed out. “Healthy debate is a good thing between rulers.”

“Right. Well,” she cleared her throat, “even if they’re exaggerating or outright lying about their accomplishments, it wouldn’t be right to keep them imprisoned. I doubt that any of them would cause harm to anypony without a good reason, and with the tests saying that they won’t be responsible for any kind of pandemic…”

“Always the voice of reason, Twilight,” Cadance said with a tired smile. “Okay. They will be kept under guard though, both to protect them from the citizens and to protect the citizens from them.”

“A valid concern,” Luna mused. “It must be subtle, though. Otherwise, they may react negatively.”

“Or…” Twilight said slowly. The other two turned to look at her. “Or we could have somepony accompany them under the pretense of being a guide, to ease them into our world. We’re not sure just how much our cultures differ, so having somepony to work as a go-between should help smooth over any incidents.”

Luna smiled. “Sister was right in telling me to bring you along, Twilight.”

“But who would the guide be?” Cadance asked. “I can’t think of many ponies that could be considered trustworthy enough.”

“And it can’t be one of us,” Luna added.

“What? Really?”

“Auntie’s right. It could be seen as an attempt to twist their perception of the world in our favour,” the pink alicorn added.

“But wouldn’t that be a good thing?” Twilight asked.

“Right up until they realise that is the case. Then they may turn violent,” Luna replied darkly.

“So… what?” Twilight asked. “Who can we trust with something like that?”
	
> Chapter 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 5


“Gabby, we’re meant to be getting their trust. Not scaring them into letting us out.”

That always surprises me, Daphne noted calmly, watching as Xavier paced around their little house. She’s so sweet and polite and before you know it she’s threatening to knock over buildings.

I am right here, Gabrielle replied, shooting a look at the Delphox. And I didn’t say anything. All I did was inform this ‘Luna’ of some of our accomplishments.

“Oh for the love of…” Xavier put his face in his hands. “You told her about the Creation Trio? Really?”

Gabby, I swear you’re smarter than this, Daphne said, sounding a little perturbed. Isn’t it Luca’s job to be all scary like that?

The Gardevoir looked at the ground in shame. I… I admit that I let my emotions get the better of me. I was still upset about Cadenza accusing Xavier of enslaving us. I wanted to reinforce the idea that he did no such thing, I just went overboard.

Xavier sighed. “Gabby, I appreciate the thought, I really do, but - “

BOOOOM!

“What was that?” he asked as the building shook.

it sounded like one of Luca’s aura spheres.

“That’s what I was worried about…” Xavier opened the door and looked outside. “Oh for the love of Arceus!”

He watched as Luca soared through the air, an arm pulled back as he prepared to throw a punch. He watched on as Amp jumped out of the way and spat a beam of crackling electricity, saturating the area in sparks.

They’re really going at it, Daphne commented as Luca left a crater when he tried to hit Amp with a blast of force.

Xavier just growled and waded into the fight. “Enough!” His voice, and the fact that he had almost walked right into the path of a thunderbolt, were enough to stop the pair. But it didn’t stop Luca from complaining, letting out a huff of irritation. “Look, I get that, I do, but this is not the time or place. We need to show them that we’re not going to destroy a city.” He surveyed the damage they had caused. “And leaving craters in the ground is not helping our case.”

He’s right, y’know, Daphne added. After Gabby scared them with stories, the last thing we need is to give them tangible evidence. She rolled her eyes at Luca when he growled something in response. Breaking down the shield does not help us, you idiot. I don’t even know if we can, she added after a brief pause.

“No, Amp, you can’t find out if you can,” Xavier replied, rolling his eyes. “What did Daphne just say?”

There was a dull roar from behind them, and the sound of running water. They all turned to see Blaster filling the crater with water from his shell cannons, before wading in and letting out a contented sigh. “Well at least someone’s enjoying themselves.” Blaster just let out a happy ‘mrrrghl’ in reply.

Well, at least we can say that Luca made the hole because Blaster wanted a pool, Daphne pointed out. The baths here are nowhere near big enough for him, after all.

“And how’re we gonna explain the explosions and the lightning?” Xavier asked.

Creative remodelling? Gabrielle asked, stepping out of the building. Okay, that was bad, she admitted when Xavier gave her a flat stare.

“I can’t imagine anyone who would buy that excuse.”

Somewhere far away, a pink pony sneezed.

“And aren’t those ponies that brought us here still in here with us?” he added.

The Pokémon blinked. I… I actually forgot about them completely, Daphne mumbled.

They have spent the whole time holed up on the other side of the dome, Gabrielle pointed out. 

“I wonder why...” Xavier mused to himself with a frown. “You didn’t go and scare them as well, did you Gabby?”

She let out an aggravated sigh. I didn’t even mean to the first time. If anything, Daphne did that when she came out spitting fire at Princess Cadenza.

When she throws around those kinds of accusations, I’ll start throwing fire in response, the Delphox replied, sticking her nose into the air. At least I have the decency to appear dangerous. I don’t look as fragile as an ice sculpture.

“Girls, now is not the time for this,” Xavier said, interrupting their argument. He pushed them away from each other. “What we should be worried about is - ”

Excuse me?

“Who was that?” he asked, his train of thought violently derailed.

That’s one of the other princesses, Luna, Gabrielle explained. We should go.

I’m coming! Daphne exclaimed. I want to get an apology out of Cadenza.

“We don’t even know if she’ll be there,” Xavier pointed out. “And if you try and burn it out of her, I’ll have Blaster hydro pump you.”

Oh not that, it takes ages to get my fur to dry properly. I’ll look like a walking pom-pom!





“Are you sure about this, auntie?”

“Cadance, you apologising is probably the only way we can truly regain their trust,” Luna pointed out. 

“I don’t like this,” the pink alicorn muttered.

“It’s not about what you like, Cadance, but what has to be done. I would like to bring down a plague on the noble houses of Canterlot in the hope that the intelligent ones survive, but you don’t hear me complaining about not being able to.” 

Twilight stood a little off to the side, deep in thought. She had only seen two of the aliens, the ones named Gabrielle and Xavier. She had only heard vague descriptions of the rest and, while she was eager to see them as well, couldn’t help but worry. If their claims were right, then they were about to let half a dozen beings with destructive capabilities to rival Discord free.

“We need to get them to agree to be peaceful,” she said suddenly. Cadance and Luna looked at her “I don’t know how much good it’ll do,” she admitted, “but it’ll put a lot of minds at ease, and we can use it as grounds to enforce good behaviour.”

Luna smiled. “Quite the politician, Twilight. My sister was wise in choosing you as her personal student.”

Twilight glowed at the praise. “I admit that it’s a start, but it still won’t be enough,” Cadance interjected. “Ponies will either flock to them, trapping and potentially scaring them, or flee, hurting their feelings. Both could be disastrous.”

“True. And like we discussed earlier, a permanent guard presence could be even worse,” Luna said. “Maybe a single guard, a unicorn that could learn the telepathy required to communicate with them effectively?”

“That’s a good idea,” Twilight agreed. “But it’ll be better if we have a volunteer rather than someone ordered to be around them. A volunteer would likely be friendlier and more willing to help.”

“True.” Luna raised a hoof when she saw them approaching. “Shh, here they come.” She glanced at Twilight. “And remember, don’t bombard them with questions until we know they are willing to cooperate.”

Hello, the serene voice of Gabrielle said. It is nice to see you again. Behind her, the fox-like being scowled.

As it is to see you, Luna replied, nodding her head respectfully. 

So, why are you here?

Luna couldn’t help but frown a little at her tone. Several reasons. The tests we performed indicate that you aren’t a threat to us, at least in terms of viruses or disease. I’ll have to ask our scientists if we are simply immune or completely incompatible, but you and the ponies in quarantine can now be released. She glanced at Twilight, who nodded. The purple alicorn’s horn glowed briefly as the barrier faded from view.

The alicorns ducked when the giant bird took to the sky and let out a terrifying screech. They watched as it rose up past the clouds before swooping back down, landing next to Xavier. When he started petting it they calmed down.

We’re sorry about Razor, he doesn’t take to captivity well, Gabrielle said as Xavier began to rub Razor’s neck and coo soothingly. You said you were here for several reasons. You’ve already explained one, but what are the others?

The alicorns were quiet for a moment before Luna shot Cadance an annoyed look and nudged her out in front with a hoof.

I... I um... Cadenza stuttered before shaking her head. Gabrielle, I would like to apologize on behalf of both the Crystal Empire and myself for the atrocious slander that I labeled both you and your... master with. She paused for a moment before continuing. It was wrong of me, and... I should not have acted without knowledge of the full situation.

Daphne’s expression changed suddenly. Why, if I may ask, she said, looking at the pink alicorn curiously, were you so adamant that we were slaves?

Until quite recently, the Crystal Empire, where you are now, was under the command of a tyrant who enslaved the populace.

Oh. She turned away and grimaced. Then let me apologise for letting my temper get the best of me. I should have realised you would not have made such accusations without good reason.

Cadance looked around nervously. Yes, well, it doesn’t help that my - 

“CADANCE!” They all turned to the source of the voice to see a white stallion galloping at full speed towards them. Xavier and his Pokémon tensed up, but Cadance smiled widely and let him tackle her. Before they even hit the ground they were kissing, deeply.

Oh, Gabrielle said as she watched them move in ways she didn’t know quadrupeds could. I guess her behaviour is excusable…

“Argh!” Twilight screamed, looking away with a disgusted look on her face. “Shiny, Cadance, I’m right here!”

“Please, you two, return to the castle,” Luna said, rolling her eyes. “We can take care of things from here.”

Shining and Cadance looked up from their embrace, and realized that everyone was staring at them.

“Um yes, right, the castle,” Shining said with an awkward nod. “Paperwork, err, laws. Yes, paperwork, sweet sweet paperwork.”

“Yes. Paperwork, sweet sweaty paper-”

“Did they just use ‘paperwork’ as code for ‘sex’?” Twilight asked, putting a hoof to her mouth as the pair disappeared with a flash of light.

Well that happened, Daphne noted.

Err... yes, yes it did, Luna said, shaking her head. Our apologies…

Oh, no, don’t. I’ve seen it before. There was this one time when Gabrielle was separated from Xavier for a week. When they saw each other again she used her telekinesis to -

We agreed to never discuss that! Gabrielle shouted, making everyone wince. Besides, it was no worse then when you and-

I didn’t know you enjoyed third-degree burns, Daphne snarled, her hackles raised as she pulled a stick from up her sleeve.

Xavier sighed. Although he was puzzled by what Gabrielle had been about to say, he ignored it and stepped between them, once again forcing the two apart. He shot Luna an apologetic half-smile and shrugged slightly.

Back to the matter at hoof, the elder alicorn said uneasily, there is one more thing to discuss. She cleared her throat. Before we are comfortable letting you move freely in our lands, we wish to ensure that you will not harm any of our citizens.

Gabrielle turned to look at Xavier, who quickly said something. We will not attack anyone unless it is in self-defense. Even then we will only subdue them and ensure that their injuries are non-life threatening.

Luna and Twilight scowled a little. It wasn’t what they wanted, but they knew it was as close as they were going to get. That will be acceptable. We will also be assigning you with an escort. They will act as a guide and translator, as many of our ponies are unused to the idea of someone talking inside their heads.

That seems acceptable, Gabrielle nodded. It wouldn’t hurt to learn more of this place, until Arceus decides we’ve spent enough time here.

Umm… They all turned to look at the other alicorn, Twilight Sparkle. Could I ask you a few questions? she asked. 

Gabrielle noted that her telepathic voice was shaky, as though she was new to this. I suppose it couldn’t hurt, she said calmly, not knowing just what she had agreed to.

Really? Great! I was wondering about...
	
	
> Chapter 6
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 6


She’s still going…

“I’ve seen scientists with less enthusiasm.”

Shortly after the two groups had come to an agreement, the trainer and his team were led to the castle, the giant crystal spire they had seen from before they had even stepped foot into the Crystal Empire. The Crystal Ponies themselves reminded him of the stories he had heard of the Crystal Onix in the Orange Archipelago. 

The whole walk, they had been watched. None of the stares were hostile, though a few looked at them in fear. For the most part, though, the ponies were simply curious. Xavier knew that it made sense, what with being an alien visitor. They had undoubtedly been talking about him and his team. 

They had been in the Crystal Empire’s palace for several hours now, specifically the rooms that had been set aside for them. They were so lavish that they made the five-star resorts they’d stayed in over the years look like one-room huts with dirt floors. 

The youngest princess had accompanied them, having literally conjured a notepad and a pencil from somewhere. It had been three hours since she had started, and she was still asking Gabrielle questions at a speed which would put an Alakazam to shame.

I’m not sure I can answer that, they heard her say as calmly as she could. That sounds like something Daphne would be better qualified to explain.

What. The Delphox gaped at the Gardevoir briefly. No. No! Don’t you dare do this to me! Don’t you dare, or I swear by Palkia I will -

Before she could finish her death threat she heard Twilight’s telepathic voice. Miss Daphne?

Just… Daphne is fine, she replied, quickly composing herself. Behind her she heard Luca bark out a laugh, so she whipped out her wand and shot a fireball at him. Smiling as he yelped, she asked Now, what was your question? as Gabrielle glided towards Xavier.

“That was cruel,” the man said.

If she hadn’t kept making fun of me, I wouldn’t have done that. Gabrielle watched as Luca massaged his tail gingerly, shooting Daphne a furious glare. Besides, I was honestly running out of answers. She is relentless.

“Was it really that bad?”

Xavier, my brain feels as if it has been put through a blender, she said flatly, staring at him. The last time that happened -

“Was when we challenged Diantha the first time, you told me about that.” Xavier let out a whistle and leaned back onto the bed. “Just what did she ask?”

It started innocently enough. Then she wanted a list of every single documented Pokémon…

“You’re joking.”

I wish I was. Hmm, this is a nice bed, Gabrielle thought. I guess we can look forward to breaking it in later.

“What am I gonna do with you?” he asked, sighing at her behaviour.

She turned to look at him. After this, I think I deserve it, Xavier, she told him seriously.

“Hey, I never said we wouldn’t. I’m just wondering why you seem more… I dunno, frisky, than normal.”

I know what you mean. For some reason I’ve been feeling… ugh, I can’t find the words, she replied, annoyed with herself. But I just want to be as close to you as I can. Even if it’s just holding you, that’s enough for me.

Xavier chuckled and put an arm around her. “And it’s enough for me,” he said warmly, pulling her closer.

Meanwhile, Daphne was still shooting withering glares at Gabrielle in between answering countless questions from Princess Twilight while Luca sniggered in the background.

So, Daphne, Gabrielle told me that on your world different breeds of Pokémon can breed with one another and produce fertile offspring, something that is unheard of here in Equestria barring the use of magic. Can you explain how that became socially acceptable or perhaps share some insight into it? Twilight asked her curiously.

Daphne took a moment to think. Well, I suppose the breeding aspect comes from our history, when humans and Pokémon fought side-by-side on battlefields. Some Pokémon are capable of techniques that, unless you’re born with them or its something your kind is known for, can’t be learned.

So… Pokémon were used as weapons? Twilight asked, sounding disturbed by the notion.

I just said that humans and Pokémon fought side-by-side. Wars back then were devastating. When one side is capable of forcing the very earth to crack open beneath them, and the other commands blizzards, it’s not surprising that more than a few areas are completely uninhabitable, she said darkly. And those were just the milder examples. I’ve read a few of the history books and, trust me, when I say entire cities were wiped from the face of the planet, that is not an exaggeration.

I... I see, Twilight answered with a small, shaky nod. Um... so... I see.

We got a little sidetracked, didn’t we? Daphne asked.

Yeah. Um, a little. The alicorn laughed nervously. So, it started through trying to… breed better soldiers?

When you put it like that it sounds disgusting. But yes, you’re right. Now, it’s just the way things are, and have been for centuries.

Alright... and what are your feelings about it? Twilight asked her. If given the chance would you prefer a male Delphox or something else? the mare inquired, then she blushed. Sorry, I’m just trying to get a better idea of how this works overall.

Daphne chuckled. Looks and species aren’t everything. I refuse to go anywhere near some arrogant blowhard in that way, no matter what. They have to prove that they deserve respect. Whether they are another Delphox or not is irrelevant. She paused for a moment and then shrugged. But that’s just me. More than a few are perfectly happy finding love within their own species.

Ah, alright, Twilight said with a small nod, hastily scribbling it down. Now, what about relationships between Pokemon and humans? I gather that it’s not a very widespread occurrence, yet Xavier and Gabrielle seem content and happy together.

Daphne snorted. It was one of those things that fell out of favour. I guess those relationships initially started because the wars left very small populations of both humans and Pokémon, so they were willing to look anywhere for companionship. It still happens, but it’s pretty rare. Of course, given the circumstances, it’s not surprising that they fell into each other’s arms.

Circumstances? Twilight inquired curiously. What circumstances?

Other than the fact that he has spent more time in our company than with other humans? Daphne asked. Well, it would be that all seven of us share the same burden, the same curse, if you will.

You’re cursed? Twilight asked with a slight frown, staring at the Delphox intently. But, there’s no such thing as a curse.

Not a literal curse, Daphne explained. There are very few Pokémon blessed with immortality, and they all know how to cope with it. Some are long-lived, their lifespan measured in centuries. We were unsure which ours truly is, but our encounter with Arceus confirmed that we are indeed immortal. The only thing keeping us sane is each other, she said sadly.

Twilight took a few moments to digest that. I... see, she said at last. So the reason that Xavier and Gabrielle are together is…

They will not have to watch the other age and pass away. They have someone they can hold in their heart and never have to replace. 

Twilight nodded slowly. I understand... I wish I were so lucky... though I have no feelings for anypony at the moment.

You share our curse as well? Daphne asked, surprised. 

Yes, all four alicorns, myself, Cadence, Luna, and Princess Celestia, are immortal, Twilight answered. Along with a hoofful of others scattered across the world.

Then at least you are not alone. It is easier to deal with the repercussions with someone who understands.

I’ve heard, Twilight said with a dour nod. I only ascended recently... and I am not exactly looking forward to the next hundred years of watching those I love die. The mare let out a small sigh. Anyways... I should probably get going... got to get my report for Princess Celestia ready.

As the alicorn walked out of the room, Xavier and the rest of his team turned to face her. “What did you do?”

I… I may have touched a nerve.

She looked like a kicked Growlithe, Gabrielle said pointedly, raising an eyebrow at Daphne.

It’s not like I meant to do that, she shot back. It… it just happened.

“What did you say?” Xavier asked again, less harshness in his voice.

The subject of our immortality came up, she explained. 

“And that touched a nerve with her?” Xavier asked in confusion. “Why?”

Daphne took a few moments to think about it. She’s immortal as well, and in the same position we were all those years ago. I must have pushed it to the forefront of her mind.

“Wait... she’s an immortal too…?” Xavier trailed off and frowned. “That’s strange. I wonder if it’s coincidence... did she mention any others?”

The other alicorns, the ones with wings and horns, she explained. She’s not alone, which is something. But she did say that she has friends, and they’re not… not like her.

Xavier cringed, remembering what that had been like for him. “Oh.”

Do you think Arceus knew? Gabrielle asked. Were we sent here to help?

“I don’t think Arceus knew about this,” the man said, waving away the idea. Blaster snorted and Amp bleated his disagreement. “What do you mean Arceus probably did?”

Arceus said that my fires were nothing compared to the ones breathed into every star and planet. That Arceus created them. It would make sense that he - it would be monitoring everything, Daphne said.

Not to mention that he - it is by definition all knowing, Gabrielle added with a small frown. Of course, that returns us to our original question; why were we sent here of all places?

Xavier sighed. “I guess we can ask Arceus next time we run into… What is Arceus anyway, male or female?” he asked. All around him, his team fell into thought.





Luna looked up from her seat on a plush couch in her guest room as Twilight entered. Until then she had been re-reading the reports on their guests as well as penning her first thoughts of their encounter down in a journal of sorts.

“Ah, Twilight, you are back,” Luna said with a smile. “How did your time with our guests go?” To Luna’s surprise, Twilight did not seem happy.  “What is the matter? Did they not share anything?”

“No, no, they shared a lot,” the younger alicorn replied, holding up a notepad, each page filled with notes. 

“Then, and pardon the expression, why the long face?” Luna asked her, frowning slightly.

“They’re immortal. Like us. And while we were talking... one thing lead to another... and I was reminded of how very alone I - we are,” Twilight said despondently.

“Oh, Twilight, we are never alone,” Luna said kindly, getting up from her seat and walking over to wrap a wing over her. “Though those we hold dear may pass on, they will live forever as long as we remember them.”

“Auntie?” They both turned to see Cadance standing at the door. Her mane was a mess, her crown was nowhere to be seen, and there was a strange smell clinging to her.

“What is that smell?” Twilight asked, waving her hoof in front of her face.

“Cadance, have some decency and shower. You smell like a brothel,” Luna said, scowling at her niece. “And look like you stepped out of one too,” she added, noticing how the pink alicorn’s horn had a strange sheen to it.

“Well excuse me for wanting to spend some time with my husband,” the pink alicorn huffed. “After I thought I wouldn’t see him alive again, can you blame us for what we did?”

“Oh, ew!” the youngest alicorn exclaimed, backing away. “Cadance!”

Cadance gave Twilight a slightly flat look. “You’re old enough to accept these things Twilight,” she said before shaking her head. “And no, just because it’s your brother doesn’t mean that it’s any different from normal love.”

“Part of me knows that, but…” Twilight shook her head. “Can you please just take a shower, though?”

The pink alicorn rolled her eyes. “Fine. I’ll see if I can get Shiny to join me…” She laughed when Twilight made more noises of disgust. Despite herself, Luna couldn’t help but let out a single snicker at the look on Twilight’s face.

“Well, at least they shall be clean,” Luna stated. “Anyways; are you feeling better now, Twilight?”

“Define ‘better’,” the little alicorn replied bitterly.

“Not concerned about the impending deaths of everypony you know over the next fifty to seventy-five years,” Luna replied bluntly.

“A… a little,” she replied hesitantly. “It still hurts, but you’re right. As long as I remember them, that’s all that matters.”

“Good,” Luna said, unwrapping her wing from around Twilight and returning to her seat while she pulled out a blank piece of paper and an ink pot. “Now, onto business. What was your impression of our guests? No, I do not want a ‘report’ on it as my sister will undoubtedly request. Instead I want your honest and unfiltered opinion.”

Twilight took a few moments to compose her thoughts. “Well, they seem friendly enough. And they definitely view each other as siblings, with the exception of Xavier and Gabrielle. They’re lovers,” she explained. “They’re like a family. A strange family, but a family nonetheless.”

Luna nodded thoughtfully. “I see... Is there anything else you can think of?”

“The one known as Daphne seemed a little bit too casual about harming the one called Luca,” she said, sounding a little uneasy. “I’m not sure why, but she sent a fireball at him. If I could understand what the others were saying, then I might have a better idea.”

Luna frowned. “You said they are like a family, yes? Perhaps they are like a brother and sister, constantly at odds with one another,” she hazarded.

“Likely. I was never like that with my brother, but studies show that…” She trailed off under the withering glare Luna gave her. “Right. Sorry.”

“No matter,” Luna replied after a moment. “The more important question is, do you believe that she would throw a fireball at our little ponies?”

“Not unless they did something to hurt her or Xavier.” Twilight paused for a moment. “They’re all especially protective of him,” she added.

“That makes sense from what Cadance was able to get out of them,” Luna said, nodding her head slightly. “Overall what would you have us do with them if you had the final word?”

“Keep them under watch, but otherwise let them move about as freely as any other tourist,” she replied confidently.

Luna smiled slightly. “That was the conclusion that I had drawn as well,” she agreed. “Very well then, I shall write Tia and inform her what has transpired here today, as well as send her your undoubtedly detailed notes,” Luna added with a nod to Twilight. “Then... I suppose we'll see how our guests react to true ‘freedom’, as it were.”
	
	
	
> Chapter 7
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 7


Xavier leaned against the train carriage’s wall, watching the scenery flow by while Gabrielle did the same in between sips from a tea cup held in both hands to keep it stable. 

It’s like the Magnet Train, only a lot slower, Daphne mused.

“They don’t have maglev here yet,” Xavier pointed out. The man had opted to simply wear a pair of jeans and a simple grey shirt.

To be honest, I prefer it, Gabrielle said as she stared out the window. It allows you to really appreciate the scenery.

What, you mean the snow that gave way to grass? Daphne shot back snidely. Oh yes, so exciting.

Xavier just rolled his eyes, deciding to just let them argue. He knew that they would stop before they said anything really hurtful, and he just wanted to spend a few moments in quiet as he went over everything that had happened. Glancing at the rest of his team, he couldn’t help but smile at the sight of Luca curled up like a little Riolu on top of Blaster’s shell, breathing slowly as he slept. It was completely at odds with just how dangerous he could be.

His eyes traveled to the other part of the car where Amp and Razor were sitting across from each other in the midst of what appeared to be a silent staring contest. With a slow, calculated movement, Amp moved a hand forwards and nudged a bishop across the board.

Razor stared at the chessboard for a moment, taking in the position of the pieces. With a huff he nodded, acknowledging the Ampharos’s checkmate and his defeat. The bird then gave Amp an annoyed glance and tapped a wing on the board, signifying the wish for another round. It was a matter of honour.

As Amp rearranged the board, the compartment’s door opened. The tallest alicorn, Princess Luna, stepped in, and glanced around. Her gaze paused on the chess players, her expression momentarily shifting to one of confusion. Then the mare shook her head, choosing not to question it as she walked forwards. Hello, Xavier, she said calmly, communicating through telepathy. Can we talk?

The man glanced at Gabrielle. “Hey, Gabby?” he asked.

Yes? she asked, raising a hand at Daphne to make her stop arguing for a moment,

“She wants to talk to me,” he gestured at the pony, “do you think you could  - ”

But I thought you didn’t like doing that? she questioned.

“That’s not important,” the man said, waving away her concerns. 

Very well, if you insist.

Xavier let out a short scream as a part of his brain that shouldn’t be manipulated was. 

Are you okay!?

He turned to the princess, who was looking at him in shock. I’m okay. I’m okay. Just need a few moments to adjust… all right. You wanted to talk? he asked calmly, straightening himself up.

If I had known it would cause you this much pain, I wouldn’t have, Luna admitted. But yes, there are a few things that must be discussed.

Okay. Um, do you want to have a seat? he asked, realising that despite his age he had no idea how to act around actual royalty.

Thank you. Luna took a seat across the aisle, laying on the chair and taking up the entire thing. Now, as I said, there are a few things to discuss. The first is your guide.

The translator, right, he replied. What about it?

Several candidates have stepped forward, and my sister has decided it would be best to let you decide which will travel with you, Luna explained. Do you have any objections with that?

No, not at all. Though it would be more up to my team than me, Xavier admitted. After all, Daphne and Gabrielle will be the ones communicating with them the most.

True. Still, I will let my sister know that you will be choosing from the candidates. Next, your conduct.

What about my conduct? he asked, sounding offended.

Hopefully, it won’t be a problem, Luna said placatingly, but the nobility is stuck in their ways, and won’t listen to anyone who is not on an equal or higher standing. The only reason they listen to the guards is because they speak with our authority, she grumbled.

Xavier smirked. The fact that I’m a Grand Duke should sway them, right? he asked. 

Luna’s eyes widened. Yes, that… that should hold some power over them. Why did you not mention that you possessed such a title in the first place?

It’s hardly been relevant the past… seventy, eighty years, he admitted. You spend all that time travelling, the only thing that matters is being able to get enough food and finding a good campsite.

I can see how that would take a back seat to more immediate concerns, she conceded. Still, you should expect a lot of poorly-concealed contempt to come from our nobility... they hardly respect me, and that was only after I ‘suggested’ the seizure of their estates due to forgotten back taxes.

I think I’ll let Daphne do the talking, he smirked. I’d like to see them act all high and mighty when they’re on fire.

As much as I would like to see that, Luna admitted, I would have to advise against that course of action. The Guards are rather strict about enforcing the ‘no setting the nobles on fire unless they really deserve it’ rule. And even then, it’s only allowed in controlled bursts.

Xavier laughed. Oh, don’t worry, Daphne is pretty good at making people think they’re on fire. There won’t be a single mark on them.

Luna laughed as well, though it was more of a short chuckle then a full belly laugh. I like you, she said with a small smile. However, I suggest keeping such mental manipulation to a minimum. If they kick up too much of a stink, my sister and I will never hear the end of it.

Okay. Anything else?

As you are a visitor and undoubtedly have none of our money, I have decided to gift you with several thousand bits. That may seem like a lot, but there are seven of you, and you will be needing it for accommodations and food.

Xavier frowned. What if we want or need more money?

This may seem degrading, but, have you considered performing? Luna suggested. You and your team are so exotic that I am sure many would happily pay to see them.

I suppose a few exhibition fights wouldn’t be a bad thing, the man thought. Let them work out their stress.

I had meant simply as exhibits... but I can see your idea working, Luna said with a small frown. Though you would most likely have to obtain a permit of some kind. Knowing what my sister has done to our law books over the past thousand years I would not be surprised.

Yeah, if you want to let your Pokémon battle in a town or city, you usually need to go to a designated area or a stadium for that, he explained. 

Hmm, well I’m sure my sister or I can expedite your request for a permit at any rate, Luna stated before frowning. However, if circumstances force you to seek other employment, what would you do? You are an immortal being after all, and I doubt you will be content ‘performing’ forever.

I’ve been a research assistant, actor, personal trainer, region champion, cook, explorer… A lot of things, really. I’ll find something.

Luna raised an eyebrow slightly at the long list, but nodded. Very well, I simply wanted to make sure that you would not turn to crime or something of that nature, no offense, she replied. Being immortal does tend to skew one’s views of morality when it comes to something as simple as stealing for survival.

Luca would punch me if I ever did that, Xavier said with a chuckle. Takes that kind of thing seriously.

He does? Luna asked, glancing over at the sleeping Lucario. Does he follow a code of honour, like a knight?

Sort of. He’s not above gouging eyes in fights though. The man shuddered. That is always unpleasant.

I see. An admirable tactic if the fight is deserving of it, the mare replied with a nod. War is not made for the squeamish after all.

There hasn’t been a war in centuries. Pokémon battles are usually sanctioned events. There are rules and regulations. He’s nearly gotten us disqualified a few times because he’s been perfectly happy stooping to levels like that. He shot a glare at Luca’s sleeping form. The last thing any trainer wants is to see any member their team permanently injured.

Ah, Luna stated with a slight frown. I was unaware. Pray do not take my words as encouragement of such behavior upon a non-lethal field of combat. I do not endorse such things.

Neither does the International Battle Council. The fines are ridiculous.

Are you talking about that time Luca took out that Charizard with his spikes? Daphne asked, butting in to the conversation. How much were you fined again?

At least a million, Xavier replied.

That seems… exorbitant.

The fines covers medical bills, rehabilitation, legal fees, counselling if it’s needed… the man listed off, counting each item on a finger. They take it very seriously.

Just... what did he do to this ‘Charizard’? Luna inquired with a raised eyebrow. Also, what is a Charizard?

Gouged an eye and mangled a wing. As for what a Charizard is… Xavier reached into his pocket and pulled out a strange, red book. He opened it and slid his finger on the inside surface a few times. Suddenly, an image was projected from within of an orange dragon-like figure, the tip of its tail ablaze. That’s a Charizard.

Luna’s mouth opened in surprise. He gouged the eye of a dragon out? However did he manage such a feat?

Luca can move fast, Xavier said. And he refused to elaborate any further.

Hmm... I see, Luna stated with a small nod. Well, if nothing else, I know not to underestimate his speed. Not that I was before now.

There was a sudden screech and the sound of pieces of plastic hitting the floor. Razor had decided to flip the board after losing again. He looked ready to tear out Amp’s throat. Amp just smiled smugly at him.

“Here we go,” Xavier muttered, rolling his eyes. Excuse me, he said to Luna before standing up.

Is this a normal occurrence? the alicorn asked Daphne.

Between those two? Daphne asked as she watched Xavier stop Amp and Razor from fighting on the train. Yes. Razor fancies himself as some tactical genius, but he wouldn’t know strategy if it plucked him bare. Amp, however… Well, there’s a reason the rest of us refuse to play against him if the game lets him sit and think.

Well then, I wonder who will win a match between him and Twilight... She is rather good at chess as well, Luna said with a small chuckle.

The pair sat and watched as Xavier got between the pair and pushed them apart.





Celestia waited calmly at the castle’s platform for the train carrying her sister, her former student and the seven guests. Although she would never admit it, she was incredibly curious. The reports from Twilight, no matter how detailed, could not possibly relay as much as seeing them with one’s own eyes.

As the Crystal Empire’s steam engine pulled up, though, she found herself marvelling at it instead. It was unique, as the crystal ponies did not build or construct like other ponies. Instead, they willed crystal formations to grow into the shapes they needed or wanted. When asked for a train, the result was an incredibly aerodynamic engine that sparkled like a star in the waning light of the day. Admittedly, it had a predatory feel to it, but its elegance made it easy for her to ignore.

The door to the carriages opened as the engine hissed, steam billowing around the platform. As it dissipated, Celestia smiled. “Sister, it’s so good to see you again,” she said.

“Likewise, dear sister,” Luna replied, nuzzling the white alicorn’s neck. “It has been an interesting trip.”

“I can imagine. Ah, Twilight!” Celestia exclaimed when the third alicorn stepped off. “It’s so good to see you again.”

“It’s so good to see you too, Prin - ” The purple pony facehoofed. “Sorry. Force of habit.”

“It’s okay, Twilight,” Celestia said warmly. “I don’t expect you to break the habit of a lifetime in a few short months. If it helps, replace the word ‘Princess’ with something else you wouldn’t say. Like...”

“Fat,” Luna suggested. 

“Should I be concerned about how easily that came to mind?” Celestia asked her sister with a raised eyebrow.

“Not my fault you can’t help yourself, sister,” Luna taunted. “The dessert cart is for everypony, after all.”

Celestia snorted and rolled her eyes in amusement. “Where are our guests? I wish to greet them.” All of a sudden one of the carriages began to shake. Luna raised an eyebrow, while Twilight began to mutter to herself. 

Every window of the carriage then exploded outwards, showering the area in broken glass. Amp, you idiot! they heard in their heads, the words broadcasted freely for everyone to hear. We told you not to taunt him!

“And I thought Xavier had that under control,” Luna muttered.

Ow! Dammit Razor! We agreed on this a long time ago; no beaks!

Celestia raised an eyebrow. “Well, this should be an interesting day. I can already tell,” she declared.

“Oh, you have no idea,” Luna replied.


	
> Chapter 8
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 8


Xavier glared at Amp and Razor. The Ampharos was heavily bruised, and the Staraptor’s plumage was singed all over. “If this happens again, you’re in the Pokéballs for a week. Understood?” The pair nodded sullenly. “Good.”

And I was sure Luca would be first to really screw things up, Daphne said calmly. Luca just rolled his eyes.

I hope they don’t get too upset at us for that, Gabrielle added.

“Just why did you think kicking up a whirlwind in an enclosed space like that was a good idea?” Xavier asked loudly as Staraptor bowed his head in shame. “It’s a miracle no-one else got hurt!”

Amp chuckled. “And what are you laughing at? A charge beam?” Amp wilted. “What if you missed? What if it hit one of the ponies?”

I think they get it, Xavier, Gabrielle said calmly, putting a hand on his shoulder.

Xavier continued to glower at the pair for a long moment before he shook his head. “Like I said, don’t do it again,” he told them strictly. “We can’t take any risks here, this isn’t Kanto or Unova.”





“Well that was certainly…” Luna paused as she searched for the right word. “Unexpected.”

“I do hope that everything is alright,” Celestia stated with a small frown.

“They do appear to listen to him, so I feel confident that he can reign them in.” She watched passively as the man stopped yelling at the offenders. “Still, we should inform the staff to be ready for extra work.”

“Yes, I imagine that if they fight again it would be like having an untrained unicorn running around.”

Twilight Sparkle blinked as Celestia smiled. “If this is about that time your throne got set on fire, that wasn’t me! Spike sneezed,” she claimed.

“I’m not upset about that, it was years ago,” Celestia replied with a chuckle. “Besides, it gave me a legitimate reason to get a new one.”

“Only you could find the bright side to having your belongings set ablaze,” Luna muttered.

“Well, I’ve always believed in rising from the ashes,” Celestia told her, a small grin on her lips.

We are so very sorry, they heard in their heads. We didn’t expect them to do that and…

It is fine, Celestia informed the Delphox. The damage is not too severe, after all. And it wouldn’t the first time something of the like has happened.

Daphne relaxed. That is a relief. Still, we are very sorry for this.

And as I said, it is fine, Celestia insisted with a small mental shrug. Don’t trouble yourself with it. I simply ask that you keep any further ‘outbursts’ to a minimum and that you avoid injuring any of my little ponies. 

I wish I could say that we will, but with these idiots… Daphne turned to glare at Luca, Amp and Razor. I can make no such promises.

Males will be males, a fact that transcends species, as I’ve found throughout my many years, Celestia replied lightly. As I said, just avoid injuring anypony.

“Ah, Auntie Celestia, I was wondering where you…” Everyone in the room turned to see a white-coated unicorn stallion with a blonde mane and tail standing there. He’d trailed off in mid-sentence, his jaw going slack, his gaze lingering on Xavier and his team. “I-I was wondering where you were,” he repeated as he picked up his jaw. 

“Ah, Blueblood.” Celestia turned to look at her nephew. “I’m afraid now isn’t the best time.”

“And I’m sorry. But this is about the… the…” The stallion glanced nervously at the seven visitors.

The alabaster alicorn’s eyes went wide with understanding. “Oh. That. Of course.” She turned to the visitors. I am sorry, but this is a very important matter I must attend to. Tomorrow, however, I will clear time to assist you.

Gabrielle watched calmly as she and Blueblood disappeared with a flash. Teleportation?

Indeed, Luna said with a calm nod. Any unicorn with the right amount of magic and skill can do it.

It’s… well, not common, but common enough in our home, the Gardevoir explained. I just didn’t expect to find it here as well.

I see.

If you’d like, I could show you where you’ll be staying for the night, Twilight offered. 

Gabrielle turned to Xavier and nodded after a few moments. We would like that. Also, are we able to have food sent to us?

Twilight tilted her head. Usually guests dine with us.

Yes, but Xavier is unsure if Amp and Razor will behave themselves, and he wants to keep an eye on them. She turned to see the Staraptor was still glowering at the Ampharos. And I don’t blame him.

Well, if you’re sure that’s best, then I can arrange to have castle staff send some food. Twilight looked to Luna and asked her if that would be acceptable. Okay then. The kitchens will send somepony along. Gabrielle smiled at the use of ‘somepony’. Are there any dietary requirements that we need to meet?

Gabrielle blinked, taking a moment to understand what she meant. Oh. No, Amp and myself are vegetarian. Luca, Razor, Daphne, Blaster and Xavier will require some meat. Is that going to be a problem? she asked, noticing the mare’s eyes go wide.

No, I just… I just should have realised that they would need meat, she said, chuckling a little. The cooks have some fish, will that do?

They’ve been living on preserved meat with the texture of plastic the past two weeks. They won’t care.

Oh, Daphne said suddenly, catching the pair off guard. Can you bring me some kindling? she asked.

Kindling? Luna asked, having listened to their conversation. I’m sorry, but we can’t have you setting fire to anything.

I don’t need kindling to set fire to anything, she replied, rolling her eyes. No, it’s a quirk of my biology, something that evolution didn’t alter that it should have.

“’Evolution’?” the midnight alicorn asked Twilight.

“It’s the term they use to define the changes their bodies go through when they hit certain points of physical maturity,” she explained. So why do you need kindling?

To eat. Luna and Twilight stared for a moment. More accurately, to fuel my internal fire.

I still say that it’s a placebo effect, Gabrielle thought quietly.

I feel it helps, the Delphox shrugged, and it’s only sticks. Not like I eat diamonds or pearls.

Well, if that’s the case then I’m sure we can provide you with kindling, Luna declared. ’Tis a simple request, really.

Would it be okay if I came with you? Twilight asked. I don’t mean to impose, but I’m interested in observing how you all act around one another. Call it... research, maybe?

Daphne and Gabrielle turned to Xavier, who shrugged. We have no problems with it, the Gardevoir stated. 

Great! And I still have so many questions to ask! Well, just a few, she amended, noticing the looks on their faces.





“So now that the important matters have been discussed…” Princess Celestia smiled warmly at her nephew from behind her desk. “Is there anything else?”

“Apart from my requests to have the Canterlot gossip mill muzzled?” the stallion asked with a smile. 

“But then who would we be forced to listen to all day in Court?” Celestia asked him with an amused smile of her own. “Surly, barking is better than silence my dear nephew.”

“When that barking is insistent on painting me as the spawn of Tirek… I know, I know, Freedom of Speech,” he muttered, waving a hoof, “but it wouldn’t hurt to limit what they can say, surely?”

“I still say that you should do more to improve your reputation,” Celestia insisted. “Take it from a several thousand year old politician nephew, the more charity events you attend, the more cake you are rewarded with.”

“A little hard when the mares I run into see me as nothing but a stepladder into the nobility,” he growled. “I don’t care if she was a national hero, that mare deserved it. And it’s a little hard to be seen as likeable when you have me running around with… them,” he spat. 

Celestia sighed and walked over to her nephew, draping a wing over him. “I know, and I’m sorry. But I need somepony I can trust, and I know that your feelings will never be swayed.” 

“I... I know,” Blueblood replied with a shake of his head. “I know that it’s the right thing to do, Auntie but... damn me if it isn’t unpleasant. They behave like animals.”

“I know, dear. But soon we’ll remove them.”

The stallion sighed. “That day cannot come soon enough.”

The pair stayed like that for a while, finding comfort in each other’s embrace. Celestia rarely found time to spend with family outside of formal events, and Blueblood was too proud to seek her out under normal circumstances, or to show affection in public. “Actually…” The unicorn looked up. “Could you tell me what book has the instructions to learn telepathy?”

“Oh?” Celestia asked, smiling down at him. 

“W-well, it wouldn’t hurt, surely?” he asked her. “After all, as a member of the Royal Family I do have a duty to treat our ambassadors fairly, no? And speaking their ‘language’ as it were would help with that.”

“And you’re sure you don’t have an ulterior motive?” she asked with a cheeky smile. 

“My dear Auntie; I have no idea what you’re insinuating,” Blueblood stated while turning his face away from her. “I simply wish to fulfil my royal duty.”

Celestia’s smile turned sly and she poked him in the side with a wing. “Very well nephew, say what you like. Of course, in the future I would advise against staring; most females don’t take it very well,” she told him with a gentle chuckle.

“I meant nothing by it!” he shouted defensively. “They just look so… so… different,” he said sweetly.

“Of course,” Celestia said, her smile still sly. “Still, one with observant eyes could not help but notice just where it was your gaze lingered.”

“Please stop talking about this, Auntie,” the prince pleaded. 

“I’m sorry, Bluey, I don’t mean to tease too much,” the princess said apologetically. “I just rarely get the chance to be myself.”

“I… I know. I’m sorry, I shouldn’t be so defensive. It’s just...” he trailed off, shaking his head. “Anyways; I’d like that book.”

“Of course. Just go to the library and ask for the books on telepathy. I’m not sure which ones are still in circulation, but the librarian will help you,” she told him with a small smile. “If all else fails, I’m sure Twilight or I can teach you easily enough,” she added.

“I’m not sure the newest member of our family will be happy to help me,” Blueblood muttered. “Not like she would’ve before that night. Still, I will ask if I must. Thank you, Auntie.”

“Of course nephew,” Celestia said, bending down to give him a light nuzzle. “I have all of eternity, so never worry that I don’t have time to listen to your problems should you need my help.”





So… Twilight put down her plate and looked at Daphne.

Yes? she asked, crunching on some of the kindling she had asked for.

You need to eat meat, right? The Delphox nodded. And your entire world is populated by Pokémon?

Yes…? Daphne replied, not sure what she was getting at.

So to eat meat you need to… to eat another intelligent creature? Twilight asked, sounding disgusted by the notion.

I’m not sure I understand why that’s such a problem. It’s just the way things are, Daphne explained.

But if they’re intelligent as well then you’re denying an entirely new perspective of the world from ever being heard! Twilight protested. Not to mention that in Equestria it would be considered murder and cannibalism, but even if we don’t go into the morality of it, it’s wasteful!

Daphne took that in before chuckling. Things really are different here. It’s hardly easy to attack and kill another Pokémon, she said. if you’re lucky, you walk away injured. More often than not, you end up bleeding out after a Bibarel gets lucky and manages to disembowel you.

Still... the idea is disturbing, Twilight said, looking a bit green. It reminds me of what the griffins used to do... or at least a part of it.

And we don’t consider it murder. If anything, it ensures that only the strongest members of a species survive and pass on their traits. Not to mention that by eating them it ensures that nothing goes to waste. We’re very environmentally friendly that way, the Delphox explained with a slight smile, slightly enjoying returning a bit of suffering to the mare. After all, if no-one ate them, Bidoofs and Zubats would overrun the world and then where would we be?

Constantly stepping in potholes and drained of our blood, Gabrielle answered, a soft smile touching her face. I imagine that the casualty rate would be astounding.

But… you’re still killing them, Twilight mumbled.

Do you hold it against the other races here that need to eat meat? They are only doing what they must to survive, Daphne explained. We’re not all that different. If anything, all Pokémon being capable of higher thought means that we understand what it means, how much it can affect others. We do not hunt for sport, and we only kill when necessary.

It still feels wrong.

Then I’m afraid we simply have different definitions for right and wrong, Daphne replied as she chewed on her fish. And personally, I feel as if it isn’t your place to judge us considering that you are not of our world. She looked up from her fish to give Twilight a hard look before she blew on the fish, the heat crisping it a bit more, before she continued eating.

To hold us by your standards is foolish. Princess Cadenza learned that, Gabrielle pointed out.

I... I’m sorry, Twilight said, looking down. This is just... new to me. I don’t mean to seem close minded it’s just... different.

I doubt that this will be last of the differences between us, Gabrielle said calmly. As long as we explain things like this, though, I can’t see it being that much of a problem, she added with a gentle smile.

I suppose as long as you don’t hurt anypony, it doesn’t really matter, the alicorn said, giving them a smile of her own.
	
> Chapter 9
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 9


Do you have anything appropriate to wear? Gabrielle asked.

“Gimme a second…” Xavier rummaged through his bag, which had swallowed up his arm to the shoulder. “I know it’s in here somewhere…”

Like it won’t be covered in mold and falling apart, Daphne scoffed as she brushed at her coat. You’ll have to go out there in jeans and a singlet, she taunted.

“Shut up, Daph.”

As the man continued to dig through his belongings in the hopes of finding what he was looking for, there was a knock at the door. Gabrielle opened it with a flick of her wrist, revealing Twilight Sparkle waiting impatiently. “We don’t have time, we don’t have time…” she was muttering to herself.

Are you okay? Gabrielle asked. 

What? Oh, sorry, just worried. You just need to pick from the three candidates before we introduce you to the press and public. The alicorn took a few deep breaths to compose herself. It’s gonna be a nightmare.

Oh, it won’t be that bad. We have some experience with this kind of thing, Daphne replied confidently. When Diantha handed the title of Region Champion to Xavier, that was a big event.

What did you expect? Gabrielle asked. That was a movie star and a regional hero in the same place, of course it was going to draw the attention of every single media organisation.

Region Champion? Twilight asked. Is that significant?

It holds more power than any title given by the nobility, Daphne explained. It’s a title only given to those who have proven that the bond between them and their team is as strong as it can possibly be.

There’s more to it than that, Gabrielle interjected. And aren’t we running on a schedule?

Twilight’s eyes went wide. Oh no! We need to hurry!

Calm down, Gabrielle said soothingly, in the same tone she would have used to placate a scared Houndour. Panicking gets us nowhere. It causes mistakes, and it takes even longer to make things right afterwards.

I know, I know, it’s just… It’s a really big thing today. If this goes wrong, then there’s no telling just how badly the media will exaggerate things.

Then I’ll make sure Xavier tells everyone to behave themselves, Daphne relayed before turning to Xavier.

“Yeah?” he asked, sucking on his finger. 

Did you cut yourself on something in the bag? When he nodded, she could only roll her eyes. Incredible. Anyway, we need the three idiots to behave themselves today. Can you make sure they don’t do anything too damaging?

“Daphne, don’t insult them. Just because they don’t make the best decisions - ”

Xavier, Amp and Razor thought it’d be a good idea to start a fight in a train car. I’ll insult those two however much I like. Amp and Razor shot her a pair of matching glares, which she ignored. And Luca’s just dumb muscle. She let out a pained yip when a wire brush collided with the back of her head.

“Luca, don’t throw things,” Xavier said dismissively.

Is your brain rusting? Daphne growled, turning to face the smirking Lucario. The brush she was holding exploded into ash. Great, she thought after looking at it for a few moments. And this was my best brush too.

Daphne, get over here before you set something else on fire, Gabrielle said wearily. Luca, can you come as well?

Why is he coming along? Twilight asked as the Lucario stepped closer.

Luca is able to sense someone’s intentions. Typically, a Lucario can only identify between good and bad, but experience has allowed him to refine those skills. Now, well… Just don’t try to hide anything near him, the Gardevoir said with a small smile.

So… you want him to come along because you don’t want to be deceived? 

Daphne and I couldn’t help but overhear what Luna was talking to Xavier about yesterday. And we realised that, inevitably, someone would try and exploit us.

So, we bring along tall, dark and scary to chase off anyone who tries to, the Delphox said with a smile.

Master, can you manage on your own? Gabrielle asked as Luca stepped up and nodded calmly at the princess.

“Found it!” Xavier yelled triumphantly as he pulled out a suit jacket. “Wow,” he added when he saw how wrinkled it was. “Gonna need an iron or something…”





The three Pokémon followed calmly behind to a nearby room. Don’t try and scare them too much. You do look quite…

Oh don’t worry. We’ll do our best to be as nonthreatening as possible, Gabrielle said serenely.

Speak for yourself, Daphne snorted. I’m going to do my best to make my displeasure with them known. Luca nodded in agreement.

Twilight gulped nervously, realising she should have passed this duty to someone better qualified. That there were only two ponies that fit that criteria, and that they were both busy, didn’t concern her. Perhaps I should go first, let them know what to expect.

She didn’t tell them anything? Daphne asked as the pony disappeared into the room.

More like she’s concerned about your behaviour, Gabrielle replied. Just… try to be polite? Please?

I’ll try, the Delphox said. Luca, try not to… She trailed off as she stared at the Lucario in disbelief. He let out a questioning growl as he continued to scrub at his teeth with his wire brush.

Luca, please try to act civilised, the Gardevoir said as put her hand to her face to hide her smile. 

They’re ready! the three heard in their heads.

What are we waiting for? Daphne asked as she pushed the door open.

The three were greeted by Twilight standing awkwardly at the side of the room, while in the centre were three unicorns. The stallion closest to Twilight had an orange coat and a dull red mane. He was immaculately groomed, giving off a sense of class and wealth. The second pony was a light-pink mare, with a cream-coloured mane done up in a bun. The third was another stallion, with a silver coat and a closely cropped teal mane and tail, standing straight and tall, his face not betraying any emotion.

It’s a pleasure to meet you, the first unicorn said, stepping closer. Daphne noted with disgust that even his mental voice sounded sleazy. I am - 

Leaving, Gabrielle said, interrupting him.

I’m sorry? he asked, wearing a smug smile. I must have misheard.

Oh, you didn’t. We know you’re only here because you think helping us will get you rewarded, that the experience can be used to gain some political clout. Daphne stepped forward, drawing her wand out. Now, will you leave, or we will have to make you leave? she asked.

How dare you talk to me like that? the stallion replied, his kindness evaporating like water near a Magcargo. You don’t even know who I am!

An idiot who’s going to be leaving with three broken legs and no hair, Daphne countered as the tip of her twig ignited. Behind her Luca began to crack his knuckles threateningly. Would you like to continue?

I’ll have you thrown out of Canterlot for this!

And we’ll just throw you out of a tower, the Delphox replied boredly. Besides, you have no idea who we are either.

Like it matters! That was all he could get out before his tail ignited. He turned and stared at it for a moment before screaming at the top of his lungs. As he disappeared out the door, the fire vanished.

Too easy, Daphne said smugly as Luca collapsed from laughing too hard. Illusions never get old.

Twilight let out an aggravated sigh. I want to be angry, she said, but you just did something that I’ve been wanting to do for months. The nobility need to be taught their place.

And as foreign ambassadors, we have diplomatic immunity, the Delphox added. We do have diplomatic immunity, right?

To a certain extent, Twilight answered with a small frown. So long as you don’t actually injure anypony then you should be fine.

Good, Gabrielle said. Also, while you two were talking, the female ran off.

What!? Twilight turned to see that only the other stallion remained. And she seemed so qualified too!

Yes, she was, the sole remaining stallion said with a curt nod. However, I think she may have been expecting something a bit... different from our guests here.

Could you introduce us? Gabrielle asked. 

Oh right. Gabrielle, Daphne, Luca, this is Private Silver Spear, a member of Princess Luna’s personal guard.

It’s an honour to meet you, the stallion said, bowing.

He’s certainly polite, Daphne said, only broadcasting the thought to Luca and Gabrielle.

Yes, but does he have an ulterior motive? Gabrielle asked.

Luca’s eyes briefly glowed before he shook his head. He could detect nothing negative behind the stallion’s intentions. 

Good enough for me, Daphne nodded. 

But will it be good enough for Xavier? Gabrielle questioned.

Then he’ll leave it to us to take care of it. Daphne shrugged. You know, what he usually does. 





“I’m perfectly capable of doing that myself…” Xavier pouted. Amp just patted him on the head soothingly. “Why does she think she can just walk in and push me aside like that?”

The unicorn rolled her eyes as she started ironing his pants. The way she saw things, if they talked in a language that she couldn’t understand, it wasn’t her concern. All she knew was that she had been instructed to make sure that the guests of honour were suitably prepared. And seeing that wrinkled mess of a fine suit… It made her shudder.

And it was such a fine piece of work, too! She could tell it was made using incredibly fine machinery, and a silk so durable it was like steel. The jacket and pants were jet black, with a crisp white shirt that had somehow not gotten stained at all despite what had clearly been years of neglect.

She ignored the opening of the door as she pressed the hot metal to the cloth. Really? Not even a day and you’re making the help do your laundry? Daphne asked flatly.

“Hey, she walked in, took them from me and pulled an ironing board from somewhere,” Xavier replied defensively. “I tried to take them back, but you remember the last time I snuck up on someone who had an iron…”

Yes, that was pretty funny, the Delphox said, trying to hold back her laughter. The trainer just rolled his eyes. Anyway, we have our guide.

“We do?”

That was why we left the room, she replied, rolling her eyes. He seems nice, and Luca didn’t have any problems with him.

“That’s a good sign.”

Also, we might have some trouble with some of the nobility later. Nothing we can’t handle, she quickly reassured Xavier, I’m just letting you know it’s something we should be wary of.

Xavier let out a small sigh and pinched his nose. “Who did you hurt?”

Oh, just some puffed-up Pijako, and I didn’t hurt him, Daphne said airily. If he tries anything, though, can we send Razor after him? Xavier facepalmed. I’m guessing that’s a no…

Do not worry too much, Xavier, Gabrielle added as she walked over and put a soft hand on the man’s shoulder. Like she said, he is physically unharmed. It was only a minor illusion. He was not actually on fire.

Xavier let out an aggravated sigh. “I don’t know how I put up with you guys sometimes.”

Well, I know how you put up with her, we all do, Daphne said while pointing at Gabrielle with her wand. As for me, I believe I am simply too wonderful not to be at the very least tolerated.

Now I know who that idiot pony reminded me of, Gabrielle said snidely.

Xavier sighed once more, the things his family did... 

Without a word he stepped between them before finally saying. “Girls, enough. Just tell me what happened.” He paused for a second before adding. “I want to know beforehand if I should actually get ready for a fight.”





“Are you sure about this, your highness?”

“Absolutely, Silver. They seem to like you, after all.”

“I mean the allowance. It seems a bit much just for what I’ll be doing,” he said.

“Not at all. You’ll be showing seven guests around the country. Maybe even beyond, if that’s what they ask,” Twilight Sparkle explained. 

“But still, five hundred bits a week?” the stallion questioned. “That seems excessive.”

“Honestly? It’s… it’s hazard pay,” the princess said cautiously. “Given the powers they possess, there is a very high chance of you getting injured at one point or another.”

“Oh.” Silver Spear wasn’t sure how to take that. “Well… Good thing we learned how to treat minor injuries in Basic?”

“They are very careful,” Twilight said, trying to reassure him, “so it shouldn’t be that great a concern. Still, you should stay away if they seem to be getting angry.”

Excuse me? They both turned to see Daphne poke her head out of the door. 

Oh. Yes? Silver Spear asked after a few moments when Twilight nudged him

Some of us are planning on making a… dramatic entrance, she explained. But for that we need to know if the event is being held outdoors. We don’t want to break a window or burn the carpet.

Burn the carpet? Twilight asked. Just what are you planning?

Now that would ruin the surprise, the Delphox said with a smile.

Twilight gave the fox a flat stare. Well, no, it will be outside. But I’m not sure I can allow this.

Oh, it’s not like we’re aiming to actually hurt anyone. We just want to give them something to remember.

Forgive me for saying this, but won’t aliens saying that they come in peace be enough? Silver asked. This isn’t exactly an everyday occurrence, after all.

I suppose, Daphne replied thoughtfully. Still, you must admit the importance of a memorable first impression.

Memorable, yes, Twilight replied, remembering the first time she met her friends. But ‘memorable’ and ‘good’ aren’t exactly synonymous, she pointed out, recalling how Pinkie Pie had left the impression of being completely insane. It’s not going to come across as negative, is it?

Intimidating, yes, the Delphox admitted, but that describes a lot about most of us anyway. 

I’m sorry, but unless I can get a guarantee that nopony there will be harmed - 

If that’s what you want, Daphne said, pulling out her wand and staring into the flame that ignited, then you only had to ask. The ponies stared at her as she gazed into the fire, seemingly entranced. And? she asked it. I see.

“What is she doing?” Silver asked quietly.

“I have no idea,” Twilight answered in a similarly hushed tone.

The Delphox nodded as she stowed the wand back up her sleeve. No-one will get injured in any way today from what I or the others plan on doing, she declared confidently.

How do you know that?

My kind has prophetic abilities, she calmly explained. It takes concentration, and most can’t see beyond the next three hours without things becoming blurry. Xavier said something about probability... she trailed off thoughtfully. Anyway, what matters is that it will be perfectly safe.

“Daphne!” they heard Xavier yell. “Could you give us a hand!?”

Oh great, she muttered, her shoulders slumping a little. Coming! she broadcasted.

Twilight and Silver decided to follow her into the room, the latter more reluctant to do so. The stallion’s trepidation was justified when he saw a large bird and a yellow creature completely unlike anything he had ever seen glaring at each other, a monstrously large tortoise holding them apart. The yellow one seemed to be crackling with electricity like an overcharged storm cloud.

“See what I meant about it being ‘hazard pay’?” Twilight asked Silver at a whisper.

Let me guess, you want me to get those two to stop trying to murder each other? Daphne asked the now-suited Xavier. The well-dressed man nodded. And why can’t Gabby do this?

You looked like you needed to set something on fire.

Well, it would be nice, the Delphox admitted. Give me a moment.

She strode over to Amp and Razor. All right, you knuckle-heads. I’m giving you three seconds to leave each other alone before I… well, I haven’t decided yet, but it won’t be pleasant.

The Ampharos and Staraptor turned to look at her. After a few moments their eyes locked and they nodded.

This can’t be good, Gabrielle thought.

Okay, Daphne said cautiously, backing away slowly. Why are you looking at me like that? she asked as they turned to her with smirks. What are you doing? she asked as they stepped towards her.

What transpired next was too fast for Twilight to see, but Silver’s training allowed him to watch it all happen in all its horrible glory. “Should we help?” he asked quietly.

Get off me! Stop! The Delphox’s telepathic voice was clear, but from her mouth came louds yips of laughter as she mercilessly tickled by the pair. You’ll mess up my coat!

Xavier just rolled his eyes as they continued their relentless assault. He gave them another minute to have their way with Daphne before calling to them to stop. As they clambered off of her convulsing body, the Delphox did her best to get back on her feet. Oh great I’ve drooled all over myself, she said bitterly as she inspected the damage done to her coat. 

And because you destroyed your brush before… Daphne turned slowly to face Gabrielle, her expression turning murderous as the words sunk in.

Amp, Razor? she asked sweetly. Do me a favour and hold still so I CAN MURDER YOU BOTH! she screamed, spitting fire at them.

As Gabrielle held the Dephox back from committing bloody murder, Silver was left to stare. “What have I gotten myself in to?”





Blueblood stood amongst the rest of the crowd of nobles, waiting for his aunt to finish talking. Not that he didn’t like her speeches, but he just wanted to get this over with. The group he had to associate with wanted news, and the sooner he relayed it to them the sooner he could return home and have a much needed drink.

The presence of every major, and almost every minor, media outlet didn’t help his nerves. Equestria Daily, Everfree Radio, The New Yoke Times, The Canterlot Tribune, The Fillydelphia Inquirer… And those were just the ones he could recognise off the top of his head. He had no idea just how many journalists and photographers there were, except that they seemed to outnumber the members of the nobility. 

He was so lost in thought that he barely noticed that his aunt had finished talking. He refocused his attention as she announced the name of the leader of the group of visitors. He was briefly surprised when he heard his title, ‘Grand Duke’. He wasn’t completely sure just how lofty that position was where the aliens were from, but he was sure it was close to his own.

He couldn’t help but stare when the Grand Duke stepped out onto the stage. It wasn’t that he was wearing a finely-tailored suit, but a matter of what walked out with him. The slender green-and-white one, he had seen earlier, but the large tortoise-like being seemed different. He was sure that it had two cannons in its shell, not a giant one that made it seem more like a siege weapon than a creature. 

And he was sure that the yellow one did not have pure, white, luxurious hair that any mare would be jealous of. The presence of crimson orbs that seemed to crackle with power only served to make him wonder just what powers these creatures possessed apart from telepathy and amazing hair.

He and the rest of the crowd gasped when a space to the walking tank’s left ignited, a vortex of fire rising up into the air. It dissipated just as quickly as it appeared, but now the fox-like being he had seen before was standing there, not caring about the flames licking the hems of her robe. As he watched, his practiced eyes caught sight of the little details about her. Despite the raging inferno that had recently engulfed her, her eyes calmly gazed out at the crowd, as if giving out a silent challenge. 

There was something in that challenge that Blueblood could respect. For the most part those who he’d been on the receiving end of that look from before had been one of the many pompous overblown nobles that plagued Canterlot. This one however... there was something almost awe-inspiring and worthy of respect to be found in those blazing eyes.

Cries of panic from several ponies in the crowd drew his eyes away from the marvelous vixen and Blueblood looked up to see something falling towards them all with incredible speed. Whatever it was, it was far too high up to make out any features. As one, the guests on the stage looked up, but they weren’t panicked. He was sure that he could see them smile. 

As the figure got closer and closer, he realised it was the other Diamond Dog-like member of their group, the one with blue and black fur. He watched as it fell towards the earth, arms spread as though the gesture would slow it down. As it came closer, it flipped over so that its feet were pointing at the ground. As it landed, though, it performed an act of impossible grace, coming to a dead stop from terminal velocity in a fraction of a second, balancing on one of its toes with its arms crossed passively.

Blueblood noticed that this one also looked different from when he had first seen it. Before, its coat of fur had been smooth, but the tan fur on its chest had grown out to an almost ridiculous length. Its tail was the same, and the prince was sure that it had been a different colour earlier. Most notable, though, were its paws. Now they were a vivid crimson, and the uneven pattern gave off the idea that they had been stained that way. Where the fox had grace and poise, this one had savagery and strength.

When it opened an eye to look at them, though, that was when the prince was shocked. He was sure that, for a moment, it had glowed. But that wasn’t what had shocked him. It was the feeling of being judged, of someone, something scrutinising everything he had ever done, that was responsible. And it scared him.

He wasn’t in any state to be shocked again when a monstrously large bird, easily capable of picking up a pony, swooped down and perched on the shoulders of the Grand Duke.





An impressive display, Celestia broadcasted to them.

Thank you, Daphne replied, smiling a little as the cameras flashed before them. If I may ask, what next?

The press will have a few questions, then I shall take you aside and we can discuss things in private. 

Xavier nodded as Razor hopped down. “How many do you think have questions for us?”

Gabrielle turned to face him. Take a guess, she told him flatly.
	
> Chapter 10
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 10


Xavier and his team weren’t sure how long the press conference had gone on for. While most of them were able to remain calm and still, Luca and Amp instead gave the audience a small show as they fought off boredom. The Ampharos had been juggling balls of concentrated electricity, while the Lucario had decided to go through a number of meditative exercises. 

For a while those exercises garnered more attention from the photographers, and Luca was happy to give them a show. The movements quickly became more exaggerated and ridiculous, until he was performing spinning kicks, backflips and pirouettes. Xavier only rolled his eyes as the Lucario didn’t even break a sweat after twenty minutes. 

“Alright, Luca, that’s enough,” Xavier eventually said. “I’m sure you’ve given them enough material for an entire magazine.”

Show-off, Daphne thought quietly. 

Don’t be too harsh, you know he’s always had poor self-control, Gabrielle replied calmly.

Luca ignored the barbs and settled back into a relaxed stance. He resumed his vigil, though, knowing that even in a place like this there would be someone stupid enough to try something. Amp just shoved the electrical orbs back into his wooly tail. 

“Are we done here?” Xavier asked Gabrielle, having grown tired of standing around ‘looking pretty’.

I hope so. All these cameras are making me nervous. The Gardevoir didn’t show it, though, maintaining her facade of serenity. At least Luca is drawing their attention. She paused when Luca growled something at her. Oh. Well, thank you for being so considerate.

Luca being considerate? Daphne asked. Great, how long until Dialga shows up and restarts the universe?

“Cut it out, Daph, it’s not funny when you do it constantly,” the trainer said tiredly. “It’s been a long day and I’d kind of like everyone to just get along, okay?”

We haven’t even had lunch yet, the Delphox pointed out. But I’ll stop, if it’s really that annoying.

Before them, they saw Princess Celestia snort. They wouldn’t have seen it if they weren’t so close to the alicorn. I can’t say I’m surprised one of them asked that…

I’d say that, given your smile, it wasn’t a bad question, Daphne replied.

Bad, no. But it was silly. Celestia sighed. Are you here as the herald of an alien invasion?

Daphne had to quickly put a paw to her mouth to stop her laughter. Someone actually thinks that!? her mental voice cackled, barely keeping the thought to the group on stage.

I do love my subjects dearly, but sometimes… The alicorn let out a small, tired smile.

How should we handle this? Gabrielle asked.

I… I really can’t think of a good way. We deny it, we’ll get accused of hiding things. And we definitely can’t say yes, the Delphox thought carefully.

We might not have to, the Gardevoir pointed out, nodding at the crowd. A fight had started between some of the reporters, among them the one that had asked about the alien invasion. It would seem that we have a few supporters. They watched as a number of guardponies pulled the brawl apart and cuffed all members involved before dragging them away.

Celestia let out a sad sigh. I guess that would be a good place to end it.





“So,” the auburn stallion said, “you’ve returned.”

“A fight broke out amongst the reporters,” Blueblood explained. “Princess Celestia was quick to end it after that.”

“I can imagine. So, what can you tell us?”

“Nothing the newspapers can’t tell you tomorrow,” Blueblood replied neutrally.

“You were able to get close to them,” the other stallion snarled. “Now tell me what those freaks can do.”

Blueblood held back a sigh. “Seems like parlour tricks, for the most part. I would be careful around the giant bird and the Diamond Dog-lookalike, though,” he added. “Those two are definitely dangerous.”

There was a snort. “I can’t imagine them being too difficult to contain.” He walked over to a cabinet and pulled out a bottle. “Whiskey?” he asked.

“No thank you,” Blueblood said politely, knowing very well what the servants did to the bottles. “I have business to attend to after this, and I would rather do so sober,” he lied effortlessly.

“Very well,” the stallion said, pouring some of the alcohol into a cup and taking a sip. It took all of Blueblood’s considerable willpower to not cringe. “Anyway, we’ll start drafting plans to deal with these… Pokémon.”

“Of course,” Blueblood said. “Is that all?” he asked.

“Yes, yes, leave,” the stallion said dismissively.

“Gladly,” he muttered as he left the room, feeling dirty and unclean. 





“What a day...” Xavier said as he leaned against the couch cushion. “Feels like that whole thing lasted weeks.”

We haven't even had lunch yet, Daphne pointed out. Where will it be, anyway? she asked.

I believe we will be eating in the ‘Grand Dining Room’ somewhere within the castle, Gabrielle replied as she leaned her head gently against Xavier’s neck. Though I for one could simply skip the entire overblown endeavour and eat here instead.

“We still need to talk to Celestia about a few things,” Xavier pointed out.

That’s true, Gabrielle said. But still... I am just not in the mood.

Would you like the rest of us to go without you so you and Xavier can -

Yes, the Gardevoir answered bluntly. I would like that a lot.

For his part Xavier looked a bit conflicted. On the one hand, here they were, finally somewhere civilised where they could get a modicum of privacy to enjoy themselves and spend time together. On the other... they still didn’t know a great deal about said civilization and the future was uncertain. The man sighed and was about to tell Gabrielle that they’d have to wait for later until he looked down and saw the all but pleading look in her eyes... he’d always had trouble saying no to her.

Oh for the love of… Daphne facepalmed. The rest of team reacted similarly. Xavier, no. Just keep control of yourself for five minutes so we can do this lunch. 

“Well... it’s not like I can actually do any of the talking,” Xavier said with a small thoughtful frown. “And I trust you to represent us well, Daphne. You are after all the smartest one on the team... but I guess if you need Gabby and I there for moral support...”

Blaster? The Blastoise, still in his Mega-Evolved form, looked at her. Hit them both.

Both Xavier and Gabrielle screamed loudly as icy cold water soaked them to the bone. “What was that for!?” the man yelled as Luca and Amp started laughing at their misfortune.

You needed a cold shower, I needed to improvise, she stated calmly. Now get a towel and stop making excuses. We’re going to that lunch, even if Amp has to paralyse you.

That was very inconsiderate and childish of you, Gabrielle stated with a peeved expression as the man stomped unhappily to the bathroom. 

Says the one acting like a Purugly in heat, Daphne shot back snidely. 

Gabrielle’s eyes narrowed as Luca let out an ‘oooooooh’. I am simply trying to snatch a moment alone with the one I love... besides, I rate at least a Mightyena, she replied as she rose from her seat, using her power to send the water droplets onto Daphne.

The Delphox began to steam lightly. Doesn’t change the fact that you are not thinking with your head.

“Girls!” they heard Xavier yell from the bathroom. “Stop fighting!”

We’re not fighting, we’re just having a discussion, Daphne broadcasted.

“Well, whatever it is, stop. Also, Daph, could you blow me dry?” he asked, poking his head out. “This suit isn’t exactly something I can dry with a towel.”

Stand still, Daphne commanded. You remember how this works, don’t you?

“Yeah,” Xavier said nervously. “I know it doesn’t hurt, but - ”

Keep your mouth shut, you don’t want that to happen again, do you? 

Xavier shuddered as he remembered... there wasn’t enough water in the world to wet that kind of dryness. It had taken weeks before he could taste food again, and having to resort to telepathy for a month had given him brain damage, he was sure. “Get it over with.”

There was a brief burst of intense heat as a vortex of flames enveloped the man. Half a second later, the fire disappeared, leaving him standing in a crispy-dry suit. Razor was quick to flap his wings to help cool him off. There, now you are ready, Daphne said before quickly adding, Now control yourselves and make sure that we need not repeat this exercise.

Yes, mother, Gabrielle shot back snidely.

If I were your mother... Daphne trailed off, allowing Gabrielle to finish the thought within her own mind. At any rate let’s simply get this over with, shall we? That way the two of you can return to your ‘coupling’ while the rest of us entertain ourselves with less ‘base’ desires.

Like you aren’t prone to giving in to temptations like that yourself, the Gardevoir replied.

“Girls, seriously,” Xavier said, raising his voice so he could be heard as Luca facepalmed at the pair’s bickering. “Aren’t you two supposed to be better than this?”





Celestia eyed her guests with a slight amused smile. Her keen and experienced eyes could make out the distinct signs of recently dried hair as well as slight creases around the collar of Xavier's suit that spoke of a quick dry. Not only that, but she noticed the same signs upon Gabrielle’s ‘attire’ as well. Her suspicions of what may have arisen within the short amount of time that Xavier and his group were in the suites was only further evidenced by the occasional annoyed looks that the Gardevoir and the Delphox had been exchanging when they thought no-one was looking.

I must say, thank you for jumping through these ‘hoops’ that have been forced upon you since your arrival, Celestia said, breaking through the slight silence that had spread over the table as they moved to dessert. I’m sure it has not been an easy undertaking... and I know that my niece was not exactly the most understanding of hosts. 

Given the history of that crystal city, we can understand how she jumped to conclusions. Gabrielle conceded. I didn’t exactly help, though. I made the mistake of thinking that what’s normal for us would be normal for you as well.

That is true, Celestia agreed with a small nod. Still, I had thought Cadance would know better than to assume the same for you. At any rate, I hope the rest of your stay with us will be far less eventful and hectic. Hopefully you will not have to give up your intimacy for the sake of a luncheon in the future, she added with a small knowing chuckle. 

Both Gabrielle and Xavier turned crimson. H-how did you know?

Live as long as I have, you learn to pick up on things, the princess replied with a serene smile. That... and I have excellent hearing when it comes to ‘blanket’ telepathy. 

Oh. Daphne had to put down her fork to stifle her laughter. Oh this is too good, she commented.

Well, Daphne, I would keep in mind that the same applies to you, Celestia said with a small smile. I do believe that destroying one’s brush out of pure spite is a bit... excessive. Celestia watched as the Delphox rolled her eyes before turning back to Gabrielle. I’m mostly telling you this so that you know to shield yourself in the future. While I know that Luna has always loved those who stay up during the night... she does not enjoy hearing them enjoy it.

We… we shall keep that in mind, Gabrielle replied as Xavier turned back to his cake.

Excelent, Celestia stated with a smile. With that settled, I suppose we should return to our other business.

Sorry if this seems rude, but I can’t imagine just what needs discussing, the Delphox said as she sipped at her water.

You don’t have any identification that any officials here can read, Celestia pointed out. Nor do you have money. Before you leave Canterlot, both will need to be looked at.

We never had to worry about that before, Gabrielle replied thoughtfully. Only you had to worry about that, didn’t you? she asked, turning to Xavier, who nodded. 

And it’s not that much of a deal because all the different regions share the same database, Daphne added.

Database? Celestia asked with a small frown. I’m afraid while I know both words I’ve never heard them combined like that. As for all using the same identification... it is true that while an Equestrian citizen will be recognised as that everywhere they go, specific documents are required if they plan on travelling to other countries.

So, before we can do anything, we need a piece of paper saying we are who we are? Daphne asked. Seems pointless.

The bureaucracy is a mindless beast that can’t be tamed, only sated, the princess offered. We don’t do things their way, they make life difficult. Even I need a piece of paper to confirm my identity, she added with a small chuckle.

How long will the process take? Gabrielle asked.

Usually, anywhere from two weeks to two months. However, I am willing to streamline the process, so you can roam Equestria as you please within a week, the alicorn told them with a smile. In the meantime, you’re welcome to stay here in the Castle and I can promise you that you won’t spend all of your time being hounded by those who wish to numb your mind with either neverending questions or noble ‘bickering’.

How does she know what that Twilight pony did to you? Daphne asked, being careful to transmit the thought to Gabrielle instead of to the room at large.

I suspect she either received a report... or she simply knows her. She is a Princess as well, after all, Gabrielle replied while taking the same precaution. That... and I sense that they are very well acquainted regardless.

Celestia simply smiled and drank from her cup of tea as the pair talked for a moment before adding. I heard what my dear former student Twilight Sparkle subjected you to, Gabrielle, and I apologise for her. She is simply very excitable when new knowledge is concerned. It makes her an excellent researcher yet it occasionally cripples her socially, she explained, offering the Gardevoir an apologetic smile.

We’ve encountered that type before, Daphne said, leaning back into the comfortable chair. They mean well, but they tend to forget that we don’t like being treated as experiments.

I understand. I’ve already spoken to her about it, Celestia replied. I’m sure over the years she will simply come to regard you as friends. After all, she like yourselves is going to be here for a rather long time.

That depends on how long we are here for, Daphne pointed out. We don’t know when or if Arceus will decide to take us back home.

Celestia shrugged. If he does then I wish you the best of luck on your own world and if he doesn’t always know that you will always be welcome here in Canterlot, she told them. I know how it feels to travel for hundreds of years and I know the true value of having a familiar place waiting for you upon your return.

Thank you. Gabrielle and Daphne looked at each other for a moment. We don’t really know what to say

Then do what all immortals must learn to do when given a gift by another, Celestia replied. Simply smile and accept.

We’ve spent a lot of time with just each other for company. We’re not used to receiving gifts, Daphne pointed out.

Master Xavier doesn’t even remember when his birthday is, Gabrielle added. The man gave her an unhappy look before saying something. The Gardevoir responded by poking her tongue out cheekily.

That is not overly surprising, Celestia said with a gentle smile. After a few hundred years such things begin to stop mattering. If I were to make a suggestion, decide that your birthday is on the day the year changes. It is a good way to make sure that you both keep track of such a thing, and that you know what year it is... something that is very easy to lose track of.

Oh he knows the year, he doesn’t remember the date, Daphne elaborated. A little hard to forget when he’s constantly reminded.

Ah, I see, Celestia replied with a small nod. I suppose I only lost track of the year due to Discord’s meddling. At any rate, it’s good to know that he hasn’t forgotten his age completely. It is a rather horrifying prospect.

Xavier tapped Gabrielle on the shoulder. A moment later the man’s head hit the table as he cried out in pain. Celestia nearly gaped, and was shocked to see that the Pokémon seemed completely unfazed by what had just happened. I hate that… Xavier thought as he rubbed the forming bruise.

Are you alright? Celestia asked, concern coloring her voice. To my eyes that looked rather like the process of shoving a blunt knife into your brain.

Sounds like an accurate description, Xavier replied, smiling a little. Can’t be helped, though. The human brain just isn’t meant to be able to do this.

I see... Celestia stated before shaking her head slightly. I take it that you did not suffer that pain for no reason Xavier. What did you wish to say?

I just wanted to thank you myself, the man replied sheepishly. I also kinda wanted to explain why I’ll never be able to forget how long I’ve lived. When you stop someone from ending all life before you’re even an adult, you tend to get remembered.

Oh my, Celestia said, her mouth opening and then closing. I take it that that is not a metaphor?

No, Lysandre wanted to kill everyone and everything using an ancient weapon powered by the lives of hundreds of Pokémon, Xavier explained. He wanted to make everything start all over again.

Celestia was silent for a long moment before simply nodding and accepting the words catching Xavier off guard. I see. I would say that I commend you for that, but I’m certain you have already heard that a great deal and are sick and tired of it, she stated, further surprising the man. Remind me to tell you of Discord’s reign at some point and we shall compare notes on the minds of insane megalomaniacs.

Do you remember that story about that man called Ghetsis? Daphne asked. I think he was more insane than Lysandre. Wanted to take over the world, didn’t he?

After trying to rip apart everyone by making everyone think that us being with humans was leading to us being abused. Gabrielle snorted. Insane, she added.

Enough, girls, we don’t want the princess to think our world is a bad place, Xavier said worriedly, glancing at Celestia.

Oh, this world is hardly as innocent as you think. I know the horrors one can find if you dig deep enough, Celestia replied kindly. Ponies will go to horrendous extremes to protect their communities from a perceived threat. Some even go as far as cold-blooded murder. Xavier saw a harsh flash of either grief or... perhaps anger in her eyes but it was gone a second after it appeared.

Should we be concerned? Xavier asked.

No, most ponies know better than to mindlessly lash out. Those that do are considered fools or insane. 

Well if they do we will defend ourselves, Daphne said. 

I wouldn’t expect anything less. If you’ve all had your fill then feel free to retire to your rooms. If you’d like, I can send a photographer to take your photographs for your identification documents,  The alicorn added before she took a sip of her tea. Or I could ask them to wait until tomorrow if that suits you better, she stated, eyeing Xavier and Gabrielle.

Oh, it won’t be a problem, Daphne answered as quickly as possible. After all, no sense in delaying something as small as this, is there? she asked, smirking at the pair.

No reason at all, Xavier agreed, gritting his teeth at the smug-looking Delphox.

Very well then, Celestia declared, hiding a chuckle. If nothing else, I’m sure nothing will happen to disturb you later tonight. Canterlot is a surprisingly quiet city.

Umm… Both Xavier and Gabrielle were at a loss for something to say. Daphne and the rest of the team responded by trying to hide their laughter, some doing better than others.

Celestia just chuckled at the pair. I’ll leave you be now, she said as her horn began to glow faintly. I’m sure you can find your way back to your quarters. I must return to court, but feel free to seek me out if you should have need of me, she added before she vanished in a flash of light.

We should probably get our photos taken, Daphne suggested. 

I suppose you’re right, Gabrielle said with a small shrug as she rose from her chair. She was... nice, she added, her mental voice sounding a bit thrown off.

A little bit strange, though, Xavier thought.

I heard that, he heard a motherly voice say in his head. He jumped and nearly fell out of his chair. Of course I can’t deny the truth, it added. But I’m sure you understand how age can give rise to… eccentricity.

“Let’s get going,” the man said hurriedly.





“I think I may have come across too strong,” Celestia told Luna with a small frown as the alicorn pair sat together on a rather large couch within her chambers. 

“Oh?” the darker alicorn asked. 

“In trying to explain to them that I know how it feels to be immortal I may have scared them,” the alabaster alicorn said, letting out a sigh. “Either that or I came across as a bit... too casual.”

“I’m not sure about you, but I got the impression that they’ve been immortal for quite some time. Far longer than our dear niece, that much is certain,” Luna replied.

“I received the same impression,” Celestia agreed. “Though I still feel I was too casual about things... I’m far too used to speaking with you and the dragons who know they’re going to be immortal.”

“Yes, from Twilight Sparkle’s notes it seems clear that they either achieved immortality or had it thrust upon them.” Luna frowned. “Though what could have forced such a thing must be powerful indeed. Like… like a god,” she muttered.

“I’m not entirely sure I would count that out,” Celestia replied. “Though from my conversation with them it seems that it was obtained after they prevented some great catastrophe. Perhaps it was their reward.”

“Then whoever bestowed it upon them was either short-sighted, or malicious,” Luna concluded.

“Indeed... immortality is not something thrust upon someone without their knowledge...” Celestia said, her mouth turning down into a frown. “In fact, I would not have granted it to Twilight were I not sure that she could both handle it and have agreed to it.”

“They did say that they have bested gods,” Luna said thoughtfully, ignoring her sister. “Perhaps one of these gods decided that their punishment for facing them in combat was to live forever.”

“Like you said, they claim to have bested them, though. Surely that would only make sense so they could live forever with the shame of losing,” Celestia countered.

“Beings of such power surely move in ways we can’t comprehend. To try and do so is likely a path to madness.” Luna let out a disgusted noise and threw away the piece of paper she was reading. “Though some of these demands the nobility make feel to be a quicker path.”

“No, Luna.”

“But I didn’t even - ”

“You didn’t have to.”
	
	
> Chapter 11
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 11


Daphne stared in wide-eyed shock at the view camera the beige stallion had rolled in. That camera is an antique!

“Don’t say stuff like that.”

I remember when we went to that museum in Castelia.

“That…” Xavier turned to the Delphox. “When was the last time we were in Unova?”

It would have been just after your two hundredth birthday, the Gardevoir answered, taking her place before the camera.

I had no idea they were so… primitive, the Delphox thought. Technologically, anyway. The camera in your Pokédex makes it look like they’re scratching pictures into rocks.

“That’s a bit harsh.”

I’m not trying to be mean, the fox said quickly. It’s just that your ‘dex can show a moving three-dimensional hologram and play perfect sound.

“And now you’re comparing Oran Berries with Hyper Potions.”

I guess I am. Still, nice to know someone took Lysandre’s things and did something useful with them. Daphne tugged at her coat, thankful for the new brush. Once you get past the whole ‘attempted omnicide’ thing he was actually a nice person, though.

“Hmm,” Xavier grunted noncommittally. He watched as Luca, his Mega Evolution having worn off hours ago, moved past Gabrielle for his photo. “Do you think we should have photos of them when they’re Mega Evolved, just in case?”

It should be fine, it’s not very hard to figure out who is who, Daphne pointed out. And it’s not like you’ll be abusing it.

Blaster and Amp let out simultaneous cries. Now you’ve done it, Gabrielle thought as she put her face into her hands.

Oh dear. 

“Oh, don’t worry about it,” Xavier said calmly as he stood before the camera. “Knowing us, trouble would have found us anyway.”

It really isn’t healthy to think that way, Master, Gabrielle chided as the flash went off.

“Oh, I’m not sure about that. I’ve always found looking at the world differently to be quite… enlightening.” Xavier looked up at the voice and jumped back. 

Standing upside down in front of him, seemingly resting as easily on the air as he did on the ground was a truly strange creature, and considering everything that Xavier had seen recently, that was saying something. 

“What are you?” the human asked, barely containing his shock.

And how did you get in without us noticing? Daphne asked angrily. 

“What? Not who? Hahaha, oh you silly little creatures are always so rude to me,” the creature replied, flapping its odd, mismatched wings. “I suppose I’m a draconequus, at least that’s what I’ve been told,” it said as it floated over to hang in front of Daphne and began to bask his hands over her fur. “My, you’re rather warm. Any warmer and I could use you as a campfire.”

Daphne growled as the thing whipped out a stick covered in marshmallows, sticking it in the air in front of her. The Delphox began to growl slightly and the marshmallows started to rapidly melt. The creature grinned. “Oh this is just perfect,” he told her cheekily as he brought the end of his stick closer to him.

“Anyway, I’m Discord,” the thing said from between sticky white and black teeth. “The master of chaos, the do-er of all things done, the master of the all TIME, SPACE, AND REALITY ITSELF! Or maybe that’s someone else, I don’t know,” the creature replied as he leaned casually backwards while remaining upside down. 

“Arceus has been busy,” he noted, looking between the six Pokémon and one human. He turned to gaze to Daphne. “What are you, from the sixth generation of that little lab he’s got going?” He turned his attention to Gabrielle for a moment before chuckling slightly. “Much better than his first one, you look like you can actually stand on your own without falling over. Fun guy, that Arceus.”

The camerapony hastily packed up his equipment and vacated the room as quickly as equinely possible.

Discord ignored him and glanced over at Xavier. “What’s the matter kiddo? Everyone’s being all silent, like they’ve never seen a Spirit of Chaos before, what’s the matter? Evil chinchilla’s stolen your tongue?” he asked, a pair of... small furry creatures, very similar to Cinccinos, appearing beside him in the air. They both had black goatees and were laughing maniacally.

I have absolutely no idea what is going on, Gabrielle thought quietly.

“I advise never finding out,” Discord commented before he reached out and grabbed the furry creatures, shoving them in his mouth. “It makes life much more entertaining,” he added, revealing that the furry things were actually made of cotton candy. “Anyways; stop being silent, it’s boring, and you wouldn’t like me when things are boring.”

Out of instinct, Xavier pulled out his Pokédex and pointed the scanner at Discord. What he got for his trouble was a picture of a pixel-filled rectangle and the name ‘Missingno’. There was no type classification, no information, not even a species name to go by. “That’s not right,” the man muttered.

“What’s that? Speak up now,” Discord said, putting a finger in his ear and wiggling it around in an attempt to clean it out. “My hearing’s not what it was,” he added, his ear becoming bigger than the rest of his body.

Luca had had enough of the abomination and let out a roar. An aura blast rocketed across the room and slammed into Discord, exploding on impact. 

To the Lucario’s surprise, the blast did nothing and Discord, all the parts of his mismatched body back to their normal size, hovered there with a smirk on his face. “That was some attack, I almost kind of felt it,” he commented before he snapped his fingers and a collar appeared around Luca’s throat and the Lucario fell down on all fours. “If you be a good doggie, maybe I’ll give you a treat and a belly rub,” Discord continued with a chuckle.

Luca grabbed at the collar and pulled at it, ripping it off with ease. He growled again and this time unleashed a blast of psychic force, quickly following it up two spheres of spectral energy. The balls of solid shadow slammed into Discord.

“Okay, you’re mad, I get that,” the draconequus said, waving away the smoke. “Still, no reason we can’t be civil.”

Luca, stop, you’re not actually doing anything, Daphne said commandingly. Don’t give him the satisfaction. The Lucario let the aura around his hands dissipate, but he still glared at the draconequus.

“Oh stop pouting, it makes you look childish,” Discord said casually. Luca now found himself wearing a pink baby’s bonnet and bib, a matching pacifier in his mouth. 

Are you simply here to bully us? Gabrielle asked as Daphne fell over, cackling in glee at the Lucario’s current state.

“No, but when Fluttershy said that Starbutt had gone off to see ‘aliens’ I had to see for myself. I certainly didn’t expect anything from my old friend Arceus.”

“You know Arceus?” Xavier asked.

“Well, ‘know’ isn’t the right word. And neither is ‘friend’, now that I think about it.” The being seemed to put his head into his hands contemplatively. “But yes, we are acquainted. Gave him a few pointers, even.” Discord found himself covered in enough confetti to cover a small room. “Oh now you’re just wasting your energy,” he chided, turning to the shocked Blastoise. Blaster fired off his cannons a few more times, each time producing more confetti.

“Besides, who do you think gave him the idea for tortoises with artillery in their shells? Or sheep with static wool? Honestly, the big bird of prey there is completely mundane,” Discord said drolly. “I swear Arceus made one that was on fire…”

“Talonflame?” Xavier asked. “Or Blaziken?”

“Those are the names you gave them? My goodness, for a race so creative, you humans can be so boring sometimes.” Discord rolled his eyes, the orbs quite literally spinning around like golf balls in a hamster wheel. “Don’t tell me you gave any of those other brilliant works of art dumb names. I swear, the pink one can come up with better names.”

“Daphne. Daphne!” Xavier shouted so the convulsing Delphox could hear him. “Get up and control yourself. It’s embarrassing.”

Look at him! she mentally screamed, pointing a shaking finger at Luca. The Lucario’s unwanted wardrobe refused to budge, despite his pulling at it with enough strength to shred steel like paper. Clearly Discord wanted to keep humiliating him. How can I not laugh at that!? 

Discord simply smirked at the scene, seeming to enjoy both the attention and the Delphox’s amusement. “Thank you my dear, I’ll be here all night,” he told her with a chuckle before turning back to Xavier. “So, what brings an immortal human and his group of demigods with him to little old Equestria, eh? I mean, as famous as I am, it can’t just be little old me.”  

“Honestly, we didn’t even know you existed until a few hours ago,” Xavier replied.

“You didn’t?” Discord asked, looking hurt. “They... they didn’t mention their best buddy Discord?”

Arceus dumped us in the middle of a blizzard, Daphne pointed out as Luca finally managed to pull the pacifier from his mouth. Not that it was a problem, though. I just think he kept stuff hidden from us because he thought it’d be funny.

“That sounds like old Arceus,” Discord agreed with a small chuckle. “Though personally I prefer Giratina. He’s a real comedian once you get to know him, though it’s very dry comedy.”

“He tried to eat Razor,” Xavier said flatly.

“Well, I wouldn’t know, never been one for poultry.” Razor let out an angry squawk at the implication of being no better than a farm animal. Discord rolled his eyes at the bird before glancing at Gabrielle. “Hmm... and what about you?”

What about me? Gabrielle asked defensively.

“I don’t know actually,” Discord replied before he gestured at her with a talon. “You’ve got enough power to make me raise an eyebrow, even if only a little, but you’re... distracted, I feel. You’re full of heat.” Daphne and Luca managed to stifle their laughter.

And what is that supposed to mean?

“It means that something inside of you is absolutely boiling,” Discord replied before his eyes widened. “OH! I see now. Feeling a bit neglected, are we?”

I-I have no idea what you’re talking about, the Gardevoir managed to get out, backing away from the draconequus.

Discord simply smirked and snapped his fingers. “Well then, ta ta, never let it be known that I kept lovers apart, Cadance would have quite the bone to pick with me about that,” he said. “Of course, you’ve got one of your own to ‘pick’ don’t you? Have fun and don’t cut yourself.” 

The draconequus vanished, but as he did he pointed a finger at Xavier. “Well that was weird,” the man said. He went to scratch himself but found his range of movement a little limited. “Huh?”

Xavier looked at his hands and frowned. “Dammit, did I get hypnotised into thinking I’m a Gallade again?” the trainer asked, looking down his arm to see the distinctive green extendable elbow blades.

Oh my goodness, he heard a female voice say.

The trainer turned to see Daphne looking at him in a way that could only be described as ‘befuddled’, while Gabrielle simply stood there, mouth wide open in shock. Luca looked incredibly confused, Amp looked scared, while Razor just looked furious. The only sign that Blaster gave that he was even slightly confused was a slightly-raised eyebrow.

“Gabby?” Xavier stepped closer, doing his best to ignore how different his legs felt. “You okay?” he asked, waving a hand in front of her face. 

“Where is Xavier?” he heard someone growl. “What did that freak do with him?”

“Don’t panic,” a calm, deep voice responded. “You know Xavier isn’t in any danger.”

“But we don’t,” a higher-pitched, but undeniably male voice replied. “One moment he was here, the next a Gallade was in his place!”

“Then we should ask the Gallade,” a smooth, yet menacing voice said. Xavier turned towards the sound of an unfurling wing and saw the Staraptor pointing at him, using his best death glare.

“Razor, why are you pointing at me?” Xavier asked, feeling annoyed at being left out of the loop.

“How do you know my name?” Razor asked threateningly, getting right into Xavier’s face. 

“I gave it to you!” the trainer responded angrily, looking down at Razor. He couldn’t help but feel that he was a bit closer to him than normal, though.

Xaiver? Daphne’s voice rang out in his mind. Is… is that you?

“Yes, it’s me! What is wrong with everyone?” he demanded before frowning and looking at Razor. “And why can I understand you?”

“Oh dear... this is going to be quite a bother,” a new voice said, Xavier turned to see Amp looking at him worriedly. “Um, sir... you may have... ah... acquired... some new limbs, so to speak…”

“Wait. I can understand you.” Amp nodded hesitantly. “Actually understand, instead of just knowing what you mean.” Xavier’s eyes went wide as he stared at his elbow blade. “Oh sweet merciful Arceus.”

“Err... yes, that,” Amp replied with a hesitant nod. “Please be careful sir, they look rather sharp.”

“That freak!” Luca shouted. “Next time I get my paws on him I will beat him to death with his own horns!”

“He’s not that different,” a deep baritone voice said from behind Xavier, undoubtedly coming from Blaster. “He’s still who he always has been, and I’m sure it will wear off.”

“We don’t know that,” Amp pointed out, twiddling his cloven hooves slightly against one another.

Gabrielle stared at Xavier for a long moment, composing herself before calmly saying. I will remain here with Xavier and study his condition, she volunteered. Everyone else should leave unless you want to risk turning into humans due to some ironic effect.

Really? Daphne asked. ‘Studying the effect’? We all know what you’re going to study, and it won’t be that.

Gabrielle sniffed. I will be very hands on, I assure you, she replied stiffly.

“I’m not sure I want to take part in this…” Xavier said, backing away a little.

“Err... we should probably leave, post haste,” Amp declared, noticing the look in Gabrielle’s eyes. “Quickly now everyone, evacuate the room in an orderly fashion.”

“Wait, ‘evacuate’? What is that meant to mean!?” Xavier turned to Luca, only to see him walking away.

“I want nothing to do with this,” he declared. “Besides, I need to spar.”

I’ll go with you, Daphne offered. The further we are from here the better, she added as an afterthought.

“I will give you the same advice as always, Master,” Blaster said slowly as he began to walk towards the door. “Hang on tightly, and whatever you do, don’t let go unless you wish to be lost in the storm to come.”

“You’re just gonna leave me here!?” Xavier let out a strangled sound when Gabrielle pulled him closer.

“It is as the old saying goes; never get between a Lady and her Lord,” Blaster replied over his shoulder before he walked out the door and closed it behind him.

Now, my handsome knight, Gabrielle said lustily, will you lead, or shall I?

“Uhh, G-Gabby, slow down a little. You’re not being yourself right NOW!” he yelped when her hand went lower.

No. We’ve been apart too long as it is, she stated in reply before she gave him a deep kiss, catching the man-turned-Pokémon off guard. And I will not waste this opportunity! There was something in her ‘voice’ that Xavier hadn’t heard before... it wasn’t lust or need... it was desperation. She sounded like she was on the verge of either tears of screaming.

“O… okay. Just take it slowly, will you?” Xavier asked.

Of course, Gabrielle replied, leaning in towards him. They kissed passionately, revelling in each other’s presence. When they pulled away, the Gardevoir let out a gasp. What in the world!?

“What is it?” Xavier asked, pulling away further to look at her better. “What’s wrong?”

Nothing’s wrong, but… Gabrielle pointed at him. You’re normal again.

“Really?” He looked down and saw that everything was the way it should be. “Oh. That’s kind of a relief.”

I... suppose it is, she said, letting out a sorrowful sigh, her voice becoming despondent. I suppose it... it was too good to be true, she added in a whisper.

She let out a yelp when Xavier scooped her up into his arms. “Just because I’m back to normal doesn’t mean we can’t do anything,” he pointed out.

Gabrielle leaned against his chest lightly, still looking depressed. I... I know... it’s just... never mind. Shall we?
	
	
	
> Chapter 12
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 12


While Gabrielle and Xavier indulged in the pleasures of the flesh, the rest of the team had found something else to do. 

Daphne watched passively as Luca beat the stuffing out of a punching bag. His eyes were narrowed dangerously and every few moments he would growl something about tearing out Discord’s spine. The Delphox cast her gaze around the gym and saw Amp practicing some of his few physical attacks. The Ampharos preferred to strike at range, but knew he couldn’t rely on that alone.

She of course had no reason to practice any of that, she was confident in her skills and knew that they needed no real improving. How could one improve upon perfection? 

“You’ll get soft, Daphne,” Luca muttered. 

“Oh please,” she replied with a roll of her eyes. “Like that’ll ever happen.”

“You’ve seen it happen,” Amp noted, unleashing a barrage of burning punches that charred the target dummy. 

“I have, but you both seem to be forgetting something very important,” Daphne stated with a smirk as she drew fire to her wand, watching it dance across it. “Nothing gets close to me.”

“Really?” Luca asked, the smirk in his voice obvious.

“Yes, not even you, you musclehead,” the Delphox replied as she pulled up a barrier. The Lucario appeared before her not a moment later, his fist having made contact with the shield. 

“It’ll only be a matter of time,” Amp said, spinning around and slamming the ball of his tail into the dummy so hard it shattered. “Whoops.”

“It isn’t as if I’m a twig,” Daphne pointed out with a roll of her eyes as the Ampharos picked up the pieces. “I’m perfectly capable of taking hits, as you should both know.”

“Like when Wikstrom’s Scizor destroyed you in a heartbeat?” Luca suggested.

“One time, I let that happen one time...” she muttered.

“One time that was broadcast all over the world,” Amp pointed out.

“I’ll broadcast little pieces of you all over the world if you keep it up,” she snarled. “Then we’ll see who can or can’t take hits.” 

A cold blast of water suddenly swamped her from behind and knocked her to the floor.

“It seems like you still cannot,” Blaster said calmly, his normally stoic face lifted up into a slight smile. “I suggest more practice.”

“Dammit, Blaster, I’ve seen you blast holes through concrete walls!” Daphne screamed as she picked herself up. Luca and Amp laughed at her misfortune. “How am I meant to withstand that!?”

Blaster simply shrugged and returned to the target he’d been hitting with his massive fists. “That may be true, but you must still practice. Cockiness is the first of many steps to defeat.”

As Daphne began to wring herself out, Luca turned to the door. “Those are some very strange auras,” he commented.

“What do you mean by that?” Amp asked with a frown.

“They’re not bad, just… very different.” He tilted his head. “I can’t really describe it.”

He was saved the trouble when he saw the auras’ owners step through the door. “Huh,” Daphne muttered, her tail in her paws as she stop mid-wring. “Well that’s… different.”

“It’s like someone stuck the back half a Pyroar to a Braviary,” Luca commented as he looked over the armoured figures.

“Ehhh, maybe, they have nice wings, that’s for sure,” Razor agreed as he alighted next to the Lucario. “Though they seem a little small. Can’t see how they could possibly provide any sort of lift.”

“I wonder what they want,” Daphne said as she glanced at it. 

“Don’t talk to them just yet,” Luca suggested. “Let’s see what happens,” he added, turning back to his punching bag. His punches were slower and less powerful as he focused on the newcomers.





“What are these... things doing here?” Stormtalon asked, cocking his black feathered head to the side as he examined the strange creatures who were using the gym.

“No idea,” Razorbeak replied, frowning faintly as his grey fur lay flat across his back.

“Don’t they know this is our gym?” the Bloodclaw asked indignantly, his red feathers flaring. 

“Hmm... it doesn’t look like it,” the Stormtalon stated with narrowed eyes. “Though... they do look pretty strong,” he observed as the Diamond Dog slammed its paws into the punching bag. 

“I’ll agree with that,” Razorbeak commented. “Except for that fox one... she looks weak.”

“Yeah,” Stormtalon agreed before turning to Bloodclaw. “What do you think?”

“I like the turtle,” Bloodclaw replied, looking at the massive turtle who was examining them detachedly as it reset a punching bag. 

“Yeah, something that fat’d make a lot of soup…” Razorbeak commented.

“No, I just like turtles,” Bloodclaw replied with a roll of his eyes. 

“Whatever, they’re still in our gym when we’re scheduled for practice,” Stormtalon stated. “And personally, I don’t want to fall behind because some strange creatures were using our gym.”

“Maybe we wouldn’t have to...” Razorbeak replied as he looked over at the creatures. “They seem strong enough to give us a good sparring match or two.”

“Oooh, that’s a good idea,” Bloodclaw replied before glancing back at Stormtalon. “Boss?”

“I don’t see a problem with it, long as they agree,” Stormtalon stated before walking forwards and clearing his throat. “Would any of you creatures care to spar?”





“Oh great they’re trying to talk to us.” Daphne commented, sweeping her body with her wand to get rid of the rest of the water.

“What do you think they want?” Amp asked as he wiped a bit of sweat away from his forehead.

“Don’t know, don’t care,” Luca replied as he slammed his fists into the bag a few more times. “They’re getting in the way.”

“Let’s just ignore them,” Razor suggested. “They’ll get bored eventually.”





“I think they’re ignoring us,” Stormtalon reported with a frown. 

“Or they can’t understand us,” Bloodclaw replied, frowning. “Aren’t these the aliens we were told about?”

Razorbeak frowned. He was anxious to get started, and didn’t want his CO to find out that they’d been slacking. They’d been playing babysitter for the ambassador for the last week without even the chance to do anything remotely physical and his muscles were screaming for a workout. A thought suddenly struck him. The solution was obvious. 

Without consulting his companions he walked up to the Diamond Dog-like creature who was punching the bag and waited until the being turned to look at him, an annoyed look in its eye. Razorbeak took a step back before rising onto his hind legs and assuming a boxer’s position. He gestured between himself and the creature and mimed throwing a few punches, taking care not to actually hit the Diamond Dog.





“Is it trying to be cute?” Luca asked as he watched.

“I think it wants to fight,” Daphne pointed out. 

“And I can’t imagine why, you know that I’d take it down without trying,” he growled.

“I think it may want to spar,” Blaster observed placidly.

“Please, it would be a waste of time,” the Lucario replied, returning to his punching bag. He made sure to put enough force into the punch to send it towards the ceiling, but not so much that it flew off its chain. “And energy,” he added.





“Hmm...” Razorbeak frowned at the Diamond Dog who seemed to be ignoring him.

He had a high tolerance for many things, pain, alcohol, whining nobles, but being ignored when he didn’t want to be was not on that list. So he did the obvious. He reached out and tapped the diamond dog’s shoulder. The Dog turned, looking even more annoyed than before, and was greeted by a taloned fist to the stomach.





Luca smiled as the griffon’s expression turned to one of pain. “Persistent, I’ll give them that much,” he conceded. “Still, if punching me does more damage to it than to me, I can’t see the point.” 

“Oh, have a heart you cold bastard,” Daphne said angrily. “He wants to fight, the least you could do is give him one. Even if you have to go easy.”

“Fine, if it’ll make you happy then I’ll - ” Luca was cut off as the griffon swept one his powerful leonine legs out and knocked his legs out from under him.

“Then you’ll eat dirt?” the Delphox asked. “I do love it when you do that.”

Luca got to his feet wordlessly. He sized his opponent up, taking careful note of how its armour covered its body. “Next time, you should pick on someone your own size,” he said as his eyes began to glow.

The griffon’s eyes widened just a bit but other than that it made no move to retreat, though it did obviously tense. That was all it could do before Luca launched himself, slamming into the griffon with enough force to move boulders.

The pair tumbled to the ground, but to Luca’s slight surprise, and glee, the griffon took the blow well and landed with ease after a single roll and came out atop him. As it did so, it slammed the side of its hand into the Lucario’s neck.

Its triumphant expression was replaced with one of confusion when his attack seemed to have no effect. “You’ll have to do better than that,” Luca growled as he bunched his hind paws up under the griffon and kicked up, hard.





“Do you think we should help?” Bloodclaw suggested as Razorbeak slammed into the padded ceiling. “It doesn’t look like that dog knows the rules of combat...”

“Hmmm... I think we should,” Stormwing agreed. The pair moved to join the fray, but were cut off when a strange, shimmering barrier appeared before them.

And what do you think you’re doing? they heard a voice say in their heads. You never get in the way of a one-on-one battle. Besides, there are others who are itching for a fight, it added.

Stormwing froze in place for a moment before closing his eyes and falling back on a bit of training. Your friend there isn’t following the rules of combat, he thought clearly, hoping it would be enough.





Daphne was a little surprised when the creature managed to project a message at her. Unfortunately, it was a little hard to make out. “Rules…? What does it mean by that?”

“What?” Amp inquired, glancing over at her, diverting his gaze from the griffon who had managed to catch his breath and deliver another glancing blow to the Lucario.

“I think it said that Luca is breaking some kind of rule.”

“What!?” Luca snarled. “I would never do that!”

“I wouldn’t bet on that,” Amp said a bit caustically. 

“You like having that little light bulb attached to your tail?” the Lucario asked lowly, pushing the griffon away. 

“Very much so,” Amp replied, his voice almost uninterested. “Though if you would like to cease violating whatever rules you happen to be breaking, and come over to try and remove it, you’re more then welcome to.”

Luca stomped over and put his snout right up against Amp’s. “I’ll do a lot more than ‘try’, you overgrown lamb chop.”

“Will you? I thought your tricks only extended to retrieving the newspaper and begging for treats,” Amp replied with a smirk. The smirk disappeared when the Lucario’s expression turned murderous.

“I’LL RIP YOUR HEART OUT!”

“Oh bollocks.”





“You okay?” Bloodclaw asked Razorbeak as he helped his friend back to his feet.

“Not too bad... though I don’t think these things have any actual idea of how to spar honorably,” Razorbeak replied with a shake of his head. “I scored more then enough points to have one though, so there’s that.”

“And now they’re fighting each other,” Stormtalon added with a glance over at the dog and the... sheeplike thing. His gaze also drifted over to the fox who was facepawing at the other two. This. Happen. Often?

Xavier will not like having to waste his medical supplies on this… was all he got in response.

“Ah...” Stormtalon frowned and turned back to his squaddies. “Razor, go to the infirmary and make sure that nothing got broken, Blood, go with him. I’m going to do a bit more investigating here.”

The others made to leave, but stopped at the sound of electricity. The sheep-thing, in the middle of a brilliant impression of an overcharged cloud, jumped out of the way of a swing made by the Dog with what looked like a glowing bone. “That’s enough weird stuff for today…”





Gabrielle’s head lay against Xavier’s shoulder, her eyes partially closed, her breathing calm and blissful as her hand drifted over his chest. To Xavier, it looked as if she had just released a huge amount of tension, which of course she kind of had. Though if he had to compare it to something, she looked as if she’d just submerged herself in a hot spring. 

The pair lay there in silence for a while, just content to be with each other. Eventually, though, the man voiced the question that had been puzzling him for a while. “Gabby…?”

The Gardevoir just made a trilling noise, letting him know that she was listening.

“Before, when I was a Gallade…” Gabrielle’s eyes opened fully and she looked up at his face.

Yes? she inquired quietly. What about it?

“Why did you seem so… upset when I changed back?”

I was hoping you wouldn’t ask me about this… Gabrielle murmured. I’m not sure if I can explain this without scaring you away.

Xavier couldn’t help but laugh at that. “Gabby, are you being serious? We’ve been around each other for three centuries. I’ve seen you fight gods. I’ve seen you tear a Tyranitar limb from limb because it hurt me - ”

I admit, I did get a bit carried away, the Gardevoir thought quietly.

“ - it’s going to be kind of hard to ‘scare me away’ with just words after all that,” he told her casually as he hugged her tighter. “Now tell me... what’s wrong?”

I… All right. I… Wherever we go, I’ve seen other Pokémon with families. I don’t mean the families of their trainers, she hastily clarified, but with… mates of their own. And babies. I want that.

“You want…” Xavier looked at his lover. “Gabby, how long have you…”

I don’t know. I don’t know when I first started feeling this way, only that I do. she looked away from him for a moment, tears coming to her eyes. I... I love you Xavier, and I always will... but... I want more... I... I want children...

Xavier blinked owlishly at her. “You want... children...” he said slowly. “As in... little Raltses...”

 I shouldn’t have brought it up, she muttered as she wiped at her eyes. I’m sorry, it was stupid.

The man started thinking. He couldn’t deny that he was curious about fatherhood. Admittedly, he hadn’t actually imagined that it would happen like this. “Gabby… Are you sure about this?”

Surer than I’ve ever been, she replied, her mental voice full of determination. 

“It’s just… Well, we’re immortal.”

And?

“What if… what if any child we have isn’t? Could you… could we live with that?”

I would rather mourn our child after they have lived a happy, fulfilling life if it means not seeing them suffer the same pain we did. We may all have each other, Xavier, but who would our child have? she asked. Parents they would hate for burdening them with this curse. And if they are immortal, then we simply do what we can to help.

“You’ve really thought this through,” Xavier commented after a few seconds.

I’ve been thinking about this for… longer than I can remember. I don’t want children, I need children. There’s this part of me that feels so empty, she said sadly.

“Uhh…”

If you don’t want to do this, then I understand. I just wanted you to know how I feel.

“Woah, woah, woah. Who said anything about not going through with this?” Xavier sat up, knocking his lover from his shoulder. “Gabby, the idea scares me, I’ll be completely honest. But I’ve kinda wanted to know what parenthood’s like. Never thought it’d be like this…” he muttered.

So… you mean… Gabrielle looked up at him, tears forming in her eyes.

“If we can find a way, then we’ll do it. I promise you.” The man chuckled when the Gardevoir rolled over and hugged him tightly, sniffling loudly as she wept happily into his chest. 

Thank you. Thank you so much. There was a brief silence. Xavier?

“Yeah?”

We just had a deep, heartfelt conversation. Now you’re rubbing my horn…

“Are you complaining?” he asked as his hand kept rubbing the small red protrusion on her back

... No.

“That’s what I thought.”

The tenderness of the moment was shattered when a momentous explosion sounded. “Oh for the love of Arceus,” Xavier muttered.

Oh great, Gabrielle agreed. She watched as the man got out of bed and walked to the window. She couldn’t help but enjoy the view.

“Gabby, pass me my pants,” he said flatly.





Amp stood over Luca’s unmoving form. “So…” he panted. “Do you… do you give up?”

The Lucario struggled to get to his feet, his arms moving stiffly. “Y-you…” he groaned as sparks ran over his entire body. The Ampharos watched as his opponent tried to fight through his paralysis, ignoring the pain from the numerous burns he had been afflicted with. 

“As nice as it is watching you two try and murder each other,” Daphne interjected, “how do you plan on explaining away the damage?” she asked, waving a hand around the room. The floor was covered in scorch marks, the windows were all shattered, and there was a new skylight, courtesy of an aura blast that had missed its mark.

Standing beside the fox and having observed the entire fight was Stormtalon. He was doing his best to squash both his relief that neither of his soldiers had been involved in the fight, and the fact that he now desperately wanted to try his talons against them. The griffon mindset was an odd one.

Most. Impressive. Though. Not. Very. Controlled, he sent towards the fox. They. Lack. Discipline. 

I’m getting tired of only getting half of what you’re trying to say to me, Daphne commented. As for them ‘lacking discipline’, what you saw was them going easy. If they really put their hearts into it, there wouldn’t be a building to stand in.

Not. My. Point, Stormtalon replied before shrugging slightly. I. Must. See. To. My. Fellows. A. Pleasure. To. Have. Met. You. He gave her a half bow before he walked away.

“Umm…” Amp looked around the destroyed room. “We did a lot of damage.”

“Weak... building,” Luca managed to say. 

“Xavier is going to be angry,” Blaster observed as he walked over to stand beside Daphne. “I am glad I am not either of you.”

“I’m sure he’ll be understanding,” the Ampharos chuckled, wincing as the pain from his burns flared up again.

Daphne, we’re coming, Gabrielle's voice suddenly stated within the Delphox’s mind. Hold them if they try to run.

You had to ask? Daphne asked back as she started smirking. Besides, Luca’s in no state to run.

... wonderful, Gabrielle replied flatly before severing the link.

“Ooh, you are in so much trouble!” Daphne taunted gleefully.

Luca gave up trying to stand and fell onto his rear. Amp joined him soon after, groaning in pain. “I forgot how hard you hit.”

“Heh. You… You got me good too. That Zap Cannon?” The Lucario chuckled. 

“I got lucky,” the Ampharos replied, waving away the compliment.

There was a brilliant flash of light as Gabrielle and Xavier appeared from thin air before them. Ah, Xavier, there you -  Daphne was rudely interrupted when he hit her on the head with a rolled-up newspaper. What was that for!? she asked loudly, more surprised than hurt.





Xavier hit the Delphox again. “What the hell were you thinking!?” he yelled. 

I didn’t do anything! Daphne replied, putting her hands on her head to protect herself.

“That’s just it!” the man shouted. “You let those two do this! How the hell are we meant to explain this!?”

You could have at least tried to stop that from happening, Gabrielle added, pointing at the hole in the roof. 

Oh please, like I’m supposed to be able to anticipate what Luca’s going to do when he’s moving at the speed of sound, Daphne shot back caustically. And why aren’t you yelling at them? she asked, waving a hand at the two exhausted Pokémon.

“They look like they’re about to faint. I don’t have to do anything. Much,” he conceded. “But the rest of you? Seriously, guys, this isn’t Hoenn or Kalos. Treat everything like it’s gonna break if you touch it wrong, okay? I’d rather we come across as cautious if it means not destroying some national treasure or something.”

This is a gym! Daphne replied, ducking beneath another swing of the newspaper. It’s not our fault this building wasn’t built to standard!

Blaster grumbled something. “Exactly. Things aren’t the same here, we can’t go around making assumptions,” Xavier said. 

So you want us to treat everything like it’s made of glass? Daphne asked. Xavier, just… you do know who you’re talking to, right?

“Yeah, wishful thinking,” the man admitted. “Still, I just want you guys to try. Don’t get into fights inside buildings, keep that to outside. Less collateral,” he added, pointing at the ceiling with the rolled-up paper. 

Luca let out a half-hearted grumble, Amp nodding along. I have to agree with them, most of us aren’t built for close-quarters combat. Even if we fight outside, there’s a good chance we might cause collateral damage or injure someone completely by accident. It’s not like the big stadiums back home, Daphne responded.

Okay, a third telepathic voice interrupted, can any of you explain why three griffons are saying that someone went and blew up their gym?

“Great…” Xavier muttered as Silver Spear walked into the building, looking at the destruction in open-mouthed shock. The stallion said something in his own language the man didn’t understand, but he didn’t have to. The tone said it all. 
	
> Interlude: Nom
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Nom


Xavier held his new Pokémon - no, his new partner -  close to his chest. “You’re cute, you know that?” he asked as he looked down at it, meeting its eyes.

The Fennekin looked back up at him and made a little cooing noise before licking his chin. 

The teenager laughed at the ticklish feeling. “You hungry?” The Pokémon nodded. “All right, Fennekin how about…” Xavier trailed off. “That doesn’t feel right.”

The Fennekin looked up at him curiously. “Mmhm?” it asked.

“I can’t keep calling you by what you are. You need a name,” he declared.

The Fennekin’s eyes went wide in understanding. Then it smiled at him before making a lot of happy noises.

“Calm down, would ya? Okay… how about Firefox!?” The Fennekin’s response was to reach up and bite his nose. Hard. “Ow! Leggo leggo leggo! Okay. Not Firefox,” he relented as the Fennekin smiled up at him smugly. He touched his nose gingerly. “Did you burn my nose?” The Pokémon nodded. “Well can you not do that again? I think I’m gonna be speaking funny for a week.”

Xavier sat down at a nearby bench, still holding the Fennekin close to his chest. “Okay… how about… Scorch?” The Fennekin settled for glaring at him. “Guess not.”

The pair sat there in silence again as the trainer idly scratched the Pokémon behind the ears. “Firebrand?” The Fennekin chomped down on his arm. “Hey!” It let go. “Okay, fine, something normal. Daniel?”

The Fennekin rolled its eyes. “Come on, what’s wrong with Daniel?” Xavier asked. “It’s a perfectly good name. Kenny?”

The Pokémon’s expression turned to shock, as though it was asking him if he was being serious. 

“All right. Ethan?” The Fennekin shook its head. “Brendan?” More shaking. “Lucas?” Now all the boy got was some blank staring. “Hilbert? Nate? Calem?” The Fennekin put a paw against its head and looked down at the ground. 

The Fennekin stayed like that for a while, trying to think of the best way to get it through the trainer’s head. Then, it realised. That red thing, which the strange screen. Immediately, the Pokémon stuck its snout into the boy’s pocket and began rooting around.

“I can’t call you Red, that’s just - hey!” Xavier looked down as the Fennekin managed to pull out his Pokédex. “What are you doing?”

The Pokémon fumbled with the device for a few moments, trying to figure out how to make it work. It let out a frustrated screech and pointed at it with a paw.

“You want me to open it?” When the Fennekin nodded he shrugged. “All right, don’t know what you expect…”

The Fennekin watched in amazement as he pulled the two red sections apart, revealing the screen. “What now? You want me to go to your page in the ‘dex?” He tapped the screen a few times. “Huh. You eat sticks? That’s kinda cool. But I don’t understand what this has to do with anything.”

The Fennekin rolled its eyes before tapping the screen a few times with its paws. It honestly had no idea what would happen, it was just hoping for something.

“Hey, watch it!” Xavier shouted, pulling the device away. “I don’t want you scratching the screen!” He held the thing up over his head, far out of the Fennekin’s reach. “Seriously, why are you so interested in this?” he asked. “I’m trying to decide on a name and…” The teenager blinked as he looked at the screen.

Above the moving image of the Fennekin was the word ‘Female’. There were no arrows anywhere that he could touch to show him a male one. He remembered what Serena had said, how it would only show him Pokémon he had seen and captured, including alternate colourations and gender. 

“Um…” He looked down at the incredibly irritated Fennekin. “So. You’re a girl.”

The Fennekin nodded.

“I… You probably think I’m an idiot.” She nodded again. “At least that explains why you didn’t like any of the other names I picked. So… girls names. Girls names…”

The Fennekin looked up at him expectantly. Her ears began to droop the longer she waited. 

“Velma!” There was a brief pause. “So I guess that’s a yes?” He let out a pained grunt as the Fennekin sunk her teeth into his arm again. “That’s a no…”

As he rubbed at his latest injury, the Fennekin sighed. Of course she had to get the idiot. Just her luck, wasn’t it? 

“Okay. How about Buffy?” That made her pause. That actually wasn’t a bad name at all. A bit odd, though. She wasn’t sure. “If you don’t like that, how about Daphne?”

That one got her attention. For some reason that name really appealed to her. 

“I guess you like that one, huh?” Xavier asked, noticing how happy the little fox seemed with that. “All right, Daphne it is!” The Pokémon cooed happily as the trainer picked her up. “Let’s get something to eat. Then I need to go back home and show you to Mum.”
	
> Chapter 13
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


13


“So…”

I’m as lost as you are, Gabrielle admitted.

“How long has it been since we were at something like this?” Xavier asked, looking around at the various nobles milling around the garden party. Apart from the large number of ponies, there were also a small number of griffons, what looked like a Taurus walking around on its hind legs, and what looked like an off-colour Mightyena with a Lucario’s body shape.

Must be centuries now, the Gardevoir admitted. You got barred from any of the events the Kalosian ‘nobility’ had after Daphne downed twenty bottles of wine.

“Still have no idea how she did that. Seriously, where did it all go?” he asked as he sipped at his wine glass. 

The wine boiled away when it hit her throat, so she was getting smashed off of the fumes, she explained.

“How did she not kill herself?”

She won’t say… she said, looking over to where Luca, Amp and Daphne were standing, at the edge of the party.





“Now I remember why I pulled that stunt,” Daphne groaned. 

“Yeah, these ‘parties’ really are boring,” Luca agreed. “At least the food’s good.”

Amp looked up from the plate he was mashing against his face, to get the food into his mouth faster. “Wha waj dat abow food?” he asked, spraying crumbs everywhere.

Daphne couldn’t help but roll her eyes. “Oh, nothing. What were you eating anyway?”

“Some kind of tart. It tasted a bit like Cheri berries,” he explained before cramming his face full of food again.

Daphne sighed. “I guess I may as well see what there is to eat. Luca, you want anything?”

The Lucario shrugged. “I don’t really care. It should all be good. Just bring enough for Mister Grumpig here,” he added, gesturing at the still-eating Amp.

“Hey, I’m not a Grumpig,” the sheep-like Pokemon objected. “I’’m an Ampharos.”

“I… I know that, Amp,” Luca replied awkwardly. “I wasn’t being serious.”

“Oh.” The Ampharos shrugged before turning to Daphne. “Can you bring me some of those little pies? I don’t really care which ones.”

“Sure.” Daphne pushed her way through the crowd, musing how much easier it would be to just levitate herself over them instead. Still, she didn’t want to seem impolite, and it wasn’t as though any of the ponies would attack her. 

As she walked, she noticed a strange being, a bit like a Mightyena standing upright, staring at her as she walked past him. Smirking, she began to exaggerate her walk, swinging her hips around and swishing her tail. She had to contain her laughter when she heard him start choking on his drink, though she allowed herself a satisfied smirk. She always enjoyed getting those kinds of reactions out of people and Pokemon alike. It didn’t hurt that the wolf-like creature was handsome, in a savage way... though sadly he wasn’t her type.

As she approached the food table, she saw that most if not all of it was vegetarian. “So they throw us a party, but the catering doesn’t suit us?” she asked quietly. “That’s just ridiculous.” Still, she levitated a plate and began piling it up with whatever was in telekinetic reach. 

As she piled up a few plates, each one floating her telekinesis, she noticed a presence behind her. Fully expecting some arrogant blowhard, she turned around slowly. What she saw was a white stallion, tapping his hoof against the ground nervously.

May I help you? Daphne asked curiously.





Blueblood watched as the fox-like one, Daphne, sauntered across the lawn. When her walk and posture suddenly turned seductive, though, he lost control of his jaw. It caught him completely off-guard, and he needed several moments for his brain to start functioning properly.

Now he was more nervous than ever. His aunt had told him of what these ‘Pokemon’ had claimed to have accomplished and this demigoddess, if the words had all been truthful, possessed terrifying power. He never would have thought someone like that would act that way.

He wiped at his brow as he realised he was sweating. That couldn’t do, he was descended from both the lines of the ancient kings of Unicornia and Princess Celestia herself. To be caught sweating at the idea of talking to a female was unthinkable. And yet, here he was, doing just that.

He took a few deep breaths to calm himself down. If this failed, then he would be forced to associate with them for even longer. He just wanted all that sordid business put behind him. He knew that he could ask the other one, but he looked too threatening. It was a risky enough idea as it was, but with him it would be nigh-impossible. It had to be her.

He walked over to her, but had failed to realise how intimidating her presence was up close. He could feel the gentle waves of heat coming off of her, making him sweat even harder. She pulsed with power and strength, poise and grace. When she turned around, he gulped. May I help you?

He stammered for a few seconds before remembering that she wouldn’t understand a word he said. Breathing in deeply, he tried to remember what the book on telepathy had said. A-a pleasure to meet you, Lady Daphne. I was hoping w-we could discuss a few things.

Daphne stared at him for a few moments. Great, you’re one of them, aren’t you? she asked disdainfully. Leave me alone, she added, turning back to the food she was gathering.

I assume by ‘them’ you mean the self-important blowhards that only care about bettering their social standing while throwing everyone else under the wagon, Blueblood retorted, his confidence returning as his disgust for the notion flared. I assure you, I am nothing like that.

Right, the Delphox replied flatly, not even bothering to turn around. And why should I believe you?

Blueblood blinked. He realised that he had no proof or evidence, only his words. He knew he couldn’t get very far with just that, though. Well, as Princess Celestia’s nephew, and a prince myself, I don’t need to worry about bettering my social standing, he pointed out.

A little hard to be impressed with minor royalty when I’ve faced gods, Daphne retorted. 

That wasn’t my point, Blueblood replied, steely determination filling his mental voice. My point is that you don’t need to worry about me jerking you around like a puppet so that others can laugh at or mock you. In short... you can trust me, and I need your help.

Daphne turned to look down at him. So is that all I am? A tool to be discarded when you are done using me? she asked imperiously. Choose your next words very carefully, she warned.

What? No! Blueblood protested. I… Let me explain everything from the start, okay? If you want nothing to do with it, then I will leave you alone.

Daphne looked at him. Fine. Speak your piece.

Blueblood took in a deep breath as he launched into his explanation. He was glad that he could communicate telepathically, and that he only had enough experience to broadcast it solely to the Delphox. What surprised him was how much effort it took. When he was done, he was mopping at his face with a sweat-soaked handkerchief.

Well… I can see why you came to me. But why can’t Luca do this? Daphne asked.

He… he seems too… unpredictable, Blueblood explained. That, and they… they expect him to be dangerous, in some way. They know nothing about you.

So now you’re saying I don’t look dangerous? the Delphox replied, her tone making it clear she felt insulted. 

I never said that, the unicorn replied calmly. Just that they think all you can do are party tricks.

Daphne snorted, a stream of black smoke shooting out of her nostrils. Party tricks? Oh, this is gonna be fun.

So… Will you help me?

It’ll be worth it just to see the looks on their faces when they realise how badly they’ve underestimated me, the Delphox replied. How can I pass up a chance like this?

Blueblood sighed. Thank you. I’ll… I’ll find you later to discuss more details.

Of course. Now, I should have been back with this food a few minutes ago, she said. Goodbye, Blueblood.

Blueblood nodded as the Delphox returned to the Lucario and Ampharos. He wore a small smile, but inside he was dancing around like a foal and cheering at the top of his voice. He almost couldn’t believe it had worked. Now he just needed everything else to fall into place...





Xavier’s ears perked up when he heard music. “Is that…?”

We haven’t danced in years, Gabrielle noted. Do you think we could…?

Xavier chuckled and grabbed her by the wrist. “Come on, Gabby, you think you need to ask?”

Never hurts to be sure, the Gardevoir pointed out as she followed along to the dance floor.

“It’s been a long time, and I’m a bit drunk…” the trainer said nervously as they stood at the edge.

It’s a slow song, don’t worry, Gabrielle said, smiling at the man. Just put your hand on my hip. There was a brief pause where she started glaring at him. I said ‘hip’, Xavier, she added flatly. Save that for later.





“Where are Blaster and Razor, anyway?” Luca asked. 

“Razor said he felt like he was scaring them,” Daphne replied, picking up a small pie.

“And I don’t?”

“You saw that Mightyena on two legs before? They’ve been in contact with them for centuries. In a way, they’re used to us.” She took a bite. “Thish ish good.”

“The food at these events typically is,” the Lucario agreed, taking a bite from his own. 

Behind them Amp lay on the ground, rubbing his stomach. “I made a bad decision…” he groaned as he rubbed his swollen belly. Around him lay a number of scattered plates, each one covered in crumbs and colourful smears. 

“That doesn’t explain where Blaster is,” Luca said, ignoring the Ampharos and his pain.

“You know how much he eats. He’d need an entire table of this finger food to himself.” Behind her Amp groaned again. “Oh shut up, you have no-one to blame but yourself.”

“But it was so gooooood…” the Ampharos moaned. 

“Just be thankful you didn’t drink any wine.” Daphne paused to focus on him. “You… didn’t drink any wine, did you?” she asked nervously.

“I remember what happened last time, Daphne,” Amp replied. “Don’t worry. I learned my lesson. I didn’t even know I could throw up lightning bolts.”

Luca chuckled. “Oh, I remember that.”

Amp managed to sit up and glared at the Lucario. “It’s not funny. How would you feel if you suddenly had no control over your aura powers?” he asked. The Lucario’s face fell. “Exactly. The worst thing was worrying if I was going to hurt anyone by accident.”

“Really? It wasn’t the convulsing violently on the ground as you spat lightning like a Bellsprout spits seeds?” Daphne asked sceptically. “Because that looked pretty painful, if I remember right.”

“Well, it was,” Amp conceded. “But I’ve been punched so hard it fractured some of my vertebrae and I lost all feeling in my left arm for a week. I can deal with pain fine. But the idea of someone getting injured because of my stupidity?” he asked. “It’s not one I like.”

Daphne nodded. She had always made sure that her fire and fury was directed at either those she was fighting or those who had done something to deserve it. Hurting those who weren’t involved was not something she ever wanted to do.

Luca just calmly ate another pie. “It’s not like I’ll ever know what that’s like, though. Can’t get drunk,” he pointed out.

“Yes, we’re all in awe of your mighty ‘super sober’ powers,” Daphne retorted sarcastically. 

“I would actually like to get drunk once,” he pointed out.

“It’s not that fun,” Amp said, lying back down. “Everyone makes a big deal about it, but in the end you do something stupid and wake up feeling like you just died.”

“Or got caught under a herd of stampeding Rapidash,” Daphne added. “Either way, hangovers suck.” For some reason, this caused Luca to snicker slightly. “Oh shut up.”

“What’s so funny?” Amp asked. 

“Don’t. Ask,” the Delphox growled. “If Luca knows what’s good for him he’ll shut up as well.”

The Lucario rolled his eyes as both her temper and body temperature flared. “We’ve all done embarrassing things, Daphne,” he said, ignoring the obvious increase in temperature. “But fine, I won’t tell anyone about that.”

“Thank you.”

“Now I really want to know…” the Ampharos complained. But he had the sense to not push the issue any further.
	
	
> Interlude: Fangirl
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Fangirl


Amp looked up at Xavier as he tagged along. Was he sure about this? He’d heard things, after all, about what happened when celebrities got too close to their fans. Stalkers, attempted rape… Then again, he was here, and more than capable of protecting the man should worst come to worst.

“Calm down, Amp. I’ve talked to her, she seems fine.” Amp’s expression went flat. “And one of her team members has a crush on you…”

Now the Ampharos was confused. A crush, on him? But why? He wasn’t anything special, not at all. He wiped at his forehead. When had he started sweating? Was this why Xavier had dragged him along, despite Luca being better suited for bodyguard duties? 

“Now come on, we agreed to meet at the Rondez-View Ferris Wheel,” the man said, leading his Pokémon through the bright neon sea of lights that made up Nimbasa. “She said at eight, and it’s quarter to. I’d rather be early than late, so hurry up.”

Amp followed, his thoughts muddled. Just what was happening? This was like a terrible romance novel, like that one with the guy who turned into a Mightyena and back. Things like this didn’t happen in real life. Then again, considering that he had fought the physical embodiment of creation, he wasn’t exactly qualified to judge what was ‘normal’.

“There they are!” He was shaken out of his thinking when Xavier tapped him on the head. “Pay attention, you almost walked into that pole.”

The Ampharos glanced up to see a brown haired woman wearing a casual t-shirt and a pair of of blue jeans. She was leaning against the wall and to his surprise, there were a pair of Pokémon with her. One was a rather... terrifying creature, a Hydreigon. The other was a Sylveon, and they appeared to be arguing over something.

The woman caught sight of Xavier and waved at him. “Hey, Xavier right?” she called to him.

“Yeah, so you’re Ashley?” he asked as he got closer.

“Yep, that’s me, pleasure to meet you,” the woman said as she closed the distance and offered him her hand. “I’ve been waiting a while to get the chance to meet you.”

“I was kinda worried, actually,” Xavier admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. “I was kinda expecting you to be one of those crazy stalker ladies. ‘I want to have your babies’ and all that.”

Ashley actually chuckled. “Oh, you get those too?” she asked with a raise eyebrow. “I thought I was the only one.”

“That thing with… what was his name? Ventis?”

“Ghetsis, yeah. He wanted to take over the world by making people give up their Pokémon so they would be easy targets as he rolled over them with a brainwashed kid and Reshiram,” the woman replied, shaking her head. “Ever had a castle randomly erupt out of the ground? Let me tell you, it’s crazy.”

“Seeing an ancient superweapon do the same thing is pretty close, though, right?” Xavier asked back.

“Just about,” the woman agreed with a refreshingly casual chuckle. “So I see you brought the famous Amp, eh? I know someone who’s been dying to meet him.”

Amp started sweating. Oh boy. Why was this happening? Why was this happening? Luca was the one the girls swooned over, not him. Never him. 

“Hey Tiffany, Susan, why don’t you come over here and meet him?” Ashley called to the Hydreigon and the Slyveon. They came over, the Hydreigon towering over him, making him feel even more nervous.

“H-h-hi,” the dragon stuttered out, looking away, all three of its head blushing deeply.

“Oh for the love of…” The Sylveon facepawed. “Really? You’ve been talking about this all week, and now you’re chickening out?”

“I-I-I’m not ch-ch-chickening out T-Tiffany I’m just.... nervous,” the Hydreigon stammered, her voice barely rising above a whisper.

Amp was very confused. Every other Hydreigon he’d run into was very violent and so confident that they made Daphne look humble. This just didn’t make sense.

“Wow. I’ve… never seen a Hydreigon act like that before,” Xavier said slowly.

“She’s kind of shy,” Ashley said as she laid a comforting hand on Susan’s lead neck and gave her a gentle pet. “You can do it!”

“I-I- right,” the Hydrigon took in a deep breath and craned her head down to Amp’s level. “H-hello Mister A-a-Amp I.... I’m Susan. It’s nice to meet you,” she squeaked out.

“Uh…” Amp was at a loss for words. 

“Let’s give them some time to themselves,” Xavier suggested. 

“Sure, want to go get some ice cream?” Ashley asked.





TIffany the Sylveon watched calmly as the two trainers disappeared from view. The moment they were gone, she turned to Amp. “Okay, listen up, because I am only gonna say this once,” she said threateningly, pushing herself as close to Amp’s face as she could, propelling herself upwards via her ribbons to accomplish it. “You hurt Suzy, you break her heart or make her feel anything less than special, I will rip you apart. Am I clear?”

Amp just stared, slack-jawed. 

“T-Tiffany, stop! I don’t want you scaring him!” Susan exclaimed, raising her voice above a barely perceptible whisper for the first time since Amp had met her. “I-I bet Mister Amp is rea-really nice!”

“Oh, yeah, sure he is,” Tiffany replied dismissively. 

Susan let out a small exhale and turned to the Sylveon. “Tiff... I asked you to come for moral support... not for defense... please just let me do this?”

The Sylveon growled. “Fine. But the moment he does something - ”

“I will eat him myself,” Susan assured her using one of her side heads to give Amp a reassuring shake of its head as it mouthed ‘I won’t’. “I-I’m not a child Tiff... I’m older than you.”

“Fine,” she repeated.

“Okay, what’s going on?” Amp asked, his voice finally regaining a modicum of confidence. “Is… is this a big joke, where you pretend to be opposite, or…?”

“No-no... I’m just... shy...” Susan said quietly, her voice lowering again as she sank lower to the ground. “I... I’m sorry... this... this isn’t going how I planned... I just... sorry.” Her voice was now so meek and sad sounding that Amp could almost physically feel the despair leaching off of it.

“You…” Tiffany grabbed Amp by the throat with her flesh-ribbons and pulled him down. “What did I say!? What did I say!?”

Amp briefly lit up as he electrocuted the Sylveon. She let go with a yelp as Susan began to laugh softly.

“Tiff... please go see what Ashley is doing... I don’t think I need your help,” the dragon said slowly as one of her smaller heads pulled the Sylveon away from Amp.

“Fine. But if I hear anything that sounds unfriendly, I will rip off your tail and beat you to death with it,” Tiffany threatened Amp. “Okay?”

“I just can’t take you seriously right now,” the Ampharos replied with a smile.

“You’re all floofy,” Susan pointed out, hiding her laughter behind her other heads. The Slyveon was about to stutter out an angry retort at her friend but let out an explosive sigh and stormed off, fur horribly out of place. “So... sorry about that.”

“Is she always like that?”

“Just... just when she thinks I’m in danger,” Susan said with a small sigh. “Which really... is almost never all things considered.”

“Umm…”

“I’m just wasting your time, aren’t I?” she asked him with a self conscious sigh. “I’m sorry... this was a stupid idea... three heads worth of brains and I still come up with the stupidest ideas...”

“Woah!” Amp immediately began trying to think of the right thing to say. He did not want to be thought responsible for making her cry. “No no no! I just… have no idea what I’m doing…” he finished lamely, hanging his head in shame. “You were expecting someone charming and witty, weren’t you? I’m not. I’m an idiot.” 

Susan’s eyes looked up from their despair, widening in surprise. “No... no you’re not. You’re Amp, the most heroic Ampharos to come along in well... forever,” she said nervously. “I... I don’t want to sound like a crazy... fangirl but... I’ve seen you in action...  I know that you’re not an idiot.” 

“In a fight? That’s all instinct. There’s no thinking, because there’s no time. You stop to think, you’ve given them an opening. But outside a fight? Like this? I can’t do anything right. I walk into things, I hurt people by accident, I even destroyed someone’s computer once.” Amp sighed as he sat on the ground. 

To his surprise, he felt a sudden weight on his shoulder. He looked up to see that one of the dragon’s heads was resting on it while her main head looked down at him, a look of empathy in her eyes. “I know how that feels... people run when they see me sometimes... Pokémon are always edgy around me... they think I’ll eat them,” she said slowly. “I... I hate it but... but I try my best to be nice but then... then some Pokémon will throw a rock at me or... or something like that and I...” She looked away and let out a sigh. “Sorry. My mouth just... talks without thinking. That’s the problem with having three.”

“At least you have that excuse. I’ve only got two legs, two arms and a tail, like everyone else on the team, and I still manage to cause the most accidental destruction,” Amp replied bitterly. “Next to Luca, I’m… well, I’m not really anything. The jester, if anything.” 

“You’re not the jester,” the dragon said quietly. “You’re actually very cool... or I’ve always thought you were... I... I’ve wanted to meet you for a long time now because... because you inspire me.”

Amp snorted. “Me? Inspiring someone? The only thing I inspire in people is the desire to laugh at me.”

All three heads shook in unison. “That’s not true. I’ve seen you be hurt or attacked or just... messed with and... and you always just laugh it off,” she said quietly. “I wish I could do that... I... I’ve been trying to do what you do... it’s... inspiring.”

“I do that to stop myself from freaking out. I throw taunts at them to throw them off guard, or make them angry,” the Ampharos explained. “The times I don’t I’m either scared out of my mind or so angry that all I can think about is destroying them. I… I’m not proud of that.”

“But... you don’t lash out at them,” she said softly. “You don’t have to be restrained from tearing them to bloody pieces because... because they tapped you on the back too hard or... or threw a wad of paper at you.”

“Sorry. I guess I wasn’t thinking when I said that…” the Ampharos replied sheepishly.

“It’s fine... I’m ruining this whole thing....” the Hydreigon said with a shake of her head. “I’m dumping my problems on you... how... how about this... we start over?”

Amp snorted. “You’re not ruining anything. I’m just not used to this sort of situation, it’s my fault.”

“No, no, it’s my fault,” Susan said with a vigorous shake of her head. “I made things awkward. You did nothing but deal with it as best you could.”

“Are… are we just gonna sit here and blame ourselves all night?” Amp asked, a small smile on his face.

“... only if you want to,” the Hydreigon said, a small smile starting to appear on her faces. “I... kind of want to get something to eat.”

“Okay then. Let’s go ask for some money.”





“And then I said ‘you’re crazy!’ and I kicked him in the balls hard enough to keep him down for a full minute,” Ashley told Xavier with a flourish, a relaxed, energetic smile on her face as she did so.

Xavier smiled, but couldn’t stop himself from wincing. “Daphne made it a habit to set fire to the clothes of every Team Flare member we came across. Because part of becoming a member is giving up almost all your money, I’m pretty sure we destroyed the only clothes they had.”

“Really? That’s rich!” the woman said, chuckling at the description. “For my part, I always offered the Grunts’ Pokémon the chance to leave their ‘masters’ behind if they wanted. Oddly enough, they almost always did.”

Their conversation was interrupted when a very angry, and very fluffy, Sylveon jumped on the bench they were sitting on and squeezed herself in between them.

“Wow... Tiffany... did you get too protective of Susan?” Ashley asked the Sylveon. “Again?”

“Wait. She was protecting the Hydreigon?” Xavier asked, very confused by this. “Isn’t it meant to be the other way around?”

“Susan is... shy,” Ashley replied with a small chuckle as she began to smooth out the Sylveon’s fur with a brush. “Because of that Tiff has become a bit... over-protective of her. It’s kind of funny really. I mean Susan helped me take down Ghetsis and HIS Hydreigon and that thing was a people-eating monster.”

“So how did he control it?”

“By being worse,” the woman answered flatly and Matt saw a small flash of... old terror in her eyes before it faded the way it had come and she picked the Sylveon up and placed her in her lap. “Anyways, Tiffy here is just a bit worried for Susan, it’s her first ‘date’ after all.”

“Same for Amp, really. He’s not exactly the most coordinated Pokémon,” Xavier explained. 

“Really? I’ve seen some of those Champion fights you’ve hosted and he seemed to be in control then,” Ashley pointed out with a small frown.

“I don’t get it either,” he agreed. “I mean, he swaggers his way onto the field, perfectly poised and graceful, and after the battle he trips and has to go to the Pokémon Center with a broken nose,” the man said, recalling a particularly embarrassing incident. “It’s like he’s a completely different Pokémon when he’s in a battle.”

“Weird...” Ashley said as she glanced over at the ‘couple’ who seemed to be talking quietly together. “At least it seems like he hasn’t managed to accidentally attack her or something... he would regret that.”

“He doesn’t have any problems with that kind of thing. Usually,” Xavier admitted. “He tends to hurt himself more than anything. Though there was that one time he hit Blaster. He was not happy.”

“Oh, I bet,” the woman agreed as she turned the Slyveon’s head away from the pair. “Relax Tiffy, she’s fine.”

“Why are you so protective?” Xavier asked, looking down at the frowning Sylveon. 

“Because if I wasn’t then she’d get turned into a doormat by freaking everyone,” the Slyveon replied, knowing full well that the man couldn’t understand her. “And in this case I really don’t trust that idiot.”

Xavier frowned. “So you’re doing what you think is best? But what if it’s hurting her?” he asked.

The Slyveon blinked twice in confusion. “You can understand me?” she asked before looking up at Ashley. “I thought only she could... and only partially...”

“I’m just taking a good guess, honestly. Besides, you’re not the first Sylveon I’ve met. Just had to remember how the body language works,” the man replied calmly.

“Wow. That’s actually kind of impressive,” Ashley said with a small grin. “I mean, I know what she’s saying more or less because I spend so much time around her, all of my Pokémon really... but huh... didn’t know anyone else could, especially with Pokémon that aren’t theirs.”

“I spent my entire childhood around Pokémon. My mum, Grace? Rhyhorn racing champion,” he explained. “She made sure to teach me how to just read the general mood of a Pokémon. Didn’t really get the hang of it until I met Daphne, though,” he admitted.

“Interesting...” Ashley murmured before a smile slid across her face. “Huh, just another reason that I’m happy that I’ve had the chance to finally meet you, Xavier.”

“Nice to meet someone else who understands what it’s like, too,” Xavier admitted. 

“Tell me about it,” the woman said with a chuckle. “Oh, and another plus to meeting you, I finally got to hear a Kalosian accent that hasn’t been over-romanticized via the power of ‘romantic comedies’ or jerks trying to abuse it. That’s rare.”

“Oh. I know what you mean,” Xavier replied flatly. “Seeing you haven’t jumped me and ripped off your shirt, either you’re immune or you just aren’t interested,” he said, effecting the words with mock distress.

“Oh, I’m not interested in the least,” the woman said with a small smirk. “You’re not exactly my type...”

Xavier shrugged. “It doesn’t bother me. I have better things to do with my life at the moment than look for love. Sure, it’d be nice, but I’m kinda worried that they only want me for my fame and reputation…”

“I know the feeling,” Ashley agreed with an empathetic nod. “And it’s even worse when so many men try the whole ‘invite you out with a Roselia bud and a box of chocolates’ method.... though I do appreciate the chocolate.”

“Hey, chocolate is chocolate,” Xavier pointed out. 

“True enough,” the woman said with a small smile. “I know that Bianca likes it just as much as I do, so that’s a plus too.”

“I’m sorry, but a Hydreigon acting like her is just so strange that I’m having trouble accepting it,” Xavier said suddenly, pointing at Susan. 

Ashley turned in the direction he was pointing to see her Hydreigon resting its heads on Amp’s shoulders as one talked to him. “Ah, that’s how she tries to comfort or reassure people... it’s actually kind of creepy but it’s cute too,” the woman said with a small smile. “She really does mean well.”

“It’s just… every other Hydreigon I’ve run into has been incredibly violent,” the man explained. “Even if they weren’t trying to kill me, they took a little too much joy in hurting things for no reason. And they were so arrogant as well. Sure, Amp is usually able to teach them some humility, but… it’s like she’s a one in a trillion chance, a… well, a freak accident.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow at him. “You say you’ve been around Pokémon your entire life and you’ve never once found one not acting like another you’ve met?” she asked him.

“Pretty much everything written about Hydreigons emphasise how violent and savage they are,” Xavier pointed out. “The only one I found that wasn’t said something about only respecting those more powerful than themselves.”

“Well yeah, because most of it is written to keep young or inexperienced trainers from trying to catch one and getting eaten,” Ashley pointed out. “It’s not like all Hydreigons are rage-happy blood knights, just like not all Lucarios are honour-bound warriors.”

Xavier nodded sheepishly, remembering that Luca’s favoured tactics, like attacks to the groin and pretending to be unable to fight, went against most of what was written. “Fair point. Guess I’m just used to Luca being different. It’s still strange.”

“Xavier, we live in a world where people dress up in stupid outfits and try to take over the world,” Ashley pointed out. “I don’t think that this is really all that odd by comparison.”

“Then what about that?” Xavier asked, pointing with a finger. 

Ashley turned to see Amp leading a blushing Susan over to them, holding onto one of her heads gallantly.

“Yeah, that’s strange... but adorable,” Ashley said, a soft smile touching her face. Then the woman glanced down at the Sylveon and jabbed her gently in the side. “See, I told you she’d be fine and that you’re being an overprotective ‘godmother’.”

Tiffany scowled and made a grumbling noise. “Just you wait, he’ll break her heart and then we’ll have to clean up all the blood…” she warned. “It’ll be like that incident with the Rattata all over again…”

“Hush you,” Ashley said, rolling her eyes and glancing at Xavier. “You don’t want to know.”

“I’ve seen Luca Blaze Kick a Machamp in the crotch,” Xavier replied flatly. 

“Ever see what happens when a wild Rattata tries to use Hyper Fang on a Hydreigon in the middle of a school demonstration?” Ashley asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Oh. Wow. Makes the time Amp broke that Samurott’s spine look like nothing,” he commented. 

“I saw that actually,” Ashley replied with a grimace. “On the bright side, it’s why I feel like he’s fairly safe with her, other than the fact that she totally digs him.”

“Oddest couple ever,” the man noted. “I mean, apart from that thing in Hoenn with that Wailord and the Delcatty.”

The woman chuckled as the pair neared them, a happy smile on her face.





The night went well, and passed without major incident. The couple got more than a few odd looks, and Tiffany’s constant glaring made Amp nervous, but that was the worst of it. As happy as Xavier was for Amp, he wasn’t happy that he had ended up buying enough food for Susan to feed a small family.

“At least something about her is normal,” he muttered as he inspected the inside of his wallet.

“I’m not letting you pay for all of it,” Ashley reassured him as she reached into her own wallet and pulled out sixty Unovan dollars before handing him the money. “I’m used to paying for her meals, after all.”

“Thanks,” he replied, pocketing the money. “I’d say that the night went well.”

“Yes... yes it did,” the woman said with a bright smile as she turned her head back towards the couple.

“Where are they, anyway?” Xavier asked.

“Ferris wheel,” Ashley answered with a nod towards it. 





Susan leaned against Amp, sighing happily. Amp shared the sentiment. Despite how imposing she looked, and the way she had devoured her food, she was very sweet and gentle. Not once had he felt in danger. In fact, he felt safer than he had in years. The Ampharos glanced up at his date and found her in the middle of a rather odd activity. It appeared that she was holding a silent conversation with her other two heads. 

Kiss him already!

What? No!

Don’t be such a coward!

Yeah! Go for it girl!

But what if he... what if he doesn’t like me?

Then eat him!

Or pin him against the wall and force your to-

No! I won’t do either of those things!

Then at least kiss him, wuss.

The worst that can happen is that he turns you down. As long as he’s polite about it, you won’t have to hurt him. Much.

But... I don’t want to hurt him at all... it’s better if I don’t risk it...

But that’s all you do! You hide and run and play it safe all the time!

You’ll never find out if you don’t take the risk.

But -

“Are you okay?”

The Hydreigon blinked twice, technically six times, and turned to look down at him, a crimson blush crossing her faces. “I’m... I’m okay. Why?”

“You’ve just been sitting there staring at nothing,” he explained. 

“Oh well - ”

Now!
Now!

The dragon’s head moved down towards him for a moment and Amp thought for a fraction of a second that she was going to chomp into him. What happened next was equally astonishing yet not nearly as painful. Her smooth lips locked on his for a few seconds before she pulled away, blushing deeply and looking away.

“I - I - buh - duh -bwuh?” Amp blinked. His mind was reeling. Did that just happen? Did she really just do that!? Why!? Why would she want him!?

“So-sorry, I’m so sorry-I-I shouldn’t have done that,” Susan moaned, her heads hitting the window and shaking the car just a little. “I’m stupid and ugly and way too big and shy and cowardly and worth - ” She stopped when the Ampharos put one of his hands on her mouth.

“Stop. I - I - you caught me off guard. That’s all,” he explained, still unsure what had just happened. “Why?”

“Be-be-because I like you... a lot,” Susan said dejectedly as she floated down to the floor. “You’re so smart and funny and... in control even though you say you’re not and... and I don’t feel like I’m going to break you but you’re not... you’re not like the other Pokémon I’ve met I... I...” she trailed off, unable to continue.

“Do… do you want to do it again?” Amp asked timidly, his golden face turning a vivid orange.

All three of Susan’s heads whipped around to stare at him. “R-really?”

“Y-yeah,” he answered, a little unnerved by the three sets of eyes looking at him.

Before he realised just what was going on, Amp found himself up against the wall, a trio of insistent lips vying for control of his as three tongues fought for the rights to his mouth. Oddly enough, Amp couldn’t find it in him to complain.





“Is it just me, or is that car shaking?” Xavier asked, looking up at the Rondez-View.

Ashley followed his gaze and blinked twice. “Yes, yes it is... but because there’s no fire belching from it... I’m going to assume that it’s nothing we should worry about.”

Tiffany sat there, her jaw hanging open. “Did… did she…?”

“We’ll find out later,” her master said as she gave the Sylveon a comforting pat and then drank from her soda. “If she did, it’s her business, and Amp’s I guess, heh.”