TEEN: - Complete Project Wendigo, The Negative Number

[PiccoloX]

Warning for torture

OOC: This story was started in the RP "A Region Without A Name". However, due to lack of OP input from the start the RP was doomed to fail. I wound up being the only poster, so I decided to call an end to it before I got too deep into the story. Rather than rely on it being an RP I'd like to continue the story started there, restarting from the beginning but using what I could from the story already written. I'm still learning my literary voice, which is why I like to dabble in the RP forums. However, it's just not the place for me. I like leaving my story open enough for others to be a part of it, but more often than not it ends up with me getting too far ahead of the others and kinda derailing the story.

While writing I really liked the concept of Jraken and the chemistry that formed between him and the seemingly opposite Delphox, Seven, in the short time I wrote for the two just seemed to work. I'm still experimenting with character development and tinkering with writing styles, so any creative input would be greatly appreciated. While writing for the two I already had a foreseeable conclusion in mind and I'd like to gradually reach that point. So, without further ado, here is the story of "Project Wendigo, The Negative Number".



Chapter I: Welcome to Vallen

Chapter II: Of Pokemon and Politics

Chapter III: Once Upon A Time

Chapter IV: The Negative Number

 

[PiccoloX]

Chapter I: Welcome to Vallen​

"Hello, there! Glad to meet you! Welcome to the world of Pokemon! My name is Petro. People aff..." The elderly man stumbles through his note cards before a small group of children about to embark on their journey through the region. Unable to find his place and tangling his long white beard while shuffling through the cards Professor Petro tosses the notes aside. Clearing his throat the professor continued; "People call me clumsy, lets leave it at that." With a feeble smile the children lightly chuckle at the old mans antics. Clearing his throat again Professor Petro continues; "I am Professor Petro. I've been assigned here to start your journey through the Vallen region." The professor uses a pointer to show the current island that makes up the region in comparison to the world map. "The Vallen region, as some of you may know, was only established for regional competition some seven years ago. Sense then the largely unexplored island has been belt-lined from one end of the island to the other." Professor Petro follows his pointing stick along the rout to the established Pokemon League on the other end of the island. "Now mind you, this is not a true league setting. You may choose to leave at any point, but this setting is a good experience for those who wish to pursue the league in other regions." The professor folds up his pointing stick; "It'll still be a few more years before Vallen is..." As Professor Petro continued his speach to the children a large man sat at the back of the room. He was a middle aged man with unkempt black hair and a seldom shaved beard. His clothes were worn from exposure to the elements and his wide brim hat had seen better days. He sat, drinking one of several cups of coffee as he read through some of the professors journals. On the floor beside him was a large backpack overflowing with several identifiable tools for exploitative purposes. He'd entered the building shortly after the children arrived, making himself at home as the professor continued his duties. The man did not arrive alone, followed closely by a female Delphox who seemed just as interested in the professors work as he did. Around the Delphox neck was a black collar with barely visible buttons covered by fur. She seemed unburdened by the somewhat bulky collar as she flipped through several books rather quickly.

After the children receive their first pokemon and head out the professor finally has a chance to speak to the man. The professor clears his throat; "Eh... Let me see. Ah! Yes, now I remember. Your name is... Jraken, correct? Jraken Tregres?" The man stands, towering above the elderly professor at around seven feet tall. He tips his hat, extending his free hand to shake the professors; "Yes sir. Did I come at a bad time? Kinda started digging through your stuff and your coffee without askin'." The professor chuckles; "Ah, yes, no, never a bad time to entertain guests." The professor eases into one of the study chairs, peering out the window to see the children before they vacated the area. Jraken sits as well, facing the old professor before handing him the documents to his work in the region; "I've been assigned by Recreational Services to explore the uncharted areas of the region and document the flora and fauna." The professor pulls out an old pair of round reading glasses and holds the paperwork close to his face; "Recreational Services, eh?" The professor lowers the paper to examine Jrakens attire. The rugged appearance was something unexpected from a R.S. employee. Jumping to conclusions the professor asks; "Hmm... What'd you do?" Jraken seemed surprised Petros boldness; "I... I've studied abroad and my field experience caught their eye." Petro continued reading through Jrakens file; "I've worked with R.S. in my time too. Never was a big fan, seems far too secretive for something claiming regional jurisdiction." The professor flips through several papers; "From the looks of... Ah, here it is. Yep, several arrests." Jraken rubs the back of his neck in embarrassment; "You're an astute old codger, I'll give you that. Do I come off as a criminal or somethin'?" The professors brows farrow as he continues reading; "It's just that you don't look like one of'em. Figured they had you under their thumb somehow." Jraken shrugs, lowering his sock to reveal a tracking device strapped to his ankle; "You could say that. Though, it's not like they had to twist my arm or anything like that." The professor places the paperwork on a nearby table and removes his reading glasses; "No, I suppose they didn't. You look like someone who doesn't do well in a cage. Too many miles under yer feet, eh?" The professor reclines back in the chair; "So, what is it -you- are after?" Jraken looks out the window as the last of the children vanish from sight; "I belong out their. Always have. When R.S. came to me with the proposition of exploring the unknown it's not as if I'd have said no regardless of my situation."

The professor moves his seat upright to rest his elbows on his knees in thought; "Jraken... Jraken... I've heard that name before." Jraken chuckled; "I'd hope you knew the name. I took part in writing half the books in your collection." The professor leans up with the look of unexpected delight; "Oh, yes! You're the one who did most of the field work, correct?" Jraken tips his hat; "Guilty as charged... No pun intended." The professor staggers a bit as he stands a bit too quickly before heading to the room where he'd spoke to the children; "Speaking of guilt, what'd you do to get arrested?" Jraken followed while the Delphox remained behind to peruse the study; "Happened several years ago, but feels like only yesterday. I was part of a pokemon rights movement protesting a facility we'd expected to be experimenting on pokemon." The professor stops before several pokeballs. Jraken glances over the pokeballs on the table; "Unfortunately, we were on to somethin'. While the protest heated outside a few others and I broke into the facility. We didn't get far before we were taken down. Didn't even get to see what they were actually doin' there, but the guards were very well trained." Jraken rubs his wrist; "Ever have your arm broke by a Rhyperior? They don't just stop when it starts to bend weird." The professor cringes; "Can't say that I have nor would I like to know the details." Jraken continues; "I only served jail time, was out in a few weeks. I knew we were on to something because the facility was gone by that point, packed up everything and abandoned the site. I was arrested several weeks ago on bogus charges, similar crimes to my past dealings that lead the police to me despite not having anything to do with the charges. However, R.S. intervened before the trial. Pleaded to the judge that my skills could better be served here, exploring the region." The professor nods; "Sorry to hear that, but it seems everything worked out well in the end. Well, eh, minus that ankle bracelet they're makin' you wear and all." Petro waves his hand over the pokeballs containing a variety of starting pokemon; "The reason each region has a specific selection of pokemon to start new trainers with is because they are best suited to exploration of such a region. Now I don't have any native-born pokemon to offer beginners, but based on the trail of routes between settlements I've assembled these pokemon breeds to best aid the young'uns on their journey. I read in your file that you have that Delphox loaned to you from R.S., but if any of these will help in your exploration then please, feel free to take a few." Jraken holds his hands up in decline; "No, I'm not a trainer. All my field work is the study of the natural world and, forgive my rudeness, but there's nothing 'natural' about pokeballs." Jraken points back with his thumb in the direction of the Delphox; "I was offered her pokeball, too, but if R.S. wanted a pokemon to hang around me then they'd have to make due without it." Petro responds with an accepting nod before asking; "Fair enough, though, is there anything I can do to help you get started?" Jraken chuckles and lightly stomps his braced foot; "Unless you know how to jimmy this shackle off I'm just passin' through. I'm not just here to explore the unknown, ya see? A great deal of the natural element can be seen from the civilization formed within it." Jraken looks out the window to the port connecting to the sea; "I'll be taking note of sea levels, local trade and checking out what marine life I can before heading inland."

The Delphox enters the doorway to the room, knocking the wooden frame to announce her presence. With Jrakens attention called she points to a clock on the wall to signal the time. Jraken spoke loud enough to the professor so that the Delphox could clearly hear him; "Why yes, I am looking forward to spending the night in a dank swamp! Thank you for pointing out one nearby! And no, I don't believe in bug repellent, but thank you for offering!" Jraken winks to the professor before heading toward the exit. He continued the ruse, calling out as if still speaking to the professor; "And yes, I will be aware of the local large ticks that plague the entire region! Worry not, for I can easily spot the critters on my bare skin!" The Delphox, all too aware that the human was making fun at her expence, pushes Jraken out the door. Jraken continues with his hands funneled over his mouth to project the words louder; "Thankfully, I don't have bushy fur that would hide the presence of the many, many creepy crawlies that would otherwise feed off my person!" The Delphox pulls out her stick to hurry the human along, poking him in the back to get him away from the professor.


Before leaving the vicinity Professor Petro makes out one last statement from the now-yelling Jraken; "And thanks for the warning of land-leaches!"

 

[PiccoloX]

Jraken and the Delphox made their way to the coastline. The town they'd left behind was quiet, small, something Jraken seemed to prefer more than the studious Delphox who was currently nose deep in a digital map. The region was largely unexplored, but an outlay of the land and several towns throughout revealed the travel route settlers must have taken to cross the landmass.

The duo made their way through a small docking yard to the beach below. Jraken inhaled a lungful of sea air, enjoying the atmosphere. The Delphox, however, had begun scanning the beach. Jraken knew she was using her psychic abilities, though he knew not why. Possibly to do with seeing what can't be seen visibly. Whatever her cause Jraken was more interested in studying the area himself. He starts by leaning down to check the stability of the sand, the texture and color. While he kneels his attention is drawn to the faintly blinking light under his sock, the collar he'd been required to wear as part of his parol. He wasn't fond of the felonious accusations which lead to this point, but he greatly appreciated the moment. Still, he'd rather have undergone this expedition on his own.

Jraken stands and looks out to the sea; "You find what you're lookin' for or are you still lookin'?" he asks, the Delphox seemingly ignoring him. Jraken presses the question; "Awful long way to send me with one of their... Associates. Think you can shed some light on why I'm really here?" The Delphox glances at him for a moment before returning to her scan, replying only by repeating her species name several times. "Yea, I could go for an ice cream too, but that doesn't explain much." His use of humor toward his lack of understanding the Delphox words revealed the anxiety he's trying to hide. Its true he was excited to see this new land, but the invisible tether between the two weighed upon his mind. As well the withheld information he suspected.

The Delphox found it hard to study the land with Jrakens relentless thoughts clouding her vision. The thoughts of a human were rapid, erratic, hard to see clearly and, in this case, hard to ignore. While to anyone else Jraken would seem to be mumbling to himself, trying to study the land if the Delphox wasn't ready to come clean with their true reasons for being here, he may as well been grinding a fork on a chalk board to the psychic. The words were irritating, more than usual. Her vision became more clouded, the words louder. When it seemed the tension was too much and she tempted to set the source ablaze... She heard it. A second voice, before all went quiet.

When her vision cleared, the voices vanished, she realized she'd drawn her stick, ignited, and pointing at the guarded Jrakens face. Jraken lowers his hands, replying to her actions; "Ok! Ok! No ice cream!" Jraken continued to grin, but he'd noticed the distress in the Delphox's face. What had she'd seen or heard to make her seem so pale? It's like she'd seen a ghost. Changing subject, Jraken suggested they follow the coastline to the next port barely visible in the distance. It'd give him time to document the wildlife and nearby flora. He also preferred if Delphox kept moving to see if it wasn't their current location that seemed be interfering with her psychic abilities.


As the two began their trek down the beach the Delphox, who'd calmed down and put her stick away, reached for a button on her collar while Jrakens back was turned. She pressed it and a nearby, smaller button several times in seemingly random intervals. The light on the collar briefly blinks fast before returning to its normal pace. With that done, she moves on, following Jraken as he jots down notes in his small leather journal.

 

[PiccoloX]

The Delphox had been taking in the scenery, this having been her first time on a beach. She enjoyed the view, but the the sea myst slightly dampening her fur and the course, loose sand were an annoyance. Jraken had climbed a nearby rock to overlook the ocean with a pair of binoculars. He called for the Delphox; "Hey, check this out!" When the Delphox reached his position upon the stone he handed her the binoculars and pointed to a distant pod of dolphin breaching the surface as they traveled. "Bottlenose Dolphin, probably nearing land after a long trip from the North. Notice how the pod has taken to traveling with several Lanturn?" The Delphox adjusts the sights of the binoculars to get a better view. Jraken continues; "This is a rare example of a symbiotic relationship between Pokemon and animal. The Dolphin accept the Lanturn to better its survival and the Lanturn mimics the pods mannerisms, such as breaching despite being able to breath under water."

The Delphox hands the binoculars back to Jraken, still watching the pod in the distance. Jraken tucks the binoculars in an easily reached pouch on his backpack. Jraken was aware the Delphox had been raised in an institute, but was unaware how much she knew of wild Pokemon. With her assisting him in this endeavor he continued under the assumption that she was noting the experience and learning from his observations; "Pokemon are a uniquely adaptable species, not just in the sense of their terrain adaptability, but in they are capable of taking on the nature of other species." Jraken teases the Delphox, patting her on the head despite knowing she disliked this; "Just how Pokemon who hang around people take on human characteristics." The Delphox shrugged away, heading to the streps of the peer. Jraken calls out; "It would be great if you got around to adapting a since of humor, ya know? Just sayin'!"

After reaching the top of the stairs Jraken inquires; "So, what do I call you anyway?" The Delphox points to her collar, knowing the human wouldn't understand Poke-speak. Jraken smirks; "Do you like that name, 'Seven'? Isn't there anything you prefer that sounds better? 'Red', 'Ruby', 'Fire', 'Bob'? Anything?" The Delphox folds her arms, sounding agitated. "Ok, ok, 'Seven' it is. But I'll just call ya Partner, 'kay?" The Delphox didn't seem to mind, which is probably the best response Jraken would get from her. With that, the pair headed toward a nearby shop to examine the wares and foods sold.

While glancing over the merchandise Jraken comments; "You can tell a lot about a new region based on the wares, imports and food available." Seven, though not showing it, understood why Jraken was chosen for this expedition. She knew he was knowledgable in the field, but he possessed a worldly knowledge and acceptance of the unknown she'd not come to expect of her piers. As a Psychic type she'd come to know humans at an animal-level, lies and truths mentally bared for her interpretation. However, Jraken continues to surprise her. Through his jokes and teasing she'd yet to sense he'd been baring falsehood.

As they examined the merchandise Seven realized that Jraken had been treating her more like a person than a Pokemon. Though he was goofy and annoying at times it was good to know he held her in this regard. Before the two left the establishment a nearby newspaper catches the Delphox attention. The headline read; "Unknown Creature Terrorizes Countryside". The clipping revealed a blurry photo of a pale, bipedal creature walking away. Jraken comments; "The news is always blowing things out of proportion. It's probably just some territorial Pokemon the locals didn't know about." Still, Seven seemed concerned.

Jraken and Seven leave the docks heading toward the next town known as New Beginings. Seven analyzed a digital map, adjusting trajectories and pinpointing their location. Jraken held several paper maps, comparing the labeled towns and routes. Seven nudged Jraken, pointing to her digital map. Jraken replied; "Yea, I know that maps up to date, but it can't tell us everything." Jraken stops to hold the two different paper maps against a nearby tree. "You see the differences in these maps? You can tell one was made before the other because the other has more landmarks." Jraken cocks his head to signal Seven to bring the digital map; "Now, compare these older maps with your digital one." Seven looks to her map, holding it alongside the tree. Jraken continues, illustrating his points using his thumbs to highlight said areas; "You can see how the civilization of this region has expanded, the flow of human progress. For generations it's been human ingenuity to build from two separate points inward, then to expand outward." Jraken trails his thumbs over two separate points of wilderness on the map; "This tells us which parts of the region are likely uncharted. If we want to better understand the wildlife and terrain we'll have to go here." Jraken trails his thumbs from the central connecting point of the routes outwards; "This will be the flow of wildlife, animals and Pokemon that are driven away from human progression."

Jraken folds the maps and places them in one of his vest pockets. "After a bit of sight seeing we'll be back in Awekhan. We'll be able to stock up on supplies before heading out. Those young'uns from earlier will probably be there by the time we make it." Seven puts the digital map in Jrakens backpack. Jraken comments, seeing several Rattatta stroll into a bush; "With the docile critters in the area the young'uns must have caught at least one along the way. We should be able to see how healthy the diet of this area is by examining them."

As the two head to back to Awekhan from the docks Seven reaches for her collar, pressing the buttons in a pattern which resulted in the quickening blink of the light on her collar. She'd been communicating with someone without Jrakens knowledge...

 

[PiccoloX]

Jraken and Seven make their way to town. With beach port access and a field of docile Pokemon it was no wonder that Petro would establish a lab for budding trainers here. Jraken enjoyed the sleepy feel of the town, made prominent by a Purugly lazily napping atop a fence post. Jraken scratched the Puruglys head, yet it was determined not to move from its comfortable position. It wasn't long before Jraken came across one of the trainers he'd seen earlier back at the lab.

Jraken waved to the trainer as he approached. The normally tall Delphox by his side seemed dwarfed by the height of the man from the boys point of view. Seven had been studying her map again, inputting trajectories as well as the information Jraken had mentioned about the flow of civilization and the direction wild Pokemon would move. Jraken approached the boy; "Good evening! I hope I'm not interrupting anything. You were at Professor Petros lab earlier, correct?" Jraken tips his dusty old hat; "Tha names Jraken Tregres and I'm doing a study of the flora and fauna of the region." Jraken places a hand on Sevens head, interrupting her work. "And this is Bob." Jraken was immediately jabbed in the temple by the Delphoxs stick. "Ooch... I mean, 'Seven'." The Delphox returns to her work as Jraken rubs his sore head. "I was wondering, have either of you caught any Pokemon from the area? I'm interested in documenting their physical health before it changes too much."

While the boy searched for his Pokeball to release the male Nidoran within he never takes his eyes off Seven. She could tell he was sizing up the competition, but she cared not for conflict and made it clear she was trying to ignore him. Jraken places his hand on her shoulder; "Really gotta work on your people skills partner." Seven angrily shrugs Jrakens hand away before stepping behind him to continue her map work. Jraken apologizes for her actions before conducting the examination.

Jraken studied the Nidoran, taking account of its color, weight and posture. He gently tapped the tip of the spines along its back and the horn on its head. He tilted the nose up a bit to check its teeth and how well kept its claws were. He felt the thickness of the ears, the rubbing motion causing the little Nidoran to pat its foot a bit. Jraken chuckled; "Well, things certainly seem calm here. Your a pudgy little guy, aren't ya? Good diet and enough course gravel to maintain healthy digging utility." Jraken jots the notes in his leather notepad, taping in a quick printed photo for easy reference later. Seven had wondered to the market, purchasing supplies for the trip. Conventional medicines, dried meats and fruits. She bought several canned foods, unsure when the next time this opportunity would arise. The store clerk thought it strange for the Delphox to be shopping, but didn't press the issue.

Before leaving town Jraken went over the camping supplies in his travel pack. He was so used to being alone in his wilderness studies that he wasn't sure how prepared Seven was for sleeping outside. He knew she'd been trained by the R.S. institute who'd contacted him, but wasn't sure the extent of her training. In order to avoid disturbing the surroundings Jraken would use a hammock at night, tied to the middle branches of tall trees so that his scent wouldn't call the attention of animals or Pokemon. He wasn't sure how well Seven could handle a hammock, remembering the times he'd awoke on the ground with a splitting headache, so he'd packed a lite tent frame and a leaf camo cover. Among the supplies were glow sticks, shakably rechargeable flashlights, a modified CB radio and two flare guns. The CB radio looks as if it had been taken from a vehicle, cased and adjusted to run on batteries.

With groceries in hand Seven made her way to the outskirts of town to meet with Jraken. She'd been reading over a tabloid in a recent newspaper about the creature reported to be wondering this region. No clear photos were available and the description varies, but the most common report is that it is a white furred creature, most likely a Pokemon, that is bipedal. Some reports say the creature seems docile, but attacks randomly and ruthlessly. Others claim that the grass where the creature walks changes color, a photo shown of a trail of lighter colored grass and a second where a tree was effected by the discoloration.

Before reuniting with Jraken Seven stops, checks to see no one was around, then sets the groceries down. She makes sure her collar was clear of fur, presses a few buttons with the newspaper headline before her, then the collar flashes a light. The bright light was from a camera built into her collar. After, the blinking light quickened, signaling communication with her unknown third party.

 

[PiccoloX]

Jraken and Seven had been on the road for about an hour now. Jraken was looking over one of his paper maps to get a layout of the known region. With the sun going down Jraken held the flashlight with his teeth as they walked. The ocean around the island was noted, but the only information about the woodlands and mountain to the northwest were from satellite imagery. A drawing of the coastline in the corner of the map revealed how steep the cliff was at the edge of the beach, no doubt why so little of the northwest was documented.

Jraken spoke to Seven, but the flashlight mumbled his words. Folding the map and taking the flashlight from his mouth Jraken repeated; "There hasn't been thermal testing done on the mountain, but I bet you a Farfetch'd leek that the mountain is an old dormant volcano." Jraken folds the map and tucks it away in his vest. "It'll be the oldest point of the island, the height giving us a rough idea about how old the island is." Jraken scans over the trees, but can see no mountain yet. "We should check to see if anybodies scaled it yet. If not, well, then that'll get added to the bucket list." Jraken chuckled as Seven sighed wearily at the idea of such a task.

When the duo reached a bend in the road Seven continued to follow it, but Jraken trails off into the woods. Seven clears her throat to get Jrakens attention, but he continues to traverse the dense undergrowth. Jraken calls back; "You didn't think we were headin' to the next town, did you? Oh no! Time to get your campin' badge little missy!" Seven knew this was going to be a long trip, yet it somehow seems even longer now. Of all the scouts sent to this island how did she end up with 'Paul Bunyan'?

Later that night, after settling on a campsite and setting up base Jraken climbed the large neighboring tree to hang his hammock in. It was a sturdy bead-string with customized ties to 'hopefully' prevent flipping. Seven uses a simple tent propped against the tree with camouflaged colors and fake leaves adorning the outside. The tree had a wide base, the tent fitting between the curve of two large roots. Seven had a hard time getting comfortable, constantly finding some new debris jabbing her in the back over the period of half an hour. She'd wished she brought her own Pokeball for use during the night, Poke-cursing the human who'd long since began snoring in the tree above. Seven was convinced that Jrakens loud snoring practically defeated the purpose of trying to go unnoticed by the wildlife in half a mile radius.

After finally falling asleep Seven dreams of her training back at the institute. She saw a computer before her with a blinking green light similar to that of her collar. When she steps forward in the dark room and presses the button a light from the ceiling pops on to highlight a white furred creature beneath it. The creature faces away from Seven, standing still other than its heavy breathing. The creature was about her size, a bit bulkier and had a medium-sized, bushy tail and pointed ears. Its bristly, unkempt mane curved around its shoulders. A second light reveals a nearby room behind a glass window. Within the room a figure watches, human in shape yet its head appears to be an intercom. With electric voice the figure commands Seven to proceed. Seven slowly moves toward the creature, but stops as it suddenly lifts its head in noticing her presence. Its heavy breaths grow more ragged, distressed, as it slowly turns to face her. Looking around Seven notices more windowed rooms with identical, robotic-like beings surrounding and watching her. Looking back to the creature the first noticeable thing she sees of its face is the long, canine snout, baring its fangs as the breaths turn to growls. Seven began backing away slowly, but with a flash of red eyes the creature had turned to face her, lunging more quickly than she could react.

Seven awakens with a gasp at the sound of a loud thud. Turning to face the sound she sees Jraken, still asleep and lying on the ground. He must have fallen from his hammock, further illustrating the pointlessness of this suicidal sleeping contraption. Seven shrugged, throwing a clump of dirt to awaken Jraken before turning away in her tent to try and get back to sleep.


This was indeed going to be a long trip...

 

[PiccoloX]

Chapter II: Of Pokemon and Politics​

The night had been restless for the Delphox. Seven awoke with all manner of debris stuck in her fur and her back was sore from tossing and turning. Jraken was crouched over a small campfire with a pot of coffee brewing. He held an open umbrella over his head while he blew on the fire to increase the flames. Seven slid from under her tiny tent only for it to collapse the moment she was free. Shrugging sleepily she sat by the fire while trying to pick the litter from her fur.

Jraken hands her an empty cup, teasingly replying; "Mornin' Sunshine." It was apparent through Sevens expression that the two couldn't be anymore the opposite. The grinning human stood, drinking his coffee with the umbrella still held above him despite there being no rain and the sun wasn't bright enough through the forest overgrowth to be an issue. As Jraken pondered their next move Seven stood, cup in hand and still obviously uncomfortable after the rough night. She thought back to her dream, about the white furred pokemon and how aggressive it seemed. Jraken chuckles at the grumpy looking Delphox. "Bad night?" he comments, receiving an agitated grunt in reply. "You need to lighten up, embrace the morning with renewed vigor!" Jraken holds his cup high in praise to the sun. Seven... Not so much. Jraken laughs loud, a bit exaggerated as he comments; "Marvel at the joy of nature!" Just as he said this rain began to downpour, soaking the unsuspecting Seven. Without missing the natural punchline, Jraken continued; "Even if mother nature has a cruel sense of humor!" The unamused Delphox flings water in Jrakens face, digging through his backpack for the other umbrella and something to dry off with. It was obvious to her the human knew it was about to rain yet chose to say nothing. His constant teasing humor irritated her. No other human at the institute acted this way, a reminder of how little she was prepared for this outside world. If this was how someone so highly respected by the institute for his credible field work acted then how do disrespectable humans act?

Gathering their belongings the odd couple head toward New Beginings on their way North. Jraken wished to meet with the gym leader to get a better understanding of the of the tournament, the other gym leaders and where the ladder to the top ends. He wasn't here to compete, but the information would help his research. Hours pass as the two trekked through the on again, off again showers of the coastal climate Jraken and Seven finally make it through the forest to the town of New Beginnings. It had taken all morning, but it seems as if the rain had finally passed. Jraken had talked about weather patterns the whole trip, but Seven managed to tune out most of it. Soggy, messy and tired, the Delphox cared not for this climate or the chattering human. When it seemed as though Jraken finally ran out of things to say Seven looks about to see that he'd left her alone. He'd ran down the street to what appeared to be a market.

As Seven hurried to catch up Jraken began questioning the attendant of a fish cart about where he'd obtained his goods. As Jraken suspected the goods were delivered from Awekhan. The attendant received part of the shipment going to the next town, Onyxpac, to the northeast. "Do you have any merchandise shipped toward Awekhan?" Jraken asked, looking over the quality of the fish. The attendant replies; "Nah, I mostly deal in seafood. If you're lookin' fer freshwater fish from the northeast you'd best check one of the other stalls 'round hea."

Jraken waves down a winded Seven who was dumbfounded by how far Jraken traveled in such a short amount of time. As the two left the marked Jraken commented; "From what I can tell there's no coastal shipments other than from Awekhan. This means the roads inland must only stretch from one point if the island to the other. I bet expansion hasn't reached along the southern coastline yet, at least not enough for reliable trade between the neighboring costal points." Jraken places a hand atop Sevens head, laughing; "Hope ya liked the accommodations last night 'cause we're gonna see a whole lotta wilderness!" This news wasn't pleasing in the least and Seven knew the human knew and was still only poking fun at her miserable expense.

Jraken stops before the gym, but it seemed closed. The doors were locked and a notice from the gym leader, Ellem, stated that he would be away for a while and that any trainer seeking his badge must face his son, Ellem Jr. This was disappointing as Jraken had hoped to speak to the gym leader of the other leaders and doubted his son would be privy to the government behind the tournament. Still, this Ellem Jr. might have some information worth noting. Jraken and Seven made their way to Ellem Jr.'s school and asked the lady at the front desk which class Ellem was in. He'd been given the room number 003 and made his way down the hall.


As Jraken passed the other rooms he noticed the children getting younger until he unfortunately arrived at room 003. Jrakens jaw drops in shock at the realization that;

"The attending gym leader is in the third grade?!?!?"

 

[PiccoloX]

Jraken waited in the hall pondering why a gym leader would leave their gym in the hands of a child. There had to have been better alternatives. He thought; "Perhaps the kid just knows his stuff? Maybe this gym has a hidden meaning for this kinda matchup?" Looking back through the door window Jraken commented to Seven; "Bah, I doubt we'll be getting any information. Kids probably still learnin' to make his grammar good." As he turned to walk away the recess bell rings, prompting a herd of children to spill from the door between he and Seven. Though the children were obviously in a hurry to get outside none could resist not stopping to pull on Sevens fur. Half the group hung around, surrounding Seven. Jraken couldn't help but chuckle at her plight. Since he obviously had time to wait for the pack to leave Seven alone he spoke to the teacher about which student was Ellem Jr. and was directed to the swing set in the playground.

Jraken sees Ellem swinging by himself, a tiny child with short shaved hair, blue teeshirt, pocket shorts and a pair of sneakers that looked a bit too big for his feet. By now Seven had managed to exit the building to the playground only to be crowded by a second wave of children wanting to pet the Delphox. Jraken approached Ellem, stating; "Ellem Jr. I presume?" The child doesn't say anything, looking up at Jraken shyly. Jraken tips his hat; "Tha name's Tergres, Jraken Tergres. I was passin' through wantin' to have a word with yer dad about the league tournament."

Seven finally pulls away from the crowd and catches up to Jraken. Upon seeing the Pokemon the child hops off the swing, walks to pick up his backpack near a pole and steps away from from the swing set. The other children back away, forming a circle around the area. Ellem sets the backpack on the ground and pulls out a mask made from an old black tie with eye holes cut into it and an off-color blue towel he ties around his neck like a cape. The otherwise silent kid then burst into character; "Evil doers fear, the champion of justice is here!" After this statement a Charmander, Squirtle and Bulbasour all pop out from pokeballs within Ellems backpack and strike a matching action pose with the child. It occurred to Jraken a huge mistake had been made, but how was he gonna talk his way outta this one?

Jraken holds his hands up trying to settle the excited child. "Look, kid, I'm not here to..." Ellem cuts him off; "Your tricks won't work on me, villigan!" Jraken replied; "Villigan? I don't know who... Do you mean 'villain'?" Ellem shouts; "Thats what... I mean, don't change the subject val-e-an!" Jraken continues; "Look, I don't know what..." Jraken points out the childs outfit; "... 'this' is all about, but..." Ellem cuts him off again; "You adress Capin' Eleman and the ( one... two... ) THREE Elemans! Skittles the water eleman!" The Squirtle strikes a pose; "Bobbie the grass eleman!" The Bulbasour strikes a pose; "And Mandy, the fire eleman!" The {male who doesn't like his name} Charmander shrugs as HE strikes a pose. Jraken chimes in; "Do you mean 'element'?" - while thinking to himself; "Though, 'Eleman' is a pretty cool super hero name..." Ellem shouts; "Thats what I... I mean... Don't change the subject!"

Seven was unamused by the tiny gym leaders eagerness to battle. She wasn't here for some pointless fight. There were much higher stakes than these fools were suspect. Ellem pressed the issue; "Don't try any funny business val-e-an! If you want to get past me you have to battle for it!" Ellem strikes a pose and vocalizes a tune that Jraken assumed was meant as a guitar solo. With cheers from his classmates Jraken nudges Seven with his elbow; "Kid really knows how to work a crowd, right?" Ellem points to the Delphox, shouting; "All right Bobbie, you're..." Before Ellem could finish the command the Bulbasour shakes its head. Instead the Squirtle runs to the front and waves back to Ellem who replies; "I mean... Skittles! Go get'em!" Jraken scratches his bristly chin in thought, talking to himself; "Ah, now I think I get it. Seems the kids old man trained these little guys to train his son. Bulbasour woulda been a poor choice against Seven. Gotta say, this is a first for me."

The Squirtle performs another action pose in challenge, a spectacle that drew cheers from the children watching the event. Jraken thought this was adorable, but something about the setting seemed to piss Seven off. Something about being surrounded by watching eyes reminded her of the prior nightmare. Jraken noticed a change in Sevens mood, how she seemed more aggressive with the sounds of cheering. He didn't know how Seven was trained at the institute, figuring she'd just developed under scholarly teachings given her aptitude for understanding technology. With a show of teeth Seven steps forward, but Jraken removes his hat and hands it to her, halting her advancement.

Jraken then sets his backpack down and removes his vest. Rolling up his sleeves Jraken tells Seven; "Don't lose my hat, ya hear? It may look old and worn out, but its sturdy and reliable when I need to cool off." Jraken winks at Seven before stepping forward. The Squirtle was caught off guard by the humans actions as Jraken dug his heels into the dirt. The large human pops his neck as he braces himself; "Kid, I ain't one not to fight my own battles."

 

[PiccoloX]

Jraken widened his stance, bracing for support. The display to further emphasize his position in this battle. Having not fought a human the Squirtle was struck with unease. Ellem argued; "You're not doing it right! You're sposta send your Pokemon to the middle!" Jraken countered; "And who made up that rule? I'm sure whoever it was isn't here to correct me, are they?" Jraken looks around for a show of hands before assuming a combat pose. Seven, however, could tell by his stance that he was putting on a show. Either Jraken didn't know how to fight or he was intentionally leaving himself open.

Jraken continued; "To be fair I'm still technically using a Pokemon, see?" Jraken points his thumb over his shoulder to Seven; "The roles are just reversed. She tells me to attack, I attack." Seven knew that Jraken knew this wasn't an option, yet he persisted; "In case she doesn't say anything I'll assume she doesn't want me to attack, get it?" Ellem stomps his foot in frustration, yelling; "Fine! Skittles, use Water Gun!" The Squirtle turned to Ellem, waving his hands and clearly distressed over the situation. Ellem pressed the issue; "You heard him, if he wants to be the Pokemon then use Water Gun!" By this point Seven was trying to get Jrakens attention, that what he's doing was stupid and only served to feed the foolish childs ego. Jraken didn't budge, just stood there with the same dopy smirk he seems to always wear. Though the Squirtle wasn't sure what to do he turned in an attack pose. Bobbie called to Skittles, trying to get the Squirtle to end this while Mandy tried calming Ellem. Ellem continued the tantrum; "Water Gun now!" Seven glanced over the other children. While some continued to cheer the fight on others were no longer enjoying what they were seeing. Ellem came in strong with the persona of a super hero, but his actions now certainly didn't look the part. Seven was about to toss Jrakens hat down and end this show herself when the distressed Squirtle suddenly attacks.

Though Skittles tried to miss, swinging upward as he used Water Gun, his attack still hits Jraken in the face. Jraken leans back from the impact, but retains his footing. The cheering children fall silent from the act. Ellems attitude changed to shock when he saw the attack hit Jraken, the reality of the situation jolting him from his previous attitude. Seconds felt like minutes and Skittles calls to the reeled Jraken to see if he was ok. Jraken pulls himself forward, back to the previous stance he once held. As he grinned wide a tiny stream of water shoots toward the Squirtle from the gap of his front teeth. Jraken then laughs out loud, shouting; "Send yer Charmander in next! Looks like I just learned Water Gun!"

The children burst into laughter at the goofy antics. Even Ellem couldn't help but laugh at the sight of Jraken spitting a mouthful of Squirtles water back at him. Skittles, Bobbie, Mandy and even Seven could feel the tension abate. Ellem, partly relieved and partly effected by the humor of the crowd, tosses his hands up in a declaration of defeat. Ellem shouts over the talkative crowd of children; "Ok, ok, shut up you guys!" Ellem clears his throat before continuing over the growing silence; "I, the great Eleman - 't', commend you for your sportsmanship and yadda, yadda..." Ellem digs through his backpack to pull out an Element Badge; "... yadda, yadda. Anyway, here ya go." Jraken pats the boy on the head; "I told ya already, I'm not here for that. I'm just lookin' for information about the league."

It was hard for Seven to tell if Jraken was merely rolling with the punches or he'd never lost control of the situation. With a sigh of relief and frustration at the spectacle of humanity she just witnessed she turns to pick up Jrakens backpack. Though it seemed to have slipped her mind Seven notices she was still holding Jrakens hat in her hand. She'd dug her nails into it during the tension, causing several additional holes with her tightened grip. Though they were barely noticeable on the beat up old hat the symbolism of the act wasn't lost to her. Accept it or not she was actually concerned for the human. Whether it be from the tension in the air or the frustration from Jraken edging on the conflict the proof of the concern was in the palm of her hand.

 

[PiccoloX]

After speaking to Ellem Jr. the boy contacts the caretaker of the gym. Jraken and Seven make their way back to the gym to meet the caretaker, an older man, a janitor it seemed based on his apparel. After some brief introduction and an escort to Ellems study Jraken asked if the caretaker knew what was going on and if he had any information about the other gyms. He replied; "Well, ol' Ellem and that doctor from Breakpoint, another gym leader ya see. Feller by the name of Chologia. Eh, Dr. Chologia. First name is Kai... Rai... or somethin'. They done got themselves into some hot water if ya ask me. Been sent out to hunt for some critter, the one in the news papers. Th'say it's been tearin' up peoples property, huntin' livestock and probably scarin' the glory outta many a trainer. Bet its gobbled up a witness or two."

Jraken checked over a map that pointed out several sighting locations. Pointing from one location to the next Jraken notes to Seven; "This thing their after, its been all over the place. Doesn't look like a migratory pattern to me, not following any known water sources, ya see? There may be more than one, but from the looks of these timeframes it's possible that whatever their after is alone. Possibly a foreign Pokemon lost in this echo system." Jraken notes the apparent flow of movement; "Looks to be traveling in one direction. These sightings are pretty far apart time-wise, even for the distance it's traveled. Doesn't look like its in any hurry to get to wherever its going." Jraken points to a blank location on the map; "If the evidence holds I bet Ellem and Dr. Chologia are in >this< area here." Jraken glances over the shelves of old literature filling the adventurous room. "Man, I'd love to stick around and check out this work, but we should head out as soon as possible. I want to see what this thing is, possibly a new species with how little is known of it."

Jraken heads out, resisting the temptation of stashing a few books in his bag. Seven looks over the map and places a finger upon the location the two were heading to meet the creature. She moves the fur from her collar to take a picture of the map. After, she presses the buttons along her collar to communicate with her unknown source. As she exits the building she finds Officer Jenny standing before Jraken. Jraken was surprised, sure he'd not done anything to warrant an... ~another~ arrest. Jenny continued; "Jraken Tregros, you and your Delphox are coming with me!"

OOC: This is the last post from the RP in which this story formed. Further posts will be new content.

 

[PiccoloX]

Jraken and Seven were lead by Jenny to a cab parked at the corner of the street. Jraken commented; "Not that I'm complaining, but shouldn't I be in handcuffs?" Jenny opened the cab door for Jraken, replying with a disgruntled sigh; "No, I'm not arresting you because I'm not some inept cop like my idiot sisters!" As Jraken sat in the back of the cab he apprized; "Well soooory, didn't mean to hit your button. Its just... well, 'expected', ya know what I mean?" Jenny closes the door after Seven enters, sitting in the middle of the two humans. Jenny replies, still touchy of the subject; "It's ok, I just really don't like being compared to those embarrassments. They chose the job because it was easy, didn't need beyond a highschool education and doesn't require actual deductive reasoning. They're all faces for the Peace Force to better relate to people, but nothing more." Jenny folds her arms in heated aggravation; "Jokes is all they will ever be." Jraken tries to shift the subject before Jenny talks his ear off; "So, eh, what do -you- do?"

Jenny replies; "I'm a pilot. The reason you two are needed is because that during a training flight for a rookie we came across a downed plane." Jenny passes a file with photos of the crash site to Jraken. As Jraken examines the contents Jenny continues; "I'm unsure what company this aircraft belongs to. There are no records of planes passing over this hillside." Jraken examines the photo of the markings on the side of the plane, but it looks as if something distorted the metal. It wasn't torn or melted by the looks of the damage and it seemed impossible for the metal to have been bent in such a manner. Jenny points the direction; "The region of the crash is to the northwest. No planes fly over there due to the mountain range. The aircraft must have been heading toward a nearby location. We're going over our records to see if we can find anything, but we've got nothing yet. There are a few small islands not far from here, but none have aircraft clearance."

Jenny hands a recorder to Jraken; "While investigating the flight we found this recording device. When we tried to play it back we were contacted instead, a radio transmitter built into the device. We were told to find you and your Delphox and bring you to the crash site." Jraken flipped the logo photo to its side to see if he could better make it out, replying; "Sounds pretty damn secretive." Jraken thought this could be related to the R.S. for them to call him in like this, but wasn't sure he should mention this to Jenny. He places the photo back into the file and looks to Jenny; "Any idea what caused the metal to bend in this manner?" Jenny closes the folder, replying; "Nothing that I've seen before. I thought it could be psychic damage, but I keep a Sigilyph with me to help predict wind currents and he couldn't sense any psychic manipulation. Though, something did freak him out about the scene." Jraken craned his neck to see around Seven, "Something seem off to'em?" Jenny replied with a concerned look; "Yeah. Started to shake. He didn't seem afraid, more like he was just very 'on-edge' about the crash site."

After traveling several miles out of town the cab pulls to a helipad in a clearing of trees. The helipad was close to the ground with ramps, no doubt used as a medical transport given how spread the roads are between points of interest. Jraken asks; "You a medical pilot?" Jenny replies; "Sometimes, though I mostly work with the rangers and mail delivery." Jenny walks the duo to the running plane, raising her voice to communicate as Jraken and Seven strap in; "My orders are to bring you to the crash site. I don't know how long you're going to be there, but I can take you to any port on the island after. Until then, strap in and hold on. The winds will be a bit choppy this time of year."

Once Jenny took the controls the helicopter took to the air with a quick takeoff. Jraken was used to riding in a helicopter, but even he wasn't prepared for Jenny's rough piloting. Seven, though not used to such transportation, was lost in thought over the reports of the crash site. While Jraken was busy clenching ~everything~ Seven had used her collar to communicate with her unknown benefactor.

 

[PiccoloX]

Several miles from Jraken and Sevens destination two intrepid gym leaders guide a small group of colleagues in the hunt for the mysterious creature that had been roaming the jungles and fields of Vallen. Their destination, a converging point in an open hillside where they anticipate the creature to wonder. Manning the radio was a portly man in his late fifties. The man was quite round with a large, grey mustache which hung well bellow his non-existent neckline and dressed in an attire befitting famous novel explorers. Beige spherical hat, belted vest and short pants was not a fitting look for this jolly man, but he embraced the role with the nerditude of the teenage fanboy. This was none other than Ellems father, Ellem Sr. Those who knew him understood his sons obsession with dressing up as a hero to stem from his fathers love of 'dressing the part'. For example, his Gym Leader persona happens to be that of a professional wrestler. This is also where his Pokemon, Skittles, Bobby and Mand(er), learned their fighting poses. For this excursion he's brought the assistance of his Eevee, 'Ion'.

Assigned by the league to work with Ellem is his old friend and fellow Gym Leader, Dr. Zai Chologia. While Ellem was brought in to identify what type this creature might be Dr. Chologia is an expert at Pokemon psychology. He's here to identify any behavioral patterns of the creature before the group is to proceed in capturing it. Unlike his old friend Dr. Chologia never seems to be in the best of moods. His otherwise handsome features are often hidden behind cigaret smoke and a seemingly permanent scowl. A man in his late thirties, his hair is black and neatly trimmed and his face was stubbled from lack of a proper shave since the excursion began. He wore reading glasses and is normally seen in a lab coat, but for the purposes of this mission he'd dressed more casually with a dark brown bubble jacket and jeans. He'd brought three Pokemon on this venture with the intent of testing the creatures reaction to specific stimuli. A Ditto to copy the creatures appearance, Musharna to put the creature to sleep and see into its mind and a Mr. Mime for barrier expertise.

While Ellems gym is intended to simply pit opponents against the elements Dr. Chologia has earned the reputation as the hardest opponent for any trainer to face. It doesn't matter how strong the trainers Pokemon are if the trainer themselves weren't stalwart enough to face him. The league is unsure wether to keep him as a Gym Leader or to omit his badge requirement due to the extreme torment suffered by the only trainer to obtain his badge. The trainer in question released all but four of their Pokemon and has yet to obtain more. This trainer, though limited by this action went on to become the League Champion of Vallen. It is for this alone that Dr. Chologia remains a part of the league.

 

[PiccoloX]

Beneath the shade of a radio tent the static and garbled communication between two scanning helicopter can be heard. Ellem manned the transmitter in hopes of finding something out about the creature, but the trail scanned from the air runs through a dense jungle. Due to the discoloration seen in the grass the choppers can identify where its been while scanning through the trees, though have yet to confirm a sighting. Wherever this creature travels there are random moments where the green in the grass and leaves of trees brighten to a lime-green color. The various hues of tree bark show the same lighter discoloration. Studies have been done with the organic material, but no conclusive evidence that there has been any biological changes.

Ellem grows restless, spinning in his swivel chair as he boisterously calls over the radio; "Egads man, have you seen it yet? By the time it reaches us I fear to die of old age!" While he normally doesn't do this he felt inclined to end the call with a "Harrumph!", to further immerse himself in the role he dressed for. Dr. Chologia stood at the edge of the nearby hill, smoking in his patience. He awaited to clearly view the creature for himself. It was he who suggested the camp location based on his opinion of the creatures movement patterns. The hill was high above the edge of the jungle, allowing a clear view of the creature as well as keeping the group far enough away to not appear threatening. Few have seen the creature and what little is known of it would be the bizarre trail it leaves. They knew not how dangerous this creature may be nor if it could even be classified as a Pokemon or perhaps even a Legendary. Nothing of the known Pokemon have shown such an odd characteristic and the effects are too fantastic to be a mere animal. While Ellems enthusiasm might trump his patience Dr. Chologia knew this would be a waiting game. He'd instructed no interaction with the creature until some identification is made with scanner loaned to the party by the Pokemon Rangers. It worked similar to a Pokedex, but the range is extended and if this is a new Pokemon it could identify what known Pokemon this new breed might be related to.

Chatter barked over the radio, the helicopters now in Dr. Chologias sight. The scanners aboard both helicopters were going haywire. One confirmed a visual of a white creature below the trees, but the on-board camera couldn't focus on it. The chatter over the radio became garbled, Ellem replying; "Eh, what? You saw it? Repeat man, did you see it?" Ellem continued to try the radio to no avail. Dr. Chologia noticed the tips of the trees beginning to change color. It seemed this creature either had no control over these reactions or that they might serve an unknown purpose to the creatures physiology. Dr. Chologia calls to Ellems attention, getting him to shut down the radio and hurry to his side. Dr. Chologia tried to call the crew below who had been clearing a path through the hill but his short range radio was malfunctioning as well. Luckily, the crew could see him waving to call them back.

As the crew fell back all went silent. If the creature follows the man made path through the hill it would give Ellem and Dr. Chologia a better chance at identifying the creature before proceeding. Though all remained quiet there was a tension in the air as the creature emerged from the trees. Ellem focused his binoculars in hushed astonishment, whispering to Dr. Chologia; "Do... Do you see that? It can't be... Is that... Is that a white Zoroark?"

 

[PiccoloX]

Chapter III: Once Upon A Time​

"Subject 7, step forward. To your left and right are buttons I want you to press to answer the following questions. To your right the answer is 'YES', and to your left the answer is 'NO'. Take your time and answer each question honestly. When you are ready hold your hands above the buttons and we will begin..."

It was a warm early morning, the first day of Summer for an anxious young trainer ready to tackle the world. With a burst of energy from his otherwise dead sleep the boy of average hight and build bounds from his bed. He runs to the bathroom, stepping on several small toy cars and bumping into his dad whilst he read the newspaper walking the hall to wake his son. The dad lifts his paper to see his son scrambling around his side; "Whoa there champ, collateral damage walkin' here. Whats the rush?" he asked as the kid ran to the mirror to brush his teeth and black bedhead hair at the same time. The kid replied, but was unable to form words with the toothpaste in his mouth. Nevertheless, the father laughed in knowing full well what had his son so excited. Professor Petro had been given a few unique Pokemon and 'Zee', the boy whose rushed morning routines amused his dad enough that he had to put the paper down to keep track of his sons activities. Before his son could tie his shoes his dad had to remind him; "Wrong foot there buddy." Before his son could zip his backpack his dad reminded him; "Don't forget your coat." Before his son could get out the door; "Don't forget to say bye to your mother." Before the boy left the residence he stops at a tree in the yard with a wreath of flowers hung to it. He bowed his head and said; "Todays the day I get my first Pokemon, mom. Wish me luck!" Before the boy left his dads sight he calls out; "Don't forget to have a good time!" The boy waves back before leaving his dads sight and headed towards Petros research facility.

Along the way a portly kid with glasses pedaled his bike to the top of a hill. Without warning Zee hops on the back of the portly child, causing them to careen downhill at a fevered pace. Zee cheers as the panicked bike owner tries to regain control and avoid hitting several trashcans along the street. After reaching a steady pace along the flat street the portly kid replies; "Jese Zee, you coulda killed us!" Zee, standing upon the stunt bars of the bike, replied; "Come on Ellem, you gotta expect the unexpected! Today, we become trainers, buddy!" Ellem, now as excited as Zee, pedals even harder with a cheer to pick up speed. Within minutes the boys arrive at Petros Research Facility, practically exploding with anticipation.

Such behavior was not uncommon from these two. During the weekends they'd hang out at the facility so much Petro began to wonder if he owed them paychecks.

"Do you understand the use of the buttons?"

*YES*

"Good. Now, can you tell me your name?"

*YES*

"Good. Will you tell me your name?"

....

"Subject 7, will you tell me your name? Feel free to speak the answers should they not be in the form of a 'YES' or 'NO' question."

Delph...
(collar shocks)

 

[PiccoloX]

"Do you know why you were shocked?"

*NO*
(collar shocks)

"Do you know why you are here?"

....

"Subject 7, do you know why you are here?"

....

"Subject 7..."

*NO*
(collar shocks)

Ellem checks behind large rocks in the craggy valley, calling; "Zee! Zee! Where are you?" Zee heard Ellem calling, yet chose to remain hidden in the shade of a large rock. He sat, staring at his Pokeball, saddened by what he'd seen earlier. It's not what he expected, to have seen the trainer who just beat him push his Pokemon the way he did. It was sickening...

Zee held out his Pokeball, releasing his Pokemon. Ellem noticed the flash of light from behind the rock and ran to check it out. When he got there he saw Zees Pokemon, a Sawsbuck, staggering a bit as its broken leg hindered its steadiness. Ellem looks to Zee, asking; "You OK? I couldn't keep up when you ran down here." Zee said nothing, still sitting. Ellem sat down beside him and looked up at the Sawsbuck. Ellem looked down at his Pokeball; "Look dude, these things happen. You said to expect the unexpected, right?" Zee remained silent, Ellem continuing; "Still... I don't think either of us were ready for 'THAT'. Its like that dude didn't even care, that all that mattered was winning..." Zee stands suddenly and places his hand on the Sawsbucks nose. The once cheery boy now wore a hardened face, something deeper than mere hatred could put to words.

Ellem picked himself up, still worried about Zee. Zee remained motionless, a cold stair in his eyes as he looked to the Sawsbucks broken leg. Ellem placed his hand on Zees shoulder; "Look, it'll be OK. We'll go get the police, 'kay? Maybe they can help..." Still, Zee remained motionless. Ellem shakes his shoulder; "Zee, c'mon! Snap out of it! Zee! ... Zee! ... Zai, wake up!" Zai pulls his hand from the Sawsbucks nose and held out his Pokeball to return his Pokemon.

With an empty voice Zai calls to his Sawsbuck; "Ditto, return!"

"Subject 7, our records of the incident state that you attacked Subject 9, is this correct?"

...

*YES*

"During the confrontation the wounds proved quite deadly. Is it true you bit Subject 9 multiple times?"

*YES*

"Will you tell me why you attacked Subject 9?"

....

...

Delph...
(collar shocks)

 

[PiccoloX]

"During the conflict Subject 8 was nearby, correct?"

*YES*

"Did Subject 8 participate in the conflict?"

*NO*
(collar shocks)

"Did Subject 8 participate?

*NO*
(collar shocks)

"Subject 7, did Subject 8..."

*NO*
(collar shocks)

*NO*
(collar shocks)

*NO*
(collar shocks)

Several years ago, outside the fenced walls of a suspected animal testing facility, an animal rights movement picketed in protest. The facility was located between Viridian City and Route 17 in the Kanto region, tucked away within the dense forrest. Though the facility wasn't near a habited area the picketers managed to get the attention of the Viridian News Team beforehand. With the backing of the news coverage the picketers began their protest, bringing the actions of the suspected testing facility to light in the eyes of the public. Or, at least that is how it would appear to be.

The truth would require more than suspicion and publicity, the protesters would need evidence. Though the group would appear to be random people brought together under a common cause the truth was obscured in supposed anonymity. This group had been in touch for years and has brought the attention of animal and Pokemon cruelty through active means of espionage and industrial terrorism, united under the banner 'Dogs of Freedom'. The group is believed to have originated in Unova, though the incidents of that regions Pokemon rights movement are but one of the more recent actions taken by a sect of the Dogs of Freedom. The founder and chief operatives of the groups intel remain unknown, but to the older members it's known to have originated in somewhere in Kanto.

The time was early afternoon. With the picketers and news broadcast drawing the attention of the facility a small group goes over blueprints before sneaking into the building. They wore black, hooded clothes and gas masks. They'd located a blind spot to cut the fence, away from the security cameras. With a radio signal from the stealth group the picketers become more violent, calling the attention of the guards while the group manages to reach a side door to the facility. It wasn't meant to take long due to the layout of the building plans. Once through the door there was a utility storage with ventilation access that the group would use to enter what they suspected to be a medical area, which is where any illegal testing of animals or Pokemon would most likely take place due to the quarantine access. Though, to say they 'suspected' illegal activity would undermine the intel which has yet failed to steer them wrong.

The picketers began lighting sparklers and setting off fireworks, an act to their protest to mask the noise of the small charge explosive the strike group used to blow the door handle. By their side was a Magnemite which used its magnetic attributes to keep the alarm around the door frozen. As the plans detailed the storage room was along the hall. The Magnemite notices and zaps a security camera in the hall. The act would no doubt draw guards to the location, but may mask the groups use of the storage room vents. To aid in the illusion a separate group would play the decoy further down the halls. This plan was devised by the raid leader, 'Alpha', who'd trained the Magnemite to quickly recognize and disable the security systems. The separate group taking the vents was lead by the second in command of the operation, 'Beta', who's experience in the medical field would allow her to quickly identify signs of coverups that others would probably miss.

The Magnemite remained with Alphas group as they pushed through the halls. They were armed with police quality beanbag guns to disable most opposition. They were to head towards the control room. Should they acquire it the possibility of video evidence would aid their case, but the goal of decoy remained top priority. Pushing further Alphas group disabled several security personnel, but the further they got the greater the opposition became. Forces who were once dressed as security guards are replaced by SWAT gear who were obviously much more prepared to deal with Alphas squad. One of the masked members calls to Alpha; "I guess our intel was good! These guys are ready for war!" Alpha, a larger man, took to a corner, taking shots when he could. Unlike the invaders the guards were using live ammunition. The guard forces call on a Seviper who quickly darts back and forth through the hall under the hail of fire. The Magnemite pops out from behind the corner to zap and paralyze the snake, but is hit by a stray bullet. Being a steel type the damage was minimal, but the impact caused it to lose its senses and fall. Alpha reaches out to catch it, falling back behind the corner of the hallway.

Meanwhile, Beta leads her group through the vents. She reaches the medical facility, a dark, seemingly empty room with lab tables, dimmed positional lights and medical tools. Upon exiting the vent a bar slides behind her, sealing the vent and cutting her off from the rest of her group. She calls to them with a hushed voice; "Head back to the exit. The facility is probably on lockdown." Beta holds up her phone; "If I find something I'll report it." The group member at the vent replies; "I think I can cut through the bars." Beta calls back; "No! There is probably an alarm on the bars. Head back and cut them there, they might think we haven't reached the medical room yet. I'll keep quiet and out of sight, you go and distract them!"

*NO*
(collar shocks)

"That is enough!"

*NO*
(collar shocks)

*NO*
(collar shocks)

"Moving on! Did you protect Subject 8?"

...

...

"Subject 7..."

*YES*

 

[PiccoloX]

"Perhaps we should move on to another subject. I have here a detailed record of your past misconducts. You seem rather close to Subject 8. Would this be an accurate assessment?"

...

"No... No need to answer. I already know the truth."

... ?

"Yes, I've known for quite some time."

(the lights from the speakers room click off followed the sound of a door opening)

(Subject 7 tries to stand, but shackles appear, pinning her hands to both buttons)

(by pressing both buttons two glowing screens appear, a green YES and a red NO)

Beta ducked behind a table in the corner. The room was dark, but just lit enough that she could see the security camera in the far corner of the room. She reached into her side pocket to retrieve a small, laser pointer modified from a lasik surgery beam. Retrofitted to be a bit stronger than desired she pointed it at the lens of the camera, causing any video obtained to be too dark to see. Hopefully, with the already dark room this would buy her some time. She opens a small case strapped to her vest containing a pair of sterile gloves. After a few quick photos of the rooms layout she puts the gloves on and starts putting surgical tools from the room in small bags to test later. The tools looked clean, but any evidence could help their case. The tools used, the layout of the room, would require a specific license to utilize. To Betas knowledge this facility claimed to study fault lines and monitor seismic activity, but then why the need for such an elaborate medical facility?

Along the halls Alpha could no longer push the assault forward. The security had become more than the group could handle, opting to stand their ground to better buy Beta time to get the information she needed. Static over the radio was that the police had arrived and the "protesters" were trying to hold them off, still posing as mere concerned citizens assuming the police were there to stop their protest. Alphas attention to the radio was cut by the sound of clanging metal. Coming toward the group was a Rhyperior, the beanbag guns doing nothing to slow it down. One of the assault team calls out "Cover me!" before running toward the incoming Rhyperior. As it swings the assault member slides under the large Pokemon, a customized EMP grenade in hand. Before ducking behind a corner he tosses the grenade to the front of the defense, the burst of light disabling all Pokeballs in the vicinity of the blast. Though the grenade wasn't designed to harm organic material the Rhyperior, who'd turned to chase the assault member that eluded its attack, was now unshackled by the mental manipulation of the Pokeball. Though the Rhyperior still remembered his time serving under the defense it's sudden loss of controlled foresight was overwhelming, causing it to continue the charge and attack anything in its path. The defense clustered in adjacent hallways and fell back. The EMP had released several other Pokemon. Though those released didn't pose a threat it meant the defense was essentially defenseless. The released Pokemon fled the rampaging Rhyperior, no longer compelled to follow their masters orders.

The assault member who threw the EMP shouts; "Now ~THATS~ how you get things done!" Alpha, however, rushed forward to keep track of the Rhyperior. It was raged, confused and would most likely hurt someone or itself. The assault pushed toward the security center, two following Alpha. Turning the corner Alpha found himself in a large room, a juncture between hallways which used to be an information center from before the time this new company took over. The Rhyperior had already thrashed the room, the ceiling lights flickering to reveal the extent of the damage. The Rhyperior was banging on a steel door leading to a small room where several of the defense had fled to. Alpha could hear the shouting within and knew the mangled wouldn't hold against the Rhyperiors onslaught for long. Grabbing a nearby trashcan he hurls it at the Rhyperior, flailing his arms about in taunt. The Rhyperior accepts the challenge, abandoning it's prior targets. With the beast out of the way the two associates whom followed Alpha pry the dented door open, beanbag guns ready to order the guards within to flee.

Alphas distraction worked a bit too well, the focus of the Rhyperiors rage in all its pissed off glory. Despite the creatures bulk it was surprisingly fast, cornering Alpha at the dead end of a random hallway. With his back to the wall Alpha waited for an opening from the swiftly approaching behemoth. As the Rhyperior dove head-first toward him Alpha managed to dodge the attack and attempt to flee, but the club-like tail trips him. The Rhyperior spins around with a swing of its stony fist, but Alpha is able to grab a nearby steel bench and slide it between him and the impact. The bench bent like tinfoil, reduced to ineffectiveness with the second blow of the other fist.

"No no, no need to stand on my account."

(Subject 7 tries to breath fire from her mouth, but the sound of a humming chime caused electricity to jolt through her body)

"Yes, Subject 7... I know the truth. Do you wish to know the truth?"

(the speaking figure walks just enough into the spotlight to reveal a tuning fork, another strike of which produces another electrical shock)

"The truth, Subject 7, is that I am going to break you..."

 

[PiccoloX]

"The 'incident' with Subject 9 is but one of several instances of feral aggression. I've seen this effect in the others, but none more than you."

(Subject 7 struggles against her bindings)

"I am well aware of what you are, of what you're becoming, but are you? Tell me, Subject 7. What 'are' you?

(continues to struggle)

...

Delphox...
(with the hum of the tuning fork the power of the next electrical punishment was raised, causing Subject 7 to scream)

"No! You are not! You, Subject 7, are an abomination!"

(Subject 7 is shocked several times in succession, the human chiming in with the tuning fork each time)

The Rhyperior knocks aside the bench Alpha used to guard against its attacks, leaving the human defenseless. As the Rhyperior reeled back for an attack it is struck in the head by the Magnamite. The force of the impact dazed the much smaller Pokemon, calling the attention of the Rhyperior. As the Rhyperior reached for the Magnamite Alpha leans back, kicking the Magnamite away. The act caused the Rhyperior to grab his leg, the human seemingly weightless in the large Pokemons grip.

Oblivious to the happenings outside Beta managed to hack the computer terminal. The act would alert personnel to her presence, but she felt she'd obtained all the evidence she could from the medical facility. The terminal could hold records of patients and procedures. She wouldn't have time to sift through the information here, so she downloaded what she could. The process would take a moment, so she'd began barricading the door. After sliding a heavy steel table in the way and stacking it with chairs she backed away, beanbag gun drawn. She remained quiet as the terminal continued the upload process, the sound of a small rustling catching her attention. Following the noise to a display case she finds several vials of liquid, one of which was twitching just enough to ting against another.

With the humans leg firmly in grasp the Rhyperior flings Alpha against a wall, knocking the wind out of him. He holds his chest tightly, certain he'd broken a rib from the impact. As the Rhyperior walked toward the downed human the Magnamite buzzed back in, trying to shock the behemoth to no avail. After swinging and mussing several times the Rhyperior finally hits the Magnamite, knocking it to the ground with a bounce. The small Pokemon remained motionless, metal bits broken from its dented body. The Rhyperior prepared to finish it with a stomp, but Alph manages to reach for it to knock it away. However, the humans arm is crushed below the weight of the large Pokemons foot, causing him to cry out in pain and almost black out. His vision blurred, still able to make out the silhouette of the Rhyperior standing above him. Through his muffled hearing his fading attention was drawn to a human in a white lab coat. The newcomer called to the Rhyperior, causing it to aggressively approach him. Though this would be the last he'd see of the conflict he remembers a low, yet still audible humming tone.

"Fourteen years ago, I was there. I saw the unidentified monster with my own eyes."

(the human grabs Subject 7 by the the sides of her face, leaning in to reveal a face concealed by a gas mask)

"I can still see you, in 'there'. Hiding from the world, changing. Monster..."

(Subject 7's mouth glows with an impending fire attack, but the human slaps her before chiming in with the tuning fork and electrocuting her)

"I already know what you are, Subject 7. Tell me, who do you believe you are? You are not a Delphox! You aren't even a Pokemon!"

Alpha awakens, kneeling alongside several other members of the assault force. Pacing before them was a man in a neatly pressed, grey suit. He seemed to be the one in charge of the defense of the facility, the guards holding the prisoners at gunpoint. As Alphas hearing cleared he heard an ongoing argument between the man and Beta, who was among those being interrogated. Though Alphas hands weren't tied like the others the sharp pains reminded him that his arm was very much broken.

Beta yelled at the man whom maintained his composure as he examined the contents of Betas backpack, handing the moving vial of liquid to a much younger man in a white lab coat. Beta, infuriated that she wasn't able to secure the evidence before capture, berated this obvious cover up. "You can't just sweep this under the rug!" As the man in the lab coat walks away with the vial Beta tries to stand, but one of the guards grabs her by the shoulder and forces her back on her knees. She continues; "We know you were experimenting on Pokemon! The mob outside, the police, whatever it is you're trying to hide will be known!" The man paced, unfazed by Betas words.

The man looks to Alpha, yet speaks to Beta; "I ask you who orchestrated this little, stunt, and I am well aware that isn't you Miss Joy..." The man reaches for Betas gas mask, sliding it off forcefully to reveal the pink haired Nurse Joy. Walking toward Alpha the man reaches for his gas mask; "No, the true culprit behind this would be you, correct, Mr. Tregres?"

(Subject 7 no longer struggles, weakened from the abuse and lost in thought)

....

(Subject 7 mumbles something angrily)

"What was that? Speak up, monster! What are you?"

(Subject 7 is shocked several more times before yelling...)
"NO!"

 

[PiccoloX]

Chapter IV: The Negative Number​

The man in the neatly pressed grey suit leans over a large digital table, intricate wires and blinking lights revealed below the glass surface. Above the table shines a 3D holograph of the Vallen region with red-dot trajectories pointing out various flight paths above the island. The different paths all cone from a single corner of the map, but spray outward, dotting different coordinates along the surface.

There were two other men to the sides of the table in uniform and a third in a lab coat planning out the flight paths. One of the men in uniform was going over files in a folder while the other speaks to the man in the grey suit. "Sir, these are the possible locations where the plane could have crashed." The man in the grey suit replies; "Why do we not know the planes location? Are you unable to track it?" The man in the uniform clears his throat; "Yes, under normal circumstances we would be able to track the planes movement. However, something disrupted the signal. We are unable to determine what happened until the plane is located." The man in the grey suit stands upright, walking along the side of the hologram as he examines the forming flight paths.

Zai examined the creature below, Ellems assessment of it being a white Zoroark was quite accurate. The physical build of the creature was unmistakable, but the white, shaggy fur coat and noticeably red eyes gave the creature an other worldly appearance. Zai asks Ellem; "Have you ever heard of a wild Zoroark whom didn't conceal its presence? Even if its current form is brought on by an illusion it's still identifiable as a Zoroark." Ellem regains his composure, rubbing his chin in contemplation as he replies; "Right! Right... It does seem rather pointless. Zoroark alter their appearance to hide from humans, the illusion doing little to effect other Pokemon. If this is part of an illusion it does fall short of the goal." As the two examined the Zoroark it stood for a moment, motionless upon leaving the forest. The glow it emanated, distorting the color of the plant life, had dissipated.

The moment passes and the Zoroark continues its slow march. It didn't seem to notice anyone, following the trail through the hill the group had formed. The sides were steep and the trail would lead to a dead end, the intent to cave in the entrance until the creature had been dealt with. Now that the group has identified it as a Pokemon they could proceed to capture it in a pokeball. Ellem had designed this trap based on witness reports while Zai predicted its seemingly random movement patterns. While the plan is sound they must first study the Zoroark, if that is what this thing was.

The man in the lab coat comments; "There could be other reasons for the plane to vanish like this, but we believe Subject 8 may be the answer." The man in the grey suit glances to the man in the lab coat; "What has brought you to this conclusion?" The man in the lab coat steps away from the terminal to hand the man in the grey suit a folder of documents; "As Subject 8 matured its feral aggression was never documented. We believed that, of all the siblings, Subject 8 might have been unaffected by the remnants of Subject 0."

The man in the grey suit flips through the folder, the papers detailing the effects of the different siblings feral aggression; "That isn't what I asked. I asked why you would believe this anomaly to be tied to Subject 8." The man in the lab coat replies; "Before the decision to ship Subject 8 to the off land site was made there was an outbreak, a seeming spread of madness which caused the others, save for Subject 7, to react violently. While Subject 8 showed no signs of change we felt shipping him first to the off-land site was the better alternative to isolation. If this madness was brought about through some unknown physical ailment we could lose our only failsafe in the Subject 0 experiment. However, there is a possibility that, unfortunately, Subject 8 was victim of the spread and it could have underwent similar effects as the others entering feral aggression. This could most likely have shorted out the systems of the plane, including our ability to track it."

The creature enters the hill carving, unsuspecting of the unnatural formation. The group remains silent above, several of the previous diggers taking notes on paper to avoid any disturbance from electronic devices in case the creature had been an Electric type. Based on its red eyes and lack of interest Zai assumed the creature might be blind, which would explain the distortion of its illusionary abilities. The white fur may be from inbreeding, the blindness a possible outcome as well. Its rare, but there are documents of aggressive breeding practices that have produced Pokemon of unusual color. The creatures posture and fur texture made it appear sickly, possibly feral. If this were the case it would be a danger to anyone who managed to catch it. There would be little hope of rehabilitation and it will most likely require euthanasia to prevent it from hurting anyone. However, since revealing itself it has shown no aggressive tendencies and the reports may have been a fabrication based on how aggressive it 'appears' to be. Zai continued his evaluation, awaiting Ellems input as the creature didn't appear to be in a hurry.

The man in the grey suit examines Subject 7's file; "Unfortunately, gentleman, I am not a gambling man. Until proven otherwise I'll have to assume Subject 8 is still intact and possibly loose, inflicted with the unsupervised aggression the others display. What is your plan of apprehension?" The man in uniform going over the files in a folder replies; "We've assembled a team to track down Subject 8 through use of Subjects 1-6. Their unique psychological linking to one another proves incredibly accurate." The man in the grey suit slaps the folder down upon the table, causing the hologram to static at the impact; "And what of Subject 7? The last report I received of her rehabilitation is that she retains close ties to Subject 8." The man in the lab coat adjusts his glasses; "Though she is progressing well in field tests she still shows violent tendencies toward anyone involved with the project. We have been modifying the correctional device for long-range communication, but she'd still need guidance. We could send her with an agent like the others, but..."

The man in the grey suit closes the folder, cutting the scientists words off; "You leave that to me. I know of a biologist whom I could 'persuade' to assist us in this matter."

Jraken, Seven and Jenny arrive at the crash site, Jenny landing the chopper in a nearby clearing in the jungle forrest. The crashed plane was a mess, mangled far worse than the impact itself would have caused. Looking over the wreckage Jraken noted that it was a cargo plane, rather small. It was most likely a modified mail carrier for personal transport. Though the plane held together there was a large segment of the left side missing in the middle. It seemed as if the metal had melted, but Jraken found no burn marks.

Jenny steps upon the bent wing of the plane where Jraken was examining the damage. She commented; "The recording device was found a few feet away in what we assumed was the scattered remains of the cockpit. It probably flew from the shattered window when the plane crashed, remarkably undamaged." Jraken felt the damaged metal, noting the smooth texture as he asked; "Whats this remind you of? The shape of the damaged metal, I mean. It kinda looks like candle wax, right?" Upon closer inspection Jenny replies; "Yes, but what could have melted the metal in such a way?" Jraken steps back, taking in the entirety of the fracture; "I don't think the metal was melted, at least not with heat anyway." Jraken points to a wider opening in the fracture; "Notice how the direction the 'melted' metal bends outward here? Gravity wouldn't allow this. I'm betting this is psychic damage, something warping the metal rather than burning it. Would explain the lack of burn marks on it or the surroundings."

The man in the lab coat hesitantly replies; "And should this biologist learn of our plans? What if we lose control of Subject 7?" The man in the grey suit hands the folder of subjects to the man in the lab coat; "Several years ago we saw Subject 0, good doctor. The idea of such a thing returning sends chills down my spine." The man in the grey suit rubs his brow and sighs; "You've worked on Subject 7's rehabilitation long enough. If she cannot be controlled, if any external influence learns of her origins or if Subject 8 cannot be safely recovered then that leaves us with only one course of action." The man in the lab looks at the unopened folder; "The Quash Initiative... But sir, we've come so far..." The man in the grey suit hold his hand up in demand of silence; "And should someone else make use of our research? Should the possible presence of the rogue Subject 8 draw more of whatever Subject 0 was? No... Believe me, it is with a heavy heart I make this call, but we must remain in control."

While the two humans conversed outside Seven had moved the search inside, looking over the remains of what had once been a sturdy steel cage. She zones out for a moment, lost in memory at the sight of the twisted metal bars. Brief flashes blur her vision, a look into the past. Though the visions were unclear she could feel a deep sense of hate and fear. For a moment she could smell copper, the sent of blood.

Jraken glances toward the direction where the contents of the cockpit flew; "This happened recently. You see any signs of the pilot or anyone else on board?" Jenny shakes her head; "No, not a trace. We've been scanning the jungle with heat sensors, but it's a large estimate on where they may have bailed. We can only guess from the direction of the crash which direction they approached, but the wind currents are choppy and could have compromised the direction of the fall." Jenny points back toward where she estimated the plane approached; "The wind could have carried anyone to jump in a parachute for miles. The only lead we have is that we know the direction of the wind currents, but its still a large area to scan."

Jraken calls to Seven; "Hey, Seven, you gettin' anything in there?" Seven did not respond, exiting the plane from the outward bending metal. Jraken noticed she seemed to be in shock, like she'd seen a ghost. Seven had psychically seen what happened, she'd heard the screams of the three humans on board and she knew that there were no longer any remains to be found...

The man in the grey suit looked to the dotted outline of the possible plane crashes; "All information regarding Subject 0 must be contained."

 

[PiccoloX]

Ellem studied the creature below using an assortment of tools he'd brought along to determine the creatures type. A thermal scan proved no excessive or recessive body heat, ruling out a fire or ice typing as well as determining that this Zoroark lacked any said adaptability. Next, he used a pair of goggles designed to scan for mineral deposits. Other than the dirt in its fur the scan revealed no Earth, Rock or Steel typing. Though these aspects would most likely be visible it was important to be thorough.

Ellem spoke in a hushed voice to Zai; "I'm not picking anything up. I don't see any wings, so it's a safe bet its not a Flying type. It could be Dark, Psychic, Fighting or hell, even Ghost, but from what I can tell it's no different from any other Zoroark I've seen, save for the poor things appearance. Does look rather sickly though, possibly mange?" Zai continued to watch, using a small pair of binoculars looped around his neck. Though the matted, dirty fur masked what lay below Zai has seen such a thing before. The posture, the sunken eyes, he could tell this Zoroark was starved. It could have fled from whoever was starving it, but that didn't make sense. For this to be the same creature from the reports its instinct would have led it to hunt for food by now.

Zai places his hand on Ellems shoulder and hands him several homemade bombs. With a hushed voice just loud enough for the diggers nearby to hear Zai tells Ellem; "I need to get a closer look. It should have at least heard us by now, but it doesn't seem to care. If this thing is domesticated it needs medical attention imediately. However, if something goes wrong use these tear bombs." Ellem grabs Zais arm before he could walk away, stopping him to say; "Woh, woh, woh, you're not going down there alone!" Zai shrugs away, replying; "It would be safer for us and the Zoroark if I go alone. I need to see if this creature is domesticated and too many approaching could startle it. Stay here, watch my back, but await my signal lest this Zoroark incapacitates me." Zai then uses a rope ladder to crawl down the steep incline just out of sight of the Zoroark.

Back at the crash site Jraken finishes loading the helicopter with some remnants of the crashed plane. He'd taken several damaged parts of the hull and some moderately damaged electrical equipment and strapped them into the seats of the copter. The crash site was left largely untouched for police to record what they find, but closer examination of the littered small parts was necessary. Jenny was trying to contact the base to see if they could communicate with Ellem and his team, but no signals were going through. Seven had been no help in loading the plane, still in shock from what she'd seen earlier. Jraken didn't know what was wrong with her, but figured he'd give her some space and let her sort it out. She'd not said anything, but held the flight recorder, subconsciously fiddling with the exterior as her mind was elsewhere.

After finishing Jenny takes off, Jraken and Seven having to stand due to lack of seating. The two equip parachutes, but the railing and handholds were enough to secure their footing. Their destination was the choke point of Ellems crew. Jraken was still determined to see this creature for himself and containment may not be an option if this creature was able to escape the plane the way it did. Jraken reaches for the tranced Sevens shoulder to steady her while she holds the recording box. After seeing how advanced the technology aboard the wrecked plane was Jraken questioned the need for the clunky recording device, but figured the internal radio made up the bulk of the flight recorder. Other than the initial contact Jenny received instructing her to locate him there'd been no radio activity and the playback for the recording wasn't functioning. Though he'd like to open it up and see if he could fix it Jraken knew time was of the essence and needed to reach Ellems crew with their findings.



Zai moves from around the corner, his hands held shoulder high and head hunched forward, a display that most canine Pokemon accept as non-threatening. He was about twenty feet away from the Zoroark who still didn't seem to notice him, continuing its slow march forward. Jraken slowly reaches into his pocket to pull out some beef jerky. He shook the bag a bit as he opened it, a familiar sound to most domesticated animals, yet it still ignored him. He tossed a piece of jerky close to it so it could smell the meat, yet it still ignored him.



Seven continued to move her hands around the box, as if driven by memory of a similar device. Jenny looks over her navigational equipment and calls back "Everyone hold on, it looks like we have some rough currents ahead." Seven remained entranced, held steady by Jraken who'd now tucked his hat under some supplies to keep from losing it in the currents.



Zai moves closer, but halts his advance when the Zoroark stops moving. It just stood there, possibly aware of Zai now. Zai was close enough to better see its face, the bloodshot, red eyes darting back in forth made it seem as if the Zoroark was asleep with its eyes open.



After hitting the choppy winds Jenny did what she could to hold the chopper steady. Through the noisy wind and shuffling of cargo Jraken heard a snap and mechanical parts whirling. In Sevens hand she'd subconsciously pressed a series of buttons, causing the device to open. He couldn't tell what it was, but it didn't look like a radio anymore. The platformed base held an orb of some kind, like an oversized antenna. Seven blinks several times, her movements showing she was once again aware of where she was.



The Zoroark leaned over, clutching its stomach with both hands before falling to its knees. Zai approached to see what was wrong, but the Zoroark suddenly looks up at him. Its fangs bared and a low growling caused Zai to step back slowly, still trying to show he wasn't a threat to the sickly Pokemon. The Zoroark opened its mouth, but rather than making an expected sound its voice seemed to come from far away. The reverberating echo of the roar started quiet, raising in intensity. The action was obvious aggressive behavior, Ellem ready to toss in a tear bomb, but Zai raises his hand and shakes his finger, still trying to inch closer to the creature.



Seven looks down at the box in her hands before sliding it under a seat. She turns around to look at Jraken, distress shown in her face. Jraken asks; "You OK, partner?" Seven tries to smile, but shakes her head, apparent sadness in her eyes. Jraken patted her on the head like he did before, causing what he believed to be a halfhearted chuckle, the sound of distress carried through the action.



Zai moved a bit closer, one hand reaching behind his back for a Pokeball. The Zoroark began to shake, the rumble of its echoed roar still heard in different intervals. Upon closer inspection it didn't seem as if the Zoroark was shaking, more like there were several Zoroark occupying the same space. The Zoroarks face shifted wildly, these illusionary apparitions becoming more distinguishable yet still occupying its singular position. Though its lower body didn't seem effected the head looked shadowed, multiple faces trying to pull themselves away, the force of which caused the Zoroark to lose its balance. With a jerking motion the Zoroark turns to face Zai before approaching him aggressively.




Seven places her hand on Jrakens chest and mutters something, but the noise of the currents drowned it out. Jraken yells; "What?" As Seven looks up at him the noise of the wind and shuffle of supplies becomes muffled, an eery silence taking over. With a clear voice Seven replies; "I'm sorry." With a grip on the parachute cord and a push of psychic force Seven propels Jraken from the helicopter, his parachute opening a safe distance away.