#eterna guild

[jollylax]

mmm In the nearby town there's an octillery who runs a food stand. She makes the yummiest food and her stand is very popular among the villagers as well as adventurers! On special occasions the guild will order loads of food from her to celebrate! Though sometimes they order takeout from her when Peachpaw's back hurts too much and she can't cook.

[kajalx]

Location: Eterna, an outdoor market Notes: Kajal is part of the thieves guild & a nightingale x

The fakes and phonies were out in multitude, and Kajal didn't even have a chance to look at the art pieces, yet. Their wrists were still a bit raw from where the cuffs had been holding them as of late, and it wasn't even the kinky kind – just bad luck. Their gaze lingered a little longer on a statue, one that held a likeness to a demon. Large horns extended from the top of the statue's head, seemingly made from bone, as the creature's mouth had rows and rows of sharp teeth. Kajal leaned forward slightly to study it a little more, his gaze flickering to the person who had also stopped to give it a look. "The Blight. Scary story, right? Bet this is based on one of those rulers from Astoria."

[teamconductors]

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Lost Tracks of Time, One Last Stop

Summary: Ingo and Emmet continue their adventures through present day Unova, past Hisui, and future Sinnoh.

Author’s Note: One year ago, on February 20th, I wrote and published the original PMD LTOT oneshot on my personal tumblr. It was inspired by @furiouskettle’s art of Ingo and Emmet as Sneasels in a PMD world. I never expected the fic to get as much attention as it did, but I’m glad it did. I got to tell a full story two funky dudes screwed over by Arceus that reunited, got a sister, saved a legendary pokemon, and now casually time travel between three times.

So I needed to make something for the anniversary, right?

(As always, bl*nkshippers DNI)

In a world with only pokemon, there was Eterna Town. Near the Pearl Guild and Eterna Forest, the town acted as a near-mandatory stop for rescue teams before they set out on missions. Among the teams that frequent the hub was Team Conductors. The co-leaders knew the importance of preparations, which was why they petitioned to have the town as a stop for their subway system.

The team visited all the shops to ask for permission to build a station, though many of the conversations consisted of Ingo explaining what a subway was and why they wanted to build one. The Kecleon brothers gladly accepted the idea of more business. Gimmighoul also jumped at the potential for more customers for their bank. Rampardos’ Apprisal and Kangaskhan gave their approval after an even longer explanation of trains from Ingo. Decidueye hesitated since he didn’t know how much space they would need and if it could interfere with his training dojo’s space, but he relented upon seeing everyone else’s signatures.

Lastly, there was Alcremie’s café and bakery. She was a nervous person, so the idea of her little shop getting more attention made her nervous. Ingo and Emmet decided to give her some time to think on it, and they ordered drinks for the team.

“Um…” Eelektross’ body barely fit inside the café, and he had to loop it along the walls to avoid running into other pokemon. He held his smoothie with his claws, trying to put just enough pinch pressure to hold and not break it. “I’ll… eat outside…” He left the building with Chandelure, who decided to stare at their trainer while floating next to their friend.

Ingo sighed as he sat down next to Emmet and across from Sneasler. The three sat in a corner of the cafe where they can talk more freely. His body visibly relaxed. “Bravo, everyone…”

“Your voice is rough,” Emmet said.

“You didn’t have to explain what subways were to everyone, Ingo. I think most the folk here would’ve said yes,” Sneasler said.

“But they deserve to know what the project is about!” Ingo said. “Getting permissions to make the Battle Subway didn’t make us this exhausted.”

“The train station was already there. We only had to worry about train cars strong enough for pokemon battles,” Emmet said.

“You have a good point, Emmet,” Ingo said. “For now, let us rest until Miss Alcremie makes her decision!”

“Uh, yeah. That’s why we’re still here,” Sneasler said.

“Also, Sneasler, did you want to hear about previous trips to the other stations?” Ingo asked.

“Sure. Anything good happen?” Sneasler asked. She sipped her smoothie.

“We told Elesa everything,” Emmet said.

Sneasler gasped while drinking, resulting in her breathing in liquid. She lurched forward and coughed to clear her throat.

“Are you alright?!” Ingo jumped to standing position to help Sneasler.

After a few more coughs and a brief pounding of her chest, Sneasler regained control of her breathing. “You WHAT?!”

“That was a joke… Sorry, Sneasler,” Emmet said, looking away from her due to guilt.

Ingo sighed. “Because we felt terrible for not being able to tell Elesa why we can turn into Sneasels, we decided to construct a plausible story to show her to almost the right destination of truth. It was tricky to craft something believable since we can’t tell her about the future, but we tried.”

Sneasler raised a brow. “And? How’d that go?”

***

In a café on the outskirts of Nimbasa City, thee pokemon trainers met for coffee. The sun had not yet peaked over the horizon, as the three wanted to meet before most people awakened for the day. The three chose a meeting time so early not only to avoid interference with their schedules but also to allow them to talk more openly without worry of anyone eavesdropping them. Wild Minccino swept the outdoor grounds of the café, avoiding the pokemon of the trainers eating breakfast at their trainer’s feet. Ingo and Emmet sat opposite to Elesa.

Elesa stared at her half-finished latte. “Let me see if I got this right. Ingo got sent to Hisui by Arceus itself to save the world, but either of you could’ve been taken.” She looked at Ingo. “You lost your memories while protecting the other trainer sent to save the world, and that’s what you were like when Emmet found you.”

“That is right,” Emmet said.

Elesa continued, “And then, after the world was saved, this Volo guy tried to get revenge on you two, and that’s why Giratina had you turn into Sneasels? To protect you?”

“I suppose that explanation streamlines the events well,” Ingo said.

Elesa took a sip of coffee. “You two need to get better at lying.”

“What… made you arrive at that conclusion?” Ingo asked.

“Call it a gut feeling,” Elesa said. “Plus I know you too well. You’re not the best liars. Well, something tells me you weren’t entirely lying. The first half sounded about right, but the second half… Some of the pieces don’t fit right.”

“Busted,” Emmet said. His grin grew wider.

Ingo sighed. “As always, your intuition is quite admirable. I am truly sorry, Elesa.”

“Don’t worry, I’m not gonna hold it against you. From the way Giratina talked about things, it sounds like I’m not supposed to know anyway, no matter how much I want to,” Elesa said.

“I am sorry,” Emmet said, his smile lowering enough for Elesa to notice. “I… wanted to clear your train of thought from worrying.” He wanted to put some of Elesa’s mind at ease after all the troubles he caused her and all she did to care for their pokemon in their absence.

Elesa smiled. “I appreciate it. But you two, promise me something.”

“Yes?” Ingo and Emmet said.

“As soon as you’re allowed to tell me what really happened, please do. Because it sounds like you had fun,” Elesa said. “Oh, speaking of…” “Elesa turned and checked around the area.

After staring in confusion, Ingo and Emmet realized what she was doing and scanned their surroundings.

“The station is all clear,” Ingo said. Emmet nodded in agreement.

“Well, I can trust it if you two do. So!” Elesa sat up, and her eyes brightened. “How’s your transformation training going? You said you’re working on it, right?”

“We made excellent progress!” Ingo said. “Emmet and I can carry out transformations on our own accord and complete them within 5 seconds!”

“They are weird to watch,” Emmet said. His gaze drifted away from Elesa and Ingo. “I am Emmet. I am still sorry you saw it.”

“What, am I the only one who’s seen it happen?” Elesa raised a brow at her friends.

“Unfortunately, this is correct,” Ingo said.

“Don’t forget about us,” Eelektross said as he placed his head on Emmet’s lap. Emmet smiled and petted Eelektross’ head.

“As if we could forget!” Ingo said as his Excadrill approached for pets as well. “I apologize to you as well, my pokemon.”

“One day they’ll stop apologizing,” Archeops said. Galvantula, Durant, and Crustle nodded in agreement.

“And what about the interpol? Are they off your backs yet?” Elesa asked.

Ingo sighed. “Despite us staying on course to deny any recollection of where and when we went, the people there are rather persistent in finding out the truth…”

“We are lucky they haven’t found our spike maul and rail spike yet,” Emmet said.

“I mean, you did disappear for a month and then jumped out of a window. Hard to get a flashier entrance than that!” Elesa said. “Maybe we can just tell them some Beheeyems abducted you or something?”

Ingo’s and Emmet’s hearts jumped at the mention of a Beheeyem. Of all the pokemon to mention…

“Changing our story’s track would draw more suspicions than we already have,” Ingo said, frowning deeply. “We will ensure that the international police arrive at a destination that will satisfy their curiosity.”

“I think you will. You guys are smart. Let’s just hope Arceus doesn’t get any funny ideas and try to kidnap anyone else!” Elesa laughed, but then she stopped at once. “Oh, wait, you said there was another trainer that went with you, Ingo. Never mind then.”

“We will figure it out,” Emmet said.

The sun peaked over the horizon and through the trees. Elesa held up a hand to cover her eyes. “That’s my cue! I’m gonna go for a jog before the chill morning air warms up. It just gives me an energizing jolt. Wanna come with?”

“Thank you for the offer, but Emmet and I should depart for the Battle Subway,” Ingo said. “Are all of our passengers ready?”

Ingo’s and Emmet’s pokemon all gave their trainers affirmations of readiness.

“Elesa, thank you for continuing to ride with us despite all of the mayhem we caused,” Ingo said. His frown changed to a smile long enough for Elesa to notice.

She smiled. “Thanks for trying to make me feel better.” Elesa recalled her pokemon to their balls, save for Zebstrika. “C’mon, Zebstrika! Race you to the gym!” She disposed of her empty coffee cup and jogged with her pokemon at her side.

***

Sneasler chuckled. “Kinda sucks you can’t say shit to her. I wanna meet her.”

“Sadly, Almighty Giratina and Mighty Dialga raised an excellent point. Knowing about the future can be dangerous, and I can only imagine how worrying it would be to find out that no living humans exist in the future, even if the destination is rather far,” Ingo said.

“Maybe we can find her reincarnation,” Emmet said, pointing a finger up.

Ingo’s eyes widened. “Emmet, is that a possible destination?”

Emmet shrugged. “Several humans from Hisui and our home time reincarnated. I do not see why it is not.”

“Hm… I think I would rather try and find an alternate path that would lead us to explaining more things to our Elesa. She can keep secrets, but I understand Mighty Dialga’s hesitation,” Ingo said.

“We can deal with that later. Anything else good happen that won’t make me choke on my drink?” Sneasler asked.

Ingo and Emmet proceeded to tell Sneasler about different battles from the Battle Subway, including a multi-battle against two regional champions. In truth, Sneasler could barely keep up with Ingo’s and Emmet’s excitement over giving an exact play-by-play of the battle. Battles with trainers were different than the battles she knew, but it made her wonder about what it’s like to trust someone that much for decisions in a fast-paced battle.

“Okay, that’s enough.” She worried that Ingo really would throw out his voice with his multiple infodumping sessions that day. “What about in Hisui? Anything good that I don’t remember yet?” Sneasler asked.

“I am getting better at being a warden,” Emmet said. “My pokemon are getting verrrry strong. I am almost ready to battle Ingo!”

“You are always welcome to train with me, Emmet, regardless of the strength of your team!” Ingo said.

“No. I meant in a serious battle.”

“Very well, then. Perhaps we can battle next time we arrive there!” Ingo hummed before continuing. “Oh! Emmet met all the other Wardens of the Pearl Guild!”

“It was strange,” Emmet said. “Knowing their reincarnations made it weird.”

“But they accepted Emmet with open arms!” Ingo said.

“Wait, before you continue, I need to know. Emmet, did you meet Melli yet?” Sneasler asked.

Emmet’s smile grew wider. “Yes. I do not like him.”

“Yeah, I figured. What was that like?” Sneasler asked.

“I have to say, Emmet did extremely well to maintain his duty as a Warden and restrain himself!” Ingo said with complete sincerity.

“He said he was better than us because his ward only needed him. He called Ingo a bad warden!” Emmet’s smile grew so wide that his face hurt.

Sneasler sighed. “Yeah, sounds about right. When I remembered him, I asked Electrode about that guy, and she said that the Lord Electrode from then really liked him. I don’t get it.”

“Warden Melli has his… faults, but he sincerely cares for his Ward and maintenance of the Coronet Highlands,” Ingo said. “Emmet challenged him to a battle for the comment, though.”

“I won. None of my pokemon fainted.” Emmet sipped his iced tea in satisfaction.

Sneasler laughed. “Nice. Anything else good happen?”

“Hm… Oh! We had an unusual mission right before we returned to this station!” Ingo said.

***

Several centuries in the past, there was the Coronet Highlands in the Hisui region. Toward the northern region of the area, two human-shaped people kept their watch over the area for the safety of both humans and pokemon.

Emmet pulled on the neckline of the Pearl Clan tunic. While glad to be accepted into the clan that accepted his brother, the tunic worked well to keep him warm. Too well. But he had to wear the uniform for his job, so he continued wearing it even if he was more comfortable in the cold.

Ingo looked at Emmet and fidgeted with his own coat. He felt his Arc Watch vibrate. He rolled up his sleeve slightly to see the screen. As long as other clan members weren’t around, he used the watch’s map to keep an eye on mass outbreaks and massive mass outbreaks of pokemon. The vibrating notification only occurred when a Space-Time Distortion formed.

Emmet sniffed the air and scanned around the highlands as much as he could. He saw a bubble of chaos in the distance near Fabled Spring. “There is a distortion. I am still curious. Why are there stable Space-Time Distortions in Hisui?”

“Well, seeing as Miss Akari has captured Mighty Dialga, Mighty Palkia, and Almighty Giratina at this point, perhaps this is their method of thanking her for saving the world,” Ingo said.

“That sounds weird.” Emmet stretched his arms and shoulders. “I want to visit the distortion. I want to battle strong pokemon.”

“…Emmet, I need you to confirm something for me.” Ingo swiped on the watch screen, turning the two-dimensional map into a projected three-dimensional one of the Coronet Highlands. A wide purple circle represented the distortion, which was expected. “Can you confirm what I see on this map?”

Ingo pointed at the irregularity, which was a single blue dot inside the circle.

“I see the dot,” Emmet said. Though he wore his familiar smile, he was not pleased. “I am Emmet. I am certain it is a passenger.”

“That is what I feared. The blue dots represent our clients for our rescues in the future, but to think we’d see that marker here… Emmet, we must depart for Fabled Spring!”

“Yes. FULL SPEED AHEAD! NO BRAKES!” Emmet began his run down the hill, his arms held straight behind him.

“Emmet, please be cautious as you traverse down a slope!” Ingo ran after his brother.

Emmet and Ingo ran down the Sacred Plaza along a well-trotted path. They passed the graveyard and entered Bolderoll Ravine.

“GET OVER HERE!” Three Graveler curled into balls and chased after the twins.

“This is not good,” Emmet said, glancing at Ingo to make sure his brother would be alright.

An alpha Golem roared, knocking Ingo and Emmet to the ground. He needed no other information than to destroy the humans that entered their territory. The alpha joined his Graveler friends and rolled to crush Ingo and Emmet.

Ingo grabbed his cap, which flew off when he fell. “EMMET! PULL NO BRAKES!” His extraordinarily loud shout made the Gravelers and Golem wince, buying him and his brother precious time to pick themselves up and continue running.

Ingo and Emmet approached the river that led to Fabled Spring. Because mountains and hills surround the spring, the only entry possible without the use of a climbing pokemon like Lady Sneasler was to follow the river. They approached a bridge that led to another part of the highlands.

When they stood on the bridge, Ingo and Emmet grabbed out one pokeball each. “Time to depart!” they both announced. They threw their pokeballs to the river. Out came Ingo’s Magnezone and Emmet’s Crobat. The pokemon turned and saw their humans chased by an avalanche of angry Golem and Gravelers and instantly knew what to do. The two wardens jumped with absolute confidence that their pokemon would catch them before they plummet into the water. Ingo flopped onto Magnezone while Emmet grabbed onto Crobat’s tail. Crobat squeaked from the weight, but he kept his human above the water.

Golem and his Gravelers screeched into a halt on the bridge before they could fall into the water. Though unsatisfied with the outcome, the humans left their territory. They turned to roll back to Bolderoll Ravine.

“Excellent! Bravo!” Ingo said to their pokemon.

“You’re… heavy…” Magnezone said with a strained but monotone voice. They were not used to their human riding on them.

“Oh, I apologize. We are close to our destination.” Ingo pointed forward to the distortion down the river. “Please bring us to the space-time distortion!”

“Are you serious?!” Crobat asked. Going to the distortion did not surprise him; Emmet beelined to a distortion whenever one appeared. He was just surprised since Emmet normally did not ask to carry him across long distances.

“I am Emmet, and he is Ingo. We are always serious,” Emmet said. “Thank you for your service.”

Magnezone and Crobat reluctantly flew toward the distorted Fabled Spring. On a typical day, the Fabled Springs was a flat area of the highlands defined by the sparkling spring that ran through it. Clefairy and other strange but beautiful pokemon gathered in the area, further lending to its graceful atmosphere. At that point, however, there was barely enough land next to the river that the pokemon can drop the Wardens off outside of the violet, swirling barrier. The fairy type pokemon were also absent, hiding from the distortion.

“Thank you, my pokemon! We shall provide you more treats once our mission is complete,” Ingo said as he recalled Magnezone into its pokeball.

“I will do the same,” Emmet said. Crobat nodded and returned to his pokeball as well.

“Once we return to the future, we need to reward Eelektross and Chandelure more for carrying us around places,” Ingo said. “Emmet! Are you ready for departure?”

“I am Emmet. I am ready.”

Ingo braced for impact as he passed through the distortion barrier. The difference in the air was immediate. The Coronet Highlands bared a sharp coldness only outdone by the icelands. Within the distortion, the air instead was warm and thick. Emmet pulled on the collar of his tunic to let out some heat. Instead of the graceful, flat fields the twins knew, the distortion warped the landscape into peaks and valleys. Items like evolution stones, colored slab shards, and even futuristic TMs were scattered around. Lightning sparked and stretched across the swirling violet sky that blocked out the sun.

“Ingo, where is our passenger?” Emmet asked. He began surveying the landscape like he intended to cross a street.

“They should be in the center of the distortion, but given the landscape changes…” Ingo looked up to confirm the map’s information. The map indicated an especially large shift in the center that resulted in a small mountain. Indeed, a grassed mound taller than the ruined pillars near Lord Electrode’s Seat protruded from the spring river.

“How do we get up there?” Emmet asked.

“Allow me to reach our passenger! And please watch my surroundings for me.” Ingo may not have claws while in his human-shape, but his experience climbing as a Sneasel made it easier to climb as a human as well. It helped that the mountain was not too steep to realistically need assistance from someone like Lady Sneasler. Within a minute or two, he reached the top to see who the rescuee was.

“Sir Rei!” Ingo picked up and held the teenager in his arms.

“The Pikachu?” Emmet asked.

“Well, you’re not wrong, but this is the original Rei. We need to transport him to one of the Galaxy Expedition Team’s camps. Thankfully, his injuries do not seem severe, save for his loss of consciousness.”

“Okay. Where is the nearest camp?” Emmet asked.

“That would be...” Ingo pulled up his watch map and focused on the lower section of the Coronet Highlands. “Hm. The summit camp is objectively the shortest distance, but the uphill incline may impact our method of travelling. There is another Galaxy camp near Lonely Spring, which has a more straightforward path but is also a longer distance. On saying that outloud, our path is clear. Let’s depart for the summit-!”

Emmet pulled Ingo backwards by the collar of his tunic. Where Ingo once stood, a Flamethrower blew and would have charred Ingo.

“Thank you, Emmet!” Ingo said. He and Emmet faced the pokemon that spawned from the air: a Magmortar, a Toxicroak, and an Alakazam. Alakazam manifested orbs of psychic energy and launched them to Ingo. He barely jumped out of the way in time. He turned to shield Rei from the dust and grass kicked up from the attack.

“Huh, this feels familiar,” Emmet said as he dodged another Flamethrower from Magmortar.

“Emmet, I cannot battle these pokemon while escorting Rei!” Ingo said while running away from Alakazam and Toxicroak.

“I am Emmet. I will assist you!” Emmet pulled out two pokeballs and threw them toward Ingo. His Garchomp and Porygon-Z popped out and took defensive positions between Ingo and the wild pokemon.

Toxicroak tried to Poison Jab Emmet, but his Garchomp rushed over and used Earth Power to break up the ground beneath them. The distorted area made chunks of ground float up, obscuring Toxicroak’s vision.

Meanwhile, Porygon-Z followed Ingo and used Shadow Ball on the Alakazam. Magmortar engulfed Porygon-Z with his Flamethrower. Porygon-Z shook off the remaining flames and continued shaking as it countered with Tri Attack, paralyzing the Magmortar. Toxicroak tried to butt into the battle with Rock Smash, but Garchomp used Outrage and charged into the Toxicroak as well as the Alakazam.

“We are approaching our destination!” Ingo said. He and Emmet were almost at the edge of the distortion, only diverting from their straight path when the ground shifted in an attempt to trip them.

“You did well!” Emmet said as Porygon-Z and Garchomp recalled themselves into their poke balls. He turned to check on their opponents, but the three hostile pokemon vanished, seemingly replaced by a Sheildon and a Rowlet. “Verrrry strange.”

The Wardens jumped through the violet barrier. The cold air hit their faces like an Icy Wind. The landscape was the same as when they last left it.

“Are you alright, Emmet?” Ingo asked.

“I am Emmet. I am okay, as is my team,” Emmet said.

“Excellent! And let me say bravo to your pokemon as well! ... Well, perhaps we should wait until Sir Rei gets proper medical attention.”

Emmet nodded. The two took off running north to the nearest Galaxy Expedition Team camp. Upon arrival, the Survey Corps members retrieved Rei and had him rest at their tent. They prepared medicine to aid Rei’s healing process. Ingo and Emmet sat on a fallen marble pillar.

“Ingo, I had a thought. Do you know what the distortions remind me of?” Emmet asked.

“Hm? I might know, but please tell me!” Ingo’s eyes widened.

“They are like mystery dungeons.”

“Huh. Could you explain the connection?”

“Guildmaster Irida said that mystery dungeons came without warning. They are dangerous and changed the land. Items and hostile pokemon appear randomly, too.”

“…Huh, what an interesting connection! Now that I think of it, Mighty Palkia mentioned stabilizing the mystery dungeons from the Distortion World merger. Hm… do you think we could arrange a meeting with Mighty Palkia about this?”

“Hm… If we do, could we ask them to not form any mystery dungeons in our subway system?”

“Oh! Emmet, that is brilliant! Sneasler said that there shouldn’t be any risk of a dungeon forming, but a meeting would likely ensure it! Let’s embark on that journey after we finish today’s work here!”

***

“In sum, we applied our experiences in the mystery dungeons to distortions in Hisui, and we even rescued a passenger! Isn’t it astounding?” Ingo asked.

“I love how casual you guys are about meeting legendary pokemon,” Sneasler said. She took a bite of her salted puffs she purchased during the story.

“Were you listening, Sneasler?” Emmet asked.

“Of course I was! I’m glad you got to apply your knowledge and shit.” Sneasler paused. “…Wait, you guys came straight here after that rescue?”

“Yes, but only after Sir Rei regained consciousness and his team was healed,” Ingo said.

“…Have you guys taken a break? Or gone on vacation or something?” Sneasler asked.

Ingo frowned further. “We have not. Since we can travel between our duties, it has been easier to-“

“The time travel crap should mean you have more time to take a vacation!” Sneasler pointed to Ingo.

Ingo closed his eyes to think about what Sneasler said.

“A vacation is a good idea,” Emmet said. “A change of scenery would be nice.”

“Great!” Sneasler clapped her hands once. “So I was thinking-“

“I have a better idea.” Emmet’s smile grew wider. “Sneasler, battle us.”

“…What?” Sneasler asked.

“Sneasler, battle me and Ingo. If you win, we all go on vacation,” Emmet said.

Sneasler blinked. “Or… you know… we can just go on vacation without a battle.”

“Battle us, Sneasler.” Emmet leaned in closer toward Sneasler.

Ingo hummed. “I would feel bad about temporarily abandoning our duties so soon after we began planning construction of the subway. But if it was part of an agreement based on the outcome of a battle, how can I argue against it?”

Sneasler groaned loud enough to attract some head-turns from other customers. “You two are ridiculous… Didn’t we already battle once or twice?!”

“I want a battle where you are not trying to kill us,” Emmet said.

“Emmet, that was rude,” Ingo said.

“Guys, I’m still a lot stronger than you.” Sneasler crossed her arms.

“We fought Arceus and won,” Emmet said.

Sneasler opened her mouth to retort, but she found no argument to beat Emmet’s. If they managed to beat Arceus, then maybe a battle against them both wouldn’t be as one-sided as she feared. “…Okay. So I beat you and we all go on vacation. Dare I ask what you want if you two win?”

Ingo and Emmet shared a look and began thinking. Ingo spoke. “Then we immediately contact Almgihty Giratina and Mighty Dialga to see if we can tell Elesa more than we can now and ask Mighty Palkia our questions about where mystery dungeons originate from!”

“I like that idea,” Emmet said.

“I regret asking,” Sneasler said. “But that’s on me. Alright, alright, alright! Fine! You two will get your battle.”

“Excellent! Let us depart for an appropriate battlefield!” Ingo finished the rest of his drink in one gulp. Emmet did the same.

“Oh, I have a good place in mind,” Sneasler said.

***

In Eterna Forest, there was a grand tree that was cutdown, leaving behind a massive stump. The Noble pokemon used the stump as a meeting table for official business, but there was a clearing next to the area.

“You know, this is kinda a meeting place for the Nobles,” Sneasler said while taking off her basket. She flipped the basket over, letting the two Sneasels tumble out. “Kleavor’s Seat is near, too.”

“Oh! Is our battle going to interrupt his business?” Ingo asked.

“Nah. He’s out doing Noble pokemon stuff,” Sneasler said.

“Maybe we should clean up after…?” Eelektross said.

“Eh, it’s fine. It’s not the first a battle was here. Remember the whole frenzying thing from the past? This was where that Akari girl battled the Kleavor from back then.” Sneasler pointed to the ground.

“Appropriate,” Emmet said.

“Alright, you two. Let’s do this, I guess.” She took off her basket and coat and gave them to Eelektross and Chandelure. Remembering that Anthe the Tailor modified her gray conductor’s cap to reduce damage taken from psychic-type attacks and knowing Emmet would want to use Psycho Cut against her, she began taking it off.

“Pull the brakes! Wear your uniform during a battle!” Emmet said, pointing at Sneasler’s cap.

“What, the hat? I’m already stronger than you. I don’t need to wear this for our fight,” Sneasler said.

“Sneasler, when Emmet and I battle others, we operate at our best because that is what our opponents deserve,” Ingo said.

“This is a serious battle. If a battle is not serious, it is not fun,” Emmet said.

“Just listen to them… please…” Eelektross said. He had curled into a coil on top of the giant tree stump, and Chandelure rested on top of his body. Though they wanted to battle, too, they decided to leave this one to their trainers.

Sneasler rolled her eyes and groaned. “On my ancestors… Fine!” Sneasler slapped her cap back on. She spread her feet and held her claws up in a battle stance. “Serious battle it is. Now do your thing.”

Ingo nodded. “This will be a two-against-one battle. Will Emmet and I cover each other’s weaknesses? Or will your strength overwhelm us? I look forward to finding out!” He pointed to Sneasler and the ground.

Emmet stood and mirrored Ingo’s pose. “Follow the rules and drive safely! We’re headed for victory!”

“ALL ABOARD!” The three said.

Ingo Bulked Up while Emmet Honed his Claws. Sneasler noted their buffs and took the time to get a running start. Poison seeped her claws. She yelled as she charged the Sneasels. Ingo Quick Attacked into Emmet to get his brother out of the way of the Dire Claw.

Sneasler hit the ground where they once stood, her claws digging in slightly. “Shoulda seen that coming.” She pulled her hand out and collected herself. Ingo and Emmet ran at her with Quick Attack and Psycho Cut, respectively. She took Ingo’s attack to her stomach and held her arm up to tank Emmet’s. Her feet slid, leaving a trail of dirt in the ground, but she did not topple. With her other hand, she swung and used a single Aerial Ace on them both.

“She truly isn’t holding back! Bravo!” Ingo said after he recovered from the supereffective attack. He jumped backwards for space and ran around Sneasler. He prepared a Drain Punch but waited for an opening.

“The hell are you doing?” Sneasler asked Ingo. Despite the distraction, she kept her eye on Emmet, who got back up and jumped above her. Sneasler held her arms up to block his Psycho Cut. Emmet landed the attack, then a whistle manifested from nowhere into his hand. The whistle fweeted, which made Sneasler realize he used Beat Up. She turned to see Ingo teleport due to Emmet’s summoning attack. She hit Ingo’s Drain Punch with her Dire Claw. Though Ingo managed to regain some health from Sneasler, an unnatural drowsiness loomed over him.

Emmet saw his brother struggling to stay standing. He knew the attack wasn’t enough to make Ingo faint, so he deduced that Sneasler’s Dire Claw inflicted Ingo with drowsiness. Emmet needed to give his brother space to recover from the status condition. He Ice Beamed Sneasler in the chest. She crushed the ice crystals with a few strikes of her claws. Emmet used another Ice Beam, this time aiming at her feet. Ice covered Sneasler’s feet.

“Shit!” It was much harder for Sneasler to break ice that low while also keeping her eye on Emmet. She struck the ice once and then looked up. Emmet used Ice Beam again. Ice frosted her legs and chest, limiting her movement even more. She wasn’t fully frozen, but it was enough to cause some worry when Emmet ran at her with another Psycho Cut. Unfortunately for Emmet, though, her arms were still free. Sneasler Drain Punched Emmet in the face, making him fly and hit a tree.

With one final head shake, Ingo broke through the drowsiness. Emmet was in dire straits from that direct Drain Punch. He needed to get an opening for them to have any chance at defeating Sneasler. They played defensively due to the difference in strength, but that needed to change if they wanted to win. Emmet used Hone Claws again, and Ingo used Bulk Up. Ingo then charged to Sneasler with Quick Attack. Emmet did the same with Psycho Cut.

The next minute was absolute chaos for Sneasler. She knew they overwhelmed Arceus by attacking with no time to breathe, but to see it in action against her was something else. Ingo switched between Quick Attacks and Drain Punches, darting front to back, left to right. Emmet switched between Psycho Cut and Ice Beam, narrowly dodging Ingo to strike her. Whenever Sneasler hit one twin with an Aerial Ace or Dire Claw, the other would attack her right back. Worse still, Emmet’s Ice Beams kept repairing the ice anchoring her to the ground.

Their flurry of attacks dented Sneasler’s health, but her endurance and noble strength kept her upright. After one last Drain Punch, Ingo took a deep breath to prepare his secret weapon for powerful opponents. It was Emmet’s suggestion, where he made a comment of shame for not thinking of it sooner. 

Ingo Screeched. His yell echoed through Eterna Forest, causing several bird pokemon to fly out in surprise.

“HOLY SHIT!” Sneasler, who had broken off the ice from her legs, covered her ears. Ingo’s voice ringed in her ears. With Sneasler caught off-guard, Ingo and Emmet used Drain Punch and Psycho Cut on Sneasler, breaking her free from the ice cementing her to the ground but also making her tumble. To her surprise, she struggled to get back to her feet. It seemed that the twins were winning, but on closer inspection of them, their legs shook, and their breathing was labored.

All three of them were close to fainting.

Ingo and Emmet needed one more push. Emmet ran ahead while Ingo stayed put to Screech. He saw Sneasler’s body tense from the noise, but she continued running to Emmet. Sneasler’s claws glowed white, and she swiped at Emmet, who jumped to hit her in the head. Her attack landed, stopping Emmet’s momentum. She continued running to Ingo, her claws still glowing white. Ingo Quick Attacked into her body. She swung and struck him right on impact.

Sneasler fell to one knee and allowed herself to breathe with her full body. Meanwhile, Ingo and Emmet bounced along the ground from the force. The edges of both their visions were dark, but instead of the darkness overwhelming them, it retreated.

“That was… False Swipe!” Ingo said as he helped Emmet to his feet. He didn’t consciously pause in the middle of his sentence to take a breath, but he did.

“Alright, that’s enough. We’re done here,” Sneasler said.

“This is… an… early… stop!” Emmet said between breaths.

“None of us… fainted!” Ingo said.

“Are you serious??” Sneasler asked. “You’re both barely standing…! I don’t wanna make you faint!”

“But…” Emmet wanted to refute Sneasler’s argument.

Ingo placed a hand on Emmet’s shoulder. “I understand, Sneasler. We went full speed ahead in our battle, and that’s more than enough.” In truth, Ingo wanted to keep battling until it could officially end. But for the sake of their teammates, he needed to put their health first this time. “Thank you for fighting at full strength with us!”

Emmet nodded. “That was a verrrry fun battle! Let’s fight again sometime!”

“Yeah, yeah… Just eat up please…” Eelektross approached the exhausted pokemon with several oran berries in hand. Chandelure followed behind with Sneasler’s basket hooked around their arms, the basket itself dangling and avoiding any spillage of contents thanks to its cover. They also held Sneasler’s coat on the other arm.

Sneasler consumed her oran berry in two bites and took her basket and coat from Chandelure. “Also, Ingo… Never use Screech again, holy shit. You’re loud enough as is. I saw those two recoiling.” She pointed to the other two members of Team Conductors.

“Oh! Is that true?” Ingo asked Chandelure and Eelektross.

“Well…” Eelektross twiddled his claws. “It was sorta like when you made announcements on the speakers for the first time… It’s been years since I last heard you at that volume…”

“I apologize for hurting you!” Ingo bowed. “I will be more careful about using that attack in the future!”

Chandelure shrugged. Ingo began learning the flame language they used to communicate to Eelektross and told their trainer that they were fine.

“It may have been “fine”, but I still want to ensure that our passengers are not harmed,” Ingo said.

Emmet finished nibbling his oran berry. “I still like the move to lower an opponent’s defense.”

“Yeah yeah yeah…” Sneasler rubbed her ears.

“So… since the battle reached an early stop, who won?” Emmet asked.

“I did.” Sneasler picked up the twins by scruffs of their necks and held one under each arm.

“Sneasler, what is the meaning of this?!” Ingo flailed to try and escape.

Sneasler tossed the Sneasels up. Chandelure tossed to Sneasler her basket. “We’re going on vacation now, got it?” She slapped the cover off her recently-emptied basket just in time for Ingo and Emmet to fall straight in.

“Bravo! That was an excellent throw!” Ingo said as he shuffled to a more comfortable position in the basket. He grazed his claws across the woven grass, and a bump underneath the bottom indicated it still held the Toxic Plate.

“We have been kidnapped,” Emmet said. He and Ingo felt the basket rumble as Sneasler put her basket on.

“Do you know a… good vacation spot…?” Eelektross flew to walk beside Sneasler. Chandelure followed closely behind him.

“Hm, not really… Maybe I can ask Electrode or Arcanine or something,” Sneasler said.

Eelektross sighed. “Anyplace that’s a change of scenery should work…”

As Sneasler and Eelektross tried to figure where to go, Ingo and Emmet quietly enjoyed the feeling of the basket’s shakes as Sneasler walked. Ingo preferred taking train rides for his vacations, and Sneasler’s basket replicating the repetitive motion with ease. Emmet preferred changes of scenery, so he listened attentively to his family’s conversation. Most importantly, however, Ingo and Emmet had peace.

[violetnintendo]

places in nintendo games that feel like home to me - comet observatory (super mario galaxy), wigglytuff's guild (pokemon mystery dungeon: explorers of time/darkness/sky), lor starcutter (kirby's return to dreamland), the dreamyard (pokemon black and white), garreg mach monastery (fire emblem three houses), eterna forest (pokemon diamond/pearl/platinum and brilliant diamond/shining pearl), splatsvile (splatoon 3), skyloft (legend of zelda: skyward sword), the roost, and the able sisters store (most animal crossing games)

pictures taken from the mario wikia, bulbapedia, psypoke, the kirby wikia, respawnfirst, gamepur, inkipedia, the zelda wikia, nookipedia, and game8

[divineluckfuckoff]

Tales of Plumeria: The main group

Plumeria Lillium, a 19 year old cleric and elementary school teacher in Santa Plata. She is an adventurous and enthusiastic girl who tries her best to see the best in people and has a lot of patience. She is the healer of the group.

Ezra Blueblood, a 21 year old bounty hunter from the guild Cáliz Dorado. He is a sarcastic, hotheaded guy who has a lot of respect for his friends and would kill for them. He uses a spear.

Yvonne Faeiry, a 19 year old fairy from the collony of Escarlata Eterna, a collony near Santa Plata, in the forest of the Scarlet Lillies. She is a sweet, shy and socially anxious fairy who uses electricity magic.

Francis Harmone, a 20 year old scientist from Faether. He is cold and closed off, he is very scared of opening up to people due to his abandonment issues, and is a bit of an overachiever. He uses science as his method of attack, like in Miitopia.

Kimiya, a 13 year old orphan from Panacut. She joined the rebellion despite her young age due to the fact that her parents died because of the corrupt political system of Panacut. She is a stoner, takes a while to get her to show emotions. She uses explosion magic and bombs.

Lastly, the redemption seeking man, Hayato Hanakawa. His origins are unknown, all we know is that Midnight Bloodstream took him in, and he felt obligated to repay them by doing evil. He is quite apologetic and quiet, always apologizing for any mistakes he makes and always trying his best to make up for them. He uses a bow as well as a dagger.

[thequeendomhq]

THE PERSISTENT ~

NAME. UTP AGE & BIRTH DATE. UTP SPECIES. Revenant FACTION. Warrior's Guild OCCUPATION. Vanguard & Blademaster

Undone. Warrior. Upstart of a broken throne. You were a child who was said to be touched by the light, violence would overtake your bones as the pattern coiled its way around your throat. It constricted your limbs and bound your tongue as you’d writhe in place, catching glimpses of what the world would be and how you would come to shape it. Soft, sensitive, and kind, it wasn’t until you had left your youth behind that you came to learn that this was the One God speaking through you. Wiry limbs took to lifting a blade that would take the strength of two with but a single hand, effortless, your sword became the word of the One God Himself and you saw the blasphemous lies of Eterna for what it was. A child of Avalon once, the world had use for anyone who could wield a sword and every life you took you did so in the name of the One God. Honorable to the creed of the light and the blade, a warrior through and through. They marked your sword and bid you to rise, this too was done in tribute to the savior of this realm, the missive that would some day be spread to the four corners of Taravell. The march of the white flame pressed on, even in death your sword was for hire, and your loyalty would never falter.

CONNECTS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

this skeleton is currently open

[eterna-memories]

[dino--draws]

My hand slipped hella I have Legends Brainrot(tm) 

So have this... banner? Poster? Something moderately terrifying?  No idea but woooooooooooooooooooooo

[iyru]

some maplestory doodles *u * ft eterna guild (gMS luna) lead and juniors

[maverickflare]

workin on another oc

[lukissed--a]

“According to this, there’s a rumor that the Old Chateau used to be the HQ for a guild of some kind? Like...centuries ago. Want to go check it out?”

[jollylax]

I might call the guildmaster Harmonia... It's a pretty name and it fits serperior. Originally I was thinking of naming everyone warrior cats style and I was gonna call her Newleaf or Leafstar, but then I decided not to.

[miasmaforest]

A quick sketchadoodle because whoopsies I ship my Harbinger, Jay, with Ramus a bit now

[teamconductors]

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Lost Tracks of Time, Chapter 21

Summary: The team just needs to take care of some last-minute stuff before they enter the Coronet Mountain dungeon to go to Spear Pillar.

Author’s Note: For the non-AO3 people, you should know that this chapter’s title is “They Need Therapy.”

Thank you @furiouskettle for turning the twins into Sneasels!

(Shippers DNI)

The Pearl Guild was in chaos. The halls, usually bustling from teams held off from their duties due to recent events, were empty. New scratch marks and loose papers littered the rooms. Outside the main buildings, various teams scrambled about while collecting supplies. Some prioritized healing items while others stocked up on food.

Kleavor and Ursaluna talked with Irida, so that left Arcanine and Avalugg to deal with the teams. Arcanine acted like a messenger and delivered meals from the kitchen to the teams. The meals arrived in record time without spilling a drop of the curry. Avalugg, not having as much experience and mobility, settled on listening to the different team’s troubles and strategies.

At the training grounds, Sneasler, Ingo, and Emmet met with Chandelure and Eelektross to explain what they learned and why they needed to get to Spear Pillar. Dishes from their meals were stacked off to the side.

“Okay, that explains some things…” Eelektross held a hand under his chin. “But I don’t get why we’re bringing Emmet...”

“Not you, too,” Emmet said, betrayed. “I am getting better.” He took off his coat and unwound the bandages around his chest. His gem no longer looked like it wanted to disintegrate off his chest, but it more closely resembled Ingo’s forehead gem state when Emmet first saw it.

“Emmet, can you even stand right now?” Eelektross asked.

Emmet, who sat on the training ground sidelines next to Ingo, stood up. He also reapplied the bandages.

“…Okay. But can you walk?” Eelektross asked.

The Sneasel proceeded to walk around the grounds with his straight arms and legs swinging about. “I am Emmet. I am ready.” And then he proceeded to trip over his own feet.

“Emmet!” Ingo and Sneasler jumped to attention.

“I am fine!” Emmet pushed himself up into a sitting position. His knees and palms of his hands were scraped. “I only need to remember how to walk with these claws.”

“That’s a little concerning… But you’re doing better than when Ingo’s gem cracked…” Eelektross briefly wondered if it was because of which gem cracked. “But still, if you all are right and the pokemon responsible for this mess is at Spear Pillar, Emmet needs to rest instead of risking himself.”

“We are a team, and I am in the team,” Emmet said. “You can come with us if you are worried.”

“What?! Of course, I am! Did you really think I wouldn’t go with you?” Eelektross’ body sparked from the accusation. “I just don’t agree with the decision…”

“I understand your safety concerns, Eelektross,” Ingo said. “But fret not. Emmet is strong enough for the trip! I know it!” Despite his usual expression, Ingo’s frown quivered as he held back tears. His gaze even turned to the side.

“THAT’S IT!” Sneasler grabbed Ingo and Emmet by the scruffs. “You two. We need to talk. You other two, just hang out here or something.”

She carried them off to a clear corner of the guild grounds, far away from the others. It provided the team a view of the western half of Sinnoh up to Eterna Forest.

“Sneasler, what did you want to discuss?” Ingo asked as he and Emmet were sat down.

Sneasler held her hands flat together and held them in front of her mouth as she thought of how to say her thoughts. “…Why are you two like this?”

“What, us being Sneasels? Well, based on Emmet’s recollections, we were attacked while travelling through time, and that seemed to have triggered a transformation,” Ingo said.

“No. Ingo. You’re a pokemon rescuer. Why the hell are you devaluing yourself when we need to rescue another pokemon?” Sneasler asked. “Like, forget that it’s Giratina. This is just another mission. You helped – no, you’ve saved lots of pokemon already. Why are you doubting yourself now?”

Ingo’s eyes widened. “Well… I… see where you’re trying to steer this conversation, Sneasler.” He fidgeted with his hands. “I don’t disagree with your assessment, and yet…”

“And yet?” Emmet repeated.

Ingo paused to collect his thoughts. “It is difficult to believe that someone with a mind held together by ‘duct tape and rusty screws’, someone whose main role is to assist others, someone who failed in carrying out a mission and needed backup in the form of another chosen hero, could… do what needs to be done today. Even my own body failed upon a minuscule amount of stress recently!” He pointed to his forehead gem.

“Oh, Ingo…” Sneasler sighed – not out of frustration but out of pity. Sneasler pointed at Emmet. “Hey, are you okay with hearing Ingo devalue himself and you taking his role?”

“I’m not okay with it.” Emmet glared at Sneasler. Though his smile stayed on his face, his eyes showed that he wasn’t. He accepted Ingo’s offer to be the hero to ease Ingo’s stress, but Emmet realized that it wouldn’t make Ingo better.

“Then tell him that.” Sneasler pointed at Ingo and at the ground.

Emmet looked at Ingo. Though it would be hard for anyone else to detect, Emmet recognized the look of concern on his brother’s face.

“…I want to defeat Volo and rescue Giratina. But I want you to be with me,” Emmet said.

“Is that because of “my” duty, or is that because of your anxiety?” Ingo asked.

Emmet’s heartbeat spiked. “You’re not wrong. My anxiety is a major reason.”

“Oh, by the Almighty, why are you guys like this?!” Sneasler asked. “You guys were so determined and confident!”

“I blame Arceus,” Emmet said. Arceus took Ingo and sent him to a location where he couldn’t succeed as himself. Arceus’ cruelty led to his own spiral into mad depression when he was human and dissociation from his transformation into a Sneasel. Emmet just wanted to protect what he cared about, but Arceus sharply derailed their original courses.

“Who the fuck cares about Arceus?! You’re Ingo and Emmet! I’ve seen what you little shits can do. Emmet: you said you’d work on your anxiety, so prove it! You like spiting people, so do it to spite Arceus or Volo or yourself, whatever works! Ingo: you may not have directly saved the world in Hisui, but I can tell you without a bit of doubt that you helped a lot of people anyway! So what are you two gonna do? Sit in this station and drown in sorrow or are you gonna do what you always do and kick ass?!”

“…You are right, Sneasler, and I always appreciate your worry for our safety and well-being, and I do want to be better,” Ingo said. “But I can’t repair my issues as quickly as you think, most certainly not in time for this mission.”

“I know that! I know it’s not easy! I know it’s not quick!” Sneasler’s fur stood on its ends. “When Mom died… I… was not great. I was an ass. I pushed Dad away… If it wasn’t for Electrode…”

Sneasler paused upon seeing Ingo and Emmet’s great interest and concern in her story and realized how much she was pouring her heart to them. “My point is, I know it’s not easy. Emmet, you need to ease your anxiety. Ingo, you need to build up your confidence again. The question is, will you two do it, like I know you can?”

The twins were left in silence to ponder.

Naturally, Ingo broke the quiet. “I’m sorry for attempting to assign my responsibility to you, Emmet.”

Emmet nodded. “Sorry for accepting it.”

“I do want to accept the responsibility, which I think is why I was nervous about not being qualified,” Ingo said. “…I want this to be my next destination. I want to conduct us to Spear Pillar with speed!”

Emmet truly smiled, and his eyes appeared to sparkle. “Yes. We should defeat Volo!” Even though he couldn’t say it well, hearing Ingo devalue himself hurt deep within him. Emmet cared for Ingo, but he only recently remembered how long and how much he looked up to him. To see Ingo look down when he was supposed to look up…

“Yes! Let us rescue Giratina!” Despite his heart racing, Ingo found himself happy from accepting his new destination – not because Arceus or the Nobles told him to, but because it was his choice.

“And I’m gonna keep an eye on you two so you actually make progress, got it?” Sneasler moved her point between both twins.

“Understood,” Ingo and Emmet said.

“Well, that decides that…” Eelektross and Chandelure listened to the entire conversation despite Sneasler’s efforts to give them privacy.

“But for now, shall we make our last-minute preparations and depart?” Ingo asked.

“Yeah. Even with the Distorted floor stuff and me climbing the mountain to skip some of it, it’ll be a long ass trip,” Sneasler said.

“Team Conductors!”

Ingo and Emmet looked toward the voice. It was Irida, and running up with her was Chatot, Lian, Palina, Calaba, and Gaeric. Chatot held something wrapped in cloth with his mouth. Lian and Gaeric both balanced woven baskets on their heads.

“Lord Kleavor and Lady Ursaluna told us what you lot are doing,” Chatot said. “These are from Riley.”

“Coronet Mountain is a big ol’ dungeon, so I got you fellas some apples for the road, too,” Lian said.

“And I got you some meds! Gotta stay healthy and strong,” Gaeric said.

“Please come back in one piece. I do somewhat miss your presence in my library,” Calaba said.

“I noticed that your friends don’t have any accessories, so tell me what you think of this.” Palina grabbed from her satchel an insomniscope and a special band. She gave the former to Eelektross and the latter to Chandelure.

Chandelure used Psychic to drape the band around their arms. It looked like it would slip from their wireframe at any moment.

Eelektross tentatively put on the specs, barely fitting around his face. “Now I really feel old…”

“Ah, that’s right! My and Emmet’s caps are customized to increase our strengths, but we never got the chance to get you two specialized equipment,” Ingo said. “We can ask Anthe for assistance once we are done with our mission.”

“Sneasler needs a cap, too.” Emmet pointed at his hat and grinned even wider.

“No, I don’t!” Sneasler said a little too loudly.

Irida stepped forward from her group. “Ingo and Emmet… As Chatot mentioned, we got a briefing about your journey to Spear Pillar, a location no rescue team has reached since it got swallowed by the impossibly vast Coronet Mountain mystery dungeon. I don’t think I can begin to understand the magnitude of your mission, but all the teams here will follow ours to rescue everyone trapped in the dungeon. On behalf of the Pearl Rescue Guild, we wish you luck on your journey and mission. And on behalf of myself… you two and your team is something else. Out of all the places we all can be in this vast world we live in, I’m glad we met!”

“Irida was the leader of the Pearl Clan, and the other Wardens for the Nobles were Lian, Calaba, Palina, and Gaeric,” Sneasler said.

Ingo gave the other pokemon a smile and took the other gifts. “Thank you, everyone. Do not worry. Team Conductors will reach our destination! Is there anything you would like to add before we depart, Emmet?”

Emmet nodded. “Follow the rules. Safe driving! Follow the schedule. Everybody smile! Check safety. Everything's ready! Aim for victory! All aboard!"

***

At Mt. Coronet, Sneasler with her basket of Sneasels climbed the mountain with expert precision. Eelektross and Chandelure flew next to her, barely capable of keeping up with her speed. Though the area around the guild was cool but comfortable, the chill in the air grew stronger as they climbed higher.

Though Emmet was the most accustomed to the cold, he shivered as he remembered his trip with Elesa, as well as their arguments. The last thing he saw of Elesa was her horrified face…

“You know, I think Chandelure and I could carry you…” Eelektross said.

“Why? Does it look like I’m going slow?” Sneasler asked as she practically hopped with each step.

“N-Never mind…” Eelektross had to consciously fly faster than his normal pace to stay with Sneasler, so he decided not to argue back.

“Hey, guys, wanna know something funny?” Sneasler asked. “Where we’re headed is pretty close to where I found Ingo.”

“Is that so?” Ingo asked.

“Wild, right? …Funny thing. I remember seeing a black spot on the mountain and thinking, “Oh, that kinda looks like that one Warden’s coat from here”. And then I got closer and was like, “Wait, that actually looks like his coat, that’s weird.” You can probably guess what I was thinking when we met and you told me your name. Dunno how I kept it together back then…”

“How ironic. You knew more about me than I did!” Ingo said.

As Emmet’s memories waned in their anxiety-enduring control over him, he thought of the promise he made to his siblings to better himself. “…Ingo, I want to explore some of the dungeon without you,” Emmet said.

“You want to try our strategy now? Are you sure?” Ingo pointed to Emmet’s bandages.

Emmet nodded. “I am Emmet. I am sure.”

“…Very well. I imagine Eelektross would want to go with you and Chandelure with me. …Sneasler, would you please keep an eye on Emmet?” Ingo asked.

“Sure, I guess,” Sneasler said.

“Thank you, Sneasler. And Emmet, would you like the normal map, or would you like to use the Arc Watch?” Ingo asked.

“The watch is yours.” Emmet took the watch off his wrist and offered it to Ingo.

“…Oh. Right.” Ingo placed the watch back on his wrist. It fit perfectly, and he noticed the map of the outside of Mt. Coronet. “I suppose it is mine, after all.”

Sneasler focused on climbing as fast as she could. Eelektross focused on keeping up with her as the air’s temperature dropped as he rose. Chandelure happily followed everyone without a care for what happened when they reached their destinations.

This left the twins in a comfortable silence and allowed Ingo’s mind to wander through the scraps of his memories. Then he recalled the memory the Lake Trio showed him.

“…Emmet, you saw the Lake Trio’s vision of Volo, correct?” Ingo asked.

“Yes,” Emmet said.

“By any chance… did you feel a chill down your spine during the vision?”

Emmet’s eyes widened. “Yes, I did. You did, too?”

“A spine chill? Like, I know the guy was creepy but-“ Sneasler stopped climbing for a moment once the realization hit her. “I’m sorry, are you two suggesting that the Lake Trio was ambushed by monster houses?!”

“Do have an alternative reason for both Emmet and I experiencing the spine chills we receive from detecting monster houses?” Ingo asked.

“They would’ve said something about being attacked by several pokemon!” Sneasler continued climbing once she realized she stopped.

Emmet’s eyes widened. “I had a strange thought. You both remember when you were chained and almost chained?”

“Don’t remind me.” Sneasler felt a twinge of pain in her heart.

“I heard a voice when I was removing Ingo’s Chain,” Emmet said. To be more exact, it wasn’t a literal voice but a will from within the Red Chain. But he did hear its voice.

“Was it Volo’s?” Ingo asked.

“Nope.” The memory was vague, as he was simply focused on trying to prevent Ingo from falling to the Red Chain. But he remembered that voice, and it was not the Beheeyem’s monotone voice.

“So… he’s not alone?” Eelektross said.

“It appears so!” Ingo said. “But if Volo is not acting alone, then who is helping him?”

“We will find out,” Emmet said.

***

“H-Here it is!” With one last pull, Sneasler launched herself up onto a ledge.

Eelektross and Chandelure followed her and found themselves in front of the mouth of a cave. The impossible darkness inside absorbed the light of the sky, shrouding the inside of the cave from view.

Eelektross shivered. “Th-this climb b-better have been wwworth it…”

“We b-basically just skipped half the dungeon,” Sneasler said as she took off her basket. “…S-Still have a hundred floors to go, though.”

“Thank you for saving us time on our journey, Sneasler!” Ingo said. Staying inside Sneasler’s basket for the climb kept him warm. When he and Emmet stepped out into the cold, Ingo stiffened up but had his coat to keep him relatively warm.

“Y-You’re lucky you got the b-best climber on your side,” Sneasler said.

“Chandelure and Eelektross flew up here,” Emmet said. Ingo proceeded to cover his brother’s mouth with one hand.

“Y-Yeah, and Eelektross is a couple of degrees away from turning into the world’s largest popsicle. Can’t believe I’m thankful for Chandelure…” Sneasler saw Chandelure smiling and almost bouncing in the air as they approached her. “D-Don’t let that get to y-your head!”

“Once we enter the dungeon, we cannot change course. Is everyone prepared for departure?” Ingo asked.

“P-Probably should have asked that when we were at the guild,” Sneasler said.

“Astute point, but I was referring to mental preparations,” Ingo said.

“Follow the rules and drive safely! We are headed for victory! All aboard!” Emmet marched into the cave entrance, followed by Ingo, Sneasler, Eelektross, and Chandelure.

Team Conductors entered the Coronet Mountain mystery dungeon.

[floaroanemoia]

{Headcanon}

     While Sarana does make quite a liveable amount of money escorting people between Jubilife Village and the Alabaster Icelands through her home, she is not the only one from the Floaro-Eterna area that does as such. Oftentimes, people cannot see the benefit in risking their life to get from A to B in a quarter of the time, and so occasionally jobs are few and far between. Not only that, but Sarana is still actively searching for Shaymin across Hisui, leading to periods of time where she simply cannot be doing both tasks at once-- where she will prioritise helping her home. Thus, during the quieter moments, or ones where she cannot fulfil those requests, the woman has long had to turn to other sources of income.      And, luckily, the answer was one that she did not have to search all that long for.

     Collecting various plants and materials, Sarana quickly found that crafting remedies for pokemon or people, to help with illness or fatigue, was a rather efficient way to earn some money on the side, but not compromise herself or her goals. And this would be something that the medium would continue, picking up whatever she found along the way, until four years prior to the events of Legends Arceus-- when she would encounter and befriend Neem, her Petilil. At first, the two had taken only to using the leaves atop her head to test teas that could help with fatigue, until one day, when Sarana had noticed that the aroma from the newly harvested ones had changed. That instead, they had anti-inflammatory properties.

     After thoroughly investigating the phenomenon, the pair had found that depending on the sort of soil Neem and other pokemon of the species gained nutrients from, the properties of the leaves-- and thus their benefit-- changed. In truth, what had been happening was the different nutrients absorbed, and other properties of the soil, altering what active compound was being produced by Petilil to give them an advantage in their environment, and some just so happened to have medicinal uses. Nevertheless, the beneficial effects ranged from the following, with the first being the easiest to produce/most common, and the leaves only being capable of one at a time:

Reduce fatigue

Anti-inflammatory

Anti-bacterial

Anti-parasitic

Cardiotonic

Analgesic

Anti-hypertensive 

Anti-hyperglycaemic 

Relaxant

     Alongside, obviously, being able to create potions to heal pokemon.

     And so, Sarana and Neem knew they had found something that they could use to their advantage, visiting specific places and marking different soil types on the woman’s map so they might start creating different remedies and teas to sell.

     Nowadays, these concoctions or teas are sold to merchants both inside and outside of Jubilife City-- with the latter only being given to Ginter of the Ginkgo Guild, due to the amount of labour required to properly dry and prepare the leaves without losing their medicinal properties.

[thequeendomhq]

THE ERROR ~

NAME. UTP AGE & BIRTH DATE. UTP SPECIES. Witcher FACTION. Thieves Guild OCCUPATION. UTP

You got out. That’s what mattered most. You survived the transformation from witch to witcher while so many of your friends did not. You made it out the other side of the programming and managed to keep your head above the water. Where others turned cruel and callous, you kept your eyes trained forward. Someday you would escape this Kingdom, someday you’d find yourself on the distant shores of Astoria or Lysara, perhaps the sands of Ankhuria or the fabled fortresses of Sinaria. Wherever you ended up, it had to be better than this. They knew, somehow they knew, and they pursued you but you were trained just as well as them. You evaded them just long enough to slip towards a Raider’s ship by way of ironwood longboat. Smuggled into Caribella, from there you landed upon the shores of Eterna. Witchers weren’t welcome here, but you could blend in, and when they learned that you’d set your past aside to make a new life here the thieves of Mercury’s Abode welcomed you within. Cemented with coins, you had no qualms about stealing from the spoiled if it meant you’d make it out the other side. If your past had taught you anything it was that you’d do just about anything to survive. Murder and treason were small prices to pay when freedom was on the other side.

CONNECTS

N/A

NOTES

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