Chapter 12 – Uncomfortable Truths

“…So what missions do the two of you plan to do today?”

That was the question of Serafina as Arian and Elvira were eating breakfast in the mess hall. It was the next morning, and after a lively dinner and a good night’s sleep, the two newly initiated mercenaries at the Irian Guild were having breakfast with two fellow mercenaries.

The mercenaries in question were Team Anima, a pair consisting of Serafina, a Meowstic, and Natalie, a Ledian. They had met them at dinner last night, and had quickly gleaned the basics of the respective members.

Art by Kitsu_19.

Serafina was from a noble background, as detected by her silver-spoon accent. But she was honest and earnest in her will to be a mercenary, and spoke of the need to help the common citizenry of Selenia in difficult times such as they were at present, a sentiment Team Elpis shared. Beyond that, she was talkative, and was a frequent asker of questions, eager to know the details and interests of her new colleagues.

By contrast, Natalie was not like this. She was nearly the exact opposite; quiet, reserved and someone who only chimed in on the odd occasion. This was mostly seen at last night’s dinner, where Serafina did most of the talking, and she really only spoke in introducing herself and when she was posed a question. Another striking difference between the pair was that while Serafina spoke with a refined, elegant accent, Natalie spoke with the accent of what Arian had later called a ‘southern drawl’ (much to the confusion of his partner, who chalked it up to being a ‘human term’). Both girls were from the Karelia oblast, a rural region in Selenia on the west coast of Ardalion, and both had forged a strong friendship, despite their difference in class.

“Oh…we’re probably going to keep it simple today, I think,” Elvira answered. “We’re only new, after all; it wouldn’t do to overestimate our abilities.”

“A wise choice,” Serafina commended. “That is part of the Mercenary’s Creed, after all; not overestimating what one is capable of. We are only mortal, after all. And even if we in Team Anima have attained Silver Rank, I admit that I still baulk at tougher missions.”

“Which is perfectly alright,” Elvira replied, after eating into a pancake topped with diced pecha berries. “Not everyone can be fearless. Some missions, even to the most seasoned of veterans, can be truly daunting. My dad’s had his fair share of missions like that.”

“Even Fernblade Kallias?” That was a fact that when revealed last night to her, made the Meowstic’s eyes shine in admiration and excitedly ask Elvira what growing up with the hero as her father was like. Now, she reacted with surprise at what the Treecko was saying.

“Dad and Melchior were very brave when it came to taking on missions,” Elvira told her. “But to say they could tackle any mission they were presented with would be wrong. Even they found there were missions that they couldn’t handle. …It taught me that even the most lauded of heroes are far from invincible. Dad himself insisted I saw it that way. Even he had shortcomings from time to time.”

“A fair point,” agreed Serafina. “But regarding your own capabilities, I would personally think the two of you would be able for missions beyond what Normal Rank offers. Being able to defeat Hinnerk, the leader of the Thorned Roses…that is no small feat. A sterling achievement, to be sure.”

“Yeah,” piped up Natalie. “Couldn’t imagine doin’ anythin’ like that…”

“It was hardly easy, though,” Arian pointed out. “And it wasn’t like we set out that morning with the intent to defeat him.”

“That does not downplay your accomplishment,” Serafina returned. “…But I am now fully curious. How did the pair of you, with Team Sandstream’s aid, manage to triumph over the boss of the Thorned Roses?”

“…That’s quite a story,” Elvira replied, just as she finished the end of her breakfast. “And as much as I would love to tell it to you here…I wouldn’t like to leave today’s mission waiting. …Another time, perhaps.”

“…Of course,” the noblewoman accepted. “I look forward to hearing that tale when you want to tell it. Oh, and good luck with today!” she wished, as Team Elpis got to their feet with their trays in hand.

Arian and Elvira gave the trays to Aldebrand, who returned them to the kitchen to be washed and cleaned. They then went to the main hub, where Sifis was sorting through mission requests, as he was the day prior. He turned around when he saw the duo approach.

“Hey, you two,” he greeted. “What do you feel like taking on today?”

“Hmm…” Elvira looked between the two boards. “…I don’t feel like taking on outlaws today. I feel more like doing a mission request. Does that suit you, Arian?

“Sure,” the Riolu accepted. “Now then…what do we have for us in Normal Rank?”

“…Well, there’s a few,” the Galvantula informed. “Most of them are what you’d expect – lost items and hunts for treasure. But there’s one that came in just this morning. This one here.” He reached for the piece of parchment in question, and unstuck it from the board, before placing it on the desk in front of him.

“Let’s see…” Elvira looked it over.

My wife Gráinne (Flygon) went to Scree Canyon yesterday to collect herbs for medicine, but she hasn’t returned yet. I implore you, Irian Guild – please find her!

– Diarmuid (Gliscor)

– Location: Scree Canyon (5F)

– Reward: 100P

“Hmm…The reward is 100P,” Elvira noted. “And…it claims that this Gráinne they want us to find is on the fifth floor of the Dungeon.”

“Sounds easy enough,” observed Arian. “Alright, we’ll do it.”

“Good. Take the leaflet with you,” Sifis instructed, handing the pair the parchment. “Scree Canyon…that’s not too far from here. It’s marked on your map where exactly it is.”

The Guild had provided Team Elpis with a map of Selenia, and upon taking it out, Elvira saw it marked on the map, near the tsardom’s eastern fringe and in the foothills of the Empyrean Mountains.

“True, that isn’t far from here,” Elvira remarked, noting the Dungeon’s short enough distance from Kamengrad. “We might even get to knock out another mission today, depending on how quickly we get this one done.”

“Well, let’s not waste any more time, then,” Arian said with feeling. “Come on, Elvira! Let’s head out!”

“You’ve got some spunk, kid. I like that,” complimented Sifis. “…Go on then, Elvira. Follow your partner.”

“…Very well,” Elvira replied, finding herself unable to suppress a smile at her partner’s exuberance.

…A good choice of partner, indeed.

---

“…Whoa…Those mountains are huge…”

After stocking up on items at the Kecleon Shop in Kamengrad, Arian and Elvira set out to the Empyrean Mountains. But while they were visible from Kamengrad, the former never truly realised how dominating the mountain range was until they came up close to it.

“Certainly, they’re huge. The biggest mountains Ardalion has to offer,” Elvira told him. “Some of these mountains’ summits reach above the clouds themselves. And because they’re so high up, they’re capped with snow all year round. Even now, despite this dry spell we’ve been having this summer.”

“Oh yeah…because temperatures decrease the higher up you go,” Arian stated, remembering a fact about altitude and temperature.

“I don’t like the cold,” admitted Elvira. “I’m more one for warmer weather. And I know what I said about this drought in Selenia. But…this kind of weather with more rain would be perfect. It would be a lot better than a Selenian winter, where snow covers everything and it’s bitterly cold.”

“Is that what winter’s like here?” Arian asked.

“Yes, and Grass-types like me fare poorly in the snow,” the Treecko answered. “You’ll be fine. Your fur will keep you warm.”

“…Hm. Didn’t realise that,” the Riolu muttered, looking over his furry body. “…What an unusual thing to have, fur.”

“Humans don’t have fur, do they?” Elvira wondered.

“Plainly not, otherwise I wouldn’t be feeling this strange about my fur,” Arian responded. “It’s really odd having it. Like a second skin, of sorts. …But I suppose, like just about everything in this world, it’s another thing I have to get used to.”

“On that note, Arian…how are you getting used to everything?” asked his partner. “…Do you feel as though you’re getting there?”

“…I suppose,” Arian replied, after pondering his answer for a short while. “I guess…some things have come more easily than others. And there are some things I still find hard to get over. Like all the different Pokémon of this world, and just how strange it is to be talking to them…Is there an encyclopaedia or something that tells me all about the different species of Pokémon there are? Because genuinely, it may be hard to keep track of them all…”

“…There might be something back at the Guild,” Elvira answered. “I do see your plight, especially for someone like you. It can make your head spin, to keep track of every species out there. It would be helpful for you to know the specifics of some species, at least, so you know what to watch out for if we ever encounter one.”

“That’s something for when we get back, then,” Arian decided. “But then I also have to learn how to write properly. And then I want to improve my moves with Galen. Oh, and then there’s needing to learn more about myself as a Riolu, and just what I’m capable of…”

“Take your time,” Elvira recommended. “Pace yourself, and do things one at a time. Don’t fluster yourself thinking about everything all at once. It’ll only seem more daunting that way.”

“…Good advice. Thanks for that,” Arian said. “…Good thing I have you as my partner, eh?”

“…At least that’s a thought we both have in common,” Elvira replied, smiling at her partner. She was about to go on further, but then she looked forward on the path along them, and stopped. “…Ah. Here we are.”

“The entrance to Scree Canyon…” Arian looked before him at what he saw, and the familiar opaqueness of a Mystery Dungeon’s entrance could be seen. “Are we ready to enter?”

“…We are. Let’s go in.”

---

Scree Canyon

1F

“Hmm…Which way to go?”

Arian posed that question as he and Elvira found themselves in the labyrinth of a Mystery Dungeon again. This one was different from the previous four Dungeons they had been in, in that rocky, craggy terrain made up the ground, and rock walls with visible strata made up the walls of the rooms and corridors.

“Let’s go that way.” Elvira pointed to a nearby exit.

“Alright,” agreed Arian. As they started down the path, he suddenly realised something. “…But let’s take a leaf out of Lillian’s book.” With his foot, he marked an X in the dirt by the corridor’s beginning.

“Oh, of course,” Elvira said, seeing what her partner did. “We must get used to doing that. Practice what we learn from others.”

“It’ll become second nature in time,” Arian responded. “Now…let’s find that exit.”

It didn’t take too long to find one. After dealing with a Geodude speedily, and wandering through two corridors and a room, they happened upon the stairs, and walked up them.

---

Scree Canyon

3F

“So on what floor was it again? The Pokémon we’re looking for?” Arian asked, as the duo climbed the steps into the third floor.

“The fifth floor,” Elvira answered. “Not yet, in other words. At least we don’t have to scour each floor like we did for Iona and Tamara. Official missions are able to determine the exact locations of where the Pokémon in need are. We need only search the floor they say it’s on.”

“That’s a relief,” replied Arian, who admittedly wasn’t looking forward to the thought of searching every nook and cranny of the mazes of yet another Mystery Dungeon.

The room they were in was a small one, with only two exits. One of them was taken, and marked accordingly.

Along the corridor, there were no encounters, but as they entered the next room, Arian saw an approaching Misdreavus.

“Hmm…Some kind of ghost, huh?” he observed. Ghost-types…My Force Palm won’t work against it, nor will Quick Attack. But…I do have another trick up my sleeve for instances like this. “Hang on, Elvira. I got this,” he said, and readied a Metal Claw, slashing the Misdreavus. This provoked an angry cry from the feral Pokémon, which then retaliated with its own attack: a bright yellow ray that encircled the Riolu.

“Huh? What was…” Arian broke off, as he suddenly began to feel dizzy. Then his vision began to swim and blur, and everything soon became a daze. What’s happening? No…I can’t fall unconscious. Not now…

At that moment, the image of the Misdreavus appeared before him, cackling with laughter at him.

“Gah! Stay away!” he yelled out. By instinct, he slashed at the ghost with Metal Claw again, hoping that would do it in. But instead…

“Agh! Arian! Snap out of it!” Elvira’s voice sounded, and Arian could detect the pain in her voice.

“Elvira?!” the Riolu cried out, alarmed. “Where are you?” In his dazed state, he couldn’t see where the gecko was, or anything coherent for that matter. Everything’s a blur…

“You’re confused, Arian!” the Treecko called back. “Hang on! Take this while I deal with the Misdreavus!”

At that point, something with a soft texture to it was shoved in his face. Arian didn’t know exactly what it was, but by instinct, he bit into it…and was surprised by the taste.

A berry…? Hang on, I’ve tasted this before…

Then it happened. Suddenly, the blurry vision and dizziness began to fade, and the human found his vision returning to normal. As it did, he caught sight of Elvira looking at him worriedly. Behind her, he spotted the sight of the Misdreavus in question fallen.

“Are you alright, Arian?” the Treecko asked. “Don’t worry about the Misdreavus. I dealt with it.”

“I…think so,” Arian replied. “Urgh…What happened? What did that Pokémon do to me…?”

“It used Confuse Ray on you,” Elvira explained. “That makes you dazed in confusion. Persim berries can be used to cure such dizziness.”

As she spoke, though, Arian couldn’t but notice that her voice was slightly laboured, as if she were hurt in some way. His eyes, focused once again, now had a clear view of his partner. And he then noticed the wound on her midsection.

“Elvira! Are you okay?” he said. “What happened to you? That…That wasn’t something that Ghost-type did to you, was it?”

“…No, it wasn’t,” the Treecko admitted. “You were confused at the time, Arian, and…it wasn’t your fault, really,” she added.

“Not my fault? What do you mean…” Arian trailed off, as he realised with horror what her words meant. “…I…I did that to you? When I was dizzy…I hurt you?”

“It’s alright, Arian. Nothing I can’t fix with an oran berry,” Elvira assured, taking out the aforementioned item and munching on it.

“But I hit you!” Arian protested. “Even if it was out of my control…you were hurt because of me. …I’m so sorry, Elvira! I should’ve been more careful around that Pokémon…”

“Arian, please! It wasn’t your fault,” Elvira tried to persuade. “The wound’s all healed up now. Please don’t think about it anymore. What’s done is done. Let’s move on, and forget about that little mishap.”

But despite Elvira’s words, Arian’s thoughts kept coming back to him. The idea that he could hurt his partner like that scared him more than anything. He had no idea confusion could make him confused enough to strike his own teammate.

“What was that you gave me?” he asked. “That berry that made me see straight again.”

“A persim berry,” Elvira answered. “I got one at the market, just in case. …I guess I was right to do that, because we did need it. It cures you of confusion like you were in. That Misdreavus used Confuse Ray on you. It’s fairly common for Ghost-types to know it, so watch out if you ever come across one.”

“Right,” noted Arian. I need to know more about the specifics of some more of what I’m facing. Because if I keep going blind into situations like this, it’s going to lead to trouble. Honestly, to think I’m facing problems like this right after I defeated Hinnerk…was that just dumb luck, beating him?

No, he denied. I defeated Hinnerk because I had allies by my side. Elvira and Team Sandstream. I still have them now, as well as a whole guild to help me out with my problems and what I need to know. With friends at my side, I can overcome anything.

He then inwardly cringed at that thought.

Okay, maybe not quite anything. …But they can do a lot to help me. That’s the point. I can’t be afraid of being mocked because I don’t know basic things. The Guild are my friends. If I need help…I need only ask them.

“Arian?” Elvira’s voice drew him away from his thoughts.

“Oh, sorry,” he apologised. “A bit lost in thought, that’s all. Let’s move on.”

And so the pair resumed their search for the exit.

---

Scree Canyon

5F

“It’s this floor,” Elvira said, as the pair ascended to the fifth floor of the Dungeon. “This is where the Pokémon in question is.” She looked at the parchment once again. “A Flygon by the name of Gráinne…hmm…”

“And a Flygon is…?” Arian queried.

“A Flygon is a green Ground/Dragon-type with wings and a long tail,” Elvira described. “It has large red eyes and looks a bit like a Bug-type. That’s what we’re looking out for.”

“I…see,” the Riolu processed. “You probably have a better idea of what to look for than I do. But I’ll do my best to keep a good lookout for what you said.”

“Flygon are quite big, too. It’s not like we’d be searching for a needle in a haystack like we were with Iona,” Elvira added. “This should be easy, hopefully.”

“Let’s hope it is,” Arian replied, with confidence.

The duo began their search, scanning all the rooms and corridors they went through for the Flygon. They took down any Pokémon that stood in their way, and picked up any stray items they found in each room.

Among the latter was a curious blue treasure box that neither of them could open.

“Hmm…Where’s the key for this?” Arian pondered. “Maybe it’s somewhere else on this floor?”

“Key…” Then it clicked for Elvira. “No. We take this to Julius’ Appraisal. He’ll get it open for us.”

“Oh yeah…” Arian realised, thinking back to the tour of the merchants the day before. “…Still…Julius, of all people?” He still remembered the unnerving smile and his overenthusiasm of the Banette, and wasn’t sure whether to put his trust in the ghost.

“…He might be a bit too passionate,” agreed Elvira. “But he’s probably good at his craft. And Ishmael says he’s a good man, so…I think that’s proof enough he can be trusted.”

“…We’ll worry about that later,” Arian replied dismissively, handing his partner the box to file away in their bag. “The Flygon’s more important for now.”

They resumed their search for the Mystic Pokémon. And luckily for them, they didn’t have to look for too long to find her. She was in a large room, looking around with worry written on her face.

“That’s her,” Elvira said. “No doubt about it. …Excuse me!” she called out to the dragon.

“Who’s there?” came the response. Then the Flygon’s eyes caught sight of the duo. “You…You’re not wild Pokémon, are you?”

“No. We’re mercenaries for the Irian Guild,” the Treecko answered. “Is your name Gráinne, by any chance?”

“Yes. That’s me,” the Flygon confirmed. “…I suppose Diarmuid must have sent a mission request to the Guild. Thank the heavens he did. I was starting to go stir-crazy in this blasted maze.”

“He did,” Arian said. “That was the requester’s name.”

“He’s my husband,” Gráinne explained. “He comes off as gruff and no-nonsense, but he’s a sweetheart, really. He cares very much for me, and he worries whenever I’m gone for too long. …Sometimes a bit too much. But that caring attitude is why I love him.”

“Let’s take you back to him, then,” Elvira proposed. “Just a minute…” She rummaged around in her bag, before bringing out the team badges…much to Arian’s confusion.

“Elvira, why did you take out our badges?” he asked, puzzled.

“…It’s better to show you than to try and explain it,” the gecko answered, before turning back to Gráinne. “Put your hand to the badge, and you’ll be teleported out of the Dungeon.”

“Okay.” Gráinne did as instructed. What happened was something that struck alarm in Arian. One minute the Flygon was there, the next…she had disappeared.

“Where’s she gone?” he asked worriedly.

“Outside the Dungeon,” Elvira answered calmly. “Don’t panic, Arian; she’ll be fine. Now…it’s time to exit ourselves.” She held up the badge. “Just touch it, and we’ll be out of here.”

“…If you say so…” Arian said, unsure of what was to happen. He, along with his partner, both touched their respective badges…and suddenly a bright flash of light occurred that forced Arian to shut his eyes.

But when he opened them again…he found himself in the surroundings of the foothills of the Empyrean Mountains, with the dominating peaks looming overhead. What ticked it off for him was the distinctly un-labyrinthine appearance of everything.

“Told you,” Elvira said, a victorious look on her face.

“…We’re out?” Arian asked, looking around him in amazement. “…But how? How did those badges get us out of there? I never knew they could teleport us out of Dungeons! …But how does that work?”

“…How they work doesn’t matter,” the Treecko decided to say. “What matters is that they are of help to us, in ways like this. It’s customary for mercenaries to do this after finishing a mission in the Dungeon they were in. What, would you prefer to tread through the rest of the Dungeon instead?”

“…I guess not,” the Riolu admitted. “…It’s good to have them, then. A few unanswered questions about how they work, but…maybe I should stop asking questions.” He turned his attention to Gráinne, who he saw was nearby. “So…um. I know this might sound like a stupid question, but what now?”

“We escort her back to the client in question,” Elvira answered. “…Where exactly would Diarmuid, your husband, be at this time, Gráinne?”

“Oh, in his shop, most likely,” Gráinne replied. “We run an apothecary’s, just outside Kamengrad. That’s where we live, the two of us. It’s just off this road, in fact, along a little boreen.”

“Hmm…We might’ve passed by an apothecary’s, actually,” Elvira recalled. “There was a sign for one on the road to the Empyrean Mountains.”

“That’s it. It’s down a small side road. I’ll point it out when we get there.”

But as it turned out, the Flygon did not even need to do that. At the point where the side road in question began and the sign for the apothecary’s was located, Arian and Elvira caught sight of a Gliscor coming up the side road.

“Ah! That’s Diarmuid!” Gráinne said excitedly. “Diarmuid! I’m over here!” The Gliscor turned his head, and once he saw the group, his worried expression immediately shifted to one of relief when he saw the group.

“Gráinne! There you are!” he called out. But hearing his voice sparked curiosity within Arian. Somehow, it sounded familiar…and as well as that, the Gliscor himself was a new sight for the Riolu. But his bat-like shape, with sharp pincers and fangs, and a bluish-purple colouration sparked Arian’s curiosity. Hmm…I wonder…

“I was getting worried,” Diarmuid said, once he had caught up to the group of three. “You were gone since yesterday evening, and I…I was afraid something had happened to you.”

“It wasn’t anything too serious, dear,” Gráinne assured. “I just had a bit of an unlucky run, that’s all. The exits kept taking a long time to find, and those Misdreavus were ever so mischievous with their uses of Hypnosis and Confuse Ray. I was also tired, and combined with the uses of Hypnosis, I managed to fall into a deep sleep. When I woke up again, it was morning. It just wasn’t my day, I suppose.”

“…Not all visits to Dungeons go smoothly,” Diarmuid murmured. “Even for those we regularly delve into. I’m just glad you’re safe. And…” He turned to Arian and Elvira. “…I thank you for going into Scree Canyon to rescue Gráinne. I can’t allow such kindness to go unpaid.” He dug out 100P for the duo, and gave it to them.

“Thank you very much,” Elvira said. “We’re always happy to help, as mercenaries of the Irian Guild.”

“That reminds me,” Gráinne said. “We never asked your names.”

“I’m Arian, and this is Elvira,” the Riolu introduced, choosing to be the one to introduce them for once. “And the two of us make up Team Elpis.” He allowed a small hint of pride to enter his voice. “This is our first mission, actually, now that we’re officially part of the Guild.”

“…Heh. Glad to be the first stepping stone on your journey,” Diarmuid replied. “The Irian Guild’s becoming a bit more lively now. Especially now that Ishmael, Axel and Lilian are home.”

“Oh, isn’t that great news?” Gráinne celebrated. “I was so worried for them, stuck in Ozerograd like that. …But they’re back safe and sound. I couldn’t bear it if anything happened to them…”

“…Do you know Team Sandstream?” Elvira asked.

“Actually, speaking of which,” Arian interjected, before the couple could respond. “Um, Diarmuid? You wouldn’t happen to be related to Axel by any chance, would you? It’s just that you look so similar to him…”

“Related to Axel? …Of course I am,” the Gliscor answered. “I’m the boy’s father.”

“And I’m his mother,” Gráinne added.

“His mom and dad? …Hm. I had a feeling that was the case,” murmured Arian. “Guess I was right on the money.”

“Gligar evolve into Gliscor,” Elvira told him. “I thought that might have been the case as well. …Quite astute of you to notice, Arian.”

“It appears you know my son,” observed Diarmuid. “Then again, as part of the Guild, you would know him. …I’m surprised it wasn’t him taking on this mission. That boy of mine better not have been sleeping in again…”

“I think Team Sandstream may have left early for a mission,” Elvira recalled. “They weren’t at breakfast this morning, so it might’ve been that.”

“…Hmm.” The stern look on the Gliscor’s face softened. “At least he’s keeping busy. He and Ishmael were always boisterous and got up to mischief when they were young ones. Good job Lillian’s there to keep them in line.”

“If you see them, tell them we send our regards,” Gráinne said.

“We will,” Elvira promised. “Stay safe, you two.”

“We hope to see you again,” Diarmuid said with hope. “Come stop by our shop sometime, if you wish.”

“We’ll think about it,” Arian said. “Bye, you two!”

With that, Team Elpis continued down the road back to town, while Diarmuid and Gráinne went down the road to their shop.

“Axel’s parents…Who would have thought it?” Arian said. “Wait till Team Sandstream hears about this.”

“You do sometimes make connections like that in mercenary work,” Elvira pointed out. “It’s not uncommon for family of guild members to ask a favour of the Guild. …Who knows? Maybe Mom will make a request one of these days. When she’s better, hopefully…”

“How do you think she’s getting on?” Arian wondered, as they neared the town’s edge. As buildings came into view, he suddenly realised something as he caught eyes with one of them. “Actually, there’s an idea. If you want to find out how she is…then send her a letter.”

Elvira looked over, and saw the Tropius Carriers building. She was then reminded of what she said yesterday, of writing a letter to her mother once they’d settled in.

“…I said I’d do it later this week, but…I might write it a bit sooner than that,” the Treecko decided. “I don’t want to keep Mom in suspense for too long.”

“Maybe you could get started when we get back to the Guild?” suggested Arian.

“…Maybe I will,” was Elvira’s reply. “Come on. Let’s get back there so I can begin.”

---

A few days later…

“Come back soon!” called the Tropius that ran the Kamengrad branch of the Tropius Carriers.

“We will!” Elvira called back. “Make sure that letter gets to my mother!”

“I’ll see to it, otherwise my name isn’t Yasen, leader of the Kamengrad Tropius Carriers!” returned the Tropius, as the duo closed the door.

“…Enthusiasm sure comes in spades with merchants, don’t they?” Arian commented, as they walked down the street back to the stalls.

“They have to be enthusiastic to pitch their business,” Elvira reasoned. “If they can’t do that, the money will dry up and they’ll go hungry.”

“That’s fair,” accepted Arian. “Oh, and speaking of enthusiastic merchants…” His eyes looked over at Julius’ Appraisal. “…We never did get around to getting that box unlocked, did we?”

“We didn’t,” Elvira confirmed. “We have it on us…I guess now’s as good a time as any.” She started towards the stall, and Arian followed. Julius happened to be whetting a dagger when he caught sight of the duo heading for his stall.

“Ah! Customers!” the Banette expressed. “Welcome to my beautiful house of knives. However might I serve you? Any lovely treasure boxes for me to dice the locks off?”

“…We do,” Arian said, trying his best to ignore the expectant and sinistrous glint in the merchant’s eye. Elvira took out the box in question, and took out the money required to pay.

“Good, good! Brilliant, brilliant!” Julius said in acclamation. “I’ll have this lock diced apart like a Weavile’s claws to butter!” He brandished his dagger. “This will be a cinch!”

The Banette plunged his dagger into the keyhole. With a few twists, he managed to crank the box open, much to the duo’s surprise.

“Wow…that was quick,” commented Arian.

“As it should be,” Julius grinned. “The Guild don’t request my services for nothing, you know. …The reward in there is yours for the taking.” He turned the box around for the team to see.

“…Money,” Elvira noted.

“Typical of a treasure box,” Arian remarked. “Might as well take it. Or…store it in Klefki Bank?”

“That sounds better,” Elvira agreed. “We’ll do that. Keep it for a rainy day, perhaps. …Thanks very much with this, Julius.”

“No problem,” the Banette replied proudly. “If you ever find any more treasure boxes…then you know who to call for.”

“…Right, Elvira. Let’s get back to the Guild,” suggested Arian, as the two left Julius behind. The Riolu, despite seeing his skill at his craft, still felt uncomfortable around the Banette. “I want to get back to practising my writing.”

“…You are improving,” noted Elvira, recalling her partner’s activity in this regard. He was beginning to get the hang of holding a pen, and would practice writing in the evening in their room. This, he coupled with his studies of Pokémon through books that had been given to him, and sometimes combined them in an effort to drill the information deeper into his brain.

“It still isn’t great, though,” Arian lamented. “My handwriting still looks really bad. Honestly…when will it get better?”

“With practice and effort,” the Treecko encouraged. “Don’t worry, Arian. Your writing skills will improve with time.”

“…I guess so. Still…I wish that time would come faster…”

The two continued their trek to the Guild, and reached the well. Arian’s previous fears about the height had lessened, though every once in a while he did get slightly nervous about descending into the Guild. It didn’t greatly impede anything, though; the Riolu merely saw it as a small snag to overcome. Nothing more than that.

When they reached the Guild’s main area, however, something was plainly afoot. Every member of the Guild was gathered there, plainly as an audience to something.

“What’s going on?” asked Elvira to the gathered crowd.

“Oh, you’re back!” Lillian cried. “Just in time, too.”

“Why? What for?” Arian queried.

“The Chief’s back,” Ishmael informed. “And he’s got some news for us about what’s gone on with ‘im.”

“He’s just gone to the office to prepare some things,” Axel elaborated. “He’ll be out in a sec.”

“We should get to the front. That way, we have a good view,” Elvira advised Arian.

“Agreed.” Arian could see her point; he wasn’t able to see the front at all, due to the fact that most of the guild members were taller than the two of them. They walked around the side of Aldebrand, the tallest of all the Guild, who acknowledged their presence, before they both stood at the front, near to Terran (who, unlike Aldebrand, ignored them) and Rhiannon, along with two others he hadn’t seen before: a grey dinosaur-looking Pokémon with blue markings on its skull and back, and a lilac-furred quadruped with a red gem on its forehead.

“So you’re the new recruits that everyone speaks of,” observed the latter, an Espeon. “I don’t believe we’ve been introduced. I am Isaac, one of the two members of Team Mindfist. A pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“And I’m Lex!” pronounced the other, a Cranidos. “Good to meet you. Hey, if you ever want a sparring match sometime, just ask me! I’m up for one anytime!”

“…Hmm…I might just take you up on that,” Arian considered. “I could use some skill-honing myself.”

“Great!” Lex celebrated. “How about later on, if you’re not busy?”

“Maybe. We’ll see.”

“Quiet, you two,” Galen interrupted. “The Guildmaster’s come back.”

And indeed he had. Team Elpis saw the Swampert once again as he came out from the path to the office. As he got ready to address the Guild, he caught eyes with them, and gave a nod of acknowledgement to them.

“Thank you for all gathering here,” Melchior began. “Thank you all for keeping the Guild intact while I was away. It was reassuring to know that you all kept things in order, and our mercenaries continued to fulfil their requests in our never-ending quest to help the people. And on top of that, I am pleased to hear that our new recruits, Team Elpis, are settling in well, and that we have all given them a warm welcome. I am grateful to you all, truly, for an astute performance during my absence.

“But that is not the reason why I have called you all here today. I called you here to inform you of recent developments in Ozerograd while I was there, and how the town has shaped since the removal of the Thorned Roses. …Of course, it could not have been done without the combined efforts of Team Elpis and Team Sandstream, and I would like to once again thank them for overcoming the daunting challenge laid before them.”

A round of applause greeted the two teams. Both teams felt honoured at the praise.

“…What about Ozerograd?” Elvira asked, once it had died down. “How is the town?”

“I am happy to report that everything is going well,” Melchior informed. “The organisation of the volunteers has helped to keep the town stable despite the absence of a leader. I stayed there to help keep things in order, and to ensure that it would remain that way upon my departure. Just about all traces of the Thorned Roses are gone from the town; all of their graffiti has been cleaned away, and all of the evicted townsfolk have been returned safely to their homes. The town has definitely become much cheerier as a result of the volunteers’ effort. It is a safe haven…for now. But…whether it will remain that way is another story. And I fear that on the horizon lies a dark cloud that will wash away that peace.”

“What do you mean?” Arian asked. “What dark cloud?”

“I refer to Mitrofan,” the Guildmaster answered. “Obviously, the news of the Thorned Roses’ defeat reached him in Iria. A few days later, envoys from him were sent to Ozerograd to make an offer to the people there. To them, they offered an alliance, and an assurance that the days of the Thorned Roses would be no more.”

Murmurs arose amid the guild members. Arian heard a few remarks, but the one that stood out to him was behind him, where Ishmael whispered to his teammates, “Betcha it’s a scam.”

Hmm…based on what I’ve heard, I’d be inclined to believe him.

“What did they say?” Elvira asked. “Did they accept the offer?”

“…There was divided opinion over it,” Melchior revealed. “Many haven’t forgotten the prior partnership between Hinnerk and Mitrofan that allowed Hinnerk to remain as the leader of Ozerograd for five long years. They expressed that to the envoy. But…on the other hand, many of the townsfolk are tired of constant oppression. Anything, to them, is better than the five years they experienced. They would be satisfied with peace of some form, even if it was the likes of Mitrofan orchestrating that peace.”

“But Mitrofan’s a tyrant too, isn’t he?” Arian asked, putting up his paw as he spoke as a polite gesture. “Why would they settle for being led by him?”

“A good point. But..the truth is that some view him as a lesser of two evils,” Melchior elaborated. “Some think he wouldn’t be half as oppressive as Hinnerk. As long as they do not oppose his rule, he will allow the people to carry out their business as usual. That was what the envoys promised. And that, for some of the townsfolk…would be perfectly fine.”

“So what was decided?” Aldebrand asked.

“…It was a difficult choice,” Melchior replied. “I was tempted to advise them to reject any notion of working with him. But…a number of townsfolk voiced their fears of potential retribution should they do so. Between them and those who were all for opposing Mitrofan…I decided to come to a compromise, and advise them to negotiate terms with Mitrofan with the hope of striking a deal in favour of Ozerograd’s citizens. It wasn’t long after this that I left for here. With luck, they may be able to strike a favourable deal.”

“…Do they know you were there, Guildmaster?” Galen inquired.

“They did,” confirmed the Swampert. “But I never showed my face to them. How do I know they weren’t trying to apprehend me and present me to Mitrofan? Most collectively agreed that I shouldn’t show my face to the envoys, and so it was arranged that I would remain out of sight while the envoys were in town. In order to leave town, I made sure to lay low, and I was lucky enough to not be followed.”

“…So your approach was a pragmatic one, then,” surmised the Medicham. “Mitrofan is our enemy, at the end of the day. But…we must think of the people, too. For the short term, at least, this may be the wiser move.”

“Um, Chief, can I ask a question?” Lillian asked, raising her right claws.

Arian couldn’t help but notice something at this point. When the Sandslash said the word, ‘Chief’, he couldn’t help but notice an annoyed huff from Terran. What’s his problem? wondered the Riolu.

“What about Hinnerk? And the Thorned Roses we rounded up?” she queried. “What about them?”

“…They are currently still locked behind bars,” Melchior answered. “Nearly all of them resent their current circumstances. It’s proven to be trying, keeping them in line. …On more than one occasion, some wondered why we were keeping them alive. But I stood my ground. Mercenaries do not kill, even in circumstances like this. Thus, they remain living, but imprisoned. Of course…there is little doubt that they will attempt an escape at some point in the future. The volunteers have vowed to remain vigilant should they try such a thing. I will also return to them in time, to see how things have progressed in Ozerograd.

“That is all I have to say. You are dismissed.”

The guild members took this as an opportunity to return to their respective areas: Aldebrand to the kitchen, along with Terran and Rhiannon, Galen to the dojo, Raya to the infirmary, and Sifis to the mission boards. Teams Sandstream and Anima returned to their dormitories, while Team Mindfist followed Galen to the dojo.

That left Team Elpis alone. Arian turned to Elvira, and was about to ask her what she wanted to do, but he was interrupted by Melchior calling out to them.

“Arian? Elvira? I wish to speak to the two of you. Would you come to the office?”

“…Of course,” Elvira replied, and followed, with Arian doing the same. The latter saw her face light up in realisation, as if knowing what was to come. The Riolu realised it too, at that moment.

Is he going to tell us what happened to Elvira’s dad?

This thought struck a note of nervosity in Arian’s heart. What does he know? If it’s something that he’s held off for this long, and the fact that Kallias still isn’t here…A dark feeling grew in his chest. Please don’t let the truth be what I think it is…

They entered the office. Looking around, Arian couldn’t see any visible changes; it was the same office he had entered a few days prior with Aldebrand and Team Sandstream. This time, though, it was only him and Elvira, and the Guildmaster himself was here on this occasion. The Swampert sat down behind the desk, and Team Elpis took their places on the other side.

As they did this, Melchior took a breath, as if to calm his nerves. That was the greatest emotion exuding from the Swampert, as detected by Arian: nervousness and anxiety. Like we thought; he’s afraid to tell the truth. Oh dear…This doesn’t bode well…

“…How are you two?” Melchior began. “I hear you are settling in well to life as mercenaries.”

“…We are,” Elvira answered. “We’ve done some missions throughout this week, and no major incidents have occurred. It hasn’t been too difficult, and it’s been nice to receive thanks from our clients. It really does feel like we’re making a difference. Not to mention, Arian’s been getting good experience for his moves and abilities.”

“Yeah…” That, Arian could agree with. Slowly but surely, he was gaining more knowledge on moves through field experience and reading about them, and was getting used to exploring Mystery Dungeons in the missions he and Elvira did. On the other hand, though… “It hasn’t been all smooth sailing, though. Remember what happened earlier this week?”

“Are you still brooding over the Misdreavus?” Elvira said. “I told you already, Arian; I don’t blame you for what happened. You were confused at the time. Don’t get in a heap about it.” She turned to Melchior to explain. “A wild Misdreavus used Confuse Ray on him during a mission earlier this week, and he accidentally attacked me in his confusion.”

“Ah.” Melchior nodded in understanding. “I’ve had that happen to me before. It happens to the best of us, Arian. I wouldn’t fret about it if I were you.”

“…I suppose,” Arian said, though it didn’t fully erase his guilt over attacking his partner. To change the subject, he returned to the good parts of the week. “The Guild’s been really kind and helpful to us, as well. They’ve given us all kinds of helpful advice for adventuring, and they’ve helped us feel right at home here in these new surroundings.”

“That’s good to hear. So all is going well with the two of you, then,” the Swampert summarised.

“Yes. It is,” was Elvira’s reply.

A silence passed. And quickly, it became an awkward one. Everyone in the room knew exactly what was to be discussed. And everyone knew the meaning of what it would be to have those details divulged. But given the sensitivity of those details…it was understandable that the unease in the room would be thick enough to cut with a knife.

“Melchior…” Eventually, it was Elvira who spoke. “…Why have you really called us here? It can’t just be to ask how things are going with us, is it?”

“…It isn’t,” the Guildmaster admitted. “I haven’t forgotten our conversations in Ozerograd about this. I said to you on both occasions that it wasn’t the time to discuss it. But…I’m not going to put it off any longer. No more procrastinating. No more stalling. The more I keep doing it, the more mistrust that will develop between the two of us, Elvira. And that’s the last thing I want right now.

“What happened on the day of your father’s disappearance…I’m ready to tell it.”

…As we thought.

“Um…before we begin, can I ask something?” Arian queried, as a thought came to him. “Should I…be here? This is a delicate matter between you two, isn’t it? I don’t want to make things awkward…”

“You aren’t making things awkward, Arian,” Elvira promised. “We’re a team, remember? We always look out for one another. If what happened turns out to be…a sad truth, I want there to give me some comfort if I need it. And besides…aren’t you curious to figure out what happened to Dad?”

“…I am. But…this sort of feels like your thing. …How do you feel about it, Melchior?” Arian asked the Swampert.

“I have no problem with you being here, Arian,” Melchior answered. “My reasons are much the same as Elvira’s; teams should be there for one another during moments like these, when uncomfortable truths have to be revealed. To shoulder one another’s burdens is one of the many facets of working as a team.”

“…I see what you mean,” the Riolu said in understanding. “So…what did happen to Elvira’s dad? Or Fernblade Kallias, as everyone calls him?”

“…” Melchior paused, wondering where to begin. “In the aftermath of the assassination of Tsar Kliment and his family, Kallias and I, along with a number of other mercenaries, were outcasts following Mitrofan’s seizure of power. It would go against our creed to support he who had murdered the royal family in cold blood. In response, he declared us outlaws, and bounties were put on all our heads.”

“…I remember that,” Elvira said, her expression becoming bitter in remembrance. “Dad came home to us, holding a wanted poster of himself. He was desperate to move us out of the country, over to Miletos where we would be safe. But Mom wouldn’t budge. She refused to go there, especially with me.”

“…Why would she do that?” Arian asked, confused. “Why wouldn’t she go there?”

“…I haven’t told you about Miletos, have I?” Elvira said. “…I’ll tell you another time. The short version is that if I were to move to Miletos, then, when I was thirteen and full of aspirations, my dreams of becoming a mercenary would’ve been killed stone dead by the attitudes and traditions of the people there. It might’ve been risky, staying here…but I can understand why Mom didn’t want to move to Miletos.

“I just wish Dad agreed with her.” Sadness crept into her voice. “There was a lot of arguing between them about this. They got along so well as a couple. They rarely argued at all. …Hearing them argue like they were the worst of enemies was heartbreaking. I never want to experience that again…”

“It’s okay,” assured Arian, giving her a comforting pat on the back. “It’s in the past.”

“…Thanks, Arian,” Elvira said, grateful for the support. “But Melchior,” she asked, going back to the topic at hand. “What was all this about ‘a secret mission’?”

That drew a sigh from the Swampert. “…Mitrofan was a good man before all of this. Stern, but reasonable, just, and right-minded. What would compel him to kill the tsar and his family in so bloody a manner? Kallias and I were both intent to find this out. We wanted to unearth the cause behind his sudden change in behaviour. We tracked down eyewitnesses to what he was doing prior to the assassination, and what might have happened to warp him. We found nothing definite…but suppositions of people seemed to lead us to the Empyrean Mountains. Thus…that was where we headed.”

“…Um, I have another question,” piped up Arian. “Elvira, how did you know about their ‘secret mission’?”

“Dad told me,” Elvira elaborated. “Before he and Melchior left for that mission, he came back to see us, where he told us about their findings. He was annoyed he hadn’t found anything substantial, but in his optimistic way, he held out hope that he would find something. The next morning, after breakfast, he left for the mountains.” A wistful look came into her eye. “That…was the last time I saw him.”

“Oh…I’m sorry to hear that,” Arian offered, not sure what else to offer other than condolences.

“I met Kallias in Lukomoria,” Melchior went on. “We began our trek up the mountains, to search for clues as to Mitrofan’s sudden shift. But…something was off with Kallias. He mentioned having an ominous feeling of foreboding, as if something bad was going to happen. He couldn’t place exactly why he felt this way, but…he was uneasy, as we went into the mountains.” He looked to the side, in regret. “…Maybe I should have taken that as an initiative to turn around and go home, even if he insisted otherwise. Especially given what happened next…”

“…What happened next?” Arian queried.

“…” Melchior remained silent at first. His face was ridden with guilt and remorse, as he considered his answer. “…We were…heading for a village in the mountains, supposedly one by the name of Forynun. We had heard rumours that this fabled village existed high up in the mountains, and we hoped that it could yield the answers to our questions. If nothing else…at least it would be a good place to hide from Mitrofan’s authority.

“During that trek…was when it happened.”

---

Five years ago…

“Do you really believe this Forynun place will hold the truth about what happened to Mitrofan?” Melchior asked, as he and Kallias made their way up a rocky gradient.

“…I don’t, to be honest,” admitted Kallias. “But we’ve come this far. Now’s not the time to give up.”

“…You don’t have to keep doing this, Kallias,” the Swampert said, worried for his partner. “If you’re still uneasy about doing this…then we can always retreat and do this again. It’s not we’re under time pressure to find it.”

“I’m fine,” Kallias shrugged off. “It’s probably just nerves playing at me. Everything will be fine. I just have to keep telling myself that. Really, Melchior, I’m okay.”

Melchior was about to ask, “Are you sure?” but chose to hold his tongue. That was the same question he’d asked over and over whenever the Sceptile’s unease showed. It’s not like him to be like this, he ruminated. …What if something does happen, like he fears? I’d much prefer to quit and go home, if something ominous is on the horizon…

They continued their hike up the mountains. They weren’t high enough on the mountains that they were in snowy territory, and even if they were, they would be treading on dangerous ground. Specifically, because past a certain altitude, such terrain was forbidden to be in unless they had been granted special permission from the Church, for they classed the lands there as sacred to the Creator. That was something Team Marshwood did not have, or many others for that matter. Even high-ranking nobles had difficulty obtaining permission.

Could Forynun be in that forbidden area? pondered Melchior. Mmm…I’m not fond of the idea of treading on religious ground. After becoming outcasts in Selenia, it would be a bad move to alienate the Eastern Alliance because we disobeyed the Church’s protocol. Would it be worth it to find out Mitrofan’s secret? Maybe not…but we’ll see how far we can we reach the restricted area.

Soon, they came to a noteworthy point. High rocky slopes lay to either side of them, and a dominating gorge lay before them, with a rope bridge across it. Below the bridge, in that ravine, lay a rushing, tempestuous river.

“A bridge?” noted Kallias. “Hmm…Who made it, I wonder? Where we are isn’t exactly a well-travelled route. “

“…Is it safe to cross?” Melchior looked down into the narrow valley, and immediately wished he didn’t. “That’s quite a drop…and that bridge doesn’t exactly look the sturdiest.”

“…Rope bridges never usually are,” Kallias pointed out. “Not compared to stone bridges, anyway. …But it seems like it’s the only way across. Besides…it’s not like this is the first time over a rope bridge. Just don’t look down and we’ll be fine.”

“…” Melchior was about to protest, but realised what his partner said about there being no other way across was probably true. Given the sheer steepness of the gorge, and the remoteness and altitude of where they were, the chances of another bridge close by upstream or even downstream were slim at best. As much as he didn’t want to admit it, the rope bridge in front of them was the best way across.

“…Very well.” His tone suggested great unease. “Oh, what I wouldn’t give to have wings like a Pidgeot to fly across with…”

“We should only go across one at a time, so we don’t put too much strain on the bridge. …I can go first, if you want,” offered the Sceptile.

“No,” Melchior denied. “I’ll go. The sooner I cross, the sooner I won’t have to worry about crossing it.” He took a deep breath, and began to cross the bridge.

Kallias’s statement was indeed true; the bridge showed signs of instability, with the odd creaks and groans here and there. The Swampert’s unease held up, but he did his best to not look down, and with immense relief, he made it to the other side.

“Whew,” he breathed. “Thank Arceus that’s over.”

Over at the other side, he saw Kallias begin his journey across. The Sceptile wasn’t as tentative as Melchior, for he was not as frightened of heights as his partner was. He was careful, though, taking care not to shake the bridge too much, and he mostly succeeded, due to him being lighter than his partner.

He was soon halfway across the bridge. However…it was at that point that disaster struck.

Suddenly, without warning, the ground began to shake with a great and powerful force.

“An earthquake?!” Melchior cried out in alarm. “Kallias, quick! Get off the bridge!”

“I’m trying!” Kallias called back. But the tremors were swaying the bridge greatly, making it difficult to advance steadily. That wasn’t to say he didn’t move forward; despite the fierce shaking, he managed to get to around three-quarters of the way across. He was nearly to the other side, and was about to rejoin his partner on solid ground.

However…fate had other plans.

On the other side that they had crossed from, the quakes had destabilised the rock slopes. With the shaking intensifying, the faces began to crumble, and heavy rocks began to fall down. A fast-moving rockslide occurred, and quickly blocked the path Melchior and Kallias had come up.

But that wasn’t the worst of it. In its path of destruction…the rope bridge’s supports lay. And when those were quickly swept aside…the bridge had no point of anchorage for one of its sides, and subsequently gave out…while Kallias was still on it.

Melchior watched this in horror, realising what was about to happen.

“No! Kallias!”

Worse still, he could do nothing. He couldn’t jump in to save his partner – he was too far away to grasp hold of and bring him to solid ground. The only thing he would accomplish would be him joining his partner in the latter’s precarious situation.

Kallias tried hard to jump to his partner on the other side. But the bridge had already given out from under him, and he couldn’t manage such a move with no ground on which to stand. He was in freefall, and plummeted into the river below.

“”AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!”

A piercing splash sounded, amid the rumblings of the earthquake. Melchior saw his partner disappear into the raging river below.

“No! It can’t be! This can’t be happening! Kallias! Kallias!”

---

“…No…” Elvira’s eyes were wide, in disbelieving shock. “Please tell me it’s not true…!”

“…I wish I could say otherwise,” lamented Melchior. “But…that was the last time I saw Kallias, being swept away by that cascading river. And not just any river. The River Agrios…an infamous river that mostly flows through Miletos. A short river in its run to the sea, but a deadly one. They say if someone is swept away by its rapids, there’s a high chance they’ll never be seen again. Multiple people I spoke to attested to this fact, and a number had known people whose lives had been claimed by the river.”

“…Dad…” Tears entered Elvira’s eyes. “…Dad’s gone…? S-Swept away by a river…?”

“…Hang on a minute, though,” Arian said, not wanting to fully believe that all hope was lost. “Surely it’s not impossible that Kallias survived? Surely not everyone who was swept away that river was lost forever?”

“…I thought that myself too, after what had happened,” Melchior replied. “I refused to accept that Kallias was truly gone. But while I was lucky to be mostly unharmed by the earthquake, I was trapped by fallen rocks for some time, and it was a good few hours before I could safely extricate myself from it, and down to the river. I spent many days along that river, scouring for my partner all along it. I also visited nearby villages to gather potential witness accounts. But alas…no clues were unearthed. I’ve continued to search along the Agrios River in all the five years since Kallias disappeared, but still nothing. In truth, I want to believe my partner never perished in the river, and that he’s still alive and well somewhere. But…” A grim look came into his eyes. “…Five years without evidence to this isn’t a good sign.”

“Oh…” A crestfallen expression flashed across Arian’s face.

“…So that was why you said he was ‘missing’, when you came to inform us about him,” Elvira said, emotion filling her voice. “You never truly believed he was gone. …But why, Melchior? Why did you keep what happened to yourself? Mom and I…we were worried to no end about what happened to Dad! We deserved to know!” Tears came in greater quantities now, and the Treecko began to audibly sob.

Melchior flinched at the look of hurt in her eyes. “I…didn’t have the nerve to speak the truth. I was a coward, and couldn’t work up the courage to inform you of what really happened. The truth that I wasn’t able to save Kallias…That hurt me more than anything. At a time when my partner needed help more than any other time…I couldn’t help him. I wasn’t able to help him. As his mercenary partner…I failed him. And subsequently, I have failed you, Elvira, for not keeping your father safe.” He bowed his head in sorrow. “I’m sorry…No amount of apologies I give you will ever be enough…”

“…” Elvira had no words for him; she only continued her sobbing.

“…There, there, Elvira,” Arian comforted, patting her on the back. His attention then turned to Melchior. “…Is that why you were nervous about confessing? Were you afraid Elvira would shut you out because you couldn’t save her dad?”

“…Yes,” Melchior admitted. “And I wholly regret not plucking up courage sooner to tell you the full story. I made a grave mistake, and I can’t apologise enough for it. But…that’s why I want to work together with you now, to make up for my previous failures. If I couldn’t save Kallias, I can at least keep his daughter safe.”

“…Elvira, don’t shut him out,” Arian recommended, his voice soft in recognition of his partner’s fragile state. “I’ll agree he didn’t handle the whole admitting the truth business well. …But he’s the best ally we have right now. Surely you can forgive him for this? …If you don’t, things will only become awkward between the two of you. It’ll get worse the longer you leave it, just like with what Melchior had to deal with.”

The Treecko didn’t reply immediately. Given how shocking the revelation had been for her, it took some time before she was in a state to utter a reply.

“…I suppose,” she eventually said softly, her voice shaky after her crying. Once she had composed herself enough through breaths and clearing her throat, she began again. “…My grievance is more about you withholding this, Melchior. I’m not mad that you weren’t able to save Dad. By the sound of it, you couldn’t do anything, given the circumstances. But you are still Dad’s partner, and something like an uncle figure to me. I can forgive you, Melchior. Just…promise me you won’t keep such a great secret from me again. …Please?”

“…I promise,” pledged Melchior. “You have my word.”

“…Thank you.”

“Oh, but while we’re on the subject of secrets…I’d like to ask you something, Arian.” The Swampert’s gaze fell on the Riolu. “Is it true what I was told about you by Aldebrand? That you claim to be a human?”

“…Yes, that’s true,” Arian confirmed. “I know it sounds hard to believe, but…”

“It’s alright, Arian,” assured the Guildmaster. “I don’t think any less of you for it. I admit it is a strange claim to make, but I can see that you are a just person with morals in the right place. That’s enough to see you as a good man in my books. …Regardless, I understand your reservations about being called a human, and I’ll keep it to myself.”

“Thanks, Melchior,” the Riolu said gratefully.

“It is no problem, Arian. …And continuing with secrets…there is something I need to be honest about. But I’d rather not say it to everyone for fear of morale loss. …Can I trust you two to keep this quiet?”

“…Of course, Melchior,” Elvira promised. “What do you want to say?”

“…When Hinnerk said that I was hiding Kallias away to unleash him at a time of uprising…I wish he was correct. I’d love nothing more than Kallias to be here, and able to help me with running and building up the Guild. Without him…I don’t feel as confident going forward. Of the two of us, he was the more proactive, dynamic one, whereas I was seen as the one who kept him grounded and down-to-earth. He was always grateful for that, but…the truth is that he gave me the confidence to keep him in check. I’m indebted to him for that. He was the greater half of the whole that was Team Marshwood…and without him, I fear that people will be able to see for themselves that fact.”

“No, Melchior,” Elvira denied. “That’s not true. You’re still incredibly capable in your own right!”

“…Indeed. I’ve done my best to try and fight as a lone unit in the past while, as opposed to what I’ve been doing all of these years. But…it’s not the same as fighting with my partner,” Melchior said downcastly..”We built quite a reputation, the two of us. But Kallias’s disappearance has left a great hole in my heart, and thus it’s only now that I’ve come out of the woodwork, alone. And now people may well be expecting me to head a revolutionary movement to overthrow Mitrofan…” He shook his head in dismay. “The Guild, I can handle. But a figurehead of rebellion? …The thought makes me uncomfortable, to say the least.”

“…I get it. That can’t be an easy thing to have weighing on your mind,” Arian sympathised. “…But we’ll still stick by your side, Melchior, whatever ends up happening. Won’t we, Elvira?” he asked his partner.

“…Yes. It’s what Dad would want, if he were here,” Elvira seconded. “He would want us to work together. And he’d also want you to keep on going without him, Melchior. …If it’s any consolation, I doubt Dad would be comfortable either, if he was in your shoes.”

“…No, indeed,” agreed the Swampert. “…Thank you both, for hearing me out. Those were some worries I wanted to get off my chest. But please, like I said, keep it under wraps.”

“Don’t worry, Melchior. Your secret’s safe with us,” promised the Treecko.

“…You’re a good pair, the both of you,” Melchior praised. “In fact, given the good work you’ve done this week, and even prior to joining the Guild…I think the two of you should be promoted to Bronze Rank.”

“Really?” Arian’s ears pricked in surprise. “Already?”

“Yes. You two deserve it, given what you’ve accomplished. And usually, it doesn’t take a long time for new mercenary teams to climb up to Bronze Rank. It’s perfectly attainable for newcomers; it’s not surprising you’ve earned it this early. It certainly didn’t take Kallias and I long to earn Bronze Rank after we became a team together. And we definitely didn’t do as great a service as to dethrone a gang leader like Hinnerk before even joining a Guild. You’ve definitely earned the promotion.”

“…Wow. Thanks, I guess,” the Riolu replied. “So…what does that mean for us now?”

“It means greater rewards for the missions we complete,” Elvira explained. “Also, we’ll be deemed capable of taking on tougher missions, which are worth more in terms of money. …Do keep in mind, though, that climbing the ranks will be harder from here on out. It’ll take a lot more effort to get us to Silver Rank.”

“No problem,” Arian waved off. “That’s nothing we can’t handle, the two of us.”

“And I have no doubt you’ll reach that point before long,” Melchior predicted. “…But before I let you go…there’s one more thing I have to give the two of you.” He got up, and went over to where an adventurer’s bag, presumably his, lay. He dug into it, and pulled out two items that made Elvira gasp in shock.

Specifically…two items of fabric, one blue and one green.

“…What are those?” Arian squinted to look. “Are they…scarves?”

“They are, indeed,” Melchior confirmed. “Both of them were knitted by your mother, Elvira. She wanted to give them to the both of you.”

“…Mom…knitted them?”

“She did. Just as she did for the two of us, back in the day,” he reminisced. “…We loved them. They gave us a new look that we liked, and nearly everyone complimented us on them. …You two would benefit from a similar look, I feel. …Oh, and on that note, I already told your mother about what happened to Kallias. …She was sympathetic, saying it wasn’t my fault and that Kallias wouldn’t blame me for what happened. …He was lucky to have someone like her by his side…as are you, Elvira.”

“…She’s so kind…” Elvira sounded like she was about to cry again. “…Oh, Mom, thanks so much…”

“Here’s yours.” Melchior gave her the blue scarf. “And here’s yours, Arian.” He gave the Riolu the green scarf.

“…This is pretty nice,” Arian complimented, liking the feel of the garment. “I’ll try it on later.”

“…What about your scarf, Melchior?” Elvira asked. “Where is it? Why aren’t you wearing it?”

“…I still have it,” the Swampert replied. “…As you recall, it was green, to represent the bond between Kallias and I. …However, it doesn’t feel right to wear it, not when he’s not by my side. That’s why I simply haven’t donned it. But…a day may come when I put it on again. Maybe if I need him to give me strength for a tough battle…I’ll wear it once more.

“He still has a strong influence, that man. …I do hope, one day, I can see the face of my partner once again…No matter how slim the chances, I…still hold out hope that he’s out there somewhere…”

“…Maybe so,” Elvira said, a small tinge of hope in her voice. “…But let’s not forget what we just said. He’d want us to continue on without him.”

“Of course,” accepted the Guildmaster. “…Well then. I believe that’s all I have to say to you for now. It should be near dinnertime. I’m beginning to get hungry. Are you?”

“…Yeah,” answered Arian, suddenly realising the growing empty feeling in his stomach. “I could do with some grub.”

“Well, let’s head, then,” Melchior suggested. “If it’s Aldebrand cooking, it’s never a meal you want to miss. And I’ve missed enough of his meals this past week.”

And with that, the three left the office to head for the mess hall. Mixed emotions raged in all their hearts, but all three were willing to look on the bright side of things. In a world of adversity and hardship, when mishaps had occurred…it was the least they could do.

For that was something their absent comrade would want of them. What happened to him, they knew not…but two of them did have a good feeling as to what he would want.

And keeping an optimistic view was most certainly one of them.