Somewhere Around 9-10 Years Ago, A Bit Closer to the Latter - In a Dwelling Somewhere in the Celadon Sprawl

-A certain Cubone is sitting by a window at night time, this marking her second or third month in captivity, filled with a rather deep longing for some different surroundings-

-... This was all a huge mistake... I should have never left. Yes, home had fiends... And death... And Yellow Dart was a jerk... But it had my tribe... My clan... My family...-

<Kat (Cubone): "(I wonder what's been going on...)">

-Tracer's been nice, and his mons are too... He's much different than those humans in the black clothes that the lorekeepers talked about... But I wanna go home! I want to see everyone! Why can't he understand that?-

-And looks out the window, and notices a full moon-

-W-What if someone died? M-Mom did before I even hatched... And h-how would I ever know? H-How would I ever be able to s-say goodbye?-

-Starting to tear up-

-I just wanna go home...-

-And starts to cry-

<Kat (Cubone): (*sniffle*)>

-The sound of a couple figures rushing in can be heard-

"Kat? What's wrong? Why does this keep happening?"

-Embracing the tearful bone lizard-

<Vlad (Gligar): "Aww... Are you okay?">

<Kat (Cubone): (*sniffle*) "N-No...">

"We're here for you... Is there something that we can do, Kat?"

<Kat (Cubone): (*sniffle*) "I just w-want to go home again! I t-told you already!">

<Shaun (Flaaffy): "I thought that you said that you had fun being around us though, Kat...">

-Giving a bit of a swat with her club-

"OW! Geez!"

<Kat (Cubone): (*sniffle*) "I d-did, you n-numbskull! B-But I want to s-see my dad! A-And Yellow Dart!">

<Iggy (Wartortle): "(Oh dear...)">

<Shaun (Flaaffy): "(Psst! Iggy! Where does Tracer keep that map of his?)">

<Iggy (Wartortle): "(There should be one in a drawer, but wh- Oh... I see where you're going...)">

"Huh? Did Shaun say something to you, Kat? Wait- Iggy! Where are you going?"

-And shadows after Iggy along with Vlad and Shaun, still cradling an upset Kat-

-Rooting through a drawer-

<Iggy (Wartortle): "I think it's in here...">

"Eh? What are you looking for, Iggy?"

-And pulls out a map of Kanto's routes-

<Iggy (Wartortle): "Here we go...">

-And unfurls it, and points at Route 9-

"Eh? Route 9? Wasn't that where we got-? ... Oh."

-Looking at Kat-

"(... You wanna go home, don't you?)"

-Which elicits a nod from the still sniffling bone lizard-

<Kat (Cubone): (*sniffle*) "Wh-Why was that s-so hard to f-figure out?!">

A Couple Days Later - Route 9

-A certain Cubone is in yellow body paint, in higher spirits than a couple nights ago-

<Kat (Cubone): "You're going to love it! We've got dwellings where we all get together at night, and everyone's got colorful markings, and the elder's nice, and-">

<Vlad (Gligar): "Are they all huggable like you?">

<Kat (Cubone): "Uh huh! Uh huh! I'm sure they'll all like you, Vlad! I mean sure, you're scary-looking, but you're nice!">

-Aside-

"(... She got herself painted... I guess this means that she's not coming back...)"

<Iggy (Wartortle): "What did you say that your tribe was called again? The 'Crop Tribe'?">

<Kat (Cubone): "No, that's my clan! The Crop Clan is a part of several tribes! My tribe is the Umber Tribe!">

<Shaun (Flaaffy): "(... Does it really need to be that complicated? I mean, what's wrong with simple 'herds'?)">

-And reluctantly takes out her Pokeball and toys with it-

"(*sigh*) (I'm sorry that we couldn't make you happy, Kat... I hope home does a better job of that for you...)"

-Catching sight of a marker denoting a trail that members of her line would take off beyond the Route-

<Kat (Cubone): "We're here! We're here! This way!">

-And begins to dart off along the trail-

"... Goodbye, Kat..."

<Iggy (Wartortle): "Eh? What are you doing? Kat wanted us to come along!">

-Backtracking, and jumping up a bit-

<Kat (Cubone): "Tracer! I said it was this way!">

-And notices me just standing there-

-Giving a bit of a swat on my leg-

<Kat (Cubone): "Hey! Don't just ignore me like that!">

"Ow! Kat! I thought that this was what you wanted... That you wanted to go back home... (To leave us...)"

<Vlad (Gligar): "Huh? But she's been talking all about showing you her friends and family ever since we left Cerulean!">

<Shaun (Flaaffy): "(Doesn't this whole 'Tracer not really understanding you' thing get kinda old, Iggy?)">

<Iggy (Wartortle): "(It complicates things sometimes, yes.)">

-Shaking head-

<Kat (Cubone): "Eh? I never said I wanted to leave your team! I like it! I just wanted to go home! And... Well...

... I wanted you to see it too...">

"I... I don't understand what you want, the- Whoa! Iggy!"

-Is shoved from behind by the Wartortle in the group-

<Iggy (Wartortle): "I know this is rude, Tracer. But trust me, you'll thank me for it later.">

-Darting ahead again-

<Kat (Cubone): "This way! This way!">

"Okay! Okay! I'm going! Geez!"

<Kat (Cubone): "Heh, maybe we can get you painted too, Tracer!">

A Bit Over 9 Years Ago - A Street Somewhere In Celadon

-I am walking around with a party of 5 Pokemon, cradling an incubator containing the egg of the mon that would eventually be named Audrey-

"Heh... What do you suppose that this little guy's going to be like?"

<Kat (Cubone): "It could be a girl, you know!">

<Iggy (Wartortle): "Actually, the odds are kinda against you on that one, Kat. Riolu usually hatch male with humans for some reason.">

<Vlad (Gligar): "Whatever it turns out to be, I'm sure it'll be adorable!" ^v-v^>

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Mmph. Who cares?">

<Shaun (Flaaffy): "Because you're going to get a new teammate soon?">

<Sonny (Murkrow): "You're not my teammates. Moya bratki are my teammates. You're just a razdrazhenie that I'm putting up with until I'm tough enough to take the bratva for myself and moya bratev i sester.">

-Leering-

<Shaun (Flaaffy): "... I would suggest you watch your attitude, bird.">

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Or what?">

???: "Hey kid!"

"Huh?"

-And turns to notice a young woman and young man clad in a mostly-black cap, shirt, and skirt and pants respectively with gray boots in an outfit that some of the members of what is now called the 'J-Team' would find familiar. The two appear to be accompanied by two mons each, a Zubat, a Cubone, a Houndour, and a Rhyhorn-

Female Rocket Grunt: "You've run into a surprise toll, pay up!"

-Assuming a battle stance-

<Iggy (Wartortle): "I'd suggest that you tell your trainers to take a hike.">

-Crackling a bit with electricity-

<Shaun (Flaaffy): "Yeah! We're not going with you!">

-Yelping, more than a little startled-

<Rocket!Houndour: "Yipe! W-We're not asking for th-that, h-honest! J-Just have your human give some of those p-paper and m-metal things over!">

<Rocket!Zubat: "You're not top percentage enough to take away from your human anyways.">

<Rocket!Houndour: "(Sh-Shut up, pl-please!)">

<Sonny (Murkrow): "You're seriously worried about these mudaki? Let's just plow them and call it a day!">

-Sizing up our foes and carefully weighing up options-

"... And why should I pay again? I mean, my mons outnumber yours, not vice versa. And I sincerely doubt that most of your mons are going to enjoy fighting with my Wartortle. Or hey, I could take a scenic detour. It'll take me all of what, two extra minutes?"

<Rocket!Houndour: "(Ulp.)">

<Rocket!Rhyhorn: "Oh come on, they don't look so tough... Why I could probably run over any of 'em with my eyes closed!">

<Vlad (Gligar): "Good luck with that, you meanie! I can glide faster than you can run!">

-Leering at the Rocket Cubone, brandishing club-

<Kat (Cubone): "Your tribe must be so proud of you...">

<Rocket!Cubone: "Mmph. I'm just doing what a normal mon is supposed to and respecting the Vow. Or does yours not follow it?">

-Cutting me off from behind-

Male Rocket Grunt: "Oh, I don't doubt that some of your mons can fight... But can that egg of yours fight?"

Female Rocket Grunt: "It would be dreadful if anything say... Happened to it... Don't you think?"

"You wouldn't."

-It is at this point that the four Rocket mons focus their attention on the incubator-

<Rocket!Houndour: "(G-Guys? C-Couldn't we try this on m-mons that c-can't horribly mess us up?)">

<Rocket!Zubat: "Better help your human make a decision fast, you guys. Or we could make it for you...">

-Pawing at the ground-

<Rocket!Rhydon: "Heh... It'll be just like busting a pinata...">

-Easing out of battle stance, with a seemingly paralyzed look-

<Shaun (Flaaffy): "Uh... (Iggy? What do we do now?)">

<Vlad (Gligar): "(... Why couldn't they have been cute and not creepy jerks?)">

-To the four mons-

<Iggy (Wartortle): "Grr... This is low... Even for you!">

-Hastily trying to force the Rocket Cubone to stand down-

<Kat (Cubone): "(Ugh... Oh crud...) Look at you! You're seriously about to throw a club at an egg? Do you think the dead are just going to take that?">

<Rocket!Cubone: "It's just a fiend egg. I sincerely doubt they would care.">

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Oh for the love of-! This idiotizm ends now!">

-And barrels towards the Rhyhorn's flank-

"SONNY, WAIT!"

<Sonny (Murkrow): "CAW!">

-And is quickly Thunder Waved and drops out of the sky onto the sidewalk-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "ARGH! SHAUN! KAKOGO CHERTA ETO VASHA PROBLEMA?!*">

*"What the hell is your problem?!"

-And is hastily recalled-

Female Rocket Grunt: "Smart sheep... So what's it going to be, kid?"

"Ugh... How much?"

Male Rocket Grunt: "Whatever you've got. We run a toll that's progressive by income here!"

"(*grumble*) Yeah, yeah."

-And throws the contents of my wallet, about 4000 Pen or so onto the sidewalk and hastily puts as much distance as possible from that patch of sidewalk with team-

About 30 Minutes Later - In a House In a Back Alley

-I am treating a certain Murkrow for paralysis, who is still rather upset about being attacked by one of his own teammates-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Eto glupo, ya pomogal!* So why do I suffer because of it?! And we could have taken those gopniki!">

* "This is stupid, I helped!"

"Yes, yes... I know that it hurts, Sonny! Please, calm down!"

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Some team this is!">

"... That could have turned out a lot better, huh...?"

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Gee, vy dumaete?">

"You understand why Shaun did that though, don't you?"

-Irately-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Because he's a tupitsa, that's why!">

-While applying Paralyz Heal-

"... I'm going to guess that's a 'no'... I'm not sure if you can understand this... But... It was because there was someone that we really didn't want to lose in all of that..."

<Sonny (Murkrow): "And just who was-?!">

-And happens to see the incubator on the counter-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "...">

"... You understand, don't you?"

<Sonny (Murkrow): "... (Maybe I need to put a bit more thought into this whole 'taking over moya bratva' thing than I thought...) ... I think so... But this I'm still not happy about this!">

-And beats his wings to try and restore sensation in them-

-Putting arm out to serve as a perch-

"Come on, I'll take you around a bit... My treat."

<Sonny (Murkrow): "... Fine.">

-And hops onto my arm, still looking at the incubator-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "(You'd better do one heck of a job making them happy, mutt! You owe me!)">

PEFE HQ - Around the Events of DS' PC Antics in Sinnoh

-A certain Blastoise is approaching a Buizel that appears to be rather startled-

<Iggy: "Oh hey there, little guy...">

-Looking frantically for a way to escape... And realizing that he is cornered-

<Milo (Buizel): "I-I- M-Meep! Tr-Tracer! H-Help me!">

-And curls up and starts to cower-

<Iggy: "Huh? Have you never seen a Blastoise before?">

<Milo (Buizel): "N-Nhuh? N-No...">

<Iggy: "It's alright! It's alright! I don't bite... Even if the jaws don't look the part. We're mostly fish-eaters, by the way...">

<Milo (Buizel): "O... Okay...">

-Uncurling... And receiving a pat from the Blastoise in return-

<Iggy: "See? That wasn't so bad, was it?">

<Milo (Buizel): "B-But you're h-huge! And you've got a mouth full of sharp teeth!">

<Iggy: "Actually... I don't have that many... See?">

-And opens mouth to reveal a mostly-toothless, if still powerful maw-

<Iggy: "It's alright if you're jumpy... Lotsa things seem scary to us when we're small... It'll wear off as you get older and bigger.">

<Milo (Buizel): "Huh? But everyone else seems so big! (Uh... Except maybe Vlad and Gene...) They really were scared of things once too?">

<Iggy: "Heh... Yes... Even they were...">

-Tilting head-

<Milo (Buizel): "Oh? But... Like what?">

<Iggy: "Well... Don't tell anyone that I told you this, but...">

In a House in Greater Celadon - Several Years Ago

-A certain Riolu is curiously poking at a vacuum cleaner-

<Audrey (Riolu): "Huh? What's this?">

-And accidentally turns it on-

<Audrey (Riolu): "EEEEEEEP!">

-Flailing, attempting to silence the whine of the vacuum with some kicks and punches-

<Audrey (Riolu): "Go away go away go away-!" *yelp*>

-And manages to get her tail caught by the hose-

-Coming in from another room-

"Audrey? Are you alright? What's going-?"

<Audrey (Riolu): "Tracer! Tracer! H-Help! It's e-eating me!">

Outside a House in Greater Celadon - Several Years Ago

-A certain Murkrow is attempting to fly into a house-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Heh heh heh... Glupyye sosedi! If you leave your change out like that, it's just asking for-!">

-And runs into an unseen presence-

<Sonny (Murkrow): CAW!>

-Picking self off of ground-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Chtoeto-?!">

-And runs into the unseen presence... Again... And Again... And Again-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "Argh! Why can't I get in?!">

"What on earth is that bumping-? Sonny!"

-And attempts to ram the presence head-on, which causes the Murkrow to sprawl out dazed-

<Sonny (Murkrow): "T-Tracer?! M-Meditsina!"> @v@

Train Station in Celadon - Several Years Ago

-A certain Cubone is peeking about nervously at her surroundings-

<Kat (Cubone): "T-Tracer, wh-why would you take me here? Th-Those fiends c-come here! O-One of them a-ate my-!">

"Kat... Calm down... It's just a station... (It's not like I can take you outside of your ball aboard anyways...) The trains won't hurt you, and aren't they fun to look at?"

<Kat (Cubone): "F-Fun?! Y-You're insane! Th-Those things are e-evil!">

-And the horn of an approaching train can be heard-

-Starting to whimper-

<Kat (Cubone): "Tracer! Pl-Please! It's c-coming!">

"I know! I know! We're right here! We're behind the yellow line! Like we're supposed to be!"

-And a train pulls up... And opens its doors beside the platform... Revealing the interior cabins... Which to a Cubone, would perhaps come off as somewhat mawlike-

-Quivering and starting to tear up-

<Kat (Cubone): "D-Don't l-let it-! D-Don't let it e-ea-ea-BWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!">

-And runs off for the stairs, crying-

"Kat! Wait! Where are you going?!"

PEFE - Back in the Same Time as the Beginning

<Iggy: "See? Those things were all tough and scary to them back then, but they've gotten over it!">

<Milo (Buizel): "But... How do they see them now?">

<Iggy: "... Uh...">

The Same House in Greater Celadon - A Few Years Later

-A certain bird, now a Honchkrow is flying towards a certain house with an ill-gotten bread loaf-

<Sonny: "Convenience stores, what would I ever do witho-" CAW!>

-And runs into a familiar nemesis-

<Sonny: "Ubiraysya s moyego puti, mudak!">

-And uses Night Slash-

*SMASH* *Twinkle*

The Same Train Station - A Few Years Later

"Kat... Please don't get me in trouble here..."

<Kat: "If those fiends come, I'm not letting one of them escape, Tr-!">

-And the horn of a passing train sounds-

<Kat: "Ack!">

-And a train rolls to a stop... And opens its doors-

-Assuming a battle position, in a proud, if somewhat unhinged tone-

<Kat: "You- You killed my father! I, Chain of Spades of the Umber Tribe have waited years for this day that I could avenge him!">

-Fumbling for Kat's Pokeball-

"Uh? K-Kat?!"

-And attempts to recall her... And misses-

<Kat: "DIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEE!">

-As a certain Marowak rushes the side of the stopped commuter train-

PEFE HQ - Back in the Time of the First Part

<Iggy: "Well...">

-The voice of a certain Lucario can be heard calling out from the distance-

<Audrey: "(Ack! What is THIS doing here?! Get out! Get out! Get OUT!)">

-And a still-running robotic vacuum cleaner can be seen ejected from a module in the distance... Effectively disintegrating upon contact with the ground-

<Iggy: "Er... Ideally, you'll come to deal with them in a way that isn't as destructive... (For my sake, anyways.)"> ._.;

[spoiler]Spaghetti post with Tracer. Takes place in the AU.

RtAU - Near a Notable Landmark in Unova…

The setting is a partly frozen forested area with a large structure in the background. A sacred place where two highly annoyed deities rest, with the wildlands around patrolled by various mons taking charge of the migration of mons and humons goin' around.

A slightly tired [Nidoran♂] walks out of behind some bushes and takes a look around the perimeter of Dragonspiral Tower. He smirks, he has finally found some guards. A Druddigon, two Mienfoo and a Vanilluxe.

Silentran♂: <Hey! You!> -- swings paws -- <Uhm... are you tower guards?>

Mienfoo #1 -turns around: <Eh?>

Mienfoo Guard #2: <Wait, who the heck are you?">

Mienfoo Guard #1: <And what are you doing lurking in the bushes?> >:|

The Nidoran walks up to them.

Silentran♂: <Uhm, I'm looking to get into the tower.> -- points at self -- <It's cold in there and I has no much fur...>

As he is explaining himself, a Nidorino with some deity paint job emerges from the bushes and just sits there, observing.

Vanilluxe: <Oh, boo hoo for you. Some of us don't HAVE any fur->

Mienfoo #2 -pats: <Easy there...> -- to the Nidoran -- <Why are you not in the town south of here with the other [evacuees]? It's got a lot of warm places you could stay in. And we can't take in travellers for very long here.">

Druddigon Guard -nods: <Yeah, it's policy.>

Maekrite the Nidorino -flickers ears, steps ahead: <What do you mean policy? Who mandated this?>

Silent meanwhile runs a circle around the guards and stands before one of them.

Silentran♂: <Look, we came from the towns out there. It's just this place is [important]!>

Mienfoo #2: <Standard practice. We take in pilgrims. Not immigrants.> -- scoffs.

Druddigon Guard: <That's like saying the sky is blue. Look. This is a place to come and visit, pay your respects to our lords, and then leave. Not some sort of free-for-all den!>

The larger Nido steps ahead in response.

Maekrite: <Well, I would really like to pay my respects to the lords of this land... and educate the kit a little bit.>

To strengthen his point Maekrite then pats the Nidoran on the head, who responds by trying to swat the paw away.

Mienfoo #1 -examines them for a moment. <... Mmph. Fine.>

Mienfoo #2: <Go on ahead, then. But remember that you will be treading sacred ground.>

Silent looks happy at the response and strolls away, while Maekrite buffs and walks ahead somewhat timidly. He looks around not too content at what he sees.

Maekrite: <...What's with all this snow anyway? It's cold, and it gets on my nerves...>

Suddenly a couple of metres ahead, the smaller Nidoran sneezes loudly, his fur standing on end.

Maekrite: <…Like that.> -- chuckles.

Seeing the predicament of the smaller morph, the guards talk for a moment, then one of the Mienfoo comes around with the Druddigon.

Mienfoo #2: <…Do you need us to WALK you in?>

Druddigon Guard: <Might as well. Weather's terrible, and I'd have to head in soon myself to not freeze.>

The Mienfoo sighs at this.

Mienfoo #2: <Allright then... you, follow us.>

Silent nods and follows the guards around. Maekrite takes a swift moment to glare at a snowbank then heads off after the three.

Maekrite -nonchalantly: <So, when do you get rid of all this snow?>

Mienfoo #2: <Whenever it melts.> -- shrugs -- <If needed, we try to burn off what's left by the end of the second moon of the year.>

Maekrite: <I see… hmph.> -- looks around -- <Hope this won't last for long.>

Druddigon Guard: <You better get used to it, actually…>

Silent hops ahead, frowns: <…The snow hides all the grass!>

Maekrite -snorts: <R-right. I haven't taught you yet how to get your flay out of all this yerao.>

Without much of a thought, Maekrite goes to the nearest patch of snow and swipes at it with a paw… but what comes from under is not grass but rather a round, decorated [pebble] that is kicked off-place and goes roll around in the direction of the Mienfoo guards.

Both Guards: <…Er....>

They blink and look down at the pebble, as if to check.

Mienfoo #2 -to Maekrite: <…WHAT do you think are you doing?>

Silent pursues the random pebble and proudly sits besides it, though looks back at the Mienfoo a bit confused.

Maekrite: <Uhm… getting grass for breakfast?> °.°

Mienfoo #2: <I thought we TOLD you that you were treading on [sacred] ground! You're disturbing ornaments!> >:(

Maekrite: <Wh-…> -- ears flatten -- <Wouldn't the ornament bee inside the tower! I-I mean… this place is...> -- looks around for excuse.

Silentran♂: <Are we in trouble? :3>

Druddigon Guard: <YES!>

Mienfoo #2 -gets in offensive stance: <Get OUT of our territory!> >:(

Silentran♂: <B-b-b-but the dragon gods...>

Maekrite -sighs, stands up to the two: <Look, I really need to get a word from them!>

Mienfoo #2: <Oh yeah? And we really, really DON'T need pilgrims that can't behave themselves!>

Maekrite: <But it is important that I->

Mienfoo #2: <You don't come around here and give orders!>

Maekrite takes stance as well, Leers at the first Mienfoo while holding his ground. Seeeing this, Silent moves to a safer position.

Silentran♂: <We can't really return to the towns though…>

Mienfoo #2 -crosses arms: <You came FROM it, you can go BACK. Now get lost!>

The Nidoran sighs theen walks up to Maekrite.

Silentran♂: <It'd help if you stop aggraviating them.>

Maekrite in response mutters something and turns his head down.

Maekrite: <I just didn't know… Couldn't see it with the snow.> -- looks aside -- <What, I expected those to be better than judging a mom for a single mistake.>

Listening to this the two guards get more stern.

Druddigon Guard: <Mphm... A single action can very much define a mon. Why should we not act upon it?>

Mienfoo #2: <If you want your meeting this badly, fine, the little one can come in, but not you.> -- looks at the Nidoran -- <At least he doesn't go around causing trouble…>

Druddigon Guard -waves a paw: <Yeah, just have him inform you afterwards.>

Maekrite growls blatantly in response.

Maekrite: <Hey! I'm the one marked by light here!>

He is about to kick a pebble in exasperation, but manages to refrain from it. Silent, on the other paw, looks pretty happy.

Silentran♂: <Eeeee~ I get to meet two Legendaries! :3>

Mienfoo #2 -scoffs: <"Marked by light"? That's the trend in excuses for hide markings now?>

Druddigon Guard: <Mon civilization has gone down a good notch…>

The two then approach the Nidorino and surround him.

Mienfoo #2: <Look. We're not letting YOU in. Plain and simple. We already told you why. Now accept it.>

Silentran♂ -walks up to one of the Mienfoo: <And could you carry me for a while? This snow is cold to the feet…>

The two guards look down at the Nido and then at each otheer, all whilee Maekrite growls more and walks in circles, giving the Mienfoo challenging looks every once in a while.

Druddigon Guard: <You taking him? You're the one without the sandpaper hide~>

Mienfoo #2 -neighs: <Can't. Third shift gathering at the other side of the moat. Just be kind to him.>

Druddigon Guard -sighs: <Fine. But only because he's little.> -- notices Maekrite's attitude. <And YOU, can the attitude!>

At this the Druddigon and Silent prepare for the trip, while Maekrite makes some not very veiled motions walking back and forth, clearly expressing in body language that he expects the Mienfoo to put his berries where his muzzle is.

Silentran♂: <So I really get to meet them? Last time I heard of them they were inside some stones for a while....>

Druddigon: <Um... Well... Probably not right away, but if you really want to, we can make sure that you get to see them before you leave... And they're very much moving in the flesh right now.">

Mienfoo #2 -sees Maekrite's geesturing, gets a bit annoyed: <Just ignore him... Just ignore him...> -- turns to his partner -- <You know what I should call a replacement...>

Silent meanwhile notices the sparks flying around and addresses Maekrite.

Silentran♂: <Can you behave while I'm gone?>

Maekrite -buffs: <Hey! Who's the adult here?>

Mienfoo #2: <Not YOU from the way you're acting. An adult would be LEAVING now instead of fighting what he's told like a petulant brat!>

Druddigon -frowns: <Dude. Just let it go. We'll tell a patrol to guide him out if he insists on being a jerk, and he'll be someone else's problem.>

Maekrite glares at the Druddigon and sighs his frustrations.

Maekrite: <I should be the one to go up there. With Them. You are just a kit.>

Silentran♂: <I'm waaaaay older than you.> -- sits proudly.

Maekrite -tilts head: <You are still unbred.>

Silentran♂ -stands on hind legs, bashful: <So says Mr. "disregard girlfriend, roam the earth".> -- blushes and turns away -- <Better do what they say.>

Druddigon -looks away shiftly: <Y-yeah, we'll get you that meeting.> -- turns to the Mienfoo -- <So that leaves you to lead him out.>

Mienfoo #2: <H-Hey! It's been five minutes and I'm hating him already!>

Druddigon Guard -raises arms: <Come on, it'll just be until you hand him over to somemon else. Can't be that much, right?>

The Mienfoo looks down at the Nidorino, who doesn't change his face.

Mienfoo: <...Fine.> -- defeated grumble.

With this the Druddigon backtracks to where Silent is and starts talking to him, giving him some indications. So does the Mienfoo with Maekrite, the Nidorino giving him a "oh great I'm stuck with you" look and decides to walk the way he is pointed to.

Silentran♂ -runs circles around the Druddigon: <So? Do we need a voucher or something? Do we have to line up? What should I bring as a [offering]? Do you have shiny Druddigon living in there? How many stairs are in there? :3>

Mienfoo #2 -glares at Maekrite: <Yeah, yeah, I don't like YOU either. Can it.>

Druddigon Guard -timidly: <Uhm... please, one question at a time...> ._.;

And thus the two Nidos are lead their opposite ways…

[spoiler]More spaghetti == More good

AU, Dragonspiral Tower outskirts

A barrage of flechette-like icicles fly through the air attempting to dig themselves on the Nidorino's hide; the Pokémon yelps and is hit by several of the icicles, has blood drawn as well not to mention one of them manages to cut near his eye. Before he manages to react he is hit by a Dragon Rage as well.

Maekrite -drops to the ground: <...Gah! Th-this is unfair!> -- tries to stay in defensive position.

Irate!Mienfoo: <You shoulda left peacefully when you had the CHANCE!>

The Mienfoo then makes some swift motions and unleashes a Force Palm on Maekrite's flank; the Nidorino is shoved a fair distance and growls in pain, but remains mostly motionless.

Vanillish -hovers around: <A persistent one isn't he?>

Suddenly a voice resounds behind Maekrite.

Poisoned!Druddigon♀: <Let's fix that by giving him a nice trip!>

And before the Nidorino can turn, one of his legs is grabbed; the Nidorino is then flung and tossed to the air in the direction of the Dragonite, who proceeds to unceremoniously Aqua Tail him and heft him into a tree not a long distance away, shaking snow from the branches into a small snowbank on the Nidorino.

Shitstirrer!Dragonite -thumps on the ground: <Now you, t-take the damn hint!>

Poisoned!Druddigon♀: <Urgh…> -- looks at the snowbank -- <Now that we are done, ca we head back? I feel kinda dizzy here...> @_@

NoLongerIrate!Mienfoo -approaches and brushes the wound: <Yup. That should probably get treated...>

And the group heads off, helping the weakened member of their number to approach the Tower, leaving behind a silent snowbank and a slightly shattered tree...

…Several minutes later…

The snowbank [shakes]!

A moment after, Maekrite emerges from under the snow carefully, a bit dazed and shaking because of the cold. He listens around…

Maekrite: <With some luck they'll be bored now...> -- shakes more -- <Or else.>

The Nidorino then straightens himself up and goes explore around, trying to pretend he is just another peasant wandering aimlessly. He does keep an eye on the paths that he finds that lead to the Tower though, and mentally counts some of the guards's numbers (up to four).

By the northern side of the moat, he manages to find a narrow passage with the surrounding area clear. After listening around for a while, Maekrite smirks.

Maekrite: <Enough of loafing around. How come Silent can get into the Tower but not me?> -- paws the ground and looks ahead -- <I should be able to just walk in there.>

He flares his ears; thinks about it for a moment then makes a run towards the entrance, horn up, very proud that–

????: <[size=larger]...Hey! LISTEN! >

…And Maekrite stops on his tracks, eyes wide!

Maekrite -blinks: <...Not her…> -- shakes himself -- <Doesn't sound like her...>

He looks around to see a large shadowed figure up the wall of the passage.

????: <Stop right there, you criminal scum! You're not supposed to be here! You got kicked out earlier!>

Maekrite - looks back: <Well I didn't like that! I'm supposed to go inside!>

???? -leers: <No... You're NOT...>

Maekrite turns around and looks up, clearly distinguishing the lavender fur of what can only be a Mienshao's waving arms, the Pokémon clung to the wall of the passage. At this Maekrite looks displeased, as he was sure there was nomon in there before.

Maekrite -frowns: <Well what are you waiting for? I'm not going to just turn around…>

EliteMook!Mienshao: <Grrrr, fine then, I'll turn you around!>

With a swift move, the Mienshao then swirls, an arm still clung to the side of the wall, and using a free leg and arm deals a strong hit on it, lobbing some rocks at the aggressively-stanced Nidorino - a Rock Slide! Maekrite tries to move away, but in the narrow passage there is not much he can do and he is swept and knocked down.

The Mienshao then takes his time to leap to the other side of the passage and slide down. He observes as the Nidorino barely manages to pull himself up, then assumes a ready battle stance.

EliteMook!Mienshao: <At least you can take a hit.> -- thinks for a moment back to his training -- <But you should learn a thing or two about what we [study] here in the service of our lords!>

The Pokémon then swiftly moves towards the Nidorino leaps up in the air and Acrobatics him, being careful of the point bits. Maekrite only haves the time to turn to a more defensive stance before being swept again, this time a good distance along the passage; however, he notices he has not taken much damage from this particular attack.

Maekrite -stands up: <Good thing you mention it.> -- grumbles -- <I studied in the service of my lord as well!>

The Nidorino then steps back towards a more open area of the passage, and as soon as the Mienshao tries to follow, raises his horn and fires a Thunderbolt at him while stepping aside and rushing towards a snowbank for cover.

Mienshao -is surprised: <WH-AUGH!!!>

He crumbles down to his feet, the well-aimed attack having sapped most of his health. He rubs his arms and legs for a moment, grumbling at the loss of sight of his opponent.

Then he stands up and climbs up the wall of the passage again to get a better look. He scans for the Nidorino but finds nothing; instead of getting down to the ground though he leaps to the other side, stands up and focuses his Aura.

Mienshao: <…What ARE you? Nidorino don't hit this hard...>

Maekrite -voice comes from a distance: <I'm THE!> -- roars that last word -- <top percentage of Nidorino.>

Mienshao: <Alas, we are guards of sacred Pokémon. We have [ways] of dealing with invaders like you.>

Both Pokémon then remain in their places, only moving slowly, trying to scan for each other's location with their senses. However the Mienshao is quick to switch to his field advantage - he uses his Aura to call upon reinforcements, as well as transmit a feeling of the movement of the Nidorino as a warning to the others coming to the area.

Maekrite starts listening to the pawsteps and sounds of more Pokémon coming, and decides he has to make a move for the Tower soon, or else. Making sure the snowbanks around still cover him, he readies a Sludge Bomb to fire it once he is forced to move out of hiding.

The Mienshao meanwhile smirks as he feels the energy of the other mons in the area approaching, this time about eight of them. In a somewhat fatigued tone, he sends them a warning.

EliteMook!Mienshao: <Sacred Guard, here! And be careful, this opponent has some sort of evil [sorcery] strengthening him!>

And that's all Maekrite needs to pinpoint the Mienshao's exact location; he shakes his ears to cnofirm, leaps up and before the Mienshao can turn or move to a safer spot, fires the Sludge Bomb at him.

Mienshao -hears something: <Huh?->

He is then struck by the flying orb of concentrated poison and is flung off the wall of the passage, falling to the snow nearly unconscious. This is observed by the other mons who are rushing in.

Maekrite: <No calling more reinforcements! I didn't like it before!>

But it is too late. Maekrite sees several Pokémon entering the ample space he is in, and the one leading them, a Sawsbuck in winter coat, rushes into the passage fast enough to see Maekrite and point to his location with his antlers.

Karus the Sawsbuck -in an angry tone: <That's him! Rip him apart!>

The other mons, which include a Dragonair, a Mienfoo and a Beartic, rush in all charging attacks.

Indistinctint mons: <The rabbit's there! Fire at will!>

Maekrite -assumes defensive position: <Oh hraka... not again...> ¬¬

…And the general area is blasted by electric bolts, ice flechettes and razor-like leaves.

Maekrite -assumes defensive position:

Dragonspiral Tower Catacombs. Not long after the previous post

The mons who comprise the guard inside the Tower are busy with their lives, making their rounds, meeting every once in a while at a corner to "'sup?" and comment on stuff like the weather, the food rations, or the tense mood their Lords have had the last days.

The group of guards at the lowest points of the Tower are charged with taking care of "The Pit". That's where mons are sometimes held prisoner for various reasons, such as DESECRATING ORNAMENTS. Thus, a certain [Nidorino] is walking in circles in the pit, ocassionally flaring his ears up to listen to the mons above. What he listens is the mons up there about to make their shift.

Guard!Druddigon -arrives through a tunnel: <S'up, Thickarms?>

Guard!Golett: <Greetings, dragon.>

Guard!Druddigon -looks at the pit: <I heard there was quite some racket outside yesterday. What happened?>

Guard!Golett: <The usual...> -- makes a sort of sigh -- <Our Lords getting a bit annoyed with the complaints about serving in this weather…>

Thhe Druddigon shifts on his legs uneasily - it is his species that takes part of those complains the more.

Guard!Golett -continues: <Then there is the usual whimpering apologies. No need for impromptu janitorial crew this time though, not that I would have heard.>

Guard!Druddigon: <Good thing if there wasn't... that makes patrolling outside hard on the apetite... >.< >

The Golett is about to comment on something related to their shift, when the two mons listen to something down the pit.

Guard!Golett: <...Huh. SOMEONE'S up...> -- calls the Druddigon to the border.

Maekrite: <So... morning... do you think I could be introduced to those nifty [Lords] you speak about so highly?> :3

Guard!Druddigon: <Oh it's you...> -- waves a paw dismissively -- <Nope. You can await for your trial.>

Guard!Golett: <Yeah, not exactly sure what possessed you to beat up 4 guards->

Guard!Druddigon: <…I thought it was 6?>

Guard!Golett: <more like 10, but let's not give him the pleasure…> -- scoffs -- <but you are in QUITE some major hot water here.>

Guard!Druddigon: <Mph...> -- glares down -- <Consider yourself thankful that our Lords are not keeping us on a shorter-than-normal leash, we've EATEN devils that have done less to disturb this shrine than you have!>

Down the pit, Maekrite shudders at the thought of being somemon's prey, something he didn't have to think too hard about ever since he had evolved. It takes him a moment to recompose himself, enough that he misses most of the conversation continuing far up.

The Druddigon then circles the pit. The Golett is quick to follow, looking a bit confused.

Guard!Golett: <Aren't Nidoran supposed to be full of poison? I'm pretty sure that thing would be the last thing you ever ate.>

Guard!Druddigon -nervously: <Shhhh! Didn't you just speak of not giving him the pleasure?>

Guard!Golett -a bit puzzled: <Uhm.... fine, I guess. So, what's the point of eating other mons anyway? I never got any of that.>

Guard!Druddigon -lowers head: <It's… ah, hard to explain.> -- thinks for a moment -- <Look, there is such a thing as not letting anything to rot, and...> -- the conversation continues.

After a moment, Maekrite sits in his position and watches the two mons circle above. He decides to call them.

Maekrite: <Look, you were the ones getting on my way. I was plenty respectful until you decided to keep me out while letting my charge in.> -- tilts head -- <Speaking of which, can I at least know if the Nidoran is doing any fine?>

Guard!Druddigon -peeks over, angrily: <You VANDALIZED A RELIC!>

Guard!Golett: <He's fine... If rambunctious. I'm surprised that your kid has more tact than you do, actually. I thought organics taught their offspring like that?>

Maekrite: <…I kicked a pebble,> -- looks abaten, with ears fallen -- <I do it all the time... Heck, the kit taught me...>

Guard!Druddigon -practically roaring: <IT WAS A SACRED PEBBLE, OKAY?!>

And the three Pokémon have to stop the conversation for a moment as the entire cave shakes a little, just for long enough that the Druddigon decides to sta nervously still. It takes some six seconds for the vibration to subside.

Guard!Golett: <Funny, HE didn't kick any pebbles while he was here.>

Maekrite glares at the Golett, then decides to turn away from the Druddigon.

Maekrite: <This is so wrong. I am the one who comes as herald from the [gods]! Silent should be somewhere else... safe...>

He reacts to his own line of thought by kicking an imaginary pebble (obviously!), though fortunately for him the gesture looks from above as if he was merely pawing at the ground.

The Druddigon calls for the Golett to ignore their guest and then the two of them go to a wall to talk about the neext shifts. Maekrite dedicates the next two hours to walking in circles inside his little prison, taking every once in a while a short moment to try and dig at the walls, searching for an exit (as if he wasn't in enough trouble already).

Not long after that though, a much younger Druddigon guard comes notify the two others that there is a group of mons coming to see the prisoner. In effect, certain voices can already be heard approaching the opening of the pit, and Maekrite decides to go to the center of the pit and sit idly just in case.

????: <My Arceus, how on earth did Maekrite manage this?>

????: <I-I'm sure this is a big misunderstanding! I-I mean, I'm sure Maekrite didn't TRY to cause trouble…>

???? -in a snarky tone: <With guards this snappy, I'd be more worried about THEM causing the trouble!> >_>

Maekrite listens to and turns his head up, thinking that he recognizes some of the voices.

Maekrite: <What do you mean how did I manage this? I was trying to get in here.> -- looks aside shiftly -- <Though not in this terms.>

The form of a Buizel and a Marowak then peek into the opening of the pit, and the two receive from the Nidorino a greeting in the form of a fairly embarrassed "oh hai ô/" gesture.

Milo: <This is gonna be a long story, isn't it?>

Kat: <How on earth did you put up with the weather long enough to get out here? It's HORRIBLE!>

Teala -peeks in: <Um… How did this happen? Maekrite? And... You look kinda... Terrible.> ._.

Maekrite: <Uhm... hi there. It's not much of a story really...>

Milo: <Good, because we don't wan-oooof!> -- is promptly elbowed by Kat.

Maekrite seems to blush and become more embarrassed at Teala's comment, circles around nervously.

Maekrite: <Something happened. Everyone is now mons, I guess you might have [noticed]. Silent and I kinda… got cut in our path and I thought of coming here.>

At this his temper seems to flare out a little, he turns his head to growl up at the wall where the guards are.

<But for some reason I'm not well-received in here.>

Guard!Golett: <YOU DAMAGED A RELIC AND VIOLENTLY RESISTED EXPULSION!> -- stomps on the ground.

Kat meanwhile ponders for a moment, then turns to the guards.

Kat: <A relic? Uh... Is it something that's easily replaced?>

Guard!Druddigon -in a "teacher exposition" posture: <It was a decorative [pebble].>

…

…

…

Kat + Milo: <WHAT.>

Teala -tilts head: <Oh... Oh dear... Uh... To be fair, they're fairly easy to mistake in the cold seasons...> ._.

Maekrite -points to Teala: <See? Somemon here makes sense. What was I supposed to know? It's snowy out there.>

He then looks up a bit annoyed.

<And I wasn't resisting expulsion violently. Not much…>

Guard!Druddigon: <You MAULED FIVE GUARDS!>

Guard!Golett: <I thought it was fift-....!!!!!> -- and is promptly glared back into compliance by the dragon.

Kat: <Mauled? Erm... What's going to happen to him?>

Teala: <Uh... Well... Given what happened... I think you're gonna have a trial, Maekrite...> ._.

Milo: <Hey, if it is like those Cubone trials, it can't be that bad...>

Maekrite -addresses Teala sheepishly: <I didn't maul them... they were just so… well…> -- mumbles for a moment -- <...weak! I didn't even charge my Thunderbolts!>

…

…

A facebone can be heard from Kat, a strong enough one. Milo also reacts accordingly, and turns around with a gesture that could easily be read as "I don't know who that guy is, he is not with me". The two guards, meanwhile, are growling menacingly, not very flattered with the comment.

Milo: <Yeah, yeah... this is sooooo not going to help your case...>

Teala steps in and attempts to assuage the guards.

Teala: <Uhm... I'm pretty sure that he's just in a bit of a sour mood... You won't hold this against him, will you?> ._.;

Maerite mentally facepaws, then sighs loudly.

Maekrite: <So... I'm getting a... a... trial?>

Guard!Druddigon: <Mmph. We'll let him explain himself before our lords...>

Guard!Golett -with a hint of interest: <Indeed you are, rabbit... And it would appear that it's actually set to happen right about now...>

Kat: <Why do you say-?>

And at that precise moment, a number of gruff-looking guards march into the catacombs and surround the pit. Two of them shove Kat and Milo to the nearest wall, with Teala only getting a just a bit better treatment.

Escort!Druddigon -to the Golett: <Heard there was someone who's supposed to stand trial for vandalism and assaulting on-duty guards?>

Guard!Golett: <Not too hard to find. Only prisoner this week.> -- points to the pit.

Maekrite -blinks: <Wait, I do get to see the lords after all?> -- he then remembers something and addresses Kat- <Uhm, Silent is also here. He needs to be with me.>

Kat: <We'll do our best to get him along... Just... PLEASE think before you say anything out there, Maekrite.>

The first Druddigon then goes grab a long slab, long enough to bound up the side of the pit with. He lets it slide down and addresses the Nidorino.

Guard!Druddigon: <It's time, Nido.>

Maekrite nods at the guard, hiding the sensation of eagerness, then gets out of the pit with some difficulty. He is shoved a couple of times for him to get in line, then after a short dialogue between the dragons he is allowed to go talk to Kat for a moment.

Maekrite -to Kat- <I guess I'll try to be quiet then. Except for the important things.>

Maekrite then decides to follow the guard around; thoug before they depart he gives a glance back to Teala and lowers his head.

Teala: Huh?>

Maekrite mutters a 'I'm sorry' in a very very low voice and returns his attention to the escort leading him up the corridors.

Teala stands in her place as she watches the group disappear. It takes her a moment to notice Kat is proding her.

Kat: <...to Teala, are you even listening? Kat to Teala.>

Teala turns to her and mutters an apology. Kat explains that it is time to leave and watches, with a hint of curiosity, as the Druddigon walks ahead. Then she goes drag an annoyed Milo with her.

(More spagpost with Tracer. Slowly approaching the cute part~)

AU!DST; Immediately after the previous post

Having just been hit with community service, Maekrite is led outside of the chamber by one of the Golurk guards who hands him over (ie.: shoves on) to Kat and her group.

Milo -gets the wrong end of the spikes: <...Ouch! What was that for? He's not our friend!>

Golurk Guard: <He's with you, you handle him.> -- and turns away.

Milo: <So… He's out of that community service stuff or some-?>

The Golurk stops and glares at Milo.

Golurk: <Of course not, he's just beginning it.> -- points at the group -- <And you're going to make sure he stays healthy enough to complete his punishment.>

Maekrite -offhandedly: <…I *can* hunt my own food...>

Just a couple of steps from there, Silentran♂ observes the scene on top of the very exasperated Druddigon.

Kat: <…I see.>

Milo -frowns: <So he just said we have to babysit him too?!> >_>

Kat: <And out OTHER friend? We DID come up here as a group of THREE...>

Maekrite blinks and looks back at the guard. Milo puts up a very discontent face.

Guard Golurk: <Actually, let me ask about that one. A Druddigon should hold a better place here…>

The Golurk calls a Whatever mon for advice; in the meanwhile Silent has managed to somehow steer the Druddigon serving as his mount into approaching Kat and the rest of the group. Milo, seeing that the Druddigon is in a murderous mood already, decides to not press the issue.

Kat -sighs: <Is Tracer also going to be this much of a handful when we run into him again?>

Silentran♂ -raises ears: <Oh, Tracer? Have you known of him?> -- waves down.

Maekrite -lowers head: <…He's not THAT bad. Just annoying in the mornings.> -- scratches his ears -- <And asks all sorts of… uhm, uncomfortable questions.>

Milo: <We only know what you know. His phone went dead right before everything happened...>

Maekrite -tilts head: <Doesn't Tracer's phone _always_ go dead?>

Kat: <The timing was kinda... Unsettling. But anyhow... Let's get you rested up, Maekrite... You've got a bit of an ordeal ahead of you tomorrow...>

Maekrite takes a moment to think and nods.

Silentran♂ -happily: <My phone died too when everything happened~> ^.^

The Golurk from before comes back, with a high-ranking mon who arrives to send Kat, Maekrite and the rest of the group off. As soon as the Druddigon in question explains that they're taking Silentran♂ to their place as well, a sound breathe of relief can be heard coming from the "vehicle" Druddigon from before.

Vehicle!Druddigon: <…YES!!!! THANKFULLY!>

Before anymon can do anything, the Druddigon manages to shake Silentran♂ off his crest; then he picks him up with his claws, in a not very gentle gesture, and punts him off to Kat's group.

Milo: <...Ouch!> -- gets the barbs, rubs his arm.

Vehicle!Druddigon -points at Milo: <There. He's YOUR problem now!>

…And he turns tail and runs away from the cave as fast as his legs and the cold will alow him to.

Maekrite: <....Grrrr...>

Milo: <...> ¬¬

Manager!Druddigon: <....?> -- rubs crest.

Kat: <....> -- breathes soundly.

Silentran♂: <...> o.o

Guard Druddigon: <...Huh.> -- still tries to process what just happened. -- <So, uhm... we're ready then.>

Maekrite is promptly led outside by the Golurk guard, Kat and the others, with Silentran♂ following shortly, and they take a corridor that goes down the tower's structure. Shortly after they reach a fork on the road.

Milo: <... Left or right?>

Silentran♂ -practices his hearing: <…I say right. At least I can hear peoplemons talking that way.>

Guard Golurk: <Yeah, the storage area is the other way. Now, don't get into trouble. And you...> -- points to Maekrite -- <report tomorrow sunrise at the nursery area.>

Maekrite shrugs, not having much of an opinion on the matter so long as he stays inside the Tower. The Golurk walks away to the left.

Kat: <… I suppose it's worth a shot.>

This way they go away, to their accomodations.

Next Morning

The group of four is marching across the corridors and they have just taken the same turn to the right for the third time after Silentran♂ has managed to get them lost. This time however they show confidence to be on the right track.

However as the group progresses on, they can hear some words carry down the hallway.

Teala: <B-But I->

???: <Hrmph. Coming crawling back to this place is already a dampener on your right to pick assignments! And how on earth are you going to be helpful outside in this weather?>

Teala: <I s-said I would help Maekrite, though!>

???: <So be useful and help him from your PROPER post!>

Maekrite and the others listen to the conversation; the Nidorino's mood changes notoriously.

Silentran♂ -to Kat: <…W-what is going on?>

Not minding much more, Maekrite walks towards the source of the noise, Honing his claws in the meantime. Milo crosses his arms as Maekrite walks ahead.

Kat: <Grr... Someone being unreasonable with their authority, it sounds...>

The sound of a stammering, and disappointed voice grows louder as the group approaches rounds a corner…

Teala: <But... I... And- Aww...>

Maekrite: <[!]>

Maekrite rushes to the corner and issues a warning growl. Silentran♂, meanwhile, sighs and starts scratching his ears to fight the cold.

???: <Eh?! Who's there?>

Milo -groans: <Oh delightful... More trouble. Just what we needed.>

And the form of a leering Druddigon followed by another one looking a bit downcast can be seen.

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon: <Yeah? What do you want?>

Silentran♂: <He always does this. This is why we wouldn't get to Angela.> -- starts wiping his claws in annoyance.

Maekrite stands firm in his place and leers back at the other Druddigon.

Maekrite -snorts: <What do you want? Chewing her out, what, you don't have anything better to do?>

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon: <Hrmph. I'M keeping her useful. Worry about your public service, devil!>

Maekrite seems to falter a bit at the reminding of his punishment, but scoffs after a moment.

Milo -to Kat: <I told you we should've left when we had the chance...>

Maekrite: <Doesn't sound like you're doing any a good job of it. All I hear is grunts and nagging.>

Silentran♂ facepaws, as does Milo, mentally. Kat meanwhile approaches the scene.

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon -shooting a harsh leer:* <Come... Again?>

Maekrite: <Well, she's a fairly good Pokémon. And you don't sound like you treat your comrades with much respect.>

Kat walks in, looking exasperated at the day starting the wrong way already.

Kat: <Maekrite! Calm DOWN!>

Milo: <Yeah! You're already in ENOUGH trouble as it is today!>

Maekrite flares his ears in the direction of the two and lowers his head; gives them a half-leer.

Silentran♂ -blinks: <Uh, I'd rather not be added to the community service, thanks.> >_>

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon -looks down at the group: <Mmph. Thought so. But let's make this CLEAR for your thick head.>

…And turns to Teala.

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon: <You, restrain this devil!>

-Stammering-

Teala: <I- I->

-Lowering head-

Teala: <… I can't do that...>

Maekrite: <W-what?> ._. -- looks a bit puzzled, turns to the Druddigon- <Uhm, in case you haven't noticed! Here I'm busy tring to... defend her…>

Teala: <…He's my friend... My ally... It would be like- H-Huh?!>

-Growling and leering Teala down-

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon: <Mmrph. Clumsy AND lazy! Fine, someone ELSE can handle this!>

…And gives a signaling roar, making Silentran♂ flinch.

Maekrite -growls: <You damn…> -- turns to Teala -- <Y-you have to do this, right?>

A Golurk accompanied by an assortment of Dratini and other mons arrive quickly through the opossite corridor Kat and Silentran♂ came in.

Guard Golurk: <Sector 7G Guard present!>

Milo, Kat and Silentran♂ are swiftly surrounded.

Milo: <Gih! What the-?!>

Silentran♂ -to Milo: <Just great. He got in trouble BECAUSE beating a group of mons outside!>

After inspecting Kat and the others for a moment, the Dratini shift around and move to surround the Nidorino.

Seeing all this, and torn between the sting of the guard's words and sticking up for her friends... Teala tries to at least look him up.

Teala: <I-I- I'm not lazy! I can be useful!>

She then (somewhat) decidedly rakes Maekrite with a claw, causing him to yelp. Before being hit by a realization-

Teala: <AAH! I- Sorry! I didn't- I didn't mean to-!>

And continues stammering…

Maekrite yelps at the sudden attack and steps back, surprised.

Guard Golurk -looks at Teala then at the other Druddigon: <…Is this the misbehaving one?> -- points to Maekrite.

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon: <Yeah.> -- grumbles, more at Teala than at Maekrite.

Seeing this Kat swings her bone and steps in.

Kat: <Now HOLD on, you clubbed a mon that was down!>

Milo -arms still crossed: <Yeah, THAT totally needed 4 other mons to do… And keep your stories straight!>

The Guard Golurk listens to Milo and looks puzzled for a moment, then turns to Teala.

Golurk: <Uhm, they're right, this is just a Nidorino. Do your job and restrain him.>

Maekrite, meanwhile, is looking up at Teala somewhat confused...

Golurk -to the Druddigon leader: <Uhm, what is going on? We're not usually called in for retraining, or to deal with the guests…>

-Starting to look a bit flustered-

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon -*spluttering*: <I- Look, the devil just needed a lesson beat into his head, okay?!>

Kat: <Mmph. So do your OWN work...>

Random Dratini #1 -in a low tone: <…Uhm... they're calling out the boss to deal with this?>

Random Dratini #2: <What do you mean "our" work? Wasn't this Pokémon designated your charge?>

Meanwhile, the Golurk just stares at Teala as if expecting something; namely, for her to mon up and attack the Nidorino.

Teala: <I- Uh- He... He was?> ._.

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon -shakes head: <Wait a minute, what? I thought he was the problem of that Meinshao!>

Maekrite -to Teala: <…Uhm, I was, kinda... >

Silentran♂ -raises a paw: <Well, he's supposed to be staying *somewhere* while he works outside...>

Meanwhile, the Dratini in the surrounding group start whispering more or less indistinctely...

<…is she here for anyway?>

<Wasn't that the Nidorino who..>

<I'll fully evolve before she manages to apprehend a Rattata.>

<And I'm missing a training session on Twister for this?>

Hearing this, Teala is visibly upset, near tears…

Teala: <I... I'll take him to his quarters…>

-sniffs-

<I can be useful that way, can't I?>

Guard Golurk -does a sort of shrug: <So long as you do what you are told to…>

-then he turns to the group of Dratini-

<And shut up all of you! Show some discipline!>

Maekrite meanwhile rights himself up and stands showing off his flank to Teala.

Teala: <Huh?">

Maekrite -timidly: <…I'm sorry.>

Teala -glumly: <... It's okay… This was my fault... It always is...>

The Dratinis circle Maekrite silently while the lead Golurk talks to Teala.

Golurk: <Look at you… Do we need to teach you how to deal with intruders, again?>

Maekrite feels a bit irated at seeing Teala saddened away; while he is being walked away he turns his head and speaks in voice high enough to make sure that the Druddigon guard behind will listen:

Maekrite -to Teala: <You are a good Pokémon. For all that he complained about you at least you landed me a hit. Those guards stationed outside were pathetic.> -- growls.

Silentran♂, who is walking shortly behind, rolls his eyes.

Teala: <H-Huh?!>

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon -snaps his tail against the ground: <Hey! You! Shut your snout, devil-!>

Milo -raises arms: <Relax! We don't want to see your mug either! Come on, let's hurry up and get out of->

-And he turns around only to see Kat leaping at Maekrite...

Kat: <Maekrite, you NUMBSKULL!>

And gives a hard swat with her club to Maekrite's head.

Maekrite: <-Wha-> -- is smacked on the head and falls to the ground -- <@.@>

Silentran♂ -sits, ears flattened: <....eeep!>

Fairly Unreasonable Guard!Druddigon: <Mmph. I see SOMEONE'S being useful...> -- glares at Teala.

Guard Golurk -crosses arms, assumes a somewhat sardonic tone: <Well yes, I make an effort. Even if we're called in for such trivialities.>

Silentran♂ -starts poking Maekrite back on his feet: <…What's wrong with you anyway? You're always getting us into trouble lately.>

Milo -scowling, at Kat: <...What did you do that for? Now we'll have to carry him around.> >_<

Silentran♂ -pats Milo: <I'll wake him...> -- starts kicking Maekrite's face.

It takes a moment but Maekrite finally wakes back up, looks around at the group fairly flustered. Teala looks fairly flustered as well.

Silentran♂ -throws paws up: <You stop picking fights! It's like you're going into breeding season again!> -- stops to think for a moment -- <Am *I* going into breeding season?>

Doing the equivalent of a brow raise, a bit wierded out by the Nidos' statements (and maybe, only maybe enjoying a microsecond of a fantasy in her head)…

Teala: <Eh...? Uh... Let's... Let's just get you to your quarters...>

Silentran♂ sighs, then hops around and climbs up to Teala's arm.

Maekrite -shakes head: <Y-yes... No... August... ouch...>

And walks with the rest of the group as they are led away by the guards.

(lastlog=20130622)

[spoiler]Special thanks to Silent for making this with me. Note that this post is subject to potential later revision.

In the Forests Around Dragonspiral Tower - AU - Likely a Good Time Into the Past

-A certain Meinshao is progressing into the forest, non-plussed about his present arrangements-

<Teala: "Uhm... What... What is it that you do out here at this time of year?"> ._.;

-Oh, and accompanied by a Druddigon and a Nidorino that the mustelid and its companions would probably wish weren't there-

-The Mienshao gives a glare back to the duo.-

<Leader!Mienshao: "This time of the year we are getting ready for the spring, of course. Like, sorting out the mess certain mons make!">

<Maekrite: *looks up to Teala* "I don't think he likes us.">

-Opening her mouth. And then stopping. Shying away from answering the Nidorino on account of still feeling awkward over coming to blows with the Nidorino the day before-

<Teala: "Um... We can help! Wh- What is it that needs to happen?"> ._.;

-The Mienshao stops and points to a section of the forest ahead.-

<Mienshao: "For starters, we need the snow off the trees. Otherwise they won't get much sunlight.

*Staring at Teala*

That is, if a little ice is not bad for your claws.>

-Answering a bit overhastily to the Meinshao-

<Teala: "Nnh! I can h-handle that!">

-The Mienshao nods, though not without expressing some hesitation-

<Mienshao: "Well, just in case, take that pincushion with you, he likes snowbanks so much, then he can help collecting the snow to move them.">

<Maekrite: "Uh, in case you haven't noticed, I lack-">

-The Mienshao waves a paw, looking obviously annoyed, and departs.-

-Quietly, lowering head-

<Teala: "Okay...">

-And goes over to a nearby tree to shake it-

-Maekrite walks behind Teala and then looks up as she starts shaking the tree-

<Maekrite: "…I don't think you shou-">

-And the two are promptly buried in a pile of snow.-

-The Druddigon digs herself out of the snow, moving a bit sluggishly from the cold-

<Teala: *cough cough* "M-Maekrite! I'm so sorry! I just-">

-And droops a bit-

<Teala: "I was just trying to be helpful..."> :(

-Maekrite digs himself out of the snow as well, looking a bit weird with all the snow piled on top of him. He shakes it off slowly, then mutters a "I'm fine" and looks around.-

<Maekrite: "Uhm...

*notices Teala's mood*

perhaps we should do this another way. Surely you don't want to get buried in snow with ''every'' tree you shake.">

-A bit surprised at the Nidorino's amicable tone, or at least far more amicable than she expected-

<Teala: "H-Huh? You're not...

Angry?"> ._.;

<Maekrite: *blinks* "N-no... And if I were, I guess the snow would cool it down, if you pardon the pun.">

-Glaring at the pile of snow.-

<Maekrite: *shakes a paw* "Anyway... I think it might be easier to tackle the trees instead of shaking them.">

<Teala: "Huh? Oh... Uh... Okay...">

-And takes the Nidorino's advice in mind, picks out the nearest tree-

<Teala: "Hup!">

-And rams it-

-Maekrite observes as the tree shakes and pretty much all of the snow falls on to the opposite side, if not as neatly as when she was shaking one.-

<Maekrite: *moves around and looks at Teala* "That works better... you've only got some snow on your crest, see...">

-And motions for her to mimic his shaking his own head-

-In a bit of a cheerful mood-

<Teala: "Er... Uh... I guess it does..."> ^_^

-And shakes the bit of snow off of her, before shyly putting forth a question-

<Teala: "Um.. Maekrite...? One of the reasons why I was worried about you being mad at me earlier, was... Well... [-Are you okay from yesterday?-]">

-Maekrite finishes shaking his head and sits looking a bit confused.-

<Maekrite: "U-uhm... well... I... I am fine, it's just...">

-He drags a paw on the snow for a moment-

<Maekrite: "I... Felt hurt...">

-Looking away-

<Teala: "... That's what I was afraid of... I...

I've always had trouble making others happy in this place... It was just a stupid thing that I did without thinking...">

<Maekrite: *uneasily* "I didn't mean to… I was angry at... well... all that...">

-He finds himself unable to continue, flattens his ears, and then circles for a moment in place, then stares at the trees around-

<Maekrite: "…I-I guess it is better if we focus on the work...">

-And begins to turn back to ramming trees-

<Teala: "Yeah... Um... If it's any consolation... Er...

You seem to know a thing or two about keeping a home tidy...">

-Maekrite rams a tree and steps back as the snow falls, he listens to Teala's comment and stays still for a moment, not looking at her.-

<Maekrite: "I wouldn't... know. I think.

*shakes head *

No foot on the colony for… long.">

<Teala: "Huh? What did you mean by that?">

-Maekrite turns at her, looking a bit irked, but relaxes himself afterwards.-

<Maekrite: "S-sorry… it's just that all of this,

*swings horn at everything*

it gets on my nerves. I should be at home... We were to be at home...">

<Teala: "Oh... Um...

What is your home like, Maekrite?">

-Maekrite sits on the snow and looks up at the trees, sighs after a moment.-

<Maekrite: "Not really unlike this. We are born and raised in a family, mostly. Then we make our way through the earth to the outside, and once there, each one of us has a place.">

-Maekrite idles for a moment and mentions some random things about the mothers always keeping their kittens under watch, or how at a certain age the males are taken to be taught to fight in large groups.-

<Teala: "... That sounds nice actually... We don't really have families here...

Maybe... If I had one... And... I mean, if it was okay with the mons there...

Maybe I'd move to a place like that...">

<Maekrite: *ears drooping* "I… think you had mentioned it before. That you... Your type, have no families.

I couldn't imagine what is that like... my mom and dad always tried to be around when I was little.>

<Teala: "Um... I don't know... I mean, most of the guards seem to be happy but...

And what is it like to have them always near you, anyways?">

-At the question Maekrite blushes.-

<Maekrite: "I was always giving them trouble, now that you mention it. It is harder for royal couples to raise kittens than for adult Nidoran... I guess it is the size.">

-After that Maekrite goes on a very brief recap of the time he got lost in a creek, the time he almost got eaten by a Scyther and the time he almost got eaten by a flock of bird Pokémon with his troop.-

<Teala: "Er... Eep... I'm not sure if I'd be able to think of anything like that we've gone through beyond the seige... And... That wasn't exactly normal...">

<Maekrite: "....Yeah, I can figure..." *stays in place, looking around idly, and still blushing*>

<Teala: "Huh? Is something wrong?">

<Maekrite: "…? Er...n-no!"

*shakes head*

Um... Let's go back to work? It's getting colder in here...">

-And walks to a nearby tree to circle it before ramming it-

<Teala: "Unh! Right!">

-And returns to her routine of helping to ram trees, though not able to help but feel a bit of pity for the Nidorino... And curious of what his world must be like such that it would sound so much like her own... And yet be so longed for-

-A couple of minutes later a certain Mienshao returns to find a sizeable portion of the treetops cleared of snow; he walks around for a moment and goes address the two Pokémon-

<Mienshao: "Hmph... At least you did your work. Now, it is time to move all this snow.">

<Teala: "Er... Where should it all go?">

-The Mienshao blinks, looks as if taken by surprise.-

<Mienshao: "W-well... Where do we toss it every year? That's...

*Scoffs*

That's something that a guard like you should know!"> *Points to Teala.*

<Maekrite: *raising an ear* "I'm not the only mon new here, I guess.">

<Teala: "U-Um... Normally I'd be resting in the tow- Er... Uh... I guess... I could find a place for it?"> ._.;

<Mienshao: *waving an arm* "No no no no.

*sighs*

You are a Druddigon, go do... Druddigon work, inside the tower. Prisoners and convicts like the rabbit can do the dirty work."> -- points at Maekrite.

<Maekrite: *growling* "What, afraid that I could have some spare time to fight? Rrrrrr...."> >_>

<Mienshao: "Mmrph. If you have the time to think about fighting, you have time to figure something out. Just keep that snow from cluttering the path!"> >:(

-And darts off, grumbling about the insolence of the Nidorino and how its strange markings seem to be going to its head-

<Maekrite: "Rrr... That was helpful. It's like everyone's deliberately trying to heap more work onto me here!"> >.<

-Looking a bit flustered from the encounter with the Mienshao-

<Teala: "Um... Well... I mean, there's only a few trees left... And most of the snow isn't on the path anyways.">

-Gesturing at a mostly passable path-

<Teala: "... Maybe we could just shove the rest of it off? I mean, the melt would take care of it first... Right?"> ._.

-Pondering for a moment-

<Maekrite: "Well, the elil just said to come up with something.">

-And rams a tree, shaking the snow off its branches-

<Maekrite: *snorting, flaring ears* "And that something will probably at least get me something specific to do next time.">

-Ramming loose the snow from the last tree along the path-

<Teala: "Oh. Er... I mean, if there's something that I can do to help with that- Maybe... I could-">

-And starts to trail off, losing color from a mixture of the cold and not quite knowing what to say next, which catches the attention of the Nidorino-

<Maekrite: "E-Eh? What is with that look?">

<Teala: "N-Nothing! I'm just a bit-">

<Maekrite: "... I think you should follow the little loudmouth's suggestion and go in, you aren't looking so good... And it won't be so tough to kick up this snow, anyways.">

-Expression visibly sinking-

<Teala: "But- I- Aww...">

<Maekrite: "After all, there's not much that I can do to keep you warm out here beyond pressing up against you and telling you stories of the burrows at home."> -_-;

-Flushing a deep crimson, which is a bit more visible than normal thanks to the draining of color elsewhere on her body-

<Teala: "Oh... Er... Well. I mean if you're not uncomfortable with it, I guess it's wor-"> O///O

<Maekrite: "No, really, head back. I'll tell you about it when you're not visibly freezing.">

<Teala: "Erm... I mean... If you're sure... But... You will tell me...

Right?">

<Maekrite: "Yeah, yeah. Hurry up before you slump over here!">

-And the Druddigon heads off, looking back and shivering a bit... But seemingly kept somewhat warm by something that can't quite be placed by the Nidorino-

<Maekrite: *shaking head* "... That's odd... I'd have thought she'd be eager to head back...

Wonder if it was something I said...?">

[spoiler]Written in conjunction with Silent.

Dragonspiral Tower - A Couple Days After The Episode Clearing Snow Off of the Trees

-Three Mienfoo are leading small groups of mons, a certain Nidorino and Druddigon among them, along the edge of the moat-

Teala: <"Huh? What are we doing here?">

Mienfoo #1: -sighs- <Good thing you ask. As a service to your community you all are going to help in clearing the moat.>

-And points to the moat itself, where some mons, among them a couple of very obviously annoyed Dratini, are trying to help in cleaning it up-

Mienfoo #2: -instructs the group to halt- <You'll be organized in groups each in charge of a part of the moat.>

Teala: <"Um... Okay... What part do you want us to handle?"> ._.

Mienfoo #2: -crosses arms- <Well, you're going to handle ALL of it.> -- scans the group -- <I mean, we have enough variety of mons today!>

Random Oshawott: -glares- <Well, this is just wonderful...>

Random Pidove: <Uhm... could I go to peck wood? ._.>

Not-So Random Nidorino: <I'm... Not even sure if I can swim in there>

Teala: <"Um... How does this happen again?"> ._.;

-One of the Mienfoo climbs up Teala, seeing as she is among the largest mons around, and shows the others the moat from there-

Mienfoo: <Well, see what those mons are doing? They seek for trash and stuff that is sunk or buried and then,> -- points to a couple of Garbodor and Poochyena in the shore -- <once you drag them to the shore those mons will move it outside to collect and dispose.>

-One of the Dratini from the moat meanwhile notices what is going on and starts whispering with the others-

Teala: <"Um... I guess... That's... Doable?"> ._.;

Mienfoo #1: - points to three random mons from the group not called Teala and Maekrite- <You three, go. The rest, with me.>

-And the three mons sigh and start making their way to the moat, while the Dratini start swimming to the shore-

Moat Dratini #1: -looks at the group with interest- <...Recruits! :3>

Moat Dratini #2: -snickers- <Finally somemon to do the dirty job instead of us.>

Teala: <"... Dirty... Work? Just what do you clean up?"> ._.;

Dratini #1: -blinks- <Mostly leaves and stuff. Some plastic, some random coins and sometimes... things that we'd rather not mention onscreen~> -- slithers away.

Maekrite: -flattening ears- <Well that's hopeful.>

Teala: <"Erm... I guess we could start near the shore? And I'm starting to feel glad that I don't need to eat daily meals..."> ._.

Mienfoo #2: -poking Teala carefully- <Don't fall back, keep walking!> -- and leads the rest of the mons further ahead.

Mienfoo #3: -noticing a part of the moat with greater actiivity ahead- <Okay, what do we have here...?>

-Several mons can be seen circling the waters, assisting themselves with help from some bug mons to mark specific places across the moat. The mood of the mons there seems to be very serious, and as the group approaches they can see two Garbodor at the shore besides a pile of what can be identified as some rubbish and pieces of varied weaponry-

-The Druddigon with the not-so-random Nidorino takes in the sight of the dredged debris... Unwanted reminders of dangerous days-

Teala: -grumble- <"I thought that those... Things were all gone...">

-A Golurk approaches from the other side and stands besides the Mienfoo-

Golurk: <We wish. It has been… fairly slow to get rid of those things.>

Random Minccino: <...Wha-what do they have in there?>

Mienfoo #2: <Those are... the remnants of the various battles that have been held around here.> -- turns to the group -- <Any volunteers?>

-No mons step ahead, there's only some murmurs from the group, so the Mienfoo decide to teach the others a lesson-

Mienfoo #3: <Hmmm... no mon then. Well, all the same, I had already thought of somemon.>

-The Mienfoo points to a guard, who brings ahead a Flygon and a Pignite who were at the back of the group; unlike most grunt mons however these two are chained and look somewhat more battered than Maekrite-

Prisoner!Flygon: <Ungh... I-I've tried to be nice...>

Mienfoo #3: -snorts- <Well this is the golden chance to prove it. Don't you fancy yourself sooooo superior? Then this task should be nothing for you!>

-The second Mienfoo addresses the others-

Mienfoo #2: <Let you not forget, we do take prisoners. These two, jerks allied with the jerk dragons who tried to attack us.>

Maekrite: <...I'm almost feeling bad for the Pignite. Almost.>

Teala: <"Um... What... Happened?"> ._.;

Maekrite: <"Mrph. Looks like they came along about a month late for a warm wel-">

Meinfoo #2: <"Don't push your luck, rabbit."> >:(

Golurk: -to Teala- <Let's just say that the moods are still a bit sour after the... various shifts in allegiance here.>

Mienfoo #1: -listens to Teala, turns- <Oh, and then there's you.> -- leaps in and scoffs -- <I was wondering where you and the jerk pincushion were!>

Maekrite: <Rrrrr....>

Mienfoo #1: <I think I'm going to send you two to the bridge section of the moat.>

-The Druddigon sizes up the two captures, not helping but to feel that their state to be somewhat unfair. But ultimately deciding not to press the issue. After all, there were surely many, many others who were in similarly unfair situations because of their cohorts-

Teala: <"Meep. A little harsh, but... Um... Okay... What's there?">

Mienfoo #1: <Oh it's not what but who. Let's get moving!>

-And the rest of the group is lead away, but not before they can take a last look at that section of the moat. The Pignite is struggling to keep his head above water while a Garbodor watches from the shore without concern, reprimanding him for taking too long; meanwhile, the prisoner Flygon and a Venomoth are pulling something from the water, a large object that at first glance appears to be the carcass of some sort of vehicle-

Prisoner!Pignite: <Don't I.... glurb... get some con...glurb...sideration????> -- struggles more.

Ashore!Deerling: <Yeah, about the same you gave my Trainer and his family!> -- kicks some water towards the Pignite.

-A certain Druddigon is somewhat taken aback at the particular venom being exhibited while carrying on... But somehow... It strikes her as rather unsurprising. And prods her to attempt to explain the matter to a Nidorino-

Teala: <"Um... Sorry if that made you uncomfortable... We... Don't really have much of a tradition of letting things go here.">

-Maekrite walks by the Druddigon looking somewhat distraught, looks up at her-

Maekrite: <I can imagine. Dragons live for so long that if someone causes you harm like that, it can last for an entire life.>

-The Mienfoo leads the group to a section of the moat where there is a small bridge. Right before the bridge there are some trees and thickets, and some voices can be heard coming from there-

???? #1: <...and I can give you three Star Pieces for it.>

???? #2: <...was minding my own business when we sensed a call. I was among the first to respond, of course~>

???? #3: <I'm telling you, I was inside! And the secret ingredient of Croagunk Cola is-> -- the voice fades amidst the rest of the conversations.

Mienfoo #1: -to Maekrite- <You'll find yourself working here. As well as you,> -- turns to Teala -- <though I don't like the idea.>

-Flustered-

Teala: <"H-Huh? ''Why?'' What's wrong?"> ._.;

Mienfoo #1: <Well, your instructor did not agree to have you this far from the Tower.>

-The group arrives to the opening of the bridge and meet various mons there, most of them carrying out various sorts of trades with items collected from the moat or the nearby cities.

By the trees, a Sawsbuck male is trying to sweettalk a female-

Karus: <…so I told him, if he wanted to go inside so much, we'd lead him to the Pit.> -- attempts to showcase his antlers to the female -- <I sent him flying so hard with my ram, we had to send a Dragonite to go fetch him.>

Random Sawsbuck♀: -leers- <Yeah, whatever you say...> -- and turns away.

Maekrite: <…Rrrrr... He did NOT send me flying.> >_>

-Hastily interjecting-

Teala: <"B-But I can help! I'm here, let me do something!">

Mienfoo #1: -crosses arms- <…It seems you don't get it, don't you?>

-Meanwhile one of the other Mienfoo leads the Oshawott away, then comes back to fetch the Minccino who was trying to trade a small stone-

Mienfoo #1: -to Teala- <I'm told you volunteered to help. And that's nice and all, really,> -- adds in a friendly tone -- <but your instructor says you should be learning how to be a guard instead.>

-The last Mienfoo meanwhile pokes Maekrite-

Mienfoo #3: <Time to go swim, pincushion.>

Teala: <"But... I didn't volunteer to be a guard... I've already ''been'' a guard once... And... I think I hurt things more than I helped...

I...

I volunteered to help my friend...">

-The Mienfoo glares at Teala and sighs-

Mienfoo #1: <Whatever you want.>

-Meanwhile Maekrite is getting to the shore of the moat with the third Mienfoo, who then goes call some not-very-random mons who are standing by the bridge-

Mienfoo #3: <Guys! Look who has a janitor shift at the moat today!>

-And a Dragonite peeks from above the bridge-

Guard!Dragonite: <...my my,> -- laughs -- <isn't it the troublemaker? I was wondering what had been of you. Hey, Karus!> -- turns away and waves a paw -- <come see who's here!>

-the sound of a conversation being interrupted and the hoofsteps of a Sawsbuck leaping away can be heard-
Karus's voice from beyond the bridge: <...You f!$·%!$%&&%·&!ing... idiot! I was busy there! Almost had it!>

-Observing the side of the bridge-

Teala: <"Erm... Do we... Climb down there, or...? I mean ''I'' could probably make it, but... Those aren't exactly good footings...">

-The third Mienfoo can be seen facepalming at the Dragonite, then he starts instructing Maekrite on how to wade towards a specific part of the moat-

Mienfoo #1: <Uhm... s-since you are so concerned... I guess...> -- looks around -- <Okay, follow me.>

-And guides Teala past the bridge, towards an embankment covered by fern and mold-

Mienfoo #1: <You should get an easier footing if you descend by the edge of the fill. I'll follow you.>

Teala: <"Okay...">

-And carefully descends down the embankment, into the water, and promptly stops dead in her tracks-

Teala: <"ARGH!">

-Which coming right at the end of the thaw... And heading INTO it...-

Teala: <"The Dratini live in this at this time of year?! It's freezing!"> @_@

-The Mienfoo sweatdrops-

Mienfoo #1: <...I guess I forgot to mention that there is a small platform to the left... it is about knee-depth, or even less...> -- looks around -- <But I guess it can't help you dragons much.>

-Meanwhile, Maekrite is already getting to work, dragging some floating pieces of rubbish closer to the shore for other mons to handle. Above, the Dragonite looks with an ample smile-

-Sighing, deeply embarrassed by her outburst-

Teala: <"Uh... Thanks..."> >[[red:///]]<

-And gets out to attempt to slowly wade into the water and acclimate from the platform-

Teala: <"Gih!">

-Which goes somewhat slowly-

Mienfoo #1: -in a somewhat ashamed tone- <…Maybe he was right about you. You are a weakling.>

-And descends down the embankment, one foot into the water… and stops-

<...Or maybe not.> >_>

-Meanwhile further ahead in the moat-

Mienfoo #3: <....No, I guess that's not the one. Come and pull from this side.>

Maekrite: -wades ahead, stares- <...Just how long is this thing?>

-The Meinfoo's offhand words prompt Teala to freeze for a moment, and then shake her head-

Teala: <"No... I can't be a weakling! I was there! Helping everyone fight!

... Am I?

N-No! Of course not! Weaklings couldn't... Couldn't do... This!">

-And against her better judgement, slips completely under the frigid waters to try and speed up the process of acclimating with the water-

Bubbles Over Teala's Position: <"...">

-Which are quickly replaced by the form of a Druddigon struggling to the surface, driven out by the shock of the cold-

Teala: -cough cough gasp- <"Urgh...">

-Thinking-

Teala: <"Aww... I couldn't even do that? But... And... Oh...">

-Maekrite's ears pick the bubbles and the Nidorino turns around to see Teala, a puzzled look in his face-

Mienfoo #3: <…Hey! What is going on in there? You, the dragon, are you okay?>

-Somewhat sluggishly, the cold starting to get to her-

Teala: <"I'm- I'm okay... Just let me get some of these... What are those again?">

-And grabs some clutter pinned up against one of the bridge's supports, struggling to move her limbs-

Maekrite: <…You don't look okay.>

Mienfoo #1: -shivering- <Mon, guys, is the water here usually this cold?> -- and goes shake himself a short distance from Teala.

-Meanwhile, a certain Dragonite from above seems to have noticed and looks down-

Dragonite: -to Teala- <…Hey you! What are you doing down there, fellow drake?>

-Avoiding the Dragonite's gaze and continuing to struggle to continue moving clutter-

Teala: <"I- I'm trying to help... The... Someone... Wanted me to help clean this- And I-">

-And trails off, looking rather unwell and increasingly non-lucid-

-The Dragonite looks fairly concerned about Teala's well-being-

Dragonite: <...Ugh... poor drake, looking at her gives me shivers...>

-Maekrite meanwhile manages to swim back to the shore-

Dragonite: - turns to the Mienfoo, roaring -- <Dare to treat a fellow drake like that? You have the prisoner there to freeze on the job!> -- points to Maekrite.

Maekrite: <Care to come down here and force me to do it?> -- shakes off some poisonous quills.

Mienfoo #3: <Oh dear heeeere we go again.> -- swims back to the shore.

Mienfoo #1: -follows Teala- <....H-hey! You're not looking any well... hey! Can you hear me?>

-Somewhat dazed, but able to pick out a voice nonetheless-

Teala: <"H-Huh?">

-Maekrite tries to make his way towards the Druddigon, as does one of the Mienfoo-

Mienfoo #3: -to the Dragonite- <Can you not do this now? Don't you have somemon else to pester? Like, Karus?>

-And something is heard a small distance away-

Karus's Voice: <…What? No way, I'm outta here!>

-Hoofsteps can be heard running away-

Dragonite: -smirks- <…Nope. Your turn today. So, stupid furpiece,> -- looks down to where Maekrite is -- <why do you have a drake doing a prisoner's work?>

-And Maekrite reaches to where Teala is and nuzzles her.-

-The Druddigon climbs out of the frigid water and shivers a bit, ready to attempt to shake some of the water off when...-

Teala: <"Hnn?">

-She notices a Nidorino's snout slowly caressing her frigid body-

Teala: <"Maekrite? Is that you? I'm not...

I'm not getting you into trouble, am I?">

-Maekrite checks Teala's hide and frowns-

Maekrite: <I'm going to get into trouble myself if that Dragonite keeps speaking...>

-Meanwhile the Dragonite is arguing with one of the Mienfoo; the other one goes for some herbs and comes back some moments later, gives them to Teala-

Mienfoo #1: <Eat this, Druddigon. It'll keep your blood from freezing until we can get you somewhere warm.> -- looks back to the moat -- <And enough work for you today.>

-Looking at the ground with rather defeated body language while accepting the herbs and consuming them-

Teala: <"Okay...">

Maekrite: <...What happened, Teala? Did you get hurt or something?>

Mienfoo #1: -nervously- <...They're going to have my head if they find out about this...> >_>

Teala: <"I don't know... I mean... I wanted to help you and all but...

I... I wound up being a burden on everyone else, didn't I...?">

-Maekrite frowns and is about to answer but is distracted by a Zebstrika and a Charmeleon who have just arrived-

Mienfoo #1: -sighs- <You two, take the Druddigon to the opening of the caves. And keep her warm.>

Maekrite: <Okay, here we go...>

-And helps the Charmeleon pull Teala out of the moat, but is held back by the Mienfoo after a moment-

Mienfoo: <...Where do you think you're going? You still have work to do.>

-Maekrite and the Mienfoo glare at each other-

-Hearing the Mienfoo-

Teala: <"Huh? But... Oh...">

-Maekrite tries to argue with the Mienfoo to be let go with Teala, to no avail-

Mienfoo: <...caused enough trouble to her already. And to me.>

Maekrite: -ears down- <B-but I haven't done anything yet! We just arrived!>

Mienfoo: -snorts- <...Precisely my point! Get back to work, please, I'll let you know how is she by the end of the day.>

-Maekrite rubs a paw against Teala's hide-

Maekrite: <…I guess... I'll be seeing you another day.>

-Stammering, recalling why it was that she put herself through that frigid hell and trying desperately not to be sent off-

Teala: <"W-Wait! But! S-Surely there's something that I could do! I'm supposed to be helping him!">

-And stopping... And perhaps noticine some stares directed at her and continuing in a small voice-

Teala: <"I'm supposed to be... Helping him...">

Mienfoo: <I don't really get it. You don't have any commitment to this.>

-The Charmeleon sighs-

Charmeleon: <Well, at least she's brave... My dad tried to slurp some of the water for drink and he's crying like a hatchling...> -- pats Teala.

Maekrite: <You have helped me, really. It's just....> -- takes a look at the moat -- <today is not the day for it, I guess.>

-The Dragonite meanwhile is spewing some diatribe about how Maekrite should be given extra punishment as yet another guard has been hurt because of him-

Teala: <"I... I have? But...

When?">

Maekrite: <In the trial, and with the trees... and that little scene with the sulking Dratini that we'd rather not talk about.> -- scratches an ear.

Mienfoo: -crosses arms- <Come on, enough reminiscing! What, you want the Druddigon to freeze?>

Maekrite: -steps back- <...No...>

Teala: <"I... I guess I should go...">

-And turns to head off... Before pausing for a moment-

Teala: <"Maekrite, wait!">

-Maekrite was already being led away by the Mienfoo; the Nidorino shoves the Mienfoo aside (causing the poor Pokémon to dangerously lose balance and almost fall to the freezing-cold moat) and approaches Teala again-

Maekrite: <Y-yes?> -- and raises his ears.

Teala: <"U-Um... Maybe I don't have a right to... But... Can...

Can I ask you a favor?">

-Maekrite thinks for a moment then sits on the ground, signaling approval-

-Meanwhile the Charmeleon, a bit oblivious to the scene, is swinging his flaming tail at Teala's legs, trying to keep them warm-

Teala: <"If... If you see anyone else out here having trouble like I was...

Can you... Help them for me?">

-And shakes head a bit-

Teala: <"I'm really sorry... I shouldn't be asking you to do work for me... I should be doing this by my-">

-Maekrite is quick to pat Teala.-

Maekrite: <Sure... I'm going to help. Perhaps I can teach some of these dragons some manners.> -- and leers back at the Dragonite briefly.

-Maekrite listens to the part about the work- <...And don't worry about that... perhaps you could help me by taking care of Silent.> -- shrugs -- <I'd bet Kat and Milo are tired of him already.>

Teala: <"I... I'll try... I mean... I guess I'm okay with young mons...">

-And plods off reluctantly, leaving a certain Nidorino behind-

A Couple Hours Later - Within Dragonspiral Tower's Depths

-A certain Druddigon is curled around a small fire consisting of lit kindling for warmth... Staring into its faint embers-

Teala: -sigh- <"... I really messed that up, didn't I?">

-When she suddenly feels a sensation on her crest-

Teala: <"Huh-?">

-And sees the face of a Nidoran poking into hers-

Silentran♂ <"O hai~ Are you feeling any warmer yet?"> :3

Teala: <"Uh... I mean... I guess I a-">

Silentran♂ <"So... You can take me around the tower then? There just so much that I haven't seen yet! Why, with that number of places I can go now that I'm small and cute, I could probably spend an eternity in here!"> :3

Teala: <"I... Guess I can help... I mean, I said I was going to...">

-And progresses down a hallway slowly, carrying the mantle of one of her more reluctant peers-

Silentran♂ <"You make a really good perch. You move smoothly and don't jolt up and down too much."> :3

Teala: <"Uh... I mean, I can walk faster if that's what you-"> ._.;

Silentran♂ <"Oh, no worries! If you walked faster, I wouldn't be able to see the ceiling frescoes!"> ^_^

Teala: <"Huh?">

-And looks up, and sees that indeed, this portion of the tower has the remains of some once-proud frescoes on its ceiling. Much of their detail since lost to history, but apparently depicting a scene involving Reshiram and Zekrom-

Teala: <"Oh. I didn't know we walked into this part...">

Silentran♂ <"Oh~? Is it used for something special?"> :3

-Grunting a bit, and looking back down at the floor-

Teala: <"... I don't know... And if it was, I probably wouldn't be able to give a decent explanation of it.">

-Hopping off of Teala's head and darting in front of her-

Silentran♂ <"Hmm? Somehow I thought that you'd be more excited about your home. You always seemed to have a lot to talk about it to your friends..."> :?

Teala: <"I do... And I... I guess I should feel lucky to be able to come from here... But...">

-And droops a bit-

Teala: <"I don't know... I just feel like dead weight...">

Silentran♂ <"Hmm? Did helping Maekrite not go so well? I know you had to come in earlier than normal..."> :?

Teala: <"It's just-

Whenever I try and help him... I sometimes can't help if I'm making things worse."> :(

Silentran♂ <"Nonsense! Maekrite may be a big kit, but he can take care of himself! And honestly... I think he really does appreciate your help. His mood's improved a bit during community service with you around.">

Teala: <"Huh? I'm... I'm not sure if I follow-">

Silentran♂ <"Come on, if you hurry up, you might be able to see him get off his work for the day! Who knows, maybe he'd be able to wave back at you!"> ^_^

-And scampers towards the periphery of the tower, and onto a gap that was perhaps once a proper windowsill-

Silentran♂ <"Ta-dah!"> ^_^

Teala: <"... You've been watching him all this time?"> ._.;

Silentran♂ <"When I can, of course. After all, I'm not the only kit that needs to be looked out for. See, there he is right there!">

-And points out the tired form of a Nidorino walking down a bridge. When some noise can be heard carrying from further aside, which causes the Nidorino to pause for a moment-

???: <"Oh for crying out loud, you two lazy clods! How on earth did you get it stuck deeper in the mud?!">

-Which also catches the attention of the observing Nidoran, and directs it towards two forms struggling in some frigid water-

Silentran♂ <"Ah yes... I think there was some sort of salvage excavation or something over there?">

Prisoner!Tepig: <"Urgh... We've been moving it towards shore! Like you wanted!">

Guard!Golett: <"Well, move it differently!">

Prisoner!Flygon: <"B-But we can't reach under it!">

Silentran♂ <"Not fully sure why they wouldn't put better mons on the job for digging it out. Those two seem to have been struggling with whatever's under there all day!">

Teala: -sigh- <"... Don't worry about it... It wouldn't be our position to do anything anyw-">

-And her thoughts are cut off by the sound of a splash from the bridge, as the form of a Nidorino vanishes-

Teala: <"Maekrite!"> D8

Silent: <"E-Eh?! Why on earth would you leap back into the water? Your job's over!">

-And their eyes attempt to scan for any sign of the Nidorino, as a certain Druddigon prepares to hop the gap and glide down to the bridge-

Teala: <"Pl-Please hang in there! We're c-!">

-When there is the sight of movement at the wreck not too far away-

Ashore!Deerling: <"Eh? What the-?">

-As the sight of a large tangled mass of mud-caked metal, perhaps once a jeep, is thrown from the moat and onto the shore-

Guard!Golett: <"What on earth was-?!">

-And is answered by the form of a Nidorino emerging from the moat, and shaking off some water from his fur-

Maekrite: <"Is that moving it differently enough for you?">

Teala: <"Huh?!">

-Unimpressed-

Silentran♂ <"Oh... Of course."> -_-;

Guard!Golett: <"What do you think you're doing? That's not your j-!">

Maekrite: <"I didn't know it was also a tradition for you mons to complain about extra work! My obligation for the day is done already!">

-Spluttering incoherently-

Guard!Golett: <"But- That's- And! Rrgh! Go back and rest! When we want you to work again, we'll tell you!">

-Shooting a leer at the golem-

Maekrite: <"Gladly.">

-As the Nidorino departs, a certain two wade out of the water-

Prisoner!Tepig: <"Um... Thanks?">

Prisoner!Flygon: <"Yeah, we thought we were going to be stuck with that thing all night! How come you stopped to help us out though?">

Maekrite: <"Mrph. Don't worry about it. And use your heads a bit better the next time you get put to work!">

-And carries off along the moat leaving the two staring at each other as some mons come to observe the excised wreckage, which prompts an observing Nidoran to sigh-

Silentran♂ <"Sorry... Maekrite can be a bit stubborn sometimes... Though I can't understand why he would show off like that."> >_>;

-Blinking. Suddenly remembering her parting words to the Nidorino a few hours ago-

Teala: <"... Maybe he thought someone would appreciate it.">

[spoiler]Special thanks to Silent for helping with this.

Later That Week - Dragonspiral Tower - AU

-For a number of days, a certain Druddigon had been struggling with a matter that had been on her mind... And continued to gnaw at her even as she peers at the form of a resting Nidorino from some shrubs beyond the rock he is resting on.-

-... 'If you want someone to know how you feel...

Just tell them...'-

-The Nidorino, having just gotten through a session of trying to teach a certain Nidoran♂ Fury Attack. He lies alone and frowns as Silent talks and plays with some other Pokémon, taking advantage of the thaw swallowing up the snow and longer days accompanying the onset of spring to graze at its first and still-tender shoots from the ground.-

-Shaking head-

Teala: <"U-Um... I mean... I guess it's worth a shot...">

-And emerges from the shrubbery towards the rocks-

-Maekrite's ears flicker and he turns his attention to Teala, blinks and growls a welcome-

Maekrite: <…H-hey. How are things going inside the Tower?>

Teala: <"U-Um...">

-Just tell him...-

Teala: <"I... I mean, it's warmer... So th-that's good?">

-... Not that!-

Maekrite -ears lower: <I guess... with the winter mostly over.>

-He stands up and stretches his legs-

Maekrite: <I, for one, enjoy staying outside. Soon the days will be warmer enough that your kind will be able to spend all day outside, yes?>

Teala: <"U-Um... Yeah... Spring's a lot nicer...">

-Come on, just tell him already!

B-But how do I even start?!

... I know! Talk about his home! Silent said he missed it, maybe he'd want to talk about that!-

Teala: <"Are- Erm... Is Spring at your home like this at all?">

-Maekrite blinks and thinks back to home for some moments-

Maekrite: <Uhm... not quite. I mean we don't have to get rid of all that snooooow...>

-And waves a paw idly, then scratches the dirt-

Maekrite: <And things would be kinda frenzier. The guys and I...>

-And he cuts himself short there-

-Internally panicking a bit-

-Wh-What?! He w-wasn't supposed to feel awkward like that!-

Teala: <"... Huh? What's- What's wrong?">

Maekrite -sighs: <N-nothing. I just… never got to actually spend a spring back at home as an adult...> -- and blushes a bit at the comment.

-He looks away for a moment then circles over his spot-

Maekrite: <The other me… But, uhm...> -- sighs again -- <I guess it'd feel different. Back then it was all play.>

Teala: <"I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to make you feel-!">

Maekrite: <…Homesick? Don't worry.> -- looks down to the ground -- <I'm getting used to it.>

-Then he turns back to Teala and stares at her for a moment-

Maekrite: <Uhm... you just… don't feel worried about it?>

Teala: <"U-Um... I mean... This ''is'' my home and all, and-">

-Maekrite examines Teala's reaction for a moment, paying ear to her-

Maekrite: <…Y-you okay?>

Teala: <"Aah! Th-This was all just a terrible idea! I'm sorry! I thought that you'd want to-! To talk about-!">

-Maekrite looks a bit nervous as he sees Teala hesitate-

Maekrite: <…Idea? Did I say something wrong?> ·_·

-And tries to approach and pat her-

Maekrite: <We can talk, right? It's just I'm a bit… moody, I guess.>

Teala: <"I... I didn't want things to turn out like this... I- I just wanted to-">

-And struggles to form her next words in her maw-

Teala: <"Wanted to-">

Maekrite -sits and looks up to Teala: <What's wrong?>

Teala: <"I- I li- Think I lo-">

-And continues stammering-

-Maekrite doesn't get what is obviously going on and just looks at her with an expression that slowly progresses towards a minute, but recognizable, level of annoyance-

-Beginning to look downcast-

Teala: <"... M-Maybe I should just leave you alone...">

-Maekrite just looks at Teala then lowers his head, thinks for a moment-

Maekrite: <If you're feeling ill or something… I guess you could take a rest…>

-And looks away to where Silent is discussing with some other humon-

Maekrite: <…I should, as well.>

-Looking utterly crushed-

Teala: <"Okay... I... I can do that...">

-And trudges off slowly and in low spirits-