[Mr. Game & Watch]

Shade continued to watch the altercation, plotting his next move. He didn’t think that his revenge against the duo would be coming so soon, especially since he only recently learned of their presence on Li. All things considered though, his only best move against them was to make no move at all. Black and White were already at each other’s throats and considering the power of Reshiram and Zekrom were in play, he had nothing that could match or contend power-wise, not unless they were weakened. His best odds were to let them wear each other down and then strike once a victor was claimed. It was just a matter of perpetuating the fight, which the onlookers seemed to be trying to prevent. It might be good practice to silence them, in particular the boy who was attempting to mediate the violence.

---

In the meantime, Bisharp stood in shock as he watched the Blaziken get demolished by stone edge. On top of that, it looked as though none of his attacks really did much to damage to the big black beast, and he was basically on his own once the fiery chicken was down for the count. Sure, there was an abundance of legendaries flocking to the area and people talking tough, but they weren’t doing anything to oppose or aid in the conflict.

Bisharp didn’t move, mostly because he had to consider his options in 1-v-1ing a Pokemon of Zekrom’s magnitude. A blast from the dragon’s breath enveloped the spot he was residing at, activating his bubble shield to prevent the attack from damaging him. He was feeling more like a pawn in this game rather than a bishop. He was confident in the idea of running from battle, but almost like he was getting smacked by his master for even thinking that, the thought was discarded. It was no more for the thrill of the fight, but fear of disciplinary measures if he didn’t do as Shade wanted him.

The Pokemon prepared a battle stance, but then his radio began to beep. He quickly switched it on to receive orders. “The boy. Get him out of there” the voice commanded. Between him and Zekrom, that was the far easier target. Bisharp circled around the mighty dragon, to not provoke the creature into thinking he was setting up for another strike. From there, the Pokemon barreled toward the center of the battlefield, tackling Purple out of the way, in a manner that could be interpreted as concern for his well-being to prevent him from getting caught up in the crossfire.

HP: 180% Shield: 15% Status: N/A

[Coolshaymin]

Mienshao could  not help but watch in horror as Blaziken paid dearly for dedicating himself to such a pointless fight. He was horribly beat down by the Zekrom without mercy.... She should feel bad but it was his fault for trying to continue such a pointless and hopeless fight,. He should of really just given up when he had the chance.... No, she should of stopped him. She knew he was making a horrible mistake and did nothing. She just watched his trainer retrieve the foolish bird's body..... Why, why was she powerless? She was a proud and strong fighting type!

.... That was when Mienshao noticed Bisharp making a move towards Purple instead of Zekrom... Something did not seem right.... And while she was unsure what was wrong with this picture, she knew one thing. Bisharps were not meant to be trusted, especially not alone. Something was not right. With Bianca distracted by Touko's hand, Mienshao made her move. The fast fighting type made her way in a flash like step straight towards Bisharp. Intending to intercept the other Pokemon, she made an attempt to stop him with a short hop and a knee to it's side to send it flying away from the purple trainer. (What do you think you're doing? You can't be trying to protect him! His fighting type may be out of commission, but I will gladly take his place in the meantime,") Mienshao snarled at the Bisharp. It may just be some animal sense.... and her personal grudge, but she was sure this Bisharp was up to no good!

(Mienshao attempts to intercept Bisharp with a Low Hi Jump Kick, 32% damage if it hits)

"White.... Don't," Bianca spoke up. "I... Wanted to fight by your side. Take that step with you together, but Touko, don't you see? This fight won't accomplish anything but innocents getting hurt. She said herself, the Plasma she rules is Ex-Plasma. They aren't as bad and while it might be a trick.... No, I am sure it's not. I just know what she is saying is true. Even Mienshao knows it. She felt bad for what she did despite having every reason to hate Plasma. Please, White, let's not let this escelate any further or there will be no going back.... I know you feel lied to but wouldn't you of reacted this way to start? Please, let's just settle down and talk this over, both of you! She's not even attacking anyone not fighting back!!" Bianca pleaded with her friend. If anyone she would listen to, it had to be her childhood friend, right?

".... Also, that tattoo man and the warlord is just threatening to bring back, Ghetsis. I am pretty sure out of everyone here, they are not on our side," Bianca added, absolutely horrified by the idea of that guy just wanting to bring back such an evil man.

[Mari]

Black looked at Purple. White looked at Purple. He had brought up something that in turn brought up memories in both of them Memories that few people alive could claim they shared.

The knowledge of a battle between truth and ideals, and the destruction it could cause.

A ruined castle, stretching miles in every direction. A throne room. A man with long green hair. Reshiram and Zekrom faced off against each other. A battle so intense that it ripped the castle apart. Years later, Black had re-enacted this terrible battle, only without Reshiram at her side. And when she'd left, N's Zekrom left with her. Much like the other pokemon he abandoned. N had not just left her with his legendary dragon, however. He had asked Black something. A favor. A title. A mission. To teach the world how to be better trainers. To bring Pokemon and trainers closer than ever before!

...And then Black looked away. She seemed a little somber at the idea. It sure didn't seem like she wante to do this! White was reluctant as well. There was a tense silence. Neither of them were doing this because they wanted to.

But then, they were just humans. Trainers. And no matter how much Black had tried to avoid this, there was a limit to how far pacifism could go solving problems. Her gaze quickly snapped up to Demi-Fiend. He was yelling at her. Nobunaga was yelling at her. But Demi Fiend was coming right for her. Her eyes shot open wide as dinner plates at his words and she froze in place. She'd already been to Hell and... Well, it left a lasting impression on her. The kind she didn't ever want to revisit. It became really obvious that Demi Fiend had succesfully terrified Black.

"--...Wait, what was that last part?" White asked in bewilderment from nearby. She had Bianca begging her not to fight, telling her things that .. Well, they made sense! "...Are we the bad guys?" she asked Bianca, flashing a weirded out look over at Demi Fiend. Hello. When had that happened? She turned away from Black to reassure Bianca, but before she could continue that train of thought, the tension on the battlefield erupted with the shrill shout of a little girl screaming at a man on the street.

"YOU'RE A JERK!" Black shouted. She hadn't moved an inch, and Demi Fiend was now right in front of her. She had, however, burst into tears which now all but entirely blinded her as she got right up in Demi Fiend's face, giving him a good poke on the chest with her nail. "All I want to do is help people and pokemon live happier lives together!" Black shouted. And then... she pushed Demi Fiend! She seemed to refuse to let him stalk her any longer, and he would need to attack her or start moving the heck back if he wanted to stop her from pushing him again. "They run an orphanage for pokemon abandoned by their trainers you bully! They work every day to make up for what they did!" Black shouted as she continued letting out her anger at Demi Fiend. "Do you know what happens to abandoned pokemon that sleep on the streets here?? The Pokemon Butcher takes them! That's what's going to happen to all of the pokemon we're trying to protect. They'll die!! ...Because you put the only people who cared enough to protect them in h-hell for the crime of continuing to exist..." Black finished.

She then fell silent. White fell silent as well, casting a concerned look back at Bianca. After a moment, she returned her Reshiram with the hand that wasn't holding BIanca's. "...Thanks, B. ...I think I should go comfort her." she quietly replied, finally getting a word in. Because Shade's Bisharp had not attacked Zekrom last turn, he seemed to be forgotten. Even Zekrom turned its gaze away, leaving the bisharp free to act without fear of anyone except maybe that mienshao from interfering. Likewise, Black seemed to have been too busy being terrorized by Demi Fiend to respond to Nobunaga. She seemed slightly overwhelmed.

Black 135 HP 40 Shield Status: Blind

Zekrom 369 HP 60 Shield

[TartoonHand94]

Purple shifted his gaze back and forth between Black and White with mutual anxeity. Much to his relief they both seemed reluctant to engage in a battle and neither of them made a move to start one. Did they not want to fight after all?
(Did it work?) Nintenda broke the tense silence to ask the rest of her team.
(Welp, nobody’s standing on anybody’s neck yet so this must be working.) Kappineapple answered with an observant shrug.

Purple would be more than glad to call this a draw and have the two would-be combatants meet and shake on it, but a third challenger was sauntering across the field toward Black.
“Hey-hey now!” Purple tried to protest, frantically patting his person for his whistle. “If you want a turn at the queen you’re gonna have…to…wait yours?” His authoritarian tone floated up to a falsetto as the voice from the sky came down to make himself known. And he brought with him… A Second Zekrom? But How? Purple’s Pokémon cowered behind him as an ear-splitting roar heralded the presence of another flying legendary. This was one they recognized: Rayquaza!
“Guys? Did I just faint again?” A quaking Purple whispered to his team. “This all feels like a really, Really bad dream.” Another Zekrom, Rayquaza And a Hydreigon? Actually, the Hydreigon was the least unlikely.
(...This conflict has escalated quite unreasonably quickly.) Nintenda croaked diffidently.


Out the corner of one of her many eyes, Nintenda noticed Bisharp barrelling toward her trainer, likely to ram him with its sharp body.
(Master! Look out!) She quickly shouted, inadvertently his drawing attention to herself instead of Bisharp. Out the corner of another one of her eyes, the Ninjask saw Mienshao intercepting the Sword Blade Pokémon and kneeing him away.
(That was so cool! Where you At?)
“What the-?” Purple asked, finally looking the right way and flinching away from the impact. “What are you two doing? I Just Said Wait Your Turn!” he barked, having finally found his whistle. Nintenda and Kappineapple were quickly dispatched to handle the two.

(Ally #620 Mienshao, please accept my gratitude for your assistance in protecting my master.) Nintenda thanked Mienshao as she helped her up.
(Hey amigo, what was that all about just now? A warzone like this ain’t no place for a battle.) A confused Ludicolo asked as he hustled over to the downed Bisharp, while offering a webbed hand up. (You aughta watch your footing there. You almost hit the kid!) He chuckled as he offered a webbed hand up and gave his dirty head blade a good ol’ spit-shine.

Purple would have proceeded to penalize Mienshao and Bisharp for interfering with the fight that wasn’t happening if a third disturbance wasn’t erupting on the battlefield. Oh yeah, Demi-Fiend and Black. He almost forgot about them.

Purple didn’t fully understand what Demi-Fiend was talking about, but he completely understood how badly it was bothering Black. However, he understood her retort loud and clear. Mentioning the Pokémon Butcher in particular struck a chord with him. It triggered a flashback that he would’ve loved to keep repressed.

SPOILER: Click to show

A scene of a younger boy desperately fleeing into the Hoenn wilderness, a livid, cursing voice and a rain of butcher’s tools. In one arm, a distressed Torchic angrily spitting embers back at the voice but panicking not to be dropped, and in his other hand, a head wound that bled down his face. Thanks to the wound, he could barely remember how they escaped that black meat market, but in that moment all he could think was to Run. Run, keep running and don’t look back—or they’ll be next. And that’s all his pant-less legs, pants torn off with a meat cleaver, could do.

Back in the present, Purple held his hat where it covered the wound and clenched his other fist. Time to quit the referee bit.

“She’s right. You guys are jerks.” Purple tapped Demi-Fiend on the shoulder. “Sending people to the Netherlands and raising the dead back from there. Wh-where do you Houndooms get off making threats like that?” It was obvious from his voice that his heart was beating rapidly but he didn’t let that stop him from making his point. “W-with all your talk of justice and divine retribution, how can you be so cruel to those most in need of your help? You’re so obsessed with what Team Plasma used to be, you’ve blinded yourself to what they are now and and the real good they’ve done for Pokémon all over Li!” He came around to Black’s side without breaking eye contact. “Like you said, isn’t that Ghetsis guy already…serving time for his crimes? With him out of the picture, can’t you see the picture’s changed? His time may be up, but don’t his followers deserve the chance to atone for their sins? I think they’re doing a better job at making Li a better place than you are.” He scoffed, looking Demi-Fiend up and down. That did absolutely nothing to make this tough guy persona any easier to maintain. “This is not what heroes do. Heroes don’t go around picking random fights to intimidate people. They stay put and fight to defend and protect what’s important to them! The new Team Plasma know what’s important to them. That’s why they’re pacifists.” Yes, he was terrified, sure he could feel his legs turning to jelly, but he stood his ground none the less. He then raised his wavering voice a little louder, so Nobunaga can hear him. “So you can go ahead and tell Princess Peach what Black has done! She’d be just as proud of her as I am. And I’d join Team Plasma right now if it means defending them from the likes of you!” He decided, fighting his every instinct to take a confrontational stance and making himself a barrier between Demi-Fiend, Nobunaga and Black.
(Hold on there, Sparticus!) What was Purple doing? Didn’t he know this guy could sever his head with his finger nails? Sure, Black just stood up to him, but she’s got Zekrom to back her up. But His team’s a whole Pokémon short! Was he insane, or did he just trust Demi-Fiend not to be?

[Maverick Hunter Zero]

Demi-Fiend looked bewildered, a kubric stare having formed due to being called a jerk by no less than two people in one day. "I may be a jerk, but what about you... Have you ever gone toe-to-toe against a god in order to set right what once went wrong? Could all of Team Plasma hope to achieve what you have done whilst still attempting to atone? I think you might have a bit of a problem in letting your emotions get the best of you, which makes me doubt you are capable of walking the path I have taken. Just take a deep breath and relax... As I'm certain you will be able to calm down when I tell you that the Ghetsis you have beaten is not truly dead. Trophified yes, but not perma-dead." he said calmly before placing his hand on her shoulder, his eyes not wavering in the slightest, what he said might even ring true if it was to actually be believed.

In fact, what Naoki Kashima said next might bring all but Nobunaga to a screeching halt. "I might be remiss, but what if I told you that Lucifer told me of an alternate timeline where you simply did not exist to oppose your regions villain team leader, who would successfully take over their world unopposed. Let it sink into your minds so that when the time comes, you will learn to cope with it. The region's of Kanto, Jhoto, Hoenn, Sinnoh, Unova, Kalos, and even Alola are only a small part of your great world, and I'd hate to see you suffering by my hand or the hands of anyone else. Perhaps you can break the pre-existing status quo and learn to better yourselves, rather than this petty squabbling and infighting that can drive people up the wall." he added, placing the same hand on the top of Black's head and giving her a very rare smile, it was like he was channeling the spiritual essence of the Pokemon league champion before Iris took the position; Alder. Only this was the Demi-Fiend instead and his voice was showing no form of contempt, his well placed verbal daggers holding more truth in what he was saying than bald-faced lies, and it was up to all trainers to calmly accept this as a possible fact.

"Why would I want to bring back an irredeemable @$$hole who was driven into the depths of insanity, child. If those plasma grunts want to see true purity of Pokemon loyalty without the use of pokeballs, all they need do is see me for the proper guidance on how to bond with their Pokemon." Nobunaga said with a level of indifference never before witnessed, his black Rayquaza moved closer to him and the warlord sat down on its head. The Black Rayquaza would then lower itself down to look at Purple, showing no open hostility or outrage, rather a look that said that he should take his Blaziken to the hospital so it can be hit with a revive. Nobunaga's Zekrom simply stared down Black's Zekrom, showing a clear look of maturity beyond what Black's Zekrom could be capable of. "I feel it best to think, perhaps what the boy is saying might be true to a certain point of view." Zekrom said telepathically to the group at large.

[Mr. Game & Watch]

The situation looked to be defusing just as quickly as it began, or at least the likelihood of the two champions duking it out was significantly less. Shade was disappointed in all the pawns on the board as they were quick to realize the misunderstandings and trying to accommodate Black as best as they could. It seemed like if he wanted the conflict to continue he would have to make the right moves to prevent the situation from quickly turning on him. His bishop was snagged, and White took her king out of play. If he played this right though, Shade might be able to sneak in a move of his own.

Grasping at one of his Pokeballs, Shade tossed the device off the other side of the roof to hide the telltale flash of light from the trainers on the battlefield. Volcarona arose from behind the shack, though didn’t ascend too high into the sky. Shade pointed to where the Reshiram once stood and then to Black’s Zekrom whose attention was being diverted from the other Zekrom. He signaled his fire moth to move quickly as there was little time for them to make their façade believable, but there wasn’t much else he could do in his position.

---

In the meantime, Bisharp’s attempts at tackling Purple out of the line of fire was not going as well as planned. His movements seemed to be picked up by everyone in the surrounding area, most especially the Mienshao who intercepted his safety dive with a dive kick of her own. Her furious foot slammed straight through his armour, knocking the Bisharp down and causing him to uncontrollably tumble across the ground. His body finally came to a halt, causing him to pound the ground with a disgruntled fist. He was also quite shocked that he survived the experience at all considering his previous encounters with Fighting types, but that was a minor point.

As he rose from the ground, the trainer’s Ludicolo rushed to his side and began to brush him off in his own way. It was a bizarre gesture considering that almost everyone else seemed to be antagonizing him at this point, but Bisharp appreciated it none the less. It was odd, but he was developing a sense of respect for Purple’s Pokemon, something he didn’t often feel for an enemy’s pawns. In a sense, it cooled him down, preventing him from just blindly attacking Mienshao out of revenge. That said, something had to be done about her.

(Your master was in the middle of the battlefield, I had to get him out of harm’s way before one of those dragons did another attack) the Bisharp explained to the kappa Pokemon as he weakly raised himself onto his two feet. Once stabilized, Bisharp looked back to his master in the corner of his eye, picking up on his Fire-Type ally being summoned. He immediately pointed his metal mitt at Mienshao. (And what do you think you’re doing!? By attacking me you put that kid in more danger than I ever could, you could’ve hit us both!) Bisharp erupted, then turning to the Ninjask in an equally furious manner, trying to attract her attention even more. (And you reward this self-righteous creature, pitiful. To think, I betray my heritage to only be vilified when I try to do something right, people like you are the reason we’re in this mess.)

---

During Bisharp’s speech (and everyone else’s for that matter), Volcarona quickly swooped from her vantage point. She swiftly glided to Reshiram’s previous position, not too long after it was swept back into its Pokeball and released an Overheat directly at Zekrom, under the assumption that the Electric Dragon hadn’t noticed that Reshiram was gone yet and was still distracted by its twin. While it was not the furry dragon’s iconic attack, it was still an impressive torrent of fire that was near in strength to what the legendary could muster. Just as quick as it was to arrive, Volcarona swiftly u-turned off the battlefield, hiding amongst the buildings for the time being.

HP: 148% Shield: 20% Status: N/A

[Mari]

By the time Purple and Demifiend were done speaking, Black was just kinda staring at Demifiend with a blank look on her face. She'd stopped crying and dried her tears. ...Was there really any better way to lose someone than to bring up a bunch of theoretical universes? Maybe in one of them, she'd actually get what he was talking about. Glancing back at Zekrom and then the decisively still spooked Team Plasma Grunts, she became abruptly distracted by a hand upon her head. Looking up to Demifiend, she found herself smiling back without due cause. "That's what we're doing~!" Black replied rather light-heartedly. "Sometimes I think it's a lot easier for people to accept that the world can change than it is for them to accept that people can change. But people changing is how the world changes! We'll never create a better world to live in if nobody ever forgives each other." Black explained. White raised both brows, gesturing to Black. "She was like this before we even met Peach." White remarked, drawing attention to the resemblance between their personalities. "I guess Team Plasma is like your own little 'society' to you, huh? You're just trying to help them learn." White mused aloud. "Mmhm~! And not every lesson can be taught with a battle." Black replied.

And then out of nowhere, a fiery torrent washed over Zekrom. Reshiram had been returned, and yet the titan of a pokemon was being assaulted by hellfire! Zekrom, freshly pissed off, tried to track the attacker only to find itself blocked off by a building."...Some lessons have to be taught with a battle, though." White testily added, having taken notice of the surprise attack. "...Huh? Why would anyone want to hurt Zekrom?" Black asked in confusion. Zekrom's tail began to glow with an awesome power as the organic motor within spun to life, generating massive amounts of electricity. Acting independently, the legendary pokemon took to the air and levitated over the building, attempting to track down the offending pokemon. Apparently, it was unwilling to destroy the building to get at Volcarona--fitting for the dragon of ideals. In the process though, Zekrom had left Black and White alone and unguarded by any of their remaining pokemon. "Did you guys see anything?" White asked Bianca, turning her attention to Purple after a moment. Black was busy carefully watching Zekrom to see what the legendary pokemon was up to. it'd be a little too easy for things to get out of control if she didn't pay attention to Zekrom, after all. A couple of people glanced out of their windows to see what was casting such a large and ominous shadow over their building, only to recoil in fright as they saw the dragon hovering outside their windows.

Black 135 HP 40 Shield Status: Normal

Zekrom 300 HP 60 Shield

[TartoonHand94]

(oooOOOoooh. In that case, thanks for looking out.) Kappineapple slowly nodded in understanding of Bisharp’s lie.
(If your true intentions were as you say in opposed to what they resembled, then on behalf of all of us, I apologize to you, #625 Bisharp.) Nintenda solemly bowed her head to Bisharp.
(Yeah, what she said.) Kappineapple agreed, patting Bisharp on his padded shoulders. (But no tengas miedo, amigo. The kid’s got it under control.) He pointed the previously Pawniard Pokémon to peek at Purple’s peace keeping prowess.

Purple’s confrontational face molted into a more introspective stare downward as Demi-Fiends questions pierced his armor. No, he hadn’t gone toe-to-toe against a god before. Actually taking his advice and taking a breath, Purple looked back up to answer him--only to realize Demi-Fiend was only talking to Black, putting his hand on her shoulder and everything. Expecting Black to shove Demi-Fiend’s hand off her and order him not to touch her, Purple was surprised to find that she stopped crying instead. She even let him put his hand on her forehead. Well, she stopped crying, so he must have said something right. He was further astounded by Black’s abrupt return to her old perky self that he—anyway she was back! Is motivational speaking one of Demi-Fiend’s Houndoom powers or what?

A visibly relaxed Purple just stood back and let the rest talk it out. So Ghetsis is just a trophy? For everything he’d heard about him today, he didn’t know if that really counted as good news. Speaking of trophies, he had to get Clucky to a Pokémon Centre, so they could un-trophy him soon.

Purple must’ve missed something while lost in Black’s smile because something Naoki Kashima mentioned wasn’t making sense anymore.
“But-wait-How would that even work? If they all won, wouldn’t their goals clash with each other’s? Those pirate guys from Hoenn—Team Aqua, they wanted to flood the world! How does anybody else take over a world already flooded?” Purple scratched his hat at the idea. “Sounds like a really jank excuse for a Boss Rush.” Good thing he didn’t have to think about it long, because Oda Nobunaga had something to say now too.

As Purple looked up at Nobunaga’s to consider his offer, he froze in sheer terror; There was a shiny Rayquaza staring him down. How cool it was to see a shiny Rayquaza? The fact that nobody’s fighting anymore? Yeah, Purple was too scared to remember any of that because there was a gigantic black sky snake right up in his face with nothing to protect him from it. Sure Demi-Fiend was intimidating, but Rayquaza was petrifying.

(Look at ‘em. Standing around, chatting out their feelings, and look, how cute; Lil’ Purp’s having a staring contest with Big Ray. I think the kid’s winning!)
(Team mate #272 Kappa Pinapple the Ludicolo, need I remind you of Master’s debilitating phobia of serpentine Pokémon?) Nintenda interjected with sudden concern.
(Helix mío today’s like a bad dub! One misunderstanding after another.) Kappineapple shook his head upon realizing the obvious. (Okay stand back, this is a job for The Captain!) He proudly tipped his pad and took the initiative to march over to his trainer.

“…!” If Nobunaga’s Zekrom’s telepathy worked both ways, all it’d hear would be endless terrified screaming out of Purple. He didn’t even notice Black’s Zekrom getting hit with fire.
Wait-Fire? Was a battle really starting? Kappineapple’s peppy march evolved into a panicked sprint, which done by a Ludicolo became a frantic gallop.

“Ludicolo!” He bellowed as he glomped Purple to safety…taking Black, White, Demi-Fiend or whoever else was within his reach down along with him. Nintenda could only faceclaw.

[Mr. Game & Watch]

It seemed that Shade’s façade was a bit late in the making. While Volcarona returned to him with all the speed that she could muster, it brought the Zekrom into his neck of the woods. As much as revenge would satisfy, it was an uphill battle at this point. The two champions seem to have made amends, meaning he had to take on the whole group if he wanted to succeed. Both champions beat his master on their own, so it was incredibly unlikely that he could overpower them. He needed to beat a retreat and keep the legendary off his trail. He snagged at a Pokeball on his belt, though it wasn’t a part of his ordinary roster. He wanted to remain untraceable.

Out from the Pokeball arose a Mew. Just as quickly as it appeared, the Mew transformed into another Zekrom, using its own Bolt Strike against the dragon. In the meantime, Shade quickly retreated, swiftly and safely disappearing into the sea of buildings. With Zekrom occupied though, that meant that the two champions were exposed, and he still had a pawn in play in their area. Shade reached for his walkie talkie once more.

---

In the meantime, Bisharp was stunned that Purple’s Pokemon were so quick to believe him and the Mienshao seemed to back off after that. It was odd. He wasn’t really expecting his lie to be believed so easily. He couldn’t write it off as merely stupidity either, they seemed to genuinely trust him. As Kappineapple patted his shoulder, Bisharp looked to the ground, feeling disgraced by the praise he was gaining.

Despite their best efforts, the duo started to see eye to eye once more. Perhaps their relationship wasn’t quite patched up yet, but they were beyond the point of irrationality causing another feud. As Purple’s Pokemon conversed amongst themselves, Bisharp’s walkie talkie buzzed again. He silently scuttled a safe distance away and pulled the device out to listen to his master’s instructions. “The two are defenseless. Strike them down.”

The Bisharp looked at Black and White. Then to Ninten and Kappineapple. Finally to Blaziken’s trophy. While previously he would have merely seen them as targets, the events of the day changed his perspective to ‘Shade’s targets’ and people he had no beef with. The walkie talkie buzzed again, but Bisharp dropped it on the ground and ‘accidently’ crushed it underneath his foot. He took a brief jog, joining the water-type in defending the trainers, standing guard over the dogpile.

HP: 148% Shield: 25% Status: N/A

[Maverick Hunter Zero]

"I might not be able to feel ones pain, I do believe that a traitor is in our midst... But is hiding his presence so as to not be traced." Naoki Kashima said, now taking notice of Black's Zekrom having been hit by an attack. His eyes narrowed as he saw the Volcarona and traced it's trajectory of the U-Turn as it escaped, but what tipped the Demi-Fiend off was the fact that the culprit was indeed a trainer. "Maybe it would be about time you returned your Zekrom to it's ball." he added, taking note of a Mew being unleashed, which transformed into a Zekrom and let loose a Bolt Strike, which narrowed his eyes further.

"Rayquaza; take to the skies, Hydreigon; follow!" Nobunaga said, to which both took to the sky, leaving only the Zekrom that did not even use a move. "What is your bidding, my leige?" Zekrom asked, to which Nobunaga replied "Double Team, ambush the hidden threat and force them into the open. They know they cannot hide forever." Nobunaga said, giving his Pokemon a simple command to follow. Zekrom did as asked, and used it's Ninja trickery to create a Shadow Clone of itself, then both Zekrom and it's clone began to stalk shade, all in the bid to make him not only paranoid, but also to get the trainer out into the open.

[Mari]

((Appreciate the sentiment, Zero, but chasing Shade is a bit outside the scope of this thread~! I'd suggest making your own if you want to continue chasing him. ))

Of all the things Zekrom had seen in his long existence, another Zekrom popping out from behind the building seemingly out of thin air and blasting it in the face with its own signature attack was probably one of the most unexpected and infuriating things it had even encountered. Zekrom was struck down, hitting the ground rather hard. It gave Shade plenty of time to flee before anyone really understood they were supposed to be chasing anyone. Black watched the fallen Zekrom, her brows furrowing with disappointment. A traitor? Maybe. But why? For what purpose? What was the point of this battle?

White on the other hand already understood. They had enemies. Enemies who were interested in bringing them down without being seen. She'd never encountered an enemy that fought from the shadows before.

...Or had she?

Black reluctantly returned Zekrom. Such was the paradox of huge pokemon. Sometimes the balls were necessary. "I guess we almost had a fight over nothing! Let's go get drinks and cool off for a bit. How's that sound? All on me~" Black offered. "--...Hey, where'd that bisharp go?" she curiously asked, bewildered as to how they'd lost a team member. ...Oh well! She didn't have the insight to understand why. Perhaps one day she would, but for now they'd completely diffused the situation and answered some important questions about the nature of Team Plasma within the life sphere.

MISSION COMPLETE

[TartoonHand94]

(New ally #625 Bisharp, I would like to take this opportunity apologize on behalf of my teammates for their discommodious behavior.) Nintenda joined Bisharp, hovering at his side and overlooking the Ludicolo pile. (Contrary to what one may assume via simple observation, their actions were performed under the most propitious of intentions.) She buzzed modestly. (If anything could be learned from our experiences today, it is that misunderstanding is the most recurring cause for which the well-meaning plunge into conflict with one another.) She mused with a shrug. (Perhaps if these factions would take the time to understand one another rather than acting upon rash impulses of ignorance and malice, major crisis could be averted, greater wisdom could be obtained, and mutually beneficial relationships could be achieved.) She buzzed introspectively. (And maybe one day these Binacle-heads will quit making such fools of themselves.) She giggled wistfully before being cut off by Zekrom being attacked and the ensuing chase by Nobunaga’s forces.

(…Huh? Is it over?) Kappineapple opened his eyes and looked around to see Nobunaga, Hydreigon, Rayquaza, and Zekrom leaving in pursuit of the false Zekrom. Hey, Black’s treating us all to drinks? It is over!
“I never did get to finish my bubble tea...” A muffled voice lamented. It was then when the Ludicolo noticed something squirming underneath him, tapping to get his attention.
“…Co? Ludicolo.” Kappineapple apologized sheepishly, getting up and fighting his trainer still squished among the fluff of his tummy. “Cololu.” He chuckled, pulling the boy free and dusting him off.
“Thanks Kappin.” A drained Purple sighed before his Ludicolo straightened his clothes and turned him to face Black. “Yeah thanks a lot.” A second nudge from his Pokémon told him there was no getting out of this. It was now or never, so he had to just suck it up and say it.

“Say, uh, Black-I mean-uh Queen Black…” Purple began with quick genuflection after taking a deep breath.
“You’re awesome-I mean that sounds awesome. –Th-the drinks and stuff, I mean.” He grinned nervously with a hand behind his head.
“I l-I’d love to join you… But there’s something I gotta ask first…” He slowed down, taking another breath.
“I…I was wondering if I…I…” He hid his other trembling hand in his hoodie pocket where he found one of his pokéballs. His entire face changed upon remembering.
“…I gotta go.” He gave up on his question, hanging his head in defeat. “I gotta take Clucky to the Pokémon Center… ‘Cause, y’know… He’s…” He mumbled, clutching the ball rolling it between his fingers. Maybe he could wait another hour or two?...
“…I gotta go. B-but maybe we can do this some other time!” He backed away before breaking into a fleeing jog in the other direction. “Best wishes to you all till then!” He called out as he ran off into the forest of lamp posts and street signs.
“N-Ninjask~!” Nintenda waved goodbye, slightly embarrassed that she forgot about Clucky’s fainted status too, before zipping off behind her trainer, leaving Kappineapple to shake his head in disappointment. Welp, if you want something done right… He cleared his throat, taking Purple’s place before Black and White.

“Mis señoritas bonitas, hasta nuestra próxima reunión, adios~.” He suavely bid them farewell, scooping both their hands in his big green mitt and kissing them.
“Kappin! Come on!” Purple’s voice echoed in the distance. With a final wink, Kappineapple turned about and frolicked away.

[End of Presence.]

[Mr. Game & Watch]

The Bisharp nodded to the bug’s buzzes, though couldn’t exactly quite follow what was being said due to the Ninjask’s more complex speech patterns. Not to mention that the creature was paying a bit more mind to Nobunaga’s dragons taking flight in pursuit of the cloned Zekrom. His brute force approach to getting Shade out in the open probably wouldn’t work as well as he might think it would all things considered. Not to mention that if Bisharp’s hunches were correct, Shade would be long gone by now, likely ducking through passage ways that those big cumbersome Pokemon couldn’t possibly squeeze through.

While everyone else seemed to be going along on their merry ways, Bisharp had some tough decisions to make, or rather, deal with the consequences of the ones he already made. It felt like it was a long time coming for him though. As much as Bisharp was tempted to follow Purple and his Pokemon to heal one of their fallen allies, he was better off to prepare for the future.

Bisharp scampered off, the opposite direction from where Shade was skulking about. As he got his distance though, he was already missing the merry band of Pokemon.

End of Presence

[Maverick Hunter Zero]

"All is forgiven, I could do with a beverage of green tea anyway." Naoki Kashima said as he again walked into the building with the group.

He did not care for anything else at the moment, just to ensure that he stays outta trouble for the time being.

---

Nobunaga however, was rather irate that someone else was messing with him. Perhaps less so when his Zekrom came back to him empty-handed.

"Sorry My Leige, whoever was hoping that the two were going to demolish each other has eluded us." Zekrom said, shaking it's head in frustration. "No need, let's make tracks to our home, we got what we needed from that Abandoned Aether Foundation building a while back. Nobody shall use illegal research not approved by the founding heads of the Life Sphere... Not on this warlord's watch." Nobunaga replied, hopping onto Zekrom, who then took to the skies and sped off towards Harvest Acres, Rayquaza and Hydreigon following after them.

---

Naoki Kashima and Oda Nobunaga:
END PRESENCE