Outrage
StrangersLoversKillers
Chapter 3: Outrage
Those that have been following my stories by update (valley1-2-3-4 slk1 valley5 slk2) should be pleased with this episode. There's actually a plot now ^^. But seriously, I hope in this episode you can see how it's all coming together.
Bad language and maybe some sex (if you're lucky) so leave, kids. This story is property of exclamation man in association with �EM! enterprises, which does not own pokemon or anything else. [story time]
"I have reason to believe he killed Pannorr and Halinx."
"Really," Emyen replied. "That's crafty of him."
"It doesn't mean anything to you?" Ayola asked, twitching her tails. Her sleek Espeon body would have been very distracting to Emyen, had the Smeargle been interested.
"Halinx was superb at asking questions but only had one answer to his problems, and that was-"
"-to kill everyone," Ayola supplied.
"Yes. As for Pannorr, he took the map from the child, so if he had any idea what my plans were, it is convenient that he is dead."
"What if he didn't have any idea?"
"Then he was so dense that this Kolanar did us all a favor," Emyen stated conversationally. He had much patience but not a lot of charity. "Now, your question was if this action meant anything to me. Their lives, not so much. But the fact that this Kolanar took their lives, yes, that means something. Those lives were not his. He shouldn't have taken them."
"What will we do?" Ayola asked. Emyen seemed to always make those that spoke to him give more questions than answers. It was a perfect way to achieve his sort of power.
"If he's going to continue like this, then maybe yes, we will have to kill him," Emyen answered, despite the absence of a yes-or-no question. "But Kolanar is smart. He could be a good ally."
"Or a superior enemy."
While his team saw to each other's injuries, Jero, unscathed, spoke to Bolaran.
"It was never about something as petty as revenge."
"No," Bolaran confessed. "It never was. It was about protecting this valley." His voice was calm but rife with guilt. And grief.
"You were protecting more than that," Jero countered. His voice was never raised when he was angry, it only grew colder. "You were protecting yourself. Tell me, from what?"
"I knew there would be bloodshed, in one way or another," Bolaran stated. "But do not forget, a child was killed. Mylair, the young Cubone. He died because he knew..."
"Knew what?" It didn't sound like a question.
"He knew of Tarmyr's cave." This silenced Jero. He had known there had been a hidden motive behind Bolaran's plan, but he had not expected this.
"And them?" he asked after the brief silence.
"I expect their leader knows of it. Perhaps a few others, but there can't be many. They all know about the map, however. It is the motive behind their actions."
"What do they want? If they had the map, what would they do?"
"If they found the cave of Tarmyr, they would have power. Whoever the leader behind this is, the one that began the movement in the old compound, would be a tyrant."
"And this cannot happen."
"This cannot happen," Bolaran agreed. "What will you do?"
"Our affairs are with humans. We encourage the natural flow of things. I will ask my comrades if this is a situation in which we should interfere."
"And what will they say?"
"They are warriors. Warriors live to fight," Jero answered.
"For now, I must stay here. I cannot-"
"I understand." Jero cut him off. "Once we return, we shall help you search for your daughter."
"Thank you, Jero."
"My comrades and I need rest, and so do you. I must ask you one last question."
"Go ahead."
"You sought me out because you think me a warrior. You say you were protecting this valley. But I ask again, what were you protecting yourself from?"
"You are worthy of respect, Jero," Bolaran told him. "A lie would be so easy, but you deserve the truth. I sought you out and I lied to you. In this I was protecting my valley, my home. I lied because I was trying to keep you in the dark."
"I see now. I see your lie, both sides of it, and I see through the dark that it caused. You did not wish for me to know of the hunt for the cave until it was too late, and in that you have succeeded. You did not wish for me to know because you didn't want me involved at all."
"And I had no choice. What's left is clear."
"You do not trust me."
"No," Bolaran conceded. "I do not."
The subsequent actions proceeded like this:
Jero told them everything he had just learned, which everyone noted as the first time he had aver done so. Heather had been the first to figure it out, then followed by Jero and Blaze. She was a quick thinker; it was why she was respected by Jero. After they had discovered the dead Primeape, the three of them had rushed to find Terrin, Kerelli, and Slyver, a Golduck, who was their contact in the valley and had sided Blaze many a time. The two parties reunited in the midst of a fierce battle; the team had been ambushed by the river that was to the north of the valley. The combination of Jero and Blaze, with his Thunderpunch, had been enough to subdue the attackers, of which many were water types, but not before those fighting longer had sustained injuries. Slyver was trying to shrug off the pain from his hurt ankle and Terrin was ignoring the large slash diagonal across his chest given by a particularly vicious Croconaw. They were both much more concerned with the unconscious Kerelli. Terrin, a natural fighter, had been firm in telling Jero while completely disregarding his own bleeding torso that Kerelli had been the bravest of all them.
"I'll be damned if we lose her now," he stated.
"Terrin, don't be blaming yourself for this," Heather, who had a knack for reading emotions, told him. "You're the strongest poke I've ever met, and you fought as hard as you could."
"Doesn't mean anything," Terrin said without looking at her. "I'll be damned if she doesn't wake up."
"And why's that, Terrin?" Blaze asked. He was lying on his back with his eyes closed, and he already the answer to his own question.
"Because I'll be going back and they're gonna have to fucking kill me to stop me. They'll have to fucking kill me."
Blaze smiled with his eyes still closed and Heather was about to reprimand him or hit him, she couldn't decide, but Jero, letting Terrin's obscenities slide, spoke first.
"We need to come to a consensus about some issues that have arisen," Jero told them all. "Everyone in this valley, including us, is in very serious and imminent danger."
"What's new?" Blaze asked no one.
"There is a motive behind the violence in this valley. For years now, there has been a constant struggle for power. As the population increases, so does the anger of those that seek control."
"And why are these pokes so fucking bent on control?" Terrin demanded. His vehemence was still fresh in the air.
"Because when any living thing sees an opportunity for power-"
"-they don't stop 'til they get it," Heather finished for Jero. Terrin snorted in anger, then turned away. Blood was slowly running down his chest again, but his eyes were focused only on the body of Kerelli.
"Bolaran has been caught in this fight for some time now; he's become something of a leader for those wishing for peace," Jero went on. "He brought me, and therefore all of you, here to try to put a stop to this violence."
"What about his daughter?" Heather asked. "Was that just a lie?"
"No, she was a victim, and she was lucky to escape without any harm. It is also true that a friend of hers, a child, was killed."
"Peace favor him," Blaze put in. "What's the girl's name?"
"Natalia. She has since escaped from her parents' residence."
"What?!" Heather exclaimed. "You better be sure-"
"We are sure, Heather," Jero assured her. The use of her name seemed to calm the Ninetales some. "There are rather obvious tracks of her walking, not running, away."
"Moving right along..." Terrin prompted. His resentment did not fit his character, and it put the rest of the syndicate on edge.
"In any case, Bolaran was hiding the fact that these pokemon present a twist to the situation." Jero took a breath. "There is a map."
No one said anything, at first thinking he wasn't done, secondly taking in the weight of the statement. Jero continued before any interruption.
"There are two parts to this map. One belonged to the young Cubone that was murdered, and is now undoubtedly in possession of the 'enemy,' as you might put it."
"And the other half?" Blaze.
"I do not know, nor do I know anyone who does."
"And why is this map something to kill for?" Heather's eyes burned, an attribute from her mother passed down to her and her sister.
"It leads to a location known as Tarmyr's cave."
"Who's Tarmyr?" inquired Blaze.
"He is dead."
"Figures..."
"This cave is at the foot of a mountain near this valley. The cave is on the west side, not easily accessible from here, or anywhere. What is in the cave is disputed and will forever be disputed until someone enters and returns to tell the tale. The most popular idea, obviously shared by whoever attacked us, is that this cave holds the power to preside over this land by means of coercion."
"If there's coercion there's a threat," Heather countered. "What's the threat?"
"The threat is the destruction of all life in the vicinity of roughly fifty miles in every direction from the cave," Jero said plainly. No one said anything, or even moved, save for Slyver, who cocked his head to the side and shrugged imperturbably.
By all means, Kolanar was brilliant. He knew exactly what he was doing and what the outcome would be. Kolanar was a strategist and a fighter, and a stranger to all. Kolanar's hamartia was his need for power. He himself knew he wasn't secure unless he was in control. It was an effect of his childhood, but the only other being that knew that story was his younger brother. Kolanar had only knew of three pokemon that he considered to be smarter than himself. There was his brother Ryledar, his compatriot Lambent, and Emyen.
"You will never see me as your equal," Kolanar said simply. It was a bold statement, one that didn't necessarily help his situation but-
"That proves you're no fool," Emyen replied just as casually. "I understand you are wise enough to not underestimate me, and because of this I do not underestimate you. However, our "trust" is not the matter at hand."
"I have the other half of the map," Kolanar confirmed. He then changed his tone. "There is no reason that you wouldn't kill me after I gave it to you."
"What, you take me for a killer?"
"Yes."
"I am no murderer, Kolanar," Emyen assured him. "I may make deals with scum, but I am not among them."
"A poor excuse for your politics."
"Nevertheless, you came to me."
"Right." Kolanar exhaled and held his eyes closed for a moment. He then looked straight into the Smeargle's eyes. "I want your half of the map."
"I could say the same thing." He never missed a beat.
"But you have the upper hand," Kolanar pointed out. "Which really means I have the upper hand. It means no matter how much you want simply to dispose of me, you still need me."
"Kolanar, I am not currently interested in killing you." His tone was quite and sincere, and he addressed him by name. Emyen was either a lamentable mastermind or an unsurpassed liar. Or both.
"You would never find the map. We should be allies."
"Quite blunt, I see," Emyen noted. "But I am never interested in war, despite what you may think. Friendship has true value. Tell me, what do you expect in return?"
"That depends on who lives and who dies," Kolanar said sagely. "If neither of us succumbs to death, I would think we would avoid contact after I had gained a semblance of authority in the area."
Emyen laughed at this. "Have you ever heard the expression poker face?"
"I assume it is human."
"Oh, humans aren't all bad. As long as there's a clear line between our homes and theirs. I like the way you talk; you always choose to remain a complete stranger."
"It is how I survive."
"I suppose. You don't think we would be partners or anything?" Emyen's tone was nowhere near threatening, which Kolanar found extremely interesting.
"I believe it would be destined to collapse."
"Well, perhaps you are right. And why would one with the upper hand ask so little?" Emyen had him now. "I know you are wise in thought and speech, Kolanar, and I don't doubt what you have just said, but still I am curious. But I think I can answer my own questions. It all depends on who lives and who dies. Right?"
Kolanar's ever cold eyes were his only answer.
"Bring the map tomorrow night."
"When the moon is straight above. I will see you in the burned compound."
"Or hell."
"Get some sleep tonight, you two."
"You sound tired yourself, Jero," Blaze told him. "You've stopped using snappy puns in every sentence."
"None of us are perfect," Jero smiled an old, tired smile.
"Only Heather."
"Goodnight, Jero," Heather managed, stifling a yawn, then turning to lick Blaze across the cheek. The atmosphere had lightened significantly after the wellbeing of the syndicate had been confirmed. Half an hour earlier, to everyone's great reassurance. Kerelli had awoken and promptly vomited. The first words out of her mouth were "Not that easily," addressed to Terrin. The Scyther's anger had surprised the others. Terrin was normally a very docile creature, while maintaining enough force to rightfully intimidate any pokemon, including fire-types.
It was now on the boarder of night and morning, and the syndicate was enjoying the few moments of sleep they had had in many hours. The others had wisely left Blaze and Heather alone together. They lay side by side beneath the stars in the cover created by two fallen burned-out trees.
"I suppose this is a life-changing moment," Heather said softly. "If anyone is going to remember us, it'll be those in this valley, huh?"
"If. Yeah, I figure they'll remember us," Blaze answered her. "After the mess we leave, they're bound to." Heather laughed and nuzzled closer to him. The air was filled with the loud silence of the woods.
"If you get any more on top of me I'm going to light the grass on fire."
"And that might interrupt us," Heather smiled. "A problem for you Typhlosions."
"Uh-oh, better slow down, I'm running out of snappy retorts."
"Well, you know I like you better when you stop talking." At this he kissed her, letting the eerie yet comforting drone of life far away break into their dialogue. The only light was that cast from the flames issuing from Blaze's back. Their lips broke contact and Heather looked into Blaze's eyes.
"It feels like the end of something, doesn't it?"
"What does this night bring the end of?"
"I don't know," she admitted. "But where do we go from here? What do we do? What's life after this?"
"Keep fighting," Blaze reflected. "Keep loving."
"Keep on living, right?"
"That comes first, right after breathing."
"It'd be a waste of breath to not truly live."
"Those are the words that led you here," Blaze observed. "That's tough, you know, to set out with a goal that you know you might not achieve. But that's life, isn't it? You've made it this far; hell, so have I. And here we are. Which begs the question..."
"What are we doing," Heather murmured. Blaze looked at her again.
"If being in love and fighting for a cause isn't living then I might as well stop wasting air. We're a lonely bunch of fuckups, that's for sure, but we might as well be lonely together. Here, we're seeking out killers. We're trying to make right what has gone wrong. It's not going to bring back that kid Mylair's life, but I'll be damned if we're not gonna avenge him."
"Revenge is such an inane thing," Heather remarked.
"Alright, a poor choice of words on my part. Jero would be ashamed. But we are a group of individuals trying to make things better for all the innocent lives weaving in and out of this valley. Doesn't that have significance? Aren't we making a difference?" Blaze asked rhetorically. "There is not a whole lot we can do in this life, but I'm here to do it all."
There was peaceful silence. Low voices of other pokemon, friends of Bolaran most likely, carried in the air. Heather pressed her body to Blaze. He held her tight.
"You, Blaze, are a paradox," Heather whispered, closing her eyes. "Living and breathing." Blaze ran his paws through her smooth fur. He brought his paws together just above Heather's tails so he could bring her closer for a deep kiss. Blaze kissed Heather again and ran his tongue against hers. His paws leisurely stroked the fur on her back, each time moving closer and closer to the region between her hind legs. Heather dragged her paw down his chest and kissed him on the cheek.
"One hell of a night to go out on..." Blaze stopped at her words.
"You really that worried about something?"
"Yeah. I'm worried about you, Blaze."
"I'm flattered, but that's unnecessary."
"You can't keep on going thinking you're gonna live forever," Heather expressed, suspending the emotions of moments before. Her eyes were pure and focused.
"You know how hard it is to get rid of me," Blaze reassured her.
"I don't know much of anything at the moment," Heather replied as she looked away. "All of us keep dodging fate, barely escaping, getting lucky. We're not invincible. Look at Kerelli."
"I have, Heather, long and hard, and she's probably the strongest creature I've ever laid eyes upon. She could pull through just about anything. I know what you're saying; I get the same feeling sometimes. But do you mean we should stop here?"
Heather avoided his gaze. "You know I don't," she mumbled.
"Then I guess we keep on trudging through this world. If you start looking at life like a timeline, then it'll disappear a whole lot faster."
"So what does that make us?" Heather ventured.
"Lovers?" Blaze suggested. She shook her head softly.
"More like killers."
"I've never killed anyone and neither have you," Blaze reprimanded her.
"I hope I never have to," Heather said rather glumly.
"And neither does Jero. Saving people doesn't start by killing people."
"But that's how it ends. That's how it's going to end tomorrow, isn't it?"
"God and Fate combined don't know what will happen tomorrow. Stop guessing at destiny."
"Don't tell me you're a believer."
"Agnosticism and divine intervention are poles apart and yet so similar."
"I know it now," Heather informed him. "We're all strangers. So is everyone fighting on the other side."
"So is everything else that's breathing."
"But not who's dead. Funny how it that works."
"Funny to cynics."
"And look who's talking."
"Hey, I'm no cynic," Blaze stated. "It's you and Jero and Terrin always looking at everything that's bad. I'm the one looking at the bright side of thing. Like, tonight I'm trying to steal some sleep so I can trudge through a forest and find some damn map, or the whole valley rolls around in gasoline and strikes a match. But hey, look at the bright side. I get to be alone with you."
"Always the sweetheart," Heather grinned. "Come here." She stood upright so she could lock lips with the sitting Typhlosion. Blaze let his eyes slip shut as he tasted her again. Heather broke away and giggled as Blaze pulled her close, effectively tripping her. She could feel the warmth coming from the low flames on his back and snuggled up close to him, her tails waving lightly behind her. Blaze ran his paws down her sides and then dragged them back a bit lower, making her shiver despite the heat.
"You know I love you," Blaze whispered in her ear, stroking her soft fur all the time.
"I love you, too," Heather replied, her eyes closed. Even with his flames so near, she felt every part of her body was cold except for that which made contact with Blaze. His gentle caress was soothing her into a wonderfully comfortable state, but desire was burning strong in both of them. Though almost entirely relaxed, each grew more excited with every touch.
Slowly and very gently, Blaze rolled over and positioned Heather with her back slightly inclined against the curve of the burned tree. He kissed around her neck and stroked her fur. Heather closed her eyes again and gave in to his touch. Her body was getting hotter and more sensitive very quickly now. Blaze gazed at her body. He saw her breathing had become a bit more rapid and that the fur around her entrance had grown wetter. She was ready for him. Starting slowly, he slid his extended member inside of her.
Heather moaned very slightly and sighed. Blaze pushed in farther and kissed her cheek. His arms wrapped around her and pulled her closer so that his length was entirely surrounded by her warm walls. Then he reversed his movement and gradually slid almost completely out of her. Heather's short breaths were all the encouragement Blaze needed. He pushed in with a bit more force than before, trying to suppress a low groan of satisfaction. Again and again Heather felt empty and again and again she felt Blaze fill her, his speed increasing.
She cried out softly as Blaze drove into her and then pulled her close to his body. He held her with her head on his shoulder, letting the fervent feelings flow through both of them. Then he laid her back down and pulled out before thrusting his member inside of her once more. The pleasure flowing through both of them was rising swiftly, and they were caught in the middle ground of letting the moment last and fulfilling the deep desire that ran between them. Blaze shuddered and felt his body tensing up. Heather's moans told him they were fast approaching the peak of their shared bliss. With a few more thrusts in and out of her hot tunnel, they both gave a small cry of joy and contentment. The wave of passion swept over both of them and they were locked in an amorous union before their bodies spiraled down into the inevitable yet wondrous descent.
The sun had climbed high up into the sky when Slyver opened his eyes. Scattered around the cave area were slowly dying embers that had blazed the night before. Dew was gradually disappearing from the grass. Wind ruffling the leaves of the trees was the only noise on the landscape. It was a beautiful morning. A beautiful morning, Slyver thought, though somebody's last. Come nightfall, blood would stain the grass and dirt, but for the moment, the land was beautiful. Slyver found it fitting.
"Thinking deep thoughts?" Slyver turned to see Jero, who had seemingly been watching for a while.
"You could say that," Slyver replied. "You think this is all worth it? I mean, when I think about it, this is all out of control and blown out of proportion." He turned for a moment, but then looked at Jero again. "It just makes me wonder."
"Love is something very strong, and so is outrage. This valley is filled with both. It is instinct for living beings to fight and kill. What matters is-"
"-a choice of cause," Slyver finished. He'd heard it before. "I understand. And I want to do something positive in this world. But that doesn't start with fighting and killing."
"If you want peace, prepare for war. The world and life itself does not make sense," Jero said. "Much conflict is created by those looking for meaning when it is not there."
"So what are we looking for?"
"We are a group of individuals who share many views, but we cannot be looking for the same thing."
"What are you looking for?" Slyver asked.
"I am looking to assist an old friend," Jero replied truthfully. "I will not allow anyone to harm the family of Bolaran. Mylair was scarcely older than a child."
"That was the work of individuals, though, not a group," Slyver stated, using Jero's own logic against him. "And it seems those individuals have been rightly punished."
"Nonetheless, there is the matter of this map of Tamyr's cave. Power lies within that cave, and murder seems rational when that sort of power is within grasp."
"Makes me wish for those back in the meadow," Slyver smiled grimly. He referred to the hideout in a forest where Jero had brought all those who were to become allies. The meadow had been home to them for years.
"I hear you," Jero smiled back. "It's just not as easy these days."
"True indeed."
Within an hour all were awake and discussing what was to happen later that day. Between Bolaran and Slyver, who had been in the valley for several months, the location of Emyen had been narrowed down to a few acres to the north.
"Who's Emyen?" Kerelli asked.
"He is a pokemon with much influence," Bolaran said. "I should have known he would fight for the way to Tamyr's cave. Emyen is an unfortunate soul who is very smart and very ruthless. He is not a murderer; he seems to have some morals about him. But he is no stranger to betrayal and death."
"Sounds like your kinda poke, Blazey," Slyver noted. The Typhlosion rolled his eyes but seemed to be out of snappy retorts, or was respecting the presence of both Jero and Bolaran.
"Anyway, Emyen is not irrational, nor is he intent on being everyone's enemy. But he must be stopped. He now has half of the map of Tamyr's cave, and may very well have the other and we simply are unaware."
"So we stroll in, take the map, destroy it or something, and walk out." Blaze made it sound so simple. "I assume there will be some fighting, maybe some poke on their team gets himself killed. I'll be sad. But my concern lies in our ranks, considering Kerelli's out of commission. We'll have to be quick."
"Your one-dimensional reasoning provides endless amusement," Jero punctuated dryly, and Heather and Slyver laughed out loud.
"Okay, okay, I'll be serious. The one thing we don't have is force. We're gonna be shorthanded."
"What?" a voice behind them mocked. "You'll be leaving without us?" Falin, Ajax, and Soren stood before them.
Unlike many of the pokemon that were desperate enough to spill blood in the valley, Ayola had actually lived there long before there was any disturbance to the peace. The only reason she did dealing with such pokemon was because she was ruthless. The Espeon did whatever she had to survive. Once any action or any being threatened her life, what happened next was necessary. Ayola did not ever let morals or conscious get in front of her need for survival. She knew compassion was a risk.
The Espeon had no desire for much violence, but it seemed to be inevitable. Sentient beings never stop feeling the urge to destroy one another. It is the third basic instinct, after survival and procreation. Ayola was searching for a position of as much power as possible while staying as safe as possible. She always chose not to pick sides, something she knew Emyen was aware of.
Ayola walked through the dense trees that grew by the river, trying to put together all the information she was currently aware of. Emyen was in possession of one half of a map. The map lead to Tamyr's cave, where the power to destroy the valley lay. The other half of the map was most likely with Kolanar, the deceitful Magmar. The murderer. If indeed a meeting between the two was planned for tonight, the valley was in great danger. Emyen was a sad story, but the truth was clear; he was a unforgiving leader that was power-crazed. It was natural instinct for him to need to be in control. And it just so happened that Emyen never let anything stand in his way.
Kolanar was going to die. There was no way around it. He knew there was danger, but he had not yet sensed his fate. Ayola knew he would not survive. Emyen knew he would not survive. The real twist lay with the obvious threat, Emyen. He was in constant danger. Ayola did not know if the newcomers in the valley were really capable to kill Emyen, if that was truly their mission.
Ayola was sure of one thing. Lives were going to be lost when night fell. She broke off of her path by the river. She needed to find Lambent.
Her brother would know what to do.
"It is said only the strongest of pokemon can enter," Jero was explaining. "I have never heard of any who have gotten there and survived."
"But if any did get in..." Blaze let it linger.
"Then the whole valley is gone," Falin finished. "Wonderful."
He, as well as Ajax and Soren, had arrived unexpectedly in the morning. They were welcomed by the others, who were in desperate need of any help they could get. They did not have any sort of plan at the moment, besides disrupting the plans of Emyen and his followers. It amazed Blaze how any pokemon could garner that sort of support, but realized it wasn't too unheard of. Sentient beings had a tendency to cling on to anything that had direction, and Emyen had direction. But his plans were destructive to all, including himself, if the stories surrounding this cave were true.
"What the hell-"
"Blaze."
"Sorry," Blaze muttered to Jero. "What can possibly have enough power to take out this entire valley? This is kind of a big place, you know. I can't think of any 'mon on the planet that can have that sort of magnitude."
"Nevertheless, this whole land is in danger, and unfortunately, in a highly clichéd manner, we are the only ones who can make a difference." Jero was calm, though obviously worried inside. "There is a high chance of casualties."
"Say it like you're alive, Jero." Blaze.
"There is a high chance some of us will not survive," Jero repeated himself. "This is something that bothers me greatly. Well, that is an understatement. I am greatly disturbed and afraid of such a result. And I do not know what to do, which is rare as I do understand, please save me from sarcasm."
"Boss, we're dying for you, ain't you proud? This is what it's all about," Blaze told him. "This is the closest damn thing to a meaning of existence, and we are damn well gonna take it!"
Jero smiled, his teeth showing a bit. "Thank you, Bolavar. Your words put me at ease."
"No problem. But you know I prefer Blaze."
[author's note] HOLY SHIT! I haven't touched any of my stories in months and months...it's been ages since I wrote anything. Geez. And so I've gone back and read the first three chapters of StrangersLoversKillers, and I've thought to myself, damn, this is pretty good! So I know nobody's actually reading this (leave me a review, damnit!), but I figured I'd continue. Now, I could end this chapter right here, but that's not what I originally planned, SO! Lucky you, here's some more slk! Courtesy of yours truly. Oh, and thanks for reading, thanks very much. But if you don't leave a review or send me an email, I'll probably go on hiatus again. So talk to me! Peace.
The moon was rising. The Pokemon of the syndicate were ready for anything, or so they felt, but they were all wise enough to know that even the best of plans had their flaws. Bolaran had expressed desire to fight along side his new allies, but had agreed reluctantly to stay behind; his mate would be devastated if something were to happen. especially after Natalia had left.
The main idea was to stop Emyen. It was known that he had half of the map to Tarmyr's cave, and could have the other as well. Furthermore, there had been much movement and bustle recently in the more dangerous parts of the valley; it seemed the attack was well timed. Or expected.
Many inhabitants were drawn out to the grassy meadow to watch the Electabuzz, Scyther, Wartortle, Golduck, Charizard, Sneasal, Ninetales, and Typhlosion depart. As they finally started to leave, Blaze caught the eye of a young Sandshrew. He heard the small one speak to a pair of Sandslashes, obviously her parents.
"Where are they going?" she asked in a small voice.
"They're going to help us," her mother answered. "They're going out to help us all."
Blaze turned away, his eyes set on the path ahead of him.
Ayola was watching the sun die behind the horizon when she turned quickly around and darted her eyes across the wilderness surrounding her.
"It is only I, my dear Espeon." Emyen was emerging from a patch of brush.
"You know very well there is cause for caution tonight," came Ayola's stiff reply.
"What with the intruders in the valley, yes, I see what you mean." He came to a halt by her side. "You know, Ayola, I do value what we have here. I suppose one could never call it a friendship, but..."
She eyed him. "Just what are you saying?"
"Only that you have never betrayed me, and I truly respect you for that, and for other things." The Smeargle seemed uncannily sincere. "I get the feeling that we may not have these sort of conversations in due time, so I wanted to let you know."
"Is this...a sweet side of you? I never thought I would actually find this in you." Her tails swayed deviously.
"Well, I may be comprised of lies, but I tell the truth," Emyen replied with a bit of a sigh. Without changing his tone, he suddenly made Ayola's skin tingle. "Enjoy your evening stroll?"
"What?"
"I'm no fool, nor are you, so just stop." This time his tone had changed considerably.
"I didn't mean to insult your intelligence, I was merely surprised," she replied truthfully. "I didn't seem to think my walking around had such consequence."
"You know, your speech has always amazed me, Ayola. Anyhow, I'm quite sure you have paid your dear brother a visit tonight. Ah, I seem to be correct," he added, seeing her reaction. "Now, I wouldn't really mind, but all fear the unknown, and I know little of Lambent."
"You know his name, which is more than to be said of many," Ayola stated. "Funny; I didn't really think anything frightened you."
"I'm not afraid of your brother as much as a possible sway in your allegiance." Emyen's tone was near deadly, but he did not seem to be making a threat.
"I am not bound to you. And he is my blood."
"Of course. Well, that is satisfactory," he said, much to her surprise.
"You're not going to try to kill me, are you?"
"Hah! And I have just said you're no fool..." Emyen turned to her again. "This night brings the end to many things, but I hope our semblance of a friendship is not marred. I believe my attempt of murdering you would qualify as such an unfortunate occurrence."
"Just leave Lambent out of this," Ayola stated coolly. "It's true I've never cared for him, but really, I Don't see any need for him...He's my brother. In ways, I do love him, and I do care for him. I know he cares about me, despite our differences."
"You never cease to surprise me. Do me a favor and do not get yourself killed tonight." At this, they both grinned.
The bushes shook again, and a Drowzee walked dutifully out, rather candidly. He seemed to be determined not to show his weariness.
"Ah, Gaulvin. You appear to be one tired Drowzee, if you'll pardon the pun."
"They are approaching," Gaulvin stated directly, ignoring Emyen's slight.
"Hmmm. To be expected." He turned away from both of the others. "I suppose nothing else can be done."
"What will you do?" asked Ayola. It took the Smeargle a moment to respond.
"If they persist, they will die. That cannot be helped, though I am not eager to be responsible for these deaths. Whatever I do, this night seems to be determined to bring about bloodshed." He sighed, and stared into the eyes of Ayola.
"Outrage brings about the most insufferable disarray," Emyen told her. "For all of us, whatever our motives, this night will be marked by outrage."
He began to walk away, pausing only to speak to the silent Espeon one last time.
"In case I do not see you again," he began, turning to her. "Goodbye. And never forget the acts of Tarmyr."
He turned back, his eyes reaching up to the dark skies.
"No one will save us now."
Well I'll be damned. I never knew when I would get done with this goddamn chapter. There you go. It's done. And whilst I hope you liked it, please give me all the criticism you can. Just keep it tasteful. Help me get a better story, you know? Well, the last part of this series is coming up. Characters are going to die. Storylines will end, but maybe, just maybe, some will begin to make sense. I hope you've enjoyed this, dear reader, and that you can appreciate what went into this. Hell, even I don't know about some things in this tale. But hey, it's here to be enjoyed.
The Valley is not done, it is merely on hiatus until slk is completed. After that, the past will be over and the characters will no longer be in the dark. Hopefully, neither will you. And then, the future will be what matters...
Thanks to LvS (livin' free), Incognito (the damn 10's) and Persium (I still owe you)
Chapter 3: Outrage
Those that have been following my stories by update (valley1-2-3-4 slk1 valley5 slk2) should be pleased with this episode. There's actually a plot now ^^. But seriously, I hope in this episode you can see how it's all coming together.
Bad language and maybe some sex (if you're lucky) so leave, kids. This story is property of exclamation man in association with �EM! enterprises, which does not own pokemon or anything else. [story time]
"I have reason to believe he killed Pannorr and Halinx."
"Really," Emyen replied. "That's crafty of him."
"It doesn't mean anything to you?" Ayola asked, twitching her tails. Her sleek Espeon body would have been very distracting to Emyen, had the Smeargle been interested.
"Halinx was superb at asking questions but only had one answer to his problems, and that was-"
"-to kill everyone," Ayola supplied.
"Yes. As for Pannorr, he took the map from the child, so if he had any idea what my plans were, it is convenient that he is dead."
"What if he didn't have any idea?"
"Then he was so dense that this Kolanar did us all a favor," Emyen stated conversationally. He had much patience but not a lot of charity. "Now, your question was if this action meant anything to me. Their lives, not so much. But the fact that this Kolanar took their lives, yes, that means something. Those lives were not his. He shouldn't have taken them."
"What will we do?" Ayola asked. Emyen seemed to always make those that spoke to him give more questions than answers. It was a perfect way to achieve his sort of power.
"If he's going to continue like this, then maybe yes, we will have to kill him," Emyen answered, despite the absence of a yes-or-no question. "But Kolanar is smart. He could be a good ally."
"Or a superior enemy."
While his team saw to each other's injuries, Jero, unscathed, spoke to Bolaran.
"It was never about something as petty as revenge."
"No," Bolaran confessed. "It never was. It was about protecting this valley." His voice was calm but rife with guilt. And grief.
"You were protecting more than that," Jero countered. His voice was never raised when he was angry, it only grew colder. "You were protecting yourself. Tell me, from what?"
"I knew there would be bloodshed, in one way or another," Bolaran stated. "But do not forget, a child was killed. Mylair, the young Cubone. He died because he knew..."
"Knew what?" It didn't sound like a question.
"He knew of Tarmyr's cave." This silenced Jero. He had known there had been a hidden motive behind Bolaran's plan, but he had not expected this.
"And them?" he asked after the brief silence.
"I expect their leader knows of it. Perhaps a few others, but there can't be many. They all know about the map, however. It is the motive behind their actions."
"What do they want? If they had the map, what would they do?"
"If they found the cave of Tarmyr, they would have power. Whoever the leader behind this is, the one that began the movement in the old compound, would be a tyrant."
"And this cannot happen."
"This cannot happen," Bolaran agreed. "What will you do?"
"Our affairs are with humans. We encourage the natural flow of things. I will ask my comrades if this is a situation in which we should interfere."
"And what will they say?"
"They are warriors. Warriors live to fight," Jero answered.
"For now, I must stay here. I cannot-"
"I understand." Jero cut him off. "Once we return, we shall help you search for your daughter."
"Thank you, Jero."
"My comrades and I need rest, and so do you. I must ask you one last question."
"Go ahead."
"You sought me out because you think me a warrior. You say you were protecting this valley. But I ask again, what were you protecting yourself from?"
"You are worthy of respect, Jero," Bolaran told him. "A lie would be so easy, but you deserve the truth. I sought you out and I lied to you. In this I was protecting my valley, my home. I lied because I was trying to keep you in the dark."
"I see now. I see your lie, both sides of it, and I see through the dark that it caused. You did not wish for me to know of the hunt for the cave until it was too late, and in that you have succeeded. You did not wish for me to know because you didn't want me involved at all."
"And I had no choice. What's left is clear."
"You do not trust me."
"No," Bolaran conceded. "I do not."
The subsequent actions proceeded like this:
Jero told them everything he had just learned, which everyone noted as the first time he had aver done so. Heather had been the first to figure it out, then followed by Jero and Blaze. She was a quick thinker; it was why she was respected by Jero. After they had discovered the dead Primeape, the three of them had rushed to find Terrin, Kerelli, and Slyver, a Golduck, who was their contact in the valley and had sided Blaze many a time. The two parties reunited in the midst of a fierce battle; the team had been ambushed by the river that was to the north of the valley. The combination of Jero and Blaze, with his Thunderpunch, had been enough to subdue the attackers, of which many were water types, but not before those fighting longer had sustained injuries. Slyver was trying to shrug off the pain from his hurt ankle and Terrin was ignoring the large slash diagonal across his chest given by a particularly vicious Croconaw. They were both much more concerned with the unconscious Kerelli. Terrin, a natural fighter, had been firm in telling Jero while completely disregarding his own bleeding torso that Kerelli had been the bravest of all them.
"I'll be damned if we lose her now," he stated.
"Terrin, don't be blaming yourself for this," Heather, who had a knack for reading emotions, told him. "You're the strongest poke I've ever met, and you fought as hard as you could."
"Doesn't mean anything," Terrin said without looking at her. "I'll be damned if she doesn't wake up."
"And why's that, Terrin?" Blaze asked. He was lying on his back with his eyes closed, and he already the answer to his own question.
"Because I'll be going back and they're gonna have to fucking kill me to stop me. They'll have to fucking kill me."
Blaze smiled with his eyes still closed and Heather was about to reprimand him or hit him, she couldn't decide, but Jero, letting Terrin's obscenities slide, spoke first.
"We need to come to a consensus about some issues that have arisen," Jero told them all. "Everyone in this valley, including us, is in very serious and imminent danger."
"What's new?" Blaze asked no one.
"There is a motive behind the violence in this valley. For years now, there has been a constant struggle for power. As the population increases, so does the anger of those that seek control."
"And why are these pokes so fucking bent on control?" Terrin demanded. His vehemence was still fresh in the air.
"Because when any living thing sees an opportunity for power-"
"-they don't stop 'til they get it," Heather finished for Jero. Terrin snorted in anger, then turned away. Blood was slowly running down his chest again, but his eyes were focused only on the body of Kerelli.
"Bolaran has been caught in this fight for some time now; he's become something of a leader for those wishing for peace," Jero went on. "He brought me, and therefore all of you, here to try to put a stop to this violence."
"What about his daughter?" Heather asked. "Was that just a lie?"
"No, she was a victim, and she was lucky to escape without any harm. It is also true that a friend of hers, a child, was killed."
"Peace favor him," Blaze put in. "What's the girl's name?"
"Natalia. She has since escaped from her parents' residence."
"What?!" Heather exclaimed. "You better be sure-"
"We are sure, Heather," Jero assured her. The use of her name seemed to calm the Ninetales some. "There are rather obvious tracks of her walking, not running, away."
"Moving right along..." Terrin prompted. His resentment did not fit his character, and it put the rest of the syndicate on edge.
"In any case, Bolaran was hiding the fact that these pokemon present a twist to the situation." Jero took a breath. "There is a map."
No one said anything, at first thinking he wasn't done, secondly taking in the weight of the statement. Jero continued before any interruption.
"There are two parts to this map. One belonged to the young Cubone that was murdered, and is now undoubtedly in possession of the 'enemy,' as you might put it."
"And the other half?" Blaze.
"I do not know, nor do I know anyone who does."
"And why is this map something to kill for?" Heather's eyes burned, an attribute from her mother passed down to her and her sister.
"It leads to a location known as Tarmyr's cave."
"Who's Tarmyr?" inquired Blaze.
"He is dead."
"Figures..."
"This cave is at the foot of a mountain near this valley. The cave is on the west side, not easily accessible from here, or anywhere. What is in the cave is disputed and will forever be disputed until someone enters and returns to tell the tale. The most popular idea, obviously shared by whoever attacked us, is that this cave holds the power to preside over this land by means of coercion."
"If there's coercion there's a threat," Heather countered. "What's the threat?"
"The threat is the destruction of all life in the vicinity of roughly fifty miles in every direction from the cave," Jero said plainly. No one said anything, or even moved, save for Slyver, who cocked his head to the side and shrugged imperturbably.
By all means, Kolanar was brilliant. He knew exactly what he was doing and what the outcome would be. Kolanar was a strategist and a fighter, and a stranger to all. Kolanar's hamartia was his need for power. He himself knew he wasn't secure unless he was in control. It was an effect of his childhood, but the only other being that knew that story was his younger brother. Kolanar had only knew of three pokemon that he considered to be smarter than himself. There was his brother Ryledar, his compatriot Lambent, and Emyen.
"You will never see me as your equal," Kolanar said simply. It was a bold statement, one that didn't necessarily help his situation but-
"That proves you're no fool," Emyen replied just as casually. "I understand you are wise enough to not underestimate me, and because of this I do not underestimate you. However, our "trust" is not the matter at hand."
"I have the other half of the map," Kolanar confirmed. He then changed his tone. "There is no reason that you wouldn't kill me after I gave it to you."
"What, you take me for a killer?"
"Yes."
"I am no murderer, Kolanar," Emyen assured him. "I may make deals with scum, but I am not among them."
"A poor excuse for your politics."
"Nevertheless, you came to me."
"Right." Kolanar exhaled and held his eyes closed for a moment. He then looked straight into the Smeargle's eyes. "I want your half of the map."
"I could say the same thing." He never missed a beat.
"But you have the upper hand," Kolanar pointed out. "Which really means I have the upper hand. It means no matter how much you want simply to dispose of me, you still need me."
"Kolanar, I am not currently interested in killing you." His tone was quite and sincere, and he addressed him by name. Emyen was either a lamentable mastermind or an unsurpassed liar. Or both.
"You would never find the map. We should be allies."
"Quite blunt, I see," Emyen noted. "But I am never interested in war, despite what you may think. Friendship has true value. Tell me, what do you expect in return?"
"That depends on who lives and who dies," Kolanar said sagely. "If neither of us succumbs to death, I would think we would avoid contact after I had gained a semblance of authority in the area."
Emyen laughed at this. "Have you ever heard the expression poker face?"
"I assume it is human."
"Oh, humans aren't all bad. As long as there's a clear line between our homes and theirs. I like the way you talk; you always choose to remain a complete stranger."
"It is how I survive."
"I suppose. You don't think we would be partners or anything?" Emyen's tone was nowhere near threatening, which Kolanar found extremely interesting.
"I believe it would be destined to collapse."
"Well, perhaps you are right. And why would one with the upper hand ask so little?" Emyen had him now. "I know you are wise in thought and speech, Kolanar, and I don't doubt what you have just said, but still I am curious. But I think I can answer my own questions. It all depends on who lives and who dies. Right?"
Kolanar's ever cold eyes were his only answer.
"Bring the map tomorrow night."
"When the moon is straight above. I will see you in the burned compound."
"Or hell."
"Get some sleep tonight, you two."
"You sound tired yourself, Jero," Blaze told him. "You've stopped using snappy puns in every sentence."
"None of us are perfect," Jero smiled an old, tired smile.
"Only Heather."
"Goodnight, Jero," Heather managed, stifling a yawn, then turning to lick Blaze across the cheek. The atmosphere had lightened significantly after the wellbeing of the syndicate had been confirmed. Half an hour earlier, to everyone's great reassurance. Kerelli had awoken and promptly vomited. The first words out of her mouth were "Not that easily," addressed to Terrin. The Scyther's anger had surprised the others. Terrin was normally a very docile creature, while maintaining enough force to rightfully intimidate any pokemon, including fire-types.
It was now on the boarder of night and morning, and the syndicate was enjoying the few moments of sleep they had had in many hours. The others had wisely left Blaze and Heather alone together. They lay side by side beneath the stars in the cover created by two fallen burned-out trees.
"I suppose this is a life-changing moment," Heather said softly. "If anyone is going to remember us, it'll be those in this valley, huh?"
"If. Yeah, I figure they'll remember us," Blaze answered her. "After the mess we leave, they're bound to." Heather laughed and nuzzled closer to him. The air was filled with the loud silence of the woods.
"If you get any more on top of me I'm going to light the grass on fire."
"And that might interrupt us," Heather smiled. "A problem for you Typhlosions."
"Uh-oh, better slow down, I'm running out of snappy retorts."
"Well, you know I like you better when you stop talking." At this he kissed her, letting the eerie yet comforting drone of life far away break into their dialogue. The only light was that cast from the flames issuing from Blaze's back. Their lips broke contact and Heather looked into Blaze's eyes.
"It feels like the end of something, doesn't it?"
"What does this night bring the end of?"
"I don't know," she admitted. "But where do we go from here? What do we do? What's life after this?"
"Keep fighting," Blaze reflected. "Keep loving."
"Keep on living, right?"
"That comes first, right after breathing."
"It'd be a waste of breath to not truly live."
"Those are the words that led you here," Blaze observed. "That's tough, you know, to set out with a goal that you know you might not achieve. But that's life, isn't it? You've made it this far; hell, so have I. And here we are. Which begs the question..."
"What are we doing," Heather murmured. Blaze looked at her again.
"If being in love and fighting for a cause isn't living then I might as well stop wasting air. We're a lonely bunch of fuckups, that's for sure, but we might as well be lonely together. Here, we're seeking out killers. We're trying to make right what has gone wrong. It's not going to bring back that kid Mylair's life, but I'll be damned if we're not gonna avenge him."
"Revenge is such an inane thing," Heather remarked.
"Alright, a poor choice of words on my part. Jero would be ashamed. But we are a group of individuals trying to make things better for all the innocent lives weaving in and out of this valley. Doesn't that have significance? Aren't we making a difference?" Blaze asked rhetorically. "There is not a whole lot we can do in this life, but I'm here to do it all."
There was peaceful silence. Low voices of other pokemon, friends of Bolaran most likely, carried in the air. Heather pressed her body to Blaze. He held her tight.
"You, Blaze, are a paradox," Heather whispered, closing her eyes. "Living and breathing." Blaze ran his paws through her smooth fur. He brought his paws together just above Heather's tails so he could bring her closer for a deep kiss. Blaze kissed Heather again and ran his tongue against hers. His paws leisurely stroked the fur on her back, each time moving closer and closer to the region between her hind legs. Heather dragged her paw down his chest and kissed him on the cheek.
"One hell of a night to go out on..." Blaze stopped at her words.
"You really that worried about something?"
"Yeah. I'm worried about you, Blaze."
"I'm flattered, but that's unnecessary."
"You can't keep on going thinking you're gonna live forever," Heather expressed, suspending the emotions of moments before. Her eyes were pure and focused.
"You know how hard it is to get rid of me," Blaze reassured her.
"I don't know much of anything at the moment," Heather replied as she looked away. "All of us keep dodging fate, barely escaping, getting lucky. We're not invincible. Look at Kerelli."
"I have, Heather, long and hard, and she's probably the strongest creature I've ever laid eyes upon. She could pull through just about anything. I know what you're saying; I get the same feeling sometimes. But do you mean we should stop here?"
Heather avoided his gaze. "You know I don't," she mumbled.
"Then I guess we keep on trudging through this world. If you start looking at life like a timeline, then it'll disappear a whole lot faster."
"So what does that make us?" Heather ventured.
"Lovers?" Blaze suggested. She shook her head softly.
"More like killers."
"I've never killed anyone and neither have you," Blaze reprimanded her.
"I hope I never have to," Heather said rather glumly.
"And neither does Jero. Saving people doesn't start by killing people."
"But that's how it ends. That's how it's going to end tomorrow, isn't it?"
"God and Fate combined don't know what will happen tomorrow. Stop guessing at destiny."
"Don't tell me you're a believer."
"Agnosticism and divine intervention are poles apart and yet so similar."
"I know it now," Heather informed him. "We're all strangers. So is everyone fighting on the other side."
"So is everything else that's breathing."
"But not who's dead. Funny how it that works."
"Funny to cynics."
"And look who's talking."
"Hey, I'm no cynic," Blaze stated. "It's you and Jero and Terrin always looking at everything that's bad. I'm the one looking at the bright side of thing. Like, tonight I'm trying to steal some sleep so I can trudge through a forest and find some damn map, or the whole valley rolls around in gasoline and strikes a match. But hey, look at the bright side. I get to be alone with you."
"Always the sweetheart," Heather grinned. "Come here." She stood upright so she could lock lips with the sitting Typhlosion. Blaze let his eyes slip shut as he tasted her again. Heather broke away and giggled as Blaze pulled her close, effectively tripping her. She could feel the warmth coming from the low flames on his back and snuggled up close to him, her tails waving lightly behind her. Blaze ran his paws down her sides and then dragged them back a bit lower, making her shiver despite the heat.
"You know I love you," Blaze whispered in her ear, stroking her soft fur all the time.
"I love you, too," Heather replied, her eyes closed. Even with his flames so near, she felt every part of her body was cold except for that which made contact with Blaze. His gentle caress was soothing her into a wonderfully comfortable state, but desire was burning strong in both of them. Though almost entirely relaxed, each grew more excited with every touch.
Slowly and very gently, Blaze rolled over and positioned Heather with her back slightly inclined against the curve of the burned tree. He kissed around her neck and stroked her fur. Heather closed her eyes again and gave in to his touch. Her body was getting hotter and more sensitive very quickly now. Blaze gazed at her body. He saw her breathing had become a bit more rapid and that the fur around her entrance had grown wetter. She was ready for him. Starting slowly, he slid his extended member inside of her.
Heather moaned very slightly and sighed. Blaze pushed in farther and kissed her cheek. His arms wrapped around her and pulled her closer so that his length was entirely surrounded by her warm walls. Then he reversed his movement and gradually slid almost completely out of her. Heather's short breaths were all the encouragement Blaze needed. He pushed in with a bit more force than before, trying to suppress a low groan of satisfaction. Again and again Heather felt empty and again and again she felt Blaze fill her, his speed increasing.
She cried out softly as Blaze drove into her and then pulled her close to his body. He held her with her head on his shoulder, letting the fervent feelings flow through both of them. Then he laid her back down and pulled out before thrusting his member inside of her once more. The pleasure flowing through both of them was rising swiftly, and they were caught in the middle ground of letting the moment last and fulfilling the deep desire that ran between them. Blaze shuddered and felt his body tensing up. Heather's moans told him they were fast approaching the peak of their shared bliss. With a few more thrusts in and out of her hot tunnel, they both gave a small cry of joy and contentment. The wave of passion swept over both of them and they were locked in an amorous union before their bodies spiraled down into the inevitable yet wondrous descent.
The sun had climbed high up into the sky when Slyver opened his eyes. Scattered around the cave area were slowly dying embers that had blazed the night before. Dew was gradually disappearing from the grass. Wind ruffling the leaves of the trees was the only noise on the landscape. It was a beautiful morning. A beautiful morning, Slyver thought, though somebody's last. Come nightfall, blood would stain the grass and dirt, but for the moment, the land was beautiful. Slyver found it fitting.
"Thinking deep thoughts?" Slyver turned to see Jero, who had seemingly been watching for a while.
"You could say that," Slyver replied. "You think this is all worth it? I mean, when I think about it, this is all out of control and blown out of proportion." He turned for a moment, but then looked at Jero again. "It just makes me wonder."
"Love is something very strong, and so is outrage. This valley is filled with both. It is instinct for living beings to fight and kill. What matters is-"
"-a choice of cause," Slyver finished. He'd heard it before. "I understand. And I want to do something positive in this world. But that doesn't start with fighting and killing."
"If you want peace, prepare for war. The world and life itself does not make sense," Jero said. "Much conflict is created by those looking for meaning when it is not there."
"So what are we looking for?"
"We are a group of individuals who share many views, but we cannot be looking for the same thing."
"What are you looking for?" Slyver asked.
"I am looking to assist an old friend," Jero replied truthfully. "I will not allow anyone to harm the family of Bolaran. Mylair was scarcely older than a child."
"That was the work of individuals, though, not a group," Slyver stated, using Jero's own logic against him. "And it seems those individuals have been rightly punished."
"Nonetheless, there is the matter of this map of Tamyr's cave. Power lies within that cave, and murder seems rational when that sort of power is within grasp."
"Makes me wish for those back in the meadow," Slyver smiled grimly. He referred to the hideout in a forest where Jero had brought all those who were to become allies. The meadow had been home to them for years.
"I hear you," Jero smiled back. "It's just not as easy these days."
"True indeed."
Within an hour all were awake and discussing what was to happen later that day. Between Bolaran and Slyver, who had been in the valley for several months, the location of Emyen had been narrowed down to a few acres to the north.
"Who's Emyen?" Kerelli asked.
"He is a pokemon with much influence," Bolaran said. "I should have known he would fight for the way to Tamyr's cave. Emyen is an unfortunate soul who is very smart and very ruthless. He is not a murderer; he seems to have some morals about him. But he is no stranger to betrayal and death."
"Sounds like your kinda poke, Blazey," Slyver noted. The Typhlosion rolled his eyes but seemed to be out of snappy retorts, or was respecting the presence of both Jero and Bolaran.
"Anyway, Emyen is not irrational, nor is he intent on being everyone's enemy. But he must be stopped. He now has half of the map of Tamyr's cave, and may very well have the other and we simply are unaware."
"So we stroll in, take the map, destroy it or something, and walk out." Blaze made it sound so simple. "I assume there will be some fighting, maybe some poke on their team gets himself killed. I'll be sad. But my concern lies in our ranks, considering Kerelli's out of commission. We'll have to be quick."
"Your one-dimensional reasoning provides endless amusement," Jero punctuated dryly, and Heather and Slyver laughed out loud.
"Okay, okay, I'll be serious. The one thing we don't have is force. We're gonna be shorthanded."
"What?" a voice behind them mocked. "You'll be leaving without us?" Falin, Ajax, and Soren stood before them.
Unlike many of the pokemon that were desperate enough to spill blood in the valley, Ayola had actually lived there long before there was any disturbance to the peace. The only reason she did dealing with such pokemon was because she was ruthless. The Espeon did whatever she had to survive. Once any action or any being threatened her life, what happened next was necessary. Ayola did not ever let morals or conscious get in front of her need for survival. She knew compassion was a risk.
The Espeon had no desire for much violence, but it seemed to be inevitable. Sentient beings never stop feeling the urge to destroy one another. It is the third basic instinct, after survival and procreation. Ayola was searching for a position of as much power as possible while staying as safe as possible. She always chose not to pick sides, something she knew Emyen was aware of.
Ayola walked through the dense trees that grew by the river, trying to put together all the information she was currently aware of. Emyen was in possession of one half of a map. The map lead to Tamyr's cave, where the power to destroy the valley lay. The other half of the map was most likely with Kolanar, the deceitful Magmar. The murderer. If indeed a meeting between the two was planned for tonight, the valley was in great danger. Emyen was a sad story, but the truth was clear; he was a unforgiving leader that was power-crazed. It was natural instinct for him to need to be in control. And it just so happened that Emyen never let anything stand in his way.
Kolanar was going to die. There was no way around it. He knew there was danger, but he had not yet sensed his fate. Ayola knew he would not survive. Emyen knew he would not survive. The real twist lay with the obvious threat, Emyen. He was in constant danger. Ayola did not know if the newcomers in the valley were really capable to kill Emyen, if that was truly their mission.
Ayola was sure of one thing. Lives were going to be lost when night fell. She broke off of her path by the river. She needed to find Lambent.
Her brother would know what to do.
"It is said only the strongest of pokemon can enter," Jero was explaining. "I have never heard of any who have gotten there and survived."
"But if any did get in..." Blaze let it linger.
"Then the whole valley is gone," Falin finished. "Wonderful."
He, as well as Ajax and Soren, had arrived unexpectedly in the morning. They were welcomed by the others, who were in desperate need of any help they could get. They did not have any sort of plan at the moment, besides disrupting the plans of Emyen and his followers. It amazed Blaze how any pokemon could garner that sort of support, but realized it wasn't too unheard of. Sentient beings had a tendency to cling on to anything that had direction, and Emyen had direction. But his plans were destructive to all, including himself, if the stories surrounding this cave were true.
"What the hell-"
"Blaze."
"Sorry," Blaze muttered to Jero. "What can possibly have enough power to take out this entire valley? This is kind of a big place, you know. I can't think of any 'mon on the planet that can have that sort of magnitude."
"Nevertheless, this whole land is in danger, and unfortunately, in a highly clichéd manner, we are the only ones who can make a difference." Jero was calm, though obviously worried inside. "There is a high chance of casualties."
"Say it like you're alive, Jero." Blaze.
"There is a high chance some of us will not survive," Jero repeated himself. "This is something that bothers me greatly. Well, that is an understatement. I am greatly disturbed and afraid of such a result. And I do not know what to do, which is rare as I do understand, please save me from sarcasm."
"Boss, we're dying for you, ain't you proud? This is what it's all about," Blaze told him. "This is the closest damn thing to a meaning of existence, and we are damn well gonna take it!"
Jero smiled, his teeth showing a bit. "Thank you, Bolavar. Your words put me at ease."
"No problem. But you know I prefer Blaze."
[author's note] HOLY SHIT! I haven't touched any of my stories in months and months...it's been ages since I wrote anything. Geez. And so I've gone back and read the first three chapters of StrangersLoversKillers, and I've thought to myself, damn, this is pretty good! So I know nobody's actually reading this (leave me a review, damnit!), but I figured I'd continue. Now, I could end this chapter right here, but that's not what I originally planned, SO! Lucky you, here's some more slk! Courtesy of yours truly. Oh, and thanks for reading, thanks very much. But if you don't leave a review or send me an email, I'll probably go on hiatus again. So talk to me! Peace.
The moon was rising. The Pokemon of the syndicate were ready for anything, or so they felt, but they were all wise enough to know that even the best of plans had their flaws. Bolaran had expressed desire to fight along side his new allies, but had agreed reluctantly to stay behind; his mate would be devastated if something were to happen. especially after Natalia had left.
The main idea was to stop Emyen. It was known that he had half of the map to Tarmyr's cave, and could have the other as well. Furthermore, there had been much movement and bustle recently in the more dangerous parts of the valley; it seemed the attack was well timed. Or expected.
Many inhabitants were drawn out to the grassy meadow to watch the Electabuzz, Scyther, Wartortle, Golduck, Charizard, Sneasal, Ninetales, and Typhlosion depart. As they finally started to leave, Blaze caught the eye of a young Sandshrew. He heard the small one speak to a pair of Sandslashes, obviously her parents.
"Where are they going?" she asked in a small voice.
"They're going to help us," her mother answered. "They're going out to help us all."
Blaze turned away, his eyes set on the path ahead of him.
Ayola was watching the sun die behind the horizon when she turned quickly around and darted her eyes across the wilderness surrounding her.
"It is only I, my dear Espeon." Emyen was emerging from a patch of brush.
"You know very well there is cause for caution tonight," came Ayola's stiff reply.
"What with the intruders in the valley, yes, I see what you mean." He came to a halt by her side. "You know, Ayola, I do value what we have here. I suppose one could never call it a friendship, but..."
She eyed him. "Just what are you saying?"
"Only that you have never betrayed me, and I truly respect you for that, and for other things." The Smeargle seemed uncannily sincere. "I get the feeling that we may not have these sort of conversations in due time, so I wanted to let you know."
"Is this...a sweet side of you? I never thought I would actually find this in you." Her tails swayed deviously.
"Well, I may be comprised of lies, but I tell the truth," Emyen replied with a bit of a sigh. Without changing his tone, he suddenly made Ayola's skin tingle. "Enjoy your evening stroll?"
"What?"
"I'm no fool, nor are you, so just stop." This time his tone had changed considerably.
"I didn't mean to insult your intelligence, I was merely surprised," she replied truthfully. "I didn't seem to think my walking around had such consequence."
"You know, your speech has always amazed me, Ayola. Anyhow, I'm quite sure you have paid your dear brother a visit tonight. Ah, I seem to be correct," he added, seeing her reaction. "Now, I wouldn't really mind, but all fear the unknown, and I know little of Lambent."
"You know his name, which is more than to be said of many," Ayola stated. "Funny; I didn't really think anything frightened you."
"I'm not afraid of your brother as much as a possible sway in your allegiance." Emyen's tone was near deadly, but he did not seem to be making a threat.
"I am not bound to you. And he is my blood."
"Of course. Well, that is satisfactory," he said, much to her surprise.
"You're not going to try to kill me, are you?"
"Hah! And I have just said you're no fool..." Emyen turned to her again. "This night brings the end to many things, but I hope our semblance of a friendship is not marred. I believe my attempt of murdering you would qualify as such an unfortunate occurrence."
"Just leave Lambent out of this," Ayola stated coolly. "It's true I've never cared for him, but really, I Don't see any need for him...He's my brother. In ways, I do love him, and I do care for him. I know he cares about me, despite our differences."
"You never cease to surprise me. Do me a favor and do not get yourself killed tonight." At this, they both grinned.
The bushes shook again, and a Drowzee walked dutifully out, rather candidly. He seemed to be determined not to show his weariness.
"Ah, Gaulvin. You appear to be one tired Drowzee, if you'll pardon the pun."
"They are approaching," Gaulvin stated directly, ignoring Emyen's slight.
"Hmmm. To be expected." He turned away from both of the others. "I suppose nothing else can be done."
"What will you do?" asked Ayola. It took the Smeargle a moment to respond.
"If they persist, they will die. That cannot be helped, though I am not eager to be responsible for these deaths. Whatever I do, this night seems to be determined to bring about bloodshed." He sighed, and stared into the eyes of Ayola.
"Outrage brings about the most insufferable disarray," Emyen told her. "For all of us, whatever our motives, this night will be marked by outrage."
He began to walk away, pausing only to speak to the silent Espeon one last time.
"In case I do not see you again," he began, turning to her. "Goodbye. And never forget the acts of Tarmyr."
He turned back, his eyes reaching up to the dark skies.
"No one will save us now."
Well I'll be damned. I never knew when I would get done with this goddamn chapter. There you go. It's done. And whilst I hope you liked it, please give me all the criticism you can. Just keep it tasteful. Help me get a better story, you know? Well, the last part of this series is coming up. Characters are going to die. Storylines will end, but maybe, just maybe, some will begin to make sense. I hope you've enjoyed this, dear reader, and that you can appreciate what went into this. Hell, even I don't know about some things in this tale. But hey, it's here to be enjoyed.
The Valley is not done, it is merely on hiatus until slk is completed. After that, the past will be over and the characters will no longer be in the dark. Hopefully, neither will you. And then, the future will be what matters...
Thanks to LvS (livin' free), Incognito (the damn 10's) and Persium (I still owe you)