Next chapter, here we come! Hope you enjoy it!

I'm sorry this took so long. I am not dead yet, though! There has been a lot going on in my life that made this chapter take so much time. I won't go into details but the last few months have involved.

-Losing and finding a new job.
-Hospital problems.
-Various personal dilemmas
-Even computer problems!

I will do my best to get these chapters done, but during busy times, it can be difficult. Still, I hope you stick around for the ride.

Before you read this, a minor note. Heatran is in this chapter. I got a few messages about the character last season, but let me clarify- Heatran is male, not transexual. He is a transvestite, as in he enjoys wearing women's clothes, but he doesn't identify as a woman (although he tends to be referred as "she" when he's playing drag queen). The character isn't supposed to be offensive or a mockery, Heatran is just a guy who is just as comfortable acting as a woman and as a man. I certainly do not wish to offend anyone with the character.

000

"Hello everyone!" said Dragonite, smiling to the camera. "Welcome to another episode of Total Pokemon Party! And I've gotta say, this whole thing is really picking up! We've got a lot of guests this time around!"

He moved back from the camera and made a wide gesture to his guests. In the nearby beanbag chairs were Gengar, Froslass, and Cacturne, all seeming to be chatting kindly with each other. Celebi had also made a return, bringing along her Legendary friends Deoyxs-S, who was actually on a laptop speaking with someone, and Heatran, who was having a fun conversation with Gothitelle about makeup and modeling. The fiery legendary was dressed to impress, donning a boa around his neck that looked like actual flames. Mamoswine seemed to be having a pleasant talk with Garchomp and Primeape, which was a little shocking, to be honest. Rhydon had just exited the bathroom to join them. While they weren't necessarily inside, one could see Arcanine and Bellsprout playing catch outside, while Lileep watched quietly. Lastly, Wooper and Marill were watching Total Pokemon World Tour reruns on a different television, chatting animatedly with one another. Dragonite nodded towards them.

"We probably won't have time to speak with everyone tonight, but we'll see what we can do," said Dragonite, laughing. He headed for Marill and Wooper first. The two were snacking on popcorn and watching the episode of the Underground from World Tour, the scene in particular where Wooper, Diglett, and Luxray were singing. Dragonite smiled.

"That WAS a good part of the season," laughed Dragonite. Wooper grinned in return.

"Hey Dragonite! How are you?"

"Doing well, yourselves?"

"Oh, I think we're pretty happy!" replied Marill. "Wooper and I are sort of doing odd jobs to make ends meet, but who knows? Maybe between his commercials and my opening comedy acts, we'll get something big!"

"Bigger than reality TV?" asked Dragonite.

"Well, who knows?" asked Wooper, echoing Marill. "Right now, I'm just chill with the idea of living with Diglett and hanging with Marill, so I'll do that until I get something else to do. Or maybe one of the random inventions I designed with Luxray will take off and be a huge hit. I don't know- I sort of have a habit of getting really lucky!"

"And uh...how goes Diglett...and Marill?" asked Dragonite, more curious about he status of the mole, who had been AWOL for a while.

"Well, Diglett's still in his bunker, but I think Trapinch is getting in the hint- man, Diglett is really TRAPPED in a PINCH!" cracked Marill, causing Wooper to laugh. "As for us, we're kind of just taking it slow. Our main thing is movies and restaurants."

"Wining and dining," added Wooper, grinning. "Wish Diglett could join, but it's hard for him to eat without hands."

Dragonite almost slipped and pointed out to Wooper that he didn't have hands either, but Marill threw him a sharp look. He quickly changed the subject.

"Comedy, Marill? How is that going?"

"Steady, but I don't know...being on reality TV sort of gave me a bug for being on camera- I actually really liked it!" explained Marill. "Maybe I could get into comedy movies?"

"We could totally look for acting roles together," agreed Wooper. "That beats my lemon gun idea by a mile."

"Lemon gun?"

"FUNNY STORY ABOUT THAT, ACTUALLY!" began Wooper, and Dragonite saw his cue to make his exit and visit some other guests. He saw that Cacturne was still speaking with the ghostly couple and decided to visit them next. Dragonite floated over and nodded to his friends.

"And how are you all doing tonight?"

"Peachy," said Gengar, grinning. "Honestly? I've got everything I need right here. My girl, my friends, and a PARTY. WOO!"

"We've been enjoying the time together- mostly just dates every other night. Of course, between my modeling and Gengar's guitar practice, free time can be hard to find."

"Still going for the band, eh?" asked Cacturne. He gave them a small smile. "Well, at the very least, it seems like a good idea. After World Tour, getting a start in the music business should be good. Surprised more of us haven't done it."

"I bet Pidgeot tried," cracked Gengar, causing Cacturne to roll his eyes.

"No Gardevoir tonight, Cacturne?" asked Dragonite.

"She and Mismagius are having a girl's night out with Scizor," explained the scarecrow. "Besides, now that Gardevoir managed to get Bronzong a date, she's moving on to a different plan- helping Mismagius."

"If you ask me, Mismagius needs to work on herself before dating anyone," said Froslass.

"I think that's the general plan," agreed Cacturne. "Not to mention, I don't think Roserade was exactly right for her. But anyways, that's where she is."

"...wait...back up...did you say Gardevoir got Bronzong a DATE?" asked Gengar.

"She's very persuasive. It hasn't happened yet, but I'm sure we'll all hear plenty of complaining from him later on."

"Wow...er...I mean, so Froslass, still modeling?" asked Dragonite, trying to change the subject.

"For now. I'm hoping to find something else soon- I still don't enjoy being ogled by cameras too much. On a show with everyone else is fine, but...it's kind of creepy alone."

"Eet eez not for everyone," commented Gothitelle, walking over with Heatran. "But I was always quite a fan of ze spotlight."

"I share the same opinion, darling," said Heatran, smiling. He was still applying some of his personal makeup to his face, giving him an air of femininity that was quite different from his deep, sultry voice. "Ever since I was created, I always loved being the center of attention. My whole life is a show, and the world is my audience."

"Yeah, that's the creepy part," muttered Froslass. Dragonite decided to switch focus to the two makeup enthusiasts.

"So, Gothitelle, Heatran, enjoying the party?" asked Dragonite.

"Oh, absolutely, it's wonderful to see my Legendary friends. Cel has been so much happier lately- same with S!" exclaimed Heatran. "Not to mention my new, lovely friend here. A fellow model who can ALSO get me a discount to Gothica Boutique? I struck gold at this party."

Gothitelle smiled. "I do not know- getting my own supply of your makeup almost seems to be ze better deal, oui?"

"Oh, nonsense, honey. I'm always willing to share with kind people who have the guts to ask me. And I'm sure it'll make your man VERY HAPPY. Even S rocks my cosmetics every now and then- I'm sure Twosie likes it far more than he lets on."

"Is that who she's talking to on the computer?" asked Dragonite. Heatran nodded.

"Preparing Vileplume's challenge has been tough on him, so he couldn't make it, but I'm sure he'll show up soon enough. I plan to attend more of these parties. Everyone is lovely, and I have yet to meet that bodybuilding stud everyone's been drooling over."

Lapras, who had wandered over, gave Heatran an incredulous look. "Wait...you mean Swampert? You like Swampert?"

"Of course! Those muscles are gorgeous, and that personality is outstanding. Good looks and good traits- the whole package." Heatran punctuated that statement with a fluttering of his long eyelashes.

"Well, looking eez allowed," admitted Gothitelle quietly. Lapras threw her a look.

"Wait, you too?" asked Dragonite, stunned.

"W-what can I say?" stuttered Gothitelle, blushing. "My heart belongs to Alakazam but...il est beau."

"Agreed," said Heatran. But he threw a sly look at Lapras. "Oh come on, don't act like you haven't checked him out."

Dragonite paused, glancing at Lapras, almost curious. "I mean, I won't be mad if you just looked but...uh...have you?"

Lapras turned around. "I'm going to see what Bellsprout is up to with Arcanine."

"There's your answer, sweetie," said Heatran, smiling kindly at Dragonite. "But on the bright side, she loves you, and she's not Swampert's type."

Dragonite shrugged. "I mean, that is true. I just never thought Swampert was that attractive to everyone. Sure he's good looking, but-"

"Ha! You should hear all of the great reviews I got from Legendaries after that episode!" said Celebi. "If we actually dated you normal Pokemon, I'm almost sure Shaymin would've made a pass at him."

"If I was single, I would've," agreed Deoxys-S.

"Good thing you're not," answered a gruff voice over the laptop.

"Hey Mewtwo!" said Dragonite, flying over. He saw Mewtwo sitting in a dark room, stretching in front of his bed. The co-host gave a lazy wave in response.

"Hey Dragonite. Party looks fun. I'll try and make one at some point."

"You're always welcome," responded the friendly dragon. Gothitelle and Heatran came over as well.

"So, wait...Legendaries are not allowed to date outside of Legendary Pokemon?" asked Gothitelle. "Zat makes ze dating pool rather petit, does eet not?"

"Well of course it does, but it'd be a lot messier if we just dated whoever. Unfair treatment and all that jazz, plus due to our lifespans, it'd be more complicated," explained Celebi.

"Technically, it isn't forbidden," added S. "Just frowned upon."

"Which IS a pity," said Heatran, sighing sadly. "I've seen many beautiful men who have sorely tempted me."

"Yeah...and Swampert WAS pretty outstanding," said Celebi, her expression a bit dreamy for a moment. "I mean, I love Mew and all, but Mew doesn't have biceps like THAT..."

"So, is the workload tough, Mewtwo?" asked Dragonite, starting to feel awkward as everyone gushed over Swampert.

"Yeah, but it's what I signed up for...still, I never regret my decision to join the show. Mew knows what he's doing- hard work pays off."

"Yeah, his show pitch was really good," admitted Celebi. "Better than almost everyone in the class."

"Wait...Mew had to pitch his show?" asked Mamoswine, overhearing. "What does that mean?"

"There was a contest among the Legendaries back in college to win our own TV show. As a result, we would have our own show, fame and fortune, and we would not have to be as diligent in our Legendary duties," said Mewtwo. "And one of the assignments we got was to pitch an idea for our series."

"I had an idea for some kind of racing show," said S. "Would've been pretty cool."

"I just wanted a drag race show," said Heatran with a sigh.

"Oh, like racing cars really fast-?" asked Marill from nearby.

"No," said Gothitelle swiftly.

"Huh...so Mew won the position...but didn't you say he cheated?" asked Lapras, who had returned and was looking at Celebi.

"It's...complicated to explain," she responded. "But I'd rather not get into that again."

"You know who had a messed up show idea?" asked S. "I'll tell you who-"

"Don't say his name," urged Celebi.

"What? Oh, no, not that berserk space dog, but Yveltal."

Celebi shuddered. "Ugh. Don't remind me of HIS idea."

Deciding that now was a good time to see some other guests, Dragonite flew over to Mamoswine and the others.

"I still say someone needs to pound Krookodile into a pulp. That wasn't a cool move," growled Rhydon. He nodded to Mamoswine. "He's helped a lot of people off that island, and he keeps sneaking buy."

"I'D TEAR HIM-!" began Primeape, before coughing. "I mean...I'd tear him apart."

"Yeah, well...I think it's more complicated than that," admitted Mamoswine. "Even if a lot of it was fake, there was some...harsh, bitter truth in his words."

"And? How does he expect to get help if he's a jerk about it?" asked Garchomp, her tone dismissive. "Yeah. It's a cruel world, but if you want to be a jerk about it."

"Big words coming from you," said Rhydon bluntly.

"At least I'm making an effort!" snapped Garchomp angrily. "And it's hard living on your own. If someone has it so bad, they're not gonna get pity from me for acting like a jerk."

"But maybe he's from a sort of place where you can't let your guard down," suggested Dragonite. Garchomp scoffed, but Primeape looked thoughtful. Mamoswine nodded to him.

"I think that's exactly it. Maybe we can't expect him to act kind and ask us for help- maybe we have to help them."

"You're unbelievable. He eliminates you and you think we should help him," said Garchomp, rolling her eyes.

"It's true that there are places you can't let your guard down," admitted Primeape. "It makes him a bit more understandable, but nowhere near tolerable. You know the shit he's done, Mamoswine."

"I know. But I'm not in the game anymore. I'll let Luxray handle justice, but if I can help someone out in need from the sidelines...I'd like to," explained Mamoswine.

"Can't argue with that," said Rhydon, nodding his head.

"I can!" growled Garchomp. "Say you help the guy. And then what? He still goes back home at the end of the day, to whatever shithole he lives in. It'll all be worthless at the end of the day. We can't get lost time back."

"No...but if someone can improve themselves on the inside...whose to say they can't continue to do so. Maybe something good will come his way," said Dragonite. Garchomp glared at him.

"Yeah, well for all this self improvement shit I've been going on, I still have jack shit to show for it," snarled Garchomp.

"Because you ruined someone else's life, not your own," said Rhydon dismissively. Garchomp flinched. Primeape whacked the Rock type.

"Rhydon!"

"Well, what do you want me to do? Lie?" retorted Rhydon. "Quit whining about Charizard, you made your bed, now lay in it!"

"Look, I get it that he can't take back the evolution, but that's no need for you to lay into her about it!" protested Mamoswine.

"I can lay into her all I want- she's moping about Charizard instead of worrying about herself! If there's more with Charizard, do something about it!" snapped Rhydon.

"THERE'S NOTHING ELSE I CAN DO!" yelled Garchomp. "THE BALL IS IN HIS COURT NOW."

"THEN STOP MOPING AND HOLD YOUR HEAD HIGH," snarled Rhydon. "YOU DID YOUR BEST, DIDN'T YOU? AT THIS POINT, YOU DID ALL YOU COULD. SO QUIT WHINING ABOUT IT."

Primeape paused mid punch, before realizing what Rhydon was trying to say. "Oh...wait...I get it."

"You're trying to tell Garchomp that since she's improved herself and tried to make it work, she should feel proud instead of mopey," said Dragonite, smiling.

"I mean...don't make it sound so weird," muttered Rhydon, annoyed. Garchomp sighed.

"I mean, there's no point in moping anymore, true. It's over. It's not like that'll change overnight."

There was a long silence, as everyone had stopped and listened to the brief shouting match between the two Ground-types, awkwardly glancing at one another, before there was a knock at the door.

"I'll get it!" said Lapras, quickly moving towards the door. She opened it to see Houndoom on the other side.

"Hey, Lapras. Can I come in?"

"Sure thing, Houndoom...oh, and Charizard as well."

Garchomp looked up, immediately on guard.

"Uh, yeah," said the dragon, walking in and looking around, before seeing Garchomp. Their eyes locked and Garchomp flinched. She gave Primeape and Mamoswine a glance and stood up.

"I guess I'll go," she muttered, turning to look for the back exit.

"Wait!"

Charizard's voice rang out across the room and Garchomp froze in her tracks. She turned around for a moment, seeing if he was talking to anyone else, before facing him and pointing a claw at herself. He didn't say anything else, but he nodded. The landshark turned and stood still, as Charizard moved through the quiet room before stopping in front of her.

"Uh...hey."

"Hey," replied Garchomp, her usual aggressive tone completely disappearing. "How have you...been?"

"I'm okay...yourself?" asked Charizard awkwardly.

"I'm okay," said Garchomp.

"...can we uh...talk? Alone? Outside maybe? Walk around or something?"

Garchomp looked completely startled, before glancing at Mamoswine. The pig nodded vigorously, a smile on his face. Garchomp stared at Charizard, before stepping to the side.

"Lead the way."

"Okay, good."

Charizard and Garchomp slowly exited through the back door, Bellsprout and Arcanine both stopping their game in astonishment as the two walked by. Dragonite and the remaining guests all watched them go, until the sound of their voices disappeared. Mamoswine was the first to break his silence.

"Oooooooh...OOOOOOH!" he squealed. His eyes were shining. "Did you see that?"

"We all saw it, don't say anything," grumbled Rhydon.

"That didn't look like an unhappy talk!" said Mamoswine, grinning. "Something tells me Charizard might want to start over."

"Shut. Up."

"Who was right?"

"I'M GOING TO GET MORE PUNCH!" roared Rhydon, stomping towards the kitchen.

Dragonite smiled as the angry rhino made his way to the refrigerator. "Well, I guess that wraps up tonight. Tune in next time to our next Total Pokemon Party!"

000

"Alright, meeting time!" said Kabutops, grinning as he leaned back. "What's the plan, boss?"

"Plan?" muttered Banette. He scratched the back of his head, while glancing at Kabutops. He wasn't much of a planner. How the hell had Cacturne and Gardevoir done it so easily? Then again, between Cacturne getting upset over the slightest miscalculation and Gardevoir's consistent self doubt, he guessed it wasn't exactly a simple job. Banette shrugged his shoulders and looked at his alliance.

"Krookodile's immune for one more night. So I still say we focus on B."

"Don't remind me. I want that crocodile gone," growled Kabutops. "Still, B fucked with my Tyrunt. So, what do we have on B?"

"As of right now? Not much," admitted Banette. "Hopefully Weavile will pass us some information from Alakazam. We can compare notes later and decide the best course of action."

"So what do WE have?"

"We have some Pokemon who it ISN'T," admitted Banette. "And we have how B operates. He or she gains power from being anonymous, so we can't target them. That's why everyone's so scared- if B threatens you, you can't threaten them back. Not to mention, what happens if you do threaten them? B might be a lesser threat like Noivern or Toxicroak, but what if it's Bisharp or Honchkrow? Is that a person you want to cross?"

Kabutops paused, thinking of his fight with Bisharp. "Well..."

"Be serious," said Banette, his tone dry.

"Fair, I see your point," admitted Kabutops.

"So, now we've got Pokemon who is anonymous and can belt out any strategy, with no harm to themselves, and if they fail, well...they can always try again. Now, let's review the targets they chose. Like Bronzong said, we shouldn't focus on who, we should focus on what they do. First time they struck, they chose Mismagius. That puts Weavile and I in an awkward place. But that was the last challenge before the merge, so they might've just wanted a safety net. You were on the Vileplumes- do you know of anyone who would've wanted her gone?"

"I suspected you or Bisharp," confessed Kabutops. "But after being in the alliance, I don't think it's you."

"Relieving. Bishap has some credit- he doesn't want weak links in his team. But it was before the merge- why would they want Mismagius gone?"

"To save him and Toxicroak, I guess."

"That's fair," agreed Banette. "Next target was Gothitelle or Crobat, Gothitelle goes home. Next time, B takes your Tyrunt and trashes it- might be a message to you and me, but then Bronzong goes home."

"But he didn't pull any shit during the amusement park challenge!" pointed out Kabutops. Banette nodded.

"I thought about that, but...maybe he did. Maybe she set up Gengar for a fall that time. Remember how Gengar lost his coin? Maybe B was worried about his lucky streak."

"Then why'd they even try to get Gengar?" asked Kabutops. "And how did he or she know about the coin? Gengar really only told us..."

"She or he definitely knows about Team Storm- they've already thrown attacks at you and Gengar. And arguably me and Weavile too, with the whole Mismagius thing. But maybe B snuck up on Gengar on purpose."

Kabutops stroked his chin. "That places Toxicroak in a suspicious spot. Isn't he the one who scared Gengar?"

"Yeah, but he was also knocked out and had no tickets on him, apparently," said Banette. "If he was gonna trick Gengar, why get rid of his tickets?"

"To cover the crime and say they were stolen," offered Kabutops.

"We could disprove that by asking everyone around camp. Maybe he was set up too. We know Krookodile was snatching tickets."

"But is Krookodile Mr. B or was he just messing with Gengar and Toxicroak?" asked Kabutops. "Mister B didn't leave a note during that challenge."

"Which is what threw me off...it's not B's style. That was definitely Krookodile," said Banette, scratching his chin. "And knowing that is good. We definitely have to determine who is B and who is Krookodile here."

"And they might be the same."

"The only reason I think B might've targeted Gengar is because of what happened- Mamoswine takes the fall, Gengar walks free. And then he targeted Poison-types- Toxicroak, Gengar, and Crobat."

"That's trickier to work out...you could argue anyone would have a reason to target at least one of those," said Kabutops.

"Not everyone, though," admitted Banette. "So, now we have to go over who IS and ISN'T B, and unfortunately, I can only rule out one person still on the island. And that's you."

"Me?" asked Kabutops.

"How the heck do you hold a pencil?" asked Banette.

"I don't, I dip my scythe in ink and I write on a hard surface like stone and- oh, now I get it," said Kabutops, nodding in understanding. "I can't write notes on paper without ripping it and I can't hold a pencil to write the notes."

"Exactly. And it can't be Medicham either. She wasn't on the island for the first note, and all the handwriting has matched."

"You haven't eliminated yourself as a suspect," pointed out Kabutops. "Or Weavile."

"I mean, I suppose we could be getting mind controlled in our sleep or something, but I'm pretty sure it's not me," said Banette. "And I trust Weavile. But we still can't prove it isn't us if we're asked."

"I see your point. Anyone else?"

"That's all I've got so far," admitted Banette. "But maybe Weavile will get us some more information on it. I think she's talking to Alakazam right now anyway..."

000

"These notes you've given me have been invaluable," said Alakazam, smiling at Weavile. "You're quite the detective yourself, Weavile."

"I don't enjoy it the way you do," pointed out Weavile. "And you're the brain here."

"True, I do enjoy the thrill of the hunt more than others. But there's always something fun about having your wits tested. Pity our friend Hypno couldn't measure up this time, but Honchkrow has certainly been a fun opponent. Unfortunately, our game won't last much longer."

"You think?" asked Weavile, curious despite her exasperation with their fight.

"Oh yes. One of us will go home sooner or later. Whether or not its me, well...that's for the game to decide."

"So, how about Mister B? Any ideas on how to send THEM home sooner rather than later?"

"Well, you had the right idea- most people are focusing on what Mister B does or who he is rather than how he acts," explained Alakazam. "Now that Gothitelle and Bronzong are gone and Honchkrow has lost most of her firepower, I can take the time to think about this."

"Anything you can tell me about them? Or anyone you can rule out."

"Hmmm...based on their threat level alone, they are most likely not the most aggressive or powerhouse of players. For this reason, I doubt it's Honchkrow- she gains more power by asserting herself as the threat, as opposed to an anonymous force. For this reason, I suppose you could rule out myself. Medicham, clearly because she came back after the first note, should also be removed from suspicion- though I have to say I doubt she'd engage in such activity."

"...is it you?" asked Weavile, not knowing exactly what to think if he answered.

"Is it you?" retorted Alakazam, cocking a brow. "Weavile, I can tell you one thing and the opposite could be true. So, sure it isn't me. But it's your choice to believe it or not. And knowing our history, we know not to trust everything everyone tells us, right?"

A certain other Psychic type's shiny visage entered her mind, and Weavile shuddered.

"But while I have no evidence, I would say Honchkrow is a low chance," admitted Alakazam. "She's not the type to risk Crobat twice. And since Mr. B hasn't targeted me directly, there seems to be nothing tying her to the notes."

He scoffed. "Mister B...as if Mister E isn't a far better name. I'm not sure exactly what the B symbolizes- I think that might have been a spur of the moment decision to throw suspicion at Banette, Bisharp, and Bronzong...but I have no idea why."

"You didn't rule out Crobat, even though he's been targeted twice, but you ruled out Honchkrow," asked Weavile. "Can I ask why?"

"I've been doing battle with the both of them, but Crobat's a bit harder to predict than Honchkrow. Oh sure, he has more conventional methods, but his thought process is different. And besides...I'm sure that Honchkrow wouldn't gamble with Crobat's spot in the game, but I'm not so sure he wouldn't."

"Fair. What about new players...Krookodile? Noivern? Toxicroak? Bisharp maybe?"

"I can't really say...I personally would say Noivern and Toxicroak probably lack the heart and the brains for it. Krookodile seems likely, but I feel like he'd be doing too much- he'd slip up somewhere eventually. Bisharp is the real mystery- a smart player for sure, but he seems a bit weak when it comes to his social game- of course, that being said, an anonymous threat would suit him well. I can't say much about the newcomers, I don't know them as well. And they're far different from me- Hypno's mind works the way mine does. Makes it easier to take him down."

Alakazam clapped his hands. "Still, I have a lot of information to start with. We have several players who are possible and with Honchkrow crippled, I might have time to work this out a little bit. Thank you for the mystery. I was growing bored."

"Honchkrow crippled? What makes you say that?"

"A fight occurred between her and Crobat, and without his analytical mind, she's half the threat she used to be."

Weavile frowned a little at that- yeah, Honchkrow not being as scary was nice, but it wasn't like she wanted the two to break up. "Oh."

"Tell you what. If I come up with anything else, I'll let you know," offered Alakazam. "But I'll probably need more time to think."

"Got it," said Weavile, grinning.

000

"Gotta say, Alakazam's a pretty good friend to have," said Weavile, chuckling. "To think we used to hate each other."

000

"A new puzzle. Things are getting good," said Alakazam, rubbing his hands together.

000

Toxicroak's eyes flickered back and forth in front of him. Jeez, Bisharp was in one of his moods.

The blade knight was pacing back and forth, occasionally stabbing a tree with his hand before resuming his path. Toxicroak had been there for about twenty minutes now and nothing had changed. The frog didn't exactly know where to go from here. On one hand, when he had shown up and said hello, Bisharp had appeared not to have heard him, but he almost didn't want to break the spell of Bisharp marching back and forth like a soldier...it was kind of funny, if he hadn't been so obviously angry about something.

Toxicroak smiled to himself. Hypno. Trevenant. And in the end, he was the one that Bisharp had kept around. It was flattering in a sense. Not the sneaky hypnotist or the brutish tree, but the frog. At the very least, the leader of Team Night liked him the best. Which was comforting- being someone that Bisharp didn't like was not a good way to play the game. Toxicroak wasn't much of a strategist, but even he knew who and who not to piss off.

Toxicroak wasn't a great strategist or anything. His original game plan from the start had been to wing it. He had never been in a competition like this before, and at times, it probably showed. Oh, he wasn't stupid or anything, but he could admit that his inexperience tended to put him in a low ranking position most challenges. And then all of a sudden, Bisharp had come along, asking for a meeting and providing a solid plan to make it to the end. And even if Bisharp was a newcomer himself, that strategy was music to Toxicroak's ears. And in return, he just wanted loyalty and teammates to work with him. What was so bad about that?

He was happy to be a part of the team, but even happier not to make the decisions. Bisharp enjoyed taking charge, but that came with a lot of attention, both positive and negative. Between striking deals with shady characters and being the prime target of Medicham's anger couldn't have been easy. He didn't envy his friend then. But Bisharp had pulled through and sent her on her way...at least until the merge.

Toxicroak frowned for a moment. Yeah. Medicham was definitely a huge factor in Bisharp's stress. It wasn't good for him. But maybe there was a way he could help.

Still, this meeting wasn't going to go anywhere if he didn't grab Bisharp's attention so...

"Hey, uh...Bisharp," he said, with a nervous laugh. "You uh...you there, buddy?"

Bisharp jumped, almost startled, before he glanced at Toxicroak. "My mistake, I actually forgot you were here."

"It happens," offered Toxicroak kindly. "So. Meeting and all that. What's the plan, boss?"

"We're finally going to act," said Bisharp. "I've grown weary of merely managing the voting process- it's time we establish ourselves."

"I thought our plan was to lay low!" said Toxicroak. "Isn't that why we never tried too hard in challenges? We tried just enough to convince people we were part of the team, but not enough to actually determine whether we win or lose."

"And we played our roles very well," agreed Bisharp. "But now it's time to establish that we aren't weak. The truth in this game, Toxicroak, is that if you're too strong, you're a threat, but if you're too weak, you're cannon fodder. Oh yes, sometimes a smart player will try to keep you around so they can beat you in the finale, but...in the end, if they decide to throw someone under the bus, it'll be you. A happy medium is the key."

"I kind of get what you're saying," admitted Toxicroak. In truth, he wasn't sure if that really WAS the best strategy. Laying low seemed to have worked well for them- Trevenant had been easily removed despite his threat level. But Bisharp was the boss, right? "So, now we actually try to win? Er...at least more than we were?"

"Indeed. And victory was so close last time, I could TASTE it," growled Bisharp, clenching a fist. "Kabutops managed to pull off an upset at the final hour, but I won't let that happen again."

"Next challenge, dude- you got close," said Toxicroak sympathetically. Bisharp turned to him and gave him a nod of thanks.

"I appreciate the compliment, but unfortunately, without a victory, it's meaningless."

"Not really," said Toxicroak, laughing nervously. "I mean not to disagree but...since you got the double votes...you were able to deal with Honchkrow, which meant I didn't go home after Mister B targeted me."

Bisharp looked thoughtful. "True enough- I suppose I secured your safety. And thankfully, Mister B is proving to be far more useful to me than not. With him or her in the picture, I can operate a lot easier. No one is really focusing on me...other than Medicham."

"Well, maybe he'll threaten her soon?" suggested Toxicroak. Bisharp smirked.

"That WOULD be good for me."

Though his tone sounded pleased, there was a certain level of bitterness in his voice. Toxicroak gave him a curious look. True, Bisharp wasn't the type to talk about his feelings, but...

"Do you, uh...are you okay, dude?"

"Fine," muttered Bisharp. "Why do you ask?"

"Ever since Medicham came back you've uh...kinda been off. Did something happen at that dinner or whatever?"

"Other than the truce? Nothing of great importance," responded Bisharp, but Toxicroak knew he was lying. "Of course, ever since she stabbed me in the back during the amusement park challenge, it's...bothered me. She played me."

"Does it bother you that she did that to you?"

"What? No, what bothers me is this new code she's operating under. She's willing to get her hands dirty now," growled Bisharp. "We'll have to watch out for her. I don't trust a single bone in her body."

There was a loud crackling as Mew's intercom came to life.

"Campers! It's time for your next challenge! Meet me at the dock!"

Bisharp glanced into the sky. "I thought we'd be due for another game soon. Very well, Toxicroak. Shall we?"

Toxicroak grinned. "You lead the way."

The two stood up and continued to walk in silence for a moment. Bisharp stopped, and then gave Toxicroak a nod.

"Thank you for checking up on me. I appreciate it."

"Uh, no problem, dude. We're in this together, right?"

"Indeed."

000

"I mean, I'm not a bad dude- sure we've worked with Trevenant and Hypno, but I think Bisharp and I are a bit nicer than we might be given credit for," said Toxicroak. He chuckled. "He's just a bit prickly."

000

Everyone slowly gathered down by the docks to see what Mew had in store for them this time. Sure enough, the pink Psychic was waiting with a grin on his face, as excited as could be. He clapped his hands as everyone gathered up.

"So, enjoy yourselves for the past few days? I hope so, because you guys get another challenge!"

Everyone glanced at one another. Sure the past few days had been relaxing, but it was clear the entire island was riddled with tension. Medicham appeared to look conflicted, and every time she would look at Bisharp, she sighed- Bisharp responded by clenching a fist each time her eyes landed on him, Toxicroak giving him concerned looks. Several angry glares were being thrown at Krookodile, although he didn't seem too bothered- he almost appeared used to this treatment by now. Honchkrow and Crobat were still pointedly avoiding each other, although Honchkrow also appeared to be giving Alakazam a nasty look in her spare time. And all in all, they were all aware of the fact that one person among them was the elusive Mister B.

"Enjoy is a pretty interesting word of choice," admitted Banette.

"Well, you'll enjoy this! Or at least I will!" said Mew with a laugh. "The challenge is right off the coast of the island, so we're gonna go over there to have a good time."

"And where is it?" asked Krookodile.

Mew jerked a thumb over his shoulder. Everyone turned and stared.

"Oh...whoa," said Banette, gaping.

There, across the water, was an enormous upside down pyramid floating in the sky. They weren't sure how they hadn't noticed it before, as it really was quite a sight. Each side was covered in lights of a different color- one was green, one was red, and one was blue. The bottom (or top, seeing as it was upside down) was yellow in color. Lights were flashing along each side of the pyramid in the color of the side, lighting up the waves underneath the massive construct. Mew grinned.

"What do you think? We have a lot of telekinetic work put into that thing, but it's still staying in the air."

"Even I'll admit that it looks pretty cool," said Weavile. "But what the hell are we doing with that?"

"Well, I'll let our final host explain that," said Mew. "But we've got a ride over there. Ahem! MEWTWO! BRING US...THE BOAT!"

Mewtwo groaned from behind one of the coastal rocks and drove a decent sized boat out. He gave everyone a tired glare.

"All aboard."

Almost everyone was still awestruck by the massive pyramid, but they slowly piled on board. It was similar to Lileep and Lopunny's giant arenas, but this seemed...more majestic somehow. Everyone gathered together as Mewtwo sailed them towards the island. The boat trip was rather quiet. Crobat looked out at the water before looking at Honchkrow. He carefully made his way over to her.

"Look, Honchkrow, I...um..."

"Spit it out," rasped Honchkrow, not looking at him. She lit up a cigar and stared at the pyramid.

"Can we talk? About last time. Look, I may not have liked it, but I appreciated what you were trying to do-"

"What I DID do. Not tried," growled Honchkrow. "Look. Ya made yer point. Ya don't need me. I don't need you. Go run around wit yer friends."

Crobat felt less and less like himself and more like the pain magnet he had been so long ago. "I never said that."

"You didn't have to."

"Can you at least put out the cigar? You've been smoking more and more of them lately and it isn't good for you."

"Quit worrying about me!" snapped Honchkrow. "I'm fine! Buzz off!"

Crobat opened his mouth to argue, but he noticed Noivern and Weavile glance in their direction. He sighed and moved over to a different side of the boat. Honchkrow felt a bit guilty, but he made his feelings clear not long ago. She was just giving him what he wanted. A time to run around with his friends he loved so much.

Crobat sat next to Gliscor and sighed. Gliscor gave him a sympathetic pat on the back.

"Rough, buddy. But I think it'll turn out okay."

"Yeah...maybe," grunted Crobat unhappily.

000

"Yeah, things are kind of rough with Honchkrow right now," said Crobat, his tone troubled. "I feel like I'm being torn in two- for some reason I can have her, or have a life with friends, but not both. I just want to be able to hang out with people and Honchkrow and have her feel comfortable but...ugh. That seems like such an insane fantasy..."

000

The pyramid was just as awe inspiring up close as it was from afar. As Mewtwo parked the boat, Mew showed them to a long ladder attached to one of the sides, letting the flightless members climb their way up while others just flew. Kabutops noticed a hole in the pyramid while he was climbing.

"Hey! I see a hole! Did you miss a block?"

"Nope! Your host will explain when the time comes!" said Mew cheerfully.

Once they reached the golden top of the pyramid, they were atop a large platform. It was even bigger now that they were actually standing on it. And there, standing in the center, was a familiar figure. A small blue body that was dwarfed by a massive red flower atop his head.

"Hey guys! Welcome to the Starter Pyramid!" said Vileplume cheerfully.

000

"So that is the famous Vileplume," said Medicham thoughtfully. "He does not seem as intimidating as I would expect a champion to be..."

000

"Don't let his look fool you," warned Kabutops. "He may have just been a silly Oddish starting out in Island, but he's no fool. The guy had what it took to be champion, and I bet he's only gotten tougher. You know what happens when Vileplume shows up- shit's about to get real."

000

"He doesn't look like much. Hard to believe he won it all," said Bisharp.

000

"Vileplume...the final challenge hosted by the first champion," said Weavile. "Starter Pyramid? Wonder what he means by that...though by the colors of the pyramid, I bet I could guess."

000

"So, you're probably all wondering what the challenge is at this point. Well, to put it simply, it's a race to the center of the pyramid," explained Vileplume.

"But I assume it isn't that easy," commented Alakazam.

"I wouldn't say it's too horrifyingly difficult, but it's not that simple," admitted Vileplume. "There are actually four different parts to this pyramid, with the first three being based on the classic starter types. In each of these sections, there's a large maze. So, you have three outer mages and they're based on the elements of the starters...you have a Grass Maze, Fire Maze, and Water Maze. And the cool part is you get to pick which part of the maze you start in. They all have different tricks and obstacles within, so your choice might matter!"

"And what is the fourth part?" asked Medicham curiously.

Vileplume smiled. "The fourth part is hidden in the center of the maze- each of the three outer mazes has a door leading into it. This center part is the Thunderdome- it's an electric filled zone with plenty of tricks and traps in store. At the center of the Thunderdome is a golden Pokeblock- whoever claims it is the winner of the challenge. Any questions so far?"

"It feels as if it doesn't matter where you start- the goal is simply getting into the Thunderdome," said Bisharp, eyes narrowing. "That can't be it."

"No, there is more," admitted Vileplume. "While the Thunderdome is the goal, you can't just walk right in. The only way to get in is to present three different totems to either Mew, Mewtwo, or me- we're all stationed at the three entrances to the dome. The three totems are a grass totem, a fire totem, and-"

"A water totem- it doesn't matter WHERE we start, we have to go through all three mazes anyway!" finished Weavile.

"That's right. While each elemental maze has an entrance to the Thunderdome, they also have tunnels that lead to each other- one can start in the Fire Maze and take a path to the Grass and Water Mazes."

"And we need a totem from each," said Kabutops.

"Yup! You have to go through all three mazes and gather up a totem from each one. Thankfully they're all in the same place, but unfortunately there isn't enough for everyone. There are only 10 of each totem, so some people might have to steal them from each other to get a shot at the Thunderdome. So, you all have to gather three totems from each outer maze, cash them in to get into the inner maze, and then get to the center of that! Grab the totem at the center, and you win! Any questions so far?"

"Moves allowed?" asked Banette.

"Yes. Flying and telekinesis is fair game, too," answered Vileplume.

"How is flying fair?" demanded Bisharp. "They can get a bird's eye view of the maze."

Vileplume smiled. "It won't matter. Trust me. Anything else?"

"You mentioned obstacles, right? Like, what kind of stuff is that?" asked Weavile, sounding a bit nervous.

"It depends on the maze, really. Creeping vines and plants in grass, walls of fire and hot coals, flooded caverns, you name it! No worries- while it is possible to get injured in the maze, your lives will never be in danger at any point. And in addition to the obstacles, some of your old friends will be patrolling the maze."

"Old friends? Like other contestants?" asked Alakazam, eyes narrowed.

"Yep! Not too many, don't worry. But they WILL try and steal your totems back, so look out!" said Vileplume cheerfully. "Keep an eye out for them! Even if they're trying to sabotage you, you can still say hello!"

"Do you have any other questions? I've been looking forward to this one for weeks!" whined Mew.

"Why this one in particular?" asked Crobat, sounding curious.

"This is the LAST challenge hosted by a former contestant!" said Mew, grinning. "After this? I'M BACK IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT."

"Put on your seatbelts now, the idiot is gonna be back behind the wheel soon," said Banette, rolling his eyes. Mew seethed quietly, but did not rise to the bait.

"ANY OTHER QUESTIONS?" he snapped.

"Why are you so angry?" asked Banette, grinning.

"From someone OTHER then Banette?"

Everyone glanced at one another. Other than picking a starting point, there didn't seem to be much else to the challenge that hadn't been explained to them. Vileplume smiled.

"Okay! Then its time for you to pick your starting gates!"

As everyone muttered to each other, trying to figure out which gate to start at, Honchkrow pulled Krookodile aside.

"Now's da time for you to hold yer end of da bargain," hissed the bird. "Help me with Alakazam or I swear I'll get you on da ride home."

Krookodile scoffed. "I still have a night of immunity, but since you're so desperate, fine. Leave it to me."

000

"Hrmmm...Fire might have difficult obstacles, Grass might be more concealed...I'll start with Water to get a quick lead," mused Alakazam aloud.

000

"I'd rather just get Fire over with," muttered Banette. "Bad memories and all that shit..."

000

"I'll choose Fire first- that stage is by far my weakest point. Conquer that and I'll only grow stronger," said Bisharp. "And I'll take Toxicroak with me as well."

000

Crobat looked thoughtful. "I'll try and pull off Fire first, I think."

000

Gliscor grinned. "I'll start Grass- I bet I can fly over a lot of the Fire and Water obstacles, but navigating the jungle might be harder."

000

"I'm startin' Grass- it'll be easy enough and den I'll grab a head start," said Honchkrow.

000

"Hack my way through the Grass, squirt out the Fire, and jet through the Water- in that order!" said Kabutops. "Thunderdome, here I come!"

000

"I'll start Water and work my way around- of course, it doesn't matter where I start as long as I can steal totems from suckers," said Krookodile, rolling his eyes.

000

"I SHALL START IN A RANDOM LOCATION!" shouted Luxray, scribbling complicated runes on the wall. "PROBABLY WATER."

000

Medicham stroked her chin. "I will start in the Grass maze, I think. Unfortunately, I am going to stick out from the green landscape. It will be hard to avoid detection."

000

Noivern was tapping a beat on the wall. "I guess I'll try and get Water and Grass done? They sound easier than Fire, yo."

000

"Bisharp said for us to hit up Fire first...I'll probably go Water after," said Toxicroak.

000

"Not fire...anything but fire," groaned Weavile, shivering. "Guess I'll start with Water."

000

As everyone made their choice, Vileplume led each group over to an elevator on each side of the pyramid. "Going down this elevator will lead you all to those openings in the sides of the pyramid. And once you're in, good luck! It should be a fun challenge!"

Banette and Crobat glanced at each other as they stepped on the Fire elevator, while Gliscor peered down at the ocean underneath the pyramid. Alakazam had a confident smile on his face, while Luxray was vibrating, ready to go.

"Ready? On your mark, get set, go!" said Vileplume, pressing a switch in his hand. All of the elevators slowly descended to their respective entrances before stopping. The hallways before each contestant were dark and foreboding. It wasn't fear that the contestants were feeling, though. It was anticipation. They had no idea what was ahead, but they were ready.

"Well, what are we waiting for?" asked Kabutops. "Let's get in there!"

He dashed inside. Medicham and Gliscor looked at one another and followed him in, and one by one, the rest of the contestants entered the magnificent maze.

000

"Cacturne, Lileep, and now Vileplume...these guys make pretty amazing things," said Crobat. "I still can't believe how much stuff was in there."

000

"Holy shit," said Kabutops, eyes wide. Medicham had screeched to a halt beside him, and even Honchkrow seemed surprised.

"Well, damn..."

The outside of the maze had certainly been outstanding, but the inside put it to utter shame. It was almost as if they were standing in one of the forests outside back on the island. The Grass maze was full of foliage and wildlife, from beautiful flowers littering the floor to gigantic trees that extended so far that they couldn't see the top. There were bushes, tangles of vines, and some dangerous looking plants. Notably, some of the vines and branches twisted together to form unmistakable walls of the mazes. Kabutops took a step forward. The grass and soil under his foot felt so real that it was hard to believe they were inside at all. He glanced at the others.

"Okay then...let's go find those totems."

He sharpened his scythes and started hacking his way through the undergrowth. Honchkrow grinned.

"Time to fly," she crowed, soaring into the air. Gliscor grinned and followed suit, while Medicham dashed in a different direction. The games were on!

000

"Hot in here or just me?" quipped Banette, looking around the area.

Bisharp didn't respond to the stupid joke, but he was secretly marveling at just how wondrous the Fire Maze was. The ground was rocky and warm, and was a dull red in color. Giant red walls of stone filled the area- it truly was a labyrinth, with many twists and turns. Small fires were lit on the ground and what appeared to be puddles of lava could be seen every few feet. The entire maze radiated heat- a sensation that wasn't burning, but not exactly comfortable. Crobat smiled grimly. The competition, it seemed, was heating up.

Bisharp jerked his head to Toxicroak. "Come on. Let's go."

"Right behind ya!"

Banette glanced around the maze, a bit impressed. "Well...it isn't that bad here actually. Less like a burning building and more like a...hot castle, I suppose?"

"Hot castle?" said Crobat with a snort. He took to the skies. "You need better one liners."

Banette rolled his eyes, but started to move as well.

000

"Wet," commented Weavile.

The Water Maze had a rather peaceful air to it. There were standing on a blue tiled floor that was covered with about half a foot of water. In a different twist from Lileep's challenge, the Water Maze almost looked like an underwater temple. Large blue walls surrounded the campers who had chosen this path, and there were fountains and waterfalls of flowing water everywhere- there had to be a drain somewhere in the temple, as with this much falling water, it was a wonder that it hadn't been filled yet. Even though there were normal paths to take, Weavile could see pools that contained tunnels- apparently, there were underwater tunnels that formed another maze in addition to the one on the surface.

"IT APPEARS TO BE A WONDERFUL PLACE! PRIME REAL ESTATE!" commented Luxray. She gave Noivern a high five.

"Okay, girl power time!" shouted Noviern. "We're gonna get those totems and WIN!"

Luxray nodded while laughing maniacally and the two rushed away. Weavile just stared after them.

"How can they have so much energy?"

"It's in their nature," said Alakazam with a laugh. "See you in the Thunderdome."

He floated off and Weavile sighed. It was time for her to get going too.

000

"Damn this maze is a crazy bastard," Kabutops growled. "How the hell are you supposed to find anything here? It's all buried under these damn bushes and grass!"

As it turned out, the Grass maze was far more complicated than anyone had originally anticipated- while the obstacles weren't as deadly as fire, the layout was far more confusing. The maze wasn't your average walled hedge maze- there were trees with ladders, paths through the undergrowth, brambles that blocked their vision. The trees seemed endless, and as Kabutops hacked and slashed his way through the maze, he felt as if he had no idea where to find the totem.

"Like, we didn't even get a hint!" snapped Kabutops, annoyed. He curse quietly before taking a deep breath. He paused and glanced at a nearby tree.

"Climbing can't hurt," he muttered. He leaped forward and began to use his scythes to pick his way up the tree, digging his blades in the wood as he ascended. As he broke into the canopy, he let out a low whistle. The view was nice, and he could see the ground far below. But the tangle of flowers and plants and vines made it hard to see much up here. Kabuops had to hand it to Vileplume. The fliers didn't have an advantage this time.

"Still, advantage or not, there isn't much here," he said. "I should-"

CRACK!

Kabutops was immediately silent, pressing his brown body against the bark and peering down. There, far below him, was a rustling sound. Out of the bushes, slowly moving, was Bellsprout. His small, beady eyes glanced back and forth, before moving along onto a different path. Kabutops released his held breath.

"That was too close."

000

"I wasn't scared!" said Kabutops defensively. "The guy is a Grass type and an unstable shit to boot! If he wanted to, he could put me in the HOSPITAL!"

000

Krookodile peered around, his beady black eyes scanning the water maze. So far, this temple was really throwing him off. The obstacles in the Water temple weren't bad- he could deal with waterfalls and the occasional Pokemon roaming around (he caught Marill stumbling around a few rooms back). The issue was the it was hard to tell where he was. He had gone through several rooms, but they all looked the same to him. He growled in his throat and yanked open another door.

"Whoa," he said.

The room had opened up to what appeared to be a small beach. Beautiful, clear water stretched all across the way- Krookodile couldn't even tell where it ended. Soft sand squeezed between his toes, and the smell of salt filled the air. Krookodile gaped for a moment, before moving forward.

"What the hell was that flower on? Well...maybe there's a shortcut here."

He dove into the sand and dug around, plowing through at incredible speed, but nothing was hidden in the shoreline. He burst from the sand and shook himself off.

"There's gotta be something around here," he growled. He glanced out at sea, squinting. Was that...an island? Hesitantly, Krookodile stepped forward, wading into the water, until he felt something cool and hard under his feet. He looked down into the water and saw a closed door. Krookodile grinned- the door was painted the same color as the sand. No one would have noticed that unless they felt it. He dove under and looked at it. Next to the door was a small button. The reptile pushed it and the door opened up, suctioning water and sending him plummeting through.

Krookodile landed hard on his rear, grunting, before he looked around. "OH YOU'VE GOTTA BE KIDDING ME!"

Surrounding him were beautiful temple walls. Krookodile clenched a fist. Back where he started...

"AHOY!" yowled a voice, and the crocodile turned to see Luxray and Noivern entering the room. The cat immediately pulled a face. "Oh. It's you."

"Don't sound so eager," said Krookodile, sneering. "Don't you have a totem to find?"

"Don't you?" fired back Noivern.

"Mind your own business," growled Krookodile, shoving past them. That door they came through...it looked a little familiar...right? That beach had been interesting...maybe there was more to it than just a trapdoor...

"Man, that guy is a jerk," said Noivern, shaking her head as Krookodile left the room.

"A jerk, but a smart jerk," admitted Luxray. "Let's follow him! He seems up to something. We're going to catch him in the act!"

"Yeah!"

"And find the totems!"

"YEAH!"

"AND BREAK HIS SPINE!"

"Calm down, Luxray."

000

"That croc has been telling crocs for too long!" roared Luxray. "I've almost got him! He's safe tonight, but I'll GET HIM! I'm SURE of it!"

000

"Fire hot, fire bad, let's try to get through here quickly," grunted Crobat, soaring through the molten ruins. The fire maze was certainly not a pleasant place to be. The heat had taken a lot of energy out of the bat and he found himself stopping to rest far more than was comforting. In addition, there were definitely some Pokemon lurking around- Crobat was sure he saw Houndoom slinking through the shadows, using his black fur to blend in. The scenery itself was a maze itself- no matter how high he flew, Crobat would encounter large walls and tunnels that would turn him around and confuse him.

"Vileplume knew what he was doing- I bet he got help though," said Crobat. He peered up ahead, seeing another tunnel. Gliding through it, he looked around, keeping an eye out for any branching paths.

He had his own things to worry about, though. He wasn't an idiot, and he had seen Honchkrow pull Krookodile to her earlier. What was she up to? They were already in a poor enough position for making deals as it was with him- getting in deeper was the last thing they needed to do. Crobat closed his eyes for a moment, trying to think if there was any way he could break through to Honchkrow, but nothing came to mind. She was as stubborn as they came- even on good terms, he had to tread lightly at times.

With another flap of his wings, Crobat exited the tunnel, before halting in midair. His eyes widened- he had entered an enormous cave that appeared to be filled with lava. Two gigantic volcanoes were on the opposite sides of the cave, and several large pillars of stone were sticking out of the molten depths. Crobat gaped, unable to say anything for a moment, before he sighed.

"No risk to our life, eh? Yeah right, Vileplume."

000

"Truthfully, there are barriers above the lava- no one's at risk," explained Vileplume. "In fact, all of the obstacles have safety precautions so no one should get seriously injured."

000

"THERE IS LAVA IN THE FIRE MAZE!" screamed Weavile in horror.

000

Crobat continued forward, gliding through the air, looking at the series of islands floating in the molten sea. His eyes flickered between all of the rocks, before zooming in one one...hang on...what was that? The bat soared through the air, getting a closer look. On one of the islands in the center of the fiery ocean was what appeared to be a shrine...and surrounding that shrine were several objects, not unlike the idols that Mew had planted on the Nightmare Isle, though far smaller than the true idols. Crobat glanced around- he was alone. No one was near. But...he couldn't have found the shrines already. Could he?

He soon reached the island, taking a few breaths to relax as he moved towards the shrine. Sure enough, there were several small red statues surrounding the shrine. And each of them had a small ring attached to them- Crobat supposed it would be easier to carry them that way. He flew forward and hooked his foot onto one of the idols. Despite it resembling some sort of precious stone, it was surprisingly light. The red crystal cylinder was covered with a peculiar pattern, with a fire symbol etched on the top. Crobat still looked confused.

"Is it this easy, or did I just get lucky?" he muttered. Then he shook himself off. "No time to find out! I've gotta bolt!"

He took to the skies, gliding through the hot air as he flew on to find the next maze. Nearby, two Pokemon stepped out from a nearby passage. Bisharp had a grim smile of triumph on his face as he motioned for Toxicroak to follow him.

"Look at that. The bat led us right to it."

"But he flew to the rock," said Toxicroak. "How do we get there?"

"Good question," murmured Bisharp. "I'd rather not wade through the lava."

Toxicroak gave a nervous laugh, before looking around. Despite not having Dry Skin as an ability, he was no huge fan of lava either. A path to that island would definitely be helpful. He peered around before noticing some rocks jutting out to the left. Further on, he saw what appeared to be a wooden bridge, connecting to one of the lava-surrounded rocks. He tapped Bisharp on the shoulder and pointed.

"You think that might work?"

Bisharp followed his eyes and nodded. "Seems to be our best option...which isn't comforting."

"Do you think that wooden bridge is safe? I mean, if we go over the lava, it might burn or something."

"Vileplume said there was no risk to life, but I'm not sure about obstacles. They could hurt us. Regardless, I doubt we're in any real danger- the lava could possibly kill us, so they must have SOMETHING in place to stop it. Let's go."

"If you say so."

The two made their way towards the island, before Toxicroak let out a warning croak. Bisharp nodded, and the two hid behind a large broken pillar. They heard a low bark nearby and the sound of rapid cursing. Bisharp glanced around the corner to see Banette duck in and out of the huge cavern, not even noticing the islands.

"Shit, shit, shit!"

Toxicroak looked a bit confused, opening his mouth to ask Bisharp a question, but Bisharp slammed his hand over Toxicroak's mouth. Another few seconds passed and to their immense shock, Arcanine came from the same hallway as Banette, glancing around.

"Now where did that puppet go...well, he didn't see the totems so..."

The dog snorted and ran into a different area. Bisharp let out a sigh of relief.

"Too close," said Bisharp.

"Yeah, sorry about that," said Toxicroak weakly.

"Not a problem. Your sharp eyes is what got us this far in the first place. Spotting Crobat and then the bridges? Good work, Toxicroak. Let's go."

000

Gliscor swooped out of the air and landed on a branch, letting out a quiet huff. The Grass maze seemed almost endless- there was always a new tree waiting for him around every corner. He had gotten tangled in the vines twice and was getting sick of getting lost.

He wished Noivern was here. She was something that would have made the entire maze a little brighter. And the thought of getting lost with Noivern wasn't a bad thing. A blush came to his face for a moment, before he shook himself. Still, if she wanted to go this round with Luxray, who was he to get in her way? Gliscor liked guy time occasionally, so girl time was fine in his book.

That being said, he wished Crobat had chosen this maze first- he'd have enjoyed having a buddy, especially one that was so smart and approachable (and even though Honchkrow chose this maze, it wasn't like she was the friendliest around). Gliscor glided through the air again, making sure to weave through the branches of the high trees.

But what was really interesting was that Crobat and Honchkrow had seemed to directly avoid each other. THAT was peculiar- the two had been a dynamic duo for most of the game, and all of a sudden, Crobat is hanging out with him and Gengar while Honchkrow seems to be avoiding him. Gliscor frowned. Maybe something had happened between them. Maybe he could help. Gliscor was so lost in thought for a moment that he bumped into a massive tree. Groaning, he fell down a bit, shaking his head.

"Stupid, giant, wooden piece of- wow, this thing is huge!"

While most of the trees were just tall, his tree was gigantic. An ancient oak of some kind, the branches were stretched out almost fifty feet at least. The wooden was old and gnarled and there were so many ridges along the bark. Only as Gliscor looked closer, he realized they weren't ridges- they were steps! The tree was draped with vine bridges and steps. Gliscor paused.

"I bet anything the totems are there," he muttered, gliding in closer. He zoomed in for a moment, before his eyes widened and he stopped. Was there a flicker around there somewhere? He squinted and held a breath- sure enough, someone was moving in that tree. Someone small and...light blue? Gliscor gently floated downwards to get a closer look. He was right. Making her way up and around the tree was Medicham. Gliscor slowly moved in to observe her, smiling cleverly to himself. Medicham was scaling the bark at rapid speed, jumping from branch to branch and sprinting across the bridges. He'd let her do all the hard searching- he'd just swoop in and help himself to a totem right after her. Pretty smart idea, if he'd say so himself.

Of course, he didn't realize Honchkrow was right behind him doing the same thing.

000

"Lead me right to dat idol, big guy," said Honchkrow, grinning.

000

"I know I've made fun of people for having a stick up their ass, but this is ridiculous," huffed Kabutops, rubbing his backside. "Stupid bushes..."

000

Weavile angrily squeezed water out of her fur. The water maze was full of tricks and traps, and at any other time, it would've been fun. But after entering through the wrong door and going down a random water slide for the third time, she was peeved. Not only that, but the second time, she had found Lapras drifting in a lake waiting for her. Even though Weavile had explained that she had no totems, the large Pokemon had still chased her off.

But Weavile wasn't a fool- she noticed that Lapras had chased her in one direction, far away from the far side of the room. Lapras knew that she had no idol, but she was trying to make sure she didn't FIND it. Still, what the heck would Lapras have done if she had caught her? Not like she could confiscate what Weavile didn't have. But either, when Weavile had found the room again, Lapras was no longer there. And more importantly, she had found an underwater tunnel in said lake.

Which had led her down ANOTHER water slide. Thoroughly soaked and annoyed, Weavile stomped her foot.

"I HATE MAZES!"

Her voice echoed, but her ears perked up as she heard a creaking. Quiet footsteps soon followed and Weavile ducked into the shadows, watching the area where the noise came from carefully.

A clear, calm voice rang out.

"Who is there? Friend or foe?"

Weavile let out a sigh of relief. Alakazam. "It's me, Weavile."

Alakazam stepped into the room, peered around for a moment, before nodding to her. "And how is this little game faring for you?"

"Dunno if you heard me shout just now, but I hate mazes."

"I thought I heard a ruckus nearby. That explains it," said Alakazam. "Perhaps I could be of assistance."

He held out his arm and Weavile gasped. Dangling around one of his fingers was a blue crystal cylinder with intricate designs covering it all over. A raindrop was etched into the top.

"You found a water totem!"

"Not a water totem. I found all of them. They're all stored together."

"Lucky you," said Weavile, annoyed. "Why didn't you take them all to prevent anyone else?"

"It wouldn't let me take two. I assume Mew and Vileplume have some restrictions in place. Barriers of some sort."

"Well, at least the totems exist. Now I have to find it."

"I may be able to point you in the right direction," said Alakazam, his voice kind. He jerked his head behind him. "Head through that door, then left. You'll find a room with a beach. Ignore any doors and move down the beach until you find a series of stones and bridges. Take them to an island in the far distance- the idols are under a palm tree. Hurry up. There were two missing when I arrived."

"Two missing?" said Weavile, stunned. "Who managed to beat you to it?"

000

"WE HAVE FORMED VENT GIRLS, A TEMPORARY TEAM!" shouted Luxray happily. She held up an idol with her tail. "THAT'S OUR NAME, WINNING'S OUR GAME!"

"WE ARE GONNA ROCK!" shouted Noivern, brandishing her own water totem. "ALL THE WAY TO THE TOP, CAN'T BE STOPPED!"

"We totally got lucky finding that room though," said Luxray. "And we even beat Krookodile to it."

"Yeah, still kinda shocked about that one, yo."

000

Krookodile glared around, his eyes flickering across the water. There was an island out there. How the hell did he get to it? There had to be a way. He had snooped back into the room after seeing that Alakazam had left. The crocodile was stunned that the Psychic had been holding onto a water totem. He had contemplated swiping it from the Psychic, but now wasn't the time. Not yet. But taking down Alakazam would certainly get Honchkrow off his back. And without the risk of elimination tonight, the thought of killing two birds with one stone was juicy.

But before that, he needed to see if he could pull off a win. After all, if he won, wouldn't Mew push his immunity to the next challenge? That was something that could definitely benefit him. More safety nets were always welcome. And so were water totems.

"WHERE THE HELL IS THE WATER TOTEM?" snapped Krookodile, losing his patience. He swerved his head in agitation before something caught his eye. There, standing tall and strong in the water, was a rock. And as his eyes tracked the rock, Krookodile's sneer twisted into a grin. Of course. There was another rock not far from the first. And another. And another...and he was guessing they led all the way to that island out in the water. Krookodile cracked his knuckles. That had to be where the idol was. No doubt about it.

"Ready or not, here I come!" he snarled, hopping onto the first rock.

000

"Lucky break for me," muttered Banette, clutching a fire totem. "I managed to lose Arcanine and nab one of these babies. Tried to grab one for Weavile, but it wouldn't let me grab them. Guess there's something that doesn't let you grab 'em. Now I can get out of this place. Weavile and I can agree- fire sucks. Hope she's okay."

000

"Thank you Alakazam," said Weavile, holding a water totem and sounding relieved.

000

"There's the door," said Bisharp quietly. He held a red totem in his hands, with Toxicroak standing nearby. Thanks to him spotting the statues, the remains of Team Night were able to get a jump start in the challenge. One totem down, two for each to go. Toxicroak smiled. It was good to accomplish something, as opposed to being caught in a net or knocked out first. But with him and Bisharp working together, there wasn't much that could stand in there way. The two had wanted to split up and sabotage the rest of the totems, but they found that there was something that prevented them from taking more than one totem.

"While not being able to remove more totems was a bit annoying, we have a good start," admitted Bisharp. "And we're in luck."

Before them, standing out from the molten maze surrounding them, was a deep blue stone door with a water symbol etched into it. Toxicroak grinned. Once again, he had spotted the door before Bisharp had. Being useful was nice for a change.

"I'd normally want to split up, but since we can only take one totem at a time, I say it's best for us to stick together," said Bisharp. "Besides, if there's a way we can swipe a totem from someone else..."

"It might save us time," admitted Toxicroak. "Plus, it could get you in the Thunderdome quicker. I mean, if only one of us gets enough totems..."

"Let's worry about that later," said Bisharp. "Come. We have a Water Maze to attend to."

But as Bisharp was about to open the door, the door opened of its own accord. Alakazam looked at the two of them in surprise, before giving them a smile.

"Looks like we're switching, hmmm?"

Bisharp didn't respond. Toxicroak gave him a questioning glance, but Bisharp's eyes were pinned to the blue totem in Alakazam's grasp. Alakazam noticed where he was looking and smiled.

"I'll tell you where it is if you tell me where you got the red totems."

"What's stopping me from taking yours?" asked Bisharp, his voice deathly calm.

"I only have one. You won't secure a totem for both of you," said Alakazam. "And I can always get another one."

"You could lead us right to it," pointed out Toxicroak. "If you went back to get another, I mean."

Alakazam held his hands up. The red totem hovered in the air dangerously. "If you really think you can take it that easily, by all means. But where would you run? I know the Water Maze, and if you flee in the Fire Maze, I'll find you."

Bisharp clenched a fist for a moment, before stepping aside. Toxicroak gaped, but did the same. Alakazam glanced at Bisharp as he passed.

"Big room. Stone island. You'll see it," said Bisharp, giving Alakazam a cold, but respectful nod.

"Look for a beach. It'll be on a faraway island. Look and you'll find a pathway there," responded Alakazam courteously.

The Psychic floated into the Fire Maze, disappearing around a corner. Bisharp and Toxicroak watched him vanish, before they heard a low curse and Alakazam came sprinting around the corner.

"Houndoom! Run!"

Bisharp's eyes widened as a jet black dog appeared around the corner, hot on Alakazam's heels. Alakazam threw the door open with his mind and Bisharp and Toxicroak jumped through. Bisharp grabbed the door, holding it tight, before Alakazam leaped through. The door slammed in Houndoom's growling face. The three of them gasped for breath together. The dog must have been following the two of them.

"I doubt he'll chase us into this section," said Alakazam. "And I'm sure there are other paths I can take to get into the Fire Maze. Good luck."

The Psychic strode away, going along a different path to the Fire Maze. Toxicroak looked at Bisharp, who looked annoyed.

"I was surprised you didn't shut the door and trap Alakazam there with Houndoom," said the frog.

"I did," growled Bisharp. "He held the door open with telekinesis. He was a step ahead of us that whole time. But I'll deal with him when the time comes. Let's go, Toxicroak."

000

"I noticed a ton of people climbing that tree as I slipped out between the roots," said Kabutops, twirling an emerald totem on his scythe. "I might've gotten lost a lot, but I got the thing and got out."

He paused, before touching his chin. "Still...I wonder if I should've warned 'em that Cacturne's patrolling that area?"

"...nah."

000

Medicham leaped into the hollowed out tree trunk, her eyes flickering around the room carefully. She had scaled the steps, bridges, and branches of the giant tree until she had managed to find a gaping hole. And sure enough, on the inside was an enormous chamber. At the center of the chamber was a large shrine, surrounded by small green statues. Medicham's eyes lit up. Finally- she had managed to locate the totems in this maze. She quietly walked forward, before she heard a crack.

A shadow stepped around the shrine, and Cacturne's pale yellow eyes focused in on her. Medicham dropped into a fighting stance.

"So there ARE Pokemon patrolling the mazes...I did not expect you to be right here."

"I've been staying close to the tree, but I managed to see you coming."

"I am surprised you have not attacked."

"You haven't stolen a totem yet," said Cacturne. He gave her a nod and walked to one of the exits on the far, dark side of the sanctum. "Good luck when you do."

He disappeared through the doorway. Medicham watched him go, now wary. Before this had seemed like an opportunity, but knowing Cacturne was in the area made it more troublesome. She moved forward slowly, her eyes carefully scanning the maze before she froze, seeing a shadow glide across the floor. Medicham looked up, seeing Gliscor swoop down, a grin on his face as he made a grab for the totem. He let off another burst of speed and floated away. Medicham stopped for a moment, before she ran forward, glancing to see another shadow- Honchkrow was hot on Gliscor's heels, her eyes staring directly at the shrine. But as she dove towards her prize, her eyes widened and she backtracked. Cacturne had emerged from the shadows and took a quick swing at her.

Medicham ran forward while he was distracted, but she heard a soft fluttering to her right. A purple blur told her that Crobat had entered the scene, speeding like a bullet. He slowed for a moment and snatched a green totem, but just as he was about to pull off, Cacturne whirled around and sucker punched him out of the sky. Crobat dropped his red totem as he rolled across the ground. Honchkrow seethed for a moment, lunging at Cacturne. As the scarecrow fought of the scary crow, Medicham slipped over to snatch a totem. Cacturne dodged Honchkrow before running at Medicham. Medicham leaped away, finding a spot far enough away from him.

"Crobat dropped his totems, why not chase him?" asked Medicham.

"The fire totem isn't mine to guard."

Medicham groaned, but noticed a hole on the far right. As Cacturne grew closer, however, an angry Honchkrow launched herself at him. As the two scuffled on the floor, Medicham made a break for the door. She saw Crobat gathering his own totems and flying out a different direction. She hopped outside of the tree and bolted down the branches.

Crobat, on the other hand, glanced backwards. No doubt about it- Honchkrow had given him a chance to get in and out. He was confused- not that he wasn't grateful, but...why? Why had she helped him when she was still so angry with him?

000

"Alakazam proved useful after all," said Bisharp, smiling to himself. In his hands were a red and blue totem."Two totems down. The island wasn't particularly hard to find."

000

"We're aiming for the top this time!" said Toxicroak, chuckling. He held up a totem. "Make way for Team Night!"

000

Luxray panted quietly in the heat. "This place is burning me up! Jeez!"

"Definitely a hot spot," groaned Noivern. "Heat always makes flying a hassle."

Neither of them were as big of fans of this maze as the last. Whereas the water maze had been fun and peaceful, the burning, scorching atmosphere of this area was ominous and dark. The two of them weren't about to give up, however. They rounded another corner to find a dim hallway lit with candles. Luxray made a motion with her tail to lower the volume and the two of them scooted through it before they reached a large open room. Noivern looked up- they were almost in what appeared to be a scorched amphitheater.

"Hey, let me take a look in the air!" said Noivern. She floated up, finding some holes that resembled windows. She squinted out across the charred landscape.

"Noivern, Noivern, what do you see?" hissed Luxray.

She looked around, seeing nothing that looked of interest- the occasional torch and burning fire, but nothing that suggested a totem. But before she answered, she noticed a shadow darting near one of the flames.

"Someone's coming! Hide!"

Noivern hid on a ledge above while Luxray dove for the shadows, crouching down and using her X-ray vision to try and see who was coming. She squinted around, before she managed to see a strange outline- tall and angular and...what was up with their hands?

"I think it's Kabutops!" whispered Luxray.

"What?"

"Kabutops!"

But Luxray quickly shut her mouth and sat very still as loud footsteps grew closer and sure enough, Kabutops burst into the structure, glancing around before pressing himself against a shadowy wall right near Luxray. He looked around for a moment before his eyes passed over her. Luxray stuck out her tongue, before smacking herself with her tail- the urge had been so strong, why did she do that?

"Luxray, what are you- nevermind, shut up!" hissed Kabutops, drawing a scythe over his throat.

While she almost had a witty response to that, Luxray instead chose to remain silent. Noivern, on the other hand, called down quietly.

"Someone else is coming!"

The three Pokemon stood still and silent as quiet steps announced the arrival of Ninetales. Her eyes flickered around the area carefully before she turned and padded into the hallway that Noivern and Luxray had come from. Noivern fluttered down between the two other Pokemon and listened carefully with her enormous ears, before she held up a wing.

"I can't hear her anymore, I think she's gone."

"That could've been bad- Kabutops, what the snickerdoodle were you doing?" asked Luxray, giving him a look.

"Uh, running from HER, what do you think?" said Kabutops, annoyed. "I was nearly at those damn fire totems and she popped out and started barking her head off."

"You found the fire totem?" asked Luxray, stunned. "All we have is the totem of waves and sea!"

"Not just that, I've got grass as well," said Kabutops proudly, ignoring Luxray's strange speech. He held up a small, green cylinder in his sickles...carefully.

"Dang," Noivern said, sounding impressed. Kabutops struck a thoughtful pose.

"Tell you what- you didn't reveal me to Ninetales, so I'll do you a solid," said Kabutops. "I'll lead you back to the fire totems and tell you where grass is, but YOU tell me where the water totems are."

Luxray looked a bit suspicious. "You do two things for us but we only do one thing for you. BLASPHEMY, KABUTOPS! WHY WOULD YOU MAKE SUCH AN ENTICING OFFER?"

"Relax," said Kabutops. "Look. Luxray, it's no secret that a lot of us think you're insane, but at the end of the day, we don't think you're a bad person. I'd rather see you in the Thunder Dome or whatever it is than some other jerks."

"Are you like, not taking us seriously as a threat?" asked Noivern, seeming a little uneasy. She didn't know Kabutops well, but it seemed kind of out of nowhere for him to help them so much. Luxray was suspicious too.

"It's post merge, everyone's a threat at this point- we all made it this far, didn't we?" said Kabutops, rolling his eyes. "Point is, who do I want to meet in the Thunderdome? You two, or that jackass tyrant Bisharp and his frog crony?"

Luxray cocked her head. "Toxicroak isn't that bad, but I suppose you have a point about Bisharp. I hope he doesn't get in the Thunder Dome."

"I faced him last time, and he's pretty relentless at this point," said Kabutops. "And not just him. Alakazam and Honchkrow are still a threat, and as much as I hate to admit it, that sneaky ass crocodile is gonna slip into the Thunderdome, I just know it."

Luxray bristled. "Ugh. That dark eyed parasitic WINDOWLICKING SCUMBAG! He makes my skin crawl more than it already does on Thursday nights."

"Uh...yeah. So, I'm going back to fire city. You can follow if you want."

Kabutops took off. Luxray and Noivern exchanged a glance. Was it okay to take Kabutops's deal?

"No other bright ideas," admitted Noivern.

"We'll trust him- he's not a big jerk," admitted Luxray. "Come on- let's see where he leads us."

The two continued along the dim path, following the prehistoric Pokemon deeper into the maze.

000

Weavile hacked and slashed her way through the verdant maze. Alakazam's hint had gotten her back on track, but those totems weren't going to find themselves. She was putting off the fire maze for now so once she had found the green leafy door to the Grass Maze, she was able to try and catch the next totem. Still, she had spent far too much time in the Water Maze- she had some serious catching up to do. As she continued forward however, she heard voices. Ducking into a nearby bush, she crawled along the floor, following the voices. One sounded very familiar- Banette's easygoing voice was talking to someone else...but...it wasn't another competitor...it had to be...

Weavile hopped out, seeing Banette standing with Vileplume. Vileplume was in front of a large metal door that stood out among all of the green vegetation. The door was made of iron with large blue lightning bolts covering it. Electricity pulsed through circuits around the door, giving it a cyan glow that was rather futuristic. Banette turned and waved to Weavile, grinning.

"Hey, was wondering if I'd see you out here. Check out what I found."

"Lemme guess, a door to the Thunder Dome?" said Weavile. Vileplume nodded.

"Yeah, that's it," agreed Vileplume. "Do you have all of your totems?"

"I've only got water, what about you?" asked Weavile, looking at Banette.

"I've got Fire and Grass," said Banette.

"Oh...well, wait, I can give you my totem...right?"

Vileplume shrugged. "If you're allowed to steal them, I don't see why you wouldn't be allowed to give them away."

"Whoa, whoa, I don't want to take yours from you," said Banette. Weavile gave him an annoyed look.

"For all you know there might not BE a Water Totem left."

"There are some left," said Vileplume. Weavile and Banette gave him a shocked look.

"Can...you tell us that?"

"Don't see why not," said Vileplume cheerfully. "Do you want to know who has which totems?"

"Are you ALLOWED to do that?"

"Mew, Mewtwo and I gave no rule against it. We figured that if you find the entrance to the Thunder Dome, we can at least give you hints."

"Okay...so...how many Water Totems are left?" asked Weavile.

Vileplume paused. "Three. You, Alakazam, Luxray, Noivern, Krookodile, Bisharp, and Toxicroak have them."

"What about fire?" asked Banette excitedly. "Grass?"

"You have a fire totem. So does Bisharp, Toxicroak, Crobat, and Gliscor managed to get one a few minutes ago. So five down, five to go. But that might not last much longer. Lots of people are in the area. As for Grass...you managed to snag one, well done. Honchkrow, Crobat, Gliscor, and Kabutops all have Grass. So five left there. I'd hit up the Water Maze first."

"Take mine!" insisted Weavile.

"Hang on, hang on," said Banette. "How about you lead me to Water, and then I'll lead you to Grass and Fire."

"Grass only, we don't have much time," said Weavile. "Just tell me where they are. From the sounds of it, you have two totems, but so do Bisharp and Toxicroak. One of us has to get into that dome. And if it comes down to it, we can steal totems"

"Alright, alright, thanks for the help Vileplume!" yelled Banette as the two ran off. Vileplume just gave a smile and a wave.

"Oh...it seems like Medicham just got one as well..."

000

Medicham brushed off her arm, which looked a little singed. "Ugh...that Charizard almost managed to get me. But I managed to get the totem. Unfortunately, I wound up running back into Grass territory. I suppose I will have to find the Water Maze now..."

000

"Somehow managed to grab a Fire Totem! Guess Water is all I need!" said Gliscor with a cheer. "Now...how do I get out of this Fire Maze is the question..."

000

"See the giant volcanoes?" whispered Kabutops, peeking around a corner. "Fire Totems are on that island. I got close but then Ninetales popped up out of nowhere. You've gotta jump across the rocks and move on those bridges."

"How is this safe for anyone without wings?" asked Noivern. "I mean, look at that lava."

"It's magma," said Luxray in a perfect imitation of Bronzong that caused the other two Pokemon to jump. Kabutops cracked a weak smile.

"Yeah, the guy's probably watching the show and getting ticked off. But anyways...come on, follow me. I got super close so I sort of know the way."

Kabutops began to carefully navigate the rocky platforms, motioning for the two girls to move after him. Luxray and Noivern kept after him, before Noivern stopped.

"Yo wait. I can FLY."

Noivern flew into the air, grinning as she headed towards the red totems, but she froze as she heard a loud roar.

"NOIVERN! ABOUT FACE RIGHT! DO A LOOP DE LOOP AND SCREAM!" shouted Luxray.

Noivern looked at her, perplexed.

"MOVE, NOW!" yelled Kabutops, translating. Noivern burst into the air in time to avoid a blast of fire. She whirled around and saw an orange dragon flying through the air, straight for her. Charizard grinned, smoke billowing from his nostrils before he let out another blast. It seems that after his last incident with evolution, the Fire-type had gotten mastery over his flight abilities. Kabutops tapped Luxray.

"While he's distracted- snag the totems! And watch out, there are some fire traps?"

"Fire traps?"

"Little fireballs fly out of the lava. Don't get burned!"

The two ground-bound Pokemon ran across the bridges and hopped along the rocks. Charizard noticed them out of the corner of his eye, but Noivern flew in front of him. She let out a loud screech, causing Charizard to cover his ears.

"You gotta deal with me!" said Noivern. "If there's one thing I know how to do, it's be loud and annoying."

"Outta my way!" snapped Charizard, but Noivern kept flying in front of him. Luxray panted as she managed to grab a red totem, Kabutops carefully trying not to impale his own. The Fire totems were getting low on stock- only two of them remained. Luxray and Kabutops ran from central island, totems in hand as Luxray yelled to Noivern.

"We've got 'em Noivern! Get yours and get out."

"Would you just move?" growled Charizard as Noivern kept blocking him.

Noivern paused, before smiling. "Okay!"

She dove under Charizard, who let out a grunt of shock. Charizard turned around and his eyes widened as she dove for a totem.

Outside, in another cavern, Luxray and Kabutops were catching their breath. Each of them held a totem in their grasp. Kabutops panted, before giving Luxray a curt nod.

"Fair is fair...the grass totem...is in a big tree...watch out for Bellsprout and...Cacturne..."

"Water Totem...is on an Island of Dread...in a Sea of Troubles."

"I'm just gonna assume it's on an island then."

"Where's Noivern?" asked Luxray, sounding worried. "Do you think Charizard got her?"

"With her speed? I don't know...maybe if she got tired."

"Which I did not!" announced Noivern as she flew into the tunnel. In her claws was a red totem.

"EXCELLENT WORK, MY BATTY FRIEND! LISTEN-!"

"Luxray, can it wait?"

"NEVER! We have the hint from Kabutops, the Grass Totem is-"

"Can we talk while we move?"

"Why are you shutting me down?" whined Luxray. A loud roar answered her from the area Noivern had just entered from.

"Because Charizard is still on our tail, LET'S GO!"

"ROGER!" shouted Luxray as they bolted towards another hallway. "THANKS KABUTOPS!"

"Yeah, yeah," grunted the shellfish, dashing off to try and find an entrance to the Water Maze. He was getting way too nice for this shit.

"One last idol on the Fire Island!" shouted Mew over a loud intercom. "Grab them while you can!"

Throughout the maze, everybody perked up. Now the game was really starting.

000

"Three totems...I guess I'm going into that zone," muttered Banette.

000

"Water totem gets me into the Thunder Dome!" yelled Kabutops.

000

"THUNDER DOME, HERE I COME!" screeched Luxray. She held up a Grass Totem.

000

"We did it!" shouted Noivern. "Even escaped that little yellow psycho! I wonder how Gliscor is doing?"

000

Gliscor laid on the ground in a crumpled heap, unconscious and groaning in pain. Nearby, Krookodile was walking away, a green totem in his claws, grinning to himself. Gliscor with Grass totem, check. Big rock dropped on flying idiot's head? Double check. Gliscor had never seen it coming, and that was just how Krookodile liked it. With Gliscor out of the picture and two totems in Krookodile's hands, he just had to get one more, get in the Thunder Dome, and get out. He chuckled to himself, before he groaned in annoyance.

"Mew announced that there was only one Fire Totem left...fuck. I either need to get there or find some more suckers."

The crocodile dashed away, leaving Gliscor curled up near the entrance to the Grass Maze. A moment later, Noivern and Luxray came walking through it.

"So, we got really lucky finding that Grass Totem so early and escaping Bellsprout- HOLY SHIT, GLISCOR!"

000

"WHEN I FIND WHO DID THAT THEY'RE GOING DOWN!" roared Noivern.

000

Medicham silently made her way through the Grass Maze- she had managed to find both Grass and Fire, but reaching the Water Maze was certainly not going to be an easy task. She hadn't seen any other competitors for a while- the last one she had seen was Weavile through some trees, muttering crossly to herself about the foliage. She still had one totem left to obtain before she could gain passage into the Thunder Dome, and as of this point in the challenge, it wouldn't be likely to find a Water Totem remaining. She closed her eyes and heaved a great sigh.

There was also the inevitably of facing off with the other competitors in the dome. She didn't like the idea of Bisharp tracking her down. He'd been angry with her for weeks now. She had some theories as to why, but nothing so concrete as a reason. But she could hold back. She couldn't let her confusing relationship with the dark knight slow her down. Winning was the priority at this point, not sorting out his strange attitude.

Medicham took another few steps before she dove for a bush. She heard a voice, muttering quietly. It wasn't Bisharp's smooth, cold tone- it sounded more confused. Medicham made a curious expression before stepping out.

"Toxicroak? Is that you?"

Toxicroak leaped into the air in surprise, before relaxing for a moment. "Oh, it's just you Medicham." Then he paused before leaping back. "WHOA! Hang on, stay back! Totems are mine!"

"I have no intention of stealing from you," said Medicham, although she wasn't sure if that was true or not yet. "Where is Bisharp?"

"We split up to get our last totems," explained Toxicroak. "He's somewhere out there. Dunno exactly where."

Medicham folded her arms. "That is not entirely reassuring. He is determined to be enemies with me. I am not sure how you two are such good friends."

Toxicroak frowned at her. "It's kinda hard for one person to be the enemy of another, I mean, you need two people to have a fight. It's not like you went out of your way to be nice to him. Bisharp's my friend- just because he isn't yours doesn't mean he's a bad person."

"I- he may not be a BAD person, but he is still cruel and wins the wrong way!" responded Medicham, her tone aggravated.

"Is there really a right way to win?" asked Toxicroak, looking at Medicham in confusion. "I don't usually win challenges, but you don't win for being a good person. If this whole game was about having the best heart, Mamoswine would still be here. No offense, Medicham, but if this was a competition where you could win by being a really good person, would Pokemon like Honchkrow, Krookodile, and Alakazam be here and playing?"

Medicham folded her arms. "I am aware of the competition's rules- but unneeded unpleasantness is unnecessary."

"I dunno- I think you both are pretty similar and that's why you don't like each other," offered Toxicroak.

"I...you...I am NOTHING like him!"

"No? You both kinda hold other people to your standards and if they don't meet 'em, you don't like 'em," said Toxicroak, shrugging. "Bisharp and I get along because we both play the game and don't let much else get in our way. His plans usually work if we cooperate with him, so I do that. And in return, I outlasted Trevenant and Hypno."

Medicham's eyes narrowed. "You were an alliance."

"Wouldn't say that," argued Toxicroak. "Just a bunch of new dudes that wanted to vote together. But Hypno found out and held it over us, so we sort of had to take him in."

"That...that does not...look at how he acts Toxicroak! How he threatens and conspires to eliminate those who he wants gone! It is not right!"

"I think the line of right and wrong has been blurred," said Toxicroak. "Everyone does right and wrong. Things aren't black and white. You've done Bisharp wrong as well."

"I...only...but by his logic..."

"My logic doesn't matter," interrupted an icy voice. Medicham turned wildly as Bisharp struck her with a punch straight to the face. Her totems dropped to the floor as Medicham crumpled to the ground, dazed by the sucker punch out of nowhere. Bisharp quickly snatched up the Grass Totem and tossed it to Toxicroak, who snagged it with his long tongue. He gave Bisharp a concerned look.

"A little harsh, dude."

"Necessary- we need to get into the dome where she can't follow. She won't be stunned for long, and since I blindsided Weavile, I'm sure she's on our tail. Let's go."

"Bisharp...you...," groaned Medicham, rubbing her head. Bisharp pushed through the nearby brush without looking back, while Toxicroak glanced at Medicham one last time before following him. He gave Bisharp a confused look.

"So you got Weavile's...?"

"Grass totem, yes. We didn't have time to navigate the entire Grass Maze- I know where the Thunder Dome is. Let's go."

As their voices faded, there was another loud rustling as Weavile burst through, angrily cursing before tripping over Medicham.

"Stupid...Bisharp...and these stupid...roots- wait, Medicham? What the...have you seen Bisharp?"

"Yes...he...he attacked me and stole my totem."

"What? He stole YOURS?" asked Weavile, gaping. "Grass or...?"

"Grass."

"BUT HE JUST TOOK MINE- wait, Toxicroak. Right. Probably grabbed one for him. You can't take more than one from the circle but I guess once they're in play, anything's game."

Weavile sighed. "I mean, I guess it's for the best. No way was I touching that Fire Maze...Medicham? You okay?"

"Physically, I am well," said Medicham, taking a deep breath and standing up. "Mentally, I am more than a little annoyed. Come on, Weavile!"

"What, you want to chase them down?"

"I will NOT let Bisharp get away with this!" vowed Medicham, glaring at Weavile before dashing after the thieving duo. Weavile watched her go, looking interested and a little troubled.

"So, she's found a Hypno of her own, eh?"

000

Crobat was soaked from head to toe. "Hey, look! Let's have water jets that can soak anyone in the air and prevent them from flying! Hey, Crobat! Remember when you thought getting a Water Totem was easy?"

He sighed. "Well, maybe Honchkrow grabbed one? I can see if I can give her a totem...maybe we can talk things out."

000

Honchkrow's eyes darted back and forth. Time was short, and the totem supply was running low. The Fire Maze was full of tricks and traps, but there was no way she was going to win without getting the Fire Totem. She was on thin enough ice as it was. But still...surviving this challenge was key. Once this was over, Krookodile's immunity ended, Alakazam would be on the ropes, and maybe there would be time to talk to Crobat. She tilted her body as a giant fire ball burst from the magma below. She avoided it carefully. One wrong move and she would be in a world of hurt down below.

She had entered a huge cavern after roaming the Fire Maze for a while. The large volcanoes and smoldering path across the lava pits was a big enough clue that she was getting close to SOMETHING. A giant tree had been the symbol for Grass- a huge cave would be a pretty giveaway for Fire. She flitted her eyes around, but no one was nearby, defending anything (thankfully, it seemed that Cacturne or Bellsprout weren't allowed in the Fire section- they had been tricky to avoid). Honchkrow continued her search, before her eyes fell on a small shrine surrounded by a vast, orange lake of lava.

"Bingo," she said quietly, swooping down and carefully landing on the rocky island. Sure enough, the totem was there. In fact, only a single totem was left. Honchkrow's beak twisted into a smug smile as she moved forward. The last Fire Totem. She had made it just in time. Maybe she would pull this challenge back after all.

As she stepped forward, something flashed out of the corner of her eye. Honchkrow leaped back, her wings holding up her body. Her eyes narrowed as she turned, seeing Alakazam standing nearby, energy glowing in his hand.

"I'll be taking that," he said smoothly.

"You wanna bet?" snarled Honchkrow, giving a powerful flap of her wings. A large red wave flashed across the island as Alakazam ducked, moving carefully around the outer edge of the area.

Alakazam smiled his mysterious smile, his eyes flickering as Honchkrow flapped back and forth. "So...for better or for worse, it seems this battle is coming to an end quicker than I thought. I think we've about pushed each other to our limits, don't you? Isn't about time we end it? Some has to win, someone has to lose."

"Da one who's gonna lose is YOU!" snapped Honchkrow, rising in the air before flapping dark waves towards Alakazam. Alakazam grimaced and moved quickly, avoiding most of the pulsing attacks as he nimbly moved around the shrine. Honchkrow sneered before she dove down, charging Alakazam directly. He managed to dodge to one side, but she clipped him with one of her wings. The Psychic gritted his teeth, clutching his side.

"You picked the wrong fight!" called Alakazam, charging up what appeared to be shadowy energy in his palm. He hurled the ball at Honchkrow, who got hit in her shoulder, but the pain wasn't too significant. She returned with a powerful dark blast, but Alakazam simply summoned a barrier in front of him, easily defending himself. Alakazam clapped his hands, a smile on his face.

"A good effort! But without the numerical advantage, this is a losing battle."

"Shut up!" snarled Honchkrow, enraged. She began to launch more and more dark pulses at Alakazam, who continued to dodge around. When one attacked nearly knocked him off, he dove behind the shrine. A smile was on his face. Yes...this was what he was waiting for. A true grudge match between him and the bird. A sense of entertainment and rush of fun he hadn't had since trouncing Hypno.

"Face it, Honchkrow. You may have had me on the ropes, but without Crobat? You have no chance."

"I SAID SHUT UP!" screeched Honchkrow, dive bombing Alakazam. Alakazam grimaced as he moved around the shrine again, but as he moved, Honchkrow was ready. With a savage slash of her talons, Alakazam was knocked onto his side, letting out a gasp of pain.

Honchkrow's eyes narrowed into slits. "You...you don't know ANYTHING! DON'T ACT LIKE YOU KNOW ANYTHING OF WHAT'S GOING ON WITH ME."

Alakazam rubbed his side gingerly. "I appear to have touched a nerve...sorry."

"Sorry? YOU? DON'T EVEN-"

"No, while I do enjoy the challenge of matching wits with you, I shouldn't be taunting you about that," admitted Alakazam, looking a bit displeased. "It's not fun when things get personal."

"You...wait...you're just having FUN?" asked Honchkrow in disbelief.

"Well, I mean...I doubt you're the one who really eliminated Gothitelle. You risking Crobat makes no sense," explained the Psychic with a sigh. "I enjoy battling you and it's fun to trounce you and get you all riled up, but I was just trying to have fun."

"But...but da trash talk!"

Alakazam looked confused. "Is that not part of the game? I thought witty banter was on the table."

"BUT YOU GOT PISSED WHEN I BEAT YOU IN SOME CHALLENGES-!"

"Well, I'm not a fan of losing. Of course I got mad when I lost, but it isn't as if I hate you."

Honchkrow looked utterly flabbergasted. All this time she had thought...she had thought he was a calm, cool jerk...but he was just trying to make a hobby out of challenging her? It was his idea of a good time? If this load of shit was true, then Alakazam was one of the craziest guys in this entire game. Honchkrow hovered in the air, trying to wrap her head around it. No way...he...he had to be lying! There's no way Alakazam wasn't a jerk! He had been taunting her and messing with her the whole time. But...but if he had just been trashing her for the fun of it.

"YOU CAN'T ACTUALLY TINK I'D BELIEVE DIS SHIT, DO YA?" asked Honchkrow, blushing a little. She had never felt so embarrassed...well, except around the bat sometimes, but that was a different kind.

"I mean- why wouldn't you?" asked Alakazam, looking confused. Then his eyes widened.

"Honchkrow, move!"

"What da- GAH!" yelled Honchkrow. She had been hovering in place for too long, and one of the lava rocks had flown out of the lava. They were normally too slow to hit anyone, but since Honchkrow had been focused on Alakazam, she hadn't even noticed the rock flying up towards her. She let out a hiss of pain as she fell, spiraling downwards. She opened her eyes and grunted as she steered her plummeting body towards the shrine. She managed to curve herself to land next to the shrine in a crumpled heap. The ground had hurt...a lot, but the most wounded thing was her pride. Now she had gone and done it- not only had Alakazam totally blindsided her, but now he could just run off with the totem and-

"Are you alright?" asked Alakazam, coming over, looking shocked. The hell...the hell was he doing?

"I'm...ugh...I'm FINE!" she snapped, trying to ignore her mounting paranoia. Alakazam stepped back, looking unconvinced.

"Honchkrow, worry about our little feud later, right now- ARRRRRRGH!"

Honchkrow looked up as Alakazam let out a loud cry of pain before he dropped to his knees, groaning in pain. He was clutching his shoulder, trembling. Honchkrow looked up as a red reptile stepped out from behind him, smiling at her cleverly.

"There you go, boss," Krookodile rasped. "He's all yours. I'll be taking my leave now...and hey, look! A totem."

With a chuckle, he stepped around Alakazam (who was lying on the ground now- Honchkrow could clearly see the teeth marks in his back) and bent over, snagging his prize. He gave Honchkrow a grin.

"I kept my word, bird. Pleasure doing business with ya, but I can't waste time around here any longer."

The crocodile slowly walked away, taking his time as he hopped back across the platforms and crossed bridges as he made his way back towards the rest of the maze. Honchkrow let out a low curse as she tried scrambling to her feet. She scowled in the direction the crocodile had disappeared to- so Krookodile HAD held up his end of the bargain and helped- only he had truly helped himself. Looking back, the potential betrayal seemed completely obvious. And yet she had been fooled.

"Well...don't just lay there," snarled Alakazam in pain. "Go after him!"

Honchkrow jumped to her feet, wincing in pain. She tried to rise into the air but another jolt caused her to flop back onto the ground.

"No dice. Even if I fought through da pain, I couldn't catch up in dis condition. He got away with it. Damn him."

The two sat there in silence, thinking about their situation. It was almost funny- the final battle between them had been short and sweet- and neither one of them had one. They had been so lost in the feud, they had been utterly blindsided.

Alakazam was the first to say something, giving a low, bitter laugh.

"So this is how it ends..."

000

"Dirty rat...I'll make boots outta his hide," growled Honchkrow threateningly.

000

"Don't trust me so easily, birdbrain," crowed Krookodile, holding up his three idols.

000

Bisharp and Toxicroak quickly made there way forward, diving around the Water Temple. After the two of them had pulled off their grand plan, Bisharp had led the way out of Grass and into Water. Made perfect sense, really. Weavile and Medicham were probably waiting at the Thunder Dome entrance in the Grass Maze, but the Water Entrance could be a straight shot to the central area. Sure enough, the knight and the frog rounded a corner and found Mewtwo waiting at one of the doors.

"We have the totems. Both of us," said Bisharp, holding up his totems. "We can enter, yes."

Mewtwo smiled. "You both check out. Better hurry though. Some of your competitors are already in there."

Bisharp gave a curt nod. "Come on, Toxicroak. Let's go."

Mewtwo unlocked the large metal door and a bright light shined from the other side. Bisharp stepped forward, undaunted, with Toxicroak right on his heels. As the two passed through the light, they got their first glimpse of the Thunder Dome. Bisharp's expression became much more interested, while Toxicroak just gaped.

The central maze was supposed to represent electricity, but the amount of work that went into this creation put the other mazes to shame. Large electric towers filled the pathways, lighting up the metal maze with blue flashes. Large moving belts formed dizzying pathways over electrified pits. And even more strangely, the ceiling seemed to be designed similarly to the pathways. Toxicroak was a bit wary of that- were they going to have to walk on the ceilings? How was that even possible? Then again, it was Mew- the guy spared no expenses.

"A bit more complicated than I had anticipated, but not impossible," admitted Bisharp. "Shall we?"

Toxicroak turned. Bisharp was looking at him, wearing his usual grim smile. Toxicroak returned it, nodding.

"We got this, dude."

"Then let's go."

000

Banette scoured the area, avoiding careful wire fences and other electronic obstacles. The Thunderdome put the other mazes to shame. He had already navigated several treadmills and flipped upside down twice. And despite all how many times he had gone through the different tricks, traps, and mechanisms...

"I'm still totally lost," growled Banette, annoyed. Every pathway looked different, but every spot he reached looked different. He felt like he was blind and going around in circles.

"Really wish Weavile could've made it," he muttered. "Wonder if Kabutops managed to make the cut. I haven't seen him at all, so he must be moving pretty fast."

He rounded another corner...only to wind up in another room that he had no idea about.

"Damn it."

000

Noivern glanced around, a bit nervous. "Yo Lux, I know you can be kinda of off beat but like...you can calm down. I mean I love electricity as much as anyone but-"

"THIS IS MY DOMAIN! THIS IS THE CASTLE AND I AM ITS KING-QUEEN-ROBOT-SUPER-MEGA-DOCTOR-NINJA-LORD!" screamed Luxray, cackling as electricity coursed through her body. Grass? Water? FIRE? THIS WAS THE TRUE ELEMENT.

So far, the two of them hadn't advanced very far. They had stopped a bit before reaching the Thunder Dome after they had stumbled upon Gliscor. Noivern had been horrified and furious at the state of her boyfriend, but her fellow flying type seemed to have no idea what had happened. One moment flying, the next on the floor. After taking him over to Mewtwo, the two had entered the Thunder Dome.

"I'm tellin' ya, Lux, it had to be that crocodile!" muttered Noivern crossly. "Who else would've done that?"

"Bisharp maybe, but I don't think it's really his style," said Luxray, taking a break from her maniacal thoughts for just a moment. "Just wonder how that jerk caught Gliscor off guard. And all for a stupid totem! UGH! When I get my claws on him..."

"What are you going to do?"

"Wait out his elimination immunity. AND THEN I SHALL SMITE HIM."

"You think he managed to get in here?"

"I don't doubt it," muttered Luxray. "If he took out Gliscor and snatched his idol, that means he was probably getting desperate. I wouldn't be too shocked to see his red mug in here."

After a few more corners, they reached a large circular room, surrounded on all sides by electrified fences. It almost looked like a mini arena, but there was nothing waiting for them inside. Luxray thought for a moment- the only other Electric type who competed in Total Pokemon was Electrode, and she sort of doubted that he'd be here. What was the point of having a big room?

"Tread carefully, soldier," she hissed at Noivern. "We're deep in enemy territory."

Noivern nodded and slowly floated to the top of the room, gliding silently above as Luxray prowled through the large sanctum. The only sound was the occasional buzz and hum from the electric barriers at the outer edges of the area. Luxray huffed a sigh of relief. It seemed like there wasn't a trap after all...

"LUXRAY, WATCH OUT!" yelled Noivern suddenly. Luxray whirled around to see a barrage of rocks flying at her. She flattened her body to the ground and let them pass over her, her eyes locking onto the way they had just entered. Krookodile was standing in the doorway, gnashing his teeth in annoyance due to his attack missing. He hadn't caught sight of Noivern when he had entered the room. He clenched a fist and more rocks circled his claws.

"I'm going to need you to get the hell outta my way," the crocodile quipped.

"I'M GONNA GET IN YOUR WAY!" snapped Luxray back. "OUT OF PURE SPITE!"

"You're going to pay for what you did to Gliscor, jerk!" hissed Noivern.

Krookodile chuckled. "No rule against it. Just like there's no rule against THIS!"

Krookodile flung himself forward, and the stones flew along with him. Noivern easily darted through the air, avoiding the attack, but Luxray had to concentrate and dodge them as they came close. Luxray growled and tried to charge Krookodile down, but he easily jumped away from her before lunging forward in an attempt to chomp on her leg. Noivern intervened, kicking Krookodile in the nose, causing him to flinch hard and swipe at her instead.

"NO ONE HURTS MY BOYFRIEND AND GETS AWAY WITH IT!" screamed Noivern, before launching a sonic wave at Krookodile. Krookodile's gaze darkened before he covered his ears and dodged it. He threw a bunch of rocks back at Noivern, who got skimmed this time.

"Quit taking this shit so personally! I would've screwed over any of you!" snapped Krookodile. "This game isn't about being good, it's about WINNING! The sooner you realize THAT, the better off you'll be!"

As Noivern lunged for him again, Krookodile saw his chance. He opened his jaws and clamped down on her tail. Noivern let out a shriek of pain, while Krookodile tossed his head to the side and hurled towards one of the electric barriers. Noivern's eyes widened, but she managed to slow herself down enough before she connected with the shocking walls. She let out a sigh of relief. Krookodile spat in annoyance, but was unprepared for when Luxray slammed her body into him. With a hiss of rage, her teeth chilled into ice before she bit him on the arm. Krookodile howled in fury before viciously punching her off.

"There's a difference between playing to win and hurting others to win!" snapped Luxray. "Some people play hard, but you're just a jerk who enjoys hurting others to get ahead!"

Krookodile's mouth twisted into a snarl before swinging his tail and knocking Luxray away.

"You don't know a damn thing about me! I do what I have to to get by!" he roared, advancing on the cat with a nasty gleam in his eye. "You and your precious pork chop of a boyfriend don't understand that some Pokemon don't have TIME to play little games with their cute friends!"

Noivern tried to get in there, but Krookodile let out a vicious snarl and threw more stones at her, battering the wyvern away.

"You all play for fun, I play because I have to!" hissed Krookodile, fixing Luxray with a terrific glare. "I NEED THIS."

"I KNOW YOU NEED THIS!" snapped Luxray. "EVERYONE WITH HALF A BRAIN CAN SEE WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU! BUT YOU DON'T HAVE TO DEAL WITH IT LIKE THIS."

"YOU'RE NOT GONNA FOOL ME! ONCE YOU STOP EXPECTING GOODNESS IN PEOPLE, THAT'S WHEN YOU FINALLY CRAWL OUT OF THE GUTTER!" snarled Krookodile in response, opening his jaws to snap onto Luxray again. Luxray winced and shut her eyes, bracing herself for the pain.

CLANK!

Luxray looked up to see Krookodile's jaws locked around one of Kabutops's scythes. Luxray gaped at the sight, while Kabutops gritted his teeth, flexing his legs as he tried to remain in place. Krookodile's eyes were locked on the fossil Pokemon, glaring in both fury and disbelief.

"Kabutops?" asked Luxray, confused. "Why are you...?"

"Just shut it and keep moving. You and I helped each other out, and honestly, I'd rather prevent this guy from getting another immunity than get it myself," muttered Kabutops in a tone that left no room for argument. "Just go. I'll handle this guy."

Luxray frowned, opening her mouth as if to say something, but thought better of it. She nodded to Noivern. "C'mon Noivern, let's move."

"But-"

"I SAID COME ON!" shouted Luxray, getting a spark of her military leader back. "YOUR ADMIRAL DEMANDS IT."

Noivern decided not to argue, and the two of them quickly made their way to the next room. Krookodile's nostrils flared as he released Kabutops and stepped back.

"You just love getting in my way don't you? When the hell are you gonna win a challenge instead of making us both lose?"

Kabutops smirked. "Old habits die hard I guess. Come on, give me your best shot!"

Both Pokemon rushed at each other, colliding with another powerful crack.

000

Honchkrow stretched herself a bit more, before wincing in pain. "No good. Dere's no way I'm gonna make it in dat Thunderdome now."

"Makes two of us," grunted Alakazam, who had pulled himself up to lean against the shrine. Honchkrow fixed him with a look.

"Did you mean dat shit? About not hating me?"

"Why would I hate you?" asked Alakazam tiredly. "You may be an opponent, but it isn't as if you hurt someone I cared about. If anything, you're the best player I've done battle with- both Weavile and Hypno were terrible people at the time. Well, Weavile wasn't terrible, but a loose cannon at the very least."

Honchkrow frowned. "I never meant for dis to go so far."

Alakazam paused. "Then why did it?"

"I dunno I just...I wanted to prove myself dat I could win. Dat I was strong. Dat I could take everyone outta my way and carry Crobat and myself to da end. But I think I...I just was afraid."

"Of?"

"Making friends. Exposing myself. You let people in, dey know yer weaknesses, y'know? With Crobat it's...it's scary, knowing how much you love a person. How a Pokemon can mean so much to you, so much that you let dem in and know your weaknesses, fears, and self esteem. And with one it was fine but...with a bunch of people around here...it was easier to put a wall up."

"You were scared of being known. I assume that being known in your line of work is dangerous."

Honchkrow nodded. "It is. Very dangerous. But Crobat and I...he doesn't want to be alone with me, but I'm scared to follow him out dere...and I'm even more scared of losing him."

"I can understand that. Outside of Gothitelle, I have no one."

"You have some friends. Weavile, for instance."

Alakazam laughed bitterly. "Yes, I have Weavile, as long as we're both here- we don't exactly go and hang out with one another. Honchkrow, I'm rather brilliant- the smarter you are, the less people trust you. You think you know what it's like to be hated but...I'm almost positive everyone in this competition would rather me not return at all. The same in real life, I suppose- I am but a necessary evil. I'm useful for my brainpower, but not exactly desirable because of it."

"What, just because yer smart Pokemon don't want anything to do with you. Dere are OTHER Alakazam out dere, right?"

"Yes...and they mostly socialize with one another but...I lack the brain capacity for them. Genetics, and all that," said Alakazam, heaving a sigh. "And do not get me started on my father. When I lost Gothitelle here, I...I was so angry, so lost for a moment without her...I lashed out at everyone. It's hard to lose the one person who accepted you. I was out for blood, even though it's obvious you're not Mister B."

Honchkrow paused. "You're not him either, are you?"

"Not my style," confirmed Alakazam. "I have far better methods of influencing votes than with anonymous notes. And besides, Mister B? Mister E is a far better name."

"So you've said," agreed Honchkrow, sounding amused. She sighed. "I dunno, Alakazam. I dunno what to do at dis point."

"Talk to Crobat. Get help," said Alakazam simply.

"Yeah, probably a good idea," admitted the bird. "He's da one who got me thinking about all dis shit in da first place. Gotta figure out what to say. And what about you?"

"What ABOUT me?"

"Don't you think you should tell everyone how you feel?"

"It's unimportant. I've been around longer than you- I've made quite a name for myself," said Alakazam, eyes closing.

"...y'know if you wanna call off dis war of ours...," muttered Honchkrow. "I'm willing to uh...let bygones be bygones?"

Alakazam gave her a surprised look. "After everything that's happened?"

"Neither of us were really being nice."

"True. I suppose a ceasefire is fine by me. Truce?"

"Truce."

Alakazam smiled. "Well, it was fun while it lasted."

Honchkrow chuckled. "You've got a weird idea of fun."

"You didn't enjoy yourself?"

"Hey, maybe I'm kinda weird too."

"Look at that, you're opening up already."

Honchkrow paused. "I guess I am. Maybe it's just relieving to know I'm not the only one out there who feels out of place."

Alakazam gave a nod. "Being brilliant and powerful is among one of the most desired things for most people. But once you've achieved it, it's the loneliest feeling in the world."

"Yeah...you get it," said Honchkrow, her tone far less aggressive than normal. "It's so weird to have someone get it."

Alakazam paused. "Are we becoming friends?"

"Maybe?" asked Honchkrow. "I'm sort of new at this 'friendly shit'. Admittedly, if I could fly and fight, I could be beating the shit out of you right now."

"Not as easily as you'd think."

The two of them sat there longer.

"We really are lucky to have such important people in our lives, eh?" asked Honchkrow.

"Hmmm? You mean Crobat and Gothitelle."

"I just feel bad...we dragged dem into a dumb, hopeless war."

"They went along with it. They loved us."

"Still. I want Crobat to enjoy da game while he's here."

"I suppose that's fair. Do you think he's in the Thunder Dome."

Honchkrow tapped her beak thoughtfully. "Tough call. He's a smart one, but even he has his limits. Plus if someone attacked him and tried to steal his goods, he'd have trouble fighting them off."

Alakazam gave a nod. "I wonder how it's going in that maze anyway."

000

"Hey, the maze challenge was so fun!" shouted Banette, throwing his hands up. "Y'know what would be better? FOUR MAZES! All with twists and turns and tricks and traps and I WAS LOST FOR SO FUCKING LONG!"

000

"That stupid, shitty SHELLFISH!" howled Krookodile. "I SWEAR TO GOD..."

000

"Ha ha...so worth it," said Kabutops, laughing.

000

Luxray and Noivern continued through the Thunder Dome, looking down every passage and peeking behind every corner. They hadn't encountered anyone else since Kabutops had fought off Krookodile for them. No Pokemon appeared to be patrolling the maze, but still, neither of them had any idea who else was inside. Assuming that Kabutops kept Krookodile busy, they could even have a straight shot for the title!

Still, they were in rough shape- Noivern's bite from Krookodile still stung, and Luxray was starting to run out of steam...if only a little bit.

"You think any other dudes got in here?" asked Noivern.

"Tough to say- not many, or we'd see more. Unless they activated active camo."

"What...?"

"I'd place a bet that Banette and Bisharp got in...maybe Crobat too. But other than that, I have no clue."

The two reached the end of another hallway, where a large octagon-shaped door was waiting. They slowly walked through it to find themselves in an enormous room, flashing with electrical currents running up the wall. A large staircase led to a large platform below. Vivid blue electric barriers flashed around the edge of the platform, just like the other pathways. Three other staircases from the other sides of the room led down to the platform. In the center of the floor was a podium, and large golden totem sat snugly atop it. It gleamed in the flashing lights, shining brilliantly. Luxray and Noivern exchanged a shocked glance.

"Holy shit, we found it," whispered Noivern.

"I could totally put that in my reactor and cause a fifth ice age," whispered Luxray.

"Wait what?"

"NOTHING!" shouted Luxray. "COME NOIVERN! WE SHOULD CLAIM THE IDOL!"

The two of them started down, before they both froze.

"Wait, only one of us can grab it, right?" asked Noivern. "So which of us gets it?"

Luxray frowned, tapping her chin. "Hmmm...good question, sport. I do not know."

Noivern glanced at it. "I mean...Krookodile's mad at you. Maybe you need the immunity more?"

Luxray shook her head. "You helped me along. You deserve it to...what if we grabbed it at the same time? What would Vileplume and Mew do?"

"Hey, that could work!" agreed Noivern. "Wanna try it?"

"I AM ONE HUNDRED AND TWELVE PERCENT CERTAIN I WOULD LIKE TO TRY IT! COME ON NOIVERN!"

The two of them moved down the stairs quickly, Noivern closing the distance a bit faster. As she flew towards the altar with the golden statue, she glanced to her right, hearing something. Noivern planted her feet on the ground to slow down as something deep red flashed in front of her. Bisharp glared as he passed, a dark energy glowing around his sharp hand. Noivern skidded to a halt, while Bisharp turned, putting his hands up again.

"I don't think so. That totem is mine."

"Luxray, watch out!" shouted Noivern.

Luxray ran forward, keeping her eyes focused on Bisharp, before she noticed the ground get darker around her feet. As the shadow grew larger, Luxray glanced upward and saw Toxicroak flying towards her, a grin on his face. Luxray rolled out of the way, but Toxicroak managed to land nimbly on his feet, dropping into a defensive crouch.

"Should've known you two teamed up!" shouted Luxray, her eyes sparkling with a challenge. "An alliance, aren't you?"

"Who says it's an alliance. We could simply be friends," said Bisharp, rolling his eyes.

"You've never had a friend, you said it yourself," pointed out Luxray.

Bisharp and Toxicroak exchanged an awkward glance for a moment, and Bisharp hesitated for a second. Then his eyes darkened. "It doesn't matter what we are. What matters is the challenge. We're not losing. Toxicroak, go!"

"You got it dude!" shouted Toxicroak, flinging himself at Noivern. Poisonous energy glowed around his fist as he lunged towards the dragon. Noivern quickly took to the air, but Toxicroak leaped at her again. Luxray watched them, her worried eyes flickering between them, before she jumped back and raised her tail. She used it to block Bisharp's incoming strike, before trying to headbutt him. Bisharp scoffed and knocked her head away.

"Don't get distracted. Your chance of winning is small enough."

"WE'LL SEE ABOUT THAT, BOY!" shouted Luxray, turning around and giving Bisharp a kick in the leg. Bisharp stumbled backwards, unharmed but off balance. He glared and charged back for her. Meanwhile, Noivern was divebombing Toxicroak, but the frog always managed to avoid her in the nick of time. Toxicroak fired back with some punches and kicks, but Noivern was usually able to hover out of reach. Toxicroak's eyes tracked her before carefully jumping up, whipping his long tongue at her. Noivern let out a gasp as she was hit, plummeting down.

"DUDE! That is SO GROSS!"

Toxicroak wiped his tongue. "Ugh, when did you last shower?"

Noivern scowled and sent a large blue wave at the frog, which made Toxicroak stagger before he jumped up and whacked Noivern out of the sky with a poisonous fist. Noivern went shooting downwards, letting out a cry as she hit the ground. Luxray's eyes flared at the sight, and she charged up before hitting Bisharp with a shocking tackle. Bisharp let out a groan, clutching his stomach, before swinging his leg back and nailing Luxray with a vicious kick. Luxray rolled over, hitting the ground hard. Bisharp scoffed, turning to Toxicroak.

"Easy enough. Toxicroak, let's get this finished."

"On it boss!" said Toxicroak, moving towards the idol. Noivern struggled to sit up, before inhaling deeply and letting out an enormous burst of sound. Toxicroak immediately fell over, clutching his ears, while Bisharp let out a snarl of frustration. Toxicroak recovered long enough to let out a glob of sludge from his mouth, hitting Noivern hard and immediately knocking her out. But Luxray had her chance. She ran at Bisharp, fiery energy appearing around her teeth. One good bite and she had him. As she drew closer, Bisharp froze, turning around. His eyes widened.

But Luxray never reached him. Toxicroak had leaped over Bisharp and grabbed her, holding her back.

"Toxicroak-," began Bisharp.

"GRAB IT!" grunted Toxicroak, barely holding Luxray back. But Bisharp didn't move for a moment. He stopped, looking troubled.

"But you-"

"One of us needs to win!" insisted Toxicroak. Luxray tried in vain to struggle free, before leaning and biting down Toxicroak on the arm. His grip slipped and she jumped forward, flying at Bisharp angrily. But Toxicroak flipped onto his stomach, launching his tongue and grabbing Luxray by the tail, slamming her down again.

"GO!"

Bisharp shook himself off and nodded, turning and making a break for the shrine. As he did so, he noticed something appearing close to it- a bunch of shadows gathered on the floor as Banette slowly emerged, a long claw reaching for the golden totem. Bisharp's eyes flashed, before he zipped forward.

"Oh no you DON'T!" he snapped, lashing out at Banette with a powerful slash of his blade. Banette's eyes widened as he was sent skidding across the floor. Bisharp reached out and grabbed the golden totem, holding it high in the air. A smile appeared on his face, his eyes glued to his prize.

"I win."

Luxray growled angrily as she felt Toxicroak's tongue leave her tail. She spun her head around and glared at him "You just let him win! You didn't even try to grab it for yourself!"

Toxicroak was silent. Luxray pawed at the ground, electricity flowing through her body. They had been so close! But at the eleventh hour, victory was snatched away like a Mandibuzz looking for a delicious meal! It hadn't even been Krookodile this time!

There was a loud flash as Mew, Mewtwo, and Vileplume appeared next to the altar in the middle. Mew was clapping his hands, a grin on his face.

"Well done, well done!" he said with a laugh. He spoke again, this time his voice amplified and moving through the entire maze. "Attention campers! Bisharp is the winner of this challenge! If you are still in the mazes, the Pokemon patrolling will lead you out! After we head back to camp, take some time to yourselves before we decide who is going home tonight!"

Toxicroak got up and patted Bisharp on the back. "Nice one dude."

Bisharp frowned. "I wouldn't have grabbed it without you. You should've had the immunity, not me."

"Eh...I don't think I've pissed anyone off too much. With the whole Medicham thing I mean...you need all the help you can get," said Toxicroak.

"Even so. Why didn't you take it?"

"You're my friend," said Toxicroak simply.

"That can't be it," said Bisharp, narrowing his eyes.

"No, that's it."

"You heard what Luxray said," said Bisharp, sounding uncomfortable. "I don't have any friends."

"I might not be yours, but you're mine," said Toxicroak, shrugging his shoulders. He turned to follow Mew, who was leading everyone out of the maze. "It isn't that complicated. You coming, man?"

Bisharp stood for a moment, glancing at the golden idol still in his grasp, before turning and nodding. "Sure. Wait for me...friend."

000

"We were SO CLOSE!" shouted Noivern. "But like, seriously, I can't believe that Toxicroak just gave up the immunity so Bisharp could get it. Who does that? Seriously? Ugh, I guess we kinda deserve that after Krookodile saved us from Kabutops."

000

"That maze was a bit dangerous- apparently Honchkrow and Alakazam had to visit the infirmary afterwards- something about fire balls and all that stuff," said Weavile, shuddering. "I can at least say that I'm happy I didn't go in that Fire Maze. No thank you."

000

"Bisharp and Krookodile with immunity...not a good night," said Medicham harshly.

000

"I've gotta do something...I...crap, she's not okay!" said Crobat, looking scared.

000

Most of the campers were eating after the long challenge, gathered up in the cafeteria together. There were some noticeable absences- Honchkrow and Alakazam were still resting up, while Medicham had excused herself to do some endurance training now that they had left the maze. Still, there was a heaviness in the air- now that the merge was here, everyone was all too aware that close friends would be returning home soon.

Weavile broke the silence.

"You think those two will be okay?"

Kabutops shrugged. "Honchkrow's a boss, and Alakazam is tougher than he looks. I'm sure they'll be fine though. Wonder how it happened."

"How what happened?" asked Gliscor, adjusting an ice pack on his head, wincing at the cold in annoyance.

"Honchkrow is covered in burns and Alakazam took a nasty hit from behind- Charizard apparently found them both passed out next to the fire shrine," explained Banette. "I'm guessing they duked it out? Got in a bad fight or something."

Nearby, Crobat shivered. 'I should have been there.'

"Yikes...but I wonder why they fought. I mean, I would expect over a totem, but none was there according to Charizard- maybe someone else nabbed one from them," said Kabutops.

Krookodile smirked. Yeah, he hadn't won the challenge, but he was immune AND he had managed to knock Honchkrow and Alakazam out of the prize in one move.

"Well, whatever happened, you think they'll be awake in time to vote?" asked Noivern. "I mean, Krookodile and Bisharp are immune, so that kinda means the votes are limited, right?"

She punctuated that statement with a glare at Krookodile, who bared his teeth at her. But he noticed that Luxray didn't share the same look. She gave him a strange look- almost one that was telling him to shut up, but not out of anger. There was no fury in her eyes, no wackiness that usually expressed itself on her face. She just seemed to have a weird knowing look. And it was bugging him.

"Agreed- with two immune and two players out of commission, that would definitely skew the elimination process heavily," said Bisharp, as if his immunity had nothing to do with it. "But maybe there's a solution for us. Question...how badly injured are they?"

"Why do you ask?" asked Weavile, giving Bisharp a suspicious look.

Bisharp's expression was neutral. "Depending on their status, a mercy elimination for the injured could be considered."

Weavile's gaze hardened. "Alakazam healed up just fine last time, and Honchkrow is strong too. Are you seriously worried about your neck being on the line?"

"At the current time? No," said Bisharp smoothly. "I'm immune. I'm merely saying we can kill two birds with one stone- mercy elimination of a large threat."

Kabutops scoffed. "You want us to eliminate based on injury. Why would we do that?"

"It's not like you can eliminate me anyway," said Krookodile suddenly. He turned and gave everyone a sneer. "Let's not pretend you don't want to."

Weavile, Kabutops, and Noivern all fixed the crocodile with nasty looks. But he didn't care. Krookodile shrugged his shoulders.

"Once you get rid of me, who will you target next? Do you know who Mr. B is? Is Honchkrow too powerful? What can Alakazam do?"

Weavile didn't falter, but both Noivern and Kabutops looked a bit uneasy. That was true- Krookodile was a shitty piece of work, that was true, but at least he was an open, known threat. Alakazam was a genius by their standards, and what Honchkrow lacked in her intelligence, she made up with unpredictability. Everyone seemed to be pondering it as of now. Gliscor looked thoughtful, while Crobat was watching everyone, his eyes moving from face to face.

"I don't want Alakazam or Honchkrow to be around if they don't have to be," muttered Toxicroak.

"I mean, a mercy elimination isn't awful, it happened to me," pointed out Gliscor.

"You resigned," argued Weavile. "Not saying it didn't suck, but you made the choice. Honchkrow and Alakazam haven't said anything."

"If you intend on playing this game to make everyone feel better, the high road will look nice. You'll find it difficult to win that way," said Bisharp.

Weavile was about to answer hotly, but Kabutops folded his arms, giving Bisharp a look of interest.

"What do you have in mind?"

Crobat froze. They weren't seriously considering this, were they? Honchkrow would be livid if she knew they wanted to vote her off because of an INJURY.

"Alakazam or Honchkrow. I say it's a fair choice. If we all agree on someone, a unanimous vote will get a large threat off of our backs," explained Bisharp.

Weavile scowled. "That seems like a real kick in the ass to them, though."

"We all get our asses kicked now and then...some more than others," pointed out Toxicroak, a bit glumly.

Bisharp looked at Weavile. "If it makes you feel better, I'd prefer Honchkrow gone."

Crobat whirled and stared at Bisharp. "Why her?"

"Well, to be honest- she has an advantage with you still in the game. Alakazam is at least treading water by himself."

Crobat swallowed. "That's not...look...we're not even really...working together right now."

"I'm more than aware of that. In fact, I'd say it's in your best interest as well, then," said Bisharp, shrugging his shoulders. "If you regain her as an ally, we'll probably target you two. If you don't, I doubt she'll want you on the island for long."

Crobat glared at Bisharp."That isn't what would happen. If you really think that's what would happen, then your strategic sense is as poor as your ability with people."

Noivern gasped, and Kabutops's eyes widened. Bisharp looked like he had just been slapped in the face. Toxicroak's eyes moved between them, wondering what was going to happen, but Bisharp regained composure quickly.

"My way with people aside, why is that a poor strategy?"

"You're putting Honchkrow with a partner above Alakazam as a priority? I take it you don't know Alakazam well."

Bisharp looked intrigued. "Interesting. Explain?"

Explain? Crobat cursed inwardly. He had no idea what he was doing! He was stalling for time, hoping that somehow he could get Bisharp to back off of Honchkrow, damn it! Honchkrow was a huge threat and everyone knew it, how was he supposed to bluff about this? And should he? What if Bisharp had a point? Honchkrow was merciless to her enemies, and with the way things were going right now...soon enough he could be...

No! No, what the hell was he thinking? Honchkrow wasn't an enemy or a monster, she was just a Pokemon like him! She would never have hurt intentionally, no way. They got into fights but...she still saved him. She saved him that one time from Mister B's request. Not once, twice.

First Gothitelle, and then Gengar. Crobat's name had been up for elimination and even when it was dangerous, or not her best course of action, Honchkrow dropped all plans and saved him. Crobat closed his eyes. He was trying to keep them both on the island, but Honchkrow had done her part to keep them both on as well.

And now they wanted to eliminate her for it.

'I need you, Honchkrow...you're the talker,' thought Crobat, panicking. 'What the hell do I say?'

"Well?" prompted Bisharp. Crobat took a deep breath. Guess he had to wing it.

"So for starters, if you think Honchkrow would backstab me, you're completely wrong. That's not her character," said Crobat.

"Character doesn't matter- that's the game," argued Bisharp.

"That's how you play- I doubt Trevenant was fine with you eliminating him," said Crobat, smirking. "And I wonder how you'll be able to strike deals if you keep stabbing every friend in the back. Eventually, no one's gonna look the other way when you're around. Honchkrow won't vote me off. So, I have no incentive to vote for her. And you really think Alakazam is less of a threat?"

"How is he not?"

"Notice how it's taking Honchkrow AND me to try and take down Alakazam, and he's still holding out?" asked Crobat. "Hypno, Bronzong, and me and Honchkrow have all tried. He's still here. And I think we veterans know how well Alakazam destroys alliances to weaken the competition. He did it to Weavile way back in Season One."

"Hey, that's...he's changed! He's not a bad guy anymore!" protested Weavile.

"The game is neutral- good or bad comes in people, not rules," insisted Crobat. "There doesn't need to be malice. How many eliminations has he been involved in, overall? More than anyone else here, I think. And we don't even know how far ahead he's thinking. Remember the Mega Evolution?"

"Who could forget that?" muttered Banette to Gliscor. "That shit was messed up."

Gliscor gave a low grunt of agreement.

"I'm not saying that's Alakazam," said Crobat, giving Weavile a pointed look. "But we don't really know how it works. If anything, Banette can clear that stuff up. Are you aware of the Mega inside of you and stuff like that?"

All eyes were on Banette, a bit curiously. He looked at his hands awkwardly, before shrugging his shoulders.

"Hard to describe honestly. It's kind of like when you bottle up an emotion in your head, you know what I mean? But there's a switch. And all of this energy and power of another side of you just gets switched on and explodes out of you. And you can't stop it. But things can push the switch, you know? People can push you and push you and your control can almost slip and BAM! Mega Evolution. Happened when Trevenant pushed me around, happened when Gengar got scared in the haunted house, and Medicham activated hers on her own. Anything can happen."

"So you're aware of it, is what I'm hearing, right?" asked Crobat.

"Pretty much," confirmed Banette. "Why?"

"Mega Alakazam was out for a few minutes and he already started concocting a plan to win the entire game," explained Crobat. "How much of that does Alakazam have of that? We don't know how far he got before Luxray's brain waves through him off."

"AND I'D DO IT AGAIN!" cried Luxray. Then she frowned. "Sorry. Not the time to speak of my conquests. Continue."

Everyone stared at Luxray for a medium amount of time before turning back to Crobat.

"Alakazam could still have that plan- he might be playing us all for fools," said Crobat.

"A very interesting idea- but where's the proof?" asked Bisharp.

"You want to waste time looking for proof?" asked Crobat, chuckling. "I hope it's not too late for you."

"But this isn't...it's not...," blustered Weavile, staring at Crobat. "Don't throw Alakazam under the bus if you want to save Honchkrow!"

"Alakazam hasn't exactly lied about how good he is at this," pointed out Noivern. "The dude is mad scary."

"This sounds just like last time when we voted him out instead of Hypno...I mean, I think Alakazam was the bigger threat, but Hypno was way worse," muttered Banette.

"If you want to take chances with Alakazam, fine," said Crobat. "But I know I don't. If you want to vote out Honchkrow, fine. But if Alakazam manages to keep wiggling through your fingers, good luck."

With those final words, he flew out of the cafeteria. A stunned silence was left in his wake.

"Well...now what do we do?" asked Gliscor, looking confused.

No one was able to answer.

000

"Well, that was one hell of a final challenge!" said Mew, grinning. "The final challenge of PAST HOSTS! Ha! Mew is back, baby! I've got so many ideas cooked up for all of you, you don't even KNOW!"

"We don't even WANT to know," confirmed Banette.

"But alas!" said Mew, pretending to ignore what Banette said. "One of you is not going to be taken on that journey. Because as usual, we need to eliminate one contestant from the running. So! Have you all cast your votes?"

Everyone was gathered up, including Alakazam and Honchkrow. The two of them seemed...very well. They had both recovered well from their conditions (though they each wore a few bandages here and there, just in case), but the real change was how they were carrying themselves. Alakazam was acting as if there was a huge weight off of his back, while Honchkrow seemed to be almost...casual. Toxicroak swore to the others that he heard Alakazam crack a joke as they entered the ceremony...and Honchkrow had LAUGHED. What had happened in that lava cave?

"Is everything...okay?" muttered Weavile. "Did you get hit hard by Honchkrow or something?"

Alakazam glanced at her, a smile on his face. "No...I believe we just realized it was more enjoyable to play for fun rather than play to win. Our feud is at an end."

Weavile gave him a surprised look. "Really? Like...she agreed?"

"Oh yes. I suppose it's boring without a rival and all, but maybe we can both play the game in peace."

Weavile didn't answer.

"Okay then...Krookodile and Bisharp have immunity, so you guys are safe first!"

The two Dark types walked up, Krookodile with a smile, Bisharp with none whatsoever. They took their blocks and returned to their seats.

"Banette...Luxray...Toxicroak...Noivern...Kabutops...Gliscor...you're all safe too!" said Mew, tossing out the various blocks, giving Banette a scowl. Banette blew a kiss in response.

"Medicham...Crobat...Weavile...," said Mew, passing out more blocks. "You're all safe as well."

As each name was called, Alakazam and Honchkrow looked less pleased and a bit more concerned. Honchkrow threw him a look, but Alakazam shrugged. Neither of them had any idea what was going on, but apparently the eleven other contestants had seen it fit to put them up for the chopping block.

"Honchkrow and Alakazam, two top tier threats hunting down the elusive Mr. B- and each other at the same time," said Mew, grinning. "Not gonna lie, I expected this moment to come a lot sooner, but you two managed to skate by for quite some time. But one of you is about to lose that...so...which will it be?"

Honchkrow gulped quietly, before her face hardened. Her eyes showed no fear. Alakazam smiled at her for a moment, before standing up.

"Cut this nonsense short. Let me get my things."

Honchkrow whirled to face her former foe. "What?"

"Dude, don't ruin it!" whined Mew.

"Wait, Alakazam is actually leaving?" asked Honchkrow, turning to look at everyone.

"Threats are eliminated...that's my style," said Bisharp dismissively.

"Yeah...but...but..."

"It's sort of funny, isn't it?" said Alakazam. "I did tell you Honchkrow- you wouldn't be the one to eliminate me."

"I...well...dat's not da point!" protested Honchkrow. "You...yer not so bad, ya know? I just...I-"

"I'm sure we'll have plenty of time to speak later," assured Alakazam gently. "But I need to go."

000

"Guy's a huge threat...not surprised, really," said Kabutops. "He's always quick to leave post-merge."

000

"Well, that's one big guy out of the way! Team Night is rising to the top!" shouted Toxicroak.

000

"I pulled it off," said Crobat, relieved. "Somehow...somehow I pulled it off..."

000

"Am I surprised? Not particularly," said Alakazam, examining one of his spoons. "I usually don't make it too far once the teams are divided, and even so...none of these contestants truly trust me. I suppose I envy Honchkrow in a way- now that she's opened up, she has all this time to make new relationships, friends, allies, whereas I...well, even my own father detests me."

He gave the camera a sad smile. "Still, Gothitelle will be waiting for me. The real question has yet to be asked, I suppose. Farewell everyone. I hope you can solve the mystery without my help...but I like to think you can."

000

Alakazam was sent adrift on a pool float, drifting aimlessly through the water.

"You'll get there eventually!" shouted Mew. Alakazam rolled his eyes and took out a book before he started pushing the float with his mind, humming quietly.

"Bye, Alakazam!" shouted Weavile. "We're gonna miss you!"

Alakazam gave a lazy wave in response.

"You know...you're kinda right...I'm gonna miss having him around, too," admitted Gliscor.

"Same here...I hope he knows that," said Noivern. "I feel bad if he left without knowing."

Nearby on the float, Alakazam allowed a small smile to grace his face.

000

Krookodile chuckled quietly, skipping rocks across the water. Alakazam was long gone, and Honchkrow hadn't said a word about it to anyone! Maybe she was afraid of looking weak. Or maybe she still wanted to strike more deals with him. Either way, the smartest player was on a one-way ticket home, and Krookodile had managed to slip past the radar again. Things were looking up. But he needed to be careful- Honchkrow saw him outplay Alakazam and might be wary to trust him. Perhaps she was the one that had to be next.

"Why do you do it?"

Krookodile jumped, dropping one of his rocks and spinning around to see Luxray staring at him. Krookodile's eyes narrowed. She didn't look pleased, but that crazy rage he was used to seeing from Luxray wasn't present either. That was almost more unsettling- angry people were easy to predict, but the moment someone became unreadable was when they were at their most dangerous. Krookodile didn't answer immediately, but then gestured to the rocks on the shore.

"Well, skipping rocks is pretty satisfying."

"You know what I mean. Why do you go out of your way to hurt other people to get ahead?"

Krookodile scoffed. "I don't see it as hurting others. I see it as just another rule of the game."

Luxray sighed. "You're smart. I can see that, you know that, everyone Bidoof's eyes in the sky can see that. And I think you know...I think you know that what you do and how you effect people is wrong. You lie, scheme, backstab, and sabotage, and you KNOW that it isn't right, but you still do it. Why? Why do you choose the path that's the most cruel and nasty to everyone around you?"

Krookodile turned an eye to focus on her. "I don't know, zap cat. Maybe, just maybe, I don't care?"

"If you didn't care what others thought of you, why did you get so defensive when we fought earlier?"

Krookodile opened his mouth, but no words came out. He just scowled. But after a moment, his aggressive posture relaxed and he fixed Luxray with a level look.

"Where I'm from, we don't show weakness. Weakness is a quick, easy end. You take what you want. You take whatever you can. That's how I've always been, and that's how I'll always be. There's not much of a choice. You play for fun. I play for need."

"There's a difference between enjoying yourself and being cruel for what you think are justified reasons," insisted Luxray. "If you had tried being good instead of jumping to your foul tricks, maybe everyone would've been more willing to understand you."

Krookodile shook his head. "I don't take chances like that."

"So you're just going to keep doing this? That's a sad way to go through life!" protested Luxray.

Krookodile turned away from the crashing waves and walked past her, shaking his head. "What else can I do?"

Without another word, he walked away. Luxray frowned after him, but she was unsure what to say.

000

Crobat sat alone on the mountaintop, agitated with himself. He had somehow managed to convince Bisharp to do exactly what he wanted, Honchkrow was safe, and Alakazam was gone. Everything had gone according to plan, right? Then why the hell was it bothering him so much?

Honchkrow had said nothing to him. Not yet, anyway. But it was strange...as if this...as if it wasn't the ending she wanted. As if she wasn't happy that he had managed to save her and boot out Alakazam. Where was she? She was off doing something and...jeez, he was stressed.

Crobat glanced down at the pack of cigars, complete with a lighter. He usually carried them for Honchkrow, but...he cracked open the box, holding up the lighter. He wasn't exactly sure which end he was supposed to light but...

"Quit messin' around with dat thing before ya hurt yourself," crowed a voice.

Crobat jumped and turned to see Honchkrow's large black body land next to him, fixing him with a disapproving look.

"It's a nasty habit. You don't want to pick dat shit up. Truth be told, I should try to quit."

Honchkrow sighed and grabbed Crobat's cigar and tossed it aside.

"...why are you here?" asked Crobat, looking a bit uncomfortable.

"Y'know what Alakazam told me? He told me dat I wouldn't be da one to send him home. And I hate to admit it, but he was right. It wasn't me. It was you."

"I guess," mumbled Crobat.

Honchkrow frowned. "Why did you save me? I had pushed you aside, pushed you away, went off on my own and you still tried to come through for me. I even made peace with Alakazam, but you hadn't."

"I wouldn't say I saved you," argued the bat.

"I heard Weavile talking about how you convinced Bisharp. You absolutely saved me."

"...you saved me before by eliminating Gengar. I wasn't happy about it, but you still did it for me. You did what you thought was best, just like you always had. And when Bisharp was trying to convince me that...you'd stab me in the back and send me home...I just...well...I thought he was wrong. Was he?"

"I would never do that. Not to you," said Honchkrow softly.

"I know. That isn't you."

There was a silence.

"I...I want to say I'm sorry. I wasn't mad because you wanted to have other friends, you're more dan welcome to do dat...I just thought you didn't believe I was good enough to help us win. I felt like you thought I was...weak," explained Honchkrow. "Or like I was holding you back from being happy-"

"You? Weak? I'd never think you were weak," said Crobat, shocked. "I just...don't want you to be lonely, you know? And I don't want to be lonely. We don't have to be alone together. We can be together among everyone. And sometimes I just want to show the world that you're not just my boss, you're my girlfriend."

Honchkrow let out a low grunt, wiping at one of her eyes. "You sure you want to do dat? You know what dey all tink of me."

"Opinions change. Look at how you befriended Alakazam."

Honchkrow gave a small smile. "Yeah...never woulda expected dat."

"So are...are we okay?" asked Crobat, hesitantly.

"...I guess we are," said Honchkrow. "I...I...you know I love you, right?"

Crobat smiled and planted a kiss on Honchkrow's beak. "I know. But keep saying it."

Honchkrow sighed. "Maybe after dis whole game is over...we can try to uh...well...y'know..."

"Socialize with others?" offered Crobat.

"Yeah, dat'll be our next operation," said Honchkrow, her tone brisk. She seemed to be quickly returning back to her old self. It was a nice change. Honchkrow pressed against Crobat- the warm feeling of her feathers was comforting. Crobat closed his eyes for a moment and smiled, before looking out at the moon.

"Of course, we still have a game to win."

"Of couse!" barked Honchkrow. "We can't let dis sappy stuff slow us down! We've got planning to do. Y'hear me?"

"Got it, babe."

Honchkrow blushed, but hid a smile. It was good. It was good to have him back.

"No slacking. I expect more out of you, yer da bat who kicked out Alakazam."

Crobat chuckled. "Okay, okay. We'll get to work in the morning."

000

Alakazam had seen the lights of the shoreline from far away, but he didn't expect the size of the entourage he received. His eyes stared at the crowd waiting for him. Cacturne, Gardevoir, Mismagius, Wooper, Diglett, Mamoswine, Dragonite, Lapras, and even players who didn't care for him too much, such as Scizor and Houndoom, were all there waiting. Gothitelle was at the head of the pack, beaming brightly at him. She hadn't cared that he couldn't save her, or that he didn't win. She was still here, waiting for him. But...why the others? Alakazam stepped onto the shore, a bit hesitant, looking at the crowd uncertainly.

"Is...is there a reason for this gathering?"

"Well...we'd heard that you sort of felt like you weren't a part of the gang," explained Wooper, smiling brightly. "And y'know, that's fine if you don't want it to be, but I mean...if you think you're ready to be a friend, we're ready to be your friends."

Alakazam looked at every face awkwardly, and for a moment, the genius seemed to fade away. A shy boy took Alakazam's place for only a second, before he heaved a deep sigh and gave a nod. A small smile graced his features.

"I...I would like that very much. Thank you my...friends."

"Thank Gothitelle- she's been making quite a case for you ever since she arrived," said Gardevoir, smiling.

"Gothitelle?" asked Alakazam, turning to face his girlfriend.

"Oui, guilty as charged," said Gothitelle, shrugging. "I suppose you weren't getting around to eet, were you? Anyone eez willing to be your friend, Alakazam, but you can't jus wait around for zem to decide on zeir own. You need to take ze steps as well."

"True, I suppose as usual, I waited too long to act," said Alakazam quietly. Alakazam...always looking, never leaping. Any move was calculated, any attempts had to be weighed before they were made. It was a logical and smart, but lonely existence...but...perhaps this time he could take a leap before analyzing the outcome. This time...he wouldn't wait to act. He cast a brief glance at Cacturne, who gave him the tiniest nod. The scarecrow was right. Now was as good a time as any.

"Actually, Gothitelle...I wanted to talk to you about that."

"Hmmm?" Gothitelle turned to see Alakazam on one knee. The scattered mutterings throughout the group hushed quickly at the sight. Alakazam took Gothitelle's hand into his own, smiling up at her...a bit nervously, in his mind.

"I'm...I'm not the most forward person. I'm not the warmest or kindest person, and yet...somehow, someway, I managed to find you. And then I fell in love with you, and even more amazingly, you loved me back. I was always bitter and critical of myself, but when you're around me...the world becomes so much brighter. So much more colorful, so vivid and full of life. And...I know now, more than ever before, that I always want you at my side. You're the most beautiful woman I have ever known, both on the inside and out and that's why..."

Gothitelle stared in utter shock as Alakazam pulled out a tiny black box. Flicking it open with his mind, a beautiful diamond ring was revealed. Gothitelle covered her mouth, her eyes welling up with tears.

"...I don't ever want to lose you. I'm tired of waiting to ask you this question, because I know how I feel. I want you to be with me forever. Will you marry me?"

"Oooooh!" whispered Froslass and Mismagius in hushed voices.

Gothitelle wasn't able to speak for a moment, but she rubbed her eyes before nodding vigorously. "Yes! Yes!"

Alakazam's eyes glowed as he lifted Gothitelle into his arms (though the smarter contestants saw the Psychic energy around Gothitelle- classy move Alakazam) before kissing her deeply, holding her tightly as if he would never let go. Gothitelle was still crying, but the smiles were clear on both Pokemon's faces. A loud applause erupted as everyone watched Alakazam and Gothitelle sway on the spot before he finally set her down. Alakazam's eyes were dry, but the raw love and emotion on his face was clear. The Psychic was blushing furiously, and despite all of his previous calculations, he didn't know if she'd actually say yes.

Gardevoir smiled at the newly-engaged couple, before motioning everyone around her. "Alright, everyone, we got to see the proposal. Let's give these two some privacy."

A low murmur of agreement rippled through the group as they walked away, heading back inside, leaving the two Psychics standing alone on the rocks. Alakazam let out a nervous chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck. He didn't really know what to do or say at this point.

"So...they have parties here every evening?"

"Oui, eet eez so much fun...but oh my gosh, I cannot believe eet!" said Gothitelle, jumping in excitement. "I am getting married!"

"I still can't believe you said yes," admitted Alakazam.

"Did you 'ave any doubts?"

"No, but imagining and hearing are two different things. Still...we do have a wedding to plan now, so that should take our time and energy up quite a bit."

"Leave zat to me, mon amour," said Gothitelle, grinning happily. "Oh, I can just imagine ze most beautiful gothic ceremony..."

"Well, have at it," said Alakazam, chuckling. "It's not like I really have anyone to invite other than the people from this show, so I suppose most of it will be your guests anyway. Feel free to do what you'd like."

Gothitelle's smile faded away into an expression of uncertainty. She stopped for a moment, before reaching into the folds of her dress and pulling out an envelope. Alakazam's eyes glanced down at it and back to Gothitelle in confusion as he took the piece of paper into his hand. It had his name written on it.

"What is this?"

"I...eet came to zis address while you were still on ze show...but...eet eez from your father."

Alakazam froze, looking at the envelope with a new sense of foreboding. "My father?"

Gothitelle gave a nod. She eyed the envelope hesitantly.

"You know, you do not 'ave to open eet eef you do not wish to-"

"I might as well get it over with," said Alakazam, sighing. He carefully tore open the envelope and unfolded a long letter, with Gothitelle reading over his shoulder. The scrawl was messy and there were some words crossed out here and there, but Alakazam recognized his father's handwriting.

Dear Son,

I've been meaning to write this to you for a long time. I don't know if you're still on the show or not by the time this reaches you, but if you've won, congratulations. If not, congratulations anyway. Even if you didn't get first place, you have something that's worth a lot more.

Gothitelle is a fine young lady. I could tell that from the moment I met her, even if the rest of the evening didn't go so well. More importantly, it seems she's the right kind of girl for you. I've been watching the show and I've seen the look in your eyes when you look at her, and I can see how she looks at you. She'll say yes, Alakazam. Don't wait a moment longer than you have to.

But there's something else I've been meaning to tell you. I wanted to take the time and tell you that I'm sorry. I know I wasn't the greatest dad. I had a hard time even caring for you- sometimes I'd look at you and hear you and all I'd think of was your mother. I didn't know how to deal with my grief in the best way. I wanted to make you strong and successful, but I was too tough on you- and you still managed to turn out far better than I would've expected with a dad like me. I'm not asking for your forgiveness. It's up to you if I've earned that or not. But I want you to know that I'm sorry and that I'm proud of you. So proud of you. You've become a man that any father wishes that he could have. Not sure if I even deserve the honor.

I know it's been a while since we've talked, but if you ever want to come by to Saffron City, my door is always open. If not, I hope you and Gothitelle live a happy life together.

Love,

Dad

Gothitelle's eyes slowly moved over the page, and over time, her concerned look slowly relaxed into a warm smile as she read the words. She wrapped an arm around Alakazam, holding him close. He was completely silent.

"I told you. He loves you."

Alakazam didn't say a word, but he began to tremble. He bit his lip and the paper rustled as his hands began to shake. Gothitelle looked at him, a bit surprised but still smiling. Alakazam almost seemed surprised himself as the tears start to fall, sniffling quietly as he cried, his tears spattering onto the letter in his hand. Gothitelle wrapped her arms around and pulled him in. Alakazam continued to cry, shaking helplessly in her arms.

"I...I never expected..."

"I know," soothed Gothitelle, smiling.

"I thought...I thought after this long...I shut him out for so long..."

"Don't be upset with yourself. He isn't."

000

And that's all folks! Sorry it took so long to get out.

A big maze from Vileplume. This challenge kind of evolved over time to make it a bit better, but I took a return to NOT EVERYTHING NEEDS TO HAPPEN ON SCREEN in this chapter. Which is nice.

Alakazam and Honchkrow duke it out and actually...bond with one another in a sense? In addition, we have some good happen to both of them in this chapter- Honchkrow and Crobat are back together and Alakazam, though eliminated, gets what he's always wanted- friendship, Gothitelle to be his wife, and most importantly, the love of his father. I think it's been clear from the start that Alakazam didn't care so much about winning money or competitions, but I think with him finally receiving the affection and acknowledgement he craved for so long, he's in a much better place. If that's not a victory, what is?

Fun Fact: Alakazam was originally going to have a crippling addiction to ice cream and cereal(even as a Kadabra), but it never panned out. He was just never in a lot of eating scenes prominently.

Talking of character development, I'm really happy that we got an eye inside Toxicroak- he may be frantic and a bit scattered, but I always find it interesting to go in the mind of not the alliance leader, but the subordinate. Bisharp and Toxicroak took the competition by storm this episode. And on a secondary note, we get a bit more insight into Krookodile as well. Who knows what'll happen next?

Well, I do, but still.

Next Episode: It's an all out brawl as the players dive into an unknown environment and shoot for the top. With certain groups emerging as power teams, threatening players are at an all time. One contestant is confronted by another, while another contestant receives an entirely different confrontation. Tensions rise as one contestant continues to test their wits and strength against all odds. In the end, will it be the strongest contestant who is sent packing?

Alakazam: Yes, yes...send a review, if you would be so kind.