Rachel Lacroix's Story

Radegast waved to the guard as friendly as he could make it. “Just need to ask something, is all.” He projected the psychic message to said guard, though he had a feeling none of the friendliness would do any favours for the group at-large.

Entry didn’t seem to go so well the moment he and Touko walked in, however. “Wait! We just-“ Radegast grimaced as the receptionist made a rapid retreat in response to two obscenely strong trainers and a figure in a suit of armour. Uh-oh…

In truth, he didn’t think this through. On one hand, striking swift and striking hard guaranteed that the information they were looking for wouldn’t be so well-guarded. On the other hand, if this turned up lemons it wouldn’t do their side any favours at all. If anything, this entire stunt was a calculated risk that wasn’t calculated at all.

With a quick fish through his leg satchel, Radegast produced a small item which he held in his Limiter-clad hand. He then headed further inside as well. If it all went south, he had a contingency plan at least. Focus. Nendel ran this place and he was murdered, they shouldn’t have any loyalty to that Diancie… right?

A terrible feeling began to form in his gut. It reminded him of the time he first saw Leopold, the Man in the Weird Suit. The lab coats started to remind him of something awful. Oh Arceus… This is that stupid laboratory all over again! What the hell is up with this region? Where the hell are my friends? He wondered as his heartrate started to increase. Outside of the armour, Radegast seemed unreadable. I just want to hang out with my friends again. What the hell am I even doing? but his calm only hung on by a thread.

He grit his teeth. Wait, why am I doing this? What's happening? No. Focus, dammit! Remember why you’re doing these things. Remember who’s waiting for you. With a psychically projected voice, he asked to the employees at-large, “Hey all. Sorry to intrude, but uh, I just wanna understand what exactly is up with that Diancie queen stuff.”

"Hmm. That's a nice big window over there, but it doesn't face outside. Maybe it's a window into another part of the building, like a balcony or some kind of display?"

Her curiosity piqued, Touko let the two boys stumble their way through conversations while she went over to the observation deck. First rule of physical penetration: Act like you belong. No need to be sneaky if you can just assert yourself enough to catch the guards napping.

They're just guards and janitors. Why would they know anything about what goes on back there? Rachel might know, but it's too hard to get anything useful out of her most of the time. Best check to see what this observation deck oversaw.

This approach also had the neat side benefit of not having to effectively deputize James and Radegast. They didn't seem like the sort to take orders, least of all from her. As refreshing as it was to just be treated as another Trainer, this occasion called for a chain of command. She let out a small, audible chuckle to herself at her own cleverness before peering down into the labs.

I wonder why that receptionist was so spooked.

Touko would see down into the chamber. At the bottom, a Mienshao was strapped into a contraption of some nature that kept its arms and legs suspended in midair. Two scientists wearing gear that would be fit for hazmat conditions were preparing some kind of experiment, their masks giving off an entirely unfriendly vibe. The Mienshao seemed to be in considerable duress but was unable to escape. Then a third scientist entered the room. Proceeding to a small console on the wall, he pressed a button that began letting a dark purple/blue mist into the chamber. Turning to face the Mienshao, he pulled his mask on and sealed his own suit.

--

Rachel was the first to reply to James.

Well, she didn't have anything in hand when she came running to me, so I don't think you gave her any scares. She was Astonished by your appearance, though. As for looking around, you aren't allowed to have even a small look around. So don't ask about a big look around either. I can't let you have either.

She seemed intrigued when Shirona mentioned the character in a lab coat. However, seeing Radegast come in next, she gave a deadpan smile as she listened to his comment.

There isn't anything up here related to the new Grand Champion. She simply is the Grand Champion now. At least as far as I comprehend our own rules. They are pretty dated. As in old, not in having relations with others. It is nice to see you again, Radegast. I know who you are, you know. You were of particular interest to my father. You might still have been if he still existed. He doesn't though. Someone made sure of that. So I am here to see to the Aftermath.

Rachel returned to her deadpan neutrality.

My father was close to me, in a way. I do miss him. Though my position as Champion of Kalos prevents me from taking over his work, my siblings will figure it out among themselves and his closest aides. In any case, I'd recommend that you all leave us in peace to mourn. Whatever that entails for us. Likely crying later. Or maybe eating. Maybe both crying and eating. Is that what they mean by stress eating? Perhaps.

--

Before Touko could see anything else, the two scientists on break stood and ran toward her.

Scientist 1:

Hey! This isn't public showcase hours! Time for you to leave. Champions not exempt!

Scientist 2:

Sorry. This isn't personal, but you can't be here right now. Even if you're the Champion!

It was clear they were ready to battle for her leaving if needed as they reached for their Poke Balls, and the Sewaddle reared itself up to try and look scary.

--

Rachel looked aside blankly but made no further actions toward Radegast and James beyond turning to face Touko as the scientists approached the Unovan Champion.

What will you do, Touko? Your choice here will dictate the course of our evening together. You've no doubt witnessed now the things the public never observed of my father. Not everyone would approve. I never know what to think about his projects, so I usually don't. It makes it easier. If you want, best the scientists, or leave. I won't interfere... Yet...

Rachel seemed incredibly conflicted, but her face hid any signs of it.

James heard Rachel out with a calm expression. He figured she wouldn't let them pass. If only he could use sleep powder or something.

"Yeah, well I still would like to know about what you all do here considering it was your father who toted the diance and gave us directions here."

James saw the scientists run to Emiko and yell about restricted access. Then after Rachel's comment, he felt that the nice guy act wasn't going to cut it. Normally he would pull the act of getting in front of Emiko but he knows she can handle herself. Instead he drops his attitude and gives a question.

"If what you got down there is so important you are willing to challenge a person you know you have no Hope's of winning against, and according to your words, deplorable, then I have to ask... is it even legal? I'm not idly standing by this either, you now have me to fight as well. Shirona."

"Ready."

James was aware Emiko needed no help, but he was ready to intercept in case more show up or if Rachel gets interested.

Touko couldn't help but let out a hearty chuckle. "Really? Oh my god, this is just like old times. The double battle bit is new, though. I'll take you both on! For that poor Mienshao!"

There was a wide grin on her face as she sent out Volcarona and Excadrill. The lab coats did kind of remind her of the things that Team Plasma members used to wear over their silly suits of armor...a thought that excited her all the more.

"Time to kick it old school."

Radegast’s eye twitched at Rachel’s proclamation. “Radegast?” He shook his visored head, "Doesn't ring any bells, buddy-”

Radegast paused as he noticed Touko staring into the observation window. Something seemed troubling, so he headed after Touko to get a glimpse at what she could see in the central chamber. Seeing the Mienshao alone was enough to make him grit his teeth, but the purple-blue gas struck him as something entirely different.

Should I break the glass? Reggie asked in his mind.

Ye... Radegast’s mind paused for a microsecond. Under his helmet, Radegast’s eyes widened and his mouth curled in a nasty frown. The gemstone embedded into the Limiter began to spark wildly, but nothing else seemed to happen. He was conflicted over the potential of the gas reaching them if the observation window was shattered, but decided he could blow the gasses away from them with an Icy Wind. Yes.

Reggie temporarily unfused, and the blade swerved and pressed the tip against the glass. A flash of energy from the blade itself indicated some sort of power many who were superstitious would call “divine”. The so-called Sacred Sword pressed inward, and the cracks formed all across the observation. The blade pulled away, and the shield slammed against the window. The sudden force blew the larger shards into tiny pebbles that showered into the chamber, clinking harmlessly against lab equipment, the protective suits of the scientists within, and the Mienshao- who certainly could take worse punishment than tiny pieces of glass sprinkling.

At Touko’s proclamation for battle, Radegast stepped to her side as Reggie fused once more. He held his action in the event a strike would be launched towards Touko, whether it came from the two she began to fight, or from anyone within the observation room. With his sword hand, he readied himself to blow the gases away from them if it got close.

"Old-school..." he repeated, as he recalled certain aspects of his school life. The memories began to fuel his willingness to fight as he made parallels to this lab.

At the sound of the shattering glass, James would look over and wonder why in the name of Arceus did that happen.

"Woah woah! Calm down there buddy. It's just two small fry and a leaf bug. No need to go smashing windows in anger here! The less damage we do here, the better."

"As this is a lab, it likely has shutters for occasions where observation glass is broken. If there is anything dangerous in there it will activate those safety measures. This is the main lobby after all. Still it is curious as to why he would break it..."

The Gardevoir could sense the turmoil of emotions coming from Radegast and Emiko, put couldn't make anything more of it, simply assuming it has ties to the coming battle. Shirona wasn't about to move and held her ground in case something happened by chance of others showing up.

Parem'Zel attempts to stand to his feet, taking a deep breath of fresh air.

Parem'Zel Rubs his head in confusion as he gazes around

The two Trainers facing down Touko seemed a bit intimidated but nonetheless sent their Pokemon forth; a Cottonee and the Sewaddle both readying for a fight they truly had no chance of winning. Though the scientists gave orders to the Pokemon, it was quite clear the two were outmatched, and likely whatever Touko did would take them down in one shot, and sure enough, it came to pass that after a single Bug Buzz and Iron Head, the two were down. As the two Scientists began reaching for another Poke Ball each, there was the sound of glass shattering.

Briefly distracted by Radegast's response of her having guessed wrong, she didn't see the armored boy move to break the glass window. Hearing the glass shatter, Rachel's eyes widened in a rare display of emotion, and she quickly ran to a lever on one of the side walls. Grabbing it in her teeth, she pulled it down, activating the emergency alarms. As an automated voice began declaring warnings, a large fan inside the testing chamber would activate, pulling the purple mist up towards the vent the fan blocked.

That was not the end of it, however, as the Mienshao managed to break the restraints it was being held in, apparently being emboldened by seeing the Trainers trying to help (in its perspective). Without anything holding it back, it quickly took up a fighting stance and proceeded to attack and destroy the machine pushing the mist into the room, allowing a larger plume of it to explode throughout the testing chamber uncontrolled.

With the explosion of mist, blast shutters would emerge to block the windows and the locks on all the doors were disengaged. The Scientists, the Janitor, and the Secretary, all fled the lab at this time, though Rachel remained, looking aside with her usual neutral face, though she seemed somewhat concerned.

"Well then.... That certainly is one way of causing a problem...."

"Shutters are up and the doors are disengaged with the evacuation protocall. If there was ever a time to get in, this is it."

"Good point but... won't it close up on us?"

"We'll find a key card somewhere. Can always have Fafnir shake them down for one."

"Point taken. Hear that Armoured dude? Emiko? Let's head in now while we can!"

James Made for the northern door while waiting for responses, ignoring Rachel.

James’ call out to Radegast’s decision to break the glass fell on numbed ears. As the glass fell, Radegast’s mind was a whirlwind. He wanted to run, he wanted to fight, he wanted to stick with Touko, he wanted to see his friends again, he wanted to drop everything and just… go… somewhere. But he saw this suffering, this… whatever the hell this so-called “science”was. It couldn’t be any good if it produced things of madness like that Diancie. When he was proclaimed an abomination, what does that make this eerie purple stuff that sent him danger signals?

His heart rate raced more and more, but he kept the panic attack under wraps. Radegast grit his teeth to try to clear his mind. I just need time to think… Neither time, nor his enemies, will give him time, but this Mienshao down in the chamber was right in front of him. There’s no time, and there are choices to be made.

I have to be me above all else. Remember what only your friends understood. Remember why you ran away.

The gem on the Limiter sparked more obviously, which Radegast finally noticed. As his gaze moved to the sight in bewilderment, the sparking stopped entirely.

No, forget about that, Radegast thought as he adjusted his stance. His attention was then caught by a smash in the chamber. He turned around just in time to see the Mienshao get engulfed with gas billowing from a machine the Mienshao just broke.

He didn’t even get to call out “No!” before the shutters slapped into place.

It was then that he saw James heading toward the northern door. He then noticed that many of the doors that were previously lit with red lights were now lit green. With a glance back to Touko’s… competent opponents… Radegast grit his teeth once more. “You got this, Touko!” He encouraged with a determined voice, then he bolted towards one of the unlocked doors- the sister hallway leading further in from James.

You’re not going to guard? Reggie asked.

“We cover more ground, and we give these guys less opportunity to lock up what they’ve got,” Radegast replied, “Though I wanna take this place down, We gotta keep the fighting at a minimum. Worst-case scenario, this Diancie actually comes here.”

Can’t afford that, Reggie admitted. This black purple mist and that wretched weather were not familiar concepts even to the ancient, well-learned blade. Without firm knowledge, confidence in battle was simply unfounded.

Shit. Shutters over the hole in the window. Well, there went her brilliant smash and grab plan. Time to do this the hard way...and that Mienshao was running out of time as that gas was filling the room.

Breaking into a sprint, Touko's powerful legs, honed by years of biking and hiking across the region and beyond, pounded down the corridor to a door at the end. The plan was to look for where the people were evacuating from, go against the flow, and hopefully find a computer terminal that someone had left themselves logged in. It wasn't likely that she would find the way down to the lab in question, but damn it, she had to try.

"There has to be an exit sign here somewhere...I'll just go the opposite way. Gotta get deeper, into that lab." Then it hit her. Baka ne. There would probably be signs telling the staff which way through the halls to places like that. With all the doors unlocked, she could just follow those. Anyone who got in her way would get the business.

"Shirona, let's get going," James said as he entered the door on the ride side of the north wall since there were two. He saw Radegast bolt for the other one and nodded to himself. Knowing how general labs are, these two are likely just observation or service hallways but going in each one will help just in case his assumption is wrong.

"No way in hell are we going to be able to just calmly walk into this place, be ready for anything guys..."

James started running for the other end of the hallway, taking glances around him to catch clues of any sort, vents, glass, anything that could work to his favour for hiding or escape routes if things get rough or they get trapped.

Iessi Uoduoyh hi

Having lost the fight, Janice returned the Slaking. Before it could even move, the Haxorus drew power from its mystical dancing and let loose a powerful attack that could not be resisted. Looking aside, Janice's heated glare sent her scientist partner fleeing the building. She rolled her eyes and addressed James and Touko.

Mmmph! Damnit! You looked so awfully weak, and yet you broke them all! Hmph! Clearly, I was going too easy on you.

Janice adopted a fighting stance of her own.

Then I'll show you! I'll hit you with something even stronger!

Before she could act, however, Rachel's voice cut in.

That's enough, Janice. Today's a day we simply write-out of the books. You must retreat so Lovrina can analyze and recount the information she has salvaged. There is no use defending this facility any further.

Rachel walked into the room, approaching James and Touko. Her oversized sleeves were hanging loosely at her side while her deadpan look gave no indication of what she was thinking at that moment.

But, Raaaaaachel! They need to squashed like the bugs they are!

Retreat now, Janice. You can't win against a Champion and someone who can stand on par with one.

Furious, Janice stormed out of the building. Even her walking speed was fast, and she gave off an intensive air as she left. Rachel gave a neutral smile, perfect in revealing absolutely no information, equivalent to her deadpan look, while simultaneously giving off an incredibly smug attitude.

I fixed her. For now. Lovrina, as well as your companion, Dreads, have already left the building too. I'd recommend you both leave as well. I've forwarded some documents of interest to you, Touko. My father saved logs on his Holo Caster that I was able to collect. Check your Holo Caster messages when you have the chance. If you have any extra questions, Xtransceiver me.

Shaking her head, Rachel raised what was her arms to her side. The sleeves of her jacket awkwardly hung limply at a point just above where the elbows should be. Her smile changed to one of a fake genuineness.

I only shared those documents with you so that you can provide us with new insights based on your observations, as my father enjoyed collecting third-party opinions through their witness. I apologize that I cannot offer you any actual assistance in overthrowing the plans set in motion by my father's experiment, as I cannot betray his trust as his daughter. I also cannot recommend that you take extensive notes on Logs 6, 18, and 44, and I entirely advise against searching the locations mentioned in Log 15. Definitely, do not bring any of this to Dreads' attention under any circumstance, and as far as anyone is concerned, you know for a fact that I am certainly involved in it all.

Was this a coded method of sharing information?

--

Outside, Radegast received an answer from the girl hiding with him as she now sat awfully close to his side.

It's absolute and delicious to think about if what the scientists said is correct! Tee hee hee~! She's untouchable without having an advantage on her, and even then, her defenses are monstrous to overcome... Hee hee~! Not to mention she is said to heal off any damage she does take, and she is completely unaffected by effects that do not directly do damage to her... Tee hee hee~! Hee hee~!

As she shared, she seemed to be resisting an urge to place her hands on his armor. She continued speaking.

Hee hee~! She also gets stronger every time she faints an enemy, and she can manipulate the weather with shadow energy to a degree stronger than expected. Her power also stems from powerful structures called Crystal Obelisks. They supposedly are constructed in various locations across Ruula, according to the scientists... Whoa! Tee hee hee~! She is also apparently permanently Mega Evolved, and she can access Z-Power and can enter Burst Mode... So said the scientists before I killed them! Tee hee hee~!

At this time, a scientist fled the building and area by having an Abra teleport him. About a minute later, a girl also retreated, though unlike the scientist, she released a Pidgeot and took to the skies on it.

Despite this, the woman he was with looked away momentarily with a slight blush. Her enamored look of astounded awe and absolute psychopathy couldn't properly tear itself away from the armored savior she sat beside, not at least for more than a few seconds. Her hands lightly reached forward to feel his armor, taking in the sensation. She didn't know who this man was, but she could already feel a kinship of some kind with him, twisted as the feeling and idea was. A knight in shining armor perhaps? She was also sharing so loosely with him, a stranger. She felt odd inside.

"Of course, Champion Rachel." Touko gave a nod, affording her the respect consummate with her station. Now was the time to be building bridges, not burning them. "I shall take your recommendations under account and begin my analysis immediately."

As if on cue, her Xtranceiver started ringing! The brunette picked it up right away.

"Moshi-moshi....What? Lenora's being called to the League?...And there's a challenger waiting?...Understood. I'll be there right away."

She turned to Rachel, James, and Shirona. "Thank you for your help, everyone, but duty calls. James...you are kind to your Pokemon, even to a fault. The time for war is approaching. I know you have a keen mind in there. You must learn to accept making compromises and sacrifices...a wise person once told me that if one side had all the answers, there would be no argument. As such...seeing as I keep running into you, James, consider yourself deputized. I got official business to take care of, but after I take this challenger, meet me at the Unova League and we'll talk details."

Among the million thoughts swimming through her head, one shot through like a clarion call. Don't you fucking dare die on me, Radegast...wherever you are.

After the battle, James sees Janice ready a combat stance and he jumps in front of Skadi and gets into one himself. His was more of a street style, nothing refined. He was not letting this chick win with dirty tactics, even though he disliked the idea about hitting a girl. Luckily, he didn't have to go against his gut because Rachel stepped in and waved her off. Relaxing, he returned Skadi to her ball and turned to listen to the Kalosian Champ. And soon after, Emiko started talking to him.

"Meet you at the league? Augh, I didn't buy a map. Dammit. We'll follow you, alright? Shirona, how you handling the paralyze? Need a berry?"

"I'll be fine. Just get Asuka up and we can head off"

With a nod, James brings Asuka out, who didn't look like she could stand very well. James took out an herb from his back and Asuka looked a little downtrodden at it but nodded weakly and ate it. Within moments the bitterness perked her back up. With some coughing. James returned her to her ball afterwords.

"Sorry about that, Asuka. I'll get some poffins when we get to the league. We're good to go, Emiko. Let's head for the League. I'll wait in the lobby, and Rachel, thank you for the info. We'll keep you out of things."