Post by Ghost on Nov 14, 2008 8:27:54 GMT -5
Chapter 27: The Curse of the Fire Emblem
The Captain of the Black Knight’s army stood upon the tiny hill directly in front of the line of tents. He observed the few remaining men at his disposal on the plain below him, as they scrambled around the camp, broken and defeated. The Black Knight, on the brink of death, had been placed inside the largest tent. His torso was still bleeding profusely as his breathing became labored. He lay there hoping for something, anything that would save him from this disgrace. That bird that had defeated him, those wretched lords, and the puppet Geno, who had only given him a portion of power, his captain who refused him the honor of dying on the field of battle, must all pay. Silently, his soul screamed for vengeance as his body became colder by the second. His heart beating slowly, Black Knight closed his eyes still hopeful, still yearning for some chance at life. Outside the tent, a single solder ran up to the captain.
Captain: “What is it soldier?”
Soldier: “Sir, the party that was sent to the castle is approaching.”
Captain: “Excellent, tell them to hasten their steps. I wish to see if the word is true about the Fire Emblem. We could use it to our advantage.”
The soldier nodded as he ran down the hill towards the approaching party on the horizon. The captain was deep in thought as he watched the oncoming men. His ponderings switched from his leader’s failure, to bleak hopes for his men’s future. There must be something they could do rather than die out in the wilderness and the Fire Emblem could either aid them, or seal their doom. Most of the men stopped and watched as the small party ran up the hill and stood before the Captain. Each man showed the small spoils they had stolen. One man held coins and jewels, another presented expensive purple cloths, another heaving well-crafted weoponary. Although these items were of great value, the Captain kept glancing back toward the single man in the back. After each soldier in the forground had shown the Captain their goods, the single man in the back stepped forward. This soldier did not carry large items, but rather a small wooden chest. He knelt to the ground, and opened the chest as he lifted it into the air. Nestled on a small pillow was the large red stone, the Fire Emblem.
Captain: “Thi…this is it?”
Soldier: “Yes sir, one of a few, although we are unsure as to which this is, and the power it holds. It could house anything from a small amount of additional power, to the ability to cause the end of the world.”
Captain: “Well then we must handle it carefully until we know what it can do. Were you seen?”
Soldier: “Unfortunately, yes. A pair of their guards spotted us, but they were disposed of before they could call for backup. We hid the bodies in the treasure room where we found the Fire Emblem, and ran out as fast as we could.”
Captain: “Imbeciles! Despite how well you may have hidden them, you did so in the treasure room, the one room that multitudes of guards are sure to patrol. If they don’t already know this thing is gone, they will soon enough. It doesn’t matter now; what’s done is done. Put it with the rest of our goods. I have some thinking to do, and then I wish to address the men.”
The soldiers made their way toward the right-most tent along the line. Each placed their findings inside the tent and made their way back to the camp. The soldier with the Fire Emblem, however, remained before the Captain.
Soldier: “Sir, Where is the Black Knight?”
Captain: “Why do you ask?”
Soldier: “I thought it would be fitting for him to see our greatest finding for himself, as it was he who commissioned us to raid the castle.”
Captain: “That is kind of you, but completely unnecessary. We lost the battle due to his overconfidence and trust in the puppet’s power. Both failed miserably, and we dragged him off the battlefield to die alone in his tent. Such a fool should not be allowed the honor of dying on the battlefield. Place the box with the rest of the treasure and be on your way. Dismissed!”
The soldier, knowing it best not to argue, closed the lid to the box and walked away from the Captain’s presence. The Captain began to pace, his mind racing with decisions once more. Quickly arriving at the conclusion that pacing in the same spot within the camp was not of any aid, he grasped ahold of his sword and began to walk away from the camp, believing that the fresh air away from the men would clear his head. The solder grasping hold of the chest contining the Fire Emblem continued to look over his shoulder as the Captain disappeared down the slope and out of sight. Glancing quickly around him, the soldier found there to be no man nearby. He stood for a moment, nervous about the decision he was about to make, then jumped for the Black Knight’s Tent. As he entered, the smell of blood engulfed his nostrils. He crept forward towards the black armored body lying on the ground before him. His steps were slow as he made his was around to the Black Knight’s side where he knelt down with the box still in hand. Suddenly, the Black Knight gasped a large breath of air, startling the soldier. Gaining his composure once more, he spoke to his master.
Soldier: “Sir, can you hear me?”
There was no response.
Soldier: “Master, Is there anything I can do to help? You don’t have to respond if you don’t want to. Save your strength. I wish there was something I could do to help. All I can do is to confirm that our mission was successful. We have brought back several items of value, but the most important is here in my hand. I’ll open it for you if you have the strength to look.”
The soldier placed the chest upon the ground, opened it, and pulled out the Fire Emblem’s pillow, placing it on the ground before the Black Knight’s helmet. The Emblem began to glow slightly, unnoticed by the soldier. The Black Knight opened his eyes and beheld the jewel.
BK: “It….can’t…….be…..it’s…..”
Soldier: “One of the Fire Emblems, yes. It was fairly easy to take since Marth had his entire army fighting ours. It cost a couple of slit throats from their side, but that’s all. I shall leave it here with you. May it bring you some comfort in in your….well…”
The Black Knight slowly lifted his head to observe the soldier. He stared into his eyes before collapsing back to the ground.
BK: “You…..shall be…….remembered.”
The soldier stood up and walked out of the tent leaving the Black Knight alone to stare at the Fire Emblem. It seemed to glow even more brightly than before. Slowly inching his arm towards the gem, it began to shine brigher and brigher. Finally, he grasped ahold of the emblem, and a rush of energy surged through his body as the stone shone brilliantly. A voice could be heard inside his head.
Voice: “At last, I have found the one who can free me from my prison.”
BK: “….who…”
Voice: “There is no need for audible words; you can use your inner monologue to converse with me. I can see you are mortally injured, which means I do not have much time to address you. Are you willing to hear me? I can offer you life.”
BK (thoughts): “I’m listening.”
Voice: “Many years ago, I was a powerful ruler over this land; a god. I ruled with an iron fist for many years and was eventually summoned to a council for the gods on another world. However, my companions did not agree with my practices and betrayed me, banishing me within this stone, this Fire Emblem for all of eternity. I pondered often of a way to escape. I used my might to attack the stone from the inside to no avail, but I knew there must be a way. Most devices such as this have a hidden way, a back door, so to speak, of reversing the effects. I began to think of what it would be. Suddenly, it came to me that my actions upon the humans of this world were what they condemned me for, so it must be a human who could release me. I find that I was correct in this matter, as you have been the only contact I have had these many years.”
BK(thoughts): “How can you help me?”
Voice: “Releasing me from this prison will be most beneficial to you. For my guess is that you must give yourself entirely to the power of the stone. Fuse yourself with it, and we shall be as one. You would still have your soul and your mind, but I would be the dominant over your body. As I am a god I cannot die, meaning therefore you cannot die.”
A small surge of energy pulsed through the Black Knight’s skull as the stone shown more brilliant.
Voice: “I can see that you too have been betrayed and defeated by several individuals. Together, we can have our revenge upon them. We shall reign superior as the puppet, the bird, the human lords, your captain, and the gods of the council who enslaved me cower before us. Give of yourself unto me, and I promise we shall have our day of glory!”
BK(thoughts): “What is your name?”
Voice: “I have many names, but the most used is the Lord of Fire.”
BK: “Lord…..of…..Fire……I…….give…………myself…..to………….you.”
Suddenly, the Fire Emblem gave off a blinding light as the air around it turned into flame. The Black Knight’s body rose into the air as the fusion process began.
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Meowth: “What’s taking them so stinkin long? We pulled that lever twenty minutes ago, and noone has shown up yet. Rayquaza isn’t going to last that long.”
Absol: “I understand your hurry, but several of them are traveling a long distance it’s going to take some time. Besides, Rayquaza is a lot tougher than you think. He can hold his own long enough for us to assemble.”
Meowth: “Yeah, well you better be right.”
The seconds seemed to creep by as they waited on the members of the council. Shorlty after, Absol noticed the form of Lugia flying towards them. Both pokemon ran towards the window as Lugia began to fly low for a landing.
Meowth: “Lugia! It’s about time someone showed up. There’s big problems.”
Lugia: “Such as a large purple dragon fighting Rayquaza? I already know, I just left the scene. Latios and Latias were sent back to warn us but they were too late. They are helping Rayquaza now.”
Absol: “What about Mewtwo and the others?”
Lugia: “Noone knows, but we have to take care of this first. I think I hear more coming.”
Lugia was right, shortly after his arrival, Moltres, Zapdos, Articuno, Suicune, Raikou, Entei, Ho-oh, and Cresselia appeared. It had been almost an hour since the beacon had been lit, but thankfully several more legends had appeared including Kyogre, Groudon, all four Regis, Mesprit, Uxie, Azelf, Shaymin and Manaphy. Even Heatran and Darkrai, who rarely made an appearance, materialized before their eyes.
Lugia: “Greetings Everyone, I believe we are only waiting for Giratina, but I’m sure we can fill him in at some point later. He may not even be in our world to see the beacon. We have called this emercency meeting today for a very important purpose.”
Meowth: “Oh for cryin out loud. There’s some big purple dragon attacking us just like that Fox said, so let’s get to action now!”
Cresselia: “What’s this?”
Zapdos: “Details, give us details.”
Lugia: “Patience Meowth, we’re getting there. Yes, the news that Fox McCloud had brought us before is true as I and Rayquaza had feared. There is an extremely powerful dragon fighting Rayquaza as we speak. I’m not sure how long the battle has lasted, but Rayquaza is showing serious signs of fatigue. Luckily Latios and Latias have returned and are helping him keep the creature at bay. Look for yourself over to the East.”
Every pokemon within the council’s room turned their eyes toward the East. Instantly each of them saw as their friend and defender, Rayquaza was fighting off Ridley whilst Latios and Latios sped around them.
Manaphy: “Weren’t Latios and Latias with Mewtwo? What happened to them?”
Absol: “I asked the same, but there seem to be no answers.”
Groudon: “Looks like we need to destroy this thing first!”
Lugia: “Exactly my thoughts.”
Heatran: “This shouldn’t be too hard. All us legends against one dragon.”
Voice: “You all assume too much as usual.”
Every head began to scan the room for the source of the strange voice ringing through their ears. No pokemon had spoken before them. Suddenly, two Medichams appeared before the entryway to the council. Both pokemon were holding a fighting stance as if guarding something oncoming. Just as quickly as the Medicham appeared, multitudes of abra, and kadabera began appearing in all vacant spots of the floor. Confused and slightly outraged by this behaviour, the legends began to talk amongst themselves till one of the Medicham spoke.
Medicham: “Pokemon Council Members, we present to you our leader, Alakazam.”
Both Medicham stepped aside as Alakazam used his psychic powers to float into the center of the room. Blaziken was following closely.
Blaziken: “Hey Meowth, I’m back!”
Meowth: “Just where in the hell have you been?”
Alakazam raised one spoon in the air and used his psychic abilites to place Meowth seated upon the ground.
Alakazam: “Silence, Feline. I shall explain everything. I am Alakazam, the leader of the Underground Psychic Network. We are a large group comprising of many psychic pokemon as well as a few select others who have earned membership into our group. Your own Celebi is one of us. As I’m sure many of you are unaware of my background as well as the Network’s I shall explain this also.
“Many years ago, I was the most powerful psychic known on this planet. I was well respected amongst pokemon, and what few men I entrusted. Professor Oak was one such man. Then one day, scientists found DNA of a mew and began their cruel expiraments. Mewtwo was born from these expiraments. I turned a blind eye hoping that their expirament would fail miserably, but they progressed further than I had originally anticipated. The infant Mewtwo was much stronger than any other clones they had produced. I kept a close eye on him until the day he destroyed the research lab. At that point I took to a cave near Cerulean City for meditation amd preparation for the event I knew to come eventually. Surely enough, Mewtwo was drawn to my power. He boasted of being the most powerful pokemon in the world, and wished to dispose of his opposition to create his own army for revenge against the human race. I refused to join his cause, and attempted at negotiations, but at that point he was far too hostile to listen. There were only two options in his mind; join or die.
“Deep within the cave we fought for three days straight. Our attacks carved the cave into the deep labarynth it is now. He did have more power than me, but I was more experienced which aided in my ability to avoid his attacks. On the third day I began to tire. As my abilities began to give away, Mewtwo’s power battered me around the entire cave. I lay there bleeding on the ground as he lowered himself charging up a shadow ball. He proclaimed himself victorious, but I saw it differently. I explained that he may have won this battle, but that would not bring him significance which is what he ultimately desired. I told him that the only way to find a purpose is to embrace the life he has been given and humble himself, only then will the pathway be clear.
“This seemed to confuse him into lowering his attack and giving me time to teleport away. I kept my distance but constantly meditated to keep an eye on him. My words must have stumped him as he temporarily abandoned his quest in search for answers. He stayed within the confines of the cave until a young trainer, a champion of the Pokemon League entered. Apparrantly Mewtwo found the answer he needed either during or following his battle and defeat by this trainer, and ultimately changed into the pokemon he is today. Since Mewtwo had now found a purpose and was watching over Kanto, I decided to focus on other lands on this planet. I found myself in Johto. The country was overrun by mysteries and Team Rocket. I watched as a young trainer from that land struggled and barely defeated the weak remainder of Team rocket.
“I knew at that point something must be done. No trainer would be like the legendary trainer who gave Mewtwo his purpose. There would not be another Red. I wish he were still around. I gathered many of my fellow abras and kadabaras as we headed to the next country, Hoenn. Here I set up a base deep in the woods and the beginnings of the Underground Psychic Network were laid. Our goal was to use our psychic abilities to rid us of threats to our planet. We would forever hide in the shadows, giving credit to a trainer, or a natural disaster. It was in Hoenn that I met Blaziken here. The country was littered with Team Aqua and Team Magma. Together, myself, Blaziken, and several other pokemon members aided both a male and female trainer in defeating these teams once and for all. These trainers were even weaker than the one from Johto. Luckily we kept our mission and were completely hidden giving those two sub-par trainers all the credit.
“Slowly, pokemon began to hear of us through our members, and many psychics began to join, including a group of Medidite. I called upon our friend Blaziken to train these psychics in the art of fighting, and as you can see by the doorway, he did a very good job. By the time I traveled to the Sinnoh Region, our network officially worked underground by a series of tunnels deep below the surface of the earth. Again we aided a pair of trainers there in disposing of Team Galactic. We have always been around, but never seen. Our numbers are over ten thousand now. We are now extending our aid during this time of need. There you have it.”
The council stood speechless for a moment, many with mouths open at the thought.
Darkrai: “You mentioned you wish Red was still around. What happened to him?”
Alakazam: “Noone, not even I, Mewtwo, nor the Xatu know. He just disappeared.”
Kyogre: “Why aren’t you part of the council now that Mewtwo has changed his ways?”
Alakazam: “To be honest, Mewtwo did extend me an invitation, but I declined. I am much happier in the position I am currently holding. I am still not too fond of him or his ideas, but when Blaziken informed me that the entire planet was in danger, I swalloed my pride to help.”
Manaphy: “We need to come up with a plan, and fast.”
The next few minutes were filled with shouting of ideas, and loud quarrelings amongst the legends. Meowth kept an eye on the battle in the distance. A short time later, a decision was made. The legends were going to move out in waves with aid from the Underground Psychic Network. First all airborne pokemon would sweep the sky followed by a barrage of attacks from the land-bound pokemon. A quick and constant stream of attacks should bring the dragon down. Lugia and Ho-oh lead the charge of the flyers, while the three dogs led the land-bound pokemon to a near location. Alakazam sent psychics with both parties as he floted in the Chamber room with Meowth, Blaziken, and Absol.
Blaziken: “Do you think this will work?”
Alakazam: “It is difficult to predict at the moment. I sence something else, a dark presence is near but I am unsure of what.”
Suddenly, directly in front of them, a single Haunter appeared in a panic.
Haunter: “Where’s the council? I need to speak with them immediately!”
Meowth: “They are no longer here. All that remain went to aid in the fight with this dragon that has invaded our planet. What’s going on?”
Haunter: “It’s Giratina! Some evil thing showed up at the cave and is controlling him. This stranger had a cold cruel aura about him. Just his presence gave me the feeling of evil and fear. He even forced Giratina to blow up his home.”
Alakazam: “It appears as though I have my answer to the dark presence.”
Absol: “What are we going to do? Could our forces destroy both the dragon and this being?”
Alakazam: “I doubt it especially with Giratina on their side. Too many of them are full of pride. They think because they are labeled as legendary, they are better than others. This is not true. Each and every one of them is nothing more than a pokemon with strengths and weaknesses like each of us. Until they realize this, they will most certainly fail.”
Haunter: “If they can’t defeat it, what will happen to the planet? What will happen to us?”
Blaziken: “If they lose, everything will be destroyed; I have no doubt about that. Is there any way to escape?”
Absol: “Actually, there may be. In the area of Hoenn, there is a rocket ship. We could gather many pokemon and assemble at that ship. If things go badly, we could climb aboard and find somewhere to go. We could maybe even find Mewtwo and the others.”
Meowth: “Yeah and we could use the pokeballs to get more of us on the ship.”
Alakazam: “ I know of the place you speak, Absol. I shall assemble my reserve troops. They can teleport pokemon to you from all over the world. You will need to find a supply of pokeballs. There should be a pokemart nearby that you can raid. Gather closer, I am going to teleport us all to the rocket. It truly is the only way.”
With that, Alakazam closed his eyes, and instantly, he, Meowth, Haunter, Blaziken and Absol disappeared.
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Manaiacal laughter could be heard throughout the Black Knight’s campground as the fusion process between himself and the Lord of Fire took place. Lighting and fire spewed from the tent as man and god became one body. Instantly healing the wounds of his new body, the Lord of Fire stepped out of the tent to see his surroundings, and was immediately met by a large crowd of men. The freedom he now had enticed him to show his power once again on the citizens of this planet, his planet. The Lord of Fire gathered energy into his new body, and began to grow twice its original size. He lifted his arms as fire began to fall from the sky. Men scattered throughout the camp as the Lord of Fire also caused lava geisers to appear throughout the area. Several men were killed instantaneously. Suddenly, the Captain, who had just returned from his walk, appeared once more, and looking up at the Black Knight, trembled in fear. The Lord of Fire picked up a large sword and began to manipulate it into a long broadsword.
Captain: “Master?”
Fire Lord: “Ah yes, the captain of this army. You did not leave my body to die on the battlefield with honor. For this I am both appreciative and outraged. If you had not brought the body here, I would have never been released from the Fire Emblem. But this human’s spirit desires your death for your betrayal.”
Captain: “You’re…..you’re not the Black Knight. What are you?”
Fire Lord: “The Black Knight’s memories and spirit are still here, I am using his body as a vessel. Simply call me the Lord of Fire, a god of this world. Prepare to die.”
The captain began to run away, but the Lord of Fire caused the air of the entire region to turn into flame. One by one the men’s skin began to melt from their bodies as they collaped dead where they stood. After several minutes of intense flame, the Lord of Fire looked around at the now destroyed camp. Carcasses of men littered the area, but one man remained alive. Cowering next to a large rock, the man watched as the god before him raised his hand and shot black energy across the ground. Suddenly the bones began to rattle as they re-assembled themselves. Within minutes his army stood before him once more, not as a regular army, but an army of the dead. The god leaned down to the cowring man and began to speak to him, however it was not the Lord of Fire’s commanding voice, it was the Black Knight’s spirit speaking.
Black Knight: “I promised to remember you, General.”
The soldier stood upright looking back in the face of his master in fear. The Lord of Fire pointed his finger towards the new General and a beam of black energy shot from it.
Fire Lord: “You have been given the power to contol my army of the dead. Serve me well and you shall continue to be taken care of, General.”
The General stood before the Skeleton soldiers who were gathering spears, swords, and bows. He raised his own sword into the air as he addressed the dead.
General: “Soldiers, we head to your previous battlefield. We need to increase our numbers further more.”
Fire Lord: “Excellent.”
In groups, the skeletons began to march towards the fire field in search for the bodies of their fallen commerades during the battle. The Lord of Fire placed his hand on the General’s shoulder as they walked on into the distance.
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Samus was still working on her ship as she prepared for take off. She ensured that everything was fully functional, and discarded of some unnecessary equptment to compensate for the large number of individuals boarding her vessel. She had once again placed her helmet on to scan her ship one last time. Suddenly her scanner rang an alarm. She looked around her ship to find nothing, but upon looking aroud the area, her scanner zoomed in on a large amount of fire in the far distance.
Samus: “Oh Great, I know this is the Land of Fire, but that’s not normal. Especially with those types of power readings.”
She placed her helmet on the ground as she ran up the steps to find the dining hall to warn Marth and the other lords. As she reached the top steps a pair of soldiers ran into her, each falling to the ground.
Samus: “Hey, watch where you’re going!”
Soldier: “I’m sorry m’lady. We need to get to Prince Marth immediately.”
Samus: “Well that’s where I’m headed but you don’t see me blowing through walls or anything.”
Soldier: “M’Lady you don’t understand. We found two dead soldiers in the treasure room, and our beloved Fire Emblem is gone.”
Samus: “I bet that has to do with that abnormal fire my scanner picked up. I’ll follow you all. What are you waiting for? Move it!”
The Captain of the Black Knight’s army stood upon the tiny hill directly in front of the line of tents. He observed the few remaining men at his disposal on the plain below him, as they scrambled around the camp, broken and defeated. The Black Knight, on the brink of death, had been placed inside the largest tent. His torso was still bleeding profusely as his breathing became labored. He lay there hoping for something, anything that would save him from this disgrace. That bird that had defeated him, those wretched lords, and the puppet Geno, who had only given him a portion of power, his captain who refused him the honor of dying on the field of battle, must all pay. Silently, his soul screamed for vengeance as his body became colder by the second. His heart beating slowly, Black Knight closed his eyes still hopeful, still yearning for some chance at life. Outside the tent, a single solder ran up to the captain.
Captain: “What is it soldier?”
Soldier: “Sir, the party that was sent to the castle is approaching.”
Captain: “Excellent, tell them to hasten their steps. I wish to see if the word is true about the Fire Emblem. We could use it to our advantage.”
The soldier nodded as he ran down the hill towards the approaching party on the horizon. The captain was deep in thought as he watched the oncoming men. His ponderings switched from his leader’s failure, to bleak hopes for his men’s future. There must be something they could do rather than die out in the wilderness and the Fire Emblem could either aid them, or seal their doom. Most of the men stopped and watched as the small party ran up the hill and stood before the Captain. Each man showed the small spoils they had stolen. One man held coins and jewels, another presented expensive purple cloths, another heaving well-crafted weoponary. Although these items were of great value, the Captain kept glancing back toward the single man in the back. After each soldier in the forground had shown the Captain their goods, the single man in the back stepped forward. This soldier did not carry large items, but rather a small wooden chest. He knelt to the ground, and opened the chest as he lifted it into the air. Nestled on a small pillow was the large red stone, the Fire Emblem.
Captain: “Thi…this is it?”
Soldier: “Yes sir, one of a few, although we are unsure as to which this is, and the power it holds. It could house anything from a small amount of additional power, to the ability to cause the end of the world.”
Captain: “Well then we must handle it carefully until we know what it can do. Were you seen?”
Soldier: “Unfortunately, yes. A pair of their guards spotted us, but they were disposed of before they could call for backup. We hid the bodies in the treasure room where we found the Fire Emblem, and ran out as fast as we could.”
Captain: “Imbeciles! Despite how well you may have hidden them, you did so in the treasure room, the one room that multitudes of guards are sure to patrol. If they don’t already know this thing is gone, they will soon enough. It doesn’t matter now; what’s done is done. Put it with the rest of our goods. I have some thinking to do, and then I wish to address the men.”
The soldiers made their way toward the right-most tent along the line. Each placed their findings inside the tent and made their way back to the camp. The soldier with the Fire Emblem, however, remained before the Captain.
Soldier: “Sir, Where is the Black Knight?”
Captain: “Why do you ask?”
Soldier: “I thought it would be fitting for him to see our greatest finding for himself, as it was he who commissioned us to raid the castle.”
Captain: “That is kind of you, but completely unnecessary. We lost the battle due to his overconfidence and trust in the puppet’s power. Both failed miserably, and we dragged him off the battlefield to die alone in his tent. Such a fool should not be allowed the honor of dying on the battlefield. Place the box with the rest of the treasure and be on your way. Dismissed!”
The soldier, knowing it best not to argue, closed the lid to the box and walked away from the Captain’s presence. The Captain began to pace, his mind racing with decisions once more. Quickly arriving at the conclusion that pacing in the same spot within the camp was not of any aid, he grasped ahold of his sword and began to walk away from the camp, believing that the fresh air away from the men would clear his head. The solder grasping hold of the chest contining the Fire Emblem continued to look over his shoulder as the Captain disappeared down the slope and out of sight. Glancing quickly around him, the soldier found there to be no man nearby. He stood for a moment, nervous about the decision he was about to make, then jumped for the Black Knight’s Tent. As he entered, the smell of blood engulfed his nostrils. He crept forward towards the black armored body lying on the ground before him. His steps were slow as he made his was around to the Black Knight’s side where he knelt down with the box still in hand. Suddenly, the Black Knight gasped a large breath of air, startling the soldier. Gaining his composure once more, he spoke to his master.
Soldier: “Sir, can you hear me?”
There was no response.
Soldier: “Master, Is there anything I can do to help? You don’t have to respond if you don’t want to. Save your strength. I wish there was something I could do to help. All I can do is to confirm that our mission was successful. We have brought back several items of value, but the most important is here in my hand. I’ll open it for you if you have the strength to look.”
The soldier placed the chest upon the ground, opened it, and pulled out the Fire Emblem’s pillow, placing it on the ground before the Black Knight’s helmet. The Emblem began to glow slightly, unnoticed by the soldier. The Black Knight opened his eyes and beheld the jewel.
BK: “It….can’t…….be…..it’s…..”
Soldier: “One of the Fire Emblems, yes. It was fairly easy to take since Marth had his entire army fighting ours. It cost a couple of slit throats from their side, but that’s all. I shall leave it here with you. May it bring you some comfort in in your….well…”
The Black Knight slowly lifted his head to observe the soldier. He stared into his eyes before collapsing back to the ground.
BK: “You…..shall be…….remembered.”
The soldier stood up and walked out of the tent leaving the Black Knight alone to stare at the Fire Emblem. It seemed to glow even more brightly than before. Slowly inching his arm towards the gem, it began to shine brigher and brigher. Finally, he grasped ahold of the emblem, and a rush of energy surged through his body as the stone shone brilliantly. A voice could be heard inside his head.
Voice: “At last, I have found the one who can free me from my prison.”
BK: “….who…”
Voice: “There is no need for audible words; you can use your inner monologue to converse with me. I can see you are mortally injured, which means I do not have much time to address you. Are you willing to hear me? I can offer you life.”
BK (thoughts): “I’m listening.”
Voice: “Many years ago, I was a powerful ruler over this land; a god. I ruled with an iron fist for many years and was eventually summoned to a council for the gods on another world. However, my companions did not agree with my practices and betrayed me, banishing me within this stone, this Fire Emblem for all of eternity. I pondered often of a way to escape. I used my might to attack the stone from the inside to no avail, but I knew there must be a way. Most devices such as this have a hidden way, a back door, so to speak, of reversing the effects. I began to think of what it would be. Suddenly, it came to me that my actions upon the humans of this world were what they condemned me for, so it must be a human who could release me. I find that I was correct in this matter, as you have been the only contact I have had these many years.”
BK(thoughts): “How can you help me?”
Voice: “Releasing me from this prison will be most beneficial to you. For my guess is that you must give yourself entirely to the power of the stone. Fuse yourself with it, and we shall be as one. You would still have your soul and your mind, but I would be the dominant over your body. As I am a god I cannot die, meaning therefore you cannot die.”
A small surge of energy pulsed through the Black Knight’s skull as the stone shown more brilliant.
Voice: “I can see that you too have been betrayed and defeated by several individuals. Together, we can have our revenge upon them. We shall reign superior as the puppet, the bird, the human lords, your captain, and the gods of the council who enslaved me cower before us. Give of yourself unto me, and I promise we shall have our day of glory!”
BK(thoughts): “What is your name?”
Voice: “I have many names, but the most used is the Lord of Fire.”
BK: “Lord…..of…..Fire……I…….give…………myself…..to………….you.”
Suddenly, the Fire Emblem gave off a blinding light as the air around it turned into flame. The Black Knight’s body rose into the air as the fusion process began.
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Meowth: “What’s taking them so stinkin long? We pulled that lever twenty minutes ago, and noone has shown up yet. Rayquaza isn’t going to last that long.”
Absol: “I understand your hurry, but several of them are traveling a long distance it’s going to take some time. Besides, Rayquaza is a lot tougher than you think. He can hold his own long enough for us to assemble.”
Meowth: “Yeah, well you better be right.”
The seconds seemed to creep by as they waited on the members of the council. Shorlty after, Absol noticed the form of Lugia flying towards them. Both pokemon ran towards the window as Lugia began to fly low for a landing.
Meowth: “Lugia! It’s about time someone showed up. There’s big problems.”
Lugia: “Such as a large purple dragon fighting Rayquaza? I already know, I just left the scene. Latios and Latias were sent back to warn us but they were too late. They are helping Rayquaza now.”
Absol: “What about Mewtwo and the others?”
Lugia: “Noone knows, but we have to take care of this first. I think I hear more coming.”
Lugia was right, shortly after his arrival, Moltres, Zapdos, Articuno, Suicune, Raikou, Entei, Ho-oh, and Cresselia appeared. It had been almost an hour since the beacon had been lit, but thankfully several more legends had appeared including Kyogre, Groudon, all four Regis, Mesprit, Uxie, Azelf, Shaymin and Manaphy. Even Heatran and Darkrai, who rarely made an appearance, materialized before their eyes.
Lugia: “Greetings Everyone, I believe we are only waiting for Giratina, but I’m sure we can fill him in at some point later. He may not even be in our world to see the beacon. We have called this emercency meeting today for a very important purpose.”
Meowth: “Oh for cryin out loud. There’s some big purple dragon attacking us just like that Fox said, so let’s get to action now!”
Cresselia: “What’s this?”
Zapdos: “Details, give us details.”
Lugia: “Patience Meowth, we’re getting there. Yes, the news that Fox McCloud had brought us before is true as I and Rayquaza had feared. There is an extremely powerful dragon fighting Rayquaza as we speak. I’m not sure how long the battle has lasted, but Rayquaza is showing serious signs of fatigue. Luckily Latios and Latias have returned and are helping him keep the creature at bay. Look for yourself over to the East.”
Every pokemon within the council’s room turned their eyes toward the East. Instantly each of them saw as their friend and defender, Rayquaza was fighting off Ridley whilst Latios and Latios sped around them.
Manaphy: “Weren’t Latios and Latias with Mewtwo? What happened to them?”
Absol: “I asked the same, but there seem to be no answers.”
Groudon: “Looks like we need to destroy this thing first!”
Lugia: “Exactly my thoughts.”
Heatran: “This shouldn’t be too hard. All us legends against one dragon.”
Voice: “You all assume too much as usual.”
Every head began to scan the room for the source of the strange voice ringing through their ears. No pokemon had spoken before them. Suddenly, two Medichams appeared before the entryway to the council. Both pokemon were holding a fighting stance as if guarding something oncoming. Just as quickly as the Medicham appeared, multitudes of abra, and kadabera began appearing in all vacant spots of the floor. Confused and slightly outraged by this behaviour, the legends began to talk amongst themselves till one of the Medicham spoke.
Medicham: “Pokemon Council Members, we present to you our leader, Alakazam.”
Both Medicham stepped aside as Alakazam used his psychic powers to float into the center of the room. Blaziken was following closely.
Blaziken: “Hey Meowth, I’m back!”
Meowth: “Just where in the hell have you been?”
Alakazam raised one spoon in the air and used his psychic abilites to place Meowth seated upon the ground.
Alakazam: “Silence, Feline. I shall explain everything. I am Alakazam, the leader of the Underground Psychic Network. We are a large group comprising of many psychic pokemon as well as a few select others who have earned membership into our group. Your own Celebi is one of us. As I’m sure many of you are unaware of my background as well as the Network’s I shall explain this also.
“Many years ago, I was the most powerful psychic known on this planet. I was well respected amongst pokemon, and what few men I entrusted. Professor Oak was one such man. Then one day, scientists found DNA of a mew and began their cruel expiraments. Mewtwo was born from these expiraments. I turned a blind eye hoping that their expirament would fail miserably, but they progressed further than I had originally anticipated. The infant Mewtwo was much stronger than any other clones they had produced. I kept a close eye on him until the day he destroyed the research lab. At that point I took to a cave near Cerulean City for meditation amd preparation for the event I knew to come eventually. Surely enough, Mewtwo was drawn to my power. He boasted of being the most powerful pokemon in the world, and wished to dispose of his opposition to create his own army for revenge against the human race. I refused to join his cause, and attempted at negotiations, but at that point he was far too hostile to listen. There were only two options in his mind; join or die.
“Deep within the cave we fought for three days straight. Our attacks carved the cave into the deep labarynth it is now. He did have more power than me, but I was more experienced which aided in my ability to avoid his attacks. On the third day I began to tire. As my abilities began to give away, Mewtwo’s power battered me around the entire cave. I lay there bleeding on the ground as he lowered himself charging up a shadow ball. He proclaimed himself victorious, but I saw it differently. I explained that he may have won this battle, but that would not bring him significance which is what he ultimately desired. I told him that the only way to find a purpose is to embrace the life he has been given and humble himself, only then will the pathway be clear.
“This seemed to confuse him into lowering his attack and giving me time to teleport away. I kept my distance but constantly meditated to keep an eye on him. My words must have stumped him as he temporarily abandoned his quest in search for answers. He stayed within the confines of the cave until a young trainer, a champion of the Pokemon League entered. Apparrantly Mewtwo found the answer he needed either during or following his battle and defeat by this trainer, and ultimately changed into the pokemon he is today. Since Mewtwo had now found a purpose and was watching over Kanto, I decided to focus on other lands on this planet. I found myself in Johto. The country was overrun by mysteries and Team Rocket. I watched as a young trainer from that land struggled and barely defeated the weak remainder of Team rocket.
“I knew at that point something must be done. No trainer would be like the legendary trainer who gave Mewtwo his purpose. There would not be another Red. I wish he were still around. I gathered many of my fellow abras and kadabaras as we headed to the next country, Hoenn. Here I set up a base deep in the woods and the beginnings of the Underground Psychic Network were laid. Our goal was to use our psychic abilities to rid us of threats to our planet. We would forever hide in the shadows, giving credit to a trainer, or a natural disaster. It was in Hoenn that I met Blaziken here. The country was littered with Team Aqua and Team Magma. Together, myself, Blaziken, and several other pokemon members aided both a male and female trainer in defeating these teams once and for all. These trainers were even weaker than the one from Johto. Luckily we kept our mission and were completely hidden giving those two sub-par trainers all the credit.
“Slowly, pokemon began to hear of us through our members, and many psychics began to join, including a group of Medidite. I called upon our friend Blaziken to train these psychics in the art of fighting, and as you can see by the doorway, he did a very good job. By the time I traveled to the Sinnoh Region, our network officially worked underground by a series of tunnels deep below the surface of the earth. Again we aided a pair of trainers there in disposing of Team Galactic. We have always been around, but never seen. Our numbers are over ten thousand now. We are now extending our aid during this time of need. There you have it.”
The council stood speechless for a moment, many with mouths open at the thought.
Darkrai: “You mentioned you wish Red was still around. What happened to him?”
Alakazam: “Noone, not even I, Mewtwo, nor the Xatu know. He just disappeared.”
Kyogre: “Why aren’t you part of the council now that Mewtwo has changed his ways?”
Alakazam: “To be honest, Mewtwo did extend me an invitation, but I declined. I am much happier in the position I am currently holding. I am still not too fond of him or his ideas, but when Blaziken informed me that the entire planet was in danger, I swalloed my pride to help.”
Manaphy: “We need to come up with a plan, and fast.”
The next few minutes were filled with shouting of ideas, and loud quarrelings amongst the legends. Meowth kept an eye on the battle in the distance. A short time later, a decision was made. The legends were going to move out in waves with aid from the Underground Psychic Network. First all airborne pokemon would sweep the sky followed by a barrage of attacks from the land-bound pokemon. A quick and constant stream of attacks should bring the dragon down. Lugia and Ho-oh lead the charge of the flyers, while the three dogs led the land-bound pokemon to a near location. Alakazam sent psychics with both parties as he floted in the Chamber room with Meowth, Blaziken, and Absol.
Blaziken: “Do you think this will work?”
Alakazam: “It is difficult to predict at the moment. I sence something else, a dark presence is near but I am unsure of what.”
Suddenly, directly in front of them, a single Haunter appeared in a panic.
Haunter: “Where’s the council? I need to speak with them immediately!”
Meowth: “They are no longer here. All that remain went to aid in the fight with this dragon that has invaded our planet. What’s going on?”
Haunter: “It’s Giratina! Some evil thing showed up at the cave and is controlling him. This stranger had a cold cruel aura about him. Just his presence gave me the feeling of evil and fear. He even forced Giratina to blow up his home.”
Alakazam: “It appears as though I have my answer to the dark presence.”
Absol: “What are we going to do? Could our forces destroy both the dragon and this being?”
Alakazam: “I doubt it especially with Giratina on their side. Too many of them are full of pride. They think because they are labeled as legendary, they are better than others. This is not true. Each and every one of them is nothing more than a pokemon with strengths and weaknesses like each of us. Until they realize this, they will most certainly fail.”
Haunter: “If they can’t defeat it, what will happen to the planet? What will happen to us?”
Blaziken: “If they lose, everything will be destroyed; I have no doubt about that. Is there any way to escape?”
Absol: “Actually, there may be. In the area of Hoenn, there is a rocket ship. We could gather many pokemon and assemble at that ship. If things go badly, we could climb aboard and find somewhere to go. We could maybe even find Mewtwo and the others.”
Meowth: “Yeah and we could use the pokeballs to get more of us on the ship.”
Alakazam: “ I know of the place you speak, Absol. I shall assemble my reserve troops. They can teleport pokemon to you from all over the world. You will need to find a supply of pokeballs. There should be a pokemart nearby that you can raid. Gather closer, I am going to teleport us all to the rocket. It truly is the only way.”
With that, Alakazam closed his eyes, and instantly, he, Meowth, Haunter, Blaziken and Absol disappeared.
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Manaiacal laughter could be heard throughout the Black Knight’s campground as the fusion process between himself and the Lord of Fire took place. Lighting and fire spewed from the tent as man and god became one body. Instantly healing the wounds of his new body, the Lord of Fire stepped out of the tent to see his surroundings, and was immediately met by a large crowd of men. The freedom he now had enticed him to show his power once again on the citizens of this planet, his planet. The Lord of Fire gathered energy into his new body, and began to grow twice its original size. He lifted his arms as fire began to fall from the sky. Men scattered throughout the camp as the Lord of Fire also caused lava geisers to appear throughout the area. Several men were killed instantaneously. Suddenly, the Captain, who had just returned from his walk, appeared once more, and looking up at the Black Knight, trembled in fear. The Lord of Fire picked up a large sword and began to manipulate it into a long broadsword.
Captain: “Master?”
Fire Lord: “Ah yes, the captain of this army. You did not leave my body to die on the battlefield with honor. For this I am both appreciative and outraged. If you had not brought the body here, I would have never been released from the Fire Emblem. But this human’s spirit desires your death for your betrayal.”
Captain: “You’re…..you’re not the Black Knight. What are you?”
Fire Lord: “The Black Knight’s memories and spirit are still here, I am using his body as a vessel. Simply call me the Lord of Fire, a god of this world. Prepare to die.”
The captain began to run away, but the Lord of Fire caused the air of the entire region to turn into flame. One by one the men’s skin began to melt from their bodies as they collaped dead where they stood. After several minutes of intense flame, the Lord of Fire looked around at the now destroyed camp. Carcasses of men littered the area, but one man remained alive. Cowering next to a large rock, the man watched as the god before him raised his hand and shot black energy across the ground. Suddenly the bones began to rattle as they re-assembled themselves. Within minutes his army stood before him once more, not as a regular army, but an army of the dead. The god leaned down to the cowring man and began to speak to him, however it was not the Lord of Fire’s commanding voice, it was the Black Knight’s spirit speaking.
Black Knight: “I promised to remember you, General.”
The soldier stood upright looking back in the face of his master in fear. The Lord of Fire pointed his finger towards the new General and a beam of black energy shot from it.
Fire Lord: “You have been given the power to contol my army of the dead. Serve me well and you shall continue to be taken care of, General.”
The General stood before the Skeleton soldiers who were gathering spears, swords, and bows. He raised his own sword into the air as he addressed the dead.
General: “Soldiers, we head to your previous battlefield. We need to increase our numbers further more.”
Fire Lord: “Excellent.”
In groups, the skeletons began to march towards the fire field in search for the bodies of their fallen commerades during the battle. The Lord of Fire placed his hand on the General’s shoulder as they walked on into the distance.
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Samus was still working on her ship as she prepared for take off. She ensured that everything was fully functional, and discarded of some unnecessary equptment to compensate for the large number of individuals boarding her vessel. She had once again placed her helmet on to scan her ship one last time. Suddenly her scanner rang an alarm. She looked around her ship to find nothing, but upon looking aroud the area, her scanner zoomed in on a large amount of fire in the far distance.
Samus: “Oh Great, I know this is the Land of Fire, but that’s not normal. Especially with those types of power readings.”
She placed her helmet on the ground as she ran up the steps to find the dining hall to warn Marth and the other lords. As she reached the top steps a pair of soldiers ran into her, each falling to the ground.
Samus: “Hey, watch where you’re going!”
Soldier: “I’m sorry m’lady. We need to get to Prince Marth immediately.”
Samus: “Well that’s where I’m headed but you don’t see me blowing through walls or anything.”
Soldier: “M’Lady you don’t understand. We found two dead soldiers in the treasure room, and our beloved Fire Emblem is gone.”
Samus: “I bet that has to do with that abnormal fire my scanner picked up. I’ll follow you all. What are you waiting for? Move it!”
[M:-5]
