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While Volcan went to retrieve Aerendyl from the Inn, Luke took Ignus next door to Minato's house where he could play with Caulin while his parents were busy, and then brought the knights inside to offer some tea until Volcan returned. A short while later, he arrived with two others in tow - a Lopunny, and an Espeon - the latter who was levitating an open book in front of him as he walked.

The two came upon the sight of the Royal Knights seated in the living room of the house, stopping in their tracks briefly to take in the pair, who introduced themselves to the newcomers.

"The Royal Knights of Calygrad?" Aerendyl asked, his face lighting up as he took them in studiously, "By Arceus, I never thought I'd live to see the day I would see the two of you with my own eyes! This is a splendid honour."

"You sound like a fan, Aerendyl," Neilla commented to her teammate.

"You know I love history, Neilla, and these two are legendary," said Aerendyl, looking up at her. "I could host a whole lecture on their accomplishments!"

"Perhaps another time, Aerendyl," Volcan intercepted before the Espeon could go off on a tangent, and then cleared his throat before addressing the knights, "This is Captain Neilla of Team Plainsrunner, and her scholarly teammate, Aerendyl. They fought beside us at the Battle of Hadleigh."

Neilla nodded to the two wolves, "Nice to meet you."

Zacian nodded back in acknowledgment of their greeting, then turned quickly to Aerendyl. "Captain Volcan tells us you have been researching the history of the Kaeru Assassins and their connection to the Aporagorev Boglands. Has your research bore any fruit that might aid us in locating the Nexus?" She asked directly.

Aerendyl, after composing himself and clearing his throat, and seated himself on the floor as he addressed the two. "Regrettably, while I have spent much of the summer doing research, very little about the assassins themselves is available publicly," he explained, "Much of what I have learned speaks of them being enemies of the Kingdom of Nido, though the reasons for the enmity are... Inconsistent. It is difficult to determine what is fact, but it has become clear the two sides are very closely intertwined in some way. I have created a journal with my research notes."

"Is that the book you brought with you?" Volcan asked.

"No; this is merely something I was reading," Aerendyl replied, setting the book he was still levitating onto the table, "I decided to keep my research somewhere secure. My notes are back home, at my library."

Volcan shared a look with Luke and looked at Aerendyl again. "So... Nothing cluing you to where the assassins might be? We only know they're in the Boglands but, nothing else beyond that?"

"I'm sorry, Volcan, but the resources available to me were insufficient," he said with a tone of regret, "However, all is not lost. I know somewhere else that we can look, which will have substantially more material relating to the Kingdom of Nido."

"And where might that be?" Luke asked, tilting his head curiously.

"My research revealed that the city of Lindenberg, before it took on that name, was founded by the Kingdom of Nido during its peak," Aerendyl explained, "And located there is a castle that serves as the city's museum and archives, with a collection far superior to my library. It is my opinion that if we continue pursuing information about the Kingdom, we can learn more about the Assassins, possibly even where they went."

"It sounds like our best hope," said Volcan, crossing an arm across his torso to rest his other elbow upon it, supporting his head on his fist, "have you been to these archives before?"

"As a patron, yes, but not for this research assignment," Aerendryl replied, "When I had the idea to continue my research there, there's one of your team I hoped to enlist the aid of," he looked at Volcan as he spoke.

Volcan caught on quickly. "You want Lashanne?" He asked.

"That is correct. Given her career before she joined you, she was the first one I thought of. Her experiences in matters such as this certainly outweigh my own."

Volcan gave a nod. "Well, she is an archaeologist. Research like this would be exactly what she specializes in," he agreed.

"Should I run and grab her?" Luke offered.

"Not just yet," said Volcan, "If Lindenberg's where we have to go to find answers, I think as many of us as possible should be going to help speed things along. But she and I are the only bookish types on Team Phalanx, and she's my next pick to lead the team in my absence. Besides that, Minato will probably want to go with her."

"Sounds about right, considering those two are about as inseparable as we are," Luke said with a chuckle, "Is there anyone else that should join us?"

"No one else I think would be interested in spending hours in a library," replied Volcan, "In which case, Team Phalanx should probably have a temporary merger with Valiant, to merge command structure and have you in charge for the time being." He rubbed his chin as he considered, and then glanced at Luke, "Unless, you want to come along too?"

"Clearly you didn't hear the 'as inseparable as we are' bit I threw in just now," Luke retorted with a smirk. "I'm going wherever you go, love."

Volcan smiled back and nodded. "Alright. I suppose then..." he trailed off as his gaze drifted to the corner, where Kage stood silently throughout the discussion. "What's your take Kage? You're Luke's second in command; you okay to lead both teams while he and I are gone?"

"Not something I haven't done before," Kage answered with a nod, "Just don't take too long. Every day we waste gives the Dark Crusade more time to recover and potentially find the Nexus before we do."

"I can't make any promises," said Aerendyl, "the Lindenberg archives are vast; it will take time."

"For now, our best advantage remains that hopefully Calhoun still doesn't know where the Nexus is either," said Volcan, crossing his arms, "The Crusade's been suspiciously quiet all summer."

"Word is that the Guilds have been working overtime trying to hunt them down," Neilla put in, "from the new central hub in Hadleigh. The new Bureaus founded by Romulus have brought in some more specialized types to track them, targeting their recruitment centers and shutting them down one by one. I imagine Jora played a role in providing that information," she concluded with a smile.

"I'm glad to hear that," Luke returned with a nod and a smile of his own. "The less they can add to their numbers, the more of an advantage that gives us in the event they try to go back on the offensive."

"Which buys us more time in the long run," said Volcan, "Still, Kage has a point. Sooner or later, Calhoun will start looking for the Nexus again, if he hasn't already been searching. The question is, does he know about the assassins?"

"A factor we cannot leave up to chance," Kage remarked sternly, "I suggest you head out to Lindenberg sooner rather than later, lest we find out the hard way."

"For once, the Greninja and I are in agreement," Zacian added, "I believe we have spent enough time here speculating."

"Alright. We better get Lashanne then," said Volcan, "We'll also get there faster if we use the airship."

"...Airship?" Zacian asked, tilting her head.

Luke started to grin at her confusion. "You better prepare to be amazed, Lady Zacian," he remarked confidently.

"That look suggests we are in for a surprise, sister," Zamazenta wisely commented, arching an eyebrow.

"I will be the judge of that," she returned, glancing at her brother.

The Royal Knights were indeed surprised when they were brought to the dirigible aircraft harboured just outside of Azure, in a recently constructed dock designed specifically for the ship. Bearing the hull of an old trade cog but modified with an attached gas bag and two large, quad-bladed propellors that extended from the back of the hull to provide propulsion. The anchor ports had been boarded over, removing the openings where normally the chains would have come from, and the anchors were absent.

"My word," said Zamazenta, "a crude, but functional looking craft, wouldn't you say?" He asked Zacian.

"I... I cannot seem to find any words to describe it," Zacian admitted, her eyes widened slightly at the sight of the airship.

"Told you that you'd be amazed," Luke pointed out smugly as he walked by, "It may be a rickety, but it's served Lashanne well throughout her tenure as a treasure huntress, and now it's our means of international travel when the mission takes us outside our borders."

"It is impressive," said Zamazenta, "How did she come to procure such a vessel?"

"She could probably tell you that story better than we could," Volcan added, looking over his shoulder, "Here she comes now."

The two wolves followed where he was looking, and spotted a Delphox approaching, accompanied by a second Lucario. The Lucario one was slightly taller than Luke and had a darker fur hue, but most notably he wore a long, black coat and carried himself like a born fighter.

"She'll need some time to get the ship ready to go," said Volcan, "I think before we head out, there are some things we have to do first," he looked at Luke as he said this.

Luke looked back at Volcan for a moment, then sighed and nodded solemnly. "Yea. We better see to it that Ignus is looked after while we're away," he agreed.

"Not just that," said Volcan, "We should also go over the town defense plan with the others. This will be the first time in a few months we've been away from Azure, and if Calhoun is heading for the Nexus, we get in his way again..." He let the sentence hang, knowing he didn't need to go into detail.

"Good point," Luke agreed, "In that case, I'll gather everyone, and we'll go over our plans."

"I'll go meet with the mayor, to go over the plan with him and then come right back," said Volcan.

Luke nodded, giving his husband a quick embrace before turning and running off to gather the rest of their teams for the discussion. With that, Volcan headed into town to seek out the Mayor, passing Minato and Lashanne to let them know the plan before leaving them to get acquainted with the Royal Knights, who still sat studying the airship.

The elder Lucario approached the two wolves with mild curiosity, glancing between the two and taking note of their features and armaments.

"So... Royal Knights, eh?" He asked with a small smirk. "Emphasis on the 'Royal' aspect. Those weapons look more for decoration than combat, given how pristine they look."

Zamazenta turned to the Lucario, regarding him studiously before he spoke. "Do not let their ornate appearance fool you, young one," he said with a hint of pride, "These weapons have served us well for hundreds of years."

"That does beg the question... How do you use them?" He asked, gesturing to Zamazenta first, "For you, it's fairly obvious," he turned to Zacian, "but for you... A sword is meant to be gripped in one's hands. If you use your teeth to grasp it, wouldn't that be uncomfortable?"

"The sword is specially crafted to fit comfortably in my jaws," the sword wolf answered indignantly, "and I have very strong jaws."

At that, Minato smirked that eager smirk of his. "I may have to take you up on that claim, just to see for myself," he said in a subtly challenging tone, one that Zacian picked up on and had the two of them locking gazes silently.

"Reel it in, hun," Lashanne cautioned, "we just met them; let's not make a bad first impression." She cleared her throat as she regarded the two, "So, you like my ship?" She asked, gesturing up with a paw to the airship.

Zacian turned her gaze away from them to look back at the airship. "It is... an unorthodox means of transportation," she admitted, "Turning a sea faring vessel into one meant for flight is not something I was expecting to hear about."

"It was given to me as a, shall we say, 'unwilling' payment for a job I did," said Lashanne, "The guy who hired me tried to back out of the deal - thought he could intimidate me into dropping it, but I set him straight and this was the prize. Though, at the time, it was just a gutted hull; couldn't even sail properly."

"I see... So rather than try to repair it back to being seaworthy, you instead opted to transform it entirely," Zacian remarked, raising an eyebrow as she stared at the ship with intrigue, "You are quite an unconventional woman."

"Unconventional isn't quite the word I'd use. Doesn't do her enough justice," Minato stated with a confident grin. "I'd probably describe her as... A perfectly balanced scale of genius and toughness."

"I'll take that," the ever-sassy Delphox replied with a grin.

Zamazenta chuckled. "She reminds me a little of you, sister, when we were much younger," the shield wolf teased Zacian.

Zacian raised her head and scoffed. "That was when I was younger, brother. I've long since grown out of that mindset," she chided.

"I dunno," Minato remarked, rubbing his chin, "I think that childhood sass is still present there somewhere."

"Excuse me?" Zacian returned, casting the Lucario a sidelong glance.

"Merely stating an observation," he replied. "I think the sass is still there, it's just... different."

"And how would you know that?" She asked pointedly.

"I don't. I'm just comparing you to my girlfriend," he replied with a smirk, "The only difference is she doesn't try to hide who she is."

Lashanne rolled her eyes and shrugged. "Well, I tried," she muttered.

Zacian twitched at what the Lucario was suggesting and turned to fully face him. She looked like she was ready to lunge at him, but instead she took in a deep breath and let it out slowly before speaking again.

"You're trying to goad me," she stated, "I will not fall prey to your insinuation, young man."

Minato just shrugged in response, "Like I said. Merely stating an observation. How you choose to interpret what I say is on you."

"Alright, enough," Lashanne said, "We're supposed to work together, remember?"

"Sorry," Minato answered, "just getting to know our allies." He added, casting a glance at Zacian as if to say, 'this discussion is far from over.'

~~~~~

Volcan entered the office of the mayor and made a request with the receptionist to see him as soon as possible. The receptionist gave Volcan the go ahead to see him, stating that he was taking care of affairs in his office, but would be available to see him if the matter was urgent.

Volcan thanked the receptionist and approached the door to the mayor's office and knocked, waiting for permission to enter before stepping inside. "Mr. Mayor," he said as he entered, shutting the door behind him, "I hope I'm not here at a bad time."

The elder Slowking glanced up at the Blaziken entering his office, shaking his head. "No, no. You're quite alright. I was just going through some documents from our local construction team. They're looking for my approval for a project of theirs," he explained before gesturing at Volcan to take a seat.

Volcan accepted the invitation to sit down, choosing his words to start the conversation. "Captain Luke and I will be heading out of town for a while, to resume the fight against the Dark Crusade," he began, "I wanted to go over the town's defense plan with you before we left, just in case."

The mayor's expression turned into a grimace upon hearing that. "So soon? But you two just had your wedding yesterday," he pointed out, "I would have thought you'd at least have your honeymoon before going back to work. Lords above know you two deserve a break for all your contributions."

"That was our hope too. But things are moving faster than we anticipated," said Volcan, sighing, "It might be for the better if we don't put it off for any longer, lest the Dark Crusade has more time to re-establish itself and make their comeback. That's why I wanted to discuss the defense plan with you. In all likelihood, we're going to encounter them out there, and they are not going to be happy to see us getting in their way again."

Volcan didn't need to say so aloud - the mayor understood all too well. Volcan feared a retaliatory strike was imminent from the Dark Crusade, and he wanted Azure to be prepared. The Slowking nodded silently after that and reached below his desk. He opened a drawer and pulled out a file with the word 'contingency' on it and opened it up to a map of the town and its surrounding area.

"Very well. Let's go over everything we've discussed so far," he stated.

"The Crusade's modus operandi has always been to attack from the sea," Volcan began, standing up and leaning over the desk to see the map, "They utilize Draco Meteor strikes to bombard a target and cause chaos, and then send their land units ashore to engage anyone willing to put up a fight," Volcan tapped the lighthouse on the map. "I have my friend's son acting as sentry up here, keeping watch for any sign of them."

Then he moved his finger to the town square. "If they are sighted, the bell at the center of town is where we go first. We ring it to sound the alarm, and the townsfolk flee to the woods, heading south - give a wide berth so that the Crusade doesn't see them go," he trailed his finger along the indicated direction.

"Our friend Jora and her clan will meet them there to lead the townspeople to safety, far from the area that will be affected by the bombardment. Once the townsfolk have made it out there and are being led by Jora, teams Valiant and Phalanx will engage the Crusade's forces to stall for time, allowing the people to get as far away as possible; if they can make it to Westport, the Guild there can protect them and send another team to pursue the Crusade."

"A sound plan indeed," the Mayor concurred, "However, I trust that you have come up with contingencies in case the Crusade tries a different tactic than what you described. For all we know, they might have adapted to us learning about their usual strategies."

"I am concerned with that, yes. Especially now that I know they have someone who can think in a broader spectrum - the one who led the attack on Hadleigh," said Volcan.

He was thinking of Asya, the deviously clever Midnight Lycanroc who had used subtle means to attack the region around Hadleigh, and deployed forces to isolate it, trying to cut it off from receiving assistance when word of her activities eventually got out. She had also outwitted Kage and his impromptu specialist team, resulting in the death of Shamshir of Team Warmachine, and nearly all of them with him. Out of everyone on the Crusade, she was the one he was the most concerned with...

"The backup plan still involves getting the people out of the town, but if the case is that the Crusade decides to attack by land, it's harder to determine which way they'll come from," Volcan admitted "The most likely course is from the south, in anticipation that heading to Westport is exactly where the people of Azure will go. In which case, I've spoken to Team Kama from Bluegrove - it's roughly the same distance away as Westport."

He fingered the area of the map that indicated the road heading north out of Azure. "Captain Sickle is a close friend of ours, and if it comes to us having to take the townspeople North, he will meet them in the woods and join the rest of our teams in the battle. Nobody knows those forests better than Team Kama; if anyone can protect the townsfolk out there, they can."

"Fair enough. So, we have our plan and our contingency plan," the Mayor said while nodding in satisfaction. "I must say, if you weren't here to make these plans, I fear our little town might not last very long against a surprise attack if it ever came down to it."

"I didn't make them alone," Volcan assured him, "Captain Luke and his second in command, Kage, helped me come up with them. This was their home long before it was mine after all, and I'll make sure both our teams know the plan as well."

"Be that as it may, Port Azure owes you for your dedication to protecting our shores," the Mayor insisted, "you have my eternal gratitude, son."

Volcan smiled and nodded to the Slowking. "It's my pleasure, sir. Now, hopefully this is all just over-planning, but you're all clear on the evacuation strategy?"

"Crystal," he replied quickly, "I may be old, but my memory is still as sharp as ever," he assured Volcan, tapping his head gently with his hand.

"Oh sorry; I did not mean to imply anything," said Volcan, putting up his hands, "just want to be sure I haven't forgotten anything."

"No harm done. I'm merely assuring you that I remember both plans clearly. I just hope you return before such an attack occurs," he remarked.

"I will certainly try to," Volcan promised, and held out his hand to the mayor, "Thank you for your time, sir."

"The pleasure is mine," the mayor said as he stood up and shook Volcan's hand firmly, "Godspeed, son."

Volcan nodded, and after releasing the mayor's paw, excused himself and headed back out of the office, letting him get back to work while the Blaziken went to rejoin his friends.

Back at the airship, Volcan found the rest of their team were starting to gather, with a few having already arrived. But he also saw Caulin, no doubt there to see his parents off, his mother Degra, and - to his dismay, Ignus. Volcan hadn't intended to leave without saying goodbye to the Rockruff, but he still hadn't thought of what to say to him.

Of course, Ignus smelled Volcan before the others noticed him approaching, and immediately he started scrambling out of Degra's arms and running full tilt into Volcan, barking loudly as he did. Volcan held out his arms and knelt to let Ignus jump into them, greeting the Rockruff with a hug and pecking the top of his head.

"Hey little guy," he said softly.

"Daddy!" Ignus barked back, wagging his tail quickly and licking his face over and over, "Daddy, Daddy!"

"I'm happy to see you too," the Blaziken replied, cradling the excited Rockruff as he stood up and continued approaching the others, spotting Minato as he spoke to Caulin, who then looked up to see Volcan, "Hey kiddo," the Blaziken greeted the Riolu.

Caulin turned and smiled when he saw Volcan approaching. "Heya Uncle!" He greeted back, then looked at Ignus in his arms, reaching up and scratching the Rockruff's head gently.

"Did your folks fill you in?" Volcan asked.

"Yup," Caulin answered with a nod, "Still bummed that I have to be on sentry duty again, but at least I can help with the evacuation when it happens," he offered optimistically.

"Best case scenario still remains if it does not happen," Lashanne reminded him.

Volcan knelt in front of Caulin. "Your mom's right, Caulin," he began, "However... Even if it is ultimately unnecessary, the danger to Azure will be very real. We've stopped the Crusade's plans several times now - on the islands, their attack in Hadleigh, stopped the prison break and helped re-establish the Guild's leadership, not to mention when we destroyed the south Nexus where we met Koa."

"They're going to have it out for us," Volcan went on, resting a hand on Caulin's shoulder, "I may be being paranoid... But the danger to Azure is very real. I am counting on you, Caulin, because, at the risk of sounding selfish, I for one don't think I can handle losing another home," he looked down at Ignus in his arms, his eyes meeting the puppy's, "Or everything it has given me."

Caulin looked at Volcan intently, sensing the building distress in his composure. He started to smirk and gently place his paw overtop of Volcan's. "I won't let you down, Uncle," he reassured the Blaziken, "Azure's as good as safe with you and Uncle Luke's team here, and I'll be sure to warn them at the first sign of trouble."

Volcan looked at Caulin, smiling and nodding to him. "I know you will," he said, and then pulled Caulin closer to him, hugging the Riolu gently - so as not to crush Ignus between them. Caulin embraced Volcan without any hesitation, practically slapping his paws around Volcan's lower back and nuzzling him lightly until they finally parted. He lifted his paw to give Ignus another pet along his head before backing up and nodding to his uncle.

"You got this."

Volcan nodded to him, and then stood back up, turning to his mother as she approached, "Look after them for me?" he asked.

"Of course," she said, taking Ignus gently in her arms, "Just be careful, my son... Come back safe."

Volcan nodded to her and then looked down at Ignus, seeing the sad look on his face. "Papa and I have to go away for a little while, son," he said, resting his hand on the back of Ignus' neck. "We have some important work to do. So, you be good for grandma until we come back, okay?"

Ignus whined in response and lifted his forelegs to press them on Volcan's chest, giving him a look pleading him to not leave. It was at this point that Luke stepped in and gently rubbed Ignus' head gently.

"It's okay, son. We won't be gone for too long," he assured the pup. "We'll be back. I promise."

Ignus seemed mildly reassured by Luke's words and gently turned to bump his head lightly into the Lucario's nose. "...Hhh...Home... soon." He managed to speak with some effort.

"We'll do our best," Volcan promised him, "We'll always come home for you, son."

With that, they passed Ignus back to Degra and gave him one final goodbye each, then turned back and stood with their teams once more, ready to begin the briefing. Everyone had come as called; Lashanne was shouting instructions up to Toby, leaning over the rail of the airship, while Minato loaded up some of the items she and him were bringing with them.

From Luke's team, Hank, Doug, Katsumoto and Eagle Eye - perched on Katsu's helmet as he usually was, were speaking with Kage. From Volcan's, Tristan, Serena and Sol stood passively listening in, with Serena the first to notice as Volcan and Luke came over to them.

"Thank you all for coming," said Volcan, getting everyone's attention, "It's time to go over the battle plan for defending Azure, if the Crusade should come knocking. Something I feel is imminent; we've gotten in their way multiple times, and I fear a retaliation will come this time."

"Heck, I don't get why they haven't already_,_" Tristan added, rubbing his head with a claw, "especially after we took out that whatchamacallit in the islands."

"That may be because they don't know we escaped their trap," Lashanne chimed in, "For the moment, they think we're out of the way."

"Hey yea, Lashanne's got a point," Eagle Eye chirped, "Even while you guys were inside that thing, I didn't see a single trace of them present on or around the island. It's like they straight up left long before we arrived."

"They thought their trap was so foolproof that they didn't need to be around to witness our demise," Kage stated, shooting a glance at Luke, "Which would have succeeded had Romulus not intervened."

"Don't remind me," Luke sternly shot back at Kage before addressing the others, "In any case, let's get right to it. Lashanne, you've got the town map handy?"

"Right here," said Lashanne, producing the map from the satchel on her side and walking over with it in hand.

Luke and Volcan lowered themselves to their knees and unfurled the map, making sure everyone could see. "Alright," began Volcan, "I went over the defense plan with the mayor; he knows his part and where to lead the citizens if an attack comes." He went over the plan to send the townsfolk south, toward Westport, if an attack comes from the sea, but mentioned there was also a contingency for them to go north, "in which case, Team Kama will be notified, and we'll be counting on help from Sickle."

"Ya know, Lizzie's still in town. I could mosey on over and let him in on this plan, so that he's not sideswiped when there's like... A few hundred townsfolk arriving at his doorstep," Hank offered.

"I've already told Sickle about the plan," Volcan replied, "He gave me some additional input to refine it. But it wouldn't hurt to go over it with him again and see if he has any more to add."

"That would be a good idea," Luke concurred, "After we're done, I'll leave it to you to bring Sickle up to speed."

"Aye aye, cap."

Volcan continued, going on to their part. "Once the townsfolk are away from the town and into the woods, it'll be up to us to buy time for them to get away. Hank will use his illusion powers to cover their tracks, conceal all signs of where they went, and you guys will be hiding in the forest waiting to ambush the Crusade's forces when they come ashore. Same idea if they launch their attack by land instead; either way when they are sighted, ring the town bell and get the people going in the opposite direction they are coming from."

Sol snorted slightly. "I'm seeing a lotta running in this plan, but not a lotta fighting," he remarked in his usual abrasive manner. "I thought the whole point of us getting stronger was to completely send them to hell if they arrived at our doorstep."

"The townsfolk take precedence over routing the enemy, Sol," Katsumoto replied firmly, "We must get them out of the crossfire if we are to avoid any civilian casualties."

"I guarantee you there will be fighting," said Volcan, "but I'm not letting Azure become another Arc Island," he added fervently, with a determination like fire in his eyes as he looked at Sol. "The Crusade is taking_no one_ this time, not if I can help it."

Luke nodded in agreement, "Well said, love," he said with a smile.

"So, Sickle is our backup plan," said Lashanne in understanding, "with the townsfolk fleeing to Bluegrove in the North if the Crusade cuts them off from heading to Westport down south... Anything else we should keep in mind?"

"Without knowing the exact forces that they'll bring, all we can do is adapt when the time comes," said Volcan, "I suspect there will be Saberwings present to give them air support; Eagle Eye and Lighris remain our best chances against that. Bellator could back them up but Dragons are not the most effective against Steel-types so he'd be limited in how much damage he can do."

"Bellator does know Flamethrower," Minato added, "He could lure a group into a kill box with his flames and give Lighris and Eagle Eye a clear window to pick them off."

"How proficient is he with it?" Luke asked.

At that, Minato averted his gaze. "Not as much as I'd like to admit... He always preferred using his claws and teeth over ranged attacks."

"Kind of like me," Volcan commented with a chuckle.

"Either way, we can still incorporate him into the plan in some way or another. Against the Crusade, we'll need all available hands on deck if we're to drive them back," Luke suggested.

"Alright. All that's left then is where you guys set up the battle lines. I'll leave that up to you for when the time comes," he went on, "For the time being, Kage is in charge of both teams - the rest of us will be gone for a little while. If the attack should come while we're away, everyone defers to him. Any questions?"

"Just one thing," Tristan spoke up, "what if they come from both directions, try to box us in?"

Everyone shared a look; a mix of surprise, and terror. Lashanne emphasized both as she replied. "I don't know what's scarier; what he just said, or that he said it," she remarked in a glib tone.

"Come on - even I'm familiar with the idea of enclosing a target; it's a basic strategy when you got the numbers," the Aggron stated defensively.

"He does have a point either way," Serena said, backing the Aggron's claim, "What do we do in that situation?"

Volcan considered the proposed idea for a moment, considering how best to proceed. "...The road goes north to Bluegrove, south to Westport... If the Crusade realizes this as well and seeks to cut off escape in those directions, our only choice then would be to go east, deeper into the forest. We can't go west onto the water; even if the townsfolk could make it to the boats, guaranteed they'll have a ship out there, if they keep their usual M.O open."

"But if they get some people in the forest too?" Serena asked. "They could completely trap us."

"They won't," Volcan stated, with surprising firmness.

Everyone in Luke's team stared back at Volcan with mild surprise, with Doug eventually speaking up and breaking the silence. "What's going on in that brain of yours, bud?" He asked with a mixture of curiosity and concern.

"I'm basing this plan around one in particular," said Volcan, "Calhoun is clearly the best fighter they have in the Dark Crusade, but in our recent encounters with them, someone else besides him has been the brains of their strategic planning."

Kage knew who Volcan was referring to. He cast a glance at the Blaziken and uncrossed his arms. "You refer to Asya, the Midnight Lycanroc," he remarked.

Volcan nodded. "Yes," he replied, "Asya is clearly well-versed in the skill of tactics. She can think ahead, think in a broader spectrum, while Calhoun doesn't seem to be able to, at least not on her level. I've fabricated these plans under the assumption that if an attack does come, it will be her who leads it, and handles the planning."

"But why does that make you sure she won't try to trap us?" Serena asked.

"If she's as skilled with strategy as I'm hoping, then she will know to never put your enemy in a position from which they have no way out. Always leave an avenue of escape open," explained Volcan, "because if you trap your opponent, and put them in a desperate position, they will fight all the harder to get out of it, and in this case the entire town would rise up all at once. They'd have no other choice; fight, or be slaughtered, and that'd take away the Crusade's advantage of numbers."

"...You're counting on the idea that she would consider the town would fight back," Kage remarked, stepping up to Volcan and staring at him coldly, "but you fail to consider one thing. Not many of the Townsfolk know how to fight, and those that do, the Crusade still outnumber two to one. That, and neither Calhoun nor Asya are above the prospect of slaughtering innocents to secure their goal," he listed off. "Apropos, if the opportunity to box them in would arise, at least Calhoun wouldn't miss that opportunity to send a message 'his' way..."

"...Shit," Volcan cursed, second-guessing his logic.

"And, we've seen she's not above attacking even when her own troops are in the line of fire," Lashanne added, "She did it at Hadleigh. Asya has clearly absolved herself of moral dilemma in her planning if she's willing to go to that length. She might be less inclined to write off her assets now, but can we really count on that?"

"And then there's Eberon," Luke stated, earning everyone's attention, "There's no doubt in my mind that they'll bring him along to relish in the carnage. When he was unleashed against us in Hadleigh, it took several members of the Council, including myself, to subdue him. Sure, we've grown stronger since then, but aside from Mewtwo, Eberon is their most dangerous asset. If Calhoun unleashes him-"

"You leave that pussy cat to me," Sol interjected, snorting smoke aggressively.

Now all eyes were on Sol. "...You sure?" Tristan added, "I've seen that guy in action. Even when he hadn't evolved yet, he was savage. He ain't going down easy."

"He hasn't faced me," Sol responded with confidence in his voice, "and no offense to your Gladiator boys back home, but I'm no pushover that'll cower at his name. That bastard may be an unstoppable force, but like my old man, I'm an immovable object... One that'll curbstomp his streak to the ground and bury it six feet under."

Everyone shared questioning looks, but it was Serena who spoke up in support of him. "...He stopped Mewtwo at the islands," she reminded, "I was tending to Koa, so I didn't witness it, but you all said he did that, right?"

That made many of the group nod in agreement. Volcan looked between the others and nodded to Sol. "Alright. Eberon's yours, then," he said, "Frankly, you're probably the only one here who can face him... But I hope you're as sure of your chances as you say."

The Typhlosion smirked back at Volcan. "You've been sparring with me on the side, you tell me," he stated.

Volcan chuckled. "I haven't faced Eberon, so I can't really compare you two," he said, "But, I did face Romulus, who has fought him - twice now. I suppose that's something."

The Blaziken shook his head and cleared his throat. "Back to the earlier matter then," he said, "...Does anyone else have any suggestions, how we might prevent the Crusade from trapping the townsfolk if they try that?"

"...What if we dug a tunnel?" Doug suggested, his three heads looking at everyone individually.

Luke and his team looked down at the Dugtrio inquisitively, then back at each other for a moment and shared a collective realization. Even Kage bore a look of stunned realization before they looked at Volcan and his team.

"...It is something we never considered," Katsumoto remarked, "It would provide them an alternate route away from the chaos."

"It would take time to properly create though," Hank added, "Not doubting Mole Man's capabilities, but he can't create a sturdy enough tunnel on his own that could shield everyone without cramping them in or risk them getting buried."

"But I know someone who could help him," Luke added.

"Who?" Volcan asked, until the realization dawned on him. "Wait... You mean Striker, your other foster son?"

"Exactly," Luke confirmed, "He's the head of our construction team here in Azure. They could help Doug create an emergency tunnel in the event the townsfolk get boxed in, or as a means to travel to Westport or Bluegrove undetected."

"I could help too," said Tristan, "I did work in the mines at Arc Island - I know a thing or two about diggin' holes and laying supports."

"Then we'll have to get started right away," Volcan offered, "Plus we'll need to put the tunnel somewhere out of sight, where it'll take longer for the Crusade to spot it, and preferably somewhere it's less likely to get hit if the Draco Meteors come down - having it collapse helps no one."

"I can get started while you guys are off doing your thing with the Royal Knights," Doug offered, "Me, Tristan, Striker's team. We'll have that tunnel dug up and reinforced by the time you get back. That's a promise!"

Volcan nodded. "I leave it to you guys, then," he said, "Best case scenario, we may not even need it but at least it's there, and it's something the Crusade won't think of off the bat."

"Unconventional strategies do that," Lashanne agreed, "I guess we've kept the knights and Neilla's crew waiting long enough then."

Volcan nodded to her and stepped back from the map to let Luke fold it. "Everyone," he began, "We'll try to be back as quick as we can. Once we have an idea of where to find the East Nexus, we'll come back to check on things here."

"You can count on us, Legs," Hank assured the Blaziken with a grin.

"Safe travels to you all," Katsu added with a nod.

"Hope you guys find what you need fer us to finally beat these guys," Eagle Eye chirped.

"So do we, Eagle Eye," agreed Volcan, turning to stare off at Azure behind them, taking in the sight of the town that had become his home once more before he left it behind. "So do we..."

The strategy meeting continued for a little longer, with everyone being made clear of the roles they played in the battles ahead. With their meeting adjourned, Volcan, Luke, Minato and Lashanne boarded the airship ready to leave. On the deck, they found the Royal Knights as well as Neilla's team waiting for them, and there seemed to be a heated debate between Zacian and Neilla.

"They're trying to make sure their home is protected while they're away - do you really fault them for that?" The Lopunny asked the sword-bearing wolf, her paws on her hips as the two glowered at one another, "Have some patience."

"Time is a luxury we do not possess, young one," Zacian shot back, "The longer they spend going over details over and over, the less likely we are to succeed in what we were tasked to do. We should have departed several minutes ago, and yet we are still here."

"If it was your home, wouldn't you want to make sure it's safe too?" Neilla asked. "Not all of us come from a kingdom with a professional standing army ready for action."

"Sister, enough," Zamazenta cut in before she could retort to the Lopunny, "She's right; we have no right to rush them. We don't yet even know where we are going. Besides, the King sent us to work with Luke and Volcan, not to make them work at our pace."

She turned and glowered at her brother in response. "I still stand by what I say. The more time we spend on frivolous matters like this, the less successful we will be when the time comes to face that demon."

"...Are we interrupting something?" Minato asked suddenly, catching their attention.

Zacian sneered slightly before glancing back at her brother. "...No. We were just finishing," she replied before stepping around him and off to another part of the airship.

Luke narrowed his eyes slightly. "Why do I get the feeling she was being difficult?" He asked.

"She very much was," agreed Neilla, shaking her head, "and I thought Drogo had no patience."

"Please, forgive my sister," Zamazenta spoke up, bowing his head in apology, "She tends to become overzealous at the best of times, especially on important assignments from the king. I promise, she does mean well."

"I dunno... Based on what I heard, it sounds like she was blowing off our town's safety for the success of our mission," Minato stated, placing his paws on his hips, "That doesn't sound very knightly to me."

"In her mind, she does not believe a town as small as Azure is in any danger," Zamazenta went on, "that it will be beneath the notice of someone like the Crusade."

"She hasn't been fighting the Crusade," Volcan stepped in, "we have. If Calhoun came after this town for any reason, it'd be in retaliation against us. That's a very real possibility, especially when we're about to oppose him again."

"I agree with you," said Zamazenta, lifting a paw in assurance.

"That still doesn't excuse her callousness," Luke said sourly, shaking his head, "But, we're getting off track. We should depart now that we're ready to go."

"I agree," said Zamazenta, "I will talk with my sister in the meantime. Please excuse me." He bowed his head, his shield rattling with the motion, before he turned and walked in the direction Zacian had gone.

"Well, this is off to a good start," Lashanne said with a roll of her eyes, before turning to look up to the helm. "Hey, Toby! Are we ready?"

"All set, Lashanne!" The Meowth called back to her.

"Then let's cast off!" Lashanne called.

The engines of the airship hummed to life, the deck vibrating as the rotors began to spin up, and the gas bag lifted higher as the side pouches were emptied of oxygen and allowed the much more buoyant helium to begin lifting them.

"I never get used to seeing this thing take off," said Volcan, going over to the railing to peer over as the airship began to ascend.

"It really is a marvel of engineering," Luke added, peering over at his home slowly growing smaller the higher they rose, "and I have to say, traveling on this thing has really helped with my anxiety over air travel."

"Well of course - there's a whole deck to walk on," Volcan replied, "and it doesn't go fast enough for any fear of being blown over the side." He hummed as he looked along the hull. "You know, if we ever go back out West, I'd love to meet the tinkerers that designed this thing. They could have found a whole new means of mass travel, much safer than traveling by boat."

"We'd have to ask Lashanne about them when we get the chance." Luke returned, turning away from the ground below to look at his husband. "...You think we're ready for this?" He asked honestly.

Volcan's bright mood faded at the question, and he didn't immediately look at Luke until he started to answer. "To be honest... I don't know," he said, "We've worked so hard this summer, training as much as we could in just the months available to us... But I wish we could have had more time."

He sighed before continuing. "We may be doing this only because the knights came to our door, and reminded us that it needs to be done," he went on, "but, it is just that. We're the only ones with any experience regarding the Nexuses, and anyone else going into those boglands will be at risk, even if they know where they are going. I suppose... It was inevitable."

Luke nodded back, taking a deep breath and slowly letting it out to steady his nerves. Then he took Volcan's hand in his paws and squeezed lightly. "We can do this." He said with a firm nod. "We've trained as hard as we could, and we finally have our dream realized. We've come too far to fail now."

Volcan nodded. "All for the future," he said, squeezing Luke's paw. "For us... And especially our son." Volcan sighed and smiled. "It's hard to believe it's only been three months since we took him in... I love Ignus like he's been there for years, and I so want to do what's best for him."

"And I share that sentiment, Volcan," Luke answered, "We'll give him the best possible life we can once this is all over."

Volcan nodded. "That's the goal," he said, "I'd like him to be able to grow up strong and happy, without having something like the Crusade hanging over him. Nobody deserves that."

"So long as we have each other... We_will_ succeed," Luke returned, sliding his arms around Volcan tightly and taking him into a gentle kiss, holding it for a few moments before pulling back. "We were a damn good team before we got married, and now that we are... I feel unstoppable."

Volcan smiled, lifting an arm to rest around Luke's waist. "Hold onto that feeling, love," he said, "We need all we can get for the challenges ahead."

"Agreed... especially considering who we have with us and how well she's been getting along with us..." Luke added with a bit of venom in his tone, then shook his head softly. "While we wait... fancy another game of Chess? I believe the record between us is three to two?"

"I'd lost count. Shall we start a new one?" Volcan offered. "Zero for zero and go from there?"

"I can agree to that," the Lucario answered with a smile.

While everyone aboard the airship settled in for the journey, Luke and Volcan enjoyed a quiet game of chess with each other. They played a few games; Volcan won two rounds, before Luke managed to get a win himself, until a clamour at the door caught their attention, and they turned to see Zamazenta peeking in.

"Oh, my apologies for the ruckus," he said, "It is difficult to move quietly while I am wearing my shield."

"No problem, Zamazenta," Volcan assured him, "Were you looking for us?"

"I was, in fact, yes," he replied, "May I come in?"

"Sure," Luke offered, gently beckoning Zamazenta to enter, "Is there something you need? Something we can help with?"

"Indeed," he replied, coming over to seat himself beside their table, looking at their game in progress. "Oh, but please, continue. I would like to see this. I will be quiet," he added the promise, and let the two resume their game.

Volcan shrugged and took his turn. The two carried on with their game, and true to his word Zamazenta never said a word as they played, nor moved more than slightly so as not to cause his shield to rattle. The two were able to all but forget he was there as they played, until eventually Luke was able to catch on to Volcan's strategy and begin moving his pieces accordingly, until...

"Whoops," the Blaziken said as Luke put his next piece down.

"That's check, love," Luke returned, leaning back and crossing his arms, "I've got a rook and a knight ready to move in once you escape my queen. Your move."

"Crap," the Blaziken said, studying the board. He only had five pieces left, but even if he moved his king, he wouldn't have the chance to move one of them before his king was in check again. Eventually, the Blaziken spotted a move he could make, and maneuvered his knight to block Luke's queen, taking the King out of check.

But Volcan had overlooked another of Luke's pieces. His bishop, which upon moving, was behind his king, out of reach of the knight and in line with the king if he moved. Volcan was trapped.

"Shoot," the Blaziken said, and sure enough, he realized he was in checkmate, as he could not move either his king or his knight without putting the former in check. "Well, that's that then. This round's yours, love."

"Good game though," Luke offered, reaching out to shake Volcan's hand. "You had me sweating several times."

"Well, that's two for two then," said Volcan.

"Well played, both of you," Zamazenta spoke up, "I should like to have a go with one of you myself sometime. But, I'm here to suggest a different contest."

Luke looked back at Zamazenta, arching an eyebrow at him curiously, "What did you have in mind?"

"I would like to request a sparring session with your team," Zamazenta replied, "It is my thought that if we are to be working together, we must know more about one another. Our strengths, our skills, areas where we might work with synchronicity."

Volcan hummed. "Actually, not a bad idea," he said.

"I agree. If we're going to be fighting alongside one another, we need a good handle on how they work as a unit, and how we can incorporate their strategies into ours," Luke added.

"Then we are agreed," said Zamazenta, nodding in approval, "Shall we proceed to the deck, so that we may address the helmsman to land at a suitable location?"

"Yes, let's do that," Luke agreed.

Volcan and Luke rose from their seats, and Zamazenta led the way out of the lower decks. Coming up to the deck, they went over to the helm, where they found Toby and asked him about their plans for sparring. Toby walked over to the railing to look over the side, considering the layout below.

"Well, I can't really land it out here - not enough room, but I can bring us low enough ya should be able to drop down without any problems," he explained. "Just gotta find a good clearing."

Going over to the railing, Luke and Volcan made out a clearing in the forest below to suit their needs and directed Toby toward it. The Meowth steered the ship to where they indicated, following their directions until they were over the clearing, and Toby brought the ship lower, hovering just below the tree line.

"What's going on?"

It was Neilla's voice, and Luke turned to see her coming up from below decks, rubbing her eyes. She had apparently been sleeping - or trying to. She looked very tired, rubbing her eyes even as she walked over.

"Oh, we're finding a spot to set down for a bit," Luke explained. "The Royal Knights want to have a quick sparring session in order to see how well we can work together."

Neilla nodded. "Sounds like a lot more interesting than just lying awake on that bunk bed," Neilla replied, covering her mouth with a paw as she yawned.

"I'm sorry if we disturbed you," Luke apologized.

"Eh, wasn't you," she assured him, waving her paw dismissively. "I can't sleep over the engines. This thing doesn't sound nearly so loud from outside, but below decks it's like this constant thrum in my ears."

"You get used to it overtime," Volcan offered with a shrug.

"Guess I ought to spend more time on boats," Neilla commented, "Anyway, I'll just root for you guys from up here. Show 'em what for," she leaned closer to them and added lowly, "especially Ms. Ray of Sunshine."

"To be honest, I think Minato has plans for that already," Luke returned in as low a tone as Neilla. "They looked like they were already at odds from the get-go, based on what we saw when we boarded."

"I was ready to knock some sense into her too, so I don't blame him," said Neilla, crossing her arms, and watching as her friends bounded over the side.

She went to the railing, leaning on it and peering over to watch, while the knights, followed by Minato and Lashanne, also went to ground level. Toby came over to stand beside the Lopunny to watch.

"...You a bettin' gal?" he asked her, "I got twenty on the big wolves."

"I'm from the city of art, not the city of sin," she returned flatly. But after a short pause, she added. "...Twenty on our guys, then."

"Couldn't pass it up, could ya?" The Meowth asked with a grin.

"You don't tell Aerendyl, I don't tell Lashanne you're betting against her."

Toby's smile disappeared in an instant.

Zamazenta began setting the rules for the sparring match. "This is purely a contest for us to get better acquainted with one another, and understand our skills and tactics," he announced, "Therefore there is no need to go all-out on one another," this seemed mostly directed to Zacian, and her scowl suggested she knew he meant her. "The fight will carry on until one side or the other capitulates."

With a shake of his head and body, eliciting a rattling sound, Zamazenta looked at the four to be his opponents, "I shall battle first. Who shall be my opponent? You may go one-on-one, or two-on-one as you wish; I promise you I can handle it."

Luke stepped forward after Zamazenta issued his challenge, rolling his head along his shoulders and shaking his arms as he approached the shield wolf. "I will accept your challenge," he replied with a firm nod.

"Want some backup, love?" Volcan offered, unsure if Luke wanted to take on Zamazenta himself or not.

"Thanks, but I want to see what he can do one-on-one first," Luke replied, adjusting his scarf.

Volcan nodded, and stayed beside Lashanne and Minato, watching the battle. Zamazenta stood with his paws spread out, and his shield changed. With a rattle, the segmented pieces formed into a solid face, and a loud _clank_announced that they had linked together, almost mechanical in their function. The shield that formed from the pieces became a single, dense barrier, with only his face and paws visible; the shield was so wide, it left no apparent openings on its wearer from the front.

It wasn't hard to deduce that this opponent would be physically tough, Luke analyzed. With that in mind, he devised a plan of attack, and he started by charging headlong toward the shield wolf in a burst of speed.

Midway through his run, he wound his paw back as if preparing an Aura Sphere. However, he subtly shifted his footing and was instantly at Zamazenta's left flank thanks to Extreme Speed, charging in with a Force Palm instead. Zamazenta caught the movement, and reacted surprisingly quickly, whirling around to face Luke and angling himself so that his shield took the blow, and just before impact, Luke noticed the shield glow brightly, and the shield wolf seemed barely fazed by his attack.

The glow came again, but this time of a different colour; the orange colour of a Fighting-type's energy, coating the edges. Zamazenta moved with surprising quickness, slamming into Luke with his full weight behind his shield, knocking the now winded Lucario back several meters. That hit felt like he had just been body-slammed by Katsumoto, yet Zamazenta had barely moved!

He managed to catch himself and skid to a stop before rubbing the spot where he was struck, narrowing his eyes slightly as he processed what just happened, and quickly deduced that his usual blitz tactic wasn't going to work against Zamazenta. He needed to alter his approach.

With that, he shifted stances, changing from his typical stance to a looser, more fluid stance, putting most of his weight on his back leg and holding his paws in front of him, keeping a composed, yet relaxed form. He closed his eyes and sighed deeply, then he flashed them open and stared at his opponent for a split second before charging forward, faster than his first attempt, and managed to catch Zamazenta off guard with a Bullet Punch to the forehead.

With that first strike, Luke suddenly started striking at different areas of Zamazenta's face, a pattern that Volcan recognized almost instantly since it was the same pattern Zheng had used on him during their last session. Once he was done, he quickly moved to his opponent's flank and changed his stance into a harder, more rigid stance, and struck at the wolf four times with strong blows. Punch, knee, elbow, then turning and slamming into him with his shoulder to send him skidding back.

Zamazenta was sent careening from the onslaught he had endured, crashing into a tree with a clamour as his shield loses its rigid form and takes on the segmented shapes again. He shakes his head, evidently dazed by the attack, and then turns to look at Luke in astonishment.

"Those attacks..." he said, a suspicious tone in his voice, "where did you learn them?"

"Courtesy of Masters Chen and Zheng." Luke answered with a smirk. "With a taste of Bullet Punch from Shamshir."

Zamazenta, as well as his sister, perked up at the mention of the names. "So, it's true you know the brothers?" Zamazenta asked.

Volcan spoke for them. "They resettled here in the East Continent," he said, "They built a new dojo halfway between Azure and Westport. We've been training with them all summer."

"We first met them during an investigation on Calhoun's origins, and we encountered Zheng when he was corrupted by the Shadow Curse," Luke explained. "I freed him from it, but it in turn made me corrupt. It was Chen that brought me back from my corrupted state, and... well, after we returned home, I suppose they decided to relocate and start a new life in the East."

"I see," said Zamazenta, "In any case, I am glad to hear they have resettled. Still, now that I know you have trained in under such masters as they," his shield returned to its solid form, "I must stay on guard."

Luke smiled a bit, then took his hard, strong stance again. "I'm curious as to how durable that shield is exactly," he said confidently.

"More than you can imagine," he says, before he started the next round, running at Luke to strike at him with Iron Head, attempting to ram him with the shield.

Luke quickly changed stances again into the more fluid Rapid Strike style, deftly weaving out of the way and retaliating with three quick strikes along Zamazenta's flank as he passed, then hopped back to gain some distance as the wolf turned to face him once again. The strikes barely seemed to faze Zamazenta, apparently physically tough even behind his shield, and bearing another surprise as he went for Luke again. His maw opened to reveal flaming fangs - a Fire Fang, as he sprang at Luke again, his shield folding once more to give him more agility.

This time, Luke took a firm stance and held one paw out, the other behind him. He waited as Zamazenta grew closer, right until he was within striking range. The second he saw the shield wolf's jaws start to go for the bite, Luke quickly slid out of the way and swung his rear paw forward, hitting Zamazenta square in the cheek with almost bone crushing force and sending the wolf veering off course.

Zamazenta reeled from the hit, the fire around his teeth vanishing as he shook the dizziness from himself and rounded on Luke again. He looked intrigued now, clearly impressed by the Lucario's power.

Luke waved his paws around him before assuming a hard stance again, his gaze now fiercely determined as he stared back at Zamazenta, even lifting a paw and beckoning for him to approach once more if he dared. Zamazenta took the invitation, this time rising on his hind legs as his foreclaws glowed and striking out at Luke with a Metal Claw.

Luke responded in kind, flexing his paws and summoning his own Metal Claw attack, rushing in and meeting each of Zamazenta's strikes with his own, the two of them canceling each other out and causing them to rear back from each other. Luke quickly retracted his paws and summoned his Bone Rush, wasting no time and moving in to start rapidly striking his opponent with strikes from both ends of his staff. They were light hits, but they were also quick, which complemented his training in the Rapid Strike style perfectly.

Zamazenta bobbed and weaved to the sides, making sure his shield caught every swing of Luke's bone rush, before he lunged forward, catching the bone between his teeth, and breaking it with a chomp, and then swung his back at Luke, the plumes along his back catching wind as he managed to kick out at Luke with his left hind leg. This time Luke was unable to dodge or counter it and took the kick full force. He was sent onto his back as a result, but he was quick to roll back to his feet and assume his stance again, smiling despite the hit he took.

"Good hit," he returned with a nod.

"Much obliged," said Zamazenta, smiling and chuckling. "I've not had such a spirited opponent in many years. You are worthy of the praise our King gave you when he sent us to join you."

"I should hope so. I've been training my ass off all Summer to get to where I am now," Luke remarked jokingly, "Had enough yet, or do you think you can handle another opponent?"

"I would welcome a second," Zamazenta replied.

"That'll be me then," said Volcan, stepping forth and coming to stand by Luke.

Luke smiled and held his paw up in a fist. "I'm curious to see what you've learned from your time with the Shifu brothers... and whether or not we can work their teachings into our own combos."

Volcan bumped his fist his husband. "Only one way to find out," he said as they faced Zamazenta, the Blaziken shifting to his more traditional stance, one leg forward and both fists raised, like a pair of cobras ready to strike.

Zamazenta advanced, and Volcan made the first move, meeting him halfway and lashing out with a kick. The shield wolf managed to stop himself and pull back, just avoiding the kick, and then snapped forward, attempting to slam into Volcan with his shield, but the Blaziken was quick, jumping back to avoid the slam, and clearing the way for Luke.

The Lucario ducked under Volcan as he jumped back, stomping his foot as he came to a stop and lashing out with the same combo he used before. Punch, knee, elbow, but rather than finishing with his shoulder, he then spun to the side and switched stances, striking rapidly along Zamazenta's side with sharp, precise attacks. Zamazenta stood his ground, bracing himself against the blows, even as Volcan charged in for another strike.

Off to the side, though, Lashanne noticed something. Zacian did not look concerned for her brother in this fight. In fact... She was smiling. She knew something...

Volcan came down with a kick, landing a direct hit to Zamazenta's shield when he moved to block it, and then it happened. The shield glowed, brightly, and Zamazenta's eyes filled with a yellow light that obscured his pupils. Volcan and Luke tensed, sensing danger, and both tried to get back, but they couldn't get away before it came.

Metal Burst.

Zamazenta threw back his head and howled as the damage he had endured exploded outward in a ripple of Steel-type energy, bombarding his two assailants and throwing them through the air. Luke grunted and shielded himself as he was thrown back, landing on his back and skidding to a halt, obscuring him from view with all the dust that was thrown up upon his landing. Volcan was sent hurtling past a tree, managing to catch a branch as he passed under it and ending his involuntary flight, letting out a sigh as he hung from his hands.

Zamazenta stood panting where he had been before unleashing his last ace in the hole. "That will do," he called, "I give this fight to the two of you."

"After you blasted us like that? Seemed like you were set for a comeback," said Volcan.

"I used Metal Burst specifically because you both possess typing resistance to it," Zamazenta explained, "but that damage I endured was significant. I've seen all I need to see."

Luke stepped out of the dust, coughing and waving it away from his face and shaking his head a few times. "Ugh... That hurt," he remarked. "Man, I can see why you're known as the Dauntless Shield..."

"It is a mantle I wear proudly," Zamazenta replied, "You two have shown you are every bit as strong as the King claimed. Stronger perhaps if you've been training since leaving his home. Well done."

"You honour us with your praise," Luke returned, smiling as he stepped closer to Zamazenta, offering his paw to him.

Zamazenta shifted his weight to balance on one forepaw and lifted the other to clasp around Luke's hand. "Thank you for the spar," he said, and repeated the gesture to Volcan. "Sister? It is your turn next."

She nodded and stepped up toward her brother, walking behind him and turning to stand beside him as he turned to vacate the battlefield. "I welcome any and all challengers who think they can stand against me," she boldly announced. "Step forward if you think you're worthy."

Luke's expression changed into a grimace when she made such a bold claim and was about to turn and accept her challenge when Minato suddenly stepped forward, holding his arm in front of the younger Lucario to stop him from stepping forward.

"I'll take you up on that claim," he announced, his expression serious. Volcan could see that look in Minato's eyes from where he stood, and he knew that his friend wasn't in the mood to fool around. There was a fire in his gaze, and it was directed at the Sword Wolf.

"I get the feeling he wants this himself," Lashanne commented, motioning for Luke and Volcan to come to join her outside the fighting ring.

The younger Lucario glanced back at Lashanne, then nodded in compliance and tugged on Volcan's arm to get him to follow before making his way back to Lashanne, standing next to her and watching the two of them intently.

"What do you suppose made Minato want to challenge her by himself?" He asked softly. "Was he really that bothered by her callousness earlier?"

"She hasn't exactly been the friendliest," Volcan commented, crossing his arms, "King Calyrex sent her and her brother to aid us, and Zamazenta insists she means well, but still... Could be Minato is just annoyed with her."

"He's your best friend, Love. You know him better than anyone," Luke remarked. "What did you see when you saw that look in his eyes?"

"Minato's changed a bit since the disaster," said Volcan, his eyes narrowing as he considered, "but if I had to put it into words... This feels like he's trying to prove something."

"I get a similar vibe," agreed Lashanne, "and from Zacian, I get the feeling she's not going to like what he reveals."

The two of them stared each other down for a time, then slowly started to circle one another at a slow pace, their gazes steady at first with neither one moving so much as a muscle to indicate they would attack. The silence was so unnerving that one could hear a pin drop, but it would be Zacian that would eventually break the silence between them.

"Are you just going to stare at me all day?" Zacian asked, growing impatient from all this waiting.

"Just letting you have the first move. Ladies first, after all," Minato responded calmly, "Or was it age before beauty? Can't really tell in this scenario."

Zacian's fur bristled for a moment before she calmed herself. "Your taunts will not work on me, young man," she countered, holding her head high, "I am a Royal Knight. I am above such petty tactics."

"Based on what you've displayed so far, I'd hardly call you a Knight," he shot back, clenching his right paw as he hid it along his side. "You certainly don't behave like one at least."

This time, Zacian narrowed her eyes dangerously at the Lucario. "If I were you... I would choose my next words carefully," she warned him, coming to a halt and planting her feet on the ground.

Minato then chuckled casually. "Did that get under your skin?" He asked. "I thought you were 'above such petty tactics...' Or was that just as empty as your title, Miss Intrepid Sword?"

That comment made Zacian snap. Her eyes widened in fury, and in one swift movement she drew her sword and leapt forward, swinging the Crown Sword as she spun. Minato quickly flexed his hidden paw and created his own sword, weaving out of the way of her strike and letting her sword pass harmlessly over him before he rose and held the point of his blade at the back of her neck.

She flinched again, but growled and used her golden wings to push Minato's blade away, then turned to swing at him again with her sword. The Lucario weaved around the first strike, then switched his blade to a reverse grip and blocked the second strike, holding them in a stalemate for a few moments before they pushed away from one another.

Minato quickly shot a few Aura Spheres at her as they skidded to a halt, to which she deflected each blast promptly with her sword before countering with a Moonblast, gathering lunar energy to her sword and focusing it at the tip, then swinging the sword and discharging a large blast toward Minato. To her surprise, he ran right toward it, leaping upward at the last second and arching over the blast as it traveled under him, then he righted himself and swung his blade down upon Zacian, who blocked his strike just before it reached her.

From there, the two engaged in a fierce dance of blades. Minato was caught off guard with how adept she was with fighting with a sword in her mouth, but while she managed to compensate for the lack of versatility with her powerful strikes, Minato had just that: versatility. He was able to maneuver his sword in ways that she couldn't, switching grips and angles to deny her a solid blow. On top of that, Zacian's strikes were powerful, but she was slowly being blinded by her anger toward the Lucario's earlier insults, whereas he remained steady and focused throughout their entire dance.

"Sister... Compose yourself!" The others hear Zamazenta hissing through clenched teeth, seeing that Zacian had taken Minato's bait, but knew he could not interfere without dishonouring her....

They eventually arrived at another stalemate, their gazes locking as they struggled to push each other over.

"You call yourself a knight," Minato began, growling through grit teeth as he held his ground, "but ever since you arrived with your brother, all you've been focused on is stamping out the evil that threatens the world. I'm not familiar with the customs of Calygrad, but even I know enough to understand that a knight protects the weak, not brush them aside for the greater good!" He concluded, letting more of his anger show as his glare intensified. "You sounded like you were willing to let my new home die just for the sake of your damn mission!"

"I would gladly lay my life on the line to protect the innocent, you knave!" She growled back, "But I'm not so naive that I am aware that one cannot save _every_Pokémon in need of help. As a member of the Guilds yourself, you should understand that one must make harsh decisions to achieve the best possible outcome!"

"Not at the expense of innocent lives! Not when you can do everything in your power to prevent losses!" Minato shouted suddenly, stepping back and pulling his blade away from the stalemate. Zacian stumbled forward, right into Minato's knee as he lifted his leg, nailing her square in the nose and sending her reeling back, to which he followed through with a Psychic blast that sent her skidding back a considerable distance. He then pointed his sword in her direction.

"You're so obsessed with destroying evil that you've developed a sort of tunnel vision effect. You're blinded to everything else around you. That's everything a knight isn't supposed to represent!" He then narrowed his eyes dangerously. "If I didn't know any better... I'd say you were less focused on protecting everyone else, and more focused on protecting your fragile ego."

Once again, Zacian grew enraged, her fur bristled to the point that every strand stood on end and her teeth gnashed against the handle of her blade. "Silence, knave!!" She roared angrily, then tilted her blade so it was pointed up. Light started shining along the entire edge of the blade, not like the Moonblast she conjured earlier.

This time the energy around her blade was a light sky blue, and it caused her blade to quadruple in length, towering over her like a pillar of light. "I will not be talked down to by a whelp like you!!" She hollered angrily before she swung the blade down on the Lucario, looking as though she was aiming to cleave him right in two with her sword.

"Zacian, don't!" Zamazenta shouted, his shield solidifying as he prepared to jump in, but he wouldn't make it in time.

Minato's glare hardened and he relaxed his paw, dispersing his sword and holding his paws ready as the massive energy sword came down on him. He grunted as he swung his arms up, managing to catch the sword between his paws and stop the sword from cutting him right in two, but the force of the impact caused the ground under him to collapse slightly. Regardless though, he held his ground, straining to keep the sword at bay with all his strength.

Then, his paws started to glow the longer he held the blade back, and to Zacian's shock, she could see that he was absorbing the power of her Behemoth Blade into his paws, making the sword lose its shape and revert into its normal form. She nearly dropped her sword as she watched him perform the unthinkable, then flinched when she blinked and saw that he was right in front of her, rearing his paw back for a Force Palm enhanced with the energy he had just absorbed.

He roared, thrusting his paw forward and right for her head. The energy that came out of his paw was like that of a massive cannon, shooting past the Sword Wolf and impacting a nearby hill that literally exploded when the blast made contact. From where they stood, everyone had through the blast went right through Zacian's head, but their concerns were abated when they saw the Lucario pull his paw back and there was no blood on his arm, indicating that he redirected his attack at the last minute to have it shoot past Zacian, not through her.

The two of them were once again locking gazes, although this time, Zacian wore a look of stunned shock in her eyes as she stared back into the furious glare of the Lucario. Slowly his glare relaxed a bit, but still held its sternness as he spoke once more.

"Case in point," he growled, "you don't care about those you swore to protect... You only fight for yourself." He concluded before walking around her, pushing into her with his shoulder aggressively as he passed by. "Some Knight you are."

"That is enough!" Zamazenta's voice boomed, and Minato felt his glare was on him, though he was walking over to Zacian, staring at Minato until he was almost right in front of his sister, and then turned on her. "You, sister, overstepped! The Behemoth Blade is not for use on your allies! That is a strike meant to fell titans, not individuals! What were you thinking?!"

She at first couldn't form any words to say. Her mouth opened, but nothing came out. In her mind she was still reeling that a run-of-the-mill Lucario managed to defy the impossible and turn her own attack against her, not even thinking about the ramifications of her strike had she succeeded in hitting him. Her gaze darted back and forth for a moment before it contorted into a scowl, swinging her head to the side to place her sword between the wings on her back.

"I do not have to take any sort of ill tongue from some knave," she growled, then looked back to her brother aggressively, "And I especially don't need to be lectured on how I use my abilities!" She concluded before turning abruptly away from him and stormed off.

"Zacian!" He calls after her, but she ignores her. Growling, he rounded on Minato, clearly wanting to say something to him, but whatever words he wanted to say did not find their way to his voice, and his lips are only drawn back in a snarl... But he didn't make a sound.

When he approached the rest of his team, they all had collective scowls on their faces as they regarded Minato, with Luke stepping forward and speaking up first. "I get that you were no doubt trying to prove a point," he began, "but provoking her into using an attack that would have killed you is uncalled for! We're supposed to be working alongside the Royal Knights, not antagonizing them!"

"I'm sorry hun but I'm with Luke on that," Lashanne agreed, "I may not know how you shrank her blade but... Heck, did you even know you could do that? And what was that, anyway?"

"The sword was expanded by her Aura," replied Minato, "She left me an opening, I took it, by drawing the power out of her sword and dispersing it."

"This is not off to a good start," Volcan muttered, but he didn't berate Minato. Perhaps the Blaziken saw how much Zacian needed to be taught that lesson, yet still wanted to believe there could have been a better way...

The elder Lucario let out a sigh and closed his eyes. "I won't deny I took things too far." Minato admitted, looking at each of his teammates before looking over his shoulder at the sulking Zacian. "But she needed that kick in the face, both metaphorically and literally, in order to see just how wrong she is in her train of thought," he added, "she needs to see the bigger picture, not focus solely on building her ego as a Royal Knight."

The others looked at each other. No one disagreed with Minato's sentiment, even if they didn't approve of the method. Volcan was the next one to speak, sounding uncertain for the first time in several months.

"What happens now, then?" He asked.

"I'd say we're done sparring with each other." Luke replied, still looking disapprovingly at Minato. "Let's continue with our journey. We've seen what they can do and they've seen what we can do. We'll worry about what happens next when we cross that bridge."

Volcan sighed. "Nothing else for it then... Alright. Let's get them back aboard the ship and carry on."