Act X: Special Episode
Chapter 10: Growth
2000 AU
The storms of Arthus’ coming had long since quieted, the raging rains finally stilled. Moonlight peeked through the clouds, and the wild Pokémon dared to venture from their homes, confident that the Usurper had sated his fury. The forests of Serenita spread across the center of the continent, enclosing a low boulder, the jagged entrance housing a single individual.
In the low-roofed cave, the entrance dark and the air musty, a Zorua slept on a pillow, blinking awake and yawning. She looked about, then froze, recalling the events from before she somehow slept. She whimpered, then began to cry.
Footsteps echoed into the cave, and the Zorua looked up. She saw a Zoroark with graying fur charge in, wheezing, holding his chest. She first thought it was a stranger, but saw the distinctive blue eyes, the eyes that looked so much like her father’s.
“I’m here! I’m here!” he wheezed. His eyes softened upon seeing the Zorua, his rage hours ago gone.
The Zorua ran for Arthus pressing her head against his legs and weeping. Arthus stared at her, perplexed, then smiled, picking her up and cradling her. “You think I’m your dad, don’t you? My eyes…” He looked up, forcing a laugh. “I thought he looked a little like me.” He petted the Zorua, saying, “I am sorry for what had to happen. I never wanted a child like you to cry because of me.”
He sat in the center of the cave, pulling up the cushion. “Do you know your name?” The Zorua cocked her head, sniffing. Arthus shook his head. “Right, how could I forget; you’re too young. They wouldn’t have named you until you cast your first illusion.” He set her on the cushion, then set his claws on her head, red light flashing beneath them. She fell asleep, but the light continued. “Considering the circumstances, however, I think that we can make an exception.”
Arthus thought for a moment, then made a small smile. “I know your name.” He lifted his claw, ensuring that she had no memory of her true parents. “I’ll name you what Corrina had considered for a name for a daughter…if we ever had one…” He lay on the floor, curling around the Zorua, then closed his eyes for sleep.
“Cassia.”
~~~~
At the gate of a massive fortress, set in the center of a vast canyon, the morning had only just broken over the horizon. Murkrow already flew from their nests in search of shiny belongings. Rust-colored dust swept around the structure, coating the desolate scene with a metallic scent.
Cassia sat on the pillow, curled up into a terrified ball. Arthus held her aloft as he knocked on the gate. Afterward, he patted her head and said, “It’s alright Cassia; I think you will enjoy living here with me.” The door creaked open, and Arthus snapped his fingers, a rush of wind blowing past them.
Pokémon of all sorts carried sacks onto large carts, while others carried them over their backs and shoulders. Another group of Pokémon dug holes, helping the others throw the sacks inside. Rising high above the Pokémon, a marvelous tower stretched above, and perched atop it was a solitary Dusknoir—his eye a perfect red sphere--looking across the scene with a grim face.
Arthus waved his free hand and exclaimed, “Guildmaster Gardner!” The Dusknoir twisted his head with a dull glance, then his eye widened when he noticed Cassia.
The ghost leapt off the top of the Tower and drew close to Arthus and Cassia. “What are you thinking, bringing a child here! Do you see all—this!” He waved to the sacks, at which Cassia cocked her head, bewildered.
Arthus leaned close and jerked the Guildmaster toward his face. “Since when did you grow a heart? I made sure to disguise…you-know-what, before I entered. All she sees are sacks of berries.”
Gardner nodded his head slowly. “So, no blood, no—”
“No nothing! Keep it down!” the Usurper hissed. He looked down at Cassia and whispered. “I’d rather not have her discover my…admittedly, weaker side.”
Gardner grunted, then said, “Whatever you wish, even if I don’t entirely understand.” He leaned over Cassia, scrutinizing her. The Zorua crept back to Arthus, menaced by the crimson eye.
Arthus bared his teeth and swatted the Dusknoir away, leaving him to rub his chin. The Usurper crooned over Cassia and exclaimed, “I want her to feel safe in this place, not like she’ll ambushed in her sleep!”
“As you said moments before, ‘when did you grow a heart?’ You’re the same Pokémon that—” he gave a glance to Cassia, “disposed of all these sacks, and took back the Seal of Creation! And now you want to raise that?”
Arthus pushed a claw into Gardner’s chest. “Her name is Cassia, and I don’t care for your tone. I didn’t release you only to chastise me.”
Gardner held up his hands defensively, backing away. “I only have concerns about how it could affect you. Have you ever raised a child? Will this hinder your plans?”
Arthus’ claw shook, then fell, his eyes losing their luster. “I had the chance, years ago. And I ruined it. Before all is done,” he clenched his fist, then with loose restraint, growled, “I want to prove that I can still be a father to someone, no matter what Matheus said.”
Gardner stared for a moment, then shrugged. “Whatever you wish, Lord Arthus. I have no say in your actions.” He gestured to the Pokémon carrying ‘sacks’. “This is nearly taken care of. What would you have me do next?”
Arthus tapped his chin. “You remember my previous offer, yes? Involving the Arceists?”
Gardner’s perfect eye glowed brighter. “Yes. Is it time?”
Arthus grabbed Gardner’s arm with a smile. “Go have your revenge.” Arthus’ face curled into a sneer. “Do whatever you need to get rid of those liars.”
Gardner nodded, chuckling. “Understood, Lord Arthus.” He hovered away, gathering Guild Pokémon to him.
Cassia looked up to Arthus, who patted her back, sighing. “I don’t enjoy talking about these things with you here. We must get a room where we can be by ourselves.” He pulled at a passing Jumpluff and said, “Can you gather up any toys and children’s books you can find? I want to ensure that Cassia is well taken care of.”
The Jumpluff nodded, then went off to do as he said. Arthus sighed, walking toward a small abandoned house in the corner of the wall. “It feels good to be respected again.”
~~~~
2004 AU
Arthus sat on a chair in a brightly colored room, Cassia curled up on his lap. Toys of all sorts were gathered in the corner, tucked away for the coming night, while a pile of books lay stacked next to the chair.
The Usurper closed a book with a satisfied sigh. “Well, I think that is all the reading we’ll do tonight.” Cassia leapt off his lap and pointed to an aged book sitting midway through the stack.
Arthus studied it, his eyes widening with surprise. “You want to read that? Why on Equivos would you want to read about Arceus?” He shook his head, setting aside the book in his claws and picking up Cassia. “Even if I wanted to read that to you, it is time to sleep. We’ll be starting your training tomorrow; we can’t have a Zorua that can’t fool Pokémon.” He set her on her pillow and tapped her nose playfully, while she looked up sadly. “Good night.” Arthus walked out of the room, shutting the door with a gentle click.
The Zorua opened her eyes again, looking longingly at the Tome. Her eyes soon grew heavy, then she fell asleep.
~~~~
Cassia now stood behind the house in a fenced enclosure, the heat of the afternoon seeping into her body. She and Arthus stood facing each other, with Arthus on all fours to better demonstrate to the Zorua.
“Listen closely, Cassia; I want you make yourself look like an Eevee. Do you know how an Eevee looks like?”
“What’s an Eevee?” Cassia asked, still getting used to speaking.
Arthus grinned. “An Eevee looks like this.” He snapped his fingers, and a brown-furred Pokémon appeared in front of Cassia, her ears wavering slightly in the wind.
Cassia came closer to it, then tried to touch it, her paw passing through the illusion. “But it isn’t there!”
“That’s what illusions are! They are only appearances. If we could actually create things like that, we’d be like Arceus!” He pushed Cassia gently away. “Now, look at where you want an Eevee to appear, then make a gesture to focus it. Myself, I snap my fingers, but given that you currently have none, you’ll have to make do with something else.” The Eevee faded, and Arthus stepped back, allowing his student more room.
Cassia studied the space in front of her, imagining Arthus’ Eevee standing there. She then waved her paw to the right, and the wind rushed, and a somewhat-fuzzy Eevee appeared in front of her, patches occasionally phasing out of the conjuring.
Arthus stood up and laughed, clapping his hands. “Bravo, bravo! Well done for your first try!” Cassia beamed, looking away from the spot. The Eevee quickly dissipated.
Cassia’s ears drooped. “It’s gone…”
Arthus tutted, coming next to Cassia and stroking her head. “Oh, it’s not your fault; it takes time, that’s all.”
“Lord Arthus!”
Arthus whipped his head to the fence, giving it an evil look. “Excuse me for a second.” He stood up and marched to the fence, where the head of a Dusknoir poked through the seemingly-empty scene.
Arthus shoved him back and crossed over the fence, leaving Cassia by herself. The Zorua focused her thoughts on the empty grass once more, saying to herself, “I want to make an Eevee…like Dad’s…” The fuzzy Eevee appeared once more, patches and all.
Cassia drooped once more. “No, like Dad’s!” The Eevee focused itself slightly.
She stamped her foot, red mist suddenly trailing out of the ground. “Look like Dad’s, please!” The red mist swirled around the Eevee, and all the detail of the Usurper’s handiwork appeared, complete with a warm smile.
“How do you do, Cassia?” the Eevee asked.
Arthus burst out from the fence, and asked, “Who said that!” His jaw hung as he noticed the red mist underneath Cassia’s feet, wrapping around the Eevee in an ethereal manner.
“How—when—” He held his head, muttering to himself as he thought. “Yes…he was in the room…that explains…” He looked up and grinned. “This changes things.” He stooped to Cassia’s level and grabbed her forelimbs. “Do you know what you just did?”
“Did I do something wrong?” she asked, shrinking slightly.
Arthus laughed, shaking his head. “No! In fact, you’ve done something better than I could have imagined: you used Life! I always thought there was a deposit around here, but it was so small that I didn’t bother with it!”
“What do you mean?”
“It means I can teach you not only what it means to be a Zorua, but also what it means to be a descendant of Arthus Zoroark.”
~~~~
Arthus sat cross-legged in front of Cassia, his eyes closed, and his fingers interlocked. Cassia sat on her haunches expectantly, wondering what he was going to do.
Arthus opened his eyes and said, “In all Pokémon, there is this force called Life. Most are unable to use it, outside of the Ghosts, who feed on it, and the Lucario, who are able to derive another force called Aura from it. In the distant past, a civilization used it to power machines and even bring things to life but could never use it themselves. None were able to use Life until I made the sacrifice necessary to claim it. And now, this power has passed on to you.” He held up and outstretched claw, red flame suddenly erupting from his palm. Cassia leapt back in surprise, never before seeing such power.
Arthus grinned. “This is a powerful energy, one that only you and I can use. I learned from my mentor, Gregorius, how to use it, and now you shall learn from me. It will take years of work, but you can become a master of it around when you master your illusions, if you practice.”
“What can Life do?” Cassia asked.
“Many things. It can be used to heal the sick and wounded, to travel across Serenita in a blink of an eye, and to augment your natural powers.” His face turned darker. “But there is more. Used in its raw shape, Life can be used to attack your enemies, as well as to take their own Life.” He shook his head. “But let’s not dwell on such things. That can wait for when I train you in combat, when you evolve. You’re around three now, so expect that to come ten years from now.” He dimmed the flame. “Until then, we will focus on how to draw it from the ground, and how to empower your illusions through it.”
“Where does it come from?”
Arthus paused for a moment, then quietly said, “The remains of those who have died—and, sometimes, the living.”
~~~~
2006 AU
Arthus nodded his head at the Eevee that stood before him, applauding. “Bravo, bravo! You’ve come so far!”
The Eevee faded, revealing it to be Cassia, grinning. “You really think so?”
Arthus scooped her up and laughed, “Of course! Why would I lie to you?” He suddenly stopped and twitched his head. He set her down, then sighed. “The Guild Council needs me again.” He pointed at a straw dummy and explained, “Practice your scratches on that while I’m gone. It’ll hopefully be short.” The young Zorua nodded sadly, then went on to scratch at the dummy methodically with her claws.
Arthus leapt over the fence and beyond the barrier, holding his arms behind his back as he muttered to himself. Crossing various Pokémon, he stamped up the steps of the tower and sat at a table where Gardner, a Bibarel, Hypno, and Wigglytuff all sat waiting.
“I have important business I want to take care of, so let’s make this quick,” Arthus muttered.
“We’ll certainly try; we don’t like taking your time either,” Gardner replied. He pointed at a map spread across the table, moving to various locations. “All ties with Calem Lucario have been eliminated; all Guild Outposts are loyal only to you. Cretea is without Guild resources, but none have returned since the storms came six years ago. Therefore, we see it unnecessary to form a new outpost there.”
“Agreed. Why do you need me here exactly?” Arthus sighed. All eyes turned to the Wigglytuff.
His ears drooped, and he cleared his throat. “Well, sir—Lord, we’re just curious if you have any other motives outside of the good of the world.” Arthus rose, his eyes growing wild. He stepped closer, and the Wigglytuff stuttered, “I-It’s not that we’re questioning your leadership, i-it’s just that Calem was a little more…” Arthus eyes pressed right against his. “Direct?”
Arthus backed away, scratching his cheek. “You’re lucky I want to keep a good appearance.” He gestured to the entire council, stepping away from the shivering Wigglytuff. “I haven’t been very forthright with you, have I? I’ve just been off in my own little world, letting Gardner take care of the Guild and allowing you to,” he fluttered his claws toward the Hypno, Wigglytuff and Bibarel, “do whatever you do around this place.”
The Zoroark shook his head, sighing. “You may think I’m not all there. Maybe I’m just a mad-Pokémon, doing things just because I can. You might even think that I don’t believe in the good of the world, and just want to watch it burn.” He swept to the Wigglytuff and grabbed his ears. “But I will tell you right now: I want the world to no longer suffer anger, fear, or sadness. I do have another motive, but I will let that secret die with Matheus!” He released the Wigglytuff and huffed, brushing back his mane. “If there is nothing else, I’ll be leaving.”
The Council made no move to stop him from descending the steps.
~~~~
The Usurper sat on his favorite chair, holding a pad of paper and a stick of charcoal. He gently drew lines, creating a graceful figure and shading it.
Cassia hopped onto the top of the chair, peering at the handiwork. “Are you drawing?”
Arthus nodded his head, keeping his gaze on the paper. “Yes.”
“Why are you doing that? I thought you liked illusions more?”
Arthus held up the sketch, showing a slight, female Zoroark with a simple necklace around her neck. Cassia gazed at it in awe.
He pulled it back, then continued adding the finishing touches. “Illusions may be a wonderful thing, but their purpose is to trick the mind, to make Pokémon believe something is what it isn’t.” He took a blob of clay from the corner, rubbing away a mistake. “But drawing is a way to show your emotions, to show what you think of something or someone. Illusions are powerful, yes,” he closed the pad, patting the cover, “but are no way to show your true feelings.”
Cassia leapt onto Arthus’ lap. “Can you teach me how to draw?”
Arthus looked down at her, patting her head with a smile. “When you evolve, I would love to.”
~~~~
“’And so, the Mightyena ran into the sunset, never to be seen again.’” Arthus closed the book, setting it on the stack. He rubbed his throat, clearing it. “These books are getting a tad long for me to be reading like this every night,” he croaked.
Cassia hopped onto her bed, exclaiming, “Maybe I can start reading them!”
Arthus laughed, putting his claw to his head. “Of course, you’re old enough now! May as well; being able to read is important after all.” He opened the door, then said, “We’ll start tomorrow, alongside your other studies.” He shut the door, and Cassia directed her gaze to the aged book toward the bottom of the stack.
“Then I can read you again…” she thought.
~~~~
2014 AU
In Cassia’s room, by a flickering red flame on a candle, the Zorua read from the Arceist Tome, the words calling to her as they did when she was younger.
And the Usurper shall come and attempt to take my Life but shall ultimately fail at the hands of the Guardian. The Usurper, through his actions, shall lose all that he held dear, and will strive to reclaim them. From him, learn that my creations are free to make choices, but cannot choose, or change, their consequences.
A knock came at the door. “Cassia, I’m coming in!”
The Zorua hurriedly closed the Tome and shoved it underneath a shelf, then pulled down another book.
Arthus opened the door, laughing slightly. “Still have to get used to that; I haven’t had a little thirteen-year-old before.” He closed the door, then craned over Cassia, studying the pages. “Reading ‘The Pikachu and his Travelling Joltik’, hmm?”
Cassia nodded quickly, saying, “Yep, been wanting to for a while.”
Arthus nodded as well, sitting at his usual seat. “Lovely story. Anyway, how are you feeling about your birthday coming up? Ready to evolve?”
Cassia shifted uncomfortably, looking at her paws. “I don’t know. I like me right now; what if I don’t like being a Zoroark?”
Arthus pet her head, sighing, “Well, I won’t be able to pet you like this once you evolve, so I’m not looking forward to that.”
Cassia pulled away, giggling. “You know I don’t like that.”
Arthus gazed at her in mock surprise. “Really?” He made a small chuckle, then said, “I remember when I evolved. Me and my…best friend, evolved on the same day. We both had to get used to our new bodies together.” His cheerful demeanor vanished. “It was especially hard for me, since my parents had been gone for years. I didn’t know how to get used to my body, or what things would change.” He shook his head, looking down to Cassia. “But I’m here to help you. I’ll make sure you won’t feel afraid when it happens.”
“You promise?”
Arthus nodded. “Promise.” He studied his claws, watching mist course between them. “After you get adjusted, we’ll start with your training. You can’t stay under my watch forever; the world’s still a dark place, and until I find a solution, I have to make sure that you’re safe.”
“What will we do?”
“Well, we’ll start with basic attacks, then upgrade to what you can do with Life.” He held Cassia’s paw, giving her a hard look. “I want you to promise me that you won’t question what I ask you to do. I am a very busy Pokémon, what with a Guild to run. Will you do that for me?”
Unsure of what he intended with that, Cassia nodded her head.
Arthus nodded back, then stood up. “I’ll let you get to sleep now.” He stood up, then opened the door.
“Wait, Dad?” Cassia asked. Arthus stopped, turning his head. “Do you know who the Usurper is?”
Arthus’ eye twitched, then he rubbed it, growling. “When did you hear that name?”
“I just…came across it while reading. I was wondering if you knew.”
Arthus gave her a suspicious look, then sighed. “That was a title given to me, years ago. I’m a lot older than you think, Cassia. I’d rather not speak of such things right now.” He exited the room and closed the door.
Cassia pondered on what he said, thinking of the Tome. ‘He’s supposed to be one of the cruelest Pokemon alive…he’d even bring Arceus down.’ She closed the book, shaking her head. ‘But he’s only even been nice to me. He just couldn’t be the Usurper.’
She curled up on her cushion and closed eyes. After a few moments, she looked up fearfully.
‘Right?’
~~~~
Days later, Arthus stood in front of Cassia in the center of the room, the furniture pushed to the corners to make room.
“Any moment now, your name will change from Cassia Zorua to Cassia Zoroark. How do you feel?” he asked.
Cassia smiled nervously, standing in front of him. “Excited, but scared. What will it feel like?”
The Usurper sighed wistfully. “Ah, like nothing else. It’s been so long since I evolved, so I can’t really say.” He looked out the window, seeing the sky turn from orange to purple. “Any moment now.”
Cassia began to shake. “I feel…light, like there’s nothing wrong with anything.” White light suddenly enveloped her, her shape becoming indistinct. The light morphed taller, leaner, and brighter, while Arthus looked on, feeling happier than he had ever felt in millennia.
The light faded, and a graceful young Zoroark stood in Cassia’s place. She gasped as she noticed her arms, no longer the paws she had been used to all her life. She reached for her luxurious mane, free of the bead that her adoptive father had for his own.
She looked toward him and stepped forward. “Look at—wah!” She tripped on her feet, unused to walking on two limbs.
Arthus dove forward and caught Cassia, holding her up. She looked up, and Arthus smiled. “If only Corrina could see this…”
“Who’s Corrina?”
Arthus’ smile dissipated. “My…wife.” He helped her stand up, then held her face, cringing. “You look so much like her.” He pointed to her eyes. “Except your eyes. They’re mine, of course.” He pointed to his own, quivering. “It’s been so long since I’ve seen her. I only want her at my side again.” He covered his eyes, a tear trailing out from under his hand.
Cassia looked down at her arms, then embraced Arthus, the Usurper falling onto her. He sniffed, then said, “I haven’t been hugged since before she died.” He continued to grieve, his chest shaking.
Cassia patted him, then quietly asked, “You never talk about her. Why?”
“…It is too hard for me to remember how, and why, she died.”
~~~~
Several days later, Arthus and Cassia stood opposite each other in the training yard, crouching with their claws extended.
“Alright, day one. Come at me with what you’ve got,” Arthus stated.
Cassia hesitated, then with a yell, charged toward him, her claws ready to strike. Arthus deftly dodged, then pushed her to the ground, shaking his head with disapproval. “We Zoroark don’t make direct attacks…not like that, at least,” he chided. “Come in from the side and use your illusions to hide your direction. We have the element of surprise no matter what we do, if done right.”
“Lord Arthus, I bear good news!” Gardner appeared from behind the barrier, his eye wide.
Arthus leaned to Cassia, who had since picked herself up. “Watch me.” He disappeared, and both she and Gardner looked around, searching for him.
Gardner suddenly arced back with a grunt, his head pulled back. Arthus appeared behind him, chuckling, his arm pinned behind the Ghost. “That is how a Zoroark strikes.”
“Would you please let me go? I have news about your search for a bodyguard,” Gardner hissed, looking left and right.
Arthus promptly released him and whipped around to face him. “Ah, that is something I’ve been waiting to hear! Bring me to him!” Gardner exited the barrier, and Arthus motioned for Cassia to follow. “Come! It’s high time I showed you the rest of my Guild!” He leapt over the fence, the barrier of sky rippling as he disappeared through it.
Cassia blinked, following him hesitantly. She crawled over the top of the fence and gasped at what she saw: Black-banded Pokémon rushed to and from various buildings, all talking and carrying goods with them. All the activity surrounded an ancient tower, the bricks cracked and the height astounding.
A troupe of Gurdurr pounded past Cassia, and she eeped, running toward Arthus and hiding behind his back. He forced a smile, patting her hand. “I guess I should have taken you out more often. Still, no time like the present to socialize.” He guided her across the grounds, all other Pokémon staying away from the Usurper.
She noticed many of the Pokémon give him fearful looks; they avoided meeting his gaze. All except an elderly Alakazam avoided looking at them. He stroked his mustache thoughtfully, narrowing his eyes.
Cassia drew closer to Arthus and said, “Why do they seem afraid of you?”
Arthus waved a nonchalant hand. “No reason in particular. Can’t expect everyone to be brave around their leader, can you?” He gasped, grabbing Cassia’s hand and running ahead. “Oh, Gardner has outdone himself this time. Just look at this!”
They came to the corner of the canyon, and Cassia stood in awe at the massive automaton leaning against the wall. A hulking Golurk, covered in moss and cracks, stood as if sleeping, its light out.
Gardner patted its leg and exclaimed, “As you know, there’s few of them left due to the high amount of Life needed to keep them going. I figure that you, with your control of it, can make him work again. Few would be able to challenge him and succeed.”
Arthus chuckled, holding up a hand. “Perfect. I can take care of myself pretty well, but one can always do with another protection. Besides, he will make an excellent training dummy for Cassia; claws will hardly hurt him, and we can siphon his life without fear of killing someone.”
Gardner huffed and rolled his eye. “Huh, ironic.”
Arthus grabbed his neck and shook him. “Quiet.” He turned to the Golurk, then pressed his hand against it. “Awaken!” Red mist coursed down his arm into the giant frame, the light within beginning to flicker.
Arthus pressed harder as Cassia stepped back. “Awaken!” Red tendrils erupted from the ground, feeding more into the giant. The cyan stone slowly turned black and grey, and the yellow light turned orange, then red. He began to shake, then stood upright, rolling his shoulders as more Life surged into him.
Finally, he roared, shaking free of Arthus’ grip. He fell back, and the tendrils sank back into the ground, the weakened Usurper no longer having his previous strength.
The Golurk stood still, studying his surroundings. Cassia stared at him fearfully, her eyes wide as the giant turned.
It fell to one knee, leaning forward and bowing his head. “Prepared for service, master. What are your orders?” it said in metallic tones.
Arthus coughed, standing up with a grin. “Ah, it works!” He covered his mouth and coughed again, stepping toward him. “What is your name, servant?”
“Designation: Gorson Rensil Orma Moccin.”
Arthus cringed. “That’s strange. Why do you have four names instead of one?”
“It was customary—4000 years ago—to receive more names as indication of prowess,” the Golurk replied.
Arthus rubbed his chin, thinking. “Well, I can’t be calling you Gorsonrensil-whatever-whatever all the time. How about a contraction, like…Grom?”
The Golurk’s eyes blinked, then he nodded. “Nickname confirmed. I will respond to ‘Grom’ until you so choose to change it.”
“Excellent!” He pulled Cassia closer. “Meet your new sparring partner! He will be extremely useful in training I’m sure!” Cassia looked up at the Golurk, frozen.
Grom stood straight, offering his hand to her. “Designation: Grom. What is yours?”
Cassia looked down at the hand, then cautiously shook it. “Cassia.”
The eyes blinked, then he nodded. “Good morning—Cassia. It will be a pleasure to serve both you and the master.”
~~~~
2018 AU
Cassia sat on a stump, drawing on a pad of paper. Arthus hovered behind her, catching glimpses of her handiwork.
“You have gotten quite good. I’m amazed how well you can draw.”
Cassia held up her drawing of the Guild’s gate proudly. “You really think so?”
Arthus nodded. “I know so.” He looked up, noticing the sky turning orange. “Best be going to sleep now. I won’t be able to visit tonight; important Guild business and all that.”
Cassia closed the pad and stood up, hurriedly walking for the house. “No worries, I’ll be fine!” She entered the room, Arthus giving her a curious look.
She set the sketchpad on the counter and pulled the Arceist Tome from underneath. She sat on the center chair, then opened the covers, pulling out a length of leather for a bookmark.
Origin 4--
After the Starfall, peace reigned throughout the land. However, 1000 years after the creation, wild Pokemon grew more dangerous and many of the Enlightened wished worse for others.
However, this time of peace soon turned for the worse. In a time of great need, Arceus sent the Legend Mewtwo to save the village of Vaures from a horde of wild Pokémon. This was met with great praise, and upon returning to Deitae, Mewtwo became prideful of his powers.
He descended upon the wild Pokémon of Equivos and those who challenged Arceus with a fury, so much that he became the hero of Serenita and Cretea. Lavish gifts were given to him, and many began to worship the Legend instead of Arceus.
Mewtwo grew fearful of the very Pokémon he protected. He feared that the Pokémon he defeated would conspire against him, and so he dealt harsh punishments to the Pokémon of Deitae. Factions guided even by the other Legends of Deitae rose up against Mewtwo, while others more stood alongside the Rogue. Wars followed, and the land was devastated by their might.
In the mightiest of these skirmishes, Arceus exited the Tree of Life and punished Mewtwo for intervening in the lives of mortal Pokémon. He then proclaimed that Legends shall only come out of Deitae once every full moon, and only under his direction after that.
As punishment for if a Legend were to enter the mortal continents, Arceus crafted the Seal of Creation, a device designed to absorb Legends, and grant the user full protection from their might, even granting the abilities of those lost to its touch.
Mewtwo was banished to the Isle of Regrets for his crimes, and the Seal was hidden deep within Serenita, to avoid the Legends from using it themselves. Only one mortal will prove able to circumvent the price of its use: The Usurper, the Pokémon who will lay waste to the followers of Arceus, destroy his word, and even attempt to take Arceus himself.
She turned to the door, thinking of Arthus. ‘Dad mentioned that he was the Usurper…did that mean he had done these horrible things? Killing Pokémon, destroying the Tomes, even trying to use the Seal?’
She set her bookmark in the Tome and promptly closed it. ‘There’s only one way to find out.’
~~~~
“Again!” the Usurper bellowed.
Cassia nodded, rushing toward Grom with her claws extended, red mist enveloping them. She gouged the sides with one swipe, then spun to strike another, then did so again, circling the Golurk and preventing him from striking back. All the while, the red light in his eyes began to fade.
When it was at its dimmest, Arthus exclaimed, “Enough! We can’t have you draining him completely!”
Cassia complied, breathing fast and panting. Arthus stood up from his seat and touched the Golurk, holding his other hand out toward Cassia. She took it, siphoning her collected Life into Arthus, which then trailed into Grom.
Cassia averted her eyes and said, “Hey Dad, I was…wondering.”
“Ask away,” Arthus absentmindedly said, focused on Grom.
“Do you know about the Seal of Creation?”
Arthus’ grip suddenly tightened. “How do you know?” He sighed, loosening it once more. “Yes, I know it well. Part of my role in the Guild is to use it to its full potential; only those with control over Life, or some form of it, can use it.”
“So, it’s here?”
“Of course, it is! Who do you think—” he stopped himself, gritting his teeth. “It doesn’t matter how I got it. The point is, Martre is studying it to find out how to fix it after my last escapade with it.”
“Which was when?”
“Is that really important?”
“To me it is.”
Arthus gave her a harsh look, then said, “Two-thousand years ago, when I nearly succeeded with defeating Arceus.” He let go of Cassia’s hand, leaping over the fence and running toward the Master’s Tower.
Cassia stared wide-eyed at him, then turned to Grom. “Do you know about any of this?”
He buzzed for a moment, then said, “Lord Arthus often talks to himself, possibly a side-effect from being alone for an extended period of time. He speaks of Matheus Lucario--an individual who died two-thousand years ago—often ranting about their failed friendship. He also speaks—” He fizzed, shaking his head. “He has restrained me from revealing more about another individual.”
Cassia bit her lip, then said, “Is he the Usurper?”
Grom buzzed, his lights blinking. “Texts from my time period, known as the Gregorian Scrolls, describe a future disciple of the dark prophet Gregorius. Another text from a prophet known as Klaym also foretold this Usurper, predicting that he would rise from the shadows, then fall into them once more, deeper than ever before. He would slay thousands in his desire for not just revenge, but out of grief. His most distinct feature would be him following the Gregorian Texts, which, with the dark prophet’s assistance, would allow him to become a master of Life.” He held up a hand. “Given that Arthus is a master of Life, and that he has previously mentioned being Gregorius’ student, he must, therefore, be the Usurper.”
Cassia brushed back her mane, sighing. “That…that can’t be right! He’s a good Pokémon! He’s done so much for me!”
“It is not my place to say who he is. All I say are predictions,” Grom warned.
Cassia shook her head. “I remember him telling me before that he was called the Usurper, and that he didn’t want to talk about it.” She clutched her fingers. “The To—I mean, a book I read, said that the Usurper would stand against everything Arceus teaches, and try to stop the world from believing in him. Along the way, he’d…kill thousands.” She shivered.
Grom buzzed, then said, “I am merely a guardian; I am to hold no position or feeling about my master or other individuals.” He lowered his head, his light dimming. “Until Lord Arthus returns, I will remain in sleep.”
Cassia looked past the fence, which appeared to have nothing but buildings beyond. ‘Dad said I wasn’t supposed to go outside—he even made it look like there’s nothing out there.’ She looked away. ‘But I know that there’s other Pokemon.’ She looked up, closing her fist. ‘And I’m going to find out the truth.’ She waved her fingers, a rush of wind blowing by her. She appeared as a Lopunny, then, satisfied with her appearance, clambered over the fence.
Dozens of Pokémon crossed by her, ranging from Tauros lugging wagons, Mr. Mimes carrying papers, or Swellow with parcels swooping low. All activity surrounded the Master’s Tower, where they remained distant to avoid the Guildmaster’s gaze.
Cassia dodged between the Pokémon, making way to a round, low-roofed building with blue and purple stripes. The sign over the door said, ‘Wenstrel Café: In Memoriam”, but was marred by deep scratches.
She entered, covering her nose upon breathing in the foul air inside. Pokémon surrounded dozens of filthy tables, all jabbering about one thing or another, meals and drinks in front of them. A wall at the back opened into a cafeteria, where Pokémon rushed to prepare the meals throughout the day.
She studied the tables, then walked to one with a wizened Alakazam sitting with a Sawk with a sling over his arm. They talked with each other quietly but stopped once Cassia came by.
“What you looking at, Lopunny? Got a problem with us being here?” the Sawk seethed.
The Alakazam grabbed the Sawk’s uninjured hand and admonished, “Now Searle, remember what the Guildmaster said?”
Searle muttered, “Yes, Trias…”
The Alakazam nodded, then turned back to Cassia. “What can we help you with?”
“I was wondering if you could tell me more about how the Guild works. I’m…new here, and haven’t learned much yet,” Cassia replied.
“Ah, a new recruit! That explains why you don’t have an armband yet,” Trias remarked, pointing at Cassia’s arm. “Well, we’re quite busy, ensuring that criminals are caught, taxes are collected—” He stopped himself, lowering his hand. “That’s what I’d like to say, but…well, the Guild isn’t quite like it was when old Calem was alive.”
“Yeah, it’s better than ever!” Searle slammed the table. “Beating up Pokemon and taking what we want! That’s what it’s been all about since Arthus got rid of that old Lucario. He’s been sending teams to find out how to repair that little pendant, and he told us that he wants everyone to feel like the world is horrible! It's the perfect excuse to beat them up every once in a while.”
Cassia’s throat tightened. “W-What do you know about Arthus?”
Searle went to reply but was stopped by Trias’ hand. The old Alakazam’s eyes narrowed, then he hissed, “We don’t speak of such things. He’d have our necks if we spread rumors.”
“He’s not around right now, so it should be fine,” Searle replied, taking a glance behind him. Trias groaned, then Searle said, “He spends most of his time in that little house in the corner of the Guild, telling us to stay away, or he’d kill us. Only the Guildmaster has dared to go near.”
Trias grabbed his arm, warning him to stop. “He is a ruthless combatant. He knows how to make everyone fear and obey him and wants nothing more than to end the world as we know it. He has made many claims, but is…honestly, thankfully unable to do that, for he has yet to repair the Seal.”
“Is he…nice?”
Searle sneered. “Nice? He doesn’t know the meaning of the word! He treats everyone like dirt, and only cares about that old Seal and his personal time in that house. He’d kill somebody for delivering a letter he didn’t like!” he hoarsely replied.
Cassia’s claws shook as Trias patted Searle’s arm. “Careful Searle; if he caught wind of what you said, you’d be drained before you know it.” He forced a smile. “Besides, he’s rather respectful as long as you listen to him. He even promised us a place in his perfect world, where no wrong can be done!” He gave Cassia a concerned look. “Are you…alright?”
“I’m…fine. What do you think goes on…in that house?” Cassia croaked.
Trias blew his breath out slowly. “It’s rather dangerous to be asking such things, but I feel I must explain. No one really knows outside of Arthus himself and the Guildmaster. Some years back, I remember Arthus bringing a young Zoroark with him to revive his bodyguard, Grom, but she hasn’t appeared since. I thought it may have had something to do with her, but after the recent rumors, I thought different.”
“W-What rumors?”
Searle leaned in close and whispered, “That it’s a torture chamber for those fools who believe in Arceus.”
Cassia gasped, then broke into tears, falling against the table. Trias’ eyes widened, and he stepped over and touched Cassia’s back. “What’s wrong? Was it something we said?” He looked down at his hand, which passed through the Lopunny slightly. “Hmm?” Cassia continued to cry, and the illusion faded, revealing her to be a Zoroark.
Searle raised a shaking finger, pointing at her. “Y-You’re a spy! F-For Arthus! He left one of you alive, that way he could weed us out and kill us! I knew—”
“Stop saying that!” Blinking away tears, Cassia leapt on top of the table and took Searle by the injured arm, twisting it back. Searle cried out as Cassia held her sharpened claws inches from his throat. “You’re wrong! He’d never kill anyone! He’s a nice, kind Pokémon! I’ve lived with him all my life!”
Trias cautiously stepped closer to them, holding his hands out defensively. “I saw you four years ago; Arthus was unusually kind that day. Have you ever thought that he never wanted you to see his true self? So that you would not be repulsed by him?”
Cassia gazed at him in shock, continuing to hold Searle. After several moments, she released the Sawk, then disappeared, the doors flying open as she fled.
Searle clutched his injured arm as Trias slipped it back into its sling. “Where did she come from? Why was she here?”
Trias watched the doors swing, the other Guild Pokémon staring at the evidence of Cassia’s visit.
“To know the truth.”
~~~~
The Zoroark continued to weep on her bed, finding it impossible to believe that her father was a killer as those two had said. ‘He can’t be like that…he just can’t!’ But the nagging thought kept returning: ‘What they had said was true.’
She sniffed, wiping her nose. ‘He never wanted me outside…because he didn’t want me to see who he really is.’
The door creaked open, and Cassia twisted back. Arthus walked in with a grin. “Let’s get back to that combat practice; soon you’ll be tougher than—” He saw Cassia’s tear-stained face, and her sad, conflicted expression. “Me.” He shut the door, then approached her, concerned. “What’s wrong?” He made to sit next to her, but she scooted away, crossing her arms and leaning on her lap.
“I…I went out today. I went out into the Guild.”
“You what?”
“I talked with some Pokémon after Grom told me about you,” Cassia said flatly.
Arthus growled, clenching his claws under the bed. “Whatever that ridiculous Golurk or those goons said—”
“They told me you’re cruel to them. They told me you’ve killed Pokémon.” She hit her hand against the bedpost. “They told me you’re trying to kill Arceus!”
Arthus said while trying to embrace her, “Why do you—”
Cassia shoved him away, bolting to her feet. “I’ve read about you. You’re the Usurper, aren’t you? The one who tried to kill everyone in Equivos, the one who took Arceus, the one that killed the Lucario!”
Arthus stood up and spat, “How do you know these things? I never told you about them, and for good reason!” His eyes swiveled to the corner, focusing under the counter. “I know…”
He stormed to the counter, and Cassia paled. The Usurper reached underneath, yanking out the Arceist Tome and holding it up. “It’s this, isn’t it? I accidentally left it here, and you’ve been reading it, haven’t you? Reading its lies!”
“There are no lies! It said that you would kill everyone! The Lucario, the Guild, even your wife!”
“Silence!”
Arthus threw the book down, making deep, shuddering breaths. He held up a shaking claw, then hissed, “I admit it: I have killed Pokémon. I have killed so many that I can’t remember. All of it, because I hate Arceus and what he teaches.”
The Usurper lifted the Tome, tapping its cover. “I kept that from you, because I hate myself for it. I never like death; it is a necessary evil. Think about it: I want Pokémon to do only good. To do that, everyone must die, then be resurrected by me, without the choice to do wrong. It pains me every time I steal their life, but I believe…” He shook his head, holding a flame in his other claw. “No, I know it is the only solution to end sorrow!” He held the book over the fire.
“No!” Cassia ran to Arthus, pulling at the Tome.
Arthus kept his grip, glaring at his adopted daughter. He released the Tome, allowing both it and Cassia to fall to the floor. Cassia held her head, groaning, while he took the book back, extinguishing the flame.
He stepped silently to the door, then opened it. “You’re not in your right mind. This book has obviously affected you.” He inspected it, sneering. “Knowing how you’ll react if I destroy it, I’ll give it to Gardner for safe keeping.” He turned back to Cassia. “I have tried my best not to be angry at you, Cassia, but this time you’ve pushed me too far. I’ll have Grom keep you inside as you think about your mistake.” He stepped outside. “I’ll be back later.” He slammed the door, the floor shaking from the force.
Cassia shook her head, her heart beating rapidly. She ran for the back door and opened it, then gasped when she saw Grom standing against the doorframe.
“Lord Arthus is not pleased. I am to refuse all communication with you until he directs otherwise.” He pounded his knuckles together. “As for my directive, he allowed me to do no more than break bones to keep you from trying to steal the Tome. It is nothing but lies, and—”
She slammed the door, falling against it with a sob. She covered her face and heaved, struggling to breathe. ‘No…please, no…don’t be like this!’
She considered his actions. ‘He was only ever kind to me…yet he’s murdered Pokemon. He didn’t even deny it.” She let her head fall back on the door. ‘The Tome was right…it was always right.’ She sniffed, wiping her eyes. ‘I wish I could read it again…’ One passage came to mind, one of the few she had chosen to memorize:
Just as gladness comes, sorrow shall follow. Behind lies and deceit, lives are lost, whether it be through death of body, or death of heart. This is all to my plan.
For without sorrow, how can one realize joy? All shall pass, so long as one puts their trust in their creator.
After a few minutes of repeating this phrase and coming to terms with the truth, she forced herself to calm, taking in deep breaths and standing up. ‘I can’t stay here anymore…not now that I know who Arthus really is.’ She looked around the room, uncertain. ‘But…can I really do that?’
Cassia considered her options. ‘I…I could stay here…with Arthus. But he wouldn’t let me read the Tome again…and he’d surely try to make me like him…a murderer.’ She shook her head vigorously. ‘No. The Tome said you shouldn’t kill unless defending yourself or others. I can never be happy here with Arthus like this…not now that I know.’
She leaned against the wall, crossing her arms and bowing her head. ‘But what else can I do? Run away? I know nothing about the outside! I can protect myself, sure, but how am I going to eat? Sleep? It’s a dangerous place out there…if what Arthus said is true.’
She gasped, putting a hand over her mouth; a dreadful thought came into her mind. ‘Corrina died two thousand years ago…Arthus can’t be my real father.’
“He left one of you alive!” she remembered Searle Sawk saying. She stood straight, eyes wide. ‘What…what happened to my real parents?’
She considered it for a moment, then sobbed. ‘He…he killed them…just like everyone else…then adopted me.’ In the midst of her tears, she wearily took a bag from the counter and pulled supplies and belongings into it.
‘I’m leaving…tonight.’
~~~~
The front door creaked open, and Cassia poked her head out. She slowly stepped out, holding a large sack over her shoulder, loaded with what supplies were within reach. She looked around, then stepped toward the tower.
A boom echoed from the backyard, then Grom thrust from it, his feet blowing away dust and grass. The scarlet cracks scattered throughout his body shone even brighter in the night air, the blackness hiding all but that.
He cracked his knuckles, cocking his head. “You have come out. Lord Arthus’ directive is to keep you in the house. Comply now, and there will be no need for violence.”
Cassia crouched, tightening her grip on the bag. “Never.”
His eyes flashed, and mist trailed up from the cracks. “Reserves accessed. You will be unable to drain my Life to force me into hibernation. Prepare for conflict.” His arms reared back.
Cassia ran around him, throwing the bag behind her. The Golurk swiveled his torso, his legs remaining in place. He slammed his arms, the Zoroark leaping away from the impact.
Grom rushed forward, coursing ahead with his thrusters. Cassia leapt away, scratching his back, creating a trail of mist into her body. A ball of red flame appeared in her hand, and she threw it at Grom.
He lifted his arm and blocked the impact, shuddering. He knelt down, then held his arm out, a dark sphere growing at the palm.
Cassia ran toward him, and Grom fired the sphere. She jumped over it, then landed on Grom’s shoulders, grabbing hold of his neck. The Golurk stood up and swung his arms back, reaching for the Zoroark. She tucked her legs back, pounding Grom’s head to no effect.
Grom suddenly stopped, then fell backwards, expecting to crush Cassia. She let go of Grom and scrambled out of the way, taking a sizable rock from the ground.
The Golurk pushed himself up, then searched for Cassia, who was nowhere in sight. He scrutinized the surroundings, knowing that she couldn’t have escaped so quickly. He noticed a slight shimmer in front of him, then reared back his arms for a punch.
The shimmer broke as Cassia leapt from it with a yell. She swung the rock against Grom’s head, knocking a spherical chunk from the top, the sparking stone rolling on the ground.
Grom’s lights flickered and his head sparked. He wobbled drunkenly, then fell forward with a slam, dust ballooning around him. His eyes fell dark.
Cassia breathed quickly, picking up the stone that rolled from his head. The light within it faded as she took the bag and stuffed the stone inside, ensuring that Grom couldn’t be repaired so easily.
A light snapped on in the Master’s Tower, and a silhouette descended the stairs. Cassia breathed in sharply, disappearing.
Soon after, Gardner burst from the door, looking around wildly. “Who did that? I demand to know!” His eye came to Grom. It widened.
The door slammed behind him, and he turned back with a grunt. “What?” He pulled at the handle, but the door was locked. He slammed it and roared, “Open this instant! Don’t you know who I am?”
Moments later, the door burst open, batting Gardner to the ground. Cassia rushed out, the Arceist Tome poking out of her bag.
Gardner hovered upward, rubbing his chin. He noticed Cassia and growled. “You’re not getting away that easily.” He burst into puce fog, the vapor rapidly approaching the Zoroark.
It enveloped her, and Cassia tried to wave it away, coughing. Gardner chuckled. “You haven’t met a Ghost before, have you?” A glowing purple fist appeared in the fog and punched Cassia, knocking her to the ground.
The Dusknoir rematerialized over her, crossing his arms. “As much as I’d love to see you disappear from my life, Arthus wouldn’t appreciate it.”
Cassia rubbed her lip, baring her teeth. “Let. Me. Go.”
Gardner growled, grabbing her arm. “What makes you think I’ll do that? I listen only to Arthus!”
Grom’s lights flickered.
Cassia scratched his arm, causing Gardner to grunt and grab her other arm. He pushed her down and shouted, “You don’t think I am ready for such tricks? Your natural abilities are useless against me!”
Grom’s eyes burst with flame.
Cassia pulled against Gardner, exclaiming, “I can’t stay here! Not with him!”
“But he’s your father. That precious Tome of yours must have something about being obedient to your parents.”
Grom’s inner workings whirred.
Cassia eyes drew close to Gardner’s. “He killed them.”
“Graaww!”
They both looked up, freezing in place as Grom stood up, his head sparking with red electricity.
Cassia forced herself to look away and pulled her arm out from Gardner’s grip and scratched across his face, causing him to scream and cover it, dampening the violet mist flowing from the wounds.
Grom pounded forward, rearing back his fist. Cassia leapt out of the way as Grom threw a gargantuan punch at Gardner, sending him flying into the roof of the tower and through the tiles with a crash. The light inside went out.
Cassia looked up at Grom, her heart pounding as she shook. The Golurk—his face appearing upside-down to her—cocked his head. “Graw-hawm?”
Cassia cocked her head as well. “What did you say?”
His arm moved, causing Cassia to flinch. He lowered it, then held it out to Cassia. “Gro?”
Unsure of what to think, Cassia accepted the hand, then allowed herself to be pulled upright. She studied Grom, then said, “Can you…talk?”
“Gro-hawm?”
“Can you…remember anything?”
He fingered the gap in his head. “Gro?”
Lights came on in the other houses, and doors started to open. Sensing danger, Grom grabbed Cassia’s sides and lifted her up. She eeped, holding on to Grom as he crouched. “Wait, wait! What are you doing? I want to—”
Bo-o-o-o-m!
Grom burst from the canyon into the open air, the Master’s Tower rapidly shrinking as they fled.
The night wind rushed by Cassia’s ears as she looked back despairingly. She remembered memories of her life with Arthus, and her tears returned.
“I’m sorry.”
~~~~
Arthus stood outside the gates, holding the Seal of Creation in front of his face. “She’ll…she’ll get over it…she’s only a child.” He sighed and dropped it, pushing open the door. “I should go apologize.”
A boom echoed from inside the Guild, and Arthus burst inside, watching Grom thrust out of the walls and into the distance, his crimson flare barely visible.
Arthus ran to his launching point and shouted, “Where do you think you’re going?” He growled and threw his arm in the air. “Oh, forget it. He’ll be back before long.” He stepped toward his house and muttered, “I’ll just have to watch her myself.” He stopped, noticing the door open. He cocked his head and pushed it open. “What?” He entered, studying the room; nothing was out of place—except Cassia wasn’t there.
He paced around the furniture, eyes narrowed. “Cassia? I want to apologize. I shouldn’t have snapped at you earlier.” He twisted his head, scowling. “Are you invisible? Why are you refusing to talk to me?” He came to the counter, picking up a leaf of paper with his name in curved letters.
“Hmm?” He sat on his chair, his eyes flitting as he read its contents.
Dad, or more accurately, Arthus:
You have lied to me. All my life, I believed you were a good Pokémon, one who showed others the same kindness you showed me. I know now that you are nothing like that. You kill and torture Pokémon, claiming it is for the better, when in reality you just want to vent your anger on them.
I’ve read from the Arceist Tome ever since I could. It teaches only truth, unlike what you have said. I’ve had it confirmed to me when I was young. Everything in its pages defies your ideology, and I refuse to live in it anymore. No, this is not my fault.
It is only yours.
Cassia
Arthus’ claws quaked, the letter rippling. His eyes widened in sheer astonishment and rage. Red flames crackled against the letter, putting it alight.
“She…she left me.” He bared his teeth. “She betrayed me.”
Arthus rose, his limbs continuing to shake. “Are you happy now, Arceus? You have taken her from me.” His eyes glowed red, and his claws emitted mist. “Just like Matheus!”
He roared and crushed his chair. “I showed her love!” He pulled down the shelves. “I cried with her!” He ripped off the cabinets. “And this is what I get!” He flipped over the bed. “All of that, wasted!” He crushed and destroyed everything he could lay hands on, his blind rage encompassing all, just like the ever-growing flame.
It grew to consume the entire house, and Arthus charged through the wall out into the open. He stared at the bonfire he had created, then shaking his fist, roared, “Why do you have to torture me!” He fell to his knees and wept for the loss of his daughter.