The LAVARIDGE Team

Aurora was a fucking retard! Tellin' a child tah risk themselves! Braxton had successfully hit the Rhyhorn, bashing into it consecutively with an Assurance slap on its high and mighty ass to send the poor smite whimpering for its partner in crime. Speaking of the Rhydon, the Infecta-Duo who were once arguing and fighting the thing were now looking at him. "Oi old man look out!" The Rampardos perked at Spectrum's voice, and his eyes landed on the charging Rhydon. Jus' my luck! Braxton grumbled, stomping his foot in agitation as he raised his arms in readiness. He was going to hafta wrestle this disrespectful oaf back into business, huffing as the ground type made its way over to him.

"I've got thi- hrf! Braxton's muscles strained at the Rhydon's unexpected strength, his heavy duty feet digging into the ground. Determined red eyes stared into the empty eye sockets of the other, and the Head Butt Pokemon felt the need to gather his saliva and spit upon the face of the unworthy Rhydon - of course the undead fiend didn't even cringe as the spit hit its target, but the action was only for mental support for the Rampardos. Braxton's arms shook as he pushed forward, the Rhydon scooting backwards just an inch; he hated to admit it, but he wasn't as strong as he once was - he wasn't going to win this if it continued as it is. "Speckles!" He barked in a commanding voice, his dark gray body shaking with the effort it took to hold himself against this stupid thing. "Can't hold this guy forev'r, y'know?! Take the initiative, fool!"

Braxton gave another grunt, feeling his muscles burn from the overuse. "I a'int afraid of dying, Donny!" He grinned, mostly to himself, as he continued to struggle with the ground type. The Rhydon seemed to catch on that Braxton was making fun of it, and it roared in anger and pushed forward with just as much vigor. It was really silly, that in the middle of all this wrestling and all this fighting, the one thing the Rampardos couldn't stop thinking about was how weird it all was. Aurora and Spectrum reminded him all too well of the bickers he had often; Lady Midday and her mischievous gleam in her eye; Kullervo and his prickliness; the little Poliwag and her innocence. Bah, history repeats itself - well then, history is borin' for those who live long enough! The Rampardos took another step forward, his sharp gaze landing on a certain Luxray.

"I a'int afraid of dying, Donny!" The Rampardos grinned. Irritation and anger flooded the Luxray, he growled as he leaped up and landed on the Rhydon's shoulders. The Rhydon flailed, releasing its grip on Braxton before falling over. His instinct tickled his mind, 'Kill it! Kill it before it kills you!' The Lion snarled as he opened his jaws, the neck right between his sharp teeth. With a sickening Crunch, the neck snapped into two. Spectrum threw the lifeless Rhydon like a doll, a pool of blood forming as it lay there. "You didn't have to say anything old man!" Spectrum spat, something was different about his tone, it was more distorted than the usual... yet his expression tells that he's still the same old Luxray. A funny, yet stupid looking grin splat on his face.

"Well they're gone..." Aurora mumbled. It was sudden as she felt a heavy rock land in her chest, her stomach churning with sudden excitement. As if something new appeared on her dinner table. The Fresh Snow Pokemon wanted -- no -- needed Spectrum's flesh. She needed it now. The Glaceon dragged herself to the Luxray, narrowing her eyes at the Poliwag that blew bubbles at the fleeing Rhyhorn, killing its mate must have made look weaker. As she opened her jaw, ready to take in Spectrum into her, she glanced at the Head Butt Pokemon... to eat the Electric-type right in front of the Dino? Could probably remind him that her and Spectrum are undead and make him want to kill.

She forced herself away, closing her mouth as she stared up at the Rock-type with her brow knitted, "Hey Braxton," She began, the Luxray giving her a questioning look for suddenly popping up, "Think you can help me and Spectrum a bit?" Spectrum began to become far more confused as he stare dumbfoundedly at Aurora, what did she need? Nonetheless, she continued, "You see, we're trying to remember our memories. It's a bit difficult, but sometimes seeing the smallest of things help us remember."

"Oh yeah!" The Gleam Eyes Pokemon said, he stared up at the other Sinnoh Pokemon with a grin, "That would be awesome! Hey, maybe we could train together while we're at it!"

A flicker of annoyance came through Aurora, she was definitely going to make it painful when she takes a bite out of him when they're alone. The Glaceon hated it when Spectrum showed optimism on activities that didn't include her. She sighed as she glanced at her belly then over to the Luxray. She remembered one thing that she could never tell her mate about, it was despicable of her as well.

She bore a child of another. It was an old memory and the Glaceon was out of her mind when Spectrum eloped with another. Aurora didn't remember what happened to that child, nor did she even recall who the father was, but her reason to live this long wasn't to find her memories. Rather to find that child (assuming it is still alive) and wish it a better life. A better life in the Epidemic? Ha!... Remorse and regret stabbed her, the Fresh Snow Pokemon said nothing, sharing nothing of her thoughts.

Bell paused in her bubble blowing. She was used to being able to just use the water around her for her attacks, but here... It was dry and hot here. She was forced to use the water in her own body, dehydrating her. Breathing heavily, she looked to the others. Her attacks didn't seem to help much anyway. She backed up a bit, keeping her eyes on the largest dinosaur in the group. He seemed to be the nicest one. Before long, the battle was over, and she found herself looking around at the others.

Walking quietly, she approached the Dinosaur. Giving into her childish temptation, she scurried up his tail, using her own flat tail for balance. When she reached his head, she pushed down slightly with her tail so she wouldn't fall off. The world was staggeringly far away from up here, and it took her a moment to realize fully what she had just done. Giving a squeak, she looked down at the Dino's face. Feigning innocence, she smiled and looked in his eyes. "My name's Bell!" She chirped. She didn't want to get in trouble, after all.

((OOC: If any of that's not okay with you Nega, I'll change it. Just lemme know. >.<))

"You didn't have to say anything old man!" Braxton hated responsibility - well, no, he didn't hate it, but he most certainly didn't enjoy holding so much of it. He's had his fair share of being responsible, being the one in control and holding everyone together. The Rampardos' prime years were basically spent taking care of the young and being responsible, being a role-model as well as a protector and friend. But the decades have come and gone, and Braxton was a weathered man; he couldn't stretch his boundaries as much as he wanted to. Stomping his foot, Braxton gave an approving grin towards Spectrum. He's got a long way tah go, but he's gettin' there. Aurora called to him, asking for assistance in their search for their memories. A small pang of sympathy struck through the dinosaur. He had always treasured his long years, despite how much he might complain; to see two Pokemon, young and fairly living, who can't recall their past? "That would be awesome! Hey, maybe we could train together while we're at it!"

"A'ight, I'll help wit' your li'l dilemma," he nodded in affirmation. It'd be great to get out of his little homely crack, probably find some fresh food that was salvageable. "Just dun expect me to be doin' all the work. I'm much too old for dis, mind you!" Braxton rolled his shoulders and gave a mocking smile, taking the sting out of his words. He wouldn't admit it out loud, but he liked this crowd; crazy around the edges, but he supposed they had that sweetness underneath the tart outside. The dinosaur dropped his arms to his side, allowing himself to enjoy the rising sun. How many times had he looked at the orange glow, hoping that his sweetheart wasn't killed in their escape? The roses she had often told him to stop and smell only glistened with the morning dew held the sharp thorns their broken vows of a lifelong love had left him in, and Braxton could only hide his hurt behind a grouchy elderly frame. [i].... yeh, too old for this.

"My name's Bell!"

Atop of his head was the little Poliwag, her innocent smile gracing him. Her eyes held nothing but happiness, and in return Braxton gave a small smile himself. "I'm Braxton, ya squirt." He cooed in a rare gentle voice. Like so many of the younger Pokemon he had taken care of in his earlier years, the Rampardos made sure not to shake his hard head too roughly as the water type took refuge on it. Ah, to feel young 'gain, ha! Bringing his eyes back to the others - Kullervo, Spectrum and Aurora, and Lady Midday - he clenched his fist and cupped it into his other palm. "It's mighty sad that you two can't remember much. Anyhow, where do'ya intend on goin'? Up the volcano, or down to the town?" He ended his little question with a glance up to Bell, the smile still playing on his lips.

If the ghost had hands, Lady Midday would've clapped. What a good show that was! Though the Deino was currently elsewhere [probably tried to chase off one of the undead, missed, and fell down a slope or something], the Rampardos, the Luxray, and the Glaceon had fought spectacularly -- even the little Poliwag threw a little attack at one of them. The Mismagius breathed out with a happy sigh, twirling down to rejoin the group from her midair perch from where she had watched the brawl in silence. Indeed, this group looked like it would be fun.

She came into hearing distance right as she heard Aurora's current goal, and the Poliwag introduce herself. Recovering forgotten memories? What use did an Undead have for memories? In Lady Midday's eyes, Undead were just these mindless little monsters that did whatever they pleased. Stuffing her scowl down her throat, she turned a concerned smile towards the blood-covered Glaceon. "Really? Well, I'm sorry to hear that. I hope you recover your memories, soon..." she said, followed with a small giggle. Maybe she could find a way to fuck with them as they regained their memories. It sounded entertaining enough.

"You, you said your name's Spectrum, right?" Lady Midday asked, doing a sort of flip in the air and floating upside down over the Luxray. "Ever fought with a ghost? I can help you train, too," she offered. Really, despite missing whole chunks off of his flank, legs, and tail, the Luxray looked strong; though the Mismagius hated his red eyes and how he happened to kind of, you know, drip blood everywhere, Spectrum looked like a fun one to spar with. And, after all, Lady Midday did want to get stronger, because in a world like this, only the strong would survive.

She shouldn't have to dwell in it. Spectrum was nothing more than mere food to her, he's not her mate, just a meal that she would always whine for whenever hungry; like a spoiled child. Yet the memory of her child made her even more hungry, even so, she also felt a spark of feelings go for the Luxray... No, she would never love. Aurora was aware of the consequences of loving someone, she knew it all; because you'll end up losing them at some point anyways. There was no reason to love for her. Only the strongest survive, Spectrum is one of the simple minded ones, he could not survive without Aurora, but the Glaceon can survive without him...

"Really? Well, I'm sorry to hear that. I hope you recover your memories, soon..." The Luxray blinked at Lady Midday's sudden apologies, it seemed... off, but he didn't dare point it out as she did a flip in the air, "You, you said your name's Spectrum, right?" He slightly nodded at her question, what's she planning...? "Ever fought with a ghost? I can help you train, too," Upon this statement, his eyes sparkled in happiness, it even grew bigger as Braxton agreed to help them out! "Really?!" He can be stronger for Aurora! Yes, more diversity in enemies... everyone's different in a way, he must learn that if he needs to be stronger, "That would be great!" But something did feel off... Was it the Fresh Snow Pokemon? She had been oddly quiet for a while... Is she hungry? He gave a worried glance at her, but immediately shrugged it off.

The Glaceon felt sick upon seeing the Gleam Eyes Pokemon give her a worried glance, it made her stomach churn. How dare he... How dare he look at her? He must be hungry, his feelings are not mutual love. If that's how it is, then Aurora is obviously done with this fake relationship, she's only staying for the sake of her memories. That sickening look branded into her brain, not that she did it on purpose, but wanted to forget everything. What's with her anyways? Earlier she stuck with the Luxray like glue, now it feels like they're complete strangers... Is it because of the new Pokemon...?

"It's mighty sad that you two can't remember much. Anyhow, where do'ya intend on goin'? Up the volcano, or down to the town?" He blinked, there's a town? Well since they're at the bottom floor, mind as well go head off to town... It would be a pain to climb up those steep slopes. He glanced over at them, feeling a chill go up his spine. No, that was too dangerous for his mate, and the very thought of going up there... obviously it would take a while. "Then let's head off to town," He suggested, "It's closer to us, and maybe we could find some useful resources." It didn't strike him as odd, he learned this from watching other survivors. He will admit he goes out a night, and see other survivors [He doesn't kill though, only Aurora's sweet flesh was enough for him!]. They always suggest to go look for resources, he will be honest, he doesn't need them as he is Undead. Aurora doesn't need them either. As long as they had each other, that would be enough.

Bell giggled at the dinosaur's reaction. She liked this old guy- Braxton, he said his name was. She was so absorbed into the scenery, different on every side, that she didn't pay much attention to the chatting of the others. Already, the nightmares at Castelia were left behind. She occupied herself by trying to hold on to Braxy's smooth head as he chatted. One word did pass through her head. Volcano

Volcanoes... Those were... hot, right? That didn't sound like very much fun. She wanted to go somewhere she could swim, her body already starting to dry out. "Let's go to the town!" She agreed, hoping to find something to drink there.

"It's closer to us, and maybe we could find some useful resources." Spectrum had just been a ball of energy, jumping at all the opportunities to train and become stronger, to learn and hold up, what the fuck just happened?! Braxton gave a small, barely noticeable huff, willing himself to not stomp his foot down repeatedly for the sake of the tadpole atop his head. For most of his post-prime years, he had practically resented lending a hand to the younger folk. Heck, he had driven away so many prospective companions from his territory because in his mind, he had given up on trying to fill the loneliness that followed him. I guess that jus' made me an sour puss, heh. Rolling his shoulders, the Rampardos grinned as the little Bellsie prompted all of them to go towards the town.

"Eh, just past the edge o' the forest is Lavaridge, a lazy town last I seen it. Who knows what mighta happened since the epidemic struck?" He pondered out loud, tapping his chin in feigned wonder. Braxton didn't really want to get into much detail seeing as there was a little child amongst them, but he had a right to question the safety of the place. Like Lady Midday had said, heat sped up the infection tenfold (he could testify to that), and abnormalities and wretched things popped up more often than anywhere else. He looked briefly at the Pokemon around himself, a small glance upward to the water type, and blinked his eyes slowly. Here he was, agreeing to help strangers when he had chased them away so often before. Here he was, inwardly pledging to protect the younger generation when he had complained about their futility so often once. Clenching his jaw, the dinosaur turned towards the opening in the forest, the rocky path paving a natural road. "Well, what are we waitin' for, Raticates to lunge for our throats?" Noting that sadistic jokes weren't exactly the prime example for a growing Poliwag, Braxton began his slow saunter down the Jagged Pass, humming quietly.

I'm bein' concerned 'bout Bells, and I dun even know how much she knows about the 'fection! Now interested in what the kid actually had to say, he took a few steps away from the rest of the crowd, pausing just as the trees began to thin out towards an open area. "Hey li'l girl, do ya know whas up wit' the world nowadays? With the evil Pok'mon?" He paraphrased a bit, curbing the harsh reality that these Pokemon weren't just evil, they were bloodthirsty. They were mindless monsters that wouldn't hesitate in dig into their cavities and pull out their hearts and eat them alive. But the little one doesn't need to know that! He chastened his mind, crossing his arms in mild nervousness. The world was much better off without another killer on the loose. I won't let anger get the best of me again, I swear it.

The Mismagius noticed the little relational drift between the Luxray and the Glaceon, even if the undead lion pokémon himself didn't notice it. How couldn't Spectrum notice how the Glaceon glares at him with anger? Oh well, just all the more fun for the ghost! Lady Midday looked around at the rest of the group, most of which had agreed with the decision to head towards Lavaridge Town. The town wasn't really a place she favored, but why not? Might as well stick around for the ride.

She floated higher, following the group and occasionally going a little ahead, watching from above. She saw how the Rampardos [Brandon or something, maybe. Lady Midday was bad with remembering names since she didn't really bother to remember them as of late] carried the little Poliwag on his head and giggled. Aw, well, wasn't that just adorable? The old man looked like an uncle carrying his little niece or something. Or a grandfather giving his first grandchild a ride. Lady Midday never really had close family to do things like that for her, even when she had been alive, and a human. No, in her old world, most people never actually managed to grow old enough to be like the grandparents of today. Uncles? Maybe, but the Mismagius's father had been a single child, and she never knew very much about her mother.

With a soft sigh, she drifted forwards again, thinly giving the roads ahead a light scan for any close Undead that were likely to attack. So far, she saw none, but she hoped the ones down below weren't letting their guards down or anything, because the Undead could literally come out of nowhere. The Rhydons and Rhyhorn from earlier had proven that. With a bored huff, she glanced over at the town down the road, then back at the group, wanting them to move faster. Her impatience was showing again!

The Poliwag agreed with Spectrum whole-heartedly, the Luxray giving her a warm smile. He never really gave smiles to anyone except Aurora, but he liked kids. They're innocent... The thought made him shudder, however. He was Undead. In no way could he befriend a child and ensure their safety. He would have to trust Braxton to kill Spectrum if things were to go out of hand... this heat was driving him insane! "Eh, just past the edge o' the forest is Lavaridge, a lazy town last I seen it. Who knows what mighta happened since the epidemic struck?" Possibly ruins, just like Mauville City when the young couple passed by it. There was nothing but torn down houses and rubble. Possibly what could have happened to Lavaridge as well.

"Well, what are we waitin' for, Raticates to lunge for our throats?" Aurora awoken from her trance, flinching upon the Headbutt Pokemon's words, whom was heading towards the opening in the trees that created a natural path to the town. Her mate followed the Dino willingly, a goofy grin on his face... Bitter. There was that bitter feeling again. The Glaceon trudged towards the group, she felt her eyes swollen from those invisible tears, possibly more stress in her body. As if the dark circles weren't enough... The Ice-type unknowingly moved her gaze from her mate's back to the Ghost Pokemon, something about her made the Fresh Snow Pokemon uncomfortable. As if a foreboding wind is beginning to settle in the group.

The view widened to a more open area as the number of trees lessened. This must be the town. As Spectrum expected to see ruins and mayhem, his eyes widened at the sudden change of scenery. This place looked... surprisingly normal for a human town. Not like the Epidemic where there's ruins, but rather that it seems abandoned. There's blood here and there, sure, but the fact the buildings didn't break down yet? This sure is a good place to shelter in... "Weird..." He mumbled, as he scanned the area. Before he could take a step further, his mate went on ahead, as if in some sort of trance. What's with her? Did something happen...? The Gleam Eyes Pokemon frowned, why is it that he feels so distant?

Aurora paced herself to go ahead of the group as soon as they reached town. Screw the fucking Undead popping out of nowhere, if they weren't such pussies, all of them would have came right at the back at Jagged Pass. Nonetheless, she was forcing herself to find a private shelter for her and Spectrum. She was starving, parched, she wanted his flesh and blood. Not in front of the kid though, traumatizing thought honestly. 'Oh hey! Last night, I saw you guys eating each other, is that normal?' Yeah, wonder-fucking-ful. She popped her head into the doors of the houses, one of the farthest ones -- the Gym -- had broken glass as doors. Who the fuck thought up of the idea as glass for doors? Arceus, safety hazard much? She hopped over the glass with a clumsy leap, she paused as her nose caught a whiff of something; blood.

It was there when she stared off at the side. Corpses, human corpses all piled up. Flies buzzed around at their stench of death, Aurora jumped, flying backwards as she kept her eyes glued at the dead bodies, "Shit! What the hell-?!"... She was perfectly fine with Pokemon corpses, yet the sight of humans dead...? She was ready to throw up the bile filling up in her throat, but she just simply gulped it back down. Ew.

He immediately jumped into action upon his mate's cursing. Did something happen? Worry began to fill his mind as he raced over to the Gym. He ignored the glass pieces that pierced his paw pads, only to find Aurora safe and sound... But she stared wide-eyed in horror at something off to the side. Spectrum poked his head in, only to see the reason; corpses. Usually the Glaceon would praise Arceus for the heavy bundle of corpses they could use as desert, but this is different. These were humans. He remembered the day that when Spectrum eloped with another, it was all a trick so he could get captured by a human... But did these pale pink creatures deserve this? Flies buzzed around the scent of death that emitted from the bodies. Spectrum wasn't as horrified as his mate, however. Rather, he was neutral. They did deserve it.... They nearly tore about his relationship with Aurora, killed their clan... Why is she so upset over this?

Bell loved the view from up here. She wasn't sure if she had ever been this high before! The gentle rocking of Braxy's walking didn't bother her at all, and even helped her see farther. She was having the time of her life! Until, that is, Braxy asked her that question... She didn't answer for a few moments, trying to think of how to respond. "I ran into one a long way from here a few days ago. A Gyarados. It uh... killed one of my friends, so I ran away." He voice was soft, and tears threatened to fall. No, she couldn't cry. She didn't have the water for that anymore.

As she approached the town, she was surprised it was still intact. Castelia had been rather ruined, if she remembered correctly. She tried to block out those days... The two four-legs dashed off on their own, but Bell tapped on the top of Braxy's head. "Can we try to find water?" She asked sweetly. She needed to rehydrate soon, so she would faint.

"I ran into one a long way from here a few days ago. A Gyarados. It uh... killed one of my friends, so I ran away." Bells had replied to his question in the most innocent way possible, so childlike that his heart twisted in sympathy. Poor little tyke didn't deserve to have gone through that! And a Gyarados at that..! Braxton watched in mild curiosity as Aurora found her way into the Gym of the city, before he found himself grimacing as the Glaceon cursed loudly - they had a child in their midst, thanks! I ought to have a word wit' the Queen of Ice, goodness. He rolled his shoulders in exhaustion, slowly following after the energetic Luxray. "Can we try to find water?" The Rampardos perked up at the sound of the Poliwag, his eyes glancing up towards the tadpole.

"Hmm... s'pose we could, girly, but you're forgetting the magic word!" He grinned up to her, waggling a finger in feigned chastity. There was never any harm in placing the rules of proper etiquette within the youngster, right? He paused on his way over to the gym entrance, not really feeling up to interfering with the two lovebirds. Wouldn't wanna walk in on that with a child on my head... He speculated, tapping his chin in question as did a slow three-sixty to get a full scope of Lavaridge. The entire place was pretty well-kept, but that just made it that much more suspicious. Braxton found himself pinpointing Lady Midday, the ghost floating around. "'Ey! Ya ever heard of that thing, where jus' by bein' in a place you can affect wha' happens within that area? Think that might happen?" He said, walking up to stand below the Mismagius, gesturing to the rest of the city. Simply too calm for li'l ole me. He directed his attention back to Bell, a gentle smile on his face once again. "Now, wanna ask me again - properly this time?"

As he awaited for the Poliwag to ask again, he already began to slowly look around the town for a good place to search for water. The Pokemon Center seemed like a great area to begin his search, but he could recall the herbal shop that attracted so many tourists; surely that housing would have water? I mean, they water them herbs, right? He thought to himself in question. Being a wild Pokemon all his life, he didn't have so much of a clue as to what humans would do. Huffing quietly at his own lack of knowledge, the Head Butt Pokemon ambiguously made his way over to the Pokemon Center, humming to himself an old tune.

The pass narrowed in the shape of a bottle's neck for a bit, though the group didn't have much trouble passing and neither did Lady Midday who floated over the group [she had no legs to walk with, anyway]. Soon, the pass opened up to the top of a gentle hill, which may have looked nice and sandy if it weren't for the ash and blood that spread around the area. Past that was old Lavaridge Town, still looking surprisingly intact. Well, of course. There was no life here for Undead to cause a stampede in a chase for food, and in the early days, at most, the Undead that destroyed everything were nearly all fire-based; meaning, with the stone walls of the houses, fire didn't have as much effect on the area as it should've in any other. The houses should've been of plaster and wood frame just like every other town, especially since it was so hot in Lavaridge -- but what did the Mismagius know? The humans did whatever they wanted. Maybe plaster and wood was just too easy to catch fire in this dry, hot town. It kind of reminded Lady Midday of her old days, where almost everything was wood or stone-based.

Immediately, the group began dispersing around the town, with the Undead duo heading somewhere else and the Brandon-Poliwag duo wandering and looking around. The latter pair seemed to be talking about something. The ghost couldn't hold a little smile back as she floated, relaxed, in the air, at the kind and gentle expression that the dinosaur spoke to the tadpole-like pokémon -- though she was a ghost, it was still heart[?]warming to see a cute relationship like that. She adjusted her body so it was perpendicular with the ground when the dinosaur looked up at her, a bit caught by surprise. "'Ey! Ya ever heard of that thing, where jus' by bein' in a place you can affect wha' happens within that area? Think that might happen?" he asked, one, little stubby dino-arm gesturing around to the rest of the place.

What? What did that mean? A thing where just by being in a place you can affect what happens? Either it was just the way the old man talked, or... okay, the ghost really didn't understand his question. But it didn't seem she had to answer, because he was already walking away with the little blue pokémon on his head, humming some unfamiliar song.

Well, okay then. Instead, the Mismagius decided to tag along with the Undead duo; she was curious as to where they had went off on. With a quick sweep of the area with her eyes, she found them standing before the gym, the Glaceon hopping over the shattered glass doors and entering the place. "Shit! What the hell-?!" the ghost heard, the lion following his partner into the place. The Glaceon seemed a little frozen [no pun intended], though the Luxray didn't seem nearly as affected by whatever she saw. Well, needless to say, Lady Midday was interested. She swooped down near the duo, looking past them into the gym. "What are you looking at?" she asked in a somewhat sing-song voice, floating around the sickened-looking Glaceon with a little spin.

The human corpses, piled up like garbage, slid into the Mismagius's view. Most of them were already rotting, their mouths showing yellowed teeth, or dried eyes that stared up at the trio at the door. The ghost was taken a little by surprise at the bodies, but was more or less curious about Aurora's reaction. The bodies were just of humans that were too slow to run away. She was an Undead. Why wasn't she happy about the prospect of dead bodies? Or at least completely nonchalant about it? Lady Midday puffed out her cheeks a little bit like a little kid, floating over the Glaceon and looking at her up-side down. "Is Miss Ice Queen melting down a little bit? What's wrong? You seem grossed out."


[Yes, Lady Midday still thinks Braxton's name is Brandon. LOL]

"What are you looking at?" Lady Midday cooed, spinning in the air as she enterd the gym. Her eyes laid upon the pile of corpses, puffing out her cheeks like a child, hanging upside down, "Is Miss Ice Queen melting down a little bit? What's wrong? You seem grossed out." Aurora twitched, a glare thrown at the Mismagius before huffing defiantly, "Nothing." Spectrum frowned, she's much more hostile than before. What's with her lately? "Don't mind Aurora much," Spectrum mumbled, apologizing to the Ghost, "She's probably hungry..." The Luxray was aware she was picking out a safe spot to eat the Electric-type's flesh without interruption. It would be awkward afterall. Imagining the group randomly walking in to see them eating each other. Totally not Undead.

Aurora ignored the Gleam Eyes Pokemon's mumbles towards Lady Midday, not her business! She padded away from the group and deeper into the gym, the smell of blood strong as ever. Like hell they'll take shelter here! This place was like a maze! The Glaceon refused to jump into the holes in the gym, glancing around. It would make a nice shelter, good defense system... If they knew their way around. Maybe if they threw the bodies somewhere else this could make a nice place. She could also have some alone time with Spectrum... She'll propose to the group upon staying here. It's not that late anyways, there's time to remove the bodies. The Fresh Snow Pokemon padded back silently, her crimson-red eyes meeting with Spectrum's. With a twitch, she immediately looked away, leaving the gym with her dignity and leaving the Luxray even more confused.

He chased after her, in a way, the Luxray was tired of this scene. It was always him chasing after her. Did Aurora ever chase after Spectrum? Beg for his mercy? No! This was ridiculous! They're mates, suppose to trust each other from the very beginning, share their problems with each other. So why is that she's so distant? "Aurora..." He called out weakly, she was padding quicker than earlier, towards a house in the corner. The Glaceon immediately headed in, Spectrum following after her with desperation in his eyes, "Aurora, please!" It was at that very moment did the door slam behind him, hiding the duo from the rest of the group's eyes. His mate turned around slowly to face him, her eyes filled with hunger and pain... How long has she been holding it in? She mentioned it when they first came that she was hungry. Even during the fight...

Stupid bastard, did he know how long Aurora has waited for this? She watched as Spectrum's worried gaze suddenly fell to a loving one, how pathetic. The Ice-type wrapped her tail around the Luxray's neck, though he might have taken it the wrong way, it was for just in case he hurts her more than she hurts him. "Talk later," She mumbled, hunger slowly growing onto her as her gaze was scanning every nook and cranny on his chest. Instead of a leg, instead of his ear, why not his heart?... She'll save that for last, she'll just eat around it. Save the best for last. Aurora hungrily licked her lips, "Food now!" With that signal, she dug her fangs into Spectrum's chest, possibly breaking one of the ribs as she felt his sweet blood go down her throat.

As an Undead, Spectrum couldn't feel pain. Why is it that when Aurora dug her fangs into his chest that it felt like fire was engulfing him? It was the same as every session, making the Luxray weak on his legs. He breathed in his mate's sweet scent, only to digs his fangs to take a piece of the meat that hung on her back. It was a wonderful feeling. They were together again, they weren't fighting, they were happy, they were both each other. Spectrum is Aurora, Aurora is Spectrum. That's how couples are right? To understand each other. It didn't strike him that he felt distant earlier, he felt much more closer. He gulped down the flesh, letting the aftertastes sink it. It always made him want more, but he held back, watching the Glaceon still eating pieces of his chest. If he could, he would give her heart to her right now. But she would never take it. Because she's already aware she had stolen it from him.

Magic word? Bell didn't know any magic words. Her round shape deflated in misery as she realized she would not be able to get any water. Her tail drooped against the back of Braxy's neck as she sat dehydrated in the hot sun. Suddenly the rock on the dinosaur's head felt not-so-inviting as it had before. It burned at the touch, it seemed, and she was unable to get comfortable. Completely dejected, she was about to give up and jump off, when suddenly, sure heard it, just faintly from somewhere nearby.

"...please!"

Bell nearly jumped at the realization. "Please! Please!" She shouted, from the top of Braxy's head. Settling down somewhat, she looked over the top, poking her head out enough to look at his face. "Please can we go find some water?" Quite proud of herself, she beamed as she stared at Braxy's eyes. She was quite thirsty.

"Please! Please! Please can we go find some water?" Oh, Specky, you stupid lion. Braxton grinned up at the pleading Poliwag, knowing that the small water type had heard the Luxray's shout towards his mate. His hearing might have been going, might be halfway gone, but he could still hear enough just to hear the lion's yell. Ah, well, priorities. He thought to himself, finally ending his slow meandering at the entrance of the Pokemon Center. Giving a small grunt, he used both of his arms to clutch the closed sliding doors and force them open. They gave resistance, but after putting more shoulder into it the doors relented and he entered into the building. Hm... He rubbed his chin in thought, looking around the place - it was surprisingly tidy, if not for a few blood splatters and many personal items thrown about haphazardly. The couch cushions on the side were torn to shreds, and the natural light from above revealed that there was a gaping hole in the Pokemon Center's roof.

"A'ight, Bellsy, we gotta start somewhere," Braxton mumbled, the calming sunlight beams an odd comfort. The Rampardos stepped up to the counter, and gently bent his head downward, picking up the tadpole and placing her on the table. Standing back up to his full height, the dinosaur stretched his arms upward lazily before bending down to Bells' standing point. "You can look 'round here, and I'll be quick to look at the hot spring outside, 'kay?" He spoke in a delighted tone, gentle but giving instruction. He paused momentarily, his red eyes looking into hers, before giving a firm nod and going to the aforementioned room. Braxton wasn't exactly sure if he were in his right mind to leave the little one alone, even if for a bit, but he couldn't forget Lady Midday's words - that heat speeds up infection. Fire and heat were Lavaridge's signature tourist sightings, and even more so were the hot springs. Fire and water and heat combined; it was basically the perfect place for a surprise attack. Bah! I'm too old to be overthinkin' like this! Sheesh! Grumbling to himself, the Head Butt Pokemon stalked out of the Pokemon Center's back door and to the hot springs...

Braxton had visited the hot springs every once in a while, back in the day. He had been sneaking around, of course, and it was at night, but the warm waters had always calmed his nerves. Now, in the broad daylight, the Rampardos found himself staring at water of a sickly purple color, ugly in its mixture. "Eugh..." He murmured, looking deeper into the purple gunk. Now that he inspected even further, he noticed there were lumps in the liquid, and taking a tentative step closer, he could make out that these were Pokemon that were floating about lazily in the water. Those... Those are Glooms! Ack! Their flowers were dilapidated beyond recognition other than a shriveling flower, and it appeared as if they were sleeping; perhaps he could get away, grab Bells and the others and hitch a high ride elsewhere. Glooms were widely known for their spores and spreading diseases, things that they needed to avoid in this day and age. With one last cautious glance at the sleeping infected Pokemon (what else could they be if they were swimming in that gunk?!), Braxton turned around and headed back into the Center. "Bells, li'l gal," he called for her sweetly, trying his best to sound upbeat and calm. "Did you find water? ... 'Cause I couldn't find any, hah." He let out a nervous chuckle at the end, eyes flickering anxiously.

[Aiyah, skip please. ;w; I'm sorry to keep everyone waiting so long just for it to end up being a skip, but I really couldn't think of something decent for Lady Midday to do. xD Probably still checkin' out the corpses.]

A scream of a useless Spoink fills the air; as well as the soft demonic laughter of a Ninetails, pinning the Spoink down with a bloody paw. They were at the edge of Lavaridge, right next to Route 112, and having a delightful time! The Ninetails smirks as the Spoinks pointless struggle to get free, pushing his paw harder into it's chest and laughing louder. It was hard not to laugh. Who wouldn't laugh at the pain of a poor Spoink? Only the insane ones, of course! Glaring around him, the Ninetails slowly releases the Spoink, however - before it could bound away, he snatches it with his jaw and throws him towards a rock wall. The Spoink - now too tired and weak to move - lay there, helpless.

"Here's the little piggy..." The Ninetails chimed, padding happily and cheerfully towards the Spoink, now attempting to move but failing miserably.

"See his snout!" He pokes the Spoinks snout, laughing a bit and circling around the bloody pokemon. Who knows, maybe this could be a new friend!

"Slit him open..." The Ninetails puts a claw to it's chest, grinning a large, maniacal grin. With a small chuckle, he finished his little rhyme. "... And guts fall out!" With a quick slash, the Spoink was in two, blood all over the ground and over the ninetails, who snatches up the left side of his prey and gleefully walks towards the edge of Route 112. The Spoink, earlier, had challenged the Ninetails, knowing that the Spoink wa such a low level, the ninetails took the challenge.

"... No one messes with Bleek."

Aurora licked the blood that covered her lips, finishing up her meal that left Spectrum staring at her with loving eyes. The Glaceon blinked, glancing over at him with an 'what-the-fuck' expression. Him with loving eyes? That obviously meant he was thinking of their relationship, "What?" She spat. Why did he give her that weird gaze? The Luxray gave a heavy sigh, as if deep in his possibly dirty thoughts before returning Aurora's answer, "Nothing much, you're rather pretty tonight..." Nothing was special at the moment, they ate each other, and that's it. That's their daily routine, so why giver her that look? And why did he point out she was pretty? Sure, she liked it, but why now? And it's not even nighttime! Spectrum was so weird, his mind was like a maze for her.

Hell, why did she even bother to interpret his thoughts? No way in hell could she possibly understand what goes on through his dimwit brain! She forced herself up, padding over towards the door before the Luxray suddenly stopped her with his voice, "Hey! Where are you goin'?" His tone was child-like as usual, rather keen on sticking around with Aurora. She heaved a heavy sigh, pushing the door open anyways, "Can't keep the group waiting too long." She replied softly. Her feet were strangely weaker than usual, even after that meal she was still hungry.

The Gleam Eyes Pokemon frowned at Aurora's sudden intention to leave. Though usually they would have a short conversation, sharing their thoughts about their memories. What's with her? They're growing distant again... He shifted his gaze towards the pool of blood that laid next to him, he was a rather messy eater. Maybe that's why she wanted to get out as soon as possible? No, she wasn't that much of a clean freak. Spectrum sighed, it was no use going deep into his thoughts to figure out what goes through his mate's mind. All he hoped for was that they'd make up as soon as possible and only go through their world. It wasn't like Spectrum didn't like the group, but maybe that's why the Glaceon was so distant? Then again, she barely talked to them and wasn't that much of the social type. What's really going through her head?... If it wasn't Aurora that was growing distant, maybe it was the Luxray himself? He had tried staying by her side several times, and usually offered to go with her everywhere. It's not possible that Spectrum was the one at fault here...

"Did you find water? ... 'Cause I couldn't find any, hah." Braxton chuckled from the Pokemon Center. The Glaceon trudging away from the house as quickly as she could in order to not get caught. However, she paused upon the thought of water. She actually ran into some in the last town... But at the moment it's far from here, and would take a day or two's trip depending on which route they take. Clearing her throat, she dragged herself over to the Pokecenter where the Poliwag and Rampardos were, glancing over at both of them before shifting her crimson gaze off to the house she came from; "I found water earlier in one of the houses..." She began, the Glaceon surprisingly sounding kind and genuine, "It's not in a pool or anything, more like a bottle," She had to admit, the water was in a plastic bottle when she went searching in houses for a good spot to have her feast. It scared her, but then again, human inventions were usually made to be useful. Certainly, it was. It wasn't infected, it was perfectly safe in a arceus-damned bottle. "But it'll be hard to open it, since it belonged to humans," She added her comment quickly. It's not like she wanted to make them lose hope or anything. But it was a human invention. Which means only humans could use it. Which made things pretty crappy for her.

As the door slammed shut behind the Luxray, it caught the attention of the Glaceon. He stared ahead into the Pokemon Center where his mate -- along with the Headbutt Pokemon and the Tadpole Pokemon -- were. Feeling rather upbeat upon the sight of the old guy, he hopped over there, glancing at each of their faces with a smile before asking, "What'cha guys talkin' about?" Before he could receive a response, he heard a snort come from the Ice-type, her eyes rather neutral than dull with life. At least she was getting better by the minute! "Ehhh... Just water. They're looking for water." She responded quietly, the Luxray immediately remembering about the bottled waters he came across when he explored this land to check if it was safe back before he had met everyone. His eyes sparkled at the thought, facing Braxton and Bells with enthusiasm, "Oh! Oh! Oh! I know where they are! I could show them to you guys if you want!" Though at the corner of his eyes he could feel his mate rolling her eyes at his childish acts. He honestly felt more useful now! Maybe the Rampardos could give him training lessons after this too!

Bell grunted slightly when Braxy put her down- she liked it all the way up there! She could see more! However, she was happy for the chance to find some water. Hopping around, searching the center, however, proved to be fruitless. No matter where she looked, she just couldn't seem to find any. She was feeling drier by the minute, with this heat, and needed to find water fast. When Braxy came back, she shook her body sadly. "Nu-uh."


She hadn't noticed when the others had returned, but she jumped at the male's voice. When he said he knew where to find water though... Bell jumped high in the air. "Yes please! Yes please!"

"Yes please! Yes please!"

Bell cried out in jubilation, and he would have agreed to go find the water himself and open up the water bottle (seeing as he was the only one with hands), if he hadn't heard a gurgled scream. Braxton rubbed his chin in question; as much as he wanted to help the little pipsqueak find water, it was as much his priority to keep her safe too. He looked at Aurora and Spectrum as they shifted into the Pokemon Center, wondering if they had heard it too, but they showed no signs of such. Bah, I'm too old to play hero. He grumbled quietly, looking at the Poliwag upon the counter. After some thought, the Rampardos picked up Bells and placed her on Aurora's back, making sure that she wouldn't fall. "All righty. Aurora, spend some quality time wit' li'l Bellsy and get 'er that water, maybe even ask Midday to help open it up." He refrained from mentioning the sleeping Glooms or the death scream earlier. Heck, he was holding a lot from them, knowing that if they knew, they'd call him out and say they didn't need any protecting.

Nodding to the two females respectively (chivalry is always a good quality amongst men), Braxton turned his gaze over to Spectrum expectantly. "And you, my fellow man, we're going to practice together," he said, stressing on the word 'practice' to emphasize that it was more than just practicing. The dinosaur made his way outside of the Pokemon Center, waving to Spectrum to follow after. Tail up to prevent dragging and head low to prevent detection, Braxton sneaked quietly along the edge of Lavaridge, until he came upon the lone entrance to and out of the town. His red eyes stared wholly on the sight before him, not even able to turn around to tell Spectrum to be quiet, not even able to see if the Luxray had followed after, or if Aurora had indeed decided to follow after also.

"... No one messes with Bleek." A bloodied Ninetails stood amongst the ripped entrails of a Spoink, though the fox seemed to have killed it for the thrill of it, not to fill his stomach. Eugh. Staying stock still, Braxton waited to see if 'Bleek' was going to provoke further action.

[ooc: I left it open if you wanted Aurora to just follow too, or if either of them followed at all LOL]

Looking at the Rampardos, Bleek smiles devilishly and winks, picking up the ripped up Spoink in his mouth and trotting away into the distance. Bleek knew he might be coming back... That rampardos, in fact, did look like a rather lovely meal...

([ooc: Leaving post.])

She couldn't keep her eyes off the corpses. I wonder why? It wasn't out of fear or disgust that the Mismagius continued to watch the lying corpses as they rotted away; it was more like a captivation. She had always been a rather scientific sort of character, and what better way was there to study science than corpses where you could already see what was inside? Even the famed Leonardo da Vinci used to take corpses to aid in his anatomy study. Of course, Lady Midday wouldn't dare even try to touch those rotting figures with the wisps that she could've called 'hands' though they were nowhere close to that; what kind of lady gave physical contact to dead bodies? Gross. Her eyes looked to and from the bodies of man, woman, and child alike, some faces seemingly familiar and others complete strangers.

Ugh. She was going to be sick.

With a slight 'humph', the ghost turned her head and floated right out of the gym building, not even having to concern herself with the broken shards that littered and had strewn themselves across the formerly spotless floor, now crusted with old rust and fresher blood. Much had changed, though Lady Midday hadn't spent that long away from Lavaridge Town after its initial collapse. It just went to prove how fast things could change in the new environment. In any case... Where were the others? A slight puff in her cheeks, the Mismagius glanced around, floating higher for a better viewing point around the area. Of course, that big dinosaur immediately slid right into her line of sight, just having emerged from the pokémon center, his head as shiny as ever ( Hehe! ). With a low swoop, she followed the dinosaur as he suddenly stood still at the border of the town. Did he find anything? Was it something interesting?

A bloody Spoink laid on the ashen grassy ground, a long tear stretching across its belly and its guts spread in a dark red line on the ground below the pig. Lady Midday watched the scene over Bradley Brandon Braxton's shoulder as a grinning Ninetails gave a dark wink at the dinosaur before picking up his apparent prey and walking off, further into the wild. Lady Midday blinked once, twice, and then glanced over at the Rampardos before looking back at the direction where the Ninetails had gone. The fox had already disappeared. A small frown let itself spread across the Mismagius's face in disappointment; though she did not know who that fire fox pokémon was, he seemed like a pretty interesting guy. Instead, she turned her focus back to Braxton, waving a robe 'arm' in front of his face to get his attention better. "So... did you find anything?" she questioned, a tilt to her head's posture.

((Skip please, was stalling for TK, but I need Aurora to continue. XD))

God damned! Braxton knew he was getting old, but it was moments like these that reminded him of how different each generation is to the next. The Rampardos huffed in mild confusion as the bloody Ninetails winked at him playfully, before bounding away as if the fire type had not just killed an innocent Spoink. What was the world coming to when you couldn't even trust the living to not kill savagely? "So... did you find anything?" Lady Midday floated into his field of vision, the glint in her eye as bright as ever. He wasn't sure whether or not he should pretend that the Ninetails had never been there, or acknowledge that he was but pretend that it didn't bother him. I'm gettin' too old to be worryin' 'bout these kind of stuff. Braxton rose to his full height (he had no reason to hide now), feeling sort of awkward for his overreaction to danger.

These were fully capable Pokemon that stood beside him, with the exception of little Bell, each of them strong in their own right. Heck, they probably had more of a chance of surviving this epidemic than he did! Craning his neck to stretch it, he gave a shrug in response to the Mismagius. "Nah, nothin' too important, yeah." He rolled his shoulders, trying to deftly change the subject without seeming too embarrassed. "How 'bout you? Have you seen anythin' of int'rest?"