Disclaimer:
This work is fiction. The work has no (intentional) relationship with any person existing at any time anywhere whether real or imaginary or copy written.
Feedback will be read, processed, and if it’s a flame it will be given the finger, then I will burst into hysterical laughter. Constructive feedback, be it criticism or praise, will be read, processed, given a smile, and filed away. To contact me, please send an email to socom.seal@(SPAM)yahoo.com. Remove (SPAM) for a valid email.
You should not read this if you are not of legal age where you reside. This work can contain rape, BDSM, cannibalism, and probably anything else my sick, twisted mind can come up with.
Note: All times are in a mix of military and standard times. For example, 1AM = 0100 hours = 1:00, while 1PM = 1300 hours = 13:00. I hope this will make it easier on readers to understand the timeline while leaving me in a format that I understand better. If it causes too much of a problem I will switch to standard.
~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~
“<<Text>>” Means that it is being spoken in a language other than English.
“This is telepathic thought”
Chapter 21
<16:00, Dublin>
“EXCUSE ME?” Claire screeched. “What the FUCK are you doing?”
Andrew glanced at Shamira. “Let her through.” He whispered. He looked to Aella. “You heard me, Aella. We’re doing 2v1, 2v2 if you include me. Kill the tamer. Begin.”
Aella grinned and quickly slithered into him, knocking them both to the ground. “I win!” She yelled, laughing.
Andrew chuckled. “You sure do.” He glared at Shamira mock seriously. “Hey, what gives?”
She sighed. “Yea, yea. Thanks for giving me the extra break.”
He looked back to Claire. “Aella’s got the memo. Let’s go.”
She grit her teeth. “What. Are. You. Doing?”
Andrew frowned. “Welcome to real life, Claire. You really think Sanctuary is going to follow some sort of rules? No. They’re going to go straight for me. So is every feral with half a survival instinct. Go for the weak link.”
Adria nodded. “I’m a pretty prime example of that.”
He chuckled. “Bingo. Now, we’re going to do this right. I would appreciate not getting shot, or bit, or anything like that, but hell. If you’re going to do it at least make sure it’s nowhere vital.”
Claire was shaking her head. “We’re not doing this. I am not putting you intentionally at risk.”
Andrew’s gaze hardened. “Then the free day is over. You’re relieved, Claire. Grace, Aella, Shamira. Go.”
Grace leapt forward but Shamira growled and met her in midair, the Goldina’s fur and claws growing slightly as she hit the Mini-Top head on. She hissed when Aella darted in, sinking her fangs into Shamira’s side, injecting her paralysis poison and causing her to lose her grip on Grace, who used the opportunity to land a few solid punches and disengage. Aella followed suit, letting her poison slow Shamira. “She’s stronger than before.” Grace muttered, drawing her pistol. “I don’t want to close-“
She gasped in shock as Shamira blurred forward, ripping her claws through Grace’s stomach, whirling towards Aella as a capture beam retrieved Grace. The Naga barely dodged the attack, as the paralysis poison finally took some effect, throwing Shamira’s aim. Nonetheless, she immediately reoriented herself and slammed Aella to the ground in a vicious takedown attack that left her nearly unconscious. Trying to utilize her only real strength, Aella grabbed Shamira’s head and started wrapping around her, but screamed in pain when the Goldina’s claws finished what they had started that morning, carving chunks out of Aella’s tail.
“Hold!” Andrew yelled, returning Aella and tossing both pokeballs to Claire. “Run them. Lyn, stay on the PPHU. You’re not going to have to fight Shamira. Adria, Claire, you’re up.”
Claire nodded and pulled on her helmet. “Adria, hit and run. I’m best suited for this.”
The Groaning nodded. “If she grabs me I’m screwed. I’m counting on you.” She tapped her ear. “Channel 2.”
Claire summoned her wings and jumped forward, Adria phasing into the floor. Shamira countered Claire’s slash and returned the favor, her claws cutting shallow grooves in the armor. Andrew nodded thoughtfully. “You know, I never thought about it, but an Armsmistress is probably Shamira’s greatest counter. Fighting and Steel versus Normal? No chance.”
Claire laughed and scored a few hits before jumping backwards as Adria erupted from the ground to drain Shamira. “Good to know.”
Shamira hissed and slashed at Adria, who avoided the attack and slipped back into the floor, Claire instantly taking her place and pressing the flagging Goldina back. “How are you so synchronized?” Shamira grunted, trading blows with Claire.
“You’ll find out.” Adria called. “Oops, tamer’s in trouble.”
Shamira whirled around to see the smirking Groaning reaching for Andrew. She instantly shoved Claire away and leapt for Adria, impacting and sending the Groaning careening into a wall, where she sat, stunned. Andrew waited a few seconds while Shamira returned to fighting Claire and triggered Adria’s return beam, as the Groaning was out cold.
Meanwhile Claire was succeeding in dealing moderate damage to Shamira, as her armor was taking the brunt of everything the Goldina could dish out. “Ha!” She cried triumphantly as she managed to sneak past Shamira’s guard and slice a bloody streak into her chest.
Shamira blinked in pain. “Took you long enough.” She growled as her face elongated into a muzzle. “You finally decided to push me to my limit.”
Claire’s eyes widened and she quickly winged away to use focus energy. Unfortunately for her, Shamira wasn’t going to let her; she immediately blitzed forward and cannoned into Claire for a devastating double edge. Andrew winced as he heard bones snap, the two falling to the ground in a shower of dirt and blood. Shamira was the first to get up, and quickly fell on Claire’s prostrate form, but Claire retaliated with a whirlwind that threw Shamira back. She swayed slightly, but stepped forward when Claire got to her feet.
“You outmatch me.” Claire noted, catching her breath. “But you can’t touch me.”
Shamira growled low in her throat. “Though your armor has saved you, it cannot hold forever.”
Claire grinned ruefully and danced forward, her blade seeking Shamira’s chest. “I’m afraid it can.”
Shamira chuckled darkly and ducked the sword, smashing her fist into Claire’s sternum. “I’m afraid it can’t.”
Claire screamed when her chestpiece shattered, driving shards of metal into her stomach, followed by Shamira’s claws. She withdrew her hand and licked the blood from it as Andrew quickly recalled Claire, tossing the two pokeballs to Lyn for cycling. “Well, shit.”
Shamira’s fur and features began to return to normal and she staggered. “Can I get some of that?” She muttered, sitting down hard. “A couple more minutes and I would have collapsed.”
Andrew nodded and recalled her, passing her pokeball to Lyn as well. “And that’s a wrap.” He grinned. “You’d probably have taken her down.”
Lyn shook her head in awe. “Yea, I don’t think so. I wouldn’t have lasted a couple of minutes. A couple of seconds, maybe.”
Andrew chuckled. “Let’s let the cycle finish and we’ll do a debriefing.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Claire poked at her newly repaired chestpiece. “I would be pretty mad if I had to make another one. Two sets of armor in two days?”
Andrew chuckled. “That’s what you get for taunting a girl who’s as strong as a Panthress. You did well to keep up.”
She shook her head. “I would have been screwed if that was a 1v1 and we were both fresh. I was constantly being pushed back.”
Shamira nodded. “I gain a lot of strength when I shift forms like that. I’m not sure how much, but the first time it happened I nearly demolished a section of the ranch.”
Andrew nodded and pulled out his ‘dex. “I want us to go over the fights so we can learn from what we did wrong, but first I want to show you all the relevant parts of the Goldina entry. I wrote it out while I was meditating.”
Lyn grabbed the ‘dex and scanned the file.
GOLDINA, the Loyal Protector Pokegirl
Type: Near Human (Metamorph)
Element: Normal
Frequency: Extremely Rare
Diet: Omnivore, most prefer meat
Role: Companions, Playmates, Childcare, Strike Units
Libido: Average
Strong Vs: Ghost
Weak Vs: Fighting
Atacks: Takedown, Crunch, Slash, Quick Attack, Double Edge, Pounce, Aura of Calm
Enhancements: Enhanced Speed (x6), Enhanced Durability (x3), Enhanced Senses (x4), Enhanced Agility (x3), Enhanced Strength (x5, x15 when their tamer or pack are threatened), Enhanced Endurance (x6), Metamorph (Alternate Form), Natural Weapons (Claws and Fangs), Nightvision
Evolves: None
Evolves From: Doggirl (Delta Bond and Shiny Stone)
She blinked. “Holy crap.”
Claire took the dex. “Wow. No wonder we couldn’t wear you down, Shamira.”
They passed the dex around; earning groans and sighs from the others. “And as for how they coordinated,” Andrew said, handing Shamira an earpiece, “They used that. Channels 1 through 6 are team channels, 7 is the channel my earpiece is wired to. Even though we have Delta bonds, they’re only between me and you, and not each other. Also, it’s just easier to talk instead of use telepathy.”
She nodded and wiggled it into place. “Why are there six channels?”
Grace spoke up. “He wants an army. Six of six and six reporting to him. Forty pokegirls.”
Andrew shrugged. “Forty two, actually. The most powerful number in the world.”
Lyn grinned. “Got a name for it yet?”
Andrew shook his head. “I have ideas, but nothing concrete. Satsujin, maybe.”
Lyn blinked. “Let’s not travel to Edo if we call it that.”
Andrew chuckled. “Fine, fine. But getting back on track, we’ve got a fight to review.”
They spent an hour going over the recording, after which Andrew let the ‘girls do what they wanted for the rest of the evening, so Shamira sought out Lyn and asked about her bedroom. They walked upstairs, Lyn leading. “So, bedrooms. Everyone in the harem has their own bedroom, and we only sleep in our pokeballs when we have to. In addition you can have your room be whatever you want; mine’s pretty crazy.”
Shamira nodded. “Can I see it? To, you know, get an idea.”
Lyn shrugged. “I don’t see why not.” She said, pushing on the wooden door. Shamira peeked inside. “Wow.”
The walls were made of the same wood as the door, and the entire room seemed to shimmer. “It’s pretty basic, since I’ll be spending most of my time in the workshop. But it’s a pretty cool look, right?”
Shamira nodded. “It looks magical.”
Lyn grinned. “That’s what I was going for! I’m glad it worked.” She shut the door and tapped on the last remaining blank one. “Yours will be in here. Have anything in mind?”
“All I can really think of is a pool. And a bed, of course. I don’t know what the walls should be made of.”
Lyn shrugged and rapped on the door. “I’ll leave it plain then. Just let me know if you want it changed.” She pushed it open. “That good?”
Shamira stepped inside and squeaked when her feet sank into the grassy floor. “Whaa?”
Lyn giggled and pointed to the corner. “I made it kind of outdoors-y. So the pool is a pond.”
Shamira stepped up to it and dipped her feet in the water. “Oh, this is actually perfect. Thank you.”
Lyn grinned. “You’re welcome. Now, I’m going to my workshop. Have fun!”
Shamira waved and slid into the pond, letting the water flow through her fur with a sigh of contentment.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
<08:00, Dublin>
Andrew sat at the conference table and listened as Pyktis made his case. “The reason Bartimaeus hasn’t returned is because you locked Hatasa away. You know that was wrong to do, because you haven’t touched me yet. Why lock him away, and not me?”
Andrew sighed. “First of all, Hatasa attacked me. I retaliated in kind. He needed to be taught a lesson that you don’t.” He scowled. “Yet.”
Pyktis’ body wavered and he hissed. “Do not threaten me. You do not want me angry.”
Andrew smirked. “You’re always angry. It’s what you are. And in addition, I have much more pressing matters than my anger. Or did you think all those cells were just for you?”
Pyktis snorted. “I don’t have any idea what you’re talking about.”
Andrew sighed. “Pride and envy have still not re-manifested. As such, I cannot name them, nor can Bartimaeus return. I’m also still trying to find joy. The two of you used to get along alright, if I recall correctly.”
Mir pouted from her seat. “They did, but I never liked it.”
Pyktis sneered. “Well then I hope joy is next to return. You can stuff it, Mir.”
Andrew shook his head. “I still don’t understand why you all hate Mir. Without them, none of you could exist.”
“Mir takes time away from the rest of us. Of course we hate that.”
Andrew rolled his eyes. “I won’t try to argue with you. But do let me know if another avatar materializes, will you?”
Pyktis shrugged and Andrew opened his eyes to stare at the ceiling. Aella lay curled up next to him. “Hey, you’re awake. Like, really awake. What’s the plan for today?”
Andrew rolled out of the bed. “You wouldn’t happen to know of any available Videogirls, do you? With your connections.”
Aella shook her head. “My only connections are my sisters. And we don’t talk much.”
Andrew shrugged. “Worth a try. I have no idea what a Hunter’s network looks like.” He stepped out the door and made his way to the kitchen, scooping up some food as he did.
Adria and Claire were already in the dining room. “Good morning. Are we going to Dublin?”
Andrew scarfed down his breakfast. “Not Dublin. We’re going to head to Killarny over the next few weeks, and we’ll pass through Naas and Kilkenny on our way down. Hopefully Naas has a pokecenter, since I want to make it there today and process any ferals we find on the way. Any questions?”
Claire raised her hand. “Kill whaty?”
Andrew chuckled. “We’re going through Killarny, on our way to Kilkenny. A little confusing, I know. Also-“ He stopped when his pokedex started beeping.
Claire sat up a little. “Is it Braxton?”
Andrew pulled up the message and scanned it. “No, it’s from Ms. Roth. The Vale lady. She sent me a list.” His eyes widened. “Well, that’s nice of her.”
Adria looked at him. “What is?”
He tossed the pokedex onto the table. “It’s a list of all the Authors she knows about. Take a look at the top of the list.”
Adria scanned it. “I take it you know what this all means, but I can’t understand what most of it is. Many of these are x’d out. Do you mean these names at the top? Druid, Dragon and the like?”
Andrew nodded. “I’m on there too. Soldier. I know who Druid refers to, but not Dragon. And did you see where it says they are?”
Adria glanced back to the list. “Capital.”
“Bingo. And now we’ve got more than one reason to go over there. So, change of plans. We’re heading into Dublin. There should be a teleport travel agent of SOME sort there that can get us to Capital. And if not, we’ll go back to London, since I can guarantee we’ll find someone there.”
Claire nodded and pushed away from the table. “I’ll get everyone packed up.” She suddenly smirked. “You’re doing this on purpose, aren’t you?”
Andrew blinked. “Doing what?”
“Sadie Poken’s is in two days. You just wanted an excuse to not have to go.”
Andrew groaned. “While I would love to, I don’t think a town having half its psychic types get their brains blown out would be a good thing for me. If it makes you feel any better, it’s a global day; so we’ll be dropping into Capital at the same time.”
Claire shrugged. “That’s fair. In that case, we’d better get going.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
<04:00 Local; 09:00 Blue; Poketown, Capital League>
Andrew thanked the pokegirl behind the desk and stepped into the night air. It hadn’t been hard to find a travel agent, and after a small pilfering of his wallet he was now in Capital. He looked around the darkened streets before making his way along half-remembered streets.
He slowed at the city edge and released Aella from her pokeball. “I can barely see, so I’m counting on you from here. We’re looking for a run down mansion. It should be near a crossroads of some sort.”
Aella nodded. “Why not Mira?”
Andrew grunted. After he had expressed his reasoning behind using Mira as Shamira’s nickname, it had mostly stuck. Shorter and easier to say was apparently important to everyone. “I don’t want either of you distracted. And I know that you, especially, would be.”
Aella giggled. “Alright. Are we looking for Braxton or this mysterious Author?”
“Braxton. Which means be very careful not to appear threatening, or Ashlon may shoot first and interrogate the corpses.”
They walked in silence until the first hints of dawn began peeking over the horizon, at which point they came across what appeared to be an old farmstead.
Andrew stopped and knelt in the dust. “This is weird. The road is supposed to split here, but it’s been washed out.” He glanced around at the fields. “I think this might be the place. See any buildings?”
Aella looked around and pointed to the north. “There’s a large house over that way. It looks ready to fall apart.”
Andrew chuckled. “If it is the place, it won’t. Let’s go.”
They carefully made their way through the fields for a few yards before Aella suddenly stopped. “This isn’t right. There’s something wrong here.”
Andrew was about to ask her for clarification when the earth around them erupted and several pokegirls leapt towards them. Andrew cursed and stumbled backwards, Aella intercepting the lead assailant. He quickly cycled the releases on the rest of the harem’s pokeballs, shouting orders as he did. “Claire, help Aella. Mira you’re on me, everyone else engage hostiles!”
Shamira immediately wrapped him up and jumped towards the clear road, the rest of the girls fanning out behind her. Andrew quickly disengaged himself from the Goldina’s bear hug and surveyed the battlefield. Aella and Claire had nearly instantly incapacitated their opponent and had moved on to help with the others. He tossed a pokeball at the Loamani that was lying on the ground, but frowned when it didn’t activate. “They’re not feral. I repeat, they are not feral.” He spoke rapidly into his earbud. “Adria, peel off. Find the Alpha, but be careful.”
The Groaning nodded and went invisible as another Loamani fell to the ground, Grace moving to finish off the third. Shamira’s nose twitched. “Adria’s on someone’s trail. And she’s coming back.”
The rest of the harem finished off the final Loamani and fell back to the road as Adria reappeared next to Andrew. “There’s another underground. She didn’t seem interested at fighting, and she’s tunneling really quickly towards the house.”
Andrew nodded. “Grab some high strength rope from the packs and secure the three Loamani. I don’t think we’re going to be able to approach the house in a non-threatening manner anymore.”
Grace nodded and began hog-tying the Loamani. “Adria, stick with him. If anything starts to go wrong, phase and get him out of here.”
Andrew waited for her to finish. “We’re going full display of force. Claire and Grace on point, Shamira in front of me. Adria to my left, and keep ahold of me at all times. Aella on my right, Lyn at the back. Move out.”
They began walking towards the house, Claire unsheathing her sword and Grace unslinging her AR. “Who are we expecting?”
Andrew kept scanning the area. “I have no clue. With luck we were just attacked by the equivalent of an itchy trigger finger, and Braxton is inside under guard. If not, we may have just stumbled on a Team operation.”
Shamira grunted. “The runner is inside with multiple others. I can smell two males, at least one other pokegirl”
Andrew called a halt a few meters from the house. “Hello! Why were we attacked?”
There was some muffled discussion. “Can you identify?”
Andrew frowned. “Who am I identifying to?”
“Identify or we will open fire.”
Andrew grimaced. “My name is Andrew. Why was I attacked?”
A female voice piped up. “What tree has the strongest Root?”
Andrew thought for a moment. “I hear the Holly tree, though it is rather Short.”
There was a few moments of silence before the door opened and Braxton emerged, grinning. “Andrew! I didn’t think you’d find me.”
Andrew stepped out from his harem and embraced the other man. “Ah, well, I didn’t know if you’d understand my reference.” He glanced at Ashlon, who was still in the house. “I’m glad someone did.”
She nodded. “It took me a full minute to figure it out. It was well put. Should keep any adversaries off our trail.”
Andrew chuckled. “Thanks. Who’s your friend?”
Braxton stepped back. “Oh, he’s one of mine. You already met his harem out front.”
Andrew laughed. “Claire, Grace, go and grab the Loamani. I have a feeling leaving them tied up and in the dirt isn’t the way to their tamer’s good side.”
Braxton grinned. “He was more scared than angry, but that’s a nice gesture.” He motioned them inside. “Come and meet everyone.”
They stepped inside, Andrew scanning the area. “So where’s this mystery man?”
“Oh, Jason’s probably in the basement with the others.”
Andrew nodded slowly. “Tell me, was this the location of a genetics bust?”
Braxton chuckled. “Yep. It’s exactly as you know it, only now it’s my personal safehouse. Someone might figure out that I’m here, but they’ll be checking the regular spots and Blue before considering Capital.”
Andrew shrugged and slapped a section of wall next to the second floor staircase. “Glad to hear that. I need a Videogirl.”
Braxton blinked when the hidden staircase opened. “You really do know this place.” He looked back to Andrew and they started downstairs, Claire and Grace now catching up with the unconscious Loamani in tow. “You need a Videogirl? I count six pokegirls behind you.”
Andrew sighed. “Don’t care. I need a Videogirl. Hopefully an Upgrade.”
Braxton palmed a scanner and pulled open a heavy door. “I’m still a member of law enforcement. You have six pokegirls. You can’t have seven.”
Andrew grinned. “Six combat. One non-com. That’s the law in some leagues, yes?”
Braxton nodded. “That’s true. And welcome, by the way, to the basement.”
The walls were covered in electronics, and a handful of empty specimen tanks dominated the space. “That’s all nice, but where is the everybody you were talking about?”
The wall monitors began to flicker to life and a variety of figures materialized on them. “Welcome back, sir.” Came the chorus from the Videogirls. “Jason and his Alpha are in the back room.” Continued one.
Andrew’s jaw dropped. “Good lord.”
Braxton laughed and led him through the area. “Let’s head to the organic’s area.” He said, pushing through a set of double doors into a carpeted room where a man sat talking with a pokegirl. They stopped when they saw Claire and Grace carrying the three Loamani.
“I, uh, thank you for not killing them.” The man said quickly, nearly falling out of his chair in his haste to get to his pokegirls. “And, uh, sorry for attacking you.”
Andrew shook his head and motioned Claire and Grace to release the Loamani. “You were doing your job. My ‘girls did theirs.”
Jason bobbed his head. “Yes, uh, quite right. My Alpha, Berry.” He finished, gesturing to the Bawdger sitting at the table.
She bowed. “We were outmaneuvered and outmatched, sir. Thank you for showing mercy.”
Andrew waved her off. “Not a problem, again. Braxton, I still want a Videogirl. You seem to have an abundance.”
Braxton nodded and turned away from Jason, who was busy recalling his pokegirls. “They run the place down here. And though I’m sure I can spare one, why would you need one?”
Andrew jerked his thumb at Shamira. “What breed is she?”
Braxton shrugged. “I don’t know. Doggirl?”
Ashlon’s antennae twitched. “No. She is, but she isn’t.”
Andrew nodded. “Her breed isn’t supposed to exist. I want a Videogirl so I can search for more like her, as well as a few other things you would rather not know.”
Braxton coughed. “Alright, fine. You’ll pay for whomever you choose, though.”
Andrew sighed. “If a Videogirl randomly disappears from a PLC facility and your bank account receives a large sum, wouldn’t that seem suspicious?”
Braxton snorted. “She’s not disappearing. She’s going into retirement, and her Officer in charge received compensation.”
Andrew shrugged. “If that’s how you want to do it, fine. How much?”
“Half a million.”
Andrew nearly choked. “Half a million? What the hell?”
“I know you. You’re going to go for the most experienced one we’ve got stationed here. Half a million.”
Andrew shook his head. “300,000.”
“450”
“400, and I promise not to take your senior member.”
Braxton thought for a second before sticking out his hand. “Deal. If you head back into the other room, you can start asking around and find one you like.” He glared mock seriously at him. “And keep your damn paws off Bri!”
Andrew rolled his eyes and re entered the genetics lab. “How many girls am I speaking to?”
The screens came to life again. “There are twenty-seven Videogirls stationed here.”
Andrew nodded at the woman looking at him. “You’re Bri, correct?” She nodded. “Would you please notify those Videogirls with 70 percent or greater altered programming that I wish to speak with them? I am looking for a Videogirl for my harem.”
Bri looked at him. “And the Lieutenant approved this?”
Andrew looked at her in surprise. “Braxton’s a Lieutenant? Damn. Regardless, yes, he did.”
Braxton’s voice came out of the conference room. “Just listen to the man, Bri.”
The Upgrade Vidgirl smiled at him. “Very well. How would you like to meet the pokegirls you specified? There are nine other Upgrades stationed here, besides me.”
Andrew shrugged. “Virtually is fine. I know having someone strange near your life disk is not a welcome prospect.”
Bri nodded and some of the other screens flickered back to life. “Here they are.”
Andrew surveyed the girls watching him. “I’ll be blunt. If you’re happy being stationed here, and would not like to have that change, you may leave.” He watched two disappear immediately, with a third going shortly after. “Good. Secondly, Bri, is there anyone here you couldn’t do without?” She shook her head so Andrew continued. “Alright. Final initial question; leave if you have problems bending the law.”
Half the remaining Videogirls immediately left, leaving just three. “To what extent would the law be bent?” One asked.
Andrew shrugged. “Multiple tamer profiles under one tamer, blockage of flags, especially in regards to harem size, and networked ghosting would be a few of the things I can think of. No bank robbery or anything like that.”
The questioner nodded. “I’ve done worse.” Her two companions laughed and agreed.
Andrew grinned. “Alright. Thank you, Bri, but if I kept talking to you I think Braxton might get a bit antsy.” He laughed at Braxton’s yell of ‘You’re damned right!’ “Thank you for your help.”
Bri smiled back at him. “My pleasure.” She winked off and Andrew turned back to the three Videogirls watching him.
“Here’s the deal. I run a combat team. We are being hunted by Sanctuary. I need a Videogirl. Questions?”
The middle girl raised her hand. “Would we be required to fight, physically?”
Andrew nodded. “All pokegirls that are in my harem are expected to be proficient in magic and physical combat. Any of you would additionally be required to excel in virtual combat.”
The questioner frowned. “I’m out. I can’t do physical.”
Andrew shrugged as she left. “Fair enough. Any other questions?”
The two remaining Upgrades glanced at each other. “We both seem to be interested enough to still be here. How are you going to choose?”
Andrew chuckled. “A series of questions, maybe. Or a test of proficiency. Not sure yet.” He scratched his chin. “Which of you is senior?”
The girl on his right raised her hand. “I am, Sir. My programming is 16 percent original, and except for Bri, I believe I am the best of the girls stationed here.”
Andrew glanced at the other. “Is she correct?”
She shrugged. “I have never beaten Cortney in a test. She is definitely more experienced than I am.”
Andrew nodded thoughtfully. “Last question. Which of you wants to come with me?”
The other Videogirl laughed. “I am satisfied here, though I have always wanted to expand. Cortney, on the other hand…”
Cortney grinned. “I believe I would be your best bet, Sir. Shila will take the opportunity of my departure to work harder and take my place. I, however, have reached the peak I can attain here.”
Andrew nodded. “Very well. Thank you both for your consideration.” He turned and poked his head into the conference room. “Braxton, may I please have Cortney’s disk?”
“I’m actually right here, Sir.”
Andrew whirled around. “Well, that was quick.”
Cortney stood in front of him, data disk in hand. “I am fully disengaged from this location’s computers. May I please see your pokedex?”
Andrew handed her his dex, and she carefully opened the back cover, nestling her data disk in between the wires before replacing the cover and handing the dex back to him. “Thank you. I will now retire to my new location.” She said, vanishing and reappearing on the pokedex screen.
Andrew turned back to Braxton. “I guess that’s that.”
Braxton chuckled. “I’m almost glad you chose Cortney. She’s been getting antsy.”
Andrew nodded. “Thank you very much. Cortney, please wire 400,000 SLC to whatever account Braxton specifies, and once you’ve done that, please search for ranch owned Doggirls that are described as being greater than 5’10” and of a yellow coloring. I’m moderately certain that a pokeball’s code holds that information.”
Cortney’s avatar nodded on screen. “I will get right on that. The usual account, Lieutenant?”
Braxton nodded. “Yes please, Cortney. And good luck.”
The Upgrade nodded and turned off the pokedex screen as she left to begin working. “Are you safe here, Braxton?” Andrew asked.
Braxton sighed. “Safe enough. I’ll be in touch if something happens.”
“Alright. I’m heading out, and I’ve got miles of wilderness to cover. Stay safe.”
Braxton grabbed Andrew in another handshake as he turned to leave. “You as well, Andrew. You play a dangerous game.”
Andrew smiled. “No more dangerous than you.”
Braxton waved at Andrew’s back as he left with his harem. “No more dangerous than me, no. But I’m dangerous enough.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
<17:00, Poketown>
Andrew ducked into a bar and sauntered to the counter. “A beer please.”
The bartender poured a mug and slid it down, waving off Andrew’s proffered chip. “Drinks are free this week. It’s on the town’s tab.”
Andrew nodded and took a sip, looking over the area. Since it was still early in the evening it wasn’t too crowded, but he could see the regulars beginning to form into their own groups. Avoiding them, he sat down by a loner. “Evenin’. I’m not from around here, so I was wondering if you might give me a few tips on excitement.”
The other man glanced at Andrew. “Excitement? Watch a few official WAPL Tamers go at it. That’ll give you excitement.” He gulped his drink. “That or strip and walk into the wilds. I can guarantee you’ll be excited in no time.”
Another man piped up. “Don’t mind him. He’s just moping cuz his ‘girls will probably leave him tomorrow. There’re reports of some strong ferals in the area, if you fancy a hunt. Might even be a dragon type or two out there.”
The other man’s partner laughed. “Dragons! Mate, you want to see a Dragon, you head back south. I was glad to have an excuse to get out of there, even if it is because of Poken’s.”
Andrew perked up. “What kind of dragon type are you talking about?”
The man snorted. “Not a dragon type. A Dragon. Boy’s not right, he ain’t.”
The first man sighed. “I still don’t believe your story. A Pokeboy walks out of the forest breathing fire? Buuuuuuulllshit.”
Andrew slid towards them. “Where did this happen?”
The second man gestured with his empty mug. “Back down in Wildsburg. Some Poke cursed man came out of the woods and attacked the guards. Water type had ‘ta put him out.”
Andrew got up and walked to the door. “Sounds interesting. I’ll have to check it out.”
The first man was still arguing when he left. “Al, I still say you saw a pokegirl. Humans don’t fight toe ta toe with ‘em, even if this was a cursed.”
Andrew continued walking down the street and ducked into a side alley where he met back up with Adria. “How’s the eavesdropping going?”
The Groaning shrugged. “Mostly just local talk. Though if you want to see a good show, apparently a clown and a ranger are about to have a pokegirl battle.”
Andrew chuckled. “Leave it to Capital to turn pokegirl battles into entertainment, instead of survival. My direct approach has had some better luck, and I’ve got a good lead. We’re going to head south.”
Adria nodded. “After the festival, right?”
Andrew sighed. “If only because Tamers here are legally obligated to attend, yes. But we’re going to spend Sadie Poken’s Day back in Blue. I just don’t feel comfortable being in Capital for extended periods of time.”
They left the alley and started back towards where they had pitched the tent. “Apparently tomorrow is going to be very busy. The top Tamers are going to be accepting challenges.” Adria remarked.
Andrew shivered. “No. And I will be avoiding them as much as I can. They’re part of the reason I’m so nervous here.”
The came to a stop when Claire appeared, running towards them. “I did it! I did it!” She exclaimed excitedly, skidding to a halt.
“Did what?!” Andrew asked.
Claire showed him the ribbon on her breastplate. “I qualified for the finals in the middleweight fights. They’re held tomorrow.”
Andrew grinned and gave her a high-five. “Congratulations! Do you know what everyone else is doing?”
She shook her head. “There was a marksmanship contest, so I bet Grace is there, but I don’t know where anyone else is.”
Andrew nodded and continued walking to the tent. “Well, everyone knows where the tent is, so we’ll wait for them to get back.”
They wove through the small campground and ducked inside, where Shamira was lounging. She waved lazily to them as they entered. “Congratulations Claire. I wasn’t expecting that to happen.”
Claire giggled. “You didn’t get any stronger, so it wasn’t hard.”
Andrew glanced between them. “You two fought?”
Shamira nodded. “Apparently when I’m the one threatening my pack, I don’t get a boost for it.”
Andrew laughed. “I’m kind of glad for that. Does, uh, that mean you actually tried to, you know…?”
Shamira blushed but nodded. “We were going all out.”
Andrew groaned but paused when an amplified voice resonated through the city. “Would the Tamer of the Naga and Enchantress duo please report to the sex arena to retrieve your pokegirls.”
Andrew rubbed his eyes. “I wonder who that would be.” He grumbled, heading back outside. “Lyn. Aella. Where are you?”
There was a groggy response, but neither was able to respond clearly through the radio. Sighing, he made his way through the arenas and walked to the last one that was still illuminated. Pushing through the throng of tamers, he waved at the attendant. “They’re probably mine.”
The attendant glanced at him and gestured at the other Tamers. “You aren’t the first to make a claim.”
Andrew glanced around and his gaze hardened. “And how would these people be prepared to retrieve them? Since I’m the only one with their registered pokeballs.”
A couple of Tamers ducked out, but one turned to Andrew. “Hey man, back off. We all know you’re just bluffing. I’m just here to retrieve Pinky.”
Andrew grinned. “Hey man. I’m from Blue. Over there, we don’t take kindly to people stealing pokegirls. We especially don’t like people renaming them. Aella and Lyn are coming with me.”
The other man shrugged. “Fight me for em, then.”
Andrew shrugged. “Fine.” He replied, sinking his fist into the other Tamer’s stomach and hammering his other fist into the back of his skull when he bent over. “And I win.” He glanced at the assembled Tamers. “Anyone else want to try to claim my pokegirls?”
The crowd was gone before Andrew finished speaking and he turned to the attendant, handing him the two pokeballs. “I am going to feel very embarrassed if they aren’t mine.”
He chuckled. “They had to register their names. Aella and Lyn are correct.”
Andrew sighed in relief. “Thank goodness. What happened?”
The attendant poked his thumb at the tent. “See for yourself. And I don’t need these; just reclaim them and you’re fine.” He added, handing the ‘balls back to Andrew.
Andrew walked up the steps behind him and peeked into the contestant tent. “Well, that explains why they weren’t responding on the radio.”
Aella was completely wrapped around Lyn’s body, and they were both fast asleep. “Lust dust. They started going at each other instead of their opponents.”
Andrew laughed and triggered the return beams, stepping back to the ground. “Hey, it’s the best way to lose.”
The attendant grinned and started shutting the lights down. “Agreed. Have a good night, sir.”
Adrew stepped away and noticed Grace walking towards him. “How was your day?” He asked, falling into stride.
The Mini-Top frowned. “Terrible. They wouldn’t let me use my weapons, and the ones they provided sucked.”
Andrew shrugged. “They’ve got to make it an even playing field somehow.”
She sighed. “Except they let the GunValkyries and Ballisticunt use their plasma weapons. So it wasn’t very even.”
Andrew nodded. “Then you just have to do that much better. How’d you know where to find me?”
“Claire radio’d me and told me to meet up with you, since you didn’t have a guard.”
Andrew rolled his eyes as they ducked into the tent. “Curses. My plans to run off and die were foiled yet again.”
Grace smiled. “It’s not that we’re worried you’ll kill yourself; we’re worried someone might try to kill you.” Her smile grew. “Although to be honest, we’re not too certain on the first part.”
Andrew waved his hand. “Yea, yea.” He sat at the table and pulled out his pokedex. “Cortney?”
The Upgrade Videogirl appeared and nodded at him. “Sir. I have not yet been able to fully scan for the traits you specified, though I have found a few positive results.”
Andrew shrugged. “That’s fine. I was actually going to add to your workload. I want you to start compiling profiles on humans and pokegirls around me, and notify me if any appear frequently. Especially if they’re ones I’m not interacting with.”
Cortney nodded. “I will begin that. Is there anything else you require?”
Andrew thought for a moment. “Whenever possible, it would be nice if you scanned local communications for anyone discussing me, especially with hostile intent. Known aliases are ‘Ranger’ and ‘Soldier’.” He frowned. “There was something else too, but it’s slipped my mind.”
“I will get on that. And when you have anything else, just let me know.”
Andrew replaced the ‘dex and stretched. “Well, I’m exhausted. I don’t care what time it is here, in Blue I’m asleep.” He disappeared upstairs, Grace close on his heels. “Good night everyone.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
<10:00, Poketown>
“Good morning ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to the finals of the pokegirl strength battle arena event here during the Sadie Pokens celebrations. You just witnessed an Omegan destroy her opponent through subterfuge and take home the Lightweight crown; and earlier, a Paperdoll earned the aptly named Featherweight title. Now we’re moving onto the Middleweights. Our final four contestants are ready to get at each other in order to prove who is the best here! Let’s hear it for them!”
Andrew joined the crowd in applause as the referee stepped aside and allowed the four finalist pokegirls to step forward. Claire was second from the left, with a Grand Mistress on the left, a Warcat on the right, and another Armsmistress on the far right. “You’ve got this, Claire!”
The referee stepped back in. “And the matchups we will be seeing today will be: Lijun the Grand Mistress versus Hauteclere the Armsmistress, and Selina the Warcat versus Aude the Armsmistress. And of course, the two victors will compete for the title. Our first match will be Lijun versus Hauteclere. Here we goo!”
The referee and other two contestants cleared the ring, leaving Claire and her opponent sizing each other up. “Oh, I’m always so nervous.” The Grand Mistress said, withdrawing a hip flask and taking a swig. “That should calm me down.” She giggled, hiccupping as she swayed slightly.
Andrew straightened up at her display, but kept his voice low so as not to give the referee a reason to disqualify Claire. “She’s a Zui Quan user. Claire’s in for a rough time.”
Shamira frowned. “She looks drunk. She’s going to get slaughtered.”
Andrew nodded as the referee began the fight. “Zui Quan. Drunken Style. It’s all an act.”
Shamira’s jaw dropped when Claire’s initial probe pushed Lijun backwards, the Grand Mistress bending and snapping back around to land a hit under Claire’s guard. “Holy shit.”
Andrew winced as Lijun continued her antics. “Zui Quan is more of a dance than a fight. But it’s a dance where every move has the potential to injure your opponent.” He shuddered. “And with a pokegirl, even the smallest of taps are magnified.”
In the ring, Lijun gave Claire a lopsided grin and took another swig from her flask. “I’s starting to feel better.” She said, the swaying increasing. “Why’re you lookin’ at me like that?”
A man elbowed in next to Andrew as Claire dove back onto her opponent. “It’s not an act, actually. She’s drinking soda water.”
Andrew nodded. “Impressive. You’re her tamer?”
The other man extended his hand. “Jeffrey Banks. The Armsmistress is yours?”
Andrew took his hand. “Andrew Ranger. Claire’s mine.”
The other man returned his gaze to the ring. “Two evolved Amazons, going at it. Lijun’s a Kapoeraa, and I’m assuming Hauteclere’s a Wu?”
A smile tugged at Andrew’s mouth. “Zui Quan has a few weaknesses. One of which is every time she whirls, she takes her eyes off her opponent. And it’s a mostly counter based art, yes?”
Jeffrey raised an eyebrow. “Those are both correct, but you’re avoiding my question.”
Andrew nodded. “She’s not a Wu. She’s not evolved from an Amazon, either.” He clapped his hands together. “There we go!”
In the ring Lijun had spun to a stop and was peering around in confusion. “Wha? Hey, girly, where’d you go?”
Claire suddenly rocketed out of the sky, her wings easily visible against her ebony armor and smashed into her opponent, sending both tumbling along the ground. “Right here.” She hissed, raining blows on the stunned Grand Mistress.
Jeffrey jumped when Claire slammed into Lijun. “Holy shit! You managed to get a Valkyrie to evo?”
Andrew laughed in delight. “Not only that, but she’s learned not to depend on her wings. It makes for quite the nasty surprise, yes?”
Jeffrey winced when the referee motioned Claire away from Lijun and began counting. “Well played. Well, well played. It looks like she’s going to the final match.”
Andrew nodded as the referee finished his count and raised Claire’s hand. “There’s the ruling. Do compliment Lijun on her art, by the way? Against an Amazon-evolved Armsmistress it would have been decimating.”
Jeffrey joined in the applause as Claire returned to the competitors tent, medical pokegirls taking care of Lijun. “If you don’t mind, we’ll come back to watch the final match. Lijun will want to see Hauteclere win.”
Andrew grinned. “Sure. See you later.” He waited for Jeffrey to hurry to his pokegirl’s side before turning to Shamira. “The Warcat is going to take the title.”
She blinked. “You’re not confident in Claire?”
He shook his head. “The three contestants that are left are the Warcat and two Armsmistresses. Armsmistresses can’t fight feline pokegirls. It’s hardwired into them.”
Shamira nodded. “I see. So we’re about to see a Warcat sweep the field.” She replied as the mentioned Warcat and other Armsmistress took to the ring.
The referee dropped his flag and Andrew sighed. “Yep. Which is too bad, really. I was looking forward to a good-“ He was cut off when the Armsmistress instantly smashed her knee into the Warcats stomach and began raining blows on her with her sword. “What the fuck!?!”
The crowd roared at the one-sided fight taking an unexpected turn as Selina the Warcat was sent flying by the Armsmistress Aude. “Sir, you said the opposite would happen.”
Andrew stared agape. “It should have. It really should have.”
The one sided fight continued for another minute, Selina managing to land a few blows but was unable to take the initiative against the faster Aude. Jeffrey returned with Lijun in tow just before Aude put in her final blow, knocking the Warcat out. “What did I miss?”
Andrew just pointed at the prostrate Warcat. “An Armsmistress attacked a feline.”
Jeffrey frowned. “And here I thought that was impossible. Well, I guess that means we’ll have an Armsmistress final.”
Lijun bowed to Andrew. “It was an honor to fight your pokegirl, sir. Master Jeffrey tells me I forced her to use her wings, something she does not usually do?”
Andrew nodded. “Your Li Quan was devastating her. She needed a way to retake the offensive, and the element of surprise worked.”
The Grand Mistress’ face broke into a grin. “You recognized my art, sir? Then you must be an artist yourself!”
Andrew smiled. “Yes, I practice a hybrid art, but you would recognize it either as Quán Fa, or Kempo.”
Lijun clapped excitedly. “Can you demonstrate something for me? Pleasee?”
Andrew blushed and ducked his head. “I’m not much of an exhibitionist, to be honest, but if you’re familiar with the basic art of Kempo I would be willing to have a small riposte.”
Lijun nodded eagerly. “I would enjoy that. Please, Master?” She implored Jeffrey.
He laughed and nodded. “Go for it. I think we’ve got some time before Hauteclere and Aude face off.”
Andrew blew some air through his nose and pulled of his t-shirt and shorts so he was clad only in the stretching training outfit. “Alright. I suppose I’ll start with a few Kata, and afterwards I’ll do a defensive maneuver or two.” He said, settling into a stance and motioning Lijun forward. “Throw a gentle punch into my sternum and we can begin.”
Lijun moved into him and threw a fist, watching with interest when he stepped back and trapped her arm before stepping inside her guard and tapping her ribs lightly, continuing through and delivering a hook kick to her chest. She started to comment on the form but yelped as he suddenly sped up and swept her legs out from underneath her, twisting her around so she landed on her back with an audible thud and her arm was wrenched from his grasp. She got up, rubbing her tailbone. “It’s more complex than I imagined.”
Andrew returned to his neutral position. “That was only a medium leveled maneuver, and would have broken your arm. Some higher ranked maneuvers will leave an opponent a trembling heap.”
Lijun cocked an eyebrow and moved into him again, speeding up slightly. “Don’t hold back. Show me something big.”
Andrew grinned but obliged, foregoing the trap and bowling straight into the oncoming Grand Mistress with a shout, hammering her sternum with both hands before continuing through and hooking her legs with his own, throwing her backwards as he planted his remaining leg and drove her to the ground. He quickly followed up with a handful of strikes to her ribs and head before stepping away and offering her his hand, which she took ruefully. “It works well.”
Andrew chuckled. “It is a lot of fun to watch two practitioners run through two complementary forms. It’s like a scripted battle sequence.”
She cocked her head. “Can you show me?”
Andrew sighed. “I’m not two people, so no. I could show you one side, then the other, but it’s not the same.”
Lijun frowned. “Try running through one side, and I’ll match it.”
Andrew thought for a moment before shrugging. “Alright.” He stood tall and breathed deeply, bowed, and began with a strike and block, moving fluidly through the steps. From there he whirled, driving kicks and punches into an imaginary partner, while also blocking the imaginary strikes. As he turned into the second half of the form, he was surprised to find Lijun waiting for him, the Grand Mistress blocking his strikes and allowing him to continue the flow until he finished, straightening and bowing to her.
She bowed back and began moving opposite to what he had began with. “Yes?”
He nodded and they traded blows, moving through Andrew’s form. As they finished a round of applause erupted around them and Andrew blinked, surprised to see the crowd had formed watching them instead of the ring. “We had an audience.”
Lijun grinned and gave him a final bow before moving back to Jeffrey’s side. “It is an interesting art. Am I correct in assuming it is defensive?”
Andrew chuckled. “Well considering you had to punch in for me to demonstrate technique, that’s a safe bet.” He wiped his face and pulled his clothes back on. “I’m surprised you picked it up so quickly.”
Jeffrey shrugged. “She learns martial arts quite easily because of her breed. Thank you for giving her something new to study.”
Andrew made to respond but was interrupted by the booming voice of the referee. “And now, the fight you’ve all been waiting for! Armsmistress Hauteclere versus Armsmistress Aude! They each handily won their semifinal fights, and our panel of judges has ruled that weapons will be allowed! You’re not going to want to miss this!”
Andrew chuckled and nodded at the ring. “That’s my cue.”
They pushed back through the crowd and had settled back in their old spot when a voice came through Andrew’s earpiece. “Sir, I have finished running the survey you requested. The results are available for viewing.”
Andrew nodded slightly. “Thank you, Cortney. Tell me, can you give me a history on the Armsmistress Claire is facing?”
“Give me eyes on and I will see what I can do.”
Andrew unholstered his pokedex and pointed the camera at the arena. “Is that good enough?”
“Yes sir. Target is identified as Aude, an Armsmistress belonging to Tamer Pip. His harem consists of Aude, a Boobgong, and a Shadowcat. Would you like their names?”
Andrew shook his head. “No. Are there records on what Aude evolved from?”
“There are no records on evolutions, but Pip was registered in a battle slightly over a month ago and used an Amazon named Aude. It is highly likely they are the same pokegirl.”
Andrew smirked. “Thank you, Cortney. I will notify you if I need anything.”
Jeffrey looked at him strangely. “Who were you talking to?”
Andrew tapped his ear. “Microphone. I like to be able to communicate with my harem.”
Jeffrey glanced at Shamira, who was scanning the crowd. “Who are you?”
Andrew chuckled. “Just a bit of a veteran Tamer who would like to stay alive.”
They returned their attention to the arena as the referee began the fight. Claire and Aude stood apart from each other, sizing each other up. “My money’s on Hauteclere.” Lijun piped up.
Andrew grinned. “Thanks for the vote of confidence, but Aude decimated her opponent. And she was a Warcat. I think they’re pretty evenly matched, but only if Claire uses all of her abilities and doesn’t hold back.”
Shamira nodded. “She has the advantage in some aspects, but I believe Aude is the stronger pokegirl. And though I wish for her to win, a defeat here may be the outcome.”
Aude took the initiative, jumping forward and clashing swords with Claire, who pushed back and traded blows for a few seconds before backing away. They paused for a moment before Claire attacked, her sword seeking a joint in Aude’s armor, relying on her own platemail to protect her. Aude twisted out of the way and smacked Claire’s shoulder, Andrew wincing as the phantom pain jabbed at his own. “That was a solid blow. That arm’s down for a few seconds.”
Claire knew it and quickly backpedaled, dropping into a defensive stance as she attempted to regain full mobility, but Aude pressed her advantage, scoring several solid hits. Claire cried out, stumbling backwards and Aude swooped in for the kill. Andrew hissed. “What’s she doing? She should be able to use her arm now!” He suddenly laughed when Claire’s supposedly disabled arm whipped around and grabbed Aude’s sword blade. “Never mind!”
Claire’s grin could have been visible through her helmet as she threw Aude’s sword arm out of the way and jabbed forward, her own sword suddenly crackling with a Thunderbolt that arced across Aude’s armor, the other Armsmistress screaming and falling backwards away from the attack. Claire jumped forward and renewed her assault, but was blocked as Aude regained her balance. The two combatants locked swords for a second, Aude breathing heavily, and began to separate when a yell came from the referee. “Hold! Hold, hold! Armsmistress Claire is disqualified!” He ran forward and raised Aude’s arm. “The rules stated that no enchanted weapons were to be used! Armsmistress Aude is the victor!”
Andrew grit his teeth but Claire beat him. “I have used no enchanted weapon!” She cried, ripping off her helmet and allowing her hair to flow down her back. “I have used nothing but my own techniques!” She continued, her wings flaring to life and another Thunderbolt crackling in her hand.
The referee glanced at her and seemed to realize what had happened. “Uh, the judges have ruled your disqualification. There is not an appeal-“
Claire spat at his feet and strode to where Andrew stood, vaulting over the side. “Then let it be known that this competition is naught but a charade. I fought with my own power, but my opponent was handed victory as she faced defeat.”
The referee began stuttering, Aude chuckling darkly. “I agree fully. This contest is undecided.” She called after Claire. “I challenge you once more!”
Claire turned back to her. “One day when we may once again meet on an equal field, perhaps. I look forward to it.”
Andrew clapped her on the back and looked to Lijun for her opinion, but she and Jeffrey were nowhere to be seen. “Your first opponent was here a moment ago, but they seem to have left at the disappointing outcome.”
Claire strode angrily in front of him. “I am surprised I was allowed to come as far as I did. As soon as it was released to the ‘judges’ that I was from Blue, I could tell that my scores were dropping.”
Andrew sighed. “That’s too bad. But I think you would have lost anyways. Aude was a bit stronger than you.”
Claire cracked a grin. “I am aware of that. That is why I declined her challenge and instead postponed it to a later date, one where I would be the stronger.”
Andrew blinked. “I just noticed that you talk differently when you’re angry. It’s more… Regal.”
“I… Oh.” She said in surprise. “I do.”
Shamira laughed. “She is your Queen, is she not? She speaks to her position!”
They shared a laugh that was cut off by a sudden warning in their ears. “Sir. The comnet has registered with multiple uses of ‘Ranger’ and ‘Soldier’.”
Andrew swore and began picking up his pace. “What’s going on?”
“Someone is asking another man if ‘Andrew Ranger’ is the one designated as ‘Soldier’. I am in the process of tracing the callers now.”
Andrew nodded. “Hook me through to all my harem frequencies.” He waited for a second for the burst of static that signified Cortney completing his request. “This is Andrew. Pack up the tent and prepare for immediate evac. Lyn, meet up with me. NOW.”
They weaved through the buildings when Grace began speaking. “I am on a roof near the camp site. There is directional movement in the crowds near the show arenas.”
Lyn came running up to Andrew as they reached the tent, which was nearly disassembled thanks to Aella and Adria. “What’s going on?”
Andrew knelt down and helped them finish with the tent, quickly digitizing it into a pokepack. “Someone is talking about me. Using Sanctuary’s lingo.”
She nodded. “Teleport?”
“Teleport. Grace, what do you see?”
“One of the main show arenas has been cleared. The other two are still running. Someone is pushing through the crowds towards us.”
Andrew winced. “Get down from there. Everyone’s going up and we are leaving.”
He began recalling members as Grace dropped to the ground next to him. “Lyn, let’s go!”
She grabbed his arm as he recalled Grace and closed her eyes. Andrew stood for a few moments, but nothing happened.
Her eyes snapped open. “There’s a block up. I can’t pierce it.”
Andrew cursed and released Shamira, Grace, and Claire. “You’re relieved, Lyn. Ladies, we seem to have had a teleport block erected. Which means the three of you are going to get us out,” He grinned. “By force.”
Shamira growled and began bulking up. “If they are blocking us form leaving, they mean to fight us.”
Andrew nodded. “We’re moving. South. GO.”
They sprinted away from the main arena, Cortney beginning to speak. “I have identified both callers. One is known as ‘Undertaker’ and the other is the man you were speaking to at the Arena. He is Jeffrey Banks, S-Class Combat Tamer.”
Andrew groaned. “I was speaking to an S-Class the whole time. No fucking wonder he was so interested in me.” They skidded to a halt as Lijun stepped around a corner ahead of them. “Speak of the devil.”
The Grand Mistress looked at them with a glint in her eye. “Where do you think you’re going?”
Shamira stepped in front of them, the Goldina shifting fully to her beast form. “Out of our way.”
Lijun shook her head. “I’m sorry, but I can’t do that. Undertaker is very interested in meeting your Tamer.”
Andrew glanced around, but they were sandwiched in the alleyway. “I have no intentions of becoming a puppet, Lijun. When you wake up, tell your master and Undertaker the same.” He nodded and Shamira blitzed forward, smashing the surprised Grand Mistress through a wall. “Move!”
Shamira left the dazed Lijun where she lay and ran after them. “Sir. The comnet is extremely active. I have multiple hostiles in front of you. I suggest evasive-“ She paused. “Contacts are shifting rapidly, I repeat, shifting rapidly! Teleports incoming!”
Andrew looked around wildly before pointing straight up. “Claire, in the air. Drop me on the roof. Grace, Mira, follow!”
Claire grabbed him and shot upwards, depositing him on a rooftop before winging higher. Behind him grace vaulted over the edge, closely followed by Shamira. “I’m not even going to ask the property damage right now. Claire, status?”
She winged by. “The alleys are full. We barely avoided a pincer. If we can get to the outskirts there doesn’t seem to be much activity.” She ducked. “Shit, there was someone on the roof a second ago. I saw wings and then they dropped below the roofline.”
Andrew nodded and began jogging. “Then let’s move.”
They ran in silence for a minute before Cortney broke in. “They’ve lost you, somehow. I think they’re confused how you disappeared with the teleport block in place.”
Andrew nodded. “Good. We’re almost out. Claire, see anybody?”
Claire suddenly dropped to the roof. “There’s someone waiting in the field outside the city. I think he saw me.”
Andrew started to ask who it was when a booming voice resonated around them. “Mr. Ranger! I applaud your action, and it speaks highly of your training, but I am not here as an enemy. I do not hold the same orders as I did only a short time ago.”
Andrew lay flat. “Responding would give away our position. Don’t take the bait.”
They stayed silently for a few seconds before the voice returned. “I understand your caution. I did, actually, attempt to apprehend you. I will lower the teleport block and call off my men, if you agree to speak with me.”
“Cortney, any traffic?”
The Upgrade’s voice was tinged with worry. “There is nothing. But the man in front of you is holding a pokedex registered to Undertaker.”
Andrew thought for a few seconds. “Drop a message onto his pokedex that I agree to a meeting, but will not reveal myself until his men are called off.”
“Message sent.” She paused for a few moments. “Traffic is back. All responding S-Class tamers are being instructed to return to their normal activities.”
Andrew glanced around but nodded and slowly rose. “I guess we’re going to have a talk, then.”
They inched to the edge of the roof and peeked over. Undertaker was standing alone in front of them, and raised his arm as he saw them. “Ah, so that’s how you avoided the alley trap. Will you come down?”
Andrew shrugged and jumped off the roof, Claire catching him in midair and lowering him to the ground. “You will understand when I don’t dismiss my harem.” He said as Grace and Shamira landed heavily behind him.
Undertaker nodded. “That is fine. Tell me, who are you?”
Andrew crossed his arms. “Andrew Ranger. Blue Tamer, working along the normal route of gyms and championships. A veteran tamer who is quite set in my harem.”
Undertaker’s mouth twitched into a smile. “Yes, that is what most would see when they read your profile. But why would it say you are a veteran tamer, one who has more than ten years of experience, when the profile, and in fact, Andrew Ranger himself, were only created last month?” He stepped forward. “When I see that, I immediately think of a criminal of some sort. But the other part of me, the one that is never revealed to the public, tells me something different is at work.” He crossed his arms. “Who are you?”
Andrew frowned. “You would not recognize my name, so it is unimportant. I am Andrew Ranger.”
“Then tell me, Andrew Ranger. Why do you exist?” Undertaker’s gaze focused on Andrew’s face. “And why should I not kill you, here and now?”
Andrew smirked. “Because she wouldn’t be happy if you did.” He replied, waving lazily at the figure that had just appeared behind Undertaker. “Remember that my goodwill will only go so far, Ms. McMahon.”
Undertaker flinched when Stephanie laid her hand on his arm. “Calm yourself, Mark. You know we no longer seek humans of Ranger’s… Caliber.” She turned her gaze to Andrew. “Which begs the question. Where did you come from, Author?”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Andrew Ranger
Age: 27
Licenses:
Tamer: Y
Master Tamer: N
Researcher: N
Watcher: N
Breeder: N
Badges:
England; Coventry, Shrewsbury
Wales;
Ireland;
Scotland;
Active Harem:
Hauteclere – Armsmistress, Level 39 (Alpha)
Grace – Mini-Top, Level 37
Lyn – Enchantress, Level 36
Aella – Naga, Level 35
Adria – Groaning, Level 35
Shamira – Goldina, Level 41
Cortney – Upgrade VideoGirl