M15 p2 - Main Path

Mission 15 - Main Path
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M15 - Part 2	
 Meanwhile... His Future, Her Past
Main Path Epilogue	
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For once, the sun was not beating down on the weary travelers from Aether as they marched across the desert. Thick bands of clouds had moved to obscure the celestial orb, providing much-needed respite from the overbearing rays (though the heat remained) and leaving those who had accompanied the king thankful for the shade. Cecil continually spurred them onward with a firm tone, occasionally retrieving water for others from the single wagon they’d brought with them, the rest having been left behind in Herep-inet. But they were making good time… despite Husani’s best efforts.
At the front of the group, Alaric tried not to lose his patience as he rode alongside Husani. Thus far, the Krokorok had deflected any and all questions to elaborate on the rebels or his involvement. He insisted that, were a merchant like himself in the know of such things, he knew better than to have a loose tongue in the open, because you never know who was listening in the desert.
Between their conversational dodges, the croc had taken the time to point out the scenery, which had transformed from mostly sand to rocky valleys. Alaric found himself scowling, taking great annoyance that this was being treated more as a sightseeing tour, rather than the quest it was to unravel his visions. Matteo, who sat not far off on the seat of the wagon, kept a weather eye out on the horizon, ears occasionally swiveling towards Husani’s droning before resuming his watch. Midway through another of his defelections, Husani suddenly found himself interrupted by the attentive Pikachu.''
: That’s a mountain up ahead, isn’t it?
: Wait, my vision showed the library buried in sand, not rock-
: There’s a whole chain of mountains, but don't worry about missing sand between your toes or- well-
He gestured at Alaric emphatically, receiving only an exasperated stare in reply.
: Anyway, even after we cross the rocky parts, there will be plenty of desert for us to travel.
: As long as we won't be out in the open when this sandstorm hits. We’d best enter the wadi soon and find some shelter.
: Huh, you know your stuff… (He lifts a finger towards the sky, as if measuring the wind.) Hmm, we might have to pick up the pace, actually; I got so distracted with the scenery that I think we won't outpace this storm to the library. No worries though, I know a large system that should shield us.
: Do we have to go through this “wadi” to get to the library? 
: I wouldn’t be taking you to it if that wasn’t the case. 
: The jury is still out on that one. I doubt you, if you are so experienced in traversing the desert, would have miscalculated the sandstorm.
: (shrugging) Fair enough. After all, trust is in short supply these days, what with all the murdering.
: By the rebels?
: By some rebels.
: Are you referring to the murders befalling the pharaoh’s family, or more recent killings?
: Both, I imagine.
: Wait, what happened to Sa’Perah Ah’s family?
: Do you truly not know?
: I’m sorry to say that I never took the time to research the pharaoh’s past and talking about trauma doesn’t exactly come up naturally in conversation, nor does it sit well with me.
: You sure you’re our allies?
: On most days…
: Well, come meet your "allies" here, quickly now.
The Krokorok pointed out a cave entrance, hidden unless you look from a specific angle. Everyone approached to go inside - but Cecil rushed forward and held out a paw to keep the others back.
: Whose allies, Husani?
: Cecil?
: Yours - unless you want to stand here and be hit by that front over there? 
: Cecil, what are you sensing?
: It's faint, but I sense the aura of others deeper into this passage. It opens up and there's a settlement with homes carved into the rock.
: Explain yourself, Husani! Are you leading us into a trap? 
: A trap? Even if I did, you really don't have a choice. But consider that if I wanted you dead, it would have been much easier to not provide you with shelter and just led you into the desert and abandoned you to deal with this storm and all the other dangers that Khetmaat's terrain has to offer.
As if to prove his point, the storm's wind started to hit them and their ability to see decreased by the tense seconds that tick by.
: Everyone, get inside.
 & : What?
: There is no choice. I assume we are about to meet with these rebels, so let's hope it's indeed the "right" group of them. 
: Very well, hurry everyone! Cecil, make sure nobody is left behind then report to me; I want to know if there is a rebel movement once inside.
Everyone filled into the opening; it took some effort to get the cart inside, in fact one wheel popped off and disappeared before anyone could make a grab for it. But they succeeded and spread out in various positions, shaking off sand and blinking their stinging eyes as they caught their breath.
: Now you understand why the rebels wear masks-
: You’d better explain yourself quickly-
: For the record, I didn't lie, I told you I'd take you to Ptolemy-
: The rebel leader himself, or is this just a "place" named after him?
: What, we’re meeting the rebel leader?
: Perhaps. I am uncertain if he could still have been alive, so it could have just been the rebels named their base after it. That is why I said nothing back at the-
: Someone is approaching-
: Your leader?! 
: He's not my leader just because I happen to do business with them. I am a merchant, after all.
: They are very small- a Larvitar, I think it's a chi-
: Husani, how did it go with the strangers? Did you bring the things Dad asked for…?
The small ‘mon’s voice faded as its owner appeared from out of the shadowy cave’s depths. True to Cecil’s prediction, it was a Larvitar, clad in the rebel garb the Aetherians had seen before, but with extra trimming at the edges and the youngster’s jaw dropped at the sight of the crowd filling up the cave’s entrance.
: Oh! Oh no, I don't think Dad asked for them, Husani?
: Not my usual wares, eh Seb? Now you better go tell Ptolemy.
: So he is still alive, unbelievable…
: Of course, Dad's the strongest! I bet he could crumble this whole mountain if he wanted to! 
: Fantastic! Now go get him please.
The small Larvitar ran off to do just that, a small echo of his voice shouting at them as he went, ensuring that his father really could level the "whole" mountain.
: The rebel leader's son? He's, um - quite cheerful…
: Yeah, real chip off the ol’ block... Now look, as I said, this is a needed stop. I can't just take you to the library - but say Ptolemy agrees to it, well that's another story.
: Why would you need the rebel leader's permission if you are not part of this group?
: Indeed.
: I don't need his permission, but frankly I can't even get you to the place where I found those rogues right now without his help. So you need him to help me and he could use your help… See where we are getting with this? 
: We won't help these rebels take power or kill anyone-
: Well, I think he only needs you to fix some infrastructure, really. Ya know, with a lot of his rebels having joined the Claws of Ammut, he's a bit short on hands- 
: And which group would be the one who killed the pharaoh's family?
: (sighing) Very well, I suppose we have time to discuss it while we wait for Ptolemy… In truth, the rebellions in Khetmaat have been a common occurrence for well over thirty years, since Sa’Perah Ah was young. At that time, the rebels fought against her father, Akhen-Aton.
: What had he done?
: Besides join a war we had nothing to do with and be on the wrong side at that?
: How about then punishing his own people for crimes they didn't commit for three long years, or prosecuting those who wished to help those people? The list of his foul deeds is quite long.
: Wait, which war?
: Pausanius must have told you about the War of Will and Fire? Voluntas' attack on Gailamir which backfired when they received aid from other nations, which forced Artiphron and Khetmaat to intervene on Voluntas' behalf to honor the old trinity accord between the three nations that housed the trials of Uxie, Azelf and Mesprit. Gailamir ended up losing the war because of Khetmaat in particular. 
: And their people took revenge by assassinating the pharaoh's wife and two sons.
: … I've heard about it from other sources as well and dealt with the "consequences" of this conflict… But I don't completely understand how it's related. If anything, I'd expect most hate to fall to Voluntas-
: Ever heard of the slaughter at the Vermillion Grasp? The local legend says the desert buried so many Gailamiran soldiers that it turned the sand red-
: You shouldn't be telling ghost’ stories, Husani.
The whispered words sounding suddenly in their midst made everyone jump (except for Husani who merely looked bemused). They don’t have to look far for the owner of the voice as the Yamask floated into view from the nearby shadows, clutching at her mask tightly.
: What are you doing here?! Have you been in on this all along?
: My apologies, I didn't notice her approach…
: It was my idea to send you to Ptolemy, he needs more men to accomplish his task. Had he attempted it with the few he has left, he would have surely perished - I could not allow this to happen for Sa'Perah's sake.
: I don't understand, how it could be for her sake? If it was really for a good cause, why not just tell us what’s happening?
: I could not risk you telling anyone that could have let the enemy know. I also wished to see if you were strong enough and to be trusted. I was to meet with Husani and Ptolemy's men in Herep-inet, along with any trustworthy Khetmaat guards who were willing to help the town - therefore not be part of the rebels that occupied it.
: So it was a test - but why us?
: When Sa'Perah received a letter about your arrival, I couldn’t believe my luck. I was having trouble finding anyone willing to help, be it because they were loyal to the enemy or because they were too loyal to go without Sa’Perah's orders. But I knew if I told you of Husani and the library, that if you succeeded in defending the village, you'd follow him here.
: You hoped Husani would understand we were the people you sent and that would lead us here in order to make sure we agreed to help, or else confine us here if we refused, correct?
: Yes - however I was sure there would be no need for the latter. Once you were here, neither you nor Ptolemy could refuse to work together, because you both have something the other needs.
: I admit, I was very confused when you didn't show but some outsiders did, I couldn’t imagine you chose them… then when Hager showed up while he was supposed to be at Wasdj-
: What do you mean? Why was Hager there? (glancing around the rest of the crowd)… Wait, where are the rest of the Aetherians, surely they did not perish-?
: My captain and his warriors joined this Hager to stop an assassination attempt on Sa'Perah-
: What? No, that's impossible! Why would they speed up their plans- I have to go warn Sa'Perah!
: Like she'd believe you; we'll have to trust Hager- 
: It's possible that our arrival didn't seem like an opportunity just for you. Perhaps this enemy thought we'd make a good scapegoat to blame the assassination on.
: Without your warriors here to help Ptolemy and him going after her life now- I have to get Ptolemy-
: Seb's already getting him- aaand she's gone…
A silence fell over the room as the ghost vanished from sight, broken quickly by Alaric.
: So… the Gailamir killed Sa'Perah's siblings and mother as revenge, but then why did the pharaoh turn against his own people? I still don't understand.
: (under his breath) We’re back on this, huh? 
: The pharaoh thought his own people might have had a hand in hiding or even helping the culprits. The original rebel group formed around people who tried to help the people with provisions or freeing them from captivity and, of course, trying to find the culprits themselves-
: Oh right, yes, that’s correct. But then the pharaoh’s council said general Nakht-pa-Aten had determined from interrogating Gailamiran spies that one of the culprits was one of the other generals, a Tyranitar-
: I’m sorry to interrupt, but in fact a Tyranitar is heading our way right now. Jendayi is with them, as well as a very small Pokémon-
: Wait, is Ptolemy-?
: No wait, hold up, you are misunderstanding-
Before Husani could finish, a Tyranitar entered the cavern, approaching from the same direction as his son had come not long ago. He held a torch in one of his massive claws, leaving the other to hover over the hilt of a sword at his hip - though the weapon seemed hardly necessary, due to his bulky and muscular stature. His rebel garb was more decorated than his son’s, gilded edges of the darker robe glinting in the torchlight… but it was his eyes, focused to a razor’s edge, that held most of the room’s attention. He glared first at Husani before his gaze landed on Alaric, causing the snake to give an involuntary shiver.
: That general was Onouphrios, my father. Now that Jendayi has made me aware of your warriors working with Hager, it seems I have little choice if you are already this involved.
: Oh good, I thought you might have thrown us out in the sandstorm-
: I might still throw you out. What were you thinking, just bringing outsiders here? You could have destroyed everything we worked for-
: (moving out from behind Ptolemy) You need more people, Ptolemy. Husani was only doing what I asked of him, we didn’t mean to go behind your back-
: But you did and you endangered all of us because of it.
: Now wait just a minute - why should we follow you into the depth of your base? How could we trust you do not mean the pharaoh harm, if you are the son of a conspirator that killed her fa-?
: My father was framed. When the council and General Nakht-pa-Aten found out my father was in charge of the rebellion-
: So he did betray his king-
: You should hold your tongue, snake. Remember you are at my mercy. 
: To my understanding, you don’t have the numbers to make these threats - so maybe you should start explaining before we go anywhere.
: Oh radiant one, not this again-
: I change my mind, I’ll take my chances with the sandstorm.
A heavy silence filled the area as Alaric and Ptolemy stared-off, both of their eyes slitted and judgmental. For a moment, no one moved: Matteo and Husani appeared to be battling the urge to throw their hands in the air and Cecil was on high alert as he scanned the newcomers to try and find the ‘very small Pokémon’ he’d sensed earlier, to no avail (much to his surprise, as he still felt their presence). It was Jendayi who finally snapped the tension, tugging at Ptolemy’s garments until he begrudgingly looked down at her troubled face.
: Ptolemy, please, you NEED them, you know you do.
: …
: My father and Akhen-Aton were sworn brothers; he had recently proven his loyalty at the frontal assault to protect the Voluntas capital, nearly falling in protecting the pharaoh’s life. He would have never betrayed his friend, but his honor would not permit to stand by idly as the pharaoh destroyed everything they were sworn to protect.
: (interrupting) See Alaric, even Akhen-Aton didn’t believe Onouphrios betrayed him - that’s why I told you to let me finish talking first.
: Before we continue, can we please go deeper into the base now? I don’t like being so close to the sandstorm…
: I can understand why. Something feels… wrong outside…
: I wondered why you were so quiet. What is it you see?
: I thought I was imagining it. There are traces of energy in there, I’m not so sure it’s a natural storm…
: What? Why did you come here to Khetmaat? (gesturing to Husani and Jendayi) How did these two enlist your help?
: In the interest of avoiding another confrontation, I shall be transparent. We came in search of the Library of Thales. Jendayi told us Husani knew the way there, but we had to free the village of Herep-inet before-
: So either someone overheard your purpose, or he took notice that you captured one of the villages. Either way, you could have led them straight to us-
: Who?
: Husani, seal the entrance, hurry.
Husani squinted outside into the encroaching storm, then used Stone Edge to do just that, blocking the entrance with large boulders pulled from the ground. Meanwhile, the Tyranitar turned and stalked his way back into the passage, not seemingly caring if the others followed. But Alaric did, trying to catch up with him by tapping a vine roughly against his back.
: Wait just a minute-
: Listen, he might be looking for you, we have to get deeper inside. Within this weather, we cannot see who's out there and he can’t find us before we are ready- 
: Who? Who could be out there in that?
Ptolemy doesn’t pause in his stride as he peered over his shoulder, torchlight reflected as a death shroud against his face.
: The damned.
Now with their exit sealed and the foreboding words from the leader of the rebellion leaving Alaric’s company less than eager to do something about that, they started to follow the ‘mon deeper into his stronghold. Cecil was still on high alert - where was this mysterious ‘very small ‘mon’ and what forces blocked his sight?; Jendayi grasped at her mask, the edges practically breaking in her ghostly grasp; and Husani and Matteo both looked uncomfortable as they marched on either side of Alaric, who was currently squinting so hard at Ptolemy’s back, it was as if the serpent were trying to set the ‘mon ablaze. 
However, the snake’s mood was momentarily lifted as they emerged from the narrow tunnels into a large inner cavity of the mountain, its vaulted walls rising high into a domed and craggy ceiling. Ptolemy handed his torch to a nearby Heliolisk before moving onward, cutting a quick path through the base towards a large building that had been carved from the rock, its entrance marked by a colorful curtain. They passed a table covered in weapons where a Gligar and Sandaconda worked on repairing them; a longer table holding food, currently being eaten by a Cufant, Graveler, Sandslash, and Probopass; and the entrances to several homes dug into the mountain, each holding families who peered out at the newcomers with confusion.
Alaric spotted a particularly curious Drillbur, who was hurriedly pulled back into the house by their parents. He turned towards Ptolemy and cleared his throat to gain the larger ‘mon’s attention.''
: You have children here other than your own?
As if summoned, the Larvitar from before popped out of a house and made his way towards them, jogging right up to Alaric without fear.
: Of course! We also have some water and food if your people need it.
: Thank you–... Seb, was it? I’m sure they would appreciate it. Cecil, why don't you go with them? 
The Lucario gave a nod and followed the enthusiastic Larvitar towards a Hippowdon who bore packs of food along their back, the rest of the Aetherians following suit. Alaric watched them go with some trepidation, which was only made worse as Husani loudly hummed before turning to follow them.
: I’ll go lend a hand too, if you don’t need me, Ptolemy-
: The others can handle it. I need to know if you got what I asked for.
: Of course, do I ever not deliver?
: Hmm… Then come, in here.
Ptolemy continued onward through the camp towards the large building, finally reaching the curtain and pulling it aside. Husani and Jendayi went in without delay while Alaric and Matteo approached more cautiously: but the concern was unneeded, as the interior is simply a strategy room, containing a table in the center holding a large map of Khetmaat. More torches set in sconces on the walls lit up the room and a ladder leaned up against the back wall of the cavern, leading upwards to an apparent second floor.
Ptolemy waited until everyone had settled into the room before entering himself, letting the curtain swing back into place. He walked up to the table and leaned against it heavily, his eyes momentarily surveying the map’s contents - squiggling lines dashing across the sands, circles drawn around dots marking towns and oases, Khetmaatian words written in hasty margins - before looking back up to Alaric.''
: So, if I understand it, Jendayi proposes a trade: you help my people defeat our foe and you get access to the library.
: You should be helping me get to the library regardless. This isn’t just for personal gain, it’s important for all of Avalon-
: I’ve heard of your “visions” from Jendayi and I'd have dismissed it instantly, were it not for our own problem to be equally hard to believe. 
: To have to barter away our nation’s treasures like this is absolute sacrilege… but it seems your arrival has shortened our already small window. If Hager’s intel was correct, you’ve caused a change in the enemy’s plans and it’s important we turn this to our advantage.
: So, you’ll agree to take us to the library, if we help with your problem?
Ptolemy shot Jendayi a look.
: I’ve been left with no alternative. However, I worry for Hager- he’s been in deep cover and it’s been long since we’ve last had contact.
: I didn’t dare tell him of what we learned in his absence in the open like that; I wasn’t too sure about how to handle these outsiders either.
: I understand, Husani. However, Hager still operates under the assumption we don’t know our true enemy, while thanks to Jendayi and Paki, we do.
: Hold on, I still need you to answer some more of my questions.
: Do you need to know my entire life story in order to help?
: Depending on what it entails and me risking Aether’s relations with Khetmaat’s ruler by even listening to you, not to mention their lives- yes, perhaps I do. At the very least, I want to know why you continued to lead the rebellion after your father.
: Because the new pharaoh, Nakht-pa-Aten, Sa’Perah’s husband, traded our people's lives for his obsession with wealth and power. The people in eastern Khetmaat were starved so the west flourished, our people taken from their homes and sold as slaves.
: I had reason enough to hate the ‘mon without it, but bringing him to justice for his deeds against our people and freeing us was a cause that people could rally behind.
: It took years, but even after his death, his tendrils of filth still lingered. Sa'Perah might have taken control and tried to restore Khetmaat to how it was prior to his influence, but it runs too deep. 
: Many of the rebels didn't take so kindly to Ptolemy saying they had to settle with Sa'Perah as ruler. Didn't believe she had no hand in it; most wanted her dead.
: I was limited in my actions, being accused of killing the pharaoh and of having made an attempt on Sa'Perah's life. So I was forced to hide.
: I do find it odd that the rebel leader responsible for the death of Sa’Perah Ah’s husband and attempted to take her own life as well would then turn around to support her.
: That isn’t what happened. Though I wish I could have been the one to snap the neck of that disgusting bug, no royal blood coats my hands.
: So the death of the pharaoh’s mother, father, brothers, and husband are not the fault of the rebels in any capacity?
: No, my father had no hand in any of it, nor did I. He and I were framed.
: I have trouble believing your story, as we fought a bunch of rebels this afternoon and my captain is allegedly stopping even more from killing the pharaoh as we speak.
: As we said, repeatedly now, they are not our people. Not any more. We used to be one group but-
: Their ways do not align with our own. Our forces started to divide after my position changed on Sa'Perah-
: Who was married to the pharaoh, so did that position change before or after you killed her husband? Even if this Nakht-pa-Aten is as horrible a leader as you say, does that excuse your motivations? Were you not planning to take his place?
Ptolemy’s claws curled into fists and his teeth grit into an angry scowl: but he said nothing, instead glaring hotly at the map. Alaric, fed up with the lack of response, shouted the question he has wanted answered this entire conversation:
: Who then killed Sa’Perah Ah’s husband?! If not you, who had the position and motivation to do so?!
: I did.
: What??!
Ptolemy sighed, shoulders loosening and fists uncurling as the confession took root in everyone’s minds. He lifted his head, looking with everyone else towards the Yamask, now confidently floating close to the table, her gaze fixated on the dot marking the palace on the map.
: I killed that vile man before he could kill my pharaoh. I then sunk my blade through the tender flesh of his Araquanid concubine that conspired with him to replace my master, as she came upon me in rage and tried to drown me in her bubble. Though she failed in that method, she too dealt me a lethal blow. In the struggle, I fell from the balcony and cracked my skull upon the rocks in the river; perhaps the fall killed me, perhaps I bled to death, or perhaps I drowned in the river. 
: The only thing I regret is not being able to take responsibility for the crime so that my pharaoh may have been with one who could have cared for her and not one who used her only as a means to an end - who had the blood of her father on his hands and had sold out her other kin to be killed.
: Hold on, slow down, I think we are all confused and a little stunned. 
: Simply put, in life Jendayi was Sa'Perah's handmaiden, a Meowth. One night when I infiltrated the palace, she confronted me; she knew who I was and what I came to do. She too wanted Nakht-pa-Aten dead but helped me realize Sa'Perah Ah wasn't involved in his deeds; in fact, she suspected her husband wanted her dead. We decided to work together- I would protect Sa'Perah and she wouldn't reveal my identity until we found the opportunity to kill Nakht-pa-Aten.
: So, Nakht-pa-Aten is responsible for all these assassinations?
: That's what my father believed. I know for certain he and Sa'Perah's father were killed by him and his council.
: …You make him out to be a true villain. But since he's dead, it would also be easy to use him as a scapegoat.
: I don't think so. The actions of Nakht-pa-Aten towards his own people are well known, Alaric. I think a man like that could be very capable of what he's accused of.
: Though I certainly did not expect Ptolemy to not be the one to have killed him…
: If you doubt the story, you just have to meet him yourself - you will no longer have doubts after.
The new voice chimed in from the direction of the table. Alaric and the others peered around in confusion, before noticing the very small, blue-faced beetle crawling around the edge of the map. Turning to lie flat on their back, the bronze bug blinked somewhat sleepily at them, their lower-lip quivering in an effort to be noticeable; despite being such an opulent color, their diminutive size clearly meant that they were easily missable.
: (under his breath) So you were the one causing Cecil such problems…
: Ah, right, introductions - this is Paki and, before you ask, yes, we will need him to get to the library.
: Wait a moment, ‘meet him’- are you telling me Nakht-pa-Aten's not dead?
: No, he was definitely killed about fifteen years ago. 
: He's killed so many of Paki's friends.
: Oh, he was killed alright- he just didn't stay dead.
: I was under the impression that your rulers were treated so nothing intervened with their journey to the afterlife, that they couldn't come back as ghosts.
: That is our usual process, to prepare them and then seal them in the Tomb of the Kings- 
: Paki's people were in charge of maintaining this resting place, strengthening the structure, and serving the pharaohs while they journeyed the Duat.
: If that's so, what makes you so certain he's returned?
: I wasn't at first. When initially revived, I didn't have my memories; I wandered the land aimlessly and I easily fell under the control of a powerful spirit. I do not know how long I spent under his control, but I certainly wasn't alone; his reach spread to the far corners of the land and there were certainly enough spirits buried beneath the sand to feed his power.
: My consciousness was jarred, however, when I heard the voice of a girl talking with what had been my master and I heard them discuss the plans to kill the pharaoh. 
: I entered a state of panic and confusion as disjointed memories flooded back and I fled the tomb. I first made my way to the palace, but then realized- I couldn't just go to the pharaoh like this, with no real intel and an unrecognizable look. I didn't even remember my own name, nor did I realize in whose service I had been. But, there was someone else I remembered: a man who had once cared for my true master greatly and her for him.
Jendayi’s head turned towards Ptolemy and a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it smile drifted over the Tyranitar’s face, which was quickly dashed by Alaric’s confused/nervous grunt.
: Just, stop for a moment: you were right to say your situation is hard to believe, because I'm struggling to make sense of it. 
: It's all Paki's fault; you see, Paki was chosen as leader of his people, that only he could capture the rays of Ra and form the sun out of sand. But, when Paki heard a voice call from the chambers, he foolishly gave the voice his sun and he ate it. And then, he wanted more and more sun! And soon, it wasn't enough anymore and he started to eat Paki's friends-
: Rays of Ra, sun out of sand, a voice ate the sun and your- what is he even spouting off about?
: Paki, can you just be quiet for a moment? This is already convoluted enough as it is.
: I understand it's hard to believe. Ptolemy didn't believe me when I first told him either- though of course, at that point, I didn't know who this spirit was either-
: By then, I was operating under the impression I was dealing with someone "new" who had been building his forces to make an attempt at a coup. I had sent Hager to infiltrate the group and he had given no intel so far that gave this Yamask's claim any merit. I had assumed she was just a lost confused spirit, but since she had found our base, I had her held until I figured out what should be done, as I was too busy to speak with her. But after days of her insistence on seeing me, Meritites, that Hippowdon we passed earlier, brought her to me and I recognized her old face in the mask. 
: You still didn't believe me though-
: Not until Husani brought Paki, no.
: This Pokémon?
: ...
: I found Paki when I found those three rogues- or rather, Paki had stowed away in my bag when I found those guys both pondering an orb and hauling some weird-looking statue child through a highly volatile area. 
: They had stolen Paki's newest sun! Paki had found the courage to go out to find the book to stop him and then they TOOK PAKI'S SUN, JUST LIKE HE DID!
: I told you Paki, they are thieves and you were rolling a GOLDEN BALL around the desert, what do you expect?! You led them straight to the library too; I'm glad that your 'sun' is all they decided to take.
: The library? So Paki knows where it is? He could take us there?
: He could, but he needs to help me first.
: With what?!
: Husani?
Ptolemy held out his hand and Husani began rummaging through his bag, finally pulling out several bunches of golden feathers, each end striped by two blue and one red interchanging marks.
: They were not easy to get, mind you.
: Feathers?
: Sigilyph feathers. I’ll say, that’s certainly not a commodity nowadays-
: I’ll make sure you are compensated. As for what I need Paki to do, I need him to use these feathers to clear a path through to the tomb of the kings.
: Paki confirmed the ghost that had me under his control, who has all the lost souls of the sands under his control, is none other than the spirit of Nakht-pa-Aten– … So driven while on the throne that he rose from his tomb and wouldn’t allow it to be pried from his cold dead hand.
Ptolemy pointed at the map, his talons tapping several marks labeled by Khetmaatian script.
: Paki should be able to use these feathers to reactivate the gates, marked by ancient Sigilyph statues that indicate the only safe passage to the tomb. With them activated, we'll have an identifiable pathway through not only the treacherous land itself, but we’ll also be shielded from the sandstorm his Yamask minions are creating, as well as their life-draining curses and other attacks.
: And... Paki can do this how?
: Paki's people can take psychic energy and infuse it into a new material using their own. Paki himself is allegedly especially skilled at it, or so he says-
: Paki DOES say it- Paki was not just the leader, but also master mason apprentice for Paki's people!
: Though I wished my group alone could stop them and finally have my chance of revenge… After so many of our numbers left for the Claws of Ammut, we would be severely outnumbered to deal with both the curse-infused sandstorm and all the roaming ghosts while protecting Paki. 
: So that's why Jendayi wanted to gather more people. 
: I don't understand why this other rebel group would willingly serve their former enemy-
: The Claws of Ammut rebels are unaware of who they really serve, or how their initial attack is just a distraction to be followed up by his actual army of ghosts.
: If you only learned of his true identity after you encountered those three, then he was able to hide it from you too until very recently.
: He operates through a messenger, but that's not important. Now that we know the truth-
: Hold on, you cannot be serious- this is what you would have our help with? Finding the Library of Thales and its information is too important a task; surely with your surplus of Dark types, handling ghosts shouldn’t be an issue. If it’s additional security you need, then once my captain and the rest return, they can help Ptolemy while we forge ahead with Paki to-
: No, you are not listening, there is no need to go to the library. The book wasn't there, Paki checked the hidden chamber!
Alaric visibly flinched while Matteo squinted at the tiny bug.
: What book would that be?
: You were right to say he shouldn't have been able to revive. His power at that is way too immense for a normal ghost-
: We believe the way he was able to bring back his spirit was through an amulet, or other object; it must have been snuck in by one of his followers.
: I don't want to make an assumption, but there are very few objects that can conjure up cursed artifacts capable of this magnitude.
: Matteo?
: If it’s as I fear and it's the Tome of Iah, the situation has just become a lot more dire.
: The Tome of Iah? Could that be possible… Paki didn't call it by that name, but would you recognize it if I described it to you? 
: You have seen it?
: Perhaps, years ago, when I went to… retrieve a personal possession that was stolen from me even longer ago from the pharaoh’s treasure room with Jendayi, in a separate sealed chamber within. I found what I came for but there were some other items there, among them a rather particular book. Paki didn't know by its visual description as he'd never seen it, but when I described how it felt…
: The tome! The tome needed to send the lost spirits on their voyage again!
: How it felt?
: I rather not talk about it.
: Describe its cover to me, the best you can recall.
: Ancient symbols etched around the back of a golden Rabsca, adorned with violet markings that seemed to glow as I approached. A large, round gem was set into the cover just above the claws of its hind legs. It was a mix of purples that almost seem to be slowly swirling about, like a deep smokey haze. I swear I could feel my gaze being pulled deeper, past the flowing violet ribbons… At first it seemed like nothing but darkness within its core, but the longer I stared, the more it felt like something was hidden deeper still… Like a kind of light–
: … I do not wish to speak of it further.
: ...
: Well?
: Radiant one, how long has the Tome of Iah been in the possession of the Khetmaatian royals when it was supposed to be buried in the library…?
: I don't know… It wasn’t in the same room any more, but it should still be in the palace somewhere. 
: How can you know that?
: Spirits can smell the book.
: Smell?
: They are drawn to it; able to sense its presence, as it contains the same essence as the energy of Ghost types themselves. Alaric, if you remember, you've encountered other objects of this category: the Celestial Stone of Aether and Tide Jewels of Sazanami. It's absolutely vital Nakht-pa-Aten doesn't gain possession of the actual book. It's possible his very assault on the palace isn't just for revenge, but to get this book as well…
: Would the book increase his strength even more?
: I do not know the nature of the cursed artifact he’s using as an anchor to this plane, nor the exact rites used in tombs to keep the deceased spirits contained-
: The best Paki’s people can provide.
: By my best estimate, if he kept to this tomb for so many years, it’s very much possible he CANNOT physically leave for whatever reason. What I do know for certain is that whatever he could use that book for, we do not want him to get it.
: But if Nakht-pa-Aten is after this Tome of Iah and knows it is in the palace, why would he care for the library? There should be no complications to your mission if you’d allow us to go there now; my warriors, who are much more suited for what you require help with, could assist you once they deal with the situation in the oasis.
: Why would he care about the library? Are you dense? Because the "library" isn’t just a single book! Or are you deadset on going to an empty library? Because trust me, you’d be quite set for death if you went before dealing with him and it would cause quite the complication for us too, especially if you led one of his ghost hordes to it.
: Quite so, there should be other things located within we would hope he doesn't get his hands on.
: Does Sa'Perah know about the book?
: At this point, we hope so, because we'll need it if we are to reverse the effect and take away his control. Jendayi has been unable to find it so far-
: And you are planning to just ask her for it?
: I'm hoping I can convince her of my identity and get her to take me seriously, since I need her armies to prepare for battle.
: … Don’t take offense to this, Jendayi, but are you sure you, or Paki for that matter, can be trusted?
: What? Moved on from distrusting me to someone else? 
: Frankly Husani, we can do both.
: You believe they were sent to bring the book to him?
: They might not even be aware of it, either. Nakht-pa-Aten was, and likely still is, a brilliant strategist. We must be extremely careful we are not playing into his hands. Jendayi, how are you certain you are truly free of his control? Paki, if you don't even know how the book looks, nor if I assume correctly have the strength and knowledge to use it, what prompted you to look for it?
: I was told, but it wasn’t the sun gobbler, it was one of the overseers and their people were taken by him too, like Paki’s people. 
: I suppose we can assume almost nobody at the tomb survived.
: …
: I’m not under his control…
: I can think for myself, I wouldn’t betray Sa’Perah Ah.
: Everything has been for her. All I did, the extent of my loyalty for my old master is what enabled me to break free of his control. If you are speculating he planned that all and let me go- no. I’m certain you are mistaken. 
: Even if that’s the case, are you certain you could remain free once he becomes aware of you and the book? Since regardless if it’s playing into his hands or not, we must still retrieve the book, perhaps Cecil should come with you to bring it back once it is found?
: You’ve got to be joking? Seeing how that sandstorm messed with him enough he opted out of this meeting, what would happen if he came face to face with a bunch of ghosts? If anything, I’d say maybe despite his otherwise impressively useful talents, he'd best stay behind at the base during the actual mission. Besides, we are kind of pressed for time and Jendayi could travel way faster too, seeing as she doesn’t have to deal with the terrain and heat getting to her like furball would, no “offense”.
: But wouldn’t they sense the book and come for her? I doubt she could handle them either.
: They’d probably assume she’s just one of them on her way to their master.
: I can be trusted…I-
: Baal-hamon could help her be sure to stay out of his influence; he could also help with using the book itself and convincing Sa’Perah Ah to reveal where it is. 
: He’s a Vikivolt priest, loyal to Sa’Perah Ah’s family. He can be trusted.
: You are asking us to trust a lot of people we don’t know CAN be trusted.
: Ditto. Though the difference is, we actually have a stake in the state of our country and you just want our help to get to the library which we just established contains things that shouldn't be in the wrong hands or, well, in your case, vines? 
A moment of silence fell on the group, with Alaric still mentally trying to catch up, his mind fixated on one, single fact: the library might not have the answers he sought. It was a fact he was having immense trouble believing - was everything Ene uncovered merely a child’s hope at returning home (and was that so wrong)? - and he viciously shook his head, grumbling as he broke the silence:
: Fine, I can accept that you will need Sa’Perah’s help in preparing for battle against this true enemy, this ghost of Nakht-pa-Aten. I can even start to wrap my head around Paki’s role in all this - but what promise can you offer that you will still lead us to the library after we have helped clear the way to the Tomb of Kings?
: You all seem very keen on having us keep our noses out of your situation - which I have only recently agreed is the best course of action - so why should we start now?
: Frankly, because you’re already neck-deep.
: The truth is that if you were to ignore us and go to the library now with Paki as your guide, were you to even survive the journey, you would simply be offering Nakht-pa-Aten access to it himself. And without our intervention, he would be free to amass his ghostly horde and it would only be a matter of time before he could get what he needs to free himself. This scenario is exactly what he wants– … You are not the only one who wishes access to the knowledge contained within.
: We know that Nakht-pa-Aten or at the very least his messenger is aware of your presence here, judging by the assassination attempt on Sa’Perah currently being launched from the Wasdj Oasis, where your captain and people have gone. It is likely that he also knows your true goal for coming here - the library and its secrets - and thus will send spies to follow your every movement.
: Spies, you say…?
: I know I said that trust is in short supply, but you must put it in something...
: I, for one, do not ask for your trust: only your patience. You heard the Lucario’s words earlier; that sandstorm is not natural and even with Paki guiding you, you would not make it past the wadi. If you truly wish to go into the library, then we will take you- but only once the threat of Nakht-pa-Aten is laid to rest, as it is too dangerous to do otherwise.
: … I fear we have no choice, Alaric. Perhaps it would behoove us to assist with their tasks- after all, can you say for certain that this isn’t in some way related to our own mission? The prospect of Khetmaat’s future does seem bleak, not to mention that the fall out this severe could hardly be contained within its borders. Is it mere coincidence that we are here now, in a position to help prevent it from happening?
He couldn’t help feeling like he had been tricked: by his mind, his allies, his enemies, all blending together into an amalgamation of betrayal. Alaric met Matteo’s stony gaze, Husani’s exasperated smirk, Jendayi’s plaintive smile, Ptolemy’s stern scowl… even Paki’s blissfully blank stare… and he couldn’t seem to find it in himself to worry about pretenses.
These people would not listen until the truth was shoved in their faces and that wouldn’t happen until he reached the library. Jendayi had been right; Ptolemy needed their assistance and they needed his, whether they liked it or not.''
: … That it does. Very well, we shall assist. Tell us what we must do.
: (thinking) “Then to the library- or else all will be lost regardless!”
The Aethrians gathered near the entrance of the cavernous hideout they had spent the last two days in, the large rock that previously kept the violent winds at bay having been cast aside, only to be replaced by Ptolemy’s imposing figure. Beyond the stone archway the winds had finally calmed, leaving the sands mostly still and gleaming with the afternoon sun. Slithering up to the Tyranitar’s side, King Alaric cleared his throat of the lingering dust that eternally clung to the air.
: Thank you, everyone, for gathering. I know this isn't what we expected to do here, those of you found wanting of a warrior’s spirit least of all, but for us to reach the library we must band together. Our combined forces along with Ptolemy’s people are necessary to defeat this evil spirit of Nakht-pa-Aten and free the desert from his control. 
: Indeed. But before we can depart, I need all of your undivided attention.
: Despite the time we have given you these past few days, learning our ways of survival and how to work alongside my people in this endeavor, it simply isn't enough– … But we have no more time; the sandstorm outside has lifted and we must swiftly depart.
: The cloaks Husani has provided to all of you should help stave off the worst of the whipping sands-
: Now hang on– I believe that the trader gets to explain the value of these items, if the rebel leader doesn't mind?
Ptolemy was silent for a moment before uttering a low snort and ushering the sand crocodile to speak with a clawed gesture. Husani took a moment to flash a teasing gesture to his towering friend before moving to take center stage of the sandy halls. Finding the best spot to be seen, Husani raised his claws, presenting a deep brown, tattered-looking cloak with a hooked hood; the shape bearing reminiscence to a Mandibuzz’s visage. Further going along with the cowl's beak-like appearance, a series of bones, black beads, and long teeth were strung along the shoulders and back of the garment, giving off hollow clinks as they lightly knock together in the merchant's grasp.
: Since some among us are less equipped for dealing with even a regular sandstorm, much less a supernatural one– I have supplied something that should help all of you survive a little easier in a sandstorm. And we’ll just have to hope that it somewhat carries over whatever this is.
: I call ‘em Cloaks of the Vulture. Don't mind ‘em looking a little on the crusty side with sand and the "well-loved" appearance, rather them than you, yeh?
: What about those masks that some of Ptolemy’s people wear?
: … I’d say I’m shocked that the royal was immediately distracted by the shiny gold things. But I’m honestly not in the slightest. 
: Husani.
:… Look, highness, there’s more to these than their dingy looks. You lot are getting a real treasure here; one that can potentially save your skins out there in that unforgiving sandpit hell you’re waltzing into. These cloaks’ve been well used in these parts for safer, swifter passage through the storms and their make is sturdier than you’d think.
: I suppose these qualities might not do much for whatever you end up encountering out there, but at least no more sand in your-
: That'll do.
: We will be arriving at the edge of the canyon’s valley by nearly dusk. Despite the sun no longer beating down on your backs, traveling further at night will be disadvantageous, as it will be nigh impossible to see through the blinding sands. However, the night is necessary for Paki to navigate.
: Rellor, apart from being the keepers and builders of the tombs, are also excellent desert guides. They’ve got an impeccable ability to navigate the wastelands using the stars.
: The sky is the map constructed by the great ancestors; they captured light itself in their spheres and rolled them into the sky. My people can follow it, always.
: While I assume you've all been briefed on some of what myself and your king have discussed, it bears repeating as we cannot risk having anyone come with us that isn't fully informed. The desert before the Tomb of the Kings is treacherous; there is only one safe passage through and that is by following the route that the funerary processions take. Along that path will be the Sigilyph Wards that will make this push possible and only Paki knows their precise location. 
: The statues of the holy desert spirits that helped shape the desert. If you stray off the path of their protection, the great desert serpent will drag you down to swallow you whole!
: Rellor, or in our case Paki, can create a sphere of sand with a Sigilyph feather-
: VERY HARD TO COME BY SIGILYPH FEATHERS THAT I RISKED MY NECK TO GET, MIND YOU. 
: -Inside. To both keep the feather from flying away and to depress a small spot in the statue’s base. This will allow the statue to absorb the feather’s latent psychic energy and create a barrier, to both stabilize the area and shield those within it from-
: The serpent that devours all!
: -The harsh winds that are creating these sandstorms, as well as what lurks within it.
: Complicated stuff, huh? All entirely intentional, too. The old architects picked this spot for its near constant storms to keep potential grave robbers away and anybody who happened to be not so affected by the sand were taken care of by the ol’ King’s Eyes. Pretty sure I’ve heard that the same kind of system used to exist near the library, ‘course that's all sunken so far that only Rellor knows where it USED to be.
: That’s irrelevant to our current mission– … What everyone needs to know is that keeping Paki safe so that he may have the time needed to activate these wards is of the utmost importance, as they will be your only stable form of protection.
: Especially now, the malevolent hordes of ghosts that plague this area will undoubtedly seek out any who would dare try to find their way though… Alas, it is because of this that we cannot send Paki to do this before we cross, were he to be snatched away by these spirits-
: -We would pretty much be marching for our own funeral procession. 
: Husani.
: Sorry, sorry– … just trying to add some flair to it.
: The purple-eyed Yamask, they being the ones fueling this unnatural sandstorm through their combined power, will be one of the two types of foes we will be accosted by. The winds of this storm will not only deprive you of your senses, it will send the other of our foes, lost souls of this land, to actively pull at you, trying to rip you away from our path-
: Right into the serpent's waiting maw-
: ... From what my earlier attempts revealed, the storm is overflowing with a baleful energy, making the air thick with curses that will wear at your very being. The touch of the purple-eyed Yamask will steal away your vigor, leaving you unable to harness your abilities so long as they’ve the will to fight. This goes for your moves as well; they can completely render at least one of your moves useless as they see fit, potentially leaving you vulnerable. Even should you dispatch one, there will be no time to breathe easy outside of any of the barriers. Where one falls, others will quickly take its place and their numbers appear to be as endless as the sandstorms they evoke. I would also advise you to keep your eyes on-
: The nonexistent path?
: On Paki. Meeting the eye of any of the Yamask could spur them to bind you to where you stand ‘till the evil eye upon you is forced shut, allowing them to close in on you.
: And, what of the lost souls?
: Their forms are that of Bramblin and Brambleghast. Bodies that are easily carried by the whipping winds, to both their weal and woe, as they can advantageously ride the gales with tremendous speed, but they’ve no control of themselves over its pull. Beyond sapping your strength to fight back, the lost souls will attempt to entrap you and feast themselves upon your life force. Should you be too large to fit within their snared bodies, you may find them attempting to heap themselves upon you to accomplish the same task. If you become trapped: call out to your companions while your strength still holds out and fight like hell to free yourself… Were you to be dragged away, your chances of escape, let alone survival, will be bleak.
: I should not think this needs saying, but do not bother trying to speak with any of these spirits. Their minds are lost and their will is not their own, there is nothing you can do for them. With any luck, the priest Baal-hamon can give them their proper burial rites and allow them the chance to gain passage to Aaru, should we be successful. Or perhaps all that is truly needed to free these enslaved spirits is Nakht-pa-Aten's demise.
: The Sigilyph Wards, once active, will repel the ghosts away from where the effects of its barrier are cast, though I'd advise we not linger long. While a barrier provides us protection and gives us valuable time to recuperate between the wards, the ghosts will begin to amass at the barrier’s edge and eventually it will become inevitable that we will be overwhelmed should we attempt to leave.
: The wards may not stand out well in the storm. While they had once been maintained and even painted as vibrant as their living counterparts, with what has transpired over these last several years, they have fallen into disrepair… Left dull as the surrounding sands, save for the gemstones that have been set into the stone.
: Disrepair is a kind way of putting it; they are absolutely wrecked from what I’ve been told. You’ve said a couple were half or even near fully buried in sand, broken apart, some even to the point of laying off to the side of their own pillar. Are those ones even still viable?
: I am sure of it. Though limited as our own explorations were, had we the time, I am certain I could have plucked a broken ward from the sands and replaced it onto its pillar. So long as the three gemstones set in the ward can be steadied back into place and Paki given the access he needs to get the feathers into the statue’s base, the barriers will appear.
: Sure hope you’re right and you lot can get this done in one shot. Because I sure don't want to have to go find and bring in more of those feathers after a failed attempt. No money you could possibly have left would convince me otherwise either.
: I understand. Thus, my people that have been training alongside the Aetherians will also be along and shall endeavor to make this a success.
Ptolemy gestured to the small group of nearby rebels, their gold masks donned and their ragged cloaks wrapped about them. A three-clawed hand mark with an eye-like palm was displayed in white on each of the cloaks.
: My second in command, Mert ekert, whose strength will be invaluable. Menes, one of our swiftest members, who can act as a distraction if needed. Meritites, who is impervious to the winds. Umayma, who can provide heat to those struggling with the night desert temperatures. And Fadil- … where are they now…?
Each stepped forward in order as their names are called: A moody-looking female Rhydon, a male Sandshrew that rolled into a ball and did a quick little spin, a somewhat sad-looking female Hippowdon, and a softly smiling female Numel. Moments after being mentioned, a Quagsire stumbled hurriedly into the group, lifting a damp paw towards the Tyranitar in sheepish acknowledgment.
: Fadil was specifically selected so they can provide both protection and relief against the ruinous effects the ghosts can inflict. 
: My people are easily able to stand up to the relentless effects of the sandstorm, but it is the lost souls that we struggle greatly against. They have been the reason we have had such little success before. A true thorn in our sides.
: And that is where my people come in?
: Yes.
: In our other excursions out into the storm, the Bramblin and Bramblghast were the ones posing the greatest threat to my people. As stated before, they would try to drag the smaller of us away within themselves, while the larger among us would be relentlessly buried into submission. We tried to vary our capabilities to better handle our shortcomings, but after losing several to their numbers, it is clear we needed something more. Your people provide a way to cover our weaknesses and bolster our numbers, that together we might overcome this unstoppable force before us.
The Tyranitar straightened, craning his neck to peer over his shoulder and out into the opening of the cave. After a moment, he made a shuffled stomp to the side, clearing the path for a disheveled figure to make their way through the stone archway. The cloaked Lucario’s arms were folded in discomfort before his chest, his ears pinned tightly back as his feet uncharacteristically dragged through the sand with each shuffled step. The only time anyone could recall Cecil ever having looked this rattled was back when he feared Nick had drowned in Veethrfölnir.
: From your demeanor– … it is as I feared then?
: Cecil? What exactly did you see?
: … Too much… The aura twisted and writhed akin to a barrel thick with ravenous eels–
: The serpent!
: Paki, I do not want to tell you again to cease about this; it is merely a legend.
: Calm yourself, Cecil. Is it truly as dense as you say?
: My senses are still burning from the sheer presence of it all, the intensity like staring into the sun. The very sandstorm itself feels alive with the amount of movement and aura running coursing it… 
: It is too hard to look at, it is just a solid mass of malignance brimming with malice and anger, confusion, despair…
: Your companion here offered to scout ahead for us as the winds here began to die down the night previous. With what we had learned of their patterns, my greatest concern was that their numbers would burgeon as we drew closer to the imminent attempt on Sa’Perah Ah’s life. And he has now confirmed that this is indeed what awaits us.
: Ffffffantastic. And here I thought there were too many ghosts before.
: Make any final preparations you have now. We can afford no extra time; we will depart soon.
: Of all the times for Gawain to not be by my side…
: Should you wish to discuss any strategy or shortcomings of your own with my people, do so as we make our way there. They will readily let you know what they are capable of, as you should make your own abilities known to them. You, Cecil, you are to remain behind to help safeguard our refuge alongside several of my remaining guards.
: But–
: Your own words are what influenced my decision on this. I would otherwise readily accept your capabilities within our ranks, but these same gifts leave you nigh blind in this instance. There is no dishonor in this task I leave you with; guarding those left behind is vital for us and for your own. I’ve neglected this before in the past and we suffered immensely for my hubris.
: I have to agree; it is for the best that you remain here, Cecil. Drastic measures will be necessary should this somehow end in failure, as you know.
: … 
With a stoic nod, the Lucario moved to join Matteo’s side. Husani tilted his head to watch the two Pokémon, folding his arms lazily behind his head as a mildly amused smirk grew along his snout.
: Not my company of choice, but it'll do. So, you let me know how everything goes with the ghosts and so on, Ptolemy. I'll be cheering you guys on and pointing our assassin-busting Aetherian buddies your way when they return from the mayhem they'll no doubt cause in Wahdj.
: Husani, you are coming along with us. You may not know where the wards are exactly, but your eyes are able to see through the sands better than any among us.
: Yeah… No. Don't think so. Last I checked, I don’t work for you. And just because you benched fido over here, doesn’t mean you can drag me along to take his place.
: I had always intended for you to come along with us. Even well before the Aetherians had shown up.
: And? Did you plan to pay me to risk my hide galavanting into the arms of death with you? 
: … No. I’d hoped you would be willing to take this chance to help Khetmaat, since you've been cooperating thus far.
: Look, you’re a very loyal customer and I'm a very loyal trader, but I don't know about this, Ptolemy. I'm serious when I say I'm not one of your rebels and I'm certainly no warrior–
: Neither are the Aetherians currently here, but they are likely to fare far better were you to endeavor to help.
Husani squinted questioningly at the various rogues peppered within the Aetherian’s ranks. They try their best to look as innocuous as possible, averting their eyes, shying away behind others, shuffling their weapons behind their backs; absolutely oozing suspicion. He opened his mouth to dispute the Pikachu’s words, only to be interrupted by Ptolemy stooping low to come to the Krokorok’s eye level.
: We’ve no time for this, so let me pose one deciding question to you: do you wish to remain here and entertain the king?
: …
: So! What were we still waiting on before we can get out of here?
: It would appear that everything is in order. So, let us make our leave now, this king does not need to be entertained and wishes to get this over with. If there are no more problems you failed to address?
: It seems that there is one I was unaware of until just now, glaring me in the face. This one can be resolved instantly, however.
: You are not coming.
: EXCUSE ME??!
: How dare you– What authority do you think you wield?? Like hell you will stop me; I MUST get to the library!
: And you WILL. Upon our success, you will be escorted directly there AFTER we can clear a safe path. I am no fool to take you along on this dangerous mission any more than I will take Cecil; out there I cannot afford to make mistakes and have no time to look after you. Were you to force yourself along and perish on this trek, not only will it put me at odds with your warriors, whom I may yet have need of should they return, but it will imperil whatever quest it is that you rant of! So, if you want me to be able to honor the promise I made to you, you WILL stay here. 
: YOU–!
: I will have my remaining guards physically hold you down till I send word for them should we continue this any further.
: !!
: Oh, I would kill to see that spectacle. Keep it up, maybe I can catch a glimpse as we leave.
: Oh my.
: …
: …
: …
: … You are staying here.
: … I will stay here, for now...
: Come. We depart soon.
(Meanwhile... Flames of War and Love)
Heeeey, how’s it going? (Rumors of our deaths were greatly exaggerated.) Hope you all like sand, because where you’re heading, it will be getting in everything.
While the warriors are off doing… warrior things, you’re making checkpoints. The rundown for this part of the mission is dealing with a ghost-powered sandstorm, the ghosts themselves, suffering through an annoyingly necessary escort, and being a handyman. Exciting, mostly anyway. You can do as many or as few of the different suggested objectives as you want, as long as your character accomplishes getting the hell out of the sandstorm. Your character a craftsman? You’re probably a fantastic pick to fix the wards. Hello rogues, we see you. You guys are gonna be vital in helping deal with the ghosts. Denizens are quite the mixed bag, but you all are capable of something for this, even if you’re just digging away sand or keeping people together. Just make it through to the other side of this hellscape and you’ll be in the clear. Figuratively and metaphorically.
If you have NPCs, you can bring them along to assist you or (if they're qualified to be counted as warriors) have them go help out Osmund and Gawain’s group. Won’t be earning you any extra rewards for doing both parts, but hey, some folks like to show both sides of things. Speaking of NPCs, we’ve gone ahead and listed a few of them that are coming with you to help out. You can use them as much as you like in your stories, (Perfect for any of you here that have passive characters) or you can just commit them to background noise, they’re just on the table should you need them. Only the listed NPCs below are coming along for this, the others are getting left behind for now till the way is safe(r).
The only enemies you’ll be encountering out here are the multitudes of Galar Yamask, Bramblin, and Brambleghast, unless you also count the wind itself, but honestly these guys will be enough of a pain through sheer numbers. As for your escort, well, he’s small and kinda slow, but he’s gotta keep making sand balls for each of the wards, he’s also easy to steal, soooo… Hope you got your practice in on annoying escort quests with the bears!
Also, also: All characters doing this part of the mission have been loaned some sick looking (seriously, they look terrible) cloaks to help out with the sand, since you know, there’s a lot of that. They’re artifacts, but you aren’t gonna be restricted if you’re already carrying one, you can use both freely. (Though you might feel a twinge of jealousy emanating from the one you brought with you.)
All the extra junk you need to know is down below. Good luck surviving!
Survive the sandstorm and what lies within it.
Your objective this time is to assist the King’s Eyes rebels in escorting Paki through this unnatural sandstorm, to create a safe path to the Valley of the Kings.
First and foremost: Paki must be allowed to walk on his own, as he needs to create a sandball around each of the Sigilyph feathers. Only Rellor appear to know how to handle these delicate objects and keep them from simply disintegrating after handling. So, as appealing an idea as it would have been to just make all the sandballs beforehand and rush through this nightmare, they will crumble with anyone else’s touch. Thus, they need to be made one by one while en route to each of the 12 Sigilyph Wards.
The Sigilyph Wards
These twelve large stone statues have been around since ancient times, their color stripped surfaces and damaged forms expressing as much. They were once used by the funeral processions for deceased Pharaohs as a way to escape the pummeling of the frequent storms in the area, as well as it being symbolic of the deceased’s journey through the Duat. Nearly invisible against the biting grains of windswept sand, Paki is the only one with a real idea of where these statues stand, or, well, should stand. The state of disrepair they are in is variable, but you need to primarily concern yourself with 2 main things:
The base of the statue must be cleared of sand and any other debris.
Paki needs to be able to climb into one of the several holes around the base to place the sandball containing the Sigilyph feather. Due to how severe the continuous sandstorm has been, a majority of the wards will be at least somewhat buried in sand and potentially blocked by their own broken parts. Even if a majority of the ward remains under sand, as long as Paki can access the holes, then the barrier will materialize.
The main body of the statue needs to be properly set on the base.
All of the statues have seen better days, some more than others. You will more than likely find wards with broken off chunks of themselves. While a majority of the possible damage could be considered negligible, (such as large chipping, crumbling, broken off wings, and the like) the worst instance you can encounter would be if a statue were completely debased or one of its crystal eyes lost in the sand. For the barrier to form, the main body of the ward must be properly stood up on its base with the eyes set in place. Use your skills, moves, and/or assistance from the NPCs joining you to right the ward and get it into a workable state.
Remember: any repairs you make need to last for at least a while, as Alaric and everyone else that was left behind still need to make their way through the storm. When the barrier activates, the gemstone eyes will glow and a translucent magenta dome will surround a large portion of the area around the ward. Being within this barrier gives everyone the effects of the ability Magic Guard and also removes the effects of the move Curse from anyone afflicted by it. The barrier forcefully drives out the storm and ejects any opponents still within its borders when activated and will continue to keep both at bay. The glow of the barrier can be seen from a decent ways away, even through the obscuring sands. This can be used by characters to find their way back if they get pulled away, but it will also attract more ghosts, so keep that in mind.
The Lost Souls
The storm is fierce, but so are those lurking inside it. This stretch of the desert’s southwestern region, while normally just a hazard for frequent storms and high rocky cliffs, is currently infested with hostile ghosts. Travel anywhere near this area has been diverted for some time now as the sandstorm rapidly grew in intensity and just didn’t stop. It is still steadily increasing, both in intensity and size, as more and more of the purple eyed Yamask emerge from the direction of the Valley of the Kings. Their relentless aggression has claimed many lives, who now lash out violently to share their fates with anyone foolish enough to wander too close.
Galarian Yamask:
These little guys are completely glassy eyed, but somehow still exude murderous intent in their pursuit of anyone they see. When not aggravated by an outside presence in their line of sight, they remain completely stationary, fixated on maintaining and growing the strength of the sandstorm. You would never be able to eliminate enough of them to make an area safe, you could fight for days and the sandstorm would still grow. Even in battle, they will prioritize refreshing their own Sandstorm before continuing their assault. They are slow, but they will not stop once they set their sights on someone.
The stone binding their tail and their very souls seems to be made of a chunk of sandstone, with identical hieroglyphs etched into the surface of each of them. Should one manage to break, (which, good luck with that) the Yamask bound to it will vanish without a trace. However, the stones have an unheard of resiliency to them, leaving only moves that could break stone or barriers capable of destroying them, too bad most of those ones are fighting or normal type moves. (This information is here for those with an available workaround, such as type changing moves and moves that nullify ghost resistance, or Psychic Fangs.)
While capable of using damaging attacks, the Yamask will focus more on causing suffering to your characters. They mostly have status type moves meant to hamper one’s movement and ability to fight back, so you will be dealing with a lot of messed with stats (Memento, Guard Split, Wonder Room, etc.), messed with moves and abilities (Wandering Spirit, Disable, Imprison), and messed with movement (Trick room, Mean Look, Rock Tomb). And also, we can’t forget Curse. They have absolutely no self preservation, so they will not hesitate to use Curse: you’ll need to be on your toes. Escaping combat, in the form of someone else standing in for your character for a short time, will help alleviate the curse, but with the sheer volume of enemies in the area, this will be rough to accomplish.
Bramblin and Bramblgast:
This is what becomes of all those who’ve perished in or near the unnatural sandstorm. Referred to as Lost Souls by the King’s Eyes, they are thrown about by the winds of the sandstorm, their resentment of their fate growing to become a pure malice for anything still living. They are fast and violent, using the sandstorms produced by the Yamask to slingshot themselves into their targets, so do not expect to be safe if they miss or go past you, they are coming back. Being opportunistic, they do not care who they are going for and generally won’t focus on a single target, taking whatever they can get instead. While they are generally unfocused, larger targets will elicit a small horde to form up, opting to bury their prey with sheer numbers to feast together instead of trying to envelope them by themselves.
Their main form of attacking consists of launching at a target and opening the top spines of their head in an attempt to envelope their prey, with any successful in their capture then attempting to roll away with their captive. Isolated prey will be subject to an onslaught of life draining effects (Absorb, Mega Drain, Giga Drain, Strength Sap, Leech Seed) the moment they become ensnared by the tumbleweed, which will not stop unless either they or their prey expire, or their prey manages to escape. While they are primarily focused on stealing as much life energy as they can from their opponents, they can and will use encumbering moves (Infestation, Block, Spikes, Confuse Ray, Disable) to make their prey easier to capture. Their abilities make them immune to the damaging effect of Sandstorm, as well as other wind based attacks and they can easily slip past shields and barriers, except the barrier formed by the Sigilyph Wards. The light and effect of the ward will throw any of the tumbleweed Pokémon out of its radius, though they will begin to amass in heaps at its edge the longer the group stays in the barrier, waiting for their opportunity to strike.
Characters that are captured or overwhelmed by these tumbleweed Pokémon need to be freed as quickly as possible. If your character is captured and pulled out into the sandstorm, they need to try to struggle free or call for help from their allies before they are pulled too far. The further a character is pulled, the harder it will be for them to make it back to an ever moving group, unless they have something they can follow or something to guide them back. If Paki is taken, all NPCs will drop what they are doing to rescue him (as should you). In the event of needing to struggle free, the ghosts will be purged from the dead plant they inhabit if their eyes are destroyed. We know some characters may have inhibitions when it comes to dealing with these spirits, but as Ptolemy said, they are all far beyond helping and it’s either you or them.
Assisting NPCs
Coming along with your characters is a small contingent of the King’s Eyes rebels– … and Husani, who, need he remind you, is just a merchant. Paki is also there, but he won’t be doing any fighting. Apart from Ptolemy himself, all the members of the King’s Eyes wear a similar outfit to the rebels you previously encountered, except their masks seem to be made of actual gold and the hand mark on their cloaks only has 3 claws. The NPCs that will be fighting are there to use as much or as little as you please, you can rely entirely on them, or simply mention them in the background. Either way, below are the important things to remember for them if you use them.
Ptolemy - Tyranitar
Having lost far too many of his people (to both forms of the word desert), Ptolemy is not risking losing any more without first risking himself. A capable and alert fighter, he will often be the first to respond to calls for help and will do so fiercely. Under his deep brown rags, he wears ridged gold plate armor and various gold bands. While he carries a spear and a sword with an unusual C-shaped grip, neither will be of any use during this trek, aside from using the spear as a walking stick. 
Ptolemy is also in possession of an artifact that can block status effects, though he will not rely on it. He will use it should extreme danger befall the group, however.
Moves:
Earthquake, Outrage, Payback, Fire Punch, Sunny Day, and Stone Edge
Artifact:
Ordinance of the Sun
A small gold tablet worn on one's horn with ancient writing etched into it. Those who know the language could tell you that it says “By Pharaoh’s command, light banishes insidious intent.” You sense a dignified presence that almost seems to hum into existence.
* Can evoke the move Crafty Shield three times per group activity. (Missions, Events, Behests, etc.)
* Upon successfully blocking a move, all those affected by the Crafty Shield are temporarily granted the ability Good as Gold.
* Those granted the Good as Gold ability will have any lingering negative status effects cleared.
* The ability dissipates after a short time (equivalent to 2 minutes), or once the ability blocks 5 attacks.
==
Husani - Krokorok
While not really a fighter, Husani is invaluable to this group for another reason: he can see in the sandstorm. Though the wards will be hard to make out against the same colored sands that are swirling around (unless you’re close enough), the ghosts will be easy for him to see. A fantastic ability to have to see your enemies coming at you and then watching where they have taken off with your kidnapped buddy. His special eyes also give him a knack for finding things in the sand, in case a gemstone or three happen to be missing out of a ward. Apart from being a wonderful seeing-eye-croc/early warning system, Husani is also a sand swimmer and will spend most of his time up to his cheeks in the ground you’re treading on. So, no steppy.
Moves:
Stone Edge, Embargo, Torment, Dig, Scary Face, and Counter
==
Paki - Rellor
As our very small, very vulnerable escorted guest, Paki will be rolling along, just a bug on a mission. He knows his role: to make the perfect ball by taking a Sigilyph feather and summoning the power of the cosmos as he rolls it round and round in the sand. Then he’ll head for the statues of the desert spirits, one by one and, hopefully, not get bug-napped along the way… That’s your job, by the way. Despite being so small, he will be easily taken by any ghost, failing any and all perception checks, as he’ll be so focused on his task that he won’t be aware that he’s in any danger until it’s too late.
Moves:
Rock Tomb, Struggle Bug, Sand Attack, Cosmid Power, Dig, and Endure…
(But don’t let him fight, there’s no point, he can’t and won’t. Too small. Too stealable.)
==
Menes - Sandshrew
Paki isn’t the only one rolling about: Menes, one of the swiftest members of the King’s Eyes rebels, will be joining the journey as yet another round traveler. He will act as a distraction against the ghosts, darting across the path without sinking as long as he can keep rolling. However, since he is relatively small as well, he can be easily blown off-course by the sandstorm, and he’s not a particularly strong fighter, really only using his moves to break from bindings (for example, Rapid Spin to get rid of Leech Seed). Rumor is that he has some family in the Claws of Ammut, but he’s not eager to talk about them, so it might be best to avoid that topic of conversation.
Moves:
Rapid Spin, Dig, Defense Curl, Rollout, Gyro Ball, and X-Scissor
==
Mert ekert - Rhydon
Seemingly in a perpetual bad mood, Mert ekert only really likes Ptolemy’s company, so don’t expect to have much small talk with her. She once served as a palace guard while Ptolemy was working undercover as Sa’Perah Ah’s bodyguard; it was at that time that she formed a strong friendship with him. Her role on the journey to the tomb is as the main muscle, since her physical strength is on par with Ptolemy’s. If she’s close enough, she can help free people from the ghosts’ grasps… but that also proves to be her undoing, as she may not notice if a couple of Leech Seeds have latched onto her tough hide in the process, making her vulnerable to having her health drained. She’s also not particularly fast, to the surprise of no one.
Moves:
Ice Punch, Aqua Tail, Stone Edge, Ice Beam, Drill Run, and Rock Polish
==
Meritites - Hippowdon
You might recognize this Hippowdon if you remember Shani, the Hippopotas handmaiden you met at the palace; she has the same curve to her jaw and crinkle around the eyes. Meritites is Shani’s mother, who was a witness to the events surrounding the death of the pharaoh many years ago, which inevitably pulled her into the affairs of the King’s Eyes. Somehow, she managed to conceal her relation to her daughter, allowing Shani to live a fairly normal life and to later pursue the chance of working under the new pharaoh. But that’s a different story. Frankly, Meritites is here to bring this to an end, so she can finally have some peace and quiet. Unaffected by the winds due to her tankiness, she is big enough to not get stolen by the tumbleweeds - but she is slow (even when sand swimming) and heavy, meaning she can be easily immobilized, so try not to let her get caught in the weeds.
Moves:
Slack Off, Ice Fang, Fire Fang, Crunch, Roar, and Sand Tomb
==
Umayma - Numel
Umayma does everything very, very, slowly. She needs to spend energy to keep her core warm enough to use fire and using too much fire makes her even slower. Still, her abilities make her vital to keeping the tumbleweeds away from Paki, so it’s a necessary sacrifice of speed to keep her moving. Chatter around the camp revealed that she is the mother of identical Girafarig twins, one of whom works at the palace, the other at a prominent inn in the capital. One topic that makes Umayma smile (slowly) from ear to ear is how her twins often swap positions, passing information gathered from the palace to the outside for the benefit of the King’s Eyes.
Moves:
Incinerate, Earth Power, Charm, Yawn, Fire Spin, and Iron Head
==
Fadil - Quagsire
Despite the extreme danger posed to their own health, this Quagsire appears completely unfazed, or perhaps the concept is still catching up. Either way, Fadil is here to provide relief for the not-so-well-equipped-for-the-terrain ‘mon, like a water bottle with a laid-back smile. Having a bag brimming with berries and a line-up of support moves, they’re focused only on helping Ptolemy and everyone else involved to the best of their ability. This sometimes amounts to having berries thrown at your face for the sake of your health, since they’re not terribly fast. Of course, their ability to help is entirely subject to if they’re attacked by the Bramblin and Brambleghast or not; keep those weeds away from them at all costs.
Moves:
Chilling Water, Haze, Mist, Fling, Helping Hand, and Mud Slap
Bonus
Husani’s generosity has given the group a little extra help for this mission. All characters involved have been given an artifact that they can use freely for this part of the mission, even if they are already carrying one. Apart from that, they are also great for helping keep sand out of your eyes and face holes, so you know, pretty great. One thing to keep in mind though is that the barrier created by the wards does negate the weather, so if you stay within the ward’s barrier for too long, your cloak will drop its effect if it is active. And no, you can’t jump in and out of the barrier to keep the effect going, reentering after leaving will just drop the effect instantly. 
Keep in mind that your characters are only borrowing these till you reach the other side of the sandstorm. So they don’t need to hesitate to use the charges, but they should still try not to overexert the artifact; Husani wants these back, after all. Anyway, here’s the stats:
Cloak of the Vulture
A tattered, deep brown cloak with a hooked hood, giving it the appearance of a beak. Strung along the shoulders and back rest a series of bones, black beads, and long teeth that rattle gently with every movement. You sense a strong feeling of comfort radiating from these rags when in arid environments.
* Can evoke the ability Overcoat two times per group activity. (Missions, Events, Behests, etc.)
* Overcoat will remain active until the presence of extreme weather dissipates. (Spending longer than 30 seconds out of damaging weather conditions.)
* If no extreme weather condition is active when the ability is evoked, Overcoat will remain in effect until it has blocked the effects of 5 powder based moves.
* If the wearer encounters or is within a sandstorm while this artifact’s Overcoat effect is active, they gain the effects of the move Tailwind as long as they remain within the sandstorm.
Final Notes
That should be all you guys need to know for this mission. As usual, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send in a group note or poke us on Discord, we are always more than happy to help. There isn’t really a time limit for this, (we are working on some rule changes) but we would recommend that you should have your part for this done(ish) by around September at least, as we will be posting the next part at about that time. Some meanwhiles will be springing up between now and then, but they will mostly just be context for things your character isn’t privy to, so it won’t affect what happens during this part of the mission.
We’re excited to be back and especially excited for the upcoming parts. (Yes, you should be worried.) Have fun trying not to die in a sandstorm!
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 Meanwhile... His Future, Her Past
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