Author's Notes:

This is part one of two of my crossover with Evowizard25 and his story A New World, A New Conflict.
It also contains SPOILERS for that story! This is your last chance to turn back before you get spoiled.
It was fun, writing this chapter.

The small family woke up the next morning, ready for whatever life would throw at them. After a short breakfast, Vincent came up with an idea for the first portion of the day.

Why don't we all go see Mary real fast, see how she's getting on with all the distrust the ponies are throwing around?

Sam shrugged, it didn't sound like such a bad idea to him. Plus, maybe Mary would go a bit easier on him if he brought Vincent around. "Sounds like a good idea to me."

Bit beeped once before shaking his head. "I desire to find a scrap yard, along with estimates for the projects I have planned."

Vincent nodded slightly before tilting his head. How did the modification go?

"Well enough. I tested it with a Charge Beam, and nothing blew. We should still get an Electric-type to stress-test it later."

The trio of Sam, Lucy, and Vincent would see Bit off at the front door before turning and walking the Scizor to work. It was only a ten minute walk now that they knew where it was, and Vincent was greeted with a bone-crushing hug once they arrived.

"Little Vincent! It has been too long since you last came by! And look at you now! A Kadabra, eh?"

Vincent grunted, but returned the hug. Yes, I'm a Kadabra now, Mary. And I'm sorry for not coming by before we left to tour Equestria.

Fredrick came out at the sounds from the front of his restaurant and caught sight of the small party of Pokemon before smiling. "Vincent, I thought you were back once Sam showed up, but it is still nice to see you again." His eyes then caught on Lucy, and his expression turned...the only word for it was seductive. "Oh, and who is this beauty you have brought back with you?"

The Lucario growled and hugged Vincent close before she responded. "Lucy, and I'm his girlfriend."

The griffon blinked before shrugging and dropping the look. "Fair enough. You got a cute one, Vincent."

Lucy blushed, while Vincent merely smirked. Indeed. And thank you for employing these two.

Fredrick sighed and rolled his eyes. "Mary is a pleasure to employ. Sam, not so much."

Ah. Big brother made a big mess? Can I ask you to take it easy on him, maybe let him try again?

The griffon hesitantly nodded. "One more chance. But if he trips up, he's being regulated to dishwasher."

Sam looked up from the podium he was stationed behind and saw a mixed party enter the diner. Not only Pokemon, but ponies as well, ones that resembled Zebstrika’s. What had Vincent called them? Ah yes, they were just zebras, that was it!

The new group, which consisted of three Pokemon and five zebras, entered in a militarized march of sorts. They kept close to themselves, with the zebras keeping their swords in eyesight. The zebra’s armor looked tough as nails. The Pokemon wore immaculate blue uniforms with Arceus’ symbol sewn into them. They kept a wary eye on everyone as though they feared an ambush. The Pokemon were as such: Two Linoones and a Loudred.

The Scizor smiled and made sure to keep his claws closed for the time being, so as not to be seen as threatening. “Hello, and welcome to Fredrick’s,” he said, thankful for Vincent’s communication link that made him understandable to things that weren’t Pokemon. “My name is Sam, and I will be your buffer between you and our chef.”

“I heard that!” Mary shouted from the kitchen.

“Will you be dining as one party?” Sam continued, acting as though the Sandslash had said nothing.

One of the zebras, who wore a much more elaborate uniform, nodded. “I think that would be best.” His voice made it sure that he was the leader of the group.

Sam nodded in turn and counted out eight menus before grabbing them gently in his left claw. With his right, he motioned for the party of zebras and Pokemon to follow him. It was only a short walk to to a perfectly round table with eight seats at it. “Will this do?”

“Most certainly,” the zebra said as they took a seat. “I will have to say that we don’t have such nice places in Zebrica. Can’t afford to have them.”

Sam grinned. “Well, I do hope you enjoy your time here. Can I start you off with something to drink while you peruse the menu?”

“PERUSE?!!!” the Loudred spoke up, making everything shake. “HE’S SPEAKING FANCY!!!”

“Private, inside voice,” the zebra in charge grunted, glaring at his subordinate. “Water will do.”

Sam nodded. “Fredrick will have that out in a moment.” He then rubbed the back of his head with one claw. “I’m...sort of clumsy, and not allowed to handle drinks anymore.”

The zebra chuckled. “I was too, once upon a time. I was able to get past that eventually. Of course, I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t, being a soldier and all.”

The Scizor nodded and walked towards the kitchen, exchanging a few words with the griffon there. “Eight waters for the party of zebras and Pokemon.”

“Zebras?” Fredrick was puzzled for a moment before shrugging. “Eh, while it’s unusual for them to leave their homeland, it’s no more unusual than it is for a griffon to leave. Eight, you said?”

Sam nodded, and Fredrick pulled the glasses off and began filling them. In nearly no time at all, they were ready, and a tray prepared. “Think you can handle this one?”

Sam blinked a few times before grinning. “I’ll try.”

The Scizor gently grabbed ahold of the tray and slowly walked towards the table. He made it without incident and placed it on the table, letting the ponies and Pokemon grab their own glasses. “How is it going with you lot?”

“The same as usual,” the zebra replied between sips. “Guarding the king, fighting monsters, avoiding death at every corner. Not a whole lot of peace back home. Glad I got on Commander Sev’s good side.” He took another sip of the water. “Water’s also cleaner...Huh? Strange thing that is.”

Sam shrugged. “So have you made your decision? If not, can I recommend a pizza? Mary’s quite good at them. Something about her sauce.”

“Pizza, pizza, pizza,” the Pokemon chanted.

The zebras looked...confused. “I have no idea what a pizza is, but it must be good.” The commanding zebra said. “Just put that under Sergeant First Class Perui.”

Sam nodded and made another suggestion. “While she does that, we do have some warm cheese breadsticks. Would you care to eat some of those in the time it takes for your pizza to cook?”

The zebra looked confused. “Okay, how much food do you guys have in this country? Pizza, cheese breadsticks? I’d be lucky to get some buttered hay back home.”

Sam laughed at that. “Mary’s the reason we have such a variety. She was a talented chef back on Earth, and she brought the recipes with her. So is that a yes?”

“Yes,” the officer grumbled. “Sorry about that outburst of mine. It’s just...we don’t have a lot of food period back home, so anything we can get is good in our books. A few of the ‘cheese breadsticks’ would be wonderful.”

Sam nodded again and went back to the kitchen, placing the order with the Sandslash. “A pony-friendly pizza that Pokemon would find palatable, and I’ll take this basket,” the Scizor said.

“On it,” Mary said. “Tell them twenty minutes, but I’ll try to have it done sooner.”

Sam nodded again and walked back to the table, placing the basket of breadsticks on it. “Here you are, and Mary says it’ll take twenty minutes for your food to be ready. Try not to fill up on these.”

The zebra’s jaw dropped. “Try not to fill up?....” He worked his jaw. “Never thought I’d hear that.” The other soldiers were too busy gobbling up the breadsticks to listen.

“Simple reason, ask the Pokemon. What happens if you fill up on the appetizer?”

“We don’t have appetizers in Zebrica. You should count yourself lucky to have a meal.”

Sam put a claw to his head and hummed. “Perhaps you should swing by my place later. Might be able to help with that. Anything else?”

“No,” the officer said, before taking a few bites out of a breadstick. “Strange but good.”

Sam nodded again and walked off, leaving the soldiers to themselves for the next twenty minutes.

Vincent and Lucy had parted ways not too long ago with a final hug, her going off to find a place to work, and him going off to find some large plant pots for the roof. They would, however, need more than that. They'd need the proper dirt as well for the Berries to grow in, and that was surprisingly difficult to find. While a fair few Earth Ponies had a connection to the earth, not all of them were gardeners or farmers by any stretch of the imagination. Those that were only knew what was right for their particular crop of choice. He would need to find someone adept in growing berries, then adapt that to the Berries Xerneas had dropped off.

By heavily abusing his ability to scan minds, he eventually found a pony who knew a thing or two about growing berry bushes, and managed to procure enough dirt for his plant pots of choice. He had to use quite a bit of strength to get both himself and all of the pots back home upright, but he'd rather suffer from a bit of a headache from improperly picking at the seal than have to clean up the roof from spilled dirt.

A quick Teleport later saw him near the utilities department of the city, the place where the water, gas, and electricity was managed. A quick round of back-and-forth got the Kadabra promises of a water tank for the roof being delivered, along with a crew of workponies to not only install it, but also the new piping that they'd require. It would, however, take a few days for the parts to be delivered. In the meantime, though, they'd get their pony who knew how to work on heaters out to his place today.

With nearly all of his tasks taken care of, the psychic returned to the lobby of the building he'd claimed as his home and reclined in a chair. And now we play the waiting game...

Sam walked back to the table, carrying out a steaming hot pizza sliced into eighths. “And here you are, one pony-friendly pizza!”

“Oi, Sam! Your shift is over!”

Sam sighed at that. “Oh really? Already?”

“Yeah,” the Sandslash shouted back. “Go home and hug little Vincent for me!”

“Will do. Will do.”

The group looked at each other. “Vincent?...As in Vincent Nurem?” the officer questioned aloud. The Scizor nodded absently before replying.

“Yeah, little Vincent Nurem. I know the kid. And he really needs help these days.”

They went silent. “Well, that was easy.” The Linoone said, blinking in confusion.

Sam blinked before shrugging. “Well, I have to go home. Kid’s running around ragged organizing things. Take care you lot, I’ll make sure Fredrick remembers to tell you where I live. Xerneas dropped off some Berries recently, you could take some back with you.”

Sam turned and walked off, humming all the while as he returned home. Vincent was there, arguing with a pony about what he wanted done to the heater and why he wanted it done in the first place. Upon his entry to the home, the Scizor saw the Kadabra pause in the arguing and turn to him with a smile. Sam, if you could? There are some pots of earth up on the roof that might just work for the Berries.

The Bug-Type nodded and moved to go upstairs. "I can try growing them. No promises. It's probably a good thing we have so many."

"Look, I'm just saying, I don't think there's a call for that much garlic in that sauce!"

With those words, the griffon was on the receiving end of one of the more powerful slaps that Mary could give. He was just lucky she'd made sure her claws were dull for it, otherwise blood would have been drawn. Fredrick walked out from the kitchen rubbing one claw over his other arm. “Sheesh, for a little Sandslash, she sure does hit hard. All I did was make a suggestion…”

He then perked up and took notice of the party of eight. “Oh, you must be the ones Sam was talking about! I am Fredrick, the manager of the building.”

At the very moment the zebras saw him, they all tensed. Zebras never seemed to have the best view of griffons, given the savage war a few hundred years ago. The zebra populace was apparently raised on acts of viciousness committed by his 'brethren'. They all kept their hooves near to the hilt of their swords. The Pokemon soldiers looked confused by their fellow soldier’s actions.

Fredrick noticed and waved a claw. “Oh pish posh. I know our kind don’t tend to get on, but I have a simple policy, one that’s proved useful for ponies, zebras, minotaurs, Pokemon, all sentient creatures. Live and let live. The past doesn’t define the present unless you refuse to learn from it.”

“As long as you don’t try to eat me, we’ll be fine.” One of the other zebra soldiers, a mare, spoke up. A slight snarl lit her face. Fredrick chuckled and winked at her before replying.

“So long as you don’t try biting me first, then we’re good.”

“You griffons always draw first blood,” the mare grumbled. Fredrick chuckled, low in his throat, before replying.

“My dear, I don’t bite unless you want me to. Though I don’t imagine ponies like it rough…”

“I feel like I’m missing something,” the mare looked to her comrades in confusion. They didn’t seem to want to get in the middle of it. “Don’t ignore me.”

“Ah, nobody had a talk with you about the birds and the bees?” The griffon merely shook his head. “So tragic, and at your age!”

“The birds and the bees?” The mare stopped to think, before her eyes widened. “Wait, that’s that Equestrian saying for….” She scowled. “Oh you’d like that, wouldn’t you overgrown chicken.”

“Only if you’re offering,” he shot back. “I make no distinctions, especially for unappreciated beauty. Always did like a female in uniform as well. And I’ve had no complaints as long as I watched my claws on a female’s more sensitive regions.”

The mare sputtered, blushing a deep crimson. “You...I...Ugh.” She drew her sword. “Sh-shut up. I’ve got a weapon.”

“Pulling out the big guns already?” The griffon waggled his eyebrows, completely shameless. “If you wanted to be in control, you could just ask. I have an outfit that’d fit you just fine.”

“Whatever outfit you’re talking about surely isn’t meant for an officer of his majesty’s service,” the mare shot back, still blushing.

“True,” the griffon conceded. “I mean, unless you like to proclaim that you’re a Dom outside of the bedroom. More than one mare has looked very arousing in it, though.”

“Dom?” The mare looked perplexed. “Okay, do you Equestrians like just making things up? I don’t know what the hay you are all on about half the time...And I am not arousing!”

The griffon gave her form a critical eye before replying. “I disagree. Perhaps it’s the cultural taboo, but there is something about a zebra that sings to my blood. Especially the thought of laying with one. Add in the mare in uniform bit, along with the fact that because of you being in an armed force, you take good care of yourself, and well...it’s only because we’re in public I’m restraining myself from being even more lewd.”

The mare sputtered, unsure of how to respond. Fredrick leaned in a little closer and whispered in her ear. “And Dom means Dominatrix. One who controls how any encounters happen, and ‘punish’ the other party for being ‘naughty’. Often times in very...very painfully exciting ways. Is that the reason you pulled a sword, to take control from the start?”

She answered by putting her sword next to his neck. “Maybe, but I don’t think you want to find out, chicken.” She whispered back.

“Oh no, I really would,” he whispered back. “After all, I was born here. My parents flew here long ago, tired of the conflict, and they taught me my values. I get along with anyone and everyone, even Zebras. Yes, our two races have a long history, but I’ve no part of it. You’d not be the first Zebra I’ve lain with, though if you want, you could be the latest.”

“Latest? We zebra mares don’t just throw ourselves at every male. Do you take me for a harlot?” Her sword flexed dangerously close to his skin.

“I take you for a very arousing and interesting mare, one that doesn’t seem to know what she does to those that can appreciate said beauty. And I would love to show you a good time, be it sexual or non. Entirely up to you.” Fredrick was seemingly unconcerned with the sword on his neck; if she did anything, he had friends to avenge him. Though he hoped it didn’t come to that.

“I think that would be a good idea,” the officer said, much to the mare’s dismay. “We do need someone with more intimate knowledge of this city. Isn’t that right, Corporal Elire?”

“Yes sir,” Elire grunted. She pulled her sword away, but kept her glare on the griffon. “You got lucky, but if you try something, I’ll show you how I killed those Hyena Dogs back in my home country.”

“Well with a statement like that,” Fredrick said with a sigh, “Then I guess I can forego kissing your hoof, whispering sweet nothings in your ear, and giving you a tour of the city. Pity, zebras come through so rarely. Ah well.” He turned to leave at that, mentally counting back from five. Five, four, three, two...

“Corporal,” he heard.

“Fine,” Elire got up from her seat, sheathed her sword, and trotted over to the griffon. She held up her hoof. “You can bleeding kiss it. Just take me out for this tour already.”

Fredrick smirked and grabbed a hold of her hoof with one claw, bringing his beak down and gently kissing it. While he did so, he made sure to run his talons gently through her leg fur, letting her feel his claws run along the skin ever so softly. “Elire. A beautiful name for a beautiful zebra mare. It just rolls off the tongue. As is my custom, I will permit you to ask any question of me, which I will answer honestly, as long as you do so in kind for myself.”

Elire glared at him through a thick blush. She scrunched up her muzzle. “Any question?”

“Any at all, dear Elire,” Fredrick nearly purred. The difficult ones were always more rewarding when they gave in. Plus, he had a very specific set of questions in mind to ask her. He hoped she took the bait.

Elire glanced at her commanding officer, who nodded. She turned attention back to the griffon. “So….you like zebras, huh?”

“I like all walks of life, it’s just how I was raised,” Fredrick replied. “I was taught to judge others by who they were, not what. Even had a zebra godfather growing up. Called him Uncle Nenny. Nenwef never got tired of me cawing his name.” He then grinned sharkishly. “My turn. Why do you automatically assume the worst of me when the largest weapon I could conceivably have, a kitchen knife, wouldn’t do anything to your armor, even if I walked out with it?”

Elire scowled. “Because we zebras still remember the war. Jordan belongs in Zebrican hooves.”

Fredrick merely smiled. “Ah. But that is there. That is then. That is not here, that is not now. To assume the worst of every griffon you meet because of Jordan is to discriminate and hate them merely because they have beaks. I will agree that there are some truly barbaric members of my species, and should you be called to fight against my supposed ‘homeland’, I will not begrudge you for it. But until then, you really should stop being so speciest. You’ll alienate what few good griffons there are by that behavior.”

“Bah,” Elire scoffed. “A griffon nearly cut off my head not but a few days ago. Not to mention killed half my regiment on their claws, beaks, and swords….Of course, you aren’t as ‘evil’ looking as those guys.”

“Indeed not. I even keep my claws dull. See?” The griffon displayed his other hand, claws up and barely reflecting any light. “Besides, I already told you. Equestria-born, raised to be accepting of all walks of life. All and any meat I serve here, I make sure to obtain the proper documentation for. But I do believe it was your turn.”

Elire thought for a second before speaking up. “You seemed rather calm when I put my sword to your neck. Is Equestria that dangerous?”

Fredrick smirked at that. “No, I just knew you wouldn’t do anything. Murder wouldn’t look too good, reflected back at the Zebra empire. Especially on Equestrian soil. So much as a drop spilled, Mary would hear me cry, run to find Sam, and then Vincent would come by in a flash. And he would see to it you never left in your right mind.”

Elire grit her teeth. “I am a soldier of his majesty’s army. I can take whatever you throw at me, be it spells or spears.”

The griffon cast his eyes over to the Pokemon and asked, rather loudly. “Would you be able to hold off a Kadabra, trained to hone his heart and mind to be fine weapons? I doubt it. Vincent likes me for both housing Mary and employing two of his friends. I am protected by extension, and I know this.”

“Oh,” Elire snorted. “So what you’re saying is that a little mare like me can’t handle stuff like this ‘Kadabra’ on her own? Or are you saying I wouldn’t have a choice but to go out with you?”

“Oh no, if you desire not to see me again, that’s your prerogative,” the griffon said with a wave of his claw. “I merely know that any who harm me will be rendered mindless until they’re brought to the Guard by Vincent. I am an Equestrian citizen first and foremost. Born and raised. Though if you think you actually could take a Kadabra, just look at your Pokemon allies and ask that question.”

“NOPE!” The Loudred threw up his arms and ran out. “NOPE! NOPE!” Before coming back and taking the pizza and then running out.

“Coward!” the commanding zebra screamed at his soldier. “You were not dismissed, Private!”

Elire sighed. “Your question.”

Fredrick hummed. “While there are so many questions I could ask that would put a blush on your face, I think...yes. Has anyone ever actually told you you’re beautiful before me?”

Elire did indeed blush and looked away. “No. Never really mattered back home. It was just survival...though I’m glad I didn’t get spotted by one of those bratty nobles.” She shivered at that thought. “I don’t know what would have happened then.”

“A mare like you? You’d either find a way out of it, or have his privates in a jar to display to any other would-be suitors. Nobles. Bah,” Here the griffon waved dismissively. “They forget the word has more than one meaning. It is your deeds, not your blood, that defines you.”

Elire chuckled. “Yeah,” she stopped to think about her question. “How did you get involved with these Pokemon?”

“Ah. Mary showed up on my doorstep one day and refused to leave. I almost kicked her out of my kitchen, but then noticed she seemed to be making a red sauce. Once I tasted it, I knew I had to have her in my kitchen, and I haven’t regretted it since. Vincent and Sam showed up a few days later, and the three of them acted like old friends. The two of them only recently got back from some sort of tour around Equestria. Was quite a surprise to see the Scyther and Abra I knew now a Kadabra, Scizor, and accompanied by a Lucario as well.”

“It’s a good thing you didn’t throw me out,” came from the kitchen. “Your definition of a white sauce is something my grandmother would not spit on!”

Fredrick sighed. “And some days I think that setting up one of Vincent’s links would be both a bane and a boon. I can’t understand her, but I just know that statement was derogatory.”

“She hates your white sauce,” Elire answered. “Yeah, we got little ‘psychic chips’ in our heads to understand Pokemon. Helps with organizing the new mixed army. You can’t have half of it unable to talk with the other.”

Fredrick’s eyes widened at that. “Would only that Vincent knew how to do it. He claims his current version is something he focuses on in the background to burn power off. If he knew how to simply enable translation, all of Las Pegasus would be over their issues by now!”

“Yeah,” Elire said. “But I do have to warn you. That Gardevoir who did it was quite creepy...Also, he didn’t like it when people called him a she. I have no idea why they kept doing that. Mostly Pokemon, or those ‘human’...Pokemon. Still unsure of that one.”

“Maybe just let him look at your heads, then,” Fredrick suggested. “He might be able to recreate it by examining it. My question, I believe. Do you truly hate all griffons?”

“Never met any griffons until a few days ago,” Elire gave him a deadpanned gaze. “And all of those guys were all ‘Blood for Ragnoros’ and all that. And you are flirting with a mare on duty. Not exactly the best thing to do.”

“Ah,” the griffon said slyly. “But the ones you did meet would not dare to flirt with a dangerous mare, they would rather kill her for their supposed god. I do hope your initial meeting has not soured your opinion of all griffons, otherwise I am wasting my time talking to this vision of beauty.”

“Wasting your time?” Elire glared at him. “I am not a waste of time, chicken.”

“I am wasting mine if you think me not worth yours,” he riposted. “If you think that no matter what I do, I will never be of interest to you, then yes, I am wasting my time. For under that wonderful exterior would lie a heart of stone that I could never bring any amount of joy to. So answer me truly: do you hate all griffons?”

“Heart of stone?” Elire grit her teeth. “Okay pal,” she poked his chest. “I’ll answer it now. No I don’t hate ‘all griffons’. That’s just stupid. I’m not going to hate some little chick or something like that...and don’t you think this is going to stop me from getting back at you for calling my heart like stone. Just for that, I am going to prove you wrong. I’ll let you take me out and all that. Whatever you want. Prove to me that griffons can be gentle. Prove to me that they are actually nice and I’ll prove my heart is much softer than stone.”

“Magnificent!” If Celestia herself were in the room, she would be the only thing capable of outshining the beaming griffon. “But I do believe it is your question, my date. That is, if you wish to continue this game of back and forth.”

Elire gulped, just realizing she just roped herself into a date with a griffon. “Fine...by any chance, would you know where Vincent Nurem lives? We have...an urgent need to know.”

“Little Vincent?” Fredrick hummed and put one claw to his beak. “Yes...He, Sam, and Lucy all live in the same apartment. Said he had a plan for it, now that the ponies have fled until after the World Conference. Would make working on and in it easier, he claimed. Two blocks south, then five east. It’s known as the Ricardo building, though he and the pony landlord were going to rename it when the work was done.”

Without a moment’s hesitation, the other soldiers arose from the table and made their way to the door. “Thank you for the information, civilian.” the officer said. He glanced at Elire. “Keep an eye on him.”

“Bucking hay,” Elire scowled as she watched him go. “Plothole.” She shifted nervously on her hooves, being left alone in unfamiliar territory. Her body was tense and her tail kept brushing along her scabbard. The feeling of the griffon’s claws on her neck caused her to look back at him, and his eyes sparked with mischief.

“My question. Where shall we start our day on the town? I can close up early for a mare like yourself.”

“As long as it’s not a bedroom, I’m fine.” Elire grumbled, blushing a little at the contact.

“Never!” Fredrick started. “If that is a destination, it should be a final one. You’re in control, and should you say ‘no’, I’ll listen. Though, keep in mind, you’d best be specific, otherwise our day together ends early, before I can show you all the pleasures Las Pegasus has to offer.”

“I dunno,” Elire shrugged. “Maybe a good bar? That’s pretty much the only place I really go anyways. We don’t have really that much of what you call ‘attractive places’ in Zebrica.”

“A fault of my supposed ‘kinsmen’, I take it?”

“Nah, we’re not exactly the richest country in the world….Okay, we’re not exactly rich...Okay, we’re not exactly anything really. I make less bits in a week than your guardsponies do in a day.”

“Then dear zebra,” Fredrick said as he held the front door open for her and slightly bowed his head. “Allow me to show you why I love this town. Mary! I’m going out on a date! Close up and behave yourself!”

“Try to not be a total you on the date! This one sounds like a keeper! You don’t need to go scaring her off with your stories of past dates and why they didn’t end well!” came from the kitchen.

Elire laughed. “Oh, I like her.”

The griffon merely grumbled. “I’m glad someone gets along with her. Someone who can understand her, anyways.”

“I heard that!”

Vincent looked the pony up and down and sighed. You’re sure you can’t do it for cheaper?

“Mnope,” the pony replied. “You want to modify that furnace so that it can get up to those temperatures, it’s gonna cost you. Especially because I have to talk to the grid and let them know of the increased demands from this building. A portion of what you pay me is going to go to them, to help pay for the first month.”

Oh, is that all? Vincent’s ears perked. We’re actually going to provide for such extremes ourselves, no increase required.

The pony stuttered a bit, and the psychic smirked. So, how much cheaper is the modification now?

The stallion grumbled, but eventually relented. “Yeah, you just saved two hundred bits.”

Fantastic! With a flash, the pony’s fee was before him, and he sat himself down, using his hooves to separate the stacks of coins and count them. I believe you’ll find this to be in order, good sir.

Eventually the Earth Pony nodded and put the bits in his saddlebag. “Yeah, I can have those parts here in a day for this price, and installed before nightfall. You’ll be here?”

I don’t plan to go anywhere else until this plan is done, so no.

The stallion nodded and made for the front door. “Take care then, mister Vincent. I wish you the best of luck in this plan of yours. It’ll be an interesting study if it works, especially here!”

Oh, I hope so!

A moment passed in blissful silence as the Psychic organized his plan ‘out loud’. Furnace, check. Generator, already seen to. Must see someone about the possibility of air conditioning, I do not want to spend any time in this city without it, especially in summer. The modifications to this building are nearly done to make it comply with some of Earth’s standards, and afterwards...afterwards comes the greatest ‘experiment’ of all, doesn’t it?...

Breaking his train of thought, was a Machamp, wearing a blue uniform, smashing through the building’s wall right next to the door. “OH YEAH!”

Vincent stared for a moment before replying. Well, now I see why ponies have such a low opinion of Pokemon. His right hand lit up with a blue glow, and the Machamp suddenly found himself restrained by a similar glow around his legs. Now, mind telling me why you destroyed that wall when there was a perfectly good door there?

Just then, a little Kirlia wearing a similar uniform, walked in through the front door. “Because reasons...Really, really stupid reasons.”

...Okay, fair enough. ‘Reasons’ seems to be the answer to a lot of the questions we have these days. You know him?

“Not really,” the little Kirlia shrugged. “He’s just one of our soldiers...and why aren’t you talking with your mouth?”

I prefer to burn off my power rather than risk headaches in those closest to me, or have clocks running backwards, or have delicate machinery be fried. A Kadabra is a dangerous thing, and I strive to not be. Why are you here?

“We’re here for Vincent Nurem,” the Kirlia beamed. “We’re here to bring him to justice...Do you know where he is?”

Here Vincent laughed a few times and rubbed the back of his head with his free hand. Eheh...yeah, that’s me. Is this about that casino? Or that other casino? Or even the other, other casino? Cause I could have sworn me and Ace had made up about those.

“Nope,” the Kirlia shook her head. “You’re a Nurem, that’s why we’ve got to stop you….You aren’t experimenting or anything are you? That would make this so much easier if you weren’t a mad scientist.”

Well we are running a new social experiment here, trying to get a building to run purely on poke-power, get the ponies to accept...wait. What did you say? The Kadabra looked fully at the Kirlia, his eyes wide. Is...is my last name the reason you’re here?

“W-w-well,” the Kirlia muttered, a little scared of the older, bigger Kadabra staring at her like that. “Yeah.”

“Do we need more justification, human?” In slithered a large Seviper. He sneered at Vincent. “I had hoped I was wrong, but here you are.” An edge hit his voice. “Scaring my little sister. Oh how appropriate for one such as you.”

The Kadabra screwed his eyes shut as he realized why they were here. His memories bubbled to the surface, and he felt his powers respond. You dare. You dare accuse and lay all that blame at my feet.

“I dare where others will not,” the Seviper answered, putting himself in between his sister and Vincent. “I dare fate and the very universe for I am Commander Sev, leader of the Pokemon Liberation Army. I dare to stand up for our kind in the face of scientists who would shred us into pieces for amusement.”

YOU DARE! IN MY HOUSE?! Vincent had snapped his eyes open, and his entire form glowed blue. You dare to do this in MY HOME, MY SANCTUM? YOU DARE BRING THAT BLAME HERE?!

Sev blinked in confusion. “Yes, I do dare. I made that perfectly clear. No need to shout, geez.” He rubbed his ears. “And I thought Explouds were bad.”

Oh really? Well it’s about to get a whole lot worse! With that, his Twisted Spoon appeared in Vincent’s hand with a flash, and he brought it to his head. Anything you want to say before I do this? I’ll be sporting and give you a moment to speak your mind.

Sev’s mouth hung open for a bit, before he began to question the air as though expecting an answer. “Is he always like this? I mean, I haven’t even begun my rant. Usually it goes on a little longer with some witty banter before we come to blows, but this. Amateur kid.” The Seviper returned his gaze to Vincent. “You need to work on this aggression. I mean, you don’t even know me, I barely got here and I haven’t even done anything except order one of my soldiers to break through that wall.”

“With an unlocked door beside it,” the Kirlia chipped in.

“How was I to know?” Sev shot back.

“You could try the handle,” she crossed her arms.

“I never try the handle,” Sev scoffed. “Unless I know it to be safe.”

“Your definition of safe isn’t exactly safe, big brother.”

“My safe is the safest safe that has ever been safe,” Sev rolled his eyes and looked at the watch. “And oh look, it’s half past five. Glorious. Nurem’s son has wasted my day.”

I’VE wasted YOUR day? I’VE done NOTHING! I’M going to have to pay to fix that wall, and I’m sick and tired of the reactions to my last name! Let me show you who and what you’re dealing with, if only so you’ll sit down, shut up, and listen to MY story, and not HIS! Releasing psychic seal!

In Vincent's mind, his Kadabra self looked up at a large, wooden door with a key already in the lock. With a flick of his will, the key was turned, the door opened fully. The seal was broken, the power he'd accrued under Xavier's training free to flow once more.

It took a form, molded itself to resemble an Alakazam, and looked down at Vincent. "Why have you undone the seal? To win a fight with a Poison-type?"

"No," Vincent said, "To win every fight against this Poison-type. To make him realize that there is no fight. To make him realize I am in charge in this house, and that I am not the Doctor. He will listen to me if I hold my true strength."

The form nodded and dissolved into glowing blue motes, merging with Vincent and leaving a faint voice behind. "A fine reason indeed..."

With that, the Kadabra emitted a pulse of blue light, and a very familiar sensation crept up the spines of those present, especially Sev’s. It was the sensation of being in the same room as an Alakazam in all its power, and sparks of blue energy danced around Vincent’s frame.

Commander Sev instantly coiled up as if to strike. His tail gently moved his little sister backwards. “Stop this, young one. Stop this at once. I will not stand for this.”

Oh that’s funny. See, you’re not in control anymore. I am. And I will not stand for quite a few things. Vincent counted them off, causing glowing blue numbers to float in the air. I will not stand for the way Las Pegasus treats Pokemon. I will not stand for my home and property being damaged. I will not stand for any harm to my loved ones. And I WILL NOT STAND for being blamed for fifteen years of HELL! I AM NOT MY FATHER, I AM NOT THE DOCTOR!

“First of all, that is one wall, counting one wall,” Sev scoffed. “You make it out as if that is something to really get angry about. My mother never whined when I broke through a wall.”

“Yes she did,” the Kirlia pointed out from behind the snake.

“I was trying to make a point that would get to him,” Sev explained. “But it was never ‘I am da ultimate warrior’ or whatever you are trying to do. Second, I know you aren’t your father. I came here to stop you from being him. Very big difference.”

Oh, he did that for you already! What do you know of his very first experiment? Cause I had to have audio files dug up and recited to me, so I know it. But I want to know if you do! Go on, share with me what you know of the horrors of Doctor Nurem! I bet I can beat you!~

“I barely even know the guy,” Sev said honestly. “I heard he was some scientist or something from Doctor Raziel. Raziel seemed quite taken with Nurem’s work, so I figure he must have been pretty bad. Though I doubt he was ‘Raziel’ bad.” He shivered a little. “I am so glad we killed him.”

Then I’ll say this: Rupert Nurem’s first experiment was genius! Inspired! A work of art! ...Or it would have been, had it actually worked. He attempted to bridge the gap between humanity and Pokemon by genetic manipulation. He hoped to give humans Pokemon DNA and Pokemon powers.

Sev’s fangs bared, flexing on their own accord. “An affront to Arceus! He will be shredded by my blade...Once I get Giratina to open the portal back there.”

“He won’t,” the Kirlia muttered.

Oh I agreed with you wholeheartedly! See, he didn’t know it at the time, but only a Legendary can do as such. However, thirty-six volunteers, hale of mind and body, still lined up to be treated. Rupert’s motives were noble. He wanted to not only bridge the gap, but help his ailing, comatose mother who could not be moved from her hospital bed. He gambled based on what he knew and what he could do. And five months after the experiment started, he did the unthinkable. Guess!~

“Let’s see,” Sev tapped his chin. “Unthinkable? Scientist. Unthinkable. Scientist….He became a Twilight fan.”

More easily forgiven that what he did. He decided to expose his one-month-old son to the same treatment.

“His child?” Sev seethed in rage. “He dared to experiment on his child!” His tail lashed at the ground. “ALL OF MY HATE!”

I agree again. Once the child and the test subjects both showed no signs of rejection, Rupert treated his mother at the six month mark for the original test subjects. And that was when it all went to hell, because the test subjects tore themselves apart during the rejection, which set in that very night. He had unwittingly damned his own son and mother to a similar fate.

“He sounds incompetent,” Sev scoffed. “A threat he would not be. At least Doctor Raziel had ‘results’ from his experiments….though they tended to be extremely deadly. To everyone really, but he never really cared. As long as he got results, he didn’t care how many of his men were slaughtered. Hell, I have footage of him gleefully looking over some of his soldier’s corpses because it proved how dangerous his top experiment ‘Roa’ was.”

Ah ta ta! Vincent waved a hand back and forth. I’m talking about Rupert Nurem, not Doctor Nurem. The two are different beasts, and I’ll tell you how one became the other, maybe. But yes. Five months later, Rupert noticed a curious thing. The child, which by all rights should be dead by now...wasn’t. Showed no signs of it, while his mother wasted away during the initial throes of rejection. He tried his damndest to get a reason as to why the boy yet lived, but ran out of time before his mother died. Undeterred, he gave the boy the title of ‘Subject Thirty-Seven’ and began his life of science, away from all others, in earnest.

Vincent then smiled and mockingly held out one hand towards the Seviper. Hello, I’m Vincent Nurem, also known as Subject Thirty-Seven. How the hell have YOUR last fifteen years been? Cause my father eventually became the Doctor that yours so looked up to, and when he did, he tried to torture ‘my latent powers’ out of me in OH so many ways!

Sev frowned. “You think you are the only one with a terrible father? You think you are the only one who has suffered. How utterly selfish of you, boy. I am Commander Sev, son of Command Viper. The same commander who hated humans with such a passion he led an army to an island and butchered all the humans there. The same commander who raised me, beat me, made me into the commander I am today. Do not mock me with your woes. You had a hard life, but have you ever lost your friends?”

Eight hundred and fourteen, Vincent interjected. Eight hundred...and fourteen. Eight hundred and fifty one unique test subjects were forced into those halls. Thirty seven lived. Five escaped. Eight hundred...and fourteen dead. And while some of the memories are blocked or half-formed, I have this horrible, terrible sensation that should I ever Evolve again...I’ll see them all pass before me.

“You blocked the memories of your dead?” Sev hissed in anger. “Never. I would never block them out. I would never block out the memories of Sharp, who bravely blew himself up to destroy an aircraft carrier from Team Rocket, or Hound...my best friend, who I ordered to defend a position….that didn’t need defending! He did it anyway because he was my friend. And you know what happened? They ran a bloody tank over his body! I remember each and every face of my soldiers. I remember their wants, desires, EVERYTHING! NEVER FORGET, FOR THAT MEANS THEY DIED FOR NOTHING! FIGHT ON!”

The Kirlia quickly rubbed Sev's side, calming the thrashing snake. “Calm down, big brother. It’s over.”

I didn’t do it on purpose, it happened because I couldn’t bear to look. What fifteen-year-old kid wants to remember every single mutilation he’s been forced to watch in the name of ‘science’? So I remember their species, their experiment number, and the short time I had with each one...before I move on to the next. And the ones I do remember, I would not wish on anyone. An Ekans with his lower jaw melted off because of his own poison sacs being modified...a Bulbasaur slowly withering and dying because his plant was removed...a wingless Charizard being shocked to death during his escape attempt, because it was thought without his wings, he would no longer be a Flying type… The Kadabra trailed off as a tear fell down his cheek. I don’t forget them totally. Just how the most terrible deaths happened.

Sev was silent in confusion….before he spoke. “Was he high? No seriously, he sounds high to even think that taking a Charizard’s wings makes him not a Flying type. How the hell did he even become a doctor? Are the humans just handing them out like candy...I will never understand them.”

Type modification was one of his less successful areas of study. Mostly because he used physical manipulation to try and achieve that. And you...you dare think that just because I have his blood that I could ever be anything like him. Vincent glared at Sev before looking away. Y’know what? I...just no. Reform psychic seal.

The Kadabra stopped glowing, and the pressure in the room eased up a notch before he looked back at the snake. Actions, not your lineage, makes you who you are. Deeds are what define you, not blood. And I am tired of dealing with you. I try to make a home here for Pokemon so that we can show Las Pegasus that we can co-exist, and you break into it and denounce my bloodline. Just...go. I never want to see you or your soldiers again.

“You think to tell me what to do?” Sev’s tone wasn’t angry, just curious.

I think people tell you what to do all the time, you just never listen. So open up your ears and hear these words: You are not welcome here, nor will you ever be, because of what you have done. Return, and I will eject you forcibly and KEEP you there until I can get a damn RESTRAINING order!

Sev was silent for a moment. He just studied Vincent, looking him over, before he started laughing. I mean, laughing hard. “Your spirit, human. That is what I wanted to see. You think I do not already know this lesson? HA! My father was terrible. I took his position, but I am not him. I may have had assumptions, but I see you are no scientist. I merely wanted to see with my own eyes.”

“And the door?” Lia asked.

“I thought he would need a bigger one,” Sev grinned. “You should thank me, Vincent. I have solved that issue for you. Though, I would suggest having a better reason for a restraining order than a hole in the wall and some unpleasant words. I have quite a few companions who have done so much worse. You’re lucky I didn’t bring Rio with me. He would have trashed this place solely for the hell of it.” He laughed again.

When I was an Abra, I was trained by a Gallade, Luke. He was a victim of the worst sort, but as he said, trauma forges the strongest swords. Recently I was trained by a Metagross, and I learned his tricks. Had I truly wanted to harm you, Sev, I would have locked you in your own mind until you died of old age. But I learned something important from a lot of people. Power isn’t having strength. True power is having strength...and knowing when not to use it.

“Huh,” Sev thought for a moment. “My master says that all the time. I have no idea why. Seems kind of pointless when it is best to hit your enemies hard and fast...and you could have tried, Vincent. I have had an Alakazam try and pilfer my mind. He got nothing from me!...and I’m perfectly fine...Fine…” He huffed.

Pilfering and locking you in a illusion that life is going on with you are two separate things. And the reason behind the saying is simple. Yes, you could use strength to slay a foe. Power is not doing so and making peace with them, turning them to your side. Power is withholding your strength, using it only when absolutely necessary. Vincent seemed to wobble a bit at that. And now that I’ve both unleashed and reshackled my true strength, I know its meaning in full. Just...go. I have memories to cry over. A wall to fix. And I have to deal with the fact that there are people and Pokemon like YOU in this world. A shame I’ve not tried any alcohol yet, I could use some, I think. You broke into the first place I could consider ‘safe’ since Earth and dare to think yourself the moral victor. Congrats, bully. You win, I’m broken.

The Kirlia frowned and walked up to Vincent. She just stared at him for a few seconds before hugging him. Of course, she couldn’t wrap her arms all the way around him given her size. “Nope, you aren’t broken and you don’t have to cry. You can get through hard times...I did and I’m younger than you, mister Vincent. If someone like me can pull through, so can you...and don’t mind my big brother. He’s not really a big meanie, he just seems like it.”

“Not a big meanie,” Sev huffed.

Vincent awkwardly embraced the Kirlia. I...I could get through this easier, were Lucy or Sam here, but Lucy’s looking for a job, and Sam is supervising the Berries up top that Xerneas dropped off, he won’t be down for a while yet. I have a family to help me, they’re just not here right now. So...thanks for the sentiment, but I still have the dead to mourn.

“Then why are you frowning?” she asked, curious. “I know a lot of Pokemon who are dead, but I still smile. They wouldn’t want you to frown. My mommy says the best way to mourn is to be happy and live your life to fullest, because friends and family don’t like to see us mope.”

The Kadabra sighed and shook his head. I might get to the point where I can mourn them with a smile, but...it’s still so fresh for me. This sense of freedom. And two weeks and change is barely enough time to come to terms with that. Plus I’m remembering more and more as the days go by. Every day, another one flashes before me. At least. I could always understand Pokemon, thanks to what he did. I...I could always hear their screams…

Vincent shook his head again and released the smaller psychic before turning towards the stairs. You all can show yourselves out. I’m tired. Tired of you, tired because of you, and tired of dealing with you. You’re hardly any better than the ponies. You judged me on what I was, not what I’ve done. And words never can make up for deeds in my book.

The Kirlia sniffled. “You hate me? Just...just because of a wall? My big brother just wanted to help and he didn’t know and you hate me? Hate him? You’re being a big meanie.” She wiped away a few tears. “You aren’t the only one who suffered. You think we’re bad or something? Then look at my brother! He risks his life for others. He saved me when I was kidnapped a few days ago. They hurt me, they beat me, they made me feel terrible, but my big brother rescued me. You can’t hate him.”

Vincent turned back around and gently wiped away some of her tears. Little one, I can’t hate you. You didn’t do anything wrong, and you even stuck up for your ‘brother.’ I don’t even hate him or his men, but I can’t forgive him so long as they proffer simple words to make up for their deeds. Had I wanted a larger door, I would have paid a pony to come and do it properly. Both because I don’t know if such a thing MUST be done properly, and because I want to build a better relationship between us and the ponies. No, I don’t hate you. Or him. But I do strongly dislike him for what he’s had done and what he did because of my name. And until he can make up for it, I don’t want to see him or his men again. You...you can come back if you want.

“But...but he’s always like this,” the Kirlia sniffled. “He can’t help it. He’s my big brother. I love him, even though he’s broken. You could tell that if you looked at his mind...It’s so shattered. That Alakazam broke him...and he’s...I’m sorry.” She hugged Vincent again, burying her crying face into him. “We’ll fix the wall. We’ll make it up to you. We didn’t know.”

Vincent gently held the Kirlia while looking at Sev. Do you truly care for her and still know absolute right from absolute wrong?

“Do I care?” Sev snarled. “You think I do not love my family? Wrong. I love my family more than anything. I would gladly put myself on a pike then let something happen to them. That is not up for debate.”

...Then we aren’t so different after all. Lucy Evolved when I said that I would do anything for my family, damn the rules, laws, and morals. And there’s a disturbing trend that I think you should know, mister Seviper.

“What is it? Are Taco stands becoming unpopular? Are they going out of business?” Sev looked frantic. “NOOOOO!”

Worse than that. Similar words I have heard, but not from you. Resolve of such caliber was shared by Rupert Nurem as well. He who would become the Doctor. He swore to do anything to save his mother, damn the rules.

“Well it’s a good thing I don’t science,” Sev grinned. “I leave that up to my scientists...who do scientist things….like build giant catapults so I may taunt Rayquaza into doing my bidding. One day he will listen...or get hit by my exploding boulders...whichever comes first.”

Not the point, Vincent said. Resolve like ours can inflame us to great deeds, mighty or terrible, things that can change the earth. But stray but a little, and good and evil no longer matter, only the deed itself. Do not become like the men you hate. Hold true to the laws and rules...and your family. Never lose your heart, or else they will win in the end.

Vincent released the smaller Psychic and nodded at the Pokemon in the lobby. One chance. I give you all one. Chance. Don’t make me regret it, or by Arceus, I will GO to his home and ask that Xerneas come back with me to keep watch for you all and stop you from returning.

“I can go for one more chance…..” Sev paused. “I forget your name.”

“Vincent Nurem,” the Kirlia grumbled.

“Oh yeah….Oh yeah. Sorry, names can be a bit tricky for me since….” Sev hummed. “Yeah, since that one incident that I intend to ignore. So……...Nice mustache.”

Vincent gave off a weak laugh. Yeah. Fifteen and facial hair. Whatta world. He then yawned and when he next spoke… “Well, I’m tired. Sam’s coming down with a few Berries for your zebra friends, and I really need to rest. Like I said. One chance, you lot.”

“Except for Lia,” Sev proclaimed. “She shall have...a much higher number that I’m too busy to count to…..You know, this was quite anti-climactic. I was expecting an epic fight or something...a bit jipped, but I did get to finally eat at a Tacobelle, so it wasn’t all bad. You would make a fine carpenter…”

“Negotiator,” Lia put in.

“Negotiator in my army,” Sev smiled and shooed him on. “But you can think on that later. For now, rest young one. You need it for tomorrow will be more grandiose...well, hopefully. By the way, if you ever see Palkia, tell him it was I who stole his cake!” Sev laughed and shot out the door. “SOLDIERS! FIX THAT WALL!...and make it metal. Something bulletproof.”

“They don’t have guns here, big brother.” Lia shouted out to him.

“Then make it shoot lazers!” Sev shouted back.

“...Little one, I regret giving him a chance already.” Vincent stated.

Lia giggled. “He’ll grow on you. He does so for everyone. He’s a big softie on the inside.”

“I WILL COVER THE STREETS WITH YOUR ENTRAILS!”

“Yeah, he says stuff like that all the time,” Lia sheepishly grinned.

Vincent blinked slowly before sighing. “Not...gonna ask. Too tired right now. Can’t brain properly. Going up to nap. Say hi to Sam for me.”

Author's Other Notes:
Let me just pull up what I can of Fredrick's backstory here...
"Mother taught him to respect and appreciate females, Father taught him honor, his godfather Nenwef helped him hammer home respect for all walks of life...and when he grew into an adolescent, he picked up lessons in seduction. Nearly every lesson of seduction. There isn't a species he hasn't had in his bed. He does have a few rules, though. No taken females, no means no, and nobody too young. Other than that..."
Now if you'll pardon me, I have some tags to add before I add the second half...