Union League: Journey to the Beginning

Character Disclaimer: Rift Reyvon, Myu Zodel, Strider Kolos, and their significant Pokémon character models (ex: Ki’alla, Sage, etc.) are my creations. Draco Falconi belongs to his namesake. Rai Meir belongs to Kimberly Weber, an acquaintance of Draco and myself. Slash and Psymakio belong to Slash Firestorm. All significant Pokémon characters of the before mention characters belong to each individual respectively.

First and foremost, I’d like to thank Imasuky Lomae, RoboRed, Shika T, and ULR for dropping by and taking the time to review the first chapter. It really means a lot, thanks! If you think the first chapter was captivating, then you will definitely like the rest of the story! Now, as to when Slash and Psymakio will show up…not to worry! They should be making an appearance soon. How soon, I won’t say…but I am eager to see them appear myself! I already have made a slight reference to them, but nothing highly specific ^_^

There is one important thing I wish to mention right now before people look at it the wrong way. Although Draco does have his own character in the story, this is not a self-insertion story! The character being used is an alternate to his main alias. That is to say, it’s a different version all together. Oh, and no…he isn’t named after Draco from Harry Potter…Draco is in fact Latin for dragon. Just wanted to clear that up!

Ok, that’s all from me! Here's the next chapter!
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Chapter 2: Old Friends, Old Rivals

Slowly setting among the trees to the west, the sun turns the view of the horizon into a wonderful hue of red and orange. The soothing wind flows throughout the forest in the distance, carrying the scent of the trees into the open fields. Waves can be heard in the distance, peacefully wafting against the sandy shoreline. All the while, the native Pokémon of the surrounding area went about their lives, enjoying the pleasant sunset.

Three individuals make their way down a beaten path made among the beautiful grassland setting. The day’s events leaving the trio exhausted, they take their time in their trek home, trying to enjoy the scenery as much as possible. In hindsight, the day only appeared long when in fact the only thing that happened took but a couple hours. It makes sense in the end…when that one thing was the declaration of a unique new Pokémon League to the entire world!

"It’s done," Rift spoke aloud, breaking the silence that lingered among them ever since they left the stadium. Coming to a abrupt halt and staring off up into space, he continued with his thoughts, "We have finally done it…I can’t believe it."

Stopping along with him, Ki’alla and Sage couldn’t help but stare back at him as he stood there in his trance. Nobody could blame him though. It was indeed hard to believe what had just occurred. Many things would change from today forward. Hopefully, most of these changes would be beneficial than harmful. To them, with just the league’s formation…it meant much more to them than any human could imagine at this moment. That is, except for Rift. His life would change from how he used to live it as well, just like theirs…and that does not include being the leader of the Union League. It was true this was a lot to take in…but he seemed out of place.

"Is something troubling you?" Sage asked, for once speaking outside of his telepathy, if for no other reason but to include Ki’alla in the conversation. No response from the man. The two Pokémon recognized the look in Rift’s eyes. He was deep in thought, but they couldn’t determine if it was good or bad. In an attempt to bring him back to his senses, Sage nudged him with his paw just enough to make him take a sudden step backward, and back to reality.

"Uh…huh? What?" he asked in confusion, startled for a moment to what just happened. Yeah, he was definitely out of it.

"I asked if something is bothering you, Reyvon," Sage repeated himself, thinking that he should have asked him through his thoughts after all. That would, more likely than not, get a reaction from him, no matter where his thoughts were.

"Oh…no, not really," he replied, attempting to hide any would-be evidence that might say otherwise. Troubled? No, that wasn’t it. There was just a lot on his mind that he had to think about. He only prepared himself as far as the conference for the day…not the after effects. Trying once again to dive back into his thoughts, he stared down towards the ground, only to instead stare into a pair of cute brown eyes.

"Well, if nothing is bothering you, then why do you look so sad? I say cheer up!" the kid kit Ki’alla protested with a smile. There was no way he could fight against her there and with such an innocent grin across her light gold muzzle. He had no choice then and succumbed to the fact that he can think all he wants later. Enjoying this important day with them was more important right now anyway.

"Your right Ki," he admitted defeat to her, with a fair sigh of relief. Returning her smile with one of his own, he continued, "Today is a great day and I shouldn’t feel down. I’m just thinking too much, that’s all."

That small vote of confidence from her was all that was needed to lift his spirits. Being able to cheer him up with little effort, such is part of Ki’alla’s charm. That, and her jumping up and into his arms helps add to the effect as well, which is just what she did. He suspected she’d do this, for she does it constantly, mainly out of habit from her days as a regular Vulpix, when she used to ride on his shoulder. She was very pleased that she was able to still cling to him in some way, feeling fortunate enough that her transformation left her as tall as a 9 year old. Not one to protest the playful fox, loving her playful nature, he propped her up well enough so she rested comfortably in his arms. With everything and everyone settled, they pressed on home once again.

"You know what I still haven’t done?" Rift questioned suddenly, a look of surprise about him. "I have yet to thank you two properly." This was true, for up until that brief stop, they haven’t said a word. The swarm of reporters striving to get more answers from them as they attempted to leave was just too much and was flat out exhausting getting away from them. However they managed that.

"What do you mean?" Sage asked, slightly puzzled to what he was getting at.

"It’s just that I didn’t thank you two for your efforts today," he explained, looking to each of them in turn. "Sage, that sparring match we held was just what we needed to capture their interests. Not to mention your help standing by my side and keeping an eye out for our safety…I appreciate it. Thanks friend."

Sage, being as proud and stubborn as he is, couldn’t openly admit how happy he was to receive his praise. He couldn’t help but turn his head to the side, hiding a smirk, and responding with an enthusiastic ‘hmpf’ in acceptance. This simply made Rift chuckle a little. He knew this Lucario all too well, knowing he was happier to hear his words than he let on.

"As for you Ki," he began, gazing down into her eyes as she looked up at him, "The way you stood up for me…I was very touched by that. You were truly wonderful…and so courageous. Thank you so much."

Hearing such kind and sweet words from him, she could feel herself begin to blush a deep red. In her best effort to hide her embarrassment, she immediately buried her face into his chest, hoping he wouldn’t notice. Though she may be young and is innocent at heart, she was still a growing young lady. These little fits of embarrassment were just living proof that she was maturing.

"N-no…you don’t have to t-thank me…I’m just happy that I c-could help," she attempted to return his thanks, though her voice was slightly muffled by his shirt. Shifting her head, she peered up at him from her hiding place and added, "Though…I think I…uh, I mean we should really thank you."

"She’s right Reyvon. We, and all Pokémon, really must thank you for what you have done," Sage exclaimed, a gracious tone in his voice. It wasn’t necessary for Rift to ask why, for the inquisitive look on his face spoke for itself.

"Well, y-you did stand up for me too, but…" she paused while her bashful smile slowly turned into a worried expression, then continued, "You also stood up for all of us…All the dangers you are facing…there is so much. Everything you could have…and might lose! Maybe even u-" She was swiftly cut short before she could finish that last thought, with Rift placing a finger on her lips, silencing her worries.

"No. Don’t ever say that. I will not lose anything, and certainly none of you. This, I swear." He decreed with a strong, determined expression. "I thought you would have learned by now…I won’t let anything happen to my friends! Now, no more of this negative business, okay?"

This brought her faded blush right back, along with a sudden return of her beaming smile and a big, firm hug: this being her answer to him. Being able to sway the other into a better mood seemed to be a charm they both held for each other.

"Ok! Now let’s get home before it gets too late! I’m starving!" Rift then established, pumping his fist into the air, in which the two agreed without hesitation…as well as their stomachs.

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The path leading back from the stadium is rather streamlined. It’s a beaten in dirt road for the most part, until you reach either end of the trail. The stadium’s establishment was a setting of onyx stone worked into a special wave design. The other end being made of fine cobblestones, which was linked to the back entrance of the Danketsu Dojo, the home of Rift and teaching grounds and center of the league.

No sooner did the dojo come into view did Ki’alla quickly leaped down out of Rift’s arms and ran as fast as she could home, presumably pretending to race them. The other two opted to calmly walk the rest of the way, enjoying the subtle breeze that flowed over and through the Ilex Forest nearby. Even though they were all hungry…it never seemed to affect the girl in any way.

A mystery. That’s what she was in so many ways, aside from the obvious. Her past, what she thinks, why she acts the way she does. These were a few thoughts that came to mind while trying to understand her more. Though...that wasn't even on their minds right now, as the supposed meal waiting for them at home filled their thoughts.

Now, the dojo was quite a sight to see, for it being near impossible to miss, even from afar. From their distance, they could see the full rear structure of the building. It stood two stories high and was made to look like a martial arts dojo of an era long past. The light brown wood and cream white paper make up of the shoji doorways matched that of the wall design absolutely. Meanwhile, the manor was beautifully accented with the sun’s setting rays radiating off of the traditional, shrine styled, dark brown colored steel shingles. Garnishing the entranceway were many elegant features. To the left, their right, of the walkway rested a large boulder used for meditation, a small flower garden, and a sheltered pathway leading to Rift’s room, separate from the main establishment and which could be seen in the distance. The room was fashioned similar to rest of the house, only raised off the ground atop a carved stone slab and resembled that of which the master of the house resided in, this being obvious in his case. On the other side of the path lay a large oval shaped fishpond, with a wooden bridge crossing over the middle of it. Close to the pond, and attached to the supposed corner of the abode, was a passage that led to a large open-air hot spring, implanted in a massive stone ridge. The path leading into the springs was connected on the second floor, while an open-air walk way was on the bottom, leading to beneath the springs. The final noticeable construct of the building, attached to the foundation of the roof, was a broad platform, which stretched along half of the building’s length and slightly extending out over the ground, with a walkway leading down and into the building.

The dojo was a truly a massive sight to behold…and this was only what was visible from the back.

As the two finally approached the stone walkway, Ki’alla now watching the fish Pokémon in the pond patiently, Sage couldn’t help but wonder about Rift’s thoughts from before. He became curious enough to try and solicit an answer, "Reyvon…what was it that you were thinking about earlier?"

Rift, seemingly lost in thought already once more, snapped out of his newest trance as they reached the wooden steps, stopped and answered, "Oh…that. I was thinking about the future. The thought of what is to happen…I couldn’t help but think about the possibilities." This time around, he had a higher tone of optimism in his voice.

"You always did have your head in the clouds, didn’t you…R n’R?"

Rift stopped instantly where he stood as he heard those words. That deep voice…it certainly wasn’t Sage’s…and that nickname. Only one person ever called him that. It couldn’t be him though…could it?

He turned on the spot, anxious to see the source of the voice, only for his blue eyes to stare into that of a familiar shade of the same color. There stood a man, leaned up against the boulder, with a poised look upon his face. "Draco?"

The man in question chuckled slightly, then replied, "The one and only! Seems like you have been rather busy, huh? It’s been awhile…old friend."

Placed against the boulder, he appeared to be about 5’8", only two inches shorter than Rift. His choice in clothing was rather straight forward, wearing nothing more than a sleeveless red shirt, black slacks, and a pair of black shoes. In actuality, he was dressed similar to Rift, minus his gloves, sash, and lab coat. His figure appeared to be in good shape, like someone who dealt with a lot of demanding physical work. Though what really sold this man’s identity, aside from his confident answer, was his hair. It reached down to his shoulders and was rather unkempt…but was pure white.

This was certainly who he thought it was. Someone he hasn’t seen for many years. His childhood friend… Draco Falconi.

"That it has," Rift responded, as he reached out his hand in welcome, which Draco gladly accepted. The league leader couldn’t help but feel a sense of delight flow over him concerning this latest development. The sudden reunion with his best friend after so many years… This was already a great day, but this just made it that much better. Though, Rift wasn’t the only one happy to see him again.

"Uncle Draco!" Ki’alla squealed, as she suddenly left her spot by the pond and ran up to him, glowing with joy. Jumping up and down excitedly, she couldn’t help but bombard him with her ramblings, "I’m so happy to see you! It’s been so long! How are you? Where have you been? What have you been up to? Did you bring me anything?"

All the while, Draco just stood there with a smile on his face. However, it looked as if he was surprised, perplexed, and a little on the uneasy side. Rift noticed this false smile he held right away, but knew it was only natural in his case. After all, the last time his friend saw Ki’alla…she was standing on all fours.

"Come now Ki, leave Draco alone for now. He just got here after all. You can talk to him later," he advised the girl, slowly pulling her away. Falling to the ground in defeat and being dragged away, she groaned all the while about wanting to talk to Draco more. He couldn’t help but sigh to himself, trying to figure how to fight her childish protest. It donned on him just then what would perk her right up, "Say, weren’t you supposed to help with the cooking tonight? I bet the others could use your help right about now. What do you think? Sound good?"

She stopped for a second and thought it over, then checked it over with her belly as it growled back at her. Even she could only last for so long deprived of food, so she agreed without any further argument. Jumping to her feet, she gave Draco a proper bow goodbye and hurried on inside.

During all of this, Sage stood off to the side, not one to get directly involved too often and simply observing as he always does. He is the type to know when and when not to mettle in certain matters, though in no means is he anti-social. Simply not the talkative sort. However, he demonstrated his more social side as he approached Draco and spoke aloud, "Greetings Falconi. It’s a pleasure to see you again."

"The same with you, Sage," he answered back, as the two bow to each other. The way Draco acted towards Sage was clearly different from Ki’alla. The two of them held an obvious respect for each other, based on different levels. He cares for all Rift's Pokémon really, and vice versa.

"So Draco, what brings you to the dojo?" something Rift felt like he had to ask right away, for Draco always has a purpose for his visits. Being the busy man that he is and not seeing him for many a year, he wouldn’t just be stopping by to say "hello". No, he had better reasons.

Like Draco didn’t see that question coming. Anyone else would have probably thought his friend was being rude, by trying to get an answer out of him and then be rid of him. No, they weren't really formal with each other about much of anything. Never have been and never will be. This man's reasons usually revolved around business, was seeking help, or he needed to speak with him about an important matter. This time however...it was something slightly different than the usual.

"What brings me here is that conference you held," responded Draco, watching the puzzled look that overcame his friend's face. "It was very...interesting."

It was true that Rift wanted him to attend the event, but he was unable to invite his friend, for he didn't know where he was, per usual. He usually has an address for messages and the like cause of this, but all his connections seemed to have gone dead about a few weeks ago. Though, something about this bugged him a little...

"I'm glad you were able to come and see it, though I have to ask…how did you know? I was unable to contact you about it. Also, I'm pretty sure you wouldn’t have seen the announcements made last week or watch it on TV either," he presented his thoughts, trying to figure out how he witness it without any previous knowledge of it. The thought of him seeing the advertisements for it or watch it on TV didn’t seem likely, for he doesn’t really watch television anymore. Last he knew.

"Heh, you seem to forget that I'm good at picking up information, especially word of mouth. I heard about some major event one day while on an assignment. Wasn’t sure of the details and I was curious enough, so I dug into it," he revealed as he stepped away from the boulder and made his way over to the pond, kneeling down next to it. "I found out that the professors knew something about the whole thing. Naturally, I went to our friend Birch to inquire about it. Imagine my surprise when I learned you were behind it. Wasn't sure if he knew more or not, but I wasn't going to ruin the surprise behind it either way. So, I made my way to the stadium today and watched from the highest point."

Why did this not surprise Rift? Draco was, after all, an agent who specialized in stealth, tactics, and information gathering. He might have noticed him among the crowd if he was looking for him specifically, but it still would have been difficult with him standing high among the partition of the building.

"What you are doing here, with this Union League…I have to say, I’m very impressed. I knew you would do well for yourself...but not once did I ever think you would do something this huge. It’s sure to be something great," he complimented Rift, who appreciated having his friend’s support on the matter. Sage as well, knowing that they had one more ally on their side. Though in the end, there was no doubt he would approve.

"Thanks. It’s only the start however, and there is much to do," he stated, right as all three of their stomachs began to growl. Slightly embarrassed with his body speaking for him, Rift suggested, "How about we go and prepare for dinner. Will you be able to join us tonight Draco?"

"Well…I think I can spare the time," he responded, taking him up on his offer.

"Great. Well then, follow us. The dining room is in the east wing," Rift mentioned, as they entered the dojo, eager to fill their stomachs and enjoy a peaceful evening.

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Unfortunately, such an evening may not seem possible, as Ki’alla would be hard to keep quiet through the night. Already she demonstrated this very well, happily running about the kitchen, trying to help with the cooking and singing to herself all the while.

"The noodles are ready!" she confirmed, as she hurried over to the stove and reached up to grab the pot.

"Ki’alla, no!" a female voice shouted, causing Ki’alla to flinch in reaction, only inches away from grabbing the pot’s handles. In a light and pleasant tone, the voice informed the fox, "Even though you are a fire Pokémon, you can still be hurt by high temperatures if you aren’t careful."

This considerate warning came from a Kirlia, whom was originally in charge of cooking for the evening. As per usual, she wanted to prepare the meal by herself, but it was hard to tell Ki'alla's otherwise whenever she is eager to help. The kid kit did want to learn how to cook and is pleasant company to have in the kitchen…long as her actions were kept under surveillance.

Walking over to the counter top in the middle of the room, she opened a drawer and pulled out a pair of thermal gloves, promptly handing them over to her assistant. Ki’alla slipped them on and carefully pulled the pot off the stove and carried it to the table, where all the food was being prepared.

"Think he will like it Psyla?" Ki’alla asked, a hint of worry in her voice. She prepared Rift’s portion of the ramen all on her own, and was afraid that he may not approve.

"I’m sure he will," Psyla assured her, "Though a certain other two would eat it no matter what you do to it…they'd eat pretty much anything." The two giggled to themselves at this remark, knowing exactly whom she was talking about. They weren’t pigs per say. Just not the pickiest of eaters.

"Hey, something smells good! Dinner almost ready?" Rift called out from the dinning room adjacent to the kitchen. "Hope you don’t mind, but we have one more dinning with us!"

"No, it's fine. Ki’alla has already informed me of our guest. Dinner will be out in just a moment, so please be seated," Psyla replied, prepping the last of the food. "Sage, could you help carry the food out?"

"Yes, one moment," he answered aloud, with a hint of annoyance in his voice.

She managed to sense him as he entered the room, catching him just as he was sitting down. Sage was hard to irritate, but she knew how to push his buttons quite easily. One of many was to interrupt him just as he is about to relax. She liked to tease him a little every now and then, but mainly in the attempt to loosen him up, as she felt he was too tense.

He was definitely annoyed, as it showed on his face as he entered the kitchen, and stared right at the Kirlia and questioned her, "You don’t give up, do you?"

With a playful, innocent smile, she said with a laugh, "Nope. Not until you lighten up!"

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"Hope you’re ready for a feast pal, because Psyla said she was planning something big for tonight in celebration of the league’s official confirmation," Rift notified his friend, as he sat down at one of the far ends of the dinning table, Draco taking a seat to his left, as he was advised to. Ki’alla was rather picky where she sat, which was always to the right of him, be it kind of selfish.

"You know I am. Haven’t eaten since this morning…and not much at that," said Draco, rubbing his stomach in anticipation. He didn’t care what it was exactly they were having, but from the smell coming from the kitchen, it had to be good.

"Wade! Zen! Razz! You’d better hurry up if you want to eat!" Rift exclaimed, informing the others that dinner was ready.

"Coming!" a mixture of voices yelled back. Shortly after, a stammer of footsteps could be heard coming from down the hallway in a hurry. No doubt, there wasn’t a single person that wasn’t starving in the manor.

Entering the room, one by one, were the rest of Rift's Pokémon. An Empoleon, a Tropius, and a Luxray, all of whom which stumbled their way into the dinning room and over to the table. The Empoleon took a seat near the other end of the table, while the Luxray hopped up into the chair across from him. Meanwhile, due to his size, Tropius did as he always did and sat next to the table, being too big to actually sit in a chair.

"Ah, good to see you again Draco!" the Empoleon stated, the tone of his voice naturally stern. "The last time I saw you, I was just a Piplup!" he continued on, with a hearty laugh.

"That you were Wade. You grew up rather quick," he praised him, impressed with such quick progress. No doubt it was due to Rift’s training that made him evolve so fast. "Speaking of which…Razz, how goes your training? How strong is your charge now?"

The Luxray thought for a moment, thinking back to their last encounter. "I’d say…enough to power the dojo for a full three days, if I build up enough and release over the course of a few minutes," he confirmed with a proud grin across his face, his voice still deep and raspy.

"He isn’t the only one that has been training hard," the Tropius clarified, holding a fair quality in his voice. "I’ve been working on my flying skills and assorted grass techniques!"

"I bet you must be very skilled now Zen. You will have to show me how far you’ve come," he continued his praising, "Though Razz, given that much power is truly a feat, I’m willing to guess that you are out like a light for awhile releasing that much energy." The lion Pokémon stared down in embarrassment, for this was true. Such a task drained him of his energy and his strength very quickly.

"Ok everyone, dinner is served!" Psyla announced, carrying out a couple plates of food, as well as levitating one above her head. Following her was Sage and Ki’alla with the rest of the entrees. They spread the food along the table, all of which consisted of various fruits, rice, cooked fish, and Ki’alla’s home made ramen, to name just a few of the choices.

"Itadakimasu!" everyone chimed in, and began to pick at their desired foodstuffs. Well, everyone besides Ki’alla, who was waiting patiently to see if Rift would like her cooking. Ramen being one of his favorite meals, he chose to eat that first. Just as he pulled out some noodles and placed it in his mouth, he stopped suddenly. The look on his face portrayed the thought that something wasn’t right.

"Say…you made this, didn’t you Ki?" he asked, doing his best to hide his initial thoughts.

"Yep!" she admitted happily, "So, do you like it?"

"Sure do," he lied coolly, not wanting to hurt her feelings. It was true that she wanted to learn how to cook, but there was always one problem. She would always add something to her meals that shouldn’t be there. This time around, she made the ramen incredibly spicy. He liked spicy food…but never spicy ramen. As always, to not make her suspect anything and to be kind to her effort, he forced himself to eat it all.

All the while, everyone attended to his or her own meals, with Wade and Razz eating everything they could reach, not seemingly tasting the food. These two would be the not-so-picky eaters, while Zen was particular to eating almost nothing but fruits and some rice. Everyone else enjoyed the rest of what was made, with everyone thankful for such a great dinner.

All the while, those of Rift's Pokémon that didn’t attend the league’s unveiling in person gave Rift, Sage, and Ki’alla many a compliment. They watched the event unfold on television themselves, though they originally wanted to attend as well. Rift opposed the idea from the beginning, though only because he wanted to get to the point of the conference as quick as possible then get return home just as quick. None of them could argue with him there…for the sooner it was done, the sooner things would change. The sooner, everything is going to change.

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"This certainly brings you back, doesn’t it?" Rift asked his friend, taking a sip of his tea. The meal was practically gone by now. Although with so many at the table, it was to be expected.

"Yep…sure does," Draco agreed, leaning back in his chair, "We have many good memories from back then. Though some are a little blurry."

Rift couldn’t help but bring up some fun memories after that remark. "Heh heh…do you remember that one time, just as you became a trainer? It was when you first tried to give an order to your Bagon, only for it to turn around and chase after you instead?" He couldn’t help but burst out laughing at this, picturing the Pokémon chasing after him, trying to bite him...and finally managing to succeed, right on his rear.

"Oh, ha ha ha," Draco laughed mockingly back at him, "I managed to gain his trust pretty quick after that…but you aren’t one to talk so big. I know one area that you are lacking in enough to poke fun at."

"Oh yeah? Do tell," Rift egged him on, eager to find out what he was getting at.

"In our fights, your win-loss record is pretty bad. Sure, you could win if it was a quick and all out rumble, but against my tactics in a prolonged bout, I got you every time!" Draco gloated with a big smirk across his face. Now the one laughing, he added, "I bet I can still beat you!"

A slight chuckle came from Rift at this statement, which caused Draco to halt in his laughter and cause his smile to disappear. Taking another sip from his tea, Rift placed his cup down and stood up from his seat and declared, "I wouldn’t be so sure of that."

"Oh? Is that a challenge?" Draco queried, standing up to face him.

"That it is," he confirmed, with a resolute look in his eyes, "I think I know just the place. It’s in the west wing."

"Lead the way," Draco replied, his smile returning once again.

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Only a few moments later, the two combatants stood in the middle of the training hall, while all the Pokémon sat to the sides spectating.

"So, how do you want to do this?" Draco questioned in order to determine his course of action.

"Pretty simple. One on one, hand to hand combat. No tricks or abilities. The winner is declared when one of us is either knocked out or surrenders. Sage will be the referee," Rift announced the rules, "How's that?" Draco nodded in agreement.

Sage strolled over to the side and out of their way. Being a fighting Pokémon, he was the best choice as a ref, for he would be able to follow the flow of battle very well. Not to mention, he would be able to pick up on any breach in the rules. Also, ironically enough, his fur coloring represented that of a ref as well, something in which he tried not to pay attention to, less he allow Psyla to poke fun at him.

"Ready!" Sage yelled, with Rift and Draco taking their own fighting stances.

"You can beat him Ri!," Ki'alla shouted, cheering him on.

"Go!"

They took no time waiting for the other to make a move and jumped right into the fray, dashing straight towards each other. As they closed the gap between them, Rift leaped straightforward into the air, trying for a kick to the head. Draco easily avoided it by sliding to a stop and crouching low to the ground, letting Rift fly over him and land on the ground right behind him. Taking the opportunity, Draco tried for a leg sweep to throw him off balance, but didn’t guess Rift’s next move. He was able to dodge the span of the attack by performing an aerial spin kick, which also missed its target and flew over his head. Recovering from their attacks, they stood upright and ended up coming to grips with each other. At this point, the next move would be determined by who could break the struggle.

"Seems like you aren’t as predictable as usual," Draco complimented his foe, trying to push him to one side. "You’re pretty good…for being a book worm most of your life!"

“You mean a researcher,” he retorted, fighting Draco’s attempts to break the struggle, “Even so, I’ve always been the stronger among us…and I have been training all these years!"

At this moment, he then loosened his end of the struggle, leaned into Draco while grabbing onto his shirt, then pivoted to one side and tossed him across the room, the man falling flat on the ground on his back. Draco was stunned for a moment, but not from the shock of hitting the floor. All of Rift’s Pokémon cheered at his successful attack, Ki’alla being the loudest among them all.

Situating himself back up right, he had to confirm his thoughts, "That move…was that aikido?"

“That it was…good eye. Always been one for attention to detail and quick with the info, haven’t you?” was his tribute to his rival. They knew each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Well…Draco used to know his. "Though, I did just say I have been training…and in more ways then one!"

Ending their exchange of words, Rift charged towards him, unleashing a series of punches and quick jab combinations. Instead of going on the assault as well, Draco kept his distance and played a strong defense. This ensured him to be able to work with his main strategy…gather data and figure how he should proceed. It may take longer sometimes, but it guaranteed him a higher chance at victory. For this time, it seemed he was going to need to treat this fight differently than those of the past.

Rift caught on fast that his current attempts were not getting him anywhere. To try and throw him off, he changed his combinations up and threw low and high kicks into the mix. Sadly, Draco’s speed kept him from landing a hit even with a change in tactics. For the moment, he opted to keep his current tactic, hoping it would keep him at bay and buy some time, while trying to think of another approach.

This would not last however, for Draco finally drew upon what he was looking for and found an opening. Taking his chance, he deflected an on coming left punch and punched him square in the gut as hard as he could, this time sending him flying to the ground. The spectators gasped at this sudden upset, with a certain kitsune not looking very happy.

'So that was what he was doing...Should have known,' Rift thought as he got back to his feet in a hurry. Creating some distance between them, he hastily thought up his next move, 'This may take a bit out of me…but I think it will work.'

Like a stubborn bull that doesn’t know when to quit, Rift charged in again, and without changing from his current strategy. Draco chuckled slightly as he saw this, thinking all the while, 'I knew it…still somewhat predictable.'

Draco went along with his own strategy, waiting for that opening to show itself again. As predicted, it showed up moments later, just after another left punch. Confident in his next attack, he swung again in hopes it would put him down. His fist collided with his stomach again, but didn’t notice one small, yet important detail. Rift wasn’t sent to the ground, but instead, he absorbed the blow by taking a defensive stance with his legs. Taking advantage of this opening, it was Rift’s turn to put all he could into one strike and landed a punch in the dead center of Draco’s chest. The impact of the blow launched him directly into the opposing wall with a hard bang, cracking the structure, followed by a heavy thud as he fell to the floor.

"It’s over!" Sage howled, coming in between the two fighters, "Neither combatant is able to fight any longer. It’s a draw."

"Huh? I don’t get it! Ri should be able to fight! He’s still standing," Ki’alla objected, not being able to believe he wasn’t able to pull a win…and for it to be over so fast.

"Heh…not really…" Rift corrected her, who was clearly down on one knee, "I agree with Sage on this one… Why don’t you explain?"

He concurred with a nod and explained, "Both are unable to continue, for they are equally physically exhausted. Reyvon, having not using his ability to strengthen his defense, absorbed one too many blows, exerted himself in trying to hit his opponent, and the rest of his energy went into his final attack. Draco’s was drained due to the first attack made upon him, his time spent evading attacks, and the final blow he took."

"Heh...well put," Draco said, expressing his approval in Sage’s judgment, and while sitting up right against the wall. "You certainly have improved...That would normally have ended with me as the victor."

"That it would…" he agreed with him full heartedly. He fell back and took a seat on the floor, with a sigh of relief and dawned a pleased smile. At that moment, Draco suddenly began to chuckle to himself. Rift stared back at him with a puzzled look on his face. Slowly, like an infection, he began to laugh as well, both of them breaking into a loud fit of hilarity. The others merely looked at them, like they were crazy, but this was not it.

They were simply happy. Very, very happy.

----------

Under the glow of the full moon, two people stood side-by-side, starring back up into the star filled sky. Two friends standing over a pond, enjoying the end of the day, whilst the cold wind whisks their troubles away.

"Say, is aikido the main style you use?" Draco asked, thinking over their bout, taking a sip from the cup he held in his hands.

"Actually, no. I only learned moves from various styles and we don’t teach any either," he answered his friend, "What we teach here is what you saw at the league’s unveiling. That would be the formation of bonds between humans and Pokémon, the benefits that come from such bonds, and how to control what comes from what we gain."

"This all sounds like something you would do...It's very noble," his friend admitted, staring deeper into the stars, "Something…really worthwhile."

Rift couldn’t help but notice the distant look on his face. Almost like something is troubling him, deep down inside. It looked as if he’s riddled with problems and is seeking a solution. Well, in the very least, he knew of one way to help him, "You know you can stay here as long as you want...It would be a nice change of pace, you sticking around for more than a day or two. I know Ki’alla would like it if you stayed. As would everyone else as well."

Draco instantly looked shocked, as if he wasn’t suspecting his friend’s kind gesture. This quickly faded away, remembering just how kind he was. Softhearted and thoughtful…now those words didn’t serve Rift’s compassionate nature any justice.

"Maybe I’ll take you up on that offer...Meanwhile, I can see for myself just what this league of yours is all about with my own eyes," he said, accepting his proposition.

"Does that mean you will join the league?" Rift asked, hoping that the first person to study under him may be his best friend.

"Hmm, possibly…but I have to give it some thought," he stated, taking one more sip from his drink, "Though if I like what I see…you got yourself a student!"

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An old friend, Draco Falconi, has arrived and shows interest in the league. Will he join? Well, he has all the time in the world to think it over and plenty of space to do it in, at the very spacious Danketsu Dojo! One has to wonder, what sort of mischief and chaos could possibly happen in this manor? Only thing to do is wait and see…

A note from Draco: Hello all! I'm glad to see that I've finally shown up in the Union League story! Murdoc and I are doing our best to get these chapters written and proofread, but of course, life does get in the way at times, so we may sometimes take a little while to update! Ja ne!

Now, as mentioned last chapter, here’s the Current Pokémon List: (only slightly updated)

Rift’s Pokémon
F/Vulpix – Ki’alla
M/Lucario – Sage
F/Kirlia – Psyla
M/Empoleon – Wade
M/Luxray – Razz
M/Tropius – Zen