You got the wrong person

It had seemed like a better idea to start from the old family cottage outside the village before dropping Nihil in the chaotic streets of the Citadel. Erica hopped on her feet and began pacing around, her footsteps somehow producing no sound at all.

"We're up North here, so we get snow for most of the year. I don't know what here is called now, though. They've been renaming things since the zombie apocalypse ended."

There was a sort of detachment in her tone. Though there was no time to worry about that. They had nature to contemplate.

Nihil folded its hands together as it looked around, in contrast to Erica's pacing only taking a few small steps one way and then another as if it didn't even know where to start.

The term 'zombie apocalypse' was thrown out awfully casually so that was going to be assumed to be a normal thing here.

Erica herself was a point of interest though so when she suggested looking at her house, it zeroed in on that.

"Okay!" Erica marched to the door and unlocked it with a shadow key that dispelled after use as quickly as it was conjured, "The truth is I think that's where I was born. I can't really ask my parents about it."

Their shrine was on the other side of the yard under the weeping willow, though that didn't make them more talkative. The house was well kept though. There was a cozy living room and a small kitchen further down on the right. A staircase just by the door led the way to the upper floor.

"I had to fix it up when it all ended, but I make it not look like much or someone might try to come live here." she explained as she retrieved the house keys she had indeed forgotten inside on her last visit, "The house being next to a spooky forest doesn't stop everyone apparently. I don't have a lot of stuff here. I was very little when they took me away and babies don't own much."

There were however many paintings on the walls. One of them was of a beautiful lady with pointed ears just like Erica.

It would have been nice to discover the game together, if anything. They all needed to unwind and if gaming was what would have kept Rook from overworking her sore leg, then Veronica would have definitely been persuaded to try.

"Yes, I'm aware of that." Willow replied, "Having pondered whether I would enjoy the company of a pet for the longest time, I find Simon's choices most fascinating."

Hermit crabs didn't really stray far from their assigned spaces and didn't have the ability to hide within the walls of the facility. Smokey usually didn't leave Erica's side for long but she didn't really want to rearrange an entire floor just to find a mischievous pet.

"I for one am glad I don't have to share whatever dreadful vision Russell is experiencing. My users are more than enough."

"It's not as awful right now that she finally shut the hell up." Lucien told Willow, "But it's still a sacrifice I'm willing to make if it means not leaving you alone, Russell. You'll get rid of her for good soon enough."

That much was warranted when both the best healers in town were on the case. All was left to do now was to sit and wait to hear what unpleasant concoction they would have to put together to fight Five's toxic cocktail.

"Yes, the evil wizard is teaming up with the tickle monster." Rook joked, "And I'm here because I have to bring my playful companionship to the mix."

Someone still had to be a menace while they licked their wounds. Rook used her own powers to help herself to some cookies. Some sugar would sooth her sore leg.

"So I'm not just seeing things, uh? Something about this whole thing felt off from the start." Rook said between bites, "Five was having a blast fighting Leofric, but this isn't really his way of doing things. We've seen the stuff he can pull, what happened to Russell isn't really professional."

It probably wasn't the best way to put it but this whole encounter had been far from the usual plans Five loved orchestrating. Leaving Ratchet to his demise was really the only familiar element.

"So I guess he really jumped off the building when things got difficult. I hope he landed in a garbage truck."

"So they're divorcing, big deal. It's probably best for everyone in the long run, don't you think?" Fae said, giving a shrug before looking at Travis, "Oh, I hardly did much, you were the star in there. So you deserve some sugar to make up for all that rushing, no disgusting milkshakes, and you'll have to let Tails patch your leg up."

Erica opened her first aid kit to reveal a small jar of the same concoction Veronica was using. "Put some of this on, then I'll wrap it."

She wasn't going to take a no as an answer. Erica's ears twitched when Leofric took his leave, but didn't say much otherwise.

"Ah, the mysterious trickery that lets you abandon a room through walls unfitted for the task. I can't imagine what that would feel like." Veronica mused, before nodding at Russell, "Of course. Try to rest in the meantime and don't hesitate to speak up if you need anything."

She was aware that was a major request when it came to Russell, but Veronica cared very little for Cassandra's opinion, whether it was a hallucination or the real deal. She didn't let go yet before glancing at Lucien. The half fae man understood the request without her needing to utter a single word.

"She's right there." he replied. Veronica clicked her tongue, unleashing her fire breath in the direction he was pointing at.

"Well then, let's have a look at the other lovebird." Veronica moved on to examine Lucien's leg, "Oh, it's just a scratch. You'll ready to fuss over Russell in no time."

Lucien's leg received the same treatment as before, which he returned with a mildly annoyed look.

"I will gladly do so and I won’t take a no from an answer, my love." Lucien said, "You did the same for me and for much longer, it will be no trouble at all."

"Welcome back, Leofric. You came at just the right time, I'm all out of colored bandaids." Veronica greeted him, "I will have a look at your grimoires in just a moment. Would you mind assisting Antonio in the meantime? I have little experience with tails."

She absolutely needed to brush up, though. Veronica got to reading in no time, glad Leofric had already selected the material for her. Five was always such a pain to deal with. Everything had to be so specific.

"I have a feeling this won't be as simple as last time. While we have ways to destroy the toxins, Russell doesn’t heal normally anymore." Veronica said, summoning her own notebook, "Perhaps we should focus on jumpstarting his regeneration and increase the recovery rate as much as possible. Do you have anything we can use on hand?"

"I'm right here, if you need me." Rook said.

Bill had a feeling that a few days of gaming in order to recover from the physical injuries (and to mentally decompress before dealing with Five again) would most likely be in order.

"They're good company," Simon said, "And they good for helping me work out a coding problem when the rubber duck council just isn't enough."

"I will say that's a relief to me as well," Antonio agreed with Willow, "And I can only imagine the kind of sights you have to witness because of them."

He decided not to ask whether Cassandra was better or worse, or just a different kind of bad completely. Cassandra had been unable to help herself from getting another insult in, about how Russell was just a waste of anyone's care. It was always hard to shake that belief even now.

"Y-yeah," Russell finally said when he found his voice, "I, I will be... I'll, I'll be, be okay."

"You can never be okay, being what you are," Cassandra snarled. Despite the hurt in Russell's eyes, he resisted responding.

"Tickle monster, well I suppose I can make that sound badass when I could tickle someone to death if I really wanted to," Bill mused, "And we can definitely do twice as many guest services if there are two of us."

"Don't push it," Antonio said, although his tone was light-hearted. It was most likely better to try and keep the mood gentle, just in case a heavier vibe would make the entire aura worse, "No you weren't seeing things, Rook. I think that was more than likely the case. It wasn't planned, but Five wanted to take advantage of the situation."

"I'm starting to think that by take advantage, let us beat the crap out of Ratchet and then hang him from a building," Bill speculated, "Well, yeah, them being divided could be an advantage I guess."

"Not if they'll be attacking us separately," Leofric said, "While they're a threat as a team and might not be as strong if they choose to work apart, it would also mean watching out for attacks from two angles. Ratchet also has a massive grudge. He won't have learned a lesson from this."

"I thought that might be the case," Travis said, running a hand through his hair, "Oh well, at least it means I get the chance to try and knock more sense into him. Well, I can live with that for a bit, thank you, Erica."

Travis was quick to get the ointment onto the cuts, and then he moved his hands aside and sat still so Erica could indeed get him patched up after.

"I mean as an outsider," Bill clarified.

"I, I can, I can, I can try to," Russell tried to joke, hoping that it at least sounded a little bit funny.

Cassandra let out an alarmed yell when she flames hit her. When they stopped, her skin was left covered in ash, leaving only her eyes exposed.

"You ruined my makeup! How dare you?!" she screamed in rage. It seemed that for a moment, she had forgotten about Russell. Instead, a hand mirror was grabbed from her dress, alongside a wet wipe, and she desperately tried to wipe at the soot covering her face. But that also allowed Russell to pay proper attention to Lucien, and smiled on hearing that kind words.

"I would, I would, I would do, do that all again for, for you too," Russell replied softly.

"I suppose it's useful that I made sure to pack some extra," Leofric said, before looking over at Antonio, "That won't be a problem."

"Just be gentle," Antonio said.

"That's not too deep thankfully," Leofric assured Antonio then, listening to Veronica as he tended to the wound as well, getting it bandaged when it was done, "That was my thought as well. I did mark down some concoctions and spells to possibly do that, but the most potent one there would require fae blood, and that isn't something I actually have on hand."

Leofric then looked up at Fae and Lucien.

Veronica would have appreciated the thought. Ducks were lovely, after all. She would have liked the comparison.

"Ah, of course. You require a specialized audience." Willow nodded, "Yes, I have seen questionable things. It doesn't faze me too much, though."

None of it was this personal. Russell being the one reliving it gave it an unnerving tone that she simply couldn't shake off. Cassandra was an awful person who deserved to be forgotten already. She would ensure the ones responsible for this would pay for bringing this all back.

Erica was ready to do her part and tasked a shadow tentacle of her own to grab a glass of water for Russell. It was always good to stay hydrated. At least she could offer that before he had to deal with whatever Leofric and Veronica were going to put together. Rook was very clear about how bad those potions usually tasted.

"I guess Ratchet is the only one who didn't figure it out." Erica said, getting out a roll of gauze, "Maybe we can use that to our advantage, make them step on each other's feet. It's easier to mess with someone who's already angry. They make more mistakes."

"Or it'll piss them off more. We should probably consider our next move well before we end up having to watch out for traps at every corner." Rook told her. Erica figured that was a fair point and didn't argue.

"I guess we'll have to figure out where the Twins left Ratchet and leave him further away. It looks like he can be just as bad as Five or worse." Once Travis was done, she began wrapping his leg. "You have chonky legs. One of these usually lasts me a couple more wounds."

"Leg day sure pays off with you, bud." Fae said with a grin.

Erica was going to reward those efforts by applying a pin shaped like a cat's head to secure the bandage.

"Are you saying that as an outsider because you can't get in through the wall?"

"Mum, this isn't the time for puns." Rook shook her head, "Can I have some tea?"

Veronica's fiery solution stole a laugh from Lucien. He had needed that. Cassandra's misery would keep him motivated.

"Now I understand what Edgeworth meant with 'You're not a clown. You're the entire circus'." he mused, squeezing Russell's hand, "See? We're stronger than her."

And he was going to do anything to help. Lucien was standing up before Leofric could even address him and Fae.

"Nonsense. Russell would do the same for me if he could, I'm ready to do my part." He held up his arm to further prove his point.

"Fine. What's your blood type?" Veronica asked then.

"What does it matter?

"It matters a lot. So unless you know for certain, we will have to go with Fae." the ghost lady replied, "Your offer is remarkable but time is of the essence. We should pick the safest option."

"It's alright, Lucien. Helping Russell is an honor." Fae said, before smiling, "Besides, it's been a while since the last time I caused a diplomatic accident. Take whatever you need, Leofric."

Lucien seemed to accept the situation despite being once again inadequate to help. He would sort out his own feelings in regards to his half blooded heritage later. He had to be strong for Russell now.

Veronica nodded in approval. "Very well, Leofric. I'd be happy to start with the preparations if you can handle this part."

That was the trouble with clairvoyance, wasn't it? But with a positive attitude, they could sort this out. Rook proceeded to pat at the many pockets on her pants before retrieving a folded piece of paper.

"It's just as good I was already mapping out the shady spots in the city. Someone has been buying up a good number of them, so that should narrow our research."

On rare occasions, Five managed to be useful for something. Rook began unfolding the paper to show off a grainy map of the city covered in notes about abandoned buildings and alleged anomalies haunting others. Nonaim Point wasn't a place where one was ever at risk of getting bored. Rook still looked rather proud of her system, in any case. She had bought colored markers just for that.

"I usually crosscheck for changes in ghost activity in this kind of situation. They tend to gather where interesting stuff is about to go down. But if I had to guess, the old construction site would be our best bet. They say they were building an underground garage before a rogue thunderstorm fried most of the equipment."

She, of course, knew nothing about that one either.

"Old construction site?" He inquires, straightening his posture and jotting that down in his notebook. "Of course..." He tucks his notebook away in his coat along with his pen, pondering for a moment. "I do recall an unfinished structure showing up in one of my visions. You may be onto something." He says before holding out a hand. "May I look at that map again?" He asks.

"With so much going on, I have to stay up to date for my own safety." One wrong turn and she could get ambushed by a gang of hunters, or vampires, or one disappointed dragon if she was late for dinner again.

In any case, the map was just a reminder. Rook was off the moment they had agreed on a destination. It was best to investigate a possible evil lair during the day, before most of the fanatics gathered.

"Well, I'm always open to suggestions. One thing I've learned is that investigations are to be done on foot. My bike got wrecked last time I ventured in this side of the city. I'm not making the same mistake."

She still wasn't done lamenting the loss of her motorcycle. There was however confidence in her steps, as if she owned those streets regardless of the many lurking threats.

The plan to rehabilitate ducks in Nihil's eyes was already ongoing. Still, Erica had to stop to admire the way it was wringing itself out. That must have felt great. Perhaps it was half pool noodle after all.

Her shadow door didn't seem much in comparison when she just had to will one into existence. She shrugged at the question.

"They say it's an advanced trick but it's the first thing I learned. I think I'm slightly above average for now. My teacher is way stronger than me." Erica grabbed Nihil's hand, before stepping in the portal, "Off we go!"

They would be mostly going down for now as the shadows were apparently fitted with slides as well. The trip would be intense but short, taking them through the void and out into a grassy backyard with flowers and trees all around. Erica threw her hands up right as a butterfly attempted to land on her hat.

Maybe that was an attempt at modesty on Erica's part, but Nihil still thought it sounded impressive. How easily she summoned the door was a big part of why it was so impressive. How many people could just do that like it was nothing?

It held Erica's hand tightly as they went in, definitely not wanting to lose her in all this once it felt how intense the transition was. There was just enough time to wonder if maybe they should've assumed a configuration similar to how they'd gone down the other slides, but despite the split second of concern when Erica threw her hands up and they were no longer holding hands, its brain caught up to the fact that they had made it through and were now just standing in a grassy area.

It was quick to glance around in all directions, as if trying to take in the entirety of their environment as quickly as possible.

It had seemed like a better idea to start from the old family cottage outside the village before dropping Nihil in the chaotic streets of the Citadel. Erica hopped on her feet and began pacing around, her footsteps somehow producing no sound at all.

"We're up North here, so we get snow for most of the year. I don't know what here is called now, though. They've been renaming things since the zombie apocalypse ended."

There was a sort of detachment in her tone. Though there was no time to worry about that. They had nature to contemplate.

It was however good to watch their Pokémon work together and look out for each other. Echo gently got Spice's attention, letting her know her food was waiting by Erica. The Pumpkaboo was very thankful for the reminder and left Leofric be for a moment to go feast.

"You can play some more later." Erica told her. Spice purred in return.

"I find this arrangement satisfactory." Willow replied with a nod. She was fine with listening at least. Bill definitely wasn't stingy with information, she could stand to learn something new. For instance, the accordion was quite a choice for an instrument and yet she could tell from his stance that they were in for a nice show.

"You're quite charming yourself." she added quietly.

They had to give merit where it was due. It had been a while since the last time someone has been accepted by their group so quickly. After that last remark though, she would eat quietly as usual.

"Eh. Omen isn't too bad either." Fae joked.

Omen was indeed delighted by Selene's reaction. It was nice to be appreciated for the goofball that he was but he was just as much of a gentlemon. He thanked Selene, before taking the piece of bread from her and graciously eating it. They weren't in the woods, he couldn't be sloppy at this time, even if Erica was going to tease him about it later.

"I feel like something like that should have happened already. It's a good concept." Rook said, "You could make a whole team too."

There were other Pokémon that fit the description. It definitely was something that could be developed into a nice story by someone with the talent to cook up something awesome, as Fae would put it. Rook was fine with her own culinary skills, even though she couldn't quite take all those compliments.

"Thanks. I'm glad this all worked out…the bread is really good too."

She was ever so thankful she didn't blush easily.

"They're the light of my life." Fae replied as Maya received another pat on her little head. "But I'm going to shut up now. It's your time to shine!"

A truly wise decision, as Bill clearly knew his stuff. The ladies ate quietly, content with each other's company as well as the music. Their Pokémon seemed to appreciate it as well. Echo's ribbons waved along to the tune, happy to enjoy the music for what it was without having to perform. It was a wonderful moment that even left Spice completely mesmerized mid bite.

"You're really good at this." Rook said.

That much couldn't be denied. But even at such a wonderful time, Erica couldn't help growing restless and turned to Russell.

Most Pokemon trainers tended to travel after all, and weren't the type to put down roots for too long, or sometimes found themselves out in the wilderness with only nature to rely on.

Leofric did allow himself to smile softly as Spice decided to move away so she could get her food.

"I'll be here," Leofric assured the gourd Pokemon then, "Please enjoy the meal."

Leofric always had to admit that food often tasted better when it had been prepared with love and was savoured in good company.

"And that is good," Leofric agreed with Willow then, "Bill is always happy to hear that, and if you weren't satisfied, he would have tried to make sure you were through any other means possible."

Such as playing a different song. But for now, on knowing that everyone appeared to be happy with their food and sitting positions, especially as each Pokemon helped each other out with gathering or serving. But there was a little mischievous twinkle in his grey gaze at the 'charming' addition.

Selene's smile did warm a bit further at the way Omen seemed to be happy at his portion of food. She would gladly sit and eat with him once everyone was ready. Russell couldn't help but smile at that display as well. Selene and Omen were such great friends.

"We could write if no one else has taken the opportunity," Bill joked, "We have our own new team of superheroes and won't make a film franchise that just ends up going down the drain as they go on."

"Y-yeah, it is good," Russell agreed. It seemed he wasn't going to say much more than that. He had come to learn that Rook needed a break after such praise, as genuine as it was.

"Heh, no need to shut up at all," Bill said, "If you decide you want to hum or sing along, it's not only allowed, but encouraged."

Russell fell into a comfortable silence himself as he listened to music. It was always nice to have good food, and with good friends at that. Bill just kept playing, being guided by the music and his heart. He drifted from song to song in a medley, from the S.S. Anna to the buskers of Lumiose City to the Dance Hall in Ecruteak City.

But it wasn't all that long before Leofric, Russell, and everyone on their respective teams had eaten their fill of food. As Bill had promised, there was plenty left to put in containers for the ladies to heat up and eat while they were out travelling.

"I'm glad you've all enjoyed that," Bill said, smiling, "And I hope the food's been great for you too."

"Of course it has," Leofric replied.

"Y-yeah," Russell agreed, "I, I can help clean, clean up and, and put dishes away if, if you'd like."

"Oh don't you worry yourselves about that. I'll take care of it. You're my guests," Bill said, "And my team are more than happy to lend a hand, or a paw, or telekinesis."

Divine gave a nod and Princess curtsied to show their agreement. Morgawr lifted a flipper and then gave an exaggerated sheepish look, which Bill chuckled at.

Russell had agreed to let Erica see the pictures loaded onto the camera. He had managed to get some good shots of the Hypno as she had wandered through the woods, along with Morelull and some Impidimp lazing around eating berries.

Then there was the one of the Impidimp after they struck. It had most likely taken the selfie by accident, but it was still a rather good photograph, all things considered. There was one of the Hypno standing over a sleeping Russell as well.

"Heh, as, as much as, as I, I hate to say it, that, that one is, is pretty good as, as well," Russell said, on seeing that.

"Indeed. Although I'd be happy to be repaid for my time." Willow added, "A box of pastries should be a fair fee."

Such demands were only increasing the respect of her new team member. Hypno was certainly going to remember this practice. Trainers still spent a good time out in the wilderness, supplies were bound to always be limited and they couldn't say no to extras. The way Willow provided for them was commendable.

Spice, on the other hand, was perfectly at ease. The food was amazing and that brought her so much joy she couldn't help kicking her legs a little, a gesture that was more common than one would expect. Omen was doing the same while he got ready to tell Selene about all the amazing food she had to try sometimes.

"Yeah, you got it. The big media don't care about art." Fae agreed somberly, "But it sounds like you got yourselves a new fun project to work on and maybe I'll do just that."

After all, who cared about eating food while it was still warm? Fae gladly joined in, humming and then singing along with the music. She would take some compliments while Rook enjoyed her break from the general attention. The music helped ease her nerves as it slowly started to sink in that she had somehow made new friends in less than a day. Rook quietly finished her meal, then allowed Thea to rest her head on her lap to enjoy some well deserved scratches.

"I think we're only allowed to help with the fun stuff." she told Russell.

Which was convenient because it allowed them to look through Russell's pictures sooner. Erica chuckled at the accidental selfie. Impidimp were so goofy they could be forgiven for their pranks.

Hypno inevitably joined, wondering what the machine Russell carried around really did. Porygon stopped buzzing around Errol to return to Willow, knowing she would gladly explain everything. Needless to say, Hypno was left fascinated.

"Yep! Russell is really good at this." Erica agreed, "And it isn't too bad you got interrupted, uh? I don't think there are many photos of Hypnos doing their thing."

Porygon let out a low whistle, noticing how that was a rather scary image. Hypno frowned a little, but figured it had a point.

"All the ducks I know build their nests in the shrubs and keep their eggs there."

It seemed much easier than infesting brains. Though Erica didn't seem to mind the question. Nihil couldn't know what things were like elsewhere. She figured this would have been best discussed without her tail getting soaked and got out of the water.

"Alright, I can show you my trees. You'll have to hold my hand in there. It's really dark in the shadows and it'd take me a while to find you again in the void."

A crack began forming on the nearest wall, revealing a swirly shadowy portal. Erica gave a shrug while she pointed at their ominous way out.

The only real living ducks it had heard of were the ones it had been referring to, so it hadn't known what to expect.

It climbed out of the pool, twisting around itself and wringing itself out like a hagfish before approaching Erica, already ready to take her hand.

Nihil was not unaccustomed to extreme darkness. It was also not unaccustomed to spaces you could get hopelessly lost in so it knew better than to tempt fate on that.

The sudden crack in the wall was quite impressive though.

The plan to rehabilitate ducks in Nihil's eyes was already ongoing. Still, Erica had to stop to admire the way it was wringing itself out. That must have felt great. Perhaps it was half pool noodle after all.

Her shadow door didn't seem much in comparison when she just had to will one into existence. She shrugged at the question.

"They say it's an advanced trick but it's the first thing I learned. I think I'm slightly above average for now. My teacher is way stronger than me." Erica grabbed Nihil's hand, before stepping in the portal, "Off we go!"

They would be mostly going down for now as the shadows were apparently fitted with slides as well. The trip would be intense but short, taking them through the void and out into a grassy backyard with flowers and trees all around. Erica threw her hands up right as a butterfly attempted to land on her hat.

"It’s quite alright, Simon. I'm sure you will break out of your core eventually." Willow said, "Not that it ever stopped me from approaching my kind. I should visit you sometimes, perhaps bring a few offerings such as that ice cream you enjoy so much."

Veronica needed help finding her way to her next unfortunate victim. She would be serving a greater purpose there as well.

"Yes. Let us be on our way. This rain is terrible for my hair."

While the pocket didn't have the ability to dry them up, it was still good to get out of the rain and the sudden show made the stroll to Bill's place more pleasant. Lucien was very glad they had a way to drown out Cassandra. Ignoring her while she tried to insult him in a meaningful way was probably the best way to handle her.

"Ignore her, Russelll you're the bravest person I know." Lucien said quietly, "Besides, she doesn't know I used to wrestle bears for fun. I'm not afraid of her."

Not to mention his father's way of teaching him a lesson was a lot harsher. He couldn’t be intimidated by the threat even if he tried.

"Just a little longer now."

There was of course great care as Lucien helped bring Russell to the couch. He couldn't help wondering if it had been the same back when he had been the one in Russell's place, right after Five's first visit. This was simply unforgivable.

"Look at that, we have analogue and wireless multitasking." Still, Rook was glad to have Bill there and squeezed his hand a little. "It's fine. You don't have to stick with me while I'm sitting. I'm a tougher birb than it looks."

It was going to be a while before she could have her leg checked. She could give up on moral support for a few minutes while the others got themselves sorted.

Veronica definitely appreciated the jolly cooperation between Bill and Antonio as well, before focusing on what Leofric had to say.

"I suppose I shouldn't be surprised they tried every toxin at their disposal." Veronica mused, "Clearly, Five has learned nothing from our last encounter."

"Don't forget the part about the ugly visions of Russell's past." Fae added, "We had to sing to drown it out. By the way, you did great, Travis! Let's get some snacks before maman can have a look at you."

"That is concerning." Veronica said as she reached into her bag for a tiny jar. "I will handle the situation here while you go gather your supplies. Do let me know if you're short on anything."

"I can help." Erica pulled out her own little first aid kit, "But Antonio was bleeding."

"I understand." Veronica was quiet as her eyes took on a red glow, "Let me just have a look here, then I'll be with you."

There was no doubt Russell was in the worst shape. A quick glance let her know that Lucien's visible apprehension was more than justified, though she could have done without a fussing half fae.

"I'm afraid you will have to wait a little longer, Russell. You had more than your fair share for today, the next concoction better be the right one."

Unfortunately, Five's toxins had the pesky characteristic of being extremely difficult to eradicate even in small amounts. Hopefully the solution wasn't going to deplete their supplies too much or they were going to have a major problem in the long run. She could however tend to that nasty wound left by the cuff. Veronica gently took Russell's hand and began spreading some ointment from the jar around the wound.

"Likewise, you shouldn't have your boyfriend worry about you and let me work without protest."

The remark was aimed at Lucien, though it was kept vague on purpose. The message was received at least. Lucien sat down so his leg could be looked at. Veronica nodded in approval, before getting some bandages out.

"Heh, you can count on that," Simon said, smiling at the humour Willow used there, "But you'll be welcome to come on by, whether you bring ice cream or just yourself. I just hope you don't mind snails or hermit crabs."

"He's got some as pets," Travis elaborated.

"I admit, it's not so good for mine myself," Antonio agreed with Willow, as he carefully moved a wet curl that had been plastered to his cheek.

Russell had been doing his best to keep his eyes away from Cassandra as much as possible. The fact he couldn't hear her as well definitely helped. She did occasionally shout at Travis and try to hurl insults at him, but of course, he couldn't see or hear her at all, so he was completely unaffected.

"Th-thank you," Russell always found those sorts of compliments hard to believe, especially right now, in this sorry state that he had found himself in. But he still appreciated the efforts and Lucien being there for him, "I'm, I'm just sorry you, you gotta, you gotta hear and, and see that, that too."

It appeared that Cassandra had given up on trying to say anything. So all she did was silently glower at Russell, Travis, and everyone else around her for the time being. Russell did his best to avoid her hateful gaze, keeping on Lucien and the rest of the friends that surrounded them.

"Heh, a bit of vintage and modern," Bill joked, "The evil wizard is using his powers for good rather than casting fireball before checking the size of the room. Hey, I'm not here because I have to be."

Antonio did chuckle a little bit at the joke himself. Bill returned the squeeze and gave Rook a small smile. But it wasn't long before mugs were also placed down in preparation for hot drinks, and the snacks were placed where they needed to be for everyone.

"I'm here because I want to be," Bill then added.

"It doesn't surprise me myself," Leofric said, "Oddly enough, it didn't seem to be Five's idea."

"Yeah, he seemed to be completely surprised by what happened, and a bit pissed about it," Simon suggested, "But happy to be getting into a fight all the same."

"Sounds good to me," Travis said, "Thanks, Fae. You were amazing in there, and I will admit that singing your heart out can be hungry work, especially when you combine that with fighting bad people and climbing stairs."

"I appreciate that too," Antonio said.

"I will be back shortly, and thank you, Veronica, I will," Leofric said. With that, he disappeared entirely, leaving no trace of himself behind.

"I always found that skill a bit freaky," Bill admitted then, "Freaky but useful."

"I, I under, I understand," Russell managed to say then, "Th-thank you for, for the help. I, I still, I still ap-appreciate it."

"Look at all of these people wasting their time, energy, and supplies on you," Cassandra said, "You're a waste of space, air, and life, let alone everything else everyone here is giving you."

Russell felt his skin crawl and shame bubble in his stomach on hearing her words. They were all too familiar, and often felt true, especially now, despite years of not hearing them.

"I'm, I'm sorry..." Russell only said then.

If he hadn't been captured, no one would have put themselves in danger, their supplies wouldn't be wasted trying to get Five's toxic crap out of his body, and they wouldn't have been hurt trying to get him back. He really was a burden.

"Oh no, I know that look," Simon said, "Russell, she's not there, you know she's not, and none of what you're hearing her say is true."

"Sor-sorry," Russell repeated, "It, it just, it just feels real, even though I, I know it, it isn't."

He was relieved to feel the pain in his wrist start to fade as the balm was applied to it. Maybe if he focussed on Veronica and everyone else here, Cassandra would be easier to ignore again.

Just as Lucien sat down, Leofric reappeared, as if out of nothing at all. He was carrying his doctor's bag, and that had most likely been enchanted too, given that he was already taking what should have been an impossible amount of items out and placing them on the nearby table.

"I was going to say that even after this, helping to treat the wounds and the intoxication, a week of recovery minimum would most likely be optimal," Leofric suggested.

But then he seemed to be done, an array of ingredients and concoctions of different colours, scents and components sat on the table, along with equipment and grimoires.

"I've marked the pages I feel will be most beneficial to us," Leofric then told Veronica, "But I feel this also what I believe will be most efficient to making a start on getting the toxins out of Russell's body. I've also brought healing supplies for everyone else here as well, for those who were injured."

It would have been nice to discover the game together, if anything. They all needed to unwind and if gaming was what would have kept Rook from overworking her sore leg, then Veronica would have definitely been persuaded to try.

"Yes, I'm aware of that." Willow replied, "Having pondered whether I would enjoy the company of a pet for the longest time, I find Simon's choices most fascinating."

Hermit crabs didn't really stray far from their assigned spaces and didn't have the ability to hide within the walls of the facility. Smokey usually didn't leave Erica's side for long but she didn't really want to rearrange an entire floor just to find a mischievous pet.

"I for one am glad I don't have to share whatever dreadful vision Russell is experiencing. My users are more than enough."

"It's not as awful right now that she finally shut the hell up." Lucien told Willow, "But it's still a sacrifice I'm willing to make if it means not leaving you alone, Russell. You'll get rid of her for good soon enough."

That much was warranted when both the best healers in town were on the case. All was left to do now was to sit and wait to hear what unpleasant concoction they would have to put together to fight Five's toxic cocktail.

"Yes, the evil wizard is teaming up with the tickle monster." Rook joked, "And I'm here because I have to bring my playful companionship to the mix."

Someone still had to be a menace while they licked their wounds. Rook used her own powers to help herself to some cookies. Some sugar would sooth her sore leg.

"So I'm not just seeing things, uh? Something about this whole thing felt off from the start." Rook said between bites, "Five was having a blast fighting Leofric, but this isn't really his way of doing things. We've seen the stuff he can pull, what happened to Russell isn't really professional."

It probably wasn't the best way to put it but this whole encounter had been far from the usual plans Five loved orchestrating. Leaving Ratchet to his demise was really the only familiar element.

"So I guess he really jumped off the building when things got difficult. I hope he landed in a garbage truck."

"So they're divorcing, big deal. It's probably best for everyone in the long run, don't you think?" Fae said, giving a shrug before looking at Travis, "Oh, I hardly did much, you were the star in there. So you deserve some sugar to make up for all that rushing, no disgusting milkshakes, and you'll have to let Tails patch your leg up."

Erica opened her first aid kit to reveal a small jar of the same concoction Veronica was using. "Put some of this on, then I'll wrap it."

She wasn't going to take a no as an answer. Erica's ears twitched when Leofric took his leave, but didn't say much otherwise.

"Ah, the mysterious trickery that lets you abandon a room through walls unfitted for the task. I can't imagine what that would feel like." Veronica mused, before nodding at Russell, "Of course. Try to rest in the meantime and don't hesitate to speak up if you need anything."

She was aware that was a major request when it came to Russell, but Veronica cared very little for Cassandra's opinion, whether it was a hallucination or the real deal. She didn't let go yet before glancing at Lucien. The half fae man understood the request without her needing to utter a single word.

"She's right there." he replied. Veronica clicked her tongue, unleashing her fire breath in the direction he was pointing at.

"Well then, let's have a look at the other lovebird." Veronica moved on to examine Lucien's leg, "Oh, it's just a scratch. You'll ready to fuss over Russell in no time."

Lucien's leg received the same treatment as before, which he returned with a mildly annoyed look.

"I will gladly do so and I won’t take a no from an answer, my love." Lucien said, "You did the same for me and for much longer, it will be no trouble at all."

"Welcome back, Leofric. You came at just the right time, I'm all out of colored bandaids." Veronica greeted him, "I will have a look at your grimoires in just a moment. Would you mind assisting Antonio in the meantime? I have little experience with tails."

She absolutely needed to brush up, though. Veronica got to reading in no time, glad Leofric had already selected the material for her. Five was always such a pain to deal with. Everything had to be so specific.

"I have a feeling this won't be as simple as last time. While we have ways to destroy the toxins, Russell doesn’t heal normally anymore." Veronica said, summoning her own notebook, "Perhaps we should focus on jumpstarting his regeneration and increase the recovery rate as much as possible. Do you have anything we can use on hand?"

"I'm right here, if you need me." Rook said.

A good dose of boldness was also necessary to get around the way she did. Though she took the time to listen, as it sounded like this was very important to Nihil.

"Oh, yeah, I get it." Some understanding nodding followed. "Well, my place isn't very lively anymore, but I could take you along sometimes. We can visit all kinds of places and I'll show you some real ducks!"

"Those ducks don't implant their babies into your head do they?" What? Maybe it was... better not to question that.

"All the ducks I know build their nests in the shrubs and keep their eggs there."

It seemed much easier than infesting brains. Though Erica didn't seem to mind the question. Nihil couldn't know what things were like elsewhere. She figured this would have been best discussed without her tail getting soaked and got out of the water.

"Alright, I can show you my trees. You'll have to hold my hand in there. It's really dark in the shadows and it'd take me a while to find you again in the void."

A crack began forming on the nearest wall, revealing a swirly shadowy portal. Erica gave a shrug while she pointed at their ominous way out.

It was an intense but fun ride that deserved to end with a flip. Getting soaked really was the last of Erica's concerns. Her clothes were designed to handle her enthusiastic ways of experiencing environments. She would dry up quickly as soon as she got out.

"This is great! And then you have all those pool toys and you don't have to pick them up when you're done!"

It was the perfect vacation spot, really. And with all that water, Erica simply had to splash Nihil.

It opened its mouth to say something only to get a face full of water. It spit a stream of the water back in her direction.

However, despite all the fun and games a pool-themed world seemed to promise, the answer to her question was a more somber one.

"Ever since I first saw wanderers I wanted to know what other worlds were like. The Frontrooms sounds so lively. It'ssss.... actually kind of lonely here sometimes."

A good dose of boldness was also necessary to get around the way she did. Though she took the time to listen, as it sounded like this was very important to Nihil.

"Oh, yeah, I get it." Some understanding nodding followed. "Well, my place isn't very lively anymore, but I could take you along sometimes. We can visit all kinds of places and I'll show you some real ducks!"