The ASPERTIA Team

Cheshire was able to barrel-roll his way out of the Stoutland's grasp, finishing it off as he dug his fangs into the Undead. But he just continued to rip it to pieces, tearing it with his fangs. Oz felt his jaw drop, did he really have to do that in front of Alice? There were other Undead to deal with to vent your anger! The rain continued to pour, water dripping from the ceiling due to the massive amout. Thunder can be heard from the inside of the gy- wait, thunder? The Jolteon's face slightly brightened, they didn't have to spend that long fighting them. Oz glanced around, finding the Glaceon taking down a Leafeon in a few seconds, he did have the type-advantage afterall. The rain, they came from outside, so... they must be dripping wet!

Alice, where's Alice? Oz watched as the Lopunny threw the Eeveelutions back outside, as if hoping to lock them out the gym. They were annoying though, why not just kill them on the spot? Alice... She looked scared, her eyes wide in terror as she pushed off the Undead. Why is that? Did they frighten her? The Electric-type threw a Shadow Ball at a nearby Espeon, his emerald green eyes glued on the Rabbit Pokemon. He watched as she frantically glanced from horde to Cheshire. Wait, why Cheshire...? It struck him, the blood covering Cheshire. Alice, she never saw anything bad in this world, not until now. It was by now that she had seen the true face of the Apocalypse. Their conditions, their society. Is that why she's afraid? Or is it that something came into her mind?

Dizziness made Alice weak on her feet, yet she still continued to stand. Why? She was facing a horde of Undead, yet as she watched the Fresh Snow Pokemon handle the Stoutland... She remembered something terrifying. It was the day Alice had lost everything. Cheshire covered with blood, it was in her room, her tower room. The Glaceon's right eye socket completely empty. Murkrow's feathers covered the place. The Lopunny threw herself off the tower shortly afterwards, but the reason was still foggy to her. Cheshire, was her friend. That special friend, it's confirmed it was the Eevee and the Glaceon in the tower room was him. She could recognize that bell anywhere. Yet, why did he lay dead on the floor? Who killed him? The Lopunny returned to reality as a Leafeon pounced on her, Alice throwing the Grass-type off immediately.

"Stand back!" Oz yelled, the Rabbit Pokemon stumbled backwards, glancing over at the Jolteon. Something's off about him, as if he was like water. Bringing everyone along with his flow. She watched as electricity danced on the strands of his yellow fur, his gaze fixed at the ceiling. As if the attack was natural... Alice is aware he barely trained, yet why did he use this attack with ease? As if he was experienced enough to take on a whole horde of Undead... She watched with awestruck as the bright streak of lightning struck down on the Undead, zapping most of them completely dead as they limply fell to the ground. Corpses, that's all that laid there, the rest of the Undead knew they stood no chance as they ran back into the rain and their forest with their tails between their legs. The Lopunny stared at Oz with horror. She's glad he had fought valiantly, yet why did her chest tighten?... Jack...? No...

Overwhelming power, Oz felt renewed and refresh as he took down a lot of Undead in one go. He felt like an entirely different Pokemon. The Jolteon glanced over at the Lopunny a funny grin he wore until he caught drift of the horror in her eyes. She remembered something didn't she? The Electric-type quickly padded over to her, worry in his eyes, "Is something wrong Al-?" He was cut off as he felt paws push him away. Oz's heart dropped as he began to feel useless. He watched Alice hold her head, hiding her face, "D-don't come near me!" The Jolteon stared at the Lopunny breathlessly, "Alice..."

"Just give me some time alone..." Oz frowned, dropping his gaze from her to the door... He should close it, but then with all the bodies littered in the Gym... Then again, they're just staying for one night right? They could tolerate it at least. "I'll go close the door." He sighed, sulking towards the gate. Oz stared emptily outside, where the Glaceon sat. Oh how much he wanted to close the doors right on his face, however... "Cheshire come here..." Alice called out, Oz glanced behind him and at the Lopunny, who just sat in the middle of the gym like a broken doll. He suppressed a sigh, what's so good about the Glaceon? He could kill them in their sleep!... Why couldn't she tell him what's wrong? He knew he should give her some space, but... Oz felt completely useless when his Sun hid behind the clouds, rain pouring down along with the tears. Just like today.

The others want Cheshire dead. Undead that won't help them get food? Then Cheshire was in their way. There's too many, too many for Cheshire to fight off, and the familiar smell of blood on their breath is heavy. Rainclouds gather in the twilight air and they pour down onto Aspertia, drenching the streets and the Undead in it with heavy water. Cheshire looks down at his paws, where his own blood gathers and washes down from his wounds. He remembers another day, seemingly long ago, when he woke up in the rain next to the tower. Alice. That was his reason to keep living, wasn't it? Alice really is loved, isn't she?

Cheshire has no time to act. A light glows from a familiar Jolteon in the gym. Suddenly, a bright, crooked pillar of light crashes down from the clouds, squarely hitting a different Glaceon, even more torn and bloody than Cheshire. It was burnt to a crisp despite the rain, its body scorched black and dead as it fell over into the puddles that quickly grew in size. But that was only one enemy; there was much more. Was that all the dog had to offer? But soon, Cheshire feels the burning that goes past his wet, bloodied fur, right through his body, and so does many of the other Undead. It doesn't hurt -- Cheshire can't hurt physically anymore -- but he coughs up dark blood onto the ground in front of him, many enemies quickly falling to the ground or fleeing.

Cheshire's scarf drags through the water and mud, his legs shaky. The burning feeling leaves, eventually, but it also leaves Cheshire feeling like a wooden board. He hacks and coughs, more blood spilling out and turning the rain red from both his wounds and his mouth. He sits down in silence on the dirt floor, letting the rain wash the wounds and the dark stains off of himself turning it back to his discoloured, bluish fur that was still spiky from the electric attack. Cheshire is confused. What is he here for again? Why is he fighting the Undead off? Because there is something he wants to protect. What is it that Cheshire wants to protect? It is his best friend. Cheshire wants to protect it. Cheshire wants to...

...kill Ali...

"Cheshire, come here..." a voice calls, snapping Cheshire out of his moment. He raises his head slowly, looking at Alice with his dark red eyes in silence for a moment, before he slowly gets up and begins trekking towards the gym's open doors. His bleeding paws and scarf ends drag in the wet dirt and stones, his fur getting more and more drenched by the second. Cheshire doesn't fear the cold of rain, but he dislikes its loneliness. He slips into the gym, padding in like a stray dog that the Lopunny found, giving a passing glare to Oz that looked more like a tired glance. Cheshire could be angry at the dog later. Instead, he just gives another hacking cough and curls himself up in the corner, letting himself bleed; it would eventually stop, at some point.

Cheshire had answers Alice seeks, and maybe just like good old times... he would be able to comfort her. The Lopunny watched the Glaceon drag himself back inside, dripping wet like a stray dog. Though it seemed like he was throwing a glare at Oz (Alice was damn well aware how terrible their relationship was), it was more like a tired glance as he trudged towards the corner. Something was off, however. Cheshire would usually ask Alice how she was at a time like this. He cough, the Lopunny slightly getting up from instinct before pausing, watching him. Cheshire curled up in the corner, being his anti-social self again, however... A pool of blood began to form underneath him. The Rabbit Pokemon widened her eyes, getting up as she quickly rushed over to Cheshire's side, "You're bleeding!" She gasped.

Alice inspected the Glaceon, shallow cuts and scratches scattered his side, however... What looked terrible was his left shoulder, which had a deep cut that looked as if it went down to the bone. She shuddered upon the sight of blood, but now was not the time for that! Though he was Undead, she didn't have to particular worry about him dying (She was aware that the only thing that could kill an Undead is by killing the brain). But he could still feel pain right?!... That was a question that always pondered across her mind for a while. Nonetheless, she glanced over at Oz, whom frowned as if asking 'What?' Alice returned that frown, pointing her fingers across the room, 'Help out! Find a first aid kit!' Though she was unsure if the Jolteon understood, he heaved a heavy sigh as he sulked across the room, digging through some rubble.

Oz felt his brain go fuzzy as he dug through the rubble, why would an Undead need a first aid kit? Wasn't Alice worrying a bit too much about him? The Electric-type paused, looking over his shoulder as the scene made him want to scoff. Alice looming over Cheshire, comforting almost. What exactly did Alice remember that made her so overprotective of him? So he was a part of her past? If so, what's their relationship? The Jolteon signed, continuing to dig through the rubble. His paws hit the dirty white box, with the well-known red cross on it. Pushing the rocks off of it and dusting off a bit, Oz carried the box between his teeth, silently padding over to the duo. "One first aid kit ready," Oz said, with less enthusiasm than the usual as he practically glared at Cheshire.

"Thank you Oz," The Lopunny replied rather bluntly, opening up the First Aid kit. She was rather glad she had three fingers to work with. Though they weren't as long as humans, she was able to do most chores they could do. Alice frowned upon what she found inside. The contents weren't all that fascinating as there were barely any to begin with, but it looks enough for about two of the three Pokemon. The Rabbit Pokemon stopped in her tracks, what about Oz? Alice couldn't use this on herself... She glanced over at the Jolteon, who stared at the box with curious eyes. He had a deep scratch on his back, but nothing else. The idiot must have hit against the ground pretty hard... Then again, Alice wasn't all that hurt. Just a couple of light scratches anyways.

She wasn't much of a doctor, but Cheshire wouldn't necessarily die due to infection from the wound?... He's already dead, but to Alice, he began to grow back alive. Nonetheless, she dismissed it, she'll just stop the blood so he wouldn't lose too much. The Lopunny grabbed the gauze and the towel rather hastily, using the towel to stop the blood. Though that was rather time consuming, she would wrap the gauze around the Glaceon as she soaked up the blood that covered his fur. He's getting a fucking bath later. It was rather neat for someone who barely had experience in the medical facility and practically rushed the whole thing, but nonetheless gave a small smile at her work. However, that smile faded as she gave a small glare at the Ice-type. More like sending a mental message of; 'Move an inch and I will fucking murder you', before moving over to Oz to heal his wounds.

[Ooc: I GOT PERMISSION TO TOUCH CHESHIRE ALL OVER. BI]

Cheshire doesn't care to give a second glance to Alice nor the yellow dog; he just wants to curl up and stay in his corner. He is not tired, he is not sleepy; Cheshire has already forgotten what both mean. With his head on his paws, he just watches the blood gather underneath and slowly drain away into the metal drain on the floor; it was why Cheshire chose the corner. Maybe Cheshire is dead and maybe Cheshire can't feel anymore, and he doesn't even remember Cheren's face but he knows this gym was precious to him. Cheshire looks away, his red gaze stuck to the metal-reinforced walls of the gym foyer, looking at all the scratches and dents that marked them. They were there before Aspertia City fell, and more appeared after all the pokémon became violent. There is no logic, and there is no reason; the Undead just wanted flesh and lusted for blood. Cheshire is different. Cheshire's avarice is of his fading memories of life.

"You're bleeding!" The gasp is sharp, and it comes from Alice. Cheshire begrudgingly turns his head; was it a problem? Cheshire couldn't suffer from blood loss, Cheshire couldn't suffer from wounds; he could only die if his very head or neck were crushed. Cheshire grimaces at a certain Stoutland: it came very close to doing that. He watches with apathy as Alice frantically and furiously points at the yellow dog. What use did the Jolteon have? Was she telling him to get out? Cheshire wouldn't mind that... much. Though he hates the creature called 'Oz', if Cheshire were alone, he might've not been able to protect his precious Alice. So Cheshire must feel grateful, even if it is begrudgingly. Oz brings over an off-white box carrying a crimson red cross. He puts it down with a sarcastic comment, before leering right at Cheshire. Cheshire bristles a bit and growls back; he doesn't think the dog should be thanked anymore.

Alice is hasty, as if she fears she'll be too late. For what? She grabs a towel and some other things from the off-white box and begins wiping the dark blood off of Cheshire. He stares with surprise at the Lopunny -- is she afraid that Cheshire will die? From blood loss? Though Cheshire is already dead? Bandages quickly cover the deepest cuts in his legs and body and gauze on his shoulder and back. Cheshire just stares at Alice with the same surprise on his face; even when she gives a small, stern glare right at him. Cheshire blinks and watches for a moment more, before turning his head around and letting it rest on his paws. "Alice... is as confusing as always," he mumbles, his eyes half-lidded. When Cheshire and Alice met each other again for the first time in over two months, Alice didn't recognize Cheshire. She wanted him gone, just like any other Undead. And now, she was helping to heal that very same creature that she wanted gone. Alice's memories must be very confused.

Cheshire's eyes follow Alice as she then moves on to Oz to begin helping him too. He thinks about how Alice has changed; she is still the same Alice, the same appearance, the same scent, the same look, the same haughty nature. But how she talks has changed, and though Alice was always lonely in the tower despite Cheshire being with her, she doesn't seem so now, does she? Alice doesn't show it very well, Cheshire doesn't think, but she seems happy, for once. The Glaceon looks away yet again, his ears sliding down to flatten down against his skull once more as he stares out the broken glass doors into the streets and woods of his home. Cheshire thinks he remembers a day or two when Alice and he were allowed out of the tower to take a walk around the area. Going into the town or into the buildings was always a fun dare, and Alice was very loved by the Aspertian children. Alice was a good girl, who would've probably never thought of a future like this, in a ruined world with ruined memories.

There was once a girl... and when she was good, she was very, very good...

Maybe Cheshire can feel tired. His eyelids are falling, though he doesn't want to sleep. Who will watch Alice when she sleeps? Who will protect her when she is weak? Cheshire promised to do that. It is Cheshire's job, no one else's... Not even the electric dog's. Alice was Cheshire's, his precious friend that he couldn't let get hurt. Cheshire remembers the words he first said, earlier in the day; Everything that made you sad, everything that made you hurt... Cheshire will destroy them; even if it means your memories. Cheshire will protect Alice, and he will keep her happy... But if ever her memories cause her to hurt, and Cheshire knows she will if she ever learns of the tragedy that occurred that night, then... Cheshire will have to kill Alice.

Cheshire's eyelids fall, and for the first time in months, he dreams. He dreams of a world with light and happiness, bordering a wasteland of darkness and evil. His Alice is gone, kidnapped away; she is in the clutches of the darkness that deepens every passing hour. The knight in shining armor stands in the glinting light, but he runs away when Cheshire chases him. Why won't the knight save Alice? Isn't that what a knight does? When Cheshire finally reaches him, the knight takes off his helm and Cheshire expects a kind face, a brave person who could courage through the thick darkness and run it through with light; but he finds out that there is nothing in that empty suit. It falls over off of the white Rapidash, which begins bleeding from the mouth and eyes turn red to match its darkening flames. Cheshire's world of light is falling apart and he is dragged into the darkness, too.

There is no such thing as a knight in shining armor.

No one can save Cheshire nor Alice from the dark.

"Alice... is as confusing as always," Cheshire commented. Alice said nothing as she disinfected Oz's wound, though she wondered if Cheshire needed this, she dismissed it as she began wrapping the Jolteon's back with gauze. Disinfectants are not needed since he's Undead, but even if he's just wrapped in gauze and doesn't have to worry about blood loss. The Lopunny still worried. Even though he's undead and will not die just out of blood loss, it made her think he's alive rather than dead. The Electric-type flinched on the pain, the Normal-type giving her apologies as she finished up. Alice casually looks over her shoulder, checking on the Glaceon and watching him go to sleep. Maybe now's the chance to find some food? Or should they just stay put and sleep? She heaved a heavy sigh, Gilbert wasn't around either, is something up with Seaweed head? Nonetheless, they'll look for the bastard tomorrow, as well as food. Meat would be nice, but hell no she ain't eating Undead meat.

Oz blinked, Alice began to pace in the middle of the room whilst the Jolteon just curled up in the corner opposite of Cheshire. Creepy ass bastard, the Electric-type couldn't help, but narrow his eyes every time he saw Alice's eyes lay on the Glaceon. What was the feeling? Anger? Irritation? Jealousy? Nonetheless, the Lopunny was restless, deep in her thoughts, was she catching up on her memories? Thinking about food? Worried for Gilbert?... Nah, impossible, she hated Gilbert, they bickered often and always the air was heavy between them. Oz slowly rose, wincing at the pain in his back before padding over to the Lopunny, looking up at Alice's confused violet eyes. She was gripping onto the golden pocket watch Oz had found very tightly. So she did catch up on her memories? But there was confusion, maybe she was troubled by something in her memories? She paid no attention to Oz, obviously deep in her thoughts.

Though Alice was ready to head to bed, she began pacing, her thoughts were jumbled up, but now seemed liked a good time to get her shit together. So far, Cheshire was her friend back then, her only friend up in that tower. Yet, for some reason, he refuses to tell her what happened in the past. And that Pokemon, Jack. What is he to Alice? He made her heart thump against her chest, yet at the same time, something seemed off about him. Foreboding even. As if he had something in mind as he watched Alice and Cheshire grow. Though Jack seemed like a kindred figure, inviting Alice to his garden in secret, introducing Alice to new friends [though she had no idea how well she got along with them, nor did she remember who they were], he was planning something in his mind. Alice had the feeling he was. But what was it? And why did Alice jump off her tower? Cheshire died, was that it? She then woke up with no memories and all the way in Castelia City and met up with Oz and Gilbert who were ready to go investigate manners on the Epidemic.

Her eyes widened, throughout this journey, she was so keen on getting to Aspertia that she diverted their attention from the Epidemic to this memory crisis. Though Alice firmly believed she was top priority throughout this time, maybe just maybe she had done wrong here. They would have gotten this Epidemic case solved if it weren't for Alice. If it weren't for Alice... The memory crisis could honestly wait, she could regain them with time, but the Epidemic... It was a case where everyone is affected, Alice should hold back, she shouldn't drag Oz and Gilbert into this mess. She shouldn't have begged them to drag her along so she could find out her memories, she shouldn't have been her- "Something the matter Alice?" Oz's voice shattered her thoughts, concern being obvious in his tone. Alice found herself gripping onto the golden pocket watch tight, sweat forming on her paws as she quickly let go of it. The Lopunny found Oz's familiar emerald green eyes; worry. That was the most obvious sign there was. Worry.

"Peachy fine," Alice scowled, hiding her anxiety and fear, "Go to sleep manservant!" She glanced around, her eyes caught sight of a rock about the size of a good tennis ball. Immediately she grabbed it, flinging it at the ground near Oz. The Jolteon jumped, "Okay, okay!" He hopped away, tail between his legs back to his corner, curling up with both of his eyes closed. Though when Alice turned around to find a suitable sleeping spot, she could feel his eyes staring at her back. Stupid manservant! Ruining everything!

He smiled slightly, Alice cheered up at least. With one eye slightly open, he watched the Lopunny curl up in the middle of the room, surrounded by rubble as if making a fort. Childish, but she must feel protected that way. Though, he did wonder what's going on through her mind. What's she thinking? Is she still thinking those thoughts? Those memories? Or is she just plain out irritated at Oz for ruining her thoughts? Gilbert did comment how Alice had a one track mind, but Oz, however, thought she had lots of things in her mind. She just wanted to focus on one thing so she could escape from those horrid thoughts. He heaved a heavy sigh, there's no way he could figure out what goes through the Rabbit Pokemon's mind, it was like a maze rather than a steady path. Oz screwed both of his eyes shut, forcing himself to sleep. It was soon did a wave of darkness take over his consciousness, a dreamless sleep he had that very night.

[[Ooc: We sleep pretty damn early. Time skip?]]

It was the early hours, and Cheshire laid with his head down on his paws above the gym's roof, his eyes half-lidded yet not by sleep. The Glaceon had woken up when the sun had just begun peering into the privacy of night. Though Cheshire had already forgotten what he had dreamed of, yet the hollow feeling that Cheshire felt was unreal. For two months since Cheshire died, he has not 'felt' anything. Not emotion, not loneliness, not pain. Even if his hisses and growls at the Undead were angry and harsh, it just seemed natural that the Glaceon should act that way; that it was Cheshire's duty to protect his only city, his only home. Only his and Alice's. This ghost city no longer had no reason to exist; there were none to live in it, and none to keep it alive. The living that had been the supports and beams of Aspertia were dead and gone, and replaced with only one last: Alice's memories. And once they were gone, once Alice had discovered the truth and possibly destroyed it all... Aspertia would be gone. What was it that Cheshire wanted to do? Aspertia did not just contain Alice's memories; it was made of Alice's memories, the only living thing left to feed on.

Cheshire closes his eyes as the birds chirp and sing a song in the trees, the sound echoing through the quiet, blue-sky day. How could such an empty town have such beautiful weather? The grass blades wore tresses of clear, glittering dew, dancing in the wind with the butterflies that came to rest on the flowers that dotted the soil. Cheshire's home was still beautiful, even after all that had happened; it was the city of development and evolution. Anything that hadn't been targeted as a potential meal by Undead, if not turned into Undead themselves, kept carrying on with their survival, and so the trees, the grass, and the earth continued living on. Maybe that's what this means, Cheshire thought dully, wrinkling his nose. Everything is going to die, anything that moves and lives like Cheshire, but not like the trees. Not like the earth. A rebirth. But what does he know? Cheshire is already a victim. Cheshire had been up and outside long before Alice and the yellow dog were, having moved through the glass panels and down to the sun-warmed pavement when the other two were still softly snoring, because Cheshire can't sleep like them. Cheshire doesn't live like them. He doesn't need the sleep. The bandages are wrapped tight around Cheshire's limbs, flanks, and the gauze presses and weighs his fur down. He doesn't need the empathy. He doesn't feel the pain that they do.

Instead, Cheshire jumps down from the roof, fed up with his lazy sunbathing. Cheshire's paws land on soft grass and soil that is damp and springy from the last twilight's rain. Cheshire closes his eyes; what is he supposed to do? He can't leave Alice, no -- Cheshire was much too afraid that the Queen of Hearts may take her away. That was why he hadn't gone anywhere at all that day, despite the growing hunger in Cheshire's belly; sure, he had taken a chunk out of the Stoutland and some others from the night, but did he actually eat it? Their blood was black and flesh tainted with the virus, past rotten meat and practically being compost. Of course not. Even Undead had their tastes, that fresh tasted better and old meat was just as undesirable to an Undead as it was to an uninfected one. Cheshire couldn't just go off and leave Alice alone, and even if he did, how could he eat in front of them, without Alice [or even more likely, the yellow dog] calling him an Undead monster again and chasing him away? Cheshire was always lonely, and now he had someone. Cheshire is not keen on letting his only friend go very easily.

Cheshire's head turns, his ears flicking; the melody of wild birds hum in the wind as he stares at the gym's walls. Were Alice and Oz still asleep? Were they still dreaming? Cheshire wonders what others dream of -- it's been a long time since Cheshire had last dreamt, and even the one of last night he no longer remembered. A soft breeze blows through Cheshire's fur and he lets it, his collar's bell lightly chiming. Only yesterday, he would've thought the wind as an annoyance, but now... it felt sort of nice. Was it possible? Was Cheshire coming back alive? His ears fall along with the force of the light breeze, looking downwards. 'Alive'... that is a word Cheshire has not even thought of for weeks, months. It was odd, being 'alive' without a heartbeat. In silence, Cheshire sits on the pavement outside the gym, his eyes slowly looking around the area, taking the place of a guard-dog in the early sunlight.


[Time skipped to early morn, yo. B]]

Anyone would expect a regular morning on a fine day of an apocalypse as a terrifying scream from outside or a zombie striding in and tripping balls like a derp. But Alice, she enjoyed this peaceful morning. She reunited with an old friend [despite getting off on the wrong foot, but they got along just fine], she didn't have to worry about losing herself, and that stupid Honchkrow isn't around to nag her on how stupid the Lopunny was or how she treats Oz unfairly! She had been awake for quite a while, but chose to just stay in her spot and relax. She spent most of last night worrying and all that crap, but time seemed infinite in such a dead world. So why not use that time at her leisure? That would be just like a dream! Nope, just nope. Time isn't infinite like her dreams, and the world isn't that easy-going. Alice forced herself up on her feet, glancing over her shoulder only to see where Oz had once slept now empty. The stupid manservant didn't even bother to wake her up!

Then again, where was Cheshire? He wasn't even in the opposite corner when she had woken up either. The Rabbit Pokemon feared Cheshire and Oz constantly bickering could evolve into something more... But no way, the Glaceon wouldn't harm her friend right? They would all be friends together, though it was always just her and the Ice-type back then when she still lived in that very tower. As she padded around the gym, she mostly looked around, taking in all the details though it was not technically needed as she might sleep in her tower home the next night... Unless Cheshire doesn't allow it. She frowned, why didn't he let her go in? Did she do something wrong? He said something about preventing Alice from getting her memories, but just being at this place, some memories just flow back to her naturally. She glanced up at the rooftop, there were still pieces of the roof crumbled off, maybe Cheshire went up there? She remembered his fondness of climbing on top of things.

The Glaceon sat outside, everything seemingly handy dandy for him as became the guard-dog for Alice. From the very corners of the forest did Oz rest his emotionless eyes on the Ice-type. What's his relationship with Alice? When they first met, everyone were hostile with each other, now the Lopunny went all friendly with him and Oz had no choice but to follow along! The Jolteon let a low growl escape his throat, but not loud enough for Cheshire to hear. He looked over his shoulder from the direction he came from; the tower. Before everyone awoke, the Electric-type went ahead to investigate the area. Obviously the Fresh Snow Pokemon wouldn't let him go through, so mind as well take advantage. But he didn't dare go in, something was off about the place, and it was damn obvious. It was the thing Cheshire didn't want Alice to find out, remembering the Glaceon's outburst on how he didn't want Alice to remember, it made Oz curious but now... He didn't even want to know what happened in that very tower that made Alice forget everything.

"Everything that made you sad, everything that made you hurt... Cheshire will destroy them... even if it means your memories!" The words behind the Glaceon's outburst, what could they possibly mean? Destroying memories is an impossible task unless... Oz's eyes widened in realization, his eyes shifting its gaze from the Ice-type over to the gym where Alice should have been. Is this guy serious...? If he wanted to protect the Lopunny... The Jolteon shook his head, pushing the thoughts away. Impossible, he was just jumping to conclusions now. Though he didn't budge a bit from his spot, his emerald-green eyes caught sight of a fluff of black coming out of the gym and behind Cheshire. Ohoho... This'll be good...

As Alice carefully sneaked up behind Cheshire, she had her battle plan laid out in her brain; she's going to surprise the Glaceon, point out about the scarf, they'll laugh about the good old days, and perhaps squeeze out some information of her past out of him! It was a golden plan! Though honestly, how would he react to getting frightened? Especially in the apocalypse, he might attack before looking... But then again, Alice was around, the Glaceon would have the right mind to at least look before attacking right? Right. With a gulp, she drew in a quick breath before pouncing on the Glaceon, his fur ice-cold compared to the Rabbit Pokemon's warm paws, "Boo!" She said rather loudly, a playful tone obvious in her voice.

Everything seems good and quiet. Cheshire lets his eyelids close once more, taking in useless breaths of air that fills his empty chest. The city looks peaceful in the morning, even though it really isn't; Cheshire might as well take advantage of the good day. Despite the freezing touch of both ice and death that lingers on his fur, the sun makes Cheshire feel warm and, daresay, safe. How long has it been since Cheshire appreciated such things? Surely it has been a long while. The sun is shining, and everything is dying. Right. That sounds like a perfect scenario of a good day, here in Cheshire's life. His eyelids slowly opening, Cheshire stares once again at the tall tower that stands like a giant in the distance, having a body of stone and a base of dense forest and grass. Cheshire knows that at the feet of the tower, there is a beautiful rose garden -- or, Cheshire supposes, there was. Cheshire has been there. The rose garden is no more. One of the last gifts Jack had to offer is gone. Just another thing the infection has taken away from Cheshire.

Cheshire stands up with stiff, bandaged legs with a soft sigh. There is nothing to do outside other than think; and Cheshire doesn't like to think about what is in the past, the present, or the future. They are all unpleasant; death is everywhere. Cheshire will go back to the gym, and he will check on Alice and the dog -- yes, that would be a good idea to go with. A loud voice and a sudden push on Cheshire distracts him, though, and naturally, Cheshire responds with a loud hiss, struggling and immediately flipping the attacker over onto their back. Who is it? Another Undead, trying to sneak in during the early morning for an easy meal? Cheshire won't let that happen; Cheshire made a promise, a promise to protect Alice. Anything that gets in the way of Alice's happiness, Cheshire will destroy. But the creature under Cheshire's paws is not fighting back, it is not spitting with malice and blood. It is Alice herself. Slowly, the sound registers in Cheshire's mind; the loud voice was Alice's voice, yelling "Boo!"; the push was Alice's playful paws, prodding him in the side.

A frown on his face, Cheshire steps back and off of Alice. What was Alice thinking? Cheshire could've attacked Alice and done worse, even hurt her. His ears flatten low and the bristle on his bluish fur dies down and Cheshire watches Alice ruefully. "Why did Alice do that? Cheshire could've hurt Alice," he mumbles. Cheshire is supposed to be Alice's white knight, not her Queen of Hearts. But who could save Alice when nobody could save Cheshire? Cheshire is simply Cheshire and nothing more; a fox that holds answers that are just barely out of reach. With a sigh, Cheshire looks away. Cheshire should greet Alice 'good morning!'; but Cheshire has long stopped caring for greetings like that. After all, there was no one to say it to until now. Even if Cheshire turned around to share the sunrise or the full moon, Cheshire could've said 'Look...' and there would've been no reply. Would everything change now that Alice has returned back to Cheshire's Wonderland? Cheshire's Abyss?

Alice does make Cheshire think, though. Before the fight, Alice was more leaning toward the yellow dog for help and support; she even chose to save the Jolteon before Cheshire, leaving Cheshire to save himself from being crushed and killed again. But then, after that, Alice chose to heal Cheshire first, even though Cheshire is dead and surely won't suffer [much] from such wounds in his body. What made Alice change? What made Alice want to help Cheshire? The Glaceon asks the question with a croaking throat, looking unsure of himself. How much does she remember? Barely any? Too much? "Does -- Did Alice remember? Did Alice remember who Cheshire is?" Cheshire questions, his low voice cracking a little near the end. It had only been a day; Cheshire would like to spend more time with Alice. If she does not remember, then Cheshire must keep protecting Alice, especially from returning to the Tower; and if she does, Cheshire would have to protect her still, in a different way. But what would Cheshire do if Alice was gone?... But of course. Cheshire couldn't live without his Alice, his best friend. Cheshire would follow Alice everywhere without hesitation, whether on through life or on the path to death.



[Got permission to step all over Alice, yo.]

Though the reaction was expected, she still let out a surprised yelp as Cheshire suddenly jumped on her -- pinning her down. She watched with a playful smirk as realization began to struck him, letting the Lopunny get up before he could do anything more. As she got up, she watched the Glaceon's ears flatten, the hairs standing up on end now calm. "Why did Alice do that? Cheshire could've hurt Alice," He mumbled. She let a giggle escape her, but said nothing more. Oz frowned at the scene as he watched. They were having a good time, Alice was smiling, her light radiating, but... he suppressed a sigh, he was no part of it. The Lightning Pokemon was not a part of the reason for her laughter. By now he would have jumped in, being the cockblocker he was, but the tension seemed high. It was obvious Alice wanted to say more than just a simple loving pounce on the back. Cautiously, he continued watching, making no sign of moment.

Before Alice could continue, however, Cheshire seemed deep in thought, one where she could not disturb him. The silence was broken when he began to question the Lopunny, "Does -- Did Alice remember? Did Alice remember who Cheshire is?" Remember? Her memories he meant? She rose a brow, but heaved a sigh as she gave a smile. Cheshire would be disappointed that Alice doesn't remember him, but the truth is that she did now, "I do remember Cheshire... Special friend..." She paused, glancing up at the sky. Throughout her days in the tower, she remembered looking up at the sky. She was a shut-in most of the time, but she was fine with it. As long as she got to see a piece of the outside world; like the sky. "But that is all I remember at the moment." She lied, however, she remembered Cheshire being her friend, but she knew much more than that. Though she did not remember his reason for dying on her, she remembered Jack and how he brought in some friends. Though she didn't remember quite clearly whether they were friends or not. But he always brought company with them. Before she could go on, her eyes were attracted to the yellow pelt that trotted their way; Oz.

"What'cha guys talkin' about~?" The Jolteon chimed, butting into the conversation. He had a goofy grin on his face, the same fake one he always worn. He couldn't bear to stay on the sidelines any longer. Though the tension was still high, he didn't want the Glaceon to be alone with Alice. There must times where he would go hungry, possibly think about eating the Lopunny! It sickened him. Yet... He was keeping secrets from himself, he knew deep inside that wasn't the only reason he butted in. Was it because he felt uneasy about Alice around Cheshire in general? Or the fact she smiled much more often around him than Oz? He could be just imagining things... But nonetheless, better have her away from the Glaceon. "Nothing much," Alice frowned in response, as if she expected Oz to nose into her business [though he was trying too], "What about you? What are you doing so early in the morning?" He blinked at Alice's question, casually glancing from her to Cheshire then back to the Lopunny before answering. If the Glaceon were aware that Oz went over to the tower to investigate, he would have definitely killed him, "Investigating the city. I didn't check out some houses though, nor the city's lab..." He paused, "Wanna come with? I would have went around looking for Gilbert, but he could find his way back to us I suppose."

Alice was flabbergasted upon how Oz seemed so oddly determined to part with the Honchkrow. She'd expected the answer to be him looking around for Seaweed head, but she guessed wrong... Then again, it would be awkward if things were to just be Alice and Cheshire, despite them being old friends and such. The thought about looking around for some clues of the dead rising though... It made her curious, perhaps she could find a cure? Then again, the Glaceon was probably dead to start off with, if she were to find a cure, he would just return to bones wouldn't he? She didn't want that. He had the key to her memories, and he was also a close personal friend whom she always shared everything with. No way is she letting that go so easily! "How about we find Gilbert?" She asked, coughing awkwardly. Oz would probably be appalled at the thought she suggested to go find birdbrain. Especially considering the amount of bickering they go through each day; last night was probably the most quietest time. The Jolteon responded with a puzzled look, but [surprisingly] turned to Cheshire, that same goofy grin stuck to his face, "What about you Cheshire? What do you want to do?"

Oz had it all thought out. He was going to find out what laid up in that tower. For Alice. She wanted to learn her memories badly enough that she even traveled this far for it. It shouldn't go to vain! The Jolteon figured, hey, let the Glaceon decide. Though Gilbert had this huge fear of Ice-types, searching for him could mean taking advantage over the Fresh Snow Pokemon. Especially since it'll be 3 vs 1. Him, Alice, and Gilbert. Just how it's always been. How could he possibly allow a newcomer just to jump into the group just because of his earlier connections with the Lopunny?!

The Lopunny giggles at Cheshire. Alice is happy, isn't she? Laughter is happiness, Cheshire was taught. Though Cheshire almost hurt her, Alice is still laughing, she is still joking... Alice is Alice, after all. Even without her memories, she has not changed much, inside. Cheshire simply pouts and looks away -- Alice is so mean to Cheshire. Not bothering to get up, the Lopunny stays sprawled on the floor where Cheshire knocked her down, a soft smile following a heavy sigh that escaped from her lips. "I do remember Cheshire... Special friend..." Alice looks up at the early morning sky that is blue with dots of soft white. Cheshire follows her gaze up to the endless blue; was it strange to imagine that this sky was the same upwards abyss that covered the land two months ago, before everything fell apart? Surely, if the land and the living had changed so much, the sky would be different too -- but it is still the same sky, the same clouds Cheshire used to stare at, the same stars Cheshire used to trace. Truth or lies? Cheshire was Alice's special friend, and Alice was Cheshire's only friend. "Truth... Alice was... is... Cheshire's precious friend."

"But that is all I remember at the moment," Alice finishes. Is the talk over? Is that all she had to say? Cheshire sits for a moment longer, waiting if there is more, but a certain yellow dog trots in, a disgustingly cheerful and friendly tone to his voice, a stupid smile plastering itself in a wide grin across his yellow maw. Cheshire makes a face, but doesn't growl -- he knows Alice said to get along. Cheshire probably wouldn't get along with this pet dog of Alice's, but he could stop growling and glaring every time he saw the Jolteon... maybe. "What'cha guys talkin' about~?" he asks, although Cheshire's ears hear it more like a demand for an answer than a question. None of Oz's business, Cheshire thinks, but he lets Alice do the talking. Cheshire dislikes speaking a lot, anyway. Why must the dog walk in? He is not a part of Cheshire and Alice's life. Oz wasn't there two months ago. Oz didn't see the tragedy. Oz doesn't know why Alice lost her memories. Only Cheshire does, and the key to the truth sits in the Tower, the Tower that Cheshire once called home, but now his home is a silent taboo.

"Nothing much," Alice responds, and Cheshire sees a small frown on her face. It really was 'nothing much', for the Jolteon, at least. He doesn't matter, and he wouldn't understand the connection Alice and Cheshire share. Alice also questions what Oz is doing, up and awake, so early in the morning, and Cheshire wonders the same. Alice and her pet dog must have traveled a long way to come to Aspertia, wherever she had gone for two months, and on their first night of stay, they had a fight with Cheshire, and a fight with Undead. Surely they are tired, but yet it seems Oz was awake before Alice, maybe even before Cheshire. Who knows, Cheshire didn't look for the dog when he awoke. All that matters to Cheshire is the safety of Alice. Oz gives a short glance to Cheshire before looking back to Alice, explaining that he was searching in the city labs. Cheshire growls a little bit, hunching his shoulders; what was the glance for?

Cheshire looks to Alice, who looks confused and surprised. What for? What is so surprising about investigating labs? Cheshire has seen those places, and it isn't a place of much interest -- then again, Cheshire has already lost interest in many things. The sun that shone down on his fur during the day gave Cheshire no warmth to feel; the insects crawling along the ground that Cheshire used to watch as a child were crushed underpaw without a second thought. But now, Cheshire had his old sun back, the sun that gave him warmth and friendship, his Alice. Whatever conversation Alice and Oz have, Cheshire tunes it out as his mind blanks, thinking about other things, like the past. Not just two months ago, but some years back when Cheshire had still been an Eevee, and Alice a Buneary. How did they meet again? How did they become friends? Cheshire is beginning to lose his oldest memories, too.

The dog's voice brings Cheshire back to reality, Cheshire becoming aware of his surroundings in a bang. Cheshire's head turns towards Oz, the usual glare pasted all over his red eyes. What did the dog want? Cheshire had nothing to offer to the Jolteon. "What about you Cheshire? What do you want to do?" he asks, the stupid grin still wide on his face. Cheshire is surprised; so surprised he forgets to glare. An opinion? Oz wants an opinion from Cheshire? Why? Has Oz fallen and hit his head while investigating labs? Cheshire would not be surprised if he did. Cheshire looks away for a second, before returning his gaze to Oz. Confusion swims in Cheshire's eyes. Just until last night, Oz and Cheshire were still fighting, and maybe they would have fought each other during the battle with Undead if Alice was not there. Was Oz trying to be friendly? To Cheshire? The idea was bizarre. A frown creases Cheshire's maw and he flicks his ear. "Cheshire doesn't care. Cheshire does not have any 'want' anymore, except to protect Alice... Cheshire would have wanted to see the rose garden, but the rose garden disappeared along with Alice from Aspertia." he answers shortly after a small pause of hesitation, shaking his head.

"Cheshire doesn't care," He responded, snapping out of his daydream. Alice watched the Glaceon frown, flickering his ear as he continued, "Cheshire does not have any 'want' anymore, except to protect Alice..." Now it was her turn to frown. Why did he want to protect her? Sure, they were friends, friends are suppose to watch each other's backs. But the way he said it... it's foreboding. She shuddered, she shouldn't really think of a deeper meaning behind those words, but sometimes she just couldn't help it. The Ice-type also mentioned of a flower garden, but the Lopunny was too deep in her thoughts to take hang onto the last sentence. As she flickered back on to reality, the Jolteon jumped in excitement, bouncing around the duo; "Then let's go find the reason for the Epidemic!" Alic narrowed her eyes, however, this was fishy, too fishy, no way is she going to let this slide with the Electric-type without her knowing what's going on! The true reason for investigating the area without Gilbert.

He was so close, this close to attracting Cheshire's attention to something else while he would sneak into the tower. A pout came across his face as he felt something grab tightly on his bright-red tie, the Pokemon grabbing it being no one else, but Alice, "Woah, woah, woah, hold the phone!" She said rather harshly, the Electric-type felt her paws on his shoulder, forcing him to turn around and make eye contact with her piercing violet eyes, "Are you sure we're going without Gilbert? This is different from the usual Oz, shouldn't we go find him?" Oz stared at her eyes for what seemed to feel like forever, shifting his emerald-green gaze off to the side before giving a smirk. This'll be good... "Mmmm... Sounds like you're worried about him Alice," He rose his brow at the remark, as if suggesting something. Though he knew them being together is pretty much impossible, it would be amusing to watch a bit. However... He immediately regret pulling up that card, watching the Rabbit Pokemon's face flush into a crimson-red as she immediately denied it, "N-no of course not!" Oh dear Arceus what has Oz done.... "The more the better! We'll have higher defenses and cover more ground!" This was an obvious excuse, no way is anyone going to buy that from her if she's that red.

Alice struggled to keep herself calm and not hitting Oz and beating him to the bone. Seriously, that question came from no where. Why would she care for seaweed head? Hell, he could mind as well die on her and she wouldn't even flinch. But no, Oz had to fucking point out that she might care for him! The thought disgusted her to the bone. Geez, was it that hard to worry over him because Oz seemed out of it today? Where's the care for Gilbert? Usually the Jolteon would put his friends before himself, so where's the; 'Gilbert, where are you?' business? The Lopunny was definitely getting freaked out by how he seemed so out of this world today. Hell, it's been like this since the arrival of Aspertia City. Did it have something to do with Alice's memories?... It couldn't be... He was possibly stealing her memories?! Maybe that's why it's a bit slow on regaining them?! No wait, that's not possible... Unless he's a wizard! She should keep an eye out for him. Oz gave a heavy sigh before responding, giving up on teasing Alice as she always takes things too seriously, "Fine, but..." He paused, the Lopunny felt hope arise, but even so, there's conditions she had to follow. Boo. She hates terms and conditions. Usually she just skips them and learns them later on, "We'll go back the way we came, but we're coming back here to investigate once it hits noon alright?"

She gave a quick nod, though she probably didn't even bother to think what would happen if they don't find Gil by noon, Oz just let that slip by. He couldn't honestly tell time without those human clocks, therefore, does not know how to tell time with the sun. But he does know sunset and sunrise, maybe noon was right in the middle of them? Center up the sky? Nonetheless, he motioned the small group to go on ahead, the lab was not too far from here. It's not counted in the map details, but it was somewhere behind the gym. The Gym Leader's own personal lab. Must be some geeky guy in glasses and in formal wear all the time. Oz disliked those kinds of people, rarely did they show any emotion. Nonetheless, the Jolteon hopped after the Lopunny who already led the way, heading into the trees that stood behind the gym. It's as if she knew this place from head-to-toe! In a matter of seconds, there stood an old shack behind the gym, run down, looking like any other ol' shack that could possibly filled with garden tools rather than a bunch of binders and folders filled with lots of information he could not comprehend.

The Normal-type stood her ground, her eyes scanning the shack. The scent of death and decay was barely around. But the quietness was something average. One that she had recognized. She had definitely been here before. With a gulp, she shakily waltz over, Oz following behind her and most likely Cheshire as well if he decided to come along. With a deep breath, she gripped the doorknob, dirty, but cold. An unusual thing there. She turned it with uneasiness, the creak surprisingly loud. The Electric-type poked his head in, sniffing anything out. But it was obvious for Alice that there's still the possibility of Undead being there. The rain covered up some of the heaviest scents, but the Lopunny didn't like this place to begin with anyways. She fully opened the door, Oz racing in full speed before pausing before Alice, his chin raised quite pridefully as he glanced between her and Cheshire's direction. A huge grin came upon his face, "Look for research papers concerning the Epidemic! That's our first mission."

Alice gave her nod of approval, not even bothering to wait for Cheshire's response for Oz. Quickly did she head over the shelves, going through each page with fair delicacy and trying to soak up all the information she had found.

Cheshire cannot help but feel a little suspicious; why is Oz so cheerful, so suddenly? The dog talks to Cheshire as if they are good friends, not enemies fighting over the custody of Alice. The Glaceon just wrinkles his nose in distaste, looking away as Oz leaps in the way of a small child around Alice and Cheshire, his voice loud, and to Cheshire, obnoxious as he suggests to go... find the reason for the Epidemic? Cheshire looks at the Jolteon with red eyes in disbelief, one ear pricking up and the other still bent down. The reason for the Epidemic; the reason for why Cheshire's heart beats no more? Is the dog mad? Cheshire is not surprised at the thought. How is anyone to know the cause of the Epidemic? When it started? How it spreads? How it brings the dead back to an almost 'life', so close to really being alive again yet just out of grasp? They are questions that Cheshire doesn't believe even the smartest could answer; he knows nothing.

And why would anyone else? There is no one left alive in Aspertia, save for Alice and Oz; Cheshire is not alive. Even if anyone else did exist, what was the chance they knew about the Epidemic? What does Oz plan to do, Cheshire wants to know. Is he actually serious? Does he plan to try and get information out of human papers? Cheshire can't read the scribbles humans write on paper; they all look like a long string of strange loops and scribbles to the Glaceon. Perhaps Alice knows what the loops and scribbles mean, at least a little bit, but Cheshire doesn't and he doesn't believe Oz does, either. Then again, Cheshire is a little biased towards the stupid yellow dog. But it doesn't matter. Whichever way, Cheshire thinks the idea is stupid. Searching for the cause of the Epidemic is stupid. The hope to find out anything about the Epidemic is stupid... oh, and Oz is stupid, too.

Before Cheshire could open his mouth and retaliate, though, Alice is already moving in, grabbing the cloth of the red tie that Oz wears and yanking him close. She questions about Gilbert -- Gilbert, Gilbert, Gilbert. Cheshire doesn't know what's so special about this Gilbert of Alice's. Alice said he was different, but Cheshire cannot help but think about the Gilbert, the brother of Vincent. Vincent. Oh, how Cheshire hates that name. It is a name full of spite and hatred to Cheshire, its owner the reason why Cheshire's eye no longer sees; the reason why Cheshire's blood is cold; the reason why Alice died that night. With a small huff, Cheshire's attention returns back to Alice, whose face is bright red in a blush even through her dark fur. Cheshire stands up slowly, gaze resting on Alice and the yellow dog in silence. Cheshire hasn't been paying much attention to their conversation, but it seems it was time to go.

And it seems their first destination was Cheren's gym. Or, apparently, what was behind Cheren's gym. Alice and Oz go up ahead, while Cheshire brings up the rear a couple feet away from both; this way, Cheshire can have both Alice and her pet dog in his sight while also being close enough that he could save Alice if she were to get in trouble. The dog could handle himself [maybe]. An old little shack stands behind the gym, normally sheltered by the trees of the woods that surrounds it. It is a place Cheren used to use for his studies; Cheshire had seen more scribbles and symbols on the papers Cheren carried than on any other human book or paper Cheshire had ever looked at. Alice walks to the door, her pace slowing down as she came near the shack. The doorknob rusted and chips everywhere, the shack is either old or simply neglected of care; or perhaps both.

Alice opens the door, the hinges creaking and rusted but not too jammed, and she walks in as it opens outward. Oz follows inside, and Cheshire stands outside the place, looking up at the shack in silence. It wouldn't do Cheshire any good even if he were to go inside and watch; after all, he can't read and would be of no use to the research. And it would be easier to see who went in and came out of the shack if he were to wait outside, too, right? Yet Cheshire didn't like the thought of standing outside, alone though he had been doing that every day for the past two months. What was different, today? Cheshire hesitates, giving a short glance around the place to make sure nothing was there before making his decision. The Glaceon follows the Lopunny and Jolteon duo into the small building, the inside lit up by the sunlight streaming in through the windows. Cheshire wonders if the lights still work; possibly, possibly not.

Cheshire sits down in silence next to the door, watching the actions of both Alice and Oz as they immediately began to ruffle through papers with scribbles; especially Alice, who seemed to just know where everything was. It’s odd, how she acts. She has no actual memory of the city she grew up in, yet it appears as if her body is used to how the town works despite its differences compared to long ago. Perhaps they would find themselves walking towards the Tower without knowledge, someday. After all, there was no pull greater than the gravity of home sweet home, though from what Cheshire had seen last time he entered the Tower, to Alice’s room, there had been nothing but dust, death, and destruction. How could Cheshire ever let Alice see what her past has become? Stretching out his front legs a little bit, Cheshire looks up, his focus back on watching over Alice and Oz. Alice doesn’t have a home to go back to anymore. Neither does Cheshire.

A frown came upon the Lopunny's face as she flipped through the several pages of each journal, constantly stuffing them back and taking them out. Each journal was different, some pages were about types, some pages were about statuses, yet nothing of the Epidemic so far! The Rabbit Pokemon found the organization of the journals appalling, as she figured the gym leader would be a rather neat person due to the odd tidiness in the gym earlier. If that was the case, did that mean someone was here before them? Alice pushed that thought away, shaking her head vigorously before irritatingly placing back in its place. She heaved a heavy sigh as she felt disappointment wash over her; "Can't find anything. Skimmed and scanned, but it would take a couple of days to find just one sentence about this stupid epidemic!"

For once did Oz agree, nodding his head sadly as he gently placed the stack of papers back on the desk. "True that," he commented, time was all that they had, spending it now would end up going in vain. He shook that thought away, before hearing Alice groan in frustration as she turned to the Glaceon "Cheshire do you know anything?" Her voice was rather demanding, but a hint of desperation was obvious. Why is she desperate now? Wasn't she keen on getting her memories back together rather than some stupid cause of the Epidemic? The Jolteon felt questions pop endlessly into his mind, but he said nothing as he watched the scene. He really doubted the Ice-type would have a clue on what the Epidemic is, considering how he seemed so clueless the moment they entered this shed.

[[Ooc: Apologies over the unusually short posts ouo; I'm starting to rethink my roleplaying style, so it might stay like this for a while]]

Cheshire sits quietly as the clock ticks away, Alice and Oz ruffling through papers like a tornado passes through a city. Alice picks up so many of the faded sheets before moving onto the next that Cheshire sometimes wonders if Alice actually reads them all. Maybe not. Knowing the Lopunny, Alice is much too impatient for such things even if she wasn't in a hurry. She is probably skimming through the human squibbles; or, at least, what she can read of them. It still makes Cheshire wonder, how Alice understands the odd, human writing. Perhaps Jack had taught her, once upon a time in a day that seemed so far away.

Their determination did not seem to last very long, though, for Alice soon shakes her head with a look of frustration as she puts one of the research books back. A glance of Alice's face tells Cheshire that she hasn't found what she wants. "Can't find anything. Skimmed and scanned, but it would take a couple of days to find just one sentence about this stupid epidemic!" yells Alice, the space in the shed much too small to allow her voice to echo, unlike the gym. Somehow, it makes her voice sound even louder. Well, wasn't that what research was about? Nothing is possible if there isn't enough time. Oz quickly agrees with Alice, though, moving the papers and nudging them back into places where possible. "True that," he says, sounding even more disgruntled than Alice.

Instantly, Alice whirls on Cheshire like a hunter and her prey, a sharp gleam in her eye with a hint of something else that Cheshire thought to look familiar, yet he couldn't quite remember from where. "Cheshire, do you know anything?" she demands loudly, sounding forceful yet forced at the same time. Cheshire blinks slowly, tipping his head; why would Alice ask him? Yes, of course, Cheshire knows how the infection works, or how it affects a pokémon's behavior normally. After all, Cheshire is Undead himself. But what does Cheshire know about the beginning of it all, when everything began falling apart, possibly long before the time of Alice and Cheshire? The answer was none.

"Cheshire doesn't know about the beginning of the epidemic," answers Cheshire with a slight shrug. "Cheshire didn't even do anything. Maybe it began before Cheshire, and even Alice, were even born. Cheshire rarely stepped out of 'Home' with Alice. Alice... was a very lonely girl... and Cheshire was even lonelier." Cheshire pauses, shifting around so that he was no longer stepping on the hem of his scarf. "Cheshire doesn't know anything the beginning of the epidemic... but Cheshire does know what being infected feels like."

"Cheshire doesn't know about the beginning of the epidemic," He answered with a shrug; Alice felt her hopes getting shot down, but the Glaceon continued -- this time with words that perked her curiosity of her past, "Cheshire didn't even do anything. Maybe it began before Cheshire, and even Alice, were even born. Cheshire rarely stepped out of 'Home' with Alice. Alice... was a very lonely girl... and Cheshire was even lonelier. Cheshire doesn't know anything the beginning of the epidemic... but Cheshire does know what being infected feels like." It was good that the Ice-type displayed some information of her past, the Lopunny would have questioned for further details, but she had a feeling that he wouldn't even dare share it. Yet, she was lonely back then? She knew she lived in a tower, but she was lonely? The Rabbit Pokemon would have at least expected her past self to at least have the right mind to socialize.

Surprisingly enough, Alice said nothing in the next few moments; dropping her gaze from the Ice-type to the book she held open, leaving the conversation to hang for itself. She just continued to look for evidence of the Epidemic, as if distracting herself from the true problem of her past. Oz rose a brow upon this action, but dismissed it as he closed the book that laid flat on the ground, "We could stop if you like Alice," The Jolteon began, "I know we're running out of time, but... isn't it obvious you're worried about something else?" He was quite worried for her health, forcing herself to focus on something else seemed a bit too far. It was as if the sun was finally hiding behind the clouds.

The Normal-type threw daggers at the Electric-type, "I'm perfectly fine, so shut up and keep looking."

However, Oz did not back down from her challenge, his voice rising bit by bit; "Alice please, it's far too obvious."

"I'm fine... don't worry..."

"Alice! Just put the damn book dow-!"

"I said I'm FUCKING fine! So shut up and keep fucking looking!"

Silence. The Thunder Pokemon frowned, glancing over at the Glaceon before releasing a heavy sigh. If only the Fresh Snow Pokemon was willing to cooperate, then the Lopunny wouldn't be hiding her will to seek out her memories. Gilbert was not going to arrive anytime soon, it would be much more faster with the Honchkrow here. Afterall, he did find some notable things on the Epidemic that Oz had yet to discover.

[Ooc: TIME TO REVIVE THE TEAM >8D]

[ABOUT TIME THIS TEAM COMES BACK TO LIFE. XD]

What had life been like before? What kind of pokémon had Cheshire originally been? He could not remember for himself, for what he knew about himself was fading away every day; but he couldn't ever forget his memories of Alice. Sweet Alice, kind and gentle, who used to look out the window and dream of going outside, of seeing the world beyond the stone walls of her home. Who locked Alice in the tower? Who locked Alice and Cheshire? And... who let them out again? Who let Alice and Cheshire explore 'Outside' on their own? Who took Cheshire outside on a snowy day? Who showed Cheshire what it was like to evolve...?

The Glaceon opens his eyes, not having realized he had zoned out in thought and closed his red gaze from the world. He turns up and looks, and the first thing Cheshire sees is the yellow dog. Cheshire looks up at Oz right as the Jolteon glances over at him, and then letting out a sigh. Cheshire narrows his eyes slightly, letting out a slight huff before turning his eyes back on Alice. The Lopunny looks frustrated. Cheshire wonders why; can she not find what she is looking for? The Glaceon did doubt that they would find anything useful in this shack before they ever entered. Maybe they would listen to him more, now.

Cheshire finds himself thinking about the yellow dog, though. He scowls slightly; why does the dog bother him? Begrudgingly, he turns his almost glare back onto the Jolteon, scrutinizing him. Now that Cheshire was calmer and not hissing and spitting at Oz all the time, he could think a little more clearly about this newcomer. Before this awkward reunion, Cheshire had never met Oz. The Glaceon remembers no such Jolteon named Oz, or anyone so annoying as him. Despite that, Cheshire finds the yellow dog to be familiar. Who does Oz remind him of? It is someone that... Cheshire finds important. Good or bad, Cheshire cannot remember, but it is someone who is, or was, important in Cheshire's life... and maybe Alice's, too.

What connection does Oz have with Alice and Cheshire's past? Is that why Oz is here? Cheshire thought Oz was just a passerby, unimportant and insignificant, and a robber who stole his Alice away; but perhaps, the yellow dog knows something as well. The last thing Cheshire remembers of their time together is when Vincent, cruel and evil Vincent, attacked and Cheshire lost his eye and his life to protect Alice. But what happened to Alice after that? When Cheshire awakened, Alice was gone... and then, some months later, the Lopunny comes back with the Jolteon in tow. The hairs between Cheshire's shoulders and his back begin to rise, and he lets out a frosty, misty breath.

"Who exactly... are you?" the Glaceon asks, a demanding tone in his voice as he slightly bristles. There is something about this Oz that bothers Cheshire...

The temperature dropped dramatically, Oz perked up his ears as he turned towards the source; Cheshire. His hairs were rising in hostile, "Who exactly... are you?" The Jolteon was usually shrugging off the Glaceon's demands, but now seemed far more serious than the last. He felt color drain from his face. Did the Glaceon mean who was Oz in general? Or towards Alice? If so, how should he respond? There must be consequences with this demand. However, before words could form in his mouth, the Lopunny frowned, closing the book rather loudly; "Oz is a friend that found me when I fell off the tower. He's helping me figure out my amnesia problem. Nothing more, nothing less."

She held in the urge to add in 'figure out the past that you won't tell me' but she said nothing of the sort as Alice had this feeling Cheshire would start up a fight if she dare brought it up. However, she had to hold herself back from interrogating the Ice-type, as he is the key to her memories. What stopped Alice from doing that was how she felt with the Glaceon; like there was some sort of connection between them that cannot be described. Was it love like Oz had once mentioned? No, it was something far more special...

"What are you trying to imply Cheshire?" The Electric-type challenged as soon as he gathered himself, even when the Lopunny attempted to stop them. Though he stumbled a bit in the beginning, his voice was loud and clear. Alice widened her eyes, staring dumbfoundly at Oz for doing such a thing [or the fact he actually had the guts to do it]. "Do I remind you of someone of the past? Or is it that you think I'm planning on endangering Alice?"

Alice answers Cheshire's question first, her book slamming shut and causing a slight echo in the silent, small shed. Her answer is abrupt and a little curt, but it gets Cheshire's attention. Or, really, a small part got Cheshire's attention. His head turns around to stare at Alice who stands there, looking over with a slight frown on her face. "Fell off the tower?" Cheshire repeated, a certain tone to his voice. "Why did Alice fall off the tower? Cheshire... Cheshire protected Alice. Alice should not have fallen from the tower. Did... Vinc --" But before Cheshire could finish that sentence, the Glaceon cuts off and shakes his head. No, no mention of Vincent here. Cheshire will keep protecting Alice, and the only way to do that is to keep her from remembering.

Alice hated Vincent... and so did Cheshire...

"What are you trying to imply Cheshire?" Cheshire turns to the dog, his red eyes narrowing again. A slight sneer adorns Cheshire's mouth -- he hears the slight waver in Oz's voice. But every word after is solid and strong, and the Glaceon's sneer is gone almost instantly for another scowl. "Do I remind you of someone of the past? Or is it that you think I'm planning on endangering Alice?" He has to stop and think about the Jolteon's statement. 'Do I remind you of someone of the past', asks the yellow dog. Cheshire can't help but to think slowly about that statement, more than the second and he looks down at Oz in thought. The answer comes and almost enlightens Cheshire, if it didn't make him scramble back and hiss instead.

Him, him, Oz reminds Cheshire of him. Cheshire is having troubles remembering his name, but Cheshire remembers his face and what he was to Cheshire and Alice very well. The bright-eyed face that always brought smiles to Cheshire and Alice, the one who made Alice less lonely -- how can Cheshire ever forget? Not only for Alice, but also for the Abyss. He was there when Glen was not; he gave to Alice what slept in her dreams. But this dog is not him. Oz is too young, too immature, too fiery. There are surely more Jolteons out there in the world, outside of Aspertia! ...But still, Cheshire cannot shake the feeling and nostalgia that surrounds this Oz. Cheshire's fur still bristles, the air cold with the weather and Cheshire, but a little less so than before.

Cheshire trusts him. Or trusted. Cheshire trusted his and Alice's dear friend. Where has he gone? Is he dead, just like Cheshire? Or is he also wandering around, still alive but barely? "Cheshire doesn't trust Oz." His ears flatten and the Glaceon scoots back towards the wall and to the corner, eyes glaring at the yellow dog, sometimes glancing at Alice. Cheshire takes a step forward, before changing his mind and pulling it back. "Oz endangers Alice by bringing her back here. You want to protect Alice too? Then stay away from the tower! Stay away from Aspertia! Stay away from..." ...Home.

Alice winced at Cheshire's tone as he questioned about her falling off the tower. If he was a close friend, why didn't he realize that she fell off? If he was even there during the incident, why is it that he didn't notice? There was a strong gap in her memories; it bothered the Lopunny greatly. If the case was that the Glaceon truly didn't know, something must have happened during the time period of when she fall of the tower and the reason for it. Yet, what bothered her the most was the name Cheshire mentioned, bust stopped mid-way. It was vaguely familiar, as if someone else had once mentioned it. Immediately did she snap out of it as the Ice-type shook his head in disapproval towards the Jolteon;

"Cheshire doesn't trust Oz." He said as he glared at Oz -- well it's no surprise that the Glaceon didn't trust him -- "Oz endangers Alice by bringing her back here. You want to protect Alice too? Then stay away from the tower! Stay away from Aspertia! Stay away from..." As he trailed off, the expression on the Electric-type's face stayed unchanged, as if not accepting that fact. "If Alice wants her memories back, then she will get it back," he said defiantly, "It doesn't matter if it's dangerous or not, what's the worse that could happen just from remembering the past?"

The Lopunny grew unsure as their debate continued, she would stop it, but she was curious as well; what would happen if she were to head into the tower? Did something happen there that shouldn't be unveiled? Alice eyed the door -- the exit -- for moments pass; if she were to leave now and make a run for it for the tower, would Cheshire be able to stop her?... No, she's forgetting something; the reason they were here. She promised herself she wouldn't be selfish -- she would allow Oz and Gil to carry out their investigation, it was their priority afterall. It must have been that Oz's priorities fell due to the lack of Gil's constant remindings that Alice got so into her search of memories. It's alright Oz, it's not that important. It's not that important...

"NO!" Cheshire can feel his fur standing on end, and he is standing up again, hissing at Oz. The hostility is back again. Why doesn't the dog realize? Alice mustn't remember. Alice can't remember. "Stupid dog! If Alice didn't protect you, Oz would be dead already! You want to find Alice's memories here? This city is Alice's memory. And Cheshire's! Her memory is what keeps this place standing. It's what makes Cheshire protect it...!" Without Alice, Aspertia might have never been Cheshire's home. Without Alice, Cheshire might have never been 'Cheshire'. The Glaceon stayed in Aspertia for all this time because he knew Alice would come. Home is where the heart is, they say. But just like Cheshire's heart, Aspertia became cold and lifeless... until Alice came back. Would Cheshire have to get rid of the Sun that gave warmth to his heart? His... best and only... friend...

Cheshire shakes his head. His fur flattens and he sits again, ears down. His red eyes glare at Oz, but then he turns to Alice. He doesn't attack Oz only to keep Alice happy. Cheshire only wants to see Alice happy... Is Alice happy...? A feeling of despair rises up in Cheshire's chest. He knows Alice will only be happy if Cheshire lets her remember... and that means going back to the Tower. But Cheshire also knows what will happen if Alice sees the Tower. If she sees her room. If she sees the dolls... and if she finally remembers who Cheshire is. "Alice doesn't have to remember who Cheshire is. Alice doesn't have to know who Cheshire is. Cheshire just wants... to protect Alice." Like a music box, Cheshire just keeps repeating the same things over and over again until his spring gives out. "...Cheshire will be outside."

And he turns away and leaves out the crooked door of Cheren's shack. Their search for information about the Undead surely will go well without Cheshire's help. Cheshire can't read or even search for those papers with his clumsy paws. Maybe Oz is a replacement for Alice. Maybe Cheshire may not be Alice's precious friend anymore... but it's all right. It's fine. If the yellow dog makes Alice happy, then Cheshire won't kill Oz... maybe. The Glaceon knows what will eventually happen to him, and Oz probably does, too. It's not like Cheshire is special from all of those other Undeads who scream and cry for blood and flesh. Cheshire is exactly the same. Cheshire's already done that. One day, he might slip and be like that.

I͢s Ali ̀ ͠ ̸ c e̷ ͟ ̵ ́h̨a҉ p̢ py̴ ͝ ̴ ?

The Glaceon sighs and lies down on the ground, head turned to look towards the path that leads to the Tower. Cheshire can almost hear Vincent snickering at him...

"NO!" The Glaceon's fur stands on end, causing Oz to flinch; "Stupid dog! If Alice didn't protect you, Oz would be dead already! You want to find Alice's memories here? This city is Alice's memory. And Cheshire's! Her memory is what keeps this place standing. It's what makes Cheshire protect it...! Alice doesn't have to remember who Cheshire is. Cheshire just wants... to protect Alice." The Jolteon felt a surge of confusion as the Ice-type mumbled on and on, repeating the same things earlier except it grew quiet and quiet each time, until finally he breaks out of the trance. "...Cheshire will be outside." With that he left the shed promptly, leaving the Lopunny and the electric fox alone.

Alice felt guilt at her throat as she watched the Fresh Snow Pokemon leave. She did know who Cheshire was this whole time, but she was just uneasy about the fact that her best friend is now an Undead. Then again, they all used to be living, every Undead at one point used to be a living creature. The Lopunny shouldn't have doubted the Ice-type's fierce determination to latch onto her memories, it was obvious she would have to earn them herself. The Normal-type glanced steadily over to Oz, whom just stood in the same position, still dumbfounded at the Glaceon's rantings.

"Oz?" Alice said, breaking the Jolteon out of his thoughts as he snapped his head toward the Lopunny; "It's alright, my memories can be saved for later. We should focus on the origin of the Epidemic alright?" Her eyes were filled with uneasiness, but she was attempting to lighten the situation. Oz couldn't believe he had put the Rabbit Pokemon through that situation, he lowered his ears in shame as he nodded his head slightly.

However, silence quickly settled in, tension grew with each passing second until finally she perked up; "We should search for Seaweed head now shouldn't we?" She said, attempting to be her usual upbeat self; "He knows more about the Epidemic than us anyways right? It could help us go through this more easily."

"Seems like a good plan," A spark reignites in Oz's eyes, "Should we go now?" As quickly as he asked the question, the Lopunny slammed her fists into Oz's mid-area, causing him to grunt and stumble; "Of course! What kind of a stupid question is that?" The Jolteon shakily stood up with a smile, following her out the door with contentment. "Cheshire; we're going to search for Gil now since we're going nowhere on research, you wanna come?" She asked the Glaceon, whom Oz just slightly glanced at with his smile slightly fading. Though the Ice-type had good intentions, he still couldn't trust him to be alone with the Lopunny just yet.

It is cold outside, with winter lurking behind the trees, but Cheshire cannot feel it anyway. Cheshire is already cold to begin with. Naturally. Around him, the Glaceon almost feels the water in the air turning cold, sometimes into ice on contact with his fur. It would be the first winter passing since Cheshire died. A shiver whispers down the Glaceon's spine and he sits up, tail wrapping around his paws again. He can still feel cold in other ways.

It seems the other two are done with their search. Already? Cheshire expected them to be in there for hours, as long as the Sun moves across the bright sky. On the other hand, Alice and Oz look much less tense. The yellow dog even has a smile on his face. What for? Cheshire wants to scowl at him, but he doesn't find the energy to. Instead he quietly stares at the duo, eyes dull and emotionless. Somewhere in the back of his mind, Cheshire wonders where the 'other Alice' is. Is she dead? Or is she alive? Alice, why must you be Alice?

"Cheshire; we're going to search for Gil now since we're going nowhere on research, you wanna come?" says Alice. Alice is constantly on the search for something, Cheshire notes. The secret to the Epidemic. Wherever this 'Gil' is. Her memories. Cheshire still has doubts about this 'Gil' that the Lopunny speaks of, but keeps silent for her sake. Just as long as Vincent or Glen or the one who Oz reminds Cheshire of do not show up. Cheshire knows they were important; not how important or why important, but he just knows.

"Cheshire will follow Alice, a search for friends. Does Alice remember the map of Aspertia?" Alice already knows she was raised here in Aspertia. No use in trying to skirt that anymore. "Yellow dog, do you know?" he also adds, looking over at Oz. Cheshire doubts it. Then again, Cheshire doubts a lot of things about the Jolteon. But the two cannot search for someone without knowing the map of Aspertia... right?

"Cheshire will follow Alice, a search for friends. Does Alice remember the map of Aspertia?" The Glaceon asked, as if forgetting the whole entire incident that happened not-so-long-ago. The Lopunny pondered, she doesn't exactly know that map, yet she went around the place like she did. Something about the place was familiar, but it was strange as she was locked up in that tower for most of her lifetime. Maybe they brought her out from time to time? The Ice-type went to ask Oz the same question, but he didn't respond as he looked deep in thought. The Rabbit Pokemon frowned at the Jolteon; at the same time, unsure how to answer Cheshire.

"I don't know too much," She admitted coolly, "But if we take the wrong turn, you can point it out." She glanced over at the Electric-type, still just following without a word. "Anyways, Gil is outside of Aspertia I think. Route 19."

Cheshire just blinks slowly at how Alice answers. The yellow dog remains silent. Though Alice answers smooth and nonchalant, Cheshire recognizes that the answer she gives is that no, she does not know Aspertia's map. She does not fool Cheshire. But it's alright. Cheshire will be their guide. "Route 19 is north of Aspertia," Cheshire answers, voice flat. Route 19 is the only route out of Aspertia. The city is on the very edge of Unova; it was one of the ends of the region.

Cheshire stands up, giving a light shake to his fur and then staring at Alice and Oz, waiting for them to go. As before, Cheshire would follow them, quietly behind. The Glaceon does not understand why this 'Gil' is so important for them -- for Cheshire, it only means more strangers entering his sanctuary -- but he would allow it just for Alice. A small headache pulls at the Glaceon's head, and he feels a hollowness in his stomach. Is Cheshire hungry? He can't be hungry, not now. Surely, it would just give the yellow dog a reason to call Cheshire a monster and chase him away. No, for now, Cheshire has to keep it in.


[Crud post slafksg]