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Chapter Text

Under Lumiose’s night sky on the rooftop of the Hotel Z two men lay together wrapped in blankets cuddled on a chair. One takes up much more space than the other but the smaller doesn't seem mind at all. Infact he feels rather content.

“Lumiose sure is beautiful…” Ivor sighs. Corbeau cracks open an eye just bit then closes it back again “Yeah..”

“I'm so glad it wasn't destroyed…” Corbeau manages a chuckle “Yup that would have been really bad…”

“Ya tired? You looked like the dead when we met up…” Ivor mumbles then perks back up “What did you do today? Save some orphans from a fire? Get a bunch of puppy Pokemon adopted?”

Corbeau laughs even more “I sent some folks swimming with the fishes…”

Ivor doesn't say anything. He fidgets a bit unsure if Corbeau is joking or not. Sensing his distress he sighs “There were some Magikarp stuck in stray nets” there's a venom in Corbeau's voice that sends a shiver through Ivor “We spent all day freeing them.”

“Ah no wonder you smell like that!”

“Like what exactly?”

“Like seaweed! I was gonna ask but I thought that might be rude…”

“Mmm…” Corbeau shifts burying himself further in the blankets and Ivor's embrace. “We could always head inside…” Ivor mumbles but he hopes Corbeau will object. He hears no noise coming from him though other than his gentle breathing.

Ivor looks up at the sky. Stars glittering brightly. If he tries hard enough he might even hear the sounds of people down below in the streets participating in the Infinite Royal. “Yeah Lumiose is beautiful… and I don't think there's anywhere else I'd rather be.”

Chapter Text

A reoccurring guest and his friend arrive at Hotel Z. “Heya uncle!” Lida greets Corbeau “And Ivor!”

“I'll never get used to you being related to him…” Naveen mumbles.

“What can we do for you guys?” Taunie asks the pair “Would you like some rooms?”

“Room” Corbeau corrects her. Ivor nods enthusiastically “Beau here says this place is a wonderful stay!”

“They're at the nickname stage already?” Naveen whispers at Lida who giggles.

Taunie hums “Well uhh we've never had a… pair need single room. I mean all the rooms only have one bed and they might be too small to share-”

“I'll pay you double. No triple what a room is worth if you stop talking right now and just give me the keys.” Corbeau smirks at Taunie's wide eyed shock.

“Take the deal! Take it we'll all just go get ear plugs!” Naveen shakes Taunie out of her trance.

Lida picks a key and tosses it to Corbeau “Enjoy your stay guys!” He leads Ivor to the elevator “I'm sure we will.”

Chapter Text

Ivor scans the crowd of people and perks up when he finally spots the person he was looking for. “Did you mean it?” he asks Corbeau as soon as he reaches him.

Corbeau raises an eyebrow “Mean what exactly?”

“Well when you said you thought I could be of help… you know with the tower…” despite the fact that Ivor is very obviously much bigger than Corbeau he can't help but to feel rather nervous talking to the man. He carries himself with an aura of importance. Like Corbeau knows he can get anything he wants done without question.

“Oh that” Corbeau shrugs “I've heard that The Fist of Justice can come in handy in times of crisis. Why wouldn't I mean what I said?” He sounds genuine…

“Well people don't usually take my offers very seriously. The madame detective Emma certainly doesn't…” Ivor runs a hand through his hair “She's scared I'll break something important…”

“That's ridiculous” Corbeau snorts “From what I've heard you're just enthusiastic. Not an idiot. Anyone can see you would be a great help. You were indeed a great help. Your plan worked to perfection.” That certainly makes Ivor feel rather warm. This man he's heard so much about. Mostly good things. A few bad. He's really kind…

“Boss!” Philippe waves at Corbeau who rolls his eyes and mutters “I swear if I'm not looking after them everything starts falling apart...” He then takes a deep breath and composes himself “I have to go and I'm sure people will need your help to clear out the rubble.”

Corbeau smiles at him and waves before heading off to his grunts. Ivor can't help but watch his retreating form suddenly increasingly aware of why people speak so highly of him.

Chapter Text

As Corbeau approaches a Flare Nouveau truck he can feel Grisham’s judging glare pierce through him. “What will you have today good sir?” he's very good at customer service though.

“My usual. And for you to spit out whatever you have to say to me…” Corbeau mutters leaning against the truck. Because there's no other customers around Griselle rolls her eyes at him.

“I just want to know one thing” Grisham smiles softly preparing his coffee.

“What is it?”

“Do you do all these good acts for the people of Lumiose because you feel repentant?” he asks.

Those are extremely bold words coming from him “I'll have you know I live a much more exciting life than selling coffee all day.”

“Oh I think you're wrong” the barista tuts “You see I don't just sell coffee. Griselle and I make connections with people. Real ones. I don't buy them.” He tacks on that last part with a cheeky smirk.

“I don't buy people either” Corbeau doesn't entertain him.

Grisham picks up a coffee cup “Word on the street would say otherwise.”

“Perhaps that's just a strategic rumor to keep up appearences” Corbeau snorts “Where are you going with this?”

“I'm glad you asked” Grisham presses several levers on a machine that looks too complex to just make coffee “One of my favorite customers I think you know him. Very large man, very loud, has broken quite a few of our cups… on accident of course.”

He's finally said something that's made Corbeau feel a twinge of nervousness so he plays coy “I’m assuming you mean Ivor. Yes I know him. What about him?”

“I just think he's a good person and frankly you Corbeau you're not… Especially following in Lysandre’s footsteps…” there the hell it is.

Corbeau is so peeved words just spill out of his mouth “Lysandre was once a good person. He helped me, and you, and so many others in Team Flare…”

Grisham hands him his coffee. It's in a porcelain cup as if Corbeau has the time to sit down. He shakes his head and Grisham looks for a paper cup instead.

“I don't think a good person would ever become convinced that in order to make the world more beautiful everyone would have to die” Grisham mutters darkly “You were used Corbeau. We all were. Except Griselle and I aren’t clinging onto the false idea of what Lysandre wanted us to think of him.”

“So you think I'll snap at any second? And my first victim will be Ivor?” Corbeau snorts “It really peeves me how you, his own sister, and others see him. Ivor is a grown man. He can get excited sure but he's not stupid.”

“But he is better than you” Grisham shrugs “When people call you a good person I don't think you believe it. Someone like you could ruin him.”

Grisham once again hands Corbeau his coffee this time in a travel cup. Good thing too he's had just about enough of this conversation “I remember why I don't come here often.”

Chapter Text

This has been a really good day… thinks Ivor as the Rust Syndicate’s building finally comes into view. Corbeau is a surprisingly fun person to hang out with. His sister was very wrong thinking they were going out to commit several felonies. It was just supposed to be the two of them talking and walking about before the sun set but Corbeau kept getting distracted by every little inconvenience on their path.

A parent overwhelmed by their children? Corbeau buys them ice cream. A maintenance man grumbling about an electrical problem? Corbeau finds a solution. A Litleo somehow gotten itself stuff up a tree. Corbeau politely asks Ivor if he can help it get it down. He gladly does of course. No problem was too small or too out of the way for Corbeau to ignore.

Before they finally part ways Corbeau abruptly pulls Ivor down and gives him a deep kiss. He's shocked by it at first but then gladly reciprocates. Ivor doesn't know what they are. Maybe just friends that gang out and occasionally do other stuff. Maybe partners. All he knows is that for some reason Corbeau is hesitating. Ivor doesn't mind that. He can be patient when need be.

They finally break apart when they need to come back up for air. “Woah Beau I didn't think you'd be so bold to do something like that in public” despite letting Corbeau go at his own pace and letting him define whatever this is Ivor feels his heart beat a million times per second “I mean don't you have like a ruthless mob boss reputation to uphold?”

Ivor swears he noticed some people dramatically point at them out of the corner of his eyes. Maybe even heard a few gasps at their blatant display of affection.

Corbeau licks his lips and whispers “I have to let the people know you're mine…”

Ivor's face flares up with heat “Y-yours?”

“We haven't completed my list. You're in my debt until then…” Corbeau smirks.

“Oh well I guess I gotta do that. And I can do that. Anytime you'd like I'll do that!” Corbeau admires Ivor's enthusiasm. And stamina.

“I'd like to take my time actually…” he shrugs. Always gotta keep people on their toes.

Ivor doesn't miss a beat “That's great too! I like seeing you!”

Chapter Text

“What did the letter say again?” Kieran asks “The exact words!”

“I am bringing over a friend this time please let me know if that bothers you both as soon as possible” Carmine recites the words she's read probably a hundred times over.

“Who do you think it could be?” Kieran hums “Maybe Phillipe?”

“I think if it was Phillipe dad would have mentioned him by name like he always does…” Carmine mumbles. His letters are usually so detailed. Occasionally infuriatingly so. Poor old man still feels guilty about what he did. Carmine can tell by the way he writes.

“Do you think he's dating someone?” Kieran gasps his gold eyes widening.

“Ough I hope he is!!!” Carmine hadn't thought about that “He's too stiff. He needs someone to relax him. I mean who writes letters anymore? Why not send a text!” Or use web for anything at all. Searching up Corbeau’s name usually provides much more interesting results than his letters as to what he's doing in Kalos.

“Are you going to tell him about Terapagos…?” Kieran asks slowly.

Carmine ruffles her little brother’s hair “He already knows Kiki. I told him about all that in the last letter I sent. That's probably why he's coming. Making sure you're alright…” The last time their father made the trip to Kitakami was shortly after the news broke about that insane man using a weapon in Kalos. He wanted to reassure his kids in person that he was okay. Now he wants to do the same for Kieran.

Carmine thinks Corbeau is going to be in for a surprise.

“No not that exactly…” Kieran pulls back his hair from where Carmine messed with his old bangs “The Crystal Pool… How it works if you have Terapagos.”

Carmine shrugs “Mmh if we do decide to tell him about that particular fun fact then I'll have to see if Arven can come over to Kitakami too. He is Terapagos’ trainer after all.”

“Yeah you're right…”

They fall into a comfortable silence wondering how it'd be like to see their father again in person after so many years. Then Kieran starts fidgeting.

“What is it Kiki?” Carmine sighs. Yes her brother is a lot more confident but of course old habits die hard.

Kieran mumbles “Do you think… dad will be mad… about everything I did?”

“Not a chance” Carmine doesn't hesitate to reassure her brother “He's so chill about this vacay he's bringing some mysterious friend so you shouldn't worry so much. I need my partner in crime to tease the hell out of him and his friend!”

“Oh you can definitely count on me to do that!” Kieran giggles.

Chapter Text

The infuriating vibrating of his phone receiving messages finally wakes Corbeau up. With a groan he shifts out of his partner’s warm embrace to retrieve it from the nightstand. The light it lets off almost blinds him. He has several messages from Philippe. A lot them apologetic as if that would make up for ruining his morning.

“Xerneas’ giving light spare me…” Corbeau scowls. Ivor next to him stretches them gives him a groggy smile “Hey… what's up?” His voice is deep and rough with sleep. “I'm afraid I have to cut our meeting short. Twelve hours short of the full day I was sworn up and down to that I would get…” Corbeau pinches the bridge of his nose “I'm sorry…” He hopes he sounds sincere enough. He really does hate to do this to Ivor.

A calloused hand caresses his face “It's alright. Kalos needs you more than I do.” Corbeau resists the urge to lean into Ivor's surprisingly gentle touch or else he'd never get out of bed “We only got through a quarter of my list…”

Ivor shrugs “Gives us an excuse to come back right?”

“I suppose you're right…” Corbeau sits up and visibly flinches. That makes Ivor bolt upright steadying him “Did I hurt you?” Corbeau sees Ivor's soft brown eyes aching with worry. What malicious entity convinced you that you're destructive? Corbeau wonders feeling a wave of fondness wash over him.

“No you didn't hurt me” Corbeau sighs, climbing out of bed, and retrieving his scattered clothes “But we did do quite a bit of strenuous activity last night. I'm bound to be aching no matter how many precautions we took.”

“Are you sure?” Ivor frets. Corbeau buttons up his shirt then gives him a smirk “I'm sure. Besides I always come prepared.” He produces a bottle of pills from his jacket pocket and takes one swallowing it dry.

“Now get dressed. The situation isn't entirely dire and I want us to get a coffee before I meet up with Philippe!” Corbeau retrieves Ivor's things and tosses them to him. “Haha on it!”

Chapter Text

Corbeau wakes up early because of a dream he can't remember. He doesn't mind that though, he's had plenty of early mornings throughout his career. And despite himself Corbeau finds himself leaning into the warm embrace of the man still sleeping soundly next to him. Ivor, mouth slightly agape snoring softly, is amusingly comfortable.

Try as he might Corbeau can't recall if he's ever felt like he does now. He's had flings all over Kalos and none of them have even come remotely close to the sense of peace he's experiencing now… Which means he should probably cut it sooner rather than later. Nothing good ever comes from getting close to him. No matter what Corbeau will try to do to prevent it, Ivor will get hurt, it's inevitable. Corbeau is a poison.

“Whatcha thinking about?” Ivor mumbles near his ear waking up.

“It's like you're a clear sunny day and I'm a storm cloud approaching just waiting to rain on your parade…” Corbeau replies absently unsure where the metaphor came from.

Ivor gives him a gentle squeeze “But rain is good! Everything needs water to live!” he says as if it's the most obvious thing in the world. Corbeau blinks. How does he do that? How does Ivor always take every doubtful thought he has and turn it into something more hopeful?

Sensing his discomfort Ivor blurts out “I love you Beau!”

For the first time since he became the Rust Syndicate's leader Corbeau has been caught off guard “Ivor I don't know-”

“Ah it's okay!” Ivor quickly clarifies “You don't have to love me back! I just felt like I was lying to you if I didn't tell you how I feel...” That would be taking advantage of him and Ivor definitely does not want to do that.

That brings a chuckle out of Corbeau. It's almost cute that Ivor thinks HE'S the one who can take advantage in their situation. Corbeau's nature would never allow that. He likes that Ivor greatly amuses him “I appreciate your honesty…”

“You just sound so upset sometimes. Like you really believe you're a poison that's gonna corrupt or kill me or something!” Ivor nuzzles his face “I'm sure that's not true at all Beau! I'm stronger than that! Strength is power! Strength is justice!”

Corbeau knows that he means it. He can see so much sincerity in his soft brown eyes. “You really are too good for me” he mutters “And I'm just selfish enough to say I'm not letting you go.” He thinks he might just enjoy this… for however long it may last.

Chapter Text

“Umm boss can we talk?” Philippe asks uncharacteristically nervous.

Corbeau doesn't look up from his desk of several documents he must get signed as soon as possible “In the several years we've known each other Philippe you have done nothing but speak your mind. This must be serious.”

“Well personally speaking” he clears his throat “I don't think you should go ahead with umm…”

“With what exactly? You know we always have multiple projects lined up” Corbeau’s hand is getting tired. He's used to getting things officially done of course but the finer details of this particular job are many. Everything has been looked over with a fine toothed comb.

“With that uh “Mr Fist of Justice” fellow you've been seeing…” that actually gets Corbeau to raise a curious eyebrow. “Oh and why is that Philippe?”

“Well boss I've heard he's not exactly…” Philippe coughs into a fist “The brightest bulb in the bunch?”

“I seem to recall that you're the exact same way Philippe and I keep you around” Corbeau shrugs.

“Harsh…” Philippe grumbles “But boss I'm being serious right now!”

“I am too.”

“After everything we've done! All the blood, sweat, and tears! Do you really want to throw away the Rust Syndicate’s reputation for… him?” Corbeau finally looks up from his work. He's got dark circles under his eyes that Philippe didn't notice.

“I need this…” Corbeau mutters slowly “You don't know just how badly I need this Philippe!” He feels the rooms temperature drop several degrees “…Boss?”

“Last time I checked giving a damn about my personal life wasn't part of your job description. I made sure of that” Corbeau smiles, stands up from his desk, and makes his way outside “Now if you'll excuse me. I need a break.”

Philippe decides to never question Corbeau again.

Chapter Text

Corbeau: H-hello?

Corbeau answers the unknown number on his phone and hates how shaky his voice sounds. This isn't him. This has never been him. A leader does not get scared!

Ivor: Hi Beau…

He has long since stopped tying to get Ivor to call him by his full name. A nickname is way too affectionate. It probably means Ivor genuinely likes him. A leader shouldn't get scared!

Ivor: You weren't here when I woke up…

The disappointment in his voice shouldn't make Corbeau feel so bad. A leader is always prepared!

Corbeau: Your sister kicked me out.

Gwynn practically shrieked at him when she saw he was with Ivor. And even though he was the (conscious) adult in the room Corbeau didn't want to cause a commotion.

Ivor: Awee don't worry about Gwynn she's just protective!

Corbeau thinks that both siblings are. That gives him a tiny smile.

Corbeau: How long have you been awake?

Ivor: Oh just a few minutes… I couldn't convince Gwynn to let me use her phone so she got a nurse to tell me how to use the one in the room.

Corbeau: And you just had to call me because…?

Ivor: If I know you as well as I think I do you're catastrophizing Beau...

Ivor: Oh Gwynn just said she's surprised I know what that means!

Ivor: What I mean is that I think you're really blaming yourself right now Beau and I need you to stop doing that!

There's this ache within Corbeau. One he still doesn't know how to describe. It occasionally makes him feel strangely giddy. Right now it feels like he can't breathe.

Corbeau:…I'm sorry.

That's all Corbeau can manage to say. How pathetic. A leader is never at a loss for words!

Ivor: There's no need Beau! Really I'm fine! Everythings fiiiine…

Corbeau hears Ivor yawn.

Corbeau: You should rest. You need it.

Ivor: Yeah yeah… When can I see you Beau?

Corbeau: You really want to? See me?

For a second Corbeau catches his breath again.

Ivor: Well yeah... I missed you when I woke up...

Corbeau: Tomorrow then.

He blurts out. If he has to wait any longer he'll probably lose his mind.

Ivor: Okay see you…

“Ivor I…” Corbeau starts but his throat closes up as he hears the phone hang up.

Chapter Text

“I am so glad the elusive Grisham can finally join in my tournament!” Jacinthe claps. The red head blushes “Ah well I don't think I'm that hard to find. I am always at my cafe truck of course. Afterwards why don't you all stop by at Flare Noveu for a drink!”

Corbeau scowls as everyone cheers. “Boss are you alright?” Philippe asks him. “It's bad enough that Jacinthe makes us come to these things” which Corbeau actually kind of likes but he'd never admit it out loud “Now he's here!!”

Philippe hums “Is he the guy who you-ack!” He's cut off by Corbeau yanking on his tie “Didn't I tell you never to talk about that?! Especially in public? Ugh why do I bring you along with me? You're not even invited…”

“I think it was so you could look more intimidating by comparison boss but maybe you can relax for once? We're among friends aren't we?” Philippe gestures at everyone mingling before the tournament starts. Canari and Gwynn are taking selfies. Tarragon questions Jacinthe about her holocaster. Taunie is trying to get Grisham's plus one Griselle to relax.

“She reminds me of Carmine…” Corbeau mumbles. As Taunie pulls a rather flustered looking Griselle around introducing her to everyone. “Yeah you've said so before boss.”

Suddenly Grisham’s infuriating laughter snaps Corbeau out of whatever melancholy he was about to be lost in. Grisham, Lebanne, and Ivor are talking together. Lebanne seems to be telling a story that's making Grisham laugh and Ivor seem uncharacteristically fidgety.

“Well either way” Grisham places a hand on Ivor's shoulder “I sure do hope we end up battling Ivor. You know the best way to get to know someone is through a battle…” It could have been a trick of the light but Corbeau swears he sees Grisham wink at him.

For some reason the whole interaction makes his blood boil.

“I'm gonna kill him” Corbeau mutters voice low and deep. Philippe rolls his eyes. The boss is in deeper than I thought…

Chapter Text

“Welcome to The Fist of Justice” Gwynn says in a rather monotone voice not looking up at whoever just arrived “Morning training has already begun but you can still sign up to-” she actually glances at them once she thinks their shoes are too shiny.

It's Corbeau. Infamous leader of the Rust Syndicate. He looks amused and that puts the fear of Arceus in Gwynn. “Oh no oh no no no no what in the world did my knucklehead brother do this time???” she groans. This was it. Ivor just pissed off one of the most powerful people in the city and they were about to lose everything. She briefly considers maybe running back into the sewers and letting Ivor deal with the consequences of his actions on his own.

Corbeau raises an eyebrow “Why are you assuming I'm here for a bad reason?” Ugh his voice is silky smooth. It's the deceptively creamy texture of poison sliding down one's throat.

“You never seem to show up for any good reason…” Gwynn mutters then clears her throat “Well uhhh Ivor has a tendency to be… Loud? A lot? Break-y? Ohhhhh noooooo did he break something of yours? Are we now in your debt until we die???” Ivor tells her he doesn't cause damage on purpose but she honestly doesn't believe him.

“That's not… I don't…” Corbeau sighs pinching the bridge of his nose “No. Ivor didn't do anything wrong. You can relax. He invited me.”

“And you actually came?” Gwynn is so stunned the question slips out.

Corbeau shrugs “He seemed excited at the prospect. I have nothing to lose.”

“Except for maybe a few braincells…” Gwynn mutters really only just now noticing how short he is “Go right ahead I guess. If Ivor asks you to participate… Don't. I can't have him breaking you like one of my phones…”

That actually manages to bring a chuckle out of Corbeau “I can assure you I'm a lot sturdier than a phone.”

Corbeau makes his way to the field, Gwynn doesn't follow him, and she hears Ivor yell out his name. “Broooo what the hell are you thinking…” Gwynn wonders aloud as she texts Canari telling her if she or Ivor are mysteriously found dead it's Corbeau’s fault. And also her brother's.

Chapter Text

The staff of the Hotel Z sit around and chat while they wait for their strange guests to emerge from their room.

“Do do you guys think Corbeau and Ivor are dating?” Taunie asks. The question had been eating up at her ever since they checked in the night before.

The kids take a second to really process what that means before Lida answers “Awe I think they'd be cute together. Carmine is always saying that uncle needs to relax more often! Plus did you guys hear Ivor call him “Beau”?”

“True true that was adorable.”

“Whose Carmine?”

“Cousin.”

“Okayyyyy riiiiiight anywaaaays Corbeau doesn't seem like the kind of guy who dates to me” Naveen hums “He's more like one of those guys on TV whose got a hot person standing near him you know?”

“Yeah yeah I get it” Lida nods enthusiastically “With that logic I guess that means uncle’s dating Philippe instead?” They all do agree that Philippe is usually standing near by Corbeau.

But Taunie is the first to rebuff that “Mmh I don't know… Corbeau is Philippe's boss and wouldn't that make working together weird? That would be like if Vinnie started dating gran…” Not that she would mind that. Vinnie is pretty great.

“Jett and uncle do seem to be the same kind of professional so yeah maybe that would be weird” Lida shrugs.

Naveen snickers “Did you ever tell her that Corbeau once got you into debt?”

“Nah I just kinda pretend that never happened!” Taunie rolls her eyes “I mean Corbeau did end up paying it off for me…”

“If you ever do decide to tell her PLEASE let me be there I want to see her kill Corbeau!” Naveen laughs.

“Gran wouldn't harm anyone!!… At least I don't think she would! Not on purpose at least!” Taunie stutters out.

Lida takes a worried glance at the elevator “They're taking a long time do you guys think we should check up on them?”

“No!!!” Naveen furiously shakes his head “My parents told me you're never supposed to disturb adults when they want “alone time”!”

“But like what if something happened?” Lida whines “What if we're being terrible hosts by not checking up on them?”

Taunie tilts her head to the side “Lida what could possibly happen?”

“Other than Ivor breaking Corbeau in half…” Naveen mutters then retracting his statement when he sees the horrified look on Lida's face “I'm joking I'm joking! I'm sure being a scary mob boss means you're tougher than you look!!!”

“Is this like… weird?” Lida ponders “To be talking about guests like this?”

“Girl I think whatever we have to say about them is the last thing on their minds…” Naveen sighs “Okay I'm starving! You two babysit the weirdos while I go out to buy some breakfast!”

“You could always have my curry!” Taunie shouts at him.

“I will not!”

Chapter Text

Philippe returns from the hospital with Corbeau in tow who seems to be a lot more stressed than he thought. “Hey boss why don't you go upstairs and rest? I'll put out the leftover fires!”

Corbeau doesn't listen to him as he makes his way to the battlefield “I don't need to rest I need some stress relief” he practically growls.

“Arlyne finish the job!” Corbeau sends out his Scolipede “Now Philippe!”

“On it boss” despite his reluctance Philippe knows very well to do what he's told “Commander shots fired!”

“Arlyne gunk shot!”

“Commander night slash!”

Usually Corbeau’s fighting style is polished. He's so thoughtful so calculated but now he's being rash. Corbeau would never fight like this in the Infinite Royale or else he wouldn't have made it to the Rank D he once had. He's being uncharacteristically reckless and angry that Philippe's Skarmory can easily dodge every one of Arlyne’s attacks.

“I'm the one whose supposed to look out for Lumiose and it's people not the other way around!” Corbeau screams.

“Boss you did what you could!” Philippe replies “Commander night slash!”

“But it wasn't enough! It's never enough!” Corbeau gets more and more frustrated as the battle goes on “Arlyne mega evolve and use x-scissor!”

“Ah shoot Commander follow suit and use air slash to parry her!”

Both Pokemon glow and transform. They shriek at each other and collide. “Boss I really think you should be-” Philippe is about to insist they stop this when he notices Corbeau has been crying. There's an absolutely wild, furious look on his face but the tears running down it clearly shows he's angrier at himself than anything else.

“I'm useless! I let someone I care about get hurt! Why do I have to lose everyone that I love?” Corbeau howls and collapses to his knees. Arlyne and Commander notice this and revert back to their normal forms before rushing to his side to comfort him. They both nuzzle Corbeau purring softly in an attempt to calm him.

“Boss are you okay?” Philippe also makes it to him “Are you hurt?”

“Of course I'm not hurt! Because Ivor saved me! Ivor put my own life ahead of mine and now and now… I wish he hated me. I wish he couldn't stand me!” Corbeau groans “Things would be so much easier if he didn’t love me…”

“Yeah maybe…” Philippe sighs “Things would be easier but… you wouldn't be nearly as happy as you have been lately boss…”

Arlyne lets out a noise that sounds like she could agree with him licking tears off of Corbeau's face.

“I may not think Ivor is the best for the Rust Syndicate's image…” he's too goofy too much to handle on occasion “But he does seem to be whats best for you at the moment… Corbeau.”

“That's very kind of you to say Philippe” Corbeau let's out an amused snort. The man has never been the most comforting person but he does try.

“Well I do care about you boss!”

“You care about the Rust Syndicate…” Corbeau removes his glasses wiping his face with a sleeve feeling rather embarrassed now. He stands with Arlyne’s help and Commander playfully nudges him.

“I think that the Rust Syndicate is just what Kalos needs! And you are the perfect boss for the job Corbeau so I do indeed care about you!” Corbeau has been through far too much. He's clawed his way out of his miserable younger years then had to deal with the aftermath of his… sponsor turning out to be a less than okay person. Philippe really admires him.

“And I'm sure Ivor is gonna be okay! We left him unconscious but alive!” Philippe assures him.

“I sure hope so…” Corbeau mumbles darkly.

Roto Roto Roto!!!

Corbeau's phone appears screen flashing with an unknown number. He answers it “H-hello?” he hates how scared his voice sounds.

Chapter Text

“Oh Corbeau you're a delight!” Jacinthe giggles putting her tea down on the table before she spills it.

Corbeau shrugs “I don't know why people keep saying that I'm genuinely not…” He has such a strange reputation in Lumiose. Some people say he's a villain who stalks for people to put in debt and force labor from. Others say he's a saint who wants nothing more than bring prosperity to the people of Lumiose. He won't confirm or deny anything. It's good to keep people guessing.

“I'm looking forward to you joining my next tournament!” ah there it is. The inevitable insistance when they meet up to eat and chat.

“And I'm looking forward to dodging every invitation you send me” he snorts knowing full well he'll end up competing anyways.

Jacinthe also knows that perfectly well “It's adorable you think you can avoid me!” it's practically impossible to refuse her “You are one of my star players Corbeau! Once only a single rank below me in the ZA Royal!”

“Have you ever considered how great we would be if we were together?” he asks her. Jacinthe is a very attractive woman. More than that she has money and influence. With their combined powers they could make work in all of Kalos not just Lumiose City.

“Perhaps” Jacinthe hums taking the most dainty sips of tea “But there's no one for me but my sweet Lebanne!” Her violet eyes glitter. How curious! Corbeau wasn't entirely sure what sort of relationship Jacinthe and her maid had.

“Sweet isn't exactly the kind of word I'd use to describe Lebanne…” apparently the woman could get so rowdy she once beat Ivor in a battle that he still won't tell Corbeau the finer details about.

Jacinthe tuts at him like Corbeau is a silly child “Ah well once you get passed her more dragon-ish qualities Lebanne is a princess!”

“Is that why you dress her up as a maid?” Corbeau snorts.

“My Lebanne made a silly little bet underestimating me now she has to face the consequences” she raises an eyebrow at him “Surely you understand this more than any Corbeau? People must pay.”

“Ah well I suppose” Corbeau shrugs trying to be as nonchalant about this as possible.

“Please don't play coy I see what you've done to poor Ivor” she pronounces his name like “ee-vor”.

“What?” Corbeau asks genuinely unsure what she means “I haven't done anything to Ivor…”

Jacinthe puts on an absolutely wicked grin “The make-up you use is an adorable attempt to hide the marks but they're still noticeable…”

“O-oh” Corbeau suddenly realizes what she's referring to. He's not a flustered man by any means. He left every mark with pride but to have someone point them out and the context…

“Wait that's not me punishing Ivor in any way… I swear I just-” Jacinthe dismissively waves at him “Please Corbeau I have no interest in what you do in bed.”

“Then why did you bring it up?” Corbeau polishes his glasses just to have something to do with his hands. “I simply wanted to confirm my suspicions. So I must ask now… If you are that close with dear Ivor why do you suggest we make a partnership?” Oh the million dollar question.

“Ours would be a purely logical one” Corbeau shrugs “Perhaps I'm more ambitious than you thought.”

“Ambition isn't a sin but…” Jacinthe has this strangely sympathetic look in her eyes “There are other things to life Corbeau. The comfort our power wields gives us the rare ability to indulge.”

Chapter Text

“Are you sure about that guy? He's weird…” Gwynn asks Ivor as soon as Corbeau is out of earshot.

Ivor takes another second to admire Corbeau's retreating form before replying “Oh people call me weird all the time so I guess we're the perfect match!”

“No! You're weird in a silly way…” there's this goofy dare she say almost lovestruck look on Ivor's face “Corbeau… there's something off about him. I don't like it….”

Ivor let's out this hilariously exaggerated sigh “Now normally I'd take your worries very seriously lil sister! But I've really gotten to know Beau and I like him!”

“Y-you gave him a nickname I uhh…” Gwynn takes a deep breath “I have to go!” This is too far she thinks her brother may actually be insane.

“Huh where?”

“T-to Canari’s!” Gwynn stutters out the first place she thought of.

“Are you sure? I could come with y-”

“Ivor I'll be fine!!” Gwynn snaps. She slightly regrets it seeing the hurt look in his eyes. “Okay… if you say so… don't stay out too long…” Ivor mumbles.

Gwynn makes it to Canari’s garage with perfect practiced ease and is happily let in by her grandfather Tarragon “Hey Nari you busy?” she asks poking her head into her room. Even though they are friends Gwynn can't help still feeling rather flustered around her.

“Never too busy for you G-Volt! What's up ya wanna game?” Canari holds out a controller for her.

“You know what? Yeah… I need a distraction…” they both settle into a comfortable silence. The game is some sort of racing one in which Canari smokes the competition and Gwynn being far too distracted ends up dead last every time.

Finally Canari pauses the game. Something she would only ever do for Gwynn. “Okay what's troubling you girl?”

“Ivor same as always…” Gwynn mutters.

“Sometimes it's like you're his big sister and not the other way around!” Canari rolls her eyes “What did the big lug destroy this time?” she asks expecting the same old same old complaints Gwynn has about Ivor.

“He’s just become really obsessed with Corbeau!” Gwynn groans. She shouldn't say that out loud she's just manifesting disaster.

Canari blinks. “That sure is weird” and rather unexpected “Whose Corbeau again? We've met a lot of people recently…”

“The short one…”

“Ohhhhh the guy with the glasses who looks angry all the time!” Canari imitates Corbeau's signature scowl-y look then giggles “What in the world did your brother do to get in trouble with that guy?” Certainly this can't be as bad as Gwynn is making it out to be. Corbeau is tiny! Exceptionally so compared to the behemoth that is Ivor!

“That's just it I don't think Ivor did anything this time he's just seeking him out on his own!” Corbeau seems like the complete and total opposite type of person Ivor would care about.

“Awee you're worried!” Canari reaches out and ruffles Gwynn's hair. She blushes madly unsure if from her friend’s touch or how annoyed she's feeling “Of course I'm worried! Corbeau is bad news I just know he is! Ivor is gonna regret this!”

“Hmm” Canari hums then types on her phone “Well a quick search says everyone loves the guy… Oh top result being how he's sponsored that Hotel Z Taunie and the others work at and now it's gotten some crazy business!!”

“I bet that's all a front to hide what he's really like” Gwynn stubbornly mutters.

“You know what G-Volt?” Canari picks up her controller and continues the racing game not nearly as freaked out as Gwynn is “I think your brother is an adult who can make whatever stupid decisions he wants to and deal with the consequences…”

“I don't know…” Gwynn sighs following suit still not completely okay but feeling better just being with Canari “I just think this latest stupid decision is much worse than the usual…”