What's this? Eric566 uploaded something?! OMG HE'S ALIVE OMG OMG
Yeah, sorry. This took way too long to write (gotta get back into the swing of things) and I'm sorry if this starts off a little weak... It picks up later on. But yeah, this is the first "real" Special Chapter of the fic!
This takes place approximately two months after Eric came back, and is an insight on how their daily lives are after the end of Team Uncario.
Enjoy!
Special Chapter 1
The Aftermath
Darker... yet darker... He couldn't feel anything. He didn't see anything. But he knew he was falling. He didn't know how long it had been, but he was hungry, scared and angry. After all they had gone through... and it had to end this way?! He couldn't accept that, but he knew he couldn't do much to help his situation... Frustrated beyond belief, the riolu screamed out, unable to hold in his anger. He had to get out of there. For her sake. As he screamed at the top of his lungs, he felt his body growing lighter, and blinding light surrounded him, too intense for him to keep his eyes open. His voice fell silent as he stopped feeling his body... It was over.
Eric's eyes shot wide open, dazed momentarily because of the sudden change of environment. He then remembered where he was and what had happened, immediately relaxing as he took a look around. He was at home, laying in bed, and that had been a nightmare... a nightmare of when he had been trapped in that hellish dimension, a world that was about to be reborn. He shook his head, trying to get those memories out of his head, and closed his eyes, trying to go back to sleeping as he was still tired. He was laying on his back, facing the ceiling, but after just staying there for a couple of minutes he turned to face left, trying to find the perfect posture in the which to go to sleep again. He turned again, this time to the right, and found himself staring at a still peacefully sleeping Elly, her breathing relaxed and her eyes closed, having a good rest for the first time in quite some time.
He stared at her with tender eyes, a smile appearing on his face as he suddenly remembered why he was still there. Half of him wanted to reach over to her face and caress her cheek, whilst the other half wanted to leave her alone and sleep, since she needed the rest. In the end, he succumbed to the first half, his right paw slowly moving towards the eevee right in front of him, touching her cream coloured neck fur and caressing it slightly, moving up towards her cheek, to then move behind her ear, being careful enough to not wake her up abruptly. She purred in her sleep, pushing against his paw unintentionally and muttering something incomprehensible. He smiled once again, leaning closer and planting a kiss on her forehead before stopping, flipping on his back again and crossing his arms behind his head. They still slept in straw beds without pillows, and they were the heroes of that world. He found that fact amazing, yet rather amusing at the same time.
He laid there for a couple of minutes, his eyes closed in a vain attempt to fall back sleep. Eventually, he grew tired, groaning and swearing under his breath, sitting up and looking around the room. It was slightly bigger than the one they had back in the guild, and even that one was pretty ok. There was a bucket filled with water in the corner, a mirror, a small, semi-open chest filled with sheets and blankets they had stored for the winter, and right next to it a huge bookshelf that had originally belonged to Slew, but he had thrown it away after he started rebuilding his house. Seeing as it was in perfect shape, and since Elly was in desperate need of a place to stash her books, they asked Slew if they could but it from him, and he simply gifted it to them. The thing was huge though, and Eric remembered how much of a pain it had been to fit that thing through the door the first time, but it was definitely better than having Elly's books laying all over the room. At it wasn't just two or three, it was like, a dozen of piles scattered all over the room because she liked organizing them by genres.
He glanced at the many books Elly had, already taking up half of the bookshelf, amazed at how many she books she had already read, and even more surprised at the amount of books she still hadn't read. Her thirst for knowledge was amazing, and that he was fine with. What he wasn't fine with, however, was the fact she was constantly trying to get him to read just like she did. He could barely write and she already wanted him to read those kinds of books?! They had argued many times over this, and their discussions almost always ended with him reading two or three chapters from a book before falling asleep. Sure, it was enjoyable, but for him it depended on the book he was reading. Most of Elly's books were either history books, poetry and even dictionaries and encyclopedias! She barely had any cool, mystery books, or adventure ones either. She said that she liked those as well, but that at this moment she needed the knowledge. She always stopped the conversation there too, as if she was hiding something from him.
He shrugged, smirking at his mate's odd behaviour and turning his head to look at the other side, where there was a desk and a chair. He couldn't see what was on the desk very well, but he guessed it was either a book or some letters. He could see a candle holder however, with a small candle on it. It was almost gone, and he remembered with annoyance that it was the last candle. He guessed he'd have to jot that down in the shopping list... whenever he got around to making it of course. He looked behind him, staring at the window. The blinds were still covering it, so barely any light came through, explaining the room's semi-dark ambiance. Judging from how much came in he guessed it was probably late morning, meaning that, once again, he had overslept. And no one had bothered to wake him up.
- Brilliant. - He muttered under his breath, stretching his arms and legs as he got up from the bed, staring at the door to the hallway, to then walk over to it, leaning from side to side, still drowsy. Just as he was halfway there however, he heard a noise behind him. He turned around on the spot and looked at the bed, where the noise had come from. It was Elly, whose eyes were wide open and was trembling, tears in the corners of her eyes. She was staring right at him.
- Please... don't... leave me... - She whispered, sniffing between every word. He quickly walked over to her, getting down to his knees and hugging the trembling pokemon. She kept repeating the word "Don't" over and over, sobbing. He gently rubbed the back of her head, hushing her and rocking back and forth in an attempt to calm her down, as she was clearly distressed.
- It's ok... It's ok... I'm here with you Elly, and I'm not going to leave. - He kept repeating to her, the female still crying softly, even when she eventually managed to fall asleep again, the riolu slowly laying her on the bed, rubbing her head all the time. He felt sad, since he wanted to stay with her and rest for a while, but he had already overslept and didn't want to waste anymore time, since there was a lot of stuff that he had to do. Besides, he'd probably come back in about half an hour to wake her up. He knew she needed some rest, but she barely went out anyways, and when she did, it was only with him.
This time, he quietly got up and tip-toed over to the door, turning the knob slightly and looking behind him. She was still sleeping, to his relief. He opened the door and quickly walked out, then carefully closed it behind him, not before glancing once more into the room, however, just to make sure that she was still sleeping peacefully. After making sure of this, he gently closed the door and stepped back, letting out a sigh. He'd prefer it if he didn't have to do this every time they overslept, but it was the only option. He took a few steps back and turned around, heading down the short hallway, yawning and scratching his back as he headed towards the main room of the house.
There were only four bedrooms in the house, a bathroom at the very end of the hallway he came from, and the main room, to the which he was headed. The biggest room of the house served as the dinning room, the small kitchen, which was located to the left from where he was standing, and a bunch of cushions and a carpet in front of a fireplace, located to his right and that he guessed served as some sort of living room, with a table in the corner surrounded by chairs, where they sat down to eat or chat about important stuff. It was a small house, considering that there were six pokemon living there, but it was manageable.
In front of him and slightly to the left was another small hallway which took to another door that lead outside. He headed over there, passing by a rack filled with the inhabitants stuff. The holes had names written under them, indicating to who that space belonged. The spaces with the names "Eric" and "Elly", which were close together, both located the furthest to the left, were the only ones filled. His' had his trusty blue, long scarf, whilst Elly's had a satchel, which she intended to get rid off whenever she learned how to handle pocket spaces to store stuff in. The others were empty, which didn't surprise him much. Zed and Lucy were out on a mission right now, and they were supposed to come back later that day, whilst Jake had probably left early to help with the plans to rebuild town. Serge... he had no idea where he could've gone off to, but he was almost always out whenever he woke up, so it didn't bother him too much to see the bird's space empty.
He headed for the door however, turning the knob and opening it, sunlight coming into the house, momentarily blinding the small jackal. The sound of voices and townsfolk reached his ears, the riolu covering his face with his arm and taking a few steps out. Once his eyes adjusted to the brightness, he looked around. The town looked as lively as ever, pokemon going left and right, carrying bags and talking with eachother. Every so often someone stopped to say hi to him, and he returned the gesture by raising his paw and smiling. He stood there briefly, taking a deep breath, grateful to be standing there at that moment. He focused his attention on the mailbox to his left, a small, wooded box that had been nailed to the wall with the drawing of a letter on it, a small slot on top of it through the which to put the mail in. He opened the lid at the bottom, two letters falling out, whilst another five or six stayed inside.
- Brilliant... - He muttered as he crouched down and grabbed the letters that fallen out, then grabbed the rest from inside, glancing at them as he closed the box without looking. He checked to see if the letters had been sent to the right address and headed back in, closing the door with his foot as he walked inside, the door slamming shut. It was quite good timing too, because the noise was loud enough that he didn't hear himself swear when he saw that one of the letters was from the Police Department, which meant that it was probably something related with the team, since that place was serving as home for Wigglytuff's Guild for the time being. They still hadn't decided if they wanted to either rebuild the original or build a new one somewhere, so in the mean time they had made the department their home. Needless to say, Magnezone had been everything but delighted by this.
He threw that one onto the table, telling himself he would read it later and checked the rest. Most of them were letters from fans, admirers and some rookie teams asking for tips on how to become better explorers. These were addressed to the team in general, so he put them aside to read them later. There was a single letter addressed to Lucy, and another one addressed to Jake as well, which didn't surprise him that much, since they usually wrote to their families, or Dusknoir, in Jake's case, who was on trial for what he had done during the time freeze. What really surprised him however, was to see a letter explicitly addressed to both him and Elly. He pondered if she should open it, but decided against it, thinking that it would be much better read it together, just like the sender had intended.
Now a little bit excited, he walked over to the table, sat down on a chair and opened the letters from fans, reading them to himself. He was slowly learning how to read, since he had never bothered to do so, and if he had in the past, then he probably didn't remember. Either way, he still had a difficult time, but he could manage to read out some of the words. The handwriting of these letters also determined if he had a good time or a bad time. He chuckled as he remembered a letter they had received a couple of weeks ago. The writer was a child, and their handwriting was so bad that even Elly struggled to understand it, but eventually they had figured it out and answered the little pokemon.
After reading all of these letters he glanced at the one from the department, sighing in defeat as he decided to open it and see what kind of deal or rule they had broken. He barely even opened the letter when he immediately recognized the writing as Chatot's. "Oh boy..." He thought to himself. His letters were never good, and this one was no exception. The letter basically talked about some rumours that had been spreading around town that him and Elly weren't doing any work and were taking advantage of the benefits that being explorers gave them, and demanded the riolu and the eevee to go over there and give him an explanation.
He leaned against the chair, his arms slumping down besides, chuckling in defeat. This why he loved and hated Chatot. He made him laugh for all the wrong reasons. Those weren't rumours, they were the truth, neither him or Elly were doing anything. The reason for this however, was because neither of them was in shape to come back. It had barely been two months since he had seemingly come back from the dead, and Elly was still going through a rough time because of the nightmares, and now this guy was asking him to go over there and explain himself? "The nerve on this guy!" He thought to himself, chuckling.
Just then, the sound of a key fitting into a lock was heard, and moments after that the main door swung open, closing moments after that. The sound of someone taking off a satchel and stuffing it somewhere was heard, and moments after Serge came out of the hallway, immediately seeing the riolu. - Hey! Good morning! - He shouted, surprised to see him up so early. The riolu spun around on the chair and looked at him, his eyes wide open, putting a finger in front of his lips and hushing him.
- Lower your voice! Are you stupid or something?! - He whispered loudly, the bird looking at him confused. The riolu rose his left paw and pointed down the hallway with his thumb. The Pidgeot added the numbers and understood what the riolu meant.
- Ooooh... Alright, sorry, sorry... Dang man, how am I supposed to know she's still snoozing? If anything, you should be there, sleeping with her. - He responded, a little annoyed. Eric rolled his eyes, sighing and turning to face away from him, returning his attention to the letters on the table, grabbing his head with both of his paws, rubbing his forehead.
- I know I know... But I really have to do something man... I know that I should be there, resting... But I just can't rest peacefully knowing you guys are doing all the job whilst I'm slacking off, you know? I feel I should be doing something else... I'm the leader of this team for crying out loud! - He said, once again, in a loud whisper, both answering his friend's question yet at the same time bashing himself for not being to decide between either of those two options.
Serge couldn't help but chuckle. - That's your problem? Jeez, if I were you, I wouldn't have trouble choosing. - He said. The riolu turned his head slightly and shot a glare at the flying-type, who waved his wings around. - Hey hey, no need to get all flustered, dude. I'm speaking the truth here. - He said, placing a wing on his chest. - You and Zed are really lucky to have someone that cares so much about you. I mean, think about it for a second and evaluate your options. You could either work you ass off, helping out the team and accomplish absolutely nothing, or go and be with her. - He said, the riolu staring at him in a mix of shock of confusion, which Serge guessed was because of that last comment. - I mean, it isn't like your help isn't appreciated. No, I'm not saying that. We'd love to have you back on the team, as well as Elly... But I think that right now, there's someone else that needs you more than we do. -
Eric groaned. He did have a point there. He was constantly pushing himself to do something for the team, and then he realized that there really wasn't any need for him to do anything. They always told him to go rest, and that he needed some peace after all that had happened, which he completely agreed with. However, lately he was seeing that they were struggling. Jake was always involved in the reconstruction of Treasure Town, so he couldn't really help with missions, and him and Elly were supposed to be resting for the time being... In other words, out of the six team members, only three were in condition to act, which meant that those three members had to work twice as hard to fill in for the others. And although they shrugged him off, saying that they were fine, they really weren't, he could easily tell. Zed and Lucy were the ones getting it the worst, though, since they handled almost all of the missions the team had to do.
He glanced at Serge, who had a determined look on his face. The riolu placed his paws on the table and pushed himself away from the table. - Alright... you win. I'll try not to do much... for now. - He reluctantly answered, clearly not happy with his answer. However, Serge smirked triumphantly, nodding.
- Alright. If you want, I can take care of those letters if you want me to. - Serge offered.
The riolu smirked. - Sure. Most of them mention you actually. Seems that you've still got tons of fans out there. - The jackal said, making the Pidgeot look away, chuckling and rubbing the back of his head. - If you keep going like that, then maybe we'll hear from your "friends" again, who knows? - Eric asked, smiling devilishly. The smile on Serge's face vanished almost instantly as he remembered his "friends", but then quickly shook it off.
- Yeah right. After the scare you gave them? They'd need some huge balls to try and look for me knowing that I have a "vengeful ghost" on my side! - He laughed, remembering that whole incident. Suddenly, something in his mind clicked, as he remembered something. - Hey, have you told Elly about all that? I mean, those nine months you were gone? - The flying-type asked. The riolu looked at him, raising an eyebrow as he didn't understand what he meant at first. However, he remembered shortly after, and shook his head. - So you haven't? Well, what are you waiting for then? I'm pretty sure she'd love to hear all that happened back there. - The Pidgeot suggested.
Eric got down from the chair and crossed his arms, considering that idea. - Well... There's a reason why I haven't told her... And it's because there's really not much to tell. I just ran around most of the time, having no idea of where to go, asking others directions, staying in houses, doing odd-jobs... The only really interesting thing would be when I found you discussing with those punks, which was basically the end of the whole ordeal. I guess I can tell her that... If you're ok with it of course. - Eric said. Serge sighed and thought about it, approaching the table and somehow picking up the letters with his right wing. - Well... I trust that she doesn't go around town telling that story so everyone... so yeah, why not? At this point I'll risk anything just to get you to sleep more... Because Arceus damn do you need it. - The bird joked, sitting down on one of cushions and reading the letters.
Eric nodded and turned around, facing the kitchen. He could head towards their room straight away... but he wanted to surprise Elly. Smiling to himself, he decided to prepare some breakfast for Elly and himself, seeing as she would probably be hungry when he woke her up. He informed the flying-type about this decision, only getting a nod as a response before heading to the kitchen area. It was fairly small. A counter top with a plank of wood, underneath the which were cupboards full with plates and some glasses. Right next to this small area was a pile of empty buckets, and near it, three buckets filled with crystal clear water from the river. - I brought about six buckets this morning, so we should have plenty for today. - Serge said all the way from the other side of the room as soon as he heard the riolu pick up one of the buckets.
The jackal thanked him and then opened one of the cupboards, inside of the which were some jars and bags of berries. He grabbed the oran and pecha berry bags and grabbed a cookie jar, putting everything on the counter and pulling out a couple of berries from each bag and then stashed the bags away. He then crouched down and opened the bottom cupboards, grabbing a plate and two empty glasses, cleaning his paws by pouring some water into the sink and washing them. He spent at least fifteen minutes cutting berries with his claws, squeezing the juice out of them with his paws and arranging some more berries and cookies on the plate. Eventually, he had prepared a plate filled with cookies and berries and two glasses of berry juice, one Oran, the other Pecha. Grabbing everything as best as he could, he headed towards their room, having to lean against the door to open it.
The blinds were still on, so the room was still a little dark, and Elly was still laying on their bed, sleeping peacefully. She probably thought that Eric was with her right then and there, so... She was going to be really surprised when she saw him with that breakfast. A small glimmer of hope appeared inside of the riolu, thinking that she could finally get over those nightmares that kept her up all night. He approached her quietly, placing the food on the ground and then moved towards the eevee, getting on his knees and shaking her gently. He called her in a low voice, the brown-furred pokemon mumbling something in her sleep as Eric tried to wake her up.
- Mmhhh ah... What... - She said as her eyes opened, looking straight at the riolu trying to wake her up, a smile on his face. Said smile also appeared on her's as she got up, rubbing her eyes with her paws and yawning. - Hey... good... morning? - She asked, confused as to what time of the day it was.
- Yeah, good morning. - He told her. The eevee crawled up to him and nuzzled his chest. - Feeling better now? - He asked her. She looked at him, a little confused, but then remembered her freakout when she had seen him leave.
- Oh.. yeah, a little better... When I saw you getting up and about to leave... I don't know what came over me. I'm sorry if I scared you or anything. - She apologized, the riolu shaking his head. He had been startled at first, but quickly calmed down as he realized that it was Elly panicking over him leaving. The first couple of times he had been really scared though, and he didn't like seeing her like this either.
- Hey, no need to apologize. It isn't your fault that you're getting those nightmares. We'll just bear with them until we find a solution, alright? - He told her, placing a paw on her head and rubbing her affectionately. She pushed against his paw, closing her eyes and enjoying the feeling of his paw caressing her head, making all of her worries disappear. He smiled and pulled his paw away, turning around to grab the food laying on the ground. - I got you something... - He said, then turned around to show her what he had prepared. - Ta daaa! - He exclaimed, a proud grin on his face. The eevee looked at him, surprised by this.
- Wha... Where did you get that from? - She asked. The riolu placed the plate next to the bed, and handed her the glass of Pecha juice.
- I got up before you did and prepared this for us. - He explained, the eevee's face beaming with joy as her mate handed her a glass of juice. She accepted the drink, grabbing it with her psychic powers and placing it besides her, nearing the riolu quickly and planting a kiss on his cheek.
- Thank you, dear. - She whispered, a blushing spreading across the riolu's face, who scratched the back of his head.
- Heh.. It's nothing... Well anyways, how about we eat something? I'm quite hungry. - He told her. The eevee agreed with him and they both began eating. He wasn't lying when he said he was hungry, but she must've been starving, because she ate almost everything on the plate. He didn't even get to taste the cookies, and she ate some of his oran berries too. Just as she grabbed the last oran berry telepathically, she glanced at the riolu sitting on the bed in front of her, calmly drinking his juice. She smiled at him, the berry floating over to him slowly. He stopped drinking and opened his maw, waiting for the berry to just float into his mouth... But it instead smashed against his forehead, juice splattering everywhere.
Elly held in laughter as Eric touched his forehead, confused. - Oh... So this is the thanks I get for making you breakfast? - He asked her. He brought his paw to his mouth and licked the juice. He was suddenly pounced by Elly, almost spilling the glass of oran juice rights besides him, the riolu almost hitting his head against the ground. He found himself staring straight at Elly's sky blue eyes.
No... That's what you get for being my sweetheart... - She answered, then she kissed him on the lips, holding him there for a good six seconds until breaking the kiss. - And that's what you get for being so handsome... - She followed, getting off of him and turning around, looking at the blinds covering the window, using her powers to open them, light finally illuminating the room, the eevee blinking a few times because of the brightness. He got up from the ground, looking at her. Because of the light shining through the window he couldn't see anything else but her figure, but he could clearly see that her tail was lifted. He blushed as his imagination made him remember what was there.
- So... what do I get for making you breakfast then? - He asked. She turned around, smiling at him, lowering her tail and walking past him.
- Keep this up... and maybe you'll find out later tonight... - She teased. The riolu's eyes went wide open, gulping down as her tail brushed along his chest, caressing his body. She giggled as she caught a glimpse of his reaction, then pushed the door open and walked outside. Eric looked at her as she left, shaking his head. Eric got up, cleaning his forehead and picking up the empty glasses and the plate, walking out the room, getting a glimpse of Elly going to the bathroom. He went back to the kitchen where Serge caught his attention.
- So, is she up? - He asked him from one of the cushions, reading one of the letters. He nodded, placing everything on the counter top. There was a silence between the two pokemon before the riolu heard the bird snicker. - So, when are you going to prepare my breakfast Eric? - He asked. The riolu groaned in response, making the Pidgeot chuckle. - Well anyways, couldn't help but snoop at Chatot's letter. That guy really doesn't get it, does he? - Serge asked, just as annoyed as Eric had been when he read that letter.
- Well you know how he's like. I'll go speak with him later today... Maybe I could convince Elly to tag along. - The riolu said out loud.
- Tag along for what? - Elly asked as she came out of the hallway, feeling much more refreshed. She looked at Serge. - Good morning! - She exclaimed.
- Hey there! About time to woke up! How's the sleeping beauty doing? - The bird asked her.
- Fine, I guess... Tag along for what? - She asked the riolu once again.
- Apparently Chatot either didn't hear that we're resting for the time being or he's being an ass, because he's requested us to go over to the department and explain to him why we aren't doing anything. - He said, resting against the kitchen counter.
- Arceus he really doesn't know when to leave us alone does he? - Elly sighed. - Well, if we both have to go, I guess I'll tag along… - She said, quite annoyed.
Eric noticed this, and quickly came up with something. - Well… I was actually planning on going there tomorrow, because neither you or me want to go talk with him. - He admitted, the eevee looking at him, curious as to what the riolu was thinking about.
- So, what do you want to do today then? - She asked him.
The riolu thought about it for a while, trying to come up with something to do. He suddenly remembered when he was sitting inside of their room and he had seen that the last candle was almost gone. - Well… We have to buy some stuff! We have to buy candles, because we've run out, and we need them to see in the dark… and we also need… - He stopped, trying to think of something, gulping down as he came up with something. - And vegetables! For… for today! We… we're going to cook something special today for Zed and Lucy. They'll be back here around at midday, right? - He asked the eevee.
She tried to remember what the shinx had told her telepathically last night. She did mention that they were on their way home, and would be there by sunrise, but… they hadn't arrived yet, so maybe Eric was right and they would get there for lunch? She didn't know. - I could ask them, but… Either way, I like what you're saying Eric. - She said, agreeing with Eric's proposal. - Let's go shopping today! I really want to go around town and check how everyone's doing. - She added, smiling.
The riolu smiled back, the eevee dashing to their room, saying she wanted to get prepared. The jackal headed to the entrance and picked up his scarf, tying it around his neck. - You want to come too, Serge? - He asked. The bird shook his head in response.
- Nah, I think I'm gonna stay in for today and answer some of these letters. Say hi to anyone for me though! - He exclaimed as Elly came out from the bedroom, bounding happily towards her mate.
- Will do! - The eevee exclaimed. She stood in front of Eric, showing the riolu her fur. - How do I look? - She asked. Her fur wasn't as messy as before.
- Gorgeous, as always - He answered, the eevee giggling and nuzzling his side as she walked past him. He headed towards the entrance with her, turning around to wave goodbye to Serge. - We're off! - He exclaimed.
- Aight, see ya later! - The bird exclaimed from inside the house, his voice a little drowned out by the sound of of townsfolk going left and right. Eric shut the door behind him as the duo left the house. Elly waited for the riolu to catch up and they both began walking down the street. They were greeted repeatedly by other inhabitants of Treasure Town, and even other pokemon they had never seen before, but had heard of their feats and admired the riolu and the eevee.
"Can't believe pokemon come this far to just meet or talk with us... This fame thing feels weird at times..." Elly mentioned telepathically to Eric as they waved goodbye to another group of pokemon, promising that they would speak with them later. They were almost at the market place, and all of the action and conversations happening around them made it impossible to speak with one another verbally.
"Well, I don't think it's so bad. We meet new pokemon, and they fulfil their wish to meet us. And if you find that weird, then I'm going to guess you haven't read many of the letters we've been receiving, have you?" Eric asked her, to which the eevee answered negatively, the riolu sensing her embarrassment. He couldn't help but chuckle. "Well remind me when we get home and I'll show you some of the downright WEIRD stuff we've received. There was this one letter where someone claimed to be our number one fan, and wanted to become our slave." She glared at him, her eyes wide open. "I'm not even kidding." He answered, remembering his own reaction when he had read those words. He had been just as shocked as she was right now, or even more, considering what kind of slave said pokemon wanted to be...
They dropped the conversation at this point, seeing as it would only get weirder from the on, and decided to talk about what they were going to buy. The riolu quickly listed off the things he had planned on buying that morning: Candles, berries and some more ink, seeing as they were running low on the first and the third, and wanted to buy berries just in case. He also mentioned buying some food to prepare a special feast for when Zed and Lucy came back from the mission, to which Elly agreed wholeheartedly. Those two were probably going to be exhausted when they arrived, and nothing cheered up a hungry pokemon than a good meal. "You know what?" Eric thought. "I'm going to help with the food today. I want to help you as much as possible today." He added. She looked at him, her face beaming, nuzzling his side as they were really close together because of the flow of townsfolk around them.
"Thank you… Though I have to ask, is this because of what I told you this morning?" She asked, clearly referring to her words that morning. He chuckled. To be honest, he wasn't doing it for that, but… said "reward" was just an added bonus. However, he decided to follow her game.
"Could be… What do you think?" He asked her, leaning closer and pinching her backside, the eevee yipping and blushing.
"You moron! Not in public!" She exclaimed in their minds, both angry yet at the same time amused, Eric laughing as he found her reaction quite funny. And besides, at this point she was just asking for it. Thankfully, since everything around them was so hectic, no one saw how the riolu pinched the eevee's rear. A few seconds later he realized just how much of a reckless thing that was, and kind of regretted it, basically because it could've ended awkwardly… But since that hadn't happened, he was satisfied.
After a few more minutes of nudging and pushing through the crowd, they finally came up to the Kecleon's brothers' shop… Or rather, Kecleon's shop. The green chameleon was attending all of the pokemon that were in the cue, but slowly, Eric and Elly arrived to the front, where the Kecleon saw them. After dismissing the last pokemon, waving goodbye, the green lizard waved at them. - Well, I'll be darned! Elly! - He exclaimed, getting up from a chair behind the counter, picking up his walking cane and slowly walking outside.
Elly couldn't help but smile and rush to the Kecleon who had been his protector for a third of her life. - It's been so long! Where have you been? - He asked, pulling her into a hug, which the eevee returned.
- I was resting for a while, since I needed to recover from what had happened… but now that I'm feeling better, I decided to come here with Eric. - She said, returning to standing on four paws and looking at Eric, who smiled at the Kecleon, both of the pokemon shaking hands.
The green pokemon laughed. - I always wondered why he came alone with such a beautiful girl by his side! - The Kecleon joked, making the eevee blush whilst Eric laughed. - I think there's someone else you might want to see... - He then turned to face the shop. - Marill, come look at who's here! - He exclaimed. Shortly after, the small water mouse came out of the shop. However, instead of his trademark smile and innocent eyes, his face was serious, and almost looked bored. That was until he saw Eric and Elly, the instant in which his eyes widened.
Oh... Hello. - He said, neither Eric or Elly being able to grasp if the water type was happy to see them or didn't really care that much. The duo both waved at him, smiles on their faces, hiding their surprise when they saw the small mouse so... changed. - I'm sorry, I can't talk right now. I am organizing the wares. If you'll excuse me. - He then immediately walked back in, not saying anything else.
The trio stood there, dumbfounded, but Kecleon's heartily laugh dismissed their worries as he shook off Marill's odd behaviour as "hormones". - Hohoho! He's growing up, the poor boy! He's been a real help, and is growing up really quickly. I keep telling him that if he keeps going that way, he'll become as strong as his brother one day! - His laugh then slowly died, as the ambience recovered it's tense atmosphere, the bustle around them not even coming close to ease them. The Kecleon coughed, calling the two young pokemon's attentions. - Anyways...What do you want? I'm in a good mood now, so I'll give you a fifty percent discount! - The two team members looked at him. They were the greatest heroes alive, and this is how they were being treated? - And an added twenty percent for being the heroes of the world! - He added as soon as he saw the looks on their faces.
The two pokemon quickly regretted that, and insisted on paying the full price of whatever they bought, to which Kecleon laughed once more. The chameleon was a symbol of hope in Treasure Town. Even after losing his brother, and the use of his right leg, he worked twice as hard on his shop and always laughed. He hadn't lowered his prices however, which had caused some arguments between some of his costumers, but there was a good reason for this. Everyone was in a bad spot, and the food was more expensive than ever. The money the ETF had sent to help had only done so much, and Ferrus was trying his hardest to convince the regional governors to send some help to Treasure Town, but of course, they weren't the only ones having a hard time. Everything was desolated after both the Time Freeze and the Rebscura and Team Uncario attacks, so there was a lot of work to be done everywhere, although one could argue that the small coast town had gotten it the roughest.
- Good grief! This is a lot of food! - Kecleon pointed out as he and Marill brought everything out of the shop, both Eric and Elly handing him all the money. - Are you two preparing something special? - He asked, eyeing the bag with some gummies, which were really expensive at the time, but just in general the amount of food on the counter. Eric picked up most of the bags, and Elly lifted the rest with her powers.
- Yes and no. We want to make something for Zed and Lucy, who are coming back from a mission today, but we usually buy a lot of food so it lasts us for a week. Besides, remember there's six of us. - Elly reminded her green protector, whose eyes went wide open, Marill returning to the inside of the warehouse without saying a word.
- Six pokemon in one house! Arceus, where do you get some privacy in there? - He joked, all three of them laughing, the team members walking away and waving goodbye, promising to return soon. A few steps away from the stand Eric felt something tugging at his bags.
"Let me help you..." Elly said telepathically. He shook his head in response. He was determined to help her as much as possible today and keep her from doing too much exercise both physically and mentally. She smiled. "You're so sweet..." She then added in response, the riolu smiling proudly. That was the moment where they went temporarily deaf as their ears were almost blown out by a extremely loud shout.
- YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! - A voice shouted so loudly that everyone in town turned to look at the source. Eric and Elly didn't even have to turn around to know who it was. Their ears were already telling them that it was Loudred, from the guild. And he wasn't alone.
- Idiot! I told you not to shout that loudly! - Sunflora exclaimed as she slapped the back of Loudred's head with her right leaf, making the normal-type yelp in pain. - You' ll make me go deaf at this rate! - She continued, scolding him for being unable to keep his volume down. Everyone returned to their activities as they understood that there wasn't anything bad going on, and the duo's hearing slowly returned to them as the guildmembers approached, Loudred apologizing in a really low voice. For Loudred, of course.
- I still don't understand why I have to talk so softly... I CAN BARELY HEAR MYSELF! - Loudred said all of a sudden, startling everyone once again. He was also slapped on the back of his head once again, courtesy of Sunflora, who was shouting just as loud as he was.
- That's because you're half-deaf, you moron! Jeez! - She pouted, turning around and facing away from the pokemon, who rubbed the back of his head, looking at the grass-type for a moment before looking at Eric and Elly.
- Soo... Yeah guys, what's up? - He asked.
- Nothing much... Almost going deaf. Again. - Eric said, shaking his head, his ears still ringing. He could read Loudred's lips, saying the words "Sorry, got carried away back there.", to the which Eric couldn't help but smile. - It's ok, really. - He answered. However, he couldn't help but snicker as he thought up of something funny. "I'm kind of inclined to say: "I can't hear you very well. Can you speak up?" What do you think?" He asked Elly through telepathy.
"I think that if you do so, you're going to lose all your points for your special surprise tonight." She simply answered. Her ears were much sensitive than his', so he guessed that she was probably having a worst time than he was. He chuckled at her reaction and looked at Loudred.
- In all seriousness, we're doing just fine. What about you guys? How are things coming up in the guild? - He asked, Elly doing small-talk with Sunflora, both of the females chatting about the same topic.
- Things are really hectic lately, mainly because of how many requests for help we've been getting, and at the same time we're trying to help as much as possible in town... Needless to say, these requests and sleeping aren't exactly compatible. - The normal-type said, emphasizing this by putting his fingers together, the riolu laughing. - To make matters worse, Chatot has been going nuts lately, sending everyone on random expeditions whilst him and Chimecho stay here. - Loudred continued. Eric smirked.
- That guy's never going to change, is he? - The riolu asked.
- Nope. - The big-mouthed pokemon answered, almost immediately remembering something. - OH! That's reminds me. Chatot's been asking around a lot for you two. I think he wants to talk with you. - He said to both Eric and Elly. The eevee quickly caught on to whom they were talking about, rolling her eyes.
- You don't say... This morning he sent us a letter to go over to the guild "immediately", but... I don't think he's going to be seeing our tails for at least a few days. - She said between giggles. The rest of the pokemon either rolled their eyes whilst smiling or chuckled. The eevee then remembered something, or rather, someone. - Oh. How's Wigglytuff doing? Haven't heard from him in a long while! - The eevee asked.
Sunflora rubbed her chin. - Well... now that you mention it, we haven't seen much of him either... He's been in his room for a week straight, and the only ones coming in and out are, once again, Chatot and Chimecho. They say he's ill, but that it's nothing to worry about. Then again... It was around that time when things started getting hectic and he began asking for you two. I dunno, maybe the two are related in some way? - The grass-type concluded, expressing her theory on the manner. Eric shrugged.
- Haven't got a clue. Besides, with Chatot and Chimecho taking care of him, I'd say he's in good... paws? No wait, Chatot's a bird so... Paws? Chimecho only has her psychic powers right? - He asked Elly, clearly confused. She rolled her eyes.
- Well duh. - She quickly answered.
- What do you mean "Well duh?" I haven't seen any of them in almost a year, so give me a break! - He quickly answered, trying to recover from that mistake.
- Dude. That's no excuse for you to forget how your fellow guildmembers looked like. - Loudred followed, the riolu groaning in annoyance.
- Well, anyways, glad to see you both again, hope you come back to action soon! We could really use some help. - Sunflora finished, both her and Loudred saying their goodbyes and walking back into the crowd, probably heading back to the guild. The duo said goodbye too, Eric picking up the bags and resuming their walk back home.
"That was… unexpected. It's been so long since I've seen anyone from the guild too. Can't wait to get back into the swing of things and meet everyone again." Elly admitted to Eric, who looked at her, surprised.
"Really? Me too. It's been about two months since I came back, and since then we've both been resting, which I believe is ok, especially since I get to spend some time with you… But lately I've been feeling like… I don't, we're somehow taking advantage of their kindness. I mean, you've seen just how much they all work to keep us floating, whilst… we are just laying in bed and sitting at home all day." The riolu confessed his fears and believes, Elly nodding sadly as she realized she felt similarly.
"It just doesn't feel right to be doing absolutely nothing and have others do the work for you. Sure, we're supposed to be resting, but… If I'm honest, I think we've been resting for far too long." She said. "If I'm honest, the only thing that kept me from saying anything was fear that you didn't want to come back just yet. After all, you were the one that was stranded in the middle of Hoenn for almost nine months." She added.
He chuckled. "Really? Then I should tell you what happened whilst I was lost for nine months." Before she could ask him, he decided to answer. "Nothing, that's what. The first few months I didn't do anything, I was barely conscious at that time. The interesting stuff only happened about eight months in, right before leaving. But I'll tell you more whilst we prepare lunch, ok?"
The eevee nodded, agreeing with the riolu's proposal, seeing as it really wasn't neither the place nor time to be speaking about all of that. They were on their back home, but they had decided to take a detour through the destroyed part of town. Or partially destroyed, since it was being rebuilt. They found more guildmembers along the way, like Croagunk and Bidoof, who were helping with rebuilding the buildings, and also some other inhabitants of Treasure Town, such as Marowak or Kangashkhan. It was at this moment however, that a distressed voice began shouting.
- Come on! How long does it take you to weld two iron beams together! - The usually calm voice shouted. Both Eric and Elly recognized it instantly, and just as they guessed, once they turned the corner and looked in the direction it came, they saw Jake, who was bossing around almost all of the construction workers whilst standing under the shadow of one of the buildings.
- These things take time, ok?! Jeez, you need to cool down, buddy! - Another familiar voice answered from higher up, the duo looking up to see an angry Electro and an almost angrier Charizard, who had smoke coming out the corners of his mouth.
- Wish I could! - The sneasel answered, sitting down on the ground and edging closer to the wall in hopes of avoiding the warmth of the sun. It was then when he saw Eric and Elly waving at him. - Oh, hello Eric, hello Elly! - He waved back, although didn't use his usual formal speech. The team leaders approached their friend and member.
- Good morning Jake! - Eric said, shaking his claw. - Are you doing ok? - He asked. The sneasel groaned, which surprised the riolu quite a lot.
- If by ok you mean having to stand under the shade of a half-finished building just so I do not have a heat stroke, then sure, I am doing just fine. - He answered, a mix of both mild annoyance and anger in his voice. He coughed. - Sorry, I dislike the heat, and summer will be here in approximately twenty-one days, and I'm not looking forward to it. - He said. Eric shook his head, saying it wasn't anything to worry about, but… He was really surprised. He had never seen Jake being so… jumpy.
- Yeah, it's really hot today, even if we're just about to hit summer. But hey, as long as you drink enough and make enough ice, you'll probably be ok, right? - Elly asked. The sneasel shrugged, a little reluctant to tell the eevee that it wasn't that easy. - But anyways, heat aside, how are you doing? How are the reparations coming up? - The eevee asked, trying to change the conversation topic.
However, Jake didn't answer this question. - We're doing pretty well. - Electro said as he came down the stairs. - We've got a third of town rebuilt, and thanks to this guy's brain... - He said, walking up to the sneasel, and punching his shoulder, the sneasel growing in a mix of pain and annoyance. - We've been able to improve the structures, so next time a huge wave comes crashing down or there's an earthquake, these things won't be coming down like they're made out of paper. - He said. - They aren't psychopath proof though... So you'll still have to worry about that. - He added, laughing for a bit, then stopping as he realized that it wasn't really that funny, and that neither of the three pokemon listening to him liked black humor to begin with. - Yeah, uh... We'll take everything from here on out, alright? You can go rest for a while Jake, we'll be ok. - The electric-type tried to reassure the ice type.
Jake sighed in defeat, getting up from the ground and dusting himself. - Alright. I trust you, Electro. Do not hesitate to call me if you require any sort of assistance or any type of complication arises with the structures. If there are any doubts when trying to put the beams together or anything... You know where to find me, I hope. - He inquired.
Electro nodded, smirking. - Come on man. Trust me for once, ok? - The yellow pokemon complained. Jake sighed once more.
I am, Electro. But please, do come to ask for help if any complication arises. - He repeated once more, making the other pokemon swear to do so. After this, Electro returned to his duties, saying goodbye to Eric and Elly and telling them to drop by whenever they felt like it and talk. The two pokemon would surely consider this, but now, they had to get home and prepare lunch, since their fellow team members would be there really soon. Jake joined the two and the trio started walking back home, with Eric standing in the middle, Elly to his left and Jake to his right. - Maybe I do worry too much... - He pondered to himself.
- Nah, I don't think so. I mean, building houses is something really important, considering that pokemon are going to live there. Besides, almost everyone working on the reparations knows zilch about building houses. - The riolu pointed out.
However, this made Jake chuckle. - And what makes you think I know? I am no expert in the matter, I just applied basic logic and physics knowledge to determine just how much weight the beams of iron would be able to stand without bending. I also helped determine where said iron beams should be and how the foundation of the building itself should be laid out so it does not sink later on... Basic knowledge, all of it. And most of it can be deduced in a logical way. - The sneasel said all of this is as if it were something extremely easy... when it was obviously pretty technical.
Elly giggled. - Well, you think that, but not many think the way you do. You're pretty good with numbers Jake. - The eevee complimented him.
- But it is not just numbers Elly. Anyone can blatantly see where a supporting beam should go, or how the foundation of a building should be shaped depending on how wide or tall it is going to be. Of course, there are mathematics involved, but anyone knows how to add up numbers, or subtraction! - He exclaimed, looking at both of his friends. Elly nodded, whilst Eric glanced at him, confused. - Multiplication?! Division?! The basics of mathematics?! - The sneasel exclaimed, clearly distressed.
- We know all of those Jake. In fact, everyone does. It's just that no one really calls them like that, we just... do them. Like, when we have to buy stuff, we pay the money, and we always count if whoever we paid gave us the right change. - Elly said. Eric looked at her, raising an eyebrow, and he could feel something hitting his side with force, making him visibly flinch. He had seen Elly's eyes light up for just an instant, so he guessed that was his cue for not saying anything about the matter. He did know all of the things Jake had mentioned, although he had never heard them being called like that...
- Well, that puts me at ease then. Still, it is incredible how many times I have heard the phrase "Just do it like this, and we'll fix it if it turns out wrong". I mean, relying on trial and error is a good strategy, yes, but it's obviously neither the most efficient nor the smartest. Not everyone can afford to use trial and error to guess what is the best way to tackle a certain problem. Our team is one such example. We must carefully plan our every move before battle to guarantee our success in the mission. - The sneasel replied.
- Well, that's why we have you, Jake! You're the team's strategist. You have to gift to see there things. You look at your surroundings, you evaluate your enemy and then recommend us different strategies. Whether you like to admit or not, you're an essential part of the team. - Eric told Jake, who nodded, appreciating the compliment.
- I know this. But both of you are also very clever, and could easily replace me should I go down in the middle of a fight. - He answered.
- That's not true! You're really good at noticing the small things that really matter, like... You're the only one that sees the rope hidden under the bushes, or the signals that a criminal is making to his partner hiding in the bushes. You're really... really... - The riolu repeated the last word a couple of times, trying to find a word that explained what he meant.
- Observant? - Elly concluded for him.
- Yeah, that! Had it at the tip of my tongue! - He exclaimed, Elly narrowing her eyes, doubting that last phrase. - Anyways... Yeah, you are much better at that than any of us. Don't think we can replace you at any time, because... We can't. You're just as important as the rest of us, ok? - The riolu repeated, trying to convince the sneasel of something he already knew. The ice-type smiled.
- I will remember your words, Eric. Thank you. - Jake said, stopping and bowing in gratitude. He was grateful for considering him such an important part of the team. The two pokemon smiled at the sneasel, telling him to not do that, since they honestly felt bad when he bowed down. After that, they made their way back to their house. Eric put the bags down and knocked on the door, the sound of steps behind the door reaching their ears.
- I'm coming, I'm coming... - Serge said as he opened the door, Eric picking up the bags again. - Oh hey, you're back! - He exclaimed, backing to the side of the hallway to allow the riolu to walk by him and towards the main room. Elly followed him, saying hi again to Serge, who then noticed Jake hurrying inside after the eevee. - Well look who's here! How ya doin', ice king? - He asked the sneasel.
- I'd prefer if you did not refer to me as "ice king" Serge. I do not find it a fitting nickname for me, too... royal for my tastes. Oh, and hello to you too. We did see eachother this morning, remember? - He reminded the bird.
He rubbed the back of his head with his right wing, trying to remember, biting his tongue. - Well... I actually can't remember that... I guess I was too sleepy to even realize. - The bird guessed. Jake rolled his eyes. He guessed it was just that, and that he hadn't caught Serge helping a pretty Staravia sneak out before anyone else woke up. He had seen them both, but had just done as if he hadn't seen anything. There probably wasn't anything wrong with that, but he didn't like Serge's life style too much. As he walked by the bird, he glanced at him from head to toe.
- Yeah, I guess so. - Jake answered. He had just gotten a really strange feeling. That hadn't been the first time he had seen Serge with someone like that, and it certainly wouldn't be the last. What bothered him wasn't that however... it was the implications of this. Someone who desperately looked for that kind of attention... He needed more proof, but he made a mental note to write this down for later. He walked towards the right side of the room and sat on top of one of the cushions, before falling backwards and laying on it, closing his eyes and relaxing for a bit.
Serge glanced at the ice-type and sighed, looking over at Eric and Elly, who were talking about what to cook and storing all of the food. The bird sighed and walked over to them offering to help them store everything. - Nah, it's ok. You guys just sit down and relax, we'll handle everything today. It's the least we can do after all you've been working. - The eevee answered with a smile on her face. The flying-type shot a glance at Eric, and the riolu shrugged in response. Elly eyed the two males, guessing that some kind of conversation regarding her mate's doubts had gone down behind her back. The feathery pokemon walked over to where Jake was resting and sat on the opposite side, muttering something to the sneasel, who got up and shrugged in response.
It was then when Eric remembered the letters they had received that morning, and that he had given to Serge. - Hey Jake! We got a letter addressed to you this morning. It should be right over there on the table. - The riolu pointed at the bunch of letters stacked on the table. Most of them were opened, although there were two letters still unopened. Jake got up really quickly, tripping over one of the cushions and falling to the ground face first, everyone turning to look at him and ask if he was alright. He didn't answer immediately, but instead got right back up, running over to the table and shifting around the letters until he found the one that was addressed to him. He pulled out the claws in his right hand and opened it, ripping the envelope and pulling it out, everyone watching in a mix of amusement and confusion.
He read the first lines to himself, and then hurried over to his room, slamming the door and locking himself inside. An awkward silence floated over the pokemon's heads as they stared at the door to Jake's room. Serge was the one that broke the silence by coughing. - Well then... I guess whatever it was it's important... So anyways, what are you planning on cooking today? - Serge asked them. The couple snapped out of their thoughts and looked at the bird.
- Well... I think we're going to make some roasted berries, and we also bought some gummies, vegetables... a little bit of everything really. - The flying type was already interested as soon as he heard they had brought gummies. - Nice! Now I can't wait for lunch. - He said, honestly exited. The two other pokemon smiled and nodded, then started pulling out everything to cook. Just as they were doing so, Jake walked outside of his room, carrying two letters in his hands, one was the first he had received, the other was a letter that Jake had recently written.
- I will be back shortly. - He announced as he rushed out of the house, shutting the door behind him. The trio that remained inside one again fell silent. Eric and Elly just pulled out all the food to prepare lunch, and just as Jake had said, he was back in a few short minutes, visibly sweating. As soon as he entered the house, everyone stopped what they were doing and looked at the tired pokemon.
- Woah, you look like you participated in a ten kilometre race. - Serge pointed out, the sneasel smirking.
- Make that eight kilometres, plus climbing and jumping above buildings to get as fast as physically possible to the post office. - The sneasel calmly said.
- Climb and jump?! The hell were you doing out there? - Eric asked as he washed his paws, about to start preparing the veggies with Elly.
- I made my way to the post office to answer Dusknoir's letter. Since there are buildings in the way, I just jumped and climbed them. Do not worry, I did not have to use my claws to climb up, so we will not have to pay for any kind of damages. - The ice-type reassured them. However, the other three were already freaking out over the identity of the sender.
- Dusknoir!? Really?! What did he say?! How is he?! - They all started asking all of a sudden. Jake smiled.
- He says he's doing fine. The trial hasn't started yet, but he says that things are looking fine so far. Grovyle and Celebi usually come see him and cheer him up. Apparently, although everyone knows what he did in the future, they also value his efforts in saving the world from Dialga. But the best part, however, is that they're planning to transfer him here in about two months! - He exclaimed, really excited.
- Really?! Awesome?! But... why? I mean, if they wanted to start the trial against him, wouldn't they want him to stay in the capital? - Serge asked. Jake simply shrugged.
- I don't know, but I have a sneaking sensation that Ferrus had something to do with this. - The sneasel theorized. And to be honest, that wasn't that much of a wild guess. Ferrus had helped them quite a huge deal.
- Well, knowing him, that's probably the reason. Anyways, how about we start cooking... - Eric was once again interrupted as they heard familiar shouting from outside the house, and some knocking on the door.
- Is anyone in there?! Hello?! - A male's voice asked from outside. Elly's face went pale as she realized who it was.
- Oh Arceus! It's them! And we haven't even prepared the food yet! Oh Arceus, oh arceus, oh arceus, oh arceus! - She started panicking, not really sure of what to do, saying random stuff and making up ridiculous situations. Before she could even try to come with a solution... She heard Jake calmly saying hello to both Zed and Lucy, who were standing at the entrance.
- Welcome back, Zed, Lucy, it is nice to see you. - Jake saluted. The duo outside couldn't help but smile.
- It's nice to see you too! - Lucy exclaimed, shaking Jake's hand, which he was holding out. Zed also shook his hand, and the duo walked into the house, Elly now freaking out even more. Serge inmediately went over to them and hugged the young pokemon.
- Heeey! About time you two got here! - He exclaimed, putting them down as they complained they were being asphyxiated. - How did it go? Did you catch some perpetrators? - The bird asked, a wide smile on his face.
Lucy moved her head up and down enthusiastically. - Of course we did! We caught a whole gang that had been assaulting some caravans near Voltaire, and we took care of all of them! - She said, then inched closer to Zed. - And all thanks to this brilliant ball of black fur! - She exclaimed, nuzzling him, the zorua blushing madly.
- Hehehe... Well... it wasn't that hard really... We just got the jump on them and coordinated ourselves really well. We just waited inside one of the caravans and jumped out when we were assaulted. They were a group of Poochyenas and a Mightyena, not very subtle to be honest, since they literally announced themselves by howling at the same time before attacking. - Zed explained.
Jake couldn't help but sigh. - What kind of result do these pokemon expect by throwing away the surprise factor? I will never understand why criminals do this. - He said, annoyed.
Serge couldn't help but laugh. - I dunno, I guess they get a kick out of it? Besides, makes our job easier, doesn't it? - The bird asked, Jake shrugging and agreeing with him. He just found it really illogical. At that moment, Eric walked over to the zorua.
- There you are! How's it going, man? - The riolu asked, lowering his fist. The zorua looked at him and bumped his fist, both of them laughing.
- It's going fine! - He exclaimed, then looked at Elly, who was still silent. - Hey Elly! How are you? - He asked politely, the eevee simply smiling and waving at him. Lucy however, didn't accept this, and rushed over to her friend and hugged her, startling the eevee.
- Hey, how's it going, sister?! - She shouted, the eevee screaming as Lucy quite literally zipped to Elly's side in an instant. The eevee looked at her.
- I, uh... I'm doing fine! Thanks! Glad to see you too! - She greeted.
The shinx smiled and looked around, noticing the large amount of food on the kitchen counter. - Woah... What's with all the food? Are you guys celebrating something? - The electric-type asked.
The riolu talking with her mate looked over at her. - Well, since you two have been doing so much work lately, me and Elly decided to cook something special for when you came back. - He said, looking at the mess on the kitchen top, rubbing the back of his head in shame. - But it seems that you got here sooner than we expected, and we haven't even started yet... - He smiled awkwardly, Elly doing the same.
Zed and Lucy looked at eachother, semi-confused. - Oh... that's so nice of you two! Well, we can wait a bit. We had a very strong breakfast this morning. - Lucy reassured them, the duo thanking them for their patience. - Well... While we wait for you guys to prepare lunch, I think me and Zed are going to have a nice, relaxing bath to wash off all the sweat and dirt from the trip. - She proposed this to her mate, who nodded in agreement, the duo walking off to the bathroom. Eric and Elly took this as their cue to immediately get to work, the couple cutting berries and Elly starting the fire and pulling out the cooking pot, filling it with water and putting it on the fire with her powers, whilst Eric prepared some vegetables, silence hanging above their heads.
Eric decided to break this silence. - Hey, Elly... Have I told you what happened whilst I was gone in Hoenn? - He asked his mate, who shook her head whilst watching the pot.
Nope... - She fell silent for a bit as she tried to remember. - Wait... Actually, yeah, I think you said something on our way here, but you said it wasn't really that interesting. - She pulled out a big wooden spoon and put it in the pot, in preparation for when hey put the vegetables in.
- Well, there's some things here and there, like, small moments that I think are worth telling. However, if there's something I'd really like to share right now are the last few weeks, specially when I encountered Serge. - He said, glancing at the bird, smirking. Serge turned around at the mention of his name, looking at him with curiosity. - Mind if I tell them that story, Serge? The one with you-know-who. - The riolu explained. The flying-type thought about it for a moment, and eventually gave up.
- Yeah, go for it man. - Serge gave him his approval, and the riolu nodded as he began retelling the events that lead to him finding Serge and returning home.
Well, it'd surprise you to know that Hoenn is a far more peaceful region than Sinnoh. Well, at least apparently. I had to go through the whole winter and spring, and I managed to pull through thanks to the kindness of the locals. But that's besides the point. As I was saying, it's a far more peaceful region, but at least it appears to be so, as I figured out in the last week I was there. You see, whilst I was making my way to the east coast of the region, I ran into a couple of interesting characters... - He begun.
I made my way out of the dense forest I had been in for the last week, and back out again to the extensive plains, much easier to navigate. I pulled out the bag that I had been given during the winter and pulled out my map. After locating myself at the edge of the Petalburg Woods, I knew I was very close to the coast. I stashed the map into my bag and hesitated to take off my cloak, since it was spring. However, I decided to keep it on, in case it started to rain. It was a small dark blue cloak that matched my fur, with a hood and everything, a really nice gift someone had given me, but that's a story for another day. It was almost mid day, and I had to take advantage of the hours of light, so I began walking through the plains at a fast rate. It felt like hours until I found what seemed to be a dirt road, which I gladly followed, knowing that this would eventually lead me somewhere. I found a Tauros caravan there, and I asked them for directions. They told me that if I kept heading this way I would arrive in Mylon Town, the nearest town to the coast, which was exactly where I wanted to go, since from there I could take a ship to Sinnoh.
I asked them if they were heading there, and they told me so, and that if I wanted to accompany them, an offer I gladly accepted. It took us more than a day to get there, during the which I chatted with the Tauros, a really nice bunch. I didn't tell them who I was, although some pointed out the weird emblem I had on the back of my right paw, which I shrugged off as a silly drawing. I think some might have caught on to who I was, but either didn't believe it or just kept it silent. They also explained to me that they had taken me with them in case some bandits assaulted them. I looked like a strong pokemon to them, and hoped that I would protect them if the situation arose. Thankfully, nothing happened, and we arrived in Mylon, although I first glance I noticed something was off.
It wasn't obvious at first glance, and I probably wouldn't have noticed hadn't it been for my aura senses. There was an ever present feeling of dread and worry hanging over each and every pokemon we saw. I got off the caravan and I thanked them for their politeness in taking them there, grabbing my bag and heading towards the port. On my way there some pokemon shot glances at me, which only peaked my interest as to what was going on in this town. So I took a small detour and headed through the center of town, trying to find a cafe or a restaurant in the which to stay and gather some more info.
I got more than I bargained for however, because soon I noticed some rather shady pokemon following me, I turned around to look at them, tempted to ask what they wanted. They were two Banettes, who immediately turned to face away from me as I looked around. They weren't really good at sneaking around and following pokemon, that I can tell you. I decided to play with them a little, hastening my step and running into a small dark alleyway, in the which I jumped up and clung to the wall, hiding from their sight as they ran after me.
- Where the hell did he go?! - The first one asked, a little anxious.
- He can't have left! This is a dead end! Look around and find him, or else the boss is going to have our heads! - The second one shouted, the duo looking around in the dark alleyway, pushing everything in their path. They looked around for a good fifteen minutes, during the which I had to cling to a wall, suppressing my laughter. The morons eventually gave up and left, heading back the way they had come from. I jumped down and stared at them. I got a sensation that whatever was going down in that town had to do with these two goons, so I decided to follow them, pulling up my hood to cover my head and cover my identity as best I could. They turn around a single time as I followed them through town and out. Whilst I followed them, some pokemon stepped out of their way, intimidated, which confirmed my suspicions. When we got out of town things got a little more interesting, because they would probably find it odd that a cloaked pokemon was following them when the sun was setting.
Still, not once did they turn around, the duo screaming at eachother about how big of an idiot the other was. Honestly, it was kind of comical, but all good things must come to an end as these two went into a small group of trees. I followed them, jumping to the branches and following their every move from there. This time, they did turn around, but since I had just jumped up they didn't see anyone following them. They visibly relaxed as they kept on bickering with one another until we came out to a clearing. I stayed behind, whilst they continued to walk towards a small camp, filled with all sorts of ghost-type pokemon. Ghastlies, Shuppets and some Misdreavus, and a single Mismagius, which I guessed was the leader, form the way he was glancing at the Banettes.
- So... Where is this... "Newcomer" you told me about? - He inquired, the sight of him intimidating the Banettes.
- Well... Uh... We seem to have... lost him. -The first Banette confessed, terrified.
- Lost him?! How do you lost an arceus damned riolu, you imbeciles! - He exclaimed, his face becoming larger, his eyes red and his maw growing in size, sharp fangs shining under the setting sun. - You're ghost-types for crying out loud, you can phase through walls! - He shouted. The two banettes were trembling in fear, hugging eachother as their leader kept shouting. He eventually calmed down, dismissing them. - Bah! Bunch of morons... I'll handle this myself tomorrow! We've got more important business to attend to... Have you seen him? - He asked a Ghastly, who moved up and down. - Good, then he must be close-by... - He muttered, looking up at the sky. - Show yourself, Pidgeot! - He exclaimed.
I literally stopped breathing for a moment, then regained my composure. There were hundreds of Pidgeots in the world, it couldn't be him, right? - Alright, alright, you caught me man... - A familiar voice said, a huge bird like pokemon walking out of the trees opposite of me. Sure enough, Serge calmly showed up in front of my eyes.
- Whoa whoa whoa whoa! WHAT'?! What the hell was Serge doing in Hoenn?! - Lucy screamed at the top of her lungs through the lettuce in her mouth, coughing violently.
- Well, if you had not interrupted Eric as he was telling the story, then we would already know. - Jake answered, cutting a slice of roasted Sitrus Berry with a knife and a fork and putting it inside of his mouth, chewing on it calmly.
- Well, at this rate, we're going to finish eating and we're still not going to know what happened. - Elly said, looking at the riolu besides her. - Could you... go a little faster? - She asked him, the riolu looking at her, confused.
- What? Why do you say that, I'm speaking as fast as I can! - Eric complained to Elly, who shook her head.
Jake was the one that answered however, after gulping down the berry in his mouth. - That is not the problem, Eric. The problem, is that you're taking too long to describe what was happening. We would like it if you could... How do I put this... Get to the point? - He asked, looking at the other pokemon eating with him. - Is this ok to say in this situation? - The sneasel asked again.
Serge nodded, laughing. - Yeah, it is. And they're right man, you're taking way too long. How about I take it from here? - He asked Eric, who crossed his arms and looked at everyone else annoyed. - Alright, fine! Do what you want! I just wanted you guys to get an accurate picture of what was happening. - He complained.
The rest of the pokemon in table either chuckled or giggled, and Serge cleared his throat as he continued the story.
- Ooooh, about time you got here! We've been waiting for you, friend! - Mismagius exclaimed, beckoning me to come closer. I stepped forward, looking at the ghost-type pokemon around me nervously. To be honest, this was the last place in the world where I wanted to be. - Hey, what's going on? - I greeted, looking at a Misdreaveus. - Looking good today! - I just kept on complimenting everyone I passed by until I got to Mismagius. - Hey, Misma! What's up?! How are things coming up, eh? Good, good, right? How's the family, eh? - I asked him as casually as I could, trying to make the situation as friendly as possible.
Though it turned out I was doing quite the opposite, as the guy just glared down at me. - Oh fine, we're doing fine... But how about we skip formalities and cut to the part when you give us our money back, Serge? - He asked me. I gulped down nervously, because, in all honesty, I was fucked.
- Oh... Yeah, about that... You see, I have something funny to tell you. I... I... I don't have it... - I was lifted off the ground as he grabbed me by my neck, flailing around as I tried to escape.
- We gave you five years, and you cam back after SEVEN years, and you STILL don't have our money?! - He asked me. I wanted to say "Yet", but I knew that after that he wasn't going to buy it. I was screwed. - You come back here, knowing that you don't have the money and still have the guts to tell us that you don't have our money?! -He repeated. - Well, in that case, I think we won't only keep the initial payment, but we're also going to take something else from you... Your freedom! - He shouted, my eyes widening as he slammed me against the ground. - Pin him down! - He ordered his lackeys, the two banettes holding me on the ground, spreading my legs. I started shouting as he knew what he was going to do.
- Please, give me a little more time! Don't clip my wings! - I pleaded, but he didn't listen, as he stepped towards me menacingly. However, just then, I saw something blue glowing between the trees, and the next instant, a blue sphere crashed into the ground behind him and sent him flying away. I quickly got up and tried to run away, but I was pinned down by the banettes as they jumped on me. - Oh come on! - I yelled, as I had blown the only chance to get away that I had.
Mismagius got up from the ground, shaking his head and looking around, trying to find the culprit of the attack. - Who dares interrupt me! Show yourself, you bastard! - He shouted.
- Over here... - A voice said, everyone turning to face the source. We found ourselves looking at a small bipedial creature covered by a cloak. The banettes recognized it instantly.
- Boss! That's the pokemon we told you about! -One of them shouted, the figure turning to face them, both of the ghost-types visibly tensing up, trembling in fear.
- Oh... so you're the two pokemon that were following me, eh? - He chuckled. - Here I was wondering if you two desperately wanted to join me... But alas,just as I was going to seal your fate, you decided to leave. I was so disappointed... but nevertheless, I found exactly who I was looking for. - The figure said, looking at me, and now it was my turn to tremble in fear.
- Oh yeah? Well I'm sorry, but he owes us some money, so I'm afraid you're going to have to wait for your turn! You... you... - Mismagius began. He wasn't intimidated... yet.
The figure couldn't help but chuckle. - So you think your interests are more important than the interests of the dead? - The figure asked, everyone freezing in place.
- Wha... What did you just say? - The big ghost type questioned again, a little shocked at the figure's response. The cloaked figure took off his hood... and needless to say, the lower half of my beak touched the dirt as I saw Eric standing there.
- My name... Is Eric. Or should I say... was? - He questioned, looking at everyone. - I am pretty sure you all know who I was... correct? - He asked once more, almost everyone just as terrified as I was.
- Eric? The... the hero that... that saved the world and... died in the process?! - Mismagius screamed, now understanding the severity of the situation.
The riolu laughed. - Yes! In the flesh! - He exclaimed, then fell silent. - Well... actually, no flesh. Ghosts don't have any flesh, as you may have guessed. - He followed, giving everyone a wide, terrifying smile, sending shivers down my spine. It was at this point that everyone realized what was going on, and some were already backing away.
- You mean.. that... - Mismagius spoke up, stuttering with every word. Even though he was a ghost-type pokemon, actual pokemon ghosts were much different... and scary, than ghost-types.
- I am dead? Yes... you see, when I died, by body was trapped in another dimension, but my soul was dragged straight down to this hell's world... Where I have been waiting, suffering alone in a never ending sea of darkness where you can't feel, nor see, nor hear anything. There is NOTHING beyond true death... - He said, extending his arms and looking sky high. - And to be blunt... It gets kind of lonely over there, all alone... And I said: "Hey, wouldn't it be nice if there were some other pokemon here with whom to share this experience?" - He stepped forward. - So I came back in search of some companions... and the first pokemon I thought of was my good old friend Serge. At first I knew that him alone would be enough to satisfy my need for companionship... But thankfully, along with him I have found some other "friends" that I can drag down to my special hell! - He shouted, everyone either shaking or backing away, terrified.
I was also extremely scared. As far as I knew, Eric could've very well come back from the grave to haunt me... And I knew that his ghost was around, because I had seen it after he died! I was scared shitless at the moment, and Mismagius seemed to notice, my fear spreading to the rest of the pokemon in the clearing. - So... What do you say... - The ghostly riolu asked, his paws and eyes glowing. - Who wants to die first?! - He asked, showing his fangs.
The result of all of this was immediate, as everyone started running for their lives, screaming as Eric laughed like a maniac, throwing aura spheres everywhere. Even Mismagius started running away like a coward as I stayed where I was, covering my head with my wings, trembling as dozens of explosions went off around me. Eventually, the screaming stopped, and the ghost stopped throwing aura spheres, and I rose my head to look up... only to see Eric staring right at my eyes, his eyes going past mine and staring into my soul.
I shouted as I backed away from him. - Please don't take my soul! Don't eat me either! I don't taste very good! - He shouted, not really sure what to say anymore. What the ghost did would be forever burned into his memory. He laughed. Really hard.
- Eat you?! How is a ghost going to try and eat you if they don't have a body?! - He asked me, and I just laid there, dumbfounded. The "ghost" began making scary faces, sticking his tongue out and making fun of me.
- What... Who the hell are you? - I asked, really skeptical. The riolu pointed at himself, smiling.
- It's me! Eric! I'm alive! - He exclaimed. I just looked at him, distrusting of what he was saying. He smiled. - Alright, I guess you want some proof, don't you? - He asked me. I nodded in response, and he rose his right paw and showed me the emblem on the back of it. The moment I saw the drawing my heart skipped a beat. It couldn't be him, could it? I mean, he fell into an endless abyss in another dimension! My brain said no, but my heart wanted to say yes...
Lucy gagged and pointed at her mouth, everyone else bursting in laughter at the Pidgeot's last words, asides from Jake, who simply looked at the bird, amused. - What?! What are you laughing at?! - He asked, angrily munching on a gummy.
Whilst everyone was laughing, Jake facepalmed. - You do realize that what you just said sounds extremely romantic and ridiculous in this context, right? I mean, we know that you were a writer, but... We all think that this last phrase was a little too... "corny"? Is the term correct? - Jake asked the rest of the team members, who were still laughing.
Elly bobbed her head up and down and confirmed this. Serge just sighed. - Alright. Let me repeat that part then...
I still had my doubts, so I decided to test him. - What did I do before I joined your team? - He quickly asked.
- Pidgeot, the Daring Reporter! - He said the last part with a small hint of sarcasm.
- What is the name of our team, why did we choose it, and when?! - I asked, since I knew that all of those things were really private.
- The name of our team is Team Star, we came up with that because Elly and I noticed that we had the same drawing of a star on the back of our paws. We both have it on the back of our right paws, although her's is under the fur of her front right paw. We decided it whilst we were staying inside the guild whilst waiting until it stopped raining. We had just come back from visiting Skye's grave and saying our farewells... - I didn't let him say anything else. I got up and gave him the biggest hug I could muster with my wings.
- HOLY SHIT YOU'RE ALIVE! HOLY SHIT ERIC! - I couldn't help myself.
Eric shifted uncomfortably in his seat. - Yeah... you nearly chocked me to death. You were ecstatic! - The riolu commented, Serge smiling.
- Well I think anyone would've been ecstatic in my place. - He said, now sitting calmly on his chair, satisfied with what they had eaten. - Well, that's about the end of the story. After that, I told Eric everything that had happened briefly, we waited the whole night in an inn and then we left at the crack of dawn... And I think you all know what happened next. - The bird finished the story.
- That was a good story and all, but… just what did you have to do with those guys? - Elly asked, legitimately curious as to why Serge had been dealing with those kind of pokemon.
The bird didn't answer immediately, instead making as if he hadn't heard the question, but the eevee kept her glare on him, and he eventually gave up. - Back before I was a famous reporter I had a little bit of money shortage… So I asked them for money that I would return at a later date. To make sure I returned it however, I had to give them something precious in return so I had to come back later, and they chose it for me… However, turns out the gave me a lot more money than I could've ever wanted… And needless to say, I never earned enough to return it, not even in two years. - He explained.
Jake took this chance to press the bird. - If that's the case, then where did you spend all of that money? I mean, you should've returned it if it was too much, that way you could've avoided yourself all the trouble, couldn't you? - The sneasel theorized, the Pidgeot getting visibly anxious.
- Well.. I.. spent it on ink, paper… you know? All that stuff… - He explained, though for the ice type that sounded like a poor excuse. He was getting close to the bottom of the Pidgeot's odd behaviour in the last few months. He would've wanted it if he hadn't had to do so, but fearing that his extracurricular activities could eventually have a negative impact on the rest of the team, he had taken it upon himself to find out what was wrong.
Before he could ask again, however, Eric took the word. - And what did they take from you that was so valuable to risk your life? I mean, you knew those guys would most likely maim you or worse if you came back without their money, and you still did go back without the money. What did they take that was so valuable? - The riolu asked, both curious yet at the same time jumping in before Jake asked another dangerous question. His aura powers allowed him to sense just how much tension there was between those two.
Serge didn't know if he should answer that question. If he told them, they probably wouldn't get it.. but he couldn't just walk away without saying it, could he? - Well... It's a pearl. A blue pearl that someone gave me a long time ago… someone valuable to me. - He confessed, everyone's curiosity now peaking. However, he suddenly rose up, slamming his wings on the table. - Listen… I don't want to talk about this stuff, alright? It's… really personal. The months after your "death", when I left… I went to fix everything I still had to solve out there. Deals. Some debts, etcetera… I wanted to finish I had done in my life so I could begin anew here, with all you guys. Get a clean slate. - He confessed.
Everyone fell silent as he explained himself. - Look… I've done some stuff, ok? - He said, biting his tongue, Zed and Lucy's eyes widening as they remembered Reap's words way before the time freeze, back when Nymphe had attacked the town for the first time he had said something along those lines… - Stuff… That I'm not proud of. However, I've changed. I've worked really hard lately to wrap up everything I had and fix all the mistakes I had done in my… previous life. - He kept saying, Jake now watching the bird's movements closely.
He didn't like having to do this, watching his friends to see any patterns to suggest they were lying, but luckily he didn't see anything then. He was either being honest, or was really good at lying. He wanted to believe that the first scenario was the real one. - But... Please, I don't want to relieve bad memories, alright? Let's just drop it here, and maybe... someday, when I feel well enough about it I can tell you guys what I did that was so bad. - He finished, sitting back on his chair. Everyone agreed with this, since they were curious to know what Serge meant by huge mistake, but didn't want to pressure him unnecessarily.
- Of course. We don't want to force you. Tell us whenever you feel like it, or don't. We can understand if you don't want to share it with us. - Zed said, speaking for everyone else. They all had some story they didn't want to speak about with anyone or some particular pokemon, such as Lucy, who had only shared her story with Elly and the zorua besides her. After that, the dark-type got down from his chair. - Well... If you'll excuse us, I think we're going to be in our room sleeping. We're exhausted from the mission. - He said, then turned to face Eric and Elly. - Fantastic meal, by they way! - He complimented the chefs.
Lucy jumped down besides him. - Yeah! I'm stuffed! - She agreed with him, then nudged him playfully. - Race you to bed! - She exclaimed, and before Zed could answer, the door to their room open and closed as Lucy went inside. She had gotten a LOT faster after training, and sure, she could go at a normal speed, like when they all ran together... or she could go at that absurd speed, which left Zed standing alone.
Hey, wait! - He called for her as he rushed to their room. - Don't make me run, please! - He shouted as he went into their room and closed the door, giggles coming from behind the walls. After a few minutes, they were inaudible, leaving the other four pokemon sitting on their chairs.
Serge was the next to leave the table, walking towards the entrance. - I think I'm gonna go fly for a bit... Get this whole meal digested... That is if I can even take off! - He looked at the two pokemon that had cooked that day and waved goodbye. - Later! - He exclaimed as he opened the door and left. Through the window they saw him walking away from the house, then spreading his wings and taking off with ease. Jake sighed in disappointment. On one hand, he had hoped he would finally catch the bird and figure out exactly what troubled him, but... On the other hand, just as Elly had pointed out, he should respect his privacy...
He remembered Electro's words back when he was helping at the construction site. Maybe he did worry too much? - Well... Today was an excellent meal. I thank you both. - He told the duo, who nodded in silence, probably having a psychic conversation. - Now... I need to find something to relax... - He muttered to himself, although Elly must've heard him, because her ears immediately perked up. - Hey! How about we play some chess! I want some revenge for last time! - She exclaimed.
Jake considered the offer. To play a game that was an accurate description of his job, and in the which he had beaten time and time again everyone in that house? Now, he didn't like to boast, but... He could not put down the offer to boost his self-esteem and improve his mood whilst at the same time beating Elly at chess. However, he decided to tease her a little. - Revenge? I mean... If you wish to... But I must warn you that you're picking fights with the wrong rival. - He warned her, a sly smirk on his face. He waited exactly two seconds...
- Are you challenging me? - She asked, getting down from her chair.
"Bingo" The sneasel thought. - Maybe I am... It is up to you to interpret my words as either a challenge... or an insult. Whichever you prefer. - He simply said, looking as calm as possible.
Elly crouched down. - Oh it's ON! - She exclaimed, rushing to their room to fetch the chessboard and the pieces, all whilst Eric called her name, at first with concern, then annoyance. As soon as she returned, the checkered board and the small chess with the pieces, looking really happy.
- Elly! - The riolu called her again, the eevee looking at him, confused. He pointed at the table, specifically at the huge mess on it, and then at the kitchen counter.
- Oooooh... Yeah, about that... Listen sweetie... Can you please, um... Clean it up for me? - She asked him. His frown grew. - Please? - She asked again, his frown growing more. - Pretty please? - She asked a third time. He rolled his eyes as she put on her pleading face, smiling.
- Alright alright, I'll do it. - He finally said, the eevee cheering and thanking him before going over to the fire place, putting the board and the pieces down and opening the box. - But I better get that reward tonight! - He exclaimed all of a sudden, the eevee blushing madly. However, she got an idea as to how to turn it around on him, and she slowly sneak up on him, getting on her hind legs and leaning on his shoulder.
- Don't worry... Just for this tonight I'll give you the super-deluxe treatment... - She said, winking at him seductively. He couldn't help but look at her from the corner of his eye, holding three plates in his paws.
- And may I ask... Just what does this super-deluxe treatment contain? - He asked, following the joke. She gave him a seductive smile and inched closer to him, whispering to his ear. His blush grew more and more as she kept whispering, too low for Jake to hear, but he could imagine what the couple was talking about. Eric shouted in surprise and almost dropped the plates, hurrying over the to the kitchen top and leaving them there, sitting on the floor with his back against the cupboards, his legs crossed. - Arceus Elly! - He simply exclaimed, the eevee giggling.
- Oh... and there's more to come, be sure of it... And besides, knowing you you'll probably have this done in half an hour, won't you, sweetheart? - She asked seductively, winking at him. He blushed again, his legs crossing even more tightly and nodding enthusiastically. The eevee giggled and turned around, walking away whilst also shaking her rear more than usual, Jake watching the whole scene, amused. Eric sat there for a good five minutes until he snapped out of his thoughts and got to work. Meanwhile, Elly prepared the game for her and Jake, all whilst humming to herself.
- You know, I don't think persuading a male to do whatever you want with sexual innuendos is exactly the "cleanest" way to do it. - He said, hoping Elly caught on to his own joke. She caught it... and it's other meaning too, blushing madly as she guessed he had assumed what her and Eric had been whispering about.
- Well... To be honest... - She inched closer to Jake. - I was going to give him a reward tonight anyways... He's been a real sweetheart today... - She admitted, retreating to her cushion as she laid out all the pieces on the board.
Jake couldn't help but chuckled, crossing his arms and laying back on the cushion under him. - Clever... Very clever... Seems like you've improved since last time... - He commented, the eevee giggling as she placed the last pawns.
What can I say? - She asked, looking at Jake. He could see fire in her eyes. - You might be surprised. - She muttered, smiling. Jake couldn't help but smile back.
- Oh, I certainly hoped so... - He responded. Meanwhile, Eric took a few moments to look at the duo, gulping down. There was certainly going to be a lot of screaming that afternoon...
- Rook to B2. - Jake calmly announced, moving said piece to that spot. - Check. - He followed. He still had quite a handful of pieces on the board. He had two pawns left, a bishop, a rook and, obviously, his king. Elly, however, wasn't doing so good, since she only had a pawn, a knight and her king left. She groaned in annoyance as she moved her king away from the rook's range.
- King to C3 – She said as she moved the valuable piece with her psychic powers. Eric watched all of this unfold with a smile on his face, all whilst reading a book. It was about a mysterious murderer that was on the loose in a small village, and the terrified townsfolk had to find out who it was before it took them all out one by one... It was actually a really fun book, and he had his theories on who it could be. However, Jake had said something about "It's always the butler" or something amongst those lines a few days ago, and Elly had gotten really angry, so Eric hoped the sneasel hadn't spoiled the book's ending to him...
Jake smiled as he moved his bishop to align itself with Elly's king. - Bishop to E5. Check. - He repeated, much to Elly's annoyance.
- King to C4! - She exclaimed, really angry. A smile appeared on Jake's face as she moved that piece for the last time, swiftly grabbing the rook and placing it on the C2 square.
Rook to C2. Checkmate. - He announced proudly, Elly screaming in anger as she threw the rook away, extremely angry. - I do believe that is five games in a row. Five games in a row that you have lost Elly. - He said, feeling really cocky.
- Oh shut up! - She retorted pouting and throwing herself onto one of the bigger cushions. - F... - She swore into the wool filled pillow, slamming her paws against it, acting like a cub, all whilst Jake watched with a smile on his face. Eric looked at him.
- Dude, of course she gets angry with that huge shit-eating grin on your face. You actually look kind of terrifying. - He told the sneasel, whose smile got smaller, although it didn't vanish.
- Do you wish you fight me? Try to defend your mate's honour! - He exclaimed, teasing the riolu.
Eric wasn't about to fall for that however, instead laying back on the cushion and raising the book higher so Jake couldn't see his face. - Nah, I'll pass. I'm in a good mood right now, and I don't want my day to be ruined. Thank you and goodbye. - The riolu said, pushing away the sneasel's offer. He really didn't want to face Jake right now, as he was being honest about not wanting to have his day ruined.
Jake guessed that he wasn't going to play anymore chess that day, so he started picking up the pieces one by one, spending a good ten minutes looking around for the rook Elly had violently thrown. Thankfully, it was still intact, as he found lying at the other side of the house. Elly stopped complaining and laid on the cushion, lying on her belly and looking at Jake with slight jealously, Eric completely focused on reading now. He had improved his reading skills, and could read much faster than before, but he was nowhere close to Elly's level.
It was then when they heard knocking on the door, all three of the pokemon sitting around turned to face the door. The eevee groaned as she got up on her paws. - I'll go… It's probably Serge. - She muttered, walking over to the door and opening it with her psychic powers. To her shock, however, it wasn't the Pidgeot standing at the other side of the entrance, but rather a familiar duo. A meowth and a chimchar. - Oh my gosh! Mick! Milly! - She exclaimed, Jake and Eric now getting up as well and looking at the entrance.
- Heya! How are you doing? - The chimchar greeted whilst Elly and her hugged.
Eric walked over to them. - Mick! What a surprise! - He greeted as he hugged the meowth, surprised to see him there. - You should've told us you were coming over! When did you get here? - The riolu asked, Elly returning to his side. Mick and Milly looked at eachother, confused.
- We… did? We sent you guys a letter this morning to say we were coming over this afternoon. Didn't you receive it? - The meowth asked. The eevee rose an eyebrow and shook her head, but Eric bit his lip as he remembered that letter that morning that was addressed to him and Elly.
- Well… I saw a letter addressed to us this morning… but I forgot to read it. - He excused himself, rubbing the back of his head. - We were out almost all morning, so we didn't have a chance to read it. Sorry. - He apologized. Milly giggled.
- Don't worry. What's done is done! - She said. - But anyways… can we come in and chat? It's been ages! - The chimchar followed. Elly nodded as she stepped out of the way and lead them in, the other three pokemon following her as Eric closed the door. - Wow… nice house. Pretty small for six pokemon, don't you think? - Milly asked.
The eevee lead them to the small fireplace and they all sat down over there, Jake still picking up all the chess pieces. - Greetings. I believe you are MIck and Milly, correct? - He asked, both of the guests looking at him as he bowed down. - Eric and Elly talk about you a lot. - He followed, both of the pokemon bowing down as well in response to Jake's formal manners.
- You must be Jake, right? They've also talked a lot about you. - Mick greeted, a smile on his face. Milly greeted him as well, but her eyes her now focused on the chessboard underneath his arm. She pointed at it.
- Is that by any chance a chessboard? - She asked, the ice-type looking down at it and nodding. Before Milly could ask if they could play, Elly jumped into the conversation, chuckling.
- Trust me, Milly. You do NOT want to play against him. He cheats. - She almost spat out, still really angry with him. Jake, however, didn't take offence in Elly's lie, and instead chuckled.
- She is angry because she has lost to me five times in a row to me. We have been playing chess all afternoon, and not once has she come close to winning. - He told the chimchar, who covered her mouth and giggled as Elly blew up.
- Oi! - She shouted, blushing. - I got close to beating you the fifth time! - She followed, standing on her paws.
- No you did not. All went according to my plans. I merely used a strategy that would put both of us in a dangerous position, but it was never truly dangerous for me, I just made it look like it so you didn't feel as bad when I defeated you for a fifth time. - He calmly explained. Elly groaned in annoyance, tempted to just spout a flurry of insults at Jake. Not only was he being EXTREMELY cocky, but also teasing her all the time. Eric noticed that the ambiance was getting really heated, so he decided to propose something.
- Hey… How about I make some tea? You must be thirsty from walking all the way from Voltaire. - He pointed out. Mick and Milly looked at eachother briefly before bursting into laughter simultaneously. - What?! - Eric asked, confused.
- You really should've read that letter man… We finished moving here today! We actually live a couple houses down the road, so you guys can come visit us anytime you want! - Mick announced, clearly happy to tell this to their friends.
- Really? I thought you had decided not to move after... - He bit his lip as he almost said that, Elly glaring at him, her eyes telling him to shut up. The room suddenly fell into silence as Mick and Milly's faces went grim, Jake looking at the other four pokemon with confusion, since he didn't know what they were talking about. The riolu decided to break the silence by clapping his paws. - Well... I think I'm going to prepare that cup of tea... - He said, walking over to the kitchen top to prepare the hot drink.
Meanwhile, Mick and Milly just smiled it off and sat down, chatting briefly with Jake and Elly. The sneasel didn't really know the duo too much outside from what Eric and Elly had said before, one these being Milly's... accident. He didn't know much, other than it had affected her a lot and that it had to do with the time freeze. He was curious, but seeing just how tense everything had gotten when Eric was about to say something persuaded him to not do so. However, he couldn't avoid seeing Milly glancing both at him and the chess game besides him, and he was getting a slight sensation that she really wanted to battle him.
- Well... And how have you two been? We haven't about you two after he came back, so we were hoping to learn how things were coming up. - The meowth said, expressing his interest in knowing how their life was.
-Oh... it's been pretty normal so far. Me and Eric took a down from rescuing for a couple months... and things have been really peaceful lately. In all honesty, I'm happy that things are like this. - The eevee said, a smile on her face. However, her words made the riolu frown. He grabbed the tea pot carefully and poured some of the tea inside of the "glasses" they had, which were basically glasses but made out of stone. If she was really enjoying all this down time... then did that mean that she wasn't feeling like returning to action? She had told him something like that that morning... had she been lying to him back then?
- However... Me and Eric were discussing it this morning, and we think it's about time we get back into the swing of things, both for our sakes and our friends', since they've been doing double the work lately. - The eevee followed, her mate's face suddenly beaming as he heard those words. He picked up the cups and carefully carried the steaming hot tea over to the other four pokemon, handing it out to Milly and Mick, leaving Jake's cup in front of him so it cooled and Elly grabbed her's with her psychic powers, much to Mick and Milly's surprise. They both relaxed quickly however. "Thank you, Honey..." She said in his mind, the riolu appreciating the thanks.
- Wow... I forgot that you had psychic powers now Elly... - Milly said, bringing the tea up to her mouth and taking a sip. - Hmm... Pecha Berry? - She asked the riolu, who nodded.
- It's her favourite. We've got some Oran Berry tea too, and Apple flavoured... and also mint I think, Jake's favourite. - The riolu said, pointing at the sneasel who was carefully grabbing the tea in his hands, which were ice cold at the moment, blowing at the liquid, eyeing the riolu and nodding.
- Oh it's certainly a favourite over here too... - Milly mused as she took another sip, enjoying the flavour in her mouth. - But anyways, back to topic... What did you mean by having to do double the work? - The chimchar asked Elly as Eric and Mick entered a small conversation concerning the progress in repairing the damages done to the town, a conversation which Jake joined soon.
- Well... When we made the team almost a year ago, we called ourselves Team Star... but that's the whole team all together. Inside of the team we've got what we've decided to call "Sub-teams". We've got three sub-teams: Pokepals, which is composed by Eric and me. - Elly explained, the riolu glancing at the eevee as he heard his name being mentioned. The eevee shook her head with a smile and he smiled back, returning to his conversation. Elly saw Milly's amused look, and the eevee rolled her eyes. - Yeah, yeah, yeah... we kept Pokepals. Say whatever you want. It grew up on me, alright? - The eevee pouted, Milly giggling. - Well... asides from that, we have Team Shadowbolt, whose members are Zed and Lucy... You remember them, right? -
- Of course I do! The little cute black fox and the shinx? - Milly asked, not really sure what species Zed was. The eevee giggled at that description of Zed.
- Yeah. That cute black fox is called a zorua. - The eevee explained, Milly nodding, repeating that Zed was a cutie, Elly giggling softly as she said this. - Well, I don't think it's a good idea for you to say that. If his mate heard you she'd have your head. - Elly commented, moving her head towards the entrance to the duo's room.
- His mate is the shinx? - Milly guessed, and Elly nodded in response. The chimchar fell silent for a few seconds before giggling. - Well they sound like a really cute couple! - She concluded, Elly laughing out loud, finding it funny how the fire-type defined both of them as cute, when Lucy had quite the temper.
- Well... Anyways yeah, that's both of them, and the last team, which doesn't have a name, is formed by Jake and Serge. - The eevee concluded, Milly looking at the sneasel. - Serge? The name rings a bell... But anyways, so Jake here is part of your team too? - She asked.
The eevee shrugged. - Well duh, he lives with us. - The normal-type pointed out, Milly facepalming as she realized just how dumb of that question that was, Elly bursting out in laughter. The three males had stopped talking and were now looking at the females, who were laughing hysterically. Eventually, they calmed down again and the conversation resumed.
Eric leaned close to Elly. - Hey Elly, what do you think of the new policy referring to umbreons? - The riolu asked, Elly's ears falling down to the sides of her head, really sad, but her eyes flared up immediately afterwards.
- It's horrible! It's borderline racist! How can something like that be approved by the capital? My father isn't going to come back from the dead, so why are they detaining all umbreons in the region and interrogating them?! - She exclaimed, really angry.
The rest of the pokemon nodded with her, agreeing. - Yes. It's extremely unnecessary, and only denotes just how horrible this government is... I hope they change it shortly. - Mick muttered, his arms crossed. Jake sat on his cushion, rubbing his chin.
- I do not agree with the way this "policy" is being carried out, because, in all honesty, it sounds like an extreme measure and borderline xenophobic. However, Blake did fake his death twice, so, although I don't like how they're doing it, I can't completely disagree with it. - The sneasel responded. Eric was about to respond but bit his tongue. Jake was right there, Blake did come back from the dead more than once, but... still, it didn't justify what was being done. Elly's anger only increased when the ice-type said this.
- Are you serious, Jake?! He disintegrated in front of our eyes. He turned to dust and was trapped in a completely different dimension! How do you want him to revive?! - She shouted at the top of her lungs, the sneasel sitting there, unfazed by the eevee screaming at her. - And besides, if he was back, then we'd take care of him again. We wouldn't let him get away with all of that for so long... not again. - Elly finished, sitting back down, covering her face with her paws. Talking about all of that... it brought back too many memories and got her really emotional.
The riolu crawled up to her and gave her a hug, the rest of their friends looking away, ashamed that they had brought up said topic in front of her. Milly sighed and looked at Jake. - Say Jake... Do you want to have a match? - She asked, pointing at the chessboard besides him. He looked at it and nodded, accepting her challenge. Mick steeped in however.
- I don't think that's a good idea... She's... ummm... really good at chess. And I mean... REALLY GOOD. - He added. The riolu hugging the eevee looked at his friend.
- And Jake's almost god-like at it, so she's going to be entertained. - He said, then looked back at Elly, whose eyes were closed, holding back tears. - How about we drop politics and talk about something else? - He asked her, the eevee opening her beautiful sky blue eyes and nodding, the riolu smiling as he nuzzled her nose affectionately. Jake and Milly moved away from the group and went over to the table, sitting and organizing the board.
- Black or white? - Jake asked in an almost monotonous tone of voice.
- Whites. - She said, Jake looking at her confused. Black always moved first, but she simply smiled. - I know blacks move first in your rules... but where I come from, whites move first. - She said, the sneasel sighing, deciding to play by her "rules", since she had proposed playing. The game began with Milly moving a pawn. The first couple of moves the duo didn't say anything, focusing on the game and preparing their strategies. Milly looked at Jake, breaking the silence. - Light against Darkness... Aura Knights against the Dark Eons... That is the origin of this game, is it not? - The chimchar asked Jake, who nodded as he moved his bishop.
- Yes. Although some say that this game predated written history, the first known tactical use of chess was during the first great war between the Aura Knights and Dark Eons. The Aura Knights were the first to use to plan out their strategies and predict how the flow of battle could go. The Dark Eons caught on as they pillaged and attacked the Knight's villages. It is tradition for black to go first, symbolizing that the Dark Eons were the ones that started the war. The one who starts a game of chess by proposing to play is the one that picks blacks to symbolize this. - He said, as he watched Milly eat one of his pawns with a rook, and then he immediately moved in with the bishop and removed that piece from play. - It is also said that turning down the offer to play a game of chess is considered an honour, as one if trying to avoid confrontation with the dark enemy and instead trying to find a better way to solve the conflict. - He followed.
Milly smiled back as she moved one of her knights to take care of yet another pawn, threatening Jake's bishop. - Where I come from, it is quite the opposite... Whites start to symbolize the eternal struggle of light and darkness, and how light must always prevail over darkness. Also, turning down a game of chess is considered an offence to the honour of the challenger, since it is interpreted as the challenged not considering the challenger to be up to their level of strategy and intelligence and degrading them... or can also be considered as a coward's move, since said pokemon knows they will lose against this for, their pride gets the best of them... -
- And they end up playing and losing. - Jake concluded as he guessed the end, retreating from his position and returning his bishop to his part of the board. - Interesting strategy, trying to win the game before it even begins... And may I ask where you come from? - Jake asked, not realizing that he had just fallen into Milly's trap.
The chimchar smiled. - I come from Johto, the region where it is said that the Aura Knights originated. I come from an... interesting family. But I've left all of that behind, too many back memories. - She said, explaining her origins, but still remaining mysterious. - And what about you, where do you come from? - She asked, the sneasel realizing what she was doing, smiling.
- Clever... You use my politeness against myself. You told me all of this to get me to ask you about your origins... and now you ask me mine, and knowing that if I were to not answer truthfully, I would be considered a horrible contestant and conversation partner. - He said, the chimchar shrugging. Jake smiled back. - Well... I come from this region, but not from this time. I was born during the Time Freeze. - The ice-type confessed, Milly's curiosity now peaking.
- The Time Freeze... Everyone talks about it nowadays... - She said, lifting a knight and keeping it in the air, spinning her hand around, making circles with the piece. - Murder. Rape. Cannibalism. I hear a lot of horrible things about it all the time , everyone saying that it is the most horrible event in our recent history. - She put down her knight. - In all honesty, I'm grateful to have been frozen myself so I didn't go through that. - She confessed, then looked at Jake, raising an eyebrow. - And how was it then? Was it as horrible as pokemon say? - She asked, Jake remaining silent for a few seconds, then nodding.
- They were dark times, that is true. They were times when... Only strength prevailed. The strongest survived and thrived. Those who left their emotions... themselves, behind, and became primals managed to pull through... And the rest, the weak... those who refused to lose themselves into despair were devoured alive. - He explained, putting down his own knight with force, that chess piece making a loud noise as it hit the checkered board.
- Is that so? Well... may I ask something else then? - She politely asked him, the sneasel nodding, already planing his next set of questions. - How did you manage to survive. I mean... You look weak physically, in my opinion. Thin, small... Not the best physical shape in the which to survive such a world. - She pointed out.
Jake nodded. - That is true... I do not appear to be strong... And I knew this from birth. Since I was a cub, I was always than the average sneasel, and growing up only helped so much... My parents even considered leaving me in the middle of the forest at the young age of one... But what they didn't know at that time, was that I could perfectly understand their words and knew their meaning. - He said, the pointed at his head. - In a world where strength was the only way to survive... I chose intelligence, something many had pushed away in favour of simple brutality. I took my disadvantage... and turned it into an advantage, leading my foes in expertly crafted traps by using my own weak appearance as a bait. I was considered an easy meal by many... just before their lives were ended by a deadly row of spikes, or a log crushing their heads. - He concluded, slamming his queen on top of Milly's last bishop.
The chimchar looked at him. His body temperature had increased a lot. He was feeling really passionate about talking about this. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Zed and Lucy walking out of their room, greeting everyone, including her, and joining Eric, Elly and Mick in their conversation. However, the monkey was very interested in hearing the rest of Jake's story. - I see... So you have killed before, haven't you? - Milly questioned, the sneasel nodding. Milly fell silent, closing her eyes as she decided on her next move.
- Unfortunately, I was forced to do so... But I was quickly taken in by Dusknoir and... after that, I believe everyone knows the story. - He said, Milly nodding. - My turn to ask now... I have heard that you have some special powers. You can see when one lies or gets angry... How? - He asked. The chimchar smiled, laying back on the chair.
- Well... now that's an interesting story... You see, since I was small, when I closed my eyes I could feel the warmth emanating from other's bodies. When a pokemon lies, or is acting strangely, their body temperature increases in varying degrees, whether they're good at lying or not. However, no matter which of the cases, their temperature increases... and I can sense it. - She gently knocked over Jake's last rook. - I cannot guess the truth... but I know when you're lying or not. - She said.
Jake looked at her. - Interesting... Although to me it sounds more like a curse, rather than a blessing. - Those words made Milly shift uncomfortably, and her face got visibly angrier.
- Think of it as you like... I think of it as a gift from our lord... But anyways, there's really nothing more to my "powers"... - She said, looking at the board in front of her. There were more black pieces than whites. - Well well well... Seems that you might win this battle. - She pointed out. He smiled, but shook his head.
- You have been doing well so far, but... I'm afraid I have to correct you... - Jake moved his queen down to her side, catching her king off guard as he was hiding behind two pawns. It was impossible for her to move either left or right, as Jake had caught those sides with his queen, and up and up to the right were blocked by her own pawns. - Check... - Jake sung, Milly blindly moving her king up and to the left... only to be eaten by Jake's bishop. - ...mate. - He concluded, Milly looking up at him, a serious look on her face at first, but then began laughing.
- Very good! You're an excellent strategist! No wonder Eric and Elly allowed you to join their team... As far as I know, they only let the best of the best in... - The monkey pointed out, clapping to congratulate Jake. He bowed, thanking her for playing a game with him.
- Thank you. You were an admirable adversary, Milly, but I'm afraid not even at your best you could come close to defeat me. - He said. Suddenly, she smiled.
- Who said I was playing serious? - She asked him, the sneasel looking over to her. - You see... there is a strategy... where one loses on purpose so they obtain more information about their enemy. So far, we've been asking eachother questions... and now I know you better than before, so, in the end... it seems that I have also won something. - She explained, Jake smiling as he realized what she had been aiming to do all this time. - But... seeing as you won the game, I'll let you ask me one question. - She said.
The sneasel thought about it briefly, then remembered their previous conversation. - Earlier, when you were talking with Eric and Elly, Eric mentioned something about not moving to Treasure Town after something that had happened... Do you mind telling me what it was? - Jake politely asked her. Milly visibly shifted, feeling really uncomfortable on the chair. However, a promise was a promise...
(Memory - Undertale)
- Last year... I was due to... lay an egg. - She began, Jake's interest peaking, yet at the same time knowing that this wasn't going to be an enjoyable experience. - A lot of things happened after that... Eric was forced to run away, and Mick and me decided to go over to Voltaire and grab our things to move to Treasure Town. We wanted to be close to our friend, Elly, and... Voltaire isn't really the best place for someone to grow up. That town has a lot of history, and many treasure hunters come there to seek for Sky Temple. Some are nice... some aren't. - She continued, shrugging since this was really common.
- But... a few days before we left... The town was attacked by one of Team Uncario's members. Procella. - She looked at Jake in the eyes. - She attacked with some sort of monsters in tow, killing hundreds... And then she marched towards the peak of the mountain. I stayed home, since... I didn't want to risk losing the baby, an earthquake began and... something fell on my head and I lost consciousness. I woke up after the Time Freeze, after Mick found me in the ruins of our home. We were glad that I was ok... But I began worrying about the baby, wondering if the Time Freeze could've done something. Everything seemed fine... and I ended up laying the egg just fine. - She said with a warm smile.
Jake relaxed, guessing that the story would get better. - And we waited... - She said. - And waited... - She continued. - And... waited... - Jake's smile disappeared, Milly's eyes tearing up. - Six long months of waiting... Every morning I woke up, and placed my hand on the egg, trying to feel my baby inside... But, even with my powers, I couldn't find that warmth... that pleasant, filling warmth of life... - Tears began falling down her face. - Not once did it shake. And the shell never cracked, not even when we buried it... - She said between sobs, Jake looking at her with worry.
- All our hopes... our expectations... our dreams of... starting a family... - She looked up at Jake, her eyes filled with pain and tears of sadness. - Puf. Gone. - She moved her hands, her arms falling down to her sides. - We had bought a small crib, and when we moved here, we chose a house with two rooms... one for him and me... and the other for them. We never even knew if it was a male or a female... And we had tons of names for them too... - She buried her face in her hands, sobbing quietly. Thankfully, the other pokemon in the room were too focused on their conversation to notice them quietly speaking about Milly's... unborn child, the chimchar sniffing. - We don't know why it happened, but... Luckily, it isn't something related to neither Mick or me, so... We can always... try again, but... I don't know if I will ever be able to do it now... - She stopped talking, not wanting to talk anymore.
Jake had never shown his emotions too much. He had always been taught to repress them... But he had emotions. And he was having a hard time trying to not cry. - I... I should've asked. I'm sorry, if... I... brought back bad memories. - He apologized, looking at his legs, sad and ashamed he had pushed Milly to the point of crying. He could see her outline against the window, the setting sun shining through her tears, small sparkles of light flashing briefly in the room.
However, she shook her head. - No... It's ok... You were just curious, you couldn't have known... - She tehn rose her head, sniffing. - And I have to keep staying strong... Because I took it hard... - She glanced at Mick, who was laughing happily with their friends. - But he had it harder. We both wanted to have that child, and... when it happened, it destroyed him. - Jake looked over at Mick, who quickly glanced at them, smiling and waving. Milly returned the wave and Mick rejoined the conversation. - I knew then that... If I stayed like this... all broken and racked with grief... Neither of us would move on, so... I had to get strong... And I took it upon myself to help both of us... - She said. - It gets really hard sometimes... and the option to give up is there, but... I keep going, knowing that, one day, maybe... I'll have another chance at happiness. - She concluded.
Jake jumped up from his seat as he felt something warm touch his cheek. He moved his claw up. There... there was something wet on his face... No... He was crying. It had startled him, since he didn't cry too often. - I hope so, too. - He responded, giving the chimchar a warm, supporting smile. She accepted as she smiled herself, wiping away the last few tears. The duo got up, Jake staying behind to pick up the chess pieces. Milly walked over to Mick, who greeted her... and she fell into his arms, hugging him tightly. Everyone looked at her, confused, and the meowth was taken aback by this sudden show of affection... but he couldn't complain. He hugged her back, the image warming the heart of the other pokemon.
Eric also pulled Elly into a small hug, and Zed slowly pushed the reluctant shinx towards him, giving her a hug. She didn't like to be hugged like that in public. Jake looked at the scene in front of him. For the first time in his life he felt a new emotion. Envy. But it wasn't bad, it was just that... seeing all of them like that, with someone in their lives with whom to share those moments... He wished that he could have someone like that someday. He looked out the window and at the sun, remembering the words Milly had just said. - I hope I get a chance at happiness too... - He told himself, wishing with all his heart these words would come true.
(Stop the music)
Eric stared at the burning wood in the fireplace. It was almost midnight now. A few hours ago, when Serge came back, they all decided to go out and eat dinner, to celebrate Mick and Milly moving to Treasure Town. They all talked about the past, they laughed... it was a blast. The house was quiet now, and the only ones who were still up were him, Elly and Zed. He was just looking at the fire, a glass of water besides him, whilst Elly and Zed were reading different books. The eevee to his right yawned, closing the book with her powers and putting it on the ground besides her pillow. - Well... I think I'm going to go bed now... - She said, approaching the riolu. - Can we please leave your prize for tomorrow? I'm really tired... - She pleaded him. She was saying the truth, and Eric could tell.
He gave her a smile and nodded. - Sure. I'll be there in just a while, alright sweetheart? - He told her, the eevee nodding. She gave him a kiss on the cheek and left for their room, Eric returning to stare at the fire, hearing the door to their room open and then close. Eric sighed as he heard this, returning to his thoughts. Him and Elly had agreed that tomorrow was to be the day they returned to action, but... he still had his doubts about Elly's willingness, and feared that he was forcing her to do something she didn't want to do... at least for the moment.
- You feeling alright man? You don't look so hot. - Zed asked him as he heard him sigh, getting up from his spot and walking over to Eric. He shook his head.
- Nah, I'm not feeling too well... - Eric muttered, being honest with the zorua, as he was his best friend. - Hey... can I ask you something? Be honest too. - He asked the dark type, who nodded. - Lately, all of you have been working triple whilst me and Elly have been slacking off. You always say that you're doing fine, but... I always get the feeling you're not being honest. Tell me. Have you all been feeling ok lately, or are you constantly tired? - Eric asked his friend.
He sat down, sighing. - Well... If I have to be honest... Yeah, lately we've all been feeling pretty tired. I can handle it just fine... - Zed said, Eric smiling. - But Lucy... Lately she's been pushing herself way too hard. She thinks that she has to give it her all she's got all the time... But I'm afraid that she's going to crack under the pressure, you know what I mean? - Zed asked, with Eric knowing in response. Lucy had always been like that, trying to do everything perfect the first time around. She wanted to do the best job she could, trying to please everyone... But they all knew that she was being too demanding with herself. - I've told her time and time again that she doesn't have to do that, that this isn't some contest or a life or death situation... but she doesn't answer me directly, or tries to change the topic... - The zorua laid down on the ground, depressed. - I feel like... I'm failing her or something, like... failing as a mate. I know there's something wrong with her, but I just can't seem to find out, and I don't want to force her... Do you know what I mean? - He asked the riolu, who couldn't help but chuckle and move his head from side to side.
- Boy... do I know how you feel... Elly's sometimes like that too . She tells you the truth, but she doesn't tell you one-hundred percent. And it's infuriating, because at first you think that maybe she just doesn't trust you enough... but then you ask yourself if it's your fault because you're not being good enough for her, am I right? - The riolu asked, Zed nodding enthusiastically. - Well.. Don't worry. These things take time, they are completely normal... at least I think so... - He said, Zed raising an eyebrow. - But still... Just give her some time, keep supporting her and eventually she'll open up. At least that's how it goes with Elly, which I can understand, considering all she's gone through... - He pondered to himself. Zed nodded. He knew what Lucy had suffered in her infancy, and could guess why she was like this all the time. He put his faith in his friend's words, and decided that he would keep supporting her and be with her... through the good and the bad times.
- But anyways... Yeah, me and Elly are going to go to the guild tomorrow morning and figure out why Chatot wants to talk with us so badly. And after that... we'll go back into action, and hopefully you'll all have less things to worry about. - He winked at his friend, smiling. Zed smiled back, the two pokemon bumping their clenched paws.
- Alright, can't wait to see you two back into the fray... - The zorua yawned as he spoke, getting up from his spot and looking out the window. - Man... It's really late. - He said, Eric also looking out the window.
- Yeah, I better go to sleep now if I don't want to feel like trash tomorrow morning. - The fighting-type said, getting up from his pillow and walking over to the kitchen, picking up a bucket of water and throwing it onto the fireplace, extinguishing the fire and making everything go dark all of a sudden. Since him and Zed could see in the dark, there wasn't any problem with that. After checking all the windows were closed, the duo said goodnight to eachother and walked into their respective bedrooms. Eric carefully shut the door behind him, Elly shifting around and looking at him in the dark.
He slowly walked over to her and laid down on the bed, laying on his left side as he looked at Elly. They stared at eachother in silence. - Well... are you ready for tomorrow? - He asked her.
She nodded. - I can hardly wait. - She answered, nuzzling him tenderly. - We better get to sleep now if we want to be able to stand up next morning. - She said, the riolu chuckling in response, agreeing with her.
- Alright then, goodnight sweetie... - He said, kissing her forehead and going to sleep, wrapping his right arm around his love's waist.
- Goodnight honey... - She responded, kissing his forehead as well and closing her eyes, crawling up to him, feeling his heart beating next to her head, his breathing... She felt safe... she felt... at home, where she belonged... with him. With these thoughts, the eevee allowed her to relax, and eventually fell asleep in the embrace of the one she loved so dearly.
A quadruped shadow crept up to the sign. Under the moonlight, it read "Welcome to Treasure Town."
- Finally... At last I have found you... - The four legged figure said, looking at the town. - Team Star... -
Yaaaaayyyy! Someone's after the gang! And it only took me one chapter to introduce a new character! Are they a friend? Are they a foe? Nobody knows!11! (Well... actually, except me and one other guy... also, those ones between the exclamation marks are intended. It's a joke.
But anyways, I'm so glad to be back, guys, thank you all for reading the first actual special chapter in the series. Everything you've read here will either be mentioned in future chapters in the next part, or explained once again, so that's why this chapter isn't necessary to read in order to understand the fic's plot. Still, I thank you immensely for reading this special chapter. There's another one on the way, and after that, I'll (hopefully) be able to release more info on the next part! So yeah, thank you all again for reading, and I'll see you all soon!
