As walk into Mount Pyre, my footsteps echo behind me. Most of the trainers leave me alone seeming to sense what I came for. The few that challenge me, I swept with my Sceptile. While battling them, memories come into mind of former allies. No they weren't just allies they were friends.

I never regretted starting my journey. If I had never started I would never be where I am now. At the top. As the champion.

Fate is cruel but yet life goes on. The deaths further inspired me to defeat the Pokemon League: to honor the sacrifices they made. Though knew the risks they were willing to fight for me; to defend me at the even cost of their own lives. I couldn't have asked for better partners.

Yet a nagging doubt in my mind refuses to be silenced. What if I had been a better trainer? What if I treated them better? What if I was more careful? What I wasn't so stupid? Would they still be alive? Or would fate pick them off anyway?

I stop by a grave: the grave of the first Pokémon I've ever caught.

R.I.P

In memory of Zigzig- Aurora's Zigzagoon

Level 2-7

Your optimism and bravery shall be missed.

Never returning yet never forgotten.

I kneel down to place some incense at the foot of the grave. I light it. The scent of Oran berries brings bittersweet memories to mind...