Quest 001: Second Step

P~OwO~W

The sun had sunk behind the treeline almost an hour ago and the Piplup already felt like passing out and sleep for three days straight. There had still been not much left, they just needed to find the first landmark...

Poccha let out a yawn so loud that overwhelmed the nth comment on the Creation Trio, this time probably from Lizard. The discussion had been had been going on for at least half an hour! While theological debates would normally have been enough to revive him, all the tension, talks, walks and the Boss battle against Aparctias were taking a toll on his sleep-deprived mind and body. He was moving forward only on willpower alone, he wanted to either reach the first landmark or Hekla's dungeon, however going by his energy reserves it was more probable the former than the latter.

− Okay, this has gone on long enough! − Fang suddenly snapped her jaws, startling everyone... sans the Riolu (he had been probably warned beforepaw and hadn't jumped in a while), who was thus ready when she turned her attention to him. − Ash, if you please, can you get out your sleeping bag? We're gonna camp here and now! It's about time Team Purplewing catches their sleep. − she glared murder at the feathered duo, who stood straighter from their slouched stance in fear. Sempai was scary.

− But we're in the middle of the road! It's irresponsible; what if a big pokémon walks by at night and stomps on us? − Rush braved the Big Jaws Pokémon's ire.

− Then let's find a suitable place beside the road and camp there. − the Totodile amended, but the glare returned a second later in full force. − But no more complains!

− Yes, ma'm! − Team Purplewing saluted, making Poccha forget all about his purpose of stopping only at the first landmark.

− What about here, near this Miltank shaped rock? − Pikachu proposed from a few steps forward the group, patting said rock formation...

Miltank shaped... Uh. I can't even have any more objections now. The Piplup thought dazedly.

− Yes, it will do. There's even enough space for the sleeping bag. − Lizard agreed.

The camp was set with minimal fuss and the feathered pokémon were pushed to the fluffiest spot on the sleeping bag, where they curled up, leaning against each other. The comfort of the Fire Type internal heat was what pushed Poccha over the edge of sleep and in few seconds he was out like a light.

X~OwO~Y

Pikachu quietly whistled at the display: the two had nodded off faster than an Abra!

− I'm impressed that they both managed to resist for so long. − Lizard commented.

− Probably they were going on only carried by sheer stubbornness. Poccha's flute-like instrument was playing a slow but forced melody, while Rush's drum was still loud enough, but beat at a slower rhythm. − Ash sat down on the edge of the sleeping bag, watching the sleeping duo too.

− What do you mean with "flute-like"? − the Charmander asked quietly, a bit excited.

− Well, it sounds kinda like a flute, but it has a higher pitch. I dunno what it could be... − the Fighting Type trailed, slight frown forming on his muzzle, as if thinking about something.

− There's a world of instruments out of there, maybe as many as pokémon... or at least that's what I thought until the day before yesterday. − the conscious Fire Type amended mareepishly. − Anyway, if it's a wind instrument like a flute, but an octave higher... − he got lost in thoughts. − A clarinet? A traverse flute? Or maybe... Oh! A piccolo! − he listed, trying to suggest instruments.

− I'm not entirely sure, but maybe... − Ash hesitated, crossing his arms in a pensive motion, and Pikachu understood why, so he voiced his thoughts.

− You're thinking about Meloetta, right? When she taught us the orchestra pieces? − the Electric Type asked to keep Lizard and Fang (who had just came back from a pit-stop pause) in the loop. The latter perked, a bit confused and a bit curious.

− You mentioned her in the Mines dungeon too. Was she a musician? − the Totodile observed.

− More like a singer, but very good at imitating instruments too. She travelled with us for a bit and, during some of the walking parts, she taught us like we did with the Pokédex earlier. − the Riolu corrected, pleasing Pikachu. So he still had this bit. − She mimicked one, then we had to try and guess what it was. Now I'm trying to compare Poccha's to what she did...

− Got any match? Oh, by the way what are we? − the orange reptile asked hopeful. Now that the Mouse Pokémon thought about it, Ash hadn't told them who was what yet, apart from the Torchic.

− Well, now I'm certain that Rush's a "taiko" drum. − the trainer answered, relaxing his arms and dropping one onto his lap while the other gestured to each of them as he named them. − Pikachu's a violin. Fang's a piano and you're a cello; at first I thought you were a viola, but comparing the timbre, yours is deeper. Poccha's... Uhm. − he closed his eyes and the dreadlock-like appendices nearest to Team Purplewing raised slightly, vibrating stiffly. It looked like the ones of every Lucario they had met when they used Aura Sense. It never got old. − Oh, it's a piccolo! − Ash relaxed, opening the eyelids and smiling content.

− What about you? − Fang inquired curiously. − Can you read your own aura?

The trainer looked taken aback at the question, then frowned as if complaining to himself for not thinking about it. − I have no idea. I don't know if I'm able to and I bet that this question will keep haunting me until I'll get an answer. − he stated in horror.

− Don't worry Ash, I'm sure that even if you can't feel it, someone else will be able to tell you. − Pikachu reassured him and his best friend went back to smile.

− Yeah, thanks. − he whispered, but as he looked over Team Bitefire he knitted an eyeridge. − You guys should go to sleep too. Above all Fang and Pikachu, the fights were pretty hard on you. − the Electric Type was about to protest when a severe expression on his trainer's muzzle stopped him. − I can still see the bruise of the stomp; if you don't rest, you won't recover and you know it. − Ash scolded seriously, bringing out the trainer side of him that knew what was better for his aibou and nàkama. However, even if his ideas were good, it didn't mean that he had to like them. − I'll do the first watch.

− Oh, nononono! You won't stay awake so long soon after recovering. − Pikachu protested.

− But I literally just slept without doing anything all the morning. − Ash rebutted. − Besides, I'm the one with inbuilt "radar", so I can warn you if someone with bad intentions is coming. And, − he added stopping any remark − there's no one around. Seriously, it's almost creepy.

...Now that you mention it... Pikachu raised his ears and listened to the nighttime noises. Being used to travel anywhere, they had grown accustomed to the various habitats natural sounds, so he knew what should be heard in the background. However, apart from the rustle of the leaves in the wind, there was nothing. At all. − Owww... You're right, it's creeeepy. − he breathed warily.

− How many of you bet that's because they were either swallowed by the Darkness or they migrated as far as they could from the neighborhood of the dungeons? − the Totodile suggested.

− It would make sense. Now that I think about it, during my reconnaissance this morning with the Specs the forests were empty sans for Amaryllis-san and her family. The other pokémon I saw were classified as hostile and were secluded in the areas outside the dungeons in the lower spires of Monte Faro. I couldn't see anywhere higher than Yamabuki City¹* skyscraper. − Pikachu shared the info with his partner since he had been knocked out the first time.

Fang clicked her namesakes in wonder. − How many floor had it?

− Fourteen? Thirteen? − Pikachu scratched his ear uncertainly. − I didn't really pay attention.

− ...Am I the only one who doesn't catch the reference? − at Lizard's pout, the Totodile patted sympathetically his scaly shoulder.

− It's a man-made building that is so high that it seems to "scrape" the sky. Usually it has more than, what, nine-ten floors? − the crocodile asked the Kanto duo.

− Seven, I guess? I vaguely remember the concept, but not the place. − Ash shrugged.

The casual mention squeezed the Mouse Pokémon's heart a bit. It was so unfair that Ash had to lose something so important in their life. ...But from what he had gathered from the previous conversations Rush and Fang were in kind of the same situation. Actually Ash was the lucky one since he could still remember his pokémon nàkama.

− Say Ash, I've got this doubt since we were inside the Mines. − Fang interjected in the rodent's trail of thoughts. − Which subjects do you actually remember about humans? Because I've noticed that anything pokémon-related seems fine. − This... was a really good question.

The three of them looked at the Emanation Pokémon expectantly, but he just blinked blankly.

− You recalled the skyscrapers, the Manaphy's water temple and musical instruments. − Lizard prompted, counting the references. − Probably even all the notions about Mega Evolutions too; however, from what Pikachu told us, it had been humans that taught you all of that. So what do you think you can or can't remember?

The three waited in silence as the trainer got lost in thoughts, at least until Fang wasn't able to stifle her yawns anymore and made him get back on track. − I'm not sure... but I'll think about it during my night shift. Now you have to rest. Please.

Oh no. Not the Lilpup-eyes-of-doom. A couple of seconds were enough to make Pikachu yield.

− Okay, fine. But you'll wake me and Lizard for the second shift. − the yellow rodent gave a stern glare to the azure reptile, who looked about to protest. − No complains, you have two fights on your shoulders, while the two of us don't. You should have probably followed Team Purplewing example at the same time as them.

− Fine. − She grumbled, caving in. She shifted on the sleeping bag in tandem with the Charmander so to stay side by side, but keep his flaming tail tip off her and the sleeping bag. − Good night. − she called, along with her partner.

Oyasumi. Com'on Pikachu, you too. − Ash patted the cloth beside him to invite his best friend to join him and sleep, but the pokémon had other ideas. He crawled half on the ex-human lap, half on the sleeping bag, and dropped his head on his paws, stubbornly claiming that spot.

His trainer chuckled quietly, but fondly, and started petting him slowly, lulling him to sleep surprisingly fast, given all the tension of the day and half. But on the other paw, Ash's comforting presence had always been enough to let him fall asleep soundly.


Fang and Lizard had asked a really good question. Which were the limits of his butchered memory?

He was certain that he was still able to recall all the notions about pokémon he had been taught, even if for most of then he couldn't tell how he had learned of.

The humans Pikachu had named... felt familiar, but not enough to make them pop up as faces or characteristics. ...However, he remembered some pokémon that had travelled with his team, but weren't part of it: there were several Water Types, like a Staryu, a Starmie, a Goldeen and a Psyduck. And associated with them a Horsea, a Gyarados, a Politoed, a Corsola and an Azurill later on? Then a Steelix, a Geodude, a Crobat, a Sudowoodo, a Chansey, a Forretress, a Marshtomp, a Ludicolo and a Croagunk. Of course there were others and he could tell which pokémon was in team with who (and he was certain that all the previously mentioned ones -along with a Togepi turned Togetic- were the oldest and he was familiar with them the most), but he couldn't still tell which trainer was in charge of which team.

As for the places... things got more tricky. Now that he was more lucid, he could recall at least the names of all the regions he had visited (mainly because they were related to which pokémon could be found in them), but not the names of the main cities or famous places, sans for certain ones, weirdly enough all linked to Legendary incidents. Samiya of course was one of them. Shamouti was another. Arborville, Alto Mare, Forina and LaRousse City were "a bit" relevant. And he wasn't certainly forgetting the clustershish of Rota and its Tree of Beginning, Alamos Town, the Reverse World and Michina Town; he couldn't, really. He recalled as well his almost death in Eindoak Town with Victiny or Pikachu's almost death near the Diamond Domain. Dahara City mishap explained itself, so the memory was still there with its possession. What else? Crown City, Roushan, New Tork City... ...New Island? What had happ-

Oh. They had met Mewtwo for the first time there. However, the "second time" at Mount Quena, he had been convinced it was the official first. Why? ...Maybe because he had died on that island? Really died? But Pikachu would have remembered in his stead if the trauma had made him forget. Perhaps... Uhm. Before flying away with a Mew and the clones, Mewtwo had mentioned erasing their memories. So why was Ash remembering this now?

Pikachu had told them that his Mega-charged Aura had flared before they had been knocked out, so maybe that was the reason for everything. The trans-dimensional teleport. The shape change. The missing memories. And now a missing one returned. Maybe then... Mewtwo had just blocked it and the Aura shock had unlocked it in turn, while sealing some of the rest? Why? Just the "adverse luck" Pikachu kept mentioning?

Ash sighed quietly and looked down at his lap, where the Electric Type slept, illuminated by the small tail flame of the unconscious Charmander. Absently the trainer started petting his best friend gently as he looked up at the dark forest.

It was really eerie without no one wandering or sleeping among the trees. A desert without being a literal sandy one.

Ash shook his head to get rid of those thoughts: he had better things to worry about! Like his future training regime with Pikachu and the others if he managed to convince them to help them.

Stamina wasn't an issue, he still felt fine even after a three-quarter full day of travel, and Riolu were sturdy pokémon to begin with. Aura manipulation was tricky, even if he had had a lucky shot with the first Aura Sphere and Dig. At least at aiming he was good enough, given all his practice at baseball and throwing Pokéballs. Uh, that was something about me outside from my pokémon knowledge! It's something at least.

The trainer hummed quietly in consideration, then went back to the training plan. He had a lot to catch up.

P~OwO~W

Rush snuggled into the soft surface under her, sighing contently at the comfort. This was way better than a hay bed. When we're back home, we will invest in some shaved Arcanine fur or some de-electrified Mareep wool. I've never been this well-rested before!

The Torchic's mind came to a slow halt once it realized her process of unrestrained thoughts: if they were on a sleeping bag, it meant that they weren't home at Sharpedo Bluff. That the Creepy Voice and the abduction hadn't been a dream. That (above all) the Shadow Raid hadn't been an exhaustion-induced nightmare.

The Chick Pokémon sighed deeply and dejectedly and blearily peeked around through an open eyelid. Not far from her, Poccha was still dead to the world, but beyond him a very ticked-off Pikachu sat, glaring defiantly at the greenery.

The forest was lit by the late lights of dawn, but there seemed to be no signs of danger around, sans for the alert ear of the Electric Type raised in her direction... So probably it was in response of her loud sigh, but it still was careful to inquiry about.

− 'Morning Pikachu. − Rush whispered, making said pokémon turn his head. − Everything's okay?

He hesitated, before he huffed, annoyed, but not as much as before. − Just typical Ash. He purposefully prolonged his solo shift until a couple of hours ago. We wanted to split the night into t least two turns, but he practically let us sleep in. If Lizard hadn't woken up to do his business, he would have probably stayed up all night for our sake.

Rush gasped: was that boy that selfless and moronic? − Well, then that's no good. − she commented drily, slowly sitting up and ruffling her feathers.

− Don't worry, Lizard and I already gave him an earful. − Pikachu nodded towards the end of the sleeping bag where the Riolu was sprawled beside Fang, who seemed to have curled on his flank. Rush blinked at the scene, then looked at the Mouse Pokémon in askance. − Cold-bloodied. Totodiles like warmth, so she rolled towards its nearest source, AKA Ash. It happened an hour ago, not long after Lizard went to patrol the surroundings. He's still taking a look with the Specs, probably in search for food. − he explained.

− We still have three apples, I think. − the Fire Type threw a glance at the bags, finding only her own Team's one and the backpack. Lizard had probably taken their Team bag to store the eventual-found food. − But I guess that foraging isn't ever enough with six pokémon travelling together.

− Yeah, our team always ended being that large in at least two months-travel. I know that dilemma too well. − Pikachu nodded sympathetically.

− I still wonder how you managed with the Munchlax and the Snorlax. − the Torchic commented with a snicker and the rodent groaned.

− Don't remind me. They are as bad as Gible and his obsession with metal. − he told her.

− Gible are practically babies, maybe he needed to up his iron intake. − the Fire Type commented off-wingly as the bushes near them rustled.

− I dunno if you were serious and so think nothing of that or if you were trying to make a pun and so be horrified. − her fellow Type commented as he joined them on the sleeping bag. The Torchic shrugged, holding back a snicker, and the Charmander sighed. − Anyway, notwithstanding that the woods are still deserted, there aren't as many berries as one would have expected in an abandoned area.

− So pokémon do expeditions every once in a while for foraging, but prefer to live somewhere else. − Rush guessed, making Lizard nod. − Still creepy though.

− Not as creepy as... − whatever the orange reptile was going to mention was forever lost to history, because he was interrupted by Ash leaping to his feet, unintentionally launching a startled awake Fang on the edge of the sleeping bag. With a spring he reached a nearby tree and as quietly as he could he started retching, leaning heavily on the bark, at least still standing even if hunched forward.

− Ash! − Pikachu called distressed, volume high enough to wake Poccha, who looked around as disoriented as his fellow Water Type.

The sick human raised the paw not gripping the bark in a "1 minute" gesture and the dry heaves turned into hard panting. Pikachu reached him anyway and rubbed his back in circles in a comforting attempt.

Rush threw a glance at the other girl, who seemed to catch its meaning because her eyes focused and she nodded in response. Their partners noticed the exchange and Lizard made an inquiry noise that the Totodile answered with: − Shadow Raid.

The horror drew in like a curtain before Poccha let out a trembling sigh. − I'm so glad that with Aparctias' shortcut we'll skip a dungeon.

− Is it already over? − Rush asked over the general nods of agreement. She remembered that Ash had been able to stop getting sick only near the end of the Raid.

− Not really... − came the shaky response. − I'm just managing to reign better... the nausea. − At that Lizard seemed to perk.

− If it's nausea, maybe I've got an idea. − he fished around his bag while approaching the duo. − Try a bite of Persim berry. If it works for confusion, maybe its side effects like dizziness or nausea are included.

− Worth a try. − the Electric Type commented, receiving said berry and offering it to his best friend, who took a tentative bite. As the ex-human munched, his body seemed to sag in relief.

− Thanks Lizard. − Ash sighed, then straightened and carefully turned, leaning against the trunk with his back in order to be stable and look at the whole group. − Sorry for throwing you Fang.

− Eh, it's alright. It was time to wake up and be back on the road anyway. I just need half an Apple and I'm good to go. − she dismissed nonchalantly, standing and reaching Lizard who handed her said fruit. Wordlessly she cut it in half with a Shadow Claw and passed the other one to her partner while she munched her own. He exchanged it for another whole apple that she divided and offered the halves to Team Purplewing who accepted with a nod. Pikachu waved them off when they turned to look at him, so Fang hijacked her own attention to her fellow Water Type. − Say Poccha, you have the instructions, how much is left?

− Oh! You see that Miltank shaped rock, right? − The Penguin Pokémon beamed excited, pointing with his free wing at the rock beside the sleeping bag. The five glanced at it then turned questioningly to the blue bird. − It's the first landmark. We'll have to go off-road from now on, but it'll take an hour at max then.

− I really like the sound of it! I would really want to meet a non-psychotic Legendary Beast before we hit the mistrustful one who I'm weak against. − The Totodile nodded sagely, arms crossed and apple-core discarded.

− Well, we'll see. − Lizard grimaced as he finished his breakfast.

They dismounted the camp and divided the newly gathered supplies, letting Ash keep all the Persim berries, while the few Oran, Rawst and Leppa berries were divided evenly between the Teams.

− Now where to, navigator? − Rush asked her partner who was re-reading the indications and the map. He looked up in anticipation.

− Now, we proceed east until we find an oak. − he announced, taking the lead and everyone followed him.

The group walked in silence, probably since Ash seemed still a bit tense for the ongoing Shadow raid. Or at least the silence lasted till they reached said oak. It had been easy to find, really.

− Here it is. − the penguin noted, patting the bark with a wing, then looked first at the sky to note the sun position, then at the roots with a frown. − Then we have to head north until a "wall" of black rock.

Rush was about to ask why they couldn't have just cut through the forest to reach it, when the Riolu behind her seemed to fully deflate in relief.

− You okay Ash? − the Torchic mother-henned.

− Yeah, the Raid just ended. The wrongness didn't seem really satisfied, but at least it didn't level up to a Phase Two. − the Fighting Type grimaced along with the girls.

− So you mean that it ate someone who was probably big enough to quell its hunger but also small enough to consider it an "appetizer"? − Fang dryly asked with an undertone of disgust.

Ash shrugged, helplessly and fidgeted with the backpack straps. − I just hope that this won't mean another Raid today. Even if the Legendaries are powerful and are with or without backup, a pokémon can handle only so many battles a day.

− Guys, not that that discussion isn't important, but I need some help. − the Piplup called, making the four (excluding Lizard since he had already been helping) turn towards him and find the blue bird and the orange reptile searching for something among the roots of the oak.

− What are you doing? − Pikachu inquired, reaching them.

− We must find a key. It's hidden somewhere around here. We need it to be able to pass the next obstacle. − Poccha replied, still fumbling around. As a sole pokémon, the six put themselves wholeheartedly in the quest and they needed just few minutes to reach a result.

− Found it! − Lizard shouted raising it above his head. It was made in a red metal that had a flame shape for bow, which had a hole in the middle for a keychain. − Is it the one?

− Yup. Now he head north. − the Penguin Pokémon approved, beginning to walk in said direction.

− Do we need to search for a keyhole on the wall? − Pikachu asked curiously as they proceeded.

− Indeed. There's no precise position for it, like for the key, though: they prefer to switch it around to prevent anyone else to stumble on them accidentally. − he answered sagely. The Electric Type hummed in thanks and the group kept on.

In less than ten minutes they found their goal and split to search for the keyhole. The rock of the cliff was sturdy and with bumpy but slick surfaces, impossible for anyone to climb on who wasn't a bug- or slug-like pokémon. This time the search was more difficult, because the glassy proprieties of the rock made the task trickier. However after twenty minutes or so, Ash called for them.

Minna, maybe I found it! − he pointed up, three meters and half above the ground, where under the shade of a bump something darker seemed evident.

The six huddled around the Emanation Pokémon and peered at the pointed area. − Maybe. But how can we reach it to check? − Lizard wondered, puzzled, while looking around for something to use as a ramp.

− We've got this, no need to worry. − Pikachu announced and backed to the treeline, before running towards them -or better- towards Ash, who had cupped his paws one under the other, was slightly crouched and seemed waiting for him. As a matter of fact, he gave a boost up to the rodent who was launched up exactly at the required height and latched on the wall by planting his Iron Tail in the rock.

The teams gaped disbelieving as the Mouse Pokémon checked upside-down the anomaly. How...What...?

− The keyhole is really here! Can someone toss me the key? − Pikachu innocently asked, oblivious of the reaction of those still on ground.

People from the mixed world were crazy. Or maybe it was just the two of them? Rush feared asking that question aloud.

B~OwO~F

That request was enough to shake Lizard from his gaping stupor, but that hadn't been enough to not make him hesitate in answering. − S-sure! − he chucked the key in the expecting paws of the Electric Type, who swiftly inserted it in the opening and turned it. Nothing happened for few seconds, then a square section of rock around the keyhole suddenly was sucked inside the cliff wall, dragging along the key and making Pikachu yelp in alarm.

− Are you okay? − Ash called, as his best friend carefully peered inside the hole. How long could he maintain the Iron Tail? And could he really teach him that?

Before Pikachu could respond, a foreign voice interjected: − State your name and business.

− Uh... I'm Pikachu and my partner's Ash. − he pause uncertain. − ...We came along with Team Bitefire and Team Purplewing as per Aparctias-sama's request to give Hekla-sama a message from him. − Pikachu struggled a bit in trying to speak in a formal way, but he had sounded acceptable enough.

Very well. You can get down now, I will open the passage. − the Steel Type move active on the tail dispelled, making the overworlder drop down in the awaiting arms of his partner, who put him down gently.

− Do you do those kind of stunts every time without a second thought? − Rush asked with the tone of someone knowing already the answer and dreading it.

− "Stunts"? − the Riolu tilted his head, puzzled. − That was pretty normal.

− Okay, I regret asking. − she groaned in a long-suffering fashion as a section of the cliff wall retracted (much like the square had done) and slid sideways to reveal a cave with a small... something floating at the entrance.

− I am Fantomius²*, Guardian of Geothermic Village secret entrances. Can you show me your badges? − the unknown pokémon requested, so the four complied. − What about you? − the key-master (given the number of key hanging from a loop under a small keyhole-shaped body) turned to Ash and Pikachu, who fidgeted uncomfortably.

− They're rescued pokémon. − Lizard intervened. − They're accompanying us in our journey for lack of a place to stay. − he threw a meaningful glance to the two, so they nodded in agreement.

− Very well, you may proceed. The entrance for the village is at the end of the tunnel. There, Mistress Teide will guide you towards your goal and through the village. You shall ask her all your questions. − the keys clinked as the strange pokémon leaned forward in a sort of a bow, then moved away from the entrance to let them get in.

The group complied with the silent command and the passage closed behind them. The tunnel was illuminated by torches, so they could see its end blocked by a wall made of wood. How would they get out? Was there another secret passageway?

The tiny pokémon zoomed past them and inserted one of his keys in a fissure between two wood panels, unlocking something that revealed to be a concealed door. The six marveled at display on the other side: the next room was made of wood too and given the counter on the left side they were in an inn. However, it wasn't the location what awed them, but the decorations.

Never in his life Lizard had seed something so refined and detailed. Four rafters crossed the outer sides of the ceiling, forming a sort of rectangle in the middle, and, at the intersections of each roof beam, a pillar sustained the structure from the ceiling to the ground, where (instead of rocks or dirt) the pavement was made of timber too. The Mankey boss had mentioned something similar during the reconstruction of the Team Base, calling it parquet... Maybe this was it: it was dark brown (almost black) in contrast with the red pillars and rafters and it looked smooth and well polished. Probably thanks to two fluffy gray pokémon fretting from one corner to another and were using their tails to dust everywhere.

The chamber had also a stainless gold-red rug, spacing from the counter to a huge door (probably the entrance) almost as if it guided the guest inside the inn. Several golden lamps (shaped like twisting Gyarados hanging on the rafters with flames coming from their maws) illuminated the space with an amber colored light. There were several benches aligned with the walls, some of them occupied by various species of pokémon like Taillow, Weedle, Bidoof, Growlithe and other pokémon he had never seen. Like a surely Grass Type monkey with a bush on its head and a long tail, a yellow caterpillar with a leaf hat and another caterpillar but dark grey with three barbs on top of his head and a white fur-like collar.

No one noticed the seven as Fantomius ushered them into the room and closed the concealed door from the tunnel side, which returned invisible. Lizard wondered how it had been possible until a surprised screech startled him and everyone around.

The source of said noise had been a strange crimson bird pokémon with lines of black feathers on both wings and tail. It had the eyelids painted in lilac and a sort of a white bun on the top back of its head with a twirling white feather on either side of its head, as if they were earrings. The avian was fluttering towards them, eyes shining in excitement. What...?

− Oh my Tapu! − a cool soprano squealed as the bird landed in front of them. It (she?) was as tall as Team Bitefire and Pikachu, but its (her?) attention was all focused on the "tallest" of their group (if only by few centimeters) who was eyeing the overly excited pokémon warily and helplessly. − A Riolu! How...

~OwO~

It had started like a dull morning compared to the day before: now that the eggs had hatched and the feeding rush had settled, the new babies were more manageable, so Asahi (their porter and father-figure Hariyama) had been able to deal with them solo.

Teide almost wished she could go and lend a wing instead of manning the counter of the "Hotspot Inn". And in her case manning was still a figure of speech since with nothing better to do (at the moment there were no new clients) she was perched on one of the rafters, trying some new moves for her choreography.

Though everything changed when she heard the hidden side door (that led to the Obsidian Wall) open quietly. She looked down and a thrill of excitement surged through her at the sight of the new guests. ...At least she managed to rein her excitement down until Fantomius had closed the door.

− Oh my Tapu! A Riolu! How... − she chirped, landing neatly before the pokémon that had caught her interest. And who didn't look startled but mainly surprised by her enthusiasm. Had it anticipated her arrival through its Aura Sense?

Due to this development, it -he- was the first to reply. − Ah, gomen, we're foreign.

Oh. He had expected her to ask if he was one of the lost Riolu? Probably. But she would have understood the different origin as soon as he had spoken up anyway. His accent was completely dissimilar from the one of the Lucario clan. It wasn't too strong, but it reminded her of how Lady Huma, mother of Lady Hekla, spoke when visited the hot springs. Plus with her affinity to music and its slight variations that could change dance movements, she had spotted the key clue.

− Oh, my apologies. It is easy to jump to conclusions when in this region Riolu are born only in the neighbors of Antro Dojo. − she bowed her head slightly, but by doing so she eyed the badges still in paw -or wing- of four of the newcomers. Oh, E&R Teams. This explains somehow the use of the secret passageway... − I am Teide, supreme Onnagata³* of Geothermic Village Kabuki theater and occasional innkeeper of Hotspot Inn. How can I be of use for... − she lowered her voice in a barely hearable whisper (due to the rest of the clientele in the hall) as she bowed, one wing behind the back and the other splayed sideways in after a sweeping gesture, − two E&R Teams?

The Riolu and the Pikachu (who didn't have any badge, she noticed) bowed automatically in response (just less lowly), forcing the Teams to imitate the custom to avoid any awkwardness.

− Well, Mr. Fantomius just told us that you could lead us to Lady Hekla. − the Charmander spoke up, before fishing a sealed letter from the bag at the hip of the Totodile. It bore the North Wind sigil. − We're on a mission from Sir Aparctias.

Teide straightened, feeling the urgency behind the Lizard Pokémon's words, then gestured to the badges with her wing. − Very well. I suggest you to hide those for the meantime; I hope either Sir Aparctias or madam Amaryllis warned you of the double-edge sword of being recognized as an E&R Team. − she informed, crossing her wings casually, but still quiet enough.

− If you're talking about how many of them disappeared or went rogue, then yes, they did. Otherwise we're clueless. − the Charmander answered, putting away the badge as the others did the same. His wariness was cute actually, so she smiled encouragedly.

− Follow me little fledglings, Lady Hekla will be ecstatic to receive news of her brother. − she turned to the counter that was now manned by a Miltank, just returned from her chore. − Aso-darling, I'm going to Collina Fornace, do you need anything?

The Normal Type perked, then pondered a bit. − I still haven't delivered the morning dairy bin, there had been a rush order for the new hatchlings in daycare wing at dawn. I can call Asahi to help you with the Moomoo Milk.

− We can help with that. − the Riolu, always a gentleman as his species was, offered immediately. However he added in a hushed voice. − Above all, since on our way here, there has been a Raid. Hekla-sama and her helpers, if she has them, will probably need healing.

− How did... You-you felt the Raid, didn't you? − Aso almost demanded, exchanging a panicked look with Teide. − You weren't near Collina Fornace dungeon and there's no available one unsealed in this zone.

− Ah, yeah... It's not the most pleasant thing I've ever felt, it's unmistakable. − the Fighting Type nodded with a grimace.

− From what we noticed it went on probably for at least fifteen minutes, but it didn't escalate into a Phase Two. − the Pikachu added his two Pokéyen.

− And you know this how? − the bird asked lowly. How can they determine something like that too?

− Yesterday morning he warned us about a Raid and Rush and I witnessed fistpaw the madness of a Shadow Raid in the Mines of Monte Faro. − the Totodile gestured to the Torchic while mentioning her name. − Needless to say: he felt the difference between Phases.

− Nice to know. Maybe if we could find someone with the ability of reading Aura, we could ask them for help... − Aso mused, getting side tracked. A deep chirp from the Fire-Flying Type startled her from her musings. − Right, Moomoo Milk. I've got two cans at the ready. If two of you try to carry one each, I think you'll manage...

− Sure! We'll be happy to help! − this time it was the Pikachu who said that, with the same accent the Riolu had.

Aso guided the six to the storage where the bins were kept and all of them watched with awe as the Riolu effortlessly hoisted up one of those with the capacity of 20 liters higher than him. Then had the gall to look at them in honest confusion and askance and uttered: − Where now?

These fledglings were going to be fun to be near to. Teide looked forward their meeting with Lady Hekla.


Do you wanna save the game?

►YES

NO

...φ

SAVED.


¹* Saffron City. I chose the Japanese version to both remark the Oriental ancestry of the Kanto-Johto region (in contrast to the American of Unova, French of Kalos and Hawaiian of Alola) and for a later use of a certain city name that sounds waaay better in Japanese...

²* I wanted to make an oxymoron (or at least I think that is the closest rhetoric figure I'm trying to name) here: the guardian of the keys of secret entrances, someone who keeps places and treasures safe from evildoers, is named after a comic phantom thief.

(For those who wonder who he is, you should search for "Paperinik" -or "Duck Avenger" as he's called in USA-, but basically he's just Donald Duck that becomes an underground hero. And he's cool. So much cool. *^*)

³* Now, technically speaking, onnagata are male actors who play female roles in Kabuki plays. So, Teide... ∑:3c


A/N. Happy Earth Day and late Easter/Easter Monday!

What was supposed to be the April Fool update (I wanted to do the April Fool chapter to be a NO chapter and publish it the day after, but real life and world building got in the way... Read: Teide decide that she wanted a real background and actual names/roles/species for the characters of this Arc. U¤U) became an Earth Day/Easter one! Sorry to keep you waiting! I hope I'll be on time next month, we'll go onwards with the plot!

I somewhat solved the adverse effects of the Raids on Ash, but who knows when the berries will end or the attacks will will get worse? xD Anyway, he's reckless as usual and thinking about training is his natural "coffee", so he wasn't going to sleep anyway despite the planned turns.

The Inn is somehow inspired by the style of old Japanese buildings (if you need some references), as will be Geothermic Village as you'll read next chapter.

In the meantime the hype for Avengers: Endgame is hight, I believe that here in Italy we'll see it before USA, so this is an achievement that we needed at long last. Wish me good luck for the cinema marathon!

Hope you liked this chapter, type ya soon!

EDIT: A friend of mine pointed out that because of the roles each magma-related dungeon had, the names should have been switched. So now Vulcano Fornace is Vulcano Fucina and Collina Fucina is Collina Fornace. Sorry for the confusion. (๑=ㅂ=๑|||)

[Spaik-W: if you were actually making fun of me, then GG. If you weren't, well... My justification is that, apart from Emerald and Platinum (which were the third version of an already released generation), no main pokémon game was released "alone". So it didn't cross my mind that multiple versions could be a potential spoiler.

Anyway, any guess of who is what after the reread? I'm hungry for some feedback! ∑OwO

You're welcome!

L'assassin orange: ...yeah, I'm aware that Totodile was part of Ash's Johto team... Where was this question originated from?

I'm a bit lost here...]