Interlude Day 003

Teide had shown them their room and had excused herself to let them rest and tend to their injuries after the Raid, so the six had taken advantage of the opportunity to quietly unwind, meaning they were sprawled on a large slim mattress at the center of the inn room and were resting idly. Or at least, everyone sans Ash, who was sitting on the edge of the futon and was rummaging inside his backpack.

‒ What are you looking for Ash? ‒ Poccha mumbled, peering at the mammal over his crossed wings.

‒ I saw a pouch before… If inside there's what I think… ‒ He fished a pochette and zipped it open, prompting an elated yip. Pikachu's ears perked and their owner looked up curiously, only to jump up on all fours and reach his partner eagerly. ‒ Hey buddy, do you think that there are other hot springs beside the ones inside the dungeon? ‒ Ash asked Pikachu as he looked equally eager at him.

‒ Probably. It wouldn't be profitable to keep a hot spring bath-spot in a place as dangerous as a dungeon, Shadows notwithstanding. ‒ Lizard offered helpfully, still fidgeting with Hekla's ex-Embleteora. ‒ Why though? Didn't you two have enough steam for a day?

‒ Are you kidding? Steam during a battle isn't the same thing as soaking into thermal water! ‒ Pikachu chided, before turning towards Ash. ‒ Maybe we could ask either Teide-san or Aso-san! And after the bath we could try to groom each other, since we're about the same size now. ‒ The Mouse Pokémon eyed his friend speculatively.

‒ That didn't ever keep you from trying! ‒ The trainer ruffled his partner's head fur. ‒ I do remember several times where you tried to lick away my sleep-made Tauros-licks.

‒ Well, it will be easier now that I learned the grooming techniques along with you. ‒ Pikachu huffed, but leaned into the caress.

‒ What about you guys? Do you want a turn too? ‒ The Riolu asked the Teams as he stood, leaving backpack and the X-Ray Specs on the edge of the futon.

‒ I'll take you up that offer. Even after all this time as a Torchic, I'm still unable to groom myself properly. ‒ Rush stood as well, stretching her legs and spine.

‒ Not that's your fault. ‒ Poccha commented, yawning. ‒ There was no other Torchic, Combusken or Blaziken around to ask to.

‒ Yeah, I'm in the same situation, plus I'm curious about the "human way", so I'll tag along. ‒ Fang crawled out the bedding and straightened, turning to the Charmander and the Piplup. ‒ You two rest. I'll ask if they have dust baths here for you Lizard.

The duo thanked her and, while the male Fire Type kept examining the space rock, the feathery Water Type began to nod off. The partner of the latter smiled amused as the four left the room: Poccha, Lizard and Pikachu had done a good job during the Raid, so they deserved all the rest and pampering they could get.

B~OwO~F

Aso the Miltank was more than happy to show them the private hot spring and dust baths of the Inn. Fang, Ash and Pikachu showered before soaking in the almost scalding thermal water while Rush dusted herself to "try and overwrite the sensation of the dissolving Shadows on her".

‒ You know, ‒ Rush began once they reunited after their respective baths ‒ after not possessing hands, not being able to take a bath is another thing I miss. ‒ She sighed.

‒ Well, sooner or later you'll get back at least one of those once you evolve. ‒ Fang tried to console, patting her feathers which gave off dust at every light hit.

‒ Hey, dust baths aren't that bad. ‒ Pikachu defended.

‒ Yeah, yeah, but can they really be comparable to soaking inside a liquid that doesn't harm you and that washes your fatigue and grit away? ‒ The Fire Type whined dramatically. ‒ One time at the end of a mission, we were geyser-ed into a hot spring and I tried to see if the water would harm me even if it was hot. I felt fine for a while, but once I was back to the Guild I got so sick that they had to ask Chimecho for a Heal Bell and the Kecleon for healing items!

‒ Ah, I see your point. ‒ The yellow rodent conceded, grimacing a bit. ‒ But the way that Ash grooms you is as good as a hot bath, you'll see!

‒ Pikachu! I'm not that good, I bet that who taught me was better. ‒ The ex-human boy protested, embarrassed.

‒ In technique maybe, but the care you put in how you groom me and the others makes it better than any professional would ever be. ‒ Pikachu sniffed with a tone of finality. ‒ Com'on, it's been at least a week since you brushed me, I deserve it!

The Riolu sighed fondly as the four came back in their shared room and the yellow rodent dove for the pouch to retrieve the brush. Fang smiled in amusement as the duo played a mini version of "Keep away" with the tool, probably to burn off the last of the tension from the battle.

‒ Pikachu, I actually need the brush if you want to be groomed! ‒ Ash had managed to lock his best friend under him and was attempting to tickle the Mouse into submission.

‒ Fine, I give! ‒ Pikachu squealed between the giggles, then rolled over and handed the brush to his trainer.

‒ Are you always like this? ‒ Fang had to ask with a smile, as the duo took a breather.

‒ Depends on the occasion. ‒ Pikachu waved off, crawling on the Fighting Type legs. ‒ But usually more often than not.

Minna, if you want, there are both dust baths and hot springs to wash off the grime of the raid and the journey. ‒ Ash informed Lizard and Poccha. ‒ The girls' turn is next, but if you're curious I could show you how I learned to groom Charmander and Piplup too.

‒ Maybe next time, but I'd like to see Fang's. ‒ The former peered interested at the boneless puddle that Pikachu had become under the trainer's care.

‒ Same, if there are ways to make Rush feel better I want to know too. ‒ Poccha agreed readily.

‒ No problem. You can take your time washing, Pikachu's fur is full of knots, it'll take a while. ‒ Ash told them as they left, earning two nods.

Fang lied down on her belly, observing the well practiced strokes of the brush across the yellow fur, gently untangling the knots and removing the shed hairs. The whole process was carried out in a comfortable silence, just occasionally interrupted by chirped "chaaaa"s and soft chuckles.

Rush had ruffled her feathers to get rid of the dust and had rolled on the mattress until resting her back against Fang's side (after asking if she could), still lying down. Her warmth wasn't uncomfortable (despite her Fire Type, she wasn't scalding), on the contrary the fluff of her feathers was a welcome soft comfort that unfortunately Lizard's scales couldn't provide. That was one of the reasons why the Big Jaw Pokémon loved to cuddle against Zenchou's side white fur. She owed her Absol teammate many things beside her life.

Ash hadn't exaggerated when he had said it would take a while, because by the time the others returned, he was about to finish, meaning he was gently applying a (conductive) balm on Pikachu's red cheeks.

‒ What's this? ‒ Poccha picked up the tube inquiringly.

‒ When Pikachu uses that much electricity during a battle, that cream prevents the skin on his cheek to lose elasticity and helps the natural process of replenishing their reserve. I bought that one, but I can make it from scratch if I find the right ingredients. ‒ The Riolu kept his paws on his partner's face, stroking him calmly, then he delicately guided him forward so their foreheads touched tenderly. There was a pause that made Fang mildly uncomfortable, as if this was a scene that she shouldn't have been privy to, but that moment passed as soon as Ash announced a cheerful: ‒ Done! ‒ He raised up along with his partner and they both stretched, satisfaction written on their muzzle. ‒ Who wants to be first, Fang or Rush?

The girls looked at each other, uncertain. From the expression alone they both wouldn't mind either go or wait.

‒ What do you usually do with when you groom Torchic and Totodile? ‒ Rush asked instead, still leaning on Fang.

The Fighting Type hummed pensive, eyeing the two. ‒ Scales and feathers care is different. The firsts need a certain kind of wax to polish them and facilitate the blood flow to either warm or cool the Pokémon, while the latter depending on the Type need different kinds of oil. Usually birds produce the right kind on their own, but if the person who is preening you isn't family is preferred to use substitutes. ‒ Ash explained, looking at Poccha for confirmation.

‒ Yeah, the glands that produce that kind of oil are usually on the base of the tail. It's pretty intimate. ‒ The Penguin Pokémon blushed slightly, ruffling his own feathers. Fang could totally understand the reason for the embarrassment.

‒ But luckily for you I have the Fire Type feathers oil in my kit! When we're back home, I'll get the recharge and I'm sure Talonflame wouldn't mind. ‒ Ash reassured, ignoring completely the previous awkwardness.

‒ Well, since the oil is going to grease his paws the most, maybe it's better if you go with the wax first. ‒ Rush reasoned, rolling away to let Fang sit up.

‒ Point. I'm in your care then, Ash. ‒ The Totodile moved before the Riolu earning a grin from him.

‒ Thank you for your trust. ‒ The other ex-human replied earnestly. ‒ You can sit down, I'll start with your back then move to your front and last to your head. If you feel uncomfortable, please tell me and I'll stop. ‒ He went to his backpack and retrieved a tube that contained a yellowish paste.

Ash dipped the tip of his paw inside the paste and scooped a goop that slowly spread on the largest red crest of her back. He started with small circular motions, then slid the paws from the tip to the base, applying slightly more pressure. He repeated the process at least trice before shifting his attention on the smaller crests (which got the same attention). After requesting her to lay down on her belly, Ash spread the warmed up wax on the azure scales, massaging her back at the same time.

Fang… could understand why Pikachu had been a blissed-out puddle before. Since becoming a Totodile, she had never experienced this level of muscular relaxation. Sure, after saving the world from the meteorite there hadn't been any imminent threats, but a lingering tension to leap in action had always been present, as if she had been bracing for the next adventure. And… Fang was now in that next adventure and there would be unknown dangerous missions waiting for them, but under this type of care she felt like she could forget about the future for a little. Lizard and she were safe, so Fang was allowed to relax.

After she gave consent to groom her tail, muzzle and limbs, Ash went on, applying more pressure on the arms and legs to loosen the muscles underneath the tough scales. The tail would have been an awkward story in normal circumstances, but the ex-human kept his paws on the dorsal and lateral part of the appendage, polishing its scales and massaging its powerful muscles.

The attention Ash gave to the head was different: the touches were delicate and slower, as if he didn't want to startle her. From the tip of her nose to her eyebrows and to the side of her jaws he spread the wax that smelled slightly like honey. Probably she had dozed off a bit because the next thing she was aware of was her partner's laugh.


‒ Is she asleep? ‒ Lizard whispered in disbelief hearing a quiet snore.

‒ Yeah, it happens often. This was one of the only ways that worked to put my Totodile to sleep when he was too excited. ‒ The trainer answered, toweling off the wax paste from his paws.

‒ What did you use? It smells like honey. ‒ Poccha commented, sniffing the air.

‒ Because it's made with a mix of Combee and Carnauba wax. They're great to polish scales since they repel water, but hydrates the skin underneath. It's great even for your scales Lizard, my Charizard wanted me to massage him at least… once a month? ‒ Ash looked at Pikachu for confirmation, getting it. ‒ So, no need to worry.

‒ Maybe next time, thank you. You'll have to teach me though, I want to be able to melt Fang that way. ‒ Lizard snickered, rousing his scaly partner.

‒ Whassup…? ‒ She murmured disoriented, but her gaze focused on her partner and his amused expression, turning into a glare. ‒ What did you do?

‒ Nothing! ‒ Lizard defended quickly glancing at the others to get support.

‒ He just asked to learn, nothing to worry about. ‒ His fellow Fire Type came to his rescue and mindlessly plopped herself before Ash. ‒ My turn!

P~OwO~W

After seeing the effect the massage had on Fang, Rush was eager to feel for herself how Ash grooming was like. Said boy chucked and retrieved a bottle with a strange cap and a towel.

‒ Okay, I have to warn you, the first half is going to be a little uncomfortable. You have a lot of pins and I have to remove them. ‒ The Riolu sat on his knees behind her and carded his paw across the feathers on the back of her head. She could feel him grimace even without seeing him.

‒ What do you mean with pins? ‒ Lizard tilted his head in confusion.

‒ They're the casing of new feathers, usually they come off on their own. ‒ Poccha answered, frowning. ‒ But back home isn't even fall, she shouldn't have them yet!

‒ Torchic are the "hatchling" stage of Blaziken, so they're constantly molting. Nothing drastic, but few feathers a time get changed. Luckily the feathers are also mostly fluff, so they don't break as often and easily than normal ones. Rush, look at these. ‒ Ash pointed at some sort of whitish sticks or needles that were camouflaged inside her fluff. ‒ They protect the new feathers, but when they get longer than half of your talons, you have to remove them. Unfortunately, since you don't have nails and prehensile limbs, if you're alone you'll have to use your beak. ‒ Rush recoiled a bit at the thought: that sounded disgusting!

‒ Think of it like biting on your nails. From what I saw, humans do that all the time. ‒ Pikachu pointed out, sensing her discomfort.

Rush blinked, throwing a glance at Fang, who nodded, still laying down. ‒ I do that even now, but back then I wanted smooth nails, here I need sharp talons. ‒ She rattled said weapons on the futon to demonstrate.

‒ Well, I'd rather take someone else's help, since they offered. ‒ The feathered ex-human shuddered and turned her pleading Growlithe-eyes on Ash, who chuckled.

‒ Don't worry, I'll take them off. ‒ He reassured her as he gently began scratching her. Ash had been right: at the beginning the itching was feeling slightly uncomfortable, but as the capsules fell off the new feathers, the sensation was replaced by weightlessness. It took an embarrassing while with how many pins there were and she had never noticed… Maybe because she was more focused on other tasks and never quite stopped from moving forward. ‒ Done, I took off all the ones I could reach. Now it's time for the actual grooming! Can you go there and ruffle your feathers? ‒ Ash pointed to a corner of the room. ‒ It's better if you shake off the dead skin away from the bed.

‒ Yessir! ‒ Rush hurried over and eagerly quaked her feathers in an explosion of dust. She kept on until the excessive nervous energy accumulated from watching the Raid wore off, so she stopped and wobbled back to the futon, plopping down with a relieved sigh. ‒ Wow, that was satisfying on so many levels! Now I know why Growlithe do that.

‒ I know, right? ‒ Pikachu chuckled. ‒ But wait until the main event.

‒ The "oil" right? ‒ The Torchic tilted her head towards the Fighting Type, who nodded.

‒ Yeah, this one main ingredient is Passho Berry, that's why it's good for the feathers of Fire Types: it makes them water repellent and resistant, plus it has a nice smell. Close your eyes for a bit. ‒ Ash instructed and she obliged. There was several ffffsss noises and the feathers on her head weightened down bit by bit until she felt the futon shift under the other's weight. ‒ Okay, now I'm gonna spread the oil evenly with the towel, tell me if you feel uncomfortable.

Rush hummed in assent, letting the Riolu gently stroke the back of her head, smoothing her feathers and spreading the thin film of oil to coat all her plumage. The soft caresses eventually extended to the rest of her head and devolved to Ash carding through the fluff, straightening tangled short feathers and the barbs of the more developed quills.

The massage went on like that, with Ash pausing every now and then to add more oil and with Rush going more boneless at every stroke. The time-traveller now did get why Fang had nodded off during her own grooming session. Pikachu was right! Ash may not be a professional, but his paws are magic! The Torchic though, thanking Arceus that she hadn't become a feline pokémon, otherwise she would be purring.

All too soon the preening slowed down until it came to a stop, making her sigh dejectedly at the loss. As she peeled open her eyelids, Rush managed to mutter: ‒ Are you sure you're really not a professional?

Under the azure and black fur, Ash was definitely blushing as he spluttered denials. ‒ I've just more experience with birds Pokémon! Seven of my nakàma have feathers, it's only natural!

‒ Very well, if you're sure…‒ Rush trailed, slowly and grudgingly getting up. ‒ Thank you for the pampering! ‒ She smiled and dragged herself towards Poccha to drop forward across on his back, making him grunt at the sudden weight.

Content to feel the cushion of her partner's feathers and his steady heartbeat near her, Rush decided that a nap was in order. They would need all the energy they could get for the next step of their journey if Aparctias' words about his stubborn Raikou sister were true.

X~OwO~Y

‒ My turn! ‒ Pikachu felt all the buzzing energy that had been dissipated earlier come in full force at the prospect of being able to groom his aibou.

He dove for the backpack to retrieve Ash's human-brush. If there was a lesson that he had learned from Brock, it was to keep the tools for fur-care exclusive for each 'mon in order to avoid an unintentional spreading of unknown parasites. The older boy had called it "preventive hygienic measures". The Electric Type hadn't understood the implication until they had stopped to rest at a Pokémon Center and had witnessed a quarantined area where the pack of Jenny's Growlithe was being isolated for rashes due to exchanged and not perfectly washed brushes.

While Pikachu was searching, Ash hadn't been idle: he had put away the rest of the kit and had sat on his patch of the futon obediently to look at him in amused fondness. The Mouse Pokémon noticed said expression once he looked up from his successful little quest and pouted as he marched towards Ash. ‒ Stop that. ‒ Pikachu grumbled, pushing him back a bit.

‒ Why? It's cute that you're so excited! ‒ The Riolu booped him on the nose, but settled down to give him better access, despite being short for his (new) species. Delia-kaasan wasn't on the short side, so maybe it was Ash's father fault. Not that he could confirm, there weren't family photos of the trio together around home. Perhaps Pikachu could ask once they were back.

As he mulled over that detail, Pikachu mussed the fur atop Ash's head inquisitively, in order to decide where to begin. The locks of fur that Riolu usually used in aid to feel the Aura seemed the most tangled, so better start with that.

The brush stopped several times at the knots, but, apart from slightly wincing, Ash didn't protest. He seemed more focused first on Pikachu's paws, then his eyes danced across the room from a rescue teammate to another. Was he reading their Aura?

‒ What'cha doing? ‒ Pikachu murmured so lowly that only his aibou could hear.

‒ Training. I'm trying to memorize the voices of your Orchestra pieces, so I can find you better if something like before in the dungeon happens again. ‒ His trainer whispered back.

‒ Tell me again what I feel like. ‒ The yellow 'mon said as untangled gently yet another knot. At that the Riolu closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. The feeler under Pikachu's paw seemed to begin to buzz, but didn't move.

‒ Like being in a thunderstorm while huddling down in a shelter. Like the air filled with ozone. The voice of your violin is so sharp, clear, I could pick it up even during the loudest rock slide. And you could do a solo, but you prefer to harmonize with the others to make a better melody. You did that in the dungeon, by the way. ‒ Ash peeked back at him at that statement, as he began to comb the other feeler.

‒ I blame you for that. You trained us to make teams on the fly with Pokémon and trainers we barely knew. ‒ Pikachu teased, making his friend snort.

‒ It's not like I did that consciously! The most of the times we needed it! ‒ This time it was the ex-human turn to pout, making his starter giggle.

‒ I know. That's why we're so good at it. ‒ He rebutted, keeping on stroking away the knots.

Another bout of silence stretched from there, letting Pikachu focus on his task as he switched to the Riolu' back, then the arms, the tail and the front. He took particularly care with the muzzle and the rest of his head, grooming the fur and lightly scratching Ash behind the ears to see if they were a good spot as it was for him. Given how much the blue tail wagged and he tilted his head to lean in, yes they were.

‒ Here, all done. ‒ Pikachu mumbled. He stood up, stretching and freeing Ash's comb from the extra fur it had accumulated among its teeth. He threw the waste in the same spot Rush had shed her dead-skin-dust: Aso had reassured them that they took care of that kind of rubbish, regularly and it wasn't a bother. Still, it was better to accumulate everything in a single spot to easy their patrons' workload.

When Pikachu turned to the group, he found his partner laying down on his side, eyes closed. When the Riolu (literally) sensed his confusion, he patter down the mattress before his chest, inviting the Mouse Pokémon inside the enclosed space formed by his body half-curled up in a "C" letter. Ah, a cuddle fest! Sure, the angle with the new body-size difference would be a little awkward, but Pikachu would rarely turn down this sort of physical affection.

After discarding the comb back to its place, Pikachu crawled inside the offered "niche" and nuzzled up under Ash's muzzle as the other enveloped hin into a relaxed embrace. He wouldn't cease to feel safe like this ever, Pikachu decided once again, like he always did after an intense experience.

Ne, Ash? ‒ The Electric Type murmured low enough to be heard only by his friend. After getting a "Uhm?" to indicate the other was listening, Pikachu kept on. ‒ How do you really feel about Aura? I know that after it was unlocked in Rota you started tapping a bit into it unconsciously, but now being a Riolu and actively using it, it can't be easy for you. Are you okay?

The pause and slight squeeze that followed were a good sign, because they meant Ash was seriously giving it a thought instead of dismissing it outright.

‒ …Yeah, it's not easy, but I'm focusing on the good things for now. With so many things still at stake, I can't waver. ‒ Ash buried his muzzle in the yellow fur. ‒ But don't worry, I'm still not at the edge of a panic attack, I'll warn you when it's the case. ‒ There was dry humor in his whisper. ‒ We'll get back at this either when I'll have a bad nightmare or if I'll manage to evolve. That can of Wurmple will be funny to open.

‒ Yeeeeah, I know what you mean. ‒ Pikachu sighed, turning and gripping with both paws locks of fur from the ex-human chest. ‒ Let's hope for the best for now, then. I'll hold on your word for the panic attacks, though.

‒ Aye aye. ‒ Pikachu felt his trainer smile in mock exasperation above him, so he nuzzled him again in retaliation.

The six enjoyed the evening in relax that way, until just before dinnertime someone knocked at their door.

B~OwO~F

Lizard looked up from the book Aso had provided him after the dust bath to glance at the door, puzzled. Similarly, the girls did the same from where they had migrated to consult the Pokédex (since they were the only ones from the Rescue teams to read that written language) and Poccha from his crossed wings where he had been resting. Ash's and Pikachu's ears twitched, but only the latter raised his head.

‒ I think it's Palinuro. ‒ The Riolu said confused, finally deciding to sit up along with his partner.

Intrigued, Lizard discarded gently the book on Fire Types on the futon and stood up to reach the door, opening it. And once again, Aura didn't lie. ‒ Palinuro, how can I help you?

The Floatzel looked at the Charmander and the other five behind him with a passing glance before answering: ‒ Lady Hekla desired to invite all of you to our diner. It's my duty to escort you there.

‒ It would be a honor. ‒ The male Fire Type agreed after throwing an inquisitive look at Fang, who had nodded.

The six followed the weasel-otter 'mon to a separate room of the inn, bigger than the entrance hall, where a modest banquet lied on a table before the Entei at the head.

‒ I wanted to thank you again for the success of your mission. ‒ The Legendary declared with the hint of a smile. ‒ Moreover, I feel the need to know you better, so please join us at our feast.

Encouraged by her words, the dimensional-travelers joined them and, after the traditional thanks, they started to dig in. The chats during the buffet were more relaxed than the ones inside the dungeon and they had more time to discuss the info they had on their kidnapping and the previous encounter with the Shadows, along with how both battles with Aparctias had gone.

No new info were given on their kidnapper since Lady Hekla had heard less than her brother about Palkia's underlings, so they were out of luck in that department. However, she didn't spare details about her sister.

As the Entei had her inn and nursery for orphaned (and not) eggs, Lady Veena was the director of an orphanage and school. She was stern but kind, righteous but ruthless against whoever and whatever threatened her family. Moreover, the Raikou had recently lamented the lack of trustworthy Teams to assign her Embleteora to free herself from the shackles of the dungeon of Scogliera Calcedonio while her duty (her acquired family) was out of there. Therefore, they could expect a challenge from Lady Veena like they did from Lady Hekla, but after that, she would yield her stone easily.

(Mentally both Fire Type team members planned to search for Wacan Berries for their partners, just in case the dungeon was filled with Electric Types Shadows.)

The dinner was wrapped up by a toast with Moo-moo Milk to wish good luck to the six on their venture. Everyone retired after that and went straight to bed, most falling asleep as soon as they touched the futon.

The morning after was pleasantly soft and calm and Lizard kind of wished that every day could be like that… until Pikachu lightly shocked Ash because he refused to get up.

‒ Why did you do that! ‒ Poccha exclaimed shocked.

‒ Don't mind us, this is normal. ‒ The Mouse Pokémon dismissed casually as the Riolu just as casually shook off the lingering sparks that had made his fur stand up.

‒ Yeah, no need to worry Poccha, it was just a jolt, Pikachu had shocked me harder. ‒ Ash stretched without a worry in the world.

‒ While you were still human? ‒ Fang sounded as horrified as Rush. He nodded, blinking innocently, causing her to blurt. ‒ How are you even alive?

‒ Aura, probably. ‒ He shrugged. ‒ When in doubt blame Aura.

‒ Ah. ‒ The Big Jaw Pokémon commented dryly, then turned around and retrieved the team bag, probably trying to forget about the exchange. Lizard could hardly blame her, it had been weird.

‒ Okay, ready to go! ‒ Pikachu cheered when everybody had retrieved their luggage.

The six got out the room and met Aso at the counter of the inn. She smiled at their arrival and signed for them to wait as she called the Esquires.

Marsili had found… and original way to travel around dry land, i.e. a balloon that moved forward with the air moved by the caudal fin. The harness fit pretty snuggly around the fish, so it was a tested system. Palinuro accompanied him with three letters in paw.

‒ Explorers, I want to thank you again for your assistance. ‒ The Seaking began. ‒ So my colleague will bestow you there letters.

The Floatzel held up the first. ‒ This is for Lady Veena. It's your recommendation. ‒ Fang stepped forward and accepted it. ‒ This is for Lady Exélixi. ‒ This time Ash tok it, since he already had the other. ‒ And these are the instruction to safely reach Scogliera Calcedonio. There aren't dungeon on that path, but be careful: unlike the road from here to Lord Aparctias, the way to Lady Veena is populated. Pokémon could be territorial in times like this, so if you state your business clearly, there shouldn't be too many issues. Being on a mission from a Knight generates respect, usually.

‒ Thank you for your hospitality and help. We'll do everything in our power to live up to your expectations. ‒ Lizard reassured, patting his bow where he had stored Lady Hekla's Embleteora. The Esquires nodded in response and sent off the six along with Aso and Teide (who had arrived just in time).

The two teams and their tagalongs waved at everyone as they marched off on the main path, ready to face another challenge to get back home.


Do you wanna save the game?

►YES

NO

...φ

SAVED.


Mum, suffix added because Pikachu considers Delia a second mother.


A/N. It was a bit of a filler-y chapter (unworthy of Mewtwo's birthday and update in general), but I felt like showing off some TLC with trivia I looked up on real world animals, I hope you enjoyed it anyway!

[…This was supposed to come out last year on the anniversary of this fanfiction, but I got a new job around that period, so I had to spend there as long as I could to learn and earn my spot… (╥﹏╥) Plus I couldn't get a new laptop so I had to use the big ass-one that kills my muse very quickly, so I'm sorry for the delay. (_ _)]

About the DLCs: I'm farming the Dynamax Adventures like there's no tomorrow, up to now I got only 4 shiny legendaries, but I won't give up! The best thing out of this type of "minigame" is playing with the others, even if sometimes they derp and get the wrong paths for the counters against the legendary… xD.

Which Tower did you choose in the Isle of Armor? I went to the Water one because its style reminded me of Silver Fang in One Punch Man plus it inspired me with its elegant and fluid movements!

Which Steed did you choose in the Crown Tundra? I checked both of them (saving before the cinematic to decide), then went with the Shaderoot Carrot because that Pokémon got out from a dream, it's so gorgeous!

Anyway, I joined Tumblr too! I did that because I wanted to follow some comic authors that otherwise I would have lost to the internet stream, but at the same time I can do self-promotion, so it's a win-win! In the near future (maybe even today) I'll start to publish my stories on Ao3 too, so if you have an account there, feel to check them.

So! Next time comes one of the parts I was waiting for and I had already partly written on paper, so I'll try to publish it on the Pokémon Day (i.e. 27th February), wish me good luck! (Will they announce a DPPl remake that day? We can only cross our fingers… (_))

Thank you for all your follows, favs and reviews, they were so many! I. was. So. MOVED!

I would have cried tears of joy if I was physically able to, so thank youuuuu!O(≧▽≦)O

Hope to respect my deadline, type ya soon!

[ptl: Thank you for leaving all those reviews, feedback is what I feed on, so they uplifted me!

Ch.12 rew._ I wonder… which of the three are you referring to? The "floating pokémon", the "larger tailed pokémon" or the Voice?

Ch.14 rew._ Indeed we do! Sinnoh has so much potential with the more powerful graphic processor of the Switch, I just wonder (if they really do the remake) would they add something "more" as they did for ORAS (i.e. new mega evolutions and Episode Delta)? I would love to see something Arceus-related, since we missed the Sky Flute event…

Ch.15 rew._ Right on the money! Ash is a Pokémon trainer at the very core, independently from his shape or memories, and I dislike how they always "reset" him and Pikachu at the start of every region (sans Johto). Let him grow up a bit at least! Sure, his temperament and mannerism changed from the first season, so why not his experience? Sorry for the rant, this aspect of the anime always triggers my anger point xD.

"Ansem Patented"! I adore that reference! Anyway, you'll see my follower, the count of the fallen will probably show itself once they reach Torre Basalto or the Campi Elisi, depending where it will fit better.

Thank you again for your reviews! Hope you liked this chapter too!

Supermath33: You lost me. I'm sorry, what were you trying to tell me? ಠ_

DZ13: Thank you for reading and reviewing this! I'm glad you like Fang, Lizard, Rush and Poccha, I tried to maintain them as close as the original gameplays adding a bit of a spin (like how Lizard is a Dragon fanboy and hates puns).

Sorry about the slow pace and slower updates, but if the characters and the events don't speak and develop naturally, I feel dissatisfied with them and the first step for a good story is to be liked by its author (at least that's my philosophy).

Thank you for your encouraging words, now that my life has a more stabile routine I'll try to write more and hope for the best! (•̀o•́)]