The Reason I Smile

We quickly bid Kōki goodbye before resuming the quest. Mizuki led us this time with her laptop. After an hour or so of intense walking and trying to avoid dangerous zones and Pokemon, we decided to take a break.

"Alright so let's see we have five Sitrus Berries and seven Cheri Berries," I said. "But there are six of us here."

"I ain't giving up my share, that's for sure!" Eleanor complained.

"How about we share big bro?"

While Val's generosity is usually touching, being in an unknown land made me hesitant about agreeing. I don't want to see Val in trouble or hurt due to a poor choice.

"Val, keep your berry to yourself," I insisted. "You're still young and need to get all your nutrients."

"You need yours as well!" Val protested.

"Val, please don't argue! I know what's best for us, I promise!"

Val did not reply as they went to examine their berry, trying to contain their emotions.

"Hey, I don't mean to get worked up..."

"It's okay big bro, I understand," Val interrupted.

It's tough for me to contain my impatience and impulse. But I just don't know how else I can become strong enough to face my father. Thinking about it, in a way being in this unknown world is a blessing in disguise. That means I can spend more time with Val. I must treasure every moment of this.

"Jun you big loser, stop daydreaming!" Mizuki demanded. "We're done with our break, let's get going! Sheesh!"

"Alright alright Mizuki! What's your damn problem?"

"My damn problem is you're a big loser Jun!"

"Why you little!" I insulted as I tried to get closer, only to have Val hold my hand and frown. I need to control myself, I can't be a reason why Val is upset.

After a long time of uneventful events, we encountered two mouse-like Pokemon from a distance. Both have white bodies, one has red + patterns throughout its body, while the other has blue - patterns throughout its body.

"Aw look they're so adorable!" Val giggled.

"Val, keep it down," I commanded. "Let's make sure they don't spot us."

"Oops my bad, sorry."

While we all tried to be more sneaky after spotting the two Pokemon, Eleanor, unfortunately, ended up exposing us with her screaming.

"Ew is that sand in my shoes? Ew ew ew!"

The two Pokemon noticed us from a distance as they began to charge electricity and rushed toward us!

As we all picked up our pace, Val tripped on a rock scrapping their right arm on the dry tough ground.

As Val began to cry in pain, I stopped for a moment to try to rescue Val.

"No big bro, forget about me!" Val protested as I tried to rescue them. "You should take care of yourself first!"

"What would you say that Val?" I asked crying and in confusion. "I promised mother and you, we'll be together again! I ain't breaking it!" I screeched as I picked them up carrying them. "As long as I'm alive, we're not going to be separated again!"

Without even thinking I just ran the first path I could see, a different path from where everyone else is. I just can't afford to hesitate at all.

The further away I got away from the two Pokemon, the more of a tingling sensation I feel in my arms and legs.

"I can't feel my arms and legs!" Val complained.

After taking a while to realize the situation at hand, a powerful electrical discharge hit both of us.

My loud scream got mellowed down by Val's scream.

"Val, Val! Can you hear me? Please tell me you're alright!" I cried slowly losing consciousness.

No, it can't end like this. I still haven't fulfilled my goal to beat up my dad, still haven't fulfilled my goal for Val and me to become a family again. It can't end like this! With my eyes closed and unable to feel a thing, flashbacks rushed into my head.

"No Viktor, you will not enter Val's room with a weapon in your hand!" My mother exclaimed as she stood up to my father.

"Shut up and get out of my way!" He demanded, slapping my mother across the face. "I will not let you raise my baby boy as a girl!"

"Mommy no!" Val cried as they tried to go downstairs to comfort my mother, while I tried to restrain them.

"Val, please listen to me!" I begged. "Go into your room and hide! I'll protect you!"

Before Val could protest, I looked Val in the eyes which signified that I will protect Val no matter what. Val nodded as they ran into their room, hiding under the bed.

My father got upstairs as he demanded that I get out of his way.

"No Viktor, I won't get out of the way! If you want to get to Val, you're going to have to fight me first!"

"Fight you?" He chuckled. "Don't make me laugh!" He screeched as he violently pushed me aside, causing me to hit the wall hard. "You'll never be strong enough to fight me!"

Despite all the anger I had inside of me, all I did was cry next to the wall, while Val's screams echoed into the room.

"Big brother please help me!" Val pleaded while crying and begging my dad to stop ripping apart their dolls and stuffed animals.

I embraced my fears as I went to Val's room running full speed straight into my father, tackling him to the ground. Val quickly rushed to my side, hiding behind me. When my father got up, we noticed the scissors he used pierced his chest, causing him to bleed.

"Father I didn't mean to!" I gasped in shock and with minor guilt.

"Daddy, are you okay?" Val asked still in tears, as they went to comfort him.

Without saying a word, my father grabbed Val's hair and began to cut it off!

"This is for your own good! I'm going to make you a man Val! You're going to thank me as you get older!"

Even when my mother arrived to help me, the two of us couldn't stop my father from cutting Val's hair, or from traumatizing us that day.

"Big brother, big brother!" Val screamed. "Please wake up! We're safe and sound I promise!"

"Where, where am I?" I questioned barely able to open my eyes. "What just happened?"

As I slowly open my eyes, I witness Val and Ralts kneeling beside me, while Mizuki and Eleanor are in the distance.

Without a word, Val gave me a lifeforce-shattering hug, crying.

"I was so worried!" Val cried. "I thought you were gone! We couldn't feel a single pulse or breath coming from you!"

I got up and hugged Val tightly comforting Val, as Val slowly stopped crying.

"Listen, I'm fine don't worry about me. Just tell me how did we escape those two Pokemon? Are you fine?"

"After the two of you were hit by a powerful discharge," Ralts said, "Jigglypuff and I managed to chase the Minun and Plusle away. Still, both of you were in critical condition. Mizuki quickly rushed to your side to make sure both of you had access to a Cheri Berry."

"It's actually a miracle," Mizuki said while walking toward us. "My readings told me that the amp was enough to kill any human being, so I'm shocked that y'all both survived!"

Guilt went down my spine as all I can think of is my recklessness was what caused this problem to begin with. If only I had actually used my brain instead of just acting on impulse!

"Please don't cry big bro," Val pleaded. "We're safe now!"

"I can't forgive myself for my stupidity!"

"Jun, stop complaining seriously!" Mizuki demanded. "Like I get it, you did something stupid, but what's important is we move forward. Come on, we cannot just stay here forever."

I nodded as I quickly got up.

"Alright everyone, follow me!" Mizuki commanded. "Yes, you as well Smellanor! Stop dozing off, sheesh!"

We decided to take another break after walking for who knows how long. Thankfully no encounters with a Pokemon directly. We were able to avoid all the Pokemon we saw from the distance.

"Is there anywhere where we can find water?" I questioned. "I'm super thirsty right now!"

"You can have the rest of my berry if you're thirsty big bro."

"Val, what did I tell you about the berry? Keep it to yourself! You need all the energy."

Val's expression quickly changed to a pleading face trying to use their cute charms to convince me to agree. Usually, I'd have given in, except not this time.

"No it's yours," I said closing Val's hand on the berry.

"Please big bro, stop being so stubborn! What if you get hurt? You also need your energy!"

"No Val, I told you that berry is yours and that's final! No arguing about it!"

Val got up and ran away crying, causing me to chase them, with Mizuki protesting.

"You idiots! You'll just get yourselves into the same situation again!"

As I caught up to Val, Val instantly stopped crying as we both witness an oasis in front of us.

"Am I dreaming?" I questioned right before Mizuki smacked me in the back of my head. "Hey, that hurt you little!"

"You're so lame!" She chuckled. "Thank goodness this entire area is safe. My readings tell me that the water area is also safe."

I let out a huge cheer before diving into the water, only to hit my head on the ground since the water is shallow.

"Be careful big bro!"

"My bad Val, but I'm okay I promise!"

Ralts and Jigglypuff rushed into the water first, as everyone else took off their shoes and socks before rushing in.

While indulging in the abundant water in front of us, Val interrupted me to get my attention as Val sees two Pokemon in the distance.

"Everyone I think we should hide!" I recommended as I ran out of the pond. "We cannot let those Pokemon find us!"

Everyone soundly agreed with me as we all took cover hiding behind the nearby rocks. As everyone remains completely out of view from the Pokemon, I took occasional peeks to see if the Pokemon went away or not. To my horror, they came closer to us. To make matters worse, they started to make static buzzing noises torturing my eardrums. Observing the situation, Val and Eleanor are both showing signs of wanting to scream, so I made sure to cover both of their mouths. Big mistake, since Eleanor bit my right hand screaming.

"Get away from me you creep!" She screamed, attracting the two Pokemon's attention, as they discovered us.

"Nice going you spoiled princess!" I scolded her. "Thanks to you, we're all going to be killed!"

"Oh no, are there some dangerous Pokemon we have to be aware of?" The two Pokemon questioned with a loud buzzing. "We two cannot fight in this state!"

The fact they didn't attack us instantly and stated how they're unable to fight made me less defensive. Still, I urged the others to get away from there as soon as possible. Of course, Val didn't listen.

"Aw, you poor thing!" Val sympathized as they got closer to the Pokemon. "Is there any way I can help you two?"

"As a matter of fact, there is!" The Pokemon replied in unison.

"Both of us are Magnemites," Magnemite #1 said. "Unfortunately, somehow we both got stuck to each other. There aren't enough Magnemites to form a Magneton either, so not only is this aesthetically displeasing, it hinders our ability to move, and defend ourselves."

Despite my protesting, Val ignored my commands and hugged both Magnemites, trying to comfort and soothe them. I mean Val's sweet and all, but the constant wanting to hug everything cute is really starting to concern me. Besides, it's just two magnets with eyes! How are they even cute?

"I actually have a plan," Mizuki said. "I will need your pants though Jun."

"I'm sorry WHAT?" I questioned ferociously with disgust.

"Sorry, it's the only way I can create a rope long enough to help pull these two Magnemites apart."

It had just occurred to me, that I'm the only one wearing a long pair of pants, as Val and Eleanor are both wearing a dress, while Mizuki is wearing a pair of shorts.

"You have got to be joking," I complained.

"You think I want to use your disgusting pants Jun? Give me a break."

"Ugh ALRIGHT!" I moaned while taking off my pants and handing them over to her.

Eleanor burst out laughing at my underwear, while Val is standing there in shock and unable to say a word.

"So I actually stole this pair of scissors from Mimi's bag," Mizuki smirked. "Don't tell him of course. I plan to secretly cut his hair in the middle of the night, hehe. Now I'm going to just cut up your pants and use it to create two ropes attached to each Magnemite."

While I do like her plan, I just don't feel like our ropes would be strong enough to break them apart. They both look super sturdy.

"Hey Mizuki, I…"

"Oh to answer your question, you see those rocks by the two cliffs facing each other? Do you also see how there are bigger rocks on top of each cliff? We're going to make sure both Magnemites are stationed in between those cliffs. We'll tie each rope to a smaller slab rock nailed to the ground. That way when we're on top of the cliff, we'll be able to push those bigger rocks down to trigger the ropes, effectively pulling both Magnemites apart."

I still don't know how she knew I was about to ask that exact question. Wow, she scares me. I simply have no words since I'm astonished

"Kiki, there's a few things on my mind," Val replied.

"Spill it out, Val."

"Well, firstly, I don't think two thin ropes made from a pair of pants are going to withstand that much pressure. The pressure from the two rocks will just rip apart the rope. Secondly, the only way we can even get up there is if Ralts teleports us. I don't want to risk Ralts using up so much energy."

Mizuki did not reply, as you can tell she's trembling with anger and irritation. It seems she can't take it that someone else outsmarted her.

"We're going to do this even if y'all protest! There's no other choice!"

Without another word I nodded, noticing the sadness on both Val and Eleanor's faces.

"Big sis, I'll be fine, I promise."

Val gave Ralts a huge hug, before helping Mizuki tie one of the ropes to one of the Magnemites, while I did the same with Eleanor to the other Magnemite. We quickly pinned two slabs of rock deep into the ground. Once we were done, Ralts teleported us to the top of the cliffs.

"Alright, ready in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1!" Mizuki commanded as we all pushed the rocks down.

Just as I feared, the ropes got snapped the moment our rocks hit the slabs.

"See Mizuki, your plan backfired!" I scolded.

"Well, what else was I supposed to do? Like your thick neanderthal skull can come up with a better plan!"

"Stop fighting you two, please!" Val cried and begged.

Without another word, Ralts teleported us all back down on the ground.

"I'm so sorry," Val told the two Magnemites while trying to comfort them. "I don't know what else to do."

"It's not your fault," Magnemite #1 replied. "If I may, I believe I saw a Cheri Berry in your bag. Cheri Berries can help us detach. If that is indeed a Cheri Berry, then it's a miracle!"

"Oh yes, we do have Cheri Berries!" Val exclaimed as they went to pick out two Cheri Berries from Mizuki's bag, before feeding one to each Magnemite.

"Thank you so much, young child!" The Magnemites cheered in unison.

"Aw, of course, I'm just so glad that you two can move freely now!" Val cheered while hugging both Magnemites yet again.

"Wait so this entire time, we could have just used those berries?" I questioned in fury. "So I had to lose my pants for absolutely nothing! What the heck Magnemites, you could have told us you know? Now I've lost my favourite pants for nothing! Argh!"

"I'm sorry," Magnemite #1 replied. "We didn't realize you had Cheri Berries."

"Big bro, things are resolved. Let's not get angry alright?"

Without another word, I slowly calmed myself down. At least we managed to resolve the issue at hand.

"May I know the names of the two girls who helped us?" Magnemite #2 asked.

"Oh, are you talking about us?" Val questioned. "Well, my name is Val. This is my friend Mizuki, my friend Eleanor, and my brother Jun. We all helped you, so I'm not sure who exactly you're talking about."

"Oh, I meant you and Mizuki!" Magnemite #2 replied. "Mizuki was the one who came up with a plan to rescue us, albeit it failed. You comforted us the entire way and ultimately brought us the Cheri Berries. So may I ask if I can be one of your partners?"

The Magnemite asking to join us shocked everyone at first. Slowly though Val and Mizuki's expressions changed to a very excited expressions.

"We'd love to have you on our team!" Val cheered. "Who do you choose to be your partner?"

"Hmm, that's difficult. Mizuki came up with the plan, but your empathy is making this a hard decision."

"How about both of you join?" Val asked.

"Oh, I appreciate the offer," Magnemite #1 replied. "However, I prefer to stay here on my own, my apologies."

"Oh that's alright," Val giggled. "Okay, then I suggest your friend choose Kiki! I already have my partner Ralts and I'd love to have them as a partner, but Kiki deserves to have a partner as well."

Mizuki started blushing but remains speechless.

"Very well, I will choose Mizuki then! Thank you for welcoming me on the team!"

"Thank you again for saving my friend and me," Magnemite #1 said. "I wish all of you the best of luck in your future endeavours!"

"Are you sure?" Val questioned all sad and depressed. "I really hope you can join us. The more company the better."

"I really appreciate the offer, but I've always preferred solitude. The only reason I even got stuck to my friend here, is because I came out of my comfort zone to try to help him find a Thunder Stone. Well, we accidentally got too close to a magnetic field and thus we got stuck together."

"Wait did you mention a Thunder Stone?" I questioned interrupting Magnemite #1.

"Yes, why?"

"That's what we're trying to find!"

"May I ask why?"

Truth is, I'm scared of telling him why we want to find the Thunder Stone. I don't know how Cinderace will react if I tell others he instructed us.

"Um, it's just because we need it to…" I replied nervously.

"It's because some idiot named Cinderace told us to fetch it," Mizuki interrupted. "If we don't find it, he'll kill us!"

Oh, Mizuki just had to blow our cover. Well, I'm going to prepare for the worst. Magnemite #1 remains silent with his one eye wide open, clearly showing signs of unease.

"Oh no, that's terrible!" Magnemite #1 gasped. "You know what, I will help you find the Thunder Stone! We have a rough idea of where it is. Just follow us!"

Well, I'm just glad he wants to help us, still, I'm just scared of what would happen to all of us if we fail.

"Are you sure Magnemite?" I questioned. "What if we don't succeed and Cinderace punishes you as well?"

"Then so be it! You helped save us, it's only in our best interest to repay the debt!"

"Aw, you owe us nothing!" Val assured.

"I insist," Magnemite #1 replied.

Without another word, I nodded as we began to take off. Along the way, Mizuki's laptop attracted the attention of both Magnemites, causing them to daze off in awe.

"I've never seen such a machine before!" Magnemite #2 exclaimed. "What is it?"

"Oh this is called a laptop," Mizuki replied. "It's a machine that's portable and allows you to utilize many different functions. Like right now I'm using an app to determine how safe a location is for us, lest we would be electrocuted."

"My my that is impressive! We have machines that can perform far more advanced functions, but none of them are portable. Also, not just anyone can access them."

"Oh cool!" Mizuki exclaimed. "That makes sense, I personally believe technology shouldn't be used by just anyone. Only the right people should use it."

A jolt of electricity flew right by us, interrupting our convo, yet there's nothing near us. That is until took a peek above me! Right above us lies a weird eel-like Pokemon with a huge mouth full of sharp teeth. It shot another jolt of electricity toward us, only for both Magnemites to stand directly in the attack.

"Is everyone okay?" Both Magnemites asked. "We're Electric-types ourselves, so we can take this Eelektrik's attack with no issues. Now watch as we drive this Eelektrik away, Sonic Boom!"

Both Magnemites started to spin rapidly before firing off a shock wave, causing the Eelektrik to flee away yelping in pain.

"Oh my, that's so cool!" Mizuki cheered.

"As long as we're here," Magnemite #2 said, "you'll be safe from other Electric-types."

"I'm so glad to have met both of you," Val said. "I just wish both of you can be part of our team. But I understand why and I respect your opinion."

Without another word, both Magnemites let out a cheerful expression with their eyes closed, while continuing to lead us. We decided to take another break after walking for a long time. On our break, Mizuki's curiosity made her ask why the Magnemites are looking for a Thunder Stone.

"Magnemites can evolve into Magnetons and then into a Magnezone with the use of a Thunder Stone," Magnemite #1 replied. "It's also possible to evolve into a Magnezone in a very strong magnetic field, but there aren't any nearby, so we'd rather have a Thunder Stone."

Before any of us could reply, loud static noises began to surround the place. Without a word, I take a peek at our surroundings and to my horror, both Ralts and Jigglypuff are hit by a strong surge of electricity. Val as usual is panicking and crying over Ralts safety, yet to my surprise for the first time in my life, Eleanor also showed the exact same feelings!

"Everyone, stand back!" Both Magnemites commanded in unison, as they begin to prepare another Sonic Boom attack.

The Sonic Boom attack quickly drove away the two Pokemon that attacked us. With the area safe now, Val and Eleanor each brought a Cheri Berry to feed to their Pokemon, along with sharing the rest of their Sitrus Berries with their Pokemon. Fear and worry cloud my mind, as with only one Cheri Berry left and no more Sitrus Berries left. What if Val gets hurt? I don't want to ruin this selfless and caring moment of Val's, yet, I simply can't get rid of these depressive thoughts.

"I'm so sorry everyone had to experience that," Magnemite #1 said. "The further you go down in this cave, the stronger and more aggressive the Pokemon are."

"We're down to our last Cheri Berry though," Mizuki panicked. "Please tell me we're close to a possible Thunder Stone!"

Both Magnemites remain silent, not a good look for us. The long moment of silence is finally broken, when Magnemite #2 decides to speak.

"My gut feeling tells me that there should be a Thunder Stone near a strong electrical field. I can sense one nearby."

"You don't even have a gut though!" Mizuki complained. "I'm shocked that artificial Pokemon like you would even rely on emotions and feelings. I thought you'd rely on just pure logic."

Mizuki's remarks instantly soured both Magnemites, causing them to slowly turn away from us.

"I'm so sorry!" Val exclaimed. "Kiki can be like that sometimes! Please understand she didn't mean it!"

"Unless she confirms it herself, forget us ever being a team!" Magnemite #2 yelled. "Good riddance to all of you!"

"Geez, I wouldn't want a partner that's so sensitive anyways," Mizuki wheezed.

"My god Mizuki!" I scolded. "Like can't you just admit you did something wrong for once in your life? Just apologize and be sincere about it!"

"Nah, what I said is the truth," she replied.

"Ugh, you are the most arrogant person I've ever met!" I screamed slamming my fist on the ground.

Stupid of me to let my anger get the best of me yet again, as I started to yelp in pain. As Val tries to comfort me, I notice both Magnemites are nowhere to be found.

"Nice going Mizuki!" I scolded. "I really hate you, you know that?"

"The feeling is mutual!"

"Everyone, please just stop!" Val begged. "There's only one path in front of us, so let's just calm down and think this through! If we are to make up with the Magnemites and complete this task, we have to stop arguing and move forward."

Val's wisdom calmed me down for sure. What can I do without their voice of reason? Even Mizuki calmed down and agreed.

"Wait before we all go, can we just let Jigglypuff rest a little more?" Eleanor asked very politely. "She's still hurt."

"Of course Ella!" Val exclaimed. "Let her rest as much as she needs."

Could Eleanor actually be changing her ways to become a nicer person?

"Ew get away from me you hick!" Eleanor demanded when I sat near her.

Well looks like it's too good to be true, she's still too similar. Still, seeing her care about someone other than herself for once feels good. It's progress. Slowly, Jiggly regains her consciousness, sending a sigh of relief down our spines. Finally, we all agreed it's time to get going again. A few minutes of walking lead us to the edge of a cliff!

The surrounding is majestic and dazing! Beneath us lies a field of colourful gems. There has to be a Thunder Stone among them!

However, the good news ends there. To my horror, I witness both Magnemites collapse on the ground unconscious just right beneath us. Next to them is this large yellow Pokemon with black stripes that looks like an oni, wearing tiger fur. It let out a loud roar and discharged large amounts of electricity.

"Oh no, what are going to do now?" Val questioned quietly while showing immense fear.

"There has to be a way to rescue the Magnemites," I replied. "Still even if we do and somehow drive that frightening Pokemon away, what if we can't find a Thunder Stone?"

"Jun, look in front of you," Mizuki told me. "Just a little to the upper right of the Magnemites. Do you see that green gem with a yellow electricity symbol? That's bound to be a Thunder Stone!"

"Aw, you're so smart, Kiki!" Val complimented. "Still how will we distract that Pokemon?"

Silence hit the room, as we all try to find a solution. Eleanor suddenly took a step backwards and tripped on a rock, presenting us with the right solution. There is an abundance of small rocks near us!

"Alright, I got a plan!" I instructed. "Val, Eleanor, and Jigglypuff stay up here and use the rocks to distract the menacing Pokemon. Ralts and Mizuki, come with me as we grab the Thunder Stone and then teleport away with the Magnemites."

"Aw big bro, I want to come with you."

"I'm sorry Val, it'll be too dangerous. Please just listen to me. I know what's best."

Without a word, Val nodded as Val, Eleanor, and Jigglypuff all began to prepare the rocks they need to bombard the Pokemon. Mizuki, Ralts, and I slowly made our way down the cliff."

To our luck, the Pokemon is stupid and fled in anger thanks to the rocks being thrown at it. Mizuki quickly grabbed the Thunder Stone, as she made her way to the Magnemites.

"Alright, Ralts do your thing!" I commanded.

Before Ralts can teleport us away, a jolt of electricity flew our way!

"Oh no, the Pokemon's back!" Val screamed. "Everyone please get out of there ASAP!"

Ralts remains dazed and shocked unable to move, probably due to shock from fear.

"Snap out of it Ralts, please!" Mizuki begged.

Ralts still remains in complete silence, just as both Magnemites regain their consciousness!

"Ugh, what happened?" Both question.

"There's no time to explain!" I yelled. "Ralts please teleport us away from here, please I beg of you!"

Still, Ralts remains silent. To make matters worse, the menacing Pokemon fired another electrical attack on us.

To my shock, Mizuki jumped directly in front of all of us, taking the entire brunt of the attack, collapsing to the ground, clearly paralyzed, if not outright killed by the attack!

Val and Eleanor's screams completely passed through me, as all I can think of is bringing Mizuki to safety. I started to carry Mizuki on my back as I commanded all of us to run. Both Magnemites start carrying the still-dazed Ralts. It wouldn't be safe for Val if I try to climb back up the cliff, so instead, I'm just running recklessly without a sense of direction, as the oni-like Pokemon chases us. Suddenly, a dead end!

"I'm really sorry for the fight!" Magnemite #1 cried. "We cannot deal with an Electabuzz. It knows Fighting-type moves. This is hopeless!"

Without any solutions, I broke down crying and regretting not being able to reunite our family.

"I'm so sorry mother! I'm so sorry Val!" I screamed at the top of my lungs.

I closed my eyes since my fate has pretty much been sealed. Still, I can't stop crying, maybe the tears will help soothe my soon-to-be death.

Embracing my final moments, I heard someone yell, "stop it this instant!" I open my eyes to witness a Pokemon teleport right in front of me and produce a surge of electricity. However this electricity didn't hurt me, in fact, it feels like it's slowly healing me! The Pokemon that appeared right in front of me has the appearance of a humanoid rooster. It has two dark beak-like hands, with a large yellow half-cone on both hands. It has an orange tail, along with an orange mohawk.

The Electabuzz in front of us is standing there in fear, shock, and unable to make a move.

"Leave these humans and Pokemon alone!" The Pokemon in front of me demanded the Electabuzz. "If you do not, there will be consequences!"

Without a word, the Electabuzz ran away at an alarming pace.

"Are you alright?" The Pokemon in front of me asked. "I'm terribly sorry that Cinderace sent you on a suicide mission."

Wait he knows Cinderace? Something tells me he must be in a high position if he knows Cinderace. While I desperately want to answer him, I'm still petrified by all the events that just transpired.

"It's alright if you do not wish to answer," he said. "Let me teleport you out of here safely. First, though, I will heal your Pokemon to full health."

He performed a dance, which instantly made Mizuki regain consciousness.

"Uh, where am I?" She questioned. "Wait who is this Pokemon in front of us? Ew, don't touch me Jun!" She complained while delivering me a few punches.

"Ugh, you're WELCOME!" I yelled sarcastically.

"Do not fear child," the Pokemon told Mizuki. "My name is Tapu Koko. I had just received word of Cinderace's suicide mission that he sent you. I want to commend you for being able to actually complete his mission. You've already gone through so much, so let me teleport all of you out of this cave."

Wait, Tapu Koko? The lesser guardian that Cinderace brought up? So we're face to face with someone of even higher authority than Cinderace? Thank goodness he's on our side!

"Ta, Tapu Koko?" Mizuki questioned still in a daze. "Thank you so much! Can you please teleport us back to the cliff first, our friends are there."

"Of course!" He replied while performing another dance, that instantly teleported us back to the cliff.

"Big bro!" Val exclaimed while giving me a huge hug. "I was so worried! I'm so glad you're all safe! You too Mizuki!" Val exclaimed hugging her.

While Val continues to comfort everyone that was just faced with the Electabuzz, including a now conscious and undazed Ralts, I notice Kōki, Mimi, and two unknown Pokemon right beside us!

"Jun are you alright?" Mimi questioned while hugging me. "I'm so sorry about what I did. Kōki and I made sure to come here as soon as we found my Togepi, who's now an angel-like Pokemon named Togetic. I promise to never let that happen again."

"The thing is, did Kōki and Val forgive you?" I asked. "That's what matters."

"Yes big bro, I forgive her. Mimi and Kōki came here shortly after Tapu Koko's appeared. They were both deeply concerned with the situation below. Still, I think I can vouch that they're relieved you're both okay. Mimi told me all about why she had her outburst and I totally understand and forgive her."

The world doesn't deserve someone as precious as Val, I swear. If Mimi said the same things to me, oh there's no way I'd forgive her. Heck, I'd probably have smacked her back then.

"Are you alright bro?" Kōki asked me. "What you did back down there was very brave."

"Yes, I'm alright bro. Thanks for knocking some sense into Mimi. Much appreciated!"

Kōki simply blushed without another word.

"I'm so sorry Jun," Ralts expressed. "I'm sorry for being petrified back there. I don't know what…"

"It's alright Ralts, that was the past. You've been a valuable team member overall, so I'm grateful."

"I do not mean to interrupt, but is everyone ready to get out of this cave?" Tapu Koko asked.

All of us nodded yes in unison, as Tapu Koko began to dance again, teleporting us out of the cave at the speed of light. Outside of the cave, Cinderace greeted us!

"I see you've brought me what I wanted," Cinderace smirked. "Looks like I don't need to deal with you for now!"

"Cinderace, enough of this nonsense!" Tapu Koko demanded. "Your little stunt nearly got all of these children and their Pokemon killed! How dare you?"

"Ta-Tapu Koko?" Cinderace questioned with horror on his face. "How-how did you get here? What are you doing here?"

"My question is why did you make these innocent children go on a suicide mission?"

"I-I-I did so to test if I can trust them! We've had so many invaders lately, I'm sure you understand, Master Tapu Koko!"

Master Tapu Koko? Oh, so that's how the vassals have to address their superiors.

"Do you really think these young children and their Pokemon actually pose a threat? In fact, I'm sure you're aware that this mission was a suicidal mission, which is why you sent them on it! Don't ever do this again Cinderace, do you understand? There will be consequences if you do so!"

"Yes sir! I'm so sorry sir! I've just been so worked up, so please forgive me. Say did you children fetch the Thunder Stone I requested?"

"Oh yes, here it is!" Mizuki exclaimed showing him the item.

"Young child!" Tapu Koko exclaimed. "That is yours to keep, do not give it to Cinderace! You have earned it with your valiant effort!"

"Forgive me for my actions," Cinderace begged. "I now trust that you are not invaders and have shown valour in these trying times. Farewell, I hope to see everyone again someday!"

Cinderace teleported away, as we all let out a sigh of relief. Cheering started to fill the room and I jumped up and down dancing like an idiot.

"Children, I know of this mansion near a small town known as Pokemon Square. No one resides there currently, so please help yourself and stay there in the meantime. Food, advanced heating and cooling, and clothing will all be provided at the mansion. Just tell me when you're ready and I will teleport you there."

"Oh my, a mansion?" Eleanor gasped. "Finally a place fit for a lady like me!"

Laughter filled the room, as Eleanor started blushing from embarrassment. As the laughter died down, both Magnemites began to speak.

"Thanks for helping my partner here find the Thunder Stone," Magnemite #1 said. "As I've said previously, I was only here to help him find the stone. I will now take my leave."

"I, on the other hand, am honoured to join your team!" Magnemite #2 exclaimed. "I will be Mizuki's partner. What you did back there to shield us from Electabuzz's attack, I will never forget that honourable act."

Magnemite #1 slowly began to leave the vicinity, with us all waving him goodbye. It feels so good to have met an all-powerful being that is benevolent. I can't wait to relax at our new place. Most importantly, I'm just glad Val is safe after all of this. This means we can still be a family once again!