Disclaimers, yadda yadda: If you don't know the routine by *now*, then try
reading with your eyes *open* for a change :D Nintendo and all of them own
pokemon, Mystic Mewtwo owns Ki and all other characters in her universe
from her fantastic story "Between Two Worlds", which she is letting me play
with (I *do* have her permission and blessing), and to mix in my own
character Sharie from "Of Moonlight Shadows and Echoes Past" (of course,
here that story did not happen). As before, Sharie is essentially the same
except for her eye color, altered to match Ki's for various reasons.
Enjoy.
Rated PG-13 for some language and mild sensuality (Mild, but with Ki and Mewtwo being who they are, oversensetive readers, turn your eyeballs away now).
Shadowed Reflections Ch. 3 By ZeoViolet
****
*Who are you, really?* Ki dared to whisper at last. The sudden knot in her stomach was too strong to bear as she stared at this stranger who eerily similar to her. *Are you Team Rocket, that you know that?*
*No,* Sharie responded gently, still using telepathy. Her first point would be to drive away any notion that she was a threat. *I know better than to wallow in such filth. Of that, I can assure you of. However,....* Here she hesistated, but knew it was in all their best interests that she not lie. *Others in my family shared a brief aquaintence with them before breaking off ties in disgust. My father still has aquaintences in their circle he still speaks with. I heard stories through them.*
Ki went paler. *Stories....*
"Stories I can see are very cruelly voiced, let's leave it at that," Sharie said softly, switiching back to speaking verbally. "What I see here is to me not the perverted situation they described it as. I do have eyes to see."
*What do you see?* Ki could not help but ask. She *had* to know. Her arms closed protectively over her daughter as she said this. She had already seen enough of people's disgusted reactions by now, and she was outright tired of screaming it wasn't true, it wasn't wrong!
"I can see a powerful bond between you and Mewtwo, permeating your very souls." Sharie's voice was still quiet and supportive, and no hint of disgust was showing, even in her eyes. "You even share a child. Such a bond cannot be wrong. That's all I need to know."
Ki's eyes glittered fiercely, for it was obvious how truthful Sharie was. Ki's heart pounded in gratitude; few ever reacted like that at first.
*Thank you,* she uttered in a low telepathic tone. *Thank you for understanding so quickly, when others have been so quick to condemn. You have no idea how much that means to me, and will mean to....* she trailed off, unable to finish.
Sharie smiled faintly. "I can understand how it is to be so different from others," she said quietly. "If our dear nurse felt it necessary to gab to you about me for whatever reason, she likely spilled what she knew. I do know she would not have without reason."
*Then your name *is* Sharie Triesta,* said Ki, rocking Aaryanna back and forth. The child issued a series of happy sqeaks and coos.
"Yes." Sharie answered simply.
Ki was silent for a moment, studying her.
*She looks similar to me,* Ki again observed to herself. *Even her eyes are identical to mine. But I can't sense her much. It is truly eerie. Is this what Nurse Joy meant? I'd have to see her for myself?*
For the moment, Ki decided she was trustworthy.
*My name is Ki,* she offered her name forth. *I hope I can trust you, Sharie.*
"I would never bring harm to you or your family. I'd say you've been dealt more than your fair share already." Sharie's eyes darkened as she said her next words. "In fact, I'd still fear for you, because of Team Rocket. I can tell you, however, that for now a cease-and-desist order concerning your disposal has been carried out. They're too afraid of you both now. It is certain Giovanni met his untimely end at your hands, if the word that reached my family is any indication."
*I was pregnant and he tried to kidnap me,* said Ki shortly.
"Then you were both defending yourselves." Sharie drew this conclusion quickly. Giovanni being who he had been, of this she had little doubt. "Giovanni had no children--thank our lucky stars--so his younger brother's taken over. He's afraid of you and does not wish to lose any more of his henchmen."
Sharie shrugged. "Let's divert from mention of Team Rocket. Conversation about them is too foul."
*Yes,* Ki agreed fully with that one. Aaryanna snuggled closer to her. "Mew."
Sharie smiled indulgently. She could not help it--the little Mewtwo touched her heart, where few had ever reached.
"She's so beautiful. Aaryanna? I've never heard of a name that fit more-- Holy Beauty. Inside and out. I enjoyed caring for her."
*Really?* asked Ki, the pounding in her head easing as her senses continued to clear. *Aaryanna cries if anybody but myself or Mewtwo holds her.*
Sharie smiled, reaching over to touch the blanket gently. The baby noticed and reached up a tiny hand to grasp her fingers, hard, while uttering a happy gurgle. It surprised Ki to see such a trusting move.
"She did at first," Sharie admitted, stroking the tiny fingers with her own. "She was terrified because of the attack. I sang to her a bit and she eventually calmed down. I am a pokemon doctor; I know how to handle newborn infants. When you did not wake up I had to feed her with a special formula I carry with me for baby pokemon. I hope you don't mind."
*It is still a first, her accepting you like that,* said Ki, seeing how clearly her daughter had been taken care of. She was cooing contentedly even now. *Although she's only nursed before now, you fed her. I do not know how to repay you for all you've done.*
"You owe me nothing. I did what was right."
Sharie hesistated, then picked up a scanner. "I must confess something," she admitted. "Your leg wound is healing now, but for a short while it bled pretty badly. I was afraid that I would have to take you to a hospital for a transfusion. I had to take a blood sample. I don't know if you know this, but your....blood...."
Sharie shrugged helplessly. "I ran it through both the scanners I have. Your blood is.....is...."
*I know of my heritage,* said Ki slowly, her cheeks flaming. *I know I am half mew. You do not need to beat around the bush.*
Sharie swallowed. "It's not my business. I noticed your sample exactly matched a skin sample from Mewtwo, and your pretty little daughter there. I was just confirming in my own mind what this all looked like to me, that she really was your daughter *and* his. Your....situation is not something one sees every day."
*No,* said Ki simply. The sudden pain in her eyes, and of desperate fear when she turned her gaze to Mewtwo, spoke volumes to Sharie.
"No," said Sharie. "But I can tell. she is no less precious to both of you because of it. You and he are no less in love with each other because of simple physical differences, either. How some people could be so stupidly blind...."
Ki's eyes shimmered. *I love him so much....I don't know what I'd do if....*
"I understand," said Sharie softly. "Your bond is a rare gift, made even more precious by the child you share."
Ki was suddenly even more alarmed as more of her memory came drifting back. *She's not the only one! We've got to get back! My other children--*
"What?" Sharie gasped. "You have others?"
*I had quintuplets a week and a half ago! This was only supposed to be a short outing with Aaryanna to give her some individual attention! Mew must be out of her mind with--*
"Quints!" Sharie echoed, truly startled. Her face went white. "You gave birth to five babies?"
*Yes!* Ki was close to panicking rather suddenly. *Mews give birth in litters, so it was of no real surprise to me or Mewtwo. Mew must be frantic with worry for us!*
"Is she caring for the other babies, then?" asked Sharie.
*Yes. She has formula enough for a couple of days, but she can't leave them alone to look for us. What must she be thinking?!*
Sharie reached out a hand and placed it on Ki's shoulder. "Calm down, Ki. Your name means Angel of Light in pokemon, doesn't it? Angels are serene, and your words are spreading shadows, instead of light, where they ought not to go. Wait until Mewtwo wakes up. I don't know where you live so I am unsure about telekenetically hauling him across the ocean right now."
Ki slumped, dejectedly. Aaryanna started to fuss.
"She's getting hungry again," Sharie remarked.
*Yes, that was kind of obvious,* said Ki rather sharply. A faint flash of hurt was seen in Sharie's eyes for an instant before it was gone.
Ki felt even worse. This kind girl had rescued her, and she'd acted upon her impuslive temper once again where it was not needed.
*I'm sorry,* she stated softly. *I am just so worried....*
"I understand." Sharie waved her hand in dismissal. "I can see that red- hot temper of yours. It is just your nature."
Ki removed Aaryanna from her blanket, putting it over her shoulder before she exposed herself. She tucked her daughter under the blanket and let her nurse. *Ow, I am sore. I've already missed two of their feedings.*
"No wonder," Sharie agreed shortly. "I have a feeling your mate will be awake soon. Mewtwo was created to be tough."
*How do you know that?* asked Ki, rather startled.
"I just know. I know all about him." Sharie went deadly pale as she admitted this.
*How? Have you met before by some sheer chance?* If he had, Ki reflected, he'd never mentioned it to her.
"No. I never saw him in the flesh before today."
Ki noticed Sharie had gone pale and there was....something, a turbulence in her eyes that should not be there. *Sharie? What is wrong?*
Sharie shivered, and swallowed. "You both have been used. Mewtwo's been lied to, treated like an object, everything. You do not deserve to have me lie to you. I don't want to lie to you. It would not be fair to you, regardless of the consequences to myself."
*Sharie, what on earth are you talking about?* Ki asked, feeling a new knot in the pit of her stomach. *What are you hiding that makes you so scared?*
"I have every right to be scared, Ki. I've personally done nothing to either of you, but both of you would have the right to loathe me anyways."
Ki was staring at her, wondering if she wasn't a little unstable at the moment. *Why would we loathe you? My stars, you've saved our lives! I'm in your debt, and Mewtwo is going to say the same thing once he awakens and finds you here. I am sure he'd want to.*
"No!" Sharie burst out. She shook her head fiercely for a moment. "You don't understand, Ki. I've never met him but I do know him inside and out. I never knew of his existence until after the destruction of the lab on New Island. I mean you no harm but with Mewtwo's reputation I do not expect he'll treat me kindly, not when he knows. But I can't hide this from him."
Ki was still trying to follow all this. *Who are you, then, that this is so awful?*
Sharie's eyes were full of fire and pain as she admitted the truth to Ki. "It is not right I lie to you. You've been lied to and manipulated enough. My name is Sharie Triesta, that you know. What you do not know is who my father and uncle were. My father is Dr. Donningan Triesta, and my Uncle is Dr. Fuji Triesta. They were the ones who created Mewtwo in the lab on New Island. They created him, Ki, and I am their daughter."
****
There were several tense moments of dead silence as Ki stared at Sharie in shock.
Sharie met her stare without wavering. The truth was blazing in her eyes; no liar could put up such a conviction, even a false one.
Now Ki understood why Sharie was so afraid.
*You knew this,* She whispered at last. *And yet, you risked your life to save us. Why?*
It was not the outburst Sharie had been expecting, and the startlement in her eyes proved it.
"It was only right. How could I not? Your lives were in danger. I was never told about Mewtwo's creation until he had almost killed my family on New Island. I wasn't there. They never told me because they know how I feel about pokemon, of capturing and using them. What's worse, they are both psychic humans; they should have known better. A lot of circumstances led up to their tainted alliance with Team Rocket."
Sharie shuddered violently. It was one of the few subjects that could get past her carefully controlled demeanor. "My cousin Amber had died. Later they told me they could bring her back, if they could prove how to bring back life through cloning. Giovanni got heard of this and offered to do it for them for free instead of them dipping into the family fourtunes. In return, he wanted Mewtwo created."
Sharie swallowed. "Da and my uncle Fuji were ravaged with grief over her death, as was I. But I had no idea that it affected especially my uncle Fuji so deeply that it would cloud their thinking. I would not wonder it was why they treated Mewtwo as they did, because they were only thinking of their own pain at the moment. They could not bring Amber back, and after they were pulled from the rubble, I made them give me any and all info on mewtwo."
Sharie clenched her hands into fists so hard her knuckles turned white with the effort. "I was angry at them for a long time for treating life as if were some disposable commodity for the use of humans only. I was even more upset when word reached me on how Giovanni was using Mewtwo. Like some plaything. I was more than happy for Mewtwo when he escaped, even though I was not sure at the time if the rumors of the so-called 'pervert' who left with him were true. Later..."
Sharie shuddered. "I was eventually able to forgive my family, but only after we had a long talk and they told me exactly why they had done it. They still had no right to act as if Mewtwo was nothing more than an experiment for the benefit of humans only, or that he was some machine or object for Giovanni's amusement. Gods, it's wrong! Don't people think I know that?! I can see how they feel, and I understand! It makes me so mad sometimes, to see humans so blind!"
Sharie was shaking hard from her violent outburst; Ki got the sudden feeling Sharie rarely let go of her temper. Again, such a reaction could not be faked. Sharie's eyes, her face, and her manner--hell, it was glowing from the depths of her very soul--she was telling the truth, and Ki sensed it very clearly.
"That's why," Sharie stammared. "It is why I ought to be hated by you both. I am tainted; bound by blood to those Mewtwo loathes the most. You are his mate; surely you've experienced many of the same emotions and would stand beside him on everything. I knew I had a choice whether to risk helping you, but I would not see you hurt. I accept my fate; at last I have one, odd as it may seem."
Sharie lapsed into silence then, her eyes staying locked with Ki's.
Poor Ki did not really know what to think; suddenly she was awhirl with many different emotions. Quietly, she withdrew Aaryanna from underneath the blanket. The baby had fallen asleep, strangely undisturbed by what was going on around her. Ki wrapped her up in her blanket and laid her beside her, her green eyes never leaving Sharie's matching ones.
Finally, she attempted to sort out her confused thoughts, directing her mental words to Sharie.
*I really don't know what to say,* she began uncertainly. *You are right; my first impulse would be to loathe all who are connected to those who hurt my Mewtwo so badly and almost destroyed his very soul. Your story matched much of what he has told me; he could hardly ever speak of it, and when he did the pain in his soul stabbed my own heart. Your story brings it back, all that painful memory. But--* She swallowed.
*I don't understand it. I feel so strange. I don't hate you; for some reason, I can't. In my life I've learned some lessons, Sharie, lessons that were learned the hard way and at a terrible price. What can I say? You might be their blood, but if your words are true, you're innocent.*
Ki shivered, and for a moment looked ashamed of herself. *There was a time I wanted to destroy the world at Mewtwo's side and remake it into one that accepted us; but we learned how wrong it was. On attempting to indeed take over the world we learned what a high price could be paid. Not everyone has a foul heart. I've found a few true friends in the most unexpected of places, and circumstances.*
"It can be those you least expect," Sharie breathed softly, her cheeks pinking. "I, too, have learned that."
Ki almost smiled at her. *With as much prejudice as we've faced, it's a difficult notion to live by. But if we can't forgive and act above those who hurt us, then we are no better, are we? They hurt and act for their own benefit, and it's easy to take on that notion as our own, for revenge. But it means we've changed nothing.*
Sharie's cheeks flushed and her eyes lowered. "I don't want them hurt," she whispered. "I love my family; they're the only ones whom I really have. If I must step into their place, Ki, then so be it. They've come to their senses but it does not change the past."
Ki swallowed. *They are not you. I already can see how different you are from those who'd hurt us. Otherwise you would not have taken the actions you have done today. You knew who we were, you did not have to involve yourself, yet you did. We'd be dead, and any risk to your family you might have felt would have been gone forever. But you have a soul; you've treated me as your equal and not condemned me because of my actions or Mewtwo's.*
Ki leaned down and brushed her fingers against her daughter's cheeks. The baby made some small murmuring sounds, but did not awaken. *Aaryanna's being alive at all is a true miracle. I've come to believe strongly in fate and miracles; each time Mewtwo and I have been threatened with seperation some miracle has happened that kept us together. If this is like those other times,* she graced Sharie with a true smile again, indicating that if anything had to be forgiven, it was already done. *Fate placed you in our path. You ought not suffer for it.*
"Would Mewtwo share your sentiments?" Sharie asked bitterly.
Ki's smile faded. *Even I do not know that for certain,* she answered in a low mental tone. *Despite what we've learned about life together, it's a deep rage within him. People failing to understand we belong together is a deep rage within both of us; but we've learned to deal with it the best we can. I do not believe you are a threat. I think fate favored us by putting you in our path so you could save our lives. I can still be with him, thanks to you. Besides, if Mewtwo or I have made any grave mistakes in our lives, our children ought not have to pay for them. The same should go for you. Again, that was a hard lesson learned, but in the end, it was learned well.*
"You have no idea how grateful I am to hear those words," Sharie swallowed, and for a moment, her eyes shimmered. "And I do hate to admit any weakness, but I am still afraid. Of his reaction. I have no inclination to hide the truth. There would have been no point. With the name Triesta and my looks, for I look like my father, he would have known eventually anyways."
Ki frowned. *Mewtwo would never do anything I did not want him to do, and the same on his feelings for me. We're too close for that. I do not want you hurt. If nothing else, he'll respect that.*
"Oh, no--do not put me in the middle of a situation that will cause you two to have a disagreement." Sharie held up a hand in protest. "I already told you I accepted my fate the instant I chose to help you. Besides, I am alone, and it's not like I'd be missed much anywhere--"
Ki's jaw dropped. Gods--was Sharie's opinion of herself that low? *How can you say that about yourself? That's not true; I can see it. Nurse Joy said you'd been badly treated but I'd never have imagined this badly. I like you and I tell you, I won't let it happen. No fight between Mewtwo or myself has to take place. We are so close that it would not take much to make him see what I see, and that is what I intend to do.*
Sharie flushed but did not say anything more.
Besides, she had no time. A faint moan issued from Mewtwo's throat as he began to stir.
****
It was like the nightmarish tendrils of a haunting dream trailed him to awakeness. He remembered a pain in his head, and Ki screaming. Aaryanna's loud wails of fright reached his ears. It all made his heart contract painfully, but he could move no more, only knew he was hurling downwards to the ocean waves far below them, knowing he had failed at protecting them from harm--
Ki noticed him stir, and Sharie saw the immediate depth of emotion that came into her unique green eyes.
"Go to him," She whispered. "If you want, I'll take Aaryanna while you do."
Ki nodded gratefully, gently transferring the sleeping baby to Sharie's willing arms.
The movement awoke Aaryanna, and she yawned and opened her eyes, aware she was being moved. But when she saw who was holding her, she only smiled and waved her tiny fingers, giving a small, soft coo.
*She really isn't crying,* marvelled Ki, smiling. *A baby Mewtwo would probably be the best indicator of a threat. If I had any doubts left, they're gone. She knows Sharie is not one.*
The instant Mewtwo came to awareness, he felt cool fingers grasp his hands. A familiar body slid in beside him, and the lingering nightmares were soothed by the essence his heart recognized. He was smiling even before he opened his eyes; he knew it was Ki.
*Welcome back, my love,* he heard softly. *I knew you would not leave me alone.*
*I'd rather burn for all eternity in Hades,* was his soft reply, his eyes blinking open. His heart was filled with absolute joy to see Ki's angelic, smiling face and sparkling eyes greeting him.
*Do you remember what happened?* she asked. *We made it. We're all right. And Aaryanna's nearby; she is all right, too.*
*That is the most important thing, Angel.* Without thinking, he sat up, Ki's arms supporting him. Also without thinking, he reached for her.
Their lips met in a candence born of pure joy and total relief. They were so grateful to be in each other's arms it was paradise.
Sharie, watching this, was caught completely off guard. Even though she had accepted their relationship and was happy for them, it was still startling to see something as new and different as what appeared to be a human and a pokemon kissing.
A fierce blush rose to her cheeks and she felt rooted to where she was standing on the grass. Their kissing was so passionate that she felt a weird sort of heat sweep through her body, almost like a pulse. Quickly she dropped her eyes; ashamed to have caught herself staring during such a private moment.
It was indeed true, then. This was love; and obviously at so deep a level it was impossible to deny the fact it was right. She was glad two individuals so like herself had found such happiness in this condemning world.
Ki gave a silent moan of rapture as Mewtwo's tongue slid past her lips to explore the secret recesses of her mouth. Heavens, but how she had been so afraid she'd never feel it again, not until they reunited in death! It was truly a miracle they were here at all; and her gratitude to fate and to any diety listening was immense.
Mewtwo couldn't help himself; his hands were starting to stray towards other parts of Ki's body. He supposed he did not notice his hand was caressing Ki's breast until a faint gasp from nearby caught both their attentions.
Ki broke off the kiss in consternation; she had forgotten Sharie was standing there.
*I'm sorry, my love, I forgot about her for a moment,* she stated softly.
*Who?* he asked, becoming aware of another presence nearby.
*Her.* Ki nodded towards Sharie's standing form, her eyes rising up to meet Sharie's face.
She had to chuckle to herself--Sharie was scarlet, her eyes lowered in obvious embarassment.
"Uh...." Sharie stammared, "You want me to leave you alone for awhile?"
*No,* Ki laughed. *Sorry. We got a tad carried away.*
"More than a tad," Sharie commented wryly. "It's a good thing Aaryanna is too young to know what you two were up to."
Now it was Ki who flushed.
*Ki,* said Mewtwo. *Angel.*
*Yes, my love?* she turned to him at once.
He was staring at Sharie in something akin to astonishment. *Who is that?*
*Her? Oh, that's Sharie--she's the girl Nurse Joy told us about. Turns out she's the one who drove the Fearow away and saved us all. She's no threat.*
*If that is your opinion,* he returned to his mate with a smile. *Still, I'd like to judge her for myself.*
*She is no threat,* repeated Ki.
It caught him by surprise. *What makes you repeat that?* he asked.
*I'll tell you in a minute. Don't you want to see Aaryanna?*
The reminder of his daughter immediatly erased the thought from his mind. *Yes, I do. She is unharmed?*
*I told you she was,* said Ki. *Sharie cared for her while we were unconscious.*
It was then he noticed the bandage around Ki's head and the one on her leg, stained red with dried blood. Surprise and concern caused his pulse to quicken; he reached up and felt a bandage around his own head as well.
*Good heavens,* he uttered. *Are you sure you are all right?*
*Sharie's a doctor; it was obvious to me she knows what she's doing,* said Ki firmly. As she said this, Sharie quietly stepped forward, a happily babbling baby in her arms.
She unwrapped Aaryanna as she did so, so the little girl could see her father. When the baby did, she gave a happy squeak.
"Mew!"
"She's happy to see her daddy," Sharie observed with a smile as Mewtwo held out his arms for Aaryanna.
*Yes,* he said, as a happily wiggling baby Mewtwo was transferred into his eager grasp. *You have no idea of the significance of what you have done for us. From the bottom of my soul, I thank you. I'll be eternally grateful to you.*
"I did what was right," said Sharie softly. The blush, having left her face, returned.
Mewtwo cradled his daughter in his arms, happy to see how well cared for she had been. She smiled at him and mewed softly, glad to see him, too.
His fingers tickled her stomach, causing her to giggle happily.
"Mew!" came the joyous little squeak, then Aaryanna hiccuped.
Mewtwo knew when to stop. He leaned down, giving his tiny daughter a kiss on her cheek.
"I can see fatherhood is natural to you," Sharie could not help but remark.
*Thank you,* he said, plesantly surprised, turning his face back to hers.
Her eyes met his for the first time, and all at once, he felt shock reverberating through him to the tips of his toes. A powerful wave of deja vu knocked his senses askew.
It was Ki's eyes looking back at him!
Of course, he told himself, they were not Ki's, for they did not have Ki's essence burning in their depths. They had their own, unique to Sharie instead. But how astonishing was it to see someone with Ki's unique green eyes, the first person he'd seen have them outside of Ki or their children. It wasn't even just the general color--the exact shade, depth, gleam, and reflection--all were an exact mirror of the eyes of his Ki, whom he loved so much.
Perhaps most important to him was the lack of disgust in their depths; surely she had become aware of his relationship with Ki. She had even referred to Aaryanna as his daughter. Yet in her eyes there was no malice; no disgust or discord--just a quiet acceptance of all she saw, and a glow of support as well.
She did not have to say anything, but he recognized it; and was grateful for it. He had seen too much of the negative emotions in the eyes of others to know it was not part of her gaze when she looked at him.
For the first time, he got a good look at the rest of her face, and his astonishment grew.
*This is going to sound crazy,* he said as he stood up fully himself, ignoring the burning pain in his body. Reflexively, he cradled Aaryanna closer to him. *Sharie, could I ask you to do something?*
"What?" she asked.
*Stand up,* he requested.
Her blonde eyebrows rose, but she did as he asked.
*Ki?* he asked. *Could you stand beside her, if it's not too painful for you, Angel?*
The burning pain in Ki's leg was almost gone, and she knew the bone was not broken. She managed to get to her feet when Sharie reached out and took her hand, helping her up--and up.
It hit upon her senses fully that Ki was quite a bit taller than her own petite frame. *No wonder she bore quintuplets with ease.....*
*This is going to sound odd,* Mewtwo's mental tone broke into her thoughts. *But would you both stand side-by-side?*
Sharie looked at Ki and shrugged before both moved to answer his request.
Mewtwo *stared*.
He could not help it. The resemblence between the girls indeed went well beyond their eye color! Mewtwo certainly knew every inch of Ki's body as well as his own; it was partially why this stood out to him with such startling clarity.
Their faces weren't totally exact; but it was damned well close. The only difference was how their hair framed and emphasized their faces. Ki's hair was very thick and long, straight, and dark brown. It's silky softness flowed unbound down her back to her slender waist. A soft wisp of hair fell across her forehead, in between her eyes and hung, long, in front of her, enhancing her angelic appearance.
Above a face nearly identical to Ki's, Sharie's hair was a crowning glory of it's own, if a very different glory. She wore it twisted up into a knot, but that could not hide much. It was obvious that, unbound, it would be at least as long as Ki's. The knot was big, thick, and heavy-looking, and could not hide the fact that her glorious white-gold hair was exceptionally curly, the kind of curls that could never be tamed or even go wavy, no matter how long her hair would grow. Her bangs, too, were tight curls on her forehead.
That was it. Her hair and her height. To Mewtwo, those were the only two differences he could discern between Sharie and Ki, the woman he loved so much. The rest was a shocking similarity that shook him very deeply.
Sharie was starting to squirm a tad under his scrutiny. "Are you....uh....finished?"
Mewtwo blushed, realizing how bold his actions had been.
*My apologies,* he said. *But....you two look so much....alike....I was very surprised.*
Sharie sighed. "I noticed that, too," she said. "If my scanners had not told me Ki was half mew I would have wondered if she was related somehow."
*The thought did cross my mind just now,* admitted Mewtwo. *You two could be sisters.*
"Infinitely unlikely," said Sharie quietly. "Ki, I'm sorry, I don't know how you got your parentage, and I don't want to ask if it's too nosy or anything."
Ki swallowed. *It's all right. Not much to tell. I was abandoned outside Sabrina's Psychic Pokemon Gym when I was only two days old. They kept me there and raised me; and trained me to control and use my powers--at least, the Mew who found and raised me did. I grew up with Sabrina.*
Sharie looked at her, sudden shock written across her features. "You grew up with Sabrina?" she gasped. "I know Sabrina!"
*You do? When?* asked Ki, startled. Her eyes welled with tears--the incident with Sabrina still smarted. *Sabrina was like a sister to me, until....until.....*
She gestured helplessly at herself and Mewtwo.
"She refused the idea of your unique relationship?" Sharie surmised.
*That's a mild term. She was thrown out because she could not shut up, and was told never to return,* said Ki bitterly.
"Have you spoken to her since?" asked Sharie softly. She blushed. "Sorry, it's none of my business, it's just that...."
*It's okay,* said Ki. *I miss her, or at least the way she used to be, but still....what she said to me is unforgiveable.*
"I will not ask," said Sharie softly. "But now I know why she was so sad. I stayed there for a couple of weeks a few months ago while I was traveling. I'd heard about the place with a lot of other psychics, though nobody's ability matched mine. Poor Sabrina was in a depression. I grew friendly with her but I never butted into her affairs and never asked what was troubling her."
Sharie hesistated before saying her next words. "The only thing I overheard was gossip that she was sad because she'd lost those she loved the most, all because of her own rash actions."
Ki was very quiet. She knew Sabrina was like her in that sense--she tended to act upon her emotions without thinking it through first.
Realizing this for the first time since the incident, Ki felt a pang of guilt--if she'd had Sabrina stay for just a little longer, and hazed her through her doubts until she accepted what she was seeing, could it have been different?
A new thought speared her--if that was the case, then wasn't she as guilty as Sabrina in that area? Maybe Sabrina had reacted out of shock; shock that had not worn off yet, and Ki knew she could not help her own tendency to let her temper flare fast and hot. Maybe, as a result, both personalities had collided off each other in the worst way possible.
*I do miss her,* Ki repeated, trying not to let her eyes well up. *Maybe I should have thought about her feelings, too....*
She shook her head, blinking her tears away. *Maybe, someday, I will try again with her,* she decided, in a tone that let Mewtwo know he had no argument, not on this. *If she is as Sharie said she is, then maybe she'll be willing to try again, too.*
*I do not want us hurt again, Angel,* Mewtwo put forth anyway. *Remember her cutting words?*
*Yes, and now that I remember them, they sounded more like she was trying to absorb a great shock than saying it out of sheer spite. We grew up together; I had no notion she had that sort of thing in her; and deep down,* Ki admitted this to herself at last, *I suppose I still don't think so.*
*Just search your heart and make sure, my love,* he said gently, his fingers stroking her cheek lovingly. *I will not have any doubts of yours causing you to be so hurt again. Not for the world.*
Ki smiled softly and leaned into his touch. Only out of the corner of his eyes did Mewtwo notice that Sharie had zoned out, trying not to pay attention to them as she checked her stock of medicines in her emergency pack. He had a feeling she had done so as soon as their conversation had turned private. He smiled; she was not a nosy busybody. He liked that.
****
*Sharie. SHARIE.* Ki had to say her name twice before Sharie blinked, startled. The glass left her eyes as she looked directly at Ki.
*Are you in there?* teased Ki. Sharie flushed.
"I was trying not to pay attention to your words. It was not my place to listen in." Her words confirmed Mewtwo's earlier thoughts.
Ki smiled. *Do you think it is safe enough now for us to return?*
"I am not certain. Both of you were struck square in the base of your skulls, a sensetive place for psychics. I don't know how much your power was affected; though I can tell you it is only temporary if it has been. But I do want to take a look at your leg, Ki. You were bleeding pretty badly earlier."
Ki nodded and sat down beside Sharie, stretching out her leg. Sharie took out a pair of scissors and began to cut away the bandages. *It does not hurt much anymore,* said Ki. *Nor does my head.*
Quickly and deftly Sharie removed the bandages. There was a long, jagged cut along Ki's leg, and she was aware of Mewtwo's horrified mental gasp.
*What kind of healing is that?* he demanded.
Sharie ignored the comment. She sensed how protective he was of Ki; and he was just very worried.
"It is healing nicely, and I can garauntee, Mewtwo, that it is nowhere near as bad as it looks. I'll spray more Super Potion and Full Heal on it, and there won't even be a scar. That cut missed all your arteries, Ki. You're a lucky girl."
*Thank you,* said Ki as Sharie began to pack up her medicinal bag. *Are you going back to Pallet Town after this, Sharie?*
"I was. I was only out in the first place collecting roots and plants for healing purposes. I share them with Nurse Joy. But now....but now I'm not really expecting to be going back."
Sharie's voice had lowered to a whisper, and her eyes lowered, as well.
*What?* said Ki. *What do you mean?*
"You know why, Ki." Sharie's eyes lifted and drifted to a surprised Mewtwo for a moment before they turned back to Ki's.
Ki looked horrified as comprehension dawned. *Sharie, I told you that you would have nothing to worry about on that! He'll understand, I am sure of it!*
"Are you 100%, totally certain?" asked Sharie in the same soft tone. "I told you I accepted my fate the instant I knew I had to help you. And I do, whatever it brings, for I was doing the right thing."
*What is she talkng about?* Mewtwo was truly puzzled. He had no idea until now Ki was hiding anything from him.
Ki turned to face him. *Who she is isn't her fault! Haven't we learned that, Mewtwo--the hard way? Haven't we learned about forgiveness?*
Now he *was* startled. *What on earth are you talking about, Ki?*
*Sharie!* said Ki impatiently. *Sharie is the daughter of that Donningan Triesta and the niece of that Fuji Triesta, the scientists and brothers who created you!*
Mewtwo felt his insides grow cold as he stiffened with shock. Total amazement was written across his features as he turned to Sharie.
Her green eyes met his, and he saw the fire and spirit, and acceptance, burning in her eyes. There was no deceit; no attempt to deny Ki's words or hinder the truth. Ki's blunt words brought the past rushing back, and for several intense seconds, he did not know what to do or how to react.
*You....* he said quietly, noting her resemblence, not only to Ki this time, but to the Donningan Triesta who haunted his nightmares, *You are the spawn of those....humans?*
*Yes. I am.* Sharie had spoken telepathically, and Mewtwo was only dimly surprised at the switch.
He did not answer. Quietly, he laid Aaryanna aside on the grass beside him before standing back up.
When his ameythst eyes met her green ones again, she shivered at the fact all the warmth had fled his gaze.
His eyes had become antartically cold and were bearing down on her with an overpowering intensity.
Sharie shivered, but stood firm, looking into his eyes with her own and not daring to back down. She was ready to accept her fate; she knew it was the right thing to do. She waited patiently for her destiny to claim her.
****
Oooh....gets better, no? Watch out for part 4, as a surprise intervention may help decide Sharie's fate.
Rated PG-13 for some language and mild sensuality (Mild, but with Ki and Mewtwo being who they are, oversensetive readers, turn your eyeballs away now).
Shadowed Reflections Ch. 3 By ZeoViolet
****
*Who are you, really?* Ki dared to whisper at last. The sudden knot in her stomach was too strong to bear as she stared at this stranger who eerily similar to her. *Are you Team Rocket, that you know that?*
*No,* Sharie responded gently, still using telepathy. Her first point would be to drive away any notion that she was a threat. *I know better than to wallow in such filth. Of that, I can assure you of. However,....* Here she hesistated, but knew it was in all their best interests that she not lie. *Others in my family shared a brief aquaintence with them before breaking off ties in disgust. My father still has aquaintences in their circle he still speaks with. I heard stories through them.*
Ki went paler. *Stories....*
"Stories I can see are very cruelly voiced, let's leave it at that," Sharie said softly, switiching back to speaking verbally. "What I see here is to me not the perverted situation they described it as. I do have eyes to see."
*What do you see?* Ki could not help but ask. She *had* to know. Her arms closed protectively over her daughter as she said this. She had already seen enough of people's disgusted reactions by now, and she was outright tired of screaming it wasn't true, it wasn't wrong!
"I can see a powerful bond between you and Mewtwo, permeating your very souls." Sharie's voice was still quiet and supportive, and no hint of disgust was showing, even in her eyes. "You even share a child. Such a bond cannot be wrong. That's all I need to know."
Ki's eyes glittered fiercely, for it was obvious how truthful Sharie was. Ki's heart pounded in gratitude; few ever reacted like that at first.
*Thank you,* she uttered in a low telepathic tone. *Thank you for understanding so quickly, when others have been so quick to condemn. You have no idea how much that means to me, and will mean to....* she trailed off, unable to finish.
Sharie smiled faintly. "I can understand how it is to be so different from others," she said quietly. "If our dear nurse felt it necessary to gab to you about me for whatever reason, she likely spilled what she knew. I do know she would not have without reason."
*Then your name *is* Sharie Triesta,* said Ki, rocking Aaryanna back and forth. The child issued a series of happy sqeaks and coos.
"Yes." Sharie answered simply.
Ki was silent for a moment, studying her.
*She looks similar to me,* Ki again observed to herself. *Even her eyes are identical to mine. But I can't sense her much. It is truly eerie. Is this what Nurse Joy meant? I'd have to see her for myself?*
For the moment, Ki decided she was trustworthy.
*My name is Ki,* she offered her name forth. *I hope I can trust you, Sharie.*
"I would never bring harm to you or your family. I'd say you've been dealt more than your fair share already." Sharie's eyes darkened as she said her next words. "In fact, I'd still fear for you, because of Team Rocket. I can tell you, however, that for now a cease-and-desist order concerning your disposal has been carried out. They're too afraid of you both now. It is certain Giovanni met his untimely end at your hands, if the word that reached my family is any indication."
*I was pregnant and he tried to kidnap me,* said Ki shortly.
"Then you were both defending yourselves." Sharie drew this conclusion quickly. Giovanni being who he had been, of this she had little doubt. "Giovanni had no children--thank our lucky stars--so his younger brother's taken over. He's afraid of you and does not wish to lose any more of his henchmen."
Sharie shrugged. "Let's divert from mention of Team Rocket. Conversation about them is too foul."
*Yes,* Ki agreed fully with that one. Aaryanna snuggled closer to her. "Mew."
Sharie smiled indulgently. She could not help it--the little Mewtwo touched her heart, where few had ever reached.
"She's so beautiful. Aaryanna? I've never heard of a name that fit more-- Holy Beauty. Inside and out. I enjoyed caring for her."
*Really?* asked Ki, the pounding in her head easing as her senses continued to clear. *Aaryanna cries if anybody but myself or Mewtwo holds her.*
Sharie smiled, reaching over to touch the blanket gently. The baby noticed and reached up a tiny hand to grasp her fingers, hard, while uttering a happy gurgle. It surprised Ki to see such a trusting move.
"She did at first," Sharie admitted, stroking the tiny fingers with her own. "She was terrified because of the attack. I sang to her a bit and she eventually calmed down. I am a pokemon doctor; I know how to handle newborn infants. When you did not wake up I had to feed her with a special formula I carry with me for baby pokemon. I hope you don't mind."
*It is still a first, her accepting you like that,* said Ki, seeing how clearly her daughter had been taken care of. She was cooing contentedly even now. *Although she's only nursed before now, you fed her. I do not know how to repay you for all you've done.*
"You owe me nothing. I did what was right."
Sharie hesistated, then picked up a scanner. "I must confess something," she admitted. "Your leg wound is healing now, but for a short while it bled pretty badly. I was afraid that I would have to take you to a hospital for a transfusion. I had to take a blood sample. I don't know if you know this, but your....blood...."
Sharie shrugged helplessly. "I ran it through both the scanners I have. Your blood is.....is...."
*I know of my heritage,* said Ki slowly, her cheeks flaming. *I know I am half mew. You do not need to beat around the bush.*
Sharie swallowed. "It's not my business. I noticed your sample exactly matched a skin sample from Mewtwo, and your pretty little daughter there. I was just confirming in my own mind what this all looked like to me, that she really was your daughter *and* his. Your....situation is not something one sees every day."
*No,* said Ki simply. The sudden pain in her eyes, and of desperate fear when she turned her gaze to Mewtwo, spoke volumes to Sharie.
"No," said Sharie. "But I can tell. she is no less precious to both of you because of it. You and he are no less in love with each other because of simple physical differences, either. How some people could be so stupidly blind...."
Ki's eyes shimmered. *I love him so much....I don't know what I'd do if....*
"I understand," said Sharie softly. "Your bond is a rare gift, made even more precious by the child you share."
Ki was suddenly even more alarmed as more of her memory came drifting back. *She's not the only one! We've got to get back! My other children--*
"What?" Sharie gasped. "You have others?"
*I had quintuplets a week and a half ago! This was only supposed to be a short outing with Aaryanna to give her some individual attention! Mew must be out of her mind with--*
"Quints!" Sharie echoed, truly startled. Her face went white. "You gave birth to five babies?"
*Yes!* Ki was close to panicking rather suddenly. *Mews give birth in litters, so it was of no real surprise to me or Mewtwo. Mew must be frantic with worry for us!*
"Is she caring for the other babies, then?" asked Sharie.
*Yes. She has formula enough for a couple of days, but she can't leave them alone to look for us. What must she be thinking?!*
Sharie reached out a hand and placed it on Ki's shoulder. "Calm down, Ki. Your name means Angel of Light in pokemon, doesn't it? Angels are serene, and your words are spreading shadows, instead of light, where they ought not to go. Wait until Mewtwo wakes up. I don't know where you live so I am unsure about telekenetically hauling him across the ocean right now."
Ki slumped, dejectedly. Aaryanna started to fuss.
"She's getting hungry again," Sharie remarked.
*Yes, that was kind of obvious,* said Ki rather sharply. A faint flash of hurt was seen in Sharie's eyes for an instant before it was gone.
Ki felt even worse. This kind girl had rescued her, and she'd acted upon her impuslive temper once again where it was not needed.
*I'm sorry,* she stated softly. *I am just so worried....*
"I understand." Sharie waved her hand in dismissal. "I can see that red- hot temper of yours. It is just your nature."
Ki removed Aaryanna from her blanket, putting it over her shoulder before she exposed herself. She tucked her daughter under the blanket and let her nurse. *Ow, I am sore. I've already missed two of their feedings.*
"No wonder," Sharie agreed shortly. "I have a feeling your mate will be awake soon. Mewtwo was created to be tough."
*How do you know that?* asked Ki, rather startled.
"I just know. I know all about him." Sharie went deadly pale as she admitted this.
*How? Have you met before by some sheer chance?* If he had, Ki reflected, he'd never mentioned it to her.
"No. I never saw him in the flesh before today."
Ki noticed Sharie had gone pale and there was....something, a turbulence in her eyes that should not be there. *Sharie? What is wrong?*
Sharie shivered, and swallowed. "You both have been used. Mewtwo's been lied to, treated like an object, everything. You do not deserve to have me lie to you. I don't want to lie to you. It would not be fair to you, regardless of the consequences to myself."
*Sharie, what on earth are you talking about?* Ki asked, feeling a new knot in the pit of her stomach. *What are you hiding that makes you so scared?*
"I have every right to be scared, Ki. I've personally done nothing to either of you, but both of you would have the right to loathe me anyways."
Ki was staring at her, wondering if she wasn't a little unstable at the moment. *Why would we loathe you? My stars, you've saved our lives! I'm in your debt, and Mewtwo is going to say the same thing once he awakens and finds you here. I am sure he'd want to.*
"No!" Sharie burst out. She shook her head fiercely for a moment. "You don't understand, Ki. I've never met him but I do know him inside and out. I never knew of his existence until after the destruction of the lab on New Island. I mean you no harm but with Mewtwo's reputation I do not expect he'll treat me kindly, not when he knows. But I can't hide this from him."
Ki was still trying to follow all this. *Who are you, then, that this is so awful?*
Sharie's eyes were full of fire and pain as she admitted the truth to Ki. "It is not right I lie to you. You've been lied to and manipulated enough. My name is Sharie Triesta, that you know. What you do not know is who my father and uncle were. My father is Dr. Donningan Triesta, and my Uncle is Dr. Fuji Triesta. They were the ones who created Mewtwo in the lab on New Island. They created him, Ki, and I am their daughter."
****
There were several tense moments of dead silence as Ki stared at Sharie in shock.
Sharie met her stare without wavering. The truth was blazing in her eyes; no liar could put up such a conviction, even a false one.
Now Ki understood why Sharie was so afraid.
*You knew this,* She whispered at last. *And yet, you risked your life to save us. Why?*
It was not the outburst Sharie had been expecting, and the startlement in her eyes proved it.
"It was only right. How could I not? Your lives were in danger. I was never told about Mewtwo's creation until he had almost killed my family on New Island. I wasn't there. They never told me because they know how I feel about pokemon, of capturing and using them. What's worse, they are both psychic humans; they should have known better. A lot of circumstances led up to their tainted alliance with Team Rocket."
Sharie shuddered violently. It was one of the few subjects that could get past her carefully controlled demeanor. "My cousin Amber had died. Later they told me they could bring her back, if they could prove how to bring back life through cloning. Giovanni got heard of this and offered to do it for them for free instead of them dipping into the family fourtunes. In return, he wanted Mewtwo created."
Sharie swallowed. "Da and my uncle Fuji were ravaged with grief over her death, as was I. But I had no idea that it affected especially my uncle Fuji so deeply that it would cloud their thinking. I would not wonder it was why they treated Mewtwo as they did, because they were only thinking of their own pain at the moment. They could not bring Amber back, and after they were pulled from the rubble, I made them give me any and all info on mewtwo."
Sharie clenched her hands into fists so hard her knuckles turned white with the effort. "I was angry at them for a long time for treating life as if were some disposable commodity for the use of humans only. I was even more upset when word reached me on how Giovanni was using Mewtwo. Like some plaything. I was more than happy for Mewtwo when he escaped, even though I was not sure at the time if the rumors of the so-called 'pervert' who left with him were true. Later..."
Sharie shuddered. "I was eventually able to forgive my family, but only after we had a long talk and they told me exactly why they had done it. They still had no right to act as if Mewtwo was nothing more than an experiment for the benefit of humans only, or that he was some machine or object for Giovanni's amusement. Gods, it's wrong! Don't people think I know that?! I can see how they feel, and I understand! It makes me so mad sometimes, to see humans so blind!"
Sharie was shaking hard from her violent outburst; Ki got the sudden feeling Sharie rarely let go of her temper. Again, such a reaction could not be faked. Sharie's eyes, her face, and her manner--hell, it was glowing from the depths of her very soul--she was telling the truth, and Ki sensed it very clearly.
"That's why," Sharie stammared. "It is why I ought to be hated by you both. I am tainted; bound by blood to those Mewtwo loathes the most. You are his mate; surely you've experienced many of the same emotions and would stand beside him on everything. I knew I had a choice whether to risk helping you, but I would not see you hurt. I accept my fate; at last I have one, odd as it may seem."
Sharie lapsed into silence then, her eyes staying locked with Ki's.
Poor Ki did not really know what to think; suddenly she was awhirl with many different emotions. Quietly, she withdrew Aaryanna from underneath the blanket. The baby had fallen asleep, strangely undisturbed by what was going on around her. Ki wrapped her up in her blanket and laid her beside her, her green eyes never leaving Sharie's matching ones.
Finally, she attempted to sort out her confused thoughts, directing her mental words to Sharie.
*I really don't know what to say,* she began uncertainly. *You are right; my first impulse would be to loathe all who are connected to those who hurt my Mewtwo so badly and almost destroyed his very soul. Your story matched much of what he has told me; he could hardly ever speak of it, and when he did the pain in his soul stabbed my own heart. Your story brings it back, all that painful memory. But--* She swallowed.
*I don't understand it. I feel so strange. I don't hate you; for some reason, I can't. In my life I've learned some lessons, Sharie, lessons that were learned the hard way and at a terrible price. What can I say? You might be their blood, but if your words are true, you're innocent.*
Ki shivered, and for a moment looked ashamed of herself. *There was a time I wanted to destroy the world at Mewtwo's side and remake it into one that accepted us; but we learned how wrong it was. On attempting to indeed take over the world we learned what a high price could be paid. Not everyone has a foul heart. I've found a few true friends in the most unexpected of places, and circumstances.*
"It can be those you least expect," Sharie breathed softly, her cheeks pinking. "I, too, have learned that."
Ki almost smiled at her. *With as much prejudice as we've faced, it's a difficult notion to live by. But if we can't forgive and act above those who hurt us, then we are no better, are we? They hurt and act for their own benefit, and it's easy to take on that notion as our own, for revenge. But it means we've changed nothing.*
Sharie's cheeks flushed and her eyes lowered. "I don't want them hurt," she whispered. "I love my family; they're the only ones whom I really have. If I must step into their place, Ki, then so be it. They've come to their senses but it does not change the past."
Ki swallowed. *They are not you. I already can see how different you are from those who'd hurt us. Otherwise you would not have taken the actions you have done today. You knew who we were, you did not have to involve yourself, yet you did. We'd be dead, and any risk to your family you might have felt would have been gone forever. But you have a soul; you've treated me as your equal and not condemned me because of my actions or Mewtwo's.*
Ki leaned down and brushed her fingers against her daughter's cheeks. The baby made some small murmuring sounds, but did not awaken. *Aaryanna's being alive at all is a true miracle. I've come to believe strongly in fate and miracles; each time Mewtwo and I have been threatened with seperation some miracle has happened that kept us together. If this is like those other times,* she graced Sharie with a true smile again, indicating that if anything had to be forgiven, it was already done. *Fate placed you in our path. You ought not suffer for it.*
"Would Mewtwo share your sentiments?" Sharie asked bitterly.
Ki's smile faded. *Even I do not know that for certain,* she answered in a low mental tone. *Despite what we've learned about life together, it's a deep rage within him. People failing to understand we belong together is a deep rage within both of us; but we've learned to deal with it the best we can. I do not believe you are a threat. I think fate favored us by putting you in our path so you could save our lives. I can still be with him, thanks to you. Besides, if Mewtwo or I have made any grave mistakes in our lives, our children ought not have to pay for them. The same should go for you. Again, that was a hard lesson learned, but in the end, it was learned well.*
"You have no idea how grateful I am to hear those words," Sharie swallowed, and for a moment, her eyes shimmered. "And I do hate to admit any weakness, but I am still afraid. Of his reaction. I have no inclination to hide the truth. There would have been no point. With the name Triesta and my looks, for I look like my father, he would have known eventually anyways."
Ki frowned. *Mewtwo would never do anything I did not want him to do, and the same on his feelings for me. We're too close for that. I do not want you hurt. If nothing else, he'll respect that.*
"Oh, no--do not put me in the middle of a situation that will cause you two to have a disagreement." Sharie held up a hand in protest. "I already told you I accepted my fate the instant I chose to help you. Besides, I am alone, and it's not like I'd be missed much anywhere--"
Ki's jaw dropped. Gods--was Sharie's opinion of herself that low? *How can you say that about yourself? That's not true; I can see it. Nurse Joy said you'd been badly treated but I'd never have imagined this badly. I like you and I tell you, I won't let it happen. No fight between Mewtwo or myself has to take place. We are so close that it would not take much to make him see what I see, and that is what I intend to do.*
Sharie flushed but did not say anything more.
Besides, she had no time. A faint moan issued from Mewtwo's throat as he began to stir.
****
It was like the nightmarish tendrils of a haunting dream trailed him to awakeness. He remembered a pain in his head, and Ki screaming. Aaryanna's loud wails of fright reached his ears. It all made his heart contract painfully, but he could move no more, only knew he was hurling downwards to the ocean waves far below them, knowing he had failed at protecting them from harm--
Ki noticed him stir, and Sharie saw the immediate depth of emotion that came into her unique green eyes.
"Go to him," She whispered. "If you want, I'll take Aaryanna while you do."
Ki nodded gratefully, gently transferring the sleeping baby to Sharie's willing arms.
The movement awoke Aaryanna, and she yawned and opened her eyes, aware she was being moved. But when she saw who was holding her, she only smiled and waved her tiny fingers, giving a small, soft coo.
*She really isn't crying,* marvelled Ki, smiling. *A baby Mewtwo would probably be the best indicator of a threat. If I had any doubts left, they're gone. She knows Sharie is not one.*
The instant Mewtwo came to awareness, he felt cool fingers grasp his hands. A familiar body slid in beside him, and the lingering nightmares were soothed by the essence his heart recognized. He was smiling even before he opened his eyes; he knew it was Ki.
*Welcome back, my love,* he heard softly. *I knew you would not leave me alone.*
*I'd rather burn for all eternity in Hades,* was his soft reply, his eyes blinking open. His heart was filled with absolute joy to see Ki's angelic, smiling face and sparkling eyes greeting him.
*Do you remember what happened?* she asked. *We made it. We're all right. And Aaryanna's nearby; she is all right, too.*
*That is the most important thing, Angel.* Without thinking, he sat up, Ki's arms supporting him. Also without thinking, he reached for her.
Their lips met in a candence born of pure joy and total relief. They were so grateful to be in each other's arms it was paradise.
Sharie, watching this, was caught completely off guard. Even though she had accepted their relationship and was happy for them, it was still startling to see something as new and different as what appeared to be a human and a pokemon kissing.
A fierce blush rose to her cheeks and she felt rooted to where she was standing on the grass. Their kissing was so passionate that she felt a weird sort of heat sweep through her body, almost like a pulse. Quickly she dropped her eyes; ashamed to have caught herself staring during such a private moment.
It was indeed true, then. This was love; and obviously at so deep a level it was impossible to deny the fact it was right. She was glad two individuals so like herself had found such happiness in this condemning world.
Ki gave a silent moan of rapture as Mewtwo's tongue slid past her lips to explore the secret recesses of her mouth. Heavens, but how she had been so afraid she'd never feel it again, not until they reunited in death! It was truly a miracle they were here at all; and her gratitude to fate and to any diety listening was immense.
Mewtwo couldn't help himself; his hands were starting to stray towards other parts of Ki's body. He supposed he did not notice his hand was caressing Ki's breast until a faint gasp from nearby caught both their attentions.
Ki broke off the kiss in consternation; she had forgotten Sharie was standing there.
*I'm sorry, my love, I forgot about her for a moment,* she stated softly.
*Who?* he asked, becoming aware of another presence nearby.
*Her.* Ki nodded towards Sharie's standing form, her eyes rising up to meet Sharie's face.
She had to chuckle to herself--Sharie was scarlet, her eyes lowered in obvious embarassment.
"Uh...." Sharie stammared, "You want me to leave you alone for awhile?"
*No,* Ki laughed. *Sorry. We got a tad carried away.*
"More than a tad," Sharie commented wryly. "It's a good thing Aaryanna is too young to know what you two were up to."
Now it was Ki who flushed.
*Ki,* said Mewtwo. *Angel.*
*Yes, my love?* she turned to him at once.
He was staring at Sharie in something akin to astonishment. *Who is that?*
*Her? Oh, that's Sharie--she's the girl Nurse Joy told us about. Turns out she's the one who drove the Fearow away and saved us all. She's no threat.*
*If that is your opinion,* he returned to his mate with a smile. *Still, I'd like to judge her for myself.*
*She is no threat,* repeated Ki.
It caught him by surprise. *What makes you repeat that?* he asked.
*I'll tell you in a minute. Don't you want to see Aaryanna?*
The reminder of his daughter immediatly erased the thought from his mind. *Yes, I do. She is unharmed?*
*I told you she was,* said Ki. *Sharie cared for her while we were unconscious.*
It was then he noticed the bandage around Ki's head and the one on her leg, stained red with dried blood. Surprise and concern caused his pulse to quicken; he reached up and felt a bandage around his own head as well.
*Good heavens,* he uttered. *Are you sure you are all right?*
*Sharie's a doctor; it was obvious to me she knows what she's doing,* said Ki firmly. As she said this, Sharie quietly stepped forward, a happily babbling baby in her arms.
She unwrapped Aaryanna as she did so, so the little girl could see her father. When the baby did, she gave a happy squeak.
"Mew!"
"She's happy to see her daddy," Sharie observed with a smile as Mewtwo held out his arms for Aaryanna.
*Yes,* he said, as a happily wiggling baby Mewtwo was transferred into his eager grasp. *You have no idea of the significance of what you have done for us. From the bottom of my soul, I thank you. I'll be eternally grateful to you.*
"I did what was right," said Sharie softly. The blush, having left her face, returned.
Mewtwo cradled his daughter in his arms, happy to see how well cared for she had been. She smiled at him and mewed softly, glad to see him, too.
His fingers tickled her stomach, causing her to giggle happily.
"Mew!" came the joyous little squeak, then Aaryanna hiccuped.
Mewtwo knew when to stop. He leaned down, giving his tiny daughter a kiss on her cheek.
"I can see fatherhood is natural to you," Sharie could not help but remark.
*Thank you,* he said, plesantly surprised, turning his face back to hers.
Her eyes met his for the first time, and all at once, he felt shock reverberating through him to the tips of his toes. A powerful wave of deja vu knocked his senses askew.
It was Ki's eyes looking back at him!
Of course, he told himself, they were not Ki's, for they did not have Ki's essence burning in their depths. They had their own, unique to Sharie instead. But how astonishing was it to see someone with Ki's unique green eyes, the first person he'd seen have them outside of Ki or their children. It wasn't even just the general color--the exact shade, depth, gleam, and reflection--all were an exact mirror of the eyes of his Ki, whom he loved so much.
Perhaps most important to him was the lack of disgust in their depths; surely she had become aware of his relationship with Ki. She had even referred to Aaryanna as his daughter. Yet in her eyes there was no malice; no disgust or discord--just a quiet acceptance of all she saw, and a glow of support as well.
She did not have to say anything, but he recognized it; and was grateful for it. He had seen too much of the negative emotions in the eyes of others to know it was not part of her gaze when she looked at him.
For the first time, he got a good look at the rest of her face, and his astonishment grew.
*This is going to sound crazy,* he said as he stood up fully himself, ignoring the burning pain in his body. Reflexively, he cradled Aaryanna closer to him. *Sharie, could I ask you to do something?*
"What?" she asked.
*Stand up,* he requested.
Her blonde eyebrows rose, but she did as he asked.
*Ki?* he asked. *Could you stand beside her, if it's not too painful for you, Angel?*
The burning pain in Ki's leg was almost gone, and she knew the bone was not broken. She managed to get to her feet when Sharie reached out and took her hand, helping her up--and up.
It hit upon her senses fully that Ki was quite a bit taller than her own petite frame. *No wonder she bore quintuplets with ease.....*
*This is going to sound odd,* Mewtwo's mental tone broke into her thoughts. *But would you both stand side-by-side?*
Sharie looked at Ki and shrugged before both moved to answer his request.
Mewtwo *stared*.
He could not help it. The resemblence between the girls indeed went well beyond their eye color! Mewtwo certainly knew every inch of Ki's body as well as his own; it was partially why this stood out to him with such startling clarity.
Their faces weren't totally exact; but it was damned well close. The only difference was how their hair framed and emphasized their faces. Ki's hair was very thick and long, straight, and dark brown. It's silky softness flowed unbound down her back to her slender waist. A soft wisp of hair fell across her forehead, in between her eyes and hung, long, in front of her, enhancing her angelic appearance.
Above a face nearly identical to Ki's, Sharie's hair was a crowning glory of it's own, if a very different glory. She wore it twisted up into a knot, but that could not hide much. It was obvious that, unbound, it would be at least as long as Ki's. The knot was big, thick, and heavy-looking, and could not hide the fact that her glorious white-gold hair was exceptionally curly, the kind of curls that could never be tamed or even go wavy, no matter how long her hair would grow. Her bangs, too, were tight curls on her forehead.
That was it. Her hair and her height. To Mewtwo, those were the only two differences he could discern between Sharie and Ki, the woman he loved so much. The rest was a shocking similarity that shook him very deeply.
Sharie was starting to squirm a tad under his scrutiny. "Are you....uh....finished?"
Mewtwo blushed, realizing how bold his actions had been.
*My apologies,* he said. *But....you two look so much....alike....I was very surprised.*
Sharie sighed. "I noticed that, too," she said. "If my scanners had not told me Ki was half mew I would have wondered if she was related somehow."
*The thought did cross my mind just now,* admitted Mewtwo. *You two could be sisters.*
"Infinitely unlikely," said Sharie quietly. "Ki, I'm sorry, I don't know how you got your parentage, and I don't want to ask if it's too nosy or anything."
Ki swallowed. *It's all right. Not much to tell. I was abandoned outside Sabrina's Psychic Pokemon Gym when I was only two days old. They kept me there and raised me; and trained me to control and use my powers--at least, the Mew who found and raised me did. I grew up with Sabrina.*
Sharie looked at her, sudden shock written across her features. "You grew up with Sabrina?" she gasped. "I know Sabrina!"
*You do? When?* asked Ki, startled. Her eyes welled with tears--the incident with Sabrina still smarted. *Sabrina was like a sister to me, until....until.....*
She gestured helplessly at herself and Mewtwo.
"She refused the idea of your unique relationship?" Sharie surmised.
*That's a mild term. She was thrown out because she could not shut up, and was told never to return,* said Ki bitterly.
"Have you spoken to her since?" asked Sharie softly. She blushed. "Sorry, it's none of my business, it's just that...."
*It's okay,* said Ki. *I miss her, or at least the way she used to be, but still....what she said to me is unforgiveable.*
"I will not ask," said Sharie softly. "But now I know why she was so sad. I stayed there for a couple of weeks a few months ago while I was traveling. I'd heard about the place with a lot of other psychics, though nobody's ability matched mine. Poor Sabrina was in a depression. I grew friendly with her but I never butted into her affairs and never asked what was troubling her."
Sharie hesistated before saying her next words. "The only thing I overheard was gossip that she was sad because she'd lost those she loved the most, all because of her own rash actions."
Ki was very quiet. She knew Sabrina was like her in that sense--she tended to act upon her emotions without thinking it through first.
Realizing this for the first time since the incident, Ki felt a pang of guilt--if she'd had Sabrina stay for just a little longer, and hazed her through her doubts until she accepted what she was seeing, could it have been different?
A new thought speared her--if that was the case, then wasn't she as guilty as Sabrina in that area? Maybe Sabrina had reacted out of shock; shock that had not worn off yet, and Ki knew she could not help her own tendency to let her temper flare fast and hot. Maybe, as a result, both personalities had collided off each other in the worst way possible.
*I do miss her,* Ki repeated, trying not to let her eyes well up. *Maybe I should have thought about her feelings, too....*
She shook her head, blinking her tears away. *Maybe, someday, I will try again with her,* she decided, in a tone that let Mewtwo know he had no argument, not on this. *If she is as Sharie said she is, then maybe she'll be willing to try again, too.*
*I do not want us hurt again, Angel,* Mewtwo put forth anyway. *Remember her cutting words?*
*Yes, and now that I remember them, they sounded more like she was trying to absorb a great shock than saying it out of sheer spite. We grew up together; I had no notion she had that sort of thing in her; and deep down,* Ki admitted this to herself at last, *I suppose I still don't think so.*
*Just search your heart and make sure, my love,* he said gently, his fingers stroking her cheek lovingly. *I will not have any doubts of yours causing you to be so hurt again. Not for the world.*
Ki smiled softly and leaned into his touch. Only out of the corner of his eyes did Mewtwo notice that Sharie had zoned out, trying not to pay attention to them as she checked her stock of medicines in her emergency pack. He had a feeling she had done so as soon as their conversation had turned private. He smiled; she was not a nosy busybody. He liked that.
****
*Sharie. SHARIE.* Ki had to say her name twice before Sharie blinked, startled. The glass left her eyes as she looked directly at Ki.
*Are you in there?* teased Ki. Sharie flushed.
"I was trying not to pay attention to your words. It was not my place to listen in." Her words confirmed Mewtwo's earlier thoughts.
Ki smiled. *Do you think it is safe enough now for us to return?*
"I am not certain. Both of you were struck square in the base of your skulls, a sensetive place for psychics. I don't know how much your power was affected; though I can tell you it is only temporary if it has been. But I do want to take a look at your leg, Ki. You were bleeding pretty badly earlier."
Ki nodded and sat down beside Sharie, stretching out her leg. Sharie took out a pair of scissors and began to cut away the bandages. *It does not hurt much anymore,* said Ki. *Nor does my head.*
Quickly and deftly Sharie removed the bandages. There was a long, jagged cut along Ki's leg, and she was aware of Mewtwo's horrified mental gasp.
*What kind of healing is that?* he demanded.
Sharie ignored the comment. She sensed how protective he was of Ki; and he was just very worried.
"It is healing nicely, and I can garauntee, Mewtwo, that it is nowhere near as bad as it looks. I'll spray more Super Potion and Full Heal on it, and there won't even be a scar. That cut missed all your arteries, Ki. You're a lucky girl."
*Thank you,* said Ki as Sharie began to pack up her medicinal bag. *Are you going back to Pallet Town after this, Sharie?*
"I was. I was only out in the first place collecting roots and plants for healing purposes. I share them with Nurse Joy. But now....but now I'm not really expecting to be going back."
Sharie's voice had lowered to a whisper, and her eyes lowered, as well.
*What?* said Ki. *What do you mean?*
"You know why, Ki." Sharie's eyes lifted and drifted to a surprised Mewtwo for a moment before they turned back to Ki's.
Ki looked horrified as comprehension dawned. *Sharie, I told you that you would have nothing to worry about on that! He'll understand, I am sure of it!*
"Are you 100%, totally certain?" asked Sharie in the same soft tone. "I told you I accepted my fate the instant I knew I had to help you. And I do, whatever it brings, for I was doing the right thing."
*What is she talkng about?* Mewtwo was truly puzzled. He had no idea until now Ki was hiding anything from him.
Ki turned to face him. *Who she is isn't her fault! Haven't we learned that, Mewtwo--the hard way? Haven't we learned about forgiveness?*
Now he *was* startled. *What on earth are you talking about, Ki?*
*Sharie!* said Ki impatiently. *Sharie is the daughter of that Donningan Triesta and the niece of that Fuji Triesta, the scientists and brothers who created you!*
Mewtwo felt his insides grow cold as he stiffened with shock. Total amazement was written across his features as he turned to Sharie.
Her green eyes met his, and he saw the fire and spirit, and acceptance, burning in her eyes. There was no deceit; no attempt to deny Ki's words or hinder the truth. Ki's blunt words brought the past rushing back, and for several intense seconds, he did not know what to do or how to react.
*You....* he said quietly, noting her resemblence, not only to Ki this time, but to the Donningan Triesta who haunted his nightmares, *You are the spawn of those....humans?*
*Yes. I am.* Sharie had spoken telepathically, and Mewtwo was only dimly surprised at the switch.
He did not answer. Quietly, he laid Aaryanna aside on the grass beside him before standing back up.
When his ameythst eyes met her green ones again, she shivered at the fact all the warmth had fled his gaze.
His eyes had become antartically cold and were bearing down on her with an overpowering intensity.
Sharie shivered, but stood firm, looking into his eyes with her own and not daring to back down. She was ready to accept her fate; she knew it was the right thing to do. She waited patiently for her destiny to claim her.
****
Oooh....gets better, no? Watch out for part 4, as a surprise intervention may help decide Sharie's fate.