A Mid-Sinnoh Night's Dream - XXX + 2 - END

"...Listen, Hilby," Lucas said. "There are a lot of things I can say, but I think this will answer your question better."

Lucas grabbed the other boy's arm and pulled him to his feet. Hilbert's eyes were red, and he refused to look Lucas in the face. Everyone else, Lucas, Dawn, Cheryl, Marley, Riley, they all took a step back.

Lucas reared back and punched Hilbert square in the jaw. The other boy clattered to the ground, not even offering a defense.

"What kind of idiot are you? Are you serious? You're afraid of hurting people?"

"I have power, Lucas," Hilbert offered, weakly. "It's dangerous. I don't know them anymore. They don't know me."

"But they do, Hilby. They'll care about you no matter what you do, even if you run to the furthest corner of the universe. You think that if you run away from the people that care about you, that'll make you a hero?"

Lucas yanked him off the ground, glaring intensely as he pulled his face close. "That's just selfishness! You're being selfish when you try to cut yourself off from them! You're being lazy, you're being weak! You're a person too! You're not some god, you're not some untouchable beast that screams "Ai" at the heart of the world! You don't count yourself among the people of this world, even as you declare yourself its defender! You're making yourself an exception for no good reason other than because you don't want to take the risk of being human! You're human too! You have to remember these people, I know you do! Because you still care about them, even as you say you don't care about them too closely! You do! You absolutely do, but you're afraid of something that hasn't happened yet, that won't happen if you make the right choice!"

"The right choice is to leave, I can't stay here."

Lucas picked him up and slammed him against the wall, shouting in his face, "Yes, you can! You can still be a hero, you can still be a protector, but you don't have to leave! You're a hero to your people already! You can't go on forever! You are not a GOD! You're going to die eventually, Hilby! You need to spend the time with the people you care about! When you die, someone else will be there to take your place! That's how humanity and Pokémon have worked together throughout all of history, here and everywhere else! After each turn, a new hero is born and the future grows closer, the Heavens get closer to our reach. You won't live forever, you won't grow indefinitely. Your journey is over, okay? You can stop! You can settle down with the people you care about! Because people and Pokémon, they work together to fight back whatever keeps us from reaching the path towards tomorrow! You think you're unstoppable? No! You're just a point on the endless spiral path! Just like me, just like Riley, like everyone else! You think I kept fighting through all the worlds I've seen because I wanted to be a hero? Hell no! I fought to my last breath, every single hour of my life since the Heavens Shattered, just to make it home so I would have a future! So the people I care about could have a future! So YOU could have a future! You're not a hero, you're my friend, and you've done your part leading the path towards tomorrow! Because it's not a single molecule of the screw on a drill that powers it, it's all of those molecules working together that breaks through the walls in our way! That's the power you accessed when you fought Giratina! AND THAT'S HOW A DRILL WORKS!"

Lucas's face was matted with sweat and bright red. Hilbert had slumped against the wall, and tears openly ran down his face.

His voice was low, coming out barely above a whisper. "You're my friend, Hilby. You're one of my best friends. You're a brother to me. You can't just… abandon us! You can't abandon Barry, you can't abandon Dawn, you can't abandon your mother, you- You've touched so many lives, so many people care about you. And what about your Pokémon? Your partners? Will you just abandon them too? Or will you force them to come with you on the journey that never ends? You need to stop. You've won. You've created a new Heaven, you've mended the world that Team Galactic broke. So what if it's more dangerous? Even if power comes to the world's worst enemies, it will just as easily come to a hero to oppose them! That's what happened to you, isn't it? You need to put your trust in other people, it's a group effort! I trusted in you, so now it's your turn to trust in me."

"I…" Hilbert hesitated, the words choking in his throat before coming out in a sob, further breaking down. "I just wanted to… I just wanted to protect people!"

"And you have, alright? If there's a threat that needs you, and there's no one else, then go- But you're not alone! There's always someone else! Trust in humanity! Trust in the spirit of everyone and everything in this world! It's not bystander syndrome, it's the truth! You have to put your ideals together with the truth, that there are people other than you that can be heroes and that there are people in this world who care about you! You have to know that too, because for all the faux-egoism and hot blood, you believe what you're saying! You believe in the truth, you believe in your ideals, because the two swirl together, white, black, and with your spirit, they become platinum! They tip the drill that leads towards tomorrow, not just for you, but for everyone else!"
Lucas's breath was coming out ragged, and except for Hilbert's sobs, the room was completely silent.

"Because you're not alone, Hilby. You've never been alone. We've always had your back. Everyone."

Lucas pulled Hilbert away from the wall into a hug. "We're always here. We've always been here. And we'll always be here. Always, for you."

Five pairs of arms joined them, as the others made it into a group hug.

"Yeah, man. Always."

"Me too. Always."

"Yes! Always."

"...Always…"

"Might as well. Always."

"You see, Hilby? You understand."

"I… I do. Thank you." Hilbert fully smiled, even as his hair clung to his face. "Thank you all."

Team Galactic's trial was not publicly broadcast. Their identities were known by few, and the part they played in the Shattered Heavens incident was known to even fewer. However, in the coming months, Azelf, Uxie, and Mesprit were spotted, completely healthy, celebrating in the night sky above the lakes of Sinnoh.

Saturn became a subdued businessman, though many environmentalist groups listed him among their donors. Unknowingly, of course. He was something of a philanthropist, guiding his company towards ethical practices and fairness. He shied away from the public eye, stating on the rare occasion he was spoken to by a reporter, that he didn't deserve such frivolities.

Mars became a normal Pokémon Trainer, choosing to regain the youth she lost in her devotion to Team Galactic to adventure around the region and find understanding within the cycle of violence that she had perpetrated. She still enjoyed fighting, but became more honorable, outright refusing to battle on anything less than even ground.

Jupiter was not seen for a very long time. The brainwashing dealt to her by her leader was intense, though they were not her only issues. When she reintegrated with the outside world, she settled down in Solaceon Town as an aide to the nursery, finding purpose in creating potential in others. Oftentimes, she would be seen just watching the unhatched eggs with an unbridled curiosity.

Perhaps they all could have been something more. Perhaps less. But they did change for the better.

Charon was getting on in his years. He was an old man tired of the world and wished to see progress. He was not brainwashed, he simply used Team Galactic to achieve his own goal of becoming Legendary. His goal would never come to fruition, his drive lost to the sands of time.

Cyrus was not seen again. The leader of Team Galactic was a public figure, though disconnected from much of the external grunt work. However, his absence was noted by few, and the memories of his ideology faded away. His new world would never be created.

When people become unable to see the errors of their ways, they become unable to change. The ideals held in one's heart, whether warm or cold, must be able to change and adapt. The truth is vague, yet constant, and must be searched for far and wide. People make mistakes, and mistakes do not define a person. A person's reaction to the mistakes they make is what defines them. Those who change shall not be judged. Those who do not simply establish a pattern.

Team Galactic was not built on evil. It was built of misled ideologies, the flaws of man, and selfish drive. Many grunts were young people, some of which had simply plateaued in their chosen skill and become disillusioned. When the world suffered, most snapped out of their dogmatic thinking about it and helped the people around them. Most of them, too, would realize the errors in their ways. Were there some that did not change? Yes. But they defined their paths in life long before reaching the point of no return. Those who do not wish to change, don't.

The organization, as it was formerly known, crumbled. Saturn employed many of them, as they had nowhere else to go, having burned too many bridges. A massive amount of "lost" Pokéballs were sent to Pokémon Centers across Sinnoh.

There are few bad people in this world, in any world. There are simply vast amounts of people who make varying levels of stupid mistakes and trip upon their own paths.

But let's return to that little holiday party in the town of Twinleaf. Six members of Team Black stood in a small circle as the night grew longer. More lights were put up, more food was delivered and baked, and more cheer was spread. 2009 was nearly over, after all, and the last few months had been a struggle for everybody. However, when in need, neighbors were helped by neighbors, Pokémon helped people, people helped Pokémon. Friendships were forged over the time of weeks that would likely last a lifetime. Houses were rebuilt, cities were reorganized, and it seemed that Sinnoh had become a much smaller world. If you mentioned someone you knew in Snowpoint and you lived in Veilstone while talking to someone in Jubilife, they'd probably be able to guess exactly who you were talking about. Truly, a good turn was done daily.

As the night dragged on, they felt anxious, of course. Hilbert had visited many times since that fateful day in August. Around two days a week, he'd drop out of the sky from Golurk's back, catch up with whoever he was speaking to, and then repeat for the next few hours. He spoke stiffly and acted very out of place, but he was making the effort. He flinched away when Barry offered him a fist bump, but after a few seconds, he smiled and returned it. When Dawn gave him a hug, it did take a few moments to reciprocate, but he eventually would. When he showed Cheryl pictures of all the Legendary Pokémon he'd seen, and she'd show him what she'd found in the Orange Islands or the South American tropics, he'd stop and glance over his shoulder before taking a closer look. When Marley asked him what kind of birthday gift Lucas would like next March, he looked confused before blinking and recommending a holographic Pokédex projector. When he'd speak with Riley, he kept his distance as if sensing danger, before remembering that Riley was his friend, not a potential enemy. When he'd speak with Lucas, though, he'd act exactly the same as he had before. He made the effort to reconnect with all of his friends, even with the memories of a thousand lifetimes, and in doing so, he became a hero to his people. And perhaps, when you give everything you can, to the people you care about and accept that they care about you in turn, even if you could give it all to the world expecting nothing back, that's heroism. Because being a hero isn't about ideals. It's about how you treat the people around you.

And thus, as the clock struck midnight, from over a hill in the forest, a visible aura fell from the sky, a great drill of light cresting from across the night sky.

And a minute later, to a mountainous cheer, Hilbert walked out of the snow-covered woods, windswept and tired, but with a smile on his face.

Golurk, from Hilbert's early days, had always been his partner. He would follow the boy forever and be his sword and shield. And so he did. The urban legend of the Aura Guardian was well documented, a man dressed as a Golurk saving people and fighting aura-using villains, with a tiny Golett face for a symbol, but few knew the truth. Many assumed it to be some sort of cosplay or trick, and the legend only grew. Golurk-Platinum, as Hilbert referred to the form, was about teamwork, and nothing else.

Abra was always a psychopath, though from the day he met Hilbert on, he became a psychopath that fought for good. Hilbert assured him that he didn't need to Teleport them everywhere and that he could go on his own journey. Abra did so, choosing to chase the Monkey King of the north, the legendary Infernape known as Sun Wu Kong, and training to best him with a single punch.

Garchomp and Tyranitar became very good parents. They started out as actors, born and raised only to fight another, but found purpose in Hilbert's cause and his kindness. Taking the talk of drills and progress to heart, the two soon had a baby Larvitar that when looked at closely, was a slightly deeper shade of green.

Lucario, or the one known as All Star to her fellow Pokémon, became the mediator between the Lucario Kingdom and the human settlements in the mountains. When the humans needed help, the Lucario did all that they could. And when there was a cave-in at the peak of a secretive mountain, word spread and the humans gathered their Steel-types. In times long passed, humans and Pokémon once ate at the same table. In times that would soon come, this factoid would become true once again.

Honedge underwent a similar quest to Hilbert, not necessarily one of heroism, but one of justice. She would shrink herself down and travel across the world, hearing all sorts of rumors about trouble and those who would start wars. And eventually, she found herself in Unova, where after investigating a legend, she located three Pokémon known as the Swords of Justice. And in years afterward, the three Legendary musketeers would become not four, but five.

Scolipede, formerly Whirlipede, desired to increase their own speed. It participated in many races; Pokéathelons, speed trials, even a Grand Prix off the coast of Sinnoh. Its path was mundane compared to some, exciting compared to others, but it still had a purpose.

However, unchangeably tied together by their past, they reunited at a party in a certain town in Sinnoh, for one last hurrah before going their separate ways.

Gurren Lagann OST - Happily Ever After

"Hey, Hilby!" Barry shouted as the boy came down the hill. "Over here!"

Hilbert walked over, greeting the people that he passed as he approached. "Hey, Barry. Hey, everyone. Happy holidays."

"You too, man! I'm glad you could get here!"

"All of us are," Lucas added.

"Yeah, definitely!"

"Of course."

"...Me too…"

"Yes, absolutely."

"Thank you all. I… don't know what I did to deserve it, but thank you."

Hilbert's hand tapped his Pokéball belt, which was shaking intensely. "Alright, I know you guys want a battle, but settle down." It wasn't a euphemism, but the Pokéballs were shaking as they had made times before.

"Oh, did you catch some new Pokémon, Hilby?" Dawn asked, leaning over to look.

"No, I was running around the last few days to get the band back together. All eight of them, they're all sort of doing their own thing. I'm glad to see that they could keep moving like I could. Everyone is a bit anxious, because I kinda sort of promised them a really good battle. Seems like Garchomp and Tyranitar will be sitting out though, they had a Larvitar over in Solaceon, did you know that?"

"Aw… I always knew Garchomp was a big softy."

"I knew there was something going on with them, but…"

"You're not exactly known for your ability to read the room."

"Something like that. They're here, but they'll sit on the sidelines."

"So," Barry jumped in, "Who are you planning to fight?"

"Battle, Barry, not fight. It's different." Hilbert got that far-away look in his eyes again. "There's honor in a battle, an even playing field. So that's what I want. I've seen, been in, too many fights." His eyes brightened and he put on a smile. "But that wasn't your question. See, while I was traveling, I figured that even though the League conference got canceled, I could still qualify, just for fun." Hilbert reached into his ever-present blue jacket and pulled out a case.

"See, most of them, I got from Gym Leaders I helped out in other regions, but I did make a pit stop in Canalave and Sunyshore." He clicked open the case, revealing exactly why they weren't displayed on his jacket.

"...That's quite a few," Cheryl said, after a few moments.

"Yeah. I mean, seriously, you do what anyone else would have done when some kid falls down a well, and suddenly, you're a local hero and being given the key to the city. And then there was that time in Kalos when I fought a giant robot made of ice, and then I had to tag team a Colosseum battle with Golurk in Orre because the owner was a jerk... Well, you get the idea."

"You've really gotten around, huh? You don't talk about it when you visit," Barry said.

"Eh, separation of work and personal life. And I'd rather just hear about the paths everyone else is taking."

Hilbert looked off down the street, past a few dozen people. "Is that…?" His aura flared around his eyes, bending the light around them like a telescope. "Oh, it is. So my plan might work. Come on, everyone!" Hilbert ran off, which is to say, disappeared from view with a small hint of where he was going.

Down the street, as the others caught up to him, Hilbert was speaking to the Champion of Sinnoh, Cynthia. The words they exchanged were unheard, however, the blonde woman smiled and beckoned her Garchomp over.

Minutes later, in the empty lots that were common in Twinleaf town, grassy fields with the stars shining overhead, the two stood opposite each other.

The stars in the sky were not their enemies. They were just stars.

"Garchomp, Metal Claw!"

The immense Dragon-type lashed forward, scales glinting in the moonlight. A silver glow gathers itself along its fins as it sliced across Golurk's front.

The golem held up its arms, clods of amorphous stone flying across the grass. It slid back, gouging deep into the ground.

"Golurk, Icy Wind!"

Glacial air swirled down from the cool night sky, turning water vapor into mists of ice and concentrating around Garchomp.

"Break through! Flame Charge!"

The ice melted in an instant and turned to steam as an orange and purple flame engulfed Garchomp. It slammed into Golurk, the flames doing little but the impact caving the armor inwards.

"Metal Slam!"

Golurk took the flaming dragon in its arms, body turning a platinum gray. They swung Garchomp about, trails of steam spiraling into the air, before throwing it across the field into the earth.

Garchomp got up from the dirt, and Cynthia's gaze became hardened.

"Alright then. Garchomp!" She raised a charm to the sky, a golden spiked ring with a Key Stone in the center. "MEGA EVOLVE!"

Garchomp's cry pierced the silent night, as it exploded into a light of blue and orange. Its fins and arms melted together and turned an arterial red, glimmering in the low flames ignited in the plains. Its stance grew taller, its body was coated in teeth-like spikes, and its eyes grew frenzied.

"Now it's a fight!" Hilbert threw out his arm, setting into his stance. Both hands clenched, angled to the sky like a boxer's. "Golurk!"

"Clank."

"GIGA…"

"Charge forward, Garchomp! Break the drill before it can form!"

Aura was already swirling into Golurk's arm from the air around them, a faint purple tinge.

"DRILLLLLL…"

Garchomp shot forward, there one minute, gone the next. The air behind it popped as a vacuum opened behind it, and it ignited into flames. It reared back, claw poised to strike only inches away from the silver golem.

"BREAAAAAAAAK!"

AN:

Well, that's it, everyone. Thank you all for reading. This is the good ending. Hilbert has chosen to be a hero to his people, the people that care about him, even if it means he can't always be a hero for the world. I'm sorry it took so long for this epilogue to come out, I wasn't review-begging or anything, I was just busy. And lazy, so there's really no excuse.

There's not much I can say here that I haven't said already. This chapter has been a bit of an author tract, and if that took you out of it, I apologize.

And now, for something a little different.

In a dark, dusty room, a young man stirred. At least, as much as he could when it seemed like his skin was trying to tear itself free of his muscles. A thousand cuts laced his body, beginning to drip red from the sudden movement. He cried out in pain, and his eyes shot open. A flurry of white hair flew from his eyes, spotted with red. Tears gathered at the corners of his eyes as he tried to push himself into a sitting position.

The floor he had found himself on was dirty and covered in nails, though it still resembled his bedroom.

"Where…" he tried to say, though his lips cracked. "Where am I?"

The Alchemist is now live on my profile. It's going to be more serious but set in the same universe. The world has changed. Things are not as expected.