~Vulnerable Whispers~

I felt my ears perk to the jingle of the rings as they clacked together. My eyes dart down as my fingers rush over the slightly tinted gold rings. I push the cool metal against my soft cream colored chest, silencing them. My eyes dart behind me, my heart pounding against the walls of my rib cage.

She can't find out…I won't let her…

The memories flow through my mind like a rapid river, getting my mouth to form a small smile.

*FlashBack*

"Sam, stop it!" Summer huffed, her face a bright cheri red. The words can hardly escape her mouth as she gasps for air. I am hunched over her, relentlessly badgering her with a soft smile. The straw grappled into her blond hair, brushing against my red auburn hair.

"Tell me… come on hun; you know I'm not going to stop until you do!" She continues to squirm, tears streaming down her face. A wide smile sits on her face.

"You…you tell me first!" I shake my head, smiling at her commanding expression. Her eyes are wide, hands pinned underneath my weight. She is in absolutely no position to fight me off.

"I don't think you are in any position to be ordering me around… oh fearless leader." I chuckle letting up for a quick moment. She breathes heavily, trying to get a few words in with every breath.

"Okay! Okay… you win! You… win! Please…please just stop…just stop tickling me." She releases a small smile. I smirk in victory, fist pumping into the air. My eyes dart down to her. She pouts.

"You cheated…you were supposed to say it first." She mutters. But I smile regardless, pulling her up as I stand.

"Say it…" She rolls her eyes and smiled.

"It was your turn to say it first today…" She buried her face into my chest before looking up at me with her brown eyes. I brush the small strands of yellow hay out of her hair, my hand cradles her cheek, brushing against it is my thumb. Her hand runs across it, fingers lapping over mine.

"I love you…" She whispers gently. I kiss her nose lightly at the words. I pull away slightly to see she smiles as she wiggles her nose.

"I love you too…" I say, just knowing all too well how true the words are.

*End of Flashback*

It was simple things, the little things we did together that made me so happy. Arceus only knows.

I chuckle softly to myself, I'm such a romantic. I slide the rings behind my neck for a moment. In my tan paw sat my golden locket. Now it usually sat between the two rings. But a lot had changed in the past year and a half. I had left my mysterious symbol on the hidden island. An empty place sat for a long time...but now it had been replaced by my and Summer's photo.

In the photo, we were so close, gazing in each other's eyes. A small smile rolled on my face as I held her close. She had her hands on my shoulders, leaning her for head on mine. That picture had been taken on our first anniversary. Now everyone I care about is in my locket.

She tapped my shoulder and I immediately turned, hearing the clink of the rings as they hid behind my navy blue bandana. I nervously smile as her ears twitch, oh please tell me she didn't hear.

"..." She gazed up at me; her cheeks are still stained a bright red from earlier.

Distract her!

"So...where were we?" I asked, slightly surprised at my boldness as I began leaning toward her. A smile danced across my face, my gaze connecting with her brown irises. She bit her bottom lip, her eyes bouncing between my eyes and the floor.

"I..." She trailed off. Her pupils constricted. She let out a deep sigh as her fingers laced together. She's nervous about something. It's all that over thinking she does...it frightens her. She doesn't know something...she's in the dark...but about what?

For a moment, we stood in silence. Nothing but the soft chirping of birds and soft rustling of the bushes were heard. I gulped, feeling my clammy hands tremble nervously as they came together. I chuckle to myself nervously as my finger runs down her red cheek. Her perked ears flatten against her head for a moment, eyes widening slightly.

"Summer...relax... I'm right here... You can tell me." I said, taking her hand. I felt her fingers lace with mine, her grip tightening as she looked into my eyes.

"I'm just not sure about something..." I stifle a laugh, covering my mouth with my other paw. I tried to cheer her up, make light of whatever she was thinking.

"You, not sure about something? That's a first!" I said sarcastically as I bumped into her shoulder. She let out a small laugh; her right paw covered her mouth.

"I'm being serious...and looks who's talking'!" I could feel my hand wrap around her waist. Her yellow paws are pressed against my shoulders. She smiled softly, the serious tone fading from her voice.

"Well maybe we should stop talking..." I whispered playfully. She smiled, her brown eyes swirling with such a familiar emotion. I leaned in but her gaze quickly turned away from me for a moment. I exhale slowly, pressing my lips against her black tipped ear, tracing along its yellow exterior as her grip tightened on my shoulders.

"The days not over...I promise you that." I whisper. She turned her gaze to me, a unrecognizable emotion running through her brown eyes.

Why are you looking at me like that? Did I say something wrong?

I can feel my chest tighten at the thought, but she sighed in relief. I could feel my once tensed muscles relax. I gaze upon her chocolate eyes, seeing that they are filled with… stars?

Maybe she wants to hear you talk about marriage? No …it's better to keep it a surprise. Besides, she's happy…a bit on edge, but happy to be with you…she'll say yes…she has to say yes… just ask her.

I gulp, now's a good chance…but…it's not the right one…the end of the day…at the end of the perfect day…that's when…that's when I'll ask her.

I smile, my ear flicking toward the sound of laughter. There was soft giggling in the distance. I turned my gaze toward the direction of town spotting the familiar face in an instant. The children from the day care ran up the streets of Treasure Town toward us.

An excited Growlithe howled at the sky, prancing toward us with his pink tongue flopping in the wind. The sun was absorbed by the black stripes that ran across his orange coat, his cream colored tail swishing in excitement as his blue eyes looked back at the eevee.

"Nixon! Get back here!" Called the eevee. She trailed closely behind him. Her purple eye's gleamed in the sunlight, brimming with such focus. Her cream tipped tail was held high as she tackled the growlithe to the floor.

"Gotcha! Hey Chasmin, I caught hm'." She yelped, pushing off him. She glanced back at the third member of their group as the growlithe tried to get up from under her weight.

"He just never learns…" The cyndaquil muttered. He just waddled forward in a calm and steady manner. His blue and tan face had a neutral expression. He poked the others, who continued to wrestle around in the dirt, and they quickly looked up toward us. They quickly smiled as they saw me.

"Sam! Its us! Nixon, Piper and Chasmin!" The growlithe shouted. He turned to the eevee and cyndaquil who smiled as he acknowledged them.

"Piper, get a load of th-ouf!" The growlithe was immediately silenced by the Eevee who pushed the growlithe aside. He skid along the floor, his tail wagging as he perked his head up. I turned my gaze to the eevee.

She jumped up and down excitedly. Her brown face looked so beat red with excitement. Her cream tipped tail slapped the floor, squeaking and squealing as her eyes looked at Summer and I.

"I knew it! I just knew it!" Her tail wagged, her paws bouncing up of the floor. She was so happy, you could see the happy gleam in her purple eyes. It was almost as if she was in love, with a moment. She really is a hopeless romantic.

"K-knew what?" I replied, feeling my face blare a bright red. Her eyes were glued on my current position…to which I hadn't done anything about.

"The lustful embrace! The loving tearful expression! The smile on your face! You're going to propose!" I felt myself cringe, my teeth locking together. I felt my tight grip loosen on Summer's waist, releasing her except her yellow paw. She still locked fingers with me. I let out a shaky breath. My heart now pulsed rapidly as I wracked my brain, trying to think of a way out.

"I-I have no idea what you're talking about! A-and what's this about proposal!? There's no proposal here!" Nixon examined my fingers, frowning with a slight shaking of his head.

"He's right… he hasn't proposed…" I sighed, happy the subject was passing.

"Yet." With that, he was jumping in a circle, with Piper by his side as they glanced at us. They smiled, giggling to themselves.

"~Their getting married! Their getting married!~" They chanted to themselves. I felt the blood rush to my face, my heart pounding furiously against my chest. The cyndaquil Chasmin sighed.

"You don't have to explain yourself to them. If you don't want to get married that's fine..." I could feel Summer's grip tighten a bit. I noticed out of the corner of my eye how red her face was turning. It's too much uncertainty for her.

She might get suspicious! Say something that gives her a hint…

"Look I actually-" The thought had crossed my mind…just say that. I opened my mouth but now words came and the less I said, the worse it seemed.

"Don't want to get married?" I opened my mouth feeling my heart beat so fast. I wanted the whole marriage thing to be a surprise...

Yes you do! So…confess it, right here, right now. You know what happens when you wait on stuff like this!

"Well actually I-" Summer's grip tightened even more, I could feel my fingers beginning to throb. My eyes noticed Piper and Nixon looking at Chasmin with a frown. They must have been angry about the comment…good to know I have supporters…I…I guess.

"Lay off him Chasmin! Sam knows what he wants!" Nixon smiled, nudging Piper.

"Right Sam?" She gazed at us with her purple eyes, for a moment she wouldn't stop her stare on my and Summer's intertwined paws. A small smile appeared on her fluffy brown face and she sighed dreamingly, her paws seeming to melt as she sighed into the floor.

"Yeah...I-I know." I sheepishly said. I had thought my cowardice days were over, but the thought still makes me as nervous as the multiple attempts at joining the guild without a partner. My eyes glanced to my side, my cheeks growing warm. She looked away, her free hand shyly scratching her head.

I just tugged Summer along as the kids follow me up the stairs toward the guild. They pranced around me in a circle, happily chanting on about the proposal.

"First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes-" I gasped.

"Can we just stop talking about this!?" I felt myself yelp suddenly. My breathing hitched, almost to a complete halt. I felt my grip tighten on Summer's fingers.

"Sam...Can I ask you about-" Summer squeaked softly. Piper giggled. Summer's face burned a bright red as she stopped talking. I could sense Summer's uneasy feeling, possibly the way the kids were acting.

The growlithe and eevee bolted up the stairs singing to themselves. I heard a small voice came from beside me as my feet shuffled up the stone chiseled stairs.

"Oh what an interesting twist. She was going to propose to you!" Chasmin quietly muttered. I could feel an annoyed growl escape my lips.

"Or maybe she wants to hear you say you want to marry her." Nixon ran back and pushed Chasmin up the stairs. His soft orange head rammed into the cyndaquil, pushing him up the stairs quickly.

"I really don't know what you're talking about guys...really...the thought has never crossed my mind." I lied. I didn't want Summer to know... its spoils the fun of her not knowing.

"Don't mind him...Chasmin here is just being cranky because things haven't really gone his way."

"Oh really?" I muttered. Chasmin waddled up the last of the steps.

"I didn't get adopted! So what!? None of you did!" Piper sighed, her tail brushed against Chasmin's face. The cyndaquil huffed air as the cream tipped tail ran along his face.

"Yeah but we don't care... besides, now we can make our own team!" Piper gleefully cried.

"And don't forget live on our own!" Nixon added as he trotted up the last of the steps. The three young Pokémon turned, dashing toward the great wigglytuff tent. I quickly called out to them.

"Wait! Why do you want to be an explorer?" They turned, fury resting in their eyes. I gulped as they turned. Nixon jumped in the air charring the floor with his fire before standing up straight with his white fluffy chest popped out. His tail slightly wagged, his head held high.

"Adventure!" He shouted.

Piper simply walked beside him, melting into the floor as she stared at my paw. She smiled, her eyes looking dazed and relaxed. She looked like a swooning teenager, looking at their favorite 'hot' celebrity.

"Romance..."

Chasmin crossed his arms, looking focused as he huffed out fire.

"Legendary Locations!" He let his lips curl into a smirk. I felt myself tilt my head...that looks familiar.

But without another word, they dart into the tent. I sigh. But I turn to Summer, who stares out ahead blankly. Her body is shaking slightly, eyes running with emotion.

"Sorry about all that Summ..." She let go of my hand. Her slipping finger made my paw want to ball up tighter. I could feel my chest tighten. My heart pounding as she left my side. I could feel the pain of separation, knowing that she would never leave unless something was wrong…

If that's the case…why would what the kids say bother you? Is there something you need to tell me? Where are you going?

"Don't let what Chasmin said bother you..." I quickly reply, hoping that may have been the reason. She shoots a quick glance behind her, her brown eyes dart to my eyes and they meet. All at once, everything is still.

"It's not about what Chasmin said..." She muttered, jumping down the hole for the guild. The air silently whips across the cliff top. I silently curse myself… I should have not said anything.


"We…We have something to tell you." The words left the lips of the pink bunny like creature stood in front of us. I felt my gaze pull away from the floor, glancing up as I heard the melancholy in his voice. I noticed his sea green eyes blankly watched the teams that faced him. I felt my ears flatten against my head as my eyes looked to Wigglytuff's paws.

They were locked together tightly, and I glanced to his eyes. The sea green orbs were glossed over, emotion blocked by the soft fluorescent light that bounced off of it. His ears moved from side to side, a bit unlike the guild master I had come to know who was usually brimming with a positive attitude.

I could see out of the corner of my eye Sam's silver gaze cast a glance toward Chatot who ruffled his feathers, a nervous look sitting in his black beady eyes. Chatot looked toward his life-long partner and friend, the two exchanging a nod to alert us all on the task at hand. With that, the two looked dead ahead, Chatot clearing his voice and the guild master's eyes focus on the faces in front of him.

"It's important that you all realize the danger that comes along with being an explorer." Chatot chirped; I could feel my eyebrow rise at the statement. I felt my fingers tremble, knowing that the two never addressed us in a serious manner that would cause massive panic, but their gazes told me otherwise.

What's going on? Why do they look at us like that?

I felt myself nervously turn back to Sam, who returned the nervous glance. His eyes seemed to be reassuring, a safe net from the crashing reality around me. I could still see my hands shaking, so I backed into him, gripping his hand tightly. He had lowered his posture a bit, his breath hitting the back of my ear and gliding across my red cheek. I could feel the thoughts rush through my head.

He's thinking you are being such a sissy right now… a silly girl that needs to be protected. How dare you let yourself look so cowardly in front of the other teams!? Show some back bone!

I tensed at the thought, straightening up and releasing my fingers. I quickly clasped my hands together, feeling paws touch my shoulders instead. I could still feel the soft tingle of my right ears, knowing Sam was only a few centimeters behind.

"Can I talk to you? Please…it's really important." He whispered, his voice stressing the 'really'.

"Now's really not a good time…" I muttered. Did he really mean what he had said earlier? How can he even say that after everything we have been through? Maybe he just said that to throw me off?

"But it's important," He reassured, but all I did was continue gazing back to Wigglytuff. I could see the slight fear that lay in Chatot's eyes. He looked to his friend for comfort, only to see the blank emerald orbs staring out blankly.

"Teams… we understand your endless love to explore, finding new ways to see what has yet to be seen, explore what is yet to be charted, discover what is yet to be found." I cautiously eyed the room, seeing most of the teams nodding their head in agreement. Most of the teams seemed to have that uncertain look in their eyes, their gaze cast to the guild master.

I know there is more to that sentence, I can see Chatot shaking as he clears his throat.

"But… we are sad to say we have noticed…teams are starting to go missing." I noticed the guild members mutter a simple 'oh'. The graduated teams had shrugged, their eyes shifting from serious to slightly layback. Even myself had slightly relaxed, that's what this is about?

"That's what we are down here for!? Guild master, in all honesty, teams go off the chart all the time, this isn't a reason to call for an emergency or panic!" I heard Loudred holler, chuckling a bit. Sunflora tapped her leaves together, her lips forming a confident smirk.

"I agree, teams are often gone of periods of time when exploring, this is a natural thing." She mused. I shifted my gaze to the guildmaster's eyes, now focused and sharp.

"That is usually the case, but it seems that many teams have started to go missing. It's not just high ranking teams or the newbies getting lost on a journey Sunflora," Chatot chimed in. He then took out a badge and showed it to us, flashing the winged symbol of exploring. He pointed to the colored dot in the center.

"There is a chart scanner, it shows the level of activity you guys do when exploring, this is why we can transport you guys out of a dungeon when you guys are in a jam." Everyone nodded as Chatot continued explaining.

"But it is peculiar, the level of activity is short… like they didn't physically fight for long…but then the transmission states that everything appears to be fine…except that the signal doesn't change after that…and the teams don't appear to be moving…they just kinda sit there." I could feel an odd tingle run up my spine, my breathing hastening. My heart began to pick up speed as I cringed, my muscles tensing up.

Why? What could be the cause?

"This could always be a malfunction, and there are status changes and other factors…but its unusual for this to happen to all these teams at once…so we have a test for you guys just in case." Everyone looks to one another suspiciously, their eyes trailing from one to another.

"This isn't the grandmaster of all things bad is it?" I mutter. Wigglytuff's eyes slightly widen, a smile rolls across his pink fluffy cheeks. His eyes dart toward me and I cringe.

"Our first volunteer everyone," He cheered, he then gestured for us to follow him. He led us all down the hall way into our old room, pushing the stack of hay aside. There lay a wooden door. Underneath that hay that my team and I slept under had been a door?

Well…I'm surprised I didn't notice.

"So…Are we all going to go?" Wigglytuff nodded, jumping down and turning on the lights. I jumped down and nervously walked behind him noticing the battle field.

"You had a training field here this whole time? Why not just train us here…" I muttered, remembering the training camp.

"Its important to meet new people Summer, I hope you understand why that's important." He stopped, turning to me as the others stood behind me.

"See those bleachers over there? Have a seat…" We all turned, but Wigglytuff called out.

"Not you Summer…" I felt my ears flatten against my head. My fingers nervously laced together as I turned to meet Wigglytuff's gaze. Wigglytuff then waved to the corner.

"Alright guys, get out here." He called, and out onto the field, stepped a familiar growlithe, eevee, and cyndaquil. I gulped as they walked toward me,

Is he expecting me to take on these three? No offence, but it wouldn't be a contest or even a fair fight; I might end up hurting someone.

"Here stands Nixon, Chasmin and Piper… three new recruits hoping to earn their place among the ranks of the guild. Unfortunately…due to the worry of our teams, I have advised against their joining. Sad, yes, but personally volunteered to help with this demonstration, knowing that this temporary ruling will not be forever."

So he didn't let them make a team… poor guys. But he did say it was temporary… so they'll be okay, besides, that twinkle has yet to leave their eyes. I just know that this isn't going to stop them.

"Come here you three…" They stepped forward and Wigglytuff encased a green light around all three. He gave them a nod, and they scattered apart behind me.

"This is the exercise, you shall protect these three…at all cost…and as an added measure…Sam…" Sam glanced around at the others nervously, his silver eyes wide at the mention of his name. He slowly walked forward; the gravel below his feet shifted the dirt as the afternoon sun poured into the seaside stadium.

"Y-yes, guildmaster." He advised Sam to scoot back.

"You are to provide no help…" Sam nodded, understanding his place and took a step back, sitting behind Nixon. Should an attack come at Nixon, it won't hit Sam so that made me relax a bit.

"I am here to test your skills, this is an added precaution to the missing teams... Good luck!" Wigglytuff cheered. I bit my lip nervously... He wants me to fight him...to see if I can protect myself?

"Shall we begin…?" Wigglytuff asked, his eyes fixing on me in an oddly focused manner. I found myself cringing at the change in his happy attitude. When he was serious about something, it was impossible to deny that it was incredible.

I took a glance back at Sam, who gave a heartfelt smile. I sighed, knowing his eyes told me not to get too thrashed.

Be safe…

I nodded to Chatot who brought up both of his wings.

"Here we go guys! You ready!?" Chatot squawked, the others who sat on the bleachers cheered loudly. They just made noise, not really cheering for anyone in particular.

Gee thanks guys…I appreciate the enthusiasm to see the guild master kill me.

"You can do it babe!" Sam called; Nixon sat beside him and poked his side playfully with his glossy orange paw. I glanced to Sam as his cheeks tinted a bright red. He quickly glanced to me, his eyes rushing back to Nixon quickly.

Hm… what aren't you telling me?

"Just get on with it!" Nixon yelled, and I could hear the faint bell ring as I whipped my head toward Wigglytuff. I wasn't even prepared for the great ball of light that flew in my direction. I slid down into the dirt, looking over me as I heard a soft crash in the background.

I felt my eyes immediately dart back, sure that I must have failed this exercise. I gripped the soft dirt, charging at Wigglytuff, my cheeks sparking furiously.

I wasn't even ready!

I jumped up, crashing into the floor with my electricity. The floor broke apart, pieces coming up from the floor. Electricity trickled around it for a moment. I could see the twinkling of the children's eyes as they seemed more protected.

That should help buy me some time…

I shook the thought away as I heard the pattering of feet. I quickly hid behind one of the rocks, peeking to see Wigglytuff.

"Protecting them with nature…interesting…" Wigglytuff brought his hands together, a soft green light formed a ball. The ringing energy of the ball was drowned out as he began to sing a gentle tune. I felt my ears perk to his voice, feeling my eyes grow heavy.

"The idea of getting a cursed thought out of your head…"

Sing…cheater…

His song immediately stopped as my head touched the floor. My ears drooped to the floor, as I sighed in complete bliss. I saw his eyes direct toward the children and I pushed myself off the floor. He leapt up, charging toward Piper with the ball.

"Allowing too much time shall be another's doom…" Wigglytuff said.

Piper sat patiently, knowing no real harm would come to her, but the fear lay in her violet eyes as she knew I might fail.

I quickened my pace as I quickly charged after him, jumping into the air. Electricity encased my yellow paw as gravity pulled me toward him. The sharp chirp of the electricity filled the air as I descended. The smack silenced the room as my fist connected with his soft pink back. He toppled over as I tackled him to the floor.

Everyone in the room gasped as Wigglytuff turned over, grabbing me by the collar and a bright orange beam of light appeared. I squirmed but his grip only tightened. I cringed…I deserve this for earlier. I could see a well deserved smile appear across Wigglytuff's face.

"Attack in secret…"

Son of a-

My thought was interrupted as the orange light enveloped me. I could feel myself slid across the floor. I could feel the sting from the scratches run along my back and I hissed in pain. I grit my teeth, squinting my eyes as Wigglytuff stood over me with a shadow ball.

Seriously this guy is gunna-wait!"

I could hear a screech as I puffed my cheeks out tightly, pushing myself off the floor in retreat. I flipped my bangs to the side, slipping to get back in position as Wigglytuff stood. His eyes were still locked on me. The emerald orbs seemed curious, but he had failed to even remotely look tired. I could hear the heavy panting ring in my ears, knowing that I was on the losing end.

My legs wobbled, shaking as I brought my hands to my side. A smirk slid across my face, my target's eyes shifting toward me.

Do it!

I felt my fingers pulse along the floor, encasing myself in electricity. He smirked, puffing his cheeks tightly. I could see how they turned bright red, his eyes watering as he held it in. He drew back his pink arms, blowing fire in my direction. I rolled, continuing to push forward with volt tackle.

The smile ran across my face as his fire breathing stopped and I slammed into him, his pink arms wrapped around me as we plummeted to the floor and he slung me aside.

I let out a defeated groan as I slid across the dirt floor. I sighed, opening my eyes to see Chatot ruffle his feathers, gesturing to stand. I felt pain shoot up my arms and legs as I pushed off the floor. My voice let out a raspy sounding groan, feeling my lungs wheeze as my eyes tried to fix on him.

Wigglytuff smiled, dancing around with a incantation. And I could hear thunder roll over the arena, rain dripped onto the floor and I smirked, big mistake.

I puffed my cheeks, letting the electricity run across the water. Wigglytuff raised his hands, letting a green light encase him. The electricity dispersed as it touched the green bubble and he giggled.

I sighed as he charged toward me, twirling as he began to sing again. I could feel my eyes get heavy; shaking my head in the hopes I could stay awake. But I curled into a ball and almost fell asleep. I was slowly picked up by my neck and was slapped across the face. I could feel the sting rush across my cheeks.

Wake up slap… now I know that's just a cheap shot.

He dropped me to the floor and I just groaned.

"C-Chatot…I surrender." I muttered putting my hands up in defeat and Wigglytuff looked to Chatot.

"Time! How long?" Chatot chirped, showing the watch he was carrying.

"About eight minutes and thirty two seconds…" Wigglytuff turned to me, throwing me a blue berry. I glanced at the blue berry, my eyes widening as I realized it was an oran berry.

"Pass…" I blinked, rubbing the dirt off my cheek. I blink in surprise.

"Pass?"

"Eight minutes gives the others enough time to make an escape, or at least time to ready themselves…so pass." I grit my teeth as I dragged my feet across the floor. I could see Sam give an thumbs up and I walked over to him.

"That looked brutal…" He muttered, Nixon nudged his side and gave him an annoyed look.

"It was…" I mused, sitting beside him. I rested my head on his shoulder.

"Sam…your turn!" Chatot squawked as I closed my eyes.

"Your turn…" I mused, pushing him toward Wigglytuff. Sam put his paws together as I ate another oran berry beside Nixon.

"What was that Wigglytuff was muttering out there?" Nixon asked, his tail wagging as I heard a bell ring.

"He was telling me stuff, stuff about how I was fighting…"

"Was it helpful?"

"Meh. It was confusing..." I turned to the fight that went on before me; Sam's eyes would occasionally turn to me, his lips occasionally pursed as he continued to evade Wigglytuff.

I watched as Sam dug underground, and Wigglytuff raised his ears into the air. I could see the other members grow quiet as he looked around.

I smirked, knowing Sam's thought process. But Wigglytuff threw a purple gel all over the field. I felt a chill run up my spine as I heard a scream. I quickly stood up, gasping as I almost ran onto the field.

I could feel someone hold me back, glancing to see Nixon yanking me back.

"Stop! Let him do this…" Nixon growled through his teeth. I looked back, feeling my heart's beating quicken as the screaming stopped. I bit my lip nervously, my fingers shaking.

"Come on…" I whispered to myself. I could feel this subtle rumbling under my feet. I felt myself breath as the ground grew bright red, the purple bubbles evaporated into the air. Sam popped into the air, swinging his fist at Wigglytuff, his eyes focused on his target.

Wigglytuff's pink ears twitched as he gripped Sam, slamming him into the floor before holding him. I could hear bells in my ears, knowing my pain is linked to see him like that. It pains me to see him like that.

Hoping he feels that way too, huh?

Wigglytuff grabbed Sam, whispering something in his ear, I noticed Sam's squirming cease as his silver eyes went wide.

"W-what's wrong with Sam…?" Nixon asked, standing up in a hurry. But Wigglytuff places him back down, and nods to Chatot who clicked the timer.

"Pass." Sam silently stands, shaking as he glances back to Wigglytuff.

"W-why?" Sam muttered, his silver eyes shaking as they dart to the ground. I rush to him, avoiding the calls of Nixon. And Wigglytuff's eyes shift and he throws a gyro ball in my direction.

I felt my ears twitch, not seeing it quick enough to dodge. I throw my arms across my face to block it but Sam dives in front. I feel the heat of his flame and look up to see he has protected me with his flamethrower. He stops, panting as he looks at me. He gives a weak smile.

"You okay…?" I quietly nod my head, my bangs flopping to one side as I push them out of my eyes. Wigglytuff smiles.

"That's why you passed Sam." I tilted my head and Sam just smirks messing with my bangs. I shove his hand away, handing him an oran berry, which he munches on with a grateful grin.

"What was all that about?" Sam sighs, kissing my forehead lightly.

"Protect the emotion, but don't let it consume…for that is dangerous… for letting go is uplifting…but hard when not all is forgiven." I let my fingers glide across his arm as I look to him for answers.

"What does that mean?" He shakes his head, his silver gaze casting away for a moment.

"I dunno…" There is a slight pause as he nibbles the blue berry. He lets out a refreshed breath of air, his eyes looking more focused and alert.

"How you feeling?" He asks.

"I should be asking you…he slammed you into the floor." I cringe as the thought enters my mind. I balls up my fists for a moment, the anger vanishing as he grabs my shoulders forcing me to look him in the eyes.

"It didn't hurt that much…" He mutters, his hands running down my arms before lacing his fingers together as we walk away toward the bleachers. We sit, and another name is called.

"Speak for yourself…" He chuckles, stroking my cheek. His eyes shift, almost as if he has something more to say.

Now is a great time to ask him…

"Listen I-" We speak at the same time. I feel my cheeks grow warm as he chuckles to himself nervously.

"You first," I say. He turns calling out to Wigglytuff as Loudred gets into position.

"Guildmaster, can we go?" He nods.

"Don't forget what I said! Emotion shouldn't drive your reason to fight! It will leave you unfocused!" He calls. Sam waves goodbye, grabbing my hand as we head out of the guild.

"Oh and don't forget, now that you're ready, pick up the slack!" Chatot calls, I groan…I liked the idea of work whenever I needed to, now it was mandatory. But this is only till the others return…so what's a few jobs?

I shrug as the wind from the outside hits my face. I can feel the chilly air drift through the night sky. The sweet scent of flowers drift through the afternoon air. The stars twinkle in the dark sky as we stand on the edge of the stairs.

"Ready for our night?" I smile and nod, seeing the moon reflects off his silver irises. I can see every muscle tense, his grip tightening. His pupils constrict and his breathing seems to hasten.

Nervous I see… but why?

"Why don't we head home first…let me get ready?" I ask, his eyes widen for a moment. But he relaxes, nodding his head.

"Y-yeah… then uh…we have to …uh…go to the beach…yeah, the beach…I uh… got something to show you…" I smile, walking along treasure town to see my home. I race down, heading to the fountain to wash up when I hear a thud.

I feel my ears twitch as silence over takes the room.

"Sam?" I ask, but the room remains silent. I slowly turn, seeing Sam has fallen asleep on the bed. I tilt my head…what? H-how did he fall asleep?

B-but what happened to …tonight?

"Sam?" He continues to sleep, as if I had said nothing. I sigh, smiling.

He must be tired, I don't blame him…well, I might as well sleep then…

The candle to our room glows softly. I blow it out, resting my head on my bed. I brush my fingers against his sleeping face.

"I love you…I hope you know its forever." I whisper as I close my eyes, snuggling up to him as the night continues on.


"You idiot! You could have been seen!" I growl as the nightly creature reappears. I grab his collar, my feet pushed into his stomach.

"For someone so small, you sure like to give orders…" He sneers, throwing me to the floor. I growl, standing with electricity in my paws. The high pitched chirp matches the shadow ball he's holding. His dark eyes flash violet, and I know.

You put him to sleep…

"I just had to mess this up… it was becoming too much for me." He grips, forming a shadow ball as his purple eyes flash upon it.

"It wasn't going to happen anyway… didn't you see the doubt on their faces?" He crushes the shadow ball in his hand, allowing his white fluff to flow in the afternoon air. My chirping electricity fades, and an amused chuckle escapes my lips.

"Didn't you see how emotional they were? What a couple of saps…" I mutter, my ears flattening against my head as I roll my eyes.

"Sam for sure…" I look up, seeing the purple eyes lock on Sharpedo bluff, flashing bright purple.

"Emotion clouds huh?" I smile as Darkrai chuckles. His eyes connect with mine and we both smirk, knowing we are on the same page.

"That boy...so emotional." He whispers, shadows floating all around until he sighs.

"Where you going with this?" I say absent mindedly as I munch on a yellow gummi. The taste jolts through my and a delighted moan escapes my lips.

"He's going to follow her anywhere…" Darkrai mutters softly. I feel my twirling fingers stop. He's absolutely right. I feel a smirk rush across my face.

He would follow Summer anywhere...

"That's a great idea…" I mutter, crossing my arms.

"Yeah, because it was my idea." I hum softly, trying to ignore the cocky comment. He is just hoping for acknowledge, he'll get it sure enough.

"Yeah but can you pull it off…?" He chuckles, a crack of electricity flows behind us.

"Mere child's play…don't be a fool…my dear Soul…"


I breathe in the afternoon air. The moon is high in the sky, I walk along as I look to the sky. Stars twinkle bright and I feel something brush up against up my side. I quickly glance seeing a bushy tail brush against my side.

I tense, my eyes quickly scanning the surroundings as I feel myself tense up. My arms and jaw tense up, I quickly ball up my fist, letting the white light over take them. I hear a gasp and I hear a familiar voice.

"What? What's out there!?" I roll my eyes as Avery clings to my side. I can see the dim silver tail and eevee ears and sigh.

"Why do you have to do that?" I shot, seeing her smile at my tenseness.

"I thought I'd be your company… you're always out here by yourself."

"Well I could have seriously hurt you, be more vocal about you tagging along next time." I growl. She brushed her white tipped tail across my chin.

"Aww… are you worried about me? I didn't know you cared?" I rolled my eyes as she giggles.

"I don't."

"Come on Lu, if you didn't you would have left me to that houndoom." She nudges me as I pick up another piece of wood. She sighs, throwing me another piece of wood.

"I don't like to see people suffer…that's all." I reply.

"Well why don't you leave?" She asks and I quickly point to her front paw. She steps, limping lightly on her front paw.

"When that paw heals, I will." She rolls her emerald eyes, flopping her silver ears from side to side.

"Are you going to go rescue someone else?"

"I told you already, I don't rescue… I travel…"

"But why? Obviously you've done that before right?" I feel my eyes dart to her as the cave's dimming light comes into view.

"No... I travel…I've always traveled…" I answer. She huffs loudly, irritated by my answer.

"Well not that you care, but… I want to rescue others…" She mutters. I roll my eyes. I throw the pile of wood by the edge of the cave.

"Yeah, I can see that...But your the one that needs saving...getting yourself in trouble." I say. She looks back at me with her emerald eyes and smiles. I feel the corners of my mouth smile.

"Yeeah right! I'm a great one women team!" She shot back, baring her teeth at me.

"All evidence to the contrary." I hiss.

"Well, I'm glad you saved me…otherwise I might not be rescuing anyone! Don't you understand that...?" I open my mouth to save something but thunder cracks throughout the sky.

The cold rain tips against my nose. I crinkle my nose and Avery turns to me. She giggles as the rain pours against my back.

"Afraid of a little water?" She quipped. I chuckled, shaking the water off. She giggled.

"Hey watch it!" She squeeks as she grabs another piece of wood.

"Well I know you're not going to be a vaporeon…" She makes smoothies and pokes the fire with a stick. I look out upon the open sky, watching the drops fall.

Seems…we are getting along better now a days…

"Hey…how bout a game?" I cringe.

Spoke too soon.


A warm fire crackles as the soft patter of winter rain fills Jade forest. I sigh as my silver tail swishes playfully in front of me. The riolu leans against the wall, his ember eyes fixed on the outside world.

Why don't you leave?

"Lu… Care to play a game?" I ask, stretching out my front paws, my claws lurch forward, scratching against the stone as they retract.

"No...and stop-." He answers, before sighing. He says nothing, and I find him curling up tighter into a ball. I feel a frown form on my face, he's so distant, but yet he doesn't part from my side?

"Come on…one round." His ears flick to my voice and he turns his head.

"Avery, can't you just leave me alone?"

"I don't know can't you just play a round?" He growls, balling up his fists. He grumbles turning toward me. A can feel the smile run to my face.

I win, you insane riolu.

"Fine…give me the rules…" I wag my tail, pouncing on my paws in excitement.

"Okay the game… twenty questions. We both get to ask 10… five general, five personal. Simple right? And you don't have to give too much detail for the personal, unless you want to." His eyes flicker against the fires glow, and he glances up at me.

"Nothing super personal like-" I chuckle.

"I don't want to know how many clowns you've kissed." He grit his teeth.

"Now you listen here! It's not like that okay! She…" He stood up yelling at the top of his lungs. I backed up, shielding myself with my siver tail. I struck a nerve, and I could feel myself shaking as he carried on, but as quickly as his rage appeared, it vanished.

"Nevermind…" He growled, scooting toward the other end of the fire. My ears flattened against my head. His red eyes shift along the orange flames, his paws clenching and releasing every time he glances my way.

"Sorry."

"Play the game…" He growls. I feel myself shrink back.

"Okay, general questions first. What's your favorite color?"

"Black." He mutters harshly. I sigh, and he takes the silence to ask another question.

"Favorite food?" I smirk.

"I like my clear gummis… roast them over a fire… it actually reminds me of marshmallows in a way." He nods and I wag my tail as he seems to relax, the general questions continue. But as we rounded into the final ten, I thought for a while, knowing the questions could give me an insight on who he is.

"I got the first personal question right?" Lu asks as he cracks a rare smile. He sips a bit of his drink from his brown wooden cup.

"Yup." I respond, sipping on a gummi juice I made. He lifts his drink into the air.

"Okay, shoot." I say, smile.

"Have you ever…thought of killing someone?" I nearly spit out my drink at the question.

"Excuse me? That's kinda dark…where'd that come from…?" He chuckles, taking another sip.

"If you irritate someone enough… they may decide they are tired of you…" He stifles a laugh and chuckles to himself lightly. I find myself smiling at the comment. I swished my tail back and forth, letting its silver fluff glide across the floor.

"Ah…I get it, that's cute." I mutter sarcastically. He just chuckles again.

"Anyway, no…I haven't…but thanks for making it clear." He shrugs his shoulders, and leans against the wall.

I never know what kind of mood this guy is in…

"Have you ever…been in love with someone who was supposed to just be your friend?" I ask, taking my turn. He sighed, his red eyes shimmering as his paw touches his ear.

"I…guess…" He had a long pause, and he looked at my eyes. I stood, feeling my toes go numb. I can't feel my eyes lock on him, my ears perked. I don't want to miss what he has to say.

He has? Gee… must be harsh… those eyes…what could he have gone through.

"The thing about that is…meeting her for the first time…I knew I didn't want to just be her friend… so I never made her one…" He answered. Oh, I …I suppose that answered my question.

"You're turn Bas." I mutter, his eyes quickly turn to me, ember color sharpening with slightly widened eyes.

"You…called me Bas…" I shrug my shoulders. His eyes sharpen, his breathing hastens. He puffs out his chest, letting a growl escape his lips. His blue fur tints purple.

"I'm sorry, should I not…?" As soon as I say that, Lu relaxes. His face softens and he mutters something under his breath.

"I would prefer if you didn't." He says, letting his paw touch the rain again.

"Oh…okay, I get it. Its your turn." I tell him.

"Why do you live out here all alone?" He mumbled. He twiddled his paws quietly.

"I like it here…its quiet…and out here…no one can bother me." I say. His fist tightens again. I can feel my jaw tighten at the thought of another tongue lashing.

"You just left it behind because of that…?" I nod my head.

"I felt trapped prior to living here… but here I feel free, nothing holding me back, there's no rules, no responsibilities…and that's how I'd like it to stay…" I huff, feeling my heart pump a bit faster.

"You're lying…" He sneers. I can feel the blood run to my face as I back up. My hind legs bump into cave's wall.

"N-no I'm not!" He laughs, clapping his paws together.

"I think you left because you can't take it…you can't face rejection." I grit my teeth, standing up. He matched my gaze as I charged up to him.

"That's not true!" I yelled, baring my teeth at him. His paw touched my chin and he smiled. He leaned in a bit closer, his jaw tightening for a moment.

"Sure it isn't…" His tone is sarcastic, cracking his toes as he pushed me away. I fell to the floor and I grit my teeth, slamming my paws against the floor.

"You don't know anything about me…"

"I only know what you showed me…" He hummed. I could feel the rapid beating of my heart, tears bulging. I grit my teeth, sighing to try and calm myself.

"Y-you…"

"I'm not your friend… I'm not afraid to call it like I see it!"

"Fine…you were right…you happy?" I hiss, throwing another log on the fire. He nods his head. The smile fades from his face as I put my face on my paws. I shield the right side of my face as a tear rolls down my face.

I can see out of the corner of my eye that he stops, his anger vanishes as he quickly looks away.

"Sorry…that was too far…" He whispers softly. My silver ears perk to the words. I bring my head up from the rock floor.

"What?"

"I…I'm sorry, I shouldn't have been rude like that…" He thinks he's going to get off like that? Not in the slightest. Its my turn now, and I can feel myself wanting to get back at him.

What to ask? What to ask?

The questions come out less than I hoped…

"Have you ever ran away from home?" He looks up and nods.

"Yeah, couldn't live with my parents anymore…so I left. What are you going to evolve into?" I bit my lip. I can feel my eyes dart away. I didn't know.

"Not sure…"

Silence over takes the conversation. I hear the soft patter of the rain splash outside. He sighs, coming back inside for a moment.

"How do you view me?" He asks. I blink in surprise, shocked by the question.

"You? You're…" I had never really thought about it before. I locked eyes with him and I saw his ember eyes wafer. Tears bulge, as if he wanted me to tell him off…but that seemed superficial. I could feel myself step forward, and his gaze turns away from me.

Hurting…

"You're in need of a friend…" I mutter and his black ears perk.

"What?" He quickly turns and I see a clear tear stream down his face. He wipes it away quickly and puts on a different face.

"Nothing…" I say, realizing that he has closed himself off again. He shrugs as I ask the question.

"How do you see me…?" I ask.

"You are a person in need of a reality check…you need to stop badgering people." I gasp.

"But you have a kind soul… you're a fighter…and that's a interesting combination." I bite my lip, feeling myself smile at his words. It's nothing special, but it's interesting to see what he thinks of me.

He glances, his blue paws coming together as his eye shuffle around the room.

"Its your last question Lu..."

"I'm going to save it for another time..." He leans back against the wall and shuts his eyes, a slight smirk on his face. He want to know something...but what...? I shrugg, leaning myself against the cold wall behind me.

"Okay… um… what's your…biggest fear…?" I asked. It's my last question. He huffed, looking away. His eyes seemed so lost before they widened. His red eyes looked so fearful but immediately changed back.

"I don't have one…anymore." I sighed, pulsing my silver paws along the floor. They clacked in silence for a few minutes.

"That's not true…everyone is afraid of something."

"I had a fear…then it happened…now I'm over it…no more fear, get me?" He huffed.

"Oh…well then…what was it?" I questioned. He pushed his paw out into the rain, letting the drops hit his blue paws. He ran his paw against his black ears. He didn't turn, only continuing to watch the rain as it fell.

"Not recognizing what I had come to know…It had changed…and it was the most terrifying thing that ever happened to me." I nodded, I guess that made scene. He had slept here around my home for a while, every night…he mutters and cries to himself in dreams… I wonder what about.

"Is that what you cry about at night…?" I mutter. He glances to me and his eyes widen. He looks away, giving a swift nod of his head.

"Yeah…that's why." I find myself standing, walking beside him before I nudge him as he sits by the rain. He says nothing, only growling as if to warn me to stay away.

"Go away…" He says. I nudge him again.

"Look…I know you don't like me…" I begin.

"But I'm going to tell you this…" He looks to me and I feel myself swallow the lump in my throat.

"You…are my friend now…you don't have to pretend you're fine…but we…I…I mean me at least…won't press on your life anymore. If…If you want to tell me…you can." My ears flatten. I feel my head get pulled to gravity. I turn around walking back toward the fire.

"Avery wait!" He calls. I turn around seeing him smile.

"Thanks...for understanding." I felt my cheeks burn. I felt good knowing he liked the space.

"I need you to know…these walls…are here for a reason…and until I am certain that I won't make the same mistake twice, they shall remain." This was a new leaf for us...we're friend now...and even he can see it.

Okay you guys…that is more than enough writing. That's 9,000 words for you, sorry its long, but this is you're reward for the long wait. But as a author, I actually have a few questions…PLEASE answer them all!

What do you think the villains next move will be? (I'm not sure is not an answer)

Do you think Sam will propose before the end of the book? How bout in the next few chapters? Let's say six?

In a few words can you describe Basil and Avery's connection?

Do you like the plot so far?

Anyway, I'm sorry for the late update… I hope you enjoyed it. Please review guys! Thank you! PM me if you'd like! :)