Team Wildfire: Darkrai Returns
Chapter Nine: Secret Feelings and Confessions
*Delphox's p.o.v*
My team and I stood watching the two heroic teams walk away. My heart was racing in fear. Failing Darkrai only means…
"What are you doing?! Stop them!'' I commanded Chandelure and Hydreigon. The two Pokémon floated in place. Defeated.
"Delphox…we failed,'' Chandelure said as his yellow eyes saddened.
"And that means…Darkrai will…'' Hydreigon began.
"SHUT UP!'' I shrieked causing them to jump back slightly. I felt bad for snapping at my own friends, but we can't think of the consequences for failure…yet. "If we stop those teams, we can-''
Suddenly, I was hit with a dark energy that quickly enveloped me.
"Delphox!'' I heard my partners yell before I blacked out.
*Blastoise's p.o.v*
"So, little buddy, who was the group that snatched you up in the Square?'' I inquired Charmander.
"Oh, uh…'' Charmander rubbed the back of his head. "I can't fully remember who it was, but I remember getting hypnotized by some sort of spell.''
"A spell?'' Gardevoir piped up. She put her paw to her chin thinking. "Alex, dear. Didn't you say a spell transformed you into a Snivy?''
"Yeah, I did,'' Alex responded. "That means…'' Alex gasped quietly. "It must've been Team Shadow Fire's Delphox!''
"You're right! It was Team Shadow Fire!'' Charmander exclaimed.
"Whose Team Shadow Fire?'' Neva asked.
"A rescue team,'' Charmander replied. "Alex said she was captured by Team Shadow Fire who brought her to Darkrai. She escaped, but Delphox transformed her into a Snivy.'' A growl escaped Anthony's mouth.
"That group…When I catch them, I will make them pay for what they did to you, sweetie,'' Anthony said bitterly. Alex looked to her father and smiled.
"We'll help keep an eye out for them and let you know if we see them,'' Staravia stated.
"And when we catch them, we'll bring them in for questioning and make 'em pay!'' Neva grinned.
"Right. But remember, don't go looking for a fight,'' Anthony warned the youngsters.
"I know, dad,'' Alex reminded her father. "I'll only fight when I need to defend myself and nothing else.'' Anthony smiled and nodded approvingly.
We soon re entered the Square only to be greeted by Team A.C.T and Charmander's mother.
"My baby! You're safe!'' Charmander's mother exclaimed as tears formed in the corners of her eyes and embraced her son. Charizard joined in the warm reunion.
"I'm glad to see you safe, son,'' added Charizard as he rubbed Charmander's head.
Moments like these help me remember what being apart of a rescue team really meant. It wasn't about rewards or anything like that. It was about just doing good towards your fellow Pokémon and the true reward was the satisfaction of making others happy.
"Guys, I'm glad to be back safe and all, b you're embarrassing me in front of my friends!'' Charmander groaned.
"Oh. Of course, sweetie,'' Charmander's mother said setting her son down. Charmander wiped the kisses off of him while rejoining his friends. Helioptile and Neva giggled causing Charmander to glare daggers at them.
"What's the matter, Charmander? Embarrassed by your parents?'' Neva asked in a mocking tone.
"HUSH,'' Charmander snarled with a reddened face. Neva and Helioptile looked away, but still retained their smirks. The rest of the adults chuckled.
"I see that Starly evolved into a Staravia,'' stated Alakazam.
"Uh-huh. After accepting Snivy as family, I evolved!'' smiled Staravia proudly.
"Then, it seems that the Light Cave is losing its influence over the island,'' Alakazam observed.
"What's Light Cave?'' spoke up Alex.
"A cave near Whiscash's Pond. Long ago, the stone was discovered to only allow evolution to those Pokémon who came to it, and prevented natural evolution for all the island's inhabitants,'' elaborated Alakazam.
"The cave was rediscovered after Team Wildfire got Rayquaza to destroy a meteor that threatened all of life on Earth. Some meteor shracknil destroyed the entrance blocking the way to it,'' said Tyranitar.
"Wow, dad. You saved all of life?!'' Alex asked impressed.
"Not just me! My friends helped me as well!'' Anthony chuckled as his face grew pink.
"Ho ho ho, Anthony's humble as ever,'' Alakazam laughed before having a coughing fit.
"Are you okay?'' Lucario asked worriedly.
"Y-yes, just getting old is all,'' replied Alakazam. "I really need to go rest now.''
"Yeah, Alakazam's just being himself,'' Charizard laughed. Alakazam quickly slapped him in the back of the head and shot him a glare.
"We'll see you later, children,'' Alakazam smiled as he floated off with his team.
"Dear, why don't you come home for dinner tonight? You can invite your friends if you want,'' Charmander's mother offered.
"Okay! What do you say guys?'' Charmander asked his team.
"That sounds wonderful! Thank you, ma'am!'' Helioptile smiled.
"We'll be there, Char,'' Neva said to Charmander.
"Okay, I'll be sure to get dinner ready for you and your friends. Be home by 6 pm! Take care, sweetie!'' Charmander's mother then flew off.
"How nice of Charmander's mother to invite you for dinner,'' Zoroark said.
"Yeah, my mom's an excellent cook! She makes the best stew around!'' boasted Charmander.
"Speaking of food, let's get some grub! I'm starved!'' said I rubbing my stomach.
*Delphox's p.o.v*
"Wake up!'' a familiar, dark voice commanded. I tried to open my eyes groaning, but I was still groggy and fought falling back to sleep. "I said WAKE UP!'' the voice roared. I quickly woke up and the sight of Darkrai before me sent chills through my body. I looked around and saw Chandelure and Hydreigon shivering as well. We were back in Dark Crater!
"M-master…I-I know you must be upset about us failing to take care of those children, b-but we-'' I stammered fearing the worst.
Darkrai flew up to me and grabbed my throat.
"I did not ask for you to talk, Delphox. Speak when you are spoken to! UNDERSTAND?!'' Darkrai snapped. I nodded as I gasped for air. Darkrai tossed me across the room landing near my teammates.
"Delphpox! Are you-?!'' Chandelure began as he and Hydreigon came towards me.
"Don't touch her!'' Darkrai barked. I stood up. I felt that same feeling of helplessness I felt all my life of being around Darkrai. The constant abuse, the screaming, it never ends. And now, one of my team would suffer the worst of consequences.
"W-what are you going to do to us, master?'' Hydreigon asked with his voice quivering. It would take a lot to intimidate a powerful Dragon Pokemon such as him. Dragons are said to be fearless warriors, but my Hydreigon friend emanated an aura of pure fear. The way a mouse feels when cornered by a cat.
"Yes, I said how one of you would perish if you failed me. Which you have,'' Darkrai said feigning calmness. "Now, one of you must DIE.'' Darkrai scanned us, acting the role of judge, jury, and executioner. Darkrai then smiled wickedly. "Hydreigon. Come here.'' All breath left my lungs and my heart stopped.
Hydreigon looked to me visibly afraid. I just stood blankly staring zombie-like not knowing what to do. "COME.'' Hydreigon moved towards Darkrai slowly. Hydreigon stopped in his tracks and stood in front of Darkrai.
"I'm ready, master,'' Hydreigon said sadly avoiding Darkrai's gaze.
"Don't worry. I'll make sure you don't suffer. Much.'' Darkrai prepared a Shadow Ball in one hand and grabbed Hydreigon's throat in the other. "Open wide!'' Hydreigon opened his mouth. "Now, time to meet your-!'' I snapped. Finally moving a muscle and flicked my stick towards Darkrai. Darkrai was caught in a vortex of flames and shouted in pain.
"Hydreigon, hurry! We need to get out of here!'' I yelled as I pulled out an Escape Orb. Hydreigon glided quickly over to me.
"But, where are we going to go?!'' Chandelure asked panicking over the attack on Darkrai.
"Don't worry! I got this!'' I reassured him. I held the Orb over us and we were almost instantly teleported away. Where would we go? I didn't even know…
*Darkrai's p.o.v*
The flames evaporated after I heard Delphox and her team. I was left with some burns, but nothing too severe.
"Where are they?!'' I thought aloud. The trio of misfits was nowhere to be seen. "CURSE IT ALL!" I roared as I slammed my fist into the floor. A large hole was left where the blow landed. "So, those fools believe they can run and hide like children. Well, they're wrong. I WILL find them. And I'll deal with Alex and bring Anthony to his knees. No one is safe from me...''
*Lucario's p.o.v*
It was 4:30 in the afternoon. The children have only recently left for Charmander's house. Anthony and Gardevoir left to go get supplies for we planned on going on a rescue early tomorrow morning. A Plusle and Minun were lost on Mt. Blaze since yesterday.
Zoroark and Blastoise were chattering at the table while I sat on my bed thinking…about Gardevoir. I was even more interested in her than ever. I will admit, I had some interest in her since I met her years ago since the team and I were still young. But, now that interest has increased ten fold and she may be returning it. I just…don't know what to do.
"Lucario?'' Zoroark said. I looked towards my friends. "Is something wrong?''
"Uh…nothing,'' I replied coyly. Zoroark and Blastoise looked at each other suspiciously.
"You're lying, aren't you?'' Blastoise smirked. Blood rushed to my face and I scowled.
"No, I'm not! Why would I lie?'' I said defensively.
"C'mon, tell us! You can trust us with anything,'' Zoroark egged on. I sighed exasperated.
"Okay,'' I smiled a small smile. "I'm thinking about…Gardevoir.''
"Gardevoir?'' both Pokémon questioned. The two looked at each other. They both smiled.
"Oh, I see. She's smitten you,'' Blastoise realized. I looked away shyly.
"Yes. I mean, I've become so interested in her ever since we met long ago,'' I answered.
"Well, why don't you say something to her? I mean, you've lived with her all these years under Anthony's roof, so you've definitely known her for a long time,'' Zoroark responded.
"I-it's just that-'' I started.
"You're romantically clueless,'' Blastoise answered. The answer hit me like a ton of bricks, but was pretty much true. No need to be so direct, I thought rolling my eyes. Blastoise and Zoroark came up to me and put their arms around my shoulders. "Relax, buddy. We'll help you.''
"So, what's your advice?'' I enquired.
"Simple,'' Zoroark answered.
"Ask Gardevoir out somewhere,'' Blastoise added.
"Where though?'' I begged.
"Dinner, a show, take your pick,'' replied Blastoise. "But, take your time doing so. I mean, it's not like you've got competition or anything!'' I bit my lip.
"What?'' Zoroark asked.
"N-nothing. Thanks, guys.'' Blastoise slapped me on the back.
"Anytime, buddy!'' We all stood up.
"Say, I'll go get some flowers!'' suggested I.
"Okay. Hopefully she's not allergic to pollen,'' Blastoise warned.
"She's been around flowers. She's not allergic.'' I then ran out quickly to find some flowers to pick. I entered the nearby woods and found a bed of roses. There were roses of many colors including red, pink, and…Ah! White! Perfect! I picked enough for a bouquet and hustled back to the base.
Anthony and Gardevoir were just arriving back from their errands each carrying a bag of supplies. My heart rate and breathing sped up as I braced myself to make my move. And I thought saving the world was difficult. I took a deep breath, smiled, and walked towards the base. I saw my friends were all taking the groceries out of the bags as I stood in the doorway. I hid the flowers behind my back and walked in.
"G-Gardevoir…'' I spoke. Gardevoir looked up and smiled a small smile.
"Hello, Lucario. Why are you so nervous?'' I gulped nervously as my face heated up. Everyone looked my way further adding to the uncomfortable atmosphere.
"I-I wanted to ask you something,'' I choked out. Gardevoir titled her head to one side.
"Yes?'' I shivered and sweated as I mustered up my courage to ask Gardevoir out. I could see Blastoise and Zoroark mouthing "subtly''. DO IT ALREADY! I practically threw the flowers at Gardevoir making her jump slightly in surprise.
"WILL YOU GO OUT WITH ME?!'' I spoke loudly. Blastoise face palmed at my rash gesture of affection. However, Gardevoir gazed in awe of the brilliant bouquet and blushed a deep red smiling.
"Oh, they're so beautiful!'' Gardevoir took the flowers and smelled them. She put them down on the table and wrapped her arms around me. "I would love to go out with you!'' I embraced her back. Gardevoir looked me in the eyes. "Where would you like to go?''
"Does dinner sound good?'' Gardevoir nodded.
"Let's go tonight!'' I was taken back by this suggestion. I was thinking we would go tomorrow, but this is great, too!
"Okay, whatever you want,'' grinned I. Gardevoir giggled and hugged me again. I looked up to see Blastoise giving a thumbs up while smiling and Zoroark nodding approvingly.
I saw Anthony smiling as well. I do feel bad for thinking negatively of my own friend and thinking he'd steal Gardevoir from me. I mean, he's already married with children! What reason would he have to do that? He and Gardevoir aren't even the same species! I'm just being ridiculous.
*Brendan's p.o.v*
"Okay, Swellow, let's go in for a landing!'' shouted I as we flew above Vermillion City, Alex's home town. I just got out of my swim club, and was eager to pay Alex a surprise visit since at about this time, 2:00 pm, Alex would be out of school. I've done these kinds of visits before and Alex usually never minded. Though sometimes, she had to dedicate time to school work and had no time for me. Swellow and I landed in front of Alex's home.
"Thanks, Swellow. Now, take a break!'' I returned Swellow back to his Poké Ball and towards the porch. I reached the door and was about to knock when Alice opened the door.
"Hi, Brendan! What brings you here?'' Alice leaned against the door frame casually still in her school uniform.
"Hey, Alice. I was just wondering if Alex was available for a visit.'' A frown slowly spread across Alice's face and stopped leaning against the door.
"This is really difficult to say.'' My smile disappeared and was eager to hear Alice's story. "Alex and our dad…had a fight. Easily their worst one yet.'' Alice took a deep breath. "Alex ran away and was…'' Alice paused.
"What?'' I anxiously asked. Alice avoided my gaze. "Alice, tell me!'' Alice flinched at me raising my voice. "I'm sorry, but I have to know! I'm Alex's boyfriend!''
"I understand. A group of Pokémon consisting of a Delphox, a Chandelure, and a Hydreigon took her away!'' My eyes widened in disbelief. What would a group of Pokémon, let alone ones of different species, want with Alex?! Alice sniffled and wiped her eyes and her voice cracked when she spoke again. "Dad tried to stop them, but they vanished with her. Dad said afterwards that they were working for a Pokémon called Darkrai who knew dad from long ago and wants revenge on him by…killing Alex.''
Fear for Alex consumed me. Those fiendish Pokémon very well could've brought Alex to this Darkrai and he could've…NO! I refuse to believe that!
"Where's your dad?'' Alice wiped her eyes again which were even more clearly welling up with tears.
"He's been looking for Alex since the incident. But recently, he disappeared without a word overnight!''
"He must be searching for Alex,'' suggested I.
"Y-yes, but what if he pushes himself too far?'' Alice began crying harder. "He was so torn up about Alex's kidnapping.'' Alice put her hands to her face and sobbed.
"Alice,'' I said putting my hand on Alice's shoulder. Alice looked up through watery eyes. "You can't think like that.''
"Don't tell me what I can and can't think, Brendan White!'' Alice snapped angrily shrugging my hand off her shoulder.
"What I'm saying is-'' I tried to say.
"Shut up! You don't know what it's like to lose a loved one!''
"But, Alice-''
Just leave me alone!'' Alice slammed the door in my face. I could hear her sobbing as she ran up the stairs. I leaned forward and placed my hands on the door frame. This is all really hard to take in at once, I thought. Seems more like a dreamt-up fantasy than anything else. But, Alex must be in grave danger! I grunted in frustration as I walked away from the door. If only there was something I could do! Alex, please stay safe.
*Charmander's p.o.v*
"And that's why you should always keep an eye out for trouble.'' Staravia finished his tedious lecture about watching out for strangers. I know he means well, but I'm not a baby! I think I can figure out to be more careful of my surroundings.
"Staravia, give it a rest,'' Alex said as we continued our walk towards my parents' house. "Charmander knows to be careful of those things.''
"And to be fair, can one really expect to be kidnapped in the middle of town where others are most likely watching?'' Helioptile added.
"Well, I say these things because I care about my family,'' Staravia huffed.
"Well, you sure have an odd way of showing it,'' Alex laughed. Our group soon came upon my parents' house. It was a two story building painted an orange-red similar to fire. I saw my mother in the kitchen window and hurried to the door with my friends following close behind. I swiftly opened the door hoping to let Alex go first.
"After you, my dear.''
"Uh…thanks?'' I looked up and saw Staravia in front of Alex. My face turned red in embarrassment. Staravia entered the house followed by the others. I sighed. Staravia ruined my kind gesture towards! Yeah unintentionally mind you, but still! I've never felt so embarrassed before in my life! I slumped into the house and closed the door.
"Hello, my baby!'' My mother then scooped me up and hugged me tightly. For an older Charizard, she still has plenty of strength in her body. Enough to suffocate a young Charmander like me!
"Hi, mom. Could you please put me down now?!'' I gasped.
"Okay,'' my mother said feigning sadness. "But, I can't help it! You're so cute!'' I heard the others chuckle in the living room. Parents. Can't live with them, you can't live without them! "Why don't you have a seat with your friends in the living room? Dinner will be ready in a few minutes. We're making your favorite!'' A smile instantly grew on my face! Roast beef stew! My mom sure knows what I like!
"Cool! Where's dad?'' I piped up.
"He's doing some secret training with his friends, Tyranitar and Alakazam. He already ate before leaving and will be back later tonight,'' explained my mother. "Now, run along now while I set everything.'' I looked around the corner and saw my friends talking and laughing.
"Hey, mom. I'll help you set things up,'' I offered following my mother.
"Why thank you, dear! You can set out the utensils, placemats, and napkins.'' I picked six wooden spoons, placemats, and cloth napkins and set them on the table. "Dinner's ready! Come and get it!'' The others walked into the dining room. I quickly ran over to Alex as she was about to reach her seat.
"Excuse me,'' Alex said annoyed.
"Allow me,'' I pulled out the seat for her.
"Oh, thank you.'' Alex took her seat. I turned to see Neva staring at me. No specific emotions, just a blank stare. I looked away and took my seat. My mother came out carrying a large pot of stew and six bowls. She began dishing the delicious food to each of us. I took a long sniff and sighed in relief. "Well, dig in!''
I immediately began to dig into the concoction relishing every well-seasoned spoonful. I heard my mother clear her throat. I looked at her and saw her leering at me. Everyone else had looks of either disgust or disapproval.
"Sorry,'' said I sheepishly. I wiped my mouth, held my spoon properly, and took sips of my dinner. My mother nodded approvingly and resumed eating. She's normally as sweet as honey and is highly tolerant of many people's flaws, but she has low tolerance for bad manners.
"So Alex dearie, what was your human life like?'' asked my mother.
"Busy,'' Alex said plainly. "I go to high school in my town, Vermillion City, and usually have homework everyday.''
"What's homework?'' Neva enquired.
"Well, it's an assignment you have to do at home and turn in within a day or two to the teacher,'' Alex replied. "I was taking biology, algebra 1, physical education 2, art 1, English 2, world history, and drama 1.''
"Drama? Isn't that a bad thing to have?'' Helioptile asked clueless-ly. Alex chuckled.
"No, drama is a theatre class. We recite parts of a play to the class and we can even get in on participating in class plays.''
"That sounds like fun,'' Neva said eagerly.
"It is pretty fun. I was using the class to get over my stage fright,'' said Alex. "Whenever I had to speak in front of an audience, I used to act like a deer in headlights. Now, I don't feel as nervous anymore. And my teacher was really helpful to me in doing so.''
"Well, you seem like a confident person,'' I said half-complementary and half-flirtatiously.
"Thanks, Char. You're sweet,'' Alex smiled blushing at the statement. "You don't mind being called Char, do you?''
"You're welcome! And not at all!'' I responded feeling hot. Her compliment made my heart flutter. I wonder what Alex looked like as a human? I wondered in my mind. She's really cute as a Snivy with her beautiful, blue eyes and lashes, her gorgeous, green scales, and her sweet voice. I bet she's really cute as a human.
"Char?'' Alex said, snapping me out of reality.
"Huh…?'' I replied still zoned out. Staravia shook his head embarrassed, Helioptile giggled, and Neva ears hung to the side as if she was annoyed. "Sorry, my mind was elsewhere!'' I rubbed the back of my head. "Say, Alex, could you show us how to play soccer?''
"I would love to…but we don't have a ball,'' Alex replied.
"I might have something that would be a good substitute,'' my mother said getting up and disappearing into the kitchen. She returned shortly with a coconut. "This coconut should withstand being kicked around.''
"Cool! Thanks, mom! Wanna play after dinner guys?'' I asked excitedly.
"Yeah!'' Alex answered.
"Count me in!'' Helioptile chimed.
"No thanks. I can't kick,'' Staravia said before gulping some food. Neva remained quiet.
"Neva? You want to play, too?'' I asked.
"Y-yeah, sure,'' Neva said half-smiling. We quickly finished our meal, rested for a little while (mom didn't want us to get cramps while playing), and we soon began our game.
*Neva's p.o.v*
After dinner and resting, we went out in the front yard and made the playing field. Charmander burned the grass slightly to make a playing field and goals. Staravia and Char's mother watched from the sidelines.
"Okay, so who's on what team?'' Char asked.
"Let's settle it rock-paper-scissors,'' Alex suggested.
"…Rock-paper-scissors?'' I asked.
"We make gestures with our hands to make a rock (Alex made a fist), paper (she flattened her hand), or scissors (she stuck out two fingers),'' Alex elaborated. "Paper beats rock, scissors beats paper, and rock beats scissors. Whoever loses is on team two and the last two remaining will be on team one. Is that okay?'' We all nodded. Alex then explained the rules of soccer. We can only kick the "ball'' with our feet and there was no using our attacks on each other. Whatever team scores 3 points wins the game. We gathered in a circle, put our fists in the center, and chanted "rock-paper-scissors''. Char had rock, Alex had rock as well, Helioptile had rock also, and I got scissors. Drat! I thought annoyed. I exited the circle.
I secretly hoped that Char and I would end up on the same team. He was so kind to me in the past when he and the others saved me from the Cofigrigus. Yeah, we had an upset awhile back but it didn't matter anymore. We were becoming better and better friends. I felt I wanted to get to know him better.
My friends did the gesture again.
"Whoops, a draw,'' Alex said. They did it again. Helioptile whined softly.
"Looks like we're on the same team, Neva,'' Helioptile smiled sweetly. I smiled back, but did feel a little disappointed.
"And Alex and I are together!'' Char said with a hint of excitement. Char sure seems happy to be with Alex. My disappointment worsened and a frown crawled across my face.
"Neva? C'mon, let's go play!'' Helioptile egged on. I snapped out of my disappointment and joined my friends as they walked towards the center of the field. Alex and Char stood in front of Helioptile and I. The coconut was three feet between us. Alex in particular eyed the coconut like a predator watching its prey. I felt somewhat intimidated, but I like a challenge and was eager to test Alex's skills.
Char's mother rung a bell to start the game. Alex dove towards the coconut and guided it on its way towards our goal.
"After her! Don't let her score!'' I yelled to Helioptile. Helioptile skittered after Alex and I tried to follow. However, Char got between us blocking my path. Alex seemingly glided across the field as she kept her body close to the ground when running. Helioptile tried to get in front of her, but Char stepped in the way allowing Alex to score a point. They shared a double high hive as Helioptile retrieved the ball from the brush.
"Just because we're friends doesn't mean we're not gonna do our best to win!'' Char teased playfully.
"Same here!'' I shot back tail wagging. We got back into position to begin the next round. Alex lunged at the coconut, but I shoved her away and guided it towards the goal. Moving and controlling the coconut was somewhat challenging, but I was quick to adapt. Helioptile kept Alex and Char at bay as I horse-kicked the coconut into the brush behind Alex and Char's goal.
"Yay! We got a point!'' Helioptile cried embracing me in a friendly hug. Alex retrieved the coconut and passed it to Char.
"Good job,'' Char smiled. His comment made me feel warm in the face for an instant. Geez Neva. Ya comin' down with a cold? Alex walked by me and smiled. I didn't know why, but I felt a bit resentful of Alex. But, I just shook it off and rejoined the group for one last round of the game.
This time, Helioptile snagged the coconut and scurried for the goal. I followed close behind to protect her. Alex suddenly leaped over me and Char muscled his way through. Helioptile looked behind her and panicked passing the coconut towards me. Alex and Char tried to slow down, but the bumped into each other and fell flat on their rears. The coconut rolled up to me.
Alex and Char looked at each other dumbfounded. Then, they both began laughing at their silly moment together.
"Wasn't that crazy!'' chuckled Alex.
"Yeah! We must've looked really dumb!'' Char guffawed. That resentful feeling resurfaced in my heart. I then got an idea. Not a very nice idea, but an idea regardless. Maybe this'll break 'em up! I turned around and horse-kicked the coconut aiming for the space between Alex and Char. Instead, however, I heard a loud "SOCK'' and a feminine cry of pain.
I turned around and saw Alex lying on the ground and clutching the right side of her body in pain while Charmander sat by her side looking worried. My friends and Char's mother ran up to them.
"Alex, are you okay?!'' Helioptile asked worriedly.
"Y-yeah, I just feel sore. Nothing I haven't experienced before while playing soccer,'' Alex responded still holding her side. Char looked my way and scowled.
"What was that for, Neva?!'' snapped Char. My blood practically froze.
"I-I thought the game was still in session and was just aiming towards the goal!'' I answered. Truth be told, that was only half-true. I really didn't mean to hurt Alex, I was aiming towards the space between her and Char! It was like I was possessed.
"It doesn't matter,'' Alex said getting up with Char's help. "Just be more careful, Neva. Don't kick the coconut when we aren't ready!'' Everyone then got up and made their way towards Char's house. My ears drooped somberly and I followed the group back inside, but I kept a wide birth between us. I'm sorry, guys. I need to keep my emotions in check, like my parents told me before.
It's strange, what's going on with me?
Well, this took a little while to get out. LOL, sorry! Working two jobs gets kinda tiring and I can't get the creative juices flowing sometimes. ^-^; But, thanks for your patience, guys! It's much appreciated. And special thanks to Sunny for agreeing to this collab and for her advice with the chapter.
Before I go, I'd like to make an announcement! Sunny and I present to you…a contest. Whoever becomes the 40th reviewer on this story will get a special prize. What is it? A sneak peak at the next chapter of this story! I think I'd like to keep this a new system for my page. Story gets X amount of reviews and the Xth reviewer gets a sneak peak at what's to come. I hope this gets you excited and please stay tuned (and patient) for the next chapter. ;)
Sincerely,
BigBossMan538