-Cyclone-
Kyogre
Archie promised himself he wouldn't spend all day inside the lab. He had seen what a ton of work could do to a man. Maxie was passionate about achieving his goals, and Archie respected the heck out of that. But Archie still wanted a social life. And it was summer. Some of his friends had plans, and although Archie couldn't afford to do much, he also wanted to make some plans of his own.
He thought leaving immediately after finishing his work would be difficult. He knew Maxie would stay behind, usually to get some extra stuff done, or because he wanted to make sure that he had done every little thing right. Tess and some of the graduate students made jokes about "living" inside of the science buildings. Archie figured there'd be something that would try to keep him behind. Most likely a screw-up, and Archie would have a reason to stay inside for an extra hour.
It was just the opposite. Archie made sure he did everything right. He followed the instructions given. He performed each experiment exactly the way he was told to. And once it was over, he'd meet with one of the graduate students, turn in his work, show them his work area, and once they passed him for inspections, he'd leave.
There was nothing keeping him from staying a minute longer than he had to.
"Do ya think that's weird?" he asked his Poochyena.
He, along with Poochyena and Golbat, were walking back to the apartment. His Golbat flew above, enjoying all the privileges that came with a stronger, wider wingspan. His Poochyena continued to look up and bark at the large bat, struggling to catch up with it.
"I like that I work there," Archie continued, pretending the canine Pokémon tugging at the leash was listening to him. "But some of the practices make me feel…weird? Is that the word?"
He looked down at the Poochyena jumping up and barking at its flying companion. Archie then looked up at the Golbat. The Pokémon flew ahead of the two, riding the warm winds and looking happy. It was a sight to see, but his Golbat also had him thinking about the Grimer in the tank.
Most of today's work consisted of comparing and processing results on the computer. Archie didn't have to worry about coming into contact with a Grimer. The Pokémon remained in their dark pools all day long. It wasn't the best, but at least he wasn't cutting into them. And in a few days they would all be released back into the wild.
His Poochyena turned and yipped as they passed by a small portion of lawn. Archie stopped and let the Pokémon do its business while he continued to look up at his Golbat. The giant bat Pokémon dove down and landed on the ground.
Archie looked at it. "Would ya hate me if ya knew what I was doin'?" he asked.
His Golbat stared back, not catching on.
"Ya understand that in order fer me to say that Slateport's water is gettin' dirtier, I have to perform certain experiments?" he added.
Golbat blinked. Archie felt his Poochyena pull at the leash again.
"And now that I know the seawater quality has decreased, action can be taken to increase the quality," Archie said to the Golbat. The Pokémon shrugged with its wings. "No, no," Archie corrected, "because now I have proof that the water carries more pollutants in it, because the Grimer carry it all inside of 'em…"
His Golbat continued to peer up at him, waiting for Archie to further elaborate.
"I mean…it's not really bad that I have to perform these experiments, right?" Archie watched the Golbat pull its wings closer to the rest of its body. "Because so many Pokémon live in the ocean, and findin' out the water is dirty means we gotta act and fix it. And Grimer can regrow their body. They lose parts all the time. And I'm only takin' enough to figure out what's in the water. "
The Golbat produced a sharp click. He watched it give a quick nod of the head.
"So you agree with me?" he asked. He felt the Poochyena continue to yank, eager to get a move on.
Golbat clicked again, and this time Archie caught the look of absolute adoration and trust in the Pokémon's eyes.
Archie sighed. "Thanks." He gave the Pokémon a pat on the head. "I'm glad ya get it. Really, comin' from you, that's real important."
If Golbat was sure that the experiments he was performing with the Grimer were necessary, then Archie could rest assure that he wasn't doing anything bad.
His Poochyena pulled at its leash, and Archie decided it was time to get a move on. He reestablished his control and pulled his Poochyena closer to him. Golbat went back to flying above the two.
Archie distracted himself with thoughts about the summer. So far he had two things planned up. At the end of the week he and Maxie would take a weekend trip to Dewford. It wasn't really his plan, but Matt and his girlfriend had suggested the trip, and the offer to get out of Slateport for a few days was too hard to pass up.
And then there was Maxie's birthday. Archie checked the calendar and saw that he had a few weeks to plan something out. Maxie bought him those two expensive Poké Balls. And that was before they became "a thing." He knew it would be impossible for him to one-up Maxie and get something nicer than two specialty Poké Balls, but Archie was determined to do something nice for him.
When the building was in sight Archie sent his Golbat to fly ahead. The Pokémon swooped up into the air, flying higher than before, and made its way over to the complex.
It was a trick Archie had taught his Golbat to perform. If Maxie was home, he'd end up catching the Pokémon at the door, begging for him to open it. Maxie would remain out, waiting for Archie to catch up, and when he did he could greet the redhead and provide some affection. If Maxie was busy doing work, then Golbat would fly back to Archie. It was a really simple trick, but it did its job. Having Maxie wait for him when he returned was nice to see. Maxie began enjoying it too, once he ran out of sarcastic remarks to make every time Archie ran up to him.
Today Golbat didn't return. That meant Maxie was waiting for him.
Archie sprinted to the apartment complex. His Poochyena kept an excellent pace with him. They came to a slow once they were inside of the property, and Archie returned his Poochyena back inside of its ball so the other Pokémon wandering the vicinity wouldn't distract it.
Everyone was outside today. Archie entered the pool area and had to immediately avert his gaze away from a few girls who were tanning their bare backs. Despite this, he was given a warning growl from an Aron. A few people were in the pool, along with some Pokémon. There were people were sitting at the tables, muttering nonsense to one another. The air reeked of Compound Eye.
He caught Maxie and his Golbat waiting by the door. "Afternoon." Maxie smiled pleasantly at him. It never ceased to amaze Archie how someone could look so happy over a simple greeting. Just the thought of it made him feel funny.
Archie walked up and planted a kiss right where Maxie had his finger pointed. "What's up?" He grabbed his Poké Ball and returned the Golbat back inside.
"You're home early," Maxie muttered, letting Archie pass.
"It was just lab work today," Archie commented. "And watta 'bout you? No work today?"
"I took the day off to pack a few things," Maxie answered.
"Alright," Archie said, turning around and staring suspiciously at the redhead. "Who are you and what have you done with the real Maxie?"
Maxie snickered. "Oh, you're funny. Real funny."
Archie laughed, reaching out and giving Maxie a quick pet on the head. "Ya know I'm messin' with ya. You would be the type to pack early." He continued to make his way over to his room. Maxie followed him.
"Your room?" Maxie sounded confused.
"Yeah?" Archie answered. "Gotta put my things away." He let his hand hover over the two Poké Balls attached to his belt. "Also gotta let these two out and relax a bit."
"Send them out later," Maxie said. Archie felt something pull at his backpack. He stopped just a few feet away from the door to his room. Maxie's hand grabbed his.
Really? Archie just got home. He wanted to stop thinking about the Grimer, and he needed to figure out what to do for Maxie's birthday. He needed to think up some nice things to do for his boyfriend. And right now it was insufferably hot.
But Maxie had that eager look in his eyes. Something about it was contagious. Not just the look, but also the way his hand was held so possessively. Archie guessed that he could put some time aside.
He pointed at the door. "Let me put these things away, ok?"
Maxie sighed. "Alright."
He didn't like the sounds of that sigh. Even with Maxie still smiling at him, Archie kissed the redhead on the lips. He didn't want Maxie to think he wasn't in the mood. Well, he wasn't in the mood, but he could very well be once everything was put away, and he had time to change out of his pants, maybe into some airy shorts. And a tank top. And he was thirsty.
"Give me ten minutes," he asked, pouting his lips at Maxie. "Y'know how girls like to freshen up? Yeah, I'll be needin a few minutes to get ready."
Maxie shook his head. "You're aware of how dumb you sound right now?" Archie smiled as he saw Maxie bring up his hand to cover the growing smirk on his face.
"Yer fightin' to keep it in," Archie remarked. Maxie looked away. Archie lifted his other hand up and tried to grab the redhead's face and force Maxie to stare at him with that spreading grin of his.
"It's a struggle," Maxie sarcastically replied back, swatting Archie's hand out of the way. Archie felt Maxie's grip on him dwindle, until all that was left were some fingers holding on to his middle one. "But I can't say no to those Lillipup eyes."
Maxie stared up at him, still giving him that collected grin of his, but with an added look of neediness. Archie already had a timer going down in the back of his mind. He didn't want to disappoint.
"Just a sec," he said. He rushed into his room and dropped his things. He could hear Maxie enter his, probably getting some things ready for later. In ten minutes. Archie dropped to a squat and pulled out a few notebooks from his bag.
He opened the first one and stared at some notes he had taken just before leaving, remembering the less than positive results. He glanced over them for just a minute before standing back up and placing everything in the right apple crate. There wasn't much time to think about the Grimer now. Not with only nine minutes.
He released his Pokémon from their balls. Archie opened the window as wide as he could, in case Golbat wanted to squeeze its way out and take a short flight.
He had eight minutes to lay some food out, think about the trip to Dewford, Maxie's birthday, and then get into the mood. Archie had a feeling there wouldn't be enough time for all of this.
Archie left his room and hurried into the kitchen. His Poochyena raced after him, stopping at the food bowl to get its meal. Archie rummaged through the cupboard and picked out a few dried snacks for his Golbat. He took a glass of water with him back to his room. He caught Maxie pushing out his Mightyena and closing the door behind it. Archie looked down at the Pokémon and felt guilty for being the cause of its displeasure.
Golbat happily feasted on its treats while Archie questioned whether it would be worth jumping into the hammock and trying to relax with only five minutes left on the clock. The small Zubat fluttered in, no doubt a victim to Maxie's sudden purge, and made itself comfortable in Archie's sliding-door closet.
With only about four minutes left, Archie caught a glimpse of the two colorful Poké Balls resting on top of an apple crate. He walked over and picked up the Dive Ball, admiring its brilliant hues. He was reminded that he would be leaving for Dewford in a few days. Archie made a note that he would bring the Dive and Net Ball with him on the trip.
Archie kicked off his shoes. Maxie was passionate. That was a good thing. Just because Archie didn't quite comprehend passion as well as Maxie didn't mean he wasn't able to appreciate it. He liked that Maxie wanted to kiss him all the time, or touch him, or just be with him. That was something special.
He tossed his socks into the closet and heard a grumble from the Zubat trying to rest inside of it.
Archie liked getting kissed, and he liked sending Golbat out so that he could have lure Maxie out and kiss him back. He liked Maxie, loved the attention, the comments, and all the new jokes between the two of them. Spending more time together was great, and having something to grab on to at night made sleeping easier.
He was starting to learn what Maxie liked. He was still trying to get himself in the mood and figure out what made sex so darn important. But Maxie made it fun. Maxie liked to push him and force him on the bed. He liked to yank off his clothes and run his hand through Archie's hair. Every move Maxie made was determined and full of drive. Archie wanted to figure out Maxie better so that he could show that same kind of ambition. Archie imagined once he had all of Maxie figured out everything else would start to come together.
Was he worried that it was taking longer than he imagined?
Archie realized he was running out of time. He looked down at himself. There wasn't that spark and he privately admitted he was just…the slightest bit concerned.
Archie left his room. He played with the bottom rim of his shirt while he stared at Maxie's door, unsure if he should knock or barge right in. He spent every other night in that room now. Obviously he was more than just a guest. But the door was closed, and Maxie liked it when he knocked. The current situation suggested it might be better for him to just hurry in.
He reached for the knob. The door opened before he could grab it. Maxie peeked out and stared up at Archie.
The redhead smiled. Archie relaxed and smiled back.
"Is Mightyena around?" Maxie asked, tilting his head slightly in order to catch a glimpse at what might be behind Archie.
"Nah, I think it went over to–"
Maxie grabbed Archie and pulled him right in, and Archie could tell by the way Maxie was kissing him and tugging at his clothes that he wasn't going to be getting a lot of planning done today.
The trip to Dewford was a nice steady boat ride that lasted a few hours. Archie spent most of his time listening to Tiffany explain her tribal backgrounds. He rubbed Maxie's back, playfully scolding him for making the mistake of focusing on the swaying motions of the boat. Matt offered some ginger ale to help ease the nausea.
There was something about being in the middle of the ocean that Archie found incredibly calming. The weather was fair. Wingull and Pelipper few across the water's surface.. The water made pleasing sounds as it splashed into the boat's sides. Even Maxie, sick as he was, admitted that the scene had a certain element of tranquility to it.
They landed on the tiny island around noon. Maxie continued to nurse on his beverage as Tiffany and Matt escorted them across the town. Tiffany was extra sweet and pointed out various places of interest for the two men to check out later. Maxie listened and took quiet notes on the information given. Archie spent most of the conversation just trying to take in the new scenery.
Dewford was different from any of the cities Archie had visited. The island was too small to warrant any of the major chain restaurants or markets. There weren't any paved roads on the island. It was only a half hour walk from the town to the reservation. Archie continued partaking in some sightseeing. Dewford was small, but there was still a lot to see. The island had its mountains, and it had a small, but lush forest. Archie wondered if there would be time later to explore the island and make use of the balls he had brought with him.
The town was tiny, but it was still populated enough. There had been some shops. The town had its distractions. People and Pokémon still kept things busy. It was a quiet town, but Archie could recognize that it was a town.
Tiffany's reservation was sparse. It made the town look crowded.
There were some buildings scattered across the empty space. And trees. Archie was sure there were more trees on the reservation than anything else. Nothing appeared well kept. Teenagers walked around with the same aimless stare. But if it weren't for them and their wanderings, Archie would have assumed he had entered ghost town.
"This is it," Tiffany exclaimed. She led the three men over to a small house with a Linoone resting at the porch.
Maxie's teeth bit against the top of his can. Archie watched his boyfriend examine the little, one story house, looking incredibly indifferent by its appearance.
"It's quaint," Maxie finally muttered. His tongue stuck out a bit as he brought the opening of the can to his lips, taking another small sip of his warm ginger ale. "Reminds me of Cinnabar."
"You're from Cinnabar?" Matt asked.
"I've been," Maxie answered.
"That's awesome," Matt loudly proclaimed. He looked over to Archie. "Your boyfriend's been around, eh?"
Archie looked over to Maxie, hoping to get some kind of sign on how to respond to that remark. The man continued to play with his can of ginger ale. The two finally made some eye contact with each other. Maxie just smiled at him.
"By the way," Tiffany said. "While here, it's best if you two…"
"Play a more conservative role," Maxie finished, still looking up at Archie. "Understandable."
"I'm sorry," Tiffany laughed. She looked embarrassed. "My family and I don't really care, but there are just some people here who will look for anything to be upset at."
Archie looked around the silent neighborhood.
"If they give my bro a problem," Matt said, "I'll just have a word with them and that'll solve the problem right away!"
"Matt." Tiffany whined.
"It's alright," Archie interjected, placing a hand on Matt's shoulder. "I get it. We gotta keep out of trouble."
"Trouble?" Matt shook his head. Archie quickly realized his mistake. "Bro, you sure about that? I invited you so you and your boyfriend could have some fun."
"And we will," Maxie replied back. He nudged Archie. "You don't need me to hold your hand in order to have fun, right?"
Archie blushed. He scratched his head, looking away. "Hahaha, no way. "
"You see?" Maxie said to Tiffany. "We'll be fine. Thank you for allowing us to spend the weekend over here. I know we'll have a wonderful time."
Tiffany giggled. She and Matt went ahead and brought everything inside of the house. Archie remained where he stood, looking around and counting the few people who walked around the reservation without any sort of direction. There were a lot of kids on the land, but not too many adults.
"What are you thinking about?" Maxie quietly asked.
Archie kicked up some dirt with his shoe. "I figured it'd be more like Pacifidlog town."
"I thought you were from Lilycove?"
"I am." Archie stared at a few distant houses spread across the area. "My mom was from Pacifidlog." He made his way over to the house. "Haven't been there since I was a kid, but I remember it being more lively."
"Considering the town is situated in the middle of the ocean, I imagine it would have to be," Maxie commented.
The two went up the porch. Archie stopped and gave the quiet Linoone a little pat on the head before disappearing inside.
After settling in, the four were given a small welcome meal. Archie pushed Maxie into finishing his fried bread. Casual family chatter took place in the meantime, with Tiffany going over her accomplishments with her parents. Archie remembered the list he had written to his father. He did the math in his head and realized in a few weeks he'd gone an entire year since speaking with the man. He picked at his meal while Tiffany's parents asked Matt if he had found himself a nice job to support their daughter.
With just a few bites left Archie learned that Matt had also grown up on the reservation. Matt changed the subject, insisting that Tiffany be given more time to shine. Archie continued to play with his food, occasionally forcing another bite out of Maxie, but made sure to remember Matt's reaction to the topic of his past.
After their meal, Tiffany showed them around the reservation. She brought them to the visiting center. Maxie collected a few pamphlets explaining the history behind Granite Cave, how it earned its name, and what sort of rituals once took place inside. Archie watched Maxie stare at a one of the pictures depicted on the pamphlet. He looked interested. Archie wanted to be a good boyfriend and take him to see all the exciting rocks and cave formations.
Tiffany left to meet up with some friends, leaving Matt to finish the rest of the tour. He showed the two various trails they could take that would take them up the mountains, or through the forests. He let them know about the various stores on the reservation where they could buy interesting handmade paraphernalia. He brought Archie and Maxie over to the edge of Route 106, and informed them of the smaller islands that surrounded Dewford, and the Pokémon ferries they could take to get there.
"And it's super cheap," Matt declared, pointing over at the small pier and the Wailmers resting by it. "There isn't much to see, other than some old ruins. Most of the time people go out there to surf or chill with their Pokémon."
"So it's relatively empty?" Maxie asked.
Archie blinked, stopping himself from reacting to Maxie's comment.
Matt laughed, nudging his very large elbow against Maxie, practically pushing the man off balance. "I catch your drift, Max. Yeah, if you go north enough, by the ruins, you'll have all the privacy you could hope for!" He waited for Maxie to recompose himself before continuing. "You need to keep an eye out for any wandering water Pokémon though. They normally don't bother, but the Tentacruel can be a little touchy."
"We'll try to remember that," Maxie muttered, rubbing his arm.
"Anything else you two would like to know about?" Matt asked.
"Oh, Granite Cave," Archie said. "Where's that?"
"Oh, that?" Matt replied, looking a little perplexed at Archie question. "That's not too far. Just a ten minute walk from the main trail."
"Cool," Archie answered.
"Eh, it's alright." Matt shrugged. "A lot of the artifacts had to get removed, once it became a tourist attraction. It's pretty empty now, just a few cave painting from a long time ago."
"Do you know what the historical significance behind them are?" Maxie asked. "The information on the pamphlet wasn't too descriptive."
"A lot of it is ol' Longhair mumbo jumbo," Matt answered, raising his hands up and dismissing the question. "I'm a bit more modern. I don't really believe that some giant, never-before-seen water Pokémon has the ability to expand the ocean. I mean, have you read the stuff?"
Maxie lowered his eyes down at the pamphlet he was holding. "Well, yes," he muttered. "It says it has the power to wash away the sins of humanity."
"With rain," Matt added. "And rain comes from the ocean. How on earth are you supposed to expand the ocean using water that comes right from the ocean?"
"Well…" Archie shrugged. "It is just a legend. But it's an interestin' one." He looked over at Maxie and smiled. "And I figured ya might be interested in it."
"Because rocks?" Maxie asked.
Archie chuckled. "Yeah, but nicer soundin'. Like, stalactites and such." He scratched his head. "Y'know, the pointy rocks that hang from the cave?"
Maxie smirked at him. "You pass this round." He turned to Matt. "I guess we'll be heading over to the cave."
Archie turned to Matt. "Would you like to–"
"What? Me?" Matt looked shocked at the offer. "No, you two go ahead…I need to find Tiffany. We'll meet up later, back on the reservation."
"Ya sure?" Archie asked.
"Oh, yeah," Matt laughed out. "I don't want to get in the way."
"Well," Maxie said, "if you insist." The remark surprised Archie. He raised his hand, but Maxie stopped him with a stare. It was a cross between a warning and a look of worry.
"I'll see you two later," Matt said.
"Yes, back at your girlfriend's," Maxie remarked. He carefully brought his hand over to Archie's, grabbing hold of it right in front of Matt.
Archie watched Matt continue to laugh and smile at him and Maxie, giving the two of them a wave before going back in the direction of the town. Maxie continued to hold Archie's hand until Matt was at a far enough distance for him to let go.
"You should try bonding him when it's just the two of you." Maxie began to walk ahead of Archie. "It's quite clear he doesn't feel comfortable talking about personal matters with certain people."
"I wonder why?" Archie said, following Maxie over to the main trail.
"He said he'd meet up with his girlfriend," Maxie continued. "He made no mention of visiting his own family. Or friends." He lifted up the pamphlet and offered it to Archie to read. "And he isn't very close to this islands history or culture."
Archie took it and opened it up, staring at a faded picture depicting some kind of strange creature covering the walls. "He's alone," he muttered.
"Yes," Maxie said. "Or, at least he chooses to be."
"And we let him go off alone," Archie added.
Maxie didn't reply. He slowed his pace and let Archie catch up with him. He didn't try to grab his hand again, or show some affection, even though they were finally alone. It made Archie nervous. Maxie kept to himself as he led them in the direction of the cave.
They passed a sign and a few big rocks. Archie didn't think they mattered. Maxie didn't appear to care about them. The sky was filled with Wingulls calling out to each other. They were still alone, and Maxie wasn't trying to grab or kiss him. He looked deep in thought. Archie wondered if he might be upset. He tried to focus his attention on the sand and gravel filling up in his shoes.
Finally, Maxie sighed. "He trusts you. You should try talking to him." He crossed his arms. "I can't say he'll open up. But he does look up to you. And you can always remind him you saved his life."
Maxie looked up at him. The two stood in front of the entrance to Granite Cave.
"I think it's rather nice that you want to talk to him," Maxie added.
"Really?" Archie asked. He looked over at the cave's large entrance. He couldn't see any pointy rocks hanging from the ceiling.
Maxie carefully touched Archie's hand with his own. Archie spread his fingers and let Maxie's shaky hand clasp on to his.
"I'm sorry if I appeared indifferent," he heard Maxie say. "Or worse, jealous."
Maxie, jealous? He couldn't imagine it. Archie sighed, shaking his head and allowing a smile to show. He looked over and continued smiling at the redhead, letting him know he wasn't upset with him. He'd take Maxie's advice and try to make time to talk with Matt later.
He leaned over and pressed his face into Maxie's hair. "Let's go inside."
The sudden rise of heat between the two signified forgiveness.
Mightyena's intimidating appearance kept most of the weaker leveled, wild Pokémon out of sight. Archie kept a hand close to Golbat's Poké Ball, just in case.
The air tasted like seawater, and it left Archie feeling parched. Maxie made frequent stops to enjoy the scenery. Archie licked and rubbed his lips, continuing when he felt Maxie's hand gently pulled him forward.
It didn't take long for Archie to get bored. Being in a cave could only provide so much entertainment. Even with Mightyena running amok and chasing after wild Zubats, there wasn't really anything going on. Holding hands was kind of boring too. Archie was glad Maxie was enjoying the scenery. He liked it when Maxie started talking about the cave's formation. Maxie normally didn't speak so fast, but right now he sounded excited, enough to forget to dumb down his geologist talk and use vocabulary that Archie could comprehend. Archie let his boyfriend go on, nodding his head in agreement, pretending he understood everything being relayed to him. It was fun to watch.
Maxie stopped. "The trail splits into two."
Archie looked at a detailed sign posted in front of them. There was and arrow pointing up, next to it the were the words "basement levels." Right underneath were a few warnings, letting them know there would be a limited source of light, as well as an assortment of aggressive, wild Pokémon.
Mightyena barked at something.
There was another arrow on the sign. It pointed to the right, and next to it was the word "chamber."
"The cave paintin's are in the chamber, right?" Archie asked.
Matt pulled out the worn pamphlet from his bag, opening it up and giving a nod to Archie. "Looks like it."
"Let's check that out first," Archie suggested. "Should be quick. And then we can check out other parts of the cave…maybe catch a few Pokémon?" He lifted his shirt and pointed excitedly at the empty Dive and Net Ball on his person. Mightyena skipped up to them, wagging its tail.
Maxie frowned while giving his Pokémon a pet on the head. "Not exactly choice balls. I'd suggest you save those for a water Pokémon, otherwise you'll risk having something break out of them."
Archie rolled his eyes.
The two went further into the cave. The air became heavier. Damper. Archie enjoyed the moist scent, but longed to get back outside. Maybe he'd take Maxie out to the beach. They could even visit those islands up north. Mightyena could distract any water Pokémon, Maxie could have fun with them having privacy, and Archie could just relax and spend time with the redhead.
The two approached a small carved out opening.
Archie was about to comment on the strange colors on the cave walls surrounding the opening, but realized they were ancient depictions of Pokémon and people.
He stopped. Maxie followed, letting him lift his head up to try to make out the theatrical scene. There were Pokémon all over the wall. Some of them he could recognize, but most of them he could not. He saw people with them, running alongside with them, either chasing after something, or fleeing…but what?
"These are supposed to tell a story, right?" he asked, turning to Maxie.
The redhead nodded. "I believe so. But then, these were painted well over a thousand years ago…the pamphlet suggests that a few carvings and artwork go even further back."
Archie went back to staring up at the auburn walls. Each black figure was up to something.
"It doesn't say?" Archie asked again.
"I imagine the visitors center will have more information," Maxie admitted. He let go of Archie's hand and opened the pamphlet. "Give me a second…Mightyena, no. Stay."
Archie walked over to the opening leading up to the chamber. His eyes rested on all the etchings that had been done. Some were from a thousand years ago, but others were older? How was a story supposed to be told if ancient people kept adding on new artwork? That didn't make any sense. Maybe Matt was on to something.
There was an urge to touch the paintings. Archie could make out a few carved mounds that could represent houses, hills, or mountains. He wanted to press his fingers in and try to get a feel of what was going on. What were all these people running from?
Archie stared at the opening. It was small and out of shape, and would require some flexibility to squeeze through. Maxie was taking his time reading through what little information the brochure was willing to offer. Archie was curious and wanted to see what was inside.
"Hurry up," he called out to Maxie. He heard Mightyena bark back. Archie went through the opening.
There was a surprising amount of light inside of the chamber. Archie didn't have to squint his eyes in order to discover the huge altar and pillars leading to the gigantic mural in front of him.
The mural.
Archie stopped in his place as he stared up at it. "Whoa…"
It was a Pokémon he had never seen before. It was a behemoth that burst out of swirling waves; empty eyes wide open, with its flippers up towards the sky, like arms held up in prayer. Surrounding it was a surplus of short, dark lines. Rain. This giant Pokémon was summoning the rain.
Archie took a few steps closer. He could make out the dark formation of clouds hovering above the Pokémon. Impossibly huge rainclouds, painted in black ink, producing the dark lines that filled up any available space on the wall.
Archie made his way up the ancient stairs. He heard footsteps. Maxie and his Pokémon were behind him. Mightyena walked around the large room. Maxie muttered something. Archie didn't know what. He didn't care.
There were so many other things going on. Archie could see the jagged, sharp etchings filled with deep red ink, making up the shape of lightening. He saw the strange, claw like structure at the ends of the Pokémon's flippers. He noticed the people: tiny little sticks that were smaller in comparison to the Pokémon summoning the storm. And these people were getting tossed aside. Their frantic, faceless bodies were strewn about in the air, like ragged Poké dolls used up after a long fight.
Archie finished his trek up the platform and raised his head up high.
The picture was…unbelievable. It made him feel small. Archie was still trying to absorb it all in. His eyes wandered around every detail. People. Waves. Thunder and lightening. Something in the sky? A rainbow?
The Pokémon.
"What is it?" he asked aloud.
"Kee-Oh-Gray." He remembered Maxie was right behind him. "…I think that's how it's pronounced."
Archie blinked. He stared at the giant Pokémon's pupilless stare. His hand hovered over the painted wall. "Kyogre."
"It says this Pokémon is viewed to be the personification of the sea," Maxie went on. "Specifically, this picture depicts Kyogre in its primal form, where it personifies the rage and unlimited power that comes from the sea."
Archie stared at the strange triangular formation that flew across the sky. It was the only part of the sky that wasn't covered in clouds or rain. The decorated triangle had lines all around it, emphasizing that it was of some kind of importance.
"What else does it say?" Archie asked.
He waited for Maxie. His eyed lowered on the rainbow at the far left corner. It was a rainbow, right? Why was there a rainbow, when so many bad things were going on? Why was there a sparkling triangle?
"It says primal Kyogre is enacting its vengeance upon humanity."
Right, the ancient people thought this Pokémon was a god. He remembered that part of the legend, from Maxie. It was washing away sins. The giant clouds, the thunder and lightening, and the storm it brought was the Pokémon cleaning up humanity's mess.
That didn't explain the sparkling triangle. Nor did it explain the little rainbow at the end of the picture.
This mural was a story.
"Anything else?"
He listened to Maxie walking up the steps and stopping right next to him. "We'll need to go back to the visiting center if you want more information." Archie turned and stared at the redhead. "Would you like to learn more about this?" Maxie asked him.
Archie turned back to the giant painting. Kyogre was creating a serious storm. But if he was reading all of this correctly, there was more going on. There was a rainbow. Rainbows always appeared at the end of a storm.
And then there was that shiny triangle up in the sky, almost like a comet. It was like a beacon of hope. A shooting star. A wish.
Archie grinned and grabbed Maxie. "Yeah!" He felt Maxie heat up underneath him. Mightyena rushed up and began yipping excitedly. Maybe it was the damp atmosphere surrounding the two of them, but Archie was enjoying Maxie's warmth more than usual. "Let's go!"
The two went down the altar. Maxie gave the cave painting one final glance before laving the chamber. Archie didn't. Seeing it at a distance wouldn't be the same as experiencing it up close.
He made his way through the opening, this time taking Maxie's hand, and leading him and Mightyena out of the cave.
As Archie had suspected, there were different explanations to the story behind the painting. Portions of the artwork had undergone revision over the last thousand years, making it hard to determine what the ancient Hoenn people might have been trying to tell. Archie knew there was more to the picture than a Pokémon causing a massive storm.
It was late in the afternoon. Although Archie was still distracted with his interpretation of the artwork, the two decided to wander around the island some more. They chose to hike around the mountainous region, and Archie followed Maxie at a distance, huffing, breathing hard and admiring the man's surprising amount stamina.
They had dinner at a small restaurant with Matt and Tiffany. While Maxie and Tiffany talked over a few future events, Archie focused his attention on Matt, trying to start a good conversation with him. Archie mentioned how cool the painting was, and that the legend behind it was more than just some mumbo jumbo.
A majority of the night was spent staring up at the sky. First outside, with some drinks at hand, and then later in the room Archie shared with Maxie. Even though he liked how warm Maxie was, and found hair playing to be a reasonable means of passing the time (especially with how long and soft Maxie's hair was), Archie ended up spending most of the night awake, standing by the window, waiting for the restless feeling inside to dwindle.
Late to bed, and early to rise, Archie sat on the front porch and listened to Wingull flocking to the shore, wondering if he was picking up on Maxie's strange habits. Matt made his appearance and stood behind him, having a smoke.
"Whats up?" Archie asked.
"Nothing much," Matt answered. "You?"
"Great," Archie exclaimed, smiling up at the man. "Glad t'be here."
He went back to staring at the rising sun, moving himself to one side. Matt took the silent offer and filled his half of the space, and then some. He offered Archie a smoke. He politely refused. Archie waited for the air to warm some more before speaking up.
"Tiffany's real sweet."
"Yeah, I know," Matt replied. "I'm luck to have her." Matt flicked away some ash. He stared out at the purpling sky.
Archie looked at him. "But…?"
Matt shrugged.
"Come on now." Archie rubbed his temple. "Somethin's eatin you."
Matt finished his cigarette and tossed the butt. Archie watched a tiny trail of smoke disappear in the air. "I know you probably never had to worry about these things," he began, "but whenever I'm here, heck, even back at Slateport…I just wonder if I'm doing enough."
"You seem alright," Archie commented.
"Yeah." Matt leaned back, resting his weight on his massive arms and hands. "But then I go back here. And Tiffany's having a blast visiting everyone, but I remember why I left this place. And I feel bad because I haven't really made anything for myself back over in Slateport."
Archie leaned forward. The air was getting warmer, but he still had goose bumps covering his arms. Maxie was right about Matt. Of course he was. Archie would be sure to not bring it up until much later.
"And that's bad?" he asked.
"Well, yeah." Matt smiled up at the sky. He looked hurt. "Tiffany's gone to school. She's got a great job. And she's a great trainer." He looked down at the single Poké Ball resting at his side. "I wouldn't have Marill without her."
"Yer a lucky guy," Archie said.
"And you went to Johto," Matt exclaimed. "And Maxie's been to Cinnabar Island."
Archie rested his back on the porch. "Life ain't a race. Yer supposed to just live it, y'know?"
"That's just it." Matt looked down at Archie. "You saved my life. I've done nothing…and if you didn't pull me out of that storm, I'd have drowned. And that'd be it."
Archie stared at Matt. "Do ya believe in second chances?" He felt his face heat up. He knew he had to keep himself from getting too personal with certain details.
"I guess I have no choice now," Matt said, laughing at the end. He sat himself upright. "I was pretty sure I was gonna die. You fixed that."
"Well." Archie turned his head to the side. "You know what to do now. Just live it up."
Matt laughed some more. "I know. It's just finding a job–"
"Don't worry about getting a job right now." Archie pulled himself back up. He looked at Matt. "Work on what yer good at right now. Figure things out." He stood up and stretched his arms out, staring out into the distance of the empty reservation. "When ya know what ya wanna do, then do it."
"Bro…"
"Right now, yer girl's happy. Keep her happy." Archie jumped off the porch and spun himself around, facing Matt. "Really, yer pretty good at keepin' people happy."
Matt provided a small clap.
"And you'll figure somethin' out," Archie added. He looked at the space around him. "Wonder if I should try fer another spin…what do ya think?"
Matt shook his head. "You gotta stop, man." He leaned forward, shaking his head. "You're too much."
"Give me a sec," Archie said. "I'm on a roll." He cracked his knuckles. "I've done some things."
"You?" Matt didn't appear to believe it. "But you're so…"
"Shit happens," Archie interjected. Matt nodded his head. Archie shrugged, trying to think up what to say next. "And I've been given a second chance. I'm not about to pretend things worked out exactly as planned, but…"
Archie thought about it. He was continuing his education. He had friends. He had a job. He had his Pokémon. He had a nice little room to call his own. He had Maxie.
"But it worked out," he finished. "Worked out just fine."
Matt grinned. "Yeah, I feel you." He suddenly raised a brow. "You alright? Your face is looking a little red around the edges?"
Archie rubbed his face. "It's cold," he said.
Matt nodded. "Yeah, it's a little nippy out here. I suppose you'll want to head back in then?"
"Yeah," Archie said, looking away.
"Without doing so much as a kick flip, or karate chop?"
Archie snorted, turning back to Matt. "Ya want me to show you what I'm capable of?"
"Ha!" Matt stood up from his seat. "Nah, I believe you." He made his way over to the door. "Plus I'd hate to wake up everyone."
"On account of me being so awesome?" Archie asked, hurrying back up to the porch.
"Oh, you know it bro," Matt said, slapping Archie on the back of his shoulder.
Archie stumbled forward. He brought himself back up without making too much noise.
"Archie."
Archie stopped and faced Matt. "Yeah?"
The larger man still stood by the open door. "Thanks," he replied. "It's nice being able to talk about some things…not too much, but sometimes."
Archie nodded his head. "Yeah, it is."
Maxie eventually awoke. Archie decided that he'd take Maxie out to see those other ruins up north, but Maxie insisted he go without him. The young man wasn't feeling very well. Too much sun. Archie did what he could to coax the redhead out of bed. He brought him food, water, some aspirin. Maxie curled up in the sheets and implored Archie to go and have fun.
He and Matt went to the beach. He rented a board. The waves were nice. The water was clear and felt so different compared to Slateport's. But something felt like it was missing, and Archie had a hard time concentrating and enjoying it.
While Matt went to grab lunch, Archie sent out his Pokémon and decided to let them have fun by the shore. Matt returned, and the two continued to talk. Archie noticed right away how much easier it was for Matt to open up when it was just the two of them. His Poochyena chased the tides. Archie couldn't shake off the feeling that something was missing. He wondered if he should have stayed on the reservation.
The two visited a few shops and Archie eyed some cut stones with gems in the middle. He stared at a few rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and other fine jewelry adorned with pretty rocks. He wished the stores carried something more masculine. He sighed and realized he was better off staying at the reservation.
After the store, Archie went back, thinking up ways to try to make up for lost time. He wondered if Maxie might want to go home now.
He went inside and was greeted with Maxie sitting at the counter with Tiffany, drinking dark coffee and looking well. Maxie looked just as surprised as Archie felt about the entire thing. The redhead brought himself over to Archie, explaining how much better he felt, and that he was willing to go wherever Archie wanted. Tiffany mentioned what a quick healer the man was, and that going outside wouldn't be a problem. Archie had Maxie bring an umbrella.
They visited the islands. Archie forgot to bring his extra Poké Balls with him. Maxie laughed. Archie stopped himself from pushing his sick boyfriend off the Wailmer.
The two walked around the tiny land fragments. Archie hovered over Maxie, umbrella between them, listening to Maxie talk about how such small islands hosted a variety of life, how incredible it was, and how amazing it would be if there was more land throughout Hoenn.
The ruins weren't anything special. Maxie made note of their unusual alignment, but all Archie could see were a collection of large rocks. Maxie rubbed himself up against Archie. He offered the redhead some water. Then food. Then insisted they find some shade.
He had his hand up against Maxie's forehead, testing the man's body heat, making sure it didn't get too warm during their quick liaison. But then his hand got warm, and his arm grew tired and stiff, and he had that impossible need to hold on to something, so he gave up and blessed the power of modern medicine.
A quick swim cleaned off the sand sticking to his back and stomach. The two remained on the island for a bit longer, Maxie sitting by a palm tree, and Archie resting by. Maxie asked what Pacifidlog was like. Archie explained it was fun, a real experience. It was a town that floated gently on top of the waves. The structure was always sound. If Maxie could learn to relax, he'd take him there some day. It had been a long time since he had visited.
Maxie petted him and asked why he stopped. Archie answered that his mother would take him during the summer, and once she got sick they stopped going. He had some friends and family over there, but it was too far away. He couldn't afford the trip. His mother could barely afford it when they had been a family.
The conversation dropped. Maxie knelt down and promised they'd go once he started working on his doctorate.
Archie couldn't believe such a promise. It made his chest ache. He grabbed Maxie's arm and used it to cover his eyes.
They made it back to the reservation just before the sky turned a mixture of purple and orange. There were a few young delinquents running around, smoking and drinking and making merry, reminding Archie of when he was younger.
Matt and Tiffany let them know the last boat to Slateport left at eight. The four had a light meal and Archie listened to Tiffany's parents talk to her about simple troubles. Archie thought about Lilycove City. He thought about the letter he had sent. He struggled to finish his meal, and this time Maxie was reminding him to hurry and take another bite.
They packed their bags.
Matt walked with them back to town, cheerier than ever, this time starting up a conversation with Maxie all on his own. Archie nudged his boyfriend to supply a few brief answers. He liked that the two were talking to each other.
After getting their tickets checked, Maxie and Archie rested on the pier and waited for the boat to be ready for docking. Archie and Matt had their goodbye, the larger man wishing the two a safe journey home.
The air grew colder and sea winds kept making their way up Archie's back. Maxie covered himself up and pressed himself against Archie, not caring if his glasses were crooked. Archie extended an arm around him. He continued staring out to sea.
"This was fun," he said.
"It was," Maxie muttered into his jacket.
"Too bad you got sick." Archie leaned in closer to Maxie. "You remembered to bring some extra medicine with you, right?"
Maxie stared up at Archie. "You know I wasn't sick, right?"
"What?" Archie asked.
Maxie chuckled. "Unbelievable." He pulled Archie off of him and grabbed his messenger bag, unzipping it and going through its contents. He pulled out a paper bag. Maxie stared at it, looking a little nervous. "Uhm." The man unfolded the top of the bag and pulled out a book. He held it up to Archie.
It was dark outside, but Archie could see the man's blushing face. He frowned. "Max…"
Maxie handed him the book. "This is for you."
Archie sighed, dropping his shoulder and shaking his head.
"I remember how excited you were when you saw the painting." Maxie pushed the book into Archie's chest. Archie looked away as he snatched it up. "And you wanted to know more about the legend. Since the information center only provided so much…"
Archie looked down at the cover of the book. "Ancient Hoenn Sacred Texts," he muttered.
"I asked Tiffany if she knew of any places where they might carry more information." Archie felt Maxie wrap his arm around his frame. He continued to stare at the book. "The reservation had a bookstore that had an entire section dedicated to various ancient Hoenn myths and legends."
Maxie bought him a gift. Maxie's birthday was in a few weeks, and he went ahead and bought him a gift.
Archie made a face as he opened the cover. He flipped through several pages, catching glimpses of strange, elaborate artwork set between several pages of stories, theories, modern interpretations, and criticisms.
"There's an entire section dedicated to Kyogre," Maxie added. Archie watched the man's pale hand come in the way of the book. Archie stared at it. Something inside of him began to ache.
"Ya bought this fer me?" he muttered.
"Yes," Maxie answered.
He wanted to ask why. His birthday wasn't for another year. And Archie was still trying to think up something to do for Maxie. He wanted to push his face against the book and hide behind it. He wanted to throw it into ocean. Archie wanted to hit Maxie's face with the stupid book.
"Thanks." Archie lowered his arm, letting it and the book rest at his side. He wrinkled his nose, staring helplessly at Maxie. "This was really kind of ya…you." He blinked. His heart just kept beating harder. He felt like running away. Why would Maxie do this to him?
Maxie's cool finger's wrapped around his. Archie stared down at it, smiling, but still feeling really hurt and confused, but in a good way.
Somebody called out that it was time to start boarding. Maxie looked over in the direction of the boat. The moment he broke eye contact, Archie nearly dropped his book. His arms wrapped around Maxie's thin frame, stopping Maxie from going any further.
Archie held on tight, pressing his face into the man's shoulder. His heart sped up. He didn't know what to say. One hand squeezed the book. The other on Maxie's chest, detecting the redhead's rapid heart rate, the only indicator that Archie wasn't going crazy. He felt crazy. This was all very crazy. But it felt good. Holding Maxie like his life depended on it felt very good. Archie's face was hot, and his mind was racing, but he just wanted to take Maxie and stuff him away somewhere, where only he could find him. He wanted to yank that stupid hood off of Maxie's head and feel his soft hair against his face.
He felt Maxie's head turn slightly. Archie felt a small amount of heat from the man's cheek.
"I take it you really like it," Maxie chuckled.
Archie wished he could articulate how the gift made him feel. How Maxie was making him feel right now.
He nodded his head.
"I'm glad," Maxie said. "Really, I'm flattered right now."
Archie wanted to run off with Maxie. He wanted to push him away. He wanted to never let the man go. He wanted the embrace to last forever. It felt so damn good. Why did Maxie do this to him? He'd never find a way to top this feeling.
"We're going to miss the trip back home if we keep this up." It was the nicest sounding warning Archie had ever heard.
What was he going to do? Maxie could laugh all he wanted, could smile at Archie and stare at him with his intense red eyes and tell him that his smiles were the sexiest thing in the world, but right now Archie was feeling so overwhelmed. And it amazed him just how well it all fit together. And he didn't want to the hug to end.
"Come on," Maxie said, pulling a bit. "We can do this on the boat."
Archie sighed. "I know."
Maxie turned his head as far as he could. Archie lifted his, staring at the man's pale cheek. His arms eased, dropping back to his sides. His chest felt cool. The hand holding on to the book hurt.
Maxie pulled his hood down. He turned and stared up at Archie, not caring that the wind was making a mess of his hair.
"That felt really nice."
Archie smiled. "I know."
He readjusted his bag and made an immediate grab for Maxie's hand. The redhead smirked and threw a few remarks about buying more books in the future.
Archie held on tight to Maxie's hand, feeling the warm afterglow begin to dwindle around him, but still somehow linger inside of his mind and chest, only growing more as he and Maxie boarded.
He tried not to think too much the rest of the way back home. Archie knew he had things to do once he got back, but right now he had Maxie resting by his side, barley keeping his dinner in, and all Archie really wanted to do was play with the man's hair and tell him he'd be ok, they were almost there, and mean every word of it. He fanned some air in Maxie's direction with the book, forgetting there was anything else. He did his best not to move around and let his boyfriend get some much-needed rest.
Waiting back home was several days' worth of depressing notes that needed to get typed out. The graduate student would tease him for taking a few days off and playing catch up.
He had to make up hours back at the bookstore. He had to get Maxie something nice for his birthday. He wanted to have that feeling all over again. He wanted Maxie to know. He had to do something, and the only way that was going to happen was to try earning back the hours he lost while he was away.
Archie rested his head on top of Maxie's. His eyelids fluttered. The hug had ended, but the feeling wouldn't end.
Nothing could ruin this moment.
They'd miss the bus and have to wait an extra half-hour, but they'd hold hands doing it, and Maxie would be a little annoyed, but Archie would laugh it off and end up getting assaulted by the man's thin lips. They'd get drowsy on the way back and have to take multiple stops to yawn and keep themselves awake, but Archie would wrap himself around Maxie, push his weight against him, and listen to Maxie grumble and fight his way out.
They'd get home early in the morning, tired, weak, and sore all over. Bags were left in the living room to be dealt with later. The Pokémon needed to go out one final time.
They'd barely get their clothes off before jumping into the bed, Archie forgetting the covers altogether.
They'd fall asleep together, and Maxie would keep him warm.
Archie would wake up alone, and Maxie would already be halfway to the university.
Archie would turn to his side, stare at the drawer and the letter leaning against the lamp. He'd see it was addressed to him. He'd see his official name scribbled on the letter, and then he'd notice the return address.
The letter was from Lilycove.