Just your average Pika
Chapter 8: The Die is cast
Pokémon is copyright Nintendo and Gamefreak. I intend no copyright infringement with this work.
The aftermath of Pike's night with Rachel, Pike admits to Amper just why he wasn't quite willing to go all of the way with her despite his feelings. An emergency forces Pike to use his pikachu abilities.
Again, although I rated this teen, I might rate this chapter a mild M.
---
Light streamed though the windows in Rachel's spare bedroom. The sound of birds chirping flew in with the mild morning air.
Pike opened his eyes. He Saw Rachel curled up in front of him on the bed. He immediately bolted up.
Did we?
Pike surveyed his memories; everything came back to him. Whoa, we did. Holy crap I actually … we … oh boy. Sensations ranging from guilt to excitement to fear hit Pike. I barley know Rachel and I did … that with her!
He felt different somehow. Since becoming a pikachu, Pike had been fighting an internal struggle between human reasoning and animal instinct. Last night, he'd let animal instinct win. In a way, it was a relief to him. In another way, he was afraid that he was now past the decisive point.
Pike was now fighting a different struggle. His human reasoning was ashamed by his actions. His animal instincts told him that although he'd just met Rachel, what they did was not wrong, they were animals and exempt from the human concepts of right and wrong. Giving into the animal side had appeared to make it stronger.
I'd been holding back for so long. I feared terrible things would happen if I let go even once. Now I know that isn't true; I'm free to be what I now am.
Pike still felt messy from previous day's activities. Before, he'd used baths to clean himself. I've been in denial. Sure a pikachu might play in the water but they don't bathe that way all of the time. He began licking him self off just as a normal pikachu would. The feeling of shame just wasn't there anymore.
Rachel stirred when Pike had almost finished. Pike didn't worry about her catching him. They knew each other on a far more intimate level now. Besides, such concerns are better left for humans.
"Good morning," Rachel said. Her tone was soothing. "How did you sleep?"
Pike stopped washing and looked at Rachel. "I … pretty good."
"So, what did you think of … letting go?" Rachel asked, inching closer to Pike and rubbing his belly.
"It was … nice; thank you for giving me that release. Before, I kept worrying that terrible things would happen if I gave in. I thought I was supposed to think of myself as a human in the body of a pikachu. I feel more comfortable knowing that although I'm a pikachu that doesn't mean I'm Not Pike anymore. However, I need to stop letting human inhibitions hold me down. I need to get on with my life. It's strange, I don't feel that different; just more focused." Pike said.
"I'm glad I helped you embrace you pikachu side, It offers you much. This is just the beginning."
"So, what happens now?" Pike asked.
"That's up to you. I started embracing being a furret after my … experience. Once I let go it was much easier to enjoy life. I can help you on your journey if you'd like."
"I … maybe. By the way, where is Amper? As far as I know, she's with Mark. I want to tell her that I can now be a proper mate for her," Pike asked.
"After last night, you fell asleep pretty quickly. Amper decided to spend the night with Mark. Would you like to go for a walk with Amper and Mark? I'm sure they'd love to get some breakfast." Rachel said with a giggle.
I wonder where her husband, no that term doesn't seem right for them. He's not really her mate ... yet. I'm not sure what term to use. Now that I know it's okay for them to have multiple mates, I guess it's okay.
"So, where is Cal anyway? You've mentioned him a few times," Pike asked.
"Cal is away until tomorrow. He's a manager at a local software company, H-Vey Software. Have you heard of them?"
"I think so. Somehow though, software just doesn't seem as interesting anymore. I may be a smart pikachu, but computers are for humans," Pike said. Did I just say that?
Rachel nodded. "Yeah, I usually let him worry about that sort of stuff now."
"I've been using the computer but less often lately. When I used it, I felt like I in denial. Now, I know I was. A computer is more of a fun treat for me now," Pike said.
"It'll take time Pike. Now, why don't we go see if Amper and Mark are up? I'm sure your mate will be happy to know you're now ready to be a true pikachu," Rachel said.
"One question. Who makes the meals when Cal isn't around? Can you cook?" Pike asked.
"We have assistants to help us. Ivan is a great cook. I think I'll give him the day off and we can go to a restaurant. We don't normally go in them but as a treat it's fine," Rachel said.
Pike nodded. "Sounds good."
Jumping off the bed, Pike stretched. I hope Amper understands. I'm still Pike. We can still read about pokémon. I don't know if I need to teach her about other stuff.
Before the experience with Rachel, Pike was fighting an internal battle. He'd be teaching Amper about human things in order to keep the human part of his mind active. Now, he felt that he didn't need to worry about it. He was a pikachu now. He could still be smart and he still remembered who he was. However, he was starting to feel that believing he to be a pikachu didn't mean he had to stop being pike.
It could have taken me months or even years to figure this out. Rachel has saved me that trouble.
Rachel climbed off the bed and led Pike to Mark's room. Mark was asleep with Amper to his right. Pike jumped on the bed, walked over to Amper and nuzzled her. He watched as Amper's eyes slowly opened and she looked at him.
"Hey, where were you last night?" Amper asked.
"Sorry, Rachel was helping me. I feel much better now," Pike replied.
Pike stared grooming Amper's nape. Until now, he'd been nervous of doing that; it just didn't seem right. Now, however, it felt almost natural. She was his mate; there was no reason why he couldn't groom her. Amper cooed quietly while Pike continued. When he stopped a few minutes later, she stood up and looked him in the eyes.
"You never did that before. You said it wasn't right," Amper said.
"Rachel showed me that it's okay for me to relax. I don't have to let human inhibition hold me back any more," Pike said.
Amper cocked her head to the right. "You okay Pike?"
"I've given him clarity, showed him that it's all right to let go. Your mate now knows that he doesn't need to fear his instincts. Before, he felt that he needed to adhere to human standards. I've shown him the truth," Rachel said.
Mark stirred. Pike looked at Amper. "Let's talk in Rachel's room."
-
A few minutes later, Pike and Amper were together on Rachel's bed. Pike had told Amper about what he and Rachel had done.
Amper didn't understand why Pike had mated with Rachel. She didn't even think it was possible for their two species to mate. Pikachu could have multiple mates. Pike had seemed interested in her. Amper was wondering why Pike wasn't asking her.
"Why did you mate with her?" Amper asked.
"All this time, I've been fighting the feelings this form have given me. I've so badly wanted to let go and just play. I've wanted to be a mate for you. Last night, Rachel showed me that it was all right to let go. She knew what I've been going though," Pike said.
"If you wanted to mate with me then why'd you mate with her?" Amper asked.
"Because you're a natural pikachu. I don't know; it just seemed wrong. Rachel used to be human like me so it seemed more acceptable. I … I love you Amper. I've wanted to mate with you for some time now. However, it just seemed wrong."
"Why is it wrong? I feel bonded with you Pike. I know what mating means," Amper asked.
"Sometimes humans mate because they like each other rather then to have babies," Pike said.
"Why can't we do that? How come its wrong because I was born a pikachu?" Amper asked.
"Because … I don't know. I thought you didn't know better and I'd be taking advantage of you. Rachel knew better. I don't know, maybe I shouldn't have done that with her." Pike hung his head.
"You've shown me better Pike! She's being mean to you. She wants you to give up on your humanity as she has! I like you because you're different. I don't want you to be like the others. You've been showing me I can be more. I like it when we play! Why can't I show you mating as a pikachu? You've taught me that we can enjoy it because we're bonded!" Amper said.
"Amper, I want to. After doing that with Rachel I feel like it's okay for me to do that now. I still need to accept that I'm a pikachu. I can't think of myself as a human in the body of one anymore," Pike said.
"Why not?" Amper asked.
Pike began pacing back and forth on the bed. "I don't know. I have these urges. I've been ignoring them for the most part. Humans have urges as well but as a human, I had ignored most of them. I feel like I'm going to go insane if I keep holding them back. Maybe it'd just be easier if I just accepted that I'm a pikachu and started acting like one."
"But, maybe if you give into some of them you can be okay? You liked grooming me, I liked it. Maybe if you enjoy some of your instincts then you can still be Pike?" Amper asked.
"I … maybe," Pike replied.
Amper watched as Pike continued to pace back and forth. "It's still hard. For example, I normally took baths to clean myself. Now I feel like I can wash like you guys do and it's okay."
"It's okay Pike. Our urges are normal. Giving into them isn't wrong," Amper said.
"Then maybe later, we can … I can show you how much I've grown to love you," Pike said.
"Sure," Amper said.
Pike walked over to Amper and kissed her on the cheek. Amper remembered what Pike called this. They'd done it plenty of times before. It was a nice feeling. Amper drew Pike in and both hugged.
"I'm sorry Amper. I hope you can forgive me," Pike said.
Although Amper wished Pike had asked her, If anything, she was upset with Rachel. Amper now knew why Pike was holding back despite the fact that he didn't want to. Rachel seemed to be using Pike, wanting him to give up on his humanity. Amper didn't understand why Rachel was doing this. She was encouraging Pike to mate with her right away.
"You were trying not to be mean to me. She just wanted you to be like her," Amper said.
"She meant well. She just wanted to help me," Pike said.
-
Rachel was standing outside her door. Having heard most of the conversation, she bolted into the room and jumped onto the bed.
"Amper! I didn't do what I did to be mean to you!"
Pike looked at Amper and then at Rachel.
Oh boy, I don't need this.
"Then why did you make Pike mate with you? He likes me but he was afraid to mate with me. I explained to him that he doesn't need to be!" Amper said.
"Pike, you're still telling Amper to think like a human! She isn't human and you're not human any more. We can have multiple mates. You didn't do anything wrong Pike. You were just following your instincts!" Rachel said.
"No I … I shouldn't have. We just met," Pike said.
"So?" Rachel asked.
"It isn't right. I needed a release but I should have found some other way," Pike said.
"You're thinking like a human again! As long as you hold onto their values, you're not going to be happy," Rachel said.
"Why is she saying that Pike?" Amper asked.
I know Rachel just wants to help me but I don't want to disappoint Amper.
"You don't want to learn about human things Amper. Just stay a pikachu; you're better off. Pike, I think we need another go. I will help you to let go of those values," Rachel said.
I can't do that again.
"Hey guys, are you ready yet?" Mark asked.
"Maybe we should talk about this after breakfast?" Pike asked.
Rachel nodded. She grabbed Pike's tail as he was about to leap off the bed. It took some resistance for Pike not to shock her out of instinct.
"Perhaps Pike, now you understand why I want … no need to change Cal. I don't have anyone else as you do. Once Cal is a furret, I won't have to bother you any more. Then, Amper can have you all to herself."
Rachel let go of Pike and she leaped off the bed and left the room.
"Pike," Amper said. Pike turned around and faced Amper. "Did you do that with Rachel to be nice to her?"
"I … maybe," Pike replied.
"You wanted to teach me human stuff to be nice to me," Amper said.
Pike nodded.
"Before I met you, I didn't know about things like right and wrong. You taught me to think beyond what my instincts tell me. That's what I like about you Pike. You taught me not to take food from storage because others have to work hard to get it for us. You taught me not to take food from people's plates because it's rude. I didn't know what rude was before I met you," Amper said.
"I know but part of the reason I taught you those things was so I didn't forget them. But I also wanted you to learn."
"And last night you mated with Rachel to be nice to her and help her?" Amper asked.
Pike nodded. "I guess I did. She wanted to help me too," Pike said.
"Did it help you?" Amper asked.
"I think it did. I was afraid to do that as a pikachu. Now that I have, I know that it's okay. It's like, doing that released a weight from my shoulders," Pike replied.
"Do humans like to do that?" Amper asked.
"Yes," Pike answered with perhaps a little too much enthusiasm. "Last night with Rachel was … my first time."
"That's different?" Amper asked.
Pike nodded. "The first time is supposed to be special. I never thought that for me it would be as a pikachu with a furret that used to be a mayor."
Amper looked into Pike's eyes. "Pike, I've never done that before either."
Pike's ears perked. "You mean, when we … it'll be your first time?"
Amper nodded.
Pike kissed Amper. "Next time, I'll get it right. I'll make your first time special."
Mark walked into the room. Pike jumped and felt the blood rushing to his cheeks.
I hope he didn't hear any of that.
"Are you two ready?" Mark asked.
"Um Mark, did you hear anything we said?" Pike asked.
"No. But if you don't want me to know what you're saying, why not speak in pikachu?" Mark asked.
The kid has a good point. Heh, it would be like knowing a secret code. But, if I speak in pikachu then I might lose myself even more.
"Maybe when Amper and I have a private discussion," Pike replied.
Mark giggled. "Come on, let's go get breakfast."
---
Mark walked down the street with Pike and Amper on his shoulders and Rachel walking to his left. Pike and Rachel were speaking in their species native language to avoid any suspicion. Having taken the time to learn how to speak English in his current form, having to speak in pikachu annoyed Pike. However, he knew it was necessary if he wanted to avoid detection.
The group walked through a strip mall where various people were milling about. Some looked at Mark while others ignored him.
Pike felt odd being among humans. He was of two minds. One side of him was jealous that they were able to continue with their lives without an apparent care in the world. Another side of him was amused with his lack of clothing. Since his experience with Rachel the previous night, he felt looser and less connected to human rules. He'd violated one major inhibition. Being naked in public just didn't feel as embarrassing or wrong anymore. He didn't even have his baseball cap on anymore.
"You sure it'll be okay for us to go there?" Pike asked.
"Yes, Norman's diner. He's open about letting pokémon eat there. He makes great omelettes," Rachel said.
"Omelettes? Sounds good," Pike said.
"Just let Mark do the talking. They might not react well to a talking pikachu and furret. So Rachel, how come you don't come out and tell everyone who you are?" Pike said.
"Humans tend to react poorly to those that are different. They won't see us as pokémon or human. It's just not worth the risk." Rachel replied.
It feels rude doing this. Mark can't understand us.
"Why would anyone try to hurt you? Maybe people would want to know what it's like for you. They might be willing to follow you," Pike said.
"Ah to be young again," Rachel said.
"Huh?" Pike said.
"How old are you Pike?" Rachel asked.
"Twenty four," Pike replied.
"I remember when I was your age. Things were a lot less complicated. Mark, Cal and the few others that know about me, I trust. Most humans however Pike are mistrusting. They might even try to attack me just because of what I am. Perhaps if the others experience what we have experienced then I could tell the world the truth," Rachel replied.
Why do people have to be so mean? I'm still smart; I can still do stuff. Just because we look a little different shouldn't limit us.
"If we told them how it's been for us, they might begin to understand," Pike said.
"They just might Pike. However, I'm unwilling to risk Mark or Cal's safety," Rachel said.
"Humans aren't so bad. They have a whole civilisation. It seems so interesting. I want to learn about it," Amper said.
"The only way they will understand us is if they experience what we've experienced," Rachel said.
Does she mean what I think she means?
"The only way we can do that is to get others to swim in that lake. I don't know if anyone would be willing, besides Mark and Cal that is," Pike said.
"I may have ways of convincing people," Rachel said.
"But, then you'd have to tell the world the truth about you," Pike said.
"Once others have experienced this, it will be less dangerous for me and for you. Neither of us will have to be alone any more. Don't worry about that Pike. Let's just enjoy breakfast and what is looking to be a beautiful day," Rachel said.
Is she planning on do this to others against their will? I know she thinks the human world is scary yet she does seem to trust at least some people. Maybe she's talking about Mark and Cal. Maybe when they do change; it'll be safer for us to come out. I just hope she doesn't talk them into it if they don't really want it.
Pike nodded his head.
"What are you guys talking about?" Mark asked.
"Don't worry honey, it's nothing for you to worry about," Rachel replied.
"We're almost there," Mark said.
Pike could smell the food from the dinner. The scent made him even hungrier. Pokechow was good but human food was special. With his pikachu side stronger, Pike found the desire to satisfy his hunger more overpowering then it had been when he was human.
"I feel a little guilty," Pike said.
"About what?" Rachel asked.
"People treating me so much. I'm not sure what I've done to deserve it," Pike replied.
"Being so adorable is enough Pike," Rachel said.
"You are cute Pike," Amper said.
Oh man, two females telling me I'm cute. I'd have to be crazy not to like this.
Pike could feel the blood rushing to his cheeks. "Oh, you guys don't have to be so nice to me," Pike said.
"You want to be nice to us Pike," Amper said.
"Seems only fair we return the favour," Rachel added.
Mark opened the front door the diner and Rachel walked in. Walking in, Mark approached the podium where a waitress was standing. The diner was moderately crowded with people off all ages eating breakfast. Pike felt a little nervous; this was his first time among strange humans in a while.
"Good morning son. Is this just for you and your friends or are your parents coming?" the waitress asked.
If only she knew.
"It's just my friends and I," Mark answered, looking at Pike and winking at having used correct grammar.
Good for you Mark, you said it correctly. Grammar may not matter as much for me, but it does to you.
The waitress smiled and nodded before picking up a few menus. "Right this way."
-
The waitress seated the group at a booth. Pike sat with Amper on one side and Rachel sat with Mark on the other. The waitress had provided two menus for the group, one for Pike and Amper and one for Rachel and Mark.
"Hey, there's more words on this thing. What do they say?" Amper said.
"You don't need to worry about the words, the pictures are what matter," Rachel said.
Pike pointed to a picture of an egg and then to the menu entry for eggs. Amper nodded. Looking at Rachel, Pike wondered if she could even read any more. First, she was telling them not to speak English out of fear that someone would discover them. Now, she seemed to have abandoned reading.
When the waitress arrived at the table, she smiled at both Pike and Amper. She even gave Pike a short chin rub, which he enjoyed immensely. She then did the same for Amper and Rachel.
Amper ordered scrambled eggs using a combination of pointing at the menu and nodding her head for yes or shaking it for no when the waitress asked. She also got orange juice to drink.
Pike badly wanted to speak to order, even as he was about to, he looked at Rachel, who shook her head at him. Using the same methods Amper used, Pike and Rachel both ordered eggs, bacon and coffee.
Mark ordered cereal and waffles with milk to drink.
When the food came, Amper kept looking at Pike's coffee.
"Is it good?" she asked.
"Yes, it helps wake me up," Pike answered.
Pike seemed to enjoy that fact that coffee made him energetic. Amper didn't quite understand that. She knew of some plants that would make her feel good and make her see things that weren't there. Or was it seeing things that are there but we normally can't see? I can't remember which. Amper wasn't sure she wanted to try those. Pike had told her that such plants were bad for her and that she shouldn't eat them.
Amper was ready to eat with her paws when Pike pointed to the utensils. "When in public, we should always use those thing. Even in private we should."
"Why?" Amper asked.
"Because it's polite," Pike said.
"That's a human term Pike. Don't worry about being polite anymore," Rachel said.
Indeed, Rachel had made a good point. However, Pike knew that he had to be strong for Amper's sake. She wanted to learn about humanity.
Before Pike could counter Rachel, she was eating her food with her paws. Pike felt hungry enough to do that but held back. Hoping to set an example, Pike ate with his utensils. It wasn't easy but he managed. Over the past weeks, he'd been eating mostly Pokechow so eating human food was a positive change. Pike wanted to experience it as best as he could.
Pike smiled when he saw Amper attempt to do the same. Rachel looked at the duo. To Pike's relief, she didn't say anything.
---
After breakfast, the group walked away from the diner on a trail that led behind it, into the woods and along a path that would eventually come back to Rachel's house.
Although she wasn't about to tell Rachel, Amper trusted Pike. Even after last night, she still trusted him. Pike had just wanted to help Rachel and to make her happy. Amper didn't totally understand Pike's thinking that it was wrong to mate with her just because she was always a pikachu. However, she was starting to understand human terms such as right and wrong.
Pike and Rachel were now walking along side Mark with Rachel. As the trail was mostly devoid of other humans, Pike felt free to speak in English. Rachel however was still speaking in furret.
"That was great, thank you guys," Pike said.
"You're welcome," Mark and Rachel said simultaneously.
Pike had been teaching me to use that word.
"Yes, thank you," Amper said.
There was some shade from the trees as the group entered the woods. It made things cooler. Since the day was already getting warm, Amper welcomed the shade.
She lay under the trees and relaxed. Rachel approached her a few moments later with Pike at her side.
"So Amper, what did you think of eating with those human tools?" Rachel asked.
"It was," Amper started, looking at Pike. "Polite."
Pike smiled and nodded. "Being polite is good."
"But unnecessary for us," Rachel said, shaking her head so Mark would understand her.
"What do you mean?" Mark asked as he walked over to the trio and sat down.
"We shouldn't concern ourselves with human worries. Once Mark joins us, he won't have to either."
Mark appeared confused. Amper knew that he couldn't understand Rachel.
"I dunno," Pike said.
"Don't worry Pike, it'll be easier for us all soon," Rachel said.
"What do you mean? What are you going to do?" Pike asked.
"It's nothing you need to concern yourself with. Just enjoy your life with Amper. Let me worry about the details."
"Mom, what's going on? How come you're not speaking in English?" Mark asked.
Rachel looked at Mark then at Pike. "We should shouldn't speak in their language anywhere outside. Someone might catch us. The humans won't understand our situation for the moment."
Pike looked at Mark. "She doesn't want someone to catch us."
"If we go to that pond and I become a furret like Mom or a pikachu like you, then I'll understand," Mark said.
Before Pike could respond, Amper's ears perked at the sound of tires screeching. What was that? Seconds later, Amper heard the sound of screams and something smashing.
Bolting up, Amper looked at Pike, who was now standing as well.
"That sounded like a car crash. Come on, we should do something!" Pike said.
"I barley heard anything," Mark said. Pike pointed to his ears. "Oh yeah. Well, someone call the police or fire department!" Mark suggested.
Amper still wasn't sure exactly what those were. She wondered if they were like fire types. If there was a fire, Amper knew a fire type could help people.
"Maybe we can help the people, come on!" Pike said as he took off in the direction of the sound.
-
I have to help in any way I can. I don't care if I'm just a pikachu.
Pike was unsure if these were pikachu or human thoughts. People told stories of Ninetails running into burning buildings. Was something electrical involved? The former human realised that he didn't much care which side of him was pushing him to help the people in need. He could contemplate that later.
Bolting through the woods, the foliage under Pike and beside him rustled as he ran. While he could barley see where he was going because of the brush, he didn't care. If people needed his help, Pike had to do something.
Minutes later, Pike came to a frightening sight. Before him, a car had smashed into a hydro pole. Several power lines had fallen onto the car, trapping its four occupants inside. Two children were among them.
Must be a family.
Another car had its rear end smashed in. Three people were standing outside of it looking in horror at the other car.
"Someone do something!" a bystander yelled.
"We can't touch the car, we'll get electrocuted!" another replied.
But I can do something!
Amper appeared beside Pike a few moments later. "What's happening?" she asked.
Okay, speak in pikachu so the humans don't know the truth.
"See those things on the car? We need to get them off of it so the people can get out!" Pike replied.
Looking at the scene before him, Pike felt his heart-rate increase as beads of sweat formed on his face. He knew that if he failed, those four innocent people could die. It was all riding on Amper and he. I can do this. My body can take the electricity. Those people need me.
Pike ran towards the car as fast as he could with Amper in close pursuit. He jumped onto the hood and felt the electricity coursing through the car's frame. He then leapt onto the roof where he saw four power lines sparking. He heard something under the car's engine. Looking back, he saw flames and smoke begin flying from the engine.
Shit, that's the last thing I need!
"We don't have time, hurry!" Pike yelled.
He grabbed the first one in his mouth; it had a bitter taste. Carrying the power line as best as he could, Pike could feel the electricity in it pouring into his body, it felt good, but he knew that it would be deadly to the humans. He saw Amper carrying another.
Pike saw several humans standing by, watching him.
Oh screw it.
Dropping the power line onto the ground, Pike stood on his hind legs. "Stand back, the electricity is deadly to you!" he yelled in English.
"He can speak?" A boy said.
"But that's impossible!" a young woman said.
"Better do as he says, if he can speak then he's smart!" the same boy from before said.
As the humans cleared a path, Pike dragged the power line away from the car and released it, resting it on the pavement. He saw Amper doing the same thing. Pike took a deep breath and wiped his brow. Just two more to go.
He turned around and saw that the fire was growing larger. We don't have much time. Oh, what I wouldn't give for a water type about now.
"Just two more," Pike said.
He and Amper jumped onto the trunk of the car as the engine was now on fire. They coughed from the smoke that was now billowing and stinging their eyes. The flames were hot and made Pike and Amper sweat. The occupants of the car were banging on the windows. Pike's heart rate increased even more.
No, I won't give up. I will save these people.
"Don't worry, I'll get you out of there!" Pike yelled.
Jumping onto the roof, Pike grabbed the third power line and Amper the forth. Using all of his strength, he dragged it away from the car as Amper followed. When they'd put the last two on the ground a safe distance away, they turned to hear someone opening a door.
Pike beamed when he saw Rachel was now there. Mark was standing across the street. Rachel was helping one of the kids out of the car while his parents helped the other.
As Rachel assisted the boy to the side of the street beside Mark, Pike and Amper ran to his side. The boy smiled, hugged Rachel and looked at Pike. "You guys saved our lives. But how did you talk?"
The boy's sister and parents joined the group seconds later, with the sister picking up Pike and hugging him and the parents petting Amper.
By now, the car was on fire. Pike was relieved when he heard fire trucks were getting closer. In speaking, Pike had opened a Pandora's box. The question remained as to what would happen next.
"It's a long story," Pike said.
---
Henry watched the TV later that evening. Pike and Amper had returned home and were watching the news with Henry. Pike was again, wearing his baseball cap. He'd kept what had happened with Rachel between he and Amper as not to alarm Henry.
"In MapleBrook this morning, a heroic group of pokémon, two pikachu and a furret saved a family trapped in their car after a collision," the reporter started.
"MapleBrook? Isn't that interesting; did you hear anything about that Pike?" Henry asked.
"You could say that," Pike replied.
"Even more fascinating is that one of the pikachu, a male could apparently speak," the reporter announced.
Henry looked right at Pike. "Um, Pike, is there something you're not telling me?"
"Well," Pike said, standing on his hind legs and putting his hands behind his back. If only you knew the real news that I'm not telling you.
The newscast showed the same reporter talking to Pike. The family Pike, Amper and Rachel had saved were standing behind them with the exception of the boy Rachel had helped; he was holding Pike.
"So, how is you're able to speak?" the reporter asked
Pike looked at Henry, who appeared panicked. Don't worry, I didn't tell them the truth.
"I saw humans doing it and wanted to try myself. Mark here helped me to learn to speak. He's been great," Pike replied as Mark walked onto the screen.
"You realise what you've done don't you?" Henry asked.
"He's always seemed interested in learning about human things. He's even learning to read," Mark said on the TV.
"See, I didn't tell them the truth," Pike said.
As the report continued, Henry paid more attention to Pike.
"Still, you took a big risk talking around other people. What if someone tried to hurt you?" Henry asked.
"It was worth it to save those people," Pike answered.
"They said we're heroes," Amper said.
"She said that they said we're heroes," Pike said.
"I … you … you are heroes Pike," Henry said.
Henry finally picked Pike up and hugged him. "You did the right thing in helping those people. How does it feel?"
"It feels … wonderful. They might have died if we hadn't of been there. I don't know, maybe being a pikachu is worth it if it means I can help people. Rachel told me that there are things I can do as a pikachu that I'd never be able to do as a human, that was just one of them. Maybe she's right," Pike said.
Henry put Pike back down on the couch. "So, what are you saying? You want to give up on ever being human again?"
"We're were able to save those people because of what we are. Besides, I can be a much better companion to Amper this way. I wouldn't want to change back if I couldn't make her human as well," Pike said.
"I don't know Pike, maybe you should think this through," Henry said.
The telephone rang, interrupting their discussion. Henry answered it.
"Hello," Henry said.
"Did you mean that Pike?" Amper asked.
Pike nodded, "I can't imagine not having you with me." Looking at Henry, Pike decided to speak in the pikachu language for privacy.
"Yes, that was Pike. I know, I can't believe it either," Henry said.
"Being this way feels good. Being with you feels even better. You've made this worth it," Pike said.
"He knows it was dangerous, he thinks it's worth the risk," Henry said.
Pike could hear that it was his mother on the line. Thanks to his pikachu hearing, he could hear everything she said.
"If the world sees that some of us are smart enough to talk and want to read then people everywhere will be nicer to us," Pike said.
"I'm sure he knows to be careful," Henry said.
"Us?" Amper asked.
"The pikachu and pokémon in general," Pike replied.
Pike had to tell Amper the truth as to how he now felt. Perhaps he was neither a pikachu with human intelligence and memories nor a human in the body of a pikachu. In a sense, he was both.
"I understand how humans think and how pikachu think. I can help both people and pokémon to understand. I can make things better for us all," Pike said.
"How?" Amper said.
"I'm not sure but somehow I will find out. First," Pike said. He inched closer to Amper and took in her scent. It was sweet and appealing to him. "There are things I'd like to experience."
"Don't worry, I'll make sure he doesn't take it too far," Henry said.
"I think I'm ready to experience what happened last night the proper way," Pike said.
"Okay then, I'll talk to you later," Henry said. He hung up the telephone and looked at Pike and Amper. "That was your mother Pike. She loves how you helped those people but is worried that speaking in public is dangerous. Maybe you should keep a low profile from now on okay? By the way, why weren't you speaking in English there?"
Pike stepped away from Amper. He was feeling a little flushed. Right now, pleasing Amper was paramount. He knew how this felt as a human. Now, it was a little stronger but still more or less the same feeling.
"You okay Pike?" Henry asked.
"Yes, I … we were having a private discussion," Pike answered.
Looking back into Amper's eyes, Pike saw a look that only furthered his excitement. She was ready for him. In fact, she'd probably been ready for a long time. He was going to be her first. He wished he saved himself for her. Unfortunately, he could do little about it. It was time to get it right.
"About what?" Henry asked.
"Um…"
"Oh boy, I know that look. If you two want to, you know ... I'm not going to stop you. Are you sure that's what you want?" Henry asked.
Pike was feeling almost crazy now. Yes, it was what he wanted. He could tell it was what Amper wanted as well.
"Yes," Pike said.
Without another word, Pike jumped off the couch, looked at Amper and ran towards his room. This time, he was going to get it right. This was going to be special. He would show Amper, not only what her animal instincts wanted, but he'd make sure to add in the human emotional aspects of it as well. It was time to right a wrong.
Henry, watching the two good, shook his head. "Godspeed Pike."
---
Late in the evening, Rachel stood in front of the spring with Samuel, the same middle aged man that had told her about Pike. The moonlight reflected in the water. Owls cooed in the trees and a breeze blew through the woods. The evening was cool and a mist floated near the surface of the water.
Rachel was carrying a satchel. This was unusual for her by this point but she needed it to prove her point. She no longer wore any of her other garments.
"Why did you want me to take you here Mrs. Johnstone?" Samuel asked.
"Please, just call me Rachel. We need to learn to put titles behind us," Rachel replied.
"I don't understand," Samuel said.
"I've made a discovery. Actually, I made it some time ago but I've been reluctant to tell anyone. Pike exposing his ability to speak has made things … difficult. I'm afraid that I may no longer be able to hide my gift," Rachel said
"What have you discovered?" Samuel asked.
"How the spring works. Its abilities peak every full moon. If you enter it at the same time as a pokémon at that time, you will become that species. However, if you drink the water in spring, at any time, you will become a member of the last species to enter it. If multiple species were in it at the same time, it appears that it's random which one you become."
"How did you discover this?" Samuel asked.
"There are legends. I also found a journal that appears to confirm my suspicions," Rachel replied.
She opened the satchel and motioned Samuel to reach into it. The man pulled out a worn looking book. If his hair wasn't already grey, he had a feeling it soon would be.
"Go ahead and read it. It shows a young woman who discovered a new form. She's still somewhere in these woods," Rachel said.
"When d…did you find this?" Samuel asked.
"Two weeks ago I was exploring around here. I discovered it in a cave nearby. I read it, although I dislike reading now. However, it was worth it this time."
Samuel began to read the journal.
Personal journal of Eva Hargrove, Day 1: I've heard rumours of a magic spring in these parts of the woods. On every full moon, if a human were to bathe in it with a pokémon, they would become a pokémon of the same species as the one they bathed with. I have no idea if these legends are true or not. I'm here to test that theory.
Personal journal of Eva Hargrove, Day 3: The day is here, the first night of a full moon. This afternoon, I will make my way to the spring and bait a wild pokémon into entering it with me. I admit that I feel nervous over what I'm about to do however the idea of exploring a new form is too fascinating to turn down.
Personal journal of Eva Hargrove, Day 4: It's incredible … it worked. I coaxed a pikachu into entering the spring with me. It didn't work at first, however he appeared to use an electric move, which initiated the change. This is incredible … it changed me into a pikachu. My God, I really am an animal! Everything feels so different yet similar. I wandered the woods for some time, completely naked as nature intended.
The only scary thing is I can't speak; I can only say pikachu words. I must explore this form, learn what there is to know about this species
Personal journal of Eva Hargrove, Day 5: Still can't believe I'm really a pikachu, seems impossible yet I have the fur, I'm so tiny and I can't speak. So much to do and explore. I don't worry that I can't speak. I don't need to. My needs are so simple like this. I feel so much more peaceful. Should I stay this way?
Personal journal of Eva Hargrove, Day 6: Clothing … it's so pointless. I feel free without it. Why couldn't I have found this place sooner? I find I get distracted easy by things now. Am I thinking like a kid again? Do I want to change back and have to go back to work? I starting to understand the pikachu now, not sure I can give that up.
Samuel felt his heart rate increase. Rachel and Pike weren't the only ones this had happened to. Wondering what became of Eva, Samuel continued to read.
Personal journal of Eva Hargrove, Day 10: Been days since I wrote … sorry. Been exploring the woods. Met some people, they petted and gave me tasty food. Everything feels so magical and cool! Bathrooms, who needs em when I have a bush? Why do humans worry so much about scratching or doing other normal stuff around each other? We all need to do stuff so why think we're the only ones that do it? Food everywhere to take! Why do people worry about money for it?
Personal journal of Eva Hargrove, Day 15: I don't wana go back to work! This is so much more fun! I can shock anyone that tries anything stupid and I can do whatever I want here. I know my spelling is bad but so? Spelling is stupid human rules!
Samuel was getting nervous. Eva's grammar and spelling were deteriorating and she seemed to be embracing behaving as a pikachu rather then as a human and enjoying it! Why wasn't she trying to change back or find others to share her experiences with? Samuel read on. He noticed there appeared to be bits chewed out of the next few pages. He didn't need time to realise that Eva had done it.
There were more entries, although the writing was becoming increasingly erratic and the prose was poor at best. It was as though either she'd forgotten how to write or that she wasn't interested in conveying anything beyond basic meanings. Eva had mixed pictures within the writing. One was a crude drawing of two pikachu with an arrow pointing to one and the word 'me' scrawled beside the arrow. She's scrawled the word boy another arrow pointing to the second pikachu.
Stuff I did by Pichka. Can't say human name so me Pichka! Been … long time! Found boy! He cute and smell nice! We played!
After that, there were no more words. Eva had only drawn pictures that grew increasingly crude until they were mere scribbles.
"My God," Samuel said with a hushed voice.
"I know, she finally let go of her humanity. Perhaps soon Mark, Cal and I can do that. I brought you here this evening because I want you to give you a preview," Rachel said.
"What do you mean?" Samuel asked.
"Swim with me Sam. Shed your humanity for something far better."
Samuel took a few steps backwards. "I c...can't do that."
For a second, Rachel's eyes seemed to glow. Samuel felt strange. His resistance to Rachel's idea decreased.
"Just try it out Sam. We can always reverse it if you don't like it. When was the last time you played enough to let go and just enjoy life?" Rachel asked.
"I … I can't remember," Samuel replied.
Rachel moved closer to Samuel, stood her on hind legs and ran her right paw down Samuel's left cheek.
"Then it's been too long," Rachel said.
"I…"
Rachel ran her paw down Samuel's cheek some more. "Have you ever known me to be anything but trustworthy? I wouldn't be asking you to try this unless I knew you'd be all right."
Samuel knew that Rachel wouldn't mislead him. When she was mayor, she helped pay for his Niece and Nephew's college education. Rachel had also donated to several charities to help pokémon without homes. If anything, Rachel just wanted to help people. Samuel couldn't see how Rachel would do something harmful to him.
Logic told Samuel to run. However, something was holding him back. It was as though he just couldn't bring himself to mistrust Rachel.
"I suppose I could give it a try," Samuel said.
"Great!" Rachel said.
She strolled into the water while Samuel watched. Turning around, she looked at him.
"Come on in Sam, the water's fine."
"You say you can reverse this if I don't like it?" Samuel asked.
Rachel nodded. "Of course. However, I doubt you'll want to do that."
Samuel nodded. He removed his suit jacket, shoes and socks before putting them neatly on the ground beside him. Standing up, he wasn't sure he wanted to remove anything else. One couldn't be naked in public, it just wasn't right.
"Don't be shy Sam. Once we're finished you won't need to worry about suits and ties any more," Rachel said.
Samuel nodded and removed his slacks, shirt and tie, again folding them neatly above his jacket. Now standing in his boxers, he felt a chill as a breeze blew.
"Almost ready," Rachel said with a giggle.
Samuel nodded and took a deep before removing his boxers and folding them on the ground.
"Now, that wasn't so hard, was it?" Rachel asked.
"This isn't right. What if someone catches us?" Samuel asked.
"Once we're finished, they'll just see two furrets taking a swim. No harm in that is there?" Rachel asked.
"I guess not," Samuel said.
Taking small steps, Samuel advanced towards the spring. He felt the warmth from it. His heart rate quickened. He knew he was insane for trying this. However, Rachel was someone he trusted. If she said she was better off this way then she must have been right somehow for, she had little (if anything) to gain by lying.
Samuel's feet touched the warm water. He walked past Rachel until the water was halfway up his chest. He turned and looked back at Rachel.
"You're really going to do this?" He asked.
Rachel's eyes glowed again. Samuel felt a tingle run through his body. This was it; it was going to happen for real! He wasn't sure if he should be afraid or look forward to it. He'd wondered what it was like for Rachel, now he was going to find out!
He felt an itch on his chest. Looking down, he saw the greying hair down there appear to revert to its natural brown colour before lightening into beige. The hair seemed to move by itself as it thickened with new hairs growing in at an alarming rate.
Samuel looked up at Rachel even as he felt the hair increasing in density.
"Um, is this right?" Samuel asked.
Rachel smiled, "of course it is! I'd say it's working perfectly!"
Looking back down, Samuel saw that a ring of brown fur was down developing midway down his chest. By now, he could see little skin.
His arms and legs began to ache. He looked at Rachel, knowing her arms were indeed short relative to the size of her body. He held his hands in front of him and watched as brown fur sprouted all over them as his arms became covered in beige fur and grew increasingly shorter.
Taking several steps forward, Samuel's entire body began to tingle.
"This is the hard part, don't worry, it won't last long," Rachel said.
Hard indeed! Samuel cringed before closing his eyes as he felt pressure all over his body. He realised that a furret's body was much rounder then a human and their torso was almost one long shape.
His legs ached like heck, he could feel them becoming short and stubby. He took as many steps forward as he could, the water splashing all around him. He started falling forward only for Rachel to catch him.
"Don't worry, you're coming along nicely, just hang in there," Rachel said.
Samuel nodded. The pressure filled his neck and rear end. Something seemed to grow behind him; he felt it inching its way through the water with splashes and ripples. If anything, at least his sense of balance seemed to return. No longer was he too heavy in the front. He definitely felt something behind his now stubby legs.
The pain subsided and Samuel opened his eyes. He discovered that he was now eye level with Rachel.
"Just about done," Rachel said.
Samuel couldn't feel around his body with these now stubby arms of his. Rachel did it for him. She ran her hands down his neck allowing him to realise that it was now not just furry but as thick as his torso, which restricted his head's movement.
Next, his head and face began to sting. Again, Samuel closed his eyes. He felt his face reshaping as something pulled its way out from atop his head. His jaw felt different and for a short few seconds, he couldn't hear anything at all! Then, the sounds returned. This time however, they were far more detailed and louder then Samuel remembered them having ever been. He couldn't remember hearing this well even when he was younger!
The pain again faded away. Samuel felt different this time, complete somehow. He opened his eyes to see Rachel looking into them.
"Am I?" Samuel asked.
"Yes Sam, you are. Don't worry that you can't speak. Human languages aren't necessary for you any more. Soon, I will put them behind me," Rachel replied.
Samuel gasped when he realised that indeed, he wasn't speaking English He and Rachel walked out of the lake, both dripping wet with water.
Rachel reached into the satchel and pulled out a mirror, placing it on the ground for Samuel. He walked over and looked at his reflection. His fur colour was a little darker then Rachel's. Where Rachel had two lines of brown on her face, Samuel had circles similar to those of a pikachu. His feet were also brown while Rachel's were beige.
"Wow, I really am a furret," Samuel said.
"Yes, ands a handsome one indeed. So, how do you feel?" Rachel asked.
"I feel … I'm not sure. It's hard to think. All these new thoughts, my hearing and everything feels different. I feel smaller, vulnerable. I..."
Samuel felt the urge to run and panic. Rachel touched the sides of his head.
"Don't worry, I'll guide you. I'll show you the way. Together, we can show the world what we've discovered. Eventually Pike will come around. The three of us will show humanity understanding and respect for pokémon."
"I...I don't know. Oh, I ... help me!" Samuel said.
Samuel was starting to wonder if this was such a good idea. The urge to panic was almost overwhelming. How was he supposed to control these feelings?
"Don't worry Sam, I will help you. Then we can help everyone."
Samuel looked into Rachel's eyes. She'd been this way for a year; she knew what she was talking about.
He nodded. "What do I need to do?" he asked.