Disclaimer: I do not own Pokémon. That right belongs to Nintendo, but at least I own this fanfic XD
A/N: I thank you for the reviews/feedback. Constructive criticism is more than welcome, but I hate flaming. We all do, right?
A/N: The Escape Arc (Prologue – Free At Last) is finally over! Since we're moving into the second and last arc of this installment, the chapters will be slightly longer. I also have more Ferriswheelshipping moments in store for you!
A/N: There's a poll currently up on my profile. The faster everyone votes, the faster I can insert White's father into the storyline. I don't want you all dwelling on this, because he will appear eventually.
A/N: By the way, I'm beginning to read the manga and I see Blue has a way different personality from Blue of Generation I, Generation II and their remakes. If Cavaliershipping wins, then Blue would be more like his manga counterpart, yet show episodes of sarcasm and impulsiveness.
A/N: If Pearlshipping wins, then Red would act like his manga counterpart (I've seen Manga Red make sarcastic remarks every now and then). But he would act impulsive as well.
A/N: I know N has a tendency to repeat himself, but that's how he is for now.
A/N: I made two mistakes: It should be the Shadow Triad, not the Shadow Trio. Plus, White and her mother share the same hair and eye color, which I totally forgot about, so the damage is done.
A/N: In a flashback, I'd changed White's and N's first encounter heavily. Another special addition to this chapter is that N will be the only one to narrate this chapter.
A/N: I couldn't resist this LOL:
ExaltedLight: White, do us all a favor and embrace your feelings!
White: What feelings?
ExaltedLight: Your romantic feelings for N!
White: Not you, too! I only like him as a friend.
ExaltedLight: Look, you were hysterical when he was knocked unconscious.
White: I would do the same for anybody I care about.
ExaltedLight: You didn't object to letting him ride on Reshiram.
White: I'm like his only friend, EL!
ExaltedLight: Okay, what about when you kissed him on the cheek?
White: . . . You have it all wrong.
ExaltedLight: I may not be N, but I am pretty sure Zekrom and Reshiram know you harbor romantic feelings for N – I could ask N to read their thoughts.
White: You wouldn't dare –
ExaltedLight: A Pokemon knowing their Trainer is in love with someone? How embarrassing is that? FYI, White Snow, I'm the authoress of your love story, so I can do whatever I want.
White: . . .
ExaltedLight: Adios!
A/N: Since I had my fun, let's move on to the next installment.
N's PoV.
I opened my eyes, feeling the breeze messing up my bushy hair.
Then, I noticed the crown of my head was propped up against something.
Before I could examine what it was, I heard a high soprano, silvery and musical voice speak:
"Are you fine with this?" It sounded worried.
Both White and I were moving up and down. I heard the sound of water being cut through, droplets soaring about wildly. Instantly, I knew we weren't on a boat, but on the back of a Pokemon.
Vividly, I pictured a Pokemon, a paler shade of white. Even though it was in flight, I envisioned it standing upright back in the throne room, bipedal in appearance, physically resembling a dragon and a mammal. To be frank, I couldn't decide if it was more mammalian than draconic, or the other way around.
With those large and majestic wings, I suppose I shouldn't be shocked that nothing but faint gusts of wind emitted from them, void of noise. I knew if I leaned forward, I would be staring at a snout, canine or vulpine in appearance, a big, immense and flimsy-looking mane protruding outward, corresponding with the windswept mane streaming from the crown of its head, spiked and adorned with some small crest. Spikes fringed the face, a rather pointed extension streaming from the chin.
I wondered why White wasn't grasping the lengthy, slight neck, sporting a feathery collar, held there by twin glassy bands, akin to the ones the Pokemon was sporting on its expansive forelimbs, wing-like appendages protruding from them. The upper limbs were slender, appearing to have humanoid arms, save they melted into appendages worthy of being called wings, just as feathery as the wings guiding us through the uncharted area, except they were edged with four simple claws.
Although the chest was soaring a couple of inches above the water, the underbelly had a sparkling pale feather fixed onto it, the bottom pointing outward, reminding me of a crescent moon. Several feathers extended from the thighs, the feet each having four claws – three in the front, one in the back positioned like a stiletto heel. I knew the tail was massive and extremely thick, with the center plumed, and ribbon-like extensions flowing outward, the tail encircled by two simple bands. The tail reminded me of a jet engine.
I knew promptly White was riding on Reshiram. Reshiram seems more feminine whilst Zekrom appears masculine, I mused, knowing it couldn't possibly be true.
Reshiram roared with agreement at White's words, nodding its head vigorously. I find it unfair I wasn't born with telepathy, Reshiram thought sadly, because I want nothing more than to tell White I love her. Why wouldn't I? She's a good person. Reshiram released a melancholy growl. I can see why Samurott, Tornadus, Simisear, Zebstrika, Beartic, Volcarona, Sawsbuck, Chandelure, Audino, Haxorus, Gothitelle, Stoutland and Cobalion all care for her. But why won't she look into her heart? I'm more than willing to put up with Zekrom if it means White's happiness.
As I closed my eyes, feigning to be unconscious, I heard White erupt into a gale of laughter, screaming, "FREE AT LAST!"
She probably threw her head back, laughing, I thought, knowing I was correct, not surmising. I'd sensed White had suddenly grown tense.
I wondered what was going to happen, my ears picking up the wind whistling from both Reshiram's spread wings and the breeze, sharper than usual. I was therefore unsurprised when my heart did yet another relay race, meaning White was up to something.
When White brushed my fingers against my face, sighing, I did my utmost to remain rigid, reeling in my nervousness and shyness before it colored my cheeks.
"I'm so gonna regret this," she murmured, grasping hold of my forearm with her unbroken hand, pulling me even closer to her torso.
I waited for whatever White was going to do, and why she would rue it later on. I woke up at the perfect time, I thought smugly, fighting the urge to smirk.
Five long seconds stretched by, before I felt White's lips brush against my cheek, her whispering, "Thank you." She pressed her mouth against my cheek again, sighing contently.
I wanted to remain this way forever.
White didn't seem to bear that in mind, for she broke the kiss, much to my dismay.
I opened my eyes once more, locking them onto White's face, her eyelids closed. She seemed relaxed, even tracing her lips with two of her fingers.
You're right. I moved slightly, shutting my eyes. You are so going to regret this.
I was gleeful when White froze, meaning I had snapped her out of her trance.
Right when I opened my eyes, I gazed at a horrorstruck White, as pale as a ghost.
"I enjoyed that," I confessed, "and by the way, you're welcome."
White screamed.
Chapter 13: Memory Lane
N's PoV.
I smiled impishly, reveling in White's embarrassment and horror. "What's the matter?" I asked, seeing White tearing her gaze off me, developing an interest with the voluminous lake, sparkling like pennies.
I have to admit, this was the bluest lake I have ever laid eyes upon. The waters were calmer than the usual calm, ripples materializing into being whenever Pokemon popped out of the water, their profiles damp, and their facial expressions happy at the prospect of freedom.
"This – is – so – embarrassing," said White between clenched teeth. "Great, now you're going to tell Cheren, my mother and Bianca about this, aren't you?" She didn't turn around to throw daggers at me, which was a first.
I was spellbound at the way her hair ascended and descended through the air, worthy of a supermodel. It would be so beautiful if White swerved around, staring at me with her unique eyes, prettier and bluer than this lake. The lake paled in comparison to those jewels.
Since it was dusk, the remnants of the sunset would embrace both the forest and White, thus creating the ultimate manifestation of beauty. If I were an Artist . . . No, N, I chided myself. Don't think about that at all.
I launched my upper body up, glancing at White. "I would never," I promised. "I only trust you, not them." I patted my cheek dreamily, thinking about how nice it was when White kissed me. "Can I tell you something?"
White tore her eyes off the horizon, staring at me intently. "If you want me to kiss you full on the mouth, forget it," she said, suspicious.
I extricated myself from her embrace, shaking my head in protest. "That wasn't what I had in mind at all!" I replied, waving my hands around wildly. "In fact, why would I want to kiss you? I'm not your type, remember?" A hint of sadness was buried in my voice, diluted by testiness.
White nodded, satisfied. "Okay."
Before I could stop myself, I flicked the stray bangs out of my face in order to better survey White. "Before I ask my question, then answer this one." White held my gaze, half-suspicious, half-curious. "Do you like Cheren? As in like him, like him?"
White's face twisted with disgust. "EWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!" she responded, mockingly spitting into the lake to emphasize her being repulsed.
I held my chin, giving the tiniest of nods. "Pokemon live in this lake, so don't spit into it," I said, "because they'll all die since Snow White poisoned them by spitting into -" For once, I didn't rue making White fly off the handle, because she threw daggers at me, twisting her mouth.
"You're impossible," White huffed, fixing her hat. "For your information, Cheren and I are just friends. F-R-I-E-N-D-S. Seriously, why do you care, anyways?" White's arms were twitching, meaning she wanted to fold her arms against her torso once more.
"I don't know why I care," I admitted. "I think he likes you, though."
White howled with laughter. "Cheren's like a brother to me. Sure, I crushed on him when I was smaller, but we've never dated or anything like that. If you ask me, I think Bianca and Cheren belong together." Fixing me with an intimidating stare, she asked, "What do you want to ask me about?"
I stared at her full in the face. "Do you want me to ride on Zekrom?"
The brunette's face drained of color. "N-No," she answered, taken aback by the question. "I want you to stay on Reshiram, okay? I sometimes feel like strangling you yet I like being around you. Right now, I want you to ride Reshiram with me, because we're partners and friends."
I nodded. "Just this once," I agreed, seeing White smile brightly. "Well, the question isn't really a question, Snow White -"
"Don't call me that!"
"It's kinda a confession, a story to be more exact," I cut across her. "I want a heart-to-heart conversation, White."
She looked perplexed big time.
"It's about me leaving Unova," I said unthinkingly, staring at White.
"N," she started to say, "You left because you -"
"That was one reason," I interjected. "Duck!" An outcropping was coming up fast, serpentine vines embracing it tightly. Grasping White's hand, I pulled her down, although I'd mistimed the distance, for White's hat cleanly flew off her head, skating through the air, far away from us.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" she thundered. "NOT MY HAT!"
Letting go of her hand, I wheeled around, gazing deep into those jewels. "When we find a town or city, I'll buy you a new hat," I promised.
"I'll buy it myself," White protested. "Anyways, what was the real reason why you left Unova?"
I wheeled around; enjoying the way Reshiram was gliding through the air. In a way, it had a rhythm to it, albeit no music was playing at all. "Well . . . because you'd scared me," I admitted, blushing madly. "Please, don't take it the wrong way."
"I'm not mad," said White frankly. "I'm just a little surprised, that's all." I sensed no trace of lividness in her enchanting voice, diluted or not.
She really is surprised. "White, when I first met you . . . not only did I battle you because of your Pokemon, but because you had this . . . this . . ."
"Aura?" White supplied. "I thought I was the only one." She seemed excited at this fact, bringing a large abundance of pleasure to my heart. "Go on," she encouraged.
"Because you had this aura around you," I continued. "It was powerful." Closing my eyes, I remembered the magnetic attraction, heralding the emotions of completeness, peace and a sense of homecoming. Since I had once despised humans, I was afraid, angry and disgusted at this irresistible draw. However, it enthralled me as well.
"If I had to describe it . . . I was drawn to you like a magnet." Reshiram made a sharp right turn, narrowly avoiding a sheet of water, roaring distinctly in my ears. "When I was born, Ghetsis secluded my mother and I from the world, much to my mother's dismay. Ghetsis was kind enough to allow Concordia, Amara and Anthea to stay at our manor." I wanted to talk of my mother's mysterious death, but I wasn't ready to open up that much. White only needs to know what I felt about her and what Reshiram thinks of her, I told myself sternly. "My mother taught me about Unova's, Kanto's, Johto's, Hoenn's, Orre's, Kalos's and Sinnoh's histories and all about Pokemon. Amara showed me how to read, write and speak a couple of languages while teaching me manners and etiquette. Concordia taught me about science and Anthea showed me how to do math.
"Ghetsis was conflicted, even then," I recalled. "Whenever my mother suffered from Ghetsis's abusive ways, I stood up for her and vice versa. There were times when Anthea, Amara and Concordia got involved, although Ghetsis sent me away to the forest when that happened, so I can play with Pokemon.
"I was born with the ability to empathize and communicate with Pokemon," I confessed. "I actually inherited this ability from my mother, who was better at it than I will ever be."
"What does this have to do with me?" White wondered.
I sighed. "I'm telling you a little about myself," I said. "Is that a crime or what?"
White blinked. "No," she responded. "I want to know you better, okay?"
In the distance, I saw Cheren, Bianca and Platina conversing with each other. "YOU TWO, STOP ENJOYING THE SUNSET AND HURRY UP!" Bianca yelled, holding onto Tornadus for dear life, her hair flying about in the breeze, sticking up everywhere. "WHITE, WHEN WE LAND IN OPELUCID CITY, YOU OWE ME A PEDICURE, MANICURE AND A NEW HAIRSTYLE!"
"Opelucid City?" I repeated. "We shouldn't head for Opelucid, since that's too obvious of a location." I wheeled around, staring at an inquisitive White. "You really want to know about my past, huh?" In spite of myself, I smirked.
"Yes," White agreed.
I dropped the smirk. "I only felt attached to Ghetsis, my mother, Anthea, Amara and Concordia. When I was ten, my mother died, leaving Ghetsis to take care of me. Anthea, Concordia and Amara (who were like sisters to me) stepped up, acting as if I were their own son. Amara passed away when I was twelve, so only Concordia and Anthea were left to take care of me, since Ghetsis was off doing his own thing with his six best froemds, the Seven Sages. As time passed by, he paid more attention to me, sharing my "idea" of Pokemon liberation.
"On my sixteenth birthday, I was crowned King of Team Plasma by the others and . . . everything began." I turned around, surveying an attentively listening White. "I accompanied Ghetsis into Accumula Town -"
White wagged her finger. "You've told me about this during our showdown," White sighed.
I nodded. "I'd told you some of it," I admitted. "I didn't tell you the whole thing, though."
"You mean the magnetic attraction?" White pressed me.
"Yes," I confirmed. "I wanted to battle you for two reasons. I'd mentioned one three weeks ago." I wheeled around, Reshiram's mane floating around in several directions, almost lapping against my neck. "The other one was . . . I wanted to get to know you, which enthralled, disgusted, scared and excited me. . . It's hard to describe the pull."
Reshiram's mane slapped my nose, thus making me sneeze.
"God bless you," said White politely.
"Thanks."
Watch the mane, dude, I thought, surreptitiously pressing my hand against Reshiram's skull. Look, I know you hate me and everything, but . . .
Reshiram snorted. Whoever said anything about hate? it challenged me. I think hate's too strong a word, so why not use dislike? I know Zekrom dislikes me, which kind of makes me gloomy and hurt.
And you? I said, curious.
I have nothing against Zekrom, Reshiram informed me flatly. I never have, even though I'm just as strong as he is.
He? I asked. So you're not genderless after all!
Nope, Reshiram agreed. Seriously, my physique says I'm a female, N. Reshiram lazily zoomed in and out of a maze of outcroppings protruding from the lake, birds' nests atop the circular top, filled with Pokemon Eggs. Anyway, I really don't care whether or not if humans know my gender or not. Now, finish that lovely story of yours, so I can gossip about it to Zebstrika, Samurott, Tornadus, Cobalion and Simisear!
I sighed.
I thought you can tell sarcasm from truth, Reshiram said, apparently entertained. Well, don't mind me!
As I withdrew my hand from Reshiram's skull, I shook my head in disbelief. Reshiram not only believes in Truth, but she – it – whatever gender it is – is sarcastic! "Where was I?" I asked White.
White shrugged her shoulders, her face contorting with agony. "You were saying something about Accumula Town," White reminded me, "and you were talking about this magnetic attraction you have . . . which I also have."
I nodded. "Maybe I should tell you a story."
Accumula Town.
N's PoV.
I wanted to be outside with Ghetsis, not hiding in the darkened slums with several bodyguards from Team Plasma, all of them staring at me with awe, the females regarding me with lustful looks.
Together, father and son should express their desires to create two different worlds, one with humans, and the other with Pokemon. They had to be side-by-side, spreading their words of wisdom, winning over the inferior with their mesmerizing voices.
"I want to be outside with my father," I moaned. "I honestly do not care if I'm socially awkward – we should do this as a family." I grasped the nearest grunt by the arm, forcefully wheeling them around.
"Your Majesty, Lord Ghetsis ordered for you not to intervene," he said sadly. "His reasons have nothing to do with your social awkwardness. Besides, you're better than the pathetic children residing in Unova. All of us grunts – free of the mindless children - serve Lord Ghetsis and the inner circle for the greater good."
I sighed. "Perhaps you have a point," I conceded, straightening my brand-new hat, flat black in color. "Father is excellent with his well-chosen words and his powerful voice. But isn't it disappointing and sad no one else understands our mission and purpose?"
"Indeed," he agreed.
"With all due respect, Your Majesty, keep your voice down," said one of the grunts. "Aidan, shut the hell up. Lord Ghetsis is about to start his elegant speech!" Stupidly, the fool clapped his hands, followed suit by the other grunts, the grunt named Aidan wrenching his arm free from my grasp.
Suddenly, I felt an overwhelming aura emitting from someone, although I couldn't determine the source. This type of aura was tempting, luring me in instantly.
Tiptoeing, I craned my neck over the grunts, viewing a brown-haired girl and blue-haired boy, both sixteen, arguing with the twin Team Plasma grunts barricading the gate to Route 2. I feel rather sad for them, I thought, but they need to wait until Father finishes his speech. Such a pity.
"White," the blue-haired boy was saying, his voice cool, calculating and methodical. "If you throw a punch at them, all you're going to do is cause an uproar." He was chasing after White, who was storming off, unhappy.
Right when she passed the darkened alleyway, I felt the pull, stronger than ever. All I wanted to do was run over to this White, who was obviously a Pokemon Trainer, judging by the single Poke Ball strapped to her belt. I had no interest in the boy, even though he carried two Poke Balls with him.
I wanted to battle White, because her aura was so compelling and irresistible, yet it left me with revulsion and anxiousness. Once Ghetsis was done with his speech, I would approach this girl, despite the risks involved. Somehow, I felt as if I had no choice in the matter. I have to know her, I decided, but I feel as if I've met this girl before, even though I have never seen her before.
White was unlike any other woman or girl I'd ever seen in my life. She was beyond beautiful: White had one of those timeless faces, possessing a slender and slim physique.
Her large eyes, wide in setting, were startlingly beautiful – the deepest, richest and darkest blue gems reminding me of the sea, save they had to be darker.
Her thick, luxurious, wavy hair was of medium-length, flowing down to the small of her back. It was chocolate brown, the morning sun bringing out faint golden highlights woven into the mane, wearing a snowy white and red hat embossed with a red Poke Ball between her disheveled hairstyle. I longed to touch the texture of her hair, evidently sleek and smooth. On the contrary, her thin eyebrows were a lighter shade of brown.
White's skin tone was pale brown whilst her complexion was perfect, flawless and slightly translucent.
For a sixteen-year-old girl, White was very petite, about 4'11". She was shorter than her guy friend by a good hand span.
White turned on her heel, allowing her friend to catch up with her. "How did Bianca pass through?" she wondered, her high soprano voice silvery and musical. "And Cheren, I wasn't even thinking about socking those arrogant idiots, but there's an idea."
Cheren was bespectacled, since his glasses flashed, his eyes narrowed. "You would do no such thing," he told her. "Violence doesn't solve anything, and for once, let's not cause an uproar, okay?"
White chuckled. "Did you see their costumes, though?" she asked, delighted. "Last time I've checked, this isn't a festival to honor Zekrom and Reshiram! Tuat isn't until the summer solstice!" She slid her hand into her denim short shorts pocket, a Pokedex nestled inside her hand. "I wanna see if those two really exist!" she exclaimed before slipping it into the pocket once more, hidden from human eyes.
"White," Cheren sighed. "No one hasn't seen them for millennia . . . Those Pokemon vanished into myths and legends."
White clenched her fists, determined. "I will challenge all of the Gym Leaders, get their Badges, fill up Professor Juniper's Pokedex, become Pokemon Champion and find Zekrom and Reshiram," she vowed. "I hope you and Bianca are with me on this, because I want competition."
Fiery, determined and sarcastic, I observed.
Ghetsis, flanked by the strongest Team Plasma guards and the Shadow Triad, stepped onto the dais, a sea of humans gazing at him with awe and apprehension.
"I wonder why this man -" Cheren began to say, before White slapped her hand onto his wrist, lacing her fingers around it, so he couldn't escape. "What do you think you're doing?"
White darted her eyes toward the darkened alleyway I was stationed in, heavily shielded by the Team Plasma guards. Then, she broke the intimidating stare, gazing at Cheren. "It's either a festival honoring this obese, hideous deity or he's preaching about something. Let's go check what he wants."
With that, White and Cheren melted into the crowd, White exuding her innocent yet intoxicating aura, thus allowing me to locate her.
Ghetsis stepped forward, the Shadow Triad moving forth. Opening his arms wide, a cordial smile on his face, he announced, "My name is Ghetsis." For a split second, Ghetsis stared into the slums where I was hiding before facing the audience again.
"I am here representing Team Plasma," he continued. "Today, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to talk to you about Pokemon liberation."
My lips curled, satisfied Ghetsis was carefully yet swiftly moving to the subject we of Team Plasma so heartily pursued as a dream. Although Ghetsis and I couldn't meet eye-to-eye in the past, I was happy we'd bonded due to a common goal in recent years.
Another part of me insisted this wasn't what I was meant to do, impregnating my mind with doubts and skepticism. Unhappy at the mental intervention, I pushed the thought into the corners of my mind.
The audience had acted as Ghetsis expected: They were confused but eager to learn more. White and Cheren, on the contrary, were perplexed yet unconvinced.
I probed White's eyes, burning with passion and defiance, her face disgusted.
"I'm sure most of you believe that we humans and Pokemon are partners that have come to live together because we want and need each other." Ghetsis folded his hands behind his back, beginning to stroll up and down the concrete dais, his chin held up high. "However," he paused, stopping in his tracks, "is that really the truth? Have you ever considered that perhaps us humans . . .?"
Unmistakably, Ghetsis glared at White, clear recognition on his face, instantly quelled by his expressionless countenance. "We humans only assume that is the truth?"
He had flattered the crowd, even winning over Cheren before White slapped him across the face, gripping him by the shirt, mouthing words I wanted to hear, but couldn't. To my horror, White seemed to be able to resist the mesmerizing and convincing tone of Ghetsis.
Looking at my bodyguards, I hissed, "Out of all people, Father couldn't win over a mere sixteen-year-old girl from rural Nuvema Town." That sparked my curiosity of White even more, because she had impressed me against my will. "She snapped her friend out of Father's spell as well. This complicates matters."
"King N, screw the girl," the female grunt told me gruffly. "Lord Ghetsis obviously noticed something about her, meaning you need to pay more attention to her."
I placed my feet down, fishing out a Poke Ball from my pocket. "I would talk to him about this," I informed the servant. "She poses a threat to our righteous plan, and this . . . I cannot tolerate. Father cannot let his guard down around her, and neither can the Shadow Triad, the other Seven Sages, Anthea, Concordia and Team Plasma."
White and Cheren protested, White biting her lip.
Ghetsis glared at Cheren first, causing the teenager to step back. Then, he focused his glare on White, who stared him down, as if analyzing the best way to take him down.
Ghetsis addressed the crowd again, saying gently, "Pokemon are subject to the selfish commands of Trainers. They get pushed around when they are our partners at work." Glaring pointedly at White again, Ghetsis asked, "Can anyone say with confidence that there is no truth in what I'm saying?"
Everyone except Cheren and White were considering Ghetsis's words. They were chattering amongst themselves, some apprehensive, some nervous and some pensive. On the other hand, White and Cheren were defiant, White quaking with rage. She obviously wanted to attack Ghetsis, but a blonde girl, about sixteen, materialized behind White, embracing her around the torso.
Cheren and the blonde were chiding her, White gritting her teeth whilst arguing with them.
"Now, ladies and gentlemen . . . Pokemon are different from humans. They are living beings that contain unknown potential. They are living beings from whom we humans have much to learn," Ghetsis plowed on, seeming oblivious to White's tantrum. "Tell me, what is our responsibility toward these wonderful beings called Pokemon?" Ghetsis wore an arrogant smile, his eyes void of emotion.
Liberation, I answered in my thoughts, tossing the Poke Ball up and down in my hands absentmindedly, and waiting for a brilliant answer from someone.
White tore herself free from the blonde's embrace. She pushed through the crowd, throwing a dirty glare at Ghetsis. "Of course we have a lot to learn about Pokemon," she told Ghetsis, "but if you're saying Pokemon Trainers are abusing Pokemon by battling each other, then you're wrong!"
Ghetsis said nothing.
"Lemme guess," said White sarcastically, pulling a face. "We should liberate Pokemon because we're mistreating them, am I right?"
I stared at White, unable to believe how rudely she addressed Ghetsis. But by defying Ghetsis . . . White would rue standing up for her beliefs.
"That's right!" Ghetsis nodded. "We must liberate the Pokemon." He exchanged glares with White, hatred in both sets of eyes. "Then, and only then, will humans and Pokemon truly be equals." Ghetsis flicked his hand, marching down the dais, but not before staring at White with hatred and grudging admiration.
Once Ghetsis was off the dais, he concluded, "Everyone, I end my words here today by imploring you to consider the relationship between people and Pokemon . . . and the correct way to proceed. We sincerely appreciate your attention." The Shadow Triad leapt off the dais, while the assembled Team Plasma members walked down. When everyone passed White, they stared at her with uncertainty.
The crowd split apart, leaving White alone. A moment later, Cheren and the blonde came over, squeezing her shoulders.
"King N, you were right," said one of the bodyguards. "This girl could be the downfall of our scheme."
All of them turned around, eyeing me with utmost respect, bowing before me. "That's for Father to determine," I said to them, before motioning for them to rise. "I may be King, yet Father is my adviser, thus meaning I must consult with him before making a final decision." I stared at White, who was talking away with Cheren and the blonde, frightened. She is sensible to feel that way, I thought, because there's no way in hell we of Team Plasma would let this girl – a threat – bring down our dream of the perfect world.
Ghetsis emerged into the alleyway, the bodyguards curtsying before him. "Stand," he ordered.
They instantly obeyed him.
I stared at Ghetsis, amazed. "You had everything under control," I breathed. "However, I wish I could've been of more help –"
Ghetsis silenced me with a cold look. "If I had a choice, then I would've let you be up there with me," he confessed, "but surely you have realized why I'd told you to remain in the shadows, N." He looked behind him, giving a derisive snort.
"I don't quite follow," I admitted, sauntering forward, the Team Plasma grunts splitting apart so I could better survey Ghetsis. "Are you referring to that brunette?"
Ghetsis twirled around, the bottom of his robes flying about. "So, you've been observing," he said proudly. "I would've been a fool to not realize someone would be stupid enough to challenge our dream of conquering Unova." His face adopted a faraway look, as if he were remembering old times. I swore I heard him murmuring about how she bore a striking resemblance to an old friend/friendly rival of his.
Judging from Ghetsis's reaction, maybe this person meant a lot to him. However, I knew better than to ask him any questions when he was addressing me. "This girl is but an ordinary adolescent hailing from the inconsequential Nuvema Town. Nevertheless, she resisted my imploring, and that alone irks me."
Ghetsis fixed the monocle in his eye. "N, I have a small favor to ask of you."
I stared at Ghetsis, grinning from ear-to-ear. "Anything, Father," I said breathlessly. "After all, family does help one another, right?" The smile promptly slid off my face when Ghetsis furrowed his brows.
I chanced a look at White, who was saying goodbye to the blonde girl and Cheren, using her hands to emphasize her way of speaking. "The girl might be ordinary yet she defied me back when I made my speech, N," Ghetsis spoke, snapping me back to reality. "I would battle her for her impudence, although you're a Pokemon Trainer as well. You could take her down."
The Team Plasma grunts blinked in disbelief.
"I can take her on," one said promptly.
"I'm stronger than that country girl."
"Lord Ghetsis, perhaps I should go."
"I have more experience!"
The twins barricading the gates to Route 2 stepped from their posts, walking over to the throng of Team Plasma guards, the Shadow Triad, Ghetsis and I. "What is this nonsense?" one of them demanded, looking from Ghetsis to me.
I stared at everyone, saving Ghetsis for last. When we locked eyes with each other, I nodded, saying seriously, "I was thinking the same thing, Father." Clutching the Poke Ball in my hand, I smirked in order to hide my innermost fears of letting Ghetsis down.
"Very well," said Ghetsis. "If you do not mind, I want to take my leave."
I flicked my hand, waving it afterward. "Of course you may," I said cheerily, nodding with approval.
I left Ghetsis behind with the others.
Accumula Town returned to its serene self, but every person I walked by, they seemed uneasy and troubled, many muttering to themselves about Pokemon liberation. I did see Cheren waltz past me, tapping his eyeglasses, nostalgic.
As I weaved in and out of the crowd, I spotted the blonde girl skipping by, throwing her Poke Balls in the air. What an airhead, I thought, shaking my head. I'd learned long ago some peoples' heads were as empty as flowerpots.
As I passed another human, I spotted White, zipping out of the Pokemon Center, people regarding her as if she were some heroine or something. "What are you looking at?" she asked them, embarrassed.
White plopped down onto a nearby bench, stretching her arms out. "I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse!" White reached behind her, holding a pinkish-red backpack. "Seriously, I told Mother I wanted a crimson backpack, not a pink one!" White slammed it next to her, annoyed. "Well, beggars can't be choosers, so let's see what she packed for me."
I stood, transfixed to the spot, wondering how such a happy-go-lucky teenager could've confronted Ghetsis. Her carefree, crooked smile emitted warmth, reminding me of the sun.
White unzipped her backpack, grinning even wider. "Awesome," she breathed. "She packed one of my favorites: Cheeseburgers!" White started chortling, lifting a wrapped cheeseburger from her backpack, looking at it reverently. Hastily, White took off the cheeseburger wrapper, crumpling the wrapper into a ball moments later.
White twirled the ball once, then twice and then thrice. "White for three!" The brunette released the ball, aiming for the trash can behind me.
Unfortunately, she hit my head, thus enraging me.
White opened her mouth wide, taking a large bite out of her cheeseburger. "Dihs is sho good," she said with her mouth full. A crestfallen expression replaced the dreamy one on her face.
Although I felt sorry for her, I stormed over, gritting my teeth. How can she not notice I was nearby? I wondered before I froze in front of White, who was chomping away on her cheeseburger nonstop. She looks so happy . . . Wait, I promised Father I would handle her.
"Hello," I greeted her, making her start.
White raised her eyebrows, irritated. "If you don't mind, I'm eating right now." Suddenly, she gasped. "I have an idea! Why don't you eat with me?" White shoved the last portion into her mouth – a very large one – before swallowing it whole. "C'mon," she pleaded, her eyes exuding innocence. "I don't bite."
As White dug her hand into her bag again, producing a bottle of water, I sat down.
"I'm not hungry," I told her firmly, "but it breaks my heart that I won't be able to eat with you at all." I kept a calm face, ignoring the magnetic draw toward this teenager. "I feel bad already."
"Don't." White unscrewed the cap from the bottle, promptly closing her mouth on the neck, lacing her slender fingers around the cylinder container. As the water level in the container descended, the bottle started caving in. When every last drop was gone, White said, "AHHHH! That hit the spot."
She wheeled around, flinging her hair backward. "Have we met?" she blurted out. "I feel as if I've seen you somewhere before." White laughed, mirth dancing in her eyes. "I mean, I don't care if you don't eat. I have a Pokemon to feed anyway."
I stared at White, unsure whether to tell her I felt as if I'd seen her before as well or not.
As White ripped the Poke Ball from her belt, she tapped the button, the capsule enlarging in size. She examined the Poke Ball, thoughtlessly kissing it a split second later. "OSHAWOTT!" White boomed so loudly, I cringed from the noise.
Oshawott materialized into being, jumping up and down, ecstatic. "Do you want a cheeseburger or -" White dug into her bag once more, absently throwing the empty water bottle into her pack. "Or this?" Her face wore a look of disgust, even after the Poke Ball boomeranged back into her hand.
I bended over, positioning my elbows onto my knees, cupping my chin with my hands. Blast this hair! I thought. When my bushy locks flowed through the crevices my hands created, I flicked them out of the way before I cupped my chin once more.
I don't care which one, Oshawott thought happily, tilting his head from the Pokemon food to the cheeseburger White held aloft in both of her hands. Just feed me!
Oshawott dashed over to White, plopping himself on top of her lap, pointing at the cheeseburger.
"Good choice," White said approvingly. "You have good taste, Oshawott." Looking at me, she said kindly, "Do you mind putting this away?" White brandished the bag full of Pokemon food in front of my face before wheeling around to feed Oshawott, laughing all the while.
In order to get on White's good side, I unwillingly tossed the bag into the backpack before going back to my original stance. I might as well let Oshawott have his fun, I thought bitterly.
"You eat fast," White noted, chuckling again.
Oshawott thought, I wanna tell you I love it, White! I'm so excited about our adventure! I really wanna tell you I was so pleased when you chose me instead of Bianca and Cheren. No matter what happens, I'll stick by your side until the very end. I'm your friend for life, your greatest ally! Oh, how I wish to tell you I really adore and love you, White! Oshawott cuddled against White's chest, content.
I gasped. "Your Pokemon . . . it was just saying . . ." I was dumbfounded at this discovery.
White turned her head to look at me. "Sorry?" she said.
I swung myself off the bench, still holding onto the Poke Ball, glaring at Oshawott. What did you say again? I demanded. If you really meant it, then let me touch your head. I raised my hand next to White, who stared at me, bemused.
I meant it. But if you don't believe me, then I'll show you, Oshawott said defensively.
Oshawott dashed over to my hand, allowing me to rub his skull. She's a good person. The Pokemon showed me his memories of White, all of them joyous and painless.
"What do you think you're doing?" White demanded, jutting her chin. "Tell me before I slap you." Judging from her tone of voice, White wouldn't hesitate to slap me.
I withdrew my hand from Oshawott, scratching my chin. "I'd love to see you try," I taunted her. "If you get up, you'll hurt your Oshawott. Do you really want that to happen?"
Oshawott leaped off White, allowing White to stand up. She glared at me, suspicious. "Lemme try this again," she said, one of her hands twitching. "What in the name of God do you think you were doing?" White was angry, but I stood my ground, unfazed.
I tore my eyes off her, murmuring, "Yes, he's talking."
White blinked, confused. "You're insane," she spat. "I don't hear any voices."
I smiled arrogantly. "Oh," I sighed. I'm the only person alive who can communicate with Pokemon telepathically, so of course White wouldn't know how to do that, I reminded myself, irked at forgetting this.
All of a sudden, White slapped me across the face. "You're so . . . ugh!" she snapped, Oshawott rushing over to the backpack, zipping it shut, before slinging his arm around one of the straps, hopping off the bench with ease.
White stepped backward, Oshawott stationed next to her side. "Thanks," she whispered, before relieving her Pokemon of his burden, slinging the backpack on top of one of her shoulders.
Touching my face lightly, I repeated, "Oh." Shrugging my shoulders, I continued, "Then, you can't hear Oshawott talking . . . how sad." I withdrew my hand from my face, cringing from the stinging slap White had given me.
"Who are you?" White demanded, narrowing her eyes.
"My name is N," I introduced myself. "What's your name?" Of course, I already knew the answer, since I'd spied on her whilst Ghetsis was making his speech.
"I go by White," White said coldly. She dug into her pocket, eventually taking out the Pokedex.
I frowned, even furrowing my brows. "A Pokedex, eh?" I said coolly. "So . . . you're going to confine many, many Pokemon in Poke Balls for that, then?"
White shook her head. "So, you're jumping on the Team Plasma liberation bandwagon, too?" she said, upset. "Well, if you are . . . When I defeat you, tell Ghetsis that I'll foil his plan, N. By the way, is N a nickname or what?"
I pinched the bridge of my nose. "It's my name," I answered.
Eyeing Oshawott, I added, "I'm a Trainer, too."
"Good," said White, thoroughly pleased. "I was wondering if you were some magician or not because -"
I silenced White with a frosty expression, much to her dismay and irritation. "But I can't help wondering if . . . Don't you wonder if Pokemon are really happy this way?"
White sneered at me, just as Oshawott pounced in front of her, eyeing me with distaste. "I'll tell you if you win," she promised. "By the way, remember to give Ghetsis the message if I win. Otherwise, I will file a letter of complaint under your name, so I can get you fired."
I rolled my eyes. "Well, White, is it?"
White clapped her hand to her head. "You seriously forgot my name, already?" She pointed at me, her eyes aflame with justice, burning so brightly. "I guess first impressions are wrong. But I'm pretty sure Ghetsis eats twenty-four-seven."
I ignored her sarcastic comment. "Let me hear your Pokémon's voice again!" I ordered, flinging the Poke Ball out of my hand, watching it hit the cobbled street. "GO, PURRLOIN!" Purrloin appeared, right when the Poke Ball went back into my hand.
White cracked a grin. "Seriously?" She howled with laughter. "Is this some kind of joke or what?"
"Ladies first," I invited. "You seem different from other Pokemon Trainers." Looking at her intently, I declared, "Let's see if I'm right, so humor me with this battle."
White gave me the thumbs-up. "Oh, I definitely will."
N's PoV.
I couldn't trust myself to look back at White. "We know you've defeated me fair and square every time," I told her, not embarrassed in the slightest. "After that battle, I tried to run away from you but I had to know you, so I stal – followed you."
"What was that?" White hissed. "N, turn around and say it to me."
I wheeled around, speedily saying, "After I lost to you, I wasn't angry. In fact, I didn't know what to feel, except I was determined about not only freeing Pokemon, but also getting to know you. I knew the risks, but I had to know you. Every time we bumped into each other, it wasn't by chance, White."
White frowned. "Stop avoiding the issue," she commanded. "I thought I heard you say something else before following you." She wasn't going to drop this, so I knew I had to fess up.
"I kind of stalked you -"
White leaned over, drilling her eyes into mine. "YOU WHAT?" she shouted at the top of her lungs. "That's just creepy, right there." White leaned back, looking at me with revulsion. "Seriously, if you wanted to know me that badly, you could've said so on the Ferris wheel, not stalk me!" White glowered at me, shaking her head with disbelief. "I know you're socially awkward, and maybe that's your way of showing . . . I dunno if I should slap, yell at or push you off Reshiram, all of those ideas pretty tempting. Oh my God, now I can't understand you."
I smirked. "So, now you finally admit it," I purred, feeling triumphant. "If you were really that angry at me, then you would've done one of them already," I observed.
White stuck out her tongue. "I'm confused, upset and angry," she protested. "Although I would push you off Reshiram if you keep pestering me about it. What's next? You were fantasizing about me?" She was very, very surprised at my confession.
"No," I disagreed. "Do you know what I see, White? I see a teenager who says she doesn't like me romantically yet she's curious about me. You say you like me yet you say you hate me." Laughing hollowly, I continued, "At least I'm not the only one who has mood swings."
"THAT'S IT!" White tried to lunge at me, but cried in agony. "You're so damn lucky my hand's broken and we're travelling across water." White adopted a mortified expression, wild-eyed. "Don't drop me, Reshiram," she moaned in despair.
I raised my eyebrows. "Are you afraid of heights?" I asked. "She won't drop you."
White rolled her eyes. "Don't be stupid," she snapped. "If I were afraid of heights, would I be in the sky?" White moved her arms up and down like a bird, her face twisting with agony.
N, Reshiram spoke in my mind.
While White was acting as if she were delirious, I placed my hand on Reshiram's skull, closing my eyes.
"Are you talking with my Pokemon?" White's voice was near me, thick with fright. "What is it saying, N?"
"Earlier, Reshiram told me she wished -"
"Back up a second," White interrupted, followed by a hissing. "I can't talk with my hands and voice, only my voice." She sounded so crestfallen; I truly did feel guilty for her, even though White was responsible for breaking her hand. "Reshiram's a female?" she said, amazed.
I nodded. "She likes being classified as genderless for some reason," I continued. "Reshiram loves and deeply cares about you a lot, White. I do think her views about your personality are a bit off, though." I smirked. "Reshiram holds you in high esteem, ignoring the fact you're stubborn and impulsive." White punched me lightly on the shoulder, both of us laughing.
"Did I hear what I thought I just heard?" White was in utter disbelief.
"Something's wrong with your ears," I replied.
White laughed.
"So Reshiram loves me very much?" She seemed pleased at this. Cheerful even.
"Yeah," I confirmed. "Tornadus, Samurott, Simisear, Zebstrika and Cobalion feel the same way."
"I already knew that," White mumbled. "They would do anything for me."
I turned around, startled to see White crying. "Don't cry," I pleaded.
White smiled. "These are tears of happiness!" she exclaimed. "Now, talk to Reshiram more! I'm dying to hear what she's saying."
What do you want? I asked Reshiram.
I meant it when I said I would put my dislike for Zekrom aside when it comes to White's happiness, Reshiram said gravely. Although the legends and myths portray me as a destructive and violent Pokemon able enough to bring about an apocalypse, they're inaccurate. Out of Zekrom and me, I'm the gentler and peaceful one. I dislike fighting more than anything, but when a Pokemon challenges me, I would naturally defend myself.
Are you saying you dislike confrontation? I asked Reshiram, confounded. You were better off with me, then.
I am the Pokemon of Truth, Reshiram reminded me. I only appear to those who have a strong sense of duty and justice. The Hero of Truth must be brave, as is the norm, but not only physically. They must also possess moral bravery, courageous enough to walk down a dangerous and unknown road leading to the Truth, whether good or evil. White has done that, leading to my reawakening after several millennia.
That doesn't answer my question, I said sharply.
I gave you my answer, said Reshiram. Now I have a question for you, N.
"What did Reshiram say, N?" White pressed me.
I told her about Reshiram said about her true personality and why she didn't select me as the Hero of Truth, and gave me a cryptic answer. When I informed White about Reshiram's answer, a look of comprehension dawned on White's face.
What's the question? I asked Reshiram.
It would be between you and me, Reshiram promised. I swear this in the name of Truth.
I nodded. Fire away . . . no pun intended.
I closed my eyes, wondering what Reshiram was going to ask me.
I sincerely hoped it was positive.
A/N: "Memory Lane" is finished. Read and Review! Great, now I'm wondering if I'd captured the innocence of N in the flashback. Well, I have to remind you the poll is still up and running until I decide who the winner is.
This chapter has been reedited for the upcoming sequel, Eventide. None of the content has been modified to the point of where there is a change in the plot. I had corrected some grammatical errors.
Edited On: 11/01/15