18th Red Ash Moon, 908, Earlier

Giles Grove was…an efficient intel gatherer.

Efficient was one way Valentine would describe it as he continued his deep dive into the deceased Heatmor's scribbles and notes, hidden under layers of cryptic text and poor penmanship. Had Giles been born a species with great travel speed, he could easily surpass Petra in information collection. It's what made him such a vital asset to the Foresters.

And the reason why Valentine was so obsessed with uncovering the truth to the Heatmor's madness.

He poured through all sorts of books and scriptures to decipher the hidden depths of Giles' findings. All he and the other knew for certain was that he was on the trail for Last Autumn's return. He had informed Jason of this some time ago, but it wasn't taken seriously then. It seemed dismissive, but Giles was known to believe some rather kooky ideas. No one ever took his research seriously.

Valentine was the exception. While he never truly believed it, he never dismissed the possibility. He reveled in the Heatmor's mad ramblings. It felt like learning a new language. In fact, the only other people who seemed to listen to Giles were Basil and Marie. He would occasionally catch those three hanging out in private. He could understand Marie given their closeness, though Basil was always the odd one out. Always sticking his snout into other people's business and never elaborating.

Though, if it had anything to do with Giles' notebook, perhaps there was a reason.

The most Valentine could decipher from the notebook ranged from entire pages scribbled with a wall of repeated words spelling out Eyes. Just a wall of Eyes. Something about a civil war, flames of rebellion, and the truth is buried under the cathedral. None of it made sense, though Giles had a pour habit of writing down his scattered thoughts and giving no context. Nothing in the notebook made sense to anyone but the author himself.

There were sketches, too. One depicted a triangle with a giant eye in the center. Another was just the number eight, but with lines branching out. The number nine was scratched out, there was a ten with a question mark, and something about an egg with arrows spinning around it.

Complete lunacy.

Valentine leaned back in his chair, biting on the tip of his quill. "Ever since Giles became a Nature Spirit, he went on a lot of solo missions. Not even Jason knew what he was up to for those two years. Is this what he's been doing all that time? Where did he come across all this information? And how?" He sighed. "Dammit Giles, what got into you?"

"You say that like Giles was always normal." He tilted his head back and saw Sidney walking in. She naturally brought Rusty along. "He was always a bit of a scatterbrain."

He sighed. "Yeah, but we both know he started obsessing after…well, you know."

"…" Sid looked down. "He was talented. He became a Greenwood Leader and a Nature Spirit Scout in one year. All of us have been around for longer, yet he took to the action faster than all of us. Even if he was a bit of a recluse always running off and doing his own thing, it's…hard to believe he's really gone. The anniversary of his death will be coming up in another month."

Valentine shook his head. "Sometimes I wonder where his head is when he's not looking. He's looking forward and giving himself tunnel vision whenever he searches for some new, exciting tidbit of history."

She giggled. "Remember when he was convinced the skeleton of Xerneas herself was buried somewhere under the forest?"

He smirked. "Or the time he thought magnets were the key to reading the future?" He sighed and looked down at his deciphered notes. "…I miss him."

"Me, too. So does Rusty." She gently shook the bucket to indicate agreement. "So, is there anything in that notebook that we should be worried about or having a tearful laugh over?"

Valentine glared. "Giles didn't leave us much to work with. Take this for example. Apparently, he found some of his own informants, but the names make no sense to me. The Gold Architect? The findings of the Accused Farmer? This one just says Crown without a Crown!"

Sid sighed. "Yeah, that sounds like Giles' handiwork."

"I want to think this is just Giles being Giles, but…I'm starting to think he knew more than he was letting on. He predicted Last Autumn's return, and we waved off his findings. If we had taken him seriously earlier, maybe…we could've prevented unnecessary bloodshed."

Sid shook her head. "It's not like it could've been prevented. Giles was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. No one could've predicted him getting jumped by Pasco and his gang."

"…Something about that always bothered me."

She raised her brow. "What do you mean?"

"Giles. The guy who fought and survived an encounter with the Roar of the Wastes. He got jumped and restrained by some low-level thugs that a handicapped Jet and a rookie princess could defeat."

Sid frowned. "What…are you saying?"

He glared over his shoulder. "Are we sure we have the full story of what happened that day?"

About Four Years Ago…

"You want to join the Foresters?"

Twenty-one-year-old Giles Grove knelt before Jason. Having sought out the Foresters, he was granted invitation into Fort Lucus to speak with the leader on his most humble request.

"That's right, sir. I've heard much about the ways of the Foresters since you first appeared. I've admired your efforts from afar, and I feel I must contribute to restoring the sanctity of my home by fighting the injustice of Virdis."

Jason leaned back in his seat and glared. "What makes you qualified to become a thief? You must know how we do business."

Giles raised his head. "The thing is, I've always felt limited by the complacency of my home village. I've always wanted to travel beyond the borders of Verde, to see all the region has to offer. I'm something of a collector of mysterious and secrets."

"A collector?"

Giles stood up, his eyes sparkling with joy. "I've always loved puzzles and secrets. The journey of uncovering mind-boggling dilemmas that vex me from afar pumps my blood more than death itself." He glared off to the side. "Not much to look into when the biggest secret to uncover is who keeps yodeling at three in the morning."

Jason pinched between his eyes and groaned. "We're thieves, not conspiracy theorists. We steal from the noble classes to help those harmed by the system."

Giles nodded. "I didn't come here not knowing that. I can provide so much, though. I've got a keen nose for secrets. If the Foresters ever had any interests in pursuing outside the realm of thieving, my expertise would prove fruitful."

"…" Jason looked away for a moment. "That kind of work is exclusive to the Nature Spirit Scouts. It's way out of your league."

"The Nature Spirits, huh?" Giles glared. "If that's what it takes, I'll train harder than anyone else to become one. I want to put my skills to the ultimate test. Please, give me a chance!"

"You understand the nature of the work you're pursuing, right?" the young Pikachu asked. "This isn't fun and games everyone is opting into. You're diving into territory far beyond life back home. If you join, I can't guarantee your safety."

Giles nodded. "Whatever it takes, I'll do it."

"…Giles. What is it that you seek most of all?"

His eyes widened. "Huh?"

"Do you wish to uphold justice for the weak and helpless?" Jason leaned forward, cupping his hands under his chin. "Or is there something else you wish to find as a Forester?"

"…" The Heatmor sighed. "Can't get anything past you. Actually, as I said, I want to uncover the secrets of Virdis' lost history. So much was erased from the war two hundred years ago, and I want to revive those lost secrets. There is so much history lost to time. After all, a memory lasts as long as one person can recall it. If a memory dies, so does the existence of history. That's why I want to travel Virdis."

"…" Jason sighed. "Alright."

His eyes widened. "R-Really?"

"Starting tomorrow, you'll be put through Forester training. If you pass, you'll get to join the Foresters." He shrugged. "And who knows? With enough time and patience, maybe you'll get your wish to travel around Virdis at your leisure."

Giles grinned. "Oh, thank you very much, sir! I won't let you down!"

"Hmm. I can tell you have a lot of potential, Giles. Show us what you're capable of."

Laughter erupted during dinner service at the mess hall. Giles and Valentine raised their tankards, clinking them together, and downing their juice. It was a time to celebrate for the pair, who have grown quite close since Giles first joined. They were attracted by their fascination with the weird and unorthodox. A combination that both intrigued and frightened bystanders.

And what a time to celebrate, it was.

"You are a madman, you know that?" Valentine asked. "Four months after completing basic training, you're already on your way to becoming a Greenwood Leader. Congrats!"

Giles waved it off. "Hey, I've got to catch up with you in the ranks eventually. I'm just speeding up the process. Stealing a priceless golden statue was child's play for me!"

"Why even a statue?"

"Well, you didn't hear it from me, but I believe that statue is in fact a relic from an ancient race of hybrids who worshipped the original dragon. They were blessed with draconian characteristics by the god they worshipped. Imagine you being born part-Dragonite, my friend."

Valentine chuckled. "Amusing. A race of spliced Pokémon. That could be made into a book." He sipped his drinking, looking off to the side. "If you know what I mean."

"Are you talking to me or…?"

"Never mind. So, that's why you stole it?"

Giles snickered. "Well, I suppose it's because it was the easiest thing I could steal that met within the requirements. Work smarter, not harder."

"I look forward to the day when someone puts that claim to the test." Valentine swished his drink around. "Still, Greenwood. Not bad. You should tell Marie when she gets back from her mission."

Giles leaned back against the table and sighed. "I owe Marie a lot. She helped me plenty with my training when I was starting out. She said I was one of her best students."

"You're her only student."

"Thus making me her worst student, too!" Giles slapped the table and laughed. "But yeah, she's pretty amazing."

"I suppose. If you ask me, she can be pretty uptight."

"Her? She's cool around me."

Valentine shook his head. "Trust me, when I first met her, she was a mess."

The Heatmor frowned. "Oh? Was she difficult to work with?"

"No, she worked well with everyone when we were starting out. It's just…" Valentine glared into his mug. "She used to have trouble going to sleep. I'd…sometimes hear her crying herself to sleep."

"…" Giles glanced down at the floor. "Did something happen to her?"

"She doesn't like talking about herself. It's probably best to steer away from personal questions. I think she came out of a rough spot before Jason found her. Those two have history. Dark history, I'm sure. Jason was always trotting around the region finding likeminded individuals who want to send a message to the ten kingdoms."

"Hmm." Giles sipped his drink before sliding it back onto the table. "Valentine?"

"Yeah?"

"Do you ever feel like the world we live in is…bigger than what we see?"

"I suppose space is a thing."

"No, I mean…" He spread his arms out toward the ceiling. "Just imagine the craziest, most unreal thing you can. Is that just the imagination, or the beginnings of a discovery we puny Pokémon have yet to discover?"

"You mean like buried treasure or…?"

"I'm talking fantastical things beyond your wildest dreams! Like the hybrid dragons or space! I'm always looking into the news and discovering new and exciting things. Take Pandora, for instance! That girl excites me with the absurdity that goes on in her head! She's thinking of things I can't even describe. There's no limit to progress, and that's how I feel about uncovering the secrets of the world. I want to see it all!"

Valentine raised his brow. "Things beyond the scope of our perspective, huh?"

"Have you ever wondered if there are secrets about our world waiting to be discovered? Like what if there's more to the observable sky and the portrait of stars that decorate the darkness? How far does it reach out? Is there anything out there? Like an ancient race of sea monsters or an entire world made up of trash ran by goblins?"

Valentine laughed. "What are you talking about?"

"I want to know how strange the word is, Val! Settling for the normal is just boring. I want to grasp the secrets of the universe. There's so much potential beyond our walls."

The Spinda sipped his drink and laughed. "Secrets beyond our comprehension. I'd pay to see that."

"What do you think is the strangest thing about our world?"

"Hmm…I'd go with the people."

Giles laughed. "You're kidding, right?"

"Why not? You can just find weird stuff. That's just nature. Pokémon make weird stuff happen."

"Hmm…" Giles grinned. "Do you think there are other species of Pokémon undiscovered?"

"That, I can believe."

"Like ancient superweapons?"

"Maybe not that absurd, but it's possible. I've seen weirder." Valentine grinned. "When you find it, be sure to tell me. I'd like to see what discoveries you'll make in the future."

Giles raised his fist. "I'll tell you all about them after I become a Nature Spirit."

"Heh. It's a deal."

They bumped their fists together and shared into another drink, both filled with excitement to see what the Heatmor would uncover.

Giles couldn't sleep.

The nightmares continued to haunt him. He would wake up in a cold sweat, plagued by images of blood and sounds of thunder. The memory of it all made him sick. He couldn't hold himself together.

He raced into his hut's bathroom and vomited into a bucket. He trembled, quivering with chills scratching at his skin. His eyes flickered at the slightest creaks and groans of the nighttime atmosphere, each one sounding like an explosion going off in his ears. He could recall the ringing in his head from…

He clenched his eyes shut and curled up on the floor, eyes dripping with tears. "Miriam…I'm so sorry. I'm…" He covered his eyes and shuddered. "I-I'm so…"

"It never gets easy, you know."

Giles shot up onto his knees. Quickly wiping his eyes, he turned and saw someone walking into his bathroom. A candle burned to life, revealing Marie in the light. She was dressed in a slick, dark green jacket and black pants.

"M-Marie…?" He relaxed and sat back down, wiping his eyes. "How long were you…?"

"I've been keeping an eye on you, obviously." She approached and sat down in front of him, setting the candle off to the side. "Nightmares?"

Giles sighed and hung his head. "Nightmares."

"I figured." She closed her eyes. "Don't let it get to you."

"You weren't there. I…I screwed up." He covered his face, weeping into his hands. "I should've kept an eye on her. I should've scouted the area better. Had I known that…monster was nearby, I would've evacuated everyone out sooner. I just never expected for Miriam to…"

Marie sighed. "She chose her fate a long time ago, Giles. No one could've stopped her."

"I could've. I definitely could've." He looked down at his tear-stained hands. "If I had just kept an eye on her, I…" He sighed and turned away. "I'm a failure. I don't deserve to be a Greenwood. Much less a Nature Spirit."

Marie glared. "Miriam threw her life away for revenge. That's not your fault. She should've known better than to fight the Roar of the Wastes. She never stood a chance. But your actions saved everyone else on your squad. You prevented far more bloodshed holding that monster off."

Giles glared. "Even so, what good am I if I can't save one person? Someone who was put under my care? I was supposed to be their squad leader, their role model, and I made such a careless mistake. I'm ashamed to call myself a Forester—"

"Sacred Law Number 2: A Forester never goes out on their own." Marie patted his shoulder. "Miriam made her own choice. She took the path of revenge, and she led herself to a senseless death."

"…There's nothing senseless about death."

She sighed. "Perhaps not. Maybe I just view lives differently than most others." She glared off to the side. "The world's a cruel place. Life can be snuffed out in the most unexpected ways."

Giles stared at the floor in a moment of silence, his mind swimming with doubts, before lifting his gaze to his mentor. "What did you mean about this never getting easier? Have…you killed before?"

"…" Marie sighed. "It's a bit more complicated than that. I had no interest in joining the Foresters, but Jason wanted to give me a second chance." She scoffed. "Second chances."

"Huh?"

"I don't deserve such generosity. This world is governed by the unruly and the restless, aiming to plunge the land into chaos and reap the rewards from the ashes. This whole operation Jason has going on is just him crying out in anger. Every single Forester is angry about something, and we all came together to voice our frustration. This isn't just some crusade for peace. We're all just kids. Angry, angry kids who feel cheated and scorned. We've all chosen our destinies, some tied by vengeance and others tied by blood. It's not easy removing yourself from that path. I…don't deserve a second chance."

"…I think you do."

She scoffed. "You don't know anything about me."

"The greatest puzzle left to solve." Giles relaxed his tight breathing and straightened up. "I believe Virdis can be healed."

"I'd much rather believe secret moon men than that farcical fairy tale."

"Hey, you'll thank me when they descend from the sky, but that's not the point. I believe the Foresters can do real good than just steal from the rich." Giles glared. "Maybe even unite the ten kingdoms."

Marie smirked. "Unite the ten kingdoms? Cute jest."

"I'm serious."

"Then you're an idiot. The ten kingdoms have been at war for two centuries, and the few alliances there are won't change the animosity we feel for each other. Wars, pillaging, deceit, prejudice; none of that will ever go away from society. It's exactly the reason Miriam lost her life: she, just like everyone else, is a slave to their own hatred. It can't be done."

"…Well, I guess I'll be the first to break from their chains."

She sighed. "You really are a crackpot."

"I can't allow another incident like Miriam's death happen again. Bad people like the Roar of the Wastes can't go unpunished. The Outlands, the warring times of the east, the blood feuds, all of it! Someone needs to put an end to them."

"It can't be done."

"Because no one was brave enough to ask the big questions." Giles scowled. "Even if it costs me my life, I want to heal this plague of animosity. That is why I joined the Foresters."

"…" Marie shook her head. "You're insane." She glared at the floor. "Just like him…"

"Him? Who?"

"…" She sighed and stood up. "You're still naïve, Giles. If you want to do some good for this world, words alone won't cut it. Actions speak louder."

He glared. "What are you saying?"

"Keeping working hard and getting stronger. Avenge Miriam's death by acting upon your ambition." She glared back at him. "Your ideal world will never exist without the ambition to exceed."

"…" Giles stood up and nodded. "I promise, Marie. Someday, you'll see the hope I envision for Virdis. I know in my heart it can be healed."

"Heh. I'll believe it when I see it." She stepped out of the bathroom, whispering, "My stupid, unyielding disciple."

"He hasn't left his hut in weeks?"

"I'm getting kind of worried."

Newcomer Woodland Rangers, Fabrice and Enora, stood outside the hut of Giles Grove. The cryptic Heatmor seemed to disappear off the face of the region a few weeks ago. It had been a few months since Miriam's death, and how Giles seemed to be hulling himself up in his hut. He had to have his food delivered once he stopped coming to the mess hall.

Enora groaned. "This is stupid. Isn't he supposed to be proctoring your Greenwood test? He's been flaking out of his responsibilities."

Fabrice frowned. "Give him some slack. Miriam's death hit him hard."

She sighed and covered her face. "Right, right. Sorry, I didn't mean—"

He patted her back. "I know what you mean. Still, you're right. This is unhealthy, even for him." He knocked on the door and softly yelled, "Giles, are you in there? Can we come in? It's Fabrice and Enora."

No answer.

Enora rolled her eyes. "Here, let me show you how to get someone's attention." She spun around, raised her hindlegs, and kicked the door inward. "Like that!"

Fabrice raised his brow. "Excessive."

"That's how my dad does it when he's hunting criminals."

"You come from a rather aggressive family, you know that?"

"As I've been told. Shall we?"

The duo stepped inside the hut, which was strangely free of bad odors and any sort of unsightly mess they were dreadfully expecting. For a recluse, at least Giles didn't skip out on personal hygiene. Though, it was also eerily quiet.

They stepped further into the hut where they finally noticed the flickering candlelight in the back being obscured by a blanket hanging like a curtain around a desk. They approached the makeshift curtain and pulled it back, revealing a…well, rather normal sight. Or as normal as they've come to expect from Giles.

The Heatmor was hunched over his writing desk with multiple books open around him and several sheets of parchment penned with his scribbly handwriting. He muttered incoherent words that didn't sound like English or anything other language the duo heard. Either he was muttering nonsense, or he spent the last few weeks developing his own personal language. They wouldn't be surprised by the second option.

"Uh, Giles?" Enora called out hesitantly.

This jolted Giles out of whatever trance he put himself in. "Huh? What?! Who's there?!" He turned around and smiled. "Oh, it's you two. What can I do for you on this fine morning?"

"It's…the afternoon," Fabrice corrected.

"It…is?"

Enora glared. "Just out of curiosity, do you know what day it is?"

"I'm…going to go with Wednesday?"

"It's Thursday."

"Oh, that's not so bad—"

"Three weeks after you locked yourself up."

"…" His eyes widened. "Has it seriously been three weeks? Shit, I…really let the time slip away from me."

Fabrice patted his shoulder. "Giles, we agreed you needed some space after what happened with Miriam, but we're both really worried about you. You didn't even know how much time passed."

Enora nodded. "Seriously, even though you're our superior, we can lend an ear if you want to talk about—"

"I really appreciate your concern, but—" Giles gently pushed the two back and smiled. "That's not actually why I've been cooped up for so long. Apparently."

The partners looked at each other in confusion, then back to him. "It isn't?" they asked.

"I've…been concocting a new conspiracy I've uncovered."

Enora winced. "Not again."

Fabrice laughed awkwardly. "Oh, is that all? My, you're really dedicated to your…craft. What's it about?"

"Please don't encourage this," Enora grumbled.

Fortunately for the Glaceon, Giles shook his head and said, "Sorry, but I'm keeping this one under wraps. I want to get this one right before I start spouting off about it. I mean, can you imagine if I cobbled together some half-baked story riddled with nonsense?"

"Heh, yeah, really something," Fabrice mumbled, trying his best to stay supportive.

Enora sighed and showed a relieved smile. "Well, we're just glad you're alright. Just…promise us you'll come out of your hut more. I mean, we're glad you've been taking care of yourself and all, but you really could use some sunlight."

"Heh, good point. I'll just wrap this up, and I can go over Fabrice's heist details." He laughed. "Stealing a priceless vase from the emperor? You are one bold Marshtomp, my friend."

Fabrice smiled. "I can be daring when I want to."

Enora stepped back. "Glad you're feeling better, Giles. How about you join us for dinner later?"

"I'd be delighted, thank you."

"Take care, then," Fabrice said as he and Enora left his hut. Enora awkwardly slammed the door shut due to the lock that was mysteriously broken off.

Giles let out the breath he was holding and turned back to his scribbles. "Guess I'll need to manage my time better. I can't have everyone worrying over me." He glared. "And I don't want anyone getting too close to my notes. Not until I find out what this all means."

He moved a sheet away, revealing he had been doing research onto the Roar of the Wastes. However, that's not where his story ends. No, by digging his way to the truth on his subordinate's killer and putting an end to his monstrous reign…

Giles would forever find himself lost in a canyon of knowledge he'll never recover from learning.

Sid and Rusty stared at Valentine in silence, absorbing the Spinda's theory regarding the departure of their dear teammate. For a while year, they attributed the Heatmor's death to a case of circumstance and unfortunate timing. They were so caught up in their investigation into the Dukes of Buzzard that they never considered anything more than what was witnessed.

"I…don't understand," Sid admitted. "You think Giles wasn't murdered by Pasco's gang?"

Valentine scratched his chin. "Well, based on what we walked in on, it's safe to say they were the ones that ended his life. There's no denying that." He glared. "But that's not the issue. They somehow caught and restrained Giles. We were so shocked and busy at the time that we didn't pursue his death further. But now that I've been researching his notes and really thinking about it, it's hard to imagine Giles could've been outdone by low-level thugs."

Sid frowned. "Val, I miss Giles as well, but you're starting to sound like him. This sounds like one of his conspiracies."

"Guess I've been living his life too much through words."

"Besides, that Marko guy or whatever said as much that they captured Giles and tortured him during the mission."

Valentine glared. "That part also baffles me. Why were they torturing him?"

"For fun, I guess?"

"Maybe, but…" He closed his eyes for a moment. "This is going to sound crazy, but what if it had something to do with Giles' research?"

Her eyes widened. "His research?"

"Think about it. Through Giles, we found out about the Dukes, which led us back to Last Autumn. Pasco's gang was helping with the production of Wraith. Someone like Giles would be a major liability depending on how much he knew. He knew more about Last Autumn than any of us."

"But would Pasco's gang have known about that?"

"Don't forget Giles went ahead of us to stake out their hideout. There was a few hours in-between when he left and when we found him. If we assume they didn't capture him, what if it was someone else? Someone who knew about Giles?"

Sid glanced down at Rusty. "But there's no way anyone would've suspected Giles meeting up at their hideout."

"…Do you remember who exactly found out about Pasco's hideout?"

Her eyes widened. "Wait…"

"Giles was the one who got to the information first. He was our information specialist. So, depending on who he got the information from, either it was a set up or someone found out through his informant. If this is the case, we have an unknown assailant mixed in who theoretically could keep up with Giles in a fight and even restrain him. That leaves the next few hours to torture him and see just what he knew. Everything he knew about Last Autumn."

"…" Sid staggered into a wall and held her forehead. "This…This is messed up."

He sighed. "It's only my hypothesis. There's too many unknowns in the mix."

"But then why didn't Mario and his goons tell us about this unknown assailant? Marie got all the information she could out of them. R-Right?"

"That part, I'm unsure of. Still, based on their intentions, they didn't come here to steal Giles' research. They just had a vendetta against Eadwulf." Valentine glared. "It's almost like Giles wasn't on the forefront of their minds. They were just a gang hired by Last Autumn's hired help. They had no personal connection to Giles, therefore no clear motive for murdering him beyond…well, fun, as you put it."

"…" Sid frowned. "You're scaring me, Val."

"I'm scaring myself, if we're being honest."

"Hmm?" Valentine raised his brow as Sid lifted Rusty to her ear. After a moment, she nodded and said, "Rusty asked why Giles only mentioned Althalos and not his attacker."

"Hmm…" Valentine crossed his arms. "Perhaps Giles didn't know the name of his attacker, or rather we didn't know the name of his attacker. Althalos eventually led us to tracking down the Dukes of Buzzard, which led to discovering Last Autumn's revival. Perhaps he figured it was more important finding that connection than searching for an unknown suspect. But of course—"

"It's just a hypothesis," Sid finished with a groan. "Yeah, I know."

Valentine glared. "We may have to consult with Blitz and Eadwulf over this to get their opinions. I don't know why—"

"—but I think we're on the verge of learning some terrible secrets about Virdis."

Bored from sitting in her hut all day, Marie broke her house arrest (a repeat offense as of late) and decided to stroll about the fort. Little did she expect Valentine and Sid to be in deep discussion about her former student and, dare she say, dear friend who passed on due to unforeseen tragedy.

She sat against the walls, hugging her knees to her chest, trying to fight back the tears welling up inside. She didn't cry during his funeral. She didn't cry when she first heard the news. She hadn't cried since his passing. She had to stay strong for everyone. She had to keep her iron will strong for everyone.

She had to bury the past to stay strong.

She covered her eyes and shuddered. "Giles…you stupid, unyielding student of mine. Why are you always getting yourself into trouble?"

"Marie?" She jerked back and found Adenine looming over her with a concerned expression. "What are ya doin' squattin' over here?"

"O-Oh, Addy. I…" She wiped her eyes and stood up. "Sorry, I was just…um, I mean…" She leaned against the wall and forced a flirtatious smile. "How are you doing, hon?"

"…" Adenine smiled. "Ya're thinkin' about Giles, aren't ya?"

She winced. "That obvious?"

"Well, Ah was also eavesdroppin' when Ah saw ya eavesdroppin'. Want to see what the noise was about. Um, please don't tell anyone Ah was…"

Marie sighed. "I won't, I promise." She rubbed her nape and looked away. "Okay, yeah. Maybe a little. It's stupid, I know."

"Not the way Ah see it." Adenine took her hand and pulled her along. "Ya look like ya could use some lunch. Let's sit and talk. It'll do ya some good."

"…" Marie smiled. "You're a good friend, Adenine. Thanks."

About Three Years Ago…

"M-Me? A Nature Spirit?"

Giles had been invited into Jason's hut for a private announcement, and it was one the Heatmor hadn't expected. Ever since his failure months ago, he had been stepping up in his role as a Greenwood. He took on whatever job was needed without question and help guide the rookies under his care. He even oversaw the start of new Greenwoods such as Fabrice, guiding them to become their best selves.

The idea of becoming a Nature Spirit slipped from his mind since gearing his focus onto his responsibilities and what little private work he could in his free time. But this…

Jason nodded. "Specially recommended by the Nature Spirits themselves."

"You can thank me for that." Giles gasped as Marie stepped out from the shadows. In addition to her dark green and black uniform, she came equipped with two short swords sheathed into wooden scabbards at her waist. "Though I have the authority to recommend you myself, I figured getting the approval of the others would help your case. Valentine was especially keen on seeing you move up the ranks."

Giles smiled. "Marie, I…thank you. This means a lot."

She smirked. "Well, you always said you wanted to travel more, and I figured this would do you some good instead of staying cooped up in your room."

Jason leaned forward on his desk. "However, you understand this position isn't earned lightly. As you know, you'll be partaking in a month-long retreat to undergo special training. It'll be far more brutal than anything we've put you through. It can feel discouraging at times, but you were chosen because we believe you have the guts to take on the worse."

Giles saluted. "I graciously accept this offer, sir! You won't regret your decision!"

"I'm sure I won't." Jason stood out of his seat and walked around. "You leave first thing in the morning. Pack your belongings, say your goodbyes, and be prepared to leave at the crack of dawn." He nodded over at Marie. "I would accompany you myself, but I have some prior engagements to attend to. Marie will be showing you the way after you reach the drop off point."

Giles nodded. "Thank you very much, sir."

Jason walked past him, patting his shoulder on the way out. "Try not to overexert yourself, alright? I'm not jesting about the difficultly." He stepped out of his hut, leaving the Heatmor and Mawile to themselves.

Giles bounced on his toes and laughed. "A Nature Spirit. Me! Once I pass, I'll have free reign to go on my own missions. Ha, this is awesome!"

Marie approached him and smiled. "Just so you know, I didn't give this to you just because you're my student. I do genuinely believe you have the skill. It just needs to be honed a bit."

"I trust your judgment, Marie." Giles frowned. "Speaking of, since you've gone through the same training, perhaps you could give me some pointers?"

She smirked. "[Not a devil's chance, idiot.]"

He groaned. "That's a no, isn't it?"

"Sorry, but there's no point in the training if I just tell you all the right answers."

He crossed his arms and hummed aloud. "Is that a fact? Why would you phrase it like that if this is just training? It's almost like you're hiding some other key elements of the retreat—"

She flicked him in the snout. "No conspiracy work for you, you scatterbrained loon. I know you well enough not to give even vague hints."

He laughed. "Fair. Still, I really appreciate you giving me this chance."

She smiled to herself and walked past him. "Well, perhaps I'm curious to see what you'll turn up with all your newfound freedom. It's…kind of exciting."

Giles and Marie left the Forbidden Forest, being carted along by Godfrey in his wagon. Giles was told to pack light as food would be provided during the retreat. He brought along some snacks for the road as their destination was a couple weeks away. He rummaged through his belongings while Marie coolly reclined against the walls of the cart.

"If I had to give you one piece of information on your training, you'll be taught how to use Pandora's grappler." Marie opened one eye and snickered. "Word of advice, until you get comfortable using it, try not to aim at your face by mistake. You won't want that cable launching into your eye."

Giles chuckled. "Well, that doesn't tell me much of this supposed Hell you all are taking me to, but I appreciate the advice."

"As you should." Marie yawned, sliding her back all the way to the floor so she could gaze at the clouds. "Though, this part's boring since it takes a while to get there. No friends to talk to, and no potential shenanigans to get involved in."

"…You know, you rarely flirt with me," Giles pointed out.

She lifted her head and smirked. "Jealous?"

He laughed. "Not that I'm complaining. You're a few years younger than me. I'd be more comfortable courting someone closer to my age."

"Hmph. Your loss." She folded her arms behind her head and sighed. "Well, once I started taking you on as my student, I wanted to keep things professional. I'll glad peek on everyone else." She snickered. "Pandora doesn't really care. That girl has her head in smoke clouds and gears. I can do all the staring I want."

"You are shameless, you know that?"

"I've been told."

"Are you just interested in having a good time, or do you have any serious investment in finding a life partner?"

"…" Marie closed her eyes and sighed through her nose. "Honestly, I don't know what I want. Living in the moment seems like the way to go. I don't really care if it's a man or woman. Just…someone to keep me company."

"Have you ever been in a relationship before?"

"…Once. It didn't really mean anything. Just puppy love or whatever."

Giles frowned. "Doesn't sound like nothing."

She turned onto her side. "Well, maybe it could've been serious, but…that's all in the past." She held onto silence for a moment before turning around and facing Giles. "Let me give you some advice, Giles: the past is meant to stay buried. No good ever comes from digging it up."

He glared. "What brought this on?"

"I'm aware of what you've been doing lately. Your little rabbit hole searching for information on the Roar of the Wastes."

"…"

"I think you should just put it to rest. Getting involved in that kind of stuff leads to trouble. I don't know what you THINK you know, but better to stop while you can."

"…Do you have secrets, Marie?"

She sat up and sighed. "Several. Ones I don't want anyone to know." She glared over the cart. "Or at least ones I'm not comfortable talking about."

"You can tell me."

"Tch. That's not the point. Giles, there's a lot about me you don't know about." She frowned at the floor. "There's some things about me I'm ashamed of. Some things I feel like I need to atone for. I feel like a devil born again."

"You're not a devil."

"You don't really know a person until the mask slips off. Everyone wears masks."

He shook his head. "Not me. I'm open about who I am."

"You still keep secrets."

"Secrets that I want to reveal once I'm confident in my findings."

"After all the ridiculous stuff you claim—"

"But this? This requires absolute proof." Giles sighed. "I know you don't think highly of yourself, Marie, but I know you're a good person. Jason seems to trust you."

She shook her head. "The depths of his trust in me are greatly exaggerated."

"It's still trust."

She covered her eyes and groaned. "You are so naïve."

He grinned. "And that's who I am."

"…" She dropped her hands into her lap and sighed. "You once told me I deserved a second chance. If that's so, then how do you propose I earn it?"

He shrugged. "Just be your best you. Don't make the same mistakes. Exercise kindness. Stop feeling so down about yourself. You are the only one who can decide if you deserve redemption or not. Even if the rest of the world is against you, you have to make the effort to change and do better."

"…" She closed her eyes. "Those words are familiar to me. Someone close to me said something similar when I was in a dark point of my life." She sighed and leaned her head back. "If you think so, maybe I'll try and earn that second chance."

Giles grinned. "You'll definitely earn it. I swear!"

"Heh. I'm holding you to that."

Marie and Adenine grabbed a table outside the mess hall, enjoying yet another bowl of Lambert's famous fruit slop. A delicious blend of berries slowly losing their taste after eating it several times a week. There was talk of something else going on the menu tonight, so they hoped for the best.

Marie slurped up some slop, letting it explore across her tongue for a bit. "You know, I always revel in that explosion of flavor it hits you with, but now it feels—"

"Bland?" Adenine guessed.

"Not the kind of thing I'd normally say about fruit." Marie swirled the colorful concoction with her spoon as she examined the Kecleon closely. "Though, speaking of which, you look like you're doing better."

Adenine blushed, scratching at her nape. "Oh, uh…thank ya."

"Have you tried reaching out to Erasmus?"

"Ah'm…nervous, actually." She tapped her fingers together. "Last time was a sore spot for everyone, and Ah'm not sure what Ah should say to him. Besides, he's probably more worried about his brother than me."

Marie reached over and patted her hand. "Hon, don't sell yourself short. I'm sure he's just as worried over you. I think he would appreciate an update on how you're feeling."

She frowned. "Even if it's from someone in league with the people who allegedly poisoned his brother?"

"I promise you, everyone's doing everything they can to clear up that noise. Have a little faith."

"Ah suppose." Adenine picked at her food for a moment, then asked, "So, how are ya feelin'?"

Marie glared. "Rotten, I suppose."

"Giles meant that much to ya?"

"He reminds me too much of Melissa."

Her eyes widened. "Really?"

"Optimistic. Naïve. Always thinking of others first." Marie sighed. "The only difference is in how I feel about them. Giles, I saw as my student. Melissa…I feel like I have to protect her."

Adenine frowned. "Ya have been actin' different around her since the party. Ya…haven't been flirtin' with her. Or as strongly, at least."

"She went through a traumatizing experience. I don't want to remind her of it, even if it's just playful teasing." She closed her eyes. "And yet, despite all that, Melissa's still striving to get stronger. That girl never stops improving. Another trait she shares with Giles. From where she started, she's moving up the ranks faster than anyone. And she's done things I never dreamed of imagining. Fighting a gang leader, taking on bounty hunters on her own, leading missions, and inspiring change for the Foresters. She's…changing us, little by little."

Adenine smiled. "Yah. She has made a mighty impact on us since she arrived."

"…She and Giles would've gotten along had he survived his mission. Those two together, they could've saved Virdis from itself yesterday." She groaned. "I still haven't told her I was a Nature Spirit Scout."

"But ya won't because—"

"The past needs to stay buried."

Adenine sighed. "Why are ya so insistent about forgetting yer own past?"

"It's just how I am. It happened, and now it's over." She gingerly rubbed her eye. "There's no point in dredging up old memories."

"But Melissa looks up to ya. Ah'm sure she'd love to learn more about ya."

The Mawile smiled bitterly. "If she knew who I really was, she'd want nothing to do with me. Who I was, why my leg's all banged up, and…all the terrible things I still am deep inside."

"…" Adenine patted her hand. "Marie, Ah can't speak to the horrors ya see yer past as, but Ah know a thin' or two about mistakes. Even if thin's look so bad that ya feel like redemption is a dream and a half, the love of another keeps us on the right path. That's…how Ah felt when Ah ran away from home."

"…" Marie closed her eyes. "Even not knowing the truth, do you think I deserve a second chance?"

"Most people deserve second chances. We're all Pokémon. We all make mistakes."

She smirked. "Even Darby?"

"Ah said second chances. Whatever tomfoolery was done raising him, he exhausted well over a hundred chances."

Marie chuckled. "Damn right." She sighed and looked down at her food. "Still, I…want to give it some time before I tell Melissa the truth. I'm just worried about her getting too close to me."

Adenine patted her arm. "Whatever secrets you have, I'm sure she'll understand."

Marie looked away, holding a sad glint in her eye. Even if it sounds like a dream and a half.

17th Red Ash Moon, 908, Before Sunrise

Roscoe leaned against the wagon and yawned as his guards packed up the camping supplies for the day. They would be reaching the Wick Kingdom by the afternoon, so they were getting an early head start with the sun barely peeking over the horizon. No disturbances as of yet, and the Verde king was growing impatient with the competency of his guards.

Well, there's no getting around it anymore. I'll just have to ask Wilkins for assistance to Terrowin. Perhaps he can convince these seven to leave me be. He glared at the ground. Come to think of it, I've been out of the loop for a while. I know he brought together the old group, but he still hasn't told me how the Wraith will help find an heir. There's still so much to prepare for before the selection process.

Thinking of the heir system brought up memories of Melissa in her youth, the young and bright-eyed princess who had grand ambitions to see the prosperity of her kingdom. Roscoe couldn't deny her potential even at such a young age. She could've made a fine queen in her own time.

He sighed to himself. But I couldn't let her become an heir in good conscience. Who knows what kind of person she would've become if she was promised that kind of authority? I just…I know the plan was to produce an heir from the Penworth family, but…

He clenched his fist, withholding the growl rumbling in his throat.

I didn't count on being a father.

"Your Majesty?" Roscoe snapped out of his daze and turned to the Simipour knight saluting him. "We've finished packing the supplies. We're ready to make the final stretch to the capital."

"O-Oh. Uh, right." Roscoe straightened up and smoothed out his coat. "Very well, then. We leave for the Wick capital now."

The Simipour whistled to the four other knights, and they gathered around the carriage. Two knights pulled themselves onto their Rapidash steeds, two more clung to the sides of the carriage, and the Simipour hopped onto his perch above.

Roscoe opened the door and stuck one foot in, but stopped. His large ears twitched to a rustling in a nearby bush. Listening closely, he could hear a tiny voice squeaking out from the bush. It sounded small and frail.

"Huh…" He closed the door and approached the bush.

The Simipour knight leaned over the side. "Your Majesty? What are you doing?"

"At ease," he said. "I think there is a lost child hiding over here. One of you grab the food in case they are hungry." The knights hanging off the side stepped off and went to retrieve the food.

Roscoe approached the bush cautiously, keeping one hand on his rapier. He dropped to one knee and pushed through the leaves. "Hello? Is everything okay?" he asked gently. "It's okay, you do not need to be afraid. We are just here to help."

He reached deeper into the bush, expecting to find a trembling creature nestled inside the leaves. To his surprise, his hand brushed against something…prickly. It didn't feel like fur or skin, and it didn't seem to be a Grass-Type Pokémon because it wasn't reacting to his touch. It could've been the branches, but he was certain he heard someone inside the bush.

Letting go of his sword, he pulled the top of the bush apart. "Hey, are you—"

His blood turned ice cold.

He jumped back onto his feet, staggering away from the bush with one hand gripped over his heart. The heat drained from his face, and his teeth clenched together while his eyes shrunk back. "Oh…no, no, no, no! Not that!"

"Your Majesty?" He flicked his head back as his knights approached him, one carrying the provisions. "Did you find the lost child? Where are they?"

"I…"

Simipour frowned at his king. "Your Majesty, you look perturbed. Is something the matter? Does the child need medical aid?"

"R-Run…"

"Huh?"

"R-Run. Now. All of you…"

Simipour glared, but was reaching for his sword. "You Majesty, tell us what's wrong—"

The bush rustled. Roscoe snapped his eyes back onto it as something rolled out into the open. While he looked upon the sight in abject horror, his knights stared at it in confusion.

"Is…Is that a tumbleweed?"