Pages 4 and 5 are now combined!

The Tale of Twin Hearts

(Chapter 1)

Page 4

"Loudred! LOUDRED!"

Entering the bottom floor of the Guild after escaping from that nightmare of a dungeon, Chatot called out with an unbelievably loud voice. Around the left corner of the room, a Loudred rushed over to us with an expression that he was prepared for anything.

"Chatot, I'm here! What's going on?"

"Loudred, I need you to go get Chimecho immediately!"

"Wha-? did something happen?"

Stepping to the side, Chatot points to Pumpkin as Miya lays him on the floor. Although barely a scratch on him, Pumpkin was unconscious and shaking uncontrollablly. His expression? There was none. It looked as if he had seen death face to face and honestly, it wasn't too far off from the truth.

"I'll explain what happened in a moment, for now, I need you to get Chimecho as soon as possible."

"Roger that! CHIME! WE NEED YOU OVER HERE!-"

"Squawk! That's not what I meant! I asked you to go get Chimecho, not blow our ears out!"

"Sorry! To be honest with ya, I don't know where Chime is. The last time I saw her, she was-"

"Right here!" A voice said as a Pokemon came around from the opposite corner of the room. Right on cue, a Chimecho floated over to us with a sincere smile on her face. She was quite tall, which only added to her graceful demeanor.

"Is everything alright? I was preparing something special for dinner since we just recruited two new members to the guild."

Once again, Chatot gestures toward Pumpkin. Just watching him lay there on the ground, shaking like that, all I get was this...knot...in my stomach. It was like a mix between sorrow and guilt and it was not a pleasant feeling. I wish I could've been able to help him better when he was being pinned down by that bully-of-a-Pokemon, but how? If I didn't save the hostage, who turned out to be my childhood friend, then...how would that have made me look? All of this was too much…

"My word! What happened to him? And who is he? I don't remember him being part of the Guild," Chimecho said as she floated over to him and gently touched his face.

"This is Pumpkin, one of the five new recruits. He was attacked by a monstrous Pokemon that I...I...I can't even fully describe. fortunately, he was left with just a cut on his face. I don't want to think about what would have happened if that Pokemon went through with his attack.

"Goodness...Wait, did you say five?"

"Yes. five."

"Huh!? Chatot, why didn't ya tell us about this!?" Loudred fussed.

Annoyed, Chatot glared at him, which was enough for him to look away nervously.

"They were last-second additions. I thought they were salespokemon or another one of those soliciting groups."

"Chatot, you said that about the other two Pokemon that just joined."

"I know! I know. It's just…how often do you see anyone joining nowadays? It's hard not to."

"Well, I'll just have to add a few more plates then," She said, throwing a bit of sass into it as she makes her way to Pumpkin. Carefully, she examined him as he continued laying on the ground. "Odd, there's barely a scratch on you..."

"N-No..." Pumpkin mumbled in his unconscious state, shaking even more. Upon hearing him, Chimecho quickly backed away from him, surprised.

"W-What? Is he having a Nightmare? Hold on, let me try something," With a quick shake of her head, the sound of a bell filled the room. Pumpkin's body began glowing and just as quickly as it appeared, the glow dissipated as a small burst of light from his body. Immediately, Pumpkin leaped up from the ground, breathing heavily. Static riddled his body as he stood defensively, looking around cautiously. Quickly, Miya runs up to him.

Wait, wait! Pumpkin! It's ok! It's alright! You're safe, we're back at the guild.

"W...What? We're...We're back at the guild?" Looking around, Pumpkin noticed everyone looking at him warily. Embarrassed, the static around his body disappeared as he looked around some more. "How did we get back?"

"Chatot helped us escape and we carried you back. When we got here, you were unconscious and shaking pretty badly."

"...What about the Mightyena?"

"I headbutted him into a Fissure in the ground when he wasn't looking. I don't think we'll be seeing him again"

Looking to the ground, Pumpkin shook his head slowly as he touch his face. "All I remember was him cutting my cheek with his fangs and saying awful stuff. After that, a saw a light before everything slowly faded away. I can't believe I was so useless back there...I'm so sorry..."

Miya looked at him shocked. "Why would you say that? If anything I'm the one who should be sorry. I wasn't able to stop him. If only I was stronger-

"No, no. You shouldn't be sorry at all. You were brave, braver than me. A little bit of strength wouldn't have changed the fact that I wasn't strong enough to protect myself. What if you weren't there? Then what?

"He's right, Miya. Even as a team, if he was trapped alone, what could you have done," I said, agreeing with his statement. Miya looked away from him. She knew he was right. There was little any of us could have done in that situation and for her to throw herself into that monster? That took guts. There's no taking away from that.

Sighing, Miya nodded. "Yeah, I guess you're right. But If I see either one of you in trouble, Don't expect me to stand there and let either one of you take the hit. We're a team and a team helps each other out, even in deadly situations.

"Spoken like a true Leader," Chatot said, smiling proudly. "Truly, all of you did an excellent good job today, exceeding my expectations. No one here should feel bad about what happened. After all, you three managed to save this Ralts here. You all deserve a bit of rest. Loudred, please escort them to the vacant room next to the new duo's dorm and add a few more beds while you're at it for them to sleep in. Chimecho, do you mind letting the Guildmaster we arrived safely? I'm going to go take a walk for a moment."

"Right away, Sir," They both said simultaneously.

Before entering the hallway, Chimecho stopped, suddenly remembering something. "Oh, and Chatot, I just got word that the new recruits, the duo, just finished retrieving the pearl for Spoink, in case you wanted to meet them before their tour tomorrow.

"Thank you, Chimecho, I'll be sure to speak to them."

As everyone left for their respective places, Lave and I stayed in the main room. As we stood there, Lave cleared his throat, getting my attention as I was apparently staring at him. As soon as I finally realized, he chuckled nervously.

"Heh, Liloxi. I know you're just as excited to see me as I am to see you, but uh...you do realize you're still carrying me, right?"

"Oh! Right! My bad," I said, Immediately I put him down. It was hard not to be as speechless as I was. To think, after 5 years long years, My best friend was in front of me again.
To give a little bit of context here, Lave and I had been friends since we were born really. It's hard to believe, but him and I were actually born only hours apart, him being a bit older, but completely different parents of course. His parents were both Gardevoirs, though his father died of an accident during a mission he was on, leaving just him and his mother. I on the other hand still have both of my parents, but my father just up and left a few weeks before I was born so I never got to see him.
Our mothers knew each other for years and together they understood each other's hardships as they raised both Queen and I. But one day, a strange Pokemon visited our home. I don't fully remember what happened since my memory is kinda fuzzy, but I do remember holding out my paw out towards this Pokemon, then a blinding flash of light. Funny enough, it was similar to the one during the mission.
Before we could figure out what happened, both my mother and his mother decided to move us far from each other as possible. Why? I don't know and I still don't down to this day. All I know it was the saddest day of my life. Now that he was suddenly in front of me again, what was there to say? It was unbelievable. looking at him, I noticed he was taller; now my height. Of course, I couldn't see his eyes, but his smile was always visible. However, what struck me as odd was the fact that he of all Pokemon was the hostage. How did he get there?

Interrupting my thoughts, Lave snapped his fingers in front of my face. "Hey, Liloxi? You're doing it again."

Realizing that I was staring at him again, I shook my head, laughing nervously. Nothing could be more embarrassing.

"Sorry about that again, I honestly don't know what to say."

"Well, for starters, you can at least give me a hug, it's been years!"

Laughing, we hugged each other. Hearing his voice like this was interesting. It was a bit deeper than what I remembered, but we're older. What do ya expect?

"So, What are you doing here of all places?"

"I was going to ask you the same thing since we had to rescue you from that thing," I said, scratching my head.

"Not sure. One moment I'm visiting the town in the area, the next moment, I'm getting kidnapped by that Mightyena. I'm not sure why he decided to kidnap me of all Pokemon, but I really appreciate you guys getting me out of that bind.

"Well, I'm glad we took that mission. Who would have thought it would have been you tied to that tree!"

"Heh, yeah. Anyways, now that I'm here, I guess I can stay for a while before I head back out to continue exploring. Meanwhile, we can catch up and enjoy ourselves.

"Wait, you're leaving in a few days?"

"Well, yeah! I'm an explorer. I'm not exactly affiliated with anyone, but I do stick around some of the towns before heading out again."

"Oh, that's...kinda unfortunate…" I said, unable to hide the disappointment in my voice.

I frowned. After all this time, not seeing him for so long and he wanted to up and leave in a matter of days? Seeing my face, Lave stood next to me and puts an arm around my neck. "Come on, Liloxi. Cheer up! After all these years, we finally get to see each other again! We also get to spend some time together, just the two of us! We can make the best of it! How does that sound?

Looking at his cheerful smile, I couldn't help but smile back. "Heh, I guess you're right. What did you have in mind?"

"Well, I know today we probably aren't going anywhere so how about we head to the beach tomorrow morning? I heard it's actually quite nice, especially when the sun rises."

"Wait, You...actually like going near water?"

"Of course! What? You didn't think I would?"

"It's just, you know...how you get around water and all..."

"Liloxi, that was years ago. I've grown out of it. Come oooon, it'll be fun!"

"Well, if you're sure about it, why not?" I said, finally agreeing

"Perfect. For now, I'm going to go to the Square and restock some items. While I'm there, I'll leave you and the others a little something at Kangaskhan's Storage for helping me out. It's the least I can do.

"Heh, thanks. I'ma go head to the room and check on the others."

"Alright, sounds good. I'll be back later in time for dinner."

"Cool."

Just as I began heading to the room, Lave calls out to me.

"Oh and Liloxi, one more thing..."

"Hmm? OH!"

Before I could fully turn around, I was met with a hug so sudden, I nearly fell over. The way he hugged me, it was as if I could feel his emotions (and no, he definitely wasn't using any ability on me). He hugged me tight, and as surprising as it was, I couldn't help but hug him back just as much.

Right before he broke the hug, he whispered: "It's been so long. I'm so glad to see you again, Lilo."

Hearing him say that made my day. We spent half of our lives without each other, nothing in the world could have changed how happy I felt. It was good to see him again.

Regaining his composure, he smiled as he headed for the exit.

"See you before dinner!"

[Later that night in our room...]

"...Hey guys...did that mission seem a bit odd to you?"

"What do you mean?" I said lying on my back in my makeshift bed. Despite how it looked, it was surprisingly soft. The hay used to make it must've been fresh.

"Like, I've heard of dungeons before. There's usually many rooms and floors, but that place, it only had 1 room. Also, the Boss of that place was incredibly strong. Everything we were doing just bounced off of him. Not to mention, how did Chatot know to get us out of there? I know it's our first mission and all, but his timing was too perfect. It's all so weird...

"Honestly, I've been wondering some of those things myself. Maybe we should go talk to him."

"I'll go too," Pumpkin said getting up from his bed.

"What? Pumpkin, you went through a lot. No one would blame you if you wanted to stay here." She said, frowning. She clearly didn't like the idea. I wasn't sure if she was acting more like a concerned leader or a concerned mom. Regardless of which, Pumpkin was not taking no for an answer.

"Where you guys go, I go, despite how I feel about it. Besides, we ALL went through a lot today, not just me."

Miya studied him for a moment. "Are you sure?"

Taking a good look at him, it was obvious that mission did a number on him more than us, despite how confident he was. However, not willing to yield, he nodded in agreement to which Miya nodded back hesitantly. "A-Alright, let's go find Chatot."

Heading up to the first floor, we check around to see if Chatot was there, or at least still talking with the other recruits Chimecho mentioned, but no luck. In the room, there were only a few pokemon around. Some were standing around talking to their partners while others were sitting against the wall, catching their breath after coming back from a long mission. Desperate to get some kind of idea where Chatot could've been, I walked up to a Bidoof who was staring at a board with "Rescue" on it, picking out missions labeled "D" or "C". He was rather big for a Bidoof, but something told me he didn't act his size judging how hesitant he was choosing which mission to do next.

"Hey, excuse me-"

Surprised by our sudden approach, the Bidoof dropped the missions in his hands, scattering them all over the floor. Feeling sorry, I proceed to help him pick up the mission posters as he scrambles to get them.

"H-hi! O-oh goodness, thank you. I'm sorry 'bout that. I didn't know y'all were behind me. What can I do for you all?"

"We, uh, were looking for Chatot. Did you happen to see where he went?" Miya said on my behalf. At hearing it, Bidoof ears perked up.

"Oh, well, Chatot headed out of the Guild hours ago. Usually, he'd tell us that he'll be leaving somewhere, but not this time. He's probably just takin' a scroll. He'll be back later to eat. But uhhh, why do y'all need him? If ya don't mind me askin'..."

"We wanted to ask him about our first mission that we just went on. We recently joined the guild and-"

"Whaaat? You guys are also new to the guild? By golly, I thought there were only 2 other new recruits besides me! Well, although I've only been here for least than a year, I'd still like to welcome y'all to the guild!"

"Thanks, we appreciate it!" Miya said Smiling brightly.

"Of course! But now, if you three are new and just finished your first mission, I don't think he'll mind you meeting up with him. Though...I'm not sure where he'd be at this time."

"He's at the Beach," A pokemon said. Looking over, a Trio stood at the right corner of the room, leaning against the wall. Judging by their demeanor, they looked like veterans. Out of the three, a Weavile seemed to be the one who was speaking and probably in charge. If there's anything I know about Weaviles, it's the fact that they love gain of any kind. Whether it's money, items, fame, or an I.O.U., they'll seek it no matter what.

"He wanted me to tell anyone we were looking for him."

"Oh. Well, thanks!" Miya said, showing gratitude by waving at them. The Weavile scoffed before looking away. "I guess to the beach then, let's go! Also, thanks Bidoof for the help. It was nice to meet you."

"Oooh, it's no problem at all. If you ever need me, I'll be downstairs for dinner!"

"Will do!"

As we made our way to the beach, I realized how much time flew as I looked at the night sky. To be honest, if it wasn't for the light of the full moon, I probably would've fell down the set of stairs that lead to the beach without even knowing it.

It felt like we returned to the guild only a few moments ago. Although the mission was apparently a success, I couldn't help but feel defeated, especially after what happened to Pumpkin. Even now, I still question what kind of mission it was. Like, for us to botch it down to the core (literally) and have Chatot save us in the process, yet, call it a success? I needed answers. We needed answers.

Arriving at the beach, we stopped as we found Chatot standing on top of a large rock mound, facing the water as the moon's light shimmered over it. The ocean looked as still as it could be with waves reaching the shore in a calming motion; It was a pretty sight. Every so often, a Pokemon would jump out of the water and splash back in, making mesmerizing ripples in the water. The sight of it all would have been quite an enjoyable one, but the moment I saw Chatot's face, a feeling of concern fell over me. As the moonlight bathed him, his face showed no expression. His gaze was deep as he looked over the horizon; The wind gently blowing against his feathers. As I tried to speak up, something was preventing me, like some sort of Pressure. There was no way I was the only one feeling it. Though, As tough as it was, I knew this was our only opportunity to ask him privately without any interruptions. Nervously, shaking off the feeling, I stepped forward.

"Hey, Chatot! Sorry for intruding on your sightseeing, but Miya, Pumpkin, and I have something we want to ask you."

There was silence.

Confused, we looked at each other. Chatot didn't move his head nor show any sign of our presence. Frowning, followed by a shrug, Miya quickly signaled for us to leave, but I couldn't. I wouldn't. I wanted answers.

As Miya and Pumpkin grabbed my arm to try and drag me away, Chatot finally spoke.

"You three came to me about the mission, yes?"

"Yes, how did you know?"

"After a mission like that, I'd have questions too," He said, nodding as he kept his gaze fixed on the horizon. "However, there's not much for me to tell you except that mission was meant for you three from the very start."

"What? Wait, what do you mean 'Meant for us'? We just joined today." Miya said, stepping forward.

Chatot smiled sadly. "About a week from today, that very mission you completed was given to me inside of a letter by an old friend of mine, along with a map. As happy as I was to see him again, his face was grave as he handed me the letter. He told me that soon I would meet a very unusual trio, and when I do, hand them the letter. It didn't take much for me to know it was you three.

Surprised, we looked at each other.

What gave you that impression? "I questioned, scratching my head.

"He told me that one of you would be a very special Buneary, the one from his stories," Chatot said, looking back out into the ocean. Hearing it, both Pumpkin and Miya turned to me in awe.
"At first I was skeptical, but then I remember something else my friend told me: When you see the Ray of Light, Everything will be clear to you, and I saw it. All the doubt I had vanished. Liloxi. Would you care to explain who the Pokemon three rescued is?"

Confused, I turned and looked at Pumpkin and Miya, their eyes fixed intently on me. "The Pokemon we recused was Lave, my best friend."

"...Really!?" Miya exclaimed to which I nodded. Behind her, Pumpkin was shocked, not saying a word. "So you knew about that mission?"

"No, I-"

"Everything that I've told you, it was kept hidden, even Liloxi knew nothing of it." Chatot cut in. "The only ones who knew were the Guildmaster and I since we share almost everything.

"So, why are you telling us this now?" Pumpkin said, finally speaking up.

"...you all know about the disasters that have been plaguing the region recently, like the earthquake earlier?" Chatot asked, to which we nod. "Well, I have reason to believe those disasters, Liloxi, and his friend Lave are all connected and getting worse as we speak.

"Connected!? Hold on, you're telling me that Liloxi and his friend are causing the place to fall apart. I don't buy that. Miya said with doubt written all over her face. At first, I was in agreement with her, but after remembering what happened during the mission, I started giving it second thoughts.

"Wait Miya, which if he's telling the truth? What if I am the cause of these problems? It would at least be fair to find out what's going on with me. I would like to know, for one."

"I would too. I can't imagine another Earthquake happening, especially around here." Pumpkin said, looking back at the town in the distance. Although all of it seemed like a lot to take in, none of what Chatot said was false and Miya knew that. We all knew she was smart enough to figure out that everything he said so far was true so he didn't have a reason to lie. Looking over at her, I noticed he was staring at the scar permanently imprinted on Pumpkin's face, thinking intently.

With a heavy sigh, Miya nodded. "I have no reason to not trust you Chatot. After all, you were the one who helped us escape. If we're going to find out about Liloxi's and his friend's connection with these disasters, where do we start?"

"Mt. Bristle," Chatot said pointing towards the mountains in the distance, with a smile. "There, you'll find a Pokemon who have been affected by the disasters for quite a while. They should be a good start, if not, the answer.

"Great, let's go!

"Not so fast."

Just as fast as he spoke, Chatot raised his wings off towards the ocean as he stood in an elegant pose. Gradually, what I once thought was the moonlight shimming off his feathers, the light suddenly flared into a ghostly haze.

Before you go, there is something I must teach you, something you will see used quite often by powerful Pokemon; An ability called "Overflow".

"Overflow?" I said, tilting my head.

With a smirk, Chatot leaped off the rock and landed in front of us, causing us to take a step back. As I got a good look at him, he no longer resembled the bird Pokemon we once knew. The ends of his feathers moved gracefully like a wisp of smoke. His body gave off a faint lavender glow as his body wavered like a mirage. On top of his head, which usually sat his signature horn was now replaced with a black flame-like wisp, and in front of it, a crown that resembled a fan.

"Yes, Overflow, the Power of Mystery," Chatot said, his voice about as hazy as the atmosphere that shrouded him. "But before I continue, May I ask, what is your team name?"

Looking at one another, we nodded. This was something we came up with even before joining the guild

"From the moment we met each other, we knew who we were going to be. Our team name is Team Silver!

"Well, Team Silver, Let us begin! EN GARDE!"