Chapter 1: A Promise on the Horizon
"To find hope, one must go beyond despair. So when you reach the end of the night, you will find the dawn."
Roar!
Lucario roared as it launched that destructive spiral towards the defenseless Rem.
Naruto's exasperation in the face of the situation bordered on madness. His legs started moving on their own, and before he realized it, he didn't retreat; on the contrary, he planted his feet on the cracked asphalt and raced towards Rem.
He knew that this beating had happened due to his own irresponsibility. Dueling with someone after a whole day of intense battles against trainers who, even though they were aspirants, were still as good as average trainers. His sole companion was exhausted, her legs nearly shaky, fatigue on the verge of consuming her, and yet, his pride spoke louder.
This was the perfect moment to repay all the loyalty and happiness that Rem had given him.
Naruto leapt towards the Aura Sphere. Kirlia widened her ruby eyes. Not even Lucario had thought of such a possibility when he saw his energy sphere about to collide with his back. The Poké Ball symbol was shattered from his jacket, the contrast of indigo blue fabric with the symbol made the Poké Ball look like a target.
— YOU IDIOT! GET OUT OF THERE! IT'S IMPOSSIBLE TO CHANGE THE TRAJECTORY! — the mysterious figure urgently warned.
" Do you know the feeling of not feeling the extremities of your body... When buzzing deafens your eardrums... Could this be the sensation of risking your own life? And even if it might be... I don't regret it, because right now you're the only one who's been by my side."
It was inevitable. Soon, that powerful sphere collided with the young man's ribs, immediately sending him hurtling towards one of the luminous posts in that enclosure.
The impact crumpled the metal in a way that it fit like a mold against the boy's torso. Naruto stayed there, his body unmoving, his skin cold, and soon the sound of his blood dripping stained the asphalt.
— Rem... — His voice remained steadfast. Even as his own blood trickled from his lips, he still remained steadfastly a safe harbor for his companion.
His vision was gradually meeting the conclusion of his eyelids, and all he saw before fainting were blurs moving towards him.
— I'm sorry for being reckless... — His choked voice faded from his mouth along with his consciousness.
Slateport Pokémon Center — 5:40 AM.
Slowly, Naruto's eyelids opened, and the intense artificial light irritated his eyes. A white curtain was to his right, blocking his visual contact with whoever might be there; to his left, Rem was leaning over his bed, sleeping by his side. Even though only her head was under the bed, she had an angelic expression.
Naruto smiled sweetly at seeing her so peaceful.
— Good thing you're alright... Argh... — he groaned, his body still recovering from the wounds of the previous night.
Suddenly, the white curtain was pulled aside, and the mystery from earlier was still lurking. Instinctively, he forced his arm to its limit to place it in front of Rem, gritting his teeth and closing one eye due to the stinging pain in his limb.
— It doesn't matter if you won, I'll never give her to you! Argh... — His loud voice and defiant tone woke up Kirlia.
— Good morning to you too. — A monotone response came.
The enigmatic woman walked over to the end of the bed and placed one of her hands on her hip. She continued.
— Is that a way to thank someone who brought you to the nearest Pokémon Center? — She referred to the hostile looks both of them were giving her.
— I appreciate... I guess.
She nodded affirmatively in response.
— You know what you did yesterday was the 'biggest best idiocy' I've witnessed so far. Even the nurse said it's a miracle you're not in a coma! Thank Arceus for that.
— I don't care, Rem is my family, it's my duty to protect her.
His words triggered tears welling up in the dancer's eyes.
— I admit I was envious of your courage, but don't do that again, what if it becomes a trend? Remember that you're a child star; even if your fame is small, it's still fame.
— Thanks for the bit that's mine. — His curt conclusion irked the woman.
— Listen here, you little shit, don't make me finish the job my Lucario started!
— Good to know that you were responsible for admitting another patient to my Pokémon Center.
The head nurse and her Blissey entered the room, both carrying trays with a meal, but only the head nurse held a pot of Leppa Berries, likely for Rem.
— I-I'm not what you're thinking, Nurse Kimberly! — He replied immediately, his nervousness evident even behind his coat.
— I don't care if you don't want to identify yourself, after all, you were the one who took the trouble to bring him here, but making a Lucario break my nephew's little back?! Apologize! — Her sarcastic tone was characteristic, and the eerie grin that Blissey always carried was frightening even to Darkray.
— N-Nephew...? But you two are completely different! — He stammered and shifted his head's position between both of them, utterly confused.
In a way, she was right, Kimberly and Naruto were like water and oil, physically speaking.
Kimberly had long hair with a shade so light brown that it bordered on blonde; a large braid was resting on her shoulder and extended down to her belly; on her right side, a large fringe covered her snow-colored eye, while her left eye had a purple hue. Her purple dress was like any other maid uniform, but had a white ruffle that was very tight, accentuating her ample bust.
The contrast between the two was clear.
— Yes, we're a large family, there are seventeen of us sisters. Maybe our mother's beauty spread in a very distinct way, but that doesn't change our relationship."
— I really don't know if I should believe that... — He grumbled.
— Believe it, having seventeen aunts can be stressful... Ow! — Naruto vented, but was interrupted by Kimberly punching him on the head.
— Naruto and Rem! You both need a hearty breakfast. Especially her, after all, Rem must be exhausted from waiting for her trainer to wake up.
The little Kirlia smiled.
— Thanks for taking care of me, Rem. — A sweet tone came in gratitude.
— Kirlia... — Her voice contracted submissively, and a light blush appeared on her face.
It didn't take long for them both to help themselves. While Rem ate her Leppa Berries, her trainer used a 'bite' to devour the sandwiches cut into perfect triangles.
— You two... Never mind. — The unnamed woman mused in whispers at the scene before her. However, her growling stomach caught Naruto's attention.
— Come on. I think I owe you this. — Naruto said, reaching out with one of his hands, offering a sandwich.— No... I can have coffee at any café, and besides...
— First of all, I'm satisfied. — He spoke while signaling the number two with his other hand, a smile forming on his face. — Secondly, thanks for helping me out.
The gleam that his smile emitted was almost confused with the rays of sunshine that entered the room. That smile warmed the young woman's heart; it was comforting and conveyed a feeling of security that could never be taken away.
— Your smile is so beautiful... I wouldn't mind seeing it every morning...
Her heart raced, a warmth enveloped her entirely; was it her layers of clothing? Was the morning unusually hot? No. Beneath her façade, she was as red as a chili pepper.
— I-It's nothing... — Did she just stutter? Even she didn't understand what happened to her.
Then, delicately, she grabbed the other corner of the triangle.
Let your smile change the world, but never let the world change your smile.
Slateport Bay — 7:00 AM.
The cold sea current scared people away, who preferred to stay on the shore, walking along the soft sand while enjoying the beautiful dawn of Slateport Bay. Wingulls circled the coast, waiting to capture a Magikarp from the fishing nets of the boats anchored on the beach. Taillows woke up in their nests, contributing to the morning symphony of the city.
— Ah-choo!
Naruto sneezed, feeling the cold air. His attire was simple, consisting of a plain black shirt and blue jeans. Even in the cool weather, he wasn't wearing any jacket. Kirlia, on the other hand, was better bundled up, with a black scarf adorning her neck.
The mysterious companion observed the boy and became concerned about his lack of warm clothing, commenting.
— You know, it's amazing that you've recovered and all... but aren't you exaggerating by coming here without a jacket?
— Don't bother me... — Naruto responded nonchalantly, rubbing his arms in an attempt to warm himself.
— If you say so. Where are you headed now? — She seemed overly curious.
Naruto stopped and looked at her. "Where am I going?" — he pondered, as his words mixed with the sea breeze.
— I'm going back home... By now, Professor Birch must have had a fit, and May is probably coming up with excuses not to kill me. — Naruto sighed.
"May... who could that be?" — she thought, not understanding the relationship between Naruto and this person.
— Your family? — For some reason, she didn't like hearing that feminine name.
— You could say that. Hey, why are you so interested? I don't even know who you are.
— You'll know at the right time.
The girl's curiosity only grew. She wanted to know more about him, but decided to wait for the right moment to introduce herself and reveal her identity.
Silence settled on the beach, with only the sound of the sea crashing against the shore and the creaking of the wood under their feet breaking the tranquil atmosphere.
With their hands in their pants pockets, Naruto and the mysterious girl walked side by side. She intertwined her fingers behind her back, swaying them idly.
Then, after a moment of contemplation, the boy asked:
— And you? Where are you headed now?
— Who knows... Could I go with you? — she suggested.
— No way — was Naruto's immediate response.
She was surprised and disappointed by the rejection.
— Huh?! Why not?
— I already told you. I don't even know your name! — he replied, somewhat annoyed.
The girl strongly reacted to Naruto's response. She seemed offended by his insistence on not letting her accompany him.
— YOU IRRITATING BOY!
Naruto didn't like the comment and retorted:
— DON'T TREAT ME LIKE YOU'RE OLDER! YOU'RE MY HEIGHT!
— AND HEIGHT IS A CREDENTIAL? LOOK AT YOURSELF, YOU MINI-DOORMAN!
— CAGE GUARD!
— PAVEMENT MOUNTAINEER!
— ARMCHAIR CLIMBER!
Both were 160 centimeters tall, and the argument took a comical turn. Instead of continuing to argue, they broke into deep and innocent laughter, surprising the few tourists who were watching them. The scene seemed to depict a long-standing friendship, even though it was their first encounter.
Rem was confused by what she witnessed, not able to comprehend the reason, but she soon felt reassured seeing her master happy.
— You know... that blue Granbull of yours is really strong. — Naruto admitted reluctantly.
She burst into laughter.
— Are you talking about my Lucario?
— Is that its name?
— Yup. He's a big companion of mine, but not the strongest. — She said, with her nose up.
The mystery surrounding her team intrigued Naruto even more, but he decided it was better not to press further. He would respect the right moment for her to introduce herself.
And so, amid laughter and playfulness, the duo continued walking along Slateport Bay, leaving behind a tumultuous start that now had the potential to become something special.
— I think we've reached my destination — Confirmed the hooded young woman.
They had been engulfed by a massive shadow, both looked up and tried to see the top of that structure. The cruise ship anchored at the port presented an image of grandeur. The vessel was bustling with constant activity, as the diligent crew performed their morning tasks, ensuring everything was impeccable for the new passengers boarding later. Cleaning teams meticulously tended to every corner of the ship, while the chefs prepared delicious feasts for the upcoming guests.
Colorful flags danced gently in the bow wind, adding a festive touch to the scene. Around the ship, small boats and ferries passed, carrying passengers and supplies, creating a harmonious movement of embarkation and disembarkation.
The salty smell of the sea and the aroma of fresh coffee wafted through the air, while the rays of the sun illuminated the port landscape, bringing life and warmth to the environment.
— S.S. Tidal... — Naruto's gaze fixated on the majestic ship before them, the SS Tidal. His lips whispered.
— Majestic, isn't it? — The mysterious companion at his side responded with a faint smile.
— Yes, I agree. It's truly impressive.
The glimmer of the sea reflected in the cerulean eyes of the young man, who was enchanted by the grandeur of the ship.
She felt a strange urge to touch his arm, to share that moment with him, but her pride held her back.
— It seems we part ways here, Naruto Stone.
The blond frowned, refusing to let her leave so abruptly.
— Not a chance... Were you here on business? — He inquired with curiosity.
The young woman resisted with a quick movement of her index finger.
— No, that's not the case. I came for other reasons.
The dialogue between them created an aura of mystery that hung in the air, and the SS Tidal silently witnessed this enigmatic encounter.
— Other reasons? — Naruto frowned again, intrigued. — Are you a detective or something?
The young woman smiled enigmatically.
— Something like that, let's say. I can say that I have business to attend to in various places, and Slateport is no exception.
Naruto scratched his head, trying to decipher the personality and objectives of that mysterious figure.
— You truly are an enigma, aren't you? I don't even know your name...
She looked out to the horizon for a moment, as if contemplating something distant.
— Knowing my name wouldn't change much, Naruto Stone. But if you want to call me "Eclipse," you can. It's a moniker that suits my silent nature.
"Eclipse," Naruto thought, repeating the name mentally. It was a peculiar name but seemed to fit perfectly with that mysterious figure.
— Alright, "Eclipse." Whoever you are and whatever you're doing, I hope you succeed in your endeavors — Naruto said with a friendly smile.
Eclipse was surprised by Naruto's sincerity. For a moment, her enigmatic facade cracked, and she showed a glimpse of vulnerability.
— Thank you, Naruto. It's rare to find someone so... friendly.
He shrugged with a playful smile.
— I'm known for being a weird mix of annoying and friendly. I guess today I'm in friendly mode.
Eclipse chuckled softly, and for the first time, Naruto heard how soft and welcoming her laughter was.
— Maybe I'm in friendly mode too, even though that's rare for me.
They exchanged glances for a moment, an inexplicable connection forming between them.
— Well, Eclipse, I hope our paths cross again someday. And when that happens, I'm sure I'll be stronger and able to defeat you! — Naruto said, extending his hand in a farewell gesture.
Eclipse looked surprised at Naruto for a moment but then smiled enigmatically.
— I can't wait to see if your words will come true, Naruto Stone. Until our next encounter...
And so, they parted ways, each going their own path. Naruto watched the SS Tidal move away with Eclipse aboard, and as the ship disappeared on the horizon, he felt a gentle sea breeze caress his face.
Then fate took the reins.
Suddenly, the hat Eclipse was wearing was taken by the breeze and fell at Naruto's feet. He picked up the hat with surprise and noticed something written on the inside. With a curious look, he read the name written there: "Cinthya."
His eyes widened with the discovery. That mysterious figure who had helped and challenged him was none other than Cinthya, the renowned Champion of the Sinnoh Pokémon League. Naruto was momentarily stunned, assimilating the revelation.
Her long, wavy blond hair danced gently in the wind, and her gray eyes were like two bright pearls, reflecting the sunlight with a charming gleam.
Surprise engulfed Naruto as he stared at Cinthya, and he could feel an inexplicable connection between them. Their hearts beat in unison, as if destiny had united them in that moment. The powerful trainer before him exuded an aura of confidence and passion, revealing her true feelings in an intense and captivating way.
As the sea breeze gently brushed their faces, Cinthya couldn't hide the slight embarrassment that filled her. Her gaze averted for a moment, but then she looked back at Naruto, this time with renewed determination.
— The next time we meet, we'll battle with everything our Pokémon can give. And if I win... — her words faltered for a moment, but she gathered courage and continued — We'll go on a date!
Naruto was intrigued by the proposal and by the passion that emanated from Cinthya's gray eyes. He realized that the Champion wasn't just interested in battles but also in something deeper. For a moment, he questioned the relationship between his search for his missing brother and the feelings that now seemed to blossom between him and Cinthya.
— A date, huh? — Naruto replied with a faint smile, trying to hide the storm of emotions he felt within him — But if I win... You'll tell me where my brother is.
Cinthya's expression grew more serious, but her eyes still reflected passion and determination.
— Alright, Naruto. If you win, I promise I'll help you find your brother. But remember, it won't be an easy task. I'm the Sinnoh League Champion for a reason — she replied, confident in her abilities as a trainer and the special connection she was developing with the young man.
Cinthya took a few steps toward the horizon but couldn't help stealing a glance at Naruto. Her heart raced, and she felt a sensation she had never experienced before. It was an overwhelming passion that slowly consumed her.
"Why am I feeling like this? He's just a young trainer, right?" She tried to convince herself, but she couldn't get Naruto out of her mind.
Memories of their battle, his determination, the way he cared for his Pokémon, it all stirred her feelings in an inexplicable way. She had never allowed herself to feel like this for someone, especially for a trainer she had recently met.
A tightness gripped Cinthya's chest, a mix of fear and excitement. She knew it was a dangerous feeling, but she also knew she couldn't ignore it. It was as if destiny had crossed their paths for a reason, and she was determined to find out what that meant.
She turned back to Naruto again and noticed that he was also watching her from a distance. Their gazes met, and she realized that he was feeling drawn to her as well. It made her smile, and she wondered what the future held for them.
"The next time we meet, we'll battle with everything our Pokémon can give, and if I win, we'll go on a date!" Her own promise echoed in her mind, and she felt her cheeks blush once more.
"I hope you win, Naruto," she thought, "because I really want to know more about you, about what motivates you and makes you so special. I want to be by your side and face challenges together, both as trainers and as... something more."
The sea breeze blew gently, as if that gesture symbolized the revelation of her true identity, the Champion of Sinnoh who now surrendered to an unexpected passion.
She looked at Naruto once again, her eyes reflecting renewed determination. She was ready to face whatever came her way, and if that encounter meant the opportunity to learn more about Naruto and, perhaps, start a new chapter in her life, she was willing to take the risk.
With a smile on her lips and a sparkle in her eyes, Cinthya continued on her path, certain that this encounter marked the beginning of an unforgettable journey, both in the Pokémon world and in her own heart. Destiny had reserved for them an adventure filled with emotions, and she was eager to discover what the future held.
To be continued.
Next Chapter: I Don't Choose You!
Glossary "Baka":
Blue Granbull; Granbull is a Pokémon from the Johto region that resembles a bipedal pitbull. Due to Lucario being bipedal, our protagonist, who has never seen a Lucario before, associated the two.