Chapter 11 - The Marking Ceremony
"Nice of you to join us…"
Roxy shot the Pikachu a glance. "Taka, don't start…"
"She was sick, Taka," Makari retorted, "No-one can blame her for that."
Taka simply shrugged and walked off to the middle of the training area, ready to begin for the day.
Roxy let out her breath slowly, moving her joints about and stretching. Complete recovery from her illness had been a slow, week-long process. She had been saddled with congestion, mild fever and an upset stomach that didn't seem to go away. It had been pretty unpleasant, but nothing that she couldn't handle.
Especially since Makari continued to stay by her side while she got better.
Now she was feeling better, though this meant an immediate return to training. Roxy had enjoyed her brief vacation from the demanding Taka, but the downside was that she felt a little out of practice.
"We are going to spend half of the day going over everything you have learned so far," Taka announced, "and then we shall move on to something else."
Roxy took one more breath and then nodded. "Okay," she said with a degree of certainty. Training with Taka was still very hard, but the progress she had made had given her a great boost to her spirits. The motivation was still there, so that she could learn to defend herself from danger. Roxy knew that there were much worse things out there than training with Taka.
"I will be watching," Makari said, causing her to turn to him and look into his eyes. The heat rose to her cheeks, something Roxy had become acutely aware was happening more and more often.
"Thanks…" she murmured.
"Heh…It took quite a bit of convincing to the wise ones to let me have just one more day, but I am afraid that after today I must return to patrol."
"Right…I guess they want you on overtime?"
Makari gave her a perplexed look.
"Uh…To make up for lost time?" she clarified.
"Ah. Yes, they do."
"Pet!" Taka barked, "We will begin now."
Roxy gave Makari a sidelong glance. "When do you think he'll start calling me by my name?"
Makari simply chuckled in response.
So, the next few hours were filled with nothing but a refresher course. Taka would have her perform moves, and then try to correct her when she got any of them wrong. She was rusty for a little bit, but soon was surprised at how quickly the skills were coming back to her.
Noon rolled past with a quick Leppa lunch break, and it was right back to training. Eventually, Taka started making her do a combined run through of all that she had learned so far, and she was to do it over and over again until she got it right.
This lasted for a couple more hours. She was given breaks, more than Taka wanted at the insistence of Makari, but they didn't last long. Roxy knew how stubborn and steadfast Taka could be, and so she tried to ignore the fatigue when it started to show. All she had to do was get this exercise right and she wouldn't have to do it anymore.
Eventually, it was the middle of the afternoon. "Ready…" Taka proclaimed, and Roxy knew that this time she could get it.
At Taka's signal, she moved from target to target as quickly as she could, hitting each with a different move she had learned. She threw slashes, kicks and tail swipes, and used short and long spears. Then she quickly moved in front of Taka, who began to attack her with a predetermined set of moves. She focused as hard as she could, keeping a calm mind as she quickly but carefully dodged or blocked every one.
Finally, silence filled the area as both stopped moving. Roxy began to pant, while Taka simply stared down at her.
"Very well," was all that he said.
"Wh…Huh? Did I do it?"
"You did it well enough…"
"Ah! Yes! I did it! I remembered everything!" She turned to the side and threw up her paws in joy. "Makari, I did it! I can still do all the things!"
Makari was smiling just as brightly as she was. "Wonderful, Roxy!"
Without even thinking, Roxy took off and sprinted towards Makari. She dashed towards him at full speed and nearly tackled him to the ground with the force of her hug. "I did it!"
"I knew you could do it," he said as he warmly hugged her back, "You are stronger than you think you are, Roxy."
"Yaaaaaayyy…!"
For a moment, Roxy simply reveled in her success. 'Well enough' was practically 'flying colours' when it came to Taka. She hadn't been sure if she would be able to pass her refresher course in just one day, and actually doing so had given her a huge confidence boost.
A little cherub-like grin appeared on her face as her brain shifted gears. She thought less about her victory, and more about the fact that she was hugging Makari again. His fur was so smooth and his body was so warm, but besides that she just felt so safe and secure in his embrace. He was so happy when she was happy, and this in turn just made her happier. It was so wonderful to share a hug with her favourite Pikachu in the whole world.
Was there a way to make this lovely hug last forever?
Roxy opened her eyes and glanced off to the side, seeing Taka standing nearby. His forelegs were crossed and he stared at the two of them with a furrowed brow. A moment later, one of his eyebrows shot upwards but he said nothing.
"Um," Roxy mumbled as she extracted herself from the embrace, "I wa- Jus- I- Yeah." Blushing madly with embarrassment, she just quickly made her way back to the centre of the training area.
"Right," Taka said, continuing as if nothing had happened, "Do not get too excited, you still have yet to master these skills. You have merely proven that your absence did not hamper you."
"Y-yeah," Roxy said with a nod.
"Practice them. A lot."
"Yes sir."
Taka gave her an odd look, and then clasped his paws behind his back as he meandered over to the side of the area. "Now then," he spoke, "It is time for you to learn a most important skill that no Pikachu should be without."
Roxy watched him as he stopped and stood next to a large boulder, a few jolts of anxiety hitting her as she wondered what was next. Furthermore, this was usually the time of day when Taka let her go.
"You are a Pikachu," he stated, "At least, in name. To become a true Pikachu, you must learn something that, honestly, should not have to be taught."
Roxy's ears fell flat against her head as she realized what Taka was talking about.
Indeed, Taka decided to punctuate his statement with a demonstration. He clenched his fists and scrunched his face up a little bit, before shouting and extending both of his paws forward. A strong bolt of lightning shot forth and impacted the rock, where it dissipated. The loud bang that went with it startled Roxy and made her jump.
After a moment of silence, she spoke. "I, uh…I guess it's time to level up?"
Taka ignored her and took a few steps away. "Show me the extent of your thunder once more."
She frowned at him. "Only if you promise not to make fun of me again…"
He shot her a look. "Just do it."
Roxy sighed and got down on all fours. She found that it was easier to do a Thunder Jolt when she stood like that. It was easy enough to do, but it did take a considerable amount of effort. She focused and built up her electricity, then did her best to zap the rock.
She felt especially inadequate doing this. Roxy had learned that most cubs figure out how to wield electricity on their own, and only need training to pull off advanced techniques. She, on the other hand, could only produce enough electricity to maybe shock a Caterpie.
She glanced at Taka, who didn't look pleased by what he saw. "You have much to improve."
Roxy gave him a flat look. Gee, she thought, Thanks Captain Obvious…
"We will start with the simplest; your posture."
She glanced up at him and frowned. "Do I have to stand up? It's easier to do like this."
"No. Standing on all fours allows you to focus your attack better."
"Oh!" She perked up, feeling pleasantly surprised that she had figured something out on her own, even if it was by accident.
"But, you need to arch your back," Taka continued, walking over and getting down on all fours beside her. He adopted a position to show her what she needed to do.
"Like this…?" Roxy asked, trying to bend her spine like he was doing.
"More," he replied, "Tail high to the sky. Your rump should be just as high, if not higher, than your head."
"Umm…" Roxy grunted as she shifted into position. It felt weird and kind of uncomfortable. She tried to hold her tail up as straight as possible, though she couldn't look back at it or she knew she would lose her balance.
"Right. Try again."
"The Thunder Jolt?"
Roxy took Taka's silence as an affirmative and prepared to attack the rock once again. She thought about trying to impress him with something a little more powerful, but then she realized that she had never done two Thunder Jolts so quickly in succession. Her attack ended up being about the same as last time, though it left her twice as worn out afterwards.
Taka sighed. "Watch me."
She looked over as he changed position slightly so that she could see him. He adopted the position once more, with back arched and tail to the sky, and then sparks began to fly from his cheeks. Roxy paid close attention, trying to see every little detail about this demonstration that she could find. She remained in her own crouched position, trying to adjust herself further to match his stance.
Taka unleashed his attack, and suddenly everything went white. Roxy let out a cry of literal shock as a strong, painful tingling sensation suddenly overcame her entire body. She collapsed onto her stomach, crying out in confusion as the paralyzing feeling of powerful electricity danced across her body.
Both of the other Pikachu were at her side in an instant. Makari grabbed onto her paws and helped her sit up. The sensation passed rather quickly, but it still left her aching and twitching all over. Once she had regained her senses, she shot Taka a furious look. "What did you hit me for?!" she demanded.
"I did no such thing!" Taka replied, his tone indignant but he was also clearly confused, "Makari, what happened? Did you see?"
Roxy glanced over at Makari, seeing that he looked just as perplexed. "I…am not sure…" he muttered, then leaned in closer to her. "Are you okay?" he asked.
"I…I'm f-fine…" she spoke, though it was a little difficult to do so as her whole body was still twitching and jerking.
"Makari!" Taka barked, "What happened?"
"Your thunder…It…" Makari seemed to be at a loss for words.
"It what?"
"It turned…in the air."
Taka gave him a bewildered look. "What…?!"
"You let loose your attack, it bolted forwards, but then it turned around in the air and went straight for Roxy. It was drawn to her tail, and then it shocked her."
"Makari, thunder does not curve in the air like that."
"I am only telling you what I saw."
"Nnnnnhh…" Roxy moaned. She felt weird all over. Besides the lingering aches, her muscles just felt strange and in general she just felt abnormal.
"Is she…What has happened to her?"
Roxy blinked in surprise and glanced down at herself. It didn't take her long to notice the sparks that were dancing from her cheeks. "Gah!" she exclaimed in surprise, falling back slightly. The sparks didn't stop.
"Here, Roxy…Lie down," Makari said to her in a calming voice.
"Oh, do not coddle her. You are a Pikachu, pet. Thunder should not affect you this much."
"Taka! Will you stop trying to pretend she is from here?!"
"What's…What's happening?" Roxy asked in a panic, feeling that the sparks were still flying from her cheeks.
"You seem to be…charged with thunder," Makari noted.
"It's feels weeeeeird…"
"She must have done something," Taka spat defensively, "Some weird trick the humans taught her or something…"
"I…I didn't…" Roxy murmured.
"I did not shock her. I cannot explain why my thunder struck her tail."
"Thunder…tail…" Roxy murmured. A moment later, her eyes opened wide. "Ohhh…" She turned and gave the two brothers a bashful look.
"That's…Um…That's my Lightning Rod."
They both gave her a blank look.
"I guess I know how that works now…"
The negative effects of being shocked didn't last very long, and soon enough Roxy was well enough to continue learning with Taka. This time, though, they made sure not to keep her tail elevated.
Learning new electric moves, however, didn't go very well. She tried her best to listen to what Taka was saying and to watch his demonstrations, but what she could do never seemed to move beyond her Thunder Jolt.
That didn't stop Taka from trying, though. He had her keep using electric move after electric move, trying to get her to learn the skills. Unfortunately, they just didn't seem to be coming to her. She could never build up enough power in her cheek pouches, at least not without getting dizzy and tumbling over. Makari was as supportive as he could be, but it was clear that progress would not be made that day.
It was a completely exhausting endeavour. Each attack that Roxy tried drained her and wore her out. It was like the electricity was sapping her strength. A short food break with Makari had only barely helped. By the time Taka finally decided to call it quits, Roxy was ready to pass out.
She was lying on her back, panting from exertion. She had never been so relieved to hear Taka say that the training day was over, but now she felt like she couldn't move. All she could do was lie there and listen to the brothers talk.
"Cubs learn thunder faster than she does."
"How original, Taka…"
"It is true."
"It is also callous."
"I do not know if she will even be able to learn proper thunder techniques. It seems like living as a pet for as long as she has…Well, has taken away her skills."
"I do not think I agree with that line of thinking…"
"You saw how today went…"
Roxy frowned. She was trying her hardest, but this was just another thing she had never tried in her life. Thunder Jolt had just been something that was so easy, even she could do it.
"I am going now," Taka said.
"Okay. Would you like to spar later? We have not had a chance to do that for a while."
There was a pause.
"The festival is tonight, Makari. Have you forgotten…?"
Makari gasped. "Ah!"
Confused, Roxy forced herself to sit up. She groaned as she did so, feeling the lingering fatigue. She glanced over at Makari and saw that Taka was already walking away. "Festival?" she spoke.
Makari turned to her and then walked over. "Yes, the festival…Wow, I had completely forgotten. I had been so preoccupied with helping you get better that it slipped my mind."
Roxy smiled upon hearing that. "What is it?"
"It is the festival of the Marking Ceremony, and it will be happening tonight just as the sun goes down."
"The 'Marking Ceremony'?"
Makari nodded, taking a seat next to her. "The Marking Ceremony happens once every passing of the moon, usually when the first quarter is visible. It is when we gather together to bestow new marks upon those who have earned them." As he explained, he touched the large green swoosh shape on his chest.
"Oh really?"
He nodded. "It is also the time to celebrate cubs who earn their first mark. At such a time, they also receive their name."
Roxy thought back to what Makari had explained to her about how names were given out in the tribe. "Wow, that sounds interesting."
"It is a time of celebration and revelry. There is food and music and plenty of good times."
Roxy glanced off at nothing for a moment, trying to picture it in her head. She had seen on TV the ceremonies of some rural human tribes who lived in the jungles and deserts, but even those didn't seem quite like what Makari was describing.
"Would you like to go?"
She turned back towards him, seeing that he was giving her an imploring look and a charming smile. "…To the festival?"
He nodded. "It will begin in a few hours."
"Really? I…I can come?"
His smile brightened. "Of course you may come! You would be more than welcome to! This will be a time to enjoy yourself, and no-one can say you do not deserve that." When she didn't reply right away, he added, "Please? I would be very happy if you would accompany me." He held out his paw to her.
Roxy could feel herself starting to blush. She was very interested in this festival and felt excited to be able to go, but the way Makari was asking her made a set of different feelings bubble up. He wasn't just suggesting she go to the festival, he was asking her to go with him. It was an invitation. It was almost like a…
"Yes!" she blurted out, "I'd love to!"
Makari beamed. "Wonderful!" He reached over and gently took one of her paws in his own.
A shiver ran through her whole body at his touch, which had nothing to do with his Static.
Roxy spent the next few hours relaxing in Makari's hut, getting back some of the energy she had lost while training, and eating a quick snack. With Makari's company, it wasn't long before the sun started to set outside.
That was when she started to hear a commotion outside. She had asked if the festival was starting, but Makari told her that it was merely being set up. Her anticipation started to grow with every passing moment she spent in that hut. She tried to imagine what the ceremony might be like, but all she could think about was spending more time with Makari.
Soon after, Makari disappeared out the door for a few minutes. When he returned, with the last rays of light fading behind him, he held open the vines in the doorway and extended a single paw inwards towards her. "Are you ready?" he asked.
Roxy nodded and stood up. She stretched a little bit, wishing she wasn't quite as tired but excited nonetheless, and padded over to the doorway. There, she got up on her hind legs and took Makari's forepaw with one of hers.
Makari smiled warmly. He looked like a perfect gentleman, as the humans would say. He gave a gentle tug on her paw and began to leisurely lead her through the village. It was getting really dark outside, which made Roxy start to feel a little nervous. For a moment, she wondered what kind of ceremony it would be if it were too dark to see.
Then, the two of them approached the large clearing in the centre of the village. Roxy remembered it as the place where Makari had first introduced her to the rest of the clan. Her wide eyes twinkled as she saw what it looked like now.
Encircling the clearing were a series of sticks or poles, each one with a small flame burning at the tip. Roxy presumed that they had been lit in much the same way as the little torch in Makari's hut. They helped bring light to the clearing, but not as much as the marvelous bonfire near the middle. Roxy was astonished as she gazed at it, the dancing flames glimmering in her eyes. It was surrounded securely by rocks, ensuring that it would not spread, but its light was bright enough that it may as well have been early in the evening.
Seated in front of the bonfire, with their backs to the flames, were four Pikachu arranged in a line. Sitting in front of them were the three Wise Ones. The rest of the clearing was slowly starting to fill with more and more Thunder Clan members. Most of them were chatting amongst one another. Roxy saw Miri, Bamaka and Bogo, as well as many others she recognized. Many of them waved to her as she arrived, to which she smiled and waved back.
One member of the Thunder Clan was noticeably absent. "Where is Adi?"
"He is on night patrol," Makari replied, "Only half of the village is here, while the other half work diligently to keep us safe."
"Oh, I see…" Roxy murmured quietly, suddenly feeling a little bit vulnerable. She realized that, despite the light of the fire, she was outside in the wilderness in the pitch black of the night.
Makari must have sensed her worry. "Roxy, consider it…If a predator wanted to eat one of us, would he really choose to attack us here? Where most of us are gathered together in one place, wielding fire?"
Roxy gazed up at him for a moment, then broke out into a smile. "Heh heh…I guess you're right." Just like that, she didn't feel afraid anymore. Like always, Makari had known just the right thing to say.
The four behind the Wise Ones looked around and seemed to notice that most of the attendees had arrived. They all looked at one another for a moment, seeming to trade silent signals, and then all of them held a pair of sticks above each of their heads.
A moment later, the drumming began.
Roxy started a little as thunderous drumming suddenly filled the air. She realized that the four Pikachu had hollowed logs sitting in front of them, which they were currently banging their sticks against to make music. The sound was very primitive and simplistic, but it had an invigorating feel to it as well. The crowd around her fell silent as the drummers played a very impressive, fast-paced sequence.
Then, with one final, resounding note, the drummers stopped playing and a chilling silence filled the area. Everyone in the audience watched and waited, including Roxy. She'd had no idea what to expect from this festival, and already she was surprised.
Finally, Karizu stood up on his hind legs. His necklace jingled as he moved, which was the only sound that could be heard over the crackling of the fire. After a few moments, he began to speak. "Brethren of the Thunder Clan…" he proclaimed in a booming voice, "The heavens smile upon us as we sit beneath the beauty of the shining moon. It seemed like so long ago that the moon looked like this. So much has happened."
Roxy could feel a few eyes fall upon her, but she ignored them and continued to listen.
"I am glad that those who are here could join us. My tribe, my brethren…my friends, it is time once more for the Festival of the Marking Ceremony!"
The drums began to play once more as the crowd erupted into cheers. Roxy found herself swept up in the sudden surge of such positive energy. She couldn't help but smile.
Karizu laughed and held up his paws for silence. When it came, he continued. "It is a great honour to once again head this ceremony. It brings me such pride to see all of you accomplishing so much, and not one of you does any of it simply to obtain another mark. You are so brave, clever and wonderful. I am glad to call each and every one of you…my family."
There were more cheers, and even Roxy joined in with a small whoop that was probably drowned out. A little part of her mind wondered if Karizu counted her in that statement as well.
"Well, if there are no objections, I say we should move on to the main event." Karizu chuckled. "I know some of you cannot wait to dig into that pile of Pinap Berries."
The crowd laughed, and Roxy guessed that it was an inside joke.
"I ask that those who are to take part in the ceremony, please come forward."
The crowd then began to shuffle around. Feeling just the tiniest bit claustrophobic, especially in the dark, Roxy shuffled closer to Makari and grabbed onto one of his forelegs. He didn't seem to mind one bit, and smiled at her when she turned to look up at him.
A moment later, six Pokémon had been separated from the crowd and were standing before the three Wise Ones. There were three adults and three others who were just barely young enough to still be called 'cubs'. Five of them were Pikachu and the other was a Pachirisu.
Roxy figured that these were the Pokémon about to receive their mark. She wanted to ask Makari about it, but didn't want to speak up and disturb the ceremony. So, she simply settled in and watched in silence.
"Manaka," Karizu called out.
One of the adult Pikachu stepped forward. He bowed his head respectively, and then simply stood there.
"For your contributions to this tribe, and harmony with your brethren, we bestow upon you this mark."
The Pikachu, Manaka, nodded and kept his eyes closed. "I accept," he spoke, "Thank you for this honour, wise ones."
Ozu then stood and approached the Pikachu. He was carrying a bowl, made from the shell of a Chesto Berry. He stood directly in front of Manaka, and then dipped his other forepaw into the bowl. When he pulled it out, it was covered in a dripping green substance.
Roxy recognized it immediately, as it was the same shade of green that covered the villagers' bodies. Ozu brought his paw up to Manaka's shoulder, where he brought it down slowly but firmly. Using his paw expertly like a painter would a brush, Ozu painted a band of green down from Manaka's shoulder to about where his navel was, where it ended in a point. Manaka smiled warmly after the act was done, and nodded his head in thanks.
"It symbolizes his bravery in the face of danger."
Roxy jumped slightly when she heard Makari whispering to her. She glanced at him for a moment and said, "Oh." She then turned back towards the centre.
"The paint for the marks is made from a special mixture of berries and plants," he explained, taking care not to speak too loudly and disturb the ceremony, "It quickly adheres to fur and dyes it. The marks last a very long time before they finally start to fade and need to be reapplied."
"Wow…" Roxy whispered.
A few more words were said, and then Manaka stepped back, looking proud of his new mark. Roxy noticed Ozu briefly place the bowl of paint down and reach over to a second bowl. This was full of water, which he used to wash off his paws.
"Is that so his paws don't turn green?" Roxy asked.
Makari laughed softly. "Indeed."
Karizu then looked out at the gathered Pokémon and called out a second name. "Fagokikai."
One of the younger Pikachu cubs stepped forward. He looked as if he had evolved from a Pichu not too long ago. Roxy recognized the 'kai' in his name and knew that the cub didn't yet have a name.
"It is with great honour, responsibility, and congratulations…" Karizu spoke, "that we recognize your abilities and welcome you as a full-fledged member of this clan. We are all very proud to bestow upon you…your very first mark."
Ozu then stepped forward once more. The Pikachu cub was bouncing with excitement, and it took focus for him to stand still while Ozu applied the green paint. His mark was a crescent moon shape around the side of his head.
"Leadership," Makari supplied, "Or a sense of comradery."
"We believe," Karizu continued, "that you will accomplish great things. We cannot promise anything, but perhaps there is a sacred stone in your future. Congratulations, young one… From now on, we shall call you by your true name." There was a pause, and then he announced, "Kudi!"
There was an uproarious cheer from the audience. Roxy decided to join in the applause. It was still a very strange thing for her to wrap her head around. To her, names had always been a thing that were given at birth. Still, though, she could easily see how big of a deal it would be to receive one.
"What does it mean?" she whispered to Makari.
"He is intelligent and respected."
She smiled. "That sounds like a nice name to have."
The ceremony then continued, as the second grown Pikachu stepped forward. This one was already covered in plenty of green, and Ozu added a few small dots around one of his eyes.
"He knows how to watch out for danger," Makari explained.
The Pachirisu was next. Though he was much smaller than those around him, he still earned the same amount of respect as those who had come before him. His was a ring-like mark around the tail.
"That one is for skills in battle. I actually do not remember which skills it refers to."
"How many different kinds of marks are there?"
Makari let out a quick laugh. "Countless," he answered.
The same ceremony continued for the other two Pikachu. They both received a new mark, and the remaining cub was given a name. It was a fascinating display and unlike anything Roxy had ever seen before. This was the sort of thing she had only seen on TV or read in books. To see it actually happening before her eyes was truly remarkable.
Once the last Pikachu stepped back, having received her honours, there was a brief moment of silence. Roxy wondered what would happen next.
"Well…" Karizu spoke, giving a sort of half-smirk to the audience, "It seems to me that somebody is missing."
Roxy tilted her head. What did that mean?
Karizu glanced over towards her and moved his head in a beckoning motion. "Come on, now."
Her eyes shot open wide and she felt her heart freeze. Was he talking to her? Why would he be talking to her?! Did he actually want her to come forward, in front of all these other Pokémon, and…?
Her fears were quelled when it was Makari who stepped forward. She heaved a sigh of relief and chuckled at herself. She'd nearly just had a heart attack.
Now, though, she gazed forward at Makari in confusion. Did he have something to do with the ceremony? If so, why hadn't he mentioned it before?
"Makari," Karizu announced.
He simply smiled.
"For your contributions to this tribe, and harmony with your brethren, we bestow upon you this mark."
Makari nodded. "I accept," he spoke, "Thank you for this honour, wise ones."
Roxy quietly gasped. Makari was receiving a new mark? This was certainly unexpected.
Ozu moved forward, his paw once more dripping with green. He moved his paw directly towards Makari's chest. Roxy shivered a little. She was getting ticklish just looking at that. Ozu moved his paw around, but from her angle Roxy couldn't see what he had made.
"You have gone far beyond what was expected of you, Makari," Karizu spoke, "We all agree that you are truly deserving of this mark. Others could learn from the way you have acted."
Makari grinned. "Thank you, wise ones."
He then turned around and faced the crowd, who applauded. Roxy clapped her paws enthusiastically. She was so happy for Makari that she nearly let out a cheer. She didn't even know what the mark was for, but Makari was so amazing in so many different ways. She knew that he deserved all of the marks in the world.
She then glanced down at his chest. Ozu had drawn a circular shape that sort of looked like a sickle, but not quite. It formed a three-quarters circle over the upper-left portion of his chest. She had no idea what it meant, but she liked the way it looked. It complimented his other marks well.
Makari walked back over and joined her at her side once more. Before she had a chance to ask him any questions, Karizu spoke up once more in a loud voice.
"The ceremony is complete! Tonight, we give our respect and admiration to those who have earned it. But now, my brethren, enjoy yourselves."
There was a loud cheer from the whole crowd, and then the drummers started to play once more. This time, their music was more rhythmical, and this had an immediate effect on those around her. Before she knew it, almost everyone else had started to dance.
Roxy took a step back with Makari so they wouldn't get in anyone's way, and Roxy simply sat there for a moment to watch.
In no time at all, the party had begun. Some of the villagers were eating berries from large piles that had been set up nearby, but most of them had started dancing. Roxy had seen a few Pokémon dancing on TV before, but nothing like this. The way these Pokémon moved was yet another thing she had never seen before.
"Wow…!" she marveled, a big grin plastered on her face.
Makari chuckled. "Traditionally, the dance was held after the ceremony so that the dye would dry faster." He winked at her. "Then again, who needs an excuse to dance?"
Roxy giggled and nodded. She continued to watch all of the dancing Pikachu. Their dancing involved a lot of hopping and exaggerated foreleg movements. There were no pairs dancing; everyone was doing it solo. Though it was only drums and no other instruments, Roxy soon found herself idly tapping one of her hind paws to the beat.
Makari then stepped in front of her. He extended one of his forepaws towards her and gave her an inviting look. "Care to dance?" he asked.
Roxy immediately flushed. "Ah…M-me?" she asked, realizing that was a dumb question. "Oh, I uh…I, uh…I dunno…" She glanced to the side bashfully. "I don't, uh…really know how…to…"
She jumped slightly when Makari reached forward and gently grabbed hold of one of her paws. She turned to look at him and found herself looking him right in the eyes.
"Roxy…" he spoke in that calming voice of his, "Now is not the time to worry. Cast all of your worries aside. Tonight is the time for having fun and nothing else." He smiled at her.
Even more heat was rising to her cheeks. Oh gosh, was she about to turn into a Fire Type? Was it just getting hot around because of the torches?
Roxy was not one for making a spectacle of herself in any way, and she had never danced before in her life. Even when her master would dance to music in her bedroom, Roxy would always just sit by and watch. This really wasn't her cup of tea.
Yet, she felt compelled to take Makari's paw and accept his offer. There was this tangible feeling of reassurance in his eyes and his voice. It made everything seem like it would be okay, no matter what choice she made. She felt like he could defend her from all of the ridiculous worries she had about every little thing.
She wasn't just thinking about dancing. Rather, Makari was asking her to dance with him.
"Um…" she mumbled, "Sure…" She smiled at him, a mix of nervousness and excitement, and gripped his paw back with her own. Makari led her out into the middle of the dancing crowd, smiling at her the whole way, until they were somewhere lost in the middle.
When he let go of her paw, they started to dance. Makari was dancing much like the other villagers. Roxy tried to copy his moves at first, but she found she wasn't very good at them. She felt like others might be staring at her, so she just settled on something a little more simple. She moved her head and her forepaws to the beat, moving her hind paws a little bit as well. Mostly, she was just watching Makari.
There was such a wild smile on his face as he danced. She got the feeling that he'd wanted to dance right from the beginning, but had chosen to stay by her side instead. Many of the other villagers, his brethren, were smiling right along with him. There wasn't a sour look among them. It was probably the happiest she had ever seen most of them.
The music picked up, and so did their dancing. Roxy still had no idea what she was doing and was just trying not to get stared at, but Makari's presence kept her calm. He was putting on some wild moves, but he always made sure to stay close by her.
This was great! This was actually a lot of fun. It was something totally new, but something she really enjoyed. Roxy had never considered herself a dancer, but soon enough she was trying out moves she had seen on TV. Some of the others started to look at her because of her different-looking moves, but she didn't care anymore. She was having way too much fun.
And Makari was right there by her side, laughing along with her.
Roxy danced for as long as she could, but soon enough her exhaustion caught up with her. It was like she had hit a wall and her strength had totally run out. When this happened, she quietly moved herself off of the 'dance floor' and sat on a log nearby, where she continued to watch.
Makari joined her a few minutes later, sitting right beside her. "You okay?" he asked.
Roxy nodded. "I'm still really tired from all the stuff Taka made me do today…"
"I see." Makari put his foreleg around her, which immediately brought out a warm smile. "We did not have to come. You could have-"
She shook her head. "No, no, no. This was amazing, Makari! I wanted to see it and I'm really glad I could. This is the most fun I've had since I've been out here." She smiled up at him. "Thanks for bringing me."
"You are welcome, Roxy. I am so glad that you have enjoyed yourself."
Roxy turned and watched the other Pokémon dance some more. For a moment, the two sat in silence and simply watched. When Roxy idly glanced over at Makari, she realized that she had forgotten something. "Oh!" she perked up, "Um…What does your new mark mean?"
He looked down at her, and then…glanced away? Was he looking bashful? "Heh, well…It, uh…"
Roxy simply looked up at him in curiosity, wondering what it could possibly be.
Makari seemed to collect his thoughts and looked back down at her. "It is the mark of 'caring'…" He smiled at her. "They gave it to me for watching over you."
She blinked and remained silent for a moment. Then, all at once, the burning cheeks and the Butterfree in her stomach came back with a vengeance. "Aww…" she murmured, "That's really sweet…" She was pleasantly surprised. They gave him a whole new mark, just because she was there and needed a babysitter? Roxy couldn't help but feel a little humble.
"I just think it is a little silly," Makari said with a chuckle, "There is no need for this mark…I was just doing what was right. If our marks did not exist, I would not have done anything different."
Makari jumped slightly as Roxy suddenly glomped him in a hug. "Thank you, Makari," she said, "Thank you for everything you've done…"
He paused for a moment, then hugged her back. "Thanks are not necessary…I am just glad that you are well."
She moved back from the hug and gave him a grin. "For what it's' worth, I think you do deserve that. You've done so much more for me than anyone else here."
Makari chuckled. "Well, I…"
Roxy sighed in contentment and sidled herself just a little closer to him, turning her view back to the dancers. "You've helped turn this nightmare into something better. I didn't choose to be here, and I didn't choose to be trapped here, but… Well, when you're around…things don't seem so bad."
"Heh…I am glad that I could be such help," he said.
"You have been such a good help! I don't know what I would've done if you hadn't been here…"
"I am sure someone would have done what I have done."
She softly shook her head. "Not as wonderfully as you have…"
The pair lapsed into silence as they sat and watched the dance, which was still in full swing. It was well into the night by now, but the villagers showed no sign of stopping. Roxy really wanted to join in with them some more, but she was just too exhausted. She had trained extra long with Taka, and all of that work with electricity had really worn her out.
She continued to watch, though, because she enjoyed the sight. It was a fascinating display, and it was made even more wonderful by the flickering light of the bonfire. It was almost like she, and she alone, had discovered a new breed of Pokémon.
But she wasn't just staring at these Pokémon like they were some foreign wild creatures. Through fortune and misfortune, these Pokémon had become almost like a second family to her. Perhaps 'family' was still too strong a word to use, but they protected her and enjoyed her company. They were like her in so many ways, and different in so many others.
Roxy sighed in content as her tired eyes watched the fast-paced, intricate dance moves. The Pikachu would move deftly on their feet, almost like they were hunting. Many of the dancers were now carrying spears and incorporating them into the dance. The Pachirisu swished their tails, the Jolteon managed to keep up despite being entirely quadrupedal, and none of the three wise ones were shying away from the dance at all. As they moved, the colours of the world melded around them and twisted into a beautiful painting. The funny-looking cotton candy Buneary bounced along the ground in such a tantalizing way.
Roxy took in a quick, sudden breath as she realized that she had started dreaming. She tried to return herself to wakefulness, noting that she must have dozed off. This was easier said than done, because she was so tired and the pillow she was laying on felt so warm and snuggly.
She felt her eyes drifting closed once more, and she actually let them remain closed for a few fleeting seconds. Sleep felt so blissful to her, no matter how badly she wanted to stay up and watch the rest of the festival. She squirmed herself a little and nuzzled her cheek into her soft, comfy pillow.
It took her far too long to realize that there were no pillows out in the wilderness. What in the world was she sleeping on? Roxy tilted her head slightly, trying to see what she had fallen asleep against, but all she saw was yellow.
Yellow fur.
It was warm, it was comfortable, and it belonged to someone else. Looking up at the face gazing down at her confirmed her fears.
"Sorry!" Roxy uttered as she quickly shot herself up into a sitting position. "I'm sorry, I- I- I…" Roxy was absolutely mortified. She could not have been more embarrassed. Her face was burning red so much that she was sure no-one could even see her cheek pouches. "I was just- I, mean- I'm sorry, I didn't…I just…"
"Roxy…"
Roxy clenched her eyes shut as the embarrassment flooded through her. Here was Makari showing her out to a nice evening and bringing her to this festival, and she falls asleep on him. She uses him as a pillow. 'What is wrong with you?!'she mentally screamed at herself.
"Roxy, come now…Stop your silliness."
"I- I'm sorry, M'kari…" she mumbled, "I didn't mean to…" She couldn't bring herself to look at him.
"I know, but I do not mind. I know that you are tired. You must know that there are much worse things to do than falling asleep on my side, right?"
"I, uhh… I…" She gulped. "I guess…?"
"It is okay, Roxy."
"But I'm so embarrassed…!"
Makari responded by suddenly pulling her into another hug. She yipped softly in surprise as he wrapped his forelegs around her and brought her in tight. "Now," he spoke, "If I did not want you leaning on me, would I do this?"
Roxy blinked. "I, uh…"
"That would be silly of me, would it not?"
"Y-yeah…" Roxy, though she was still feeling a little bashful, could not stop herself from yawning loudly. She looked up at Makari, but her eyes were starting to droop. "I…guess…" she mumbled lethargically.
"Let us return to my hut, then," Makari said softly, "Shall we?"
"Okay…"
Makari stood up on his hind legs and helped Roxy stand up as well. She yawned again, wanting to just close her eyes and sleep standing up.
"Come on, now…" Makari said as he took her paw and began to lead her away from the festival, grabbing one of the small torches to take with him. The drumming and the dancing continued, even as they faded into the distance.
It was a short walk back to Makari's hut. Getting up and walking was giving Roxy a little more energy, but she still moved slowly. Makari stayed beside her, keeping to her pace. Roxy was still a little embarrassed for having passed out on him like that, but right now she was just looking forward to a good night's sleep.
When they reached the hut, Makari parted the vines and carefully brought the torch inside without igniting anything. He placed it in the holder, allowing it to cast the entire inside of the hut in a gentle, flickering glow. Roxy exerted a great amount of self-control to keep from just flopping down on her stomach and sailing off to dream land.
Instead, she sat down neatly at the edge of her bedding. Makari stepped over and sat down on the bedding as well, turning so that they were facing each other.
Roxy was smiling, feeling all warm inside. "Thanks for taking me to the festival, Makari."
"It was my pleasure, Roxy," he replied, "I had a wonderful time."
"And, congratulations on your new mark."
He smiled and said, "Thank you."
Roxy glanced towards the doorway. She could still hear the sounds of the drums in the distance, but it didn't worry her. She was tired enough that she was sure she could sleep through them. "That was so amazing," she spoke softly, "This whole place is really amazing, Makari. It's so cool, all of the things you have done and everything you do, and…"
She turned back and looked at him once more. "In some ways…I'm glad I ended up here."
Makari was a little surprised by that remark. "Really?"
Roxy nodded. "I'm always going to remember the amazing things I saw here."
"Heh…" Makari chuckled, "I am so glad you approve. After all, it is not often that we get visitors…at all."
Roxy giggled. "Yeah, I guess you don't have a tourism board." She was sure that remark had gone right over Makari's head, but the other Pikachu laughed nonetheless.
For a moment, there was nothing but blissful silence. The two Pikachu were gazing into each other's eyes with smiles on their faces, hardly a care in the world. Roxy couldn't argue that she felt happy and safe in that moment. Aside from wanting to go home, Roxy wouldn't have changed a thing.
"Today was wonderful," she whispered, breaking the silence.
"It was," Makari agreed.
"I, um…I'm glad I could spend it with you…"
"As am I."
Roxy didn't feel any hesitation in saying those words, because they were the truth. Right now, Makari was the one she was happiest to be around. Makari was the one she had the most fun with and who made her feel the safest. He was the one she worried the most about when out on patrol. Though they were all wonderful in their own ways, Makari was so much more important to her than any of the other villagers.
Makari was also the one who caught her when she dozed off and started to pitch forward. Roxy awoke with a jolt, seeing that Makari had caught her by the shoulders and kept her from making a faceplant. He gently pushed her back upright, but kept his paws on her shoulders.
"Ah! I, uh… I'm…"
She was about to apologize yet again, but the last word died on her lips. She found herself much closer to him than before, staring deep into his hazel eyes. She could see the fire dancing in their reflection, casting upon them a strange and enticing little glint. She felt herself leaning on him slightly, and she could just feel how fit and strong he was from his forelimbs alone. He smelled like a forest after a fresh rain, which probably came from the newly-applied paint.
And, as always, he was still smiling.
His smile had always been there, even from the very beginning. When she had been afraid of him, it had been his smile that had helped calm her down. Makari was there for her when she was in trouble, no matter what the trouble was, and he was always smiling. His smile was infectious sometimes. It cheered her up, quelled her fears, and made things seem like they would somehow turn out all right.
She was happiest when she was close to him, and now she was closer than ever.
Roxy closed her eyes and darted forward, pressing her lips up against his. For a moment, she blocked out the outside world and focused only on him. In that brief, thrilling moment, she was closer to him than ever before. She savoured the feeling of closeness, the literal electricity of contact thanks to his Static, for as long as she dared.
Her eyes snapped open a few moments later and she quickly stumbled backwards. Her jaw hung open slightly and she stared wide-eyed at Makari in utter horror. She couldn't move and she hardly even breathed. Panic like she had never felt started coursing through her whole body.
What did you just do?!
"I-I-I-I…" she stammered, "I'm so sorry! I don't…I-I don't know why I did that…" Roxy was absolutely mortified at her actions. Never before had she wanted so badly to go back in time and undo such an utterly stupid move. Her heart was thumping like mad, but it didn't have much to do with the kiss.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry…" she murmured, covering her face with her forepaws. She felt like her whole body was turning red with embarrassment. "I'm sorry, that was really stupid. I dunno what came over me. I just thought I would- I mean, I…I-It's just that…Canwejustforgetithappened?"
"…Roxy…"
The young Pikachu whined in dismay. She was mentally berating herself for being such an idiot. "I'm sorry…" she whispered, "That was really stupid. I just felt… I just thought… I-I dunno…" She just wanted a hole to open up and swallow her whole. She couldn't even bear to look at Makari, or even be in the same place as him. Without a doubt, she had never been more embarrassed in her whole life.
A paw reached forward and touched her cheek. It gently shifted her chin so that she was looking forward once more. Roxy moved her paws away from her face, looking up in confusion like a frightened little Skitty.
Then, Makari leaned in and kissed her. Roxy's eyes shot open wide, her ears and her tail perked up, and there was a muffled yelp of surprise. For a moment, Roxy was paralyzed with shock. Makari was kissing her. Makari was kissing her! This wasn't a simple peck on the lips like hers had been, either. Makari was treating her to a deep, dizzying, passionate kiss.
For a few panic-filled moments, Roxy's eyes darted around as she tried frantically to figure out what was going on. She could feel Makari's paws hugging her, drawing her in close. After a moment, her eyelids started to droop as her eyes started to glaze over. Slowly, she began to melt into the kiss.
All of her worries faded away one by one. Her embarrassment, confusion, self-pity and anxiety all began to disappear. She hugged him back, and pressed herself into the wonderful kiss. A blissful warmth began to fill her whole body, making her feel relaxed and euphoric all at the same time. It was one of the most amazing things she had ever experienced in her whole life.
Lips parted, followed by gasps of breath. Roxy's brain was frozen for a moment, and then she turned her gaze upwards to lock eyes with Makari. Her heart was hammering like crazy in her chest. She couldn't seem to catch her breath, and she was blushing furiously. Little sparks of Makari's Static continued to dance across parts of her body, giving her a little shiver every now and again.
She wanted to say something. She felt like she had to say something, but it was as if Makari had stolen all of her words.
"Roxy…" he whispered, "There is no need to worry." He then adopted his familiar warm smile. "I feel the same way."
Time seemed to stop. Roxy just stared at him for a moment.
Did he say…?
Roxy double-checked to make sure she had heard him properly
Did he just say…?
A small smile appeared on her face, slowly growing larger with every passing second.
He did!
Roxy let out a squeal of joy and tackled Makari with another hug. The two went tumbling down to the ground, with Makari on his back and Roxy on top of him, but neither seemed to care. She leaned down and kissed him once more.
"Oh my gosh…!" she said breathlessly, hugging and nuzzling the other Pikachu.
Makari chuckled, blushing as well. "My, my, Roxy… I have never seen you this happy before."
Roxy was grinning ear to ear, affectionately nuzzling against Makari's cheek. She had felt his soft fur and the tingle of his Static before, but now they both seemed so much more wonderful. She didn't want to let him go. She wanted to stay this close to him forever.
"Makari…!"
He patted her on the back and returned her nuzzles.
"You've made me the happiest Pikachu in this whole forest…!"