Pokémon Nuzlocke Novels: Ancient Scarlet
Chapter 10: The Treasure Hunt
Another week rolled by at Naranja Academy, and the only event of note for Milo was discovering that Nemona got a discount at restaurants for being a League Official due to her status as Champion and the work she did on behalf of the Pokémon League.
Meaning Milo's efforts to pay the bill whenever the two of them went out to eat were generally overruled by Nemona, especially after she pointed out that she was filthy rich and an upperclassman. Milo made his arguments, but unfortunately he wasn't able to convince Nemona otherwise.
He made it up to the girl by doing some practice battles with her whenever these occasions did happen, which never failed to make Nemona happy.
One bright summer afternoon found Milo with a free afternoon during the school week. Apparently there was a big announcement later in the Courtyard on that day and most of the students were allowed to enjoy most of the day on campus before having to show up.
Nemona, however, had been quick to spoil in her excitement that this was to be the announcement of the independent study. Milo had managed to silence the excitable Champion before she ruined the surprise even more, but apparently this particular tradition of Naranja Academy was well-known in Paldea after last year's success.
Anyways, Milo, being the introvert that he was, decided to lock himself up in his room and enjoy a nice book while awaiting some kind of notification about the announcement.
Reggie, Cocoa and Sparky were napping around his feet while Milo himself was lying down against Koraidon's side, with the draconic Pokémon snoring softly behind him. Sometimes Milo truly was amazed that such a Pokémon had come under his care, and that it responded so well to him. He chalked it up to being another one of the weird but awesome things about his life now.
"The Voice has been quiet for a little while now…I wonder if it's gone away." Milo thought to himself, earning silence in response. The teen smirked and continued to enjoy his book in peace, enjoying the quiet and the bonding moment with his team as they just relaxed.
Milo looked up as a sudden chime echoed throughout the entire school. Several moments later the familiar voice of Director Clavell spoke through the PA system in the hallways. "Attention, all students. Today marks the beginning of an important new assignment. Please assemble in the schoolyard, where I will explain in detail."
The tone rang out again as Milo slowly stood up, smiling as he realized that this was likely the big announcement that Nemona had been hyping up. The big independent study that had allowed Nemona to achieve the Champion Rank. And speaking of Nemona-!
"IT'S TIIIME!" Nemona practically screamed as she burst into the room, with Milo giving her a bewildered look. He could have sworn he had deadbolted and locked the door that Nemona just sauntered through.
"I must've forgotten somehow…weird." Milo thought to himself with a frown before shaking it off and smiling at his hyperactive neighbor.
"Good morning, Champ. How's it going?" Milo said to Nemona, who beamed at him and pumped her fists like she was shadow-boxing. She stopped a few moments later as Milo laughed quietly at her enthusiasm.
"I'm hyped! And happy! Did you hear that announcement?" Nemona asked Milo, who nodded before the girl continued. "I've been waiting FOREVER for this! C'mon, let's go out to the schoolyard!"
"Yeah, yeah. Let me grab my stuff." Milo said as he walked over to desk and grabbed his backpack. He took a moment to let his team all wake up properly before returning his four Pokémon and walking back over to Nemona, who looked like she was about to start pacing back and forth if Milo didn't hurry up.
"We gotta get to the schoolyard! Director's orders!" Nemona called as she opened the door to her neighbor, who obeyed the girl and walked out his front door. After letting Nemona through, Milo quickly locked it and practically jogged to the courtyard. Along the way he passed Juliana, who looked confused at their hurried pace but made no effort to hurry up as she walked and chatted with the twins and Nalani.
Upon arriving at the courtyard, the faculty began shepherding students into organized rows. It took longer than expected, especially since there was an outburst from Team Star who attempted to spread the word about their group by marching into the courtyard with megaphones. They were promptly chased off by some of the older students before the teachers could do much. Milo just shook his head in annoyance at the group causing a ruckus for no reason.
Eventually the school was assembled in the courtyard and Director Clavell walked on stage with a somewhat exasperated expression, adjusting his tie as he approached the podium. Upon seeing the assembled students of Naranja Academy, the Director's expression lightened considerably.
"Excellent. It seems everyone is here." Director Clavell said with a pleased smile, looking out over the sea of students as he tapped the mic on his collar. "Well then, it's time that I explained your independent study assignment. As usual, the theme will be A Treasure Hunt!"
"Yes! So exciting!" Nemona whispered, barely keeping herself from bouncing in place.
"I ask each of you to set out and travel the world in search of your own treasure." Clavell proclaimed, his voice echoing across the schoolyard. "You have all learned much within the walls of our fine academy...But now it is time to turn your eyes upon the wider world and deepen your understanding. Explore Paldea's abundant nature, soak in its rich culture...discover the Pokémon that live here...and get to know the people, too."
"Where will you travel? Who will you meet? And what will you achieve?" Clavell asked, allowing himself a small chuckle. "Of course, your Pokémon partners will be there to help you. You will journey together...learn new things together...share each other's thoughts and feelings...and find something you might always treasure!"
Clavell looked down at the students with a warm smile. "I look forward to welcoming you all back after your independent study...when you return to us as fine young Trainers! Let the Treasure Hunt begin! Onward!"
The crowd erupted into a roar of cheers, with many unable to contain their excitement that the fabled Treasure Hunt had at long last started. Milo looked over at Nemona, who was now bouncing up and down with unrestrained glee.
Milo and Juliana looked at one another and matched one another's grins. The crowd began to disperse, with students heading back to their rooms to grab their bags and go. Some had even carried their travel packs with them and were already on their way out of Mesagoza.
Milo was in the former category. Arven had told him to make sure he had packed to leave the school and be able to be on the road for at least a week, and Milo had taken that advice to heart. He had stocked up on several MRE meals at a military surplus store that had been on the east side of town as well as plenty of medical and camping equipment. Nemona had even given him some pointers on some brands to buy and what to avoid, and considering that the Champion Rank Trainer spent weeks at a time out in the wilderness when in the throes of her hunger for battles, Milo took her at her word. Between Nemona and Arven's advice, as well as his own research, Milo felt prepared for anything.
A tap on the shoulder snapped Milo out of his musings, and he glanced to his left to see Juliana grinning at him. "Hey! You ready to get outta here?"
"Yeah, I'm ready to explore. You got your bag packed? I'm already good to go." Milo asked Juliana, who shook her head.
"I've got to finish packing. You go on ahead. I'll catch up with you later!" Juliana said brightly, extending a fist out that Milo tapped with his own. A minute later the two students had separated, going to their respective rooms. Milo opened his door and did a once-over of the room and snagged an extra drink from the fridge before heading out.
Thankfully item capsules were something his Mom had given him plenty of before he left, so he had anything and everything he could have possibly needed to bring.
Five minutes later Milo was inside the Entranceway of Naranja Academy with an eager grin that wasn't even tempered by the ominous storm clouds overhead, threatening a fierce downpour very soon. Milo walked out of the front doors to the Academy as dozens of students sprinted past him, shouting and hollering loudly.
"First one out is a rotten egg!"
"I can't wait to find me some treasure! Maybe I'll find gold! Hahaha!"
"Toma ya! It's time for the great outdoors!"
Milo stood in front of the door, smiling at the sheer excitement in the air. He happened to be standing next to a girl who was standing next to a strange lizard-like Pokémon that vaguely resembled Koraidon that Milo recognized now as a Cyclizar. He heard the girl hop atop her Pokémon while shouting, "Come on, Cyclizar! We're riding out!"
The Pokémon cried out and charged off with its Trainer in tow. Milo watched the duo dash down the stairs, but was surprised when a moment later Director Clavell walked through the doors and shouted out, "Take care, everyone! And remember-the Great Crater of Paldea is exceedingly dangerous! Entering it is a violation of school rules!"
Milo was about to ask about that, but was distracted by Nemona running past him. "What're you waiting for, Milo? Let's go!"
"Man, she just never runs out of energy does she?" Milo remarked with a fond smile, taking the girl's enthusiasm in stride as she dashed away.
"Indeed. I must admit, I am happy to see that she's made such a steadfast friend in you, Master Milo." Director Clavell remarked, causing the boy to look at the Director in surprise. He offered the boy a somber smile in return. "Not all of your peers have been as understanding as you when it comes to Miss Nemona's appetite for Pokémon Battles. In all honesty, I've noticed that she's been much happier at the Academy since you arrived."
Milo actually blushed at that statement, causing Clavell to chuckle. "Friends are to be cherished, Master Milo. I hope you will help Miss Nemona grow throughout your Treasure Hunt, just as she will surely help you grow. The Treasure Hunt is designed to assist students in self-discovery and allow them to blossom into the people they want to be."
"Interesting…Well, I guess I'll have to start by exploring Paldea to see what kind of trouble I can get into." Milo responded with a shrug, causing Clavell to frown after a moment's thought.
"I do hope that trouble keeps you away from the Great Crater of Paldea, Master Milo. I wasn't joking when I remarked how dangerous that location is." Clavell warned the boy before his expression became thoughtful. "Hmm. Do you think everyone heard my warning? With the students so full of vim and vigor, I find it hard not to worry."
"I'm sure it'll be fine sir. I've gotta catch up with Nemona, so I'll hopefully see you around!" Milo said respectfully before charging off after his neighbor, who was impatiently waiting for him by the stairs.
"Milo! Milo!" Nemona called out, waving frantically to the boy while grinning from ear-to-ear. "The Treasure Hunt-it's finally starting!"
"So what're we supposed to do?" Milo asked Nemona, who blinked before looking somewhat embarrassed.
"Yeah, fair question, since it's your first time! C'mon, let's walk and talk!" Nemona said brightly as she skipped down the stairs. Milo followed her, but slowed his steps as he noticed a curtain of rain approaching the city from the south. Mere moments later, it began to lightly drizzle onto Naranja Academy, and Milo hurried after his neighbor.
"The Treasure Hunt is a-" Nemona began to explain as Milo caught up with her, the Champion seemingly uncaring about the storm about to hit the city. Fortunately for her, Milo did care and he was prepared.
"Hold on, before we go further." Milo interrupted the girl as he reached into his backpack and pulled out a large black umbrella. The Galarian opened the umbrella and moved it over his and Nemona's head, shielding them from the drizzle that less than ten seconds later became a steady shower. "Last thing I want is you involuntarily having a wet T-shirt contest here in Mesagoza with all of the students out. You do realize we're all wearing white shirts, right?"
Nemoan glanced down and then laughed sheepishly, rubbing the back of her head as she realized what Milo had meant. He was surprised to see that Nemona was actually blushing. "Y-you're not wrong! Talk about embarrassing…Thanks for the save, Milo."
"Anytime. So tell me about this Treasure Hunt." Milo said as the two of them continued down the steps rather carefully, aware that the storm was making the steps slick now thanks to the water.
"Right! So the Treasure Hunt is a huge part of the Naranja Academy school year." Nemona explained as they carefully made their way down the steps, with Milo carefully angling the umbrella so that it kept them mostly dry. Milo may or may not have also angled the umbrella so that it covered Nemona more than him, but thankfully no one cared enough to point that fact out.
"The point isn't to get us all looking for some actual hidden treasure, necessarily…" Nemona went on as they reached one of the sub-plazas on the steps. Milo remembered this spot as the one where he infamously took down two Team Star Grunts, which made him a celebrity on campus.
"Is there actually buried treasure in Paldea?" Milo asked out of curiosity, with Nemona shrugging casually.
"Depends on what you mean. There's legends of cursed treasure, according to Miss Raifort. And there was an age of piracy for a lengthy period of time at the height of the Paldean Empire. But these days? Nah. Really, we're more just making our own adventures to see what experiences Paldea's got to offer!" Nemona said brightly as a flash of lightning ripped across the sky, with the sound of thunder booming a few moments later.
"You could try to beat Pokémon Gyms, you could help out people in need…You actually could hunt for real capital-T treasure if you wanted, even!" Nemona said with a wink, laughing for a moment. "There's stuff we'd never learn sitting in a classroom, y'know? This is our chance to learn it!"
"True. Real life does teach you a lot that books and school can't." Milo commented, fighting the urge to shrug because he didn't want to shift the umbrella.
"Plus there's so many chances to battle, which is obviously perfect for me!" Nemona finished brightly as Milo smiled at his battle-fanatic friend.
"The first step in combating an addiction is admitting you have one." Milo said jokingly, causing Nemona to snort with amusement. As they reached the end of the steps, the duo walked onto the large multi-colored star mural at the heart of Mesagoza. Nemona turned to Milo and said, "You and me for sure gotta battle if we run into each other out there! Hope you're ready!"
"You're on, neighbor." Milo responded, giving her a thumbs up. He still felt a thrill of dread at the mere thought of putting his life on the line with whatever battles lay in wait for him, but he had to admit that he had come to truly enjoy being a Trainer so far. It was everything he wanted it to be, even with the Nuzlocke Curse looming overhead. And in making friends like Nemona and Arven, and of course being able to spend time with Juliana again, he was happy.
"Oh yeah-battling can wait. I meant to tell you…Did you know your phone's map lets you set yourself destinations?" Nemona asked Milo, who blinked in surprise because he actually hadn't known that all. Even after about two full months of having the Rotom Phone! "You could try setting one of the Gyms as your destination! That'd get you on your way easy!"
"Tch! How's that for a Student Council President! Giving your friends an insider advantage?" an annoyed but familiar voice drawled. Nemona and Milo turned around and spotted Arven walking down the stairs holding a Sinistea-patterned umbrella.
"Ay! A-Arven!" Nemona yelped, completely thrown off by the sudden appearance of the teen. She recovered a moment later, frowning at him. "Insider advantage? Sheesh, you make it sound like we're cheating or something! All I did was suggest that he check out the Gyms. It's up to Milo whether he goes."
"Milo's gonna have his hands full searching out Titan Pokémon with me. He doesn't have time to waste on something like chasing after the Champion Rank." Arven shot back before looking at Milo meaningfully. "Me and him are gonna be too busy visiting the lairs of Titans and nabbing their Herba Mystica!"
Nemona actually gasped in surprise at that, scowling at Arven. It was the most irritated Milo had ever seen the girl. "En serio? Don't go filling his head with weird stories! Not only are those things not real, the areas they're purported to be in are dangerous!"
"Hey! All I did was invite him along. It's still up to Milo whether he goes, right?" Arven shot back, smirking at Nemona as she growled with frustration. Milo could practically see the sparks flying between the two, but he also was getting frustrated with his two friends for fighting over him like this.
"Hey, can we just cut this out for a sec and-" Milo began to say, only for his phone to ring loudly and cut him off.
"Hm? Milo, your phone's ringing." Arven pointed out as the phone leapt out of Milo's pocket and faced him, with the phone auto-accepting the call. To Milo's surprise a familiar question appeared on the phone, and a distorted voice greeted him.
"Hey, Milo. Cassiopeia here. It's about Operation Starfall. Remember what I told you before?"
"About Team Star? Yeah, what about it? You haven't contacted me in a while. Are you finally gonna tell me what the hell is going on?" Milo asked as Nemona and Arven stared at him with confusion.
"Team Star is made up of five individual squads. And each one's got their own base. I need you to go to each base-all five of 'em-and beat the squad boss there. Team Star's grunts might try and get in your way, but I'll be helping you out…from a distance."
"Naturally. I have a feeling you're not done, though." Milo remarked, hearing a distorted chuckle from Cassiopeia.
"You're sharp. No, that's not all. I also wanted to give you a heads-up that the Bosses each specialize in a different Pokémon type. Just remember the names of their crews, and you'll figure it out. Still, no need to worry. With your skills, I'm sure you're more than up to the task."
"Oh, I'm sure it'll go just dandy. Me against an entire gang with my three barely-trained Pokémon." Milo responded sarcastically, not even bothering to hide his frustration. Normally he'd be more tactful, but Nemona and Arven arguing over him had put him in an annoyed mood.
"I'll just go ahead and add the bases' locations to your phone for you." Milo wasn't even surprised this time as the data loaded automatically in his phone, showing the names and faces of the five Team Star bosses, as well as their locations and what type each crew specialized in. Milo was also unsurprised when a familiar chime echoed in his mind and the Voice chuckled menacingly.
"Oh hey, you're still there. I was hoping you went away." Milo thought at the Voice, who scoffed within his mind.
Not a chance. I just had no reason to be interested in your school life. The Curse didn't even trigger because most of that stuff doesn't matter for your journey, despite what you may think.
"Good luck with those bosses. I'll hook you up with some nice rewards every time you beat one. And don't worry about going after them immediately. Like you said, you're a relatively new Trainer. If you wanted to take some time and get your crew powered up I completely understand. Getting someone hurt is the last thing I want out of all of this."
"Wait one second! Who are you supposed to be?!" Nemona demanded angrily, shouting at Cassiopeia who had gone silent. It was the first time Milo had seen her shout in such a manner. "And Team Star-those punks are a serious hazard! They're not Milo's problem!"
"That's right! Because he's got more important things to do, like searching out awesome ingredients with me!" Arven interjected unhelpfully, causing Nemona to glare at him while Milo simply raised an eyebrow. "Hey, can't fault a guy for trying."
To their surprise, Cassiopeia chuckled over the phone. "I thought it was up to Milo to decide whether he goes or not…Isn't that what you said, Nemona Valdez? And Arven Sada?"
Both of Milo's friends looked stunned that Cassiopeia knew exactly who they were. Nemona even sputtered out, "How do you know my-?"
"I'm looking forward to seeing what you can pull off, Milo. Bye." Cassiopeia hung up the phone, shutting down the conversation before either Arven or Nemona could recover their wits.
"What was that all about?" Arven muttered, putting his hands on his hips. He then blinked and lowered his umbrella. "Huh. Rain finally stopped. Nice."
Milo also noticed that the rain had stopped and lowered his umbrella, closing it and collapsing it but not quite putting it away just yet. Nemona shook her head and looked towards Milo with a worried expression. "Milo…I'm glad you're making plenty of friends here, but try not to get dragged into anything dangerous."
"I'll try." Milo remarked, feeling somewhat guilty. After all, if he lost a battle while under the Nuzlocke Curse, he'd be dead. Things couldn't get more dangerous than that.
Nemona perked up again after hearing Milo's response, grinning excitedly at him. "Anyway! No more weird vibes-we've got a big adventure to start!"
"So what's next for you?" Milo asked Nemona, wondering just what the Champion Rank Trainer would be doing for her independent study.
"I'm gonna battle every single Pokémon Trainer I meet!" Nemona declared, surprising no one present.
"Called it." Milo and Arven remarked at the same time, exchanging a brief smirk. Nemona stuck her tongue out at the two boys in response before continuing.
"If I just keep trying to become the strongest, I bet that experience will be the thing I treasure!" Nemona continued, crossing her arms and looking down as she shut her eyes, thinking about the matter. "Guess I'll start by heading to a Gym and training up some new Pokémon! Here, I'll send you a pic of what the Gym buildings look like, Milo!"
Nemona quickly pulled out her Rotom Phone and a few taps of the screen later, Milo received a picture of an official-looking building with a Poké Ball symbol and another symbol inside of it.
"Thanks Nemona. I'll keep an eye out." Milo promised the girl, who gave him a dazzling smile of happiness.
"Oh, and…" Nemona trailed off for a moment, glancing at Arven before looking at Milo meaningfully. "I know we've been running our mouths, but it's your call what to do, Milo. Go where you want, and do what it is you really wanna do the most!"
"A treasure…of our very own…" Arven muttered darkly as he considered the dilemma for himself, his expression becoming serious. "For me, that's got to be Ma-Er, my big dream of tracking down the Herba Mystica, that is!"
Now it was Nemona and Milo's turn to exchange a brief glance, but one of a bit more of concern. Arven continued as if he hadn't almost said something he didn't mean to by declaring, "Once we get those herbs, I'll make you the absoluuute best sandwich you've had in your life!"
Milo opened his mouth to respond to that, but a Poké Ball on his hip opened and in a flash of light Koraidon appeared, letting out a growl. Arven's smile immediately turned into a scowl of disgust.
"Argh! What'd you come out for?" Arven demanded furiously before catching himself, mostly because Milo gave him a sharp look. Meanwhile Nemona burst into a loud cackle, clutching her stomach as she laughed uncontrollably.
"Oh my gosh! Did it seriously come out 'cause you said sandwich? Hahaha!" Nemona wheezed with delight, with Milo even smiling at the possibility. It did make sense. Koraidon had popped out of its Poké Ball several times during lunch and dinner and seemed to prefer sandwiches. It certainly enjoyed the one his Mom had made for him when they had first met.
"Well, you're not getting one…" Arven grumbled as Milo walked towards Koraidon, who barked in Milo's direction before lowering itself slightly.
Nemona hummed before commenting, "It seems like it wants you to start moving…Is it telling you to get on, Milo?"
The boy shrugged his shoulders and walked over to Koraidon and then sat atop the strange creature, who shimmered white for several seconds before transforming slightly as the top of its body became coated in softer feathers, making the 'seat' that Milo was sitting on considerably more comfortable. The group also noticed that Koraidon's tail was now coiled into its lower body, which would likely allow the Pokémon to move easier. Milo put his hands on two of the armor-like pieces that were sticking out in front of him as if they were handlebars on a bike before grinning at his two friends.
"Whoa, it transformed! Now it REALLY looks like some kinda weird Cyclizar!" Nemona let out a whoop of excitement. "As long as you've got Koraidon, you can go pretty much anywhere! Paldea's your Cloyster!"
Arven looked distinctly troubled as he looked at Milo atop the Koraidon. He looked away and muttered, "Hmph…Yeah? Maybe."
"Arven, you good?" Milo asked, genuinely considered. Nemona looked at Arven as well, almost sensing his unease.
The older teen waved a hand dismissively before saying, "Well, if you're going to search out those Titan Pokémon, I'd say set out from the east gate!"
"But since Milo is ACTUALLY headed to take on some Gyms, I'd say go for the west gate!" Nemona chimed in, earning a dirty look from Arven. "Besides, it's way too easy to get lost out east!"
Arven rolled his eyes at Nemona. "Tch! Man, this is why I can't get along with you…" Arven remarked with an irritated sigh before looking at Milo with a small smirk. "I'm out of here!" Catch up soon, little buddy!"
"Later!" Milo called to Arven as he took off, and within moments the teen was out of sight. He then turned to Nemona and said, "So, you heading off too?"
"I'll head to a Gym." Nemona answered, grinning at Milo. "Gotta get started sooner rather than later! See you around, Milo!"
Milo watched Nemona depart (respectfully), but chose to sit in silence on top of Koraidon for several moments before saying, "Let's get moving, buddy. Come on!"
"Aaaagis!" Koraidon agreed as Milo urged the Pokémon forward. He very quickly found that Koraidon could travel at a fairly steady pace, and could manage a complete lap of the city in less than a half hour. The teen also discovered that he could control Koraidon with the handlebars like an actual motorcycle or bike, so Milo was able to get some practice in riding the strange Cyclizar that he had befriended.
However, after three laps around the city, Milo realized he was stalling. He didn't know what path he wanted to take. So he decided to voice his concerns to a certain entity that he knew for sure was listening.
"So where do you think I should go? After all the cryptic crap you've been saying, how do I even start this journey?" Milo asked quietly, letting out a soft exhale as Koraidon looked back at him with confusion.
So now your paths are open to you. Eighteen different Objectives scattered throughout the region. Each tied to the three individuals who seek your involvement. Eight Gyms. Five Titans. Five Team Star Bosses. What I can tell you is that the Objectives will come in various difficulties, with some being tougher than others. These Objectives make up the core of your journey here…at the conclusion of that journey, you'll be free from the Nuzlocke Curse and you win the game. If you win, you're free to spend your life however you wish with no strings attached.
"Go on…"
You can choose to tackle the Gym Circuit, embracing your desire to become a strong Trainer despite the risk.
"I owe Nemona for everything she's done, and I've wanted to be a strong Pokémon Trainer more than anything else. But that means a lot of battles, and that means risking losing my Pokémon…and my own life."
You can choose to help Arven investigate the Titans and track down the mysterious Herba Mystica.
"Arven's a friend, but I don't know if I buy his story about wanting to make sandwiches with these things for the hell of it. Something's off…But I can't call him out on it. Maybe I'll figure out what's going on there. I dunno."
Or you can fight the Bosses of Team Star in an attempt to shut down the group and help Cassiopeia. And perhaps figure out what her angle is.
"That's the one I have the least investment in. Team Star has annoyed me precisely once, and I don't care enough to risk my life to deal with them. I'll wait a little while before I decide to do that." Milo said as he pulled out his Rotom Phone, studying the map. "I don't know. I really don't. Nemona wants to see what I can do, Arven's counting on my help, and Cassiopeia is capable of making things really weird if I don't at least try and sort out Team Star with her. I just wanted to make friends and be a Trainer…is that worth risking my life for?"
The more important question is…are the things you'll experience on your journey worth the price you might pay? You're concerned about losing your Pokémon. Losing your life. You'll only lose those things if your Pokémon are defeated. Simply be good enough to not lose and you have nothing to worry about.
"Easy for you to say. You're not the one with everything to lose." Milo muttered, and for several long moments the Voice was silent. When it spoke, the words came slowly and carefully.
If you really want, I can guide you. I already know how hard of a time you'd have against any of the Gyms, Titans or Bosses. For example, Cortondo and the Bug Gym there would be the easiest for you to handle right now, as opposed to attempting to battle the Lurking Steel Titan or the Fairy Boss of Team Star.
"How can I trust that you're not just trying to send me to my death?" Milo asked the Voice, who responded with a twisted chuckle.
You don't. But I will say that it'd be very boring to watch your journey end in such a way. We made a deal, you and I. I intend to see what you're really made of, kid. So how about it? You follow my instructions, and maybe have an easier time of things? Or do you really want to risk biting off more than you can chew right now?
Milo thought about it with some annoyance, but try as he might he didn't have a concrete argument against what the Voice was suggesting. Milo didn't know Paldea that well yet, and the Voice seemed to be omnipotent. If completing his journey was the key to escaping the Nuzlocke Curse and the deadly challenge he found himself in, then he'd be stupid not to turn down the help.
Plus, he had heard that Cortondo was a place beginner Trainers visited first on the Gym Circuit, so there was no reason to doubt that logic. Nemona had even suggested heading to it before too. Milo considered it for another few minutes, patting Koraidon on the head as he deliberated. Finally, with a heavy sigh and a muttered curse, Milo made a decision.
"I'll check Cortondo out then. Consider this me trusting you on a trial basis. But don't think I'm going to just do whatever you say whenever you say it." Milo asserted as he turned Koraidon towards the west and began heading that way. The Voice snickered within Milo's mind, clearly amused.
If you say so. Once you leave the city, I'll have new instructions for you. It's time to expand your little team and get this adventure really going.
FINALLY! Now the interesting part begins! Milo gets his next few catches and the run begins in earnest. How's it going to go down? Tune in next chapter to find out!
Shoutout to BraviaryScout for reviewing the last update! You indeed rule, good sir.
That's all for now everyone! Please be sure to favorite/follow, review and kudos and all that cool stuff. Don't forget this story is also being cross-posted on AO3 if that's your jam instead of this site.
Next update will be sometime during the week after the Indigo Disk drops. I need time to play the DLC and figure out any future implications for the story.
Take care and stay awesome!
Until next time, FlygonNick out!
