"This would go much faster if I had a smoke," muttered Tanuma.
In the dusty storage room, Tanuma let out a bored yawn as he rummaged through the worn-out camping bag. Its sorry state revealed little about the ghost girl he was researching. A woman prepared to go on a long camping excursion with no passport or money to speak of. Wherever she was going, she wouldn't have made it far.
Among her belongings were the freaky-looking phone and a pair of red and white balls, providing no helpful clues either.
With a nonchalant stretch, Tanuma decided to move on, the room falling silent as he made his way out. He had a computer to hunch over and favors from heroes to call in.
Click.
Just as he was about to exit, a peculiar sound caught his attention, causing him to pause. Slowly, he turned back towards the desk, hand hovering over his holster. Approaching slowly he found that one of the balls had mysteriously opened, defying his efforts to open it himself.
A sudden noise behind him jolted him into action, spinning around to face a shadowy figure standing just a few feet away.
Instinctively, Tanuma drew his gun, his voice trailing off in confusion. His quirk quickly understood that the creature before him came from the open ball. "What the heck are you—?"
Before he could finish his sentence, Marshadow swiftly leaped into the air, knocking Tanuma unconscious with a well-placed blow.
A sly grin crossed Marshadow's face. The impish Pokemon sent a reassuring pulse through the bond, swiftly collecting his foolish partners' belongings. Of course, he had to be the one to save her. She was smart, but not as astute as he.
He easily swiped the keys from the pathetic human who dared to stand in his way. He ignored the useless wave of impatience and worry from Uma and slipped into the shadows.
His world was shrouded in darkness (just as he preferred it) as he traveled undetected through the strange building. He maneuvered past legs and desks, following the shortening tether that attached the two to one another (his human still wasn't as skilled as he, and he couldn't help his silent giggle; because she still could not locate him as he could her, another victory he held over her) until he stood before an secluded corridor.
Marshadow materialized before Uma's cell. The tension in the hall lifted as she let out a quiet, relieved sigh.
As silently as possible, Uma reached out with steady hands to grasp Marshadow's form, lifting him to reach the lock that kept her imprisoned. When they heard the telltale click, she wasted no time in pushing the heavy door open, stepping out into the hall, and gathering her belongings.
Now, came the hard part.
While Marshadow effortlessly glided through shadows with Spectral Thief, Uma unfortunately could not. Time was of the essence, as she heard the whispers as the days passed. She was declared an enemy of the state and was going to be moved elsewhere that very night.
Uma had her own agenda, and languishing in yet another cell was not on her to-do list.
Patiently biding her time until the change in guard rotation, Uma discreetly slipped into a nearby closet, anticipating the arrival of the new guard. When the moment came, Marshadow expertly incapacitated the guard, allowing Uma to swiftly change into his uniform and lock him in her former cell.
She found herself slightly grateful that those bastard heroes had kept her isolated. It made escaping a lot less stressful.
Surprisingly, it was a walk in the park for Uma to nonchalantly stroll out of the building, blending seamlessly into her newfound disguise. The station was abuzz with her transfer, so no one paid any heed when a lone officer waltzed out the door.
Uma kept her head down, police cap low over her eyes, and walked faster through the crowded street. Marshadow followed closely behind her, carrying her bag. They had only two minutes to be far enough away from the station before Marshadow reached his limit and became visible. She made a beeline for the nearby forest she had glimpsed from the police car earlier on.
As she walked, blending into the crowd, snippets of conversation and snatches of news drifted her way. "Breaking News: Pro Hero Fatgum strikes again, apprehending the notorious villain: The Monstress Summoner," echoed through the street, sending a shiver down her spine. Uma paused, her focus drawn to a vibrant display of moving pictures showcasing a dapper woman delivering the latest news updates.
"Keep moving," Uma murmured to herself, her eyes darting around the crowded street. She could feel the weight of the glances thrown her way, but she hoped her police cap was enough to blend in. "Don't attract attention."
As she took a few steps forward, the vivid display she had noticed earlier now broadcasted a grave message: "Due to the villains' evil transgressions, there has been tragic loss in the Hero Community. A dedicated police force member has fallen in the line of duty."
The words hit Uma like a ton of bricks, her heart skipping a beat. She froze, her hand unconsciously reaching to grip the white tattoo on her hand. The reporter, a stern-faced woman with a deep voice, continued, "The fallen hero's family has asked for the community to keep them in your prayers. He was a good man and a friend to all. " Uma's breath hitched in her throat. A family. A good man.
Dead.
The scene around her grew blurry as her eyes filled with tears. The crowd had begun spitting venomous phrases, hate for the Montress Summoner. Then, Uma flinched when she saw her own face staring back at her.
"This individual is highly dangerous and is currently en route to Tartarus. However, in case the citizens of Esha see this face on the street, please run away and contact the nearest hero available." Intoned the news reporter. "In other news..."
She was suffocating under the weight of her guilt, knowing her mistakes had led to this tragedy. She had been the one to bring the Legendary Pokemon into this world. She had committed a crime - taken a life. A pursuit was the least she deserved.
Marshadow tugged at her hand gently, a silent reminder of their dwindling time. Uma took a deep breath, her hands trembling as she wiped her eyes. She had to keep moving. For Uche and Burnet. For everyone who had been caught in the crossfire of her arrival.
The forest beckoned, offering refuge from the chaos of the city. She didn't look back at the news display (she was a coward-too scared to turn herself back in-but she already knew that).
With renewed urgency, Uma plunged into the green embrace of the trees, the sounds of the city fading behind her. The narrow path was a tight squeeze, with thick bushes grabbing at her clothes and low branches knocking against her. She couldn't let the grief consume her; she had a job to do: to get back to her world as quickly as possible.
A man, utterly unremarkable and barely known within his unit, arrived at the HPSC headquarters, and the atmosphere was tense.
Staff members bustled in groups, their eyes glued to his person. They were all lower staff, ignorant of most ongoings (besides whatever rumors they heard about the newly established quirk category) but they still noticed the tension. He ignored the murmurs and continued running until he burst into the conference room, his face flushed with adrenaline and fear.
"They're everywhere," he panted. "The wormholes- they're popping up everywhere." The room erupted into a cacophony of noise and gasps.
The chairperson of the Hero Public Safety Commission, a stern woman with a sharp jaw and piercing grey eyes, slowly stood from her seat at the head of the table. "Calm yourselves. We will shut this situation down before it escalates," she bellowed. "We can't have these...creatures running amok."
The room grew quiet as she scanned the faces around her. "As President of the HPSC, my number one job is to ensure the protection of our citizens." Madam's glacier orbs flinted before narrowing. "By any means necessary... Is there a reason you're still standing there?"
Every head who sat at the conference table turned his way and the unknown man stiffened. He straightened his spine and held back a flinch when his eyes met Madam President's cold stare. He bowed deeply. "At exactly 18:00 this evening, the terrorist had escaped Esuha's police custody. A search party has been sent, but so far no one has tracked her."
The man held his breath, waiting to lift his head. As the silence dragged on for minutes, sweat started to trickle into his eyes. When he finally dared to look up, his eyes went wide with shock before he quickly dropped his head again - and blood sprayed everywhere. His lifeless body crumpled to the floor, warm and limp, a pool of blood spreading across the hardwood.
Madam President coolly set her weapon on the table, the soft thud a thunder clap in the deafening silence that followed.
"We need to take charge of the situation. It's clear someone dropped the ball, and now we're at risk of the public becoming aware. All hands on deck for a mass digital detox. I will call for a silent headhunter—we need to track down the girl responsible for this and bring her to justice."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the room. It was clear that action needed to be taken, but the how remained uncertain. Some suggested deploying the top agents immediately, while others cautioned against it, arguing that not enough information had been gathered. Madam President took her seat. The fate of an entire city—no, potentially the world—was resting on her shoulders.
As the debate grew heated, she calmly broke through the chaos. "We must proceed with caution," said Madam. "We cannot risk creating more panic than necessary. CV cameras already captured the footage of her arrival. We know that upon entrance, these creatures came with her. Gathering intel is not enough. We control her and we control the threat level." She looked around the room, her gaze resting on their resident prodigy. "We will send our best reconnaissance member to investigate."
The room fell silent, all eyes on Madam President. The tension was palpable, like a thick fog that no one dared to cut through. The wormholes, as terrifying as they were, didn't deserve to be vilified without understanding. But as the images of their destruction and fear played out on the screens around her, she briefly entertained the idea of a coexisting society. Could humans and these quirked animals ever truly find peace together?
"Let's not forget what happens when we let our dreams of peace get too far ahead of us," Madam said softly, drumming a manicured nail on a classified file."Gain perspective. It is only a matter of time before the unthinkable happens again."
If war was approaching, then she'd ensure that humanity came out on the winning side.
An easygoing and flippant drawl cut through her musing. "And when should I go to retrieve the target?"
At this, Madam smirked. "Now."
The pro hero left the room in a blur of crimson feathers.
Leaping into the air, Hawks streaked through the night, his silhouette slicing through the stars, and the wind whipped past his sharp wings as he made his way to Esuha's Police Station. His thoughts swirled like the eddies of a storm as he contemplated the implications of bringing the foreign, quirkless woman into the very place that represented the flaws he despised. The HPSC had made improvements, sure, but the government's shadowy influence remained, lurking like a silent predator waiting for the right moment to pounce.
Before taking off, he'd thoroughly reviewed her files. The story was wild - a woman, likely around his own age, had seemingly dropped from the sky. It was debated if it was a quirk oddity until traces of dark matter were caught. That's when things got really crazy - mythical creatures started pouring out of wormholes, and the HPSC was desperately trying to keep the whole thing hush-hush. They were scrambling, caught unprepared.
The organization that always claimed to be ready for anything was left hilariously embarrassed. The frantic search for the clueless outsider felt more like a punishment for her than a genuine effort to keep people safe.
But no one asked him, so he kept his thoughts to himself.
As he approached the gleaming, plain building, the lights from the city below cast eerie shadows across its facade. Hawks knew that Hero Society represented a bastion of justice, but it had been tainted by the same darkness that he always had railed against in his youth. Yet, it was also the place where he could get the answers he needed.
The doors to the station slammed open as Hawks flew in, the air thick with the scent of burnt coffee and the metallic tang of anxiety. Hawks briefly met eyes with Fatgum, who munched on chips behind a too-small desk. He gave the other hero a cheeky wave. The room fell silent as Chief Kuroo, his eyes a storm of anger and frustration, turned to face him.
"Where have you been?" Kuroo bellowed, his fur raised and twitching.
"Been busy saving folks, and I kissed a couple of babies in the town over," Hawks replied calmly, his smile never leaving. "Mothers love a hero that saves them from burning buildings."
"I want her off the streets," Kuroo turned his attention back to addressing his unit, ignoring the sarcastic blonde. "But we can't do it without a trail. We need to understand her motives, her connections, everything!" He began to pace, pushing past other officers. "How did she slip through our fingers? That Monster Summoner terrorist is out there wreaking havoc and we're no closer to catching her!"
An officer rushed in, panting heavily, and saluted. "Chief, we've got a mugshot, fingerprints, and a name. But that's it. Her file is empty."
Kuroo's eyes bugled. "That's unacceptable. The HPSC is breathing down my neck and we're no closer to catching her than we were 5 hours ago! We need to get the villain to Tartarus; I want results, and I want them yesterday."
The Chief's outburst sent a jolt of anticipation through Hawks. This was his cue. He pushed off the wall with a quiet grace, the shadows seemingly reluctant to release him. "Yo, Chief," he said, his voice laced with traces of boredom. His words cut through the silence like a knife. "That's what I'm here for. I'd like to offer my quirk, Fierce Wings, to help track her down."
All eyes in the room swiveled to him, and Kuroo's glare was like a spotlight. "And what do you get out of this? You're not even a part of the case." The Chief eyes narrowed, scrutinizing him.
Hawks smirked, his arms crossed over his chest. "Just trying to climb the hero ranks," he replied nonchalantly. "I can't be number three forever. But if you want to ignore the resources and intel I have to offer at the cost of bringing down another dangerous criminal..."
Kuroo sighed, rubbing his temples. "Fine," he conceded. "But no funny business. I don't need any more headaches." The Chief opened his eyes, barking. "And why the fuck is everyone standing around for! Assemble another search party!"
The room buzzed with the officers preparing to carry out their orders. As they filed out, Hawks lingered, his gaze lingering on the mugshot of the foreign girl. "And this is her?"
Kuroo looked up, his eyes steely. "The girl is our priority. We bring her in, and maybe, just maybe, I can go on vacation."
Hawks snorted, "Understood, Chief. I'll make sure she doesn't get away this time."
With a flick of his wings, Hawks used his feathers to open the door and strode into the night. He cast a two-finger salute behind him before he took to the air, the wind from his feathers sending a chill through the room.
The Chief looked up at him, skepticism etched on his face. "I'd better not regret this," he murmured.
As Hawks soared above the building, adrenaline pumped through his veins. He could feel the thrill of the hunt, the anticipation of the action to come. It was the most excited he's been about hero work in a while, and he relished the rush. The streets below were a maze of dark alleys and towering buildings, a perfect playground for a predator like him.
He knew he had to be careful. The Beast Summoner was no ordinary villain. Her power was unpredictable and terrifying. But Hawks had faced worse. He had a plan, and he wasn't about to let this opportunity slip through his fingers.
He dove into the night, his eyes scanning the rooftops for any sign of movement. The wind rushed past him, whispering secrets of the city's hidden dangers. His heart raced as his feathers picked up a faint tremor, something wild and untamed. It was her. In the direction of the forest.
Hawks' wings beat faster, closing the distance between them.
The air was thick with the metallic scent of blood and the acrid tang of burnt flesh, a canvas of chaos upon which he had painted his masterpiece. His eyes fell upon Ingenium as the man lay crumpled at his feet, a symbol of the very hypocrisy Stain had sworn to purge from the world of heroes. The hero killer's heart pounded in his chest, not with malice, but with a fierce zeal to deliver justice. He studied the fallen hero, contemplating his next move with the intensity of a chess grandmaster pondering over the board.
The night was eerily silent, a stark contrast to the battle that had just passed. The crimson moon cast elongated shadows across the ground, stretching them out like fingers reaching for their next victim. Stain's eyes narrowed as he made a conscious decision, one that was not driven by bloodlust, but by the intricate dance of fate and opportunity. He reached down and grasped Ingenium's chin, tilting the man's head up to meet his gaze.
"You," Stain whispered, his voice a low rumble that seemed to resonate with the very essence of the night, "are a stain upon this city's soul. But perhaps, you can serve a greater purpose."
Ingenium's eyes fluttered open, a flicker of fear dancing within them. He tried to speak, but his voice was a mere croak, his breaths shallow and pained.
"Why...why spare me?" he managed to ask, his voice trembling.
Stain's grip tightened ever so slightly, his eyes boring into the depths of Ingenium's soul. "Because, my dear imposter, you are the perfect example of what I seek to destroy."
The hero killer's gaze shifted, and his senses heightened as he felt the shift in the air. The foreign quirk user, the one who had the power to create monsters that had brought terror to the hero society was still out there, lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike again. This girl was a wild card in the grand scheme of things, a beast that could either aid his cause or threaten it.
He released Ingenium's chin, allowing the man's head to fall back to the cold, hard ground with a thud. "But that is a talk for another time."
Stain's scarf fluttered dramatically as he turned, his eyes scanning the horizon. He knew the hunt was on. The citizens of this city, the heroes, the villains, all of them would be drawn to the monster's trail like moths to a flame. And he would be there, waiting in the wings, ready to use the chaos to his advantage.
"Your survival is merely a tool," Stain continued, his voice echoing in the stillness, "a means to an end. When the dust settles and the beast is brought to heel, the true purge will begin."
The anticipation grew within him, a delicious cocktail of excitement and trepidation. He could feel the momentum building, the tension in the air like the tightening of a bowstring before the arrow was released. Stain licked his lips, the taste of his victim's blood still fresh on his tongue.
"The time is ripe for change," he murmured to himself, a twisted smile playing upon his lips. "And I will be the one to wield the blade that cuts through the lies."
With a flourish, he hoisted the frozen man up, carrying them both into the shadows. Stain's steps were swift and silent as he enacted the first stage of his plan, the thrill of the hunt pulsing through his veins.
The chase was on, and he was eager to see where it would lead, to see who would emerge as the true monster in the end.
Dr. Kyudai stood in the dimly lit laboratory, his eyes fixated on the intricate charts sprawled across the desk. The flickering fluorescent lights cast eerie shadows on the walls, and the faint hum of machinery filled the air. His heart raced as he studied the unprecedented data, his mind racing with the implications of his latest discovery.
All for One, the shadowy figure looming in the corner, leaned forward. "What do these readings signify, Doctor?" His voice was a low murmur, carrying an underlying current of power and threat.
Kyudai swallowed hard, his hand shaking slightly as he pointed at the charts. "It appears, All for One, that I was correct all those years ago. The evolution of quirks is not as linear as we once believed. The power of One for All... it might not be the pinnacle we thought it was."
All for One grew colder. "Careful with your words, doctor. One for All is the culmination of all quirks. It is the ultimate expression of power."
The doctor's curiosity was piqued, and he couldn't help but challenge the assertion. "But what if it's not? What if there's something more? Something we haven't even begun to understand?"
All for One's eyes narrowed, his patience wearing thin. "Your focus should remain on the Nomu experiments. The future of our society depends on them."
Ignoring the warning, Kyudai's gaze drifted to the rows of containment pods lining the walls, each holding a twisted, monstrous form. "And what of these readings? They're... they're unlike anything I've ever seen before. They're infringing on my work, affecting the stability of the Nomus."
The villainous leader leaned closer, his breath hot against Kyudai's ear. "That is your work. Focus on it. Do not let your curiosity cloud your judgment. We can deal with worm-hole energies later."
But Kyudai couldn't help himself. The whispers of possibility danced in his mind like a siren's call. "What if these readings are the key to unlocking a new level of power? Something that could surpass even One for All?"
All for One's power flashed with anger, and the room grew colder. "You dare to question my vision?" His hand shot out, grabbing Kyudai by the collar and lifting him off the ground. "Your place is to serve, to create, not to question!"
Kyudai's eyes never left the charts. "I am serving," he said through gritted teeth. "But I also see a bigger picture. A chance for power beyond our wildest dreams."
The grip tightened, and the doctor felt his airway constrict. But he didn't flinch. If I play my cards right, he thought, I could harness this new quirk, and our roles would reverse.
Suddenly, the lab's alarms blared to life, piercing the tension. The readings on the charts spiked, and the Nomus in their pods began to thrash violently. All for One released Kyudai, his eyes darting to the chaos around them.
The doctor took a deep, shaky breath and straightened his glasses. "We may need to consider the potential of this evolved quirk," he said calmly. "It could be the next evolutionary step for quirks. And if we don't understand it, someone else will."
All for One's attention returned to him, the anger replaced with something akin to intrigue. "Perhaps," he mused. "But remember your place. I will not tolerate betrayal."
As the alarms continued to wail, Kyudai nodded in agreement, his mind already racing with thoughts of how to harness this new power. He knew he was playing a dangerous game, but the allure of absolute power was too great to resist. And as they worked together to calm the riled-up Nomus, the suspense grew thick, the air heavy with the promise of secrets and ambition that could either make or break their alliance.
The bar felt suffocatingly small as Shigaraki was abruptly summoned by his master. The walls seemed to pulse with the intensity of his anger, a stark contrast to the calmness that radiated from the man in the chair before him. The game had leveled up, the whispers echoed in his mind, taunting him with the realization that his world was about to be disrupted once again.
He couldn't help but clench his fists, the fabric of his leather gloves straining under the pressure, as he thought about Stain's rejection. It was a humiliation that burned in his chest like a white-hot ember, never quite extinguished.
"Tomura," All for One's voice was a thunderclap in the silence, jolting him out of his thoughts. "The time has come for us to expand our influence. To do that, we need new allies."
Shigaraki's eyes narrowed, the shadow of doubt darkening his already furious gaze. "Why? What good are allies to me?" he spat out, the venom in his voice leaving no room for misunderstanding.
Kurogiri, ever the diplomat, stepped in, his voice as smooth as the fabric of his suit. "Master is right, Shigaraki-sama. With allies, your power will grow. Think of it as a king standing tall with his knights at his side."
Shigaraki scoffed, his chest heaving with contempt. "A king? I don't want to rule the world- I want to destroy it. I can do it alone." He could see it now, All Might decaying piece by piece. His bright smile turned into one of horror. Oh, he itched to see it.
All for One leaned back, a smug tone playing in his voice. "Ah, but a king is only as strong as those who follow him. And what if a queen could stir the hearts of those around her? Inspire pity and rage in equal measure?" His eyes gleamed with an eerie light, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air.
Shigaraki's mind raced, trying to piece together the puzzle his master had laid before him. Who was this woman? And why did they need her? "And how exactly do we get this... 'queen' on our side?" he asked, his voice gruff.
All for One's joy grew, a chilling sight that sent a shiver down Shigaraki's spine. "Why, through our usual methods, of course. You know how to persuade people, don't you, my dear protege?" The room seemed to grow colder with the implication behind his words.
Shigaraki's grip on his glove tightened the urge to destroy something overwhelming. But he knew better than to show his true feelings to the man who held his future in his twisted hands. "Fine," he bit out. "And if she doesn't come willingly..."
"Then we shall make her," All for One said, his tone final.
Shigaraki's heart raced as he thought of the woman they were to bring in. Who was she? What power did she possess that could match his own? Did he now abandon his plans to take the explosive boy from the sports festival? The challenge made his mind race, the promise of more chaos a sweet symphony playing in his ears.
But deep down, the rejection by Stain still stung. He didn't need pity or allies. He was the embodiment of destruction, a force to be reckoned with. Yet, the whispers of doubt grew louder. Was he truly ready to face whatever the next level of this twisted game had in store?
The suspense was palpable as Shigaraki took a step back, his eyes never leaving his master's. "I'll do it," he said, his voice as cold as ice. "But know this, if she betrays me..."
All for One chuckled, the sound like nails on a chalkboard to Shigaraki's ears. "Don't worry, my boy. In the end, everything I do, I do for you."
Shigaraki felt the heat of his anger flare up, his quirk threatening to burst forth. But he held it back, swallowed it down. He had a mission now, and he would not fail. Not again.
The bright lights of the television studio gleamed down on Principal Nedzu as he took a deep breath, his eyes wide with anticipation. He was used to the spotlight, but the topic of today's interview was one that had captured his interest like a child discovering a new toy. The interviewer, a classically dressed woman with a serene expression, leaned into the camera. "Principal Nedzu, what is your take on the latest controversy in the hero community? This new villain, known only as 'The Montress Summoner', has been transferring her quirk onto animals. Is this a form of animal abuse?"
Nedzu's eyes sparkled with curiosity, and he leaned forward, his elbows on his knees. "Oh boy, oh boy," he murmured to himself, his paws coming together in a steeple as he thought. "Well, you know, it's not always so black and white, like a pancake and a banana. Sometimes, things are more... more like a fruit salad!" He chuckled at his own analogy, his cheeks dimpling.
The interviewer raised an eyebrow, clearly not expecting such a whimsical response. "Could you elaborate, Principal?"
"Oh, absolutely!" Nedzu beamed. "What if, just what if, the girl everyone's talking about isn't giving the quirks to the animals at all? What if the animals already had them, and she's just... unlocking them? Like finding the key to a treasure chest hidden deep in the jungle of their DNA!"
The interviewer nodded her expression a mix of skepticism and intrigue. "That's an interesting perspective. But the evidence seems to suggest that she is indeed the source of the quirks."
He leaned back in his chair, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "Well, in that case, everything we see on the internet must be true."
The audience watched, hanging on his every word. Some nodded in agreement, while others frowned, puzzling over the implications.
"But," he added, his voice dropping to a dramatic whisper, "what if the situation was more complex than we thought? That she's not the villain everyone thinks she is? What if she's just misunderstood? Like when you think a puppy's chewing on your shoe because it's bad, but really it's just teething?"
The tension in the room grew as the interviewer leaned in closer. "Misunderstood, you say? How so?"
Nedzu's eyes lit up with excitement. "Well, maybe she's just trying to help! Imagine animals with the power to save the day, to be heroes in their own right! These creatures may be similar to me."
The interviewer's eyebrows shot up. "So you're suggesting this could be a force for good?"
Nedzu nodded vigorously. "Yes, yes! It's like giving a squirrel the power to climb buildings or a bird the ability to speak. It could be amazing! But," he paused, his expression turning serious, "we have to be careful. We don't want to hurt the animals or be hurt by them. We need to understand her quirk, and her intentions before we judge. It's like tasting a mysterious ice cream flavor, hm?"
The audience gasped as the screen behind them flashed with images of the humanoid fire-cat. The suspense grew thicker than a bowl of gelatin in a noodle shop.
The interviewer nodded gravely. "Those are wise words, Principal. Thank you for sharing your unique perspective."
Nedzu smiled angelically, purposely fueling the flames. "Thank you for asking me!"
The camera lingered on his eager face for a moment before cutting to commercial, leaving the audience to ponder the mysteries of 'The Montress Summoner' and the boundless whimsy of Principal Nedzu.
Uma sighs heavily as she sits against the rough bark of a tree, her eyes darting nervously around the makeshift camp she's set up. Her team lay snuggled inside a sleeping bag, the gentle sounds of their breathing mingling with the stirrings of the early morning park. The sun is a timid intruder, its light tiptoeing through the leaves and casting a surreal glow over the sleeping forms of Marshadow and Magikarp.
Uma, eyes red-rimmed and puffy, briefly closes her eyes. But all that greets her is the image of a man, lying still and lifeless greets her. Her stomach twists and she opens her eyes. The chaos she's brought into this dimension is a noose tightening around her neck, a constant reminder of the guilt that weighs her down. The authorities are out there, hunting her, and she can't shake the fear that they're closer than she thinks. The only thing she's certain of is that she can't trust herself anymore.
She can't sleep, so she might as well recheck everything. With trembling hands, she rummages inside her bag. The meager contents of energy bars and a nearly empty water bottle are a stark reminder of her dwindling resources. She'll ration the remaining food to her team carefully; they can't stay in one place for too long. The thought of being caught sends a shiver down her spine. The four hours of sleep she managed to steal seemed like a luxury now.
Her thoughts drift to the oddities of this dimension. The humans here had features that reminded her so much of the Pokémon she knew—it was uncanny. She feels a bit queasy when remembering the cat that looked like a human—such a bizarre idea to get used to. Their eyes, the shapes of their ears, even the way they moved sometimes. It was as if this world had been painted with a Pokémon theme.
Uma struggles with understanding the reality of this world and the societal effects of humans mating with Pokémon. Is that why they had monstrous strength, powers that only Pokemon should wield?
She bit her lip. She didn't know how much longer she could last like this. A fugitive, hunted by forces she didn't fully understand, in a world that branded her as a monster. Her only companions were the Pokémon she had with her, and even they had to stay hidden for fear of being caught in the crossfire of this alien world's laws.
Her hand absentmindedly strokes her sketchpad, the hastily drawn glyph the only indication that the Pon Shard had brought her to this place. She had been studying it for hours. The shards had put her into another troublesome situation, only this time, it wasn't the fault of the Aether Foundation. This time, there wasn't a straightforward battle she needed to fight. Why was this dimension so important that she had to be sent here? What was she supposed to do?
Marshadow stirs, sensing her distress, and looks at her with his glowing red eyes. Uma can almost hear him asking why she's up and interrupting his rest. Uma forces a small smile. "Don't worry, bud. Just trying to figure out our next move."
Though she hadn't made much progress, she had two solutions to return home. One, finding a portal to get back to Alola, but the risk is too great. They could end up anywhere, or worse, trapped—the other, creating a power source that could transmit a signal across dimensions. While challenging, she wasn't Burnet; building a device to get home feels like trying to tame a legendary Pokémon with a paperclip.
So, she'd have to work within her means. She glanced down at the Rotom Pokemon, and never had she been so thankful for her impulsive splurging. Once connected, she'd rely on the expert to solve the problem and bring them home.
Magikarp flops over, his pink body reflecting the rising sun. Magikarp let out a huge snore, and Uma chuckled softly, the sound a stark contrast to her anxious thoughts. "Alright, time to go." Uma gently shook her water-type awake, and the three began to clean up. In a matter of moments, with the campsite cleared, they set off once again.
Holding Magikarp's still dozing body in one hand, and her Rotem in the other, Uma led her team through the sparse trees of the park. Her eyes remained glued to the device's screen, the digital map guiding her steps toward the edge of the next town. The path they tread was wearing on her, both physically and mentally, but she couldn't afford to let doubt seep in.
She can't let her guilt consume her. Not when there's still a chance to fix what she's done.
The town's silhouette grew more distinct as the sun began to rise. The small town was filled with squat buildings and a hospital standing tall in the distance. But her gaze was drawn to the electrical power grid that loomed just beyond it. That was where the real prize lay, the oasis in the desert.
Uma's steps became lighter as the trees grew thinner. She could imagine Burnet's screeching voice once she'd used the grid to evoke the Rotom Pokemon's evolution. With enough juice, the Pokemon could experience a surge that-
Her Rotem suddenly emits a thrilling ring, jolting Uma from her thoughts. She looks down, her heart racing. Could it be? A notification from Burnet? But as she reads the display, her excitement turns to dread. The ring isn't for an incoming call—it's an alert for an incoming portal.
And not just a single portal; a shit-storm swarm of them. Spreading across miles. The Rotem went haywire, continuously ringing.
"What the hell," she murmurs, her voice laced with a hint of resignation. "What now?"
Before she can even take a step forward, a splatter of something wet and noxious hits her arm. She glances down, her eyes widening in horror as she sees the unmistakable signs of a Poison-type attack. She's been hit.
"Marshadow, Magikarp, we need to move," she says urgently, her voice tight with pain. "Something is attacking us."
Magikarp, the overly sensitive member of their team, chooses that moment to spring to life. With a jolt, the usually lazy fish jumped up and exclaimed, "Magikarp!". He quickly attached himself to Uma's head, causing her to wobble unsteadily.
Uma, caught off-guard, yelped and flailed her arms around before finally getting a grip on Magikarp's tail. With a firm tug, she sent the fish flying through the air and into the nearby trees.
"Magikarp, why do you always do that?" she scolded, her voice filled with exasperation. "It's not the time for your antics!"
"Marshadow," hissed her bonded, and Uma felt the tell-tale prickle of his hackles being raised. She turned, and she saw Marshadow pointing towards the figure in the gloom. A Spinarak perched ominously in the canopy above them, a poison-type spider that was common to the jungles of Melemele. Its eyes were narrowed, and it looked ready to defend its newly claimed home.
As the venom spreads, Uma clenches her fist.
With a grimace, she recalls the people she's encountered so far—their Pokemon-like abilities and the way they seem to live like heroes out of a comic book. If she's going to get back home, she'll need to understand this world better. And to do that, she'll have to play by their rules.
If she was going to survive, she would need to get stronger.
"Marshadow, we're going to do something a little different." Uma locked eyes with her partner. She felt the bond hum with impatience, and she decided to take a leap of faith. "Let me lead."
For a moment, silence rang in the air. Then, the childish Pokemon snorted. Marshadow dared to laugh in her face before brushing her off. He walked forward, set on engaging in battle with the Spinarak.
The little...! Uma held back a frustrated growl.
So, her partner's attitude might have been her fault. She was never partially interested in training. Sure, Marshadow knew how to battle. But he did it alone. They both preferred it that way. Marshadow was too stubborn to allow anyone to command him or work beside him. And Uma was too busy with her head in a book, researching ways to prevent their region from dying. It was easier to cave to his stubbornness than put up a fight against it.
But things were different now. Although Marshadow excelled in fighting head-on, he became so battle-focused that he couldn't see much else. With Uma on the outside, she could see the bigger picture and make the smarter calls. Marshadow was too battle-thirsty and never slowed down to think. Not to mention, his movements were oh-so predictable. He'd hide in the shadows, place a well-focused punch, then try to overpower his opponent.
Uma had five days alone to herself. Five days to remember the way that Big-Yellow plummed her partner like a rag-doll. And she had sat on the sidelines, simply watching. Her negligence with her partner had gone on for far too long.
And it was time to correct it.
That is if she got Marshadow to listen.
"Marshadow, stop." Uma let her voice carry authority, with no room for argument. Marshadow stood frozen in his tracks. "I wasn't asking. I'm going to give you moves to carry out. Like a proper trainer. You will listen, and you will trust me to help you fight. I won't let you fight alone. Not anymore."
In the foliage of the thinning trees, Marshadow's form flickered in the shadows. Uma felt his indecision through their bond before he let out a childish giggle and turned to look back at her. His face was blank as he nodded. Uma took the victory for what it was and used her Rotem to pull up a list of Marshadow's skills.
When she was ready, she stepped forward.
Her inexperience was evident in her stuttered commands and the way she awkwardly gestured, trying to emulate the confidence of seasoned trainers she had seen at the trainers' school.
"Marshadow, let's show them what we've got!" she exclaimed, her voice wavering. "Use... use... uh, Shadow Claw!"
Marshadow looked at her with a mix of confusion and annoyance. However, he begrudgingly complied and sluggishly tried to extend a shadowy claw. The attack missed Spinarak by a mile, leaving Uma crestfallen.
He doesn't know how to use shadow claw, huh? Let's try to stick with what he knows.
Spinarak, sensing the opportunity, spun into action, weaving an intricate web of strings. It launched a barrage of sharp, glowing threads with its Signal Beam move, aiming for the distracted Marshadow. Uma's eyes widened in horror as she saw the web of light closing in on her companion.
"Dodge, dodge!" she shouted, panic seeping into her voice.
Marshadow barely managed to evade the incoming assault, its form flickering as it danced around the beams. The tension between Uma and her partner grew palpable, the air thick with the unspoken words of frustration and doubt.
Uma took a deep breath and tried to regain her composure. She knew she had to improve if she wanted to protect herself and the Pokémon that had chosen to stand by her side.
"Alright, let's try this again," she murmured, her voice steadying. "Marshadow, use... I mean, perform a Copy Cat then use Shadow Punch!"
Marshadow rolled his eyes but obeyed, forming an aura of dark energy in its hands. The effort was half-hearted at best, the punch lacking the force she had hoped for. Spinarak easily avoided it with a graceful leap.
The spider-like Pokémon took the opening to spin closer, wrapping more threads around the battlefield, trapping Uma's feet. She stumbled, her device slipping from her grasp.
Things can't go on like this, can they?
"Marshadow, quick!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with urgency. "Dodge and use Shadow Sneak!"
Marshadow obeyed, his form blurring as it evaded the web. It approached Spinarak with a sudden burst of speed, aiming for a sneak attack. This time, Spinarak didn't see it coming. The shadowy punch connected, sending the spider Pokémon flying back.
A small smile of satisfaction crept onto Uma's face. "That's more like it," she said, her confidence slowly returning.
Marshadow frowned and didn't make a move to do anything else. However, Uma's expression changed when she noticed something unusual happening to Spinarak. Its body began to emit a soft, radiant glow, which was distinctly different from the energy discharged by the fading portals. Her eyes went wide with realization. "Marshadow, watch out!" she yelled, "It's evolving!"
With surprising speed, the Spinarak's form grew larger and more menacing. Its legs stretched out and transformed into sharp, pointed appendages. The once small and innocuous spider was now a terrifying Ariados, poised for battle.
Uma, still entangled in the web, knew she had to act fast. "Marshadow, quick! Help me out of here!" she called out.
Marshadow sprang into action. He tried to use his ghostly aura to cut through the sticky threads that held her captive but ended up becoming entrapped as well. Uma, shouted at her Rotem phone, which hovered nearby, "Rotom, what are Ariados' strengths?"
The phone zipped in front of her, displaying the information she requested. "It's strong against fairy, fighting, grass, and bug types," it announced.
"Crap," Uma murmured, her mind racing. This evolution was not what she had anticipated. She needed to rethink her strategy on the fly. "Magikarp," she instructed, "Be useful and help us out! I know you're pretending to sleep! We got to get out of here and regroup!"
Magikarp, who had been snoring lazily in the background, jolted. He saw the Ariados preparing to charge and screamed. Instead of trying to shield his trainer from harm, Magikarp burst into tears and hurriedly glomped Uma's head into his mouth.
Of all the stupid-why did I ever capture this idiot, water-brained Magikarp...!
The impact of Ariados' charge sent them all tumbling through the air.
Dieites, Uma hated falling. Especially when her head was inside a fish's mouth.
The ground rushed up to meet them, and Uma couldn't brace herself for the painful impact. Their bodies skipped across the pavement like rocks along a pond. She felt the pressure of Magikarp's body as he desperately held onto her, his tears drenching her entirely. Marshadow clutched at her legs, the bond simmering with barely suppressed rage.
This was not how she had envisioned their battle going.
With a final tumble, their bodies came to a halt in a refreshingly cool patch of grass. Uma didn't miss a beat. She wrenched her head out of the grip of fish lips and tossed Magikarp as far as she could manage.
"Annoying goldfish," she hissed, watching the water-type land with a flop.
Her eyes searched the ground around her, spotting her Rotem stuck against the struggling Marshadow. "Hold on," she told him, "I've got y'all."
Her hands moved swiftly, working at the saltwater-drenchesparse, that entangled her feet. The fibers were tough, but she gritted her teeth and yanked until they snapped. Standing up, she stumbled over to the stubborn Marshadow, who was glaring at her through narrowed eyes.
"I'm helping whether you like it or not, you big baby," she said firmly, ignoring his protests.
She tugged at the threads binding his legs, her muscles straining with the effort. With a final snap, Marshadow and Rotom was free. The electric Pokemon let her phone fall to the ground and flitted about. Marshadow stumbled to his feet, his eyes never leaving hers.
The ghost-type huffed before looking away, to hand her the discarded cell phone. Uma smiled, knowing it was his way of thanking her.
Uma took a deep breath, her chest heaving from the exertion. She looked around, surveying the cozy town with a critical eye. The sun blazed high in the sky, a brilliant orb of light that cast stark, elongated shadows. They stood in front of a large building, and Uma caught the sign which marked it as the Jaku General Hospital. Around them began the stirrings of citizens beginning to start their day.
This was bad. They were in a vulnerable position, standing out in the open where anyone could spot them. It was only a matter of time before her identity was compromised and the heroes and local law enforcement were alerted to her presence. Panic began to bubble within her. Uma made to dash into the forest, but a sudden, searing pain in her leg dashed that hope. A twinge of pain filled her heart with stones: her leg might be broken. Fuck. If her leg was broken she couldn't travel the winding path of the forest to reach the power -grid.
With a trembling hand, she brushed a few stray, grime-covered curls from her forehead (Man, she smelt rank. What she wouldn't give for a hot shower). She didn't have the luxury of time to stall. She eyed the seemingly deserted hospital and made a split-second decision. She recalled Magikarp to his ball and watched as Rotom retreated into the welcoming embrace of her phone. Then, she gathered her remaining strength and scooped up the protesting Marshadow, cradling him in her arms.
Uma made her way towards the entrance. The whispers of the early morning were soon replaced by the muffled echoes of her footsteps against the sterile floors of the medical facility. She kept her head low, thankful that she for once had followed Burnet's advice and worn her lab coat over her normal clothing. She fit the role of a doctor perfectly.
A bored-looking receptionist greeted Uma, and she quickly ducked into a hallway instead. The interior was sparse, with only the occasional hum of machinery to break the silence. The stark contrast between the bustling streets and the desolate corridors of the hospital was jarring, yet oddly comforting. It was as if the building itself was holding its breath, waiting for the chaos of the day to begin anew.
Seeing a few nurses heading her way, Uma dashed for the closest door. The room she entered was a small, cluttered office with a desk, a chair, and a first-aid kit. Carefully, she set Marshadow down on the chair, his red eyes flickering with agitation.
"Let me know if you see anyone coming," Uma murmured. She didn't feel the bond hum but knew Marshadow heard.
With shaky movements, Uma began to assess her injuries. Her arm looked like a second-degree burn, nothing a salve couldn't heal. The fabric of her pants was torn and stained with blood, the skin beneath bruised and swollen. Her heart sank as she gently prodded the area, confirming her suspicion. Her leg was indeed broken.
The pain was intense, but she had to endure it. Uma took a deep breath and focused her thoughts, calling upon the last vestiges of her energy to perform a quick first-aid treatment. She applied a makeshift splint, securing it with bandages torn from the police shirt. Once her splint was made, Uma stood indecisively, wavering.
She wasn't one to steal, but at the moment she was lacking in pretty much everything. Opening the drawers revealed a surprising assortment of snacks. She also had a bottle in her bag that needed to be filled with water. And with a mini fridge right there...
In less than five minutes Uma had ransacked the room. Her conscience griped at her, but she dutifully pushed it to the back of her mind. The supplies weren't just for her, she had to take care of her Pokemon too, she reasoned. When her pack was heavy on her back Uma was satisfied.
The door creaked as it was pushed open, and she whirled at the sound. Standing before them was a pale, middle-aged bald man with a bushy mustache, whose mouth had opened in a surprised 'oh' at seeing the inhabitants in the room.
Uma didn't acknowledge her lookout, but she sent a chilling reprimand through the bond. In response, a forceful dose of contempt was pushed back at her, almost causing her to stumble.
What the hell, is Marshadow mad at me? For what?
"Whoops, forgive me looks like I'm in the wrong room!" The short man bowed rapidly and turned on his heels. "I'm old, you see, and tend to forget things! Carry along." The door shut again and the office was silent once more.
Uma was conflicted. She was happy enough that the man didn't recognize her, but that didn't mean she was able to sprint out of the hospital. The baldy just gave them an out. If she locked the door, they could spend the night here, and she could talk to Marshadow, and maybe-
The door creaked open once more, causing Uma and Marshadow to exchange a glance. In stepped the bald man, a sheepish smile on his face as he closed the door gently behind him.
"My apologies, it appears I am in the right room. It seems even a seasoned doctor like myself can't resist a bit of mischief now and then." He paused, taking a deep breath before his eyes widened at the sight of Uma.
Rushing to her side, he delicately lifted her injured arm, his gentleness surprising her. "My dear, you're not looking quite yourself," he commented, examining it closely. "You really should be resting... Have you recently been admitted for a car accident? You might be a bit dazed and have wandered into the wrong room. Not to worry, we'll make sure you get a proper bed and treatment." He offered a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, we'll take good care of you."
Uma, feeling a bit overwhelmed by his kindness, replied curtly, "No, thank you. I'm okay. I was just leaving." Despite her words, the pain caused her to stumble slightly. The doctor swiftly stepped in, offering his arms to support her.
"Dear, you're not well enough to be walking around. You're likely concussed and quite dehydrated." He began to move towards the door, intending to fetch a nurse, but Uma's urgent protest made him stop.
"No! Don't call anyone. I don't want treatment." Uma flinched. She couldn't involve others. They couldn't be trusted.
"Alright, I'll just have to aid you myself. Just give me a moment." He stepped out and quickly returned with a small cart of medical supplies and a bag of fluids.
The following minutes unfolded smoothly. As the doctor tended to her injuries, they shared light conversation. He applied a soothing ointment to her arm and wrapped it gently in soft gauze. He even managed to coax a cup of tea into her hand despite her protests.
As she settled into the chair, the cushions sighing under her weight, Uma studied the doctor's office with curiosity and suspicion. The walls were lined with numerous books and artifacts. The room was dimly lit, with a warm glow emanating from a single lamp that cast elongated shadows across the floorboards. The smell of antique paper and the faint scent of herbal remedies filled the air, a stark contrast to the sterility of the rest of the hospital. He took a seat opposite her, his movements deliberate and precise, his eyes never leaving hers as he took a sip of the steaming tea.
"You're quite fortunate to have stumbled upon my office," he said, his smile hinting at a secret amusement. "With those injuries, it could have been quite unpleasant wandering the halls."
"Thank you, Professor," Uma murmured, her voice a mix of gentility and wariness.
The doctor's eyebrows shot up in surprise, the gears in his mind visibly turning. "A fan of my academic days, are you?" His chuckle was deep and warm, like the tea that filled the delicate cup in his hand. "Not many people know I was once a professor before I started my medical practice."
Uma felt her ears heat as she realized her mistake. "I apologize, it's just a habit from my hometown," she said with a sheepish smile. "In my town, we address all researchers with the same respect."
The doctor leaned back in his chair, his goggles glinting in the lamplight. "Ah, the accent," he said, his eyes lighting up with interest. "Where do you come from, my dear?"
Her heart skipped a beat, but she replied calmly, "A small town, far from here. It's nothing like the...exotic-ness of this city."
Doctor Tsubasa's gaze grew more intense, his curiosity piqued. "And what business brings you to Japan? Hero research?" His gaze lingered on her white lab coat.
Uma's eyes narrowed slightly, the question hitting a nerve. But there was something in his tone, a gentle coaxing that made her feel safe enough to share a sliver of her truth. "My journey has been...eventful," she began, her voice low and measured. "I'm a student researcher, and I came seeking answers. But this region hasn't been too kind to me. As of right now, I don't have much to my name besides the clothes on my back. "
The doctor's smile didn't waver, his eyes revealing a spark of understanding. "Ah, the quest for knowledge can be a treacherous one." He leaned forward, placing his cup of tea on the small table between them with a gentle clink. "Would you care to share your story with me, Uma?"
Her suspicion grew, but so did a strange sense of kinship. His eyes held a warmth she hadn't seen in a long time. He reminded her of the elderly neighbors who gave her sweets. "Why should I trust you? I don't need your pity," she replied, her gaze darting around the room.
"You can trust me," he assured her, his voice a soft melody that seemed to resonate within her. "I've seen my share of strange things in this country. I'm quite the discreet listener."
Uma took a deep breath, her fingers playing with the hem of her shirt. Uma told the bare bones of her frustrations. From encountering racism and prejudice in the first few minutes upon her arrival to being accused of being a villain due to her status as a foreigner. She skipped over parts about her arrest and subsequent break-out. Once done, she felt her shoulders lighten, finally unburdened.
The doctor nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "Sometimes fate has a peculiar sense of humor." The air grew thick with unspoken words, but the doctor's demeanor remained open and inviting. "What brings you to my hospital, if you don't mind me asking?"
Uma's grip tightened on the armrests. "I needed a place to rest and recover. Since it was close, I figured why not? " She hesitated before bowing her head. "I apologize for breaking into your office."
Doctor Tsubasa's smile was understanding. "You've come to the right place. I'd be happy to offer you a room and board, no questions asked."
Her eyes snapped up and searched his, looking for any hint of deceit or hidden motive, but all she found was sincerity. "...You're too kind," she said. "But why go so far for a stranger?"
"I'm a sucker for a tragic heroine, and you my dear sound as if you're in desperate need of a gesture of goodwill," he said, his hand resting comfortably on his desk. "You seem a smart girl, and I have been looking for an excuse to pick up research once again. And, see, I've stumbled upon an assistant! So convenient for me."
The doctor's words resonated with her, and despite her initial reservations, Uma felt a sudden urge to trust him. He had offered her refuge in a place where she had none, and for that, she could be grateful.
With a cautious nod, she accepted his offer. "Thank you, Professor Tsubasa."
He waved away her thanks with a graceful gesture. "Consider it a temporary home, Uma. Being chairman comes with perks, like having a small apartment in the basement. You're safe here."
The tension in the room slowly dissipated as they shared a moment of silent understanding, two souls hiding their secrets, yet willing to trust each other for the time being. As Uma allowed herself to relax in the chair, she felt the first stirrings of hope that she might find what she was looking for in this bizarre world.
Professor Tsubasa's, noticing her relaxed state, posture shifted. He pushed back his chair and stood with a grace that seemed almost predatory before he offered his hand to her. "You look as though you could use some rest," he said, his voice a low murmur. "Allow me to escort you to your room."
Uma studied his hand for a moment before placing her own in his firm grip. His skin was warm, a stark contrast to the chill that had settled into her bones. At Uma's insistence, they took the stairs down to the basement, bypassing the elevator entirely.
The basement apartment was a stark contrast to the ample office above. It was small and simple, with a single bed and a desk that held a collection of dusty books. The room was bathed in the soft light, and Uma noticed an open door leading to a bathroom.
Upon entering, she couldn't help but note the sparse furnishings and the almost plain feel of the space. It was as if he had deliberately chosen to live with only what was necessary, leaving no room for superfluous comforts. Her eyes darted around the room, searching for any clue as to who this man truly was, and what secrets he harbored behind his pleasant facade.
The professor kept the door open as he made his way out. He turned to face her, his gaze unwavering. "Help yourself to anything in the drawers. You're safe here," he repeated, the words a gentle promise that did little to alleviate the suspicion that lurked within her.
"Professor Tsubasa-san." Uma called out, and the doctor paused. "What's your research in?"
"My research," he began, his voice measured and thoughtful, "focuses on the intricacies of quirks. Specifically, I delve into the phenomenon known as quirk singularity."
He leaned against the door, his fingers absently tracing the outline. "Quirks, as you know, are not static entities. They evolve, change, and sometimes when the conditions are ripe, they can coalesce into something unpredictable and overwhelming." His gaze grew distant. "My theory is that, much like living organisms, quirks will continue to evolve until they reach a stage where their power becomes uncontrollable. A stage where they could threaten not just individuals, but entire societies."
The doctor's eyes searched Uma's as if seeking to gauge her understanding or perhaps her concern. "My life's work is to study these stages of evolution, to understand the properties of quirks and trace their origins, so that we might anticipate and prevent such a catastrophic event." His voice was filled with passion and urgency.
Uma felt a sudden kinship with the professor. It sounded so similar to her Shard research that it was uncanny. She nodded slowly, her gaze never leaving his. "It's fascinating," she said, her voice filled with genuine interest. "I believe in the pursuit of knowledge and the betterment of the world. If your research can help understand and control these phenomena, then it's nothing short of remarkable."
Her smile was bright and unreserved. " What you're doing is noble work and one that I fully support."
The professor's smile grew in response, a warm expression that made the lines around his eyes deepen. "Thank you, Uma-san. It's not often one finds a kindred spirit in this shallow world. I'll leave you to your rest now." He pushed off the door and then left the room.
Uma couldn't hold back the sigh of relief that escaped her lips. She gently placed her bag on the floor, its contents jostling slightly with the impact. Then, she stripped, (mindful of her leg) tossing items off without a care. With a swift movement, she made a beeline to the bath. The mirror fogged quickly with the warm, inviting scent of steam as it curled around the edges of the claw-foot tub.
Uma's eyes grew heavy with exhaustion. Despite this, she couldn't help but let a small, goofy smile play on her lips as she scrubbed every part of her body with the various soaps she found. For a moment, she let herself forget the weight of all her troubles as she enjoyed herself.
Hours later Uma left the bathroom in a robe, body clean and hair properly moisturized and braided in two cornrows. Her nose scrunched at the stench of her clothes and pushed them to the side. She'd deal with that later. For now, she had another problem to deal with. She picked the two balls open and waited patiently as her team materialized. When Marshadow glared at her and Magikarp made to cry, Uma clapped her hands together.
"Alright, gather around for a team meeting!" Uma announced with forced enthusiasm.
"Look, I know we're all on edge being stuck in this dimension, far from the comfort of Alola. But holding onto frustrations isn't the answer. As leader, I'm trying my best to find a way out of here. If you have any issues with my decisions, let's discuss them right here, right now." She cast a meaningful look at Marshadow, who dismissively turned away from her.
Uma's frustration grew, but she knew addressing the Pokémon's feelings was crucial. She sighed heavily and then looked at Magikarp, whose tiny mouth was quivering with unshed tears.
"Magikarp, what's the matter?" Uma asked, her voice softening.
The distressed Magikarp jumped into the air, but Uma was prepared. She caught him gently, cradling him in her arms as he whimpered incoherently. Although she couldn't comprehend his blubbering, the distress was clear.
"It's alright, shark bait," she soothed, stroking his wet scales. "We're all feeling a bit overwhelmed, but together we'll make it through this. I've filled the bathtub with some water for you. It's not the ocean, but it'll be a cozy little spot to relax."
With a gentle nod, she went and placed Magikarp into the prepared bathwater, his eyes lighting up with relief. The water bubbled around him as he splashed contentedly. She left him to his own devices and turned her attention to the more challenging issue at hand—Marshadow.
Turning to Marshadow, Uma's tone grew more serious. "And what about you?" she said, patting the spot on the bed next to her. "You're acting like I've betrayed us or something."
Marshadow glared at her, his silence speaking volumes. Uma felt a twinge of irritation, but she knew better than to let it show. Instead, she patiently waited for his response.
Marshadow's eyes narrowed, and he projected images of their recent fight into her mind. Uma recalled the clumsiness and awkwardness of their coordination. The memory stung, but it wasn't bad for their first time.
"You're upset...because I stepped up during our last battle?" Uma deduced, her voice filled with incredulity. "You can't seriously be mad about that!"
"Marshadow." he hissed. Uma roughly translated it to: "You got in the way, and I lost. I could have handled it by myself."
"I did what I had to," she insisted, her voice unyielding. "I won't let your pride dictate our partnership any longer. We're a team, and we need to work together. If you can't see that, I can't help you with that kind of attitude."
Marshadow's answer was a mocking, childlike laugh, which only served to increase the tension in the room.
"Fine," Uma snapped, refusing to be patronized. "If you want to keep being stubborn, that's your choice. But let me remind you that in your last battle, you were crushed. We're facing stronger opponents and we need to be stronger."
Without another word, she turned her back and climbed into bed. Marshadow's frustration was almost tangible as he hastily retreated into his Poké Ball. The tension was now a living entity, wrapping around them like a thick fog.
Uma knew the argument was far from over, but for now, she needed to rest. She didn't know if she could trust the doctor, didn't know if she could trust anyone. The only thing she knew for sure was that she had to keep moving, keep searching for a way to set things right.
And maybe, just maybe, find a way to forgive herself.