Good day to y'all, Primal Latios here and ready to rumble. I hope that you all have had fun and stayed safe lately. Me? I am doing good thanks, doing well and handling the world. I hope that you'll have fun reading this chapter. I know I had fun writing it. Without further Ado...
Chapter 12: Sosei 's got talent
At Sosei Lake, rather loud noises were heard as blows intercepted each other in powerful fashion. Indeed, Monferno was training hard with Mienshao besides the lake.
The ferret was fast like lightning and light on her feet as a feather, but gradually, painfully and with resolve, he managed to catch her multiple times.
Monferno's progress was a marvel to see. Since he started to train with her, Monferno could feel that he had become much stronger and had learned many moves and techniques. Now he would be even better at protecting those he cared for.
Eventually, they had to stop for Lunch, as high intensity combat was sure to give one fighter big appetites.
A the two sat down to break, the Mienshao turned to him.
"You are getting better and better, that is very nice to see. Your passion for learning and your eagerness is also amusing. I very much enjoy it.'' She said appreciatively with a smile on her face.
"Thanks. It means a lot! I can get even stronger though!" Said Monferno in between two bites of his sandwich, graciously provided by Mienshao.
Mienshao's smile softly fell, knowing that her next wo ilrds would damper the mood significantly. "However, and I know you won't like this, I must warn you about your girlfriend.'' She said seriously
"In what regard?" Monferno asked suspiciously.
Mienshao sighed and looked deep into his eyes for a second before she spoke. "You do realize that she is not a Lopunny but a Haunter. A very dangerous and violent one at that. Listen. She is likely suffering from Post-Mortem separation Disorder. That is a very rare condition where the spirit of a diseased Pokemon keep on some of her memories as a living Pokemon but also receives the consciousness of the ghost type she reincarnates into. In this case, your Girlfriend's spirit is obviously a Lopunny who is clinging to life. However as the Gastly she was reborn with also 'exists', it makes her unstable as its like having two consciousnesses sharing one body, with the ghost part of her pushing her toward violence as it is how Ghost types naturally feeds. Out of fear and suffering of others. Eventually, they acclimate to feed on berries like most Pokemon. However, in this state, she might even use you to feed and do things against your will. Bluntly speaking, she is pretty much a monster ready to be unleashed into the world. A being capable of painting even the one she claim to love red with their own blood. I honestly recommend you to be careful around her. It would be even better to stay away from her until she sorts that out, for your own good..."
Monferno respectfully listened to her, of course. However, his fist balled as he held himself back from kicking his teacher in the face...
After all. How dare she says such things about the one he loved!?
He might has been very bright and outgoing, as well as maybe a little naive, but he wasn't blind. He knew that Haunter was going through a lot and was fighting against herself vehemently. However, he wanted to believe in her, believe in the one he loved to be able to tame the beast within. He knew how much Haunter wanted to change.
Even if she couldn't succeed, he would be there to support her. He must.
Monferno stood up and turned away from Mienshao who simply examined him curiously.
"...You don't know her. I know she has some problems, but I also know she is fighting against it and I have to be there, to help her go through it." He growled resolutely
"You are a nice guy Monferno, That's why you deserve better. I am saying these things to protect you. Honestly, you could do much better than a wraith masquerading as a Lopunny..." Mienshao said while she also stood up.
"You have no right to tell me what to do or what not to do, nor who I could be ''doing'' !" Said Monferno, snarling, while slowly turning around to face against her.
The flame on his stall started to growing bigger and bigger.
"Sure I don't. However, as a teacher I wouldn't want to see a great student's corpse bathing in their own blood, lying on the ground."
That one set the Monkey right off. "Shut up!" cried Monferno as he tried to jumping on her, but she quickly dodged it with a flip.
"If you think you can solve the problems with fights, then you still need much to learn." She said a bit condescendingly, getting into position.
Monferno attacked her again, using flamethrower and drain punch. Mienshao quickly protected herself, then avoided his attacks easily.
The fight did not took one hour, and the monkey was on the ground beaten up and defeated.
"Do you see how I mean?! You have to control your emotions or you will end up a loser forever." Mienshao said as she stretching out her right hand towards him.
Monferno took a deep breath, before he accepted her hand and let himself be pulled up.
"I..I will think about it." He said.
"Good" She nodded with a smile.
000
Monferno was staring at the Ceiling at the confessional. ''Am I not strong enough or Am I not enough to help her with that problem?'' He asked sadly
000
Elsewhere in the forest, a snail was looking at the sky while lying on her back. She couldn't believe how lucky she was and how useful she was for the team. Heck who knows? Maybe she would be the one who win the game in the end. There was no reason for her to even doubt anymore.
"No one can stop me!" She said to herself with confidence.
She felt on top of the world, smiling broadly and very much untouchable. She felt so satisfied, in fact, that she failed to notice that her charm's light and warm was steadily decreasing.
000
Dunsparce was beaming in the confessional. ''Victini, I love you! With your victory charm, even someone like me can become God!'' She proclaimed with utmost confidence.
000
In yet another part of the Island, a tiny army waited for their chance.
Hiding inside big bushes, tried their best to remain unnoticed. A camera was on top of one of soldier's head, ready to take action on his leader's orders.
"Alright! , I really hope that your intel was good, you. I don't want to have stayed here for long and certainly not for no reason." The leader of the army said as he is staring back to one of his sternly seriously.
The tiny pokemon nodded honestly before he joined to the team.
And just like that soldier heard, Mesprit appeared out of nowhere front of the cave and went inside. The leader quickly signed to his army to follow her quietly and they did just that. They moved forward step by step hiding behind rocks, not ready to lose even an inch of the opportunity that was now in front of them.
When they saw Mesprit sit down on the ground watching the small crystal lake front of her, they could not help but not how fitting the i image of the gentle Goddess of emotion was in the middle of such a beautiful crystal cave.
Mesprit took out a note book and a pen from her bag, and started thinking about the future challenges and the merge.
She tried really hard to focus but her mind still wondered about Victini, and what happened with him.
She also had a urge in her gut, which had been bothering her since she woke up.
''Just, what's going on anyway?''
Regardless, she started writing about the merge, and what future missions will be while she moved her tails gently around her.
Being the very picture of innocence and deep in focus, the being of emotions never realized that she was the target of many pictures and flashes. Such a state also greatly allowed for the team of six to quickly hide before she could realize what was happening.
It worked.
Around an hour later, when she felt everything was done and accounted for, she let out the cutest and satisfied ''Yosh'' and teleported away.
The tiny army moved out from their hidden spot and proudly did a high five with everyone in the phalanx.
"Well done folks! Mission complete." Said the leader proudly. "Now, let's go back and give these pictures to Tapu Koko before the challenge start."
And with that, they quickly ran out of the cave, inside the forest to the main camp direction where tapu Koko was.
000
Leonidas was looking proud at the camera in the confessional. ''Now this is what I call a successful covert ops.''
000
Back to the hall, Mesprit waited patiently for her two special guests who would be serving as judges for the challenge of the day.
She didn't have ot wait too long however...
"Mesprit hey!" Greeted someone behind her.
She turned around as Melody appeared with another Meloetta beside her. Oh, how happy she was to see her again.
"Melody, it is so good to see you. I hope my request wasn't big." Mesprit said as hugged Melody fiercely.
"Don't worry about a thing. I am happy to help. " Melody said with a smile then turned to the other Meloetta.
"My twin sister also interested. Aren't you Lyra?" She asked to the other Meloetta
"Kinda.. It is good to take a break from work after all." Lyra said back as she and Meloetta shook hands.
"In fact, it is more interesting to see one of the famed member of the trio of the spirit in person. It is a honor I guess."
Mesprit nodded appreciating her polite behavior. However, she couldn't help but wonder why she wanted to hide her emotions?
She clearly could see that Lyra was worried and sad about something. But, what it could be?
She didn't have the time to ponder too much as very quickly, the surroundings were overwhelmed by an electric/fairy lovable man-child that barely could control his electricity when excited. Indeed, Tapu Koko had arrived.
"Hey Mesprit, I am sorry I was late. I'm.." He said excitedly before stopping completely, staring at the Meloetta twins...well one of them in particular, that is.
Mesprit, intrigued as of why Koko had suddenly stopped talking in the middle of his sentence, turned around, and to her amusement, realized that Tapu Koko was staring at Lyra in complete shock, and his emotions didn't lie. He was staring at Lyra as if he wanted to burn the vision of the attractive muses in his memory.
Merciful, Mesprit sighed with a smile then bonked his head lightly to make him snap out of it.
This act helped Koko regain his focus. The lightning diety shook his head then flew towards the twins to welcome them.
"Good to see you Melody, and.."
"Lyra." Lyra said with a nod. "You must be Tapu Koko guardian of Mele mele island in Alola correct?"
"Yes I am. Welcome to this island." Koko nodding as he shook his claw with her hand.
"Alright. I think it is time to call players isn't it?" Mesprit said to Koko, who nodded then left the building to call everyone in the hall.
000
A hour later, both team were there, waiting what the two bosses are going to say. Both teams were unusually quiet, maybe the stream of the challenges were taking their toll on the challengers and mellowing the barbs they would normally sent ot each others.
All the better for the hosts then. Koko took the lead in explanations.
"Today's challenge is a Talent show." Said Tapu Koko. "Today all of you can show what you are capable off.
The one who gets the more points will win."
Hearing this, some Pokemon smiled with interest while others sighed with boredom.
Behind Tapu Koko, Mesprit came by, followed by the twins.
"I am glad to announce that the judges of the show are none others but the twins Melody and Lyra!'' She announced happily, with some fireworks appeared behind them..
''If there is anyone who knows everything about arts and skills are them." Explained happily Mesprit as she pointed to the twins.
Melody waved at them warmly while Lyra looked over them one by one like a teacher on exam time. She looked stern and unimpressed. What a contrast with her bubbly sister shw
"Let's start the show then!" Said Tapu Koko while Mesprit teleported everyone front of a stage.
Melody sat down on the chair elegantly while her sister not as much. In fact, Lyra even put her feet on the table folding her hands front of her chest.
"Lyra, put your legs down. You are humiliating both of us front of everyone." Whispered Melody in a desperate attempt to get Lyra to behave, but said Lyra just shrugged without even looking at her.
Melody shook her head in disappointment and annoyance.
000
Melody was staring at the confessional with a sad look on her face.
Why did her sister behaved like this? She was asking this question over and over again as she always acted like this whenever they were together.
Ever since that incident it's like she had been ...
000
Melody looked back at the stage, interiorly shaking herself. Now wasn't the time to feel pity for herself. She had to be a judge for Mes's show!
Tapu Koko and Mesprit finally sat down on their own chairs as well and waited curiously.
''Are you okay?'' Mesprit asked Melody, as she remarked her softened sad expression,
''Yes of course Mesprit. I am a-ok fine!'' replied the melodic Pokemon. Mesprit however was not easily fooled. She could see plain as day that she wasn't doing too hot but decided not to push it for now.
Meanwhile, Tapu Koko in the other hand couldn't help but glancing over at Lyra time to time. She looked so nonchalant and distant... yet she was so attractive? Why? Why did he find her that hot?
Why did he felt the same mix of feelings he had when looking at Latias?
000
Tapu Koko was looking at the camera in the confessional with a big blush on his face.
''Emotions are complex things aren't they?'' He asked the audience as the camera turned static.
000
Behind the stage the players started prepare for the show.
Each members got their own chosen tools and they were told that, they have at least 2 hours to be ready with their stuff.
Sneasel already practiced with stones before, so doing the same with Ice shouldn't be hard. Sculpting, that is.
It might have been a rather individualistic challenge, but Sneasel wouldn't let his guard go down, nor his, nor his team.
Wartortle always liked break dancing with the member of his gang back in the day. He would be easily be able to show his moves
With a huge radio under his left arm and cool black sunglasses on his eyes he felt he would be unstoppable
Alola Tales simply sitting and observing everyone. As a model, she did shows like this plenty of times.
As such, she did not felt she needed to practice on anything. Her poses and beauty and her power should be enough.
Croagunk practiced beat boxing while Bidoof tried digging up some jokes from his repertoire and wrote them down.
Metang in the other hand, warmed up his body for his dance.
Somewhere else in the room, An eager monkey kicked every single woods and rocks what he found. He sure wanted to show off the new skills he learned from Mienshao.
"I'm strong as all heck boiii!" He said confidently upon breaking yet another rock.
Haunter watched him happily, losing herself in contemplation. However, she couldn't help but also feel angry at the same time.
Thought seeing him getting stronger and confident was good to see, she couldn't help but be bothered by the fact that he was spending more time with that ferret teacher of his. She was afraid that she either stole him from her, as she unfortunately wasn't bad to look at, but also that she'd influence him somehow into breaking up with her. Just the thought made her skin crawl.
If this happens, she knew she will lose control on herself for sure...
Yamask and Hattrem decided to practice together. Yamask played on a harp what she did when she was alive long time ago.
As she closed her eyes, she saw herself in the palace where she played music with others for their master.
It was the only time in her life when she was really happy.
She couldn't help but wonder...would she will find happiness again?
Hattrem warmed up her vocal cords and sang some songs to reawaken her signing voice before she felt ready to sing what she chosen.
A old traditional Galar song what her mother taught her. Among all songs, this was her favorite so why not showing it to the world?
Roserade practiced her traditional dancing that she liked to do back at home in Sinnoh. It was an of style of dancing almost forgotten by the world that she had the honor to have been taught. It would be perfect as a talent.
Dunsparce didn't do any practice with her magic tricks. She felt she knows enough already so it will be okay. And her victory charm also is with her so why she should worry?
Soon enough, the time was upon them to perform
When the show started, Tapu Koko announced. "Welcome to Sosei Island's very first Talent show! Today, for your viewing pleasure, those contestants will be performing their best tricks. Alright campers, I hope you are ready because it is time to show us what you all can do.''
The first ''victim'' would be, Sneasel." Koko said as he read the list on his notepad.
Sneasel entered the stage from behind the big black curtain with a big chunk of Ice in his hands, which he put down in front of him when he reached the center of the stage.
"Hello Judges and crowd. My talent is Ice sculpting. And I do it fast. Hope you like it." he said before he started to work.
He sharpened his claws a lot to able make the best thing possible and indeed, as he touched the ice, it felt like he was melding butter.
With his speed, he created an amazing landscape about Mount. Coronet and some cities around it within 10 minutes.
When he was done with polishing,he stopped and waited for the juries's verdict, whose in fact were really amazed by the sculpture.
"Wow this looks amazing!" Mesprit said in awe.
"I didn't knew was this talented at crafting. Well done man!" Cheered Tapu Koko as well.
"Wonderful! I clearly am able to see the exact detailed iconic landscape of Sinnoh and the tiny cities around it.
It really shows you like your own country, and take pride of it. Which is nice to see. It's so realistic that it feels like i am viewing a 3D model. Very Well done Sneasel!" Melody said with a few claps which made Sneasel blush a little.
It felt good to be appreciated.
"It is good alright but it could be better. I really wanted to see what you could represent with your art and create something new and unique with it rather than seeing the exact same copy of a painting which is hanging on the wall in one of Sinnoh's painting gallery." Said Lyra, not nearly as impressed as the other two
She still was in the same pose like before, but now she lifted up a leg and crossed it, showing how bored she was.
Hearing this, the other three juries stared at her in surprise, than back at Sneasel, who just stared coldly at Lyra.
How dare she say such a thing?! He made this art because as Melody said, he likes his home and that mountain is where he lives. Why he would copy someone else's art?
Moreover, he couldn't even remember when was the last time he even visited a picture gallery either.
"Well, he still did a great job and I clearly see from his eyes that, he didn't wanted to copy anyone. So..
It might be just an accident or a coincidence" Said Melody as she tried to defend Sneasel who really appreciated that.
"There are no accidents sister." Said Lyra looking at her. "But you are right about he still did amazing work.
I simply wanted to see more, something unique which reflect his soul that is all. So, even if it is great, it is still not enough. So it is a 7/10. And I was nice."
"For me, it is 10/10!" Said Koko happily.
"Ditto! it is not easy to create something as good as this from a mere chunk of Ice. Plus, he put his heart into it, which is important" Said Mesprit.
"9/10." Said Melody at least. "Even if it is an incredible work, Lyra has right about expecting more and unique rather something which was already made in painting. But, I am still grateful to see how much effort you can do to reach your goals. So the only thing what I can tell you is, never give up fighting for something which is important for you."
Sneasel nodded with a smile. He couldn't help but feel like those words were needed. He needed to hear these words after suffering so many defeats.
He also liked how satisfied the juries were... Well..Expect Lyra, who still looked serious and unamused.
He would have to tell his team to be careful with her, which he did as he
"Alright. next one is Haunter. Come to stage." Koko said.
As quickly as he spoke up, as quickly Hunter appeared front of them from a cloudy dark purple mist.
"I read a report that said 88% of adults trust their doctors - well, 100% of dead people don't!"
"Oh no. I don't like where this is going..." Sighed Lyra annoyingly making everyone turn to her curiously.
Hunter just smiled while turned at her. "You see, insanity runs in my family. It practically gallops." She laughed with a shrug.
"It's all fun and games until someone loses an eye. Then it's fun and games you can't see anymore." She continued.
Tapu Koko tried to understand what the heck she was trying to say, while Melody petted her sister's shoulder with empathy.
Mesprit in the other hand laughed here and there which made Tapu Koko stare at her in confusion.
''Just what is funny in these morbid things?'' He asked in his mind as he kept watching the event.
"The general plot of life is sometimes shaped by the different ways genuine intelligence combines with equally genuine ignorance." Continued Hunter before ending her speech. ''The most I can hope for is to die in a pose that confuses future archaeologists."
Hunter kept talking and talking until her time was ended. She bowed with one last sentence.
"In 5-billion years, the Sun will expand & engulf our orbit as the charred ember that was once Earth vaporizes.
Have a nice day." And with that, she disappeared within that dark purple mist leaving the juries in confusion
until Mesprit clapped. "It was great. But still not was funny enough so 6/10.''
Koko looked back at her again in frustration "Just what the heck was great about it? They were not jokes at all. Jokes are not morbid and insane."
Mesprit turned to him with a amusing smile. "It's alright you don't understand it. Not everyone can."
And with that she petted Koko's head who shook her hand off angrily which was so cute to see that Mesprit couldn't help but laugh again.
He was such a kid sometimes.
"Regardless. It was suck, so no points from me." He said seriously. He couldn't help but hear a growl behind him,
which spooked him up a little but when he turned around, no one was there.
"It was a good effort so it is a 8/10 from me." Melody said appreciating the art of black humor.
She also did not liked it but she still needed to play the judge role.
"I really hate black humor so personally, I wouldn't give you any points. However,
I can't ignore the effort what you put into it, so it is a 6/10." Said Lyra nodding before she yawned made her sister glare at her once again.
Seeing this, Lyra just smirked back. She liked annoying her because she made many very funny faces as a result of that
Hunter stayed invisible but seen and heard everything. It was disapointment Tapu Koko reacted like that, but hey it cannot be helped. It was still an okay score
And with that, she left the stage. On the backstage, Monferno gave the wraith a hug of comfort, which made the
"Alright. Next one is, Wartortle. Come out." Koko said as he cheked the list.
Suddenly a loud noise could heard behind the curtain before it splid up
revealing a smug turtle spinning on his shell foward then with a jump land on the center of the stage with a cool pose.
Made the girls expect Lyra and Koko clapping excitedly.
Mesprit and Melody shared a common interest about music and dance so they felt it will be good.
Tapu Koko watched with interest while Lyra started focus on his moves. If there was one thing what she really liked, it was dancing.
So she spent extra focus on the water turtle who kept doing her break dance moves to the music.
As the dance went on, as excited the tow girls were. Wartortle in fact did his moves amazingly. Even Lyra seemed impressed for the first time in the whole day, which hadn't happened before, obviously.
Tapu Koko also moved to the music while he enjoyed the dance.
Seeing Lyra's expression Sneasel couldn't help but grin. In fact, he did not expected those stories of competitions what he shared to them was true.
But indeed it was.
After Wartortle finished his dance with a head spin, he stopped the stereo and bowed. Loud clapping could heard from the juries which made his heart warm.
In fact, seeing the girls expression, especially Mesprit's, was a great honor, which he couldn't say was unappreciated, made him feel appreciated for the first time in the show proper, which was invaluable.
"10/10!"
"'10/10 also! It was so amazing!
Cried both Mesprit and Melody at once with joy and appreciation.
"It was great indeed but I seen better one so 8/10." Said Koko then shrugged seeing both girls' angry expressions on him.
"'10/10 also."
Hearing this everyone, including Sneasel, turned to Lyra who simply looked up at Wartortle with a smile.
"There is one thing that I really appreciate in dance is the passion and experience what dancers make showing their love of the subject.
I admit I was unsure of your work at first, but you showed me wrong completely. Great performance."
Wartortle couldn't help but grin by hearing all of this. "Thank you as well." And with a bow he ran into the curtain.
Behind it, Sneasel waited for him lifting his hand for a high five that the turtle gladly accepted. Considering how brooding Sneasel had been lately, this was quite an uncharacteristic move for him to make, but it showed his performance.
" See? I told you I am amazing." he said proudly as puffing his chest.
"You were, definitely. However it is too early to celebrate. Let's keep watching." Said Sneasel back.
"Next one is Hattrem. Please come." Said Melody now that she found the notepad that Koko lost during the dance.
Seeing that she found it, Koko thanked her as he asked for it back.
However for his surprise, Melody shook her head, saying playfully that it would be better if she held onto it.
This made Koko annoyed, as he did not liked when others treated him like a child. But Mesprit calmed him down saying Melody just wanted to check on the list before giving him the notebook back.
Hattrem was already on the stage looking at the juries waiting for their attention. Tapu Koko's strong emotions made her wince a bit
but holding back the urge to slap him to oblivion, she kept a nice and composed disposition. When Koko got his notepad back, everyone turned to her.
"Okay Hattrem sorry about that. So what will you present us today?" Mesprit asked.
"I will sing an old folk song what I was taught back home by my mother. It's name is the Song of the Sea."
And with that, she took a deep breath and started to sing. Her voice was nice to listen to. In fact, Melody even fleetingly thought that she has a certain talent for that.
Mesprit knew what she felt, and agreed to that. It was not special but it was unique. Which made it special.
Tapu Koko's listened closely. He couldn't help but finding a certain charm in Hattrem's performance.
''Damn, she's actually kinda prett...'' he thought as his cheeks started to take that distinctive pink tinge Mesprit loved teasing him about.
Of course, h e quickly went back to his normal self as he noticed Mesprit's mischievous smile.
Lyra listened carefully with closed eyes. She couldn't help but smile. It was good to hear indeed.
Knowing such an old song as this was good to hear.
Hattrem however, was interiorly pleading for it to end. They couldn't know, but she had gradually had started to pick up the terrible sensibility that characterized Hattrem and her evolutions.
She really wanted this end, but she kept going. She did not want to let her sensitivity ruin her performance.
When she finally finished it, and much to the juries' surprise, she fainted on stage.
Mesprit quickly sprang to her feet and checked her out.
"It is alright. She is just tired. In fact, very very tired." She said as she examined her.
"Oh right I forgot her species can't stand strong emotions can't they?" Melody asked with an apologetic look.
"This makes me more impressed she could go on even while she was in pain. She has a strong self control I can't deny that."
Lyra said amusingly. "it is a 10/10 from me because of that."
"I agree. her voice was also cute and sweet. it is also a 10/10 for me." Melody said as she returned to her chair
"8/10." Said Koko.
"It was great indeed but still, I feel I give her a 8/10." Mesprit said as she teleported her away.
Behind the curtain, Monferno slapped Hattrem on her face to wake her up but it was no use.
"Let's put her on that bunch of clothes in the corner." Said Roserade.
"Oh I hope my lady will be alright..." thought Yamask in worry.
Next Metang came to the stage. Borrowing Wartortle's stereo he started to play a tech music which was called "Wir sind die Roboter"
He started to do his robot pop dance moves which impressed the juries. Metang had surprisingly good coordination for a robot like steel type.
When the dance was done, the jury spoke.
"10/10" from Melody.
"7/10" from Mesprit
"6/10" from Lyra with a yawn.
"10/10. It was freaking cool!" Cried Koko.
When Metang left the stage, Monferno came next. He quickly showed every moves that he learned, which made a great impression of the jury.
"5/10," Said Lyra
"7/10" Said Mesprit
"8/10" Said Melody.
"10/10" said Koko.
The fire Monkey was happy about the note but he was also aware that he could have been better.
This gave him the motivation to try harder in order to complete his training.
Next came Yamask with her harp. She gently floated to the edge of the stage then looked at the juries. Said judges gave her encouraging smiles.
Reassured, Yamask closed her eyes and started playing.
At first, everything went really well, The music what she played was good to hear.
She actually had pretty good talent for this, which could have come at a surprise from the quiet ghost type.
Sadly, from the little cloud she was, letting her soul speak through the music, a bad, ruinous memory came and destroyed her inner peace.
Her former lifr master's cruel words and the abuse she had suffered during her life came back like an hurricane, torturing her soul to the point where she opened her eyes and in a very uncharacteristic fit of rage, destroyed her harp with tears in her eyes. When she finally came back to her senses, she froze, horrified by what she had just done.
"Oh no.." She whispered as she slowly turned to the juries. All of them expect Mesprit was in shock, wondering what the heck had just happened.
Mesprit in the other hand was sad. Knowing Yamask's emotions and past, such suppressed feelings could lead to an outburst.
However, even if this was the case, she still failed the task.
"Sorry Yamask. You started great but after you destroyed your instrument, we can't give you points." Koko said with a sigh.
Yamask did not said anything. Just nodded quietly as she slowly floated behind the curtain, mortified and humiliated.
Behind the stage, her team was in shock. "What was that?" Monferno asked in confusion.
"You wouldn't understand. Trust me." Yamask said quietly as she slowly floated past them, to her lady, who still was asleep. She landed on the ground and stared into nothing.
"..Okay, so the next one is, oh no.." Said Koko angrily but continued. "Bidoof, you annoying little rodent.. you're next."
Bidoof walked to the stage in confidence and started saying his jokes. Which weren't as good as he thought.
As such, when he finished, the sanction was immediate.
"2/10" Said Melody.
"0/10. Just what the heck was that?" Asked Lyra.
"0/10 from me too." Said Koko. "It was worse than Haunter's morbid jokes."
"No! Those were good. These however, were lame as heck." Said Mesprit with a bored look.
"Hey, It is not my fault you all are to stupid to understand jokes." Shrugged Bidoof as he walked toward the curtains
However, before Bidoof had made a few more steps, a trap door opened up under him, making him fall into depths immemorial.
Everyone were curious were that trap came from until they looked at Mesprit's carnivorous smirk. Sensing their curiosity, she just shrugged.
"What? I always keep something for losers like him." She laughed before she put back the remote control into her bag.
After this short intermission, the talent show continued.
Roserade came next with her traditional dance. Her elegance were appreciated and got good result from the juries.
"10/10" Said Melody
"6/10" Said Lyra
"7/10" Said Mesprit.
"10/10" Said Koko.
Rosarade nodded with a smile then went behind the curtain.
"The next one is the croc." Said Koko, but before he could ask where he was, Monferno walked to him with a annoyed sigh.
"Sorry man, he did not wanted to perform. He said he doesn't care. I did my best to make him come but.." The monkey shrugged.
"Oh, that's unfortunate. But, you know this is another bad result for your team. Do you?" Said Koko understandingly and seriously.
"Yup, We know," Said Monferno with a sigh before he walked back from where he came from.
Seeing this Sneasel was now 100% sure they will win. He can't imagine this was finally happening.
"The next and last one is Ninetales." Said Koko as turning back to his list.
Mesprit tensed up. For some reason, she always felt a raging hatred coming from the fox whenever she was here. However, for some reason, it seemed that those feelings were directed toward...her?
She could never read the fox for this reason.
''Why do I always feel like she wants me dead...?'' She asked within herself as the pure white Fox started to get ready.
Tapu Koko however was already oogling the fox Pokemon, much to everyone's amusement.
The Ice fox pressed a button and as such, fashion show like music started blasting. This was Ninetales's cue to start her catwalk...and it was very captivating. She even managed to create a beautiful Northen light show with her power over ice and crystals. She was amazing looking and amazing to watch, the very picture of elegance and grace.
She did not needed to do more, As evident when someone spoke up.
"10/10! It is so so beautiful! I really like northen lights and snow." Said Melody before she turned to her sister.
"Do you remember when we were kids and we visited that place with Mom?"
"How could I forget?" Said back Lyra sadly before she also spoke up. "10/10 as well."
"Ditto" Agreed Koko.
Mesprit however was unsure. She wanted to give her also 10/10 because what she did was really pretty. However, the urge what she felt in her gut made her think otherwise.
Like, if someone want to draw her attention to something. Something important.
"6/10." Said Mesprit finally.
"Are you okay Mesprit? You look strange. " Melody asked worriedly.
"I am alright." Said Mesprit quickly with a glare that immediately made Melody understand that she should not press the subject.
After the show, Tapu Koko clapped and turned to the Camera. ''Thank you for watching the first edition of Sosei's Talent Show! I hope that you liked what you guys all saw! We will now tally the points before announcing the winners. Zacians and Zamazentas, go to the hall and wait for us there. We shall be there shortly! All for you at home, tune in for the next one!'' He said cheerily as the two teams started to head toward the hall in apprehension of the results.
Later that evening, Tapu Koko, Mesprit, Melody and Lyra walked in the hall, which made all chatter cease. All eyes were on the hosts and the judges, eager to know the results.
They didn't have to wait too long however.
"We counted the points, and the winner is, the Zacians." Said Koko looking at his notepad.
Hearing this, Zacians cheered while the Zamazentas just looked at each other, disappointed but eager to get them back next time.
It was only inevitable that their streak was going to be broken one day, but they would come back, that's how they were.
"Zamazentas, as you know, you have to vote off someone in your team." Said Koko.
"We know. And I think we already have the answer to that so no need to wait for the campfire Ceremony" Said Monferno, eyeing the croc who looked back at Monferno defiantly. He would not give them the satisfaction of being pained. Monferno snorted at this defiance and simply raised his hand to designate what he believed was an almost unanimous choice.
"It is obvious that the one who we will choose is Sand..." he started before a tiny voice changed his plans completely unexpectedly.
"Me!" Cried someone behind him. Everyone looked at Yamask as she floating besides Monferno, tears in her eyes.
"Girl, what are you doing? Why?" Asked Hattrem in confusion. After she woke up, Roserade told her what she missed, and she felt bad for the ghost girl.
"I failed...I ruined everything. I just doesn't belong here.." Said Yamask with tears in her eyes.
"No, you did your best! It's Sandile who betrayed us!" Said Hattrem looking at Sandile angrily who simply just shrugged, noncaring at all.
"My lady please, try to understand...If I would made it right, then his betrayal wouldn't be a big deal for us." She said, her face riddled by intense guilt. It was a sad sight.
"Do you really want this?" Monferno asked. He had no issue with Yamask and thanks to Roserade, he could see some good and useful traits in her.
He did not wanted to vote her off and from the sad looks of most of his teammates, neither they wanted to.
"Yes. I feel, I am just... not ready that is all." Yamask said with a sad smile.
"So.. Yamask then?" Tapu Koko asked.
Zamazentas looked at Yamask again, unsure, but they did respected her will.
"Yes." Said Monferno sadly.
"Alright. Everyone go to sleep. Yamask, pick up your belonging before you go tonight. You will have one last confessional, as it is customary." Mesprit said. Touched, She wanted to give the friends enough time to say goodbye.
000
The night went well with Zacians as Sneasel invited everyone for drinks. It was a great day. Being on the winning path was what he felt was something that was his divine right. Someone like him had to win, and lead the others to victory. Failure could not be allowed anymore. Most member of his team had joined him at the bar, with Primarina happy to have so many people staying in her Lounge. It was always nice for lively activities in.
Wartortle for a rare occasion was not with Ninetales. The Ice fox had pretexted being tired and had retreated toward her room, leaving the water type alone for a rare evening. He was sipping on a rather spicy oran berry cocktail when his mind started wandering to his performance during the talent show. He had fun like he seldomly had ever had for a long time. Hip Hop dancing was a passion he had gained on the streets of Castelia. It was part of the three sacred street arts, with Freestyling and Tagging being the other two. He had never told anyone this, but he was essentially East Castelia's dance King, or the aptly named Rank Mirror B. Mirror B was a legend among Castelia street dancers. Apparently, he was a Blaziken that had scoured the street some 100 years ago. He had won every major Hip Hip dancing competition for around 10 years straight, becoming an absolute legend on the field. A lot of Wartortle's dance moves had been inspired by this famous champion.
However, to see Lyra, who was probably the world class dancer of his generation, on live, had made him too eager to show off his skills. It was like an instinct for him to show his stuff. Lyra, the Taciturn Pirouette loving Meloetta, renowned on the dance floor by her beauty and her ruthlessness in combat, whether it was Pokémon or dance battles.
She was legendary on the dance floor and outside of it. Receiving high praise from her had almost made him forget about the games.
''I am so grateful I got to show her my moves...She must be long gone now... Ahh I should have asked for a dance battle...'' He chastised himself as he took another swig of his drink.
''You can still do that you know, I am still here...'' A smug, feminine voice said.
Wartortle gasped, and turned to his left. Brown eyes met auburn one, with the Music Pokemon giving him a confident smile.
The indigo tortoise was far too surprised to speak, so he dumbly stared at Lyra who let a rare, pure laugh out before slapping the Tortoise on his shell with surprising force.
''Don't be gawking at me like I am your silly fox spirit, I know i'm hot but right now, we're both dance artists. I didn't stay at the lounge to be worshipped, so don't you start now!'' She said cheerily but with that edge that quickly snapped the Turtle out of his state of adoration.
Thanking Arceus that the low light of the Lounge hid his prominent blush, Wartortle shook his head quickly, regaining his rough persona. ''You might be THE Lyra, but don't get false ideas, I am still the Mirror B around here.'' He said boastfully, crossing his arms defiantly.
Lyra smiled. ''Now that's more like it'' She said as she turned to Primarina.
''Yo! Barmaid!'' She shouted brashly.
Primarina was taken aback by Lyra's speech, but nonetheless made herself available.
''Put that song on, It's time for me to show my junior here what being a Mirror B is all about...'' She asked cheerily.
''What song would that be? She asked before Lyra gracefully jumped and landed on the counter, so lightly and elegantly that not even the drinks on the table moved. She then proceeded to whisper the beat's name to the selkie.
Wartortle gulped. If Lyra had this much control over her own body, he was in for a long night...However...
''Who cares, I get to have a dance battle with THE Lyra, I wouldn't even think about caring if I win or lose.'' He thought.
As the music started, Lyra asked for the Lounge Mic, which Primarina gracefully provided.
''Alright Zacians, You might have won today, but It seems that your Tortoise still want to prove a point. He wants to Dance battle the Queen of dancing herself, Do you want to see how I squash him?'' She asked like a presenter would.
Somehow, as the music started blasting In the Lounge, all the Pokemon felt pumped and oddly interested to see it. There was something in the way the Meloetta had challenged the turtle, and maybe the music and the alcohol was helping, as every Pokemon present formed a circle around both Pokemon, cheering for the both of them.
Even Sneasel dropped his brooding and erupted in cheers, pumping his fist forward. Lyra smiled. Now this was much more her element. A chrowd, a willing and worthy opponent, the music filling her with energy, the booming base acting a primal heartbeat filling the entire place with an almost mystical energy.
''Selva!'' She shouted as she jumped again landing immediately in front of Wartortle in a hand stand, one spin and and some acrobatic figures before pointing at Wartortle Defiantly.
The Tortoise internally gulped but didn't let it show on his face. After all, showing any form of acknowledgement in a dance fight was pretty much an instant loss, so he stepped hard on the ground, Preparing a rapid spin routine.
It was on!
Surprlsingly, Croagunk came up to Primarina and requested the Mic, with him saying "It isn't a real dance battle without a MC right?" He said with a charming smile.
Taken aback and rather endeared, Primarina gave the frog the mic.
Croagunk then walked in the middle of the two Pokemon, who had started to get into step in order to warm up, grinning as if absorbing the energy of the crowd themselves, and turned to the crowd.
"YO! Would you look at that? We have a B-Boy trying to challenge the B-Queen in a dance battle! But a true dance battle is nothing without a good Emcee and a good crowd! So yours truly, MC Muay Thai, will be your master of ceremonies tonight!
We got DJ Primz over there with the Music provided, which we thank for the occasion, and then there are you guys, the winning side, Zacian crowd that will be checking this battle out! Now Are. YOU. READYYYY!?" shouted Croagunk at the top of his lungs.
Sneasel looked at him appreciatively.
"Well i would never have guessed this of him... He's pretty good at this.."
Bidoof seemed to share that opinion. "Crazy how someone can change given some little alcohol and a mic" he commented, trying his best to be neutral and utterly failing."
Metang rumbled in amusement. "There was still a solid 20% chance that Croagunk was familiar with such proceedings. He is from the streets as well." He commented as the battle started in earnest.
On the other side of the Lounge, in a cozy spot were two eminent presences watching from afar.
Melody was watching with a soft smile Lyra going at it.
"It is such a different Lyra when she's on the dance floor." She commented.
Mesprit nodded. "From what I can see of her emotions, it is night and day. I wonder where was this side of her earlier." She pondered as both watched the unfolding dance battle.
Lyra immediately started tapping her feet stylishly to the ground and chained multiple very difficult dance move that somehow linked classical ballet and hip hop moves into a cohesive choreography that stunned Wartortle. She then finished her routine with a predatory freeze while staring directly in wartortle's eyes. The turtle got the message. A direct challenge to top this routine.
The crowd immediately went "Ohhhh!"
And Croagunk didn't miss any time to explain to the crowd what had just happened.
"Oh my Arceus, did all of you get a load of this? Lyra just savaged her challenger with 16 hip-let moves. It is said that cohesively linking ballet and Hip Hop dancing is almost impossible to do. B-Queen here essentially looked like she did this every morning before breakfast. Wartortle's in for it now, the bar is high, can he respond?"
Wartortle grinned. "Like hell I can't! He shouted before slapping his chest and pointing to the sky, paying tribute to some sort before he brought out his own style out. A series of breakdancing figures, surprisingly matching her in speed and while he lacked her natural agility, the sheer speed and mojo of his dance got the crowd going as well and they made themselves heard as he finished his routine with a reverse headstand while pointing back at Lyra in defiance. He wouldn't simply lay down and be ran over.
Lyra smirked like a shark ready to attack, her pulse reverberating in her temples. A challenger like him who didn't simply fold to her was amazing. Oh so many past opponents had shown a submissive reaction when she had opened with one of her most iconic and overpowering routines. However the blue turtle wasn't backing down and this was vastly appreciated. ''I see that with you, I can go a little harder...'' She muttered to Wartortle as she started once again with a series of steps and Locking, alternating both with such ease that Wartortle genuinely envied her physique, which allowed much more freedom of movement than him with his shell. She then finished with a Relevé routine demonstrating her agility and body control, finishing in a ''Kapow'' pose with her leg held high, before bring it down which had the noise somehow amped to sound like a gunshot.
Wartortle flinched at the display of dominance. She certainly wasn't holding back, the queenie, wasn't she? The Wartortle growled as he jumped, using his won signature king move, the Spinning top rock. With agility and dexterity he combined all of these move in a flowing choreography resembling of a waving flag and worker. Then he showed a total change of pace, going for some Tutting movements, which had the crowds in awe in just how deep was Wartortle's bag of moves was. He kept going for 16 beats, finishing with a combination of Krumping and Plié, ending his routine with a Freeze with his arms crossed. Nodding his head.
''Whoa, have you seen that? From Waving to Spinning to Rocking to Tutting and even putting out some Krumping and Plié! The water challenger just keep them moves coming. Who knew that his bag of tricks was that diverse? Give it up for the Mirror b of Castelia.'' Croagunk shouted as everyone started shouting ''Hey! Hey! Hey!''
Lyra smiled. ''Impressive Turtle. You've been able to keep up with me so far. That is no small feat. But now I'll show you why I am the Queen of Dancing. Consider this an honor.'' She said as she flexed her arms and stretched.
The next 64 beats was like a savage beatdown, given the term of close combat. Lyra went to Wartortle's face, using him almost like prop. She copied every single moves Wartortle had done to a T, without messing them up a single time, then went on to repeat her own moves, then mixed Wartortle's moves with hers with such precision and flair that Wartortle genuinely felt like he was getting sat down in a classroom with Lyra being the teacher. It was like she was reviewing every single one of his moves but did them better. Then finished with a popping routine that finished with her pushing Wartortle to the ground with a simple light touch of her arm on his shoulder, looking down on him with respect but clear domination. Wartortle couldn't even be mad. He had been schooled. He knew it, the crowd knew it, the universe knew it.
MC Thai simply voiced everyone's thoughts. ''Too good, too much, too fast, too strong, too flexible. You tried hard Wartortle, but the Queen is the Queen for a reason. You should be glad to have brought so much of her out. Y'all do you agree!?'' He shouted as everyone cheered.
Lyra gave Wartortle a hand up and they fist bumped. ''You really have some real talent. When this is over, you should pursue a career in dancing and competing, instead of rotting away here. Trust me you're better off.'' She said to Wartortle who nodded and went to the bar table to rest, congratulated for his effort by Croagunk and Sneasel.
Lyra was happy and spent, but felt like occasions like these, where she could let go, were not available enough, so she took the MC Mic and shouted to the lounge.
''The night is young still, who wants to have fun?'' She shouted.
The crowd roared in frenzy and as Lyra led the crowd in line dances, she momentarily forgot about everything that was plaguing her mind, making her almost drunk of that liberating feeling. Once she was done, she then took the mic and started singing, to de delight of the crowd as Lyra's singing was far from bad. In fact, it was very good, with a passion and a kick that made everyone follow immediately.
Mesprit turned to Melody. "Well that was enjoyable. I knew that Lyra had talent, but this is something else entirely. She was amazing..." she said as she turned to Melody, only to realize with stupor that Melody had vanished from where she had been. However, the crowd soon started to grow wild and With a quick scan of everyone emotions, the being of emotions understood why and smiled.
As Lyra was dancing to the beat, someone jumped out from the crowd and started to sing a tune she thought was long forgotten.
''Summer Party oh Whoa Whoa Whoa...''
Turning around she noticed her sister happily moving toward her besides her as she was signing the first line. Lyra did not wait, quickly changed back to aria form and continued with the next line.
'Acting Naughty, oh Whoa Whoa Whoa...''
Melody felt her eyes water a little. Her beloved sister did remember this song and was responding with perfect rhythm. This moment could not be more perfect. And it showed as both Meloetta started shining Golden, with musical notes conjuring and exploding in a shower of light as the perceptive Primarina put the background music. The entire crowd started cheering like they were in a frenzy as the two sister performed the song and dance with reckless abandon.
It was a sincere moment of bliss for both Meloettas. Gradually, the world, their fears and worries, their feelings of longing, their pressure. It was as if everything burned to nothingness since they were so happy to be performing together. As the song came to an end, Melody jumped in her sister's arms, hugging her tightly and lovingly. Lyra was caught off guard, but her happiness quickly overrode that moment as she wrapped her arms around her sister, making both of them fall to the ground without a care in the world. They stayed like that for several minutes, unmoving and content, basking in the moment. Nothing else mattered at this moment. It had felt like the old days, where they would present this to their mother and that she would clap because even back then they were pretty good.
Eventually, they picked themselves up, to the crowd's cheers, and both nodded, ready to give that crowed more reasons to cheer.
Mesprit, who was observing, was amazed at the happiness that emanated from the entire room, and especially the Melodic twins.
it was magical. A magical moment that sadly could not last for ever. As they spent the rest of the evening guiding the crowd in dances and songs in the middle of the night, both sisters were spent but happy. They both thanked the crowd and left the Lounge hands in hands, heading toward the guest compound happier than they had been in a longue time.
000
Wartortle was smiling in the confessional. ''I got my rear destroyed like never before. I went all out, and in response she went all out. I never though she could bend like that and had that kind of core strength. She's amazing...'' He said as he reminisced about the intense dance battle he just had.
000
Meanwhile in the zamazentas camp, Yamask closed her bag and opened the door to go outside. The road to a lonely jump into hell was a long one, but she was ready to leave like she had come, alone.
But before she could go, someone stopped her.
"Yamask.. wait!" Hattrem cried, jumping and hugging the ghost type fiercely.
"Yes, my lady?" Yamask asked waiting what her lady would say as she returned the hug.
Both pokemon stayed embraced in each other's arms, not moving and merely crying.
"You were a slave your whole life before your death. With this Yamask life you got a second chance to live your life as you want to. So please go for it... Remove your shackles, I know that this is what your species does, but please Yamask. You have such a long afterlife in front of you. Find your fulfillment, not in servitude, but as your own Pokemon.'' She said, staring seriously in Yamask's eyes.
The ghost type choked up. In Hattrem's gaze, genuine warmth and care showed . More care and warmth that she had even been directed to in her entire existance... Yamask did not know how to respond to that. "..My Lady I.." she started before being cut off by an almost hysteric Hattrem.
"Don't call me that! You don't belong to no one. Not even to me! Hattrem tearfully interjected. "Go and live your life. Find your peace and the meaning of your life. One where you are you, not someone serving someone else!''
"My...La... Alright. Thank you Hattrem. I will do just that. I don't know if I'll succeed, but I'll try. For both of our sakes." Yamask said with a smile then hugged Hattrem and she did the same.
Hattrem winced, that gradual weakness to strong emotions hurting her again. However, even if she was hurt by her emotions, she was happy she could help for her friend. For them, she would endure any pain, because she cared.
When Yamask let her go, she speak up with a smile. "You know..I never had a friend like you. I was always alone... So, thank you.'' She said with a luminous smile. The rising moonlight, as if to punctuate her point, illuminated her face
"Your welcome. Let's meet again." Yamask said as both friend walked, holding hands and pigtail toward the dock. There also was the entire Zamazentas, Monferno in lead, his face grave and his arms crossed. However, seeing both friends walking together toward the dock make all of them smile. It seemed that Yamask was okay with her fate. No matter where she would be, she would have been a Zamazenta on the first Island of Power. It was something worth being proud for!
000
Yamask was smiling at the confessional. ''I am not afraid anymore. I learned a lot of things and I made my first few friends here. I will never forget them. I will never forget...her.
000
Tapu Koko and Mesprit watched with a smile as the two friends came together on the dock. Staying halfway through, Yamask turned toward Hattrem and hugged her one last time.
''I've got to go now, but let's meet again...'' She said happily
"Yes. Let's meet again." Said Hattrem with a proud, soft smile on her face.
And with that, Yamask jumped into the hole that had appeared as they made their Goodbyes, then the hole closed and that was that.
Hattrem turned toward her room, tears streaming down her face. However, she didn't cry. She knew that despite not enjoying big emotions, and being more and more hurt by them, she would sorely miss Yamask. The others followed suit, hoping that the next day would bring a more joyous conclusion.
Watching them go, Koko's mind wandered. He was unsure of himself. He felt torn apart by his own feelings. He liked Latias, but he couldn't get the newly encountered Lyra out of his mind. He decided to go and sleep to clear his mind.
Later that night, as everyone either prepared to sleep or decided to have some late night training, two Pokemon seemed to be in quite the disagreeing bind at Sosei Lake.
Metang watched, hidden in the bushes, as he watched a certain Monkey and a Lopunny morph argue it out.
It seemed that Monferno wanted to leave to train with Mienshao, but Haunter stopped him. She wanted him to stop going to that ferret, but Monferno shook his head saying he needs her to get stronger.
Then without realizing he started to talk about what Mienshao said about her, which of course made the ghost type angrier, and denied everything while said cruel things about Mienshao.
Monferno did not liked how she talked about his teacher, so he yelled back. It was a pretty ugly scene
As the couple kept arguing, Monferno was enough and left leaving Hunter behind.
Haunter was crying before her eyes took a dangerous tinge. She would kill that ferret one day...no one allowed to steal her boyfriend.
NO ONE!
It was at that moment that Metang's eyes widened. Consumed by hatred, Haunter had started shining...
000
The night of joy and Partying had been gteat and enjoyable for the Zacians and the other guests at Primarina's Lounge, but like everything in life, good things must come to an end. Both Lyra and Melody, in their aria formes, lsft thr bar, humming to the song they had sang together. It had been a moment of such joy, such bliss. Their childhood dream, at long last they were given a taste of what it could look like. Melody in particular so wished that this moment would forever last.
However, despite her amazing mood, Lyra could not share her deepest anguishes with her. She knew that her perceptive sister would want to talk about it, pry everything she could so she could understand, but no matter how liberated she had felt, it was a level she just couldn't unveil. It would have been ih so fitting as well, to finally unpack what she knew, how she felt, what was at stake, but alas, contrary to the beautiful world of fantasy that was performing, reality wasn't as forgiving.
As they approached the compound where Melody stayed, they bold could feel the adrenaline leaving their system and be replaced by this vague feeling of dread and longing, one for recognition amd trust and the other for answers and revelation.
Lyra knew what her sister would think of her answers, thinking she needed help from her, or anyone. A therapist even. Someome to take her worries and pain away. She wasn't so hopeful and did not want to waste energy arguing with her. She so wished that she could just get there, hug her beloved sister without her asking questions and leave the island to continue her mission.
Beside, once she would have achieved her objective, she would explain everything to her and everything would make sense.
As Both meloettas entered the compound and finally the room, Melody sighed. The question had been turning inside her heqd the moment the euphoria of signing and dancing alongside her sister had faded. She had tried to bury it under her bliss of being finally reunited with Lyra but now, as they were alone and as they finallt had an occasion, her caring nature couldn't leave her without asking those question.
However, as she sat down on her bed and watched in slight sadness the other Meloetta lean on the door , her back against it, observing the other Meloetta with a sad smile, instead of coming over and sit next to her like she was wordlessly inviting her to, Lyra's phone rang.
She took it, her face lost all happiness and hardened in a mask of grim focus. It was time to go. Inwardly, she was relieved to have such a rapid team.
"Is it really already time, Lyra?" Asked a soft, sad voice.
The Non shiny Meloetta lifted her eyes from her phone and the sight nearly broke her heart. She was far from heartless, and looking in the shiny Meloetta's begging eyes was tugging at her sisterly love harder than a mother and her child.
However, she knew she had to be strong now, even if it would hurt her sister's feelings.
Taking on a mask of cold, grim focus, Lyra replied affirmatively.
"Indeed sister. I must go soon."
Melody looked down sadly, tears prickling corner of her eyes. For once they had shared a moment of bliss. For once she was right here, her beloved sister. Why couldn't she see how much she had missed her, how much her actions and absence weighted on her mind and well being. It wasn't fair.
...
And this time, she would let it be known.
"Why...Why Lyra? Why can't you stay this time?" She asked with a calm enough voice. However, Lyra knew that her sister was far far from calm.
"Because I am busy. You know how it is. I work, you get to keep on making people smile." She said coldly and matter of factly.
Meloetta snarled. She hated it when Lyra got "business" like with her. It made her feel like she was just an afterthought, just a cute little obstacle that needed to be gently pushed out of the way when she got too nosy. It was so irritating...she just...couldn't anymore.
"Its always this! You are always busy. Always have something to do! We finally could reunite like this, spend time together. You never told me what that "mission" of yours is. Ever since Mom died..you never wanted to stay close to me for more than a few hours... What is wrong with you!?" Said a bitter and sad Melody.
Lyra felt her heart sear, but she couldn't , she musn't break.
"It is for your own good Sister. Besides, you are living a great life, have a horde of adoring fans and even managed to bag the most famous alumni in those type of show you like so much. You should be content with what you have!" She said more dismissively than she wanted. Inwardly, she hated doing this and wanted nothing more than to go and cradle her emotional sister and spill the beans, but alas, her mission was greater than all of the love she had for Melody, despite that very mission being for her sake too.
Melody jumped of her bed and pushed Lyra to the wall. Her face being the most sad and angry she had ever seen her.
"ARE YOU SERIOUS?! IN WHAT WAY DOES MY SUCCESS OR MY LOVE LIFE COULD ACT AS A REPLACEMENT FROM THE HOLE YOUR ABSENCE IN MY LIFE AND THE ABSENCE OF MAMA CREATES IN MY HEART!?" She screamed atop of her lungs, now openly crying.
Lyra shrugged, hating herself more and more for putting on that nonchalant act, but gobbled it back up. "It should. I always have been the most pragmatical out of us. That's why I am on this mission while you get to enjoy your best life for the both of us. I selflessly decided to sacrifice myself for all of you. You can surely sacrifice your desire to keep me at your side for our sakes." She said coldly while gently, but firmly, pushing Melody away.
Meloetta felt heart shatter. "Who did this to you? What did this to you? Who removed every trace of warmth in your heart and replaced it with that cold realism? Did what we just do together back at the bar mean anything? Anything at all? Father told us to stick together...but you are just keeping me at arms length..."
Lyra felt her eyes water but regained her composure. "Now listen here..."
Melody wouldn't have it. "No! You listen! I've had enough of playing the sweet innocent sister! I want answers and I want them now! Why are you like this? What is this mission! You keep mentioning!?" She asked angrily.
Lyra almost considered telling her, but in the end, she just shook her head. "Whoa! I see Mew's taught you well... Do you have the same confidence when he kisses you?" She said cynically.
Melody's features took a dangerous dark turn. "How dare you!" She said before Lyra shrugged looking unphased.
"What? It must be where your confidence stems for..." She reasoned with a small smile, which infuriated Melody even more, triggering her signing an oddly expeditive and angry version of the relic song, transforming her into her Aria form.
"Arrgh I can't believe you are like this, I want my real sister back!" She shouted as she prepared a Jump Kick attack.
Lyra didn't even flinch, immediately knowing that she wasn't attacking for real from the way she had leaped into the air.
"Its not like you've been a model of sisterhood yourself...you know what I am referring to...don't you?" She said, again with more venom than she actually wanted. But she had a very specific goal, goal that she was relieved to see attained as the kick landed on an arm raised in defense, but which did next to no damage as she just swatted her sister back on her bed, her face a mixture of anger and devastating emotional pain.
Before Melody could reply however, Lyra's phone rang a second time. Lyra knew what it meant. Her team was here.
Melody was angry, devastated. Good. It was better that she directed her anger and hatred at her for a time so she wouldn't do something stupid like following her. She knew that her sister was too kind to do anything out of hand, as being the fiancée of this very specific Mew could give her access to resources capable of finding her if needed. She was glad that someone as kind as her was embezzled with the alumni.
Wordlessly, she gave one last look to Melody, who was back in Aria form and trembling with tears as the memories of that fateful day was flooding her and if only Melody had looked in her direction, she would have caught the most love filled and apologetic look a Pokemon could do. But the healing had not yet come.
"Goodbye, Melody. I hope I'll see you again" She said before turning away and leaving, closing the door behind her.
Melody didn't look up. Rather she murmured a set of words that would haunt Lyra for a long, long time.
As Lyra walked down the path toward the camp's entrance, her reason was wrestling with her emotions, bringing her on the verge of tears. She had mentally roughed up Melody back there, and her conscience was torturing her. Changing to her Pirouette form, as she was more comfortable in that form. She wanted to do basically the opposite of what she had done, she so wanted to stay by her sister's side, comforting her and spending more time than she had. She wished she could. But not now.
''I am starting to wish I was born alone.. or that i had another Sister...one who actually cared about me...about us...''
Lyra's tears spilled. That one had hurt...hurt so badly it was almost unbearable to her.
...
And beside...she knew that she had very little time before her relationship with her sister becomes unrepairable...
''I'm doing this for us, you idiot sister...don't make it more difficult than it should be...One day, i'll explain everything to you. I am not the monster you think I am.. I love you so much...'' she muttered softly, yet sadly.
Mesprit, who had been spying from high up under her invisibility granting power, finally understood why Lyra was acting this way and why Melody had been a bit down lately.
She wished she could just go and reveal Lyra's true feelings to her friend, however she had the experience to know that she had no right in interfering with other's emotional journeys.
This was something both sisters would have to figure out by themselves..
Not sooner that she had made it to the edge of the camp's dock that the Car containing her friends arrived. Putting on a brave but grumpy face, and after one last look toward the compound of her heartbroken sister, entered the car and slammed the door in slight frustration.
''Just in time...'' She said, angry, grumpy, but relieved.
The other car occupants looked at each other in worry before Lopunny took the initiative.
''You won't be able to hid this for much longer, Lyra. You will need to tell your sister what is going on before she cut all ties with you...'' She said softly but with concern as they took the one highway connecting the island with the mainland.
Lyra looked at her friend like she had two heads. ''Are you crazy? She would tell me that I am crazy, that I should not do this ''alone'' That I should go to a therapist or even worse, that she wants to help... I don't want her involved in this...not now, not ever.''
The Lopunny, called strawberry, lifted a skeptical look toward her. ''Are you sure about that?'' She asked
''Pretty Sure yes.'' Lyra stubbornly replied, her arms crossed in defiance.
''I had enough of this!" Said Tulip, a Gardevoir, in anger as she opened the car's door and started walking towards the compound.
Seeing this, Lyra quickly got out of the car as, going after her in order to prevent her from doing the worse possible thing.
"Tulip wait!" Lyra called as he caught up with then grabbed her friend's hand in an effort to pull her back while the other just kept walking without looking back at her.
"Listen, I know how serious this is.. but, I just don't feel this is the right time for that...but I will tell her at the wedding party okay? Just please don't tell her.." She pleaded
Tulip finally stopped then turned around. Seeing her best friend's teary eyes along with her panicked emotions was too hard to ignore.
"please.."
Tulip sighed in defeat "Alright. Give me your word!"
"I promise." Lyra said seriously.
The two then walked back to the others who simply watched the situation. Emily even shook her head.
When everyone were in the car finally, Strawberry turned on the motor and gone they all were.
000
Lyra: Melody...i'm sorry...
000
Melody was sitting on her bed when she heard a knock. Then another, then Mesprit walked into the room.
''Mesprit...I...'' She started before her voice cracked and her eyes filled with water.
Mesprit gently wrapped her tiny hands around Meloetta's neck and embraced her.
''I know...let it out...'' She gently encouraged the music pokemon who broke down in bitter tears, lamenting over this sadly finished night.
End of the chapter
SteveZ12: I hope that you guys have enjoyed this chapter. Stay tuned for the rest. It's only getting hotter from here.
Yamask: I...if you want...please rate and review... We'd love to know what you all think...