AN:As of 01/15/2021 this fic has reached over 4,000 views! Keep it up everyone!
AN: As of 01/20/2021 chapters 1-4 have all been edited to meet a higher standard.
The transition has been made. Topaz and Violet's parties have united under one roof. While there is still much to be unearthed between the two (the young Jade is adamant on digging even deeper), Topaz's lost memories have also been stirred. Now even I may now converse with him from time to time… nevertheless, there is much-.
'Helloooo? Anybody home- Oh? Hi there, what's your name?'
E-excuse me!? How did you get here? This is a private realm.
'Magic. So who are you? My name is Jubilee!'
Ahem, I am the narrator and this is the domain of my very limited influence.
'It's kind of small... It must be boring to have to do this all the time. Here, I'll do this narrator thing so you can go jump into the story!'
Please that is highly-
'LAST TIME ON HYBRID: TOPAZ EDITION, Volkner got a house and Topaz and Violet live with him! Violet's still being a prickly Maractus, but she's getting better! Topaz' brain got messed UP, and Amethyst feels really bad about him being in a coma. But it's okay, he got better! Jade also came in to throw lots of shade. It's okay Jade, they're not gonna take your best buddy! Everyone can be best buddies!
Is Violet still a super prickly Maractus? Is Topaz's brain better? Does Jade still choose violence like Lou does? Find out all that and more this time on Hybrid: Topaz Edition!'
Sigh...
~x1x~
PoV: Topaz Heart
Date: December 4th
Location: Sunyshore Docks
"Lou, block with Iron Defense!"
Lou's body shone silver before the enemy Whirlipede crashed into him with Rollout. The sudden solid impact caused them to slam painfully against my righteous bug, flying way over him.
Lou took it upon himself to seize the chance and strike the bug type with a quick Thunderbolt before they even hit the ground, the damp wood sizzling from the sudden heat. I could hear Whirlipede's trainer grunt in annoyance at the sight.
"Come on, Whirlipede! Poison Sting!" Their trainer commanded. One of the dock employees who was bored and deemed me a weak opponent. I was quickly proving him wrong.
Whirlipede set themself right again before firing dozens of tiny needles at Lou. Luckily, we've fought with Flax more than enough to know how to deal with needle moves such as this.
Lou needed no further instruction as he used Screech to knock the needles midair whilst bombarding the Whirlipede, lowering their defense.
"Finish it with Acrobatics!" I called. Lou shot a string line onto a crane to give him something to swing on. He reeled himself in before cutting the web, swinging through the air with expertly practiced grace. His pincers shone a beautiful light blue before he struck the dazed Whirlipede right on their side, avoiding their pins.
They flew back a bit before collapsing on the ground, defeated.
The trainer shouted more commands to his Pokemon, but the battle had ended. Lou huffed at his opponent before crawling back to me. Donut clapped for us on the sidelines.
"Damn, we'll get'em next time Whirlipede," Our opponent muttered, recalling his fallen teammate. "Good fight, never seen a Pokemon with no limbs move through the air like that."
Lou huffed proudly, crackling with electricity. "Thanks, Whirlipede's Rollout was pretty speedy too actually," I complimented in return. I couldn't remember if we exchanged names, but that didn't matter as shortly after I saw he had transferred the earnings we had bet on after the match.
"That was easy, but you're the best middle stage bug in the city, aren't ya Lou?" I boasted. Lou preened under the compliment as I sprayed a potion to tend to whatever minor wounds he may have obtained. "Donut, you want to fight the next one?"
Donut didn't immediately answer, which didn't really surprise me. He'd been more quiet after I had gotten out of the hospital. I am unsure if he is cross with me or just the world. On December 3rd, I was finally able to leave the hospital after sleeping through two days basically.
The doctors were able to conclude that if I regularly take the medicine they prescribed me, my brain psychic sensitivity would improve enough to where I could have Pokemon communicate with me via telepathy without issue. I would still be a bit more sensitive so I should avoid further mental assaults, but I think everyone avidly avoids them.
To shake off my body's rust, I've been challenging trainers on the docks today. Sometimes they have some brand new Pokemon to battle, so I could add to the Pokedex as seen. The other day had given me far too much to think about and the more I did, the more disturbed I felt, especially as Volkner refused to divulge what he and Lucian had gathered. Today was the day for a bit of training and avoiding further dark thoughts.
"Donut?" I asked again since he didn't respond. I finished cleaning up Lou before turning to Donut whose ears were on alert.
"Pika…" He whispered apprehensively. His ears kept twitching and his tail was up. The tell tale sign of a Pikachu on alert. In other words…
There's a threat nearby.
Donut gave me a brief look that exchanged enough for me to subtly begin reaching into my bag for my baton. Lou was already paying attention to strike whenever necessary. I got up to move to a more populated location as the opposing trainer had left earlier. It was midday, but we had gone to a safer, more isolated location to fight.
We began to make our way through the dock. All of us, vigilant to whatever dangers that were close. The possibilities began to circle through my mind.
Could Benedetto's men be back for vengeance? No, they took them all in and even then my name wasn't made privy to anyone. Team Galactic? What would they want with me? To be kidnapped for another Helheim? Or could it be-
I could hear something step forward from within the shadows of an alley we had just begun to pass. Instinctively, I leaped out of the way as Donut and Lou jumped into the air to let loose a rapid Thunderbolt and Mud Shot at whoever attempted.
The Thunderbolt did no visible damage to the first opponent whilst the Mud Shot seemed to simply pass through the other.
"The opponents are immune to electric and ground moves! Iron Tail and X-Scissor!" I commanded immediately. As far as I'm aware, no Pokemon is immune to steel or bug moves.
My team followed commands immediately leaping at our opponents before they could counterattack. I raised my baton ready to support if need be when I saw something move in my periphery. I took a step to the side and whirled around with my baton to strike back or block whoever dared to back attack me.
My baton clashed with a long wooden staff. The impact wasn't as strong as I expected and I quickly realized my blow was stronger than my assailant's. I finally got to look into my attacker's eyes and I audibly groaned.
"Jubilee!?"
"Topaz!" Jubilee cheered as though she was greeting a childhood friend. I on the other hand bounced back, turning to my team who had clashed with her Misdreavus, Hecate, and Mudbray, Merlin. Donut and Lou returned to my side as we all stood at a standstill. Lou gave Merlin a deadly glare, recalling how he had nearly squashed him in their last bout.
"Come to finish what we started?" I demanded, twirling my baton. "Let's go!"
Jubilee stared at me funny before laughing. Her team strode to her side without taking their eyes off us. I took the time to analyze her once again. She wore a black middle school uniform with a large purple ribbon and various anime pins on her blazer. Her hair was in pom-poms and she wore a neat beret on her head.
Did she just come from class?
Otherwise, she looked fairly normal sans the long wooden staff and ever present glitter that seemed to be on her.
I looked at my hand to find that some of her sparkles had gotten onto me.
Goodie.
"I'm not here to fight you, silly. That was just a friendly sneak attack. I wanted to make sure you haven't gotten complacent just because you took down the big bad smuggler," Jubilee giggled. "By the way, I give you a T for terrific! Nice job, Donut, Lou!"
Donut eyed the opposing Pokemon once again and lowered his ears and tail. Whatever hostility they had was gone now. Lou was a bit more fumigated as he began buzzing at the opposing Pokemon, primarily Merlin. Hecate giggled at his outburst whilst Merlin scoffed in annoyance. It seemed he didn't quite share his trainer's penchant for antics or care for Lou's rivalry.
"A friendly sneak attack? Is that how they do it in Dispetto? Should I be expecting a wholesome backstabbing or maybe a vicious beating next?" I responded with dripping sarcasm.
"Actually we call them brutal pummelings now," Jubilee corrected me as she holstered her staff and made her way over to me with her team. I raised my baton as a sign to back off, but she didn't care at all as she began to invade my personal space to sniff me.
I began to back up. "H-hey, this is harassment!"
"I knew I smelled something fishy here!" Jubilee exclaimed leaning back. I raised my armpit and sniffed.
"Well, we are at the docks. There tends to be lots of fish here. And before you try to say it's me again, I'll have you know I am an avid fish hater! I do not eat any fish and have no desire to!" I defended myself. Donut sighed deeply for some reason.
"Huh? Oh yeah you're right it does smell like fish around here- blech. What I mean is that you smell like Strength now. But you also smell like the Hermit, which I did not see coming. Weird…" Jubilee mumbled to herself.
I gave her a stern look. "I'll admit, your advice wasn't… useless. But I got the Hermit on my own okay!" I stood firm making my stance known. "Actually, how do you know all this? Do you know what the cards mean?"
"Cards? Are we playing Uno? Just so you know, I will Draw 4 you into infinity." Jubilee got into a fighting stance. "If you're not talking about Uno, I know about your arcana because of magic."
Is magic her answer to everything?
I groaned once again, tired already. "You've mentioned that before and you'll have to excuse me if I don't buy it. At all. Magic? What are you 12- um, are you 12?" I figured I may as well ask.
"Indeed I am, bestie! And no best friend of mine isn't gonna believe in magic! I don't share my secrets with anyone, so you should be happy we're so close."
I screwed my face in confusion. "I'm not your best friend. I never consented to this and if I did I won't admit it now. What the hell?"
"You didn't get my email? Check your phone," Jubilee pointed to my pocket giggling.
As soon as she did I got a jingle from my phone. I took it out to find a new email with the subject line 'I told you so' from Jubilee. I stared at my phone in disbelief before turning to her. Jubilee wore a satisfied shit eating grin that I swore she must've learned from Jade. The energy was too similar.
"You could've just scheduled this," I protested.
"Aw come on, doing magic on tech is hard! But if you still won't believe me… a Feebas will jump out of the water and evolve in midair in about… 10 seconds," Jubilee guessed.
Before I could protest she turned my head to stare at the water. 10 seconds later a large, confident Feebas leaped above the tides before they were engulfed in light. They were a Milotic before they splashed back down into the water.
"Pika…" Donut was equally awestruck as me.
"Feebas don't even swim around here, what the-"
"Aughhh!" Jubilee groaned before she snapped her fingers and a bouquet of flowers appeared in her hands. Literally just appeared out of nowhere. The only sign they weren't there before was the sparkles that just exploded from her hand after she did that. "Magic exists, Topaz! And you're mixed up with it!"
I stared at her dumbfounded for what felt like a solid minute. I'll be the first to admit that my life doesn't make much sense. Especially nowadays. But magic… is so archaic. In ancient history, Pokemon were deemed 'magical creatures' and to be feared as we couldn't understand them.
Now? Even the most nonsensical Pokemon and move has some scientific explanation. Pokemon aren't magical. They are the pinnacle of biology and just because humanity cannot understand that doesn't make it magical.
At the same time… humans are an oddity in themselves. What if we are the byproducts of magic instead?
I shook my head at the notion and looked at my team. Donut was intrigued, whilst Lou was still a bit incensed to care. Donut climbed onto my shoulder and whispered into my ear. Course I can't understand him, but I've spoken with him enough to know he wants to hear more. We've had questions about these cards for years and now we have 4 out of 22.
"...elaborate."
Hecate chuckled ominously while Jubilee squealed in delight. She threw the flowers into the air and they exploded into sparkles.
"How-"
"Magic. Anyway, I am a fortune teller and my main medium of magic centers around the tarot cards arcana. I perceive people's lives by the heart of the cards, from The Fool to The World. There's other mediums, but they aren't relevant for us. Usually, people only have one major arcana defining their current state in life. They might have another arcana accenting that and a few minor arcana sprinkled in," Jubilee explained. She studied Donut on my shoulder a bit.
"If I had to say… little Donut here is The Fool's Judgement. Which means he shares in The Fool's desire to learn and see the world, but he's got a clear and unshakeable sense of self akin to Judgement. He knows who he is, he just wants to know how far he can improve. It must be why he decided to join your team. You likely promised him a life worth living and he figured it'd be better than whatever he was doing then."
Donut and I gave each other amazed looks. She was actually… pretty spot on.
"Topaz, your core tells me you're a Fool-"
"Hey-"
"You know what I mean," She cut me off. She pulled out a Fool Tarot card. It was quite… Jubilee in design. With a flashy girl in a skirt prancing by a cliff with a Rockruff by her heels. They moved like a gif.
"I made my own deck of Tarot cards! Not with magic though, I made the designs by hand. I used magic to make the images move! Anywho, the first in the deck, The Fool, number 0, but first doesn't mean worse. In this case…" Jubilee studied my face a moment. She then reached out and began messing with my face, pulling my cheeks.
"Jubilee. Space. Please."
"Oh, sorry! Just making sure I got it right," She took a step back. "I'd say you're a risk taker, but only because you have certainty in your team more than yourself, but they give you the confidence you need to push on. Although you've got spades to spare. You're also malleable… you're open to new experiences and thus love to learn. I'm guessing battling is not the only thing you love about Pokemon."
She looked at the three of us. "Pokemon tend to take on their trainer's ideals if their hearts are compatible, but they manifest differently. I can sense the same… essence from you in Donut and Lou, too. You three aren't bound by fate, no… I think you're bound by chance. The blessing wouldn't have spread to them if it didn't believe them fit. You're lucky to have such a great team, Topaz! Nice work!"
I awkwardly scratched the back of my head. I was keeping up, but it was a lot to take in, although I knew my bond with my team was genuine. I am glad to hear it's spiritually and blatantly obvious as well. Her words seemed to assuage Lou's anger for a moment.
So we're not a part of some 5,000 year old prophecy?
"What's super weird is that you've got the essence from three other people besides your own within your heart. What's up with that?"
Hmmm. Well, Donut and I got one when we officially became a team. Sounds like that card is supposed to represent not only myself, but my team. I got one for Jade after the Little Cup. The one for Violet was after defeating Benedetto. Volkner was after we moved into the new home…
"I think… I get them after major points in a relationship," I contemplated. I've known Volkner the longest yet got his last, meanwhile I knew Violet for two days before I got hers. "It doesn't really follow a pattern. It's like indiscriminate milestones. Does that ring any bells?"
Jubilee hummed loudly, stroking her chin. She whispered to Hecate for a moment before speaking to me. "I have no clue why that's happening!"
Fuck.
"It doesn't sound bad. I wouldn't worry though," Jubilee smiled, spawning a hot chocolate to sip.
I doubt anything worries you.
"Thanks," I said ungratefully. "Can you explain your magic business at least?"
Jubilee stopped mid sip as if she just remembered something. "Oh yeah, I forgot."
She cleared her throat. "Imma have to skim on the deets, a true magician never reveals her secrets! Anyway now… Magic exists. Different regions have different styles. Sinnoh has the oldest as it originated here. According to the texts I've found humans learned magic to be on par with Pokemon, emulating their moves in nonsensical unexplainable ways. I dunno how…" Jubilee gestured for me to lean in. I… actually did, as I was now invested.
"But I think it's from some other worldly force and they say Sinnoh is where the world began, right?" Jubilee whispered.
"...could it have something to do with the creation trio," I asked, quietly.
"No clue, but I'll look into that!" Jubilee jumped up shouting, surprising me. "Moving on. You're right, Pokemon aren't magical. At all. Only the magical types like Misdreavus or Delphox can, but they were prolly Pokemon created by magic or bathed in magic juice. Golett definitely was created by something magical. Even then, their magic isn't as diverse as a human."
"I suppose there are magical-ish types. Fairy, ghost and dragon for example, but psychic types do some wacky stuff too. But I think that's just big brain power more than anything," Jubilee shrugged.
I recalled how Volkner said I could never be a psychic and decided to ask. "Can I use magic?" I flexed my hands expecting lighting to flow through them.
"Are you an Alter?"
"Uh, yes?"
"Prolly not very well then. Magic doesn't like most Alter blood for reasons I cannot say…" Jubilee muttered to herself. "Which is weird since you smell like magic, but now that I'm talking to you, I'm wondering if it even is magic."
"Let me get this straight. First you say I smell like magic, then you explain I've got magic inside me, you explain magic, but then all of a sudden I'm not even magical?" I tried to gain some sort of understanding of this mess.
She's a tornado.
Jubilee blew a raspberry. "Well, I'm still learning, mister! I'm a magical extraordinaire, but it's hard to tell without any other examples. All I can tell you is what I've figured out or read. The only other possibility I can think of is that you've got a legend's blessing. So? Been seeing any almighty legendary Pokemon today?"
"Ya know, I think I saw Yveltal flying overhead the other day-"
"Real-"
"No," I deadpanned, relishing in the satisfaction of cutting her off this time. "Here's what I do know: I can't remember anything before I was six, missing parents and a cryptic fancy man talking in my head. Ring any bells?"
Jubilee's face reacted at the last bit. "I swear to Palkia I had a dream about a fancy man voice, but I can't remember what it was about. Dream diving is hard and all I wanted to do was help Eclipse with her nightmares."
"Eclipse?"
Jubilee covered her mouth as her two Pokemon gave her looks of caution. "I'm saying a bit too much. I forgot you're a League lover."
And I forgot she was Dispetto. What the hell am I doing here?
"What is Dispetto's aim? Why go against the League? Cynthia even? Your group can't beat her," I proclaimed.
Jubilee giggled at that. "You should know better than anyone to not accept futility. Is it so wrong to seek positions of power? You'd be surprised by how deeply invested we are into Sinnoh's wellbeing. Do you think the peace we have now is just because of the League?"
My glare remained firm. The life she leads with Dispetto… I was curious, I'll admit. But my loyalty remained with Volkner and the League. I wasn't gonna falter in her face.
Jubilee frowned. "You've got a super serious gaze, Topaz. Way different than when we last met. I don't need to see the future to know you'll get in Dispetto's way, but even when we clash for what we believe is right… I hope we can remain friends. Until then… promise me you'll keep our little chat secret. Okay? It's only fair."
I turned to my team for opinions. Lou was merely grumbling now and just scoffed. He didn't care. Donut nodded slowly. Jubilee revealed a lot to them even though we are enemies. Donut seemed to respect her candor. I do as well.
"So many secrets in my brain nowadays… fine. But push me too far and I'll spill. Get in my way again and Lou will be forced to take action," I affirmed staring her down.
Jubilee chuckled innocently before leaning in an inch away from my face. Her tone remained cheerful, yet conveyed serious intent "Do not take what belongs to Dispetto again. We aren't all as understanding as Galena and myself."
She leaned back delivering a wondrous smile. For some reason I could sense that she meant that as a genuine warning rather than threat.
What the hell is the rest of Dispetto like?
"Now that you know all that, you've just got to take my card." She handed me what I assumed was a business card.
When I turned it over I saw a card with a giant wooden wheel. Circling around the circle were the letters to spell 'Jubilee'.
In each corner of the card there was a different magnificent Pokemon: Mismagius top left, Mudsdale top left, Tyranitar bottom left, Dusk Lycanroc bottom right.
On top of the wheel comfortably sat a girl in a fortune teller's attire holding a beautiful staff. The background of the card was ethereal, as though I was floating through outer space. At the bottom of the card read: Fortune X.
"The Wheel of Fortune?" I whispered. "Did you give me the wrong card?"
Immediately I could feel the presence emerge from the card. Whilst the Hermit card had exuded the pleasant feeling of quiet isolation, this card was writhe with spontaneity.
It refused to let its energy move in predictably and if I tried to move against it, I could feel my strength wane.
No, this card was either sink against it or swim along. I had no control here, but once I had accepted that I got along much better.
"Huh? Woah!" Jubilee grabbed my hand with the card in it."That isn't one of mine! Oh my gosh, I even looked at the card I gave it to you too! Whatever magic or blessing you've got on you, they definitely know how to be slick about it!"
"Fortune… it spins at an unpredictable whimsy. It does not seek to control, simply move at its own unpredictable, dynamic pace," I explained to my team. "They are also known for being exceedingly positive."
"Yup, that's me!" Jubilee gave a thumbs up. "I think you've got the go with the flow mojo down, though. You took my magic explanation almost as well as my brother! Guess that means our best friendship reached a milestone! Oooh, this is so much fun! I've gotta go now, but here is my real card. Get more tarot cards soon! I wanna learn what your deal is." Jubilee handed me a real business card and hugged me before I could respond. "Bye Topaz, Donut, Lou!"
"Jubilee wait!" I called out and she turned around curious. She was the most confusing, spontaneous, hyper and weird person I had ever met. Technically we were enemies, but…
It's alright to call her a friend.
"I'll see ya later."
Her smile widened even more at that.
Donut waved goodbye as Jubilee ran back to the alley with her team in tow. There was a bright flash of sparkles and confetti as soon as she was out of sight. I ran over to see if she was kidding, but she was… gone.
Donut looked relatively amused, meanwhile I just held her business card and tarot card in my hand. Lou was buzzing angrily about wanting to get his rematch.
"I need to sleep off today. It is time for Topaz and team to leave. We have seen everything," I quoted. Donut chuckled at my reference, while Lou buzzed softly.
"We still need exercise so… I'll race ya both!" I shouted bolting off. Donut jumped off my shoulder following right by me with a playful expression. Lou caught on quick, swinging by us through the air.
~x2x~
PoV: Topaz Heart
Date: December 8th
Location: Local Library
The library was quiet at this time of night. Peaceful. Like a lo-fi playlist. In order to toil away at my research I needed this peace. My eyes skimmed through the 3rd mythology book I had taken out today and it was likely not going to be my last. Whenever something of interest came up I memorized the passage and recorded it into my laptop.
Donut was curled up on the table, sleeping soundly. Lou had elected to rest in his Pokeball till we got home.
Rather than allow my life to grow so out of control I never have any clue as to what is happening, I've taken the time to do some preemptive research. It's been slow going, but I've gathered quite a bit about the mysteries surrounding my life.
"So in some interpretations Mew is used to represent The Fool arcana? Neat," I muttered to myself.
Mew are far too whimsical to cryptically bother a human like me.
My research has extended to history, mythos, fortune telling, neuroscience and vague pokemon abilities. None of it has proved conclusive, but I have some leads.
Starting with Rhea, the woman my mother mentioned in my memory. After asking my grandparents they recounted she was my mother's best and likely only friend besides my father. She was a fellow researcher who worked alongside them under Rowan.
As for why I didn't remember her, it's because I've never truly met her. She died in the Tohjo War when I was just a baby. I could not even speak yet.
"A tragedy the world will remember forever…" I whispered, reviewing my notes of the event.
For decades Kanto had been innovating and advancing science to extreme degrees. Quality of life for humans had improved immensely during that time, but with each new advancement they began to encroach on Pokemon territory and truly began pushing the ethical boundaries. Their mindset put progress before the potential consequence of their actions, unlike their sister region Johto.
Johto adamantly cherishes the past, even more so than Sinnoh. The region remains simple and minimalistic to this day, with many old traditions still in use. A very conservative region in that regard since even Sinnoh advocates for more liberal and technological advancements. Sunyshore City is a prime example.
Too conservative in my opinion. There's honoring the past, but they seem to uphold it above true progression.
It was only a matter of time until Kanto began trying to hoist their philosophies onto Johto who, at the time, firmly believed there was a reason why there was a large mountain range separating the two regions. To keep them out.
Unfortunately, Kanto kept on pushing, even attempting to take over the League of Johto, making it all unified.
There was conflict between the regions for a long time, until full blown battles began. Most of which were incited by the budding Team Rocket that wished for war to gain a foothold in society once the Indigo League asked for assistance.
Nothing like a good war to make money and friends.
Other regions were contacted to choose sides and my mother and Rhea volunteered to assist in Kanto as scientists. They were supposedly safe from combat until…
"Mewtwo, the genetic Pokemon," My voice shuddered at the word of their name, as I looked over the limited Pokedex data on #150.
Mewtwo, according to what has been founded, is the clone of Mew mixed with human DNA. It created an even more dangerous and violent being than Mew themself, the mythical that can learn every move.
Violet would prolly say that's what happens when humans taint pure entities.
Entire battalions were powerless against such a fearsome Pokemon. Team Rocket, the group responsible for their creation, seemingly vanished after they had lost all semblance of control. Both sides of the war had to cease their fighting to turn against them.
In the end… Mewtwo is still a Pokemon. The last nominal sight of Mewtwo was from some old battle footage. They had lost control of their power which had allowed an opening for soldier Pokemon to attack. Mewtwo sustained heavy damage including impalement, yet still managed to blow away the competition. After battle they fled, likely to recover from their injuries.
Heavy casualties were sustained on all sides, including Rhea. My mother suffered severe wounds and was sent back to Sinnoh. According to my grandparents she was stable, but never truly right after that.
Was Mewtwo responsible for my mother's downward spiral? No… it was Team Rocket. Either way, both are dangerous.
After Mewtwo vanished the war quietly ended. Kanto and Johto came to an agreement and are now on amicable terms under a united League. Team Rocket has disbanded twice now. Former Johto champion Ethan was the last person to associate with Mewtwo judging by the updated Pokedex records from a few years ago.
I leaned back in my chair trying to find more connections. Rhea specialized in resource management and was in Kanto to offer alternate means besides expanding a domineering influence over Johto. My mother specialized in Pokemon advancement to… help expand the domineering influence over in Johto.
Crazy ass bad cop, good cop routine they had going on.
Rhea died in a facility explosion caused by Mewtwo. Burnt to a crisp. From all the information I could gather she was a shy, very much well liked woman. Exceedingly intelligent and loved by her Volcarona, Lifa. She had no blood relatives, but considered my mother and father family.
At least I can understand my mother's mental state. She lost so much in that war.
Besides that… I found nothing of substance about my situation or magic besides mythos. I took note of it just in case, but whatever was happening to me, very well could be undocumented or completely new. Pokemon's abilities are vast, but even the same species do not share the same skills. At the very least as Jubilee said… it didn't feel bad.
A benevolent force has joined my side and it has something to do with these cards… maybe if I ask that voice again it'll make sense. Jubilee mentioned hearts a lot. Maybe because my last name is Heart…? Ugh, coincidental thinking.
I looked at my newest cards: Strength, Hermit and Fortune.
Numbers 8, 9 and 10 received in order. Is that coincidence too?
I checked the time and began packing my things. I recalled Donut in order to not disturb as I made my way out. My mind broached the topic of once again asking my grandparents about Nero, but my stomach backflipped at the thought.
Not yet. Not anytime soon.
~x3x~
PoV: Jade Forrest
Date: December 10th
Location: Training Field
"Flax use Weather Ball on Shizu! Shizu use that heat for Fire Blast!" Jade commanded from the sidelines.
Flax gathered energy from the Sunny Day he had set into his petals and launched the ball straight into Shizu, activating Flash Fire. Shizu focused her inner flame utilizing the fire from Flax, before only launching a bolstered Flamethrower at the practice dummy.
Shizu turned to Jade with a worried expression, but his stance remained the same.
"Try 3 more times. If you don't get it we'll switch to Flax practicing Solar Beam."
Jade's team got back into high gear immediately. The young lad simply watched impassively. They would get it right eventually, all he had to do was wait.
His Pokemon could tell he was more bothered by his own thoughts then their inability to produce results and continued on. Flax knew well that ever since Violet and Amethyst came into their lives he had become filled with immense disdain towards them. Especially after Topaz's hospitalization.
He believed their presence will only bring further conflict and that Violet's abrasive personality and immense misanthropy were disgraceful. He loathed idealistic personalities. To him they were the most overbearing and the most foolhardy.
Shizu was completely dedicated to Jade. As canine Pokemon tend to be. Her simple minded attitude annoyed Flax at times, but he dealt with it. Himself on the other hand simply hoped that something else could distract his trainer from his mental turmoils. As he got ready to summon another Weather Ball a shrill voice interrupted him.
"Jade! Jade! Where are- Oh finally there you are!" Jade's mother, Lucrecia Forrest, bounded over to him immediately. Lucrecia is a beautiful woman, her vocation demanded it. She has an excellent hourglass figure, a rather voluptuous body and a perfect afro. She approached her son in weather appropriate clothing, but it was designer all the same.
Any who would ask would say she's a pleasant woman. Those close to her though know she's exactly where Jade got his more hostile mannerisms.
It was rare for her to come to the training. Even his team were curious about her presence.
"Mum… you know where the training fields are?" Jade teased, stroking his hair back. A trait picked up by his mom.
Lucrecia stroked her own hair out of her face. "Don't be fresh with me. I'm here to pick you up. You've got an audition!" She squealed in delight. "Flax and Shizu should come too, they'd be perfect for the photoshoot."
"Seriously? This again?" Jade groaned in annoyance. Lucrecia was formerly deeply interconnected with the entertainment business in Galar, but her husband had to move to Sunyshore in order to improve his career years ago.
Luckily, she was an adaptable woman and found joy in bringing her skills to Sinnoh's vibrant contest community. Although she has found less success as being a judge in contests or doing early morning aerobics classes wasn't as appealing to her as MCing dynamax battles.
"I haven't done anything like that since I was a kid when you used to make me do those toy commercials. It was cute, but time consuming and I don't wanna deal with any fans."
His mother pouted before taking out her phone, displaying auditions for Lumifrost themed photo shoots for clothing brands. "Look at my arrogant son thinking he's more appealing than the competition. Good. Keep that up, they love confidence. Come along now, we've got to freshen you up."
"Someone's in a rush. I wonder why…" Jade questioned sensing some urgency in his mother's voice. His mother faked a smile, looked around for any passerby and pulled him in.
"It's because of your father," She whispered.
Jade furrowed his brow. "What is he dead?"
It was a valid question.
"Blimey Jade, come off it!... Worse, he's useless! We moved all the way to Sinnoh for his job and he's fucking it up. Don't expect too many Christmas presents this year because we've got bills to pay," She muttered disdainfully. "Since your father can't seem to do his job right, we need to step up."
Jade chuckled. His father spent most of childhood on business trips or minding his own business. He's had his moments, but those moments were not enough to raise Jade's opinion.
"So what? You're hoping I'll become some superstar child actor? I'm flattered," He bowed in a snide manner.
"Bugger off," His mother bonked him on the head. "You have talent my son and you're squandering it. If only we lived in Galar. Where it's warmer and I actually had something to do…" Lucrecia began to fantasize of the life she could've had, but quickly reeled herself back in. "Unfortunately, it's a bit harder to get a foothold in Sinnoh, but luckily you're my son, which means you have nepotism and skill on your side. You are eloquent, speak the language of flowers, your artistic skills are inspiring and most importantly."
She tilted his head up and began fixing his hair. "The camera will love your face. Thank the heavens you've retained your father's good looks. You'll age handsomely."
Jade stared into his mother's eyes and he could practically see the dollar signs and her imprinting her wants and dreams onto him. It had taken a few years longer than he expected, but she finally did it.
"That sounds very nice and narcissistic, but I really don't care, Mum. I can get famous for my art my own way and I can't keep up with Topaz if I'm wasting my time doing cereal commercials!" Jade exclaimed. Shizu barked in agreement.
His mother's face remained plastered as she knelt down and stroked her hair back. She took a deep breath before clapping her hands.
"Jade. If you want to keep living in this city, this region, you will do this photo shoot and many more. If you want to maintain the quality of life you have right now, you're gonna need to bend a bit here because I have no faith in your father so we might as well make something of ourselves. Topaz's uncle powers the entire city. He will be fine. You will not be once we're flying back to Galar to live with the heathens you call grandparents."
Jade's scowl remained sound, but that proclamation unnerved him. Lucrecia hated her in-laws more than her husband or a bad haircut.
"It's that bad?"
"Would I be crawling to my 12 year old son for financial aid if it wasn't that bad? When I said your father was useless, I meant he was detrimental. He can't invest for shit. Our life is on fire and apparently I'm the only one who brought an extinguisher," She accentuated. "If you're so concerned about battling, then don't worry, everyone loves seeing a child prodigy. You'll have more battles than a gym leader. You just have to win them. Now may we leave?"
Jade took a second to think about it. While he usually couldn't be bothered, once his father got his life together then maybe things would turn out okay. His Pokemon could come so it wasn't too bad…
"Rose, roselia!" Flax spoke up, which was unusual, but he had a dream of being on the big screen like a movie star. This sounded close enough and he wanted to try it. Jade gazed at his partner Pokemon before finally relenting.
"Fine, but you owe me."
"Is the jumpstart of your career not enough of a gift? Hey! Take that look off of your face. You and I both know you're too vain to not love this, you'll be fine. Flax, Shizu come along now. You're all gonna be stars!" Jade's mother gleefully skipped away at the thought.
Jade's mind began to reel at her sugar coated promises..
I swore to Topaz I'd protect him and I can't do that if I can't even secure my own livelihood. Like hell I'm leaving him with Jungle Jane and the sadistic cat. I'll go through with this and see where it takes me.
~x4x~
PoV: Evangeline Morebucks
Date: December 12th
Location: Gracidea Garden
"Now now, don't fight, there's more than enough for everyone."
Evangeline gently chided the small fairy types that had come for the sugar cookies she had baked as snacks. The eager Mime Jrs. and Azurills jumped for joy at the scent of them. Marjorie, her Steenee, made sure each fairy got at least one and that they all had a chance to enjoy their sweet treats before they returned to their dwellings.
"You're popular, aren't you?" The Sunyshore boy proclaimed behind her.
Evangeline handed out one last cookie before she took a seat at one of the many ornate outdoor tables they had placed in the sanctuary.
"My family has been charged with protecting this sanctuary. It is only befitting that the denizens are fond of me on a personal level, wouldn't you say?" She defended.
The Sunyshore boy simply shrugged taking a sip from his tea. Despite all his posturing, he had to admit it was quite delicious and he had high standards when it came to his hot drinks.
Evangeline today had the pleasure of entertaining the young Topaz Heart whilst his uncle, the Sunyshore City gym leader, spoke to her father about any mishaps that may occurred since the Kalos Pokemon liberation, Vol d'Automne. Autumn's Flight.
She was tasked with keeping him company seeing as they are around the same age, but she was not so blind to not see that he was analyzing her movements and interactions.
"Tell me Topaz, do you always dress like that?"
"Dress like what?" Topaz looked down at his outfit. He was wearing Volkner's exact outfit, just for his size. Topaz had thought that being a protege meant dressing like his teacher. He was misinformed.
"Nevermind," Evangeline dropped the topic to sip her tea and observe.
Marjorie and Donut sat at the table as well, but Donut's manners were more than lacking. For one, he was sitting on it. Two, he was feasting on the cookies. She had to admit he was better behaved than Lou who had tried to start a fight out of boredom.
"So Eva, are you related to royalty or something? A descendant maybe? How'd your family acquire all this land and wealth?" Topaz asked. It seemed like an innocent question, but it felt investigative.
"Hard work, good investments and goodwill granted us the opportunity to protect this sanctuary if that's what you're asking," Evangeline stated carefully.
Topaz hummed. "From what I've researched that's only mostly true. One of your forebears is believed to be the bastard of a princess so it could be slight nepotism. Seriously, I've heard Shaymins blessed this land decades ago and now your family cares for it. They say the Gracidea flower responds to gracious folk and wilts around the selfish and considering how vibrant this place is, your family seems alright."
Evangeline rolled her eyes. "Is this an interrogation of my family's character? I'm sure you've heard many stereotypes about the people of Highshire, but I am far from one of them."
Topaz looked Evangeline up and down, adorned in her high end attire with her frills, formal way of speaking and expensive foreign tea leaves. "The lies we tell ourselves…"
"Excuse me?"
"Sorry, I've had bad experiences with Highshire folk. I think the guy was arrested though, so I guess he got what he deserved… more importantly, have you ever heard of some sort of secret society or syndicate in this town?" Topaz asked, completely moving past his last statement.
Evangeline began to pay closer attention. "If such a society existed my family would be a part of it. Would it not?"
Topaz clicked his teeth and leaned back, folding his legs. "Unfortunately in this case, your family appears a bit too sweet for their taste. Luckily, the League has a sugar tooth."
Evangeline grew amused. "Thank you for the League approval, Topaz. We could not survive without your good name blessing us."
"Fresh. Now if only we got you talking like you were born in this century I think you could be pretty fun, Eva," Topaz noted.
"Eva!?" Eva exclaimed.
He changed my dialogue nametag as well!?
Marjorie tilted her head saying the name in Pokespeak. She seemed amused.
"My name is Evangeline!"
Topaz chuckled. "A pleasure to meet you, Eva. Call me Zio."
"I should be calling you brute!"
Topaz laughed again causing even Donut to chuckle a bit mid cookie chew. After a couple more giggles from the both of them, Topaz grew serious once again.
"Say. Have you met any of the Kalos Pokemon? Are they alright?"
His question seemed genuine and of great concern. Eva took his words to heart and answered in earnest.
"If you must know, brute, the day Benedetto was arrested Marjorie and I found an injured Fennekin fleeing the scene. She wanted nothing to do with Marjorie and even less with me, so I asked Marjorie to inform her where she'd be better off before winter came. A few have taken residence here and have slowly begun to warm up to us, but it's mainly the rangers they trust."
"I see…" Topaz whispered to himself. "That's good. Thanks."
Eva feigned shock. "You're rather concerned. Are you actually a bleeding heart? How surprising coming from a brute such as yourself."
"Ya know what, you asked for this. Donut, let's show them what's up! You wanna battle Marjorie?" Topaz got up from his seat, ready to throw hands. "Or is your princess of a trainer too above it all to fight it out?"
Marjorie quickly finished her tea and put up her dukes. Eva could barely contain her laughter before it exploded.
"Ohohoho! Did you think because I have wealth that I cannot handle myself? Come along Marjorie, let us show them our violent etiquette. Gym trainer or not, our prowess is not to be underestimated. Though if Donut does well enough I may have to consider him a worthy rival. Not you though, you're a brute."
Topaz could barely contain his smirk at all the shit talk they were throwing at each other. They made their way to a training field where several younger Pokemon had gathered to watch.
"Brick Break!"
"Deflect with Payback!"
Donut leaped into the air tail glowing orange before slamming it down on Marjorie's thin arms. She endured the painful attack before coating her leafy hair in dark energy and smacking Donut back, hard.
Not deterred yet, Donut launched a swift Thunderbolt right at her, but Marjorie had already sent a wave of Razor Leaves to minimize the damage.
"Ya know I really expected ya to scream in that prissy way you did before at the first sign of conflict," Topaz marvelled. "I'm legitimately shocked that you've got something resembling backbone over there."
"And you're still a brute who doesn't know his place. Very well. Marjorie, let's pummel some manners into these two!"
"Give me 15 seconds and I'll be reading you like a book. Donut, throw down Sunyshore style!"
The two trainers continued their screaming match through the day, long after the meeting had finished, but neither will admit how much fun they had. Afterwards, they agreed to battle once again someday as rivals. Topaz Heart and Eva Morebucks are drastically different trainers who have bonded over their immense desire to beat each other up. It is quite a bit more aggressive than Topaz's other relationships, but I am not one to judge. I only narrate.
~Chapter 22 Fin~
Question: Do you believe magic exists in the Pokemon world canonically? Does it exist in your canon?
Trainer: Topaz Heart
Age: 12
Class: Junior Gym Trainer
Gear: Pokedex, Poketch, Pokemon Medicine, Cellphone, Several Berries, Baton.
Deck: Fool, Devil, Strength, Hermit, Fortune.
Team: Donut (Pikachu), Lou (Charjabug).
x
Donut (Pikachu/M)
Equip: Eviolite.
Moves: Thunderbolt, Thunder,Iron Tail, Brick Break, Quick Attack, Rollout, Tickle, Charge, Thunder Wave, Flash.
Ability: Static Chance to paralyze opponent upon physical contact.
Likes: Pastries, sweets, naps, relaxing, quiet, Topaz's bag.
Dislikes: Bitter food, stress, stupid decisions, feeling alone.
Tactics: Maneuver (Creates a thunder wave barrier to sense attacks+Tickle), Enhanced Tickle (Enhances his tickles with electricity to hit the nerves of sturdier opponents), Spin Dash (Rollout+Iron Tail), Battery Bolt (Combo: Lou's Battery + Donut's Thunderbolt), Thundercloud (Creates thunderclouds to summon lightning independently).
x
Lou (Charjabug/M)
Moves: X-scissor, Wild Charge, Acrobatics, Mud Shot, Iron Defense, Screech, Dig, String Shot, Spiderweb, Thunderbolt.
Ability: Battery Boosts allies' special attack moves.
Likes: Bugs, war, battling, General Topaz, usurping oppressors.
Dislikes: Birds, criminals, condescension, threats to his unit.
Tactics: Mud Pit (Digs a hole underneath the opponent and traps them in a pit of mud), Mud Spin (Digs into the ground and begins throwing mud all over around himself), Grapple Bug (Uses string shot to reel in himself or the opponent), Web Sling (String Shot+Acrobatics), Battery Bolt (Working alongside fellow electrics to launch the ultimate electric move).
Allies
Trainer: Jade Forrest
Age: 12
Team: Flax (Roselia), Shizu (Houndour).
X
Trainer: Violet Hue
Age: 11
Team: Amethyst (Meowstic/F), Zenara (Mareep).
X
Trainer: Jubilee N. Joylife
Age: 12
Team: Hecate (Misdreavus), Merlin (Mudbray).
X
Trainer: Evangeline 'Eva' Morebucks
Age: 11
Team: Marjorie (Steenee)