Friendly Reminder: If you're interested in reading the other side of this story, please check out Hybrid: Aurora Edition!

{}=Pokemon Speaking; []=Telepathic Speaking

The liberated Kalos pokemon re-enter the fray. Many months have passed since everyone's last encounter, but it is time we touch upon a select few and their fates. I in particular have a cautious fox I'd like to note.

~x1x~

PoV: Liberated Fennekin

Location: Sunset Kiln, Crimson Mirelands

Time: Late February - Second Day of the Blizzard - Dawn

I yawned, blinking away the bleariness in my eyes to give a questioning glance at my den's entrance.

The sun still isn't up yet? I can see a few rays reflecting in, but still…

After a long stretch, I sat to consider that. I suppose this region's winter is quite different from what Maman told me Kalos' would be like…

It had been a few months now, since myself and several others were rescued from the clutches of the humans. I can't say I expected the humans who helped to actually let us go. Much less the one I met with the dwarf Florges beside her. Steenee, she called her species as I came to learn in time.

Those three Sinnohan humans let me go, but I'm not risking my neck to see what the fourth will do. Or if any of those three change their minds in future encounters which, Shroud willing, won't happen.

To be frank, quite a lot about this region continued to confound me.

I had expected to see other Pokemon I'd never heard of when I fled. I had expected… something to be different with the climate and landscape compared to my home. I'd certainly expected the land to be smaller, and more densely crowded with humans. What I hadn't expected was for winters to be quite this cold, or for the land to be quite this large. Not to mention the relative sparsity of humans. Whether Pokemon held them at bay or their fear of us, I didn't know. But I wasn't about to question it in regards to helping me.

The less space they occupy, the better.

The Stenee and her human, Marjorie and Evangeline apparently, had come by a few times. Elder Aodhan informed me they ask of me each time they visit. Apparently with another not-human and Pokemon to accompany them when they did. I wouldn't know, I made a point to make myself scarce when they visited. I was given mercy for my failure to stay hidden once, I wouldn't make that mistake again.

Twice, I suppose…

I shook myself out of that thought and dug up an oran berry to eat. At least those seemed to exist across oceans. Along with Pokeballs, the wretched things. Mother always warned me that humans were keen on capturing our kind specifically. And I'd had that proven quite true several months ago.

What I did not know was that they'd use other pokemon to do it, horrid nets, painful traps, suffocating cages. The conditions we were left in still haunted my memories, despite my best efforts. The further away from any semblance of humans I could manage, the better-

Sudden rustling drew my focus, whirling towards the entrance to my den.

Really? Humans NOW? No, the snow doesn't crunch loudly enough. And there's far more than two feet. I'd prefer to avoid a fight, but if needs must…

Carefully, I slunk to the entrance. Outside my den stood some vaguely familiar faces; Chespin and Froakie, I remembered best. We'd often been shoved into the same cages, but never long enough to get to know each other. We were too busy recovering. What I remembered best was how the humans prided themselves over ensnaring us endlessly. How we were a complete set.

A Helopotile stood shivering next to them, but trying to shield the Goomy below her from the snow. A Honedge hovered beside the group, his… eye? Eyes? Mother never got the chance to tell me. He was looking at me, if nothing else.

I gave them all a curious look, saying nothing. The Kiln isn't a place for those without fire, and we haven't got a secret lava flow or something. What're they here for?

{Fennekin?} Chespin muttered in disbelief, his face turning to relief. {You're really here!}

{I am…} I raised a brow cautiously. {Why are you?}

{We were looking for shelter from the blizzard,} Helioptile stuttered, the cold disrupting her speech. {Our den was discovered by some Sneasel, so we had to ditch it before they caught us.}

I glanced over at Honedge, noting the scratches across his scabbard. Chespin and Froakie appeared to have been injured as well, but coping with it. The cold helped in that regard.

{Either you weren't fast enough then, or weren't quick enough getting here.} I paused for a moment. {I take it they gave up when you kept heading into the Kiln?}

{They did, as we hoped. We heard from a Tropius that fire aspects dominate this area and thought they might offer us some sanctuary from the blizzard, and everyone that hunts during it,} Honedge elaborated.

Another glance at Goomy made me grimace before I turned around, waving my tail. {Come on, then. At least get out of the cold.}

They all rushed inside, wishing me their thanks. The moment they were within they collapsed in a circle, finally allowing themselves a reprieve after all the running they had to do over the night.

{Merci beaucoup! I wasn't sure we were gonna last any longer,} Goomy exclaimed as she huddled closer to Froakie and Helioptile.

{We don't mean to be a bother, we'll leave as soon as the blizzard is finished,} Froakie insisted, but her expression turned sheepish. {If I may ask… Do you have any food to spare? We lost everything we had in our den to the predators and we couldn't afford to stop and forage for any berries.}

I sat down, evaluating my store before shaking my head. {I've enough for myself, but I haven't stockpiled enough for anyone but myself. I don't know how long blizzards last in this land, but I'm loathe to expect it'll end soon.}

That, and this isn't a place for them. Elder Aodhan is clear on that, and I don't want to risk upsetting her. Not to mention the Kiln just isn't built to accommodate those without fire to begin with…

I glanced at my den. It was small, and didn't have any heating stones in it. Or much of anything, beyond a bed of leaves and grass, a pile of twigs, the small mound where I'd buried my berries, and the entrance. There was no way they could stay here without risking all our lives.

And yet…

Chespin glanced between me and Froakie. {Don't worry, I'll find some food soon. Let's just warm up here for a bit, okay?}

Froakie didn't seem entirely convinced, but she nodded regardless. {You're right… we should sleep on it and try again when it's brighter.}

{I'll cover you. Those of frost will stalk the land and will think you easy prey,} Honedge offered, earning a nod from Chespin.

Goomy seemed aghast at the notion. {We can't just let you two do all the work!}

Chespin appeased his slimy friend with a small smile. {How many times do I have to say it; we can handle it. You've got your role and we've got ours.}

I closed my eyes for a moment, rolling them internally.

Lightbringer give me strength…

I then cleared my throat, drawing their attention. My ear flicked in vague irritation. {I need to consider some things. Finding food and suitable lodging for you all among them, as my den and stores won't suffice without endangering us all. There's often space near enough to the Kiln, but only with permission.} I got up. {I'm going to see what I can do.}

I went to leave, but couldn't bring myself to. I closed my eyes again, grimacing to myself. And this is why I got caught…

I walked over to my store and dug up a sitrus berry, batting it with a paw towards them. {I can spare that, at least. Don't dig up anything else or I'll chase you out of here myself.}

{Thank you, thank you,} Helioptile picked up the sitrus berry, looking at it longingly before placing it back down. That gave me pause before Honedge slashed the berry neatly in two. Helioptile picked up both slices and handed them to Froakie and Chespin.

Each of them gave a small thanks to her and then to myself before partaking in their meal. They were funneling resources to who best could utilize them so they'd all survive.

I felt another twinge in my heart, but shook myself before walking out of my den. I can't spare more than that safely. And, if all goes well, I won't need to worry about them by nightfall.

Quickly darting across the snow, I grabbed several sticks in my mouth and brought them back to the entrance. The one thing I envied of humans was their hands. And those I would get in time. But until then, I needed to drag a branch with my teeth. Sharpening my claws, I cut it into smaller pieces with some difficulty before dragging the pile inside. A few footprints were left in the snow, and I took care to drag the branches over them.

The group watched as I set the pile of wood to the side of the entrance but within the den, well away from my bed and stores. It was damp from the snow, but after a few seconds of a persistent orange flame, it caught. Steam and smoke rose out of the den together, warmth and embers alike flickering out from the fire.

{Goomy and Chespin should stay closest to this. I'm going to speak with Elder Aodhan to see what can be done.}

Goomy slithered over to the fire eagerly, their slime slowly beginning to melt. {We understand and we won't touch anything. Thank you for the fire.}

{We will respect whatever the Elder decides. We don't want to cause you any trouble,} Chespin added.

I nodded, walking back out of the den. By this point, the sun had begun to rise. Still only just visible over the mountains and treeline, but better than questioning if it was there at all. Elder Aodhan's cave was at the center of the Kiln, while I'd dug my den further away.

Even though it was a bit of a walk, the snow proved to be little more than an annoyance. My inner flame caused it to melt beneath my paws, wetting them if I stayed in one spot for more than a moment. Fortunately, snow never lasted long in Sunset Kiln. It was a rocky crater filled with several caves where the others resided. We all heated the rocks to keep the area suitably warm for us all and do so with little fear of setting any plant life ablaze. What few scarlet ferns and grasses grew between the blackened rocks weren't bothered by the fires we set.

If luck is with me, no one will be up this early.

{Flare,} A familiar voice called my name.

Merde.

I looked over to see Mainu, walking over from his shared den with his littermate, Korr. Apparently he was a Growlithe, much fluffier than his sister and with an affinity for rock, another sight I'd never seen in Kalos. I… wasn't entirely sure what to call our relationship with one another. At the very least, we knew one another and were amicable.

I stopped on a stone, giving him my attention. {Hm?}

He bounded over to me with a few jumps, landing with his body sinking into the snow though he paid it no mind. He leaned in closely to whisper. {The outsiders. Are they a problem?}

I sighed. {For my peace of mind? Yes. They're of the ones I escaped with, and were driven out of their den by some Sneasel. None of them are of fire, and they have no food or shelter. It's… problematic.}

{I see…} He mumbled. {Do you trust them?}

{Only two are more than strangers, and those two I know little about. Would you mind watching my den? I'm going to speak to Elder Aodhan. They can't stay here, but…} I trailed off.

{You want to know if they can remain close by,} He presumed.

More akin to wanting to ensure they won't die after what we all endured, but sure.

{Something like that.}

He glanced around us, noting the isolation. {It was fortunate this happened so early. Hurry back soon before others awaken and begin to gossip. Mainu and I will keep an eye out.}

{Thank you.} I set off again, pondering his words.

Gossip isn't high on my list of concerns. Especially when I can just sit in my den and wait for them to bore themselves over it.

Soon, I arrived at the Elder's cave. No more snow covered the ground here, instead being coated with a fine layer of soot and ash. Lumps of black coal lined the cave, a few piled at the entrance along with the ever-present scent of smoke suffusing the land. A lazy trail of steam rose from the cave, the hot spring within ever warming the cave and lands around it. There were several of its kind burbling near the outside of the cave as well, where the others typically gathered.

I stood before the maw of the cave. {Elder Aodhan? May I enter?}

I waited a few seconds before a white smog drifted from the maw of the cave. I was permitted.

Striding into the cave, more coal was piled up deeper in. Finally, I arrived in the center; a wide open cave lit by burning piles of coal, the smoke wafting through a hole in the ceiling of the cave. Still far from comfortable for those not of fire, as was intended.

The cave was predominantly filled with a large, steaming hot spring of the Elder's own design. In the far end of the hot spring, Elder Aodhan waded through the water as she walked onto a smooth rock where she stood regally. Her throne? No, much too arrogant, too human. It was her conference stone.

She dwarfed me in size yet I held no fear of her, only respect. She was a reasonable pokemon and I had seen firsthand why all those of fire sought sanctuary here and obeyed her, even if they disagreed with her creeds. Such as the strict policy against non-fires inhabiting the Kiln.

{Flare,} She said the name she had given me soothingly. {Has the blizzard caused you unexpected trouble?}

{Of a sort,} I began. {I'm well enough, but some of those who escaped the humans with me have found their way here. None of them are of fire, and I've not the space or stores for them. And yet…} I paused, finding the words. {I cannot bring myself to turn them away outright. They shelter in my den for now, but I came to ask if it was alright for them to shelter in a den near outside the Kiln.}

She was silent, commiserating. {I had suspected this may happen soon. Your fellow survivors would seek out others who have found comfort in Sinnoh, especially during such arduous weather. Tell me, how many are there, what are their aspects, general size and most importantly… do you trust them?}

{Five of them; one of water, growth, lightning, drakes, and one of iron and specter. All of them are as small as myself now, but they grow notably after evolution. Trusting them…} I thought for a long moment, grappling with what I knew of them and what I'd learned of betrayal.

{I have no more reason to distrust them than I would anyone who calls the Kiln home,} I eventually responded. {They have given me no reason to doubt them, if nothing else.}

Elder Aodhan sighed, smoke spewing from her nostrils. {Coming from you Flare, that speaks volumes. Even after the many moons you've spent here, I've found you wary of the residents of the Kiln. It also seems like these five are around your age as well, so you might relate to them in that aspect as well, but…} She ceased the smoke.

{While you may be wary of the Kiln residents you know their patterns at least. You've acquired daily expectations and can assume what they will and will not do, particularly to you or anyone else in this community. Now what have these five done in the time you've all spent apart? What enemies they've made or their intentions? The wilderness is cruel especially during frost, I won't admonish what must be done to survive it or rogue humans, but we've forged a place where we do not have to go to such extremes. Which is why I must ask you again, can you trust them enough? If so, then I will assist them.}

I sat down, considering her words again. I asked Mainu to watch them. I told myself it was to make certain they didn't cause trouble for myself or others, but if one of them collapsed from cold he could warm them up while I wasn't there. They said they'd respect Elder Aodhan, and I had yet to hear any commotion from my den. The Kiln's proximity would keep them safer during winter, a harsher unknown than the rest of the land. And… I did not want to leave them to die in frost.

Abandoning those you rely upon and who rely on you in turn, disregarding others for only your gain, taking what can't be given… those are human actions. We're not them. We're better than such things. I'm better than such things.

I looked at Elder Aodhan once more. {I trust them enough to not disrupt the peace of the Kiln, nor invite more trouble than my presence already would.}

Elder released white smog this time, seemingly pleased with my resolve. {You answer me with conviction, so I'll return it with kindness.}

Elder picked up a rock with her mouth from the pile of rocks that laid beside her. She took a deep breath, unleashing a scathing hot flamethrower upon it, tinging the stone red as it bent under the flame. She stamped her foot into it before quickly cooling it with cold smoke. Once finished, she took the branded stone in her mouth and flung it before me.

{When the snowfall clears, accompany Korr with the others to find a suitable den for them outside our territory. Give that sigil to them so they may be recognized as allies of the Sunset Kiln and that you vouch for them. Ensure they know you're placing your own well-being on the line and that there are expectations for this position,} Elder warned me, although her expression softened. {As good grace, I'll have someone send spare food to tide them over until the blizzard is over.}

I felt my heart lighten, nodding and placing a paw on the stone. {Thank you, Elder. Rest assured, if they break this trust, I will drive them away myself.}

She nodded slowly. {I hope it does not come to that.}

Neither do I. But if it does, I will be prepared this time.

I bowed my head to her before picking up the stone in my mouth, turning to stride outside the cave and back to my den once more.

Elder Aodhan released more smoke, causing me to pause. {Elyna,} she said. The name given to me by my Maman. A name I vowed myself to only give to those I trusted, for the pain it was now tied to. Even now Maman's face flashed before my eyes.

{As they are not of fire, they may not roam freely within the Kiln… but, if you choose to mingle with them outside of the Kiln, no judgment will be cast. Keep that in mind.}

I nodded to her once more. Speaking was difficult with a stone sigil in your mouth, even moreso when there was nothing to be said.

So with that, I walked out of the cave, headed back towards my den. The smoke still rose from my den, though thinner than before. Clearly, though, it rose well enough to draw attention, hushed whispers from other dens.

{Why is she out of her den in this weather?}

{She just left Elder Aodhan's den with something in her mouth. Can you see what it is?}

{There's smoke close to her den. Did she set a flame for non-fires?}

I rolled my eyes and kept walking. Valid questions or not, it would be nice if they kept them to themselves.

Soon, I was away from the bulk of the residents and back at my den. Mainu and Korr recognized the sigil as soon as I walked in, nodding to me as I set it down by the entrance and looked to the group.

{Elder Aodhan has given you permission to live in a den near outside the Kiln, which she requested Korr and myself to find once the sky clears. This trust is given so long as you do not enter the Kiln, nor disturb its peace and aid us as allies. It was given on my word, and I will take responsibility if you break it,} I noted with a pointed look, waiting for that to sink in before continuing. {She also said that some of the community will bring spare food, enough for you to get through the blizzard.}

I pawed the sigil. {This must be outside your den when you claim it, or else you will be driven away as would anyone without it. Is this clear?}

They all looked amongst each other. There was a mix of surprise, anxiety, joy and more, but it all resulted in relief. Froakie was the first to move, picking up the sigil and looking at it carefully. {This means so much to us, I don't even have the words to express it. We won't do anything to bring discord to you or Sunset Kiln. You have our word… as fellow Kalosians.}

{My word may not mean much, but I'll honor it, as a fellow Kalosian,} Goomy followed.

{As a fellow Kalosian,} Chespin joined as well. {And a fellow survivor.}

{We will do right by you and the Sunset Kiln, no matter what,} Helioptile promised.

{We're sorry for putting you in this position, but we are eternally grateful,} Honedge continued.

I just nodded in response, looking to Mainu and Korr. {You needn't trouble yourselves with me any longer, if you've anything else to do.}

Korr, a Growlithe with messy hair, shook her head immediately. {It's no trouble to help fellow pack members. All three of us are a part of Sunset Kiln and support one another.}

Mainu barked in agreement. {We wish for you to lean on us more and us in turn so each of our burdens are lightened. We want to feel the same for every member in this community, it's why we came here.}

I nodded to them as well, before going to my bedding and sitting there. I wasn't quite sure what to do with this many around, and I'd had my fill of excitement for the week.

Though, despite the abundant breaths and heartbeats, I'll be able to sleep with a sound mind and calm heart tonight.

~x2x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Home - Sunyshore City

Time: Late February - Second Day of the Blizzard - Morning

Morning went by smoothly, neither Volkner nor Jade made much of a fuss after I gave them the full story. Jade definitely had his own thoughts on the matter, but he didn't make them known. For now he remained uninvolved and was drawing in the living room.

I awaited Amethyst and the others' return from the Pokemon Center. The snow had slowed to a thin patter, nowhere near as disruptive as it was yesterday. Although it was still bittercold and the roads were covered in snow. My team circled around me as I sat on the couch by the window, watching the snowfall waiting for them to arrive.

My patience was rewarded when I spotted the familiar distortion of psychic manipulation from the front yard. I put on my boots and ran to the front with my team behind me to see Amethyst, Zenara and Violet who were carrying the kittens in a fleece blanket. By their side was Clementine and Saffron, carrying a bag of supplies we needed as promised.

"How was the night?" I asked.

{Boring, thankfully,} Amethyst replied. {They mostly slept and needed affirmation that everything was still okay. That we hadn't just left or something.}

I sighed in relief, pleased with that information as Clementine stepped forward. "Good morning. Can you all show me where the hollow is?"

Violet nodded, walking towards the backyard with Amethyst on her shoulder and Zenara trotting right beside her. She was quieter than I was used to her being, but it made sense. This wasn't a problem she could just fight, and she was figuring out how to help anyway.

It only took a minute to reach the tree where the hollow still lay. Along with the two large mounds of dirt and snow, though it may as well have been two huge snowdrifts at this point.

{I made it large enough so that we could stay in there with them, but small enough that they'd still feel safe,} Amethyst explained.

"The exterior looks secure. The tree itself is larger than I had expected, but quite stable. Now for the interior, Saffron?" She turned to her partner, who scampered inside. After around a minute of inspection, Saffron emerged and yipped to Amethyst and Clementine.

{Inspection passed. It's suitable for their recovery,} Lou translated.

Clementine turned to me as she readied her bag. "I'm going to set up the hollow so they can recover a bit more comfortably inside. Give me a few minutes, I'm not quite as small as you kids so it's gonna be a little harder to maneuver."

I smiled at her light attitude as she carefully crawled into the hollow with the bag. To keep us all warm Saffron, Lou and Zenara began to emit some heat, but otherwise we all waited in silence. Thankfully it didn't take long for Clementine to finish as she got up from the hollow, brushing dirt off herself.

"A bit of a tight squeeze, but I'm finished. The kittens should be comfy enough in here as long as everyone keeps an eye out," She noted before turning to me. "I gave Violet a treatment regime to follow that she can share with you that I suggest you familiarize yourself with. Nothing too complex."

Before I could say anything I checked my phone to see Violet had already sent it. "Will read."

"Excellent," Clementine smiled as she turned to all of us. "That's everything I can do for now. If you need me, I'll be working at your local center. I wish you all the best."

Saffron yipped in turn, likely giving her own goodbyes to the pokemon among us.

{We appreciate all of your help, thanks,} Donut returned.

"Thank you for all of your aid, we will utilize it to the fullest," Violet added.

"We'll let you know when they're feeling better. Thanks again for everything," I added. Clementine gave us one last smile as she began to leave the property with Saffron.

I turned my attention to the treatment plan for the kits, whilst Violet took to settling them into the hollow. As Clementine stated it wasn't complex; relatively textbook coupled with some Espurr nuances. The most important notes were related to not stressing them out and to go slowly with introducing them to new things due to their shaky trust.

So keep doing what we've been doing. Can do.

{You all look haggard,} Lou blurted out, addressing Zenara, Amethyst and then Violet once she left the hollow. I had noticed before, but while they were quiet, they all did look a bit sleep deprived. {Did any of you even sleep?}

Amethyst couldn't help but chuckle as she shook her head, while Violet sighed. "I am used to sleepless nights. Amethyst is the one who best knows Espurr, and was determined to stay awake in case she was needed. Zenara was determined to not leave us alone."

{If you're gonna stay up cuz it's important, then I'm stayin' up with you,} she bleated tiredly.

Lou frowned. {You know that's not protocol, Zenara. We recuperate in shifts so that we're never caught completely vulnerable.}

She looked up at him. {Yeah, and you, Topaz and Donut left to sleep on our shift. Cuz it was your turn to sleep. That's how it works, right?}

He looked incredulous. {No! We were in completely different buildings!}

{Military protocol aside,} Donut cut in. {You three should prolly take a nap. What do moms say? Sleep when the pups sleep? Looks like the kits are still sleeping to me.}

Amethyst chuckled again. {Moms are also woken up abruptly when the kids wake up, unless they've got people to take over for 'em. So yeah, we're gonna go nap. Good luck, and if they start blowing stuff up, wake us up okay?}

{Zio and I've got this,} Donut affirmed before turning to Lou and Holyn. {You two can… eat breakfast I guess.}

{But I wanna see the kitties…} Holyn whined. After everything we've been through over the night, he really got invested in what we were doing it seems.

Violet crouched down, gently rubbing his dome. "I know, and I am sorry you have yet to. But they are still scared, hurt and anxious. They were barely ready to see us, much less meet new people. But once they are ready to open their hearts, I know you will meet them with joy and love. So please, wait until they can accept that love."

He gazed thoughtfully at her before nodding. {Alright… I'll be patient.}

I smiled down upon him. "Good boy. In the meantime, Gautier is inside. You can hang out with him while we're on shift."

Amethyst's ear flicked as Violet stood up, looking at me. "Regarding them, it would be best if they kept their distance from the litter."

I was a bit surprised, but Lou caught on quickly. {You believe them too volatile.}

She nodded back. "Even ignoring Shizu's recent evolution to a powerful dark type, and Gautier being particularly effective at disrupting their still developing psychic energy. I do not believe they would attempt to cause problems. That does not mean I think they would not regardless."

I stroked my chin. They wouldn't actively seek out problems to cause, Jade knows better than that, but even now with Rogelio's blessing it was hard to get a read on them. What I did know was that I didn't trust his team as much as I trusted everyone else here. And they trusted his team even less.

It feels bad to think it, but I'm pretty sure Violet and I are the only ones stressed over it. And she's only stressed over it because she stresses over everything that might cause Pokemon problems.

"Say that exactly to him and he'll understand. He won't like it, but he knows what Shizu is like," I explained. "He'll understand our caution."

{Hell, I'm cautious around her. She's starting to give off a similar energy to that Weavile from Rowan's lab,} Donut shivered.

Guess her evolution has made her aura more menacing.

Amethyst sighed unenthused. {We'll let them know. I'm sure Jade'll be the most reluctant.}

Oh he certainly will.

Before they left Violet took a minute to tell one of the more awake kits the change of guard shift, and how everyone was going to be taking turns. Thankfully, they were accepting of the idea and did not protest as long as only the people that helped them were with them.

With the new arrangement explained, Violet and the others left to go eat. Although, I heard some of their conversation on the way in.

{Somehow, I feel like we got the hard job here. Keep the anxious kittens from blowing things up, or talk to Jade?}

Violet snorted while Zenara looked up at the both of them. {What did Loulou mean when he said we weren't in the same building? We're still the same team, that means we take the same shifts, right?}

Same team, huh? I guess when we're all so close it feels that way.

I put that thought away for the moment and entered the hollow with Donut to find it had been spruced up a bit. There was a large blanket covering up the dirt, there were food and water bowls in the corner. The heat rocks I had placed last night were now inside a glass device that seemed to utilize them much more efficiently to heat the interior. Meanwhile the kittens themselves were curled all up around themselves in the blanket Violet had been carrying them in.

Donut and I made ourselves comfortable closer to the heater, watching the kittens sleep.

"You gonna take a nap?" I asked Donut, half jokingly.

He quickly shook his head. {Nope, not this time. I'm keeping my promise even if my nap schedule rebukes it.}

I scratched his chin, pleased with his answer. "So now we wait."

~x3x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Espurr Hollow - Sunyshore City

Time: Late February - Third Day of Snowfall - Night

The first shift of watching the kits passed smoothly as we swapped out with Violet's group and transitioned into the third day of snow. It was persistent, but it was light enough for people to resume their lives. Donut and I on the other hand were back on shift duty for the night, taking over for Violet's group so they could have dinner and take care of chores.

The kittens had spent all of it sleeping while Donut and I sat curled up together on my phone waiting for something to happen. It was surprisingly cozy in here, even with the blizzard outside. A very natural way to tide out the storm.

As I was scrolling, Donut leaned over. {Whatcha lookin' at?}

"Potential ideas for a new project I had in mind," I explained, showcasing him pictures of Lou using web moves as a Charjabug and Vikavolt as well as some preliminary blueprints. "I've been meaning to find time to tinker more after working at the Professor's lab and Lou's webbing inspired me. You know Spidops-Man, right?"

What is a Spidops anyway?

{The superhero?} Donut questioned, ruminating on that for a bit. {You don't mean…?}

"I'm just saying, it could be useful in a pinch," I suggested. "I'm still a kid after all. Pokemon will always be tough, but even with training adults can overpower me. I need better gear than just my baton. So I've been analyzing Lou's webbing components and how I could adapt something similar with technology. I meant to do more last night, but gem making was a fun distraction."

{So what's the plan on the new gear?} Donut asked as he got more comfortable.

As I was about to explain I noticed movement from one of the kits. One became two, then three before all of them had begun to mewl as they roused.

"What are they saying?" I whispered to Donut.

{Nothing special, just meowing,} he answered. I'd learned from my pokemon friends that oftentimes the sounds pokemon made were simply just sounds, especially for younger mons. {One of them did say something about food, so we should feed them.}

One of them turned their attention to us with the stoic expression Espurr was known for. They weren't alarmed thankfully due to Violet's earlier explanation, they just needed assurance we were doing our jobs.

I got up to find their food in the supply bag Clementine had prepared for them. It was a simple tuna paste, universally liked by all feline pokemon and easy to eat. Alongside it medicine that I discreetly mixed into the food as Clementine's instructions. As I did that, Donut refilled their water bowl.

Even after years of living with a Luxray, the scent of tuna makes me ill.

"All finished, time to eat guys," I whispered, ignoring the smell.

They meowed at us before slowly walking over to their food and water bowl.

Donut and I stayed back as the second and third followed suit, waiting patiently for the fourth. When they did not follow their siblings, Donut and I leaned in closer to see what was wrong. The injured kit had awoken, but was struggling to actually stand. The soreness from their wound made every movement a trial.

Their siblings, noticing the absence of the fourth, returned to their injured sibling mewling in distress. Two of them hopped over to them and tried to carry them over, but the injured kit hissed in pain.

"Ah ah ah, wait." I raised a hand to stop, scooting over to the kittens. They all immediately shirked back except for the injured one who was quickly growing exhausted by the pain. "They're in too much pain to be pulled around, but I can carry them. Lemme help."

The boldest kitten seemed apprehensive as though I'd run off with their injured sibling.

{Remember, we're here to take care of you, alright?} Donut reminded them. {Lux is really gentle, don't worry.}

The bold kit still seemed a bit uneasy, less so because I'd take their siblings, but now more so because they weren't sure I could move the injured kit any better than they could.

"I'll be careful, watch," I suggested, as I leaned over to the injured kit. "You ready?"

They looked up at me with the most vivid blue eyes, blinking. Each sibling had different colored eyes, each one having a vastness to them I hadn't seen before. It was vaguely reminiscent of Amethyst's, yet her eyes were more… mature. Likely due to her bevy of experiences.

With the steadiness of the finest engineer, I leaned over and scooped the injured kitten into my left hand. All that went through my head was to not make any mistakes. Keep in mind everything all the electricians taught me at Sunyshore Gym when handling delicate equipment. I had to be precise or I could hurt myself and others.

I cautiously made myself comfortable near their food, repositioning Espurr as I would hold a human baby. This part at least I knew what to do. I'd taken care of baby Shinx at the gym for as long as I could remember in similar ways. The motion was smooth and painless, the only discomfort they exhibited was a deep sigh as their siblings watched.

Going well so far, no one's panicked yet.

I knew what I was doing yet even now this was new to me. I'd always had an adult immediately around to help me if things got too tough. This time, I had to handle it myself.

No, that's not right. Donut is here with me.

Donut handed me a small spoon so I could scoop a small spoonful of tuna paste, holding it towards Espurr's mouth. "It's dinnertime, can you nibble on this?"

The injured kitten sniffed the food before giving it a few cautious licks. Their body didn't seem to rebel at the notion so they began to properly nibble on their food as they snuggled more into my arms.

"Cozy, huh?" I mused, as Espurr continued to eat, ignoring my comment.

A sudden tension was released from the air as I turned to all three kittens staring at me. Their expressions hadn't changed, but I could tell they were pleased as I continued feeding their injured littermate spoon by spoon.

{Come on, everyone,} Donut urged the kits. {You three need to eat too.}

The kittens simultaneously turned to him before walking back to their own food bowl to finish their meal. I sat right beside them watching how much more lax they seemed to be than they had before. Our presence didn't cause them alarm. We guarded, fed and held them when needed. We clearly weren't their mother, but the comfort was there.

Donut and I exchanged a victory smile as he sat beside me. As they ate I decided to hum a song all too familiar to me: Sunyshore's musical theme. The melody held a great deal of nostalgia for me, a signature tune that always reminded me of my best memories of Sunyshore City. The kittens' ears perked up slightly at the melody, but it did not deter their eating. A spark of excitement was ignited within me.

I hope this melody ends up being a nostalgic tune for them too one day.

After a bit of solo humming, Donut joined in creating a nice harmony between us. The only noise was the wind outside, the buzz from the heat rocks, their tongues lapping up tuna and our sweet hymns to pass the time.

~x4x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Home - Sunyshore City

Time: Late February - Early March

Life began to follow a new rhythm as we all took turns in ensuring the comfort of the kittens. The blizzard passed and the world was covered in snow, but spring was approaching and soon the region would blossom anew for plants and people.

Volkner and his team were awesome through all of this. They had grown accustomed to the shift system and accommodated it. Rogelio continued going on his long walks. As long as he didn't get caught by anyone evil I didn't mind.

Holyn waited patiently to see the kittens, whilst Lou remained distant to not frighten them. During my shifts I spent my downtime formulating proper schematics for future trainer tools I'd like to create. The quiet time has allowed me to be quite productive.

The kittens typically slept, woke up to eat, drink and comfort each other, before going right back to sleep. We'd tend to them if needed and talked a little, but otherwise not much was said. Clementine's notes said they were beyond stressed, so this was likely them finally having the chance to crash and sleep like most cats.

At the very least they were gradually getting more comfortable with all of us. They'd meow a greeting towards me and stopped flinching when I placed a finger near them. When we switched shifts they'd say hello and goodbye to us. Sometimes they'd even ask the pokemon a couple questions and allow us humans to sit close to them. I was growing fond of these little kittens, honestly.

The injured kit was recovering splendidly thanks to Clementine's treatment and our diligence. We checked on them frequently, ensuring nothing was too numb or fresh so that when they returned to the wild they were fit for survival. Each day their pain became less prominent and their sleep more sound, especially when surrounded by all their siblings and powerful friends.

As of now it'd been a week since we had started safeguarding them. I was on watch duty again, this time with Zenara. The kittens were awake, eating and drinking as usual, not saying much at all. Three of them returned to their bed after they finished their meal, but the fourth, the injured kit, turned their attention to the exit of the hollow, staring at it intensely.

I leaned forward from my seat. "Something wrong?"

They looked at me, thinking for a second before turning to the rest and asking them something. They all looked over immediately, concerned before they all started talking amongst themselves. Zenara's eyes kept darting from one to the next before they widened and she looked at me.

{Right, sorry! They're thinking of going outside, but they don't wanna go unless it's all together. And everyone's worried about if it's too soon.}

I looked down at them all. They all looked much healthier than the week prior, even the injured one was walking well. The current climate wasn't too bad either and they all hadn't been outside in so long.

The time has come.

I smiled down on them. "I'll call Nyx and tell her to bring everyone over, alright?"

They looked among each other again, before the injured one nodded.

With a quick phone call, everyone made their way outside. I exited the hollow alongside Zenara to spy Lou and Holyn watching from inside. Smiling at them I turned back to the hollow, awaiting the kits to re-enter the world.

Cenza hopped onto Zenara's back, joy written on her face. {Today's the day! Oooh, I'm so excited, I need to calm down. Let them take their time.}

Donut perched himself on my shoulder and I noted his tail was wagging, an extremely rare occurrence. {Huh, look at me, even I'm hype.}

"Hard not to be after all the time we've spent with them," I admitted, my heart pounding in anticipation.

Violet was staring intently at the entrance, hugging Amethyst tightly. Amethyst, meanwhile, was breathing a bit more shakily than usual. Not hyperventilating, but clearly emotional.

I wonder if this is how parents feel toward their kids.

After a long moment, one of them poked their head out of the entrance. They looked back, and one by one, each of them looked out. Until finally, the same one who'd been most protective of their siblings stepped out towards us. And, like always, the others were right behind.

Violet let go of Amethyst, who immediately flew over to hug each of them. A bright smile was on her face as she welcomed each of them to the world properly.

Violet, meanwhile, came close and whispered. "It is not unlikely that this is their first truly voluntary foray into the world."

I looked at them in awe as Cenza jumped off of Zenara to hug another one of them. That's true. They were likely too young to leave their mother by choice in Kalos. All the time they've spent in Sinnoh has just been a constant struggle. Now here they got to choose.

{They're… okay…} Donut exhaled deeply, controlling the amount of relief he was willing to show lest he break. I scratched his head to ease his nerves. He'd held strong to his promise all week and now it felt like a load had been lifted.

Zenara hopped over, only barely containing her excitement as she crouched to look at them all. {Just let me know when you wanna play, okay?}

One of them smiled at that, while another looked around in awe. Truly getting to appreciate the world around them. A third looked over, saw Lou and Holyn, and pointed at them curiously.

"Oh, you wanna see them?" I questioned.

They nodded so I turned to them to wave them over. Lou seemed hesitant, but Holyn had no qualms with opening the backdoor and joining the fray. Lou trailed behind, keeping a relative distance as Holyn walked right up to the kittens. His eyes were filled with wonder towards them, but he held back as he knelt down to be more on their level.

{Hi kittens,} Holyn greeted softly as I had requested of him. {I'm Holyn, can we be friends?}

They looked amongst each other before one of them looked back at him and meowed something.

{I'm the nicest!} He declared. {Well… I hope so.}

{He is,} Amethyst affirmed. {He's got a heart of gold.}

And with that, and another meow, the four of them began sniffing him, climbing on top of him, one of them gnawed a little on one of his dome's spikes before they decided they didn't want to keep doing that. The injured one was less for climbing, and instead more for sidling up to his legs and nuzzling him.

Holyn was overjoyed as he flopped to the ground and began playing with all the kittens. He swooned over their fluffy bodies, while ensuring he did not hurt any of them. Cenza joined in with welcome arms as they celebrated their new friendship.

{They've grown well,} Lou muttered to himself, his usual scowl remaining, yet a tad softer for once.

One of the kittens looked up at him, tilting their head and staring at him for a long moment. Then meowing something at him.

{Spewpa?} Lou questioned, considering his response. {If they're a similar bug type, then yes I indeed was a 'small' Charjabug, but now I'm a 'big' Vikavolt…}

They looked confused, which is when Violet pulled out her tablet. They'd grown accustomed to it, so they weren't scared when she began tapping on it. She pulled up the evolutionary line of Scatterbug, Spewpa and Vivillon, showing it to Lou. "They are native to Kalos."

He studied them closely. {They resemble Beautifly, but I understand the comparison.}

She then showed the same picture to the Espurr, who'd begun to gather around curiously. After they nodded, recognizing them, she brought up a picture of the line of Grubbin, Charjabug and Vikavolt right below the prior line.

Their eyes lit up with recognition seeing the Charjabug picture, and after comparing the two and then looking back at Lou? The protective one asked something, eyes wide.

{Made the flood? Ah, you mean when I drilled into the underground lake to flood the cravens' base and all their devices?} Lou recalled proudly. {That was the least I could do. When in war you must seize every chance you can get to save your allies and destroy your enemies, including utilizing the surrounding environment. I only did what I would expect from any of my peers.}

Another one looked at the other three and immediately said something.

{Oh? They knew who he was as soon as he started talking,} Cenza noted.

{His vernacular is so memorable no matter what he turns into, anyone will know it's Lou,} Donut snidely chuckled.

{I can pick out Lou from any crowd. His voice is really memorable,} Holyn added.

Amethyst chuckled. {I've met pokemon from all walks of life and I still haven't heard of anyone like Lou before. Looks like he left his mark.}

One of the kittens nodded, before looking up at Lou and meowing.

Lou huffed. {Have I gotten stronger? Is my power not evident?}

"Whatever power he showcased back then pales in comparison to what he can do now," I added, proud of him.

They asked something again. Lou huffed again, holding back the urge to flex his strength.

{No matter where I am, you may call upon me and I will answer. In my youth I anchored myself to a behemoth metal bird that brought me to Sinnoh. Even the brutal winds, abhorrent noise and disgusting fumes could not deter me from losing sight of my enemy. And now thanks to all that effort, I can now simply fly past it and shoot it down.} His mandibles crackled as if to prove a point.

{He knows damn well by this point that wasn't a bi-}

"Shhh," I hushed Donut. "He's empowering them."

{I suppose a 'behemoth metal bird' is similar to the 'giant metal whale' aka a submarine,} Donut sighed.

Eyes brightening, they started talking among themselves before looking up at him excitedly, asking something else. Now Lou had a dangerous glint in his eyes.

{A demonstration? Very well then, I'll show you feats to aspire towards. Bear witness to the fruits of my labor and all my comrades' support!}

With that Lou skyrocketed into the air, faster than we could even register, blowing a crater into the ground. As he flew through the sky he left behind a green trail, the best indicator of where he was for when he was going full speed.

Once he had finished showcasing his speed, his body began to glow a vivid green, crackling from the pressure of his lightning. The clouds around him began to darken as he bent them to his will. Lightning rumbled from the clouds, crashing into his body and further fueling his strength.

Once sufficiently charged he aimed his mandible cannon into the sky, a condensed sphere of electrical energy crackling angrily. Once he had finished, his railgun mandible shot a thick stream of multicolored, arcing light through the clouds, piercing the heavens above for miles until we could no longer see it.

Once Lou had expended the excess energy, he dispelled the thunderclouds with a simple swipe of his claws before diving swiftly to our level. He slowed abruptly, slowly approached the kittens with a pleased scowl.

{Satisfied?} He questioned, smug and proud.

All of them were speechless. They looked around at each other, at him, and at the clouds above still swirling from his attacks. I genuinely couldn't tell what they were thinking, and probably? Neither could they.

I hope the neighbors don't mind that little display.

Amethyst nudged Cenza gently, gesturing with her head to the group. She must've conveyed something telepathically, because she scampered over to them looking pleased.

{He's pretty strong, huh?}

They all collectively meowed in confirmation.

{We all knew he'd get that strong once he evolved, he's Lou, he wouldn't settle for anything less, but he needed more charge to crack his thick skin,} She laughed. It was funny though. Lou was too efficient in storing energy to the point he was just a small, indestructible battery.

{He got this strong thanks to years of hard work, but in order to evolve we all got to pitch in and help. Even me, and I'm even weaker than all of you, so I felt really good once I saw how strong he'd become.}

They all visibly relaxed when she said she helped, and they hugged her before going up to Lou and all talking at once to him. One of them was jumping up, trying to grab one of his legs to climb up on him.

{Children are quite zealous once you're larger than them it seems,} He noted, allowing them to do as they pleased. {Now I know how Froberge feels with the gym's Shinx.}

{Let's be glad Cenza's here to help them be that,} Amethyst sighed. {I know you don't do things in half measures, but jeez. If she wasn't here they'dve run back to the den immediately.}

Lou wasn't convinced considering they were now riding atop his back. {These tykes wouldn't allow a light show to cause them dismay, but if you believe so I can begin organizing a psychological training regime-}

{No, bad Lou, stop drafting kittens,} Donut cut him off.

Amethyst immediately pointed at him. {That. Listen to Donut. Not every kid is Zenara.}

{Come now, Holyn would beg to disagree. He's come far in a short time thanks to my conditioning,} Lou countered.

{I um… I've decided I'm not old enough to be a part of this conversation. It's like my parents are fighting,} Holyn interjected, the kit on his head agreeing.

Amethyst put her paws together, breathing out before looking at Lou while the kittens got onto Holyn and Zenara to play with them and Cenza. {Lou. There is a difference. Holyn was ready to join a trainer's team, and grew up in a safe, healthy place. Zenara was being taught to be a trainer's starter and is innately disposed for fights. She loves it. These Espurr were taken from their mom before they were ready, held captive for months, and then had to fend for themselves in the wilderness. We don't know how they feel about fighting yet. I'm not sure even they do. And we don't know what would bring up trauma, which could make them explode things.}

Lou furrowed his brow. {These four survived many wicked months in Sinnoh's wilderness after a perilous escape from those poacher fiends. They're cautious, yet also survivors that stick together. I see potential in their eyes and I know how to train someone within their limits.}

Amethyst rubbed her temples as she and Lou continued to argue, so I decided to stand by Violet. "I've been meaning to bring this up, but if they wanted the Sunyshore gym could take them in. We have a lot of psychics there to help hone their powers and they'd have all of us around." I eyed Lou. "They could have proper training… when they're more stable."

Violet shook her head. "Amethyst and I have already spoken with our mother. They are to venture to our home, and live there under her care. She has already asked someone to make the journey to escort them safely."

My eyes widened. "You're still in contact with your mom?"

"We were never out of contact with her," she replied with a small shrug before grimacing. "I considered attempting to help them return to Kalos, but there is no guarantee they would not end up in another region against their will once more. At least this way, we will know they are safe."

Sounds like wherever their mother is, she's in a secure location. Or perhaps she's the one who secures the location?

"Well, if you want to send them to your mother, isn't this the perfect opportunity for you to bring them there yourself? Do you still have to stay away from your home?" I asked.

She nodded. "The day will come when we can return home. But that day will not come soon."

I frowned at her vague statement. They rarely spoke about their family or their home, certainly not why they can't go back. It made me wonder what they were trying to achieve in their time away from her… or if the situation at home doesn't allow them to come back.

{Oh, can your mother train them?} Lou asked, hovering over to Violet. {They'll need training to cope through this land. At some point they must be able to protect themselves in case we cannot get there in time.}

Violet took Lou's fervency into account with careful consideration. "She ensures all who enter her care reach a point where they can provide for themselves. If a threat arises while they are there, I doubt we would be able to arrive before she has already neutralized said threat."

{The way you talk about her, it sounds like she's highly competent. Anything like Reginleif or Roland?} Donut asked.

She thought for a moment. "In strength, undoubtedly. She is also the one who taught Amethyst and myself how to fight."

{Oh,} Holyn interjected. {Then they'll be a-okay. Those two can take out anyone, so if your mom is like them they're safer than anything.} He stated matter of factly.

"And that is why I asked if she would take them in," Violet replied with a small smile. "She has lived many years and has attained immense wisdom that she uses to benefit others. I could never raise the kittens as well as she could, it would be a dishonor to their birth mother and everything they have endured."

{And she'll make sure they learn how to not blow stuff up at their own pace. She definitely knows kids better than Lou,} Amethyst affirmed while floating over.

Lou considered objecting, but one of the kittens was tugging on his legs, distracting him. {I must admit I am best suited with soldiers in need of an authority figure.}

Amethyst chuckled. {That you are. You could learn, but we both know you'd prefer thinking of new drills and whatnot.}

I leaned down for the kits who had grouped up together. "Until your escort arrives you guys can hang with us, alright? The city is a big place, but there's loads to explore. Just remember the buddy system."

The kits meowed plenty of positive affirmations my way to know they got the picture. I stood up with a smile before checking my phone. "Now I've gotta let Clementine know what's up. But first, when will the escort arrive?"

"A week from now, so all injuries are healed before the journey."

I hummed, pleased with that information. I eyed the kittens once again, a complete contrast from a week ago. Anxious, hurt, cold, afraid, hungry. Now they were full of childish glee and held fondness for all of us. They were going to have a proper home soon.

One more week, let's make it a good one.

~x5x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Local Xerneas Shrine - Sunyshore City

Time: A Few Days Later - Topaz's Birthday - March

Time flew by once again, this time out in the world. The kittens were pensive at first, especially due to the amount of humans and foreign pokemon that reside in a place like Sunyshore City, but we all made it abundantly clear they would suffer no harm as long as they were with us. So that eased their nerves exponentially.

Thankfully, as Sunyshore is the best place to live in the world, despite being a city it was very rural friendly. The skyscrapers and bustling city life are sectioned neatly away from everyone who wants to chill.

While the kittens preferred to sleep in the tree hollow, they did end up going inside the house a few times. They finally met Volkner and his team and didn't need any demonstration to see how battle honed they were, but we affirmed that they were our family as well much to their pleasure.

We still referred to each other as Lux and Nyx for their sake. Eventually we told them our real names and said they could call us whatever and it seems that Lux and Nyx stuck with them. Amethyst told me that to them, Lux and Nyx were our real names.

Jade continued keeping his distance, so I only got to see him at school or if I went to his house. He's been training on his own a lot lately, honing Shizu's fire. He can't ask Garland for training currently, so he's been coming to the gym to get some guidance.

It seems like he's been consistently training or fighting for months. At this point, I had to wonder if he plans on challenging other regions' gyms or if he just vents constantly.

Clementine was pleased to hear of the kittens' recovery and visited them one last time to make sure they were alright. I couldn't thank her enough for all her help, but she seemed even more amazed with us.

Violet and Amethyst still weren't keen on bringing the kittens anywhere high density like stores or the gym, and not near places with pokemon they know the kittens would dislike. Fortunately, walks through the suburbs and trips to various parks were on the table. We got them acquainted with the local wild Munchlax and various other wild natives around the neighborhood, enjoyed picnics and overall had a good time. Some Munchlax even brought a few apples to them, though from the empty sack beside them it was clear that was all that was left.

Eventually, Rogelio's blessing finally kicked in, so us humans could understand them properly. Thanks to that, Violet and Amethyst could finally have a proper conversation on what they'd like their names to be. The quartet wanted names connected with one another, so they went with the theme of the four winds.

The most outgoing was named Borea; the first to leave the den. She was typically the first to act in the group and could be considered the leader.

The formerly injured was now Favonius as she was the most balanced. The neutral voice of reason was needed, leaning her family towards learning new things.

Auster was the most curious and innocent, he had a tendency to wander and then scurry back to his siblings when scared.

Vulturnus was the shyest. He never strayed far from at least one of his siblings and spoke the least. According to Amethyst, his psychic focus was the tightest.

Each one seemed to prefer different people in our group. They definitely liked all of us, but I noticed when they weren't clinging to each other, they found their favorites to talk to. I didn't mind though, I was always keen to be there for them.

Especially on this particular day, my 13th birthday!

It's been three years since I'd become a trainer and with each day spent with my team I felt more mature and complete. To commemorate this milestone, I wanted to take charge of the day and organize something for everyone to show them how grown up I was.

There was still some snow, but it was a warm, sunny day in Sunyshore. As Rogelio would say, seize any chance to strengthen bonds.

I was in the kitchen alongside my team analyzing the contents of our fridge, each of us staring intensely.

Donut pointed at the cheese slices. {Do they like cheese?}

Holyn nodded. {Yeah, they all had little bits of Volkner's mac and cheese the other night.}

{So cheese and crackers are on the table. In that case we should take the ham slices as well,} Lou added.

"Sounds like a plan," I said as I removed the cheese and ham from the fridge and placed them in a picnic basket. "We've also got this cheesecake Volkner bought. You think he'd mind if we take it?"

{Only if we replace it before he gets home from work,} Donut noted.

"Alright… taking the cheesecake then," I said, placing that in the basket as well.

{We can't forget the strawberries and whipped cream,} Holyn insisted, pulling those from the fridge as well.

{Too much sugar won't do for a picnic. Felines tend to prefer grainy foods, so I'd take some brown rice and perhaps the oatmeal from this morning's breakfast?} Lou suggested, having us all rubbing our chins.

Violet walked in from outside with Cenza on her shoulder, Amethyst floating beside her while Zenara bounded towards us with the kittens nestled in her wool. Amethyst gave us all a curious look. {Felines tend to prefer what now?}

We all turned around in unison. I looked them all up and down. "Good, you all look ready. We're all going on a picnic and are trying to figure out what we should bring. The sun is shining, the temperature is mild and the location has already been scouted. It'll be the perfect afternoon!" I cheered. "Plus, it's my birthday so none of you can refuse or it'll be bullying."

{Happy birthday, Lux!} Cenza cheered. The kittens mewled positively in turn.

Violet nodded to me, Amethyst grinning. {Well that's a nice surprise, happy birthday. I hope it's a good one.}

Zenara had to restrain herself from leaping on me, the kittens still in her wool. {Happy birthday! I got to see another one!}

I grinned at them all, feeling pleased.

{Nyx, have you seen the picnic blanket around? We got the utensils, just can't remember where we put the blanket,} Donut asked.

It only took her a moment before she nodded, going to rummage in the linen closet. Amethyst meanwhile floated over to the basket, sniffing it and then looking incredulously at us all. {Birthday boy or not, you've lived with me for how long and none of you pack fish for kittens? You've lived with Froberge, c'mon now.}

{We packed fish… in a separate bag,} Holyn said, pointing to the bag in the corner with a generic fish label on it. {Lux hissed when I showed him tuna, so we put it over there.}

"I didn't hiss!" I objected.

{He didn't, but he did make a face,} Donut added.

She just rolled her eyes, looking at me. {It's your birthday, so I won't try and argue fish should make up half the weight of the food. Just a third.}

"Both! So less talking about fish and more picnic prepping!" I declared before leaning down in front of the kittens. "Today I wanna show you this beautiful shrine. It's got tall trees, lush grass and excellent ambiance. How's that sound?"

Borea looked at me, confused. {What's a shrine?}

"They're places where Sinnohans worship legendary pokemon," I explained. "I know Kalos is mostly churches and cathedrals, but shrines are more casual. You just pass by and say some prayers, or you can stay a little while."

Violet walked back in, holding the picnic blanket. Amethyst nodded her head at her. {Nyx has one, and they're safe spaces for Pokemon too. It's a place where everyone can thank those who uphold the world around us.}

All the kitten's eyes widened, looking back at me. {And there won't be lots of humans?} Borea asked.

{At this time of the day most humans are at work, but I checked just in case beforehand and saw none,} Lou informed her.

They all looked more at ease at that. Auster looked over at Violet. {Will there be Pokemon?}
She nodded. "Possibly; it is not uncommon."

{No matter who else is there we'll be there with ya, and we've got a buncha food and stuff to just have fun! If you get scared, you can just hide in my wool until the scary things go away. Okay?} Zenara added, looking at her back.

Zenara has gotten more dependable since we've taken in the kittens. She's like a big sister.

They nodded at one another, Vulturnus burrowing a little deeper into her wool. She then looked up at me. {Is everything ready? Is there dried fruit?!}

"Give us a few more minutes and we'll be set."

Violet nodded at that, and she and Zenara walked over to the couch to wait. Amethyst, meanwhile, stayed behind.

{Okay, first things first.} The bag of fish was enveloped in a lavender glow, promptly throwing itself into the picnic basket. {I'll help you guys out, since we don't want the birthday boy gagging over tuna.}

I scoffed as we began reconfiguring the contents for the picnic.

~x6x~

Once everything was assembled we set off towards the shrine I had in mind. I told Amethyst beforehand where we were going, but I wanted the kittens to enjoy a pleasant surprise for once. We had gotten a stroller for the kittens to carry them all and placed the basket in the undercarriage.

The shrine in question was closer to Jade's house, so I knew the area well. Regardless of that, I often spent my time reading there, specifically during the spring. It was always the most pleasant to be there during the spring.

We stopped by the gate of the shrines with several different paths before us leading to other shrines.

{Which way do we go?} Borea asked.

I pointed straight ahead, the way with the most extravagant paving and decor, it was clearly well maintained. "The straight and narrow."

I led the group forward until we finally arrived at our destination. A park with a crystal clear circular brook, flowing around two trees at opposite ends. One tree had vibrant caramel-colored bark that spread wide, twisting and coiling before reaching upwards, the leaves refracting the sunlight in all colors of the rainbow to form an X. The plants immediately close by the tree were vibrant, their colors more saturated than usual. Even healthier than prime conditions would allow. The scent of countless flowers wafted through the air, fresh fruit accompanying it. The brook's water splashed here and there, wetting the grass on its banks as it babbled.

The other tree had nearly ebon bark, two merged trunks spiraling around each other before finally diverging and reaching upward. Branches grew only towards the ends, the black leaves along their boughs forming a large Y-shape. What light filtered through them was tinted red from the underside of the leaves. The earth around it was empty, lifeless. But not desolate. Fallen leaves and broken branches were mixed with the soil, the dirt a hearty, earthen, cinnamon brown. Even though no trees, grasses or shrubs grew close to it, it didn't give the feeling that it would spread. This was the space it inhabited, and that was as it should be.

The river flowed in one continuous loop, bringing plants that had reached the ends of their lives to the darker tree. Simultaneously bringing fresh, rich soil towards the brighter tree. One was less vibrant, without a doubt, but neither would survive without the other. Earth with no life would be barren, life with no earth would wither and die.

Their cycle bore fruit in the flora around the ring, trees, bushes, flowers and berry plants from all regions intermingled with one another. The park welcomed all, regardless of background, and all could live a healthy life here. Regardless of origin. Birdsong and gentle buzzing echoed from the trees, leaves rustling here and there as Pokemon leapt amidst the branches.

I turned back to everyone, the kittens staring in awe and Violet's group sans Zenara rather surprised themselves.

"This is the Sunyshore Shrine of Rebirth. It is dedicated to the legendaries of life and death, Xerneas and Yveltal," I explained, gesturing to the lively parts indicating Xerneas and the dull parts for Yveltal. "They are also the primary legendaries of the Kalos region. The Palkia and Dialga to our Sinnoh."

Amethyst looked around, silently taking in everything. The kittens' eyes were immediately drawn to the two main trees, tension leaving their little bodies as they did.

Amethyst just floated over, sitting on Violet's shoulder. {I'd say this is the closest I've been to the rebirth duo. It's… comforting.}

{This place… these trees,} Cenza whispered as she began scampering around, sniffing the area. {I recognize so much and yet so much more is different.}

"Ages ago an explorer from Kalos planted two seeds here, supposedly blessed by the Kalos legends as a gift for the Hisuians. Once they took root the people began to notice the land surrounding it undergo change. The Kalosian asked if a shrine could be built here honoring the Kalos legendaries, after being inspired by a fish pokemon they'd see in the nearby water," I explained, gesturing to the X and Y-shaped trees. "Every other tree was planted by respectable families from all over the world that honored the life and death legends. Despite conflicting growth requirements they've all managed to coexist together to this day."

{Palms from Alola, spruce of Kalos, birch from Hoenn and so many more have taken root here and have thrived,} Lou continued. {The locals say this is indicative of how one can thrive anywhere as long as they are able to root themselves. You are not bound to your birth place, home is where you decide. I personally share that sentiment.}

Donut turned to the kittens. {I know it's a lot to take in, but I hope you all like it. This shrine is one of the most beautiful in the entire city and the energy here is so… revitalizing,} Donut hummed.

Violet just looked at Zenara, Amethyst and the kittens before sitting down in the grass. Zenara walked over and sat on her lap, making sure the kittens had a good view of everything. The only thing they did beyond that was Amethyst beckoning Cenza over. She swiftly scampered over, sitting close to Zenara.

I stared at them all, surprised by the sudden wave of awe that washed over all of them. The kittens I meant to surprise, but I didn't think they'd all be this starstruck. Maybe I take these places for granted because I'm so used to them? Other places likely don't have anything so extravagant, especially for foreign legends.

I shook my head as my team and I began setting up the picnic, the others allowing the shrine's aura to wash over them. I laid out the blanket and cushions while Donut and Holyn began setting up the plates, bowls and cups for everyone. Lou meanwhile began setting up the food so it was easily accessible to all.

Once we were finished, Holyn addressed everyone. {So now we've gotta give our thanks before eating our meal.}

"Whatever you're thankful for, just say it in your head and then start eating, alright?" I suggested before turning to the center trees. "But make sure you thank the legends for providing us a safe place for us all to hang out."

Violet nodded, slower than I expected her to, before she slowly got up. Making absolutely certain not to disturb Amethyst or Cenza, and walking backwards onto the blanket before sitting down on a cushion again. Zenara looked kind of confused, but she settled right back down with Violet as she began taking food for everyone around her and distributing it.

{Do other places like this exist?} Borea eventually asked Violet, looking back at her.

She nodded after a moment. "In Celestic Town, and from what I have heard the temple in Snowpoint is similar in reverence, but beyond their land…" She glanced back at me. "I am unfamiliar with similar places of reverence existing so close to humans."

"Sunyshore City isn't the most religious place in Sinnoh, but it's still a Sinnoh city. There's a load of reverence towards legends, but due to so many foreigners finding their roots here, there's a lot of extravagant shrines for non-Sinnoh legends. When the weather is nice, I like to rotate and relax at different ones… have I never mentioned that?" I pondered.

{It was getting rather cold when they moved to Sunyshore and we haven't shown any of them much beyond our neighborhood as they aren't keen on most humans. Besides, we spent most of the beginning of the year traveling,} Lou informed me. {The chance never arose.}

"Huh, makes sense," I muttered, turning back to them. "Well I don't know every shrine in the city, but there's plenty. There's also the shrine to Azelf and Lake Valor by the lakefront. There's a shrine in Pastoria centered around the Great Marsh. Then there's that Gracidea garden close to Highshire," I rattled on, counting the shrines on my hands. "There's a lot more, but you can find most of them online."

{This one is different, though.} Amethyst spoke up, still not looking back.

Holyn tilted his head. {How?}

{It's…} she hesitated, finding the words. {There's shrines to the Lake Guardians all over Sinnoh, but it feels different at the lakes themselves, right? We've been to shrines for the Grove of Vibrance and Shroud of Nocturne, but they don't feel like this one.}

{That's prolly because this shrine was made from aspects directly taken from the legends,} Donut assumed. {That makes them more potent, right Lux?}

I shrugged. "The mystique of legendaries has always eluded me. Even Rogelio is an enigma sometimes. Maybe this shrine is so strong because it came straight from the source. Maybe it's because it's been so well maintained and respected by the citizens of Sunyshore. Or perhaps the legends are trying to assure them through the shrine? All possibilities I've researched."

{We should prod Cynthia and Heimdall,} Amethyst stated while turning to the rest of the food. {I'm no aura user, and from what you've said it's like Cynthia's second job is finding out stuff nobody else knows.}

{She loves this stuff even more than Lux. It's like it's her first job,} Donut chuckled.

{It is her job and hobby, Donut,} Lou reminded him. {That's why she was a special guest at the Oreburgh Mining Expo. She has literally written several well received books on these topics.}

Donut shrugged. {Anything involving letters and you sort of lose me. Can't read. Actually, neither can you, why do you-}

{I spent many years without limbs, oftentimes all I'd do is listen motionless,} Lou answered quickly.

{Can we touch the tree?} Holyn asked, all eyes landing on him. {Maybe things would make more sense if we started touching it?}

He scooted over to Auster who had been staring at it intensely. {Do you wanna touch the tree and feel things?}

He nodded. {I wanna know why it feels like home.}

Holyn turned to me. {So we can touch it, right?}

"Well… yes, but absolutely no rough housing at all," I warned them.

Holyn looked pleased as he picked up Favonius and scampered over to the tree with the other kittens following suit. We all watched from afar as Holyn placed her down and stood beside the kittens.

{Let's do it at the same time. On the count of 3. 1… 2… 3!} Holyn sounded off as they all placed a hand on the tree. I swore a wave of aura pulsed from the tree, washing over us all, coursing through all our bodies. It tingled, not in a bad way, but it… reminded me how I was alive. Living and breathing. It wasn't a sensation I could easily describe, but unexpected thoughts sprung to mind.

Why am I thinking about my dad and brother at a time like this? Nero is dead… so does that mean dad is alive?

I shook off the strange sensation as everyone else seemed to be recovering from it as well. I looked over to see the five who touched it to find Holyn seemed the least immediately affected. He did take a second to look at his claws though, more sure of himself.

I wonder what he felt? He looks determined.

Holyn then bent down to find the kits were sniffling. {Oh uh, did the tree hurt you?}

Borea shook her head, hugging her siblings as Violet, Amethyst and Zenara all went over to hold them close. {We felt maman…}

Holyn breathed a sigh of relief. {That's good. I bet your maman is happy you all were brave enough to do this. My parents said we're always connected no matter where we go. So when I touched the tree, I felt they were okay. So your maman must've felt you were all okay too. So all of you don't have to worry as much, cuz you'll all keep being okay.}

They were quiet for a moment before Vulturnus looked at Violet, tears welling in his eyes. {We can go back home someday, right?}

Violet nodded instantly. "As soon as you feel comfortable enough with the ways we can get you back home."

Donut scampered over to them. {Until then let's take it easy and eat, okay? Let's just enjoy a nice day in a pretty place.}

The kittens nodded, staying cuddled in Violet's arms as she brought them back over to the blanket. Zenara stood right by her side, making sure the kittens felt safe while Amethyst floated to Cenza. {You doing okay?}

She nodded. {Yeah I'm…} She looked at the center trees, deep in thought before turning to Amethyst with a smile. {I've taken root here, just like these trees. So I'll be alright.}

Amethyst softly bumped her shoulder. {That makes two of us.}

Violet shuffled over to me with her own plate of food, having served every pokemon before herself. "If there are other shrines like this around the city, I believe it would be pleasant for everyone to go see them." She turned to face me directly. "Then perhaps you can show me evidence of your faith in humanity that I have yet to see."

My enthusiasm was bursting at the seams. "I'll give you the grand tour, I promise!"

~x7x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Beacon Beach - Sunyshore City

Time: A Week Later - March

As I promised, I tried to take everyone to one new shrine each day. None had quite the same impact as the Shrine of Rebirth, but I felt that was for the best. I wanted everyone to relax, not feel overwhelmed. Each time Violet seemed genuinely surprised by how well tended the shrines were. Course she still had her reservations towards humans, but I wasn't trying to change her whole view on the world. I just wanted to show everyone something nice.

The kittens certainly enjoyed each place. They'd taken to leaving their stroller at times and allowing us to carry them places. It was hard to recognize them as the scared little kittens I had met. They treated us like their lovable older siblings and we made sure they could depend on that. Zenara and Holyn especially seemed fond of their new roles.

The more time we spent with the kittens, the sadder I became at the thought of them going all the way to… wherever in Sinnoh they were heading. Those thoughts remained up until the final day of their time with us.

We were to meet the kittens' escort on the beach of the house's property. It was more private than our backyard and we all wanted this escort to be discreet.

Pokemon leave the gym to start new lives all the time. This is a little different, but it's nothing I'm not used to. Sometimes they come back and oftentimes they don't and I've gotten used to that.

We all sat around waiting by the beach table while the kittens played in the sand with Cenza, Holyn and Zenara. It was a relatively warm day for March, not enough to go in the water, but it was sunny and pleasant. A perfect day for four healthy kits and their trek across the region.

I noticed Violet and Amethyst both looking fondly at the kittens, happy to just watch them play. They'd glance around every so often, checking to see if the escort was coming yet, but they didn't seem in any rush. At the same time, they didn't seem as upset as I expected to see them leave.

Maybe the best assurance for them is that they leave to be somewhere they love, rather than stay here with them.

I leaned on the table with Donut perched on my shoulder. "I figured you two would be sadder to see them go."

They looked at me, then each other before looking back at me. Violet spoke first. "Their home is not with us. This is the best way for them to live their lives in security and serenity. I see no reason to mourn that."

"Selfless, logical; a very Violet answer," I noted, turning to Amethyst. "And you?"

She shrugged. {I'm not a mom. I'm happy to know 'em, and sure, part of me is sad to see 'em go. But I'm more happy they're going to a place they can really call home. Up to now, they've been fighting for their lives. That's not a fun life. I'm glad they're headed somewhere that won't be a problem. Fights might happen, sure, but they'll have help. They won't just be fending for themselves anymore. Knowing that's more than enough for me.}

{Lengthier, more relatable word choice. I would call that a very Amethyst answer,} Donut confirmed. I smiled in agreement.

She chuckled, leaning back a little with a grin. {What can I say? I like the sound of my own voice.}

After a few more minutes, I heard something leaping on the rocks. We looked over to see a Gogoat, darting across the cliffside as easily as if it were flat ground. They found purchase on crevices almost flush with the rock face, bounding down without an issue. Sand kicked up when they landed before us, the kittens' eyes brightening seeing another Kalos Pokemon.

Thank Palkia, not a bird. We don't need Lou literally shooting the messenger. Gogoat was unexpected, but one of the more seen Kalosian species in Sinnoh. I've heard there are populations on Mount Coronet.

Violet and Amethyst both got up, quickly going over and hugging the new arrival tightly. Amethyst floated in front of them after a moment, grinning from ear to ear. {It's been way too long, Thetis. How's it going? Everyone doing alright, things going as we figured?}

They bleated something in response, Amethyst sighing. {Yeah, Melaina would've loved to take 'em. But they shore are bitches, right?}

They seem comfortable.

Thetis laughed, gently butting her before nuzzling into Violet a little. They stood like that for a moment before the three walked back to us. Borea was easily the most wide eyed in that moment as Violet gestured. "Everyone, this is Thetis. She will be taking the kittens back home."

{So you're an old friend of these two right?} Donut questioned as he hopped off my shoulder onto Thetis' back to lean into her ear. {Got any embarrassing stories you can share? Amethyst has a tendency to act way too cool and I think she needs humbling.}

Thetis rolled her eyes, bleating something before proceeding to not just leap about on the side of the cliff, still with Donut on her back, but actively do stunts like it was second nature. Donut, preferring to do stunts of his own volition, swiftly jumped off her back into my arms, unamused.

{No one ever humors me,} he sighed. I patted his head in sympathy as he perched himself back on my shoulder.

Thetis trotted back towards us, giving Lou a once over before nodding and bleating something to him. Lou screwed his face, looking her up and down before glancing at me.

{This one certainly has a way with words,} he said unamused.

When she glanced in my direction, she didn't give much indication on what she thought. I could tell she was unimpressed, but the fact I was Violet's friend seemed to earn me at least some points.

Well the three of us certainly didn't win any fans just now.

I didn't have anything in mind to say, but looking back at Violet and Amethyst, I realized making a good first impression to one of their old friends might mean something. So I gave it a shot.

"Nice to meet you, Thetis, I'm Topaz. We appreciate you meeting us all the way here to pick up the kittens. I figure you're not big on cities, so we're grateful you agreed to meet us here rather than in the wilderness."

She tilted her head ever so slightly before looking back at Violet and bleating something. She just nodded. "One of the few, yes."

Thetis hasn't questioned Violet's ability to understand her without telepathy. Does she know about the blessing? …or she's used to Amethyst translating for her. That's almost definitely it.

Holyn leaned in next to me. {She doesn't… dislike you?}

That's about the best you can get with someone from Violet's background. That's how she treated me when we first met.

Thetis then trotted up to the kittens, Zenara, Holyn and Cenza. She only needed to take one look at Cenza before bowing her head, grunting something seriously.

Cenza's eyes lit up. {Merci! I'd love to visit with everyone once they're all settled in. I can't wait!}

{She likes Cenza more than you three,} Holyn whispered to me.

{She did not say that,} Donut hissed. {...it's true though.}

{I haven't even done anything…} Lou mumbled.

Thetis chuckled, looking at Zenara and Holyn. Zenara's eyes were wide and bright, the orb on her tail glowing happily. Thetis said something to each of them, and Zenara immediately puffed up like she was ready to fight. In a good way. {We will! And we'll come help make sure everything's all good too!}

Holyn stomped his feet excitedly at the invite. {When can we visit?} he asked.

She considered her response for a moment before bleating to him.

Holyn nodded earnestly, his dome gleaming in the sunlight. {If you guys ever need help defending, I can help too! I helped beat up a witch and her pals already and she was looney!}

A sudden reminder of Jubilee's antics made me cringe, but her smile widened, and she butted heads with him gently before turning to the Espurr. She crouched down to make it easier for them to climb on, nodding to her back while saying something softly. Borea helped Favonius climb on, just to be safe, while Auster sat up in front and Vulturnus sat next to him behind a horn.

{Thank you for coming,} Favonius said quietly.

{We get to have a home! This is gonna be great!} Borea cheered.

{Do we get to explore?} Auster asked, hope in his eyes. When Thetis nodded, he threw up his arms with a great big smile before leaning forward and hugging onto her mane. {I can't wait!}

Vulturnus didn't say anything, but he seemed content to hide in her leaf mane next to his siblings. The four and Thetis made sure they were secure before she stood up again, the kittens looking at us and waving.

{Thanks again for helping!} Borea called.

{I'm still here thanks to you. So… thanks. A lot,} Favonius said with a grin.

{I told you I'd be there when you called. You were brave enough to call, be proud of that,} Amethyst said, floating over and giving them all a goodbye hug before floating back to Violet's side.

She wasn't far behind as she knelt down, looking at the four. "I know this region may not be your own, but I hope you will one day be able to call your destination home as we do. But as we are not able to go with you yet, I wanted you all to have a reminder of us." Violet pulled the blanket she had wrapped around them the night we had saved them, placing it around them all. "I hope it brings you all comfort."

Holyn jumped up next to her. {When we're older, let's all go to Oreburgh City! That's where I'm from! We've got coal, weird rocks, mountains and ummm… conveyor belts!}

{We can play again when we go there, and we'll always come help if you need us!} Zenara cheered.

Auster nodded excitedly. {And we can share all the best spots we know about!}

Lou buzzed, hovering over to them. {I expect when we reunite you're all sufficiently trained. I see aspiring combatants, each with their own unique skill set. Until then, listen to your elders and… and err…} Lou looked at a loss for words for once.

{And make sure to eat, sleep and play as much as you can,} Donut said as he jumped onto Lou's back. {As long as you live your life in harmony with others, I'll be proud.} He eyed Lou. {We'll both be proud.}

Vulturnus didn't seem thoroughly convinced that Lou would be proud of him, but nodded at Donut. {Thank you…}

Lou floated a tad closer so Donut could properly hug Vulturnus. Before Lou could float away, Vulturnus tapped the tip of his mandible. Lou's aura exuded a gentleness that was foreign to each of us. Evolution granted him so much power, but it also changed him psychologically. Perhaps Vulturnus touched upon these feelings.

Either way, he feels good about this.

Cenza hopped on Thetis' back, her tail was quivering, but she maintained her positive fairy attitude with a mix of reaffirmed determination. {When we meet again, I'll be stronger. I'm going to help everyone save more pokemon. So one day, let's all go back to Kalos and show your maman how much you've all grown. Okay?}

They all nodded immediately to that. That was a vow to grow up to be stronger individuals. Ones that escaped a hellish future and lived a deserving life. One day they could go back to their origins, but not until they were ready.

I smiled softly towards the ground in thought.

I can't wait to see what fine pokemon they'll grow up into.

Borea tilted her head at me. {Are you okay, Lux?}

Borea's words flung me back into the world. Everyone had huddled around Thetis, meanwhile I was several paces away. I looked over them all and realized I was the only one who hadn't said goodbye.

I prolly should, huh… but my chest hurts thinking about it.

I stepped up to Borea to say goodbye to her properly. I even opened my mouth, but I couldn't think of anything to say. What was there for me to say?

I'm so happy you're healthy and happy, but I wish you all could grow up in the gym? Say the word and I'll come visit anytime? Please don't leave, I'll cry?

I closed my mouth, stewing in my own conflictions.

What would Rogelio say? The Fool is open to new beginnings and truths. So I… I should be honest.

I inhaled deeply, in an attempt to calm my nerves as I looked down at Borea. She was the first to leave the hollow. The one that convinced the rest of her siblings. If she can do that, I can do this.

"Like everyone, I'm glad you've found a safe haven here in Sinnoh. But the whole truth is… I wish you all could live in Sunyshore. Learn and live like how the rest of us do. I know that leaving with Thetis is for the best, everyone here agrees. So I'm a bit ashamed to be the only selfish one here… I thought I was more grown up than that considering my birthday just passed, but guess I need a few more, huh?" I laughed weakly, astonished by my sudden attachment.

"But I can't ask you to stay and I won't because that wouldn't be right. It wouldn't be any better than the people that hurt you. So I'll just say… where my dad comes from we say Alola, which means hello and goodbye." I managed a bigger smile. "So, Alola Alola. I'm glad to have met you now and I can't wait to meet you again."

They all looked at each other before Favonius looked up at me. {You helped us. And you're helping us even though you want us to stay, and are a human. Maybe you don't like it, but you're not being a bad person. You're doing good person things. So that's good, right?}

I smiled down at them, trying not to cry. "Looks like you're already more grown up than me. It is good… and I'll keep being good, even if I don't like it. That's just what it means to be Lux, right?"

Borea smiled a bit. {Yup. And also, Nyx is there to make sure you keep doing good things. To help save people, like you saved us.}

I nodded in earnest, as I leaned down to hug them all, their mix of positive feelings filling my heart. "You're right, I won't ever stop saving people. I'll keep making a difference, I swear it." I smiled down at them all. "Thank you all for believing in me. I needed it."

They all hugged back, nuzzling into me. The psychic vibe from all four of them made it hard to pull away as I was suddenly filled with the urge to not let go, but I am Lux. I had to be good, even if I don't like it. I pulled away first with a smile and backed up. I reached into my bag and pulled out four bandanas of different colors.

"I wanted to get you all farewell gifts like Nyx, so I figured maybe you'd like something like what Donut and Holyn wear for their items," I explained as the kittens looked up at the bandanas with welcome awe. I tied the red bandana to Borea, blue to Favonius, green to Auster and purple to Vulturnus. Each one matching their eye color.

I then turned to Thetis. "Thanks for waiting on us. Have a safe trip," I said.

he nodded, bleating in response before she stepped away slightly. She set her hooves before leaping up the cliff, just as easily as she'd leapt down it. Within the minute, she'd scaled it and ran off out of view. The kittens looked back at us with wet eyes, but hopeful hearts. I didn't know where their home was, but I knew they were heading towards it.

Fly freely, Four Winds.

I felt Donut perch himself on my shoulder, but I didn't totally register it. I just stared out where the kittens had jumped away, a tight feeling in my chest I hadn't expected today.

{Zio…} Donut whispered. Lou and Holyn huddled close by to me.

Zio; he hasn't called me that in awhile.

Amethyst floated over, patting me on the back. {Just let it out. Don't worry about us, we're here for you.}

I felt something stream across my face. I lifted my hand to touch it to feel wetness.

When did I start crying? I… I would've noticed…

It wouldn't stop. I had to let it out. I covered my eyes and wept for the kittens that I knew only briefly. The kittens that I stood vigil for so they could sleep peacefully through the night in a tree hollow. The kittens I showed as much of my beloved city as I could before they had to go. The kittens that had to leave for a more fitting home far from us.

I felt Violet's hand on my shoulder, opposite Donut. I looked over to see sympathy, understanding in her eyes.

"You carry them in your heart, as they do you. Rejoice the time that was spent together, anticipate when it will come once again. Bonds are not such fragile things to break from distance. You brought them light and stability when they never knew it, Lux. Remember that."

I rubbed my eyes to obtain better clarity, simply nodding.

I made a difference. I'm making a difference and it helped those four. I'll keep going, for them and everyone I love.

Question: Do you love Espurr?

Gym Trainer: Topaz Heart

Brothers in Arms: Lou (Vikavolt), Donut (Pikachu), Holyn (Cranidos).

Deck: Fool, Devil, Strength, Hermit, Fortune, Hierophant.

x

Human Companion: Violet

Pokemon Family: Amethyst (MeowsticF), Zenara (Mareep).

x

Allies: Cenza (Dedenne), Rogelio (Calyrex).

Beloved Kittens: Borea, Auster, Favonius, Vulturnus.