- Chapter 25: Where You Belong -
You know…I sometimes try not to think too much about it…
When I first came to this world…I was scared. So scared.
Everything was different. Everything changed. I lost my body. I lost my mind.
I begin to question the world…the gods…
"Why did you bring me here?"
"Why did I change…?"
"Is this a gift…or is it punishment…?"
But the answer never came.
The answer may never come.
So all I can do…is wait and see.
Wait and see what happens. See if my presence in this world has any true purpose.
Until I find the answer…
…I will continue to do my best…as always.
- 0000 -
Morning had passed by the time Team Retribute woke. The activity that buzzed through the complex was almost quiet as the early noon swept through. Many teams had long departed for their missions.
Again, Krista didn't dream last night. If she did, she couldn't remember. What she did know was that she had a surprisingly decent sleep. She found that most of the pain from day before had vanished. It was still going to take some time for her to grow used to having a rapidly healing body.
Pineno was fine himself. He assured Krista that the worst of the pain he felt was Skullzer's presence. It was because of that that he remembered little of Gyra's rampage. All he was concerned about was getting away from the pain, but he couldn't move. Even the smallest attempts made the blisters worsen. It was a horrid description, but Krista understood why he remained so helpless on the ground.
When she asked him what the Headmaster wanted from him, he merely shrugged.
"He just asked about my mom," Pineno said. "And my siblings. I told him I found out what my eldest brother was called, but that was really it. I guess he just wanted to check on me after the Skullzer incident."
Pineno was so nonchalant about it. Krista was sure it was likely a sensitive topic that revolved around his mother's Corruption. It wasn't her place to prod about it, but curiosity still bugged her.
When they arrived in the commons, they found that the cafeteria line wasn't so long. By the time they got their breakfast, Highness already had their late breakfast prepared for them. She heard all about their misfortune and made an exception for their late arrival. They would have otherwise been forced to wait until dinner to have a proper meal.
Once they chose an empty table to stand at, it flooded with several other Pokémon. Krista held an apple halfway towards her mouth when she felt the space close in around her.
"Uh…hi?" Krista greeted them with a forced smile.
"So, you actually did it?" A Shinx stood upright as his front paws pressed firmly on the table's surface.
"Did what?" The grin on the Shinx's face was so wide, Krista feared his mouth would consume his head.
"The Sorcerer!" A Phanpy shouted, a toot slipping from his trunk. "You beat him up!"
Krista's mouth hung open, but she didn't know how to respond. Did an associate say something? She assumed they would keep such big events to themselves, but perhaps not. Maybe the idea of a Sorcerer being pinned down was news that was meant to be spread. It never crossed her mind that she would wake up surrounded by so many eyes.
"Hey! Hey, Meowth!" A Skitty tapped the table with one of her stubby paws. "You didn't answer the question! Did you actually beat up that Houndoom?"
"Well, I wasn't really trying to fight him," Krista answered honestly. "I was just trying to avoid getting hit by a hyper beam and—"
"No way! She really did face The Enclosed Beast!" A Vulpix jumped from her spot. "That is so cool!"
Krista looked at Pineno, but he didn't know what to do either. He wore an uneasy smile due to the many genuine ones that gleamed at them.
An Eevee bounced on her paws, leaping for joy. "I bet that stupid hound is humiliated for getting bested by a feline!"
"Can't you all just lay it off?" A Riolu stood a fair distance away, arms crossed and a frown worn on his face. "She's overwhelmed as is. You're not making her feel any better."
(Thank you.) Krista sighed as the group took a few steps away. The air didn't feel so tight anymore.
"Tell us what happened!" The Phanpy said.
"Yeah! We want to hear your side of the story!" The Vulpix said.
Krista almost wanted to decline, but what the Vulpix said caught her attention. "Wait, wait. My side? Who told you all about this?"
"A Gligar did! He was there, too!" The Eevee answered. "He said that you knocked that Houndoom out cold!"
Well, that explained it.
(Gee. Thanks Glider. Would have been nice for you to ask me first…) Krista sighed. There wasn't much that could be done about that. As she looked at the many sparkling eyes, she realized that she didn't know where to start. Telling stories wasn't something she thought she was good at.
"U-um. E-excuse me. May…may I c-come through?"
She knew that voice. Searching for the yellow headfin didn't take too long; the bright color stood out from the rest of the crowd.
Tidal squeezed his way through with his head down and eyes glued to his feet. As soon as he reached the table, Pineno made room for him to stand next to him. Tidal stood on two legs and pressed his hands on the surface. As he looked at Pineno's face, he smiled. He turned at Krista, and his smile brightened.
"It's…it's good to know that you made it back here safe. Wh-when I heard about what happened…I got scared. B-because of last time…" Tidal paused before he could say anything else. He realized everyone was listening. "U-um, anyway…everyone is really excited about this. We…we haven't had a Sorcerer defeated since Ms. Vigor took down Armora years ago…"
Tidal always spoke of Vigor with such high regard, and Krista finally understood why. She had witnessed what the Machamp was capable of…and it was only a fraction of her power.
It was frightening. No, correction: Everything about Vigor was terrifying. Between her stopping a rockslide formulated from gigantic boulders, to her holding off a point-blank hyper beam with her bare hands…Krista didn't know what to make of her. She still couldn't believe Vigor took down a giant Gyarados with a single thunder punch!
And that was her holding back? It couldn't be!
Skullzer said that even when they did hold back, they could still cause great damage because they were simply too strong. Now that Krista was safe in the fortress, surrounded by several Pokémon, her mind could finally put everything together. All that she had witnessed, all the stories she was told…
It made perfect sense why everyone clamored around the table with such beaming joy. The associates were powerful, but Krista was just a tiny Meowth who got lucky. Somehow, the gods smiled down at her and Skullzer was struck by a redirected blast.
No one else defeated a Sorcerer since Armora.
Armora…
Krista didn't know who Armora was, other than the fact that she was a Corviknight.
A Corviknight. What was a Corviknight? Krista was familiar with the species. She knew it was familiar, but for some odd reason, her mind refused to remember. The mental barrier that obstructed her other memories wasn't so strong though, so maybe it would surface. Maybe she needed another nap.
(Another nap? But you just woke up,) she scolded herself. She realized she desired to sleep a lot more than normal. Maybe her transformed body was starting to realize that her sleeping patterns weren't desirable…or something.
Or…maybe she was just that exhausted. To survive Skullzer twice now…yes. It brought all sorts of excitement that drained her…
Sleepy… Her mind…
She had to focus. She was surrounded.
Focus…
"…yeah but no one was ever able to beat up Skullzer!" The Phanpy's voice brought Krista back to reality.
The Vulpix took offense to his words. "No? The Hammer Arm took down Skullzer years ago!"
Pineno lowered his head. Krista realized that maybe he was anticipating being crowded due to his blood-relation. However, the crowd didn't pay him much attention. If they did, it was only a few glances at best, all of which displayed concern.
"Don't feel bad, Chespin," the Eevee said. "If Skullzer hurt me, I would be too scared to move, too."
"He was scared, because he was sane," a sour voice said.
(Midnight!) Krista had to suppress the need to unsheath her claws. With a crowd being present, it was guaranteed Midnight would make a show of humiliating her in front of everyone. Krista didn't need to add anymore fuel to the fire.
As expected, Magma and Axe stuck close to her as they pushed through the nervous crowd. Midnight shoved the Phanpy aside just to have room on the table. Not a single voice objected. Eevee and Vulpix even stepped back just to allow Magma and Ax to take their spots.
The entire area had gone quiet with nervous tension.
Tidal was right. Team Slasher really did have everyone on a leash.
"No one is crazy enough to try to fight a battle they can't win," Midnight said. "You didn't defeat Skullzer. That's all a lie. And there's absolutely no way you faced a Gyarados and lived. You couldn't even walk right when you first arrived here. All of a sudden you're fighting giants? Trying to look good now, aren't you?"
"If it makes you feel better, it wasn't really a fight. I was trying not to get turned into ashes," Krista said.
"Even if that was true, Skullzer couldn't have been stupid enough to let himself get hit by a hyper beam. What trick are you trying to pull?"
"I am not trying to pull anything." Krista's tail flicked impatiently.
Midnight narrowed her eyes. "Yeah, sure. Like you are actually being honest. I'm not going to fall for it. I can understand getting lucky and escaping that Houndoom once, but twice? Am I the only one suspicious about this?"
"I am!" Magma raised a claw.
"Not you, idiot. I'm talking about everyone else standing around this table!" Midnight swung out her arms as she looked at each and every Pokémon present. "I mean, let's be realistic here! A species of a Meowth that doesn't even live here suddenly popped up? Only two weeks, and she bested that hound twice? Better yet, how did he even find her and her so-called friend? If anything, this looks like a ploy. You're some kind of spy, aren't you?"
"A spy?!" Krista gawked. "That's the conclusion you're coming to?!"
"It makes sense to me," Midnight said. "You think his scouts are his only eyes and ears? The Sorcerers have many Pokémon who have tried to infiltrate this place. Maybe they've been successful all this time without us realizing. Maybe that's why…you walked out of that encounter unscathed!"
Before Krista could protest, Midnight jumped on the table's surface. Shouts of alarm sounded.
"Whoa, whoa!" Axe shouted. "Midnight! Don't you think this is a bit too farfetched?!"
"It's not! There's something wrong with her! Ever since she came here, she's been acting weird!" Midnight marched closer to Krista, who was on the verge of stepping back. "There's something wrong with her!"
"That doesn't mean she works for them, Midnight!" Pineno shouted at her.
"You shut it!" Midnight snapped at him. "You're nothing more than a sad coward who did absolutely nothing against that dog! You shouldn't even be here!"
"You keep him out of this!" Krista shouted.
"Y-yeah!" Tidal stammered. "H-h-he didn't do anything wrong! B-back off!"
Midnight looked at him, and a twisted smile formed on her face as she crooned. "Awwww, look at you! Trying to be brave again, aren't you? But we know it's all an act."
She crouched down to reach his eye-level, all while shaking her head. Her teeth clicked in a condescending manner.
"Deep down, you're nothing more than a sniveling liability towards anyone you get close to. It's no wonder why your own team hates you!"
Tidal opened his mouth for a response, but he pressed his lips together in an instant. He sulked back, his head fin pressed against his skull.
He looked hurt.
That was it.
Krista's fur bristled as she slammed her paws on the table. Midnight almost lost her balance. "You're the liability! You made him go!"
Midnight was taken back by the sudden change in attitude. She almost stammered, but recovered within seconds. "It was a stupid trick! It's not my fault he was stupid enough to listen!"
"You're the one who picked on him! You convinced him to go!"
Midnight slashed the air with her claws. "Oh, oh! Are we going there? How about we tell everyone that the real reason Sobble went was because of Chespin here and his stupid optimism! Let's talk about the pep talk he gave him that almost got him killed!"
Pineno reeled back. The crowd around them seemed tense.
"Yeah! Exactly! If we want to point fingers, it's his fault!" Midnight declared. "Now you understand why no one else wants to help that sad case over there? Because everyone knows it's not worth the time! A crybaby like him was asking for it! He has no business here either! None of you do! You being here is a mockery of what this place stands for! Why did they accept any of you?! It's not right! It was never right!"
Her voice rang in the air. She held her claw high, fighting to catch her breath.
Krista searched her face for any sort of play. The anger there was true. Her ragged breathing, the restraint to attack, and the way her mouth twitched into a snarl…she was truly furious for a reason Krista couldn't understand.
There was a speck out of place.
Her muzzle. It was smeared in a strange lavender…but it was glossy, as if…
Magma grabbed her arm. "Midnight. We should go."
Midnight jerked her arm back with a snapping hiss. "Don't touch me!"
"Midnight…Midnight please. You can't stay here. Come on!" Axe begged.
Silver smeared on her arm. Midnight clenched it with her claws in an instant. She stepped back as her breathing grew more heavy.
Something's wrong.
"Your body…" Krista whispered.
Midnight recoiled back, as if the words stabbed her. In an instant, her fury grew as she hissed, then screamed. She stormed forward. Voices flooded the room. Krista fell back, started.
Midnight's claws were like daggers.
And they would tear her open in one blow.
"Back off!" Pineno struck the table's surface, and it snapped in half. Trays of food slid towards the center as Midnight stumbled back and fell off the edge towards Axe. The two members of Team Slasher crashed on the ground. Pokémon scattered out the way as berries bounced and rolled across the ground. A bowl of water toppled over, spilling the liquid that was smeared with dark ink.
Silence overtook the entire room. Countless eyes were glued on the silver-smeared Sneasel that lay paralyzed on the ground. Water dripped from her body, warping the deep blue to silver, and the sheen of a healthy coat.
No one said a word.
Her purple-tipped claws trembled in front of her face with a mix of rage and fear. All eyes were on her…
…she looked as if she was on the verge of tears.
"Quit staring…at me…!" Her wild eyes shifted as her voice trembled with blind rage. "You're the real freaks…! Freaks… Freaks! All of you! Traitors! Beasts! Corrupted things! You don't belong here!"
"Come on." Axe pulled Midnight to her feet. More of the dark paint smeared on his claws. "Come on, Midnight… We need to—"
"Stop touching me!" Midnight hissed.
But Axe didn't let go. Magma grabbed her other arm, and they fought against her thrashing.
"Freaks! Freaks!" Midnight was being dragged back by Ax and Magma and she continued her chant. "A team of freaks! You don't belong here! You don't belong here! Let go of me! LET GOOOO-OOOO! RAAAAAGH!"
She was dragged into a hall, where her screams bounced off the walls.
Krista couldn't find any words to say. She looked at the gathered crowd, but they all averted their gaze. And slowly, one by one, they left the trio of children to themselves.
The heavy weight of guilt crushed her. But…she didn't do anything wrong, did she?
"What…what just happened…?" Pineno muttered.
Krista turned back, just as clueless. But, she realized he wasn't referring to Midnight's outburst.
He was looking at his paws. His face had gone pale.
Krista felt a hurried tap on her shoulder. She turned to Tidal, whose terrified eyes were fixed on something else.
Following his gaze, she felt herself freeze.
Howler's eyes were a blazing fire.
"The Pinnacle. Now."
… … …
The gentle xylophone-like melody sounded from the majestic Milotic statue as the water droplets fell from above. Water poured from its mouth to the little pond below. It didn't look much different from last time. The soothing atmosphere was all the same.
The only difference was who was standing before the fountain. It was Glider, who turned the moment he heard them. He appeared somewhat pleased with their presence until he saw Howler. Startled, he almost stumbled backwards inside the pond, but stomped his feet to catch his balance.
"Oh—hey…uh… Nice to see you again Team Retribute and…Sobble…?" Glider tilted his head.
"N-nice to…meet you…?" Tidal greeted back.
Krista felt Howler nudging her forward. She picked up her pace, seeing that Tidal and Pineno were given the same treatment. "H-hey! We are already here! You don't have to—"
"Hush!" Howler's mighty bark made the entire room jump. "Drink."
Pineno frowned. "But—"
"Drink!"
There were no more rebuttals.
Glider stepped aside to give room for the children to approach the fountain. Tidal was first to dip his head, taking a long sip from the surface of the pond. Pineno was second, lapping the water and disturbing the perfectly rippling surface.
Disgusted, Krista shook her head and stepped back. She thought she was getting better at it, but between the fish and the countless mouths that touched the water, she couldn't stomach it.
"Grove told me you would be difficult," Howler said, his voice a softer tone. "She was once."
"She…was?"
"If it brings you comfort…"
Howler led Krista to the other side of the pond. There were no fish present there due to the amount of water plants that occupied the space. The water was just as clear.
"She said the water is cleanest here. I see no difference, but if the sight of fish disturbs you, then so be it. It matters little to me. You need to drink. You were excused before, but it will not happen again."
"But…why? Why do I have to—"
Howler huffed. It was clear he wouldn't be taking any questions.
Krista sighed and knelt down. The water was as clear as clear could be, despite the river grass being so potent. If Dusk said it was like a filter, then it should be safe. The food and water she had before didn't make her ill yet. The last thing she wanted to do was insult the entire corporation for refusing to do some custom she didn't quite understand.
Her face was a whisker away from touching the surface. A perfect replica of a Meowth stared back at her. There was no scent in the water, save the plant life. It was strange. She thought wild water would at least smell like mud…or was it truly that clean? How was that possible?
(Oh…well. Here goes…)
She squeezed her eyes shut and lowered her head. As soon as she felt the water touching her mouth, she had to anchor herself. There was, surprisingly, no odd taste to the water. She only took a couple sips before she pulled back. That was more than enough.
"Strange feline," Howler commented. "To drink without a tongue. But fine, it's been done."
"That's it?" Krista stood and looked at her paws. "I thought there would be some change or something."
Howler nudged her to rejoin the others. "Now you listen. Close your eyes. Welcome the melodies."
They stood around in silence, taking in the soft music. The Magikarp and Feebas inhabiting the pond splashed with gentle motions.
Krista closed her eyes and soaked in the melodies. There was nothing to see beyond her eyelids. She could only imagine the statue as she listened to its music. For what reason she needed to remain still didn't make much sense to her—
She saw it.
A vision.
The crystal-filled pond of Luminous Burrow, and its countless beautiful colors. She thought she had forgotten what it looked like already, but it was just as vivid as she remembered it. Every single crystal, down to the tiniest of fragments, were exactly where they were before. The depths of the water, and how the sunlight shone through the surface, it was accurate and true.
But why? Why was she seeing this?
It almost bugged her for some reason. Again, it was just out of reach, behind a wall she couldn't see or feel in her mind. But it was there, dormant somewhere…
"What you see…is what brings you joy and serenity," Howler said, his powerful voice somehow not breaking Krista's focus. "From across the sea and through the land, the rivers are all connected. The rivers tell stories. The rivers remember everything. What you've seen in the land, it pulls from your subconscious. It presents it to you in a perfect, soothing image. It helps you remember your purpose, or what it means to keep thriving."
(What I am seeing is…my purpose?) Krista wondered. (But what does the spring water have to do with anything? Am I supposed to evolve? Orbeetle said it was impossible…)
"Open your eyes. There is no reason to linger a moment longer."
Krista was pulled back to the pinnacle. The experience was…strange. She glanced at Pineno, who appeared speechless. Tidal was not fazed, probably because he experienced it before.
"Now that we stand in a better headspace…speak of what happened." Howler headed towards the fountain. He nudged Glider to join the others. "Go. Speak."
"Yeah…" Glider lowered his head. "I messed up."
"Huh?" Krista frowned.
"I kinda…told the story about what happened when we encountered Skullzer," Glider explained. "Told them about how he controlled Master Gyra, and how you, Meowth, fended off against her. And…well…"
"You…who did you tell this story to?"
"Anyone who could hear me."
"Huh."
That explained the cafeteria.
What was far more strange, was how the answer didn't phase her. What Glider did was careless, incredibly careless in many ways. The anger Krista would have felt didn't make any effort to surface.
It was…strange.
"Anger is an emotion unachievable here," Howler said. "Makes it easier for you to think…to communicate without hostility. That is what the water does."
(So that's why Dusk was able to tell me his story…) Krista was impressed. How could the pond have an effect like that?
Still…even with her anger subsided, her disappointment was still there.
"Why would you tell everyone what happened?" Krista asked Glider. "Don't you realize how bad of an idea that was?"
"Well…yeah. Now I do," Glider held up a single pincher. "But! I didn't say a word about the Chespin or his blood-relation! I swear! I made sure I didn't even give a hint about it! I knew…I knew it was a sensitive thing and all, especially after what happened in the big city. But I guess I shoulda asked before talkin' about everythin' else…"
"What…? What about the spiny-nut child?" Howler asked.
Of course! Howler had no idea!
"Oops…" Glider shrunk. "I thought the associates already knew about this… Geh-heh-heh…"
"Knew about what? Speak."
"The Headmaster said that I shouldn't just tell anyone," Pineno muttered. "But Vigor already knows…"
"That was…also my bad," Glider said.
Pineno frowned. "I guess if she knows…it would only be fair for you to know too. I mean…you are The Headmaster's right-hand, right?"
Howler said nothing, but curiosity was plain on his face.
Pineno took a deep breath, steeling himself for what he was about to say. "See…the thing is… The Chesnaught called Zypher…he's my dad."
Howler looked puzzled. "The Hammer Arm…is your father….? But he only has four offspring…if I recall. I've only seen four."
Tidal hung his head. "That's what I thought…until we met Skullzer."
Pineno sighed. It was a reaction he couldn't get used to. "I hatched…not long after my mama had her accident—"
Howler moved forward and sniffed at him. Pineno flinched under Howler's breath. It was brief, thankfully, as he stepped back. Howler's face changed, as if he saw at a ghost.
"It's…true. I thought there was familiarity…but I brushed it aside… I believed I was overthinking. I can't believe it."
"Yeah. I understand," Pineno sighed.
"Hm…now I understand The Headmaster's decision."
"You do?"
"I will speak nothing of this, and I will assure Vigor keeps her lips sealed. Dusk cannot know of this."
Pineno gave Howler a stunned look. "What? Why?"
Krista was just as surprised. Wasn't he their mentor? It was only to be expected for him to be told eventually, but now they had to hide it from him? From someone they saw just about every passing day?
"I understand your confusion, so allow me to explain," Howler said. "His hatred towards The Corruption is…so incredibly vexing. I can expect that at least one of you know why."
"His brothers," Krista realized. "They got pulled into the sky-rifts…"
"Dusk has brothers?" Pineno was even more lost.
"I'll tell you about it later," Krista promised.
"Wait!" Glider gasped. "Brothers?! I knew Dusk was an Explorer but—"
BANG!
The loud sound bellowed from the other side of the door. It even made Howler jump.
"What in the—"
"Wh-what was that?!" Pineno shouted.
The door opened, and Vigor stood at the other end. She pressed her bandaged hand against the frame, wheezing. Her face was pale as she stared at the ground…it was a look that sent chills.
"Whoa. Ms. Vigor…are you okay?" Pineno asked.
"It's…i-it's…!" Vigor lowered her body, still out of breath.
"What is it?" Howler stepped forward, alert. "Speak carefully, if you can."
"It's…it's Skullzer!" Vigor blurted out. The words shot a wave of shock through them. She continued before they could say a word. "He's…he's…Skullzer! He's been captured!"
"WHAT?!" Everyone's voices rang in sync.
"Wh—really?!" Pineno gasped. "But how?! I thought they said it wasn't possible!"
"I believed so too…but he was found…and he's in a bind—"
"Where are they holding him? It can't be here, can it?" Krista asked, frantic.
"No. No, they would never," Vigor wheezed. "He's…he's going to be carted to the city jail. He's down Riverside Path, east, not far from here. The police are there. The Chief…wants to speak…"
"They need me there," Howler announced. He looked back. "Children. You will need to come along."
Krista froze. "Huh?! Wh-why?"
"You were responsible for his capture. The chief would wish to see everyone involved."
"I…I can't…" Pineno took a step back, a paw pressed against his back.
"I will make an exception of you. You may remain here. But your friend must go. You too, Fly-scorpion. Water-lizard."
"Y-yes sir!" Tidal nodded, although he was shaking.
Glider opened his mouth to oppose, but one look at Pineno, and he nodded. "Yeah. Gotcha."
Krista felt her stomach churn. Why was she so nervous? If the Houndoom was tied up, it meant he couldn't move. But still, she was hoping she wouldn't see his face anymore after his defeat.
She hoped this would be the last time.
Riverside Path: Eastern Road
Vigor wasn't kidding.
Skullzer truly was at their mercy.
The road was crowded with the large number of Pokémon present. What was most prominent were the vast number of Magnemite floating around in the air.
Krista held her breath. She couldn't count them all.
There was a swarm of them.
Their metallic bodies reflected the noon-high sunlight, decorating the ground with dancing strips of light. The air buzzed as small bolts of lightning crackled around them in a restless rhythm. Their eyes were all fixed on the same spot on the ground.
Paces ahead, Frost stood with his arms crossed over his chest. As soon as he saw Howler and Vigor arrive with the children, he filled them in. "It's to be assumed his minions couldn't carry him afar. Wherever they wanted to go, it was impossible to reach. It's speculated they likely took shelter until he came to, and he fled under the cover of the night. A wise thing to do, until you consider the flaw in his plan."
Boomer crackled as he slammed his red claws down against a resisting head. The left side was clumsily wrapped in a bandage, likely from the hurried efforts of the many Starly.
Skullzer was pinned on the ground, his ankles tied by ropes and his snout muzzled. He was helpless there, only able to muster a glare at the Noivern.
"Ye 'lil birds were nothin' more than a pesky barricade! Really thought you could run away, eh? Keh-keh!" A tongue swept across Boomer's mouth, which parted to a grin.
Krista couldn't believe what was before her. It was really him. To see him so defeated was surreal, almost like a dream, somehow.
But it was real. The bandages appeared as if they desperately needed to be changed, soaked red in many places. Both horns were broken. The one he previously had left, was gone to the nub. Now that Krista had a closer look, the missing patches of fur on his body were a lot worse than she thought.
All of that…from a single hyper beam.
She shuddered at the thought of how her own body would take it.
A low cluster of beeping swelled in the air. It came from a Magnezone, who hovered next to Frost. Krista could only assume it was the leader of the swarm. Who also stood next to the Pokémon was a large, strange canine Krista had never seen before. Its large and stocky body and the long deep-brown fur gave an impression of it being almost impossible to knock down.
"Who are they?" Krista asked.
"Officer Magnezone and Chief Mabosstiff," Vigor answered. "You would usually see Magnezone during outlaw arrests…but this is the first time I've seen the chief this close."
"Huh?!"
"He usually doesn't come out into the field to see criminals unless there are cases like these. I guess…he needs to see them with his own two eyes to believe it. I don't blame him."
The chief must had heard them, because he looked back and nodded. He approached the group with a dip of his head. He spoke through a mix between a bark and a growl, as many canines did. "Howler. Vigor. It is pleasant to see you both. Gruff!"
"Same goes to you, sir," Vigor returned the gesture.
"I see you remain in good health," Howler said.
"Retirement continues to elude me, it seems," Mabosstiff said. "The moment I consider it, I stumble across a sight like this! It seems Xerneas is trying to tell me something."
His gaze shifted towards the children.
"Hmmm…I'm assuming these are our witnesses…" The large canine stepped closer. His nostrils flared as he took a sniff.
Krista had to fight the urge to step back. She hated how her body reacted towards canines sometimes. It didn't help much that he was taller than Dusk—he looked as if he could knock him over with a single paw strike.
Once the chief was done with his observation, he stepped back. "We never imagined a few children would give us the push we need to capture someone so vile. Gruff! I am thoroughly impressed! We will send the bounty to you."
"B-b-bounty?!" Krista shouted.
Magnezone hovered over, its magnets spinning. "Zzzt! Yes! Skullzer is an S-rank outlaw! He has been eluding us for years! Zzzt! For a fire Pokémon to flee across the sea, it is quite an impressive feat! Zzzt!"
Magnezone had a strange but loud robotic voice. It sounded as if it was spoken from a metal chamber of some sort…from how hollow it was. The buzzing behind every syllable made Krista feel jumpy. Krista didn't think such a voice was possible, just when she thought she heard everything.
"Only S-rank?" Howler frowned at the concept.
"Zzzt! Skullzer is more of a runner than a fighter! Zzzt! Considering he had trouble fighting against the Central associates, he was not deemed as a major threat compared to some of his allies! Zzzt!"
"Not a major threat, and yet he Blighted the Elder of our rivers," Howler said.
The chief sighed. "I understand your frustrations, Howler. Which is why we are reviewing every profile we have on every confirmed Sorcerer so far. Skullzer revealing his trump card has set back everything we thought we knew about them. The last thing we would want is to send a Silver-rank team against a criminal who is among the star-ratings."
(Star-ratings?) Krista was trying to keep up with the conversation, but not much was making sense. All she could understand was that Skullzer was…ranked lower than he should be? They ranked criminals? It almost sounded silly, but she was sure there was a similar concept in her human world. Maybe not by letters but…
"Hrrmph." The chief shook his head. "Now we just need to worry about those Starly…"
Krista could see how exhausted Skullzer looked in the binds. There wasn't any sign of relief from him. "Actually…I don't think we have to worry about any scouts for a while."
"Hm?"
"Skullzer is strong…but he's not as strong as he wants us to think he is. Back at Mount Ember, he didn't make a move to fight until all of his Starly were down. And if he really wanted to get rid of Pineno, why didn't he attack us along with Gyra, when she was under his control?"
"That makes sense," Glider agreed. "He really could have taken us out if he teamed up with her."
"He already knew he stood no chance against me," Vigor said. "He had the nerve to call poor Gyra his Champion."
The chief nodded. "Gruff! Good statements indeed, Meowth. What are you implying?"
"I don't think Skullzer can't puppet someone and battle at the same time," Krista answered.
"Hm?" Frost perked up. "Indeed. I've noticed. Back when we fought, there was hesitation to do battle. But once his decision was made, his many scouts no longer had the energy to do as much as stand. A strange ordeal at the time, but now, it makes perfect sense."
"Oh yeah!" Tidal gasped. "N-no matter how many times we knocked down the Starly, they always got back up! I-I knew it was because of his sorcery, but I didn't think of why he didn't battle until Mr. Frost showed up! I-it's like…he needs to focus!"
"That's why soon as he lost consciousness, Gyra started to rampage," Krista said. "She was no longer under his control."
Frost huffed. "So a neophyte, is he?"
"Geh!" Glider stuck out his tongue as he pointed a pincher towards the Houndoom. "We have you figured out, you dumb dog! You are powerless now! Don't feel good when it's you, huh? Geh-heh-heh! That's what you get, for messin' with Master Gyra!"
Skullzer said nothing. Even his glare lacked energy.
Glider lowered his arm, disappointed. "Geez. Not gonna say nothin'? I didn't think a defeated Sorcerer would be so borin'…"
"Stop toyin' with him," Vigor warned.
"Aw…"
"I wouldn't be so sure about that." Frost's tone was as if he just remembered something himself.
"What? What is it?" Glider asked.
"While his…inability to control his scouts rings true, we have to remember…and bring this to question; Who supplies the avians to him? I'm sure you've been made aware that this hound doesn't operate alone."
Krista remembered…what Vigor said. "Armora…right?"
Frost nodded. Vigor crossed her arms.
"Ah. How could I let that slip my mind?" Vigor said. "The only difference is, the Corviknight doesn't like to rely on others too much. She has this whole twisted idea of honor. Even if we do see the Starly, she's not the sort to hunt you down like the Houndoom. She'll let you see her."
It…didn't make Krista feel any better.
Frost nodded. "Regardless….this is merely the beginning. This is what you are being trained for, is it not? Fret no more, little one. We will mold you to the best of our abilities. They will not obtain their goals so easily."
Krista could only hope that was true.
Chief Mabosstiff stood tall as his tail started to wag. "Gruff! And here they are!"
Krista heard the clacking down the road. There were a pair of Mudstale pulling what appeared to be a sturdy cage of some sort. They stopped right beside Boomer, who cackled at the sight.
"'Ye see that, doggy? Yer goin' to yer new home!" Boomer chuckled. "Lucky, ain't ya? Too useful to throw away! Keh-keh!"
The structure of the mobile cell was perhaps the most perfect build Krista had seen. It was a large rocky box, with only a single barred window that allowed a view of the inside. From what Krista could make out, it didn't look comfortable. She wasn't sure if it was supposed to be. Even the door was made of solid stone. The entire build had to be terribly heavy, but the pair of Mudstale pulling it made it look lightweight.
From the way it was built, it reminded Krista of a chimney. Was it to keep the flames out? It had to be fire-proof. She wondered if there were other structures for different kinds of Pokémon…
The Magnemite swept down and surrounded Skullzer as Boomer forced him to his feet. Skullzer didn't resist. He made his awkward waddle towards the carriage. Boomer boosted him inside, and the door was closed and locked.
Officer Magnezone turned to face the children once more. "Zzzt! The Houndoom called Skullzer has been put in custody at last! Zzzt! Once again, we must thank you for your cooperation! Zzzt!"
Krista wanted to smile. She truly did…but it didn't feel as if she accomplished anything. None of what unfolded before her…really sunk in yet.
Still, she gave Magnezone a nod.
The officer turned back to the mobile cell. "Zzzt! Now, it will be a long ride! Get comfortable! Zzzt!"
Skullzer turned his head away. Magnezone floated over to the Mudstale, who were more than ready to go.
"Ah-hah. I figured I would make it just in time to see his departure," a voice said.
Everyone turned around.
Slowking arrived with his scepter in hand, and the crowd cleared a path for him. He stood in front of the mobile cell, tapping the bars with the top of his scepter.
Skullzer lifted his head. The moment he saw him, he rested on his paws.
"Ah, I expect you to be cooperative," Slowking said. "You're going to be asked plenty of questions. There's no point in trying to resist. You may be a creature of darkness, but there are always ways to unlock a mind as dark as yours."
Skullzer closed his eyes.
Slowking turned to address everyone. "It is a relief to finally have him detained. Although I can only imagine not everyone will be happy about this outcome."
"This outcome?" Krista frowned.
"Yes, yes. I'm sure…you are already aware of what I'm concerned about. But it matters very little. Skullzer will be going far away. We won't have to worry about him being a bother here anymore."
Slowking tapped the bars, and the Mudstale started to move.
"Ah-hah-hah-hah…"
The low chuckle from Skullzer halted all activity.
Krista didn't think he was capable of laughter.
"Hm? What's so amusing about your position?" Slowking asked him. "Have some sort of backup plan, don't you?"
"…No. None of the sort." Skullzer's voice was strained from exhaustion, but there was still the slightest tone of amusement. "They won't come for me. I will disappear either way…"
Krista was stunned. "They are just going to abandon you?"
"I have failed a third time. I no longer exist in their eyes… An outcome I should have anticipated…but refused to accept…"
(Skullzer's allies…they don't care that he's been captured? Slowking made him sound like he was very important to them, so why wouldn't they make any attempt to free him?)
Krista tried to make sense of it, but she only came to a wall.
What were they going to do with him? She was too scared to ask.
"Keep a close eye on him," Slowking ordered. He tapped the bars again before he walked away.
Skullzer lifted his head, his words a deep growl. "You believed to have been victorious…but that fantasy will soon come crumbling beneath your feet."
"Many have tried. They all failed," Slowking said, without turning back. "You will be no different."
He waved a claw.
"Take him."
The cart started to move.
"One day, you will awaken, buried deep under the rubble of your own reality," Skullzer said. "Then, you will realize too late that you've dug your own grave. You will regret this, Slacker."
Slowking stopped.
Everyone stopped moving, silent.
The air felt like ice.
Her mind spiraled, reaching for threads of...something solid...but there was no anchor. The icy needles seeped into her bones.
(What...is this feeling...?) Krista felt the claws of her feet sinking into the earth. (The...The Headmaster... It's... coming from him...!)
It was different. Vastly different from what she felt before.
It was nothing like the intimidating atmosphere she felt between Dusk and Frost. That wild presence...no...it was nothing like that.
What Krista felt coursing through her nerves made her body want to fold to its will. To let it pass...so it wouldn't kill her.
(He... didn't even do anything...)
(This...this is...)
She could see it...no. Her spiraling mind imagined it.
Blue energy flowed through the king's body like water...from the tip of his crown, to the ground where he stood.
(If he really wanted to...)
(He could destroy Skullzer in one blow...)
Just as the thought crossed her mind...the energy she sensed had vanished. She could breathe again.
All there was left were mere threads...threads that vanished like smoke in the air.
Slowking turned his body around, his dark eyes glowing a bright light-blue.
"I know…you do not fear your own undoing…but don't tempt me to make you desire it."
His voice.
The cold tone was nothing Krista ever heard from him before.
"I've kept your location disclosed from my affiliate. You don't want him to be here."
Skullzer laughed.
It was a bone-chilling laugh. One that made Krista's fur stand on end.
"Fine by me…" Skullzer grunted as he pushed his body off the ground. He stood, slanted and weak, but he wore a maddening grin. "Send the message to that broken leader. Tell him to wake up. Team Poochy had disbanded a long time ago. I can care less about his response. By the time he reaches me, I'll already be gone. Hahahahaha…"
He threw his head back, his fangs parting into a desperate grin. His broken voice wavered as he continued.
"Ignorance! The Mightyena's the only one who sees the truth! In time, you will see…you will see I was right! But don't bother to visit my resting place, I'll be seeing all of you in the badlands! HAHAHAHAHA! AHAHAHAHAH!"
Krista couldn't comprehend it.
(This Houndoom doesn't fear him. He fears nothing...)
Then...it clicked.
(He fears nothing... because he knows he's going to face something...far worse than this.)
(What is this place...? This region...? This country...?)
(Why am I...)
A hand touched Krista's paws. She realized just how frozen she was as she met Vigor's sad gaze.
"Let's go home," she said.
No. It wasn't a sad gaze.
Vigor felt it too...and there were remnants of fear in her eyes.
Krista didn't imagine it at all.
The group of Pokémon turned and left. The Mudstale pulled the mobile cell along as the swarm of Magnemite followed. Boomer crawled behind them before he broke into a sprint for the sky. He ascended high, likely to monitor the transfer from above.
Skullzer's mad laughter rang in Krista's head for the rest of the trip back home
… … …
"What are they going to do with him?" Krista asked.
They stood by the registration desk. Grove looked through the papers she was given from Officer Magnezone. The Headmaster, Howler, and Frost went to the chamber to have a private discussion. Boomer retreated to his room for a well-earned rest. Everyone else had gathered around, listening.
"Well, he's going to be locked up pretty good," Vigor said. "And I'm quite sure he's gonna be asked a lot of questions. What they will do with him afterwards, we don't know."
(You're lying.) Krista already had an idea, if Skullzer was telling the truth.
She only got a glimpse of Slowking's power...and...
"The king is cruel."
Skullzer's words bounced in her head. Krista found it easy to brush aside before...but now...
No. It's impossible...
How can a clumsy and careless king...have so much malice hidden away? For what reason?
What could The Sorcerers have done to him...?
She didn't want to dwell on it too much. She turned her focus back to the associates, just to keep her mind calm.
"But, we have obtained his artifact." Frost held the collar high above their heads. "No one he can puppet anytime soon—"
"Let me see that." Grove's vine snatched it from Frost's hands. He almost protested, but Grove was already studying it. "Yes…yes. This is good. I'm going to need to do some deep research on this…to understand its properties."
Pineno was stunned to hear all of this. "So, he's gone? He won't hurt anyone anymore?"
"No. A criminal like that…I doubt he'll see freedom anytime soon," Grove said. "You can rest easy, Pineno. No more being hunted."
Pineno released a huge breath as he sank to the ground.
Krista felt like she could breathe easy again. How Pineno was feeling, she could only imagine. They could live on without worrying about a Houndoom constantly being on their tail.
But he wasn't the only one. There were others, some she couldn't remember the names of. But one stood out, one that sounded more important than Armora's.
Who was Knight? Was he anything like Skullzer? All Krista could do was hope that she wouldn't see this "Knight". She didn't want to find out how he got his nickname.
Krista decided to distract herself with a different concern before she became too unnerved. "Glider. Do you have anywhere to go?"
Glider shrugged. "Nah. Not really. Where I wanted to go fell apart, and I've been told I am not allowed to go back there anytime soon. So I guess…I gotta find a new spot. Don't worry. I'll figure it out."
"We could house you in the residential area for some time," Frost said. "Until you find your footing."
Glider blinked. "Really? You could do that?"
"You aren't the only one here who is lost with nowhere to go," Vigor said. "First, you'll be tested. Your stay may be temporary. It all depends on what happens down the road."
"That's fine by me," Glider said. "It's better than bein' left out in the open."
"Th-that's great!" Tidal smiled. "Y-you are welcomed here, Gligar!"
"You can call me Glider. And uh…thanks…uh…"
"Tidal!"
"Yeah. Nice to meet ya."
With Glider safe, it seemed the day was turning out better with every new news.
But Pineno didn't appear pleased with anything. There wasn't the slightest smile on his face.
"Pineno?" Krista almost placed a hand on his shoulder, but she wasn't so sure…
"I know I should be celebrating…but I don't know how to take this," Pineno answered. "It feels like I just stood aside. I was helpless. I couldn't do anything. I told myself I would get stronger before I saw him again but…nothing changed…!"
"Don't say that," Krista said. "It wasn't your fault."
"I know but…" Pineno looked at his paws. "He was so determined to come after me. Usually someone would give up after a while, but he never did. What if Skullzer was right…? What if I really don't belong here? What if I really am a freak?"
Krista frowned. She hated to see him treating himself so harshly. But if she was in his position, she was sure she would have done the same. She didn't want to dismiss his feelings when they were true.
She instead tried to lift his spirits the best way she could. She had to nudge him towards the positives.
"There is nothing wrong with you, Pineno. You're just…very strong. And maybe you just don't know how to handle all of that power yet. Isn't that why the Headmaster spoke to you?"
Pineno avoided her eyes. "You were scared, weren't you?"
Krista fell silent.
"You're not saying anything, so it's true. I tried to hurt you, didn't I?"
"Pineno…"
"So he was right. He and Midnight. Maybe that's why Mama always hid me. Maybe that's why my siblings never loved me. Maybe that's why Skullzer tried to get rid of me—I really am a danger to this world, aren't I? For as long as I stay, I'm just going to keep hurting others and—"
"You said your father sent you here for a reason, didn't he?" Krista gently reminded him. "If he really saw you as a danger, I don't think he would have let you come here. You said it before! He sees good in you! Don't tell me you don't believe that."
"I…well." Pineno stammered. "It's been so long since I've last seen my dad. What if…he changes his mind?"
"He wouldn't just give up on you, would he? After all the things he did for you?"
"No. No, I don't think so…"
"And then there are Pokémon like Howler and Boomer working here, and they both had different lives once. This place is supposed to help Pokémon, right? I mean, with a Pokémon that has a title like Headmaster, I'm sure he's helping all sorts of Pokémon who don't understand their own power!"
Pineno rubbed his arm. He didn't look so sure, but he seemed to have calmed down.
"Skullzer doesn't know you. He's wrong about you. And now, he can't hurt you anymore. If more Sorcerers come, well, that's going to be their biggest mistake. We know a lot of strong Pokémon who will fight for you. And I'm never going to leave you. We are going to face the world together, just as you said."
"Krista…" Pineno whispered.
"Yeah. You're a strong kid to make it this far, you know that?" Glider added. "You even put up with me! That showed me just how tough you really are when others doubt you. Maybe that Houndoom saw you as trouble, but you ain't nothin' like that, you get me?"
"I don't know what horrible things he told you, but I want you to know that I am glad you came here, dear," Vigor said. "And if you ever need any help, don't you be afraid to give us a holler. We got your back, alright?"
"G-guys…" Pineno whispered.
"You are the kindest Pokémon I've met," Krista said. "You went out of your way to lie just to help me. You risked everything to help Tidal, you even stood up for us when you didn't have to."
"Y-you inspired me…to become brave like you," Tidal said. "I never…really got to thank you for that…"
"See? You did a lot of great things," Krista said. "If that doesn't make you a good Pokémon, then…"
Pineno broke.
He collapsed on the ground and shuddered as he curled himself into a ball. A small whimper escaped him before he choked out a wail.
Krista stood, almost frozen. A part of her was relieved that he was finally letting go of all the emotions he had been holding back. But it also hurt. As the sounds of his sobbing rang in the room, she felt warmth flooding her eyes. And by just blinking, her vision was obscured by her own tears.
From the corner of her eyes, she could see Grove casting her a sympathetic look. There was a small wave of a vine, a silent signal for her to get closer.
Krista couldn't find the words she wanted to comfort him. She could only do the next best thing.
She got down on her knees and pulled him into an embrace, one he accepted in an instant. His warm tears soaked her fur, but it didn't matter.
He was free.
- That Night… —
Associates' Chamber
Damp grass and earthy scents, the air was warm and crisp. Trickling water rippled into a small stream. With every breath she took, she sought tranquility.
(I understand…trust me. I understand how it feels…)
But, it never came.
There was a soft knock on the door.
Opening her eyes, Grove was met with the familiar sights of mountainous greenery. In the large space—her space—she could run for as long as her heart desired. But not a single stone was disturbed. The grass was not churned. From the moment she arrived, she stood in silence, reflecting, pondering.
There was only one individual who would seek her audience during her time of solitude.
"You may enter."
What was a large cluster of moss shifted, breaking the illusion as it revealed the hall behind it.
Standing there was Dusk. With a revered bow of his head, he entered, and the door was sealed behind him. After taking a cautious glance around the room, he chose his seat next to Grove. He was small next to her, but he never minded anyone towering over him.
(He doesn't know yet.)
Grove knew he was far too calm and composed at the moment. For how long the news of Skullzer's capture would be withheld from him, she wasn't sure. It wasn't her place to tell him.
But what he did know didn't surprise her.
"There's talk in the halls…that Team Retribute humiliated him," Dusk said. "Know anything about that?"
Grow casted him a concerned look.
"I promise, my mind is sound," Dusk said. "I made sure to apologize to Vigor. She said she understood…but it still wrecks me. Right in front of the children too…they didn't need to see that."
Grove settled a vine on his hung head. Dusk closed his eyes, accepting it.
"I don't know what came over me," he said. "But the moment I saw their faces, I knew they saw him again. And I…got scared. Then the thoughts came; What if he tossed them to the sky-rifts like he did to my brothers? What if he struck one of them down? What if he Blighted them? I…I lost it. I completely lost it. I didn't want to fail my students…not again. But I'm sure I scared them away. If they want to switch mentors, then I understand—"
"Dusk. Please…stop beating yourself up," Grove said. "You were angry because you were worried."
He looked at her. "I was angry and completely lost my head. Don't sugarcoat it."
Grove sighed.
"Thank you for knocking some sense into me. I really needed that."
"Of course," Grove said. "I think it's about time you request for a battle challenge. When was the last time you let yourself go?"
"Huh…it feels like…" Dusk's face twisted. "Hrrm… About two months?"
"Too long. You have all this energy and you don't know what to do with it. You're challenging Howler tonight."
Dusk recoiled back. "Eh—what?! Howler?! Why would—"
"He will understand. The dojo will do you no good. You need someone who can keep up with your strength. Maybe it will help you clear your mind. You've been troubled these past few weeks. Don't lie to me."
"Impossible. You can always tell regardless."
"Hm."
"But alright. If that is what you desire for me to do, then I will see to it," Dusk promised. "After all, you have a good point. A Pokémon who goes too long without a proper battle becomes a problem. Maybe that's what it is…yeah. And it's been a while since Howler battled too. What about you?"
"I'm too old for these things," Grove answered.
"Nonsense. The elders are just as strong as the young," Dusk chuckled. "Have you seen the injuries Vigor had?"
"I don't do battle."
"Oh…oh alright."
They sat in silence for a while, watching the trickling stream.
"From what I've been told," Grove said. "you've trained them well. Krista turned the hyper beam against him."
It took a few seconds for Dusk to grasp the context of her words. A small smile formed on his face. "Huh. So she did. But she couldn't have learned it if I didn't learn from you."
Grove huffed. "Alright, alright. I wasn't looking for any credit."
"But who taught me how to fight as an individual? No one ever expects it from a Pokémon who usually thrives in numbers. It's probably why Skullzer was caught off-guard. Heh. Not bad."
A chuckle escaped Dusk.
"He's been weakened. Makes looking for him a lot easier."
Grove felt the dread in her heart, but she didn't let it show on her face. Being a Gogoat meant that she was just as good at hiding emotions as she was with sensing them. It was a quirk that took some time to get used to.
And at that very moment, she had to assure her thoughts weren't worn on her face. She understood Dusk's desire to bring Skullzer to justice, but the way he wanted it done concerned her. Simply locking him away would never satisfy him. His fury reminded her of that.
With every utterance of a dangerous outlaw, Dusk was always the first to report. He would always hope the Houndoom would show up, just so he would have the opportunity to destroy him. Grove understood he was a creature of darkness. Their minds were always twisted and cruel, but sometimes, the thoughts he spoke aloud made her fear him. His grief, his regrets, his rage…they had not settled for several years. If anything, those feelings were getting worse.
The downside of being a Gogoat. It made her extremely sensitive to the emotions around her. It wasn't to the same intensity as what would be expected from a Ralts, or a Riolu, but the base was still there. Dusk was all smiles and cheer, but his heart was clouded.
Sometimes, it was almost suffocating.
For how long everyone would keep Skullzer's capture unknown to him, she wasn't sure. She would have to assure that the children would speak nothing of it.
The children…
"Didn't you say you have apprentices, Mightyena?" she reminded him.
Dusk flinched. "Ah. Don't abandon the nickname…you make me nervous when you do that. Alright, alright. I'm not going to do anything reckless. I promise…"
Grove smiled. It was almost forced.
"We will have to find a way to counter embargo, you know," Dusk pointed out. "This is the second time they almost didn't make it out. I wouldn't be able to live with myself if anything happened to them…if that Houndoom…"
His claws sunk into the ground. He took a deep breath.
"I'm fine," he assured. "Those kids just worry me, that's all. I still can't get over it though…turning someone's own spell against them. Krista may not be the best at battling, but her quick thinking is impressive. I could polish it with some more training, although I don't think I can achieve the natural wisdom that she possesses…"
He stopped there. His smile faded.
Grove knew why. It was still difficult for her to accept as well.
"It's been circulating in your mind too, hasn't it?" Dusk asked.
Grove nodded. She allowed herself to relax.
"Are you sure that this is real?"
"I'm positive. Vigor told me that there was another Absol sighting."
"Another one? Oh no… Does this mean it's just going to get worse from here? The Corruption is already spreading. The sky-rifts…one hasn't opened up in a while. But I'm worried that if another one does show, it could be terrible. All that energy being withheld for so long…maybe that's what the Absol was trying to earn us about."
"The Absol never know themselves. All they can do is ask of us to heed to their warnings. All the stars are aligning. I was hoping…that wouldn't be the case, but I can ignore it no longer. The child is here for a reason."
"This isn't the first time," Dusk almost whispered. "Humans always come to us during times of peril. They've done good for us despite their circumstances. It will be the same here as well—"
"No one else can know," Grove said.
"What?" Dusk gave her a strange look. "But why? It will bring a positive beacon this corporation will need. Everyone will be excited. This could be the answer we are looking for!"
"They can't know," Grove said again, her tone more firm. "The poor child is already lost. If she takes a step out of her room, only to be flocked by a crowd, how'd you think she'll take it? How'd you think he would take it?"
"You…want me to say nothing is what you're telling me," Dusk said. "You confirm your thoughts to me, because you know they are secure with me."
Grove nodded.
Dusk frowned. "Even as the skies become angrier by the day? What if she's the only one who can quell them?"
"We don't know that yet," Grove said.
"She has to be the one! The day she and Pineno arrived here was not long after the storm! It can't be a coincidence this time! I've seen this happen before back home when I was still a pup! I know the patterns! You see it too, I know you do! I know…"
His voice trailed off. He averted his gaze from Grove's hardened glare.
"I'm sorry."
The silence between them only lasted for several seconds.
"How long ago did the thought cross you?" Dusk wondered. "I was skeptical for some time, but Krista's behavior, and the things she said, it kept me pondering. Then that test happened, and I became convinced."
"I've known for some time; Back in the burrow, when she voiced her opinion about rescue work so strongly. You know how humans think. You know one yourself."
"I know two, actually." Dusk smiled.
Grove frowned.
"Well, I guess today makes that three," Dusk said. "You haven't forgotten, have you? I know it's been decades, but you can't forget. You made me swear to you I'll never let you forget."
Grove let out a long sigh. "Yes, Dusk. I have."
"So, what are you going to do? When are you going to talk to her about this? It has to be soon, right? If we wait too long, someone else will know. It would reach everyone's ears. Then what?"
"You have little to worry about. I'll speak to her. I just needed time to think about it."
"But you already spoke to her, haven't you?"
Grove sighed. While she was good at hiding her emotions, he was great with figuring out the way she thinks.
"You didn't tell her," Dusk said.
"I told her about my amnesia," Grove said. "She's not ready for me to confront her, at least not tonight. I would hate to give the poor child a heart attack. Let her rest for a few days. I'll have a proper conversation then."
"Alright…if it's just a few days, I'll leave it alone. But please. Don't linger on it, alright?"
"It's inevitable. The day will come."
Grove stood and crossed the room, her eyes fixed on the ground. She stopped in front of the small pond. Her reflection stared back at her, rippling from the droplets that forever disturbed the surface.
The surface always flowed in such a strange way. Sometimes it was horizontal. Sometimes vertical. It always had a soothing look to it. And occasionally, if she looked at just the right angle…the light would bring subtle iridescence, a sight that always brought a small sense of dread.
A sense of familiarity.
"Do you still get them?" Dusk asked.
Grove didn't look back, but she heard his concern…his sympathy. She didn't need to ask him to clarify. She knew exactly what he was talking about.
"Sometimes," Grove admitted through a sigh. "But I can no longer remember them. But the feeling…it lingers. So I always know that it came. All I can do then…is wait and see."
"Wait and see, huh?" Dusk sighed. He took a seat next to her, his eyes fixed to the pond. "Yeah. The gods have a funny way of doing things…but they would never do anything for no reason. I'm sure…that one day, it will all make sense."
"One day…" Grove agreed.
The pond's rippling surface was ever-changing. The colors…forever shifting…
A familiar sight she had seen a thousand times…
(Until I find the answer… No…)
A familiar sight the child will see a thousand times…
(Until we can find the answer…)
(…We will continue to do our best…as always.)
(That is my promise to you, dear child.)
- End of Arc 1 -
A/N: And that wraps up the end of the first arc!
The first part? The first season? Call it whatever you'd like!
Thank you all so much for reading up to this point! You have no idea how much it means to me! Seriously! Thank you so much!
Arc 2 is still being written. There won't be any updates for some time, but keep an eye out for them in the near future!
Until then, happy reading!
-Espeon804
Status:
*Boss Battle #1: "The Scouts" Staravia and the Starly
*Boss Battle #2: "The Guardians" Orbeetle and the Dottler
*Boss Battle #3 "The Sorcerer" Skullzer and The Scouts
*Boss Battle #4 "The Enclosed Beast" - Alpha Gyarados