Hybrid: Topaz Edition

by LuxBeacon

Our story centers around Topaz Heart, nephew of Volkner. He has set his sights on becoming a gym trainer worthy of the Sinnoh League, but in order to do that he takes risks. So many risks. Assaulting smugglers, beating up gang members, infiltrating terrorist bases, actually crazy rivals, getting lost underground and being a huge nerd. And he wouldn't have it any other way.

34. Lou the Lieutenant (Ch34)

{}=Pokemon Speech; []=Telepathic Speaking

---

Did I surprise you with my entrance? I hope to make your acquaintance in this story in a deeper fashion from now on. Let us be on our way, it's time to properly meet me.

---

~x1x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Lake Verity

The new entity flexed his hands and wagged his little legs as he floated suspended in midair. Rogelio's white fur up close looked even more sheen and silky. His narrow, ovular eyes gave him a more stern disposition, but it was subverted by how small and cute he was. His proportions were a bit off due to the big bulb crown, but with it gone I imagined he'd be perfect.

"So Calyrex are the pixie kind of legendary…" I muttered, expecting something bigger, but unsurprised to see he was small. "So, this is who you are? This is what Calyrex look like?"

That question was directed at anyone who could answer. Lou, Donut and Holyn all looked interested in his new appearance, but seemed to have adjusted to his appearance quickly. Perhaps they could sense his anomalous, legendary power or were too used to him being their fancy talking friend. Roland seemed a bit more awestruck, although he hid it well. I think he was just processing how this random babysitting trip turned into a legendary reawakening.

"Rogelio's new appearance aligns with the remains of the statue found in Freezington," The Professor noted, staring at Rogelio with great fascination. "Sans the equine pokemon statue along with it."

Equine as in horse? File that away for later.

"Are you pleased?" Rogelio did a little spin, spreading blue sparkles everywhere.

I eyed his skinny little legs in contrast to the large bulb on his head. "Can your legs support your head?"

Holyn barked in questioning agreement. His legs could support him smashing through buildings. What could Rogelio's do?

"Of course, I am legendary! Our bodies would not have such a silly oversight," He grandstanded as he deactivated his psychokinesis, promptly plopping onto the ground. He was around two feet tall, minus the large head, but clearly his two feet were not able to support his weight as he tumbled back.

Donut cringed sympathetically. Usually he'd prolly have a snide remark, but Rogelio is a friend adjusting to new circumstances. He needed our sympathy and patience.

"It would appear I was mistaken. A moment please."

Rogelio tapped his head and the bulb shrank from being larger than his body to being around the same size as his neck orbs. His antlers shrunk alongside the bulb to create a much more balanced appearance.

Now he looks perfect.

With that change he was able to stand up as his shaky, but capable legs. "Utilizing a body is much more taxing than I'd realized."

I smiled down at him before kneeling, holding out a hand. "Try walking over here, I think you've already got a good idea."

With a couple cautionary steps he slowly made his way over to me before tripping on a small rock. Before he could fall on his face I caught up and propped him on my shoulder. "Look at that, you made it!"

"With your aid, mind you. Much appreciated, Sir Topaz," He thanked me before turning to everyone else. "Ah yes, the telepathic connection disconnected during our separation. Allow me to reapply it."

"Is that safe? Are you capable of such a thing?" Rowan questioned.

"Of course, it's in fact much easier with my own body to utilize. Although, it appears you and Topaz are able to understand my words without telepathic connection. Have I mastered human speech already?"

"I did notice you sound different than a telepathic pokemon speaking. Like I can actually understand the words coming from your mouth," I noted.

"Interesting, regardless allow me to loop the others in. Connecting… now," He replied, sending a barely visible wave through all of us.

[Testing, testing… hmmm yes, all seems to be in order. Congratulations Rogelio, you've achieved your goal,] Lou responded first.

[You're a lot cuter than I thought you'd be,] Holyn noted.

"Thank you both. Obtaining a body was the ultimate goal, but I am quite pleased to know that I am cute by my fellow cute friend's standards," Rogelio responded, earning a bashful chuckle from Holyn.

He eyed the pokemon deeply a moment before nodding in approval. "I've not tested the full extent of my abilities, but I have a good understanding of telepathy and keeping it applied. I would like to maintain communication between humans and pokemon as often as possible."

[That would definitely be helpful, but how would ya do it?] Donut asked.

"The ideal would be allowing humans to understand pokemon innately. I have ideas, but I'll test them later," Rogelio explained.

Few humans can say they're capable of understanding pokemon naturally. Could Rogelio really accomplish that?

[I had low expectations for this journey, but I am glad to know even I can be surprised. Your birth was astonishing,] Roland noted, smiling a tad.

"Oh how'd it look? I couldn't really see it all cuz I was drowning," I rattled off casually. I assume the whole affair was much more spectacular above water than within it.

[Well, when you decided to go for a swim in the glowing lake it got even brighter. Like the entire lake was glowing, a bunch of wild pokemon were watching. Then blue light started pouring into the lake, around where you dived in. Right before you popped out of the water a small blue orb flew out from where you were and into the trees. Then you followed right after gasping like a Feebas on land,] Donut added on oh so eloquently.

Blue light, huh? I don't think Mesprit is usually associated with blue energy. Maybe it's related to Rogelio and Calyrex?

"Awww, that does sound pretty majestic… and comfortable. Way more comfortable than experiencing it," I shuddered, since I actually still was cold, even with Roland's weird fire trick.

Professor Rowan nodded in agreement before turning to Rogelio. "Rogelio- no, Lord Rogelio, if I may ask, will you accompany us to the pokemon center? I understand if you have other obligations that you must attend to, but I would like to ensure you and Topaz are of the best of health."

Rogelio tilted his head. "I had not existed in the physical realm until minutes ago, what other engagements could I have?"

Now the professor looked confused. "I would assume you would immediately pursue your legendary duty, no? You seem to have some grasp of what you are and your abilities."

Rogelio was quiet, looking himself over in deep thought. "For now, I would just like to accompany my cohorts. To the Sandgem center, yes?"

"I see…" The Professor muttered as he took out a whistle. "I shall summon Staraptor then."

[Must we administer the aid of the foul fowl again? Once was enough humiliation,] Lou groaned.

[You could fly all you want if you just evolved,] Donut replied bluntly.

[As could you, but you seem to be in no rush,] Lou countered.

[Lou, come now, you'll spend the trip in your pokeball, it's not demeaning,] Roland tried to appease him.

As the pokemon bickered amongst themselves I thought to myself.

Rogelio is a Galarian legend… wouldn't that mean he's obligated to go back?

I shook my head. There was something more pressing we had to do. "We should all thank Lady Mesprit for her generosity. Without her, Rogelio wouldn't be with us."

Her? She didn't specify a gender, yet now I know. Odd.

"I was going to say the same. Lady Mesprit is an example of what it means to be a legend. One that I hope to follow," Rogelio boldly declared.

[Then let us all pray in our Lady's name and give her the thanks she so well deserves,] Lou followed up as all of us got into our own sort of praying position.

[Shouldn't we offer something too?] Donut questioned. [She helped us out a lot.]

[Don't you have a bunch of berries and stones in your bag? Maybe she'd like those,] Holyn suggested to me.

Heeding his words, I took out some berries I had gathered in Route 204 and some gemstones I had collected during past mining adventures. Each person there took some and placed it on the beach.

"We all worked together to gather these and hope they please you. Thank you for your good grace and assistance," I said, bowing slightly to the lake alongside everyone else.

There was no need to pray in the water for this. She could see and hear us all from here. And I somehow knew she could feel how true our thanks was as it came from the depths of our hearts.

---

~x2x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Sandgem Pokemon Center

After we finished praying and I warmed up a bit more we flew over to the Sandgem center. The Professor wanted to be more discreet to not draw attention so he called ahead to let Nurse Joy the gist of the situation. From there we entered through the back entrance and Nurse Joy finally got her first look at him.

"How interesting," She noted in her tablet, as her and the nurse Chansey began their check-up of Rogelio. "Could you open your mouth for me, please? Thank you."

Rogelio followed her instructions without complaint as the Professor and I watched. One of the Chansey had offered my team smores and they were gone. So I got to stay with Rogelio, like an attentive older brother.

I watched as Nurse Joy typed a lot more than usual on her tablet for a routine check-up. While I had never met her before there was something about all Nurse Joy that made everyone feel… safe around them. You can trust them with anything, but questions never hurt.

"So Nurse Joy, how can you tell what's right or wrong for a pokemon you have no data on?" I inquired.

As Chansey helped Rogelio with some stretches, she looked over to me. "We're actually trained for these sorts of events. Our job is to help every pokemon that comes into our care, no matter what species they are, legendary, artificial, alien and more. Data on legendary pokemon is limited, but not nonexistent."

Professor Rowan folded his arms. "The Joy Group, whom all Nurse Joys in every region are affiliated with, have the most comprehensive, organized pokemon medical database on the planet. They share their information freely and easily so they can treat pokemon from all over the world in any part of the world."

"Does that mean you have data on Calyrex?" I asked, excited. I hadn't thought about asking Nurse Joy for information.

She shook her head. "I checked and unfortunately everything I could find dated back several centuries ago. What I do know now is that Calyrex are confirmed to be primary psychic, secondary grass in terms of typing. The reverse of Celebi's typing."

That makes sense, he's been using all these psychic powers. Grass… well he's certainly green.

"So you can use what you know about Celebi and other legendaries to treat him until you find a proper standard?" I assumed.

She smiled back. "You've got it. They are the legendary most similar to him on the surface, but here in Sinnoh we actually have a lot of old information of our legendary pokemon such as Shaymin and the lake trio. So I can cross reference them to note any potential anomalies in legendary level psychic and grass types. When treating an undocumented pokemon it's all about compiling what you know and working from there. It's why me documenting this now is so critical because now the world will better be able to treat any future Calyrex."

"I'm honored to be of service to the medical community. The staff at Pokemon Centers are hardworking, benevolent individuals. Your work has not gone unnoticed," Rogelio responded.

Nurse Joy smiled gently at him. "Why thank you, Lord Rogelio! You're an absolute gentleman to work with. On behalf of Sandgem Center we thank you."

I watched them continue their check-up until we all had to leave them room so Rogelio could have a bit of privacy for some other tests. I had no interest in asking what they involved.

Discovering, well rediscovering a new pokemon was just hitting me. Rogelio would become the new standard of Calyrex treatment. Even if it takes years for more to appear on the planet it was nice to know they could be helped.

After we left it didn't take too much longer for Nurse Joy to call us all in.

"From what I can see Rogelio is a picture of health, but if anything changes please let me know. I don't know everything about his species yet, but I tried my best to gather a general sense of him," She explained.

"We appreciate your services and privacy, Nurse Joy," Rowan concurred.

"I should be thanking all of you. This is a once in a lifetime experience and I'm glad you trusted me to be able to conduct the examination. You've sent me quite an array of rare pokemon in the past, but no one with so little data. I just hope it meets standards," she admitted.

"If anything changes we'll let you know," I consoled her.

"Thank you, Topaz. Oh and by the way, I've updated your Pokedex on basic information I was able to gather about Calyrex, mainly suspected dietary needs and general tips on caring for him. I hope that helps."

I'll have to check the dex later.

"It absolutely will, thank you!"

"We should return to the laboratory now and figure out how to proceed," Rowan informed us. "Any objections?"

"None from me," Rogelio replied.

"Or me," I answered.

"Then let us go."

---

~x3x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Sinnoh Research Lab

Once we got back to the lab Rowan introduced Rogelio and the rest of us to the boy and Turtwig that helped us when we got here. Apparently his name was Lucas and he was one of his younger research assistants and was close to my age. He seemed cool and wanted to know if this was related to my earlier problem, so I promised to tell him later. I didn't feel like relaying that whole story all over again.

Afterwards we returned to Professor Rowan's office to discuss what we could do, each of us at our own seat. Kirlia was once again here, sitting in her own corner eating cookies.

"So, Lord Rogelio, what are your plans from here on? If there's any way I could assist you, please ask it of me," Professor Rowan insisted. "You are a legendary pokemon of Galar, if your instincts beckon you back I can organize a meeting with their League to discuss how we all may best accommodate you."

Rogelio grew contemplative, while Holyn gave an aghast look. [Are you saying Rogelio has to leave!? But we just got him!]

"I have no intention to force anyone to do anything, I just wish to provide as many options as possible," Professor Rowan defended. Holyn was not yet appeased. Neither was I honestly. He was our friend, why would he leave to go back to a country he's never been to before? As far as I know, Sinnoh has limited relations with Galar. How could we trust their League to safeguard him? What could he even do for the country now? None of the supposed legendaries that may be there seem to be active.

"Mmmm," Rogelio grumbled as he turned to me. "I am… not quite sure what is best in this instance. You know me best, Sir Topaz. What is the best course of action in your opinion?"

The best course would be to stay, but… I have to be honest.

"I-"

[Excuse me, General I would like to impart my own advice,] Lou interrupted. I halted immediately to let him speak, which he thanked with a soft burr as he turned to Rogelio. [Rogelio the Calyrex… you have your own body so you should make your own decisions, but as we are both pokemon I must remind you to not doubt your instincts. General's advice should always be considered, but he is not a pokemon and you clearly already know how to wield some of your abilities. You've already shown competence in levitation, telepathy, human speech and physical transformation. Trust your own judgment and be resolute in your choices. We shall discuss the plausibility of them after you decide on them.]

Noticeably, Professor Rowan eyed Lou closely after that speech. He didn't say anything, but clearly he wanted to.

[But if you really don't wanna go, you can stay with us,] Holyn insisted.

[You should definitely go where you feel like it's right. I won't judge you either way,] Donut comforted him.

[Neither will I. If you have other responsibilities beyond our ken, then please do not forsake them for us,] Roland continued, offering a gentler expression.

I listened to them all confess how they felt on the matter, leaning back as I no longer felt the need to speak. Everything I wanted to say has been said by them. Now we needed an answer.

When I glanced at Rogelio I expected a much more questioning expression as he considered the paths before him. Instead I found him on the verge of tears. Donut quickly passed him a tissue on a nearby table so he could blow his nose loudly.

"My apologies," He whimpered, wiggling his nose. "Your convictions are just… they bring me to tears!"

[I'm… sorry?] Holyn questioned.

"Do not apologize, Young Holyn, I've made my decision. You said follow my heart, yes? My legendary instincts? Then let it be known… I have barely any."

[What do you mean? You are legendary, right?] Donut questioned.

"Indeed, I am and I have some instinctive knowledge and drive from those who came before me, yet I have no desire to go to Galar. Note I do not say return to Galar because I've never been. I've no connection to a place that abandoned my kin," Rogelio admitted bluntly. "Hm, that was rather harsh. I just feel so much more welcomed here in Sinnoh with all of you. There's nowhere else I'd rather be in truth."

He wiped his nose. "In conclusion, I've no immediate or known legendary duties. I would simply like to live in Sunyshore City alongside the rest of you."

Holyn immediately got up to hug him and Rogelio gladly returned it. Everyone else seemed quite pleased with his answer, including Rowan.

"Oh… well this works out perfectly then," I noted, exhaling a sigh of relief. "I really wasn't sure what you had to do in Galar anyway, so I'm glad you're staying with us."

[So we can go home now?] Donut inquired.

"If I may say, I'm quite pleased and respect your decision, Lord Rogelio," Professor Rowan interceded. "I and the rest of Sinnoh will do everything we can to ensure your safety. But may I ask if you could remain here for a bit longer?"

I was going to question why, but I figured it out quick. "You want to study him while he's here, right? And by ensure his safety, you want everyone important in the know."

"Correct," He answered. "I trust he will be safe at Volkner's abode, but I would like to connect the League with this. Cynthia, Lucian, Flint, no strangers. I would also like to look into Rogelio's abilities and document them for future reference in case he would like to utilize them to their fullest extent. It shouldn't take longer than a week."

{I would like to know my true prowess from a scientific standpoint. I have no issue being the subject of humane research,} Rogelio consented.

Rowan nodded as he turned to me. "I would appreciate your assistance in this endeavor. You are an intelligent young man, but can you match my pace? Lab work isn't easy."

Oho, a challenge.

"Gladly," I boasted. "I've been relaxing for a while, so I don't mind putting in some work. Do you guys mind if we stay here a bit longer?"

Donut and Roland shrugged, I knew they wanted to go home, but they could stand waiting a bit longer. Holyn and Lou were totally fine with it.

[If I can be of any service, just call upon me,] Lou requested.

"I have spare lodgings for all of you to stay in. Kirlia, could you get them all settled in please?" Rowan asked her and she obliged.

I watched everyone get up until my eyes fell upon Lou who looked up at me in confusion.

Now that Rogelio is sorted out, I need to sort this out.

"Lou, Professor, could we all speak for a moment?" I asked, surprising them both.

"With Lou and I…" The Professor pondered until he looked at Lou again. "I believe I know what this is about."

[Is there a problem that we should be aware of for the team's sake?] Lou asked.

"More like a burning question I've had," I admitted. "Professor Rowan, do you believe Lou is ready for evolution?"

"He is leagues beyond ready," He answered instantly.

Lou looked aghast. [I am not strong enough to evolve, I've not reached my peak.]

"Lou, I've been analyzing you all day and I can safely say you've cleared several peaks in terms of physical and mental potential. You are ready," Professor Rowan enunciated firmly. It was genuinely intimidating.

Lou buzzed in defiance. [I know I can grow stronger than this, if I reach my full capabilities as a Charjabug, then-]

"We all know you'll never reach your full capability in this state. Topaz wouldn't have initiated this conversation otherwise," The professor called me out and suddenly all eyes were on me.

[Is this true, General?]

"I've… had a feeling for a while now," I admitted. "I didn't say anything since we've been busy traveling, but the fight with Jubilee confirmed it."

[You mean my quarrel with that mud trotting ass?] Lou recounted his battle with Merlin the Mudbray.

"Back in October you had trouble taking on Merlin, but in a couple months you've come so far you barely took any damage from his attacks and defeated him with only a few. Donut the other day mentioned how strong your electric attacks have gotten that they completely overpower him by accident. Even your sparring sessions with Roland have been going way better than they ever have," I noted.

[But… that still doesn't feel like sufficient reason to evolve,] Lou admitted.

I nodded in agreement. "I don't want to force you to evolve, but you have everything working towards you. Ever since you've moved to Sunyshore you've been collecting power from the solar panels, stocking your reserves. You train everyday at the gym. Whenever you go underground it seems like you have to hold back everything to stop the chargestones from triggering evolution randomly. Mentally and emotionally you're one of the most stable people I have ever met."

I rubbed the top of his carapace.

"You're so much stronger than you realize, but you'll never be able to see it if you keep holding back. And with each new person we invite into our lives just adds another person we're at risk of losing. Even if there's never a perfect time for something to happen, there's always a good enough time. And I don't want any of us to regret waiting for a better time as someone is dying."

I had to get serious with him, it's how he perceived messages best, life or death. It's how he grew up, it's how he lived and what we survived against Benedetto. He's never lost a comrade in battle and as his trainer I needed to make sure he never did.

"I ask now because Professor Rowan is the world expert on Pokemon evolution. If you want your evolution to maximize your insane potential, then he's the perfect man to do it," I noted, earning a noteworthy glance from Lou. "So what do you say, Lou?"

His body hummed, considering a response and re-evaluating the charge he had amassed. When he stopped, he grumbled approvingly. [It seems I've been blinded by my insecurities. Excuse my folly, I have much to learn. I would like to evolve as soon as possible.]

Yessss!

I grinned ear to ear as the Professor huffed in response, taking out his phone. "I will organize the most productive evolution method for Lou then. It will be ready by tomorrow morning."

[So soon?] Lou questioned.

"It could be even sooner, but I think you need some time to prepare. Use it wisely," He affirmed for us.

I turned to Lou with a big ole smile. Excitement was bubbling within his little shell and while he didn't express it like everyone else it was there. Until he could show it to the world, I'd do it for him.

---

~x4x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Sinnoh Research Lab

Time: The Next Morning

After that pleasant talk with Lou and Rowan, I found my sleeping quarters in the lab, got ready for bed and fell asleep at around 8pm. It'd been a long day and that midwinter swim was the tipping point, I was ready for dreamland. The sleep itself was amazing. I woke up drooling and refreshed at around 8am after a night free of disturbances. Twelve hours of sleep is no joke.

Professor Rowan arrived at around 10am for work, honestly I'm surprised he didn't come earlier, but many of his staff had been up and at it tending to the lab, pokemon and projects for a while now. I ordered some breakfast from a nearby diner, while my team got to feast on the readily available pokemon food.

It was around 11am when Rowan called all of us into the field to begin the evolution ritual. Lou looked more focused than I had ever seen in my life. Apparently he'd been buzzing all night (I slept through it all) and during that time he had grown. A lot. He was like double his size, it was honestly impressive. Usually I'd ask how he felt, but I knew already.

He doesn't need words, he's prepared himself.

My team and I headed to the pasture. Rogelio got vague and said he'd prefer to watch from afar, but he'd stop in after it's done. I was pretty baffled as to why he was being distant all of a sudden, but Lou had no problem with it, so I let it go.

The lab's pasture was insanely big, with loads of pokemon I had never seen before in person. It was sectioned off neatly into different landscaped areas such as a grassy zone, a swamp zone, a flowing river and so much more.

The area he took us all to was a more craggy zone mostly filled with these electrically charged rocks on the highest hill of the property. The grass and shrubbery that was there was noticeably extra rubbery, coinciding with how in electric dominant habitats plants are more resistant to electricity to avoid setting fire.

Once we got to a suitably wide and empty plateau by the cliff did we stop. I took note of the battlefield markings on the ground indicating this was likely the preferred place for sparring in this zone. Professor Rowan took out his phone, huffing at it affirmingly before putting it away.

"Our assistance will be arriving shortly. This location will be where we conduct Lou's evolution. No one will mind if he exerts himself nor will anything be significantly damaged in the process either," Rowan noted.

[This land reminds me of the outdoors area by the gym,] Roland noted, admiring the infrastructure. [Clearly an expert cultivated this land specifically for electrics.]

[A fitting stage for your ascension, right Lou?] Donut inquired, but Lou's body pulsed with electricity in response, his eyes closed.. [Hello Lou?]

He glanced at Donut. [My apologies, Donut, I've been preparing myself all night for this moment. I've had the capability to evolve for years now, but I've pushed it all down. Last night I had to reawaken it, so I am keeping the urge at bay until it is time.]

[Oh… my bad then. Anything I can do to help?] He asked, totally willing.

Lou opened an eye. [I just need you here, Brother. I just need all of you at my back.]

Donut nodded in silence and it took all my effort to not say anything as well, so I just folded my arms. We just needed to be present for him. Although I couldn't see where Rogelio was watching, I knew he was.

It's a shame the whole gang isn't here to see this.

"Ya know Topaz wherever you and your team goes something drastic happens," A familiar voice spoke behind us. We all collectively turned around to see Volkner, Jade, Violet, Amethyst, Zenara, Cenza, Froberge, Flax and Shizu walking towards us.

Volkner gave a forced sigh. "But I can't say it's never worth showing up for."

"Volkner!? Everyone!?" I sputtered as they walked over to greet us. I could see Rowan huff approvingly at his watch at their appearance. My immediate thought was that Volkner was tired of waiting and came to drag us home with everyone else as support. The second thought realized the more probable reason. Although…

He couldn't have timed that any better.

Zenara's eyes had gone wide, and she ran up to Lou. She started excitedly bleating, but I didn't know what she was saying. Amethyst seemed to notice that, giving me an odd look. She didn't even need to glance at Violet for her to say something.

"She is questioning the dissolution of the psychic tether she had with you. I take it a significant event related to psychic energy transpired while you were away." She paused for a moment, then looked me up and down. "Are you well? Such energies are not easy on you."

I smiled at them softly. "I'm better than I've ever been actually. My head is clear, my body is energized and overall I'm feeling great. But yeah, something did happen, but I'll explain after all this is done. Today's not about me after all."

Rogelio prolly wants Lou to have his moment and for everyone to meet Holyn naturally before he enters the mix.

I turned to Amethyst. "You can connect me to your telepathic link. I'm all good now."

She nodded, and I felt a soft buzz in my brain before it was gone. [So is anyone gonna explain the Lou-shaped balloon over there? Because holy shit the energy coming from him.]

[I know right?!] Zenara cried gleefully. [Loulou is gonna go all BZZZAP and make storms look puny!]

Lou buzzed in response. [This is the congregation of all the electricity I've absorbed from Sunyshore's solar panels and the gym's pokemon. Along with my own power, of course. I've been prepping this all for my eventual evolution, every single day since I became a Charjabug.]

[And you've been holding this in this entire time? Even when you could've evolved ages ago and been freed of the excessive watts?] Froberge questioned. [Resourceful.]

"I had prepared for such a day," Violet noted while looking at Lou. "If you would like it, I would gladly offer more electricity for such an event."

[Your preparedness is admirable, Violet. I gladly accept your aid,] Lou replied. She nodded and immediately took out a capsule from her bag before waiting again.

"I have no electricity to share, but I just wanted to see what got you held up for weeks," Jade stated honestly.

I laughed awkwardly as Professor Rowan stepped up next to me. "I hope you all found your way here without any trouble. We thank you all for coming on such short notice."

"You've got to show up for family," Volkner spoke up.

Violet simply gave Professor Rowan a blank look. "As though we would not hasten to a Pokemon's side for such a monumental occurrence."

Amethyst just chuckled, sighing. [It's been quieter without you all around. We're all glad to see you again.]

[Yeah, you guys were taking forever, but now I know it's for a good reason, so it's okay,] Cenza smiled. I noticed she was wearing some sort of intricate harness, but that was something for later.

Lou scanned everyone with an unreadable expression. He was definitely happy, although for once he was speechless for a moment as he tried to come up with a response. Instead, he turned to the quiet Holyn watching everyone curiously. [I… do not have the right words to express how much it pleases me to see you all here at this moment, but I cannot savor this moment without first introducing my new comrade in arms.]

I nodded in agreement, patting Holyn on the back. "Remember Holyn, these are my friends and family. The ones I showed you in the pictures?"

It took him a second before he nodded in understanding. I wanted him to know at least who he could trust in the worst case scenario.

[I remember!] He stepped forward with a big smile. [Hi, I'm Holyn! I hope we can be friends and family too! Thanks for coming to help Lou out… however you're gonna do that.]

Violet bowed deeply to him, catching him unprepared, but we were all used to it. "It is an honor to meet you. I can only hope I come within sight of your standards."

Amethyst waved, grinning wide. [Hey Holyn! Nice to meetcha finally!]

Zenara managed to tear herself away from Lou's side for a moment to run over to Holyn. [Hiya! Wanna greeting headbutt?]

[Yeah!] He cheered, preparing himself until Roland put a firm hand on his head.

[I think 'hiya' was enough, Zenara,] Roland warned her.

She just huffed. [You say I've got a hard head all the time, I'll be fine!]

[His is harder than most,] Donut sighed, hiding a laugh. [Now's not the time for a concussion.]

Zenara pouted, puffing up her cheeks as she walked past Holyn back to Lou's side. As she did though, she whispered [Greeting heabutts later,] not at all subtly.

Jade meanwhile whistled in the background. "Cranidos huh… how'd that happen?"

"Oreburgh's fossil pokemon sanctuary was holding adoptions and Holyn just clicked with all of us. It was just natural," I replied simply.

"Natural, huh… sounds about right, he seems like your type," Jade noted cheekily.

"Always be grateful for immediate connections like that. It's always a good sign you've met a life partner," Volkner explained before looking at Jade. "And even if the connection isn't immediate, it doesn't mean it can't be made. You and your new partner will get there."

[New partner?] Donut questioned, concerned. [There's another one of you!?] Amethyst chuckled at that.

"Okay if today isn't about Topaz, then it's definitely not about me either," Jade defended. I did take note of the new pokeball at his belt, but I guess we'll save that for later too.

"You would be correct, Jade. Today is Lou's day, so I would ask all electrics to be summoned please so we may begin," Professor Rowan interrupted. "Lou, please stand in the center of the battlefield. Electrics surround him in a circle."

Volkner removed his pokeballs summoning Zerbino, Marsil and Ganelon, noticeably the ones Lou had grown the closest towards. Professor Rowan raised an eyebrow.

"A Magnezone I expected, but an Ambipom and Octillery?" He questioned.

"Marsil wanted to help and Ganelon said he wouldn't miss this for the world. Besides, they've tangoed with Roland and Froberge enough to power their own power plants," Volkner appeased him. The Professor nodded, letting them be.

[Hiya guys!] Marsil waved with both tails. [Ready to make some sparks fly?]

[There will be far more than sparks flying today, my friend. Today is a soldier's true birth, no, his reincarnation!] Ganelon replied as he shot a water pulse in celebration.

Zerbino just floated over to Lou, blinking proudly. [Joy: I feel immense delight helping a fellow friend evolve in this manner. My friends did the same for me, so I am grateful to do the same for you, Lou.]

Lou's body pulsed at the electricity within their bodies as his power grew. [I am humbled by your kindness, my superior officers. I will exceed every expectation, that I swear.]

[That's a given, we're just happy to help,] Amethyst chuckled as she got into place in the circle as well.

"I won't protest your inclusion, but there will be high levels of electricity coursing through you into him," Professor Rowan warned. "Can you handle that?"

Amethyst folded her arms, smirking. [That and a helluva lot more.]

Donut waved Rowan aside. [She's not kidding either. She's tough.]

Once again Rowan turned silent allowing her to go without further protest.

[This is awesome!] Zenara bleated, barely able to contain her excitement enough to stay in one spot. [Let's help Loulou zap the sky!]

[Cenza!] Lou shouted, surprising Cenza. She had been looking down as everyone got into formation. [The Professor called for all electrics. That includes you as well.]

[B-but I…] She protested, tugging at her harness, looking down.

His expression softened ever so slightly. [Please, it would honor me.]

His words struck a chord as her expression changed to one of pleading determination as she looked up to Violet for guidance. She thought for a moment, calculating before nodding. "I do not know if the harness will hold up, but it is up to you if you wish to keep it on."

[I do, I trust what you and Amethyst made for me!] She asserted as she dashed over to stand next to Amethyst.

"Then I shall not delay you all further," she responded before walking over to an open spot in the circle. The Professor raised an eyebrow, but waited. Her intentions quickly became clear as she clicked the capsule in her hand, a large generator appearing. It looked as much battery as it was a generator, a huge brick of metal and glass.

She typed a number of inputs into her handheld, the generator whirring to life before she flicked a few switches and entered another input. The generator began whirring loudly, bright yellow light shining harshly from the glass tubes. Violet stepped back, looking at Lou. "Do not worry about breaking this for my sake; it was designed to assist in your evolution. Utilize it to its fullest."

[I shall,] Lou concurred.

I looked over towards Jade standing with his team, who had folded his arms watching. "I'm glad you all came to watch."

[Sure,] Was all Flax said.

[You sound excited,] said Shizu, sarcastically. [Well it sounded interesting so I figured why not see what all the commotion was about.]

[It sounds like it's gonna be loud…] Flax sighed.

"Come now, it'll be over soon and then we can do what you want," Jade chastised him as they made their way over to the sidelines.

At least they showed up. I thought they weren't that close with my team, but perhaps I underestimated them?

I took my focus off of them to look at Donut talking to Lou. [They haven't exactly explained what we're doing, but I can take a guess it's zapping you. I know you're evolving right now just to show me up even more in a fight, but just know I'll always be faster. Either way, I'll give it my all… Bro.]

Lou scoffed good naturedly. [I'll be able to tell if you don't. Don't slack off.]

Donut snickered as he got into position, earning a pleased buzz from Lou.

[Ummm, I can't help, but I hope you get everything you wanted and more from evolving!] Holyn cheered.

[I know I will,] Lou stated as Holyn strode over to me.

My turn.

Before I could speak Lou buzzed. [I just want to say thank-]

I raised my hand to interrupt him. "Don't declare victory till the battle is over. Nothing's happened yet to warrant thanks. After you evolve, then we can talk. Just know, I'm proud of you, Lieutenant. I always have been, always will."

I patted him on the back, ignoring the perpetual shocking state of his body before giving him a formal salute, which he returned with a buzz. I backed away to join the others on the sidelines as Lou entered the circle and stood in the middle. This was his moment.

"I assume you all already know what's about to occur," Professor Rowan asked as he passed everyone sunglasses. It was going to be bright in a couple minutes.

I nodded. "Charjabug evolve when exposed to intense magnetic fields or in this case immense volumes of electricity. At peak exposure do they choose to evolve and use that power to fuel their new, powerful bodies. So by utilizing all the energy Lou has stored over the years and by being fueled with even more when he's prepared for evolution will maximize the benefits. The location, the pokemon, his preparedness. This is a perfect storm."

Professor Rowan huffed in agreement as he took out a Pokedex. "Precisely. This will grow chaotic, mind you, but you're all far too accustomed by electrics to be scared. Now, we begin."

We all nodded in agreement. It was going to get a bit dangerous, but they wouldn't let a single stray bolt hit us. We know that all too well.

"Everyone!" Professor Rowan called to the pokemon. "The goal is Lou the Charjabug's evolution! You are to transfer your electrical power in cohesion with everyone else until Lou has begun metamorphosis. Work in tandem to maximize power!"

"Lou!" He called. "Take in all their power until you finally have enough to break out of your shell. Use the electricity of your fellows to empower your new limbs and break free! Everyone understand?"

There was a collective shout from everyone charging themselves up.

"Then begin!"

As soon as those words left his lips, everyone exploded into crackling, glaring light. The air began to pop as lightning streaked between them, the smell of ozone crashing through the air. My hair shot on end from the static humming all around us. Thunder roared, shaking the earth itself.

In the center Lou focused intently, his green electricity sizzling against the multicolored voltage ring surrounding him. As they continued to charge, their light became the only one in the area, dark gray clouds gathering in a billowing spiral up above.

The blue glow of the chargestone rocks flickered, then dimmed as they clattered to the ground. Blue lightning cracked toward Lou, quickly enveloped by his aura of raw electrical energy. Thick, jagged streams of lightning began razing the ground, leaving smoking trails in their wake.

I looked down at Holyn as a lightning bolt struck directly next to us, but calmed him quickly by rubbing his back as steam rose from the impact. We were safe here. They wouldn't let any lightning hit us. We just had to stay in a group and wait.

I watched as the lightning strikes curled in on the group, lancing into each member at different intervals. Roland attracted the most, Cenza the least. Natural electricity from the planet would provide them even more power to do what they had to do and they shared it in ways they could handle.

After each of them was shrouded in frantic, crackling auras of raw electrical power, I watched as they all began to transfer energy between them all. It was… breathtaking. Regardless of how much they all knew each other, they worked in perfect unison. Knowing each other's proficiencies, what they could handle, as though they'd been doing it all their lives.

Electricity seared off each of them, the flow moving through the circle quicker and quicker each passing moment. I honed in on Lou, inspecting his reaction to all of it. He was growing in size once again, but I could see his carapace bulge in some places. As though he had limbs shackled in a straightjacket and they were desperate to break free. His expression remained purely focused though as he prepared himself for the eventual onslaught.

For any other pokemon this magnitude of power would be concerning. Even if this was a transfer and not an attack, this was still a lot to handle. But I wasn't afraid for anyone in this situation. I trusted them all. And especially Lou. He could take this and more any day. That's just who he is and soon… he'll be even more.

Everyone's eyes fell upon him as they prepared their attacks. Donut and Cenza got on all fours, ready to fire. Roland's tails lashed the ground violently as he spun his arms. Amethyst's eyes glowed blue as lightning condensed around her hands. Zenara's tail bulb shone a spectrum of colors. Froberge's lightning had turned black from sheer intensity.

Then the world stopped. There was a millisecond of clarity and peace. The lightning was suddenly gone. Everything and everyone was silent. But only now did Lou open his eyes.

The world burst again with thunder and lightning. The clouds swirling above spun faster as everyone diverted their electricity towards Lou, the center of the storm. There was an eruption of color, the cascade of energy pouring into him only segmented by the colors searing against each other in jagged lines.

The first fracture in Lou's carapace broke with a sharp crack on his side, light as bright as the sun screaming forth. His eyes widened. It was finally happening.

Donut's lightning was stained orange, his expression more determined than I had ever seen, his tail high and cheeks glowing red. His enthusiasm to aid his brother was clear by his immense output. The clouds above almost centered on him, lightning searing from his eyes like jagged flames as a tornado of energy reached for the sky.

Cenza was right beside him with the slimmest section of electricity, but she didn't care. If she was tired, she didn't show it as orange, pink and blue lightning spiraled in tandem from her. The harness on her steamed, but showed no signs of strain. It wouldn't give in before Cenza's fervor to help did.

Amethyst's ears were open, even the psychic organs glowing bright blue with electricity crackling from them. Her eyes were the same bright, brilliant blue and trailing jagged energy as she thrust each arm forward like pistons, faster than I could see. With each thrust, a large burst of electricity joined the torrent in front of her while dust was kicked up behind her. A dirty tan joined the tornado in thin streams, doing little to dim the glare from it.

Zenara was whirling like a dynamo, electricity crackling from her wool along with a single, gleaming, unbroken line where the light on her tail shone. Yellow, blue, purple and black all shone within as the waves of electricity only got larger. Clouds began to swirl down, stretching to meet the rising voltage.

Amidst all this, Violet's generator shuddered with a high pitched whine, cracks appearing in the glass was hardly a surprise as blue electricity flowed from it.

Another fracture in Lou's carapace as he shuddered, the shell around him his greatest opponent thus far.

Ganelon had anchored himself to the ground, firing endless beams of charged electricity. His tentacles had been wreathed in lightning, like jagged roots spreading across the ground beneath him. Red lightning screamed forth, its voice joining the cacophony of thunder roiling from them all.

Marsil's two tail hands were side by side with her own, a concentrated pinpoint of light held right in front of them erupting into an unending torrent. The crackling cone shook the earth alongside everyone else, Marsil's shadow cast long behind her in the wake of her beam's glare.

Zerbino's antenna and magnets were lit up bright, their yellow, blue and red pushing back against the deluge of grayish-yellow electricity lancing forth. Nine beams, one from each end of their magnets and eyes, arced into a single point before converging into the jagged stream of electricity in front of them.

Lou's carapace had fractured further, thin fault lines growing thicker as harsh light slowly tore it apart. His light shone clearly through the storm surrounding him. His mandibles were being forced forwards by something behind them, twin gleaming triangles narrowed in concentration through the windows of his carapace. With each streak of electricity came another defiant pulse, another fissure.

Froberge's body was enveloped in a wicked, black lightning that prowled around everyone else's. His bolts became a pillar of black light rising from directly above Lou, ebon lightning lashing his body as if to shatter the shell itself while yanking the clouds further down towards the tornado of lightning.

Roland's sheer output was incomprehensible. His twin tails lashed the ground violently, constantly causing a storm of sparks to burst forth. He swung both his arms in a windmill movement, only visible as circular blurs. His power roared alongside the torrent, bolts streaking between his antennae as the howl of lightning thundering forth shook the space before him. A wide, confident grin adorned his face, growing larger the longer lightning sparked around everyone.

Lou continued straining against his cocoon, glowing the whole time. With each crack more of his green electricity emerged from within, tendrils landing on the ground as if to get a better foothold, gain leverage against their prison. After a monumental stab, I watched as a thin, clawed leg burst open from his right, followed by another on his left. His eyes narrowed to slits. He could feel the outside world upon his body, his light a beacon piercing even the clouds.

Everyone glanced at one another at the sight. Roland gave an adamant smirk before the ground pulsed, their forms no longer visible. Only dark silhouettes shrouded in lightning remained. Lou maintained his seething determination as he gazed up into the sky.

A moment of clarity flashed in his eyes.

The same flash enveloped his entire body, the shattered remnants of his cocoon rocketing away in splinters, drawn upwards within the tornado as the scattered waste it now was. The form beneath was an enlarged Grubbin, already with two long legs extended. Two more shot from his body like the bolts surrounding him, each adorned with two claws.

His thorax extended, his mandibles reaching forth. From circular spearheads to flat blades, their hilt framing his face as razor sharp spikes jutted forth from the inner edges.

His exposed body began to harden once again, but not to entrap him like it did before. It streaked across his body, coating his form in gleaming deep green armor. The armor rose, revealing a pair of newly born wings that extended to a half circle as they hummed rapidly.

The plates shifted around his face, encasing his narrowed, triangular eyes. A piercing stare that would send the unworthy fleeing, afraid and enfeebled. His transformation complete, his body alit once again as it expelled a shockwave of green electricity dismissing the tornado, the clouds above. For he had what he required.

His focus solely upon high, Lou fluttered his wings and ascended, his mandibles to the sky as if to claw at it down. Green static arced between his pincers, his thorax pulsing with unbridled power as he fired a beam of multicolored light straight into the sky.

The impact pierced through the clouds above, scattering them like a meteor into sand. The sun returned to us once again, shining upon Lou, regaling his magnificence.

We all watched in appreciation and awe as his body coursed with static. Not just his own, but of them all. Of his home. Of his experience. Of his own willpower.

Roland's tails dug into the ground as he absorbed whatever stray charge was around, including Violet's generator which still seemed to function before powering down in an exhausted whine before nodding to us. Volkner nodded in turn as he gestured to us all to come. It was time to finally greet Lou the Vikavolt.

He hovered above us all by several yards, lost in his own thoughts as he wiggled his new legs, stretched his mandibles and buzzed his wings. Before we could say anything he shot up into the sky, leaving a trail of green light behind him. We watched in quiet awe as he dove through clouds, torpedoed himself downwards, accomplished loop the loops, barrel rolls and more. Once he was satisfied he dove towards us at breakneck speeds before halting himself perfectly a few feet above the ground.

I stepped forward with a big smile on my face. "How does it feel, Lou?"

His body shuddered with green electricity as he closed his eyes, inhaled and exhaled before he opened them. [Immaculate.]

His voice was similar, but somehow even deeper than before. More adult. The immense feeling of satisfaction and gratitude emanating from him was so thick and raw, it was palpable. Yet, I could also sense a tinge of vulnerability. There was something new to Lou besides a new body, more complex.

I nodded in understanding. "They say there comes a point in your life where your brain just clicks and everything begins to make sense in ways you never considered before. You've broken out of your shell in more ways than one. I loved Lou the Charjabug, but that wasn't all of who you are."

I gestured to everyone around us. "So please, tell us who you are. The new Lou."

My immediate understanding seemed to resonate with him as he flew a bit closer to eye level.

He scanned everyone before clearing his throat. [I know you all may know my name, but at this moment I do not know myself entirely. I ask that you be patient with me during this period, but until then I'd like to formally introduce myself.]

He glared dead ahead, his signature look only amplified. [My name is Lou the Vikavolt, soldier of liberation, protector of the deserving, loyal lieutenant to General Topaz. No matter the war, I'll be your unswerving soldier.]

He bowed his head slightly which was returned by everyone with either a bow or a salute, depending on whether their anatomy allowed it. But after that, Holyn immediately ran up to him.

[That was so cool, Lou!] He squealed in excitement. [And you're way bigger, and pointy and… you're just sooo cool!]

Lou huffed in response. [I'm glad my new appearance pleases you. I am most fond of it myself.]

Donut sauntered up to him next. [I'm just glad you didn't turn into anything weird or disappointing after all that set-up. Now you look so badass, I might just be outshined right next to you.]

[As if you weren't before?] Lou questioned, jokingly. [But yes, I've always known what I wanted to become. Nothing could deter me from achieving this exact state.]

"Nothing except your own stubbornness," I noted. "You've been handicapping yourself for so long for a little bit I thought you didn't even want to evolve."

[And I still would not have until you had brought us all on this trip. Once again you showcased why you are our general. I am beginning to understand the wrongs of my past actions, so I hope to act in a similar fashion to you in the future,] He admitted.

I laughed awkwardly, feeling undeserving of that praise. "Haha, I'm not the one to aim your praise at this time. Everyone else put in all this effort to make it happen."

Lou nodded in agreement as he turned to all his contributors. [I offer you my deepest and most humble thanks for your contributions. It honors me beyond words to know that my fellow comrades would aid me in my most needed moment. But until I can find those specific words for each of you, this is all I can offer.]

Violet had gone beyond just bowing and was kneeling to Lou with her eyes closed, as though she knelt before royalty. Though considering what just happened, it was far from unjustified. "It is an honor to meet you, Lou the Vikavolt. As with your evolution, I will provide whatever aid I can in your quest to find yourself, if you would have it."

Lou immediately lowered himself, his legs touching the ground for the first time to be on the same level as Violet. [Please rise, General Violet. I think it'd be most efficient for your head to be up if you intend to aid me.]

She nodded, standing up and gazing at Lou. Her eyes conveyed the same love for him that had always been there, that hadn't wavered in the slightest. She considered something for a moment, but didn't say anything. Simply exchanging a silent conversation with Lou.

After a few seconds, Amethyst floated over to him, a big grin plastered on her face. [Gotta say? That was the most badass evolution I've ever seen. I dunno if anyone's gonna top that, or you. It'll take some getting used to for you to be in the air more than me, but I'm looking forward to it.]

He rose again into the air. [I suppose it did feel rather dramatic for an evolution, but it's not the type of event to give anything less than your all. As for aerial movement…] He eyed his wings. [I now understand why avians fly so pointlessly through the air unlike us bugs. There is… amusement to be had.]

Amethyst laughed, shaking her head as she gestured to Zenara. [I'm sure she's gonna get a lot more than amusement watching you do loop-de-loops.]

Zenara was uncharacteristically quiet. She just gazed at Lou with wide eyes, mouth agape. Her tail was up in the air, still shining bright.

Lou gave her a questioning look. [Your head is in the clouds, soldier. Isn't it time to greet your new lieutenant properly?]

A wide smile accompanied her starry eyed look. [I can't have my head in the clouds because you blew them all up!] She bolted to his side, tackling him playfully before bouncing around him excitedly. [You're so cool and flying and super strong and you're gonna kick all the butt and you're awesome Loulou!]

Lou was a bit awestruck while Holyn was astonished. [We can call Lou Loulou!?]

[Well Zenara can, when I tried to he said I hadn't earned it,] Donut explained.

Holyn mentally filed that away for later as Lou collected himself. [Now that's much more like you, Zenara. The day is young and bright, it would be a shame for it to remain cloudy for its remainder due to my own needs. Sometimes even the heavens must be broken to aid your allies, keep that in mind.]

Break the heavens? What next we fight Giratina atop Spear Pillar?

She nodded quickly, stopping in front of him and looking up excitedly. [I wanna know how strong you are! Hit me with your best shot!]

He shook his head adamantly. [Too simple, we need a proper match.]

Her tail wagged excitedly. [Yesssss let's do this!]

Froberge jumped to Zenara's side. [Ya mind if I assist?]

I could see the gears in Zenara's brain turning, her face screwed up in thought. I managed to catch 'carry the Lou' pass through her head before she looked up at Froberge. [So long as you don't try and keep me from fighting!]

He laughed good naturedly. [Far be it from me to keep you from a fight. I'm just here because I think Lou wants some extra challenge. Besides…] He stretched, his body charging with power. [Fully evolved or not, I've gotta remind him who's the gym leader and who's not.]

Lou nodded in complete understanding. [My evolution state is no longer an excuse, although I never would dare to use it as one. I wish to clash against the strongest, so give me the strongest.]

"Then you'd need a third opponent," Volkner offered, walking up to us all. "You look good, Lou, but you need to break in that new body and release some of that pent up evolution energy before anything. At least one more strong opponent should do."

"Got anyone in mind, Lou?" I asked.

[I do, General,] He answered, turning towards the professor, his eyes slits. [The Bird.] He hissed.

Professor Rowan looked visibly unnerved. "You mean Staraptor?"

[If that is what you call him, yes,] Lou spat. [Unless you mean to tell me the bird is just a glorified taxi, in which case I commend you for finding a use for such a heinous creature.]

Professor Rowan turned to me for help. "Is this a… development of his evolution?"

I shook my head calmly. "Nah, he has a burning hatred for all bird pokemon. They've been trying to eat him and everyone he loves since… forever really."

[Due to Clover and my fellows' efforts, Route 222 has become a much more fair section of the region,] Lou inserted. [The war against the avian menace is still ongoing, but they are relentless. Although, we never fail to rise to a challenge.]

[Clover? Route 222?] Holyn questioned.

[Lou backstory, I'll explain later,] Donut whispered.

"I'd feel bad if I didn't warn you, but Staraptor should only fight if they want to. Lou as you can tell is uhhh merciless when it comes to birds," I explained.

[I treat them as they deserve.]

"Well… Staraptor is not one to turn down a challenge, so far be it from me to deny him one," Rowan ceded as he blew his whistle to summon him.

Volkner turned to me. "Let's have the pokemon duke it out on their own. I wanna see what Lou can do fresh from evolution."

"Ahhh, so you don't want your nephew outsmarting you from the get-go, got it," I laughed. Volkner ruffled my hair at that retort, but I too wanted to see what Lou could do.

Show us your new might, Lou.

---

~x5x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Sinnoh Research Lab Pasture - Electric Zone

After a few minutes of preparation, Lou's opposition stood before him on the battlefield. He stood on the ground with his new legs, focused and ready.

Rowan's Staraptor had come quickly and seemed eager to fight, although it was clear he'd rather do it alone. According to the Professor this was one of his feistier Staraptor, but I think that's for the best. Lou takes more enjoyment in bringing down cocky birds.

Froberge stood at the ready, cool as could be, ready to fight. It had been awhile since I had seen him battle and honestly I was curious to see how far Lou could push him. Zenara on the other hand was splayed out on the ground, head leaning to the side with the most bored look on her face.

[Can we fight now? Setup's boring!]

Volkner scanned the field. "I'll be the referee, so I'll call it before it gets too intense. We just need Lou to burn off some steam, alright?"

The three elder pokemon nodded while Zenara groaned.

Volkner's sigh was loud and clear. "Great, go off then."

As soon as Volkner finished his lackluster start-up, Lou shot up into the sky. His reaction was only faster than Zenara's, who leapt up giddily and bounded to the top of a rock for a better angle. She started firing shock waves at him, while Staraptor flapped his wings once to rocket into the sky. I couldn't help but notice Zenara watching him with a mix of wonder and distaste.

"A poor team up if I do say so myself," Jade interjected. I turned to him questioningly, Violet glancing at him for a brief moment. "Zenara can only do so much from the ground and Staraptor can't do anything unless he gets close. This makes the skies more volatile than they already were going to be unless he somehow manages to bring Lou lower, but that just puts Staraptor in a new disadvantage."

[Course anywhere Froberge is isn't where you want to be,] Flax continued. [Getting Lou close to him should be their win condition.]

"That assumes winning is the unanimous goal," Violet said simply, catching glances from all of Jade's team.

[It doesn't look like it's Froberge's goal,] Holyn pointed out, noting how Froberge remained at his spot, watching the skies. It was like watching him about to hunt, coiled and ready. Who knew when he could pounce or how much damage he could cause when he struck.

Froberge aside, I looked back into the sky to see Lou dodging Zenara's shockwaves while being chased by Staraptor. He tried several different maneuvers, but Staraptor managed to keep up with ease, managing to dodge the shock waves on his own merit.

"I've seen these movements before…" Professor Rowan muttered. "Trainers with Starly and Staravia typically practice these movements to dodge attacks such as Zenara's. It's integral when flying so high in the sky."

"Lou has been dealing with bird pokemon all his life and has trained himself to take them down. Looks like he's adopted their flight patterns too to speed up his own learning process," I noted, but grimaced as I watched Staraptor keep up easily. "But these moves are too simple. Staraptor has been doing these sorts of movements for ages, so he's gaining on him."

As though to punctuate the point, Staraptor began spiraling in wide circles around Lou, firing Air Slashes at him while cawing mockingly. Lou's eyes turned to slits as his legs began to glow with a green light forming giant claws around them.

Is that how he manifests X-scissor now? Sensible.

Using his new legs he began slashing each Air Slash before it made contact. He had yet to go on the offensive truly which was unusual, but I believed he wanted to see how much they could test him. Zenara paused for a moment before shooting Thunderbolts into the sky around Lou, while Staraptor began doing increasingly complicated maneuvers while still literally flying circles around Lou.

[It's like she's trying to sabotage her ally,] Flax stated bluntly.

[Or maybe she just has that much faith in Staraptor's flying ability,] Donut mused in jest. Flax wasn't amused.

[Nah, she just has two targets up there,] Amethyst hummed, not taking her eyes off the sky. When Flax gave her an incredulous look, she just raised an eyebrow. [You think she gets trained by Lou for years and doesn't pick up an animosity for at least some birds?]

"Well there have been some cases of large avian pokemon preying on mareep so it's not totally unfounded," I noted, remembering cases of some bird pokemon feeding on live mareep.

She nodded at me with a grin. [See, he gets it.]

Turning our attention to the battle I noticed Lou had begun descending closer to the ground, closer to Zenara where more of her lightning could strike. While he still managed to dodge her well with his compact body, Staraptor had increasingly more difficulty. Lou's plan was becoming more clear.

Lou gazed down upon Zenara as she fired a bolt, moving ever so slightly to dodge it. He shook his head dismissively, taunting her to attack, before turning his back on her and facing Staraptor, now firing his own thunderbolts. It proved more difficult for Staraptor to keep up the constant air slashes while also pulling stunts, so instead they began weaving from side to side to try and avoid all the lightning in the sky. Goading the beetle with a railgun for a face to fight more aggressively.

Personally… that's an incredibly reckless thing to do, but Staraptor seemed confident. Zenara's eyes lit up and she grinned, the bulb on her tail shining bright as her wool let loose a powerful bolt of lightning right at Lou. I could barely see Lou glance behind him as the bolt made its way toward him, yet he did not move.

Instead, he seemed to… lax his body as he was zapped from behind. His thorax began to glow brilliantly as he charged up his body and launched himself straight towards Staraptor with brilliant speed.

He attempted to stop Lou's charge with more Air Slashes, but he blasted right through them as he opened his mandibles and pinned Staraptor's wings in a vice grip. Lou buzzed fiercely as he electrocuted the unsuspecting bird in midair, frying him sufficiently and to ensure he could not peck his way out.

He then turned to Zenara and charged Staraptor first towards her, body blocking any of her attacks with Staraptor. Zenara almost seemed to amp up her attacks as he did, continuing to blast in his direction while sending some shock waves to his thorax, leaping out of the way just before the two crashed into the rock she was standing on. Her eyes were gleaming excitedly.

Once the dust settled we all looked upon a dazed Staraptor sprawled upon the hill. Lou sprayed him down with webbing so he could not easily get up again, scoffing at the sight. The Professor winced in turn.

He then turned to Zenara with a much more friendly demeanor. [I knew you wouldn't disappoint, soldier. But I assume I needn't lend you more handicaps to hit me?]

She stuck her tongue out at him before grinning, saluting with her tail. [Not even a little, Loulou! Let's rumble!]

And with that, she charged headlong at him with a wide smile on her face, her wool crackling with energy. Lou returned that energy by focusing green energy into his mandibles as he charged towards her. The two collided, their energy clashing and bursting instead of coalescing as it had for Lou's evolution. Both parties were thrown back, Lou needing only to buzz his wings to halt himself in midair.

Zenara, meanwhile, was sent rolling backwards. Instead of stopping herself though, she curled into a ball and spun faster, surrounding herself with bolts of electricity. She took a wide arc, turning around before launching herself at Lou again. I caught a small smile on Violet's face, and a bigger one on Amethyst's.

Lou consumed himself in a veil of bug energy, likening himself to a fighter jet as he clashed with Zenara again. Once more they recoiled before crashing again and again. We all watched in awe until I looked to see what Froberge had stood to find he was gone.

He's finally hunting.

I turned to see his glimmering eyes hidden within the shadows of Lou's blindspot as he prepared himself to clash again with a rolling Zenara. Pure combat instinct kicked in as he switched gears to spray Zenara with thick webbing to slow her roll as he ascended out of Froberge's possible reach.

The webbing stuck to Zenara's wool, easily dragging her to an abrupt halt still in a ball. Instead of getting upset, I noticed her pause, thinking of how to try and get out of the net. Unfortunately for Lou, flying higher was not enough to evade Froberge as he easily leaped into the sky and swatted Lou back to the ground with a mighty Night Slash.

Forced back on ground level, a cloud of dust billowed as Lou righted himself while he began spraying webbing at the charging Froberge. Rather than be slowed he cut his way through every attempt until he was right on top of Lou. Preparing for a clash, Lou slashed with an X-scissor, but this time he was the one pushed back by Froberge's Night Slash.

"Luxray pack a wallop. Fighting up close is not the move here," Jade noted.

"Usually," I retorted. "Every mon has their blind spot."

Froberge began to run towards Lou only to find the paw he had hit Lou covered in webbing and he had just firmly planted it into the ground. Annoyed, he ripped his paw out and shocked the webbing before charging again. Buying Lou enough time to counter attack.

Taking advantage of his delay Lou zoomed by to slash Froberge once again. Froberge immediately slashed back, but this time slightly weaker due to lack of time. Now clashing on more equal footing, they were each pushed slightly away with Lou already having fired a powerful thunderbolt using his remaining evolution energy to expedite the beam.

Froberge lowered himself to dodge then pounce until Zenara leapt right in the line of fire, grinning madly. I saw both Froberge and Lou's eyes widen as it hit her dead on, sending her rocketing over Froberge's head and tumbling end over end before she slammed against another stone pillar, upside down.

There was quiet for a moment before we saw her legs wiggle happily and she let out a dazed [That was awesome! I wanna do that again!]

"Actually, I think that's more than good enough," Volkner interjected immediately as he turned to Violet. "You should definitely check on her. I think she's too excited to register pain."

Violet nodded quietly, but she didn't look any more worried than she usually would be as she walked to Zenara. Amethyst glanced at the sky for a moment before smiling, looking at Volkner. [Her brain isn't getting enough pain signals to be worrying, at least.]

Froberge and Lou relaxed as well whilst Rowan went to check up on Staraptor.

I made my way over to Lou, sizing him up as he landed on the ground. His body was crackling less and he seemed a bit more comfortable in his own skin.

"You feelin' stable?" I asked.

[For now… there are many aspects of myself I'd like to iron out sooner than later, but currently I feel… looser,] He answered.

"Don't worry, I watched the whole thing. We'll fix you up with new strategies in no time," I promised as I gestured to his teammates. "And these two will help every step of the way."

[I'll help with most of the steps,] Donut corrected me. [I can't hold Lou's hand leg thing the whole way through.]

[I can! If he wants to, but I dunno how he's gonna train like that,] Holyn volunteered.

[Neither will be necessary, I am just grateful for all of your support,] Lou commended.

"Support is what I aim to provide to the fullest," Violet stated with a very giggly Zenara in her arms. "And I believe Amethyst and Zenara would wish as much."

Zenara shook her head to shake away the dizziness before smiling brightly at Lou. [Now you've got lots more to teach!]

Amethyst couldn't help but chuckle, floating over. [I dunno how much mind flying translates to wing flying, but I'll give whatever pointers I can.]

[I appreciate any aid you may provide. I will not allow any assistance go wasted,] Lou thanked them. [Zenara, you fought well out there. I do not know my own strength yet, but you handled this fight well. That is commendable.] She gave a happy bleat in response.

"Course she zapped her own ally making things harder, but ah well," Jade shrugged.

Lou scoffed. [Her 'ally' was a bird, as if she'd truly align herself with one. He got in the way and was punished for it. That is all.]

[The bird was a meanie face,] Zenara said with surprising firmness for how bleary of a statement it was. [I don't fight for meanie faces.]

"Ahem," Professor Rowan interrupted, causing us all to turn to him. "That was quite the bout, but I believe it's time we returned to the lab. Staraptor most certainly needs healing and I believe staring at any more flashing lights at my age would prove detrimental. I've prepared a lunch for us all as well to feed our famished fighters."

[You'll be able to use your new mouth Lou, isn't this exciting?] Cenza cheered.

[Not everything about evolution is so fascinating, Cenza,] Lou sighed. [But I suppose even the air tastes different now, so perhaps my food preferences have as well. Either way… I am indeed quite famished]

Amethyst swooped down to Cenza's level, whispering in her ear. [Evolution is totally that exciting, he's just being a sourpuss,] she affirmed. Cenza giggled in amusement as they discussed amongst themselves on how he always has to be the coolest one in the room.

I couldn't help but smile. Today was a great day and it could only get better. Well I hope it got better.

How do I explain to Volkner I reawakened a long lost legendary? Hmmm… thinking about it like that, I see why I stress him out.

---

~x6x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Sinnoh Research Lab Pasture

The whole group took a pleasant stroll back down the electric zone hill through the pasture all the way to the lab's dining hall. Everyone was beginning to catch up or reacquaint themselves as we went along our way, but I couldn't stop scanning the area to see if Rogelio had popped up.

Surely he intends on introducing himself by the end of the day? Lou's evolution has been completed, Holyn has been properly introduced, that should suffice by now.

[So, what brain blast adventure did you have?] Amethyst prodded, floating up next to my head.

I was still looking off into the distance, searching for a familiar green bud. Too distracted to notice Amethyst.

She promptly sat on my head and flicked my nose with one of her tails.

"Oi! What are you doing up there?"

[Not being ignored anymore,] she replied slyly, hovering upside down in front of my face with her arms crossed. [Somethin's going through your head, and whatever it is it's not what used to be there. So c'mon, spill the beans.]

"I'm trying to find it you see," I explained, albeit poorly. "I was hoping to show then tell, that's always more fun. Until what you want to show dips right before the fun."

She rolled her eyes. [Sure, tell that to your hours spent geeking out over tech.] Her expression changed to a small but genuine grin. [I getcha though, we can wait. Someone's gotta be air traffic control of your brain, y'know?]

"Much appreciated. Hopefully you don't have to wait long. In fact, if the surprise doesn't show up soon I'll just tell you while we eat," I compromised.

She nodded, satisfied, before floating back over into Violet's waiting arms. Who simply exchanged a look with her before nodding at me. I gave her a small smile before looking away, continuing on our way.

It didn't take long to finally reach the lab dining room. It was only then did Amethyst's ears perk up, subconsciously it seemed, judging by the surprised expression on her face. She hyper focused on the dining hall, leering at it inquisitively. Violet looked on in confusion, awaiting an explanation. Everyone else stopped to look at her as well inquisitively.

[Topaz?] Amethyst questioned warily. I raised a brow. [I really fuckin' hope what I'm feeling is the surprise. Otherwise we're gonna find out how many people I can teleport at once.]

[What do you feel?] Cenza inquired cautiously.

[Oh, y'know, just a psychic legendary that isn't one of the Lake Guardians or the Crescent Moon,] She nearly shouted.

Jade folded his arms, eyeing her suspiciously. "Are you saying you're familiar with those legendaries' psychic signatures? Have you… met them, perhaps?"

She gave him an incredulous look. Ignoring Jade, my expression brightened as well as the rest of my team. Earning more confused looks from everyone else sans Rowan.

"Seems our special guest has decided to make himself known," Professor Rowan hummed as he opened the door to the dining hall.

It was a spacious room with several well-crafted wooden tables and chairs placed about neatly. There was a large window with a view of the pasture and from the window I could see there was a patio outside to eat as well.

In the center of the dining hall was a long, wooden table covered with a tablecloth with an intricate design depicting many Sinnoh pokemon. At the head of the table sat Rogelio, cross legged and floating, sipping from a medieval goblet. When we all entered the room he eyed us all coolly before he took an extra large sip, unfolded his legs and landing on the table.

"Good greetings and salutations. I am pleased to finally meet you all with flesh and bone. My name is Rogelio the Calyrex, legendary of kings, lord of bounty and uniter of bonds," He gave us a fanciful bow before rising up again. "A pleasure to make your future friendship."

"Did you spend all that time rehearsing that while we were all celebrating Lou's evolution?" I scolded him as I walked over to the table with the group.

[Excuse my bluntness Rogelio, but I would've preferred you had consulted me before making any grandiose monologues or greetings. You still seem to be a novice. Your cadence did not befit one who calls himself legendary of kings,] Lou advised.

"And how would you know!?" Rogelio sputtered, taken aback, but definitely listening.

[I-,] Lou began before shaking his head. [-will explain at a later time. It feels inappropriate to ramble right now.]

[Evolution really does make you mature. I was expecting a whole tangent,] Donut shrugged.

[Rogelio, did you see Lou evolve! Wasn't it epic?] Holyn asked.

Rogelio patted his head pleasantly. "I witnessed the whole event. It was quite grand I must say, well done. It was loud, bright and volatile, but I am quite overjoyed I got to witness it all in person. The strength of your bonds filled me with joy."

He turned to me next. "I had attempted to conceal my presence so as to not disturb anyone. Ironically since I'm rather weak, it was relatively easy. Although I believe our esper feline friend may have noticed me a tad at some point, I made sure to correct my mistake."

Amethyst sighed. [Well, that explains the brief signature I got. We were kinda busy, so I didn't look into it, but yeesh.]

Violet, meanwhile, was already bowing. "It is an honor to meet you, Lord Rogelio."

Some part of my mind registered that she knelt to Lou, but bowed to Rogelio. Unlike Lou, Rogelio seemed to eat it up.

"It is an honor to meet you as well Miss Violet, Miss Amethyst," He mused, before floating towards them. "I saw what you each did for the Kalos pokemon and to the poachers that hurt them. Your love for the innocent and desire to save them were all too clear to me. If I could I'd knight you both right now… but I won't. Because I can't. Alas."

"Thank you my lord, but your kindness outstrips my capabilities. The now free Pokemon deserve much more than what I was able to provide, I simply did the most that I could."

Zenara was quiet, looking between Lou, and Violet and Amethyst, before walking up to Rogelio. He gazed down at her. "Oh hello young Zenara or well… you seem to be growing up considering how you handled Lou's attack. Regardless, good greetings to you as well."

She tilted her head and sniffed him before sitting down. [Are you cool?]

[He's something alright…] Donut muttered from behind Rogelio, earning him a stern glare. He didn't care though.

"Well I am-"

"Uh yeah no, this is too casual, I need more than this," Jade loudly interrupted. "Let's dial it back to the whole legendary pokemon bit and extrapolate from there because the fuck?"

I cringed in sympathy towards him. The conversation had kind of left all realm of proper explanation behind and Jade was not a fan of being kept out of the loop. He's made that very clear the past few months. Even Flax and Shizu seemed to share a look of annoyance at the lack of explanation. Volkner had remained quiet on the side, but even him and his team seemed at a loss for words.

"Language, Jade," Rogelio reminded. "But I am glad to meet you and your fellows as well. I know Topaz cherishes your bond a great deal and I find your personalities make for a… colorful pair."

Jade just stared at him with even more confusion.

[How would you know anything about Jade? Speak plainly,] Flax demanded. Rogelio seemed a bit shaken by his coldness.

Volkner stepped up to Professor Rowan. "What am I looking at here, exactly?"

"Was my introduction insufficient?" Rogelio asked.

"Yes," Volkner answered immediately. "I would like to know how I let Topaz and his team go on a little road trip for like two weeks and I come to see him cozy with a… a Caly…?"

"Calyrex," I answered.

"Yeah… I don't know that one. Definitely not my area," Volkner admitted. Froberge and his team looked eager for answers as well.

[It's unlike you to blindside us, Roland,] Froberge inquired, mischievously. [Has being with Topaz made you go softer than even myself?]

[Rogelio insisted we handle Lou's evolution first and I was willing to wait, I am as firm as I've always been,] Roland defended.

[Ummm… how come you're talking to us like you've known us for a long time?] Cenza asked Rogelio with some concern.

[What is a Calyrex to us? Are you here to offer us something?] Shizu questioned, vaguely interested.

I could sense some unease enter some of their hearts. Noticeably though Amethyst and Violet seemed to take it in stride. Amethyst seemed alarmed by an unknown legendary initially, but otherwise recovered. Violet treated him about as well as she treats every other pokemon, but maybe a smidge more formally. Zenara was generally fearless and was currently processing.

"I believe you've sated your need for shock factor," Professor Rowan presumed for me and Rogelio. "I believe it's time we give them the full story."

I nodded in agreement before addressing the others. "Finally, no more secrets and no more surprises. We lay everything out here." I took a breath.

[Rogelio's been in Topaz' head for months at least, so that's why he's familiar with us,] Amethyst interjected.

"Amethyst!" I whined. "I'm trying to explain everything in an organized, yet dramatic manner!"

She simply turned back to me with a cheeky, feline smile. ['s whatcha get for being vague.]

[Huh!? How do you know that?] Cenza asked.

[I could feel something was… different, about Topaz' brain than most. Even accounting for psychic trauma, it didn't explain everything. Especially how… not Topaz the other bit felt. Too separate for it to even be something like a split personality. I can talk with those. So I knew something was up, but I didn't really have much to go off of. I definitely wasn't expecting…] she gestured to Rogelio. [All of this to be hiding in his brain.]

"I am sure you never thought your fateful encounter in a Mankey filled forest would result in this, did you?" Rogelio joked. "The bonds Topaz and his friends forged with you all empowered me, so I can say you all had a hand in this meeting as well."

Violet inclined her head. "An honor to be of service."

"Yeah yeah, the explanation please?" Jade insisted.

Violet raised an eyebrow at Jade. "I see you know naught of your roots."

"My roots? What are you on about?" Jade scoffed until something clicked. "Are you talking about Galar… that name Calyrex… from the fairy tales? That's actually true?"

"I do not know what fairy tales of Calyrex are true or not; as none of them depict me specifically I cannot truly attest to their fact or falsity," Rogelio answered honestly. "But Professor Rowan, Sir Topaz and myself can relay to you my origin if it appeases all whom it concerns."

And so we finally told the whole story, told from every participant's point of view, answering whatever questions came. Starting from my dream in Oreburgh City of the mysterious voice in my head. The reason we traveled to Sandgem to learn who that voice was from the most informed pokemon expert in the region. To how Rogelio was all about forging bonds of friendship and all that for some reason.

I skimmed over the Cole and Jubilee encounter, but it seemed like Volkner and the others knew all about that mess.

I then fast forwarded to the learning from Rowan about Rogelio possibly being a Calyrex. The awkward part was explaining the bits about my father and Rhea's involvement, but I tried to do it as simply as possible before moving on to how we figured Mesprit could assist us. Violet seemed to understand my desire to hasten that part of the story.

Professor Rowan and I took turns explaining my… ritual to them from an insider and outsider perspective. That part seemed to intrigue everyone the most. The lake guardians rarely directly interact with mortals.

Finally we explained what happened directly after when Rogelio was summoned, taking him to the pokemon center all the way to… now.

[It was a short but interesting journey,] Roland reminisced. [I've done quite a bit of exploring with Volkner when we were younger, but we never had something like this happen to us. I'm glad I got to witness it in person though. It was a holy sight.]

Volkner nodded at that, his arms folded and his mind a buzz with thoughts. His team had absorbed every word and did not interrupt a single time.

Everyone else had listened intently to the whole story, ruminating on it in their own way. Jade had a more mixed expression, I dunno about what, but he did seem grateful I added the part where we watched him win his tournament. It wasn't necessary to the story, but I was sure he'd like it.

Zenara smiled up at Rogelio. [That definitely sounds really cool, so you're cool to me! Though you gotta take fancy word lessons from Loulou if he says so, okay?]

Rogelio looked astonished, but submitted. "I-if I must…"

[So you've been in Topaz's head all that time?] Cenza asked.

"Yes, in order to grow. We are now independent in body, but bound as friends forever," He answered.

Zenara seemed to hear what she needed to hear and was satisfied. Now what was going on in Violet and Amethyst's head wasn't entirely clear to me. Course they could've just been silently absorbing the story, but neither had interrupted either.

"Do you have a sanctuary yet, Lord Rogelio?" Violet asked respectfully.

He shook his head. "No I do not. I have nothing material in this world. Besides this goblet I borrowed from Miss Kirlia."

Violet nodded, looking at Volkner. "It is imperative we assist him in his search for a sanctuary."

Amethyst, meanwhile, gave him a curious look. [Can you go in and out of Topaz' brain? Or are you physical for good?]

"As Athena burst from Zeus' head I am physical through and through and cannot return to whence I came," He replied. "Sir Topaz's mind is all his own now, but I am thankful for such a nurturing place to grow in."

[Let's be glad this one didn't involve a hammer, huh?] She looked at me. [And you feel fine? No headaches or lingering hypothermia?]

"I meant to ask as well, Topaz. I would like to conduct some tests to ensure your psychic stability considering your history," Rowan inquired.

"Honestly… I feel better than ever. Not to say I dislike Rogelio being gone, but now I just feel… more complete. I'm not sure how to describe it," I answered. I figured the experience fixed some long repressed trauma or just the idea that my dad has always been looking out for me and others was nice. "Either way, telepathy and all that stuff shouldn't bother me ever again. My mind is the best it's ever been."

"So you're truly the last Calyrex?" Jade inquired. "You've come all the way from Galar to be reborn here? It's just… I only remembered your name from storybooks Mum used to read me. They were rare books she got when she was on her journey back when she was a teenager. I never gave it too much thought…"

"That's alright. No one has given my kind much thought in centuries," Rogelio stated bluntly, but he shook his head. "My apologies, that came off as resentful and blunt. I bear no ill will towards the people of Galar. It's a shame what has happened to my kind, but I hoped I could find a home here in Sinnoh. According to your own legends, this place was a haven for foreign legends at a time, so I hope it can be one for myself."

If looks could kill, I was sure Violet's would've wiped out every human in Galar. But she simply stayed quiet for the moment.

[It has certainly become a new home for Cenza and I,] Lou added.

[It can be chilly outside, but I've never felt warmer when I met everyone,] Cenza added.

Amethyst gave Rogelio a warm smile. [Sinnoh's a region that cares about everyone who lives in it. Humans might suck everywhere, but a place where Topaz and Violet come from can't be all that bad.]

Volkner stepped forward. "Legendary pokemon… I am well versed in all sorts of pokemon, but they still elude me. Either way, if there's anything we can do to secure your safety please allow us. I would actually like to loop Cynthia and the League into this as well, if you'd allow us."

"This may be our first physical encounter, Volkner, but I trust you, Cynthia and the League just as Topaz does. I would be honored to be in your care," He bowed graciously.

Volkner returned it with a slight nod as he turned to Violet. "You mentioned a sanctuary?"

She nodded immediately. "Legendary Pokemon are avatars of the natural world. A sanctuary that is attuned to their specific domain is important generally, but even moreso when one is in a weakened state. As Lord Rogelio is recently corporeal, such an area is paramount to his continued health and growth."

"I see…" Rogelio whispered.

[Were you not aware of this? Shouldn't you already know?] Flax questioned.

"Well… it makes sense and I understand some aspects of my being on an instinctual level, but… typically Calyrex learn from the reigning lord and our knowledgeable followers, but… I lack those. I must make do with what I can get," Rogelio admitted, although I could tell he was embarrassed. "My apologies once again, I am not quite the legendary one may expect."

"There is nothing to apologize for, nor are you the cause of your predicament," Violet instantly assured. "We all must begin somewhere. That you must learn your way as others must will no doubt assist in your becoming a superb leader."

[There may not be a reigning lord or followers to guide you, but I hope we can assist you as faithful friends,] Froberge suggested.

"Besides, we have time to learn," I added. "And a lot of knowledgeable friends that can teach. It may be different than what your predecessors learned, but I doubt you could find a better foundation than us."

Rogelio hummed, feeling much better. "And I would prefer no other group than those before me."

"This has been quite the day," Jade exclaimed. "Of course, I'd be delighted to aid you as well Lord Rogelio in any way possible. My team as well of course."

Shizu barked in affirmation meanwhile Flax gave a slow nod as if he hadn't yet decided on helping Rogelio until Jade confirmed. Rogelio gave the trio a pleasant smile in return.

[Okay, this has all been very nice, but I've been sniffing the food for the past ten minutes and it smells too good, so can we talk and eat now? Or just eat, I'd love to just eat,] Donut complained.

[You are insatiable… but I would have to agree in this instance. I am remarkably famished, I genuinely cannot remember being so hungry in my life,] Lou admitted. [This body requires ample electricity and carbohydrates. Bring me the beignets!]

We all couldn't help but laugh at Lou's uncharacteristic demand for pastries, but no one had any intention of depriving him any longer. We had witnessed a brilliant evolution, met new friends and now could have a meal amongst them. It was time we partook in that.

~Chapter 34 Fin~

---

Question: Who should evolve next?

Author's Note: A very long chapter, but I am quite pleased with everything that happened within it. Lou's evolution prolly should've happened sooner, but it had to be big and theatrical as he deserves and I hope this did him justice. He's now got a proper body, so that'll make writing more fun and Vikavolt are horribly underused… but that makes writing them more fun and unique!

I hope Rogelio being a Calyrex isn't too contrived also how it relates to Topaz's dad and Rhea. It's a rehashing of an old idea that was messy, but too late to change. This was the simplest way to go about it. It happens, but I don't see it happening again. Besides, he's lovable and we're glad to have him.

Co-author's Note: I'm proud of that evolution sequence. I prettied it up a bit, and I think it came out nice. Also, that rehash of an old idea? Don't worry too much about it. This one has been planned for a while, it's not like it came outta nowhere. It's moreso an adaptation of something best left to die in the drafts.

---

Gym Trainer: Topaz Heart

Class: Junior Gym Trainer

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

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

x

Donut (Pikachu/M)

Equip: Eviolite.

Moves: Thunderbolt, Thunder, Iron Tail, Brick Break, Quick Attack, Rollout, Tickle, Charge, Thunder Wave.

Ability: Static Chance to paralyze opponent upon physical contact.

Likes: Pastries, sweets, naps, relaxing, quiet, Topaz's bag.

Dislikes: Bitter food, stress, stupid decisions, feeling alone.

x

Lou (Vikavolt/M)

Moves: X-scissor, Wild Charge, Acrobatics, Mud Shot, Iron Defense, Screech, Dig, String Shot, Thunder, Bug Buzz (Learned upon evolution).

Ability: Levitate Able to float; Immunity to ground elemental attacks.

Likes: Bugs, war, General Topaz, usurping oppressors.

Dislikes: Birds, criminals, condescension, threats to allies.

x

Holyn (Cranidos/M)

Equip: Hard Stone.

Moves: Headbutt, Leer, Focus Energy, Pursuit, Ice Beam, Stone Edge.

Ability: Mold Breaker Bypass enemy ability.

Likes: Friends, playing, TV dramas.

Dislikes: Friends arguing, sad endings.

x

Human Companion: Violet

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

x

Gym Leader: Volkner Beacon

Team: Roland (Electivire), Froberge (Luxray), Zerbino (Magnezone), Marsil (Ambipom), Ganelon (Octillery).

x

Celebrity: Jade Forrest

Co-Actors: Flax (Roselia), Shizu (Houndour), ? (Dottler).