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.

50. Yellow, Green, Blue & Violet (Ch50)

{}=Pokemon Speaking; =Telepathic Speaking

Note: Please read the author's note for a celebratory statement.

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We've come quite far in this tale by now, but we can only go further. Soon we shall-

Hush, infant, this is not your day.

Infant?!

Are you not a newborn?

Er…

Precisely. Now then. On this day, you shall discover more about those clad in lilac and cobalt. For life rarely goes as we expect it to, but it is our duty to face the day and seize it, come what may. So now you learn more about those who listen to the will of the world, endeavoring to aid it at every turn and cut down those who would harm it with due justice. And they do so wonderfully.

---

~x1x~

PoV: Jade Forrest

Location: Flax's Eden - Sunyshore City

Time: Mid April - Noon

{So did Amethyst give you a time when they'd be here?} Shizu asked.

"No, but Violet did say I better be here when they arrive," I replied. "In her own pleasant way."

Today was the day Meliae had promised. I dunno why this arbitrary day specifically, but I awoke with a message saying my team and I should remain here to meet them. Flax was standing stationary, his roses to the sky watching out for Meliae so he wasn't caught off guard again. Shizu sat right next to me, while Gautier was chilling.

Garland, Dijon and me mum were also keen on meeting the new fairies. They sat at the outdoor table enjoying tea and cookies, having their own conversation. Dad was at his cousin's birthday party so he was occupied.

{Do you think they'll like it here more than the sanctum? They had an entire wilderness far away from humans, and now they're moving to a garden in a human city?} Gautier questioned.

{Where they'll be protected by powerful pokemon. Plus, there were a lot of them there. Some of them prolly want their own space to set their territory,} Shizu figured.

{I suppose so. I hope it meets their expectations. I, personally, love it here. It's great for concentrating,} Gautier replied.

{I personally like rolling in the grass. It smells amazing,} Shizu responded.

"What we lack in quantity, we make up for in quality. Garland and Dijon helped us make it the best it can be, I know they'll love it. We just need to sell it right, no different than what we usually do," I reminded them.

They each nodded in comfort at my words. Speaking of Flax, he had shifted his body westward, raising his roses even higher. {They're here.}

The only time Meliae looked small was when she was still far away. By her side was Lou carrying Topaz and Donut. As Meliae flew over, her pace slowed until she was hovering a few dozen meters above the garden. Careful not to trample anything, she lowered herself more gently than you'd expect from a gargantuan tree dinosaur before thudding against the ground.

Lou dropped off Topaz and Donut gently. Amethyst flew off Meliae first, with Violet, Holyn, Cenza and Zenara jumping after her while Rheneas seemed to be amidst a bunch of Flabebe and Floette.

{Say hi to the party from Rosary Sanctum!} Zenara cheered.

Several Flabebe and Floette immediately flew off of Meliae's back to look around the garden, joyfully finding all the places Flax took so much time tending to and immediately began asking highly technical questions only meadow savvy folks understood. He took to giving them the full tour immediately, answering any questions they had and informing them of all the species we had in the garden.

Topaz and Violet convened around me as we watched Flax give his grand tour.

"So you went along?" I questioned Topaz.

"I've never been on a long flight with Lou. I had to give it a try and this was a good enough reason," he chuckled.

"While you were out flying, I've been put to work. When I told Flax the Flabebe were coming today he made us get Garland and Dijon so we could make sure the garden was perfect. He has a whole philosophy about it, listen," I explained, gesturing towards him.

{The atmosphere we've cultivated is the Garden of Eden, for if sins are committed upon its grass then the perpetrator will be eternally damned for tarnishing the sanctity of such a divine place,} Flax explained, gesturing to his apple blossom roses to showcase the symbolism. {I wanted to create a safe haven for those who appreciate the beauty of the delicate and clean. A place so grand that if I were banned from ever entering, life would hold no meaning. You understand, yes?}

The Flabebe and Floette began nodding in earnest, noting the use of color and how they matched the themes as they began examining the flowers, speaking in quick and hushed approval while Flax watched with bated breath.

"Jade… I-," Topaz began.

"When and why did you teach Flax about Christianity?" Violet spoke evenly, so as to not disturb Flax, but she was giving me a look as though I was exactly what she expected me to be. Which, knowing her, was a helluva insult.

"He came up with all of that on his own. That's an original Flax idea, it just so happens to draw… some parallels to religious texts," I answered, as Flax continued his tour. "Plus, explain how the fairies understand all his references!"

"Is it cuz they're… westerners?" Topaz asked Violet cautiously, but even she had to shrug.

{It was extreme and passionate while said in the most even, monotone voice. Definitely an original Flax thought,} Donut concurred from Topaz's shoulder. {We just need a legend to bless it- oh wait, Rogelio prolly already did that.}

{I didn't care much for his imagination at first, but he did say I was in charge of enacting the damnation, so I'm okay with it,} Shizu joined in, sitting upright.

Violet just pinched the bridge of her nose, eyes closed as she exhaled heavily. Amethyst, meanwhile, flew over. {Well I think it's about time he got some more friends his own size and interests, so I'm glad he's getting that. Maybe he'll mellow out a bit in the process. Get a new shine to him or something.}

Topaz and Donut exchanged a deeply skeptical look. I frowned at them and they turned right around to avoid my piercing gaze.

"Oh goodness, aren't these the most adorable pokemon? I've never seen a species so tiny. They're so precious and they've come with so many flowers!" Mum remarked as Flabebe danced upon her hands. Her eyes sparkled with a child-like joy as they floated around her and Garland.

He had a serene smile on his face, watching them fly around and whispering softly to a few that flew in closer. I noticed several gravitated immediately to Dijon, who was happy to praise them and their flowers just as much as they praised him in return. "I'm glad you've come to help Flax, Jade, and his family. We're right next door if you need anything from us, alright?"

{We have plenty of flowers and other plants we grow, so if they ask for something or you need it, we're always happy to help!} Dijon warbled contentedly.

I hadn't seen both of them so enthused in quite awhile. I could practically feel their hearts jumping in quiet joy.

Amethyst was actually doing a pretty good job at keeping Zenara distracted. For whatever reason she seemed fit to burst with excitement, but knew Flax wouldn't appreciate that. She did get a huge smile on her face every time a Flabebe or Floette flew up to her, using her new hands to touch theirs when they extended them.

I continued watching for a bit as Flabebe and Floette began to dance around Holyn, Gautier and Cenza. Shizu remained at my side, so I figured that was why they kept their distance until Flax led the group over to me. As he did, both Topaz and Violet took a step back.

{This is Jade, you might know him as Thorn. He is the most precious person in the world to me and the reason why I was able to create this garden. Everything good in my life started with him, so please… be nice,} Flax said simply and honestly, looking up at me with a small smile. Which meant a lot from him.

Not wanting to disappoint, I stepped forward amongst the fairies. "Artist, gardener, trainer, alchemist, fighter, celebrity. I have many titles, but I am most honored to be called Flax's number one. All of you please, make yourselves at home," I endorsed, opening my arms to appear more welcoming.

Shizu, still by my side, eyed the Flabebe who were coming around but still hesitant. Flax noticed this before pointing to her. {This is Shizu, the guard hound of the eden. Her duty is to burn to ash any who harms those that live here. So if you need someone exterminated, ask her.}

{That's what I'm here for,} Shizu stated, nodding at the fairies. {You ain't gotta worry about me.}

Now this won them over. As now they began to float around all of us pleasantly, dancing around my head and even hopping on Shizu's back. They emitted the most pleasant aroma that filled me with a deep calm. A sort of calm I hadn't felt in so long. The energy they brought felt like the missing piece we were missing for the garden. Except, I noticed some Flabebe, the especially small ones, were still missing flowers and clinging to Floette.

I turned to Topaz and Violet for an explanation. "How come not all of them have flowers?"

Topaz squinted at the select few. "They look like babies to me. Can't be more than a few days old so it's likely they haven't chosen their flower yet."

"Flabebe choose a flower to reside on and grow with that matches their specifications," Violet spoke simply. "They wish to find a flower from the garden of their people's savior."

"Interesting," I said, acknowledging their answers as I turned to Flax. "Hear that, Flax? Whatever flower they choose will be with them the rest of their life. We've gotta choose the best ones for them, alright mate?"

Flax's eyes lit up at the prospect. {I already have some in mind.}

With that Flax and I gathered the flowerless Flabebe and their Floette caretakers, guiding them towards the most precious flowers of the season. Typically, these would be the ones Flax would take the most care with, ask me to paint or press into a book to save forever. Yet, here he guided a baby Flabebe to the blue chrysanthemum he'd been obsessing over for weeks now and went, {This one… she speaks to you, yes?}

The Flabebe's little head wings fluttered in excitement, reaching for the flower. Smiling at the sight, Flax stepped back as the Flabebe detached from their cohort and flew to their chosen chrysanthemum. Imbuing the stem with fairy essence, they took the flower and a sufficient amount of the stem before flying on their own in sheer joy.

If anyone else had taken that flower, he would've lost his shit.

From there Flax and I took the time to guide each baby to the flower that spoke to them, that resonated with their being. Some were easy, while others were incredibly particular, but Flax was remarkably patient as we worked out who would fit who based on their personality without any assistance. It took some time, but once we did all the babies flew around showing off their new forever flowers.

{That was a beautiful thing you two did,} Gautier complimented, as he waddled beside us.

{I never knew you had a knack for kids,} Shizu added, sitting beside me.

{We share a common interest,} Flax stated simply. {I want to foster that interest and inspire more to decorate the world. To fill it with color and life where it is needed most. Helping them can achieve that… and it was fun. Helping others that understand me.}

"It suits you, Flax," I added.

{It suits you too, Jade,} Flax shot back immediately, garnering some surprise from me. {I don't mind doing the performances and TV business if that's what you want to do. It has some merits,} he said, glancing at Gautier. {But one day… I'd like to do this and only this. With you and… the others.}

"Our friends?"

{Yes, them,} he replied quickly. {Like I said though, I do not mind going out more. Leaving my comfort zone is tedious, but productive. Battling is fine, but if it's to get what we want, then I will always win. I assure you.}

His devout determination to fight for what he needed, that intense drive and quiet passion. It was all coming back to me. Why I needed him before any Turtwig, Cherubi or any other grass type option. I couldn't help but chuckle at how perfectly we had turned out. Flax looked up at me in confusion as I smirked back at him.

"Are you speaking your mind or reading mine because I was thinking the exact same. Let's keep it up with all our endeavors, right mate?" I asked.

{Always,} he answered.

I heard Zenara giving an excited "eeeeeee" as a Floette floated over to Flax, tapping him on the shoulder gently. {Flax? There's something we've been wanting to give you.}

{Zenara, I don't eat or grow hay,} Flax replied flatly.

{It's not hay… this time!} She pouted.

I saw Rheneas bouncing over, the same bunch of Flabebe and Floette around her. What I hadn't noticed before was the fact that she was holding a brilliant, shining stone, a faint warmth coming from it. But more importantly, it looked as if a fraction of the sun itself slept within its glassy facets, slowly rotating with faint beams of light twirling softly.

{We saw how hard you fought, and how much it hurt you that Thorn got hurt so badly. He might be better now, but you're the kind of person who'll always remember that. When Amethyst and Nyx told us that you were looking for others to help upkeep and protect your garden, your home, like you protected ours? There wasn't any doubt in our minds. This is a gift from us, and everyone at the Rosary Sanctum,} Floette spoke as Rheneas held out the stone to Flax with a warm look.

{A shiny stone…} Flax whispered, as he stared in awe, his arms instinctively reaching for it.

We had discussed evolution before and Topaz said he'd give us a stone when we felt we were ready, but that was a while ago. We had forgotten how compelling it was for him to be around it.

{You saved our home, are giving us a new home, have already given our kin flowers they'll cherish for the rest of their lives. This is the least we can do to pay you back, and we'll do the rest making sure you don't have to worry about your garden anymore.}

{A welcoming gift for the patron, yes, that makes sense,} Flax considered, his eyes gazing back upon the stone. Likely terminology he picked up from my mum or working at Garland's shop.

I knelt beside him to urge him along. "If this were a movie, this'd be the perfect time to take it. Personally, I'd say this has been a long time coming. So if you're ready, then take it."

That was all Flax needed to hear. He reached out towards Rheneas as he placed both his roses onto the shining stone. The effect was immediate as the stone began to diffuse into motes of light across Flax's body, enveloping him in the same glow as the stone. We all took a step back as his body began to morph.

First, he began to grow, doubling- no, tripling in size as all of his limbs began to extend. The thorns atop his head began to open and blossom into a pure white rose. His leafy shoulderpads began to extend down his back forming a leafy cape. His red and blue rose arms began to sprout more flowers amongst them forming full bouquets at each arm. Finally, a leaf strip meshed with his face forming a mask as he opened his new bright red eyes.

With a final flourish, Flax spun his new arms around before stamping his feet into the ground, embedding his new power into the land. All around us the flora began to grow; buds bloomed, subtle scents became strong and even the water began to shimmer with newfound purity. Even the flowers held by the fairies resonated positively to his revitalization.

Once he had finished, he inhaled and exhaled deeply before looking upon himself. {I can already imagine my productivity increasing. Thank you,} he addressed Floette with a new voice.

It was still monotone, but it was more mature and suave. Grown. He had gone from a teenager to an adult.

The way he stood, naturally posing, carrying himself with a new aloofness and confidence in contrast to the inflexible Roselia he was before. From what I've seen most Roselia and Roserade were flashy and theatrical, but even evolution hadn't changed that. He was reserved, yet now he was serving a look of quiet fierceness.

{Woooow, Flax is so… chic now,} Holyn whispered in awe.

{Whatever angle you look at him, he is stanced picturesque. I am impressed,} Lou complimented.

{I would say don't let it all go to your head, but now even your head is a giant flower. How extra can you be?} Shizu questioned.

{Am I more or less extra than the hound who traded ears for devil horns?} Flax replied casually, as he flipped his petals to the side.

It was so fabulous Shizu couldn't even think of a retort. She just shook her head and accepted defeat.

{As majestic as you are, I am more interested in seeing what level of destructive force you can reach. How do you feel, Flax?} Gautier asked.

Flax lifted up his blue bouquet revealing multiple wriggling thorns that could shred whatever need be, while his red bouquet revealed a single sharp thorn that looked sharper than steel. {Extravagant.}

"I would say you look perfect, but that implies there's a limit to how amazing you can become. You are a beaut though, congrats on the evolution, Flax the Roserade," I praised him, earning a sly smile.

I then turned my attention to Meliae. "You've outdone yourself here, Meliae. This wouldn't have happened without you. Much appreciated."

She inclined her head towards the both of us. {And without your aid, we wouldn't be in a position to offer ours. I'm glad to have played a part in your growth already.}

{So coooooOOOOOOOOOOL!} Zenara shouted gleefully, running up to Flax. Just recently he would've cringed in annoyance, but here he gazed upon her calmly. {I knew you'd wanna evolve and you look awesome and I can't wait to fight you and congrats on evolving and getting tons of new friends you're gonna be around!}

{You and your team contributed to this, so thank you. As a reward, I'll give it my all next time we spar,} Flax replied as he eyed Lou and Donut. {Then I move onto them.}

Lou buzzed with anticipation, while Donut looked like he was about to have trauma flashbacks of being raked through thorns.

Amethyst whistled, floating up to playfully bop Flax on the shoulder. {A straight up thank you, huh? You've grown in more than just height. Speaking of, how you enjoying that?}

{You're smaller than I realized. You're always flying, I never noticed,} Flax noted calmly.

Yes, this was new. He didn't appear so unnatural around everyone, just a neutral calm now.

She chuckled. {Yeah, I get to cheat being short. Maybe you'll be able to make some giant thorny avatar for yourself if you wanna be even taller.}

{I can use my vines to carry me. The thorny avatar I'll save for later,} he answered honestly.

"I'm sorry, excuse me," Mum said as she rushed over to Flax to pull him into a big hug. "Flax, you're so gorgeous! You always were, but now you're all grown up. I remember when you first came home as the most adorable little Budew. No arms, all cute. I'm so proud!"

Flax smiled hearing that as he quietly returned her hug, but she pulled away quickly because she knew how he felt about prolonged physical contact. When she did though she looked at him with a somewhat forlorn expression. Flax caught it as well, but before he could say anything she stood up. "Anyway, Garland and I prepared a bunch of snacks for everyone. We found out what Flabebe likes to eat and hopefully it meets their standards. Everyone is free to join in as well."

"Ooooh, thank you Mrs. Forrest!" Topaz cheered, rushing over with Donut practically salivating over his shoulder.

{You're giving me a run for my money with how flowery you are now,} Dijon chuckled as he walked up to Flax.

Flax shook his head in adamant refusal. {I could never. You will forever stand out in whatever flower patch you're in as the most brilliant sunflower.}

Dijon just smiled at him warmly, Garland right beside him. "I'd be inclined to agree." He looked at both of us. "Congrats Flax on a big step forward, and Jade for helping him get here. We're proud of you both, and looking forward to what you do going forward."

"Thanks mates. I already have some ideas on what we can do. With Roserade poison we can concoct way stronger potions, so when we get the chance we wanna try that out back at the shop and see what happens," I replied before rolling my eyes. "And I guess we can ask Lyle and Alkali for help just this once."

That got a small laugh out of them both, giving us warm smiles. "You know our door's always open to the both of you. And your new friends," he noted with a glance at the bouquet of Flabebe and Floette floating around now. "I'd figure we're gonna see a lot more flowers around soon. That'll be a sight."

"A sight for your checking account too with all the fairy enhanced flowers you'll have in stock," I added.

{Oh, the fairy essence may have an effect on the potions as well,} Gautier noted.

{Fairy essence and my dark essence, wonder what mix that'll make?} Shizu pondered mischievously.

{I also want to see how my toxins will adjust to the recipes we have now,} Flax added, smiling. {So many new variables… I'm excited.}

"First, we get the fairies situated. Next, it's back to the potion making grind!" I cheered, hyping myself up.

Garland patted my back. "You're gonna do great things. I know ya will."

---

~x2x~

PoV: Jade Forrest

Location: Forrest Residence - Sunyshore City

Time: Days Later - Mid April - Noon

Almost a week had passed since the fairies arrived in Sunyshore and they were getting acclimated faster than I expected. I had wondered if they'd feel bored or restricted in the garden compared to all the space they had in the sanctum, but nope. The Floette have been scouting the neighborhood out to familiarize themselves with the area and tend to whatever flowers they found along the way.

The Flabebe remained in either the Eden or Garland's garden next door. When they weren't tending to the garden, they seemed content to just float around amongst beautiful flowers till the sun went down when they slept. I didn't understand, but couldn't complain.

My folks loved having them around. Most of them remained outdoors, but a few more adventurous ones would float on inside and watch us live our lives. Mum and Dad loved their company and overall I feel like everyone was happier all the time. Which made my mum's sudden declaration surprising.

"I'm going back to Galar to meet up with my old team," Mum stated, when I asked her why she was packing her old trainer bag. "I shouldn't be gone too long. Your father will be here to take care of you while I'm away."

Flax and I watched from her doorway as she began sifting through her stuff as she decided what to take. Two flabebe flew around the room hopping on the furniture in a game of tag.

"And what exactly brought this on?" I asked.

She sighed deeply, pausing her packing and she gestured towards Flax. "Flax, Shizu, Gautier, the fairies, even you Jade," she continued. "It was all of you!"

"Is that… good?" I questioned.

I couldn't recall doing anything bad enough to warrant her leaving the country. School was another story, but no one had evidence of me committing any pranks. Teachers have fled the country to avoid enduring another day with me in class. It was all warranted, I swear.

"Of course it is! You've revived a fire in my heart that I thought could be kindled just by association, but nope! I can't just sit by and watch you battle, train and bond with your pokemon as just your mother. I used to be a trainer, a damn good one at that! But I had been one for years, I was commentating battles more than actually training, focusing on my career as League MC. My relationship with your father was still fresh and we were considering jobs in Sinnoh, where I could manage contests and he could do… whatever he does for his company," she explained, holding up an old Galar league uniform. "I had just reached that age and point in my life that managing a full team was too much. Asking them all to come to a new region? I couldn't do that, we were all adults, they had a right to live their own lives. So, I helped them each find a home and now they've got their own families and friends in the wilds. I've got my wonderful life here with all of you… but, I still miss them."

{A reunion,} Flax pondered.

"You've never talked so much about your team before."

"We used to talk about them all the time when you were a little boy because you loved them all sooo much. But it's been so long since you've seen any of them you stopped asking," she reminded me. "But yes, all this fairy business has me feeling… nostalgic. So here we are, hope you don't mind."

"Seize your happiness Mum, but are you sure you'll be fine? If you're going into the wild shouldn't you-"

"Have someone there to protect me? In Sinnoh sure, but I'll just take a Corviknight Taxi or bike. I could ask the Chairman or my old contacts, but I don't want to make a fuss just for a little run through the nostalgia lane. I'm not really concerned," she said casually, as she packed her pepper spray. "Haven't you seen my battle tapes? I've been through my fair share of dynamax battles, I know how to avoid nukes."

Maybe I should take lessons from her.

{Mummy Lu's confidence is convincing. She'll be fine,} Flax noted, nodding at her in faith.

"I'm glad one of you believes in me," she smiled cheekily, packing away potions.

"Just stay away from psychotic primates and trees. Especially when they're together. Terrible combination," I added casually, earning worried looks from her and Flax. "Am I wrong?"

"I'll keep it in mind, sweetheart," Mum sighed as she packed a shimmering black orb into her bag as well. I had never seen it before.

"What's that?" I asked.

"Oh this? You don't remember?" She asked, picking it up. I didn't see anything out of the ordinary, but my trainer instincts said there was more to it that met the eye. "I'll show you when I get back, how about that? I think you and your friends would love it."

As I thought it was definitely pokemon centric if she said that. I had my own thoughts on the matter, but for now I only wished her the best.

---

~x3x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Route 222 Wilds

Time: Mid April - Noon

"Flax, does anywhere within a hundred meters feel any more connected to nature than elsewhere?" Violet asked, looking at her tablet while Amethyst floated next to her. Zenara was frolicking about, while Meliae and Rheneas were watching us curiously.

{North. Deeper into the forest… that way,} he said, pointing in what appeared to me was an arbitrary direction with vaguely larger shrubbery.

Violet nodded, walking in the direction he pointed while watching various sensors and graphs on her tablet. She said something earlier about wanting to take some readings from the local area and needing Flax's help, given how much greenery there was and Meliae not being as accustomed to the area yet.

Flax was initially surprised, but obliged. Naturally, Jade and his team followed along, all the time in Garland's alchemy area made them stir crazy and it's been awhile since we had walked through Route 222.

Lou suggested it'd be safer if we came as well if they planned on going deep into Route 222. North of the route the pokemon got obscenely strong, but I personally had never seen them. But considering Shizu, originating from 214, said the same, I felt it was good we went along as a group.

Violet and Amethyst seemed totally engrossed in whatever they were checking for, so Zenara looked at me. {Whatcha been working on?}

"Vika and I have been working on adding more elements to the grenades I use in a fight. They worked pretty well against the Heterupts, so we're hoping to add more so I can be prepared for any situation. Natural elements like fire, ice, and electricity are pretty straightforward. It's the abstract stuff like darkness, fighting and psychic that are harder to pin down."

She gave me a curious look. {You can't just bottle brain energy? I thought it'd be easy given how much of it you and Violet have between you.}

"The problem is, unlike pokemon, our brain energy stays firmly in our heads. Maybe we could pocket a psychic blast from Amethyst or Gautier, but Vika is considering all the options right now," I explained.

{Just lemme know if you need my help! I'm finally starting to understand all this tinkering stuff,} Zenara cheered.

{I'm sensing a stronger pull from this direction. I can sense insect influence too,} Flax alerted Violet, pointing to especially large flowers.

Lou's mandibles buzzed to confirm the notion before he lit up and flew straight to the front, blocking the way.

{Wait, a moment, I must inspect something. All of you stay here,} he asked before he flew off deeper into the forest.

{What was that about?} Amethyst questioned.

I looked around the forest to figure out what caused his sudden shift. I didn't sense any concern from him though. Then I noticed the large cobwebs in the trees, a faint honey scent and the plant life had turned a different shade of green.

"We must be close to the Hive," I answered.

"Of the Compound Corps, correct?" Violet asked.

"Yup," I said, sitting down on a log. "Just give him a second. Prolly giving them a heads-up. It's later than usual, but it's about time he reported to the leader."

Most of them vaguely knew what I was talking about from past discussions, so we all stood by for a few minutes awaiting Lou's return until several of our partners' ears perked up, and a few moments later I could hear why. A faint buzzing was in the air, getting louder with each passing second.

Soon, a swarm of six or so Combee trios flew up to us, circling Lou. {Soldiers, these are my Sunyshore comrades!}

They flew together in formation, nodding at us. {An ally to the Founder General is an ally of ours! A pleasure to make your acquaintance!}

{Violet!} Lou called. {They offer assistance, make your requests.}

She nodded, looking over at the Combee and standing at attention. Amethyst didn't say anything, but I could feel her groaning. "You know these lands better than I. Do you know of a nexus where energy from the land gathers naturally?"

The Combee looked at each other for a moment, then to Lou. {Apologies, sir, we're not high ranked enough to know much about that. But if you would come to the Hive, then I'm sure Chief Clover or General Tanya could inform you?}

{General Tanya? I see she's promoted, good. Yes, soldier, we'll take you up on that offer,} Lou buzzed, earning a pleasant buzz from them as he turned around to address the rest of us. {Most of you are already familiar with the Compound Corps and our ways, so I needn't say much. For those that aren't, we are not difficult people. Demonstrate common courtesy and respect for our ways and no ire will be drawn.}

{Jade, do you know them well?} Gautier asked, blinking with a bit more excitement than I'd ever seen from him.

"The Compound Corps' Combee are the ones who pollinate ours and Garland's gardens. So they're around our place most of the year. If they weren't cool with us, they'd have us thrown out by now," he explained casually. "Knowing them, they prolly have entire mental dossiers on all of us."

{They do. They are well updated on the events of Sunyshore. I rarely need to tell them anything. They'll find out on their own,} Lou elaborated.

Interestingly enough that made Gautier's carapace blink in pleasant turquoise and teal. He was definitely excited to enter the hive.

Violet put her tablet in its carrying case for a moment to pull out some earmuffs, giving them to Amethyst before taking out her tablet again while Amethyst put them on. She glanced at Lou as Violet kept monitoring her readings. {I don't mind saying hi to a bunch of bugs, but the noise can get to me. These are just so it's easier to keep my focus, that's all.}

Oh yeah, this is one of the rare instances where the bug susceptibility affects psychics.

"Rheneas, you're psychic too. Do you need your own? I've got your pokeball too if it gets overwhelming," I asked.

She gave me a grateful look. {If you have something, that'd be nice. Meliae's leaves only do so much against bug buzzing.}

I began searching through my bag quickly before pulling out some old earmuffs I hadn't used in ages. I couldn't remember if they were for Donut or another pokemon, but they fit on Rheneas' head nicely. Most electric types aren't bothered by loud sounds, but it's good to keep them around anyway.

"Lead the way," I replied.

The Combee buzzed happily, one trio splitting off to lead us while the other five continued their patrol. The direction they were leading us was actually in a similar direction to where Flax had been directing us, which I saw Violet taking note of.

As we kept walking, we passed some more patrols. Largely of Combee, but some with Vivillon, Butterfree and Dustox. Getting closer to the Hive, a few things changed. The trees were more overgrown, and both they and the bushes were nearly overburdened with berries. Anything that could support flowers and fruits was doing so, with plenty of vines forming trails between the branches of the canopy.

Moss and mushrooms grew more abundantly here as well, all seeming healthy and living in tandem with the flora of the forest. Meliae seemed quite fond of it, either walking between the trees and on the path or flying above, so as to not trample anything.

The patrols also changed, consisting more of Heracross, Ninjask, Yanmega and Scizor. Ariados, Wormadam and Galvantula sat hiding near webs or undergrowth, keeping an eye out for any trespassers from air, land or underground. They were still on guard as we drew close, but relaxed upon seeing Combee and Lou with us. They all wished us well and welcomed us onward. Zenara waved to them happily, and she got a few congratulations for evolving.

Further in, we began to see more homes. Nests built into trees, burrows among their roots, mounds leading to some underground tunnel systems, and the younger bug types to accompany them. Weedle, Caterpie and Wurmple chewing on leaves, Ledyba flying around with berries, Yanma and Masquerain chasing each other in games of tag.

The buzz from before permeated the air all around us now, to where you could feel it just as much as you heard it. Which didn't seem to be something Amethyst or Rheneas were the most fond of, but the earmuffs helped.

Rheneas hopped from Meliae's back into Zenara's wool, which seemed to help her more. Amethyst just lowered herself onto Violet's shoulder, which seemed to help her stay calm.

And then when the canopy parted, we stood before the Hive. A gargantuan structure made in tandem with a few trees lining the outside, but primarily of honeycomb. It was larger than most buildings you'd find in Sinnoh, maybe two thirds of the size of the Sunyshore Gym.

This was the area where all the cocoon Pokemon were, and there were Combee everywhere. At the top there were watchtowers built into the side, bugs stationed there to keep an eye out for birds trying to approach from above. Violet's eyes were wide in awe, gazing up at it between glances at her tablet.

There were guards at this entrance to the Hive, several Heracross, Forretress, Ninjask and Galvantula keeping an eye out. One of the Ninjask darted forward, buzzing at attention. {From the frost, we rise! Soldier, Founder General Lou, sir, Welcome back to the Hive for this year! How can we assist you and your allies today, sir?}

{From the frost, we rise! You're looking even faster than ever before, soldier. My comrades and I wish to speak with Chief Clover on matters relating to the natural potency of the land,} Lou buzzed back with authority. {I am also here to meet with the founders now that the cold has gone. It is time for me to resume my duties for the first time as a Vikavolt.}

{What does that mean?} Rheneas whispered to Donut.

{During the winter, the Corps take it easy until it's warm again so they can be out and about. Once spring returns, Lou comes back to get updates and discuss what next should be done for the Hive,} he explained quietly. {Then over the course of the year he helps fulfill tasks for them. Topaz and I often end up helping, even though Volkner thinks we shouldn't be involving ourselves in wild pokemon affairs so much.}

The Ninjask saluted, buzzing aside as the other guards parted as well. {We wish you well, Founder General sir!}

As we walked in, I noticed a few of the guards giving Rheneas and Amethyst nods of respect. Even though they meant the psychics no harm, entering an area so antithetical to their natural energies took bravery, and they respected that.

Inside the Hive itself, there were constructs of dirt and stone towards the base, with honeycomb forming the structure the higher up you went. There were holes here and there between primary layers to allow for flying bugs to traverse easily, but there were always paths for those who couldn't.

Along the paths there were plenty of areas, each with their own bugs attending them; food and water storage, material storage, an egg brood, training and education areas, the only thing there wasn't as much as you'd expect within the Hive itself was living space.

It was there, sure, but mostly out of convenience for the guards and those who worked primarily here. Calling it a palace would almost be insulting; this wasn't a place where the elite lived while the masses were relegated to the outskirts. This was a stronghold.

There was another exceedingly rare sight within the Hive as well; unpaired Combee. Usually they always traveled in threes, but within the Hive itself you could see pairs of two, or even singular Combee flying around. That only happened when they were newborns, or felt completely safe.

Not all of the individuals knew Lou immediately, but as soon as another Combee or other bug whispered to them, their eyes would light up and they'd zoom right over to Lou to say hello.

{Greetings little ones, please tell me your names,} Lou softly buzzed as they gathered around him.

Soon it became a crowd of buzzes till I realized even Lou had switched from any language I could understand to something unique. As they spoke, they all began flapping their wings as the wind around them began to sparkle. Our pokemon with the more sensitive noses sneezed at the scent.

{He's speaking to them with insect tongue. It's faster to get messages across with large groups,} Gautier explained to everyone.

{There's so many smells… what's that dust shimmering from them?} Rheneas asked.

"Pheromones. Lou is familiarizing himself with them and vice versa. It's more important than any exchange of names, it shows that they're all family," I explained, witnessing the sight. "We've been exposed to him a lot so his pheromones are on all of us too. So the corps can tell we're allies. Although, most of them know Donut, Jade, Flax and myself really well by now."

As I said this more Combee began to depart from Lou to fly around us buzzing curiously. Some larger Combee in groups of three soon joined them, informing them who we were before greeting us in turn. Donut and I received many pleasant nuzzles, while the other Combee were enamored with Jade and Flax's strong floral scent. One even offered to pollinate Flax's white rose to congratulate his evolution, but he politely declined.

{They're all so comfortable around you,} Cenza marveled as they began nuzzling Zenara as well.

{Of course!} She cheered as she hugged them each in turn happily. {Loulou took me here whenever he could!}

"This place is Lou's home, his culture. He wanted his number one student to experience it as soon as she was old enough to leave the city," I elaborated to Violet and the others.

Violet was just silent in awe, looking around at everything with wonder I'd never really seen from her. Amethyst had a similar look in her eyes, though it was tempered by how this entire place was fundamentally hostile to her psychic energies.

When a couple of familiar Combee asked Zenara who they were, she smiled even brighter. {Those two are who I decided to go with, they're awesome!}

At that, several of the older Combee flew over to the pair, nigh on interrogating them to make sure they were up to standards. Violet immediately took to answering any and all questions they had, and giving them whatever they wanted. Be that return nuzzles, looking at places they pointed out to her, or showing her the tablet she had. Amethyst looked slightly more tense than usual, but she responded casually to each of them and seemed happy to be meeting Lou's people all the same.

I glanced up to see Meliae was having a similar talk of her own with several Combee, just far enough above us that we couldn't make it out amidst the buzzing. She was chuckling though, and a few were pollinating the oranges hanging from her neck, so it seemed to be going well.

As usual, the Combee were a bit more cautious with Shizu due to her fire typing, but they had heard enough from sources that she cared for red meat, not bug meat. She was safe. The others were highly curious about Holyn and Cenza, pokemon they likely had never seen before, but both of them loved the attention.

Meanwhile, Gautier was exclusively speaking to them in insect speak and blinking lights. It seemed like they thought Lou had recruited him to the Corps and wished to know all about this strange psychic bug.

The Combee that had led us here buzzed to Lou, he buzzed back shaking his head and extending a leg forward. They buzzed back before flying a little bit in front of us all. {Follow us, we'll take you to Mommy!}

{Come along now,} Lou alerted us as we followed behind the Combee, with the younglings following behind.

The path they took us along led upwards more quickly than the others, and I noticed more guards lined along it. Seeing so many Combee around us and Lou, though, they only flapped and gave greetings as we passed by.

Soon enough, amidst the ever present buzzing of bugs everywhere, we heard music. A violin, played elegantly and gently, weaving through the hum all around and serenading us. It got louder as we approached, cresting another ramp upwards and onto the honeycomb platform at the center of the Hive.

On that platform there were several Combee, of course, but also several guards, and even more of all types of bugs reporting in. At the center was a Kricketune, playing soft music with a smile on her face. Rather than her face, the two antennae curls were further back and up, giving her the impression of twintails.

And right beside her hovered a massive Vespiquen, easily bigger than any other I'd seen. She was deep in thought at the moment until the Combee that led us flew up, and she buzzed curiously at them. When they buzzed back a smile grew on her face, clicking to those around her.

They all immediately parted, moving to either side and saluting as Clover the Vespiquen nodded to Lou. {Founder General Lou, it's been a long winter, hasn't it? I'm glad to see you back.}

{I will always return, no matter how long the winter, Chief Queen Clover. I've come with the spring in new, full form to serve my insectoid comrades,} Lou replied formally.

{And we're always happy to have you back.} She looked over at us. {Speaking of comrades, I see you've brought quite a number of your own today. Is this for business or pleasure?}

{Business. At the request of my comrade Violet we came to Route 222 to examine the natural potency of the land. We came across a Combee troop patrolling and decided to kill two avians with one incisor by returning formally for the year and to inquire about what you may know of the land,} Lou explained succinctly.

She nodded, looking across us all. {Then allow me to welcome you to the Hive, a safe haven for bugs, a stronghold for the Compound Corps, and our home. An ally of Lou's is a friend of ours.}

Violet, Amethyst, Meliae, Rheneas and Gautier all bowed their heads to her while Zenara waved excitedly. {Hi Clover!}

{What's up, Clover!} Donut greeted casually. Flax and Shizu gave her modest bows.

"Hope your lot have appreciated the upgraded flowers in the garden," Jade spoke up.

"Hey Clover! Love what you've done with the hive. It's way more complex than last year," I greeted. "Kudos!"

She chuckled, waving back at all of us before looking at Violet, who Lou had motioned a leg towards when he spoke her name. {What is it specifically you wish to know?}

Violet stood up straight. "I am searching for a nexus of natural energy near Sunyshore, to further my research into the health of the planet and what I can do to assist it. If it would not trouble you, could you point us in the correct direction?"

Clover hummed thoughtfully, looking at Lou. {She's a new ally, yes?}

{We've been working and living together since the poacher incident in autumn. Since then she has proven to be a devout advocate for all pokemon and antagonist towards humanity. Unfortunately, her love extends to avians, but we all have our flaws,} Lou admitted. {That aside, she is a worthy ally to the hive.}

Clover nodded, looking at Violet. {Then I believe I know what you are searching for. Let's fly and talk, shall we?}

Those who'd been talking with Clover before saluted before going off to do their own things, the Combee who led us here getting an affectionate head rub before flying off again. The only one of the group who followed was Cinnamon, the Kricketune who'd been playing the song from before.

She stopped as she walked beside Clover, who smiled wider at Lou. {I know we've formalities and the like, but I just want to say; congratulations on the evolution, dear friend. You wear your new carapace well, and it's good to see you stretching your new wings after you were so irritated from lack of evolution years ago.}

{Thank you, Cinnamon. It was disheartening to watch all my closest comrades evolve ahead of me, but they treated me with the same kindness they always had and my patience was rewarded with a perfect form that has yet to fail me,} Lou replied warmly. {By the way, do you happen to have any of your special berries? I've craved them ever since evolution.}

{Of course! One moment,} she replied, flying over to a bush and pulling out the greenest Tanga berries I had ever seen, dotted with red spots. {Dig in! I didn't forget you, Donut.} She said, handing him a bright yellow Sitrus berry with the same red spots.

{The queen of berries delivers again, all hail Cinnamon,} Donut thanked her as he devoured his sweet.

{I never tire of your provisions, thank you,} Lou praised her as he chewed on the berry. {Amethyst, Rheneas, eat some. They'll dim the bug effectiveness for a time.}

The duo eagerly accepted the berries and the effects were immediate, the pair growing visibly more comfortable afterwards.

Clover and Cinnamon hummed a unique hum at each other as she looked at Lou. {I'm glad you can take to the skies. I'd say I've just heard of your exploits, but I've seen some new green lightning tearing through the skies as proof enough of your evolution. I know we have business to attend to, but after that, would you like to go say hello to the old guard together?}

{I was thinking the same, this is a good opportunity to get acquainted with my Sunyshore comrades as well,} Lou added.

{She seems pretty important, too. Who is she?} Rheneas whispered to Donut.

{Lou's first confidant when he came to Sinnoh,} Clover replied, overhearing her. {It's a story of humble beginnings for me, but likely just an average day for him.}

{I broke your avian assailant's wing and you kept following me and giving me honey. Simply became my new norm,} Lou replied neutrally.

A life changing experience for most would just be a Tuesday for Lou.

Clover smiled fondly as she looked at Jade, Flax, Shizu and Gautier. {It's been quite a while, and you've all grown quite a bit. Your flowers have given as wonderful pollen and nectar as ever, though I did note the quality rise distinctly these past few days. Those new recruits to your garden have done quite well, please give them my regards.}

"Only the finest for our most efficient pollinators," Jade replied charmingly. "Oh by the way, Topaz and I can understand most of you now. Long story, short answer, psychic… stuff. The person who helped us with the translation also helped with the garden."

{Rogelio, yes?} She chuckled at the sudden look of surprise on some of our faces. {Don't worry, he's far from common knowledge. But to not know about someone with close ties to our founder general, it'd be negligent on our part.}

{Rogelio keeps a wide berth of the Hive during his excursions,} Lou added. {He finds the buzz so intolerable, he refuses to even try and get close.}

{That tracks,} Amethyst said more to herself than anyone. She got pulled off Violet's shoulder and held in her arms all the same, which got a small smile from her.

{Queen Chief Clover, my name is Gautier. While my contributions pale in comparison to those of the fairies, Jade and Flax, I am gladdened to hear your people have come to love the garden even moreso now. I am honored to walk amid your Hive as someone who has admired the Compound Corps' work since… I met Lou.}

Shizu glanced at him oddly. {Where'd all that formality come from?}

Clover now looked directly at Gautier with a warm smile, giving a quick glance to Jade. {I'm glad you've taken in one of our kin.} She then looked back to Gautier. {Welcome to the Hive, soldier Gautier. I'm glad to hear you look up to us all as much as you do, as well as being able to walk in a place built by and for your own. Is this your first time in a natural hive?}

{Most certainly!} Gautier replied, his shell blinking enthusiastically. {I was born across the ocean in a psychic type only establishment. There was low tolerance for bugs, my skills would hinder the others' training. Add with the poor leadership, subpar regiment and lack of style is why I elected to come to the Sinnoh region to find worthwhile trainers. Here I met Shizu, Flax and Jade who impressed upon me how much more I could become in the right environment. So, here I am.}

{I forgot you grew up in a gym too! Was it really that bad?} Zenara questioned.

{The top 8 strongest gyms make it to the League circuit each year and acquire the most funding, while the others wallow for a year. My gym hasn't been skilled enough to be in the circuit since before I was born. I also looked into the bug gym and they were abysmal as well,} Gautier enunciated with vast annoyance. {Joining the exchange program was my last chance. Sunyshore Gym has been my saving grace and the Sinnoh elites are bug and psychic trainers. This is the best place for me.}

While the two had been talking, I noticed Clover give an ever so slightly distinctive buzz. Within seconds a Yanma had darted in alongside her, saluting. The two clicked to each other for a brief moment before the Yanma saluted again and was gone as quick as they'd arrived.

She turned back to Gautier. {I'm sorry to hear you had such poor experiences before this. Rest assured, the Hive and Compound Corps aren't nearly so callous or inept. We strive to be the best we can be, protect the sanctuary and sanctity of our kin, and ensure any bug who needs it gets the assistance they so rightly deserve. I know Lou has trained you himself, but if you'd ever like to train in the Hive or simply amongst more of your kin, all you need to do is ask.}

{I am honored, thank you Chief Queen,} Gautier buzzed, blinking a respectful black and yellow to match Clover's color palette.

{I'm happy for you, G,} Holyn cheered, patting him on the shell. Lou looked down at Gautier, nodding his head in approval as we continued on.

Clover then looked at Zenara. {And you've finally come into your own alongside a worthy partner, I'm glad to see you finally found your direction.}

Zenara fist pumped, beaming up at her. {Yup! I met 'em and they've been great! Takin' down bad guys, makin' cool stuff, learnin' lots of things, I'm happy to be with 'em!}

Clover smiled wider at her before turning her attention to Violet, Amethyst, Meliae and Rheneas. {Then let me introduce myself properly. I am Chief Queen Clover, head of the Hive and Compound Corps council, mother to the Combee you've seen and the others within the Corps, and primary delegate.} She gestured to Cinnamon. {This is Cinnamon the Kricketune, my consort, the Hive's musician, a chief member of architecture and education.}

{My love here helped me out in a bind years ago. I gave her some berries, she gave me some honey. The rest is history.} Cinnamon bowed her head. {It's always an honor to meet an ally and friend of Lou's.}

I think Lou told me that story ages ago.

Violet, Amethyst, Meliae and Rheneas all bowed their heads to the two. "It is an honor beyond words to be allowed within your Hive and to meet you all. You have my endless gratitude."

Amethyst waved, grin a bit forced as she kept her ears curled tight. {Nice to meet Lou's buds, I'ma defer to Violet for the most part. I've got a headache.}

"Do you need… more help?" Jade asked with hidden concern. "Gautier, do you know any techniques for this?"

She waved him off, nodding at Violet. "She asserts that she will be alright, simply that her usual methods of movement and communication- psychokinetic flight and telepathy- are impaired here and she needs to narrow her psychic focus. Typically she keeps a wide radius under watch to keep us safe, but that is difficult and unpleasant for her here."

Clover nodded at Amethyst, respect in her eyes. {Even though you may not feel fit to reply, know that the strength of mind you have to be as calm as you are here is not lost on me. I'm glad you could come all the same.}

Amethyst gave her a thumbs (paw?) up, getting comfier in Violet's arms and seeming a bit more at ease now. Clover looked up at Meliae. {I heard reports of you at the Marsh. I'm glad to see you as well, with the aid you gave General Tanya and her battalion.}

Meliae inclined her head. {As I, and the others of the Marsh, are grateful to you and your Corps for aiding us in our time of need. Simply say the word, and we will do all we can to assist you in kind.}

Clover then turned to Rheneas. {And you are from the Marsh as well, young Spoink? I'm surprised you're as well as you are, but I'm glad to see you all the same.}

Rheneas waved at her from within Zenara's wool. {The earmuffs help, and I don't do as much as Amethyst does. It's nice to meet you, Chief Queen Clover, but I'd like to stay with Zenara if it's all the same to you.}

That got a short chuckle from her as she nodded. {Of course,} she replied before turning to me. {Topaz, I'm assuming this must be Cenza of Kalos and Holyn of… Oreburgh, if I'm not mistaken?} Clover questioned. {You surround yourself with friends that radiate kindness. You've grown up a bit, but that part hasn't changed.}

"I haven't grown as much as you. You're the biggest Vespiquen I've ever seen!" I noted, earning a shocked, but pleased buzz from her. "And yeah these two are the real heart of the group."

{I'm more of a forward thinker if you catch my drift,} Holyn joked.

{I can't use electricity so I've got heart to spare to make up for it!} Cenza added.

Clover chuckled as she turned to Donut. {Your new friends are energetic. I hope they don't stress you out too much.}

{After years of Lou, I'm immune,} he slyly replied, earning an amused scoff from Lou.

With introductions and quick explanations done, we arrived at a dome in the center of the Hive. The honeycomb here was lighter than the rest by several shades, closer to white than the golden yellow or golden brown of the rest of the Hive. There were almost as many guards here as there had been around Clover, though they seemed just as strong.

They likely were only less in number because this was dead center, meaning nearly the rest of the Hive itself was guarding this one spot. The moment they saw Clover, they stood at attention, saluting and bowing before forming even lines to allow us a path directly into the dome.

{When you spoke of a sort of natural nexus,} Clover began, {I doubted there could be many things besides this. We found a point of energy when searching for a location for the Hive, and centered it around that point. Over time, that point has shifted and crystalized into what you see before you,} she spoke with a gesture to what was inside the dome.

It was a huge crystal formation, colored gold and yellow with hints of pale green swarming within. It looked almost like an evolutionary stone, but not like any I'd ever seen, nor anywhere near as huge. It was around the same size as Clover was, and the more we looked at it, the more it seemed… at home. Each facet had six sides to it, the green streaks hovering in the center of facets as a swarm before darting to another.

The main body of the crystal was a golden brown, the edges shining brilliant gold, while the center of it looked almost molten. Not unlike a lava lamp, but entirely natural, small globules stretching off before curving back in and joining back with the primary mass. It almost looked like honey suspended within the crystal.

Lou and Gautier's bodies involuntarily pulsed with power once they got close to it, each glowing with the soft green representative of the insect element. Meanwhile, Amethyst and Rheneas flinched at its presence, most certainly affecting their psychic powers harshly, so Cenza hopped over to them to soothe them with fairy essence as best she could.

{Over time this crystal grew from the earth,} Clover continued, reverence in her voice. {We didn't know why, and we still don't fully. But to the best of our understanding, the natural wellspring of energy we felt responded to the Hive, crystalizing into energy that resonates with our kind. Some, as I am sure Lou and Gautier have felt, feel invigorated and strengthened near it. It repels those for whom our energies conflict, as Rheneas and Amethyst are unfortunately experiencing. And as the Hive has grown, so too has this crystal. The more the Compound Corps extends its reach, so too does its influence spread.}

She looked at Violet. {I believe this is what you were searching for.}

Violet, still holding Amethyst close, took out her tablet. Her eyes widened slightly at what she saw, before looking back at Clover. "May I take some readings?"

Clover gestured for her to continue, which she did. Being careful to not get much closer than she was already, but inspecting it from various angles; the earth around it, the dome we were within, she was taking great care with her work. While she did, some guards keeping an eye on her just in case, Clover turned to Lou. {I know you reside amidst humans, have they discovered anything of the crystal's ilk that we may not have?}

{There's something akin to this for electric types around the Sunyshore region that I've visited during my flights. It's a magnetic slab that attracts lightning during every storm,} Lou replied.

{In my fights I've seen a peculiar purple bog in the Marsh that reeked of poison with a large rock filled with toxins,} Meliae brought up.

{The older pokemon back at the dome in Oreburgh said sometimes when they went deep into the mines to explore they could feel the planet's blessing at a really specific spot. They said a huge sacred diamond was found, that no one can smash or move,} Holyn added.

"Large electric, poison and rock elemental stones found in areas with high concentrations of pokemon with the same type. I definitely know this…" I pondered to myself before raising a finger in realization. "Elemental spires!"

Clover turned to me. {You know of these phenomena?}

"Yup, read about it. It's a pretty big deal, so it was smart to build your new hive right on top of a budding one," I explained. "When high concentrations of a specific elemental energy congregate in one place for a significant amount of time, the elements begin to seep into the ground and the planet reacts in kind. Over time, it produces a stone that radiates the favored pokemon's elemental energy, altering the environment around them to suit the pokemon's needs. They're considered the most hospitable places to raise specific types. So this budding insect spire will benefit you for… the known future. I've never heard of one running out of power. Any bug types born and raised here will prosper significantly more than anywhere else naturally. You just need to let it grow, don't sap any power from it yet."

{Fascinating…} She turned to the stone, contemplating it.

After a few moments, Cinnamon raised her forelimbs and began to play a simple, melodic tune. And not more than a few notes in, the budding spire began to resonate with her song. The green streaks within the stone harmonized, creating a soft hum emanating from within the crystal in tune with Cinnamon's music.

{It does resonate with us,} she noted brightly.

{It seems you were also productive during our time apart, Clover. This discovery is monumentous for the Compound Corps, the Hive, for generations to come,} Lou exclaimed. {General Topaz, are there any natural threats to these spires? How can we conserve it?}

"I can think of one unnatural threat," Jade stated casually.

"Humans," Violet hissed, though she didn't look up from her tablet.

"The shards from spires are incredibly difficult to come by and sell for a fortune for jewelry or components for power. If the wrong humans get their hands on a few, they'll likely amass an army to gun for the rest," I elaborated for them all. "Now it's incredibly difficult to break through to spires cuz they always have loads of pokemon guarding them, but… ya know. Other pokemon could do it and machines."

{Ensure the gravity of that information is passed along and extreme measures are taken against human intruders,} Clover ordered a nearby Ninjask.

{Before objections, the patrols are thorough. Stray trainers are guided away. It's only when they push back, we push harder,} Lou appeased me quickly.

"A sensible course of action," Violet noted which earned her an approving look from Clover and the guards both.

{You mean if someone actually got closer to the Hive, right?} Zenara asked. {Since eating anyone who got close would just mean more people trying to stop you from eating more people.}

Clover nodded. {Of course. I should elaborate; if patrols find errant humans straying close to the hive, they are shooed away. If they attempt to capture one of our own, we ensure they understand that to attack one of us is to attack all of us. If that does not deter them, then they are welcome to enter the hive as a neat parcel for the brood.}

{Our issue is with the bird menace we share this wilderness with, not humanity. There's almost no nutritional value to humans, the Sunyshore people are kind and even the new trainers learn our boundaries fast. We're not going to kill everyone we see because they're inconvenient. The world needs more Topaz, Jades and the like,} Cinnamon added on. {Unless they make themselves clearly a threat to us, we have no trouble with them.}

{So besides humans, what else to watch out for, Topaz?} Clover continued.

"Rival factions. You hold the most elite territory a bug type could have. Other types don't really benefit as much, so other bugs might amass large groups to raid your Hive."

{I'd love to meet the fools that think they can take this place,} Gautier huffed.

{Elite Aaron's team could. Lou too if he tried. Or a legendary. Can't rule anything out,} Flax added passively, poking a mushroom.

{Flax is right. Complacency is a killer, even if we win a battle, we could be bombarded till we've taken too many losses to hold on,} Lou replied before buzzing disamused. {As uncomfortable as it is to be used as a negative example towards my friends and family, other bugs my power level would be challenging.}

"Especially if helped by a trainer. From their perspective, they could be helping their buddies out. To you, it's hell," Jade added, now curious about what Flax was poking.

Clover was deep in thought, while Cinnamon gazed at Lou. {I know you and my love have not sparred properly in some time, but I assure you, she has not rested on her laurels. When she says the Hive and Compound Corps train, she means us all. Perhaps she may not defeat you, but I know she would give you a fight to be proud of.}

Clover nodded to herself, giving an appreciative look towards Cinnamon before looking back to Lou more seriously. {We continue our training as always then, but with renewed purpose and vigor.}

Lou buzzed gravely. {Indeed. I can now bring forth the full extent of my power and knowledge.}

There was no immediate threat, but now that the importance of the spire was made aware, the gravity of the situation was heavy. Clover began clicking to the guards, who clicked to messengers who began flying around the Hive, already passing on the importance of the spire.

Bug types and their communication was amongst the best. Their message would be the same even after being passed a hundred times.

Watching the sudden rush of life and urgency throughout the hive, Gautier stepped forward before Clover, blinking an ardent purple.

{Queen Chief Clover, Queen Consort Cinnamon, if you'd have me, I'd like to join the Compound Corps as one of your soldiers!} He declared.

Several of us shifted in surprise. Lou turned to face him head on, his expression unreadable. Not exactly where we expected this to go, but Jade voiced his own thoughts.

"Are you… leaving us?" He asked with great hesitation.

{No, at least I hope not,} he whirled around in alarm at Jade before turning back to Clover. {I want to be in the same position as Lou. Work with trainers and the Corps. I believe I can be an invaluable asset.}

Clover and Cinnamon eyed each other before Clover raised a hand. {Go on.}

{Like Lou, my species isn't native to Sinnoh. We're unique wild cards fulfilling niches many of your bugs can't. Dottler and Orbeetle, my evolution, are some of the few bugs of psychokinesis. I'm an excellent scout due to my radar capabilities, I even have aptitude in mind manipulation and technical moves I've learned through training. As far as I know, no other pokemon I've seen in the Corps can do everything I can!}

His lights shone brightly. {This place is precious and I want to protect it, even if it costs me my life! This place is power and beauty in its most ideal form!}

Clover nodded thoughtfully, deliberating internally. {Usually, I would have reservations about a bug raised by and still accompanying a trainer joining the Corps officially. But you reside with Jade, a dear friend of Topaz, who is in turn the general of our founder general, Lou. So you would not be far from one of our most core members, and the one who started us all on the path to where we are today.} She clicked, gazing at Lou. {You know him best, any objections?}

{I've grown fond of him the months we've known each other. I would love to ingratiate him with the Sinnoh culture I've come to take as my own. I'm simply glad he asked before I could request he join,} Lou whirred affirmingly, earning a bright blink of joy from Gautier. {Jade, I'll need to assimilate Gautier into the Corps. If you need him ask, but until he is fully engrossed he must remain here.}

"First my mum and now Gautier, shit maybe I should go out too," Jade sighed, rubbing his neck. "You know, I'm surprised you didn't ask sooner, but better late than never. If that's what you want to do, then do what you've gotta do Gautier."

{Can't say I'm surprised. Gautier joined us to satiate his ambitions. Which is compatible with our team dynamic, so this has worked out nicely for him. Enjoy your tenure in the army,} Flax promised. {I'll grow something ladybug inspired in support.}

{Like Flax said, you're a climber… and I respect that. Go train up and learn some real damaging moves so I don't have to carry you as hard next fight,} Shizu chuckled.

Gautier beamed at the collective approval of his team as he turned back to Clover.

{Then as Chief Queen Clover of the Hive and joint General of the Compound Corps, I appoint you to tutelage from Founder General Lou until you attain the rank of Private. Am I understood, soldier?}

{Yes, your majesty!} Gautier saluted.

"That's royalty, this is the army," I whispered.

{Is she not both…?} Gautier asked baffled.

Lou sighed exceedingly deep. {I now know where to start.}

I heard Amethyst chuckling to herself over from where Violet was.

{Now that's resolved, Clover, could you pollinate my white rose please? I wanted an expert for it,} Flax asked her pointedly, which she happily obliged.

{And can we get some more berries! Honey too! Also, where's the other founders, it's been a minute,} Donut requested.

{Oooh, is Tanya around? I wanna say hi!} Cenza squeaked.

{And can we please move away from the giant bug rock?} Amethyst pleaded.

"We're gonna be here awhile, aren't we?" Jade sighed.

"A fun while at least," I smiled.

---

~x4x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Sunyshore Gym

Time: Mid April - Afternoon

With Gautier's Corps training underway, it was time to pay attention to our newer fighters and their work.

At Violet's advice, Meliae and Cenza had become training partners. I wasn't exactly sure where she was going with it, and neither were they, but they were all down to train. Cenza was overjoyed to be considered a proper training partner, and Meliae was glad to be learning from someone who'd been with trainers longer than she had.

Why she wanted them to spar became clear quickly. Meliae knew how to use her size to her advantage, and was good at knowing where to step to not trample things she didn't want to, but actually dealing with small opponents that could injure her was more difficult.

So Violet had asked (never told) her to focus on making localized wind currents and overgrowth around herself. She'd have no trouble moving like it wasn't even there, but turning the terrain into another advantage could severely mitigate the agility advantage smaller opponents had.

Cenza, meanwhile, was the smallest fighter we had with us. Which meant that if Meliae wanted her obstruction tactics to do anything to her, she had to be precise. Simultaneously, Cenza was learning in an environment conducive to her own growth; all the natural energy around meant Nature Power came slightly more easily and packed more of a punch. Learning how to navigate against a colossus like Meliae was a lesson in and of itself, as well as navigating through the harsh environment Meliae had been creating.

After such a short time together, Violet had worked out a way to create a safe but effective method for Meliae to increase her skill with a high bar against a friend. In the same vein, she'd figured out a training method that would give Cenza some more self-confidence and serve to better show her how far she'd come, taking on someone like Meliae as an equal. Still contributing to her own preferred fighting style's training all the while.

And while that was happening, Zenara was doing a very different kind of training from usual; helping Violet with her work. She was working on some sort of engine, but every time I asked she said it was only a prototype and not worth explaining until the concept was proven.

Whatever it was, sometimes Zenara would straight up blast it with all she had while Violet took a reading. Most of the time she sat next to Violet, sticking her tongue out in concentration as she learned how to precisely control her electricity for the delicate inner machinery.

Given how excitable she was, you might think this was hell. But she'd expanded her mental range a lot after evolution. She wasn't interested at first, but once the challenge became clear, she took to it with the same enthusiasm and drive she took to every challenge. Seeing her growth already just from a Mareep was something that brought a smile to my face.

{Donut was right, you do have a face when you're just thinking a lot,} Amethyst's voice drew me from my thoughts.

I looked up at her floating by my head. "My internal monologues are very in-depth."

{I know,} she chuckled. {I had a psychic group chat with you in it long enough to get familiar with your brain's background hum.} She looked back. {Thinking on the training Violet's asking for?}

"I've gotten used to Violet going out of her way to train Zenara and mentor starter pokemon, but this is more proactive than I expected. I figured she'd be concerned by the size difference, but she's really going all in with the guidance for these two," I noted, watching Cenza dance around Meliae's attacks.

{It's what they both want,} she smiled. {And getting better at using what you've got has always been where she shines. Training in increasing strength concerns her, since it means something has to get hurt. But just getting better at using the strength you have? That usually doesn't involve nearly as much pain, if any at all,} she noted with a nod to Zenara.

"Looks like it's working out for everyone," I smiled softly as I stroked the back of the sleeping Donut on my lap.

{That's what she tries to do,} she replied with a fond smile. {Doesn't matter where or when, she's trying to figure out the way to make things better for everybody.}

I nodded at Amethyst's words as I watched Violet run around the outskirts of the training ground providing advice for both pokemon.

To most people it seemed like she hadn't changed and while yes she would never be a true trainer, she had gotten more comfortable with directing. For now, I was just content to watch them work with my starter relaxing.

---

~x5x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Sunyshore Underground

Time: Late April - Evening

While Violet was occupied with training and Jade was busy making potions, I had my own operations underway.

"Do you smell anything around here, Rheneas?" I asked her as we traversed a new cavern we had found in the Grand Underground.

As I suggested a while back, I figured it'd be good to start trying a bit harder in the underground searching for any possible mega stones for either Zenara or Shizu. For this task, I needed help though, but I also wanted to test out some new dynamics. I had to take Holyn as his seismic sense, which allowed me to find the most interesting gems due to being rock type. Cenza came along as security, sometimes we ran into wild pokemon that liked to start fights and she was eager to end them.

Then Rheneas who I was most unsure about asking. I'm not really one for plants and neither Flax or Dijon have any interest with the underground, but Spoink are famous for their noses and surprisingly good digging ability. Wasn't sure what grew in an underground electric rock biome, but she could help me find out.

Donut and Lou were with me as well, albeit in their pokeballs in case of emergency. I wanted to see what us four could do and it would be great training for them all. Rheneas especially wasn't interested in fighting, but there were other ways to gain experience so I was elated she agreed to come.

She snuffled around for a second before bouncing over to a patch of wall and pointing at it, glancing at Holyn. {Can you break through this? Not too hard though!}

{Delicate touch, got it!} He confirmed, eyeing the wall carefully.

Hours of smashing rocks had given him expertise on how to get what we needed. Rather than smash it in with his head, he simply gave it a healthy kick, removing the stone blocking Rheneas' find.

Inside was a small cavern, no bigger than I was, with a few stalactites and stalagmites growing to fill it up. Right underneath where water slowly dripped though, there was a Nomel berry vine wrapped around a stalagmite. Rheneas pointed at it to Holyn to pick before she bounced over to a spot where the rest of us were too big to get to.

After digging a slight divot in the ground, there was a shoot that she grabbed onto before coiling her spring so she was flush with the ground. Holding the shoot tight, she heaved backwards, it holding for a moment before there was a loud sproing as she launched back towards us.

In her grasp was a plant that had an almost stony short shoot, but much longer roots that all jagged out like lightning bolts. They split into more, smaller roots as they went.

{I have no idea what this is, but you asked for weird plants, so here you go!} she said, pleased with herself and plopping the strange root into my hands.

"Nicely done and I… also have never seen this before," I replied, admiring the strange plant. "Looks electric friendly though."

Cenza scampered on my arm to my hand to sniff. {It smells like lightning.}

"Another new plant for Garland," I said, pocketing it with the rest of the strange plants Rheneas had found today. I didn't recognize most of it, and honestly I had seen some before, but had never realized the significance of any of it until she started pulling them out and calling them weird.

"I think we found more weird plants than rocks thanks to you, Rheneas," I mused.

{No mega stones though,} Holyn frowned. {I'm sure I didn't miss any. I feel like I'd notice something like that.}

{I've been searching too and couldn't feel any notable energy either that matched anything close to Zenara or Shizu,} Cenza added comfort.

"I believe you, Holyn. So either they're somewhere else or even deeper," I assured him, staring down into a cavern that went further below. I checked the Pokedex to see exactly where we were and according to it, this was a new record. And I could feel it. "We've been down here since morning. No mega stones, but I'd say we gained enough from the trip. Overall, a success. Great job team."

All three cheered in their own way at the praise, warming my heart. "We can give all these to Garland tomorrow, for now I need a shower. Let's head on up."

{Seconded! I could use a nice mud bath,} Rheneas added happily.

I thought pigs preferred to be clean!? She does come from a swamp, I guess?

After a quick recall of everyone, I summoned Lou, got my baton into flight mode for him to hold, harnessed myself to it and got ready for lift off. He turned an hours-long trek into a blink of the eye. Before I knew it, we were in the outside world flying above the beautiful, blinking city I call home as the sun had almost completely set.

Flying with Lou was the most refreshing feeling. He knew exactly how to make the trip fun, yet I never felt in danger. For our own mutual amusement, we took a bit of a detour flying above the city, in-between skyscrapers, startling unsuspecting Wingull before heading out to sea. We flew so close to the water, I could almost touch it as Remoraid and Mantyke hopped out to greet us before we arrived at our familiar backyard.

I sent out Rheneas so she could hop over to the barn to tell Meliae of her outing. Violet was sitting on the roof of the barn with Amethyst, working away on her tablet as always. Zenara seemed to have made a game about jumping on top of the barn and back down over and over, which she invited Rheneas to join.

{She's been spending more time in the barn than in the house as of late,} Lou noted.

"That's good. We did build it for it to be used. Plus, Meliae appreciates the company," I replied.

{But notice how much more relaxed and comfortable she looks on that roof compared to the house or the gym,} Lou urged me, forcing me to squint through the darkness.

While she was working on her tablet as usual and her face held mostly the same expression, I had gotten better at telling the minute differences. Usually, her expression read as one trying to shut out the white noise of human convention. I wouldn't say she was opposed to buildings or claustrophobic, it's just their relation to humans had her on guard.

Atop the barn, her guard had lessened. She was more in her element there than I had usually seen her. Honestly, it was prolly more akin to how I look when I'm in the gym.

{That's where they belong, General. You see that, yes?} Lou asked, glancing my way.

I looked back at them before I turned to him, catching his meaning. "I think I've always seen it," I replied quietly as we headed inside.

---

~x6x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Beacon Backyard

Time: April 30th - Noon

The month was nearing its end and it had been a crazy busy month. So to cap it off we called a friend for a reunion.

"So you renovated this entire backyard as soon as you got back from fighting for your lives in the swamp?" Eva asked us in astonishment.

"No, it was only after Meliae and Rheneas joined us and there was literally nothing for them to do here," I corrected. "So we began renovating the very next morning. We got a good deal considering how much work was done, but it was… expensive. Adulting is expensive."

"I'm not sure the heiress of grace can relate," Jade chuckled, as Eva scowled at him, munching her burger ruefully unable to deny that notion.

It had been awhile since we had last gotten in touch with Eva and it just so happened her mom had business with Garland in Sunyshore, so they finally came to visit.

Jade was at my place as usual so we all went out, bought burgers and came back to eat them at the outdoor table. Our pokemon were all chilling throughout the backyard, doing their own thing, reconnecting, having fun.

Apparently, the day after we all met up in the marsh, Marjorie evolved into Tsareena. According to her, she felt strange the days leading up to it until she just evolved after stomping on a trampoline.

Her appearance was slightly different from any Tsareena I had seen in Alola. Instead of the three hair leaves simply trailing down, at the ends they curled up like the leaves atop a ripe berry into more hairlike curls. The singular leaf in front for the hair crescent was more of a swirl as well, along with the berry crown having another, smaller berry atop it.

Her eyes had three triangles much more akin to those of a Steenee than the long eyelashes, and her petticoat didn't cover her mouth. The dress was much larger as well, her form having more of a torso than other Tsareena I'd seen, and the skirt section flowing down like a blooming flower instead of being all bunched up. Her legs were shorter and didn't have the bootlike adornments either, instead having leaflike wrappings on her lower legs.

She was still mono-grass, but radiated elegant queen rather than dominatrix berry. Ultimately, her new look suited her more than the traditional.

I wasn't sure where Violet and Amethyst had wandered off to though.

Until I noticed them walking out from the barn and towards the house, probably for the workshop. Violet simply raised a hand in acknowledgement before she continued, Amethyst flying over. {Hey! Just hanging out? Taking a moment to enjoy each other's company in a chill situation for once?}

"Absolutely. I've been wanting to visit, but Mom has been busy with her work in the Great Marsh and I've been trying to help her when I can. Add in school, training my team and my clubs, I've been occupied," Eva admitted, before pointing at Jade. "Besides, Jade would say I'm clingy if I came over too often."

"Not everyone can live at Topaz's house, I was here first," Jade defended.

"You don't actually live here…" I muttered amusingly to myself mostly.

Amethyst chuckled at the mention of school. {I think Jade thought we were gonna steal Topaz away from him or something.} She lightly bonked his forehead. {Violet isn't gonna become a transfer student or anything, she's too smart for that.}

"I was just making sure you two didn't whisk him off into the jungle or something. You already took him to a submarine so-" Jade began when Holyn appeared at the end of the table suddenly.

{Jade, why did you used to call Violet Jungle Jane?} He asked innocently.

Eva covered her mouth to hold back her laugh, while I whistled in amusement as I awaited Jade's answer.

"Because she hated humans and came from the wilderness or something. I don't really know, Topaz went through an entire saga in a couple days with her and then a week later she's living in Sunyshore," Jade admitted haphazardly.

{So is Fura in the wilderness?} Holyn continued. Both Jade and Eva looked at him in confusion at the name.

Fura? That sounds familiar.

I could feel Amethyst flinch internally, and I caught Violet suddenly stop walking into the house as well. The tension had heavied.

"What's Fura?" Eva asked, half asking Holyn half eyeing the other two.

{Well, I know Amethyst is from the Kalos wilds, but Jade keeps saying Violet is from the jungle or woods, but Kakuen mentioned a place called Fura City. Then when I asked about it, Violet said that's where she met Amethyst and that she'd explain more about it later. Something about a cursed beast, too…} Holyn scrounged his face remembering. {I just remembered when I saw Eva again. Also since Jade said the jungle thing, but it's incorrect since Violet was born in a city.}

I saw Amethyst rubbing her temples, ears curled tighter than usual and eyes shut. {Fucking…} after a long moment she let out a deep sigh. {Fuck.}

She looked at Holyn with a mix of affection and pain. {I love how innocent and nice you are, but Topaz already forgot once and I was really hoping you'd forget too.}

"I think Benedetto did bring up something like this, but my brain was fried after all that stress so I forgot," I admitted.

{My brain is protected by an impenetrable dome, so I remember stuff! Eventually,} Holyn declared.

Amethyst just groaned, and I saw Violet asking Zenara, Rheneas and Meliae to follow her to the barn while Amethyst narrowed her eyes at us. She hummed in thought when she looked at me and Eva, then turning her gaze to Jade. {You're not going to just let this go, are you?}

"Well, I mean…" Jade wasn't sure what to say. I think he had genuinely stopped caring to find out. He was getting more mellow recently.

Fairies work wonders on a person's personality.

{If I say no, will you tell us?} Shizu asked, sauntering up from behind him. {Contrary to popular belief, my hearing is still exceptional.}

She's not one for mellow though.

{I have never connected more with Flax than I have in this one moment,} she muttered to herself before shaking her head in irritation. {Fine. You all get your partners and come to the barn. Rogelio included, we're not doing this more than once.}

"Should my team be a part of this? I feel like I'm intruding on something? And Rogelowho?" Eva inquired politely.

Amethyst gazed at her directly. It was reminiscent of how she'd looked at me soon after we'd met. {I can already tell you're good with secrets, you fought with us to save Pokemon, and there's a weird… thing with your family anyway. Besides, you might be relevant to this. Violet's accepting this and if she does and I don't feel it's fucked, then yeah, you should.}

"Alright then…" Eva said, standing up to round everyone up.

I wonder what's weird about her family besides being filthy rich.

{I'll round up the other two for you, Jade,} Shizu said as she ran off to get Flax and Gautier, while Jade followed silently behind.

Holyn and I simply exchanged looks. {Did I start something?} He asked.

"Yeah… something good and bad I feel. Let's get the others," I urged as we collected everyone.

---

It didn't take long for everyone to be gathered into the barn. It was nice to see how even with the abundance of pokemon there was still ample space. We all sat on the ground in a large circle, reminiscent of how we went camping, but with a lot more tension.

The people that hadn't known Violet and Amethyst as long could tell something was up, but not the gravity of it. They had likely assumed their backstories were just something no one had mentioned yet. Meanwhile those of us that had known them since autumn were well aware how guarded this secret was. This was huge for them.

Rogelio, who had been only making scant appearances the past few weeks, appeared shortly after we all sat down, sitting on one of the beams. He waved at everyone pleasantly, earning confused looks from those who hadn't met him, but no protest. He had introduced himself to Meliae and Rheneas once when I wasn't around, so this was their second meeting.

Once we were all in the shed, Amethyst sat on Violet's lap, closed her eyes and unfurled her ears. A similar dome to what Violet had dragged me into to hide us from the Mankey horde ages ago expanded rapidly, passing through us harmlessly. The outside world looked more shadowed, as if it had just been cast into night outside the bubble. Multiple tendrils of psychic energy wove themselves into the dome, giving it an almost mirror-like sheen before they formed into facets that made it appear almost like we were sitting inside a bug's compound eye.

This is the thickest she's ever made a veil. It's a psychic black box.

"Amethyst has created a bubble that allows our psychic signatures to be perceived from outside, but to anyone not attempting to specifically eavesdrop without being stronger than she is by a number of magnitudes, they will not know our thoughts, words or any other identifying aspects," Violet explained. Her expression rarely changed, but it had changed now. She was often serious, but her face was grave.

"You are not to tell anyone the information we will impart. If you do not believe you can keep that secret under threat of death, leave now. I ask in the name of countless pokemon to take this with the utmost severity if not on our behalf, then on the innocent lives that would be affected."

She is not kidding.

I scanned the room to see Clarabel whispering to Marjorie if they should leave, who appeased her if they can keep their family's secrets, they can keep this one. Eva and Sylvia, sitting her own lap, tensed, but remained.

Jade's group was somewhat uncomfortable now, but they were too curious to leave. Shizu was fine though.

Holyn and Cenza looked concerned for their friends, but Lou appeased them both, reminding them it's just a precaution. It's a vulnerable moment for them. Donut, on my shoulder, exchanged a look with me that read 'This is gonna be some deep shit, huh'. I couldn't agree more and that's why we had to listen.

Rheneas was definitely concerned, but Meliae had craned her neck so that she could listen in as well, and she seemed more concerned for Violet and Amethyst than anything. So Rheneas was content to stay and listen. I did notice though that Zenara didn't seem concerned, or excited, or anything like the rest of us. She sat next to Violet, tapping the ground anxiously with her tail lighting and dimming haphazardly.

Is she the only other one who knows what they're about to say?

When none of us moved, Violet exhaled through her nose, looking at me. "Topaz. You may wonder why there has been no mention of a 'Fura' before. That is because I razed all information about it from the internet, and those with whom word of mouth may travel do not speak a word of it."

"They don't speak of it? Is it actually cursed?" I asked, thinking back on what Holyn said about a cursed beast.

Violet's look darkened further, as though I'd unknowingly insulted Pokemon themselves. "No. They do not speak of it because the area is under lockdown by…" It was the first time I had seen her hesitate in a long time, even though it only lasted a moment. "The area is under lockdown from Octavia the Zeraora, and all who know her respect her will or fear it as they should."

"Zeraora? I've never heard of that pokemon. Do you know them, Topaz?" Eva asked me.

I tried to remember everything I knew, the name sounded familiar. It took me longer than usual to remember. "Zeraora… An electric mythical that very few people know anything about. Possibly Alolan," I scoured my thoughts. "Volkner or one of my Alolan cousins might've said something about them. There's barely any known lore on them."

"Zeraora are the ferocity of lightning incarnate. They are as swift as they are powerful, capable of feats that would outstrip Roland with minimal effort. That is without absorbing any electricity, which they can use to empower themselves and embody the raw power of nature."

{A true embodiment of lightning then,} Lou inquired.

Violet nodded at him, holding the scarf she always wore; a bright yellow, long, fluffy scarf whose ends jagged into faux lightning bolts. "She is also myself and Amethyst's mother."

{You're half pokemon!? Is that why you're so good with electricity?} Cenza questioned. In the background, I noticed Eva's group tense at the query.

Violet gave a short, bitter laugh. "If only I had any aspect of my heritage to be proud of. No, I am of exclusively human descent, to the vitriol of all involved." She looked at Cenza. "I am proficient with electricity more than others may be because of my mother's blessing, as is Amethyst."

{Blessed by a legendary, so that's what that aura I felt when I gave you my own,} Rogelio spoke up. {I've never met another legendary, even after all my attempts to speak with Lady Azelf. It's different from my signature, yet still holy.}

Violet nodded at him. "Though not all see it as you do."

Zenara held one of Violet's hands comfortingly. Just to remind her she was there.

She took a moment to gather her thoughts before looking at us all. "This tale begins before I was born, by many years. Fura is one of many island establishments off the coast of Sinnoh's mainland, at one time with the blessing of Lugia. Over time, the inhabitants failed to recognize the importance of that blessing. That seas and storms never bothered the island, that the wind was ever at their sails and the waves did not claim their lives. The humans who inhabited the city believed it was they who held the power. Which is why they were especially resentful when reality shattered their egotistical notions as Lugia revoked their blessing."

"As is the tendency of humans, they did not reflect on themselves. Questioning that perhaps it was they who did not deserve such gifts, not the 'cruel whims of the beasts'." She looked at Cenza with a pained expression. "You are already far too aware of what humans will do when another has power they covet, to mask the shame of their inability to shape the world alone."

{And here comes the fun part. The legend left so it became a shit show for all the pokemon stuck there, amiright?} Shizu urged.

"Precisely," she spoke darkly. "The humans had power they deemed theirs taken as swiftly as it was given. So they set about forcing the Pokemon that had lived beside them thus far to fill that void."

"Fortunately for those Pokemon, Octavia was not one to simply watch. As soon as she knew of the situation she rescued all the Pokemon within the city's boundaries she could, taking them to the forest bordering the constructs. Leaving the humans bereft of power they did not possess themselves, in a dead forest built by hands not their own."

{So it's just divided? Humans and pokemon living separately?} Donut asked surprised.

"Perhaps it would be that simple, if humans were not what humans are. Vile, repugnant, greedy monstrosities that plague existence itself." Violet narrowed her eyes. "At this time, the city was still known. They interacted with the world frequently via ships and trade, as they had funds from prior. The Pokemon who arrived with those ships had the misfortune of enduring the humans of Fura, but typically it did not last."

She then glared at Jade. "What do you believe happened when those funds began to expire?"

"Why ask me?" He asked calmly, meeting her glare.

"You are the human most enamored with the idea of monetary gain amidst this group. While you may have lived most of your life in Sinnoh, I am sure that you have been taught of the actions of your ancestors."

At the mention of his ancestors he looked down for a moment before looking back up at her. "They went to the wilderness to take back the pokemon Octavia had saved."

Violet nodded. "At this point, things had yet to deteriorate further. So they were driven away, with their lives intact. They took to abusing the land they could, refitting their prison into a hub of tourism, so money would come to them. Compassionless though they were, risking the wrath of a deity was not something they were to do."

Her fists clenched, nearly drawing blood. "Until they decided that they wanted more."

"Lightning is many things. Fast, powerful, loud, uncontrollable. Lightning is not known to snuff out flames."

"A wildfire," I muttered solemnly.

"It was apocalyptic. A wildfire, ignited across the compound's borders in the dead of night, when most Pokemon would be asleep and unready to defend their home." If looks could kill, hers would've atomized the whole of Sunyshore. Her fists were clenched so tight her nails nearly drew blood. "There was only so much that Octavia was able to do. She saved all she could, but a swath of the woodlands was razed to ash and charcoal. It was only halted by the efforts of her, the Pokemon of the woodlands, and a rainstorm that may have been summoned by Lugia. Whatever its origin, the flames of the forest did die down."

"What also died were all who lit the fires that night. Octavia exacted just retribution for the lives they took, eviscerating all who would scorch the world to further their own ends."

{As she should. Causing wildfires to decimate your enemies is an evil I cannot forgive. We all share and benefit from the land, it is self harm to destroy it,} Lou approved.

"An atrocity humans are all too familiar with." She sighed. "They had shown where they stood. And as a result, any from outside of Fura Forest are rebuffed if they do not enter via the singular port the filth spires are connected to. Interfering too much with humans would cause more havoc the island cannot afford, but letting them do as they please is not an option. The sands of time have worn away much outside knowledge of the city outside of specific unsavory circles and luck."

She looked at us, eyes hard. "That is the prison I was born into. A concrete prison where the lifeless hum of electronics, festering constructs of humans and their garish glare are all that fill its streets. No Pokemon fly amidst the clouds or perch on roofs. None scamper across its walls or through alleys with the freedom they deserve by right of living. Either they are not there at all, or condemned to a life of enslavement by the vile wardens who believe such irredeemable acts are their right."

She let that hang in the air. Eva's team looked thoroughly uncomfortable, yet also sharing a silent conversation with their eyes. They definitely already wanted to help, but Violet and Amethyst already would've resolved this if they could have.

Shizu appeared satisfied, as though this was along the lines of what she expected. She wasn't happy about it though. Jade crossed his arms, brooding.

Holyn and Cenza were getting emotional, clinging to Lou for emotional support. He was firm and stable as always, listening intently and likely formulating his own plans on how to prevent more pain.

As for me… yeah, this tracked as to why Violet loathed humans, but she also mentioned Octavia being her mother. There was still a lot more to say and I needed to hear it all to process.

"The humans who birthed me attempted to impress its notions upon me. That Pokemon are tools to be used, that a wild, thoughtless, cursed beast lives within Fura Forest who would slaughter any 'higher being' who dare enter. That the purpose of humans is to bend the world to our whim, as we are the 'superior' entities."

The first small smile I'd seen on Amethyst since this whole thing started crossed her face as Violet, with deadly conviction, spoke. "I believe I have already made my stance on such abhorrent matters evident."

Zenara patted Violet's leg, earning her an affectionate look before Violet continued. "They were displeased with my ability to have compassion and not simply absorb the drivel they spat. When coercion did not work as they pleased, they attempted force via many methods. It did not work."

{Doesn't mean it didn't suck though…} Zenara spoke up, looking at us. {Amethyst told me more about it, since Violet's not… one to value herself as much as she should. It's…} she grimaced. {You know those evil families in the shows Holyn sometimes watches? Think that.}

Violet simply made a hum of acknowledgement before continuing. "They did not allow me to exit the household. I did not listen, as even though I have no interest in the activities of humans, they are wont to discard items that yet hold use." Her murderous look from before returned. "Or, in the case of petulant young humans, people."

She stroked Amethyst's back gently. "I found her during one of my excursions. Helped her hide. I could not bring her to the household, she would be enslaved. I could not leave her to be taken on the streets, for fear of worse. So I did what I felt would be best for her; spirit her away to the forest, that held a guardian who would allegedly end any human who stepped foot within. She would be safe there."

There was a heavy pause at the end of that statement, the only one who seemed immune to its weight being Violet herself.

{So you went to a place where it's said the guardian would kill any human that set foot… as a human,} Marjorie repeated, just to really hammer it in.

Violet nodded as though it was a simple conclusion. "It was where she would be safest. I saw no point in continuing my existence, at the very least I could use it to bring someone to safety with the pitiful capability I had."

Zenara hugged Violet. {Well your existence matters to me an' Amethyst, so don't do stuff like that anymore.}

Violet simply rubbed Zenara's head before continuing. "No assistance was required in ending my life, for the land nearly did it for the world. A boulder would have crushed us both, so I threw Amethyst to safety. What I had not anticipated in any scenario was Octavia then rushing in and taking me out of its path."

A slightly more wistful look crossed her face. "As is the case with humans, they demonize that which they cannot control. Octavia did not cut me down because she saw I was willing to give my life for Pokemon, marking me in her eyes as someone worth saving. I would have gone back to the city, but Amethyst insisted that if she was to live in the forest, so would I. And so we lived in the forest as sisters."

She gazed at the dome above us, seeing something in its reflections we couldn't. "That is where we learned. To cook, to survive, to create, to fight. I could never contribute as much as I should have been able to, but I did all I could. Octavia retrieved items from the city that a human cannot live without due to inept constitution, then technology to allow me to continue my efforts to learn. If humans are going to create tools, they should be used to better the world. That is all I can do as a human. Make up for my lack of abilities and attempt to create a world that does not produce such entities in the first place."

"We learned the way things should be. The gentle rustle of leaves and grass amidst the wind, the echoing calls of Pokemon as they live with the land, not abuse it. The light beaming down from the sun, dwindling before giving way to the twinkling stars of the night sky and gentle embrace of moonlight. The humidity before a storm, the frigid crunch of snow. How the land sings, and its inhabitants sing back in harmony that revitalizes both."

There was another pause. Amethyst was ever focused on the dome enshrouding us, but I noticed her expression soften at the way Violet described the forest.

She sighed, looking back down. "But as they are wont to do, humans are ever elated to crush peace. After many years living within the woods, the humans who birthed me realized they could use my existence as an excuse to send foolhardy or foul outside trainers into the woodlands to capture me and the Pokemon residing there. Octavia could not simply slaughter them; Fura City, by this point, is nigh on contained. Provoking the outside world would result in more damage to the forest, those who live there, give the humans what they want."

"So there was only one effective option. Remove myself from the forest and attempt to learn enough to one day solve the issue Fura City poses for good, without inducing the ire of humans who would in turn raze the forest as retribution for their own cruelty."

She kept stroking Amethyst's back. "Amethyst refused to let me travel on my own, so with the blessing of our mother and those of the forest, supplies she recovered from the city for us, and the hope that we may one day rid the world of the scourge humans blight it with, we departed."

"For three and some odd years we traveled on our own. Until I discovered that the one who had left Amethyst to die or worse in that filthy cesspit of despair and depravity that its denizens call a city of wonder had plans to return. Not to Fura, but to southern Sinnoh. When we finally arrived at the Grand Lake Hotel, Amethyst heard the familiar cries of simian pokemon associated with our target. We followed the noise to find a boy dashing through the woods accompanied by three electric types, shielding a Dedenne," She looked at me. "You are aware of the rest."

So that's what led up to that fateful encounter.

{So the cursed beast was never a beast, she's a guardian… and your mom,} Holyn contemplated, thinking on something. {I knew it, even back then. Kakuen was wrong; he never would understand what you guys have been through and what your mom had to do.}

"He was taught and broken by humans," Violet replied simply. "I still pity that he was forced to fester in their depravity, but hopefully his next life is one in a land humans will never touch."

"Is this why you two always say Sunyshore can never be your home? Because in the end you have to go back and liberate Fura Forest from the city? To free your true home?" I asked. I needed that solid answer.

She nodded. "It is that in part. Large part, but part nonetheless. The other aspect is that in a sprawling construct of humans, a place where the stars are not the only lights when the sky turns dark, a place where the most prevalent hum is that of electronics and not the whistle of the grasses or the buzz of insects, neither of us will ever feel truly safe. It is emblematic of everything humans would do to the world, regardless of whether they have been kept in check or not."

She looked directly into my eyes. "We of the forest already know what happens when humans are left to their constructs without rigid supervision."

"I see… from your perspective… I understand," I replied sadly.

Sunyshore is too modernized for most regular people in Sinnoh, why would they be an exception? They'd feel more strongly about it than anyone else.

{If you need to liberate the island so badly, why can't you find and ask Lugia? Doesn't your mother know them?} Flax inquired.

"Our mother and Lugia had a working relationship. They knew each other, but were not close. Amethyst has attempted to contact them psychically, but her sensory abilities have never reached them. I do not blame them for avoiding the island," Violet explained.

"So what's your ultimate goal here?" Eva questioned. "You haven't asked for League help even though we all know Cynthia would give it. You've yet to ask for our help. Where are you two going with this, Violet? If there's an entire city filled with cruel humans, we should be mobilizing."

"They wouldn't do that," I replied as Violet opened her mouth before pausing, while I faced Eva. "If their mom is anything like them, she trusts them and the select few in their circle to handle this. Not a group of faceless humans and trainer pokemon they barely know, that's how you lose control of everything you've been trying to protect."

I turned to Violet. "I'm assuming we are the few."

Violet nodded to me. "We are the lightning bolt that will strike down the city. The League, regardless of their intentions, is a storm that would disrupt a land that has already been disrupted far too much." She looked at Eva. "Our plan will take time and we have our reasons for involving each of you."

{I do not share any specific ire towards humans, but even I would prefer to only involve those I know rather than summon the upper echelons of the League in the event the Compound Corps met a threat they could not handle,} Lou admitted. {I do not know those people well, but I know all of you and the people of Sunyshore. I imagine it's similar for them to a more extreme extent.}

She nodded gratefully at Lou before looking at Meliae and Rheneas. "I know you desired to accompany us, but I must ask; do you still hold that desire, knowing what we aim to do?"

Meliae nodded, looking directly at Violet. {I wanted to join you to make positive change. And now we come to find out that it's not just our forest you seek to liberate. If anything this has strengthened my resolve; I'll stand by your side when we liberate your home and beyond.}

Rheneas went over to hug her. {You lived through the rise of the people you stopped from destroying our home. We're gonna make things right. I'm not strong like Meliae, but if I can help, just let me know!}

She smiled gratefully at the two of them. "Thank you. The both of you. It is an honor to know you will walk this path with us."

She turned to Eva next. "You are connected to Highshire and do not share their disdain for life and freedom. I request that when the time comes, you aid us how you can, and in the meantime inform me if the name Fura arises in any capacity within Highshire's circles."

"I see now… we can keep an ear out," Eva acknowledged.

{And we can be discreet! You should see how many businessmen never suspect the innocent Delcatty on their windowsill is the one stealing their shipping statements right from their desk,} Sylvia meowed mischievously.

"Thank you for your assistance," Violet said as she turned to Jade. "I request that you inform me if Fura is brought up in any circles you find yourself in. And that if you aid us, you do not utilize a remote camera in the vicinity of the forest."

Jade folded his arms. "I'm still shocked I'm even here, even if I could be useful. I'm not like the rest of you, brimming with altruism. I do what I have to to better my standing. What makes me trustworthy?"

"You stayed when I stated that you must keep this information private under threat of death. That was not a threat. That was a promise," Violet replied simply.

Jade and Violet shared an intense staring contest. The fact they haven't tried to harm each other in all these months was staggering to me, quite honestly. Although, I knew Jade in a way most people didn't see. He could be trusted.

Flax sighed, turning to Violet. {This hot and cold routine is tiresome. Jade has no interest in betraying you and I can tell you why.}

"Spilling my motives, Flax?" Jade mused.

{There are no motives because there's nothing to gain. We also have nothing to gain from criminals; they disgust us. Jade is not evil, he's just challenging in a different way than Violet is,} Flax spoke up, shaking his bouquets. {If you didn't trust us, you wouldn't have let us in or Amethyst would've advised against it. And I know Topaz is likely going to say something foolhardy like if Jade dies, so do I and that creates an annoying domino effect.}

He clocked me.

{We'll help you, but under no 'promises of death'. We'll do it because we… cohabitate well.}

{So you agree, right? We're all one big family?} Zenara broached, causing Flax to turn his head in embarrassment.

"Jade is one to deal in certainties and clear statements. He is still being influenced by those with more outward compassion, and in the interest of sidestepping queries of 'is that enough for you', I reiterated the ultimatum," Violet answered.

"Do you enjoy making everything harder, Jade? You couldn't have just said, yes I'll help you?" Eva begged.

Jade scoffed. "Then she really wouldn't believe me."

"He gave the not-thoroughly-worthless human answer," Violet noted. "That was expected."

So if he gave a straight answer right now she wouldn't trust him? Hoo boy.

"Shaymin help me," Eva stressed. "So you're helping them right?"

{We meet many people on our own excursions. We'll relay anything we hear to Amethyst and the others relating to Fura,} Gautier clarified.

"Didn't I just say that?" Jade teased.

"In so many words, not really, but now I know thanks," Eva retorted exasperated.

"Thank you for your continued support," Violet stated towards them.

She gazed up at Rogelio. "I would only ask that you inform us if word of Fura reaches your ears amidst those of the land, and aid us when they time comes if you would."

{You only need to think and I will be there,} Rogelio answered.

Finally, Violet looked at me. "I request that you aid us when the time comes, and that you inform me if Fura arises in any League circles you know of. I will not ask you to remove the pertinent info yourself, you have a future within the boundaries of human society. I do not want that life, so I do not mind if it is me they are after."

I smiled back at her. "We're basically foster siblings at this point. I'm here for you guys as long as you'll have me. I'll help you two however I can to save innocents, even if I have to stretch the rules like when we first met."

{Just don't make us fight Roland or the gym. I really don't know how I'd explain treason to my parents,} Donut half joked.

Violet gave us a small smile. "If it brings you any peace of mind, mother is essentially a fundamental counter to Volkner, so in a battle it would be counterintuitive to request you fight them to begin with."

{No one is fighting each other, Donut, do not worry,} Lou appeased Donut before he could tell her that treason by association didn't help either. {As for myself, while it appears your oversized god chicken has failed you, I will not. You have our aid when the time comes, just call upon us and we will be there.}

I noticed Amethyst's eyebrow raise and the dome shimmer ever so slightly before her face hardened once more, the barrier reaffirming itself. Lou's blasphemy towards Lugia even threw Violet off as she took a second to process before she nodded at him and looked at Holyn. "I apologize for this almost certainly being more than you expected when you asked about Fura. Our origins are rife with complications."

{That's okay, life is full of problems, but that's why we come together to solve them! I had a feeling things were gonna be different after I joined the team when Rogelio started speaking into our heads, but I'm here to stay!} Holyn affirmed proudly.

{To make sure no other pokemon has to feel the pain I felt when I was captured, I'll help you. Anytime you need to fight evil humans, please never hesitate to ask me! I'll always help!} Cenza pleaded with absolute determination.

"We will not. I assure you of that."

"I never thought the day would come so soon that you'd open up to us like this. I know how difficult it is for you to open up towards humans. Sunyshore City might not be your home, but as long as I'm around you'll always have a place here. So let's keep working at it, alright?" I asked, extending a fist bump.

"Indeed," she replied with a small smile, bumping me back. "Thank you, all of you."

She then gazed towards us all. "Once Amethyst dispels the barrier, I request that you never speak of Fura by name, only by proxy to us, and not at all to anyone else. Not even to Wilona, Dijon or Roland. Understood?"

"I swear by Shaymin's grace," Eva vowed.

"There's not much to say, so I'll say nothing," Jade said casually.

"Got it. We'll leave it alone for now, just let us know when you need us," I replied.

Violet nodded, Amethyst breathing out as the dome around us vanished within the second before refurling her ears, blowing a raspberry and falling back into Violet's stomach. She shot a glance at Flax and Jade. {Yo, you got any catnip on you?}

Jade smirked as he removed a packet from his bag, handing it to her. Sylvia's eyes widened as he handed her a packet as well.

{Can always count on you for grass,} she chuckled before curling up in Violet's lap.

"Business as usual," I joked, earning a chuckle from Eva. Even Violet smiled at that.

Yellow, green, blue and violet. We're a colorful bunch, in more ways than one from what I've been told. It may not always seem we get along, but we all complement each other really well. In truth, it's because we're so colorful that we're able to shine together.

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Author's Note: Tada, Chapter 50 and to celebrate we finally get Flax's evolution and Violet & Amethyst's backstory! Inspired by the pokemon movie The Power of Us, we felt it really fit the duo as their origin story. I just want to say we are so thankful towards everyone that has read all the way to chapter 50! We have no intention of stopping, so let's see how far the cast will come by chapter 75!

-It took so long to get here but I'm glad we are here! It felt fitting for chapter fifty to have something more major (and longer, Lux has more sensible lengths for chapters but I have no regrets). Also, Zeraora don't get anything and I'm glad to finally have them be both namedropped and important to a story.

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Group

Gym Trainer: Topaz Heart

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

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

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Human Companion: Violet

Pokemon Family: Amethyst (MeowsticF), Zenara (Flaaffy), Meliae (Tropius).

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Blooming Celebrity: Jade Forrest

Co-Stars: Flax (Roserade), Shizu (Houndoom), Gautier (Dottler).

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Family: Cenza (Dedenne), Rogelio (Calyrex), Rheneas (Spoink).

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Aspiring Lady: Evangeline 'Eva' Morebucks

Ladies of Grace: Marjorie (Tsareena), Sylvia (Delcatty), Clarabel (Lairon).

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Compound Corps

Founders: Lou Vikavolt (Founder-General), Clover Vespiquen (Chief Queen), Wormadam (Founder), Mothim (Founder), Dustox (Founder).

Members: Tanya Kleavor (Sky Shredder General), Cinnamon (Queen Consort), Sky Shredder Battalion.