In an increasingly dark Pokemon World, a human wakes up to find himself transformed into a Scorbunny, and is thrust into an adventure far beyond he would ever expect.
An adventure where there is far more than meets the eye.
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the properties that will be mentioned or explored in this story. They are all owned by individuals with alot more clout then I do. I do not make, nor intend to make any money off this story. It is a fanfic that is for fun and to get myself out there, and not for profit. That is all on the matter.
Note from the Author: Right, since this is my first second time writing a fanfic, feel free to go ahead and rip parts of this to shreds. It is mainly out here for fun. After all, I need something to keep my sanity up. This fanfic will be avaliable on Spacebattles, Sufficent Velocity and Frozen in Carbonate, thought I might expand it to other sites, such as the main fanfic site at a later date. As for when I can get posts up, I don't know myself, but I will aim to get updates within around 1-4 days if I can. Do note that I am actively employed, I run a large RP and I am currently working on and awaiting responses for my first novel and have started work on a short story, so I can't guarentee rapid replies. Please don't prod me, I will get round to it!
Also, as a warning. This series will get dark at times. Sure there are a few laughs and heartwarming moments, but it is a dark setting compared to regular PMD. There will be curses and possible gore in here, although I will be always keep this SFW. Either way, you have been warned.
Now, without further ado...
Just a space for chapters when no one wants to bother with threadmarks:
For now, enjoy a short prologue to get you excited.
PROLOGUE
And so… it begins.
Come with me, if you will 'Observer'. For you are about to enter a new world. One of many. It's a peaceful world, where individuals of many different species come together… to work together… for the betterment of all.
Now… I imagine… we should start with a quick personality quiz?
Something chuckles in the darkness…
I'm joking.
That something now sighed…
I shouldn't in truth. It's not that simple. This world has often teetered so close to the edge so many times that… it's inhabitants have changed somewhat. They aren't as kind or as noble as they had been decades ago or even just a couple of years. Of course, some do hold onto those ideals of old. Try and help people or make new discoveries… but it is not an easy path. Even before the calamities it has been like this but now… it's been slowly made even worse as the distrust and anger slowly bubbles to the surface. Every time this world comes closer together, it breaks apart just as quickly. There has been too much strain… and pain that it's inhabitants have suffered.
Would you be surprised that these inhabitants were Pokémon?
Do not forget, these are living beings. And they are not the Pokémon you may remember.
Or perhaps you do remember? The way they arrive has always been shrouded in some kind of mystery until the end and even when the answers are revealed… it's never been entirely consistent.
Something brings you here. Are you here by choice? Or are you lost on this world?
Hmm… until you find that answer, please, come with me. Follow my voice. You may sense me only as a presence, at the corner of your spirit… but in truth I'm not actually with you. I am elsewhere in this world, working at unravelling a truth that has evaded me for so long.
But I will watch you all from a distance. To the best of my ability. I can promise you that.
Don't be afraid. None of you alone.
…I see… you can sense their arrival. Another one… I figured the world was reaching another period of danger… I cannot make certain of who they are or what they may become… or even what they are here for. However, this cannot be a coincidence.
We will have to find that truth at another time. Stay close to them. But don't get too close… you don't want them to lose their mind.
Trust me… I know…
And who knows? Maybe there will be more to this world... and beyond... that meets the eye...
The view had been truly spectacular from the sky. Islands stretching out as far as the eye could see, each and every one of them lush with life. Green trees laid out across each landmass, surrounding the grey and brown mountains, topped with snow white peaks. They towered above the brilliant azure seas, the waters of which gently rolled onto the white sands that made up the beaches.
From this bird's eye perspective, one could see that the islands themselves were not devoid of activity. Walking along the beaches, through the forest trails, working on the fields and surfing through the waters, Pokémon of nearly every kind and type went about their daily lives. Most moved across the land, interacting with each other in and around small villages scattered across the islands. They were simple places. Most of the structures were wooden, sometimes mixed in with stone buildings that were placed here and there. One could see the odd cart on the roads connecting the villages on the little islands, whilst on the water, small boats journeyed between them all. Amongst them, most were accompanied by one of the resident water-types that called the sea home whilst flying-types would glide alongside them.
Each of these islands surrounded a much larger landmass that dwarfed the others. But it was no natural feature that dominated that land.
On the northernmost tip of that continent, a colossal fortress sat atop a bluff connected to the mainland by a pair of stone arches. Stone walls rose for dozens of metres around it's base, with towers reaching up even higher beyond that. Flying above the castle, one could see a vast courtyard that seemed to separate the main castle's battlements from a smaller outer wall that secured access to the stone arches that led to it. Dozens, if not hundreds of Pokémon strolled through this courtyard between the gatehouses. Some clearly looked like villagers and merchants, but many had an air of… duty around them. Some stood guard at the gateways, whereas others happily chatted with the locals moving through the courtyard, each one wearing an armband around their arm and many were carrying a satchel on their person. Each conversation was warm, if borderline familial in appearance.
Powerful. They seemed like it anyway.
And yet, very closely trusted.
The world blinked.
The sun was gone. Storm clouds crackled overhead, hiding away the sky. Waves slammed into the rocks with thunderous booms, sending up dark sprays up into the air. The land was shrouded in shadow.
But the castle, and its surroundings, were now in flames.
The outer wall had been thoroughly smashed up, with many gaping holes in its fortifications. Inside the courtyard, what had been a peaceful scene had erupted into chaos. A gigantic force was swarming through the breaches in the outer wall, all of them Pokémon. It was hard to tell who they were. Some looked like they were wearing the attire and gear of the villagers, but others wore dark armbands that looked far more menacing than those of the castle's inhabitants.
At the inner gate, those very same inhabitants with their lighter coloured armbands stood against the massed attackers. Above them all, flying Pokémon duelled above their heads, or launched strafing attacks on the fortress itself with their elemental moves. On the ground, the defenders were outnumbered, either struggling to fend off a massed offensive on their own or forming part of a defensive line. But even with their backs to the wall, they were holding their positions. Each one of the defenders was more of a match for multiple attackers, and even the ones on their own were able to keep most of their threats at bay. Some still fell to the onslaught, but it almost seemed at first glance, they were beginning to push the invaders back.
That was when the dark green ball of energy fell from the sky. One of the defenders looked up, and tried to cry out a warning.
The energy ball slammed into the centre of the defensive line and detonated with a blinding flash of light. Many of the defenders screamed as they were thrown clear of the blast zone, the attackers recoiling from the massive strike, ceased their assault.
A thick ash cloud slowly began to fade away with the moans of the injured defenders, many trying to scramble back to their feet. Others were caught out, set upon by the raging mob of attackers.
Amongst the green flames, the dark Pokémon landed with a thud. Its black fur would have made it invisible without the fire to light it up. Green vines pulsed around its arms as its head snapped up, revealing it's bright, almost demonic red eyes.
The Zarude looked upon the wounded defenders with an almost hungry gaze as it rose to its feet. A few of the defenders, eyes widening with fear started to back up, weakening their defences. Likewise, even the attackers seemed spooked, backing away and clearing a space for the new arrival.
A cold, evil grin formed on the Zarude as it glanced back down towards the ground, watching as one defender, a Machoke, tried to drag himself away from danger. The simian approached, raised its right foot…
And slammed it down on the defender's neck with a vicious crack. The Machoke's eyes widened, a faint gasp escaping as its body went limp. A flicker of intelligence remaining evident before finally, its gaze went blank.
The defenders shuffled back, fear becoming terror as the Zarude's smile grew even more morbid. It started to approach again.
A blue bolt flashed as it struck the ground with a sharp thundercrack, all Pokémon, attacker and defender alike, flinched backwards as the electrical energy sparked across the battlefield, separating the two sides.
All except the Zarude, whose smile vanished completely.
As the electricity faded away, a patch of clouds parted, revealing the untouched splendour of the moon and shining a new light onto the fortress.
Standing before the Zarude, holding position in front of the defenders was a yellow and black Pokémon. Humanoid in shape, its jagged fur glistened in the light as a lightning bolt shaped tuft of fur hung from its upper back. A pair of bright blue eyes glared at the Zarude with untold intensity.
A Zeraora.
The Zarude seemed to hesitate for the briefest of moments.
Then it let out a bestial roar, a green vine unravelling from one of its arms into a whip, pulsing with dark green energy as it snapped round. Air rushed around the Pokémon, tugging at the other Pokémon present who once more retreated.
Unbowed, the Zeraora merely cracked its fists together, blue electricity sparking as its eyes narrowed.
And with that, it broke out into a run, a snarl forming as it charged for the Zarude.
The Zarude, whip still flailing in the air, charged forward, whipping it down towards its new opponent.
The Zeraora leapt forwards, it's fist crackling with energy.
The whip and fist connected.
And with that, the fortress and everyone within it were engulfed in light.
That was quite the sight, wasn't it?
Darkness engulfed everything, from every direction. The voice, intimidating but warm likewise came from all sides.
I do not know what that was, or when it was. But it is a most curious thing, is it not? I only caught a glimpse of it.
But alas… now I have found you… I suppose I must only say one thing.
It seemed to take a breath.
So… it begins.
The darkness seemed… almost inviting.
Come with me, if you will. 'Observer'. Yes. That is what I shall call you for now. I might as well guide you into this world. A new world for you, I imagine. It's one of many. A peaceful world, where individuals belonging to many different species have come together. To work together, for the betterment of all.
Now. I imagine… we should start with a quick personality quiz?
The voice chuckled within the darkness.
I'm joking.
A sigh echoed by.
I shouldn't. In truth, it's not that simple. This world has teetered so close to the edge so many times that… its inhabitants have changed somewhat. They aren't as kind or as noble as they had been decades ago. Or in a couple of years ago even. Of course, some do hold onto those ideals of old. They try and help others, or make new discoveries.
But it is not an easy path. Even before the calamities, it has been like this. But now… it's slowly become worse. Distrust and anger has slowly bubbled to the surface. Every time this world comes closer together, it fractures just as quickly. There has been too much strain. Too much pain for the inhabitants to try and wash away.
Would you be surprised that these inhabitants are creatures called Pokémon?
Do not forget, these are living beings. And I sense they are not the Pokémon you may remember.
Or perhaps you do remember? The way they arrive has always been shrouded in some kind of mystery until the end. Even when the answers are revealed, it's never been an entirely consistent set.
Something has brought you here. Are you here by choice? Or are you lost on this world?
Hmm… until you find that answer, please, come with me. Follow my voice. You may sense me only as a presence at the corner of your spirit. But in truth I'm not actually with you physically. I am elsewhere in this world, working at unravelling a truth that has evaded me for so long.
But I will watch you all from a distance to the best of my ability. I can promise you that.
I see you can sense their arrival. I cannot make certain of who they are or what they may become. Or even what they are here for. But the fact you are… drawn to them. And at such a time when this world has entered another dangerous time cannot be mere coincidence.
We will have to find that truth at another time. Stay close to them. But don't get too close. You don't want them to lose their mind.
Trust me. I know.
And who knows? Maybe there will be more to this world, and beyond… that meets the eye.
POKÉMON MYSTERY DUNGEON GUARDIANS OF BALANCE
ALWAYS AUDACITY
CHAPTER I: WAKE UP
Initially, he could only see darkness. It was all he knew. Just this inescapable, unknowable blackness.
Then, slowly, little by little, the light began to appear before him. Constantly shifting and evolving, flowing almost like water. The reds shifted into oranges, then yellows and so forth. His mind wandered, wondering what he had to have had in order to get such a vision. Something in the water maybe, he imagined. Then again, his body didn't feel sore.
Wait. I've just woken up; how do I know what water and a body feels like? Wait… yeah, of course I know what a body is! I should have one!
No, this was worse. He couldn't feel his body at all. Legs, limbs, head and yet he still had senses. At least partially anyway. He could see these colours, obviously. And he could hear a faint hum that almost sounded oddly rhythmic.
Okay… is this some kind of dodgy dream?
Even without his body, he could sense himself moving – somehow - forwards. No. He was being pulled onwards. It was strange, he couldn't physically move even if he had a body at this point. Maybe he was just dreaming. But where was he sleeping? In a house? Had to be. He tried to imagine having an actual arm and yet nothing happened.
The colours wavered before him, and a very faint star seemed to blink into view before him. Growing that little bit brighter, that bit bigger.
Am… maybe this is me waking up. Weird way of doing it...
And with that, the star began to blink. Hang on-
"Hello?" came a quiet voice, "Can… can you hear me?".
He felt a strange warmth run through him. Compelling him to move further on. H-Hi? I can… what's going on? This has to be a dream… right?
There was a moment of silence, the little star ceasing to blink for a moment, before it started again… "You can? Great! Listen… I don't have much time…"
The voice wavered for a moment. And with that, he began to feel drowsy… the light and the colours seeming to dim before him. "Oh no… listen to me! You need to save…"
What? I-I can't hear you… I'm…
His thoughts began to blur together, the lights now fading away, the hum ceasing. The star the only thing left he could even see. "Please! All of this… it needs saving…
Save… save what…
He could sense himself slipping away. I… can't…
"You need t-"
The light faded away.
And he slowly, so did he…
"Sam!-"
He moaned as he slowly come to, feeling his body ache in protest. He snapped his eyes open, only to cry out as the light flashed onto his retinas. Nearly blinded, he squeezed them tight again. Was he under attack? No… he could feel the warmth soak through his skin.
The sun? Yeah, has to be. Just like…
…
When did I last feel sunlight?
Wait! Do I even know my own name!?
"Sam!-"
He shivered. That voice.
Sam?
The memory rushed through him, and with that, it clicked. Sam… my name is Sam! Damn, glad I know that at least!
Sam opened his eyes again, much more carefully this time. Thankfully, instead of being blinded, he slowly gained a blurry view of the world. He could just make out trees around him and blue skies above him. His other senses started to emerge. He felt himself curled up on his side, could smell the fresh grass he was on and heard the sound of leaves rustling peacefully in the wind and the light trickle of flowing water.
Water.
A faint itch worked its way through Sam's throat, forcing him to take a sudden breath in surprise.
Damn. How long have I been out?
If he had even been out at all?
His arms even more blurry than the trees around him, he slowly pushed himself up to his hands and knees. His eyes flickered around and settled on the familiar shape of a pool of water. Vision be damned, he could at least tell that.
Grunting, he crawled over to the pool and, without delay, scooped up some of the water in his hands and gulped it down, feeling the cool water that spilled out drip down his chest.
Seriously, how long was it since I last drank?
He blinked as he stared down at his hands... they remained blurred, but he could make out they were some kind of gloves. Completely white and – Wait. They were very small.
What did he even look like?
Splashing his face with a handful of water, Sam wiped his face clean and with a quick shake of his head, focused his gaze at his hands and at last, his vision began to clear.
Sam's hands drifted back into view. They were white, covered in fur.
But something felt wrong. Deeply wrong. This couldn't be right to him.
I'm human.
And with that, his vision cleared entirely. He realised they weren't hands. They were paws with three little digits. Huh?
He dropped the paws, finding himself looking at a weird rabbit. One that was staring back at him from the water. Covered almost entirely in white fur… save for a little patch of orange across its nose, a flash of reddish orange on the tops of its ears, and finally a pair of eyes with bright orange irises…
Its mouth dropped open, showing a pair of brilliant white buckteeth. "What?"
The realisation hit him like a punch to the gut.
He sprung upright, paws snapping up to his chest, digits running through his fur and past his ears as the instinctively flicked aside. No no! It can't be-
"I'm a bloody Scorbunny!?" he exclaimed, "What the flying!?-"
He stumbled back, crying out as fell back onto his backside. He panted, trying to bring his heartrate down, his breathing under control. "H-How? I'm human! Now I'm a Pokémon? How's that supposed to…"
His voice trailed off. This can't be right. it can't be.
Slowly, he crawled back forward towards the water's edge. And once more found the reflection of that Scorbunny. Of him – Sam - staring back up at him… "I…" he fell silent. All he could do was simmer in the simple, plain fact of reality that happened to be staring straight back at him.
ALWAYS AUDACITY
CHAPTER II - FORWARDS AND ONWARDS
The sky was almost picturesque. A big bright sun, a few fluffy white clouds over there. Lots of strong trees topped with emerald green leaves. Not that they were actually emeralds just regular…
Groaning, Sam thumped his head against the tree he leaned against. He was still half convinced that this was some kind of dream, even if the slight throb running down his forehead seemed to confirm that, yes, this was all real.
"Come on!" he growled, pounding his paw into the bark. "I've got to remember something from before… err…" He chewed on his lip, his mind going blank. "Okay okay… my name is Sam… I'm – was human… obviously I'm a guy… unless I'm non-binary or… hang on, where did I hear about that?"
…
"Dang it." he hissed, "No idea."
Slowly, he began to pace, questioning his memory. Trying to glean something from before. Where did he come from?
No idea.
Okay, what did he look like as a human?
…nothing.
He grumbled to himself. How old was he?
"25."
His eyes widened in delighted, "H-Hey! I know my age at least! So what did I-"
Sam's mind went blank again. "Dang it!"
Angrily, he swivelled round and booted the nearest tree. But as his paw connected, his entire leg turned to jelly as the pain rushed up it. Crying out, he hopped away, clutching his foot as it throbbed. Okay mate… calm down, stop acting like some bratty kid!
Taking a deep breath, Sam forced himself to relax, rubbing the back of his head. Probably some weird fire rabbit hormones or something he figured.
And then there was that voice. The… star? If it was even one. Asking him for help. But help with what? Did they want help? Someone else? He shook his head, maybe it was tied to him being a Scorbunny?
He frowned to himself, They knew me too… but… how? I don't… damn it, I can't remember that either.
With a shake of his head, he rubbed his paws together. Alright, forget about the memories… I need to find some help first.
He slowly spun on his foot, scanning his surroundings. Other than the pool of water he had found himself next to, the only other feature of note was an opening in the trees that was a barely marked, dusty path that cut into the woods. Well… it's better than nothing.
And with that, Sam started to jog his way down the path.
It was fairly easy going, twisting and curving through the trees even if the path was barely… well… that at all. The canopy offered plenty of shade from the sun high above his head too, so he wasn't going to cook anyway.
Well… technically I'm already cooked… you know… being a fire type Pokémon and all…
He stopped mid stride, rubbing the back of his head. Hang on… Pokémon have awesome powers right? I should be able to do some fire moves! Err… what moves can I do… Ember I think?
…
Err… how do I do that?
He frowned to himself as he started walking again. So Ember… works out of the mouth right? But I've got ha- paws so… does it come from t-
"-hat seeds are these? Blast Seeds?"
"No, they're regular ones, I told you!"
Sam slowed down again, his ears already twitching around to track down the source. Well, that didn't take long… sounds like… huh, further down the track.
Beating his feet into the dirt, the Scorbunny rushed on ahead, picking up speed as he rushed on ahead. "Damn… they just look the same, you know?"
"The same? They've all got symbols on them you nitwit!"
"You know what I'm like! It's pretty easy for me to mix that stuff up!"
"Symbols!"
Blast Seeds… what? Nevermind. Should be some regular people to talk to.
He emerged into the clearing, paw raised in greeting, "Hey there, look, I'm a bit lost can you?"
The Rattata and Pidgey spun towards him, eyes widening in surprise.
"Ah right… you guy's are Pokémon… right… this is going to be weird, but are there any… trainers near here? I kinda need an idea-"
The Pidgey snapped it's beak with an audible crack, "Trainers? What the hell are you talking about?"
Sam's mouth hung completely open, as the full gravity of what just happened hit him like a sack of bricks. How can I be so stupid?! I can talk so…
It was obvious… he was a Pokémon and could talk regardless… and so could these guys. And frankly, there was only one word he could say in response…
ALWAYS AUDACITY
CHAPTER III – SHOULDA SEEN THAT COMING
*****
Other than the soft rustle of leaves above his head, silence dominated the clearing that the three Pokémon stood in. One the far side, the bird and rat Pokémon staring him down with a mixture of confused and annoyed looks. On his own side, Sam held his ground, frozen in place with his paw still hanging in mid-air in greeting. Okay… this is awkward…
He lowered the paw, "Yeah… sorry about that… didn't exactly have the greatest night." He said, rubbing the back of his head. "Still a little bit… err… hungover…"
The Pidgey and the Rattata glanced at each other, the disgust now being replaced with disbelief. The Pidgey clipped their beak as they looked back at him. "Hungover?"
"Err… yeah?"
"At your age?"
Sam blinked at that, mind initially drawing a blank. Ah… Scorbunny is a pre-evolution, right? Err...
"I was…" he started slowly, trying to work out another solution, "...drinking a lot of juice… but I think someone spiked it."
"Really?"
"Yeah…"
The two Pokémon glanced at each other again, and Sam could tell they didn't quite believe him. The Rattata seemed to shrug half-heartedly, so at first glance, it seemed like they were going to let it slide. Okay, let's get them distracted…
"Hey, I'm kinda lost… do you happen to know where the nearest town is?"
The Pidgey cackled, "Really? It's not that big an island and you managed to get lost?"
"I'm kinda new here. And-"
"You got hungover?" the Rattata interrupted, whiskers twitching.
"…yeah."
Flicking an ear, Sam straightened up, "So can you… you know… point me in the right direction?"
Their eyes flicked back for a second, almost distractedly before the Pidgey nodded. "Sure, just follow the trail that way." He pointed a wing towards another, more defined path through the trees on the other end of the clearing. "That'll take you to the main road."
Suddenly, the Rattata spun on its feathered companion, eyes narrowing. As the Pidgey leaned in, it began to whisper.
Too bad it didn't really recognise the fact that Sam now had pretty big ears. "What are you doing? We don't know where this kid came from!"
"Says the guy who couldn't work out his seeds."
The rat quivered, "Look, you know how no one's evolving again, he could be from one of the teams, or those hunters! Besides, I've never seen Scorbunny around here."
"Come on." The bird hissed, "You said yourself, he's just a kid."
Ears twitching, Sam merely raised up one paw. "Err… first of all… I'm not a kid…"
Well, that's what I think anyway…
"…secondly… look, I can see you guys are a bit on edge. So, I'll just get out of your hair and hit that road."
He started strolling over to the path, keeping one eye on the two Pokémon, "I won't tell anyone you're here either. You don't have to worry about th-"
That was when he saw the yellow shape, jutting out from behind the back of the Rattata, and with that, he stopped mid stride. He was about to brush it off, consider it nothing… but curiosity nibbled at the back of his mind and so… it got the better of him. "Hey, what's that?"
Taking a step back, the Rattata hid the yellow shape away. "It's nothing." The Pidgey said. "Just some berries."
"You said you were looking at seeds though…" Sam mused, taking a few steps closer, trying to peer round, "Unless you guys have berries to-"
The yellow shape reappeared into view… and he recognised it as an arm attached to a little yellow and brown body… covered in blood. Sam froze, his entire body stiffening, "W-wait… is that a-"
He cried out as the Pidgey slammed into his chest headfirst, pain surging across his body as he was sent flying away and onto his back. Groaning, he shoved himself up, just in time to see the Rattata dive towards him, teeth flashing.
"Shit!"
Kicking his feet into the ground, Sam rolled and bounced back, just about evading the attack as the rat slammed head first into the grass. Landing back on his feet, he raised his paws up, eyes flicking between the now hovering bird and the rat. The bird was slowly shaking his head, "I was kinda wishing you didn't see that."
"Now can we deal with the brat?" The Rattata snapped.
"Gonna have to now."
Snarling, Sam bounced from one foot to the other, his heart pounding that little bit harder, ready to fight them off. "So what? You two are just some murderers?!"
The Pidgey snapped his beak, "We're just trying to make a living, this guy just got in the way!"
"Murder is still murder!"
Dragging his feet into the ground, the Rattata growled back, "Can't let you tell the authorities about us…"
Pulling a mock punch, Sam flashed a grin, the confidence flooding through him despite the throbbing chest. "I'm not helpless you know." He said, "Just me against the two of you? It's not like I'm dealing with some big dude huh?"
Something thumped into the ground just behind him, the earth softly quaking under his feet, and with that, the two Pokémon before him seemed to flash… smirks. Sam's smile melted away. "That's exactly who's behind me right?"
"Yep." Replied a deep, rumbling voice behind him.
Slowly, Sam spun on his heel to come face to face with a gigantic Pokémon with two heavily built arms and shorter legs. Not only that, but it was also covered in orange padding and grey fins… a Swampert. It flashed a toothless grin as Sam's confidence vanished, the Scorbunny stumbling back… "Fancy your chances now?"
The Scorbunny resisted the urge for his body to shake. "Err… yeah… I don't think so…"
With that, he snapped forward, crying out and willing the Ember to fire away.
Nothing happened. Blinking, Sam jabbed both paws forward, trying to focus on them, encourage flames to form. "Err…" He thrust them once more… and still nothing happened.
Over his shoulder, the Pidgey and Rattata shared a confused glance.
Sam's eyes widened as he slowly began to back off from the giant Swampert, towering over him.
Okay… kinda need a new plan…
The two started to snigger amongst themselves.
Run?
And finally, it broke out into laughter. "He doesn't even know how to use a move!" the Rattata cackled, "How stupid do you have to be!?"
Yeah… run.
The Swampert frowned. "You know… even if you knew what you were doing, I'm still a water type?"
"Err… yeah… point taken."
And with that, he leapt straight up at the muscular mon. Its eyes widened as it tried to pull back in surprise. But the little Scorbunny was faster, grunting as he booted the bigger Mon in the face. Another few kicks, and Sam was up and over the Swampert, touching down into the grass behind him. "At least I can still move mate!" he teased.
And with that, Sam shot off, running for the woods as fast as his legs would allow. "What are you waiting for you idiots!?" the Swampert rumbled, "After him!"
ALWAYS AUDACITY
CHAPTER IV – STUFF AIN'T WHAT'S IT'S MADE UP TO BE
Sam ducked and weaved, trying to make up the distance between himself and those murdering sods. Licking his lips, he forced a determined look on his face, looking to keep up his confidence as he fled.
The truth was with his heart now pounding in his chest and threatening to blow out of it, he was terrified. Pokémon don't murder things! Do… do they?
He slowed, taking a sharp breath. Okay okay, just need to get to that road… oh shit, what if they were lying about that!?
"Stop pissing around and find that little brat!"
Head snapping round, he could hear the thumping footsteps of that Swampert coming up from behind him. Still chasing him… Dang it… even if I can outrun him, the Pidgey will keep place… I need a better idea and q- wait, the trees!
Eying one particularly big oak, Sam kicked himself up and onto the first branch, grunting as he scrambled to pull himself up and onto it… only to half gasp as he nearly slipped off the otherside with a creak, grabbing hold of a small branch to hold himself there. Right… I have no idea how to climb a tree…
"He went this way!"
Gulping, Sam pulled himself back upto his feet, looked up, and leapt again. Making his way that little bit higher into the tree with each and every jump. Just as he broke into the leaves proper, the Swampert forced his way into the clearing below, eyes narrowed as they scanned all directions. The Pidgey hovered in next to him and finally, the Rattata came in at their rear. Tightening his grip on one of the bark. Come on mates… move on move on…
The Swampert's head snapped towards the Pidgey, a low growl rumbling forth. "I told you not to lose him!"
The bird merely narrowed his eyes, "If we were on a field. Easy. I can either track him or dodge trees. I can't do both."
As the Rattata marched onwards, the big amphibian could only let out a heavy growl in reply, "Grr… Well he can't have got far. If we split up, we might be able to cover more ground."
"He's a Scorbunny, he ain't exactly slow."
"I'm not an idiot! Just… let me think."
The Rattata was now out of view with the other two Mons still at the edge of the clearing. Sam held his breath, trying to not shiver in the treetop. Come on you assholes… get out of here…
At last, the big Swampert seemed to straighten up, eyes fixed on something further ahead on the ground. "Well, let's go a little bit further, see if we can track down that rat a little further. If not, who's gonna believe him anyway? We'll get rid of the bodies and be off this rock before anyone bothers to look."
Bodies? There's more than one!?
Sam watched as the Swampert and the Pidgey drifted by underneath him and out of sight. But he didn't move. He stayed frozen where he was, not even daring to breathe as the footsteps began to fade away.
He waited one minute. Then another.
And after the third, he finally let out a sigh of relief. Okay… better drop down and go a completely different direction bef-
An massive crack rang out beneath him, the entire tree shuddering as the Scorbunny was thrown forward, wrapping his arms round his branch. His heart pounded again as he squirmed. What the flying f-
Something snapped… and he could feel the air shift as the tree began to topple over. "Oh come on!" he barked, as he struggled to get his feet onto the branch… and with another kick, blew clear of the leaves.
Straight into the Pidgey.
Crying out, he tried to throw a wild punch, hoping to catch the bird's wing… but it only tasted thin air as he flailed helplessly before finally hitting the ground with a dull thud. Moaning, Sam pushed himself back up to find himself staring down the Swampert, rubbing his front paws together. That tree was just a punching bag! But how-
Down next to him, the Rattata was flashing a toothy grin at him. Complete with a rather big branch with a handful of leaves hanging out of his mouth. Plus the other pristine leaves all scattered across the ground. He bit of a curse at that. Damn it… must have broke it off when I tried to climb it up! Pushing himself back up to his feet, Sam glared back at the three Pokémon blocking his path again. The Swampert merely pulled it's toothless grin once more. "Think you were being clever huh?"
Suddenly sensing a flare up of heat within him, the Scorbunny raised his paws. "You've still gotta catch me yo-"
All other words were destroyed as the beam of water slammed into his chest. Pain tore through him, his ribs feeling as if they were being crushed as he was thrown back. His breath stolen away. I-I can't m-
He felt his head snap back against something hard, and he saw no more.
*****
Sam groaned as he slowly came to, his entire head throbbing as if someone had rammed an electric toothbrush in his skull. His chest too ached, and for a moment he half thought his ribs were broken. Slowly and weakly, he moved one paw up onto his chest, taking in a sharp intake of breath as pain pulsed along his skin… but it felt intact. His vision blurred, his paw drifting back to behind his head… and when the furry hand came back into view the pristine white paw was now red and dripping with ichor.
"Damn, you survived that? You're tougher than you look."
In that moment, Sam realised that he was being dragged across grass under an open sky. T-The c-clearing? "W-W-Wha… W-Where are you t-taking me?"
"To give you a choice buddy."
The injured Scorbunny could only moan in response, barely noticing his leg getting dropped as his vision cleared a little bit… the dark shape of that big leader. "I was just gonna kill ya. But you're not half ballsy for a rabbit." He grunted, "So I'm gonna give you a choice. You can join our crew and we'll patch you up. Or… well… you can end up like this lot."
Something pushed… no, pulled Sam upright, and his vision, whilst still dark around the edges, cleared up. It was the clearing he had first encountered them and…
His heart went still, unable to tear his eyes away from the bodies. The yellow body from before he recognised as a Pikachu. Their eyes were shut and their face was relaxed… but the amount of blood covering them, especially round their neck… His eyes flicked over to the others. A light blue coloured turtle, it's head twisted at an awkward angle. And another larger bug like mon, wings torn up… and another yellow mon, even smaller than the Pikachu with-
Unable to look any longer, Sam tore his gaze away, his stomach churning from both pain and… that damn sight. "You…" he gasped, "Want me to join you? To kill!?"
"Eh, ruffle them up sure. Kill? Eh, we try and avoid that. But you know what us Pokémon are like. Once we start fighting it's not easy to stop, you know?"
Eyes squeezed shut, the Scorbunny could only shake his head. "B-But this isn't just killing! You've torn them apart!"
He could hear that damn Swampert chuckle behind him, "Hey. We're just doing what we can to get through life. With the disasters coming back, only makes sense. So, whatcha say?"
Feeling the tears forming at the edge of his eyes, Sam slowly pushed himself up, he took a step forward, stumbled. His vision was clearing now, and a quick glance behind revealed the Swampert flanked on both sides by the Pidgey and the Rattata… with bodies in plain view next to them.
No… I'm… he punched the ground and shakingly pushed himself back up. I'm- I'm not…
Stumbling once more, he managed to turn round to face the team, his breathing laboured. "No… I'm not becoming a killer just to stay alive for a few days longer!"
Weakly, he raised his paws up, trying to ready himself for the next blow. "I… I'd rather die."
The Swampert merely shrugged, "Welp… sorry to hear that."
With that he opened his mouth, a blue ball of energy beginning to form within, slowly humming.
His arms continued to shake. Sam knew he wasn't walking away from this, nevermind running. This… it's it…
As the orb started to look like a water ball, Sam could only close his eyes… and brace for the inevitable hit. For his bones to break…
Instead, the hum was cut out, and replaced with an almighty crack… and a surprised cry.
He opened his eyes.
Standing between him and the Swampert was a bipedal, avian like Pokémon with predominately red feathers, although also mixed in with yellow and beige ones too whilst cold, blue eyes were fixed on the water type… who had seemed to have backed off, rubbing his chin as his eyes burned. A… A Blaziken!? Where did he-
"I'm going to give you once chance." Stated the fire-type, eyes seemed to get surprisingly colder. "Hand yourselves in."
"Or what?!" The Swampert barked, "You can't kick my ass!"
"I can. And so can this team."
The Rattata and Pidgey rushed forward, as readying their attacks as they came down on the Blaziken… but Sam barely registered the shapes that rushed past him in a blur and past the fire type.
The Gallarde struck first, it's bladed arm rushing up to meet the Pidgey head on. Sam could just make out the bird's eyes widening before the blade slammed into it's body. With a pained cry, the bird shot up well into the sky and out of view. The Rattata, despite being on the ground, managed to leap back just as the Scyther slashed at him with their own blades. It's teeth flashed as it reared back, glowing as it readied itself for-
Too late, as the second blade struck across the whole length of the Rattata. With little more than a gasp, the rat was tossed aside, rolling across the grassy field as a battered pulp.
The Swampert roared as it charged at the Blaziken, rearing back as it tore a boulder from the ground and tossed it towards the avian.
Without even blinking, the fire-type merely stepped to oneside as the rock flew past and bounced past the still frozen Sam, chips flicking off and landing just in front of him. Only then did they finally strike, leaping up into the air with an almighty kick into the earth.
The Swampert could barely react before the Blaziken's clawed foot slammed down onto his head with an almighty crack. Groaning, he stumbled back, but the Blaziken came after him as then came a barrage of punches and kicks, each one striking the bigger mon in the face. Bloodying it up and driving it back further and further. Sam could only look on in shock as the fighter pummeled the water-type into submission as with a final scream, their legs erupted into flames and struck the Swampert with an powerful snap.
The big brute stumbled back moaning, shuddered… and slammed headfirst into the dirt, out cold.
Sam could tell his mouth was agape, his body still shivering from the surprise… from the power of each strike… and with fear.
Brushing it's shoulder off, the Blaziken turned round to face him.
Sam froze, his heart going cold.
The Blaziken seemed to relax as it looked down on him, it's blue eyes not looking as fierce. Likewise, the other two Pokemon had turned to face him too, looks of concern evident even as the Scyther cast a glance in the direction of the corpses.
The Scorbunny was about to utter a word when something blinked in the sky, just behind the Blaziken. A brown and tan shape diving down at high speed… it's wings glowing white. The Pidgey…
And it was diving straight for the Blaziken.
Something burned within Sam, fear replaced by desperation as his eyes widened. Desperation turned into instinct as some new found strength shot through his body. One eye snapped towards the boulder… and one of the broken fragments directly in front of him.
Screaming, Sam dashed forward… feeling a surge of heat running through his legs as he brought his foot back and brought it down with all the force he could muster.
The pebble ignited instantly, the little fireball shooting forward into the air. Eyes widening, the Blaziken jerked to oneside. Not that it was needed, as the Ember rushed past… and straight at the Pidgey.
The bird screamed as the fireball struck it in the face, the glowing wings fading back to normal as it was tossed back and out of the sky, landing with a dull thud.
Even in his state, Sam could see it's chest smoking.
The Blaziken took a second to glance at the downed Pidgey, before it finally turned back towards the Scorbunny… looking almost amazed… or surprised.
His body was already quivering again, feeling like jelly as he looked up at the evolved fire-type.
Sam just managed to muster up the remaining strength to pull a small grin.
"So… that's how Ember works…"
And with that, Sam toppled forward and fell face first into the dirt.
Just as an update, I'm going to be going ahead with some edits on the original chapters to try and neaten them up, but I am still working on Chapter V for GoB right now. In addition, if I can get through a few more Chapters, this might pop up on FF.net, so any support or feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Hmm… you have been with him for a while. He's alive, I can assure you of that and no, he's not brain dead. He is in capable hands.
Well. As close as can be to hands anyway.
So he is human. Or rather he used to be before he was turned into this Scorbunny. If he is here… then something terrible must be on the horizon. It can't be a mere coincidence.
Is that why you are here? To look over him? To witness this dark event? Or perhaps you are just drawn to this Pokemon.
To this human...
...
…I must withdraw, less my presence gets sensed. You don't get too close either.
But do keep an eye on him will you?
*****
"Hello? Can you hear me?"
H-Hi?
"You can? Great! Listen… I don't have much time…"
"Oh no… listen to me! You need to save…"
What? I… I can't hear you…
"Please! All of this… it needs saving…"
Save… save what… I can't…
"…Sam!"
*****
Sam's eyes fluttered open, That voice… where…
His vision blurred for a moment, then cleared to reveal the wooden ceiling above him. A gentle warmth pulsed across his body, almost like waves running up alongside him. H-Huh? Am… am I dead?
He slowly raised his hands up, only instead to see those white rabbit paws drift into view instead. I… I'm still a Scorbunny.
Moaning softly, he began to push himself upright, soaking in that pink… wait, what?
He looked round himself to find himself on a fluffy bed, his body glowing a soft pink that throbbed and pulsed every second. Every pulse warming him up… strengthening him.
Standing alongside the bed was what looked like a white horse, only it also possessed a massive mane coloured… cyan and pink? And it had a violet horn too that stretched a good way out of it's head. Blue eyes were focused on him as the pink energy flowed around them too. A Unicorn? Wait a minute… it looks like a Rapidash but… I thought it was half on fire… wait… a variant… I think it's a variant.
Blinking once, the pink light faded away from the Rapidash and just a second after that, he looked down to find the pink pulse vanishing into the ether around him. He immediately patted his chest and his head. His ribs no longer ached and when he ran his paw across the back of his head, he couldn't feel the sticky warmth that was blood. They… healed me? I'm alive? So…
He turned to face the Rapidash, that warmth still pulsing inside him despite the power fading away and flashed a friendly grin. "Hey… thanks for-"
The Rapidash's eyes flashed, "What did you think this all was, a free get out of jail service!?"
The warmth immediately vanished as Sam slid away from the horse Pokémon, eyes widening. "W-what? I was just saying tha-"
The horse merely rolled their eyes, "Hmph! Kids these days, thinking they can run off into the wildness and try and be heroes." She snorted in a raspy voice, "Pah! They think twice once they've had a few bones broken and are left hanging from a tree or wrapped in some bug's web! Heal Pulses aren't as easy as some idiots say they are!"
"O-Oi!" Sam snapped, initial shock fading away as he narrowed his eyes, "I'm not a kid!"
Puffing, the Rapidash raised a hoof and jabbed him in the chest. Not enough to hurt, but he still winced and recoiled from the strike. "I don't care if you are two or thirty, you're still only a little Scorbunny! Thinking you could play ball with a Swampert? Did you know just how much blood I had to clean up from that!? You're lucky I wasn't there, or I might have jus-!"
"Rebecca!"
The Rapidash, Rebecca, jerked her head to one side, revealing the wooden room beyond. A clinic to the look of it, judging by what seemed to be medical cabinets loaded with berries and glass jars.
The Blaziken was leaning against a desk in the room, arms crossed with his head tilted to one side. A single brow was raised, "I think he's got the point."
Sighing, Rebecca turned back to face him. "Just don't go running off out there too soon, I don't need to be collecting bits of you out of a fissure."
With an irritated flick of her mane, she marched away and through another door way.
Sam let out a puff of air, unclenching his little paws. "Geez… talk about bedside manners."
The fire bird had watched the horse leave, but his head now swivelled back towards him. "She's just stressed." He explained, narrowing his cool eyes. "Rebecca didn't even want to be a nurse, but the last one went off to the mainland."
Tilting his own head, Sam could only frown. "Why do it then?"
"Because no one is as good as her with healing moves… as she did volunteer."
"Oh… okay… that kinda makes sense..."
"She isn't trying to punish you if that's what you are worried about. In fact she's more worried than angry." The Blaziken pushed himself off the table, towering over the Scorbunny. "How are you feeling?"
Sam rubbed the back of his head, still trying to feel for a scar or a mark… but there was nothing. "Better than new… I guess?"
The bigger fire type approached, arms still crossed, "I didn't catch your name."
He responded instantly, "Sam."
"Rex." The Blaziken introduced himself, returning a nod, "Alright Sam, what were you doing out in the middle of Little Forest with a team of criminals?"
"Whoa hey!" Sam barked with a flinch, "I had nothing to do with those guys! That Swampert was about to kill me! Just like he did with…"
Eyes widening, he scrambled back up to his feet even as his head started to spin from the movement. "What about the other guys! Those they attacked, you can use that Heal Pulse thingy and-"
"They're gone." Rex interrupted him, his tone chilling. "They were long dead before we got there."
"B-But…"
He couldn't say another word though. He saw them lying there with all that blood and broken bone. He doubted anyone was going to come back from that, no matter what they were. He plopped back down onto the bed, hands squeezing together. "I don't know who everyone was there… one minute I was just walking through the woods the next…" Sighing, he shook his head. "Look, I'm not a murderer I just… walked into it all."
"You saw the bandits kill those Pokémon?"
"No… I arrived too late. I just thought they were guys arguing before I saw…" he clamped his mouth shut, flicking his gaze away.
Rex didn't reply at first, but he could see a grey hand reach over and lean into the bed's cover. "You're safe now. Understand?"
Hesitating, Sam slowly nodded before finally fixing his gaze back on the Blaziken, the chill in his eyes now gone. "But what were you doing out there anyway? You aren't on any records."
"Oh, in the woods? I was-"
He stopped himself short, feeling his buckteeth dig into his lip. What could he say? He doubted the 'I got lost and hungover' story would hold. Ugh! What can I say? That I just woke up in the middle of a forest thinking I was human and yet I've been turned into a Scorbunny? He'll think I'm mad!
Sam could sense his foot tapping away, Come on mate think… there has to be something I can say…
"I-I…"
"Go on."
The Scorbunny's mouth hung ajar, a word on the tip of his tongue… before he finally closed it and shook his head. "I don't remember."
"Hmm?" Rex tilted his head over, beak clicking. "You remember nothing?"
"Yeah… I just found myself wondering those woods… maybe I got hit on the back of the head or got affected by some move…"
"Like a Confuse Ray?"
"Yeah… I don't know. Could be?" shaking his head, Sam rose back upto his feet. "Maybe it'll come back to me, but all I've been drawing are blanks."
Come on Come on… don't try and dig deeper… please…
Rex looked down on him, a claw on one hand scratching just underneath his chin, as if processing what information Sam could give.
Then, at last, he nodded. "Fair enough. I believe you. Just make sure you keep a low profile, understood?"
"Y-Yes sir." Sam replied, relaxing a touch.
"Stretch your legs for a moment, then when you're ready come on outside. I'll show you around town.". With that, Rex pulled away from the bed and turned to depart. "W-Wait!" Sam exclaimed, reaching after him, catching the Blaziken's attention. "Thanks… for helping me back there."
The bigger Mon glanced back, "Just doing a day's work, but your welcome. I'll just be outside."
He watched him walk on out, and slumped back onto the bed, gazing up at the ceiling. It wasn't an ideal story, just flat out saying he didn't know how he got to that Forest, but it wasn't exactly a lie either. No point in confusing people with more human… err… stuff…
Sam rubbed the back of his head, trying to still work out where the original wound was from the tree. Nothing. That Healing Pulse must have just been that good.
I'm going to have to tell someone eventually. Sam mused, slowly lowering himself to the ground. But let's get a lay of the land first. I know I'm in… what, some kind of Pokémon world? The more I know about the place, the better. And hey, maybe I can learn something about myself in the meantime.
Brushing himself down, the former human took in a breath, steadied himself… and strolled out of the room.
Well… here goes nothing.
…
Where the hell's the exit?
Well, I figured I'd opt for something shorter but this got longer than I expected. If anyone would like to give any feedback on the story so far, let me know!
Alright, as a bonus update before I go ahead with posting Chapter VI, I might as well add an extra disclaimer on what will be coming up down the line:
There is going to be alot of darker themes present in this. There has already been a small taster, but there is going to be gore and violence involved. Plus some crude humor, character deaths and other dark themes such as mental health and the like. Yes, there is going to be the snarky humor here and there with heartwarming moments, but don't expect it to be like that all the time. If it is rated, it would at the very least be Teen.
Secondly, there are going to be spoilers for the entire Mystery Dungeon series, alongside nods to the Generation VII and VIII games. If you want to avoid any spoilers on those, now would be the time to turn back. And that includes cameos. There might be nods to other generations, but they won't be as promient.
Pokemon will be named characters in this, rather than just known by their species name, and whilst I'm still working on the formatting, the individual chapters will get compiled into different 'books' or episodes that can be read in one chunk. I'm still working out how best to proceed with that.
So without further ado, Chapter VI is coming up now.
It only took one embarrassing minute to find his way through the building to the front door, and with another nervous breath, he pushed his way through the door and outside.
Wincing, he blinked as he let his eyes adjust to the bright light of the sun. But this time, they had an easier time adjusting to it and with a paw above his eyes, his vision recovered.
"Holy…"
The town that was laid out before him wasn't something Sam had expected. He had stepped out of a wooden cabin into what almost looked more like a forest woodland camp than a town. The trees that surrounded him were massive, easily towering dozens if not more than a hundred feet in height, with some often being so wide at the bottom as to cover a dozen metres across. Stone paths cut across the ground in front of him, connecting to several differently sized cabins, also made from logs and planks that were secured into place. Some of those were reinforced with cobblestone that matched up with the stone paths that ran in between each of the buildings before congregating into a larger square at the centre of it all. Or rather, a pair of squares, given that there was a river flowing through it all. Several smaller buildings that Sam could only guess were shops were spread out around the square, with two wooden bridges, on being larger than the other to the point it was fitted with a circular platform, connected the two halves together.
On the far side of that though, standing beside a collection of waterfalls that fed the river was the most colossal tree he had ever seen. Forget feet, it was easily over one hundred metres tall, with branches so thick in places they made the cabins look small. Even from here, he can tell it has actually been hollowed out, with a large entrance built in at the bottom and what appeared to be windows and openings scattered across it's surface. Pokémon of all shapes and sizes moved from cabin to cabin, chatting away with each other or cutting through the water of the river. A few flew above his head, drifting from place to place across the park.
He couldn't resist letting out a gigantic grin, "…holy crap!"
"Ahem… language."
He stiffened up, head looking down to find the Blaziken Rex just a couple of feet away from him. "Y-Yep, sorry. My bad."
Rex let out an amused huff, his beak twitching a little bit. "Relax. There isn't any grammar police here."
"I-I… erm…"
Rolling his eyes, Rex turned and started making his way down the path, and Sam quickly scrambled to follow him. "Well Sam, welcome to Robinswood."
"Robinswood?" Sam mused, staring up at the trees, "Pretty nice name."
"You can thank the Fletchlings and Rookidees for that one."
"Oh… the robin guys? That makes sense."
Mentally, he kicked himself, Okay, come on. Why the hell do I recognise all these Pokémon and… trainers of all things… whatever they are… and yet can't remember my life? This su-
He forced the thoughts out of his head as Rex nodded. "Yes, the bird Pokémon that lived here were a massive help in setting up the town, especially as people started moving into the Sea of Wonders."
"Sea of Wonders?"
Rex cast a glance down at him, "You really got one hell of a knock on the head didn't you?"
Ears twitching, Sam could only sheepishly rub the back of his head, "Yeah… must have done."
"Well, the Sea of Wonders includes a collection of islands between all the major continents of the world." He glanced again at him again, as if trying to scan his face. "Air, Grass, Mist, Water and Sand Continents."
"Right. So everyone started having a closer look right?"
"Correct. The different authorities on each continent decided to settle the isles some years ago, especially as new islands started emerging from the water. The plan was initially for the continents to establish joint settlements, with Robinswood at the centre but…" Rex sighed sadly, "That plan fell through."
"Why would that happen though?" Sam questioned, "Unless there was somekind of disagreement?"
"That… is a very long story."
Straightening up, the Blaziken guided him throughout the square as they cut through it, pointing out the different stores. Such as the Kecleon shop (which for some reason sounded familiar to the Scorbunny), the Durandolon Bank… all facilities that would have allowed a town such as this to function. A few Pokémon glanced their way, and shouted out greetings mainly to Rex, although a few waved over at Sam himself. The best he could do was merely wave back with a little smile, although he could feel the fur rise on the back of his neck… almost as if someone was watching with his back turned.
They soon found themselves at the bottom of the massive tree that dominated the town, a few Pokémon were strolling in and out… often in groups, Sam noticed. Many of them carried satchels on their person, and many more also sported what appeared to be an armband or scarf, all of them marked with some kind of clear symbol. He glanced back up at the Blaziken as he stopped short of the entrance… and noticed a similar band around his own arm. A black one with a clear red and yellow symbol that looked painfully abstract, and yet… he couldn't help but think it looked like a feather. "This tree has got a few facilities in it. Spinda's Bar is at the bottom, and at the top you have the TalonKnight Post Office just next to the Observatory. No Pelippier Post Office though I'm afraid."
Something clicked at the back of the Scorbunny's mind at the mention of the post office. A memory? Or something else? Whatever it was, Sam felt like he had heard of it before… what was it about? He looked up at the Blaziken. "I think I recall something about Pelipper being Post… birds or something. Why didn't they set up shop here?"
Rex scratched his chin, "Well, the Talonflame's and Coviknights had already set up a post service before we ever showed up. I think the Pokémon who ran the Pelipper post office decided they didn't fancy the competition and just focused their efforts on the mainland. Let the folks here do their own thing."
"So… economics are to blame then?"
"Yes. Pretty much." The avian Pokémon placed his hands on his hips, gazing back up the tree. "Most of the floors though are reserved for the Guild."
"Guild? What, like mercenaries or miners?"
That got a chuckle out of the Blaziken as he shook his head, "No. Exploration Teams. You really did get hit on the head, or that Confusion Ray was particularly potent." He raised a hand upto the tree, "The Exploration Teams are groups of Pokémon that often do a few different jobs, some obviously go out exploring, trying to learn what they can about the world and bring back something to help the towns. Others perform rescue missions, rescuing Pokémon that end up getting themselves in danger, and some deal with bringing criminals to justice, like the ones you encountered back in Little Forest."
Sam looked back towards the black armband, "I'm guessing… you're part of one of these teams?"
"I'm not in a team anymore. I'm the local guildmaster."
The Scorbunny stiffened again, sensing his ears go erect. "Guildmaster- err… I must have wasted your time-"
"Nonsense." Rex replied, "Like I said, it's part of the job. Certainly beats office work all the time."
He sighed softly again, eyes closing. "Although, rescues and bounty hunting has been on the rise as of late…"
Sam flicked an ear at that. "I mean… if this is some newly colonised place, I suppose bandits showing up isn't farfetched."
"You aren't wrong. And yet…" Sam's eyes flicked down, seeing one of the Blaziken's hands clench. "There's the natural disasters."
Disasters… the Swampert mentioned them…
Brows drawing closer together, Sam loosed up and looked back up at the Guildmaster. "Rex… are these-"
An almighty crash rang out from the tree, the Scorbunny's heart nearly leaping out of his chest. "What the hell!?"
The Blaziken's eyes had snapped open, and he was already marching towards the entrance of the tree. A few Pokémon also cast a sharp glance towards the entrance as Sam scrambled to keep up. A purple shape dashed out of the tree and slid against the bark, panting whilst their crystal eyes dimmed. "H-Hey boss! That big guy you brought in to the cage? He's woken up and he's well-"
Another crash rang out, and Sam could almost feel the ground quake from the impact. "-kinda pissed off." The Sableye finished, wiping their forehead with one hand. "He's trying to break the cell door down." Rex rolled his eyes, already clicking his fists together. "Of course he is. I suppose I'm going to have to try and talk some sense into him again."
Sam almost let out a little huff, tasting the flicker of sarcasm in the guildmaster's voice. "Hey, maybe I can help!"
Rex spun back round on him, "After what happened last time? You'll just annoy him some more. I can handle this myself. I'll get someone too…" his head swivelled round, looking amongst the teams of Pokémon surrounding the entrance. "Jack?"
A Butterfree floated out from the gathering crowd, a green scarf wrapped round his neck. "What do you need?" he asked with an almost happy chirp in his voice.
"Can you help Sam get settled in whilst I deal with Greg?"
The bug bobbled up and down with a flutter of his wings, "You can count on me guildmaster!" he exclaimed, bring himself to hover next to the Scorbunny.
Sam deflated at the order, a part of him desperate to get down there and give that big bastard the middle finger… not that he actually had a middle finger as such anymore… but then a very subtle ache worked it's way through his ribs… and that was frankly the only reminder he needed. He returned a very faint nod, and with Rex returning a much stronger one back, jogged inside.
Jack led him out of the crowd and back into the square, making sure to hover next to Sam. "You're the new guy who just got rescued right?"
"Yeah, that's me." Sam said with a faint groan, "Though more like I got my backside kicked. You're an explorer too?"
"Oh yeah, been at it for a few years now." Jack swung himself in front of Sam as another bang rang out behind him. "Hey, don't worry about getting rescued. It happens to the best of us. Hell, it took me getting rescued to get into doing all this."
Raising a brow up, Sam focused his attention back onto the Butterfree, rubbing his hands together in interest. "Really? I doubt you did as bad as me. I could barely do anything."
Jack floated out of the way, and the two continued across the square and onto one of the paths out, "If it's any consolation, I ended up falling into a fissure and spent the entire time cowering in a corner crying my eyes out!"
Sam stopped for just a moment to process that, "Okay… now that can't be the whole story."
With a little whistle, Jack bobbed about against as the rabbit Pokémon got walking again. "Oh, you bet! I was just a Caterpie back then, and got rescued by these two new guys." His eyes twinkled a little bit as he said that, "They were… so cool…"
Sam let out a weak, but genuine laugh. "I can kinda relate then." He said, as they made their way into the trees. "Those explorer guys do seem kinda badass."
ALWAYS AUDACITY
CHAPTER VII – HAPPY FROG, ANGRY RABBIT
Jack led the way down the woodland track, taking the time to explain that whilst most Pokémon live in the square, others lived a little bit further out, including some of the Exploration Teams. Whilst there was still plenty to do for the teams back out on the Continents, as it turns out, many were pretty eager to get access to the Sea of Wonders and it's newly rising islands, and the same occurred with Pokémon heading out to start a new life. As such, once the rush hit, Robinswood simply wasn't ready to take up the demand. Some obviously went off to form up other settlements, Jack would explain, others thought wanted to remain in Robinswood, and set up shop in smaller cabins and barracks further out from the centre.
The barracks that Jack led Sam too was the first one they came across, and was also the most well developed. It was made of the same wooden logs that defined the structures back in the square, yet at the same time was reinforced with a layer of cobble stone around it's base and came complete with plenty of windows and doors. "This place was supposed to be like a second inn or café." Jack said as he floated inside, "But then the demand crept in and several of teams decided to stay rather than move into the Guild Tree."
"I'm not that surprised." Sam mused, glancing around the front room. Homemade tables, sofas and cushions were all scattered around the space, both on the ground floor and on a smaller upper floor connected via stairs. What should have originally been the counter with all of it's facilities now separated that part of the room with a kitchen of all things. A rather fruity aroma drifted up the Scorbunny's nose, and he resisted the urge to sigh at pleasant smell. "Actually looks… kinda homey."
"Well you do often have to share rooms and the corridors can be a bit of a squeeze when someone big comes through, but it works. I would let you crash in my room but…" Jack looked away, the Butterfree somehow looking… embarrassed. "It's occupied."
"Eh, don't worry about it. I'll find something." The Scorbunny put his hands on his hips, letting a little smile form, "I don't want to have to squeeze in with your team if I'll just get in the way." He added cheerfully.
The Butterfree shook his head, "Oh, it's not my Team. They're up in the Tree."
Now the smile transformed into a frown, "Then what are you-"
"Papa!"
Sam's head swivelled round to spot a little white Pokémon that looked like some kind of crystalline bug slide off one of the cushions, quickly scurrying over towards them. Jack's eyes lit up as he floated down in front of the Snom. "Hey kiddo! How was your day at school?"
A fiery warmth surged through the Scorbunny's body, his lips pulling back into a gigantic grin of the sight of the little kid and his dad. Aww… okay, Jack's just got a lot cooler! Look at the little guy!
"Went great pa!" the Snom exclaimed, almost seeming to bounce in delight. "I managed to puff out some Snow today!"
"You did? That's so cool Kyle, well done!"
Kyle giggled, before his little eyes drifted towards Sam. "Pa, who's that?"
"Oh, that's Sam. He's just arrived today."
Sam bent over and flashed a friendly wave, "Hey there little guy."
The little bug's eyes twinkled, "A fire rabbit… cool…"
One rabbit ear dipped a little bit. And… that word seems to be a family trait…
"Can you do a fireball!?" Kyle asked excitedly, bobbing up and down in eagerness.
"Err… I don't think that's a good idea." Sam replied sheepishly, "Being in a cabin and all."
Eh… honestly I'm not sure if I can actually do another Ember yet… I think…
Kyle deflated a little bit at that, before Jack touched down right next to him, "Don't worry buddy, Sam can probably do it another time for you."
"Okay!", the crystals brightening back up. "I also found something really cool! Come and see papa!"
"Cool! Let's have a look at it." Jack turned back towards Sam, "Hey, you don't mind hanging on-"
"Oh, it's fine." Sam replied warmly with a flick of his wrist, "I can wait."
With a buzz of thanks, Jack and Kyle disappeared off deeper into the cabin, leaving Sam on his own save for the few other Pokémon. The Scorbunny plopped himself down on one of the cushions, sinking into it. So… this whole world is full of Pokémon. Obviously. He tapped his fingers on the fabric. Question is… how are humans supposed to fit in? I mean, that was like my first thought. I'm human. But, well, look at me! He stared at the white paw doing the tapping, I'm a Scorbunny… but how do I know that? And what's with these disasters and the like? I mean, what's going on with all the politics and that? Sounds like a lot of stuff is going on right now.
Grr… maybe I did get hit by a Confuse Ray or something.
That was when he heard the shouting, his red tipped ears already perking up. Jeez… I've gotta get used to these ears. Pushing himself up, Sam relaxed a bit when he realised the voices were coming from a different corridor than the one Jack and Kyle had used… but they were getting louder.
"I told you countless times, if you try and do that, you're going to get yourselves killed!"
"We don't have to listen to you, this works for us!"
Oh bugger…
Sam approached the corridor, already sensing his body tense up as he gazed down it.
A gathering of small Pokémon congregated within the wooden cut through. And by small, he really did mean Pokémon that were about his size. He could recognise a few species in the ground, but they all seemed gathered around two Pokémon who were staring each other down. A Bulbasaur on one side, their teeth bared and a pair of vines raised from the bulb on it's back.
However, most of the Pokémon's eyes were fixed on a single Buneary. One paw rested on their hip as they stared down the Bulbasaur with narrowed eyes, and one ear was coiled in tight, almost twitching to burst free. "You're bringing all the wrong equipment, you think Oran Berries alone will keep you going?!" they snapped, speaking with an feminine voice, albeit one that belonged to a young adult than a kid. "They won't, they don't solve all your problems!"
The Bulbasaur's eyes flashed red, "We've got healing moves for our team, something you can't comprehend!"
The Buneary's ear twitched even more, as she took a step forward. "Yeah, I know you can heal yourselves and remove paralysis blah blah!" She snapped an arm up in disgust, "But you can only use a move so many times! You don't even have Ethers! What happens then!?"
"Eh, we won't get to that point!"
"Grr! This is the kind of cocky shit that will get you killed!"
The curse made Sam stiffen up a little bit, but he could only roll his eyes at the mess in front of him. Ah… your typical 'my style is better than your style' argument. He leaned against the wall, figuring he could watch the scene unfold from a distance. To be honest though, I'm kinda agreeing with Bun-Bun here. Can't get too cocky.
He shivered at the memory of that Swampert towering over him, and shoved it aside. Although I have no idea what an Ether is.
Now the Bulbasaur was smirking back at the rabbit Pokémon, the vines pulling back a touch? "Oh really? Then why aren't you telling this to your own team? Oh wait, you haven't got one, because you spend all day just being some cursed freak!"
The Buneary leapt forward fast enough for Sam to nearly jump, the grass-types eyes widening as it tried to pull itself back. But the rabbit was too fast as her paws grabbed hold of the still exposed vines.
Sharply tugging them down and back, she yanked the reptile towards her, the rabbit's eyes burning as the Bulbasaur cried out with a yelp of pain. "What did you just call me you little punk!?" she snapped, pulling on the vines even harder.
Okay, I change my mind, to hell with this!
Sam shoved himself off the wall and got running down the corridor. The Buneary leaned in closer to the green Mon, the latter's eyes squeezed shut. "Go on." She hissed, "You can say it again."
"Hey!" Sam barked, skidding to a halt next to them and grabbing onto other rabbit's arm, "How about-"
His mouth slammed shut as the ear-turned-brick slammed into his face.
Stumbling back, Sam landed onto his back with an almighty thud. "What th-!?" he cursed, rolling his jaw back into place. His entire face throbbed as he struggled to push himself back up. But now the Buneary was staring him down, mouth twisted into a surprisingly vicious snarl. She now only had one paw wrapped the grass-type's vines, the other pointed at him. "Stay out of this, I'm trying to teach this prick a lesson!"
"Hel- a lesson!" Sam snapped, pointing a finger at the Bulbasaur, "You're hurting him! I think he's got the point!"
The Bulbasaur rapidly nodded, eyes still clamped shut as the Buneary's gaze flicked between the two of them. "People get hurt all the time! Maybe this wi-"
She cried out as the bubbles slammed into her back, her grip on the vines snapping as she shoved away.
Too bad she now flew straight into Sam. He grunted once more he was whacked back onto his back, growling as the Buneary shook her head, her eyes now locking onto him. "Get off me!"
He just realised he had her by the shoulders, and she had him by the arms. Sam flashed his buckteeth, "Get off me first!".
Rolling back, he managed to slip his legs underneath and booted the Buneary in the best. Another yelp rang out as her paws lost their grip and she was flung away. Sam, a bit faster now, stumbled back to his feet. The other rabbit was also back up, tensioning up as both ears reeled themselves in. "Alright then, you want a fight!? I'll-"
"Enough!"
Pushing their way out of the crowd of small Pokémon was a little blue frog with what almost seemed like a mane of white bubbles. Yellow eyes locked onto the Buneary. "Alice. I think you've outstayed your welcome here." He coldly said.
The rabbit crossed her arms, "Aidan, here to throw in a bit of Poke here and there, so you can worm your way deeper to turn these guys into losers huh?"
The Froakie didn't even react, "They don't want you screwing them over and no one wants you here. Move on."
Alice took one step forward, only for the entire group of Pokémon to take one step back towards her. The Froakie, the Bulbasaur… literally everyone in that group was now staring the Buneary down.
Sam could see her quiver, the rage threatening to burst free… but something seemed to hold it back. Still staring them down, Alice took one step back. "Grr… fine. But don't say I didn't warn you. And Adian, I know you are just some slimy toad. I'm watching you."
"Get lost Alice." Aidan grunted, little white digits clenching.
Turning on her foot, Alice stomped away from the group. Sam flinched as she shoved him aside, his own ears erect. "What the hell is your problem?" he hissed.
The Buneary stopped, not even bothering to glance back as one ear relaxed. "I'm just trying to keep these idiots alive. You want to help them to an early grave? Be my guest."
And with that, she marched out of the corridor and out of sight.
"Damn Adian… thanks! I thought she was going to rip my bulb off!"
Still frowning, Sam turned back to find everyone now gathering around the Froakie, his face now completely transformed to have a big goofy grin. "Well, I couldn't let that happen huh? I'd still take a few extra supplies on hand, just in case."
"Yeah… well, I suppose we can cough up a little more Poke." The Bulbasaur seemed to deflate for a moment before perking back up again, "Anything I can do? Seriously after that, I feel like I owe you something."
The Froakie raised on hand up to his chin, his eyes narrowing in thought. "Hmm… you managed to get your hands on some rare gummis right?"
"Err…" the Bulbasaur blinked, "Kinda? I was kinda saving them for-"
"No fear! Save some for yourself!" Aidan exclaimed, patting the side of the Bulbasaur, "But how about we all put some of the others on the house for all of us, eh?"
Immediately the other Pokémon jumped to attention, their eyes widening as they cheered. The Bulbasaur hesitated for a moment, before finally letting out a hoarse laugh of their own. "Ha, I suppose a few gummis can't hurt. Come on folks!"
Sam couldn't help but let out a little grin as the cheering Pokémon made their way back further into the building, following up behind the smiling Bulbasaur. Well, what do you know. A few little words and all is right with the world again.
"Hey, not bad there."
He swivelled back round to find Aidan looking at him, a little smile on his face. "Good work on distracting Alice, I was having a hard time getting through everyone. You know, cos of the frogs legs?" He stuck one 'hand' out, "Name's Aidan. I think you're the new Scorbunny right?"
A little bit embarrassed, Sam shook the hand, "Yeah, it's Sam. How did you-"
"Oh, a few people were talking about you the other night. Especially the butterfly dude, he couldn't shut up about it."
"Jack?"
"Yep."
The Froakie rubbed his hands together, "So, you all settled in?"
"Not quite… I was just waiting on Jack to get back-"
"Oh, looking after that little squirt of his? Good kid that one." The Froakie's eyes widened, "Hey, the last guy who was in my room just moved out. You can crash with me if you want."
Sam tilted his head with a frown, "You're sure? I mean, I just turned up out of nowhere."
Aidan merely flashed a grin back, "Eh, we get people like that all time. If the Guildmaster let you walk, I think you're fine."
"Well… sure thing then." The Scorbunny replied with a little flicker of a grin. "What about Jack though."
"Oh, he'll track us down. He knows everyone in here anyway. Come on, I'll show you way!" Aidan hopped past and down the corridor, and once more Sam was scurrying to follow in behind him.
Sorry this took so long, again, I was aiming for a shorter chapter but as it turns out this one soon got longer than I was planning on!
It's more a reference to a gameplay mechanic. Each Pokemon move can be used a certain number of times before it can't be used anymore and the PP has to be replenished.
Here, using too many moves can burn a Mon out, so Ether helps them keep using moves on longer missions. Just basically helps out for the long term.
Just as a heads up, I am working on Chapter VIII, but I have to deal with some flight stuff so I can get back home to the UK (and more wifi), so the next chaper might be running a bit late.
Aidan's room was pretty compact, only being about three square metres across. Luckily, it was more than big enough to fit the two fairly small Pokémon with room to spare. There wasn't much in it, just a pair of beds mounted low down on opposite sides of the room with a shelf that built in above them along with a draw underneath. A trio of cushions had been tossed into the far corner, alongside a duo of wooden lockers were built into the wall. A single window, mounted directly above them, offered a view of the outside world.
The Froakie pulled himself onto one of the beds, "Sorry if it's not much to look at, but I kinda wanted a more private room."
"Eh, it's fine." Sam replied, sitting down on the remaining bed. "Still comfy enough for me."
Aidan chuckled at that, "Sorry."
"About what?" Sam replied with a frown.
The blue frog looked away for a moment, eyes flicking back. "Well, I used to live on the Sand Continent… my family's kinda rich. I still kinda forget not everyone has got a room that's six times the size of this all to themselves."
Rich kid huh?
Sam sat up a little bit more, "Well, I can see why someone would be jealous, but we don't really control where we grow up. You seem kind enough so why should it matter?"
"Some people can… you know… get kinda jealous." Aidan replied, turning back towards him. "The Sand Continent is pretty try… you know, being in the name and all. So my family made a living by getting all sorts of reservoirs and channels filled up with water. Us water types are pretty good at that, and we need the water more than most so… yeah, they made a lot of Poke from that."
"Nothing wrong with doing hard work and helping people in the process." Sam said.
Aidan flashed a little grin, "Thanks. So where are you from?"
"I'm from-" Sam fell silent, feeling his ears dip as the location didn't come forward in his mind. "Actually… I don't really know." He said with a shrug, "Kinda lost my memory of it."
"Huh… I can understand that."
"Ah, there you are!"
The Butterfree Jack was now floating in the doorway, "I wondered where you got off to." His head drifted towards the frog, "Hi Aidan, you've offered a space for Sam here?"
"Yep, figured he needed a place to crash." Aidan replied with a wink.
"If you don't mind." Sam added, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly. "I just caught something that needed dealing with and…"
"Oh don't fret about it!" Jack buzzed happily with a wave of his little arm. "Aidan was one of the guys I had in mind. I'll need to head back out to the Tree now I've got Kyle sorted with his mom, so I'll let Rex know you are settled in. Just be ready in case you need to give any more details on those bandits?"
Sam nodded, "Yeah, sure thing."
With a bob of his head, Jack flew on back out and closed the door behind him. Aidan meanwhile narrowed his eyes, the fingers tapping the fabric of his bed. Sam pulled a frown, "What's up?"
"Huh?" he said, jerking up. "Oh, I was just thinking about those bandits? One of them was a Swampert right?"
"Yeah? What about it?" Sam questioned, a little bit defensive as one hand clenched. Aidan merely puffed out a little bit of air, "Just glad that guy got caught. Last I heard he was stealing a lot of supplies of the caravans."
The Scorbunny relaxed, "Well… I just hope the bastard stays locked up." He growled, leaning back onto his own bed. "So, what brings you all the way out here then Aidan? Wanted to be the rebellious one?"
A quiet laugh rang out from across the room, "Heh, that's part of it! But I also wanted to get onto the trials over here."
Sam cast a confused look over at him, and the Froakie could only wince. "Ah, yeah. Trials for the new Exploration Teams. Figured I might as well take advantage of the opportunities before they dry up. Years ago near enough anyone could form a Team, but now prospective teams have to actually go through tests for a Guild, or selected by a Society. It's mainly making sure everyone is the best of the best."
Sam smiled, Exploration Teams, huh? Well, if there are bunch of new islands showing up, no wonder people want to jump on that. "Definitely can't blame you, if it's all as hyped up to be."
"Oh, it is." Aidan replied, "It ain't easy, and the early teams had to go through hell and back."
"Disasters and all that." Sam said almost lazily.
"Err… yeah, the first round of disasters."
Huh? Sam sat back up, frowning. "This stuff… has happened before…"
"Yeah. There was a bunch of natural disasters over fifteen years ago, similar to what is happening now apparently. But other stuff happened before and after that aswell. The last big crisis was around… six years ago now?"
The Scorbunny felt a shiver run down his spine, "So… these disasters has happened over the last 16 years?"
"A bit longer than that actually but yeah, although it's not just disasters. Last time round the world pretty much nearly died."
"H-How…"
"The planet nearly got thrown into the sun." Aidan said without a shred of hesitation. "Yeah, that was pretty shitty. I mean, friends getting turned to stone? Not exactly my fondest mem-h-hey, are you okay?"
Sam blinked, "H-Huh?"
"You're… shaking quite a bit."
Sam looked down to find his arms were shivering uncontrollably, and even his feet were beginning to twitch. "S-Sorry." He replied, taking in a deep gasp of breath. "I… I just didn't think things were this bad."
Aidan leaned forward a little bit, eyes flicking across the Scorbunny's body… only to spring back up with a big grin on his face, "Hey, don't worry about it. These disasters aren't as bad as those fifteen years ago, and they have just been on and off for the last year. Sure, they can be pretty nasty, but it's not the worse we've had to deal with."
Letting out a shaky sigh, the former human forced his limbs to still. A part of him wanted to trust Aidan, take his word as gospel. But seeing Rex's… tired remark about them… he was wary to write them off.
"By the way." Aidan started again, "Do you have any plans yourself? I mean, even with amnesia you've got to be have some ideas in mind."
"Honestly?" Sam said, "I'm not sure. I don't even know how I got here." He rubbed his eyes, trying to ponder what he could do.
"You know… there is a rule saying that all Pokémon have to be part of a team if they want to join a Guild. They can't work alone." Aidan explained, leaning forward a little bit. "I was going to try and join up with another team but… if you want, we can, you know… team up."
Sam flicked an ear to one side, nibbling on his lip. Wait… is Aidan asking me to join him? On an exploration team?
"I mean, you jumped in when Alice was being an ass. And you seem like you can hold your own. I mean, you survived against that Swampert. Not many unevolved Pokémon never mind fire-types could do that. With us working together, hell, maybe we can go up against the likes of ACT or Charm or something. And help a few people out on the way too." Flashing another smile, Aidan extended a hand out.
Sam didn't move, his mind already spinning. This is kinda out of the blue isn't it?!I mean, he's literally just recruiting me to join a team on the spot!Exploring is one thing but dealing with crooks… The Scorbunny stiffened, feeling a shudder run across his body again. It's gonna be dangerous, I barely managed to survive out there last time…
The hand pulled back, "Well… you… did get hurt out there. Sorry, I shouldn't had asked so so-"
"Sure."
The Froakie blinked, tongue hanging in the air almost comically as the word died. "W-What?"
Sam flicked an ear as he rubbed his hands together. "Sure, why not." He said warmly, "If I don't chances are I'll end up stuck… I don't know, working a shop or something. That'd be boring as hell!"
That and… well… I've got a feeling that if I join an Exploration Team, I might get a better idea of what happened to me. Might jog my memory I guess."
"Well, great!" Aidan cheered, "But, are you sure? No guarantee we can get on the team roster."
"Just gotta give it our best shot then." Sam replied, sticking out his hand, "So, give it a shot?"
Aidan winked, "You've gotcha 'self a deal!" he said, happily slapping the hand hard enough to send a throb running up his arm. "No need to worry about naming the team yet, let's just get a headstart first."
"Sounds good." Sam nodded, "Might as well focus on getting that-"
His words teetered off as the realisation slammed into his gut. Yeah… the moves… His face must have twisted too, given the Froakie's grimace. "Dude… you okay? You're not having second thoughts now right?"
Sam shook his head, "Oh- nope, not that… Aidan… this is kinda embarrassing but… can you… err… teach me something?"
Right, sorry for the delay. For once this was actually intended to be a longer chapter, but due to the delay in actually getting in done due to handling flying back to the UK, I've decided to split this chapter in two, so it's gonna be a little bit quieter this time round. Should get a little bit more fun in Chapter IX.
ALWAYS AUDACITY
CHAPTER IX – BY THE WAY, HOW DO I FIREBALL?
The office had been hollowed out at the top of the Guild section of the Tree more recently than most, but it had been given a much more careful touch than most. It was actually an two tier room with a short set of stone stairs connecting the two together. All the walls were lined with a combination of cabin logs running horizontally and metal support beams running vertically. The lower floor was lined with a selection of cabinets containing what appeared to be a few odds and trinkets. A few rocks and crystals, a miniature telescope, goblets, a few images etched onto canvas… even a photograph of all things. At the centre of that level was a pair of couches facing each other with a table in between, both made of a fairly regular canvas. The upper level was much the same, only the cabinets had been replaced by bookshelves and the sofas replaced with one large wooden desk and chairs, and further past them, a large window overlooking Robinswood from above.
Rex sighed as he leaned back into the high backed chair, rubbing his fist carefully. "I'm getting too old for this…" he uttered, keeping his eyes shut. "Esper, I know you are there."
One side of the upper tier was partly hidden in shadow by a set of curtains, and with a rustle of canvas, a Meowstic emerged in front of the Blaziken. It's mostly white fur contrasted with the red and yellow eyes she possessed. She let out a slight little grin, swiping back a tuff of blue fur on her head. "Sorry, I just figured I'd get here early."
Rex let out an amused huff, "I know Authur was singing his praises about you, but you never cease to surprise me."
Esper flashed a little wink as she sat down, "Well, tricking a brainwashed mastermind into thinking I had betrayed my actual friends as a kid during an world ending event did have it's perks."
"You're still a teenager." Rex pointed out.
"I'm eighteen." She replied, rolling her eyes. "Besides, I found pulling that kind of neat." She gazed down at the Blaziken rubbing his wrist. On cue, Rex ceased. "I'm fine, I only had to punch Greg once to get him to calm down. He's tenacious that Swampert, I'll give him that." He leaned onto the desk, "I'm guessing you have kept an eye on our new guest?"
"Always. One way or another."
"And what do you think?"
"The amnesia sounds familiar… but it's not the first time we've had a Pokémon suffer that." She gave a relaxed shrug, "I sensed some confusion but there was nothing malicious. A little bit of wounded pride at worse."
The Guildmaster scratched underneath his beak, "Hmm… it didn't seem like he knew how to use Ember of all things… that might be the source of it."
"Especially with that amnesia." Esper confirmed, "But I don't think we have to worry about him. I've already heard from Jack that Sam is settling in with Aidan."
"The rich kid from Sand? Well, he seems to have a decent head on his shoulders. More than his family at least."
"They're businessfolk, there is always something quiet going on behind the scenes."
"Well, you're not wrong there." Rex lifted himself back up to his feet and stepped up to the window, looking over the town below. "Let's just keep an eye on him, from a distance."
"Jack can keep checking over him, though getting the whole of Team Spirit involved wouldn't be a bad idea."
Rex shook his head, "He's already been through a lot, we'll hold back on that for now. Let him get settled in. He should be fine in the short term anyway."
"Of course." Esper replied with a little purr, "By the way-"
Rex sighed, raising an arm up to stop her, "Let me guess, you pre-empted me on the mail."
Something flopped onto the table behind him, "Sorry." She said with a slight tease in her voice, "Didn't want the old man to tire himself out."
Unable to stop himself, Rex could only let a short, but hearty laugh ring out as he turned and picked up the envelope on the table. "I'm not that old yet Esper." He rolled one shoulder as he began to open the package. "You know, when I took up the Guildmaster post for Robinswood, I thought it would be a nice, quiet job before retiring and looking after the kid."
Esper flicked an ear over, "Not what you were expecting?"
He could only snort in response, "Don't get me wrong, getting to run off on a mission once in a while never gets old. And managing the teams and that behind the scenes? Always a honor. But…" he let loose a moan as he rubbed his head, "The paperwork is ridiculous, as is the politics. And I didn't plan on going out that often. Especially with the resurgence in disasters, I didn't think I would have to deal with that again."
"Well, that's why you took me on remember?" Esper said, pushing herself out of the seat. "Without me, you would be neck deep in stuff before the end of the week."
"You're not wrong on that." Rex chuckled, finally opening the letter and scanning through it's contents. But the humour disappeared from his face, his eyes narrowing as his beak clicked. Esper crossed her arms, her ears twitching just a little bit. "I don't have to be psychic to see something's wrong. What is it?"
Stiffly, Rex handed the letter back over to Esper. As she scanned the document though, her eyes began to widen, red pupils narrowing into finer slits. "No… all that-"
"Why bother sending it otherwise?" Rex said woodenly as the Meowstic scanned it all again. "As a result of this, reorganisation…" she shook her head for a second, scanning the letter a third time. "They... they're actually doing it?"
"Yes." Rex replied with a sigh, eyes shutting. "I didn't think the day would come."
*****
The pebble bounced off the tree with a harmless ping, flying back off into the grass. "Oh come on!" Sam cursed, booting another pebble away. This time, it merely flew off into a bush and out of sight.
"Damn." Aidan uttered, face blushing. "I didn't think you were this bad!"
The Scorbunny groaned, "Thanks for the support."
Sam and Aidan were behind the barracks. Whilst there was a dedicated training round being built elsewhere around Robinswoood, there wasn't exactly anywhere else ideal to get some practice in. Besides, according to Aidan a good few Pokémon just resorted to trying things in their back yards or… well, behind the barrack buildings.
"Maybe you are just overthinking it?" Aidan mused, his bubbly mane hanging down to one side. "It's normally supposed to b-ugh!" Groaning, the Froakie rubbed his head, eyes and lips squeezed tight. Sam's eyes widened, "Hey, mate? A-Are you okay?" he asked, placing one hand on the frog's shoulder.
"I'm fine!" he gasped, shaking his head before steadying himself. "Just a headache." He turned back to Sam, a sheepish smile on his face. "I'm was going to say that normally using powers is some kind of instinct."
Sam could only growl a response. "I-I just-grr!" he clenched one fist tight. "I managed to use an Ember… I think it was an Ember anyway before. All I know, was I kicked a pebble and it caught fire, that was it!"
"Okay okay." Aidan said, motioning with his hands. "We don't need another Alice running around."
"Well, she still ended up flooring me as well!" he snapped before letting out a heavy sigh, "Sorry, but if I can't figure out how to do this kind of stuff, I'll just end up ruining your chances…"
"Eh, don't worry. We'll figure it out. Besides, you could be paired up with Alice or some other loudmouth who will love to scream in your face all day."
Unable to stop it rising up, Sam let out a little chuckle. "Fair point." But then the thought settled in, "Actually… what is Alice's problem anyway? When did she turn into a badass?"
…
"Not that kind of badass, I mean like bad-ass. With a hole on the end."
Sam could tell Aidan wanted to laugh at that, but the chuckle died on his lips. "Honestly? I don't know. I've only heard rumours. Some about how she's cursed."
"Huh." Sam replied, the Scorbunny rubbing the back of his head, "I know there's a move called that, but… I don't think that's how it works."
"It doesn't." Aidan confirmed, "But most I've spoken have said she has always been a bit… outspoken. She's tried to push people around left and right, often breathing down their necks… getting into fights…." He shook his head, "Honestly? She's just a selfish bitch, I don't really see her doing much to actually, you know, help people."
Cursed? Fights? Sam could only tap the back of his head with a single finger, I mean, rumours are just that. Rumours. But even so… eh… probably best to just be careful around her. "Right, well, hopefully she won't try and beat my head in again." He looked down at the small pile of pebbles that he had been using as, for the lack of a better word, ammo. "Although another hit might do a little bit to help."
Aidan frowned, eyes flicking upwards towards the treetops. "Hmm… the Scorbunny family has organs that heat up… can heat things up via friction…" he clicked his fingers, "Maybe we're doing this all wrong. You're trying to will Ember to work, right?"
The Scorbunny nodded back as Aidan hopped back over, "Then how about feeling it?"
Sam could only jerk back, "What?" he questioned, feeling his throat tighten.
"No, seriously, it's a good idea. How did you feel like when you used Ember the first time?"
Shaking his head, Sam nevertheless leaned back and closed his eyes. He tried to look back at that moment, when the Pidgey came diving down towards Rex. "I… I was desperate…" he whispered. "Why?" Aidan questioned softly.
"Rex was about to get attacked from behind… after seeing the bodies… I… I…" His chest immediately clenched, the image of that dead Pikachu flashing across his vision. Eyes snapping open, Sam backed up, his breath quickening. "No no… I can't do this."
"Yes you can!" Aidan urged, a soft hand settling onto his shoulder. "You can do this."
"I can't! I can't keep them out of my head!" Sam snapped, shaking the hand free. "I should have been able to do something more!"
"You were angry?" the Froakie questioned.
"I was! I was scared shitless, I saw that damn Pidgey come back in! I didn't want those bastards to hurt anyone else!" His face burned in a mixture of rage and grief, his feet quivered and his chest began to heat up. "And I didn't want to feel so bloody worthless!" Roaring, he booted another pebble with a flash of light, the stone ignited. Sam could only gasp as the Ember shot across the clearing and struck one of the trees, glowing bark splintering away as the fireball burnt it's way in.
As it faded away, Sam blinked and the smoking dent left in the side of the tree, his heart pumping hard. "How… how did I…"
Aidan chuckled next to him, "Of course. Emotions."
"Huh?"
"Scorbunnies and their evolutions rely on emotions to pump them up, plus a little bit of friction to get things sparked up." The Froakie explained. "What did you feel then?"
Hesitating, Sam closed his eyes, trying to retreat back inwards, "I… I felt warm all over… like something was burning in me…"
"Good." Aidan stated, more assertive now. "Focus on that. Think about something that happened to you, feel that emotion, let it heat you up."
Nodding, Sam focused again, But what memory can I use? I can't just use that anger all the time… maybe I can use… happiness? He nearly shook his head at that, his body stiffening. No… that's a stupid idea… unless…
Taking in a breath, his body relaxed. He rolled the memories through his mind, soaking in the details. Sam recalled those emotions he felt, as it happened. The good and the bad.
And slowly… his face and feet warmed up again, and his chest flared up.
His eyes snapped open, and eying a stone that was lying on it's own, he flicked it up and onto his foot. As it darkened up, he started to kick it. Not away from him, but up in the air in front of him, every little touch from his foot or knee causing a little flicker of flame to flow around it until finally, a tiny little fireball was being juggled between his feet. He smiled as he caught Aidan's mouth dropping in surprise, his chest burning up, as if his very core was on fire. Powering him on. He booted it up once more, but instead of kicking it again, he snapped his hand out and grabbed hold of it. The heat flared up in his fingers, and immediately dissipated. Opening his fingers, all that was left was a charred little stone.
"Okay dude, that was awesome!" Aidan exclaimed, eyes sparkling. "How did you do that? What did you use."
A little voice in the corner of Sam's mind wanted to brag about it, but he held back, and merely pulled a little smile. "It was just…" he let out a soft sigh before looking over to the Froakie. "Just thinking about folks welcoming me here, you included." Feeling his face heat up again, Sam's ears dropped a bit. "That felt… just nice."
Aidan flashed a grin as he clapped the Scorbunny's back. "Either way, good to see you getting to grips with those powers again." He did a mock fist pump, "Looks like we can-"
A deep rumble echoed through the trees, Sam wincing as his ears recoiled from the sound. "The hell!". He grabbed onto his ears and yanked them down, trying to blot out the noise jabbing at his ear drums. Luckily, a couple of seconds later, the rumble faded away. "The town horn…" Aidan said with a hint of realisation, "Not often they sound that, come on, we better get over to the square."
Groaning, Sam released the ears even if was still a faint ringing in them, "What's going on?"
"Just a town meeting." Aidan confirmed happily, "Nothing to worry about!"
…
As it turned out. It was something to worry about.
ALWAYS AUDACITY
CHAPTER X – WHAT AM I DOING HERE?
Robinswood's Square was already rammed by the time Sam and Aidan had got there. Pokémon of all different shapes and sizes were gathered around the foot of the Guild Tree, chattering amongst themselves at what the meeting was being called for. An update? A vote? The question ran through the crowd like wildfire.
"Damn it." Aidan hissed, "We'll never get a good view through all this.".
The little Froakie narrowed his eyes, trying to peer through the mass of people ahead of them. Sam could only feel a sense of surprise at that sea of Pokemon, so thick that he couldn't even see a few metres into the crowd's legs, nevermind the entrance of the tree itself.
He couldn't shake that feeling of being so… small.
I… I think I was taller as a human.
Frowning, he turned towards the frog, "Everyone wasn't kidding on Pokémon flooding in here. Think we can get round?"
"Agh, I doubt we can without taking time." He groaned, tugging at his mane. "That's if we don't get stomped on by accident!"
Stomped on huh? Then we just need some high ground. Sam began to peer deeper into the crowd, trying to not stare at the legs and instead through them.
Now… when I went through with Rex, I thought I saw- he saw the flash of dark wood in the crowd, complete with the crate's reinforcements. Bingo.
Flashing a little grin, he tapped on Aidan's shoulder. "Come on, I've figured out where we can go!".
With Sam leading the way for once, the two worked their way through the crowd, their voices still ringing above and around his head. Once they had actually cleared through the outer wall, he noticed that several of the Pokémon present were not that much bigger or smaller than himself, albeit many more were also a good bit bigger too regardless. That at the very least made it a bit easier for them to navigate their way towards Sam's target. A stack of wooden crates that had been gathering at the centre of the square.
As the Scorbunny grabbed hold of the first crate, his ears jerked back as Aidan quietly coughed behind him, arms crossed. "Yeah… Froakie aren't known for climbing."
Sam could only return a sheepish grin as he shrugged, "Eh… come on, I'll give you a hand."
It took a bit more effort than he thought to help Aidan up the crates. Grunting, he couldn't help but wonder why the hell Aidan couldn't make the climb. Only for the latter to assure him he could, but it wasn't easy over steep surfaces. Even with his arms aching though, it didn't take them long to reach the topmost crates, offering them a clean view of the tree's entrance even if a few Pokémon still blocked the view. Either way, it was better than fighting their way to the front.
"I take it back." Aidan moaned, rubbing one of his legs as he sat down. "I'd rather get trampled."
"Hey, we're up here now." Sam stressed, "Besides, we've got a good view from here."
"I suppose you're right." Aidan replied with a pant, settling down to get a good view of the tree entrance as he rubbed his head again.
Sam looked over at him, his gut tightening into a knot as he reached for the final crate. "Hey… are you ok-"
His hand touched something fluffy, "Oi!"
He recoiled hard enough that he could feel his foot slip off the crates. Gasping, he clamped his second hand down onto the wood. The brown, furred hand jerked away as a familiar rabbit looked down at him, face twisted in disgust. Sam's heart nearly exploded in his chest.
"You…" Alice growled, one coiled ear already twitching. "What do y-"
"Wait wait!" Sam yelped, replanting his feet with a crack and snapping his paws up in surrender. "Alice, don't punch my lights out!"
The Buneary seemed to stiffen, but the ear stopped twitching. In stark comparison, the Scorbunny almost melted with relief, his body shivering for a second. "I've already been knocked in the head twice now, I'd rather not have a repeat thanks!"
Only then did Alice finally seemed to relax a little bit, even if the one ear remained coiled in and ready to spring. The disgust itself faded away, and the corner of her mouth ended up twitching up. Sam blinked, his mind going blank. Wait… did she just smirk?
Her eyes drifted off him, and immediately narrowed. "Ah, you got another kid wrapped round your finger Aidan?" she questioned coldly.
"Last time." Sam growled, "Not a kid."
Aidan on the other hand glared at the Buneary harshly enough that he half thought he was going to claw at her. "Keep it up and I might push you off that crate Alice." He grumbled, still rubbing his head.
Alice only closed her eyes and jerked her head back and crossed her arms in such a way her very posture seemed to scream 'I don't give a shit'.
She didn't move from that pose as she spoke again, "Humph, maybe you shouldn't try hiding things as much like your rich family."
Aidan's eyes flashed red, a low growl rumbling up from within the frog's chest. "Don't compare me to my family you c-"
"Enough!" Sam snapped, that fire burning up in his chest as he stepped between the two. "Can we just agree to have a ceasefire until after this meeting!?" He glanced between the two of them, mentally begging them just to hold back, "Please?".
Eyes still fixed on the Buneary, Aidan didn't even glance over at the Scorbunny, lips twitching as if he was readying an attack. Alice meanwhile merely opened one eye, staring the Froakie down from her high perch. Sam himself only tensioned, ready to push them back down if they tried clawing at each other's throats.
But Aidan finally sighed, rubbing his forehead once more. "Alright, if only so we don't have to climb something else."
Alice merely looked away with little more than a grunt.
Legs shivering beneath him, Sam slumped against the crate, his ears drooping in front of his face. Damn… have I actually stopped fighting someone at least once since I've woken up?
…
Okay, stupid question.
Sam (and his ears) shot back upright as the sharp whistle pierced the air, his ears stinging from the call. Rubbing them, he looked back towards the tree, where standing at the entrance was the tall, red form of the Blaziken Rex. A few other Pokémon stood close by to his side, most notably a white and blue Pokémon that looked… like a Meowstic? He thought that was what they were anyway.
Sam had expected a few waves, or a warm greeting. But instead, each of the Pokémon up there looked… downhearted and depressed. Even Rex just seemed so tired, it was as if the entire world was resting on his shoulders.
This… doesn't look good…
The chatter faded away, as the crowd turned its attention on the Guild master. Sam glanced over at the two Pokémon by his side, Aidan's head was tilted to one side in confusion, whilst Alice was leaning forward, looking less angry and more curious.
The Blaziken took a breath, steadying himself, and stepped up towards the crowd. "Thank you all for coming at short notice." He started, his eyes drifting across the crowd. "I'm not one for speeches, so I will cut straight to the point. You are all aware of the resurgence of the natural disasters through the world, some of which we've already had to deal with here in the Sea of Wonders."
A quiet murmur briefly spread through the crowd, and Sam glanced down at Aidan, whose face was like stone as he watched the scene.
"I have just received word from the Council." Rex continued, holding up a sheet of paper above his head. "I won't sugar-coat what it says."
Closing his eyes, the guild master seemed to prepare himself mentally, before focusing once more on the crowd. "A massive earthquake has struck the Mist Continent… and Harbour Town was destroyed."
The crowd exploded, shouts and cries ringing across the square as one messy chorus, so incoherent that Sam could barely make out anything between the panicking masses and the Blaziken barking for some order.
"-at? How-?"
"-eed to get hom-"
"Oh for f-"
"Not again-"
Sam's head snapped side to side again, confusion gripping him. Adian's face now even more set, frozen in place. Alice's eyes widening, leaning forward… and one hand gently shaking.
Earthquake? A town destroyed? What the hell?!I know earthquakes can be bad, but a whole tow-
The scream slammed into him like a missile, crying out as the sound stabbed at his ears. Grabbing hold, he yanked them down, eyes squeezed shut as he tried to block out the scream. But a second later, it faded away, and his ears still ringing, he opened up his eyes to find one of the Meowstic's ears dropping back down. The crowd was more silent, save for a low murmur throughout the crowd. Rex looked back towards the white and blue mon; a 'brow' raised a touch. "Thank you Esper."
He turned back towards the gathered Pokémon. "I don't know all the details, but I must ask you all to remain calm."
What was left of that murmur faded away, clearing the air for the Blaziken to continue, "All I know is an earthquake struck the town a few days ago, and the other towns on the Continent, Post Town especially, are already working to try and help whoever is still in the ruins. Now, I know some of you are from Harbour Town, I've have already sent a message to the docks to clear you for a departure as soon as possible."
The crowd started to fall into worried chatter again, only for the guildmaster to raise his hands. "I have to ask everyone else to hold fire." Rex insisted, getting the settlers to once more calm themselves, "The last thing the Rescuers on Mist Continent need is too many teams to manage. If you wish to help, send supplies with those cleared to head there."
A few approving voices rose amongst the Pokémon, Sam couldn't help but agree with that approach himself. Every hand could help, but if there was so many scrambling to help, it could cause even more issues.
"Some of you probably don't remember the first disasters from 16 years ago, but many will know that the disasters never actually reached the settlements the last time save for minor incidents."
Sighing, Rex clicked his beak. "We don't know if this is a one-off event, but the Council and the different Continent leaders do not want to take any chances. The same goes with the Exploration Committee."
He opened up the letter in his grasp, took one glance through it and finally returned his gaze back onto the crowd.
"Therefore, the Committee has put through an organisational change to all active Guilds and Societies across the known world, as per the suggestion of the leaders of all five Continents, that all Exploration Teams are rendered reorganised and put under the direct monitoring of a new Emergency Body in response to the increase in natural disasters." He explained, "All Exploration Teams will be reformed as Rescue Teams, with their primary focus returned back to Rescue operations. Exploration will take a much more reduced role."
The crowd descended into a quiet murmur again, a few shouts rising up too little avail.
"Shit." Alice quietly said, leaning back on her crate. "No wonder they called the meeting."
Sam glanced over at her, "I thought these disasters weren't that big?"
"Well… I was wrong." Aidan said stiffly, eyes still fixed ahead, "Rescue Teams again… that's… interesting…"
Alice narrowed her eyes again, crossing her arms across her chest. "For once, we agree. And you've been living under a rock if you didn't think the disasters were big."
Sam slumped further against the crate, "Yeah… I suppose I have…"
That was when you had enough.
You drifted forward, silently towards the Scorbunny's side. You wanted to reach out, lay a hand on his shoulder. He shouldn't be here… not like this… not without… something…
All you wanted was to… help him…
The fur on the back of his neck rose up.
Withdraw! Withdraw Now!
A weight settled onto Sam's back, and his head snapped round, looking for whatever was there.
Nothing. Just a few more Pokémon looking past the crates. A Onix, towering over the bulk of the crowd, noticed, and narrowed their eyes. "Kid, what are you looking at?"
Sam hesitated, the weight fading away into nothing. What… what was that?
"Kid?"
Sam took a breath, and shook his head. "Nothing… it was… nothing."
"Whilst the Societies will focus on researching the disasters, the Guilds, including Robinswood Guild will need to stay on standby in case anything else happens." Rex continued, dragging Sam's attention back to the front. "I know some of the Teams here came to explore, but now, if you can assist us in these duties, myself and the rest of the Guild would be deeply in your debt."
The guild master crossed his arms, relaxing now the news was out, "Hopefully this will just be a one off false alarm, and we can all get back to exploring the Sea of Wonders fully, but in case it isn't…"
He let those words settle in, the low murmur rising up again as he glanced back more towards Esper, who stepped on forward herself. "Because of this, I've bringing forward the trials for new Rescue Teams to tomorrow." She explained, "So best prepare yourselves, we'll be starting early."
She stepped back, allowing Rex to take centre stage once more. "That is all. I wish I could bring better news, but I won't leave you all in the dark either. If you want to inquire me about anything, you know where to find me."
Rex turned, and walked on back into the Tree in silence. "Alright everyone!" someone bellowed, "Back to your business!"
The normal chit-chat once more resurfacing, the Pokémon slowly began to disperse, heading back into the trees, the town and across the square. Sam pushed himself off the crate. "Well… that wasn't exactly…"
"Pleasant?" Alice asked.
"I was going to say cheery but yeah, that works too."
She merely shrugged, "Well, it's about time we focused on dealing with this crap again."
Sam glanced over at her, still unmoving from her perch, before turning back to Aidan, who was now stroking his own mane again, his gaze focused on the stage. "Hey Aidan…"
Aidan didn't seem to react at first, at least, not physically,"If you want to bow out, I won't blame you." The Froakie stated, finally turning back towards him. "I know you didn't sign up for rescues."
Straightening up, Sam shook his head, "No, it's fine." He stated firmly, placing a hand onto his hip. "We're still helping people. I'm not buggering off now."
At last, Aidan's eyes brightened. "Well… thanks…"
"Eh, don't mention it!" The Scorbunny turned back towards his fellow rabbit, "So Alice, any pl-"
But he only found an empty space on the crate. Alice was already gone.
"…let's… let's just get out of here." Sam said, ears dipping, "Sounds like we've got a long day tomorrow."
You watched as the Scorbunny and the Froakie clambered down the from the crates, far more quickly than when they originally climbed up. Quietly talking between themselves, the two set off back down the paths towards the barracks.
You're lucky he couldn't see you. Only sense your presence.
That entity hung on you like a shadow, keeping you close as you watch the two Pokémon… the human included, depart. I can understand your desire to help him… but you need to restrain yourself. He can look after himself. We do not need to have him looking for something that doesn't seem to be there… no offense.
The presence shifted, I have been aware of these disasters myself for some time… I was around when the first wave plagued the world… right up until that meteor was blown out of the sky by the Legendary Sky Pokémon, Rayquaza. Well, the disasters continued, but not quite as intensely as before. But even then… other than one or two minor incidents, not one settlement was destroyed last time.
To have one be destroyed now… especially when coupled with Sam's arrival… this only confirms that this world is in grave danger. But from what? I do not know…
…I must investigate this… if there is any link between the old disasters and this new wave, I will find it. In the meantime, keep watch over Sam… and be wary. I cannot know for certain but… I sensed… no… I cannot confirm it. Just be cautious. I'll be here, if you need me.
The presence withdrew, and emboldened, you drifted down the trail yourself… after Sam…
Stars twinkled in the sky outside of the window, and the light had been dimmed down above their heads. A little bit of chit-chat still crept through the closed door, but otherwise, the barracks were increasingly quiet.
Sam was laid flat on his bed, his eyes fixed on the window. His mind deep in thought. He tried to process everything that has happened so far. What these disasters actually were, how violent they must be. He focused his gaze on one particularly bright star hanging out in the window, thinking on how distant it was from all of this… criminals murdering Pokémon out in the sticks… entire towns destroyed… part of him thought a world filled of Pokémon would at least be all cherry-cream puff.
He let out a sigh, he supposed that would be… too naïve. Alice might be still be an ass, but she was right about one thing. He had no idea what this world was really like.
"Hey, Sam."
He glanced over at Aidan, already settled in his own bed, hands resting on his stomach and eyes fixed on the ceiling. "How you holding up?"
"Fine." The Scorbunny replied, looking back at the ceiling above his bunk, "Just thinking."
"About what?"
"Well…" he hesitated, fiddling on the bed, "Everything. I woke up in a forest, with no idea how I got there. Only to find all this shit happening."
"It's been happening for years now." Aidan replied, "It's nothing new."
"That doesn't make things any better." Sam spat back, eyes flicking back over at the frog.
Aidan let out a heavy sigh, "Look." The Froakie rolled over to focus his attention on Sam, "The best we can do is just get through these trial's and try and help as many people as we can. Best hold back on trying to be heroes."
Sam chewed his lip, a debate raging in his mind. Should I tell him? About me being human? I mean, I can't keep quiet about this forever. Just to bounce everything off someone would be a big help.
"Yeah…" he started, "Aidan? Can I ask you something?"
"What is it?"
He opened his mouth, about the question at the tip of his tongue, at the ready. "Have…"
Something yanked him back, begging him to stop, seriously consider things before actually revealing who he was. No… he might not even know who a human is. And if he did, how would he react? For all I know, humans could be like demons or something to Pokémon!
And so, he shook his head. "…never mind, let's just focus on tomorrow."
The Froakie held his gaze on the rabbit for a moment longer, as if trying to encourage him to open up. "Well… alright then." Aidan replied, not waiting any longer, "I'm going to sleep. Night."
"Night."
It didn't take long for the entire barracks to fall silent, but even then, Sam didn't fall to sleep straight away. His mind still focused on the state of the world… and his place in it. He just wasn't sure if joining an explorati- no- a rescue team would answer all of that.
But I suppose it's a starting point.
Eventually, his eyelids growing ever heavier, Sam finally gave in, and drifted off to sleep…
From the darkness, the colours returned. Melding and shifting with the full spectrum as they flowed before him. I… it's the place again…
Am… am I dreaming?
The little star faintly started to shine amongst the colours, flickering in intensity. It's… it's you. What's going on? Where are we?
The light's flickering grew more erratic, as if blinking for attention. Sam tried to reach out, only find his body was once more gone. What? I can't hear you…
The star faded away into the sea of colours. N-No! Wait! Don't go! I need to know what you want!
The drowsiness returned, the lights beginning to fade away as Sam slipped back into unconsciousness.
He only had the strength to say one final thing.
Please… why… what am I doing here? Why…
And soon, the darkness brought him back into its embrace.
Sorry this took so long, I've been busy with switching jobs and getting some fic stuff sorted out on other sites. To componsate, here is a bigger chapter. Enjoy the impact it leaves!
![Guardians of Balance [Pokemon Mystery Dungeon]](/data/threadmark-index-icons/l/59/59173.jpg?1635877043){kind=icon}
