Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sweat dripped down the back of Rei's neck.

Arceus stared down at him with an unreadable expression. Energy rippled off the deity like waves. Rei's instincts screamed at him to run and hide as if he were a cowering Wurmple being studied by a hungry Staraptor.

Rei was no Wurmple. He was a Luxray lurking in the shadows of the night, eyes seeing everything. Arceus was a fool if they thought they could intimidate him by their mere presence.

Something in Arceus' expression shifted, as if they sensed Rei's resolve and determination, and they reared up on their hind legs.

Rei tensed his muscles, ready for whatever attack Arceus was about to send out.

The fight was on.

He would do the same strategy he had employed with the Nobles: study their attacks, the length and amount, then counter with balms. When Arceus was distracted enough, he would release one of his Pokémon for a full on battle.

A ball of glowing energy appeared above Arceus' head, whirring with charged energy. Beams of light shot out, arcing to either side, zipping towards Rei before they converged into a single point.

The heat from the beams grazed his right arm as he avoided the strike. He barely got a chance at another dodge when more beams shot towards him.

Rei jumped side to side, focused on avoiding each and every beam strike. Mentally counted the seconds between the power up and release.

Six strikes with only half a second between power up and release. He could probably toss in a few balms between dodges. Would they hit their mark?

Arceus stomped a hoof to the ground before shifting stances and raising their head towards the sky. A circle of energy gathered around Arceus' feet then pulsed outwards.

Rei jumped over the pulse to avoid it. It didn't look like it would do any damage, but he still didn't want to get hit by it. Warmth radiated up from the soles of Rei's feet seconds after he landed. He glanced down to see a circle of light spreading out from where he stood.

Without wasting a second more, Rei leaped to the side just as a meteor collided with the ground where he had been standing. Shards of the meteor broke off, hitting the back of his right hand and side.

Rei hissed, shaking his hand as it burned before jumping again as another pulse was sent out. He kept up avoiding the pulse and the meteor strike. Six of them.

After the attack, Arceus remained still for several moments and Rei took that opportunity to toss some of the balms at the deity.

Arceus reared up, an orb of energy appearing above their head before releasing the beams of energy.

Rei leaped side to side, counting between each strike in his head. The edge of one of the beams sliced a cut into the side of Rei's leg, causing a spark of pain. Rei dropped to one knee and grimaced. He pressed a hand to the wound.

It wasn't deep. It stung worse than the bite of a Zorua, though. Any other person, perhaps, would have been rattled or intimidated by the sheer power Arceus displayed, but not Rei. He had been through worse.

Arceus raised their head, energy gathering around their hooves once more. They were not giving Rei a second to breathe.

Forcing himself to his feet, Rei leaped over the next energy pulse. The heat of the meteor warmed his back as he broke into a run, racing towards Arceus. If Arceus wanted to play rough, he would gladly play rough.

Arceus released another pulse. Rei jumped over it, close enough now to touch Arceus if he wanted. Instead, he dropped into a slide. Arceus stopped in their attack, twisting their head down to stare at Rei before raising a hoof, ready to strike him.

Rei threw another balm as he slid beneath Arceus' underbelly, hitting Arceus directly in the face.

Arceus' hoof came down, barely missing Rei’s neck as he slid past. Arceus snorted, shaking their head.

Turning onto his side and getting to one knee, Rei grabbed Ace's worn Poké Ball, momentarily rubbing his thumb over the ridged Apricorn top before tossing the ball. Ace had been with him through everything–from his first arrival in Hisui, his exile from Jubilife, and his final battle against Volo–and now Ace was going to help him take down the Alpha Pokémon.

"We got this, Ace!"

Ace roared as he was released, the sound echoing in the mystical space and reverberating off the glittering floor. He stomped the ground once with his front paws before rearing up onto his hind legs, pulling out the red and black seamitars from his armored forelegs.

Arceus, who had lowered their head to use their leg to rub the balm out of their eyes, glanced at the Hisuian Samurott. Ace’s bravado did not impress them. Straightening, Arceus raised their left leg and the eighteen Plates encircled them, rotating slowly. The speed of the Plates picked up until they were a blur before they abruptly stopped, one rising higher than the others. The Fist Plate.

The cross-like antlers encircling Arceus' abdomen changed from gold to orange. Fighting type.

Fair enough , Rei thought. Just because Arceus was going to try and attack with Ace's weaknesses didn't mean Rei was going to switch his Pokémon or not attack with all his might. Arceus chose the wrong type to change to.

"Hit him with an Aerial Ace!"

Swinging his swords down, Ace charged at Arceus with a cry, air encircling his blades. Sharpening and lengthening them. Leaping up, Ace crossed his swords above his head.

Ancient Power.

Arceus' voice echoed around the space, calm, overpowering, and terrifying at the same time.

Enormous boulders appeared around Arceus, their facades etched with the fossils of Pokemon long past, then launched towards Ace. Ace struck two of the boulders from the air with his blades.

A stray one collided against Ace’s side, knocking him to the ground. He hit the floor hard, the thud echoing louder than a waterfall’s roar.

Rei turned his attention to his fallen partner. The hit wasn’t strong enough to knock Ace out in one blow, surely. "Ace!"

Ace shook his head, pushing himself to his feet. Ace staggered then steadied himself, pulling out another seamitar. “Rott!”

Judgment.

Arceus reared up, energy gathering atop their head, forming into a ball. No longer gold but orange.

"Use Ceaseless Edge to defend yourself!" Rei ordered as Ace withdrew one of his seamitars.

Ace covered himself in water, crossing his blades in front of himself as Arceus unleashed the Judgment blast.

The heat from the attack burned the water protecting Ace, causing it to steam and boil.

Ace slid back, arms shaking from the strain of keeping the attack from hitting him. Ace closed his eyes, teeth gritted as Arceus kept up the assault, aiming to break through Ace's defenses.

The steam. That was it.

"Deflect the attack then use Hydro Pump!"

Tilting his seamitars, Ace managed to deflect the Judgment beams so they shot upwards, disappearing into the space above. Relieved of defending himself from Arceus' attack, Ace unleashed a blast of water.

As Rei predicted, Arceus countered with another Judgment attack. The two attacks collided, water and heat, to create a veil of steam between Arceus and Ace.

"Now, Razor Shell!"

Ace flung the seamitar in his paw towards the steam veil, causing it to dissipate as the blade cut through it.

Arceus' expression changed to surprise at the blade hurling towards it. They growled as the seamitar smacked them in the face, whirling in an arc back to Ace's outstretched paw.

"Great shot! Now--"

Judgment.

Arceus unleashed a Judgment blast, striking Ace and sending him skidding across the battlefield.

"Ace?" Rei called as Ace struggled to get back to his feet. "Can you keep going?"

Ace growled, staggering to his feet. He shook his head, steadying himself, and turned to face Arceus only to be blindsided by Ancient Power.

Rei returned Ace to his ball. "That was a good try. The others will take it from here."

Arceus stared at Rei impassively, waiting for his next move. The orange on their antlers faded and the Plates once again appeared around Arceus, rotating slowly.

Whatever Pokémon Rei chose, Arceus was bound to use the weakness of them. Actually...that gave Rei an idea.

Grabbing an Ultra Ball, Rei tossed it up. "Come out, Wisp!"

Wisp remained in their keystone for several moments after release before they popped out with a laugh, swaying side to side. Wisp was one of Rei’s more recent Pokémon he had obtained shortly before the fight atop Mt. Coronet. Wisp was childlike, mischievous and extremely protective of Rei. Wisp looked towards Rei, ready for battle.

The Plates around Arceus stopped spinning, landing on the Pixie Plate.

Wisp had no attacks that could counter a Fairy type, but Blaze did.

"Sorry, Wisp." Rei returned the Spiritomb to their ball, reaching for Blaze's Poké Ball with his other hand to release them. "Now, Iron tail!"

Blaze hit the ground running upon release, dropping to all fours to rush Arceus as his tail glowed silver.

Arceus appeared too stunned by the switch to counter Blaze's Iron Tail, a super effective strike on Fairy types.

Blaze leaped up, whirling head over heels so his tail smacked into Arceus' forehead.

Arceus staggered back as Blaze landed on his feet.

"Great hit, Blaze!"

"Ty!" Blaze turned to Rei expectantly, ghostly flames ringing the back of his neck flickering.

Reaching into his pocket, Rei pulled out a small red square and tossed it to Blaze. Blaze was extremely food motivated, so Rei had found a way to make berries into portable treats that wouldn't go bad. The easiest way was to dehydrate the berries and add in some Combee honey or rock salt. Squares were easier to carry around and after some trial and error, Rei had found the perfect way to make them without them crumbling in his satchel.

Blaze's favorite treat was made from Cheri berries and rock salt.

As Blaze ate his treat, Arceus took a step forward, straightening. The Plates encircled them once more and spun until they landed on the Rock Plate.

Rei grinned. Before Arceus could consider an attack, Rei returned Blaze and released Wisp.

"Wisp, Icy Wind!"

Wisp giggled in excitement, form flaring rapidly before they unleashed a frigid tempest.

Arceus shrieked as the blast of cold wind struck them, shaking their head and staggering back. They dropped to one knee, chest heaving.

Now's my chance , Rei thought, returning Wisp to their ball. He grabbed a balm in each hand and threw them at Arceus.

He managed to get in a few more balms before Arceus raised their head and got back to their feet. Energy gathered around Arceus, causing the hair on the back of Rei's neck to raise. He tensed, preparing for the energy beams or the pulse meteor attack, but instead of doing either of those, Arceus vanished from sight.

Had Arceus fled? No. They were still nearby, but where....?

A crack like shattering glass sounded directly behind Rei.

He turned to see spiderweb cracks in front of him that soon exploded outward, Arceus emerging from them in all their glory. They rammed into Rei full force, knocking him onto his back and sending him skidding across the arena.

Rei managed to stop himself, turning onto his stomach. He attempted to get back to his feet only to stumble and fall. His vision blurred as he struggled to catch his breath. Each breath burned as his ribs protested.

Rei pulled Akari with him, dragging her from the camp and down towards Sacred Plaza.

"Come on, I want to show you something."

"We really shouldn't leave without telling Laventon..." Akari said, looking over her shoulder at the rapidly from sight.

"Kaa.” Pikachu, perched on his usual spot on Akari’s left shoulder, didn’t seem too concerned about the situation. His ears remained upright, twitching at the slightest noise, ready to alert them to any potential threats.

The Pokémon that typically haunted the ruins just outside the summit camp were gone, returned to their dens for a good night’s sleep, as the gloam of the day’s end blanketed the land. In their place, crepuscular Pokémon emerged, out hunting or defending their territory.

Rei wasn’t concerned about the drifting Drifloon or the cackling Gastly. This time of day was the perfect opportunity to show Akari what he had been studying the past few weeks.

"It's okay!" Rei grinned at Akari. She wasn't entirely resisting him pulling her along. If she was, he wouldn't push it. "You have me to defend you from the wild Pokémon."

“Pika!” Pikachu said, offended that he was being left out as a potential defender against wild Pokémon.

Akari's expression was hesitant, but she nodded. "All right."

Rei took her to the edge of the Sacred Plaza, right before the deteriorated stairs that lead to the main area. He knelt by a bush, pulling Akari with him.

"What--"

"Shh." Rei put a finger to his mouth before parting the branches. "Look."

Akari peeked over the bush to see what Rei was so keen on showing to her.

Laying in the sun was a Luxray and four Shinx. The red sclera and enormous size gave away that the Luxray was an Alpha. The Shinx appeared young, too young to be alone. Two of the Shinx were play fighting, growling and nipping at each other. Tiny sparks crackled off their fur, harmless to each other. Right out of the egg, the Shinx could harness a bit of their electrical powers, enough to frighten off humans. The shocks did little to deter larger predators like the Gliscor that glided down on silent wings or the snickering Zoroark which roamed from Alabaster Icelands in search of better hunting grounds.

One Shinx was batting at the Luxray's tail as it flicked, enticing the kit to continue going after it. The Luxray had deep patience with her kit’s tiny claws and teeth biting into her tail when it was caught. Instead of reprimanding the kit, the Luxray merely moved her tail to another position, continuing the catch-and-release game.

The last kit was being groomed by the Luxray, eyes closed in contentment as the rough tongue washed under their chin.

"Wow, that's..."

"Isn't it neat?" Rei asked, keeping his tone low. He couldn't keep the excitement out of his voice of his discovery. "It would be so great if we could show everyone else that not all Alpha are out to get us! They’re just like any other Pokémon, but larger!"

Akari stared at Rei with a mix of concern and fear.

"What...? What’s wrong?"

"I like what you showed me, Rei, I do," Akari said quickly, holding up her hands. Rei could tell from her expression alone that she had read his thoughts on her not liking what she saw. "I just...this is only one Alpha, Rei. With kits. Of course she's going to be different around them than with humans."

Rei sighed, shoulders dropping. He knew he was the odd one out. Fallen from the sky, behaviors that made him seem less human and more Pokémon. More wild. He had thought Akari was one of the few who understood him outside of Warden Ingo, but sometimes he wondered if she truly did.

The Luxray raised its head sharply, sniffing the air before climbing to its paws. The kits automatically scampered to hide behind a ruined pillar, peeking around it as their mother approached a bush.

"Rei..." Akari reached a hand towards Rei. She stopped when a shadow fell over them, eyes widening at the sight of the Luxray staring at them, red eyes blazing. "Rei!"

“Kaaa!” Pikachu shrieked, ears flattened against his head. His fur bristled as he bared his teeth at the Luxray.

Rei growled, holding an arm out in front of Akari and he backed away from the enraged Luxray.

The Luxray roared, electricity sparking around its fur. Ozone thickened in the air.

Rei grabbed the Heavy Ball that held the Alpha Magnemite he had caught a few days prior. It wouldn't be able to withstand the hit well, but it would be long enough for him and Akari to book it back to camp.

Howling, the Luxray unleashed a blast of lightning.

The Thunder attack hit the hand holding the Heavy Ball, racing down Rei's arm and electrifying every single nerve ending.

Rei screamed as he dropped to the ground from the attack. His vision blurred, breath coming out in painful spasms as the electricity disrupted his normal heart rhythm.

Rei was vaguely aware of Akari by his side, shaking him. Her screams pierced the ringing in his ears. "Rei, get up. Rei!"

He put her in danger all because he wanted to show her something.

"Pikachu, stop, you're going to get hurt!"

His vision was too blurry to fully see what Akari was doing, but he could only imagine Pikachu was attempting to defend them both even though he would be hopelessly overwhelmed against such an opponent.

I'm...

Rei's breath slowed as his vision and the noise of Pikachu's cries and the Luxray's snarls faded.

"REI!"

Rei's eyes snapped open and he took in a sharp, shaky breath. He didn't even realize he had blacked out from the attack.

The ground beneath him vibrated, a gentle humming that reminded Rei of the vibrations before an earthquake.

Rei raised his head to see Arceus with their head lifted high. Red light spread out from their hooves, blanketing the entire field, leaving no space to avoid it. The energy beginning to gather vibrated the ground, tingling Rei’s palms and up his arms.

Rei blinked, blurred vision returning to normal. He zeroed in on a small section of ground beneath Arceus that wasn’t coated in crimson. A blind spot. Perhaps a zone safe from whatever Arceus was about to unleash.

Gritting his teeth, Rei pushed himself to his feet, ignoring the faint aching in his chest with every breath.

Come on, Rei, move it.

Getting onto his hands and knees, Rei pushed himself forward, forcing himself into a run. The vibrating beneath his feet got stronger with every step.

Rei leaped forward, sliding between Arceus' legs. There was an explosion of energy behind him. Turning onto his back, Rei threw a balm at Arceus' belly in retaliation.

Arceus lowered their head to look between their legs at Rei. Lasers shot towards Rei, who rolled out from beneath Arceus, out of the way of the attack. He hopped to his feet and hurled one more balm as Arceus turned to face him.

A purple glow surrounded Arceus, eerie orbs of energy appearing above their head.

Rei threw more balms at Arceus, backing away as he did so to give himself some space.

Whatever attack Arceus had planned was disrupted by the balms, and the deity shook their head briefly before locking eyes with Rei.

They raised a leg.

Rei lowered himself slightly, prepared to dodge beams of light even before Arceus formed the ball of energy. A stray beam hit him in the side, startling him out of his steady dodging.

The sixth beam came as a flash out of the corner of his eyes.

Rei turned his head to see the beam coming straight towards him too quickly to react. He slid one foot to the side out of instinct, preparing himself to dodge, before he froze at the sharp burning sensation in his chest.

Rei reached a hand to touch his chest. His fingertips touched air where his sternum should have been. Taking in a shaky breath, Rei glanced down to see a gaping, starburst wound in his chest. The wound had been cauterized by the heat of the beams, leaving no blood.

Rei took in a sharp breath as his brain and heart caught up to the fact that he had a huge wound in chest, separating his spine from the rest of his body. His legs caved beneath him and Rei crumpled to the ground.

The ground beneath him was cool, but at the same time Rei couldn't feel it. Every part of his upper body was on fire. Every breath burned.

The thought I'm so sick of this went through Rei's brain as his breath slowed and his vision faded.

Get up.

Arceus' voice broke through the faint buzzing starting in Rei's ears.

Shakily, his body struggling to adjust, Rei slid one arm to his side so he could push himself to his hands and knees. Pressing a hand to chest, Rei sat back to gather his thoughts. He kept his hand pressed against his sternum, grounding himself to the feel of the leathery scar beneath his palm and the rattling breath in his ribs. His heartbeat was slowly returning to normal, the still air in Arceus' domain tasting sweeter than it should have on the back of his tongue.

Arceus stared at Rei silently, giving him far more time than he deserved after that deadly attack.

Rei breathed in deep, lungs and ribs aching faintly as they continued to recover. He spat a glob of coagulated blood on the ground before pushing himself to his feet.

Arceus raised their head, eyeing Rei as he steadied himself. They shifted a hoof to the side.

Rei leaped to the side to avoid the pulse of energy and the meteor that came afterwards, tossing a balm at Arceus between each dodge.

After the final dodge, Rei raised his arm to throw another balm, only to pause when Arceus vanished. He glanced from one side to the next before turning around when he heard the familiar crackle of glass.

Moments later, Arceus broke through the space where they were hiding, aiming to barrel into Rei once again, but Rei was ready for the attack this time.

He dodged to the side and tossed a balm as he landed, hitting Arceus in the haunch.

Arceus turned around, a blue aura surrounding them. Moments later, they split into three. Orbs appeared above their heads and a film of warm blue light coated the floor.

One of the three Arceus had to be a fake. Throwing a balm at one of the Arceus, they disappeared, leaving two.

Rei bolted to another one as the floor hummed dangerously. He threw a balm at the second Arceus and it vanished. Rei locked his attention on the final Arceus.

There!

Rei hurled several balms at the real Arceus, each strike causing the orbs of energy above their head to vanish.

Arceus staggered when the final orb disappeared, shaking their head.

"Now I got you...Artemis, let's get this finished!" Rei tossed up a Poké Ball, releasing Artemis.

Artemis flapped her wings once as she landed in front of Rei. Artemis turned her head slightly to eye Rei from under the ring of head feathers. 

Artemis was one of the calmer ones between Blaze and Ace. Ever since she had been a Rowlet, she loved roosting on his shoulder. Once after evolving, she had attempted to perch on him only to discover that her new size and weight caused her trainer to collapse. After that, she seemed to only perch on him when he was cold, treating him like an egg that needed incubating.

Rei gave a single nod and Artemis turned her attention back to Arceus.

Arceus used their Plates to shift their type to the Flying type.

Rei withdrew Artemis and released Orre. "Thunder!"

Orre buzzed, magnets spinning as they concentrated their electricity to a point in front of their eye. A metallic taste began to fill the air, raising the hair on Rei's arms.

Orre had been his first Alpha Pokémon and he was a tough one to beat. Orre was the reason Rei had thought that other Alpha weren't as mean as everyone thought. Even as a Magnemite, Orre had considered themselves a lap Pokémon, attempting on more than one occasion to snuggle with Rei as they had seen Ace and Blaze do as a Dewott and Quilava. They were not a lap Pokémon.

Orre screeched, unleashing an orb of electricity above themselves, creating a thunderstorm that rumbled and crackled ominously before unleashing a bolt of lightning straight to Arceus.

Arceus was wise to Rei's strategy and responded with Ancient Power, shooting it straight up so it collided with the lightning bolt.

Pieces of rock rained down, clinking on the ethereal floor as dust spread out between Arceus and Orre.

Arceus shifted their type to Ground and powered up a Judgment attack.

Perfect, Rei thought as he ordered, "Swift!"

Orre pointed their magnets towards Arceus, releasing a flurry of glittering stars.

Arceus shot beams of orange lights towards the stars, striking each one, trying to fend them off.

While Arceus was distracted with the Swift attack, Rei withdrew Orre and released Artemis once more.

"Leaf Blade!"

Artemis charged towards Arceus as several stray stars struck them in the face, temporarily blinding them. She spread out both her wings to her side, the primaries glowing and sharpening to the length of a sword.

Arceus had no time to counter attack as Artemis's blades cut across their chest. They howled and staggered back.

"Now hit them with a Triple Arrow!"

Artemis leaped back to give herself some space, pulling out several quills from her wings and aiming them at Arceus.

Arceus made a sound akin to a vicious growl as the Plates swirled around them in a furious circle. They struck Artemis with a flurry of frozen lasers as their type changed to Ice.

Artemis shrieked, reeling back from the effective hit. Her arrows clinked against the ground as they slipped from her grasp.

Rei grit his teeth. Arceus' counter attack had been faster than he had anticipated. It wouldn't do good to keep Artemis out with Arceus as an Ice type. "Good job."

Rei returned Artemis to her Poké Ball then pulled out a Feather Ball. "Aurora, your turn."

Arceus stared down at the little shiny Ralts that was released as if questioning why Rei would bring such a weak Pokémon to the fight.

"Mystical Fire."

Aurora grinned beneath her helmet before raising her arms above her head with a cry.

Aurora was the only reason Rei had beaten Volo's team easily. For a reason known only to her, Aurora refused to evolve and that was fine by Rei. Despite being in her first stage form, Aurora was powerful, with an arsenal of moves up her little sleeves.

Aurora swung down her arms, unleashing a ring of purple fire towards Arceus.

Arceus responded with Ancient Power, sending the rocks towards the oncoming flames. The burning fire broke through the rocks, incinerating them, and struck Arceus.

"Now finish them off with Double Team and Aura Sphere!"

"Raaalts!"

Aurora crafted copies of herself, surrounding Arceus. All of the Aurora began charging up their Aura Sphere attack, blue orbs of pure energy forming between their hands.

The Plates surrounded Arceus as they decided to change their type, but Aurora's Aura Sphere struck them before they had a chance.

Arceus dropped to one knee.

“Raaa!” Aurora punched her little hands together, walking closer to Arceus, prepared for more fighting.

"Wait."

Aurora stopped, looking at Rei with a curious noise.

"I think they're done."

Arceus exhaled, their breath coming out in a misty plume, raising their head. I commend thee.

Rei returned Aurora who made a disappointed noise at how fast the battle had been finished.

Arceus straightened, gazing at Rei with an expression of pride. Your skill at battles is beyond what I have seen among the other humans.

"I did as you asked," Rei said. He wasn't in the mood for beating around the bush or to have false praise laid on him, especially by Arceus. "I sought all Pokémon, I stopped Volo from destroying the world. I'd like to go home now."

Arceus remained silent for several moments. An aura of sadness or regret radiated off them.

I apologize if I somehow misled you, young one, but I'm afraid that there is no way for you to return to your current time.

Chapter Text

All Rei remembered was how to catch Pokémon and that where he was from, battling was commonplace. Gyms and Contests were popular challenges for those who owned Pokémon, a way to strengthen bonds between trainers and Pokémon.

That was it. He remembered nothing of his old name. Nothing of his family or friends.

Sometimes, looking at Akari too long made his heart ache, as if he were forgetting someone who had been deeply important to him.

Over the course of his time in Hisui, Rei formed new memories that were precious to him in the place of the ones he lacked. New bonds that were stronger than steel. The deepest bond Rei had formed had been with Ingo, a fellow amnesiac from a different time, a different region. They had a kinship. Due to Ingo's Warden status, Rei had rarely any time to fully speak or spend time with him.

After quelling Avalugg, the last of the Frenzied Nobles, Jubilife had thrown a grand celebration. There was no more threat of the Nobles rampaging through Hisui, hurting innocent people in their blind rage.

The people were happy. Beni made delicious food along with his famous potato mochi and Kamado brought out the good saké.

It had been the first time Rei had seen everyone come together. Even Adaman and Irida were there along with a few of the other Wardens from the clans. That didn't mean that the two clan leaders stopped in their petty arguments over who the true Sinnoh was; in fact it got worse the more saké they had.

Cyllene stood nearby, keeping an eye on them to make sure they didn't get physical. Abra hovered beside her, tail flicking every so often; it was the only indication she wasn't sleeping.

Rei had never seen Adaman and Irida lay hands on each other. Their arguments were always verbal, similar to sibling bickering. Alcohol had a way of changing people's personalities though, sometimes bringing out less than pleasant sides.

Rei settled in next to Ingo, who was watching the festivities from a table by Beni's shop. He had a plate of rice and potato mochi with a cup of hot green tea.

It had been the first time since their initial interaction by Coronet Highlands that Rei had the time to sit and speak with Ingo.

"Hey, Ingo, can I ask you something I think only you'll understand?"

"Hm?" Ingo glanced at Rei out of the corner of his eyes.

Rei avoided Ingo's gaze, staring out at the people gathered in the center of Jubilife, feasting and having fun. A temporary bonfire had been erected in front of Galaxy Hall to keep the area lit as the sky darkened, twilight covering the town.

Among the sea of people was Akari, dressed in a light and airy kimono with Pikachu lounging on her left shoulder. The kimono was blue with multiple Pikachu faces sewn into it. Each face had a different expression.

Rei spotted her easily in the crowd. He always found her, like he had an internal compass to pinpoint her location.

Off to the side in his usual spot was Ginter, a scowl on his face. It was obvious he was annoyed at all the noise close to him and his merchant cart with no one even thinking of buying anything.

Akari was talking to him about something and for his part, Ginter looked interested in whatever it was she had to say.

Akari turned her head, as if she sensed she was being watched, and caught sight of Rei staring at her. She grinned and waved enthusiastically.

Pikachu's ears perked up at Akari's movement before drooping as the electric Pokémon resumed his snoozing.

A girl identical to Akari flashed at the back of Rei's eyes, yellow hair clips in her hair and a red scarf around her neck. A white wool hat with a pink Poké Ball symbol sewn into it sat on her head.

Rei dropped his gaze from Akari and the image faded. "Do you ever feel as if you're missing someone important to you, but you don't know who?"

Ingo didn't answer right away and after listening to the sounds of laughter and talking for several moments, Rei peeked up at Ingo, hoping he hadn't unintentionally offended the Warden.

Ingo had grabbed his tea, holding the cup between both hands and staring into it.

Ingo's eyes always looked tired, as if he got little sleep, but their color was clear like the ice caverns in Alabaster Icelands. The first time Rei had seen his eyes, he had thought they were haunting in their clarity.

After another second, Ingo released a breath and turned his gaze to Rei. A small, somber smile graced his face. "Always."

That had been all Rei had needed. They were alike, outside their own times and without memories of their past. Outside of Laventon, Cyllene, and Akari, Ingo became another comfort in the village.

That all changed the next morning when he had awoken to a blood red sky. Kamado blamed him for it. The villagers all turned on him so easily. It was as if they had never fully trusted Rei. They whispered and hissed behind his back as he walked to the village's gate, exiled for a crime he didn't commit. Outside of Laventon, Cyllene, and Akari, Arezu was the only one in the village who was upset at the judgment.

If only Rei had known when Laventon had found him on the beach that fateful day that the safety of the village he would call home for the next several months was an illusion. Perhaps he could have denied Laventon's helping hand and saved himself heartache and bitter resentment.

Even now, Rei resented Kamado. He understood his point of view--a stranger from the sky comes and coincidentally, afterwards, Nobles become enraged and then a blood red sky blankets Hisui. If he had been in Kamado's shoes, he would have thought the same thing: it was the sky faller's fault.

Rei would never forgive Kamado for exiling him with nothing but the clothes on his back and the Pokémon at his side. He would never trust the villagers for their whispers and the disgusted looks they shot his way as he left.

The only ones who could be trusted were the ones who aided him during that time, the ones who risked their rank to make sure he had a chance at survival. Survival he managed with his own teeth and nails.

He’d thought Arceus was an exception to that. Until now.

"What do you mean, you can't send me home?" Rei asked, not sure he had heard Arceus correctly.

It is as I said, Arceus replied. Their voice resonated patience, as if they were speaking to an impudent toddler. I cannot returneth thee to thy proper time.

"Why not?!" Rei demanded, taking a step closer to Arceus. The rage and frustration that had been building within him felt close to bursting, like a volcano ready to erupt. He spread his hands out in front of him. "I did everything that was asked of me by you and the villagers of Jubilife. I didn't complain about the quests I was given. I completed the Pokédex--sought out all Pokémon--like you asked of me. Why can't you send me home?!"

I did not sayeth thy could go home if thy completed mine own request.

Rei growled, gritting his teeth as he dropped his arms by his sides. His nails bit into his palms. It was as if Arceus had slapped him in the face.

No, the deity was correct. He had never been promised a return to his time. It had been Rei's own naivety and hopefulness that if he followed the directions laid out for him in the Arc Phone, he would get some answers. It had been a lifeline to him, something physical left of his home.

His only objective had been to seek out all Pokémon. There was no promise of being returned home, not even if he read between the lines.

Arceus stared at Rei quietly, sensing the unease and distress emanating from him.

Even if I wanted to send thee home, I cannot do so, said the deity after moments of silence.

Rei's head snapped up to stare at Arceus. "What?"

Time is a delicate structure. People can be brought to different times, but to send them back is complex.

"I don't get it."

To send thee back, would be to send thee to either a time where thy has been gone nearly a year or to return thee to before thy were sent to this time with all knowledge thy has now. Both can cause ripples in the timelines, creating unprecedented consequences.

"Then just have Dialga send me back!” Rei set a hand against his chest, his other one sweeping behind him to where he had entered the holy space. “I can–”

Arceus raised their chin slightly, interrupting Rei. While Dialga does control time, their ability is not refined enough for time travel. It would sooner rip thee to shreds than return thee home.

Rei wracked his brain, thinking to all Pokémon he knew of that could control some aspect of time. Desperation drove him to find other solutions. There was little in his fuzzy memory banks, but he did know one more. "What about Celebi?"

Arceus blinked at the question before shaking their head. Celebi is mischievous. While she could send thee home, she would more likely send thee to a different time for pleasure.

Rei's shoulders dropped in defeat. He couldn't go home, not without messing up a potential future. A part of him, selfish and desperate, did not care; he wanted to return to people who could tell him more about who he was. People who knew him their entire lives. His parents, friends.

Young Rei.

Rei focused his attention on Arceus. It was difficult. Every fiber of his being felt light and airy, as if he would float away at any second. At the same time, he felt frayed and empty, ready to snap at the slightest breeze.

A small orb of light formed in front of Arceus’ face before drifting towards Rei.

Rei numbly reached out his hands, holding the ball of light between his palms. The glow faded, revealing a Poké Ball. Pure white with a golden band wrapping horizontally around the diameter. Arceus' symbol was stamped on the top half.

Rei stared at the ball for several moments before raising his head to look at Arceus.

Arceus stared at him then dipped their head. They then dropped to one knee.

Showeth me. Arceus raised their head to gaze at Rei with burning eyes. Showeth me the bonds people and Pokémon can form. I would walk this world together with thee. Showeth me how it appearth in thine eyes.

Rei's hands closed around the Poké Ball Arceus had given him, his nails scraping against the smooth surface.

They wanted to come with him?

He wanted to go home. He wanted to find people who could tell him more about who he was. What his true name was. What he had done before being sent to Hisui.

Perhaps Arceus was also lying to him, just like Volo had been. Maybe they could send him back, but they didn't trust how well he would fit into society.

It still bothered him though. He had a lot of questions, but only one remained at the forefront of his mind.

"Why didn't you take care of Volo?"

Arceus visibly startled. Apparently, they were not used to being asked so many questions or a human taking so long to accept their offer of having the most powerful Pokémon in their hands.

"If Volo was such a threat to everything, why didn’t you just kill him? Why bring in me? Why bring in Ingo?"

Humans would have remained fearful of Pokémon in this region, Arceus answered. They lifted themselves out of their kneel, staring down at Rei. I--

"That's not what I asked. I don't care if people don't become friends with Pokémon. I asked why you didn't take care of Volo. You're the creator of the universe. You have the power to smite him."

Arceus stomped a hoof and it echoed in the silence of the arena. Energy rippled off them, indicating their growing anger. How dare thee question--

"I dare!" Rei snarled, glaring vitriol at Arceus.

Arceus took a step back, their head retreating in surprise.

"You took me and Ingo from our times and dropped us here, expecting us to take care of Volo for you. For some reason, Ingo didn't work out, so you decided to try again with me. You put it under the guise of seeking out all Pokémon, hoping I'd run into Volo during my quest. You didn't want me to break too soon so you blessed me with the Reset. You knew I wanted to go home; I'm sure you heard me talking, so don't act like it was my own naivety. Perhaps you should have mentioned it in your cursed Arc Phone!"

Rei gripped the ball Arceus had given him in one hand, staring down at it like it had mocked him. He raised his hand above his head, frustration boiled over like an unwatched pot of water.

"I don't want your stupid ball and I don't want you!"

The ball shattered with ease when it made contact with the mystical flooring beneath Rei's feet, pieces scattering in different directions.

Arceus' eyes widened at the volatile response.

Rei stared at the pieces spread around him, taking in a shaky breath before he raised his head to pin Arceus with a glare. "I'd like to leave."

Either because they understood Rei's emotions or because they were too stunned to react differently, Arceus gave the smallest of nods and the crystalline stairs that Rei had climbed to the mystical arena appeared behind him.

Rei felt Arceus' eyes boring into his back as he turned around and descended the floating staircase.

The stairs disappeared the second Rei's feet touched the stone flooring of Sinnoh Temple.

Closing his eyes, Rei took in a deep breath of Mt. Coronet's crisp, clean air. He wasn't sure how long he had been in Arceus' space. After a few moments, and a few more breaths, Rei opened his eyes to take in the destroyed Temple, decimated by Palkia's enraged roar and overwhelming power.

No longer did beautiful pillars hold up a roof of pale stone, painstakingly etched into beautiful architecture by Hisui’s past inhabitants. Instead, they were spears that attempted to pierce the sky. The statues of the ten Pokémon who had walked alongside the ancient Celestican hero had been decimated, lost in the annals of time.

Behind him, the sun was beginning to set behind the horizon, casting everything in a cozy orange glow. From where he stood, Rei was certain the sea sparkled in the sun’s setting light.

He could have blamed Volo for everything that had occurred, but his hatred spun towards Arceus, who hadn't had the courage to take on a human that was a threat to the entire world.

Warm blood coated Rei's fingertips as his nails bit into his palms again, breaking skin. He took a few breaths in an attempt to calm the raging storm of frustration and anger he felt taking hold of his nerves and muscles. A feral scream ripped from Rei's throat as he raised his head to the sky, hoping the noise rattled the seat Arceus sat upon in the heavens.

In a blind rage, Rei grabbed everything out of his satchel, throwing items in different directions.

The Azure Flute smashed against a nearby pillar. Its shatter sounded like a crystal bell had broken, ringing sharply. Pieces scattered on the floor, pinging against the stone.

Sliding across the ground, the Pokédex's pages scattered, ripped from the delicate binding. Pages flipped until they settled on the entry for Togetic. There were sketches of Togetic doing different things, including sleeping against the leg of a certain merchant sitting on the ground, staring at a map in thought.

The Arc Phone bounced off the ground, screen cracking on impact. Its light flickered between Hisui's map and the notes for requests before fizzling and turning black.

The Celestica Flute went whirling, colliding with a broken pillar in the distance and bouncing off it, spinning to the edge of the temple.

Rei kept throwing things until he had nothing left to grab in his satchel, only the Pokémon clipped to the belt around his waist. He breathed sharp, shaky breaths. His entire body trembled as he gazed at the aftermath of his tantrum. He didn't need any of the items anyway. They were useless to him now.

All the anger within him had dissipated, leaving him exhausted and hollow. His throat was raw from his screaming.

Closing his eyes, Rei exhaled the last remnants of rage in a plume of mist, then departed from Sinnoh Temple.

Every step back to the village had Rei feeling like he had sunk his feet into the sticky mud of the Mirelands. Arduous and slow. Thankfully, he had told Laventon he could handle things on Mt. Coronet, so by the time he had returned to the base of the mountain, the camp was abandoned for the night. He crossed the threshold of the east gate, the sun setting behind the horizon, turning the sky a mix of deep blue and purple as stars speckled to life.

Jubilife, as usual, was settling into their evening routine. The delicious scent of Beni's food wafted through the air on the cool, early fall breeze as he prepared for the dinner rush. The wild Mr. Mime who hovered around the front gate was entertaining some children. Whatever story it was miming delighted them.

Ress was looking over some paperwork, making sure everyone who left the village had returned so the gates could be shut for the night. He glanced up when he caught sight of Rei and grinned. “Oh, welcome back.”

Rei barely heard Ress, trudging towards the arched wooden bridge that crossed the small river cutting through the center of Jubilife. The river separated the Galaxy Hall and the shops from the villager houses, farm, Pokémon pastures, and the south gate that lead to Prelude Beach.

Marie watched the pastures, tending to them and the Pokémon within them. So far, only Rei took advantage of the pastures.

When Marie saw Rei approaching, she greeted him with her warm smile. “Good evening, Rei. Welcome back.”

The disgust and contempt for him when he had been exiled flashed into Rei's mind, remembering the hesitant glance over her shoulder to the Pokémon lounging in the pastures, as if frightened they'd go into a rampage at any moment. He shook his head to clear it.

“Do you mind if I enter to check on my Pokémon? I’d like to make some changes.”

Confusion crossed her face, but Marie nodded, opening the gate to the pastures and allowing Rei inside.

In the pasture, six of Rei’s Pokémon looked up from where they were grazing or laying. These were the last ones for the night before Marie would turn in for bed. It seemed she had chosen six of the more nocturnal Pokémon: Dustox, Umbreon, Crobat, Honchkrow, Dusknoir, and Weavile.

Marie kept the Poké Balls containing the other Pokémon in two separate baskets: one basket for those who haven’t had time in the pastures and one for those who had. She had the system to make certain that each and every Pokémon had their time out to stretch and roam around.

After greeting the Pokémon who were out, Rei went over to the baskets to look for the Pokémon that he wanted.

One by one, Rei released all the rare Pokémon he caught, breaking the balls he had captured them in. Darkrai, Shaymin, Manaphy. All of them. They left easily enough, perhaps glad to be free of the confines of the pastures.

The Forces of Nature were the last to be set free. Tornadus, Thundurus, and Landorous all glanced at each other before they darted off in three separate directions, disappearing from view within seconds.

Enamorous remained, staring at him. Her expression told Rei that she understood his emotional state. After a few moments longer, though, she turned and vanished in a flurry of pink petals.

Rei stared where Enamorous had been for several moments before he turned and left the pastures. Crossing the bridge, he made his way into this house, shutting the door behind him.

It was getting a little dark and the hearth’s flames were extinguished, so he grabbed some small twigs he kept among the log pile by the front door. Tossing them into the hearth’s smoldering ashes, Rei knelt by it, picking up the flint and spark starter lying by the edge. It took a few strikes to restart the fire, but the small flickering flames lit up the small house right away.

With that done, Rei turned to take off his shoes, setting them in the entryway where they belonged. He turned to gaze at his surroundings.

It wasn’t his home, but it was his home. A strange dichotomy of something unfamiliar and familiar. The first comfort he had come to know after first being accepted into the village and among the Survey Corps. Over the course of the months, Rei had made the house into his home, decorating it with various items and adjusting things as needed to suit his tastes.

Thanks to Ginter and his knack for investigating Space-Time Distortions, Rei had obtained the mechanical cabinet, tub, and box; for now, he was still debating on whether he wanted the last two mechanical items Ginter offered. During his explorations in the Highlands, Rei had caught three Rotom, each of who possessed one of the mechanical items.

Rei set the mechanical cabinet by the right corner, beside the sink and small food prep area. AC, a smaller than average Rotom, had taken a liking to the mechanical cabinet. With its ability, it allowed Rei to keep his food cold which meant he didn’t need to go out as often to eat. Rei had grown accustomed to hunting Pokémon for food and kept a small supply of Basculin, Stantler and Starly meat in AC's frozen drawers so he didn't have to rely on Beni to feed him all the time. His willingness to hunt had been one of the few things keeping him alive during his exile and during that long, long month, he had learned to perfect his hunting strategy without the use of claws or fangs.

To the left, against the wall across from the hearth, Rei had set the mechanical tub. DC, the shiny Alpha Rotom, had taken over that item. It allowed Rei to wash his clothes much faster than using a bucket and washboard. During the summer, after washing his clothes with DC’s assistance, Rei had hung them outside on a line to dry. DC loved the washing tub, using the hose to playfully spray Rei when he got too hot.

On a small table against the wall separating the main room of the house from Rei’s sleeping quarters, he had put the mechanical box which Jules had taken. The box’s heat allowed Rei to warm the leftover food from previous meals taken from AC’s doors.

They allowed Rei some semblance of independence. He didn’t want to rely on Beni’s cooking daily without giving something in return. Since he couldn’t do that, and Beni didn’t seem too eager to add new recipes to his--in Rei's opinion–lackluster menu, Rei took to eating at home as often as possible. Really, eating rice, potato mochi, and wheat noodles got boring and nauseating after the tenth day in a row.

With Rei eating a variety of food, Laventon and Akari had sometimes joined Rei in his home for dinner; even Cyllene joined, when she wasn't swamped with paperwork. It felt like family, sitting around the hearth and swapping stories of what they had done for the day. Those instances were his favorite memories. 

Closing his eyes, Rei ran a hand down his face then walked into his room. His futon was still where he had left it, laid out with the cover thrown off haphazardly. Taking off the Poké Balls attached to his belt, Rei set them on the window sill beside the Poké Doll he had crafted with the help of Anvin, the Craftworks owner.

Sitting on the futon, Rei crossed his legs and tilted his head back to stare at the ceiling.

He wasn't sure what he even wanted to do. There wasn't anything for him to do. The requests from the villagers had all been completed. He couldn't return home. The Pokédex was done and the world was saved.

A quiet sparkle of electricity brought Rei out of his thoughts and he turned his head towards the hearth. Standing at the threshold between his room and the main room of the house was AC, staring at him with concern.

AC whirred, opening one of its doors and rummaging inside before withdrawing a plate of cold rice and berry glazed Basculin filets; it had been Rei's dinner from the night before. Before Rei had climbed Mt. Coronet to stop Volo’s insane plan.

Another hopeful whir as AC shifted closer, holding the plate within Rei's reach.

Peeking around the corner of AC were Jules and DC, who were also eager to see if Rei was going to heat up some food to eat.

Rei wasn't sure how long it had been since he had eaten, but he didn't feel hungry.

Rei smiled, appreciative of the Rotom's concern. The smile felt fake. "Sorry, AC, I'm not hungry."

AC whined, drooping. DC and Jules also drooped before turning and returning to their respective mechanical homes. AC set the plate of food back in its shelves, closing the door before shuffling back to its spot against the wall.

A small pang of guilt went through Rei at hurting the feelings of the Rotom who were only trying to make sure he was okay.

A knock at the door startled Rei out of his thoughts and from where he sat, he could see a familiar shadow standing outside the shoji doors. Pikachu didn’t appear to be on her shoulder.

"Hey, Rei," Akari said. Her voice was hesitant, but gentle and hopeful. "I just wanted to check up on you. It's been a while since you've come out."

Sweet, sweet Akari. Of course, Rei didn't blame her. He was usually rushing back and forth between the village and the wilds of Hisui, helping fill in the Pokédex or complete a quest. Staying in his house for so long was bound to cause concern.

"I'm fine," Rei responded, hoping his exhaustion didn't seep into his voice. "I just...want to be alone for a while."

Akari's shadow shifted and she seemed to be running a hand through her bangs in that nervous habit he had grown to like. "Oh, okay. Well...I just wanted to see if you wanted to eat with me and Laventon. Beni made us some potato mochi and rice.”

Ah, so that was perhaps why Pikachu wasn’t with her. He was probably eating all the potato mochi.

“He even made some Cheri berry candies. They have honey from Combee found in the Coastlands.”

AC, DC, and Jules popped out of their homes, buzzing towards the door before turning to look at Rei expectantly. He could almost see their thought process: if Rei wouldn't eat food for them, then perhaps he would eat with Akari.

Rei shook his head. "Thanks, but I'm not hungry right now."

The three Rotom wilted once more before returning to their homes.

Akari seemed to droop as well. "Oh. All right. We'll just leave a plate by your door then, in case you change your mind?"

A hopeful question. One that expected an answer or Rei to open the door to accept the plate.

Rei remained sitting on his futon, staring at the door and watching the behavior of Akari's shadow. "Okay."

Rei watched Akari hesitate before her shadow slowly departed. He sighed, hanging his head and giving a slow shake. Flopping on his side so his back was to the front door, Rei stared at the wall.

I just want to sleep, he thought, burying his face in the crook of his right arm.

Rei let his eyes close, his mind going blank. He wanted to sleep forever.

Chapter Text

Akari sighed as she stared at the plate of potato mochi that she had left in front of Rei's door the night before.

It hadn't been touched, sitting out in the cool night air. That didn't stop the resident Bidoof from enjoying the cold snacks, emitting happy noises as they munched on the abandoned meal. Upon seeing Akari standing nearby, they scattered, dropping their half-eaten mochi.

One brave Bidoof returned seconds later, gathering up the rest of the potato mochi in its paws.

“Kaa!” Pikachu snarled, slapping a paw on Akari's shoulder as his cheeks sparked.

“Bi!” The Bidoof scampered off after shoving the potato mochi in its mouth.

Akari looked at Rei's door, disappointment and concern flowing through her. It had been at least a week since Rei had returned from Mt. Coronet and he had yet to emerge from his house. She was certain he wasn't even eating the food he had stored in AC's doors.

"Pii..." Pikachu glanced at Akari, ears drooped.

"We have to keep trying." Akari rubbed Pikachu's right ear. He loved to have that one rubbed instead of his scarred left one.

Pikachu leaned into the touch, closing his eyes with a quiet "Kaa..."

Taking a deep breath, Akari knocked on the wooden door frame beside the shoji doors. "Hey, Rei, are you awake?"

Normally, she wouldn't ask. Ever since he had arrived in Hisui, he was always up at daybreak, ready and excited for the day. But now, with him not emerging from the room, she wasn't certain if he was awake and laying in bed or if he was sleeping in.

She imagined he was still asleep; it was before dawn, but she hadn't been able to sleep so she came to see if Rei was awake as well.

For several moments there wasn't any noise in Rei's house except for the familiar electronic whirring from the Rotom coming from beyond the walls. Then, "I'm awake."

Hope rose in Akari when she heard Rei's voice. She grinned, clasping her hands behind her back to grip her wrists. She shouldn't get too excited until Rei said yes.

"Oh, good! Laventon and I were going to visit Alabaster Icelands to speak with Irida about setting up trade and communications with the Pearl Clan and Jubilife! We already got the Diamond Clan's approval yesterday."

Akari waited for Rei to respond to her mention of the Diamond Clan. He had seemed to like Adaman a lot more than Irida. She didn't blame him; Irida could be a little cold and distant at first impression, but she warmed up fast to those who gained her trust.

When that got no immediate response from Rei, Akari decided to get straight to the point.

"Well, we--I mean, I--wondered if you'd like to come join us."

"No," Rei responded. His voice seemed softer, more tired. "Thanks, though."

Akari's shoulders slumped. Like a lot of people, she didn't like the Icelands because it was so cold and snowy, but the brisk air and familiar company were bound to be good for Rei.

Pikachu glanced between Akari and the door before he settled on scowling at the doors like they had personally offended him, growling softly.

Akari fidgeted a bit, unsure if his denial should be taken as a dismissal, before she decided to see if she could push Rei's boundaries. Even if she made him mad, it would be worth it if he would come out of the house.

"A-are you sure? It shouldn't take long and--"

"Akari."

Akari looked over her shoulder to see Laventon approaching, pulling his lab coat on as he walked. Floaro’s Umbreon trotted beside him, glowing rings helping light Laventon's way in the pre-dawn gloom.

“Pi!” Pikachu's ears perked up and he leaped from Akari's shoulder to Laventon's, rubbing his cheek against Laventon's face.

The Galarian Professor was one of the few people Pikachu had warmed up to.

Laventon chuckled, scratching under Pikachu's chin, eliciting small sparks of happiness from the electric rodent’s cheeks. He turned his attention back to Akari. “Leave him be. He'll come out when he's ready."

Akari chewed on her bottom lip, glancing back at Rei's door, part of her hoping that he'd open it. "If you're sure..."

"Come on." Laventon set a hand on Akari's shoulder, a soft smile on his face. "Before we set out, why don't you help me on a project I've been working on?"

Laventon was attempting to distract her from all her thoughts surrounding Rei's current mental state. She was appreciative of his endeavor.

Nodding, Akari followed Laventon back to Galaxy Hall. "All right, what's the project?"

“It's quite fascinating. I'm thinking we should study Pokémon reproduction–”

Rei kept his ear towards the door until Akari and Laventon's footsteps and voices faded. He went back to staring at the trinkets he kept on the windowsill with his Poké doll. More than half of them were from Akari. They were random items that held no value other than sentimentality.

Some he had gotten from his travels through Hisui; items that reminded him of the home he couldn't return to or remember. A strange tooth and pink scale he had found while scouring the shore of the Coastlands for Pop Pods, the broken red, blue, and green shards gathered from Space-Time Distortions, a shed fang from a Gliscor stuck in the jagged shell of a Golem.

There were a few small shards of rocks with ancient plant life or spiral shells embedded in them as well as amber containing a small claw. Volo had given them to Rei, pieces of history he had found during his travels but held no value to him. Even now, Rei didn't know who the true Volo was. There had been so many sides he had seen to the merchant that any one side could have been Volo's true self. Was he the guy who doted on his Togepi and lit up when he was able to dump information on history and the fossils Rei held or was he the maniac atop Mt. Coronet who wished to wipe out the world and restart it using Arceus' power because he had been slighted at some point in his life? Part of Rei wanted it to be the former.

The funny twigs shaped like a question mark or flower, the rocks that formed a heart and the colorful shells were all from Akari. She had gotten them whenever she went out on her surveys, excited to show off the amusing twigs and beautiful shells. She had given him a few of the larger shells, the ones that made the sound of waves when put against the ear.

Akari had discovered the phenomenon by accident and had been ecstatic to show Rei, shoving the shell against his ear so he could hear the noise.

Rei didn't have the heart to shatter her excitement and tell her that there was a scientific explanation for why the shells made the sounds of the ocean.

Reaching towards the pile of shells, Rei picked up one of the conch shells that Akari had given to him. It was the most beautiful one: striped blue and silver, wrapping around the circumference of the shell like bands. The inside was a pretty pink, like the rising sun. The shell was longer than two Poké Balls put side by side.

Rei set the shell against his ear and listened to the waves crashing up against the shore, eyes closing.

He wanted to visit the Coastlands.

Opening his eyes, Rei set the shell back with the others and pushed himself to his feet.

AC, DC, and Jules popped out of their homes with curious whirrs, watching Rei walk to the door.

Instead of putting on his shoes, Rei opened the door, glancing outside.

He had lost track of time staying in his room, letting the days blur together in his aimless melancholy.

The village was still dark, hanging lamps lit with small flickering flames. Dawn was coming, swaths of pink and bright white spreading up from the east.

The doors to the village were still closed for the night, Ress still asleep in his house, leaving the gates pretty much unguarded. The only current guard, the village Mr. Mime, was snoozing in an invisible chair.

Looking around, Rei made sure that no one was nearby before he shut the door to his house quietly and made his way to the front gates. He didn't need unnecessary questions about where he was going at this time of day.

Pushing one of the gate doors open a crack, Rei slipped through and closed it behind him.

He walked down the path that led to the camp set outside the Fieldlands. The dirt felt cool beneath his bare feet. A light rain must have passed through the area, petrichor permeating the air. Faint mist blanketed the area, slowly dissipating with the coming of dawn.

Rei didn't mind wearing shoes, but having his bare feet touch the ground and soft grass made him feel more connected to the nature around him. He could see why many thought he was more Pokémon than human.

The camp was empty, fire extinguished until its next use and tents folded up to prevent wild Pokémon from treating them as dens.

Normally, Rei would use the Celestica Flute to call Wyrdeer, but he had thrown the flute in his rage, leaving it in the decimated temple on top of Mt. Coronet. That was all right. Rei didn't need the flute to call on Wyrdeer or the others.

Rei whistled Wyrdeer's tune. Soft like wind whistling through grass, rustling the leaves in the trees. Even without the flute, the noise reverberated through the air, reaching Wyrdeer's ears wherever the Lord roamed.

Moments later, Wyrdeer trotted up, dipping his head when he saw Rei. Wyrdeer's eyes traveled Rei up and down, taking in the state of the human, before he snorted and pawed the ground with a hoof.

Rei could only just imagine how he looked. He hadn't taken a bath since his return and even without touching his shoulder length hair, he could feel it was tangled and greasy. He had managed to sneak to and from the canteen, but cleaning himself in the new open air bathhouse that had been recently constructed beside the Galaxy Hall felt like too much effort.

"It's a long story and not one I want to talk about," Rei said to Wyrdeer's silent question.

Wyrdeer tossed his head, then lowered himself to the ground so Rei could climb into the saddle on his back. When Rei was properly situated, he climbed to his feet.

"Take me to the Coastlands and drop me off by the road to Veilstone Cape."

Wyrdeer stared at Rei out of the corner of his eye before he started to walk. After a few moments the walk turned into a trot then a gallop.

Riding on the back of Wyrdeer was always an exhilarating experience with the Pokémon's speed blurring the landscape. Wyrdeer's swiftness allowed him to leap across rivers with ease and his stamina allowed him to travel long distances without tiring.

Normally, getting to the different regions of Hisui required a mixed help from Wyrdeer, Braviary and Sneasler to traverse the more mountainous areas that divided the Fieldlands from the Mirelands and the Coastlands. Wyrdeer, however, knew Rei did not want to take his time calling on the other two and merely wanted Wyrdeer's speed to reach his destination.

Wyrdeer cut across the small mountain range that separated the Mirelands from the Fieldlands, cloven hooves allowing him to traverse the treacherous landscape without fear of slipping on loose rocks. Once in the Mirelands, Wyrdeer found a hidden path past the Droning Meadow to reach the Coastlands, coming out on the crest of Crossing Slope.

Wyrder headed down towards Gingko Landing, passing by a group of Spheal sleeping in a pile on the beach. The Spheal on the top startled at the hooves pounding past it, rolling off the pile and into the surf.

Wyrdeer slowed to a stop at the slope that stretched up to Windbreak Stand which led to Veilstone Cape, the massive promontory overlooking the sea.

Rei slid down from Wyrdeer's saddle, running his fingers through the Lord's long neck fur. "Thank you."

As Rei turned to leave, Wyrdeer bumped his nose against Rei's shoulder.

Wyrdeer stared at Rei, expression telling Rei that he knew what Rei was thinking.

"It's alright." Rei set one hand under Wyrdeer's chin, rubbing the top of Wyrdeer's muzzle with his other one. "Go on."

The black orbs situated in Wyrdeer's antlers flickered faintly, but whatever Wyrdeer wanted to say did not come through. Instead, Wyrdeer gave a soft snort, expression softening. He then turned, giving Rei one last look over his shoulder then galloped away.

Rei watched the Pokémon leave before he began to walk up the slope.

It was still early enough in the day that the Pokémon who were commonly seen in the area were still asleep. In the trees were the sleeping Beautifly, hiding in the leaves to prevent predators from spotting them easily. Glameow, Vulpix, and Growlithe were gone, returned to their dens to sleep for the night. Any moment, they were bound to wake up and start hunting for breakfast.

Rei slowed his steps, eyes flicking from side to side.

The morning Pokémon weren't around, but the nocturnal Pokémon should have still been out for a while longer. Yet, he didn't see signs of the flitting Dustox or cawing Murkrow. It was strange to not see them.

As he came to the top of the slope, just beyond Windbreak Stand, Rei saw why the nocturnal Pokémon weren't in the vicinity.

Curled up right in the middle of the path leading to Veilstone Cape was an Alpha Steelix. Its presence had even scared off the Alpha Purugly that usually stalked the area.

Rei stopped, tilting his head to the side. He was not in the mood to take care of a Steelix in order to get where he wanted to go. He could just sneak around it, but the Steelix was obviously not where it was supposed to be. Steelix were supposed to be in the Highlands.

The Steelix snorted, eyes fluttering open as it sensed it was being watched. It locked eyes with Rei, unwinding its enormous body. The resulting noise was like claws screeching down metal. Staring down at Rei for several seconds, Steelix roared and slammed its tail against the ground.

Deep claw marks scored sections of Steelix's body and one of its larger protrusions was broken off.

Rei knew this Steelix. He had fought it once before with Blaze.

It had been a menace in the Highlands, gorging itself on Golem and Sudowoodo. Its habits turned careless, eventually killing more than it could eat. As a result, it left half-eaten bodies strewn around the area. The stench of rot and decay would attract scavengers and opportunists not native to the Highlands, risking the delicate ecosystem balance.

With Steelix's behavior growing out of control, Kamado had sent out a kill on sight order. Ingo–as one of the Highlands Wardens–had been the first to engage Steelix in battle, Melli joining him in a joint effort to stop Steelix's destruction.

Even with their combined strength, Steelix had proved too strong for them. Rei had been in the Highlands during that time on a survey and joined in the fight to assist, using Blaze alongside their Gliscor and Skuntank. Together, they overpowered the Steelix and in the battle, Blaze's attacks had scarred its harder than diamond body and broke a protrusion with a well placed strong style Iron Tail. As they were about to deal the finishing blow, Steelix had swiped out with its tail, sending up a blinding wave of dirt. Using that, it burrowed into the ground to escape. Since then, no one had seen it.

Steelix lowered its head, eyes fixated on Rei, a low rumbling growl emitting from its throat. It recognized Rei and held a grudge against him.

Rei sighed, grabbing Artemis' Poké Ball. He had no other choice but to take on the Steelix to continue his trek to Veilstone Cape.

"Let's finish this quickly, Artemis." Rei tossed up Artemis' Poké Ball. "Start it off with an agile style Feather Dance!"

Artemis screeched as she was released, flapping her wings to remain airborne. A blue aura surrounded her body, raising her attack speed while lowering the strength of her attacks. Shooting forward, Artemis barrel rolled towards Steelix, coating herself in shed feathers. When she was close enough, Artemis spread her wings then flapped them once, shooting the feathers in Steelix's face.

Steelix shook its head with a growl, cringing back as the feathers sapped its strength.

"Now, strong style Triple Arrows!"

Artemis kicked off Steelix's head, flipping once before she darted backwards, landing on the ground in a crouch. She raised one wing, using her other to grab three quills from her feathers, pulling them back on an invisible bow string. The sharp tips became coated in a red aura as Artemis focused all of her power into the attack.

Steelix snarled, grinding its teeth as its head turned sharply to pin Artemis with a glare. Sweeping its tail along the ground, it stirred up the dirt and whipped it into a Sandstorm, blinding even Artemis's sharp eyesight.

So, it had learned from its last battle against Rei. Instead of solely attacking with physical moves to overpower opponents, it was now using clever strategies.

Artemis remained still, Triple Arrows ready to fire at the slightest shadow that moved in the Sandstorm's swirling grains.

Rei squinted, ignoring the sand scratching his skin as he began searching for the Steelix's whereabouts.

For its size, it was very quiet.

Movement out of the corner of his eyes caught Rei's attention and he spotted a faint glow among the whipping sands.

"Iron Tail, behind you!"

Artemis twisted her head to look behind her, springing backward as the Steelix's glowing tail smashed into the ground where she had been standing. In the middle of her jump, Artemis released her arrows. Two missed their target, thudding into the ground just shy of the Steelix. The final arrow made its mark, tip wedging itself between one of the many segments that made up Steelix's body.

Steelix screeched, writhing in pain from the arrow's strike, body twisting and scraping against itself. Its movements managed to dislodge the arrow.

"Leaf Blade, while it's distracted!"

Artemis held her wings by her side, sharpening the topmost primaries until they glowed bright green. She lunged towards the writhing Steelix.

Steelix abruptly stopped in its movements, smirking at Artemis as it exhaled, breath coming out in a frozen plume.

Rei realized that the Steelix's dramatics had been a distraction to allow Artemis to get close to it. "Dodge it!"

Artemis had no time stop in her attack. Instead, she adjusted it, lashing out with one of her Leaf Blades as Steelix opened its jaws, now riddled with frozen fangs.

Steelix clamped down on Artemis' outstretched right wing, shattering the green blade with its jaw strength.

Artemis twisted her body so she could grip her talons into Steelix's metal upper lip. She swung her other wing horizontally so the green blade cut against Steelix's nose.

Steelix recoiled with a roar, releasing its grip on Artemis' wing.

Artemis pushed off Steelix the moment she was released, landing on the ground close to Rei. She staggered back, holding the wing that had gotten frostbitten from Steelix's Ice Fang.

"Can you keep going?" Rei asked, holding Artemis' Poké Ball. He was ready to recall her and switch her out with Blaze or Ace if she gave the signal.

Artemis could be a prideful Pokémon. Rei had found out that if he recalled her too soon before she was finished battling, she'd show her displeasure by pecking him.

Artemis glanced at Rei out of the corner of her eye before she nodded. She shook her wing once more before shifting her stance.

Rei put Artemis’ Poké Ball away. It appeared she wanted to keep going and he wasn't going to deny her.

That Ice Fang had been an effective attack. Using Synthesis would help Artemis recover from it, but the Sandstorm would weaken the healing effects. Rei needed to get Artemis out of it to take full effect of Synthesis.

"Can you fly?" Rei asked as Steelix growled, lowering its head before launching itself at Artemis.

Artemis nodded with a soft coo.

"Then fly up and use a strong style Synthesis!"

Artemis leaped up, avoiding the Ice Fang snap Steelix made at her. She flapped her wings to get airborne, faltering slightly as the frostbitten wing hindered her.

Steelix twisted its body, swinging its glowing tail at Artemis and smashing it against her side.

Artemis screeched as she collided with the ground.

The Iron Tail attack had been so quick. Rei knew the Sandstorm helped raise a Steelix's speed while hindering an opponent's evasion and accuracy, but there was no way the Sandstorm could raise its speed that much.

Wait a minute…

It could have been a trick of the Sandstorm, but Steelix's body appeared shinier than before. 

Rei recalled the Steelix's writhing after being struck in a sensitive spot. That hadn't been any regular writhing; it had actually been using Rock Polish, shedding an outer layer of skin to lessen its body weight and raise its agility.

Rei grit his teeth as Artemis staggered to her feet, feathers in disarray. Steelix had responded to Artemis lowering its attack by raising its speed.

Fine. Rei could play at that game.

"Agile style Synthesis then use Feather Dance again!"

Artemis shook herself off before spreading her wings. The blue aura surrounding her body faded to white before dispersing in a shower of sparkles. Refreshed, Artemis launched herself towards Steelix.

Steelix lowered itself, mouth agape. Ice coated its teeth once more, sharpening them to fangs. It lashed out, snapping at Artemis. Steelix missed when she leaped over its head.

She blasted Steelix with a flurry of feathers, blinding the steel snake.

"Now, strong style Triple Arrows!"

Artemis slammed her foot into the crown of Steelix's head, crushing its bottom jaw into the ground, and bounced off. Turning in mid-air, Artemis nocked and aimed three arrows at Steelix.

Steelix growled softly, slowly dragging its body up and shaking its head from the stunning attack. It turned its head towards Artemis as she released her arrows.

The arrows struck the side of Steelix's face, slicing up the side of its eye.

Steelix screeched, reeling back from the attack. It rubbed its face against the ground then pinned Artemis with a glare. Three cuts ran vertically down its left eye, leaking red and silver fluid.

Artemis landed on the ground, nocking three more arrows without Rei's orders, staring at Steelix silently.

The Sandstorm dissipated as the two stared each other down, waiting for the other to make a move.

Steelix released a grating hiss before burrowing into the ground and disappearing.

Artemis lowered her wings, returning her arrows to her quills. She turned to look at Rei with a concerned coo.

Battles usually made Rei excited. They were thrilling shows of strength and strategy between the human and their Pokémon partner. The battle against the Steelix, though, hadn't made Rei feel anything.

Rei returned Artemis to her Poké Ball then turned and continued walking to Veilstone Cape. The Steelix would be someone else's problem wherever it popped up next.

Rei passed by the Late Lord Arcanine's gravestone, idly running his hand over the top of the weathered rock as he went by. He halted at the edge of the Cape, staring at the sea that stretched out before him.

The sun was more than halfway risen from the horizon, soft pinks of early morning replaced with dawn's orange blanketing the rippling sea waves. Cries of bird Pokémon rang out in the air, their shadows flitting low over the water as they hunted for Finneon and Basculin that rose to the surface with the sun.

Even in the daylight, Firespit Island seemed to glow with the magma rivers that flowed down the sides of the volcano. Rei could almost feel its intense heat radiating from where he stood.

Rei let his eyelids close. The cool sea breeze ruffled his hair, sea salt stinging his nose. The waves rhythmically pounded against the Cape's rocky sides.

Sunrise in the Coastlands had always made Rei feel peaceful. This time was no different.

Exhaling, Rei opened his eyes, gazing at the horizon but not seeing it.

He had faced death a thousand times over. It no longer scared him. What was the worst that could happen at this point?

Rei took a step forward, air brushing against the bottom of his foot.

Chapter Text

"All right, open up, Rei!" Adaman knocked on Rei's door with a little more force than necessary.

He had heard from Irida, who had heard from Akari, that Rei hadn't left his room for over a week. Akari, along with Professor Laventon and even Captain Cyllene, were concerned for him.

"Rei!" Adaman knocked a few more times before he grabbed the door handle. He expected resistance, some kind of barrier that Rei put up to prevent others from entering, but found the door sliding open easily.

Inside, the room was empty. The only indication someone had been there recently was the smoldering hearth.

Adaman didn't want to step past the threshold. Even though the three boxes in the kitchen area looked harmless, he knew that there were Rotom inside each item. While very few ghost types scared him, the Rotom knew they made Adaman uncomfortable with their uncanny ability to possess the strange, mechanical objects and went out of their way to harass him as a result.

Tilting his head and angling himself a bit, Adaman made sure that Rei wasn't trying to hide from him. "Huh. He's gone."

"He's been gone since this morning."

Adaman startled at the voice and stepped back, closing the door.

Akari was approaching him, her scarred Pikachu on his usual perch on her shoulder.

Adaman relaxed slightly when he saw it was just Akari. “You didn't see him leave?”

Akari shook her head as Pikachu hopped down from her shoulder to greet Thyme and his siblings. "I don't know where he went."

"I see." Adaman rubbed the back of his neck and looked around. Everyone in the village was out for the day. Shops were beginning to open and the villagers were wandering around. "No one's seen him?"

"No. No one knows where he went."

Adaman blew out a breath, crossing his arms. He could use Thyme and the others to sniff out Rei's location, but that still wouldn't give answers about why Rei decided to hole himself in his house.

"Lea?" Thyme stared up at him with a questioning expression.

Adaman kneeled, rubbing Thyme's ears then rubbing Eon and Tempo's ears in turn so they wouldn't feel left out. "Well, while he's gone, I'm going to get some answers."

"Answers?" Akari repeated, tilting her head.

"He only acted this way after returning from Sinnoh Temple, right?"

Akari nodded, lowering her arm for Pikachu to climb up. "Uh-huh. He said he was going to talk to Sinnoh before he left."

"Something there has to give insight into why he began to act strange."

"Oh, I see!" Akari clapped her hands, a smile spreading across her face. "Do you think I could come?"

Adaman hesitated. He knew Akari could hold her own in a battle and he didn't want to hurt her feelings, but it would be faster if he went alone to the temple. 

Akari's smile faded when she saw Adaman's reluctance to answer. "Oh."

Pikachu shot a glare at Adaman, small sparks dancing on his cheeks.

Adaman did not want to get electrocuted. He thought for a moment before he came up with a good excuse for Akari to remain in Jubilife.

"I think it'd be better if you stayed here, in case he returns while I'm gone."

Akari perked up at that. "Yeah, that's a good idea!"

Pikachu pinned his ears back, expression telling Adaman that he knew what the clan leader was doing.

"If you will not allow young Akari to accompany you, I would like to join in her stead."

"Warden Ingo," Adaman greeted as the man walked closer to him and Akari. "I wasn't aware you were listening."

"I only caught the tail end of your conversation, but I would like to join you as a passenger in your trip to Sinnoh Temple." Ingo touched the tip of his hat. "I, too, am concerned about Rei's wellbeing."

Adaman sighed. Even if he did say no to Ingo, something told him Ingo would just follow anyway. The expression on Ingo's face also said he wanted to speak with Adaman alone.

"All right," Adaman relented. "Can you call on Lord Wyrdeer with--"

Ingo held up a hand to stop Adaman. "No need. I have much faster transport than the Lord."

Grabbing one of the Poké Balls attached to his belt, Ingo flipped open the latch, releasing the Pokémon within.

Adaman stepped back as the Alpha Wyrdeer shook its head with a snort.

He had heard of Ingo's Alpha team from Rei. Three Alpha: Kleavor, Basculegion, and Wyrdeer. He hadn't seen them yet, but he had seen an Alpha Wyrdeer before in the wilds.

Ingo's Alpha looked taller than that Alpha by another hand. One of the branched antlers on Wyrdeer's right side was broken. A ring of red bordered Wyrdeer's sclera, the typical sign of a tamed Alpha.

Professor Laventon had theories about the red eyes Alpha sported. They were indicators of strength and virility, attracting potential mates. Alpha appeared to commonly lead herds of Pokémon, acting as protectors to the young or sick. The red eyes of tamed Alpha were smaller, but they could flare up if the Pokémon felt threatened or was protecting their owner.

The latter, Adaman learned, had only been experienced once. Laventon never elaborated on how he had gotten that information and Adaman didn't ask more questions on the matter.

"Respectfully, Snowdrop is faster than Lord Wyrdeer." Ingo reached up to rub Snowdrop's muzzle when she lowered her head to him. "She can also support both of us."

"You want to ride a Wyrdeer bareback?" Adaman asked, gaping at Ingo. He looked between the massive Alpha and her owner.

Ingo was crazy. No one had ridden a Wyrdeer bareback before.

Ingo raised an eyebrow. "How else do you expect us to get to the temple?"

While Adaman tried to think of another way that didn't result in them riding an Alpha Pokémon bareback, Snowdrop knelt and lowered her head to the side so her antlers touched the ground.

Ingo grabbed the antlers, using them to swing himself onto Snowdrop's back. He stared down at Adaman from his perch then lowered his body, holding out a hand. "All aboard."

Adaman took a step back. He would rather walk to Sinnoh Temple than get on Snowdrop's back.

Snowdrop snorted at Adaman's hesitance. The black orbs situated in her antlers glowed and a psychic energy surrounded Adaman, lifting him off the ground.

He yelped as he was thrown onto Snowdrop's back, grabbing the Wyrdeer's fur to prevent himself from sliding off.

The last time he had been thrown using psychic energy was when Rei's shiny Ralts had tossed him into Lake Valor because he had somehow made her mad.

There was a small snort from Ingo that sounded suspiciously like a laugh as Adaman struggled to get himself situated upright on Snowdrop.

Once he had, Snowdrop returned to her feet.

Adaman glanced down at the ground and immediately regretted it. He turned his head away, staring at the space between him and Ingo as vertigo washed over him.

This was a different sensation than flying with Lord Braviary. Adaman wasn't scared of heights at all, but he would take flying with Lord Braviary over riding on Snowdrop any day.

"Our destination is Sinnoh Temple. All passengers accounted for." Ingo looked down to see Thyme, Eon, and Tempo staring up at him, tails wagging. They seemed eager to run. He pointed ahead of him. "Full steam ahead, Snowdrop!"

Snowdrop snorted, tossing her head and pawing the ground.

"Bye, guys!" Akari said, waving as Snowdrop started to trot towards the village gates.

Adaman grabbed onto Ingo's shoulders when Snowdrop broke into a gallop. Ingo was holding onto Snowdrop's antlers to steady himself.

Besides no saddle and the size difference, riding on Snowdrop wasn't that different from riding Lord Wyrdeer. Except Adaman realized one problem with Snowdrop: she was far too large to fit through the village gates.

"Wait, Ingo, the gates!" Adaman yelled.

The distance between them and the gates was shrinking rapidly with Snowdrop's massive stride.

"Do not fear. Snowdrop can clear them."

Ress, who was standing at the gate threshold, stumbled back at the approaching Wyrdeer. “H-hey, slow down!”

Snowdrop kept up her speed, planting her rear hooves against the ground and using a small amount of psychic energy to spring up and over the gates.

“Eep!” Ress covered his head when Thyme, Tempo, and Eon ran past him.

Adaman held onto Ingo's shoulders tighter so he wouldn't be thrown off as Snowdrop landed outside of Jubilife.

She continued galloping, gaze fixated on Mt. Coronet towering in the distance, stride never breaking from her rough landing.

"I told you not to worry," Ingo said, a faint laugh in his voice.

This guy was just as insane as Rei.

Adaman closed his eyes, pressing his forehead against Ingo's back. He focused on the rhythmic movement of Snowdrop's stride and the happy trilling of Thyme and his siblings, willing away the nausea rising up inside him.

"I hope I can be clear with you, Leader Adaman."

Adaman opened his eyes at Ingo's voice, but didn't move from his position.

"About Rei."

"All right," Adaman said. "What did you want to talk about?"

"As I'm sure you're aware, Rei and I are not from this time. We are from different times, different regions."

"I know that."

Adaman couldn't imagine Rei's feelings of being in a strange time, cut off from his friends and family. Ingo had no memories of where he was from, but sometimes Adaman saw him staring into the distance, expression vacant. Whenever Adaman had asked if he had remembered something, Ingo had always looked puzzled before shaking his head and saying he didn't remember.

"Are you aware that Rei has no memories as well?"

Blinking, Adaman straightened. "No. He never told me."

Adaman had just assumed Rei had his memories because of how he had acted. He was good at catching Pokémon, he knew their strengths and weaknesses. He had even spoken of a future in which 'gym battles' and 'contests' existed and people and Pokémon worked together. There was no fear, no fight for survival against the wilds.

"It is not something he talks about often," Ingo said. His voice had a hint of sadness to it. "As far as I am aware, he has only confided in me about it."

"Because you're both the same?"

"Fellow Space-Time outliers." Ingo nodded. "He is like...family."

Adaman chuckled. "Yeah, I get what you mean."

Rei was like a little brother Adaman didn't ask for. He was a good kid with a wild side and Adaman would do anything to make sure he was safe. Not that Rei needed protecting since he could protect himself just fine.

Snowdrop slowed down as she climbed the slope leading to Cloudcap Pass, the tunnel that separated Sinnoh Temple from the rest of the Highlands.

Adaman shivered, the cold wrapping around his bare arms. It never got easier visiting the Highlands and having to suffer through the cold. The only bright side was that it wasn't nearly as bad as the Icelands.

"We have an obstacle on our rails."

Adaman looked around Ingo to see that an Alpha Electivire was standing in the middle of the path that led to the cave.

From where he was, Adaman could see the scars across the Electivire's body and the missing left tail. Green eyes stood out against yellow fur.

It was the same Electivire that Kamado had run off during his blind rage at whatever Pokémon would emerge from the rift above Mt. Coronet. This specific Electivire would always retreat after a battle to lick its wounds then return a short time later to resume defense of its territory.

"I was hoping it would have stayed away a bit longer," Adaman muttered.

Ingo slid from Snowdrop's back, dropping to the ground. "I suppose we must scare it off again if we are to continue to our destination."

"I guess you're right."

Adaman didn't want to take the time to fight the Electivire, but perhaps this would also give enough time for Rei to return to his house.

Sliding down from Snowdrop, Adaman landed a little less gracefully than he wanted, stumbling a bit to catch his balance.

Ingo returned Snowdrop to her Poké Ball then grabbed another one, tossing it up. "Let's clear the tracks, Noctis."

A shiny Alpha Mamoswine landed on the ground with a thud. Noctis shook his head with a bellow, rearing up before slamming his front feet into the ground.

Noctis was an unusual name for a Mamoswine, but Adaman wasn't about to tell Ingo what he could and couldn't nickname his Pokémon.

Noctis' bellow attracted the Electivire's attention and it locked eyes with Ingo and Adaman.

"Vireeee!" Electivire stomped the ground, raising its arms and releasing a crackle of electricity.

Adaman looked at his Eeveelutions. Tempo was out of the question. That left Eon and Thyme. Thyme had a more versatile moveset that could help take down the Electivire.

"You're up, Thyme."

"Leaf!" Thyme leaped forward, landing beside Noctis.

Eon and Tempo trotted off to the side to watch the battle, sitting down. Their body language remained tense, ready to step in if Thyme was struggling.

"Let's start the departure with a Bitter Malice!" Ingo ordered, pointing towards the Alpha Electivire.

Noctis snorted then charged towards his opponent.

Bitter Malice? Adaman wasn't aware that Mamoswine could learn that move. He had only seen the Zoroark use it.

"Electi!" Electivire stomped a foot then rushed at Noctis, raising a hand as it became coated in sparking electricity.

When Electivire swung at him with the Thunder Punch, Noctis darted to the side to avoid the strike, far faster than Adaman had ever seen a bulky Mamoswine move.

As Noctis lowered his front half, tusks touching the ground, his form wavered. Seconds later, a Zoroark stood in the Mamoswine's place, fur writhing. Ghostly energy surrounded the tips, lowering the already cold air temperature by several more degrees.

Now everything made sense. Noctis the Mamoswine was actually Noctis the Zoroark.

Noctis howled, fur launching towards Electivire and piercing its body in several places.

Electivire screamed, staggering back from the attack.

Noctis' fur whipped back, slicing cuts into his arms and side. Blood soaked into Noctis' gray fur.

Despite being pierced, there were no injuries on Electivire. Ghost attacks had a nasty habit of slipping past the skin and attacking muscle, bone, and organs. More than once, Adaman could see why Iscan was terrified of ghost types despite, ironically, being a Warden to one.

"Lea!" Thyme looked at Adaman impatiently.

Adaman shook his head. It was his first time working together with Ingo in a battle, but he couldn't stand there the entire time gawking.

"Magical Leaf, agile style!"

Thyme raised his head, leaf on his forehead glowing with blue energy. Swinging his head down, Thyme launched sharp leaves shaped like sickles towards Electivire.

Shaking its head, Electivire seemed to recover from Noctis' attack. Raising its hands, Electivire summoned a clear pane of glass in front of itself.

The Magical Leaf bounced off the Light Screen, leaves floating harmlessly to the ground.

"Get in close with a Crunch!" Ingo said. "Strong style!"

Noctis leaped up, opening his mouth. A second set of jaws, made from eerie purple energy, surrounded Noctis' face.

Electivire turned towards Noctis, Light Screen still active.

The extra jaws snapped on the top of the Light Screen, shattering it.

Noctis landed on Electivire, digging his claws into the electric Pokémon's shoulders to support himself, before sinking his teeth into Electivire's right arm.

"Vire!" Electivire grimaced then grabbed a fistful of Noctis' fur. Electricity surrounded its hand. "Elec...."

A thunderbolt came down from the sky, striking Noctis. Noctis screeched at the electricity coursing through his body, releasing Electivire's arm.

With Electivire distracted by Noctis, Adaman decided to take advantage to get in a strike.

"Hit with an agile style Quick Attack!"

"Feon!" Thyme darted towards Electivire, coating himself in red energy to boost his speed.

Electivire yanked Noctis off its body, swinging the Zoroark above its head once, then tossed him towards Thyme.

"Lea?!" Thyme had no time to stop or avoid Noctis and the two collided, sliding along the ground in a tangle of limbs and fur.

"Thyme!" Adaman called.

"Vire!" Electivire slammed its fists together, grinning like it was laughing at the attempt at a dual battle. "Electi!"

Thyme managed to get himself untangled from Noctis, shaking himself off.

"Noctis, are you all right?" Ingo asked.

Noctis staggered to his feet, glowering at the cheerful Electivire. He released a deep, throaty snarl.

"Lea!" Thyme stomped a foot, scowling up at Noctis. "Leafeon. Feon!"

Noctis stared at Thyme, scratching his cheek as he tilted his head. He gave a small growl, ear twitching.

"Eon!" Thyme pinned his ears back.

Noctis blinked at Thyme before a wicked smile crossed his muzzle. He snickered at Thyme which only made Thyme bristle.

"Thyme!" Adaman called. "Come on, let's keep battling."

"I apologize," Ingo said. "Noctis has yet to work alongside a partner and his lax nature can be off putting to some."

"No, it's not your fault." Adaman sighed as Thyme kicked some snow at Noctis before turning his attention back to the Electivire. "I haven't worked with anyone in a battle before and I'm treating it like a single battle."

Ingo nodded, tipping his hat. "Then perhaps we should start working together."

"That Light Screen is going to be the worst of our troubles since it blocks special moves like Bitter Malice and Magical Leaf."

"Yes. Perhaps..."

The expression on Ingo's face said he was already thinking of something. Whatever he was thinking was interrupted as Electivire got tired of waiting and unleashed a Thunderbolt towards Noctis and Thyme.

"Counter it with a Flamethrower!" Ingo ordered.

Noctis released a stream of flames at the oncoming bolt of electricity and the two moves collided. Fire and electricity mixed in a volatile impact before exploding.

Noctis knew Flamethrower? That was it!

"Thyme, Sunny Day!"

"Fee!" Thyme lifted his head to the sky, a golden glow covering his body. The glow expanded before shattering, sparkles showering upwards.

Above, the clouds dissipated, revealing the sun. Its rays intensified, shining down and melting the snow around them.

Ingo seemed to understand what Adaman wanted him to do.

"Flamethrower again, strong style!"

Noctis grinned, fur writhing as red energy moved up from the tips of his fur and gathered at the front of his muzzle. He unleashed a blast of flames at Electivire, the intense heat searing the ground.

Adaman was hoping that the Electiview would use Light Screen to block the Flamethrower. When it did, he would use that opportunity to attack.

As expected, Electivire raised the Light Screen in front of itself. The flames slammed into the barrier, causing Electivire to slide back from the impact.

"Agile style Quick Attack!"

Thyme darted towards Electivire, leaping to the side to get at Electivire's back.

"Vire?!" Electivire's eyes tracked Thyme’s movement but it was unable to drop its Light Screen to counter Thyme's incoming attack unless it wanted to get hit by Noctis' Flamethrower.

Thyme smirked, colliding with Electivire's back.

Electivire staggered, Light Screen dropping.

"Shadow Claw, Noctis!"

"Thyme, Shadow Ball, strong style!"

Noctis launched himself towards Electivire as it recovered its balance. He leaped up, claws dripping with spectral energy.

"Vire..." Electivire swung a Thunder Punch towards Noctis, but stumbled when Thyme hit its back with a ball of shadows. The swing missed Noctis and he dragged his claws down Electivire's chest as he landed on the ground.

Electivire dropped to one knee, slamming a fist into the ground to keep itself upright.

Noctis growled, baring his teeth.

"Lea." Thyme stared at Electivire as he stood beside Noctis. "Leaf, Leafeon."

"Electivire..." Electivire scowled at both Pokémon standing before it, obviously considering whether it wanted to keep fighting them.

"We can keep going if you're that intent on battling," Adaman said. "Or you can just leave."

After a few seconds, Electivire stood and leaped onto the rising hill behind Adaman and Ingo. It stared down at them for a while before turning and walking away.

"Well that took more time than necessary," Adaman muttered, kneeling so he could rub Thyme's ears when the Eeveelution came over.

The intense sunlight slowly abated, returning the area to its chilly temperature. Adaman would have liked for the Sunny Day to last a bit longer.

Ingo returned Noctis to his Poké Ball. "Yet, the path is now clear for a while. We should resume our original destination."

"I guess you're right."

They weren't too far from the temple. They were going to get answers soon.

"I'll just call upon Snowdrop again--"

"No, no, no," Adaman said quickly when Ingo grabbed Snowdrop's Poké Ball. "We can just walk from here."

Ingo blinked then returned Snowdrop's Poké Ball to his belt. "Right. Let's go then."

Adaman sighed internally, beginning to walk with Ingo. He did not want to get back on Snowdrop.

Thyme, Eon, and Tempo ran ahead of them, leaping over each other and occasionally rolling in the snow with happy chirps.

Adaman wondered if he would have had different thoughts on snow if he had been born into the Pearl Clan and lived his entire life in the Icelands. Would he have thought the Diamond Clan were the strange ones, worshiping a deity of time? Would he have argued with the Diamond Clan leader about who the true Sinnoh was like he argued with Irida?

Why did the clans break up in the first place?

The thought that crossed Adaman's next startled even him. He knew only the basics of the history of the clans: They were once one clan that came from a faraway region so they could worship Sinnoh. After that, it was kind of murky. How did the clans even come to the conclusion of two Sinnoh? Had they seen those statues in the Highlands and began to argue over which one was the Sinnoh they worshipped? If that were the case, then how did they come to the answer that Sinnoh controlled time or space? As far as Adaman had seen from the statues, they had no information on them. No clues that said that one controlled space and one controlled time.

Adaman shook his head to stop the thoughts from spiraling. He rubbed his temple, feeling a headache starting to form.

The thought of I wish Volo was here rose into Adaman's mind next.

Volo was a walking encyclopedia of random knowledge and Hisuian myths and legends. He would probably know about the history of the clans.

Though now that he thought on it, Adaman realized he hadn't seen Volo since they had worked together to get the Red chain from the Lake Guardians.

"Hey, Ingo," Adaman said as he and Ingo walked through Cloudcap Pass.

The tunnel was mildly warmer than the weather outside and a part of Adaman just wanted to sit there and remain warm.

"Hm?" Ingo glanced at Adaman out of the corner of his eyes.

"Have you seen Volo lately?"

"Hm." Ingo folded his arms over his chest, rubbing his chin with one hand. "Let me see..."

The cold hit Adaman hard when he and Ingo exited Cloudcap Pass, causing him to shiver. Straight ahead, the imposing, broken pillars of the Temple of Sinnoh towered over them.

Ingo shook his head, dropping his arms to his sides as he sighed. "I'm afraid I haven't seen him."

"When did you see him last?"

"I believe I saw him shortly before Rei returned here to speak with Sinnoh."

Volo was a wanderer, Adaman knew that much about the elusive merchant who loved history. Not seeing him for a few weeks was unusual, though. He had to return at some point to Jubilife to replenish his supplies.

Then again, with the rumors swirling around the clans and among some citizens of Jubilife, Adaman didn't blame Volo for wanting to disappear as quietly as possible. Rumors were to be taken with a grain of salt, especially the ones that claimed it was actually Volo who had been the cause of the Red Sky and the Frenzied Nobles, not Rei like Kamamdo had accused. The rumors would remain rumors until they disappeared without proof or testimony that they were true.

"Hey."

Adaman startled when a hand clapped down on his shoulder, jerking him out of the thoughts he had dove into.

Ingo stared at him, concerned crystal eyes still unnerving. "Are you all right?"

"Yeah." Adaman shook his head, resisting the urge to smack his cheeks. He had to focus. They were here for Rei.

The temple still looked the same as Adaman remembered, pillars that once supported a beautiful roof carved from marble destroyed and broken by Palkia.

As they drew closer to the back, Adaman saw items strewn around the temple's floor and recognized them.

"This is all Rei's stuff." Adaman picked up the Arc Phone that Rei always seemed to have his nose in. Rei had told him it held a map of Hisui so he knew where he was going as well as instructions on what to do. Even now it baffled Adaman with its futuristic style.

The screen was black, spiderweb cracks spreading along the surface.

Adaman tapped the Arc Phone out of curiosity but it didn't do anything so he set it back on the ground.

Pieces of the Pokédex were scattered along the ground, pages damp from the rain that had fallen the night before. All the writing and drawings were smeared, making whatever Rei had written down illegible.

Shards of purple were scattered around a pillar nearby and off in the distance was the Celestica Flute.

Adaman went over to pick up the Celestica Flute, staring at it like it would give him answers. He looked at Ingo who was also investigating the discarded items. "Why would he leave all of this here?"

"I'm not sure." Ingo picked up one of the tools from the craft box. His expression was troubled and sad. "I suspect we can only get the answers from Rei himself. Whatever transpired here enraged him and yet..."

Ingo's gaze drifted to the Pokédex.

The Pokédex was Rei's pride, Adaman knew that much. He took a lot of time to study each and every Pokémon, drawing them and writing notes on behavior. Surely even in his rage, Rei would have taken the Pokédex with him.

"I think it also broke his spirit."

Something tugged at the back of Rei's skull, as if a rope had wrapped itself around his brain and pulled.

Rei stepped back, wind whipping around him, urging him to ignore whatever had caught his attention.

That sensation had been a psychic energy. Psychic Pokémon had the ability to unleash their powers, in defense or attack or even to just get attention from whatever was within a certain vicinity. Rei had felt the energy of a lot of psychic types and as a result, got used to their unique signatures. This energy wasn't one he recognized.

Taking a few steps away from the edge of the cape, Rei turned around, scanning the horizon. Nothing seemed different. The bird Pokémon still hunted for their breakfast, the sun's rays spread across the sea's surface like seeking fingers.

Where? Rei asked in his mind, hoping whatever had sent out the psychic distress call would respond.

After a few moments, the psychic pull returned, one strong tug before it retreated.

Rei snapped his head towards Spring Path. The distress call had come from Turnback Cave.

Part of Rei hissed that he should ignore the strange call and return to the Cape's edge. The other part told him to heed it.

Grabbing Artemis' Poké Ball, Rei released her.

Artemis shook herself, feathers fluffing, before looking around. Upon laying eyes on Rei, she cooed happily.

"Artemis, wait a second!" Rei said when Artemis flew up and promptly perched on his shoulders.

She wasn't a Rowlet anymore, but that didn't stop her from acting like one.

Rei staggered under her weight before dropping to the ground when he lost his balance.

Artemis didn't seem to mind, shifting her weight to further cover Rei, feathers fluffed to retain heat.

Normally, Rei wouldn't mind. Her sitting on him to use her body heat to retain his own heat worked well in the Icelands. Here in the Coastlands, though, the rising humidity and her body heat were making him start to sweat.

"Artemis, now isn't the time!"

Artemis craned her neck down to stare at her owner upside down.

"I need you to take me to Turnback Cave." Rei pointed towards Spring Path. "There's a Pokémon that needs help."

Artemis looked where Rei was pointing before she hopped off Rei, flapping her wings. Using her feet, she gently wrapped her claws around Rei's waist to lift him off the ground.

Braviary may have been able to carry a Golem without breaking a sweat, but Artemis had no trouble carrying Rei to Spring Path despite her different body and wing shape.

Setting Rei down on the top of the ledge that led down into the small spring where Turnback Cave was, Artemis landed beside him.

Even from where he stood looking into the hidden spring, Rei could smell the strong stench of blood. Different waves of psychic energy hung in the air, blended together into a single signature Rei couldn't place.

On the other side by the cave itself, Rei spotted two motionless forms, but couldn't quite make out what they were.

"Good job." Rei ruffled Artemis' crest feathers before returning her to her Poké Ball. He slid down the side of the rocky wall that rose up around the spring, dropping on the small patch of land separating him from Turnback Cave.

It seemed a waste to call on Lord Basculegion just to get across the small swath of water.

Rei released Wisp from their Poké Ball.

Wisp stared at Turnback Cave silently before their form shuddered. They shrunk back into the keystone with a low keening sound.

"Something in here bothers you, huh?"

Wisp shuddered again with another whine.

Rei knelt by Wisp, patting the side of their keystone to comfort them. "Can you use Icy Wind to create a bridge for me to get across? You can return once you're done.”

Wisp didn't move for several seconds before they finally nodded. They exhaled a blast of arctic air, freezing a sturdy pathway for Rei on the water's surface.

"Thank you." Rei returned Wisp to their Poké Ball then walked across the ice bridge.

Something caught his attention in the water and he slowed to a stop, looking into the water. Rei inhaled a sharp breath.

Poking out from a pile of rubble on the spring's bottom was an Arcanine, one paw outstretched as if attempting to free itself from its watery prison.

Rei turned his head away from the sight, continuing to walk. He didn't want to know how an Arcanine had managed to land itself in such an unfortunate position.

Once he had reached the other side of the lake, Rei could see what the two forms were.

Slumped against the tree to Rei's left was a Roserade, slash marks covering its body as if wind had ripped into it. One single cut across its throat had ended whatever fight it still had left.

Leaning against the left pillar outside of Turnback Cave was a Garchomp, holes piercing its wings, legs, and stomach. A thin layer of water spread out from its body, mixed with dried blood.

"Ice...?" Rei muttered, kneeling by the Garchomp to investigate it out of morbid curiosity.

Garchomp were extremely weak to ice moves and the water indicated that an ice type attack had been used, melting as time went by.

Rei wasn't aware that the cave even attracted Pokémon. The only Pokémon he knew of in the cave was Giratina who had disappeared the moment he had released it. Whatever had killed these Pokémon, Rei knew it wasn't Giratina's doing.

Wrapped around the Garchomp's tail was a ring of brown tumblestone. Score marks covered the surface of the otherwise smooth rocks.

"It can't be." Rei slid the necklace from the Garchomp's tail, staring at it.

"Why do you have that around his neck?"

"What, the tumblestones?" Volo asked as Gible happily gnawed on the tumblestones hanging from his neck. "He's teething. Tumblestones are the only thing his jaws can't break."

"Huh. I bet you went through a lot of trial and error to find out what would work for him."

Volo laughed. "You'd win that bet."

Rolling the mass of tumblestones in his hand, Rei looked back at the Garchomp in front of him.

It was Volo's Garchomp. That meant that the Roserade and Arcanine were his, too.

What had happened here and where were the others?

Shoving the tumblestone necklace into his pocket, Rei stood and entered Turnback Cave.

Inside was the rest of Volo's team along with Volo lying near the back of the cave.

Lucario hung off the ground, skewered by earth spikes bursting from the ground.

Nearby was the keystone that held Spiritomb, shattered into three pieces.

Togekiss was the closest one to Volo, her white feathers covered in blood and soot.

Rei cautiously walked deeper into the cave, observing the carnage. Something had attacked in a rage, but that icy, skin crawling sensation he associated with Giratina wasn't there. All that was there was the scent of blood, ozone, and death.

Something else had killed Volo's team.

Rei moved closer to Volo, keeping his hand against Ace's Poké Ball. Was Volo dead as well?

Lying on top of Volo was a Pokémon Rei didn't recognize. Yet, he knew its name.

Sigilyph. A Pokémon known for roaming ruins and having connections with ancient civilizations.

Why was a Sigilyph there? Had it protected Volo? The lacerations on its body suggested that it had.

Rei couldn't tell what blood was from Volo and what was from the Sigilyph or even Volo's other Pokémon. It was hard to tell if Volo was even still alive with how still he was.

Reaching towards Volo to check his pulse, the action seemed to awaken the Sigilyph which instantly darted into the air with a screech.

"Whoa, easy!" Rei held up his hands, taking several steps back.

The Sigilyph made a keening noise, glaring at Rei, before it sank to the ground with a whimper.

That psychic energy had been from the Sigilyph. It had been the one asking for help.

The Sigilyph glowered at Rei as he once again moved closer to Volo, but seemed unable to move, energy spent.

Rei set two fingers against Volo's neck, feeling a faint, thready pulse. A fever was setting in and Rei wondered just how long Volo had been in the cave.

Any other person would just leave Volo to his fate. He tried to destroy the world and now he was here, injured from an unknown assailant and vulnerable to predators and the elements.

Rei wasn't any other person, though, and even if he partially considered leaving Volo, it left a bad taste in his mouth.

With a sigh, Rei grabbed Blaze and Ace's Poké Balls, releasing them.

The two Pokémon glanced around the cave, taking in everything, before they looked at Rei with confused expressions.

"We're going to take Sigilyph and Volo back home."

Blaze and Ace stared at the unconscious Sigilyph and Volo in turn then stared at Rei. This time, their expressions were asking if Rei was serious.

"Don't judge me," Rei said, crossing his arms and pinning his two Pokémon with a glare. "Wouldn't you want someone to do the same thing for me?"

Ace and Blaze exchanged glances before they nodded.

"Ty."

"Samu."

"Good." Rei moved to Volo's legs, grabbing them. "Blaze, help me put him on Ace's back. Carefully."

"Phlo." Blaze nodded, picking Volo up under the arms.

Together, Rei and Blaze set Volo on Ace's back, positioning him so he wouldn't slide off.

"Blaze, carry Sigilyph."

Blaze approached Sigilyph, hesitant. When it didn't move, he picked it up around the waist.

Looking between Ace and Blaze to make sure that they were ready to go, Rei took in a deep breath.

Hopefully, he could get Volo back to his house without attracting unwanted attention.

Chapter Text

By the time Rei returned to the village, night had fallen. The stars and waning gibbous moon were the only witnesses to Rei's return.

Walking from the Coastlands back to Jubilife on foot took a lot longer than when he was riding on Wyrdeer's back. It took even longer when the sun set and nocturnal Pokémon became active; Rei did not want to fight off Murkrow and Golbat attempting to take advantage of Volo's state. He avoided the main paths where those Pokémon were likely to gather, using back roads which made the trek back to Jubilife take longer than normal.

The village gates were shut, so Rei went around to the hills that rose northwest of Jubilife. The hills were low enough that Rei could slide down them, holding onto Volo and Ace.

It was silent in the village. The only sign of anyone living there were the flickering flames in lanterns hanging from the eaves of homes. In the distance, Ida's Chimecho gently chimed in the breeze.

After going around the side of his house to reach the front, Rei immediately froze and held up a hand to stop Blaze and Ace.

Sitting in his chair by his wagon was Ginter, arms resting on his legs. Curled around his feet was his Luxray, Chrono.

Rei was certain that Ginter wouldn't go around raising a fuss about Volo since the two seemed close, but he didn't want to risk being wrong.

Chrono raised her head, staring at Rei, eyes bright in the darkness.

Ginter didn't seem to notice her movement and as Rei continued watching him, he could see that Ginter seemed more slumped than usual.

He was sleeping in his chair.

Heaving a sigh of relief, Rei motioned for Blaze and Ace to continue.

Chrono watched them for several moments before dropping her head on her paws.

Rei slid open the door to his house. Darkness greeted them. During his time in the Coastlands, the hearth had gone out.

“Blaze?” Rei asked, looking at the Typhlosion standing to his right.

“Typhlo.” Blaze spat a small ball of fire at the hearth. The flames hit the brittle wood, sparking before fizzling. Blaze tried again with a larger ball of flames and this time they caught, a small flickering fire illuminating the house.

Rei realized that there was one problem: his place wasn't large enough to hold two fully evolved Pokémon, a Sigilyph, Volo, and himself. Fitting them through the doorway wasn't plausible. He did have one solution, even though she probably wouldn't like it.

Taking out Aurora's Poké Ball, Rei released the Ralts.

Aurora stretched her arms above her head before rubbing her eyes.

"Sorry if I woke you, but I need you to do a favor for me."

"Raa?" Aurora tilted her head.

"Do you think you could use your psychic powers to carry Volo and Sigilyph inside?"

Aurora didn't know the move Psychic, but all psychic Pokémon had a limited amount of psychic ability that they could use. The power allowed them to send out a distress call or to throw a clan leader into a lake because he called her cute.

Aurora looked at Volo lying on Ace's back before she looked away. "Ralts."

"Oh, come on. You can't still hold a grudge against him."

"Ra Ralts Ral!" Aurora threw up her hands before stomping a foot and crossing her arms. "Ralts."

Aurora didn't technically hold a grudge against Volo because of something he did. She held a grudge against Volo's Gible who had beaten her in their battle in the Solaceon Ruins. Rei imagined any fairy type would hold a grudge against a dragon type that beat them. Aurora was different in that respect as she extended her grudge to Gible's owner, Volo. That grudge was probably why she knocked out Garchomp in one blow.

"Aurora, please." Rei set a hand on Aurora's helmet so she could absorb some of his emotions. "He needs help."

The horns on Aurora's helmet glowed briefly before she sulked. "Ralts..."

Raising a hand, Aurora wrapped a bit of psychic energy around Sigilyph, carrying the Pokémon inside and setting it by the corner of Rei's bedroom. She returned and did the same with Volo, dropping him on the futon.

Rei sighed at the rough treatment, returning Ace and Blaze to their Poké Balls. He stepped past the threshold and shut the door behind him. "Thank you, Aurora."

Aurora pouted at Rei as he returned her to her ball.

AC, DC, and Jules popped out of their homes, watching Rei lean a wooden rod against the back of the door frame, preventing anyone on the outside from opening the door.

"Back inside, you three," Rei said, stepping into his bedroom.

The three Rotom looked at each other before doing as they were commanded.

Kneeling by Volo, Rei began to inspect him, searching for injuries. With the blood staining his Arceus outfit, it was hard to tell.

Standing, Rei went to his sink and grabbed a paring knife before returning to Volo. He carefully sliced through the shirt so he could get it off easier. It was destroyed anyway, so there wasn't any point in trying to salvage it.

Rei would find some clothes that could potentially fit Volo later.

With Volo's chest exposed, Rei spotted a patch of faint burn marks on his left side, but they were minor enough that only burn salve and a bandage would be needed to help it heal.

Three claw marks cut into his upper left arm and lower right leg. The slashes tore the yellow bands wrapping around Volo's leg. The injuries were dry and covered in a thin layer of rocks and dirt.

Rei would have to wash the wounds and stitch them to prevent infection if it hadn't already set in.

Volo's hair was a mess of dirt, dried blood, and tangles. Rei would figure that out later.

Carefully rolling Volo onto his side, Rei made sure he wasn't missing any injuries that could become infected down the line.

Three claw marks ran diagonally down Volo's back, from his right shoulder to the side of his chest.

Rei stared at the marks, frowning. Had Volo tried to run away from whatever had attacked him and his team?

All things considered, at least he didn't have any broken bones. Those were something Rei didn't feel comfortable with healing. Still, he didn't have the necessary supplies in his house to take care of Volo's injuries. Rei would have to get them from Pesselle in Galaxy Hall.

He sighed, rubbing his face. Exhaustion was starting to set in, but he had to focus on getting Volo's injuries cleaned, stitched, and bandaged before he could even think of going to sleep. Hopefully, Galaxy Hall would be empty at this time of night.

Leaving his house, Rei walked past the still sleeping Ginter and towards Galaxy Hall.

Beauregard stood at his usual post by the stairs though he was sleeping standing on his feet. Beside him, his shiny Dustox Beauticia hovered, alert. Upon seeing Rei, she flapped her wings.

"Dust Dustox!" Beauticia greeted.

Rei raised a hand in response as he climbed the stairs and opened the door. He looked around it, making sure no one was nearby. Rei did not feel like being cornered and bombarded with questions.

The hallway inside was empty, with sconces on the walls providing the only source of light. From the threshold, Rei had a clear view into Cyllene's office where she was still awake, completing paperwork by candlelight. Cyllene had a habit of working late to complete her seemingly never-ending pile of paperwork. She had once told Rei that paperwork was her battleground.

Slipping into the hall, Rei shut the door behind him then trotted to the infirmary. Thankfully the door between it and Cyllene's office was shut.

Inside, Pesselle was still awake. Sitting at a desk, she had several phials in front of her, all filled with different colored liquids. A beaker was in the middle, filled partway with a dark purple liquid. Croagunk crouched beside Pesselle and watched what she was doing with rapt attention, croaking quietly.

Rei knocked on the side of the door to get Pesselle's attention.

She startled at the noise, looking over her shoulder. When she saw it was just Rei standing at the threshold, she relaxed.

Pesselle pushed her chair back and walked towards him. "Young Rei. It's been a while since I've seen you. Is there something you need?"

Rei knew why he was there–bandages, stitch kit, and salves–but curiosity about Pesselle's actions gripped him tighter. "What were you doing?"

"Oh, all that?" Pesslle glanced back at her desk.

Croagunk was peeking over the edge, staring at the phials in interest.

"I was just seeing if I could make more antidotes with different poisons."

Rei tilted his head, interested in Pesselle's explanation. He had always been fascinated by her intense passion for helping others in unorthodox ways.

Rei knew she wasn't really one to boast about her experiments, especially since she seemed to get skeptical looks. He didn't understand why when her theories and suggestions seemed to be making great strides in the Hisuian medical field. She was the one who showed others how to use a Luxray's specialized vision in order to properly reset a broken bone and how Sleep Powder could be mixed with Stun Spore to create a numbing anesthesia that could help in minor surgeries, after all.

"Well..." Pesslle twirled a strand of hair around her finger. "I was thinking that different antidotes could be made to target specific poisons. Like, if someone was poisoned by a Drapion or Qwilfish then we could use an antidote with their poison. Croagunk's poison is potent as an antidote on its own, but it seems like we need multiple doses to cure those afflicted by another Pokémon's poison."

"I see."

It was an interesting experiment. Poison type Pokémon did all have different strains of poison.

"Anyway, is there something you need from me?" Pesselle asked.

Right. Rei was there for a reason.

"Can I have the stitch kit, bandages, antibiotic cream, and some burn salve?"

"Hm." Pesslle tapped her cheek before walking to the medicine cabinet, opening the door to make sure there was enough supplies to spare. "Quite the list. You don't look injured. A Pokémon?"

That reminded Rei that he also had to help with Sigilyph's injuries.

"Can I also have an Oran berry if you have one to spare?"

Pesselle chuckled as she gathered the items Rei requested. "You can have two."

After grabbing what Rei needed, Pesselle handed him the supplies. "I hope the Pokémon gets better."

"Thank you." Rei nodded then left the infirmary so Pesselle could get back to her antidote mixing.

He paused outside of Cyllene's office when he heard lowered voices.

"Come on, you need your sleep."

Laventon's voice was gentle as it always was when he attempted to coax Cyllene into getting proper sleep.

"I just need to finish this one..."

"It's not going to go anywhere while you sleep."

The gentle coaxing seemed to work as Cyllene's chair scraped against the floor.

"I suppose a few hours of rest can't hurt."

"Excellent!"

Rei could hear the beaming smile in Laventon's voice.

Shaking his head, Rei walked to the door so he could return home and start helping Volo's injuries.

"Rei...?"

Rei jumped at the voice and turned around to see Akari standing on the stairs to the second floor.

She looked like she had woken from sleep, wearing a loose pale kimono with blue stripes scattered along the front and sleeves. Her hair was down from its usual bandana.

Pikachu wasn't on her shoulder. He was probably still sleeping in her bed.

A bright smile crossed Akari's face as she started walking down the stairs.

"Rei, you're back." Akari descended the last three steps and began to approach Rei. "Where did you go? What's all that for?"

Rei backed up as Akari came closer, beginning to feel like a cornered Glameow. Holding the medical supplies in one arm, Rei fumbled for the doorknob. When he grabbed it, he opened the door and took off.

"Wait, Rei!" Akari called.

Rei bolted to his house, opening the door and setting up the barricade once he was inside. He took a moment to catch his breath, listening for signs that Akari had followed him.

When he didn't hear her, Rei sighed, leaning against the wall.

He couldn't exactly tell Akari that the supplies were for Volo. Even if he had told her to keep it quiet, Rei was certain she'd confide in Laventon or Cyllene and if Cyllene heard, she was bound to tell Kamado.

Rei already knew how Kamado acted during the Red Sky Days and he did not want to know how Kamado would react to having the actual instigator of the Red Sky in the village.

Inside his room, Sigilyph was awake, hovering a few inches above the floor. It stared at Rei as he came closer.

"Here." Rei set the two Oran berries in front of Sigilyph. "They'll help you heal faster."

Sigilyph stared at the offered berries for several seconds before returning its gaze to Rei, blinking once.

Sigilyph's silence was a tad unnerving, so Rei decided to focus on helping Volo's injuries. The first order of business was to clean off all the dirt and blood so Rei could work on stitching and covering the gashes.

Grabbing a small bucket from the kitchen, Rei had DC fill it with cold water and Jules carefully warm it up. With that and a washcloth, Rei kneeled by Volo to start cleaning him. A lot of the blood didn't seem to be his.

"Hm?" Rei stopped cleaning Volo's neck, staring at the stubborn ring of red that wasn't washing out.

Upon closer inspection, the red had angles to it, like a gem. The gems looked familiar. They reminded Rei of the Red Chain he had gotten from the Lake Trio to bind Dialga.

Rei touched the gems and found they wrapped around Volo's neck like a choker, seeming to fuse with his skin. The surface of the gems were warm, reminding Rei of when he held the shattered pieces of Red Chain as he, Adaman, and Akari searched for the ingredients to craft the Origin Ball required to contain Palkia.

These things couldn't be the same as the Red Chain.

Shaking his head, Rei told himself it wasn't the time to focus on the strange necklace. He still had wounds to clean and bandage.

Rei continued working on cleaning the dried mud and blood off Volo. After cleaning the cuts on his arm and leg, Rei stitched them, applied antibiotic cream, and bandaged them. He did the same thing with the marks on Volo's back and covered the burn on his chest with a bandage once burn salve had been applied.

During the cleaning, Rei came across similar red chains around Volo's wrists. They had also been covered by mud and blood, hiding them from immediate view.

"There..." Rei sat back after he covered Volo with one of his larger kimono. It barely fit but it was good enough for now.

The stitching and bandaging weren't the best jobs in the world (Pesselle would have done better), but Rei was confident he knew enough from healing his own injuries that Volo would come out of the process with a few scars.

With Volo still unconscious, Rei couldn't exactly feed him an herb mixture to help the fever. Instead, he set a cold wet cloth on his forehead to help lower it. If the fever got worse or the injuries looked like they were becoming infected, Rei would get Pesselle as a last resort.

"Do you think I'm doing the right thing?" Rei asked, looking at Sigilyph who still hovered in the corner. "Helping him like this?"

Sigilyph didn't respond, staring at him.

Rei sighed. He didn't know what else he expected.

Standing, Rei stretched his aching legs then grabbed a spare futon from the corner. After spreading it out, he dropped onto it and flopped on his back.

Rei stared at the ceiling for several moments before he closed his eyes, letting the exhaustion settle on him like a cozy blanket.

All around him was inky blackness. The darkness surrounding him felt heavy, a weight clinging to his shoulders. If he focused too hard, it felt as if the shadows were digging talons into his shoulders, rooting him.

He shook off the claws and took a step forward. The sound reverberated everywhere like a tolling bell.

"Hello?"

His voice echoed back at him and it didn't sound right.

Nine red eyes blinked open in the darkness, surrounding him on all sides. No, they weren't eyes. What were they?

The orbs bobbed closer, hemming him in. They seemed to blur like flickering flames in the wind.

Fear raced through his veins, turning his blood to ice. A strangled breath escaped him as he turned and ran.

Red chains emerged from the floor, wrapping around his wrists and neck. They tightened, an Onix coiling around its prey, biting into his skin. Choking him.

He pulled against the chains, resisting them as they began retracting into the floor, forcing him to his knees.

His chest constricted, his heart banging against his ribs.

The nine red orbs hovered nearby, silently watching him. Judging him.

"Why are you doing this?"

Behind the orbs, a glowing light flickered into existence. Its form shifted and four spears jutted out. Two crescents connected to the spears on either side, creating a disjointed wheel.

That symbol...why did it make him angry, bitter, and sad all at once?

A searing pain in his back startled him awake.

With a grimace, he turned on his side in an effort to abate the pain, supporting himself on his elbow. He couldn't remember what he had been dreaming about, but he knew his name was Volo.

He didn't know where he was, though.

The room he was in was small. Pictures of Pokémon and people hung on the wall. A pile of shells and sticks lay on the windowsill. Leaning against the wall was a full-length mirror and Volo caught his reflection in it.

His hair was tangled, smeared with dried blood and dirt. The weight of it hanging down his back was heavy. For some reason, the clothes on him felt wrong; like he hadn't been wearing them before he woke up.

Glancing down, Volo grabbed the front of the kimono he was wearing. It was pale blue with white Vulpix faces printed on it. The kimono was a little small, pulling at his shoulders and riding up his arms. Was it his?

A concerned noise came from Volo's left and a Sigilyph fluttered into view, staring at him.

That Sigilyph...

A sensation of being attacked by something, the creeping fear entwining his heart, washed over Volo. The Sigilyph had appeared out of nowhere, swooping in to protect him from a killing blow.

"Oh, I think I remember you." Volo raised a hand and the Sigilyph bumped its head into his palm. "You helped me."

Sigilyph trilled quietly.

"You're awake?"

Volo startled at the voice, spotting a form kneeling by a hearth in the room across from him.

He was no older than sixteen, wearing a sleeveless black shirt and torn shorts. Bandages wrapped around his chest. A silver stone pierced the teen's left ear and a necklace of smooth blue stones with small fangs hung around his neck. His shoulder-length dark hair looked like it hadn't been washed in a while, tangles giving him a feral look.

"I didn't think you'd be up so fast," the teen said. "You've been out two days with a fever. I guess it finally broke."

He turned back to the pot hanging over the hearth, stirring whatever was inside it.

"I was making lunch. I don't know if you're hungry, but this should be light enough for you to eat."

Volo pushed himself into a sitting position as the teen came closer with a bowl of soup in one hand and a cup of tea in the other.

He kneeled in front of Volo, holding the bowl and cup towards him.

"Leek soup and green tea with some Combee honey. I also got some potato mochi, though I'm not sure you should be trying that out quite yet."

Volo stared at the offered food for several moments. The soup smelled sweet and earthy. His mouth watered slightly at the aroma. Part of him wanted to reach out and take the food but another part of him was hesitant.

Volo stared at the teen, tilting his head. "I'm sorry, but who are you again?"

Rei blinked at the question before he instantly became suspicious.

Was Volo purposely feigning ignorance? Was there going to be a 'hah! gotcha!' from him?

Volo's expression was lost, confused, and a little pathetic. It was as if he were a Growlithe and Rei had kicked him for existing.

The longer the silence stretched between them, the more Rei became aware that Volo was likely not trying to play a prank on him. Volo actually didn't know who he was.

What the fuck.

Chapter Text

Had he missed a head injury somehow? No, he would have noticed it by then.

Volo continued to stare at Rei, eyebrows furrowed, as if staring long enough would give his memories back.

"You don't know who I am?" Rei asked, carefully keeping his expression neutral.

If Volo saw that he knew who Volo was, Rei had no doubt the ex-merchant would bombard him with questions he wasn't sure Volo wanted the answer to.

After staring a few moments longer, Volo shook his head. "Should I?"

Rei frowned, considering his next moves.

Volo was still injured and it would take a while for him to heal, leaving Volo's health and protection in Rei's hands. Being amnesiac didn't automatically absolve Volo of the crimes he committed. Rei doubted anyone who wanted justice after the Frenzied Nobles and Red Sky Incident would care about Volo's physical or mental state.

Maybe I can bring Cogita into this? Rei thought.

Rei still wasn't sure what exactly the relationship was between her and Volo, whether they were blood family or she took him in because his parents died. Her reaction to Volo's attempt at controlling Arceus had been negative, so Rei decided she probably wasn't going to be eager to watch him.

Volo looked down at his clothes, pushing the sleeves back to stare at the fresh bandages covering his arm. A strange expression crossed his face when he saw the bowl of bloody water and discarded bandages in the corner that Rei had left in the corner of the room from earlier in the day after changing Volo's bandages.

Whatever was going through his head transferred to Sigilyph who released an agitated screech, flapping its wings.

"Were you the one...?"

Rei could tell that whatever Volo was thinking--probably that Rei hurt him, felt guilty, and healed him--was making Volo agitated which made Sigilyph more distressed.

No psychic energy rippled off Sigilyph and it settled for glaring venom at Rei, hovering close to Volo.

Volo was getting the wrong idea and Rei did not want to make it worse.

"Okay, okay." Rei set down the food, pushing it closer to Volo. "I'm going to go out for a bit and let you calm down. You stay right here, okay?"

Standing, Rei went to the door and slipped on his shoes. He removed the barrier and set it against the wall.

No one entered another's house without permission, so Rei didn't have to ask AC or the other Rotom to set the barrier in place as he left.

Rei stepped outside and slid the door closed behind him. A few of the shops were shuttered for lunch and Wallflower was busy. Several people were eating lunch on the bench outside, chatting amongst each other, while others ate at the little tables inside.

Part of Rei was tempted to sneak out the back way to avoid all the people, but he needed others to see him to lessen the chance of someone knocking on his door to see if he was home. It wouldn't be great if Volo answered the knock.

"Hey, Rei!" Ress greeted, smiling brightly as Rei approached. "Haven't seen you in a while."

"I've been busy," Rei responded, walking past Ress.

It wasn't technically a lie, but not the entire truth either.

"Oh, wait!" Ress called. "Adaman's been wanting to talk to you--"

"I'll be back later."

"Oh." Ress' shoulder slumped. Rei didn't seem to be in the mood to listen. "I'll just tell him to wait for you then."

Outside the village, halfway between the Fieldlands Camp and Jubilife, Rei whistled for Wyrdeer.

Moments later, Wyrdeer trotted up. Upon seeing Rei, Wyrdeer perked up.

Rei chuckled when Wyrdeer bumped their heads together. He rubbed Wyrdeer's neck. "I'm glad to see you too."

Wyrdeer stared at Rei with a slight pout, snorting.

"I'm fine. Better, I guess."

Wyrdeer appeared satisfied with the answer, stepping back and kneeling on the ground.

Rei wasn't even sure where he wanted to go. He had just wanted to give Volo some space, but now that he was out, he wanted answers.

The red chains around Volo's wrists and neck bothered Rei. They couldn't be related to the Lake Trio. The chain was only meant to bind the Pokémon that emerged from the Rift atop Mt. Coronet and it had snapped only for the pieces to be forged into the Origin Ball.

Volo's amnesia was also troubling. While Rei could believe it was a result of the trauma he had endured from whatever had attacked him and his team at Turnback Cave, surely that didn't mean Volo would lose all of his memories.

All of the questions Rei held led back to the Lake Trio. While he could go to the closest lake--Lake Verity--and ask Mesprit, Rei knew that he would get the straightest answer from Uxie.

Lake Acuity it was.

Rei climbed into Wyrdeer's saddle. "Lake Acuity."

Wyrdeer clambered to his feet then galloped towards Alabaster Icelands.

The Icelands were still freezing, wind and snow biting at any exposed skin, and Snowpoint Temple loomed in the distance, towering over the Pearl Clan's little hamlet.

Buneary and Aipom scattered as Wyrdeer cantered past.

Standing on a ledge of ice jutting from the ground, a Zoroark howled. It leaped from its perch moments later and raced off.

The Zoroark was sprinting towards a limping Lucario in the distance. Three small Riolu trailed behind it.

"Wyrdeer, come on!" Rei yelled, yanking Wyrdeer's reigns to change his course.

The moment Wyrdeer saw what Rei wanted to do, he snorted and reared on his hind legs. Psychic energy covered his body when he dropped down. Wyrdeer tossed his head then cantered, the energy boosting his speed.

Lucario's ears twitched when it heard the approaching Zoroark. It turned towards the Zoroark, ushering the Riolu behind its legs. Ears pinned back and baring its teeth, Lucario snarled.

Snickering, Zoroark's body wavered before splitting into several more Zoroark, surrounding Lucario and its pups.

Lucario glanced at the Zoroark, appendages hanging from the back of its head vibrating as it began scoping out the real Zoroark.

Zoroark tackled Lucario from the side, pinning it to the ground. Zoroark's lips peeled back as it opened its jaws, lunging towards Lucario’s neck.

"Dark Pulse, Wisp!"

Zoroark screeched as dark energy blasted it off Lucario and sent it skidding across the snowy ground.

The copies of Zoroark surrounding the cowering Riolu vanished.

Shaking its head, Zorark snarled as it stumbled back to its feet, glaring at Rei.

Wyrdeer skidded to a stop in front of the Riolu as Rei jumped from his saddle.

Wisp glowered at Zoroark, form rippling.

"Go get your meal somewhere else!"

For several moments, Zoroark didn't move and Rei expected a battle. Then Zoroark growled, baring its teeth as it slunk backward then disappeared in a wisp of ghostly energy.

Rei sighed, relaxing his stance. "Good job, Wisp."

Wisp flickered with a small, whistling moan as Rei returned to them to their Poké Ball.

Rei turned to see the three Riolu surrounding Lucario as it shakily got to its feet.

"Lucar. Car." Lucario patted the Riolu to show them it was fine then stared at Rei.

Rei did not approach and remained a respectful distance from Lucario.

Lucario's ears flicked before it set a paw against its chest and inclined its head.

Rei returned the gesture and Wyrdeer bowed his head.

"Car." Lucario turned and limped away, the Riolu following behind it.

The direction Lucario and its pups were heading was towards the hot spring, possibly to help its injured leg.

Rei had only seen the bow gesture once before with Volo's Lucario. He had bowed at Rei after a battle between him and Ace ended up in a tie. After asking Volo what the gesture meant, Volo had admitted he didn't know but thought it was perhaps a sign of respect. Lucario rarely gave it and it was a good rule of thumb that if a Lucario did bow to return it so as not to offend them.

Lucario had been thanking Rei for his assistance in protecting its pups.

Normally, Rei was the type to let nature take its course, but the Zoroark didn't have a Zorua pup by its side and was alone rather than in a pack. There was no way it could eat a Lucario and three Riolu by itself. There was bound to be waste.

Rei did not like Pokémon or humans that killed for pleasure.

Wyrdeer bumped into Rei's shoulder with a soft snort, shaking him out of his thoughts.

"Right."

Some days, Rei could see the benefit of Volo’s thinking. Perhaps the world did need a cleanse, a new slate. Would that new world take away the strife of living? Erase those who brought suffering to others? Rei wasn't so sure about that. Humans would always be humans; greedy and selfish and weak. Pokémon would always be Pokémon; fighting for survival against themselves and humans who feared and abused them. A new world wouldn't change base instincts.

Shaking his head, Rei climbed into Wyrdeer's saddle and continued his trek towards Lake Acuity.

Several Rufflet perched in a barren tree, watching Rei with beady eyes as Rei and Wyrdeer approached the lake. A Sneasel was digging into the ground, searching for something.

Wyrdeer slowed to a stop by the lake's shore and Rei slid down from the saddle. He saw someone standing by the lake's shore.

"Sabi?" Rei approached the young Warden. "What are you doing here?"

"I saw you were coming, so I decided to wait." Sabi smiled, holding her hands behind her back. "See, even Lord Basculegion is waiting."

From beneath the cold surface of the lake, Basculegion emerged, expression sour.

Rei wasn't sure what Basculegion was upset about. Waiting for so long in the cold waters? The water shouldn't bother him with his ghost typing.

"Thanks."

Sabi rocked on her heels, watching Rei get into the saddle on Basculegion's back. "Soooo....how's Volo?"

Rei snapped his head towards Sabi who was smiling innocently. He almost wondered how she knew about Volo, but then remembered she claimed to be clairvoyant.

Rei didn't doubt her claims like a lot of people; he had seen some of her visions come true, which could have been mere coincidence. Fate was just chance, after all.

"He's fine." Rei looked away from Sabi. Sometimes staring at her too long made it feel like she was staring into his soul. "He woke up today."

"I'm glad he survived." Sabi ran her gloved hand through her braid. "There's a lot in store for him."

Rei was about to tap Basculegion so they could swim to Acuity Cave, but he stopped as a question popped into his head.

"Hey, Sabi, can I ask you something?"

Sabi tilted her head with a curious hum.

"The spring in the Coastlands. What do you know about it?"

"The one with Turnback Cave?" Sabi rested her chin in her hand, staring at the ground. "I know Iscan hates it a lot. He says it gives him the creeps."

That was fair enough since it was Giratina's hideout and Iscan was terrified of ghost types.

"Palina said the Pearl Clan believes that cave is where the deceased go to journey to the afterlife."

"I see." Rei stared at the still water of the lake. The only ripples disrupting the calm surface spread out from Basculegion with the rising and falling of his chest.

Part of Rei had considered that Volo had been inside Turnback cave to try and lure Giratina back to his side, but now he wasn't so sure. If the Pearl Clan believed it was somehow a barrier between their world and the afterlife, then perhaps Volo knew that as well with his vast knowledge of Hisui.

Rei shook his head to get the thought out of his brain. He did not want to continue thinking about the implication of why Volo had been there.

"Thanks for your help, Sabi." Rei lightly tapped Basculegion's side with his heel.

Basculegion flicked his tail, swimming towards Acuity Cave.

"Good luck!" Sabi called, waving her arm above her head.

Basculegion turned to the side as he slowed to a stop at the shore to the cave.

Rei pulled himself out of the saddle, being careful not to let his feet touch the water.

Basculegion was good about making certain his passenger didn't get wet if he could help it.

Rei kneeled by Basculegion, setting a hand on the Lord's slimy forehead. "Do you mind staying out here?"

Basculegion shook his head. "Sculegion. Bascu."

"I'll try not to be long." Rei stood and entered the cave.

Inside, it looked the same as always. Uxie's psychic energy hung in the air, fresh and rippling slightly.

"Uxie, come out!"

For several moments, nothing happened. Then Uxie appeared before Rei, hovering in front of him.

Young Rei, Uxie said, calm as always. What do I owe the pleasure?

"Drop the formalities. What did you do to Volo?"

Uxie tilted their head. The Defiler? You already have the answer, do you not?

Rei clenched his hands and gritted his teeth, anger sparking through his veins.

So Uxie had erased Volo’s memories. If Uxie had done something to Volo, then that meant Mesprit and Azelf did as well. The three never did things by themselves.

"What did Azelf and Mesprit do?"

Uxie remained quiet for a while, tails flicking as they continued to stare at Rei.

Mesprit attached the Red Chain to him.

Those chains were the same Red Chain used to bind Dialga. If the Chain restricted and kept Dialga calm enough to capture them, what did the Chain do when attached to a human?

"What does it do?"

Why don't you ask Mesprit? Uxie leaned back in the air. The energy around them sparked with indifference. They're always doing something with emotions.

Of course Rei couldn't ask Uxie to understand a thing about emotions or willpower. They were just one third of a whole.

Other than being fused with his skin, the Red Chain didn't seem to be causing Volo pain.

Taking a deep breath in order to calm his rising emotions, Rei asked, "What about Azelf?"

They gave the Defiler's Pokémon a chance to leave him. Uxie shook their head, emitting a disappointed noise. They refused. Such loyalty to someone like him. Baffling.

A sliver of dread raced up Rei's spine.

Had the Lake Trio been the ones to slaughter Volo's Pokémon? It made sense. Minor Almighty and Almighty Pokémon had more energy, allowing a wider pool of moves to be used. Much more than a regular, run of the mill Pokémon like a Togekiss or Garchomp.

"Are you telling me that you three killed his Pokémon because they refused to abandon him?"

A flickering flame of anger was beginning to burn in the pit of Rei's stomach.

"Is that why Volo got hurt?"

Had Volo tried to protect his Pokémon from the Lake Trio? Had he tried to leave only to have them lash out at him?

Lord Arceus ordered us to punish the Defiler for his transgressions, Uxie said. We used our judgment on how to punish him.

"He could have died."

Uxie remained silent for several moments before saying, Having him perish wasn't our intent, but if he had, then it would be the Will of Arceus.

Something in Rei snapped. He grabbed Blaze's Poké Ball and tossed it up.

"Infernal Parade!"

Blaze roared as he was released, magenta flames ringing his neck flaring up before fading to a bright blue. Balls of flames shot towards Uxie, coated in ghostly energy.

Uxie raised their hand. Light Screen appeared in front of them and the flames bounced off, dissipating into steam.

Blaze snarled, taking a step towards Uxie. Azure flames flickered at the corners of his mouth.

Uxie dropped their hand and the Light Screen vanished. They tilted their head.

I don't understand. Why are you vexed at me? Surely you would have been happy without the Defiler's existence.

"You took away his memories!" Rei snarled. "His Pokémon!"

Blaze's muzzle peeled back, exposing his fangs, waiting for an order to tear into Uxie. The flames on the back of his neck burned brighter.

Uxie's expression changed to confusion. He tried to take everything from you.

"And he failed! Because Arceus took everything from me!" Rei glared at Uxie, focusing his rage towards the Lake Guardian rather than the sensation of hot tears pricking at the corners of his eyes. He took a deep, shaky breath. "I guess that's another thing Arceus feels inclined to take. Humans are just a means to an end to them."

I do not understand why you are so emotional over the Defiler.

Rei swallowed around the tightness in his throat, closing his eyes. "No, I suppose you wouldn't."

He turned and walked out of the cave.

Blaze watched him leave before he growled at Uxie, spitting a flame at the ground before following Rei.

Outside, Rei inhaled the frozen air of the Icelands, letting it extinguish the fire inside him. He had gotten his answers, yet he didn't feel satisfied.

Arceus had ordered the Lake Guardians to punish Volo, possibly intending Volo's death. Volo had survived only because Rei had been at the right place at the right time. Fate, one would say.

Rei didn't know what the Red Chains did and he did not want to bother asking Mesprit about them. He was too drained emotionally to be led around by the sprite's mischievous attitude and cryptic words.

"Tyyy..." Blaze dropped his chin on Rei's shoulder, licking his cheek.

Rei reached up to rub Blaze's ear, staring at the cloudy sky that teased snow. "I guess we should head back."

"Ty."

Rei returned Blaze to his Poké Ball then got onto Basculegion's saddle.

The Lord turned and swam back to the lake's opposite shore.

Sabi was still waiting by the shore alongside Wyrdeer.

Wyrdeer was pawing at the ground to uncover hidden green grass, ripping the tasty blades from the ground to chew on.

"Are you doing okay?" Sabi asked as Rei got off Bscluegion.

Basculegion grumbled, sinking beneath the water to return to his den in the far warmer waters of the Coastlands.

"Yeah, I'm fine," Rei said, giving a faint smile.

Even as Rei tried to convince himself he was fine, the words felt like a lie.

"I should get back." Rei went to Wyrdeer, climbing into the saddle.

Sabi nodded in understanding. "All right. Say hi to Adaman for me."

Wyrdeer broke into a canter, making his way back towards Jubilife.

Rei stopped Wyrdeer just outside of the gates, sliding down from the saddle. He patted Wyrdeer's neck in thanks then walked into the village.

He didn't know what to do. Even with the slim answers he had gotten from Uxie--what had happened to Volo's team, why he had no memories, and the Red Chains around his neck and wrists--it still left Rei taking care of Volo until he was well enough to travel.

What then? Rei couldn't really stash Volo in a remote corner of Hisui. That wasn't fair to him. Everyone, though, was out for Volo in one way or another for his role in the Frenzies, rifts, and Red Sky. Even if they were just rumors, people wanted to have a physical being to pin the blame on and Volo was in a vulnerable state, making an easy target for their aggression.

Rei ran a hand down his face with a groan. For now, what he could do was continue to take care of Volo until he was better. Rei would figure out the next step at a later date.

Rei stumbled to a stop when he spotted someone standing in front of his house, knocking on his door. Sitting by his feet were three Eeveelutions, watching their owner.

Shit. What was Adaman doing there?

Rei wasn't sure if the rumors had reached the clans yet and he did not have the energy to find out if they had. If Adaman found out Rei was hiding Volo in his house, it was not going to end well.

He needed to get into his house so he could get Adaman to leave. The only way was through the window in his bedroom.

As Rei was about to dart between the houses so he could get behind them, Adaman spotted him.

"Rei, there you are!"

Shit!

"Ah, hey, Adaman." Rei walked closer to Adaman. "What are you doing here?"

"I came to see how you were doing, but I guess you're doing better since you're out of your house."

"Y-yeah, I'm doing fine. Better."

Adaman hummed, expression turning doubtful as he folded his arms over his chest. "I learned you had returned from Sinnoh Temple kind of down."

"I guess." Rei shrugged.

"I went up there with Warden Ingo a few days ago."

Rei tensed before he hunched his shoulders, avoiding eye contact with Adaman. "You did?"

He hadn't really wanted anyone to see his tantrum atop Mt. Coronet.

"You left this there." Adaman held out the Celestica Flute. "I figured you would want it back."

"Oh." Rei took the offered flute, gripping it in his hands. "Thanks."

Adaman's expression softened. "We're all worried about you, Rei."

"I'm fine, really," Rei muttered, keeping his gaze anywhere but at Adaman. "I just need a bit more time to myself."

"Akari is especially worried about you."

Adaman knew right where to hit where it hurt.

Akari was important to Rei. She was the first friend he had in Hisui. The one who made his heart ache and the one who made Hisui feel like home.

Guilt gnawed deep into his bones, but Rei couldn't just abandon Volo and risk others finding out where he was. If it meant pushing others away until he could find a safe place for Volo, then so be it.

"I'm sorry," Rei said, his voice cracking slightly. "I really am, but I just need more time alone."

Adaman closed his eyes as he nodded. "I see."

Silence stretched between them and Rei wondered if that was enough to get Adaman to leave.

Adaman stared at Rei for several more moments before he turned and grabbed the door to Rei's house.

Rei gasped, dropping the Celestica Flute as Adaman began to open the door.

"Adaman, wait!"

Thyme, Eon, and Tempo all slipped between Adaman's legs and the doorframe, sneaking inside.

"You can't go inside!" Rei grabbed Adaman around the waist, using all of his strength to try and stop Adaman from entering his house.

"Why not?!" Adaman didn't seem fazed by Rei's additional weight clinging to him, stepping past the threshold. "What are you hiding?"

Adaman staggered to a stop when he saw Volo sitting in the bedroom, Sigilyph hovering beside him.

Thyme, Eon, and Tempo all surrounded him. Thyme and the other two were curiously sniffing Volo. Eon and Tempo occasionally gave growling hisses at whatever they smelled. Eon's tail bristled.

Rei released Adaman so he could shut the door, replacing the barrier. It was already bad enough Adaman had barged in; he didn't need anyone else to do the same.

"Wh--" Adaman pointed at Volo who was staring at the Eeveelutions in confusion.

Volo held out his hand to Thyme and Thyme sniffed it. When Thyme dipped his head, Volo cautiously rubbed it.

Thyme wagged his tail at the attention.

Eon and Tempo bullied their way onto Volo's lap, demanding their own attention.

Rei slipped around Adaman, positioning himself between the clan leader and Volo, holding up his hands. "Don't freak out."

"I am doing the opposite of freaking out."

"You still look like you're freaking out."

Adaman smiled tightly, crossing his arms. "Rei, are you aware you're hiding a criminal in your house?" He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose as he held up a hand to stop Rei when he opened his mouth. "No, don't answer that. Of course you're aware."

Rei remained silent, waiting for Adaman to continue talking. He lowered his arms, satisfied Adaman wasn't going to try and attack Volo.

"Everyone knows the rumors. They know Volo's connection to the rifts and Frenzies. How he was the cause of the Red Sky Incident. They want justice."

"I know." Rei gripped his fingers, nails digging into the skin. "You don't understand."

Adaman sighed, staring at Rei. Obviously, taking care of Volo was important to him. "Help me understand then."

Rei looked at Adaman. The clan leader was willing to hear him out. Maybe it was for the best Adaman had found out rather than someone like Irida. Rei doubted Irida would have given him a chance to explain.

"I found him in Turnback Cave. He was hurt and his team was..." Rei glanced over his shoulder. He wasn't sure how much he wanted to say within earshot of Volo. "Well..."

Reaching into his pocket, Rei took out the tumblestone necklace he had taken off Garchomp.

Adaman stared at the necklace and his expression said all Rei needed to know. He knew the necklace was from Volo's Garchomp.

"I see." Adaman looked towards Volo. "Does he know?"

Volo was petting Thyme and his siblings, making sure each one got their fair share of attention. Volo grinned as he pet them, rubbing their bellies when they rolled over.

Despite everything, the three seemed fine around him.

"No." Rei shook his head. "He has amnesia. Uxie erased his memories."

Adaman blinked then looked at Rei sharply. "The Lake Guardians attacked him?"

"Arceus ordered them to punish him."

Adaman's eyebrows knit together as he crossed his arms, taking in everything Rei had said. He tapped a finger against his arm. "Rei, why were you in the Coastlands in the first place?"

Rei dropped his gaze to avoid Adaman's intense stare.

"Rei."

Rei hunched his shoulders, grabbing his right arm with his left hand.

Adaman sighed, kneeling and setting a hand on Rei's shoulder. "Don't think about doing that again, all right?"

I would have been fine, was Rei's first thought, but he said, "Okay."

No one knew about his Reset. No one would understand. No one could ever fathom the many deaths and resurrections he had faced, terrifying at first before fading to a dull monotony where death to Rei was laughable. All because Arceus hadn't wanted their tool to break too easily.

"Well." Adaman clapped Rei's shoulder once as he stood. "I suppose you were at the right place at the right time. Almighty Dialga must have aided you."

“I guess.”

Rei wasn't so sure if he believed what Adaman believed: that Dialga had prodded him to the Coastlands on that specific day at that specific time. Why would the Almighty want to help the one who had caused them to rage in the first place?

"So you've been taking care of him by yourself?"

Rei shook his head to clear his thoughts, focusing on Adaman. “For a few days. He woke up a while ago."

"I see." Adaman sighed, ruffling the back of his hair. "All right, I'll help you out."

Rei startled, staring at Adaman. "What?"

"Don't get me wrong. I mainly have selfish reasons for my offer. Amnesiac or not, I still don't trust Volo. Also, you need to come out of your house more often to show everyone that you're all right."

"Uh..."

"We can alternate between caring for Volo's injuries. That should give you enough opportunity to leave the house."

Rei blinked, opening his mouth to deny Adaman's offer before he sighed. Even if he said no, Adaman was stubborn and would do what he wanted anyway. With someone watching the house, it would limit someone coming in and discovering Volo while he was gone.

"Fine," Rei said. "I guess that's fair."

"Great." Adaman grinned then stepped around Rei so he could enter the bedroom.

Volo looked up at Adaman's approach, retracting his hands from Thyme and the others like they had burned him. "Are these your Pokémon?"

"They are." Adaman nodded then pointed to each one in turn. "That's Thyme, Eon, and Tempo."

"Are you his friend?" Volo looked past Adaman at Rei.

"Yeah. That's Rei." Adaman kneeled in front of Volo. “He's the one who helped your injuries.”

“Oh.” Volo glanced down at the bandages wrapped around his arm. “I didn't know.”

Adaman held out a hand. "I'm Adaman, leader of the Diamond Clan. You can just call me Adaman."

Volo stared at the offered hand before slowly reaching a hand towards Adaman.

Sigilyph butted its way between them, releasing a grating shriek as it glared at Adaman.

"Protective, aren't you?" Adaman muttered. He scooted back then held up his hands. "See? I'm not going to hurt him."

Sigilyph narrowed its eye more, keeping its position between them.

"That's a Sigilyph," Rei explained. "I found it with Volo."

"They're not native here, I can tell," Adaman said. "It doesn't seem to trust us much."

Rei nodded. "I think it will take a while to gain its full trust."

"I don't think they mean harm to us." Volo set a hand on Sigilyph's side. "They would have done so already."

Sigilyph's expression changed to something akin to a pout before it moved to the side.

"I'm Volo. That's Kai."

"Kai?" Adaman and Rei repeated.

"I thought of it while you were gone." Volo stared at Kai. "I think it means 'protector' or ‘guardian’. I'm not sure what language though."

"It's a good name," Adaman said with a smile. "Very fitting."

Volo glanced at Adaman then dropped his gaze, focusing on once again petting Thyme and his siblings.

Adaman let his gaze wander the room. He hadn't actually been in Rei's room before. Seashells and other trinkets littered the windowsill.

"Did you know that if you put the shells to your ears, you can hear the ocean?" Adaman asked, pointing to the shells.

Volo looked at the shells before he turned his gaze back to Eon who was nipping at Thyme for a turn at pets. "There's a scientific explanation for it."

Adaman smiled as Volo began to explain why the waves of the ocean could be heard in the shells. He had already heard the explanation from Volo months ago, but acted like it was new information.

Rei, who had been leaning against the wall to watch their interactions, pushed off it. "I should go get some more bandages."

"Oh, yeah, go ahead," Adaman said, waving a hand. "I'll stay here and keep Volo company."

"Thanks." Rei headed to the door, glancing over his shoulder.

Despite Kai glaring at him, Adaman had once again moved closer to Volo, sitting a few feet away.

"Want to know why my Eeveelutions are named the way they are?"

"They're time puns," Volo responded dryly, his attention still focused on petting Thyme and his siblings. The corner of his mouth twitched, like he was trying not to smile.

Adaman chuckled. "Nothing gets past you."

AC popped out of the fridge, staring at the scene in the bedroom before looking at Rei with a curious whirr.

"Make sure they don't get into a fight," Rei said, opening the front door.

AC grinned mischievously, ducking back into their home.

Rei headed to Galaxy Hall so he could grab more bandages and medicine from Pesselle. As soon as he closed the door, he bumped into someone.

Cyllene blinked, surprise briefly crossing her face before fading back to her neutral expression. Abra hovered by her side, tail flicking once. "Rei."

"Captain Cyllene." Rei inclined his head.

"I'm glad to see you out of your house." Cyllene crossed her hands behind her back, the papers she held crinkling. "I suspect Clan Leader Adaman finally knocked some sense into you?"

"Something like that." Rei gestured to the papers Cyllene held. "What are those for?"

"I was going to speak with Zisu on a new training regimen Warden Ingo recommended."

Rei tilted his head.

Sometimes, Cyllene liked to talk about what task she was working on and Rei had found she talked more than she let on when given the chance.

Cyllene's stance relaxed slightly. "Warden Ingo suggested something called a Double Battle. Each person uses two Pokémon in the battle or four people face off against each other, two on each side with one Pokémon each."

"Sounds interesting." Rei smiled. "Ingo does have some good ideas for the training grounds."

"They're unorthodox, but yes. Commander Kamado and I agree that these unusual battle styles can help us further understand our relationship with Pokémon."

"I shouldn't keep you then." Rei moved to the side so he could continue towards the infirmary.

Rei could feel Cyllene's gaze on his back.

"Come on, Abra,” Cyllene said. “We should try to get to Zisu before she goes on break."

"Abra," Abra said.

The door to Galaxy Hall opened then closed as the two left.

Pesslle grinned when Rei came into the infirmary. "Good afternoon, Rei! How is that Pokémon?"

"Better. They woke up today."

"I'm so glad!" Pesslle clapped her hands. "Did you need more supplies?"

"A few more bandages and some salve."

"Of course." Pesslle grabbed the supplies from the cabinet, holding them out to Rei. "If you need anything else, don't hesitate to ask me, all right?"

"Thank you for your help." Rei nodded once then turned and left the infirmary.

As he was leaving, Akari came out of Laventon's office. She grinned when she saw Rei.

"Rei!" Akari ran over to him. She stared at the supplies in his hands. "Are you still helping that Pokémon?"

"Something like that."

Akari frowned, worrying the corner of her mouth with her teeth. She shook her head. "I'm glad you're here. Professor Laventon says there's going to be a rare event this evening!"

"An event?" Rei repeated, tilting his head.

"Apparently, a flock of Pokémon native to Unova will be flying over Hisui as they return from their winter migration. We're going to the Coastlands to watch it. Do you want to come watch it with us?"

Rei hesitated. With Adaman watching Volo, he could watch the migration with Akari and Professor Laventon. Adaman did say he wanted Rei to get out more and this was the perfect opportunity.

"Yeah, I guess I can come."

Akari beamed, clapping her hands as she bounced on the balls of her feet. "I'll go tell Professor Laventon!"

Rei smiled as Akari ran back to Laventon's office, a warm sensation surrounding his heart. Leaving Galaxy Hall, Rei made a quick stop by Snips and Clips where Arezu was sitting out front on the bench.

She had a Vulpix laying in her lap, brushing out its fur.

"Aren't you just the cutest thing?" Arezu cooed, picking up the Vulpix to admire it.

Vulpix wagged its six tails, delighted at the attention. "Vul!"

"Hey, Arezu," Rei greeted.

"Rei!" Arezu grinned, holding the Vulpix against her chest. Her smile faded when she saw the state of Rei's hair. "Your hair looks like a Rufflet nest."

"Thanks. Do you think you could come to my place?"

Arezu stared at Rei for several moments before her expression turned to distrust. She leaned back, holding Vulpix tighter until it squeaked.

Rei groaned in frustration. Why was that her immediate reaction to his request? He wasn't interested in her and he already knew she didn't like guys that way. "Not like that! I need you to cut someone's hair for me."

"Why can't they just come here?" Arezu asked, releasing Vulpix when it wiggled in her grip.

Vulpix shook itself then began licking its paw to start grooming.

"They're hurt."

"Oh." Arezu hopped to her feet. "Okay, no problem. Give me a sec."

"Thanks," Rei said as Arezu ducked into the building.

A few moments later she returned with a small basin containing scissors, hairbrushes, and a bottle of shampoo that smelled like Roselia petals and Combee honey.

Arezu followed Rei back to his house, Vulpix trotting by her side.

"Just keep an open mind," Rei said, opening the door.

Arezu raised an eyebrow. "Okay?"

After shutting the door, Rei replaced the barrier. The action was quickly becoming a habit.

In the bedroom, Volo was still sitting on the futon with Kai by his side.

A disgruntled Adaman was in the corner, Thyme and the other two sitting in front of him.

"Why are you wet?" Rei asked, noticing the water dripping off Adaman's hair and clothes.

Adaman pointed at the cabinet AC lived in. "Your crazy Rotom attacked me with ice!"

AC peeked out of the cabinet then gave a nasty snicker as they slunk back inside.

Rei set his free hand on his hip as he gave the cabinet a disapproving glare. "AC, I said to watch him, not harass him."

The cabinet moved slightly in what Rei interpreted as a shrug.

Sighing, Rei set the supplies on the space beside Jules. He glanced over his shoulder to see Arezu staring at Volo with a strange expression on her face, like she wasn't sure how she should feel.

"I already got the lecture from Adaman," Rei said. "So--"

"No." Arezu shook her head. "I'm sorry. I know about the rumors, but I...I don't really put much thought into anecdotal stuff like that. I just never thought his hair was that long."

"Do you think you could help get it under control?”

Arezu snorted, shooting an offended look at Rei. "I can't believe you doubt my skills."

Rei rolled his eyes as Arezu walked into the bedroom. He didn't doubt her skills as a hair stylist at all.

Arezu knelt in front of Volo, setting her supplies by her side. "Hey, Volo."

Volo tilted his head, frowning. "How do you know my name?"

Arezu glanced at Adaman, eyebrows furrowed.

Adaman tapped the side of his head then shook it. That gesture seemed to be all the answer Arezu needed.

"Rei told me your name. I'm Arezu. I was going to get your hair clean."

"Oh." Volo reached up to touch his hair, dry and brittle between his fingers from the blood and dirt. "Thank you."

"No problem. Tempo, can you help me and Vulpix out?"

"Vapor!" Tempo trotted over to Arezu who pointed at the basin after taking out the other supplies.

"Fill it with a little bit of water, please."

As Tempo filled the basin, Volo glanced at Adaman still sitting in the corner.

The clan leader had felt familiar to him, but Volo couldn't place a finger on why. He didn't want to ask Adaman if they did know each other; it felt like the answer would be something he would regret.

"Hey."

Volo startled, leaning back when Arezu appeared in front of his face.

Arezu pointed at his chest. "The necklace. Can you take it off? I'd rather not get it wet."

Necklace?

Volo looked down, reaching into the kimono and pulling out a silver teardrop necklace hanging from a thin chain. He had felt the weight against his chest, but hadn't looked to see what it had been until then.

The necklace was his. It was important to him. That much he knew.

"Little sunshine!"

"Our little sunshine."

"Volo?"

A hand grabbed Volo's shoulder and he reacted by raising his arm to smack it off, leaning away from whoever had grabbed him.

The voices faded, leaving a pounding behind Volo's eyes and buzzing in his ears.

In front of him was Arezu, expression concerned. Her left hand was against her chest.

"Arezu!" Adaman chastised. "Don't scare him."

"Sorry! I didn't know he'd react like that."

Kai hovered closer, eye narrowed.

"Oh..." Volo took off the necklace, but kept it in his hand. "I'm sorry."

"Did you remember something?" Rei asked, leaning against the threshold between the main entrance and the bedroom.

Volo shook his head. "No."

"I didn't mean to startle you," Arezu said softly. "You zoned out even though I was talking to you."

"Sorry," Volo muttered, grip tightening on the necklace and its pendant. He avoided looking at her, embarrassed at his reaction.

"Anyway, let's see if we can't get your hair into better shape."

Volo laid down on his back when Arezu motioned him to, lletting his neck rest on the edge of the basin.

Arezu hummed, using a small cup to scoop up water warmed by Vulpix's flames. She pushed back the bangs covering Volo's left eye as she poured water on his hair. "You know, our clan believes that hair holds memories."

"You do?"

"It's why a lot of us don't cut our hair. Some leave their hair short for personal reasons, like me and Mai. Others never cut their hair, like Sabi and Melli. Adaman cut his hair once when he was a teen, shortly after he transitioned to clan leader."

Volo hummed, closing his eyes as Arezu's fingers attempted to carefully work through any knots or tangles in his hair. She had only started and already his hair felt cleaner and lighter.

"It seems a shame to cut your hair," Arezu muttered. "I've never seen golden hair like yours before."

"Is my hair color that uncommon?"

"I don't know about other regions, but it is here in Hisui." Arezu huffed, hands retreating from Volo's hair. "These knots are impossible. I was hoping to salvage what I could."

"It's all right if you cut it." Volo opened his eyes to look at Arezu. "I don't mind."

"I do." Arezu frowned before she sighed, picking up the scissors. "I'll save as much as I can."

Arezu started cutting Volo's hair, using Vulpix to burn the strands.

"Why do you do that?" Volo asked, remaining still so he wouldn't mess up her work or get stabbed with the scissors.

"When we cut our hair, we burn it to return the memories to Almighty Dialga. The memories live on in their eternal thoughts even when ours fade."

"I'm not part of your clan, though...am I?"

"I don't think Almighty Dialga would mind." Arezu smiled, rubbing her hands through Volo's hair to lather up the shampoo. "Everyone's time is precious to them, whether they're Diamond Clan or not."

"Huh..."

After using Tempo to rinse off Volo's hair, Arezu had Vulpix exhale warm breath to slowly dry it.

"What do you think?" Arezu gestured to the mirror in front of Volo. "I tried not to go too short."

Volo stared at his reflection, reaching up to touch his hair. His head felt lighter without the weight of the tangled, dirty mess he had before. Arezu had cut off a significant portion of hair; now it barely dropped past the base of his skull. She had kept enough length for some of his hair to drop back in front of his left eye.

"I like it."

Arezu grinned, clapping her hands together. "Glad you do. You know who to come to when you want to change up your style."

Volo glanced at her out of the corner of his eye as she stood, gathering all her supplies.

Adaman got to his feet. "I should head back to the clan to get some dry clothes."

"Can I ask you something outside?" Rei asked, following Adaman and Arezu as they walked to the front door. Thyme, Eon, and Tempo trailed after them.

"Sure."

Volo watched them leave before he continued staring at his reflection, running his fingers through his short hair.

The hair felt soft, like downy feathers of a warm body. A faint trilling hum echoed in his ears, warmth surrounding his shoulders like wings as a sensation of peace settled over him.

Chapter Text

"Thanks for all your help, Arezu," Adaman said as Rei closed the door behind them.

Arezu snorted, flapping a hand. "Yeah, whatever. Think of it as further payment for helping me out with Lady Lilligant."

"I already told you that you don't have to worry about repaying me," Rei muttered, crossing his arms. "I would hope that anyone else would have done the same thing."

A faint smile crossed Arezu's face as she shook her head. "I’m not so sure about that."

She raised a hand in farewell before walking back towards Snips and Clips, Vulpix trotting by her side.

"What did you want to ask me?" Adaman asked, turning his attention to Rei.

"There's a migration flying overhead later today," Rei said. "Akari asked me to come with her and Laventon to see it."

Adaman raised an eyebrow then tilted his head. "I assume you said yes."

Rei nodded.

"I'll be back before sunset then. Hopefully you'll take a bath and look more presentable before you leave."

"I took a bath recently," Rei muttered, glowering at Adaman.

"Rain doesn't count as a bath." Adaman pointed at Galaxy Hall as he walked towards the village gates. "A bath, a real one."

Rei groaned, shoulders dropping as he sulked. "I don't want to take a bath...why can't I just jump in the river..."

"Hey, Rei."

Rei looked over his shoulder to see Ginter waving him over. He sighed, approaching the merchant. "Hey, Ginter. What's up? Did you find something new you want me to look at?"

"Nothing new." Ginter shook his head, dropping his elbows onto his legs. "Have you seen Volo lately?"

Rei stiffened. He had forgotten that Ginter was more likely to wonder about Volo's whereabouts. Should he tell Ginter where Volo was? Was Ginter trustworthy enough to keep a secret? "Uh, no. Not really."

Ginter heaved a sigh, staring at Rei before he closed his eyes. "It's unlike him to be gone so long."

"When did you last see him?"

"A few weeks ago. He said something about changing the world. Kid's always been kind of strange, but finding ruins doesn't change the world.”

He meant literally changing the world, Rei thought but decided not to say that out loud.

Maybe Ginter was trustworthy enough to know about Volo.

"So, do you believe all the rumors?" Rei asked, carefully choosing his words. If Ginter didn't know about the rumors, it was best he remained in the dark. "About Volo?"

Ginter frowned, staring at the ground between his legs. "Volo wouldn't do anything like that. People make him out to be a villain without even asking him if it's true. Pathetic."

"Well..." Rei glanced around. Tuli appeared to be gone, perhaps taking Volo's place in delivering goods to the clans. That was good; he knew she could be a gossip. "I know where Volo is."

Ginter raised his head, staring at Rei with a puzzled expression. "You just said..."

"I know. I wanted to make sure you were trustworthy enough to know the truth." Rei tilted his head towards his house. "I'm taking care of him with Adaman's help."

"Taking care of him...?"

"He got hurt pretty bad. He also has amnesia, so he wouldn't recognize you."

"I see." Ginter sighed, then smiled. "Well, I'm glad he has a friend in you. Thanks for taking care of him."

Rei shrugged. "No problem."

“I mean it. Volo spoke highly of you. He said you were good at battles and listened to his rambles about ruins and myths.”

Rei looked away from Ginter, crossing his arms and hunching his shoulders. He didn't need a reminder of that.

Everything about Volo and their friendship had been a lie. Everything but his kindness towards his Pokémon.

“He's not the type to trick others into being friends with him,” Ginter said, reaching down to scratch Chrono under the chin.

Chrono purred, leaning into the affection.

“Whatever you're thinking, I assure you it isn't true.”

“How do you know?” Rei asked, keeping his voice low to avoid it cracking. His voice still cracked. “How do you know he didn't just trick me because he wanted my guard lowered?”

The corner of Ginter's mouth turned up. “I don't. I don't know anything other than what he told me. However, trust me when I say he didn't take friendship lightly.”

Rei dropped his gaze, clenching his hands. He supposed it wasn't the idea of a fake friendship hurt; it was that the friendship had been real and that stung deeper than any wound or death Rei had gone through. The fact that while Volo smiled, he held a knife behind his back.

“You shouldn't keep focusing on the past.”

Rei looked up sharply.

Ginter held a Lum berry in his hand, skinning it with a small knife. He dropped the green skin by Chrono's feet.

Chrono sniffed the offered skins before batting at them, tail flicking.

“You can't change it. Instead, focus on the present and what you can do to prevent a repeat of the future.”

Rei frowned, reaching into his pocket to grip the tumblestone necklace. He had been waffling over whether to give it to Volo. Despite everything, Volo deserved to have something of his old team, even if he didn't remember them.

Ginter smiled, looking at Rei. “If you'd like, I can watch your house while you take a bath.”

“What? Are you sure?”

Ginter nodded. “I'll make sure no one goes into your house while you're gone.”

“Hm…” Rei glanced over his shoulder. He supposed if he didn't take too long. “All right. Thanks.”

“Sure.” Ginter popped a small piece of the Lum berry into his mouth then held out a second slice to Chrono.

Chrono crunched into the berry slice before spitting it out with a disgusted expression.

Ginter chuckled, carving another slice for himself. “Don't like Lum berries. Noted.”

Looking at his house once more, Rei headed to Galaxy Hall. He trusted Ginter to keep his word.

The mixed bathhouse was a recent addition to Galaxy Hall's west wing. Survey Corps members typically used it after returning from surveys. A large bath had been built into the ground, inlaid with decorative white and blue ceramic tile; in the center was a gilded mosaic of the Survey Corps logo. An underground reservoir provided water through steel pipes, heated to a comfortable temperature by a Magmar that Rei loaned to the bathhouse.

Rei opened the door to the bathhouse and saw that it was devoid of other members. Good. He could have the place to himself.

Waterproof lockers lined one side of the bathhouse walls, used to store towels, scrub brushes, and shampoo. Each locker was marked so items could be returned to their proper place.

Rei had seen more than enough of Cyllene's anger when she discovered that towels and shampoo had been shoved into the soap locker to know that where things were placed was very serious to her.

“Mar!” Magmar approached Rei, tail swishing side to side, flame scattering ember petals.

“Hey.” Rei smiled, setting a hand on Magmar's head. “You doing okay?”

Magmar nodded. “Mag!”

The warmth beneath Rei's palm was less like lava and more like warming his hands by a fire. Comfortable and soothing.

Magmar burned those it did not trust much like Ponyta and Rapidash could control their flaming manes to not burn their rider or caretaker.

“Great. Can you warm up the water for me?”

“Mar mag!” Magmar walked over to the side of the bath and blew out a thin stream of fire.

While Magmar worked, Rei grabbed a towel and then searched through the soap and shampoo lockers for a scent he could stand.

He eventually settled on a bar of soap created from peat gathered in the Mirelands and a shampoo made with sandalwood and two types of Combee honey.

Peat could be found in nearly all of Hisui. Each block had a different scent depending on where it was dug up. Fieldlands peat smelled like fresh grass and apricorns. Coastlands peat smelled of sea and seaweed. Mirelands peat smelled like warm rain and pine needles.

A lot of the bar soaps were mixed with sea salt from the Coastlands, adding a gritty texture to help exfoliate the skin.

Rei grabbed one of the shorter scrub brushes from the pile in the brush locker. It looked newer than the others.

The bristles were made from Jolteon fur. It was discharged of all electricity to prevent shocks. Jolteon fur was stiff but became supple when wet, preventing skin scratches. It was the perfect material for exfoliation.

“Mar!” Magmar called, waving an arm to get Rei's attention.

The water was at the right temperature.

“Thanks, Magmar.” Rei set his supplies by the edge of the bath before stripping his clothes and tossing them to the side.

He couldn't remember the last time he had actually taken a bath rather than stand in a rainstorm to get clean.

Stepping into the bath and sitting down, Rei leaned against the side with a sigh. The heat of the water relaxed tense muscles and aches he wasn't aware he had.

Rei splashed some water onto his arm and dragged his hand down. The water around him turned light brown as the dirt on his skin loosened.

It was a shame to scrub off the thin layer of dirt that had come to encase his body like a second skin. Despite how it looked, Rei knew his scent was kept to a minimum with the dirt obscuring it. Now he would have to build it up again after the bath.

Unscented body wash and shampoo were not in the Survey Corps vocabulary.

But, oh, did it feel amazing with clean skin and hair. He felt like a new person.

Rei slid down a bit, continuing to soak in the pleasant water. He stared at the ceiling and the faint slivers of steam curling into the air, mind starting to wander.

The moment his foot hit the last step and the broken pillars of Sinnoh Temple stretched out before him, Rei spotted Volo standing where Dialga and Palkia had emerged from their portals.

Exhaling a steaming breath, Rei approached Volo. The trip to the temple always felt arduous due to the high altitude, snow, and cold.

Volo, who was gazing at the wispy clouds in the bright blue sky, turned and smiled at Rei. “I'm glad you followed my request and came here.”

“What's with the new clothes?” Rei asked, looking Volo's strange attire up and down. Had he also stopped by Jubilife and gotten Arezu to do his hair?

“I'm grateful that you went and found the Plates for me. It saved me from having to do all the legwork.” Volo crossed his hands behind his back. “You have seventeen out of the eighteen needed to summon Arceus. So, where's the last one?”

“Here?” Rei guessed, glancing around. Why else would Volo call him to the Temple unless he had an idea of the whereabouts of the final Plate?

Volo's smile turned razor thin, silver eyes going cold. He pulled a dark purple Plate from behind his back, holding it out for Rei to see. “Here.”

“The Spooky Plate!” Rei gasped, taking a step closer to Volo. “You have it? How?”

Volo pulled the Plate back, holding out his free hand. “Hand over the other Plates. I will be the one to meet Arceus. Not you.”

Rei furrowed his eyebrows at the demand, tilting his head. Volo's behavior was baffling; he'd never spoken to Rei so coldly before. “I don't understand.”

“Oh, Rei, you should have just stayed ignorant. It would have been better that way.” Volo shook his head, closing his eyes. “I worshipped Arceus as the sole creator of the universe. The All-Encompassing. Still, despite my devotion, they never deigned to reveal themselves to me. I will wait no longer for them to appear before me; I will force them! I must know what Arceus is! If I can see Arceus for myself, then I may also be able to subjugate the power they hold. Using that, I will create a new and better world!”

Create a…new world? Creating a new one would mean that the old one would have to be destroyed.

Rei took a step closer, reaching out a hand. “Volo, can't we just talk about this?”

“Talk–?!” Volo cackled, smacking his face. “Talk about what? I'm going to be the one to meet Arceus! I have the Celestican blood–blood blessed by Arceus themselves–not you. I'm going to show them that they shouldn't have put their trust in an outsider like you!”

Rei stepped back as the words stabbed into him like a poison-tipped arrow.

Outsider? Weren't they…friends?

Volo stared at Rei, a single eyebrow raised and the corner of his mouth quirked up. He was waiting for Rei's response.

Rei set his expression, steeling himself. Fine. If that's what had to happen. They weren't friends. Not anymore.

“That's it!” Volo grinned wildly, spreading his arms out in front of him. “Look at me with pure hatred and come at me with everything you've got! Show me that this world is worth saving!”

Rei wanted to hate Volo. Loathe him.

Any other person would despise Volo for his actions, leave him in Turnback Cave. Perhaps even end his suffering.

Rei couldn't bring himself to do that. Even after what happened at Sinnoh Temple, Rei could only reflect on how genuine their friendship had been.

Rei hummed, leaning against a tree with his eyes closed. The cool spring breeze swirling around the Fieldlands brought with it a sweet, calming scent.

In the distance, young Starly chirped impatiently at their parents in their nests. Two Pichu argued over a berry, pulling it between them. Their cheeks sparked with tiny bolts of electricity. A Pikachu pulled them apart with a disapproving shake of his head before splitting the berry in half and handing it to each Pichu.

Rei slid down more, folding his arms behind his head and crossing his legs.

It was a nice day to just relax and take in the sounds of nature around him.

“Boo!” 

Rei startled at the voice, scrambling back. He sighed, setting a hand against his chest, when he saw that it was just Volo.

“Why do you keep doing that?”

Volo chuckled, holding up a finger. “Because it's fun. You know what else is fun?” He grabbed a Poké Ball from his belt, holding it up. “Battles.”

Rei grinned, hopping to his feet and stepping back. He grabbed Ace's Poké Ball, releasing the Dewott. “Get ready to get your ass kicked again, merchant.”

“Dewott.” Ace smirked at Volo before thumping his chest. “Dew.”

“Tough words from such a little guy.” Volo tossed up the Poké Ball, releasing the Pokémon inside. “Let's start with my new partner!”

“Dew!” Budew chirped, shaking himself off.

Rei gaped at the tiny Pokémon standing in front of Volo. Despite abundant Roselia in the Mirelands, their pre-evolution Budew were rarely seen. Professor Laventon considered them rarer than Togepi.

“A Budew! Where'd you get it?”

“Merchant secret.” Volo winked, wagging his finger. “Start it off with a Poison Sting!”

"Dew!" Budew opened the buds on top of his head, spraying an array of poisonous needles towards Ace.

"Knock them down with Razor Shell!" Rei ordered.

Ace grabbed the dual scallops attached to his waist, holding them up. Water coated the shells, stretching out and sharpening them into small blades. Using the water daggers, Ace smacked the poison barbs out of the air.

A single needle made it past Ace's defense, scratching his cheek.

Ace grimaced as poison wracked his body.

"Agile style Energy Ball, if you would, Budew," Volo said, a wide grin crossing his face.

Rei knew Volo had the upper hand with Budew's type advantage, but if there was one thing about Rei, it was that he didn't let that stop him from wrecking someone's overconfidence.

"Counter it with an agile style Water Gun!"

Ace unleashed a blast of water as Budew slung a glowing ball of green energy towards him.

The two attacks collided before exploding, spreading a veil of smoke between Budew and Ace.

"Now, Tackle!"

Ace burst through the smoke, slamming his body into Budew and sending the small Pokémon skidding across the ground.

"Budew, Absorb!"

"Dew..." Budew struggled to get back to his feet before lashing a vine at Ace.

The vine wrapped around Ace's arm, burying small needles into his skin.

Ace flinched as the vine began sapping his energy, sending it straight towards Budew.

Rei smirked. Volo may have thought he had the advantage, using Absorb to heal Budew's injuries, but that was just where Rei wanted him.

"Pull Budew closer for a strong style Razor Shell!"

Gritting his teeth, Ace grabbed the vine with both paws, yanking Budew closer. Red energy surrounded the scallop Ace pulled from his waist.

Budew screamed as Ace slashed him with the Razor Shell, vine recoiling.

Ace struck Budew with the second shell, smacking Budew into a nearby tree.

Budew slumped to the ground, unmoving.

Volo clicked his tongue, returning Budew to his Poké Ball.

"Wott!" Ace grinned before grimacing as another stroke of venom wracked his body, dropping to one knee. "Dewo..."

Ace struggled to return to his feet before giving up, gasping for breath.

"Good job, Ace." Rei returned Ace to his Poké Ball. "You deserve a good rest."

"I suppose that was a good fight, but don't forget I still have more Pokémon!" Volo tossed up another Poké Ball.

"Gible!" Gible hopped from foot to foot before starting to gnaw the tumblestone necklace around his neck.

"I know someone who's been waiting for a rematch." Rei tossed up a Poké Ball, releasing Aurora, the shiny Ralts.

Ralts were typically found in the Icelands which Rei had no access to. He wasn't quite high enough in rank for one of the more dangerous areas of Hisui. Luck had seemed to be with him as he discovered Aurora being attacked by a Honchkrow in the Fieldlands. After scaring off the Honchkrow with Ace, Rei managed to gain the Ralts' trust with some Oran berries and a potato mochi.

Aurora had lost her first battle against Volo's Gible in the Solaceon Ruins and since then had retained a grudge against Gible and by extension, Gible's owner Volo.

"Raaa!" Aurora stomped her foot, glaring at Gible. “Ra Ralts!"

"Gib?" Gible appeared confused by Aurora's cry, scratching his cheek.

"Double Team, Aurora!"

Aurora swung her arms by her side, creating copies of herself that surrounded Gible.

"That didn't work last time, and it won't work this time!" Volo said, swinging a hand towards Gible. "Bulldoze!"

"Gible!" Gible leaped up then landed, a small shockwave spreading out.

The shockwave staggered the multiple Ralts around Gible, causing them to vanish in puffs of smoke.

"Gib?" Gible looked around when he saw that Aurora hadn't been hit by the attack and seemed to have vanished.

"We learned a bit from our last battle as well!” Rei announced, raising his hand.

Hovering above the ground was Aurora, using psychic energy to keep herself airborne.

“Now, Confusion!”

Aurora dropped in front of Gible, psychic energy around her body dispersing. She smirked at the surprised look on the tiny dragon's face, her eyes glowing bright blue.

Energy surrounded Gible, lifting him off the ground before slamming him back down.

Aurora lifted Gible once more, slamming him back down again, more aggressively.

Gible staggered back when he was finally released from Aurora's Confusion, shaking his head.

"Now for the finale. Strong style Draining Kiss!"

Aurora moved in close, planting a chaste kiss on Gible's cheek.

Gible glowed red, and when Aurora stepped back, the energy stretched between them before dissipating.

Gible stumbled before collapsing, the energy around his body fading.

Aurora smirked, crossing her arms as Volo returned Gible. "Ra Ralts."

"Don't celebrate just yet," Volo said, taking out a third Poké Ball. "I still got Togepi."

"Pi!" Togepi raised her arms. "Toge!"

"Strong style," Volo grinned, wagging a finger, "Metronome!"

Togepi trilled, waving her tiny hands as they glowed.

Rei rolled his eyes, unimpressed and unsurprised.

Volo sure liked his Metronome. With its randomized outcome, Rei couldn't see why. Togepi could just as easily use Tail Whip as it could something powerful like Explosion.

"Then we'll just counter with a Double Team!"

"Ra." Aurora created several rows of copies, surrounding Togepi in a crescent shape.

Togepi pointed her hands at Aurora.

A massive blast of blue energy was released, sweeping through Aurora's clones and striking her head on.

Volo blinked as the smoke left behind by the attack cleared, showing Aurora lying on the ground. A smile crossed his face and he clapped. "Excellent attack, Togepi!'

Togepi trilled, bouncing up and down at the praise.

What had that attack been? Rei hadn't seen it before, but it was an attack that some Pokémon somewhere knew.

That was all right. Rei still had Orre left to take down Togepi.

Rei released the Alpha Magnemite from their Poké Ball.

"I see you got a new friend as well!" Volo said. "What an unusual-looking Pokémon!"

Rei thought so, too. He had found Orre struggling in the Mirelands, obviously lost and out of its element. Still, adding an electric and steel type quickly to his team aided in his efforts to raise his rank so he could see the Coastlands.

"Let's stop that Metronome with Supersonic, Orre!"

Orre buzzed, magnets attached to their sides beginning to spin rapidly. Blue waves pulsed towards Togepi.

Togepi squeaked as the sound waves struck her, shaking her head.

"Use Metronome again, Togepi!"

"Piii?" Togepi waved her arms then pointed them down. Thick, black smoke surrounded Togepi.

"Looks like she's gotten a little bit confused!" Rei called as the Smog caused Togepi to stagger. "Orre, on the other hand, is ready with a strong style Gyro Ball!"

Orre beeped then spun rapidly, sweeping towards Togepi and slamming into her.

Togepi crashed into the tree.

"Okay, okay!" Volo waved his hands, stepping in front of Togepi. "I get it. Let's just call it a draw."

Rei snorted, returning Orre to their Poké Ball. "Fine. A draw."

Volo set his merchant pack on the ground and placed Togepi in his lap as he sat down. "Let me see if I still have some."

Rei moved closer, sitting nearby as Volo rummaged through his pack. "If you need some healing items, I have some."

"I want to try a new one." Volo pulled out a glass bottle. Full Restore was written in neat letters on the front.

"What's that?"

"It's a Full Restore. I crafted it a while ago after some trial and error. It should heal Togepi's wounds and her status condition."

"Really?"

Volo nodded, rubbing the Full Restore on Togepi's shell and head. "In theory. This is my first time using it."

Rei watched as the Full Restore was absorbed into Togepi's skin, healing the scratches she had sustained from the battle.

"Pi?" Togepi blinked, looking around.

"Do you feel better?" Volo asked, holding Togepi up.

"Toge!" Togepi flapped her hands with an ecstatic trill. "Pi!"

A sharp blue glow surrounded Togepi, blinding Rei and Volo.

Rei gaped as the glow faded moments later and a new Pokemon hovered in front of Volo, tiny wings flapping to stay airborne. "A Togetic!"

"You evolved!" Volo held Togetic's hands as she rubbed her face against his. "After nine years..."

Togetic trilled, flying around Volo's head.

"Wow." Rei grabbed his satchel, pulling out the Pokédex. "I haven't seen a Togetic yet. Just wait until the Professor sees the entry."

Volo chuckled as Togetic settled against his leg, wings drooping against her back. "I feel honored that my Togetic was the first one you saw."

"Don't get a big head over it," Rei muttered, sketching Togetic sleeping against Volo's leg.

Volo smiled, leaning back on his hands. "I'll try not to."

Rei frowned, sinking into the water until his nose touched the surface.

Would the betrayal have hurt less if their friendship had been fake? Had it stung Volo just as much to turn on Rei?

Rei set a hand against his face, slowly dragging it down. Exhaustion still clung around him. Not physical, but mental and emotional. It was determined to override how refreshed he felt taking a bath.

Don't focus on the past, he reprimanded himself, staring at his reflection in the water. Focus on the present.

Volo had a clean slate to work with and Rei would make certain he didn't repeat the same mistakes. He could go down a different path.

Ducking under the water, Rei furiously scrubbed his fingers through his hair.

Once that was done, he focused on using the soap bar and shampoo to clean his body and hair.

"Mar!" Magmar said when Rei pulled himself out of the bath. Magmar held out Rei's clothes.

While he had been lost in his thoughts, Magmar had washed and dried Rei's clothes.

Rei smiled, taking the warm and clean clothes. "Thanks, Magmar."

Magmar grinned, tail waving. "Magmar."

After drying himself and pulling on his clothes, Rei replaced the soap, brush, and shampoo where he found them then left the bathhouse.

His hair was still damp, but it would dry before he had to go to the Coastlands.

As Rei walked towards his house, he noticed Adaman approaching with his Eeveelutions by his side. "Adaman?"

Why was Adaman back so quickly? He didn't need to return for at least a few more hours.

Glancing at the sky, Rei saw that the blue sky was slowly being replaced by a cozy orange glow of late afternoon.

How long had he been in the bath? It hadn't felt that long.

"Did you forget I was coming?" Adaman teased with an easygoing smile. "Or were you so into your bath that you lost track of time?"

Rei glowered at Adaman, crossing his arms. He did not want to admit that it was the latter.

"Rei!"

Rei turned at the voice.

Professor Laventon, Cyllene, and Akari were approaching him and Adaman. Laventon was waving as they came closer.

"Hey, Rei!" Akari launched herself at Rei, leaning against him with a bright smile. "Ready to go?"

"Pi?" Pikachu stepped closer to Rei, sniffing his neck. "Pi Pika!"

"Huh?" Akari also sniffed Rei before gasping, stepping back, and clapping her hands. "You took a bath!"

Rei felt more and more like he did not want to go if they were making such a big deal out of him taking a bath.

"Clan Leader Adaman," Laventon greeted with a nod. "What are you doing here?"

"Are you here to watch over the Pokémon while Rei is gone?" Cyllene asked.

"Pokémon?" Laventon repeated, looking between Cyllene and Adaman. "What Pokémon? Is it a new species? I have to see!"

"No, no, it's not a new species!" Adaman waved his hands. "It's just an injured, ah..."

Rei glanced at Adaman and saw Adaman staring at him. Right. They hadn't decided on a cover story for the 'injured Pokémon.’ If Rei said it was a Sigilyph, a Pokémon not native to Hisui, Laventon would not drop wanting to see it.

"It's a Togepi," Ginter piped up. He raised an eyebrow when everyone looked at him. "What?"

"Yeah, it's a Togepi," Rei insisted.

"Oh, bother." Laventon frowned. "I was hoping a new species had been discovered."

"I hope Rei isn't bothering you with his request to watch this injured Togepi while we're gone," Cyllene said, folding her hands behind her back.

Adaman shook his head. "Not a bother at all. I have Mai keeping an eye on the clan while I'm here."

Cyllene nodded. "Thank you."

"We should get going," Laventon said. "We don't want to miss the migration!"

"Have fun." Adaman waved as the four left. Once they were far enough away, he looked at Ginter.

Ginter smiled, shrugging a shoulder. "Don't worry. I didn't go inside."

"Rei told you."

"He did." Ginter nodded. "Don't worry. I won't tell anyone."

"Thanks." Adaman opened the door to Rei's house, allowing Thyme and his siblings to go ahead of him.

Inside, Volo was sitting on the futon with Kai by his side. He perked up when the door opened and the three Eveelutions came bounding in.

Kai moved away from Volo as Thyme and the others approached, hovering in the corner.

"I hope you weren't too bored while you were alone," Adaman said, shutting the door behind him and setting up the barrier.

Volo shook his head. "I actually woke up from a nap a while ago."

That made sense. Volo was still recovering, so he was more likely to sleep.

"Anyway." Adaman took off his shoes at the entrance then headed into the bedroom. He pulled out a Diamond Clan shirt and pants.

It had been a good thing he kept them hidden under his shirt. The story of the injured Togepi might have fallen apart if Cyllene had seen the clothes.

"These should fit you." Adaman held out the clothes. "I figured you're around my size, so I got you some of my old clothes."

"Thank you." Volo took the offered clothes with a faint smile.

Kai watched Adaman from its spot in the corner, eye narrowed.

Adaman avoided looking at Kai. It unnerved him how Kai always stared at him like a Staraptor stalking its prey. Perhaps Kai knew it unnerved him and tried to be even more unnerving, like the Rotom.

"Wait."

Volo froze when Adaman held up a hand. He had the kimono Rei placed on him halfway off. Faint, silvery scars of varying shapes and sizes crossed wide areas of his exposed skin.

Adaman dropped his gaze and pointed to Volo's arm. "Your bandages should be changed."

Blinking, Volo glanced at his bandaged arm to see that pink streaks stained the white cloth. "Oh."

"It'd be easier to do it before you get into new clothes." Adaman stood and went into the kitchen.

Rei had left the bandages and salve by the sink along with a bowl and cloth used to clean Volo's wounds.

He grabbed the supplies and returned to the bedroom, kneeling in front of Volo again.

Without asking, Tempo sprayed some water into the bowl before returning to where his siblings were lying.

"Let me see your arm."

Volo held out his arm and watched Adaman unwind the bandages, exposing the stitched slash marks.

Using the wet cloth, Adaman cleaned the marks then covered them with a thin layer of salve.

Volo tilted his head, a faint stinging in his arm causing his hand to twitch.

Why are you familiar to me? the thought rose to Volo's mind. How do we know each other?

A desperation to ask scratched at the back of Volo's mind like an attention-seeking Growlithe pup.

Would he even tell me?

The sour thought left a bitter taste in Volo's mouth.

A faint memory struggled to rise to the surface in Volo's mind, faded and ripped. He tried to latch onto it only to have it burn and scatter like petals on the wind.

"Hey."

Volo startled at Adaman's voice, leaning back.

Adaman stared at him in concern. "You all right?"

Volo glanced at his leg and chest to see that the bandages had been changed. How long had he been lost in his own thoughts?

"Y-yeah, I'm fine."

Adaman knit his eyebrows together as if he wasn't sure whether to believe Volo before he looked at the Red Chain around one of Volo's wrists.

It looked to be of the same material that the Red Chain used to bind Dialga, but it couldn't possibly be the same.

The Lake Guardians punished him.

Why attach a Red Chain to Volo as a punishment? What was the point?

Adaman reached a hand to the Red Chain and tried to pull it off. The Chain appeared to be fused with Volo's skin.

Adaman withdrew his hand quickly, realizing he was probably making Volo uncomfortable.

"Well, I guess I can make some dinner since Rei will be gone for a while."

"Where did Rei go?" Volo asked, pulling the Diamond Clan shirt over his head. "He didn't tell me."

"He's going to Gingko Landing in the Coastlands to watch a migration."

Volo perked up, his eyes sparkling. "A migration?"

"You can't go."

"Oh." Volo deflated at the news, staring at the ground.

Guilt sank its teeth into Adaman’s heart and he bit the bottom of his lip, thinking.

He couldn't exactly tell Volo the truth about why he couldn't go: that they couldn't let others see him. He could tell a little lie, though.

"You're injured. Some Pokémon will take advantage of that."

Adaman rubbed the back of his neck when he didn't get an immediate response from Volo. An idea came to his mind and he snapped his fingers.

"How about I make a Diamond Clan favorite for dinner? Sukiyaki!"

That got Volo to lift his head.

"Sukiyaki?" Volo repeated.

"Yeah. It's made with Swinub meat, sugar, saké, vegetables, and mushrooms. We usually eat it for the winter, but I'll make an exception this time." Adaman stood and went over to AC.

AC glowered at him.

"I know you don't like me and I don't like you, but I need to see what Rei has to see what I need to get from Beni."

AC buzzed, turning around so their back was to Adaman.

"Oh, come on." Adaman sighed. He wasn't entirely sure how to get AC to listen to him. "Forget it. Thyme, you and the others stay here. I'll be back."

"Lea!" Thyme raised his head from his paws.

Volo watched Adaman leave, closing the door behind him. He sighed, leaning back on his left hand.

"Bre." Eon circled around Volo then stretched herself across his lap.

He ran his fingers through her short black fur, letting his gaze drift to the seashells on the windowsill.

Reaching over, Volo grabbed the largest one and set it against his ear. He closed his eyes, listening to the waves.

Warm fur of living fire threaded through his fingers.

Rei breathed in the afternoon sea breeze and exhaled.

The last time he had been in the Coastlands had been to jump from Veilstone Cape and let the sea drown him. Now he stood at the shore of Gingko Landing, waves washing around his ankles, waiting for the migration of Unovan bird Pokémon.

Akari grew impatient seconds after they arrived and enlisted the help of the local Spheal to begin the process of building a sand castle. Pikachu hopped down from her shoulder to watch.

"Good job, Spheal!" Akari praised as the Spheal used their flippers to smooth the sides of the sand castle.

The Spheal all barked at the praise, slapping their flippers together.

"Pi." Pikachu pinned his ears back before scampering towards Rei and sitting beside him.

Rei stared at the ocean stretching out in front of him, sparkling with the sun's rays.

In the distance, a pod of Mantine and Mantyke breached the ocean's surface. They scattered when two Gyarados erupted from the depths, snapping at them. One managed to sink its teeth into an unfortunate Mantine's wing and drag it beneath the waves.

"The circle of life is quite fascinating, isn't it?" Laventon asked, approaching Rei with Cyllene beside him. Laventon's lab coat hung around her shoulders.

"It's just nature." Rei shrugged a shoulder. "You're either prey or predator."

"What Laventon means to ask is if you're feeling better," Cyllene said. "We have all been concerned for you."

Rei glanced at Laventon and Cyllene.

Laventon rubbed the back of his neck with a nervous smile. The question about the circle of life had been his way of striking up a conversation before asking Rei how he felt.

Cyllene, on the other hand, was rather blunt and didn't beat around the bush.

Rei stared at Tranquility Cove stretching in front of him. He felt better. He wasn't at 100% and didn't expect to be overnight. Taking a bath, standing at the shore in the sun and salty air rather than staying cooped up in his house did help, though.

"Better," Rei said after letting the silence stagnate. "The sunsets here are nice."

"They do differ from the sunsets in other places of Hisui, don't they?" Laventon mused. "Perhaps it's because it's near the ocean and the light reflecting off the surface gives off a different atmosphere."

Rei hummed.

Something wet smacked into the side of Rei's neck and he immediately turned towards the source, ready for a fight.

Pikachu pointed a sandy paw at a nearby Spheal.

The Spheal appeared surprised at the false accusation before rolling away at a breakneck pace.

"You little rat," Rei growled, lunging for Pikachu.

Pikachu laughed, dodging Rei and bolting towards Akari. He hid behind the sand castle, peeking around it with a snicker.

"Don't you dare!" Akari snapped, pointing at Rei. "We worked hard on it!"

Growling, Rei dropped to his hands and knees, trying to figure out a way to get back at Pikachu without destroying the sand castle.

"Pika." Pikachu shot a smug look at Rei and scampered onto Akari's shoulder, sticking his tongue out.

Rei lunged for Pikachu with a frustrated yell, trampling the sand castle standing between him and getting revenge.

Pikachu hopped to the ground as Rei tried to grab him.

"Rei!" Akari whined, shoving Rei back. "You destroyed my sand castle!"

"He started it!" Rei protested, pointing at Pikachu.

"Ka?" Pikachu pointed at himself, expression innocent.

"I'm ending it." Akari set her hands on her hips, giving a look she had perfected from Cyllene. It gave no opening for a counterargument. "Now, help me rebuild the sand castle."

Rei groaned even as he felt himself smiling. Even frustrated, he found himself having fun. "Okay."

Sitting by Akari's side, he helped smooth out the sand so they could start rebuilding.

As soon as the castle's base had been completed, Laventon called out, "There they are!"

Rei looked up to see a black mass coming closer to them. He stood and went to stand beside Laventon and Cyllene for a better look.

It was a large group of bird Pokémon with light gray feathers. The smaller Pokémon were nestled in the middle of the larger bird Pokémon, a strategy employed to protect the weak or sick from opportunistic predators.

"Those are Pidove and their evolution, Tranquil," Laventon said, pointing each one out. "Unfezant seem to rarely migrate with their pre-evolutions and instead form their own flocks."

"There's got to be thousands of them!" Akari gasped as the bird Pokémon soared above them, their cries rising to a cacophony.

"Pidove are quite common in Unova to the point they're a nuisance," Laventon said. "Kind of like Rattata in Kanto and Wurmple here."

"Ugh..." Cyllene muttered, a shudder running through her.

"They're beautiful," Akari sighed.

A dark shadow broke from the flock and banked towards them.

"What is that?" Rei asked as the bird Pokémon came closer.

It didn't look like the gray Pidove or Tranquil. Its breast feathers were mostly blue-gray with black feathers surrounding its face. A leather satchel hung diagonally across the bird Pokémon's chest.

"That's a Corvisquire," Laventon said, holding his arm up. "A Pokémon from Galar."

Corvisquire perched on Laventon's outstretched arm, red eyes staring at the group in front of it. Corvisquire used its beak to open the satchel and pulled out an envelope, holding it out to Laventon.

When Laventon took the envelope, Corvisquire squawked and flew off, heading in the opposite direction of the Pidove and Tranquil flock.

"A letter?" asked Akari, watching as Laventon opened the envelope and pulled out a folded piece of paper.

"What's it say?" Rei asked.

Laventon didn't respond as he silently read the contents of the letter. After a while he sighed, shoulders slumping. “Oh, biscuits.”

Cyllene set a hand on Laventon's arm. "What is it?"

"It appears I am being summoned back to Galar, posthaste."

Chapter Text

Dear Professor Laventon,

It has been over a year since you departed for the region of Hisui in the eastern regions to complete your hypothesis on environmental evolution and test your theory on the differences between it and the existence of regional variants. The time passed has been more than adequate to complete your evaluation.

As such, the Professors Association Board of Galar requests you return posthaste to reveal your findings. Any refusal of this request will result in punishment.

A boat will be dispatched to pick you up shortly. We pray the Hero of Sword and Shield will protect you on your journey.

Regards,

Professor Association of Galar

"Do you really have to go back to Galar?" Akari asked, handing the letter back to Laventon. "Can't you just send them a letter telling them of your success?"

The group had returned to Galaxy Hall and Laventon's office to talk about the letter received from the Corvisquire. Laventon sat at his desk after handing the letter to Akari so she and Rei could read it. Cyllene excused herself after a few moments to make tea for everyone.

Laventon sighed, staring at the letter in his hand before dropping it on the desk. "It's not as easy as that, Akari. If I sent them a letter, they would assume I am lying."

"Then send them a photo or something!" Rei growled, slamming his hands on the desk. The books piled along the edges shifted from the force. "I can have Ace and the others pose for you at the photography studio. A photo should be proof enough--"

"Rei." Laventon stared at Rei, expression stern.

Rei stepped back. Laventon had never looked at him like that before.

Laventon stared at Rei a few moments longer before resting his forehead against interlocked hands. "I am in no position to deny them or work around their request. They have the power to strip me of my Professor's license. That means I could never become a Professor again."

Rei grit his teeth, looking away with a quiet growl. Getting angry at the situation wasn't going to help, but a sense of powerlessness at the situation washed over him.

Cyllene entered the room, carrying a tray with four cups of tea. She handed one to Akari and one to Rei before moving to Laventon's side.

"Do you have to leave right away?" Cyllene asked, setting a tea cup in front of Laventon.

Her expression was somber as she held the tray under her arm so she could have her own tea.

Rei could tell she was trying not to look upset at the news that Laventon was leaving Hisui, potentially forever.

Sighing, Laventon leaned back in his chair. "I'm afraid I do." He turned his attention to Rei. "Will you join me? You have the three Pokémon I came to Hisui with and I'm not much of a battler like you. I'd feel safer if you joined me."

Rei hesitated a few seconds then nodded.

Laventon grinned. "Great. I'll send a response to the council right away. We'll depart in about two weeks."

Rei stared at his reflection in the tea cup, biting the inside of his lip. Now what was he going to do about Volo?

"I should check on the Togepi," Rei muttered, setting the cup on Laventon's desk. He turned and left the office.

This wasn't the greatest thing in the world. Volo was still healing and Rei couldn't have Adaman keep coming to his house while he was gone to watch him.

Stupid Professor Association, Rei thought, opening the door to his house.

Adaman and Volo were sitting in the bedroom, holding bowls with rice, meat, and vegetables. Thyme and the others were eating from a plate of potato mochi.

Adaman grinned when he saw Rei. "Hey! You're just in time for some sukiyaki!"

Volo prodded the food in curiosity before awkwardly using the chopsticks to grab a piece of meat, holding it up to Kai.

Kai trilled quietly, moving closer to stare at the offered food.

"Can I talk to you for a moment outside?" Rei asked, tilting his head to the door.

"Oh." Adaman looked between Volo and Rei before he set his bowl down. "Sure."

Rei opened the door and once Adaman stepped outside, he shut it.

"What's up?"

"Laventon is being called back to Galar and he's asked me to come with him."

Adaman leaned against the side of the house, folding his arms over his chest. "I see. How long until you leave?"

"Two weeks."

Humming, Adaman closed his eyes. "Two weeks isn't a lot of time, you know."

"I know. I have to go though. Isn't there any way you can convince your clan to watch Volo while I'm gone?"

"That's kind of a tall order." Adaman rubbed the back of his neck. "He is a wanted man. They'd sooner want to execute him than watch him."

Rei sighed. He knew it was asking a lot, but it was riskier to leave Volo unattended for several hours a day. Even with Ginter's help watching the house, there was only so much he could do to prevent anyone from entering.

"I'll see what I can do." Adaman dropped a hand on Rei's shoulder, grinning. "If I can convince the elders that he's not a threat then it should be easier to convince everyone else."

Rei smiled, hope rising in him. "Thanks, Adaman!"

"What are you two talking about?"

Rei looked to see Akari approaching them.

"Uh, nothing!" he said quickly just as Adaman said, "The trip to Galar!"

Rei caught Adaman's eye and they moved to stand in front of the door to his house.

Akari tilted her head with their conflicting answers. Pikachu lowered his ears with an unimpressed expression. "Okay, well...I want to come to Galar, too."

"You want to come to Galar?" Rei asked, baffled at the request. Unlike him, she had no reason to come to Galar.

"Mm!" Akari nodded. "You're my friend and Laventon's like my dad! Of course I want to come with!"

Rei glanced at Adaman who shook his head then looked away, letting Rei handle the situation.

"Uh..." Rei set a hand against the back of his neck. "Well, you should be asking Laventon, not me."

"I know he'll approve!" Akari clenched her hands with an excited grin. "I'll go tell him right away!"

"See you?" Rei waved as Akari bolted back to Galaxy Hall.

"Hey, more company is always nice," Adaman offered. "She'll find a way to follow you guys anyway."

"Yeah."

Akari was stubborn when it came to a lot of things and once she set her mind to things, she would keep at it until she got the result she wanted.

"I'll figure something out by the time you guys leave," Adaman said, patting Rei's back before he walked away. "I have to head out to check on the village so you can have my sukiyaki if you'd like."

"Thanks again." Rei waved as Adaman departed before he headed into his house. He had to at least tell Volo that he might be moving to a new place soon.

Adaman sighed, passing through the village gates and making his way east, towards the Mirelands. He acted sure of himself, but he wasn't so sure at all.

How was he even going to begin convincing the stubborn elders that Volo wasn't a threat with his amnesia? They were more likely to think Volo was faking it or that he had put Adaman under a spell to trick them.

Rubbing his hair, Adaman released a frustrated groan. Nothing could ever be easy.

"Lea?" Thyme rubbed against Adaman's leg as they walked, staring at him.

"Sorry, guys. I'm just thinking about how the elders will respond."

Eon pinned her ears back, expression sour. "Bre."

Eon didn't care for the elders and in honesty, Adaman didn't either. The elders held fast to the old ways and even though they had budged on the fact the clan had been wrong about Sinnoh and reluctantly formed a friendship with the Pearl Clan, they were less likely to forgive the person who had started the Frenzies and endangered their home.

Even though he was the leader of the clan, Adaman didn't have that much power. He had to go through the elders to approve certain actions. His position could also be stripped if Lord Wyrdeer felt he wasn't up to the task.

"Do you guys think they'll agree to watch Volo while Rei is gone?" Adaman looked down at his partners.

Thyme and the other two shook their heads simultaneously.

"Yeah, me either."

What was he going to do? He had to move Volo somewhere by the time Rei left for Galar with Laventon. If he couldn't move Volo to his clan, perhaps there was another place.

Oh, well, he thought. I have at least two weeks to decide how to handle this.

"Hey, Adaman!"

Adaman slowed to a stop when he saw Mai approaching him. Munchlax waddled by her side. "Mai."

"Heading back to the clan?" Mai asked, holding her hands behind her back.

"Yeah. Were you on your way back, too?"

Mai shook her head. "Nope. I was going to visit Melli."

Adaman frowned. Melli rarely wanted people in his section of Hisui. He always got annoyed when Adaman visited just to make sure he had enough supplies, grumbling about overbearing siblings.

"Is something wrong?"

"Not really. Want to come with?"

Adaman looked towards the Mirelands in the distance. The golden grass and pungent marshlands were calling to him. He wanted to have a moment's reprieve in his own tent.

However, he hadn't seen Melli in a while and the Highlands weren't that far from the Mirelands. In the end, which way he went wouldn't make much of a difference.

"I suppose I have some time," Adaman relented.

"Great!" Mai beamed, clapping her hands before walking ahead of Adaman. "What's up with you? You look troubled."

"I do?" Adaman touched his face. Was he that easy to read?

Mai hummed an affirmative, turning so she was walking backward. "Something wrong?"

Adaman sighed, avoiding Mai's gaze. Was she trustworthy enough to know about Volo? She wasn't a gossip; she wouldn't go around telling others if Adaman asked her not to. "You have to promise not to tell anyone else."

Mai's eyebrows furrowed and she stopped walking. Once Adaman passed her, she dropped into step beside him. "Of course."

"You know about the rumors surrounding Volo?"

"Yeah, everyone does. No one's seen the guy for a long time, though. Everyone thinks he left Hisui to avoid punishment."

"That's not entirely true."

Mai tilted her head. "No?"

"Rei's been taking care of him. Well, me and Rei. He got hurt really badly due to some...circumstances."

It probably was better she didn't know that Volo had been punished by the Lake Guardians.

"Huh." Mai crossed her arms. "Never took you for a guy who'd do something like that for a criminal."

"I won't understand why he tried to do what he did," Adaman muttered, kicking a rock out of his way. "I won't understand, either. He has amnesia. I think that's why I feel kind of...bad for him."

Mai's expression softened. "Yeah, I think I get it. If I were in his shoes, I'd be confused about why people were yelling at me and calling me a criminal."

"Rei is leaving for Galar in a few weeks, so I'm trying to think of an easy way to break the news to the elders that we might have to watch Volo for a while."

"Ah." Mai nodded. "That's why you look upset."

"What can I do to convince them, Mai? Amnesia won't be enough to absolve him of his crimes."

"Whatever happens, I will be there to help you." Mai set a hand on Adaman's arm with a smile. "That's what siblings are for."

Adaman smiled in return. Mai was always a comforting presence to him as his blood sister. Older by two years, she was well-spoken and knew unorthodox ways of settling arguments. If it hadn't been for the fact Adaman had been born into leadership, he would have let her become the Diamond Clan's leader. Part of him had considered purposely letting Lord Wyrdeer deny him a chance at retaining his title so he could give it to Mai, but Wardens were disqualified from becoming Clan Leader. After all, they couldn't hold both titles.

Shaking his head to clear his thoughts, Adaman decided it was time to change the subject to something less depressing.

"You said you wanted to see Melli. Why?"

"He said he wanted to show me something." Mai reached into her pocket and pulled out an Aguav berry when Munchlax impatiently pulled on her leg.

"Munch!" Munchlax shoved the berry into his mouth when Mai dropped it into his paws.

Mai grinned at Munchlax before looking at Adaman. "I think it has something to do with Ingo."

"I thought they were on good terms."

"They are. Melli's mentioned it a few times, but I think he wants to gift something to Ingo."

"Oh." Adaman nodded. "That's nice of him."

Melli giving something to someone else was unusual. Usually, he was the one who expected gifts or something done for him.

Adaman hummed, crossing his arms. He remembered speaking to Ingo a few times and how the Pearl Clan Warden seemed fond of the prickly Melli. Even Melli seemed to calm down around Ingo, even if he was more huffy in return.

A gift…? Adaman thought, tilting his head.

Gasping as the realization hit him like a charging Rhyhorn, Adaman stared at Mai. "You mean like a courting gift?!"

Mai giggled, covering her mouth. "That took you long enough to figure out."

"But Ingo?!"

"Ingo is one the few people who can stand Melli. The two have shared space in the Highlands for about two years now. It was only a matter of time."

Adaman set a hand against his forehead, recalling all the times he had seen the wistful expression Melli shot towards Ingo's back or how he praised Ingo for the man's climbing ability without the aid of Lady Sneasler despite never praising anyone but himself. "I cannot believe I am just realizing this."

"I feel like you're the last one to know." Mai sighed, shaking her head. "Apart from Ingo. That man is denser than Lian's rock collection."

"What do you mean?"

"Melli has been dropping hints for months now and Ingo hasn't picked them up. So, Melli is hoping that the gift will finally get Ingo to realize his intentions."

That was a clever idea. Ingo knew the nuances of courting gifts between his clan and the Diamond Clan. People in the Diamond Clan would craft something and give it to their significant other. Crafting something extravagant like scarves or hard to carve tumblestone bracelets took time; time one was willing to give to their loved one. Of course, the courting gifts didn't used to be for those one had eyes on. Adaman remembered a time when crafting gifts were relegated to family and close friends. Now there was a distinction between the two types of gifts.

"What if Ingo doesn't get it even after the gift?" Adaman asked. It wasn't impossible. He had seen it take a few seconds for Ingo to realize he had been bitten by a Zubat.

Mai snickered. "Then Melli will probably throw Ingo off the Highlands."

"Let's hope it doesn't come to that."

Adaman didn't feel like explaining to Irida why Lady Sneasler's Warden ended up at the bottom of the mountain.

Adaman and Melli slowed to a stop as they approached Lord Electrode's arena. In front of the stone offering dishes were Ingo and Melli, facing each other with Gliscor and Skuntank.

"Oh, they're having a battle," Mai said as Skuntank launched himself towards Gliscor, tail glowing silver.

Adaman looked at Melli, examining his expression. It wasn't uncommon for Melli to start battles with people, but something about the battle felt off to Adaman.

Melli was furious, tears in the corner of his eyes, hands clenched.

Ingo, on the other hand, wore a confused and concerned expression.

"I don't think this is a friendly battle, Mai." Adaman took a step forward to stop the battle and see why the two were arguing.

Mai grabbed his arm, pulling him back.

"What are you doing?"

"Let's watch it play out,” Mai said, releasing Adaman.

"What are you talking about? We have to---"

"You can't Clan Leader your way into stopping all arguments. Let them hash it out."

"Wh..." Adaman looked back at Ingo and Melli as Gliscor slammed his tail into Skuntank's back. He sighed, stepping back. "All right, but if it gets bad, I'm stepping in."

Mai shrugged. "Sure."

“Night Slash!”

Skuntank snarled, raising his tail before swinging it down, unleashing an arc of dark energy.

Gliscor screeched when he was hit, dropping from the air. He flipped once, landing on his tail and using it to push himself into the air once more.

“Gliscor, Crab Hammer!” Ingo ordered. “Melli, please tell me what's wrong! Why are you angry with me?”

“I don't want to hear whatever excuse you have!” Melli yelled. “Skuntank, shut him up with Foul Play!”

Skuntank avoided Gliscor's water covered tail as it crashed into the ground beside him then sank his teeth into Gliscor's leg. Swinging him once, Skuntank slammed Gliscor into the ground.

“How can I make amends if I do not know what I did wrong?” Ingo asked as Gliscor struggled to get back to his feet. “Strong style X-scissor!”

“Gli…” Gliscor used his tail to launch himself at Skuntank, slamming his pinchers into Skuntank's side before swinging them out in an X.

Skuntank squealed as he slid back from the super effective attack before he shook his head.

“You know what you did wrong! Haze!”

Skuntank released a cloud of smoke from the tip of his tail. It spread between himself and Gliscor, obscuring vision and lowering move accuracy.

Ingo frowned, grabbing the brim of his hat before he began to stride towards Melli.

The movement startled Melli who took a step back. “Y-you stay right on your side of the court o-or I'll…I'll have Skuntank attack you directly!”

“Skun?!” Skuntank asked, baffled at his owner's statement.

“If that will alleviate your grievance towards me, then so be it.”

Melli took another step back as Ingo got closer, eyes darting side to side, searching for an escape route.

Ingo grabbed Melli’s wrist before he could make a move. “Tell me what I did wrong so I can rectify it.”

“Don't touch me,” Melli hissed, lashing out his free hand to slap Ingo.

Instead, Ingo caught Melli's wrist and used his ankle to trip Melli, smoothly bringing him to the ground. He used one knee to keep Melli pinned.

“How dare you!” Melli shrieked, struggling under Ingo's grasp. “Wait until Adaman hears about how you're treating me!”

Mai glanced at Adaman with a raised eyebrow.

Adaman raised his hands, taking a few steps back. He was not going to interrupt them.

“Tell me and I'll release you,” Ingo said, voice soft and patient. “Please.”

Melli stubbornly refused to look at Ingo and didn't respond for a while. Then he mumbled, “The girl. You kissed a girl.”

“Girl?” Ingo repeated, eyebrows furrowing. “What are you–”

Was Melli talking about the Pearl Clan girl that always insisted on following him during his safety checks of the Highlands? Now he knew what Melli was so upset over.

Heaving a sigh, Ingo stood and pulled Melli to his feet. “You daft, stupid man. I didn't kiss her.”

“Huh?” Melli sniffled as Ingo brushed the dirt off his clothes.

“Apparently, she'd gained a crush on me a few months back and decided to corner me while I was getting ready for departure. She kissed me. I told her I wasn't interested in her or women for that matter.”

“Oh.” Melli stared at the ground, running his hands over his braid. “I guess I got the wrong idea…”

“You never gave me a chance to explain before you launched into a battle.” Ingo took one of Melli's hands to stop him from tearing out his braid. He pressed his forehead against Melli's. “I could never choose to love another.”

"All's well that ends well," Mai said, chuckling as an embarrassed Melli pulled away from Ingo.

“I guess,” Adaman muttered.

Ingo caught sight of Adaman and Mai and waved an arm, calling, "Why, hello, Warden Mai and Clan Leader Adaman!"

"How long have you been there?!" Melli squawked, moving halfway behind Ingo like he would be able to hide behind the Pearl Clan Warden. "Go away!"

"Oh, but I thought you wanted to show me the courting gift," Mai teased, tilting her head and resting a finger against her cheek. "What a shame."

"Courting gift?" Ingo asked, looking at Melli. "What is she talking about?"

"Nothing! Don't pay attention to her."

"Melli, I wish to see this gift," Ingo insisted, staring at Melli intently. "You crafted it for me, correct? I wish to see the fruits of your labor."

A heavy blush crossed Melli's face before he grumbled, pulling out a scarf from the pocket of his jacket and shoving it at Ingo. "H-here!"

Ingo took the scarf, holding it up so he could get a better look at it.

Made from cold-resistant Flareon fur and dyed blue, the scarf had a stitched Diamond Clan symbol on one end and a Pearl Clan symbol on the other. Polished pieces of tumblestone were sewn into the insignias, facets painstakingly added onto the round stones to enable them to catch light and sparkle.

"I know you don't need a scarf since you seem immune to the cold like all Pearl Clan members," Melli said, folding his arms and cocking a hip as he looked away from Ingo, "but it was the easiest thing I know how to make."

"It's beautiful," Ingo murmured, wrapping the scarf around his neck. "Thank you."

"Ugh." Adaman looked away to avoid getting a face full of Melli kissing Ingo. "I guess as long as Melli is happy, that's all that matters to me."

"Our next steps should be hooking you up with someone," Mai teased, elbowing Adaman in the side.

Adaman rolled his eyes, stepping away from Mai's jabs. "I am not even remotely interested in anyone."

"Yet."

"Please stay out of my love life."

“Oh, Addie.” Mai clung to Adaman's arm, leaning against him with a grin. “That's what sisters are for.”

"I know I put them somewhere," Laventon muttered, picking up another journal and rifling through the pages. He groaned, tossing it to the ground before picking up another one. "Where are they?"

Rei released a long, drawn out sigh, leaning back in the chair behind Laventon's desk, rocking on the back legs. He was so bored of searching through the stacks and stacks of paper, looking for the copies of the notes Laventon had made on the evolutions of Typhlosion, Samurott, and Decidueye in Hisui versus their natural habitats.

It had only been a few days since the letter from the Galar Professor's Association had arrived and Laventon was in a flurry, trying to piece together all his notes before the departure in over a week.

“This is so boring,” Akari muttered, lying upside down on Laventon's couch. She was folding paper in half before turning down the top sections into wings and tossing them into the air.

Pikachu was curled up beside her, taking a nap. His tail curled around his face. 

"Are you certain you don't have your Pokédex?" Laventon asked, staring at Rei with pathetic eyes.

Rei avoided the gaze, scratching his cheek. He couldn't tell Laventon the Pokédex was up in Sinnoh Temple, pages ripped out and illegible after the rain storms that had passed through. Besides, by then, Murkrow were bound to have taken the Pokédex to use its pages as lining amongst the jewels and shiny rocks that adorned their nests.

"Sorry, I dropped it in a river and couldn't fish it out in time."

Laventon groaned, draping himself pathetically over a stack of books on his desk. "Where could I have put those copies...?"

Cyllene entered the office with two cups of tea. She shook her head when she saw Laventon's miserable state. "Really, you're stressing yourself out for no reason. It's not like you're leaving today."

"You don't understand. I have to find those copies to show the council proof. They'll be more likely to approve my research with physcial proof besides Ace and the other two."

"Stressing won't help you find them." Cyllene set the cups of tea down, brushing Laventon's hair out of his face. "Why not take a break and perhaps you'll remember where you put the papers?"

"I suppose you're right."

"Ew, gross!" Akari and Rei yelled when Cyllene planted a kiss on Laventon's cheek.

Laventon pulled himself off his books, taking the cup of tea Cyllene offered. "This does smell delightful."

"It's Pecha tea with some lemongrass extract." Cyllene took a sip of her tea.

"How come we don't get any?" Akari asked, pouting at Cyllene.

"You two get some if you find Laventon's papers," Cyllene replied, taking another sip of her tea.

"No fair," Rei grumbled as Akari whined. "That's like looking for a shiny Garchomp among an outbreak of regular Garchomp."

"Then, you don't get any tea."

Rei leaned his head back with a groan.

The front door to Laventon's office opened and Beauregard stumbled inside, Beauticia asleep on top of his head.

"Pardon my intrusion!" Beauregard said, saluting as he came to a stop.

Cyllene immediately darted into her office, slamming the door. "Beauregard, at least warn me before you come in with that beast!"

“Beast…?” Beauregard muttered, offended on Beauticia's behalf. “Beauticia is the cutest thing in the world and she wouldn't hurt anyone!”

“Why did you leave your post, Beauregard?” Cyllene snapped. “Hurry and get back to it!”

“I have an urgent message for Professor Laventon!"

"For me?" Laventon asked. "What is it?"

"A ship is docked in the harbor of Prelude Beach and a smaller rowboat is at the dock. The oarsman says that the captain of the ship is there to pick him up to transport him to Galar immediately!”

Laventon, Rei, and Akari all blinked at Beauregard as they took in his statement.

When it finally sunk in, the tea cup slipped from Laventon's grasp. “What?!”

When the cup shattered, Pikachu hopped up from his nap, back arched and sparks flying from his cheeks.

Rei leaned too far back in the chair and fell to the ground with a thud when he lost his balance. He rubbed his head as he popped to his feet. "The fuck?!"

"I thought the ship wasn't due for another week!" Akari yelped, flipping over and scrambling to her feet. "I'm not even packed yet!"

“Pi!” Pikachu chased after her. “Pika!”

"Why is the ship here?" Rei asked, digging his nails into Laventon's desk. "I thought it wasn't coming for two weeks!”

"I don't know!" Laventon set his palm against his forehead. "Perhaps they sent the ship ahead of the letter..."

"Just great," Rei hissed, launching himself over the desk and running out of Galaxy Hall.

He sprinted to his house and went inside, shutting the door before leaning against it, catching his breath.

Adaman glanced towards him. He and Volo appeared to be playing some sort of card game.

"Wow, you look like you've seen a ghost," Adaman teased, setting the cards in his hand down.

"The ship's here," Rei said.

"Ship?" Adaman repeated, raising an eyebrow. "You'll have to be more specific. Like, a merchant ship?"

"The ship to Galar. It's here."

Adaman stared at Rei for a few moments before the color drained from his face. "Oh. Oh, no."

Rei moved towards Adaman urgently. "Tell me you've talked to your clan already."

"Of course not! I thought I had more time!"

"What's going on?" Volo asked, looking between Rei and Adaman. "Are we moving already?"

"This is just great," Rei muttered vehemently. "We don't have another place to move him to."

“Do we have any idea on a good place where he can stay?” Adaman asked.

Rei shook his head. “I can't think of any.”

The sound of Rei's door opening caught everyone's attention. Akari stepped past the threshold, already taking her shoes off.

"What kind of clothes do you think I'll need for--" Akari stopped, staring at Rei, Adaman, and Volo. "Uh...."

"Oh, no..." Adaman muttered.

“Who is that?” Volo asked.

Rei smacked his face. He had forgotten to put the barrier up and Akari was back to her old ways of coming into his house without knocking.

This was just what they needed.

Chapter Text

Laventon tossed another stack of papers into the growing pile on the sofa. Even in his harried state, he was attempting to keep some sort of tracking system so he wouldn't look over papers he had already grabbed.

He had practically turned his office upside down in his desperate search for the paperwork he had written on the Hisuian forms of Typhlosion, Samurott, and Decidueye yet they remained elusive.

"Where did I put them...?" Laventon gazed around his office, searching for any section that he had already rummaged through. He grabbed his beanie, pulling it off to ruffle his hair in frustration. "Bollocks, of all times..."

Cyllene stepped up to Laventon's side, taking one of his wrists in her hand so he wouldn't pull his hair out. "Lav, calm down. You becoming a panicked mess will not help."

"I have to find the paperwork! The council is not as forgiving as you think. If I don't have all my Duckletts in a row…and the ship..."

"Why don't I go ask the ship's captain for a little more time?" Cyllene suggested, eager to eliminate one of Laventon's stressors. "I'm sure he would be more than understanding since you received the letter shortly before they arrived. You've had no time to prepare for the journey ahead."

Tears gathered in Laventon's eyes and he grabbed both of Cyllene's hands, squeezing them. "You would do that?"

"Of course." Cyllene resisted the urge to roll her eyes at Laventon's pathetic expresion even as the corners of her mouth twitched. He looked like a Bonsly about to use Fake Tears. "Everything will be fine. You'll see."

"I do hope you're right."

"I'll be back." Cyllene looked at Abra floating nearby. "Abra, help him out."

"Bra." Abra's eyes glowed and several pieces of paper flew towards her.

Cyllene nodded, walking out of Laventon's office and leaving Galaxy Hall. She gave a wide berth to Beauregard as she passsed him and Beauticia sleeping on his head.

"Are you going to see the ship in Prelude Bay?" Beauregard asked as Cyllene passed him. The tone of his voice suggested he wanted to come with her to stare to gawk at the ship.

"Stay at your post," Cyllene responded, not sparing him a glance. She did not want to be followed by him or his disgusting flying bug.

Already at the beach were a few curious villagers, staring at the ship docked in the bay and murmuring amongst themselves.

Cyllene couldn't blame them for being awestruck by the boat. It was pretty impressive.

A clipper, a boat built for speed and popular among merchants. It was supposedly a more common ship with Kalosian folk, but Unova also used them for trade. While clipper ships could carry limited bulk freight, that didn't account for the ship's crew and travelers. That made clippers even more popular if one wanted to get from one region to another in less time than another ship--like the favored galleon--took to travel the same distance.

The figurehead of the ship was carved into the shape of an unfamiliar Pokémon. A beautiful figure resided inside a shell, a sharp horn jutting from the top.

At the pier was a rowboat that could fit six people, including the oarsman. The oarsman appeared bored, sitting in the hull of the rowboat and leaning back against one of the seats.

He looked to be in his mid-thirties with short white hair and striking golden eyes. A small scar crossed the bridge of his nose horizontally. Tan skin revealed hours of work under the sun.

At Cyllene's approach, the oarsman looked up, raising an eyebrow.

"You don't look like no Professor."

A Western accent spoken in Hisuian was not a combination Cyllene had expected coming from the oarsman.

"I am sorry to disappoint." Cyllene stared at the oarsman, keeping her hands behind her back. "I've come to ask the ship's captain for more time. We've had no chance to prepare."

The oarsman sniffed, glancing back at the ship swaying in the bay. "Dunno if I want to do that. Seems like a lot of effort."

Cyllene felt her patience start to wane. It wouldn't do to get angry at the oarsman, especially if it would reflect poorly on Laventon.

With a sigh, Cyllene reached into her pocket and grabbed a coin, flicking it at the oarsman. "500 Pokéyen. Is that enough incentive?"

The oarsman studied the coin in his hand before he smiled. "Give me a few minutes. I'll be back in two shakes of an Emolga's tail."

I don't even know what that is, Cyllene thought, watching the oarsman row towards the clipper.

She waited patiently for him to return. Even though it took only a few minutes for the oarsman to row back to the dock, it felt even longer to her.

"Captain says a few hours, but that's as long as he'll wait," the oarsman said. "We have cargo that has time restraints. We need to leave by sunset to make it back to Galar before it spoils."

Cyllene inclined her head at the oarsman, then for extra measure, tossed another 500 Pokéyen his way. “Thank you.”

She'd pass on the news to Rei and Akari then help Laventon find the paperwork he was desperately searching for.

"Oh, so that's why you were acting so weird," Akari said with a laugh.

Rei sighed, shoulders dropping as relief flooded through him. Perhaps he had been wrong to keep the secret of Volo from her. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner. I just..."

He glanced into the bedroom where Volo and Adaman were sitting.

Thankfully, Pikachu had hopped from Akari's shoulders to see Volo. Volo, curious as ever, held out a hand for the electric rodent to sniff. Once he got an affirmative ear flick, Volo stroked between Pikachu's ears, earning a delighted squeak.

With Volo distracted from his questions of who Akari was, Rei could explain the entire situation to her and catch her up to speed.

"It's all right." Akari smiled, though it had a hint of sadness in the corners. "You wanted to make sure I didn't accidentally tell Cyllene or Professor Laventon."

"If Cyllene knew, she would tell Kamado. I don't trust him to think clearly when he learns the instigator of the Frenzies and rifts is in the village."

Akari nodded slowly, folding her arms over her chest. "Yeah. He did react poorly during the Red Sky Event."

"Yeah."

The reminder of his exile always left a bitter taste on his tongue.

Akari moved past Rei and stepped into the bedroom. She kneeled in front of Volo who looked up at her approach. "It's nice to meet you, Volo. I'm Akari, a friend of Rei's."

"You're his friend?" Volo asked, shaking Akari's hand when she held it out. "I was beginning to think Adaman and Arezu were his only friends."

"Now that hurts." Rei leaned against the entrance to the bedroom, crossing his arms. With five Pokémon and three humans, it was getting a little crowded. It was better if he stayed near the edge. "I have a lot more friends than you know about."

Something in the quick smile Volo shot his way made Rei realize that he had been teasing. Something the old Volo had done the first time he had met Lian and joked that Rei was bold, making friends with the Wardens of opposing clans.

Rei looked away, tigthening the grip on his arms.

"That's a beautiful bracelet," Volo said, staring at the black tumblestone bracelet on Akari's right wrist. "Tumblestones. Hard to craft into such small balls and bore a hole into them for string. Someone took a lot of time to do that for you."

Akari smiled, pulling her hands agisnt her chest, covering the bracelet with her left hand. "Rei made it for me. It's a friendship bracelet!"

Rei pointedly ignored the smug look Adaman shot his way and pushed off the wall.

"Anyway!" he said, desperate to get the conversation off himself. "We aren't sure what to do with Volo. The ship came sooner than expected, so Adaman hasn't had time to speak to his clan about watching him while we're away."

"Oh, that's easy." Akari flapped a hand. "He can just come with us."

"Come with...?" Rei released a sharp breath. "Akari, he can't just 'come with' us. You know that."

Akari shrugged, picking Pikachu up and shoving him in Volo's face to keep the other distracted. "Why not? He has no memories, so it's not like he can be charged for crimes he doesn't remember committing."

"What was that for?" Volo asked, prying a displeased Pikachu off his face to shoot a sour look at Akari.

"I just wanted you to smell him!" Akari smiled sweeetly. "All Pikachu have different scents! Mine smells like Pecha berries."

"Pika." Pikachu pinned his ears back, unhappy about being used as a scapegoat to distract Volo from certain bits of conversation.

"Really?" Volo held Pikachu up, staring at him thoughtfully. "I thought he had Pecha berries recently."

"She is right, you know," Adaman said, lowering his voice as he moved to Rei's side.

Rei exhaled, considering Akari's suggestion.

Volo was healing well. He could move around, with a bit of help. Rei had seen him hobbling around the room, Adaman nearby to support him if he fell.

Rei knew what Volo was feeling without him putting it into words.

Volo was growing anxious. Bored, stuck in the same room for so long.

There was no time for Adaman to try and convince the Diamond Clan Elders to allow Volo to stay in the settlement. Rei couldn't just leave Volo alone in the house and expect Adaman to visit multiple times a day to check in on him.

Eventually, Volo would grow restless enough to leave the house and be seen by villagers who would alert Cyllene and Kamado to his presence. They wouldn't wait for evidence to prove his amnesia before passing judgment.

The only option was to bring him.

Professor Laventon would be the easiest to convince. He couldn't hurt a Beautifly.

However, the departure of the village's beloved Professor would draw everyone to Prelude Beach, including Cyllene and Kamado.

Rei frowned, steepling his fingers and resting his forehead against them.

They were going to be the only stumbling blocks to allowing Volo aboard the ship.

Adaman dropped a hand onto Rei's shoulder, startling him out of his thoughts. When he looked up, Adaman was grinning.

"I'll see you guys off when you leave. There will be a lot of explaining to do, but how could they deny that it's a winning situation? He goes with you guys and that means he's not a threat to Hisui."

Rei couldn't deny that Adaman was right. Even with the rumors, even with Cyllene and Kamado's hesitance to let Volo slip free of their judgment, this was the best solution. No one would have to fear Volo if he wasn't in Hisui.

"I guess you're right."

There was a sharp rap at Rei's door and everyone froze.

Rei held up a hand, staring at the shadow standing outside. The outline looked like--

"You have a few more hours to prepare," Cyllene said. "I've asked the captain of the ship for leniency because of the short notice. Make sure you bring everything you need."

"All right," Rei replied. "Thanks."

Cyllene's shadow inclined her head before turning and departing.

Once the footsteps had receded, everyone sighed.

Rei chuckled, setting a hand against his forehead. Of course Cyllene would pull some strings to delay their departure.

A few hours. That would give them plenty of time to prepare.

"Then I'll finish getting ready." Akari stood, Pikachu perched on her shoulder. "I'll see you guys at Prelude Beach."

"Don't overpack," Rei called as Akari went to the door. "We probably won't be there long."

Akari stuck her tongue out at Rei before shutting the door.

Rei sighed, shaking his head.

"Has he had a bath since you've had him?" Adaman asked, gesturing at Volo.

"Oh." Rei looked at Volo.

Now that he thought about it, he hadn't let Volo have a bath. He'd only gotten his wounds clean and his hair clean in order to cut it.

"I'll take that as a no," Adaman guessed, shaking his head. "I'll get him to the bathhouse while you finish packing."

"You don't have to--"

"Finish packing." Adaman helped Volo to his feet before releasing him. "Got it?"

Volo nodded, following Adaman to the door, albeit at a slower pace and a slight limp in his step.

Kai followed behind him with Thyme and his siblings at Adaman's heels.

Once Adaman had glanced outside to make sure no one was within eyesight of Rei's house, he moved to the side to let Volo out.

It appeared that everyone in the village had gone to Prelude Beach to gawk at the ship in the bay. If Adaman hadn't been helping Volo, he would have been doing the same thing. It wasn't every day a ship appeared in Hisui, after all.

Even from where he stood, Adaman saw the masts of the ship towering in the distance, barren tree trunks amidst the blue sky. The ship's sails were furled. Judging from the masts, the ship had to be massive.

All that pomp and circumstance for a Professor? Adaman wondered, squinting to get a better look at the masts.

He couldn't be sure, but it appeared as if there were someone standing in the Murkrow's Nest.

It was as if they were coming to pick up royalty or something, using an eye-catching ship.

"Impressive, huh?" Ginter asked, following Adaman's gaze. "Came from Galar, I guess. Or perhaps another region altogether.”

Adaman looked at Ginter. He hadn't even realized the merchant was there. "Not going to stare at it with the rest of the village?"

"Nah, not my thing." Ginter shrugged before leaning back, staring at Volo. "Hello, Volo."

"That's Ginter," Adaman explained when Volo looked at him. "He's the owner of the Gingko Merchants."

"Gingko Merchants," Volo repeated, furrowing his eyebrows as he stared at Ginter. "Do I know you?"

A somber expression crossed Ginter's face. He shook his head, resting his elbows on his knees. "Well, you don't know me, but I know you."

Volo tilted his head slightly, but whatever he was about to ask turned to a gasp when he saw Chrono curled around Ginter's feet. "Is that a Luxray?"

Chrono raised her head when Volo approached, ears perked. When offered a hand, she sniffed it politely before bumping her head against Volo's palm.

"Did you know they have the most amazing eyesight and can even see through objects?" Volo rubbed Chrono's cheeks, earning a delighted purr. "They also sleep a lot to recover lost electricity. Electricity is vital since they live in packs, where their claws are used as means of silent communication during hunts."

Ginter chuckled softly at Volo's rambling of Luxray. "Funny what the mind remembers..."

"Huh?" Volo looked up at Ginter.

"Oh, nothing. Seeing through objects, eh? Sounds pretty useful."

"Come on, Volo," Adaman said. "We should get you bathed so you're ready to go."

"Right." Volo stood then followed Adaman who was already making his way to Galaxy Hall. He waved at Ginter. "It was nice to meet you, Ginter."

"You as well, Volo. Enjoy your bath."

Thankfully, it looked like Beauregard had also followed the villagers to Prelude Beach, leaving the entrance to Galaxy Hall unguarded.

Inside, Laventon was darting between his bookcase and his desk, far too busy to even notice Adaman as he led Volo towards the west wing.

"So, we're going to this Galar region because the association of professors doesn't believe Laventon completed his hypothesis?" Volo asked, trailing Adaman into the bathhouse.

Adaman nodded. "That's the short end of it."

"Huh." Volo frowned while Adaman asked Magmar to heat up the water. "Why not just send a photograph of the results of the hypothesis? Is that not proof enough?"

Adaman chuckled, opening a locker and pulling out a towel. "You know, I'm sure Rei asked the same thing. Unfortunately, it sounds like these association folks are sticklers for rules and if Laventon doesn't go to Galar to show them in person, they could make it so that he could never become a professor again."

"They sound like assholes."

A laugh bubbled up before Adaman could stop it.

He had never heard Volo curse before and he was certain Volo had picked it up from Rei.

Volo tilted his head at Adaman's reacion. "Did I say something strange?"

"No, no, ignore me." Adaman waved a hand as he set the towel where it wouldn't get wet. He approached Volo. "Let me take the bandages off; I'll get some clean ones to put on after the bath."

Volo took off his shirt then held out his arm so Adaman could take off the bandages and examine the three puckered, pink slashes.

"They feeling all right?"

"Just tight and itchy."

Adaman nodded, moving to Volo's back to look at the largest injuries. "Pretty common when things heal. Just try not to scratch or pick at any scabs forming. Rei tried to limit scarring."

"All right."

Adaman wondered if the old Volo would have teased him about being so concerned about his health or how scars didn't bother him. A lot of scars covered Volo's chest and midsection, some more obvious than others. Marks Adaman hadn't truly noticed before. Small slashes, leathery burn patches, a laceration down the side of his chest.

Scars were a fact of life in the world they lived in. Adaman had scars, Rei had scars. Even Laventon had a scar from a run-in with a very angry Scyther.

Adaman shook his head quickly to clear his thoughts. He had other things to focus on.

"Why don't you get in and I'll find some shampoo."

"Sure." Volo stepped into the bath, leaning against the side. He sighed, closing his eyes.

Adaman couldn't help but smile at the reaction. It must have felt amazing, having a warm bath after so long.

He walked towards the shampoo locker to let Volo have some peace.

Kai hovered nearby, single eye tracking Adaman's movements as if it suspected that Adaman would try something while alone with Volo.

Tempo was already floating on his back in the water, purring in contentment.

Thyme sat near the center of the bath, ears drooped as he soaked in the warm water.

Eon, on the other hand, watched her siblings from the sidelines, staring at them like they were heathens as she groomed a paw.

Adaman chuckled at the Eeveelutions reactions to the bathhouse, opening the shampoo locker. He stared at the multiple bottles lining the three shelves, picking one up to see what it said.

Here he thought Melli had the most beauty products.

Volo was being extremely quiet, so Adaman looked over his shoulder to make sure Volo hadn't fallen asleep from the warmth.

Volo had slid down slightly so he could rest his head against the floor and stare at the ceiling.

Satisfied that Volo wasn't accidentally drowning himself, Adaman went back to searching through the variety of shampoos.

"Can I ask you something?"

Adaman paused when he heard Volo's voice, setting down another bottle of shampoo. "Sure, go ahead."

"Did I hurt Rei?"

Hesitating, Adaman made a show of grabbing another bottle in case Volo was watching him for his reaction.

Where had that question come from?

"Why do you ask that?"

"Sometimes, it feels like he's trying too hard to be nice to me."

Adaman glanced at Volo to see him with both palms pressed against his eyes.

"Maybe I'm overthinking it, but I think he knows me even though he acts like he doesn't. It feels like he's hiding something from me and you're all in on it."

Biting his lip, Adaman stared at the shampoo bottle in his hands. It wasn't like he enjoyed lying to Volo. It was a necessary evil; a potential to prevent Volo getting the wrong idea and beating himself up over something that couldn't be changed or worse, Volo leading himself down the same path because he felt he was expected to do so as the 'villain'.

"That's...something you'll have to ask Rei," Adaman said, making sure his voice didn't waver.

"So, he does know me?" Volo sat up, turing to stare at Adaman expectantly.

Crap. Maybe he should have just stayed silent.

Adaman struggled to maintain eye contact with Volo. If he looked away, it would be admitting guilt.

Volo stared at him a few moments longer before he looked away. "I'm sorry. I don't know why I'm even asking you this."

"No, it's okay," Adaman said quickly, walking over to Volo. "I suppose I'd want to know if I were in your shoes."

"Would Rei even tell me?"

"I don't know. You'd have to ask him."

Volo stared at the surface of the water and his reflection before he set his hand against the water, distorting it. "I'm just frustrated. Every time I think I remember something, it burns and scatters before I can hold it and I'm left with a hollow sense of loss."

Where was Mai when you needed her? She was better at the emotions thing.

"It's...it's probably better to not try and force yourself to remember too soon," Adaman said, hoping he sounded like he knew what he was saying. "You'll remember as time goes on, I'm sure."

"Yeah. Thanks for letting me vent."

"Well..." Adaman rubbed the back of his neck with one hand as he held out the bottle of shampoo to Volo. "Sometimes it's nice to just have someone listen to your grievances."

Volo smiled then looked at the bottle in his hand. "Pecha berries and cream?"

"You want a different one, go pick it yourself."

The plan was simple: Rei and Akari would join Laventon and the rest of Jubilife at Prelude Beach to say their farewells. Adaman and Volo would remain in the distance, hidden from sight. Once the villagers had departed after saying their goodbyes, they would come out of hiding and Adaman would speak to Kamado and Cyllene.

The entire village had come to see Professor Laventon off. Even the Wardens and Irida had come. Everyone wished Laventon luck on his journey. Lian stared at the ship in the bay, awestruck by its size and wondering what material its figurehead was made from.

After a while, with all goodbyes and well wishes said, people slowly trickled back to the village to return to their duties.

Volo, for his credit, hadn't ask once why he and Adaman had to wait until everyone left before joining Rei and the others.

Adaman emerged from the hiding spot, Volo by his side, the moment the beach was deserted except for Laventon, Rei, Akari, Kamado, and Cyllene.

"Ah, Clan Leader Adaman," Cyllene said when she spotted him approaching. "I was beginning to think you were--"

The moment her eyes landed on Volo, her posture stiffened. Beside her, Abra growled quietly, sensing the change in her owner's emotions. The tip of her tail twitched in agitation.

Kai narrowed its eye at Abra, warbling a warning against any potential attack.

Kamado reached for his waist, where his katana normally rested. When he seemingly remembered he had left his weapon back at Galaxy Hall, Kamado settled for a steely gaze. "Clan Leader Adaman, what is the meaning of this?"

"Just give me a second to explain it to you, all right?" Adaman raised a hand to calm the two as he looked at Volo. "Go on. I got this."

"If you're sure." Volo glanced at Kamado and Cyllene before he walked towards Laventon and the two teens.

Kai shot the two a scathing glare as it trailed after Volo.

Laventon gasped at Volo's approach, staring at Kai in excitement. "Is that a Sigilyph?!"

"This is Kai," Volo said, setting a hand on Kai's side.

"Amazing!" Laventon circled Kai, who released a displeased trill, eye narrowing at the invasion of its space. "Sigilyph are so rare! I've heard they're more common in places with lots of ancient ruins."

"Ancient ruins?" Akari repeated, fascinated with the beginnings of Laventon's ramble.

"There's a theory going around that Sigilyph migrates between two sets of ruins, likely many miles apart. They're said to be connected to ancient civilizations. Possibly guardians or even missionaries."

Connected to ancient civilizations? Rei wondered, glancing at Volo.

He remembered Volo claiming to have Celestica blood in him. The only Celestica that Rei knew of were the Celestica Flute and the ruins in the Highlands; similar ruins were scattered throughout Hisui, but no names were tied to them. Their architectural style was similar to the Celestica Ruins, so it was highly likely they were also built by the Celestica.

If Sigilyph were theorized to travel between ruins, then it was possible that Kai had been on a return migration to the Celestica Ruins and just happened to come across Volo by sheer luck.

If so, then why protect Volo from the Lake Guardians? Had it sensed the Celestica blood in him? Is that why Kai also stayed by Volo's side, no Poké Ball required, as some kind of obligation to the Celestica people?

A jab at Rei's side startled Rei out of his thoughts and the inner workings of Sigilyph.

He glanced to his side to see Akari staring at him. She tilted her head at Laventon, who was still enamored by Kai.

"Oh, right," Rei muttered. He had completely forgotten to ask Laventon. "Professor, is it alright if Volo comes with us?"

"To Galar?" Laventon asked, attention breaking away from Kai as he looked at Rei. "Hm." He glanced at Volo who was staring at him expectantly. "Well, I don't see an issue with that."

Volo smiled. "Thank you for letting me come, Professor."

"No thanks needed, my boy. Always better with more company."

Adaman approached with Cyllene and Kamado by his side. The latter two wore disgruntled expressions.

"We'll see you when you return," Cyllene said, her expression softening when she looked at Laventon. "Try not to be too long."

Laventon stepped closer to Cyllene, taking her hand in his. "I'll bring back a souvenir for you."

Kamado ignored the two, turning his attention to Rei and Akari. "Try not to get into trouble."

"We'll try not to," Akari replied, kicking Rei's ankle before he could say anything.

"Good." Kamado's gaze slid to Volo and lingered for a few moments before he turned and walked away.

Cyllene hugged Laventon before stepping back. "You should go before you keep the captain waiting any longer. I'm sure he's growing impatient."

"I'll send you a letter with the fastest Corvisquire to let you know we arrived safely," Laventon promised. “A photo, too.”

"I'll wait for it." Cyllene hesitated then turned and walked back to the village, leaving only Adaman as the final person seeing the group off.

"I'll talk to the clans while you're gone," Adaman said. "Perhaps by the time you return, everything will be smoothed out."

"Thanks for all your help, Adaman," Rei said. "We shouldn't be gone too long."

Adaman smiled. "You know where to find me."

"I'll race you to the boat!" Akari said, slapping Rei's back before bolting to the rowboat docked at the pier.

"No fair!" Rei ran after her. "You got a head start!"

Laventon chuckled, following the two at a leisurely pace.

"Keep an eye on Rei," Adaman said. "He can be a little troublesome when left to his own devices."

Volo nodded. "Of course. Good luck with your clan."

"Tell me about Galar when you return. I'd like to hear about it." Adaman waved as he turned and walked away.

Thyme, Tempo, and Eon stayed back, staring at Volo with sad expressions. One by one, they followed Adaman.

Volo watched Adaman and his partners depart before he turned to join Laventon, Rei, and Akari at the pier.

"Stop pushing!" Akari whined, shoving against Rei as he attempted to get into the boat before her. "I got here first!"

"Only because you cheated!"

The oarsman groaned, tilting his head back. He was desperate to get back to the main ship so they could set sail.

Kai released a distressed screech.

Rei turned at the noise to see Volo lying in the sand, clutching his neck. "Volo?!"

He ran to Volo's side, kneeling and glancing him over.

There wasn't anything that stood out to why Volo had collapsed. Other than the Red Chain glowing faintly, Rei couldn't figure out why Volo appeared to be in pain, breath wheezing.

"What's wrong with him?" Akari asked, running over to Rei and Volo with Laventon right behind her.

"I don't know. I can't see anything wrong."

"Lea!"

Rei looked up to see Thyme bounding over, siblings by his side and Adaman behind him.

"What's wrong?" Adaman asked, slowing to a stop. "Thyme practically dragged me back here."

Volo's grip on the Red Chain loosened, breaths coming out short and sharp.

A giggle resounded around the group as Mesprit appeared nearby. Well, isn't that interesting.

"Mesprit." Rei scowled as he got to his feet. "What are you doing here?"

Oh, you seemed to be struggling trying to figure out why the Tarnished One is in pain. Mesprit circled around Rei, a sly smile crossing their face.

Tarnished One and Defiler...both were terms for Volo, as if the Lake Guardians refused to say his name. Dehumanizing him by tagging him with epithets.

Rei kept his expression neutral. Mesprit was the Being of Emotion and while they had bestowed emotion upon humanity, Rei was wholly aware that they also enjoyed trying to feed off others’ feelings.

Oh, but this isn't something I expected when I gifted him the Red Chain. Mesprit leaned on Rei's shoulder, one tail brushing the underside of his chin. History does enjoy repeating itself.

"Take it off."

Take it off? Mesprit repeated, scandalized as they shot off Rei's shoulder. Why would I do that? This brings me great joy to see him on the ground like this.

"What does the Red Chain even do?" Adaman asked, helping Volo to his feet once he had caught his breath.

You truly haven't figured it out? Mesprit crossed their arms as they leaned back in the air. The Red Chain reacts when the Tarnished One's formed a bond with someone. If he or that person stray too far from one another, it will activate and tighten until the two are within proximity of each other.

"It chokes him?!" Rei snarled, grabbing Wisp's Poké Ball.

Mesprit raised a paw, surrounding Rei with a psychic energy to freeze him in place. Ah, ah. Such violent emotions.

"Wait, you said it reacts to someone he's formed a bond with," Akari said. "Do you know who the bond is with?"

Mesprit snickered gleefully, pointing their other paw at Adaman.

Chapter Text

Have fun, Mesprit sang, twirling once before disappearing.

Rei staggered slightly when he was released from Mesprit's psychic grip. He glared at the sky then snarled, “Maldito gilipollas! Get back here!”

"So, Adaman has to come with us to Galar?" Akari asked, sounding far too excited for Adaman's growing headache.

Adaman exhaled sharply, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I can't just abandon my clan to go to Galar, Akari."

"Sorry," Volo muttered, keeping his gaze on the ground. His fingers dug into the Red Chain buried in his neck as if he could pry it out and throw it away. "This is my fault."

"No, it's not," Adaman said, taking Volo's wrist and pulling his hand away. He was making himself bleed.

"It's Mesprit's fault," Rei agreed with a nod. "None of us knew what that Red Chain did, least of all you."

"Oi, are you coming or not?!" the oarsman yelled.

"We can't keep the captain waiting any longer," Laventon said. "Adaman, what are you going to do?"

Adaman sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. He would be lying if he said he wasn't interested in visiting Galar. The only problem was his clan. He couldn't leave them without a leader. "I'll ask Mai. She's watched my leadership for years, so she's more than qualified to take care of the clan until we return."

"Then we'll ask the captain for more time until you return," Rei said. "It isn't sunset yet, so another hour or two can't hurt."

The oarsman groaned. "How hard is it to just get in the boat?"

"Here." Rei rummaged in the satchel attached to his waist before pulling out two gold nuggets. He tossed them at the oarsman. "Worth a lot of money."

"Where did you even get those?" Laventon asked as the oarsman eyed the golden nuggets greedily.

Rei shrugged casually. "Space-Time Distortions."

"I suppose I can petition the captain for another hour of time," the oarsman drawled, pocketing the nuggets. "Only an hour, though."

"We appreciate your service," Rei said.

"Why even bring those with you?" Akari asked.

"Because we could sell them for money," Rei explained. "I only brought a handful, though."

"Can you call Lord Wyrdeer?" asked Adaman, pulling up the hood attached to Volo's Diamond Clan jacket. "He should be fast enough to catch up to Mai."

"Sure." Rei whistled Wyrdeer's tune.

Moments later, the Lord of the Woods leaped down from the hills to their left and trotted towards them.

Wyrdeer laid down the moment Adaman approached with Volo by his side.

Kai whistled quietly, staring at Wyrdeer as the two humans climbed into Wyrdeer's saddle.

Wyrdeer snorted. The black orbs in his antlers flickered in response. He climbed to his feet once Adaman and Volo were situated.

"Take us to Mai," Adaman ordered.

Wyrdeer nodded, trotting towards Jubilife with Kai and the Eeveelutions by his side.

"Good luck!" Akari called. "We'll be right here when you come back!"

The moment he was past the village gates, Wyrdeer took off at a gallop, making his way to the east gate.

A few curious townsfolk watched Adaman ride past, murmuring about the Diamond Clan villager in the saddle behind him. Others gaped at Kai in wonder.

Adaman sighed internally, glad his clan crafted clothes with hoods. It would have been more difficult to travel through Jubilife with Volo's face exposed.

"Do you think Mai will say yes to you coming to Galar?" Volo asked, grimacing as Wyrdeer leaped over the river separating Aspiration Hill and Deertrack Path. He held onto Adaman's waist to avoid being thrown off.

A twinge of guilt went through Adaman. The ride was pretty rough on his injuries, but there wasn't a high risk of the stitches popping.

"I'm sure she will," Adaman said. "The only problem is I'll have to tell the elders."

"Are we going to your village then?"

"We'll have to."

It was something Adaman dreaded. The villagers were bound to despise Volo coming there, with the rumors of what he had done. The elders especially would hate it.

I'll have to use that to get my way, Adaman thought, gripping Wyrdeer's reins tighter.

He wasn't one to use his power to subvert the elders unless it was truly necessary. The only question was what the test would be.

Wyrdeer slowed to a stop, snorting softly.

They had crossed from the Fieldlands into the Mirelands. In the distance was Mai, attempting to pull Munchlax out of a tree swarming with Combee.

"Munchlax, come on!" Mai whined, yanking on Munchlax who stubbornly clung to the trunk. "We have honey at home!"

"Laaaax!"

"Looks like she needs help." Adaman slid from Wyrdeer's saddle and walked towards Mai.

Volo followed suit, stumbling slightly when his feet touched the ground.

Wyrdeer lowered his head to support Volo before nudging him towards Adaman.

The Combee buzzed angrily, several ramming into Munchlax, who seemed unbothered by the attacks as he continued scaling the tree.

As Adaman got closer, he saw why Munchlax was so focused: a Combee hive settled neatly between the branches, honey dripping down the bark.

The hive was guarded by male Combee while the females and the hive Vespiquen went in search of pollen and nectar.

"Better get Munchlax down before the Vespiquen returns," Adaman said. "Eon, Psychic."

"Bre." Eon's eyes glowed, surrounding Munchlax with blue energy.

Munchlax was pried off the tree and carried closer to Adaman.

Mai sighed, jogging over to Adaman as Eon set Munchlax on the ground. "Thanks for the save, Addie."

Munchlax turned the moment he was released and began to waddle back toward the Combee hive.

Eon pinned her ears back at Munchlax's persistence then used Psychic to hold him in place.

"Munchlax really likes his honey, huh?" Volo asked with a slight chuckle.

"Mirelands honey is the best honey," Mai bragged before she stared at Volo. "Wait, who are you?"

Volo pulled down the hood and Mai clapped her hands together.

"Oh, hey, Volo! You look like you're feeling better."

Before Volo could ask questions, Adaman stepped closer to Mai. "I have a favor to ask."

"Okay?" Mai tilted her head.

"Something's come up and I have to–” Adaman stopped himself then amended, “I want to go to Galar with Rei and the others."

"Something?" Mai repeated, crossing her arms and pinning Adaman with her best older sister gaze. "What sort of something?"

"The Red Chain binds me and Volo." Adaman gestured to the Red Chain around Volo's neck and wrists. "We can't be apart or it will hurt him."

"Why not just let him stay in the village then?" Mai asked.

"You know why."

Mai hummed, tilting her head. "So, you're here to ask if I want to be temporary leader while you're gone."

"You're more than qualified. I know I'll have to go through the elders to approve this, but I can't think of anything else."

Mai sighed then shook her head. "Well, I suppose it would be good for you to broaden your horizons. If the elders agree, I don't mind acting as leader."

"You're the best, Mai." Adaman squeezed her in a hug. "You don't know how much this means."

"Yeah, yeah." Mai returned the hug before pulling back. "We should get to the village. I'm sure you're on a time crunch."

Adaman nodded. "Right."

They started walking towards the Diamond Clan settlement, which wasn't too far from the Combee hive. Wyrdeer walked beside them as if sensing they would still require his services.

"That's a cool Pokémon you have there, Volo," Mai said, gesturing to Kai flying beside Volo.

"Oh, thank you," Volo said. "This is Kai."

Kai trilled a greeting.

Mai smiled. "What a nice name."

The Diamond Clan settlement came into view, deep blue tents like stark spires against the golden brown landscape. Several of the villagers were completing their daily tasks, carrying baskets of harvested wheat, rice, and water spinach. Women gathered around a small fire, skinning Basculin and Barboach as they gossiped. A few children chased each other around, giggling.

"Leader Adaman has returned with Warden Mai!" one villager called, causing nearly everyone to stop what they were doing.

"Welcome back, Leader Adaman!"

"Warden Mai, welcome back."

The moment eyes landed on Volo, the entire atmosphere of the village changed from genial to hostile.

"It's Volo," one villager grumbled.

"What's he doing here?" asked another.

"Why is he wearing our clothes?"

"Who does he think he is?"

Volo's eyes darted between the villagers scowling at him before he moved a little bit closer to Adaman's side. "Why are they all glaring at me like that?"

"Just ignore them," Adaman said, keeping his gaze fixated on the large tent at the back of the settlement.

The elder's tent was the largest one in the village, next in size to Adaman's own which was positioned on a small hill to the north where he had an excellent view of the village and could see any incoming threats. Above the door, an Alpha Garchomp skull wielded two crossed axes shed from a Kleavor in its jaws.

"You should stay out here," Adaman suggested, glancing at Volo. "Thyme and the others will keep you company."

"Lea!" Thyme stared up at Volo, wagging his tail.

Volo glanced over his shoulder at the villagers who continued to scowl at him, but none dared approach. "Um, okay."

Thyme, Eon, and Tempo all stood around Volo, staring at the villagers and challenging them to come closer.

A few villagers turned away to resume their chores and others kept their children from approaching Thyme and the others to pet them.

Adaman nodded, satisfied that his partners would protect Volo from any potential attacks, then opened the door to the elder's hut. He stepped inside with Mai behind him.

Inside, the three elders of the Diamond Clan were sitting at a table, playing Time. Jikan, Hiru, and Yoji had been the elders far before Adaman had even become Clan Leader. They had been around during Adaman's father's time as Clan Leader.

All three wore the typical Diamond Clan clothes, though their jackets were longer, mimicking kimono. Despite calling them elders, the three weren't the oldest in the village–barely older than fifty–and were instead chosen by the elders who came before them.

Hiru dyed his hair bright red, trying to appear younger than he actually was, and kept it pulled back into a low ponytail so it fell to his lower back. He was the less serious of the three, enjoying games and jokes. Hiru was known for occasionally disagreeing with his fellow elder's decisions.

Yoji, on the other hand, followed whatever Jikan said. He kept his silver hair pulled up into a bun to keep it out of the way, pinned in place by two Drapion pincers. Several Skorupi claws hung around his neck.

Jikan’s bangs were short and spiky, the tips stubbornly remaining brown, while the rest of his gray hair was painstakingly braided. A blue haori decorated with markings symbolic of Almighty Dialga hung around Jikan's shoulders, setting him apart from the other two. Multiple silver bangles hung from his wrists, crafted from shed Steelix skin and inlaid with blue shards.

Of the three of them, Jikan was the oldest and had more vocal power.

Hiru set down a card on the pile between the three of them with a triumphant, "Time's up!"

"You have to be cheating," Yoji muttered. "No way you can win three times in a row."

"It appears as if Almighty Dialga smiles upon me," Hiru said, grinning as he grabbed the cards to shuffle them for another round.

"Elders," Adaman said, catching their attention.

"Ah, Leader Adaman," Jikan greeted, interlocking his fingers and resting his chin on them. His dark eyes glittered like volcanic glass. "Welcome back."

"It's unusual for you to come to us," Yoji said, green eyes narrowed. "What do you want?"

"I've come to ask you to consider allowing Mai to become temporary Clan Leader while I'm in Galar."

The elders stared at Adaman for several moments before Jikan released a laugh, tense and sharp.

"Why would you go to that region? Tired of your duties here?"

"Of course not," Adaman snapped, his patience with the elders waning quickly. He bit his lip, remembering that if he wanted a chance at getting the approval of the elders, he had to be nice. "Things happened and I'm kind of tied to Volo."

"Volo?" Jikan repeated as Hiru and Yoji gasped, exchanging glances with each other. "The one who started the Frenzies and endangered Hisui with the Rifts?"

"You brought him here, to the village?" Yoji hissed. "How irresponsible."

"He won't be here long if you'll just let Mai be my stand-in while I'm gone," Adaman insisted.

"Why would we agree to even allow you to take him to Galar with you?" Jikan raised an eyebrow, tilting his head. "Are you trying to avoid his rightful punishment?"

"He's already been punished enough," Adaman hissed, entire body bristling. "If you would just listen to my request--"

"Your request is denied," Jikan said, waving a dismissive hand.

Hiru and Yoji nodded. Hiru began to deal the cards for another round of Time.

Adaman sighed. He had expected that to be their answer. "Then I use my veto."

Mai gasped, hand flying to her mouth. "Adaman!"

Vetos were one of the few stronger powers Adaman had for his position. However, he could only use four, one per season. Each veto resulted in a different challenge, set forth by the elders.

Jikan scoffed. "You're using a veto for a criminal?"

"I'm using a veto because I have no other choice. There is no safe space here in Hisui for Volo. I have to go to Galar."

Jikan narrowed his eyes before he turned to Yoji and Hiru, talking quietly with them.

After a few seconds, they all turned to Adaman.

"All right, then," Jikan said. "Your challenge is a one on one battle against Mai.”

Adaman and Mai glanced at each other before looking back at the elders. That was far too simple of a challenge.

"All right," Adaman agreed. "What's the parameters?"

"Your veto goes through if you win. If you lose, we get to decide how to punish Volo for his crimes."

Adaman rolled his eyes and stepped closer to the elder's table. "That would be a poor idea."

"Why is that?" Yoji asked. "We were affected--"

"OUR clan was not the only one affected," Adaman said, forcing himself to keep his voice level. "How do you think it would look if we punished Volo on our own without consulting the Pearl Clan or Jubilife Village?"

Jikan, Yoji, and Hiru looked at each other before they huddled again, whispering.

Good. They realized that was a bad move. Despite their hesitance in forming an alliance with the Pearl Clan and Jubilife, the elders couldn't deny that obtaining hard to grow food and spices was a boon the two villages provided that would be lost if they spurned them.

Jikan and the two elders broke apart, setting their gazes on Adaman.

"All right, we've decided on another term." Jikan smirked. "If you lose, you forfeit your leadership position."

"What?!" Mai yelled. "That's outrageous!"

Adaman wasn't surprised that was the next term that had been decided on. The elders had hated him from the moment he had been chosen as the next Clan Leader. They hated him when he came out. They hated him for helping Rei. Hated him period.

"Adaman, don't agree to this." Mai grabbed Adaman's arm, staring at him desperately. "We can figure something else out."

"I suppose I'll just have to win," Adaman said. "I accept the terms."

"This should be good," Yoji snickered, standing with Hiru and Jikan.

"Adaman, come on," Mai hissed, following Adaman as he stepped outside. "You can't be serious."

Volo looked up from where he was sitting on the ground, Thyme lying in his lap. Eon and Tempo were on either side of his legs. "Are we leaving now?"

"Not yet," Adaman said. "Don't go easy on me, Mai."

Mai groaned, tilting her head back. "You're so insufferable! Fine."

Volo glanced between Adaman and Mai as he stood. "What's going on?"

"A veto challenge," Hiru answered. He, Jikan, and Yoji stood in front of the tent.

Jikan and Yoji shot scowls at Volo before looking away.

"Veto challenge?" Volo repeated. "What's that?"

"Adaman has demanded a veto, which comes with a challenge. If he wins, he gets to use his veto. If not, this time he'll lose his leadership position."

Volo furrowed his eyebrows, looking at Adaman. "Why...?"

Adaman and Mai stood several feet away from the elders tent, facing each other.

"You ready for this, Munchlax?" Mai asked, glancing down at her partner.

Munchlax nodded. "Munch."

Adaman set his expression as Munchlax stepped forward. Mai knew all of Thyme's moves, so he wouldn't be a good choice. She hadn't fought much against Eon or Tempo; he could take advantage of that even though neither had a good type advantage over Munchlax.

"All right, Eon, you're up."

"Bre!" Eon leaped into the battlefield, grinning at Munchlax.

"Let's start if off with Stockpile!" Mai ordered.

"Munch!" Munchlax raised his arms as his entire body became coated in light.

"Raising your defense doesn't mean anything!" Adaman said. "Eon, Quick Attack!"

Eon growled, darting towards Munchlax.

"Why don't we counter that with a Brick Break!"

Munchlax's right arm glowed and he swung out as Eon came closer, making contact with her forehead.

The two fought to overpower the other, Eon's claws digging into the ground. The power struggle broke when Eon slid back and Munchlax staggered.

"Strong style Dark Pulse!" Adaman ordered.

Eon shook her head before unleashing a blast of shadows.

Mai grinned. "Stockpile!"

Munchlax's body glowed as the Dark Pulse collided with him, causing him to slide back.

"Now, Swallow."

"Lax!"

The glow around Munchlax brightened before shattering into particles, healing the injuries he had sustained from the attack.

Adaman grit his teeth. Mai was playing the long game and it was not something he was in the mood for.

"Eon, Iron Tail!"

Eon charged towards Munchlax, tail glowing silver. She leaped up, swinging her tail at Munchlax.

"We'll just counter that with another Brick Break!" commanded Mai. "Agile style!"

Munchlax thrust his arm up as Eon came down and the two attacks collided again. This time, Eon overpowered Munchlax, staggering him.

Using the momentum from the attack, Eon flipped again, slamming a second Iron Tail directly onto Munchlax's head.

Munchlax reeled back, clutching his head. "Lax..."

"Now, strong style Quick Attack!"

"Bre!" Eon launched herself at Munchlax, slamming into him and sending him skidding across the ground.

"Munchlax!" Mai called.

Before Munchlax could get back up, Adaman ordered, “Strong style Iron Tail with Dark Pulse!”

“Umbre!” Eon charged towards the fallen Munchlax, tail glowing. She exhaled a misty form of Dark Pulse, coating her tail in shadows.

Launching herself into the air, Eon started spinning, turning into a blur of silver and black before she slammed her tail into Munchlax with brutal force.

Yes! Adaman grinned, clenching his hand. Easy win.

Munchlax struggled to his feet before dropping to one knee, supporting himself with a hand. "Lax..."

Light surrounded Munchlax, pulsing brightly before fading to a dull glow.

Adaman gasped as he recognized the light that portended a Pokémon's evolution.

It looked like Munchlax was resisting it.

Is that why Munchlax hasn't evolved yet? Adaman wondered. Because he didn't want to change?

"It's all right, Munchlax!" Mai called. "I'll love you no matter what!"

Munchlax glanced at Mai before the glow brightened once more.

A few moments later it faded and Snorlax stood, scratching his chest.

Mai grinned. "Stockpile."

"Ugh...Eon, Dark Pulse, strong style!"

Eon released another beam of shadows, striking Snorlax as the Stockpile glow faded.

Snorlax scratched his chest in response to the attack.

"Swallow, then Belly Drum!"

"Agile style Iron Tail!" Adaman ordered as Snorlax slapped his stomach once the Swallow glow faded, rhythmic sound waves emitting from the strikes.

"Umbre!" Eon charged at Snorlax, leaping into the air.

"Now, strong style Brick Break!"

Snorlax stepped to the side to avoid Eon's tail and slammed a glowing fist into Eon's side, sending her smashing into the rock spire situated in the center of the village.

"Eon!" Adaman yelled as Eon slumped to the ground from the attack.

"Nice hit, Snorlax!" Mai said.

"Lax!" Snorlax rubbed the back of his head.

The smile faded from Mai's face as realization dawned on her that she had won the battle. She covered her mouth. "Oh, Almighties! I didn't mean to; I just got into the battle!"

"It's okay, Mai." Adaman smiled. "I'll just--"

"Umbre!"

Adaman looked to see Eon struggling to her feet, chest heaving. "Eon..."

"Bre! Umbre!" Eon grit her teeth when she almost collapsed, shifting her position to support herself.

Adaman didn't need to speak Pokémon to know that Eon wanted to continue the fight. She was pushing herself beyond her limits. Out of spite for the elders, perhaps. Sighing, Adaman shook his head. "Eon, it's all right. I'll figure something else out."

"Inconceivable!" Jikan snarled as Hiru and Yoji gasped. "You would give up your leadership position for someone like him?!"

"Bre!" Eon yelled. "Umbre bre umbre!"

Adaman stared at Eon before he chuckled. "You always were a stubborn one. All right, this battle isn't over then. Strong style Moonlight!"

Eon smirked, red energy surrounding her as a full moon appeared above her, rays shining on her dark fur.

Mai hesitated before ordering, "Agile style Stockpile!"

"Snor!"

Eon shook her head and straightened before racing back to the battlefield.

"Brick Break!"

"Use Quick Attack to dodge it!" Adaman commanded as Snorlax swung his arm towards Eon. "Then strong style Iron Tail!"

Eon darted to the side, avoiding Snorlax's attack.

Snorlax's hand slammed into the ground. He attempted to pull it out, but found his hand stuck. "Lax?!"

Eon leaped up, slamming her steel coated tail into Snorlax's face, staggering the massive Pokémon.

"Come on, break free and use Belly Drum!"

Snorlax managed to yank his hand free and slapped his belly a few times. He paused when the strikes didn't emit the same sound waves as last time.

"Snor?"

Great, it failed! Adaman thought with a grin.

If Belly Drum failed, it meant Snorlax's health was far too low to be sacrificed for an attack boost.

"Strong style Dark Pulse! Let's finish this!"

"Bre!" Eon unleashed a massive blast of energy, hitting Snorlax in the chest.

Snorlax slid back from the attack, stumbling before toppling onto his back.

"Snorlax!" Mai said, running to Snorlax's side.

"Great job, Eon!" Adaman praised as Eon slumped to the ground.

"Bre." Eon wagged her tail once before dropping her head to the ground, exhausted.

Adaman looked at the elders who were silently seething. "My veto stays. Mai will be Clan Leader until I return."

Jikan glowered before he said, "Fine."

He opened the door to the tent, storming inside with Hiro and Yoji behind him.

"Is Snorlax all right?" Adaman asked, approaching Mai as she helped Snorlax sit up.

"Lax." Snorlax nodded.

"I'm glad you finally evolved," Mai said, hugging Snorlax's side. "I wondered why you kept resisting it."

"Snor Snorlax." Snorlax picked Mai up, squeezing her in a hug. He reached his other arm out, grabbing hold of Adaman before he could get out of the way.

"Too tight!" Adaman wheezed, struggling to get out of Snorlax's grasp before his ribs or spine broke.

After a few more seconds, Snorlax released the two, setting them on the ground.

Adaman caught his breath, leaning one hand on his knee as he rubbed his aching back. "Remind me to not get too close to him from now on."

Mai wrapped her arms around Adaman, startling him.

He hesitated only a moment before returning the hug, resting his forehead on top of her head. It only reminded him how much taller than Mai he had gotten over the years. No longer did she have to kneel to give him a hug.

"I'm glad you get to go. You haven't done anything for yourself." Mai pulled back to look at him. "Take your time and have some fun; I'll handle things until you get back."

Adaman smiled, squeezing Mai once before releasing her. "I trust you will."

He looked over at Volo who was watching their interaction silently, expression vacant and unreadable. "Hey, we're leaving."

Volo seemed to shake himself out of whatever thoughts he was in, blinking. "O-oh, okay!"

"Be safe," Mai said as Adaman and Volo climbed into Wyrdeer's saddle.

Adaman gave a nod. "You, too. Don't let the elders push you around."

"I wouldn't dream of it."

Adaman grinned then turned Wyrdeer around.

It was time to return to the boat so they could finally depart from Prelude Bay and start their journey to the Galar region.

Adaman stared at the clipper as they rowed closer to it. It was massive, larger than it had looked sitting in the distance. Unusual markings swept across the ship's hull in bright blues and purples, several coming together to mimic the strange figurehead attached to the clipper's bow.

Roosting on the ship's railing were three bird Pokémon Adaman didn't recognize.

One had brown brown with cream feathers around its face, underbelly, and primaries. Light red crest feathers swept down the back of its head. Its tail plumage alternated between red and yellow.

The Pokémon to the left reminded Adaman of Braviary with its size and similar body shape, but it didn't look quite like it. Instead of white plumage, it had red feathers on its back and dark blue feathers on its underside. Its rounded tail feathers were red with blue tips; a strip of yellow sat between the two colors. Sprouting above its eyes were three long, white feathers, mimicking a crest. Behind the feathers was a fluffy mane of down, draping down the back of its neck.

Situated between the two raptors, seemingly unbothered by the vast size difference between it and its companions, was a small, white Pokémon. Its orange, webbed feet and long, flat wings indicated that it was an ocean flier, using wind gusts to glide for long distances without rest. The hooked, black tip of its orange beak suggested the Pokémon mostly ate fish.

The moment the rowboat pulled up to the ship's side, a wooden ladder was thrown down and the group climbed it to reach the ship's deck.

“Glad to finally have you aboard!" the captain said as Laventon and the others stepped onto the deck. His cadence sounded Kantonian while his accent was from the Western regions. "Welcome aboard the Whimsical Tapu Fini! I am its captain, Lono."

Lono appeared to be in his mid-forties with a deep tan. His black hair was pulled back into a bun. A necklace of sharp, triangular teeth hung around his neck and a sleeve of tattoos ran down his arms; the tattoos were composed of a ring of arrows wrapped around his upper right arm and a dual ring of pointed teeth circled his left wrist, forming the outline of jaws. Between the spaces were geometric shapes, including one that looked similar to the figurehead of the boat and the markings painted on the boat's hull. He wore a red lightweight jacket that reminded Adaman of a haori with orange waves along the bottom half, mimicking flames; he wore nothing else beneath the jacket. Brown shorts fell shy of his knees, decorated with palm trees.

"Thank you for having us," Laventon said, giving a small bow. "I apologize we kept delaying you."

"It's all right." Lono waved a hand with a chuckle. "We're leaving just before sunset, so we should be on track to arrive in Galar by our scheduled time." Lono raised his hand above his head. "All right, boys, unfurl the sails and let's get on like an Encore!"

Adaman watched in awe as the ship's workers began unwinding ropes to release the sails.

The three bird Pokémon perched on the ship's rails took flight, soaring up to the sails. The smallest flew to the shortest mast while the other two flew to the middle and the main mast.

All three began to flap their wings, creating a gust in the sails.

Another deckhand whistled, pulling once on the chain of the anchor. Seconds later, the chains began to pull up by itself. An anchor tangled in seaweed was hauled up with a ship's wheel attached to it. A single compass was set onto the right side of the wheel.

When the compass looked at Adaman, he realized that the anchor was actually a Pokémon.

"I heard this boat had visited other regions," Akari said, going up to Lono as the ship began to inch forward. "Where did you go?"

Lono laughed, a red and black cat Pokémon slinking forward to rub between his legs. "Curious, are you? Well, we started at Unova, then we went down towards Alola, my home. Afterwards, we went to Kanto. That's where we got that letter to drop by Hisui to pick up Professor Laventon. It wasn't too far from our current position, so we agreed."

"What are you carrying from the regions you visited?" Rei asked.

"Besides some travelers who wish to visit Galar, we also have some spices, tea, medicine, berries. A lot of imports."

"These Pokémon help aboard the ship?" Laventon asked, watching a few Golduck and Floatzel help the deckhands secure the anchor and sails. Beside them, a blue crocodilian Pokémon darted between both the anchor and sails, eager to help.

Lono nodded. "Yep! We got the Wingull, Pidgeotto, and Braviary to aid in adding wind to our sails. Golduck, Floatzel, and Croconaw to help through low tides. Our resident Dhelmise acts as our anchor."

From where it rested against the rails, the Dhelmise groaned, eye tilting side to side.

"Fascinating," Laventon murmured. "I have to write this down. What a stunning use of Pokémon and their natural abilities."

“That's a Braviary?” Adaman asked, watching the dark-feathered bird Pokémon flap over to the smallest sail, beginning to assist Wingull.

“Yep! Looks a bit different from your region's Braviary, I take it?”

“Vastly different. It doesn't look like a psychic type.”

Lono chuckled before he said, "Feel free to explore the ship." He picked up the cat Pokémon insistently pawing at his leg. "I'll give you a call once dinner is ready."

"Thank you," Laventon said.

Rei and Akari took off to investigate the Dhelmise and after a few moments, Laventon followed them once he pulled a notebook from his satchel.

"I guess that just leaves us," Volo said, looking at Adaman.

"Yeah." Adaman looked away before moving towards the bow of the ship.

Volo followed close behind and Adaman didn't blame him. They had tested how far they could go from one another before the Red Chain activated. The safest distance was about two hundred feet. After that, the Chain started to tigthen.

Volo, of course, kept apologizing for everything, but Adaman didn't blame him. It wasn't like Volo had known what the Red Chain did and he couldn't stop someone from forming bonds.

The Red Chain didn't appear to differentiate between types of bonds, if a specific bond was strong enough. Adaman hadn't done that much to warrant such a strong friendship bond from Volo, but perhaps there was a part of Volo that didn't want to be friends with Rei.

Adaman leaned against the railing, the scent of sea salt sharp and early evening breeze chilly. It had been a while since he had been on the sea, though he was certain that Tranquility Cove didn't count as the open sea.

Volo stood off to the side awkwardly, purposely avoiding looking at Adaman while also not looking at anything in particular.

Adaman sighed, pushing off railing. Well, the tension was getting awkward and the only way to diffuse it was to do something else.

"Why don't I check on your injuries? I just want to make sure that riding Lord Wyrdeer didn't ruin the stitching."

"O-oh, yeah!” Volo nodded rapidly. “Sure!"

Kai grumbled, moving to the side as Adaman came closer.

Adaman looked over the wounds on Volo's back when Volo pulled up his shirt.

"Sorry."

Adaman groaned. He was very close to flicking Volo in the forehead for his constant stream of apologizing. "I told you to stop that."

"You didn't want to come."

"Because I'm the leader of my clan. I can't entirely abandon my duties to them."

"Why didn't you just let me stay with your clan then?" Volo asked. "Because I did something wrong?"

Adaman hesitated before he hedged, "Yeah. Kind of."

Even if he had let Volo stay with his clan, Adaman was more than confident that they'd stab Volo in the back when Adaman wasn't looking rather than accept him.

Volo remained quiet, watching Adaman look over the slashes on his leg, before he said, "You were willing to give up being a leader...for me." He pulled down his shirt, staring at Adaman with a confused expression. "Why?"

Adaman stared at Volo for several seconds before he sighed, straightening. "Because you're not a bad guy."

Volo furrowed his eyebrows as Adaman turned back to the front of the boat. Before he could say anything else, Laventon called, "Come on, you two! Supper!"

"Coming," Adaman said. "That was quick."

"Yeah..." Volo watched Adaman walk away, his Eeveelutions by his side, before he followed.

Below deck, across from the galley, were several tables with long benches. Already sitting at them were the passengers Lono had picked up from his voyages as well as a few of the ship's crew.

Laventon sniffed the air before he sighed. "Is that Galarian leek stew?"

Lono chuckled. "Good nose. Yep, made with leek, potatoes, carrots, Wooloo meat, and beef broth. We also have sweeet rolls and Roserade petal tea."

"It smells delightful."

"Go on and let out your Pokémon so they can eat with us," Lono said, looking at Akari and Rei. "We got some nice food for them."

Rei and Akari glanced at each other before they shrugged, taking out their Poké Balls and releasing their Pokémon.

Aurora scowled at Volo the second she laid eyes on him, crossing her arms.

"Your Ralts looks like she wants to kill me," Volo noted.

"She looks that way at everyone." Rei patted Aurora's helmet. "Isn't that right, Aurora?"

Aurora looked at Rei with a happy, "Ra!"

A few crew members passed out some bowls filled with colorful, round food to the Pokémon.

"What kind of food is that?" Adaman asked. "That doesn't look like berries."

"Because it's actually a mix of ground Tauros meat, veggies, and berries," Lono responded. "Soft, healthy, and delicious. The berries also add delightful colors. Wingull and Golduck get modified recipes: Finneon for Wingull and meat-free for Golduck.”

Wingull cried out, flapping her wings before pecking at her food while Golduck nodded.

"We have some extra ones for your Empoleon." Lono handed a bowl of meat-free Pokémon food to Akari's Empoleon.

"Ka...?" Pikachu picked up one of the pink balls, sniffing it before taking a bite. "Pika!"

"You like it, Pikachu?" Akari asked as Pikachu took several more bites.

"Pi!"

"Seems like they all do," Lono chuckled as the other Pokémon followed Pikachu's lead.

"Why didn't I think of that," Rei muttered. "Bet I could adjust the recipe for Basculin or Swinub meat..."

"Aren't you hungry, Kai?" Volo asked, noticing that Kai hadn't touched its food and was staring at it instead.

"Now that you mention it..." Rei looked at his team again to see that Wisp and Orre also hadn't touched their food.

"Tyyy?" Blaze pointed at Wisp's bowl, obviously asking if he could have it.

Wisp nudged it closer to the Typhlosion and Blaze happily took the extra food.

"Do they not like it?" Akari asked, looking at Laventon.

Laventon shook his head. "I don't think that's the case. There is a theory going around that a lot of Pokémon don't need to eat like others do. Some feed off electricity, others absorb the energy around them, and some even take other's life forces."

"Is that it, Kai?" Volo asked. "You feed off something else?"

Kai warbled, blinking at Volo before pushing its bowl to one of the ship's working Pokémon.

"I guess that's a yes," Rei said, watching Wisp pop back into their keystone and Orre hover around Pikachu.

Pikachu hissed, pulling his bowl closer to himself, electricity crackling from his cheeks in warning.

Orre buzzed, moving closer to the sparks.

"Oh, oh, wait." Laventon grabbed the satchel hanging at his side, rummaging through it before pulling out his camera. "We should take a picture to show Cyllene."

"Great idea!" Akari grabbed Rei, pulling him closer to Laventon. "Come on, Rei!"

Rei sighed, rolling his eyes. He let Akari pull him against her side. "Do this, Akari."

Akari blinked at Rei when he held up his pointer and middle finger in a V shape. "Why?"

"It's fun."

Akari stared at her hand before she copied him, grinning at the camera.

"Look at the cute little family," Adaman teased as Laventon looked at the photo to make sure it wasn't blurry.

"I have a spoon," Rei threatened, brandishing a spoon.

Adaman rolled his eyes, not intimidated in the slightest. "Scary."

"All right, you guys," Laventon said. "Let's dig in before it gets cold."

"Is this really food you eat in Galar?" Akari asked, prodding at the soup.

Laventon nodded. "Yep! It's even better during the winter months. Warms you right up. Just wait until you try the curry. I know a good curry restaruant; we can visit it once we've finished with the council."

"We have curry in Hisui," Adaman muttered. "What's so different about the two?"

"We've added our own twist. It's not just meat and veggies with rice."

Adaman raised an eyebrow as he swallowed a piece of tender Wooloo meat. "Elaborate."

Laventon chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, no. I think you should see it for yourself."

"Uh-huh." Adaman was suspicious about the Galarian verison of curry, but it was apparent Laventon wasn't going to spoil the surprise, so he let that subject drop. "Anything else we should know about Galar?"

"Yeah," Rei piped up. "You don't talk about it much."

"Well, let's see..." Laventon scratched his cheek. "Macros Cosmos is our largest supplier of electricity. We have a few regional variants of Zigzagoon, Yamask, and Meowth, among other species..."

He laughed. "I really don't want to spoil too much. You have to experience it for yourselves."

Volo watched the ocean waves as the ship continued to slice through them, water spraying into a fine mist that sparkled under the light of the stars and the full moon hanging in the clear night sky.

Beside him, Dhelmise watched Volo silently, occasionally releasing noises that sounded like wailing and creaking wood.

"Hey."

Volo turned sharply at the voice.

Rei slowed a bit, holding up a hand as if to calm him down.

Volo relaxed a bit, releasing his grip on the railing as Rei approached.

"Can't sleep?" Rei asked, leaning on the railing.

Volo hesitated before he returned to leaning on the railing. "Yeah."

Rei hummed, nodding.

They lapsed into silence. After a bit, Rei reached into his pocket and pulled out a tumblestone necklace.

"Here." He held it out to Volo. "I've been meaning to give this to you, but with everything going on, I forgot."

Volo stared at the necklace, a painful stab hitting his heart. He hesitantly reached a hand out, taking the necklace. He rubbed his thumbs over the small etch marks on the tumblestone's surface.

"This is mine...?"

"Yeah. I found it when I found you."

Gripping the necklace in both hands, Volo glanced at Rei. "Would you...tell me...?"

For a few moments, Rei didn't respond or look at Volo. Then he raised his eyes to him. Rei looked tired, older than his teenage years. "Do you want to know?"

Volo broke eye contact with Rei, suddenly unconfident. He wasn't sure if he wanted to know the truth of why he had been kept a secret from Jubilife village or why the villagers of the Diamond Clan had glared venom at him. "I don't know."

Rei sighed. "How about this: when you want to know, I'll tell you everything I know. Is that fair?"

Volo nodded, not trusting himself to talk as his throat tightened.

"Great." Rei leaned back, holding onto the railing for support. "You all right, other than that?"

Volo cleared his throat, shoving the necklace into his pocket. Holding it felt like it was burning his hand. "I think so. I'm not sure."

"It's okay to not know. Feelings are hard to put into words sometimes."

"I feel...strange," Volo admitted, gazing at the stars above. If he looked hard enough, he could make out constellations he didn't know the names of. "Not in a bad way, but...my heart aches, like I'm homesick. Yet, I still feel wanderlust."

Rei nodded. "Perhaps because you've never been outside of Hisui as far as I know."

"Do you feel the same way?" Volo looked at Rei. "This wanderlust?"

"Yeah. I guess it's because I haven't left Hisui before either."

"I wonder what Galar is like..."

"It'll be fun." Rei grinned. "You'll see."

Volo glanced at Rei before he smiled. “Yeah. Fun, exploring beyond Hisui's borders.”