Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Business Dinners - Sigrid

        "Today marks the fifth anniversary of The Darkest Day, the day Chairman Rose of the Pokémon League shocked Galar to its core with his attempt to awaken Eternatus from its slumber. The Chairman arranged a secret project hidden within his energy plant beneath Hammerlocke—his intent? To resolve the energy crisis facing Galar in a thousand years' time. Eternatus was unleashed moments before the annual Championship match as Rose broadcasted his plans live to Wyndon Stadium. Residents across the region recall the event with mixed emotions:"

        "The sky turned black, and this pokémon burst out of the ground and started destroying everything. I'd never seen anything like it. Raihan evacuated the city, and no one got hurt, but something like that? It's insanity!"

        "You never think something like that would happen to you until it does, ya know? Galar was the safest region in the world, and to have something like that happen? It changes you."

        "Chairman Rose was a respected, brilliant, and forward-thinking businessman and servant to the people of Galar. I worked alongside him for years, and I know he only ever had the region's best interests at heart."

        "The Chairman played himself off as a good man—he fooled all of us—but that day, he showed all of Galar who he really was. I'd say he's getting exactly what he deserves."

        "Thanks to the quick actions of region-beloved Champion Leon and the late Professor Magnolia's granddaughter, Professor Sonia, Eternatus was captured, and Rose apprehended. Chairman Rose is serving a lifetime sentence and has told his lawyers he has no plans to appeal, writing 'if Galar feels safer with me behind bars, then so be it.'

        Leon and Sonia did not respond to requests for comment.

        In other news, with two months remaining before the annual Gym Challenge, preparations are being made all across the region—"

        "Hey, turn that racket off." Your mother stepped in front of the television, her hands firm on her hips. "Your father will be home any minute, and you're not even dressed."

        You snapped from your textbooks and fixed your mother with a surprised look. Glancing at the broadcast, you gasped at the time. "Is it that late already? Sorry, mum, I was studying for my finals."

        "I appreciate that, honey." She sighed, placing a hand on her temple. "But this is a crucial business meeting, and everything needs to go perfect. Please tell me you ironed the clothes I got you?"

        "Yeah, I did it last night. Let me head upstairs—I'll be quick, promise." You stood from the nest you'd made on the couch, collecting the textbooks and notepads you had sprawled around the living room. 

        "Remember, this is important, so you need to be on your best behavior." Your mother fussed over the pillows you'd been leaning against, fluffing and posing until she was satisfied. Her voice was clipped. "Be polite, be courteous. You're representing us."

        "I know, mum, I know. I didn't just fall off a drash berry truck."

        “Hey.” She snapped her fingers at you. “I don’t want to hear any of your cheek tonight.”

        You sighed and apologized. Before you could retreat to your room, your mother suddenly caught your arm. You turned to her with a raised brow, and she shook her head. “And remember, absolutely no battle talk, got it? That’s not what he’s here for, and it’s not what we do. I don’t want to hear a word of it.”

        “I know, mum.”

        Your mother released you, and you slipped up the stairs to your room. You weren’t sure why your mother needed to remind you every time—the last time you’d spoken of battling with a client was when you were small and didn’t know any better. That had been years ago, long before they’d established the rule, and it seemed she reminded you solely to test your patience. Thankfully, you had enough not to snap each time she threw it in your face, and you dressed into your gown for the evening: something formal but simple, and matched with a pair of black heels. The first impression mattered, and your gown would help set the tone for this particular dinner party.

        You understood your mother's nerves. This wasn’t just any business meeting. After all, it wasn’t every day the Champion was invited into your home and offered a seat at your table. Your parents had been preparing for this occasion for weeks now: the food, the ambiance, and even the clothes you wore. It all had some meaning or subliminal messaging, though what they meant was well beyond you. Your father was the interior designer, your mother the marketer, and this was their job just as much as their passion. You were a pokénursing student and unversed in symbolism. The literal suited you fine.

        Finishing your eyeliner, you appraised yourself in the mirror. A strand of Luxio’s fur stuck to the hem of your gown, and you plucked it, mindful of the lace. Casting it into the garbage, you decided you looked as good as possible and headed downstairs. The aroma of dinner hit you when you skipped the final step, and your stomach growled excitedly. Your mother was in the kitchen, finishing what appeared to be curry rice. You approached her rubbing your belly.

        “That smells amazing.” You praised.

        Your mother smiled, glancing at your form over her shoulder. Immediately, she grimaced. “Didn’t you hang that up after you ironed it? It’s full of Luxio’s hair! I told you to keep it in its pokéball tonight!”

        You furrowed your brow and looked down at the dress. There were stray furs slipped between the fabric you hadn’t seen in the dark of your room. Sighing, you picked them away. “Sorry, mum, didn’t notice.”

        “What’re you going to do with yourself?” Your mother scolded and shook her head. “I have to tell you everything.”

        “Sorry, mum.” You swallowed the retort in the back of your throat. Tonight wasn’t the night to stroke your ego with a petty fight, and your mother seemed more than keen to forget your transgression as she stirred the pot.

        She sighed, “Just go set the table, please.”

        You did as you were told, trying not to drool over the prospect of dinner. It was then you heard the front door click. Perking, you set the last plate down and rushed to the foyer. 

        Your father was a stout man, especially compared to the one towering beside him. You tried not to look at your guest directly instead, waiting for them to step into the house and your father to introduce him as he planted a kiss on your cheek. "I'd like for you to meet my newest client, Leon. Leon, this is my daughter."

        You offered Leon a smile now as you turned to face him. You recognized the man by his violet hair, but lacking his iconic sportswear, opting for the comfort of a collared shirt, sweater vest, and jeans. He looked back at you with kind eyes. He was much less intimidating and much more handsome in person than on television. "It's nice to meet you, Champion Leon."

        “The pleasure's all mine." He grinned. You took his hand when he extended it and were pleasantly surprised by his firm grip. You did your best to match it, but your arm shook like a leaf in the wind compared to his. Leon seemed to find some humor in this. “I’m not making you nervous, am I?”

        “It’s not every day I shake hands with the strongest man in the region.” You chuckled, relinquishing his hand. “Guess I need to practice my grip.”

        “Oh, hello!” Your mother squeezed into the foyer beside you. You sidestepped to make room for her. “I’m Heather, Emerson’s wife. I’m sure he’s told you about me.”

        “Plenty. Thank you for inviting me to your home, Mrs. Reader.” He greeted her with a much gentler hand.

        “Please, call me Heather. Make yourself at home. Dinner will be ready soon.”

        Dinner came and went without heartache. You sat quietly in your seat and answered only when spoken to, straining your cheeks with a practiced smile. Keeping the conversation was your parents’ department, and they had plenty to say about anything and everything. Mostly, they picked Leon’s brain with questions others might’ve found ordinary, but you recognized as their typical checklist. These dinners were the easiest way for your parents to study their client, their needs, wants, expectations, and just how long they would need to plan the project. So, you stayed silent as they worked the unsuspecting champion.

        You’d be able to slip away soon enough, anyway.

        “So, you’re studying to be a pokénurse?” Leon said.

        You tried not to jolt as you snapped from your absentmindedness. You met the Champion’s gaze and cleared your throat. “Yes, actually, this is my last semester before I start my internship at the Wedgehurst Pokécenter.”

        “Well, congratulations, grad. Maybe I’ll see you in the Wyndon Stadium Pokécenter someday.” He winked, and you blushed less from embarrassment and more from the shot of nerves surging down your spine.

        “Oh, I’m not sure about that… I’ve always been a small-town girl.” This, of course, was a lie. You had been born in Wyndon and spent most of your youth there, as much as you denied it. You merely hoped to divert his attention from the fact that mention of it made you uncomfortable—and not because you were a small-town girl.

        Your mother came to your rescue. “She’s a quiet girl. Didn’t even like battling as a kid. It’s no surprise she went into pokénursing; she’s a natural healer.”

        This was another lie, but you did not correct her. Leon looked at you a moment longer before turning to your mother and changing the subject entirely. You let slip a sigh and took a sip of your drink.

        Once the wine came out, you tended to make yourself scarce. Again, this was your parents’ department. You weren't one for drinking, nor the rowdy banter that came after a couple of glasses. You weren't particularly witty either, so steering clear was your best option. You passed a cup of saké to Leon and excused yourself for the night. You weren’t ready for bed or to return to your papers, so you snuck outside when no one was looking. The cool night nipped pleasantly at your skin as you gathered some logs from your father’s shed. You’d deal with your mother’s grief for getting wood chips on your dress in the morning.

        The bonfire flickered weakly before you. Leaning your elbows into your knees, you watched the smoke curl into strange shapes against the star-studded sky and wondered how long the night would last. It wasn’t uncommon for clients to stay long past midnight—some had even remained until the morning. Your parents’ hospitality was near-unlimited when it came to these business meetings. Though, not that they were much of meetings at this point. This was merely a treat; something to unwind the client and reward themselves with a job well done.

        The night had gone just as planned. 

        So, perhaps that's why you were surprised when you heard the sliding glass door open behind you. Glancing over your shoulder, you perked when you recognized Leon's silhouette in the doorway. "Sorry, am I bothering you?"

        "Not at all. Just needed some air."

        "Of course. Take as much time as you need."

        You settled back onto the bench and turned back to the bonfire. Behind you, Leon's feet shuffled in the grass before crunching closer to you. He took a seat on the tree stump beside you. You glanced at him, smiling behind your hand. "Rough crowd?"

        He laughed. "It’s been great, but your mum went to bed and your dad... Well, he passed out on me."

        "You’re kidding." You looked back at the house over your shoulder, spotting your father sprawled along the couch from your spot on the bench. You rolled your eyes. "I guess this is the part where I tell you he's not usually like this?"

        "Is he?"

        “Most people stop noticing after the third drink.”

        Again, Leon laughed, leaning back on the stump with an arm anchored to his knee. There was a bout of silence as the both of you watched the bonfire embers pick up in the breeze.

        "Your mum mentioned you weren't interested in battling as a kid. Do you not have any pokémon?"

        "Oh." The question seemed harmless enough. You retrieved your stickered pokéball from your pocket and threw it into the air. "Sure I do."

        The ball burst open with an electric flourish as your Luxio materialized from it. She let out a growl, looked back at you, and stretched into the grass when you gave her no command.

        "Nice capsule," Leon said.

        "Thanks, I got it just for her." You beamed, watching as the blue cat rolled in her grass patch. "This little lady is Dazzle. I've known her all my life."

        "Oh really? How'd you two meet?"

        You smiled to yourself. "I was too young to remember, but my mum does. I used to run off a lot as a kid, but I always came home with this little Shinx at my heels. No matter what she did, she couldn’t get the pokémon to go home to its family. So, she let it stay with us. We basically grew up together."

        "Sounds like Dazzle chose you as her family." Leon grinned. 

        "I think so, too. I can't imagine a world without her."

        "Have any others?"

        "No, just her." You smirked and leaned to whisper behind your hand. "She’s a bit of the jealous type."

        Dazzle glared back at you at your words. With a sly look, you held your hands up, and the blue creature huffed. Getting to her paws, the Luxio stomped over to you and jumped onto the bench. She plopped her head into your lap, and, when she allowed you to lace your fingers in her mane, you knew all was forgiven. 

        Leon eyed her briefly before saying, "My old master had a Luxray, too. Always wanted to battle everything and anything that moved. I didn’t know they could evolve without battling.”

        You didn’t reply. You looked down at Dazzle, who gazed vacantly across the yard, bored and aimless. You knew she hadn’t just evolved without battling. You also knew that, much like the master’s Luxray, she had once wanted to battle everything, too. It had hurt to take that away from her and even more to lie about it. When had it become so easy to deny these simple facts? Years of pretending, you supposed. You brushed your hand through Luxio’s mane again, pursing your lips.

        Your mother had told you not to talk about battling.

        But she wasn’t here now, and, well, Leon had been the one to bring it up first. Could she have expected any less from the battling champion of Galar? Plus, it’d be rude to ignore him, and your mother had also told you to be polite. You’d been cornered, really, and she’d only have herself to blame if she found out.

        Casting one last glance back at the house, you leaned closer to Leon. “I want to come clean about something.” Leon blinked at you curiously, bending to hear you clearer, and you continued, "I did battle when I was a kid—a lot, actually. My parents never liked it, didn’t think it was worth my time, but they tolerated it. Plus, I was, like, really good at it. Some of their best clients hired them because they thought I’d be this battling prodigy. It was silly, really, but it made me happy.”

        “Not worth your time?” Leon replied incredulously. “How could our entire culture not be worth your time?”

        “My parents are very… pragmatic people. They don’t see battling as anything but a hobby. They wanted me to do something more… stable. A career. A skill. A trade. Something I could profit off in the long-term. And your line of work can be a bit uncertain.”

        The man thought a moment, then nodded. “I guess they have a point… But you don’t sound entirely happy about it. Did they make you stop?”

        It was something like that, but it didn’t come from a place of malice as his question seemed to imply. It had been necessary for everyone involved. Unfortunately, you weren’t in a place to share, and he wasn’t in a position to know. You scratched your head. “Yes? No? It’s hard to explain. Stuff happened, I focused on school, and my parents were so thrilled that I just… stopped. It’s weird when I think about it. Now, I’d probably lose to a Nickit.”

        Silence overtook both of you. By now, the fire had dwindled to char, glowing red with the rise of the wind before fading into the dark. You met Leon’s gaze with a shrug and a half-hearted smile. His didn't falter, and you were surprised when you caught the spark of an idea light up his eye.

        “Would you go back to battling?” He asked. “If you had the chance?”

        You furrowed your brow at the question. It wasn’t difficult. Of course, you’d fantasized about it in the past; it was as tempting as it was frightening. You knew Luxio had dreamed about it, too, even if she’d never outright let you know, even if she acted content with how things were. But sometimes, there were bigger things at stake than what either of you wanted, and, though you’d never act on it, you also knew the question was purely hypothetical. You could be honest with yourself, just this once. You patted Luxio’s side, and the pokémon let out a soft purr. You were sure you were speaking for the both of you when you replied, “I think I’d want to try, but I don’t know. Where would I even start?”

        This seemed to excite the man beside you as he raised his voice slightly. “You know, the Gym Challenge’s coming up soon. Maybe you could find someone to endorse you? Get back into it?”

        Get back into it?

        You froze, the cold of the night suddenly biting through the warmth of the bonfire. A bead of sweat trickled down your spine, and you did your best to swallow the fear in your chest. “Y-Yeah, maybe…”

        “Nervous?” Leon chuckled. “You’re not the only one, but don’t worry. I see all kinds of people register for the Challenge.”

        You scratched your wrist and said nothing for a moment. When you found your voice, you tried not to sound dry, “I’ll have to look into it.”

        “Who knows? Maybe you’ll even beat me.”

        You jolted at his words, but tried not to show how much the idea rattled you. Luxio squirmed on your lap, pressing close to your stomach. You decided to turn the conversation. “I find that hard to believe. Being the Champion of all Galar? Is it really all it’s cracked up to be?”

        “I won’t pretend it’s not a big responsibility. I want Galar to be the strongest region in the world. That kind of strength can be hard to carry, but it’s worth it when I see the determination of Trainers and their pokémon across the region.”

        “And the paycheck too?” You smiled cheekily.

        Leon stopped a moment before throwing his hands up, a smirk crossing his face. “You caught me.”

        The both of you laughed, and you found you were glad you got to talk to him tonight. You’d never connected with one of your parents’ clients before—you’d never tried. But Leon was easy to talk to and even easier on the eyes, and it was easy to let slip what you tended to keep guarded. Part of you wished this wouldn’t be the last time you’d see him like so many others. Still, you knew better than to expect any different. As your laughter settled, you gave the man beside you a smile—a sincere, unpracticed dimple of your cheeks and wrinkle of your eye.

        “You really are as great as they say, Leon.” You said.

        The man leaned back, placing his arms behind his head as he flashed you a smirk. “Oh, I know. I’m told every day.”

        “Now you’re just being cheeky.” Not thinking much of it, you smacked his side in playful disapproval. The man quirked a humored brow at you. You scrambled to your feet with a gasp when it dawned on you just how intimate the gesture had been. “Oh, Arceus, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to do that. I mean, I did, but not like that. Please don’t fire my parents.”

        “Hey, don’t worry about it,” Leon reassured. “We were only having a laugh. No harm done.”

        You relaxed, surprised when the concern you’d felt melted with his words. The man stood and stretched, popping a joint or two with a sigh. When he was done, he turned back to you and said, “I should probably go. Please tell your parents I said thank you and that I’ll contact them again soon.”

        “Of course. I should probably hit the hay, too. It’s way past my bedtime.” You extended a hand to him. “It was nice to meet you, Leon.”

        The man took it without another thought, just as strong as before, and this time, you shook it with a hand that did not falter against his grip. Leon smiled. “The pleasure’s all mine.”

Chapter Text

Lightning - Charli xcx

        Just as you predicted, you did not meet Leon again after that night. Instead, you went to your part-time job the following day, then studied after your shift before spending your night playing with Luxio or glimpsing matches on the television when your parents weren’t looking. This is how you spent the coming weeks before the Gym Challenge—preparing to graduate and working consumed most of your time, just as it had before you’d met Leon. This is what you knew and what you were used to. Leon had just been a moment of excitement in your otherwise sober milieu. 

        It tended to be this way in your parents’ line of work. Being an interior designer, your father had plenty of clients come and go, all of which your mother had recruited, and you had played pretend for. Their projects lasted weeks, sometimes months, and it wasn’t uncommon for them to leave for long stretches of time until they were complete. This was one of those times. Because Leon did, in fact, reach out to them again with the intent of redesigning the abandoned Rose Tower. Five years after the fact seemed quite overdue, but your parents weren’t ones to complain about a hefty paycheck. It had been two weeks since they took to Wyndon.

        You did what you could to not feel slighted by Leon’s lack of mentioning you. After all, it wasn’t like you had any real right to feel this way. Your meeting had been brief and pleasant, but not anything to justify any expectation of camaraderie between you. You knew Leon was a wanted man. He probably had conversations like yours every day, and there was no reason for you to feel special just because you held his attention for a couple of hours over a curry rice. Maybe it was just the aftermath of something new. Perhaps it was because you really did feel some connection that night. Whatever the reason, you needed to set it behind you. The two of you came from two different worlds, and yours had no room to worry about his.

        Perhaps some part of you ached from this lack of connection. You had lived in Wedgehurst with your parents for twelve years; you knew the residents and the places, but what use was it when you were only known by name alone? Even in school, you had been something of an outcast. It was challenging to integrate yourself among children who had romped these streets since their first breath, and even harder to connect when you could not do the one thing that united them: battle. After graduation, many of your classmates had flocked to the Gym Challenge in search of finding themselves. And you had stayed in Wedgehurst, alone and without any real purpose than to placate your folks. 

        Sighing, you bent and clipped a dead branch from the pecha tree you were currently trying to revive. The night had gotten chillier than usual, the heat had failed, and the berry trees in your care had not taken to the change kindly. You hoped removing the dead parts of the tree might save what managed to survive the night, but only time and a new heating system would tell. For now, you tossed the newly separated limb in with the rest of the pile and continued to the next tree. Linnea worked on her own batch of trees on the other side of the greenhouse, her curses and spats echoing between the treetops.

        Linnea was a kind woman—when she wasn’t being betrayed by the greenhouse and her beloved berry trees. She was the owner of the berry shop you worked at and your currently vengeful boss. You were used to this; Linnea was the type who cared too much and rested too little. Amid her twilight years, it was only natural the greenhouse was like a grandchild to her, one she had caught being naughty when the trees wilted and shivered in the cold night. Except, there were no cookies to withhold, behinds to spank, or parents to call. So, she had shoved the shears into your hands the moment you arrived, and spent the rest of the morning scolding the shriveled berries underfoot. In some ways, she was your only real friend.

        You listened and worked quietly.

        “Oh, this is no good, no good at all, ya hear? I don’t want to see nothing like this happening again, understand?” Linnea grumbled. “A load of cobblers is what it is. Don’t you agree, dearie?”

        “Absolute bollocks, Lynn,” You replied, shaking your head. “Look at the trees! Look at the waste! I’m surprised any of them lived at all.”

        “I hear ya, dearie. Absolute bollocks is a good way to put it.”

        You fell silent again as the old woman continued to grumble to herself. 

        You had taken this job when you’d started college, hoping the experience might couple nicely with your pokénursing degree. You knew your studies were about more than berries, but you also knew the knowledge would serve you well in the field—despite your lack of a green finger. It helped the pay was decent and earned you enough to justify saving. For what, you weren’t sure yet. Perhaps a car or your first apartment? Neither were things you were immediately concerned about yet. Still, the growing nest egg in your bank account offered some relief about the future. It was the one thing you could control without your parents’ meddling. 

        No matter how well they meant, you couldn’t deny the fact your life thus far had been following their roadmap: simple, quaint, and entirely out of your hands. You supposed part of it was your fault for not standing up for yourself when you’d gotten older. After all, it was easier to satisfy than to reject each of their whims. It’s why you’d stopped battling. It’s why you’d gone into pokénursing. It’s why you played to their tune during dinner parties. It’s why you ignored their white lies about you. And it’s why you didn’t say a word to them about any of it. The seed of shame settled in your stomach germinated once again. You wondered if Leon had noticed it, too.

        I wish, you thought, I was strong enough to be free.

        “Would’ya lookit that.” Linnea’s voice broke you from your thoughts. You angled your head to look at your boss between the trees. She was staring at something outside. You followed her gaze to what appeared to be a black blob swaying on the road outside. Moving closer to the window, you realized it was a hooded figure in a long cloak. They threw their arms around wildly, but you couldn’t hear them from inside the greenhouse. 

        You threw your head back, “Hey, Lynn, I’m going outside to check on the stand, okay?”

        “Okay, dearie.” She replied. “Let me know what’s going on out there when you're done.”

        Wedgehurst at midday tended to be quiet, even with the lunch rush. This was part of the reason the cloaked man was such a spectacle. The other being he was a cloaked man standing in the middle of the road. He behaved rather theatrically, yelling in an accent you didn’t think existed and flailing his arms about. From your spot by the stand—a wooden structure offering the morning’s harvest and a rusty money box, and only a couple meters from the man in question—you could see he was currently harassing a couple that found his display harmless. They chuckled among themselves and walked right past him. This, it seemed, wasn’t the reaction he was hoping for.

        A pokéball pinched between two fingers, he thrust his arm skyward and bellowed, “Someone, anyone—prove to me I’m the best! Challenge me to a battle if you dare! I’ll drag you through the dirt!”

        “Go home, idiot!” 

        “I won’t leave until someone battles me!”

        You rolled your eyes, but couldn’t help but chuckle as you leaned over the stand for a better view. Never in your life had you imagined seeing such a ridiculous display in this tiny town of Wedgehurst. Although you had never been an active participant, you had witnessed plenty of battles in backyards and parks—but you’d never seen them instigated quite this way. It made what had started as a boring shift all the more entertaining for you. You knew Linnea would get a kick out of it, too. But you supposed you’d been too loud, since the man suddenly turned and speared a finger in your direction. 

        “You won’t be laughing once I beat you in a battle!”

        You pointed to yourself in return, and the cloaked man nodded vigorously. He thrust his pokéball at you much like an eager child. Now, you were really laughing. You straightened, hooking your hands into your belt loops, and shook your head.

        “Sorry, mate, I’m not a trainer. Gonna have to reject your challenge.” You replied with a humored smile. It occurred to you at this point, you should’ve been chasing him off to soothe potential customers, but this exchange was just enough to spice up your day.

        “Bollocks! I see that pokéball in your pocket. Stop being a coward and battle me!”

        “Coward?” You narrowed your eyes. “Cause I don’t wanna battle you? That’s a thing to say.”

        “No. I’m just not afraid of a little challenge.”

        You raised your brows at him, clearly unimpressed. Did he think he’d provoke you into a battle with some half-hearted hit to your ego? It was like he wasn’t even trying. You sighed, “Listen, you should probably leave before you make yourself look like even more of a fool than you already do. If you want a battle, join the Gym Challenge like everyone else.”

        He lingered in the pathway a moment, his arm falling to his side as if he was genuinely mulling over your words. Then, you heard him scoff as he turned his back to you with a flourish of his cloak. Seriously, what was this guy’s damage?

        “Alright.” He said simply. “I’ll just go find someone who’s not a weakling.”

        “Yeah, have fun with that.” You waved your hand at him.

        “Did you not hear me? I said you’re weak!” He turned back to you, an edge to his tone. “You and that cowardly thing you call a pokémon!”

        You prickled immediately at the mention of Luxio. “What did you just say to me?”

        The man stopped a moment before leaning forward, obviously thrilled he had struck a nerve. You could hear his smirk as he retorted, “Your pokémon must be weak. That’s the only explanation that makes sense to me. Weak and sad—just like you.”

        “Piss off.” You snapped. “I mean it this time.”

        “Let me guess,” he put a hand to what you assumed was his chin, “it can barely hit a move without falling over itself. Or maybe it just hates you so much it doesn’t even try!”

        You clenched your jaw, your hand moving to the pocket Luxio laid in waiting. “You really wanna find out?”

        “Don’t need to.” He chuckled. “You’re all the proof I need.”

        Something about how those words hit, how personal they felt, left you twitching in rage. You curled your lip, turmoil coiling in your stomach. You hadn’t battled in so long—you knew you shouldn’t. But hearing him sully Dazzle’s name so casually… You couldn’t stand for it. Weak, huh? You’d show him weak. You’d crush him into the ground and bury him with how ‘weak’ you were. You'd done it before. You ripped Luxio’s pokéball from your pocket.

        The cloaked man, too, retrieved a pokéball from his belt and threw it into the air. A Nickit materialized from it in a burst of light and let out a growl, its pelt rippling in anticipation. The man chuckled, “Then it’s decided.”

        “Dazzle, let’s go!” You threw her pokéball into the air, and Luxio roared to life. She landed on the ground with claws unsheathed and belly low. She curled the tip of her tail in excitement as a couple of stray sparks of electricity spit off her mane. You then realized how long it’d been since you’d allowed her to fight. Immediately, you regretted letting yourself fall to his mockery so easily. How much power had she stored since then? Would it be too much? Would she be…dangerous? This was a mistake. 

        But it was too late.

        “Nickit, quick attack!” The cloaked man commanded. The Nickit was fast, scrambling across the battlefield in leaps and bounds of unadulterated vigor. Dismayed, you countered, “Dazzle, protect!”

        A blue shield sprung to life before Luxio when the Nickit slammed its tiny body into it. The red pokémon squealed in alarm as it rolled backward, dazed for a moment from the impact. Dazzle flicked her ear, something of a smirk crossing her muzzle. You took a breath.

        "Spark!"

        "Snarl!"

        Immediately, the Nickit shook off its shock, springing to its paws and letting loose a rumbling snarl you didn’t think capable of its little body. Dazzle tightened her muscles as the attack rattled deep in her bones. It had left a mark, but not enough to deter her. Shaking herself, you saw the sparks from earlier alight her mane, biting the air like fireworks, before shooting from her in a spray of lightning. It hit the Nickit like a barrage of bullets, and the pokémon cried as waves of electric energy rippled across its body. Stumbling, the Nickit tried to find its footing, but only managed to prop itself with two trembling front paws. A wave of yellow light flickered across its body.

        It was paralyzed!

        But your joy was short-lived as, in a heartbeat, the Nickit popped a tiny red berry from between its paws into its jaws. Juice dribbled sloppily between its fangs as it savored the spicy flavor with a purr. A moment later, you recognized it as a cheri berry. You gawked as it hopped toe to toe much faster than before, no longer paralyzed.

        "Come on now; you should know this!" The man taunted. "Don't you know one of Nickit's main abilities is Unburden?"

        Of course you knew that. Who didn't know that? It's not like you'd forgotten, obviously. You shook yourself. "Okay, Dazzle, go for an Ice Fang!"

        "You can do this, Nickit! Hone Claws, now!"

        The Nickit unsheathed her tiny claws and slashed in the air in preparation for her next move. In the same instance, Luxio lunged forward as frost chilled her maw, and she sank her icy teeth into the Nickit’s scruff. Flinching, the red pokémon squirmed uselessly in her jaws. Dazzle shook her in retaliation before throwing her back to the ground and retreating. Air catching in your throat, you watched as the Nickit struggled to stand. The attack had left it stunned, and its legs buckled, catching itself before eating dirt. You knew it was merely gathering itself, but the familiarity of the sight left you unnerved.

        Pull back, just a little, you thought. This doesn’t have to end badly.

        "Bite, Dazzle."

        "Snarl, again!"

        Dazzle advanced on the Nickit, but the red pokémon stood just in time to release another guttural sound that sent Luxio flying back. She landed on her paws in front of you, frustration prickling her blue pelt at the missed attack. Part of you found yourself relieved. Part of you knew this wouldn’t end until there was a clear winner. Your resolve about this whole thing was crumbling fast, and you found your hands growing hot and clammy. Another bolt of anxiety rippled your own skin, and you flexed your fingers to relieve some of the pressure. Dazzle looked back at you, her eyes narrowing, with visible strain on her features. You said nothing.

         "Quick attack, now, Nickit!" The man called. The Nickit let out an excited squeal, barreling towards Dazzle. It crashed into Luxio and slashed its tiny claws across her face and chest in quick, confident succession. Luxio yelped, retreating the moment Nickit jumped back to reclaim its ground. You didn't call out a move, but grimaced when you heard Dazzle huffing as her limbs trembled. She may have been strong, but you shouldn't have been surprised seeing how hard Nickit's moves hit her. She hadn't battled in so long; her defenses were terrible. Again, you said nothing.

        The cloaked man seemed to take a step back at this, thrown off by your lack of voice. He hooked a hand to his hip. "Delcatty got your tongue? Don't worry; I'll make this quick."

        Still, he took the moment of reprieve to bring a finger to his lips, turning from his Nickit, to Dazzle, to you. You could tell he was just as uncertain of your silence as you were despite his jeering. But you had already decided. It was clear the Nickit was utterly careless, quick on its feet, but lacked the foresight to expect a counter. It seemed it hadn’t learned from the last time either. You would use it to your advantage. After a heartbeat, the man called again, "Quick attack!"

        You just needed to wait.

        You watched, counting the seconds as it advanced on Dazzle. The Luxio shifted her own footing. She was unsure—rightfully so—but you knew she wouldn't move until you commanded. You hardened your jaw.

        And you did. The Nickit mere paces away, you yelled, "Dazzle, protect! Use its momentum!"

        Immediately, Luxio stepped back and crouched low. Her blue shield materialized the moment the Nickit jumped on her. With a surge of power, Dazzle pushed upward, throwing the tiny pokémon into the air. The Nickit flailed midair, its paws struggling to find leverage as it yelped. Instead, it hit the ground hard, its legs crumbling beneath it. It whined weakly and tried to get up, but couldn't find the strength. It stayed there. 

        Dazzle's shield dispersed. Breathlessly, you stumbled forward and gasped when you saw the Nickit had fainted. The man seemed to be in a state of shock as he retrieved his pokémon. He gazed down at its pokéball, mumbling something beneath his breath, before turning back to you. You swallowed thickly. 

        "That was a great battle, mate." He said. Around you, the small crowd that had gathered cheered.

        Suddenly, you heard a thump behind you, and you turned in time to see Luxio faint. You gasped, rushing to her side. A small smile graced her face as you took her into your arms. Despite being exhausted from the battle, a soft purr rumbled in her chest. You released the breath you hadn’t realized you’d been holding, relief flooding over you at the same moment. Luxio was okay, and the man wasn’t upset. In fact, he seemed rather pleased as he regarded you from his place across the battlefield. His Nickit would be well enough. Nothing a quick trip to the Pokécenter down the road couldn't fix. You flexed your clammy hands, trying to will the remaining anxiety from your body. 

        It was a feeling you hadn’t experienced in years. And perhaps it was then you understood the anxiety you were feeling was, in fact, the exhilaration of victory. Even if you hadn't necessarily won, you hadn't lost either; it was more than you could've asked for after so long. Your face erupted into a smile you couldn’t control. Falling to your knees, you embraced Dazzle. The Luxio seemed a bit more awake now as she wet your cheek with a kiss. You let loose a bell of laughter. Though you had forgotten in the folds of your youth, you remembered now. The two of you were an unstoppable force just waiting to be unleashed. Today, this battle, had proved it.

        This was your calling.

        Your celebration was cut short, though, when the cloaked man approached you. The two of you looked at him curiously. His demeanor seemed to have changed the moment Nickit fainted, and he extended a hand to you. After a moment, you allowed him to help you to your feet, Luxio cradled gently in the nook of your arm. At least he was a good sport about it.

        “Thank you for battling me.” He said. “You definitely proved me wrong.”

        “Well, maybe next time, don’t go harassing the locals, and you won’t have to have your ass handed to you in front of the whole town.” You chuckled, trying to sound as lighthearted as you intended.

        “You know,” he laughed, too, and his accent seemed to fade for a moment. Part of you wondered if you recognized his voice, but it returned all too soon as he continued, “I think I’ll take that bit of advice.”

        You nodded, “The Pokécenter is right down the road, right side. You can’t miss it. Stop by before you go, will you?”

        The man nodded, and you imagined he was smiling beneath his cloak. You waved him goodbye as he turned down the road and over the crest into the thick of town. Standing here, you felt something lightening in your chest—a heavy weight that had burdened you for twelve long years. Glancing down at Luxio, you knew she felt the same. You reached to thread your hands through her mane, and she blinked at you lovingly, the purr in her throat vibrating against your palm. You murmured, "You know, Daz... maybe Leon was right. Maybe it's not too late to get back into it."

        Dazzle let out a grunt of approval.

        "'S'cuse me, missy!" The both of you turned to see Linnea standing in the doorway of the greenhouse, one hand on her hip and the other pointing the shears at you. "You better not be kicking ass on my dime."

        You laughed, "Just helping the tourists, Lynn."

        "That's what I thought." She nodded, a satisfied smile settling on her lips. "Now get back in here and do some actual work."

Chapter Text

Around U - MUNA

        It wasn't long before you had to say goodbye to Linnea. Your studies complete and degree in-hand, it was time to start your internship at the Wedgehurst Pokécenter. On the day of your final shift, she stopped you at the door.

        "Good luck on this new adventure of yours, dearie." She said. "But just remember, it's never too late to change your mind."

        You tried not to show the pain in your heart when you thanked her and wished her well. You understood her words were well-intentioned. You also understood she wasn't referring to your leaving, but you pretended you didn't anyway, because it was easier than telling her the truth. She had been that day with the cloaked man—the day you had battled for the first time in twelve years—and she had shared in your victory. It would be a day you would soon come to regret, for you had forgotten one crucial detail about that day. After all, Linnea had not been the only one to witness that battle.

        You weren't sure who had done it. You weren't sure if it had gotten to them by letter or by word of mouth. You weren't sure if their intentions had been malicious or had merely been a passing thought. You only knew word spread fast in the tiny town of Wedgehurst, and it had somehow made its way to the other side of the region, to the Rose Tower, and into the hands of your parents. You shouldn't have been surprised to find your mother waiting for you in the living room days later, her eyes a glare of pure vitriol that pierced completely through you. She told you to sit, and you did. Anxiety simmered in your stomach.

        "Do you have something you need to tell me?" She growled, before holding a finger up and spitting. "No, I know you have something you need to tell me. Out with it."

        "Mum, I—"

        "Did you or did you not battle someone in the middle of town for everyone to see?"

        "Mum, it's not like that, he—"

        "Answer," she snarled, "the question."

        You swallowed thick and hard, the anxiety trembling your entire body now. You gripped the couch cushions to steady yourself. "Yes, I battled someone."

        "Who was it?"

        "I don't know."

        "How could you not know?" Your mother snapped. "Do you think I'm stupid? Is this some kind of game to you?"

        "No, mum, he just—it was some guy in a coat! He came into town and just started harassing people!"

        "What, so you thought you'd play hero? Save the people of Wedgehurst from a mean man in a coat?"

        "No, I..." You stammered, suddenly at a loss for words. Your gaze wandered to the ground. "I don't know what I thought..."

        It was true. You hadn't been thinking when you'd sent Luxio onto the battlefield. Some part of you knew it would have been better to walk away, to stick to the sidelines as you had always done. The man's words had stung a part of you you thought you had sealed off, but if you had really tried... If you had really wanted to...

        "Look at me." Your mother seized your chin, snapping your eyes to hers. You winced in her grasp, but said nothing as she continued, "This? This is over with. Whatever you were doing or thinking, it ends now. I refuse to let you throw away everything we've built with another one of your 'accidents.' Do you understand me?"

        Her words split your heart and immediately, tears burned your eyes. You weren't really looking at her now, but her silhouette blurring in your vision as you tried to control the hole opening in your chest. When you didn't reply, she threw your chin from her palm and you let your eyes fall back to the floor. Your hold on the cushions was shaking now, but you were too far away to ground yourself. Your mother let out a disgusted sound, standing with a click of her heels.

        "If I ever hear about something like this happening again," she spat, "you can say goodbye to that fucking Luxio and everything you have ever gotten it."

        Your head snapped up to her, flinching at the unadulterated scorn on her face. Your mouth was dry as you said, "What... What do you mean?"

        "Your father is the one who wanted to let you keep that thing. I knew we should have gotten rid of it the moment we learned you couldn't be trusted with it. I never should have let it into my goddamn house. But your father still insists we should give you another chance. So you get one more chance to prove me wrong." She popped her index finger up, snarling, "One."

        And one more chance you had.

        You didn't remember much of what happened next, only the fear burning in your stomach as you sat there for much longer than you should have. You remembered quietly vomiting into the toilet when she finally went to bed. You remembered Luxio curled close to you as you stared up at your bedroom ceiling and tried not to cry. Your mother did not go back to Wyndon that night, or the night after that. She didn't need to. Someone needed to be home to watch you. While your father worked in Wyndon, your mother stayed close, watching your every movement as if waiting for the chance to enact her revenge. You retreated to your studies, just as you had always done. You did not play with Luxio or glimpse matches on the television.

        Standing outside the Wedgehurst Pokécenter in the rising sun, you were glad for the reprieve from your mother's guard. You took a breath, pressing down the apron you'd bought at the beginning of your schooling, and stepped inside the brick building. Inside was warm and comfortable, low-lit with chandeliers on dark wood walls and scarce of people. The morning forecast murmured from a television mounted over a bar. Across from the bar, a man tended a small market of wares and trinkets. He offered you a friendly wave. You nodded at him and looked ahead. Nurse Joy smiled at you from behind the counter. 

        "Welcome! You must be the new intern." Her voice put you at ease.

        "Yes," you replied, "it's my first day."

        "Well, usually employees enter through the back, but since you're the newbie, you can hop over the counter so we can get started." She winked. "But only this once!"

        "Yes, miss."

        Approaching the counter, you pushed yourself onto the red surface and swung your legs over to the other side. You landed with a soft thump against the hardwood. Nurse Joy nodded, "Good. Now, what do you remember from your classes?"

        "Oh, well—"

        "Uh-uh." She wagged a gentle finger at you and said, "That was a trick question. Everything you remember from school? Throw it all away; half of it you'll never need and the other half is twenty years outdated. You're starting fresh here."

        "O-Oh," you stammered, "I didn't know. Sorry..."

        "No need for apologies!" She laughed. "All the newbies are told this. The important thing is that you learn all you can today, so you can know for tomorrow."

        "Yes, miss."

        "What's this 'miss' business? You're making me feel old!" She laughed a sweet sound. "Just call me Joy."

        "Yes ma—er, Joy."

        And so, Nurse Joy showed you where the potions and status heals and ethers were kept beneath the counter. She showed you the healing machine and used pokémon from the Rotomi to demonstrate how it worked. It looked much different than what you had seen in your textbooks. She explained how important it was to heal the pokémon in boxes so they would be comfortable, something your textbook had also failed to mention. Your main responsibilities here would be to do just that alongside servicing the Trainers who visited with sick or weak pokémon. She told you the healing equipment in the back was much more advanced, and would be better saved for when you were more comfortable with the main stuff. Your head spinning, you did your best to follow along. 

        "You'll also need to keep track of supplies and call in to order more when we're low." Joy continued. "But sometimes, we forget or we run out in the middle of a particularly busy day. That's okay, because we have a little trick up our sleeves."

        The two of you stood in front of a refrigerator in the supply room. When she opened to it, you peered into it curiously before grinning, "Berries."

        "We get our main supply from Linnea down the road. You used to work for her, right?"

        "Yes, actually!"

        "Then I guess you don't need me to explain what these do." Joy shut the door and turned to you with a smile. "Do us a favor and get us some discounts on the next batch, won't you?"

        You laughed, but perked when a bell sounded overhead. The woman beside you nodded, "Someone just came in. Let's head upfront."

        A purple-haired boy leaned against the counter, thrumming his fingers on the smooth surface as he looked about the lobby idly. You recognized him as Hop, Sonia's assistant and Leon's younger brother, but only in passing. He had grown taller the past few years. Joy greeted him, "Good morning, Hop! How's your research going with Professor Sonia?"

        The boy turned to the both of you and grinned, "We're close, but I'm in a bit of a hurry. No time to chat when the future of all Galar's in your hands! Mind healing up these pokémon for me?"

        "Of course. This will only take a moment." Joy took the pokéballs from the boy and glanced at you. "Watch while I do this, okay?"

        You peered over her shoulder as she slipped the pokéballs into the six slots on the healing machine, popping into place with a satisfying ping. Then, she cranked a knob and pressed a button. The pokéballs alit with a blue pulse as the images of the pokémon materialized on the screen overhead. It only took a moment before Joy was handing the pokéballs back to him, saying, "Simple, right? I'll let you try the next one."

        "Get-in!" Hop exclaimed, gathering the pokéballs back into his sling bag. "Catch you later, Nurse Joy, New Lady!"

        You watched him bound out the door before turning to Joy with a smirk. "New Lady? Was he talking about me?"

        "Yes," Joy sighed with a chuckle, "he hasn't learned how to slow down and talk to people yet. Don't mind him."

        "That's Leon's brother, right?" You asked. "Wasn't he in the Gym Challenge a few years ago? When did he get in with the Professor?"

        "Oh, yes, he made it to the semi-finals, but he didn't win. I think he started researching Galar's energy crisis with Sonia soon after. Chairman Rose might've been mental, but he wasn't wrong about planning for the future." She paused. "They're just doing it in a less... extreme way."

        Yeah, I would hope so, you thought. You recalled taking shelter in the greenhouse with Linnea the evening of the Darkest Day. Even all the way in Wedgehurst, the ground had rumbled and split, short of swallowing the town whole. Your heart near stopped beating altogether from the fear. You had learned later Leon had saved the day, just as he always did. Still, the damage would take yet another year to clean up. There wouldn't be much crisis to fix if Galar had fallen that day.

        You nodded. It was then the bell sounded again and another Trainer strutted up to the counter. "Hey, could you heal my team?"

        Joy gestured to you. "Give it a try."

        The sun was low in the sky by the time your shift ended. People muddled the pathways, passersby on their way home, and murmured about the day's happenings. A band of children screamed joyfully as they played with their pokémon outside their houses. You walked home alone.

        Nurse Joy had praised your progress. She had been pleasantly surprised by your adeptness, calling you a 'natural.' You tried not to think about how much it reminded you of your mother's words and thanked her anyway. Besides, you would be lying if you said Joy was wrong. The day had been an informational overload, much of which was missing from your textbooks and class notes just as Joy had said, but you had taken to it like an Impidimp to nobbling. Surprisingly, you felt a surge of excitement for your next shift. It was refreshing to have something you were good at and didn't have to hide. Stretching, you let out a sigh of relief when a joint or two popped. 

        But your excitement would not last.

        Coming home, you were surprised to find the house was silent. A note on the coffee table told you your mother had gone to Motostoke to speak with a potential client, and to please get the mail. Sighing, you wished she had just texted you. Once you retrieved the mail, you paged through it without really paying attention. Most of it was spam or bills or letters for your parents, all things you would leave as an orderly pile on the dinner table for your mother to sort through later—except for the small white box addressed to you. You tilted your head curiously. 

        "Weird." You murmured to yourself. "I don't remember ordering a package..."

        You flipped it over in your hands. There was nothing distinguishing about it; its sides were blank of logos or brand names, but it did have a red 'Handle With Care' stamp along the front. Even the sender name you couldn't fully read—the sticker had been abbreviated for space, it seemed—but it appeared to have come from Wyndon. Maybe your father had gotten you something there? None of you had been to Wyndon in a long time. It wouldn't be too far-fetched to believe he'd sent you a souvenir. Setting the package down, you quickly changed out of your work clothes and released Dazzle from her pokéball before ripping off the packing tape.

        The inside of  the package was stuffed with old newspapers and bubble wrap. Digging around, you felt something cold, smooth, and circular brush your fingertips. You pulled it out and immediately furrowed your brows. It was a pokéball. You could already tell a pokémon resided inside as you rolled it in the palm of your hand. Considering recent events, you couldn't help but wonder if this was some kind of sick joke. You set the pokéball onto the table and drew more of the stuffing out. Two letters rested at the bottom: one, a simple white note addressed to you in neat handwriting; the other, a tan envelope sealed with a wax stamp. Your heart jumped the slightest of beats.

        Carefully you opened the white note first.

        Looks like you were able to beat a Nickit after all.

        Leon.

        You stiffened, your body falling numb as you stared at the paper in your hand. A note from Leon about beating a Nickit? How had he known? Certainly small town gossip wasn't important enough to reach the Champion of all people! You turned it over in your hand once, twice, thrice, trying to make sense of what you were looking at. Beside you, Luxio narrowed her eyes as if in deep thought. You threw the note onto the table and grabbed the tan envelope with a quick, shaky hand. You struggled to unfold the letter inside.

This letter is to certify its Holder has hereby been Endorsed by Champion Leon of the Galar Region to partake in the 2022 Gym Challenge as proven by the accompanying Signature and Notary on this Date 20th of June, 2022.

        You stared in shock, the paper crinkling in your grasp. "This... This is an endorsement letter. Leon endorsed me? Dazzle, do you know what this means?"

        The Luxio looked up at her with a glimmer in her eye. You nodded, "We can join the Gym Challenge... Dazzle, we- we could battle Leon!"

        Immediately, you dropped the letter and brought Luxio into your arms, laughing wildly. You spun around the dining room, the numbness in your arms melting away to exhilaration, and Luxio let out a mrrow of joy. You pressed your face into her mane and let loose another shout of victory and she, a rumbling purr that told you she was just as ready for this as you were. But your celebration was cut short by a bullet of thought that chilled your skin.

        "If I ever hear about something like this happening again you can say goodbye to that fucking Luxio and everything you have ever gotten it."

        Your blood ran cold. You stopped short, peeling Luxio from you with disbelieving eyes. Dazzle gazed back at you, her own confused and perhaps a bit frightened by your change in demeanor. If your mother found out about this... You didn't want to think about it. But you knew she'd carry through with her promise; she was a businesswoman with a spine of steel whether it was with a client, or with her own daughter. Leon endorsing you? It'd be like setting yourself on fire if you even implied it. You shook your head and set her down, and the blue creature pawed at your leg. You hung your head. You couldn't loose Dazzle.

        She was all you had.

        "Dazzle... I'm sorry, but we can't." Your voice broke.

        The Luxio let out a growl of protest, her teeth suddenly clamping onto your trousers and tugging. You tried to step away, but she held fast, glaring up at you as if you'd slighted her.

        "Dazzle, please..." You knelt, trying to pry her off. "You know, we just... We're not fit for something like that."

        Then, she did something she had never done before and would never do again. Crying, she jumped from your hands, only to lunge forward again as her teeth sunk into your arm. It wasn't enough to draw blood, but enough for you to jolt back with a yelp and fall on your rump. You stared at her wide-eyed and blinking as she snarled at you, her tail lashing fiercely. She ranted loudly and paced the ground, glaring at you as she pleaded her case. When she finished, she turned to you and flared her nose.

        The house fell silent once more.

        Carefully, you got to your feet, cradling your arm less out of pain and more from the betrayal piercing your heart. Some part of you knew you deserved this; you had denied her for so long. But... You had never thought she'd turn her anger on you. You clenched your fist. "Dazzle, do you understand why I'm saying no? Do you know what's at stake?"

        The Luxio snorted crossly.

        "They'll take you away, Dazzle." You growled. "Mum and Dad, they'll separate us if they find out about this. Is this what you want? Do you want to be taken from me?"

        Dazzle opened her mouth, but nothing came out. Finally, she pressed her ears flat and turned her back to you. She didn't know what to say. You sighed, letting your arm fall to your side as you knelt down to her height once more. You pet her side and, to your relief, she leaned into your touch. Your voice was soft. "We can't just leave... I... I'm not strong enough to leave. I'm a coward, Dazzle. I'm sorry."

        The little Luxio looked at you then, her eyes just as wet and sad as yours. She crawled into your lap. Defeat hung heavy on her limbs as she curled into your arms. You stood and held her close, and hoped the warmth of you body might lighten the hurt she felt. You turned your sights to the endorsement on the table. You picked it up, your heart breaking when your hand brushed the paper, sliced the skin. This was your own fault.

        "We need to hide this." You murmured. "We can't let them find out. Okay, Daz?"

        At first, you rushed into the kitchen, intent on burying the paper between the layers of refuse in your bin. It would find itself in a landfill eventually, and then you'd never have to worry about it again. Your parents could live ignorant of it forever. It would be easy and efficient. So, why were you hesitating? You stared into the depths of rubbish before you as terror struck you. For as much of a coward as you were, you couldn't bring yourself to throw the paper away. You stepped away.

        Instead, you ran into your room and lifted the edge of your mattress. Tucking the endorsement and the pokéball underneath, you sighed, but felt little relief. You collapsed on your knees and threw a hand to your face as the tears sprouted. Dazzle settled beside you and rested a comforting paw on your thigh. You wished you had the strength to look at her in that moment.

        "They can't find out."

Chapter Text

True Seekers - Sleigh Bells

        It would be inevitable the letter would be found.

        You did not acknowledge this. You went to the Pokécenter the next day and pretended it never happened. Pretending, it seemed, was the one thing you were truly good at. It helped, too, you had something to distract you at the moment. Joy was none the wiser beside you.

        "It has to be a gentle, but firm motion." She instructed, placing your hands into position on the Eevee's shoulder. "Don't rely on hearing the pop; if you do it right, you'll feel it go back into place."

        "Alright, yeah. Gentle, but firm." You nodded.

        The Eevee looked up at you with pitiful, innocent eyes and a part of you almost felt guilty he'd fallen off his owner's couch. Of course, it wasn't your fault he had partially dislocated his shoulder, but cute things had a way of making people feel bad for things that weren't their fault. You did a test motion, rocking the pokémon's shoulder in the way Joy had shown you, and looked to her for approval. She adjusted your thumb a little lower, but gave you a satisfied smile. "Just like that. You can't stop midway through or you might dislocate it completely."

        "Okay, I'm doing it now." You flexed your fingers, taking a breath. "Please don't bite me, Eevee."

        You closed your eyes a moment, willing the nerves in your hands to calm, then adjusted the Eevee's shoulder upward. Just as Joy had told you, you felt the joint roll back into the socket and the brown pokémon yelped from the sharp pang. Instinctively, you flinched back as nervous laughter rattled your jaw. Joy took over quickly, assessing your handiwork and whispering affirmations into the Eevee's fur. Then, she nodded. "Looks good! Since it was only a partial dislocation, he won't need a sling. But no more nosedives off the couch for you, mister!"

        The Eevee, deciding Joy was much nicer than you, cried happily and leapt onto her apron with a shower of grateful kisses all over her face. Now, you felt a twinge of jealousy—cute things tended to do that when they disliked you. 

        You brought the Eevee out from the back, trying to cradle him in your arms despite his protests and squirming, and handed him back to his owner. The boy hugged the tiny creature to his chest. "Oh, Eevee, I'm so glad you're okay!"

        "You should focus on low-energy activities for the next few days so the joint can heal." You said, offering a smile. "And maybe no more couch hopping for fun. The floor is, in fact, not made of lava."

        The boy nodded enthusiastically, rubbing his cheek against Eevee's. "Thanks, miss!"

        You cringed at the way he said 'miss,' but before you could say anything more, the boy and his pokémon fled the building the same moment Joy drew alongside you. You cast her a sympathetic glance. "Now I get what you mean about feeling old."

        The pink-haired woman laughed, then turned to you, "You did well. With small teams like that, it's much more efficient to treat injuries yourself. Plus, if we ever lose power, well, you won't be able to rely on the healing machine without a sufficient energy source. We had to work double-time on The Darkest Day; a lot of pokémon got hurt, we lost power, and we had to treat them all by hand."

        "I remember that." You nodded. "People were running in here for days."

        "And that's why it's better to know. Helps in the field, too. Some Trainers have even come in here asking to be taught basic techniques so they don't have to worry when they're out training."

        Immediately, you cleared your throat and shifted, "Hey, I think I'll be good here alone if you want to go to lunch."

        "Are you sure?" Joy tilted her head. "It's only your second day."

        "Yeah, I learn better on my own anyway. I'll just get you if something happens."

        Of course, you didn't want to be alone, but any way to get out of any Trainer talk seemed like a healthy decision for you at the moment. This turned out to be wrong.

        The television over the bar murmured much louder without Joy to talk to. Of all things, it was broadcasting Trainers from all over the region registering for the Gym Challenge. In the morning rush, you hadn't noticed. Now, it bellowed in your ears like an angry Exploud. You glanced at the man behind the market counter, then the barman, and both were too engrossed with what was on the television to notice you. It occurred to you to ask them to change the channel, but, then again, the Gym Challenge was an annual tradition heralded by every citizen of Galar. What kind of freak would you be to not want to watch it?

        You sighed and let your head rest on the counter, hoping the wood might muffle out some of the sound. It partially worked.

        "For the next week, Trainers from all over the region and beyond will be flocking to Motostoke to sign up for the Gym Challenge, an event many Trainers describe as the chance of a lifetime."

        "I'm not interested in making friends. Bunnie's here to reach the top for all my loyal Fluffles out there—oh, thank you, thank you for the applause! A little louder please."

        "Last year, I couldn't get anyone to endorse me. It sucked, but this year? I'm here to kick ass and take names! This one is for you, Mr. Morimoto; thanks for the endorsement!"

        "YEAH, WOOOOOO, LET'S GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! NATE FOR THE WIN, BABY!"

        "My, we certainly have a lively bunch this year, don't we?"

        "That we do. But not everyone seems to be on the same page this year. The activist group 'Freedom Fighters' have been staking out near Pokécenters across multiple towns protesting this year's Gym Challenge. Representatives of the group say the annual Gym Challenge is an act of pokémon cruelty that should be ended immediately and its participants charged."

        "Do they plan on arresting the entire region? The Champion, too?"

        "It sure seems like it."

        "Ridiculous." The barman scoffed, turning a glass over in his hand as he wiped the rim with his rag. "Kids these days—spineless, entitled brats runnin' this country into the ground..."

        You grimaced and said nothing.

        Much of the week continued like this, your only reprieve being the Trainers rushing into the Pokécenter with a sick pokémon here and an injured one there. Joy left you alone longer and longer, and only interjected when she needed to train you on ailments you hadn't encountered before. Mostly, you thought about the letter and the pokéball sealed away under your mattress. It sent a shiver of anxiety up your spine even now. You still didn't have the strength to throw it away. You also didn't want to release the pokémon inside. What if it had been sent by mistake? Why would Leon ever send you a pokémon in the mail? A letter was one thing; a pokémon was entirely different. 

        Certainly, the entire thing must've been a mistake; some kind of miscommunication on an assistant's part. People don't just get endorsements and pokémon from the Champion, and especially not people like you. Leon was just your parents' client and you were their nobody daughter in a small town that barely knew your name. You two had only spoken at most an hour. He had never seen you battle. What motivation would he have to reach out like this? You decided neither was ever intended for you. It was all some strange coincidence that the package had ended up in your lap. Yeah, that was it. 

        You still couldn't throw it away.

        You'd thought to return the package to its sender. You'd tried, actually, but you only ended up standing in the middle of the post office as patrons walked past you and ogled. You'd stared at the package for a long time, turning it over in your hand, at the unsteady stripes of packing tape you'd wrapped around it. There was something so... permanent about it. Panic welled in your stomach as the lights overhead caught on the reflective strips. Eventually, a patron had bumped into your shoulder on their way out with little more than a mumble. You'd walked out then, too. 

        So there the letter and the pokéball stayed, stored in a white unmarked box beneath your bed. You imagined dust had already settled in the creases of the cardboard and your lips pulled into a frown at the thought. Unfortunately, you were too busy to dwell on that at the moment. A Trainer had plopped her bag on the counter, Rotom Phone in hand, and snapped her gum between her teeth. A couple of the pokéballs had rolled onto the ground with a sharp clink of steel. She continued to scroll through her feed.

        "Hey, heal my team, 'kay?"

        "Of course." Sighing, you gathered the pokéballs that had fallen into your arms. "This will only take a moment."

        You pushed the pokéballs into the slots and watched as they were captured in a blue pulse. It was then your eyes caught the television over the bar. Ignore it, you thought. Your ears perked anyway.

        "Just one more day until registration for the Gym Challenge is closed. With only a few bright-eyed stragglers remaining, things are already starting to wrap up here in Motostoke. Favorites have already sprung up on social media—specifically Challenger #681, Nate, who's skipped the opening ceremony to blaze a trail across half of Galar with his trusty partner, Vileplume. A controversial move for sure, but even critics can't deny his raw talent. Who will you be rooting for this Challenge season?"

        You felt a twinge of jealousy when Nate's image appeared on the screen: a teenage boy with dusty hair and a confident smile. That was another thing you'd dealt with the past week. If you weren't nursing your anxiety, you were tousling the jealousy that burned at the base of your spine every time the Gym Challenge crossed your mind. They'd aired mini-interviews with some of the participants during the middle of the week. So many of them described how supportive their circles had been; how freeing it was to chase their dreams after so long. Meanwhile, your mother yelled at you every time she caught you watching anything about battling. It must be nice, you thought bitterly.

        "Um, how much longer is this going to take? I have to get to Motostoke, like, right now!"

        You jolted, embarrassment muddling your cheeks, and scrambled across the healing machine. You plucked the pokéballs off at a desperate pace and a couple fell from your palm onto the floor. You swooped to pick them up as the Trainer snapped her gum again. "Are you serious?"

        "S-sorry!" You exclaimed. You practically threw them back onto the counter and gasped, "Please come again!"

        "Yeah, no, that's definitely not happening." The Trainer rolled her eyes and swept the pokéballs into her bag. "'Ta, I guess."

        When she left, you threw your face into your hands and leaned onto the counter, drawing out a heavy sigh. The barman chuckled, "It's an excitin' time for everyone. Not surprised ya got distracted; I've done it, too. Don't worry yerself."

        "Yeah, super exciting." You mumbled behind your palm.

        Soon, you were poking at a bowl of cold noodles in the back. Lunch breaks were the worst because—unlike the counter where you had the Trainers to berate you and the television to be angry with—you only had yourself to blame for the thoughts seeping in. And you had many. Sure, you were still hung up on why the package had turned up in the first place, but nowadays, you couldn't help but wonder what it'd be like if you did join. It was a part of that trickle of jealousy pricking your spine. Well, more like a rush of wind catching your feet and barreling you towards Motostoke and, most importantly, away from everything you had ever known.

        What would it be like, to rough the tangles of the Wild Area? To travel the roads from town to town in search of your next piece of victory? To rush the bustling streets of Wyndon to the stadium with Dazzle and the rest of your team? 

        To claim the title of Champion for yourself?

        The idea left you winded and you sucked in a long breath to steady the beat of your heart. Of course, these were merely fantasies. You couldn't just up and leave. You loved your family and you were happy to resign to your position in the Pokécenter. What would you even do if you left? Get lost in the wilds, get lost on the road, and never make it to Wyndon, much less Motostoke. You couldn't be bothered with imagining what being Champion would be like, either. Leon's entire gimmick was being unbeatable. What made you so special to think you'd be the one to dethrone him?

        You decided you must have some kind of narcissistic tendencies, if you weren't completely delusional that is.

        You weren't like Nate. You couldn't plow through the Gym Leaders and wow the audience with your talent. You didn't have the drive or the experience. You didn't have the strong team you'd caught and trained all on your own. You didn't have dusty hair and a confident smile. It was just you and Dazzle—and you were a coward.

        Joy popped her head into the lounge. "Hey, sorry, I know you're at lunch, but mind coming to the front? I have something I want to show you. You can take an extra break once we're done."

        "Yeah," you sighed, slipping the top back onto your untouched noodles, "I'm just about finished."

        You'd never join the Gym Challenge, anyway.

        You walked home alone again. It was much quieter on the streets tonight—probably because most people were curled up in their living rooms, their televisions flipped to broadcasts of the Gym Challenge, and buzzing with the excitement of the coming day. Tomorrow would be the last day for sign-ups after all and, while Nate had satiated their immediate thirst for battle, there was no avoiding the inevitable. The people wanted a show. You only wished you could join in the festivities. 

        Instead, you unlocked your front door to a dark house. 

        "Mum?" You called, kicking off your shoes. "I'm home!"

        No one responded.

        "Anybody home?" You repeated. Your ears perked when you heard the creak of the floorboards overhead. It was then you noticed the faint flood of light staining the upstairs hallway. Wasn't that your room? Had your mother left your light on for you? You remembered the package with a shot of nerves.

        Carefully, you padded up the stairs and turned into your room. Your breath caught in your throat as your worst nightmare unfolded before your eyes.

        "What," your mother rumbled, "is this?"

        She held the opened parcel in one hand and the endorsement letter in the other. You should have destroyed it when you had the chance.

        "Mum, I can explain, I—"

        "You've been plotting... behind our backs... with our most important client?" Her words were sharp and slow, laced with a swallowed rage you weren't sure she could hold back for long. Your heart skipped a beat. 

        "No, it's not like that at all! I—"

        "Then what? Did you sell yourself?" Your mother laughed sadistically and shook the paper with visceral disgust. "Because Arceus knows you couldn't get this any other way."

        Sell yourself? You stopped short, your heart splitting agonizingly slow in your chest. You stared at her with wide, wet eyes. "Is... Is that really what you think of me?"

        "Oh, please," she scoffed, "I didn't mean it like that. Grow up."

        Grow up, she said... Grow up. 

        Something in you snapped. The wetness in your eyes melted and you clenched your fist instead. "No, mum, I want to know. What did you actually mean? That I'm- I'm some slag that opens her legs just to piss you off?"

        "Why are you mad at me? You're the one sneaking around behind our backs!" Your mother retorted, thrusting the letter forward. "What else am I supposed to think when I see you hiding shit like this under your bed?"

        Your jaw hardened and you broke her gaze. "I wasn't sneaking around. I don't know why he sent me that. I never even wanted it!"

        "That's bullshit and you know it." Your mother advanced on you, and in the faint light of the room, she looked like a monster breaking from the darkness. She speared a finger in your face. "I told you what would happen if something like this happened again. Where is it?"

        "You're not taking her."

        There was a bout of silence, thick with tension near ready to explode. 

        "Excuse me?"

        You lit the fuse. "You're not taking Dazzle away from me."

        "I'm not screwing around." Your mother seethed. You could feel her hot breath buffeting your cheek. "Hand it over now."

        You snapped to face her, your eyes wild with a rage you'd never felt before. The woman stumbled back when you stepped forward. "Or what? You're gonna hit me? Kick me out? Tell everyone how I sold myself to the Champion for a bloody piece of paper? Do it then—I don't care! I'm not letting you take anything else away from me!"

        It was then you realized your voice had gone raw, stripped with the words you had just screamed in her face. The woman stared back at you, her eyes a dark pit of fury you saw nothing in. She lifted her hand and, with a strange kind of gratification, you watched as she opened her palm. It wasn't until your face was to the floor did you realize she had slapped you. You touched your cheek. It burned spitefully beneath your fingertips from the sheer force of her palm. The endorsement letter laid crumpled beside you. You curled your other hand into the carpet and looked back up at her, your lips pulling with a snarl.

        "Fuck. You." You spat. The fury flickered in her gaze for only a moment before reigniting with vengeful wrath.

        "Get out of my house." She exploded. "Now!"

        You didn't respond. You merely snatched the endorsement letter and got to your feet, glaring at her as you shoved your way back into what was once your room. There was a bag you'd kept under your bed from when you were in high school. It was much too small for travel, but you weren't bringing much anyway.

        "Your father and I have given you everything. And this is how you treat us? Do you realize how bad this is going to make our family look?"

        You packed a couple of changes of clothes. Some warm socks, some sweaters and T-shirts and different trousers for the weather—jeans would serve you well. Where was your jacket?

        "Oh, the silent treatment now, huh? You're a joke, you know that?"

        You couldn't forget your charger. Or the thermos you stashed by your nightstand. It had kept you warm on cold winter days you'd had to walk to school. You'd definitely need that.

        "What are you even going to do? Join the Gym Challenge? Go on then. Make us look worse than you already do."

        You figured your trainers would do fine for now. You didn't really have room for another pair of shoes anyway. You filled the rest of the space with your hairbrush, deodorant, and some toilettes you saved in your nightstand for emergencies. 

        "You won't last a single night out there by yourself. Don't come crying to us if something happens to you—again."

        You slipped the letter into the front pocket alongside the pokéball Leon had given you. You retrieved Dazzle's from the top drawer of your dresser and held her tight to your chest as you turned back into the hallway. Slinging the backpack over your shoulder, you barely looked at the woman hot on your heels as you descended the stairs.

        "Think about this for one second! You know you're no good at any of this. We didn't take anything away from you—you ruined it for yourself! You have a loving family, a good job, a future—why throw it away so you can go- go traipsing through the country like some homeless? What's the sense in that? What more could you possibly want?"

        You stopped at the door, your hand twisting the doorknob midway as her words finally caught up to you.

        What more could you possibly want?

        You worked your jaw a moment, parted and closed it, before closing your eyes with a sad chuckle. You glanced back at her one final time and tried not to jolt at the rawness on her face. You frowned.

        "Something you'd never approve of." You turned your back to her. "Goodbye."

        The sleeper train to Motostoke would take all night. There was a Rotomi at the station and you withdrew all the money you'd hoarded in your savings. The ticket was much cheaper than you thought, and the clerk furrowed a worried brow when he noticed the red patch on your cheek. You didn't explain. You simply stashed your backpack in the overhead and crawled into your cot. The duvet was thin and a little prickly and nothing like yours against your chin. With any luck, you could sleep through the chill and the echoes of your mother's cries in the dark silence of your berth cabin.

Chapter Text

GLAM! - Allie X

        You considered yourself a practical person. At least, you tended to be. It was the one trait you had inherited from your parents that didn't twist your stomach at the thought.

        This? Was anything but practical.

        Groaning, you threw a hand over your eyes at the sunlight spilling through the cabin window. It took you a moment to remember where you were, but between the hum of the engine and the muffled whistle of the sleeper train, the memories flooded back like a punch to the face. The ache of your cheek felt like it, at least. You touched your fingertips to it and winced when a pang stung the swollen skin. It hadn't seemed to bruise, but it wasn't done with you just yet either. Well, you thought, at least no one can say I can't take a hit. You chuckled at the thought, only to frown a heartbeat later. There was nothing practical about this.

        With a sigh, you rubbed the sleep from your eyes and sat up. You grabbed your phone you'd left charging in a nearby socket the night before. When the screen blinked to life, you grimaced. That was a lot of missed calls. Your parents had made quick work of filling your inbox, and you didn't even want to think about what those 200 unread text messages said. Perhaps they were begging you to come home. Perhaps they were cursing you out for leaving. Maybe they were just wondering if you'd screwed up yet. Quietly, you swiped them all into your trash. When you hesitated over the block button, you took a breath and pressed it anyway. This was the practical solution.

        You set your phone face down on the cot and stood to stretch. Your muscles quivered satisfactorily and, with a sigh, you felt something in your lower back pop ever so slightly. The cot hadn't been uncomfortable, but it certainly hadn't been your bed either. You found yourself missing the perfect impression you'd made on the mattress after years of sleeping in the same position. The dip in your cot was already gone. At least you wouldn't be sleeping here again. Motostoke awaited and, from what you remembered, the Gym Challenge offered you a hotel for the first night. You weren't sure what you'd do from then on out; you hadn't brought a tent—you didn't own one. You made a note to stop by the shop before you left.

        You must've been close to Motostoke by now. Leaning over the cot, you rolled the blind up. Outside, the world was bright and green, the Wild Area below the mountain pass faded with distance and a touch of the summer sun. It was then you realized you had never seen the Wild Area in person before. Awe caught in your throat at the grassy countryside trembling in the wind rolling down the mountainside. Bends of forests curved the landscape, split by sky-stained river valleys and lakes trickling towards the horizon. Further down the track, the calloused spiral of the Watchtower Ruins breached the lip of the rock outcrop like an ancient chalice toasting the dawn. Even from here, you spotted wisps of silhouettes flickering between the leaves and waves and stone. 

        "Wow..." You breathed. Suddenly, you remembered Dazzle in your bag in the compartment overhead and you scrambled to retrieve her. She needed to see this, too. She burst from her pokéball and immediately blinked in confusion at the cabin around her. You pulled her attention to the window. "Look, Daz, that's the Wild Area down there! Isn't it beautiful?"

        The Luxio tilted her head, her eyes wide with wonder, but quickly turned back to you with a furrowed brow. Suddenly, it hit you.

        "Oh, yeah, I guess I didn't really tell you, huh?" You smiled in embarrassment, scratching the back of your head. "We kinda sorta got kicked out of the house by mum because I may have said some not-so-nice things to her—but in my defense neither did she!—but long story short, now we can never go back sooooo... I took a train to Motostoke and now we're joining the Gym Challenge... Surprise?"

        The Luxio paused before slowly hooding her lids and tilting her brow in annoyance. You threw your hands up. "Listen, I'm sorry, okay? It all happened so fast! But hey, you're getting what you wanted, right? Must feel pretty good, huh? You excited to ruin some kids' dreams? Beat up everything that moves?"

        Dazzle huffed, shaking her head in exasperation as she leapt off the cot and stomped her way to the door. You watched as she jumped and wrapped her paws around the lever, popping the lock. The door creaked open from the sway of her weight and you couldn't help when your lower lip trembled in disbelief. When she padded out into the hallway, you shook yourself. "H-Hey, wait up!"

        You scrambled into the hallway just in time to see her slip into the neighboring car. It was only when you opened the door yourself did you recognize it as the bistro. Sucking in the tantalizing scent of breakfast, you spotted Dazzle making herself comfortable in one of the middle booths as a waiter hovered over her. You were quick to join them.

        "Is she yours?" The waiter gushed, his fingers already laced in the Luxio's mane. "Oh, she's just precious. Lookit those grumpy cheeks!"

        Before you could move his hand away, Dazzle lunged back and batted at the waiter's palm with unsheathed claws. The waiter yelped when she caught the tip of his finger. You gasped and grabbed the misbehaving Luxio, pulling her to your side of the booth with an apologetic smile. "Ah, sorry, she's not a fan of strangers!"

        Dazzle rumbled in your lap as if to prove your point. The waiter laughed in embarrassment, a blush dusting his cheeks. "Oh, of course, my apologies! Completely my fault... Ah, oh yes!" He slipped you a small laminated menu from the pocket of his black apron. "What can I get you two this morning?"

        There were only a handful of options, and you were quick to point to the one you wanted. "This breakfast tempura sounds good."

        Luxio sniffed and smacked another option on the menu. You narrowed your eyes at it: a honey porridge. "Daz, that's not going to fill you. We can share the tempura just fine." Dazzle smacked the menu a little harder this time. You rolled your eyes and handed it back to the waiter as he gave you a sympathetic smile. "Just the tempura, please."

        When the waiter went away, you glanced at the Luxio sulking in your lap.

        "You're being a brat." You flicked her ear. Dazzle glared up at you, and you couldn't help but chuckle. "You know, I think he was right. You do have grumpy cheeks."

        Dazzle let out a high-pitched whine and bounded off your lap to pout in the inner corner of the booth. Again, you rolled your eyes and scratched along her spine. She pushed her rump into your palm, and you knew she couldn't be too upset.

        When the waiter returned, you blinked at the small bowl of honey porridge he set on the table alongside your tempura. "I think there was a mixup-" you started, but the man was quick to cut you off.

        "That's on the house!" He spluttered, turning to Dazzle with a bow. She tilted her head at him suspiciously. "It's my 'sorry-for-petting-you-without-asking' special. Sorry, again."

        The both of you blinked at him, and Luxio leaned onto the table to sniff at the bowl. Suddenly, she licked her lips and shoved her face into porridge with a happy cry. You watched for a moment before bursting into laughter at the sight of her devouring the meal whole. When she lifted her head, honey dripped down those grumpy cheeks of hers just out of reach of her tongue. Smiling, you hooked a napkin and squished her face in it, wiping what you could out of her blue fur. You glanced at the waiter over your shoulder.

        "I think she forgives you."

        "Oh, I'm so relieved." The waiter drooped his shoulders, as if he had been carrying a heavy weight, before suddenly straightening again. "Um- enjoy your meal!"

        When the sleeper train finally pulled into Motostoke Station, you leapt onto the platform ready to put your practicality to good use.

        First, you tracked down the showers. There was a shop near the bathrooms you'd made a pitstop at to pick up some travel soap and a sponge. Inside, the shower consisted of a tiny white-tiled room with green-tiled floors, yellow overheads, and a door you promptly locked. You made quick work of stripping out of your clothes, stuffing them into a separate pouch of your bag to clean later, and turned to Dazzle who still had clumps of honey porridge stuck to her cheeks. "Right, let's get that gunk off you."

        You spent a considerable amount of time scrubbing the stubborn food out of her fur as she scrambled and protested in your arms. A staff member had even knocked on the door to make sure her cries weren't actually the sound of you being murdered, and you had apologized profusely when she gave you a disapproving look. When you were finished, you were much dirtier than you were before getting in the shower. Sighing, you washed yourself down as Dazzle sat in the opposite corner shaking and licking at the discomfort of her wet body. At least both of you were clean.

        Next, you stopped by a couple more of the shops in search of a tent—and any other supplies that might prove useful. You hadn't realized how desperately under-packed you were until you saw all of the other Trainers milling about carrying much more than you. Certainly they knew more than you about traveling, right? You asked around: some were more than happy to help you—pointing out stuff that'd helped them on journeys past—while others only rolled their eyes or clicked their tongues at your ignorance. Even some of their pokémon stuck their tongues out at you. You tried not to wince under their glares and moved on.

        In the end, you had much more in tow than what you arrived with. You sat cross-legged on one of the blue benches, squeezing a torch into your bulging bag alongside the pillow, towel, first aid kit, toothbrush-toothpaste set, and map you had also picked up. A tent, it seemed, you'd have to find elsewhere in the city and a Trainer had cleverly reminded you to get a sleeping bag with it if you didn't feel like getting poked by rocks through the thin fabric of the groundsheet. They'd also suggested getting a new bag at the local boutique on your way to Kabu's Gym.

        "Seriously, there's no such thing as too much room. You never know what you'll find out there." They'd stressed. You were inclined to believe them; they seemed very practical, after all.

        With a final push, you got the torch far enough down to zip your bag halfway shut. Dazzle jumped to her paws beside you, her patience wearing thin and her fur still lightly damp. You nodded at her. "Ready to go?"

        The Luxio scampered towards the exit and you followed close behind.

        The streets of Motostoke bustled with people and pokémon from all walks of life. You were taken aback by just how busy it was, hopping to avoid a Skwovet as it darted between your feet back to its Trainer on the walkway. You'd been here once or twice as a child and remembered it for being relatively somber compared to the wen of Wyndon. It had industrialized in recent years—apparent by the brick and concrete faces of the compact buildings, the smoke billowing from the chimneys of steel factories, and the pulleys and levers of ongoing construction. You supposed being the main location to register for the Gym Challenge made it quite the hotspot these days.

        You only took one step before a hand thrust itself into your face. You scrunched back, the gasp in your throat coming out as a gurgle.

        "Excuse me!" A young girl only a few years younger than you blocked your path. She cradled a book of flyers in one arm and offered one to you in another. You noticed the glint of a gold brooch in the shape of two 'F's hooked to her jacket. "Please take a moment to read about our cause! Your Luxio will thank you for it!"

        "Uh, sorry," you blinked, trying to sidestep her, but she matched your footwork, "I need to go, uh, register."

        "Oh, no need for that. Did you know pokémon don't even want to battle?" She leaned forward with a strained smile, shaking the flyer in her hand. "You can learn more about it in our informational flyer. It's free!"

        You grimaced. "Ah... I don't know-"

        "Do you like causing your Luxio pain?" She asked suddenly.

        "What?" You bristled. "Of course not!"

        "Neither do we. We love all pokémon and that's why we believe all battling should be outlawed on a federal level to end their pain and suffering!" The girl proclaimed. Her gaze turned from you to Dazzle as she knelt to the pokémon's height, her eyes wide and uncomfortably thoughtful. "Isn't that right, little Luxio?"

        Dazzle shrunk back under her intense stare and, quickly, you swept the Luxio into your arms, holding her away from the strange girl with growing uneasy. "Hey, back off, okay? I don't want trouble."

        "No trouble here, ma'am. Just trying to spread the word." She held out the flyer to you again. "What do you say? Interested?" 

        "Hey, bugger off, ya freak! She ain't interested!" A woman had pulled up beside you, her arms crossed and her face soured with disgust. You vaguely recognized her blonde heart-shaped ponytail, color-blocked bodysuit, and ripped white jeans, but you couldn't place from where. Before you had a chance to really think, she hooked your arm and maneuvered you towards the walkway. When the girl tried to stop you, the woman shouldered her out of the way with another piercing blue glare. The girl seemed to wince, mumbling under her breath, before retreating to the entrance of the train station.

        You turned to the woman. "Hey, thanks for—"

        "Eyes ahead, don't look at anyone, don't talk to anyone. If someone tries to talk to you, plow right through them, got it?" She instructed. You nodded, turning your gaze ahead. "Arceus, I hate those dodgy maggots and their bloody flyers. Bunch of good-for-nothin's! They've ruined this city."

        "Who are they?" You asked.

        "Haven't you seen the news?" She spat. "She's part of those bloody Freedom Fighter twits they keep talking about. They've stationed themselves all around the city harassin' folk. It's absurd!"

        "Oh..."

        Suddenly, she stopped and you nearly stumbled face-first onto the main road from the whiplash. She lifted her arm to keep you upright and you mumbled another "thank you" she didn't seem to acknowledge. You exchanged a look with Dazzle who seemed rather dumbfounded about this whole thing.

        "You're lucky I'm even helpin' you. Do you know who I am?" She turned to you and, before you could even open your mouth, she leaned forward and thrust her arms into the air. "I'm Bunnie—the Bunnie! Please say you know who I am."

        "I—"

        "Doesn't matter. Give me your phone." Bunnie held out her palm. With little else to do, you pressed your phone into her outstretched hand. She swept through it with quick, experienced fingers and you watched with your mouth agape as she did... something. When she returned it to you, you furrowed your brows seeing your Pokégram opened to an account you didn't recognize—and were now following. Your eyes bulged at the amount of followers she already had. "There, now you're part of the Fluffle Fam. I mean, you should've been this entire time, but bygones and whatever. Also, don't give your phone to random strangers; I could've stolen it. What're you, dumb in the head?"

        "I..." You paused, half expecting her to interrupt you. When she didn't, you weren't entirely sure what to say. "I, um... Thanks?"

        "Happy to help." She crossed her arms and, this time, she smiled at you. "Now, where you headin'? I can point you where you need to go."

        You thought a moment, your brain muddled by recent events... Oh, right!

        "I need to register still." You said. "Where's the Stadium at?"

        Suddenly, Bunnie's smile fell and she hesitated a heartbeat. "Wait, you serious?"

        You glanced around uncertainly. "... Yeah? Is there a problem with that?"

        "Well, mate, you see that lift down the street?" She pointed to a mechanical lift with a cartoonishly large crank and wheel over the heads of the crowd. You nodded. "Registration closes at noon. You got about five minutes to run to that lift, take it to the upper tier, and get to the Stadium. It's a straight shot there. Think you can make it?"

        Your jaw went slack and, before you knew it, your feet were carrying you down the main street. Throwing a wave to Bunnie over your shoulder, you heard a distant, "You're welcome!" before the throes of the crowd overtook her. You were only grateful she'd come around when she did. Skirting wide-eyed pedestrians, clearing pokémon underfoot, and stumbling over a loose brick or two, you tore down the street toward the lift. Suddenly, you saw a group of people gathering on the lift and the gate slowly closing. Panic constricted your chest. You didn't have time to wait for it to come back down!

        Pumping your legs harder and gripping Luxio tighter, you leaned forward and plowed through the crowd. In the back of your mind, you knew you'd feel bad about it later, but right now, you had to get to the lift at any cost. And you made it just in time, jumping the gate as it closed and the wheel turned. The floor came faster than you were prepared for and your knees buckled at the sudden impact. You toppled onto the steel floor with a gasp. Luxio sprawled out of your arms and rolled into one of the passenger's legs. Wincing, you pushed yourself up with your elbows and smiled nervously when the other passengers glared down at you.

        "Sorry." You mumbled. Scrambling to your feet, you brushed yourself off before leaning down and scooping Dazzle back into your arms. The little pokémon was also glaring at you. "I didn't mean to drop you, I swear."

        She scoffed.

        At the top of the lift, you made quick work of jumping the gate again, ignoring the passengers' cries of alarm. Spotting the Gym just ahead, your trainers slapped hard against the concrete as you bolted straight across the road without a second glance. The streets were surprisingly less congested than the lower tier and you nearly slammed into the door before you could open it. Once inside, you threw yourself at the front counter and heaved a handful of long, well-deserved breaths. Luxio slipped from your arms and onto the floor, pressing a sympathetic paw against your leg. The receptionist glanced down at you nervously. "Can I... help you?"

        "We," you gasped, "want to," gasp, "register for," gasp, "oh, Arceus, hold on..." You took another moment to collect yourself. Once you finally caught your breath, you tried again, "We want to register for the Gym Challenge... please."

        "Do you have an endorsement?"

        "Oh, right." You dropped your bag to the floor, groping around in the front pocket, before fishing out the crumpled paper with a flourish of your wrist. You handed it to the receptionist.

        He scrutinized it for a moment, and his brows pitched in surprise. "You were endorsed by the Champion? Why, the last time he endorsed anyone was five years ago!" Suddenly, he narrowed his eyes at you. "This isn't a forgery... Is it?"

        You laughed at first, but when he didn't join you, you fell silent and small. "N-No, sir."

        Neither of you spoke as he stared you down, his brow rising and his lip pursing almost comically and you scrunched further into yourself. Then, his face broke into a smile.

        "Nah, I'm just messin' with ya! Look at you, all Deerling in the headlights." He let out a might laugh, and you could only join half-heartedly at his heart attack of a joke. He continued, "Everything looks good to me. Let me just get you all signed up here and..." He tapped across a screen you couldn't see and, after a short while, he snapped his fingers. "Done! Now what number were we thinkin', sport?"

        Your head perked at the question. "Huh?"

        "Your number? For your uniform. Which one did you want?"

        "Oh." You hadn't thought about it. You shrugged your shoulders. "Uh, I don't know. Pick one for me?"

        He paused, rapping the counter with a pursed lip. "This number is meant to represent you... And you're asking me to pick it for you?"

        "Is that against the rules?"

        "No, but, ugh..." He sighed, scratching the back of his head. "Okay, well... How about... Number 007? Seven is considered one of the luckiest numbers in the world... Not that you need much luck if you're already endorsed by the Champion, I guess."

        "Huh." You thought a moment before glancing down at the Luxio at your feet. "What do you think, Dazzle? Are we the luckiest pair in the world?"

        The Luxio cried up at you happily, her eyes sparkling with gleeful determination. The receptionist nodded, "I'll take that as a yes. Welcome to the Gym Challenge, Challenger 007."

Chapter Text

Say No More - Fickle Friends

        You collapsed on your bed in the Budew Drop Inn, breathing a sigh of relief when the ache in your feet subsided. You had managed to track down the rest of your supplies and a new bag after registering, but it had taken a lot of maneuvering and backtracking in the snarls of an unfamiliar, teeming city, and you were glad to finally be in the silence of the inn. Luxio, too, seemed more than content to tangle herself within the blankets and fall asleep despite the early evening sun slicing the curtains. At this point, you were thinking about following her lead. You kicked your trainers into some unknown corner of the room and curled tighter into the duvet.

        You fluttered your eyes shut, thinking back on the events of the day.

        Some part of you had hoped to see Leon here. You weren't entirely sure why you thought this; maybe because it was the final day of registration, so obviously it held some kind of importance, right? You spent the day looking over your shoulder mostly, hoping to catch his face in the waves of the crowd. You desperately wanted to talk to him now that you'd put his letter to good use. Plus, you wanted to return the pokéball you still had sitting in the front pocket of your bag. To your disappointment, you only managed to see him on the front of some magazines as you were purchasing your new barrel bag.

        Instead, you saw Bunnie again outside the inn, surrounded by a handful of flashing cameras and squealing fans. She was giving some kind of interview or press conference to one of the Gym Challenges' many reporters. It appeared she had dolled up for the occasion, too, as she wore much more makeup and jewelry than she had when you'd first met her. Curiosity got the better of you. You shuffled between the fold of the small crowd to watch.

        "I am so, very grateful for all my adorin' fans' support." The woman fluttered her blonde lashes, flashing a practiced, pearly smile you were all too familiar with. "I joined the Gym Challenge because of you; I'm becomin' Champion because of you. So thank you, from the deepest part of my heart, for always stickin' by my side."

        And you thought you had narcissistic tendencies.

        "You guys are gonna carry me to the Championship match and beyond." Finally, she placed a hand on the heart cut out of her bodysuit, giving the camera a sweet, doe-eyed look that made you scrunch your nose. Recalling your earlier encounter, you guessed it shouldn't have surprised you how... conceited she came off as. She'd been a little pushy and assuming then, too. You guessed it had something to do with adding you to the thousands already following her Pokégram. Still, it left a bitter taste in your mouth and you quickly made yourself scarce. You had to check into your room, anyway.

        Turning over on the bed, you placed a hand on the lump Dazzle had made in the blankets. She mumbled, wiggling closer, and you pulled the white duvet over your head to greet her. The blue pokémon blinked back at you through the creamy dark, a soft purr rumbling her throat as she settled her head on your stomach. When she kneaded your side, a gentle pulse of electricity relaxed your sore muscles. You entwined your fingers in her mane. "Tomorrow's the day, little lady. You ready?"

        Dazzle growled happily and pushed her head into your palm. Smiling, you pulled her closer and shut your eyes once more.

        Tomorrow, you would take on the opening ceremony, then the Grass-type Gym Leader of Turffield, Milo.

        The opening ceremony was over much sooner than you anticipated, but you were grateful for it. The sooner you could head out, the better. Still, you were glad to get a look at your competition. Of course, you saw Bunnie—Challenger #103—waving and blowing kisses to the camera as it passed over her, and you recognized a handful of the other Challengers from the interviews you'd seen on the television only a week prior. You'd also gotten a look at the Gym Leaders. The lineup was the same as in previous years, but you were still surprised every time you saw Marnie and Bede in Piers' and Opal's places respectively. 

        They all looked strong. Admittedly, it left you feeling a little nervous—but not nervous enough to turn back now. Shouldering your barrel bag, you zipped up your jacket and looked down at Luxio. "Let's go."

        The two of you made a break from the inn towards the west side of Motostoke, smiling at the passersby that'd gathered to wish you luck, then onto Route 3. You slowed down, taking in the sight of the sprawling rocky path with a pinch of your brows. You'd never stepped out of the confines of Wedgehurst before, much less Motostoke. You probably should've studied your map a little better before you set out. Thankfully, you spotted a trio of Trainers walking further ahead and decided to follow them from a distance. They probably knew where they were going, right? Sure.

        Dazzle padded a little further ahead, gazing in awe at the rockface and tall grass and shadows of nearby pokémon. When a Rookidee hopped out of a patch of grass, the little Luxio sprang back in surprise and you chuckled. The two stared at each other a moment. Then, Dazzle let out an excited squeal and charged the little bird pokémon. It squawked in alarm and took flight just before the Luxio let loose a spray of electricity in the place it had once been. A spark landed on the little Rookidee's tail feather and it threw a barrage of protests over its shoulder at the both of you. Immediately, a shot of anxiety chilled your blood.

        "Daz!" You yelped, catching up to her. The Luxio looked up at you with her pelt bristled in excitement. "Daz, maybe don't do that, okay? We shouldn't bother pokémon that don't want to battle us."

        Dazzle looked back at you with an arched brow. After a moment, she huffed and stomped away into the tall grass. When you didn't hear any further commotion, you slipped a sigh of relief. Battling Trainers was one thing—their pokémon wanted to battle, and they had their Trainers to take care of them in the aftermath. They never ran away or feared you. Wild pokémon were another breed entirely. The thought of hurting one out in the field left you with a nauseous curdle of your stomach you swallowed down. It was too familiar... Too much of a reminder of why you'd stopped in the first place. Thankfully, Dazzle didn't seem intent on arguing with you today.

        At a bend in the path, you noticed a figure leaning over a stanchion overlooking the countryside below. You perked when you realized it was Bunnie. She inhaled deeply, seeming to relish in the cool country air tousling her hair and the tall grass underfoot. She seemed different when a camera wasn't pointed in her face; more authentic as she contemplated the sprawling grassland and distant mine with a smile. At the very least, she was a familiar face. Maybe she'd take pity on you and let you travel with her and her team until you got your bearings. Your hair caught in the breeze as you broke from the rockface to join her.

        "Hey, there!" You called with a wave.

        The woman startled a moment before tilting her head. "You look familiar... How do I know you?" Nope, still conceited. You glanced at Luxio in incredulity as she put a finger to her lips. Then, her eyes widened. "Ah, that's right, you're my newest fan! It's good to see ya again, Fluffle."

        You half-smiled. "Well, I don't know about fa—"

        Bunnie stepped forward, waving one hand as the other dipped into her jacket pocket. "Listen, the labels ain't important. What is important is that you're the first kid I've run into since the Challenge officially started. So how's about a battle then, Fluffle? You can't say no."

        She said that last bit with a playful wink as she retrieved three pokéballs from the depths of her pocket. She had three pokémon, huh? It was a good thing you stocked up on potions before you left. You shook your head with a smile. "Guess I don't have much of a choi—"

        "Binx, you're up!" The woman threw the ball into the air. A Purrloin materialized from the pokéball like a shadow, making a show of weaving between Bunnie's legs, before strutting onto the battlefield. It sat with its tail curled over its paws, tilting its head cockily at you and Dazzle.

        Guess you were doing this. You nodded to the Luxio at your feet. Immediately, Dazzle crept onto the battlefield with quick, certain footing, her belly fur brushing the ground and her claws digging into the dirt. Her tail shivered with a jolt of electric energy. Recalling your battle in Wedgehurst, you felt much more confident this time around.

        You called first, "Ice Fang!"

        "Fake Out!"

        Dazzle parted her jaws, her maw frosting over, but the Purrloin was faster. It shot forward and brought a hard paw down on the Luxio's head, stunning her before she had a chance to retaliate. It retreated just as quickly, and you felt a twinge of annoyance at the laughter that rattled its jaw. Luxio shook her head, her pelt bristling alongside you. Bunnie crossed her arms with a devious smile. Suddenly, it was very clear the two were the same; sharing a similar affinity for mischief Purrloins were known for. You took a breath. At least she wouldn't be able to use that move again.

        "Okay, Dazzle, try it again. Ice Fang!"

        "Fury Swipes, Binx!"

        The Purrloin was on Dazzle in a flash, slashing its claws across the Luxio's face and shoulders in quick succession. It'd only managed three swipes, however, before the Luxio lashed out with her icy fangs, sinking her jaws into the purple pokémon's paw and flipping it over her head to hit the ground hard. When Dazzle lunged again, the Purrloin yelped and slid between the Luxio's legs to recover some distance. It licked its injured paw in disdain, as if it'd just broken a nail, and you noticed Bunnie's smile falter for the faintest of heartbeats. You smirked.

        "Spark!"

        "Scratch!"

        The Purrloin seemed a little less eager to cover the distance this time. It slunk the edge of the battlefield, perhaps looking for an opening or a path of least resistance. Dazzle sensed her hesitation, too, and took the opportunity let loose an electric surge. It tried to dodge, but it only left its chest taking the brunt of the attack. Immediately, it flew back into Bunnie's legs, seizing from the lightning coursing its body. Bunnie and you grimaced as it writhed and convulsed from the yellow waves shuddering its body. Then, just like that, it collapsed to the ground, fainted.

        "Was that... a critical hit?!" Bunnie stammered, retrieving the pokémon with her jaw agape. You shrugged and she shook herself. "Guess you're not as soft as ya look. Okay, Nico, show this bird who's boss!"

        When the Galarian Ponyta stomped onto the field, you couldn't help but curl your lip in satisfaction. The match didn't last long. Despite the Ponyta's superior speed, it lacked the defenses to outlast two super-effective Bites from Dazzle. It fell unconscious with little more than a whinny, and Bunnie's attitude seemed to shift with it. Instead of the confidence she had exuded moments before, she rubbed her wrist insecurely as she threw her final team member onto the field. Immediately, you understood why.

        It was a little Feebas named Jericho floundering in the freshly tousled dirt of the battlefield. You pinched your brows in disbelief. "Really?"

        "Sh-Shut up and fight him! He can take you on just fine." Bunnie exclaimed. "Use Tackle, Jerri!"

        Jerri flopped a few inches in front of Dazzle and slapped his tail fin across her cheek. She blinked.

        "Dazzle..." You looked at the blue pokémon. The Luxio shot a Spark at the Feebas before he could flop some more, and the battle was over. You felt a twinge of disappointment; you'd thought battling three pokémon in succession would've been more of a challenge. Then again, you weren't sure if that Feebas counted. Hopefully, Milo would pose more of a threat. You kicked a stray pebble as Bunnie looked from you, to Luxio, and to her own fainted pokémon with wide eyes. Then, she threw her hands in the air in mock defeat.

        "Well, there goes my plan of beating Leon's record!" She jogged over to you, retrieving Feebas, and crossed her arms with a rekindled smile. "Guess I'll need to come up with my own schtick after all, huh?" 

        "Schtick?" You raised a brow. She nodded.

        "'Course! If I'm gonna be Champion, I gotta decide on my signature trait now. Everyone who's anyone knows that."

        "Ah..." You chuckled. "No wonder I didn't know."

        "Hey, don't worry about it, Fluffle." She placed an encouraging hand on your shoulder. "You beat me, didn't'cha? You're already one step closer!"

        It was strange. You'd almost expected Bunnie to be angry you'd beaten her so easily. She seemed arrogant enough to be a poor sport. Instead, she seemed to be praising you... in her own roundabout way. Bunnie was conceited, but you supposed you couldn't say it made her a bad person. She seemed quite the opposite, actually. Suddenly, she grabbed your hand and shook it wildly. You floundered much like Jerri in her grip.

        "Thanks for the battle. I couldn't ask for a better rival!" When you looked at her with a furrowed brow, she continued, "What's with the look? 'Course you're my rival, now, Fluffle. I can't take ya beatin' me lyin' down now, can I?"

        You snorted. "A proper rival would know the other's name."

        "I guess ya have a point. Spit it out, then." You told Bunnie your name, though, it seemed to go in one ear out the other as she nodded. "Well, Fluffle, I should be off. Turffield ain't far, but only if you're movin'. I'll see ya later!"

        "Wait!" Before she could run off, you grabbed her wrist. The woman looked back at you in surprise and you released her hand, scratching the back of your head. "Since you're here, do you think we could travel to Turffield together? I was following some Trainers before I saw you, but... Well, I'm... I'm not sure where I'm going..."

        She paused a moment before smirking. "What're you, Champion Leon?"

        You jolted as embarrassment muddled your cheeks. "What? N-no, I'm just—"

        "Sheltered? Yeah, I know the type. " You pursed your lips in disapproval, but between your pout and red face, it only seemed to encourage her. "Doin' that only proves my point, Fluffle. But alright, since ya beat me fair and square, I guess it's the least I can do. C'mon!"

        With Bunnie leading the charge, it took no time at all to arrive in the quaint farming town of Turffield... Minus the many detours dragging you into double battles with some unsuspecting Trainers. You were grateful for the extra experience—you'd lost more than you had won, and it had humbled your winning streak—but the itch to face Milo was prickling your spine now, and you'd broke away to find a Pokécenter as soon as you could. Bunnie hadn't paid much attention to your parting, distracted by an Eevee that'd tumbled out of a nearby field and right into her arms. You and Luxio had given it a sympathetic look when it tried to squirm away from her suffocating appraisal of its squishy cheeks. 

        Squishy cheeks aside, you healed up Luxio at the Pokécenter, saddling her with an oran berry for good luck, and made a beeline for the Stadium. Inside, the lobby was bustling with agitated Trainers waiting their turn, collecting in pockets of those animatedly anticipating their victory and others pacing the ground with growing apprehension. You weren't sure which side you were on yet, so you made quick work of signing up and changing into your uniform. In the locker room you took an extra moment to admire the stitching of your number 007 across the back of your shirt.

        Seven is considered one of the luckiest numbers in the world. The man's words echoed in your mind. At the time, it had been convenient to let him decide for you, and you had taken the number in jest. Whether you were lucky was anyone's guess. But now, being here after so long of wishing and being denied, you certainly felt like the luckiest person in the world. You'd be even luckier if you had the strength to beat Milo. After an hour of loitering in the lobby, your name was finally called. You'd decided by then you were on the side of anticipated victory. You exchanged a look of determination with Luxio as you entered the Gym Mission, confidence widening the swing of your hips

        Rounding up the Wooloo had been easy. Now, came what you'd been waiting for. You squared off at the pitch with Luxio's pokéball readily in hand. For a moment, you blinked at the roaring crowd around you. The opening ceremony had been packed, but not as wild as it was now. Your heart pounded in your chest as your confidence turned to excitement and you rubbed your hands in anticipation. Milo was soon to join you. He was a large man with curled ginger hair, sturdily built from years of laboring the land, but no less kind from it. He offered you a smile as the freckles peppering his cheeks scrunched beneath his eyes. 

        "Proper job with those Wooloo. You definitely know how to work your way around a pokémon, I'll give you that." You nodded to affirm you did, indeed, do a good job, and he tapped a finger to his chin. "You're the Trainer with the Luxio, right? We don't see much of those on the mainland. I look forward to seeing how you work your way around Gossifleur's and Eldegoss' electric resistances."

        You nodded again, and this time, the two of you turned your backs to one another, taking your respective ends of the battlefield. Milo sent Gossifleur out first and you, Luxio. Her pelt was fluffed and her tail whipped in satisfaction as she glanced at the cheering crowd around her. The Gossifleur, too, seemed to sway in excitement, its petals curling and unfurling as if blooming with each heartbeat. There was a sharp energy in the air that pounded your heart faster, and you realized it as exhilaration battling in front of thousands of people across the region. The thought wasn't as crippling as you thought it should be. Still, you took a readying breath as Milo called first.

        "Magical Leaf!"

        "Ice Fang!"

        Despite Gossifleur's small stature, Dazzle was faster. She lunged across the battle with a growl. Her ice-encrusted fangs shone brilliantly in the stadium lights as she sunk her maw into the little flower pokémon's torso. The Gossifleur cried in alarm as the Luxio pinned her to the ground and clenched her jaw harder. Around them, you saw an uptick in the wind as leaves sprouted from the green pokemon's body. The leaves jittered, fluttering aimlessly in that stumbling wind, as Gossifleur struggled in the Luxio's jaws. Dazzle growled low, raising her head, and letting the pokémon fall back to the pitch hard. It was then the wind, the leaves dropped and Gossifleur lay there unmoving. 

        "Good job, Daz!" You praised as Milo recalled the fainted pokémon. Dazzle bounded back to you with a smirk.

        "Ice Fang, huh?" Milo chuckled. "I should've known you had some kind of trick up your sleeve. Looks like I'll have to Dynamax Eldegoss if I'm gonna beat you!"

        Your smirk lasted only a heartbeat before you fully understood what Milo had said. You clenched your fist as the band on his wrist gleamed with a menacing red light. Then, you looked at your own bare wrist.

        "Shit!" You hissed under your breath. Dazzle looked up at you, her eyes widening in turn when she realized you didn't have a Dynamax band. When your gazes met, you chuckled nervously. "So, we may have a problem..."

        The Luxio scoffed and turned back to the battlefield once more. It was then the red light sprung to life from Milo's band and into the pokéball lying in wait in his palm. The light encapsulated it, and the pokéball grew larger and larger with each pulse of controlled Dynamax energy. When the ball became too large to hold, Milo sent it off with a smile and a loving pat, and it unleashed a giant of an Eldegoss smoldering with red light. It hovered in the air for a point before its newfound weight brought it crashing to the battlefield like a meteor. Debris sprayed in your eyes from the impact and rumbled the ground underfoot. You fought to stay standing.

        The next thing you knew, the pair of you were standing in the shadow of a Dynamaxed Eldegoss. You let out a shuddering breath at the sheer strength of it, utterly dwarfing you in size and mind as you tried to make sense of the creature before you. You'd never seen a Dynamaxed pokémon in person before. Hell, you'd hardly seen it on television! It was hard to imagine this Eldegoss was the same as the ones carried by Galar winds across the region; only a hurricane could take down something like that, but even then, you weren't totally convinced. Now, you and Luxio had to take it down. You shook yourself, determination alighting your gaze once more.

        "It's not over yet, Dazzle. We can still pull this off!" Luxio nodded, leaping forward again as you called, "Ice Fang!"

        "Max Strike!"

        Dazzle went over its leaves, sinking her frosted jaws into the green appendages with as much strength as she could muster. It seemed to work, as the Eldegoss flinched in pain. At the same moment, it easily flung her off with a wave of its wreath. Luxio went flying, barely able to land on her feet before the ground underfoot split. A powerful light blasted through the cracks. She scrambled away, but the tail end of the attack sent her flying once more. She crashed on her side, skidding to a halt a few paces in front of you, and let out a weak growl. You gasped and rushed to her side. The cheers of the audience swelled.

        "Dazzle, are you okay?" You exclaimed. The little blue pokémon groaned, refocusing her gaze as if she'd blacked out. You could tell the attack had taken a lot out of her—she still wasn't used to taking a hard hit. She glanced up at you, then to the stadium, then back to the Eldegoss lying in wait. She turned back to you and nodded, carefully pulling herself to her paws. She rolled the oran berry you'd give her out from between her toes and swallowed it whole, enough to give her the strength to shake the attack off. When she was standing, you gave her a reassuring pat and returned to your spot on the field.

        You had to go about this from a different angle. Milo couldn't stay Dynamaxed forever, you knew that for certain from your passing of the television. You could outlast him, but for how much longer? Another hit like that and Dazzle would be down for the count, and you didn't have any other pokémon at your disposal. You couldn't rely on her consistently dodging either; those attacks were all-encompassing. Protect would cover her, but there was always a chance of it failing—you supposed that was better than nothing. You'd just have to gamble your chances. Steeling yourself, you called out, "Time to put our luck to good use, Daz! Use Protect!"

        A shield materialized before the Luxio as the Eldegoss let loose a barrage of seed bombs. They borrowed into the earth around Dazzle, pulsating a soft green. A heartbeat later, they exploded into a whirlwind of towering green mushrooms and foliage that overtook the battlefield, slicing the shield and the tips of Dazzle's fur. You threw your arms over your own face as the unrelenting gale buffeted your eyes. When the winds died, you squinted at the Luxio before you. She heaved a heavy breath, but remained unharmed. 

        "Again, Dazzle!"

        To your relief, her shield didn't falter and, again, the Eldegoss released another Max Overgrowth. This time, your eyes watered from the utter hurricane of bladed leaves—some even piercing the exposed skin of your arms as you flung them over your face once more. You grimaced when you felt the pinprick of blood wet the shallow cuts. But, it seemed your plan had worked as, when you lowered your arms, Luxio was still standing and Milo smiled in approval. Behind him, the Eldegoss shuddered and shrunk. You gasped in delight when it returned to its original size with little more than a puff of cotton wisps.

        You'd stalled them out of their Dynamax! 

        From there, you traded blows until Eldegoss finally fell. Without its Dynamax, its attacks weren't as devastating, but it was much sturdier than it appeared. It took a handful of Ice Fangs and Bites to admit defeat, and some part of you wondered if it was pure spite that kept it standing so long. You guessed Milo wasn't joking when he'd claimed they were tough as weeds—stubborn as them, too. The crowds' cheers were still ringing in your ears. Breathing a well-deserved sigh, you knelt to embrace Luxio when she bounded into your arms. As you scratched behind her ears, you couldn't help but smirk, "I told you we'd pull through. You didn't believe me?"

        Dazzle ducked her head from your hands to glare at you instead. You chuckled, "But I guess it would've been easier if we were able to Dynamax, too, huh? I'll work on that."

        The little Luxio grunted in approval and Milo approached the both of you. You stood.

        "When the roots are deep, there's no reason to fear the wind. That's to say, the bond between you and your Luxio is something special; today, it gave you the strength to beat me even without Dynamaxing. Be proud." You couldn't help the grin plumping your cheeks. He extended his hand to you then and you took it. His grip was firm, but he shook your hand as gently as a blade of wheat sways in the wind. "As proof you have defeated a Gym Leader for the Gym Challenge, allow me to present you with your very own Grass Badge. You'll need to defeat the last seven Leaders and collect their Badges to win the Gym Challenge. I think you can do it."

        An equal surge of pride and embarrassment struck you at hearing his words and you received the gold-crested green badge with a blush. "That's some high praise coming from you... Thank you, Milo. I'll do my best."

        Outside the stadium, you shook the remaining verve from your limbs as Dazzle did the same beside you. Even after the battle, she still had a plethora of pent-up energy neither of you was sure what to do with—apparent by the way she charged the lobby once you were off the pitch and subsequently shot a sparks from her pelt with a shake. The cool mid-afternoon air seemed to calm her enough to finally let her fur lie flat. You looked down at her.

        "We still have plenty of time to reach Hulbury. How about we hit two Cramorants with one stone?" You asked. The Luxio nodded her head vigorously and darted towards the path leading to Route 5. You chuckled, fully intent on joining her, but stopped short when your name caught on the breeze behind you. You perked, your face breaking into a smile when you saw the man waving you down.

        "Leon?"

Chapter Text

enjoy the ride - almost monday

        "Leon, what are you doing here?" You gasped. The violet-haired man skidded to a halt in front of you, his Charizard lumbering behind him soon after. This time, he was in his sportswear and cape, the latter rippling like a Talonflame’s wings in the breeze rolling off the uphill wheat fields.

        "I wanted to catch you before you left." He said, cupping your shoulder with a friendly shake. "That was a brilliant battle, all-star. You didn’t even Dynamax!"

        “W-Well, I mean, I couldn’t even if I wanted to, but I got my first badge, so...” You cleared your throat, immediately flooding with self-consciousness at his praise. The man quirked a brow and you showed him your bare wrist, continuing, “I don’t have a Dynamax band.”

        “Huh…” An embarrassed smile breached his cheeks. “I must’ve forgotten it when I sent you your endorsement letter. Sorry about that.”

        “Oh, no, it’s fine, I’m not complaining! It wasn’t even that hard—not that I’m bragging, it was hard, but I mean, I managed!” You waved your hands wildly, red-faced with a smile that was just too wide for your cheeks. “I’m just grateful for the letter—thank you, by the way, I never would’ve done this without it—you’ve already done more than enough—oh, that just reminded me! Here.”

        You ignored the humor alighting his gaze. Instead, you plunged your hand into the depths of your bag, desperately groping between your toothbrush and torch before finally retrieving the pokéball that’d made its way to you so many weeks ago. You offered it to him. 

        “Hopefully you didn’t miss it too much.” You cringed, white-knuckling the ball unconsciously. “That didn’t sound as terrible in my head, you probably missed it a lot—I’m sorry.”

        “I’m a little confused.” He said, plucking the pokéball from your palm and flipping it over in his hand. “Why are you giving me this?”

        “It was in the package you sent me.” You replied. “I figured it was probably a mistake.”

        “Did you even check to see what was inside?”

        You pursed your lips. “Well, no… It’s not mine. It felt wrong just holding onto it for this long. I wanted to get it back to you as soon as possible, I really did, I just—”

        “I appreciate it, but,” Leon chuckled, handing the pokéball back to you, “I think you should find out who’s inside. You might like the answer.”

        "Like the answer, huh?" You furrowed your brows, but sent the mystery pokémon out anyway. A tiny fox-like figure materialized from the pokéball, launching herself into the air with a squeal of laughter. You stumbled when the ball of red fur shot between your legs towards Charizard, monopolizing the shade of the Stadium. He groaned and rolled onto his back as the little pokémon scrambled up his side and bounded happily atop his belly scales. When the Nickit finally noticed you, she wagged her tail wildly as if she were waving to a pair of old friends. Leon waved back.

        ‘Now, I’d probably lose to a Nickit.’ You jolted, recalling the words you’d muttered so bitterly only weeks ago. Leon had urged you to return to battling that night. Of course, you hadn't considered it until that strange man had turned up in Wedgehurst and battled you. He had used a Nickit, hadn’t he? It’d been just as frantic as the one clamoring all over Charizard now. You remembered you’d paralyzed it back then, too, but it’d eaten a berry to counter the effects. How had that Trainer known to give his partner a cheri berry of all things? It was almost as if… He’d known he was going to battle an electric-type pokémon. 

        Looks like you were able to beat a Nickit after all.

        You snapped back to Leon with large, disbelieving eyes and sucked in a hard breath, “No… Was that…?” You pointed at Leon and then the little Nickit sticking her snout into Charizard’s nostrils. “No.”

        “It sure was, all-star.”

        You froze, staring blankly at the man before you. At first, you let out a chuckle, hoping he might laugh along with you and say it was a joke. When he only nodded, you swallowed. The thought of battling Leon was surreal—especially considering how close you'd been to winning. The revelation was exciting, of course, but the anxiety dizzying your head didn't seem to agree. It was a strange catharsis soured only by the breakfast threatening to breach your stomach. Blinking back to your senses, you gripped your bag strap tighter to steady the nerves trembling your fingers. All the while, Leon looked back at you with an oddly smug sense of satisfaction.

        You chuckled awkwardly, twisting the strap in your hand. What did he even expect you to say? What could you possibly say to the region’s strongest Trainer you’d nearly usurped? An answer tumbled from your lips before you could think. “I… I guess I thought battling the Champion would’ve been harder…”

        Leon did something of a double take. Immediately, you slapped your hand over your mouth. “That came out wrong! I swear I’m not calling you weak, I just meant, well, how was I supposed to know that was you? You battled me with a Nickit of all things! It was hardly a fair fight. Luxio's nearly grown and Nickit still looks like a baby. The fact we ended in a draw is proof enough you're stronger than me!"

        The man shook himself, that satisfied smirk melting into something softer than before. Suddenly, the look in his eyes was much more contemplative as he started, "The point wasn't for you to win or lose against me… If you remember, I told you I want all of Galar to be strong—that includes you. I knew there was potential in you the moment we met. The battle at Wedgehurt only solidified that. But I actually hadn’t planned to endorse you back then; I only wanted to remind you of your own strength. You gave me a battle worth remembering. That means something to me.” It was then he leaned closer as his smirk returned tenfold. "But if that's how you really feel, then I guess I'll just have to give you the battle of a lifetime at the Championship match."

        You choked, the red of your face ripening as you spluttered, “Wow, I, um... Thanks for the vote of confidence, champ. Hopefully, I don't muck it up as badly as I did this conversation.”

        He chuckled and, for some odd reason, you were pleasantly surprised to hear it again. He had one of those laughs you found contagious—or maybe it was just the pretty way his face lit up in the sun as opposed to the dark cover of night and firelight—and you chuckled along between clearing your throat. At the very least, it melted the tension you hadn't realized had built in your shoulders. When he quieted, he turned to the Nickit once more. She'd abandoned Charizard to bite at a wisp of cotton on the breeze instead. "Princess, come here."

        The Nickit perked immediately and bounded over to the two of you. You quirked a brow as she jumped into Leon's arms. "Princess?"

        "She, uh... I called her that once and now she won't come by any other name." Suddenly, he held the red pokémon out to you. "Maybe you'll have more luck than me."

        "Huh?" You blinked at him.

        "Do you still think I sent her to you by accident? You need teammates if you plan to win the Gym Challenge, and Princess here needs a Trainer with the patience to keep her in line." He stepped closer, and the Nickit leaned forward in Leon's grasp to lick at your nose. You giggled at the tickle of her tongue. "Look at that. She likes you already."

        "Something tells me she likes everyone." Carefully, you cradled Princess in your arms. She gazed up at you with droopy amber eyes that melted your heart as she snuggled closer, and fluttered her eyelashes. You had to admit, she was ridiculously cute. You'd be a monster to turn her away now. "I... I don't know what to say. Thank you, Leon... I'll take good care of her."

        "I'm counting on it."

        It was then you felt another small body barrel into the back of your knee. Yelping, Leon caught your arm before you could eat dirt and you used his chest as leverage to glare down at whatever had tripped you. Dazzle snorted at your feet, stomped, and narrowed her eyes at the Nickit curling comfortably in your arms. Her outburst might've been endearing if it hadn't come at the cost of your nearly falling. Immediately, you knew you were in for a world of trouble. You rolled your eyes.

        "I see you, Dazzle, you don't need to blow my knees out. We'll leave soon." Quietly, you glanced at Leon. "I told you she was the jealous type."

        "Didn't mean to get you in trouble." The man helped you stand and you shook your head.

        "You don't even know." You chuckled and ignored the yowls of protest the Luxio slung at you. "I'll never hear the end of it now."

        "Speaking of that..." The man flinched as if suddenly remembering something, and scratched the back of his head. "Can you tell your folks I said I'm sorry? I got an earful from your mum the other day about endorsing you. I didn't realize battling was that much of a sore spot for them."

        Your shoulders slumped as a pit of dread muddied your stomach. Your parents were the last thing you wanted to hear about today. You could only imagine the things your mother had said to him—most of them terrible—and you hoped to Arceus it wasn't what you were fearing. "What did she say?"

        "Well... let's just say I'm on their company's blacklist until further notice." Leon glanced at you and, noticing the anxiety rippling your blow, quickly added, "It wasn't too bad. Trust me, I've heard way worse."

        You felt guilty at the sense of relief washing through you. At least your mother had the sense enough to keep her mouth shut when it counted, even when she was furious with you. Though you had an inkling it was less for your benefit, and more to keep face. You were grateful either way. You offered the man an apologetic smile. "Sorry about them. I didn't really leave on good terms, so it's kinda my fault, too."

        "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to drive a wedge." The man's voice lowered guiltily. "Family's important."

        "No, don't worry about it." You waved your hand. "I think... I needed this. I wasn't happy back there. Besides, once I win, I'm sure they'll come around."

        You winked at that last bit, but it didn't seem to lift Leon's spirit as much as you'd like. You thought to reassure him, but he opened his mouth to speak first, "Well—"

        "Champion Leon, sir!"

        Suddenly, a League Staff member lunged between the two of you, desperation jostling his feet as he fixed Leon with a panicked look. He went to speak, but stopped short when he noticed you. He opted to whisper behind his hand instead and your lips pulled with a frown. You watched Leon's expression shift to that of alarm, then resolve. He nodded at the League Staff member—who cast you another nervous glance—then turned back to you with a narrowed brow. Another blow of anxiety battered your stomach.

        "I need to go, but you should make your way to Hulbury." He cupped your shoulder again and grinned. "Good luck with Nessa. She's a tidal wave of a woman."

        When he strode away, you followed. "W-wait, is everything okay?" 

        "It will be." Charizard waited for Leon in the shadow of the Stadium, hunched to allow the man to mount his back easily. "Don't worry about it, all-star. Just go get that Water Badge. Princess... go easy on her, okay?"

        The Nickit in your arms squealed, nodding vigorously as she waved her tail at the duo. Charizard seemed to grunt a goodbye of his own to the little red pokémon and Leon nodded. You opened your mouth to offer your own farewell a moment too late. The dragon-like pokémon took to the sky in a flurry of blue wings and fire, and you crouched to avoid the high winds threatening to knock you over. You blinked at their fading forms until they disappeared in the veil of the cloud cover and slowly stood again. 

        "Good luck." You murmured. You knew he didn't need it—Leon was the Champion after all. Still, you wished your words hadn't fallen on deaf ears. 

        After a moment, Nickit scrambled from your arms and dropped to the ground with a thud. You gasped, but the pokémon merely shook herself, leapt to her paws, and pelted over to Luxio who'd taken to pouting beside the stanchion. She tackled the blue pokémon headfirst and Dazzle cried in alarm. They tumbled into the grass, a confusion of tangled limbs and growls. When Dazzle finally broke away, she bristled and smacked Princess' snout hard. The Nickit, unfazed, bunched her muscles to pounce again. You watched, sighed, and rubbed your temples when Dazzle let out another splitting cry.

        Maybe you were the one who needed good luck, instead.

        You'd never realized how grateful you were for Dazzle's modest nature until now.

        Heaving a heavy sigh, you rubbed your face in frustration. The journey to Hulbury shouldn't have been a long one—it was only a stone's throw away compared to other towns. At most, it was a half-hour trek, an hour if the weather was bad or you took the scenic route. This is not what happened; that half-hour had quickly devolved into two hours of nonsense, bickering, and refereeing you weren't prepared for. You hadn't accounted for the new member on your team being so poorly trained. Leon hadn't been kidding when he said she needed a firm hand. Dazzle was behaving no better. Between subduing the Luxio's fits of jealousy and Princess' inclination for troublemaking, you weren't sure who was worse.

        You were growing pretty sick of it, too.

        "Can you two just behave? Knock it off!" You growled, glaring at the two as they grappled with one another under your feet. "Princess, quit nipping Dazzle's feet. Dazzle, don't hit her!"

        You stumbled when Princess shot between your legs and Dazzle gave chase. You clenched your jaw. It didn't help a Freedom Fighter with a flyer took the opportunity to harass you at that very moment. You made a point to rip the flyer in their face and stamp it into the ground, much to their abject horror. You weren't in the mood to humor their "charity work" right now; you just wanted them to leave you alone. And you definitely could've done without the name-calling that'd ensued soon after.

        At some point during the journey, Princess dove into the underbrush and you couldn't help the relief washing over you in the subsequent silence. That is until Dazzle decided now was the best time to yell at you in yet another fit of jealousy.

        "I didn't even do anything!" You exclaimed. The Luxio was having none of it. Although you didn't remember, apparently you had committed the grievous offense of petting Nickit before her, and you needed to be reprimanded proper. Dazzle's cries became a distant drone in your ears as you retreated to the solace of your mind. At least you only had yourself to deal with here. You were too tired to even try to think, so you sunk into the white noise of your headspace. Of course, that peace wouldn't last long either. 

        Princess tumbled out of the woods looking much different than when she went in. It took you a moment to realize she'd evolved into a Thievul in the short time she'd been away. But that wasn't why you were gaping at her now. 

        "Princess... What's that in your mouth?" You asked cautiously. You squinted at the silver thing glinting between her jaws and gasped when it twitched. "Princess! What is it? Drop that right now!"

        You spent a stupid amount of time chasing the Thievul down. She was keen on keeping her catch away from you at all costs, coming close to swallowing it whole one too many times before you interfered. Whatever it was, she had no intention of sharing. Dazzle offered little help, opting to loudly complain each time the pair of you ran past instead of blocking her path or chasing the Thievul down herself. When you finally caught Princess, you wrenched the silver thing from her mouth and held it high to keep it out of her reach. Your eyes bulged. 

        "A Wishiwashi?" You gasped. "You were going to eat a Wishiwashi?! You can't just eat wild pokémon, Princess! If you're hungry, just tell me! I have food!"

        Your words went through one large ear and out the other. The Thievul barked, leaning back on her haunches to launch herself upward. It would have been easier to avoid her when she was still small—her evolved form was double her size and much stronger. Thinking fast, you spotted a dock pouring into the ocean ahead and made a break for it. She gave chase, trampling your feet as she bit at the air a few centimeters from your hand. When you were only a few meters away from the dock, you arched your arm and launched the Wishiwashi as far as you could. Much to your relief, it landed in the water not far from the shore. You and Dazzle watched it swim away as the Thievul scrambled to catch up in vain. She retreated when the waves splashed against her chest.

        On land, she shook herself, droplets springing from her pelt onto Dazzle's fur and your jacket instead. Dazzle spat, making quick work to lick off the water clinging to her chest. You didn't even complain. You merely looked down at the wet stains on your jacket in defeat. At least you were finally in Hulbury. You glanced at the sprawling seaport behind you with a sigh. The head of the Stadium peered at you from atop the crest of the town, haloed by curious evening sunlight. You'd planned to battle Nessa today. Now, all you wanted to do was lay on the dock and pass out until morning. Maybe it'd be like sleeping on a water bed—not that you've ever slept on a water bed before... You imagined they'd be awfully jiggly, though. Maybe that was the point?

        You shook your head. No, you weren't going to sleep on the docks. The day was still young enough and why would you even sleep on the dock when you had a perfectly good tent? You absolutely were, however, going to grab a bite to eat. Thievul had made it abundantly clear she was hungry, and neither you nor Dazzle had eaten since morning. Regardless of whether you were facing Nessa tonight, you needed to rest and recharge. And what better way to do that than with some of the finest seafood in town? You licked your lips, spotting The Captain's Table up the street. Your parents had talked about Hulbury's renowned restaurant plenty of times before and, if they were good for anything, it was the taste of quality cuisine. A decadent scent touched your nose and you drooled before you could stop yourself.

        Oh yeah, you were definitely eating everything on the menu.

        "Alright, girls, let's eat, then we'll figure out the plan." You looked to the two who were, thankfully, sitting calmly beside you for the first time since you left Turffield. "Sound good?"

        Princess yipped. Dazzle grunted, though, her ears perked at the prospect of food.

        Inside, the restaurant was quiet despite its plethora of patrons. Light music and the polite clank of silverware imbued the space, with the occasional bell of laughter and whispers of merriment. The walls and décor were splashed a gentle oran-blue, soothing the exhaustion fogging your mind. Beside you, a handful of people sat impatiently in a small waiting area, casting you unimpressed glances. The hostess before you was flanked by a male Indeedee, and the two narrowed their eyes at you and your dripping pokémon. You folded your hands on the counter. "Table for three, please."

        "Do you have a reservation?" The hostess frowned at your hands, still wet with Wishiwashi's slime. You quirked a brow.

        "Do I need a reservation?"

        "No." She said simply. She gestured to the group of people beside you. "But all our tables are full. You'll either need a reservation, or you'll need to wait."

        "How long's the wait?" You sighed. 

        "Two hours."

        You choked on your spit. "Two hours?!"

        "Hm, yes."

        You looked down at Princess and Dazzle, drooling and sniffing the air, and gave them an apologetic smile. "Sorry, girls, not tonight. It's a good thing I picked up those sausage links from Motostoke before we left. We'll set up camp and have that, okay?"

        Before you could turn out of the restaurant, a familiar voice met your ears. "Fluffle? I thought I recognized your voice. Just can't get enough of me, huh? Oi, waiter, she's with me!"

        You looked up, spotting Bunnie leaning over the balcony of the raised platform and gesturing for you to come up. You glanced at the hostess and she huffed, "Go on, then."

        Sharing an excited smile with your team, you bounded up the steps and joined Bunnie in her corner booth. Binx, Nico, and her newly acquired Eevee sat beside her, greeting you as you and your team squeezed in together in the opposite seat. Jerri was noticeably missing. You quipped, "You're short a head."

        "Huh? Oh." She nodded her head wisely. "Yeah, 'les you wanna traumatize 'em, I don't suggest bringin' your Water-types here. Might give 'em the wrong idea."

        "To be fair, they don't serve actual pokémon."

        "Looks real enough to me." She handed you her menu and you thumbed through it as Luxio and Thievul looked over your shoulder. "Ya know, you're lucky—I just got here. Most people can't be arsed, but ya really should make a reservation here 'les you wanna piss around all night waitin'. Hey, why's it look like you guys took a swim before you got here?"

        "Because we might as well have." You sighed. "I seem to get pretty lucky every time you're around, huh?"

        "Well, ya know what they say about Buneary feet. Bunnie's close enough, dontcha think?"

        You chuckled, "Sure, close enough."

        Bunnie made for good company. She introduced you to her new Eevee, a quiet dusty lad she'd named Renuk, and enthused about her plans to evolve him into a Leafeon when she found a Leaf Stone. She'd cooed over Princess, too, enamored by her naughtiness in a way you couldn't quite understand. She talked about her victory against Milo, run-ins with fans and reporters alike, and her trek to Hulbury. She'd particularly liked the small market near the mines and showed you the incense she'd snatched for a bargain. Might as well've stolen 'em and saved the trouble, she'd said. When she asked about your journey so far, she offered you her sympathy over Dazzle and Princess' rivalry. She'd had similar troubles with Binx and Nico at first, but the two got along just fine now. She reassured you it'd get better with time.

        "Look, they're even eatin' together." Bunnie nodded at Luxio and Thievul, scarfing down their own portions of seafood donburi beside you. "I had'ta separate Binx and Nico at the beginnin' or they'd steal each other's food, the rotten prats."

        "That's a relief." You muttered. "I don't know if I could handle playing referee every time we had to eat."

        "It's progress." Bunnie rolled her wrist nonchalantly. Suddenly, the woman pulled out her Rotom phone and beamed at you. "Say, mind if I snap a pic? The Fluffle Fam would love seein' these cuties chowin' away, and ya don't look so bad yourself. I can squeeze ya in my timeline no problem."

        The question was so innocently impolite and demanding, and yet, so well-intentioned, you couldn't help the bout of sarcasm coating your tongue. You smiled behind your sashimi and quirked a humored brow at her. "I don't know. Are you sure I'm really 'Bunnie' material?"

        "Course ya are, mate." She rolled her eyes. "I don't just post anybody to my Pokégram, ya know. You just happen to check all the boxes."

        "Ah, that's good, but... I'm still not sure." You did your best to stifle the smirk breaching your cheeks. "I don't know if I want Dazzle's and Princess' faces plastered all over the internet."

        "Huh? You're actin' like I'm takin' their mugshot or somethin'!" Bunnie exclaimed. She crossed her arms. "You messin' with me, bird?"

        "Never." You chuckled finally and the woman scoffed, bringing her phone to eye level once more.

        "I'm takin' the bloody picture." She spat. "Lookit you, chuffed to bits, havin' a laugh at my expense—oh, that's a good angle, do that again."

        After some time of what you could only describe as an impromptu photoshoot, Bunnie finally settled back into her booth. Her noodles sat chilled in front of her, but she didn't seem to mind as she tapped away on her phone. A satisfied smile plumped her cheeks at whatever she was doing. She glanced up at you. "What's your handle?'

        "My handle?" You asked. "Oh, yeah, I don't really remember. I don't use Pokégram a lot."

        "Ugh, useless. Hand me your phone." When you didn't move, she frowned. "Don't worry, I ain't a stranger. I won't steal it."

        "Just had to be sure." You smirked and slipped the device from your pocket into her palm. "Didn't want to be called dumb in the head again."

        Bunnie clicked her tongue before turning her attention to your screen. After a moment, she nodded and handed your phone back to you. You noticed instead of Pokégram, she'd left your contacts open. The pixels of her name blinked back at you, star emoji attached, and you tilted your head. "What's this?"

        "Since we're mates now, I figured ya could have my number." Bunnie smiled before narrowing her eyes. "Don't give it out or I'll make good on beating you myself."

        "Yes, boss." You chuckled. Beside you, Dazzle and Princess lulled in the seat, their plates licked clean and their stomachs noticeably heavier. Binx, Nico, and Renuk were in a similar state on the other end of the table. Bunnie still hadn't touched hers—most likely because she was dealing with her phone pinging with each passing second. You shook your head in amusement. "Well, that's enough of you for one night. I'm gonna pick up my tab and head out."

        "Sounds good, Fluffle." Bunnie didn't look up from her screen, nor did she seem to notice your mild slight. "Hey, if you battle Nessa tonight, soften her up a 'lil for me, won't'cha? Not that I can't take her on myself, 'course, but I ain't gonna complain about easy pickin's neither, ya know? Thanks."

        You didn't respond; it was obvious she'd checked out again the moment she closed her mouth, maybe assuming you'd already agreed. Instead, you turned to Luxio and Thievul. Food had been the exact remedy to the weariness dragging your limbs and now, you were in a much better headspace to consider tackling the second Gym—as long as the others were on the same page. "Well you two, what do we think? Ready to take on Nessa tonight?"

        Whatever remained of their food coma dissipated immediately as Princess slammed her paws on the table with a yip and Dazzle scrambled out of the booth as fast as she could. You were quick to leave your share of the bill on the table before being herded out by your team. Bunnie sent you off with a half-hearted wave while her team cried their own farewells. The hostess glared at the rowdy lot of you.

        The Hulbury Stadium gleamed in the mounting moonlight as the sun dipped lower beneath the waves. Ocean spray hit your nose, then the bite of the wind rolling off the waves, and you found it invigorated you much more than the food settling in your stomach. Taking a breath, you nodded at Thievul and Luxio who nodded back with determined glints of their eyes. You knew you'd have to defeat Nessa without a Dynamax band again, but, this time would be different. Now with a plan and an extra teammate, confidence carried your head high as you strode into the Stadium. It was time to get your second Gym badge.

Chapter Text

Running in the Night - FM-84 & Ollie Wride

        Nessa stood there, her arms crossed and eyes stern as she waited for you to approach. You glared back, a trembling mess of cold water, soaked clothes, and the determination to win. You mounted the pitch and swept the hairs sticking to your cheek with an irritated flick of your hand.

        "Welcome, Gym Challenger 007." Nessa nodded. "I see you've become well-acquainted with my Gym mission."

        "You think?" You spat, throwing your arms out as water dribbled onto the blue laminate. She smiled in approval.

        "And yet you cleared it. Just as a skilled sailor is never made by a smooth sea, your skills as a Trainer can only be defined by the challenges you face." She tilted her head. "Do you understand?"

        "Yeah, sure, I got it." You rolled your wrist, more water splattering across the pitch. "Can we just get this over with so I can change, please?"

        "Good. Let's begin, then."

        Nessa flipped her hair, an ocean wave falling over her shoulder, and strutted to the opposite end of the field. You retreated to your own end and slipped Dazzle's pokéball from your pocket. Nessa was a Water-type Gym Leader; Luxio's Electic-typing was the perfect answer. She could dish out enough power to knock out most of Nessa's team in one blow while only taking minimal damage in return. Thievul's support would only make it easier. It was her ace you were truly worried about. You weren't unfamiliar with her Drednaw. You'd heard it mentioned in interviews and passing conversations described as a monster of a pokémon, able to wipe entire teams with its brutal strength. This isn't what scared you though. You glanced at your bare wrist nervously. 

        Two hits from Dynamax Drednaw, and it was over.

        You tightened your grip on Luxio's pokéball. A hit for Luxio and one for Thievul. You only had to outlast its Dynamax just as you had with Eldegoss. You could do it.

        Nessa threw out her Goldeen. It twirled in midair, its long fins rippling like sun-stained whitewater. It didn't seem to think one way or the other about the coming battle as it regarded you from across the field. Luxio's entrance was much less elegant, releasing a guttural roar as she ripped from her pokéball and dropped low with an electric flick of her tail. Seeing the Goldeen before her, she bared her teeth in a smirk. She knew just as well as you the pair of you had the upper hand for now. Nessa's crossed arms and the Goldeen's hooded gaze didn't falter. You called a Spark and Nessa an Agility. 

        The Goldeen avoided Dazzle's first attack with a quick twist of its body. With its doubled speed, it managed to spear Luxio with a Horn Drill to the flank before another Spark electrified its body. The attack was enough to slow it, but it did not fall. After a final exchange of blows, it succumbed to a Bite, flailing helplessly in Luxio's jaws. Nessa lowered her chin when Goldeen fell, but said nothing. Next was Arrokuda. It overtook the battlefield with much more vigor, speeding a lap around Nessa before thrusting its head into Dazzle's with a challenging narrow of its eyes. The blue pokémon pulled her lip back lightning rippled her bristling spine. 

        The Arrokuda struck with a Whirlpool. A vortex ensnared the Luxio, slashing her body with rapid lashes of water she tried to duck, but only managed to get a whip to the eye. Immediately, you knew it would pose a problem. You hadn't accounted for a long-lasting move like that. But there was nothing you could do now. With a twitch of your eye, you called another Spark. Unlike Goldeen, the volley of electric shots hit the Arrokuda hard. It trembled, yellow flicks alighting its body, and fought against the oncoming dark. Despite its best efforts, it fainted only a moment later. You smiled victoriously, but a surge of anxiety quelled your early triumph. There was still one more pokémon to face.

        "Time to turn the tide." Nessa's eyes flashed with determination. "Get ready to be swept away."

        You were definitely feeling your nerves now. 

        You sucked in a breath when the woman set loose her Dynamaxed Drednaw, its landing shuddering the ground with an earthquake. Its roar enough could collapse the Stadium if it weren't so enforced to contain this colossal power. The thought alone set you on edge as you looked down at your tiny Luxio. You knew she had done this before. You knew it was possible. But seeing her so dwarfed by Drednaw's might, caught in the vortex of Arrokuda's parting gift, clammed your hands. It wasn't safe enough to risk an attack and leave her vulnerable in Nessa's wake. You called first, "Protect!"

        "Max Geyser!"

        Luxio summoned a shield at the same moment a torpedo of water swelled from the depths of Drednaw's throat. It surged across the battlefield, a spiraling jet of hot liquid and steam, and blasted the broadside of Dazzle's shield. You watched as the blue pokémon stumbled against the torrent, smashing her side into the shield to avoid the worst of the overflowing tide and digging her claws into the wet floor to steady herself. Pelt sodden from the attack and wincing from the subsequent scores from the Whirlpool, the Luxio's back legs crumbled. She grimaced with effort. Overhead, rain began to pelt the battlefield. One down, just two more to go.

        "Protect again, Daz!"

        "Max Darkness!"

        Shadows serpentined from the recesses of the field, whorling around the Drednaw in a dark eddy as they gathered larger and larger. Then, with a thrust of its large head, the vortex burst, striking like the snap of a Seviper at the Luxio. In the same moment, Dazzle's footing slipped across the slick laminate and you watched with wide eyes as she fell, her shield shattering with a glimmer of blue light. You gasped, calling for her as the shadows overtook her trembling form. Time seemed to slow as the darkness encapsulated her, creeping ever larger. You held your breath and searched the reeling murk for Luxio's silhouette. Finally, the black vortex exploded, the shadows receding into the corners of the Stadium with a whisper of wind.

        Dazzle lay in its wake, unmoving. Shock overtook you as you waited for her to pull herself to her paws. A moment passed, then another, as Luxio's pelt was battered by the rain overhead. You called to her again, but she didn't move, and you found the sight much more frightening than you should have. You had only seen Dazzle fainted a few times before, but it had never been as intense as now. The only thing that soothed the fear overtaking your mind was the soft rise and fall of her side, dark with rainwater and grit. Finally, you clenched your jaw and quickly retrieved her. You'd be able to heal her later—after you figured out what to do without her.

        This was the worst thing that could have happened. You knew you shouldn't have relied on Protect to carry you through the Dynamax—the fact it had worked out last time was pure luck. You had gambled your chances and lost. Now, you had to keep Princess from losing the draw, too. You knew she was hardier than she appeared, but a Dynamax pokémon was an entirely different breed of battle, and she was as undisciplined as she was quick on her feet. Worst of all, there was nothing to protect her from the brunt of an attack. Could she really survive a hit from Drednaw? You grasped her pokéball and sucked in a breath. You were about to find out.

        "Good job, Dazzle." You murmured. "It's your turn now, Princess. Go!"

        Thievul claimed the field, growling as she bristled her pelt against the subsiding rain. Anticipation shuddered her paws. She scrutinized the supersized Drednaw and pulled her lip back in a smirk, her eyes narrowing with intent. Then, she shot forward with steadfast abandon. Jolting, you called a command before you could think, "Quick Attack!"

        "Let's end this, Drednaw," Nessa shouted. "Max Strike!"

        The Stadium rumbled underfoot as Thievul gained on Nessa's Drednaw. You watched as the ground split beneath her, Princess skipping the rifts with sure-footed steps that kept her upright. She curled her tail beneath her just as light burst from the fissure, centimeters from blazing her rump, and dodged the attack. You blinked in surprise, a smile breaching your cheeks as she pelted forward. Unharmed, she bent just paces from the Drednaw and leapt, sinking her claws into its leg. She tore the rough skin with quick, aimed strikes you're sure would be devastating if it weren't Dynamaxed. The Drednaw bellowed, lifting its leg to shake her off, but she'd already retreated. She didn't return to her side of the field, however. Instead, she held her ground as the Drednaw shrunk back to its normal size. You sighed in relief, but it wouldn't last.

        Again, the Thievul lunged without your command, certainty setting her pace. Was she anticipating your next move, or merely acting of her own accord? You weren't sure, but Princess was nearly on top of Nessa's Drednaw now. Heart lurching in your chest, you called the first attack to come to mind, "Snarl!"

        "Razor Shell!"

        Thievul skidded to a halt at your words, bracing herself against the whiplash as a guttural sound rattled her jaw. She released a low snarl from deep within, an aftershock that shuddered the Drednaw to its core, and left it grimacing from the impact. Bellowing, the Drednaw charged forward, water blading the tusk crowning its forehead. It sliced at Thievul and she retreated—dancing toe to toe with its own lumbering steps—before the Drednaw reared its head and brought the blade down hard on her skull. Princess reeled back with a yelp. Immediately, you noticed the way her back legs trembled just as Dazzle's had done before. The attack had hit hard, but the Thievul leapt away with little more than a parting show of her teeth at the Drednaw.

        With ample ground to spare, the Princess turned on Drednaw once more, but this time, you were ready. She flanked the large pokémon as you called a Snarl. Again, the Thievul let loose a rumbling bark at your words, but Drednaw seemed just as prepared as you. Mid-attack, the Drednaw rushed the Thievul, lowering its head to ram its tusk into her chest. Princess toppled to the ground from the impact, dazed, but still managing to roll away just as the Drednaw bared on her again. The Headbutt left her staggering to her paws and she scrambled away heaving labored breaths. Tilting her head, she found you through narrowed eyes and slipped back to you. You frowned at the way she curled her lip in concentration. The Drednaw bellowed after her, scoring its clawed feet across the laminate. 

        Wearily, Thievul paced as she pinned her ears in your direction, and you wondered why she wasn't taking the lead as she was before. Had the attack hit her harder than you initially thought? Was she trying not to faint? You called to her, but she only swept her tail in response. You furrowed your brow. What was she waiting for? She glanced back at you, shifting her paws in uncertainty. She yipped softly, then nodded as if to affirm whatever she was trying to communicate. Anxiety marked her gaze. Blinking, you realized a heartbeat later she was finally awaiting your command. Drednaw's ruthless attacks had wavered her confidence enough to paralyze her of her own accord—but it hadn't yours. Princess was brash, undisciplined, and fast—fast enough to outpace the Drednaw if she only listened to you now. You took a step forward.

        "Princess, you're leaving yourself vulnerable getting so close. Remember, you're faster than Drednaw!" You smiled in determination, spearing your finger at Nessa's Drednaw. "Snarl, one more time!"

        "Finish it, Drednaw" Nessa growled. "Use Headbutt!"

        Princess didn't move at first. Drednaw roared, rearing its head as it stormed headfirst at the Thievul. Anxiety pricked your mind as she stared the pokémon down, lifting her paw, before setting it back to the ground. At first, you thought it was indecision. It was only when you noticed her flank muscles bunching, then relaxing—a subtle movement apparent only by the way her fur rippled ever so gently—did you piece it together yourself. She was waiting, but this time, it wasn't from uncertainty; she was preparing. You counted the seconds as the Drednaw closed the distance. It was an unstoppable force, a momentum even it couldn't control, and that recklessness alone would be its downfall. Just as it was about to plow through the red pokémon, you shouted, "Now, Princess!"

        She twisted her paw. In the blink of an eye, the Thievul flipped herself, clearing Drednaw's wake as it barreled past. When she landed on her paws, she howled a sound you had never heard from her before—something raw and powerful that sent the Drednaw flying against the wall of the Stadium. It capsized, its head tilted to the lights overhead as it struggled to stay afloat through the oncoming darkness; a fight it would ultimately lose. A heartbeat later, it stilled. Suddenly, you were very aware of the wild cheering of the crowd and Princess' happy yips as she raced around you, then broke into a lap around the field. A smile you couldn't control plumped your cheeks. Despite the odds, you had beaten Nessa and secured your second Gym Badge. You turned to her triumphantly.

        "You defeated me?" Nessa took a step back, her brows furrowing in disbelief. Then, she sighed, "I see... And here I thought I'd be the one to wash you away."

        "You practically did." You chuckled, flinging your arms out again. Your clothes had dampened, but still clung to the underside of your skin uncomfortably. "Just look at me."

        "Hm." The sternness of her face let up for a moment as a humored sound escaped her lips. Just as quickly, she shook her head, reaching out her hand to you. "Please accept this Gym Badge. You've earned it."

        You grasped the badge with a sure hand and offered Nessa your outstretched palm with the other. She took your hand, her grip as smooth and unyielding as the waves tumbling the docks of Hulbury. She smiled again, her façade fading with it, as she said, "I look forward to seeing your progress through the Challenge, 007. I believe you and your team have the mind and spirit to win."

        "I'll do my best." You nodded as Thievul ran another victory lap around the pitch.

        Gym Badge in hand, you stepped into the cool night air, sharp with sea brine and midnight dew, and you breathed it in with a contented sigh. Dazzle and Princess bounded around your feet, crying up at you happily. The two seemed more mindful of each other now; Princess made a point not to trample the little Luxio underpaw, and Dazzle didn't complain when the Thievul hopped onto your knees for a pat and kisses. You made sure to pat Luxio, too, and she licked your palm with a purr. You smiled and stooped to their height.

        "You two did so well." You praised. Princess barked and wetted your cheek with waves of kisses. You pushed her off, giggling. "Princess!"

        Luxio bounded forward then, taking advantage of the distraction to give you a barrage of kisses of her own. You turned to her in surprise, but she didn't let up. Your giggles melted into unadulterated laughter as you did your best to fight them off, but ultimately let your arms fall in defeat. You tumbled down from their combined weight as the two climbed on top of you, crying and scrambling and kissing you in victory. You spat when one of their tongues slipped into your mouth. "That's nasty! Get off me, you two!"

        When you sat up, you spat again, fishing into your mouth to pull out the long, red hair tickling the back of your throat. You held it up to Thievul.

        "This yours?" You quickly snapped your hand away when she tried to bite it, chuckling, "What am I going to do with you?"

        With a yip, Princess darted away, distracted by something in a nearby patch of grass. You took the opportunity to get to your feet and dust yourself off, plucking some more hair and pebbles that clung to your damp jacket. You'd only managed to dislodge a couple before the clatter of claws on stone caught your attention. Dazzle sat beside you, tilting her head as Princess skipped by snapping after a runaway firefly. She hopped down the path leading to the docks and you turned to Luxio with a shrug. You had to go that way anyway.

        The both of you followed her down. Hulbury was a peaceful town at night. With most of the residents tucked away in their homes, the echo of your trainers skipping off stone walls, and the distant tumble of the ocean waves over pebbly shores, there was a sense of solace in the moonlit dark. You sucked another breath of cool, wet air and sighed. It was only with the growing croon of nearby voices did you notice the gold light creeping across the pathway. You perked, leaning on one leg to glimpse where it was coming from. Down the path, the Marketplace was alive with lights, people, and music. You caught the tip of Princess' tail just as it disappeared over the lip of the stairs.

        She may have learned to listen to you on the battlefield, but you supposed bright, shiny things would always be her weakness. Thrusting your hands into your pockets, you jogged to catch up with her.

        Trainers and their companions bimbled about the Marketplace first, the vendors selling their wares beside multi-colored tents second. You could smell food and something pungent on your tongue, and the strings of a guitar swelled in your ears ahead of you. It reminded you of the small community fairs Wedgehurst would host every year, but much livelier. You figured it had something to do with the Gym Challenge with how late it was. Squinting, you confirmed most of the merchandise on the tables was of the battle variety. It was no wonder Bunnie had liked this place. Most of all, you couldn't see Princess. You glimpsed over the heads of the crowd, focusing on the food stalls for a stray nose, but to no avail. Sighing, you retrieved Dazzle; you'd already lost one pokémon tonight.

        You squeezed between passersby into the throngs of the crowd. Laughter and light conversation buzzed around you and, if you hadn't been on a hunt, maybe you would've enjoyed the shoulders bumping into you and the vendors trying to catch your gaze. Funnily enough, you noticed a makeshift tent tilting in the center of the crowd, a group of young Freedom Fighters lounging in boredom inside. The crowd had formed a large distance around them like a moat; it was obvious no one had bothered with them the entire night. When they noticed you staring, they waved a little too desperately and you scrambled away before they could throw another flyer in your face. How they hadn't been kicked out yet was anyone's guess. 

        Looking over your shoulder, you didn't realize someone was in front of you before you collided with them. Well, it was more like bounced—you toppled to the ground as if you had hit a wall headfirst. Grunting, you squinted up at them through the glare of the lamplights. They spoke first, "Fluffle?"

        You scrambled to your feet, suddenly distinguishing Bunnie's silhouette peering down at you. She grasped at a few too many incenses she could carry, catching one before it could fall, and offered you a forced smile. Discomfort creased her brow. "Gee, Fluffle, are ya stalkin' me or somethin'? I feel like I just saw ya."

        "Bunnie?" You exclaimed. "What're you doing here? Weren't you going to battle Nessa? She's probably not taking any more Challengers by now!"

        "Huh? Bah, it's not that late. Wait..." She looked to you, then to the darkened sky overhead, then back to you. It was almost cartoonish the way her eyes bugged out of her head as realization settled in. "Bloody hell, why didn't you remind me sooner, Fluffle?! I gotta go!"

        The woman let the incense fall to the ground, shattering and spilling into the dirt with a pungent perfume, and shoved past you into the crowd. You watched her go with a furrowed brow before a finger tapped your shoulder. You glanced back and stumbled at the cross face that met you; an arrangement of lumps and crooked teeth that bristled your spine. The vendor folded her thick arms over her chest. "Someone better pay for this 'fore they pay with they teeth."

        You let out a nervous laugh, but when she cracked her fists at you, you quickly dipped into your wallet.

        She definitely made you overpay.

        Sighing, you turned back to the Marketplace, intent on finding Princess, and only Princess. Diving into the crowd, you called her name between the pockets of passersby. A few stopped you and pointed in the direction they'd noticed a stray Thievul, others quirked a brow as they walked right past. One, in particular, caught your gaze. A tall hooded man stopped beside you and you faced him. He was a giant of a man; maybe he'd spotted her over the heads of the crowd. Instead, he tilted his chin as chilling blue eyes skimmed your figure. You narrowed your eyes when he flashed you a lazy fanged grin. He rasped, "Princess yourself, pretty thing."

        Immediately, you bristled, clicking your tongue in disgust, "Piss off."

        The man blinked at you in surprise. Just by looking at him, you could tell he was unaccustomed to being rejected—those wild looks and cold gaze could make many a good girl's knees weak. But you were on a mission and weren't in the mood to cradle the sore heart of a catcaller. You'd outgrown his type long ago anyway. You glared him down, your brow turning ugly until he finally got the message. He threw his hands up with a shrug.

        "Ah-right, my bad." He replied simply. He ducked into a fold of people and disappeared from view.

        Some people, you seethed with a shake of your head. Around you, a few Trainers murmured in dismay at your exchange, but you paid them no mind. Princess. Find her. That was the only thing you needed to focus on.

        Eventually, you did find her. You stumbled into a small pocket of open space near a cluster of picnic tables. Princess stood atop the one furthest from you, nosing through some abandoned refuse. You lunged to stop her when you saw her sink her teeth into something she'd found. You caught her off guard and were able to knock the thing—a half-eaten fried squid on a stick—out of her mouth before she could run away. She complained at you, but a quick recall into her pokéball was enough for her to admit defeat. Sighing, you dusted the garbage into the trash and looked around.

        You supposed this wouldn't be a bad place to set up camp. You didn't feel like shoving through the crowd again, anyway. You let your bag fall to the wayside and got to building your tent... A task much easier said than done. The pole went there, oh, two poles, and another one? The poles went through the loops on the tarp and—no, nope, it fell over. Oh, you forgot the grommet. Well, you'd just lay it down here and—why's it so windy? You needed to stake it down, duh. Where'd you put those again? Finally, some nearby Trainers took pity on you and offered their help with well-intentioned, humored smiles. In your defense, it's not like you'd set up a tent before.

        Thanking the Trainers, you crawled into the tent with a sigh. You took the time to roll out your sleeping bag and finally discard the clothes still sticking to your skin, slipping into something much dryer and softer. The fair was winding down by now and more people seemed to be setting up their own camps around you. The laughter and music mellowed into soft murmurs on the breeze, and the woody scent of a bonfire touched your nose, casting warm, geometric shapes across the tarp. You watched as the shadow of a Yamper nosed about your tent before padding away when its name was called. Letting Thievul and Luxio back out probably wouldn't be a bad idea.

        Yeah, that was a half-baked idea.

        Dazzle settled the moment she hopped from her pokéball, claiming your side as her own. When Princess came out, she nearly knocked the tent over with her energy. Apparently, the concept of bedtime was just as foreign to her as not eating random things she found. It took some time and a little hero work on your part, but you eventually convinced her to flop beside you. The moment her head hit your stomach, she was fast asleep. You shook your head in disbelief at Dazzle and she rolled her eyes. The Luxio curled her tail over her nose, snoring soon after. You had intended to follow suit... Until your cell phone rang.

        You dragged your hand down your face in frustration. Today was never-ending. Who was calling you this late at night, anyway?

        You fetched your phone from your bag with a stretch and grunt. Bringing it to eye level, you jolted at the name on the screen: Linnea. It'd been a while since you'd spoken to her, not that she hadn't made an effort. You'd just been so busy between the Pokécenter and your mother. You hadn't thought about her when you ran away. You guessed some part of you figured she wouldn't care—she'd just been your boss after all... But she had also been your friend. Of course she'd have some questions about you randomly leaving. You hadn't even said goodbye. Guilt churned your stomach as the seconds rang by. Sighing, you answered the call. You owed her a response.

        "Hey, Linnea..." You sighed. "Listen—"

        "Honey?"

        You froze, fear striking your heart at the voice on the line. That wasn't Linnea. It wasn't even your mother. Slowly, you leaned upward as far as you could without waking Thievul, and murmured, "...Dad? Wh... Why are you calling me from Linnea's phone?"

        A relieved sound met your ears before your father continued, "I tried to call you from mine, but it kept kicking me to voicemail. Honey, what's going on? Where are you? Your mother says you ran off in the middle of the night with Luxio and didn't tell her where you were going. Are you okay? Why won't you answer our calls?"

        "... Did she tell you about our fight?" You crumpled your nose, bitterness edging your tone.

        "Bits and pieces..." He replied. "Is that what this is about? Honey, I'm sure if you two just talk it out—"

        No. There was nothing to talk about with her. Your voice hardened. "I got an endorsement letter from the Champion and I joined the Gym Challenge. Mum didn't like it, so she kicked me out. Did she tell you that, too?" Silence met your ears. You huffed, "I thought so."

        "Honey, she only wants what's best for you... We both do. After what happened with Luxio—"

        "It wasn't Dazzle's fault."

        Your father paused a heartbeat before he sighed, "I shouldn't have brought it up."

        The silence that followed was deafening—a divide you wished you could bridge despite the unspoken fear riddling both your minds. Perhaps then he could understand. A hollowness opened in your chest. Your father had never been on your side... But he had never truly been against you either. Could he understand if you tried? 

        "I got my second Gym Badge today." You said tentatively.

        "Did it go well?" Alarm sharpened the question, though he tried to hide it. Your father wasn't very convincing when it came to you.

        "Yeah... Her Drednaw was a monster, but Princess really pulled through in the end."

        "Princess?"

        "Oh, she's my newest team member... She's a Thievul." You added this last bit carefully, "Leon actually... gifted her to me."

        "Leon sure seems to have taken a liking to you." You flinched at the pointed suspicion poisoning his tone. He wasn't even trying to hide it this time. You're sure it had something to do with what your mother had said to you that night. Did your father believe it, too?

        "He, um... He said he saw potential in me..." You didn't want to find out. You turned the subject. "Do you want to say hi? To Dazzle and Princess, I mean."

        "No. I just want to talk to you." He heaved a heavy, painful sigh. "I'm worried about you. Your mother's worried. I know what she told you, but it's not what she meant. You'll always have a home here, honey... no matter what."

        You didn't know how to respond. Some part of you felt what he said wasn't true; your mother was never one to go back on her word. Another part hoped with all hope it was; just once, you wanted to be the exception in her mind. You weren't sure which weighed stronger in your heart. After a heartbeat, you murmured, "Thanks, Dad. I appreciate it."

        "You'll come home, right? After you're done with... all of this?" Your father's voice wavered. 

        Done with all of this? It hadn't occurred to you. The Gym Challenge could only last so long. What would you do when this was all over? You couldn't imagine yourself winning. You weren't weak, but you certainly weren't the strongest either. You were bound to hit a wall eventually and if that happened... Well, where else could you go but home? It wasn't what you'd hoped for yourself, but at least you had a life waiting for you there. You'd made it work before. And yet, even in some strange happenstance you were to win, did you truly want to become Champion? You didn't even know what it meant to be a Champion. Hell, you hadn't even caught your own pokémon before—what kind of Champion would that make you? Probably not a very good one. Your heart ached.

        In hindsight, you probably should've given this more thought, but you couldn't just back out now. You didn't want to back out now. You just wanted to be the Trainer you'd never had the chance to be. Was that so bad? You owed that much to Dazzle after twelve long years. And now you had Princess to think about, too, and Arceus knows she'd never be happy as a simple house pet... If your parents even let you keep them, that is. A chill settled on your skin as you recalled your mother's words. The price to pay to go back home... may just be saying goodbye to the only ones in your life that brought you joy. The thought alone wetted your eyes. You'd never be able to cope without them. You didn't even want to think about it.

        And you didn't want to hear your father's voice anymore.

        You swallowed the lump in your throat, "Dad, I... I love you, okay? I need to go."

        If your father noticed the thickness of your voice, he didn't acknowledge it. He replied, "... Alright, honey. I love you, too... Please be safe and... just remember what I said. You mean the world to us."

        "I know..." You didn't. You just couldn't tell him. "Goodnight, Dad."

        "Goodnight."

        The outside was dark and silent now. You let your phone slip from your fingers, your eyes flickering to the two snoring pokémon curled beside you. Carefully, you threaded your fingers through Luxio's mane and Thievul's chest fur, and smiled when they purred and stretched at your touch. You were glad your conversation hadn't woken them; the last thing you wanted was to keep them up with worries about your parents and the future. Seeing them sleep so peacefully lightened your heart. You supposed it didn't matter what the future held; the three of you were together and happy now. You'd figure out how to ensure it when the time came. The thought brought you some solace—enough to settle back into your sleeping back and close your eyes with a heavy sigh. You didn't remember falling asleep.

Chapter Text

Even In My Dreams, I Can't Win - Bad Suns

        You woke with a kink in your spine and drool in your hair. Thievul sprawled across you, her snout resting beneath your chin, while Luxio curled into a ball in the crook of your shoulder and shoved her back legs against your ribs. Princess' morning breath steamed your skin as drool continued to puddle in the dip of your neck. Your arm was going numb from Dazzle's weight. Grunting, you tried to retrieve your arm to wipe the wetness away. The two growled in protest the moment you shifted. When you paused, they settled once more, snoring and twitching with dreams. Chuckling softly, you let your lids fall. You supposed you could kill time a little while longer.

        You stirred again when the sun speckled the overhead of your tent, casting warm light beneath your eyes. You squinted, swallowing the grossness in your mouth, and decided you couldn't sleep the morning away. After all, you had to make your way back to Motostoke to take on Kabu—a roundabout trek that would take much longer if you didn't wake up now. You sat up, rolling the whiny Thievul off your chest as Luxio grumbled without the cradle of your arm. Outside your sleeping bag and lacking your pokémons' warmth, the chilled ocean air prickled the hairs of your skin. You shivered and dressed quickly. Beside you, Princess and Dazzle slowly shook sleep from their fur. You smiled when the Thievul flopped beside Luxio, grooming the bed head from her blue mane.

        Your morning routine included checking your phone, though, it seemed to have died in the night. Unlike your peers, your parents had never allowed you to have a Rotomi phone—labeling it another practice of practicality, but in reality, they only feared what you might do with pokémon-powered technology. After all, what if another pokémon lead you to rebel? A strained smile flickered your lips as you recalled your conversation with your father the night before. You certainly hadn't needed a Rotomi phone to catch Leon's eye or win your second Badge. Handing the device to Dazzle, she powered it with a quick jolt of electricity from her tail and leaned back into Thievul's tongue. You waited for it to turn on as you brushed the tangles from your hair.

        You'd gotten a text in the night. Apparently, Bunnie had successfully harassed Nessa into being the last competitor of the night and had won without breaking a sweat. She thanked you for softening Nessa up, but you felt it had more to do with the fact it was near 2:00 o'clock when she messaged you than with your battle against her. You had beaten her pretty bad though. You congratulated Bunnie with a smiley face and a thumbs up. A few more notifications poured in, mostly spam emails, social media posts, and updates you didn't bother with. Then, a Pokégram notification you'd never seen before blinked to life on your phone. You tilted your head and selected it. It was a message request from a familiar account:

Champion Leon ☑️ • @galarchampionleon

Today 6:39
Hey, all-star, txt me back when u get the chance ✌️

Do you want to let @galarchampionleon send you messages from now on?
They'll only know you've seen their request if you choose Accept.

[Accept]                [Delete]                [Block]

        Your lips parted with a soft hum of surprise. You were mostly surprised he'd managed to find your account than the fact he had messaged you—you'd abandoned it during your studies and had only posted a couple of pictures of Dazzle when she was a Shinx. Your favorite was on of her batting a crumpled paper ball that'd missed your trash can. She'd been so adorable back then... Not that she wasn't cute now, but she definitely didn't beat up paper balls for both your amusement either. And she had the softest baby fur and the fattest cheeks you loved to squish and those paws— Before you could get caught in the snares of memory lane, however, you shot the man a reply.

Reader_2000 • @ausernamethatsnotalreadytaken

Today 7:58
hey what's up?
Seen

        A moment later, your phone blared alive with an incoming call. The three of you jolted from the sudden sound and you scrambled to answer it, only to pause. You stared at the screen, incredulity crossing your brows. People could video call you on Pokégram? Why hadn't you known that before? And why was Leon calling you? Past the glare of the screen you could see your own reflection gawping back at you—your slicked hair, sleep-stained eyes, and dried drool all very apparent in the makeshift mirror. Arceus, you looked terrible. You'd be mortified if he saw you like this. Steeling yourself, you answered the call before flipping the phone to the roof of the tent. The man's pretty face appeared on the screen a second later. Princess bounded over to it, snuffling the phone excitedly.

        "Sorry, gotta walk and talk." Over Thievul's shoulder, the video shuddered with each step as he glanced down at his phone. You noticed Dragapult hovering beside him, then the silhouettes of Wyndon shopfronts through its misted form. Leon smiled at Princess, "Hey, troublemaker. You've gotten so big!"

        The Thievul barked in greeting, wagging her tail happily. You gasped when she started to dig at the screen with her claws. You lurched to save your phone. "Princess, don't!"

        "There you are, all-star!" Leon exclaimed as the Thievul whined against your arm. You held the phone just out of her reach, aiming it at your tragic morning face. So much for saving your pride.

        "Yeah, hi!" You winced when Princess nipped your arm. "Sorry I look like a mess, I just woke up."

        "Didn't even notice." He flashed you a quick smile. "You look great."

        His eyes betrayed nothing, mostly because he was looking forward now, and though, you figured his words had been meant as a simple reassurance, it burned your back with shyness. It wasn't every day you got a compliment like that, after all, no matter its innocent intent. You decided to change the subject. You rolled Thievul into the corner of the tent with one final push. "I didn't know you could call people on Pokégram. How did you even find my profile anyway?"

        "It came up on Bunnie's timeline." He replied with a humored smile, "Seems like you're makin' some pretty popular friends nowadays."

        "Wait, you follow Bunnie?' An incredulous laugh tickled your lips. "As in, Challenger 103? With the Purrloin?"

        "Yes, her! Why do you seem so surprised? I support newcomers when I can."

        You recalled the endorsement he had given you not too long ago. You smiled warmly. "That's sweet of you, Leon."

        "Please, it's nothing, really." The man chuckled and you were surprised at the embarrassment pinkening his cheeks. He dismissed it with a wave of his hand. "Hey, I wanted to ask you something. You've heard of Challenger 681, right? With the Vileplume?"

        "Yeah, Nate, right?"

        "That's right. He beat Raihan last night and demanded to battle me next." Leon caught eyes with you again, his gaze sparking with excitement. You quirked a brow when he didn't continue.

        "So, what?" You smirked. "Are you asking me permission to battle him or something?"

        He coughed out a laugh, shaking his head. "You're funny, all-star, but no. Actually, I'd like to invite you to our match if you have the time. It's happening later today."

        Your heart skipped in surprise at that. Tilting your head in thought, you only snorted. "Am I even allowed to do that?"

        "I can pull a few strings."

        "Right... And why exactly do you want me to see this match?"

        "Well, for one it'll be fun. Two, so I can give you your Dynamax band, and three... Well, let's just say it's for 'educational purposes.'"

        "Huh?" You started again, another incredulous laugh escaping your lips. "What am I, your student?"

        "You're in school, aren't you?"

        "I graduated weeks ago!"

        "Oh, well..." Leon pursed his lips. "Consider it postgraduate work, then."

        "That's not—" You rolled your eyes playfully, shaking your head. "Alright, yeah, I can spare a couple hours. When's the match?"

        "Tonight. I'll send a Taxi to Hulbury now. You should get to Wyndon by this afternoon."

        You made it to Wyndon by midday, just as Leon had promised. What he hadn't promised was the mishaps between then and now.

        Princess was difficult not to love and just as difficult not to strangle. You'd allowed her to out of her pokéball in the morning and she had behaved well enough, which is to say she didn't dig through garbage or eat random things. But you soon became unpopular among the other campers when their things suddenly turned up in her mouth and into your palm. It had been endearing the first couple times and she had even shared with Dazzle—until one of those things became an expensive gold chain or a pair of glasses. You knew Thievul's were known for stealing; you knew she was only trying to express her love language in the most innate of ways. But you were still quick to pack up and hop into the Flying Taxi the moment it touched ground.

        But her reign of terror wouldn't end there. When she wasn't pestering Dazzle, she was practicing parkour in the small space of the Taxi. Thievul's weren't known for parkour, but yours seemed to want to prove the world wrong. More than once, the pilot scolded you for moving so much; more than once, you only sat there in defeat as her and Dazzle exchanged another series of verbal battery in your ears. You supposed one battle together wouldn't have resolved all their differences, but Arceus, you preferred when they at least tolerated each other. You were beginning to wonder if Leon had given you Thievul to satisfy some deranged fantasy of legal torture. It was the only explanation when she was using your stomach as a landing pad in another attempt to backflip off the opposite seat. Beaten and bruised, you retrieved your phone to try to pass the time.

        You should have put her in her pokéball by then. Why you hadn't was beyond you, but you had certainly paid for it. Because instead of scrolling through your phone as you had planned, Princess enacted her own. Performing another unsuccessful backflip off the opposite seat, a stray claw had caught your hand, and you jolted at the pang—enough to send your phone flying out the open door. The three of you had scrambled to watch it fall to the countryside below, a small gray fleck slowly shrinking into the yellow grass like a piece of dust. And that was the end of your ties to the rest of the world. You groaned into your palm, Dazzle glared at Princess, and Princess wiggled her rump in anticipation. It wasn't until she also launched herself out the door after your phone did you get the sense to finally retrieve her.

        The rest of the ride to Wyndon was much more pleasant after that, and a lot more boring. Dazzle seemed more appreciative of the silence, as did the pilot when he thanked you for 'finally calming down.' You merely grunted. When all was said and done, the only thing you couldn't complain about was the bath you had squeezed in at the Hulbury docks. At least you hair would smell nice for your third meeting with Leon... Not that it mattered. You could do with a hairbrush, though, and a lint roller. Did you remember to brush your teeth? Your stomach hurt, too; was it nerves, the bruising, or the fact you hadn't eaten this morning? Arceus, you were a graceless, spineless, phoneless disaster of a Trainer. You slumped further into the seat.

        The silence gave you space to think, and you were quickly reminded of your pending destination. You'd spent your girlhood in Wyndon. You'd attended Hero's Shield School, a prestigious academy that'd introduced you to battling and gave you the training and bodies needed to hone your craft. Your parents had particularly liked their rigorous curriculum. You had always been a good student, but you recalled you'd also been big among your peers, too, until the... until 'moving.' Everything had changed so suddenly after that. You still remembered the day the house was sold. An older gentleman had bought it, intent on converting the ground floor into a small shop with trinkets he found in the Wild Area. He was already moving his tools in when you heaved your last box to the car.

        You'd long since overcome the sadness the memory had caused you. Still, you wished you could say you were nostalgic for simpler times. Instead, you were conflicted by curiosity and the spurts of anxiety bubbling your belly. You wanted to see your hometown again. You wanted to see how it had evolved since you left; being the capital of the region, you could only imagine the possibilities were limitless. Yet, dread lingered in the back of your mind. What if someone recognized you? What if they remembered what had happened? You imagined you looked different enough from twelve years ago. Twelve years was a long time to forget faces and places, and you all had only been children back then. Certainly more interesting things had replaced their memories of you by now. Your stomach curdled anyway.

        When the Taxi landed in Wyndon Square, you slipped out with a strained smile and an apologetic tip in hand. The pilot waved you off without accepting either, busying himself with another passenger that'd jumped in front of you instead. At least you got to keep your money. Sighing, you sidestepped away from the Taxi and into the throngs of the Wyndonian wilds. If you thought Motostoke was a big city, you weren't prepared for just how big Wyndon had become since you left. The melting pot of faces, neon shopfronts, stock-brick skyscrapers, even the brick-paved streets were unfamiliar and new. The only thing you recognized among them was the Corviknight Statue sprawling its bronze plumage to the midday sun in display of its iron majesty. You spotted Leon beside it entertaining a band of fans. The nerves in your stomach settled as you and Dazzle jogged to meet him.

        "Hey, Leon!" You called, and the man peered up at you mid-autograph.

        His eyes alit with recognition, and he smiled apologetically, gesturing to the people around him. You nodded and took a seat on one of the nearby stone benches. When the crowd slowly dissipated, he approached you. "Sorry about that, all-star. They always manage to catch me off guard."

        You smiled, Dazzle curled comfortably in your arms, and hopped off the bench, "Duty calls.”

        “That's one way of putting it.” He replied. “This your first time in Wyndon?”

        “No, actually." You said. "Daz and I grew up here way back when. It’s good to be back in the ol’ stomping grounds.”

        "What happened to being a small town girl?"

        You cringed. You forgot your mother had told him that. It's not like you'd actually been lying then—it'd been way too long since you'd been in the big city to call yourself anything but a small town girl. You shrugged half-heartedly. "That was after we moved."

        “Ah," he nodded, offering you a smile, "well, let me be the first to say welcome back."

        “It’s been a while. Everything looks so different," you gestured to the tall, unfamiliar buildings dwarfing the both of you, "I’m looking forward to seeing what’s stayed the same.”

        “You know, we do have some time before the match starts… Why don’t I give you a look around?”

        “Oh, you don't need to do that!" You turned to him with wide eyes. "I’m sure you have to prepare and all.”

        “I guess I could," he smirked, "but something tells me I don't really need to.”

        You rolled your eyes with a smile. “Careful there, champ, your ego is showing.”

        He chuckled, but stopped short, his lips parting with a soft 'oh.' He retrieved something from his back pocket and handed it to you. "Here, so I don't forget again. I had Sonia make it after I battled you in Wedgehurst. It's white so you can customize it if you want."

        You took the white Dynamax band with a grin, surprised by its weight. It wasn't heavy per se, but you could definitely tell a Wishing Piece was inside. You slipped it onto your wrist feeling a little more like a proper Trainer. Dazzle sniffed it and grunted in approval; she'd prefer this to spamming Protect in your battle against Kabu. Band in tow, the three of you started down the sidewalk together and Leon gestured to the aforementioned Luxio in your arms.

        “How’s the team looking? I can’t wait to see all the new members you’ve caught since we saw each other.”

        “Oh, uh, yeah…” You stuttered. “Well, it’s still just Dazzle and Princess for now.”

        The man started, his eyes wide and confused, "Huh?"

        "Yeah, I haven't really had a chance to, um, yeah..." You wouldn't admit it, but you'd had more than enough time to expand your team. You just... weren't in the market for it, yet. Yeah, that's right. You'd do it when the time was right, which was anytime except right now. Leon shook his head.

        "Don't forget what I told you. Dazzle and Princess might be strong, but they can only carry you so far." He glanced at the Luxio. "No offense, Daz."

        She huffed, and your eyes trailed to the side. "I know, I know... I will soon."

        "Hopefully today's match will give you a better understanding. I did say it was for educational purposes."

        "Educational," you tried a smile, hoping to turn the conversation, "or are you just planning on showing off?"

        "Guess you'll just have to wait and see." He winked and you couldn't help but smile at the pleasant twinge in your chest. Suddenly, your stomach growled horrendously loud despite the city clamor. You flushed with embarrassment, but Leon only chuckled. "It is a pretty long flight from Hulbury. Why don't we grab a bite? I can take you to the best spot in town."

        The best spot in town, it seemed, was a rugged greasy spoon tucked away in the inner sanctums of the city, barely visible from the main street and rather small compared to the sophisticated restaurants you'd passed along the way. A chipped red sign stuck to the window, partially blocked by a truck rolled partway on the sidewalk. The awning over the front door was striped and frayed at the tips, weather-weary from years of rainfall and hot summers. You nudged Leon in the side with a lopsided smile. "You must love this place a whole lot. You didn't even get lost."

        "I made sure to remember Pappy's by heart." He grinned back. "They have the best disco fries in all Galar."

        You weren't sure what 'disco fries' were, but you nodded anyway. Retrieving Luxio, Leon and you ducked beneath the awning, and you narrowed your eyes at the sign that greeted you at the glass door: 'Pappy's Good Eats.' You pushed it open with the tinkle of a bell. Immediately, you flushed at the eyes snapping to the two of you as you slipped into a beaten brown booth closest to the bar. The diner murmured with soft rock and the grumbles of prying patrons, many of whom looked just as rugged as the shopfront outside. You peered at Leon from your side of the green-clothed table, wide-eyed behind your paper menu.

        "Everyone's staring at you, Leon."

        "Hm?" He glanced at you, then at the eyes boring into your backs. "Oh, no, not me. They're looking at you."

        "What?" You yelped. "Is something on my face?"

        "No, you look great. It's just not everyday they see a new face in here. This place is pretty out of the way from the rest of the city." He offered you a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, you just have to pass Pappy's test and you'll be fine."

        "Test? I thought we came here to eat?"

        "Educational, remember?"

        "I'm going to educate you with my fist if you keep saying that."

        Leon barked out a laugh at that, throwing his menu on the table just as a man lumbered over. The man was round and short, but by no means soft for it. In fact, he was quite barrel-chested, stray hairs curling from beneath his yellowed working shirt and apron as if to make up for what was lacking atop his head. A stained cloth around his neck offset the empty space. He leaned against the table, calloused red hands sprawled across the tablecloth as he glowered at the both of you. If you were being honest, his arms looked as if they could crush a small child with ease because he looked like the type to crush a small child for fun. Except, compared to him, you might be considered a small child, too. You scooted closer to Leon just in case. Finally, he fixed Leon with a bulging eye, rasping, "Been a while since I seen yer fancy ass in these parts, Lee. This yer new girl? Mighty fine for a poodle like you."

        "Good to see you too, Pappy. Just get me the usual, thanks."

        "Prick." Pappy's eye snapped to you, his lip pulling with a growl. "Whada'bout you, girl? Or ya jus' gonna keep starin' like I jus'said I'm bouta punch yer teeth in?"

        "... Are you going to punch my teeth in?"

        "Dunno yet."

        He didn't laugh. Quickly, you busied yourself with the menu. "Uh, just get me the... What's a... 'hots potots?'"

        "Lenny, did'ya git that? The bird wants the hots potots. The hell ya lookin' at me like that for? Git yer ass movin'!" The man lumbered toward the kitchen and, when he was far enough, you leaned closer to Leon with a start.

        "Arceus, Leon, where in the world did you bring me to?" You hissed. "Everyone in here looks like they're about to kill me!"

        "Careful, they can smell fear." He threw his arm over the booth, his much more relaxed than your own.

        "You're an ass."

        "That's the spirit." He perked, a grin alighting his cheeks. "You'll fit right in in no time."

        You weren't sure what he meant, but you rolled your eyes and smiled anyway. Just as before, Leon was as easy to talk to as he was to look at, and you soon melted in the booth beside him. It was easy, too, to forget you were talking to the Champion of Galar in this dinky little diner in the arm pit of the biggest city of the world. You told him about your adventure thus far and, much to your delight, he was just as enamored with your story as you were. He sympathized with you over your fight with your parents, praised you for your quick wit in your battle against Milo, and laughed himself to tears at your struggles with Princess—he was all too familiar with her vices. But Dazzle and Princess were strong, and he was glad they were in the hands of such a capable Trainer. He had no doubt you would make it far in the Challenge. He'd looked at you so earnestly then, his thumb softly skipping the nape of your neck as he gestured. You'd blushed.

        All too soon, Pappy returned with two steaming plates in tow. The one he placed in front of Leon looked to be chips slathered in melted cheese, flecks of parsley, and an abhorrent amount of brown gravy. Despite its odd appearance, the savory scent of salt and beef met your nose and you wondered if it tasted as good as it smelled. But you quickly lost your appetite when you saw your own. The plate Pappy offered you was... less than appealing and smelled even stranger. You think you recognized some of the foods, but it was difficult to decipher the alchemy of this amalgamation: you spotted some chips, bits of pasta, beans, some burger and cheese, maybe? That looks like an egg... You weren't sure. Everything was coated in a thick layer of meat sauce and mustard. You blinked at Pappy.

        "What am I looking at?"

        "We was Unovan 'fore we came to the city." He replied gruffly. "That there's m'Ma's famous hot potot. Ya don't like it? Bah, ya ain't even try it yet!"

        After talking with Leon, you were feeling a little braver, and a little more willing to be punched in the face than put whatever this was in your mouth. "It looks like you shit on my plate and served it to me."

        Leon, in the midst of popping another chip in his mouth, choked with laughter. Pappy's eyes narrowed, his knuckles suddenly white as he clenched his fists and crossed his arms. "Eat it or git out."

        Okay, maybe you weren't as brave as you thought. You palmed your fork, deciding where best to breach this comestible crime, but ultimately skimmed the top. You tasted it tentatively, licked your lips, and blinked in surprise at the sapid tang salting your tongue; it was an odd assortment of flavors, but not unpleasant. You took another bite and found you liked it even better. You turned back to Pappy in awe. "It tastes like an angel just shat in my mouth!"

        There was a bout of silence. Then, Pappy let out a howl of a laugh. 

        "Ha, yer fine, girl!" He seized your shoulder and shook you approvingly. "Enjoy yer food."

        Pappy lumbered away once more, and Leon flashed you a toothy grin. "Looks like you passed." 

         The two of you spoke between mouthfuls of the heaviest, saltiest food you'd ever had in your life, and only about how you couldn't believe you hadn't come here sooner. Leon, in particular, seemed more pleased by your appraisal than by the empty plate before him, chuckling when your eyes rolled back in delight once again with another bite. It was only when Pappy laid the tab on the table did you finally set your fork down. You reached for your wallet. 

        "Hey, don't sweat it." Leon said, cash already in hand. "Lunch's on me."

        You arched a brow. "You've already done so much. I gotta thank you somehow."

        "Watching you grow stronger is thanks enough." He placed the payment down, but you quickly pushed his hand away for your own.

        "Yeah, I don't think so. I'll cover it."

        The both of you stared each other down for a moment. Then, Leon threw his hand up. "Alright, how about this: you win against me in an arm wrestle, you can pay the tab. Deal?"

        An arm wrestle? What were you, kids squabbling over who called dibs first? You narrowed your eyes with a smirk. "You're on."

        "Ready?" Leon set his arm on the table.

        You flexed your fingers and grasped his palm. "Ready."

        "3... 2... 1—Go!"

        Immediately, you pressed down hard, but his arm didn't budge. Screwing your eyes, you lifted yourself off your seat to force more weight against his palm. Again, he didn't move and the man quirked a brow at you. He hadn't even tried to push against your hand yet. You slipped a chuckle, a little annoyed and a little determined, and stood upright. Your arm strained against his now, but the high ground hadn't given you an advantage in the slightest. In a last ditch effort, you clasped both your intertwined hands with your free one and tried to force his arm down with what remaining strength you could muster. A triumphant smile pulled Leon's lips. Despite the obvious strain of your muscles, he easily flipped your hand and touched your knuckles to the table in one swift movement. You fell back into the booth as he slipped his palm from yours.

        "I win." He grinned and threw his cash down. You gawked at him.

        "Arceus, Leon, do you bench-press Copperajahs or something? I couldn't move you at all!"

        "I try to squeeze in a set or two when I get the chance."

        Back on the street, you turned to Leon with a grin, "Well, now that that's over, how about I take you somewhere this time?"

        "And where's that?" He glanced at you curiously.

        "Back when my parents sold the house, some old bloke bought it." You said. "Planned on running a business out of it with stuff he found in the Wild Area. I'm keen to find out what kinda stuff he found—if he's even still there."

        "Stuff from the Wild Area, huh? Sounds like a champion time, all-star."

        Your childhood home was wedged in the crossroads of the downtown; close enough to reap the tourism of the main strip, but far enough away one might mistake it as just another of the red townhouses lining the street. This meant it was quiet when you arrived compared to the rest of the city. The home was mostly unchanged in the last twelve years, save for the hand-written poster board leaning under the white window. The Wild Aremporium, it read in neat black cursive. A poorly doodled pokémon you couldn't decipher smiled beneath it, urging you to come inside. The two of you climbed the crumbled front steps, careful not to dislodge any of the aged concrete. The front door was propped open with a rather large, speckled Everstone. You supposed this meant the shop was open.

        Your footsteps echoed in your ears from the hardwood floors underfoot, and you fought the urge to rush the stairwell ahead of you just as you had done as a child. You turned to your left instead. Immediately, you recognized the living room, though, it had become threadbare and stale-scented since your girlhood; you didn't recall the walls being that shade of yellow, either. Instead of furniture, the space was filled with an intricate rug and folding tables topped with various items: technical machines to curios to berries you hadn't seen before. There seemed to be an order to them, with the berries cradled in green baskets nearest the front door while the TMs were tucked away in a box in the corner closest to the kitchen. You heard the rap of claws drag across the kitchen floor before a bow-legged pokémon stumbled into the room.

        The gray-faced Boltund let out a soft bray, blinking lethargically at the two of you. To your surprise, Leon knelt beside you, holding out his hand to the Boltund with a low whistle. The old pokémon's tail wagged slowly. It padded forward on stiff limbs, whining as it laid its head in the curve of Leon's palm. He massaged its jowls with his thumb and it groaned blissfully, sagging to the floor as it leaned further into Leon's hand. The man smiled as he mumbled praise into the pokémon's ears, his hand moving to scratch beneath its chin, and the Boltund kicked its foot in approval. You blushed in amazement as the Boltund lost itself to Leon's gentle touch; there was something oddly attractive in seeing the soft way he interacted with the old pokémon. You settled down beside them and ran your hand down its shoulder.

        "Right here." Your face reddened when Leon took your hand and guided it to the center of the pokémon's chest, your fingers brushing the prosternum underneath. You had learned about the anatomy of the ribcage in pokénursing school, but you had never known it to be any kind of acupoint in pokemon. Were you even supposed to do that on such an old Boltund? Swallowing, you rubbed the bone with a careful hand. The pokémon let out another groan, the stiffness in its joints seeming to melt as it sprawled its legs across the floor. A moment later, a soft snore reached your ears. You turned to Leon in surprise as he gentled the sleeping pokémon's head onto the plush rug.

        "You're good at this." You said stupidly.

        The man chuckled, "I've had some practice."

        Wish he'd practice on me, you thought... Wait. What?

        "Rufus?" The two of you snapped your gazes to the stairwell. A hunched man swayed beside the bannister, his brows pulling in surprise at the two of you. His voice was gentle as he greeted you, "Oh, hi, folks. Didn't even hear ya come in. I got all sorts of lil doodads in here from the Wild Area. Take a look around if ya please. I'll join ya in a moment, forgot my peepers upstairs."

        The man wobbled back up the stairs and Leon stood, wandering away to appraise the box of technical machines in the corner. You stayed by the Boltund, running your hand down its side and pursing your lip at the strange thought that had struck you. You blushed again, unsure where it had came from, but tried to make sense of it anyway. Practice could mean anything, really—like battling or arm wrestling. You could always get better at those two things, especially when it came to Leon. Maybe then you'd be able to pay the tab next time. Yes, that must've been what your mind meant and nothing else. You were only blushing because it was hot in here... Mildly warm... A little above room temperature... The specifics weren't important anyway.

        The stairwell creaked again overhead and you lunged at the chance for a distraction. Getting to your feet, you mounted the stairwell and offered a hand to the old man. He adjusted his glasses to get a better look at you. "You're one of them Challengers on my telly. Aren't you a sweet girl? These old bones need all the help they can get."

        He slipped a thin, wrinkled hand into yours and you guided him to the ground floor. When he noticed Leon, he let out a hearty belly laugh at the Champion standing in his living room.

        "My, you are some familiar faces. Must still be watchin' the good ol' telly." The old man smiled, his face a rolling valley of delightful creases. "Welcome to my 'lil corner of Wyndon. Name's Cawley. Hope I can help ya find somethin' ya like."

        "We're just looking." You replied. The old man nodded, leaning against the bannister to support himself. Cawley was a skeleton of a man beneath the silhouette of his baggy clothes and shoots of balding gray hair, small enough to be swept away by a wayward breeze trickling in from the open front door. He offered you a gentle smile as you went about the tiny shop, his cheeks plumping warmly despite the thinness of his skin, and you found it put you at ease. Pushing his glasses back up the bridge of a crooked nose, he turned his gaze to the Boltund resting on the rug. His cheeks swelled once more at the sight of the old yellow pokémon, and he murmured a loving word beneath his breath. Cawley, it seemed, was a man well past his prime in all but heart. 

        "How're yer folks, sweetheart?" You started at the old man. You set down the gold nugget in your hand and tilted your head. Cawley continued, "I knew I recognized yer face from somewhere. Bought this house from yer parents years ago. I remember ya looked so sad back then. Feelin' better nowadays, I hope?"

        "Oh, uh, yeah..." You hadn't expected him to remember you. You wrung your hands. "We're good... I'm surprised you remember me."

        "I've always been good at rememberin' faces. Probably why I can't remember where my peepers are half the time!" He winked at you from under his glasses and you smiled weakly. Did he remember why your parents sold the house? Certainly he wouldn't be privy to schoolyard drama. Of course, what you had done wasn't much in the way of drama. But the man merely smiled again.

        "Still shy, I see. That's alright." His voice was soothing. "What did ya get up to after ya left Wyndon?"

        "We, uh, moved to Wedgehurst." You replied. "Went to school to be a pokénurse... Didn't really work out, though."

        "Wedgehurst, ya say? Ya happen to know Lynn?"

        "Linnea? Who runs the berry shop?"

        "That's the one! It's been decades since I've seen her." He smiled wistfully, perhaps recalling a happy memory of your shared old friend. "What's she up to these days? Last I heard, she took up talkin' to trees."

        You couldn't help but laugh, the tension in your shoulders easing. "Well, you're not wrong about that. She's still running the shop. I worked for her for a few years, actually. How do you know her?"

        "Oh, we were rivals back in the day," he gestured at Leon, "long before this one became Champion. Don't let her fool ya, she was one tough broad back then. I remember the day she climbed to the top of the Watchtower and cannonballed right into Lake Axewell. 'Course, this was back before the tower was fallin' apart. Sure you couldn't do that nowadays, but Lynn woulda found a way. Ya were always in for a good time with her."

        "I could see her doing something like that." You chuckled. Cawley seemed none the wiser of your history, happy to bask in the warmth of his own glory days instead. You sighed in relief and returned to the table.

        "Hey, all-star, check this out." You perked at Leon's voice from his spot at the TM box. He hadn't moved since you'd arrived, crouched to thumb through each record meticulously, and it seemed he'd found whatever he was looking for. You padded over and settled beside him. He held a black record between two fingers. 

        "What's that?" You asked.

        "TR58, Dark Pulse." He wiggled it enthusiastically. "It'd be good for Princess. Thievuls are stronger as special attackers, but they don't really learn any good special moves."

        Your spine prickled uncomfortably. "It's not... Is it very powerful?" 

        Leon thought a moment before shrugging, "It's fairly powerful. Much better than Snarl, in any case."

        You nodded, casting your eyes to the side in thought. You supposed the Champion knew a thing or two about powerful moves. Though, you weren't sure what his definition of 'fairly' entailed. For all you knew, Draco Meteor was also 'fairly powerful' to someone like Leon. You wanted nothing to do with a move like that. He continued, "Have you ever used a TR?"

        "A couple times... Years ago. They were TMs, though."

        "TRs are pretty similar." The man nodded. "Only difference is they're pretty fragile so you have to be careful with 'em. See?"

        You watched as Leon bent the record, gasping at how easily it gave in his grasp. Cawley was quick to interject. "Hey, careful there, son. You may be the Champion, but I can't let you go breakin' my livelihood."

        Leon stood and turned to the old man. "How much for one of these?" 

        "3,000 p." Cawley replied.

        "Want one?"

        "I'll get it, thank you." Quickly, you stood on your tiptoes and plucked the record from his fingers. You still weren't entirely sure if you wanted the TR, but you definitely didn't want Leon buying it for you. The man burst with a smile as you fished for your wallet in your bag.

        "What?" He laughed. "Why'd you say it like that?"

        You rolled your eyes playfully, handing Cawley the payment. "What, he says."

        "I got my telly upstairs if ya want to use that." The old man offered a grin. "Free of charge, 'course."

        Upstairs, Cawley lead you to a room you never thought you'd see again. Air caught in your throat as you lingered in the threshold, blinking at the space of your old bedroom. Instead of your bed, it housed a small couch, coffee table, and a television pushed against the wall, behind which sat a desk and laptop beside an antique lamp. The curtains were drawn and the overhead shone through the darkness meekly. You stumbled in at Cawley's beckoning, and he introduced you to his DVD player with a quirk of his lip. You only partially listened as he explained the device to you. It had been years and yet, you still hadn't expected it to look so different. Even your closet doors had been painted a different color.

        "She's all yours." Cawley patted the DVD player and wobbled back downstairs. You looked around the room from your spot on the floor. It was strange. Here you were, sitting in your childhood home for the first time in twelve years and you felt... Empty? Shocked? Scared? You couldn't place it. The townhouse was familiar in the way remembering a distant dream might be; the framework hadn't changed, yet, an unease had settled like dust atop what just didn't belong, racing your heart with each passing moment. But that wasn't it, either. Everything here belonged—you were the one out of place. This wasn't your bedroom. This wasn't your home. You were a ghost within your own memory. Breathing a shaky sigh, you released Thievul from her pokéball. The sooner you could leave, the better.

        Princess learned Dark Pulse faster than you anticipated—the TR was much like those old at-home workout videos hosted by a Move Tutor and her Gengar instead of a fitness instructor. You supposed knowing Snarl had made it simpler; the two moves were quite similar, after all. Either way, you were glad to be done with it. Between the strangeness of the room and the Gengar that seemed to smile at you through the screen, you were definitely getting the creeps. You retreated downstairs nursing the goosebumps prickling your arms. The TR laid shattered in your palm.

        "I tried to pick up all the pieces I could." You swept the broken shards into the bin in the kitchen. "It broke the moment I took it out of the DVD player."

        Cawley offered you a reassuring smile; he'd expected as much. Leon spoke up from beside the the front door. "We should head for the stadium. The match'll be starting soon."

        You nodded much more eagerly than you'd intended. Cawley and Rufus waved the both of you off from the front step of the townhouse, "Come back anytime. I'll tell ya more stories 'bout me and Lynn!"

        You nodded less eagerly at that. 

        Wyndon Stadium wasn't far from the old townhouse, another perk of its location you recalled finding exciting as a child. You could already see it over the hilltop. The day was dipping towards the skyline, late afternoon sunlight blushing the walkway below through the petal-esque walls of the stadium. You imagined it'd be hard for either of you to lose your way with such a beacon of the city to guide your path. You walked in stride beside Leon, wondering what to talk about as you made your way to the stadium. What did the Champion talk about before such an important match? Battle strategies? Full restores and potions? Post-victory afterparties? It was then it occurred to you he may not be the Champion after tonight. What would happen then?

        "The Gym Challenge would keep going." Leon reassured. "You'd just battle Nate instead of me at the end of it. But I don't think you really need to worry about that. I never loose battles."

        You opened your mouth to reply. A small voice spoke instead.

        "Leon, Leon, Champion Leon! Please wait!" The two of you stopped short as a boy with a brown knot for hair tumbled to a halt beside you. You blinked in surprise and took a step back, but Leon didn't move. Breathlessly, the boy waved around a journal and pen and exclaimed, "Can I get an autograph, please?"

        Leon smiled warmly, kneeling to the child's height as he took the items. "Sure thing, lil bud. Who do I make it out to?"

        "Wesley." He breathed. As Leon scribbled into the journal, the boy turned to you and pointed. "Is she your girl friend, too?"

        Immediately, you choked on the spit in your mouth, red-faced and wide-eyed with embarrassment and definitely nothing else. You tucked your face behind your palm to hide the brunt of your blush. You knew the boy meant nothing by it; he didn't look old enough to understand what a girlfriend even was. That didn't stop the strange feeling tickling the pit of your stomach at the thought. The boy continued to stare at you curiously. You could hear the humor in Leon's voice as he replied, "Oh, no, she's just my friend. She's very nice, though."

        "That's what I said." The boy turned from you to Leon with a scoff. "She's a girl who's your friend. Your girl friend!"

        "Ah, well..." The man couldn't hide his laughter. "Then I guess she is my girl friend. Isn't that right, all-star?"

        "Leon." You hissed, flashing him a warning look. You wanted nothing more than to wipe that shit-eating grin off his face.

        "Don't mind her. She's just a little shy."

        "That's okay!" The boy threw his arms out excitedly, gesturing to a young girl peeking out from behind the stone perch of the Corviknight statue. "My girl friend's shy, too! That's who I'm getting the autograph for!"

        Leon stood beside you, ruffling the boy's mess of hair approvingly. "Good on you, lil bud. But promise me next time, you'll help Wesley get an autograph from me herself. I'd love to meet her."

        "I will! Thank you!" The boy turned tail and ran back to the girl. "Did ya hear that, Wes? Leon said he wants to meet you next time!"

        When the children were out of earshot, Leon turned to you with that same shit-eating grin. Quickly, you continued down the walkway and followed, quirking a brow at your red cheeks. "So..."

        "Don't." You spat with a glare.

        "Are you my girl friend, all-star?" Leon leaned closer and your cheeks burned hotter. You turned your gaze from him.

        "Just friend is fine."

        You grimaced at the smirk in his voice. "Alright, 'just' friend."

        "Ugh," you threw a hand to your temple, shaking your head, "how do you manage to make it sound worse?"

        You still weren't looking at him and the man fell silent for a moment. When you felt a gentle hand press against your back, you snapped back to Leon in surprise. Smirk gone, he was a safe distance away, but still close enough that you had to force yourself to swallow. He smiled at you kindly, "I'm sorry, I shouldn't tease you."

        Stopping at the front steps of the stadium, you scrambled for a reply. You were thankful the courtyard was mostly empty save for a few lingering League Staff. "No, I don't mind, I just— I don't want people to get the wrong idea, ya know? You endorsed me before we really knew each other, but people might not see it that way if they hear you saying stuff like that."

        "Fair enough." He nodded, then bit back a smirk. "I'll save it for when you actually become my girlfriend."

        "Leon!" You cried, smacking his chest with the back of your hand as your cheeks caught flame. 

        "Sorry!" The man exclaimed good-naturedly, retreating further up the steps. "That was the last one, I promise!"

        "Get in there before I turn that promise into a guarantee!" You snapped back, a smile breaching your cheeks despite yourself.

        "Okay, okay, I'll see you inside. Your seat's Row H, Section 130. Just ask one of the League Staff if you can't find it!" With that, the man broke into the stadium. You shook your head in disbelief, a little annoyed and a little more humored by his utter gall. You'd known he was confident, but he was certainly more brazen than he let on in interviews and talk shows. Was he like this with everyone? His teasing bordered on the line of flirtation, and you weren't sure how to navigate such muddled waters without getting lost yourself. Especially after your... unsavory thought from earlier. Which still meant nothing, by the way.

        You had only just begun to know him and yet, you already knew that man was going to be the death of you.

Chapter Text

Lightning Turns Sawdust Gold - Sleigh Bells

        Today you would become known as 'The Girl Who Ruined the Match.'

        Of course, you did not know this when you stepped into Wyndon Stadium. You were too busy gasping in awe at the lights dazzling your eyes, the music swelling in your ears, the ferocity of the crowd, and the evening chill electrifying the air. You squeezed into your seat in Row H, Section 130, surprised to see just how close you were to the field. A couple of rows ahead of you, braver spectators jittered below the protective dome shielding the stands from the eventual storm of the coming battle, a splash zone of sorts, you presumed. Above you, a handful of voices chanted a ditty you didn't recognize, but caught Leon's name in. You glanced at them and pinched a humored brow at the painted men spelling out the Champion's name. You ducked with a laugh when one of them slung their shirt over your head. Opposite them, a group of young teens cheered Nate's name at a pitch that'd make a Chimecho jealous. 

        Beside you, Dazzle ruffled her pelt and rumbled the bench with a purr, starry-eyed as she stared out at the pitch. A soft shockwave of excitement shot from her paws as she dug her claws into the steel seat. Princess perched halfway on your shoulders to beam at the rest of the crowd. Her tail slapped happily against your face, but you only batted it away with a smile of your own. Your heart was racing too fast to be annoyed. On the pitch, you hadn't paid much attention to the crowd. You were too focused on making the right call, on becoming used to the weight of battle, their cheers tended to become a distant ache in your ears. Being on the other side wasn't something you were used to either; you hadn't been allowed to watch matches when you lived at home. There was a different exhilaration in the sport of the spectator—one you wish you had known sooner.

        "Would'ya look at that!" A voice exclaimed beside you. You turned to look at them, only to follow their gaze to the edge of the field. You gasped when you saw a pair of young men with banners duck beneath the dome and clear the guard rail. The crowd's cheering swelled as others around you took notice of the two streakers. The men clamored their way onto the field; one quickly apprehended into the dirt by swift-footed League Staff while the other dodged the hands of another. He topped the pitch, and when the jumbotron pulled an image of his sweating brow, he thrust the banner over his head. Only a moment later, the stadium resounded with a bitter sound. The banner read in orange sans-serif font:

GOTTA RELEASE THEM ALL.
POKEMON are NOT ours to BATTLE.
JOIN THE FREEDOM FIGHTERS.

       Immediately, the stadium erupted.

        "Great, another Bewear-hugger!"

        "Get off the pitch!"

        "You're ruining Leon's match!"

        "Freedom Fucker!"

        You grimaced, and the person beside you let out an audible scoff, "Absolutely no shame."

        It wasn't long before the two Freedom Fighters were escorted off the pitch, and the crowd's anger was quelled. Still, you could hear the quiet mutterings of those around you, soft rumblings of disbelief at the presence of Freedom Fighters at a Championship match. You could only wonder how the two had managed to get into the stadium in the first place; you figured stadium tickets weren't exactly in their approved budget. It had undoubtedly been a sly move to advertise their cause in a worldwide broadcast, but you doubted they'd made more friends than enemies by appearing. Maybe Tweeter had something to say about it. You reached into your back pocket for your phone before frowning at the flat fabric of your jeans. That's right—you didn't have a phone anymore. You glared at the red culprit leaning over the seats in front of you. Guess you'd just have to enjoy the show for now.

        And enjoy you would. The prematch was over much sooner than you anticipated, but your heart still raced with excitement at the spectacle of cheerleaders, performers, and the ever-goofy Ball Guy jig. There had been an interview, too, and you were surprised when you saw Nate's pre-recorded face on the jumbotron. He'd become much less dusty and much more rugged from his adventure across the region, and the confident upturn of his lip had grown cocky—well warranted considering his current position. He was ready to claim the title of Champion, intending to herald a new era of battling unseen across any region. What that entailed, he left to speculation, but it didn't stop your heart from skipping a beat at his enthusiasm. The jumbotron faded to a black screen. The lights dimmed.

        Then, an announcer took the field. 

        "Welcome, citizens of Galar and those at home, to this year's long-anticipated Championship Cup—the battle to determine who is the strongest in the region. Let's not waste another moment!

        First, the Challenger," a spotlight blazed the darkness, landing on the wheat-haired boy strutting onto the field. His smirking image appeared on the jumbotron as he took position. Above you, the teens from earlier shrieked with joy, "Nate, Challenger #681 of Turffield. Born of humble beginnings. he has emerged victorious over all eight Gym Leaders at record-breaking speed without a single loss! His commanding presence over the battlefield has sent shockwaves through the region. But will he have what it takes to beat the unbeatable?"

        Suddenly, another spotlight illuminated the opposite end of the field. Leon strode with solid, confident steps to his position across from Nate. The announcer continued, "Next, our very own Champion Leon, the man who has never tasted defeat! The defender of our great region, no one would dare forget his bravery in taking down Eternatus and restoring Galar to its rightful glory. Today, he must again defend the title he has carried for the past fifteen years. I have no doubts this will be a match for the history books!"

        "Without further ado, I present to you: The Championship Cup!"

        The audience burst into ear-splitting acclaim, and you cheered alongside them. What you witnessed next was nothing short of a tactical masterpiece. 

        Leon led with his Blade Forme Aegislash and Nate, an Umbreon. The two traded blows, experience quick with each strike. Umbreon had the obvious advantage, but what Aegislash lacked in defense, it made up for in pure vigor. When it fell, Umbreon had taken beating enough to faint to Rhyperior's Megahorn. As the battle raged, your gaze turned to the two men on the field. They exuded confidence, and, even to a mere observer like yourself, you could feel the thirst for victory burning their skin under the overhead lights. You knew you should've been rooting for Leon—he was the reason you were here, after all, and you mostly were. But you couldn't deny the awe you felt each time Nate countered Leon move for move. He never hesitated, never took a moment to think because he didn't have to; he'd already predicted what would happen next. You couldn't imagine a day you could match an opponent with such conviction. 

        Slowly, their teammates dwindled until only Whiscash remained. Dragapult crumpled in the maw of a Stone Edge, the serrated stones a final blow to the prolonged face-off against the previous Bewear's devastating Payback. You hadn't thought the Normal/Fighting pokémon would perform well against Dragapult's Ghost-typing, dismissed it even, but Nate had amazed you with his forethought once again. You sat on the edge of your seat, sucking in a breath as Leon sent out his Charizard. Even from your seat, you could see the sweat shimmering along his forehead. He Gigantimaxed his ace the moment the pokémon's claws touched the pitch, and the Charizard swelled in size in a plume of red light. Its roar shook the stadium walls, vibrated your seat, and you clenched onto Luxio to steady yourself. She, too, trembled on the seat, bristling with excitement. When the dust had finally settled, Nate held out his hand.

        "Whiscash, return!" Nate called. You wrinkled your brow. What was he doing? Whiscash would've been the perfect counter to Leon's Charizard. You leaned forward.

        The answer shocked you. Nate threw out a pokéball, but it wasn't what you expected. Instead of the powerful and experienced pokémon you had grown used to, the one that materialized on the battlefield was anything but battle-ready. It was a little blue and yellow Shellos. You tilted your head at the purple muck that stained the ground beneath her. She fumbled on the pitch, head lowered and tiny dorsals quivering not with anticipation... but fear. It was a subtle difference, but one you recognized immediately. As you watched, the Shellos cried out and looked back at her Trainer with large, wet eyes. When he didn't acknowledge her, she turned back to Gigantimaxed Charizard and cowered beneath his might. Tears dripped down the young Shellos' cheek. Air caught in your throat.

        You remembered this.

        "She… She doesn't want to battle." You whispered beneath your breath. The roaring crowd around you grew deaf to your ears. In silence, you watched Leon call a command, but Nate said nothing. You watched Charizard's jaws rattle with an attack. You watched Shellos close her eyes. Immediate fear surged into your veins. “She doesn’t want to battle!”

        You were out of your seat before you could think. You scrambled down the rows, stomping on trailing feet and ignoring the angry voices that yelled after you. Hugging Dazzle to your chest and Princess quick on your tail, you jumped the guard rail onto the field. You landed hard, but balanced yourself before you could fall, tightening your grip on Dazzle as she squirmed to hold on. A referee gasped behind you, but Princess snapped to him with a curl of her lip. She snarled, and a dark surge of shadow threw the staff against the barrier—it seemed Dark Pulse had come in handy after all. She would keep who she could at bay. Now, you'd just have to make her effort worth it.

        You tore across the field, pumping your legs faster, harder, until they burned from the sheer desperation racing your mind. Dirt and grass flung from your trainers. Dazzle floundered in your arms, digging her claws into your skin to keep hold. She yowled up at you in confusion, but you didn't stop to explain. Hands reached to grab you, as did the calls of alarmed League Staff and the cheering crowd as they witnessed your display. But as flame ignited in Charizard’s jaws and the ground shook with unmatched power, you could only see the little Shellos trembling before you. She was only a few yards away now. You would make it. You had to make it!

        "Dazzle, use Protect!"  Time slowed. You threw the Luxio to the pitch. Dazzle landed and staggered, a blue shield materializing haphazardly before her. You didn't wait to see if she was grounded. Jumping the last couple of meters, you rolled and wrapped yourself around the Shellos. She cried in your arms, orange light alighting in her fearful eyes as you took a breath. When you closed your eyes, time resumed. 

        Your back took the brunt of the heat. Your hair whipped your face as flame and debris scattered the field, skipping the exposed skin Dazzle's shield couldn't protect. It lasted all of a moment, the fire licking the air extinguishing and the stone falling back to the earth, the rumbling the ground underfoot shifting and settling. Through the sharp pangs, you felt the burn of your chest, the fearful air trapped within. You gasped, your heart palpitating with shock and the ache of your body. Although you expected to, relief flooded you knowing you were still alive. Shuddering, you looked down. The Shellos in your arms felt cool and wet—and unharmed. She stared up at you in awe. Carefully, you twisted your head to look at Dazzle. The Luxio winced as her shield faded, but she did not fall. She glanced back at you with an anxious murmur. You only nodded your head, "Good girl, Dazzle. Good girl."

        A referee whistled and fell beside you. He held out his hand to end the match as another hooked your arm to bring you to your feet. Nate was yelling, his words angry and muddled to your ears. Leon came up beside you, his eyes round and his commands to the referee fast and confident. He looked at you for only a moment—a moment enough for you to know you'd made a grave mistake—then ran back to Charizard. As the referee guided you off the field, the bitter sounds of the crowd suddenly met your ears, as did the thrown food you'd ducked just in time to miss. Shellos hid her face in the crook of your arm. Dazzle curled her lip, glaring at the crowd and the items they threw at you. Thievul was nowhere to be seen. Suddenly, a ball of anxiety curdled your stomach. When you looked back, Gigantimaxed Charizard bellowed into the red sky.

        In the lobby, the loiterers were quiet as they gawked at the lot of you. You winced, grumbles and glares and camera flashes burning your skin. You could only imagine what they thought of you—a simple streaker? A Leon stan? A jealous Trainer trying to ruin Nate's chances? Arceus-forbid, a Freedom Fighter! A panicked breath choked your throat, and you tightened your grip on the small pokémon in your arms. It was only when Dazzle pressed herself against you, using her tiny body to guard you against their scrutiny, did you finally catch a breath. Shaking yourself, you looked over your shoulder to distract yourself. You saw the referee retreating to the battlefield and Nate pacing the lobby with an angry strike of his fist at the air. His eyes snapped to yours, and he curled his lip. You quickly turned back to the Shellos cowering in your arms. 

        She trembled against you, blinking at the lobby and squinting spectators around her. She didn't seem to know where she was, making her shiver harder in your grasp. Pity tugged at your heart, and you brought your hand to stroke her head. Instead, the Shellos yelped at your touch. You gasped when she scrambled out of your arms and landed hard on the laminate floor beside Dazzle, leaving a trail of purple muck beneath her. You knelt, reaching a hand to her to help her right herself, but she only jolted away. The young pokémon looked back at you with tearful eyes, ducking her head under your shadow as she crept away like a frightened child. It was painfully obvious she wasn’t ready for a Champion battle—her dorsal fins had barely grown in as if she were fresh from an egg. You reached your hand out to her again, but she curled away further. Your heart split. Just what kind of person was Nate?

        Shellos cried again, eyes widening at something behind you. Before you could turn, a white-knuckled hand seized your shoulder. You struggled against their grip, protesting, but they shoved you to the ground faster than you could shake them. You ate floor, the laminate hard and cold against your chin. The impact shocked your body, then a surge of pain in the middle of your lower lip. Wincing, you touched your lip and blinked at the bit of blood reddening your finger. Your mind reeled at the sight. You could hear the loiterers gasping, their shoes snapping against the floor. Had one of them attacked you? Propping yourself with an elbow, you squinted at the shifting world around you. Nate leered down at you, kept at bay only by the blue Luxio snarling and snapping at his legs. Shellos leaned into your gaze with a cry.

        Nate had attacked you. Closing your eyes, you tried to settle the alarm racing your heart. You hadn't suspected Nate for a violent person. Now, you knew he was more than willing to harm you, and you wouldn't wait for him to sic his ire on Dazzle next. Quickly, you grabbed her pokéball.

        "Dazzle, return!" 

        The Luxio fixed you with an incredulous look, but obeyed in a flash of light. Wiping your mouth, you wobbled to your feet to face the boy. Instead, he shoved you again. You braced yourself against him, stumbling to stay on your feet. His face contorted in disgust. “What the hell did you do that?! Shellos would’ve gotten so much experience from that fight! And I was just about to win!”

        “What was I doing?" You retorted. Thrusting your shoulder, you broke his grip off your arm. "What were you doing? Who throws a pokémon fresh from the egg into a Championship battle?!”

        The boy didn’t relent. He closed the gap between you, throwing his hands in the air, and spat, “I gave her a focus sash before the match, you idiot! She would have been fine! Besides, she's a pokémon for Arceus' sake; this is what they're made for." Suddenly, he paused, screwing his eyes at you. Recognition dawned on him a moment later. "You're the Trainer endorsed by the Champion, aren't you? What, you think just because Leon endorsed you, you're the only one he's supposed to battle? Or was he just too scared of losing he set this whole thing up?”

        "Leon would never do that!" You flared your nose in disbelief.

        “Then what is it?" The boy snarled, advancing on you. "Did you think you were saving her? You tryna be the savior of all Galar, too? All you did was ruin my chances of winning!”

        You stumbled away from him, but stopped short when you felt a small body press against your leg. Glancing down, you saw the Shellos hiding behind your legs. She cowered under Nate's anger, looking between you and him as if fearing he may strike you again. Suddenly, you knew very well just what kind of person Nate was. You snapped your gaze back to the boy, poison lacing your voice as you sneered, “A weakling like you would never have won anyway. I just saved you the embarrassment of losing.”

        Nate staggered for a moment. Then, his brow turned dark and ugly.

        “I’ll show you weak.” The boy grabbed a fistful of your shirt, lifting you to your toes as he thrust his face into yours. He curled his free hand into a fist, the veins of his knuckles pulsating as he raised his arm above his head. You were quick to raise a fist of your own, intent on striking him first and getting some distance. Instead, the referee skidded between the two of you. You dropped to your feet, stumbling to catch yourself against the sudden impact. The Shellos pushed against you to steady your swaying legs.

        “Get him out of my stadium—now!” Leon commanded, striding into the lobby. The Champion's face was rife with anger as he stared down the boy flexing his fists. The man hadn’t looked at you yet.

        "I demand a rematch! I would've won if it weren't for her!" Nate shouted, advancing on the Champion. But the referee stepped into his path. He curled his lip with an oncoming insult. Suddenly, a pair of burly League Staff came up on either side of the boy. They secured his shoulders, urging him away from the lot of you. 

        "What is this?" Nate hissed. "Don't tell me you're kicking me out?! What about her? She started all this!"

        He gestured wildly at you, but the guards only tightened their grip at his protests. After a moment, he settled in their hold, slow realization widening his gaze. The lobby fell silent. Blinking, the boy looked to you, then the guards, then to Leon. Neither moved to his aid or offered him a scrap of sympathy—it wasn't you they were glowering at, but him. His head fell. Then, he laughed a bitter sound, shaking his head as he dipped his hand into his pocket. He retrieved a pokéball.

        “Whatever. This place is full of a bunch of losers, anyway. Shellos, return!” With a whirl of light, the pokéball recalled the Shellos cowering behind your legs. Again, your heart ached for the young pokémon. You hadn't known her for long, but long enough to know she deserved so much better than what Nate had given her. You furrowed your brow a moment later. Instead of retreating to her pokéball, the Shellos cried, seeming to attack the light with her little nubs, and materialized behind you again. She pressed closer to you, a whimper escaping her lips. 

        “What the hell?" Nate looked incredulously at the pokéball before commanding much louder. "Shellos, return!”

        Her refusal was immediate. Instead of light, the ball merely flashed and faded, and the Shellos peered out from behind your leg fearfully. Nate stared back at her, working his jaw as you caught something break in his eyes. He clenched his fist around the pokéball tighter. Suddenly, you flinched when the boy smashed the pokéball against the floor with a yell of frustration and a crack of metal. It bounced against your foot.

        “Oh, I see how it is." Nate spat, and the Shellos fell smaller. "I raise you from an egg, train you and care for you, and this is how you repay me? Well, you know what, Shellos? She’s right! I was a weakling—because of you! So you can just stay here with the rest of them!”

        Instinctively, you stepped in front of the Shellos, your jaw agape. You'd never heard a Trainer yell at their pokémon like that. Even your parents—who never tried to hide their disdain for Dazzle—never raised their voices at her for anything. You couldn’t imagine a day you treated Dazzle the way he did Shellos; it was inconceivable to believe anyone could act this way toward their partner pokémon. What was worse, Nate seemed to show no regret for his words. He continued to glare at the little pokémon hiding behind your legs, and you curled your hand into a fist once more. If he were trying to intimidate her, he'd have to go through you first. Much to your relief, however, the boy finally relented. The guards escorted him from the stadium with little more than a scoff. You relaxed your hand, but quickly met Leon's dark gaze. 

        The man advanced on you.

        “Do you understand how dangerous that was?” He snapped. “I’m all for a champion time, but you could’ve been killed. What even was that? In all my years, I’ve never seen anyone do something so reckless!”

        His anger was tangible, but you couldn’t concentrate on it. Instead, you watched as Shellos slipped from behind your legs and crept to where her Trainer had once been. She sat there momentarily, bending and shivering as if anticipating his shadow over her once more before straightening with a whimper. There was a rising panic in her cries as she looked frantically from her pokéball to the stadium doors, to the wide circle of building around her. Purple slime slowly haloed the young pokémon, and you quickly realized it was just another sign of her distress. Again, Leon spoke, but the only sound to reach your ears was Shellos' sobs. Something within you snapped. Shouldering past the champion, you approached Shellos, and she turned sharply at seeing your shadow. The glint of hope in her wet eyes extinguished immediately upon seeing you.

        You weren't sure how the little pokémon received you. You only knew she had been fearful of Nate, the only Trainer she had ever known; who had hatched, cared for, and trained her in her short time in the world. No one in this world could replace the boy she had imprinted on. But that wasn't your intention. Despite it all, you knew she hoped beyond all hope he might take her back. You understood that pain all too well—and you understood, too, he would only break her heart again. You bent to retrieve the pokéball that lay abandoned beside her. You grimaced when your finger brushed a dent in the metal. Shaking your head, you turned back to the young pokémon. You held out the pokéball to her.

        "Shellos, return." You commanded. The Shellos flinched at the sharpness of your voice, and the light blinked away. No, you couldn't command; it would only serve to frighten her, to remind her of Nate's anger. Carefully, you lowered yourself to her height as you gentled your tone, coaxing instead, "Shellos, return… to me."

       The Shellos gazed at you with wide, shocked eyes, and you wondered if she understood what you were offering. You held out your free palm to her, fluttering your fingers to urge her to you. She crept closer. You smiled and took a step towards her. To your satisfaction, she didn't flinch away, but looked at your outstretched hand with a blink. She crept closer. She was close enough to touch now, but you didn't move to close the distance. Instead, you murmured praise, which seemed to perk the little pokémon. She crept closer. Finally, the tip of your fingers connected with her chest. She tensed under your touch, but, again, didn't flinch away. Thinking a moment, you rubbed the middle of her chest; it was squishy and nowhere near as bony as the Boltund's had been. She melted under your simple caress anyway. You wondered if she had ever been shown affection a day in her life.

        You tried not to frown at the thought. Nate's methods weren't right. It was one thing to be scared of you, a stranger, but no pokémon should ever be scared of their own Trainer. It only made your resolve harden. You'd do all you could to keep her away from Nate; you didn't care if it cost you your endorsement, the respect of your peers, or your dignity. You knew you could give her something better—something she deserved—if she could only trust you. You gazed at her softly, holding out the pokéball once more, and she closed her eyes. You breathed a sigh of relief when she touched her head to her pokéball and slipped inside without a sound. You rolled the ball in your hand, tensing when you noticed Leon in its reflection. The anger on his brow melted, quieter now as he spoke your name. You snapped your gaze from his.

        "Think what you want of me." You murmured. "I'm not sorry."

        The man didn't respond, but stepped closer. He gently touched your shoulder, but you quickly knocked him away.

        "I think…" You started. Emotion choked your throat. "I think I need some time. Alone."

        "Wait... All-star, let's talk about this—"

        You turned your back and strode out of the stadium.

        You found yourself in the park outside the stadium. The sun dipped below a red skyline, bleeding evening light that dazzled the westside of Wyndon Stadium like a pool of molten rose gold. You sat on a bench beneath the warm darkness of a poplar, but chill settled on your skin as you traced your finger along Shellos' yellow dorsal. The little Shellos curled on your lap tightly, snoring and mumbling as if she'd never slept a day in her life. With a Trainer like Nate, you could only imagine she hadn't. She had been so scared when you lifted your hand to her, commanded her into her pokéball. It wasn't natural. Your stomach twisted again at the thought, and you swallowed the tears in your throat. You knew stealing was wrong. But so was forcing your partner to battle, only to abandon them when they flinched under your shadow. No, you wouldn't return Shellos to Nate. You couldn't.

        Just another score to your record, you supposed. If you weren't stealing pokémon, you were ruining matches and making a fool of yourself to all of Galar on live television. You weren't as guarded or as practical as you'd fooled yourself into believing. Creating messes, it seemed, was your true talent. You had done it before, and you had done it again, and that was why you had thrown yourself on a battlefield not meant for you. Except, you didn't have your parents to save you this time. You didn't have a place to hide from the shame of it all, to deflect accountability or blame someone else, or, at the very least, a hand to hold. Oh Arceus, had your parents seen what you had done? How many people had witnessed your stupidity? What would they think of you? Would this act cost you your endorsement? Was Leon still angry with you?

        Immediately, dread numbed your chest, and your fingers rested on Shellos' cold, wet flank. Staring into the skyline, you blinked back the burn in your eyes. Disappointment was an understatement; Leon had been furious with you, and rightfully so. You knew what you had done had been dangerous, but you hadn't felt wrong in the moment. Now, you weren't sure. He hadn't seemed to agree with your actions. You couldn't fault him. You were only sure it wasn't in you to stand by, and this did not make you a hero. Quite the contrary, actually. Leon believed everyone had the potential to be strong. You thought it easier—better even—to surrender to the fear that had pumped your legs across the pitch. Perhaps Shellos could have been strong enough against Charizard. You would never know. The unknown comforted you in this way; you couldn't be wrong if you'd never know if you were right.

        But you couldn't be right either.

        A twig snapped behind you. Jolting, you turned slowly and let out a sigh of relief when you only saw Princess slinking towards you in the dark. She sniffed you, her eyes wide and uncertain, before crawling beneath the bench. You reached down to pet her, and she relaxed into the curl of your hand immediately. You felt a twinge of guilt leaving her behind as you had—everything had happened so fast, you'd lost track of her in the chaos. But the Thievul seemed to forgive you anyway. She licked your thumb as you stroked along her muzzle, threaded your fingers between her whiskers. Princess may have proven difficult in the time you had known her, but after today, you could never say she wasn't loyal. You hadn't even commanded her to protect you. Perhaps it was her way of apologizing for losing your phone, and you smiled softly at the thought. You'd have to make it up to her later.

        "Where'd you go, Princess?" 

        Your blood ran cold. The both of you turned to the sound of the voice as Princess slipped from beneath the bench to meet him, ducking over the crest of the hill. A heartbeat later, you swallowed at Leon's silhouette stepping from the gathering darkness. He seemed to take a step back when he noticed you looking back at him. You couldn't discern his expression from the shadows, but you felt a twinge of anxiety at how he squared his shoulders. The Thievul tiptoed back to her place under the bench. Your heart leapt with renewed fear when Leon followed without a word. Quickly, you turned your gaze to the ground and wiped the wetness from your eyes. Leon slipped beside you on the bench. Neither of you spoke, and you were glad for it. A lump had settled in your throat, thickening the words in your chest like molasses. As the minutes dragged, a nearby Rookidee crooned overhead, and you tried to swallow. 

        "What happened?" Leon said suddenly. Instinctively, you fixed him with round eyes. He was holding his chin, stress evident on his brow, but his tone carried little malice as if he were simply wondering how your day had been. It was strange to see him this way; he had been cracking jokes and coloring your cheeks red with his easy charm only a couple of hours earlier. You turned to the ground as the lamps blinked to life overhead.

        Working your jaw, you started carefully, "I know what I did was dangerous. I get it if I can't be in the Gym Challenge anymore."

        "That's not what I'm asking." Again, you found yourself looking at him. Leon had turned to you with an even gaze and a gentle voice, his features softening under the orange haze of the lamplight. He wasn't relinquishing you of your endorsement as you'd thought. He wasn't angry with you, turning his back on you, or blaming you for what had happened, either. He was merely asking for the truth.

        It struck something inside you. Before you could stop yourself, droplets rolled off your lashes. You wavered, your hand trembling on Shellos' side as you bit your lip against the sob ripping your throat. It was enough to rouse the young pokémon. Immediately, she cooed at you, crawling up your chest to nudge your damp cheeks. She searched your gaze with a shared sadness, and your heart broke at the sight of her round, glossy eyes. You found yourself holding her much too tight, taking solace in how her little nubs curled over your skin. The pokémon didn't struggle against your grip. Instead, she cooed again and nuzzled her horns against your chin. Beneath you, Princess curled her tail around your leg.

        You stayed like that for some time. It was inevitable, and you cried not only for what he was asking, but for all that had led to this moment. Your home, your failed and newly-realized dreams, your inability to be as you were expected, all of it. Your chest was heavy, dark, and growing steadier with each passing second you wept in the night air. It was cathartic. Leon sat beside you in silence, neither moving to comfort you nor retreating to safer ground. Whether this was out of necessity or simple courtesy, the tears drowning your vision were too much to be certain. Still, you took comfort in the warmth of his body next to yours. He was here; it was all you could ever ask of him. You wiped your tears with the back of your sleeve. 

        Sighing, you released Shellos from your embrace and expected her to lay back down. Instead, she rubbed her cheek against yours as if trying to help clean your tear-stained face. The gesture had been sweet, reassuring even, but you found it difficult to smile. What you were about to confess... You didn't deserve her sweetness.

        "I… I did something terrible a long time ago." You began. When Leon said nothing, you continued. "I really hurt someone when I didn't have to."

        You paused, choked on your own words, and found yourself lost in the past. You barely noticed when the bench creaked as Leon finally closed the distance between you, wrapping his arm around you to rub your shoulder. You leaned into him immediately, if not instinctively. The soothing strokes of the man's hand shook you from the memories clouding your mind. Shellos, too, pressed her head to your chest, the coldness of her skin something to focus on. You tried to gather your thoughts. Where were you supposed to start? How could you explain yourself in the face of your own crime? You only took a breath.

        "I killed a pokémon."

Chapter Text

Iron - Woodkid

        Twelve years ago, you had attended Hero's Shield School, an academy as exclusive as it was esteemed.

        Twelve years ago, you'd been a very different person.

        It was well known you had rallied the affections of your peers with your battling skills from a young age. Needless to say, the attention had inflated your ego from just as young; how couldn't it when everyone knew how awesome you were? Well, almost everyone. Ava was a small Alolan girl with white hair and lavender eyes that never left the ground. When she arrived, she'd whispered her name so quietly you'd needed to lean across your desk to catch it over the hiss of the overhead lights. She had transferred to Galar over the summer with her grandfather. "Why?" was a question you had not asked. You only knew she was small and shy, and when she had extended her hand to you in friendship, you'd taken immense pleasure in laughing in her face. Trying to be your friend when she could barely speak her own name? It was pathetic.

        And you would punish her for it.

        It began with little things: you shouldered past her in the hallway, misplaced her books when she wasn't looking, whispered the wrong answer in her ear in class, and stifled a laugh when her cheeks burned with shame. More than once, you were responsible for Ava being assigned yet another detention. More than once, you smirked at her from the doorway as she sat alone in the classroom. You made your disdain for her clear from the start. Still, it didn't deter her from trying to be near you during recess and lunch and study breaks, a gravitational pull you couldn't quite shake, a bug to a flytrap. You understood in a way. Who wouldn't want to be friends with the coolest girl in school? Just as you thought, her desperation was pathetic. You made a show of rolling your eyes and moving away, your friends at your heels. Perhaps you weren't making the message clear.

        One day, you approached her on the playground. Your little Shinx, Dazzle, sat beside you.

        "Hi, Ava," you grinned. The girl flinched, glancing up at you from behind her book. 

        "Oh, uh... hi," she mumbled, her eyes flicking nervously under your stare. You thinned your lips so as not to smirk.

        "Did you hear?"

        "W-What?"

        "Gray and Krissy are dating now," you gestured to Krissy sitting on a bench some distance away. She was looking down at her phone, her face masked by her curtain of brown hair. 

        "Really?" Ava slowly closed her book, looking over at the girl with what you recognized as a glitter of hope.

        "Yeah, Krissy's been in love with them since like, preschool."

        "Awww... Sh... Should I go say something?"

         You bit back the wicked smile threatening to breach your cheeks, "Sure."

        "O-Okay!" Ava scrambled to her feet, and you finally let that wicked smile slip. Krissy was one of your closest friends... And she wasn't dating Gray. You watched from afar as Ava approached the girl.

        "H-Hi, Krissy..." The young girl offered a nervous smile. "Congratulations on you and Gray..."

        Krissy finally looked up, her eyes red and cheeks puffy. Her expression faltered, confusion evident on her face, as she hiccupped, "W-What do y-you mean?"

        Ava winced. "Ah, I just—I heard you and Gray were dating, and I—"

        Immediately, fresh tears watered the girl's eyes. "Are you making fun of me...?"

        "N-No! I thought—"

        "Why are you being mean to me? I don't even talk to you!"

        "But she told me you two were!" Frantically, Ava gestured to you. Again, you bit back a smirk, opting to shake your head as you advanced on the two. Dazzle followed at your heels, curling her tail with satisfaction.

        "What's going on?" You snapped at Ava, slinging an arm around Krissy. The girl sobbed.

        "A-Ava said you told her," she hiccupped, "Gray and I were d-dating!"

        "What?" You furrowed your brow, turning on the white-haired girl with your best scowl. "Why would you say that? Everyone knows Gray asked out Harley yesterday."

        Ava looked back at you in disbelief. "But you said—!"

        "What are you even talking about, Ava? Stop being such a bully!"

        Ava let her arms fall.

        Things were different after that. Ava stopped trying to hang around you, which was for the best—your friends hadn't appreciated her mocking Krissy or her attempt to deflect blame onto you. Quickly, word spread: Ava was a bully and a liar, and no one should talk to her because she made Krissy cry on purpose. The class began to avoid her to whisper about her behind her back. Rumors you hadn't spread reached you in the shadow of the schoolyard. Ava had been trying to sabotage Harley and Gray's relationship because she also had a crush on Gray. Ava hated pokémon, and that's why she didn't have one. Ava was kicked out of her old school for being in a gang. Ava's parents got rid of her for being a problem child, so her grandfather took her in out of pity. Looking back, none had ever been based in reality, but was that ever the point of gossip? If Ava hadn't been alone before, she was now.

        Though, there was one rumor that was partially true. Ava didn't have a pokémon—not at first, at least. 

        When she turned up with one a few weeks later, the class suddenly set aside their hostility for curiosity. It was one you didn't recognize—a Pikipek from the jungle regions of Alola. Ava had introduced him as Pip. He was a funny-looking thing with sleek black-and-white feathers and a head plume the color of rose mallow. He spent his time scouring the playground trees for grubs and berries or perching on Ava's shoulder during recess, sharing his hoard with the young girl. She wasn't the only person he showed off to. Truthfully, Pip wasn't much to look at—at least, not compared to your Shinx—but he was foreign and cute, and the class quickly fawned over the bird pokémon as he crooned and preened and ate his grubs. Even Krissy began spending more time with the girl who had made her cry. Resentment burned your chest.

        Suddenly, Ava became more popular than you. This you couldn't wrap your head around; for as cute as Pip was, it was all he was. Some wanted to battle them, but the two always shied away from the challenge for one reason or another. Others who asked if he could do tricks, and she'd shake her head. Was he a service pokémon? Ava would turn to the little bird pokémon on her shoulder and smile, "No, he's my friend." You rolled your eyes from your lonely spot on the bench. Pip seemed little more than a house pet for the girl. What was so special about that? Dazzle knew Thunderbolt, for Arceus' sake! No pokémon knew such a powerful move so young! You glanced at Dazzle. She whipped her tail, scorn pulling her lip as she stared down the duo on the other end of the playground. Your heart ached for her. More than anything, the two of you wished he would just go away...

        Go away, huh? You perked your head from your folded arms as an idea struck you, that same wicked grin baring your teeth.

        It was difficult to find a time when Pikipek was alone. Ava and Pip shared an unmistakable bond that nearly rivaled yours and Dazzle's. Nearly. But it wouldn't be enough to save him from your clutches. It took little more than a week of careful planning and tiptoeing around the girl's bubble of friends. When the day finally came Ava left his pokéball in her bookbag during recess, you quietly stole him and slipped him in a weather-worn divot between the school's foundation and the ground. The tiny space was enough for you to reach in to grab him, but not enough for him to break from his ball at will. You built a wall of rocks in front of the space for extra measure. Then, as if nothing had happened at all, you returned to your spot on the bench. Ava and her friends played baseball none the wiser in front of you.

        At first, her friends helped her look for him. Then, they slowly floated back to you. Whatever remained of Ava's bubble popped by the end of the week. Rumor spread she hadn't lost him at all—she was just attention-seeking. Come Monday, she was back to reading under the tree, alone, wiping stray tears for her only friend. You and Krissy giggled together on the bench once more, Dazzle purring delightedly on your lap. Life had finally returned to normal. You left him there for weeks. It wasn't like she was using him anyway.

        You don't remember what had convinced you to retrieve him from beneath the school. Perhaps you supposed you couldn't leave him there forever. So one day, you approached Ava on the playground again. You smirked, rolling the pokéball in your palm mockingly. The girl shivered up at you with a parted lip.

        "Looking for something?" you jeered. You tossed the ball into her lap.

        Carefully, Ava popped the button. Pip burst from the pokéball, squawking and winging about. The girl lunged for him, fresh tears trembling in her eyes, and held him tight. When the Pikipek recognized her, he settled into the crook of her neck. Ava turned back to you.

        "How long have you had him?" Suspicion darkened her brow.

        "Dunno," you shrugged. "A few weeks."

        "A... A few weeks?" Suddenly, Ava hardened her jaw, and you laughed at the wobbly way she got to her feet. The girl shook with anger. "You've had him this whole time! You stole him!"

        "Pft, as if I'd want a useless pokémon like him. I just did to you what you did to me."

        "What I did to you? I didn't do anything to you!"

        "You stole my friends," you replied. "So I stole yours."

        "You're a monster," she breathed.

        "Ha! Get over yourself, Ava. Go back to reading your stupid book," you waved her off, triumph glowing in your chest. You moved to leave, but she grabbed your hand and yanked you back.

        "No!" She screamed in your face. You blinked in surprise and tried to take a step back, but the girl clung on tighter. "You've been nothing but cruel and mean to me since I've got here. I'm not letting you get away with it anymore! I... I-"

        "What?" You grinned maliciously. "What're you going to do about it, Ava? Tell me."

        Ava hesitated, her anger melting to uncertainty. Some of your classmates had noticed her outburst and had gathered to watch. Krissy stumbled from out of the crowd. "What's going on?"

        "Ava's giving me a piece of her mind," you laughed. Krissy squinted in confusion at your response.

        "I challenge you!" Ava said suddenly, her voice cracking, "I challenge you to a pokémon battle!"

        You raised a brow in amusement, "You can't be serious." Ava didn't back down, and a chuckle as shocked as it was wicked rattled your jaw, "You are. Alright then, Ava... Let's battle."

        That battle changed the course of your life forever. And yet, you could only recall it in fragments: the stench of singed feathers and Ava sobbing. Your classmates screaming for the teacher. The remnants of a Thunderbolt sparking the ground around Pikipek, silent, unmoving. Shinx's fur slowly bristling with fear. The stiffness of your limbs as a teacher steered you back into the building. The frantic driving of your father as your mother held her head in her hands. Later, the warmth of the Pokécenter so hot against your chilled skin. You leaned into your father's embrace as your mother spoke to one of the nurses. When she turned to the two of you, a graveness darkened her face. Your heart had nearly stopped. Your family unenrolled you from the academy, and you moved to Wedgehurst soon after. No, you didn't remember much of that battle, but you would never forget how your mother had looked at you that night in the Pokécenter.

        Like a monster...

        In the present, you sucked in a long shaky breath, "I was too young to understand back then, but I know I did something to that girl's Pikipek I can't take back. Seeing Shellos out there… I couldn't stop myself. I know that's no excuse, but if I didn't do something and it happened again… I had to. If I'm being honest, I'm not sorry about it either. Maybe I should be, but I'm not, and I can't act like I am."

        You didn't realize you were gripping your arms until you let them fall. Another wave of sobs overtook you, and you choked on your tears. Shellos pressed against you, cooing softly in your lap. Princess had not moved from beneath the bench, but her tail tightened around your ankle with each of your labored breaths. It was then you realized Dazzle had broken from her pokéball. She looked up at you with just as much guilt as you felt. You wanted to reach for her, to reassure her it had never been her fault, but your body was too stricken to move. Leon gave you the time you needed to catch your breath, but you hadn't failed to notice his warmth had moved away from you. You dared not look at him. Around you, a cool night wind whispered through the trees and, with it, Leon's reply.

        "I shouldn't have endorsed you."

        Your eyes widened. His words split your heart, but you couldn't make much of a case for yourself after what you had told him. You swallowed thickly, "I know I'm a bad person-"

        "No." Suddenly, the man took your face in his hand and forced you to face him. Despite the roughness of his palm, your lips parted at the gentle way his eyes glowed down at you in the dark. "No, I didn't mean it like that. Hop and Gloria taught me even the most inexperienced of Trainers could become something great if given a chance. But I mistook your fear for inexperience. You're afraid."

        "I..."

        Leon's hand fell, but you did not turn away. He continued, "You did something bad back then, something that's left you afraid of doing it again. But you're not a bad person. If you were, you wouldn't have given up your dreams for years. You wouldn't have put yourself in danger to protect Shellos. You wouldn't be sitting here right now, admitting what you did. But that doesn't mean you've made things right. You need to take responsibility for what you've done."

        "Leon, you don't think I already know that?" You snapped, bristling at his words, less from anger and more from frustration. You didn't need him to tell you what you had already told yourself for years... Even if he was right. You shook your head, softening your voice, "I know what I did was wrong. I don't know how to make it right."

        The man paused a moment, then sighed, "You're so terrified of hurting others you've hurt yourself and Dazzle in the process. The truth is, you'll never be able to make it up to Ava. But you can make it up to yourself by being a better Trainer. And you're already doing it. I see your potential, and I can see you're different from the girl you were back then. It's time you put trust back in yourself to make the right call—and in Dazzle..." His hand found your shoulder, and your gaze fell in shame. "You can't keep hiding, all-star. You need to take this head-on."

        "It's not that simple, Leon. I… I don't know how."

        "Shellos seems to trust you. And so do I."

        You stifled the sardonic laugh tickling your throat. There was something almost comical in the way he'd said that, as if it were an intrinsic fact of your being, like how many eyes you had or the color of your hair. You turned back to him. "Why would you even endorse someone like me? I'm sure there's plenty of stronger Trainers out there who could carry on your legacy better than me."

        "My legacy?" This time, Leon laughed. "I didn't endorse you to 'carry on my legacy,' all-star, and I'm sorry if I made you think that. I endorsed you because I believe in you and Dazzle. You just needed the chance to see it for yourselves."

        His words hung in the air like the stars in the night sky. You blinked at him in disbelief, at how those same stars twinkled in his amber eyes, and you realized with a jolt he truly meant what he had just told you. You found yourself at a loss for words. The last time someone had believed in you... You couldn't remember. You hadn't thought it possible, not after everything you had done or hadn't done. And now, the most powerful man in the region was telling you he believed in you. Dazzle let out a soft growl and bumped her head against your fingers. Carefully, you rubbed her ear and worked your jaw for a response.

        Leon spoke first, "Listen, I really need to say something. I know we don't know each other too well, but..." He sighed harshly, flexing his hands as if grappling for words. His gaze trailed to the ground in thought. "Today was the first day I really got to know you. And I had a lot of fun. I think you're a great person. Seeing you run out on the pitch like that..." He sucked in a breath, his eyes flashing, and finally, he let his hands fall into his lap. "It was probably the most scared I've ever been in a long time. I don't... I don't want you to think you need to put yourself in danger to make up for bad things you did when you were a kid. You don't deserve that."

        "I…" Your hand on Luxio's head fell to her chin at his confession. You had fun, too—a lot more fun since you couldn't remember when. But it felt insincere to merely spout back what he had said to you. So, you only murmured the first thought that came to mind, "Does this mean I'm not kicked out of the Gym Challenge?"

        The man smiled halfheartedly, glancing back at you, "Not kicked out... But that doesn't mean you're off the hook, either. If I don't do anything, it might give other people... ideas. But we'll deal with that later." Leon's smile widened to something much more earnest. "Actually, I want to congratulate you on your new partner. I don't think Nate's coming back for her, and honestly, I think she's in better hands with you. She's young, but that just leaves you room to grow together."

        You nodded, looking down at the little pokémon in your lap. When she met your gaze, your heart warmed at how her black eyes twinkled with starlight and the distant glare of city nightlife.

        "Got a name in mind?" Leon asked.

        You picked up the Shellos and held her to eye level, feeling for what to call her. Your mother had named Dazzle, and Leon had named Princess, so this would be the first pokémon you would ever name yourself. Had she ever had a name before? You recalled Nate had only called her by Shellos during their battle with Leon. You wanted to get this right. You wanted her to like it just as much as you did. But what? You furrowed your brow in thought. Her shell glowed in the lamplight overhead, muddling some of her markings with a blue sheen. You tilted her forward for a better look, only to giggle when she bumped her wet snout against your nose. She let out a happy coo, squirming her little body in a way that made the yellow stripes of her shell glint and glimmer like the neon lights of the Wyndon skyline. Yes, that felt right. You smiled.

        "You and I are gonna have a big adventure together, Neon." You closed your eyes and touched your nose to hers again. "I hope you're ready."

        Neon squealed, wiggling her nubs excitedly. Suddenly, the world felt that much brighter.

Chapter Text

TIMESINK - Lorn

        Your scene on the battlefield couldn’t go unpunished. You had already assumed this and Leon had told you as much in the park, but it hadn’t stopped the anxious curdling of your belly as he walked you to the nearest hotel outside the city square; better to avoid the reporters and any other slighted fans that might find you. He would be meeting with the Board that night to discuss what would be done with you, quick to assure you your endorsement would not be revoked—not if he had any say in it. Get some sleep, you would hear from him by morning. 

        You closed your eyes, but didn’t sleep.

        Ever faithful, Leon called your room phone at 8 o’clock sharp with your punishment: you were to be suspended. It was the best he could negotiate short of banning you entirely. They needed to make you an example, he’d said, to keep other contestants from pulling the same stunt. Either way, he had kept his promise, and you were grateful to the Champion that, in three days’ time, you could continue your journey. Sure, you couldn’t train, but after the events in the stadium, your girls deserved the reprieve. Besides, there were plenty of things to do in Galar’s magnificent capital... Right?

        You spent day one sightseeing… if sightseeing meant being hounded by journalists staking out for the reappearance of the notorious ‘match-ruiner,’ as you had been coined. At first, you did what you could to ignore them, but reporters proved more ruthless than any battle you’d ever experienced. Instead of victory, they thirsted for a story at your expense, and you came to appreciate there being a sort of victory in a headline. It wasn’t until one had short of tackled you did you reconvene in your hotel room with a better plan: television.

        When had the telly ever steered you wrong? And when would you learn it always had? The moment the screen blinked to life, the remote slipped from your palm in horror. Your face, like a mugshot, plastered on every broadcasting station, talk show, and newsmagazine, stared back at you innocently, ignorantly, mockingly. You almost refused to believe it was you, with those sparkling eyes and toothy grin the hosts slated viciously. What would that cock-a-hoop girl think now that you were the laughingstock of the entire country?

        You were only thankful you didn’t have your phone. You knew you wouldn’t have the willpower not to look, and even less not to cry at whatever you found. Arceus knows what the digital masses had to say about you now that news of your scandal had swept the nation—mostly things they could never get away with airing on daytime TV, you presumed… Not that what the stiff-collared co-host was currently spewing was any better. With a cold, numb hand, you flicked the telly off and tried to find solace in the silence of your room.

        Instead, you found yourself wondering how Leon dealt with this on a daily basis. What was it like living under the microscope of fans and paparazzi and those damn reporters and their stupid headlines? Everyone seemed to have something to say, and felt quite obligated to air their grievances about a stranger no better than schoolyard bullies. Even your appearance, your clothes, or the way you spoke—none of which had anything to do with the matter—had become fair game. If they had simply been gunning for your ego, they had succeeded, and you curled ever smaller in the sheets. You decided ‘fame’ was just another word for ‘hell,’ and you pitied the Champion for anything and everything they had put him through.

        But this was your pity party, so you expelled him from your mind a moment later.

        Ava took his place—Ava, and the sweet little Pikipek you had taken from her. You could see his unmoving body even now, the cold fear in her bellflower eyes, the blood on your hands. Ava had never meant you harm. You knew that, you knew, and yet, you had still tormented her at every turn. And for what? Because she was shy? Because you had been the ‘popular girl’? The reason didn’t matter anymore than why she had wanted to be your friend. Only one simple truth remained: your actions hadn’t been adolescent; they had been diabolical.

        Despite Leon’s noble words, his sentiment was superficial at best, and utterly thoughtless at worst. Being a ‘better person’ wouldn’t set things right. It wouldn’t mend the past or bring Pip back. It would simply unburden you with a fallacy that your past had been absolved of wrongdoing—that you had changed, and that was all that mattered, and not the grave you had dug for another. Leon seemed to think he had imparted some grand wisdom upon you, but his intentions had always been misguided. As had yours, it seems.

        Maybe your parents were right. You didn’t want to entertain the thought, but with little else to keep you company, it had become the loudest voice in the room and, unfortunately, it was making sense. This was exactly what your mother had predicted, what your father had gently warned against. You had made a fool of yourself and had nothing to show for except for some metal and a rag-tag team of pokémon that barely tolerated each other on better days. You hadn’t even bothered to take them out of their pokéballs since last night. For as much as you loved them, you needed this time alone.

        Time to think, mostly. You hadn’t done much of that lately, hadn’t afforded yourself the luxury and, no, battle strategies didn’t count. In hindsight, you should’ve had some inkling this might happen. You couldn’t consolidate the paralysis of twelve years into a single decision that went against every instinct you had come to know. It had been exhilarating in the moment, but now, you saw your actions for what they truly were: careless immaturity. You had thought yourself an adult, sophisticated and mindful, but you had merely grown in body. Maybe, if you had been so mature, this wouldn’t have happened. Maybe you wouldn’t be here at all.

        But what struck you most was the simple fact that… you wanted to be here. Despite everything, you couldn’t bring yourself to regret your choice, and you didn’t believe you would ever take it back if you could. Because this wasn’t about proving your folks wrong or defying the masses or simply winning—this was about you, a lost little girl in a big city, hoping to be more than what the years had made of her. This was the only way you knew how. You wanted to fight, to battle, and Arceus damn it if you didn’t try!

        Still, you couldn’t feel as resolute as you wanted—not enough to lift yourself off this mattress and brave the outside world in any case. It was tiring, being so muddled in your thoughts, and what incentive did you have if you’d just be blinded by flashing lights again? Maybe you could ride this out. People couldn’t stay mad at you forever… You hoped they wouldn’t, at least. So, you stayed in your room until you drifted into a dreamless sleep. You didn’t wake until early morning greyed the window.

        You had finally slept, but, just as before, you didn’t feel rested. But this time, you were hungry, desperately so, and it occurred to you you hadn’t eaten since Leon had taken you to lunch two days ago. How had time slipped from you so easily? You’d been too anxious, didn’t think you could keep anything down if you’d tried. Today, your stomach felt a little more willing. You ordered room service and found some comfort in the onigiri savoring your tongue. At least food didn’t judge you. Though, if it could, maybe it would be turning your stomach out of spite, and you couldn’t say it wasn’t deserved. But you kept your breakfast down and felt better for it. 

        Belly full, you finally managed the strength to lift yourself out of bed and stumble into the shower, warmed the water. You threaded through your hair, jerking your hand back in surprise when something hard bit the skin. Stray debris, rocks, and dirt that had sliced through the air in the stadium dirtied your palm, dribbled along your arm like veins in the brown liquid. You watched it all circle the drain, feeling chilled despite the heat steaming the bathroom. If just one of those pebbles had been a little bigger, a little sharper… 

        You saw blood where the water had been.

        You slammed the shower handle down, white-knuckling it as you breathed in hard through your nose. There is something to be said about fear, or rather, the delaying of it. You had been scared when you ran out onto the pitch. You had been scared when Leon had found you in the park. But nothing could compare to the arrears of terror gripping you now. The gravity of that night rose in you like a Gourgeist and with it, the horrid realization that, if Dazzle’s shield had failed or you had tumbled a meter too far, your bed… may have been a casket for two. Suddenly, the opinions of daytime television meant nothing to you.

        You scrambled out of the shower, wrapped yourself in a towel, and rushed for your bag. Throwing your pokéballs to the floor, your pokémon had only a heartbeat to gather themselves before you seized them in a desperate embrace. Dazzle hugged you back first, her dark mane tickling the underside of your chin as she melted into you. Then, Neon, with her little nubs clinging to what they could of your arm. And finally, Princess, for all her whining and squirming, quietly laid her head onto your lap when the first sob wrecked your body. You didn’t let go for a long time.

        When the tears dried and your cries settled into sniffles, you pulled yourself to your feet and dressed for the day. By now, the sun had breached the skyline, silhouetted the distant birds, and trickled light into your room from behind grey storm clouds. Perhaps the dull day would keep the reporters at bay, and you could finally exchange this stuffy hotel for some fresh air. Lacing your trainers, you called your pokémon to your side. The four of you were long overdue for some quality time.

        Outside, a wet wind whistled down silent streets, shimmering iridescent in the reflection of the shop signs. The journalists and cameras had all gone away, and with them, the clamor of city life. You supposed keeping out of the rain was more important than the latest scoop or some mid-morning shopping. In any case, you pulled your hood over your head and started down the sidewalk, your team at your heels. 

        It was about a fifteen-minute walk from the hotel to the park, and a pleasant one at that. The wind let up, Dazzle and Princess didn’t fight, and those you encountered merely hurried by you to avoid the drizzle. At one point, you glanced over your shoulder at your beloved pokémon, only to frown when you no longer saw Neon among them. You spotted her some meters away, a determined glint in her eye as she tried to keep pace with the lot of you. Chuckling, you backtracked, scooped her up in your arms, and planted a kiss on her snout. She gurgled something of a purr.

        The park was empty when you arrived. Setting Neon in a puddle, you watched fondly as the baby pokémon squealed and splashed in the shallow water. A broken branch peered partway out of the muck beside her. You coaxed it out, gave it a good thwack against the grass to dislodge the mud, before turning to Princess. The Thievul looked up at you, then the stick, and then fluffed her tail excitedly. She barked, lunging for it, but you lifted your arm and threw the stick far and long. It soared into some bushes and Princess dove after it.

        Smiling, you settled on a nearby bench. Dazzle stood where you had left her, gazing back at you with a guarded dejection. But when you patted the space beside you, the blue pokémon was quick to claim your side. She rested her head on your lap, you twined your fingers in her mane, and she purred softly under your touch. From here, you kept vigil over the three, adoring the Luxio’s purrs, and chuckling when Neon splashed water at Princess’ wandering nose. The sight reminded you of your youth, when you and Dazzle played in the pond by your house. She had yipped in much the same way Princess did now. A sigh broke your lips. 

        “What’ve we gotten ourselves into, Daz?” The little Luxio peered up at you curiously. Your hand moved to scratch behind her ear and she leaned into your palm without taking her eyes off you. “Not even halfway through the Challenge and we’ve already made a mess of ourselves. Never thought we’d be the butt end of a joke to an entire country… What do you think Mum and Dad would have to say about all of this?”

        You snorted sardonically. “‘We told you this would happen, but you never listen! We’re always right about everything!’ Guess they were in the end…” You sucked in a breath, raising your gaze to the dark clouds rumbling on the horizon. “But Leon’s right, too, Daz. This all started because I never helped myself. I just… did nothing because it was easier than working to be better. I won’t make that mistake again.” You clenched your fist, your gaze falling to meet the electric eyes flashing in awe at yours. “I can’t give up, Daz. Not again… Not on you.”

        Your own words left you breathless and—in a moment that cracked like lightning in the distance—you realized you had never truly apologized for the position you had forced Luxio in for the past twelve years, how miserable you had let her become. How had she endured it for so long? Then again, how had you— no, enough about you. All you had thought about since your youth was you. It was time you extended that same consideration to… to the only thing you had left to call home.

        “Dazzle, I’m…” You blinked back the burn of tears. “I’m sorry. For everything. I’m sorry I let the past consume me. I’m sorry I was too much of a coward to change. And I’m sorry you were the one who had to suffer for it.” You cupped her cheek in your palm, bringing her forehead to touch yours, and buried your face in the sweet, familiar scent of her fur. “But that ends now. We’re not who we were back then, and we’ll never be those people again.”

        She mrrowed at you and, in the fragile recesses of your mind, a soft voice whispered, Do you promise?

        “I promise,” you replied.

        You returned to the hotel with little fanfare. Herding your pokémon inside, you decided a bath for the dirty lot of them was in order. What you had expected to be a painful endeavor had turned out… rather nice. Neon was a water pokémon, happy to be in her element whether it were muddied park puddles or municipal pumps. Princess took a particular shine to the bubbles that rose and popped between her teeth, the sparkle of her sudsy pelt under the fluorescent bulbs. And, while Dazzle wasn’t one for baths, you stifled a giggle when her lids fluttered and fought against sleep under the warm, steady water. 

        A nap, you decided, was also in order.

        You slipped into pyjamas and tucked yourself beneath the white sheets. Your pokémon joined you, cuddling up to you eagerly and settling quite quickly as the sun crested outside your window. Closing your eyes, you lulled in the warmth of their bodies, the certainty of their presence. Your hand found refuge in their fur, skin, stroking the length of them as if having discovered a priceless treasure in the sanctity of this very moment. As dreams passed over you, you heard the soft croon of a bell somewhere faraway, and knew you had. The day grew dark.

        And then, a knock on your door.

        You peeled yourself from sleep, your mind like tar as you muddled your way to the door. The small bodies you had left in your bed squirmed to life with a chorus of yawns, dropped to the floor to follow you sluggishly. Who could be at your door? You hadn’t requested housekeeping. A hazy image of your parents flickered behind your eyes, but you quickly dismissed it. They wouldn’t know where you were in this city. Certainly the reporters hadn’t found you, had they? It was possible one may have tracked you down from the park, but your mind was still too glazed to truly consider it. You twisted the doorknob. 

        “Leon,” you gasped, suddenly very awake. “Hi!”

        You were surprised by the slow caution in his voice. “Sorry, I know this is unexpected. I just wanted to make sure you were okay. I’ve been trying to check in all day, but… You wouldn’t answer my calls.” Suddenly, you realized what you had mistaken for a bell had actually been the hotel phone breaking through your dreams. Guilt ruddled your cheeks.

        “I was taking a nap,” you replied. “I didn’t hear the hotel phone go off.”

        “I called your cell phone, too.”

        “Oh, that…” Your gaze trailed to Princess currently prying your legs to reach the man on the other side. You pushed her back with your foot. “I lost it on the way to Wyndon. Dropped it from the Taxi.”

        “Oh.”

        “Yeah, sorry, I should’ve told you. I didn’t mean to make you think something had happened.”

        It made sense, after all. What with the reporters and the talk show hosts slandering your name, you’d felt a little like a hound-sicced Nickit—could’ve believed it, too, with the way some of them behaved. It comforted you that Leon seemed to harbor genuine concern for your well-being. But his fretful expression hadn’t changed, and you couldn’t for the life of you understand why. After a bout of silence, the Champion ventured tentatively, “Are you… upset with me?”

        You blinked, grappled with the idea of ever being cross with the kind, generous man before you. You knew it wasn’t, but the thought was just so ridiculous, you almost took it for a joke. He’d done so much for you since this whole thing started. If anything, he should’ve been upset with you for all the trouble you’d caused him—the risk you posed to his career. But your silence seemed to be confirming his fears, and you quickly shook your head.

        “Of course not, Leon! Why would you even think that?”

        “I,” he began, then paused, then sighed. “I don’t know. I guess I just wish I could’ve done more. Convinced the Board to let you keep battling and give you a different punishment or something.”

        “I… What?” You laughed incredulously. “You saved my stupid arse from being booted out of the Gym Challenge, and you think that wasn’t enough?”

        “Well, I’m not exactly happy standing in your way, all-star,” he retorted.

        “Oh, come off it, Leon. I only have myself to blame for what happened. You did everything you could and more,” your voice softened as you caught his gaze, “and I don’t want you thinking I’m not grateful for it.”

        And yet, as you breathed those words, you realized you hadn’t acted very grateful. Sad and scared, yes, but  grateful? You couldn’t even remember if you’d thanked him proper. You’d been so preoccupied with hiding and wallowing in your room during your suspension… But no more.

        “Leon,” you began slowly, “these past few days have taught me to be grateful for a lot of things.” You glanced over your shoulder at the dear friends that awaited you, then back to him, gaze warm, earnest. “If it weren’t for you, I don’t know if I would’ve realized it as quickly as I did. No one has ever believed in me like you have—has wanted me to succeed so badly. And no matter how hard I try, I’ll never be able to repay what you’ve given me. So, thank you, for everything you’ve done, and everything I’m sure you will do.”

        The Champion staggered a moment, wordless as he searched your face. When he finally found his voice again, he rubbed the back of his neck as though he were embarrassed by the recognition of his own goodness. 

        “I guess I did do a lot more than I’m giving myself credit for,” he said. “I’m probably just in my head about things. It’s just been hard since…” He trailed off. And, like the night you met, you saw the flicker of an idea behind his gaze—before he closed his eyes, smiled, and sealed it away, leaving you to wonder if you had seen it at all. “Heh, well, I’m glad you’re doing alright, all-star.”

        No, you hadn’t imagined it. You could fool yourself of many things, but not of the hardness of his jaw. You furrowed your brow. “Are… you okay? It sorta seems like—”

        “Ah, nah, I’m alright, all-star,” Leon waved his hand dismissively, his cheeks straining with another charming smile that should’ve made you feel better. “Sometimes the stress of the Challenge gets to me; probably why I’m all buggered up about this whole thing. Nothing some training can’t sort out.”

        You didn’t reply.

        “Well, I’ll stop faffing around,” he continued. “Soon you’ll be out of here, and back on the road. I can’t wait to see you on the pitch again, all-star.”

        Again, you didn’t reply, but you didn’t need to. The Champion turned from your doorway and strode down the hall, busying himself with his cap in a way that felt… forced. Something wasn’t right. And yet, you watched him go without so much as a goodbye, ignoring every beat of your heart pleading to call his name. Instead, you resigned yourself to the darkness of your room and wondered why you hadn’t done more. You supposed some things would never change.

Chapter Text

Come As You Are - The Naked and Famous

    The first thing you noticed was how collected Leon seemed.

    He stood there by the Taxi, waving you down and smiling. It was a far cry from the wisping smile he’d offered the day before, and you were nearly convinced it may have been genuine this time. Nearly.

    You’d thought to ask him again, to reach out the way he had to you, really, you had. But when you thought about it—and you had thought for as long as the night—you realised he was nothing like you, and that meant something. Leon was a leader, a legend, a battling laureate—everything you’d ever tried to be, and everything you’d ever fallen short of. And where you could collapse and fail and pull yourself together again, he could not afford the same luxury. Too many relied on him, looked up to him, needed him to be alright, so alright he would be, and he would not tell otherwise. Simply, there were things he wouldn't or couldn't tell you, so, you wouldn’t pry into his world. Not unless he invited you to.

    This, you felt, was the least you could do as you met him in the quiet city centre cleared out for your arrival.

    “Morning, then!” You chirped with a smile that was all teeth.

    The second thing you noticed was how his shoulders eased at your easy greeting, and you wondered if he appreciated your ignorance for the night before, if not having to explain himself was one less burden to worry those strong, weary shoulders. You hoped it was, anyway.

    “Today’s the day, all-star! Ready to shine up that third Gym badge?” There was a practiced inflection in the way he spoke that you recognized, but did not acknowledge.

    “You don’t even know. Motostoke won’t know what hit ‘em!”

    “That’s the spirit,” he replied approvingly, offering his hand to help you into the Taxi. You took it and climbed in, and Leon continued, “Arceus knows Kabu needs some young blood to keep him on his toes.”

    You nodded. Kabu, although much younger than the late Opal, was beginning to show his age much as she had, with greying hair and crow’s feet and the stubborn denial he was ever ageing at all. But age had never been congruent with strength in the world of battle. You’d have to bring your all if you were to beat the fiery wise man and his blazing Centiskorch.

    For now, you settled into the Taxi cabin with your bag in your lap, the front flap bulging and round. You had wised up, too, opting to keep your team in their pokéballs this trip around. Motostoke was much further than Hulbury, after all, and you weren’t keen on losing thing or limb to Princess and her unrelenting energy—even if the ride would be admittedly lonelier for it. Leon leaned into the cabin with his arm to the frame, having to look up at you instead of the other way around. There was no vulnerability in his amber gaze now.

    “You should get there before dark,” he explained, “but not before the Gym closes for the night. Use the time to train, get yourself sorted.”

    “You saying I’ve lost my touch?” You stuck out your tongue. “It’s only been three days!”

    He chuckled. “Not in the slightest, all-star, but you have a rookie and you shouldn’t underestimate Kabu. That old bloke would battle the sun if he could. Wouldn't bet a pokén on him losing, either.”

    You knew. Kabu had ended many a Trainer’s journey. You had already decided you would not be one of them—not with Shellos on your side.

    “Trust me,” you flashed your newly-equipped Dynamax band for the first time in days, “I’ll be ready.”

    “Alright,” Leon patted the frame and the Corviknight flashed his shining black wings with a screech. “I’ll see you soon, then. Have a safe flight… and keep out of trouble, won’t you?”

    It felt too soon to joke about your previous blunder. And yet, you found yourself quipping anyway. “No promises!”

    “Atta girl.”

    Leon stepped away as the Taxi rose from the ground. You peered out the window and waved at him until his form was but a dot in the city’s iron sprawl, and it occurred to you how strange it was to see the Champion so small by comparison. You supposed even giants looked little more like specks when they were far enough away. Placing your bag in the empty space beside you, you leaned your head against the seat, and closed your eyes for the trip ahead.

    You’d woken up long before Motostoke Stadium speared the evening sky. Stretching static-stiff limbs, you looked out at the dusk-red city and were glad for the sparse high street below. Fewer people meant fewer eyes, a privilege you’d come to treasure since the televised incident that left you the region’s punching bag. Three days had settled the worst of the aftermath, but that didn’t mean everyone had forgiven you quite yet—not that you felt you needed forgiving. Truthfully, your time away had only strengthened your resolve and no matter of ridicule would ever convince you otherwise. Dangerous? Yes. But wrong? You’d save Shellos again in a heartbeat.

    You wished others understood that. You wished Dazzle and Princess would stop fighting, too, but neither of those things were going to happen anytime soon, so you wished the Taxi would land already instead. You were sorely overdue for a good back click.

    You hopped off the Taxi just before it touched ground, impatiently twisting your spine to and fro until a crackling pop relieved your aching body. You hunched with a satisfied hum. Beside you, the Taxidriver scoffed.

    “Can’t help yourself, can ya?”

    You sighed, prepared for the worst, and glared up at him. “Sorry?”

    “Couldn’t wait to get off before I even parked ‘er. Always gotta be ahead. Can’t be surprised, knowin’ yous.”

    You stood. The man worked to untether his Corviknight and, while he refused to face you, the crowish pokémon scowled enough for the both of them. Unfortunately, you were all too used to human ire, but why was it pokémon were always mad at you, too? Did it even matter? You scoffed, picked up your bag, and stomped towards the Motostoke gates leading to the Wild Area. Leon said you had to train, anyway. At least now you were in the mood to beat something up.

    Most Challengers had moved on by now, whether by defeat or by victory, but the stragglers that remained hadn’t given up just yet. They were in the Wild Area, too, hoping and training to beat Kabu once and for all. Opening the gates, you saw a couple now battling against each other. You watched as one suddenly activated their Dynamax and threw their partner, an Onix, to the field. The Wild Area was one of the few places outside of Gyms pokémon could Dynamax, but you were still surprised to see them so close to the city. The nearby gate guard seemed to agree as he ran over to end the battle before any real damage could be done.

    The pair cleared off without noticing you. You reckoned you still had a bit of luck yet and ventured into the wilds towards the Watchtower Ruins. You weren't particularly sure what your plan was. Of course, you wouldn't fight the wild pokémon, not unless you had more revives in your bag. You'd picked up what you could afford in Wyndon—five in total—and quickly fled when a gaggle of Nate fans recognized you. You grimaced at the memory, and hoped you might avoid another confrontation for as long as possible. Thankfully, most Challengers didn't pick favorites the way fans did. Most would want to battle you for the sole pleasure of beating the infamous match-ruiner.

    You clicked your tongue disapprovingly and continued on.

    Eventually, the stein of ancient stone and moss leaned into view, casting a mighty shadow over your tiny form. You picked your way through the rubble peering out of the grass, anxious of disturbing any historical artifacts you couldn't see in the growing dark. Archaeologists still sifted here, and it would be just like you to destroy their biding prophecies with a careless step or fall. Really, you couldn't afford another mishap this week. You just wanted to battle some Trainers who'd claimed the place as their own—away from the tower, of course.

    You’d never seen the tower this close before. You stood at its lichen-robed throne and marveled at its clawed crown with parted lips, its size rivaling any Gigantimaxed pokémon into insignificance. Suddenly, you remembered Cawley’s story and glanced at the shimmering lake behind you. The shore was some distance from the tower, but when you closed your eyes and imagined it, you could see Cawley just as awed as you were now, and Linnea, young and beautiful, diving into the deep blue waters like a Milotic. You traced your finger along the stone thoughtfully and wondered what other stories might sleep within its crumbling facade.

    But another story was unfolding, for, as you lost yourself to the splendors of days gone by, a familiar face had wandered over and began to speak.

    “Grand, innit?”

    You spooked, but quickly composed yourself. It was only Bunnie, gazing with a smile at the watchtower beside you.

    “Man, are you a sight for sore eyes,” you sighed.

    “Missed ya, proper, Fluffle.” Bunnie looked at you now and you were relieved to find no malice in her steady juniper eyes. “Where'd they have ya holed up all this time?”

    “Some hotel in Wyndon,” you replied. “I don't remember the name.”

    “S’pose that's fair, considerin’.”

    “Yeah.” You swallowed dryly. “I’m surprised you’re still here. Thought you’d be in Hammerlocke by now.”

    “Ya know how it is,” she grumbled. “That old bastard’s tougher than he looks. I was real close the first time, but after the fourth… Ya learn to swallow yer pride. The team needed trainin’. Guess I did, too.”

    “I wish I could’ve been there. Would’ve softened him up for you.” You winked.

    “Yeah, well, ya weren’t,” she retorted and you jolted at the bitterness on her tongue. Bunnie suddenly broke your gaze and, for the slightest of heartbeats, you swore you saw sadness there. “Tried callin’ ya, ya know. I've been cancelled before, but nothin’ like that. Was worried somethin’ happened.”

    You chuckled. “You? Cancelled? For what?”

    “I'm serious,” then, for the first time since meeting her, Bunnie spoke your name with so much heartache and frustration, you flinched away as if she had struck you. It seemed your silence had hurt her far more than she would ever admit—aloud, at least.

    “I'm sorry,” you murmured guiltily, recalling Leon’s own worries for you. “I lost my phone on the way there.”

    “Makes sense.”

    “I would’ve called, really, but I don’t know your number.”

    “I don’t hold it against ya,” she picked up a pebble, examined it, and tossed it towards the lake. “Just wish I’d heard somethin’ sooner, is all.”

    You heaved a sigh. “I wouldn’t blame you if you did.”

    Her voice sharpened. “But I don’t, so stop tryin’ to make this somethin’ it ain’t. I didn’t come here to lecture ya.”

    “Then what are you here for?” You asked much more pointedly than you intended. “I mean, being seen with me can’t be good for your whole,” you gestured at her weakly, “whatever.”

    “This ain’t ‘bout my followers, Fluffle.” Bunnie crossed her arms, screwing her brows. “I ain’t heard from ya in three days and I was sick thinkin’ what might’ve happened after everythin’. Figured that was obvious.”

    You didn’t reply at first. Bunnie had never been an obvious person to you. So, you turned away and said very softly, “I guess I didn't realise you cared about me like that.”

    For a moment, all that passed between you was the whisper of wind catching your hair. Then, Bunnie’s hands seized your shoulders and she forced you to face her. You blinked at her in surprise, at the intensity of her brilliant gaze, and opened your mouth wordlessly

    “I,” she hesitated, “I gotta level with ya, Fluffle. I ain't got so many friends. Not real ones, anyway.” You worked your jaw, but she held up her palm. “I don't need yer sympathies. I gotta keep folk at arm’s length for a reason. Not all of ‘em, ‘course, but the real ones? Yeah, I give a damn ‘bout ‘em. That’s you, Fluffball. Yer not just my rival. Yer my friend, too.”

    At first, you wanted to laugh. Bunnie, your friend? Why would someone like her want to be caught up with someone like you? It was as much your job to make a mess as it was hers to be, well, famous, you supposed. But, when her gaze didn’t falter, when you realised she was more like Leon than she was the spectators or the talk show hosts or the family of yours gorging themselves on your miseries and fears, you saw the truth for what it had been all along: Bunnie was your friend—Arceus, she was your friend! How had you missed it? Tears burned your eyes. You hiccuped as the woman took you into her arms and held on as if you might disappear. No, you’d never disappear again. You’d stay here in her embrace and cry for as long as she allowed.

    You would let your friend cherish you, and cherish her all the more for it.

    Soon, your tears dried and your chest settled and you stood in each other’s arms a heartbeat longer because it felt as natural as the night air on your skin, the moonlight puddling through the pitted patchwork of the watchtower. When you finally parted, Bunnie laughed. “It was for vapin’, by the way.”

    You wiped away a stray tear, smiling in your confusion. “W-What?”

    “What I got cancelled for. Got caught with a vape in the ladies at a beano. Silly, innit?”

    You shook your head, laughing, “Yeah, silly for you, maybe. You might as well inhale glass!”

    “Y’ain’t wrong,” she chuckled, too. “Stopped after that. Guess Tweetermon knew best.”

    “It always does, doesn’t it?”

    Immediately, your shared laughter rose to the night sky and a Pidove winged away in alarm from its nest atop the tower. The both of you jumped at its sudden flight, shared a bug-eyed glance, and laughed anew. Joyful tears sprouted in the corners of your eyes, your belly reeling with painful delight, as you doubled over into the grass alongside Bunnie. You smacked her arm playfully. “It’s not even that funny! Stop making me laugh!”

    “You first, Fluffball!”

    Eventually, the hysteria subsided. You sat with your arms on your knees, Bunnie nestled beside you, and gazed out at the starry lake. Scales shimmered in the moonlight as fish leapt from the dark water and scattered glittering crystal waves, the fireflies drifting just above the surface twirling to avoid them like lanterns on the wind. A cool breeze had picked up and you closed your eyes against it, enjoying the tousle of your hair and the warmth of Bunnie beside you. You knew this moment would only be a fleeting memory soon—a memory etched by ancient stone and moss, recounted as dreams to young strangers in old homes that looked a little too familiar. You could see it now.

    Tonight, this memory, you would carry for a lifetime.