FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Author's Note: This title doesn't have any relation to works of similar temperature ranges. Totes

Disclaimer: Pokémon is copyright of Nintendo, Game Freak, etc. Individual characters are my own imagining, and are not intended to be any part of main cannon / plotline. Individual characters like Aaron, Song, Zin, etc, are my own creations, so please ask before using. Thank you.

Chapter 37: A Dance of Ice and Fire

I stared dumbly upwards, the Gengar from before still attached to my leg and still shivering. From what I didn't know anymore. Fear, confusion, awe? It was honestly anyone's guess at this point. Truth be told, if that was the case, the same could be said for me as well. Why would these four cast their allegiance with me? Are they refusing to side with either side of this current struggle? The more we go, the more complicated things become.

All four Rayquaza stared down at me awaiting my command. Each time they took a deep breath, the air around me swirled with enough force to make me lose my balance. Surprisingly, it didn't smell bad thankfully. Nothing to ruin your day than smelling bad breath.

"Fine." I said. "That's fine. I want to know what's going on, and as much as you know."

All four giants shifted, as if uncomfortable with my demand. None volunteered immediately, and it wore out my very finite patience. I looked towards Mist, who nodded towards me.

"My Master demands that one of you answers his question. Or perhaps you prefer that he forces one of you to answer?" she asked.

"I volunteer."

One of the black Rayquaza spoke, the crisp sounding female. I turned to face her, waiting for her to continue. Apparently talking while I wasn't looking was easy, but as soon as our eyes met she stuttered and stopped whatever she was about to say.

"Spit it out already!" I demanded. "I'm sick and tired of being led around by lies and half-truths!"

"Shard of Arceus, know that we do not mean disrespect." the Rayquaza responded. "We will answer your questions, but please understand, that we fear what you'll choose after knowing what you do not know."

I frowned. "I want this to end." I stated. "I want everyone to stop chasing me. I don't want anyone else to be in danger because of some stupid feud that didn't get settled a long time ago and all these powerful creatures don't have the mental faculties to fucking talk to each other to work out their differences. No, I'll end this, one way or another, that I promise you."

"Even if it ends you?"

I sneered. "I should have been dead a long time ago. For fucks sake, we shouldn't be here, to be honest. After going through everything that I've been through, what's one more?"

"And you aren't afraid?"

I laughed at that. "No. If I die, welp, there you go. Hopefully this shit won't repeat itself, and I'll do whatever spirits do in the Distortion World for a while before coming back. If not, then whatever happens, happens. No use getting your brain twisted in a knot over shit we have no control over."

"You could run." the Rayquaza suggested.

"You could start answering questions instead of telling me what to do." I pointed out. "Running from problems doesn't do shit. It's been... I don't even know how long that this problem's been rotting in the surface. If I can do something about it, and the answers been put on me, and for some reason everyone and their mother wants me dead or holed away, I'm going to find out the answer somehow."

"Master." Mist whispered.

"Very well. I hope that we will be able to satisfy your curiosity."

I nodded, extending my hand towards Mist. She gently took it, letting me guide her towards me. She didn't hide, though, taking hold of my arm and holding herself tightly against my body. The black Rayquaza closed her eyes for a moment before nodding to herself.

"Myself, my sister, and my brothers were the first of our kind. We are the first of our kind that Arceus created. We held a prestige that no other had: we weren't the only ones of our kind at the time of our creation."

That seemed like a weird reason to fight each other in civil war. Before the Rayquaza could continue, I interrupted. "Just to ask, do each of you have a name?"

The Rayquaza shook her head. "We were never named, though we hold dominion over how the winds move. I am control of the west wind, while my sister controls the east wind. My brothers control the northern and southern winds."

"I hope you don't mind if I refer each of you by the wind you control." I said.

West nodded. At least it was something. "Please, continue when you're ready."

After a moment, she continued. "Not too many of the originators complained, though the ones that did fumed at being the only ones of their kind. They demanded from Arceus the ability to create more of their kind, and populate the world that Arceus had created for us. Arceus agreed, so for a time, things were at peace. Slowly, Arceus created more and more life, and not all of them were what you call Pokémon. Eventually, Arceus created your kind.

"Humanity was in its infancy, yet Arceus held your kind above us all, even over His first born. Dialga and Palkia, Arceus first sons were indifferent, as the creation of your race was a speck of dust in the wind compared to what they dealt with. Giratina, on the other hand, grew to love your kind. He was the guardian of the world that Arceus created, and he genuinely cared for the safekeeping of humans. Others did not share his views, though they did not hate your kind. Others did hate that humans were getting special treatment, and demanded that your kind be eradicated from ever existing."

I was shocked to learn that Giratina was on our side all along. So, then, what he said was right all along? I suppose that this solidifies his position. What West said about others being against humanity bothered me.

"Do you know who didn't want humans to exist?" I asked.

West frowned, her face etched in concentration. It didn't take long for her to nod. "Yes, I do, but not all. I remember the Articuno objecting, as well as both Kyogre and Groudon."

Yeah, well, no shit.

"Sister, do not forget about Suicune and-"

"What?!" I demanded, turning around to face East, the other black Rayquaza. "Suicune? Are you sure?"

She looked startled, but nodded. "Yes, I am."

That fact chilled me to the bone. It felt like fate just handed me the shittiest news ever. That couldn't be right! Did the Suicune change sides, then? No, that wasn't right, either. Kyogre mentioned Suicune before Sootopolis disappeared from the map. I closed my eyes in frustration, my head beginning to pound.

"Are you alright?" West asked.

"No, not really." I answered. "Do you have any specific information as to why all the Suicune are against humans?"

"The Suicune take the purity of their lakes and waters with a zeal that borders on fanaticism. When humans began to 'pollute' them, they took it as an offense and began to threaten humans."

"What do you mean by pollute?" I asked. "This was centuries ago."

"From cleaning themselves to throwing stones." West answered. "The Suicune were liberal about their definition of pollution."

"Did Arceus do anything to stop them? It doesn't sound like something he would let go without due reason."

West shook her head. "No. By the time the others knew how the Suicune were treating humans, the fighting had stopped."

"Fighting? You mean when Arceus sacrificed himself?"

"Yes." she answered. "After that, we began to keep check of our own. Giratina took it upon himself to protect your kind from the enmity of the rest of our fellows, and pleaded the rest to help. We did what we could to stem the hatred, but it was never enough. A few understood what they were doing was wrong, but unfortunately that was a very small minority of each species."

"So how they felt then is how they still feel now." I said.

West nodded. "Indeed." she said. "Eons have passed, yet for the most part the same ones that were present then are here now."

"Like yourselves?" I asked.

West nodded again. "Yes. Though we are a unique case, as our children have never questioned our guidance and rules. There have been others, like the Lugia and Ho-oh's, that change rulers every so often when one becomes disatissfied with how things operate."

"But they can."

"Yes, they can. We do not go against the laws that Arceus created. We tell our young that they are more than capable of leading if they can best any of us in battle, as is tradition. When a new victor is declared, they would rise to our position, with all its benefits and responsibilities. If that would happen, we would become a sort of advisor until they adjusted to their new place in life. Then, we would die."

My confusion must have been easy to see on my face. West smiled down at me. "We are ancient, Shard of Arceus. As old as this world. Being what you call a 'legendary' Pokémon, the gift of Arceus was the gift of never-ending life. It is impossible for us to be captured by your devices, unlike others of our kind, and it keeps us alive through the ages. If we are replaced, or we chose to pass the mantle to another that is willing, we would quickly age and perish as the centuries would quickly catch up to us."

"What happens to the recipient when one passes on this role?" I asked. "You mention that it can be voluntary, but also can be earned."

West shivered. "We do not know, since we have never done it ourselves. What we do know, is that the recipient gains access to the memories of all the predecessors. Every word, conversation, decision, and thought becomes theirs until they become another individual."

"Another person?"

"No one that ascends to become the leader of their species is the same individual that was before." West continued. "This paragon, leader, whatever you wish to call it, becomes a new individual. They are shaped by what they are forced to learn and become."

"That sounds horrible! Why would anyone want to do that willingly?" I exclaimed.

She shook her head, the wind matching the Rayquaza's actions by blowing across my hair. "We do not know."

"OK, then give me an educated guess then." I prompted. "You have to at least think of a reason why they would do so, and why Arceus would even have a system like this."

Silence fell around us as the Rayquaza around me shifted in place. The wind picked up around me harshly, responding to what the four around me were feeling. Was this some kind of forbidden topic? I sighed, shaking my head in defeat. These guys are probably strict traditionalists, especially considering that they've been there since the beginning of it all.

Time to rephrase my thoughts. "Do you think that the Suicune may have changed leadership in the time since then? Or have they always hated humans?" I asked.

"To our knowledge, they have always hated humans." West answered. "Even if their paragon has changed, those feelings would most likely continue to be carried over to the next Suicune to take that mantle."

"So, the leader of the Suicune isn't who we found first. Or, if she was, she recently became leader of them." I mused. "Do you know if it takes time to become affected by the previous lives thoughts and memories?"

She shook her head. "We have no idea. Again, it has never happened to us."

I was beginning to feel that not everything was alright here. Could it be that the memories of the previous paragon have consumed all that was left of whoever replaced them? A shiver went down my spine, and not all related to the wind that was billowing all around me. Another thought crossed my mind. Were these four, these paragons of their kind, aligning themselves to me due to some ingrained loyalty to Arceus? Would they answer questions that I demanded, even against their will? What kind of orders would they follow?

"Alright, I think that's enough questions for now. I have a request from you all."

All four Rayquaza leaned down towards me. The wind stopped blowing, held back by the four giants surrounding the tower. The Gengar that grabbed my foot was still holding my foot as if for dear life.

"I need your help. I need to find out exactly what's going on, but first I need to save my friends that are at the foot of your tower. Will you help me?"

They rumbled as one. "As you command, Shard of Arceus."

=======================////////////////////=======================

Flying was still flying, no matter what you were riding. I suppose riding passenger on an airplane is a significant difference than riding on top of a Pokémon, but you're still flying through the air. The oddest thing was, there was no air crashing against me this time. It was as if West was deliberately making sure that I wasn't uncomfortable. I would have mentioned that it wouldn't have bothered me if I wasn't paying more attention to what was happening on the ground.

How long were we gone? Perhaps the Pokémon Rangers of Johto work at an insane level of efficiency. Given the example from Jon, perhaps they all do to some degree. Since disappearing into the Distortion World and coming back, it was enough time for them to set up a base of operations at the foot of the Sky Pillar. The first thought was how come no one has spotted us yet. There were clearly a few Pokémon and Rangers looking skyward, as if expecting us to come from on high. I suppose we would be above the clouds. Were they using their powers to allow us to look through them, like a one-way mirror? I don't know, and it didn't feel prudent to voice my thoughts right now. If I gave us away, it would be much harder to find Joy.

I remembered her scream before we ascended the tower. What were they doing to her? Did they hit her?! Would they lower themselves to physically harm Joy? To be fair, I wasn't sure what they would do. Are the Rangers that desperate for me that they are willing to harm another to get to me? The thought of that fat fucking shit bastard even TOUCHING Joy made my skin crawl and my blood boil. What about our Pokémon? Would they interrogate them, as well? If they didn't harm Joy, what was it that made her scream so loudly that I could hear it inside the Sky Pillar?

To be fair, I didn't want to know. I wasn't sure how I would react to that kind of information. One thing was clear: my goal was to get Joy and everyone out of this mess that I've dragged them into. I don't know what I'll do about Jon.

"Master." Mist called. "Please do not give into despair."

Despair? No, the only thing I felt right now was anger. If anything was done to Joy, her Pokémon, or mine, I'm not quite sure what I would do. The only thing I do know is that it wouldn't be pretty for however got in my way. The ghost inside of me shivered.

The other Rayquaza circled about, occasionally passing by and muttering to one another as they passed by each other. West translated anything that I needed to hear. I already had decided that we would attack at soon as their guard would be at their lowest. Thankfully, that would be soon enough. As time went on, less Rangers and their Pokémon walked outside. There were a couple of sentries in odd spots here and there, some making patrols between the tents while others stayed in the same spots as if to guard it from outside attack.

I could hardly contain my giddiness. Everything was working out pretty well. We just had to go in, get everything, wreck their day, and get out. A simple plan, nothing complicated.

"Master, it is late." Mist relayed to me. "You should rest before we do this."

"Why?" I asked aloud. "Why should I wait? The longer we wait, the longer the ones I love suffer!"

"We don't know that!" Mist shouted back. "I do not believe that Jon would let Joy be hurt, even if it was a direct order! They wouldn't get anything out of that!"

"It doesn't matter." I said. "It's also possible that they wouldn't let Jon have any say in this operation due to him being close to us. No. If anything, he's in as much danger as Joy is."

"Shard, there's some commotion on the ground." West whispered. "And please, keep your voice under control. They may still be able to hear us."

I nodded, chastising myself for letting myself get worked up. My thoughts had to stay on the plan. Nothing else mattered right now except getting everyone out alive and safe.

Jon was being flanked by a four other Rangers in full gear. I didn't know if he was without his Pokémon, but it was a safe bet to say that he wasn't. Walking ahead of Jon and his guard were two other Rangers. What were they doing? They were in the middle of their camp. No one was carrying any light, though the light of the moon didn't make that an issue.

The entire group came to a halt. The Rangers surrounding Jon grabbed hold of his hands, making sure that he didn't move. The other two moved towards him. Jon grunted loudly suddenly. I assume that he just got punched.

"That's for lying. You'd better start telling the truth, Jon. I'd hate to tell the boss that you keep refusing to help."

"I'm not lying!" Jon shouted. "I told you all I know! He came here, and he doesn't have any flying Pokémon on him! Joy had all of his Pokémon on her!"

Another grunt, louder this time and accompanied by laughter. "You shouldn't be protecting someone that abandoned you so easily." someone else said. "Come on, man, you can tell me what really happened. Did the kid cock-block you? That girl is pretty hot."

The other Rangers laughed as Jon struggled against their grip. I wanted to go down there and rip each of them a new asshole. All I needed to know was where they were keeping Joy and everyone else. As soon as I figured that out, none of these fuckers were making it out alive if I had a say in it. An uncomfortable feeling welled inside of my chest as Mist shuffled about. I ignored the feeling, paying attention to what was going down on the ground.

"You can come out clean with us. We won't say a thing to the boss about the girl." one of the Rangers, turning to face one of the tents that were behind him. "I'll have to go check on her again. Maybe she's up for some fun."

Oh fuck no. My jaw was beginning to ache. How long have I had it so tense? Pain flew from my arms as my nails dug into my palms. I ignored it all, focusing on what was going on.

"Where did you move the Pokémon?" Jon asked.

"Wouldn't you like to know?" someone laughed. "What'chu gonna do? Make some heroic rescue and fly off with that bitch? Maybe hope that she cures your blue balls, buddy boy?"

Jon laughed. "Bet she'd kick your nuts in if you said that to her face. Oh wait, you're a little Pidgey-shit to say that to her. My mistake. You're too pussy whipped by your girlfriend to think any different."

"Why you!"

All the Rangers jumped on Jon and began to pummel him down without mercy. I wanted to jump down there and help him! But if we did, we'd blow our only cover, and we didn't know where everyone was! I forced myself to look around, hoping for a clue as to where our Pokémon might be. My ears, however, refused to stop listening to what was happening to Jon. I could hear every shout and groan coming from that beating that was happening.

"Alright! Settle down, you idiots. Everyone's got to keep their strength up. Besides, it doesn't look good to be stooping to this guys level."

My skin crawled at that voice. It was Jon's boss. Or, I suppose it was previous boss? I don't think another living being would openly degrade someone under his command like this. No, this piece of filth doesn't deserve to be called human by this point.

As the other goons backed away from Jon as the walking ball of lard stepped towards my friend. "You just don't know when to give up, do you?" he asked. "What are you trying to prove?"

"That we're better than this!" Jon yelled. "We're better than giving up and surrendering to every little demand! We should be protecting him, not feeding him to the Articuno as a frozen meal!"

"Oh, do tell. Please, remind me how we're supposed to be better than this, when you're the one that called us to let us know where he was."

Well, there is that. Why did he call them? He knew that they were looking for me, and to turn me in to the Articuno. I was actually curious to what Jon had to say about that.

"Because I thought you were bluffing." Jon answered. "I was under the impression that you were going with the motion, but you wanted to help him. I was under the impression that the fucking Rangers are there to help people in need!"

"The kid is crazy. Not only does he think that he's some part of some grand scheme, other Pokémon want him for their own purposes. On top of that, he's a sexual deviant if what the mind readers over there say is true."

"Where?" he asked.

The tub of lard jabbed a fat thumb to a lone tent away from the rest. "Aren't you just precious. They're all over there, with that girl. They make some interesting noises when threatened."

That's all I needed to know. I turned my attention to West. "Are we ready?"

"Our children are ready to attack. Give us the signal."

"I want every tent searched anyway. Your children all know what Joy looks like thanks to Mist. Rescue her and our Pokémon, then get out of here!"

The clouds parted immediately as all the Rayquaza in the sky roared as one. The air vibrated around me, my own voice joining the roars of the dragons in the sky surrounding me. West dove straight down towards Jon. The Rangers surrounding him made the wise move to get out of the way. As West aligned herself against the ground, we faced the poor excuse of a human.

I ignored him, however, focusing on Jon. He looked surprised. I grinned.

"Long time no see." I said. "Need a hand?"

"What in the world-!?"

"Sorry, fat head!" I said, pulling Jon up on top of West. "We don't have time to deal with your stupidity. Frankly, no one should."

"Shard, we have rescued everyone that was being held against their will here." West replied. "Are we ready?"

Well, that was fast. "Jon, do you have your Pokémon?" I asked, turning to face him. He shook his head.

"Who then?"

"I do, kid."

I glared at Jon's boss. "At the end of the day, you deal with me. You think that you can just-"

"Actually, yeah, I do. In fact, I already did. All that's left is you. West, glab him."

The Rayquaza obeyed, grabbing the human with one of her claws. As she did so, Mist came out of my body and entered his to stop any of his struggling. He has much worse things to fight against now.

"What do you wish of me, Shard?" West asked.

"Hold him for now. Make sure he doesn't hurt himself. Get rid of that jacket, though. I want to know if he has Jon's Pokémon on him."

"Why are you here?" Jon asked.

"Shut up right now." I snarled back.

"Master."

I turned back to Mist, seeing her out of the fat slugs body and hovering with a belt with Pokéballs attached. She floated over to us, handing the belt to Jon. "Please make sure that they are all there. I searched, but all his memories told me that he had them all here."

Jon looked over each sphere, nodding after a moment. "They're all here."

The surrounding Rangers had organized. "Let go of our boss, kid!"

"You heard the man, West. Let him go."

He fell rapidly, though a couple of Rangers caught him before he hit the ground. The ones that were flattened by the big fat assed man groaned. I didn't bother feeling any sympathy to them.

"Alright, West, now we're ready." I said, nodding to the Rayquaza.

"And where do you think you're headed?"

The Rangers had us all surrounded. More than one Ranger had some very mean looking Pokémon. There was a Machamp holding four boulders with its muscular arms. I laughed.

"What are you going to do? Scare me into submission?" I demanded. "Oh no, whatever shall I do?"

"Shut up! You'll pay what you did to our boss!"

"Sure, but I'm going to ask you a better question. Who's going to protect you while you're protecting your boss?"

"We have you surrounded!"

I laughed and pointed behind him. "Please, shithead. I have _you_surrounded. I don't know how you completely forgot that there are Rayquaza destroying your pathetic excuse of a base, and you're threatening me, the Shard of Arceus, with an army at his command? And, by the way, have you looked up recently? Because you really should."

Slowly, the Rangers and their Pokémon looked up. The Machamp dropped the boulders it was holding. I laughed at their reactions.

"What were you people expecting?" I asked. "Seriously, did you think I came here alone? Now that you're beginning to understand the situation you all are in, I suggest you shut your mouths and listen.

"I'm done with all you with shit for brains. Hopefully, you'll never see me again. Arceus aid you if we do. Don't die to frostbite now until this is all over."

"Wait!"

What now. "What do you want?"

"What about the people that are suffering because of the Articuno?!" the Ranger demanded. "What are you going to do?"

I rolled my eyes. "Finish something that apparently even the gods can't handle. A civil discussion."

With that, I nodded to West. "We're done here. Let's go."

"Yes, Shard." West answered.

Mist entered my body as we began lifting into the atmosphere. I honestly don't know how high we went. It didn't matter, either. Though there's something impressive about seeing so many Rayquaza waiting for us. The sea of green and black greeted us with rumbles and growls. Some of the Rayquaza spoke to me directly as we passed, as if happy to be helping. Others seemed to be worried about our decision and wanted to know why I asked of them what I did.

Jon let me go so I could move. Walking up towards my rides head, I stood in front of the gathered Rayquaza. For a moment, I was a bit intimidated. I then remembered what I was doing, why I was doing this for.

"You ask of me why I'm doing this, why I rescued these two." I stated, sweeping my hand behind me. "These two humans are important to me. They both helped me reach where I am now. I wasn't going to turn my back on the two people in the world that helped me when I first began my journey out of my home.

"In addition to that, there are Pokémon that are taken from their trainers and possibly questioned for my location. My Pokémon arent tools to be discarded. I love them. They have all helped me, and have given up everything to aid me. I wasn't going to abandon them to that madman down there.

"I want this whole stupid conflict that the original beings of this world have and don't have the civility to bring to an end. Humans are caught in the middle of it all, and we're not at fault! My life has been threatened almost since day one of my adventure outside my house. Ever since then, there hasn't been a day that it hasn't been about doing _something_to end this debacle. With your help, I can do that. Will you please help me finish this?"

The Rayquaza seemed to come to agreement quickly. Roars filled the air, buffeting me. West nodded, making me lose my footing a little.

"The Rayquaza stand with you, Shard of Arceus." she replied. "What is your command?"

"Get us somewhere safe. Somewhere that's away from prying eyes and as far as humans have been."

"It shall be done."

I went back to Jon. His confused look would have to wait. I just wanted to sleep. He wasn't having none of it, though. I ignored his look though, and leaned forward against West's scales. At least her back was warm.

"Where are we going?" he asked.

"Ask West." I answered with a shrug. "All I want is to be away from everything for a moment. We need to make a plan to finish this, but we need more information. Hopefully, my ideas won't blow up so soon."

"What are you talking about?!" he demanded. "And where did you disappear to?"

"What do you mean?"

"Do you have any idea how long you've been gone?"

I shrugged again. "No." I answered. "Wasn't aware that I was gone for long. Haven't paid attention to the clock recently."

"When did you leave Joy at the base of the Sky Pillar?" he asked.

"Yesterday." I answered, sitting up straight. It wasn't like Jon was going to stop asking questions.

"You mean yesterday a week ago." he said. "You've been gone for a week!"

I shrugged. "I was? I haven't opened my Pokédex in a while. Doesn't feel any different."

"Where were you?" he asked.

My imagination brought the image of Spirit's bloodied body to the forefront of my mind. "Somewhere you wouldn't ever want to go, I think."

Maybe it was how I said it, but it made Jon stop asking questions. "I'd like to have a straight answer someday."

"Someday." I agreed. "Right now, I'm going to listen to the ghost in my head and actually sleep. Maybe that's why she was so insistent before."

I leaned down again, closing my eyes and forcing myself to not think of what has recently happened. I failed miserably, my mind refusing to stop analyzing or thinking about everything. It wasn't until Mist stepped in and began to do something that my thoughts slowed down.

====================//////////////////////////========================

Something wet was pressed against my skin. I squirmed away from it, only for whatever it was to follow me. My legs were cold, but my back felt like it was on fire. I opened my eyes, a Lucario looking down at me. Something wet landed on my face.

"He's awake!"

A loud bark startled me as my body was handled roughly. I groaned under the intrusive touches, but it quickly stopped. Rubbing my eyes and yawning didn't help much to improve my comprehension of my surroundings. It was through blurry vision that Mist floated in front of me. her back was turned, facing whoever it was. I wasn't entirely sure just yet, though I had an inclination to who it was. There was something sharp poking at my back.

"Baast?" I asked. My voice sounded weird.

"Master." she responded. My thoughts were still slow. Her voice sounded strange to me.

"Your chest spike is poking at my back." I said with a shrug. "Just don't hurt me with it."

Her grip loosened slightly, but didn't completely let me go. The Lucario's paws rested on my shoulders. A black shape entered my vision, bringing with it a warmth that bordered on uncomfortable.

"How long did you plan on sleeping?!" Zin demanded. "You had us all worried about you! And where were you anyway?"

"Stop it, Zin!" Song said. "Give Master some time to come back to us."

A gust of cold air blew past, waking me up immediately. The trees were pines, and snow was beginning to pile on their branches. Where did the Rayquaza take us? I suppose that I did say something about not being reached easily by humans. It looks like they took my request seriously.

Idle thought: someone changed my clothes when I was asleep. I was not wearing a long sleeved shirt to last my knowledge. I wanted to ask who did it, but I was probably better not knowing. There were things I was better off not worrying about.

I rubbed my eyes, forcing myself to focus on my surroundings. Everyones face was looking at me. A brief moment of panic passed, as names didn't connect to each individual. I had to concentrate for a moment. Why was something so simple be the first thing that disappears from memory?

"I'm not sure how to explain myself, Zin." I responded finally.

"Talk us through it. What happened that you gave us away and didn't take us with you!" the Houndoom snarled.

I was taken aback by her ruthlessness. Shaking my head, perhaps it was better to explain everything. So, I did. Every detail that I could remember, from Jon's news of my newly earned bounty, Giratina's 'aid', and what transpired inside the Distortion World. As I spoke, the color around me seemed to bleed out. The trees were still green, just less lively. The snow looked like a dull gray. I continued on automatic, doing my best not to leave anything out.

"So, what now?" Zin asked. "Now that Ho-Oh's back. Are we done? Is it over?"

I laughed. It was the kind that someone would make when they hear something wistful and the other person doesn't quite realize what they said. I stopped myself when Zin began growling at me.

"No. No, we're not done. For all I know, all we did was finally set everything in motion." I answered.

"Then why the fuck did we do all that!?" Zin demanded.

I shrugged. "I don't know. Life's not fair, you know."

Zin growled at me. I shrugged again. "Zin, I have no idea what to expect from here on out. To be honest, I haven't known what to expect ever since I left my house. How can I answer your question when I don't even know myself?"

No one had a response to that. Baast tightened her hold on me, but didn't say anything. It felt like whatever was keeping me going was being snuffed out. I was only needed because of this stupid part of me that wasn't part of me. It felt like I was a tool, to be used and eventually discarded like all the other pieces of Arceus. If this succeeds, what then?

Iolanthe stepped forward. Her tentacles pulled me away from Baast's hold on me. She didn't say anything as my face aligned with hers. My head rested on her shoulder, the beacon in her chest pulsing brightly. I held her tightly, closing my eyes and wishing that it all just went away.

"I cannot take you away from your troubles, Master, but I can help you." Iolanthe said. "That is why we are here, to aid you."

I pulled away from her shoulder. "Yes, that's true. And that's why you're all leaving."

Io dropped me. I was glad to see that my reflexes were present. My feet and legs weren't happy with it, however.

"What do you mean!? Explain!" Zin demanded.

"After seeing Spirit again, I get that you all have been in danger basically since we were attacked by Darkrai in Celestic Town. I needed you then, and me being a selfish dick I let you all stay in danger. As soon as I have a plan, I'm going to insist that you all either stay here, or go on your own paths. It's too dangerous staying with me, and I'm not going to have someone else die for me again."

"Master, I-"

"NO!" I shouted. "No ifs, ands, or buts! I don't deserve any of this, but none of you should be forced to be part of my fate. You're all staying here, and that's final, dammit!"

"I want to know what you'll do if we do not agree with you, Master." Baast said smugly. "Are you going to force us?"

I turned around towards the Lucario. "I can give you back to Jon." I said. "I can let you all go through my Pokédex and then break the damn thing. Take your pick. What would you like me to do?"

She stared at me, not breaking eye contact. "The only reason I haven't done this is that they're probably tracking everything I do with my Pokédex. But I'm willing to take that risk of being found one more time if it means seeing you never being in danger because of me."

"I'm calling your bluff." Baast said smugly. "I don't think you'll do it."

"The only reason I'm not doing it right now is because I can't risk getting caught." I pointed out. "As soon as I figure out what to do next, you and the rest are getting out of here."

"And how do you plan on that?"

I laughed. "Simple. I'll ask the Rayquaza to take you somewhere that you won't cause problems."

The wind picked up around us. I didn't bother looking around. West's body surrounded us soon enough, the Rayquaza leaning down towards us.

"Shard, do you have need of me?" she asked.

"No, but you came just in time." I said. "I wanted to talk to you and the others about what to do next."

"Hey, what about us?!" Zin demanded.

"I already told you." I said. "None of you are coming, and that is final!"

Baast grabbed hold of my right arm. "No."

"Let me go." I said, turning towards the Lucario.

"Is that an order?" she asked, narrowing her eyes.

"YeOUCH!"

Zin bit me! Fuck! Arceus fucking shit! It felt like a fireball was burning itself through my bones! I struggled against the Lucario's grip, only to be grabbed by someone else. Baast's entire body blurred, as did everything else that wasn't me. My feet weren't on the ground, though thankfully it wasn't anything serious. I looked around, trying to get my bearings. I was still in the mountains, but I couldn't tell where.

"What's this all about, Iolanthe?" I asked.

I didn't bother looking behind me. She was somewhere nearby. At least, I wanted to believe that. She could have just sent me out here to die. That's fine, too. I rolled my pants up, checking on where Zin bit me. There was very little blood, thankfully, but the entire injury felt like a fireplace poker was pressed against my skin. Was this what they called the Houndoom's mark? I shrugged, deciding that it wasn't that big of a deal for now.

"And where do you think you're headed?" Iolanthe asked.

"Was pretty sure you wouldn't just drop me off in the middle of nowhere all by my lonesome." I said. "What's your plan, Io?"

"I want to speak with you, without distractions."

"Good luck with that." I said, pointing at my foot. "As long as Zin's bite doesn't hurt, I'll be fine."

"What do you mean?"

"Houndoom bites are permanent." I said. "They burn every now and then. It's to remind the victim that they have a Houndoom chasing them, possibly for the rest of their lives. Accounts vary in credibility, though experiencing it first-hand pretty much confirms everything I've heard of them."

"Why did she bite you?"

"Fuck if I know." I said with a shrug. "You're better off asking her. Though, my guess is to remind me of how much I need her, and vice versa."

"So, you do admit in needing our help."

I rolled my eyes. "Look, I'm not stupid." I said, exasperated. "Sure, I might not have explained myself well, but I shouldn't have to. You all should just go home, anywhere else than be with me."

"Right now, anywhere else in the world would be just as dangerous." Io pointed out. "The other legendary Pokémon are putting innocents at risk to find you."

"Damned if you do, damned if you don't. Can't I just get a damn break?"

"We can protect you." Io insisted.

"Against what?" I pointed out. "Because of being next to me, you've all been exposed to death. Hell, you all died at one point, or don't you remember that."

"We've all chosen to be here with you, Master." she countered. "You have not forced us at all against our wishes to be here. We are here because we wish to be."

"Except you."

"What?"

"Why are you here?" I asked. "I knew everyone, except Zin, directly from the Pokémon Center in Solaceon Town. Even then, Song and the others knew Zin since she was a wild Houndoom in the area. Baast doesn't count, I suppose, since she was in Jon's team but I guess that's a different matter. The point is, you have nothing tying yourself to me other than by your own will. Other than learning about humans, why are you here?"

She didn't answer immediately. I continued after a moments silence. "Here's a wild and crazy idea. Pretty sure this is as off the wall as I can get, but since things are as crazy as they are, anything by now is possible. I think that you're attracted to the part of me that isn't Aaron. You want to know what makes me tick, and that's finding out why I'm so different than just about every other human being in this world. I'll even go a step further and say that everyone is in the same boat as you. No one really loves me. Nothing is about me anymore. It's all about this stupid piece of Arceus that's stuck in me."

"Do you truly believe that?" she asked.

I stopped for a moment. Shrugging, I responded. "No, not really. That is to say, I don't want to believe that."

"Then why?"

I laughed. "Teasing?" I shook my head. "I'm scared shitless every day. I just came back from the Giratina's realm and brought back Ho-Oh. I saw Spirit, in all her mutilated glory in front of me. Mist almost died for me, so Ho-Oh's feather wouldn't be lost in the Distortion World. I'm just sick and fucking tired of seeing everyone get hurt, or die, because of me. And what do I do? Sit with my thumb up my ass."

"Tell me, what can you do to fight against the Pokémon willing to hurt and kill you on your own?"

I remained silent. To be honest, there wasn't an answer to that. I'm screwed without any Pokémon, but I don't want anyone else to be hurt anymore. Though that begs the question as to why I'm willing to let the Rayquaza take the brunt of the attacks, but not risk my own Pokémon. It's pretty obvious, I suppose. I don't know any of the Rayquaza personally. There isn't any emotional attachment to them. They're really just here because they want this conflict to end, just as I do.

"Will you rethink what you said?" Io asked.

I sighed. "The truth doesn't stop me from thinking that putting you all in danger is a bad call."

"We understand that, Master. We all do. Even I. Besides, I remember that you promised me something important."

I felt my cheeks warm up at that. I suppose I did say something or another. My mouth opened to say something, but Iolanthe spoke first.

"I feel that it's important to remember who we are, and not forget the promises we made to another. I also want to show you how much you mean to me, Master, if you allow me to."

That jarred me out of my current predicament. "What are you planning?" I asked.

"I intend to become intimate with you, like you promised." she said. "I want you to show me how you have bonded with your Pokémon."

"Out here, in the middle of nowhere?" I asked. "It could start snowing for all I know."

Iolanthe slowly approached me, but with every step she took I took one back. I don't know if I was ready at this moment to be intimate. Something stopped me from moving backwards. Before I could turn my body, Io was on top of me. Her grasp on me was gentle, but unyielding. I pulled half-heartedly, trying to get out of her grasp. Instead, she pulled me closer, holding me tightly against her chest. She pushed me against whatever was behind me. It felt smooth against my back, so it was probably some kind of rock. Whatever it was, it was solid.

"Io."

"Yes?" she asked, her eyes looking straight at me.

Her eyes held my tongue. They were searching for something. Something that I could give her, perhaps? I brought my hands to her cheeks, feeling the smoothness of her skin and face. She leaned down, pressing her face against mine. My lips pressed against a smooth surface, but it didn't stop me from holding her in place. Her eyes slowly closed as her grip loosened around my body. Her tentacles didn't go away entirely, but they were began to move about my body. One held the back of my head, running through my hair.

Shivers ran through my body as more of her touches went under my shirt. The sound of fabric tearing reached my ears. Io pulled away from me for a moment, her face having a thin trail of saliva were my lips were. Her eyes focused on my body next, her touches exploring my body. Much to my surprise, it was gentle and curious. One of my hands held onto her body as I did my best not to shiver at her touches.

I felt something grab onto my pants. My other hand touched her tentacles and her movements stopped.

"I don't think that ripping my pants off would be a good idea." I said with a grin.

She didn't react outwardly, but at least she didn't just rip off my pants regardless. The wind chilled my blood, but I focused on Io. A smile crossed my lips as my hands moved from her arms to her chest. Gently cupping one of her breasts, her body stiffened immediately. Her eyes widened, but she didn't pull away. A soft gasp came from Io as my hands slowly moved up and down.

"Master?"

"Hmm?"

"I feel strange." she said, shivering.

"Does anything hurt?"

She shook her head. "It doesn't. I don't know how to explain what I'm feeling."

I smiled. "That's alright. Just let me know if it's too much for you, alright?"

She nodded quickly, her grip on my body giving away. I took the opportunity to gently turn her around, holding her with her back facing me. Iolanthe didn't resist, but both her right tentacles grasped my right arm. Io leaned back, her head resting on my shoulder as my hands roamed her body.

Neither of us spoke, and I did my best to keep my stimulation under control. Io has never experienced anything like this before, so I was doing what seemed reasonable to me. Her body shivered against mine as my left hand passed by her thighs. She moaned softly as my fingers roamed her skin, but her grip on my arm tightened immediately.

She stepped away from me, spinning around to face me. She didn't say anything, though, even as she spun me around. Oh, it was a rock that I bumped into.

Her tentacles gently moved along my body. They were tentative, gently touching my chest and arms. It felt like she was almost scared to touch me. She teased every part of me, with varying degrees of success. I moaned when she continually teased my nipples, but I laughed when she tried to do the same under my arms. She would focus on parts of my body, categorizing my reactions to her touch. Her exploration grew bolder when she slipped into my pants.

Between teasing her and being teased myself, my body was already in the mood. Io didn't seem to be surprised at all by my state. Slowly, gently, she continued to move her tentacles. My teeth clenched as she fondled me.

"Am I being too rough?" she asked.

I shook my head. "No, you're fine." I hissed. "I think you're doing excellent."

"Is there something more specific that I should be doing?" she asked.

I shook my head. Trying to think coherently was becoming harder with each stroke and touch. "You... you're doing fine." I gasped between breaths.

She stopped, depriving me of any pleasure. I turned to face her, but her eyes made any words stay in my mind. Slowly, silently, she moved her tentacles away from me. Io took a step back from me, allowing me to look at her. I appreciated the view to say the least. She moved back towards me, grabbing hold of my body as if desperate for my warmth.

"Master?"

"Yes?"

She looked nervous, her eyes avoiding my face for a moment before looking at me. "I made some more changes to my body to match the female anatomy more accurately."

I blinked in confusion, before it clicking in my head. "When did you do this?" I asked.

"While you slept." she answered. "In order to learn as much as possible, I needed to be physically compatible with you as well. After approaching the subject with the others, they all agreed to let me study them as well. It didn't take long to make adjustments after that."

"You didn't talk to them before now?" I asked.

She shook her head. "Not about physical compatibility."

I nodded. "Let's make sure that everything is working properly, then."

This must be why she stopped me earlier, then. I looked downwards, being satisfied that the ground was actually dry and safe to sit on, and I pulled us towards the ground. She sat on my lap, her eyes never resting. I wonder what she was thinking about. Either way, my hands rested on her hips. Our eyes met for a moment before she leaned down and pressed her face against mine.

"Please touch me." she said. "I want to feel like earlier. I won't run away this time."

I didn't bother responding with words. My hands spoke for me, resuming their explorations once more. Her own tentacles continued to explore and touch my body. It seemed like this time she was more confident in herself. Time to see if I'm right.

I brought my hands to her waist, touching her legs. They tightened around my waist, but she didn't pull away. If anything, her actions grew more bolder and desperate. Her body grinded against mine as if desperate for more contact than she already had. From her legs, I turned my attention to her stomach. Her body shivered under my touch, her tentacles wrapping around my neck.

As she pulled away from my face, I smiled at her. "Do you want me to keep going?" I asked her.

She nodded. I wondered if the stimulation was beginning to overwhelm her. I leaned forward, kissing her again, as my hands slowly roamed between her legs. My fingers slid down her stomach as my thumbs encountered a soft, wet entrance. Io gasped, her eyes widening and her body stiffening on top of mine. I smiled at her, keeping still until she relaxed. She nodded once, slowly, giving me permission to continue exploring.

I kept my touches gentle, trying to avoid catching her by surprise again. Her chest heaved with every touch, though, so my attempts may be wasted. Still, it didn't feel right to do whatever I wanted without her consent. I have to admit, though, that it was rather entertaining watching her expressions and trying to attach meaning to each one. Her eyes seemed to focus on things that were invisible to me. Perhaps there was something only she could see? Oh Arceus, better not think about things like that. Not that it would make much of a difference. There's a certain ghost that I know all too well that likes to do such things.

I looked into Iolanthe's eyes, getting her immediate attention. She turned to me, her eyes locking onto mine. She nodded once, but refused to say anything. I raised an eyebrow, but she nodded again. Io slowly removed the grip she had on my body, her legs unhooking from behind my back. She stood up momentarily, glaring down at me. Specifically, at the garments that were still attached to my body. I hastened to take them off, before she thought of doing it herself. I would like to keep something intact after this experience!

Io nodded before turning around and slowly sitting down. She took care not to harm me, though now my erection was being pressed on her back. She didn't seem to mind, though. Her tentacles came back, reaching behind me and pulling me towards her. My hands returned to their previous position. With easier access to her body, I gently pushed my index finger into her vagina. Her body instantly seized up again, her legs wrapping around my arm and her head tilted upwards. I gently stroked her inner walls as they grasped at my finger hungrily. It seems that whatever she did to herself seems to be working more than she expected. Her legs twitched alongside her tentacles. With one hand being held between her legs, I used my free hand to caress and hold Io gently.

It took a while for her to come back to me. Her eyes looked vacant, though I'm going to chalk that one up because of her orgasm. My hand between her legs was wet due to her copious fluids. I leaned towards her head, kissing her neck.

"I guess everything is working properly, huh?" I asked with a smile.

She shook her head. "There's still one more thing to test." she said. Her voice sounded like she was trying to catch her breath.

I looked at her curiously, but a tentacle tip pressed against my lips. "Yes, I sound tired. Mental exertion is a good way to exhaust psychic power, you know."

I smiled as she removed her seal on my lips. "I wasn't going to comment on that."

"Yes, but you were thinking it." she pointed out.

I sighed. "Can't hide anything from you, can I?" I asked rhetorically.

She didn't respond. Instead, she pulled away from me once again. She twisted once more, facing me again. This time, her touch reaching down to my dick. A shiver went up my spine as she did so, gently wrapping my member in her grip. Her eyes met mine, but didn't keep looking at me for long. It looked like something was bothering her.

"Io?"

"Something is missing." she said. "There is more to this, correct?"

I nodded slowly. She lifted her hips, positioning herself over me. Without any hesitation, she dropped herself on top of my lap again while impaling herself with my shaft. Her eyes became level with mine, staring at me unwaveringly. Her body remained still as if refusing to cooperate with her wishes. She wasn't struggling, but she didn't seem comfortable. I wouldn't doubt it, if this was the case.

"Is this supposed to hurt?" she asks calmly.

I was startled by her question. "Normally, I think. Just don't move for now and try to relax."

She nodded, her body slowly relaxing. It amused me that she could somehow override the impulses of her physical body with her willpower. Still, this wouldn't bode well if she was in pain. I brought one of my hands down to where our bodies were joined, feeling something sticky and wet on my fingers. I didn't want to startle her, so I raised my hands behind her head. Yeah, that's blood.

"Io, how detailed did you copy this part of your body?" I asked.

"I took samples from Joy and Song." she answered. "I used the knowledge of other Deoxy to restructure my body to be more human-like while being true to its original source."

"Why did you need Song, though?"

"She is another Pokémon, but roughly human-like in appearance and structure. I wanted to have another option, if my first attempt did not work."

I nodded. I don't think I want to understand the details here. Still, that wasn't going to solve our current problem. She touched my arms, pulling them towards her face and nodded when she saw the blood on my fingers.

"I was my understanding that sexual intercourse would be-" she said, but stopped when I pressed an unbloodied finger against her face.

"Io, sex isn't something that you approach like this." I whispered. "Yes, I understand that you do things a little bit differently. That's fine. But there's a lot of emotions behind this, too, in order for it to mean something more than just the act for creating life."

She closed her eyes. For a moment, I honestly thought that she was asleep due to her not showing any outward sign acknowledgement. Her body slowly leaned against mine, though, as if she had no cares in the world. I embraced her, my hands stroking her back and caressing her sides.

One part of her, however, wasn't relaxed. While the rest of her body was relaxed, the muscles surrounding my cock were anything but still. I honestly have no clue how she moved the way she did, but I wasn't going to last if she was allowed to continue. I grabbed her hips and pulled her upwards. Her body refused to cooperate with me as she forced her hips downwards almost immediately. Her eyes flew open at once, a moan echoing in my ears.

"What was that?" she asked.

I grinned. "What I was trying to do."

"Again!" she exclaimed. "Please?" she added.

I lifted her up slowly and this time I wasn't met with any resistance. Her eyes widened as I almost pulled all the way out of her, but moaned once more when she began sliding back down. Her body didn't stop doing whatever it was doing. It squeezed and caressed me, never relenting on trying to please me as best she could. Our moans began to come out together, synchronized to each thrust and each movement from our bodies.

I wrapped my arms around Io, holding her down as my body caved in to the pleasure. She squirmed against me, her body refusing to stop and encouraging me to spill everything I had inside her. Our moans combined, not caring who or what could hear us. A shiver went down my spine as Io's body stopped writhing. Her eyes opened, giving me her signature 'smile' with her eyes as she looked at me.

"Is this what sex is like?" she asked softly.

The question made me smile. "Maybe not as strong if you keep doing it." I said with a chuckle. "I can't answer to how a woman would feel like, but from my point of view, that's how the others reacted."

"How so?"

"Zin gushing out fire from her mouth when we first did it." I said, remembering that finer detail. "Fire-types tend to have good control over their fire."

We looked at each other for a moment before laughter bubbled out of both of us. Io wrapped her tentacles around me again, her legs matching her upper limbs. She began to slowly gyrate her hips against mine, making my eyes go wide and a moan escaping my lips.

"Io?"

"Not enough data for my experiment." she said, pressing her forehead against mine. "I require more data, if you would be so kind."

As her body began to pleasure me again, I closed my eyes. My only hope was to weather the storm that was Io's 'experiment', and hope that she doesn't become addicted to it. Our moans began once more, and I feared that it wouldn't be the last time they would be heard.

======================//////////////////////////////=====================

Io relaxed next to me. Mercifully, she was satisfied with the results of her 'experiment'. I jokingly asked if she got what she was looking for. She stared at me as if she remembered something.

"I want to ask you something, Master." she said.

I motioned her to continue. "What's up?"

She didn't speak immediately. Perhaps she was trying to phrase her question. It didn't take long for her to figure something out.

"Do you truly mean to abandon us?"

That stung and I frowned at that. "I suppose that's one way to see that." I said, shaking my head. "To be fair, I just want to see you all safe. How is staying with me going to fulfill that?"

"How is being away from you guarantee our own safety?" she responded. "Only the Rayquaza seem to have your best interests to heart, but only because they share your feelings about this conflict. We do not know how any of the others will behave, and we are not unknown to the others. We've fought, and won, against them. News would have spread by now of our group."

I sat in silence. She continued. "If anything, we would be safer with you and the Rayquaza. We would have the support of Joy and Jon as well. You stand to succeed with more numbers, not less."

"The others think this way, too." I said. A sigh escaped my lips. "I just don't want anyone getting hurt anymore. Spirit paid too high of a price for my safety."

Io placed a tentacle on my chin, turning my head to face her. She pressed her face against mine, soon making me lose my balance and fall with her atop of me. The gem on her chest pulsed softly.

"Do not make me force Zin on you." she said.

"I don't know if I should be excited or scared." I quipped back.

"Don't make ME force you." she amended."

"I don't think you're making this any better."

"What about Song?"

"Not going to lie, we'd be at it like Lopunny, much like you."

"Mist? Baast?"

"They're actually really gentle past that rough exterior of theirs." I said. "Don't tell them I said that. They might not like their secrets escaping."

"I'm being serious!" she exclaimed.

"So am I." I said with a grin.

"That's not what I meant." she said, poking my chest as she sat on my lap.

Thank Arceus I had my pants back on. I grabbed hold of her tentacles. "What do you feel now, Io?" I asked.

"What do you mean?"

"About us, about me, and about your place in it all." I said, hoping to clarify my question. "What's keeping you here now?"

"You." she answered immediately. "It has always been you. I feel a sense of belonging that I have never experienced before. You opened your arms for me, a stranger, and never questioned why. You became a Pokémon breeder just so I could be transported safely. After seeing how you interact with your own Pokémon, and hearing their enthusiastic praise for you, I wished to experience it myself."

"Can I put my bet on Zin encouraging everyone to have sex with me?" I asked. "I feel like that's the best odds."

Iolanthe didn't respond, continuing with her thoughts. "I want to be here, with you, for as long as possible. You've helped me so much, and I want to find out the truth of all this Arceus business, as well. All this suffering cannot go unanswered."

"Would others of your kind help?" I asked.

"It might be possible. I will try to gather aid, but I don't know if any will answer."

I nodded, but smiled. "Doesn't matter. I have Iolanthe, and that's worth like ten other Deoxy."

She blinked and immediately looked away from me. Was she blushing? I suppressed the grin that tried to crawl over my face. Instead, my arms wrapped around her and pulled her on top of me. She didn't resist, resting her head on my shoulder.

"Thank you." I said.

She didn't respond to that. Instead of using words, she wrapped her tentacles around me and held me tightly against her body.

"I promise to do everything I can to protect you." she said. "I will walk with you to the end of this path."

=======================//////////////////////=======================

We teleported back with little fanfare at our destination. Everyone seemed subdued, acting as if I would lash out of they said something. Io, on the other hand, stood out by being the complete opposite. It wasn't long before Song grabbed hold of me and pulled me away from the others. Her eyes had dry tears, as if she had just recently got done crying.

"Master, please reconsider your-" she began, before I cut her off with an embrace.

I held her, trying to let her feel how I felt about all this. Her psychic powers might have been diminished, but I know they weren't gone. She gasped loudly, a whimper escaping her lips as she squirmed against me. I could feel the horn pressing against my chest. She slowed her struggles, until she finally rested her head on my shoulder. Her whimpers continued, but they weren't as desperate as before. I rubbed her head gently as she calmed down.

"I'm sorry." I said.

"Did Io change your mind?" she asked.

I gently pulled her so I could see her face. Gently, my fingers wiped away any fresh tears that my blundering produced. "You could say that." I said mischievously.

"You know I can still feel your feelings." she said.

"I know. Yes, she did."

"Should I tell everyone?"

I shrugged. "If Io hasn't told them yet. Just promise me that you'll be careful, OK?"

She nodded. "Of course. I will be asking of you the same thing." she said. "And also to never forget about us."

I nodded. "I forgot that this adventure wasn't just for me alone, huh."

She smiled. That's all I needed to see.

======================////////////////////=========================

North, West, East, and South. The four Rayquaza that were born into their roles of leadership sat with me alongside my Pokémon. I had asked for their presence after everyone else had gone to sleep so as not to bother anyone. My Pokémon were possessive of me, as if what happened yesterday renewed them somehow. News travels fast, I suppose.

"We're glad that you changed your mind, Shard of Arceus." West said. "You will need all the allies you can find."

I nodded. "Thank you, West. I realize that now."

Zin barked out a laugh. I stared at her, but she didn't bother looking my way. Deciding to bring that up later, I turned my focus to the Rayquaza.

"While more allies would be nice, what can we do right now?" I asked. "Do any of you have suggestions for our next step?"

"It would be wisest to head to the Castle of Truth and Ideals." West said.

"What would we accomplish there?" I asked. "And where is that? I've never heard of this place before."

"I would be surprised if you did." West continued. "Not many Pokémon believe it exists, but it still does. Even after what happened in Unova, most other aspects consider the story a farce."

"What would we get by going there?"

"Safety, Shard of Arceus." she said. "We would be able to find safe haven there. No violence is allowed inside thanks to the twin masters of the castle."

"Sounds like a good deal." I said. "What's the catch?"

"The sooner we can get you there, the faster you and your friends will be safe."

I nodded. "When are we able to leave?"

"In a few days time. We do not want to throw caution to the sky by potentially altering weather patterns unnecessarily." West said. "We understand that we are under significant pressure due to the other humans being able to spread the news to others, but we cannot risk attracting more suspicion from the Zapdos and the Articuno."

"Could the Moltres help us?" I asked. "Would there be others willing to help, like you?"

West looked at her brothers and sister, who all shook their heads. "We do not know what has happened to the Moltres in a long time."

"One of them helped us fight Cresselia." I mentioned. "Could it be possible that they are under attack?"

"It could be, but we can wait for those answers after we have gotten you to safety." West said with a tone of finality.

I didn't like it, but it didn't look like they were going to be convinced to do anything. It made sense overall. It just sounded like we couldn't make something happen to tip the odds in our favor. I sighed, but nodded.

"We'll be ready."

"WAIT!"

I was surprised to see Zin walking towards the Rayquaza, flecks of flame appearing around the Houndoom. My leg began to ache, though I managed not to cry out in pain. It felt like something was alive under my skin, burning its way up my leg.

"What is it?" West asked.

"That's it?!" she demanded. "We're going to go, again, to some other place in Arceus knows where to just WAIT?! Just what in the world do you expect to happen?!"

"We hope that the masters of the castle will be able to help us gather the fragments collected by Giratina and that the Shard of Arceus present will be able to give his willingly."

"But will they?" Zin asked.

The four Rayquaza sat there unflinchingly against Zin's words. To be honest, her concern was valid. Why would these masters help us? Why would they take me inside their castle in the first place? Just those two questions alone would put us in extreme danger if either of these would go unfavorable for us. The problem is, we can't stay here, either.

"Zin, we can't stay here, either." I said.

"We can't just risk our lives because on a chance!" she said, turning around to face me.

I walked up to her, kneeling next to the Houndoom. She growled as I placed a hand on her head but she didn't pull away from me. Fumes came out of her nose and between her teeth as I knelt next to her.

"What do you care." she said, growling. "You're going to leave us to rot. You're nothing but another damn human that doesn't care about our feelings."

"That's not true."

"YOU MANIPULATED US!" she roared at me.

"No, that's not true, either."

"I'll hunt you down if you're lying." she growled out. "That mark will let me know where you are. You'll never be safe from my fangs."

"Zin."

"Don't you dare!" she snapped. "You can win everyone else by being all lovey-dovey or whatever you humans do, but you won't fool me! I refuse to be used and thrown away! I won't let you!"

A gout of flame approached me. Surprised by the action, I closed my eyes, fully expecting to be burned by the attack. When the heat washed away, I opened my eyes to see Mist hovering in front of me. A purple barrier hovered in front of her, flames licking on the surface trying to reach behind it. The Houndoom was nowhere to be found.

"Master, that was extremely reckless." Mist intoned. "Please try to be more mindful of us."

"Thank you, Mist." I said.

"Thank me by finding her." the ghost said. "We need her, just as much as she needs you."

I frowned, but nodded. The Rayquaza didn't move during the display, letting it play out. Perhaps they saw Mist move to protect me? From the looks of things, I'll probably never know. I sighed, stood up, and thanked the Rayquaza for their time. My Pokémon followed behind me as I walked away from the four.

"Where would she go?" Song asked aloud.

"I don't know. Opening my Pokédex might let whoever find me quickly. I need to find Jon."

Thankfully, it didn't take long to find him. He was busy sitting next to Joy, a Pokéball in his hands. He stood up as we approached.

"Any news?" he asked.

"Not of the good kind. We have to wait before we go to some castle or whatever, but that's not the worst right now. Zin ran away."

He sighed. Joy muttered curses. "Fucking Houndoom." she said.

"Would you know a way to open the Pokédex and not have it track my movements?" I asked hopefully. "It's either that or we having to track her manually."

Jon shook his head. "It might be possible, but it's risky. I don't know how close you want to play it."

I shook my head. "Would you mind helping me find her?" I asked.

He nodded as Joy stood up. "We'll go together."

Jon looked surprised, but nodded. I could a growing tension between the three of us. I'm honestly not sure how or why we continued to get along. Well, I shouldn't say that we're friends. Perhaps not anymore, anyway. Before any more thoughts crossed my mind, Song tapped my shoulder.

"We'll let you all talk without having us over you." she said. The others nodded. Mist seemed indifferent of this decision.

I nodded, recalling all but the Mismagius. She crossed her 'arms' over her chest as I approached. She did smile slightly, though that might as well be a grin for all I know.

"You're going to let me inside, aren't you." she said. It wasn't a question.

"I was going to ask if you'd prefer that, yes."

She giggled. "You know me too well."

"Before that, I want to apologize. I didn't take everyones feelings into this decision and tried to do what was best for you all." I said sincerely. "I just wan-"

She stopped me by pressing a 'finger' against my lips, her touch gentle against my skin. "You silly human." she said, shaking her head. "I've forgiven you already." She tipped her hat over her face. "You've done so much for us, and continue to do so."

"Mist?"

She didn't answer. Instead, she dove into my chest. The familiar chill of her taking residence in my body comforted me somewhat. I hadn't realized I actually missed that feeling.

"I understand why you said the things you said." she said inside of my mind. "I know you want to protect us. But that is not how this works. We are here to protect you. We all love you, Master. Do not forget that ever again."

I touched my chest, nodding. "I won't."

Looking upwards, both Jon and Joy had stopped to wait for me. My legs moved, a goal in sight. We had to find Zin. My friends were with me, and a feeling of invincibility filled me. It wasn't that we weren't untouchable, but I know we make a damn good team.

I took the lead, Jon and Joy falling in step behind me. Going back to where Zin ran away, it didn't take Jon any time to see where she ran off to. He pointed away from the point, which was obvious, but advised that we keep an eye out for anything that may have been burned. The trees didn't look too think, and the snow wasn't to piled up. Any melted snow would be a good indicator of her direction.

Jon took the lead from here, and our progress slowed down. We were looking for anything that may point us in the right direction, and we didn't want attention to ourselves. Making a racket could potentially attract wild Pokémon, and while they should leave us alone it wasn't one-hundred percent certain. Better safe than sorry.

"Over there." Jon pointed.

A few trunks were on the ground, fallen long ago by natural causes. What didn't look right was all the smoke coming from them. As we approached, a foul stench came from the burnt husks. Joy placed her hand over the trunks and quickly pulled away.

"They're still hot." she said. "This can't have happened more than an hour ago at best."

I nodded. "The smell, too. It's not just fire." I said.

"Let's keep moving this way." Jon said, getting our attention. "There's Houndoom tracks this way."

"More than one?" Joy asked.

"No."

It has to have been Zin. Still, I had to make sure. "Do you think it's her?"

Jon nodded. "It's rare for Houndooms to be alone, since they thrive in packs. Yours is the exception, of course, so it's our best bet."

"Do you know where we are? Would there be other Houndoom packs in this area, too?"

He shook his head. "No, I don't really know where we are. We didn't fly for that long after the Sky Pillar. We have to be in Hoenn."

Joy frowned. "This doesn't seem normal, though."

"What is it?" Jon and I asked.

"Why is there ice on the tree? Like, no shit, it's cold and all that, but there's ice over the burned area here."

We turned to look at it. Sure enough, there were ice patches covering some of the burns in other trees. The wind blew, bringing with it a sudden flurry of snow. It quickly reminded me that I should have brought something more warm to wear.

"Let's keep moving." Jon said. "We can't stay out here all day to find Zin."

Both Joy and I nodded as the wind picked up again. It didn't look like there was actual snow falling, but I was afraid that we would lose Zin's trail. Either way, there were more trees with both flame marks and chunks of ice hanging from their branches. It looked like a duel of some sort. Is Zin in trouble? If so, what was she fighting?

"Do you think that she's in trouble?" I asked.

"She could be." Joy said. "Though I don't know why anyone would use ice type moves on a Houndoom. Maybe she's fighting an Ice type? If that's the case, she should win no problems."

"If." Jon said.

"What other type of Pokémon would live out here?" I asked.

A howl stopped our discussion. I turned immediately, my ears straining towards it. Zin's out there, and something's hurt her! Jon grabbed hold of me before I ran ahead. I stared at him, but he shook his head.

"You aren't going ahead of us this time." he said. "Lead on, we're following."

I nodded and turned to the direction of the howl. The snow quickly began to slow us down, but it wouldn't be enough. The wind began to blow harder, my vision slowly becoming a white haze. My foot slipped on something, my mouth filling with white powder. Jon and Joy were immediately on my sides, pulling me up to my feet. We stood there for a moment as another howl echoed around us. It sounded louder, so we were getting closer.

Or whatever was making it was coming towards us. I hoped there was something else making those howls. I didn't know where Zin was, but I would prefer not hear her being in pain.

"Here's a question." Joy said. "Why is there a blizzard even with so many Rayquaza around?"

"Maybe they don't intervene with natural phenomena?" I offered.

Jon shook his head. "Hoenn has a very mild winter season." he said. "I've never heard of any snowstorms in any parts of Hoenn."

"Freak storm?" I proposed.

"No. Something is making this." he said.

"The Articuno?" Joy asked.

"Could be." Jon said. "I hope not, though. Let's keep going. I hear something up ahead, and it doesn't sound good."

How in the fuck did he hear something in the middle of this snowstorm? I guess the wind wasn't too bad, but I couldn't hear anything except the pounding in my ears. Jon took the lead and we followed him as fast as we could. The treeline was becoming thicker, with more trees suffering damage of some kind. As we went, the scorch marks were becoming more prominent as we continued forward. Was Zin winning this fight? If so, who did we hear howl?

Jon stopped suddenly and stretched out his hand with his palm facing our direction. I wanted to ask him what was up, but he started moving again. Did he see something? A flash of light up ahead made me think that we reached what we were looking for. Jon tackled me suddenly, as a beam of ice flew right over us. He rolled off me, putting himself in a more favorable position.

"Who the fuck?" I said aloud.

The snowstorm began to subside, revealing an all too familiar hexagon shape contrasted by her purple mane. Twin ribbons of white whipped around her blue body. In her mouth she held a Houndoom.

"Suicune!" I shouted. "Give me back Zin!"

She didn't respond with words, or by letting Zin go. Instead, the hexagon glowed white as the snow surrounding us. Mist flew out of my chest as another Ice Beam was launched at us. The ghost formed a barrier, intercepting the beam. While the attack itself was successfully stopped, the ice grew out of the impact point and began to encapsulate us.

Mist noticed. Without a word, a Shadow Ball appeared above her before she threw it forwards. A shower of dark energy tainted the ice ahead before we were showered in shards of small crystals. Jon grabbed one of his Pokéballs, calling out... Zapdos?!

"Fucking show-off." Joy said. "This whore thinks she's hot shit. Today she gets the ass whooping of her Arceus fucking life."

She grabbed one of her Pokéballs, light flashing to bring out her Ampharos. Joy didn't waste any time with pleasantries.

"Menes, Thunderbolt!"

"Zapdos, Thunder!"

"Mist, Night Shade!"

No one hesitated in executing their respective commands. Both the lightning Pokémon sent their respective attacks, as Mist's combined hers with Mene's. Suicune didn't make any movements as all our attacks reached her. The blast pushed out the snow in the area as all the attacks landed simultaneously. As the air cleared, a blue sphere surrounded Suicune, one that looked similar to how Mist used her defensive abilities. The Houndoom in the jaws of Suicune still hasn't made any movements that I've seen either.

"How are we going to punch through that thing?!" Joy demanded.

"Maybe we need a little water power of our own." Jon said, grabbing hold of another Pokéball.

"Conrad, Ancient Power!" he yelled as the Carracosta came flying out of the Pokéball.

When he landed, the ground began to shake. Snow fell as boulders surrounded in purple energy hovered around the Carracosta. Not small pebbles or anything, these things were easily as tall as I was. They soared towards Suicune with a slow throwing motion from Conrad. Suicune didn't seem surprised when the rocks impacted the shield surrounding her. She did, however, dodge when they began to punch through.

I grabbed Zin's Pokéball and pointed it towards the limp Houndoom. The recall beam zipped its way forward. Small miracle that my aim was true and successfully recalled her away. Suicune glared at me, like I've done something awful or broken an ancient tradition. She didn't speak to us, but howled angrily. A shiver went down my spine, not just from the cold that began to assault us, but realizing that's the howl we heard a few moments ago.

"I think that we have to go." Jon stated.

"I don't fucking think that she'll just let us walk away." Joy shouted at him.

In a blur, Suicune dashed towards us. Faster than I would give him credit, Conrad intercepted her. Her teeth gnashed against his hard shell, and thankfully didn't find any grip with her claws. Though I'm not sure how, Conrad actually grabbed hold of Suicune's hexagon.

"Rock Slide!" Jon shouted.

With his grip secured, Conrad then threw Suicune downwards. If the snow cushioned the impact, it didn't show it with the amount that flew skywards. Jon laughed and shook his head.

"What's so funny?" I asked him.

"Conrad is trained to deal with brute force enemies like this." he explained. "I honestly can't remember anything getting up after Conrad gotten his fins on them."

"I think someone broke your winning streak." Joy said.

Both Jon and I turned our attention back to Conrad, who was currently hiding within his shell to avoid being hit by, what looked like, Suicune's Shadow Ball attacks. How in the world was she using a Ghost type attack? Joy stepped forward, Menes taking stage.

"Thunder Punch!" she exclaimed.

The Ampharos threw a right punch, forcing her to move to avoid the attack. This in turn, gave Conrad the room to come out of his shell. Jon hurried over to assess the damage. While I hoped that he was OK, I turned my attention to Suicune.

"Mist, is there any way to help tilt the odds in our favor?"

The ghost floated over to me. "We have to make a window of opportunity. Something that Suicune wouldn't be expecting. I will say this. Something doesn't feel right."

"Do you know of any attacks that could work?"

"Perish Song."

I blinked, taken aback by the name of the move. "What does it do?"

"It doesn't kill, as the name would allow you to believe. It knocks out all who hear it, however. It would be best if everyone else recalled their Pokémon after I sing it."

"How long does it take to take effect?"

She didn't answer that question directly. "I will be able to hold her off until it does. If we can weaken her more, it would make this plan easier to execute."

I nodded, tapping my chest. "I'll let you know when it's your turn."

She flew inside of me without a second word. I would have to recall her after she used Perish Song using her Pokéball. This really isn't the time to be nitpicking, though. I grabbed Baast's Pokéball, bringing the Lucario to the fray.

Baast didn't hesitate or wait for my commands. As Menes backed off from what looked like ice clinging from his face, the Lucario punished Suicune with her punches and kicks. Every blow resonated oddly, like if crystals were being tapped against one another. Suicune actually seemed to be suffering from each subsequent attack, though. Each hit by Baast fueled her momentum and Suicune seemed to slow down with every blow. I looked towards Menes and Joy, wondering if there was anything I could do. Her glare stopped me dead before my mouth opened.

"Focus on the fight, dammit!" she said. "Menes if fine, if a little frostbitten. He's had worse, that's for sure."

I nodded, turning towards the action once more. Jon grabbed hold of my arm, getting my attention. He pointed towards Zapdos, who was currently flying overhead.

"Think you can give us a shot?" he asked.

"Yeah, let's make it happen." I said, nodding.

Baast landed a blow that pushed Suicune backwards. This was as good a chance as any. "Baast, Aura Sphere!"

She pressed her paws together, forming a ball of energy as wide as her body and launching towards Suicune. As the sphere approached its target, another shield formed. The blow seemed deflected, but Suicunes attention was still on Baast. Jon took his chance.

"Zapdos, Zap Cannon!"

A ball of lightning fell downwards from Zapdos' position and on top of Suicune's head. The noise reminded me of old movie props, and how those explosions sounded like. The force knocked us all off our feet, my vision blurring once again. Standing up, I half hoped that this would be over. Baast was next to me in a flash, as Suicune's teeth wrapped around the Lucario's right arm.

Baast howled in pain, but brought her free arm to pry Suicune's mouth open. Being pushed off her opponent, Suicune didn't hurry over to continue the fight. Baast didn't seem to like that. She ran towards the dog to punch... but missed? I looked around, spotting Suicune standing next to me. The Lucario suddenly just appeared next to me, punching Suicune. The attack went through, like she wasn't there. What was going on?

Baast screamed in pain, one of her legs being coated in ice. As she spun around, her other leg began to seemingly grow ice on its own. Slowly being immobilized, I recalled Baast before she took more any more attacks from an invisible attacker.

Zapdos came from above, flying over where Baast was attacked. It looked like she spotted something we couldn't see from our point of view, and flew straight at it. She stopped in midair, though only because Suicune had manifested her barrier once more. Electricity followed the general shape of the barrier, but it didn't look like that's what Zapdos was trying to do.

"Drill Peck!" Jon shouted.

With Zapdos seemingly in the perfect position, the giant electric bird began to flap its wings. Instead of flying upwards, her entire body began spinning in place as her beak pierced towards her target. A deep gash appeared in Suicune's barrier, followed by more fractures until it finally broke. Zapdos and her momentum didn't stop with just the broken barrier, and her beak found flesh. Suicune howled in pain as Zapdos pushed through with her assault.

I reached for Akalia's Pokéball, almost fearing that we would have to continue battling Suicune. Seriously, what was making her keep going? Zapdos landed next to us, nodding once towards her trainer.

"She's down." Zapdos said.

"Last time someone said that, she stood right back up." Joy pointed out. "I'm not taking chances."

"What do you mean?" I asked Zapdos.

"Dead."

That surprised me. Joy rolled her eyes. "Until I see it for myself, I'm not going to believe anyone."

Jon, on the other hand, took a step back. "Zapdos, I don't think you finished her off."

Zapdos turned around to see what we all were seeing. A bright glow emanated from where Suicune lay. She stood up, red blood staining her blue pelt. The hexagon that would be on her head was damaged, the top point completely shattered off at one moment during the fighting. One of the ribbons that came from her body was either gone or cut. What shook me to the core was the laughter.

Mist came out of my body at that time. I honestly don't know what we could do anymore. Is this our chance to use Perish Song? Either way, she began to sing, her voice sounding like some kind of wind instrument. If she was singing words, they were words I didn't understand. Suicune hasn't stopped laughing, however.

She spit out a glob of saliva and blood from her mouth as she walked towards us. We all prepared for her to attack, but instead she seemed to be deliberately waiting for the song to finish.

"I see what you are planning, Shard." she said, speaking for the first time. Her tone of voice reminded me of an adult speaking down to a child that didn't understand their situation. "How well do you think your plan will succeed."

I didn't bother responding. It annoyed me more that the Rayquaza weren't here helping us. Some help they are.

"I wouldn't blame the Rayquaza for not aiding you, Shard." she said. "My children are keeping them nice and busy. We wouldn't want any sort of outside interference, wouldn't we?"

I bit my lip, trying to keep myself calm and failing miserably. To be honest, fighting Suicune was the last thing I was expecting today. Why was she attacking us? She grinned directly at me, still ignoring the fact that Mist was still singing Perish Song.

"We've become tired of waiting!" she shouted over Mist's words.

"Waiting for what?" I demanded. "I'm trying to finish this!"

"Finishing what?! Bringing Arceus to the world? What do you think will happen when that happens?"

"Wouldn't being able to speak with your Father help settle everything instead of letting this hatred sit in all of your hearts?" I asked. "Do you want to hate all your kin, because you could never settle what happened since the beginning of our world?"

That seemed to make her hesitate for a moment. She took a step back, my words making her take stop. Mist stopped singing at that moment, facing Suicune. How long did we have to wait until Perish Song activated? I remembered what Mist said and turned to Joy and Jon.

"Recall your Pokémon!" I called.

"What?" Joy shouted.

"Trust me! We have it from here." I said.

"We're not backing down!" Jon exclaimed. "Not after all this shit."

Zapdos hovered above, wings kicking up snow. Joy had recalled Menes, but grabbed another Pokéball, releasing Morph. Immediately, the Ditto began changing to match Suicune. The real Suicune backed away as she stared our team down. Both Jon and Joy walked over to me, the two of them placing a hand on my shoulders.

"Mist used Perish Song." I said. "We have to last until that takes effect."

"Do you think your plan will work, Shard?" Suicune asked.

"Won't know until it happens!"

"Go, Morph! Get the bitch!" Joy shouted.

Both Suicune met violently, tackling each other without any quarter given. Zapdos flew upwards, getting enough height to fly. Mist didn't seem interested in the fight at the moment, floating an arms length away from me. What would happen now?

Trying to watch both Suicune attack each other and trying to figure out which one was which was becoming increasingly difficult. It didn't seem that Morph had a lot of experience fighting in all fours before. Either way, the Ditto was holding his own. Flying shards of ice scattered in all directions as Suicune and Morph fired at each other at point-blank range.

"Jon, swap out Zapdos." I said. "She'll be affected by Perish Song, too, I think."

He nodded. "Alright. Don't think I'm out of this just yet." he said, recalling Zapdos. Securing Zapdos, he grabbed another Pokéball to replace the electric bird. "Fern, Leaf Blade!"

"Morph, back out!"

One of the Suicune backed out, standing next to Joy as the Sceptile jumped in. Both her forearms glowed blue, matching her skin as she slashed her opponent. I looked at Morph, noting the beating that Suicune left on the Ditto. As the transformation reversed, the wounds disappeared, but the exhaustion was still present. Joy recalled him back, grabbing another Pokéball but I stopped her.

"I'm next." I said. "Let Jon stall her."

"How long does it take for Perish Song to take effect, anyway?" Joy asked. "It doesn't take more than a few seconds at best."

"Thirty." Jon said. "Takes thirty seconds."

"It's been more than that!" she shouted.

"Aaron!"

A dark energy swirled around both Suicune and Mist. I wasn't familiar with what it was, but Mist didn't seem to be shaken by what was happening around her. On the other hand, Suicune writhed as whatever took effect on both Pokémon. Both Pokémon fell, though I managed to recall Mist before she landed on the snow. Fern stood by, wary of her opponent was playing a trick on us. To be honest, the caution was welcome.

"Is she down?" Joy asked.

"For now." Jon said. "Remember Cresselia."

"Let's get out of here, then." I suggested. "Regroup with the Rayquaza and bail."

Joy's eyes widened. "Then we better hurry up. She's starting to get back up."

"Fern, stop her!" Jon shouted.

The Sceptiles forearms glowed once more, dashing forward to slash Suicune. The first strike was stopped by one of Suicune's barriers, but the second slashed through it, forcing Suicune to dodge. I looked at Jon, who nodded. I grabbed a Pokéball from my belt. I think someone's claws need to be sharpened.

"Akalia!"

My Luxray jumped out, charging forward as electricity flowed through her mane. Fern moved out of the way as Akalia took her place. Suicune's painful howl filled the sky as electricity flowed through her entire body. She finally fell, again. Akalia growled loudly, almost as if daring her to get back up again. Fern walked next to Akalia, ready to back her up on a moments notice.

"Shard!"

I was surprised that Suicune had any strength to talk. She struggled to get up, her paws shaking under her own weight. I walked forward, grabbing Fern's arm and gently tugging Akalia with me. Standing in front of her now, her wounds weren't something she was exaggerating. Her fur was ruined, blood and scratches covering her entire body. The hexagon that would adorn her head was nothing more than a broken crown. Blood covered her eyes, her eyes closed just to avoid having the liquid enter them. It looked a little sad, if she wasn't trying to kill me and all that.

"Call off your attack." I demanded. "Stop your children."

Nothing happened for a little while, as if she was preparing herself for something. She tilted her head up and howled. Her voice wavered from the effort. It didn't last long and she gasped for breath as soon as she was finished.

"Done." she said. "A favor, please."

I narrowed my eyes. "Why would I? Why should I?"

"This one, she demands to speak to you."

"Who?"

"The first of our kind that you met." she said. "She saved your precious Milotic from an accident, and has tried to stop me from hurting you for quite some time now."

"What did you do to her." I demanded. "Tell me!"

Suicune shivered, as if the cold was actually affecting her. Her legs gave out from under her with a sigh. She began to whimper in pain, her body twitching. Jon and Joy stood by me.

"Should we..." Jon started saying.

"No." I said, cutting him off. "I think we've done enough defending ourselves. She wants to talk, I think, and something doesn't feel right."

"Human?"

No one else has called me by that moniker in a long while. I wanted to close the distance, but I stopped myself from doing so. Was I really safe now? Joy poked my sides. The look that she had bothered me. It didn't look like she wanted to see her being in pain.

"I have some medicine." she said. "The Rayquaza helped me find some basic herbs to help us before we left this area."

"How much can you give me?"

"Not a lot." Jon said. "I don't want her chasing us wherever we go."

"I wouldn't... wouldn't do such a thing. Why am I... what happened to me?"

Joy passed me a small bottle filled with a green and purple liquid. I approached the fallen Pokémon slowly, her whimpers making my hands move faster to unscrew the bottle.

"This might sting." I warned her.

She didn't respond, so I put some on my fingers and did my best to cover the worse of her wounds. Suicune didn't move or complain, just laid there while everyone watched. I gauged her reactions, making sure that it wasn't hurting her more.

"You wanted to talk to me." I said.

"I did?"

"Why did you attack Zin?"

"Where am I?"

"Middle of nowhere, as far as I'm concerned." I answered.

She squirmed, but I pressed a hand on her neck. She wasn't in any position to move. "Stop, before you break something."

"I recognize your voice." she said.

Something was bothering me, and it really felt like there was something obvious that I was missing. "We just fought because you had my Houndoom in your jaws." I reminded her. "Also, your children were attacking our friends, the Rayquaza, so they wouldn't interfere."

Suicune didn't respond immediately. She squirmed again, but I placed a hand on her head stopped her. I was careful not to touch where the hexagon would be. She calmed down somewhat.

"You're the human that I helped, correct?" she asked. "The one with the Milotic that almost died."

I nodded. Realizing that she couldn't see me, I answered aloud. "Yeah, that's me."

"Is she still with you?" she asked.

"Yeah, she is."

"Good."

"You still haven't answered my question." I pointed out, closing the bottle for now. "Why did you attack us?"

"The Prime's thoughts." she said. "Suddenly the warning he gave me makes me feel like a fool."

"What do you mean?" I demanded.

"Could you wipe my eyes?" she asked. "I can't see."

I sighed, but I did as she asked. Jon passed me a handkerchief. The logo of the Johto Rangers emblazoned on it. He shrugged at me when I looked at him. I opened the bottle again, using some of the liquid to help ease any pain she might feel. Aligning myself with her head, I wiped the blood away from her as gently as possible.

Her eyes opened, a gasp coming out of her muzzle when she saw me. She shook her head, whining softly. Suicune nuzzled my hand. The impulse to pull away filled my thoughts.

"I'm so sorry, Shard." she said. "I didn't want to attack you. I resisted for so long! You must believe me!"

"What do you mean?" I asked. "Who did you resist?"

She shivered. "The previous Prime." she said, whimpering softly. "He was so strong, but I beat him! I wanted to help you. I saw something special, something that could help us! I didn't know you would be one of the last Shards of Arceus! After we met in my home, in Johto, I had defeated the previous Prime a few days ago. But ever since then, it has been a constant battle of holding his thoughts and mannerisms at bay."

What the Rayquaza said came back to me. The part of the previous leaders thoughts merging with their new body. Just thinking about such a system angered me. Why would Arceus do such a thing? Why punish someone trying to make a difference?! It didn't make any sense! Only one suspicion stopped me from believing her.

"How can I know which one of you is which?" I asked. "You might be trying to trick me."

She laughed, a sound that wasn't appropriate for how badly she looked. "He's not used to pain." she said. "He slinked away to avoid feeling it anymore."

I don't know if I should feel good about that right now. Suicune smiled at me. "Trust me, he's not here."

I didn't say anything, but I wanted to play this one as safely as possible. "We're going to be leaving." I told her. "Please don't follow us. I don't want to hurt you again."

"You didn't hold back." she pointed out.

"I saw my friend in danger." I countered. "I wouldn't care who you were, I wasn't going to hold back."

"That's good to know."

"You could see what was going on when you weren't in control, could you?" I asked.

She shook her head. "Bits and pieces. Pokémon, mostly, not your faces."

"Can you bring the other one back?"

She closed her eyes, shivering. "Please, don't ask me to do that."

I narrowed my eyes. "I want to tell him something directly."

Suicune closed her eyes, her body shivering as a snarl crossed her muzzle. As they opened, the hostility returned again.

"What did you want to say, Shard?" she snarled.

"I want to ask you directly, since you're trying to take over another of your kind. Stop hurting one of your kind."

"She's weak!" she snarled.

"She beat you." I pointed out. "What your doing is underhanded at best. Did you have to deal with this? Did the one before you make you suffer like how you're making this one suffer? Or are you just so scared of disappearing that you're willing to essentially kill one of your kind to stay alive in someone elses body?"

She looked at me, but didn't speak. I continued with my thought. "Giratina let me inside the Distortion World to look for Ho-Oh. I don't know why Ho-Oh needed a feather to escape, but whatever. I saw one of my Pokémon there. She wasn't in pain, even after Groudon left her with more holes than a pincushion."

I stared at her. "I just want to clarify that your actions lead to Groudon attacking us, and killing her as she protected me."

At least she had the decency to look away at that. "She's waiting for me, you know."

"How would I be reborn, if Ho-Oh isn't there to guide me?"

I shrugged. "Giratina, probably." I offered. "There were others, too, waiting for someone on the other side."

"Why should I believe you, Shard?" she asked me. "Why would any of this be true?"

"I don't have a reason to lie to you. I want the Suicune that beat you have a chance to make the difference she sought out to make. That's why I'm telling you this."

She closed her eyes once more. "May I make a request?"

I nodded. "Sure."

"Can I feel your touch?"

I shrugged, placing a hand gently on her side. Her breathing slowed. For a moment, I thought that she was just going to kill both of the inhabitants of the body. For a moment, her breathing stopped altogether. Then, nothing.

"That's it?" Joy asked. "What the fuck?"

"No." I said.

"It's over, Aaron." Jon said.

"It's not. Give it a second."

I didn't pull away from her body, though. I didn't want to believe that I was lied to. For whatever it was, I hoped that my words actually let the original Prime that I was genuine. Something moved on Suicune's body, catching my attention. Her mane was turning blue now, flowing from her head to its extremities. The wounds, while not all gone, disappeared as new fur grew over them. It made her look a little odd because the fur wasn't the same color as before. It was a lighter blue that contrasted against the deeper shade that was her original fur color. I didn't dare move my arm from where it was. It was highly doubtful that I was actually having any important part of this at this point, but no use in gambling on that. Her eyes fluttered open, a groan escaping Suicune's lips.

"What happened?" she asked. She turned to face me, and she stood up suddenly. "Shard!"

I raised an eyebrow, but she nuzzled me. "Thank you!" she exclaimed. "I don't know what you-"

"Don't really thank me." I said, gently pushing her away from me.

"But why?" she demanded. "You saved me!"

"No." I said, frowning. "I'm fixing something that the creators of this world left broken. I'm just making things right. You should notice that things might be a little different from now on."

"What do you mean?" she asked.

"Your mane is a different color now, and so are patches of your fur." I pointed out. "The blue and purple make an interesting combination at the very least."

She looked at herself as best she could. "At least I'm not in pain anymore." she said.

I nodded. "That's good to hear."

"What are your plans now, Shard of Arceus?" she asked.

"Hopefully go to where the Rayquaza said we can finish this. Some castle of-"

"Truth and Ideals." she finished. I stared at her and her eyes widened. "How did I know that? I've never heard of such a place before."

"Memories of the previous one." I said with a shrug. "But yeah, there. Hopefully everything works out sooner rather than later."

She smiled at me. "You brought peace to me and helped the previous Prime finally move on. If anyone could do it, it would be you, Shard."

I didn't know how to feel about that. She took a few slow steps, as if getting used to walking once more. Suicune smiled, rubbing her head against my hand.

"Will I see you again?" I asked.

"Hopefully." she said. "I will do my best to convince others that you are trying to help us all. No one may believe me, but we will help you in any way we can."

She shifted her eyes away from me. "I am sorry that what I did caused you to lose one of your precious friends." she said. "If I was stronger, I could have done something to stop him!"

I shook my head. "I miss Spirit, but things will work out in the end. I don't know how, but I'm not going to hold a grudge against you over something you had no direct control over."

She smiled at me. "Thank you." she whispered. Before I could respond, she leaned her head back and howled. Other howls joined hers, a flurry of snow slowly obscuring her body from me. Something grabbed me by my hand , something wet and sharp pressing against my skin. I looked down to see Akalia tugging at my hand. I stood up and let her lead the way towards Joy, Jon, and Fern.

"What's going on?" Joy asked.

"We're done here." I answered calmly.

"What about Suicune?" Jon asked.

"We're safe." I said, dismissing his fears. "Just follow me."

It didn't take that long for the snow to stop falling. To possibly Jon's surprise, we weren't surrounded by Suicune or some other Pokémon trying to kill us or something. The snow didn't slow us down too much, and the Rayquaza met up with us.

"Shard!" West shouted from up above. She flew down, aligning herself on the ground. A few other Rayquaza, smaller than West, landed alongside her.

"We apologize, Shard. We were attacked by the Suicune!" she exclaimed. "When we meet, again, I'll make them regret this day!"

"You can stop now." I said, shaking my head. "They won't be attacking us anymore."

She didn't stop us as we continued past her and the other Rayquaza. "How do you know?" she asked.

"I put the previous Prime to rest." I said.

Silence followed that. I didn't bother to see how she was reacting to that news. We had Pokémon that needed immediate medical care, and stopping here wasn't going to make them any better.

"Joy." I called.

"Yeah?"

"Do we have any more of that medicine stuff that you made?"

"Yeah, just not with me."

"Cool. We're probably going to run through it, but let me know when you go picking some more herbs. I'll go with you."

She giggled at that. "The mighty Shard of Arceus going to pick flowers?"

"Hey, I don't go judging what you like or not." I said.

"I know." she said.

"Gag me, please." Jon muttered.

Joy began laughing, and it quickly spread to me. Jon sighed as we laughed for a while longer as we walked back towards where all this craziness started today.

=====================/////////////////////////========================

"I had her." Zin muttered.

"Yes, dear, you did." I said, applying a bit more potion to her wounds. "How are you feeling?"

"Better." she admitted. "My could do with a belly rub, though."

I sighed good-naturedly. "Sure." I said, putting down the potion and turning my attention to the Houndoom. A sigh escaped her as my fingers scratched whatever unseen itch that plagued her. Since she was laying on my lap, her warmth slowly became slightly uncomfortable. Thankfully it was a relatively cold morning, so it wasn't all that unwelcome.

"Better?" I asked.

"More." she whimpered. "Don't stop, please."

I sighed, but did as she asked. Her panting was loud and her breath kinda smelled. Though that just told me that she was healthy and not much else. She was spoiled as fuck, though I'm pretty sure that she would be the first to admit such a fact.

"Zin."

"Yeah?"

"About yesterday."

She stopped, wriggling out of my lap to stand up on her legs. Her tail lashed side to side. I ignored the fact that she was sticking her butt out.

"Maybe I was wrong to say what I said, alright?" I said. "I just don't get it. All I wanted was to keep you all safe."

"We get that. We all do." she said. "What we want YOU to know is that we don't give a damn about that. You're our trainer! I, for one, would rather die than see you be threatened by some fucking bullshit because it's convenient for them."

I stared at her. She turned around, her lips pulled back in a snarl. Her eyes stared right mine. "Do you get that? I love you so damn much! How can you even think of turning us away? After all we've been through?"

I opened my mouth to say something, but she silenced by one of her paws. "Don't talk right now. Listen, dammit! We're going to go through with this, we're going to finish whatever it is that will make you normal, and then we're going in a real adventure! None of this hiding in the shadows since we have the sons and daughters of Arceus after your backs."

She huffed. "So yeah, enough is enough! I'm putting my paw down and I don't want you to say ANYTHING about this, alright?"

I nodded. She dropped her paw from my lips, and I leaned forward to kiss her lips. Any complaints that she might have had stayed in her head. Her mouth was hot and her tongue wanted entry inside my mouth. I teased her, though, pulling away.

"I just wanted to keep you safe, that's all." I said.

"Then keep us safe." she said, rubbing against me. "Do you really want to make Song cry? Again, probably? You know that leaving her back in that temple place probably wasn't easy for her."

I nodded. "Yeah, I get what you're saying." I said. "I think I've learned my lesson."

"Good." she said. "I don't have to sick Akalia after you. Or worse, Aurora."

I laughed, then realized that she was serious and shut my mouth. Her teeth flashed in my face. In response, I began scratching behind her horns. Her tongue lolled out immediately as she sank back down into my lap. Joy appeared at this time, laughing softly and sitting next to me.

"I guess you have a way with Pokémon." she said.

"Only when we have a way with him, lady." Zin said.

Yeah, leave it to Zin to say something like that. "What's up?" I asked.

"The Rayquaza say that we can leave the day after tomorrow." she said. "With the Suicune helping to divert attention from us, it'll become a piece of cake to reach Unova."

I nodded, letting this new information sink in. "How is Unova, by the way?" I asked. "Like, what was your experience like?"

She nodded, smiling at me. "It was nice." she said. "The people seemed a lot more friendlier than other regions I've been to. They're a little bit more open to what you do with your Pokémon compared to others."

I blinked, surprised by this new information. "Oh." I said, feeling my body warm up. It was highly doubtful that it was just Zin doing that.

"Oh REALLY now." Zin said, her tail wagging to and fro again. "Just HOW much open."

"Not as open as you'd like, you pervert." Joy said with a laugh. "It's not like it's openly done. It's just that it's not frowned overall throughout the region. Some people do it, others don't. Generally, it's regarded as a 'don't ask, don't tell'."

Zin nodded. "Makes sense, more than these other places where it's punished and stuff."

"Some people don't understand that Pokémon are individuals." I said. "It just sounds like that the ones with the power are like that. Doesn't mean everyone in Kanto and Johto are like that, too."

Zin nodded. "So, they just have really old pack leaders that need to be replaced. Simple!"

I rolled my eyes. "Well, I doubt it's as simple as that, but yeah."

The Houndoom gave a laughing bark. "Doesn't matter either way." she said. Her gaze landed on my leg. "Sorry for biting you."

I shrugged. "Thankfully it doesn't hurt right now. I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing, though."

"Good thing." she said. "It means that I'm content where I am."

"Great. Now you can use pain as a means to get what you want."

"Don't give her ideas!" Joy said, punching me in the shoulder.

Zin laughed. "Don't worry. I would never do such a thing."

"Tauros shit and you know it!" Joy accused.

Zin rolled on the ground, belly up and adopted an innocent look on her face. "Cute little old me?" she asked.

Arceus above, I don't think this will ever end. "Zin."

"What?"

"Come here."

She walked over to me, tilting her head to the side. My hands went for her horns, holding both of them as I brought her muzzle to my lips. She stiffened for a moment but practically melted after a few more moments. Joy cleared her throat.

"I can tell that you two are BUSY." she said in a serious tone. After a moment, she laughed. "I'll make sure to keep everyone away from you all. Though don't be surprised if the Rayquaza ask questions."

I pulled away from Zin, the Houndoom looking like her dreams were coming true. Joy poked her in the forehead and grudgingly getting her attention.

"Don't be too loud." Joy warned. "And don't set fire to stuff. I don't want to explain to Jon that you and Aaron set fire to the area because you couldn't control your orgasm."

At least Zin had the decency to look sheepish at that. She nodded, though, taking the advice. "Yeah, that would be bad."

"Don't leave me here." I said.

Joy laughed. "Don't pretend like you don't enjoy it, pervert." she chided. "Besides, it would do the both of you good to get whatever's bugging the both of you out of your systems."

"Angry sex?" I asked. "That's a thing now?"

"If it isn't, it is now."

Joy stood up, offering me no sympathy for my situation. If anything, she set me up to be in it! Though I suppose it was true that I wouldn't enjoy it.

"I suggest you don't struggle too much." she said, placing a paw on my chest. "Lay down."

I did as I was told, watching Joy walk away like nothing was happening behind her. Zin nuzzled my face, making me face her instead.

"You. You're mine now." she whispered in my ear. "And you can bet your skin that I'm going to claim you for everything you got."

A shiver went down my spine as her teeth bit around my neck. It only help excite me further. Her paws rubbed against my chest. If I didn't do anything, she was going to rip this shirt apart. At the rate I was going, I was going to run out of shirts. She pulled away from me just so I could take it off, but jumped back on me possessively as soon as I did.

"Mine." she growled. She kissed me again. "And don't you ever forget it."