{"sf1_id":132704,"sf2_id":"0mvLEWA1","title":"Dimensional Balance Chapter 7: The Observer","author":"Arcane Reno","words":8041,"posted_at":"2010-03-19T04:29:00.000Z","tags":["Arcanine","Cuddling","Eevee","Fight","Human","Jolteon","Kissing","Magic","No-Yiff","Non-Anthro","Pokemon","Story Progression","Transformation"],"url":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/132704-dimensional-balance-chapter-7-the-observer","original_url":"https://sofurry.com/s/0mvLEWA1","image_url":"https://cdn.sofurryfiles.com/submissions/thumbnails/6f/2f/6f2ffb50-eb6a-4fc4-8ada-4f465169612f","description":"#7 of Dimensional Balance: A Trainer's Tale","content":"\u0026nbsp;\n\n_Author's note: Well, actually managed to get this chapter out on time! \u0026nbsp;These things are getting as long as stand-alone stories now. \u0026nbsp;No yiffiness in this chapter, so it's safe for all :P \u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_I don't own pokemon or any of the subsequant copyrights. \u0026nbsp;Shawn and all other original characters are mine though._\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_Thanks to Vicious Reader for proofing._\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_P.S. \u0026nbsp;I now has banner!\u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n**Chapter 7**\n\n**The Observer\u0026nbsp;**\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nCheri firmed her stance, her lips drawing back over her fangs in a slight snarl as she faced off against her mate. \u0026nbsp;Shawn stood calmly, a slight breeze ruffling his clothing as he held his sword in a two handed grip. \u0026nbsp;The two combatants were about twenty feet apart, the sandy ground between them the only witness to their conflict. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nMaking the first move, Cheri drew deep on the inferno inside of her, unleashing a long Flamethrower attack at Shawn. \u0026nbsp;He smiled slightly, unperturbed, and the attack suddenly evaporated before it struck. \u0026nbsp;There was a small whoosh of air, then a loud report, and a wall of flames sprang up from the ground. \u0026nbsp;The crackling blaze sped towards her, and she leaped sideways, sliding slightly as she dodged it with ease. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe yelped as the flame wall twisted in its trajectory, speedily wrapping in from behind and burning against her fireproof fur. \u0026nbsp;The attack didn't do much damage, but the shock of being attacked by her mate was enough to push her into full battle mode. \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nWith a growl, she ran forward, away from the dying flames, and sprayed a Fire Blast at the human. \u0026nbsp;He met this with an explosive burst of his own, his offensive meeting hers and separating it. \u0026nbsp;The residues of her attack passed by him, the two fireballs cancelling each other out in a small explosion. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe used the opportunity to press forward, charging up a Fire Fang. \u0026nbsp;She was met by a burning whip extending from Shawn's sword, flailing her side and tangling in her legs. \u0026nbsp;She was pulled to the ground by the odd, feathery weapon, and used another Flamethrower to beat the attack away.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nJumping up, she leaped towards her foe, using Agility to increase her speed. \u0026nbsp;He stepped back, parrying her Bite with his sword, her fangs clanging uselessly around the metal. \u0026nbsp;In a continuous motion, he spun around, keeping her at bay, throwing her off with the centrifugal force. \u0026nbsp;She landed on all fours, facing him still, and unleashed another Fire Blast.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe threw himself to the side, and suddenly, the ground beneath her feet rumbled. \u0026nbsp;That was all the warning she had, sending her scrambling backwards as fast as she could, as the earth _exploded_ in front of her. \u0026nbsp;A fountain of flame passed through where she had been standing, the glowing pillar of lava reaching up towards the sun. \u0026nbsp;Shawn was hidden behind the eruption, and she ran sideways to try and keep an eye on him. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe lava fountain pulled out of the ground, leaving a smoking crater. \u0026nbsp;Somehow, it didn't fall. \u0026nbsp;It maintained its shape, writhing like a radiant snake in midair. \u0026nbsp;Shawn had his sword raised above his head, and the blazing column swirled down around him. \u0026nbsp;She let loose another Flamethrower, but it just deflected off the molten tentacle. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn lashed out with it, and she barked as the overwhelming attack crashed against her aura and swept her sideways, forcing the air from her lungs with the impact. \u0026nbsp;Even with her natural resistance to fire, it was draining her strength. \u0026nbsp;She rolled to her feet, shaking a few stray drops of molten metal out of her fur as she prepared for another pass. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn was forced to drop the lava stream as it cooled rapidly, the metallic crust forming on it making it too rigid to flip around. \u0026nbsp;Cheri sallied with a Flamethrower, and Shawn was forced to parry it with his blade, flames springing up along it to cancel the fire attack. \u0026nbsp;She pushed harder, digging down and drawing out the assault as long as she could.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nA look of concentration broke into Shawn's cool façade, and suddenly she was bowled over by a rush of flames from the side. \u0026nbsp;She growled fiercely as she got back up, starting to feel slightly chilled as her energy stores were cut into. \u0026nbsp;She tensed, drawing into her reserves as she flew towards him with a Take Down. \u0026nbsp;She couldn't go down like this! \u0026nbsp;She had to break through his defences and bring him down! \u0026nbsp;She would show him her strength!\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n**\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; Two** days earlier, the little group had woken up well rested in their room at the pokécentre. \u0026nbsp;Cheri had curled up around Kirin and Hina at the end of the bed, the large fire type rumbling contentedly as the two Eevees snuggled against her. \u0026nbsp;Shawn had once more performed the lactation spell on Cheri for Hina's benefit before going through his own morning ritual. \u0026nbsp;After feeding the others with the usual mix of pokémon fare, he had returned all but Cheri to their balls, the Arcanine still preferring to journey alongside her mate. \u0026nbsp;He then proceeded downstairs with her to get his own breakfast, and kept half an eye on the TV as he ate. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThey were showing a news report live from Veilstone city, and Shawn dropped his fork with a clatter. \u0026nbsp;\"You have got to be kidding me,\" he exclaimed. \u0026nbsp;\"I just left there, and now THIS!?\" \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"What is it?_\" Cheri asked, as her attention had been more on the bacon on his plate than the TV. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe stabbed a finger at the screen, half annoyed and half amused at the timing.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"An unknown benefactor has funded a massive construction project,\" the announcer was saying. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn snorted. \"Wonder who THAT could be...\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"This new space centre will be a cornerstone in the changing face of Veilstone,\" \u0026nbsp;the newswoman continued. \"And the mayor has presented their representative with a commemorative plaque, and a street named in their honour.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe scene switched to a zoomed in view of a street sign, GALACTIC AVE written on it in bold letters. \u0026nbsp;Panning out, the camera showed an older man in a suit handing a plaque to a woman dressed in a white and black bodysuit. \u0026nbsp;Her hair was a vibrant pink, and the endearing smile on her face looked like it was held there by sheer force of will.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Remember the guys I was telling you about? \u0026nbsp;Well, that's one of them. \u0026nbsp;Commander Jupiter,\" he said\n\n. \u0026nbsp;\n\nCheri nodded, having been given an overview of what he was trying to accomplish. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_'So much for having at least a year to prepare'_, he thought. _\u0026nbsp;'It seems events are moving faster than anticipated_.'\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\"Well, they still haven't built the thing, so there's still no rush,\" he said aloud. \u0026nbsp;\"But we're going to have to keep a close eye on them, Team Galactic will be moving a lot more openly now. \u0026nbsp;\" \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nFinishing up, he grabbed his things, Cheri happily snapping down the piece of bacon he had saved for her. \u0026nbsp;The two of them stepped out into the little town, Shawn deciding to take the time to look around a bit before moving on. \u0026nbsp;The ruins outside the town intrigued him, even if they didn't contain any pokémon he was interested in capturing. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHeading in that direction, he passed by the daycare, pausing briefly to watch the pokémon playing inside the grounds. \u0026nbsp;Cheri pressed her nose up to the fence, watching two small Shinx wrestling and chasing each other around. \u0026nbsp;A smiling old man standing nearby waved at Shawn to get his attention. \"Interested in having us raise a pokémon for you? \u0026nbsp;Just head on in and talk to my wife.\"\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn smiled back and shook his head. \"Nope, just having a look. \u0026nbsp;You guys seem pretty busy right now anyways.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe old man nodded. \"Yes, there are quite a few young trainers in this town without the experience to raise pokémon themselves. \u0026nbsp;We help them by getting the pokémon ready to assist them on their own journeys.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn nodded in reply, before touching Cheri lightly on the shoulder to indicate that they should move on. \u0026nbsp;She heeled him happily, fluffy tail waving slightly in the air and her head held high. \u0026nbsp;He gave the man a salute as he passed, eliciting a chuckle and a \"Good luck!\" \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nOn their way towards the ruins, they passed a small kiosk selling Moomoo milk. \u0026nbsp;Shawn decided to pick up a few bottles, as the nutritious drink would be good for Hina. \u0026nbsp;Curious about how they stored it without refrigeration, he questioned the girl selling it. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Oh, the Miltank produce heavy doses of natural preservatives, that's part of what makes it so healthy,\" she said. \u0026nbsp;\"You can carry this stuff around for weeks before it goes bad, and its packed with energy.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe bought four bottles. \u0026nbsp;Even with the lightweight plastic packaging, they still created a heavy weight in his bag, making him wish he could use his storage pocket. \u0026nbsp;The girl also handed him a pamphlet, \"Here, you should check out Hearthome contests. \u0026nbsp;You could enter your Arcanine.\" \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe took the small booklet with a shrug and a nod of thanks, leafing through it as he walked away.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Contests?_\" Cheri asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Yes, they have several different categories, but the concept is the same for all of them. \u0026nbsp;You are judged on appearance, communication with your trainer through dance, then ability.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nA man gave him a strange look as he passed, and Shawn made a mental note to switch back to English, even with so few people around. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"That sounds really fun!_\" Cheri said. \u0026nbsp;\"_Can we try that?_\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn glanced at her, she had a hopeful expression on her face. \u0026nbsp;\"Really? \u0026nbsp;You really want to do that?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHer tail drooped slightly, _\"Well, not if you don't want to...\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn thought for a moment. \u0026nbsp;He didn't have any interest himself, but there was really no reason NOT to do it. \u0026nbsp;It wasn't like he had any urgent location in mind yet. \u0026nbsp;\"Well, if it's something you want to do, than we can check it out.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Oh really? \u0026nbsp;Thanks Master Shawn_!\" she said, licking his hand happily as she perked back up. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe smiled at her, wondering why she wanted to enter a contest so badly. \u0026nbsp;It suddenly hit him like a ton of bricks as he recalled her words from when they first met. \u0026nbsp;Strength was extremely important to mated Arcanine pairs, and he had yet to use her in a battle. \u0026nbsp;She was looking for a way to prove herself to him. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"You sure are in a good mood today,\" he said conversationally.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Why wouldn't I be? \u0026nbsp;I'm with my mate, and our pups are safe and as happy as they can be.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe smiled, ruffling her headfur, \"That they are. \u0026nbsp;And I'm glad I have you to help me take care of them. \u0026nbsp;Although, Kirin is almost fully grown.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Yes, she is, but she still will miss her mother for awhile. \u0026nbsp;She is only just of mating age, and wasn't yet ready to set out on her own.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What about Hina? Can you understand anything she says?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_No, not yet. \u0026nbsp;But according to what Kirin said last night, she did use a real word or two. \u0026nbsp;It won't be long before she's talking normally. \u0026nbsp;At that age, pokémon grow REALLY fast.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe nodded, and they walked on in silence as they reached the edge of the tiny town. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n**The** ruins were a bit smaller than expected, and it didn't take long for Shawn to make his way through them. \u0026nbsp;They reminded him slightly of some of the Mayan temples down in Mexico, with their symmetrical construction and strange carvings. \u0026nbsp;There were plenty of the bizarre Unown pokémon around, going about their own business. \u0026nbsp;They were used to humans being around, and ignored them completely as they set about their mysterious purposes. \u0026nbsp;Shawn left them alone, the only conflicts in his exploration being a couple of quick battles with some hikers. \u0026nbsp;Marty dispatched the rock types that the outdoorsmen favoured with ease, and it was only a couple hours before he was back out in the sun. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nAs he and Cheri stepped out of the darkened tunnel, Shawn almost ran over another trainer who was standing stock still just outside. \u0026nbsp;The colour had drained out of the teenager's face, leaving him looking pasty and ill.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Are you okay?\" Shawn asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"D..d-d-didn't you see it?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"See what?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"A g-g-ghost! \u0026nbsp;It came right through here!\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn glanced behind him, seeing nothing but an empty tunnel. \"No, I didn't see it. \u0026nbsp;But you shouldn't worry about it, ghosts can't hurt you.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe trainer shook his head, before turning and running back in the direction of the town. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I didn't see anything either,_\" Cheri said\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn shrugged. \"I'm sure he saw something, but I doubt it's anything to worry about. \u0026nbsp;Anyways, let's get moving.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe pair continued back the way they had come, passing once again through Solaceon on their way towards Hearthome. \u0026nbsp;With a brief stop back at the pokécentre to heal Marty completely, they resumed their journey.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n**\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;Cheri** flew towards Shawn, bracing herself for the self damaging tackle, when she suddenly felt her progress halt as an invisible force grabbed her. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Hey, no fair,_\" she complained, her legs pedaling uselessly in the air. \u0026nbsp;_\"You said you were only going to use fire..._\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I know, but it's time to stop,\"_ he replied. \u0026nbsp;_\"Your aura is getting too low, I don't want to risk actually hurting you.\"\u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe let out a loud harrumph as she was lowered gently to the ground by the invisible hand. \u0026nbsp;_\"I can keep going! \u0026nbsp;We don't have to stop sparring.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn sighed, sheathing his sword as he moved closer to her. \u0026nbsp;Taking her head in his hands, he said, _\"Cheri, you shouldn't push yourself. \u0026nbsp;It's alright, I was able to test your abilities just fine.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"No!\"_ She snapped, pulling back. _\"It's not alright! \u0026nbsp;I need to...I need to show you how strong I can be!\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"You ARE strong, and you are only going to get stronger!\"_ he replied, pulling her into a hug. \u0026nbsp;\"_You don't have to 'prove' anything to me. \u0026nbsp;I love you just as you are. \u0026nbsp;Getting yourself injured in a sparring match isn't going to accomplish anything!\" \u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe snuggled into the hug, confused emotions racing through her. \u0026nbsp;She had to be strong for him! \u0026nbsp;She had to! \u0026nbsp;But... there was clearly no way for her to beat him in a fight. _\u0026nbsp;\"Do you really mean that?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Of course I do! \u0026nbsp;You are indeed strong. \u0026nbsp;You resisted several extremely potent attacks, and then kept pressing me. \u0026nbsp;There is no shame in being tired, or in stopping. \u0026nbsp;I forced you to stop after all, I could never bring myself to hurt you. \u0026nbsp;That's why I was only using fire, I don't want to take that risk._\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Oh, Shawn!\"_ she exclaimed, tackling him to the ground and licking his face. _\u0026nbsp;\"Oops, I mean, Master._\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe chuckled, doing his best to hold off her assault, _\"It's okay, I'm not too sticky on the whole title thing.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Maybe not, but it's proper. \u0026nbsp;Besides, you truly are my master...and my mate._\" This last was said in a more sultry tone, as her tongue started to press insistently against his lips. \u0026nbsp;He allowed her access to his mouth, and their tongues wrestled playfully as she murred into the intimate gesture. \u0026nbsp;She gazed into his eyes lovingly. \u0026nbsp;He truly did care for her! \u0026nbsp;He had said he loved her! \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe growled softly as he pulled back, beginning to press her body against his. \u0026nbsp;_\"You know, just because I'm not in heat...\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe pushed her back with a bit of a sigh._\u0026nbsp;\"I know, I know, and believe me, I'd love to. \u0026nbsp;But this isn't the time. \u0026nbsp;We have more work to do still.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe huffed in disappointment, but allowed him to sit up and brush himself off. \u0026nbsp;Later then. \u0026nbsp;He WAS going to make good on his promise.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe sat back on her haunches as he sat cross legged, facing her. \u0026nbsp;The spot they were in was partway between Solaceon and Hearthome, and a perfect location for a fire based conflict. \u0026nbsp;The many sand pits eliminated the risk of causing a blaze by accident, and it was off the path enough that no one would bother them. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Okay, now we truly begin your training,\"_ he said. _\u0026nbsp;\"Sparring with you allowed me to analyze how you react to different situations, as well as giving me a better idea of the kind of moves you know. \u0026nbsp;With that, we can start working on ways for you to get even stronger.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHer countenance fell slightly._\u0026nbsp;\"I still don't think I did all that well.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"You did just fine. \u0026nbsp;Like I said, you took hits from some powerful attacks, so right away, that tells me that you have quite a bit of stamina. \u0026nbsp;Also, your Fire Blast and Flamethrower attacks generated an impressive amount of heat. \u0026nbsp;We're going to look at making them even stronger.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe laid down on her belly, ears perking at the praise, listening intently. He scooted himself forward a bit, scratching her behind the ears as he talked. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"See, now this is the important part. \u0026nbsp;Fire is a bit different from the other elements. \u0026nbsp;It doesn't require manipulation of physical matter. \u0026nbsp;It is purely energy based. \u0026nbsp;You need to think of your power not as fire, but as heat.\"_ \u0026nbsp;She melted into the treatment as his agile hands massaged her, doing her best to focus on his words as she rumbled in pleasure. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_You know, the way you're going with this rubbing and talk of heat, I'm beginning to think you've changed your mind...\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe laughed, giving her scruff a playful shake.\u0026nbsp;_\"Not that kind of heat you horny girl! \u0026nbsp;Heat energy. \u0026nbsp;One of the three elements of fire.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe sighed, continuing to enjoy the scratching as he resumed. \u0026nbsp;\"_You see, to make fire, you need three things. \u0026nbsp;Heat, fuel and oxygen. \u0026nbsp;Fire pokémon, and myself in most cases, bypass the fuel step by using the air itself. \u0026nbsp;Fire types store massive amounts of heat energy inside themselves, which is why your internal body temperature is so high. \u0026nbsp;That energy is what you use to attack, and also feeds your aura. \u0026nbsp;That's why when you start to get tired, you feel cold, and it takes time or an energy recharge from a potion or revitalizing machine to restore your spent energy.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nCheri nodded. \u0026nbsp;Some of this she had at least a vague idea about, although she'd never heard it laid out in detail before. \u0026nbsp;It seemed that her mate was knowledgeable as well as powerful. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"When you release a fire attack, you are burning the very oxygen in the air as fuel. \u0026nbsp;Not an easy thing to do. \u0026nbsp;Generally, quite a bit of the energy escapes in this process. \u0026nbsp;Also, it can be affected by changes in the air itself. \u0026nbsp;Do you remember seeing your first attack vanish before it hit me? \u0026nbsp;That's because I moved the air molecules in front of it to protect myself. \u0026nbsp;With nothing to burn, the attack evaporated. \u0026nbsp;The bang you heard was the air rushing back into place. \u0026nbsp;You won't have to worry about other pokémon being able to do that, but you may see Flying types using things like Gust to block your fire.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe paused briefly, catching his breath from the long explanation before continuing. \u0026nbsp;_\"So, in order to beef up your attacks a bit, it's really just a matter of control. \u0026nbsp;You already have the raw power inside you. \u0026nbsp;The main thing you need to work on is making sure you aren't letting any stray heat out when you make an attack. \u0026nbsp;Any heat that escapes is heat that could be going into your attack. \u0026nbsp;Really PUSH that energy forward, and you'll even be able to break through a wind attack. \u0026nbsp;Focus is the key, as it is with most things. \u0026nbsp;Once you start to lose focus, your control slips, and energy escapes unused.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nCheri absorbed this information thoughtfully. \u0026nbsp;She had never thought of it that way. \u0026nbsp;Heat, not fire. \u0026nbsp;She had always assumed she had actual fire inside her somewhere. \u0026nbsp;Drawing slightly on her inner power, she examined it closely, really _feeling_ what it was made of. \u0026nbsp;She released the energy as a small ember attack, and was surprised at the power of the glowing coal of energy that appeared in front of them. \u0026nbsp;Shawn jumped with a yelp as the attack caught the hem of his jeans, and she felt a rush of air as he put the fire out quickly.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Oh! \u0026nbsp;I'm sorry, I didn't think it would do that!\"_\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;she said guiltily.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe rubbed her shoulders, a slight singe mark on his pants, but otherwise no harm done. _\"It's okay, I got it in time. \u0026nbsp;See what I mean though? \u0026nbsp;That was more powerful than you are used to.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe nodded, happy that he wasn't angry with her. \u0026nbsp;_\"What about my other types of attack though?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe sighed.\u0026nbsp;_\"That...is going to be a bit trickier to explain. \u0026nbsp;I think I'll let the others out too to hear this. \u0026nbsp;It's relevant to their training too.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n**Shawn** unsnapped the other three balls from his belt, releasing Marty, Kirin and Hina.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Time for some group training,\"_ Shawn said. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Oh, are we going to spar some more finally?\"_ Marty asked.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Not today,\"_ he replied, drawing a disappointed _\"Awww\"_ from Marty. \"_But, Cheri was asking to learn about Normal and Dark attacks, so that's why I want all of you to hear this.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHina had immediately scampered over to Cheri, and was purring as she snuggled against the warm fur of the Arcanine. \u0026nbsp;\"Veee? Eeevvveee?\" she said, followed by some more of her gibberish.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_She's asking if it's time for more milk already. \u0026nbsp;I doubt she's that hungry yet, because she's been in her ball all day. \u0026nbsp;I think she wants a drink anyway though_,\" Kirin said.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn nodded. \u0026nbsp;He wasn't sure how much the younger Eevee was going to understand, but it didn't hurt to have her hear what he was going to say anyways. \u0026nbsp;Digging into his bag, he pulled out one of the collapsible dishes and one of the bottles of Moomoo milk. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"Here,\" he said, pouring some of the milk out. \u0026nbsp;\"Try this.\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHina sniffed it curiously, then began eagerly lapping up the nutritious snack.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn set the bowl down for her, and prepared to continue the lesson. \u0026nbsp;\"_Okay then...Oh! \u0026nbsp;One last thing before I go on about other attacks. \u0026nbsp;Marty, can you demonstrate the special technique I taught you please?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nMarty nodded, a look of intense concentration coming over his face. \u0026nbsp;A sphere of water began forming in front of him, much faster than before. \u0026nbsp;He had improved with the technique significantly, as the sphere held its shape almost perfectly. \u0026nbsp;He began manipulating it, swirling it around in the air, before stopping its motion and condensing it. \u0026nbsp;He almost managed to hold onto it, but it popped before he could complete the move. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_That is a special move I taught Marty, one that is only to be used in an emergency. \u0026nbsp;I've already told you that our journey could become dangerous, and I want you all to be prepared for that. \u0026nbsp;I'm not particularly concerned about you Cheri, as most of your moves can be deadly already. \u0026nbsp;However, there is one thing I can show you that could give you a...surprising edge, if it came to that. \u0026nbsp;Once more Marty.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nAgain, the Marshtomp formed the shimmering sphere of water, and began to move it through the air. \u0026nbsp;Suddenly, ice crystals formed on the surface of the sphere, and in a matter of seconds, it froze solid. \u0026nbsp;Marty released the attack in surprise, and the ball of ice dropped to the ground with a heavy thump. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"You see,\"_ Shawn continued, _\"it all hinges on the principle of heat. \u0026nbsp;You can not only produce it, but you can absorb it as well. \u0026nbsp;All I did was remove the heat from the water until it froze. \u0026nbsp;Give it a try. \u0026nbsp;Another one please Marty.\" \u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nOnce more, Marty produced a sphere of water. \u0026nbsp;Cheri stared at it, her canine features furrowing as she attempted to replicate the move. \u0026nbsp;Nothing happened for several long moments. \u0026nbsp;Finally, Marty lost his hold on the attack, and they all were treated to a splash of cool water as it burst. \u0026nbsp;\"_Sorry,_\" he said apologetically.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"It's okay,_\" Cheri said dejectedly, _\"I just couldn't do it! \u0026nbsp;I thought I could...feel the heat inside the water, but I couldn't get it out.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Don't worry about it, that's just something to work on later. \u0026nbsp;It's hardly an easy thing to do, so don't expect to get it on your first try,\"_ Shawn said.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"You don't expect US to be able to do that do you?_\" Kirin asked apprehensively.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"No, that's just for Cheri. \u0026nbsp;But this next part does apply to you.\" \u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nKirin nodded, walking over to stand beside her sister, who was happily licking up the last of the milk. \u0026nbsp;She began to groom her sibling, cleaning up the stray flecks of white in her fur. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Wait, what about that other thing you did? \u0026nbsp;Can you teach me that?\"_ Cheri asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"The eruption? Unfortunately, no. \u0026nbsp;That move requires Earth. \u0026nbsp;Lava is made up of melted minerals, so to manipulate it, you need Earth as well as Fire. \u0026nbsp;To my knowledge, there aren't even any existing pokémon moves that use two types. \u0026nbsp;Even though there are pokémon that are OF more than one type.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Oh, okay then,_\" she said, seeming a bit disappointed.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Don't worry Cheri, you don't even need a move like that. \u0026nbsp;Your Fire Blast can become almost as powerful, and is a lot faster.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe seemed comforted by this, and Shawn finally got back to his original intended topic.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Normal energy is a bit different, and a bit harder to explain,_\" he began. _\u0026nbsp;\"From what I've been able to figure out, it has a close relationship with Psychic and Fighting energy.\"_ \u0026nbsp;He stood up, drawing his sword and etching three circles into the coarse sand, connecting them with a line through the centre. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nTapping the top circle, he said, \"_This is Psychic energy. \u0026nbsp;It is entirely based on the power of the mind, it is known to some as spirit energy.\" \u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe pointed to the bottom circle, _\"This is Fighting energy. \u0026nbsp;It is based on the power of the body, or chi. \u0026nbsp;Normal energy falls somewhere in between. \u0026nbsp;It is a combination of Psychic and Fighting energy. \u0026nbsp;The fighting part is what gives you all the physical attacks, like Take Down, Double Slap, Mega Kick etc. \u0026nbsp;The Psychic part is what gives you all the energy based Normal attacks, like Swift, Hyperbeam, and Safeguard.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"This relation is why the three affect each other the way they do. \u0026nbsp;Fighting trumps Normal, Psychic trumps Fighting, and Psychic and Normal are equal. \u0026nbsp;However, Normal is not affected by Ghost, whereas Psychic is weak against Ghost. \u0026nbsp;Unfortunately, there isn't a whole lot I can teach you about how to use Normal energy, as I can't use it myself. \u0026nbsp;But, understanding how it works should help a bit.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What about the Dark type?\" Cheri asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn sighed, running a hand through his hair. \u0026nbsp;\"_That...is something else. \u0026nbsp;It does fall into this relation as well though.\"_ \u0026nbsp;He drew a fourth circle, beside the one representing Normal. \u0026nbsp;_\"Dark energy is...somewhat akin to Normal. \u0026nbsp;Fighting is strong against it, but it has the advantage over Psychic, as well as Ghost, which is another, more distant relation. \u0026nbsp;Normal is equal to it. \u0026nbsp;The way Dark energy works for pokémon is a bit different than how it works for me though. \u0026nbsp;It doesn't have quite the same...effects.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I don't enjoy working with Dark energy, because for me, it has an...influence. \u0026nbsp;Dark pokémon are protected against this because of their aura though, which is why I don't have any qualms about training Hina to become an Umbreon. \u0026nbsp;As for other types that use Dark attacks, they don't have an active store of the energy, so it doesn't affect them either. \u0026nbsp;Dark power is generated by negative Psychic residues. \u0026nbsp;Strong negative emotions, feelings, actions. \u0026nbsp;All of them create residues that those who use the Dark type can tap into._\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"It is a powerful form of energy, but one I must be careful using. \u0026nbsp;Since I am touching it directly with no safeguards in place, I can be affected by the negative residues. \u0026nbsp;When you channel Dark energy, the main thing to remember is power. \u0026nbsp;The more power you focus into the attack, the stronger it becomes. \u0026nbsp;That may sound like a no brainer, but it's not quite the same thing as other types. \u0026nbsp;Dark energy WANTS to be used, and the more you draw on it, the amount will increase exponentially. \u0026nbsp;The key is to have enough power to RESTRAIN it and keep it under control. \u0026nbsp;Otherwise, it will just dissipate.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nCheri nodded, _\"I think that makes sense. \u0026nbsp;I've tried to turn my Bite attack into a Crunch before, but have just had it turn into a failed attack. \u0026nbsp;Is that because I drew too much?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Yes. \u0026nbsp;If you draw more than your own power can control, it will escape you.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nKirin was looking a bit worried, _\"Are you SURE that that is completely safe? \u0026nbsp;I don't want Hina to be taking risks with something dangerous.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"For her? \u0026nbsp;Yes, it is completely safe. \u0026nbsp;Like I said, the pokémon's aura protects them completely from the negative effects. \u0026nbsp;I do not have that same protection however, which is why I avoid using it.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe nodded slowly, apparently deciding to trust his judgement. \u0026nbsp;\"_Okay, if you say so.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe sighed, \"_Kirin, I would never make any one of you do something I thought would harm you. \u0026nbsp;If I didn't know it to be safe, I wouldn't even consider training her as a Dark type. \u0026nbsp;Trust me.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe appeared reassured by this. \u0026nbsp;She finished her grooming of her squirming sister, who had returned the favour somewhat, but was now getting restless. \u0026nbsp;\"Vee?\" she said.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nKirin snorted.\u0026nbsp;_\"Yes, we were talking about you sis._\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nLooking back at Shawn, Kirin asked, \"_Now, what about my own training? \u0026nbsp;You've already indicated that you intend to have me evolve, which is what I want anyways.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_Well, I'm not going to get you to evolve unless you think you're ready.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I've thought about it a bit, and I don't see any reason why not. \u0026nbsp;I don't think I'm going to get another growth spurt, and even if I do, I'm old enough that it can come in my evolved form.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_Wait, what's this about growth spurts?_\" Shawn asked, curious.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_You didn't know? \u0026nbsp;Eevees don't grow steadily, we grow in fast spurts. \u0026nbsp;If an Eevee evolves too early however, they stop before they reach their full size. \u0026nbsp;I only have maybe one more growth spurt though, I'm pretty much an adult.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I see, interesting,_\" Shawn replied.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nReaching into his bag, Shawn pulled out the Thunderstone he had purchased. \u0026nbsp;The dark rock was striated with yellow streaks, and to him, felt like it was crackling with energy. \u0026nbsp;He placed it on the ground in front of Kirin, who looked at it for a moment before nudging it with her paw. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n**The** stone felt cool and smooth to the touch, but it also seemed to contain a throbbing energy, sending a slight shiver through her at the contact. _\"So...this is it?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"This is a Thunderstone. \u0026nbsp;If you use this, you will evolve into a Jolteon,_\" Shawn replied.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"The electric type. \u0026nbsp;That should be...interesting,_\" she said. \u0026nbsp;She didn't really have any type preference in mind for her evolution, so letting Shawn pick what he wanted for her was fine. \u0026nbsp;He appeared to have good judgement, and as long as she could stay with her sister, she was happy. \u0026nbsp;Evolving would make her stronger too.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Cool! \u0026nbsp;You're gonna evolve!_\" Marty said.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I want you to be sure you're ready to do this, there's no going back,_\" Shawn said. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe nodded. \"_Yes, I'm sure. \u0026nbsp;Once I evolve, you can start training me too right?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Yes, I can use electrical attacks, so I'll be able to teach you in that respect.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"So...how exactly do I do this?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Cheri, you've done it before, so you can probably explain better than I could.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe fire type nodded. \u0026nbsp;She had corralled Hina, and was keeping her occupied by allowing her to pounce on her paws. \u0026nbsp;_\"It's easy. \u0026nbsp;Just touch the stone and reach into it like you would reach for your own power. \u0026nbsp;Allow what's inside there to fill you._\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_Does it...hurt?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"No, you might feel a bit of a stretching sensation, but that's it.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nKirin took a deep breath, then placed her front paws on the stone. \u0026nbsp;She closed her eyes, first feeling inside herself for the comforting store of Normal energy that her mother had trained her in. \u0026nbsp;This would be the last time she would feel that same energy. \u0026nbsp;Switching her focus to the hard rock beneath her paws, she sought out the power within. \u0026nbsp;There it was! \u0026nbsp;This...this energy felt so different! \u0026nbsp;Wild, furious, spirited and...playful? \u0026nbsp;It was certainly powerful, and it felt like it would be...freeing. \u0026nbsp;Without further hesitation, she plunged in, allowing the power to enter her. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe electrical power poured into her gleefully, seeming to make every cell of her body crackle with vitality. \u0026nbsp;She didn't try to control it, it just ran rampant through her, filling her with strength. \u0026nbsp;There was indeed nothing she would describe as pain, although she could feel her body changing, feel the slight ache of growth. \u0026nbsp;Even with her eyes closed, she got the impression of bright light surrounding her. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe opened her eyes as the tempest inside her began to calm, blinking in the absence of the radiance. \u0026nbsp;It was odd, it felt like the world should look different, but it appeared the same. \u0026nbsp;Although, she seemed to be slightly larger now, judging by how Hina looked slightly smaller to her. \u0026nbsp;She looked down at herself, seeing the spiky yellow fur that now coated her. \u0026nbsp;She certainly _felt_ different. \u0026nbsp;Her body felt like it was glowing with energy, and she felt almost jittery, like she needed to run to expel the excess. \u0026nbsp;This new power, it was exhilarating! \u0026nbsp;She didn't know how to use it properly yet, but she felt like nothing could stop her. \u0026nbsp;Did all pokémon feel this way when they evolved?\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Well? \u0026nbsp;How do you like your new form?_\" Shawn asked.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShe shifted back and forth experimentally, appreciating the added muscle tone. _\u0026nbsp;\"I think I like it! \u0026nbsp;If this is what evolution is like...I can't wait for sis to feel this too!\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn smiled at her, _\"I'm glad. \u0026nbsp;That will definitely have to wait until she grows a bit more though.\" \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Of course. \u0026nbsp;But I just can't get over how excited I feel! \u0026nbsp;I feel like I could run all the way around the world!\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Yeah! \u0026nbsp;When I evolved, I felt the same way, like I could hold the entire ocean inside me!_\" Marty said, his typical grin growing even more.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nKirin returned the grin, then, impulsively, she Tackled the water pokémon, just feeling the need to expend energy.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nMarty pushed her off with a laugh, _\"Hey! We're on the same team! \u0026nbsp;You need to warn me if you want a battle!\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Alright you two, calm down. \u0026nbsp;It's getting late, so we're done with training. \u0026nbsp;No more battling tonight, even for fun.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Aww,\"_ Marty said. \u0026nbsp;_\"Not even a quick one?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nKirin pulled back a bit sheepishly, not really sure what had come over her. \u0026nbsp;She still felt the pulsing energy inside her, but it no longer felt like she would explode if she stood still. \u0026nbsp;\"_No, Master is right, it's getting late. \u0026nbsp;Besides, I wouldn't be any challenge for you.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"You will be once Trainer Shawn teaches you! \u0026nbsp;Right Master?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn smiled, \"_Yes, yes she will. \u0026nbsp;I'll make sure of that. \u0026nbsp;Can't have you getting lazy against Electric types now can I?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Marshtomp clapped his hands, seeming delighted by the prospect. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_Alright then_,\" Shawn continued. _\"Marty, can you go fill up the water bottles? \u0026nbsp;I'm going to get the tent set up. \u0026nbsp;This spot is fine to stay the night in.\"\u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nTaking the water bottles, Marty left to complete his task, as Shawn began preparing their sleeping arrangements. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n**As** the twilight set over the Sinnoh region, Shawn reclined against Cheri's slumbering form. \u0026nbsp;Even though she wouldn't admit it, the Arcanine was exhausted from their battle, and after eating had fallen asleep almost immediately. \u0026nbsp;Shawn had given Hina the rest of the bottle of Moomoo milk instead of performing the lactation spell, allowing Cheri to regain her strength. \u0026nbsp;Now, the other three were at rest in their pokéballs, and he was free to have a bit of alone time. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nHe gazed up at the darkening sky. \u0026nbsp;His little group was growing fast, even with the accelerated timeline, he was confident that they would be ready in time. \u0026nbsp;\"Better watch out Cyrus, I'm comin' for ya!\" he said to the night. \u0026nbsp;Cheri stirred beneath him at the sound of his voice, but didn't wake. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nSuddenly, he felt the oddest sensation of being watched. \u0026nbsp;He didn't move, instead using his peripheral vision to look out into the darkness. \u0026nbsp;Nothing was visible, but the sensation didn't go away. \u0026nbsp;Stealthily, he rolled up to his feet, casually walking a few steps away from the slumbering Arcanine. \u0026nbsp;He rotated slowly, still keeping up the appearance of looking at the sky as he scanned the area. \u0026nbsp;Still nothing, and the sensation stayed at his back somehow. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nDeciding to dispense with the appearance of ignorance, Shawn whirled, laying a hand on his sword and making a ball of bright light appear. \u0026nbsp;The area around his campsite lit up instantly, and he caught a brief flash of a wispy form retreating into the darkness. \u0026nbsp;\"I saw you. \u0026nbsp;Come out and tell me what you want,\" Shawn said. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThere was a moment of silence, then the wispy form reappeared, the only solid part of it being two red eyes. _\u0026nbsp;\"It seems my ruse has been discovered. \u0026nbsp;Can you please turn out the light at least?\"_\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;came an odd voice inside his head. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn allowed the ball to fade, leaving it just barely glowing enough to see the form.\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe delicate outline rippled and solidified, resolving into a Misdreavus. _\u0026nbsp;\"Much better,_\" it said into his mind. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn examined the pokémon briefly. \u0026nbsp;It wasn't very big, maybe a couple feet tall, but it was levitating, bringing it almost eye level with him. \u0026nbsp;\"Mind telling me how long you were watching me? \u0026nbsp;And why? \u0026nbsp;Who are you?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe voice chuckled, _\"So many questions. \u0026nbsp;I suppose I owe you that much at least. \u0026nbsp;I am...curious about you. \u0026nbsp;I have been watching you far longer than you think. \u0026nbsp;I know your secret.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"What do you mean, 'my secret'?\" Shawn said neutrally.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe voice chuckled again, _\"That you aren't from this world of course.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"And you know this...how?\"\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I've been watching you. \u0026nbsp;And learning from your mind. \u0026nbsp;It's okay, you don't have to pretend. \u0026nbsp;You can communicate in mind speech too.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn was a bit shocked. \u0026nbsp;This pokémon... _\"You can read my mind?\"_ he thought.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Well, perhaps not precisely. \u0026nbsp;I can hear thoughts you direct at me though, and through empathic essences, I can infer many things. \u0026nbsp;The thoughts of you humans aren't as complex to decipher as you would have yourselves believe.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Empathic essences? \u0026nbsp;I'm not sure what you mean.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe Misdreavus drifted a bit closer. \u0026nbsp;_\"When I am in-between the corporeal and ethereal plains, I can...experience Another. \u0026nbsp;I can observe, and things like emotions appear to me as scents.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThis was an odd situation for Shawn. \u0026nbsp;It had been some time since he had felt like a student rather than a teacher. _\u0026nbsp;\"I'm sorry, I don't know what these 'plains' are either.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nThe pokémon gazed at him impassively, a slight look of puzzlement coming over its face._\u0026nbsp;\"Truly? \u0026nbsp;I would expect one of your knowledge and skills to understand these things better than I. \u0026nbsp;No matter. \u0026nbsp;The corporeal plain is the one we are in now. \u0026nbsp;All things that exist in the physical world lie inside of it completely. \u0026nbsp;Ghost types mostly reside in the ethereal plain. \u0026nbsp;It overlaps the corporeal plain, but those in the ethereal plain cannot touch or interact with the things in the corporeal plain. \u0026nbsp;If one is in-between them however, they can experience the corporeal plain somewhat, although they still cannot affect it. \u0026nbsp;To do that requires merging fully into the physical world.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I think I understand now,_\" Shawn said. \u0026nbsp;This concept wasn't a new one, it had been hypothesized in the wizarding world for decades. \u0026nbsp;The names of the concept varied, from Phases, to Layers, to apparently Plains. \u0026nbsp;The study of such things fell into its own branch of wizardry, and included things such as dimensional pockets, time-slips, out of ambit crossroads, loop realities and spiritual after-images. \u0026nbsp;Hovering before him was proof that such things did indeed exist, if he had ever doubted.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_So, you have been...observing me, all this time? \u0026nbsp;Do I at least get the courtesy of knowing your name?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"I suppose it is only fair. \u0026nbsp;I am known as Sasdithareusijazzmin.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn blinked._\u0026nbsp;\"I'm sorry...can you repeat that?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Sasdithareusijazzmin.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"That's...quite the mouthful. \u0026nbsp;I don't think I can pronounce that one. \u0026nbsp;Are you a male or a female?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nIt chuckled again_, \"I am neither or either. \u0026nbsp;My kind does not reproduce the same way physical beings do. \u0026nbsp;I am whichever you perceive me to be.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn thought for a moment. \u0026nbsp;The voice was pretty androgynous, but it struck him as more feminine than masculine. \u0026nbsp;And then there was that name... \"_Do you mind If I call you Jasmine?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nIt snorted, _\"I see you have already made your own judgement. \u0026nbsp;That is fine. \u0026nbsp;My kind is not concerned with gender denotations.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Don't you have to be at least somewhat though? \u0026nbsp;I mean, otherwise how would there continue to be ghosts?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nIt...she...sighed. \u0026nbsp;_\"That is not really something physical beings need to know about, but I suppose you can be trusted with the knowledge. \u0026nbsp;Whenever a pokémon passes on, Ghost types have the opportunity to perform a...ritual. \u0026nbsp;They can take a piece of the energy from the departing spirit, and use it to procreate. \u0026nbsp;In fact, two Gastly consummated their union above the fallen form of the Eevee you tended to. \u0026nbsp;They were quite concerned that you would indeed heal her, preventing them from completing their ritual.\" \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Wait...you STEAL a piece of their spirit?\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"No, and that belief is why it is usually kept a secret. \u0026nbsp;The piece that we take is harmless, and their spirit still departs to be with Arceus on the plain of light. \u0026nbsp;Unless they are restless, in which case they will walk between the plains for a time until they find their peace.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Arceus...he is the avatar of the One in this world, isn't he.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"You would know more of that than I. \u0026nbsp;But from what I have been able to learn from you, yes. \u0026nbsp;Darkrai is his nemesis.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn nodded, processing this information. \u0026nbsp;This \"plain of light\" sounded like what he knew as Timeheart, the place of departed souls, which was accessible to wizards. \u0026nbsp;But, that would imply that beings from created dimensions went there as well? \u0026nbsp;He had always assumed that Timeheart only existed for \"real\" places. \u0026nbsp;Perhaps \"spin-off\" dimensions were just as real as other ones. \u0026nbsp;Perhaps in truth, ALL dimensions were indeed spin-offs spawned by the One and the Lone One. \u0026nbsp;What this pokémon was telling him was shaking what he thought he knew down to its very core. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nAnother thought struck him. \u0026nbsp;If there were avatars here, that meant that this dimension had already made its Choice. \u0026nbsp;But there were no wizards here...only pokémon. \u0026nbsp;So had they rejected or accepted Darkrai's offer? \u0026nbsp;Of course, if pokémon did indeed die, then that meant that they had accepted it to some extent. \u0026nbsp;But this world hadn't become one of darkness, so they hadn't gone over to his side at least. \u0026nbsp;So if the Choice had been made, was Darkrai attempting to force a second Choice? \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"What do you know of the Choice_?\" he thought.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"That is none of my concern. \u0026nbsp;You would need to discuss such matters with one of the legendaries.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nInteresting, so Jasmine was aware of what he was talking about, but not the details. \u0026nbsp;What of the humans in this world? \u0026nbsp;They had no wizards to speak for them, but they shared close ties with the pokémon. \u0026nbsp;Did that mean that the pokémon of old had acted as arbiters for the humans when the Choice was made? \u0026nbsp;In that case, their fate would be tied in with the pokémon's. \u0026nbsp;But was this current scenario a result of pure human stupidity? \u0026nbsp;Messing with forces they didn't understand? \u0026nbsp;Or was there something more sinister behind it? \u0026nbsp;Perhaps Darkrai was trying to get the humans to make their own Choice.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"So, now that I have knowledge of you, what will you do? \u0026nbsp;Will you come with me?\"_ Shawn asked. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nJasmine looked troubled, _\"I am indeed curious to observe you further. \u0026nbsp;However, I do not feel I am ready to commit myself to the corporeal plain.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"That is...disappointing. \u0026nbsp;It would be helpful to have your assistance. \u0026nbsp;I am sure you know of my mission.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n_\"Yes...but I wish to continue my wandering. \u0026nbsp;I will do my best to avoid disturbing you again until I am ready.\"_\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\nShawn didn't know what to say to this, and was silent as Jasmine began to fade from view once more, _\"I'll be waiting...\"_ he thought.\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\"_When the time comes,\"_ he heard faintly. \u0026nbsp;And with that, the Misdreavus was gone. \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n* * *\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n**Music for this chapter: \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;[http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=26001](http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=26001)**\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;[http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=26000](http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=26000)\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;[http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=26002](http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=26002)\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;[http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=25989](http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=25989)\n\n\u0026nbsp;\n\n\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;[http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=26003](http://www.partyrockpeople.com/view.aspx?id=26003)\n  \n  \n\n","series":{"name":"Dimensional Balance: A Trainer\\'s Tale","previous":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/130959-dimensional-balance-chapter-6-two-for-one.json","next":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/135298-dimensional-balance-chapter-8-it-takes-two.json"}}