Chapter 29

Meadow

Meadow jerked awake, her heart racing as she gasped for air. Beads of sweat clung to her fur, and she felt a shiver run down her spine as she recalled the nightmare that had gripped her.

In her dream, she was lost in the depths of the forest. A thick fog surrounded the area. The sound of snapping jaws and howling wolves echoed through the trees. Their yellow eyes glared at her with savage hunger, their teeth bared in anticipation of the kill.

As she ran, she could feel their hot breath on the back of her neck, their growls reverberating in her ears. Meadow tried to shake them off, to outrun them, but their pace was relentless. Their jaws snapping closer and closer. She stumbled, fell, and was trapped in a ring of snarling beasts, their eyes gleaming with malevolent delight.

Suddenly, a shadowy figure emerged from the darkness, his voice filled with cruel satisfaction. "Meadow... Meadow, why do you hide from me?" Ommni's voice was a sinister whisper that chilled her to the bone. He approached her with deliberate steps, his eyes fixed on her with a cold, calculating gaze. Meadow never felt more afraid of anyone than she was of Ommni. There was something so dark about him like he could kill her without a second thought. But that wasn't his style, no. He preferred to mentally destroy someone. To tear them down, to peel back their minds and expose them.

Meadow struggled to free herself, but the wolves held her fast, their claws digging into her flesh. She could feel her fear rising, her heart pounding in her chest as Ommni circled her like a predator stalking its prey. The smell of decay and rot filled her nostrils as he drew closer, and she felt a sense of overwhelming dread wash over her.

Panic gripped her, and she felt herself being lifted off the ground, held by the neck in Ommni's bony grasp. Meadow watched as Ommni fixes his gaze upon her. He smirks as he enjoyed watching her struggle, the Shaymin's little legs kicked as she tried to free herself. She struggled to breathe, her vision blurring as darkness closed in around her. The terror was suffocating. Meadow wondered if she would ever escape the nightmare that had engulfed her.

"You will open the door for me, or else I will destroy everything you love. There is no escaping me Meadow, I haunt your dreams. I know everything about you. Everyone you love, belongs to me. I will break them in front of you and leave nothing but a worthless husk." Meadow feels Ommni's grip become tighter. She lets out a scream but nothing came out, she had no air left to give.

Meadow's vision becomes blurry...

Meadow's body was still shaking from the nightmare that felt too real. She could feel the phantom touch of Ommni's hand on her neck. The fear had taken hold of her completely, and she couldn't shake it off. She was terrified of falling asleep again and facing the same horrors in her dreams.

The sound of paw steps outside her tent made her heart race. Was Ommni coming for her now? But then Delphine burst in, her mouth glowing with fire, ready to defend her friend. As she saw that Meadow was alone, she calmed down, and the flames vanished.

"Meadow..." Delphine's voice was soothing, but the fear still lingered in the air. "Did he...did he come back?"

"He won't leave me alone," Meadow's voice was barely a whisper. "He's always there, tormenting me." Her tears were falling in hot streams now, and she curled up in a ball.

Delphine put her paw against Meadow's face, wiping away her tears. "You're not alone," she said firmly. "As long as I'm here, I'll never let anything happen to you. You can always count on me."

Meadow looked up at her friend, and they stared at each other for a moment. The fear was still there, but there was something else, too. Meadow felt a deep connection to Delphine, a bond that had been forged in the face of danger. For a moment, she forgot about Ommni and the nightmares and just focused on the warmth of her friend's paw on her face.

Meadow looked down at her paws, feeling guilty for causing Delphine to worry about her. Suddenly, she felt Delphine's paw on her chin, lifting her face up. Meadow was surprised, but before she could say anything, Delphine spoke, "I love you." With those three simple words, Delphine leaned in and kissed her on the maw.

Meadow was taken aback by the suddenness of the kiss, but it was not unwelcome. She felt a rush of warmth and emotion as she melted into Delphine's embrace. Their lips moved together, and Meadow felt Delphine's tongue press against hers, their saliva mixing. It was a moment of pure bliss, and Meadow felt as if she had never been more in love with Delphine than she was at that moment.

When they finally pulled apart, Meadow felt a little dizzy. "Wow," she whispered, still feeling the warmth of Delphine's kiss. Delphine nuzzled her, and Meadow felt her heart swell with affection.

"Come on, let's go eat," Delphine said, touching noses with Meadow. "I need to have something physical before I have my second meal." She winked at Meadow. "If you know what I mean."

Meadow's heart skipped a beat as Delphine's gaze shifted down to her exposed body. A flush of pink spread across her white fur. She instinctively tried to cover herself with her paws, but Delphine's gentle touch moved them aside. Delphine took a moment to appreciate the sight before her, admiring the delicate curves of Meadow's form. Meadow's breath caught in her throat as she realized she was fully exposed to Delphine's gaze. Her cheeks grew hotter and hotter, and she couldn't help but squirm under Delphine's gaze. Despite her embarrassment, Meadow found herself feeling strangely turned on by Delphine's attention.

Delphine's lips brushed against Meadow's cheek, sending shivers down her spine. "Tempting... but no, I promised to feed us first," she whispered, her voice low and sultry. Meadow's heart pounded in her chest as Delphine stepped out of the tent, leaving her alone to collect her thoughts.

"Dinner is in five minutes, make sure to wash your paws," Delphine called out to her. Meadow nodded, feeling her cheeks flush at the commanding tone of Delphine's voice. She cursed herself for being so obedient - after all, she was a General, she should be the one giving orders. But whenever she was around Delphine, Meadow couldn't help but feel submissive. She longed to let her guard down and let the fox take control.

As Meadow washed her paws, the water turned murky before being filtered and becoming crystal clear again. She glanced around her roomy tent, taking in the plush carpet beneath her feet and the gentle sound of water trickling from a small fountain. A makeshift bed of pillows and a cozy blanket beckoned to her from the corner, tempting her to crawl back in and forget all about dinner. But if she did that...

Meadow felt her mind thinking of him again, of his boney grip on her throat. She shook away the thought, she couldn't let him win. No one should be allowed to do what he's doing. This mental torture. Meadow tries to shake it off again, to get her mind together. Maybe some dinner will help, if not to give her some strength, then a chance to get her mind off Ommni.

As Meadow stepped out of the tent, she took a deep breath and let the cool night air fill her lungs. The stars twinkled above, creating a blanket of light that illuminated the forest. The sound of crickets and rustling leaves filled the air. The occasional hoot of an owl echoed in the distance.

"Thank you for having me," Meadow says, feeling grateful for Delphine's hospitality.

"Of course, my love. It's my pleasure to take care of you." Delphine replies. Meadow's nose twitched as she took in the fragrant aroma of fresh vegetables, tender meat, and the nearby fire. She was surprised by the sense of peace she felt, something she hadn't experienced since leaving Port Lore, or even her home.

"Please, have a seat and I'll get you a bowl of stew." Delphine steps away and the Drilbur helper soon returns with a steaming bowl of freshly cooked stew. The scent of it fills Meadow's lungs with warmth and she can't help but take in a deep breath. With a final bow to Delphine and her helpers, Meadow took her place at the table, eager to see what delights the night would bring.

"Thank you." Meadow takes the bowl gratefully, admiring the rich color and texture of the stew.

"Enjoy. And if you're still hungry, there's plenty more." Delphine offers with a smile.

The fire was crackling, sending warm light and shadows dancing around the campsite. The air was filled with the savory aroma of the stew, a tempting invitation to keep eating. Meadow dug her spoon into the bowl, savoring each bite as if it were the last. She tasted the richness of the beef, the sweetness of the carrots, and the tanginess of the tomatoes, all blended into a perfect harmony of flavors.

Meadow's hunger was insatiable, and her stomach growled so loud that it caught everyone's attention. The shaymin giggled sheepishly and bowed in apology before hungrily digging into the bubbling stew. Her nose nearly touched the bowl as she slurps down as much of the savory stew into her mouth. She relishes the tender meat and flavorful vegetables. She let out a satisfied burp as she gulped down the steaming broth, enjoying the unfamiliar blend of herbs and spices that tingled her taste buds.

Delphine watched her with a smile, taking in the sight of her lover enjoying the food. Meadow caught her gaze and blushed, feeling a little self-conscious. But Delphine's gaze was full of tenderness and admiration, making her feel cherished and loved.

As she ate, Meadow couldn't help but marvel at how different this experience was from her life as a General. Back then, meals were often rushed and eaten on the go, with little time to appreciate the taste or savor the moment. Here, in the company of Delphine and her friends, she could take her time and enjoy every morsel. The warmth of the fire, the comfort of the tent, the sound of Drilbur's laughter, and the sight of Delphine's gentle smile all made her feel safe and at home. For the first time in a long while, Meadow felt like she belonged somewhere.

With a contented sigh, she finished the second bowl and leaned back, patting her full belly. "That was amazing," she said, her voice laced with gratitude. "Thank you so much for this."

Delphine leaned in and kissed her cheek. "Anything for you, my love."

Meadow feels a warmth spread through her chest as Delphine's paw pats her head. It was a simple gesture, but it made her feel like she was a good girl, loved and cared for. The Shaymin couldn't help but purr softly to herself as she savored the last few bites of the delicious stew.

As they talked and ate, Meadow couldn't help but notice the way Delphine's fur shimmered in the firelight. The Vulpix was beautiful, with her cool black fur, her bright red eyes, and purplish highlights to only name a few. Meadow couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort and safety when she was near Delphine. She was such a strong Pokemon, a strong leader. Everything that Meadow wishes that she could be.

Finally, the stew was gone, and the others had retired to their tents for the night, leaving Delphine and Meadow alone by the fire. They talked about their past adventures, reliving old memories, and laughing at silly jokes. Meadow found herself lost in the moment, wishing that time could stand still so that she could stay here with Delphine forever.

Meadow and Delphine talk about what happened to the Shaymin before she reunited with each other. "So ya, I ran into the most adorable Zorua named Chip." Meadow notices Delphine's head tilt.

"A Zorua named Chip?" Delphine stops eating. "Out here?"

"Huh, why does it matter?" Meadow questions. She notices Delphine thinking. "What did he look like." Meadow describes what Chip looked like, his tan and purple fur, and how adorable he was. She talks about his personality and before long the Vulpix asks her to stop speaking. "Was there anyone else with him?"

"Ya, there was a strange white Vulpix that looked like an Eevee. I think his name was...Kyuubi. Though I could be mistaken." Meadow thinks hard. Her mind was foggy, the lack of recent sleep was getting to her. But she manages to push enough of her brain to remember the other Pokemon with them. "The other was a pink Fennekin named--"

"HATHOR?!" Delphine gasped.

"How did you know that?"

"She's, my daughter." Delphine puts her bowl down. A look of worry on her face. "I hope they didn't get themselves tied up in all this mess. If something happens to Hathor..."

"I'm sorry, I didn't know."

"It's not your fault." Delphine puts on a weak smile. "I sometimes forget how adventurous she is. She has Dolphy's curiosity and my thrill-seeking." Delphine takes a deep breath. "We'll make it through this. I must be reunited with my daughter again. That little pupper is getting an earful when I find her." Delphine chuckles.

"You want to um..." Meadow felt responsible for making Delphine upset. She was worried about her daughter now because of her. She didn't know that Hathor and Delphine were family. If she had known before...

Why can't she seem to do anything right? Maybe Ommni was right...

"If you're talking about going out and looking for my daughter..." Delphine stares into the fire. "We need to focus on defeating Ommni and the Templars. They are the threat we need to defeat now. I just pray that Hathor is ok but..." She shakes her head. "I know that I'm making the right decision to stay on this path."

"Delphine..." Meadow didn't know what to say.

As the night grew darker, the warmth of the fire diminished, and the chill of the evening air crept in. Meadow snuggled closer to Delphine, relishing in the comforting embrace of her beloved. She closed her eyes and let out a deep sigh, feeling grateful for the peace and security that she found in Delphine's presence.

"How are we going to defeat him?" Meadow's voice was laced with concern as she gazed into the flickering flames of the fire. The image of Ommni, the fearsome and powerful Pokemon, lingered in her mind, a constant reminder of the challenge they faced.

"We need to find a way to weaken his powers," Delphine replied, her tails wrapped protectively around Meadow. "No one is invincible, not even someone as arrogant as that bastard. We just need to find his weakness and use it against him."

Meadow nodded, feeling a glimmer of hope at Delphine's words. If anyone could help her defeat Ommni, it was her. Together, they could face any challenge, no matter how daunting it may seem.

"Yes, but..." Meadow began, but Delphine cut her off.

"He wants us to think he's untouchable. His power comes from the fear he's able to press on us. We'll make it his undoing," Delphine said with determination. Meadow wished she could be as confident as her beloved Vulpix.

As Meadow looked up at Delphine, she couldn't help but express her love for her. "I love you," she hummed. "Even if it's only for one more night..."

Delphine tightened her tail around Meadow, nuzzling her head. "I love you too, Meadow," she said, pressing herself closer to her. Meadow could smell the herbs on her fur, and the warmth of their embrace was so comforting. The crackling fire added to the peaceful moment, making Meadow wish it would never end. She wanted to spend the rest of her life with Delphine like this, but she knew it couldn't last forever.

Delphine had a mate, Dolphus, and they had three kits together. Meadow couldn't help but feel like Dolphus had first dibs on Delphine, even though they had a thing between them.

"What's wrong, Meadow?" Delphine asked, rubbing her cheek against Meadow's head. Meadow lets out a sigh.

"It's just that you're already taken. You and Dolphus are together. He's your mate, the father of your kits. He..." Meadow's voice trailed off, filled with uncertainty.

Delphine's response caught Meadow off guard. "He approves," Delphine said, looking directly into Meadow's eyes. Meadow couldn't help but question what she meant.

"Dolphy and I are pack Pokemon," Delphine continued. "Back when we used to be the leaders of the Dog Pack of the Highlands, we both had more than one partner. Dolphus had multiple females who had his pups, and I had my fair share of partners too. So, Meadow, you're fine." Delphine nuzzled Meadow's cheek, her words bringing a mix of reassurance and confusion. "I told you before that I'm here for you, that you don't have to be alone anymore, and I mean it. You are my wife, hear me. I'll only have one husband, and that is Dolphy, but I can and will have more than one Pokemon that I love." Delphine's voice shifted, her tone becoming more playful. "Enough with the romantic words... let's fuck."

Meadow was a little taken aback by Delphine's last words, she was so straightforward. But she had to admit, she wanted the fox's cock badly. She hears Delphine chuckling, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Well, well, looks like someone is already excited." She licks her lips.

Delphine pushes Meadow onto her back, the fox eagerly steps over the top of her. She starts licking and kissing Meadow's body cleaning up some of the dirt and dust that had gotten on Meadow's fur. Her tongue slowly works its way down the other body. Meadow feels Delphine's tongue pressing against her little nipples, flicking, and suckling on each one. The little Shaymin couldn't help but let out a squeak.

"Del-Delphine..."

"That's my girl, let it out," Delphine smirks as she licks in between Meadow's nipples. Her tongue expertly found its way down to Meadow's hindlegs where the Shaymin's little cock was already erect. Meadow touches Delphine's nose with her tip getting a bit of pre on it. The pair blush as they stare at each other for a moment.

"Sorry." Meadow murmurs.

"Why? For being adorable?" Delphine inquires. She lightly squeezes Meadow's cock and proceeds to suck on it. The fox's mouth feels just as warm as Meadow remembers. She lets out a few squeaks and presses her forepaws against her mouth, trying to keep her voice down. Meadow feels the temperature rising as Delphine wraps more and more of her mouth around her cock.

"Delphine...I'm...I'm about to...cum..." Meadow cries out as she feels her climax hit. Meadow sprays into her mate's mouth, coating it with her sweet sticky cum. She hears Delphine swallowing what she can, and an almost purring noise escapes her throat. The Vulpix licks her maw.

"Delicious," Delphine comments as she releases Meadow's cock. The Vulpix begins licking Meadow's cock repeatedly, cleaning it up. Meadow feels her still throbbing cock bouncing back and forth. Before long, Delphine finishes and lies down next to the little Shaymin.

"Feeling pooped?" Delphine asked. Meadow shakes her head.

"Why do you ask?" Meadow wonders, her little heart was still pounding in her chest.

"Because I can keep going. I'm feeling it tonight. Maybe get in that cute little tail hole of yours. Tail hole sex is the best kind of sex." Delphine suggests.

Meadow blushes, she honestly could go for having her tail hole played with. It'll be something fun to do together with her love.

"Hmm...let's go for a walk. Why don't we head down to the river? You and me, a midnight stroll. We can take a dip in the water to refresh ourselves. Then continue having more fun," Delphine suggests before kissing Meadow again.

"All right!" Meadow eagerly agrees, returning the kiss. She has never felt more attracted to Delphine than she does now.

Delphine takes the lead, guiding Meadow through the woods. The pair follow a long walking trail that leads to the riverside. The moon is high in the sky, casting enough light to illuminate the pathway and prevent them from tripping over anything. Meadow had never taken the time to realize how much magic was in the air, literally. As they walked, she noticed the mist, it was thick in some areas. The mist would change colors depending on who or what was near it.

"The mist absorbs some of your energy when you near it. That's why it changes colors." Delphine says as the area of mist she was near turned black and pink. Meadow remembered that Delphine wasn't a normal Vulpix as her typing was Dark/Fairy. "If you understand how to sense other Pokémon's energy enough you can use the mist to extend your sensory range."

"I think I understand."

"Maybe when this is all over, I can train you on how to use your magical abilities. Magic and Pokemon abilities are two different things that require different types of training. Don't feel ashamed that you know little about it." Delphine kisses Meadow's head.

They eventually make their way down to the river, where they are greeted by the sound of rushing water, chirping crickets, and a gentle breeze. Meadow watches Delphine walks down to the water.

"Oh, Delphine, you worried that it's cold?" Meadow asks as they reach the riverbank. Delphine dips a paw into the water and wipes it against her fur.

"It'll be fine, a little bit of cold will never hurt you," Delphine reassures Meadow before diving into the water. The Shaymin watches as her mate submerges and resurfaces a few feet away. The water glistens on her fur as she splashes around.

Meadow hesitates for a moment, but the allure of the cool water on her warm skin is too tempting. She takes a deep breath and plunges into the river. The water is colder than she expected, but it's refreshing and exhilarating. She surfaces, gasping for air and laughing.

"Come in, the water is fine," Delphine invites her with a mischievous grin.

Meadow smiles and swims over to her. They splash each other and playfully dunk each other underwater. Their bodies are intertwined as they float on the surface, their lips locked in a passionate kiss.

Eventually, they swim to the riverbank, where Delphine takes the lead once again. She pins Meadow down, straddling her hips, and grinds her herm cock against the Shaymin's own. Their bodies hum with pleasure as they writhe against each other.

Their intimacy is interrupted by a sudden explosion in the distance. The girls freeze, their bodies tensing with alarm. A plume of smoke rises from a spot far away, and the sound echoes through the forest.

Meadow's senses are on high alert as she feels a dark pulse emanating from the site of the explosion. She and Delphine exchanged a worried look, unsure of what to do next.

"What do you think it is?" Meadow's voice trembles with concern as she looks at Delphine, hoping for some answers. The Vulpix remains silent for a moment, her eyes fixed on a point in the distance. She takes a few steps forward, seemingly drawn by an invisible force.

"Delphine?!" Meadow's voice rises with urgency, fearing that something is amiss. Meadow feels like something is suddenly released. She puts a paw on her throat as if something had been touching it. That pressure that she felt before was as if something was holding its grip on her. It was gone...

"I sense a darkness approaching," Delphine finally speaks, her voice laced with a mix of caution and determination. Meadow is about to inquire further when her ears catch the faint sounds of voices and raised voices in the distance. They both instinctively hide in a nearby bush, their hearts pounding in their chests. Meadow's small body quivers with fear and anticipation, the unknown danger making her pulse race.

She strains her ears, trying to make sense of the commotion. The voices grow louder, and she can discern snippets of conversation and the panicked tone of those speaking. Goosebumps prickling her skin, Meadow wonders what could be happening. The explosion, the darkness, and now this chaos--it all feels too familiar, too connected.

Closing her eyes, Meadow tries to tap into her memories, searching for any hint or trace of this unsettling power she senses. In her mind's eye, an image flashes--a haunting vision of an Alakazam, its cold, clammy hand closing around her delicate neck. Or that's what she would normally feel. But that feeling that image, it was...becoming hazy as if Ommni was losing his grip. The memory grips her like a vice, and she gasps, her eyes flying open. A scream escapes her lips, echoing through the night. Even with the image becoming hazy Meadow still felt afraid of him.

Delphine's eyes widen with concern, and she wraps her tail protectively around Meadow, pulling her closer. "Meadow, what's wrong? What did you see?" she asks, her voice filled with both worry and determination to keep her mate safe.

"He's coming to get me. NNNOOOOOO!!!" Meadow's voice quivers with terror, her tears streaming down her face. She curls up into a tight ball, seeking refuge within herself. Delphine, desperate to console her mate, attempts to calm her down, but the grip of fear is unyielding. Ommni's looming presence has sparked a level of fear in Meadow that she has never experienced before.

"Hey, did you hear that?" A voice calls out from a short distance away. Delphine swiftly picks up Meadow, cradling her gently in her tails, trying her best to provide a sense of safety and security.

"Settle down, Meadow," Delphine whispers softly, her voice laced with a mixture of concern and urgency.

"He's going to get me!" Meadow's voice trembles.

"He will if you don't quiet down," Delphine replies firmly, squeezing Meadow's cheeks gently but firmly. The girls remain hidden, their eyes fixed on the source of the voices. Gradually, a large figure steps into view--a formidable Nidoking.

"I swear I heard someone nearby," the Nidoking remarks, his voice filled with a mix of suspicion and alertness. Meanwhile, a Machoke emerges from the shadows, joining the Nidoking's side.

"Tusk, are you sure we made the right decision?" the Machoke questions, his voice tinged with doubt.

"Are you questioning our choice to desert?" the Nidoking retorts, his voice filled with a hint of frustration and determination.

"A bit. The Templars won't forget this, nor will they make it easy for us to keep running. If Lord Ommni doesn't deliver on his promise of power, we could be in serious trouble," the Machoke expresses with a hint of concern. Tusk, the Nidoking, nods in agreement.

"I understand the risks. But we're in too deep now. I highly doubt that Kira will take us back easily," Tusk replies, his voice filled with determination. He shakes his head, reaffirming his belief in Lord Ommni. "We have to trust Lord Ommni."

The mention of Lord Ommni sends a shiver down Meadow's spine, and her face contorts in a mix of fear and disgust. The memories of the Alakazam's mental torture resurface, haunting her every thought. She can feel his presence, as if he is lurking nearby, aware of her existence.

"Tusk..." Meadow whispers, her voice filled with a sense of foreboding. It can only be him--Lord Ommni.

"Stay calm and conceal your presence," Delphine whispers urgently, placing a paw over Meadow's trembling mouth. Tears streamed down Meadow's face, falling onto Delphine's paw, Meadow's fear was becoming too much for her to bare.

Suddenly, Ommni emerges into view, surrounded by a dark aura that seems to radiate power and dark confidence. The Alakazam appears more formidable than ever. Meadow's heart races in her chest, fear bubbling to the surface. Unable to control herself anymore, she feels herself starting to pee, the warmth of her fear-induced accident spreading through her. Delphine lets out an annoyed growl, but she remains composed, holding Meadow close, her determination seemed to never weaver.

"If it...if this keeps you calm," Delphine whispers softly to Meadow, her voice filled with understanding and reassurance.

"I'm sorry," Meadow nods, feeling a mix of embarrassment and frustration. As a General in Arceus's army, she had faced countless battles and challenges. And yet here she was, succumbing to fear and losing control of her bodily functions. All at the sight of this bastard.

Ommni addresses Tusk, and Meadow watches as the Nidoking kneels before the powerful Alakazam. Her heart pounds in her chest as she witnesses the exchange between them.

"My Lord," Tusk responds with reverence, his head bowed in submission. Ommni places a hand on Tusk's head, a gesture of his authority and command.

"I feel my powers have weakened after casting that explosion. But rest assured. That foolish Braixen Kira will not soon forget the strength that I possess," Ommni declares, his voice laced with both arrogance and contempt. He looks at his right hand, it looked charred as if he had put it in a fire. His gaze turns to a distant memory, his disdain for a certain Braixen evident. "That Braixen... I despise him. I wish I had unleashed my attack on him, but I must fear his ability to reflect it, potentially causing trouble for all of us. He is the only one among the Templars here who poses a genuine threat to my plans."

Ommni's attention shifts to the upcoming task at hand. "Tomorrow, we shall open the path and retrieve the Grass Plate. I need you to take the lead and clear the way for my entrance, ensuring that Kira does not impede my progress."

"Yes, my Lord," Tusk replies promptly, his loyalty unwavering.

"Its becoming harder Tusk for me to keep my grip on Meadow and the other Pokemon who I've left my presence within. I hate the fact that I must use my strength to maintain the connection but alas...I have but a mortal body." Ommni takes in a deep breath. "But by gaining the Grass Plate I will be able to use its power like battery and never again will I have to use my strength on such a minor task." Ommni looks at his right hand again. "I must fight as little as possible before we retrieve the plate."

"I understand my Lord." Tusk pounds his chest. "For the cause,"

"For the cause," Ommni says though he doesn't hit his chest. "For now, I must rest. Find a suitable place for us to make camp near the entrance of the temple," Ommni orders, his hand pulsating with a dark glow that flickers intermittently. "I require rest. I need more power!"

Meadow's heart sinks as she observes Ommni's desperate yearning for greater strength. The darkness within him, both literal and metaphorical, sends shivers down her spine. She knows that they are facing an imminent and formidable threat, and the weight of the impending battle hangs heavy in the air.

"Yes, my Lord." Tusk looks behind him where Machoke was kneeling.

"Make sure they've set up the camp. I want around-the-clock watches. Kira might come looking for us and we must be ready."

"Right away sir." Machoke gets up and excuses himself. Once he was gone Ommni puts a hand on Tusk head again.

"You have done well being my faithful servant. You will be rewarded. It's not easy to go deserter but we cannot follow those fools any longer. I shall break that Braixen once I have my full power. Nothing will stand in my way anymore." Ommni clutches his hand, sinister energy radiates from it.

"Yes, my Lord," Tusk says.

"All we need is Meadow to show up." Ommni looks up at the sky. "Once we use her to open the temple door...we'll have no more use for her. I want her pathetic life to end. Nothing will stand in my way. Not Kira or some washed-up General." Ommni looks in the direction of where Delphine and Meadow hid. Meadow felt her neck again, the feeling of Ommni's hand wrapping around her neck again made her want to cry again.

"He's going to get me," Meadow cried.

"Sheesh..." Delphine's voice trembled, and Meadow couldn't believe that even she was afraid. She had always pictured Delphine as unbreakable, but even the strongest have their moments.

"Sir, allow me to escort you back. You need to rest and regain your strength for tomorrow," Tusk said as he got up. Ommni nodded in agreement.

"Thank you, Tusk. You have always been loyal to me. I remember when you were a young Nidoran and pledged your devotion to me. I trained you well. You were so weak back then, always losing fights. I remember you were friends with that loser Sir Godfrey. The two of you tried so hard to be strong, but you never seemed to make any progress with your training. His friendship was holding you back."

"He's still weak even now. I will crush him the next time I see him. My Lord, I am eternally in your debt. I will always be grateful for what you have taught me. I would never have evolved without your help. My heart was too gentle when I was a Nidoran," Tusk said.

"As long as you follow me, you will never be weak again," Ommni assured him.

After making sure that Ommni and Tusk had left and were not going to return, Meadow and Delphine emerged from hiding. They hugged each other tightly before Meadow asked, "What do we do?"

Delphine thought for a moment before shaking her head. "We need to go see Kira," she said decisively. "We need to warn him and get him on our side."

Meadow nodded in agreement as they set off toward the camp. Despite feeling the primal fear of Ommni still lingering within her, Meadow was determined to stop him at any cost. With Delphine by her side, she knew that she could face anything that lay ahead. She wasn't sure what tomorrow would bring, but she was resolved to make sure that Ommni would not get away with his dark plans.

Delphine turned to Meadow and said, "I'm going to protect you no matter what. I love you and won't let anything happen to you. But tomorrow, we'll face a power that we're not ready for. We won't let fear stop us. Be ready."

Meadow nodded once again; her determination unshaken by Delphine's words.