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Pokémon Something Something Metropolitan Spiritual Amaurosis

Plegomekitra
  • RJR Basimilus

    Arceus is nice I suppose...
    Location
    the Lovely Planet
    Partners
    1. arceus-fighting
    2. lurantis
    3. arceus-poison
    4. haxorus
    Made some paleo bacon today that happened to be in the fridge. Kind of tasteless...
    Yay! Finished another chapter!

    Content warning for this chapter: Non extensive violence and depictions of sickness. Nothing bad, but not a pretty mental image, lol



    Chapter 2: Plegomekitra



    “Question, Michael.”

    Michael looked back in time to see a cigarette vanish into Zygarde’s mouth, the canine swallowing it without a moment’s delay.

    The man tried to keep a straight face. “Uh, what’s your question, Zygarde?”

    The two of them were sitting on Mike’s back as the Sealeo glided across the surface of the water. Michael idly tugged at his wetsuit, a little thrown off by Zygarde’s casual snack.

    “Cigarettes are very nice when smoked, but they taste terrible. Why is that?” Zygarde frowned. “Incidentally, may I have another one?”

    Reaching in his bag, Michael pulled out a bag with a carton of cigarettes inside. He took one out and held it forward, holding it slightly out of Zygarde’s reach. “You might not agree, but generally you’re not supposed to eat it.”

    “That seems counterintuitive,” Zygarde murmured, gratefully accepting Michael’s offering. “Although, it is par for the course for human inventions.”

    Michael made a face. “Is that what you think? I mean, I guess so.” As he spoke, he lit Zygarde’s cigarette. “Oh shoot-” He fumbled, dropping the lighter into the water.

    Mike looked back at them curiously. Michael waved at him.

    “Don’t worry about it, Mike,” Michael said, “Just keep going.” He sighed. “Whatever. We’ll be fine until later.”

    “Are you not concerned with retrieving it?” Zygarde asked, scanning the water where the lighter had fallen.

    “It’s the ocean, it’s gone already,” Michael said, shrugging. He pointed at Zygarde’s cigarette. “Make that one last, alright? Unless you want to go in after it yourself.”

    Zygarde looked down at the floaties tied around his legs and stomach. “I am not interested in entertaining that offer,” it said simply.

    Michael laughed. “Then that’s that, I’ll just buy a new one.”

    They sat in silence for a while longer before Michael spoke again.

    “Out of curiosity, how does a cigarette taste?”

    [}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{]

    Xerneas leaned towards the glass, reading the placard. “Leek soup flavored with liquid smoke,” she read slowly. “Liquid smoke?”

    “Huh, that’s a really weird one,” Julius commented, standing next to Xerneas. “Liquid smoke in soup? Must be a Hoennese thing.” He ladled a portion into a bowl. “Might as well try some, no?”

    They walked to a smaller table near the corner of the room. Towering over the rest of the room, Xerneas did her best to awkwardly make her way to Julius, apologizing profusely to anyone who would listen. Ignoring the startled glances, she settled down on the other side of the table, shooting the man a small smile.

    “I hope my being here doesn’t cause too much trouble,” Xerneas said, looking around.

    “You said you were a mythical pokemon or something?” Julius slurped the leek soup. “This isn’t bad,” he muttered to himself. “Anyway, it’s not like everyone is versed in history. Plus anyone who would recognize you would probably convince themselves that you’re not the real thing.”

    Xerneas nodded. “I was talking more about how big I am, but that works too.”

    Julius rubbed his forehead. “I feel like a smartass now.” He sighed, grinning. “Oh well. Did you try the soup?”

    Xerneas leaned down slightly, her gaze flickering up to her antlers. Julius held the bowl out, the deer gently sipping it.

    “I hope you don’t have any ancient diseases,” Julius said dryly.

    “I feel fine, but I’m sure someone would feel honored if I made them sick,” Xerneas replied, “I’d fix you up anyway!” She frowned. “Not a fan of this soup.”

    Julius put the bowl down and started poking at a salad with a fork. “Actually that’s an interesting question. If you’re in charge of life, then are you technically responsible for sickness?

    Xerneas blanched. “I err, maybe??” she stammered, “There’s no one in charge of that last time I checked.”

    “If you want to be broad, then I’d say so.” Julius smirked. “Do you speak for all life or only some of it?”

    Craning her neck down, Xerneas seized a bread roll, furiously chewing it. “I don’t know!” she said in agitation.

    Julius pointed his fork at her. “Well do you want to be?”

    “Yes!” Xerneas stood up abruptly, banging her front knees on the table. “Ow.” She took a moment to compose herself. “That’s what I was made to do. Or at least, that’s the only thing I know I should be.”

    A few people were looking at them, some scowling. Julius waved at them, faking a smile. “Let’s take this somewhere else,” he whispered.

    ==

    “So, for most people, part of life is getting sick,” Julius started. They stood together on a sightseeing deck, the evening sun behind them. The deck below them thrummed with shouting and laughter, a generic rock song playing softly in the background.

    “I’ve never been sick,” Xerneas said, “I mean, seen it? Definitely.”

    Julius nodded. “Figured as much. Can you even get sick?”

    Xerneas looked at the man strangely. “Do you want me to?”

    “Well if you don’t know what life is, then that might be a good place to start,” Julius said, shrugging. “Or at least, do later. You’ll probably get sick at some point.”

    “No...” Xerneas stared at the ground, her face scrunched up. “I want to get sick now.”

    Julius was lost for words. “You don’t just get sick.” He paused. “Alright, you do kind of just ‘get’ sick, but you can’t get sick. Do you know what I mean?”

    “It sounds like you know, but you won’t tell me,” Xerneas pouted, “I’ll be fine, Julius. I’ll just fix myself up afterwards.”

    Julius leaned on the railing, sighing. “You do you, Goony. If you really want to get sick, lick every surface you can find on this boat. Don’t actually do that.”

    “I’m gonna do it.”

    Before Julius could say anything, Xerneas ran off, grinning at him as she left.

    Julius was dumbfounded.

    “Shit.”


    {][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}{][}


    Zygarde tapped Michael on his shoulder with one paw. “I have finished my cigarette. Would you like to eat it?”

    “No thanks buddy,” Michael said, wincing as he heard Zygarde start chewing on it. “I thought you said you didn’t like the taste.”

    “Regardless of whether or not it is meant to be eaten, it seems wasteful. Therefore, I must do so, even if it is disagreeable.” Zygarde frowned. “What is she doing?” he murmured.

    Michael leaned forward, letting Mike snack out of a bag of chips. “Huh? Who?”

    “Xerneas,” Zygarde replied, “I don’t recall if I mentioned earlier, but she is the one I am looking for.”

    “Oh yeah? You got a camera following her or something?” Michael made a face. “Creepy. I don’t think I’d mind being filmed though, like a reality show!”

    Zygarde shook its head. “It’s complicated to explain, but you could say she is my ward. It’s my job to make sure she and her counterpart don’t get in trouble. To that end, I have a vague idea at all times where she is and where she is moving.”

    “Still creepy,” Michael said lightly.

    “You’re like a bounty hunter,” Mike said, looking back. “Like that movie about that robot Bisharp! Termite something I think?”

    “I see.” Zygarde pawed at the scarf-like appendage around his neck. “Michael, Mike says I am like a bounty hunter from the termite movie.”

    Michael’s eyes went wide. “Shit, Mike, you’re right. He is like the movie! He’s even got the robot eyes and everything.”

    “What are robot eyes?” Zygarde asked, looking worried. “I’ve heard humans refer to Magnemite as robots. Are you saying I have Magnemite eyes?”

    “Uh, no,” Michael said, as the Sealeo guffawed. “Don’t laugh, Mike! Zygarde is sensitive.” He reached over, scratching under Zygarde’s chin. “You don’t have Magnemite eyes, you have fantastic eyes. Not that Magnemite eyes aren’t great, but you have your own charm.”

    Zygarde seemed caught off guard. “Your... compliments are noted. Thank you?”

    Michael flashed a thumbs up. “No problem! Anyway, you said you can tell where this ‘Xerneas’ is?”

    “Not approximately,” Zygarde said, shaking its head. “But it’s as if she is running back and forth in the same area.”

    “Maybe she’s exercising,” Michael said, “What does she look like?”

    Zygarde paused, thinking. “Consider a Sawsbuck, but- bigger.”

    Michael pulled out a can of soda. “Yeah I don’t know. Just ask her when we catch up to them.” He took a long swig. “I’m kind of excited though, we’re going to Hoenn, that’s like your homeland, Mike!” He patted the Sealeo on the head.

    Mike groaned, the pace of his swimming slowing slightly. “Zygarde, can you tell Michael I was born in a colony that migrated to Unova a few decades ago?” The Sealeo glanced back at the canine. “I don’t know anything about Hoenn.”

    “Mike says his ancestors were exiled from Hoenn,” Zygarde relayed, a blank expression on its face.

    “Woah, seriously?” Michael leaned down, wrapping his arms around the Sealeo’s neck. “Sorry buddy, I had no idea,” he said sadly.

    “Are you fucking kidding me?” Mike growled, fuming. “Zygarde, you fucker!”

    Zygarde was silent for a moment before speaking. “Michael. I must confess something. I was lying about Mike’s words. In actuality, his ancestors migrated many years ago, thus he knows little about Hoenn. I was deliberately misconstruing his words as a joke.”

    The three of them stared at each other before Michael abruptly burst out laughing.

    “You don’t explain the joke like you’re reading a dictionary, Zygarde!” Michael said, in between fits of laughter. “You’re crazy! Hahahahaha... sorry Mike.” The man looked apologetically at the Sealeo.

    “Hnn, at least you corrected it,” Mike said, calming down. “Geez, you really are a robot.”

    “I’ll note that as an insult,” Zygarde said, hiding a faint smile.

    Michael held his arms up in an X shape. “Okay, okay, fine.” He took a deep breath, regaining his composure. “So we don’t know a thing about what we’re getting into. That’s fine, we’ll manage.”

    “Always the optimist,” Mike murmured, “Hey, Zygarde. When you mentioned Xerneas earlier, you said something about her counterpart. Is that something we have to worry about?”

    Zygarde shook its head. “The other one shouldn’t interfere in the slightest. Unlike Xerneas, they should be...”

    The canine froze, his mouth hanging open. “Huh? What is-”

    “Hm?” Michael looked at Zygarde. “Did Mike ask you a question or something?”

    “No, no, no, no, he’s awake too?” Zygarde sounded panicked. “I was focusing on Xerneas, so I didn’t realize that-” It slumped forward, trembling. “This is a problem.”

    Michael grabbed the canine’s front paws, holding them tightly. “Zygarde! Tell me what the problem is.”

    “W-we need to find Xerneas quickly,” Zygarde said, “Something strange is happening.”

    “Don’t panic, Zygarde,” Michael said, trying to calm it down. “Once we get the guy we want, we’ll help you out all you want, okay?”

    Michael pulled the pokemon close to him, rolling him on his back. He slowly stroked Zygarde’s belly, motioning at Mike to speed up. The Sealeo rolled his eyes.

    “I need to fix this,” Zygarde said, staring at the sky. “Or else this will be a disaster!”


    [\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\] [\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\] [\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\] [\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\]


    “When I was young, I had a dream. I was floating in space forever.”

    The old man hesitated, his eyes drawn to the flashing colors in front of him.

    “I’ve never had anything quite like it since, but I think that’s why I’ve always wanted to die there. But it’s not easy to die in space, you know?” he continued, “You have pretty good wings for a pokemon, I don’t suppose you could fly me up there? Haha, just kidding.”

    Yveltal hesitated. “If you really wanted it, I... I could try.” He sniffled. “But I don’t think I’d make it.”

    “Are you crying for me?” The elderly man smiled softly. “Please don’t feel sorry for me. I’ve had a good life.”

    Yveltal nodded, tears running down his face. “I can’t help it. I’ve seen a- a fair amount of death. Usually, I can hold it in until I’m alone, but-” He stopped, burying his face in his arm-wings, crying.

    “I used to hear people say that you go numb to those kinds of things if you keep encountering it,” the old man said softly, “I’m glad to see that that might not be the case.”

    Yveltal took a deep breath, rubbing his eyes. He stared at the bright screen in front of him. “Why did you come to a casino to die?”

    “Ah!” The old man looked around worriedly. “How did you know? Oh, I’m already dead aren’t I?” He laughed. “After all, a talking pokemon comes up to me and I just start telling them how I want to die.” The man pointed a bony finger at Yveltal. “That makes you death then.”

    Yveltal stared blankly at the roulette in front of him. “Yes. Yes, I am. I can... I could tell you were dying. I wasn’t sure if death is the same as it has been, but I guess it is.”

    The old man nodded. “I see. There’s no special reason I came here to die. All the lights and sounds are just so strange, almost alien, it’s the closest thing I can think of to space. I know it won’t be a pleasant surprise for someone, but I’ll be sure not to make it too hard on them.”

    “Do you have any family?” Yveltal asked, reaching out and tugging on the lever on the machine.

    “Just my wife,” the old man said, “Don’t worry, she’s waiting for me. I have a lot of friends, but I’ve always said I was going to do something like this, so there’s no reason to be sad.” He glanced at Yveltal. “So, what now?”

    Yveltal shrugged. “I’m just death. People are alive. Pokemon are alive. Spirits are alive too. All I deal with is the single moment in between. I can’t say what happens after that.”

    “Leaving me to figure it out, huh?” The man grinned. “Sounds exciting.” He leaned forward. “Well, thanks for listening to an old man. I think I’ll take a little nap before I get this all figured out.”

    He laid his head down on the counter, the side of his head illuminated by the video screen advertising a jackpot endlessly. Soft guitar music floated through the room, bulbs in a gaudy crystal chandelier overhead flickering slightly.

    “The same as ever,” Yveltal murmured, tearing up again. “Why do I even need to be death? It happens anyway whether I want it to or not.” He glanced over at the man, spotting something in his hands. Gingerly, Yveltal pulled out a small leather wallet. He carefully plucked a few loose coins out and slid them into the roulette, staring at the screen disinterestedly.

    “I don’t suppose it’ll mean much,” Yveltal said to himself, acutely aware of the deceased man next to him. “But I’ll pretend that we’re in space, just for a little while.”

    He pulled the lever.


    =====><======


    “I aaaam... haappy- urgh!”

    “So? Did you learn anything?” Julius asked, ignoring the abysmal retching noises.

    “I’m covered in my own vomit,” Xerneas said weakly from the other room, “But I feel great, honestly! Not, like, physically, but mentally.”

    Julius cracked a small smile, shaking his head. “Great. Can’t you make yourself better now that you know what it’s like to be sick?”

    “No! I have to- ack!” There was a mighty thump. “Oooooohhh~ I slipped.” Xerneas took a deep breath. “I have to experience this all the way through. Getting better is part of being sick, right?”

    Julius sighed, standing up from the table he was at. “If you want to think of it that way, then fine. I’m going to go get you some medicine to help.”

    “Hey!” Xerneas said, sounding upset. “That’ll ruin the experience.”

    Julius wasn’t able to hold back a laugh. “Getting sick isn’t like reading a book, it’s not the same every time,” he said, “Plus I wouldn’t think figuring out life involves getting sick in different positions. If you want to get sick by yourself and roll around in misery, do it some other time. But in this case, you’re sick, so I’m obliged to take care of you. Having someone looking out for you can be part of the experience too.”

    Xerneas was silent. “Oh,” she said, “I didn’t think of that.”

    “Obviously, you’re not happy at all, right?” Julius asked, “I understand that you say that you’re appreciating the experience, but that doesn’t change the fact that you feel like crap.”

    “Yeah, you’re right,” Xerneas admitted. “I feel awful.”

    “See? Anyway, I’m going to get something that’ll make you feel a bit better- unless you feel like fixing yourself now,” Julius thumbed through his wallet, frowning. “Fuck. Whatever, I’ll figure something out,” he said quietly to himself.

    There was a shuffling sound, and Xerneas poked her head out of the other room. “I said I’m going to stick with it, and I will,” she said confidently, her eyes bloodshot. “It’s for the experience.”

    “Right then.” Julius turned to leave the room. “Let’s make this the least-worst experience we can then.”

    As he left, Xerneas slumped to the floor, shutting her eyes. “Life can suck a lot more than I gave it credit for,” she said, “Maybe that’s why Yveltal was always crying.”

    --

    As Julius walked along the outer deck, he scanned the ground.

    “People drop pocket change all the time,” he said to himself. “But I really should have learned how to pickpocket.”

    As he fretted, a glass window near his head exploded. Dropping to the ground, he heard a voice from below.

    “Shoot! That was my only bullet. Zygarde, can you shoot anything?”

    “I am not aware of what you mean by that.”

    “Can you fire anything out of your mouth?”

    “To a degree. I would rather not do that.”

    Julius peered over the railing. Next to the ship, a man stood atop a Sealeo, a greenish canine next to him.

    “You’re a dead man, Julius!” Michael shouted, “Do you know how hard Mike had to swim to catch up to you?”

    “His effort is worthy of respect,” Zygarde added as Mike glared up at Julius.

    “Yeah, I’m sorry about that,” Julius said, “And I know I’m dead, but can you wait for just a little bit before you kill me?”

    “This isn’t negotiable,” Michael shouted back. “I always hated that attitude of yours by the way.”

    Zygarde nudged him. “Your plan to kill this man does not extend to Xerneas, correct?”

    Michael waved him off. “Yeah, whatever. I’m not going to touch your friend.”

    Julius’ eyes widened when he heard Zygarde speak. “Hey, you know Goony?” He pointed at Zygarde. “Do you have any money you can spare?”

    “Why would you need that?” Zygarde asked.

    “Are you ignoring me?” Michael fumed.

    Mike groaned. “Can we get on that boat?” the Sealeo asked Zygarde. “I’m running on fumes here.”

    “I’m not ignoring you,” Julius shouted. Hearing a whistle, he turned back to see a man staring at him from the broken window. He pointed at the shattered glass. “Beats me,” Julius lied, shrugging. He looked back down at Zygarde. “I need to get medicine for Goony- I mean Xerneas. Uh, that’s what I call her. Anyway, she’s a bit sick.”

    In an instant, Zygarde launched itself off of Mike’s back, running up the side of the boat as Michael and Mike watched awestruck.

    Landing next to Julius, Zygarde glared at him with an icy gaze. “Take me to her immediately.”

    Julius returned his gaze evenly. “As I was saying, do you have any money? I’ll bring you there after I get what I need.”

    “Tch, I will not entertain your excuse,” Zygarde growled, “I will go to her myself.”

    Before Julius could reply, Zygarde had run off, leaving him. He glanced back over the side of the ship at Michael. “Do you have any money on you?”

    Michael held up his middle finger. “Fuck you!”

    “Look, if you can spare me a little money, I’ll let you kill me later,” Julius said, “The reward money will make up for it right? More importantly, were you really going to make your Sealeo there carry a dead body across the sea?”

    Mike looked back expectantly at Michael.

    “I... just shut up. I’ll be up there in a moment,” Michael looked away angrily, “Just let me find a place to climb up.”

    That said, he directed Mike to head around the back of the boat as Julius leaned on the railing, sighing. “This is annoying,” he murmured.

    After a few minutes, Michael appeared on the deck, his wetsuit leaving a growing puddle on the ground. Sticking a pokeball in his backpack, he strode over, flicking open a small knife and pointing it at Julius. “Alright fucker, no sudden movements. We’ll get what you need.” His face flickered. “Also, what kind of food do they have here.”

    “It’s pretty good stuff,” Julius said, nodding. “We’ll try some later.”


    ===[&&]===


    Xerneas laid on her side, trying to fall asleep. Her stomach groaned in protest as she heard the door open.

    “I thought of something, Julius,” she said, not opening her eyes. “Sickness doesn’t have to be a part of life if nothing good comes of it, don’t you think? Maybe I could get rid of it.”

    “I would ask that you prepare a formal proposal for that.”

    “Huh?” Xerneas’ eyes shot up. Zygarde stood in front of her, looking down with concern. “Z- Zygarde?” Xerneas popped up, scooting backwards. “What are you doing here?”

    “That question is more suitable for you,” it replied, looking around the room in disgust. “Has that man forced you to live in this filthy room?”

    Xerneas froze. “Err, no. Julius is great.”

    Zygarde seemed unconvinced. “Why then are you in this state?”

    “Long story,” Xerneas answered, trying to slowly edge around Zygarde. “It was nice of you to visit though.”

    The door opened again, Julius walking in followed closely by Michael.

    “Hey Goony,” Julius said lightly, “Is that guy bothering you?”

    “Not at all,” Xerneas said, smiling. “We’ve known each other for a long time.”

    “Huh, guess you’ll have to introduce- argh!”

    Michael stabbed Julius in the gut with the knife before bringing it up and slicing his neck. “I think I’ll take my chances,” he said, stepping back to avoid the blood spurting out of the other man.

    “JULIUS!” Xerneas screamed in terror, bowling over Zygarde as she ran to him. She rammed Michael out of the way, glaring at him as she did so, before positioning herself protectively over Julius. Her horns crackled with energy as she focused, sea green energy pouring out of her over the wounded man. The wounds slowly began to close, Julius gasping in surprise, reaching to where his wounds had been.

    “Goony... you-” Michael struggled to his feet, flashing a strained smile at Xerneas. “That was nice of you- ghk!”

    Michael stepped over and stabbed Julius again in the back of the neck.

    Xerneas kicked Michael over. “Don’t do that,” she said furiously, leaning down to heal Julius again.

    “Stop fixing him,” Michael retorted, watching the wounds close again. He ran over and stabbed Xerneas in the side of the head.

    “No!” Julius shouted, jumping up and grabbing Michael. “You bastard!”

    “Xerneas!” Zygarde rushed over to her. “What have you done, Michael?”

    “Collateral damage, Zygarde,” Michael said, patting the canine on the head. “Sorry, but that’s what happens in the business.”

    “Do you know what you’ve done?” Zygarde asked, its voice steely.

    “He did nothing,” Xerneas said, thoroughly annoyed. “Everyone just shut up, okay?”

    Julius looked up at her. “Are you okay?”

    Xerneas’ eyes flickered to the knife sticking out of the side of her head. “I’ll be fine. Pain is part of life too, right?”

    Julius glanced at Zygarde and Michael. Zygarde looked away while Michael shrugged and slumped in a chair nearby.

    “Fuck this,” he said in annoyance. “Can’t kill anyone here, can I?”

    “Nope,” Xerneas said, frowning at him.


    \[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/\[]/


    “Eheheheheehee!”

    Yveltal grinned like a madman, trembling as he shoved more coins into the roulette slot.

    Grabbing the lever with both arms, he pulled it down, the machine leaning forward slightly from the force. “I love it!” he whispered.

    “You like gambling?”

    Yveltal turned to see a woman staring down at him, a group of people in black suits behind her. He stared at her blankly for a moment before turning back to the roulette.

    “Guess that’s a yes,” she said, turning back to the group behind her and making a face. “How long has this pokemon been here?” she asked quietly.

    “We checked the cameras,” a man whispered back. “It just kind of wandered in a few hours ago, sat next to that old man, and just started playing the slots when he died.”

    “So he’s been doing this for hours next to a dead guy? That’s wild,” the woman replied, whistling. “And uh, how did you not notice this until now?”

    “New guy,” the man said, smiling apologetically. “He got caught up watching the blackjack tables.”

    The woman shook her head. “I swear. Counting cards is more romantic than cooking these days. Well, just make sure he doesn’t do it again.” She turned around and grabbed the lever as Yveltal went to pull it again.

    “What...” Yveltal looked at the lever forlornly. “Why are you stopping me?”

    The woman blinked. “You can talk? That’s a new one.” She patted Yveltal on the head with her other hand. “So cutie, you don’t have a trainer, do you?”

    “No? Do I need one?” Yveltal tugged weakly, but the woman’s hold on the lever was firm.

    “If you want to keep playing, then yes.” She smiled. “I’m Suzanne. Why don’t you be my pokemon? You can play all you want if you do a few things for me.”

    Yveltal looked at Suzanne. “I’ll do it!” he said without hesitation. “Death is non-negotiable. But this... this!”

    “Sounds like you’re looking for a thrill,” Suzanne said, gesturing to one of her associates who handed her a pokeball. “Why don’t you take a little break, then I’ll show you how to play blackjack.”

    Yveltal hesitated, then released the lever, turning to Suzanne and standing up at his full height. Towering over the humans, Yveltal smiled. “I can’t wait,” he said.

    Suzanne poked him in the stomach with the pokeball and in a flash he was gone. Turning to the others, she gave a triumphant thumbs up. “Alright guys, looks like this casino has a new mascot!”
     
    3
  • RJR Basimilus

    Arceus is nice I suppose...
    Location
    the Lovely Planet
    Partners
    1. arceus-fighting
    2. lurantis
    3. arceus-poison
    4. haxorus
    There's this sour candy you can buy online called Mega-sour. I had one yesterday and my tongue is still feeling it 12+ hours later. Rooouugggh

    : 0

    Chapter 3: Kyomoshva


    “Oh. I forgot.”

    Half way through a large energy drink, Michael looked down. “What did you forget, Zygarde?”

    “I was so distracted with everything happening that I forgot about Yveltal.” Zygarde frowned. “I feel an unfamiliar sense of panic again.”

    “I’m flattered to hear you still care about me,” Xerneas said, burying her face in a pillow. “But I still don’t like hearing about Yveltal.”

    Julius looked at Xerneas. “I was going to make a joke asking about if he was your ex, but you still have a knife in your head.” The man seemed to remember something, reaching into his pocket. “Oh yeah, I got you this too.” He placed a bottle on the table. “Extra strength cold medicine. It’ll knock you out for the rest of the day.”

    “Could you bum me some of those?” Michael asked, “I’d like a long nap right about now.”

    “Uh, sure,” Julius shook out a few pills and handed them to him. “Are you done trying to kill me?”

    Michael downed all of them in one gulp. “Can’t really do that when your friend just brings you back to life. So I’m stuck here with the most unfair crap ever.”

    “Come on...” Julius sighed, “Did Ludoman give you some kind of bounty on me? You know he lies about that stuff just to get a rise out of people.”

    Michael hesitated. “You wouldn’t know it’s a lie.”

    “You’re right, I don’t,” Julius said, shrugging. He held out a few more pills to Xerneas who gratefully ate them, still watching Michael carefully. “If you still want to kill me, then do it while Goony is sleeping or something.”

    Xerneas gagged, looking at Julius in dismay. “Why would you say that just when I ate something that’s going to put me to sleep?” She coughed loudly. “Oh no, I already swallowed.”

    Julius pointed at Michael. “He just ate a bunch too, just stay awake longer than him.” He then turned to Michael. “Same goes for you. I doubt you could outlast her though.”

    Michael banged the table, Xerneas jumping in surprise nearby. “Sounds like a fucking challenge. You just signed your death warrant, Julius.” He stalked over to the door, still holding his drink. “I’m going to go get more energy drinks, you write a will while I’m gone. Zygarde, make sure he doesn’t try to run away.”

    “Please do not involve me in your affairs,” Zygarde murmured, looking annoyed. “I have more important things to worry about.”

    Xerneas got up unsteadily, looking troubled. “I’m... I’m going to go get something to drink too.” She looked at Julius. “There’s no way I’m going to let you die.”

    As she left, Zygarde looked at the man curiously. “I’m intrigued by her interest in you. Usually she only has a passing interest in these things.”

    “I think it’s a midlife crisis,” Julius said thoughtfully, “I was pretty neutral on dying before, but now I’m not so sure.”

    Zygarde paused. “Can you explain what you mean by that?”

    Julius was caught off guard. “Uh, well, in my previous line of work, death was a considerable workplace hazard. So I made my peace with it. If I die, I die, if I live, then so be it.” He smiled a little. “But being with her makes me feel a bit more strongly for the latter.”

    “And yet you encouraged Michael to kill you?” Zygarde looked mystified.

    Julius laughed. “I’m confident that she’ll win,” he said, “Besides, she’s a big pokemon, wouldn’t she need a larger dose anyway?”

    “I do not know how much Xerneas weighs,” Zygarde said, matter-of-factly.

    “My point still stands,” Julius replied, “Anyways, if we’re lucky, they’ll be so focused on beating each other that they’ll both just knock themselves out. You know, positive reinforcement versus negative reinforcement.”

    “I suppose I understand,” Zygarde said, “Very clever.”

    Julius shifted in his seat, sighing. “We’ll see what happens. Anyway, how do you know Goony?

    “As Xerneas is life, and Yveltal death, I am balance,” Zygarde said, “The three of us are charged with the order of such whenever the need arises.”

    “Hm, you mentioned Yveltal earlier. So do you make sure Goony and him are equal or whatever?” Julius squinted at the canine. “Can’t say you look like you’re up to the task.”

    “Equality is not balance,” Zygarde said, sounding pained, “Life and death are not things left to be split into halves. Do I have to explain this to your kind every time?”

    “I guess so,” Julius said, “You seemed upset earlier. Is Yveltal bad news?”

    “Yveltal is... a little sensitive,” Zygarde replied, “He’s never been well-adjusted or particularly stoic about his role, compared to his contemporaries. I’ve asked- asked the one who assigned us our roles to teach Yveltal to take his duties more seriously, but I’ve largely been ignored.”

    Julius shrugged. “Everyone dies regardless, so what does he do? Is he going to kill people?”

    Zygarde shook its head. “I’m worried about him getting into trouble again like what happened a few years ago. I felt the same about Xerneas, but it seems you have been taking care of her, despite recent events.”

    “Right. So you’re their manager and you want to make sure they’re alright.” Julius nodded. “That’s about all I need to know. You want to come help me get those two in a bit? I’m betting they’re gonna pass out at some point.”

    “I will follow your lead,” Zygarde said.

    “Pretty funny that you’re traveling with Michael,” Julius said, standing up. “Did he force you to do anything?”

    Zygarde tilted its head. “Our relationship is one of convenience. That said, he has provided me with a tangible benefit.” It gestured to Michael’s belongings in the corner. “If you could, get me a cigarette.”

    Julius was silent for a moment. “He’s uh, got you hooked on smokes? Fair enough.”


    ==============


    The room was brightly lit, the walls and even the ceiling wood paneled. In the center of the room was a large table covered with a raggedly looking cloth. A tv on the wall was playing reruns of a billiards tournament.

    “Alright, you have a three, a seven, and a ten.” Suzanne gestured at the cards on the table. “What do you want to do now?”

    “Hit me again!” Yveltal said excitedly.

    The woman nodded slowly. “You’re at twenty.”

    “I remember the rules,” Yveltal replied, “I don’t care about the results, I love the anticipation!”

    Suzanne stifled a laugh. “Anyone who says that is usually lying to themselves. This is the first time I’ve heard it truly seriously.” She flicked another card onto the table, looking at it approvingly. “Looks like you have a bit of luck to go along with that too.”

    Yveltal stared at the ace. “Does that mean I win?”

    Suzanne shrugged. “You said you remembered the rules.”

    “I- I got the twenty one part!” Yveltel protested, “Then you started talking about probability and doubling down and I thought that was just for advanced players.”

    Suzanne ran one hand through her hair, frowning. “I suppose that is a fair point. Anyway, you win! How do you feel?”

    “R-right now?” Yveltal paused. “Pensive I guess.”

    “That’s not usually how winners feel,” Suzanne said thoughtfully, “What’s up?”

    “Winning or losing is a result- an ending.” Yveltal gingerly picked up the ace, careful not to bend the card. “But the anticipation leading up to it, the excitement. That’s what I want.”

    She nodded. “Alright. Personally, I disagree. In my experience, it’s only an ending if you lose.”

    Yveltal considered her words. “And that means?”

    “Winners love to imagine themselves winning again. Among other things,” Suzanne said, “You know, you’d probably like sports betting. I’ll show you later.”

    A short man entered, holding a sheaf of papers. “I got what you asked for Suzanne,” he said, eyeing Yveltal nervously, “Here’s some printouts.”

    Suzanne took them, making a face as she read over them. “Is this from a picture book? I know there’s a good if it’s you, Rick, but still.”

    “Mythical pokemon are basically a historiography subset,” Rick said plaintively, “A lot of conjecture and twice the amount of anecdotes. At least the imagery is relatively consistent.”

    “Hey, this looks like you,” Suzanne said, showing Yveltal a picture of himself that looked like it had been drawn in crayon. “So you’re Yveltal?”

    “Something like that,” Yveltal murmured, still looking at the ace.

    “And you’re death?” Suzanne seemed amused. “That makes sense.”

    Yveltal grumbled. “I don’t like being death though. Why can’t I be emblematic of something like gambling?”

    Suzanne laughed, standing up. “Who said you had to be like that in the first place?”

    “Err... someone I know,” Yveltal said, suddenly withdrawn. “I guess you could say a friend?”

    “And has that friend ever compensated you for that job? Maybe even just said ‘good job’ every once and awhile?” Suzanne crossed her arms. “You sure they’re a friend.”

    Yveltal stumbled over his words. “That’s- it was just what was supposed to be.”

    “Well that’s silly,” she replied, “Here’s what I think, your friend is an idiot. You can be whatever you want to be! Besides, you look more suited for gambling anyway, right, Rick?”

    “Red and black like a poker chip,” Rick said approvingly from the other side of the room.

    Suzanne looked back at Yveltal. “See? Plus, you know that old saying right? Death and gambling or whatever?”

    Yveltal looked at her, baffled.

    “The phrase is ‘death and taxes’” Rick interjected, “Not quite the same.”

    “Gambling is a regressive tax according to economists,” Suzanne shot back. “So it still fits!”

    “What’s a tax?” Yveltal asked, “I feel like I’ve heard that word before...”

    “Don’t worry about it,” Suzanne said, slapping Yveltal’s stomach. “Pokemon don’t need to worry about that stuff.”

    Yveltal stared a moment before nodding slowly. “So... you think I can represent gambling?”

    Smiling slightly, Suzanne pointed at him. “I know you can! It’ll be a lot of work to fix your image, but with the right campaign it’ll be no sweat.”

    “My image?” Yveltal looked himself over. “Should I trim my fur or something?”

    “Not quite, I’m talking about your reputation. You said it yourself, you are death.” Suzanne gestured to Rick. “We need to turn it around so people associate you with prosperity, with riches, livelihood!”

    “You mean... life?” Yveltal’s eyes went wide.

    “You can generally extrapolate that from it,” Suzanne said, “I’d go a bit further though - as the patron of gambling, you represent the *good* life.”

    “Eheheheh, I like that!” Yveltal said, smiling.

    “So it’s settled!” Suzanne held out her hand. “This is a business relationship okay? I’ll tell you what to do, but if you can’t hold up your end, then I’ll kick you out, got it?”

    Hesitating for a moment, Yveltal reached down, letting Suzanne wrap her hand around a single talon and shake vigorously. “I’ll do my best!” he said, none too confident.

    “I’m sure you will,” Suzanne replied, “Come with me, I’ll show you the whole casino.”


    ==================


    “Drinking too many of those in a day will kill you, you know?”

    Michael glared at Julius, a half empty can in his hand. “If I can kill you before that happens, then it’ll be worth it.”

    Julius blinked. “How?”

    “Cause you’ll be dead, that’s how!” Michael grumbled, “Can you shut up so I can concentrate on beating her?”

    Across the deck, Xerneas was maintaining eye contact with Michael while noisily slurping a huge container of coffee. She briefly nodded at Julius before returning to her drink.

    “It’s good that you’re having fun,” Julius said, ignoring Michael’s withering glance. “But you were going to kill me for the money right? I mean, ignoring the fact that there’s likely no money at all in it, what good is it when you’re dead?”

    “It’s not about the money anymore, I’m doing it to stick it to you,” Michael growled.

    Julius hummed. “And Mike is fine with that?”

    “Nnnn.” Michael hesitated, his grip tightening. “Screw this, the money’s not worth it if you keep being an ass like this.” He stood up and walked away, stumbling a bit as he went.

    Watching him go, Julius sighed. “It’s not like he has to save face in front of me.” He made his way over to Xerneas. “Hey Goony, you can stop drinking, he gave up.”

    Xerneas looked at him. “How do you know he’s not lying? What if he was... was you know- just kind of...” She swayed slightly, shaking her head.

    “Hey, we can worry about that later,” Julius said, watching her nervously. He gestured over at Zygarde who was standing slightly off to the side. “How about you take a nap, Goony?”

    Xerneas shook her head. “I can’t take a nap when... when.” She abruptly pitched forward, sending the coffee pitcher rolling across the deck.

    “Shoot,” Julius murmured, smiling awkwardly at the few people staring at Xerneas’ sudden fall. “Sorry about that,” he said as Zygarde quietly sidled up to Xerneas, examining her carefully. “It’s her first time on a ship.”

    An attendant appeared, surveying the scene curiously. “Hello sir, is everything alright?”

    “Oh it’s fine!” Julius replied, “Really sorry about the mess, I’ll help clean if you need.”

    “No need, we’ll handle it,” the attendant said, “However, in the interest of our other guests, we request that you keep a close eye on your pokemon so this doesn’t happen again.”

    “Right, right.” He reached in his pocket, pulling out Xerneas’ pokeball.

    Zygarde frowned at the pokeball. “Please do not use that on Xerneas,” it said, “It is... not proper.”

    “Oh uh, sorry, it’s already hers,” Julius said, shrugging apologetically. “I don’t know how else we can bring her back to the room.”

    Zygarde was silent for a moment. “Fine, but do it quickly. I’d rather her not be in there a long time.”

    “It’s not like pokeballs are made to be uncomfortable or anything,” Julius said, “I mean, not that I’d know. I can see where you’re coming from with it being weird though.” He looked down at Xerneas. “Uh, do you think the knife will stay in her?”

    Zygarde stared at the knife still buried in Xerneas’ neck. “I don’t know. If she says it’s fine, I don’t mind.”

    “Alright, well we’ll find out soon enough.” Julius recalled Xerneas into the pokeball, sighing, “Michael probably passed out in a hallway somewhere, want to help me find him?”

    “I am neither opposed nor in favor of,” Zygarde replied, “As before, you lead. I need to focus on trying to locate Yveltal.”

    Julius studied Zygarde for a moment, then leaned down, wrapping his arms around Zygarde’s chest and picking it up. “I’ll just carry you so you can focus, maybe you can tell me a little bit about how this all happened if you know.”

    “I cannot promise anything,” Zygarde said, hanging limply in Julius’ grip.

    ---

    Julius stared out at the sea, feeling a dull ache in his arms. “This guy is kind of heavy,” he murmured to himself.

    A few solitary clouds rolled slowly across the sky as the rising moon reflected off the ocean. The waves noisily slapped the side of the boat, a slight breeze whistling.

    “So you said earlier that you were kind of a mediator between Goony and Yveltal, right?” he asked, watching a cloud.

    Zygarde didn’t reply.

    Waiting patiently for another moment, Julius looked down to see the pokemon snoozing in his arms.

    “Ah.” Julius could find any other words. Instead he looked back out at the ocean. “Fair enough.”

    “Hey, Julius.” Michael came up next to him, resting his elbows on the ledge. He glanced over at Zygarde, his face slightly pale. “Hah, Zygarde looks cute sleeping like that.”

    “Do you want to carry him... or her, whatever Zygarde is,” Julius said, thrusting the sleeping canine at Michael. “They’re a bit heavy.”

    Michael shook his head. “No can do- I’m barely on my feet as is.” His expression grew solemn as he closed his eyes. “I’m kind of stupid, aren’t I?”

    “Er, no, I wouldn’t say that.” Julius was caught off guard. “Maybe a little misguided at times, but everyone is.”

    “It’s just that I’m pretty much the brute like in the movies. I’m strong, very handsome, but not very smart,” Michael said frankly, “I... really should have known that Ludoman was lying about the money.”

    “Well, I just assumed that because that’s what he always does,” Julius said, “Technically, you were right to question whether or not it was true.”

    “Are you trying to make me feel better by suggesting you should be killed?” Michael laughed, “What is wrong with you? That big deer isn’t around to help you this time either if I really wanted to.”

    Julius nodded. “I guess I’ll take my chances. But if I died, then Goony would be sad, and then Zygarde might get sad too. Is that okay?”

    “Oh fuck off,” Michael said, shaking his head. “I said I’m done, so I’m done. Now I’m stuck on a ship going wherever and Ludoman is probably making a fool of me back home.”

    “As tends to happen when it comes to him,” Julius said, “Why don’t you come with Goony and I? I don’t think Zygarde is going to leave her either, so you can stay with hi... it.”

    Michael coughed. “You know what, fine, let’s do it. I’ve been wanting to take Mike for a vacation for a long time anyway. Not like I ever had much work to do as an enforcer back home.”

    “Great!” Julius adjusted his grip so one arm was firmly holding Zygarde before flashing a thumbs up with the other. “I know you and Goony got off to a bad start, but we’ll manage. Anyway, you look pretty bad. How about you go get some rest?”

    “Was planning on it,” Michael said, rubbing his forehead. “See you later, Julius. And uh, sorry about everything earlier.”

    “Let’s just look forward,” Julius said, “It’s better for everyone.”

    “Whatever man. I don’t know how you can just be okay with everything like it’s nothing. It’s weird.” Michael waved at the other man. “See you in a bit.”

    “Sure,” Julius said, grasping one of Zygarde’s front paws with his free hand and waving it at Michael.

    Michael stifled a laugh, waving back before heading off to the cabin.

    Watching him leave, Julius heard a groan. He looked down to see Zygarde blearily staring at the ocean.

    “You fell asleep,” Julius said.

    “I feel asleep,” Zygarde replied, “This is embarrassing.”

    “So I guess Yveltal isn’t too big of a problem?” Julius asked.

    “Noo, no, ergh.” Zygarde closed his eyes again. “I worry, but I trust them to at least be able to handle themselves. I was just panicked as to why they were awake.”

    “Why?”

    “Barring extraordinary circumstances, they don’t usually wake up for no reason,” Zygarde said. “The only other way it could have happened is if I woke them up myself.”

    Julius’ eyes widened. “You can do that?”

    “Yes, but I didn’t do it, so the only other possibility is some kind of event, and that worries me.” Zygarde looked up at Julius. “You can put me down now- although it... was comfortable.”

    Setting Zygarde down, Julius exhaled. “Right, so extraordinary event. Do you know what qualifies for that?”

    “The last time was the weapon,” Zygarde said in a low voice. “It can’t be that now, but if it were something similar...”

    “Then deal with it when you know what it is,” Julius said, deciding not to ask about the weapon. “Otherwise you’re just worried for nothing.”

    “I will note that as advice,” Zygarde replied, “Once I know where Yveltal is and what he is doing, I will feel better.”

    Julius nodded. “So uh, figure anything out before you feel asleep?”

    “No, and I will not until tomorrow,” Zygarde said, “I am slightly tired now.”

    “So is everyone else, let’s head back to the room,” Julius said, “Want me to carry you again?”

    Zygarde opened its mouth but hesitated. It glanced around as if searching for something, then looked straight at Julius. “I would appreciate that.”


    =====================


    Yveltal stared at the bank of monitors, his head spinning. “I can’t focus on anything,” he said, turning away from the screens.

    “I don’t expect you to,” Suzanne replied, rummaging in a desk. She pulled out a tape measure, throwing it to Rick. “Do you know your own wingspan off the top of your head?”

    Yveltal shook his head. “I’ve never thought to measure it.” He spread his wings outwards, the room barely big enough to contain them. “Um, I’m not good at estimates.”

    “This is more than good enough,” Rick said, measuring Yveltal’s wings before starting on his height. “Want me to call in the order tomorrow, Suzanne?”

    “That would be good,” Suzanne said. She smiled at Yveltal. “It’s a surprise.”

    “For me?” Yveltal stuttered, “I’ve never gotten a surprise before.”

    “You’ll see soon!” She gestured for Yveltal to come closer. “Now, here’s the plan. We’re going to sponsor you for gambling.”

    “What does that mean?” Yveltal asked.

    Suzanne held up a roll of cash she had produced from somewhere. “Basically we’ll send you to poker tournaments or whatever and you’ll wear a hat for us. Doesn’t have to be poker though, are you particularly athletic?”

    “I guess?” Yveltal seemed unsure. “I can fly.”

    “Can you jump?”

    “A little.”

    Suzanne clapped her hands together. “That’s great. See, what’s good about you is that you can advertise for us pretty much by doing anything! Even if people don’t gamble, if they still come here to see you and have a drink, then more publicity for us!”

    “Ooh, being the center of attention sounds kind of nerve-wracking,” Yveltal said, “But kind of exciting too.”

    “Don’t worry about it, it’ll be fun,” Suzanne said reassuringly, “And if you don’t like some particular part, just tell me and we’ll pivot.”

    “For the record-” Rick interjected, “- I absolutely do not think this will work.”

    “Eh?” Yveltal looked over at the man, a little upset.

    Suzanne patted Yveltal’s chest. “Don’t worry. That’s how business works. See, Yveltal, good commerce is usually conducted in pairs, one person is the creative genius who makes the money with great ideas, and the other is the manager who holds the money slightly out of reach.” Suzanne shrugged. “Because sometimes, the genius does have dud ideas. I’m the genius by the way. Rick makes sure I don’t spend too much without results.”

    “Send Yveltal to local card games or have him play chess in the park,” Rick said, shaking his head. “I’m not letting you bankroll anything until you can prove people want to see him.”

    “That’s the plan,” Suzanne replied, “We’re gonna start with what we just measured him for.”

    Rick nodded. “Okay, but don’t let this get in the way of normal operations. Don’t forget you’re hosting the entrepreneurial luncheon tomorrow.”

    Suzanne harumphed. “Of course I didn’t forget that.” She turned to Yveltal. “I’ll be busy with that for a bit tomorrow, feel free to wander around and play some games. I let everyone know to take care of you. But make sure to meet with Rick around lunchtime, the thing should be ready by then.” Suzanne smiled. “I paid good money for a rush-job, so look forward to it!”

    Yveltal smiled back. “I’ll do my best.”
     
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