Pokémon Haruto Kannagi: The First Light

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After performing a ceremony to honor Dialga in spring of 1985, thirteen-year-old Haruto of the Kannagi Clan has a chance meeting with a student visiting from Galar. It sets in motion a series of events that will change his life forever.

You can expect to see typical Pokemon violence, dangerous situations, hardasses, mild language, and mild retcons (okay just the one) in this fic.

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Bathed in blue upon the highest cliff of Celestic Town stood a black-haired teenager watching eastward. The long sleeves on the ornate pale blue robe he wore billowed gently in the breeze. Before him was a large stone with many shapes carved into it. This point was the second most sacred part of the settlement, next to the grove in the lowest valley. It was here during the first sunrise of the Vernal Equinox that a most important ritual was to take place: the First Light Ceremony.

The seconds ticked by, but he did not dare look away or allow himself to become distracted. All eyes were on him. The shrine, his ancestors, and the heavens were all watching. Even the nearby Pokemon had quieted down in respect. Above all, the one to be honored was waiting. He did not want to think about the consequences of getting this wrong. The moment drew close.

At last, the sun peeked over the horizon and cast the first rays of spring upon the land. The teenager reflexively shielded his aqua-blue eyes, quickly turning to face the monument. He clasped his hands together and knelt before it.

“Oh Mighty Dialga,” he said quietly, communing with the Legendary Pokemon. “My name is Haruto of the Kannagi Clan. On behalf of us all, I thank you for your blessing of time. Your gift is what gives us growth. To exist without time is to exist forever unchanging. Today marks the first day of spring, the start of new life and new beginnings. It can be thought of as the start of a new year. The year before was bountiful, and I pray that this year and all future years are as well. To show my appreciation, I present you this offering. May the light I give it help recover your strength.”

A lump caught in his throat. Was that sufficient? His family had chosen him as the one to offer Mighty Dialga their first prayer and gift this year. There were no guidelines when it came to the ceremony, and his mentor had only told him to do what felt right in his heart. Well, he could not afford to dwell upon it. There was still one more important step to perform.

The teenager turned around and grabbed the green satchel from the grass behind him. He opened it and reached inside. The smooth gem was still there. He gripped it tightly – it was cold to the touch from being exposed to the cool morning air – and pulled it out. The tiny diamond glistened softly in the light of dawn.

He gently closed his hand and his eyes. The teenager faced the sun and outstretched his arm, in turn pressing his shoulder against his chin. The light massaged his face with its heat and radiance. Enduring these rays sent willpower. He slowly tilted his head upward while gradually lowering his arm. When his elbow pressed over his heart, he breathed in and held it. His chest tingled. Each beat of his heart sent emotion. He bent his arm inward, maintaining the two contact points on the shoulder and elbow, until it touched his forehead. He breathed out. His thoughts sent knowledge.

All of a sudden, he felt something warm on his fingers. He unfurled his palm and looked within. The diamond now had a faint yet adamant glow. His shoulders dropped and he exhaled again, this time out of relief. It worked. He placed it on the pedestal and stepped back.

“Priestess Satomi, I did it,” he announced.

The elderly woman who was observing from below chuckled. “I knew you could, Shaman Haruto. As expected of someone whose name means Spring Person!”

A woman wearing a violet robe with silver trim stepped up onto the plateau. Her face hardly looked as old as it really was – she had no wrinkles, her hair was barely graying, and her eyes were a bright silver-green – but the woman of sixty-something years had served multiple generations of his family. She was a mentor figure to his mother, a childhood friend of his grandfather, and had known family even older than that.

“Did I…” His words were abruptly choked away from him. He had to take a deep breath in and out. “Did I do a good job?”

“I think you did just fine,” his mentor replied, giving him a sage nod. “Mighty Dialga will be pleased.”

“But could I have done better?” he asked more directly, clutching at himself and looking back at the diamond. The light he infused into it as a diviner still held strong.

“You can always strive to be better, Shaman Haruto!” she said with a clap and a wink. She punctuated it with a point up high. “And you always should. Once you start to get complacent with where you are, things can only go downhill. But you can’t go wrong as long as you always do the best you can!”

Haruto could only nod at that. It made sense. A lot of what Priestess Satomi said made sense. But the doubt continued to linger in his mind, squeezing his body like a coiling Ekans. What if his best was not good enough? Even if the odds of him becoming Master of the shrine were slim, if not nil, he did not want to bring shame to his family.

“I only wish that Mother and Father could have been here for this,” he lamented, staring off toward the southwestern horizon. “I am surprised this was arranged while they were away.”

“Shocked’em to hear it! Your mom was madder than a swarm of Beedrill!” Priestess Satomi said with a chuckle. “They would’ve flown over express if they weren’t in Celadon for the conference. Don’t read too much into it though. It’s just unfortunate timing.”

He tried to force a smile, only managing to erase his frown. The elders of the shrine likely considered giving him this opportunity independently of their duties, and only happened to finalize it after they had left. Or perhaps it was part of a test. If there was any ill intent, Priestess Satomi would not have stood for it.

The elderly priestess glanced over the cliff, taking in the view. She eventually settled her gaze upon the Kannagi Shrine itself, which rested at the exact center of the town. She spoke with a smile, “Well, let’s head home and tell everyone the good news! Got to start preparing for tonight’s ceremonies, too.”

Yes, there was to be a festival tonight. Haruto reflexively nodded. There was no sense in continuing this conversation, even though he wanted to. If they dawdled, his bodyguard – no, everyone would begin to wonder what was taking so long. “Very well, let us depart,” he said simply.

They walked down the spiraling hill. There were many little plateaus along the way. It was an ancient path, yet it was nearly impossible to tell that it was over a thousand years old. The stone road was patched up semiannually, though the steps near the top in particular were still the original ones. Flowers of all kinds were beginning to poke out of the well-maintained grass along the side. Nary a weed was in sight.

His bodyguard was waiting at the base of the hill. He went only by Hugo, with no family name. He was tall, muscular, and wore an olive green uniform from his military days. Four Poke Balls lined his belt. He had more in the past – all but one were confiscated upon banishment from his former nation. Haruto knew little of Hugo's history, and less still of the secular place he hailed from. Though he was hardly alone in that, his family evidently trusted him enough to grant him the position.

“All done?” Hugo asked, vaguely tilting his scarred and bald head. Despite the signs of aging, he was only in his mid-forties. His pupils were barely visible, and were hard to notice given their lenses were milky white.

“That we are!” Satomi replied. “He did a bang-up job!”

“Good. I’ll cover the rear. You take point.” The man stood behind him. “Stay between us.”

Haruto’s chest and throat tightened. His legs locked up when he tried to move them. The overwhelming presence of Hugo alone likely warded off any threats to his safety. Appearances were not everything, yet they did play a role in judgment, and his bodyguard lived up it. It even frightened him at times.

Satomi chuckled as she stood in front. “This again?” She started walking, and Haruto reflexively lurched into action. “Alrighty, but I think you’re worrying a bit too much.”

The young shaman made the mistake of looking back. Hugo’s demonic scowl made him wish he had not. It was a testament to Priestess Satomi’s nerves that she remained unflinching at the sight of it.

“The moment you drop your guard is when your enemies will strike,” Hugo quavered, anger and grief alike in his tone.

“Lemme put it this way,” the elderly woman replied, her expression unchanging. She counted on her fingers. “It’s early morning, two of Celestic’s finest are here, and we just honored a major Legend. I think the odds of anyone causing trouble–”

Something crashed into him from the left. It happened so quickly that he had no chance to get his arms out. His fall was cushioned only by the grass. His attacker quickly got up and stood over him. He saw only their blue legs. Haruto bit down as he tried not to scream in terror. He had to get up! He had to run!

Haruto flailed his arms and somehow rolled into a sitting position. They were at a small wooded intersection. He froze again and nearly choked.

Hugo had already grabbed the perpetrator, a girl around his age. She was helplessly squirming and trying to free herself. His bodyguard suddenly dropped her and skidded back a meter, evidently pushed away by an invisible force. His brow furrowed and he grit his teeth. Haruto covered his eyes as Hugo wound back.

“Like I said!” he roared. A yelp followed, but it at least did not sound pained.

“Hugo. Stop this,” Satomi ordered.

“Hey, hey! Hey!” came an unfamiliar voice.

Haruto dared looking. Hugo dropped his fists and put a hand on his belt. The girl was okay for now. She sounded like a Galarian, and was wearing jeans with a beige t-shirt. Her forest-green hair was done up in a ponytail. A ladybug Pokemon was floating protectively in front of her. It didn’t look like a Ledian or anything else Haruto knew.

“What’s all this, gramps?!” she snapped, standing firm and glaring right back at him.

“Choose your next words carefully,” Hugo warned, grabbing the Ultra Ball from his belt. That one contained his Tyranitar, his oldest and most loyal Pokemon. “I suggest you explain yourself.”

“I was just walking, okay?! I’m in a hurry and wasn’t looking!” She stomped a foot, spun around, walked over, and held out a hand. “Sorry, are you hurt?”

“Step away from him,” his bodyguard growled.

Priestess Satomi crossed her arms. “Hugo.”

Haruto looked at everyone. Hugo was watching like a Pidgeot, ready to lunge in the blink of an eye. Priestess Satomi gave him a smile. The girl was frowning and leaning forward with downcast pink eyes, having shifted moods in an instant. He could not detect any deception in her body language.

“Y-yes, I am…” He grimaced as his knee throbbed. “I am fine,” he insisted. It was not entirely true, but he did not want to get her in trouble for something so minor.

“Good, good, that’s good!” she said, reaching for him. Before Haruto could protest, or even vocalize, she had already yanked him to his feet. “Sorry again! Um.” She placed one arm on her stomach and bowed. “That’s what you guys do here to apologize, right? You bow?”

“S-sort of,” he said. “It is all right. It was…” He performed a traditional bow at her, albeit not too deeply. “I am partly to blame. I should have been paying more attention myself.”

“No way you could’ve saw me!” she initially dismissed, before pausing and glancing at the adults. ”Well, I guess you all could’ve, but it was right at a crossroads!”

“Fair point,” Priestess Satomi took it in stride with a chuckle. “Whatcha in a hurry for this early anyway, little lady?”

The girl whirled over and clenched her fists, only for her retinas to widen. “Oh! That’s right! I nearly forgot!” She slapped her forehead, then turned back to him. “Say hey! You don’t happen to know where a coffee shop is around here? My teacher’s being an absolute capital-K Krabby about her caffeine. Been looking everywhere for a place that serves it!”

Every muscle in his body tensed when she leaned in. At least it helped keep him steady. He swallowed before answering. “I believe there is a café around two blocks east of the shrine,” he said. Haruto vaguely remembered passing by it a number of times, but could not recall exactly where it was located. “Also, Krabby is always capital K.”

“It was a figure of speech! And I’ll go take a look! Thanks!” She started to run off, only to turn and say, “And if you’re going to the shrine for the festival tonight, we’ll be there too!”

Haruto opened his mouth. Before he could explain who he was – who they were – she was already out of earshot. Who was that? She did not even introduce herself.

“Fool.” Hugo shook his head.

“Gooootta agree there,” Priestess Satomi said while tapping an ear. She threw up her arms. “Well, guess she’ll find out she was talking to a Child of Kannagi soon enough!”

“It is understandable. She came from far away. We may share the same sun, but common knowledge may differ,” he noted. There was no reason to hold it against her, so long as she learned.

“Gotta agree there, too!” the elderly woman said with an approving grin. “Well, let’s head back! Time waits for no one, after all!”

They started off once more, thankfully without further interruption. It was still fairly chilly, but Haruto felt strangely warm. He found himself staring off in the direction where that girl had run. No one had ever spoken to him in both a casual and friendly way before. Even when it was one, it was never the other. He rubbed his temple. What to make of it? Perhaps they would have a chance to speak again tonight.

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Spoiler: Intro

Welcome to a very unexpected prequel to my metaseries! Even for me!

This fic has its origins in a weeklong Bulbagarden Writers event for Pokemon's 30th anniversary. It featured a bingo board with 30 fills (center and corner each having one extra), with the community filling it in with art, writing, etc. Having turned bingo drabble into blackout fics before, I attempted to do so again even if it'd only count for one slot. I succeeded, mostly after staying up late and doing 6000+ words in one sitting to finish on the last day. It had no editing at all and was about 12500 words.

After the event, I started out editing it to fix some of the problems. Around four months and 18000 words later, this is what I ended up with: enough to be a proper fic. I got carried away. The original and the bingo card can be looked up ahead of time, but will otherwise be formally linked at the conclusion.

 

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The Kannagi Shrine was situated in the center of the town it once gave its name to. One entered through the torii on the south side, though the stone steps led down into a small valley. The shrine itself was in the center of the grounds, with no oratory in front of it owing to how old it was. The administrative office was on the east side, with living quarters on its second floor. Various other structures stood to the west. The north side held a battlefield and a small cave built into the cliffs. Aside from some ancient murals, there was nothing special or sacred about it. However, it led to the lowest part of town, housing the remains of a structure older than their faith of nearly fifteen hundred years.

Dusk had fallen, and the Kannagi Shrine spring welcoming festival of 1985 was well underway. Visitors and residents of the shrine alike were out and about, enjoying the food and drink, going to the stalls that people set up around the grounds, paying tribute to the Great Enamorus, and viewing the budding cherry blossoms. They organized festivals throughout the town on major holidays, but particularly special occasions such as these saw them invite visitors into their sanctuary.

As for Haruto Kannagi, he was sitting in a corner with his two Pokemon, trying to get away from it all. The young man was in his usual violet robe with golden trim, styled exclusively for blood members of the Kannagi family. He was never good with festivals, tolerating them only for the sake of appearances. If he had his way, he would stay in his room if his presence was not necessary. His bodyguard was standing quietly nearby, thankfully content to be away from the festivities as well.

“I am glad you two are enjoying this at least,” he sighed to his Pokemon, who were engrossed in the snacks he had picked up before coming over this way.

Tsumugi let out a muffled bark. Her mouth was so stuffed with mochi that it stretched her white face. Cerise wiggled and briefly looked up at him. Both of her heads smiled before she dipped the lower body into the jar of honey to allow it a portion.

Her rapid slurping caught the attention of Tsumugi. The Oshawott scarfed down most of her bite; the rest dropped from her maw as it fell open. Licking her lips, she placed her mochi on the dirt, grabbed the scalchop from her belly, and began to creep over. Right as she was reaching to scoop some, the Cherubi lashed out with a swing. From how the larger cherry’s eyes widened, it was the smaller one that did that. Tsumugi stumbled away on instinct, but threateningly waved her weapon and slapped her tail on the ground.

“Please do not fight,” he urged, raising his palms to try to get their attention. The two Pokemon turned to him, and he addressed Tsumugi. “I will give you some honey later.”

The Oshawott pointed repeatedly in the direction of the stalls while panting. He did not need to use his abilities to understand that she wanted it immediately.

“Okay, I shall get you it now,” he relented with a sigh. He stood and turned to do just that, halting at the sight of someone.

A teenager with shoulder-length, dark blue hair was approaching. He wore an identical robe to his own, and though he was family, that only made Haruto want to shrink away further.

“What are you doing way over here, Haruto?” Sanshirou Kannagi demanded. His brown eyes burned as he crossed his arms. The Prinplup at his side mimicked his authoritative pose.

“Nothing,” he said, turning away. No, that was an inappropriate response. “Um, I was actually just going to get some honey for Tsumugi.”

“It is unbecoming of you to be effectively alone in a corner after representing our family to Mighty Dialga this year!” his cousin berated, jerkily gesturing as if to tell him to go where he was motioning. He ignored Tsumugi hissing at him, but the Prinplup postured. “The rest of our family has been looking for you. You were given this privilege – for some reason – so you need to show that you deserved it! What would your parents think if they were here?”

All he could do was lower his head. Sanshirou was somehow the most overbearing member of his family despite being his senior by only one year and three months. Yet he had earned the right, for he had accomplished so much more as a diviner, even accounting for the age difference. He was the greatest Kannagi of their small generation.

As Haruto started to walk off, Sanshirou grabbed him. He forced his chin up and looked him in the eyes. “Your family name is Kannagi. That means you are expected to conduct yourself in a certain way. What are people going to think of you if they see you over here by yourself? Or if they see you with such poor posture?” The older teenager curled his lip as he released his grasp, his brows falling vaguely. “Nothing good. So–”

“HEYYYYY!!” someone shouted at the top of her lungs.

Haruto snapped to attention. He spotted her quickly: it was the girl from this morning! She was in an Unown-themed kimono, but he recognized her face and forest-green hair. This was the worst timing!

She came running over so fast that the Bug-type flying behind her struggled to keep up. Haruto put his hands up and stepped away. But she stopped on a stone right before him.

“So you are here!” she exclaimed with a clap and a roll of her shoulders. “Thanks again for this morning! Found the place no problem! Dunno how I missed it before! It put my teacher in a…” She briefly looked away and snorted. “Well. A better mood, anyway.”

“You are welcome,” he replied, trying not to let his voice quaver too much. He looked at Hugo, who had crossed his arms, but was otherwise only observing. Cerise and Tsumugi were watching curiously. Yet one individual did respond to her arrival.

“Excuse me, who are you?” his cousin demanded, about to launch into a tirade.

“Who are YOU?” she countered before he could say more, waving a hand in the air and putting it on her hips. “Don’t you know it’s rude to ask who someone is without introducing yourself first?”

Sanshirou harrumphed. “Can you not tell?” he asked, tugging at his robe and raising the fabric with both hands.

“I wouldn’t be asking if I knew!” Not only did she turn away, she also put her hand up to block her view of him. “Anyway, I’m Lisa! What’s your name?”

“Um, I am Haruto,” he introduced, adding a tiny bow a moment afterward. Everyone in the vicinity was staring at them, their attention drawn by her loud argument with his cousin. Priestess Satomi was even walking over. The fact that she was smiling didn’t change matters.

“Haruto Kannagi,” Sanshirou added, his voice straining vaguely. “We are both Children of Kannagi!”

Before his blood could even freeze from his cousin’s ousting, Lisa reacted. “Oh, cool!” she said with a flick of her ponytail. “I didn’t know you’re a Kannagi! Hey, want to sit and chat for a bit?”

“Him being a Kannagi means that you should not be speaking to him so brazenly!” Sanshirou yelled, unable to contain himself any longer.

Priestess Satomi pressed a hand to her temple. She punctuated her disapproval by turning to Sanshirou with a deep frown.

He shut his eyes and lowered his head slightly. “Forgive my outburst,” he begrudged. “But my point still stands. I know you are a visitor to our region, but that does not excuse your lack of respect.”

“Shaman Sanshirou, you need to show respect to our guests as well,” Priestess Satomi scolded, wagging her finger at him. The elderly woman raised her arms in the air. “Today is a festival! What better time to mingle with members of the public, especially those who came so far to visit us? And this way, he won’t be by himself!”

Sanshirou curled his lip and scowled. “Fine. But just so you know, the elders are not going to be happy about this. I will be letting them know.” He spun around and marched off in the direction of the battlefield with purpose. His Prinplup nearly fell over trying to follow, waddling in a panic to keep up.

Lisa cupped her hands around her mouth. “Narc!” she screamed. She grumbled and turned back. “Was that your rival or something?”

Haruto shook his head. “No, he is my cousin.” Sanshirou could be harsh, but his criticism was always fair and well-meaning. At least, he hoped there was no ill intent behind it.

He looked down at his feet and swallowed. The possibility of his cousin being in the right made his stomach turn and his toes curl. Just because Priestess Satomi approved did not mean the rest of his family would. Still, a part of him wanted to speak with Lisa. He had a feeling that it would be enjoyable.

“Well he’s a jerk!” Lisa stomped a foot. Her face and limbs tightened. “You shouldn’t treat family that way!”

“And where are you trying to sneak off to?”

Haruto jerked his head over to Priestess Satomi. Her Blastoise, Otohime, was now out of her Poke Ball and obstructing Tsumugi’s path. She matched every movement made to go around her. The little Oshawott eventually turned to barking and waving her scalchop at the unflinching tortoise.

“Oh. I apologize, Tsumugi.” He had forgotten about it due to the interruption. “I can go get you your honey now.”

Lisa reached into her pocket and raised an amber jar over her head. “I just bought some. We can share it!”

Haruto gasped. A guest was offering her generosity to him. He was smiling involuntarily and his chest was tingling, but it was not right. He raised a hand and waggled it. “Oh, no. I could not ask that–”

But it was too late. Lisa had already unscrewed the lid and was holding it in front of Tsumugi. “Here you go! Take some!”

The Oshawott squealed joyfully. She took her scalchop, jammed it into the jar, and scooped out so much that some of it fell on the ground and her body! With a huge glob in hand, she quickly scurried off into a corner and started digging in.

Lisa flinched back and vocalized as Tsumugi retreated. She stood and raised the jar to eye level. A sharp laugh escaped her. “Ha! You rotten scamp!” With this, she raised it for all to see. Haruto nearly choked. It was almost empty!

Priestess Satomi chortled heartily. “Well, enjoy yourself, Shaman Haruto!” was all that she said before leaving, whistling an opening to an old anime.

Haruto looked at the others. Cerise was curling her leaves, but otherwise appeared unbothered. Lisa’s Pokemon had already landed and was sipping the honey on the ground. Hugo remained completely still and stoic.

He clutched his head. Just because they were okay with it did not mean he was. He placed his hands together and bowed profusely. “I cannot apologize enough to you, Lisa. Tsumugi took nearly all the honey you bought.”

“Eh, not a big deal to get more if I have to,” she said with a shrug. “Plus he doesn’t eat a lot anyway.”

Haruto pressed a hand over his heart. It did not make Tsumugi’s actions acceptable. The next person she did that to might not be as forgiving as Lisa. The otter was still greedily slurping up the honey. It pained him to have to be firm with his Pokemon. It was a little late to correct her wrongdoing now, as she had already eaten half of it, yet she needed to be scolded.

“By the way, how did you get an Oshawott?” Lisa asked. “They’re not native to your country, let alone the region!”

He paused. Perhaps he could do so later. “She was a gift from my parents,” he said simply. There was a larger story as to how he came to own her, but it would take a while to explain.

“Was she your starter?”

He confirmed. “Yes. Is your, um.” He gestured to the ladybug. It shamed him to have to ask the species name of a Pokemon.

“His name’s Impulse! He’s an Orbeetle!” Lisa proudly declared, kneeling and patting him on the wings with a finger. “I caught him two years ago, back when he was still a Blipbug. I threw one of mum’s Poke Balls at him to shoo him out of the garden, and suddenly, I had my first Pokemon! It was a total accident. But a good one to make!”

Haruto’s mouth fell slightly agape. He had heard many stories about how trainers had come to know their Pokemon. Some had been caught unintentionally and become trusted partners, but this was the first case he heard of becoming someone’s first partner. “That is a unique story,” he remarked. Perhaps it was no accident, rather a fated meeting.

“Get that a lot!” Lisa giggled. “We’re thick as thieves now!” Impulse affirmed this by raising a hand and buzzing.

“I can see that.” His shoulders dropped. It was reassuring to hear that from her. He had heard people speak negatively about people from Galar in the past, particularly regarding their views on Pokemon battles. Perhaps they were mistaken or exaggerating? “So what brings you to Celestic Town?” he inquired, before adding, “If I may ask.”

“I won a contest for a cultural trip back in my hometown, Circhester,” Lisa explained as she finally sat down next to him. She propped herself up with her palms. “I got picked in a raffle.” She rubbed her chin before continuing, “My schoolmate, Melony? She won a tournament to get in.”

“That was fortunate.” Perhaps there was an element of truth to what he heard about the region if battles were the determining factor in selecting the other winner, and not who would appreciate it the most. It appeared she did. “Are you enjoying our town? And our festival?”

“You bet!” she raised her thumbs and took a deep breath. “It’s been ace learning about ancient history, and especially seeing the statues and monuments! It’s been broadening my horizons, just as I wanted! I was flabbergasted by all the different stalls here! I thought it’d be all shrine-related, and I really enjoyed those too. But I saw one with Pokemon Rangers from Almia, and they looked cool with their spinny disc things! There were also Pokemon photographers, Pokemon trading cards, and I even got this!” She took the bag off her shoulder, unzipped it, and pulled out a floppy disk. “A computer program about learning to use a keyboard with a Pokemon theme! I already know how to type, but it should be interesting for practice!”

Haruto blinked and examined it closer. He knew they made all sorts of Pokemon-themed products, but a program was hard to believe. Personal computers were not very widespread yet. Priestess Satomi was the only other person he knew who owned one. But there it was, written in the English language on the label with equivalent katakana beneath: Learn With Pokemon: Conquer the Keyboard!

“Well, I am glad you are enjoying yourself,” he sputtered, unsure what else to say about it.

“Yup! I think the thing that surprised me the most was–” She paused and scratched her cheek. “Okay, second most after that weirdo rambling about Japan.”

“What?” Haruto ruffled his hair.

“In a stall. He was dressed like a samurai and was talking like a preacher.” The girl chuckled nervously. “I backed. Away. Slowly.”

Haruto was unsure what to think. Was it an actor of some kind? He could not be an actual preacher. Spreading a competing faith was the only thing disallowed. Otherwise, they did not discriminate when offering people a space during their festivals.

“But besides him, there was the battlefield.” She pointed in its general direction. “Melony’s over there last I looked, probably tearing it up. I didn’t expect to find one at a shrine!”

He sat up straighter and cleared his throat. That was something he could elaborate on. “Battling with Pokemon is one way to bond with them. That is why we have a place for it here.”

“Wish some of my classmates didn’t think it was the only way.”

Haruto tilted his head and rubbed an ear. “Oh? What do you mean?”

“Ah, never you mind.” She turned away. He had no time to dwell on her mumbled words, as she noticed someone approaching them. “Oh, Melony. Done with battles, or did something happen?”

Her friend was a hefty, wide-hipped girl with silvery-green hair and azure eyes. She wore a pale white kimono, similar to a Froslass’ cloak. “It’s Mrs. Tipple,” she grumbled.

Lisa groaned and pulled in her legs. “Does she want us to go back to the inn already?”

“Well, not exactly, but also sort of. You see–” Melony stared up at the sky for a brief moment. “Actually, it might be best if you come look for yourself.”

“All right.” Lisa jumped to her feet and motioned. “You come too, Haruto!”

He glanced over at Hugo as the girls started out. The man stared back. This was his decision. His Pokemon appeared to be done eating; Cerise was sitting back while Tsumugi was practicing her Razor Shell. So he reached into his pocket. “Cerise, Tsumugi, return for now.”

The little Cherubi nodded as she was recalled, but Tsumugi screeched in surprise. Lisa and her friend were already well on their way – they seemed to be headed for the other side of the grounds. He motioned to Hugo and hustled to follow.

 

[System Error]

Haruto hurried over to the opposite side of the shrine. As he caught up to Lisa and Melony, it became apparent that a commotion was taking place. A group of people, including Sanshirou and Priestess Satomi, had gathered near some benches. The cause was clear – it was a safe assumption that this was Mrs. Tipple. She had a red hair bun, and wore a beige coat, black flats, and an ankle-length skirt. The air of professionalism they provided was extinguished by how she was motionless on the ground.

“Hello. Your teacher’s pissed,” the elderly priestess greeted the girls. “In more ways than one, heh. At least she found something to enjoy here.”

Lisa eyed the sake stall to the left and shook her head. “Bloody hell,” she cursed.

Melony peered down at the unconscious woman with a scowl. She turned to her schoolmate. “We ought to get her back to the inn.”

“Of all the reasons to leave early!” Lisa pouted, rubbing an eye. “I was having fun!”

“Same here. This mess interrupted my battle with him,” she said, gesturing to Sanshirou. He remained surprisingly quiet about it. “We’ll also have to think about our plans for tomorrow. I can’t imagine things are too keen after this.”

“I know!” Lisa turned and took a step toward him. She flashed a big smile and leaned in. Her pink eyes sparkled. “Say, Haruto? You seem all right, so can I ask a big favor of you?”

“I…” She was pretty close. Too close! He raised his palms and took a step back. “I cannot say if I will be able to oblige, but you may ask.”

“Smashing!” Lisa pumped her arms. “We want to go and see Mount Coronet tomorrow, but we could use a guide so we don’t get lost. Is it all right for you to accompany us? I figure a Kannagi would know their way around it.”

Mount Coronet, the center of the region. He would have to travel to its summit someday after he turned sixteen, which would be in roughly a month and two years. It was a place any Kannagi old enough to travel was at least acquainted with.

“I have only been to it three times myself,” he confessed. It was best to be honest about it. “However, I know the way there and the main paths through. So I believe I might be able to?”

“You cannot,” Sanshirou spoke up, putting an arm in front. He glanced at him while shaking his head. “Not only are you inexperienced, it is also an asinine request.”

“You’re asinine!” Lisa shouted.

Melony rolled her eyes. “I hope you’re not just mad since I was whooping you,” she said with a smirk.

Sanshirou lowered his head. “The battle was just getting started. I was about to turn the tide before this interruption,” he blustered. Perhaps it really was a sore point. “I apologize. Regardless of your circumstances, we cannot help with such a request on a whim.”

“Sanshirou.”

His cousin turned to him. “What?” he snapped, tapping a foot.

What? He had spoken up without thinking. But he wanted to speak. His cousin’s sharp gaze made him shrink back. Actually, everyone was looking at him. His chest thumped and his knees vibrated, both begging him to reconsider.

“Do you have a rebuttal, Shaman Haruto?” Priestess Satomi prodded.

He did. Why did he? His throat itched, trying to silence him. But his mind screamed in protest. He adhered to the latter, shutting his eyes and saying what he needed to.

“It is the duty of the Kannagi Shrine to lend assistance to those in need,” he began. He waited for a second, certain that he was about to be interrupted. When it passed with nothing, he continued. “It does not matter what it is, so long as it is not negative and something that we are capable of doing. We are also among the most familiar with Mount Coronet in the region. Lisa has decided to personally ask for my assistance. I do not know if I am the ideal person for the job, but if it is permissible, I will do my best to help her.”

It went silent. Haruto opened his eyes. No one was saying anything or even moving. They were all just staring at him. People from as far away as the end stalls were doing so. Their gazes felt different from before, and he was uncertain how to interpret them.

“Um, is that sensible?” he asked, holding his breath.

Priestess Satomi’s gaping mouth turned into a huge smile. “That was very well said, Shaman Haruto. I’m impressed.”

She began to clap. Several others followed suit. Haruto could only exhale and rub the back of his head.

“Oh. Thank you,” he said, turning away. It was only a logical argument. He did not feel it was worthy of applause.

Sanshirou growled and threw up his arms. “You cannot be serious,” he dissented. “Haruto is only thirteen, and the only experience he has with duties outside of the shrine has been this morning. Mount Coronet is a dangerous place. He is unqualified to guide visitors to it, let alone around it, for multiple reasons.”

“How is he going to get the experience if he doesn’t have the opportunity, Shaman Sanshirou?” Priestess Satomi countered. The older teenager glared as she continued. “He’s nearly fourteen. I think it’s a suitable task to help him learn. Besides, he’ll have Hugo to protect him, and some folks from the shrine to assist further.”

Sanshirou rolled his eyes. “And you believe that Hugo will go along with this? The role of our bodyguards is to keep us safe. This includes proactively keeping us away from danger.” He nodded to his own, concealed amidst the crowd, then turned to Hugo expectantly.

Yes, that was right. While it was common practice for members of the shrine to aid a Kannagi in their duties, this was predicated on what his overly strict bodyguard wished to do. Haruto lowered his head as the man crossed his arms.

“I go wherever his duty takes him,” the man said. He looked over and gave him a firm nod.

Haruto sputtered. Was that confirmation that he was all right with it?! He tried to thank him, but no words came out. He was too dazed. But he did manage to return the nod.

Sanshirou’s eyes widened. He stepped forward and made one final protest. “This is not your decision to make, Priestess Satomi!” he argued, voice straining halfway through.

“And it isn’t yours either,” she said, lowering her voice. Haruto shuddered. She rarely used that tone. Thankfully, it softened with her next words. “You are overreacting, Shaman Sanshirou. Quite frankly, there is no need to be jealous.”

“I am NOT jealous!” he snapped, gritting his teeth and scowling. He shoved a finger in her face. “I’m telling Master Iwao Kannagi about this! Then we’ll see who’s right!”

Haruto covered his mouth as his cousin bolted for the front of the shrine. He was not worried. Well, that was not entirely true. He was worried about his cousin. What had gotten into him?

“NARC!” Lisa screamed even louder than before. She turned to address everyone present. “He’s absolutely jealous.”

Haruto gasped, as did much of the crowd. He could not believe she just said something so disrespectful in front of everyone!

“He absolutely is,” Priestess Satomi replied almost immediately. She tilted her head towards Melony. “Wonder why?”

That caused another strong reaction. But after it passed, it gave way to uncomfortable agreement. Even the other elders shook their heads at the situation.

“If it’s about the battle, tell him I’ll beat him anytime.” Melony turned to him, placing a hand on her cheek and forehead. “So let me guess. Is he your big rival here?”

“No. It is just…” Why did they both think he was a rival? He paused and inhaled. “He is mad at me for some reason.”

Haruto could not fathom why. Sanshirou had never acted this way before. His cousin had honored Mighty Dialga in the past, so it was unrelated to that. If it was jealousy, then what was it?

“Anyway, forget him!” Lisa wiggled a hand before placing them together. “So it sounds like it’s okay, right? Can you help us out?”

“It should be okay, yes,” Priestess Satomi confirmed with a nod. “I’ll sort out the logistics. You all just get ready. It’s gonna be a big hike!”

“Great! Thanks a bunch!” Lisa hopped and made a bow which, again, was more like what a person would do on stage. “We’re staying at the Cozy Snorlax Inn at the west side of town. See you tomorrow!”

She looked back at her teacher, who had not stirred in the slightest during that quarrel. Perhaps it was for the best, yet it presented a problem of its own.

“Well, I guess we just gotta get there.” She turned to the crowd with a nervous chuckle. “Can someone help us carry her?”

“No need. I’ll handle this. Lapis!” Melony reached into her satchel and tossed a Poke Ball from it.

Haruto flinched a little as something way bigger than he was expecting popped out: a large blue and cream sea creature with a hard gray shell. The large Lapras squeaked adorably.

“I know it’s over land, but would you mind ferrying Mrs. Tipple to the road for us?” Melony gestured to the the south. “It shouldn’t be far.”

The Pokemon craned their neck down, uncertain about how to go about it. Thankfully, a few of the adults stepped in without prompting to help hoist the unconscious woman onto their back. With a nod, the Pokemon started pushing forward with their flippers. It was a slow process, but there was transportation waiting near the shrine for those in need.

Lisa turned as they were halfway to the torii and gave him one last wave. Haruto reciprocated before turning back to Priestess Satomi. Finally, let it all out. He sighed and slumped.

“Why did she ask me?” he asked his mentor.

“I can think of a few reasons,” Priestess Satomi said with a wink and a snap of her fingers. “Just make sure you do your best tomorrow.”

“Do not worry, I will.” That was a given.

Sanshirou was correct. There were Kannagis experienced with every corner of Mount Coronet. By comparison, Haruto barely qualified to guide visitors around it. But he did qualify, and so he would step up to the task. Hopefully, he would not need to rely on his help too much.

 

[System Error]

A number of the Kannagi family and their faithful lived on the grounds of the shrine. Once upon a time, when the family was not as splintered due to disagreements, it was the exclusive residence of the Master of the Shrine, their immediate family, and their most trusted confidants. The remainder lived on the surrounding hills. These days, there were enough rooms for every Kannagi who remained, plus some extra.

Haruto had a room to himself for as long as he could remember. There was little to speak of in it. He had a futon to sleep on and a closet where he kept the few clothes he owned. Besides those necessities, there was a half-filled bookshelf, a desk, and a radio (which was a gift from Priestess Satomi), and a few other miscellaneous items. He had few wants.

Most days started the same way. He would wake up to peace and tranquility, sometimes with sunlight filtering in through his drapes. Today, the sound of chattering and murmuring from outside welcomed him back from a dreamless slumber.

The teenager sat up and rubbed his eyes. Perhaps there was an abnormally large amount of cleanup that needed to be made after the festival. It was never something he minded, for maintaining the shrine was an important duty. He looked around the room. Tsumugi was snoring soundly to his left. Cerise was already awake, trying to climb to the sill of the tall window.

He rose with a small smile. That sort of behavior was associated with Cherrim, but Cerise was already particularly eager to bask in the sun’s rays. With that, he walked over to the drapes and opened them.

Haruto initially locked up at what he witnessed, looking closer when he regained his bearings. People and Pokemon were running around frantically and aimlessly, as if searching for something. Among them were several uniformed police officers evidently conducting an investigation. In fact, a member of the Jenny family was speaking with Master Iwao Kannagi himself off in the distance.

He slowly shook his head as he stepped away and clutched himself. Everything was fine when he went to sleep last night. What happened? It was serious enough to prompt the involvement of the Master and the police, that much was clear.

Cerise turned to face him. He tried to smile in reassurance, but surely even she could tell it was forced. “I suppose there is only one way to find out what this is,” he remarked to her, to which she bobbed.

---​

After getting dressed in his formal robe, Haruto went downstairs. The lobby of the administrative office was spacious. The tatami mats, cushions, and sitting tables made it a place to congregate. Almost all of those present wore uneasy expressions, to the point that most did not notice his presence. The one exception was Priestess Satomi, who had been watching the stairwell. No better person to turn to for answers, particularly as she was already approaching him.

“Good morning, Priestess Satomi,” he greeted his elder.

“Morning, Shaman Haruto,” the graying-haired woman replied. She briefly glanced back and scratched her cheek. “Long shot, but I may as well ask. Have you happened to see our Adamant Orb around anywhere?”

He slowly blinked. “Was the Adamant Orb stolen last night?” he asked, his throat clenching. Mighty Dialga would not be pleased with them.

“Oh, sorry. Not the real one,” she clarified, shaking her head. “I meant the replica we use for display during festivals.”

He put a hand on his chest and nodded. That was a relief. They had an actual Adamant Orb that they kept enshrined, among other relics. If they had somehow lost the genuine artifact, no amount of atonement would ever appease the gods.

“Of course, it still cost us a chunk of change,” the elderly woman grumbled. “If you’re wondering how it happened, the rest of us have been asking that too.”

It was a puzzling question. They kept the replica in an anti-Psychic glass container on a repurposed lantern under a patio cover. Stanchion ropes surrounded it, with two guards in front, and a barricade at the back. Even if something got around the barriers, the guards would have noticed.

A sudden tightness gripped his heart. He stepped forward. “Will this affect the plans I made yesterday?”

Priestess Satomi raised a thumb. “Nope, it’s still on. You’ll be headed over there after breakfast. Hugo and Acolyte Aya will be assisting you.” She rubbed a cheek. “Goes without saying, don’t talk about this.”

He lowered his head. “I was expecting you to accompany me.” Or at least someone he was more familiar with.

“I was going to, till this happened.” The woman tapped a foot. “Can’t spare many hands right now. But I know you’ll do just fine!”

Tight as his neck was, he managed a nod. That was something he hoped for.

As he was beginning to leave, Priestess Satomi called out to him. “One more thing, Shaman Haruto.” He spun around and saw she was smirking. “Change out of your robe before you go. Wear something nicer!”

Haruto looked down at himself. He had so few casual clothes. Still, he always trusted his mentor’s advice, even when it seemed strange.

---​

The Kannagi Shrine primarily sourced its food from within. They grew fruit, vegetables, and berries in a garden on the western part of the shrine. They also owned a small farm just south of Celestic Town where there were chickens, more crops (including rice), various milk-providing Pokemon and animals, and ethical meat sources – namely, Pokemon that were not seriously harmed by the process. The remainder was either bought or gifted.

A modest building in front of the garden served as a kitchen and a cafeteria. It was also where they prepared food for their festivals. Haruto stepped inside, and immediately spotted Sanshirou. His cousin’s eyebrows furrowed upon seeing him. Before he knew it, the older teenager was on his feet.

“Haruto,” he said as he lumbered over rigidly. “We need to speak.”

His cousin had been waiting for him. A massive lump formed in his throat. He managed to swallow it before answering. “Okay. What is it you wish to speak about?”

Sanshirou crinkled his nose. He was silent for several long, agonizing seconds. He slowly drew in a deep long breath. “You understand the importance of today, right?” he asked lowly.

A small huff involuntarily escaped Haruto’s mouth. He put a hand on his chest. A rant seemed imminent, if not worse. It was a relief to see that Sanshirou was being somewhat reasonable after yesterday.

He quickly nodded. “Yes,” he affirmed. “I am representing the Kannagi Shrine to our guests. It is an important duty, and I will help them to the best of my ability. I should be able to answer any questions they have, and will do my best to guide them and keep them safe.”

His cousin scoffed. “You will keep them safe. With your Pokemon? Your unevolved Pokemon. It has been nearly two years for your first partner. What have you been doing?” he berated.

“I…” He shook his head. That was disrespectful at best, no matter the seniority his cousin held. “I have been training Tsumugi and Cerise as is expected of me. They will evolve when they are ready.”

Sanshirou was silent for several seconds. “Haruto, it seems you do not fully understand the situation, so let me make it clear,” his cousin said as his right eye twitched. “As a Kannagi, everything you do is subject to more scrutiny. Even seemingly trifling things such as being overshadowed in a battle or poor posture can prove detrimental to not only your own public standing, but that of the shrine as well.”

Haruro was slumping due to the unprovoked lecture, and reflexively stood up straight despite not being in a public place.

“I know, Sanshirou,” he replied. He was fully aware of what was expected of him. “I will do my best not to bring shame upon myself or our family.”

“To say so is one thing.” Sanshirou crossed his arms. “To be capable of doing so is another.”

“Sanshirou, why is it that you take umbrage with my doing this?” Haruto demanded, recoiling after he did so. His frustration slipped out. “With all due respect,” he hastily added, wincing after saying so. People who have to say that are rarely respectful. While his cousin was acting somewhat irrational, there must have been some reason for his criticisms.

Sanshirou curled his lip. “I’ll say one last thing,” he said quietly, slipping out of his formal tone. “These people are relying on you. If you get them into danger, you won’t get any other chances. For anything. So know your limits.”

He was blatantly evading the question. It was not his place to pry into why. Haruto only smiled and responded, “I will not fail.”

Sanshirou walked off without a further word or even an acknowledgment. A thought fleeted through his mind. Priestess Satomi noted that he was jealous. Did his cousin want this opportunity? If so, it would not be too much trouble to arrange his presence, their guests’ willingness permitting. However, Sanshirou was already long gone by the time the thought occurred.

For better or worse, few others in the dining hall had witnessed that. It was only the head chef, his younger cousin Nanami, Priest Warutsu, two of the acolytes, and his bodyguard. Hugo rose from the wall he was leaning against and approached.

“Hugo,” Haruto greeted, turning away slightly. As much as he hated to admit it, Sanshirou had a point. He could be careful, but there was always the possibility of water in a sleeping ear. “May I count on your assistance today?”

A nod. “If necessary. But your cousin is correct about one thing.” The man crossed his arms and narrowed his gaze. “Avoid danger in the first place.”

Haruto huffed. “That should go without saying.” That was unnecessary advice. He looked over at the counter. One could simply take what they desired from it. “Shall we eat before we go?”

“I’ve eaten.” The man motioned with a slight movement of his wrist and once again took up a sentry position against a wall.

With this, he grabbed a plate and idly grabbed scraps of food without thinking. He was not very hungry, so this was only for the sake of his stamina.

Haruto sat down to eat and think. He had no idea what to expect from the group or even Acolyte Aya, whom he had yet to personally meet. On paper, this was an easier task than the First Light Ceremony. He prayed it would hold true in practice as well, because a sense of dread gripped his mind. He hoped it was the pressure weighing on him and not something more.