Pokémon Pokémon: Rise Against (Completed)

[Sarnick18]

A Dark Fantasy Fanfic, Pokémon Rise Against. In the aftermath of tragedy, Seth Conklin finds himself grappling with loss and guilt as he navigates a Kanto under the crushing power of Team Rocket. Seth embarks on a desperate journey to protect his son, Erin, and seek redemption in a world tainted by darkness.


Link for Music Playlist the story is structured around.

Discord: Discord Link'

Book Format: Google Doc

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 1​

Behind Closed Doors​

Although we have no obligation, to stay alive

On broken backs we beg for mercy, we will survive

(Break out) I won't be left here

Behind closed doors.



—Rise Against​

I

​

The auditorium was filled with a restless energy as the lights flickered, casting an eerie glow upon the stage. Suddenly, a single spotlight illuminated a figure standing at the center, revealing Professor Oak. His clothes, once vibrant, now appeared dingy and worn, reflecting the toll the last decade has brought on. The weary lines etched on his face spoke of countless sleepless nights and the burden of a world gone astray. Dressed in faded garments, the remnants of a once-impeccable outfit, Professor Oak stood before the crowd. His voice quivered with a mix of tiredness, anger, and the deep-rooted pain that had settled within him. With every word he spoke, you could sense the weight of his emotions, the fervent desire to inspire change and ignite a flame of rebellion.

"Listen," he began, his voice commanding but carrying a raw edge that revealed his inner turmoil. "Today, I stand before you not only as a researcher but as a witness to the oppression that has befallen Kanto. Team Rocket, their iron grip tightening with each passing day, has left our region shattered after the brutal war with Johto. Their tyrannical reign has plunged our society into darkness, burdening us with unbearable taxes that suffocate our very existence. With the only escape provided winning the league and fleeing to the very nation that brought this pain to our door."

As Professor Oak spoke, his words hung heavy in the air, painting a vivid picture of the desolation that Team Rocket had imposed upon Kanto. The stench of decay and the echoes of despair permeated the street. "We cannot remain silent any longer!" Professor Oak's voice resonated with a mix of determination and righteous anger. "The time has come to rise against the tyranny that smothers us. We must unite as a collective force of resilience. It is our duty to fight for the freedom and future of Kanto, to honor the memory of those lost and bring an end to this era of suffering."

With each word, the professor's voice grew stronger, infused with a fire that could not be extinguished.

His eyes, once filled with weariness, now blazed with a fierce resolve, urging the crowd to shed their fear and embrace their true potential. The auditorium echoed with a shared sense of purpose, a spark of rebellion ignited within each listener. "We shall be the beacon of light in this darkness," Professor Oak proclaimed, his voice carrying a profound sense of hope. "Together, we will reclaim our home. Let the ashes of despair fuel the flames of revolution. Let us stand united and face Team Rocket head-on, dismantling their grip on our beloved region!"

As his rallying cry echoed through the auditorium, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, their hearts brimming with newfound determination. The speech had not only inspired them to rise against the oppressive regime but also awakened a dormant strength within, the resilience to face the darkest of battles and emerge victorious.

Professor Oak, a weary researcher with a soul scarred by the death of so many, had become their beacon of hope. Together, they would embark on a perilous journey, ready to confront the horrors that awaited them. For Kanto, for the fallen, and for a future bathed in liberation, they would stand as one, defying the shadows that threatened to consume them.

The resounding cheers that filled the auditorium abruptly halted, replaced by a suffocating silence that hung in the air like a heavy fog. Dread permeated every corner of the building as two figures emerged, clad in black outfits adorned with the unmistakable red "R" symbol on their chests. One took their place on the right side of the stage, while the other positioned themselves on the left. They exude an aura of authority, their presence a stark reminder of the power and reach of Team Rocket. "Attention," shouted the Team Rocket member on the right, his voice dripping with contempt. "All operations cease immediately."

The audience tensed, their eyes wide with apprehension, their hopes flickering amidst the encroaching darkness. The second Team Rocket member, standing on the left, spoke with a chilling detachment, his tone devoid of empathy. "Professor Oak, you will be executed on this very spot for treason. Anyone wishing to aid this traitor will join him."

However, amidst the palpable fear, Professor Oak stood his ground. With a mixture of defiance and determination, he faced the Team Rocket members, his voice trembling with both weariness and unwavering resolve. "Pathetic?" he retorted, his words carrying a hint of bitterness. "Your reign has brought nothing but suffering and despair upon our people. I refuse to submit any longer". As Professor Oak's voice echoed through the auditorium, a brief pause filled the space, the silence heavy with anticipation.

The Team Rocket members exchanged knowing glances, their faces contorted with smugness. "Foolish old man," scoffed the one on the right.

The one on the left chimed in with a sadistic smirk. "Enjoy the consequences of your defiance." In that critical moment, Professor Oak's hands moved instinctively to the pokéballs strapped to his hip. His fingers tightened around them, their presence a comforting reassurance against the encroaching darkness. The room braced for what would come next, knowing that the battle ahead would not only be fought with Pokémon but with the sheer will to defy Team Rocket's tyranny. With each passing second, the air grew heavier, pregnant with the weight of the impending conflict.

As the tension reached its zenith, the Team Rocket members on opposite sides swiftly retrieved their pokéballs, tossing them with practiced precision. A burst of crimson light engulfed the stage, revealing the unleashed horrors upon the auditorium. From the pokéball on the right, a Raticate materialized, its once-innocent form now twisted into a grotesque embodiment of malice. Its fangs gleamed with a malevolent luster, razor-sharp and stained with the blood of countless victims. Its eyes burned with a sinister white glow, exuding a predatory hunger that sent shivers down the spines of those unfortunate enough to meet its gaze. Its fur stood on end, as if crackling with a dark, otherworldly energy that amplified its lethal capabilities. Every movement it made dripped with malevolence, infecting the very air with an aura of dread.

On the left side of the stage, the summoned Golbat emerged from its pokéball. Its wings stretched wide, casting an ominous shadow that seemed to swallow the light around it. Its sickly purple skin clung tightly to its skull like frame, accentuating the macabre nature of its existence. Jagged fangs protruded from its gaping maw, dripping with a venom so potent that it promised a swift and agonizing demise to any who crossed its path. Its eyes, pitch black and devoid of empathy, gleamed with hatred, relishing in the chaos and suffering it could inflict upon its adversaries. Its wings fluttered with an unsettling grace, leaving behind a trail of darkness that seemed to mock the very essence of life.

With a thunderous roar, Professor Oak released his own Pokémon, a Poliwrath, onto the stage. The water-type Pokémon stood tall, its blue and white orb-like body shimmering with moisture. The unmistakable black swirl on its belly seemed to pulsate with an untamed power, reflecting the unyielding spirit of its trainer. Its eyes burned with a fierce determination, a reflection of the fire that blazed within Professor Oak's own gaze.

"Mega Punch!" Professor Oak's command thundered through the auditorium, carrying with it a mixture of fury and unwavering resolve. In a blinding flash, Poliwrath vanished from sight, reappearing with lightning speed on the right side of the stage. Its fist, charged with a torrent of raw power, pierced through Raticate's head, impaling it through the mouth. Gasps of horror filled the air as Raticate's lifeless body convulsed, blood pouring from the grotesque wound. The malevolent light in its eyes faded, replaced by a chilling stillness. The once-terrifying creature now lay motionless, defeated by the unleashed fury or Poliwrath's devastating attack.

The audience stood frozen, their breath caught in their throats, witnessing the brutal display of strength. The battle had only just begun, but in that moment, a glimmer of hope rang through the darkness, igniting a flicker of resistance in the hearts of those who still dared to dream of liberation.

As Raticate’s Team Rocket trainer command disappeared, the other's voice roared, "Poison Fang, kill it now!", a horrifying aura permeated the auditorium, suffocating the hopeful atmosphere that once filled the space. Golbat, fueled by its trainer's malevolent intent, lunged ferociously at Poliwrath, its mouth agape, venomous fangs poised to strike with lethal precision.

Professor Oak, amidst the encroaching darkness, responded with unwavering resolve. "Catch it, Poliwrath!" he commanded, his voice slicing through the tension like a blade. In a breathtaking display of agility, Poliwrath leaped into the air, its webbed hands snatching Golbat mid-flight, rendering the creature's attack futile. With Golbat's wings hopelessly trapped within Poliwrath's grasp, it struggled relentlessly, desperate to sink its fangs into Poliwrath's flesh. But the poison dripped uselessly onto Poliwrath's body. Professor Oak seized the fleeting moment, recognizing the perfect opportunity to strike back. "Water Gun!" Professor Oak's voice reverberated with unwavering authority, commanding Poliwrath to unleash its devastating water-based attack. Poliwrath's mouth, positioned at the top of its white section of his, orb-like body, widened with determination. From within, a focused torrent of water burst forth. The razor-sharp stream sliced through Golbat's fragile form clean in half, tearing it apart with a swift and decisive force. The gruesome remnants of the defeated creature, once a fearsome presence, were flung aside, landing with a sickening thud on either side of the stage. The auditorium descended into a stunned silence, broken only by the haunting sounds of dripping water and the heavy breaths of the audience.

Just as Professor Oak prepared to confront the retreating Team Rocket members, his gaze abruptly shifted towards the stage. To his horror, he witnessed four blinding beams of light piercing through the chaos, revealing the ghastly forms of four Electrodes. The air crackled with impending danger, and a wave of panic surged through the room. Chaos erupted as the terrified audience scrambled to escape, desperately pushing and trampling over one another in a frantic bid for safety. The audience members, caught in a frenzy of fear, began shouting and pleading for help. "Run! Get out of here!" cried a voice from the back, the urgency evident in their tone.

"Please, someone do something!" shouted a terrified man, his voice tinged with desperation. The exits became clogged with bodies, amplifying the sense of dread that permeated the auditorium. Desperate pleas for help mingled with screams of terror, creating a cacophony of fear that echoed through the halls.

Amidst the pandemonium, Professor Oak's heart sank, and a profound sadness washed over him. He knew the situation had spiraled beyond hope. With tears streaming down his face, he knelt before Poliwrath, gratitude and sorrow intermingling in his expression. Just as despair was consuming him entirely, a blinding white flash engulfed the room.

II

​

"Knock. Knock. Knock"

III

​

An older man with weathered hands opened up his newspaper, flattening out the front page to read the story more clearly. "A devastating explosion at Pallet Town Amphitheater, the result of heroic efforts by Team Rocket, claimed the lives of many terrorists, including the notorious Professor Oak," his voice echoed into the street from their porch. "Fucking garbage," grumbled Harold in frustration. "Labeling innocent people as terrorists? That's a load of shit!"

"Why even read that nonsensical propaganda?" replied Samuel, shaking his head in disbelief. "Those poor people."

Benjamin, the eldest among them, nodded solemnly. Amidst the seriousness of their conversation, a burst of lightheartedness unfolded right before their eyes. Erin Conklin, a spirited 4-year-old boy with light brown skin and curly hair, fearlessly pounced on a Mankey, as it playfully scurried across the sidewalk onto the first step of the older mens' porch. Mankey's small, wiry frame and scrappy demeanor perfectly matched Erin's energetic spirit.

Harold couldn't help but chuckle at the sight. "Erin, you sure know how to show that Mankey who's boss! Don't go too rough on 'em now!" Erin giggled gleefully as he tussled with the Pokémon, their playful energy filling the room. Mankey hopped and jumped, delighted by the attention, as Erin playfully tried to tackle him, earning a series of joyful screeches and laughter. Seth Conklin, a slim pale younger man, with a stubble beard and short brown hair, walked up next to his son, on the sidewalk, drawn by the commotion. He glanced at the newspaper, concentrating on the distant picture.

"What's going on in the news?" he asked, his voice tinged with concern.

Samuel turned to Seth, the playfulness momentarily set aside. "They're saying there was an explosion at Pallet Town Amphitheater, attributing it to Team Rocket and claiming that Professor Oak was trying to overthrow Giovanni but was killed. It's all distorted, twisted nonsense." As the weight of the news lingered in the air, Seth, ever the soft-spoken figure, turned his attention to his neighbors.

"I'll be taking Erin hunting later to get something fresh for the restaurant. You're welcome to stop by later, bring as much money as you can," he chuckled.

Harold, never one to miss an opportunity for banter, playfully retorted, "Well, Seth, if you want me to bring in some serious cash, You better go and carry back a Bouffalant!" Laughter filled the room as the friends exchanged jovial remarks. As Seth carried Erin on his shoulders, Mankey playfully hopping on the other shoulder, they ventured through the once-thriving town that now appeared as a hollow shell of its past self.

The buildings stood like silent sentinels, their worn facades revealing the scars of neglect and time. Paint peeled from their surfaces, exposing the weathered wood. The streets, once bustling with life, now echoed with emptiness. When was the last time he saw the streets vibrant. Abandoned storefronts lined the path, their dusty windows reflecting a ghostly image of what used to be. The faded signs creaked in the wind, their messages barely legible anymore. The town's inhabitants, those who remained, moved with weary steps and downcast eyes.

Throughout the dismal atmosphere of their walk Seth just wanted to enjoy the time he had with his son. He looked and smiled at Erin who in return smiled back displaying the deep dimples he had on both checks. They always did bring a lightness in his heart.

IV

​

A hard knock echoed through the worn-out door once more, interrupting the quiet solitude of the small, modest building. A thin black woman stood before the door, her hazel eyes reflecting a mix of resilience and weariness. Her skin, smooth and rich in complexion, held traces of a life marked by both joy and struggle. Her slender frame exuded an air of quiet strength. "Sorry, we're closed," she uttered politely. Another knock rang through the room. Curiosity mingled with a sense of unease as she opened the door.

Standing before her was a member of Team Rocket, dressed in a menacing black uniform that seemed to devour the light around him. His face symbolized cruelty, sent shivers down her spine. Fear gripped her, freezing her in place as the intruder forcefully pushed his way inside. Her eyes widened with terror as she saw another member swiftly close the door behind him, sealing off any escape. The room seemed to shrink, suffocating her in its oppressive atmosphere. Unspoken threats hung heavy in the air, leaving her paralyzed with fear.

V

​

They approached the end of Westgate, the path leading towards Route 4 and the dense woods to the south, a sense of urgency weighed heavily on Seth's mind. He contemplated the pressing matter that haunted his thoughts—the impending burden of their taxes. He knew that Team Rocket, ruthless in their pursuit of power and control, would not hesitate to inflict severe consequences upon those who failed to meet their demands and couldn't fathom those consequences being put against his son. He saw first hand when they killed the Mcfadden family in the streets. With each step, the weight of their financial struggle bore down on Seth's shoulders. Their meager earnings from the struggling restaurant, coupled with mounting expenses, left them with a daunting shortfall of $5000. It felt like an insurmountable sum, a seemingly impossible hurdle to overcome.

Seth's gaze shifted to Erin, his innocent hazel eyes filled with wonder as he reached out to touch the leaves of a nearby tree. Is this really the last day he would get to spend with his boy? Erin's insatiable curiosity continued to blossom as they made their way through the woods. With each step, his inquisitive nature bubbled over, filling the air with a symphony of innocent yet incessant questions. "Daddy, where are we going?" Erin's bright hazel wide eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for clues.

"Somewhere," Seth replied with a hint of weariness, having grown accustomed to the repetitive nature of his son's inquiries.

Undeterred, Erin's little feet continued to tread the forest floor as he looked up at his father, his face alive with anticipation. "Are we almost there yet?"

"Almost,"

"What will we do there, Dad?"

"Hunt,"

"Why are we hunting?"

"Because I like food"

"Oh, me too! What city are we in?"

Seth couldn't help but chuckle, appreciating his son's endless curiosity. "Does this look like a city, buddy?"

"Nooooo," Erin drawled out, his response laced with amusement. "Do we live in Westgate?"

"Yup,"

"Why is it called Westgate?"

"Because it's west of Celadon City," he explained. As Erin's interest waned, he began to run ahead, eagerly climbing rocks that lined the path. Seth watched with fascination, marveling at his son's boundless energy and sense of wonder. As Seth and Erin continued their walk through the woods, a gentle breeze rustled the leaves above, carrying with it the sweet scent of nature. The tranquil melody of chirping bird Pokémon filled the air, as a fluttering of starly, pidgey, fletchling, swablu, and various other avian creatures perched on branches, their colorful feathers creating a picturesque scene.

The dappled sunlight filtered through the foliage, casting a warm and inviting glow upon the forest floor. The trail meandered alongside a peaceful stream, its crystal-clear waters glistening under the golden sunlight. A group of ducklett waded gracefully in the shallows, their vibrant blue plumage contrasting beautifully with the shimmering ripples of the stream. Their playful movements created small splashes that added to the symphony of nature's serenade.

As Seth and Erin ventured further, the forest embraced them with a sense of tranquility. The tall, majestic trees, their branches intertwining to form a natural canopy that offered respite from the sun's rays. Shafts of light filtered through the gaps, illuminating patches of wildflowers that dotted the forest floor, painting the scene with bursts of vibrant colors.

Their footsteps were blending harmoniously with the soothing sounds of nature. With each passing moment, the beauty of the forest enveloped them, filling their hearts with a sense of awe and gratitude for the wonders that surrounded them. Seth glanced around the tranquil forest and turned to Erin, his voice gentle yet firm. "Hold up here, buddy. Mankey, it's time. Go on, just like we practiced." Mankey obediently leaped off Seth's shoulder and scurried towards a nearby tree, skillfully scaling its trunk with nimble agility.

Seth turned his attention back to Erin, a reassuring smile on his face. "Now, Erin, I want you to take these Oran Berries and place them on the ground, right under Mankey."

Erin's bright eyes lit up with excitement as he carefully held the Oran Berries in his small hands. "Okay, Daddy!" With great concentration, Erin carefully arranged the Oran Berries on the ground.

Seth crouched down next to Erin, his voice filled with encouragement. "Good job, buddy! Now, follow me. Be very quiet." Seth gently led Erin by the hand, carefully guiding him out of sight behind a dense cluster of brush. They settled down, hidden from view, and patiently waited, the peaceful sounds of nature surrounding them. Time passed slowly, and the forest began to lull Erin into a deep slumber.

As an hour ticked by, the stillness of the forest was interrupted by the soft rustling of leaves. Seth's senses heightened, and he peered through the foliage, his heart pounding with anticipation. A beautiful Deerling, adorned in its delicate pink spring coat, emerged from the shadows and approached the carefully placed Oran Berries. The Deerling delicately nibbled on the berries, savoring their sweetness. It seemed at ease, unaware of the impending danger lurking above. In a swift and precise motion, Mankey descended from the treetops, unleashing a powerful Karate Chop that struck the Deerling's neck with deadly force.

VI

​

As Sarah stumbled backward in fear, her heart pounding, the Team Rocket members barged into her closed diner, their presence casting a shadow of intimidation over the small space. She desperately searched for her footing, her voice trembling as she tried to explain. "Please, I swear my husband just made the payment," Sarah stammered, her voice laced with genuine fear.

One of the Team Rocket members sneered, his eyes filled with disdain. "We were sent here to collect. No money has been given. Now where is our annual payment." Sarah starts crawling backwards speechless and confused. “Butch, it doesn't seem like she has what we need.”

The second member grinned wickedly, relishing in the power he held over Sarah. "Well, if you don't have our payment, then I guess we'll have to find some other way for you to repay us. Isn’t that right Darren? Perhaps some... entertainment." Sarah's heart raced, her mind racing for a way to escape. But before she could formulate a plan, the room was engulfed in a blinding flash of red light. A chilling hiss echoed through the air, and Sarah's eyes widened in horror as a Seviper materialized before her. Its purple and black scales glistening with venomous intent. Poison dripped from its fangs, and its tail swayed ominously.

The Seviper hissed with a bone-chilling intensity, its sound moving through the room. Sarah's breath caught in her throat as she recoiled in sheer terror. The realization of the danger that now lurked in her once-safe space overwhelmed her, and her mind raced for a way to escape. Butch’s horrifying voice echoed behind the menacing serpent, "Seviper, remove her legs so she doesn't escape from us."

As Seviper's dark aura intensifies, its sinister eyes fixate on Sarah with a chilling glare. In a swift and brutal motion, it lunges forward, its sharp tail slashing through the air like a deadly scythe. The sound of slicing flesh encompassed the room as Seviper's Night Slash connects with its target. Sarah's feet were abruptly severed from her body, torn apart with a horrifying force. The sight of her limbs, severed sinews, and gushing blood sends waves of terror through her. Sarah's agonizing screams pierce the air, mingling with the chilling hiss of Seviper. Butch looked upon Seviper's ruthless attack with a twisted sense of satisfaction.

"Excellent job, Seviper!" As he played with his long red beard thinking of what horrors to inflict next. He loomed over Sarah, his presence exuding horror. He glared down at her with cold, calculating eyes, relishing in the terror that gripped her. A twisted smile splits across his face, and all hope faded from Sarah's.

VII

​

As Seth made his way through the woods, the golden hues of the setting sun casted a glow over the surroundings. The gentle rustling of leaves and the soft chirping of Chatots created a peaceful ambiance. With a solemn expression, Seth carried the lifeless body of the Deerling over his shoulder, its delicate form draped over his worn grey flannel shirt. Mankey walked steadfastly beside him, its arms tucked behind its back, providing support for little Erin. The young boy's feet dragged lightly on the ground, his energy depleted, while he slept soundly, his head nestled between Mankey's ears.

Despite the weight of the moment, there was a sense of hope in the air as the trio continued their journey through the dusky woods, bathed in the ethereal glow of the setting sun. However, that hope quickly faded from him as his thoughts drew on to the reality of his situation. He just couldn't shake off the sense of guilt. He knew he shouldn't have lied to Sarah, but he felt cornered, as if he had no other choice. He didn’t want to live his last few days with his family with the noose visibly around his neck.

Was there hope that made him believe he could make the money in time or just willful ignorance put him in this position; probably just shame and fear. The deadline for the money he owed left them with limited options. Deep down, he knew he would have to leave tomorrow to pay for just his wife and son. Seth absentmindedly rubbed the rough stubble on his face, lost in a sea of thoughts and conflicting emotions. The weight of the situation bore down on him, evident in the weariness in his eyes. Each stroke against his skin was a momentary distraction, a futile attempt to clear his mind and find a solution. As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting long shadows through the trees, Seth's face mirrored the uncertainty and contemplation that consumed him.

The three made their way back to town, the fading light of day was replaced by the shroud of night. The once-familiar streets of Westgate took on an eerie atmosphere as the glow of the streetlights pierced through the coming darkness, casting long, distorted shadows on the worn pavement. The air was thick with a sense of unease, as if the town itself held its breath, waiting for something to happen. The dimly lit storefronts stood ominously, their closed shutters and darkened interiors adding to the sense of desolation. Even the familiar sounds of everyday life seemed muted, as if the night had stolen away the usual bustling activity.

Seth couldn't help but feel a chill creep up his spine as he walked through the streets. There was an undeniable weight to the night, a feeling that something lurked in the darkness, hidden from sight. The streetlights, though meant to bring comfort, instead heightened the sense of isolation and vulnerability. They pressed on, the night's embrace seemed to tighten, wrapping itself around the town and its weary inhabitants. His heart pounded in his chest, a mix of anticipation and trepidation filling his thoughts. He stood across the street just far enough where he could see his diner, a wave of fear washed over him.

The darkness enveloped the building, every light had been extinguished. His wife, Sarah, should have been inside, waiting for them. Why was the house so dark? The deerling slipped off his shoulder. He carefully picked up his sleeping son from Mankey. He then instructed Mankey to return to its Poké Ball, the red flash illuminated the sidewalk for a moment and Mankey dissipated.

As Seth's hurried footsteps echoed through the empty streets, his thoughts raced alongside them, entangled in worry and uncertainty. The dimly lit streets stretched out before him, a labyrinth of shadows that mirrored the labyrinth of his thoughts. Uncertainty gnawed at his core. With each passing moment, Seth's mind became a whirlwind of possibilities, each more distressing than the last.

The mere thought of Sarah, being in danger, sent a shiver down his spine. But standing side by side with that fierce love was an even greater fierce protectiveness for Erin. Putting their child in harm's way would not fucking happen. "Why would I lie to her?" Seth's thoughts whispered, a flicker of self-doubt in the depths of his mind. But deep down, he understood the twisted reality of Team Rocket's actions. They operated without rules or mercy, exploiting any perceived vulnerability with ruthless efficiency. Seth knew that promises alone couldn't shield his family from the looming threat and was it not his own action that set him in this hypothetical hellscape. Action was needed, and time was of the essence. As Seth pushed forward, his determination fueling his every step, he made a silent vow to Sarah.

"Once I return home," he promised in his mind, "I will explain everything. I will go to Cerulean City myself, and pay for both you and Erin. Perhaps the funds wouldn't be enough for all three of us, but I swear on everything, nothing will befall either of you."

Seth's heart pounded in his chest as he sprinted up the porch steps. He knocks on the door in the quiet night. Moments stretched into what felt like hours as he anxiously waited for Harold. Finally, the door creaked open, revealing Harold's groggy face, still drowsy from his interrupted sleep. “Harold, something's wrong with Sarah. The diner is closed, and all the lights are off. Team Rocket... I was supposed to pay them in a few days, but I don't know what happened. Sarah should be home, waiting for us. I don’t know, I might be assuming or overacting. I just have a feeling in my gut. I need to make sure she's alright.”

“Shit. What do you need from me?”

"Harold, I beg of you, keep a close eye on Erin. I'll rush back to our house and make sure Sarah's alright. But I need to know our son is safe in your care."

“Alright, alright. I'll watch over Erin for you. Go Go.”

Seth's heart pounded in his chest as he sprinted through the deserted streets. His legs carried him swiftly towards the familiar sight of the diner. As he neared the building, his pace slowed, and he crouched down. Moving with caution, he made his way to the back of the diner, His senses heightened, Seth prepared himself for whatever awaited him behind the closed door in front of him. With a swift motion, Seth released Mankey from its Pokéball and silently instructed, "side window, go!"

Mankey understood and nodded, quickly scaling the side of the building towards the side window, opened it and disappeared from sight. Meanwhile, Seth cautiously unlocked the door and pushed it open and stepped into the kitchen. The atmosphere inside was heavy with an unsettling stillness, amplifying his growing concern. Carefully, he made his way through the kitchen, his footsteps deliberate and soft. Every creak of the floorboards seemed magnified in the tense silence as he approached the dining area, his heart pounding.

As Seth flipped on the light switch, the room was bathed in a sudden brightness, revealing the expansive dining area before him. For a moment, relief washed over him as everything seemed to be in its rightful place at the right side of the diner. But as his gaze swept left across the room, his heart sank and his muscles tensed with dread. The sight that greeted him was far from the expected calmness. Tables were overturned, chairs strewn across the floor, and a sense of chaos filled the air. His breath caught in his throat as he stood frozen, his mind unable to comprehend the scene before him. With each hesitant step forward, his apprehension grew, his instincts warning him of the impending horror he was about to witness. The silence seemed to intensify, amplifying the weight of the unknown as he prepared himself to face the unimaginable.

His eyes then fell upon Sarah's motionless body, every fiber of his being rebelled against the horrifying scene that unfolded before him. The room felt suffocating. He couldn't tear his eyes away from the contorted expression frozen on Sarah's face, The once vibrant dark hue of her skin was now marred by deep, painful bruises. But it was the wound on her neck that horrified him. Dark veins snaked their way across her skin demonstrating the poison that had seeped into her veins. Necrosis had already begun its relentless march, claiming her flesh and leaving behind a harrowing spectacle of decay around the bite mark.

As Seth knelt beside her, his trembling hands hovered in the air, unsure of how to touch her fragile form. He noticed her pants were gone and the stubs where her feet had once been were drenched in dried blood. The air seemed to still, as if holding its breath, as Seth's anguished cry tore through the silence. It was a primal, gut-wrenching sound that reverberated through the empty room, carrying the weight of unbearable sorrow and anguish. It started as a low, guttural moan, emerging from the depths of his being, as if the very core of his soul was being torn apart. As the cry intensified, it transformed into a haunting wail, echoing off the walls with an eerie resonance. It was a sound devoid of any semblance of hope. The groan reverberated with a mixture of raw grief, anger, and disbelief, as if Seth's entire being had been consumed by an all-encompassing darkness.

VIII

​

Butch, nudged his partner Darren on the shoulder, directing his attention to the diner across the street. They both observed through the darkness the shape of a thin man crouched down and scurrying behind the building, catching their interest. Darren, eager for some more action, exclaimed, "Alright, showtime!"

However, Butch, with his commanding presence, raised his hand. "Why?” Darren questioned, “What's going on?" Just then, a quick flash of red light emanated from behind the building, swiftly disappearing. Following the burst of light, then some type of Pokémon scale the side of the building, effortlessly entering through a second-floor window.

"Alright, let's proceed. Prepare Seismitoad for action. As for whatever the fuck just climbed in upstairs, I leave it to you. Don’t fuck up, please."

IX

​

As Seth held Sarah's lifeless body, the front door of the diner was propelled across the room with an incredible force, crashing into the opposite wall. Emerging from the newly created opening, a colossal Seismitoad crouched through the doorway, its imposing presence filling the room.

In the midst of the chaos, a thickly built gentleman with a long red beard strode in, his voice booming, "Good afternoon, Mr. Conklin. I'm here to collect your taxes." The abrupt intrusion only added to the surreal and terrifying atmosphere. Reacting instinctively to the sudden threat, Seth grabbed his small knife and lunged at Butch in front of him. Butch swiftly caught Seth by the throat, overpowering him with ease. He slammed Seth forcefully into the ground, causing pain to surge through Seth's body. As Seth lay there, his gaze locked with Sarah's blood-soaked foot, inches from his face. "Let me try that again," still holding his throat Butch bends down closer, "where is my fucking money."

In a desperate attempt to intervene, Mankey leaped at Butch, his movements swift and silent. However, Darren's voice pierced the air, commanding Seismitoad to strike with a devastating "brick break." Seismitoad's muscular arm swung through the air, connecting with Mankey's left eye. The impact sent Mankey hurtling across the room, crashing against the wall before slumping down, his eye streaming with blood, caking to the matted fur.

"My money, Mr. Conklin."

Seth's voice quivered as he pleaded, desperation lacing his words. "I have it, I have it," he begged

"I highly doubt that, Mr. Conklin, or I wouldn't have had the time of my life with your wife here," he sneered, reveling in Seth's distress.

Seth's confession spilled forth, a mixture of guilt and fear. "I lied to her because I didn't have enough for the three of us, so I told her I already paid. I was going to leave tomorrow to pay for hers at Cerulean City."

Butch's gaze narrowed, his voice laced with derision. "And, of course, your son's payment too, right?" he inquired, already aware of the answer.

Seth's voice trembled as he affirmed, "Yes."

Butch released his grip on Seth, a malicious grin spreading across his face. "Well, that's great," he taunted. "And seeing how Mrs. Conklin here already paid me with a great time, you now have enough for both you and your son. Go get my money," he commanded. As he made his way towards the basement staircase, he stepped next to Mankey, relieved to see his chest rising and falling. Seth slowly made his way down the creaking stairs. Hidden behind a stack of supplies, he uncovered a small box and retrieved two wads of cash.

Clutching the money tightly, he ascended the stairs, his hand absentmindedly massaging his throbbing neck. As he handed the money to Butch, a sense of unease gnawed at Seth's gut. Butch's smile, marred by missing teeth and yellowed remnants, somehow terrified him. "Why, thank you, Mr. Conklin," Butch sneered, inspecting the cash. "You owe us $20,000, $10,000 each for you and your son. It better all be here," he warned, his eyes fixed on Seth.

Seth nodded, his voice laced with a hint of nervousness. "It is, now will you please leave."

"Bold, but I am a man who likes to play by the rules," he replied, his gaze momentarily shifting to Sarah's lifeless form. "Well, mostly by the rules," he added, a chilling implication lingering in the air. Darren recalled Seismitoad to his Pokéball, and together, the two Team Rocket members turned and left the diner, their presence leaving an unsettling void behind them.

X

​

As Seth sits in the suffocating silence, his body feels heavy and unresponsive. He musters every ounce of strength to crawl towards his wife, his movements slow and labored. With trembling hands, he reaches out and gently grasps her cold, lifeless hand. The weight of the moment presses down on his chest, making it difficult to breathe. Tears well up in his eyes as he whispers words of apology, his voice barely audible in the stagnant air. The stillness of the room envelops them. His eyes then meet Mankey, still unconscious on the floor just below the staircase. A giant dent busted into the wall over his body. He gently places his wife's lifeless body on the floor. As he approaches him, Seth's eyes focus on the injured eye that was caked in blood. "Mankey," he whispers, his voice laced with guilt. He notices the labored breathing."Let me get something to help clean you."

Swiftly he moves to the kitchen. He grabs a towel and rushes to the sink, drenching it with water. As he returned to Mankey's side, he began to clean the wound "You did good there. Thank you for trying to protect me. Well, other than a serious concussion, I think you'll be okay." he murmurs, Mankey then begins to labor for breath again. "I really hope you don't have a broken rib." Knowing that rest is crucial for Mankey's recovery, Seth softly recalls his loyal companion back into the Pokéball, offering him a chance to heal and find solace in the familiar confines of the device. "Thank You."

After tending to Mankey's wound and returning him to the Pokéball, Seth gathers his strength and musters the courage to climb the stairs to their shared bedroom. Each step feels heavier than the last. When Seth reached the top of the staircase, he hesitated, his hand resting on the banister, seeking support in this moment of overwhelming grief. His heart pounds in his chest, echoing the mix of emotions swirling within him—sorrow, anger, and a profound sense of loss. With faltering steps, Seth moves toward the closed bedroom door, his trembling hand grasping the doorknob. As he slowly pushes it open, the room reveals itself in muted darkness, illuminated only by the faint glow of the moon filtering through the curtains. The sight of their shared space, once filled with warmth and love, now feels like a hollow shell, an empty reminder of the happiness they once knew.

Seth's gaze falls upon the Pokéball on his wife’s nightstand. With a trembling hand, he reaches out and grasps it firmly, his thumb pressing against the button. In an instant, a radiant scarlet light emanates from the Pokéball, casting a warm glow that pierces through the grim atmosphere of the room. The light subsides, a majestic Vulpix materializes before Seth, its golden fur shimmering with an ethereal glow. The Pokémon sniffs the air, sensing the tension and sorrow that hangs heavy in the room. With an instinctual understanding, Vulpix darts off, swiftly descending the stairs, its paws gliding silently across the floor. She approaches Sarah's lifeless body, nudging her head gently and leaving small stains of blood on its pristine golden fur. Seth's voice trembles with guilt and remorse as he speaks to the Pokémon, his words filled with regret. "I am sorry. I… I… I messed up." Tears stream down his face as he slowly descends the stairs, making his way to the dining area of the diner.

Vulpix's gaze is fixed on Seth, its eyes filled with anger.

"I thought I had more time. I wanted more time, and she paid the price."

Vulpix growls soft but continuously, its expression reflecting its own discontent.

"I need you. I… I need… I need your help to protect Erin." his voice trembling in uncertainty.

Vulpix nods in response, though its glare remains fixed on Seth.

Seth takes a deep breath, wiping away his tears, and speaks with a mix of determination and resignation. "Okay, I'm going to bury her. For now, return to your Pokéball." He presses the button on the Pokéball, releasing a beam of light that envelops Vulpix. But to his surprise, Vulpix remains, the light illuminating the room without the expected disappearance of the Pokémon. Seth's voice carries a hint of confusion and realization. "Vulpix, come on. Return to your ball." Yet again, she resists the call of the Pokéball, its presence unwavering. With a heavy sigh, he accepts the unspoken bond between them. "Okay, I get it. We're in this together. Help me give her a proper burial.”

As Seth completes the somber task of patting down the freshly turned earth, he stands up and retrieves a knife from his pocket. With a steady hand, he carefully carves the words "Sarah Conklin, Loving wife & incredible mother" into the trunk of the tree that stands above her grave. The early rays of the rising sun illuminate the scene, casting a warm glow over the solemn moment. The light washes over him and Vulpix, creating a poignant juxtaposition of hope and sorrow. His voice is resolute as he speaks aloud to himself. "I have to get Erin out of this country."

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 2​

Don’t Wade in the Water​

Don't wade in the water

It's not the peace you're looking for

Don't wade in the water

The devil's gonna take your son

Don't wade in the water

The devil's gonna crush your love



— The Amity Affliction ​

I

​

Harold's eyes flutter open, greeted by the warmth of the morning sun casting a soft glow on the room. He stirs on the couch, a sense of tranquility lingering in the air. As he starts to rise, he notices Seth standing nearby, his face burdened with a heavy weight. A surge of concern washes over Harold, sensing that something is terribly wrong. Without a word spoken, the devastating truth about Sarah's absence becomes painfully clear. Harold's heart sinks, and with a flicker of hope, he musters the strength to ask the question that he already knows, "Sarah?" Seth's solemn shake of the head confirms his worst fears, rendering words unnecessary.

Together, their steps laden with grief, tread silently towards the next room. "Are you okay?" Harold asks with genuine concern.

Seth's response is blunt "No."

"What happened?"

"I fucked up."

"This isn't your fault, Seth."

"Yes, it is! I thought I had more time. I thought... I messed up, Harold."

"Just tell me what happened."

Our taxes were due, or so I thought, in a few days. We only had $25,000. I lied to her, told her we had the money, and secretly I would have left tomorrow... or today now, I guess." tears began to form at the corner of Seth's eyes.

“Why did you say that to her?" Harold asked.

"She's always been... you know, in charge. I was afraid she would try to talk me out of it, go herself. But deep down, I just wanted my last day to be happy and normal."

"So, what happened to Sarah?" Harold questions Seth, his concern evident in his voice. Seth remains silent, his trembling mouth fighting to form a response.

Finally he explains, “By the time I walked in Sarah was already gone. The Team Rocket members busted through the door, I guess waiting for me. Mankey tried to defend me but was injured. I cleaned him up but do you care about bandaging him and making sure he is alright?’

“Sure thing.” Harold taking the Pokéball from Seth.

Unexpectedly, Vulpix jumps into Harold's lap, breaking the tense atmosphere. Harold greets the Pokémon warmly, petting its golden fur.

“She won't go into her Pokéball. I think she blames herself for not being there." Seth for a moment opens his mouth and closes it again seemingly trying to form the words. "Harold, can you watch over Erin for a little longer? I need some sleep, and I'm too scared to face him right now."

"Of course."

“Thank you… for everything.”

As Harold watches him rise from his seat, he can't help but notice the vacant, emotionless expression on Seth's face. It's as if all life has been drained from him, leaving behind nothing. Vulpix faithfully trails behind Seth as he makes his way towards the guest room, and Harold observes as Seth quietly closes the door, shutting himself off from the world.

II

​

As Seth awakens in the unfamiliar bed, a sense of disorientation and apprehension washes over him. He feels paralyzed, uncertain of how to face the inevitable moment when he must confront Erin and shatter his world. However, Vulpix persistently nudges his head, a silent urging to gather the strength to face the truth. With a trembling hand, Seth grasps the doorknob, his hesitation momentarily freezing him in place. Suddenly, the sound of laughter fills the air, drawing his attention to the living room. As he opens the door, the warm morning sun bathes the room in its gentle glow, revealing Mankey with a bandage over his left eye playfully frolicking with Erin. The sight of Erin's radiant smile and infectious laughter fills the space with a joy. "Vulpix!" Erin exclaims, rushing over to embrace the his Pokémon.

Seth approaches his son, gently placing a hand on his head. Looking down at his kid, Seth asks, "Did you listen to Mr. Snyder?"

"Yupp!," he replies excitedly. "Where is Mom?" Erin's innocent gaze prompts Seth to evade the painful conversation.

"I'll explain when we leave. Why don't you go play with Vulpix and Mankey out back?" Erin agrees, and the trio dashes through the kitchen and out the back door. Left alone with Harold, Seth asked, "Harold, how long was I out?"

"An entire day. I thought you needed the rest," Harold responds.

“How is Erin holding up?"

"He seems fine, honestly. He hasn't dwelled on your absence much,” Harold explained.

Seth nods, relieved by the distraction. "And Mankey?"

"I've been tending to his wound. It's healing, but he'll have a gnarly scar. He's been playing hard with Erin,"

"That's a relief. I was really concerned about him."

Harold's expression becomes serious. "Alright, Seth, I need to know what your plan is."

Seth, deep in thought, brings his hand to his mouth and scratches his stubble on his face. After a moment, he responds, "Staying in Kanto is not a long-term solution. I can't risk what happened to Sarah happening to Erin. We need to leave."

Harold nods in understanding. "Cinnabar Island is the only place in Kanto that has successfully held off Team Rocket. However, Blaine is strict about letting anyone in, except for those challenging the league. Even then, you would need six badges to gain entry, and immediately after the battle, you'd be deported."

Seth sighs, realizing the challenges ahead. "Crossing the Mt. Silver Mountain range with Erin is out of the question."

Harold agrees, "I doubt that would be a safe option."

He ponders Harold's words and then suggests, "What about trying to get a boat and heading to Hoenn or Unova?"

Harold responds with a somber tone, "You could try, but after the war, Johto completely locked down our eastern and southern coast. They won't allow anyone in or out. Benjamin was a fisherman from Fuchsia City, he told me horrifying stories of people attempting to flee by sea."

Seth's face falls as he contemplates their limited options. "So, the league challenge..."

Harold nods sadly. "That's why they implemented that rule, to give us hope in an almost impossible task. I personally think Johto is just waiting for us to die out so they can invade without any complications."

"How many have passed it now?" Seth asks.

“The League Challenge?”

“Yeah.”

"In the last fifteen years, I believe only twelve have succeeded. Since Team Rocket, only three of those twelve have managed to overcome the challenges."

Seth's determination grows as he realizes the risks. "But if I win, I can take myself and one other person to Johto with full citizenship."

Harold acknowledges the gravity of the decision. "Yes, but that's a monumental 'if.'"

"It's the safest bet for Erin. If we stay here, I doubt he'll live to see his teenage years." Seth takes a deep breath and responds,

"So, what badge do I start with first?"

Seth ponders for a moment and replies, "The closest badges to us are Brock in Pewter City, Misty in Cerulean, and Sabrina in Saffron City. Out of the three, my best bet would be Brock."

"Why not Misty? She's so close."

"Vulpix won't be much help in either fight, but Mankey is my strongest Pokémon. Against Misty, I doubt it can take on her infamous Starmie."

Harold raises an eyebrow, "I've heard that gym leaders are supposed to scale their teams based on the number of badges the trainers have."

Seth smirks cynically, "Are you really surprised? Team Rocket lets gym leaders do whatever the fuck they want. Brock, from what I've heard, is a decent person, but Misty is as cruel as them."

"And Sabrina?"

Seth shakes his head, "I don't stand a chance against her at the moment. So, yeah, that's what I'll do. Erin and I will head out, visit Sarah's grave, travel over the Mt. Moon hills toward Pewter City, and then take on Brock."

Harold's voice is filled with sincerity, "I wish you luck, Seth. You're a good man, and Erin deserves a safe life."

"I have to repay someday for not protecting Sarah, and I will start by saving Erin."

III

​

The majestic tree, with its sprawling branches and lush foliage, stood tall and proud, creating a serene atmosphere that served as a tribute to Sarah's life. Positioned atop the hill behind their home, it offered a breathtaking view of Cerulean City nestled below. The city's vibrant colors contrasted with the tranquility of the tree, forming a reminder of the beauty that Sarah brought into Seth's life. Vulpix curled up and rested on top of the grave. Seth and Erin sat side by side, their gaze fixed upon the words carved into the tree trunk. Erin looked up at Seth, his young eyes filled with curiosity and a hint of sadness. Seth took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before gently beginning the conversation. "The words carved into the tree... it's about your mom, Erin," Seth started, his voice filled with sorrow.

Erin's expression reflects a mixture of confusion and concern. "What happened to Mom? Where is she?" he asked, his voice tinged with worry.

Seth took Erin's hand in his, providing a comforting squeeze. "Something happened, something none of us could control." His voice chokes here wanting so badly to believe that lie. "Your mom... she's not with us anymore," he explained, his voice trembling slightly.

Erin's eyes widened, his innocence unable to fully grasp the weight of the words. "But... where did she go?" he asked, his voice trembling.

Seth took a moment, searching for the right words to convey the difficult truth. "Erin, Mom passed away. It means that she's not here with us anymore." he gently replied, trying to simplify the concept for his young son.

Tears welled up in Erin's eyes as he processed the information. "But why, Daddy? Why did she have to go?" he choked out.

Seth pulled Erin closer, holding him tight. "Sometimes, things happen in life that we can't explain. It's not fair, and it's incredibly painful," he said, his voice filled with empathy. "But Mom would want you to remember how much she loved you."

Erin buried his face in Seth's shoulder, seeking comfort in their embrace. "I want Mommy, Dad," he whispered through tearful sobs.

Seth held his son even tighter, his own tears mingling with Erin's. "I miss her too, buddy," he murmured softly and began to cry with him. In that moment, father and son found solace in their shared grief. "Do you want to go on an adventure with me? We will get to camp and travel around."

Erin turned to his father with a serious expression he rarely saw on his face. "Are we gonna see mom?",

"No buddy, mom will be right here under her tree."

"Oh." His face looked down to the ground, tears forming again. The bright light of the sun radiating off his curly brown hair and accentuating his light brown skin.

"Come on, let's go pack for an adventure. Go pick out your favorite toy to bring with you."

IV

​

With the final nail securing the board covering the entrance hole of their diner, Seth gazes at his son and asks, "Are you ready?"

Erin, clutching his Flapple plush toy, exclaims, "Yupp!" as he dashes up the sidewalk towards Route 4, Vulpix keeps a watchful eye.

Seth carries their backpack filled with essential supplies for their journey, he can't shake off the worry of only having eight Pokéballs, uncertain of how he'll afford more. Despite knowing that catching a Pokémon relies on their willingness, he still fears facing Gym Leaders for the Pokémon League Challenge without a full team of six, the maximum allowed under Team Rocket's regulations. With determination in his eyes, Seth reaffirms his resolve, "I just have to keep moving forward and make every move count. We'll train for the battles ahead and I'll find ways to earn money, whether it's through odd jobs or utilizing our hunting and camping skills during our journey. The most important thing is to keep moving, no matter the cost. Erin deserves to be free from this place."

Seth trails behind his son and Vulpix, a glimmer of determination lighting up his desolate heart. He stops and releases Mankey from its pokéball, gazing into its eyes. "Mankey, I need your help to save Erin," he implores, receiving a solemn nod in response. "From now on, we train relentlessly. Our first challenge is with Gym Leader Brock, who specializes in rock type Pokémon. Speed will be our greatest asset. Now, pick up Erin on your back and sprint until I'm a mere speck in the distance. Then, return as fast as you can. Go!" Mankey bolts towards Erin with incredible speed, catching him off guard and causing him to be flung onto its back, his feet skimming the ground. The whirlwind of dirt trails behind them as laughter fills the air. However, their momentum is abruptly halted as Mankey trips and falls flat on its face, sending both Seth and Erin spiraling to the ground. Seth lets out a tired sigh, rubbing his eyes in exasperation. "We're so fucked…" he remarks.

Vulpix drops back, its serious expression unwavering as it gazes at its trainer. Seth meets its serious expression with a determined look of his own. "You're not exempt from training either. Race Mankey and Erin back here. Go!", Vulpix prepares to outpace both Mankey and Erin. In a flash of golden fur, Vulpix darts through the streets, its agile form moving swiftly amidst the decaying architecture.

V

​

The group reached the foothills of Mt. Moon, both Mankey and Vulpix collapsed from exhaustion. "Alright, I guess we can set up camp here for the night. I'll set up the tent with Erin. Mankey, go gather some firewood. Vulpix, accompany him and get the fire going," Seth instructed. The two Pokémon disappeared into the woods. Seth turned to his son and said, "Come on, buddy, help me set up the tent. Go put the poles together."

"Okay, Dad." Erin struggled to snap the poles in place, and Seth couldn't help but laugh at his son's determined efforts.

"Here, let me help." In just about five minutes, the tent was up, and Erin was running excitedly inside it. "Don't you ever get tired?"

"Nope!"

"I love you, buddy."

"I love you too, Dad." His infectious smile lit up his father's heart.

Vulpix and Mankey returned, carrying firewood which Vulpix promptly set ablaze with ember. The fire crackled and danced, its warm glow casting flickering shadows upon their surroundings. The scent of roasted food, that Seth was able to take from his diner, filled the air. Seth's gaze fell upon Mankey, and his heart ached at the sight of the thick scar that ran across his left eye.

As night slowly descended, the darkness was pushed back by the comforting glow of the campfire. Its radiant light cast a hopeful ambiance, casting flickering shadows upon their faces. Seth found solace in the warmth of the fire, feeling a sense of contentment amidst the pain and turmoil that had plagued their lives.

"Alright, everyone, bed," Seth announced, reaching for Mankey's Pokéball. As the familiar red light enveloped the campsite, Mankey disappeared into the ball. Seth then turned his attention to Vulpix, hoping for a similar response. However, the fiery Pokémon stood resolute, refusing to return to its Pokéball. Seth sighed, acknowledging Vulpix's determination. "Well, it seems you've made up your mind. You're done with this thing, aren't you?" Vulpix met Seth's gaze with a serious expression before calmly walking into the tent. "Erin, it's time for bed."

"Nope!"

Seth chuckled and replied, "Well, too bad. Let's go, buddy." They entered the tent together, the night enveloping them.

VI

​

As Seth and Erin resumed their journey, the morning sun cast its warm rays over the rugged foothills of Mt. Moon. The rocky terrain intertwined with patches of lush green grass, creating a unique landscape. Massive boulders jutted out from the earth, their rough surfaces weathered by the elements. Moss and small wildflowers adorned the crevices, adding splashes of color to the otherwise rugged landscape.

"Mankey, it's time to hone your Brick Break move," Seth declared, adjusting his backpack and carrying Erin on his shoulders, his flapple toy soaring beside them. "Your fighting type moves can be great against rock type Pokémon, but we need to ensure they're strong enough to break through their defenses. Through these rocky surroundings, we'll use the boulders along our path as practice targets. Look for weaknesses, cracks in the rock—those are the points you need to strike." Mankey's eyes focused intently on its trainer. Seth pointed to a large boulder standing before them, slightly bigger than himself, with a distinct divot running from its tip to about two-thirds down its length, resembling a small trench. "Mankey, aim for that precise point and give it everything you've got." Mankey swiftly climbed up the tall tree overlooking the boulder, positioning itself for a powerful strike. With a burst of energy, it leaped off the tree, hurtling down towards the rock and delivering a mighty blow. The force of the impact reverberated through the woods as the trench began to crack. "Good work, We're pressing forward. Catch up once it's split in half. Don't fall behind."

Through the hilly path, their attention turned to honing Vulpix's flamethrower attack. A fallen tree caught their eye, providing the perfect opportunity for practice. "Alright, Vulpix, let's work on your flamethrower. Incinerate that fallen tree into ash, but remember to control the flames and ensure nothing beyond the log is burned." Vulpix positioned herself in front of the fallen tree, her eyes focused and determination evident. Flames erupted from her mouth with a burst of intense heat, engulfing the log in a blazing inferno. The intensity of the flames surprised Erin, causing him to shield his eyes with his hand. Seth encouraged Vulpix to continue, "Reduce it to nothing but ash. When you're done there, do four more than catch up."

Seth and Erin traversed the hilly path, the echoes of splitting rocks and crackling wood filled the air. Erin's curiosity seemed boundless, however. Every little detail caught his attention and he eagerly shared his discoveries with his father. "Dad, what's that?" he exclaimed, pointing at the sewaddles climbing the tree to their left. His eyes widened as he watched the Sewaddle maneuver through the branches. "Wow, they're so cool! Look at them go!" Seth nodded, happy to see his son's fascination.

Another sight captured Erin's attention. "Dad, look at them!" he exclaimed, pointing towards a group of Volbeat and Illumise gracefully floating through the air ahead of them. Erin watched in awe as the Volbeat and Illumise danced through the air, their luminous trails creating a magical atmosphere.

After a little while, Mankey and Vulpix finally caught up to Seth and Erin. Vulpix trotted along, seemingly unaffected by the training session, while Mankey appeared exhausted, clutching its hands as if they were on the verge of falling off. "Took you all long enou…'' the four stopped abruptly, and eyes fixed to a single spot. In an open field to their left, a colossal Torterra lay lifeless on its stomach. The sight was disturbing, but what drew their attention even more was the absence of its top shell. The once majestic Pokémon now exposed its raw, reddish pink flesh, with streams of blood cascading down its side.

Seth gently lifted Erin from his shoulders and placed him safely on the ground beside him. "Erin, stay right here. Mankey, keep a close eye on him," Seth instructed, his voice filled with a mix of concern and caution. Vulpix, by his side, followed his lead as they approached the fallen Torterra. With a careful step, Seth reached out and laid his hand on top of Torterra's head, his touch gentle yet filled with curiosity. He examined the massive Pokémon, the sight of its exposed flesh and the streams of blood leaving him deeply unsettled. "What could have caused this?" Seth wondered aloud.

A voice yelled "Rock Throw" from the other side of the clearing, a sense of danger filled the air. Vulpix, ever vigilant, swiftly tackled Seth, pushing them both to the side just in time to avoid a colossal rock crashing down where they had stood moments ago.

Reacting quickly, Seth called out to Vulpix, "Use Flamethrower!" A fierce jet of flames erupted from Vulpix's mouth, soaring towards the direction from which the rock had been thrown, attempting to fend off their unseen assailant. But before the flames could reach their target, a sturdy and imposing Pokémon emerged from the shadows. It was Lairon, a steel and rock-type Pokémon. Lairon charged towards Seth, its metallic body gleaming in the sunlight. Its rugged appearance showcased a tough exterior, ready to deliver a powerful blow. "Vulpix, use Extrasensory!" Seth commanded, hoping to gain the upper hand in this unexpected confrontation. Vulpix locked eyes with Lairon, its psychic powers taking effect. Lairon's movements faltered, its eyes flickering around its surroundings as if it was experiencing intense discomfort. "It is our chance. It should really feel this now. Finish it with Flamethrower!" Seth called out confidently, but just as Vulpix was about to unleash its flames, a woman, pale and slim, came running towards them, pleading for them to wait. "Vulpix, hold."

The sudden arrival of the woman halted Seth's command, freezing the tension in the air. His eyes met hers, filled with curiosity and caution as he tried to assess the situation. "I'm sorry, I saw you and then Torterra, and I assumed you were a poacher. It wasn't until I saw the kid over there that I realized my mistake," she explained..

Seth's gaze shifted to Erin, with Mankey standing tall and ready, projecting an aura of fierceness. "Stay right there, Erin," Seth instructed firmly, ensuring his son's safety.

"My name is Emily," she introduced herself, extending her hand in a gesture of goodwill. However, Seth remained cautious, rejecting the gesture.

"Would you mind recalling your Lairon?"

"Oh, of course," Emily replied, obliging by returning it.

"My name is Seth. We just found it like this. You mentioned you thought we were poachers?"

"Yes, this is the second instance where I've come across a Torterra like this. Their shells are extremely valuable in certain circles, leading to fuckers doing this shit. I assure you, I mean no harm," Emily explained, her words carrying a genuine sense of concern.

Seth observed Emily closely, weighing her words against the evidence before him. Gradually, his guarded stance softened, though a trace of skepticism remained. "Alright, but Lairon stays in his ball for now. Is there any other Pokémoni should be worried about?," Seth finally responded, his voice less tense.

"I have an Arctibax as well. And for fuck sake, yes, it will stay in its ball. We good?"

"Yeah. Erin, come here," Seth called out, a hint of relief in his voice. Erin eagerly ran over to his dad, waving his arms and shouting with excitement. Mankey stayed close, maintaining a vigilant gaze on Emily.

"Hi! Hi! Hi! What's your name?" Erin enthusiastically asked, his curiosity shining through.

"Emily. And what's your name, sweetheart?" Emily responded warmly, her voice gentle and friendly.

"I'm Erin, and this Mankey and that is Vulpix and that's my dad!"

"We need to set up camp," Seth explained. "Mankey, can you go find some food?" Just then, a Grotle emerged from the brush behind the corpse of Torterra, slowly making its way towards its fallen mother. It began to lick her head, before collapsing beside her.

"Oh, fuck," Emily muttered quietly, her eyes filled with sorrow.

"Daddy, is that his mommy?" Erin asked, his voice filled with innocence and concern.

"I think so, buddy," Seth replied, his voice gentle and understanding. Erin took a few steps forward towards the grieving Grotle, and Seth instinctively reached out to grab him, hesitating momentarily before retracting his hand. Erin approached the Grotle and tenderly placed his arm around its head, tears streaming down his face. Both Seth and Emily watched in awe as the young boy and the Grotle shared a silent understanding, collapsing together in a moment of shared grief.

Seth knelt down beside his son, handing him an empty Pokéball. "I think he needs you, buddy," he whispered softly.

Erin looked at the Grotle, a smile forming on his face. "Do you want to come with us?" he asked. The Grotle shook its head and affectionately licked Erin, eliciting laughter from the young boy. "Alrighty," Erin said with determination. He threw the Pokéball at the Grotle, and a red light enveloped the Pokémon. As the ball fell to the ground, it shook vigorously. It finally settled, and Erin's face lit up with excitement. "Daddy, I caught a Pokémon!"

Seth gently ruffled Erin's hair, a proud smile on his face. "That's amazing."

VII

​

The fire cast a warmth over the campsite. The enticing aroma of roasted Feebas wafted through the air as the group settled down to eat. Emily turned to Seth and asked, "Where are you guys headed?"

Seth took a moment to gather his thoughts before answering, his gaze fixed on the fire. "I'm trying to find a safe haven for Erin, somewhere he can grow up without fear. To do that I am going to take on the challenge of the Pokémon League by defeating all eight gym leaders."

Emily burst into laughter, but as she noticed the seriousness in Seth's expression, her laughter faded. "Wait, are you serious?"

"Dad, can I play with Grotle?" Erin chimed in, his eyes shining with excitement.

"Of course, he's your Pokémon." Seth replied. Erin climbed onto Grotle's back, and the two of them began cycling around the camp, his laughter filling the night sky. Seth turned back to Emily and continued their conversation. "Getting Erin to safety is the only thing that matters. He deserves to live his life. Unless you have another idea, I'm afraid taking on the gym leaders is our best shot."

Emily's tone softened, "No, I understand. If there were an easier way, we wouldn't be here. So, you're headed to Pewter City?" Seth hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. "Relax, I am not here to hurt you guys. You're moving west on route 4 there is only one badge you can get heading this direction."

"What brings you to Pewter City?"

Emily's response was blunt and chilling. "I'm headed there to strangle a man with his own intestines." Seth's eyes widened, taken aback by the raw intensity of her words. He stared at her, unsure of how to respond. "He destroyed me." Emily continued, her voice filled with quiet resolve. "Now, I will destroy his fucking world."

"Can I ask what happened?"

Emily's voice trembled with a mix of anger and pain as she shared her story. "When I was younger, my dad, like so many others, either died in the war or vanished without a trace. Most likely at the Mt. Silver Massacre. Anyway, I never saw him again. It was just me, my mother, and my sister trying to make ends meet. Things were manageable for about five years, but once Team Rocket seized power, my mother fell into financial ruin. One day, when I was 16, I walked out of my room to find a Team Rocket guy handing my mom money. Both my sister and I were forced to go with him. For the next two years, we were abused every single day. Then, he grew tired of my sister."

"Shit, I'm so sorry, Emily."

"Shortly after losing my sister, one of the Team Rocket trainer's Aron, managed to sneak into my cell. He created a hole in the wall and escaped with me. Ever since then, I have been fighting Team Rocket every opportunity I could for the past six years.

"Erin's mom, my wife, was just killed three days ago." The campfire provided a backdrop of warmth and comfort as Seth and Emily sat together, silently absorbing the weight of their shared pain. Yet, their somber moment was abruptly interrupted by Erin's exuberant voice piercing through the night. Both Seth and Emily exchanged amused glances. With a shared smirk, they rose to their feet, "Alright, dorkface, it's bedtime," Seth declared, trying to sound stern but failing to hide the amusement in his voice.

"No, no, no!" Erin protested, his voice filled with playful defiance. "I'm still playing!"

Emily chimed in, joining Seth's side. "Sorry, kiddo, but it's time for bed." Erin's disappointment was evident as he reluctantly accepted his fate.

In the quietude of the night, the fire slowly dimmed, casting flickering shadows across the campsite. The air held a sense of tranquility, but Seth, ever cautious, remained on guard. His eyes darted around, scanning the surroundings, his instincts never allowing him to fully let go. Despite the weariness that enveloped him, Seth kept one eye open.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 3​

Sleepless​

I can't tell if I'll make it on my own

Maybe one day I can learn to see this through

And I can't tell if I'll make it on my own

Tell me, do you know the feeling?

Maybe one day I can learn to see this through

And I just gotta hear you say

Tell me you need me as much as I need you

'Cause really I'm just sleepless without you ​

- Thousand Below

​

I

​

Sarah's horrifying face loomed over Seth. Her once radiant afro now matted with blood, her ebony skin drained of life, and her dead eyes locked onto his! "YOU CAN'T SAVE HIM!" She screamed. Seth jolted upright Erin and Vulpix next to him asleep.

II

​

"Vulpix, use Fire Spin!" Seth commanded. Vulpix swiftly darted around Staravia, emitting a scorching stream of fire that coiled and twirled, forming a blazing pillar that towered over the giant bird. It took a moment to regain its composure before soaring back into the sky. "Vulpix, get ready," Seth called out. "Remember, we're not trying to seriously harm it. If I can catch it and befriend it, that would be far better." It hovered above Vulpix, expanding its wingspan. Suddenly, a fierce gust of wind surged from Staravia's wings, propelling Vulpix into the air. She spiraled then crashed down on the ground.

"Go, Vulpix!" Erin's enthusiastic voice echoed as he cheered on from a nearby rock, seated next to Emily.

"Vulpix, let's go for a Quick Attack!" Vulpix vanished from sight, utilizing its speed to close the gap between itself and Staravia in an instant. She tackled Staravia to the ground. Seizing the opportunity, Seth continued, "On the counterattack, unleash Hypnosis!" Vulpix nodded in understanding. As Staravia regained its footing and took to the sky once more, it swiftly darted towards Vulpix with renewed determination. Undeterred, Vulpix stood firm, its six tails waving back and forth in a mesmerizing rhythm. As Staravia approached, its movements began to slow down, influenced by the hypnotic sway of Vulpix's tails. It struggled, its movements becoming sluggish with each passing moment. Finally, unable to resist any longer, it dropped to the ground beside Vulpix, succumbing to the effects of the Hypnosis.

Seth carefully placed a Yache Berry in front of the awakening Staravia, its cries gradually subsiding. The Pokémon fixed its gaze on Seth, a mixture of confusion and distress evident in its eyes. "Why were you out here alone?" Seth asked.

"I've never seen a Staravia separated from its flock before," Emily remarked. "Perhaps it got kicked out or got lost."

As Staravia stood up and began eating the Yache Berry, it seemed to regain some composure. Seth approached it cautiously and asked, "Do you want to come with us?" It locked eyes with Seth, its expression filled with determination and a sense of pride. Finally, it nodded its head, accepting Seth's offer. With a Pokéball in hand, Seth held it out towards Staravia, and a radiant red light enveloped the bird Pokémon. The Pokéball shook three times before falling still in Seth's hand, indicating a successful capture.

Erin glanced at his father. "Why didn't you just catch it while it was still asleep, dad?"

"If a Pokémon doesn't want to be caught, it's either going to be uncooperative or, more likely, run off as soon as it's released." Erin's began clapping, unable to contain his joy at the new addition to their team. "Thanks for the applause, Erin. Do you want to play with Staravia?" Seth asked, a warm smile on his face.

"Um, yes!" Erin exclaimed excitedly. As Staravia was released from its Pokéball, Erin immediately lunged towards it, attempting to tackle the flying Pokémon. But Staravia swiftly evaded, soaring upwards to avoid the playful collision. Erin's curly black hair blowing in the gust created by Staravia. Erin ended up sprawling on the grass, while Staravia perched on his back, emitting a playful squawk.

"I'm glad I was finally able to catch another Pokémon, especially before facing Brock," Seth remarked, while rubbing short beard.

She chimed in, offering her perspective. "Yeah, but I wouldn't recommend using Staravia in a Rock-type gym battle."

Seth nodded in agreement. "True, I'm still kicking myself for not catching that Golduck. I was so certain it would want to join our team. That's why I had to be cautious with Staravia."

Emily shifted the focus to their journey ahead. "Are you ready to start walking and make up some mileage?"

"Yeah, let's hit the road. Erin, Staravia, come on!" Seth called.

III

​

As the days of walking alongside Seth and Erin, Emily found herself gradually opening up to the idea of trusting Seth. At first, she had been skeptical, wary of letting someone new into her life. I mean when the fuck did she ever let that happen. But as she observed Seth's interactions with Erin, she couldn't help but notice the genuine love and care he bestowed upon his son. It was a stark contrast to the cold indifference she had experienced from her own mother's last actions that plagued her whole life.

Emily watched Seth tirelessly train his Pokémon—Vulpix, Mankey, Grotle, and Staravia—day after day. His dedication and commitment to their growth and well-being were evident. He pushed them to their limits, challenging them to become stronger and more skilled. It impressed her how Seth balanced discipline and encouragement, always striving to improve.

However, amidst their journey, Emily occasionally caught glimpses of Seth's vulnerability. In the quiet of the night, she would hear him across the camp stir in his sleep, his voice calling out for someone named Sarah, probably the wife he lost, pleading for her to leave him alone. It was a pain that seemed to consume him in his dreams. Emily couldn't help but feel sympathy for Seth, recognizing the depth of his struggle. She realized that his journey with Erin went beyond just physical safety—it was a quest for healing and redemption. Through witnessing his vulnerability, she saw a side of Seth that touched her heart, making her understand his love for Erin. The trek through Mt. Moon's foothills provided the needed break from the loneliness and hate that she has carried for so long. Part of her was dreading that end to come.

IV​

The descent along the sloping path leading to Pewter City brought a welcome respite for Seth. Carrying Erin on his shoulders, the sluggish pace of Grotle's movements while carrying Erin, and the constant distractions of his son, Seth found solace in the gradual descent of the landscape. As they made their way, Erin's incessant stream of questions continued unabated. "Dad, what are we doing now?" Erin's voice rang out..

Seth let out an exasperated sigh, mentally counting the number of times he had answered this very question in the past few hours. "Erin, we're still walking in the woods on Route 3, just like we were 30 minutes ago, and even 24 hours ago." Emily, who had been trailing behind, couldn't help but chuckle at the irritation radiating off him.

The trees gradually gave way to open fields, and the narrow path they were following led them to a small town called Stable City. Underneath the town sign, a chilling sight greeted them: a man and a woman, presumably spouses, swinging gently in the breeze. Sarah's naked body swinging next to them. Blood poured down where her feet used to be. The sign attached to them read, "Debtors." Erin, feeling perplexed, asked his father, "Daddy, why are they up there?" Seth's eyes fixed on Sarah. His pale white skin seemed to somehow grow even paler. Erin grasped his hand and asked again. "Daddy, who are they?" Seth continued to stare at Sarah.

Emily, picking up Erin, "It's okay Erin, come here." She looked at Seth. Noticing that he was looking at an empty part of the sign where the two bodies were not hung up. "Seth, what are you staring at?" Still nothing from him. As she shook his shoulder she yelled at him, "Seth!"

He took a moment to collect his thoughts before replying, "Let's keep moving." Emily stood there confused for a few moments then put Erin down so he could scurry back on Grotle. The group proceeded under the swinging figures and entered the town. As Seth looked back he noticed Sarah's head completely turned backwards, her mouth unhinged, staring at him. The town exuded an atmosphere of desolation, matching the somberness of its entrance. The streets were eerily quiet, with most of the buildings abandoned and showing signs of neglect. As Seth surveyed the surroundings, his attention was caught by a light pole adorned with a wanted poster. The poster featured a bald man with a crooked nose, a scar tracing down his right cheek, and a sturdy build. Above the man's image, a staggering bounty of seven thousand was offered, accompanied by the words "Dead or Alive, The Pewter City Brute." Below the bounty, a detailed description outlined. Approach with extreme caution. The Pewter City Brute is considered highly dangerous and uses a scyther. Report any sightings or information to the local authorities immediately. Payment generously provided by the concerned citizens of Pewter City.

"Seven thousand fucking dollars!" Emily exclaimed, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Seth, looks like we're becoming bounty hunters."

Seth shook his head, "Emily, you do you. But it's not worth the risk."

A thoughtful expression crossed Emily's face as she weighed the possibilities. Her smile grew wider, complimenting the freckles that littered her face. "Well, damn. Looks like I'll be claiming that bounty all for myself."

"We've been on the road for nearly a week now," Seth said. "How about we find a good meal and split a room for the night?"

"That sounds amazing." She said with enthusiasm.

V​

The room offered a slight improvement from the gloom of the town, providing a much-needed break from the hard ground and cramped tent. The warmth of the water felt soothing as Seth and Erin cleaned themselves. However, the tranquility was shattered when Erin's innocent face turned troubled, his eyes filled with concern. "Daddy, I don't want to die," Erin confessed, his voice trembling with fear.

Seth's heart ached at his son's words. He knelt down, looking directly into Erin's eyes. "Erin, why would you say something like that? I would never let anything happen to you. I promise."

Erin's tears began to flow, his voice choked with sadness. "But Mommy died, and I miss her. I'm afraid that I will go to sleep and never wake up, just like Mommy."

Seth's frustration mixed with his own deep sorrow. His tone grew harsher, not out of anger towards Erin, but out of his own insecurity to protect his son. "Erin, I promise you, nothing will happen to us. I won't let anything harm you."

"B.. but.. but Mommy isn't here I miss her. I don't want to die. I don't want to be under a tree."

"Nothing is going to fucking happen to you!" Seth snapped. Erin's sobs filled the room, their echoes amplifying the heavy atmosphere. Seth's words had only added to the tension, and he immediately regretted his outburst. "I'm sorry, Erin. I didn't mean to snap. Come here." He reached out, taking Erin's trembling hand and pulling him into a comforting embrace. Seth held his son tightly, trying to soothe both their fears.

Sarah's grotesque face now inches from Seth's. Her eyes bore into his soul, and he could see the veins protruding in her decaying neck. Her mouth stretched open unnaturally wide as she repeated her haunting words, "You can't save him. You can't save him. YOU CAN'T SAVE HIM! YOU CAN'T SAVE HIM!"

"Erin, I love you." Seth said to his son, ignoring the manifestation in his mind.

"I love you, too daddy".

VI

​

Seth lay there, his gaze locked with Sarah's blood-soaked foot, inches from his face. "Let me try that again," still holding his throat Butch bends down closer, "where is my fucking money." Seth jolted upright in bed, his heart pounding against his chest as his screams pierced the air. The room, dimly lit and suffocating, seemed to close in on him, suffused with an eerie stillness. As he turned his head to scan the surroundings, the ghastly face of Sarah's lifeless corpse filled his vision, her mouth contorted in a scream that reverberated at full volume: "YOU CAN'T SAVE HIM!" The sheer terror gripped Seth, his screams blending with the haunting echoes of Sarah's voice. "Shut up, shut the fuck up," he pleaded, desperate to drown out the tormenting specter. But the room offered nothing from the onslaught of his own mind.

Then, a forceful slap struck the side of Seth's face, snapping him out of the nightmarish trance. Emily kneeled before him. "Seth, fucking look at me," she commanded, her voice cutting through the chaos. Seth's senses began to reconnect with reality, his trembling body slowly becoming aware of his surroundings. Erin's cries pierced through the haze, a heartrending plea for his mother's presence. Vulpix, growling at Seth, positioning itself steadfastly in front of Erin. Emily approached, picking up Erin. "I'm taking Erin for a walk to calm him down, are you okay with that?"

"I... I... don't..." he stammered, the weight of his words seemingly stretching into eternity, mingling with the rapid rhythm of his hyperventilation.

"Seth I have been with you for over a week, if I was going to hurt you guys I would have. Please let me help him," she pleaded.

Seth struggled to find his voice amidst the lingering panic, his tears welling up as he nodded weakly. Emily gently closed the door behind her, leaving Seth alone in the room. Vulpix curled up in his lap, offering a comforting presence. In the stillness of the room, he allowed himself to release the pent-up emotions, his tears flowing freely.

VII

​

As Emily entered the room, Erin on her shoulder, asleep and drooling, she found Seth in the same position, seemingly calmer than before. She gently laid Erin down on the bed, making sure he was comfortable, before settling herself on the floor, leaning against the nightstand positioned between the beds. Vulpix pranced over towards her and she fed her fingers through Vulpix's golden curls. The silence hung in the air, giving Seth the space he needed to open up.

"Thank you for Erin," Seth finally spoke.

"No problem," Emily replied softly, her voice filled with understanding. "I told him you had a bad dream and that you were okay."

Seth sighed, his gaze fixed on a distant point in the room. "I keep seeing her," he confessed. "Sarah, his mother, my wife. I keep seeing her face, the way I found her... lifeless. And she keeps screaming, 'I can't save him.'"

Emily listened attentively, "You know that it's just in your mind," she offered, trying to provide some reassurance.

"I know," Seth acknowledged. "But that doesn't bring me any relief. The images, the screams... they haunt me." Silence enveloped the room once again, Emily grappling with the difficulty of finding the right words to console Seth in his anguish. "I miss her so much. I'm so sleepless without the real her and this image in mind won't fucking stop."

"About two years ago, I heard of a rumor of a Team Rocket training operation in the Hollow Mountains north of Cerulean City," Emily began, her voice steady but tinged with the weight of her past. "I was sleeping on the ground in a shallow cave when suddenly, I found myself pinned down by Devin, the member of Team Rocket who had bought me, on his cold concrete floor. I felt suffocated by his presence, his repulsive breath. At that moment, I was trapped, unable to escape the episode. I don't know how long it lasted, but the impact of that trauma... it stays with you."

She paused, searching for the right words to continue. "The point is, Seth, we never truly get over our trauma. I had the luxury of dealing with it in my own way, without burdening others. But you... you don't have that luxury. You have Erin to think about. You need to find a way to manage your own pain, to keep it in check, for his sake. I don't have all the answers, but you have to figure it out. Basically pull it the fuck together."

"Did you ever find that Team Rocket operation?" he asked.

Emily nodded, her gaze drifting to a Pokéball in her hand. "I did. I stumbled upon an outpost hidden within the mountains, with dozens of cells holding different Pokemon. But one discovery shook me to the core," she revealed. She released Arctibax, its blue body and icy fin immediately cooling the room. "Frigibax, before he evolved, was being forced to feed on his own mother's flesh. The sight of the Baxcalibur, the decayed remains of his mother, was horrifying,"

"Fuck," Seth muttered.

Emily's expression softened as she reached out to stroke Arctibax's head gently. "Me and Larion killed the half-dozen Team Rocket members running that outpost and released the imprisoned Pokemon. Arctibax, however, chose to stay by my side," she explained. Emily couldn't help but chuckle as she felt the cold emanating from Arctibax's icy body. "Alright, Arc, you're freezing me out. Time to go back," she said, recalling him into its Pokéball. She extended her hand to Seth, who gratefully took it and pulled himself up from the floor.

"Thanks again, Emily," Seth expressed.

"No problem at all, but remember, you owe me dinner next time," Emily replied with a playful grin. They both retreated to their separate beds, fully aware that sleep would elude them for the remainder of the night.

VIII

​

The road to Pewter City seemed to pass by quickly. Seth and his team made the most of the journey, utilizing the time to engage in intense training sessions. Vulpix, Mankey, and Staravia received special attention as Seth focused on their speed. Meanwhile, Grotle, carrying Erin on its back, practiced its grass-type moves. Erin would point out targets—rocks or sturdy trees—and yell "attack the bad guy." Grotle would unleash razor-sharp leaves, slicing through the air with precision. It also showcased its strength by uprooting thick roots from the ground.

As the group approached Pewter City, the setting sun began its descent, casting long shadows along Route 3. With darkness encroaching, they realized it was time to set up camp for the night. "I really don't want to set up camp here, knowing there's a serial killer on the loose," Seth muttered.

"We don't have a choice. It's better than wandering aimlessly in the darkness. Just to be safe, let's release all our Pokémon, and we'll take turns keeping watch while the others rest." Emily said, acknowledging the lack of options.

Seth reluctantly nodded, they worked diligently, assembling the tents by the dim glow of the flickering campfire. As they released their Pokémon, a sense of purpose settled over the campsite. Seth issued clear instructions. "Vulpix, you'll stay close to Erin throughout the night," Seth commanded, his voice firm. Erin eagerly embraced the golden fox Pokémon. "Mankey, you're sticking by my side at all times," Seth continued. Mankey nodded, ready to carry out its assigned duty. "Staravia, I want you to patrol the skies above us. Alert us if you sense any approaching danger. We will be around every half hour to wake you for patrol." The agile bird Pokémon took flight, its wings beating with purpose as it began its aerial surveillance. Seth turned his gaze to Grotle, "You'll be positioned in the field, blending into the surroundings," Seth explained. "If you spot anyone suspicious, use your power to use the roots to immobilize them."

Emily released her two Pokémon, "Lairon, stay by my side at all times, and Arctibax, you'll be on the side of defense that Grotle isn't monitoring," Emily added.

The night settled around the camp, casting a veil of silence over the sleeping figures of Erin and Emily inside their tents. Seth and Mankey, however, remained vigilant, their forms illuminated by the flames of the campfire. As Seth gazed at Mankey, he couldn't help but notice the scar above its eye.

Mankey's watchful eyes scanned the surroundings, ever alert. Meanwhile, Seth's attention was drawn to a particular spot in the dark field. There, Sarah's lifeless form hovered, her naked body suspended in the air, severed legs oozing blood. The repetition of "It's not real, it's not real" echoed relentlessly in Seth's mind.

The piercing shriek of Staravia shattered the silence and his illusion, causing Seth and Mankey to jolt upright, ready for any threat. Emily swiftly joined them, Larion positioned protectively in front of her. Vulpix stood guard over the stirring Erin. In the flickering light of the campfire, a figure materialized, revealing a tall, muscular man with slick black hair and olive skin. Perched on his shoulder was a Flapple. His raised hands conveyed a message of non-aggression.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 4​

Angels With Dirty Faces​

No chance that I could win

Too hard to not give in

I just don't feel the same

Cause I'm the one to blame

Sometimes I can't hold on

And no one can help me



- Sum 41 ​

I

​

"Recall that fucking Pokémon now!" Seth's voice reverberated with fury.

"FLAPPLE!" Erin's voice filled with excitement as he recklessly dashed towards the figure, only to be restrained by his father's firm grip on the back of his shirt.

"What did you do to Grotle?" Seth demanded, his voice laced with concern.

The mysterious man appeared bewildered. "Who? What? I just followed the light of the campfire instead of wandering in the darkness."

Fueled by frustration, Seth commanded Vulpix, "Flamethrower on the path he just took!" Flames erupted, casting an intense glow that revealed Grotle peacefully sleeping, oblivious to the chaos. "You've got to be kidding me," Seth muttered in disbelief. "Grotle!" he called out in irritation. Grotle rose and approached the firelight, fixing a stern gaze upon the figure as if he hadn't dropped the ball.

After exchanging a brief moment of amusement with Grotle, He turned his attention back to Seth. "My name is Brian, and I'm searching for my sister. I lost track of time, and before I could find my way to Route 3, the sun had already set."

Seth's voice boomed with authority, "Put that Flapple away now!"

Reluctantly, Brian obeyed, recalling his Flapple with a flash of red light. "Fine," he sighed. "Can I at least sit here for the night? It's not safe to be on this road after dark. There is a crazy guy out there."

"No! Now get the fuck out!" Seth's frustration echoed in his words.

"Seth," Emily intervened, her tone gentle yet firm. "I will take the remainder of the night. Let him stay. We can't leave this man to fend for himself and risk his life out there."

"I'm not willing to risk Erin's safety for a stranger," Seth stubbornly declared.

Emily met Seth's gaze, her voice unwavering. "And are you willing to potentially condemn a man to death for that? I promise you, I will ensure his Pokéballs are in my possession while he's here. That shouldn't be a problem, right?" She directed a sharp glance at Brian.

Brian quickly responded, "No, ma'am."

Seth grumbled in discontent, "This is a mistake. Grotle, don't fall asleep this time." With those words, Seth, Mankey, Vulpix, and Erin retreated to their tent. Everyone but Seth was sound asleep almost immediately. While he fought the urge to sleep for maybe over an hour he slowly succumbed as well.

II

​

When Seth awoke, the sun had already risen high in the sky. Panicked, he immediately noticed that Erin was not by his side. "Erin!" he called out.

"Over here," Emily responded calmly.

Seth hurriedly exited the tent, finding Emily cooking breakfast over the fire. "Why did you let me sleep? You could have..." His gaze immediately fell upon Flapple, still out of its Pokéball. "Wait, why is Flapple still out? Vulpix!"

"Calm down," Emily replied, unfazed. "I told him it was okay."

"That's not your decision!" Seth retorted.

"Maybe not, but for one, Erin wouldn't stop pestering us to let him play with Flapple." Seth noticed Brian on the side of the field, observing Erin and Flapple playing together. "And two, it's his favorite Pokémon. Look at how much fun he's having."

Seth let out a sigh, realizing he had overreacted. "Maybe you're right. I'm sorry for snapping. So, what's his story?" Seth inquired, curious about Brian's background. She handed him a flier featuring a woman named Rachel Jarrus, a captivating figure with short black hair. The flier bore the words Have you seen me? at the bottom. "Seems like he was telling the truth," Seth commented, studying the image of Rachel.

"Seems to be. But hey, I know you have to head out here soon to take on Brock and there is something I need to discuss with you." Emily's words piqued Seth's curiosity. "I can't go with you guys into the city," Emily stated, her face displaying determination.

"Why?" He inquired, his voice filled with curiosity and concern.

She took a moment to collect her thoughts before responding, her gaze steady. "I've shared with you how I've been fighting against those bastards since I escaped. They don't know my face, but if I were to go through the Pewter City checkpoint, they would one, ask for my ID, which I don't possess. Two, it would become evident that I haven't paid any taxes to them well since I was bought. That wouldn't end well for me. To reach Devin, I'll have to find a way to sneak in during the cover of night."

Understanding Emily's predicament, Seth nodded in acknowledgement. "Alright, well, when we leave Pewter City and head back to Cerulean, we can make a stop here. Erin has grown attached to you, and it would be good for him to see you again."

A grateful smile formed on Emily's face. "I appreciate that. It has actually been pretty fun. You're a good person Seth. I truly hope you can free him from Kanto."

Seth and Emily shared a fleeting smile as the morning sun cast its warm glow upon them. Her freckled face and blue eyes shining with a gentle radiance. Seth rose from the log near the crackling fire. "Erin, it's time to say goodbye to Flapple. We're leaving as soon as I'm packed up."

"Okay daddy," he called back.

Meanwhile, Brian approached Seth while he was busy dismantling the tent, and Vulpix stared at him with an unwavering gaze. "Is that Vulpix gold?" Brian asked, his voice filled with curiosity.

"Yeah, it belonged to my wife," Seth replied.

"I see. Would you mind if I walked back with you?" Brian asked tentatively, his muscular stature contrasting with his uncertain demeanor.

Seth's response was curt and cold. "I don't care what you do, Brian."

"Oh, okay," Brian replied, his voice betraying a touch of insecurity.

III

​

Seth and Brian began their walk, an awkward silence settled between them. Brian attempted to make small talk, but his efforts were met with minimal response from Seth. The road they were on, Route 3, gradually widened as they approached Pewter City. The towering buildings loomed over the rolling fields. After about a half hour of walking, they reached the checkpoint at the edge of the city.

"Brian, since you live here, can you tell me if Team Rocket is a major presence in this city?" Seth inquired.

"It's a bit of a mixed bag, really," Brian replied. "It depends on who they have operating in the city. Some grunts can be real assholes and make life hell for everyone. But then there are others who simply don't care or aren't as active."

Seth nodded, "What about the ones at the checkpoint? Are they strict?"

"Well, we're about to find out. I went through the southern route 2 checkpoint yesterday." Brian said, a hint of uncertainty in his voice. They approached the checkpoint, they noticed two small buildings flanking a large gate in the middle. The gate bore a prominent red "R" symbol, with the words "Route 3 Entrance" written below it. Men dressed in black uniforms could be seen patrolling around the buildings and stationed in front of the gate. Tall walls, about fifteen feet high, extended from the buildings, encircling the expansive city of Pewter. Erin sat comfortably on Seth's shoulders, while Vulpix positioned itself between Seth and Brian.

"Seth, I think it's best if Vulpix gets into its Pokéball here," Brian suggested. "It will be safer for Erin." He addressed Vulpix who was glaring daggers at him.

"I promise I'll release you as soon as we pass through the checkpoint." As Seth spoke, a red light enveloped Vulpix. To his surprise and gratitude it vanishes into the Pokéball.

"Alright, here's how it's going to go," Brian explained. "They'll likely inspect our belongings and request identification. As long as you're up to date on your taxes and don't have any criminal records, you should be able to enter without any issues." They approached the imposing gate, its towering presence sending a shiver down Seth's spine. His heart raced in his chest, anticipation and anxiety intertwining within him.

IV

​

A Team Rocket member approached them, emanating an aura of malevolence that Seth couldn't ignore. "Identification, now," the towering woman demanded, her tone cold and authoritative. He was worried he was either going to hand over their identification cards or punch the girl in the face. He was happy he chose the former. He grabbed the cards out of his wallet in his back pocket and stretched out a hand with two cards, one for himself and the other for Erin. Brian also handed his id over, and the Team Rocket member collected them before retreating to the nearby tower to the left. Time seemed to stretch, each passing moment feeling like an eternity. He couldn't help but worry about Erin's safety in this vulnerable position. If any of them decided to cause trouble, he felt helpless to protect his son.

He glanced back and forth, observing the activities of Team Rocket within the tower. He anxiously awaited their return. "You doing okay up there, buddy?" Seth whispered to Erin, attempting to offer reassurance.

"Yup," Erin replied, his voice filled with innocence and trust, engrossed in playing with his Flapple toy on top of his father. Finally, the she approached them once more, returning their identification cards.

"You're free to go," she stated, her voice lacking any warmth or friendliness.

The gate slowly opened, Seth's heart pounded loudly in his chest, the sound echoing in his ears. Walking through the gate, Brian remarked, "Well, that went smoothly at least. Thanks for letting me walk with you. I have to head this way," Brian pointed to the left road. "Keep going straight into the heart of the city, you will find Brock's gym. Please if you do find anyone resembling my sister please go to the Citizen Watch Building." Seth nodded, and they went their separate ways. Seth released Vulpix from its Pokéball, offering an apology for the earlier confinement. They continued walking, and he was captivated by the sheer beauty of Pewter City. It was so different to the war-torn and sorrowful places they had encountered, with Team Rocket's influence spreading darkness. The city seemed like a different world, bustling with activity, people going about their lives oblivious to the suffering beyond the city walls. Conversations and laughter filled the air, creating an illusion of prosperity. Erin excitedly pointed out different Pokémon they could see, while Seth fought to contain his emotions, aware that this apparent bliss was built upon the suffering of others.

However he knew he had to stay focused. Instead of dwelling on the facade, he concentrated on his battle plan for facing Brock. Grotle would lead the charge, chipping away at Brock's first Pokémon. Mankey, through endurance, could take down a slower rock type Pokémon. Seth had to trust in the training they had undergone and believe it would pay off in the upcoming battle.

V

​

Approaching the Pewter City Gym, Erin's eyes widened in amazement at the sheer size of the building. Its exterior showcased a blend of sturdy stone walls and intricate architectural details. The gym's entrance was adorned with a grand stone archway, carved with intricate patterns that depicted various Rock-type Pokémon, showcasing the gym's specialty. The archway served as a gateway into the vast interior, where trainers would face their ultimate challenge. The gym loomed before them, an imposing structure that commanded respect.

"Daddy, look how big it is!" Erin exclaimed with excitement.

Seth smiled down at his son. "Yes, it's quite impressive, isn't it? Do you think Grotle is ready?"

Erin nodded confidently. "Yupporuni! Grotle's been training hard, and we're going to win!"

"Well, I'm glad you're confident, buddy," Seth said, ruffling Erin's hair.

VI

​

The gym's interior was equally awe-inspiring. The vast expanse was dominated by rocky terrain, resembling a natural cave formation. Large boulders, carefully arranged to create challenging obstacles, were scattered throughout the gym floor. The floor itself mimicked the rough texture of natural rock, adding an element of authenticity to the environment. At the center of the gym, a raised platform stood, serving as the battleground. Carved from solid stone, the platform exuded strength and stability. In the distance, a towering statue of a powerful Rock-type Pokémon, seemingly carved from the same stone as the platform.

Beyond the battlefield arena, a second stage rose, adding an impressive layer of grandeur to the gym. Two grand staircases, fashioned from sturdy stone, cascaded down from each side of the platform, meeting at the center where Brock stood. He exuded an aura of strength and determination. His shirtless form revealed a chiseled physique. His rugged appearance was complemented by a pair of well-worn jeans. As Seth's gaze shifted towards the stage, his eyes widened with disbelief. Surrounding Brock were ten women, positioned along the platform. Their appearances evoked a sense of allure and submission. Clad in revealing outfits that accentuated their figures, they seemed more like objects of display than individuals with agency. The women's attire consisted of tight-fitting dresses, barely covering their bodies, and emphasizing their curves. Their hair, styled meticulously, cascaded in waves or hung in perfectly arranged braids, further enhancing their visual appeal.

What struck Seth with unease was the unsettling age range among these women. Some appeared to be young, barely teenagers, their innocence overshadowed by the explicit presentation. Others were older, but their submissive postures and downtrodden expressions suggested a lack of autonomy and freedom. It was a disconcerting sight, challenging any preconceived notions of Brock's character and raising questions about his treatment of those around him. Seth couldn't help but feel a sense of discomfort and unease. Any illusion that he had of Brock being a good person in a shitty country was shattered immediately.

"How many badges do you have?" Brock's booming voice echoed through the gym, directed at Seth.

"This will be my first badge," Seth replied confidently.

Brock smirked, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "I see. Well then, I may be required to only battle you with two Pokémon, but that doesn't mean I'm going easy. Do you still want to challenge me?" Seth nodded in approval. "Fine then! Show me your best."

He descended the stairs and positioned himself on the left side of the arena, ready for the challenge. Seth, Vulpix and Erin made their way to the opposing side. Before the battle commenced, Brock established the rules. "This is a gym battle, and we will do our best to avoid causing any serious harm, namely death, to each other's Pokémon. Our goal is to knock them out. I don't have enough time in the day to raise new Pokemon with each gym battle. Do you agree with these conditions?" Relieved that the battle would not escalate to a dangerous level and traumatize Erin, he nodded in agreement. "Alright, ladies," Brock called out to the women on the platform, his tone suggestive. "I'll be back shortly. Enjoy the spectacle."

VII

​

With a swift motion, he tossed a pokéball into the air, releasing a burst of red light that materialized into a sturdy Sudowoodo. it emerged from the pokéball with an unsettling menace. Its appearance was deceiving, resembling a tall, gnarled tree with a hardened, stone-like exterior. Its body was covered in rough, bark-like skin, exhibiting deep cracks and crevices. The branches that extended were long, twisted limbs, each ending in sharp, jagged points that gave off an eerie impression. As the Sudowoodo stood tall on the battlefield, its eyes gleamed with a sinister glint.

"Erin, release Grotle!" Seth commanded, his voice resolute. With a burst of excitement, Erin threw his pokéball forward, and in a flash of light, Grotle's sturdy form took shape. Its massive shell glistened with a mossy green hue.

Brock's voice thundered through the gym as he took charge. "Sudowoodo, unleash your true power! Show them the might of Rock Slide!" With a powerful stomp, Sudowoodo shook the ground beneath its feet, causing the towering rock formations surrounding the battlefield to crumble. Enormous boulders were dislodged and hurtled towards Grotle, threatening to crush it under their weight.

Seth's voice echoed with determination. "Grotle, Shield yourself with Withdraw!" Grotle swiftly retreated into its sturdy shell, creating a protective barrier just in time. The deafening sound of rocks colliding with the shell filled the air, creating a symphony of destruction.

Brock's eyes had an intensity about them. "Sudowoodo, strike with the force of Wood Hammer!" Sudowoodo's gnarled arms transformed into massive, vine-covered tree trunks. It charged towards Grotle, aiming to deliver a bone-shattering blow.

Seth's voice grew more urgent. "Grotle, counter with Leech Seed at close range!" Grotle endured the impact, seizing the opportunity to ensnare Sudowoodo with its vines. They coiled around Sudowoodo's limbs, draining its energy while it was in close proximity.

Brock's smirk widened. "Sudowoodo, unleash Fire Punch!" Sudowoodo broke free from the vines, its limbs engulfed in scorching flames. With a burst of speed, it closed the distance between itself and Grotle, delivering a devastating fiery punch to Grotle's vulnerable spot under its shell. Grotle was sent flying, bearing scorched marks from the attack.

Seth cried out. "Grotle, retaliate with Giga Drain!" Roots emerged from the ground, entwining around Sudowoodo's feet and draining its life force. Sudowoodo's movements became sluggish, clearly affected by the draining power.

Seth seized the opportunity. "Grotle, finish this with Solar Beam!" Grotle's tired eyes flashed with a final surge of energy. It absorbed the intensifying sunlight, gathering an immense amount of power within its core. A blinding beam of scorching light erupted from Grotle's mouth, engulfing Sudowoodo in a cataclysmic display of destructive force.

The gym quaked as the ground cracked beneath the impact. As the dust settled, Sudowoodo lay motionless on the battlefield, defeated and battered.

"Grotle, while Sudowoodo is down, drain its energy once more with Giga Drain!" Seth commanded. As Grotle's roots emerged from the ground and snaked around Sudowoodo's body, a surge of red light enveloped the defeated Pokémon, draining its remaining vitality until it vanished from sight.

"Good work. Let's see how you handle this." With a commanding gesture, Brock released his next Pokémon, and a chilling presence filled the arena. Out emerged a colossal Onix, its massive body coiling and writhing as it towered over the battlefield. Onix's rugged stone exterior seemed to emanate a primal power, its eyes gleaming with an unsettling energy.

The intimidating Onix's rocky armor bore the marks of countless battles. Its immense size alone was enough to send shivers down the spine of any opponent. The sheer weight and scale conveyed a sense of danger that lingered in the air.

Just as Seth contemplated how to turn the tide, he knew he needed a strategic change. "Yay, Grotle!" Erin cheered excitedly from behind his father.

Onix, in its immense strength, wrapped itself around a stone pillar, effortlessly reducing it to rubble. Brock's voice boomed across the battlefield. "Alright, Onix, unleash a barrage of Rock Throws!" Onix's tail swung forcefully, propelling a cascade of rocks towards Grotle.

Thinking quickly, Seth yelled, "Grotle, withdraw!" Grotle swiftly retreated into its protective shell, but the relentless rocks pummeled its defense. Some shattered against Grotle's shell, while others collided with the wall just beside Seth and Erin. Grotle emerged from its shell, visibly injured but determined to press on.

"Grotle! Position yourself between Onix and Brock's women!" Seth commanded, recognizing the advantage that Brock needed to shield the vulnerable bystanders. Grotle obeyed, strategically maneuvering to block Onix's path and limit its options. However, Onix's powerful tail lashed out, sending Grotle flying across the stadium and crashing into a rock pillar. Grotle struggled to rise but collapsed from exhaustion.

"Grotle!" Erin cried out, beginning to run towards the battlefield before being gently restrained by his father.

"Return, Grotle!" Seth swiftly recalled his exhausted Pokémon, who disappeared into its Pokéball. "Erin, will you take care of Grotle while I finish this battle?" Seth asked, concern etched on his face.

"Uh-huh," Erin nodded, understanding his role. Seth released Grotle by Erin's side.

"Alright, Mankey, it's your turn," Seth declared. Mankey sprang onto the field, agilely scaling a nearby pillar to meet Onix eye-to-eye.

Seth's voice resonated with disappointment and a touch of anger as he confronted Brock. "It's sad. I always heard you were actually one of the decent leaders who still cared about Kanto. But here you are, ignoring the suffering of our people, surrounded by women and even children. You're sick. "

Brock's face twisted with frustration, his retort filled with defiance. "Think logically. No matter what I do, Team Rocket will always have a hold on Kanto. But if I play the game I get what I want." He points with his thumb behind him to his forced fanbase. "Additionally, Pewter city and its residents thrive. At least the ones that can afford to. I really don't care how you feel about me. Because no matter how this battle goes afterwards I get to enjoy my life, so let's get this over with." Seth shook his head in irritation and disgusted. Words were useless at this point so he refocused back on the battlefield.

The tension mounted between Mankey and Onix, Seth's heart raced with anticipation. The atmosphere in the gym turned sinister as Brock's voice boomed with malevolence. "Onix, unleash your Rock Tomb!" Onix's tail lashed out with a bone-chilling force, striking the pillar where Mankey stood moments ago. The pillar crumbled into rubble, but to Brock's surprise, Mankey leaped gracefully onto Onix's head, evading the attack with agility. Mankey, perched on the towering Onix, taunted its opponent with audacious gestures. It hopped from one remaining pillar to another, mocking Onix with its daring maneuvers. The air crackled with an unsettling energy as Onix growled in frustration.

Seth's voice resonated with trepidation. "Mankey, keep pushing!" As the tension escalated, the battle took on an unsettling and suspenseful tone. The clash between the agile Mankey and Onix intensified, filling the gym with an ominous presence. As the battle between Onix and Mankey unfolded, Onix continued to launch relentless attacks, but Mankey's agility and speed allowed it to dodge each strike with incredible precision. Onix's massive body, while intimidating, proved to be a hindrance as its size made it harder to land accurate blows.

With each missed attack, Onix grew visibly exhausted, panting heavily as it struggled to keep up with Mankey's swift movements. Sensing an opportunity, Seth commanded Mankey with confidence. "Mankey, use Low Kick!" Mankey swiftly moved in, its leg swinging with precision and striking Onix's sturdy body with a powerful blow. Onix staggered, momentarily losing its balance, as its massive form crashed to the ground, creating a tremor that reverberated throughout the battlefield. Seizing the advantage, Mankey leaped onto Onix's fallen form, demonstrating its dominance. With a fierce expression on its face, Mankey made its intentions clear. It positioned itself near the joint connecting Onix's head, readying its powerful attack, Brick Break and staring at Brock.

Seth's voice cut through the eerie silence, his words dripping with icy determination. "Do you give up?"

"Yeah, alright. That Mankey was stronger than I had anticipated. " Brock grumbled in resignation. In an instant, Onix vanished from the battlefield. The atmosphere shifted as Mankey's triumphant screeches filled the air, echoing through the gym. The eerie stillness was shattered by Mankey's exuberant jumps and celebratory cries.

Out of nowhere a glow behind Seth caught him completely off guard. Grotle's eyes emitted a brilliant white light, enveloping its entire body. Erin and Vulpix jump back in surprise with Vulpix in front protecting him. To his astonishment, a circle of roots and earth formed out of the ground and around Grotle, shimmering with ethereal beams of light that pierced through the gaps of the earth. The circle slowly crumbled away, unveiling the magnificent evolution of Grotle—Torterra. The Pokémon stood proudly, its massive tree-like shell hovering over them.

Erin's joyous scream filled the gym as he witnessed the incredible transformation of his beloved Grotle. With boundless excitement, he climbed Torterra's sturdy body, leaping and bouncing on the Pokémon's back. Torterra showed signs of residual pain still, but its happiness overshadowed any discomfort.

Brock approached Seth, Erin, Vulpix, and Torterra, offering a begrudging acknowledgement. "That was a decent battle. Here's your Boulder Badge," he said, handing the badge to Seth.

Seth took the badge with disdain. "Thanks," he replied curtly, his tone laced with bitterness. He couldn't help but feel a surge of anger towards Brock for his apathy towards the suffering of others.

Brock's brow furrowed, confusion evident in his expression. "Why even bother with the League challenge? It's a near-impossible feat," he questioned.

Seth's gaze hardened as he met Brock's eyes. Then his gaze went towards the girls before turning back to him, "Because unlike you, I'm willing to go to any lengths to protect and save those who truly matter," he declared resolutely.

With that, Seth turned away from Brock, Erin and Vulpix trailing behind him. He recalled Torterra and Mankey, ready to leave the gym and continue their journey. As they walked out, Seth couldn't shake off the lingering thought of the girls under Brock's influence, but he pushed it aside, recognizing the harsh reality of a world that often trampled upon the hopes and dreams of its inhabitants.

VIII

​

After a satisfying meal, Seth and Erin returned to their hotel room as the sun began to set. Erin, still beaming with excitement over Torterra's evolution, curled up next to Vulpix and drifted off to sleep. Seth's thoughts, however, turned to Emily. He couldn't shake off the worry that lingered in his mind, wondering if she was safe. He decided to send Staravia to deliver a note and find out where she was headed to and after dealing with Team Rocket. Seth hoped that she would consider joining them after her business was done.

Staravia gracefully took flight through the open window, disappearing into the darkening sky. As the minutes ticked by, darkness gradually settled in the room, casting an eerie ambiance. Seth anxiously awaited Staravia's return, his mind filled with a mixture of hope and concern.

After what felt like an eternity, Staravia reappeared, landing on the floor with a soft thud. Seth approached his loyal Pokémon, ready to retrieve the note. However, his anticipation quickly turned to horror as his gaze fell upon the object lying at Staravia's feet. There, on the now blood-stained carpet, lay the top half of Arctibax's skull.

His heart pounding, Seth's attention was suddenly drawn to the other end of the room. Sarah and her ghostly presence hovered ominously. Her contorted mouth cracked open, releasing a chilling chant that echoed through the room. "You can't save her!"

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 5​

Salt​

That all of our words only mean what's behind them

You can't throw gasoline on a fire

And say you tried to put it out

Pour the salt into the wound

Let the rain wash over you ​

-The Devil Wears Prada ​

I​

"YOU CAN'T SAVE HER!"

II

​

The day gradually faded into evening. The spring air enveloped the campsite with a sense of ethereal tranquility. It hung weightless around the camp. The cool breeze gently rustled the leaves.

Emily found herself lost in thoughts about the gym battle and, more importantly, about Erin. Just the mere thought of him brought a smile to her face—his infectious dimples, his unruly curly black hair, his warm brown skin that seemed to emit its own sunlight, and those captivating hazel eyes that drew you in. She couldn't help but wonder how the battle had unfolded. The idea of continuing to travel with Seth and Erin crossed her mind. After dealing with her own past, she contemplated asking Seth if she could join their journey. There was little left for her in this country, but she believed she could at least make a difference and help free the one truly good thing she had encountered: Erin. And hell, perhaps she could sabotage Team Rocket whenever opportunities arose during their travels.

The crackling of the campfire suddenly startled Emily, jolting her back to reality. She realized she had been lost in her own mind. Arctibax stood guard over the camp. The impact of his presence was evident in the dying grass encircling them, now tinged with a delicate layer of frost.

Arcibax had become a formidable force in their fight against Team Rocket. The bond between them was strengthened by their shared disdain for the organization. His deep-seated grudge against the orginzation mirrored her own. He had on more than one occasion used ice fang against them. He would sink his teeth into their jugular, releasing an icy grip that froze their entire neck and in an instant ripped their head from their shoulders. She sat in those peaceful memories. However, she found herself grappling with a profound internal conflict. For years, she had found solace in the companionship of Arctibax and Lairon. The mere thought of reconnecting with people again sent tremors through her core, as she was acutely aware of the relentless hardships and tragedies that this world had inflicted upon others. The question lingered in her mind: Was she truly prepared to expose herself to that anguish once more, to willingly subject herself to the potential for pain and loss?

Above, the sky flickered with distant lightning, illuminating the horizon in brief, electrifying flashes. Emily, deep in thought, sat on the log around the fire, feeling both anchored and apprehensive. The allure of rising from her seat beckoned her, but she hesitated, knowing that once she did, her relentless pursuit of revenge might reach its conclusion. There was a part of her that yearned for closure, to bring an end to the consuming drive that had fueled her existence. Yet, she couldn't deny the fear of facing the unknown, of discovering who she truly was beyond this singular purpose.

Her thoughts drifted back to Devin, the target of her vengeance, that singular purpose. A man of despicable nature, exuded repugnance. His unkempt appearance reflected his twisted soul, with greasy, matted hair that clung to his sweat-stained forehead. Deep-set, cold eyes bore into others with a predatory glare, conveying his predatory nature. A crooked smile, revealing yellowed, decaying teeth, adorned his face like a sinister mask. He reveled in his power, exploiting her vulnerability and manipulating her, leaving scars that ran deeper than the surface.

Emily's heart plummeted as she realized the chilling silence that had enveloped the campsite, shrouding it in an eerie stillness. The once-familiar sounds of Hoothoots and Kricketunes were conspicuously absent, as if nature itself held its breath. Her gaze darted toward her tent where Lairon remained in his Pokéball, sensing the unease that had settled upon the air. "Arctibax, come to me," Emily's voice trembled as she called out, the sound echoing in the unsettling quiet. Her heart pounded in her chest, matching the rhythm of her quickened breaths. Suddenly, without warning, a swift and menacing figure tore through the field, a Scyther hurtling toward Arctibax with lethal intent.

III

​

"Down!" Emily's voice pierced through the stillness, her cry desperate and urgent. Arctibax, his instincts kicking in, reactedlightning-fast. As Scyther lunged towards Arctibax, its sharp blades whirring through the air, the Pokémon managed to evade a direct hit to its neck by a hair's breadth. However, the blades grazed against the top of Arctibax's dorsal fin, slicing through the thick, protective ice and scales. The sickening sound of tearing flesh filled the air as a deep gash formed, oozing crimson blood flowing on its back. Agonized howls erupted from his mouth, mingling with Emily's gasp of horror as she witnessed the brutal assault.

A sinister voice slithered into the silence. The massive figure of the Pewter City Brute emerged, his imposing presence casting a shadow across the camp. The brute's hulking frame loomed before her. "Wonderful job avoiding that, my dear. Please continue, the fight makes it all the more thrilling," the Brute sneered, his voice dripping with sadistic pleasure.

"Arctibax, I need you ready. Are you alright?" Emily called out, concern etched across her face. He stood in front of Emily, his body positioned as a shield, ready to protect her at all costs. His fierce gaze locked onto the Brute's scyther. Its icy breath billowing from his nostrils. With a sudden burst of speed, Scyther launched himself at Arctibax, his blades gleaming in the setting sun. Emily knew he was too slow for scyther, timing and correct move choice was everything. "Dragon Breath, knock it off course!" Emily commanded, her voice laced with urgency. Violet flames erupted from Arctibax's mouth, Scyther quickly avoided the attack and flew higher in the sky. "Now let's slow this fucker down! Icy Wind!" A gust of wind sailed from behind Artibax pumping into Scyther. Coats of ice forming on the insects massive body.

"Enough of this! X-scissor!" The Brute roar. Scyther started flying through the roaring wind.

"You have the speed now! Dragon Claw!" Emily commanded, her voice filled with determination. Arctibax readied himself, his orange claws poised to pierce through Scyther's supposedly sluggish movements. However, to Emily's horror, Scyther's speed seemed to intensify with each passing moment, propelling him forward with unrelenting force. "Fuck, defe…" In a desperate bid to shield his body, Arctibax thrust his claw upward, intercepting Scyther's deadly blades just moments before they reached him. The clash of metal against claw reverberated through the air, and a surge of searing pain coursed through Arctibax's body. Scyther's razor-sharp blades carved a deep gash down the middle of Arctibax's claw down to his elbow, severing the flesh and spraying blood on the frost-covered grass below. But the onslaught did not end there. As Scyther soared past, his relentless momentum continued, it sliced through the back of Arctibax's tail with brutal precision. In an instant, it was severed from his body. The pain engulfed him, and a gut-wrenching roar escaped him.

"Arctibax!" Emily screamed in horror as Scyther turned its attention towards her, its blades dripping with blood, eagerly anticipating its trainer's command. Fear surged through Emily's veins as she realized the imminent danger she was in. Her mind raced, desperately searching for a way to escape this nightmare. The only hope was getting to Lairon. "Arctibax, attack the trainer with Ice Beam!" she commanded, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and determination.

Arctibax, despite his injuries, summoned his remaining strength and unleashed a powerful stream of ice towards the Brute who stood next to Emily's tent. However, he managed to evade the attack, narrowly avoiding the freezing blast as his massive stomach hit the ground. Emily seized the momentary distraction and began to cautiously creep towards the tent, her heart pounding in her chest.

Scyther, fueled by its savage instincts, turned its attention back to Arctibax. With astonishing precision, it stabbed its deadly blades into Arctibax's abdomen, lifting him off the ground and slamming him back down with brutal force. The impact vibrated through the air, leaving Emily paralyzed with shock and anguish.

"Scyther, we have to go, knock her out," The Pewter City Brute called out.

Realizing that her only chance of survival lay in reaching in the tent, Emily pushed through the pain and terror, mustering every ounce of strength she had left. But just as she was about to reach the tent, Scyther lunged towards her, ready to strike her with the back of its arm.

Emily braced herself for the impact, closing her eyes tightly, but to her surprise, the strike never came. She cautiously opened her eyes to witness Arctibax, his jaws clamped down on one of Scyther's arms, blood flowing from the wound and freezing around his mouth. Arcibax's intestines dangled from the gash in his stomach. The agonizing screams of the wounded Scyther filled the air as Arctibax's grip tightened, locking the arm away from Emily.

Scyther retaliated with a savage display of brutality. Using its free arm, it sliced the top half of Arctibax's skull clean off, blood splattering onto Emily's trembling form. A mix of shock, horror, and overwhelming grief flooding her senses. Tears streamed down Emily's face as she witnessed the sacrifice Arctibax had made to protect her. Not wanting to waste the moment Emily lunged towards the tent. But before she could reach it, the Brute's hand closed around her chestnut hair, yanking her forcefully to the ground. A mixture of fear and pain gripped her, and she began to scream, her voice echoing through the desolate campsite. "Stop! Please, stop!" she pleaded.

With a sadistic grin, the Brute produced a small vial of powdery substance from his pocket. Without hesitation, he sprinkled it onto Emily, and as it settled upon her, the world around her began to warp and twist. Her screams were silenced, swallowed by the darkness that enveloped her. She felt a suffocating sense of dread, as if being dragged into a deep abyss. The last thing she saw before succumbing to sleep was the twisted smirk on the Brute's face, his eyes gleaming with malevolence, and a bird in the sky. "Seth…", and in that moment, everything faded to black.

IV

​

Sarah's haunting words pierced through Seth's resolve, sending shivers down his spine. The twisted contortion of her mouth, coupled with her lifeless, vacant eyes, struck a chord of fear deep within him. The decaying wound on Sarah's neck seemed to grow before his very eyes, the putrid flesh consuming more of her throat with each passing moment. He clenched his fists, trying to steady himself, but the terror was overwhelming. "Shut up!" Seth whispered through gritted teeth, not wanting to disturb Erin who lay peacefully asleep nearby. Vulpix began sniffing Arctibax's skull. He knew he couldn't let Sarah's presence consume him, couldn't let her tormenting words unravel him. But as he attempted to turn his head and walk toward Erin, Sarah materialized right before his eyes.

Her scream reverberated through the room. "You can't save her!" Sarah's voice echoed with a ghastly resonance, the words lingering in the air like a sinister omen. Seth's heart pounded in his chest, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. He was torn between protecting Erin or saving Emily. He glanced at Erin, peacefully asleep. A fleeting thought crossed his mind: he could leave, go after Emily, and return before morning. But as he looked back at Sarah's lifeless naked body, her vacant eyes resembling the night he found her. But now she wore a twisted smile mocking him.

"No, I can't do this. It's too risky," Seth whispered, his voice barely audible in the suffocating silence of the room. Statavia looking up at him, clearly concerned.

"YOU CAN'T SAVE HER!" Sarah's voice sliced through the air, piercing his thoughts. Despite Seth's internal conflict, there was an underlying truth that gnawed at him—an unspoken selfishness that he detested. The relentless hallucinations, the voices that tormented his mind, were becoming unbearable. The mere thought of adding Emily's apparition to the haunting chorus of his imagination filled him with terror.

Seeking answers Seth turned to Staravia. "Did you see what happened to her?" Seth inquired, his voice laced with both fear and desperation.

Staravia nodded.

"Is she dead?" Seth's voice trembled with apprehension.

Staravia shook its head.

"Can you take me to where she is?"

Staravia nodded.

As Seth made his decision, a mix of guilt and self-preservation washed over him. He hated himself for it, but he couldn't bear the thought of subjecting himself to more hallucinations, more torment. He couldn't risk his own sanity, especially with Erin relying on him. Turning to Vulpix, he spoke with a soft, yet resolute tone, "Vulpix, you stay here and watch over Erin. Protect him at all costs. If anyone other than me or Emily opens that door, incinerate them." Vulpix's fiery eyes met his. Seth knew he couldn't leave Erin completely defenseless, and so he placed Torterra's Pokéball on the table. "This is just a contingency plan in case. Please, do something with Arctibax."

With a heavy heart, Seth returned to Staravia, the burst of red light engulfing the room. As he stepped into the hotel hallway, he was greeted by a blinding flash of lightning, illuminating the dark corridor. Illuminating Sarah at the end of the hall. Seth muttered to himself,"If everything I said was true then why am I, why am I still paralyzed?"

V

​

Emily's eyes shot open, her heart pounding in her chest as she struggled against the confines of the leather straps that bound her hands. Slowly, she realized that she was suspended in the air, her body lifted by a chain, and her feet barely touching the ground with the tips of her toes. Fear constricted her throat as she mustered the courage to speak, her voice trembling with dread. "What... what's happening?" Emily managed to utter, her voice filled with a mixture of confusion and terror.

A deep, rumbling voice reverberated through the cavernous space of the empty warehouse. "Ah, good. You're awake," it thundered, causing Emily to jerk. "As you can see, we're in a rather remote location. Feel free to scream, my dear. It won't bother me in the slightest." Reality crashed down upon Emily like a relentless wave, flooding her senses with horror. Her eyes darted across the room, settling on a chilling tableau that froze her blood. There, upon a cold, steel table, lay the lifeless body of a young woman. It was Brain's sister, Rachel. Naked, her limbs were conspicuously absent, replaced by pools of blood staining the surface beneath her. Emily's gaze then shifted, her heart sinking with each passing second, as she noticed the grotesque inch-wide gap in Rachel's neck, a horrifying void that separated her head from her body.

Across from Rachel, a man was suspended, his unconscious or lifeless form dangling in a twisted arrangement. His head hung limply, adding to the grim atmosphere that permeated the space. Chains rattled faintly, their echoes blending with the distant sounds of dripping water, creating an eerie symphony of despair. In the dimly lit expanse of the warehouse. The air hung heavy with a musty odor, as if a weight had settled within these desolate confines. Broken windows, cracked and smeared with dirt, allowed slivers of light from the storm to cast eerie beams that punctuated the dimmly lit space. Amidst the eerie silence, a chilling gust of wind whispered through the cracks, carrying with it a haunting lament that seemed to echo through the very soul of the warehouse.

Emily's voice trembled with fear as she mustered the strength to speak up. "What... What do you plan to do with me, fucker?" she demanded, her voice laced with a fragile toughness that barely concealed her terror.

The Brute turned his attention toward Emily, a sinister smile playing upon his twisted lips. He chuckled darkly, relishing in the atmosphere of dread he had carefully cultivated. "Oh, my dear, you will soon find out," he replied, his voice dripping with sadistic delight. Emily's eyes widened in disbelief, horror washing over her like a tsunami. Her gaze darted to the table next to him that held a severed leg. The Brute, picked up and sunk his teeth into it tearing into the seared flesh with a voracious appetite. The sound of crunching and slurping ran through the desolate warehouse, chilling Emily to the core.

Her breath caught in her throat as her gaze shifted to Scyther. The creature, had sunk into Rachel's remaining arm, ripping and tearing at the pale, lifeless flesh. The sickening sight of blood and tissue being devoured before her eyes made bile rise in Emily's throat, her tough façade crumbling in the face of this gruesome reality. The illusion of toughness shattered as Emily's stomach churned in disgust, unable to bear witness to the grotesque scene before her any longer. Her face twisted in horror, she gagged and retched, her body convulsing involuntarily. "Fucking shit!" Emily gasped, her voice trembling with a mix of revulsion and despair. "Please, Seth," she whispered through choked sobs, her voice barely audible amidst the grim sounds of the warehouse. "Please find me." The sounds of Scyther's and the Brute's feast flooded and surrounded her.

VI

​

The thunder continued to rumble ominously overhead, its echoes blending with the relentless downpour soaking Seth to the bone. He stood there, his gaze fixed upon the scattered remains of Arctibax strewn across the rain-soaked ground. The sky crackled with another burst of lightning, illuminating the darkened landscape, Seth's attention was drawn to the small tent nestled amidst the storm. With a sense of urgency, he approached the tent and swiftly unzipped the front flap, revealing Emily's abandoned sleeping bag and a lone Pokéball resting on the fabric.

Releasing the Pokéball, Seth called forth Lairon, who materialized before him, his steel frame reflecting the relentless rain. Lairon's eyes bore a mix of confusion and concern, sensing the absence of his trainer and the urgency in Seth's voice. Seth locked eyes with her Pokémon,. "Emily has been taken," he explained. "Will you help me save her?" Lairon nodded his head in understanding. Seth gently returned Lairon back to the Pokéball.

With a deep breath, Seth released Staravia into the stormy night, the Pokémon spreading its wings and taking to the tempestuous sky. Raindrops cascaded off its feathers as it stood before Seth, its keen eyes focused on him, awaiting his command. "Alright, Staravia," Seth spoke. "Show me where she is."


As the rain continued to pour down, mingling with Seth's unyielding resolve, Staravia soared into the ink-black night, guiding Seth through the tumultuous storm towards the unknown depths where Emily's life hung in the balance.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 6​

Gravity​

Pull me close, I feel the water reach around my neck

Don't let go, just show me that there's better days ahead

Make me see I'm only half the person I should be

Pull me close, set me free from this gravity ​

-Wage War ​

I

​

Following Staravia through the relentless storm, Seth's eyes strained to catch glimpses of his Pokémon's silhouette illuminated by the intermittent bursts of lightning. With each thunderous roar, he pushed forward. The rain cascaded down in torrents, drenching him to the core, as they ventured towards a building on the outskirts of Pewter City.

As they drew closer, the lights of the city flickered in the distance, providing glimpses of the imposing structure ahead. The flashes of lightning revealed a dilapidated warehouse, with weathered brick walls. The once vibrant paint had long faded, leaving behind a somber gray appearance that seemed to meld with the darkness of the stormy night.

The warehouse loomed before them, its windows shattered, allowing the gusting wind to whistle through its hollow chambers. The rain battered against its roof, creating an eerie symphony of drumming sounds that echoed through the night. The surrounding area was shrouded in an air of desolation, with overgrown weeds and tangled vines reclaiming the abandoned land.

As Seth approached the entrance, he could make out the peeling letters of an old sign, barely legible in the dim illumination: "Pewter City Storage Co." Through the cracked windows, faint light could be seen peering out. He cautiously approached an old awning that overlooked a side door into the storage building. As he reached the spot, Staravia swooped down and landed beside him, their eyes fixed on the entrance. He released Lairon and Mankey from their Pokéballs.

"Staravia, you need to engage as quickly as possible. Aim for the person who took Emily. I'm not sure how many or which Pokémon you'll face, but your main objective is to evade as much as possible until you position yourself just below Mankey," Seth explained, his voice firm and resolute. He turned to Mankey. "Mankey, I need you hidden up top and get ready to use rock tomb. You cannot miss this; the entire plan hinges on you timing this perfectly. We've practiced this countless times while hunting." Mankey looked away from Seth. "I know you can do this. If there are multiple Pokémon, I need you to jump into the fray after," Seth instructed. "Lairon, you're on defense. We might encounter Emily in there, and I don't know what condition she's in. Your priority is to protect me until I give the signal." Lairon grunted, understanding his objective.

Seth glanced at his Pokémon, "I don't know how many people or Pokémon are inside. Erin's safety is my priority. If the odds are against us, I will retreat. Understand?" Each of his Pokémon responded with affirming sounds. "Mankey, take your position, go." He swiftly vanished into the darkness. "Lairon, Staravia, follow me." Seth cautiously pushed open the creaking door, and together they disappeared into the depths of the building.

II

​

As Seth cautiously stepped into the warehouse, a scene of eerie darkness and chilling stillness enveloped his senses. The interior was dimly lit, with only flickering fluorescent lights scattered across the vast space, casting long, eerie shadows on the worn concrete floor. The air was heavy with a musty odor, mingling with a faint metallic tinge that sent shivers down Seth's spine. The warehouse itself was in a state of disarray, with stacks of wooden crates and discarded machinery haphazardly strewn about. The walls, coated in peeling paint and graffiti. Cracks and Spinarak webs stretched across the aged ceiling, further adding to the unsettling atmosphere.

Seth's gaze was drawn towards the back of the warehouse. A chilling breeze rustled through the broken windows. Seth's eyes shifted to a figure standing at the very back of the storage building, bathed in a dim spotlight. He quickly creeped behind a large wooden box and peered over to get a better view from safety. What he saw horrified him. It was the Pewter City Brute, a towering and imposing figure, his face obscured by shadows, but a wicked grin visible on his lips. What gave his identity away was the Scyther just off to the side of him eating what looked like a human arm.

As Seth's eyes scanned the grim surroundings, they fell upon Emily, she was suspended by a leather strap, her hands bound and raised by an attaching chain. He could see the fear in her eyes. There was also a young man strapped up across from her. But his attention was abruptly diverted to what laid on the table nearby. It looked like the missing sister, Rachel, her young and lifeless body displayed in a grotesque manner. Her missing limbs and her head separated from her neck created a chilling and brutal scene. His gaze turned towards the Pewter City Brute, whose twisted pleasure was evident as he sank his teeth into Rachel's severed leg. Scorched marks covered the skin. The sickening sound of flesh tearing sent a wave of revulsion through Seth.

Seth crouched behind the box, carefully weighing his options as he observed the scene before him. His eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for any sign of Mankey's presence. Perhaps if he waited, Mankey could find a way to maneuver above the room on the metal beams that stretched across the ceiling.

Amidst the tense silence, the sound of the Brute's voice reached Seth's ears. He peered back over and saw the sight of the enormous knife in the Brute's hand. Its sheer size was staggering, resembling the length of the Brute's own forearm. Seth strained to listen as the Brute spoke to Emily. "Apologies for the rather uncomfortable position you find yourself in," the Brute sneered, waving the colossal knife with nonchalance. "We had an incident a month ago, you know? Someone had the audacity to run from us. Can you believe that my dear? But rest assured, I've taken extra precautions to ensure that you won't be going anywhere." The words dripped with a sadistic sense of control.

Seth cautiously observed Mankey perched atop one of the metal beams, clutching a rock of immense size. Although his maneuverability was limited, Seth realized that the timing was perfect, since Scyther seemed engrossed in its gruesome feast. However, his heart sank as he noticed Lairon, who had strayed from hiding, fixated on Emily with an intense anger radiating from its body.

"Lairon," Seth whispered urgently, "Come back, wait." Ignoring his plea, Lairon's gaze remained locked on Emily and he began to charge. Frustration welled up inside Seth as he swiftly made his move towards the Brute. "Damn it, Staravia, distract Scyther and guide it beneath Mankey!" He whispered, "Go!"

III

​

In the chaos of the unfolding battle, Emily's eyes caught sight of Lairon charging towards the Brute with incredible speed. "Lairon, use Iron Head!" she screams. Scyther attempts to intercept, but before it can reach Lairon, Staravia swiftly seizes one of its wings, swings it around, and hurls it towards the ground. Lairon's powerful horns connect with the Brute's gut, sending him hurtling into the nearby wall, blood starting to discolor is white shirt. The impact jars the previously unconscious man, who is now wide awake and bewildered by the intense clash before him.

"What is this?!" The Brute yells, his voice echoing through the warehouse.

Lairon stands protectively in front of Emily, emitting a fierce roar directed at the Brute. Seth approaches Emily; he takes out his knife and begins cutting the strap that binds her. "Lairon, protect us at all costs," Seth commands, his voice filled with unwavering determination. Emily gazes into Seth's eyes, her own eyes filled with tears of relief. "You came," she whispers, her voice trembling. Seth gently lowers her to the ground, ensuring her comfort, and unbuttons his flannel draping it over her to shield her torn clothes from view. "Take it easy," he reassures her, his voice tender and comforting.

Seth ponders the situation, weighing his options carefully. He realizes that moving Lairon to attack Scyther would leave them vulnerable to this psychopath. Although Lairon had a better matchup against Scyther, he just moves too slowly in order to land a move. Then they run the risk of the Brute and Scyther teaming up against themselves with Staravia solely playing defense. Seth contemplates his next move, realizing that the established plan is their best chance at saving Emily. Staravia's role as a bait to lure Scyther under Mankey's position remains their only hope.

IV

​

Seth turns his head towards Emily and gives a smirk. The side smiles conveys a sense of confidence to Emily, instilling a glimmer of hope in her. Despite the fucking awful situation she was in, it feels as if Seth has an advantage.

"Staravia, Double Team!" Seth commands, his voice resolute. With a ferocious burst of speed and agility, Staravia lunges into action, leaving a trail of afterimages that blur together in a violent whirlwind of grey and black. Scyther is caught off guard, its movements faltering as it desperately tries to land an attack. Confusion and frustration consume him as it struggles to discern the real Staravia.

"Use wing attack on the counter!" Seth roared. With a snarl of frustration, the Brute commands Scyther to retaliate with a swift X-scissor. Scyther charges at Staravia, blades glinting ominously, but its attack falls short once more, narrowly missing its agile target. Seizing the opportunity, Staravia swiftly dives downward, driving its powerful wing into Scyther's side, sending it staggering toward the waiting Mankey. However, Scyther quickly regains its composure, slashing its blades in a furious frenzy, determined to land a hit. Yet, despite its relentless assault, Staravia's nimbleness proves too elusive for Scyther's flailing strikes, each slash slicing through nothing but air. The near-misses only fuel Scyther's mounting insanity, its movements growing wilder and more desperate. But with each failed attempt, Staravia becomes more emboldened. As Scyther swings and misses yet again, frustration etches deeper into the Brute's face. He realizes he is being outmatched and outplayed by the relentless speed of Staravia.

"Fuck this!" The Brute's frustration reaches a boiling point. He bent over and picked up a broken brick beside him. With a menacing scream, he hurls it towards Staravia. Reacting instinctively, Staravia retracts its wings, easily dodging the brick in mid-air. However, this split-second proves to be its undoing. Seizing the moment, Scyther hurtles towards Staravia with its arm raised. In a devastating strike, Scyther's blade slices through Staravia's wing. Blood spurts from the severed wing, splattering onto the floor below. The sound of him flapping on the hard ground with his anguished shriek enveloped the void, as Staravia writhes in excruciating pain.

"Staravia!" Seth's voice echoed through the room, horror coated his face as he watched Staravia, barely ten feet away from the spot where Mankey needed to be. Covered in blood, Staravia struggled to move, flapping its one wing, inch by agonizing inch, slowly closing the distance to Mankey. Unbeknownst to Scyther, lost in its own triumph, took slow steps hovering over top of its prey relishing in the moment. With a final, defiant shriek, Staravia collapsed. its eyes fixed on Mankey.

The Brute, noticing Seth staring at the ceiling finally sees Mankey, "Scyth…"

Seth yells over top of him, "Mankey, Rock Tomb!"

The room fell silent. Without hesitation, Mankey leaped from the steel beam, summoning every ounce of strength. With unbelievable speed, it hurled the massive rock downward. Scyther, oblivious to the impending danger, looked up to see its doom. The rock crashed it onto the unforgiving concrete below. Scyther's legs convulsing, and its battered wing was the only part visible from beneath the colossal stone. Staravia, caught in the aftermath, found its head trapped under the weight of the rock.

"No..." The Brute's voice quivered, his expression morphing into stunned disbelief.

"Take that, you fucker!" Emily's voice pierced the air.

Mankey landed atop the rock, his triumphant yells echoing through the room. His eyes glowed with an intense white light as he leaped off the rock, a ball of steam flooded around him causing him to vanish from sight within the immense power. With a mighty force, a massive fist burst through the sphere, and the vapor began to dissipate to reveal Primeape, steam billowing from his nostrils. His scar above his eye stretched to reflect its newly evolved form. As Primeape advanced toward The Brute, each step filled with impending doom, the Brute took a desperate step back, his pleas dripping with fear, "No, no, no, please, no."

"Primeape," Seth commanded, "Close Combat." Primeape surged forward, a blur of furious motion. The Brute, now cowering and shielding his face, could only watch in horror as Primeape unleashed its devastating attack. With an explosive impact, Primeape's fist tore through the Brute's chest, obliterating his heart. The Brute's body went limp, hanging lifelessly from Primeape's arm. Blood sprayed the wall behind him, splattering and pooling on the floor below.

"Fuck Yeah!" Emily screamed. Screams and sobs came from beside her with the man still chained up, broke down in relief.

Concerned for her well-being, Seth knelt down to meet Emily at eye level, his eyes searching hers. "Are you okay?" There were no words that could fully express her emotions. Instead, Emily simply wrapped her arms around Seth in a tight embrace, clinging to him as if he were her lifeline.

After a few moments, Seth gently pulled away from the hug, his concern visible. "Emily, I need to go. Erin is alone at the hotel."

She released her grip on him. "Thank you, for everything," Emily whispered, her voice filled with gratitude. She knew any part of her that wanted to continue her journey of solitude had come to an end.

"I'll take the Brute's body to the Citizen Watch building to collect the bounty. Once I'm done, Team Rocket will likely show up. Can you make it back to the campsite safely?" Seth asked.

"Yeah, I have Lairon with me. I'll be fine. Leave me your knife so I can free this guy before I leave." Emily replied, slowly rising to her feet. "I'll see you at camp tomorrow."

Seth nodded, "yeah, that sounds good." He made his way over to Staravia, following the trail of blood that led to his fallen Pokémon. Its head was no longer visible, the severed wing lying motionless on the ground. "I'm really sorry," Seth murmured, his voice heavy with regret. "But thank you."

Emily walked toward Primeape, who stood proudly in his evolved form, gazing down at his defeated opponent. She placed a hand on top of Primeape's head. "Fucking incredible, Primeape. Absolutely incredible," she praised, then spat on the corpse below her.

"Hey, grab the Brute's body. We need to leave," Seth called out. "Emily, you sure you are okay?"

She nodded, and watched the two disappear from sight.

V

​

Seth approached the Team Rocket gate, Primeape trailing behind him as he dragged the lifeless body of the Pewter City Brute. Rain still drizzling on them but the threat of the storm subsiding. The spotlights flashed upon them, drawing attention from the night shift members. One of them hurriedly approached, accompanied by a Zangoose, demanding an explanation. "Stop! What the fuck is this?"

Seth maintained his composure, looking the Team Rocket member straight in the eye. "This is the Pewter City Brute. You know, the killer that your organization did nothing about," he retorted.

He scoffed, attempting to distance himself from any responsibility. "We're not your fucking police force," he retorted dismissively.

"Yeah, I'm well aware of that. You shut down our police force, remember? Now let me through. Here's my ID. You can compare his face with one of the many bounty posters scattered around the city." After a tense few moments, the gate slowly opened, granting them passage. Seth and Primeape continued their march toward the Citizen Watch building, the city eerily deserted at this late hour. Seth had lost track of time amidst the chaotic events that unfolded. The Citizen Watch Building came into view, its worn exterior displaying remnants of its previous affiliation with law enforcement. The word "Police" was stained into the brick walls, marking the absence of a sign that once proudly hung above. As they entered, the doors slid open, revealing a brightly lit waiting room. A woman dressed in a blue uniform, with matching blue hair, sat behind the front desk, her gaze fixed upon them. "Hi, I'm Jenny. How can I... No way," the woman's voice trembled with surprise.

"Hello, I'm here to deliver this guy to you," Seth replied, his tone steady. Primeape heaved the brute's body onto the center of the room, dampening the floor with blood, water and mud.

"Where did you find him? Do people still need help?" Jenny asked, concern evident in her voice.

"He was hiding out in an old storage building near the eastern gate. There was another woman, Rachel Ja... I can't recall her last name. I saw a missing person poster of her."

"Jarrus, her brother has been desperately searching for her. He'll be devastated," Jenny lamented.

"Yes, we've crossed paths. There was a man and another woman who were tied up, but I managed to free them. I presume they escaped before Team Rocket arrived," Seth explained.

"I have some messages to send out. Can you come by tomorrow morning to collect the payment?"

"Sure, 7,000, right?"

"Yes, I'll have it ready for you."

"See you tomorrow. Just a word of warning, he was a cannibal, be prepared when you clean up the scene. Primeape, return," Seth called, and the Pokémon vanished. He waved a farewell to Jenny and made his way back to the hotel.

VI

​

The door creaked open, allowing a stream of light to pierce through the darkness of the hotel room. Seth noticed Vulpix standing protectively over the still unconscious Erin, its teeth and golden fur glimmering faintly. "It's just me, Vulpix," Seth reassured, though his attention was fixed on his son. Ignoring Vulpix's inquisitive prancing, clearly wanting to know what happened, Seth collapsed onto the bed next to his son and let out a frustrated sigh, "Mother fuck." Taking a moment to compose himself, Seth stood up and caught a whiff of his shirt. "Yep, pee," he muttered. He gently lifted the groggy Erin and carried him to the bathroom, where he proceeded to change both of them into their last set of clean clothes. Erin, barely conscious, clung to his father as they made their way to a makeshift bed on the floor.

"I love you, mommy," Erin mumbled in his sleep.

Seth smiled at his sleeping son, brushing a hand through his hair. "She loves you too, buddy." Exhausted, they both drifted off to sleep, with Erin in Seth's arms, safe.

VII​

The rain persisted as Seth and Erin approached the City Watch building. Erin rode on Torterra, trying to seek shelter under the small tree on its back. However, they were greeted by a swarm of people gathered on the steps. Seth called out to Erin, "Get off Torterra, we need to go in quickly. Hold my hand, it's crowded here." Erin looked wide-eyed, fascinated by the bustling crowd. "Daddy, what's going on?"

"We just have to make a quick stop inside," Seth replied. They entered the building, where Jenny was frantically running around like mad. A group had formed around the bloodstain on the floor. As Seth made his way through the commotion towards the desk, the discussions about the Pewter City Brute's brutality filled the air. Everyone seemed to be discussing his death or who was responsible. Jenny finally noticed Seth and motioned for him to come to the back room.

"Are you okay?" Seth asked.

"Yeah, it's been just me in this office for years, and I've never really had anything like this," Jenny replied.

"Did you manage to clean up the storage building?" Seth inquired.

"Sorta. I sent letters to the families of the known victims, informing them of where their loved ones were. It turned out to be a mistake on my part. I thought it would stay within the families, but now the whole city knows. They went to the building to recover their loved ones, but Team Rocket and half the damn city showed up shortly after."

"Fuck, you had them go there personally? I told you how messed up it was."

"What do you expect from me? I'm the only one here in the entire city. Brock is never out of his gym, or let's be honest, his women and girls long enough to help. And Team Rocket thwarts any effort I make to actually police the city," Jenny responded with frustration.

"Alright, alright, pull back. I didn't mean to offend you," Seth said, recognizing her difficult situation. Erin sat on the couch in the office, gently stroking Vulpix as Jenny began counting the money and placing it on the desk. "By the way, what happened to the other guy who was trapped there?" He asked.

"Brian Jarrus took him to the hospital. He's alive, thanks to you." She pushed the money towards Seth who set his backpack down to secure the payment.

"Thank you. I hope your day gets easier. Come on, Erin."

Erin enthusiastically jumped off the couch. "Let's go!" he yelled.

Walking out of the lobby, Seth noticed Brian sitting on a bench near the door, his gaze fixed on the floor. There was an emptiness in his eyes, as if all emotions had been drained from him, leaving behind nothing. Seth approached him and took a seat beside him.

"I'm going back to the campsite with Emily. Do you want to come with us?" Seth asked. He didn't know if this change of heart was from pity, or empathy but most likely mutual understanding.

Brian simply nodded, his silence speaking volumes. Seth continued, "Do you need anything from your house?"

Again, Brian nodded, his gaze still fixed on the floor. "We don't plan on coming back here. Does that change anything for you?"

Brian shook his head as if to fight back tears.

"Meet us at the camp when you can. We'll probably be heading out tomorrow," Brian remained fixated on that spot on the floor, seemingly lost in his thoughts.

Seth stood up, called for Vulpix and Erin, and made his way through the crowd of people, exiting the building. The rain continued to fall almost in solidarity.

VIII

​

"Oh, Vulpix, thank fucking goodness! I couldn't get this fire to start for the life of me," Emily exclaimed in relief as the group approached. What had taken Emily two frustrating hours, Vulpix managed to fix in a mere two seconds. "I really need a fire-type Pokémon."

"Emily!" Erin called out, running towards her and embracing her lovingly.

"Hey, little man," she started to run her hand through his hair. "Lairon needs a good workout. Want to go play with him?"

"Okay, sure!" Erin responded eagerly, his eyes lighting up. He began running off. "Does Arcibax want to play too?"

"Um..." Emily stumbled on how to approach the situation.

"Oh, Erin, I forgot to show you!" Seth released Primeape, who now loomed over Erin.

"Mankey?" Erin exclaimed excitedly.

"Primeape now, buddy," Seth clarified.

"He's beautiful!" Erin emphasized. Primeape began to jump up and down from the compliment. The Pokémon and Erin started having playful battles in the nearby field, giving Emily and Seth a moment alone.

"Thank you for that," Emily said gratefully. "I just finished burying him."

"No problem. I'm also at a loss on how to explain Staravia," Seth admitted. "You okay?" Seth asked, concerned about Emily's well-being.

"I mean, no."

"Right, stupid question," Seth admitted. "Oh, I ran into Brian. I think he's going to travel with me."

"I've been meaning to ask you about that," Emily said, her tone shifting. Seth's ears perked up, and he looked intently at Emily, sensing there was more to her words. "I want to come with you guys. I'm really tired of living alone, and I really want to see you get Erin out of here. He's such a funny kid. I just want to be part of something good, you know. It's like for so long I could feel the water reach around my neck. But, I don't know if it's like I'm not about to drown anymore."

"Emily, I can't risk Team Rocket's wrath."

"What are you trying to say, Seth?"

"Coming with us means giving up on revenge. It means giving up on Devin," hr clarified.

She stood up, anger flowing out of her. "He is right fucking there!" Emily exclaimed, pointing towards the direction of Pewter City.

"And Erin is right here. What would happen if they tracked you back here?" Seth countered.

"Bullshit! What if the man who killed your wife was in that city?" Emily retorted, her emotions running high.

"Calm your fucking voice down!" Seth snapped, his own frustration showing while looking to make sure Erin didn't hear. "I don't know what I would do. I know it's not fair, but I have to think about what's best for him."

"Fuck you," Emily uttered, hurt and anger evident in her voice. She turned away and walked off, disappearing into the distance.

IX

​

Emily sat by the creek, her feet immersed in the cool water. Tears streamed down her face, her emotions overwhelming her. "I'm so sorry," she pleaded, her voice filled with anguish, speaking into the emptiness. "I was just so fucking scared." She clutched her knees tightly, trying to find solace in the embrace of her own arms.

"Fuck!" Emily screamed, releasing the pent-up frustration and pain that had consumed her. In that moment, she realized her answer. She couldn't save her sister Heather from him, from the endless nights of abuse, from his Mightyena that tore her apart. But she could save Erin. She could be there for him, protect him, and help him escape and to finally be able to just let a kid, be a kid.

A gentle ripple disrupted the water's surface. A Vaporeon emerged, its sleek body glistening with droplets of water. It approached Emily and sat down beside her, its presence bringing a sense of calm. Emily reached out and began to stroke the Vaporeon's head. Its fins vibrated soothingly.

"Thanks, Vaporeon," she whispered. She rose to her feet, ready to walk back to camp. To her surprise, the Vaporeon followed closely behind, its graceful movements mirroring her steps. It seemed to understand her need for support and was willing to stay by her side.

X

​

Night was descending upon the camp as Emily made her way back. The scent of something delicious wafted through the air, filling her senses. Brian stood by the campfire, tending to a stew that seemed far more appetizing than their usual meals cooked over an open flame. However, his demeanor had changed drastically. Once surprisingly bubbly for such a muscular guy, he now appeared distant and detached.

Seth observed the change that followed her, "That's new."

"Fuck you," Emily snapped. Seth immediately averted his gaze. Brian continued tending to the stew without saying a word. Breaking the tense silence, Emily asked, "We leave tomorrow, right?"

Seth looked back at her with a genuine smile on his face. "Yeah," he replied.

"Okay, and fuck off," she said finally before retiring to her tent. Vaporeon now laying in front of the open flap.

"Fuck off daddy," Erin said mischievously.

"Alright, I might have made a mistake," Seth said to himself. To his delight he noticed Brian finally cracked a smile. Through so much in the past month Seth finally felt, not happy but optimistic or the community growing around him.

 

[Sarnick18]

Iridescent​

When you were standing in the wake of devastation

When you were waiting on the edge of the unknown

And with the cataclysm raining down

Insides crying, "Save me now"

You were there, impossibly alone ​

- Linkin Park ​

I​

Seth Conklin sat across the street from his house in front of the "Golden Tails Diner," his eyes fixed on two military men who made their way into his house. His gaze was filled with concern, tears streaming down his young face as he clutched his knees tightly. He had heard the stories and rumors that circulated about the looming shadow of the Great War. Kids' parents being called away from their homes, forced to face the battlefield. His father, Edward, had mentioned the possibility of that to him.

One of the army men stood tall, donning his military fatigues with precision. His black glasses shielded his eyes, making it difficult to discern the emotions hidden behind them. He had a muscular physique His spiky, blonde hair stood in stark contrast to the seriousness etched on his face. Beside him, the other army man exuded a different energy. He was older, weathered by the weight of his experiences. His uniform bore the signs of wear and tear. Despite the fatigue that lingered in his gaze, there was a steadfast determination that burned deep within him.

"George, what's on the menu tonight?" a loud voice boomed, drawing Seth's attention to the entrance of the diner.

George, a friendly black man, leaned against the doorframe, a warm smile on his face as he replied, "The wife is making Seared Farfetch'd with Leeks."

Another man, almost twice as large as George and that is to say something, responded, "Oh, thank God your wife is cooking. That means it will be edible!"

The words brought laughter and lightness to the atmosphere, causing Seth's tears to momentarily subside. George joined in the laughter, his genuine joy shining through as he held up a middle finger.

George sat beside Seth. The minutes stretched out, carrying a sense of heaviness that seemed to linger. Finally, George broke the silence with a solemn tone. "I imagine they're coming here next," he said, his words carrying a weight of uncertainty. Seth looked at George, searching for reassurance. "Your dad is one of the toughest bastards I have ever met," George continued, his voice filled with conviction. "Plus, he has that Rhydon of his. He will be just fine." Seth remained silent, his gaze fixed on the closed front door of his home, lost in his own thoughts. "How is your mom?"

"It's getting worse," Seth replied. "The doctors can't figure it out. Dad has been getting really annoyed with all the doctors." He sighed deeply. "Why does my dad have to go? Who gives a fuck about Johto?"

"You know your mom wouldn't want to hear you say that," he said gently, his voice filled with compassion.

"I don't care," Seth muttered.

"Seth, I wish I could say that you would understand when you're older, but truth be told, I don't fully get it myself,"

"Then why go? Dad already said if they come, he is leaving."

George paused, contemplating his response. "Well, for one thing, we really don't have a whole lot of choice in the matter," he explained. "But secondly, he is doing it for you. He wants you safe, and he doesn't know how he can protect his son if we lose this war."

"Protecting me would mean he would stay here. Why is there even a war?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine curiosity.

"Because a bunch of old farts decided, I guess. I don’t think we will ever know the real reason."

"I still don't get why my dad has to go," Seth murmured, his voice filled with a mix of sadness and frustration.

"I know, and I wish I had an answer," George said, his gaze filled with empathy. "But here's a deal I'll make with you. If I end up leaving, you'll look after Sarah for me and make sure she stays out of trouble, yeah? And if you do, I'll give you and your mom free food every day."

"And if you don't leave?" he asked cautiously.

George smiled warmly. "Well, how about I just give you the food anyway. But you still watch after Sarah. She's a little nutty, that one."

The street buzzed with activity, the sounds of conversations and Pokémon mingling in the air, creating a backdrop of comforting noise. But within Seth, a storm of emotions raged, threatening to consume him. Tears welled up once again, silently streaming down his face as he futilely tried to wipe them away before George noticed. George, clearly seeing, broke the silence. "Hey, do me a favor. Sarah is around back in her spot. Do you and that Mankey of yours mind going to play with her?" His voice held a gentle warmth, a genuine attempt to bring a moment of joy to Seth's troubled heart.

Seth nodded, a mix of gratitude and sadness in his eyes. Releasing Mankey from his Pokéball, the energetic Pokémon leaped onto Seth's shoulders. Seth mustered a small smile and softly said, "Thank you, Mr. Erikson."

"No problem at all," George replied with a kind smile. "Now go on, You're scaring my customers away."

The corner of Seth's lips curled up a bit more, appreciating George's attempt to lighten the mood. With Mankey at his side, he opened the side door gate and together they ventured around the back of the diner, leaving the bustling street behind.

As Seth and Mankey made their way to the backyard, they were greeted by a picturesque scene that overlooked the vibrant city of Cerulean.

At the far end of the yard, a magnificent tree stood tall, its branches stretching outwards like open arms, providing shade and shelter. Its foliage, lush and verdant, created a natural canopy that filtered the sunlight, casting a gentle play of light and shadow upon the ground.

The yard sloped gently downward, revealing a breathtaking view of Cerulean City below. From this vantage point, the city's colorful rooftops and bustling streets spread out before Seth. The azure waters of the river that flowed through the city sparkled under the golden rays of the sun, reflecting its brilliance with every ripple.

Beneath the tree's shade, a resplendent Ninetales rested gracefully on the lush green grass. Its pristine coat shimmered with an otherworldly glow. Nine long tails with fire red tips cascaded elegantly around its form.

Seth gazed upwards and spotted Sarah perched high in the tree. "Vulpix, use Sky Drop!" she exclaimed. In an instant, Vulpix soared out of the branches, a brilliant streak of golden fur, and landed on the serene Ninetales below. Unfazed by the impact, the Ninetales simply yawned, displaying a nonchalant demeanor.

"Sarah, Vulpix can't learn Sky Drop," Seth interjected.

Sarah swiftly turned around, undeterred, and leaped down from the tree without a hint of fear or hesitation. Sarah, a vibrant 10-year-old girl, came charging at Seth and Mankey. Seth couldn't help but noticed how she possessed an exuberant spirit that radiated from her every pore. Her luscious afro spilling over both sides of her face bounced around freely as she ran. Her dark skin carried a radiant glow, almost iridescent, as if her skin color changed emitting its own unique warmth.

But it was her smile that truly captivated hearts. With a joyful grin that stretched from ear to ear, she had the power to brighten even the gloomiest of days. Her hazel eyes sparkled with a mischievous glimmer.

"Seth! What's up? Let's have a battle! Mankey, are you up for it?" she exclaimed, brimming with excitement.

“It was like even as kids just being around her just made all my issues not disappear but put in the back of my mind. Her nature was just so loud and fun that being sad or angry just wasn’t possible.” Seth explained.

"That is really cool you got to grow up with your wife," Brian remarked, sitting across from Seth by the campfire.

Seth held Erin asleep close to him, the weight creating a comforting presence. "It's messed up, you know? I'm starting to forget that warmth of hers. It's being replaced by that damn ghost," Seth confided.

Emily, sitting nearby, chimed in with concern. "So you are still seeing her then."

"Every damn second of every day," Seth replied. "Since Pewter City, she hasn't said anything, but she never really leaves me." The crackling of the campfire and the distant sounds of nocturnal Pokémon added a serene symphony to the night.

Curiosity tugged on Brian's thoughts. "What happened to her dad?"

"He died under Mt. Silver, just like my dad, Emily's dad and all the others." Seth replied, his voice tinged with sadness and a hint of bitterness. "Did your dad fight?" Seth asked.

"No, he was a good-for-nothing junkie. They saw that immediately and recruited my mom instead," Brian replied. "Taking one from each household was messed up. My mom didn't even have a Pokémon; they just gave her a low-level one they caught and trained it for five minutes before shipping her off," Brian explained further, clear anger still present.

Emily stood up in front of the dwindling fire. "Guys, we have a lot of miles to cover before we reach Celadon City. Let's get some rest."

The night swallowed them whole. Seth, Erin, and Vulpix huddled inside the tent. There was an eerie blackness in the sky. As if all the stars were silenced. Pitch black except for the faint glow on Sarah's lifeless face, haunting Seth from across the camp in the dim light of the dying embers.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 7​

Hartsick​

This is who we are

We are children of the fire and we will always burn

Burn so bright, lead you through the darkest nights

Just so you'll know you're never alone ​

- Our Hollow, Our Home ​

I​

"Vulpix, dodge and retaliate!" Seth screamed at the top of his lungs. Vulpix dashed to the side as Tangrowth's Power Whip caused its vines to come crashing down with tremendous force. She countered with Fire Blast. The flames erupted from her mouth, forming a massive fireball for a moment over her head that crackled with intense heat. The projectile soared through the air, leaving a trail of scorching embers in its wake. Tangrowth, too slow to avoid, braced itself for the sudden onslaught. The fireball crashed into its tangled vines, engulfing them in a raging inferno. The searing heat caused its vines to writhe and thrash in pain, filling the air with an acrid smell. A deep, guttural growl erupted from Tangrowth, echoing through the battlefield. As the battle-weary field burned, water suddenly began to rain down from the fire extinguishing system overhead. The flames that engulfed Tangrowth diminished and disappeared. The cool droplets fell upon its charred body, providing relief and soothing the scorched earth.

A scarlet light appeared around the Pokémon, obscuring it from view until it vanished completely. Erika, her brittle black hair framing her face, looked visibly drained, as if she was slowly fading away from life. She leaned over her Gloom, her trembling hands clutching it tightly, and huffed once more, seeking solace in its intoxicating fumes. “Fuck,” she remarked quietly, slowly lifting her head away from it.

Erika handed six Pokéballs to her strung-out looking assistant, the three she had used in her battle against Seth and the additional three from her previous encounter with Brian.

Her voice a hushed, erratic whisper, "Take... take these... to the Pokémon Center..." Her words stumbled out, punctuated by nervous twitches. The assistant, seemingly in a daze, simply nodded and hurried off. Erika, then collected a bit of honey-drool falling from Gloom with her finger, caking it onto her gums. Brian leaned in and whispered to Seth, "She's completely out of her gourd."

They walked towards Erika's side of the battlefield, their steps crunching on the smoldering ground. As Seth approached Erika, getting closer to her, he could see the toll that constant narcotic use had taken on her. Her eyes were dull and bloodshot, with dark circles encasing them. Her complexion was pale and sallow, with a gauntness to her cheeks that spoke of malnourishment. Her hands trembled slightly as she reached out to adjust her disheveled hair, strands falling out and revealing patches of scalp. It was clear that her addiction had ravaged her physical and mental well-being, leaving her a mere shadow of her former self.

Erika stretched her trembling hand out towards Seth and Brian, her eyes unfocused and distant. She mumbled something unintelligible, her words slurred and barely coherent. With a weak smile, she placed the rainbow badges in their hands, "C-congratulations, t-take these... you've earned them..." Her words trailed off, lost in the haze of her drug-induced state, as she withdrew her hand and stared blankly into the distance.

They both accepted the badges and started making their way out of the gym. "Well, that was a breeze," Brian chuckled.

"Yeah, she was barely conscious during the battle." Seth commented, “Maybe the others' fights will be that easy.”

"Sabrina," Brian said simply

"Yeah, I understand," Seth replied.

"Misty," Brian continued.

"Okay, I get it," Seth said, his frustration growing.

"Lt. Surge, the war hero," Brian added, driving his point home.

"I get it, Brian. We're fucked. Thank you," Seth said, in a pissed off tone.

“Yeah, no problem dude.” He said with a side smile.

"Why even do this League Challenge with me?" Seth asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.

"If I'm going to be traveling around with you guys while you take on the gyms, I might as well join in. There's nothing left for me in Pewter City or Kanto for that matter. I've already faced Brock years ago, so it just makes sense. Honestly, I would love to leave this forsaken country if I had the chance," Brian explained, his tone filled with a hint of longing.

"Yeah, no I get it," Seth responded.

Leaving the gym, Seth and Brian stepped out into the bright sunlight that illuminated the entire city, momentarily dazzling their eyes. As they adjusted to the brightness, their gaze fell upon a tall building across the street from the gym. Its windows shimmered and reflected the light in an intriguing manner.

"Is that an Absol?" Brian pointed towards the top of the building. Seth followed his gaze and spotted the unmistakable white and black fur of Absol standing atop the rooftop, its horn punctuating the skyline. It seemed to be observing them, its piercing eyes locked onto their presence. And just as quickly as it had appeared, the Absol vanished from behind the rooftop. "Well, that's probably not great.”

II​

As Seth and the others walked through the streets of Celadon City, a sense of beauty enveloped the surroundings. The city struck a perfect harmony between its urban infrastructure and vibrant natural flora. He found himself reluctantly enjoying the peacefulness of the city, secretly understanding why some enjoyed living within the confines of Team Rocket's city walls. Apart from the haunting image of Sarah in a distant building window, the sight of children joyfully playing with their Pokémon under the watchful eyes of their parents brought a hint of catharsis.

"Do you miss the pleasantness inside the city?" Seth asked Brian as they strolled through the streets of Celadon.

"I don't know," Brian replied, running his hand through his black hair. "It was nice not having to worry about scraping together enough for yearly taxes, and well-paying jobs were readily available. Honestly, I didn’t think the tax system was such a burden till I met you."

"It must be nice," Seth sighed. "Anyone living outside the city when Team Rocket took over was prohibited from buying or even renting property."

"I won't deny there were perks," Brian admitted, his voice tinged with a hint of bitterness. "But I couldn't help feeling jealous of the kids today. My mother was taken from me to fight in that war, and with a junkie father, it was just me and Rachel for the longest time. Seeing those happy children just pissed me off because we were never given that chance. The chance to just be kids."

Seth nodded, a shared understanding passing between them. Despite having the opportunity to live with Sarah and her mother, he couldn't shake the pain of not being able to experience the joy of his own family growing up.

A deafening boom rocked through the city, capturing the attention of everyone including Seth and Brian. Eyes turned towards the eastern part of Celadon, where the top of a plume of fire, lifted above the rooftops. Children playing froze, their gazes drawn upward, while parents abandoned their watchful eyes on their little ones and instead scanned the sky in confusion. Pedestrians and their Pokémon alike shifted their focus, creating a momentary silence that enveloped the city before panic erupted.

The black smoke that filled the sky was almost like the alarm to ignite the panic. In the chaos, the entire crowd surged westward, leaving everything of unimportance behind. Yet, Brian defied the stampede, charging towards the smoke, the sound, the fire. "Brian, what the fuck, where are you going?" Seth's desperate call was drowned out by the roar of screams and shouts. "for fuck sake," Seth muttered to himself, as he raced after Brian, desperately fighting through the flood of people to catch up.

Finally catching up to him, Seth's heart sank as they witnessed the source of the explosion. The left section of Celadon Casino had vanished, replaced by a raging inferno and billowing smoke. Panic-stricken individuals streamed out of the front door, some of their bodies covered in flames while dropping and rolling, fighting for survival.

"Brian, we have to go, come on," Seth pleaded, his voice filled with urgency.

"You can be a selfish prick, Seth.” Brian's words stung, his anger and hurt evident, as he glared back at Brian. "If Erin were in there, you wouldn't hesitate. These people are just as important and the world doesn't revolve around you. I won't stand by and let people die when I can help."

Brian turned away from him and sprinted towards the casino. Seth stood there, torn between his own selfishness and the realization that Brian was right. "Selfish, fucking prick," Seth muttered to Vulpix but more to himself, resentment mingling with acceptance. “Brian!” he called out before chasing after him.

III​

As Seth and Brian reached the casino, they were met with a horrifying sight—a woman scorched from head to waist, her lower body, what was left, completely obliterated. Seth's words escaped him in shock, "She was blown straight out of the building."

Brian's response was curt, "Yeah, come on."

Feeling the intense heat, Seth released Torterra from its Pokéball. The massive Pokémon immediately retreated, resenting the temperature from the scorching flames. Seth quickly gave his command, "Torterra, gather as much dirt as possible and try to extinguish this fire."

With a nod of understanding, Torterra moved towards the left side of the building. It raised its front feet and brought them crashing down on the ground, causing the earth to rise like a wave and settle within the inferno, attempting to smother the flames.

"Flapple, you ready to help?" Brian addressed his Pokémon perched on his shoulder. He reached for his belt and released the remaining Pokéballs. As he did, a vibrant red light illuminated the ground before him. Two Pokémon materialized; Ceruledge stood tall, her body covered in sleek, purple metallic armor that seemed to suck in the sunlight. Her sharp, piercing eyes stared at the fire erupting from the building. Fraxure, on the other hand, appeared fierce and rugged. His scales were a deep shade of green, and its powerful jaws exuded a sense of strength. The sharp, protruding tusks on its cheeks added an intimidating edge to its appearance. Seth followed suit, releasing Primeape. He clenched his fists together, his eyes fixated on the burning building across the street.

As everyone stepped into the burning Casino, the intense heat washed over them, causing sweat to bead on Seth and Brians’ foreheads. The walls and ceiling were charred and crumbling, with smoke rising to the tall ceiling and escaping from the giant hole in the left side of the giant room. The once vibrant and lively atmosphere had been replaced by an unsettling silence, broken only by the crackling of fire and the occasional creaking of the weakened structure. The inferno danced hungrily, devouring anything in their path, including the once gleaming slot machines, poker tables, and roulette wheels, now reduced to twisted metal and melted plastic. Among the wreckage, the sight of lifeless bodies, their clothes singed and their limbs contorted, painted a grim picture.

Screams of anguish and desperation filled the air, drawing Seth and Brian towards the source of the noise. Amidst the wreckage, they discovered a woman trapped beneath a collapsed slot machine. Her disheveled hair was singed and her face bore the scars of the intense heat, with blisters forming around her damaged eye. Seth, struggling to speak through coughs and smoke inhalation, called upon Primeape for assistance. He lifted the heavy machine, allowing Seth and Brian to carefully extricate the injured woman. "Take her outside, come back… when you're done," Seth instructed, and Primeape swiftly carried her away to safety.

Seth's voice strained through coughs as he spoke to Brian, "We can't stay here much longer, Brian. The smoke's being funneled out, but we're still at risk of carbon monoxide.”

“Okay, let's check back here, I think I see something." Brian responded.

Seth and Brian examined the back wall of the casino near the service desk, their attention was drawn to a charred poster. Just above it, where the full poster used to be, they noticed a green button. To their right, a seemingly endless hallway beckoned. Before they could venture further, Primeape returned to the group, moving cautiously to avoid the thick smoke.

They cautiously made their way down the dark hallway, the only source of illumination coming from the fire of the main gambling room. The hallway stretched ahead, devoid of any decorations or purpose. It seemed like a forgotten passage, leading to nowhere in particular. An acrid scent of burnt debris hung heavily in the air.

It led them to a staircase concealed beneath a previously trapped door, now flung open. "Shit, look at this, Seth," Brian called out. At the top of the stairs lay a gruesome sight—a dismembered Team Rocket member dressed in black, his arm ripped off just below the shoulder. Fresh, deep scratches marred his face, oozing with blood that pooled on the steps beneath him.

Seth approached, his eyes fixed on the gruesome sight before them. "Damn, I wish I could have watched it.”

“No dumbass,” Brian responded. “No burns, he was ripped apart by something. Also, there isn't any smoke coming from down there."

"Let's check out that staircase. If we don't find anything, we need to get the hell out of here. Agreed?"

“Yeah, Sounds good.” They descended the blood-stained steps and into the staircase a red light constantly flashing with an even louder alarm ringing than was in the Casino’s main room.

IV​

The staircase wound down several flights, revealing a horrifying sight with each step. The lifeless bodies of Team Rocket members and their Pokémon lay scattered, their forms contorted in unimaginable ways. Blood stained the walls, and the air was heavy with the metallic scent of violence. They weren’t just killed, they were destroyed. From scorch marks to, some being severed in half, an Armaldo had its arms completely ripped from its body, Sarah's ravaged corpse, one team rocket member seemed like every body part on her was simply bent in half, as if she was trying to violently fold into a ball.

Pressing forward, guided by the eerie purple flames of Ceruledge, they finally reached the bottom floor, only to be greeted by a desolate hallway. As they moved forward, the blaring alarms abruptly ceased, plunging them into an unsettling silence, punctuated only by the intermittent flashes of dim red emergency lights.

"Brian, what's the plan here?" Seth asked, his voice filled with concern. Brian, ignoring Seth's questions, opened a door to their left and stepped inside, followed by Ceruledge and Fraxure. Reluctantly, Seth, Primeape, and Vulpix followed suit, entering a corridor that extended for about 50 yards. Immediately, their eyes were drawn to the glass cages lining both sides of the walkway.

"What are you looking at?" Seth asked. Brian stood frozen, his gaze fixed on a cage to his left. "Brian!" Seth called out, trying to break his friend's trance. Inside the cage laid a pink, amorphous blob with a face, constantly shifting and morphing into unrecognizable shapes. "What the actual fuck is this?" Seth exclaimed, his disbelief evident.

A sign next to the cage revealed its identity: Specimen 89, aka Ditto . As if sensing the nearby Flapple perched on Brian's shoulder, the Ditto transformed into an exact replica of Flapple who began flying around the cage. Brian was transfixed on what unfolded before him and simply let out a “Fuck me,” under his breath.

Proceeding down the corridor, they passed by the successive cages housing Dittos, each displaying their transformative abilities. Different Dittos shifted and morphed, mimicking the forms of Primeape, Vulpix, Flapple, Ceruledge, or Fraxure as they continued towards the back of the room. Those that didn't change had their fluid bodies constantly in flux. Most of the Dittos were pink, except one which was blue, but all wore a seemingly happy expression for such a dark and dismal setting.

At the end of the corridor, a desk in front of a slightly larger cage had an envelope with, Fuji Project, written across it. The glass cage behind the desk stood prominently, its presence both captivating and unsettling. Suspended from the ceiling two sturdy metallic prongs, reached down with a sense of purpose. Arcs of mesmerizing blue electricity crackled and danced between them, casting an ethereal glow on the surroundings. The cage contained what the sign labeled " Test Subject: Mew, " floating gracefully within. Its petite form exuded an ethereal aura. Its body was small, covered in smooth, pale pink fur that seemed to emit a gentle presence. The large, round eyes of Mew sparkled. Two short, stubby arms extended, each ending with small, dexterous paws. Its slender long tail swayed gently.

"We can't leave them here, Seth," Brian said with determination in his voice.

Seth nodded in agreement, “No we can’t.”

"Ceruledge, use a bitter blade to cut an opening in Mew's glass cage," Brian commanded. Ceruledge extended its purple blade-like arm, swiftly slicing a circle in the glass, causing it to fall and shatter onto the ground. Mew emerged from its confinement, emitting a soft purring sound as it floated around the group, expressing its gratitude.

"I'm completely baffled by all of this," Seth confessed. "Let's focus on freeing the Dittos and then make our way out of here."

Primeape began forcefully smashing the glass walls of the cages, while Ceruledge and Fraxure carefully used their blades to cut through the remaining enclosures. As the cages were opened, the Dittos flooded the corridor, fluxing their bodies under the floating Mew.

As Seth and Brian watched in astonishment, the Dittos in the room commenced a mesmerizing transformation. Their fluid forms melded and shifted with remarkable synchronicity, converging into solid mass. Within moments, the sea of Dittos had morphed into an ocean of Mews. The multitude of Mews floated gently in the air, their pink bodies shimmering with an otherworldly radiance. The soft purr of their collective energy filled the space.

Amidst the congregation of Mews, the original Mew, or what Seth assumed was the original, hovered gracefully above the rest. Then, without warning, the Mew vanished from sight.

The remaining Mews, as if guided by an unseen force, turned their attention towards Seth and Brian. Their large, luminous eyes locked onto the two observers. And just as swiftly as they had transformed, the sea of Mews vanished into nothingness, leaving the room empty with the exception of the shocked and flabbergasted expressions of the group.

“What… what… the fuck?” Seth stuttered out.

“I don’t even know where to begin.” Brain retorted as they walked towards the room's entrance.

With all the Dittos and Mew freed, only one remained, Specimen 89, positioned still in its cage, its form shifting between each Pokémon in the group, a content smile adorning its face after each transformation. "Should we catch it?" Brian asked, uncertainty lacing his words.

Seth pondered for a moment before replying, "I suppose so." He tossed a Pokéball towards the Ditto, and as the ball shook three times before becoming still. "What a bizarre day."

V​

As Seth and Brian along with their Pokémon, stepped out of the door, they were confronted by a Team Rocket member, a woman with fiery red hair cascading down her shoulders. She wore the signature black uniform adorned with the iconic "R" logo. Her piercing blue eyes glared at them with fury.

Standing beside her was a menacing Houndoom, its eyes glowing with an intense red glare as it growled menacingly, its sharp fangs bared. The woman's voice sharp as she addressed Seth and Brian, "What were you doing in there? What have you done?"

Without hesitation, Brian’s commanding voice roared, "Fraxure, use Dragon Claw!" With a burst of speed, Fraxure charged towards the Houndoom, jabbing his tusk into its side, sending the Houndoom crashing into the nearby wall.

The injured Houndoom struggled to regain its footing, blood oozing from its wounds, and retaliated by unleashing a searing Flamethrower attack. Sensing the imminent danger, Seth commanded his Vulpix, "use Flamethrower!" Flames erupted from Vulpix's mouth, meeting the incoming fire, neutralizing the Houndoom's assault in a display of fiery clash.

Meanwhile, Brian's Flapple took action, unleashing a corrosive Acid Spray towards the now fixed in position Houndoom. The purple toxic sludge struck the injured Pokémon directly in the eyes, causing it to shut off its flames and howl in agony as its head and eyes disintegrated before them. Its screams filled the hallway as it flailed in pain.

Seizing the opportunity, Ceruledge, guided by Brian's command, darted towards the Team Rocket member. With a swift, precise strike, Ceruledge's bitter blade sliced through the woman's body, cleaving her in half. Her anguished screams mixed with the scent of burning fabric as her clothes caught fire from the searing hot blade.

The hallway now lay silent for a few moments. Then flames abruptly engulfed the other side of the hallway, casting an intense glow that illuminated the entire floor. Seth couldn't help but express his frustration. "Oh, for fuck's sake, what now?" he yelled, feeling overwhelmed by the relentless chaos around them.

Suddenly, a Charmeleon emerged from the fiery scene on the other end of the hallway. Seth and Brian watched in awe, as a bright white light began to emanate from the Charmeleon's eyes. Its body began to be encircled by blazing fire. However, the flames vanished, and in their place, two magnificent wings stretched out from its back. Charizard, roaring with a deafening intensity, asserting its dominance over anyone unfortunate enough to be in its path. With a burst of speed, the Charizard took flight, disappearing from view, leaving behind a trail of vibrant orange light that illuminated the other side of the floor.

Just as Seth and Brian tried to comprehend the extraordinary sight they had witnessed, a young boy, not older than sixteen, stepped into view after the Charizard. He wore a red and white cap that partially concealed his brown hair, and a matching red and white jacket that adorned his figure. Walking beside him was an elegant Espeon, its graceful movements mirroring the calm demeanor of its trainer.

"Seth," Brian said, shaking his shoulder to bring him back to reality. "Let's go." They left the devastation of the hideout and the stranger behind.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 8​

The Grey​

And it's getting harder to pretend like I'm okay

When there's this constant reminder being drilled into my brain

I still believe in happiness and I want to find a way

But lately my whole world is being swallowed by the grey

For now there's comfort in the quiet, solitude, and rainy days

I've got my sadness to a science, all I can do is hope for change ​

- Movements ​

I​

Once Seth and Brian emerged through the trap door, they were greeted by a scene of organized chaos. The once-raging fire had significantly reduced in size, thanks to the efforts of Torterra. He stood proudly on top of a massive dirt pile that had flowed into the Casino, alongside a Sandslash, Donphan, Graveler, and Hippowdon. Together, they had created a barrier of earth and rock, containing the flames and preventing further spread.

Amidst the commotion, they could see groups of dedicated Pokémon and citizens diligently working to bring out the injured and attend to the deceased. Completely oblivious to the chaos that has been happening below their feet or the carnage currently unfolding.

Seth and Brian, recalling their Pokémon except for Vulpix and Flapple, surveyed the immense effort being made to control the fire and save lives. Nearby, at a pond situated outside a local's house, a team of Water-type Pokémon led by Blastoise, Quagsire, Milotic, and Tentacruel were shooting towering pillars of water high into the air, creating a cascading rainfall over the Casino.

Trainers equipped with healing Pokémon like Chansey, Audino, and Hatenna were diligently attending to those screaming in pain, their compassionate actions bringing comfort and solace to those in need. Even Erika, seemingly sobered by the catastrophe, stood alongside her a Bellossom, attempting to provide first aid to both people and Pokémon.

"Vulpix, go fetch Torterra for me," Seth commanded.

Brian turned to Seth with a concerned expression. "Should we tell someone about what's happening below the building? What Giovanni is doing."

Seth paused for a moment, rubbing his now well established beard. "Tell them what? Even if we did, Team Rocket is getting annihilated down there by that kid with the Charizard. I don't think we should send anyone else into that chaos. We did…” Just then, Torterra approached with Vulpix on his back. Seth shifted his focus to Torterra and continued, "Let me rephrase, Torterra did a lot to help the people inside. You've been amazing." Torterra beamed with pride, enjoying the affectionate head rubs from his trainer.

“Awsome, Torterra.” Brain said, smacking his shell affectionately.

"We have done all we can," Seth reiterated. "Let's just go back to Erin and Emily. They must have seen the smoke or heard the explosion. I'm sure they're worried about us."

As They made their way out of the city, the colossal tower of smoke rose ominously in the distance. Seth couldn't shake off the thought that lingered in his mind, that kid in the red.

II​

The arrival at the campsite brought a pleasant atmosphere. Emily was engaged in training Vaporeon, as its Aurora Beam coated a nearby tree trunk in a thick layer of ice. Lairon, lying in the stream behind the camp, gleamed under the sun, its metallic body reflecting the bright light. Erin, on the other hand, was occupied with feeding Oran berries to a cheerful Noibat, fluttering around him.

A smile grew across Seth watching his son, being reminded of the similarities between him and his mother. He approached Emily, "What's that all about?" he inquired.

Emily turned around, vexation clearly labeled on her face. "I have no idea," she replied. "He gave that damn Noibat an Oran berry this morning, and now this little fucker won't leave us alone. I didn't even know Noibats stayed active during the day."

Erin ran toward his father, Noibat trailing closely behind. "Daddy!" he exclaimed, reaching out for a hug. "How did the Gym battle go? Did you win?"

“Yupp.” Seth proudly displayed the Rainbow Badge.

"Whoa, that's so cool!" Erin exclaimed, eagerly taking hold of the badge.

Emily, devierting Seth’s attention, "What happened? We heard a loud bang and saw the smoke from the city."

Brian chimed in, "That's a long story. Show her, Seth." With a release from the Pokéball, Ditto emerged, its amorphous form eliciting a wide grin. It fixed its gaze on Emily, its eyes expressing a blank yet joyful stare.

“What the fuck is that?” Emily's yelled bewilder. While Erin started poking it with his finger. Her stunned expression turned to shock as she witnessed Ditto's transformation, assuming the form of Vaporeon behind her. "Fucking shit!" she screamed.

“We have a lot to go over.” Seth said coolly.

III​

Emily sat there, stunned by what Seth and Brian shared. The basement hideout, the Mew Pokémon, and the multitude of Dittos locked up with it—they were all mind-boggling. Yet, what truly astonished her was the presence of the stranger who had attacked Team Rocket. For years, she had dedicated herself to sabotaging Team Rocket, alone. Discovering that there were others equally devoted, ignited a mix of renewed determination and resentment toward Seth for making her stop. She wished he could understand, but a sense of disappointment washed over her because he could never fully comprehend her perspective.

"So, what do we do?" Emily finally spoke up. "Should we try to find the guy who attacked them?"

Seth, in his straightforward manner, responded, "Why would we? My goal hasn't changed. If someone wants to take out Team Rocket members, let them. I'm not willing to risk our lives for that cause."

Brian nodded in agreement, adding, "I see no positive outcome in searching for that kid in the red, assuming he's part of a larger operation. Even if he is, I don't see any benefit in jeopardizing our lives for it." Emily remained silent, her face clearly displaying annoyance and disagreement. However, she chose to withhold her thoughts and dropped the subject.

"Right, Saffron City it is," Brian replied. "I have to admit, I'm still terrified of Sabrina. Rumor has it she took over as the gym leader in Saffron during the war.”

"Isn't she younger than us?" Emily inquired.

"Yeah, that’s what makes me so scared for that challenge," Brian explained.

Seth chimed in, "I'm particularly afraid to face her since Primeape is my strongest, but against her Psychic-type Pokémon, I just don't see how I stand a chance."

"And don't forget, if you lose against her, you have to wait a whole year before you can request a rematch," Brian reminded.

"That's true, and I can't afford to take that risk. The bounty from the Brute helped, but if I could get Erin out before my next tax payment, that would be ideal," Seth admitted, concern for his son evident in his voice.

"Then let's train on our way to Saffron," Emily suggested. "Psychic types rely on sensory manipulation, so training our Pokémon to avoid engaging in sensory-based battles could give us an advantage."

"That's actually a smart approach, does nothing for their telekinesis but one problem at a time," Brian acknowledged.

"Yeah, when Vulpix uses Extrasensory, she needs to make eye contact, but if she does she amplifies her opponent's senses. And afterward, uses flamethrower to exploit the heightened sensitivity.”

"Man, that sounds brutal," Brian remarked, while actively cringing his face.

"Cruel? This guy right here used that exact strategy against me the moment we met," Emily retorted, shooting a pointed glare at Seth.

"You did charge at me with Larion," Seth defended himself.

"Okay, fair point," Emily conceded, a small smirk appearing on her face as the tension eased.

Seth and Brian nodded in agreement to Emily's suggestion. They positioned themselves on opposite sides of the campsite, preparing to train their Pokémon. Brian placed a blindfold over Fraxure's eyes, ensuring that it wouldn't rely on visual cues during the battle. Meanwhile, Seth did the same with Primeape, with Erin eagerly giving commands from his father's shoulders.

Laughter filled the camp as the Pokémon engaged in their friendly spar. The warm summer sun illuminated the scene, casting a golden glow over the group. The black smoke from the earlier incident began to disperse, gradually fading away into the sky. Absol stood at the edge of the tree line, unseen, its gaze fixed upon the group, on Erin.

IV​

The journey to Saffron City took the group through the flat trail of Route seven that wound its way through a dense forest. The trail was well-maintained, with a soft dirt path that was easy on their feet. Towering trees lined both sides of the trail, their branches extending outward to create a lush canopy above, providing ample shade from the warm sun.

The shade cast a cool and soothing ambiance, making the hike comfortable and enjoyable. Sunlight filtered through the gaps in the leafy canopy, creating a dappled effect on the forest floor. The air was filled with the earthy scent of moss, ferns, and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. The woods were alive with Pokémon, both seen and heard. Providing easy meals for the group. With each step, the pleasantness of the wooded trail uplifted their moods and created a sense of anticipation for what lay ahead in Saffron City.

V​

A few days of hiking they settled in a cozy campsite just outside the historically bustling city of Commerce, located on Route seven. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of food sizzling over the crackling fire, their appetizing scent wafting through the serene surroundings. Each member of the group diligently engaged in their training routines.

"Primeape, use Bulldoze followed by Throat Chop!" Seth's voice echoed through the tranquil woods. Primeape's feet pounded the ground with immense force, causing the earth to tremble beneath Ceruledge's feet. The ground split and rose, forcing Ceruledge to leap over and evade the attack. With unwavering focus on Ceruledge's swift movements focusing solely on her feet, Primeape anticipated the night slash and blocked with his steel cufflet. The resounding clash of steel on steel reverberated through the woods. Countering with his free hand his fist aimed a precise strike at Ceruledge's throat, delivering a gentle tap to Ceruledge's neck, showcasing its increasing mastery of the technique.

"Excellent job, Primeape!" Brian cheered, admiration evident in his voice. "You're really getting the hang of it. That was impressive!"

Emily and Vaporeon stood at the center of the open field. With her closed eyes, Vaporeon relied solely on her acute hearing, attuned to the subtlest of sounds around her. Meanwhile, Vulpix moved swiftly and stealthily through the tall grass, her every step calculated to avoid detection.

Vaporeon's ears twitched, capturing a faint rustling sound. In an instant, she unleashed a focused surge of water toward the source of the disturbance, precisely targeting Vulpix's hidden location. As the water surged forward, Vulpix reacted with lightning speed, flames erupting from her mouth. The water collided with the searing flames, creating an explosive burst of steam that engulfed the space between them.

Torterra stood firmly rooted to the ground, its massive form casting a commanding presence. With closed eyes, it relied on its heightened senses, attuned to the vibrations reverberating through the earth. It focused intently, trying to discern the precise location of Lairon within the training field.

After a few moments of concentrated effort, Torterra's connection to the earth guided it with remarkable accuracy. Without opening its eyes, it manipulated a thick root to emerge from the ground, lashing out towards Lairon. The root crushed on top of Lairon's metallic body. Lairon simply shrugged off the attack. The display of defensive strength showcased the formidable training that Lairon had undergone, solidifying its role as a stalwart protector within the team.

Perched upon a low branch of a majestic tree, Erin sat with his legs swinging freely, his curly hair dancing with the gentle breeze. With a mischievous gleam in his eyes, he commanded Noibat to "unleash gust!" As Noibat flapped its wings, a powerful current of air surged towards Fraxure, who effortlessly evaded the attack. However, Fraxure playfully feigned a narrow escape, allowing a hint of excitement to ripple through the young trainer and his new Pokémon.

VI​

Commerce City, towering skyscrapers pierced the heavens, reaching towards the vast expanse of the sky. The intricate network of roads crisscrossed through the urban landscape, creating a labyrinthine web of pathways. Yet, the once bustling city appeared hauntingly abandoned and forlorn. Broken windows marred the facades of the skyscrapers, revealing the emptiness within. The passage of time had worn away the vibrant colors that once adorned the frontages of homes, leaving them dull and lifeless. The roads, once paved, now bore the scars of cracks and fissures. It was a stark contrast between the grandeur of the architecture and the desolation that permeated the streets, leaving an eerie sense of abandonment hanging in the air.

As they ventured further into the city, lost child signs seemed to litter every window and wall of the buildings they passed. "What is this?" Brian asked, picking one of the signs off a wall. The poster depicted an adorable 8-year-old girl with brown pigtails, joyfully riding on the shoulders of a Scizor, both captured in a moment of laughter. The word "Missing" stood out in bold letters, revealing her name as Luna, along with instructions on how to contact her parents. The signs continued to line the road until they reached the city square, where dozens of pictures of missing children were posted on a board at the center of the plaza. "Let's find a place to stay for the night. I don't want Erin out here in the dark," Seth said, concern evident in his voice.

As they walked down the main city street, they were repeatedly met with "No Vacancy" signs, adding to their growing frustration. "How is this possible?" Emily voiced her confusion. "The city seems nearly deserted." Seth, holding Erin in his arms, took the lead, determined to find a place to stay. They arrived at the fifth hotel with a "No Vacancy" sign, and the rest of the group followed suit.

Inside, they were greeted by an elderly woman, her weary appearance reflecting the hardships of the deserted city. "Sorry, folks, we don't have any rooms available," she said apologetically.

Seth pressed, "We want to know why there is no lodging and where we can go."

The woman paused and then responded, "Oh, you guys are passing through, not refugees?"

Confused by choice of words, Emily inquired, "Refugees?"

The woman nodded and explained, "Yes, Gardenia Town, a city north of here, was completely abandoned a few weeks ago. Because Saffron City wouldn't house them, they fled into Commerce."

"Why was the city abandoned?" Brian's asked curiously.

The elderly woman's voice turned somber as she revealed, "A curse plagued the city. Nightmares fell over the town like a cloud, and then the children disappeared one by one."

Erin clung tightly to his father's leg, his gaze averted from the woman's unsettling stare. "Then where is everyone?" he whispered, his voice filled with unease.

The woman's smile, attempting to be pleasant, seemed to carry an underlying sense of darkness. "They are out searching, but they will be back most likely tomorrow," she replied, her tone evoking an eerie vibe.

"Okay, thank you, ma'am. Is there a place we can stay?" Seth asked.

The woman's smile widened as she responded, "There is a shanty town just north of town. Goodbye, dear." She waved at Erin, who clung even tighter to his father, a sense of foreboding creeping over them.

As they reached the northern outskirts of the city, darkness enveloped their surroundings. The moon's feeble light struggled to penetrate through the thick clouds. The shanty town they encountered was even more desolate than the rest of Commerce City. Tattered tents were scattered across the barren field, devoid of any signs of life. The worn-out grass had long lost its vibrancy, trampled by the constant activity it endured. Dimly lit fires cast a somber hue on the faces of the weary inhabitants who watched the group pass by. "We need someone on watch at all times tonight," Seth declared, his voice filled with a sense of caution.

Emily nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning the unsettling surroundings. "No fucking arguments from me. This place is either creepy or just plain depressing," she remarked. The group swiftly set up their tents, a well-rehearsed routine after months of constant use. Erin, already exhausted, curled up against Vulpix's warm body and fell asleep almost instantly.

Gathered around their campfire, Brian posed the question, "So, what's our plan, Seth?"

He sighed, "Based on the map we still have a solid two weeks of walking ahead of us to reach Saffron. I don’t see a city called Gardenia on it, but if it lies on Route seven, I don't see a way around it. The land between Celadon and Saffron is just an expansive forest, and going off the trail might lead us into even more danger or leave us hopelessly lost.

“Yeah I remember the short detour Brian ensured us was legit in Viridian Forest.” Emily said, smirking towards Brian who responded with a proud middle finger.

Seth continued not being distracted by the banter, “Besides, it's been over two months since Sarah, and I only have two badges. At this rate, I won't be able to free Erin of Kanto before I have to pay Team Rocket. We can't afford a detour."

"Hey folks," a short and stubby man with glasses and a receding hairline emerged into the flickering firelight. Two girls, one slightly older than Erin and the other around eight or nine years old, trailed behind him. Seth's face contorted obviously with suspicion.

Emily quickly intervened, dismissing Seth's hostility. "Oh, don't fucking mind him," she said, gesturing for the man to join them.

"Come, sit with us." Brian added while blushing a little.

"Sorry for the eavesdropping but I heard you are headed to Saffron?" the man asked.

“Yeah,” said Seth coldly.

“Sorry my name is Glenn, I got a request at Silph Co. to help them with some sort of project. I am an engineer." Glenn added.

"Hi, girls," Seth finally softened his demeanor, addressing the young newcomers. "What are your names?"

The younger girl, full of energy, exclaimed, "Ava!"

The older girl, more reserved, barely whispered her name, "Charlotte."

"I really need to get to Saffron, but this news of the kidnappings has me terrified to go alone with my girls," Glenn expressed, his face cringing at the thought.

"Yeah, I get that," Seth responded, glancing at his sleeping son inside the tent. "We're heading out tomorrow if you want to tag along."

"That would be wonderful! Thank you," Glenn exclaimed excitedly.

"Do you know anything about what's going on?" Brian inquired.

"Not much. We've only been here for two days. Apparently, about two months ago, everyone in the city started having horrible nightmares every night. Some people left, some stayed, but about three weeks ago, their kids started disappearing. A lot of people are out searching while the rest of their families stay here, but nothing has been found. After that, everyone left in fear," Glenn explained.

"How many kids have gone missing?" Emily asked, her concern evident.

"Accounted for, I think around 28, but it's hard to say with people just passing through," Glenn replied.

"Has Team Rocket been involved at all?" Seth asked, subtly pointing the finger at the likely suspect.

"I haven't seen Team Rocket since I was in Celadon City paying my taxes six months ago. I rarely see them otherwise," Glenn added.

"Daddy, can we go?" Charlotte tugged at her father's sleeve, eager to leave.

"Of course, sweetie. Alright, guys, we'll meet you here in the morning," Glenn confirmed, his voice filled with gratitude.

"Sounds good!" Brian responded, his tone a bit more buoyant than intended.

"Who wants to take the first watch?" Seth inquired, addressing the group as Glenn and his children walked away.

"I gotcha, man. Not really tired," Brian volunteered.

"Thanks, Brian," Emily expressed, tapping his shoulder reassuringly.

Seth lay in his tent, staring at the top, lost in thought. He couldn't believe it. It had been three whole days since he was plagued by Sarah. Every fiber of his being longed to believe that things were finally turning around. But lately his whole world is being swallowed by the grey. It was just so hard to think otherwise.

VII​

The two days of walking with Glenn and his two girls proved to be a refreshing change of pace amidst the looming threat of Gardenia. Watching Erin and Ava play together, their laughter filling the air, brought a much needed sense of joy and normalcy to the group.

Eventually they passed the missing patrons in Commerce City. The sight of the group of grieving parents, family, and friends returning from their fruitless search was truly heart-wrenching. The weariness etched on their faces mirrored the weight of their collective disappointment. As they gathered around Seth, assisting in marking the town on his map, it was evident that their minds were not fully present. It was as if the relentless ordeal had drained them of their vitality and spirit, leaving behind only a shell. The air hung heavy with unspoken sorrow, a silent reminder of the painful reality they all faced.

The sun began to set, the campsite transformed into a lively space. Laughter and conversations filled the air, momentarily pushing back the shadows of despair. Seth and Glenn decided to keep the kids up a little later, savoring the precious moments of innocent joy. Charlotte, though reserved, found solace in their presence, and Seth respected her need for space.

"Alright, guys, I've got the first watch," Brian announced with a playful air of heroism. Seth and Emily chuckled, willingly agreeing to his grandstanding.

"I will stay up with you." Glenn added softly, "Cant really sleep you know."

Seth wrestled with the desire to fall asleep, his mind restless and alert to every sound that filled the night. Hours seemed to drag on, with his thoughts spinning. Meanwhile, Brian and Glenn remained awake, engaging in hushed conversations.

While engaged in their soft conversation, their voices carrying a sense of understanding. In a tender moment, Brian leaned in for a kiss, which Glenn gratefully accepted. Both blushed like smitten teenagers, a stark contrast to Brian's muscular physique that added a touch of endearing innocence to the scene.

Emily couldn't resist, “Get it boy!” Chiming in from her tent. Seth burst into laughter, causing Erin to stir slightly in his sleep.

"Fuck you, Emily," Brian whispered, his amusement blending with a hint of annoyance.

Finally, exhaustion claimed Seth, and he drifted into sleep, finding solace in dreams where he saw Sarah. The real, happy, Sarah.

VIII​

Erin and Ava chased each other gleefully, darting between the trees that lined Route seven. Meanwhile, Charlotte found herself captivated by Vaporeon's presence, playing and interacting with the Pokémon. Although still somewhat reserved, Charlotte had begun opening up to Emily, who cherished the opportunity to bond with another girl, even if she was only eight. Witnessing Erin having a playmate brought a smile to her. Just watching him be allowed his innocence to continue unfettered was amazing.

"So you really don't believe in any violence whatsoever?" she inquired completely floored. Glenn nodded in affirmation. Emily persisted, "What if a Team Rocket member stood before you, ready to harm one of the girls?"

"I would like to think I could talk them out of it, even if that sounds idealistic…" Glenn responded.

"Crazy," Seth interjected.

"What would violence achieve?” He continued. They would just send someone else."

Sensing the tension, Brian intervened, "Alright enough politics."

"Philosophy." Emily said matter of factly.

"Shut up," Brian said, chuckling. "The treeline is ending."

Emerging from the dense treeline, a deserted town loomed before them, its eerie presence sending a chill down their spines and the kids reaching out for their fathers. As Emily glanced at the empty streets and dilapidated houses, memories of her hometown flooded her mind. She couldn't help but draw a comparison between the two. The homes that lined the streets were quaint and well-maintained, exuding an inviting charm. Neighbors would greet each other with smiles and engage in lively conversations on the sidewalks. The air was filled with the pleasant scent of flowers, and children's laughter could be heard echoing through the neighborhood. However, that was a whole war ago.

The current town they encountered was more reflective of that reality. The once-lovely homes now stood as if fading from memory, Their paint peeling and windows shattered. The streets were eerily silent, devoid of any signs of life except for the wweeds and overgrown foliage sprouted through the cracks in the pavement. The atmosphere was heavy with a sense of abandonment, a haunting decay.

"Damn it," he exclaimed, causing Emily to startle. "I didn't think we were reaching Gardenia Town today. We have only been walking for two days. They said it was a three day walk."

Glenn, voicing his uncertainty. "What should we do now?"

Brian, his fingers absentmindedly running through his dark hair, pondered their options. "We only have a few hours of daylight left. We need to make the most of it."

"We'll have to walk fast through the city and cover as much ground as possible before we set up camp," Seth declared lifting Erin onto his shoulders.

Brian turned to Charlotte, attempting to lighten the mood. "Charlotte, do you think you can keep up with a fast pace?" he asked, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

Charlotte, still shy and avoiding direct eye contact, nodded in response.

The walk through the streets did little to improve their surroundings. It felt as though unseen eyes were peering at them from the shadows of the abandoned houses. And indeed, there was one pair of eyes, filled with a chilling intensity, glaring through the veil of comforting darkness within one particular home. These eyes fixated on the children, their gaze unyielding and filled with an unsettling presence.

IX​

Seth sat by the fire with Vulpix, keeping a watchful eye over the camp while the rest of the group slept in their tents. The night remained calm, accompanied by the soothing sounds of Pokémon creating a peaceful symphony. Lost in thought, Seth ran his hands through Vulpix's curls, contemplating his strategy to defeat Sabrina. However, his attention was suddenly drawn to a peculiar sight just in front of the nearby brush—a small, silver light swaying back and forth. As he stopped petting Vulpix she also noticed the light. He couldn't help but notice the unusual nature of it. It was difficult to determine if it emitted its own luminescence or simply reflected the moon's gentle glow. The light continued its rhythmic swing, back and forth, captivating Seth's gaze. Although a part of him felt a sense of alarm, urging him to awaken the others, he found himself entranced, unable to look away from the mesmerizing motion—side to side, side to side, sidr to side, side to…

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 9​

Above My Head​

I have these dreams where I’m losing all my teeth

Where the walls begin to cave in and Bury me Beneath

And when I wake, there’s a part of me that wishes

That my nightmares would come true

If only just to give me peace.



- Polaris​

I​

Charlotte awoke finding herself walking through a dark and foreboding forest, where the feeble light of dawn struggled to penetrate the thick branches above. Ahead of her, she spotted Ava and Erin, walking in somber silence. Confusion and concern gnawed at her as she tried to make sense of their surroundings. Emerging before them stood a colossal dome-like structure, its front adorned in shades of pink while the sides bled into a deep red. Three ominous archways beckoned them inside, although the building appeared long abandoned, blanketed in ivy and caked with layers of dirt.

An overwhelming fear gripped Charlotte, causing her to halt her steps abruptly. "No! I don't want to go in there!" she cried out through sobs, desperately pleading with Ava and Erin to stop. However, her pleas received no answers as they continued their slow march. Charlotte stood frozen, her heart pounding. Suddenly, an unseen force seized hold of her, lifting her off the ground, leaving her suspended in mid-air. "No... I don't want to go in," she whimpered, tears streaming down her face as the force carried her forward into the darkened depths.

Within the building, the darkness engulfed her, leaving her with only a vague sense of a winding hallway. The doors behind her slammed shut, sealing off the outside world and silencing her cries.

II​

Emily found herself chained to the unforgiving ground, her every movement restrained. The cold touch of the concrete floor offered no solace in her desperation. Her screams echoed through the void, growing louder with each passing moment. Yet, they fell on deaf ears as her mother, Heather, Seth, and Erin purposefully averted their gazes, intentionally abandoning her to the depths of isolation.

A Mightyena stood nearby, its muzzle stained with blood as it clutched Heather's necklace in its jaws. When her sister finally turned around, her visage was grotesque, one eye hanging from its socket and a cheek torn open, revealing teeth. Emily tugged with all her might, desperately yearning for escape, but the chains held steadfast, leaving her trapped in the darkness.

III​

Glenn sat in the corner, shielding his eyes with only glimpses behind his crossed fingers. The men were constantly beating and raping his mother, her desperate screams for help piercing through his soul. He wanted so badly to get up and save her, but his legs wouldn't move, he was just so young; he felt paralyzed, powerless to intervene. Her screams echoed throughout the room, filling everything with horror and despair.

Finally, Glenn sunk into the floor, bringing the end to the events before him. His mother stood in front of him smiling. Then the men callously walked past him again, and his legs remained frozen, refusing to obey the desperate commands of his mind. The overwhelming sense of helplessness and horror engulfed him, leaving him feeling utterly broken and defeated inside the loop.

IV​

Brian, not even 15 years old, stood between his father and his sister, determined to protect her at all costs. He summoned every ounce of strength and courage he had, shoving his father with all his might, trying to defend her from the relentless abuse. The sickening thud echoed through the room as his father's head collided with the wall, leaving a trail of blood dripping down the surface.

"Daddy!" Brian screamed, his voice filled with fear and anguish. He recoiled, his body trembling into a ball on the floor, feeling so small in the vastness of the ever expanding room.

As his tears mingled with the darkness, he turned his gaze towards Rachel. Her head lay detached from her shoulders on the floor in front of her naked body. Blood slowly oozed from her lifeless neck. The words escaped her lips,"Where were you?" she asked. Her voice seem to fill the black void

V​

Sarah's lifeless corpse hung in the air. Blood dripped from her ankles, pooling beneath her. Her skin had turned pale, drained of any color it once held. Veins protruded and stretched across her body, twisting and contorting. Decay consumed her neck, spreading across the left side of her face and chest. Her mouth twisted in an unnatural shape, and her eyes, devoid of life, continued to stare into Seth's soul. Beside her, Erin stood, his tiny body devoid of vitality. His skin was as lifeless as his mother's, his eyes empty, and his mouth unhinged. Together, they began to chant, their voices growing louder and more haunting with each repetition.

"You can't save him," Sarah's voice echoed through the air.

"You can't save me," Erin's voice joined in, intertwining with his mother's.

The chant grew in intensity, louder and louder and louder, that threatened to shatter his sanity. The sound pounded in his ears, reverberating through his very being, until it felt as if his head would explode.

"No!" Seth screamed, his body jerking upright from the ground. The sun had long risen, casting its light upon the scene. Tears filled Emily's eyes. Brian consoled Glenn, who sobbed uncontrollably, repeating the words, "My girls, my girls."

Seth's gaze darted around, searching frantically for his son. He rushed to his tent, his heart pounding in his chest. But when he entered, he found the sleeping bag empty. Panic consumed him, and he tore the tent apart in a desperate search. "No, no, no!" Seth cried out, his voice trembling with fear and desperation. "Please, no, please."

Emily approached, placing a gentle hand on his back, trying to offer some comfort. Enraged and overwhelmed, Seth turned, pushing her forcefully to the ground. "Where is he?" he demanded in rage. Tears streamed down his face as he collapsed to his knees, his legs no longer able to support him. Emily embraced him, holding him tightly as he continued to sob, his voice choked with pain. "Where is he?" Seth repeated, his words a desperate plea for answers.

Vulpix finally regained consciousness, and upon witnessing the commotion, she swiftly made her way towards Seth. The expression on his face instantly told her what had happened. With a hunched posture, Vulpix growled menacingly at Seth.

In a momentary lapse, Vulpix disappeared from sight, only to reappear with a forceful collision of her head against Seth's chest. Standing atop him, she bared her teeth, and shot flames above him. However, what hurt more for Seth, even more than the physical impact, was the undeniable sense of failure he saw in Vulpix's eyes. Gradually, Vulpix lept to the ground, and made her way to the tent. Nestling herself on Erin's sleeping bag. Whimpering softly.

"Seth, I need to know what our plan is," Brian said, his tone cautious, uncertain of how Seth would respond.

"We're going to fucking find them. They have to be somewhere near that town," Seth replied firmly. The four of them swiftly gathered their belongings and retraced their steps back toward the deserted town.

"Did any of you have nightmares last night?" Emily asked.

"Yeah," Glenn responded, his voice barely audible, still withdrawn.

"I did too," Brian confessed. "It was like reliving my darkest moments, but turned up. It was horrifying. It's no wonder why everyone abandoned this place. I don't even want to sleep again after experiencing that."

Emily nodded in understanding. She gently rubbed Seth's back and locked eyes with him, conveying her unwavering support. "We will find him, Seth."

He simply nodded, his expression seemingly blank, yet tears silently streamed down his face. "It's my fault. I don't know how, but I fell asleep," he admitted, his voice trembling. "All I remember is sitting by the fire and seeing this moving light."

Glenn's gaze bore into Seth's, a mixture of hatred and disbelief. Seth's face held an overwhelming sense of grief, causing Glenn to avert his eyes.

“Vulpix, do you remember that light?” She simply nodded to Seth and continued walking at a fast pace.

VI​

Erin stood frozen in front of the ominous tree, its trunk bearing the carving of his mother's name and something else etched beneath it. His eyes scanned the word, not being able to read it. He knew what it meant though, a sinking feeling in his heart told him that his father now rested beneath this very tree.

"Daddy, please help me," Erin sobbed, his voice trembling with fear. "I don't want to be alone."

He pleaded desperately, repeating his plea over and over again, but the silence of the desolate surroundings only amplified his anguish. As he turned his gaze back to the tree, his heart skipped a beat. Two hollowed holes formed in the trunk, resembling eerie eyes staring back at him.

Fear gripped Erin's entire being, paralyzing him in place. Suddenly, with a bone-chilling rustle, two branches descended from above, slamming into the ground on either side of him. The branches twisted and contorted, taking on an uncanny resemblance to gnarled fingers reaching out from the depths of nightmare. The tree began to lift itself, the roots pulling out of the ground looking like sharp fangs.

"No, stop! No!" Erin screamed, his voice filled with terror, but his pleas fell on deaf ears. The ground beneath him gave way, and he felt himself being pulled into a sinister abyss.

Frantically, he reached out for anything within his grasp, desperately fighting against the inevitable fate that awaited him. His screams echoed through the air, a desperate cry for salvation as he was swallowed by the monstrous maw of the tree, his fingers slipping away, inch by agonizing inch.

"I don't want to go under the tree! No! NO!" Erin's desperate cries reverberated in the darkness, his voice fading into a haunting silence.

Erin's eyes fluttered open, and he found himself in a dimly lit room. The low-hanging ceiling panels seemed worn and neglected. The windows only allow faint rays of light to seep through the partially drawn curtains. To his left, Ava lay motionless on the cold floor, fast asleep. Turning his gaze to the right, his heart sank as he saw Charlotte lying there, but something was crouched over her form.

The creature's upper body was a sickly yellow hue, while its lower half was a dark, ominous brown. Its bloated stomach rested heavily on top of Charlotte, and its eyes were rolled up, showing only the whites. With its short trunk attached to her nose, it appeared as though it were feasting on something unseen. Erin's terror erupted into screams for his father, mother, Emily, Vulpix—names that reverberated through the room.

As he looked around, he noticed dozens of other children, seemingly asleep, with several Drowzees hovering over a few of them. Their eyes, eerily synchronized, rolled back and locked onto Erin. In the doorway, yellow fingers tightened their grip, and a yellow-furred Hypno emerged, its once-white mane now stained with blood, giving it a ghastly appearance. Its eyes remained concealed in the shadows, while its teeth, splattered with crimson, glistened ominously. Holding a small circle on a string, it began to swing it back and forth, slowly getting closer towards Erin.

Fear gripped him, and he desperately wanted to flee, to leap through the window, to teleport away from this nightmare. But he couldn't tear his eyes away from the small, silver disc. The Hypno inched closer, its haunting smile scaring Erin to his core, causing his body to tremble uncontrollably. Closer it inched. The terror overwhelmed him to the point where he felt the warmth of urine seeping into his pants.

Closer and closer it came, almost within reach. "Daddy... please... help me..." Erin's plea trembled on his lips, descending into the suffocating darkness of another nightmare.

VII​

The deserted streets of Gardenia Town were bathed in an eerie red light. The group's team of Pokémon emerged before their trainer. Primeape, Vulpix, Torterra, Ditto, Vaporeon, Lairon, Noibat, Flapple, Ceruledge, and Fraxure stood looking at their trainers, confused.

"I..." Seth's voice caught in his throat as he struggled to find the right words, desperately grappling with the hope that by not uttering them, his current reality would dissolve into mere illusion, and Erin would reappear, his infectious smile lighting up their lives once again. "I…"

Emily, sensing his pain, interjected, "Erin, Ava, and Charlotte have been taken. They may be somewhere in this city. Go!" In an instant, they all darted into different directions. Even Ditto, assuming the form of Flapple, took off in a seemingly random way.

Gardenia appeared just as abandoned as its initial impression suggested. After hours of tearing through vacant homes and local stores, there were no signs or clues as to the whereabouts of the missing children. The only evidence they found belonged to previous search parties, likely from the group they had encountered two days ago on Route seven. The town stood still, bathed in the waning light of dusk, with no indication of Erin's location.

"Erin!" Seth's desperate cry echoed through the empty streets, but there was no response. Only Sarah staring at him through a window. “Erin, say something!”

Brian turned the corner and approached him, "I'm sorry, Seth, I couldn't find anything."

Seth let out a whistle that carried throughout the silent town. "Let's try something else. Maybe we should search the surrounding woods or look for any other potential locations, like a house or something."

“Okay,” Brian said with hope barely evident in his voice.

The group of trainers found themselves surrounded by their Pokémon, tension filling the air. As the light began to fade, the town seemed to grow even more vast and desolate. "I think it's time for us to split up and search the woods," suggested Glenn. "There has to be some connection to this town." Seth nodded in agreement, his expression mirroring Glenn's.

"Let's each take a different direction and cover as..." Noibat suddenly started fluttering around, emitting distressed screeches. "What's wrong?" Seth asked. Noibat tugged at Seth's collar, trying to lead him in a specific direction.

"Fuck, it hears something." Emily exclaimed, her hand covering her mouth in disbelief.

They quickly returned most of their Pokémon to their Pokéballs and embarked on a frantic chase after Noibat. As they entered the dense forest situated north of the town, an eerie stillness settled over the surroundings. The darkness closed in around them, suffocating the fading daylight and leaving them reliant on their flashlights for visibility.

The woods took on a sinister character, as if they held horrors within their twisted branches. The gnarled trees loomed like skeletal sentinels, their contorted forms casting elongated shadows that seemed to dance and writhe with malevolence. The air grew heavy and oppressive, carrying an unsettling scent of decay and dampness.

With each step deeper into the forest, the underbrush became increasingly dense and tangled, like a labyrinth designed to ensnare and confuse. Thorned vines reached out from the darkness, snaking their way around their ankles and clawing at their exposed skin, drawing thin lines of blood.

Strange noises echoed through the blackened woods—a chorus of whispered voices carried on the wind, indistinguishable yet chilling to the core. Branches creaked and groaned as if in protest, as though the very trees themselves were watching and waiting.

Still, they pressed forward, their determination overshadowing the encroaching dread. Noibat's chirping and fluttering guided them through the oppressive darkness, their flashlights casting feeble beams that seemed to be swallowed by the unyielding night.

Gradually, one of the whispers, barely audible at first, grew stronger and more distinct. Seth strained to listen, his heart pounding in his chest. "No... I don't want to go in," the voice echoed through the dense forest. Emily's expression turned to worry, and Glenn's eyes widened in recognition. "Charlotte?" he questioned, his voice laced with concern.

As they pressed on, Charlotte's sobs and cries grew louder, reverberating through the abyss of the woods. The group picked up their pace, their feet pounding against the forest floor, driven by a mix of fear and desperation. The haunting plea, "No! I don't want to go in there!" echoed around them, intensifying their urgency.

Their frantic pursuit led them to a small clearing, where they hoped to find their kids. "Charlotte!" Glenn's voice cracked with emotion. "Where are you?"

VIII​

Drowzee's eyes rolled back as it released its suction on Charlotte's nose. Her eyes snapped open, and a loud, unexpected yell erupted from her throat. It wasn't a cry of fear but a repetitive "Woo" that's purpose only seemed to be to make noise. She stumbled around, her movements aimless, while continuing to vocalize the strange utterance.

Her mind seemed disconnected, as if the lights of rationality had been extinguished. In her disoriented state, she tripped over a sleeping child, unable to break her fall with her hands. Her face collided with the hard tile floor, blood gushing from her broken nose. Yet, instead of screaming in pain, she persisted in emitting the loud "Woo" repeatedly, as if it were the only way to express herself.

Suddenly, Charlotte found herself suspended in the air once again. She offered no resistance, allowing the invisible force to carry her through the desolate hallways, her "Woo" continuing to resonate and reverberate. The sound echoed through the empty corridors, filling the air with an eerie vibration.

As they passed several doors, Charlotte was abruptly thrown to the ground inside a dark room. A yellow hand reached out, grabbing her arm and dragging her closer. One last "Woo," vibrated through the halls.

IX​

Glenn, overwhelmed with despair, collapsed to the ground, tears streaming down his face. A tree stump floated in the air with a dark phantom-like body extending below it. The Phantump turned its gaze towards him, and in Charlotte's voice, it repeated the agonized plea, "No! I don't want to go in there!"

Confusion and grief engulfed Glenn, as he searched desperately for answers asking, “what the hell is this,” in the midst of this haunting encounter. Before anyone could offer an explanation, more Phantumps emerged from the depths of the forest, their ghostly forms swaying in the night breeze. The air grew thick with the cries of children, their voices blending together in a chorus of sorrow and despair.

The group found themselves surrounded by the spectral apparitions, the sound of children's cries enveloping them, consuming their senses. As one of the Phantumps passed by Seth, it carried the haunting echoes of Erin's voice, mingled with the words, "Daddy... please... help me..." repeating in an endless loop. The weight of Seth's became too much, and he crumbled to the forest floor, his body convulsing with sorrow. "Erin... Erin, where are you?" Seth's voice broke, his tears blending with the anguished cries that echoed through the woods.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 10​

Starlight​

I don't know what to say

But I'm going to want you till the stars evaporate

We're only here for just a moment in the light

One day it shines for us the next we're in the night

So say the word and I'll be running back to find you

A thousand armies won't stop me I'll break through

I'll soar the endless skies for only one sight

Of your starlight​

- Starset​

I​

The field was shrouded in darkness, and the echoes of the missing children's cries pierced the heavy air. The ethereal dance of Phantumps continued, their forms floating gracefully, carrying the haunting melody that terrorized the grieving parents. Emily stepped forward and offered her support to Glenn, helping him to his feet. "Come on, this is a good sign," Emily reassured him. "Phantumps are said to mimic the cries of lost children in the forest. Let’s keep going."

"It's also said that their cries mimic dying children to lead adults to their deaths in the forest." Glenn responded bitterly. “At least try while lying to me.”

Seth's voice cut through the darkness while he got back to his feet. "Then give up if you want to, but I won't. I'm going to find Erin, and I will see that fucking smile of his if its the last thing I do."

Sarah floated inches from him screaming, "You can't save him."

He began walking resolutely to the other end of the field through the grim choir. Emily and Brian exchanged looks before reassuring Glenn, "It's going to be okay. We're going to find your girls; we won't stop until we do."

Noibat fluttered around Seth, urging him forward with its persistent movements. The group followed, maneuvering through the dense and unforgiving forest for what felt like an eternity. Every step was a struggle against the tangled branches and uneven terrain. Noibat eventually led them to a long-forgotten path, hidden beneath layers of overgrowth and neglect. As if it had simply been left to rot for decades.

They trudged along, their flashlights cutting through the darkness and revealing glimpses of the surrounding landscape. And then, as if emerging from the shadows themselves, a colossal dome-shaped structure came into view. The beam of their flashlights revealed its dilapidated state, with the front facade coated in layers of dirt and engulfed by ivy.

"Fuck me, it's a contest hall," Emily exclaimed, “My dad used to take me to these shows when I was a little. Long before the war even broke out.” The three grand entrance ways arched over them, shrouded in darkness, devoid of any sign of life. It felt as though the very darkness that cloaked the building held something sinister within.

II​

The entry room of the contest hall stood before them, its grandeur now faded and tarnished by the passage of time. A large service desk greeted them, its once-polished surface now dulled by a layer of dust that had settled over the decades. Banners depicting magnificent Pokémon in the midst of dynamic moves adorned the walls, but their vibrant colors had vanished, their edges tattered and frayed. The air hung heavy with stillness, disturbed only by the faint whispers of the past echoing through the empty space. As they stepped further into the dimly lit interior, their footsteps muffled by the accumulated layers of grime, they could see the decay that had taken hold. Noibat started flying around them as if to explain that this is the place where the kids are.

Seth walked up to the doorway leading into the amphitheater. It was barricaded in a chaotic jumble of desks, chairs, and shelves stacked haphazardly. “Seth, look down.” Brian asked, standing in the middle of the room. Flapple cowering under its wings on her trainer's shoulder.

Layers of dust covered the floor, but some of the floor was disturbed by the footprints that trailed away from the makeshift wall. He turned around tracing the footprints with his eyes. They meet another well worn path in the dust coming from the main entrance. Some footprints were clear, showing the deliberate steps, but were not human. However, others appeared shuffled and indistinct, as if the individuals who had made them had dragged their feet or moved with an eerie lack of purpose.

As their gazes followed the path laid out by the footprints, the group found themselves drawn to the beginning of the hallway towards the left of the main entry room. The path itself curved gently, its walls lined with wallpaper peeling at the edges. Faint traces of patterns and colors hinted at a time when the space had been lively and welcoming. Yet now, the hallway stood in stark contrast to its former self, cloaked in an unsettling silence that seemed to weigh heavily upon the air.

"Pokémon out" Seth commanded, the Pokémon emergerged into the entrance hall, surveying the surroundings filled with an eerie sense of dread. Seth singled out Torterra, “You are too big to fit through this corridor. Stay here, kill anything trying to escape.” Torterra nodded, positioning itself firmly in the middle of the room.

"The rest of you, stick with us," Brian instructed, taking the lead with Ceruledge by his side. The group followed the path marked in the dust, their steps cautious and deliberate. Ceruledge emitted a dim purple light, casting a faint glow that illuminated their way through the darkness.

After a few minutes of traversing the corridor, they began to hear unsettling noises—an echoing slurping sound. Sensing danger, they slowed their pace, Brian signaling for silence by placing a finger over his lips. Suddenly, Ceruledge halted, its light revealing the figure of a Drowzee, its eyes reflecting the purple glow. The Drowzee dropped to all fours and expelled a toxic purple gas from its trunk, sending it floating toward the group.

"Poison Gas!" Brian's voice rang out in the darkness.

Vaporeon, use Aqua Ring,” Emily roared. Water exuded from its body flooding the floor then becoming a swirling ring of water surrounding them.

"Vulpix, Ember!" Seth called out. Vulpix emerged from within the protective water ring and released a concentrated ball of fire toward the Drowzee. The flames ignited the gas, creating a fiery explosion that crashed into the water, engulfed the hallway and Drowzee. The air filled with its pained cries and the smell of its burning flesh. As the flames subsided, the water collapsed back to the floor, surging back towards Vaporeon and absorbing back into her body.

The group cautiously approached the charred remains of the Drowzee, their relief short-lived as six more them emerged from the darkness, revealed by the dying embers of their fallen comrade. The horrifying truth dawned upon them. "It's a fucking nest," Brian reverberated, his voice filled with dread.

The lead drowzee lifted its arms towards Ceruledge, lifting her into the air, its body contorted and writhed in pain, emitting agonized shrieks. The relentless grip of the Drowzee's psychic attack tightened, squeezing Ceruledge with an unyielding force. Seth's Primeape, charged down the hall with lightning speed, intent on freeing Ceruledge from its tormentor. However, as Primeape closed in on the lead Drowzee, the others swiftly raised their arms, intercepting the charging Pokémon and suspending it mid-air as well.

"Fuck this." Emily muttered under her breath, a determined glint in her eyes. "Lairon, use Rock Tomb!" With a powerful crash, Lairon's head collided with the nearby wall, causing cracks to spiderweb through the structure. The walls and ceiling above the horde of Drowzees began to crumble and give way. Debris rained down upon them, forcing the Drowzees to release their psychic hold on Ceruledge and Primeape, their focus shifting to protecting themselves from the collapsing ceiling.

Primeape wasted no time, seizing the opportunity to strike back. With a primal roar, it grabbed hold of the front Drowzee and ruthlessly slammed its body against the walls and floor, delivering devastating blows until its head finally split from its body, ending its torment. Meanwhile, Ceruledge tore through the hallway, its sharp sword slicing through the air. In one swift motion, it decapitated two Drowzees with a single powerful swing, their lifeless bodies falling to the ground.

The remaining Drowzees, their confidence shaken, attempted to retaliate with a desperate Psybeam attack. They raised their arms to their heads, attempting to take control of Primeape and Ceruledge. But their efforts proved futile, as their attacker never made eye contact.

Primeape seized two Drowzees in its vice-like grip, their bodies helpless against its sheer strength. With a resounding crack, Primeape mercilessly crushed their skulls together, blood splattering onto the ground. Meanwhile, Ceruledge, with a lethal precision, plunged its gleaming sword-like appendages into an eye of the remaining Drowzee. The blade emerged from the back of its head, eliciting convulsions and spasms as it twitched upon the blood-soaked floor.

Seth gently patted Primeape's back, "Well done. Now, let's find Erin," he said. Primeape met his trainer's gaze, conveying its understanding and readiness. They pressed forward down the dimly lit hallway following the path in the dust until it led them to a pair of imposing double doors.

Glenn, overwhelmed with anxiety and desperation, whimpered, "They have to be in here. My girls... they have to be in here." Emily and Brian, their hands trembling with a mix of anticipation and fear, gripped the door handles. Flapple, Noibat, and the duplicate Noibat fluttered in the air, their presence adding an aura of protection and support. The group of Pokémon and their trainers braced themselves, ready for whatever awaited them beyond the threshold.

III​

As the doors swung open, a chilling scene unfolded before their eyes. Dozens of children lay motionless on the floor, their small bodies barely visible in the dim light that emanated from Ceruledge and the scattered flashlights. “Oh, no.” Emily gasped in horror as her flashlight revealed Erin, trapped beneath a Drowzee whose trunk was tightly latched onto his face. The Drowzee's eyes fluttered open, fixing an intense gaze upon Emily.

"Erin!" Seth's voice pierced through the air. In that moment, the silhouettes of eight figures rose ominously from amidst the children's bodies, their presence casting an eerie shadow over the room.

Seth's heart raced as he sprinted towards Erin, his sole focus on rescuing his son. Ignoring the looming danger before him, he pushed forward. But just as he reached out to grab Erin, an invisible force tightened its grip around Seth's body, trapping him in its suffocating hold. "Erin! I'm coming!" he cried out, his voice filled with desperation and anguish. Noibat lunged forward and sunk its teeth into the Drowzee's throat, forcing it to release Seth from its clutches.

Bluish-purple flames and strong wind engulfed Noibat and Drowzee, whose feet were the only thing visible as its shrieks grew louder. The ball of fire expanded, consuming all of Drowzee with its intensity as it rose above Erin. Noivern emerged from the flames and hurled the now lifeless body against a nearby window, shattering it, leaving a grotesque gash that spurted blood.

Seth crumbled to the ground, clutching Erin tightly in his arms. Tears streamed down his face as he whispered, "Erin, I'm here. I've got you." Glenn, overwhelmed with relief, sank down beside Seth, lifting Ava into his embrace. The two fathers, united in their love, held their children close, cherishing the moment of reunion amidst the chaotic darkness that surrounded them.

As Seth and Glenn held their children, Emily and Brian took charge, their voices commanding and resolute. The remaining Drowzees stood no chance against the unified strength of the group. Fraxure thrust its sharp tusks upward, impaling a Drowzee's lower jaw through the top of its head. The lifeless body slumped to the ground, blood staining the floor.

Noivern, with its powerful wings, unleashed a devastating Boomburst attack. The high-frequency vibrations collided with a targeted Drowzee, causing blood to stream from its eyes and ears until it collapsed, defeated. Ditto swiftly transformed into Ceruledge, its flaming body charging forward to slam into another Drowzee, sending it flying across the room.

Primeape, fueled by rage, tore one Drowzee in half, flinging both ends to its sides with a forceful throw. Flapple, hidden within its protective apple shield, launched itself at full speed, colliding into the forehead of a Drowzee and knocking it into the waiting blade of Ceruledge. Lairon, with its immense strength, brought its heavy feet crashing down on another Drowzee's skull, crushing it completely.

Vaporeon unleashed a powerful Aurora Beam, freezing the last remaining Drowzee's head. With a final burst of force, Vaporeon charged forward, smashing with the frozen head, shattering it into pieces. The threat of the Drowzees was extinguished, their presence reduced to lifeless forms strewn across the room. Silence settled in the aftermath of the battle, broken only by the heavy breathing of the group.

Brian and Emily approached Seth and Glenn, their faces filled with concern. Both fathers were still clinging tightly to their children, their eyes filled with desperation. Seth looked at Emily, the agony clear in his eyes, his voice trembling as he spoke, "He isn't waking up. Why won't he wake up?"

Glenn turned to Brian, "Please, go find Charlotte for me."

Brian nodded empathetically. "Of course."

Seth continued to shake Erin, desperately trying to rouse him. “They will come too,” Emily said compassionately. “We just need to wait.” Seth collapsed by Erin's side once again, holding him tightly, his heart filled with both love and helplessness. Emily wrapped her arms around both Seth and Erin.

From near the entrance of the room, Flapple's anguished screams pierced the air. Brian swiftly turned around, shining his flashlight on Flapple, only to witness the distressing sight of the Pokémon being suspended in mid-air. Flapple's limbs contorted and twisted unnaturally, as if under the control of an unseen force. The light behind Flapple revealed the sinister figure of a malicious Hypno, its teeth bared and blood dripping from its chin.

"Go, Ceruledge!" Brian shouted, urgency and determination filling his voice. But before Ceruledge could sprint towards Flapple's aid, another Hypno emerged from the shadows, joining its companion. The two Hypnos clenched their extended hands into a fist, as if exerting the force even more, causing Flapple's limbs to snap and twist in agonizing contortions. The sound of bone breaking echoed through the room as Flapple collapsed to the ground with a quiet thud.

"No!" Brian cried out. The two Hypnos entered the room, their eyes fixed on the group, their small disks, swinging them back and forth on their strings. Primeape and Ceruledge, undeterred, focused on the feet of the Hypnos. In a split second, Primeape unleashed a devastating blow, striking his fist into one of the Hypnos, decapitating it and sending its head hurtling into the hallway. Ceruledge, with precision and swiftness, sliced through the other Hypno from hip to shoulder, causing the two halves of its body to collapse to the floor.

Brian walked towards the lifeless body of Flapple, his grip tightening around it as grief and sorrow overwhelmed him. "Flapple," he whimpered quietly, his voice filled with a deep sense of sorrow.

Emily walked towards the doorway where the lifeless bodies of the Hypnos now lay. The contest hall fell into a heavy silence, filled not only with their own grief but also with the haunting presence of the lost and lonely children scattered throughout the room.

Glenn, his voice barely audible, mustered the strength to speak. "Brian, did you find her? Did you find my Charlotte?" Brian lifted his head, his gaze meeting Glenn's, and he slowly shook his head, a solemn expression etched on his face.

"Brian," Emily called out, standing at the doorway next to Primeape and Ceruledge. "Come here, there are more footprints." Brian gently laid Flapple down and, with a struggling effort, rose to his feet. "Seth, Glenn, we're going to check this out," she announced. They disappeared into the darkness, leaving Seth and Glenn with their children, accompanied by Ceruledge and Lairon, who followed closely behind.

IV​

Unlike the path they had been following, the newly discovered footprints were clear and distinct, leading them to a door just a few feet down. As they opened the door, a wave of rancid odor hit them, almost physically pushing them back. The beams of their flashlights revealed a horrifying sight that immediately overwhelmed Brian, causing him to retch. The room was scattered with lifeless bodies, some with their chest cavities gruesomely open, their flesh barely clinging to their bones.

Amidst the scene, a peculiar noise caught their attention from the right side of the room. There, they saw a young boy, no older than seven, blowing raspberries while staring at the ceiling. Chunks of flesh were ripped out from his side and neck, and blood pooled around him. “Oh, fuck,” Emily approached him cautiously. “It's okay, It's okay,” Trying to offer comfort, but the boy remained oblivious to his injuries and her, continuing to blow raspberries as if in a trance.

"Brian, what's happening?" Emily asked in horror.

Brian turned away from the gruesome sight, struggling to find the right words. "The Drowzees... they have devoured their dreams until there is nothing left, and the Hypnos feast on their bodies.” The boy's raspy breaths gradually slowed until they ceased altogether, his chest falling for the final time.

Throughout the room, Brian and Emily's gazes fell upon the tragic sight of six lifeless bodies strewn about. But it was the sight of a tiny dress, one that Charlotte had adored wearing, that pierced Brian's heart. The once vibrant dress was now soaked in crimson, its fabric stained by the blood that had spilled from Charlotte's ravaged body. Her face, mostly gone, and her limbs stripped of flesh, bore the harrowing signs of the gruesome fate she had suffered.

Overwhelmed by grief and despair, Brian collapsed beside Charlotte, his trembling hands reaching out to hold her lifeless form. But how does one hold onto what is no longer there? With tears streaming down his face, he buried his face in his hands, his anguished sobs echoing through the desolate room. Emily stood beside him, her own tears falling silently, the weight of their shared sorrow almost too heavy to bear.

V​

Glenn's head popped up eagerly, dawning hopeful anticipation as he watched Emily and Brian enter the dark room. He eagerly awaited Charlotte's appearance, yearning to see her face and hold her in his arms. However, as they approached him, Charlotte was nowhere to be found. Confusion turned to worry, and Glenn's smile faded. "Where is she?" he asked, his voice trembling. "Is she asleep too? Do you need my help carrying her?" His heart sank as he saw Brian's tear-streaked face and the pain in Emily's eyes. "Fuck it, I will go get her!" Glenn shouted in desperation, his voice filled with anguish.

As Glenn carefully laid Ava down, Brian extended a restraining hand. "Don't," he pleaded, his voice filled with sorrow. He struggled to find the right words to convey the heartbreaking truth. "Just please don't go over there."

Glenn looked at him, realization dawning on his face. "You found her," he whispered, his voice heavy with despair. Emily nodded, tears streaming down her face.

“Then bring her here… Please… Bring me Charlotte…” The words barely escaped Glenn’s mouth. They both shook their heads painfully. His grief erupted into a deep, gut-wrenching cry.

In his anguish, he reached for a shard of glass lying nearby, his intent to inflict pain upon himself. But Brian reacted swiftly, collapsing on top of Glenn and desperately restraining his arm. "No!" Brian demanded, his voice filled with urgency. "You need to think of Ava." The sound of Glenn's sobs thundered through the building.

VI​

While Glenn held Ava in the main entry room, with Erin lying close beside them, Seth, Emily, and Brian carefully carried all the children, laying them down in front of the main doors of the contest hall. Brian took the initiative to explain to Seth what they had discovered in the Hypnos’ den, away from Glenn. However, he chose to omit the gruesome details of the dying child's destroyed mind. With a Drowzee being attached to Erin, he didn't want to create any more panic. The focus now was on the safety and well-being of the children. For now, finding Erin and Ava was enough.

Seth turned to Brian, his eyes filled with worry, as Vulpix nestled her head on top of Erin. "Brian, how are we going to get them home?"

Brian shrugged his shoulders, not knowing what to do in this situation. "I'm not sure. Some of them could be asleep for days since the Hypno put them under.”

“We don't even know how long some of them have been here. We need to provide them with water, at the very least," Seth continued. He turned his head towards Emily who was transfixed by the barrier blocking of the amphitheater.

"Emily," he called, but she was too focused to hear. "Emily!" he called out louder, grabbing Brian's attention, who now looked concerned about Emily as well.

"This is only half the story," Emily muttered to herself.

"What?" Brian asked, struggling to hear her.

"This is only half the story," she repeated, her voice more confident this time.

"What do you mean?" Seth inquired.

“Look at the dust on this stuff. It’s like some of it was blown off. And there are no footprints right up to the barrier, meaning something threw it from back there.” She pointed 10 feet back from the barrier where large circle footprints ended in the main hall.

“You’re saying the Hypnos made this thing, why?” Brian asked, confused about the point she was trying to make.

"They were scared of what's behind it. Think about it. The whole town has been experiencing nightmares for two months, but the kids were only taken a few weeks ago, why?" she explained.

"Yeah, it was the Hypnos. If you forgot, you can go back and look at their den," Seth retorted.

"But Hypnos don't cause nightmares or dreams for that matter. Only Drowzees consume them. Besides, have you ever heard of a Drowzee nest being this violent? Sure, Hypnos have been reported to kidnap kids and let their Drowzees feed on them, but the children are always returned to their parents. They are never like..." Emily stopped herself, not wanting to reveal the horrifying fate of the small boy and his last moments. "Drowzee nests are never this large or long-lasting. Consuming only nightmares must have changed them. Made them more aggressive."

"Then what caused the nightmares?" Brian asked, wanting to know the answer to this riddle.

“Once upon a time, in a peaceful village nestled in the green fields of Sinnoh, there lived a little girl. She was kind-hearted and full of wonder, always seeking adventure. But one day, while exploring a fearsome Ursaring attacked. Its growls echoed through the forest.

Just when it seemed all hope was lost, a mysterious Pokémon appeared from the shadows. It scared away the Ursaring and saved the girl.

Grateful and amazed, she approached the pitch black Pokémon. It wasn't a creature of darkness, but a lonely being longing for someone. The two became friends and returned to the village together. However, that night, the villagers fell into a deep sleep and experienced terrible nightmares.

The villagers blamed the Pokémon for their nightmares. Anger consumed them, and they turned against the Pokémon. It looked to the little girl for help, but she was too frightened.

Heartbroken and misunderstood, it left the village. It wandered far and wide, searching for a place where it could find acceptance and overcome its loneliness.” Emily finished the story. “My dad used to read me that story all the time.”

"Darkrais were hunted into extinction almost 200 years ago, Emily. Plus, they're from Sinnoh. How is it that one is here?" Seth questioned.

"Then make sense of it for me, Seth," she yelled in frustration.

"I don't know, okay? But right now, we need to figure out how to get these kids home," he responded, trying to keep a level head.

Emily chuckled, a hint of realization in her voice, "That answer is right here. Darkrai can wake them up."

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 11​

Killing Me​

Prove to me I’m worthless

Strip my spark away

How could this mean anything

When your comfort's in my pain?

Break me down, break me down

Because you love the way it feels ​

- Ocean Sleeper ​

I​

"Emily, we need an actual solution," Seth pleaded.

"And that's not one," she responded firmly.

"No, it's not. The best-case scenario is that we go face-to-face with the Pokémon that caused an entire city to abandon and ask it kindly to undo the damage without killing us," Seth argued.

"Did you not hear the story?" Emily retorted, growing more frustrated with Seth's stubbornness.

"It's just a story, Emily!”

It's based on the extinction of Darkrai!" She yelled back.

"Exactly, extinction!" He emphasized, his frustration mounting.

"When I am right, I get to hit you as hard as I fucking can. Deal?" She said with a smirk.

"Sure, but we're not goi...," Seth insisted, but before he could finish his sentence,

Brian interjected, "We are going in."

"What?" Seth responded, taken aback.

"What other choice do we have? We either don't go in and let these kids die of dehydration while we figure out how to get them out, or we go in and hope to be lucky enough to encounter a Pokémon that can wake them up," Brian reasoned.

Seth knew deep down that he would abandon every child here to save Erin, and he hated himself for it. "It's not going to do us any good if we're dead," he responded reluctantly.

"It's not going to do Erin any good if he is still asleep in four days, dying in his sleep," Emily said bluntly, emphasizing the urgency.

"Whatever, let's just get this done. Torterra, move the barrier," Seth commanded. Torterra focused on the debris—desks, chairs, and shelves—and after a moment, roots broke through the floor and began lifting them. Some items fell to the floor, a wooden chair splitting into pieces in front of them. However, most of the debris was lifted, creating a narrow passage that Primeape could possibly fit through.

"Glenn, are you going to be alright?" Brian asked, concern evident in his voice, as the three of them ventured closer to the doorway. Glenn looked up, his expression completely broken as he clutched onto Ava. He nodded in response, but it was clear that he was devastated. Brian desperately wanted to offer some comfort, to tell him that everything would be okay, but deep down he knew that it wouldn't. He had failed once again in protecting someone—Rachel, Flapple and Charlotte were gone, and he felt utterly powerless to change that fact.

Seth walked through the debris and opened the double doors that led into the amphitheater. Emily, Brian, and the Pokémon that they hadn't recalled followed behind him, ready to face whatever awaited them inside.

II​

A profound darkness engulfed the center of the stage, casting an even deeper shadow over the already dimly lit amphitheater. It was a darkness that seemed to consume all light, leaving nothing in its wake. From the sides of it, two swirling clouds of eternal blackness arose, emanating an ominous presence. Meanwhile, in the middle, a small pillar of white smoke billowed upwards, standing out to the surrounding darkness.

With cautious steps, they advanced further into the amphitheater. The bench seats were long past worn, the open ceiling causing decades of weathering. Moss had taken hold, freely spreading across the cracked concrete flooring, as nature sought to reclaim its territory. In certain spots, small trees had managed to break through the ground, their twisted branches rising defiantly above the desolate landscape.

With their Pokémon standing guard, they cautiously approached the edge of the stage, drawing nearer to the enigmatic shadow. Fraxure, Vulpix, and Lairon took up defensive positions, ready to protect their trainers from whatever awaited them. As they moved closer, their focus honed in on the peculiar sight before them: a crimson, jaw-like growth encircling the pillar of white smoke.

"What is it doing?" Brian curiously stared at the enigmatic figure shrouded in eternal darkness.

"I have no idea," Seth responded.

"Should we... like, hit it or something?" Emily suggested a hint of sarcasm in her voice.

"Feel free, but let me step way back here," Brian replied, playfully taking a few steps backwards. As they joked, the shadowy form began to rise and solidify, taking shape in the air.

Seth felt a sharp pain shoot through his right arm. "Fuck yeah, I was right," Emily said with a smile.

"Now is not the fucking time, Emily!" Seth retorted.

The red jaw-like object hung like a necklace, while the white smoke resembled hair. A piercing blue eye stared at them, shifting between the six of them. Lairon growled protectively in front of Emily. The figure hovered in the air, motionless, as if waiting for them to make a move.

"Can... can you understand us?" Emily cautiously asked.

The figure nodded its head.

"Are you going to attack us?" Brian inquired. It shook its head, dismissing the notion of causing harm, like it was some absurd idea.

"Do you know what has happened here?" Brian pressed. Darkrai appeared confused and shook its head. It suddenly returned to a shadow disappearing into the ground, swiftly making its way towards the main entrance.

“The kids!” Brian screamed and chased after it, followed closely by the others. As they reached the hole in the barrier, Glenn stood there, his gaze fixed on Darkrai, who floated above the sleeping children, appearing tormented.

Seth approached Darkrai, his voice filled with anger and grief. "Why do you act as if you're in pain? It's because of you that my son won't wake up," he accused. Kneeling beside Erin, Seth pleaded, "Make this right and release them." Darkrai hovered near Seth, its piercing blue eye locking with his gaze. After a moment, Darkrai looked around at the sleeping children, then slowly transformed into a shadow on the ground, moving towards the front doors before disappearing entirely.

"Come back!" Seth cried out, clutching Erin tightly. "Help us! Please, help us... Help him." His screams turned into quiet sobs.

III​

"Seth," Emily gently touched Seth's arm, trying to wake him. Light streamed through the broken barrier and the main entrance doors. "We need to get out of here," she urged.

Seth lifted Erin, who remained asleep beside him. "How can we get them out?" he wondered aloud.

Brian spoke up, sharing his idea. "What if we hook up this rug," he gestured towards a large rug in the center of the room, "to Torterra, and he pulls the kids towards town." Torterra nodded in agreement, ready to assist.

The light from the main entrance grew brighter, capturing their attention until it became almost blinding. The doors swung open, releasing a strong gust of wind that swept through the room. The blinding light intensified, revealing a purple Pokémon with three pink crescents adorning its body and a face shaped like crescent moons. Darkrai floated in behind it, seemingly absorbing the light.

"It's Cresselia," Emily said in disbelief.

“You came back," Seth remarked, looking at Darkrai, who floated above the children.

Suddenly, Cresselia began to twirl around the room, its crescent-shaped pink lights flickering and illuminating the decaying building. The group was mesmerized, unable to look away.

"Daddy," Erin called out, looking up at him. "Daddy!" Seth embraced his son. Tears streamed down his eyes, unable to say anything.

Glenn stood, holding Ava tightly in his arms. One by one, the children started waking up, looking around with confusion.

The light from Cresselia gradually faded. Brian approached the Pokémon, coming so close that he could rest his hands on its beautiful body. "Thank you," he whispered. Cresselia locked eyes with Brian, its light nearly gone. It closed its eyes and dissipated into shimmering dust that floated peacefully along the floor.

Darkrai floated happily over the children, emanating his unique aura in a dark and eerie manner. Seth stood up, still holding his son, tears streaming down his face. "Thank you," he whispered gratefully. Erin, curious and captivated, pointed towards the mysterious Pokémon. Darkrai hesitated for a moment, then approached slowly before retracting.

"It's okay," Seth assured Erin and Darkrai both, before gently placing him on the ground. Erin walked closer to Darkrai and reached out, placing his hand on the Pokémon's dark form. Darkrai, suddenly absorbed into the ground, transforming into a shadow that stretched along the wall.

The shadow then morphed into an image of children lying down, seemingly asleep, with Darkrai and Cresselia as shadow figures appearing before them. Cresselia danced gracefully, and the children within the shadow image stood up, joining Darkrai in an ethereal dance. Erin clapped and laughed joyfully, completely enthralled by the shadow display. As the shadow faded, Darkrai reappeared, its presence once again solidified.

"It's true," Emily said as she walked up to Seth, observing Darkrai as it performed more shadow stories for the frightened and displaced children. "He really just wants to make people happy."

Seth nodded, his gaze fixed on the shadow representation of Flareon, Jolteon, and Vaporeon entering a towering structure. “This is how I beat Sabrina.”

"I don't think it wants to hurt anyone, Seth. It seems so peaceful," Emily explained. Suddenly, the shadow tower burst into flames, capturing the attention of all the children who gasped in awe.

Seth turned to Brian, "What do you think?"

Brian pondered for a moment before responding, "I believe we have no chance of winning without its help."

“And if the Pokéball doesn’t hold back the nightmares?” Emily asked.

“We will figure that out when we get to it.” Brian responded while watching the show Darkrai was putting on.

Seth agreed, determination etched on his face. "It cares about the kids, I will use that to force it."

Emily raised an eyebrow, expressing her skepticism. "That's fucked up." she remarked.

"Whatever it takes, Emily," Seth replied with conviction. As the shadows on the wall morphed, a majestic Ho-Oh flew overtop of the smoldering ruins. Emerging from the destroyed building the legendary beasts Raikou, Entei, and Suicune, sprinting off into the distance. The children erupted in applause, and Darkrai reappeared, radiating with delight.

Seth took a deep breath and addressed Darkrai boldly, "If you want to help the children get home, you can, but you must stay here, especially at night. Do you understand?" Darkrai soared towards the Pokéball in Seth's hand and pressed the button, disappearing inside and causing the ball to shake vigorously until it finally stilled.

IV​

The journey back to Commerce City was arduous and lengthy. Many of the children had suffered from dehydration, necessitating a day-long rest by a stream just outside Gardenia Town to regain their strength. The children were filled with fear and loneliness, wanting so desperately to see their parents. One girl, Judith, not even five-years-old, really hung onto Brian. And, of course Ava, found extreme comfort in his presence. Seth and Emily did their best to provide support for them. However, it was Darkrai who played a crucial role in preventing them from succumbing to their overwhelming fears.

Glenn, holding a small jar containing Charlotte's ashes, remained withdrawn and barely spoke, even to his daughter Ava, who was equally terrified. Erin managed to bring some laughter to Ava, but she would always return to her questions about Charlotte's whereabouts, denying her death. Finally, on the fourth day after finding them, Commerce City came into view.

As they entered the shanty town, gasps and cries of joy echoed through the air, enveloping everything in a wave of emotion that grew louder with each step. Tears streamed down the faces of parents as they rushed to embrace their long-lost children, holding them tightly in their arms.

The entire city seemed to come alive, converging towards them like a celebratory parade, showering them with love and gratitude. Seth, Emily, and Brian were engulfed in hugs and kisses from the grateful parents, overwhelmed by the outpouring of joy. Reaching the heart of the town, all the children were joyfully reunited with their loved ones, surrounded by the entire community, cheering and celebrating their return. Erin sat atop Torterra, his eyes wide with wonder and contentment, as the scent of food filled the air and the joyful sounds of dancing and singing filled the streets.

Never before had Erin witnessed such a lively event. Sure, he had seen Harold and his friends laugh on their porch, but this was on a whole different level. There were so many people, all filled with happiness. As he looked around, he noticed a few approaching his dad, Emily, Brian, and Glenn. Instead of joining in the celebration, they appeared sad and tears streamed down their faces. Glenn held onto a jar tightly, but he didn't know what was in it. But then, amidst the sorrow, he saw more people dancing and lifting their children high in the air, filled with joy and love.

The party carried on even as the sun began to set. Erin had never felt so full in his life. He had indulged in countless Spoink sausages, feeling his stomach reaching its limit. Ava, too, couldn't help but smile as they sat on Torterra, enjoying the food and the lively atmosphere around them.

As the darkness deepened, Seth began walking towards Erin, signaling that it was time to go to bed. However, the sound of clapping suddenly echoed through the air, drawing Seth's attention. The crowd started to part, revealing a group of individuals dressed entirely in black, accompanied by their Pokémon. Erin clutched onto his dad tightly, feeling an uneasy sense of fear as the man clapping had a sinister smirk on his face.

V​

"So this is where you all were hiding. Damn, a whole city fleeing like that. I'm almost impressed with your determination to oppose Giovanni," the Team Rocket member sneered, followed by thirty more men and women dressed in black.

A man stepped forward, attempting to explain, "Please, you don't understand. We were-" but his sentence was cut short as an Escavalier impaled its spear-like appendage through his chest, splattering blood on the people behind him, who began to scream.

"Really, I don't understand? Does anyone else want to question my intelligence?" Brian started to step forward, but Seth held him back, gripping his shoulder firmly. "I'm going to read off my list, as my patience is at an all-time low after trudging through the woods for weeks trying to find all of you. When I say your last name, stand over by us with your family. Holloway!" The team rocket members shouted.

The crowd fell silent as everyone looked around. Thirty seconds passed with no reply. "Very well, we'll play it like that," he said frustratingly, showing a picture to a Noctowl that flew overhead. Moments later, the Noctowl began hooting loudly. "Go get them, hurry," he instructed his subordinates, and five Team Rocket members disappeared into the crowd, screams for help reverberating through the air. Erin clutched Seth so tightly that it physically hurt.

"Please, no!" the father screamed as his family was forced to kneel in front of the main Rocket member.

"Now, my name is Allen Wade. I have been dispatched by-" The youngest child in the Holloway family began crying loudly, cutting his speech off. Allen then took his foot and slammed the child's head onto the ground with a sickening crack.

"Get off him!" the father screamed.

"I was talking. It's rude to talk over people. Now, unless you want to see his guts spewed out in front of you, shut up.” The dad looked up at him, his eyes filled with hate but didn't say a word. “Now, where was I? Ah, yes. I have been dispatched by Giovanni because so many of you have yet to pay us," Allen continued, his foot still pressing down on the child. "I will read off my list, and you will come up to us. If you fail to comply and I have to send my Noctowl to find you, you will end up like the Holloway family here. If you attempt to flee, you will be brought back to end up like the Holloway family here."

A Pyroar approached their side as Allen Wade lifted his foot off the boy, who remained motionless. "Flamethrower," Allen commanded, and before the mother could utter a plea, the four of them were engulfed in flames, their screams echoing through the air.

Emily looked at Seth, a fire in her eyes. "I don't care about our deal. I have to do something," she said firmly. Seth frantically grasped for her hand.

"Jarrett," Allen yelled, beginning to call out names.

Seth pleaded with Emily, "Look at them. They all have six Pokéballs on their belts. We are outmatched."

"Morse," Allen continued, the tension in the air escalating.

"I don't fucking care. I'm not letting them do this," Emily responded defiantly.

"Pennington," Allen shouted.

Erin was now crying on his father's shoulder, his sobs echoing through the tense atmosphere. "And if you do, how many will die as collateral in your act of bravery?" Seth explained.

"Richard," Allen reverberated.

Brian bit down on his hand tightly, blood streaming down as he fought the urge to move forward and intervene. Ava cried loudly on Torterra's back, while Glenn sat in front of him, clutching the jar tightly. "Emily, please go get Ava," Seth pleaded, his voice filled with worry.

"Sosa," Allen continued.

"I can't stand here and watch them die," Emily said resolutely, walking towards Ava.

"Warner," Allen declared.

"Then explain how you're going to save them," Seth snapped, his frustration evident.

"Zavier," Allen finally fell silent, leaving seven families kneeling before him, just behind the smoldering remains of the Holloways.

"This is only going to get worse, Seth," Emily said, her eyes filled with worry.

"Now, I will give one adult the opportunity of ten minutes to retrieve your belongings and hand me your taxes. If you comply, your family can make it out and be given the chance to pay us for another year. If you don't, well, we will deal with that." Allen said, chuckling at the end.

Three men and a woman; Mr. Jarrett, Mr. Zavier, Mrs. Sosa and Mr. Pennington ran frantically out of the circle. The others, Mr. Richard, Mr. Morse, and Mr. Warner remained going from person to person desperately pleading for money. One man, Mr. Morse, not much older than Seth, pleaded to him begging for money. Seth turned his head and held on to Erin desperately hoping for this moment to end. Sarah's grotesque and decaying face was hanging over the crowd. He then approached Brian, pleading, "Please, I just need $12,000. Please, don't let them kill my kids."

Brian looked at him, with compassion in his eyes. "It's okay," he reassured the man, pulling down his backpack and searching through it.

Seth tried to intervene, “Brian that's almost everything you have,” but his words were silenced by Brian's glare.

"Here you go. Save them," Brian said, handing Mr. Morse the money.

"Thank you," he said, embracing them with gratitude. The next seven minutes passed in stone silence as the failed pleas for money continued. The other seeing Brian's compassion flocked towards him begging, he tried to explain that's all he had but they wouldn't leave. Brian's eyes became red, clearly holding back tears. Three of the people who ran out of the circle returned, their faces filled with hope as they handed the money to Allen. The others, holding back sobs, returned empty-handed. "Your ten minutes are up. Pay now," Allen said bluntly, his tone conveying his impatience.

The three families and the Morses hurried back into the crowd, tears streaming down their faces. The remaining three families knelt down, their pleas becoming quieter louder as the seconds, minutes, stretched on.

Suddenly, Mr. Pennington came screaming back into the circle, “I’m here! I’m here!”

"Great," Allen remarked. "Pay me." Mr. Pennington handed him the money, a smile on his face as he looked at his family. "Now, because you were late, pick two," Allen declared.

"But I paid you $40,000," he pleaded.

"And I said ten minutes," Allen replied matter-of-factly.

"Please," the father begged.

"If you make me wait any longer, you will watch them all die." Mr. Pennington solemnly walked over, taking his two children by the hand, leaving his pleading wife behind. "No!" Allen shouted. "I said two, and that includes you." The father stared at him in disbelief. "Now, Mr. Pennington!" Allen ordered.

“I am sorry,” he said as he sat the youngest child down by his mother. As the boy began crying a Team Rocket member held him down with his foot.

"Well, folks, let's get on with it. You there," Allen said, pointing at Brian. Brian pointed to himself, confused. "Yes, you. You were so helpful to that family, really quite brave. Could you help me out?" Brian stood still, not knowing how to respond. "Grab him!" Two huge Team Rocket members swiftly moved towards Brian, restraining him and forcing him to kneel before Allen. "Oh, please, sir. I know your kind. You love helping. I'm sure you will love to help me as well," Allen said, smirking. "Kill them."

"You sick fuck. I won't do it!" Brian exclaimed, standing up and trying to appear larger, even though he felt like a speck.

"YOU WILL FUCKING DO AS YOU'RE TOLD, OR I WILL BURN THIS WHOLE FUCKING TOWN!" Allen roared. Brian stood there, tears streaming down his face, as he looked at the kids who were just saved, hesitating still. "You think I'm playing? Get me the girl he was with." A Machamp began walking towards Emily, Seth, and Glenn.

"No! Get the fuck off her!" Emily screamed. The Machamp grabbed Emily, ripping Ava out of her arms and throwing her to the ground. Glenn sank to the floor, clutching the jar.

"Kill them now, or I will start with the girl!" Allen yelled. Brian's hand trembled as he reached for his pokéball, but Allen's voice cut through the tension. "No, you won't be needing that," Allen said coolly, as Machamp held Ava's head, her screams piercing the air. Allen threw a knife in front of Brian. "There you go. Don't make me wait, or this girl here will join them on the line."

Three families were lined up, five adults and three children, all forced to the ground. Brian held the knife tightly in his shaking hand, his breaths rapid and erratic. He knelt down beside the first person, a father squirming under the weight of the Team Rocket member holding him down. "Don't do this!" the man cried out.

“I… I… I…” Brian struggled to speak, his words barely audible between his breaths. ”With the knife held over the man's neck, Seth turned around and shielded Erin's view.

Thwump!

Emily stood there, one hand covering her mouth, the other gripping Seth's shoulder tightly it felt like she was going to snap it in half.

Thwump!

Glenn stared at Ava, still clutching the jar, muttering "Not her" over.

Thwump!

And over.

Thwump!

Ahhhhhh! Brian let out a gut-wrenching scream.

Thwump!

"Please stop this," Brian pleaded, but Allen only smiled.

Thwump!

His cries mixed with the anguish of the prisoners, their echoes reverberating through the streets of Commerce.

Thwump!

"I am so sorry," he cried. Looking at Judith's crying eyes.

Thwump!

Brian threw the knife away as if it was burning through his flesh. He clutching his stomach as he vomited amidst his sobs.

"Release her," Allen Wade demanded. Machamp let go of Ava, and she ran towards her dad, who held her tightly and kissed her forehead. "Now, listen carefully. If I have to search for any of you again, I will not be so kind next time. You will not have 10 minutes to return what you owe. You will simply be killed." The Team Rocket members and their Pokémon dispersed from the crowd, leaving behind an eerie silence.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 12​

Too Far Gone​

I still don't sleep, and I don't trust myself

To be the stronger for you

It’s all so strange and I don’t recognize

Faces of ones I adore

I’ll try my best to keep moving forward

But, there’s wounds that can’t be ignored​

- The Plot In You​

I​

Ava and Seth laughed joyfully as they played in the crystal-clear waters of a nearby stream. The sunlight danced on the surface, creating a shimmering display of colors. The air was filled with the sweet scent of nature, and the sounds of Chatot singing added to the symphony of nature. A group of playful Squirtles emerged from the water, their shells glistening with droplets. With mischievous grins, they launched bubbles towards Ava and Seth. The bubbles sparkled in the sunlight as they floated through the air, eliciting delighted giggles from the children. Not to be outdone, Ava and Seth gathered handfuls of water and sent powerful waves crashing towards the Squirtles. The waves splashed against their targets, drenching the Pokémon in a playful retaliation. Laughter echoed through the serene surroundings as the friendly water battle continued.

Seth, Glenn, and Emily sat gathered around the crackling fire, the warm glow casting flickering shadows on their faces. Brian stood at his makeshift table, diligently preparing a meal that had become a symbol of comfort in their camp. He carefully crafted the perfect broth and reached for the knife, ready to slice the meat. But as he picked up the blade, he saw her innocent face held down by the grimy scared riddled hand of a Team Rocket member. Judith pleaded, her voice filled with desperation, begging to be allowed to return home. A distant voice called his name, growing louder and more urgent.

"Brian!" Seth's voice finally broke through, snapping him out of his trance. "Are you okay?"

Brian blinked, momentarily disoriented. His hand shaking so much he couldn't believe the blade didn't fly out of his grasp. "Yeah, sorry, what were you saying?"

Seth sighed, then continued, "We'll be reaching Saffron tomorrow. We need to strategize on how to confront Sabrina."

Brian nodded while ripping the meat with his hands, "Darkrai, right?" he asked.

"Yes, but there are a couple of challenges. First, I still need to convince him to help us. And second, only one of us can use him." Seth explained.

Glenn interjected, "Darkrai seems terrified of causing harm. How do you plan to persuade him?"

"He is so terrified of being alone that I will be threatening that,." Seth responded bluntly.

"Do you realize how asinine that is?" Emily questioned. "Darkrai had no knowledge of the Hypno den and tried to fucking fix it. On top of all of that he blamed himself, " Emily argued passionately.

Seth countered, "Are you really going to lecture me about moral high ground?

“Yes, I've killed dozens of those fucking bastards for what they did to me, but I never forced anyone into it. My Pokémon supported me and my decisions." Emily stood her ground, her voice resolute.

"I will do whatever it takes to protect him." Seth's reply dripped with bitterness,

"And Team Rocket does whatever it can to protect them," she replied. The tension lingered in the air as they grappled with the complexity of their choices and the weight of their pasts.

Ignoring Emily's disapproval, Seth turned to Brian, a determined look in his eyes. "You ready?" he asked, his voice steady. Brian took a deep breath and nodded, a mix of anticipation and apprehension written on his face. With a sense of purpose, Seth reached down and released Darkrai from its Poké Ball.

As the bright sunlight filtered through the surrounding trees, the intense blackness of Darkrai's body contrasted heavily with it. His gaze shifted from one member of the group to another, confusion evident in its expression. However, its attention was quickly drawn to Erin and Ava, who were happily engaged in their play.

"Darkrai," Seth called out, "We need your help." The Pokémon turned around, its ethereal form floating back towards the group. Emily watched, shaking her head.

"We need you to fight," Brian said, his voice was flat as he ran his fingers through his black hair. Darkrai shifted and transformed his body into the shadow on the ground, catching the group's attention. They watched intently, trying to discern the Pokémon's feelings and intentions. The shadow eventually took the form of smaller versions of Darkrai, holding hands with people and other Pokémon.

He emerged from the shadow, his intense gaze fixed upon them with his single, piercing blue eye. The gravity of the situation was palpable as they exchanged silent understanding.

"In order to protect the ones we love, sometimes we have to fight," Seth spoke, his words carrying a sense of conviction. Glenn couldn't help but snicker at the irony of it all. The last time he witnessed such violence, he had lost a daughter. But Darkrai's response was immediate and emphatic, vigorously shaking his head.

Seth's desperation grew as he pleaded with Darkrai to join them in the fight. He pointed towards the children playing in the stream, emphasizing the need to protect them. "If you truly want to help them find safety," Seth implored, "then you have to fight."

Darkrai once again took his shadowy form and began to shift and contort, transforming into a terrifying version of itself. Its eyes grew sharp and focused, the swirling smoke forming jagged edges as it rose and dissipated. The lower face of its necklace snapped shut, creating a menacing jaw. Two children, presumably Ava and Erin, witnessing this horrifying manifestation, instinctively ran away in fear.

Frustration boiled within Seth, and he couldn't hold back his anger any longer. "If you won't help us," he yelled, "then get the fuck out of here!" Darkrai, halfway emerged from the ground, seemed to reflect a somber expression. Fear in his blue eye was clear as it shot between each member of the group and finally fixed on the kids.

Emily watched with apprehension, her hand gripping her pants tightly. Seth took a deep breath, trying to find a compromise. “We'll part ways with Ava and Glenn after Saffron City.” The group, specifically Glenn, stared at him confused about the point he was trying to make. “But before that, help us in one battle. If you do, you can stay and protect Ava. Deal?"

Glenn’s confusion disappeared as he nodded in agreement. All eyes turned back to Darkrai, waiting for its response. After a moment of contemplation, Darkrai nodded, silently agreeing to join them in the fight. It drifted back towards its Pokéball, without even sparing a glance at Seth.

"Wait," Seth said abruptly, his voice tinged with urgency, halting Darkrai from returning to its Pokéball. He turned back towards Seth, its serious gaze locked on him, still harboring a hint of anger. Seth took a deep breath, meeting Darkrai's gaze head-on. "We need to understand what you can do."

Darkrai drifted back a few feet, a dark ball forming between its hands. The ball, as black as Darkrai's body, rotated violently, emanating an ominous energy. "And what is that supposed to do?" Seth asked, skepticism clearly evident.

Without a word, Darkrai launched the dark ball from its hands, shooting it towards Seth with alarming speed. Seth attempted to evade the attack, leaping out of the way, but his reactions were too slow. The expanding ball engulfed Seth, obscuring him from sight. In an instant, Seth vanished within the void-like sphere.



As the ball dissipated, Seth collapsed to the ground falling hard without the ability to brace himself. Darkrai, seemingly satisfied with its demonstration, floated back towards its Pokéball, disappearing from sight once again. The group stood in silence, a mix of shock and concern filling the air.

II

​

A beam of light pierced through the eternal darkness that had surrounded Seth, gradually growing brighter until he found himself standing in a serene, lush green valley. The calmness of the surroundings was interrupted only by the gentle nearby stream and the soft rustling of leaves in the breeze. In the distance, a faint roar could be heard, adding to the mysterious ambiance.

Though Seth tried to move his body, he found himself unable to do so, compelled to follow along as if under some external control. Thoughts raced through his mind as he tried to comprehend where he was and what was happening. The body he inhabited turned around, taking in the breathtaking scenery, the wind tugging at the trees, and a Darkrai but smaller than the one in their company, trailing behind him.

As they continued, Seth's attention was drawn to a young girl happily playing, skipping along the rocky terrain near the edge of the forest. The two Darkrai drifted closer to her, their presence looming. However, before they could reach her, a massive Ursaring emerged, lashing out and shattering a nearby tree with its powerful swipe. It prowled towards the frightened girl, who instinctively stepped back, her eyes locked on the formidable creature in fear.

Forced into action, Seth's host swiftly evaded Ursaring's initial attack and lifted it off the ground using Psychic. With its hand pressed against the struggling Ursaring, Seth's host unleashed a powerful Thunderbolt, coursing through the creature's body. Ursaring convulsed, its eyes seeming to melt as blood trickled from its sockets, until Darkrai released its Psychic hold, allowing the corpse of Ursaring to collapse to the ground.

Turning his attention back to the girl, who morphed into Erin, Seth's heart sank. Instead of finding relief or gratitude, he appeared even more petrified, letting out a piercing scream as he fled in terror.

They pressed on, desperate to ensure the safety of the young girl, their attempts at stealth failing as they neared the girl's village. Pink cone-shaped tents dotted the ground, and as people emerged from their shelters, curiosity turned to alarm as she pointed directly at their group. Panic set in, and Seth grabbed the hand of the younger Darkrai, urging them to flee, but the villagers quickly closed in on them.

Pokémon encircled them, and an Infernape unleashed flames, the scorching heat bearing down on them. Seth was forced to position himself in front, shielding the child Darkrai from harm. The intensity of the flames was overwhelming, but fueled by his determination to protect, Seth retaliated. He conjured swirling orbs of shadow, launching them with precision at the Infernape, Typhlosion, Stantler, and Gastrodon. The impact twisted their bodies, blood spurting forth as they writhed in agony.

As Seth turned, he witnessed a devastating blow. Gallade's fist extended from the smaller Darkrai, the piercing blue eye fixated on Seth, filled with fear and pain. In an instant, the eye dulled, the gaze becoming lifeless as the small Darkrai went limp on the outstretched green fist. Darkrai cried out in anguish as the other Pokémon drew nearer, their intentions clear. Gallade callously discarded the child Darkrai to the side.

Gathering his strength and resolve, Darkrai summoned a colossal pitch-black sphere overhead, swinging it down with a tremendous force. The villagers and their Pokémon were consumed by the void, their bodies falling limply to the ground. Darkrai scooped up his son, tearing away from the village.

III​

Seth jolted upright, gasping for breath. As his surroundings came into focus, he found Emily, Brian, and Glenn sitting around him. "You damn well know you deserved that!" Emily exclaimed, her voice filled with far too much happiness.

"What happened?" Seth inquired, still trying to grasp the situation.

"Darkrai hit you, after you sort of asked for it," Glenn explained matter-of-factly. "That black sphere thing knocked you out cold."

"How long was I out?" Seth pressed further.

"About an hour," Brian replied, providing the answer.

"Alright, enough wasting time. Let's get going to Saffron," Seth declared, struggling to rise to his feet.

"Wait, what did you see while you were asleep?" Emily asked, her curiosity piqued.

Seth hesitated for a moment, his eyes averting Emily's gaze. "Just Sarah," he replied in a cool tone, but there was a hint of something hidden in his response.

IV​

Saffron City stood before them, a sprawling metropolis that dwarfed anything they had seen before. The towering skyscrapers seemed to pierce the very clouds above, while the Team Rocket wall appeared minuscule in comparison to the grandeur of the city's infrastructure. Amongst the multitude of buildings, one structure stood out with its slight incline on the right side and windows adorned with a distinctive crisscrossing design. Etched across the top of the building in bold letters was the name "Silph Co."

As they marveled at the city, Brian turned to Glenn, who was busy cleaning his glasses with his shirt. "Are you nervous?" Brian inquired, his own face betraying a hint of unease.

Glenn paused for a moment, then replied, "Not too much. After all, they were the ones who reached out to me. But the real question is, are you nervous?" He locked eyes with Brian, his grip tightening as he held his hand.

"Nah," Brian answered with a nonchalant shrug, though his expression contradicted his words.

"You don't have to do this. Stay with me, Char-, Ava," Glenn pleaded, his gaze filled with sincerity.

"I'm doing this for you and Ava. I didn't have a purpose before, but now I do. I want to save you guys," Brian declared, returning Glenn's firm grip. “I failed you once and that wont happen again.”

Glenn's grip tightened even more as he implored, "Then save us by staying here with us. You know what it's like in the major cities. We'll be fine. Please, stay."

"Ava deserves happiness, just like Erin. I'm doing this for you," Brian stated, his smile masking his inner insecurities. It was a smile that he struggled to maintain, a facade of confidence to conceal his own doubts.

"Are you ready?" Seth asked, placing a reassuring hand on Brian's shoulder.

"Yeah.”

"Alright, Erin, do you want to come with us and watch the gym fight or stay with Emily?" Seth asked turning to Erin

“This fucking sucks. I hate being stuck out of these parts.” Emily grumbled.

Erin pondered for a moment, then exclaimed, "I want to watch! Torterra, follow Dad!" The massive Torterra yawned lazily carrying Ava and Erin and began slowly moving away from Emily.

Seth smiled and nodded, waving goodbye. "Alright, Emily, we'll see you after the fight."

Emily smirked and playfully flipped him off. "Good luck. Don't you dare hurt Vaporeon!" she called out with a mischievous grin.

V​

Sabrina lounged on her small throne, her feet propped up as the vibrant Team Rocket "R" logo gleamed behind her. Elaborate statues of Psychic-type Pokémon, including Alakazam, Gardevoir, Slowking, Metagross, and more, stood proudly behind her, creating an imposing presence. The battlefield lay before her, flat and devoid of any hiding spots.

She was growing weary of the monotony, one challenger after another failing to present a worthwhile challenge. While she appreciated Team Rocket for eliminating the weaklings early in her career, that is why she wore their emblem on her chest. Their recent failures were evident in the last year of imposing gym challengers. As she twirled a lock of her bluish-grey hair around her slender fingers, the dimly lit gym was momentarily illuminated by a sliver of light, signaling the arrival of two men, a boy and a Vulpix.

"Wow, look at that!" exclaimed the excited child perched on his father's shoulders, pointing at the grandeur of the arena. “And that! And that!”

Sabrina descended the staircase of her throne, growing increasingly irritated with each step. The incessant words spewing from the child's mouth only served to intensify her frustration. As she moved through her gym, the lights casting an eerie glow that she reveled in, she could discern the appearance of her upcoming opponents.

The scrawny man with a beard, his attention fixated on the "R" printed on her shirt, began to speak, "We are here to compete in the league challenge. We have…"

"I don't care how many badges you have," Sabrina interrupted sharply, her impatience evident. "And you as well?" she turned her gaze to the muscular man with olive skin and slick black hair, who nodded in response.

"You two will team up against me. How many Pokémon do you have between the two of you?" Sabrina inquired, her tone dripping with disdain.

"We have nine in total," the father replied calmly. Sabrina recognized that expression, the one that saw her as a mere obstacle. She relished in the anticipation of watching that expression crumble into horror as she crushed their arrogance. To think they hadn't even brought a full team of six Pokémon each—it was downright insulting.

"I will still use my six, while you can use all of yours. We will have a double battle," Sabrina declared firmly.

"You're not giving us an option," the man with olive skin retorted.

"No," Sabrina commanded, ready to prove her superiority in battle.

VI​

Sabrina tossed her Pokéballs into the air, releasing a burst of red light that filled the space before cascading down to the ground. Emerging from the light were Alakazam and Mr. Mime, both Pokémon taking their positions on the battlefield. Alakazam stood menacingly, holding his spoons and scanning the surroundings with his piercing gaze, seeking Sabrina's approval. Mr. Mime, on the other hand, was fidgeting back and forth in front of Alakzam, preparing his defenses for any possible scenario.

The man with the beard whispered something into the ear of the muscular man, but Sabrina dismissed it as useless. They were no match for her. She, who had become the youngest gym leader in history with the highest defeat count, wondered what feeble strategy they could possibly have in store for her.

"Alakazam, remain cautious and be prepared to strike. Mr. Mime, focus on defense," Sabrina commanded, her voice dripping with cool confidence. With a nod, the opponents released their first two Pokémon onto the battlefield. A gleaming golden Vulpix dashed forward, baring its teeth, followed by the flashing red light of an elegant Vaporeon.

"Let the battle begin," Sabrina declared, her icy demeanor unwavering. The audacity of their challenge, attempting to face her with under-evolved Pokémon, only fueled her eagerness to extinguish their misplaced pride.

"Alakazam, use Psychic!" Sabrina's voice echoed through the battlefield. Vulpix cried out in pain as Alakazam exerted its telekinetic power, crushing the poor Pokémon from the outside in with an invisible force.

"Brian, now!" the bearded man shouted urgently.

"Vaporeon, break the line of sight with Waterfall!" Brian commanded. Vaporeon leaped above Vulpix, and a torrent of water gushed out of its mouth and body, enveloping the area. "Now, Ice Beam. Freeze the water!" Vaporeon descended while unleashing an icy beam, instantly turning the water into a solid wall of ice and freeing Vulpix from Alakazam's grip.

"Seth, do it!" Brian suggested, clearly hoping for a breakthrough. But Sabrina sneered, finding their attempts meaningless. She didn't even need to command her Pokémon; they already knew exactly what she wanted.

"Vulpix, use Flamethrower!" Seth shouted, his face filled with shock as he realized his Vulpix and Vaporeon were trapped behind the ice barrier. Mr. Mime was behind a newly created reflective barrier to their right, creating a new line of sight between them and Alakazam. The powerful Psychic Pokémon continued its assault, mercilessly crushing both of their Pokémon.

"Recall them or they die!" Sabrina's voice rang out, her frustration evident. She felt tempted to just end their suffering due to their feeble attempts at strategy, as they had insulted her with their amateurish tactics.

"Fine," Seth conceded defeat. He called back his Pokémon, and Alakazam released its grip. Vulpix struggled to walk back, stumbling a few times, while Vaporeon was swiftly recalled back into the Pokéball disappearing.

"If that's the level of strategy you're going to use, then give up now and spare yourself the embarrassment in front of your kid!" Sabrina yelled out in frustration. Two more Pokémon emerged before her, a Primeape and Ceruledge. She couldn't help but feel a sense of pity for their poor choices. Coming at her with a Fighting-type Pokémon was truly pathetic. Has anyone been this careless around her? The scar over its eye demonstrates the trainer's inability.

"Flash!" Brian commanded. Ceruledge's purple flames intensified, growing brighter and brighter until the entire battlefield was nearly blinding.

Sabrina shielded her eyes, only to hear Seth's voice calling out, "Fire Punch!" She had to look away just as Primeape's fist collided with Ceruledge's side of its fiery blade and dragged upwards. The light was too intense for her to bear.

"Defense!" Sabrina quickly yelled out. The blinding light finally subsided, revealing Primeape's flaming fist mere inches away from Mr. Mime, held back by another but invisible barrier.

"Brick Break!" Seth roared, and Primeape's second hand came crashing down, shattering the barrier. The flaming fist connected with Mr. Mime, sending him hurtling across the room, slamming into the wall. Meanwhile, Alakazam raised his hands, pointing his spoons towards Primeape, causing the fighting Pokémon to crumble to the ground.

"Save him, Ceruledge!" Brian commanded with urgency. Ceruledge raised its swords and charged towards her Alakazam, determination etched on its face. Primeape, propelled by an unseen force, hurtled towards Ceruledge, who swiftly dodged the oncoming teammate. Primeape crashed into the wall behind Seth and Brian falling hard to the ground.

With a resounding strike, Ceruledge brought its sword down upon Alakazam. However, to Brian's dismay, the attack fell short, thwarted by yet another impenetrable barrier. Brian’s frustration was visible to Sabrina as he recalled Mr. Mime fidgeting in front of Alakzam before the fight.

"Shadow Ball!" Sabrina said calmly. Brian roared for Ceruledge to get out of there, but it was too late. Alakazam used Psychic to hold Ceruledge in place while forming a swirling purple blob. The blob shot forward, colliding with Ceruledge's chest, causing her to fly and skid along the ground before coming to a stop in front of Brian. Her chest armor was twisted inward, and blood began to seep out.

Primeape, who had managed to stand up, collapsed once again. Seth walked over to Primeape, placing a hand on his back, “Are you okay?” he asked, but there was no response. Seth then recalled Primeape back into his Pokéball. "How's Ceruledge?" Seth asked Brian.

"For now, she's okay, but we need to get her help," Brian replied, concern evident in his voice. He dragged Ceruledge behind them, realizing with alarm that he wasn't burned by the touch. He placed a rag over her chest and applied pressure to stop the bleeding. "Vulpix, make sure she doesn't get too cold. Erin, can you watch over Ceruledge?"

"Uh-huh," Erin replied before sitting next to the injured Pokémon.

A red light shot forward, releasing Mr. Mime from its collapsed state. “Clever, let's see how you handle this," she taunted. With a swift throw, Wobbuffet emerged from its Pokéball.

Seth walked back to the field, ruffling his son's hair, and asked Brian if he was ready. "Yeah," Brian confirmed, and they simultaneously released their Pokéballs. Fraxure dragged its tusks along the ground, creating sparks, while Noivern screeched loudly, fixating its gaze on Alakazam.

Erin called out with pride, “You got this Noivern!” Sabrina scoffed internally, finding it ridiculous to rely on another unevolved Pokémon.

"Noivern, Boomburst at Alakazam!" Seth commanded. Noivern's ears began to pulsate, emitting a sharp, piercing sound that collided with Alakazam like a physical force. Alakazam, overwhelmed by the assault, fell to its knees, clutching its ears in pain.

Brian seized the opportunity, “Fraxure attack with Dragon Claw! Remove Alakazam from the field.” Fraxure charged forward, leaping to strike its opponent. Typical strategy and fucking ignorant at that she thought.

Sabrina quickly called out to Wobbuffet, “Counter.” Wobbuffet appeared in front of Alakazam, and Fraxure's tusk was impaled into its body, causing no blood to seep out. The force of Fraxure's attack drove Wobbuffet into the ground and flung it back, colliding with Fraxure, who was thrown toward Noivern. Noivern, in an effort to evade the attack, halted its assault on Alakazam.

Brian called out to Fraxure, but the Pokémon remained completely unconscious. Seth urgently called for its recall, but Sabrina simply smirked, reveling in the momentum she had gained in the battle.

"Alakazam, go!" Sabrina commanded, seizing the advantage to force Noivern to the ground. As Brian recalled Fraxure, Seth responded by releasing Torterra from its Pokéball directly behind the ice wall.

"Torterra, Grassy Terrain!" Seth called out. Torterra stomped down, roots ripped out of the ground, and trees began to grow, blocking Noivern and freeing him from Alakazam's grasp.

"Seth, we have to find a way to defeat Alakazam," Sabrina overheard Brian saying.

"I know," Seth replied, glancing back at Erin. "This is your team, buddy. Do you think they can handle it?"

"Yuporni!" Erin confidently called out.

"I saw Fraxure driving its tusk into Wobbuffet, but there was no blood," Brian shared with Seth.

"Yeah, I saw that too," Seth responded, nodding in agreement. “It used its body almost like a shield. Noivern, same plan, distract Alakazam," Sabrina overheard Seth calling out. She played with her hair, displaying a nonchalant attitude towards the ongoing battle.

Noivern darted out from behind the trees, only to be immediately brought down by Alakazam, and began screeching in pain.

"Earthquake!" Brian's commanding voice reverberated through the stadium. The ground trembled as Wobbuffet and Alakazam lost their balance, with Wobbuffet's body getting trapped between two broken pieces of the floor. Its black tail hung out.

"Noivern, Boomburst!" Taking flight once again, Noivern aimed its large circular ears towards Alakazam, who yelled out in suffering groans.

"Wobbuffet, Mirror Coat," Sabrina called out, but she was stunned when Wobbuffet failed to respond. She looked over and noticed vines entangling its black tail.

"Giga Drain, Torterra!" Brian's voice rang out. Wobbuffet's black tail began to wither as the vines connected to Torterra's feet, sapping its energy.

Sabrina quickly recalled Wobbuffet and turned her attention to Alakazam, still forced to the ground. Worry started to creep onto her face.

"Noivern, get behind Alakazam and use Dragon Pulse!" Seth commanded. Noivern, still emitting its sharp sound, glided behind Alakazam, and a purplish energy shot out of its mouth, crashing into Alakazam and sending it rolling across the ground. Before it could come to a stop, Sabrina swiftly recalled her Pokémon. By this point, she was visibly fuming. How could these weaklings defeat half of her team, she thought. No, it didn't matter. She would make sure to punish them here and now.

"What's wrong, Sabrina? You look different somehow," Brian taunted, trying to provoke her. She simply smirked and released two more Pokémon from her hand. Musharna and Medicham materialized before them, and a pink mist began to fill the arena from Musharna.

"Noivern, use Air Cutter on Medicham!" Seth commanded. However, he noticed that Noivern wasn't paying attention. It wasn't even looking at its opponents, and the same was true for Torterra. Noivern started darting up and down, seemingly biting at nothing, while Torterra stomped repeatedly on the stadium floor, targeting an invisible enemy. Seth stared at the back of the stadium, frozen in fear. “Sarah. Sarah. Sarah.” he repeated.

Brian crumbled to the ground, repeatedly yelling "no." The boy started crying while clinging onto Vulpix. Sabrina reveled in this moment. "Good work, Musharna," she said, admiring how her opponents succumbed to their nightmares caused by Musharna's mist. "Ice Punch," she whispered. Medicham, accustomed to the mist, tensed its fist as frost formed around it. The air seemed frozen as it shot forward, slamming its fist into Torterra, sending it crashing to the ground.

Seth snapped back to reality upon hearing the thud of his Pokémon and immediately recalled Torterra. He looked around and saw Brian and Erin screaming in fear. Picking up the boy, he threw his Pokéball up with a smile. Sabrina couldn't understand how he could still be smiling in this situation. Suddenly, a black void emerged, spewing white smoke from the top, and a blue eye focused intensely on her. "There's no way!" she exclaimed. She had read stories about Darkrai, but they were extinct. How was one here now?

"Sucker Punch!" Seth roared. Darkrai disappeared from sight and reappeared, colliding its fist into Musharna. She fell to the ground, the mist dissipating as she failed to get back up. Noivern shook its head, erasing the nightmare from its mind.

"Daddy, there were Drowzees coming for me, and..." Erin cried, recounting the horrors of the nightmare.

"It's okay, buddy. It's over now," Seth reassured him, trying to calm him down.

He then turned to Brian, who jolted upright, “Judith,” he screamed. "What the fuck was that?" he yelled back at Sabrina, but she was too engrossed in observing Darkrai to pay attention to his outburst.

Sabrina composed herself and released her last Pokémon. Gothitelle emerged, its black body standing tall before her. "This is what I'm talking about!" she roared, a wide smile spreading across her face. "Finally, a challenge!"

"Darkrai, Dark Void!" Brian yelled.

"Noivern, Air Cutter!" Seth commanded.

"Gothitelle, Thunderbolt! Medicham, High Jump Kick!" Sabrina screamed simultaneously.

The attacks collided, but Sabrina's Pokémon were simply too quick and well-trained. Electric energy shot out from Gothitelle’s hands, slamming into Noivern and sending it crashing to the ground once again. As Darkrai formed its dark orb, Medicham's foot connected with its side, propelling Darkrai towards the ground alongside Noivern. Gothitelle used Psychic to take control of Noivern, beating it to the ground. Darkrai rose up, forming the orb once more, but Gothitelle used Noivern's body as a weapon, striking Darkrai and causing both Pokémon to crash and roll on the ground. Darkrai stood up, but Noivern remained completely motionless.

"A legendary won't do anything against me. I am the strongest trainer in Kanto!" Sabrina yelled confidently.

"You claim to be the strongest, yet you team up with an omnipotent force like Team Rocket, only challenging weak and beaten opponents," Sabrina’s smile faded upon his words, not from blatant disrespect but possible agreement. "Are you ready, Seth?" Brian retorted as Seth recalled Noivern.

"Yeah, let's end this," Seth replied with a smile. B

He threw the Pokéball up, and a pink blob materialized with an unrealistic smile fixed upon it. Sabrina, completely confused, questioned, "What is that?"

"Ask the guys you work for," Seth answered. "Transform!" The blob grew larger until a second Darkrai appeared, its blue eye peering at Sabrina. She couldn't help but burst into laughter. Finally, she had been begging for something difficult. Now the opportunity to fight against two Darkrais. It was too good to be true.

"Ditto, use Dark Pulse!" Brain yelled out. Darkness emanated from the new Darkrai, engulfing the battlefield and making it impossible to see anything.

"Dark Void!" both Brian and Seth shouted into the darkness. When the darkness finally dissipated, both Gothitelle and Medicham were on the ground, writhing in pain.

VII​

"Recall them or I will end it!" Seth called out, a disgustingly large smile plastered on his face.

"I surrender," Sabrina said calmly. She called out Musharna, now conscious, who floated towards her two sleeping Pokémon, waking them up, and then walked past them towards her opponents. Snaking her way between the newly grown trees that littered her battlefield.

As Sabrina held out the two badges, Brain scoffed at her. "If you were really the strongest, you would be helping out Kanto by fighting those you worship.” Brian was pointing at the letter R printed across her jacket.

Sabrina unzipped it and tossed it to the ground. Staring at both Seth and Brian. "Take these and get out." Gothitelle gracefully walked next to her trainer and lowered itself towards Erin.

"What is it doing?" Seth asked protectively, concerned for his son.

"I don't know," Sabrina responded curiously.

Gothitelle began to weep in front of Erin. Without thinking, Erin, with his kind soul, simply hugged Gothitelle and said, "It's okay, I'm sorry you lost."

Sabrina gazed back towards Seth and Brian, her usual confident demeanor wavering for a moment. "I...," she hesitated, struggling to find the right words to respond. It was a rare occurrence for her to feel at a loss, especially after her defeat. Brian's words had struck a nerve, hitting closer to the truth than she cared to admit. "You can use the Pokémon Center, especially for her," she pointed to Ceruledge, still lying unconscious, but her flames slightly more noticeable. "Tell the receptionist I sent you, there should be no problems."

They stared at her in disbelief, shocked by her sudden act of kindness. She turned around and recalled her three Pokémon back to the Pokéballs. She walked along her torn-up battlefield, the usual eerie glow casting down on her confident appearance. However, inside, that confidence had never been so shaken.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 13​

Writing On the Walls​

I swear we need to find some comfort in this

Run down place

To bridge the gap of this conscious state that we live in

And I'm short on time​

- Underoath​

I​

"Your Pokémon are now healed. Ceruledge will still need a few weeks to recover. She is okay and stable enough for travel, but her chest plate will be concave," the front desk receptionist said to Brian and Seth, handing them a tray of their eight Pokéballs. Vulpix jumped on the counter, emitting a high-pitched yipping sound towards the young woman with long pink hair. She pleasantly petted Vulpix, "We hope to see you again."

Seth felt irritated hearing the words "Hope to see you again," as if this was some sort of right they had. Without Sabrina's approval, they would have been out of luck. He turned towards Brian walking to the exit of the Pokémon Center, asking, "Did you ever get to use these facilities in Pewter City?"

"No," Brian responded, running his hand through his hair. "They were pretty much reserved only for Team Rocket, Brock and his staff, or the wealthy." Seth simply nodded while pushing open the front door.

"Erin, do you want to walk or ride on Torterra?" Seth inquired.

"Walk," Erin replied quietly. Both Brian and Seth abruptly looked down at Erin, who was uncharacteristically silent. They noticed him looking around at the families on the street—kids playing with their young parents, and his focus on the moms. Seth ruffled his hair, and as Erin looked up to him, Seth gave him a playful smile which he returned, though not as brightly as Seth had hoped for.

The number of Team Rocket members in Saffron City was beyond anything Seth could comprehend. Even Brian seemed taken aback by their overwhelming presence. They weren't merely a foreign occupying force; instead, they seemed like an integrated pillar of the community. Citizens openly conversed with them, treating them almost like the old police force from Seth's childhood. He scoffed loudly, catching Brian's attention. "I will never get used to this," Seth muttered.

"After Commerce City, I will never be the same. But for them… it’s… it's peace in ignorance. Say what you will, but if Erin was born here and you lived here before the takeover, you would feel the same," Brian responded.

"What would it take to make major cities rebel against Team Rocket?" Seth questioned genuinely.

"Optics. Most of these people, like us, can't remember life before the war. If the gym leaders openly opposed them, that might change something, but safety is all that matters to them. Whether we like it or not, these people feel safe under Team Rocket's rule," Brian explained.

The streets leading south were incredibly bright in the evening sun. The breeze carried away the summer heat and ushered in the pleasant coolness of fall. Erin's curly black hair danced in the wind, and the sun's radiance reflected off his skin, just like his mother's. Suddenly, Sarah's form appeared before Seth, catching him off guard and causing him to fall backward to the ground. “You can’t save him.” she repeated over and over not even taking in breath into her decaying corpse.

"Daddy, are you okay?" Erin asked, concerned, grasping his father's hand.

"Yeah, buddy," Seth replied warmly.

"Again?" Brian inquired.

"She won't leave. Ever since Commerce City, it’s getting worse." Seth admitted.

"Who won't leave, Dad?" Erin questioned.

"No one, dork," Seth replied, trying to dispel any worry. "I was a coward. It makes sense. If I would have joined you and Emily, we could have—"

Brian interjected firmly, "Stop. Part of me blames you, I did what I…” he started stampering his words, his lips trembling. “I want to hate you for that. You did what was right for Erin. I just wish you would see the world outside that.” Seth stood up next to Brian, and they walked back towards camp in an awkward silence.

II​

"Emily! We won! We won!" Erin exclaimed, his smile almost taking up his whole face, his dimples taking the rest.

"Oh, you did? What happened?" Emily asked, curious.

"Alakzam was beating everyone until my Pokémon came in!" Erin said, even more eager to share his victory.

Seth leaned in, whispering with his hand over his mouth to block Erin's view, "Darkrai plus Ditto." Emily burst out laughing.

"Is Glenn back?" Brian asked, scanning the camp and noting its calm setting.

"No, your boyfriend isn't back yet," Emily teased, smirking as she joked with him, and Brian responded with a playful middle finger. "It's almost dinner time. You guys took longer than expected. Do you want to get something set up? We only have a little left in supplies."

"Yeah, I got you," Brian said, still holding up his middle finger playfully, and Erin innocently followed his lead.

"I'll stop in Saffron tomorrow to pick up supplies since you both are broke," Seth interjected, taking on the responsibility. "I don't understand, and have never understood, how Team Rocket became such a large entity. The birth rate has plummeted for the last decade, the population has been declining rapidly, and I can't see why anyone raised in Kanto would join something so cruel to its own country," Seth expressed, his concern evident on his face. Brian and Emily exchanged puzzled looks in response.

"There is protection in joining them, not to mention the monetary gain," Emily said, breaking the silence.

"I guess, but it still doesn't sit right with me. You should have seen them in the City. There was a pair on every block," Seth retorted.

"You’re thinking too much into it, Seth," Brian remarked.

“I guess.”

The campsite returned to its usual warmth. Erin pestering his father about food every ten minutes while helping set up their tent. The aroma of cooking engulfed the entire site as the sun began to set. A cool chill passed through them, making Seth thankful that Westgate was getting closer, as he needed to pick up winter supplies before the weather turned harsh. Glenn and Ava walked back up the hill to greet them. Ava immediately began playing with Erin by poking him in the shoulder and running away.

"How did it go?" Brian asked Glenn, genuinely curious, though a small part of him wished he had bombed the interview.

"It went fine. They are really hush-hush about what exactly I'll be helping Silph Co. to create, but there were Team Rocket members all throughout the building," Glenn replied, cleaning his glasses on his shirt.

"Yeah, we noticed that too," Seth added, scratching his beard.

"We'll be camping out here with you guys for one more night, but tomorrow I have to look for a place," Glenn said, turning to Brian, "You can come with us."

Pretending not to hear him, Brian replied, "Yeah, we'll be heading out tomorrow as well." Glenn's face dropped, clearly hurt.

"I have to go into the city tomorrow morning. I'll come with you if you don't mind," Seth offered.

"Of course not. I'm sure Ava would want a proper goodbye with Erin," Glenn said, and Seth responded with an agreeing nod.

As the delicious aroma of the cooked food wafted through the air, the group sat around the crackling campfire, its warm glow enveloping them. Laughter filled the air as both children and adults shared stories and jokes, creating a pleasant atmosphere of camaraderie. The stars above twinkled brightly, casting a magical glow over the campsite. However, the tranquility of the night was occasionally interrupted by the cries of the children who adamantly refused to sleep, their energy seemingly boundless.

Despite the restless kids, Glenn, Emily, Brian, and Seth found solace in the peaceful moments, enjoying each other's company and the soothing feeling of the campfire. Vulpix rested contentedly in Brian's lap, seemingly basking in the stillness of the night alongside its human companions. Seth noticed Emily had her bare feet sat on the log bathing them in the warmth of the fire. As Seth lay there, his gaze locked with Sarah's blood-soaked foot, inches from his face. "Let me try that again," still holding his throat Butch bends down closer, "where is my fucking money."

His breaths came in ragged gasps as he struggled to get up, feeling the firm grip of Butch's hand tightening around his throat. Summoning all his strength, he managed to muster a powerful punch, knocking Butch to the ground. However, his relief turned to horror as he saw Sarah's lifeless body on the ground, her hands clutching her mouth where he had struck her. Veins now visibly snaked all over her body, her neck and face blackened, and the darkness seemed to be spreading.



Her blood curdling scream tore through the air, “You can’t save him!” As she pointed menacingly at the tent where Seth's son slept peacefully. He turned back to see Brian holding his jaw, a massive red spot formed just under his hand, while Emily and Glenn were helping him up.

"What the fuck was that?" Emily said, trying to use hushed volume but failing miserably in her anger.

"I'm... I'm..." Seth tried to get his thoughts out but found the hyperventilating taking over, making it impossible to say anything coherent.

"It's fine, man," Brian said, holding a hand out to Seth. He took it and got to his feet.

"I'm... Fuck..." Seth still found it impossible to speak, so he sat back down, everyone else doing the same, staring at him as if he had grown a separate head.

"You're suffering from psychosis," Glenn said bluntly, causing all eyes to turn to him. "You need to see a therapist or, at the very least, get some sort of medicine."

"I can... handle it," Seth responded slowly, taking deep breaths while looking at his trembling hands.

Emily scoffed at this, looking sharply at him. "Great fucking job so far."

"Drop it," he said sharply before getting up and retreating to his tent.

Emily just shrugged her shoulders and shook her head, returning to the conversation with the others. Seth tried to keep his breathing under control while lying next to Erin. Finally, sleep overcame him, but the voice repeating, "You can't save him," was faintly heard repeating even in his dreams.

III​

As the group walked towards the end of Route seven, the imposing Team Rocket wall encasing Saffron City came into view.

"Alright, I will meet you guys about this far up Route five, north of the city. Come here, girl," Emily said, bending down to embrace Ava. "Glenn, I wish you the best." He returned a friendly smile.

Brian walked over closely towards Glenn, "I promise, I am getting you two out."

"Just don't die trying to achieve it," Glenn said. "When you do come to your senses, you have a place with us."

Brian picked up Ava tightly. "Promise you will be good?"

Ava smiled ear to ear, "I promise."

"Alright, I will meet you north of the city," Seth replied.

They passed the checkpoint smoothly, with the exception of Vulpix fighting not to go in the Pokéball. The city seemed to have grown even larger overnight.

"Erin, give Ava a hug goodbye," Seth said, looking at his son.

"But I don't want her to go!" Erin protested, a tantrum starting to set in.

Glenn got down to his level, "We will see each other soon, I'm sure."

The two kids awkwardly hugged each other while their parents smiled, observing their cuteness.

"Here is Darkrai," Erin said, handing the ball to him.

"Thank you, Seth. Please look after Brian for me," Glenn asked.

"I will, and you be safe here," Seth responded, eyeing two Team Rocket members passing them.

IV​

As the weeks passed, Brian, Seth, Emily, and Erin, along with their Pokémon, embarked on the journey along the uphill path of Route five towards Cerulean City. The once vibrant greenery of the landscape had started to transition into a breathtaking display of autumn colors. The air grew cooler with each passing day, carrying the crisp scent of fallen leaves that now blanketed the ground, forming a golden ocean beneath their feet.

Despite the beauty of their surroundings, tension lingered among the group. Brian and Seth were determined to hone their skills and strategies in preparation for their upcoming battle against Misty, the Cerulean City Gym Leader. They spent hours each day working closely with their Pokémon and Emily’s Vaporeon, perfecting their moves and learning to anticipate each other's thoughts in battle.

On the other hand, Seth's psychosis seemed to intensify with the passing of time. He became increasingly withdrawn, often keeping to himself during their breaks and camp nights. His once sectioned off personality was even subdued, and he struggled to find solace in the tranquility of their journey.

As they continued their ascent, the uphill path became steeper, challenging both their physical and mental endurance. The days were long, filled with arduous training sessions and the never-ending uphill trek. But through it all, the group held on.

Emily, with her vulgar, cheerful and unwavering spirit, often tried to uplift Seth's spirits, reminding him that they were in this together. Erin, always the beacon of positivity, added a spark of joy to the otherwise tense atmosphere, with his innocent laughter and playful interactions with their Pokémon.

The ever-changing landscape mirrored their inner struggles. The golden leaves that surrounded them seemed to symbolize the fleeting moments of respite amidst their challenges. The cool breeze that caressed their cheeks reminded them of the chill in Seth's heart as his psychosis continued to take a toll on him.

As the cries filtered through the trees, Brian's ears perked up, drawing his attention towards the source. "Do you guys hear that?" he asked, sensing something amiss.

"I'm sure it's nothing," Seth replied coldly, trying to brush off the sounds.

But as they continued walking up the hill, the cries grew louder, making it impossible for Seth to deny their significance. "I'm going to check it out. Emily, will you come with me?" Brian asked, his focus fixed on the direction of the distressing sounds.

"Yeah, let's go," Emily responded, gesturing for Seth's knife. The two of them released their Pokémon and hurried up the hill, leaving Erin and Seth resting on the side of the road.

As they approached the scene, about 100 yards away, the cries became even more unbearable, and the horrifying sight unfolded before them. An Ampharos was pinned under a net, struggling relentlessly to break free. Another Ampharos lay on the ground dead, its head missing its red orb replaced with blood streaming down its fading yellow skin. Its tail orb had been brutally ripped from its body, leaving a pool of blood beneath it.

Just a short distance from the Pokémon, a man and a woman were holding a Flaaffy down with what appeared to be rubber gloves on their hands. Flaaffy's face was pressed to the ground, emitting heart-wrenching screams, while another poacher held a knife, cruelly sawing off the blueish orb from its tail.

"Motherfucker!" Emily screamed in anger and despair, causing Brian to startle, snapping him back to the present horror scene.

The three poachers looked up at her, and the man sawing off the tail glared. "Back off if you know what's good for you."

"Fat fucking chance," Emily repeated defiantly, her emotions raging.

Without a second thought, the man stuck the knife into the back of the skull of the helpless Flaaffy. The Ampharos' scream was gut-wrenching and brutal, sending shivers down Brian's spine.

"Fine," the man responded with a chilling grin. In an instant, red light illuminated the area as each person released their Pokémon, ready for a vicious confrontation.

Durant, Mabosstiff, and Vigoroth emerged before them. "Emily, I'll take Vigoroth and Mabosstiff if you can..." Brian's eyes caught Emily riding on Lairon, charging towards one of the poachers hidden behind Mabosstiff.

The poacher smiled, as if he couldn't believe his attacker was so reckless. "Crunch!"

"Stone Edge!" Emily shouted. Lairon lifted its legs and crashed right in front of the gaping mouth of Mabosstiff, sharp rock darted forward from the ground, impaling Mabosttiff with one of the rocks protruding from its skull. Emily jumped off mid-attack from Lairon and deftly stuck Seth's knife into the poacher's right cheek. Brian stood with his mouth agape, never having seen Emily like this before.

"Vaporeon, Water Pulse!" Water rushed out of Vaporeon's mouth, streaming towards Vigoroth, enclosing him in a water bubble.

"Durant, Iron Head!" The female poacher called out, but before it could get to Vaporeon, Lairon jumped in front of the attack, clashing its head with Durant's.

"Brian, are you gonna help?" Emily yelled out.

Brian snapped back to reality. "Yeah, sorry. Ceruledge, Flame Charge!" Ceruledge ran towards Durant, impaling its body with one of her swords. Vigoroth began flailing inside the water bubble, the pressure increasing, its head feeling like it would implode, until its body went still as its lungs filled with water.

The two poachers began backing away, begging for their lives as Emily walked towards them, closing the distance. "Brian, go get Ampharos freed."

Brian's heart pounded in his chest as he approached Ampharos, still trapped under the net, its eyes filled with grief and rage. He knelt down beside the distressed Pokémon, his hands trembling as he reached for the net. "It's okay, girl," he whispered softly, his voice laced with empathy.

Ampharos let out a mournful cry as the net was removed, but instead of relief, her sorrowful eyes turned to her fallen family. Her gaze locked onto the lifeless body of the Flaaffy, and a mixture of sadness and anger engulfed her.

The air crackled with electricity as Ampharos's fur began to glow with a brilliant golden light. Sparks danced around her body, and her yellow cheeks emitted a fierce electrical charge. The intensity of her emotions fueled the power within her, and she unleashed a devastating Thunderbolt attack.

The bolts of electricity shot out from her body like deadly spears, aimed directly at the poachers who had caused so much suffering. The force of the Thunderbolt hit them with an explosive impact, sending them flying backward. Their screams echoed through the forest as the electricity surged through their bodies, leaving them paralyzed and writhing in agony.

Ampharos's eyes blazed with righteous fury, and her Thunderbolt seemed to intensify, as if she could sense their guilt. The ground quivered beneath her as the lightning continued to strike with unyielding power.

It was a terrifying and awe-inspiring sight, as Ampharos, driven by her grief and indignation, became a force of nature, unleashing her pent-up rage in a storm of electrical fury. The air around her crackled with energy, and the smell of burning flesh filled the forest.

When the attack finally subsided, the poachers laid badly scorched on the ground. Ampharos stood there, her fur still glowing, her breath heavy from exertion. She turned her gaze back to her fallen family, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Brian couldn't help but be moved by the display of strength and sorrow. He gently placed his hand on Ampharos's back, offering what little comfort he could.

V​

The sky above them began to darken, and the sound of distant thunder rumbled through the air as a light rain started to fall. Seth, Brian, Emily, and Erin their journey bringing them closer to the gate with the words "Westgate" etched onto it. The town had been a place of sorrow and despair when Seth and Erin had started their journey, and from the looks of it, not much had changed.

As they approached the gate, the raindrops grew heavier, gently tapping against their skin and soaking their clothes. The streets of Westgate were eerily quiet, with only the soft pitter-patter of rain echoing through the desolate town. The buildings looked weather-worn and worn-out, their windows boarded up, and the doors hanging off their hinges.

Torterra's heavy footsteps echoed as they traversed through the near abandoned streets, the rain washing away the dust and grime that had settled over time. Emily pulled her hood over her head to shield herself from the rain, while Erin sat under Torterra’s tree.

Seth's eyes scanned the town, taking in the familiar sights that had not changed since he had last seen them. The memories of their first encounter with Team Rocket flashed through his mind, and he couldn't help but feel a knot of sadness in his heart and the echoing yells of “You can’t save him,” from his deceased wife.

As they walked through the streets, the rain persisted, but the sight of Harold's house caught Erin's attention. He pointed excitedly, "Daddy, look at all the pretty flowers on Mr. Snyder's porch! Why does he have so many?"

Seth hesitated for a moment, "I... I don't know, buddy," he replied softly, trying to find the right words to explain.

As they continued on, they approached their old home, Golden Tails Diner. The front door was surprisingly fixed, but Seth's heart sank when he saw Sarah's lifeless body unmistakably positioned in the window, staring out at him.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 14​

Home​

No matter how far we find ourselves

Our love will keep us close

I want you to know, you will never be alone

I'm coming home, I'm coming home

I want you to know, I'm coming home ​

-Our Last Night ​

I​

Erin was asleep in his room, finding an unusual comfort in his surroundings that allowed him to rest peacefully. The sunlight filtered through his window as the sun began to rise. Outside the window, his father sat, staring at the tree that overlooked his wife's resting place. The sun drifted through the golden leaves and the cool breeze hit his face as he held the cup of stale coffee that provided him so much inner peace.

"What are you doing out here?" Sarah asked, holding Erin close in her arms as he babbled loudly. The wind caught her afro, revealing more of her beautiful face.

"Just wanted to enjoy this before the day," Seth said, smiling at his wife and placing a hand on her leg as she stood next to him.

"Well, when you're ready to stop wasting time, I need help prepping the restaurant," she responded, a smirk starting to form on her face.

"Okay, babe." But then, her face suddenly turned pale and cold. The veins around her neck turned black and started spreading across her body as she held onto Erin, who was now crying.

"You can't save him!" she screamed.

Seth looked at her, not with fear, even though his insides screamed and clenched at the horror before them, just as they did when he first discovered her here months ago. "I don't know what to do anymore, Sarah," genuine sadness creeping over Seth's face as he watched his wife become more decayed. "You were so much stronger than me, and if I had just gotten my head out of my ass, you would be here with Erin, not me. I try so hard for him, to fight for him, but every time I step forward, I feel like I'm being pulled back." He put his head down between his legs, clenching his knees tightly. His coffee mug hitting the ground cracking on impact. Then, he lifted his head back up to confront her, but she was gone, and her tree loomed over him, waiting.

II​

"Hey, looking good," Emily said, pointing to Seth's trimmed beard as he walked through the back door into the kitchen.

"Thanks, feels good to get the damn thing off," Seth replied, scratching his chin.

"Are you guys heading out?" Emily asked, washing her dish in the kitchen sink.

"Here in a minute," Brian responded, the sun filtering through the front windows of the dining room area where he sat at a booth in the eyeshot of the kitchen. Seth joined him with his new cup of coffee.

"Emily, since Erin is still sleeping, do you care if I leave him here with you?" Seth asked, looking at her.

"That's fine, but don't you think he will want to watch the fight?" She inquired.

“I have seen Misty once in her gym when a friend of mine faced her a few years ago. She is vicious, twisted, fuck down right insane. I don't want Erin seeing that," Seth explained, gripping the mug tightly.

"Did your friend win?" Brian looked hopeful.

"Didn't even beat one of her Pokémon," Seth replied, killing the hopeful look on Brian's face.

"Do you have a plan?" Emily asked, pulling up a chair and sitting next to the booth.

Seth grabbed Brian's mug and began pouring coffee into it. They both looked at him puzzled, Brian more annoyed by his ruined drink. "I think so. Brian, do you mind if I take her on first?" He asked, looking at his empty mug.

"Be my guest," Brian said, running his fingers through his hair and then pointing to the Pokéballs on Emily's hip.

"Okay, here they are, but please be careful with them. I'm already nervous enough not having either of them," she said, reaching down and putting both Pokéballs in Brian's hand.



"It will be okay. My place has been deserted for so long that no one should bother you. We will be back closer to dark," Seth explained, but the worry on his face was still very much prevalent. He was staring at the hole in the wall created by Mankey the night his adventure began.

III​

As Seth, Brian, and Vulpix fed through the bustling crowd, they felt like tiny boats navigating a crowded sea. The main street leading to the Cerulean City gym was alive with an array of colors and noises. The air was filled with a melange of chatter, laughter, and the occasional excited screams from eager citizens.

The street itself was transformed into a vibrant canvas of celebration. Colorful balloons and streamers adorned every corner, and banners with Misty's iconic insignia fluttered in the breeze. The shops lining the street were bustling with customers, selling merchandise. Despite the sea of people, the anticipation and excitement were contagious.

However, amidst the joviality, Team Rocket members could be spotted lurking like shadows. Their dark uniforms stood in stark contrast to the cheerful ambiance. Their sinister presence added a layer of tension and mystery to the festivities.

As Seth, Brian, and Vulpix inched closer to the gym, the crowd thickened, making their progress more challenging. People shuffled and jostled, eager to secure a good vantage point to witness the grand event. The cacophony of voices rose to a crescendo, creating a symphony of excitement and anticipation.

"Hello, Cerulean!" A voice drifted over the crowd like an all-encompassing fog. Almost immediately, everyone hushed and looked towards the gym, an eerie stillness and focus settling over the gathering as the words carried towards them. "I am happy to see how our hard work over this last decade has come to fruition in this lovely city."

"Seth, you know who that is, right?" Brian asked, nudging his side. Seth didn't respond; he was hyper-focused on the individual next to the well-dressed figure speaking. The man was huge, with an equally large red beard connecting to his ample stomach. "Seth, that's Giovanni," Brian continued, but Seth wasn't listening to him.

"I understand the people outside our cities have become stagnant and lazy, expecting us to lift them out of the shadow of the war." Sarah's image was drifting over Butch, blood pouring out of her severed legs, repeatedly screaming, "You can't save him." The voice took over every word Giovanni was saying, growing more desperate with each repeat.

"Leaders like Butch Miller here," a roar of cheers thundered through the main street of Cerulean, "have been instrumental in bringing prosperity here, and he will be continuing his work in Vermilion City, to ensure the prosperity of Kanto!" Giovanni stated, his voice calm and controlled, but Seth could barely make out a word through Sarah's screams.

"Seth, come on, let's make our way up," Brian asked, but his voice never reached him.

"That's him," Seth said, moving Brian slightly to the left and pointing at Butch, who was clapping next to Giovanni. "That's the man who raped and killed Sarah."

Brian failed to respond with anything. What can you say? There aren't enough words to portray the violent longing needed to bring relief to Seth. He just held his friend, who was shaking with rage or fear, as they stepped closer to their goal. The city erupted in a momentous roar, but for Seth, it was drowned out by the haunting echoes of Sarah's torment.

IV​

The fight through the crowd towards the gym was tough; even though Giovanni left, the people of Cerulean seemed to find it necessary to stay and celebrate their fear-mongering leader. It also didn't help that Brian was leading Seth like a blind man through oncoming rapids. When they finally reached the stairs to enter the gym, Seth had calmed down enough to be recapped on what Giovanni actually said. They climbed the stairs that led into the Cerulean City gym, the blue paint and reflective windows making it seem like a giant sapphire sitting directly in the middle of the city.

"You ready?" Brian asked Seth, looking nervous.

"No," Seth said bluntly, "but I really don't have a choice. I have a little under $9,000 left and no way of bringing that to what I need by the end of the year. If I lose, I am dead."

They opened the door to find a giant pool with a battlefield suspended maybe 10 feet above the water, its four corners connected to giant chains. Seth looked below his feet under the glass floor to see that the pool extended the entirety of the building, and a smile overtook his face.

"What are you smiling about?" Brian asked, taking in the complexity of the gym.

"You'll see. I don't want to ruin the surprise," Seth responded. His smile dropped immediately when he looked above the battlefield to the observation deck. Misty was talking to Giovanni. Younger than them but not by much, she was a small girl with red hair that poked out from the side with a ponytail. Giovanni simply sat down as he viewed Seth, Brian, and Vulpix enter. What caught Seth's full attention was Butch Miller sitting in a chair to the other side of Misty. His eyes locked onto Seth, and a smile etched across his face. Seth grabbed his face over his left eye. The headache that came on with Sarah's voice again was splitting. "Please not now," he muttered to himself.

Misty made her way down the stairs, and Giovanni's voice boomed through the enormous room but seemed somewhat calm and controlled. "I hope you challengers don't mind my observation of this fight." Butch got up and whispered something to Giovanni. After he backed away, his boss, Giovanni, chuckled. "Interesting. Are you both challenging?" Brian looked at Seth and saw the pain he was going through. He stared back at Giovanni and simply nodded. "Great, then show me what I might experience in the future."

"How many badges do you guys have?" Misty said, her voice more energetic than her body movements, but not by much. Seth, attempting to focus solely on Misty, held up three fingers. "I would normally just say fuck all that, and battle you with a full team, but as you can see, I have to be more shackled by this shit-ass rules." Misty howled, looking up at Giovanni and itching her nose as if she was trying to saw the damn thing off. Seth started making his way up the small steps to be on top of the battlefield, Vulpix prancing behind him. "I can only use five, but let's be honest, I'll need fewer than that to kick your ass." She threw a Pokéball into the air; the red light streamed down in front of her and materialized a Dewgong. It immediately made its way into the water, disappearing from sight.

Seth pondered for a moment; he needed to get Torterra out, but against an Ice type, it would immediately mess up every plan he had. He looked back at Butch, who was glaring at him as if he were a naked woman or his next meal. Seth was confused which one Butch had hoped for. Sarah's voice started picking up again, and he had to look away. "Fuck it," Seth said and threw his Pokéball. Primeape emerged, pounding its fist towards the ground.

Primeape caught a glimpse of Butch and began pounding its fists even harder, never blinking at his menacing gaze. He looked back at Seth, making his intentions clear, “You think I am going to stop you?” Seth responded, and he tore off to the side of the battlefield where Butch sat. Butch remained unmoving, simply watching the force of wrath charging toward him with a twisted smile. Primeape leaped up, ascending to Butch’s grotesque presence. Dewgong soared out of the water, attempting to stop Primeape, but unlike Seismitoad, Primeape spun around and punched Dewgong, sending it flying down to crash into the battlefield. Now, just feet away from his target, arm stretched back, Seth had a twisted smile plastered over his face.

Red light illuminated from Giovanni, flooding before Butch. A Nidoking formed in front of Primeape, blocking the attack with its arms covering its face. Primeape, unable to stay suspended, landed back down on the battlefield. “Mr. Conklin, after the great times we had together. I am hurt,” Butch yelled down to Seth.

“You try that again, and I will not simply block your attack, do you understand?” Giovanni questioned.

Seth clenched his fist, wanting so badly to rip out Butch’s throat. Sarah's screams were all around him, making his headache even more unbearable.

“Do you understand?” Giovanni asked more commandingly.

“Yes,” Seth mumbled, holding his head, trying to get the voices under control. Just focus, he thought to himself. For Erin's sake, I have to beat Misty.

V​

By the time Seth refocused on Misty, she had already recalled Dewgong. The blood patch on the ground still clearly evident. “That was a lucky shot!” She yelled out. “But this shit ends now.” She threw out her second Pokémon, and a Gyarados emerged, roaring as it towered over Primeape, its long body coiled on the ground. “Get in the water, Gyarados!” Misty called out.

“Primeape, stop it!” He charged towards Gyarados, attempting to grab its tail, but he fell short as the serpent entered the water. “Knock it off the fucking field!” Misty yelled, and a stream of water jetted past Primeape, who barely managed to dodge. Seth was increasingly nervous as Primeape had nowhere to run or hide from this assault. “Primeape, use—” A giant wave emerged from the pool, attempting to wash away everything.

“Primeape, get on the wall!” Seth yelled as he stepped down off the battlefield to prevent getting swept away. Primeape lunged under Giovanni and Butch and sunk his fist into the wall. Gyarados was seen under the water, closing the distance fast. “Aqua Tail!” Misty screamed.

“Rock Slide!” Just as Gyarados leaped out of the water, Primeape slammed his fist against the wall, creating huge cracks and shaking the observation deck. Huge slabs of plaster and cement fell on Gyarados before his tail could reach Primeape. It cried in pain as he sank back down into the pool. Primeape made his way back onto the field. “Awesome work!” Seth called out.

“Hyper Beam!” Misty called out, irritation exuding from her aura as she began pulling at her hair. Gyarados rose up, a giant of energy forming inside its mouth.

“Get out of there, Primeape!” But it was too late; the beam of light crashed into Primeape, sending him off the stage and crashing into the wall. Blood started seeping in spurts around his body, and then he dropped, falling into the pool.

This is my chance, Seth thought, knowing Gyarados needed a second to recuperate from that attack. He quickly recalled Primeape and threw the ball at Brian. "Check on him for me." He then tossed a Pokéball high in the air, revealing Torterra, who crashed to the ground. Seth had to brace himself to not get flung off the field; it began to sway with Torterra’s immense weight. "Let's go! Grassy Terrain, break this pool apart." While Gyarados's body was still moving sluggishly, Torterra stomped its front feet to the ground. The entire stadium began shaking as roots and trees emerged from the bottom of the pool.

"What are you doing!" Misty called out in anger. "Gyarados, stop it!" But Gyarados, at the moment, was far too slow to close the distance. The water level began to shrink, and Misty stared at it flabbergasted. "No. NO. NO!" A tree popped out of the water close to Misty, roots emerging everywhere along the wall.

"Shit, this was your plan," Brian remarked, disbelieving.

"Water types are useless without water," Seth said simply.

"You think I gained the title of Gym Leader by only having a damn pool?" Misty screamed and stomped her feet like a child, however her face was truly terrifying as she glared at Seth and Torterra. "Gyarados, use Ice Fang!" Fully recovered from the Hyper Beam, Gyarados leaped out of the pool that was now about half full and still draining. Torterra was an easy target, and its movements restricted as it couldn't use its earth attacks, as they would just break the field, crashing it into the still draining pool but too high for any foliage to reach him. "Use Withdraw!" Seth yelled out, and Gyarados's maw encompassed Torterra, hiding its shell. The tree on its back began to wilt, and screams of pain echoed in the Gym. Frost started to creep its way over Torterra's body.

"Recall it!" Brian pleaded, seeing the doom unfold before him.

"No, he can hang on!" Seth yelled, watching Torterra scream in pain, knowing he can't fall behind in this fight.

"Are you really going to kill your son's first Pokémon?" Brian pointed at Torterra's body, helpless in the grasp of Gyarados as he crashed its body into the ground, still holding on with its fangs digging into Torterra's shell. "Seth!"

"Fuck. Fine," a red light engulfed Torterra, disappearing from Gyarados's mouth as it slammed shut. Seth released Torterra, whose head hung limply out of its shell. Its chest rising and falling faintly. "Vulpix, warm Torterra up. Brian, how is Primeape?"

"He will live," Brian said sharply.

Seth threw his 3rd Pokéball, revealing Ditto on the battlefield, suspended over the almost empty pool. Its body fluctuated, a smile encompassing its face. Giovanni stood up, staring at it, his face actually seeming surprised. "What is that?" Misty asked, looking confusingly at the Pokémon before her.

"Ditto, Transform," Seth commanded. Ditto's body stretched and contorted, mirroring Gyarados's long blue serpent body before it. "Ice Fang!" Ditto rushed at Gyarados, attempting to bite just below its head. Gyarados quickly dodged the attack and headbutted Ditto's head, crashing it to the ground!

"You think an imitation can beat me!" Misty roared, "Pathetic! Gyarados, use Earthquake!" Gyarados lifted its tail and slammed it on the ground with tremendous force. The platform began to shake and crack open.

"Seth, get off of it!" Brian called out. Before he could react Seth fell to the ground, barely able to stand up as the field crumbled before him. Primeape, sensing what was happening, jumped up despite its injuries, leaping into the empty pool and catching Seth as they collided with the bottom.

"Thanks," Seth pleasantly said to Primeape as he got to his feet, "You okay?" Primeape nodded his head as blood was caked on his fur. "Get up there and lie down, okay?" Primeape leaped from the emerging roots and left the pool. "Ditto, we still good." The imposter Gyarados looked back at Seth and nodded its head, its eyes looking fierce. Seth looked up at Giovanni, who was clutching the railing. His face looked composed, but his grip was so tight that Seth was afraid he was going to break the railing off. “Let’s get this done.”

Gyarados slithered its way towards Ditto, swerving between the trees and emerging roots that cracked through the floor. "Use Crunch!" Misty screamed. Gyarados cocked its head back, attempting to grip Ditto. It tried to avoid the bite, but the vegetation restricted its movement in its newly large form. Ditto began screaming in pain. "Hyper Beam!" A bright white light engulfed the inside of the pool as the energy gathered in Gyarados's mouth, colliding with the pinned Ditto. After the light subsided, Ditto's transformed body hung limp in Gyarados's mouth, and it began to shrink back into its normal form.

"Ditto!" Seth yelled, racing towards it. Gyarados towered over him as he knelt down to examine Ditto. It was out cold but still breathing, its form fluctuating from what Seth could tell from its unusual biology. He recalled Ditto and stared at Misty beyond the behemoth that stood before him. This was bad; all he had left was Noivern and Vulpix. A single ice move could knock out Noivern, and Vulpix wasn't prepared for Gyarados and three unknown water types.

Misty's laughter echoed through the gym, sending shivers down Seth's spine. Her once composed and confident demeanor had transformed into something entirely unhinged. Her eyes gleamed with a manic intensity, flickering with a mix of amusement and madness. Strands of her disheveled red hair fell across her face, partially obscuring her wild expression.

Her lips curled into a twisted grin, revealing a set of clenched teeth. As she cackled, her voice was tinged with a hint of insanity, making her seem like a different person altogether. Her shoulders shook with each burst of laughter, and her hands trembled with excitement. The veins on her neck seemed to pulse, emphasizing her growing fervor.

Misty's gaze locked onto Seth, and she took a step closer, her eyes boring into his with an unsettling intensity. “Well come on,” She roared through her laughter. “Is the person who is going to wreck my gym going to be this fucking pathetic.”

VI​

With a resounding screech, Noivern burst forth from its Pokéball, its large wings spreading wide. The majestic creature had sleek, dark-purple scales with striking maroon accents along its wings and ears. Its sharp claws and fangs gleamed menacingly as it hovered in the air, ready for battle. Its red eyes were focused and intense.

Gyarados was trapped down here with nowhere to go or hide. Seth's voice rang out with confidence as he commanded his Pokémon. "Noivern, take to the skies! Attack Gyarados with Dragon Pulse!" Noivern's wings flapped powerfully, carrying it higher and higher until it almost reached the gym's ceiling. The atmosphere crackled with energy as Noivern's attack began to take shape, a swirling purple vortex of pulsating energy.

With Gyarados trapped in the empty pool, it was defenseless against Noivern's aerial assault. The Dragon Pulse shot down like a comet, hurtling towards the serpentine creature below. The force of the attack was devastating, hitting Gyarados square on target as it let out a bellowing cry of agony.

The impact caused gusts of wind to whip around the gym, knocking over foliage and debris. Misty's command to use Hydro Pump was futile; Gyarados had no water to draw upon, leaving its powerful attack useless against Noivern's aerial assault. The Dragon Pulse attacks continued to rain down relentlessly, bombarding Gyarados until the enormous Pokémon finally crashed to the ground.

The colossal menace was finally recalled into its Pokéball, leaving the bottom of the drained pool looking even more expansive. "Fine, you want a range battle, I will give you one," Misty declared, gripping her hair with intensity in her voice that pierced Seth's confidence. She tossed out her Pokéball, and he watched as a Primarina emerged from the light, sitting gracefully next to its master, eyes fixed on Noivern as it circled above. "Shoot it down! Moonblast." Misty commanded with a smile stretching across her face.

Pink light gathered in Primarina's mouth, and rapid shots were fired towards Noivern. "Dodge!" Seth called out. The agile Pokémon weaved skillfully between three attacks colliding with the ceiling behind him, rubble falling to the ground. However, the fourth one found its mark, sending Noivern plummeting to the ground. He managed to recover just before hitting the bottom, steadying himself in mid-air. "Close the distance!" Seth urged, and Noivern forcefully flapped its wings, rapidly approaching Primarina.

"Don’t waste your water," Misty said calmly. "Ice Wind." A gust of frigid air slowed down Noivern's flight, frosting its wings and face. "Moonblast." Another pink ball of energy struck Noivern, causing him to crash hard to the ground, seemingly defeated.

Seth tightly gripped Noivern's Pokéball, reluctant to recall him. "Get up," he muttered, surprised when Noivern lifted itself upright. "You okay?" Seth called out, concern evident in his voice. Noivern didn't look back, but his shaking body conveyed the answer. "Boomblast," Seth commanded, and Noivern's ears emitted a high-pitched sound, causing Primarina and Misty to clutch their ears, incapacitated by the attack.

"Aqua Jet!" Misty's voice barely audible over the deafening explosion from Noivern. Primarina propelled water from its mouth towards the ground, soaring upward like a bullet towards Noivern. In mid-air, it created a final Moonblast that collided with the stationary Noivern for the third time. The gym fell into sudden silence, with the lack of Noivern’s attack and only broke when Noivern fell limb with a thud that echoed the expansive room.

Noivern disappeared into its Pokéball, leaving Seth alone on his side of the pool. With Vulpix as his last Pokémon against Misty's Primarina and two unknown Pokémon, the odds seemed insurmountable. Reality set in, and the hope drained from Seth as quickly as the water had drained from the pool, leaving him with nothing but despair. He sank to his knees, feeling defeated. Misty's cackling pierced the air again, taunting him, "Is that really all you have!" Vulpix stepped forward, glaring at Primarina, and then turned her head to shoot flames to her left.

"Are you sure?" Seth asked, but Vulpix didn't look at him. She knew what she had to do and didn't need confirmation from her trainer.

VII​

“Primarina, use Hydro Pump!" Misty commanded, and a powerful jet of water raced towards Vulpix, who met it with her flamethrower that collided together with a tremendous force. Steam engulfed the pool, reducing visibility to near nothingness. Seth was about to give Vulpix a command when he stopped himself. Vulpix was trained for attacks in low visibility. "Primarina, if you can't see it, then it can't see you. Just keep moving," Misty's voice carried through the steam. Suddenly, a red and orange light pierced through the opaque cloud, followed by screams from Primarina.

“Hydro Pump!” Another jet of water erupted from Primarina, but Vulpix had already moved from her last known position. More flames erupted to the left of Primarina, and the steam quickly vanished, revealing the wall of fire colliding with Primarina.

“Fire Spin!” Seth roared out. Vulpix began swirling around Primarina, shooting flames from her golden blur of a body. A tornado of fire rose around Primarina, helplessly trapping her.

“Extinguish it now! Hydro Pump!” But nothing came out of Primarina. She was out of water, and her screams were barely audible amidst the sizzling pillar of fire surrounding her.

“Fire Blast.” Seth called out. Vulpix stopped suddenly, collecting a growing ball of fire.

“Moonblast!” Misty yelled out simultaneously, the pink light breaking through the gaps in the swirling fire. The ball of pink energy shot out of the tornado, and Vulpix fired back a ball of fire twice the size of her. The Moonblast disappeared in flames and crashed into Primarina.

The smoke covered the aftermath around Primarina, and Seth couldn't believe what had just happened. Vulpix had always been stubbornly strong, but to take down a fully evolved Water-type Pokémon of a Gym Leader was insane. Vulpix hunched down and began to growl at Misty as she finally returned her defeated Pokémon, and it was clear that Primarina wasn't getting back up.

Misty's laughter rang out, as she cackled maniacally, reveling in the chaos. "Fine, I see you, Vulpix! Try this!" Misty's Pokéball almost exploded with light as a massive Swampert emerged, towering over Vulpix. Its eerie smile marked its face, and it cracked its neck in a disturbing manner. "Oh, I am getting fucking payback for you wrecking my gym," Misty taunted, her eyes glinting with madness.

A strange light emerged from Misty's wrist and the necklace dangling off of Swampert's neck. The ground seemed to tremble as muddy water seeped up, covering Swampert's body. Seth looked on, stunned and unsure of what he was witnessing. "See, there are benefits to playing for Giovanni," Misty exclaimed, her laughter growing louder and more unsettling.

The muddy water collapsed around Swampert, but it was no longer the familiar Swampert Seth was accustomed to. Its forearms seemed to expand three times their size, its once slim body ballooning into a giant mass of muscle. Bright orange paddings covered its entire body, and the black fins that once marked its form now stretched and extended, covering its full length. "Let's see how you enjoy Mega Swampert!" Misty roared triumphantly as the colossal Pokémon slammed its fist into the ground, leaving a deep dent in the floor below.

"Let's go, Flamethrower!" Seth yelled out. The flames danced off of Swampert's moist skin, as if they were a gentle breeze.

"Stone Edge!" Misty commanded. Swampert slammed its fist to the ground once more, and jagged rocks cut off the fire and tearing the ground below Vulpix.

"Dodg-" but it was too late. Vulpix was hit hard, blood dripping off her chest as she flew through the air.

"Hammer Arm," Misty said coolly.

Swampert seemed to disappear entirely from the battlefield and emerged suspended in the air next to Vulpix. Its giant fist swung down, connecting on top of Vulpix, who was sent hurtling downward, colliding with the ground.

"Vulpix," Seth said, attempting to go forward but stopping himself, knowing that if he steps on the field, it means forfeit. Vulpix got to her feet slowly, her whole body trembling, blood dripping onto the ground from her chest, ears, and mouth. "Stop. You don't have to do this." Vulpix turned to Seth, her face stern despite her beat-up body. "We will figure something out," Seth called out. "Please, you promised to protect Erin. You can't do that if you're dead." Seth glanced up at Butch, who was leaning over the railing with a smirk on his face. Vulpix shot a jet of flames right past Seth, as if to bluntly answer his stupidity.

"Are you giving up?" Misty called out.

Vulpix leapt quickly in front of Swampert and made eye contact, using Extrasensory. Swampert started staggering around, grasping its ears and shutting its eyes, opening its mouth to yell out from the dramatic increase in all its senses. "Now, Vulpix!" Seth roared. Vulpix leapt up close and shot fire down Swampert's throat. It hit the floor in pain, rolling around and grasping its neck.

"Now, Quick Attack!" She disappeared from sight and emerged in Swampert's hand as he extended it out in protection. His grip closed over Vulpix's face as she struggled to get out. "No!" Seth called out.

"Do you surrender?" Misty called, jumping back and forth, unable to contain her excitement. "I will pop her like a fucking pimple! Do you give up?"

Seth hesitated but walked onto the field and stepped inches from Swampert, extending his hands. Swampert looked down at Seth and then back to Vulpix in his hand, blood dripping down off its fingers. Seemingly against its judgment, it relinquished her, dropping her into Seth's arms.

Vulpix looked like she had been through a meat grinder. Blood coated her fur, dripping out of her ears, and she coughed up blood. Seth had a flicker of anger thinking of Erin's face, but it went away as fast as it came. He looked down at Vulpix, feeling the struggling breath she was taking. "Badass," he whispered, his voice full of admiration.

Seth collapsed to the ground, the pool littered with singed vegetation, and the sound of Misty's laughter and taunting echoed around him. He was broken and didn't know where to go from here.

 

[Sarnick18]

Interlude 2
​

Follow You​

So you can drag me through hell

If it meant I could hold your hand

I will follow you 'cause I'm under your spell

And you can throw me to the flames

I will follow you, I will follow you



- Bring Me the Horizon​

The sky was covered with a thick blanket of gray clouds that muted the usual vibrant colors of fall. The leaves, once a riot of reds, oranges, and yellows, now appeared subdued and slightly damp from the cool drizzle that fell gently from the sky. The air was crisp, carrying with it the unmistakable scent of damp earth and fallen leaves. As Seth stood under Sarah's tree, his eyes fixed on the sprawling city below, the light drizzle painted the world around him in a soft, silvery haze. The tree’s branches reached out like open arms, as if welcoming the two souls about to be united under its sheltering canopy.

In the distance, the cityscape of Cerulean City seemed to blend seamlessly with the muted landscape. The soft pitter-patter of raindrops on rooftops created a soothing rhythm that harmonized with the occasional rustle of the autumn breeze. Misty tendrils hugged the city's buildings, adding an air of mystery to the view.

Sarah's approach brought a radiant glow to the scene. She walked gracefully towards Seth, her white dress a stark contrast against the muted backdrop. Her smile was like a beacon of warmth that dispelled the coolness of the drizzle, and her eyes sparkled with excitement and love.

As they stood together under the tree, the overcast sky seemed to embrace them, providing a serene and intimate atmosphere for their special moment. The soft raindrops kissed their cheeks, mingling with the joyful tears and heartfelt vows shared between the two, creating a beautiful tapestry of emotions. Seth and Sarah exchanged vows, promising to love and cherish each other for all their days. The gentle rain, like a blessing from nature itself, seemed to approve of their union. Their love, like the fall foliage, was changing and evolving, becoming even more beautiful as time passed.

As the ceremony ended, the cool drizzle began to fade, and a sense of tranquility filled the air. The couple stood hand in hand, their hearts entwined like the roots of the tree above them, ready to embark on this new journey together. The world may have been overcast, but the love shared between Seth and Sarah was a beacon of light that illuminated their path.

As the evening wore on and the reception carried on in the backyard, a soft, velvety darkness began to descend upon the scene. The twinkling stars appeared one by one, adorning the deep blue canvas of the night sky. Strings of lights strung between the trees added a magical touch, casting a warm and intimate glow over the festivities.

The air was filled with the joyful sounds of laughter, music, and the rhythm of dancing feet. It came alive with guests swaying and twirling, lost in the euphoria of the celebration. The sound of their joyous voices mingled with the gentle rustling of leaves in the trees, creating an enchanting symphony of celebration.

Amidst the celebration, the aroma of delectable dishes wafted through the air, drawing everyone closer to the dining area. The scents carried the love and passion that Sarah's mother had put into preparing the meal. Despite her failing health, she was still a culinary maestro, and her dishes had an uncanny ability to comfort the soul and bring warmth to the heart.

As guests approached the dining area, they were greeted with an array of delightful flavors. The sound of laughter and chatter intertwined with the clinking of glasses, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Remaining friends and family gathered around the long tables, their faces glowing with delight as they savored the delicious dishes lovingly prepared by Sarah's mother.

Sarah's mother approached with a small, weathered package clutched gently in her hands. The package seemed to have seen many years, its corners slightly frayed and its surface adorned with a few faded symbols. With a loving smile, Sarah's mother handed over the package, explaining, "Your father wanted me to give you this today."

Sarah's eyes widened with curiosity and excitement as she carefully unwrapped the package. Inside, she found a magnificent stone, unlike anything she had ever seen before. It seemed to contain fire within its depths, reflecting the light around it in a mesmerizing dance of vibrant red and orange hues. The stone glowed with an inner warmth, and as Sarah turned it in her hands, the flames within seemed to dance and flicker, captivating her senses.

Nestled inside the package, she also discovered a small letter. Her fingers trembled with excitement as she gently unfolded it and began to read the heartfelt words penned by her father.



My Dearest Sarah,



I hope this letter finds you on your special day, surrounded by love and joy. I know how much you despised my departure, and believe me, leaving you was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. But life has its twists and turns, and I had to follow my duty.

I entrusted this letter to your mother, to be opened on your wedding day, alongside the fire stone we've kept safe for all these years. I pray that circumstances have changed, and I am there with you, witnessing your happiness as you begin this new chapter of your life. But if fate has decided otherwise, then these words will have to serve as a reminder of my unwavering love for you.

As a soldier, details about our mission are scarce. They tell us that we should be heading back home soon after an offensive operation, and I cling to that hope, dreaming of being by your side once more. I hope you never have to read these words, and that I can tell you in person just how much you mean to me.

During my time away, I've been under the guidance of a remarkable General named Giovanni. He's shown me a passion for Kanto that I've never seen before. There's so much I wish to share with you, so many stories to tell, but I fear I won't find the right words to express the depths of my feelings.

Know that my heart is filled with love for you, and I find solace in the knowledge that you will be safe and protected. Your Vulpix is fiercely loyal and strong, much like that young boy Seth from next door. I remember how I evolved my Vulpix on my own wedding day, and I hope to give you that same chance.

My dear Sarah, if I am unable to be there, please know that you are the light of my life, and your happiness means the world to me. Take this day as a celebration of love and new beginnings. Embrace the love of your partner, cherish the memories we've shared, and know that you carry a piece of my heart with you always.



With all my love,

Your Father



Tears streamed down Sarah's face as Seth held her close, and Vulpix nestled by her feet. She clutched the fire stone in her hand once more, her eyes locking onto Vulpix with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. "Do you want to try?" Sarah whispered, her voice filled with gentle encouragement. Vulpix took a cautious step back, sensing the power within the stone. She carefully touched the stone to Vulpix, and for a moment, her eyes glowed with a radiant white light as flames flickered to life around her.

But Vulpix shook her head fervently, her eyes returning to their usual bright hue, and the flames quickly faded away. "That's okay," Sarah said, her smile bright and affectionate. The lighting flickering across the sky overhead of Cerulean City. "You're already a badass, just the way you are."

Seth cradled Vulpix, her body wrapped in bandages from head to toe. The morning light struggled to break through the thick clouds overhead, casting a somber tone as he sat beneath Sarah's tree. "You would have been so much better off with her," he spoke aloud, his voice a mix of sadness and frustration. "I'm just so lost, not knowing what to do. All I want is for him to be safe." He looked down at Vulpix, and despite the disappointment of failing to defeat Misty, he couldn't find it in his heart to be angry with her. She had exceeded all his expectations, and he felt a profound sense of pride in her. As he sat there, contemplating the path ahead, a sudden flash of lightning illuminated the sky, brightening his otherwise dreary surroundings.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 15
​

Winter​

It's so cold and frozen

And every bricks of the walls are so close to falling apart

(So close to falling apart)

You never knew me

I'm on the edge of the world

Swimming on the undertow



- LANDMVRKS​

I​

Electricity crackled and surged throughout the decaying, empty pool, the air filled with the sharp scent of burning foliage. "Thunderbolt!" Brian's voice pierced the chaos, as if summoning every last ounce of energy within him. Ampharos, suspended in mid-air, transformed into a radiant yellow ball of electricity, its brilliance almost blinding to behold. With a ferocious determination, it unleashed a torrent of lightning that streaked towards Starmie and Misty, colliding with this cataclysmic power.

As the force holding Ampharos in the air dissipated, he plummeted towards the ground, landing with a thud and panting heavily. The red gem at the center of Starmie's core, once glowing brightly, began to flicker and dim until it finally went dark. Starmie collapsed backward, its once powerful form now motionless on the battlefield.

Misty's composure crumbled, and she began to stammer in disbelief, her voice seemed to constantly switch back between rage and sobbing. "No. No. No. This isn't fair! My pool was destroyed! This wasn't a fair fight." Her face contorted with anger and disappointment, as if she were throwing a tantrum like a child denied a cherished toy. But there was something terrifying about her eyes, which blazed with an unsettling mix of fury.. Her piercing gaze seemed to penetrate the very souls of those around her, demanding acknowledgement of her anger and grief. The intensity of her emotions was palpable, and the air seemed to grow heavy with the weight of her fury. Her fists clenched tightly, and her knuckles turned white with the force of her grip. As her eyes darted from the fallen Starmie to Brian and Ampharos, there was a sense of danger lurking beneath her rage, as if she were ready to lash out at anyone who dared challenge her or question her abilities.

Cutting into the tense atmosphere, Giovanni's steady clapping echoed through the gym, capturing everyone's attention. "Ha! That was a truly intense fight! Well done. I look forward to seeing you in Viridian," he announced as Brian recalled Ampharos and made his way up the ladder behind him. Meanwhile, Seth sat there, holding Vulpix and flanked by Primeape and Torterra. His face remained emotionless, not revealing anything as he stared at the ground, lost in thought.

"Seth, recall them. We'll hurry back to take better care of them," Brian suggested, placing a reassuring hand on Seth's shoulder. Seth simply nodded, obeying his friend's advice and standing up beside him.

"Misty, hand him the badge," Giovanni commanded coolly. She hesitated but dared not disobey, reluctantly handing the badge to Brian before storming off back up to the observation deck.

"Show me your badges," Giovanni instructed, directing his attention to Seth.

"Why?" Seth responded defiantly.

"Indulge me, please," Giovanni retorted in an almost emotionless tone, seemingly trying to conceal something. Seth brought out his badge case containing the three badges he had won. Giovanni picked up the Rainbow Badge from Erika. "What did you think of Celadon City?" Giovanni asked, his voice still monotone.

"It was fine. The casino was a lot of fun," Seth replied dryly, staring back at Giovanni with a blank expression.

"Hmm," Giovanni muttered, putting his hands in his pockets before walking away. Butch then approached Seth, holding out his hand, and an air of hostility began to rise as his hand was left suspended in the air for what felt like an eternity. Suddenly, Seth's anger erupted, and he grabbed Butch's beard, bringing his knee up into his face, causing blood to pour out of his nose. Seth continued to attack Butch relentlessly, punching him over and over until teeth began to fall back in his throat. Finally Seth brought his thumbs to Butch’s eyes, grinding them against his skull. All the while laughing uncontrollably as he unleashed his pent-up frustration.

"Well done," Butch managed to say, bringing Seth back to reality as he stood in front of him, his hand still outstretched. Seth's gaze bore into Butch, his anger and resentment steadily growing.

Sensing the escalating tension, Brian swiftly intervened, placing a firm hand on Seth's shoulder. "Come on, let's go," he urged, his voice laced with a mix of concern and urgency. Without another word, both Seth and Brian turned away from Butch and walked toward the exit, Vulpix cradled gently in Seth's arms.

"She did incredible," Brian remarked, the two of them ambling down the street of Cerulean City.

Seth's lips parted, his expression conveying uncertainty. "Yeah," he started, his voice hesitant as he struggled to put his thoughts into words.

Brian's reassuring smile radiated warmth. "We'll figure it out, Seth," he assured, his eyes showing genuine support. "You're not alone in this; you've got me and Emily."

Seth's gratitude was evident in his soft response. "Thank you."

II​

Snowfall gracefully blanketed the area surrounding the Golden Tails Diner, casting a serene hush over the otherwise vacant street. Seth turned his attention to his bundled-up son, who appeared so layered in winter clothing that he resembled a marshmallow. "You've got Flapple, right?" Seth inquired, his voice laced with a hint of concern.

"Yup," his son replied, his face peeking out from beneath an oversized gray skullcap and scarf. His hand clenched around his toy tightly.

"It's a shame we had to wait so long before hitting the road again," Emily added, her posture slightly hunched as she checked her bag to ensure everything was in order.

Brian chimed in with an explanation, "There was no other choice. Torterra bounced back quickly, but Ditto took a good two weeks to fully recover to his usual weird self. As for Primeape and Vulpix, well, their broken ribs needed three weeks to heal."

Seth's gaze lowered as he muttered, "I'm really sorry about that, guys. Brian I still can’t believe you had no injuries.”

His response was quick and understanding, "You knocked her off balance by taking down her pool, and she threw everything she had at you. Even that... what did she call it? Ultra Evolution?”

"At least we're all okay now," Emily chimed in, her freckled face illuminated by the gentle morning sunlight as she affectionately petted Vulpix. "Let's just get moving."

As they embarked from Westgate, the soft snowflakes continued to drift down around them. For Seth and Erin, this departure marked their final exit from their home. Seth turned to Brian, voicing a concern, "You know, you don't have to come with us all the way to Lavender Town. I have to wait a year to battle Misty again, but you could continue on your journey."

Brian's expression changed momentarily, contemplation visible on his face. He then regarded Seth with a thoughtful gaze. "My taxes are due in three months, and there's no way I can complete the League challenge within that time. Plus if I lose then I die. I think I'll stick with you guys and head to Lavender Town for work. You’re right, its coastal location and distance from major cities, more specifically team rocket, means we should be able to find something even during winter."

Seth's words were sincere as he responded, "For what it's worth, I'm really glad you're coming with us."

Emily interjected from behind, "Oh, how sweet."

Ignoring her comment, Seth's attention shifted to his son, who was riding atop Torterra. Despite the snow-covered landscape and Torterra's immediate hatred for the snow, Erin was still happily issuing commands to the massive Pokémon, who begrudgingly complied.

III​

"Just the four of you," announced Benjamin, a burly old man stationed on the board ramp that connected his weathered small houseboat to the pier. The imposing Team Rocket Wall loomed faintly in the distance to the east. He scratched his balding head, his eyes lighting up at Erin. A fond smile curved his lips. "He sure has grown."

"Yeah, we're headed to Lavender Town, and we could really use your help," Seth explained, holding Erin in his arms while Vulpix sat patiently beside him.

"I can take you as far as Aureolin Town," Benjamin offered, his tone thoughtful. "It'll be about a week's journey, but that should get you fairly close to Lavender."

Brian chimed, "Why can't you take us all the way to Lavender?"

"The river cuts through the mountains, and there are some treacherous spots, but gets you three-quarters of the way through the Rock Mountain Range.” He explained.

“And after three-quarters?” Emily asked.

“Shortly after Aureolin Town, there's a waterfall. Without a boat, you'd be looking at a two-month walk, and that's if we're lucky with this winter weather," he explained, gesturing to the falling snow around them.

Seth's voice turned more serious as he asked the inevitable question. "How much?"

"Two thousand," Benjamin replied.

"Two thousand?" Seth exclaimed, his disbelief evident. "Benjamin, I've known you since I was a kid. You were at my wedding."

Benjamin's expression softened. "I'm giving you that price because of all that. Your father-in-law was the finest man I've ever known. But my taxes are due soon, if it was just the one week floating downstream it would be one thing. But I also have a three week minimum upstream, and that is dependent on Blastoise pushing. Anyone else would charge a thousand a person. I'm not charging you or Erin."

Seth's cool demeanor returned. "Okay. I understand. We'll accept. It's better than spending all the remaining time trudging through the snow." He glanced at Emily and Brian, who nodded in reluctant agreement.

Benjamin's voice turned serious. "I don't want to end up like Harold, Seth."

"I know, and I appreciate that. Thank you," he replied genuinely.

They stepped onto the boat, a humble vessel that seemed to have seen its fair share of journeys. Benjamin released Blastoise in the water whom navigated away from the dock, the boat gently rocking as it set a course down the river. It was a tight fit on the small and practical houseboat, but it was their best bet.

The boat was a modest and weathered vessel as if someone dropped a box on a flat empty boat. Its exterior was worn and faded, the paint chipped and peeling in places, revealing the aged wood underneath.

The cabin, which served as both living quarters and control center, was a simple and functional space. Its wooden walls were weathered by time and the elements, giving it a rustic charm. heated solely by an old wood burning heater but giving a comfortable atmosphere in comparison to the cold outside.

Inside, there was just enough room for the essentials. A narrow table was anchored to the floor, flanked by two worn-out benches and two old chairs. A small, well-worn kitchenette occupied one corner, its appliances showing signs of age but still functional.

A pair of modest sleeping bunks were tucked against the walls, covered by thin, faded sheets and well-worn blankets. The space between them was narrow, leaving little room for movement. A few storage compartments were built into the walls, each filled with an assortment of supplies and necessities for the journey.

"Alright, we're off," Benjamin announced, his breath misting in the cold air as he entered the cabin and rubbed his arms for warmth.

Erin, his attention fixed on the passing hillside outside the window, inquired, "Does Blastoise have to push the whole time?"

Benjamin chuckled and crouched down to Erin's eye level. His kind face and wrinkled eyes lit up with a warm smile. "I have missed you, little man. No, he won't have to push the whole time. The current should do most of the work. But coming back home, well, let's just say he gets a little testy."

The days on the boat stretched ahead, and boredom settled in like a heavy fog. The snowstorm that had raged on the first day gradually abated, leaving behind a vast expanse of pristine white that seemed to swallow everything in its embrace. The river's edge, embraced by rolling hillsides, slowly gave way to the towering embrace of the mountainsides. Erin's initial curiosity turned into restlessness, and he began pestering everyone with questions and fidgeting.

Seth, Brian, and Emily tried to make the most of their time on the boat, attempting to train their Pokémon. However, the confined space made it challenging for all but Vaporeon to move around comfortably. As the third day descended into evening, the landscape outside was transformed by the radiant glow of the full moon. The snow-covered surroundings glittered like a diamond-studded blanket. Blastoise, swimming behind the boat, its shell gleaming in the moonlight as it maintained a watchful eye on their journey.

Inside the cabin, the warm glow of the old wood burner painted the surroundings with a comforting orange hue, a stark contrast to the cold world beyond the cabin's thin walls. Seated around the table, the four adults shared drinks and laughter, with the occasional interruption of Erin's hearty snores filling the gaps in their conversation. Emily's gaze was fixed on the upper bunk, where Erin lay, and she chuckled, remarking, "Seth, I'm thankful for not having to sleep on the floor, but your son… it is like sharing a bed with a hyperactive Machamp."

"He's a handful, you'd think he'd sleep like a log considering how energetic he is during the day. But I swear, he's even more animated in his sleep than when he's awake. His mother was the same way. I used to have to construct a pillow barricade in our bed," Seth replied, his laughter mixed with the sound of his fingers scratching his stubbled chin.

"I've heard Brian's story, now what about yours?" Benjamin inquired, turning his attention towards Emily.

"From an abusive mother to being sold into slavery, I managed to escape and was on a warpath until Seth intervened," Emily summarized her tumultuous journey.

Benjamin looked at her, perplexed, his hand absently scratching his head. "Okay, that's quite a lot. Can I hear the full story?" As the boat gently glided down the Cerulean River, Emily recounted her traumatic past. Her upbeat demeanor clashed starkly with the horrendous experiences she was describing. Benjamin listened intently, his brow furrowed in thought. He was especially intrigued by Emily's ability to live outside the confines of the tax system.

Seth listened closely, even though he was already familiar with most of the events. It still never failed to shock him just how much suffering this country had inflicted upon its people.

"And then, on the way to Pewter City, I ended up falling in love with the turdface over there," Emily remarked, motioning her thumb toward Erin, whose mouth hung open as he snored loudly. A silence settled over the group as Emily concluded her narrative. Each of them clutched their drinks, unsure of how to transition from such a heavy conversation.

Seth finally broke the silence, his gaze locked onto Benjamin. "Did Harold suffer?"

"We don't believe so. His neck was snapped. He never told anyone he was lagging behind. You know how he was, always reluctant to burden anyone," Benjamin replied, his eyes avoiding direct contact as he stared into his drink.

"Yeah, he was a decent soul. After my father left, he'd always make sure to check on me," Seth added.

"This world doesn't concern itself with morality, just money," Benjamin muttered, his gaze still fixed on his drink. "I'm going to give Blastoise a break," he announced, abruptly standing up, the screech of the chair breaking the momentary silence. "If you need me, I'll be outside."

The others nodded in acknowledgment, their eyes following Benjamin's departure through the door, where the biting winter air rushed into the cabin.

Seth stood gazing out of the window, his eyes fixed on the towering mountain range flanking both sides of the river. Lost in his contemplations, his thoughts were abruptly interrupted by Brian's voice. "Once we get enough money, where should we head next – Vermilion or Fuchsia?"

"Vermilion is the more viable option. We could take on Lt. Surge and then, if necessary, walk to Fuchsia in case we can't secure another ship. From there, we can challenge Koga. With those badges, you'll have enough for access to Cinnabar Island," Seth strategized. He continued, "I understand you're eager to see Glenn and Ava.” Brian nodded, his lips sealed. “We'll discuss the details later. Right now, I'm going to try and catch some sleep." Throughout the night, the boat bounced slightly through the night flowing them closer to freedom but the dread of never reaching that freedom plagued Seth as Sarah’s pressences outside each window encapsulated him.

IV​

Morning came with an all too familiar stir, as Erin's bout of cabin fever roused the occupants of the houseboat with its raucous commotion. Vulpix, less than thrilled, reluctantly partook within the confined quarters. Hearing the noise Benjamin walked back in and the cold rush of air was the final nail in the coffin to Brian’s sleep. "We're making a pit stop in the upcoming town for supplies," Benjamin announced.

"We've got enough supplies for another day at least," Emily retorted, sipping coffee at the central table.

"Well, you see," Benjamin scratched the last vestiges of his white fuzz at the back of his head, "the river's about to hit some rough rapids, and this is the last settlement along the bank before we reach Aureolin Town."

"It might be good for Erin to stretch his legs anyway, before I decide to toss him overboard," Seth chimed in, his son turning quickly attempting to protest until he saw his father’s smile.

The town materialized ahead, a modest cluster of about a hundred structures nestled beneath the looming mountain. Time had worn down the houses to a state of desperate disrepair, a reflection of countless towns across Kanto. Guided by Blastoise's efforts, the boat approached a weathered dock extending over the water. Benjamin secured the vessel and lowered the boarding ramp onto the dock.

"I'll be heading to the shop to restock; meet you all back on the boat in an hour or so," Benjamin declared, recalling Blastoise to its Pokéball and attaching it to his belt.

"Want me to come along and help?" Brian called out, raising his voice as Benjamin distanced himself.

With a quick about-face, Benjamin hollered back, "No!" before vanishing around a corner, his figure quickly swallowed by the town's backdrop.

"I wonder what's put him in such a mood," Brian mused, his hand running through his black hair as he peered in the direction Benjamin had taken.

"He was up steering the boat last night. I'd be grumpy too," Seth offered, his retort met by a smirk from Emily.

"You're always in a mood," she teased, her eyes dancing with amusement.

The small group strolled through the desolate streets of the town, which they soon realized was called Xanthic Town. The name seemed ironic against the town's stark and somber ambiance. The once-thriving community appeared abandoned, the buildings bearing the weight of time's passage with weary facades. Chipped paint and cracked windows told stories of a place that had seen better days.

As they walked, Vulpix trotted alongside Erin, her tails brushing gently against his legs. The occasional dusting of snow seemed to accentuate the melancholic scene, as if nature itself had joined in the town's mournful mood.

Then, amidst the backdrop of subdued greys and muted browns, a surprising sight appeared—a place with a dozen or so Miltanks gently roaming behind it. The establishment bore a sign that read "Miltank Milkshakes." The irony of the whimsical name in such a solemn setting was not lost on them. Curiosity piqued, they ventured closer, a rare spark of excitement flickering in their eyes. Inside, the worn-out interior the scents of freshly prepared food mingled with the warmth from the stove.

Taking a seat at one of the few tables, they placed their orders—a range of milkshakes in various flavors, from classic vanilla to indulgent chocolate. The atmosphere inside was a stark contrast to the abandoned streets. The clinking of glasses and the quiet hum of conversation enveloped them, offering a brief respite from the surrounding gloom. Erin, in particular, seemed to relish the experience, his eyes widening with each sip of the sweet treat. He managed to down two milkshakes with enthusiasm, his youthful energy momentarily overshadowing the gravity of their journey.

On their way back to the boat the citizens who braved the chill were marked by a collective air of depression, their faces etched with the burdens of their circumstances. Xanthic Town seemed trapped in a cycle of decline, an emblem of the hardships that had befallen Kanto. The fleeting moment of sweetness from the milkshakes was like a brief oasis in a desert of despair, reminding them of the small joys that still managed to bloom amidst the desolation.

They made their way back to the boat, their footsteps echoing lightly on the wooden dock. "It seems Benjamin still hasn't returned," Brian remarked, his voice carrying a note of concern. "He said he didn't need help, but I think I'll go assist him anyway," he added as they stepped back into the vessel.

"Just don't take too long. If you don't locate him within 10 minutes, come back; he shouldn't be much longer," Seth advised, his words carrying a mix of caution and urgency. Brian nodded in understanding, his determination evident in his brisk strides as he headed toward the door. Erin settled back in, engrossed in his play, while Emily and Seth found seats inside the cabin.

"Hey, everyone," Brian's voice rang out suddenly, drawing their attention. "Come out here, quick!"

Seth's response was swift and sharp, "Watch him! Incinerate anyone who isn't us!" He directed Vulpix, his tone heavy with both command and worry. The cabin door slammed shut as Seth and Emily hurried outside, their eyes following Brian's gaze.

As they reached the edge of the dock and turned their focus back to the town, a perplexing scene unfolded before them. Benjamin was standing there, pointing toward the ship, and a member of Team Rocket was exchanging money with him. The sight of two other Team Rocket operatives heightened the tension – a large, grotesque woman exuded a sinister smirk while a slender man fiddled restlessly with a Pokéball in his hand.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 16
​

Nothing Left to Lose​

Where we gonna go when there's no escape

We should see this through now for our own sake

So take another step and feel the ground shake

You don't gotta fake you wanna run

I don't think you ever knew your own strength

Always kept your comfort at an arms length

So take another step and feel the ground shake

It could give you what you'd always want



- Point North​

I​

"He fucking betrayed us!" Emily's voice rang out, as her grip tightened on the pokéballs at her hip.

"Emily Russell! Surrender peacefully," commanded the man who had exchanged money with Benjamin earlier.

"Yeah, fat fucking chance." Her eyes flicked to her companions, both nodding in unison. With a swift release of red light, her and her friends’ Pokémon materialized on the dock, forming a formidable lineup facing their adversaries. Among them were a Honchkrow, Archeops, Reuniclus, Luxray, Unfezant, and Kleavor.

"Vaporeon, freeze the windows and door of the cabin. I don't want Erin to see or risk him coming outside," Seth ordered urgently. Vaporeon responded with a nod and released a stream of ice that enveloped the door and windows facing the town, effectively concealing Erin's curious gaze behind the icy barrier.

The docks began to attract a growing crowd, drawn by the unfolding confrontation. Benjamin slipped into the background, trying to remain inconspicuous as the impending clash loomed. Three members of Team Rocket stood poised behind their Pokémon, their unwavering gazes locked onto the boat.

"Noivern, guard the boat's perimeter. Don't let anyone approach," Seth commanded, his voice resolute. Noivern let out a fierce screech and took to the sky, assuming a vigilant position above the vessel. The situation escalated as the tension reached its peak. The hulking woman among the Team Rocket trio snapped with impatience, her voice dripping with malice. "Luxray, grab her and eliminate any obstacles in your way!" The Electric-type Pokémon lunged forward, crackling with menacing energy.

“Stop it." Seth's voice cut through the mounting chaos.. Primeape sprang into action, leaping above Luxray and delivering a powerful blow to its head. Luxray crashed to the ground, blood trickling from the impact point. Seth issued another directive, his tone unwavering. "Close Combat." Primeape swiftly landed to the ground in front of Luxray and unleashed a devastating strike that dentented in its face and sent it flying, leaving Luxray twitching in front of its summoner.

“You're outmanned. Walk away and let us go on. There doesn't have to be anymore blood split.” Brian pleaded at them, stepping in front of the Pokémon of the dock.

"Look at them," Emily interjected, her voice laden with cynicism. The expressions on the faces of the Team Rocket members exuded hostility, except for the lanky figure who attempted to fade into the background, seemingly hoping to avoid notice. "They're Team Rocket, they deserve nothing less."

The tension finally gave way to action when the prominent Team Rocket member, a fit man with blond hair, bellowed a chilling command. "Kill them all and burn down that damn boat!"

Benjamin ran through the crowd pleading as he grasped the man's arm. "That wasn't part of the agreement! I need that boat, it's my home!" His efforts to reason were met with a callous shove, sending him crashing to the ground like an unwanted obstacle.

Both sides took a deliberate step forward, each sizing up their intended targets. Ceruledge’s flames danced along its body as it clashed its swords together, Torterra slammed the ground, wrenching a sturdy root from the earth. Ditto's transformation into Kleavor, Fraxure dragged its tusk, stirring up a cloud of dirt.

Seth's voice began to rise, "Torter--" but a vivid burst of red light from behind Team Rocket interrupted, capturing the attention of all present. Emerging from the light, a Mienshao took a poised stance, its owner a slim, fiery-haired woman who had an air of intensity.

"You killed my son, you wretched bitch!" The woman's seething gaze locked onto the large women in Team Rocket.

"How dare you!" The member’s words dripped with venom as her voice lashed out. However, another crimson glow manifested to her right, giving form to a Krokorok. Then, another burst of light, followed by another and another. The docks were bathed in successive red glows, materializing more Pokémon, a cascade of forms that encircled the Team Rocket.

Seth, Brian, and Emily stood awestruck, immobilized by the surreal tableau unfolding before them. The last emergence illuminated the space between the houses on the main street, revealing Zebstrika's majestic presence. The Team Rocket members found themselves flanked not only by Emily, Brian, and Seth's Pokémon, but also by a growing assembly of dozens of citizens, some harboring their newly summoned Pokémon, their collective intent directed menacingly at the beleaguered trio.

"Then you will all face your reckoning," the blond Team Rocket member snarled, his defiance punctuated by bitterness.

"Please, no!" The skinny, skittish Rocket member pleaded, frantically recalling his Unfezant. "I just want to go home, and leave Kanto!"

"Silence!" The large Team Rocket member barked, her grasp falling short as the trembling member distanced himself, inching toward the circle of citizens.

"What did he say?" Seth inquired of Emily, who exchanged a bewildered glance with him.

"Please, I surrender!" He screamed out.

"Primeape, bring him here." As the citizens closed in, shrinking the space around the Team Rocket members, Primeape seized the trembling member by the throat, dragging him toward Seth.

"Attack them!" The remaining Team Rocket members cried out, the mounting tension finally erupting as the citizens' Pokémon surged into action.

A Greninja ripped Reuniclus's skull from its body, leaving the slimed remnants of its form to collapse. Sawk grasped Kleavor's axe-like arm, severing it and striking back, decapitating Kleavor, its head rolling into the snow. Arbok deftly dodged Honchkrow's attack, sinking its venomous fangs into the bird's wing. Honchkrow's agonizing cries harmonized with Archeops's futile attempts to escape, which were thwarted by Noivern. Noivern promptly slammed Archeops back into the fray, where a Magmar ignited it, a symphony of torment that ended in their silence.

The remaining Team Rocket members fell to the ground, their desperate pleas for mercy fading amidst the encroaching citizens. The woman, her hope extinguished, reverted to seething hatred, her tear-streaked face a portrait of wrath. "When they hear of this, they'll return to reduce your pitiful town to ashes." The scene grew obscured as more citizens gathered around their tormentors, but the ensuing screams hinted at a fate far from merciful.

Seth spotted Benjamin slinking behind a building, uncertainty covering his face. They had his boat, he couldn't go anywhere. However, he also feared the retribution he rightly deserved. "Brian, could you go fetch Benjamin? I'm afraid I might not be able to control myself," Seth admitted, his voice tinged with a mixture of frustration and apprehension.

"Give me a moment," Brian acknowledged, his footsteps fading away as he headed towards the source of the now-dying screams from the Team Rocket members, disappearing around the corner of a nearby block.

Emily's voice cut through the tension, devoid of emotion or bias. "What do you plan to do with him?"

Seth ran a hand through his stubble, his eyes reflecting a mixture of sadness and conflict. "I don't know. At the end of the day, we still need him," he said, his gaze shifting towards the trembling Team Rocket grunt pinned beneath Primeape's foot.

II​

Primeape forcefully hurled the slender Team Rocket grunt toward the boat's bow, stopping just inches from the frigid water. Benjamin stood by, Brian's firm hand resting on his shoulder as they ascended the ramp.

"What are you planning to do to me?" Benjamin inquired, his voice betraying a trembling mixture of anger and fear as he looked from Seth to Emily.

"You're going to finish the job I paid you for. Get us moving," Seth replied, his voice calm yet holding an air of authority. Benjamin hesitated, attempting to speak before closing his mouth.

"I'm not sure how this will go," Seth said, his gaze fixed on the shivering Team Rocket member beneath Primeape's imposing presence. "Brian, I'm not certain you'd want to be a part of this. Can you watch over Erin and try to keep him distracted from the commotion out here?"

Brian's response was thoughtful. "We could just let him go. He surrendered."

Emily's voice was firm, unwavering. "That's not an option." Her resolute gaze remained fixed on Brian.

"Then, yes, I won't be part of this," Brian replied. Ceruledge moved to comply, melting the frozen door with a swift burst of fire before returning to its Pokéball. Brian swung the door open, only to be met with a burst of flames from within. "For fuck sake, Vulpix, it's me!"

As the boat began its drift down the river, leaving Xanthic Town behind, Seth's gaze lingered on the fading sight. He hoped against hope that the brave citizens who had stood up would somehow be alright, yet he couldn't ignore the gnawing feeling of grim inevitability. Unfortunately, his gut feeling was right.

Emily's swift kick struck the surviving Team Rocket member's side, eliciting a pained cry. "What's your name?" she demanded.

"Jimmy. It's Jimmy," the man gasped, his voice carrying a mix of pain and desperation. "Please, I surrender. I just want to go home."

"Yeah, about that… Where is home?" Seth inquired, his voice close and probing.

"It's... it's..." Jimmy stammered, his response cut short by another painful kick from Emily. "Vermillion. It’s Vermillion."

Seth's voice was low and steady as he knelt down towards Jimmy. "You have one chance to stop this. Or..." He gestured towards Noivern hovering above, a silent yet ominous presence.

“Vermillion, I told you!" Jimmy pleaded, his voice tinged with desperation.

"Fine. Noivern, submerge him," Seth commanded abruptly. Before Jimmy could offer any resistance, Noivern had him tightly gripped by both arms, lowering him into the icy river. Frantic hands emerged from the water, clawing desperately at the air.

After almost a minute Seth ordered,"Noivern, bring him back.” He complied, lifting Jimmy out of the water and depositing him on the boat's deck, his body convulsing from the cold.

"Where are you from?" Emily's voice held a steely edge.

"Please, they'll kill me," Jimmy cried.

"I'll kill you if you don't start telling the truth," Emily snapped. Lairon's imposing presence loomed beside her.

"Lairon," Emily instructed, her voice chillingly composed. Lairon's foot descended, pinning Jimmy's groin beneath its weight but hovering enough to not crush it completely. “Where are you from?”

“Blackthorn City, okay. I am from Blackthorn.” Both Emily and Seth shared a look of their worst fears flooding into them as the realization of the last decade of Team Rocket occupation becoming abundantly clear.

"How many others from Team Rocket are from Johto?" Seth's voice was firm, unwavering.

"I don't know," Jimmy wailed in pain.

"Lairon," Emily repeated, her voice a steady command. Lairon suddenly used all its force to pressure down crushing Jimmy beneath his immense weight, his cries intensifying amidst the relentless agony. The screams echoed across the river bank, a chorus of torment that chilled the air.

"ALL of them! ALL of them!" Jimmy's voice trembled with pain, his words strained and broken, his resistance shattered.

"They've been invading us all along," Emily uttered, her voice heavy with disbelief and shock.

Jimmy's hysterical laughter emerged amidst his suffering. "Invading? Don't make me laugh. We were sent here to stop the constant attacks your kind launches at us!"

Seth's voice thundered with outrage. "Look around you! Have you seen any resistance? The fight back there was the first time I've seen Kantonians stand against you. There hasn't been a military operation from Johto since the Mount Silver Massacre almost 16 years ago!"

"You started the war! You're the reason my dad is dead." Jimmy screamed beginning to become more unhinged.

"I was eight when the war broke out. I didnt do shut." Seth replied coolly.

"You attack us incessantly! It's all over our news. You slaughter our people. We need to be here to assert control," Jimmy retorted through his pain as he held his blood soaked crotch.

"You stupid fuck! Primeape.” Seth's voice rang out, seething with frustration. Primeape gripped Jimmy's throat, his voice a whisper amidst the cold air. "And now, I'm done with you, Emily. Anything more to ask?"

Emily's voice was a chilling declaration. "No."

Seth's gaze held a weight of finality. "Please… Please…. Don’t." Jimmy's voice barely audible from the pressure exerting on his neck as his hands tried desperately to claw out.

Primeape acted swiftly, lifting him off the ground by his throat, and snapping his neck with a brutal motion. The lifeless body was discarded into the water.

III​

"Daddy!" Erin's voice rang out, breaking the tension in the cabin.

Seth, embracing his son tightly, and asked Brian, "Did he see or hear anything?" Brian nodded slightly while holding his hand horizontal then shaking it, indicating a possibility.

"I'm sorry if I scared you, buddy. But I'm glad you're safe," Seth reassured his son.

"It's okay. Vulpix wouldn't play with me though; she kept staring at the door," Erin replied.

"Well, why don't you go play? Dad needs to talk to Brian real quick," Seth suggested.

"Okie dokie," Erin responded cheerfully, giving his father another hug before heading to the lower bunk.

"What did he say?" Brian inquired as he took a seat at the central table bench.

"They're Johtoians," Emily stated bluntly.

"Impossible, why would he ever leave Johto to come here. Even if it was to torture us." Brian shot back.

"No, it’s all of them," Seth affirmed.

“What do you mean, all of them?" Brian asked, his bewilderment evident as he ran a hand through his hair.

Emily clarified with emphasis, "All. Of. Them. He thought we were still at war."

Brian shook his head in disbelief. "That's ridiculous. They're violent tax collectors. How could they think we're at war?"

"He mentioned that their news reports Kanto launching attacks on Johto, and they're here to defend against those perceived attacks. It seems they view this occupation as a defensive measure, and the taxes as something akin to regular taxes in Johto," Emily explained.

"Do Johtoians face execution if they don't pay taxes?" Brian inquired, his tone somber. Seth merely shrugged, uncertain about the answer.

Benjamin entered the cabin, and a heavy silence fell over the room as all eyes turned to him. "Listen, Seth—"

"I assume you tried to sell the information that Emily was a tax dodger," Seth interrupted bluntly.

"Yes, but—" Benjamin began.

"How fucking much?" Emily interjected, her gaze fixed on him.

"Seven hundred and fifty dollars," Benjamin confessed, his eyes drifting to the floor while Emily scoffed loudly.

"It doesn't make sense. Why not charge us more for me and Erin's trip if you needed the money?" Seth's realization dawned as he voiced the thought. "You overcharged us for this trip?"

"Another ship could have brought you here for half that price, maybe even less," Benjamin stammered, still avoiding eye contact. "I was afraid if I charged you more, you would have sought another option. But I still need about two thousand more before they collect next month."

"Give Emily the money they paid you," Seth instructed calmly.

"Seth, please, I need it. I was scared after Sarah and then Harold and so many others. I was terrified of not meeting their demands," Benjamin pleaded.

"I gave you two thousand for this trip, and you can keep that. But that seven hundred and fifty doesn't belong to you. Give it to her and then leave," Seth stated in a monotone voice, holding back his emotions. He couldn't believe he wasn't exploding with anger right then and there. This was someone he had trusted since childhood, and now that trust had been shattered.

"Okay," Benjamin replied, slowly making his way to Emily, placing the money in front of her before disappearing into the winter air outside.

IV​

The next few days crept by sluggishly. They reached yet another town, which, unsurprisingly, contradicted Benjamin's claim of there being none, as towns dotted the riverbank much like tributaries flowing into the main current. Finally, on the eighth morning, Aureolin Town emerged into view. Although not as sprawling or populous as a city like Commerce, it still held an imposing stature compared to the small villages they had encountered on their journey. Upon disembarking at the dock, Benjamin barely spared them a glance, focused on directing Blastoise to start the trek upriver.

The city seemed almost hewn out of the mountainside, towering abruptly rather than gradually ascending. Making their way to the eastern side of the city, the bustling commerce at the dock created a hectic scene. One truth emerged from Benjamin's words – the journey ended with a truly spectacular waterfall. This colossal cascade spanned the entire river's width, plummeting a daunting fifty feet. Due to the inability to move further down river Aureolin seemed to be a waystation to channel goods toward the East coast, with numerous merchants unloading cargo and peddling their wares amid the bustling activity.

"Come on, Seth, let's find someone who can guide us to Lavender Town," Emily suggested, prompting a nod from Seth, who hoisted Erin onto his shoulders to keep track of his spirited son amidst the lively streets.

Eventually, they arrived at a weathered-looking hotel, its yellow paint on the front sign advertising vacancies. Stepping inside, the interior of the city appeared more inviting than its exterior, with thriving businesses and a bustling atmosphere.

"Pardon me," Emily inquired politely, and the front desk clerk raised a stern gaze toward her.

"How many rooms?" the woman asked curtly.

"No, we don't need a room. We're trying to reach Lavender Town."

The clerk produced a map that was markedly superior to the one Seth had been using. "You could venture through the mountains to the south of the city, but I wouldn't advise it in the winter. Instead, take the path eastward of the city, descending below the cliffside. Follow the river east until you encounter a fork in its course. Once you reach that point, continue along the river as it flows south." The clerk's wrinkled old finger traced an imaginary line on the map, indicating the path. "There'll be a break in the mountain range on the opposite side of the river, right here." She pointed emphatically at the designated spot. "About a day's walk after the fork, this will lead you directly into the city of Lavender."

“Okay, Thank You.” Emiily said gratefully.

“Just be careful, they say the mountains are haunted.”

“Uh-huh,” Seth said, disbelieving. "How much for the map?" The clerk turned her gaze towards him, sizing him up to gauge how much she could charge.

"Two hundred." she responded

"Fifty."

"You're being unreasonable, young man," she retorted.

"One hundred," he countered under his breath. She offered a smirk and began folding the map as Seth extracted the necessary funds.

"Do you folks want a room before you set off?" Observing the three weary adults and the lively Erin.

"No, thank you," Emily declined, if she was stuck in another confined space she might truly snap. Stepping back outside, they were met with a blast of chilly air. The encircling mountains lent Seth an almost claustrophobic sensation as they loomed on all sides.

V​

The narrow cliff side to the right of the waterfall was a rugged, icy expanse that gripped the edge of the towering mountain range. A rocky trail, no wider than a few feet, clung perilously to the cliff's edge. Jagged rocks protruded here and there, creating a treacherous path. The snow that had accumulated in the high crevices was now melting, and the rise of the mist that hung in the air from the waterfall, didn’t make this trial any easier for them. The mist-laden air clung to their clothes, and the chill bit through the layers.

The beauty of the surroundings was undeniable, despite the challenging terrain. The imposing mountains cast their shadows over the landscape, their craggy peaks and icy facets shimmering in the soft light. The sun's rays filtered through the mist, creating an ethereal play of light and a rainbow that held Erin’s attention.

Seth's anxiety was high, however, as he navigated the hazardous descent. His constant worry for Erin's safety played like a loop in his mind. The sound of running water from the waterfall above, combined with the crunch of snow and rocks underfoot, formed a cacophonous backdrop to his racing thoughts. He also battled his own inner demons with Sarah's taunts that seemed to echo in the rushing wind.

During their journey, there came a moment when Emily's footing faltered, dislodging pebbles and rocks that cascaded down the cliff's edge. However, her swift reflexes prevented a more perilous outcome as she regained her balance just in time. Roughly half an hour later, their perseverance paid off as they reached a level expanse, the rugged cliffside finally giving way to flat ground. With the river now beside them, serving as a steadfast guide, Seth, Erin, Emily, and Brian steadily pressed on toward Lavender Town. The startling revelation of Team Rocket's true identity lingered in their thoughts, casting a shadow of uncertainty over their trip.

 

[Sarnick18]

Chapter 17
​

The Mountain​

Have I just become a monolith

Somewhere in between gallant and grotesque?

Well, I could never find peace in emptiness

With these drums of war pounding in my chest

Pounding in my chest

We're not concerned, just mad



- Of Mice & Men​

I​

For the next week, the group embarked on a serene and pleasant journey, tracing the river's course. They followed the water's meandering path with the sunlight glinting off its surface, creating a calming and rhythmic backdrop to their travels.

As they moved eastward, the river eventually reached a fork, merging into another watercourse that flowed northward. The transition was seamless, with the tranquility of the journey remaining undisturbed. The murmur of the river and the occasional calls of pokémon filled the air as they continued upstream along the new branch of the river.

The landscape shifted gradually as they ventured upwards while moving south. Snow-capped mountains loomed, their majestic peaks an awe-inspiring sight. The weather gradually warmed uncharacteristically from the Kanto winters, causing the snow to melt slowly and unveil the earth beneath. During their trip, the group found moments of respite to train and spar. Amidst the beauty of nature, they honed their skills and deepened their bonds. In between bouts of training, they took time to admire the scenery, appreciating the natural wonders surrounding them.

II​

As the path ascended towards the towering mountains, a remarkable sight gradually unfolded before them. A colossal edifice, unlike anything Seth had ever laid eyes upon, came into view. It stood boldly, commanding attention with its sheer size and distinct design. The structure was a symphony of industrial innovation and architectural marvel. Its grandeur was unrivaled, featuring an expansive construction with four immense towers rising from its core. These towers pierced the sky, forming an imposing silhouette against the horizon.

Erin's curious voice broke through the awe-filled silence, seeking understanding from his father. "Dad, what is that?"

"It's a power plant," he responded, addressing not only Erin but everyone present.

Emily stared curiously at the out of place structure. "I don't see any smoke coming from it. Perhaps there's someone there who can assist us in crossing the river. Look, over there, between those two mountain peaks. That's the gap the lady at the hotel mentioned." The mountains flanking the structure's expansive view formed a gateway, offering a visible passage to the other side. The path beneath the peaks was unmistakable, a beckoning invitation leading to new horizons.

Acknowledging the potential, Seth took a proactive step. "Let's release one Pokémon each. We need to be prepared for anything." His request was met with compliance as Ampharos and Lairon emerged, ready.

"Have you ever seen a power plant like that?" Emily's curiosity sparked a conversation as they neared the impressive structure.

Seth shook his head slightly, his gaze fixed on the monumental edifice ahead. "No, I've seen smaller ones, like Cerulean's. But nothing on this scale. When Team Rocket took control, they cut off power outside the city, so we relied on generators and electric Pokémon to get by."

"That's pretty rough," Brian commented, adding his perspective. "I never really thought about life outside the city. I always had access to power."

Their footsteps carried them closer to the power plant, revealing its sheer size in even greater detail. The panorama surrounding the structure gradually unveiled itself. As they ascended the hill leading to the power plant, a vast lake nestled between the mountains encircling it came into view. Winter's snowmelt filled the lake, and the resulting flow powered the plant as it eventually merged with the river they had been following. Encircling the structure, a collection of wind turbines, numbering between ten and twenty, stood like silent sentinels. Yet, it was unmistakable that this building had been abandoned for quite some time. Ivy climbed against its eastern side, the lawn was incredibly unkempt with nature overtaking the walkways and not a single person was seen.

“Should we go in?” Seth asked the group. When suddenly a shrill sound, akin to a large Pokémon's cry, echoed out of the building, sending shivers down their spines.

"That's a no from me man." Brian responded.

Emily, however, caught sight of something else. She pointed towards a smaller structure by the water. "Look down there. Could that be a boathouse?"

Seth's skepticism was evident. "Do you really think we'd be that lucky, finding a boat ready for use?"

Erin's optimism shone through as he chimed in, "Maybe!" He settled on a stair, absorbing the serene beauty of the lake and the towering peaks.

Emily shook her head in playful disbelief. "Well, if not, we'll have to take the long route around the lake, which could eat up an entire day. But I love your optimism, Erin. Let's check it out!" She extended her hand to help him up, the prospect of adventure gleaming in her eyes.

Ampharos gazed longingly into the building, as if it yearned for something within. Its red tail gem glowed with an intensity that seemed almost urgent. Brian called out to it three times, its name ringing through the air like a beckoning call. After what felt like an eternity, Ampharos broke free from its trance, finally tearing its gaze away and descending the stairs to join them on the front lawn. On the other side of the doors, unbeknownst to them, lay the grim sight of three human skeletons and a Spinda's skeletal remains, frozen in their final moments of reaching out for a safety that had forever eluded them.

III​

Nature had taken back all of the space in front of the Power Plant, with young trees gaining a foothold over the years of neglect. Amid the tall grass and shrubs, long passed decayed bodies of humans and Pokémon were scattered, their remnants not visible passed the foliage from the walkways. Yet, the group pressed forward, their gaze fixated on the beauty of the crystal blue lake reflecting the sunlight.

Brian's enthusiasm was evident as he said, "We're filling our waters up here. That water looks delicious," his face lighting up with a wide grin. Suddenly, a piercing shriek pierced the air, instantly erasing the mirth. All eyes turned back to the power plant, where the unsettling sound originated. "Seth, I'm really not liking this," Brian confessed, his demeanor shifting as one hand clutched his shoulder.

Seth shared Brian's discomfort, his words weighed with concern. "I don't either. Let's just hurry and cross the lake." The sky above transformed rapidly, storm clouds gathering between the mountain peaks over the power plant and spreading over the water with unnatural speed. Lightning forked the air, striking one of the middle venting towers. Thunder rumbled around them, and Erin sought refuge by burying his face in his father's chest, whispering pleas to make it stop. Emily quickly acted, recalling Lairon to her Pokéball, knowing the large Pokémon could become a lightning rod in this storm. The urgency in her movements was clear.

As a group, they sprinted towards the boat house, the situation escalating as they went. Ampharos struggled to keep up, lagging behind. With a series of deafening cracks, three more bolts of lightning struck the power plant, as if the storm was venting its fury upon it. A bolt of lightning struck Ampharos, causing Brian to call out in alarm. The gem on Ampharos's tail glowed brighter than ever, as if channeling the very essence of the storm. The Pokémon's speed surged, and it rapidly closed the distance, catching up to them in an instant.

The shrieks from the building continued as lightning struck it repeatedly, creating a constant deafening boom that drowned out any communication. Drawing closer to the building, they encountered six skeletal figures sprawled in front of the doors. Four of them were human, while two were Pokémon. Brian and Seth’s fingers clutched the door handle just as lightning ignited a nearby tree into flames. Seth and Brian joined forces, pushing against the doors with all their might, but they barely budged an inch. "Damn it, Emily, hold onto Erin," Seth instructed, quickly passing his son to her. He then released Primeape from his Pokéball. "Break down this door," he pleaded with the newly summoned Pokémon. Without hesitation, Primeape unleashed a series of powerful punches against the door. Each strike resulted in an inch of progress until finally, the door flung open, hurling the skeletons inside across the room. "Get in, go!" Seth shouted at his friends. Another bolt of lightning struck the building, and as Seth turned around after closing the door, he witnessed yellow wings emerging.

As he turned the building's true nature became clear. A massive section on the far side of the structure, hanging over the lake, had been completely torn away. It seemed as though a colossal force had peeled the wall off, taking parts of the ceiling with it. They now stood on a concrete floor that descended to a wooden dock, where a lone boat was tied with its bow bobbing in the water, half submerged. The floor was strewn with bodies, some of which still had patches of dried skin clung to them. Their clothes draped over them were now far too large for their decayed forms. Among the grim scene were the skeletal remains of Pokémon, their identities impossible to discern amidst the cacophony of thunder, Erin’s crying and the shrieking of the newly emerged Pokémon.

"What should we do?" Brian yelled, straining his voice to be heard. A shadow cast itself through the gaping wall and the exposed water beyond, capturing their collective attention. Slowly, the shadow revealed its true form as it hovered over the lake. A Zapdos emerged, its yellow and black wings outstretched. Lightning struck its body, prompting a piercing shriek from its beak before releasing a torrent of electricity into the water within the boat house. The resulting flash of light temporarily blinded them, causing Emily to instinctively shield Erin from harm as the ground trembled beneath them.

Seth quickly rose to his feet and scooped Erin from Emily's arms just as another burst of lightning illuminated the boat house. "We need to find cover!" he yelled at the top of his lungs. As yet another bolt of lightning crackled into the water, a new sound pierced the air, something unlike anything Seth had ever heard. It was as if a melody and a roar were intertwined, originating from the water's depths, the sound engulfing everything around them. Zapdos momentarily shifted its focus away from the group, its beady eyes scanning the waters.

Frozen with fear, the group watched their assailant, powerless to take action as the ethereal song gradually enveloped them. Zapdos let out another ear-piercing shriek, its beak pointing skyward before diving down, channeling a colossal lightning bolt into the water. Just outside the impact zone, a massive white figure breached the surface. Over top of its white body, blue scales over its eyes and ran down its back. Its wings unfolding and propelling its head skyward as it catapulted into the air, crashing into Zapdos.

IV​

"It's Lugia!" Emily's voice carried the realization. Zapdos swiftly regained its composure, soaring back into the air, and unleashed another barrage of lightning at Lugia, causing the colossal creature to descend rapidly into the lake and vanish beneath the surface. Zapdos's cries echoed once more as bolts of lightning began incessantly bombarding the water's surface. A bright whitish-orange beam erupted from the water, clashing with Zapdos in a burst of energy. Water surged like a bowl, skillfully capturing the falling Zapdos. The Legendary Pokémon, Lugia, emerged from the lake on the opposite shore, positioning itself between Zapdos and the group. Its song roared loudly once again, while Zapdos thrashed within its aqueous prison, attempting to break free.

Lugia craned its head towards the sky, a radiant white-orange light materializing and growing until it released in a brilliant burst, directed at Zapdos. The beam flung Zapdos high into the air, sailing over the boat house and crashing into the power plant.

The tranquil hush enveloped the lake as Lugia spread its wings, holding itself aloft in anticipation of Zapdos's next move. Amid this calm, as the rain gently descended upon them, Lugia's melodic song resounded with power once more, and the creature gracefully submerged beneath the water's surface.

"What the actual fuck!" Emily exclaimed, her voice carrying a mix of disbelief and shock, as all of them stared at the now placid water. At the point where the lake met the river below, Lugia resurfaced with a powerful breach, taking to the skies and flying eastward over the towering mountains.

"Where is it heading, Dad?" Erin inquired, still holding tightly onto his father.

"Home," Seth replied, his gaze fixed on the spot where Lugia vanished behind the peaks.

"Looks like we just used up a lifetime's worth of luck," Brian quipped in a lighthearted tone.

"I... I'm..." Emily trailed off, at a loss for words and struggling to process the surreal turn of events. "What the actual fuck!"

Finally, the four of them, accompanied by Vulpix and Ampharos, cautiously stepped out of the boat house. Their eyes fell upon Zapdos's prone form, collapsed atop the power plant structure, blood seeping from its wounds and staining its feathers.

"I still can't believe how fortunate we were," Brian mused, his hand running through his dark hair as he stared at Zapdos's unconscious form. A sudden noise from the rubble beneath the fallen Pokémon made him flinch, momentarily thinking the colossal creature was stirring.

"Fortunate?" Seth's puzzled gaze fixated on Brian, as if struggling to comprehend how he could use such a word.

"Yeah, fortunate. Lugia saved us back there," Brian replied, still not taking his eyes off Zapdos, who held his fascination.

"We were anything but fortunate. As usual, luck wasn't on our side," Seth countered, finally capturing Brian's attention. "Lugia didn't intervene for us, nor did we wake up Zapdos. Unfortunately, we just happened to be the first thing in sight as Lugia closed in on it." Seth's tone implied that this should be a glaringly obvious fact.

"What will happen to Zapdos?" Erin's voice piped up, positioning himself in front of his father, his gaze drawn to the crumbling power plant, Vulpix at his side.

"I don't know, but it's not our concern," Seth responded, his hand resting on his son's curly black hair.

V​

As they began to leave the power plant's premises, the detritus beneath Zapdos continued to give way, the sound of bricks, plaster, metal, and rubble falling echoing in their ears. The group was heading around the lake, aiming to finally make their way toward Lavender Town. Erin found it difficult to tear his eyes from his shoulder, periodically glancing toward Zapdos, still inert on the deteriorating structure. The sounds of crumbling debris accompanied them as they moved away from the power plant.

Magicarp, Feebas, Goldeen, Remoraid, and other water Pokémon corpses floated to the lake's surface, drifting ashore next to them. The storm clouds that had amassed during the battle finally dissipated, allowing the sun's rays to grace the lake and the peaks above.

"It's strange," Emily observed. The others turned their heads, awaiting her continuation. "Normally, we'd hear or at least see Pokémon all around us, but now it's just eerily quiet."

Silence was the unanimous agreement, for witnessing a battle of that scale was something Seth hoped to avoid in the future. Despite secretly relishing the spectacle, the thought of both him and Erin being caught in the crossfire was disconcertingly close to home. Before they could reach the gap leading to the next area, the sun began its descent to the west, compelling them to set up camp alongside the lake. The power plant stood starkly across the water. The setting sun's light gently kissed the structure before vanishing behind the mountains. Suddenly, a piercing shriek reverberated through the lake, freezing everyone in their tracks. They stared, their senses heightened, as a form appeared small from their distance, roughly three miles away. With bated breath, they watched Zapdos stir, causing a tower to collapse with a deafening echo against the mountainous backdrop. Though Zapdos didn't take flight, its yellow and black silhouette vanished into the power plant.

The campfire's warmth battled against the night's chill, and the scent of food, as plain as it was, mingled in the air as everyone and their Pokémon savored the meal.

"I believe we should take shifts for watch tonight," Seth suggested as they all dug into their food, as if it were the first sustenance in days.

"Seth, if that thing starts moving again, we'll hear it before it poses a threat. Let's just get some sleep before we head to Lavender tomorrow," Emily insisted.

"I suppose you're right," Seth conceded. "My adrenaline's still pumping from earlier."

"Tell me about it! Hate to admit it, but that was probably the most amazing thing I've ever witnessed," Brian exclaimed with youthful excitement.

VI​

The night dwindled into its final moments. Despite Seth's desire for sleep, he found it elusive. Erin, completely passed out, had his foot stretched across Seth's face with the other digging into his rib, while Brian's snores filled the camp. Sleep seemed out of reach for him. The intense battle he had witnessed certainly played a role, but it was only a part of the reason. What was the true plan here? To hide in Lavender Town and hopefully scrape together enough to pay his taxes in six months? Sure, he could take on some gym leaders, but how could he ever make enough while also providing for Erin? Sarah's haunting words echoed through his mind, the relentless drumbeat of "You can't save him" repeating endlessly.

Vulpix began twitching in her sleep, and Erin's sleeping fists launched a miniature windmill of motion that finally pushed Seth out of the tent. He started walking silently along the calm, peaceful water of the lake, its surface reflecting the moon's image like a perfect mirror. He glanced up at the mountains and felt a pang of envy as he watched the monoliths standing steadfast in the cold winter gusts that relentlessly battered their sides. They remained unyielding, unmoved, uncaring by whatever was thrown at them. Two formidable creatures like Zapdos and Lugia notwithstanding could wreak havoc on the world, yet these mountains stood firm, unshaken, uncaring.

The tent and the faint glow of the dying embers seemed distant now, thanks to the distance Seth had walked. He couldn't even understand why he traveled this far and was unable to prevent the onslaught of emotions that followed. He finally allowed himself to release everything he had been holding inside, letting out loud, painful sobs. With each sob, he expelled the heavy baggage that had burdened him for so long. It began with the near miss he had experienced earlier in the day, the sense of powerlessness he felt when he couldn't shield his son from Zapdos' onslaught. Benjamin's betrayal weighed heavily on him, as did his loss to Misty and his inability to provide immediate relief for Erin. He felt guilt for failing to protect Erin from the Hypno incident. The death of Sarah haunted him, the feeling of responsibility for her passing, and the pain of watching his mother and mother-in-law waste away from illness, powerless to prevent their suffering. Seth's own father leaving added to his feelings of helplessness, as he was unable to stop any of the heartbreak that had unfolded.

Amid the snow-covered landscape, Seth's anguish found solace in the embrace of the wintry night. Sarah's haunting presence seemed to recede into the darkness, her disturbing chant finally silenced. For a fleeting moment, Seth's eyes deceived him, replacing Sarah's grotesque image with that of his true wife — her radiant skin, lush hair, and infectious smile that Erin seemed to have inherited. Gradually, his tears ceased their flow, and he was able to slow his breaths as the chill air brushed against his cheeks.

VII​

"How long have you been awake?" Emily's voice cut through the stillness of the morning as she emerged from her tent. Seth merely shrugged in response, not providing an answer but offering a gentle smile as she settled down next to him. The sun bathed the camp in its warm glow, while the small waves of the lake contributed a soft, soothing rhythm to the quietude that surrounded them.

Seth's gratitude found a voice, his words simple yet sincere. "Thank you." He looked not at Emily, but at the tranquil expanse of crystal blue water and the ruins of the power plant in the distance.

"What the fuck brought this on?"

"Thank you," Seth repeated, his voice carrying the weight of his emotions. A tear slipped down his cheek, capturing a fleeting gleam of sunlight as it fell.

Emily paused, her gaze also fixed on the water. "Being with you and Erin, it's..." She hesitated, thinking of the sister she had lost. "These past six months have been the fucking happiest I've experienced in a very long time, despite all the challenges we've faced recently. I love you both."

Seth's hand found its place on Emily's arm, a wordless reassurance that their connection was as genuine as his words. Emily's heart was warmed by his touch, even though his eyes remained on the horizon. "These six months have been the worst time in my life, but despite all the hardships, you've made them bearable. I love you too." Their shared sentiment blossomed under the morning sun, illuminating their bond and brightening their friendship.