Pokémon The Vaporeon Cycle: Frost Spirals

[val-triplicate]

Art by Corvaeon

An amnesiac Vaporeon wakes up at the end of an unfamiliar dungeon. As the stress begins to unravel her, a dangerous conspiracy unravels around her.
​

Welcome to The Vaporeon Cycle! This is a series of three books adapted from a story I wrote with a close friend - the first one is a little less polished than the latter two, but I think it's still good. Look forward to Now and Forever and When the Smoke Clears when I get around to posting them too!

It does get a bit dark! Be prepared for some heavy violence, especially in the first act. I also have a more in-depth warnings document on my website. In general, it's mostly one act of violence and a whole lot of angst 'n' depression that you'll have to worry about.

Spoiler: Content Warnings

• Violence (frequent)
• Amnesia and mental manipulation
• Blood and gore
• Depression and self-loathing (frequent)
• Disability (managed but not cured)
• Murder
• Coercion and threat of harm
• Eating disorders (not body-image related)
• Self-harm (refusing to eat)
• Torture (mentioned)
• Abuse (mentioned)
• Suicide (mentioned)

There's a more complete version on my site, too! You can find that here. It's all up to personal preference, but there's some fun formatting tricks I can only pull on a proper PDF. You'll still get a good experience here, but this version doesn't have the fancy text colors and fonts like most other mirrors do. I also have it up on PMDFF and Ao3, for fans of those sites.

That's all for now! I'll let you get to the story, so sit back and enjoy!

 

[val-triplicate]

Tall grass swayed lazily in the center of a dim clearing. A small blue creature shook her head with pain and confusion.

Her mind felt blank. No memories came to her, and the world around her felt no more familiar. Save for her, the clearing contained only a short stone pedestal. The area itself was oddly regular – the tangle of trees surrounding her felt more like walls than a living forest.

VAPOREON: What– ugh. My fucking head...

She sat down grumpily. Time to take stock.

She was a Pokemon, named... Vaporeon, presumably. She didn't remember if she had a name. Pokemon typically didn't, but some chose them to stick out. Her species was quadrupedal, semi-aquatic, and around average in terms of size. She was a good swimmer, she assumed. Her fins had to be there for something.

Vaporeon was in... a dungeon, she decided. Her memory there was fragmented too, but she remembered the basic concept. A dungeon was an area that randomly shifted in layout. They tended to be similar in structure, so to speak, with the materials based on the surrounding area. She could have sworn there was one made out of clouds somewhere.

New resources appeared every time the layout changed, so Pokemon with more brawn than marketable skills often chose dungeon life over the surface. Competition for space could get fierce. There was something about bosses, too... her head hurt even worse. Enough thinking.

Vaporeon stood up slowly. She tried a slow stretch and toppled over immediately. Practically her entire front-left leg was missing – that would have been nice to know sooner. All that was left was a stump that showed no signs of scarring. She examined the rest of her body; her fins were angled oddly for her species, but that felt rather less important.

Vaporeon stayed on the ground for a while. Here she was, lost and alone, with nothing to her name but pain and uncertainty. There was no reason to get back up. Where would she even go? Out, she supposed. Whatever answers she needed, they weren't here. Turning swiftly to the room's only exit – too swiftly, her headache informed her – Vaporeon left.

The next clearing opened just as wide as the previous, though at least with more light to see by. A campfire crackled by the exit. Two Pokemon rested next to it – a Luxio and a Wartortle – and a Flareon patrolled the area. None of them had noticed Vaporeon yet, as far as she could tell.

Wartortle pointed a claw at the book he and Luxio were bent over. He seemed a little small for his species, but the scars all across his shell gave his cocky grin some credence. He said something she couldn't hear and laughed uproariously. The Luxio didn't manage more than a conciliatory chuckle. He was larger than Vaporeon by quite a bit, and sparks crackled from his fur as he groomed himself.

Vaporeon stumbled back into the entrance. Had these Pokemon done something to her? Her claws flexed as she tallied up her options. They might not even be aggressive, if she was friendly, but that was a hell of a risk. She could also go in fangs blazing, and they might just surrender. She didn't like her chances against the Electric-type lion, but they didn't have to know that.

Flareon turned a corner on its patrol, and Vaporeon was certain it was looking directly at her. It stood there for a moment. She held her breath.

It moved on, as if it had nothing on its mind. Before she could think better of it, she quietly followed behind. She was getting used to her form, but the altered gait forced heavy footsteps upon her. After only a few seconds, Flareon sat down.

FLAREON: Bold of you to sneak up on me.

Its voice was steady, but its muscles were tense. It didn't turn to face her.

VAPOREON: I'm just trying to figure out what's going on.
FLAREON: Worry about your safety, first.
VAPOREON: Are you going to attack me, then?
FLAREON: You're not worth my time. I'll let the others pick you off.
VAPOREON: And if they win?

It sneered at her. Pure hatred coiled beneath its uninterested facade.

FLAREON: Don't let that happen.
FLAREON: That's my last handout, before I kill you myself.

Vaporeon's blood boiled. Whether this was their fault or not didn't matter anymore. Everyone in this room was out to get her, and it was the last mistake they'd ever make.

 

[val-triplicate]

Luxio noticed her first. He jumped up, but he wasn't quick enough. Before he could act, she sent him careening into a tree with a torrential blast of water. He crumpled to the ground. Wartortle jumped into a battle pose.

WARTORTLE: Hey, what the fuck? Coward move!

The turtle prepared to attack, but Vaporeon was already on him. She dashed forwards, shockingly fast despite the missing leg. He was ready, and ducked under her bite to counter with an uppercut.

Vaporeon howled with pain. Her mouth charged with frigid energy. Wartortle kept up the pressure, striking just out of range. She couldn't quite get a lock on him, but that was fine. She feinted a stumble, watched as he stepped in to attack, and fired.

Wartortle was no stranger to a scrap, and he knew what the sudden chill meant. He whirled around just fast enough, and his shell took the full force of an attack that would have easily knocked him cold. The now ice-laden turtle lurched to the side and fell over.

Vaporeon hesitated, uncertain. She'd gotten carried away again. She didn't want to hurt anyone, right? Maybe this situation could still be salvaged if she apologized. Maybe Flareon was wrong about them.

Maybe they'd kill her if she let her guard down, though. As the turtle landed on her back, she realized she just had.

Wartortle's balance wasn't perfect, but he'd managed to compensate for the ice on his shell, and hooked his claws deep into her back. Vaporeon snapped at him uselessly. He continued to bite and slash at her as she flailed. She pointed her face down instead, and put all of her strength into a single blast of water.

The two Pokemon hurtled towards the sky. Wartortle lost his grip quickly and fell down with a cry. Pain tore through his body as he landed, but he wasn't quite ready to give up yet. He crawled back shakily up to his knees.

It was good that he did, as his shell helped mitigate the pain of what landed on him. A tortured gasp broke from his lungs as he was knocked unconscious.

Vaporeon whirled around, searching for the next threat. Luxio was barely back up to his feet, but he raised a paw in surrender. That just left Flareon. It stared at her with an expression she couldn't quite place.

If it wanted to play hardball, she could play hardball. She grabbed the unconscious turtle by his shell and dragged him over to Flareon.

VAPOREON: This guy your friend? Wanna see me tear his throat out?
VAPOREON: Or should I do the same to you?
LUXIO: Hey, hey, come on lady! Don't you think that's a little much?
LUXIO: You win, you get to move on, no one needs to die over this!
FLAREON: Don't mistake my hatred towards you for affection towards them.
FLAREON: I'm sure you're dying to kill him, no matter what I say. Don't stop on my account.

She whipped her head up, bringing the hard turtle shell against Flareon's chin. There was a loud crack as it hit, but a quick glance showed that Flareon wasn't the one who'd been injured.

VAPOREON: So you DO know who I am!
FLAREON: I know you're a violent monster who deserves every ounce of suffering that comes your way.
FLAREON: Of course, anyone who saw you now would reach the same conclusion.
VAPOREON: Fuck you. FUCK. YOU.
VAPOREON: I wouldn't have even fought them if you didn't push me into it!
FLAREON: Don't lie to me. Don't lie to yourself.
VAPOREON: This is going nowhere, I don't even care anymore.

She carefully laid Wartortle down, and stormed over to the lion.

VAPOREON: You. Sparky. Over here.
LUXIO: I- I don't know what's going on, man. Please don't kill us.
VAPOREON: Nobody's going to die if you do what I say.
VAPOREON: Pack me some supplies, and carry it for me.
LUXIO: Of course. I'll pack you everything we have, ma'am.
VAPOREON: Not everything. Wartortle is too injured to fend for itself.
VAPOREON: Flareon can fucking starve for all I care.
LUXIO: You're right, without the Dawn Stone...
LUXIO: What are you even doing here anyway? It's still missing.
VAPOREON: I have no idea what the hell you're talking about.
LUXIO: Um, the anchor. It's not important.
LUXIO: Wartortle should mostly be fine by himself. We have backup stuff for this.
VAPOREON: You're better off coming with me anyway. You saw how strong I am.
LUXIO: I mean... I guess so. I'm certainly not staying here.

The lion slunk off to gather the supplies. Flareon sat statue-still, eyes trained on Vaporeon. She shuddered. As Luxio packed, she gestured to it.

VAPOREON: Yo. Flamebutt. I fucking got something for you.
FLAREON: I've given you your one free strike.
FLAREON: The next one has consequences.
VAPOREON: Over here by the campfire, before I consider putting it out with your face.

It walked over disdainfully. Her voice trembled, though she kept it as firm as she could. She did have the type advantage, but the thought of its fire terrified her.

VAPOREON: Something is horribly wrong here, and you're the prime suspect.
VAPOREON: I don't remember what's going on. I don't remember who I am.
VAPOREON: I don't give a fuck who you are or were, and acting so high and mighty is pissing me off.

Vaporeon shot a burst of water at the fire, then blew the steam in its face. Flareon sputtered in anger as Luxio walked up. She gave it a hateful grin, and the two left.

FLAREON: Hmph.
FLAREON: I'll be seeing you.

 

[val-triplicate]

Vaporeon and Luxio walked silently through the forest. She stayed close to him, following his lead. Every few seconds she scanned around with a look of subtle panic. No one was following them, at least not that she could detect.

VAPOREON: You hurt?
LUXIO: No, just... shaken.
VAPOREON: Hmph.
LUXIO: You said you don't remember anything, right?
LUXIO: I could, um, try to fill you in if you want.
LUXIO: It did seem like there were... important things you were guessing about.
VAPOREON: Guessing's a stretch. I had nothing.
LUXIO: Let's start simple, then. Do you remember what a dungeon is?
LUXIO: I feel like that's the most important bit, here.
VAPOREON: Kind of. Lots of Pokemon live there and kick your ass if you enter.
LUXIO: I mean... that's good enough for now.
LUXIO: Do you remember why trying to kill a Pokemon you're fighting is not something you ever, ever do?
VAPOREON: I was just trying to get Flareon to crack. I'm not a murderer.
VAPOREON: ...I hope he'll be okay. I doubt it'll bother looking after him.
LUXIO: Probably not, but I really don't know it at all. It showed up last night.
LUXIO: Speaking of... the Dawn Stone wasn't there.
LUXIO: You're sure you didn't take it? The Escape Orb was gone, too.

They found a few items as they walked, and Vaporeon ordered Luxio to carry them all. She told herself this was to get good use of the 'teammate' she'd conscripted. In truth, she could barely stand as it was.

VAPOREON: If there was an Escape Orb, I would have used it.
VAPOREON: I don't like fighting kids for sport.
VAPOREON: And why would a Dawn Stone matter? I'm not a Kirlia.
LUXIO: Okay, well, I'll just assume this is news to you then.
LUXIO: That Dawn Stone is the anchor for this dungeon.
LUXIO: Without it there, there's no shifts for a while. So no new items or food.
LUXIO: If you're not in the mood to fight anyone, don't let them know it's gone.

He lead her down a few turns, right into a dead-end.

LUXIO: Wait. Didn't we already go this way?
VAPOREON: No, you're just stupid. We need to take that turn to the left.
LUXIO: Thanks. You can lead if you want, I'll watch the rear.
VAPOREON: Pssh. Boys. What are you, three years old or something?
VAPOREON: What are you even doing here?
LUXIO: I- I'm seven, man. I'm not a kid.
LUXIO: I came to this dungeon because we don't get many adventurers.
LUXIO: I think the last time we lost the Dawn Stone was a few weeks ago.
VAPOREON: Minutes ago, now.
LUXIO: Ugh, don't remind me...
VAPOREON: Heh. SECONDS AGO!
LUXIO: Augh, alright, alright!
LUXIO: We did a bad job guarding it, and you somehow got past us too.
LUXIO: Probably that damn Flareon fucked us over on both counts.
VAPOREON: Heh. Well, now you know not to trust evolutions of Eevee.
VAPOREON: We're all cunts.

Vaporeon bit her lip as she thought. Something was going on, but she had nothing to go off of. Were there other Eeveelutions involved? She had no idea. He didn't need to know that, though. She was certainly not admitting how scared she was.

LUXIO: Hah. You can trust them if they've threatened you into following, though.
VAPOREON: Careful, kitty. Wanna get reminded what the trees taste like?

The two Pokemon examined each others' expressions. Vaporeon bristled with wound-up tension, ready to snap at the next provocation. Luxio seemed no less tense. Every now and then, he glanced in every direction, as if weighing his options.

LUXIO: Can't say I'm keen to...
LUXIO: Where are you even going to go anyway, besides out?
LUXIO: What's your next brilliant plan?
VAPOREON: Leave and hole up as far away from Flare-dick as possible.
VAPOREON: With luck, never be seen by anyone again.
VAPOREON: What about you, lightning boy?
LUXIO: I just want to stay out of trouble, man...
LUXIO: Maybe I'll go to the surface? Work as a battery for some rich dickhead?
LUXIO: ...Ugh. No, I can't.
LUXIO: I'm just not cut out for that life, even if the dungeons aren't much better.
LUXIO: Maybe adventurers would be less aggressive in one with a boss...
VAPOREON: Oh yeah? Not sure that's gonna save you. You look kind of pathetic.

Luxio stared at her closer. He hadn't noticed until now, but Vaporeon was... not looking good. Her good legs trembled with exhaustion. Her darting eyes seemed to be beginning to lose focus, though she forcibly refocused them every few seconds.

LUXIO: Um. You okay, yourself? You look like you're about to pass out.

She collapsed to the floor. Luxio sat down a comfortable distance beside her.

VAPOREON: Fucking fuck mother fucking FUCK SHIT CUNT! AUGH!
LUXIO: Hey, hey, easy there. I'm here for ya.

Vaporeon didn't stay down for long. She kept walking, taking very slight breaks every time she collapsed. She'd put every single bit of energy she had into the fight, and it was taking its toll on her. She refused to let it beat her.

LUXIO: You should rest. Don't want to end up in a fight you can't win, do you?
VAPOREON: Talk down to me again…
VAPOREON: And I'll find that Dawn Stone...
VAPOREON: And shove it where the sun don't shine.
LUXIO: Fine, but don't blame me…

A few more minutes lead the two to a small room occupied by a Scrafty and a Grotle. It didn't seem they'd been noticed yet, but the Pokemon were facing towards them. There was no sneaking around these ones.

VAPOREON: Show me what's in the bag.

Luxio dumped it out on the ground. It was modestly stocked – three Apples, a Pecha Berry, a Cheri Berry, and a Stun Seed.

LUXIO: Sorry. I usually use the good stuff as soon as I get it.
VAPOREON: Whatever. Just follow my lead, and look really fucking scared.
LUXIO: Not gonna be hard...

She smacked him in the head as hard as she could without falling over, and walked up to the pair.

VAPOREON: If you're with Flareon, it's dead.
VAPOREON: Its throat gargled with blood and water as it died.
VAPOREON: Wanna be next?

Luxio had no trouble looking scared, and her steely glare made it even easier.

LUXIO: P-please. Please let us through. She'll kill me.

Scrafty and Grotle looked at each other, confused as hell. Vaporeon laughed as loud as she could. Anger and humiliation coursed through her in waves.

GROTLE: Um, sure, yeah. Go right through?
VAPOREON: Well, THANK you.
VAPOREON: Finally someone in this FUCKING PRISON has MANNERS.

The Scrafty grumbled. She seemed like easy prey, but he wasn't stupid. He could tell the look in her eyes wasn't faked.

SCRAFTY: Sorry our damn home isn't fun enough for you, princess.
VAPOREON: Ooooooh, little tough boy over here.
VAPOREON: Is running your mouth worth your life to you?

Grotle stood a few feet behind her. He stared at Scrafty and shook his head desperately.

SCRAFTY: Make up your damn mind, girl.
SCRAFTY: Do you want to leave, or see what a real dungeon mon can do?
VAPOREON: I could use the backup, if you're such hot shit.

Scrafty scratched his chin, pretending to be on the fence. A rustle of grass erupted from behind her.

LUXIO: Looks like Grotle took the chance to book it.
SCRAFTY: Let's find some adventurer chump, and I'll show you what I can do.
SCRAFTY: You lead, though. I don't know shit about this layout yet.

Vaporeon kept walking. She could keep walking, she had to keep walking. The toll on her body was catching up with her, but she could keep going. She glanced around. Nothing but her companions as far as she could see.

 

[val-triplicate]

Vaporeon woke up against a wall of trees. The room was empty, except for her and a badly beaten Luxio. Both Pokemon were layered with bruises – some old, some new.

VAPOREON: Urgh. That fucking bastard.
VAPOREON: I should have bit his fucking head off.
LUXIO: Heh. You told him you were a murderer.
LUXIO: The fact that he wanted to follow you at all should have been a red flag.

Luxio rested against the wall, trying to turn the pages of his book with his mouth. He pointedly avoided looking at her.

VAPOREON: Why didn't you run?
LUXIO: Why would I need to? He was busy beating you into paste.
LUXIO: Stronger than I expected, sure, but I had the jump on him.
VAPOREON: You should have used it to run the hell away.
VAPOREON: I told you that you can't trust me.
LUXIO: HAH! Don't recall saying that I do.
VAPOREON: So you're just here to kick me while I'm down?
LUXIO: Nah. Just felt wrong leaving you to him.
LUXIO: He didn't stop when you fainted.
LUXIO: He wasn't gonna until you died.

This gave Vaporeon pause. She was finding it increasingly hard to care what happened to her, but... she'd almost just died. Everything gone, just like that, because she'd let her guard down for a moment.

It wouldn't happen again.

VAPOREON: Hmph. My hero.
LUXIO: Yeah, well, I'm not fighting your battles again.
LUXIO: Next fight you pick, it's your ass on the line.
VAPOREON: Attaboy.
LUXIO: My chances with you are still better than my chances alone, anyway.
LUXIO: I'll carry your bags, if you keep your crazy pointed at the enemies.
LUXIO: Get more rest if you need it. I can't afford a room on the static floor.

Vaporeon stood up again. She wasn't quite healed, but she could walk just fine.

...

Well, she could walk.

LUXIO: You look like you might disintegrate, but I know better than to argue.
LUXIO: Lead the way or take a nap, your choice.
VAPOREON: I already napped. Let's go.

Vaporeon led onward again, keeping an eye out for Scrafty. Pokemon were getting more common, but Luxio managed to find a way around the first few.

VAPOREON: Ugh. I guess most adventurers wipe out within the first few floors.
LUXIO: Yeah. You find the worst Pokemon by the entrance and the static floors.
VAPOREON: Well, here – found an Oran.
LUXIO: Don't you need it?
VAPOREON: I wanna be even. I'm not hungry, anyway.

The other Pokemon mostly kept to themselves when not approached, but a lone Arbok stood in a passage that couldn't be routed around.

VAPOREON: Move, asshole.
VAPOREON: I'm here to kill the little shit that robbed me.

It moved aside, its forked tongue darting out of its serpentine smile.

ARBOK: Sssure, sssure.

Something in its eyes unnerved her, but she was far past caring at this point. She was right – the moment her eyes were turned, it struck. It hurt like hell. It was poisonous as hell, too.

VAPOREON: Mmffh... ambush predator, like I thought.
VAPOREON: Hey, Luxio! Now's your chance to run on ahead!
VAPOREON: FUCKING GO! I can take this guy no problem!

Luxio froze for just a moment, then bolted. No surprise there, either.

ARBOK: What a ssstupid kitty. He wasss ssseriousssly consssidering it.

Arbok lashed lazily at Vaporeon with its hefty tail. She turned to the snake, unconsciousness slowly grasping for her. Not just yet, though. There was one more thing to do.

VAPOREON: Heyyyy... wanna do me a solid?

Poisoned while wrapped in a snake's coil was already a hard position to bargain from. Having no belongings at all made it impossible, but as long as it didn't know that...

VAPOREON: Luxie and I grabbed the Dawn Stone already.
VAPOREON: If you- ngh. Catch the Scrafty that attacked me, and you can have it.
ARBOK: An interesssting offer, to be sssure.
ARBOK: It would be sssacrilegiousss if I took it myssself, but if you already did?
ARBOK: I sssuppossse I will sssee what I can do.

---

Vaporeon awoke at the dungeon's entrance. Her body and mind were still drowning in exhaustion. Her headache had only gotten worse, and even the night sky was too bright for comfort. As she looked up from her dazed awakening, Vaporeon froze.

A familiar Scrafty was waiting to meet her. He slammed his fists against the coils of a proud-looking Arbok, but his mouth was held shut by its tail. Next to them, a Luxio laid on his back and looked up at the stars. His face was locked in a scowl.

ARBOK: Everyone isss ssso gullible today.
ARBOK: I told him you were tracking him down, and he fell for the sssame trick!
ARBOK: It worksss every time.
LUXIO: Mmn.
VAPOREON: Mmngh... what's happening?
ARBOK: I got your Ssscrafty, and loverboy wantsss to sssay he'sss sssorry for being a pusssssy.
LUXIO: Fuck you. I just wanted to see if she made it out.
VAPOREON: Put him to sleep, please, and I'll... deal with him.
ARBOK: Asss you wisssh~

The snake hissed and sank its fangs into Scrafty. He screeched in pain, writhing harder and harder before falling limp. Arbok dumped him on the ground in front of her unceremoniously.

VAPOREON: You two... you don't want to see this.
VAPOREON: Look away, talk among yourselves, whatever.

Vaporeon dragged Scrafty behind some bushes, out of sight of the others and the nearby road. He just laid there. Helpless, just like she had been. What a fucking idiot she was to trust like that. Strength in numbers, she'd assumed. No. Strength was in strength alone, in self-reliance and keeping others where you can see them.

She wrenched open his mouth. His limp body disgusted her. If he wasn't strong enough to resist, he deserved this. Her face twitched as she fired Ice Beam after Ice Beam into his. His body was frozen entirely solid by the time she was done. Was he still alive? No need to guess. Vaporeon shattered the icy Pokemon with her good front paw. She crunched the gorey ice until it was just a mess, and washed the slushy blood away with water.

Vaporeon stumbled back to her companions, too exhausted to clean the gore off herself first. Luxio looked at her, frightened beyond belief. Arbok looked on smugly. She slumped into a heap.

LUXIO: I'm- I'm going to take off if that's okay?
VAPOREON: I told you, boy. You can't trust anyone.

Luxio backed up slowly. In one swift motion, he turned and ran for his life. Arbok watched over her with a disturbing grin, making no moves towards her. She felt disgusted with herself.

VAPOREON: You look happy.
ARBOK: I wasss wondering what you were planning with him. I've never ssseen anything like that.
ARBOK: It'sss not my ssstyle, persssonally, but I do ressspect you for it.
VAPOREON: Don't get any ideas. I'm special.
ARBOK: Oh, I can tell that for sssure. I've been around the block.
ARBOK: A cute little Vaporeon'sss Ice Beam? That ssshould not be asss ssstrong asss it isss on you.
VAPOREON: It shouldn't be so exhausting to use, either.
ARBOK: Loverboy would sssay you ssshould pace yourssself.
ARBOK: Me? I think it'sss funny to watch.

Vaporeon glared at it at the mention of Luxio. It froze, dropping its grin.

ARBOK: My apologiesss. I like to have fun, but I certainly don't mean to anger you.
VAPOREON: I bet you fucking don't.
ARBOK: I hold no illusssionsss about why I beat you.
ARBOK: You were weak and tired, and you let your guard down for jussst a moment.
ARBOK: You could sssurely kill me now, if you ssso desssired.
VAPOREON: Half wanted you to just eat me and end my misery.
ARBOK: Worrisssome.
VAPOREON: I woke up at the end of that dungeon with no memory and no leg.
VAPOREON: There was a smug asshole Flareon who's probably my sibling or spouse or something.
VAPOREON: It obviously knew more than it let on.
VAPOREON: I took that kid hostage to carry my shit, but he was nice to me. Now he's gone.
ARBOK: I'm sssure you could win him back sssomeday, if you meet again.
ARBOK: He ssseemed like the sssimple type. I don't mean that asss an insssult, mind you.
ARBOK: Ssstill, what a worrying ssstory.
ARBOK: Perhapsss sssome time in the townsss would be a better ssstart than the dungeonsss?
ARBOK: Forgive me if my inssspiring advice ssskillsss are russsty. I mossstly jussst take what I want.
VAPOREON: Hmf. I assume you'll follow me around too?
ARBOK: You ssstill owe me for catching the Ssscrafty, unlesssss you want to go back on that.
ARBOK: I won't pursssue you if you do. I'm not ssstupid.
VAPOREON: Oh. Yeah, I was lying. The Dawn Stone was gone when I got there.
VAPOREON: You can still follow. I'm sure I'll tear a path of blood through some other dungeon.
VAPOREON: Maybe you can grab some loot as we go.
ARBOK: Better than sssticking around here.
ARBOK: You can trussst me, though you ssshouldn't, and I'm sssure you won't.
VAPOREON: I don't. I appreciate you not asking me to.

It flicked its tail about, and the two set off.

ARBOK: Like I sssaid, I'm not ssstupid. I'll follow asss long asss it'sss worth it to.
VAPOREON: Then let's see how long that lasts.

 

[val-triplicate]

Art by Cactus-Genome!
​

---

INTERMISSION ONE

A FORGOTTEN STREAM OF THOUGHT

FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ???????, TO ???????​

---

I sit in my home. Waiting. Watching.

You enter without a word.

You have every right to, you seem to think.

Not a thought given to what happened last time.

Not a thought given to every time before.


I greet you.

There's no life behind my eyes.

There's no meaning to my words.

You don't notice.

You don't need there to be any.


You ask how I am. I don't answer.

I ask how you are. You just laugh.

About as good as usual, then.

This is the best we get anymore.


Emboldened, I ask you to leave. You ignore me.

You've got an offer for me, you say.

You've seen what I want and you can make it happen.


Fool that I am, I listen.​

 

[val-triplicate]

Arbok led Vaporeon in the direction of a nearby town to rest, restock, and plan their next move.

ARBOK: It'sss not the nicessst town, but it'sss the closssessst.
VAPOREON: Fuck nice. I don't deserve it.

Her mind swirled with rage and self-hatred every time she tried to think. Eventually, she stopped trying. She just followed along, letting Arbok make the decisions. She still hadn't bothered cleaning the blood off of her.

ARBOK: I won't pessster you unlesssss you want to talk, but it'sss a long walk.
ARBOK: We ssshould have enough food to get there jussst fine.
VAPOREON: Alright. We can camp out if night falls.
VAPOREON: Give me some poison when we do. I don't want to think anymore.
ARBOK: Again, worrisssome, but sssure.

Arbok led her in silence for the next few hours. It was already early morning when they arrived. Perhaps fifty run-down buildings in total, the town had the smell of quiet sadness.

ARBOK: We're here. Ssshall I give you the tour?
VAPOREON: Bar first. Now.
VAPOREON: That Luxio ran off with my stuff, but I don't give a shit about food right now.

She stumbled down the roads, looking even worse than the town did. She wondered if anyone would question the speckled black marks all over her front half.

The bar was identifiable only by a large sign on top. It was clearly drawn by someone who had been partaking already.

BOOZE!​

Arbok held the door open behind it with its tail, and Vaporeon stormed through.

ARBOK: I have a little coin on me, but don't expect sssecondsss.
VAPOREON: I don't need charity from you. Spend that on yourself.

She walked up to the counter and slammed her face onto it. A stern-looking Thwackey ambled over to her and set a mug down mid-wash.

THWACKEY: Coin or tab?
VAPOREON: How many ice cubes would it take to pay for a drink?
VAPOREON: I could probably make like a hundred before I get tired.
THWACKEY: Coin or tab, kid. If all you have is ice, clear off.
VAPOREON: Figures. I could mop or something, too.
THWACKEY: I can too. Good luck finding janitor work here.
THWACKEY: The ice ain't a bad idea, though.
THWACKEY: I don't need any, but the other patrons might.
THWACKEY: All our Ice-types have bigger shit to be doing.
VAPOREON: Some big ice sculpture contest?
THWACKEY: Keeping our food fresh, kid.
THWACKEY: This ain't the dungeons. We don't get room service.
VAPOREON: Fine. I'll go scrounge for tips or whatever.

The bar itself was empty besides the three, but a few tables did have other Pokemon drunkenly chatting. Vaporeon snuck up to one of them.

HELIOLISK: Tellin' ya, something's happened!
HELIOLISK: I've been to two dungeons where the boss was out.
HELIOLISK: They said it's been weeks!
VIGOROTH: Heheh, sure. You're just pissed you didn't ask until the end, I bet.
HELIOLISK: No, I- oh! Sorry, ma'am, I didn't see you there.
HELIOLISK: Anything we can help you with?
VIGOROTH: Out of your league lemonboy, try someone else! Haw ha ha!
VAPOREON: Well, I'm offering ice cubes for money.
VAPOREON: I got a really really juicy piece of gossip too, though.
HELIOLISK: Shoot, it's been a month since I've had a cold drink.
HELIOLISK: How much are you chargin' for – guys, how many rounds are we feeling left?
VIGOROTH: Two.
DRIZZILE: Seven...
HELIOLISK: Not a chance, Dee. You'll fucking die.
VAPOREON: One per cube. I'm not a charity.

She formed full ice cubes and put them in the drinks, three per glass. Frost slowly crept up the sides.

VAPOREON: Speaking of death, my rumor's really, really good. Five coins.
HELIOLISK: Sounds fair to me. Lay it on us.
VAPOREON: So... I was trying to find some stuff I could sell in a dungeon, right?
VAPOREON: And this terrifying Pokemon walked by. Couldn't see who.
VAPOREON: It was dark, but I knew something was up, so I followed it.
VAPOREON: It was dragging a Scrafty behind it.
VAPOREON: I hid in a bush, and the deranged monster froze him to death.
VAPOREON: Then it crushed up the frozen body until nothing but blood was left.

Drizzile looked at the Vaporeon with an expression that bordered on curiosity, but was still firmly in the realm of depression.

HELIOLISK: Spooky stuff!
HELIOLISK: I don't buy it, but it's fun to have a story now and again.
HELIOLISK: Thanks for the ice though. You staying in town for long?
VIGOROTH: HAW! You're pathetic!
HELIOLISK: For fuck's sake, I just like cold drinks!

Vaporeon's tail wagged in relief. That should throw them off the trail, at least until someone actually found the body.

VAPOREON: Don't know. I'll have to go once the work dries up.
VAPOREON: My friend Flareon might visit though. Tell it I'd like to see it if so.
HELIOLISK: Best of luck – work goes quick here.
HELIOLISK: I'll let your friend know to find ya.

Vaporeon took all the money and held it in her mouth before stuffing it into Arbok's purse. It seemed a touch surprised.

VAPOREON: I got some money for supplies. Let's go.
ARBOK: You got it. Ssshop ssshould be nearby.

The snake slithered out of the bar, as the monkey manning it grumbled about window-shoppers.

VAPOREON: I'll just follow you. Less weird looks that way.
ARBOK: Sssmall town meansss weird looksss for visssitorsss no matter what.
ARBOK: The blood isssn't helping, either.
VAPOREON: It's a skin condition. I'd thank you not to stare.

Vaporeon used the time to think to herself. Would Flareon even show up? What the fuck was up with the Dawn Stone? Why was she here, and what did she have to do?

ARBOK: Here'sss one. Ssstarmie'sss Ssstuff Sssellin'.
ARBOK: What a ssstupid name.
VAPOREON: Your accent does it no favors…
ARBOK: Hmph. Rude.

Trinkets and knick-knacks covered every wall of Starmie's store, but the counter it stood behind was filled with more practical items. A gratingly cheerful voice rang out inside Vaporeon's head.

(STARMIE: Greetings! How may I help you?)
VAPOREON: Ow... Uh, I'm here to get some food and an Escape Orb.
(STARMIE: You betcha!)
(STARMIE: Apples are three coins, and Escape Orbs are one hundred!)
VAPOREON: Wow. Never mind the orb, then...
(STARMIE: The treasures on the wall are tagged with prices!)
(STARMIE: I just know you'll find something you like, so let me know if you have questions!)

Vaporeon looked over the shelves, enraptured by the variety of junk on display. It was definitely all useless to her. Everything that wasn't clearly fake was far outside her very modest budget.

VAPOREON: I figure you know more than most... do they make, uh, fake legs?
(STARMIE: Hm... Probably! You'll want to go to Basin City for that, though!)
(STARMIE: Nothing so specialized and expensive in our little town!)
VAPOREON: Gotcha. Thanks.

She waddled up to the counter and stared into Starmie's jewel. It began to sparkle in various colors as it noticed her gaze. Vaporeon's eyes narrowed, and she wondered if it was trying to read her mind.

(VAPOREON: Four Apples, please.)

It simply continued to sparkle. Reasonably sure her thoughts weren't being read, she let them roam free.

It would be so easy. So fucking easy to crush this little fuck's jewel for gouging her. But no, this was a civilized place. There was no fucking way she'd get away with another murder. Even if imagining that jewel cracked to pieces made her giggle out loud.

VAPOREON: Fun trick. Four Apples, please.
(STARMIE: You got it! Twelve coins, please!)
VAPOREON: Arbok, the money?
ARBOK: Any chance it could ussse that trick to grab it?
ARBOK: We'll be here for hoursss if I have to ussse my fangsss.

Starmie's gem glittered with joy. Each one floated to its register separately, so it had no way to cheat them – but plenty of time to show off.

Vaporeon shoved the Apples into Arbok's pack, and a coin between its scales in frustration. Arbok doubled over in pain. Starmie stood silent and motionless, the glittering stopped.

ARBOK: N-no, it'sss fine, I promissse.
ARBOK: Ssshe'sss jussst going through a lot right now.
ARBOK: ...
ARBOK: Yesss, I underssstand.
ARBOK: Everything'sss fine.
ARBOK: ...
ARBOK: That would be... appreciated. Thank you, sssir.

The snake held its breath as the starfish psychically removed the coin. Vaporeon walked out and stamped at the ground, instability turning to a full breakdown.

VAPOREON: Fuck fuck fuck!!! Fucking!!! Aaaargh!!!

A few passersby looked oddly at the stained and stomping Vaporeon, but none approached. Arbok emerged from the store, visibly sore.

ARBOK: That fucking hurt, Vaporeon.

She raised her head and let out a gigantic beam of blinding power into the sky.

VAPOREON: Can you even believe that guy?
ARBOK: Y-yeah, for sssure...
VAPOREON: Ugh... whatever. Did we need anything else from this shithole?
ARBOK: We won't be able to make it to Basssin City on four Applesss, but that'sss all.
VAPOREON: I don't need to eat. That's all for you.
ARBOK: You're sssure? That sssoundsss... odd.

It was odd, of course, because it was a blatant lie. She'd been starving since she first woke up. Blasting off powerful attacks hadn't helped, either. No more showing weakness, though. She scowled at the staring passersby.

ARBOK: Well, if you sssay ssso.
ARBOK: Thisss ssshould keep usss the trip, then.
VAPOREON: Then let's go. The sooner we're out of here, the better.

 

[val-triplicate]

Arbok led her meekly to the exit of the town. The townsfolk gave the two a wide berth, and Vaporeon kept a focused eye out for any other Eeveelutions. Sitting calmly next to the town's dilapidated sign, in fact, was a Jolteon.

JOLTEON: Hey, Vaporeon.
JOLTEON: I'm just here to chat, if that's okay with you.

She walked up close, but he backed away.

JOLTEON: Easy now. I'm not trying to yank you around, I promise.
JOLTEON: That's Flareon's damage, I warned it not to.
VAPOREON: And someone died for it.
JOLTEON: Its cryptic shtick got to you that bad? Shit.
VAPOREON: You saw my outburst in town?
JOLTEON: Yeah... same as everyone three towns over.
JOLTEON: I thought I'd pop over and check in with you.
JOLTEON: Make sure we got off on the right foot.

Vaporeon's expression soured even more, and she glanced at Jolteon's body. Something about it seemed a little odd, but he still had all of his paws.

JOLTEON: Fuck... sorry, I forgot about that bit. Not a pun, I swear.
JOLTEON: Listen, I'm not here to antagonize you, I promise.

She curled up on the ground, keeping her distance. Jolteon sat back down warily.

VAPOREON: I know.
JOLTEON: ...I wish I had more for you here. Not a lot I'm allowed to say.
JOLTEON: Shouldn't even say that much, but you'll find that out soon enough.
VAPOREON: I thought you said cryptic shit was Flareon's deal.
JOLTEON: Cryptic shit is gonna have to be everyone's deal here.
JOLTEON: Flareon's deal is relishing in it.
JOLTEON: Does it know how badly it rattled you? It'll probably get worse if so.

Vaporeon stood up and blasted a huge jet of water at the horizon. Far away, a tree was split in half by the attack. Jolteon watched, looking a little sad.

VAPOREON: I tried to get it back, and I got nothing done but hurting children.
VAPOREON: Just... URGH! WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON?!
JOLTEON: ...
JOLTEON: I'd be seeking out Mesprit, if I were you.
JOLTEON: I don't think asking you to calm down is going to go well, after all.
JOLTEON: Just call for me if you need me, okay?
JOLTEON: I'm allowed to talk to you if I don't give anything away.
JOLTEON: I think it'll be better for everyone if you learn to cope with this.

Vaporeon reached out a paw as he turned to leave. He flinched.

VAPOREON: ...wait, please...
VAPOREON: Why... why won't you touch me? Would something bad happen?

Jolteon stood for a moment, then shook his head. He gave her a deeply sad smile, and put a paw on her shoulder.

JOLTEON: No, just didn't want to catch a Hydro Pump is all.
JOLTEON: See? You're fine, just scared. No big curse or anything.
VAPOREON: But...

She flinched at his touch, but relented. She began to quietly cry.

VAPOREON: Hug?
JOLTEON: Always.

Jolteon stood to her left, leaning into her side. She leaned back into him.

VAPOREON: Water... Fire... and Electric...

He looked at her, an expression of hope in his eyes.

JOLTEON: What about them?
VAPOREON: Are we... the only ones?
VAPOREON: Or will I meet an Espeon in the next town spouting more cryptic shit?

Jolteon paused, running a few things through his head.

JOLTEON: I can't answer that. I'm sorry.
VAPOREON: Am I... actually a Vaporeon?

He grinned.

JOLTEON: Can't answer that one, either.
JOLTEON: You'll figure it all out by yourself, I'm sure.
JOLTEON: You've got a sharp mind. I can tell.
JOLTEON: I'll be around if you need me, but I should go.
JOLTEON: It won't be a good look if I field a whole Q&A.
JOLTEON: Good luck... Vaporeon.

As Jolteon started to walk away, Vaporeon charged from behind and bit his rear. He jumped, startled, and a burst of harmless electricity blinded her. By the time she could see again, he was gone.

 

[val-triplicate]

Vaporeon burst out laughing. It was genuine, at first, then twisted into a pained, angry laughter. She couldn't stop. Arbok watched her awkwardly. Its eyes contained a touch of concern, buried as always under its mix of curiosity and terror. Once Vaporeon finally stopped, she climbed roughly onto Arbok's back. She was surprisingly heavy.

VAPOREON: I... I'm really tired...

Arbok groaned involuntarily, but tried its best to carry her. It didn't work.

ARBOK: We have enough money for a room, if you want to sssleep and recover.
ARBOK: We could alssso camp out if you can walk for twenty minutesss, but I don't recommend sssleeping any clossser.
VAPOREON: Just drag me for a few miles...
VAPOREON: You know I can take it...
ARBOK: ...
ARBOK: Yesss, ma'am.

It coiled its tail around her, dragging her roughly across the grass next to the road. The pain was almost unbearable.

ARBOK: I would lift you up if I could, but you're heavy enough asss isss.
ARBOK: Bessst I can do if it hurtsss isss sssleeping or numbing venom.
VAPOREON: Nah, don't bother. It hurts less than you'd think.

It was slow going. The pain made it impossible to tell how long it took, but it couldn't have been less than ten minutes just to get out of the gates. Once they were out of the boundaries of town, Vaporeon spoke up.

VAPOREON: Let's- Let's find some water.
ARBOK: I don't know long that would take. I've only been thisss way once.
ARBOK: Unlesssss you want to be dragged all day, I sssuggessst we sssleep here.
ARBOK: I could go myssself, but I'd have to leave you behind.

She dragged herself to her feet and picked a direction. Arbok looked confused, but nodded.

VAPOREON: North, and to the west.
ARBOK: Northwessst it isss, then. Lead the way.

Vaporeon led the snake to a river that twisted and turned. She approached it and began to drink.

ARBOK: Got your memoriesss back or sssomething?
VAPOREON: I think I saw it when we were on that hill.

With her face in the dirt the whole time? Arbok wasn't buying it.

ARBOK: You've got good visssion then.
VAPOREON: No, I can barely see shit most of the time.
VAPOREON: My eyes are super blurry.

This was actually true, though she didn't know for sure why. An issue with her eyesight, maybe, or perhaps just exhaustion and starvation.

ARBOK: ...mussst have been even luckier than I thought, then.
ARBOK: Time to sssleep?

Arbok pulled out an Apple and ate it, looking a bit rejuvenated. She stared at the apple core left behind. The snake watched her carefully.

ARBOK: ...
ARBOK: ...you're allowed to admit weaknesssss, you know.
ARBOK: You might be the ssstrongessst Pokemon I've ever met.
ARBOK: If you need to eat, that'sss not a crime.

She turned away sharply.

VAPOREON: No. It's yours. I eat any of it, you'll just go hungry.

Its eyes softened, and it bit another Apple out of its purse.

ARBOK: I'll be fine, I promissse.
ARBOK: I can forage in the dungeonsss for more asss we travel.
ARBOK: You can wait outssside. No one will bother you out here.
VAPOREON: ...
VAPOREON: ...thank you.

She cried and ate voraciously. It was the first thing she'd ever eaten, as far as she could tell. Arbok coiled up a few feet away.

ARBOK: You can have another if you want. I'll get sssome more in the morning.

Vaporeon jumped into the river with a loud splash. She laid in the river for a bit, and meditated as her body melted into it. She ate a second Apple when she came back, cherishing the nutrition in her body.

Arbok was fast asleep, hissing quietly. Its tail flicked as it dreamed. Vaporeon sighed and watched it sleep. Scenarios played out in her head – it betraying her, and vice versa. Before she even realized it, the sun had risen.

ARBOK: Sssss... mnn. Morning, Vaporeon.

She stood still, her eyes locked on it unblinking.

VAPOREON: ...huh?
ARBOK: Good morning? Isss everything okay?
VAPOREON: Oh fuck, I forgot to sleep!
ARBOK: How do you forget to sssleep?
VAPOREON: I just looked at you and sort of... thought about you.
ARBOK: I sssee. Good thoughtsss, I hope.

She gave its cheek a kiss.

VAPOREON: Nope. All horrible.
ARBOK: Trying to underssstand you isss like dancing with a Ssspinda, Vaporeon.
ARBOK: Unlesssss you want to ssshare, the dungeon isss an hour or ssso away.
ARBOK: Conversssation isss optional asss alwaysss.

It started slithering back to the path. This time, she walked alongside it herself.

VAPOREON: Hmm... You saw how... normal Jolteon was, right?
ARBOK: I don't buy 'normal' for a sssecond, but he ssseemed nice enough.
VAPOREON: I mean in comparison to how... unstable and violent I am.
ARBOK: Hm... perhapsss.
ARBOK: Perhapsss you sssimply don't know him well enough to sssee how fucked up he isss.
VAPOREON: Do you think I was meant to be like him but... something went badly wrong?

She looked to her missing leg.

ARBOK: Maybe? I don't sssee what the point of sssecrecy would be if that were the cassse.
ARBOK: You sssaid that Flareon wasss pretty bad too, yesss?
ARBOK: It sssoundsss like there isss sssomething between the three of you, at leassst.
VAPOREON: If it's just the three of us, I have a suspicion.
VAPOREON: If there's more, I'm back to square one.
VAPOREON: What I really want to know is WHY.
ARBOK: Ah, that'sss the bigger quessstion, isssn't it?
ARBOK: I'm afraid I don't even know what your theory isss, ssso I haven't the foggiessst.
VAPOREON: I'm not telling you.
VAPOREON: Also, I'm coming with you into the dungeon.
ARBOK: Of courssse.
VAPOREON: If... If I go insane again, bite to kill.
ARBOK: ...
VAPOREON: You can take the glory for felling a murderer...

It looked at her like she was crazy.

ARBOK: I think they would jussst arressst me if I sssaid I'd killed sssomeone.
ARBOK: You do know they don't execute you for that, right?

She didn't respond. They walked in silence for the rest of the hour.

ARBOK: Here we are... Magnet Passsss.
ARBOK: You sssure you're up for thisss?
ARBOK: It might take me a few triesss, but I can gather what we need.
VAPOREON: I can take on anything.
ARBOK: Of courssse, I don't doubt it.
ARBOK: Jussst thought you might want to... perhapsss ssstay back thisss time.
VAPOREON: No. I'm going.
VAPOREON: I'll... try to stay normal.

 

[val-triplicate]

Arbok led the two inside. The dungeon was a cave, with faded red rock and an unmistakable energy to the air. The ceilings were oddly high for a cave, at a constant height even in the narrow corridors.

VAPOREON: Pretty normal. Alright, you lead, and I'll blast anything I see.

Arbok led them forward, and flicked its tail as an Electrode rolled their way. She blasted her out of the room with a half-power Hydro Pump. Even that was enough to do utterly insane damage. The ball flew backwards into the wall, knocked out on impact.

ARBOK: Ssscary...
VAPOREON: You've seen me trying. Right now, I'm not.
ARBOK: I appreciate the ressstraint. You're not invincible when you're worn out.

They continued forward, looking through the nooks and crannies for items. Arbok noticed a few Iron Thorns, which it took, but otherwise found little of use. Pokemon jumped out here and there, but nothing Vaporeon couldn't handle just yet.

VAPOREON: We might have to go deeper. To where the weak can't manage.
ARBOK: Good thinking. Thisss one isss longer, and there'sss only one ssstatic floor before the end.
ARBOK: I've been here once, but too many Ground-typesss run it.
VAPOREON: Heh. If I'm able to hold back like this, I can manage for you.
VAPOREON: Maybe even fight a boss at the end.
ARBOK: Hah, in thisss rinky-dink dungeon? Not a chance.
ARBOK: I think the anchor here isss an Insssomnissscope or sssomething.

Arbok rounded the next corner, two Pokemon showing up this time. A Zebstrika crackled with furious electricity, and a Galvantula hung from a sparking web.

Vaporeon blasted Ice Beams at them, trying desperately not to go too far. Both dodged with ease, but the attacks exploded where they hit. The ice ripped through the web Galvantula was crawling away on. It fell, flailing its legs, and landed with a thump.

Arbok slithered over to take advantage of the opportunity, while Zebstrika rushed Vaporeon with a quick Wild Charge. She stood her ground and took it. The electricity really fucking hurt, but she'd felt worse. She headbutted the horse back with solid force.

VAPOREON: Don't think your type means anything to me!
ZEBSTRIKA: Tough talk, fish stick!

Zebstrika roared with pain, but it was nowhere near downed. It began gathering up electricity for a Thunder. Meanwhile, Arbok was tangled in a tussle with Galvantula. Each had gotten a good few bites in, but neither's venoms had taken effect.

Vaporeon focused her mind and let out a roar. A Hyper Beam charged up in her mouth, threatening to match its Thunder. The Pokemon shook with exertion as they each let their power fly. The bolt shot directly at Vaporeon, shocking her with intense power. Exhausted from the attack, though, Zebstrika was instantly knocked out by Hyper Beam.

Vaporeon stumbled, but managed to shoot a hunk of ice at the spider. Every single nerve in her body screamed at her. It howled in fury as it took the hit. Arbok sank its fangs in again, and it fell limp.

VAPOREON: A-aarrrbok...
ARBOK: Hahh... thessse guysss are above my level, but I'm fine. I've got thisss.
ARBOK: You look terrible, though. Eat thisss.

She shivered, her body locking up in paralysis. It passed her an Oran Berry.

ARBOK: It'sss the one we have, but you need it.

VAPOREON: N-no... I can... I can take it...

ARBOK: Bullssshit. I'm not letting usss get our asssssesss kicked for your pride.

The snake put the berry in front of her and tapped the ground with its tail.

ARBOK: I couldn't take thessse guysss one-on-one.
ARBOK: If you want to go any farther, eat it.

She grumbled and bit into it. It was the most delicious thing she'd ever eaten.

ARBOK: Nothing tassstesss better than an Oran when you're hurt.

She struggled to walk though the paralysis. In time, her body loosened back up, and she felt better than before.

ARBOK: Looksss like you've got your ssstrength back jussst fine.
ARBOK: Are you ready to move on?
VAPOREON: Yeah. Let's hope we just see those ground losers you mentioned...
ARBOK: I don't sssee any point fighting other explorersss, though we could try to jump them for their ssstuff I sssuppossse.
ARBOK: It'sss not polite, but it'sss no crime.
VAPOREON: No, that's... that's too far.
ARBOK: ...sssurprisssing.

She turned away from it and fired a Hyper Beam in frustration. It exhausted her, and the beam was so strong it carved a tunnel to a different room.

ARBOK: F-forgive me. I meant no offenssse.
VAPOREON: No, it's. It's fine.
VAPOREON: I'm just some amnesiac psycho. You're right to be surprised.

Arbok stared at her for a few moments. She ignored it and pushed onwards. The new room didn't seem to have any real entrances, and there were a good few items still to be found. It took about ten minutes to comb through, but they left with two more Apples, an Oran Berry, and a Cheri Berry.

ARBOK: Good find, there. Cheri isss worth itsss weight in gold here.
VAPOREON: Do you think we could sell it?
VAPOREON: I assume there's merchants in the dungeons.
ARBOK: On the ssstatic floor, sssure. It ssshould be coming up sssoon.
ARBOK: The Cheri will be enough for the Applesss we need, and maybe another Oran to be sssafe.

She let it lead, wondering what she would even do with money.

ARBOK: Ssspeaking of, do you want to try for the anchor?
ARBOK: It'll be tough, and I don't know if we have the ssstamina for it.
ARBOK: We won't have to worry about money for a while if we can, though.
VAPOREON: Won't that disable the dungeon?
ARBOK: Sssure, but that'sss jussst how it goesss.
ARBOK: No one likesss the anchor being gone, ssso we fight off intrudersss.
ARBOK: But a sssteady ssstream of intrudersss meansss a free target for any aggresssssion, asss long asss we play by the rulesss.
ARBOK: We like that dynamic. No one ssseriousssly triesss to keep them out.
VAPOREON: ...no. We leave after we're done on the static floor.
VAPOREON: I don't want anyone going without food.

Arbok looked surprised and almost impressed.

ARBOK: An unusssually principled ssstance.
ARBOK: We can take it, it'sss the price we pay for having our free resssourcesss.

Vaporeon thought about how fucking painful starving was. Sure, she could survive not eating for what felt like a month, but anyone weaker would probably be dead. She stared ahead, too focused to watch her back like normal.

ARBOK: It'sss typically only a day or two, and the ssstatic floorsss have backupsss ssso no one actually ssstarvesss.
ARBOK: It jussst sssucksss, you aren't killing anyone by taking them.

The word 'killing' made her twitch. She growled lightly without even realizing it.

ARBOK: You know – well, perhapsss you wouldn't.
ARBOK: Sssome anchorsss are Pokemon, too.
ARBOK: You beat the bosssss, they do you a favor. Ssstandard ssstuff.
VAPOREON: Wait, what?
ARBOK: Sssame deal, while they're resssting, no ssshiftsss happen.
VAPOREON: But when I woke up...
ARBOK: You sssaid you woke up in the dungeon, right?
ARBOK: Were you at the end or sssomething?
VAPOREON: Yup. Smack dab in the middle, right at the very end.
ARBOK: Very odd. But the anchor wasss a Dawn Ssstone, not a Pokemon.
ARBOK: Certainly not a Vaporeon. Even a very ssstrong one would never be an anchor.

Vaporeon scowled at the ground. She tried to remember, to think past her headache, but... nothing. She snapped out of it as Arbok stopped moving. Big paper signs were plastered all across the walls leading to the next room.

NO FIGHTING IN
THE STATIC ZONE!​

 

[val-triplicate]

Sights and sounds bombarded Vaporeon as she stepped through the passage. In all the time she could remember, she hadn't met a quarter of the number of Pokemon who were roaming the room – and that was just what was in her field of vision.

The room itself was only a few times larger than the one she'd woken up in, but the sheer density was terrifying. Small buildings were stacked to the ceiling, fitting together in a dizzying maze. Even the air was crowded with Pokemon and structures.

Vaporeon searched the room in a contained panic. She took note of everywhere she could hide, and anywhere foes might be hiding from her. The answers seemed to be "nowhere" and "everywhere," but adrenaline kept her panic from boiling over just yet.

Arbok tapped her with its tail. She let out a half-suppressed scream.

ARBOK: Yeah... sssorry I forgot to warn you.
ARBOK: Why don't you ssstay here while I get the sssuppliesss?
VAPOREON: No... I have to- I have to at least look around.
VAPOREON: Keep an eye out for any evolutions of Eevee.
ARBOK: Will do. If you want to be sssafe, don't wander passst the sssignsss.
ARBOK: Fighting in the roomsss jussst passst them isss fine, but frowned upon.

She walked on silently without it. A small stall caught her eye. A Kantonian Persian sat smugly on a blanket underneath a large sign.

GOSSIP! :3​

VAPOREON: I got a good one. Want me to go first?
PERSIAN: Sure, darling... just know I rarely accept trades, and no refunds I'm afraid~
PERSIAN: But if the gossip is good enough, who knows~?

Vaporeon's voice dropped to a whisper. The cat watched her with hungry eyes and a lazily wagging tail.

VAPOREON: I know about a killer on the loose.
PERSIAN: Oh-ho? Names, witnesses, and evidence are what I'd like to hear...
PERSIAN: Of course, your story will be worth more if it's true... but that's not a deal-breaker~
VAPOREON: Outside a dungeon south of here, a Scrafty went missing. I know what happened to him.
VAPOREON: He was frozen solid, then brutally crushed. No body left to identify.
VAPOREON: The freezing was amateurish, as if it was done by a Water-type or something.
VAPOREON: There were two witnesses. A Luxio and an Arbok.
PERSIAN: Faaaaascinating~
PERSIAN: You can certainly take your pick, for such a treat~
VAPOREON: I need to know where I can find Mesprit. Failing that, There's a weird Flareon who's been looking for me.
VAPOREON: If you can tell me both... I'll name the killer for you.
PERSIAN: Oh, I think I can do both for you just fine~
PERSIAN: Don't worry about the identity of the killer though, she's not as subtle as she thinks she is~
VAPOREON: Hmf. Tell on me if you like.
PERSIAN: At some point, perhaps, but I won't be selling gossip like that on the front shelf~
PERSIAN: Now, give me a moment to remember the information you requested~

Persian closed their eyes as they spoke. Their tone changed completely, but their grin was no less wide.

PERSIAN: Heavenly Falls.
PERSIAN: Water-type dungeon, thirty floors, mid-level.
PERSIAN: Mesprit as the boss. Will help with emotional problems and offer items that may assist as well.
PERSIAN: Strong psychic attacks, but no status-inflicting moves.
PERSIAN: Fights alone.
VAPOREON: Emotional problems, huh...

Persian opened their eyes, and arrogant amusement entered their voice once again.

PERSIAN: If you have rage unquenchable, she can help you quench it~
PERSIAN: If depression threatens to swallow you whole, she'll arm you to fight back~
PERSIAN: If you can't help but hurt those you love, she'll give you the help you need~

Vaporeon looked away. She felt very insulted, but she still needed them. The cat's grin only widened.

PERSIAN: Not a cold read or accusation, I promise~
PERSIAN: Just the sales pitch I always do for her~
PERSIAN: I've only heard a few reports of the Flareon, but it hasn't been as subtle as it should have been~
PERSIAN: Fire-type attacks far outstripping what the species was thought capable of, when pressed against a wall~
PERSIAN: One has to wonder what secrets a murderer and a flame prodigy might have in common~
PERSIAN: Oh, look at me prattling on~ I imagine you were looking for a location~?
VAPOREON: No. It'll find me.
PERSIAN: I have a feeling you're right about that~
VAPOREON: Half tempted to ask you about myself.
VAPOREON: You surely know about my outbursts in town. You know about my crimes.

Persian laughed for much longer than seemed warranted.

PERSIAN: Ask anyone in this room, and they'll know about your outburst in town~
VAPOREON: Hmf. Talk of the town, huh.
PERSIAN: If you're asking for my guess on what your true secret is...
PERSIAN: That will cost you much, much more than a gossip about a weird dog, or a publicly available dungeon listing~
PERSIAN: And honestly darling, I don't know if that's gossip you can afford~
VAPOREON: Only a guess? I suppose this is only a rumor mill.

They let out a sharp laugh.

PERSIAN: I can only work with what people know, darling~
VAPOREON: One that's served its purpose to me.

Vaporeon stared at them. They laughed even harder.

PERSIAN: Is the murderer going to kill me in front of all these people~?
PERSIAN: In the static zone~? Where any violence you inflict will be returned on you tenfold~?
VAPOREON: The angrier I get, the less I care.
VAPOREON: What life do I have to live anyway? An unstable psychopath, being strung the fuck along by her mysterious siblings?
PERSIAN: Ah, to be the first murder victim in a static zone... it would almost be worth the pain, wouldn't it~?
PERSIAN: Such a tragic, explosive story~
VAPOREON: Heh... I was wrong. You do have use to me.

She took in a deep breath. Persian tensed as a chill ran down their back.

VAPOREON: WHAT?!
VAPOREON: THERE'S A VIOLENT KILLER HERE AND YOU DIDN'T TELL ANYONE?!
VAPOREON: THIS!
VAPOREON: IS!
VAPOREON: NEWS!

She darted away. Persian blinked, stunned for a moment, and began to laugh uproariously.

PERSIAN: Oh~! Oh-ho-ho~!

The entire room lit up with shouting as Vaporeon fled. She managed to get out of the immediate area just before the stampeding started. She ran through the alleyways, just trying to get as far away as possible.

VAPOREON: fuck me fuck me fuck me fuck me why did I do that fuck I'm so stupid

There was nowhere to run to in such a crowded area, but the majority of the traffic was ground-based. It wouldn't be inconspicuous, but climbing up the buildings would keep her from getting trampled.

Vaporeon scrambled up a precarious pile of crates and assorted scaffolding. Everything here was very slapdash, and she had to use her ice breath to freeze some parts before they could topple. She screamed out of sheer stress and kept climbing.

Once the adrenaline wore off, Vaporeon found herself in a cubbyhole that was both safe and fairly hidden. She watched the crowd stumble about. Everyone was in a frenzy, and they were surely tracking her down to kill her. She had to- she didn't know what she had to do, but she had to do something.

Panic overtook her, and Vaporeon used a powerful Blizzard. It contained every bit of power she had left, and the wave of exhaustion that replaced it was almost a relief. Almost.

The shouting intensified, but the now-slick ground shifted the growing stampede into a chaotic maelstrom of fur and talons. Vaporeon watched the calamity. It was funny, to her, to watch everyone finally feel as hopeless and afraid as her.

Vaporeon laughed. She laughed harder and harder, doubling over with exhaustion and mania and hatred. It was so funny. It was so FUCKING funny. What started as an amused chuckle became uproarious laughter, which quickly turned maniacal.

BUNNELBY: Hey, someone's on the storage shelf, I can hear them!
OCTILLERY: Oh? Let me just put on my GODDAMN ICE SKATES THEN!

The shouting continued, and anyone attempting to get to her slipped and fell uselessly. She was completely disabled by laughter. She clutched at herself to try and stop, but to no avail.

The snow and ice melted after about five minutes. The chaos had largely simmered down, and a loud clanking began to approach. Vaporeon panted and wheezed. Everything hurt so much, but it didn't matter. She just wanted it all to be over.

VAPOREON: Hahah... ahahahah... hehehehh... haaahhh....

The metallic noise came closer to her as she sat and laughed. It was more akin to a rough sobbing by this point. She didn't even bother looking up. A sharp claw roughly grabbed her, and she vanished in a flash of light.

 

[val-triplicate]

Art by Cactus-Genome!​

---

INTERMISSION TWO

A FORGOTTEN STREAM OF THOUGHT

FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF ???????, TO ???????
​

---

It's been a long day.

It's been a long year.

I don't remember when I last had a moment to myself.

I mutter that maybe I never have.


I make you a bland offer.

A date, if you want to see it as one.

You say you'd rather sit here and rot.

I tell you I don't care and I wasn't asking.

We're going and you're going to like it.


You do enjoy it, in the end.

Less and less each time, but you do.

It's something to do to survive another evening.

It's a soul to interact with besides your own.

It's a chance to hate me for a few hours, rather than yourself.


We almost come to blows, but we don't. Not this time.

We're given a look of warning, and it proves sufficient.


It's all worth it for the diversion.

Just a moment of peace, if you want to call it that.

Just a moment before we have to go back to our lives.


Nothing can last forever.​

 

[val-triplicate]

Sheriff Skarmory teleported back to her office. The criminal was automatically teleported into the cell beside her. Difficult as they were to get a hold of, the guild's badges were certainly much safer than regular arrests.

The sheriff's office had seen better days, but not by that much. It had a single desk, a few filing cabinets, and a single cell capable of holding about a Rhyperior (by volume, certainly not by durability). There was also a break room in back, where the slacker she reluctantly employed approximated working.

Skarmory tensely approached the rickety cage. Vaporeon paced in it, staring daggers at the sheriff.

SKARMORY: So. Blizzard in the static zone, huh?
VAPOREON: What about it? They were out to get me. I did what I had to.
SKARMORY: Who was out to get you?
SKARMORY: The Hitmonchan who sprained her ankle on that ice?
SKARMORY: The Pidgey who BARELY SURVIVED?
VAPOREON: SHUT UP! I KNOW! I KNOW I FUCKED UP!

Skarmory took a defensive step away. This was nothing she hadn't seen before. Her money was on mental illness, but gang involvement was also known to drive Pokemon to this. The guild psychics would be able to handle the heavy investigating. She just needed enough info to get their notice.

SKARMORY: Calm down. You're not in any danger here. Who was out to get you?
VAPOREON: Don't know. Someone was bound to catch me eventually.
VAPOREON: I knew I was going to pay for my crimes before long. Where am I?
SKARMORY: Crossroads Town, in the sheriff's office. What crimes?
VAPOREON: Before I used Blizzard, I incited a panic.
VAPOREON: Before that... I killed someone. Blasted his body into frost and smashed him.
VAPOREON: Scrafty, I think. Fucking bastard tried to kill me first.
VAPOREON: Now... Now he can't.

The sheriff took a step back, then a few more. She stared into Vaporeon's eyes. Thinking. Judging. Vaporeon went back to pacing, desperate to avoid her stare.

SKARMORY: Goddammit. I guess the Forest Grotto case is closed now.
SKARMORY: Stay there, I'm getting our psychic. We'll give you a block, see if you need mental help, and you can be on your way.
SKARMORY: Do you need any food or water while you wait?
VAPOREON: Nobody can help me. Don't even bother.
SKARMORY: Yeah, well, you don't get to make that choice anymore, do you?

---

Deputy Sheriff Hariyama sat on his couch, listening to the half of the conversation he could hear. In theory, interrogations were supposed to be a confidential, one-on-one ordeal. In practice, nothing his boss said was quiet enough for that.

He stood up slowly and began to gather supplies – some Apples, a type of cereal he was fond of, and a few bottles of water. Skarmory was a good sheriff, in his mind, but she was horribly busy. Things always seemed to go better when he imparted a personal touch.

HARIYAMA: Um, hi. Vaporeon, right?
HARIYAMA: I brought you some food. And water and stuff.
VAPOREON: ...I'm not hungry.
HARIYAMA: Well... you should have some anyway. Please. People usually feel better after they do.
VAPOREON: Hmph. Fine. I guess I'm your property now anyway.

Hariyama pushed the food and water through the cell bars. She didn't seem very hungry, as she'd said, but the pretense shattered the moment she got close to it. Vaporeon tore through the food like she hadn't eaten in weeks.

HARIYAMA: See? It's really easy to underestimate how hungry you are...
VAPOREON: Whatever. What do you want from me? Trying to butter me up?
HARIYAMA: Oh, I don't need anything from you! Just trying to be nice.
VAPOREON: BULLSHIT! If you weren't trying to fuck with me, you wouldn't be talking to me.
HARIYAMA: I- I swear it's not like that.
HARIYAMA: It's just... I've seen a lot of people standing where you're standing, right?
HARIYAMA: A lot of Pokemon accused of a lot of things. Most of them were guilty, but not all of them.
HARIYAMA: But all of them... they were basically all having the worst day of their lives.
VAPOREON: ...
HARIYAMA: I guess I just don't really see any reason to make this harder on you than it has to be.

Vaporeon retreated to the corner of the cell and hid under her small cot. Hariyama sat next to the desk to wait for Skarmory's return. She didn't have to talk any more than she wanted to. He just hoped she would come to understand that not everyone hated her.

---

Guild Psychic Espeon appeared in the center of the Crossroads Town sheriff's office. She scanned the room with sharp eyes. She'd worked with Sheriff Skarmory and Deputy Hariyama often, but the criminal was rarely a repeat. This one seemed less stable than most. Haunted, in a way she'd never quite seen before.

Espeon walked forward slowly and sat in front of the cell. The sheriff shuffled papers at her desk and pretended not to watch. She met the Vaporeon’s eyes, but most of her focus was on herself. It was critically important to keep a neutral expression in these matters. Even if the prisoner thrashed with terror, and the local law enforcement wasn't having much better of a day, the guild had to stay professional.

ESPEON: Greetings, Vaporeon.
VAPOREON: Fuck you. Of course they'd send another one of them.
VAPOREON: Here to take what little you didn't get the first time?
ESPEON: I don't know what you're talking about, but I'm not here to hurt you.

This was a common reaction, though her particular accusations were certainly confusing. Psychic powers were not well understood among the general populace. While Cresselia and Darkrai's strict guardianship over the psychic field was not a secret, most had little reason to ever learn about it.

ESPEON: I doubt you have patience for the deeper mechanics, but I cannot harm your mind out of malice.
ESPEON: I am here to read your memory, first and foremost.
ESPEON: We want to ensure you are truly guilty of what you confessed to.
ESPEON: If you are, I will place a simple block to prevent you from taking another life.
ESPEON: This will not prevent you from defending yourself, but you will be unable to intentionally kill.
ESPEON: Is this acceptable to you?
VAPOREON: I can't stop you anyway. Spare me the fake humility.
ESPEON: Humor me, please. This will be easier on all of us if you don't resist.
VAPOREON: Fine, then. Stick to what you're pretending you're here for, and I won't fight it.
ESPEON: Thank you. I assure you it will be over quickly.

Espeon reached out a psychic link and connected with Vaporeon's mind. Every mind was its own complicated tangle of thoughts and memories, personality and predilections... but something was very clearly wrong about this one.

It wasn't just the amnesia, though this was the first thing Espeon noticed. Not a single memory in Vaporeon's mind was more than two days old. The break was extremely clean – certainly an intentional attack on the poor thing's mind. More subtle, but more startling, was the sheer depth of experience encoded in Vaporeon's personality.

The relationship between memories and personality was a complex one, and one that mattered little outside of psychic abilities and questions of the afterlife. Memories strong enough to influence knee-jerk reactions would find their effects embedded in a Pokemon's sense of self.

These effects were usually difficult to detect, but it was not so for this bizarre Vaporeon. Most seemed to have been scrubbed as intentionally as the memories that should have been present, but one trait stood above all the rest. It was quiet and complicated, with the contours of an opinion that took a lifetime to form. A deep, unshakable fear of fire.

Espeon broke off the mental connection in a cold sweat. She was getting distracted. Something was wrong with this Vaporeon, but that wasn't what she was here for. She just needed to read the prisoner's memories, and apply the block if needed.

...huh.

ESPEON: I'm- I'm sorry, Vaporeon.
ESPEON: Your case is the most unique I've ever seen.
VAPOREON: What the fuck do you mean by that?
SKARMORY: Seconded. Did she do it or not? No offense, but just do your job here.
ESPEON: She did, but I cannot. My powers are nowhere near strong enough to put a block on her.
SKARMORY: WHAT THE FUCK DO YOU MEAN, YOU CAN'T?
SKARMORY: You're a goddamned Espeon! This should be the one thing you CAN do!
ESPEON: I meant what I said! We're going to have to escalate this.
SKARMORY: To fucking who?
ESPEON: To Mesprit. I'll make the arrangements, just keep her here.
SKARMORY: Keep her here? Are you fucking crazy? If she's strong enough to-

Vaporeon charged her ice breath, and both on the other side of the bars flinched. She tilted her head and fired it at the bars themselves. An icy barrier began to form between them.

VAPOREON: Go. I won't let myself hurt anyone until you get back.
ESPEON: ...thank you, Vaporeon.
ESPEON: For what it is worth, I trust you.