Pokémon The Vaporeon Cycle: Now and Forever

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Hi! Welcome to the world of Pokemon! Please don't panic.​

Alright! Assuming you've calmed down (or didn't panic in the first place), welcome to World-253! That's not an internal name, we don't really call it anything. Speaking of, we don't tend to have names here either! I go by Mia sometimes, since I help with new humans. Usually I just go by Mew!

You may have noticed you're a Pokemon now! Again, please don't panic. It's not permanent unless you want it to be! Well, it's permanent as long as you stay here, but you can come and go whenever you want. We called you here for a reason, though, so I really hope you're willing to at least help... It's not easy to get approval for a human, either from our god or yours. Oh, right! God is real in your world. A lot of humans are very surprised by that! It's nothing to worry about. They wouldn't have sent you if They didn't trust you.

Anyway, back to our world! You're familiar with Pokemon, right? Assuming you're from 1999 or later. Those games were a favor from your god, just to make this process easier for everyone. A lot of those games and media are big oversimplifications, so the rest of the intro is gonna go over the basic things you'll need to know. You can ask why you're here once you've read it, but you probably won't understand otherwise!

First things first – yes, all Pokemon are sapient, yes we can all talk even if it doesn't make sense by your world's physics, and we all live about thirty years. By the time we're 5, we're about your 18! Get used to this kind of thing – the stuff humans think is universal to all worlds really isn't. Physics, for example. Don't try to give us an industrial revolution or anything, it won't work! We don't have subatomic particles or “e and mc squared” or anything here. It's all just moves and such. Not that complicated unless you think about it too hard!

I know it's boring, but that part is actually really important to how we live, so I do have to go a little more in depth about it. Miraidon says that “the problem is not in our ability to generate or use electricity. It is in the very nature of energy in this world. There are no methods of storing it, so while our technology is not significantly less advanced than yours, it is very limited in usage. Only Electric-types and those who can afford to hire them use such items.” Sounds like a bunch of hooey to me, but she swears it matters a lot!

Alright, time for the FAQ bonus lightning round! Here's some general things you really oughta know.

- CAN POKEMON BE KILLED? Yes, but it's hard to! In your world a lucky punch can take out anyone, but here you kind of have to really be trying. (note 2 self revise this might b insensitive bc suicune)

- CAN HUMANS BE KILLED? Yes, same as Pokemon! We don't expect it to happen, but maybe don't piss off Lugia unless you really have to. (NOTE 2 SELF DEFENETELY REVISE THIS)

- WHAT DO POKEMON EAT? Whatever tastes good! Some types can eat things others can't, like metal or trash, but mostly everyone's an omnivore. Some items are way more filling than you'd expect, like Apples.

- ITEMS? FOR THAT MATTER, MOVES? Yeah, that one's mostly accurate to the games! An Apple is always an Apple, but an orange isn't. Yes, we have Oran but also oranges. You didn't ask why we have grass, right?

- AND ABILITIES, AND STATS, AND- No, just moves and items. Everything else is much more free-form.

- WHAT ABOUT TRAINERS AND DUNGEONS? Trainers, obviously not. Dungeons, we'll get to that!

Anyway, I'm starting to run out of page space here, so I’ll hand it over for chapter one! Mia out!

 

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The gentle sound of a hand-crafted wind chime broke the silence of the morning. A small blue creature slowly stirred on the bed, a headache brewing from the last dregs of her nightmares.

Vaporeon awoke with a start. She jumped to her feet in panic, or at least she tried. Her body barely registered the input, and she simply struggled and groaned. What had happened to her? Where the fuck was she?

She sighed and laid back down.

This was Mawile's room. It took her a moment to put the events back together, but the memories didn't stop coming once they started. Hopefully Mawile came for her soon... she couldn't handle them alone.

Vaporeon moved her front-right paw forward. It budged a little, and certainly more than when she first tried. Why was she so weak, all of a sudden?

Oh.

Right.

She bit her good paw and growled. Stupid, stupid, stupid! Literal immortality, and she'd given it up just like that. Sure, it had gotten Lugia off her ass, but for how long? All she'd accomplished was fucking trapping herself like this.

Fucking hell. Goddammit. Whatever. She was here now, so she was just going to have to make the best of it. She filed the rest of her exhausted cursing in a mental bin for later, and looked around the room a little more.

Every shelf was filled with some sort of metal item, discarded blueprint, or well-worn book. It wouldn't be so overwhelming if not for the shelves turning every inch of wall into a chaotic din of storage space. She hoped she'd never be asked to get anything down from one of these... there had to be a ladder somewhere, but good luck using that with three legs.

Vaporeon examined one of the blueprints more closely. She couldn't quite make it out from the range she could crawl to, but she could get a decent sense. Some sort of boat, maybe? It looked very intricate, she didn't get the sense that she'd understand it even if she could get up close.

As she strained towards it, a loud knocking startled her into falling over.

VAPOREON: ACK! I'm here, I'm here!

The visitor threw the door open hard enough to rattle it. Mawile rushed in with a paper bag, which she set on the bed.

MAWILE: Vap'reon! You're aw'ke!
VAPOREON: Yeah, I'm – fuck. Still sore, but I'm awake. How long was I out?
MAWILE: Three d'ys. I've been w'rried sick...
VAPOREON: Fuck.

Mawile sat down anxiously on the edge of the bed. They'd each had so few real connections, it was easy to forget they were still almost strangers.

MAWILE: H'w are you feel'ng?
VAPOREON: Like I just got sat on by a house. But otherwise fine.
VAPOREON: Not hungry, at least. Maybe I kept that feature.
MAWILE: K'pt?
VAPOREON: Oh... right. I forgot I didn't tell you.
VAPOREON: I'm... not Suicune. Not anymore.

Mawile stared at her with the same piercing face she always used for these situations. It made Vaporeon's skin fucking crawl, but- but she just had to endure it. She wouldn't hide anymore, she'd made that commitment and she damn well intended to keep it.

MAWILE: I see. Is th't a good th'ng or a bad th'ng?

VAPOREON: It's... mixed. I hated being like that but I want it back so bad.

VAPOREON: It doesn't matter for now anyway. Lugia would have to allow me to have it back.

MAWILE: But you do w'nt it back?

VAPOREON: It's fucking mixed! It's complicated! I just- I just don't know.

Mawile offered a tentative hand. Vaporeon placed her own paw on it. Mawile's hands looked looked light and fragile from a distance, but each finger had its own set of burns and callouses. She traced across them, lost in the touch.

MAWILE: You d'n't have to d'cide now.
MAWILE: Why d'n't you see wh't being a m'rtal has to offer f'rst?
VAPOREON: I...

Vaporeon pressed close to her girlfriend. Her voice dropped to a whisper as she held back a hint of a sob.

VAPOREON: I think I'd like that.

 

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Mawile's kitchen was the cleanest area in her home. It wasn't tidy, by any means, but her poverty diet left it little use besides testing kitchenware. As such, the next few weeks would see the room gradually become Vaporeon's new art studio.

It had been Raikou's suggestion – just something to help her pass the time. Suicune was clearly not big on self-care, and he seemed desperate to keep her from making the same mistake. It was sweet, if overbearing.

They'd met a few times by now, a week or so now after the incident ended. They got along well enough. Sure, she could still cut the tension with a claw, but that was everywhere these days. She was sure even the mortals on the street were ready to bolt if she made the wrong move.

Mawile cleared her throat like scraping metal. The sound startled Vaporeon out of her musing, and she turned with a wag of the tail.

VAPOREON: Oh! Sorry, need something?
MAWILE: Another m'surement, if it's ok'y.
VAPOREON: Right, sure. Any time.
MAWILE: L'ttle to the left, and... th're. Th'nks.

Vaporeon held as still as she could. More than anything so far, the experience of being measured was incredibly intimate. To be examined so clearly, known so fully, even if it was just the shape of her legs... it was completely overwhelming. Not to mention how loud her mind got when her mortality was laid out so plainly.

VAPOREON: So... what do you think of me so far?

Shit. Too soon, too fast, and now the storming thoughts were even worse. Mawile made a thoughtful noise.

MAWILE: P'sitive so far. You're st'll nicer than anyb'dy's ever been to me.
MAWILE: I'm def'nitely worried, but that's n't important.
VAPOREON: It's important to me. Please.

Mawile looked away, finally unable to continue the measurements.

MAWILE: ...I'm w'rried you'll leave me.
MAWILE: N't just that you'd r'lize I'm worthless.
MAWILE: But if... you b'come Suic'ne again.
MAWILE: Wh're does that leave me?
VAPOREON: Mawile...
MAWILE: It's st'pid, I know. Ign're me.
VAPOREON: No! It's not.
VAPOREON: Listen... I- I don't know what's going to happen to me.
VAPOREON: But we'll work it out, okay?
VAPOREON: As long as you still want me, I'll always want you.
VAPOREON: Immortality could never change that.

Mawile began to cry. Vaporeon leaned against her as comfortingly as she could manage.

MAWILE: And... when you outl've me?
MAWILE: When I'm j'st a vague m'mory?
MAWILE: I don't kn'w if I'm... ok'y with that. I'm s'rry.
VAPOREON: ...I- I don't have to go back. I could stay, with you.
MAWILE: ...
MAWILE: ...no.
VAPOREON: But-
MAWILE: Don't. Don't l't me make a d'cision like that for you.
MAWILE: Do what you w'nt to. That's m're important.
VAPOREON: You're important, too.
MAWILE: I'M NOT WORTH DYING FOR, VAPOREON.

Mawile doubled over. She held her front jaw in agony from opening it so wide. Vaporeon pushed her back into the chair and curled up on her lap.

VAPOREON: We'll talk about it. I won't be hasty.
VAPOREON: Just... don't forget that I love you.
VAPOREON: You're something really special. Immortality isn't the only thing I need to be happy.
MAWILE: ...ok'y. We'll... I'll th'nk ab't it.
MAWILE: Th'nk you. My l've.
VAPOREON: Always.

The two Pokemon returned to their work. They were silent for the better part of the next hour. It wasn't the same silence Vaporeon was used to, though, fearful and hateful and ready to strike. It was a silence of anticipation and wonder, each stealing glances when they thought they could get away with it. Neither was quite subtle enough.

Vaporeon broke the silence next.

VAPOREON: Hey.
MAWILE: Hm?
VAPOREON: How's the business been?
VAPOREON: I hope the advance payment helped.

Mawile put her pen down. Her face never moved more than an inch, so Vaporeon could never quite read it. Embarrassed was her best guess.

MAWILE: It's... b'n really good, act'lly.
VAPOREON: Oh! I'm glad... I was worried I was too much of a burden.
MAWILE: N't at all. Your s'blings stopped by to m'ke sure I could aff'rd it.
MAWILE: But w'th the b'siness from the h'tel, I don't even r'lly need the help.
VAPOREON: From the hotel... oh.
VAPOREON: You mean Hawlucha?
MAWILE: Ah- y's. Do you kn'w him?
VAPOREON: I, uh. May have put in a good word for you.

Mawile froze, then carefully picked Vaporeon up into a tight hug.

MAWILE: ...once ag'n, everything g'd in my life tr'ces back to you.
MAWILE: I'll r'pay you s'mehow. I promise.
VAPOREON: A-ah... really, you're doing plenty.
VAPOREON: Not just in keeping me housed and fed, but in- in having a home
VAPOREON: A place to belong, a heart of love despite my past...
VAPOREON: I could never repay you for that.
MAWILE: It's m'tual.

She carefully set her girlfriend down and returned to her work with renewed spirit.

MAWILE: I'm alm'st done with the d'sign.
MAWILE: You st'll want the sw'mming variant?
VAPOREON: Mhm. I don't want to do much battling or sprinting anymore.
VAPOREON: I'd rather enjoy the waves by the port.
MAWILE: S're. I sh'ld be able to have it d'ne within a m'nth or so.
VAPOREON: Thanks. I'm looking forward to it.

Vaporeon grabbed her brush and put the finishing touches on her latest scribble. It was awful, but it was a start. She enjoyed the process at least... maybe someday she'd be worth something through it.

MAWILE: Hey. Th'ghts on lunch?
VAPOREON: Can't, sorry. I'm meeting Entei today.
MAWILE: Oh. B'st of luck with that. You n'd backup?
VAPOREON: I'll be okay. Thanks, though.
VAPOREON: It seemed really sorry last time I saw it, so... we'll see.

Mawile turned her head and gave Vaporeon a tight yet gentle smile.

MAWILE: Keep me p'sted.
MAWILE: You don't h've to forg've it.
MAWILE: But I th'nk you'll be happier if you c'n.

 

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Right. Mew asked me to do one of these fuckers so here you go.​

Koraidon. God of the Past, if you care about roles. You've already seen my bio or whatever. I made Hoopa fluff it up a bit 'cause he knows not to fuck with me, but it's really just a lot of fucking around and doing whatever the hell I want. It does sorta mean I'm in charge of history though, so now I gotta write this.

That's a great intro, because most of our world's history is just more fucking around. Sure, there were some wars – the biggest killed thousands until Rayquaza, Kyogre, and Groudon all fucking vanished at once. We're pretty sure they're dead, but even Reshiram won't tell us anything about it. It's gotta have been some bad shit if you ask me, it never takes an opportunity to shut the fuck up. Anyway, keep us posted if you see them I guess.

The one big recent mess that actually mattered is what everyone's calling the Vaporeon Incident. That's kind of a stupid name though because Vaporeon didn't really do anything of note. It was Suicune who killed Moltres, then Lugia who kind of killed Suicune in revenge. It's complicated, just ask Mew if you really really have to know more. Don't give anyone shit about it though, please. We've all been through enough on that.

You probably don't care about our drama anyway, right? You want to know about the humans we've nabbed before. You wanna know if any of them kicked the bucket trying to save our asses? Yeah, a few actually. If Mew wants me to write a summary, she's gonna get the damn truth. It's not as dangerous as it sounds though. You should be way stronger than your species normally gets, and you're gonna have the backing of all of us, as much as we can give it. Humans don't get summoned for wars or anything, just when something needs done that none of us can handle. If anyone bitches, we don't use humans. That's rule number one.

Rule number two is we can't keep you here against your will. Kinda stupid, because we're gods and you're not, but the one time we tried, Arceus sent the human home immediately and the flood got our asses anyway. Shows what you get for trying to fucking help. Also, don't ask about Arceus. I know It wasn't in the bio section, but there's a reason. It doesn't talk to anyone but Celebi and Hoopa, and It's apparently a real weirdo. I don't know any more than that, they won't say.

What else do I fucking put here... Mew said I have to fill up the page so I'll just say whatever. Shout-out to my main gal Kyurem, she's crazy fun when you get to know her. Meloetta's kind of incredible too even if she's way too nice. Shout-out to my sister Miraidon even though she's a loser and the future is stupid. Love ya, sis. There's also this Goodra who said he'd put out if I shouted him out here so here's to you I guess, Goodra. Fuck, there's still like half a page left.

I bet I could fill it if I did a paragraph per line.

Yep. That'll work.

Mew can't possibly be mad at me for this.

I'm a goddamned genius.

Hit me up, Goodra.

 

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The picnic was immaculate. The blanket held the most food Vaporeon had ever seen in one place, the grass had been carefully prepped, and even the plates were disarmingly fancy. It was impressive, but it made her a little uncomfortable. Not that either of them needed much help being nervous.

Entei paced across from Vaporeon, laying out silverware and fussing with the basket. There was nothing left to get done at this point, but ten minutes of awkward silence clearly hadn't been enough for it. If one of them was going to break that silence, it was going to have to be her.

Vaporeon stared at it as it worked. Every time she'd met it, its motives and demeanor had seemed completely different. She'd never even seen it in the same form more than three times. They'd parted on decent terms, but so much of that day was a blur now...

The more she thought about it, the less confident she felt about anything she'd done. She'd had an Aeroblast to her head the whole fucking time. If they were going to be family now, that conversation wasn't enough. They were going to have to lay out the terms here and now.

VAPOREON: Entei.
ENTEI: Yes. Vaporeon.

Vaporeon turned towards it, and it followed halfway. She met as much of its eyes as could be seen.

VAPOREON: Thanks for coming. How've you been?
ENTEI: I'm... still here.
VAPOREON: Heh. That's a tall order, isn't it.

It tried out a fragile smile, and turned the rest of the way to face her.

ENTEI: Yeah. But you are strong, and so am I. I'm doing what I can.

Vaporeon let out a small sigh. Maybe it was what was left of Suicune in her... but she just couldn't hate it.

VAPOREON: Listen...
VAPOREON: We're both monsters, alright?
ENTEI: ...
VAPOREON: I won't forget what you made me do, but I'm the one who did it.
VAPOREON: From here on out, we own that.
VAPOREON: We don't lie, and we don't hide, but we don't apologize.
VAPOREON: If you want to do this, it's as villains and victims of the same crime.
VAPOREON: Moving on from it. Together. Okay?

Entei hid its face behind the basket just in time for the crying to start.

ENTEI: O-okay. Thank you.

Vaporeon gave it a few minutes to recover, then started in on the food. It watched her carefully before following suit.

ENTEI: ...so. What... have you been up to?
ENTEI: I made sure you were being fed while you recovered, but... I haven't been back since.
VAPOREON: I've mostly been... figuring things out with Mawile.

It growled at her hesitant tone.

ENTEI: I hope she's been treating you right.
VAPOREON: She has! She has, I promise.
VAPOREON: It's just... the mortality question. You know.
ENTEI: Ah. Of course.
ENTEI: There are... reasons we gods rarely stay close to mortals.
VAPOREON: Yeah. She... I can tell she really wants me to stay mortal.
VAPOREON: She's trying not to pressure me, but... well, she's still kind of pressuring me.
ENTEI: Don't ever let her pressure you into that. EVER.
ENTEI: But...

Entei looked sharply away. Vaporeon sat up and stared at it.

VAPOREON: But what?
ENTEI: It must be nice, is all.
ENTEI: To have that start and end.
ENTEI: You just have to live a good life. Be a normal person for a while.
ENTEI: It doesn't have to be forever.
ENTEI: If everything is taken from you... that doesn't have to be forever, either.

Vaporeon sighed.

VAPOREON: Can we talk about something else?
VAPOREON: I'm really processing a lot of shit right now.
VAPOREON: I don't need your- I don't need to be thinking about this now.
ENTEI: Right. Of course. I'm sorry.
VAPOREON: It's fine. Just... what's on your mind, other than the... Moltres business?

It flinched at the name.

ENTEI: Grieving. Worrying. Sitting forlornly.
VAPOREON: Yeah, yeah. Big and scary and sad. I know. Nothing else?
ENTEI: I've been... in no state to do anything or see anyone.

Vaporeon stared it down. She could barely remember what she'd been so worried about. God or not, the Entei before her couldn't hurt her now if it tried. It must have taken everything it had just to come out here.

VAPOREON: Well, fuck that. You're never going to be if you don't force it.
ENTEI: But-
VAPOREON: No bitching. We're going to Victini's for dinner.
ENTEI: ...
ENTEI: Okay. Thank you, Vaporeon.
VAPOREON: Don't... don't mention it, sib.

 

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3... 2... 1...

SLAM.

Entei ran directly into Victini's fake wall, staggered back, and flopped down. It let out a pathetic whine.

ENTEI: He doesn't want to see me. Let's just go.
VAPOREON: No. If it helps, I'll go in and talk to him.
ENTEI: Please.

Just as she expected, the spectral wall gave way as Vaporeon sprinted through. On the other side, she came face to face with Victini. He stared at her with arms crossed and scowl ablaze.

VAPOREON: Come on, man. Is this about it not coming here lately?
VAPOREON: We're still working it out, but it's been going through-
VICTINI: I know damn well what it's been going through, Vaporeon.
VICTINI: I've been going through it too.
VICTINI: Only difference is, I'm the one who has to suffer alone.
VAPOREON: And it hasn't?
VICTINI: It doesn't HAVE to. Go ask it what I mean. I'll wait.

Victini flipped her off and turned to sulk. She walked back outside to the dejected Entei.

ENTEI: It went that bad, huh.
VAPOREON: No idea. I've only met him twice now, I've never seen him like this.
VAPOREON: He was talking about how he has to be alone or something?
ENTEI: Oh. Fuck. I promise, that hadn't even crossed my mind...
VAPOREON: What?
ENTEI: Victini isn't allowed to leave that building. Ever.
VAPOREON: Wait, what???
ENTEI: It's punishment for... well, it was a long time ago. Before we were born.
ENTEI: It's not my place to say.
ENTEI: Ask him sometime, or maybe Hoopa at the next conference.
VAPOREON: Okay, slow down. Every damn sentence, you have some new lore you assume I know.
VAPOREON: What conference, when, and why the fuck would I be invited?
ENTEI: It's just a yearly waste of time. And why would you not be?
ENTEI: You're a former and potential god, and with what just happened...
ENTEI: If nothing else, they're going to want you to speak your side of the story.
VAPOREON: Shit. Fucking... I'll deal with that later. Just get in there and we'll do this one at a time.
ENTEI: If he doesn't want to see me, he doesn't want to see me! Case closed!
VAPOREON: Don't be stupid. He wouldn't be so mad if he didn't miss you.
VAPOREON: You've got the densest skull this side of Lugia. Show him you care enough to try again.
ENTEI: That hurts, but fine.
ENTEI: I guess I do owe him that.

---

She was right, once again. The three Pokemon were soon seated (or floated) around a smallish booth. Though if Vaporeon had thought the tension at lunch was thick...

ENTEI: So. It's good to see you again, Victini.
VICTINI: Oh, is it? That's wild. I wouldn't have guessed!
ENTEI: Be reasonable. I've been mourning-
VICTINI: WE ALL HAVE, ENTEI. Great timing to abandon me there.
VICTINI: Moltres was the only one who even visited me anymore!
ENTEI: That's not true. I visited too.
VICTINI: Yeah, when it dragged your ass out here.
VICTINI: My entire social life was being its third fucking wheel. Depressing, but it's all I had!
VICTINI: Either to your gay-ass sappy love story, or its weird abusive situationship with-
ENTEI: ITS FUCKING WHAT?
VICTINI: Gee, it's almost like you'd have known about that if you ever visited me!
ENTEI: WHO? WITH WHO?!
VICTINI: Oh! Oh, now you want to hear what I say? Now I'm worth your time?
VICTINI: It was with my middle fucking finger!
ENTEI: YOU FUCKING BITCH-
VAPOREON: HEY!

The Fire-type gods froze and turned to Vaporeon. She quaked in her seat and hid behind the basket of breadsticks.

VAPOREON: I- I have a question.
ENTEI: Of all times, now?
VICTINI: No, by all means. Take the floor away from this shithead.

She swallowed. Fuck... the fighting had paused at least, but if she didn't get the topic to take the hardest turn she could think of....

VAPOREON: S-so... why... can't you leave?
ENTEI: You're shitting me. I know I said to ask, but NOW?
VICTINI: Oh, this is fucking fantastic! Good thinking, Vaporeon.
VICTINI: Now instead of just losing Entei, I'll lose both of you.
VAPOREON: Lose me?
VICTINI: Why do you think no one visits, man? I've done some real bad shit.
VAPOREON: Try me. I've done worse.
ENTEI: ...no, Vaporeon. You haven't.

Entei stared off as far from the others as it could. The air was less explosive now, but Vaporeon was hardly sure the frigid hush that replaced it was any better.

VICTINI: Fine, then. I guess we were going to have to talk about it eventually.
VICTINI: How much do you know about my role as a god?
VAPOREON: Um. I kind of assumed you just didn't do anything.
VICTINI: HAH! Wouldn't that have been better for everyone.
VICTINI: No, I'm the God of Victory. I win, that's my job.
VAPOREON: That sounds... really stupid, and vague as hell.
VICTINI: It is and it is! A great role to give to a young, naive god who fell in with the wrong crowd.
VICTINI: I mean, we were all young and naive back when the world started, but you get the point.
VICTINI: Point is, I thought I was untouchable, just because I'm untouchable.
VICTINI: I stirred up some drama just to prove a point, and-
ENTEI: "Some drama" usually doesn't leave thousands dead, Victini.
VICTINI: I was GETTING THERE, Entei.
VAPOREON: ...
VICTINI: Four thousand, eight hundred, and twenty-two. If you were wondering.
VICTINI: I... I asked Reshiram for the number, later. I don't have anything to do but remember these days anyway.
VICTINI: Or... and twenty-five, if you count the Weather Trio. That's unconfirmed.

Vaporeon let out a breath she'd been holding far too long. Thousands dead... three gods gone forever... all for what?

VAPOREON: w-why...?
VICTINI: Ugh, see, I warned you.
VICTINI: Because I was bored, because I thought it would prove how cool and important I am, because I got in so deep I thought I couldn't possibly stop until the world was destroyed.
VICTINI: Look at me! It's impossible for me to lose a fight!
VICTINI: I can do whatever the hell I want
VICTINI: Yeah, and where did that get me.
VICTINI: Trapped in a fucking diner, can't even go buy alcohol to forget what I've done.
VICTINI: Can't be executed because that'd be winning against me.
VICTINI: Can't even kill myself, because that'd be losing against myself. I've fucking tried.
ENTEI: Victini-
VICTINI: Don't act like you didn't fucking know, Entei. You big... fucking mutt.

Victini slumped back in his chair. He forced his face into the shape of the rage he'd had before, but there was nothing behind it but exhaustion anymore.

VAPOREON: I'll... still come by if you want me to.
VICTINI: ...really?
VAPOREON: Yeah. It'd be nice to have another friend.
VAPOREON: Plus, having someone else who understands having to, y'know. Atone.
ENTEI: ...who isn't just atoning for what they've done to you.
VICTINI: You know I... I could hurt you in here, right? I'm in here for a reason.
VICTINI: Not that I would! I- I just-
VAPOREON: Shut up. I'm mortal now, right? Anyone could hurt me anywhere.
VAPOREON: I'm not going to make you cut your hands off to talk to me.
VAPOREON: Entei is going to visit tons too, if it doesn't want to piss me off.

It sighed.

ENTEI: I will. I never meant to leave like that.
ENTEI: I just... needed some space.
ENTEI: I know you needed me too, and I'm sorry. But I needed to take care of myself first.
VICTINI: Yeah. I can't really blame you. I guess.
VICTINI: I just wish... it could be my turn to be cared about, someday.
VAPOREON: It will be, and soon. Things are gonna get better.

She pulled Victini into a gentle hug.

VAPOREON: I promise.

 

[val-triplicate]

Hey. Gonna give this my best shot, but we've been going through a lot.​

Mew says I've got the “most perspective” for this, and I guess she has a point. The name's Raikou – God of Thunder. If you're thinking “that sounds redundant when we have Zapdos, God of Storms,” well, yeah. It kind of is, and I kind of am. I didn't ask for it, but we've got to deal with the hands we got dealt.

Anyway, to the point of the chapter: what is a legendary? A legendary (or god, or mythical, it's the same thing) is just a really strong Pokemon who was created at the same time as our world was. Usually. My sibling Entei and I happened later. Ho-oh, the God of Vitality (actually very distinct from the God of Life, Xerneas) resurrected three Pokemon who died in a forest fire into me and my siblings. Don't ask about the third right now. Please.

So, what's it like being a god? Kinda sucks, honestly. Mostly we have to kick around in our dungeons in case anyone wants to come challenge us. It's partially because we've got that responsibility to mortals and all, but it's also so we don't get into too much trouble. You'll learn more about that in Chapter 5, but there was a big war caused mostly by that. It's better this way, I guess. Sure doesn't make it less mind-numbing.

There's more to it than just killing time and smacking down adventurers, of course. We do all still have our jobs, even if some of us can't really do anything useful. I often tag-team with Zapdos, either when there's two thunderstorms that are gonna be problems, or when there's a specific ground target that needs to be protected. Then, one or both of us goes out and acts as a lightning rod to make sure the mortals don't get cooked. Other gods' roles usually about the same, that'll be covered in Chapter 4.

The battles with mortals are by far the most fun part of the job. Obviously everyone's got their own thoughts on it, but I for one love to fight. We outrank them easily, but they can be incredibly creative! Trust me, you haven't lived until you've seen a Rhydon use Smack Down to knock you into a Fissure that already missed. It's crazy stuff, I wish more of them came around.

Above everything else, I just gotta stress how boring it is being immortal. Unless there's some great tragedy, no one does anything, no one spends time together, nothing. I'm one of the chattiest, and I steal away as often as I can to go fuck around with the mortals. Most of the others just get really used to meditating, or they find their own hobbies and mortals to interact with.

Honestly, that's about all the stamina I have for this topic right now. I'll get around to it later. If you're seeing this sentence... guess we needed your help sooner than I could. Sorry about that, and good luck.

 

[val-triplicate]

Zealous Rapids. The name was insultingly fitting, Vaporeon mused. The perfect name for the perfect dungeon for a fucking loser who'd done nothing but get everyone killed.

In the boss room, Vaporeon floated to the top of the pool and scowled. Raikou shuffled over, pretending poorly that the room evoked less emotions in him than it did in her.

RAIKOU: So...what do you think? Is it your dream home?
RAIKOU: One bedroom, no amenities, but you can't beat the price.
VAPOREON: I hate it. How did she live like this?
RAIKOU: You do? But I've definitely seen you enjoy swimming, right?
RAIKOU: It's nice and peaceful, too, it'd be perfect to paint in.
VAPOREON: Paint what? The same tree, day in and day out?
RAIKOU: I mean- you do have to find your own meaning, yeah.
RAIKOU: But it's worth it! I promise, it's-

Raikou stopped at the look on Vaporeon's face. He sighed and sat down.

RAIKOU: Right. Time for this conversation, then? Go for it.
VAPOREON: What was she like? Suicune, I mean. Me, I guess.
VAPOREON: Why does this place feel so horrible? It's pretty, but it's just...
RAIKOU: You were... Suicune was... well...
RAIKOU: I'll be honest, it wasn't great. She almost never left her pool unless dragged.
RAIKOU: I talked to everyone I could think of, Vaporeon. I prayed to Arceus almost monthly. Nothing helped.
VAPOREON: Is monthly really that much?
RAIKOU: When you're five thousand years old, it definitely is!
RAIKOU: The best I could ever figure out is that our family just... wasn't really built for immortality. You were already a little sad before dying, and once that situation was forever...
VAPOREON: I... keep forgetting we died. Like, that's insane, right?
RAIKOU: I mean, yeah, but being basically infinitely old isn't much less so!
VAPOREON: I guess. If Suicune was that depressed, though... how were you getting through it? How ARE you getting through it?

Raikou looked away guiltily.

RAIKOU: I mean, it's... definitely been a little rough, yeah.
RAIKOU: But it's not all bad! I have Entei to hang out with, and you, and Mom, and y'know.
VAPOREON: ...
VAPOREON: What if I don't become a god again?
RAIKOU: Then- then I'll adapt. I'll figure it out, I'll... don't worry about it, okay?
RAIKOU: You just live the life you wanna live. We'll handle the rest.

She leaned against him, and he leaned back. Neither spoke for a while. They just rested, processing, bracing themselves against the question she alone would have to answer.

RAIKOU: Hey. Anything else you wanted to ask while you're here?
VAPOREON: What were we like?
RAIKOU: While you were still Suicune?
VAPOREON: No. Before that. Before we died.
RAIKOU: Well... to be honest, I don't remember much else.
RAIKOU: I know you were upset. About something in particular, I think, but I don't think I ever found out what.
VAPOREON: Mm. You never thought to ask?
RAIKOU: I must have! I guess it just wasn't important. It didn't seem like it mattered anymore.
RAIKOU: Becoming a god... it's kind of a big deal, you know?
RAIKOU: Everything you thought mattered doesn't anymore. Everything you thought didn't now does.
VAPOREON: Yeah. I don't know if I want it back. Honestly... I don't think I do.
VAPOREON: What if none of this matters to me? What if I wake up from this like it was a dream?
RAIKOU: I'm not sure I'm following?
VAPOREON: Mawile, the life I'm building, the friends I'm making, and even you.
VAPOREON: How many times did Suicune willingly go out with you? Without having to be dragged.
RAIKOU: ...to be honest, almost never. It wasn't that she didn't love me though.
RAIKOU: It- it can't have been.
VAPOREON: I'm not saying that she didn't.
VAPOREON: Just that I don't think I can handle being her anymore.
VAPOREON: I don't think I ever could.

Vaporeon leaned into him harder, trying to comfort him despite the anguish she knew she was inflicting. It hurt to have to say it, but she had to keep pushing forward. It was the only thing that'd ever saved her before.

VAPOREON: What should I do after this?
RAIKOU: What?
VAPOREON: After I figure out what I want. Or just after we're done here today.
RAIKOU: You could take a break and relax for a bit, right?
VAPOREON: No. I have to get this all taken care of before I can rest.
RAIKOU: If you say so. Then... you should go talk to Mom.

 

[val-triplicate]

Life, death, and rebirth. Everywhere she looked, the jungle swelled with the sounds of activity. It was breathtaking, in a stressful sort of way that only made Vaporeon's anxiety worse. Still, she made a note to take Mawile here someday.

Cascading Jungle was a strangely vertical jungle. Vaporeon had been teleported to the top, but she could hazard a guess at the parts she couldn't see. The dungeon was composed of a few dozen massive trees, each with unnaturally sturdy and regular branches for floors. The whole thing was bounded on one side by a cliff face. Instead of being a boss arena itself, the top floor led into the cliff through a set of large wooden doors.

No time but the present. Vaporeon shoved the doors open and walked inside.

VAPOREON: Ho-oh?

She blinked hard. The room was full of cool, thick mist... it was impossible to see anything but the silhouette of a towering bird. Regal and composed, it spread its wings wide.

HO-OH: welcome. thank you for coming.

Vaporeon halted. The figure was so large, it set her legs ablaze with nervous agitation. But... no, she'd seen this before. The hesitance of the voice, the need to hide and the collected front to hide behind. She pushed forward, and the shadow backed up in fear.

HO-OH: wait. please.
VAPOREON: Mom. It's okay.
VAPOREON: I'm here.

The mist dissipated as Vaporeon embraced her mother, revealing the withered woman who trembled with every touch of the hug. She sobbed loudly as she collapsed into it.

HO-OH: i-im so sorry... please dont- please dont hate me...
HO-OH: i swear i had no choice i tried to resist if- if you want to kill me you can-
VAPOREON: Please, calm down. I don't hate you. Not even a little.
VAPOREON: Have you been eating? You look terrible...
HO-OH: they- they make me eat a little. i dont deserve to.
VAPOREON: You do. Have some more, okay? For me.
HO-OH: for- for you. of course.
VAPOREON: Thank you. In the meantime, could you do me a favor?
HO-OH: anything. anything, i- i- im so sorry please im sorry kill me im-
VAPOREON: MOM.
VAPOREON: Deep breaths. In and out. Four sets of four. Okay?

Ho-oh wrested herself still. In, out, in in in- Vaporeon put a paw on her, and her breathing calmed down a bit. In, out, in... and out...

HO-OH: I... I feel better. Thank you. Vaporeon.
VAPOREON: I'm glad.

---

The next hour was slow and methodical. Vaporeon watched with a weary irony as she carried Ho-oh through the same recovery process she'd endured not half a month prior. Once she could stand fully without falling, Vaporeon decided she was ready for the next step.

HO-OH: Vaporeon, I- I'm not sure about this.
HO-OH: I haven't flown since- since I lost you.
VAPOREON: You'll be fine. You trust me, right? You love me?
HO-OH: Of course I do. It's- it's just-
VAPOREON: Come on. You're not going to get used to it sitting here.
HO-OH: I suppose, I'm just-
HO-OH: I'm just scared. What if I fail and you get hurt?
VAPOREON: You won't, and I won't, and I'd love you even so. Okay?
HO-OH: O-okay.

Ho-oh walked forward with held breath and trembling claws. Wings stretched. Sky checked for any collisions – all clear. Her daughter aboard for guidance, claws dug in for stability. Panic attacks... less frequent than before, at least.

The pit in Ho-oh's stomach pushed back against every step, but Vaporeon's presence was stronger. She knew had to do this, and do it now. To get better, to make her proud, to be forgiven. She wavered up to the cliff face, stepped off, and flew.

Ho-oh managed to stay roughly level as they made their way to the lake, but panic overtook Vaporeon as that began to shift. Every time Ho-oh lost control, she had to grip harder, and the pain of her claws was making the bird's own panic even worse. At this rate...

VAPOREON: Y-you're doing great!
VAPOREON: Just keep pointing up!
HO-OH: i can't do this i can't do this what was i thinking-

Vaporeon whined in fear as they began to tilt.

VAPOREON: HO-OH!
VAPOREON: FOCUS! YOU ARE A GOD, ACT LIKE IT!
HO-OH: I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY!!!

In a panicked daze, Ho-oh screamed and dove towards the lake. Vaporeon lost her grip immediately.

VAPOREON: MOMMY!!!

Razor-sharp blades stabbed into Vaporeon from either side as she fell. They drew her in, and warmth embraced her for the few moments left before the water hit.

---

Vaporeon clawed her eyes back open on the lake shore, who knows how long later. She focused them enough to look at Ho-oh and cursed. All that progress... she was getting fucking tired of giving so much for nothing.

Ho-oh was standing over her, sobbing with incomprehensible apologies. Was that blood on her talons? Oh. Oh, that was hers.

VAPOREON: Urrgh...
HO-OH: VAPOREON! Y-you're awake, I'm so sorry I'm so sorry I'm so sorry-
VAPOREON: Nggh. Don't be. You caught me, right?
VAPOREON: Doesn't even... hurt.

That was less of a blatant lie than usual, at least. Ho-oh must have stopped the bleeding, but it sure didn't feel great.

HO-OH: I can't believe I- I- you trusted me, and I betrayed you again, and-
VAPOREON: STOP. Just shut up, you're fine, okay?
VAPOREON: You never betrayed me. Like before, you had to hurt me to save me.
HO-OH: I- I had to. He told me he would kill you if- if I didn't change your form.
HO-OH: And then, you- he said- he said he would- if he wasn't satisfied with...
VAPOREON: Mom. Slow down. One thought at a time.

She breathed in, deeply. Hold for a second, then out. Repeat. Repeat. A little easier each time. Then comes the hard part.

HO-OH: I... you know what my role in this was. right?
HO-OH: I was made to use my- my dominion over... over her.
HO-OH: I was to make her into you. Uxie t-took her memories, and I was to... watch over you.

She sobbed softly, pouring out what little life she had left to give.

HO-OH: I attacked him, every time... I rarely won, but I- I never killed him.
HO-OH: I couldn't kill him, or... I- I'm sorry I didn't. I should have.
VAPOREON: No. The world needs him. That's worth more than revenge.
VAPOREON: Now he has time to learn how badly he fucked up, and apologize.

Ho-oh shuddered with grief and anger.

HO-OH: He- if he is truly sorry, he will not show his face to me again.
HO-OH: I do not care about the world a-anymore. If we are to meet, h-he will die.

Vaporeon stamped her foot down, and Ho-oh flinched.

VAPOREON: No. We're not going to fucking fight anymore.
VAPOREON: You will both be civil. I will MAKE him apologize if I have to.
HO-OH: I- okay. I promise. Anything for you, my daughter.
HO-OH: But I- I cannot promise I will be kind.
HO-OH: Lugia is the only wretched beast m-more deserving of death than I.
VAPOREON: Hmf. What do you consider worthy of death? Abuse? Violence?
VAPOREON: Murder?

Ho-oh roared in furious agony.

HO-OH: I KILLED MY OWN DAUGHTER! And he- he made me do it.
HO-OH: He made me watch every second of your suffering, and he relished in it!
HO-OH: If- if that was where I drew the line, I would not have forgiven Suicune.
HO-OH: I- I would not... but I have never been angry with you for a second.
HO-OH: What I did was worse. I had to look the one I loved the most in the eyes as I- as I extinguished her completely.
HO-OH: If I did not need to apologize to you for my crimes, I would have done the same to myself already.
HO-OH: If- if you did not beg me to try and be happy, I would be doing so now.

Vaporeon stomped harder. A bolt of pain crackled up her leg. She bared her fangs and panted loudly.

VAPOREON: You'd... do that to me?
HO-OH: I would never! I will never hurt you again I promise...
HO-OH: Nor would I ever let anyone harm you, no matter what- no matter what I had to sacrifice for it.
VAPOREON: But you'd... you'd leave me all alone...
HO-OH: ...
HO-OH: As much as I hoped for it... as much as my heart yearned for it.
HO-OH: I was not able to imagine that you would forgive me.
HO-OH: That... my passing would be one that anyone would mourn.
HO-OH: I... I would not do that to you, not now. I can see it would... harm you.

Vaporeon stared at the grass. Her body twitched and shook.

VAPOREON: ...Was it just luck I found you alive?
VAPOREON: I could have come and found nothing but a decaying corpse where my mother was supposed to be...
HO-OH: I... I would have held out. For as long as it took for you to be ready.
VAPOREON: No. No... I know what it is. You've been saying it the whole time.
VAPOREON: You wanted me to kill you.
HO-OH: ...

Vaporeon spat blood on the ground. Her mind swam with emotions she refused to acknowledge. Of course it would all come crashing back down on her. It always did, it always had, it always would. No point running any longer.

VAPOREON: FINE! Fine, is this what you want?!

She charged forward at full speed, fangs bared. Ho-oh flinched back, but caught herself. Of course this was what Vaporeon wanted. She'd known it all along, and-

Vaporeon lunged, tripped, stumbled, and collapsed ass over head. She slammed her skull into the ground with an audible crash. She pulled herself up slowly and began to sob.

Ho-oh watched, silent and heartbroken, and she began to sing.

HO-OH: My child, my daughter, my son...
HO-OH: I'm nothing but for you, each one...
HO-OH: I will take you 'cross the mountains, I will grant you every sea...
HO-OH: There is nothing more to my life, than the joy you bring to me...

Vaporeon's tears ebbed away as Ho-oh's sprang forth. This song... it was so familiar. She tore at the grass and sobbed, that she couldn't remember it... but even those tears dried up too. Just to hear it again, just to feel the love it held for her was enough.

Ho-oh walked over, resting by her daughter as the song healed her wounds.

HO-OH: My daughter... I love you. I will be here for you as long as it takes.
HO-OH: I am sorry I have forgotten myself. In my despair, I have forced the role of parent on you instead.
HO-OH: I will not make this mistake again, not as long as I live.
HO-OH: You have been strong, and you have been kind.
HO-OH: Allow yourself now to be safe and to be loved.
VAPOREON: D-don't... don't leave me... like that...
HO-OH: Beloved Vaporeon... you are the sun that starts the morning and the rain that brings us life.
HO-OH: I will never abandon you, and I will never let myself come to any harm.
HO-OH: I promise this. You have nothing to worry about ever again.
VAPOREON: Thank you... I- I'm so tired, I just want to go to sleep...
HO-OH: Rest well, my daughter. Your mother is here now.

 

[val-triplicate]

TERAPAGOS ID: #####
TIMELINE ID: #####
CURRENT POSITION: BEFORE CONFERENCE

KORAIDON ARCHETYPE: RESTRAINED
MIRAIDON ARCHETYPE: SUPPORTIVE​

SUCCESS STILL POSSIBLE: YES
HOPE STILL POSSIBLE: YES​

SUCCESS PROBABILITY: LOW
HOPE PROBABILITY: HIGH​

VARIABLE: LUGIA'S VERDICT
NEW VALUE: RETURN TO IMMORTALITY NOT FORBIDDEN
SHIFT METHOD: ARTICUNO​

VARIABLE: DUNGEON CULTURE
NEW VALUE: INCREASED PHYSICAL AGGRESSION
SHIFT METHOD: KORAIDON​

VARIABLE: VAPOREON WRT LUGIA
NEW VALUE: TENSE DISTANCE
SHIFT METHOD: FOLLOWS FROM TRIAL​

OUTCOME: YET TO BE SEEN
PREVIOUS FAILURE: LOGICAL INSTABILITY
PROJECTED FAILURE: HOPE REMAINS​

 

[val-triplicate]

The beating of powerful wings sent large shockwaves through the field outside Basin City. Vaporeon scanned the area as she dismounted. She'd asked to meet outside for more than one reason – getting a reputation here as a god's daughter would be more trouble than it was worth. Ho-oh nudged her forward as Raikou and Entei swarmed the bird.

RAIKOU: MOM!!! You're really back...
ENTEI: You look- you look great, Mom. Just a little... tired.
ENTEI: Please don't hide away like that again... we really needed you. We need you.
HO-OH: I'm sorry, my children. It will not happen again.

Vaporeon shook off a sniffle as she and Mawile watched the scene.

VAPOREON: Hey. Can I talk to you about something?
MAWILE: Mm? Oh, of c'rse.

She fidgeted with the item behind her back and the planned speech she was rapidly forgetting. Too late to back out now... but it was the right time. She could feel it.

VAPOREON: It's about the mortality thing. And about us.
MAWILE: Oh. Y've decided, then.
VAPOREON: I... I haven't. Not just yet.
VAPOREON: There's still so much I don't know.
VAPOREON: Who I am, who I was. Who she was. Who I can be.
VAPOREON: It could take me forever to figure out all it out. Maybe I never will.
VAPOREON: But. I've decided on something more important.
VAPOREON: I've thought of every path, I've considered every way my life could take me.
VAPOREON: And Mawile...

She pulled out the Rainbow Feather and knelt as well as she could.

VAPOREON: I want to stay with you, no matter what.
VAPOREON: You've given my life its meaning. I don't want to live it without you.
VAPOREON: Where one of us goes, we both go. Okay?
VAPOREON: Whether I become a god again or not.
MAWILE: I- you d'n't mean-
VAPOREON: I do. I can't promise that they'll allow that, but my decision is final.
VAPOREON: Come what may, we'll face it together. Now, and forever.
VAPOREON: Mawile... will you marry me?

---

Forward, forward... achingly slow, for now, but stable. Now back, now to each side. Vaporeon walked hesitantly on all fours: three flesh and one metal. The prosthetic sparkled with a flashy golden ring, forged with dyes from a vibrant rainbow feather.

MAWILE: W'll? How does it f'l?
VAPOREON: It's- it's gonna take some getting- augh!

Mawile winced as her fiancée fell. Talking and walking was still too much, it seemed. She offered a hand back up, which was accepted without pause.

MAWILE: That'll h'ppen. Give it t'me.
MAWILE: What ab't the fit?
VAPOREON: It's perfect. Thank you, darling.
VAPOREON: I gotta get going, though... thanks for making sure I had it in time.
MAWILE: Of c'rse, dear. You s're you don't need b'ckup?
MAWILE: Don't p'sh yourself too h'rd. Please.
VAPOREON: I'll be fine. And... yeah. I won't.

Vaporeon stepped outside into the... fancy gilded waiting room? She whipped her head around and checked, but the shop was still there. Mawile looked at her, just as shocked.

VAPOREON: What-
HOOPA: Oh! Hey! Sorry, I was just setting the portal up.
HOOPA: You're right on time.
VAPOREON: Uh. Perfect, thanks.
HOOPA: You can go on in if you're ready!
VAPOREON: Can't we talk first? I still haven't gotten any real answers.
HOOPA: Man... I'm kinda focused on the conference right now, but I'll try.
HOOPA: What do you want to know?

She gave the weird purple floater a suspicious glower. Everything about this place made her skin crawl, but the god seemed oddly... exhausted. Professional, sure, but there was a keen note of languid resignment too.

VAPOREON: First request. I wanted to get to know everyone, so-
HOOPA: The surveys? They're on that desk over there.
HOOPA: Just give the blank ones to Celebi when you see it, and don't tell anyone what they wrote.
HOOPA: We figured you'd want the answers now, you know how it is.
VAPOREON: I really fucking don't, but sure. Thanks.
VAPOREON: Um, next question. Can Victini please be let out?
HOOPA: That's- ugh. That's really not up to me, okay?
HOOPA: I can explain later, but I don't want to have to twist the timeline to get everything done.
VAPOREON: Right. Should've expected that. I'll... let you get to it.

Fucking terrific. At least there was time to explore... whether she was really ready to or not. This place could eat her alive, but there wasn't much choice. She had to prove her worth. She had to prove she could be a god again, or even just family of them. She needed to establish herself, and she already had an idea of where to start.

 

[val-triplicate]

What is your name?​ Celebi! :D What is your role?​ I'm the Master of Time Travel! I'm also the second-in-command to Dialga. What was your relationship to Suicune?​ I could ask her if you want! I haven't really talked to her much yet, but she didn't seem to like anyone too much. What would you like your relationship with me to be?​ I'd love to be friends! I'll spend absolutely every second with you that you're willing to, if we hit it off. Maybe even if we don't! What do you think about immortality?​ That's kind of... really complicated. More so for me than anyone else. Everyone else lives for 24 hours each day, right? For me, it's anywhere from none to hundreds, maybe more. I can't say I love it or hate it, it's just the way I am. Do you wish to attend the wedding?​ Absolutely! If so, would you bring a gift? (Gifts are not mandatory.)​ Sure, what do you want? I can get you stuff or use my powers, but anything crazy Dialga will have to approve. She gets grumpy if I ask too often.

What is your name?​ Mew! : ) What is your role?​ I help Pokemon with their bodies! If the form you have doesn't match what's inside, I can change it for you! ^u^ What was your relationship to Suicune?​ We met a few times at meetings! She didn't seem very nice! :/ I wish I could have helped somehow, but she always said no when I offered. What would you like your relationship with me to be?​ I'd like to be friends! :3 Everyone here is so isolated, I never have anyone to hang out with. What do you think about immortality?​ Uhhhh... I guess I don't think about it too often?! There's ways to stay busy if you look hard enough! ^v^ Do you wish to attend the wedding?​ Absolutely!!! It sounds like a great time, and I've never been to one before :> If so, would you bring a gift? (Gifts are not mandatory.)​ Obviously! Well, kinda. :P I don't know if it counts to offer my services? I could fix your leg, or Mawile's speech issues, or give either or both of you any number of fun upgrades. :] Just let me know what you'd like, I'm at your service!!

 

[val-triplicate]

KNOCK BEFORE ENTERING.​

Vaporeon knocked hard, and the door swung open immediately. Beyond it, a ridiculous-looking ball-headed Pokemon reclined casually on a beanbag chair. His eyes were shut tight.

(CALYREX: Please, come in.)
(CALYREX: I'm dreadfully busy, but I was hoping you would choose to stop by.)

She stepped in with a paranoid gait. The room was depressingly dark and empty; a small ice box full of Apples was its only other feature.

VAPOREON: Um. Sorry for bothering then.
(CALYREX: Not at all.)
VAPOREON: I was told to talk to you about guild stuff? I couldn't get in to see Alakazam.
(CALYREX: I see. One moment.)
(CALYREX: ...)
(CALYREX: Thank you. I have informed Xatu that you are always welcome here.)
VAPOREON: Here? I thought...
(CALYREX: Forgive me. I forget my own secrecy on occasion.)
(CALYREX: My name is Calyrex. I am the Guildmaster of the Central Guild of 253.)
(CALYREX: I am the God of Mortals. Alakazam is simply my alias, to seem less distant.)
VAPOREON: For a god of mortals, you're a bitch to get a hold of.
(CALYREX: Perhaps so. My job is not to befriend them, but you protect them.)
(CALYREX: I have not the time for relationships beyond those most practical.)
VAPOREON: That's... really fucking sad. I'll come by sometimes then, maybe.
(CALYREX: Regardless. What did you come here to ask for?)
VAPOREON: I don't need anything. Just wanted to give you heads up.

She handed over a small glass orb she'd found the day before. The seed blooming within filled her heart with hope unbidden.

VAPOREON: Zealous Rapids is active again.
VAPOREON: I- I gave it up. Put a Water Stone on the pedestal.
VAPOREON: Turns out that's... just a thing you can do.
(CALYREX: My word. Thank you, Vaporeon.)
(CALYREX: Have any moved into the dungeon?)
VAPOREON: No. I covered the entrance so you would get first crack.

Calyrex's eyes cracked open first in shock, then pain. From the reaction, he must not have opened them in months.

CALYREX: ...thank you.
CALYREX: nngh.
(CALYREX: My apologies. Thank you, Vaporeon.)
(CALYREX: You've helped more than you know.)
VAPOREON: Oh, have I? Then... actually yeah, I do want something from you.
(CALYREX: Please, speak.)
VAPOREON: Luxio and Arbok. And... Scrafty's folks.
VAPOREON: Take care of them, please. It's too late to make amends, but...
(CALYREX: Is it? You are more familiar with mortals, perhaps.)
(CALYREX: Yet you stand before a god few have ever met, at the most pivotal moment in your many lives, and you think first of them.)
(CALYREX: I will inform them of this, and I will ensure they are tended to.)
VAPOREON: ...yeah. Thanks.
VAPOREON: Then I'll see you around. Whether you like it or not.
(CALYREX: I look forward to it.)

 

[val-triplicate]

What is your name?​ Heatran. What is your role?​ Caretaker of the whole planet, minus the water and air. Constantly busy. What was your relationship to Suicune?​ I'll be up front: I'm not falling for the rebirth scam. My relationship to you is the same as ever. You're younger than the war, so I don't know you. All I know is that you're a threat. One more dead god and we may have to write off the planet completely. What would you like your relationship with me to be?​ Stay in your place and don't talk to me. If you die when your time is up, we won't have any problems. What do you think about immortality?​ It's a contract. Do your job, live another day. There isn't time for there to be anything more to it. Trust me, Suicune: you don't want it, even if you could be trusted with it. Do you wish to attend the wedding?​ No. If so, would you bring a gift? (Gifts are not mandatory.)​ Absolutely not.

What is your name?​ Wo-Chien. What is your role?​ God of Regret. I keep us all in line. What was your relationship to Suicune?​ Do you know what Moltres' last thoughts were? It was afraid for Entei, and for your whole family more than its own. It knew what she was unleashing upon the world. It knew the coming danger to any around her, even once she was gone. Do not forget, Vaporeon. More is always at stake then you think. What would you like your relationship with me to be?​ Do you know what Suicune's last thoughts were? Sheer relief. Pure, unadulterated bliss as the knowledge of what she'd become was ripped from her. Not a single thought of those she'd loved. Not a single thought of those she'd left behind. Choose wisely, Vaporeon. Every decision is permanent. What do you think about immortality?​ Do you know why Lugia spared you? You weathered his challenge and resisted the hatred that still coils around his neck. He still hopes you will save him, like he believes you promised. Be careful, Vaporeon. What replaces this hatred may not be any kinder to him or to you. Do you wish to attend the wedding?​ I do not wish to trouble you. I'll be thinking of you both. If so, would you bring a gift? (Gifts are not mandatory.)​ My warnings are gift enough. Embrace your regrets, Vaporeon, lest they be all you leave behind.

 

[val-triplicate]

Vaporeon cowered before the great and powerful dragon. To an outside eye, very little had changed about her since the last time she'd faced it. She had new scars she wore with no shame, and a new leg to stand on, yet the equal footing she'd taken for granted was now clearly gone.

RESHIRAM: YOU HAVE COME TO RECEIVE YOUR FULL REWARD.
RESHIRAM: FEAR NOT, VAPOREON. MY KNOWLEDGE IS STILL FOR YOU TO TAKE.
VAPOREON: I- I came to ask about Suicune and Moltres. I have to know.
RESHIRAM: YOU SHALL KNOW ALL YOU WISH TO. WHERE MAY I START?
VAPOREON: At... the beginning. Please.

Reshiram let out a roar, and the entire cavern went dark. It raised a wing and sent bright sparks into the air. Each spark moved into its proper place, until rough images of the world's gods appeared.

RESHIRAM: THREE THOUSAND YEARS AGO, THIS WORLD WAS BORN.
RESHIRAM: EACH OF US WAS CREATED AT THAT TIME.
RESHIRAM: EACH OF US RECEIVED OUR PURPOSE AT THAT TIME.
RESHIRAM: THIS DIVISION WAS NOT NEGOTIABLE, AND NOT EQUAL AT ALL.
RESHIRAM: EVEN AMONG THOSE WITH SIMILAR ROLES, THESE GODS' LEVELS OF RESPONSIBILITY VARY WILDLY.
RESHIRAM: AMONG THOSE BURDENED MOST WAS MOLTRES.
VAPOREON: What the hell does that have to do with anything?
RESHIRAM: PATIENCE.
RESHIRAM: EACH TRUTH IS MADE UP OF ALL OTHERS IN TURN.
RESHIRAM: THIS PATH WILL LEAD YOU TO THE BEST UNDERSTANDING.
VAPOREON: Right. Sorry.
RESHIRAM: WHEN THE GREAT WEATHER WAR CONCLUDED, HEATRAN AND LUGIA WERE BURDENED EVEN MORE THAN MOLTRES.
RESHIRAM: THE LOSS OF KYOGRE FORCED THE GOD INTENDED ONLY FOR THE WAVES TO GUARD THE ENTIRE OCEAN.
RESHIRAM: MOLTRES WAS ALREADY AMONG THE MOST OVERWORKED GODS, AND ITS FATHER WAS NOW MANY TIMES STRICTER.
RESHIRAM: WHEN THE LEGENDARY BEASTS WERE BORN, ZAPDOS AND ARTICUNO'S ROLES WERE EASED BY THE EXTRA HELP.
RESHIRAM: MOLTRES RECEIVED NO SUCH HELP, AND SO LUGIA'S DISPOSITION SOURED FURTHER.
VAPOREON: Wait, weren't Moltres and Entei in love? Why didn't it help?
RESHIRAM: EVEN WHEN THIS RELATIONSHIP FORMED, IT COULD NOT.
RESHIRAM: THE PLANET WAS DANGEROUSLY UNSTABLE WITHOUT GROUDON.
RESHIRAM: ALL OF ENTEI'S POWER WAS NEEDED TO CONTROL THE WORLD'S VOLCANOES.
RESHIRAM: THIS RELATIONSHIP WAS TRULY LOVING, AND MOLTRES RARELY RESENTED ENTEI FOR ITS INABILITY TO HELP.
RESHIRAM: HOWEVER, THE STRESS AND MALAISE CONTINUED TO RISE. AS SUCH, IT TOOK A SECOND LOVER.
VAPOREON: Ah. Victini mentioned that. Moltres really was cheating on it, then.
RESHIRAM: YOU MISUNDERSTAND.
RESHIRAM: GODS DO NOT VIEW RELATIONSHIPS THE WAY MOST MORTALS DO.
RESHIRAM: IT WAS NOT THE INTIMACY MOLTRES HID FROM ENTEI. IT WAS THE ABUSE.
VAPOREON: ...oh. Oh no.
VAPOREON: Please... please tell me it wasn't me. Please tell me it- it wasn't her.
RESHIRAM: I AM SORRY. THE ABUSE WAS MUTUAL.
RESHIRAM: BOTH TRIED AT TIMES TO END THE RELATIONSHIP. NEITHER COULD BRING THEMSELVES TO.
RESHIRAM: MOLTRES HAD NO OTHER OUTLET FOR ITS ANGER AND SELF-LOATHING.
RESHIRAM: SUICUNE HAD NO OTHER COMPANION HER BOUTS OF DEPRESSION DID NOT DRIVE AWAY.
RESHIRAM: IF IT BRINGS YOU PEACE, THE TWO DID LOVE EACH OTHER. THEY SIMPLY COULD NOT TEMPER THEMSELVES ENOUGH FOR THAT TO LAST.
RESHIRAM: IN THEN END, IT WAS-
VAPOREON: I've. I've heard enough.
VAPOREON: Thanks, Reshiram. I... need to be alone.
RESHIRAM: VERY WELL. BEST OF LUCK, VAPOREON.
RESHIRAM: MAY THE TRUTH STAND WHEN YOU CANNOT.

 

[val-triplicate]

What is your name?​ Darkrai. What is your role?​ I help govern the realm of dreams, and I punish those who would use their power to manipulate or enslave others. I assure you, I am kinder than I sound. Most nightmares are not of my own design. What was your relationship to Suicune?​ Suicune suffered from frequent nightmares, but violently threatened me when I once offered to assist. I did not offer again. What would you like your relationship with me to be?​ I simply wish to see you thrive. What do you think about immortality?​ It is a difficult burden to bear, but it is by no means unmanageable. The mind is flexible when carefully maintained. Do you wish to attend the wedding?​ I would be honored, but I understand if my domain makes me an ill choice for such a happy occasion. Do not worry about offending me. If so, would you bring a gift? (Gifts are not mandatory.)​ I could offer a selection of therapeutic nightmares, if you wish. One overcomes their issues best by facing them, and I have experience in this that others lack.

What is your name?​ Uh. Blastoise? What is your role?​ Blastoise @ Leftovers - Rapid Spin - Scald - Roar - Foresight What was your relationship to Suicune?​ I think I might have been given this as a prank. What would you like your relationship with me to be?​ It says “From Vaporeon” on the envelope. Is that the one that kicked my ass a month ago? I was mad for a week or two, but I don’t really care anymore. What do you think about immortality?​ Am I being punked??? Do you wish to attend the wedding?​ Congratulations? I guess so?? If so, would you bring a gift? (Gifts are not mandatory.)​ What the hell is going on...

 

[val-triplicate]

Two sides per hallway, five doors per side. Who knew how many hallways were in this place – Vaporeon paid no attention as she scrambled down one. She had to get somewhere safe, somewhere she could unpack what she'd just learned. It wasn't her, she knew it wasn't her, but... Not yet. Get somewhere first, break down second.

Vaporeon kicked open a door that felt right and stumbled into the cave beyond. The frozen floor felt comfortable, but a glance upwards put an end to that. She wasn't alone.

VAPOREON: AAAH!
VAPOREON: I- I'm sorry. I didn't mean to intrude.
ARTICUNO: Oh – my apologies. I did not intend to startle you.

That voice... Vaporeon let out a weak whine despite herself. Why did it feel so familiar?

ARTICUNO: You are... Suicune, correct?
ARTICUNO: You look very different now.
VAPOREON: I'm not. I'm not her, I promise.
ARTICUNO: Oh. My condolences, then.
VAPOREON: Your... why? She was awful. She- she was an abusive murderer.
VAPOREON: I'm nothing but- nngh.

She bit her tongue and made herself as small as she could.

ARTICUNO: ...maybe so. I did not truly know her.
ARTICUNO: Yet... I could always tell she was suffering.
ARTICUNO: I had long hoped she would find her peace.
VAPOREON: And now... it's just me. My condolences, too.
VAPOREON: Do you- do you know how she felt about you?
ARTICUNO: I don't know what you mean.
ARTICUNO: Are you alright?

Vaporeon's heart beat like it was desperately trying to escape. She clenched her eyes shut and begged it to slow the fuck down. She was a new person, and Articuno was a stranger. Those were the facts; her treacherous emotions weren't going to get the better of her this time.

VAPOREON: Fine. I'm fine. Just great.
VAPOREON: Sorry, it's just been... a long day already.
VAPOREON: I promise I'm not her, but there's more of her left than I thought.
VAPOREON: I wish there was none.
ARTICUNO: I see. Am I burdening you? I could go elsewhere.
VAPOREON: NO! I mean, you're fine. Thanks.
VAPOREON: Maybe you could just... talk about yourself for a bit?
ARTICUNO: Myself... I'm afraid there is not much to say about me.
ARTICUNO: I guard the mountains. I keep avalanches manageable.
ARTICUNO: When all is said and done, I return here to roost.
ARTICUNO: Perhaps twice in a century, I receive a challenger.
ARTICUNO: There is little else to my life than that. I am sorry if that was uninteresting.
VAPOREON: Not at all... what about friends, though? You must have tons.
ARTICUNO: Friends? No, I'm afraid I do not.
ARTICUNO: The life of a god is lonely already, and now without my sibling...
VAPOREON: I'm. I'm still really sorry for your loss. Even if it wasn't me.
ARTICUNO: I understand, Vaporeon.
ARTICUNO: Suicune... she was troubled. I do not hate her.
ARTICUNO: I just mourn. For it and for her.
ARTICUNO: I mourn for you as well, Vaporeon.
ARTICUNO: I am sorry that they died, and thus left you in such a position.

Vaporeon opened her eyes. Articuno was stunningly beautiful, but she could finally see past that. Her eyes spoke of serenity, but a deep sadness hid behind it. A deep, familiar sadness. Vaporeon moved closer, and Articuno laid a wing across her.

VAPOREON: It's so scary... I have to be everything for everyone.
VAPOREON: None of these idiots have ever even tried being happy.
VAPOREON: Everything could be so easy if they'd just let it be...
ARTICUNO: You have to understand, Vaporeon.
ARTICUNO: Forever is a very long time. Very little can last the test of it.
ARTICUNO: We cannot simply move and live as mortals do.
VAPOREON: That's bullshit... I'm sorry, but it is.
VAPOREON: What is it you're so afraid of that you can't get out and make friends?
ARTICUNO: ...if you do not know, I should not tell you.
VAPOREON: Come the fuck on... I thought we were past the cryptic shit now.
VAPOREON: What could possibly... oh.
VAPOREON: You mean Victini.
ARTICUNO: Yes. I mean the Weather War. The loss of three of our kind.
ARTICUNO: It is why we all must accept challengers.
ARTICUNO: It is not to provide for mortals. What use is a god of snow to them?
ARTICUNO: It is merely to keep us away from each other as much as possible.
VAPOREON: You aren't allowed to visit each other?
ARTICUNO: We are. Some of us do. It is simply infrequent.
VAPOREON: Well... you should. Please.
VAPOREON: I need you to be happy. I would give anything to see you smile.

Articuno stepped back. She stared closely, but just as Vaporeon was sure she'd put the pieces together, the door opened once more.

HOOPA: HEY! CONFERENCE IN THIRTY MINUTES!
ARTICUNO: Oh. Of course, Hoopa.
ARTICUNO: Thank you for the kind words, Vaporeon, but I must go.
ARTICUNO: I will give it some thought.
VAPOREON: Please... please do.

Vaporeon sat down to rest. She hadn't even gotten a chance to process what she'd learned, but with how much that had taken out of her... she didn't have it in her anymore.

Suicune must have loved her so much. Her heart still cried out for Articuno to return, but she pushed it down. Another love for another time. She was done being Suicune, apologizing for Suicune, pining after the life Suicune would have wanted. As Vaporeon stood up, she made up her mind with euphoric finality. This life was hers, and hers alone.

 

[val-triplicate]

What is your name?​ Terapagos! What is your role?​ God of Possibilities! God of What Could Have Been! Mostly everyone just makes me summon things from timelines where they're less lazy, but I do a few other things too. What was your relationship to Suicune?​ We didn't really get to know each other in this timeline. I marry her in a few, but not in as many as with most legendaries. What would you like your relationship with me to be?​ I'd love you get to know this you better! You're always a fascinating case. Congratulations on proposing to Mawile –that's the marriage that goes well the most often! What do you think about immortality?​ Hm... I don't usually consider mortality much anymore. I've got more perspective than most, since I'm kinda the same across timelines. Celebi is still probably older than I am by now, though. Overall, I'd give it a 7/10! Do you wish to attend the wedding?​ Yes! You better invite me, after what I'm getting you two. It took me a decade to find the first time. If so, would you bring a gift? (Gifts are not mandatory.)​ The gift will be there when you get home! Don't worry, you'll see it. :)

What is your name?​ KYUREM. What is your role?​ GOD OF STRENGTH AND POWER. What was your relationship to Suicune?​ POSITIVE. HER STRENGTH AND RAGE IMPRESSED ME. What would you like your relationship with me to be?​ POSITIVE. YOU ARE WEAK AND HELPLESS, YET YOU PERSIST AND YOU SUCCEED. THIS IMPRESSES ME. What do you think about immortality?​ IT IS LIMITLESS POWER, BUT IT IS NOT THE STRONGEST. YOU HAVE WITHIN YOU POTENTIAL FOR STRENGTH GREATER THAN MINE. GRASP IT, VAPOREON. MAKE THE WORLD YOURS. Do you wish to attend the wedding?​ I WILL BE ATTENDING. If so, would you bring a gift? (Gifts are not mandatory.)​ I WILL MAKE YOU STRONGER.

 

[val-triplicate]

Massive. Everything was overwhelmingly massive. The room, the attendees, the table Vaporeon had to stretch to see over. Celebi had provided her with a booster seat, at least, but it was overwhelming too. Just getting atop it felt like climbing the stacks in Magnet Pass.

She leafed through her notes. Lugia would be up next, after the lengthy preamble she wasn't pretending to listen to. Then her, then... Zapdos? Shit, she was going to try to talk to him in advance. Another damn wildcard to worry about. Finally, Vaporeon, then Lugia, then Hoopa.

DARKRAI: Thus ends the reading of last year's minutes.
KORAIDON: UGH. Fucking finally!
DARKRAI: If he will take the podium, the first speaker is Lugia.

Lugia stretched and launched from his seat. Powerful winds battered the room and knocked Vaporeon flat on her ass. She grit her teeth and took it. No one else seemed to even notice, but the god arrived at the stand to a chorus of boos regardless.

LUGIA: Thank you, Darkrai. I appreciate your civility.
DARKRAI: Of course. Please, however, do not mistake it for affection.
DARKRAI: I am no more pleased with your antics than the others.
LUGIA: The others could learn a lesson from you regardless.

He cleared his throat. Vaporeon's teeth rattled from the sound.

LUGIA: NOW.
LUGIA: I have been asked to speak first, to explain or apologize for my actions.
LUGIA: I will not be doing either.
LUGIA: Rather, I wish only to give a warning.
LUGIA: The remnants of Suicune will doubtless beg for a return to immortality.
LUGIA: This may be tempting. Our numbers are dwindling.
LUGIA: My advice is to remember WHY they are doing so. That is all.

Fucking bitch... Vaporeon glowered at him as he returned to his seat. A portal appeared before her, and she composed herself. Deep breaths, in, in, out. She stepped through.

VAPOREON: E-excuse me. I think it's my turn now, right?
VAPOREON: Okay then. I'll be up front. Yeah, I do plan to ask for godhood.
VAPOREON: Not just yet though! I have more I want to say, and I get two goes.
VAPOREON: My first request to all of you: please don't think of me as Suicune.
VAPOREON: Maybe I'll be one soon. Maybe I won't. But I'm not her, and I never will be.
VAPOREON: She was a monster. Abusive, reclusive, and dangerous.
VAPOREON: I'm glad she's gone, and I'm sure you all are too.

She flipped through her notes just to calm her nerves.

VAPOREON: She wasn't all bad, though. People did love her.
VAPOREON: Maybe she didn't deserve to die.

The crowd began to chatter in dissent. Vaporeon raised her voice to preempt the impending shouts.

VAPOREON: BUT! It's- it's not about deserving, is my point.
VAPOREON: We have responsibilities to each other.
VAPOREON: We have responsibilities to the entire world.
VAPOREON: We have responsibilities to ourselves.
VAPOREON: Suicune couldn't handle that. Deserving or not, she couldn't cut it.
VAPOREON: Well, I can. Ask anyone I've met. I've come out stronger for it all.
VAPOREON: That's- that's all I have to say for now. Thanks.

A portal appeared, and she dove for it. Darkrai took the stage to prep for Zapdos. This time, Vaporeon didn't even bother climbing the booster seat. She just hid behind it as the lightning god took his place.

ZAPDOS: Hey.
ZAPDOS: I'll go ahead and say what half of you are clearly thinking.
ZAPDOS: Suicune got off too easy. My fucking sibling is dead, and I still fantasize about wringing that sniveling bitch's neck for it.
ZAPDOS: Yeah, you, Vaporeon. Don't think you can hide from me behind your little baby stool.
ZAPDOS: ...that said. I'm not up here to make threats. I could do that anywhere.
ZAPDOS: I'm here to talk about my sister, and my dad. And my sib-in-law, Entei.
ZAPDOS: As much as it pains me to say this...
ZAPDOS: She's not Suicune. Anyone paying any attention at all can see that.
ZAPDOS: I ran into my sister on the way here, and she was smiling.
ZAPDOS: SMILING. Can any of you remember her ever doing that? I can't.
ZAPDOS: I talked to my dad before he made his speech, too.
ZAPDOS: He asked me... he asked me to go easy on her. He demanded I not tell anyone.
ZAPDOS: Obviously I don't give a shit what he wants anymore, but it's telling.
ZAPDOS: Articuno feels hope. Lugia feels restraint. Entei is moving on, when Moltres was all it really lived for.
ZAPDOS: Do we punish that? Lugia's the one who killed her, and like she said.
ZAPDOS: It isn't about what she deserves. It's about what we all need.
ZAPDOS: If Vaporeon cares about us, after what we put her through...
ZAPDOS: Then she's better than all of you wretches combined.
ZAPDOS: You stood by while Lugia drove them to kill each other.
ZAPDOS: Vaporeon wouldn't have. I say we give her whatever the hell she wants.