All That's Left - Billycorn - Pocket Monsters

Chapter 1: Roadtrip

Chapter Text

Brother, it is wonderful to be alive.

Warmth trickled from the air, as if chasing the fading sun over the distant horizon. The leaves of a dead plant rustled with the passing of the evening breeze. The wind was slow, yet an orange pot-plant shook and nearly toppled. The dead plant slowly rose and a Phantump popped out, its ghostly body lifting from the warm soil.

Phantump yawned long and loud, smacking its lips and surveying the city below. From the balcony of the high apartment building the Pokémon below looked like Joltiks. The city skyline was silhouetted against the warm oranges of the setting sun. The din of traffic rose on the wind and Phantump nodded appreciatively before floating lazily into the apartment.

Phantump drifted past the couch, ignoring the Sableye watching television, and began poking its head into the fridge. “Where’s my sushi?”

“Can’t hear,” hollered Sableye.

Frowning, Phantump drifted upwards, unsurprised to find Sableye grinning broadly over the edge of the counter. “Where’s my leftover sushi?”

Sableye flipped onto the counter and leapt onto the fridge. Hanging off one door, it yanked the other open and started rifling through the fridge. “Did Flip take it?”

Phantump sighed and looked pointedly at Sableye.

“Hey,” snapped Sableye, “Vine, it wasn’t me.”

Waving it off, Vine dove into the fridge, pulled free a jar of Aguav Berry jam, and began smearing it across a croissant. “This’ll do.”

Sableye shrugged, dropped from the fridge, and scurried back to the couch. “You working tonight?”

Vine chewed his croissant slowly, shaking his head. “I quit,” he grunted through a mouthful.

Sableye’s brows shot upwards and his grin slipped into a toothy frown. “Why?”

When Vine only gestured vaguely, Sableye shrugged. “Ah well, take it from me, the great Nick! That place was only holding you back.”

Vine nodded but didn’t reply. Nick went to say more when several dull thuds came from the door. Grunting, Nick hurried over and whipped the door open. A Wooper stood with a distant smile on his face.

“Flip, what’cha doing?” Nick scratched at his chin with a long shadowy finger.

Flip waddled in, nudged the door closed and stared into Nick’s jewelled eyes. “They fixed the door today.”

“Yeah,” Nick nodded, hopping from foot to foot. “What, you don’t like the colour?”

Flip blinked slowly, then waved at the door with one foot. “You see a problem here?”

Nick’s eyes glinted as he searched the door, but nothing seemed unusual. Raising his hands innocently, Nick shook his head.

“He doesn’t have any hands,” Vine called from the kitchen.

Nick searched the door again, noticing the shiny round knobs. “Ah. That’s rough, buddy.”

Flip sighed and shuffled past. Leaping onto the couch, he squirmed, stretching restlessly. “You got one of the few doors I cannot open. You’re paying for them to replace it again.”

Nick came flying into the living room as he leapt from the entryway, flipping past Vine’s head.

“Stop, I coulda dropped my croissant!”

Nick settled on the armrest, ignoring Vine’s distress. “Come on, you know I don’t have any money.”

“Then get a job,” Flip replied distantly.

“Ain’t gonna happen, cap’n. You guys have jobs and you’re miserable.”

“Had,” corrected Vine.

Flip turned slowly, his eyes locking onto Nick’s. Flip’s ever-present smile was unnerving and the Wooper knew it. “I’m happy. I’m very happy.”

Throwing his hands up, Nick tumbled backwards off the armrest and settled on the floor. “You’re not funny, stop telling jokes.”

Vine floated between the two, obscuring Nick’s view and blocking Flip’s scathing retort. “What do you wanna do with your life?”

Nick’s eyes flickered as his brows furrowed. “No,” he poked Vine with a ghostly finger. “What do you wanna do with your life?”

Vine punched the air. “Find good soil!”

“Go, live your dream!” Scowling, Nick rolled backwards onto his feet and skulked away. “Send a postcard for all I care.”

Vine nibbled on his croissant, watching Sableye’s retreating form. When his food was gone, Vine turned and lowered himself into the couch until only his head rested atop the cushion. Flip lay outstretched, his eyes closed.

After a long silence, Vine said, “Flip, we’re dying here.”

“You’re a ghost type.”

“You know what I mean.”

Sighing, Flip rolled onto his side, opened one lazy eye and stared out the window. “What do you propose we do?”

“There’s a Pokemon named Xatu. He lives at the Hill of the Ancients, by Pokemon Square.”

“The town on the coastline?”

Vine nodded. “Supposedly, Xatu tells the future and guides people to where they should go. They say he even helped the rescue team that stopped the meteor all those years ago.”

Flip’s gaze was distant, his mind seemingly far away.

“Flip,” said Vine, his voice heavy. “I’m going. You and Nick are welcome to join me. It’s been awhile since any of us were alone, why split up now?”

When Flip didn’t respond, Vine nodded to himself and slowly began to drift away. Though after a moment, an exaggerated sigh came from the couch.

“Alright,” said Flip. “I’ll pack my things.”

A large grin split Vine’s face. Floating in circles he waved his tiny arms and cheered, “Flip, we are going on a roadtrip!”

Chapter 2: Backflip

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Nick scurried along the path, a brown knapsack bouncing on his back. He flicked his head side to side, searching eagerly. ‘Where’s the Xatu?’

‘That way,’ answered Vine, pointing down the crossroads, to the left.

The trio had left the bustling metropolis of Celadine city several days ago and traveled south, to Pokemon square. They had spent yesterday evening in town, gathering information about their destination, and more.

The townsfolk were glad to talk of their town’s proud history. Despite it’s small size, the town boasted the continent’s pelipper post-office. The town was built upon small businesses which thrived with rescue teams often travelling through.

Flip’s gaze lingered on a long, tall building, by the centre of the crossroads. The building’s entrance was shaped like a giant Cubone skull. An extension and a several upper-stories had been added over the years. Apparently, the rescue team that stopped the meteor called this place home, when they were alive. After the duo had passed, their base become a hub for local rescue teams. It had a small medical centre, mess hall, storage facilities, accomodation, and more.

Flip’s heart ached at the sight, but his eyes remained unblinking and his smile, ever-present, if slightly forced.

Nick snapped his fingers in front of Flip’s face. ‘Anyone home?’

Flip’s eyes shifted to stare lifelessly at Nick, but the Sableye merely shrugged and began wandering down the path. Vine floated along behind him and Flip silently hurried to catchup, falling in step beside them.

The journey soon became filled with mindless chatter as the countryside rolled by. The gentle path weaving through the forest eventually faded away. Lush trees were replaced by arid shrubbery. Mossy boulders turned to crumbling stone, and the soft ground turned sandy, and hot.

After some time, the trio came to the foot of The Hill of the Ancients. A large yellow hill, not quite a mountain. It was tall, but not particularly steep. Though the arid shrubbery provided no shelter from the relentless midday sun.

‘We’re climbing that?’ groaned Nick.

Vine nodded. ‘We’re almost there.’

Flip wandered around the base of the hill for a moment, glancing at the nearby knolls. ‘Vine, let me see the map.’

Fishing the map from his bag, Vine held it out for Flip to see. After studying it for a moment, Flip nodded. ‘Follow me.’

Nick and Vine shared a curious look before following after the Wooper. Edging around the side of the hill, they found a thin river running through a gorge.

‘This way should be easier,’ Flip said, nodding with approval and diving into the water.

Vine grinned widely, greedily lapping up water. ‘Secret tunnel! Secret tunnel! Through the mountains~’

‘Not a tunnel,’ sneered Nick, scuttling past, into the shade by the mountainside.

Thinking for a moment, Vine nodded and resumed his song. ‘Secret canyon! Secret canyon! Through the mountains~’

Vine continued to sing as they trekked through the gorge. Between the shade from the mountains, the cool river, and the scenery, it was a pleasant walk, despite the persistent heat.

After some time, Flip steered them onto a narrow ledge, weaving its way up the hillside. The hike wasn’t steep, but the gravel underfoot was loose, and Flip stumbled, falling onto his face. Vine hurried to help his friend, but Flip stood and continued walking without complaint, or frown.

Eventually, they came to the peak. A green bird Pokemon stood by the cliff’s edge, watching the sun dipping behind the mountain range. Mountains sprung from the earth, proud and mighty, glowing red with the sunset, like jewels in a king’s crown.

Nick scurried past Xatu, sitting on the cliff’s edge and dangling his feet over the abyss. Noticing how the mountains looked as if they were ablaze, Nick sighed. ‘Wish I could start fires like that.’

Xatu’s large green eyes slid to focus on the Sableye. ‘Please, don’t.’

‘Excuse me, Xatu?’ Vine said, floating beside the bird Pokemon. ‘I was wondering if you could help us.’

A smile quirked at Xatu’s beak. ‘You and everyone else. Though, I suppose you are particularly lost.’

Nick’s laugh erupted and he nearly toppled off the cliff. ‘Lost? No. No, no, no. Not lost, just empty.’

Xatu raised a brow, looking curiously upon Nick.

‘Have you ever heard that song?’ Nick waggled his finger. ‘Hey, how you doing-‘

‘Well, I’m doing just fine, I lied, I’m dying inside~’ finished Vine.

Xatu chuckled, shaking her head. ‘I’m afraid, I cannot help the empty.’ Xatu looked meaningfully at Nick. ‘Some things cannot be taught. We must learn them ourselves. Those things can fade, but they never truly disappear.’

Vine’s gaze fell to the dirt. ‘So, we came for nothing?’

Xatu’s brows raised and she stretched a wing towards Vine. ‘You aren’t empty. Quite the opposite, in fact. You’ll live three lives before anyone’s the wiser. After that, I wish you luck. As for you.’ Xatu turned, eyeing Flip. ‘Go home.’

Flip’s smile flickered for a moment. ‘Back to Celadine.’ It wasn’t a question. It was refusal.

‘Don’t twist my words.’ Xatu’s eyes narrowed and she looked harshly upon Flip. ‘If he could see you now.’

Vine glanced at the sun, it hadn’t set any further, but it seemed darker somehow. Then, he noticed the rigidity in Flip’s body. The Wooper was smiling, but there was no humour there.

Xatu’s stare grew softer, pitiful. ‘They say demons run when a good mon goes to war. Flip, would demons still run from you?’

Silently, Flip turned and began walking back down the mountain. Vine spun in circles, glancing back and forth between Xatu and the Wooper.

Xatu smiled, and called after the retreating Wooper. ‘Remember, lead is not magnetic!’

Vine spared a baffled look at Xatu before floating after his friend.

Nick rolled backwards to stand beside Xatu. ‘That was cold. I respect it.’

Xatu sighed as she watched them leave. She’d seen many things throughout her long life; multiple generations of heroes, great calamities, and simpler things too. Her power of foresight had improved the longer she lived and the more she saw. Still, that didn’t mean her power was perfect. Perhaps, this time, Flip would prove her wrong.

*****

Vine sipped at his drink, thinking sullenly on the day. Vine had known Flip nearly two years now. The Wooper had simply shown up one day, and he’d been in Vine’s life ever since. Flip had never spoken about his past, not where he’d come from, nor where he was going. Now, Flip slurped a fine whisky through a straw in a small bar, late at night.

Nick scurried over to the table, two mugs in hand. Jumping up, he sat on the table edge and threw back a mug of brown, strong-smelling liquid. It burned his throat and he sighed appreciatively.

‘What now?’ Nick’s question hung in the air, a spark to be nurtured, or smothered.

‘We go home,’ Flip said firmly, glancing over the top of his glass. Wooper’s torsoes aren’t very long and Flip’s head didn’t reach much above the table. His feet dangled high above the ground.

Nick’s brows wiggled curiously. ‘And where would that be, pray tell?’

‘Celadine.’ Flip’s voice was firm, much like his smile.

Vine shook his head. ‘Flip-‘

‘Or! And hear me out here.’ Nick stood upon the table, waving his mug and stumbling slightly.

‘No arson,’ groaned Flip.

‘Killjoy. What I was actually going to say is, let’s rob a bank!’

Flip laughed, only lightly, but it was there. Vine smiled at his friend, though couldn’t help but notice how heavy Flip looked, how tired.

Flip shook his head. ‘No, we,’ he paused suddenly, his brow furrowing and eyes growing distant. For a moment, it seemed as if Flip were juggling a memory and a very bad idea. The moment passed, and Flip returned to the present. ‘No, we’re not robbing a bank.’

Nick nodded solemnly, and winked. ‘Right, we are not robbing a bank.’

The quiet bar grew quieter as the door creaked on its hinges. A tall Pokemon stood in the entry, silhouetted by the streetlamp’s dusty golden glow. It shuffled forward, taking no discernible steps. It wore a large pointed hat. The Pokemon was clearly in the wrong genre; it would’ve been much more at home in a western. Though, I suppose a bar-brawl is about to ensue.

Stepping from the shadows, the Pokemon, a Hatterene, searched the bar, it’s gaze passing coolly over the patrons. It’s eyes settling on Flip, Hatterene dashed closer, it’s eyes ablaze.

‘Keep it down,’ hissed Hatterene.

Flip nodded glumly. ‘Sorry, I’ll be leaving in the morning.’

‘You better be going bloody far because damn.’ Hatterene dropped into a seat. ‘Should I drink with you or beat the life out of you? I’ve honestly no idea.’

Flip scoffed and shrugged. ‘I’ll drink to that.’

Hatterene thought for a moment before nodding. ‘So will I.’

What, no bar fight? That’s not right. Hang on, let me check the script. Duh duh duh, then that, ah, here we are.

Nick moved to drain his second mug, but Hatterene swiped the tankard from him. She swirled the cup round, watching the drink whirlpool. ‘On second thought, I choose violence.’ Hatterene tilted her head, downed the drink, and swung the mug at Flip’s head. ‘Wood hammer!’

Flip merely raised his brows as the mug splintered against his skin, and Hatterene’s follow through sent him flying across the room. Flip crashed into an Octillery, slamming it into the bar. Growling, Octillery spun in it’s seat, pouring a bottle of booze into it’s mouth. Octillery spat it’s drink like bullets and the fight spread.

His eyes glimmering, Nick formed a small will’o wisp in front of Octillery. The liquid bullets ignited and Nick had turned the water-type into a flamethrower. Cackling with delight, Nick scampered throughout the bar, narrowly dodging the attacks and spreading flames. I kept Nick from arson for one whole chapter. That’s a poor personal best, but hey, gotta start somewhere.

Fidgeting with his hands, Vine hovered closer to the Snivy behind the bar. ‘Can I get a waffle? Can I please get a waffle?’

Snivy sighed, not looking up from the mug she was cleaning. ‘Same crap, different day. Ty! We got another fire.’

A Buizel bounded in from the back rooms, a tea towel slung over his shoulder. He leapt over the bar, knelt beside the flames, and began asking them very politely to go burn somewhere else.

Slamming her head into the bar, Snivy muttered to herself. ‘In another life.’

Inching away, Vine grabbed Flip from where he moodily lay on the floor, and pulled Nick down from the table where he cackled. ‘What am I going to do with you two?’ Vine dragged them from the bar, and down the street.

‘Just don’t leave me,’ Flip muttered.

‘I already told you what I want,’ growled Nick.

‘We’re not robbing a bank.’ Flip said, rolling his eyes

Nick crossed his arms. ‘You never let me do anything fun.’

‘You just committed arson.’

Nick and Flip argued tirelessly and Vine groaned inwardly. He was desperate to shut them up, and I was unsure how to finish the conversation. Thus, Vine dragged their sorry behinds through town, eventually coming to a river.

‘Here on the air continent we like to treat people with respect, backflip!’ Vine yelled, tossing Flip and Nick through the air, into the river.

Flip watched the sky grow hazier, more distant as he sank. It reminded him of another time he’d gotten farther away from the light. Closing his eyes, he let the memories, and the water, wash over him. Settling on the riverbed, he stretched out, and went to sleep.

Notes:

-Author’s Note-
If you don’t understand the interaction between Flip and Hatterene then open your SwSh Pokedex to entry #242. It is logical to assume Pokemon carry over some traits during evolution, thus Hatterene’s violence is purely logical.
Violence was the question, and the answer was YES.

Chapter 3: Birdstrike

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

‘And they were roommates.’

Flip woke with a long yawn. His eyes fluttering open, he stared into the morning sun, beginning to arc higher in the sky. Groaning, he rolled, and fell. A shout had half escaped his mouth when he hit the water. He panicked for a moment, before shaking his head and swimming to the surface.

A Lapras paddled along, chatting with Vine. The Phantump sat atop Lapras’ back, Nick beside him.

Swimming nearer, Flip rolled onto his back, swishing his powerful tail through the water. ‘Vine, where are we?’

Vine stopped halfway through a story, glancing at Flip as if noticing him for the first time. ‘Oh, good morning. How’d you sleep?’

‘Fine, I guess.’ Flip’s eyes flickered between Vine and Lapras. ‘What’s going on?’

‘Oh, oh!’ Vine waved his little arms excitedly, leaning so far out he nearly fell off Lapras’ back. ‘I’ve decided, we’re going on an adventure!’

His expression going carefully blank, Flip breathed a deep sigh. ‘What for?’

Vine nodded sagely, as if he’d expected the question. Naturally, he had. He is my favourite and thus has many abilities some consider to be unnatural.

‘We’re all searching for something. I’m going to find good soil.’ Vine gestured at Nick. ‘Nick wants something to satiate his existenial dread and overwhelming emptiness. What do you want?’

His voice taking a hard edge, Flip said, ‘there’s no point. It’s already gone.’

His brows furrowing, Vine nodded slowly. ‘Well then, if you could go anywhere you wanted, where would you go?’

Flip scoffed, this was an easy question. ‘To see a dead man.’

‘Does Vine not count?’ Nick picked at his nails, not so much as glancing at Flip.

Flip rolled his eyes, but didn’t respond. The memories had grown a lump in his throat, and no words would come.

As the silence stretched uncomfortably, Vine cleared his throat. ‘Thanks again for the lift, Lapras.’

A grin split Lapras’ face and she shook her head. ‘My pleasure. Now please, don’t stop on my account. I am loving this drama~’

‘Well then, you’ll love this.’ Vine jumped from Lapras’ shell and moved to float alongside the waterhorse.

As Vine rambled, Nick picked at Lapras’ shell, watching the sun. He could hear a flock of Wingull’s nearby, their incessant cawing keeping him from a mid-morning nap. The salty breeze and bright light pounded away at his head. If only there were a nice cave nearby. Cool, rough stone, damp air and mildew. It would be tidy and have endlessly twisting tunnels. Full of these warm thoughts, Nick’s mind wandered far away and he didn’t notice the hours tick by.

At this point in our story, I would like to propose an entirely coincidental idea. Nick is not unlike an odd little creature you’ve likely heard of. Short, with a large appetite and appreciation of a clean home, a hole in the hillside. Nick is like a hobbit. Indeed, Nick reminds me of the Sackville-Baggins. Generally disagreeable and greedy, but not altogether sinister (discounting his appreciation for fire). At least, not yet. Sometimes all it takes is a push. A little chaos masquerading as adventure.

It was afternoon by the time Lapras pulled into port. The docks were bustling with grand sailing ships that had come in bearing goods and passengers. Vine’s jaw hung open and he watched the ships in admiration. Their mighty sails were furled, knots held fast and the wood stood strong. A scowling Aipom scrubbed oysters from the hull.

Nick grabbed Vine by the horn, dragging him away. They weaved through cargo and sailors, moving quickly to get out of the way.

The old stone docks opened up into a large plaza, tents and shopfronts setup along the shore. Beyond them, streets twisted, leading into a large city. Celadine was one of the few cities that had built upwards. This one, Ambree as Flip had heard it called, spread outwards, starting at the beach and stretching into the surrounding countryside, cross hills and valleys. The buildings were low and clustered tightly together. Bunting hung between houses, flags billowing in the wind. The yellowed sandstone brick seemed to glimmer in the sunlight.

‘So,’ Flip glanced around, getting his bearings. ‘What now, Vine?’

Nick waved his hand excitedly. ‘I crave violence!’

Vine rubbed at his chin, his brows furrowing. ‘I don’t know… I don’t really have a plan, or a map.’

Flip’s brows furrowed. ‘You had one yesterday.’

‘I dropped it in the ocean when I threw you two in…’

‘We could start a barfight? That was fun.’ Nick wriggled his fingers, eyes hungrily searching for something unseen.

Flip spoke slowly, as if talking to a child. ‘Doesn’t matter. A map is only useful if you know where you’re going.’

Vine ignored the comment, seemingly distracted. Following Vine’s gaze, Flip turned to find a large Kangaskhan standing behind him. How the Pokemon had snuck up on him, Flip didn’t know, not that he really cared.

‘Flip!’ Roared the Kangaskhan. ‘Ah knew I recognised that tone! All rude and prickly like.’

His head tilting, Flip tapped his foot, thinking a moment. ‘Baz?’

Baz tossed his head back, a laugh rumbling deep in his gut and sounding above the din. ‘At’s right! How’ya been, mate?’

Squinting, Nick pointed at Baz. ‘What’s wrong with him?’

Flip smirked and scoffed in turn. ‘He’s from that place down south.’

‘Down under, ya mean!’ Baz crossed his arms, puffing his chest out. ‘I’m from Straya!’

‘Australia?’ Asked Vine.

“Yeaa, that’s what I said,’ answered Baz.

Nick laughed, wiping away an imaginary tear. ‘Australia’s not real. Everyone knows that.’

‘Oh, yeah?’ Baz poked Nick in the chest before showing his hand. ‘Then where’d I get this?’ A thick white scar ran across Baz’s hand and up his forearm. ‘We got Komala down there with fangs. They hide in the woods and drop on ya, tear ya to pieces. We call em drop bears.’

Flip looked disbelievingly at Baz, but eventually shook his head. ‘Baz, shouldn’t you be working or something?’

‘Oi, nah.’ Baz waved away the accusation, as if afraid it would bite him. ‘I been flat out like a Kecleon drinking. I’m on smoko. Come on, we got a couple Clauncher on the barbie.’

‘What?’ Vine asked, horrified.

‘Just an expression,’ chortled Baz.

Baz lead the way into town, zipping through side streets and back alleys, quickly coming to a small restuarant, tables spilling out onto the road. A small yet noisy group of Pokemon were clustered around vegetable skewers, grilling over a live flame. They cheered as Baz approached and shuffled over, making room in their circle.

Baz patted Flip’s back, gesturing for quiet. ‘Gents, these lads are gonna get our property back! In return, let’s feed em!’

The Pokemon roared again and quickly began pestering the trio with questions. Despite the ambush, Flip found himself enjoying the moment. The company could be worse, and the food was good.

During the meal, Baz explained that someone had stolen precious cargo off a vessel the other day. They were under pressure to retrieve the goods, and fast.

‘Shouldn’t you ask the police, or the Guild?’ Vine fiddled with a skewer and curiously watched Kangaskhan.

Baz nodded. ‘We have, but there’s no telling how long it’ll take. Flip here has main character vibes, he can handle it.’

Flip scoffed at that. ‘Vine’s the hero. I’m just along for the ride.’

See what I did there? No, no, you didn’t. Bah, you’ll get it eventually.

Scratching at his chin, Baz shrugged. ‘Either way, you’ll be right. ‘Parently the crook’s up on Settler’s Ridge. You’re looking for a Delibird.’

Nick chuckled darkly, his teeth gnashing as he devoured the last vegetable skewer, skewer and all. ‘Finally, I get to hit something.’

Several hours later, having followed the rising coastline to the east, the trio came upon Settler’s Ridge. A high cliff stood towering above the ocean, waves roaring as they crashed below. Rolling green hills dotted the landscape, with the occasional cluster of trees. Several houses stood scattered about.

‘Where do we start looking?’ Vine spun in slow circles, taking everything in.

Nick picked at his teeth. ‘We don’t.’ Pulling a golden lump of rock from seemingly nowhere, Nick shined it with his furry elbow before tossing it towards several trees huddled together.

‘Where did you pull that from?’ Vine asked, his voice a mix of awe and horror.

Nick tapped his temple knowingly. ‘I’m not totally empty.’

A moment later, the trees rustled. The trio turned quickly, watching a blurry figure dash quickly from trees to bushes, across the land. It leapt down, grabbed the gold, and dashed back into the trees.

Nick charged forwards, leaping headlong into the branches. A Pokemon grunted as it was tackled from the treetops and thrown to the ground. Nick bounced off the ground and rolled several meters.

Hastily standing up, a Delibird glared at Nick. ‘Don’t try to stop me!’ She hissed.

Vine floated closer, smiling kindly. ‘Do or do not. There is no try.’

Her brows furrowing, Delibird shrugged vaguely before leaping. Flapping her tiny wings, she began hurrying away.

‘Prepare birdstrike!’ Yelled Vine, looking over his shoulder. ‘Ready!’

Flip bent low, stretching his tail out and nodding. Nick hurried over, stood on Flip’s tail and grinned madly.

‘Aim!’ Vine raised one arm. Flip shifted and pictured Delibird’s flight path.

Vine’s arm dropped and he watched with wild glee. ‘Fire!’

Flip threw himself forward, flicking his tail and sending Nick flying into the air. Like a bullet, Nick arced through the sky, spreading his arms as he came close to Delibird.

Beginning to fall, Nick landed on Delibird’s back and pulled her wings out wide. Screaming, Delibird steadily lost altitude. She crash landed roughly, sending Nick flying headlong into a tree.

Unfazed, Sableye leapt to his feet. ‘Successful birdstrike!’

Coughing, Delibird pulled herself to her feet. ‘You gremlins! Leave me alone!’

Flip strolled closer, stretching his neck. ‘Were you the one who stole goods from the shipyards?’

Notes:

-Author’s Note-
For Context, the worldbuilding is loosely based off the Super Mystery Dungeon map (with additional places). Except Australia exists. It’s already a fictional country so I see nothing wrong with putting it in this.

Chapter 4: Revolution

Chapter Text

After talking to Delibird for some time, she agreed to Flip’s offer of help and explained the situation. A small town further up in the mountains had been taken over by bandits.

The bandits had taken the townspeople’s food and money, and being secluded in the Snowbelle ranges, it wasn’t safe to leave without supplies, or guarantee of shelter from any storms that might arise.

So, the trio joined forces with Sapphire the Delibird in hopes of routing the bandits, and freeing the town. The journey began there, on Settler’s ridge, and and wound up into the Snowbelle ranges. Grassy hillocks gave way to sloping rocky plains which eventually morphed into towering grey spires of stone, dressed in white from partway up.

As the sun dipped behind the mountains and the night air grew chill, Vine began to shiver. Stopping below the snowfields, the team setup camp behind a rocky outcrop, affording them some shelter from the wind. They built a small fire, which Vine huddled around, though he was careful not to get too close. Sapphire and Flip kept their distance. Nick entertained himself by plunging his hands into some loose snow he’d collected, then passing them quickly through the flame.

‘You said the town was called Felure?’ Flip asked, glancing at Sapphire.

She jumped slightly and nodded. ‘Yes, it’s further up the mountain, and around the other side.’

Flip nodded, his eyes distant. ‘I’ve been there before. Passed through nearly four years ago now.’

‘Really?’ Sapphire chirped, the surprise evident in her voice. ‘We see a few people travelling from the caverns down towards the coast, but not many.’

‘Yeah, I didn’t stay long. There’s not much to see.’

Her fur bristling, Sapphire nodded. ‘It was much bigger once. We used to get lots of travelers, merchants, but since they opened the coastal road, we mostly get guild brats.’

Biting his lip, Flip nodded. Guilds could be a sensitive topic. Some, like the Wigglytuff Guild on the Grass Continent, were upstanding. They worked hard to do good, to explore, research, and make life better for people. Other guilds were less… moral. Guild members would throw their weight around, threaten, bribe, and cheat their way to comfort.

Deciding to steer clear of the topic, Flip sighed loudly and stretched. ‘So, how long have you lived in Felure?’

Sapphire smiled, her eyes a thousand miles away. ‘All my life.’

‘Got any plans to leave?’

Sapphire twisted to face him, her beak hanging open as she scoffed. ‘I don’t even know where I’d go. Or what I’d do.’

‘You should join us!’ Nick called. Leaping over the fire, he settled into a squat mere inches from Sapphire. He grinned at her and shrugged. ‘Why not? We’re just a couple losers going from here to there.’

Shuffling backwards, Sapphire glanced at Flip for help.

Flip shrugged. ‘We’re looking for something. You’re welcome to join us.’

Before Sapphire could answer, Nick began cackling with laughter. ‘Not this one, though,’ he crowed, pointing at Flip. ‘He ain’t looking for nothing! He already knows, there’s nothing out there.’

His eyes hardening, Flip glared wordlessly at the Sableye.

Nick grunted and fell backwards, acting as if he’d been struck. ‘Oh, oh no, spare me your vicious gaze!’ He cried mockingly. Suddenly rolling to his feet, Nick picked at his teeth, his gaze turning to Sapphire. ‘Pokemon like Vine, they’re searching for something, meaning, or whatever. Pokemon like Flip and myself, we know better. There’s nothing.’

Jumping to his feet, Flip squared up, standing uncomfortably close to Nick. ‘Don’t compare me to you,’ Flip hissed.

‘Why not?’ Nick asked innocently, his eyes glinting in the firelight. ‘We’re the same, after all. Empty.’

Flip grasped for something, anything, to say. He wanted to deny it, but couldn’t get the words out.

His grin widening, Nick poked Flip’s shoulder. ‘The sooner you accept it, the sooner you can be free.’

‘I’m tired.’

The words rang out with such clarity the weight behind them was enormous. Vine stared at his two friends, the fire between them was no match for the cold quiet behind his eyes.

‘We, we should rest. It’s late,’ Sapphire noted, her voice tinged with caution.

Shrugging, Nick skipped backwards and curled up by the edge of the rocks, so the freezing night wind could strike him and the fire’s warmth sat tauntingly out of reach.

His body suddenly heavy, and tired, Flip sat, his mind racing. Had Vine not intervened, what would have happened? Flip was certain, he would’ve killed Nick. It would have been over in an instant and perhaps in the afterlife Nick would know if there were meaning to all this.

Weary, Flip laid his head down and waited for sleep to claim him. He felt the fire’s warmth licking at his back, memories jumped unbidden to his mind and he fought back tears as he remembered the warm soul who’d once slept near him.

Vine sat up awhile longer, watching stars passed overhead. After spending so many years looking at those stars they were almost familiar, but so distant. Vine burned with jealousy at the sight of them. The stars, constant, predictable, had only one job; rest. The stars would rest as the world passed by and called them beautiful. His weary eyes drifting closed, Vine laid down, wondering when he would finally rest.

The night seemed short, it passed, quick and sharp, and the sun’s morning rays lit upon sleeping figures. The warmth stirring him, Flip’s eyes flickered open. Feeling the stiffness in his joints, he stretched, stood and breathed deeply. The air was chill. Sunbeams sparkled upon the snow further up the hill, dazzling the eyes.

With a grunt, Flip turned to the firepit. The once mighty flame had burned to coals and flickered meekly, still glowing orange in the center. Flip shot a jet of water on the coals, sending steam hissing into the air.

At the noise, Sapphire woke with a start. Scrambling backwards, her eyes went wide and she searched about. After a moment, she settled, shook out her fur and stood, watching Flip cautiously.

Vine and Nick woke shortly after and, after a short discussion, the group headed out once more. They trekked on through the day, traveling up the mountain and deep into the Snowbelle Ranges. At first the snow was slushy underfoot, but the further they went the more compact it became. Either way, it was bitingly cold.

Flip and Sapphire walked without complaint, and Vine floated several feet above the snow, shivering in silence, but Nick whinged near constantly. Though, the fault was his own.

For all his grievances, Nick bounded throw the snow, rolling in it, throwing snowballs into the air so they would fall down on him. He did all this with a sneer upon his face, no humour in his voice, and the others simply ignored him. After all, what were they supposed to do? Encourage the gremlin’s odd behaviour? Lavish attention or concern upon him?

No, no, of course not. Everyone knows, a cry for help isn’t real until you can see the danger or the damage. And by then, all you can do is cry ignorance and curse your luck. Certainly, that isn’t fair, but who are we to say what we deserve? There is only what is, and what isn’t, and what we dared hope.

As for Nick, despite appearances, he dared hope for a whole damn lot, but I’m getting ahead of myself.

As the day grew on and the afternoon sun began arcing through the sky, the town of Felure appeared. Cresting a snowy ridge, the group looked down upon a small valley, clustered between two spires of mountain. Felure was a dozen sturdy houses standing alongside a long dirt road. The road formed a T near the centre of town, one way leading into the mountainside, while the other paths stretched out of town, past several homesteads, down through the ranges and into the surrounding forests. On the low side of town, an icy river, full of slush, came trickling down from further up the mountain. A small bridge crossed the river at the towns bottom entrance.

Laughter could be heard emanating from a large inn, the orange glow of firelight clear in the windows. Several Pokemon loitered around town, not doing anything of note.

Sapphire’s wing balled into a fist and she nodded at the inn. ‘That’s likely where their boss is. The others are scattered throughout the houses along the road.’

‘Where are the townsfolk?’ Vine asked, his face pinched.

‘In the homesteads, a little ways out of town.’ Sapphire pointed and sighed. ‘It’s probably for the best, their out of harms way, but what’re we supposed to do?’

His eyes scanning the situation, Flip stretched his neck, fighting to get the kinks out. ‘I’ll take care of it.’

Without another word, Flip leapt over the crest, sliding smoothly on his belly, down the other side of the hill and towards the town. A curious murmur rose as several Pokemon saw the little blue creature speeding toward them, a flurry of snow shooting up behind it.

As the ground leveled out, Flip jumped smoothly to his feet and skidded to a stop by the roadside. The invaders glanced at him, unsure what to make of the stranger.

Strolling casually along, Flip yelled, ‘under who’s name do you occupy this town?’

A murmur ran through the throng of Pokemon and a Snorunt scuttled off, disappearing into a large building. It reappeared a moment later on the heels of a Bisharp. Tall and intimidating, Bisharp’s blades had a razor’s edge and gleamed wickedly in the light. Bisharp stared down the Wooper.

Unmoving, Flip repeated his question, ‘under who’s name do you occupy this town?’

Bisharp smiled. ‘We, of the Ursaluna guild, are using this town as a homebase while we handle jobs in the area.’ Bisharp’s tone was cordial, though her stance was anything but. She stood, legs slightly bent and blades at the ready, itching, wishing for a fight.

Flip smiled warmly. ‘I represent the townsfolk. They request you move on.’

Scoffing, Bisharp made a show of glancing at her blades and dusting them off. ‘That won’t be happening. We’re not done helping these people!’ Bisharp raised her arms and a cheer rose from her underlings.

With a sigh and shake of his head, Flip responded, ‘Remember, I tried to be nice about this.’

Bisharp snorted and squatted slightly. Dropping her weight, she held her arms out in front. Twin blades of white light grew from her arms. They curved and ended in wicked edges.

Flip’s brow raised. Guillotine was a difficult move to control, even standing still and holding the attack ready was impressive.

‘I’m curious,’ called Flip. ‘Can you really utilise guillotine or are you bluffing?’

Bisharp smiled cruelly. ‘Would you like to find out?’

Flip’s laughter boomed throughout the town, shattering a silence which tried to settle upon the scene. Kicking at the snow, Flip rolled his neck. ‘Try me.’

Her smile growing wider, Bisharp sprang forward. Sprinting down the snowy road she reached an arm back, and swung forwards, silent and precise. The blade came down across Flip’s neck and shattered.

Bisharp skidded past and slowly turned around. Confusion etched across her face, her lips quivered as she tried to force a question out. ‘H-how?’

Flip shrugged casually. ‘Didn’t you know? One shot moves only work on someone weaker than you.’

With a scream, Bisharp swung her second blade, but, like the first, it broke upon Flip’s skin and he stood, unharmed.

A wicked smile quickly spread across Flip’s face. Her bravado failing, Bisharp scrambled backwards.

Flip leapt, spun, and slammed his tail into her face. Bisharp went flying back down the street. She crashed into the ground and rolled in a tangled mess of flailing limbs. She screamed from where she lay and her underlings leapt at Flip.

Tens of enemies rained charged him, but Flip welled up his energy inside and released it in a great crashing wave. The muddy water erupted from where Flip was standing and swept outwards. Any enemies left standing quickly reconsidered their options and fled. In a few short minutes Flip alone had routed the invaders. Well, mostly.

Bisharp was on her feet again, and with a scream of rage, she leapt at Flip, reaching as if to choke the life from him. Though, the closer she got, the slower she moved.

Bisharp froze, standing above Flip, her blades ready to fall upon him, but she couldn’t move. A cold sweat broke out upon her forehead. ‘Who, who are you?’

Flip’s smile was so cold the snow could’ve been sand on a hot day. A shiver ran down Bisharp’s spine and as she stared into his abyssal black eyes she realised, she did not want an answer to her question.

Falling to her knees, Bisharp wailed and scrambled backwards, desperately struggling to escape our hero.

Later that evening, Flip and Vine lay in beds of straw, and twine. Warmth was carried into their room through vents connected to the blazing fireplace in the inn’s groundfloor, where Nick partied with the townsfolk. They exchanged tales of Flip’s bravery and might, and the way the villains fled from him.

Vine hadn’t spoken much since the town had been freed and Flip felt the silence poking him like a sharp stick.

Flip thought a moment, then cleared his throat. ‘You seem tired.’

‘Hm? Oh-‘ Vine shrugged. ‘I’ve been having nightmares.’

‘What of?’

‘It’s the same one each night,’ Vine said with a sigh. ‘Though I get a little further through it each time.’

Flip’s brow furrowed. ‘And?’

‘I’m at sea, floating above the waves. There’s a storm. Thunder and lightning, waves big enough to swallow a town. And I hear someone, screaming, crying out for help.’

‘What happens next?’ Asked Flip.

‘I don’t know yet.’

‘Well,’ Flip breathed deeply. ‘Tonight you can rest easy.’

‘Perhaps.’

Chapter 5: Extinction

Chapter Text

After the battle in Felure, the trio rested a day, enjoying friendly company and full bellies. They had waited until officer Magnezone arrived to arrest the invaders; turns out, Sapphire had alerted the police in Celadine, but decided to take matters into her own hands, given the slow response.

Then, the trio moved on. There were three roads away from town; one leading down the hills, back the way they’d come. Another, wound further around the mountain and across the ranges, eventually giving way to long empty plains.

At Nick’s request, the trio set out by the third path. A long, dark tunnel burrowed into the mountainside, dropping sharply into the freezing belly of the snowbelle ranges.

Nick and Vine were well suited to the dark, and had no trouble seeing. The same could not be said for Flip. Regardless, he never stumbled nor faltered in his unending march.

Smelling of must, the tunnels wound through the mountains, seeming to stretch forever. The caves were eerily silent, the occasional sound of running water and passing conversation desperately fighting to keep the silence at bay.

Nick had been doubled over, studying a stone he’d found, but now he tossed it aside and ran to catch up. Cackling, he slapped Flip on the shoulder. ‘Gee, Flip, you really gave that Bisharp the what’s for, hey?’

Flip glanced sidelong, unable to see Nick, but doubtless of his grin. Flip tried, but couldn’t keep the smile from his face. ‘It felt nice, being able to help them.’

Nick doubled-over, clutching at his stomach and howling in laughter. ‘Help them? No, no,’ pausing, Nick shuddered and made several unintelligible growling noises. ‘I was watching. You enjoyed that fight.’

His brow furrowing, Flip answered, ‘I didn’t mind the exercise.’

Cackling again, Nick leapt forwards, crashed to the ground, and crawled to Flip’s feet. ‘I was watching,’ Nick said slowly. ‘That Bisharp was terrified. And you, you loved it.’

Flip’s unbreaking stride paused. When he spoke, his voice was icily cold. ‘That Bisharp was a criminal. They took over a town, stole supplies, lodging, kicked people out of their homes.’

With a shrug, Nick waved the comment aside. ‘Sure, but, you didn’t just kick them out, no.’ A wicked grin spread across Nick’s face. ‘You terrorized them. It gave me nightmares.’

His body rigid, Flip turned sharply, walked around Nick, and continued marching through the dark.

Running after Flip, Nick fell in step beside him, gesturing wildly. ‘No, really. I dreamt of you, tearing me apart with your bare hands! I know you don’t have hands, but still, after the other day, I’m sure you could do it.’

Whirling around, Flip loomed over Nick. The Sableye fell backwards, his eyes gleaming with Flip’s monstrous reflection.

‘Oh, I could,’ whispered Flip. ‘Would you like to see?’

His smile growing impossibly wide, Nick rolled backwards and began jogging down the tunnel, giggling all the while. ‘Ah, I love it, I love it! But no, not yet, not today!’

His heart pounding so loud he could hear it, Flip took a deep breath and released it in a long sigh. Steadily, his heartrate slowed. The anger remained, but it burned low, like coals, ready to leap into a wildfire.

‘For the record,’ Vine said gently, ‘if you had hands, I would appreciate a hug.’

His mind elsewhere, Flip walked past, ignoring Vine’s comment, and his open arms.

With the conversation lost, silence covered them like a cloak. Vine’s silence was soft, comfortable, unafraid of being broken. Nick’s silence was one of choice, and delight; he wore it like a crown. Flip’s silence was familiar. Too familiar. It chased him as if it were his own damn shadow, and it reminded him, you can scream all you like, if none can you hear, you are silent, and alone, and worthless.

Now, to shift gears from that dreadfully edgy vibe, imagine the trio continuing their spelunking expedition. Vine is full of cheer and hope, as is Nick. Flip however, is busy crafting his edgelord persona through the ancient art of brooding.

Now, after some more time, no directional awareness, and plenty of darkness, you would think they had grown profoundly lost, but once again, Flip came through, which is really quite irritating. He’s doing everything himself, though that’s somewhat the point. Oh, I beg your pardon, I’m getting ahead of myself again. Now, where were we?

Leading the way, Flip turned down a tunnel. Eventually, a soft light appeared at the end, accompanied by music. Stepping from darkness into the light, Nick hissed and cursed softly, waiting for his eyes to adjust. When they did, his jaw dropped.

The trio stood upon a rocky outcrop, high up the wall of a massive cavern. A staircase had been carved out leading to a sprawling city below. Hewn from the mountain, buildings of great black stone filled the cavern, adorned by massive gleaming crystals which filled the space with light of all colours.

The distant roar of water reached their ears from the far side of the cavern, where a waterfall spouted from the mountainside, gushing down in a river which snaked through the city. Cold, fresh air was breathed into the cavern, seemingly coming from the same tunnel as the water.

‘What is this place?’ Breathed Nick.

Flip raised a brow, and managed to be civil. ‘This is the city of Drifas, the light quarter, anyways. Other tunnels lead to the night quarter, which is basically the same, but without those massive crystals lighting the place. Musicians come here from the world over. Apparently, master craftsman can dig out hollows in the rock with accoustics that are unmatched.’

Vine managed to tear his eyes away from the sight long enough to tilt his head at the Wooper. ‘How do you know so much? Everywhere we’ve gone, you’ve already been there.’

‘Like, I said,’ muttered, Flip, ‘what I’m searching for doesn’t exist anymore.’

Vine’s face fell. ‘You, you’ve already searched the world over, looking for something. We’re just-‘ he paused, fiddling with his little hands- ‘retracing your steps.’

After a long silence, Flip smiled. ‘I wish you better luck than I had.’

Gently laying a hand on Flip’s shoulder, Vine asked. ‘What were you looking for?’

‘My brother.’

His mind racing, Vine leaned back. ‘Then, he’s?’

Flip nodded. ‘He’s gone.’

‘I’m sorry.’ Vine whispered. ‘You must have loved him dearly.’

With a weak laugh, Flip felt tears at his eyes. ‘I really wish he was still here.’

Nick sat on the edge of the outcrop, his feet dangling over the edge. Swinging his legs, Nick chewed on the delicious new information. Certainly, that explained a lot about his friend, Flip. Still, it didn’t change what Nick had to do. If Flip didn’t realise it soon, Nick would simply have to break him.

The trio sat in silence, taking in the view for a short while longer. Then, at prompting from Vine, they traveled down a super sketchy stone staircase and into the city of Drifas.

The trio found an inn and booked a room, ready to rest their feet after the long trek, but none of them wanted to sleep. Flip strolled off, talking about getting a drink. Nick muttered something before scurrying away. His empty hands reaching after them, Vine watched his friends go, his mouth falling open.

After a moment, Vine shook his head and laughed at himself. Those two were perfectly capable. They would be fine without him for a few hours. No matter how social the person, sometimes you need time alone.

Whistling softly, Vine floated through the city, taking in the sights. Pokemon bustled about, peddling wares, chatting wildly, and doing those everyday tasks that built monotony, and routine, and comfort.

Something tugged at his heart and Vine felt himself slip into old memories. The nostalgia of simpler days filled him with warmth, and a soft sharp pain. He missed those days dearly, and he would search the world until he knew why he’d been ripped away from them.

‘Hello there!’

Ripped from his thoughts, Vine blinked and looked around. He wasn’t in the city anymore. He’d wandered off the main streets, onto an old, seldom used path, weaving through boulders and leading into a tunnel.

‘Are you lost, lad?’

Heavy footfalls sounded nearby and Vine squinted, searching for the one who’d called him. A large blue figure stepped forwards. The strange Pokemon’s body blended with the rocks, camoflaging it. Well, mostly, red crystals jutted from the Pokemon’s body.

The Gigalith moseyed nearer, her eyes glimmering. Vine studied her for a moment longer before nodding. ‘Ah, yes. I was just… lost in thought.’

Gigalith seemed to smile, and nod. ‘I understand. Follow the path back and you’ll reach the city, no problem.’

Vine glanced back, but felt something urge him, beg him to continue forwards. ‘Um, I might walk a bit longer. Do you know what’s down this path?’

Gigalith rocked back slightly. ‘Indeed, I do. It doesn’t get many visitors these days, but I’d be happy to show you.’

His brow furrowing, Vine wondered what he had gotten himself into. ‘Thank you.’

‘My pleasure,’ answered Gigalith. Turning slow, she lumbered down the path, into a narrow tunnel.

The tunnel held several scattered crystals, like back in the city, though they didn’t shine as bright. Torches had been hung in sconces behind the crystals, casting light over every crevice in the tunnel.

As they walked, Gigalith sang quietly to herself. ‘Secret tunnel, secret tunnel, through the mountains~’

Eventually, Gigalith made a sharp turn, and the pair passed through an entryway which opened into a massive atrium. The ground was relatively even, though it rose in the back, as if forming a stage. A magnificent crystal tree hung from the ceiling, it’s roots holding on tight. The trunk stretched downwards, mighty branches reaching out, interlacing like a spiderweb.

‘What is this place?’ Whispered Vine.

Gigalith sighed fondly. ‘Drifas is the city of music, renowned for our theatres, and their unmatched accoustics. This, this is where it all began.’

His jaw hanging open, Vine shook his head vaguely, hopelessly lost.

Gigalith nodded and continued, ‘You may not know, six hundred years ago disaster befell this world. It was a dark time. It’s theorised that some species of Pokemon died off, but it is fact that one species did indeed go extinct; humans.’

Vine froze. Unable to do anything, he slowly dropped from the air, until he sat, enraptured by Gigalith’s story.

‘Humans used to cover this planet, but they weren’t as strong as Pokemon. They died off, but it’s believed that this city is where the last colony of humans lived. They fled their homes, seeking refuge here, in the caverns, but humans weren’t met to live in caves. They eventually died down here.’

Vine shook his head. ‘I don’t understand, then why-‘

‘Hush, I’m getting to it!’ Growled Gigalith. ‘They eventually died out. Until that happened, they clung to hope. They brought music to these tunnels, and with it came laughter, and cheer. Something sorely lacking in those days. Pokemon living in the mountain heard the beautiful sounds and rejoiced. With their help, the humans survived several months, but they couldn’t outlast what drove them here.’

‘Which was what?’ Vine asked, desperation dripping from his voice. ‘What was the danger?’

Sighing, Gigalith shook her head. ‘I’m afraid I don’t know, lad. I’ve been here since before the humans arrived, but rarely stuck my head aboveground.’

‘You’re over six hundred years old?’

Gigalith chuckled, a deep rumbling sound from deep in her core. ‘I look good for my age. Yes, I was here when music first swept through these halls. Since then, I’ve worked to preserve the beauty that humans bestowed upon these dark caverns.’

Suddenly feeling very weary, Vine floated upright, his eyelids heavy. ‘Well, thank you. I appreciate your effort, and your time.’

Gigalith nodded politely, and Vine floated away, back towards the city. It went by in a daze, until he found the inn. Hurrying to the room they’d booked, Vine curled up in a bed, but his sleep was restless.

A nightmare rolled through his sleeping mind. Thunder and lightning over stormy seas. A voice, crying for help. Vine hovered over the towering waves, chasing the voice, desperate to help. He found no one, but in the water he caught glimpses of a shadow.

Vine awoke in a cold sweat. There was something just out of reach. Someone was drowning.

Fear gripped his heart, its icy clutches chilling his veins. The thought of it happening again, waking up and finding he’d lost someone else, he felt as if he couldn’t breathe.

Curling into a ball, Vine whimpered. ‘Please, please, just hold on.’

Chapter 6: Heaviness

Notes:

TW for vomiting, skip the paragraph starting with “Dark thoughts filled his mind”

Chapter Text

Flip rolled his neck and released a long sigh. The breath escaped, but its heaviness lingered. It had been hovering over him so long, he didn’t feel it as much these days, but recent events had brought it all swirling back.

After splitting with the others, Flip had wandered the streets until he came across the Chargestone Tavern.

A large building hewn from rock, it was a spacious room filled with tables. Chandeleirs hung from the ceiling, light bouncing off crystal filaments in the walls and casting a blue glow throughout the place.

A Kricketune and Ferrothorn duet were tucked into a small alcove, playing music. The sound was strange, Flip couldn’t pick the genre, but he didn’t mind it.

A long bar was set against the back wall, a Cofa*grigus rapidly serving drinks with its four ghostly hands. Flip sat atop a tall wooden stool at the bar, sipping his drink through a straw.

Thoughts of his brother running rampant through his mind, Flip lamented at the unfairness of it all. His brother had been good, kind. He didn’t deserve any of it. It should have been someone else. They should have had more time.

A Lucario cleared her throat, pulling Flip from his thoughts. Glancing over, he found her staring at him and drumming her paw atop the bar.

‘Can I help you?’ Flip asked.

‘Eager to get back to your brooding?’ Lucario laughed softly, shaking her head. ‘I was enjoying my drink until you walked in. Your aura is so cold and noisy I can hardly think straight. If you’d like, I could sell you a magnet, pull that hunk of lead out of your chest.’

Xatu’s words ringing in his ears, Flip frowned. ‘Lead isn’t magnetic.’

Lucario pouted. ‘That’s a shame. Guess you’re stuck with all those emotions. And,’ she drawled, ‘I’m stuck with a sour drink, until you leave.’

When Flip simply raised his brows, Lucario rolled her eyes and walked from the bar. ‘Life isn’t fair,’ she muttered.

Flip scoffed at that, at the truth of it. Life isn’t fair. Pokemon like Bisharp wreak havoc, and cause suffering. Then, they just walk away. Sure, this time they’ll pay somewhat for their crimes, but what’s to stop them from doing it again? They don’t deserve that chance.

And Nick. Oh, people like Nick, who toy with others for their own fun. What do they deserve? Well, if Flip had his way, then- ‘I dreamt of you, tearing me apart with your bare hands! I’m sure you could do it!’

Flip’s mind reeled as he remembered Nick’s words. They had simply been a taunt, but sitting here, his anger seething, they were scarily real. If Flip wanted, he could simply kill Nick and wouldn’t even feel anything for it.

After all, Nick wouldn’t be the first. It was Flip’s fault that his brother was gone. It was Flip’s fault they didn’t have more time. It was Flip’s fault-

Those thoughts circled endlessly in his mind. Hours passed, patrons came and went, and still Flip sat, drowning in guilt and the bottomless glass before him.

It was never supposed to happen like this. Flip, and his brother, deserved another chance. Wasn’t that owed to them? Wasn’t it their right? Wasn’t it there, for the taking?

Dark thoughts filled his mind and his stomach couldn’t do it anymore. Bile rose in his throat and Flip vomited his drinks across the bar.

There was angry yelling from the Cofa*grigus, but Flip was hardly aware. He didn’t notice as he was lifted from the stool, and tossed out the window. Wordlessly, Flip stood, moseyed back to the inn and collapsed into a bed, unaware of Vine’s shuddering form across the room.

Several hours earlier, across town, Nick scurried through throngs of people. Crowing and whinging, he dodged the footfalls of Pokemon much larger than him and searched for a way out of the crowd.

Muttering to himself, he leapt towards the nearest shop and scaled the outside wall, until he was perched atop the roof.

Drifas was a big city and it was filled with people. Not only on the ground, though. Massive stalactites hung from the cavern’s ceiling. Pokemon like Magneton and Crobat could be seen flying in and out of entrances bored into the rock. Durant crawled from the ceiling, down the reversed spires and into their hives. In between the stalactites hung gleaming yellow webs, Joltik and Galvantula scurrying about atop them.

For a moment, Nick’s stared in wonderment. The business and the crowds fell away and it occurred to him the sheer number, and weight, of all the lives down here.

A distant music reaching his eyes, Nick perked up and found himself racing across the rooftops, chasing the sound. Eventually finding the source, he sat on a rooftop, near an open air theatre, and listened.

Musicians played, and sang, and Nick found himself grasping at the air, as if he could hold the music, but it slipped through his fingers. So much beauty fell upon his ears, and unable to catch it, he could only sit in awe.

Eventually, the musicians stopped, thanked their audience, and left the stage. A Machamp strode onto the stage, holding an elegant piano overhead. It gently placed the instrument down and scurried off-stage, returning a moment later with a stool.

Machamp sat, flexed its fingers, took a deep breath, and played. The melody was simple. It wasn’t nearly as impressive as the previous musicians. Machamp’s large clumsy hands made mistakes, pressing the wrong notes and fumbling over the keys. Still, Machamp smiled, and played, and it was breathtaking. Nowhere near perfect, but unarguably special. At least, to Nick.

The simple innocence sparked something inside him and Nick worriedly searched his chest, thinking he’d been struck, but despite the odd sensation he felt, he could find no proof of injury. Indeed, unable to hold the music, Nick was left with nothing but a smile, and a foreign, but not unwelcome, feeling of warmth.

Nick sat, listening for hours, completely absorbed in the music. Eventually, he came back to reality, his stomach growling at him for his neglect.

Grunting, Nick punched his gut into silence and began scurrying back to the inn. Upon arrival, he found Vine and Flip seemingly fast asleep. Nick gulped down a Gravellyrock he’d bought on his way back, dropped into the third bed, and slept.

Severals hour later, the gang had all awoken, not rested by any means, but keen to leave the city behind them. Vine had shaken off the nightmare, chalking it up to physical and emotional exhaustion. The past several days had been a lot.

Flip was silent as he prepared to leave, seemingly lost in thought. Likewise, Nick was quiet, perhaps for the first time in his life. The Sableye gave nothing away and hid a torrent of thoughts within his normally empty head.

With little discussion, they left Drifas and began the long trek out of the mountain.

Several hours later, emerging from dark caverns, Flip moseyed out onto the rocky floor of a valley. He glanced ahead, and continued marching.

A moment after, Nick strolled from the tunnel. The Sableye had been quiet for some time, but now he gasped. His gaze started on the stone beneath his feet, then stretched, noticing the soft green grass which spread, flowers blooming in haphazard clusters. Their colours radiant, petals glistening with dew. The mountains curled around the valley, as if embracing the land, cradling this field in a loving grasp. At the far end of the valley was a gap, a spot where the mountains embrace was broken, and beyond it was the rising sun. Light spilled over the edges of the mountain, pouring inwards and bathing the land in warm golden light.

A deep shuddering breath racked his body and Nick couldn’t help but stare, the light glinting off his gemstone eyes.

Chapter 7: Nightmare

Chapter Text

The days since Drifas had passed painfully slowly. Flip and Vine made their away across the countryside, steadily moving west. After coming through the valley, they’d travelled across grassy plains which seemed to stretch endlessly.

Eventually, the plains morphed into the woods through which they now trekked, thick foliage blocking their path at every turn. Vine floated above the thicket, struggling to keep Flip in sight. The Wooper grew quieter with each passing day. Single minded determination driving him forwards, all else was whispers in the wind.

Sighing to himself, Vine dropped low and pulled a branch out of Flip’s path. ‘I miss Nick.’

‘We’ll see him again,’ was Flip’s muttered response.

‘I know. That doesn’t make me miss him less though.’

Flip groaned and glanced up at the little ghost. ‘You can always go back to Drifas.’

‘It’s too dark, there’s no sunlight. Besides,’ Flip floated on his back, paddling his arms as he drifted along. ‘I haven’t found good soil, yet.’

‘Well, when you do,’ muttered Flip. ‘Let me know.’

‘You’ll be the first.’

Settling into a comfortable silence, the pair continued working their way through the forest, until the sun drifted from the sky and night fell. Deciding to rest, Flip flattened a groove at the base of a tree, and got comfortable. Vine hovered amongst the branches, eventually laying atop one, and wrapping his wispy tail around it.

‘So, where are we going?’ Vine had been patiently following Flip’s lead, waiting for the announcement of their destination, but as Flip’s silence grew, so did Vine’s curiousity, and his concern.

‘A town called Virida, deeper in the forest,’ Flip answered.

‘And after that?’

Flip’s mind swirled with thoughts of their destination, and what he would do upon arrival. ‘It’s a surprise.’

Vine’s tail flicked in annoyance. ‘What are you looking for?’

Flip thought a moment, his head tilting, he smiled at the few stars poking through the canopy above. ‘A second chance.’

‘Well, I hope you get it. Goodnight, Flip.’

A smile upon his face, Flip nodded. ‘Happy dreams.’

Flip had been sitting awake, thinking to himself, but eventually dozed off. The next day, he awoke to sunlight, pushing it’s way through the branches above. The buzz of nearby Pokemon, and the scent of moss and pollen, was thick in the air.

Jumping to his feet, Flip rolled his neck, stretching the kinks out. ‘Ready to go?’

When Vine didn’t answer, Flip shuffled backwards, his eyes stretching the tree for his ghostly companion. Vine was resting on a branch, still fast asleep.

‘Oi, Vine, it’s morning!’

His quiet snores filling the air, Vine showed no sign of waking.

With a grunt, Flip leapt in the tree, landing nimbly before Vine. ‘Hey, wake up.’ Flip gently prodded him, but Vine didn’t stir.

His brows furrowing, Flip shook Vine harder. Flip shouted, shoved, headbutted, but Vine wouldn’t wake.

Flip’s eyes went wide and he checked Vine over, but could see no signs of injury. His mind raced, wondering what danger could have done this, and so quietly?

Shaking his head clear, Flip pushed his head under Vine, forcing the sleeping Pokemon around his neck, like a scarf. I hear Phantump’s are all the fashion these days.

Leaping from the tree, Flip began hurrying through the woods. It had been another two and a half days to Virida, but Flip managed it in twenty-one hours.

It was a sight to behold, flying Pokemon scattering as Flip bounded through the air, like Icarus, reaching for the sun. From the treetop to treetop, Flip raced across the forest, no obstacle managing to slow him.

Fear chilled Flip’s veins, and he couldn’t bear to think about losing another. So, he didn’t. His purpose now shifted, Flip didn’t care for conserving his energy. The only thing that mattered was getting Vine help.

When he eventually reached Virida, Flip was breathing hard, and his skin felt dry and papery. Still, he raced past through the town, seeking help wherever he could.

Virida was built to flow with the slope of the forest, and it’s mighty trees. A multi-layered city, rope bridges connected treetop houses, crossing the plentiful streams and small waterfalls below. Bushes and shrubs burst from every open space, their greens strikingly beautiful. Alas, their beauty was wasted upon the frantic Flip and sleeping Vine.

Scared Pokemon gave hurried directions to the blue blur as he called for help. Finally, Flip came to a stop outside a tall hollowed-out tree. A door was built into the side and a nearby staircase wrapped around the trunk, leading to higher stories.

Flip slammed his head into the door repeatedly, begging that someone would answer.

‘Who in the-‘ the sentence dropped as the door whipped open. It was a Lucario, the same one Flip had met at the Tavern in Drifas.

‘You’ve got to be kidding me,’ she muttered.

‘Please, my friend needs help.’

Glancing at the Phantump wrapped around Flip’s neck, and the budding bruise on the Wooper’s forehead, she hesitated only a moment before opening the door. ‘Pass him here.’

Gently taking Vine in her arms, she lifted him from Flip’s tired shoulders and carried him to a table.

‘There are cups over there, help yourself to some water.’ It wasn’t a suggestion, but an order. Lucario couldn’t examine Phantump if the Wooper suddenly keeled over. ‘What’re your names?’

‘I’m Flip,’ came the answer, between long gulps of water. ‘That’s Vine.’

‘What’s the problem?’

Flip shook his head. ‘He won’t wake up. Everything seemed fine last night, but this morning, nothing.’

Her brows furrowing, Lucario reached out with a paw and waved it slowly over Vine’s body. Around his chest, she paused, her eyes growing wide. She grunted and stumbled, catching the table to steady herself.

Flip leapt onto the table, his eyes snapping between Vine and Lucario. ‘What’s wrong? Is he alright?’

Lucario took a moment to compose herself, then continued to examine him. By the time she was finished, she seemed much older. ‘He’s alright, just sleeping, but it’s like he’s stuck. Something is keeping him from waking up.’

His eyes narrowing, Flip studied Lucario closely. ‘There’s something else.’

Taking a deep breath, Lucario nodded and settled herself on a chair. ‘He should be alright, we just need a Pokemon who can help wake him up. I don’t know who that would be though. A Musharna, maybe?’

Flip felt a wave of relief wash over him. At least Vine wasn’t in any apparent danger: There was still time.

‘But,’ Lucario continued, looking at her hands as she twiddled her fingers ‘There’s something weird about his aura.’

Flip shook his head. ‘What does that mean?’

‘Everyone has an aura. It’s like a collection of everything you are and everything you’ve done, condensed into one thing.’

Flip’s expression cleared. ‘That’s what you meant, back at the bar.’

She nodded. ‘Some Pokemon, like myself, can read other people’s auras. No two are the same. And, your’s was the noisiest aura I’ve every seen. Thrasing, and twisting, as if trying to pull away from itself.’

‘We’re getting off topic,’ Flip said sternly, his eyes narrowing once more.

Angrily pointing at him, Lucario hissed, ‘don’t forget, I’m helping you.’

‘S-sorry, I’m just worried.’

Satisfied, Lucario nodded and gestured at the unconscious Phantump. ‘Your friend here, his aura is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Normally, auras are fluid, moving like water. His is solid, a sphere, golden and perfectly silent. People this,’ she waved her hands, searching for the right word. ‘ People this good? I didn’t think they existed.’

Taking a seat, Flip looked closely upon his friend. ‘I don’t understand.’

Lucario sighed, her expression heavy. ‘When we met, your’s was the saddest aura I’d ever encountered. The pain, and heaviness, just being it near it was torture.’ Taking a deep breath, she shook her head and continued. ‘But now, this Phantump, there’s no contest. I touched a fraction of his suffering and it sent me reeling. Yet, despite all that pain, there is nothing in him but gentleness, and hope, and a desire for peace.’

His expression clearing, Flip smiled with newfound fondness upon his friend. ‘My brother was like that.’

Her eyes narrowing, Lucario studied Flip before slowly asking, ‘your brother?’

‘He’s gone.’

‘I’m sorry.’ Lucario looked at the floor, her expression distant. ‘What was his name?’

Flip had to force the word past the lump in his throat, and he smiled sadly as he said it. ‘Forrest.’

As if a lightning bolt were dropped on him, Flip’s face lit up. This changed nothing. Flip would head for his destination, carry out his plan and save Vine. It was two Pidgeys with one Geodude.

Yet, something swirled inside Flip. Something begging him to stop, change course, do anything else. Like mighty waves, turmoil churned within Flip and he could feel himself slipping under.

‘Flip?’ Lucario murmured, worried at Flip’s vacant expression.

‘Can you show me?’

Lucario shook her head. ‘I don’t-‘

‘His aura,’ Flip whispered. ‘Can I see it?’

Her brows furrowing, Lucario stretched out her paws, one towards Vine, the other towards Flip. She closed her eyes, and the feelers on her head raised as she peered in Vine’s aura once more.

Flip closed his eyes and felt as he was pulled inwards. When he reopened his eyes, it was as as he were floating in space. A black abyss around him, all Flip could see was a brilliant golden orb; Vine’s aura. It radiated light, and warmth.

Flip couldn’t help but cry. Tears burst forth. Tears of sorrow, and joy. Tears of guilt, and forgiveness. Now that he’d seen Vine’s aura, felt it, Flip knew he could never be like that. Thus, his conviction was set. As unstoppable as time and as immovable as a mountain, Flip’s choice was made. There was no going back now.

It flooded Flip with relief to know, it hadn’t all been for nothing. There was a reason he was still alive. He could yet find worth in his insignificant life.

Lucario screamed and scrambled backwards, falling out of her chair, as a shadowy tendril burst from Flip’s chest. The tendril wriggled about before wrapping itself around Flip, holding him in a cocoon. A moment later, the cocoon broke, a wave of darkness erupting from it. Lucario was thrown across the room, colliding with a wall. Pain racked her body and fear paralyzed her as she glimpsed Flip’s aura.

Before, it was pained, and angry, but now only a stillness lingered, but it was unlike the peace Vine knew. Where Vine’s stillness was born of love, and longing, Flip’s was created from hatred, selfishness, and the desire for all that the world owed him.

Stepping from the cocoon’s carcass, Flip emerged, tall and steeped in shadow. It dripped from his body like rainwater. A piercing blue eye burned beneath a flowing white mane. Long black arms ending in fierce claws jutted from his torso. A ring of red spikes guarded his face.

Studying his new form, Flip flicked his hand, sending a shadowy fist through Lucario’s furniture. The wooden cabinet exploded in a shower of timber shards.

Flip threw his head back and laughed, a deep and sombre sound. He’d been powerful before. Now, he truly had all he needed to set everything in motion. He would it get it all back, no matter the cost.

Flip spared one last glance at Vine, before smashing through the door, and disappearing into the night.

Earlier, leaping through the jungle, Flip had startled Pokemon, but brought them no harm. Now, a blur in the night sky, silhouetted by silver stars, Flip inspired only fear, and nightmares.

A name surfaced from deep within Flip’s aura. Something quiet and fragile, and when he yelled it, it was as if everything shattered. Flip, the Wooper, was gone. All that remained was a creature of shadows.

‘I am Darkrai!’

Chapter 8: The Debt Collector

Chapter Text

Darkrai had flown through the night, only stopping briefly, to study his new form, or test his powers. It was astonishing. The speed and strength he’d acquired. The near endless abilities. The vision, oh, the vision. It was as if he’d been looking through blurred glass. Now, everything was clear. There was no doubt, or regret. There would be only justice.

His destination finally coming into view, Darkrai felt his pulse quicken. He flew towards the top of the building and lightly set down upon it’s peak. ‘I like what you’ve done with the place. Very clean.’

A large blue Pokemon, covered in metal armour, stood at the tower’s edge, watching the rising sun. It didn’t respond, didn’t move.

Throwing his arms wide, Darkrai yelled, ‘Dialga, I’m here to collect on your debt.’

It’s voice heavy, Dialga answered, ‘you would undo everything Forrest gave his life to achieve?’

Darkrai studied his non-existent nails. ‘In a heartbeat.’

When Dialga didn’t answer, Darkrai felt his temper flare. ‘You don’t care. Forrest, Grovyle, Celebi, they gave up everything saving you, and you don’t even care!’

‘Stopping the world’s paralysis came at great cost-‘

‘How would you know?’ Screamed Darkrai. ‘That cost was the man I called brother! That cost was my friend, and a mentor. That cost was betrayal and suffering and I bore all of it! Look at me, Dialga. Look at me!’

It’s footsteps slow, Dialga turned, looking pitifully upon what once was Flip, proud member of Wigglytuff’s guild.

Darkrai tore at his skin, shadows being cleaved away in slithers under his sharp claws. ‘I paid the cost and this is all that’s left! I tried to be strong, like Forrest, but I can’t. And I searched this whole damn planet looking for the last surviving human and found nothing! After everything I gave, I deserve better.’

Dialga hung it’s head; it knew what happened next, and it couldn’t bear to look. ‘When someone is drowning, you have to be careful in saving them. A scared person will grab you, and drag you both under. Flip, you’re brother has been with you. He saw you suffering. He reached out, and you both drowned.’

Dialga had spoken plainly. Yet, Darkrai couldn’t see it. Consumed by sorrow, Flip, the kind and heroic explorer, was dead. All that remained was Darkrai, and the lingering desperation to have his brother back.

‘Forrest is gone,’ Darkrai whispered, his eyes downcast. ‘But I’ll see him again soon.’

Darkrai pressed his hands together, feeling power swell between them. With a shout, he released it and darkness burst forth. Shadows leapt from Temporal Tower and wrapped around Dialga, chaining it in place.

Moving towards the spire, Darkrai gouged the Time Gears from their rightful place and dropped them into the shadow at his feet, where they disappeared. Then, with menace in his gleaming eye, Darkrai moved towards Dialga.

The ruler of time shook it’s head sadly. ‘The relic fragment chooses it’s owner; someone pure of heart. Would it still choose you now?’

Pressing a finger against Dialga’s forehead, Darkrai forced his dark power into Dialga. The steel dragon struggled for a moment, pulling against it’s constraints. Then, it stilled. The blue stone on Dialga’s chest began to glow red and the normally blue light that pulsed from it’s body coursed orange.

‘Primal Dialga,’ crowed Darkrai. ‘You serve me!’

Tossing its head, Dialga roared mightily, a shockwave bursting out from it. The explosion shattered the foundations of Temporal Tower, the monument collapsed, and with it, so did time itself.

A wave of shadows burst from the rubble and raced across the Earth. In it’s wake, only a world of cold, dark, stillness remained. In an instant, the sun went dark, the wind froze, and the planet was completely paralyzed.

Technically, no one was harmed by it. For reasons beyond Darkrai’s understanding, the planet’s paralysis failed to affect living creatures. All Pokemon would remain alive and unharmed, for now. The oncoming panic and inevitable destruction, well, people were bound to be hurt, but that didn’t deter Darkrai. After all, they wouldn’t remember it.

At Darkrai’s bidding, Dialga leapt them both into the past. Now, standing atop an unblemished Temporal Tower, Darkrai looked out over the horizon and imagined he could see a young Wooper arriving in Treasure Town for the first time.

Turning away, Darkrai ripped the Time Gears from their pedestal and set off to hide them across the continent. This was how it had to be. With the future collapsed, Forrest would inevitably appear, and find his way to the past, where he would meet Flip. Eventually, the pair would gather the Time Gears and return them to Temporal Tower, preventing the planet’s paralysis. Then, when the restored future tried to claim Forrest, Darkrai would intervene, and somehow, save his friend. With Forrest still around, Flip wouldn’t suffer so dearly, and he would never become this. Darkrai would be reborn as Flip once more, in a perfect future, with Forrest beside him. Then, all of this, would be nothing more than a bad dream.

Unbeknownst to Darkrai, back in the future, the firstfruits of his plan were already budding. In a forest village, called Virida, a wounded Lucario worked slowly, cleaning her house, desperate to restore it.

The shadowy creature that had burst forth from her home had shattered furniture, damaged the floors, and walls. Lucario didn’t doubt the sudden stillness in the air was his fault, and all she could do was sweep away the rubble, and hope to tuck the dread in her stomach under the rug.

Eventually, Lucario collapsed, a quiet snoring mess, nursing a bruised arm, and busted ribs. She didn’t notice as a small pink Pokemon flew into the home. With a look of pity, the Pokemon touched Lucario’s unconscious body and as if time moved backwards, Lucario’s injuries were healed.

Then, with a smile on her face, the Pokemon flew towards the table, where it gazed upon Vine’s sleeping form. Feeling tears well in her eyes, Celebi reached a hand towards Vine, and time rewound on the friendly ghost.

‘I’m sorry,’ Celebi whispered. ‘I’m so sorry.’ Thoughts of Forrest, and Grovyle, and Flip, passed through Celebi’s mind, but she didn’t try to shut them out. Instead, she found herself loving those memories, clinging to them, and the pain in her heart became sharper.

‘For giving you this burden again, I’m sorry.’

Fluttering backwards, into the shadow of the trees, Celebi watched as Vine’s body glowed, flashing a golden light: The last light this dreary world would know.

When the light faded, Phantump was gone, and a human boy lay in his place. Clutching at his head, the boy sat up and groaned. He looked about, and his eyes grew wide. Stumbling from the table, he tripped, and dropped to the floor.

Crawling desperately, he struggled outside, fighting to get his legs under him. His eyes searching, memories came racing back and he felt something which carried dreadful familiarity.

It had happened again. During his youth, Forrest had gone to bed one night, unaware that anything was wrong. When, he awoke, he did so as a Phantump. A lost little ghost, in a vast forest. Something had wiped out all of humanity, and Forrest had awoken with nothing but his memories, and the knowledge that he was alone.

Now, it had happened again. Somehow, he’d turned from a Phantump back into a human, and he was alone once more. The only difference, last time, Forrest had slept through the event which threatened to erase all life. Now, he was right in the thick of it.

Flip was nowhere to be found, and without knowing what had happened since that night when he fell into his short coma, Forrest was unsure what to do.

All around him were gaggles of panicked Pokemon. Forrest found himself able to understand them, perhaps due to his time as a Phantump, but none were interested in speaking to him. This fleshy stranger, unlike anything they’d seen before, was an unknown. Could he be behind the stilling of the rivers, and the lack of wind?

Thinking it wise, the residents of Virida chased him from the village, and Forrest walked through the endless night. Eventually, he stumbled across a pond and became aware of just how thirsty he was. Falling to his knees, he cupped his hands and drank gratefully, noting how the water he dropped didn’t fall, merely hung in the air.

Forrest tried to check his reflection in the water, but even that was denied him. Staring into the pond’s shallow waters, only the cold dark surface greeted him.

Rolling onto his butt, Forrest wrapped his arms around his legs and dropped his head between his knees. ‘Flip, where are you? I look different, but it’s still me.’

‘Argh!’ Forrest yelled, running his hands through his hair. ‘This isn’t getting me anywhere.’

Standing, Forrest looked about, struggling to discern which direction the Snowbelle Mountains were. Flip might be gone, but Forrest at least knew where to find Nick.

Unable to tell which direction to go, Forrest pointed and sang, ‘Teeny weeny Tynamo, pick a stream and watch it flow, down which river did you go, teeny weeny Tynamo?’

His course set, Forrest continued his march. However, it stopped just as quickly, when he heard a peculiar sound reach his ears. A shrill cry was emanating from somewhere nearby.

Picking his way through the scrub, Forrest peeled away branches that clung doggedly to the torn clothing he’d awoken in.

Poking his head through the trees, Forrest’s gaze set upon a small grass type Pokemon; a Treecko. It’s fists were balled at its sides, and it’s head was thrown back. It cried loudly, it’s distress stretching through the forest.

At the Treecko’s feet lay a Sceptile, it’s eyes gray and lifeless. It’s chest didn’t rise, and it made no move to comfort the child.

What had happened, Forrest didn’t know, but clearly it was already having an effect. Panic spread across the world in an instant. It wouldn’t take long for communities to become strongholds, and for outsiders to be seen as threats.

Stepping slowly from the trees, Forrest kneeled by the crying Treecko and smiled gently. ‘Crying is hard work. It makes me very thirsty. Would you like some water?’

Treecko’s wailing quietened to muffled sobs. It sniffled and looked upon Forrest, unsure of the stranger.

‘It’s okay. I miss my family too.’ Slowly, Forrest reached out and pulled Treecko into a hug. It burst into tears once more and Forrest slowly stood, cradling Treecko in his arms.

Backtracking to the spring, Forrest found that his mind was set. This had happened to him twice, and it made him furious. He would discover whatever caused this, and prevent it, no matter the cost.

Meanwhile, across the ocean, through a small town and deep into a mountain range, a bird Pokemon stood, unblinking. It had once stared into the sunset, now Xatu could only see darkness.

‘So,’ mused Xatu. ‘You’re third life begins. Forrest, I wish you luck in your quest; find good soil.’

In times long past, it was thought that Phantump were tree stumps, possessed by the spirits of children who died while lost in the forest. I wonder, should a Phantump find it’s way back home, then, could it rest?

Chapter 9: Hands

Notes:

TW for mutilation, not desricbed in detail, but wanted to let you know, regardless. To avoid, skip the paragraph immediately after the line “Don’t leave me. Don’t leave me!”

Chapter Text

Darkrai sat atop the beach cave, just outside Treasure Town. He listened as the waves crashed against the shore and watched the Krabby blow bubbles in the evening light. The ocean spreading out before him, the sun dipping over the horizon, could anything be more beautiful?

Alas, that isn’t what Darkrai came to see. A voice catching at his ears, Darkrai turned and watched a small Wooper wander onto the beach.

Taking in the scene, the Wooper’s eyes sparkled. ‘Wow, what an impressive sight!’

Looking upon his past self, Darkrai felt nothing. Flip, the Wooper, had been weak. Too weak to save Forrest, or Grovyle, or Celebi, but Darkrai would ensure things were different this time.

His eyes scanning the beach, Darkrai watched as a little green Pokemon washed up upon the shore. The sickly looking Turtwig lay still and Darkrai felt the urge to race to it’s side, but before he could, a shiver ran down his spine.

Forrest was the brother of Flip, not Darkrai. For Forrest to see him like this, what would he say? Would he be scared? Darkrai had planned to let things play out as they had, and simply watch, but it was too much. He couldn’t bear to wait, so he turned and ran.

As Darkrai flew away, Xatu’s words echoed in his mind, ‘demons run when a good mon goes to war. Flip, would they still run from you?’

Suddenly aware of just how cold he felt, Darkrai changed course. He flew towards the fading light, as if he were trying to catch the sun, but he couldn’t reach it, and the closer he got, the colder he felt.

When he looked back across the ocean and saw the long shadow he cast, Darkrai realised, he couldn’t feel the sun on his body. Light passed over him and disappeared; he drew it in, but felt no warmth. The person he’d been was truly dead, and only a vast emptiness remained. No would recognise him anymore. Actually, that’s not entirely true. Though, Vine was in a coma, possibly even dead by now, but there was still one more.

One other person who could recognise him. One other person who might stand by him. For Darkrai, the only way out was to see this through, but something in him yearned not to do it alone.

His eyes narrowing, Darkrai raced for Temporal Tower, where Primal Dialga waited.Fortunately, given his speed and flight, Darkrai could travel larges distances in short time. Hence, it was not long before Darkrai, in his own time, hovered above the city of Drifas.

Before we go any further, I feel I should apologise. Honestly, it wasn’t meant to go like this. Things weren’t meant to be this way. This, this isn’t what I wanted. I’m so sorry.

The mighty waterfall that once gushed into the caverns was silent, and still. Drifas was changed from what it had been only several days prior. The bustle was gone from the streets, and the city was quiet apart from an odd, piercing note.

The sound was pitchy, and awkward. It wobbled, rising and falling unreasonably. It paused for a moment, before blaring out again.

His curiousity piqued, Darkrai moved towards the sound and came across a small ampitheatre. A Gigalith sat in the stands, barking instructions and criticisms. Upon the stage stood Nick, his fingers plucking clumsily at the strings of a violin.

‘My boy!’ Cried Gigalith. ‘You are not a Kricketune, I beg you, use the bow!’

Nick’s grin stretched wider and still he tried, dragging his shadowy claws across the strings. How he didn’t cut the strings, I couldn’t tell you. I can only imagine he was dreadfully careful, despite the intense desire to create beauty with his own hands.

Darkrai lowered himself into the stands silently, sitting a few rows behind Gigalith. When Nick’s eyes lit upon him, a chill ran down the Sableye’s spine. He stopped playing, leapt from the stage and had a hurried conversation with Gigalith. A moment later, the stone golem walked from the ampitheatre, muttering to herself.

‘The world has been thrown into chaos. Yet, here you stand, making music,’ mused Darkrai.

Nick skittered closer to the strange shadowy being. ‘This city lives on a diet of music.’

Darkrai’s brow raised. ‘I see. Though, don’t you enjoy the chaos? Why not revel in it?’

‘Chaos requires life. Whatever’s happening isn’t chaos. More like,’ Nick paused scratching at his chin, ‘a purge.’

‘Only a temporary one, and for good cause.’

For a moment, Nick was silent, his expression inscrutable, and when he burst into laughter the sound was unsettingly and ghostly. Throwing his arms wide, Nick made a show of looking at empty stands. ‘You can justify this? I’m terrified of you.’

Darkrai’s head co*cked. ‘You needn’t be. I want you to come with me.’

Nick cackled and dragged his hands down his face. ‘Forget it!’

‘Nick, I’m-‘

‘I’m not coming, Flip!’

Darkrai paused, his hand frozen as he reached for his friend. ‘You really do recognise me?’

‘I told you, I saw you in my nightmares.’

Darkrai felt as if he’d been punched. His insides churned and he sat heavily on the stands. Putting his head in his hands, he muttered to himself. Nick watched silently, filled with a mixture of pity, and fear.

Eventually, Darkrai spoke. ‘Nick, I don’t want to do this alone.’

Nick scoffed. ‘Find someone else then. I won’t help you.’

‘But I-‘

‘No!’ Screamed Nick, his fists clenched. ‘Flip, this isn’t right.’

Emotion surged through Darkrai like waves crashing in a storm. The currents raced along, sweeping him up and carrying him far away. ‘I want my brother back,’ whimpered Darkrai. ‘I need him.’

Something in the way Darkrai said it made Nick pause. Taking a slow step back, Nick whispered, ‘why?’

Darkrai’s gaze grew distant. ‘He loves me. My brother loves me. He believes in me.’

‘Vine believes in you.’

Darkrai’s brows furrowed, his fists clenching.

‘Flip, where’s Vine?’

His head swivelling slowly, Darkrai turned his gaze on Nick. ‘Gone. Why, why does everyone leave me? I’m nice. I can be helpful.’ His voice growing weak, Darkrai whispered. ‘I’m not worthless, right?’

His gaze falling onto Nick, Darkrai drifted closer. ‘Don’t leave me. Don’t leave me!’

Darkrai leapt, tackling Nick to the ground and sending them both careening down the bleachers. Darkrai’s hands tore at the Sableye, cleaving shadows from his friend’s body.

Drifas, the city of music, was filled with nought but the sound of screams, and the muffled sobs of a broken man.

Darkrai hadn’t killed Nick. Rather, the Sableye was torn apart. The once whole person had been cleaved into seperate beings. Six Sableye crawled along the ground, squealing and writhing in pain. Nick’s mind was broken and all that he had become was stripped away. Only six hollow vessels remained.

Ignorant of the howling Sableye, Darkrai clutched at his head, whimpering and whispering to himself, ‘I’ll bring them back. I’ll bring them all back.’ But even as he said it, Darkrai was terrified, for who could recognise him now? No matter what he did, or how hard he tried, he would always be alone.

And, as I said before, you can cry all you like, if none can you hear, you are silent, and alone, and worthless.

Chapter 10: Hunger

Chapter Text

Forrest had searched for months, at least, it felt like it. The sun didn’t shine and the stars didn’t burn in the night sky. It could’ve been days, or years, that he searched. The only indicators of time passing were the collapse of society and the stubble growing on Forrest’s chin. He had tried to return to Drifas, but it wasn’t safe and without the sun, he couldn’t tell which direction he should go. With each passing day he felt a little weaker. Still, he endured.

Now, Forrest stared out over the desolate wasteland. Clouds sat unmoving in a grey sky. Boulders hung frozen in the air. Trees stood in full bloom, waiting to birth fruit that would never come. Waves were raised high in the ocean, but could not crash.

In this time, when the only warmth to be found was in your own blood, and gentle company, Forrest tickled the chin of the Treecko clinging to his shoulder.

Treecko chirruped appreciatively, stretching to expose more of his chin to Forrest’s gentle touch.

Smiling to himself, Forrest pried the little lizard from his shoulder, placing him down. ‘I’m going again, Treecko.’

‘No!’ Cried Treecko.

Forrest scoffed, he often talked to himself and Treecko had begun to learn some of the words. Now, the lizard had a vocabulary to match his todder-esque nature.

‘I’ll be back as fast as I can, I promise.’ Forrest’s face hardened and he pointed at the ground. ‘You stay here. Don’t move this time. It’s not safe out there.’

Treecko gazed upon his surroundings for the thousandth time. A small cluster of trees with a ramshackle hut built between them. Brambles were piled against the roof and walls, making the home look more like a giant thorn bush. Treecko had been upset when Forrest implemented the disguise; the human had gotten countless scratches from the thorns. Eventually, Treecko nodded.

Satisfied, Forrest smiled and rubbed the Treecko’s head. ‘Good boy. I’ll be back soon.’

Treecko watched Forrest’s retreating form as it slowly disappeared over the dark horizon, then he scurried inside and began to play with the ball Forrest had made him. One question burned through the young Treecko’s mind, ‘if it’s not safe, why do you go?’

Treecko knew the answer, but that didn’t make it easier. So, Treecko played with his ball and tried not to think about it.

Across the darklands, Forrest’s destination came into view. Since the planet’s paralysis, food didn’t grow. Any existing food stores were quickly ravaged and very little could still be found on the planet’s surface. The only reliable spot to find food was in mystery dungeons, and even then it was always grimy, and almost worse than going hungry.

Mystery dungeons were strange places, with no logic to them. How the items appeared or the layout changed, Forrest didn’t know. Not that it mattered. As long as food kept appearing, he could survive another day, and he would survive. Provided he didn’t die first.

Aggresive Pokemon roamed mystery dungeons, competing for food and items, or having just deemed the dungeon their home. Unable to compete with their strength, Forrest found himself relying on speed and agility to escape. His policy was to get in, get out, maximise items with no complications. It was a practical, yet unrealistic, policy.

Forrest had returned to the dungeon and now strode through long, dark hallways. The grey floor looked as if it were made of clouds, but it crunched like dirt. Thick walls of red and purple stone lined the edge of the dungeon.

Exiting the hallway, Forrest cautiously stepped into a room, his gaze settling on what looked like a purple stone. He checked the coast was clear and dashed forwards, arm outstretched for the grimy food.

An explosion rocked the room and Forrest was sent careening backwards. He skidded across the ground, coming to a rough stop. His legs burned and itched with the feeling of grazed skin. A Mismagius hovered protectively over the food, and it’s eyes glowed blue as it prepared another Shadow Ball.

Forrest was lucky the first attack had missed him, but he wasn’t out of the woods yet. Standing slowly, he held up his hands innocently and began to back out of the room.

Mismagius watched cautiously, and held it’s attack, the ball hanging ominously before it. As Forrest reached the corridor he had entered from, Mismagius decided it didn’t want to take any chances, and launched the attack.

Seeing the Shadow Ball fire, Forrest dove into the corridor. He landed hard and covered his head, shards of debris raining down on him. Then, he was up and running, desperately fleeing for the next floor. Mismagius gave up the chase and devoured it’s prize.

‘Moving on,’ muttered Forrest, slowing his pace. He continued his meticulous dungeon crawl and came across the stairs without finding any more food.

Forrest stumbled on the stairs and rolled onto his back, suddenly finding himself lying on the next floor. From his position, Forrest could see a Drifloon watching him, it’s eyes wide.

Drifloon emitted a loud, high-pitched whine. The cry was answered a moment later as a Drifblim floated in.

Drifblim’s gaze narrowed and it spun, a ghostly wind bursting out from it. The Ominous Wind filled the room, slicing Forrest’s clothes and leaving countless cuts upon his bare skin.

Drifblim was blocking the only exit to the room and was already readying another attack. Forrest curled into a ball and ushered a silent plea that Treecko would forgive him. Yet, the attack never came.

A strange black Pokemon, with flowing white hair, dove into the room. It fired two quick attacks, knocking out the Drifloon and Drifblim effortlessly.

The Pokemon turned upon Forrest, it’s icy blue gaze piercing his soul. ‘I finally found you.’

Standing slowly, Forrest raised his hands. ‘I’m not looking for a fight.’

‘I hope not. You’re pitifully weak.’

Forrest didn’t dare take his eyes off the stranger. This Pokemon was too powerful to fight, and too swift to outrun. Just standing near it made Forrest feel heavy, tired.

‘I am Darkrai,’ said the stranger. ‘I mean you no harm.’

Floating backwards, Darkrai drifted into the hallway, beckoning Forrest to follow. Forrest debated the wisdom in following this creature of shadows, but figured he didn’t have much of a choice.

Forrest crept after the Pokemon and Darkrai, satisfied, turned and began to navigate the dungeon. Several times they were attacked, but Darkrai defeated the foes in an instant, leaving Forrest to wonder at it’s power.

As they went, Forrest kept his eyes peeled, and managed to claim a single piece of grimy food. After that, Darkrai hastened his escort and they soon found themselves outside the dungeon.

Standing at the mouth of an impossibly dark cave, Forrest nodded solemnly. ‘Thanks for your help. I’ll, uh, I’ll see you around?’

Darkrai stood impossibly still, his flowy body somehow without movement. Though, his eye seemed to quiver, almost as if he were tearing up.

‘Forrest, I had the most terrible dream.’

Forrest froze; he had never given his name. How could this Pokemon know it? The question quickly fell by the wayside as Forrest felt a tug at his heartstrings. The Pokemon’s voice, it carried such pain.

With a sigh, Forrest sat and began to draw in the dirt. ‘I know the feeling. I was convinced I was trapped in a nightmare once. Eventually, I realised I wasn’t. That it was reality.’

‘What happened?’

‘I’m not really sure.’ Forrest paused his drawing and gazed sadly upon the stick figure family before brushing it away. ‘I went to sleep one night. When I woke up, everyone I loved was gone. I don’t know how, but in an instant, I was alone.’

‘I didn’t know.’

Forrest couldn’t help but scoff. ‘Then, it happened again.’

‘Pardon?’

‘I was with my friend, Flip. I went to sleep, and when I woke, he was gone, and the world was like this.’

That was it, the straw that broke the Camerupt’s back. Vine and Forrest were one and the same. Flip’s brother had been beside him all this time, and Forrest had carried the loss of his entire species. So many family, friends, people he could never reclaim. His entire race wiped out and Forrest would never know why. No mercy, no closure, no peace.

Forrest had carried this pain all this time, and Flip had never known. Now, it broke his heart.

Darkrai darted to where Forrest sat and struck his ethereal finger through Forrest’s head. Forrest stilled, as if paused, unable to see or hear, and Darkrai wept.

‘I’m sorry! I failed you. Forgive me, brother! Please, forgive me.’ Darkrai howled his pain and wept until no more tears would come forth.

Eventually, Darkrai pulled his finger from Forrest’s mind and slipped into shadows, disappearing. Forrest was left with a roaring headache and words that seemed to flow into his mind.

‘Seek out the Time Gears. Return them to Temporal Tower. Restore the world, and make things right. Take this gift, the Dimensional Scream. It will help you.’

Clutching at his head, Forrest whimpered in pain, eyes clenched shut. When the torture finally ceased, Forrest looked about, only to find that Darkrai was gone, and that a gleaming red apple lay before him.

Forrest nearly drooled at the sight of the apple, but resisted it’s temptation. Reaching into his pocket, Forrest pulled out the Grimy Food, and ate it quickly. Forrest’s body was wracked with stinging pain as it’s ill effects rapidly spread.

Still, Forrest collected the apple and began the journey back. Every step was agony, poison shooting through his body likes hundreds of glass shards. There was no ignoring it, so, when Forrest eventually reached his ramshackle hut, he bit down upon his tongue.

Forrest strode in, smiled at Treecko, and handed the little lizard his apple. Treecko looked at the fruit in wonder, then glanced suspiciously at Forrest.

Forrest smiled and sat, leaning against the wall. ‘I found two, but I was so hungry I already ate mine. Go ahead!’

Needing no further prompting, Treecko tore voraciously into the apple, relishing it’s sweet juices.

Meanwhile, Forrest only tasted the warm blood spewing from where he’d bitten too hard upon his tongue. Still, he smiled. All the pain in the world couldn’t tempt him to ruin this moment for Treecko.

Chapter 11: Condemned

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It had taken years, but Forrest had finally found them all. The Time Gears, he knew where they were, he knew how to save the world and prevent all this from happening. He was so close, but a monumental task stood before him.

Under a grey sky, the walked through a sparse forest, a clearing in the near distance.

‘The Passage of Time is just ahead.’

Forrest’s eyes flicked to the pink Pokemon floating before him, and he couldn’t help but smile. ‘Thank you, Celebi.’

Celebi giggled. ‘My pleasure! I would give my life again and again to see the sunrise.’

Grovyle nodded solemnly and spoke in a surprisingly deep voice. ‘We’ll set things right.’

Forrest laid his hand upon Grovyle’s shoulder, looking fondly on his friend, and reminiscing. ‘Are you ready? If we do this, we’ll disappear.’

Grovyle smiled. ‘A small sacrifice. At least wherever I go, you two will be with me.’

‘There it is!’ Cried Celebi.

Turning his eyes forward, Forrest saw the Passage of Time, a swirling blue and black vortex, tucked amongst lifeless trees.

With nothing more than a shared look, and a nod, Forrest and Grovyle moved towards the passage, but a voice stopped them in their tracks.

‘Hoo hoo hahaha! You didn’t think you’d get away, did you?’

Forrest whipped around, unsurprised to see a Dusknoir sauntering closer, flanked by three Sableye on either side.

‘I won’t let you change the future!’ Crowed Dusknoir.

Raising his hands slowly, Forrest knelt and pressed his forehead to the ground. From there, he called, ‘I’m sorry, Dusknoir!’

‘Sorry?’ Scoffed Dusknoir. ‘Well, apology accepted. Let’s head to Temporal Tower and join Master Dialga for some afternoon tea,’ he drawled.

‘I think it’s morning, actually,’ muttered Grovyle.

‘You’re condemning us all!’ Dusknoir’s gestures grew wild and his voice continued to raise as he drew nearer. ‘Every Pokemon here would die, because you want to see the sun?!’

Standing, Forrest dusted himself off. ‘Plenty of Pokemon died because of this. Either way, people get hurt.’

‘But that doesn’t have to be us!’ Dusknoir released a mighty sigh and his clenched fists loosened. ‘Please, don’t do this.’

‘We have to,’ said Forrest.

‘I don’t want to die! Is that so wrong?’ Dusknoir clutched at his chest and the face on his belly twisted in agony.

Feeling warm tears streak down his face, Forrest shook his head. ‘No, no it’s not. I, I’m sorry.’

Taking Grovyle’s hand, Forrest dashed towards the Passage of Time, Dusknoir hot on their heels. Celebi zipped away from the charging behemoth and watched as Forrest and Grovyle leapt into the Passage of Time, Dusknoir and the Sableye diving in behind them.

The Passage of Time roared and fluctuated for a moment, before growing silent, and disappearing. Celebi watched them go and felt her heart sink once more.

Behind her, Darkrai emerged from shadows. Smiling to himself, he crossed his arms and watched the sky. It was perfectly still.

Sighing, Celebi floated nearer, the smile falling from her face. ‘This won’t work.’

Turning his gaze to her, Darkrai laughed, long and wicked. ‘You all did exactly what I wanted. It’s only a matter of time.’

‘We’ve been here before.’

Plucking a shadow from his body, Darkrai examined it, and tossed it aside. ‘I don’t recognize this place,’ he said with a snort.

Celebi’s gaze turned pitiful. ‘Flip, we have had this conversation before.’

Darkrai’s mind reeled and for a moment the shadows covering his face flickered. Thoughts bubbled to the surface, tumbling over one another. ‘How many times?’

‘I stopped counting.’ Celebi floated near, gently patting his head. ‘It never works. No matter what you try, he doesn’t come back.’

Rage surging through him, Darkrai leapt for the nearest tree and tore it from the ground. Wheeling about, he tossed it acrossed the clearing, where it shattered upon colliding with several other trees.

‘What is it?’ Yelled Darkrai. ‘Why doesn’t it work?’

‘A soul can’t exist twice in one timeline. Eventually, the original will overwrite the other.’

Darkrai’s mind raced. ‘Vine.’

Celebi nodded. ‘Vine is alive when you meet Forrest on the beach. The whole time Forrest was with you, he was slowly being erased. If he’d stayed in the Dark Future, he would’ve been fine, even if you changed the past and restored the Time Gears.’

‘It wasn’t my fault? Then, then I just need Forrest to remain in the future!’ Cried Darkrai, his body billowing despite the lack of wind.

Celebi shook her head. ‘You tried that, and it didn’t work. You failed to restore the Time Gears, things turned bad, and you became Darkrai.’

‘What do you mean?’

Celebi sat, looking pitifully upon Darkrai. ‘Flip, you’re stuck in a time loop of you’re own making. In each and every timeline, Forrest dies and you become Darkrai. You put in motion the Dark Future.’

‘Impossible!’ Snapped Darkrai. ‘That can’t be true. Otherwise, how did I meet Forrest in the first timeline?’

‘You didn’t. The night you first got mugged by Koffing and Zubat, when they took your relic treasure? You went in to get it back, and you got hurt, really bad. An exploration team saved you.’

Darkrai listened with rapt attention, but his stomach coiled and writhed in pain.

‘Wigglytuff’s guild treated you,’ continued Celebi, ‘and you begged them to let you join. They agreed, but you kept getting into trouble. You failed to retrieve the pearl of a Spoink. An Azurill was kidnapped, and you tried to help, but got hurt again while searching in the wrong place.’

‘Stop, that’s enough,’ muttered Darkrai.

‘You were sent to explore a waterfall, and turned up nothing. When the time came for the expedition to Fogbound Lake, you went along. You made it there alright, with some help, but you were ambushed by Skuntank, Koffing and Zubat. You almost died.

‘The expedition was cut short, and when you recovered, you were told to leave the guild. That you weren’t cut out for exploring. You were alone after that. Eventually, you became this, brought about the Dark Future, and began the first instance of the time loop. I turned Forrest back into a human, and you gave him the Dimensional Scream ability, hoping things might turn out different. Flip, you never wanted this.’

Clutching at his shoulders, Darkrai drifted downwards, until he hit the ground. There, he curled into a boulder and began to shake. ‘Why? Why am I doomed to be alone?’

Celebi cleared her throat. ‘Go to the past and find Vine. Then, bring him here. You’ll be together. Grovyle will come home.’

‘I can’t,’ whimpered Darkrai. ‘How can I face him, after all that I’ve done? I don’t want this anymore. Make it stop.’

Celebi’s vision turned blurry as her eyes started to water. ‘I’ve heard you say that many times, and because of you, I have sent my friends to their death countless times. Please, let it end.’

Clawing at the dirt, Darkrai sat upright, his blue eye wavering. ‘I can’t do it.’

Clutching at his shoulders, Celebi begged, ‘this has to end. Darkrai, I can’t do it anymore. I can’t keep waiting for you to make the right choice.’

‘What is the right choice?!’ Screamed Darkrai, swatting her away.

‘Accept that he’s gone and be done with it!’ Celebi yelled back.

‘I can’t!’ Clutching at his chest, Darkrai stumbled to his feet. ‘I am strong because of Forrest. You said it yourself, the original timeline, without him I’m a failure! Without Forrest, I have no value.’

Celebi floated closer slowly, and hugged Darkrai. ‘You just need to find the right place to grow: the right soil.’

Chapter 12: Gardening

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Darkrai had come to the past, to before Flip had met Forrest, or Vine. Darkrai had scoured the earth for his brother and eventually found the Phantump wandering alone through the forest.

Watching his reflection in the surface of a shallow pond, a shiver ran through Darkrai’s body. Since he’d become this, he didn’t recognise himself. There were thoughts, parts of himself that felt foreign.

The old things, the parts of him that remembered Flip, used to comfort him, punch a little sunlight into his dark chest. Still, he felt that warmth. Darkrai hadn’t gone completely cold yet, and that terrified him all the more. Having come this far, what more was he capable of?

His fists clenched as he thought about what the day would bring. For better or worse, today would decide everything.

Branches rustling behind him, Darkrai glanced lazily over his shoulder. A small ghost Pokemon pushed through the trees, plucking stray branches from it’s body. It floated closer, sighing all the while. ‘The canopy is so thick hardly any sunlight makes it down here.’

Darkrai stared at the Phantump. It smiled cheerily, took a drink, and sat by the pond, dragging it’s tail through the water.

‘My name’s Vine, what’s yours?’

Darkrai went to speak, but found a lump in his throat. Swallowing hastily, he shook his head and smiled. ‘My name is Flip. I’ve been looking for you.’

Vine’s head tilted curiously. ‘For me?’

‘It’s a long story. You wouldn’t believe me if I told you, but, it has led me here, back to you.’

Rubbing his ghostly hand over his chin, Vine hummed quietly as he thought. ‘My life has been quite unbelievable too.’

‘Shall we skip the details then?’ Offered Darkrai, his hands gesturing vaguely. At a nod from Vine, Flip smiled and continued, ‘I’m from the future. If you stay here, many bad things will happen. If you come with me, everything will be right.’

Vine’s brow furrowed and he thought for a long, silent moment. ‘If I leave, nothing bad will happen?’

‘I truly believe it.’

‘Then,’ Vine looked imploringly at Darkrai’s fearsome features. ‘Can I just die?’

Silence lingered for what seemed an eternity. The forest’s beauty and light faded to nothingness as Flip’s world, and his hope, came crashing down. He’d mustered all his courage just to see Vine again, but now…

‘Flip,’ Vine smiled gently. ‘I’ve lived a long time. I’m tired. I want to -‘

‘No, no, please, you, you can’t give up on me.’

Vine shook his head. ‘I’m not giving up, I -‘

‘No,’ pleaded Flip. ‘I, don’t give up on me. Don’t leave me again. I don’t want to be alone anymore.’

‘Flip.’

Flip tore at his hair, scratched at his body, wishing that his hands would come away red, bloodied. He pleaded to feel pain, anything that could prove that he was alive, that he had value, but his hands were clean. His shadowy figure flared, but bore no blemish, and no proof.

‘Please.’ Flip fell to his knees, fingers clawing at the dirt. ‘Everytime I’m alone I become this. I’m not like you. I’m not strong. Forrest, I’m scared.’

Vine was silent for a long time, his face strangely blank as a flurry of emotions coursed through him. ‘Forrest.’ The word felt odd, unfamiliar, but just it’s mention brought tears to his eyes. With a weak chuckle, Vine smiled. ‘It’s been a long time since anyone called me that.’

Flip didn’t answer. He only stared blankly at his hands. His piercing blue eye was dim and unfocused. His normally flowing body had become unnaturally still.

Slowly, Vine placed his hand upon Flip’s shoulder. Thousands of images, words, memories, flashed through Vine’s mind and it left him reeling. His head pounded, but the pain was dull, overcome by something far more fierce.

In his gut, Vine felt it. Everything Flip had seen, had done, the weight of it all forced the air from his lungs. It ached, and burned, and it did not relent.

Tears gushed from Vine’s eyes; had he a nose, if would have run with snot. Openly and loudly, he wept. He paused his sobs only to clarify one thing. ‘Flip.’ Vine shook him gently, and Flip’s eye swiveled, looking desperately upon his friend. ‘Flip, it is easy to love you.’

All the pain and loneliness rushed forth and Flip’s tears erupted, watering the ground. Salt is not good for most plants, which is a shame. For as Flip cried, not a tree in the forest went thirsty.

Much later, when Flip’s tears were gone, and he was dreadfully thirsty, he swallowed and looked upon his friend. ‘Vine, is this really what you want? To die?’

Vine had been sitting by the pond, dragging his tail through the water and watching the ripples. Now, his gaze turned upwards and he glimpsed stars through the forest’s canopy.

‘I’ve been searching a long time,’ Vine said slowly, ‘for a place to put down roots, but I didn’t have a reason yet. Everyone I loved was gone, but I was still here. To die, without finding the reason would feel like I was betraying them, because I was loved. Many people believed in me, and I was loved. I didn’t want to let them down. So, I searched for good soil, where I could rest, and where I would find the reason that I was still alive.’

With a smile so bright it outshone the stars, Vine turned to his friend. ‘I’ve found the reason, Flip. All this time, I was just waiting for you.’

‘Then stay with me! Please.’

Vine hugged Flip tight. ‘You are my brother. I love you. I am proud of you. Feel the weight of those things, know how heavy they are. Then realise, Flip, you don’t need me.’

Flip’s eyes stung, and watered. ‘I can’t do it alone.’

‘You don’t have to. The world is a big place. You’ll find someone to stand beside you. You won’t be alone forever.’

Flip knew it was true. He and Vine had found each other time and again. They would do so once more, and that would be the end of it.

In that moment, Flip’s mind was made, and the final part of his plan was formed. He didn’t need time travel to see the path before him.

Flip hugged Vine so hard the little ghost nearly burst. ‘I’ll miss you. My brother. Rest, and be at peace.’

‘Thank you.’

Flip reached out his hand and darkness burst forth. It stretched, enveloped Vine in a black cocoon and shrunk until it was the size of a seed. Flip knelt, scratched away the dirt and placed the seed in the ground. Then, he filled in the hole, watered it, drank, and wept once more.

The finale could wait, first, Flip would grieve.

Chapter 13: All That's Left

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Darkrai floated above a volcano. At it’s peak was a crater, high walls preventing the flowing lava from spilling in. The mountain glowed red as the liquid fire crawled down the outside, heat pouring outwards. The air was thick with ash, and the crater was pitch black stone.

Eventually, three Pokemon entered the crater. A Cresselia, followed by a Turtwig, and a Wooper.

Darkrai spent a moment studying the trio. Celebi had been right, with Vine dead, Forrest disappeared after the events at Temporal Tower, but had returned several months later.

In this timeline, Flip and Forrest had been reunited, they were happy. The dark future had been restored, bathed in light, but Darkrai remained torn, and alone. Haunted by all that he’d done, with the help of Celebi, Darkrai had orchestrated a final showdown against Forrest and Flip in the timeline he’d created. It was almost over now.

‘You’ve kept me waiting.’ Darkrai dropped rapidly, descending into the crater and landing before the trio. His body billowed in the wind and flared with the heat. ‘Good of you to come, Forrest and Flip.’

‘Why do you keep after us? You don’t even know us!’ Flip cried.

Darkrai smiled to himself. ‘I know you all too well.’

Throwing his arms wide, Darkrai began to monologue. Tracing their adventures, Darkrai explained how he had sabotaged Temporal Tower, how he had sought the planet’s paralysis.

Forrest and Flip listened with rapt attention as Darkrai painted himself as the villain of their story.

Cresselia was outraged. ‘That’s why you tried to break their spirt. Even going so far as to use an imposter of me.’

Darkrai didn’t answer.

Bristling with anger, Cresselia began to shout. ‘Even now, you lured us here, so you could be rid of us in one fell swoop!’

Darkrai folded his arms, pausing to think. He knew, he knew should confirm what Cresselia said and be done with it, but his heart ached at passing up this last chance. ‘Very good. I did indeed intend to do just what you say. But, I’ve had a change of heart. So, Forrest, Flip, both of you are brave. You’ve shown great initiative. To be rid of you forever… seems like a tragic waste. You’ve both shown so much promise. Why not join me?’

Darkrai’s mind wandered, and for a moment, he entertained the thought that maybe, just maybe, Forrest would stand beside him once again. Alas, the Turtwig could never. For Forrest to betray this world, why the whole damn thing would have to come against his brother, but that could never happen, right?

Forrest rammed into Darkrai’s chest. The legendary doubled over before roaring, and throwing Forrest backwards. Darkrai’s heart ached, but he’d known things would go this way. Steeling his nerves, Darkrai apologised in the depths of his soul, and wished that somehow Forrest could forgive him.

‘There’s nothing more to say.’ Darkrai readied an attack. ‘I will finally be rid of you meddlers!’

Darkrai threw a shadow ball and the final battle commenced. Cresselia took the blow and reeled backwards, on the verge of fainting. Darkrai couldn’t help but roll his eye. The legend really was useless. Unlike Forrest and Flip.

Forrest stood his ground, firing Seed Bombs. Flip circled wide before charging in, leaping and swinging an Aqua Tail at Darkrai’s head. Darkrai evaded the Seed Bomb, but took the Aqua Tail in the chest and was thrown backwards.

Roaring, Darkrai reached for Flip, fully intent on snapping the Wooper’s neck, but Forrest crashed headlong into Darkrai, biting down with a Crunch attack. Darkrai screamed and smacked Forrest away, but Flip was there immediately, and blasted Darkrai point blank with a Muddy Water.

Darkrai was swept backwards and left reeling. Flip leapt and slammed the ground with his tail, an Earthquake racing out in all directions. The attack threw Darkrai to the ground and Forrest followed up with Giga Drain.

Even as he was pummeled, Darkrai smiled inwardly. This was how things were supposed to be. Sure, it wouldn’t be his life, but at least a version of him would be happy. And Forrest, without his memory of the last 600 years could finally live, and be free. Free of the weight of all those years alone.

Darkrai stumbled to his feet, but Flip raced in, leapt, did a backflip and struck Darkrai with Slam. Darkrai hit the dirt with a grunt, but got to his feet one last time, hands raised innocently. This was it, he didn’t have any strength left. There was one thing left to do.

Darkrai called telepathically to Celebi, and the Passage of Time appeared behind him. With one final monologue, Darkrai moved closer to the passage and was about to jump in, when Palkia appeared.

The space deity roared it’s righteous wrath and fired a massive energy beam. Darkrai took the attack head on and was blasted backwards into the passage of time.

On the verge of fainting, Darkrai lay back and watched his life flash before his eyes. Memories of Forrest, and Vine, and Nick, left a bittersweet feeling washing over him.

The end of the Passage of Time came into view and spat Darkrai out, in the woods. Darkrai limped through the forest until he came across Vine’s grave. Darkrai lay beside it, and watched sunbeams fighting to sneak through the forest canopy.

Darkrai had been clutching his chest all this time, but now pulled his hands away. They were clean, there was no blood, there was no proof, but Darkrai could feel himself dying. His body was racked with pain and his eye drifted closed.

Darkrai smiled to himself. ‘I’m tired. I’m so tired.’ Tears springing forth, Darkrai reached in vain for the sun. ‘I’ll see you soon, Brother.’

As Darkrai breathed his last, his hand fell. Darkrai had set out to find his brother. Vine had sought good soil. They had both found what they wanted, and could finally rest.

With them gone, the time loop would end, and the new timeline could begin in earnest. Celebi would know peace. Nick could have a brighter, though less eventful, future. Perhaps he would finally master the violin.

Back in the dark crater, Forrest and Flip rejoiced. Darkrai had been defeated. They could continue their work as a simple exploration team. Truly, they didn’t want for anything more. To resume their peaceful days, in the company of one another, could anything be better?

Some might call Darkrai evil for what he did, but it cannot be denied. After all the choices he made, right or wrong, all that’s left is hope.

Forrest crushed Flip in an awkward hug. ‘Brother, it is wonderful to be alive!’

All That's Left - Billycorn - Pocket Monsters | Pokemon (2024)

Chapter 1: Roadtrip

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Chapter 2: Backflip

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Chapter 3: Birdstrike

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Chapter 4: Revolution

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Chapter 5: Extinction

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Chapter 6: Heaviness

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Chapter 7: Nightmare

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Chapter 8: The Debt Collector

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Chapter 9: Hands

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Chapter 10: Hunger

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Chapter 11: Condemned

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Chapter 12: Gardening

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Chapter 13: All That's Left

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