I didn't react when the Mienshao threw a powerful punch to the sky when she realized she was not getting a fight out of me, if anything the action itself made her appear far more childish to me than I already thought of both her and Miyako.
And when she brought up the points involving how my interference is far more noticeable, I held my tongue - barely. The temptation to blow up on her and speak of how 'spontaneous thunderstorms manifesting when the sky was perfectly clear' cannot be explained as a natural phenomenon, that and the numerous craters from heavy impacts and glassed ground from energy strikes that has torn up the surrounding landscape. At least my Blue Flare stopped something from escalating to a point of no return.
Yeah, barely held my tongue. Arguing my point with her would be useless.
So I grinded my fangs.
Thankfully Iniko arriving seemed to divert some attention, that and Miyako introducing us - not that I really cared.
When Linda began speaking to Iniko and mentioned about 'dodging a bullet' due to me 'getting a hold of my temper', my eye twitches.
Calm thoughts, Yinomi. This is just more bullshit you have to deal with. Calm thoughts.
With Iniko speedily healing Miyako's injuries and me steadying myself to not kick this Mienshao's ass, the question said Mienshao asks after that comment makes all of us pause.
Iniko, Miyako and I all exchange glances with each other. Our silence extending as the three of us really think on the answer.
Why do we keep a low profile?
Miyako is the one to speak up first.
"It's because...Xiomara told us to?" Miyako responds slowly, speaking as if the Mienshao would know who that is.
"We...don't know the exact details." Iniko admits somewhat sheepishly, the Healing Pulse waters that she's using to heal Miyako's injuries finally dispersing now that said Lopunny's wounds are fully recovered.
I let out a breath, all prior irritation that I had in my system now long gone at this point. "It's a rule given by our...eldest sister." I say to Linda as I contemplate it. "As Iniko said we don't know the full reason why, but she has...explicitly instructed us to not draw needless attention to ourselves."
I exchange glances with the other two again. Like Linda said we are all very powerful - especially with so many of us back in the Isle. But we all remember how Xiomara reacted when we pressed her for specifics, it was the few times we have seen her act...afraid. We didn't press her further for details after that.
"It's definitely...not a matter of power." I finish with a sigh, rubbing my head.
"I know it's not not a proper answer, but I do hope you understand." Iniko says gently.
Miyako actually had the decency to look sheepish for all but two minutes before her usual self returns. She gets up and stretches before inspecting herself, only to look satisfied that her injuries are gone.
"Aaanyways..." She says slowly before her playful grin returns. "Even though that fight technically shouldn't have happened, at the same time Linda here has proved to be ridiculously strong. Like, it's been a long time I've met anyone who could do what she did that's not one of us! So with that in mind..."
She quickly walks behind Linda and puts her clawed hands on the Mienshao's waist, poking her head out from the side and looking at me with sparkling eyes.
"Can we keep her?" She asks eagerly.
"No." My response was immediate before I even fully processed the question.
"Come oooon, she's awesome! Imagine how the other Sisters react if they were to meet her!" Miyako whines. "I'd also get to fight her at full power so she can see just how strong we can get on our home turf!"
Steam escapes from my mouth as I pinch the skin on my face where a nose would be if my species had one.
Iniko chuckles uncertainly, her eyes locked on me while she speaks to the Lopunny. "Miyako, you know why. There's rules on...non-Bearers entering the Isle after the...last time that happened."
The Lopunny freezes at this, only to let out a huff. "Fine." Miyako pouts as she lets go of Linda, crossing her arms. "Still can't blame me for trying."
I dropped the conversation I was having with the locals as soon as I saw the spontaneous gathering stormclouds, followed by me making a mad sprint towards the center of the storm that was manifesting.
Of course I let my eyes off of the stupid rabbit for ONE moment and she started causing shit. Who else is capable of creating lightning storms of that caliber?
When I arrived at the scene and saw Miyako about to unleash an incredibly powerful Boltstrike, I realized that I needed to stop this before she glasses her entire surroundings. No one is worth doing such an attack except for another Legendary, and the purple Mienshao below her was the target.
So I charged my own Blue Flare and launched it at her to intercept the attack, causing the energies to collide and explode in the air - diffusing the inevitable nuke that was about to strike down with the fury of a reckless Zekrom.
And when I walked up to her smoking form of course I verbally tore her a new one, since there were NO circumstances where her actions were warranted. When she told me that this whole thing was just a spar? My fury only increased further.
Of course I also refocused my anger at the Mienshao - the one for enabling Miyako, albeit FAR more restrained. The fact that she isn't too worse for wear now that I can look at her better shows that she's a lot stronger than I initially gave her credit for, but that doesn't excuse this.
When she started explaining her case, my eyes narrow slowly overtime as my fangs grind. It didn't matter to me on whether or not she always wanted to fight Zekrom, it's the fact that Miyako initially said no before eventually accepting the Mienshao's prospect of a good fight.
And it's not a matter of believing, my eyes allow me to see all truth and lies. So the fact that not only did she not speak a single falsehood to me through it all, she also spoke truthfully on wanting to fight me as well.
This girl is insane.
The flames in my second maw shift to condensed draconic power, preparing a highly concentrated Dragon Pulse.
She may have held her own against Miyako, the Mienshao is still a Dragon-type. One good hit with the full power of Reshiram should be enough to take her down - especially with the intent to neutralize.
As the humming in the maw intensifies with a loud whine, my blue eyes begin glowing brightly as a rumbling thrum escapes from my throat...
...only to die as I remember where I am.
I let out a long exhale and close my eyes, letting the collected energy to disperse before I open them.
A fight is what she wants, I can't let myself do the exact same thing that Miyako got pulled into.
"Nice try." I flatly say, crossing my arms as I look at her unamused. "There will be absolutely no more fighting." My eyes narrow a fraction. "Period."
My gaze drifts over to Miyako's prone form as she lets out a groan of pain.
She'll recover.
"For what it's worth? It's impressive you could hold your own against a Bearer." I begrudgingly admit, the words tasting slightly bitter as I acknowledge the Mienshao. "Seeing the...surroundings at least."
The place is an absolute wreck, with countless craters and debris all over the place. Some parts also look to be blackened from Miyako's electricity - and what seems to be residue draconic power unleashed by the Mienshao.
"Regardless, it doesn't matter if there is no one around to get caught up." I continue, my sapphire eyes looking to meet the Mienshao's own teal orbs. "This is still damaging the environment. We shouldn't be fighting to begin with." I raise my voice slightly, so that Miyako knows I am singling her out. "ESPECIALLY since we are supposed to be keeping a LOW profile!"
Miyako lets out a huff of discontent as she slowly manages to sit upright on her knees. "I get it, Yinomi." She mutters. "Don't need to drill it in to me. I hear you loud and clear. Sheesh."
My clawed hands threaten to clench at her dismissal, but I don't push it further.
"Anyways, no more fighting." I say to the Mienshao, my tone leaving no room for argument. "You got your fight, it shouldn't matter if it's finished or n-"
My words slowly die in my throat when I notice a thick fog suddenly rolling in like a powerful wave, engulfing the three of us - signifying the presence of the third Bearer who has now arrived.
My piercing gaze allows me to make the silhouette of Iniko as she approaches us, her deep blue eyes shining like a pair of stars in the mist. "STAND DOWN!" She shouts loudly, concentrated Fairy power pulsing through her being with a barely contained Dazzling Gleam. "This is your only warning!"
I can feel the mist sapping at my draconic essence, weakening its power. It's clear that Iniko is fully prepared to take down all of us, fully expecting to be required to subdued any and all rampaging draconic Bearers.
Which would've been necessary, except thankfully - and surprisingly - I was able to calm myself before a second fight broke out.
"I've gotten it all under control, Iniko." I point out to her, gesturing to the fact that there's no combat going on. "We ARE not fighting. No need to go 'Anti-Dragon mode' on us."
Like a switch is flicked her eyes widen before quickly glancing between me, Miyako, and the purple Mienshao. Upon realizing that she came prepared for no reason, her expression becomes very sheepish and embarrassed.
"...Ah..." She exclaims awkwardly, letting out a nervous laugh. "...My bad." The Fairy power surrounding her form fades, following by the mist thinning before ultimately disappearing completely - and with it the Dragon dampening effect it had.
I let out a subtle exhale to steady my nerves, since I'd be the last person to stop an Iniko who is fully prepared to go 'Dragon Slayer'. While she isn't Corrina, she's still probably the second best when it comes to dealing with Dragon Bearers.
At this point Iniko realizes that there isn't just me and Miyako here, seeing now that she notices the purple Mienshao. "...Hi, sorry for the display earlier." She says with slight embarrassment. "I hope this didn't ruin any first impression you had on m-" She cuts herself out when seeing Miyako all battered up. "Oh my!"
The Medicham quickly sprints over to the sitting Lopunny before kneeling down, placing her hands on Miyako as she begins engulfing her injuries with Heal Pulse infused waters.
"I'm fine." Miyako protests with slight embarrassment as her injuries begin to heal far more rapidly than they already are. "I was already gonna recover in no time." Her expression averts. "...Thanks though."
With the three of us here, the Lopunny soon realizes that that me and Iniko haven't been introduced. I personally couldn't care, but it seems to bother Miyako enough.
"So..." The Lopunny says slowly to the Mienshao before offering a grin. "Linda? These are my Sisters." She gestures to Iniko. "This is Iniko." She proceeds to me. "This is Yinomi." With that she then indicates to Linda. "Guys? This is Linda."
While still healing Miyako's injuries, Iniko offers a friendly wave.
I only give a stiff nod, not bothering with any pleasantries.
Callan@Iniko: "... Queen Thalassa? Your Highness, what brings you-- ... oh." The tall Milotic warrior hesitates, the excitement and curiosity in his eyes yielding to shock, and then fallen into embarrassment. Clearing his throat, he addresses, "... Er... forgive me, madame. I... mistook you for, er, someone else. Still..." with a cleared conscience, he asks, "... 'tis not often I see a -hybrid- of Tapu Fini. Tell me... what powers dost a maiden like yourself wield with such blended heredity?"
[PoV: Iniko]
Another voice speaks to my person, catching me fairly by surprise. I didn’t quite expect for the locals to actually be approaching me, since I was quite sure that I was the one that needed to come to them...
What really confuses me is that the speaker addresses me with such familiarity, yet the name that they utter is completely unknown.
...Queen? Surely they don’t mean me.
When I turn to look at the individual, I find myself blinking a few times as I look at what I could describe as to be ‘the finest the sea has to offer’. As quite stunning as he appears to be, I don’t recognize him at all. From the looks of his expression morphing into something akin to embarrassment, it shows that he too realizes that we have never met.
I myself couldn’t help but be flustered, but mostly due to the fact that he mistook me for someone else. This...is definitely a first.
“It is quite fine.” I say with an awkward chuckle, waving him off. “If I must say? It is quite a surprise that you’ve mistaken me for another, since it’s an occurrence that I can’t say have ever happened before.”
So it seems that there are still other Tapu Fini out in the world, or at a least hybrid of some sort. Hearing this...actually makes feel a bit relieved, to know that not all of the Legendary Pokemon in the world have disappeared.
I find myself driven from my thoughts as the anthromorphic Milotic asks me a question, making the gaze of my blue eyes snap onto him.
“Maiden? There is no need to address me as such.” I wave him off for a second time, my face threatening to gain a red hue. “Well...” As I focus on the question, I feel myself slowly regain my composure. “For my abilities...? As a bearer of Tapu Fin-” I stop myself, remembering that there are multiples out there. “...As a bearer of a Tapu Fini, I possess a multitude of powers that such a Legendary would normally wield.”
I open a palm, the action causing a small stream of white mist to drift out into the air. “Like them, I wield the power of water. Be it to conjure and wield its shapeless form or to utilize it in its gaseous state - which is mist.” I close my palm, causing the growing cloud of fog that’s surrounding my arm to dissipate. “Additionally I can breathe and move freely in water. I also possess the ability to purify large bodies of it as well, regardless of pollution levels.” There’s a twinge of pride when I say this, since I’ve purified a couple of severally polluted rivers during my visits in the outside world. “It’s a power I share with Phinelia, who’s the bearer of Suicu-” I stop myself, not sure if I should continue. Although I’ve been told that there’s not really a reason to hide the existence of the other Sisters, I feel a bit uncomfortable with bringing up the fact.
Diverting the subject, I continue. “And...I wouldn’t necessarily call this ability, but I sustain myself by absorbing the energy that’s derived from moving water. Although I can obtain sustenance from things such as rivers and streams, ocean currents is what satisfies me the most. I tend to make do with whatever I find, since I can’t...well...” I gesture to my face, or more specifically my lack of mouth. “...You get the picture.”
One thing I left out is the fact that my power is most strongest when I’m on my home island, since that is where the source of my power originates. Even though I’m technically far stronger than most individuals on the outside world, this is info that should probably be left to ourselves.
...Hopefully Miyako isn’t running her mouth to others about this.
Realizing that my expression has shifted into one of annoyance, I quickly shake my head and let out another awkward laugh. “But that is essentially my Tapu Fini side. Since I was originally a normal Medicham, I still retain several skills from that side. I’d like to think that I’m some of the best of my kind when it comes to martial arts, which is further enhanced by the power of a Legendary.”
I’ve left out a few things, but this should be more than enough to satisfy his question...hopefully. “I believe that summarizes what I’m capable of, albeit without me getting into the specifics. Although...”
At this point I’m unable to contain my curiosity, and like an open book it’s definitely spelled clearly across my face too. “You mentioned of a Queen? Thalassa was her name, correct?” I subconsciously take a few steps towards him, my eyes brimming with fascination. “It is a first for me to hear of another Legendary that exists in this world, most especially one who is related to Tapu Fini. Could you tell me about her?” Realizing that I may be overstepping a possible boundary, I quickly take a few steps back and raise my hands in a disarming manner. “...If you’re fine with indulging such information to me, that is!”
Sheesh, so much for saving face and keeping a calm and serene image. First my ‘mask’ got blown to pieces by a cloud-like dog, and now this. I do hope that if the original owner of my power isn’t somehow watching me right now, otherwise I’d have the feeling that she would be very...very disappointed in my behavior.
Another thought occurs to me and I can’t help but mentally kick myself, another strike that said originator of my power would probably be disappointed for. “Also... I believe I’ve forgotten to introduce myself as well, I apologize for my rudeness.” I place my hands together and give a bow, albeit a rather quick one. “My name is Iniko, it is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance.”
When he answered my question, I couldn’t help but feel at least a little bit disappointed when he explains this ‘flock’ doesn’t actually consist entirely of fluffy canines like him. The name ‘Wooloo’ does pique my curiosity a little bit though, especially since I can’t quite put my finger on where I’ve heard the name of such Pokemon before...
Still, the simple fact that there’s at least one other like him is more than enough of a mental image to really excite me.
While maintaining my poker face - albeit struggling somewhat to so, I speak up after he finishes talking. “So by peacekeeper, you actually mean guardian?” I state more than ask. “As someone who acts as a bearer to a Guardian Legendary’s power, it is a bit of an understatement when I say that I hold great respect towards you and your duty.” Although my face lacks any clear mouth, my eyes show that I am smiling. “Even though I myself have not seen you with your flock, I know that you go above and beyond when it comes to guaranteeing their safety.” I bow my head towards him. “Many depend on you. If what you do does not concern me, I at least would like to thank you for your diligence.”
At this point I’ve completely forgotten the earlier thoughts that plagued my mind, that is until asked me if I’m alright. With that simple sentence it all came flooding back to me at once, causing my mask to crumble.
“I am...mostly certainly alright!” I quickly respond in a panicked and embarrassed tone, my behavior doing a complete one-eighty. “If anything in my behavior were to make you assume that I am anything but, I apologize for giving you a false impression!. I am perfectly fine!” Even I don’t believe my own words. “Most...perfectly fine.”
Even the most naïve of individuals would doubt the authenticity of what I said through my mannerisms alone, so I can only imagine how obvious it is to him.
I let out a defeated sigh, realizing that I am participating in a lost battle with my emotions. “Alright, alright... There is no use dancing around the subject.” I rub my shoulder awkwardly, averting my gaze. “To speak plainly, I haven’t quite seen anything like you before, especially since there is still a great deal I have yet to see when it comes to the outside world. So...”
Is there...any right way to word this? Probably not. No use in dancing around the subject anymore.
“May I touch your fur?” I ask excitedly, throwing dignity to the wind. I’m not even bothering to hide my intentions anymore, the sparkling in my eyes being quite as evident as was the time I first laid my eyes on him - if not more so.
(Ask-arcanine) Angus@Iniko: "It seems like yer the one who stops the fightin' between them other two. I'm a peace keeper in ma flock myself. " The large arcanine says proudly. "Do ya gotta do that often? I imagine it can be hard tryin' to calm a rampaging legendary, let alone two of 'em!"
[PoV: Iniko]
@ask-arcanine
The voice catches my attention, drawing my gaze to its owner. Already several possible sentences come to mind as I prepare for my first conversation with someone who’s part of the outside world, only to stop and look at confusion as I see what I can only describe as a ‘white ball’.
Is that...a cloud? A giant wad of cotton? I’m...not exactly sure.
The more I stare at it, I start noticing other color patterns. After a few more moments my eyes widen, realization hitting me with the force of a flying boulder..
That’s not a cloud, that’s a Pokemon!
I clap my hands together, my eyes sparkling as I try my best to contain my squeal of joy. I...mostly succeed, the only sound managing to escape being a quiet squeak.
Wait, he did ask me a question. I need to compose myself, ESPECIALLY since I’m representing all of my Sisters.
“Ah, yes...” I start in an embarrassed tone, my blushing causing my cheeks to appear dark purple. “So you noticed the ‘spat’ between those two? I’m sorry that you had to see that, it happens extremely often whenever the two of them are within each other’s vicinity.”
"As for acting as a mediator? Thankfully...that’s something I rarely have to fille the role as.” I look away, my eyes narrowing in irritation. “Truth be told? I usually tend to keep to myself, letting my other Sisters take care of the various conflicts that spring up between them. The only reason why I stop the fighting here is because I’m pretty much the one saddled with that duty, apparently being the only one that cares about how others view us...” I let out a grumble. “I still very much think that it’s stupid that both of them were chosen to be together in the same group. Out of all the possible choices, they had to pick both Miyako and Yinomi...”
Letting out a sigh, I turn my eyes back to the fluffy canine. “Despite the headache, it isn’t really too difficult to calm them down.” I flick my hair with a finger, causing the lock of blue strands to brush over my shoulder. “And...well...” My expression becomes uneasy. “...as for the rampaging legendary bit...? I can guarantee that something like that won’t happen. Even with the poor first impressions, I sincerely say that they mean no harm. They’re just...polar opposites of each other, so there will definitely be a good deal of clashes between them.” I shuffle my feet slightly. “If a full-blown fight were to break out between those two? They won’t let others get caught up in their feud.”
With how frequently Orabelle and Zenoclio contact us, I seriously doubt something like that would ever happen. If they were to actually start literally fighting each other? The repercussions they both would suffer would be tremendous.
Having answered the Arcanine’s question, I find myself standing silently as I continue to look at him. The...temptation to reach a hand out and touch his fluffy mane is extremely strong.
Hopefully it wasn’t too obvious with the way I was looking at him, but I manage to contain that desire and let the familiar expression of serenity mask my emotions.
Wait, hold on...
“Earlier, did you say...flock?” I eventually ask, already several cracks forming in my attempt of appearing tranquil.
I’m not sure if ‘flock’ is a term that’s used nowadays for a group of canine Pokemon, but if that’s true...
There are more of him?!
A second squeal attempts to escape me, but I manage to brute-force the sound back into my throat and prevent it from making a mockery of me. Instead I take in a sharp breath and clench my hands, closing my eyes as I mentally scold myself for nearly embarrassing myself and my Sisters for a second time.
Taking a good several moments to wrestle my emotions until they’re under lock and key, I finally speak again - albeit in an obviously controlled manner. “As a ‘peacekeeper’, I presume that you protect others like yourself?” I wipe away the sweat that’s building on my forehead, averting my gaze again. “If so, how...many of you are there?”
Actually, maybe it wouldn’t be a good idea if he answered that. Even though I’d like to think that I have strong willpower, I have a feeling that it would mean absolutely nothing in the end when it comes to this situation.
“...not that you have to answer, that is.” I eventually add.
(And with that, I shall reveal the next group of characters: Miyako, Yinomi, and Iniko~
As of lately I’ve been going through a writing slump and not having much motivation, so I thought I’d do a change of focus and do a bit of world-building (and also interact more with the community, since I need to do that more).
You can find their refs on the Miscellaneous Character page, right here!
And of course, art and references made by @shadowscarknight~!)
Although it has only been a day since we’ve left the isle, I already feel myself being in high spirits. Although a change of scenery is incredibly refreshing, the biggest reason...is the food.
Currently the three of us are gathered around a firepit we made within a clearing. The freshly killed and cleaned carcass of a Sawsbuck lays speared over it with the use of several sharpened branches, cooked to perfection - with my own fire I might add.
We do have plenty of food on the isle. There’s an abundance of trees that hold a variety of fruits, countless vegetables and root plants, and other miscellaneous edible plants and herbs. For those who require meat in their diet, there’s quite a bit of fish from the surrounding ocean. Wild game or any other meat? That is something we don’t have on the isle.
So when we found a Feral Sawsbuck while making our way to the town, it was only natural that the first thing in my and Miyako’s mind was to hunt it. Miyako killed it before it ever had the chance to react, ending its life with a swift slash to its throat after a giant leap.
Although I would never admit this in the open, I must agree that one thing that Miyako has over me is her impressive speed.
My fangs dig into the leg of the venison, uncaring about the grease that’s dripping down my chin. I can find a stream to wash myself later. The biggest priority right now is to enjoy this very rare delicacy~
Across the firepit I see Miyako currently tearing into her own piece, already getting down to the bone. With a loud gulp she turns to Iniko - said Medicham who is silently sitting to the side.
“Hey, want some?” The Lopunny asks, wiping her face with an arm before gesturing to the meat in the center.
Iniko doesn’t respond verbally, but instead gives Miyako a deadpan look before gesturing to her own face with a hand - or more specifically, her lack of mouth.
Miyako smiles awkwardly. “Oh yeah, right...”
So much for being in high spirits... I roll my eyes at her cluelessness. Although most cases I would add a remark, my mouth is currently full.
“It’s okay, Miyako.” Iniko sighs. “Regardless, I already got my fill from the previous stream we found. Its energies should last for the rest of the trek.”
“I still keep forgetting that you ‘eat’ by absorbing energies from running water.” Miyako muses as she takes another bite into the venison, before continuing speaking with her mouth full. “Do you ever miss normal food?”
Swallowing my bite, I give the Lopunny a glare. “You have the decency of a child, Miyako. Speak only when you don’t have food in your mouth.”
In response, the Lopunny gives me the middle finger before chewing slowly with her mouth open, looking me dead in the eyes.
I let out a growl at this, a puff of purple fire escaping from the large maw hanging behind me.
“It’s not any running water that I get my energy from!” Iniko speaks up hastily, trying to divert the subject back in order to stop the forming feud. “It has to be something like a stream or river, however the most fulfilling is from the ocean itself.” She laughs awkwardly. “And even though I have thought about it, I only miss normal food...occasionally. But absorbing energy from water is a fairly different thing compared to standard eating, and in some cases I’d say it’s much more satisfying and filling.”
Her attempt at drawing our attention away from each other ended up succeeding - mostly at least, since my anger towards Miyako has died down to something more along the lines of simple irritation.
“Huh, that’s pretty cool, actually.” Miyako comments, thankfully saying said thing after swallowing her bite of food. “But I don’t know about you, but I don’t think I’d ever give up the chance of eating meat! It’s just so damn good~”
I couldn’t resist the opportunity. “Even though you never ate meat before you became a Bearer?” I point out with a smirk.
She glares at me. “Hey, just because my biology was different before, it doesn’t make it any less different now.” Her free clawed hand clenches. “You saying that my opinions mean less due to the fact that I was-”
“Why don’t you both finish eating so we can be on our way sooner?” Iniko speaks up in a serious tone before giving me a glare. “Because right now we are kinda using up precious time.”
“Hmph, very well.” I snort before resuming my feasting.
Miyako holds her glare on me, but ultimately decides to drop the subject as well. “Sure, whatever...”
---
After finishing our meal and cleaning ourselves up, we’ve resumed our travelling and actually made very good progress towards the town. As of currently the forest we’re in is already thinning, thus meaning that we’re getting close.
“So Richard Dick is located just outside this forest?” Miyako asks to no one in particular, her arms crossed behind her head.
“It’s...called Richmond.” Iniko slowly replies, trying to contain her own laughter. “And yes. Outside the forest is nothing but grasslands along with a big river. Richmond is built beside said river, which I assume is where they get a good source of their food. The place is fairly hilly as well, but we should be able to see the place the moment we step out of the woods.”
I’m currently just staring at Miyako. To confuse ‘Richmond’ with ‘Richard Dick’... Feeling the energies coming from her, I knew it was intentional, so the only reason I can think of is...
She looks at me, a smirk quite plain on her face.
Yeah, she’s definitely doing this to annoy me. What makes it worse is the fact that she’s succeeding.
“Speaking of which, we’re very close!” Iniko speaks up, drawing my attention away from the infuriating dragon rabbit and towards the path in front of us.
As the Medicham said, the forest ahead seems to stop short. After we pass through, the scenery ahead of us changes drastically.
Before my eyes are nothing but rolling hills of green. The landscape is covered all over with deep emerald blades of grass, and scattered among the earth are several late-blooming flowers. The sky is relatively clear, leaving a rich blue to properly compliment the scene, making it almost seem like a work of art.
This...is definitely nothing like our home isle, where it’s nothing but forest.
“Whoa...” Miyako says in awe, voicing my own thoughts as well.
“That...truly is quite a sight.” Iniko agrees breathlessly.
Seeing that this alone is enough to make all of us catch our breath? I seriously need to speak with Xiomara once we return. We really are missing out on a lot of things by staying on that isle for so long, I’m sure that the others would be more than happy to see something as simple yet beautiful as this.
“And there it is!” Iniko shouts, pointing into the distance with a finger. “The town is just ahead!”
Having my gaze follow the direction she’s gesturing, I do indeed see several buildings just poking out from the hills.
“Last one there has to volunteer to be part of Seikani’s next experiment!” Miyako laughs before dashing towards the town, each bound of her feet causing earth to spray into the air as her form propels itself across the hills, not unlike that of a living bullet.
“Miyako-” Iniko starts to shout before sighing. “Great... Hopefully she won’t cause too much of a problem before we get there.”
I instead grind my teeth together. “I swear... If she causes any sort of trouble before we arrive, I will make her regret it.”
Iniko looks at me nervously. “Uh, well...Hopefully it won’t come to that, let’s hurry and catch up to her!” She says hastily before running after the Lopunny.
With a growl I follow suit, images of me thrashing Miyako flashing in my mind.
---
It took us a good several minutes before we reached the town. Besides my violent thoughts involving Miyako, the first thing that came to my mind is to say that it looks rather...quaint.
Thatched roofs, walls made of wood boards or logs, smooth dirt roads... It...definitely reminds me of the buildings I used to live in before I became a Bearer of Reshiram’s Power. The only difference in this town though are the lampposts scattered around the place, each of them housing a glass jar with an unlit candle inside.
Placed around the square of the town are various stalls, Pokemon of all shapes and sizes selling food and supplies that you’d only find in a place like this. Seeing that this is a small town in the middle of nowhere, I quite doubt that they actually use any normal form of currency.
...Not that we have any to begin with. Probably something we need to discuss with Orabelle and Zenoclio when they pop by for the next meeting.
Another thing I notice involving the various townfolk is that...well, they’re staring at us.
“I see Miyako.” Iniko whispers to me, gesturing to the side.
My gaze immediately turns to the direction, my face transforming into a scowl. Said expression quickly dissipates once I see what Miyako is doing.
Currently she’s sitting on a wooden bench, surrounded by children. From my current distance I can’t tell what’s exactly going on, but from what I can assume? She’s...merely talking with them.
As the two of us approach her and get closer, we discover that she’s answering the various questions they’re asking her.
“-so you’re part Zekrom?! Do you have lightning powers?!” One of them eagerly asks her.
“Sure can! Watch!” She laughs before pinching two claws together, causing a blue spark of electricity to arc between the two appendages.
The collective young audience immediately let out a chorus of ‘Oohs’, ‘whoas’, and ‘wows’, completely enraptured by the simple display.
Noticing us approaching, Miyako dispels the energy before waving at us. “Ey, ‘bout time you both came here!” She turns to the children before gesturing to us. “And here they are~ These two are the sisters of mine that I told you about.”
One of them raises their hand before asking, “They’re your sisters? But they don’t look anything like you!”
“Sisters are merely something we call ourselves. We’re not directly related.” Iniko answers their question gently.
“Why do you call yourselves that?” Another child asks.
This time I speak up, albeit in a guarded tone. “That...is something we can answer for another time. Do your parents know that you’re speaking with strangers?”
Collectively they all start looking at each other nervously, but eventually one of them does speak up. “Yes...?”
Even without my Reshiram powers that allow me to detect deceit, I can fully tell that they’re lying due to their obviously guilty face and tone.
“I would best advise that you go to them, otherwise you will get in trouble.” I respond flatly.
Although there were a few scattered protests, a stern glare was enough for them to scatter.
“Killjoy.” Miyako complains before standing up from the bench.
“We’re on a mission, Miyako.” I growl at her. “There’s no time for this.”
“Hey, I was merely waiting for you guys.” She shoots back with her own glare. “Not to mention there’s no harm in talking with people. I mean, I interact with you guys all the time. It’s actually nice to talk with someone that’s new!” She turns to Iniko. “No offense, that is.” She turns to me. “In your case? Full offense.”
My eyes twitch.
“Can you both...not?” Iniko hisses angrily, visibly controlling her tone. “Like, not here? In public? Where everyone is watching?” She tilts her head both left and right, drawing our eyes to the surrounding townsfolk.
Who are staring at us...and also murmuring to themselves.
Taking a sharp breath, I let out a sigh. “...Understood.”
Miyako rubs the back of her head sheepishly. “Yeah yeah... Understood.”
“Good.” Iniko sighs, relieved. “Now I recommend going around and asking about the phenomenon. If you find anything of importance, come back here.”
“What if people asks questions in turn? Like about us?” Miyako speaks up.
Before I’m given the chance to say anything, Iniko quickly responds. “If they have questions? Feel free to answer. Obviously hiding our identity isn’t much of a priority here.” She brushes a lock of blue hair over her shoulder. “Not to mention it’d give the people here a chance to become more familiar with us, which should help us in gathering information.”
Miyako gives a thumbs up. “Gotcha~”
“So if there’s no other questions, let's split up?” She half asks half says, looking at the both of us.
“Yup~” The Lopunny chuckles before turning and walking away.
I merely nod and choose the opposite direction Miyako went, leaving Iniko behind to select her own path.
Interacting with the populace of the outside world, huh? This...is definitely gonna take some getting used to...
[Time: 1 Day From Present Time]
[Location: Unknown Isle]
[PoV: Iniko]
“So... Although I know of what our main goal is, I don’t believe you’ve informed us on where exactly we’re going.” I point out to Zenoclio as I walk down the forest path, said Primarina currently floating through the air aside me.
Currently the two of us are heading to the meeting place again, since Miyako told earlier me earlier that Yinomi managed to find Orabelle and drag her back to said place where we will be gathering.
“Hmmm, it seems I did neglect to mention that...” Zenoclio hums to herself, twirling her hair with a clawed finger. “The landmass you will be heading to is called Separatia, I believe that you have been there before.”
The name makes me cock an eyebrow at her. “Separatia? As in the giant landmass that’s separated into two countries? Progria and Evolutia, right?”
She nods her head. “You would be correct, although it has definitely changed since the last time you and Quintoria visited there. Currently Pokemon and Humans have completely segregated themselves now, so I can guarantee you won’t find any Humans in Evolutia or vice versa.”
I hum thoughtfully. “Which country will we be going to?”
“Evolutia, thankfully.” She responds. “It would be immensely difficult if the location of the breach was in Progria, but that won’t be the case.” A smile forms on her lips, causing some of her fangs to poke out. “The location in question is in the northeast of Evolutia. I still haven’t pinpointed the location of it, but I’m betting it’s near a town called Richfield.”
“Northeast? If my memory serves me right, there were no settlements within that part of Evolutia at the time of my first visit.” I muse to myself. “So if you say that there’s a town called Richfield there, then it means that the Pokemon must have extended their civilization pretty far.” A giggle escapes me. “It feels quite exciting to see how much of it has changed~”
“Don’t get your hopes up too much.” Zenoclio laughs. “After consulting with Xio, the towns located in that area seem to be more ‘traditional’. Compared to a lot of the bigger cities in the southern regions of Evolutia, these towns aren’t advanced in terms of technology.” Her deep pink eyes narrow as her smile turns into a smirk. “The chances of any of those towns having electricity is drastically low.”
I give her a deadpan look. “And that’s a bad thing? Clio, you do realize that we don’t have much in terms of ‘modern’ technology here, right?” I brush one of the long strands of my blue hair over my shoulder. “The best we have are a few generators that we got from the outside, and that’s only so we can power the few electronics we have.”
The Primarina turns to look at me, her smirk threatening to burst into a full-blown grin. “I’m saying this so you don’t get your hopes up. You think I don’t know that you’ve been wanting batteries for your stuff as of late~?”
Instantly I feel my face flush. “Hey! We all know that they run out of power fast!” I shout indignantly.
“They only burn through so quickly because your ‘little’ sessions last for several hours at a time~” She shoots back.
“It’s not my fault that I have yet to unlock the true ending...” I mutter to myself, averting my gaze.
The rest of the walk - or flight in Zenoclio’s case - was in relative silence, mostly due to my embarrassment. Thankfully we were already fairly close at that point, so we arrived to the gathering of willows in no time.
The sound of arguing voices become quite evident behind the wall of vegetation. After sharing a confused look with Zenoclio, we brushed the vines aside and stepped into the clearing within...
...only to see Orabelle and Yinomi arguing, with Miyako lounging on the large rock in the center - obviously enjoying the spectacle.
“-for the last time, we are not getting you a souvenir!” Yinomi growls.
“Hey, it’s the least you can do!” Orabelle shouts back, gritting her teeth. “I’m not allowed to go as it is, so I want you to get me a few things that I’m wanting as compensation!”
Although we only just arrived, it was a no-brainer to know what this argument was about. Looking at Zenoclio, I can quite clearly tell that she wants this spat to end just as much as I do.
“Both of you, enough!” Zenoclio yells, causing them both to look at her.
“But-” Orabelle starts, only for the Primarina to cut her off.
“This is not like one of those ‘errands’, Orabelle.” Zenoclio continues, her tone giving no room for argument. “This is an important task. A mission. Their job is to figure out the location of this portal and obtain any information on what came through.” She crosses her arms. “They won’t have any time for sightseeing or shopping for trinkets.”
From the corner of my eyes I notice Miyako perk up at this. She opens her mouth to protest, only to close it after looking conflicted.
Whatever conflictions Miyako had seemed to have settled, since said Lopunny decides to speak up now. “Uhh, Clio?” This causes said Primarina to turn and look at her.
The gaze of the Sister of Palkia causes Miyako to shrink back slightly, but she still pushes on. “After...we finish with the whole job and figure out that sort of stuff involving the portal, would we be able to at least get a few things before we return?”
At this Zenoclio looks thoughtful as she thinks over her response, only to let out a sigh in the end. “If you find everything that there is to know? I don’t see why not, I doubt Xiomara would object.”
With this answer, Miyako grins widely and turns to Orabelle. “You hear that? Once we get this thing over and done with, we’ll bring a few things back for you. Alright?”
The Gothitelle grins widely, her energy returning tenfold. “Totally!” She laughs, the two giving each other a fist-bump.
I can only raise an eyebrow at the two of them. Knowing Miyako, this definitely isn’t common behavior when it comes to interacting with Orabelle.
What is she up to?
Actually? Scratch that. Whatever it is, I doubt I want to know.
“Alright!” Zenoclio speaks up, drawing all of our attention back to her. “Any last questions? Any concerns? Otherwise, it is best for all of you to depart now.”
“I have an inquiry.” Yinomi speaks up, albeit hesitantly “Will we need some form of disguise during our time there?”
The Primarina chuckles. “Surprisingly? No. After discusing with Xiomara, it looks like none of you will need to hide your identity there. All knowledge of us is not widespread and is quite limited. If the locals do figure out who you are, it shouldn’t cause too much of an issue for us in the future.” She shrugs her shoulders. “It also helps that the chances of encountering a Human there is next to impossible, especially one who would cause any problems.”
Yinomi nods slowly, looking relieved. “To deceive is to go against my nature, so I’m glad to know that we won’t be doing such a thing.”
“If disguises were necessary, we wouldn’t have asked you to go along in the first place, Yinomi.” Zenoclio chuckles.
“I have a question too, where exactly will we be going?” Miyako asks the Primarina.
“That...I’ll leave to Iniko.” She responds back. “I already explained to her the general gist of it, so she’ll tell you about everything I told her.” Her gaze turns to Orabelle. “Assuming that’s it for questions, now’s the time.”
Understanding the message, Orabelle pulls off one of the gold rings that adorn her body. Said ring floats into the air and enlarges in size, becoming big enough for any of us to walk through without difficulty. Although the inside of the ring doesn’t look like anything, we know for a fact that the portal is already up.
“Too late to change your minds now!” Miyako shouts, laughing loudly as she practically dives through the ring, vanishing on the other side.
Yinomi rolls her eyes, however in the end she starts chuckling. “I’ll try to keep her under control~” She says before stepping through the portal.
Before I take my own turn, I look to Zenoclio. “I do have one last question, actually.” I voice. “To clarify, which times will Orabelle be checking in again?”
“Seventeen hundred, on the dot.” The Gothitelle-Hoopa hybrid answers before Zenoclio gets the chance. “Or Five PM, if you don’t understand the twenty-four hour schedule~”
“Yes...” The Primarina agrees slowly, before adding: “However if you find anything of importance or if you wish to contact us again sooner, we can arrange for additional meeting times when Orabelle reaches out to you.”
Satisfied with this, I nod my head and step through the portal. With that action, my surroundings change.
Or...at least, they changed slightly. Turns out we traded one forest for another, although this one mostly consists of pines. The air is also noticeably colder here, perhaps due to the fact that winter is coming soon.
Turning my gaze, I notice that Miyako is currently laying on the ground, nursing her head with a claw.
“That’s what you get for acting recklessly.” Yinomi purrs, unable to contain her smile as she stands over the Lopunny-Zekrom hybrid.
“Up yours, Yinomi.” Miyako merely growls in response.
Lifting my gaze, I notice that one of the pine trees has a rather large hole in its trunk. It didn’t take me long to put together the fact that Miyako slammed right into it head-first after she dove through the portal.
“Hopefully this won’t be a common thing...” I mutter to myself.
