Had he missed a head injury somehow? No, he would have noticed it by then.

Volo continued to stare at Rei, eyebrows furrowed, as if staring long enough would give his memories back.

"You don't know who I am?" Rei asked, carefully keeping his expression neutral.

If Volo saw that he knew who Volo was, Rei had no doubt the ex-merchant would bombard him with questions he wasn't sure Volo wanted the answer to.

After staring a few moments longer, Volo shook his head. "Should I?"

Rei frowned, considering his next moves.

Volo was still injured and it would take a while for him to heal, leaving Volo's health and protection in Rei's hands. Being amnesiac didn't automatically absolve Volo of the crimes he committed. Rei doubted anyone who wanted justice after the Frenzied Nobles and Red Sky Incident would care about Volo's physical or mental state.

Maybe I can bring Cogita into this? Rei thought.

Rei still wasn't sure what exactly the relationship was between her and Volo, whether they were blood family or she took him in because his parents died. Her reaction to Volo's attempt at controlling Arceus had been negative, so Rei decided she probably wasn't going to be eager to watch him.

Volo looked down at his clothes, pushing the sleeves back to stare at the fresh bandages covering his arm. A strange expression crossed his face when he saw the bowl of bloody water and discarded bandages in the corner that Rei had left in the corner of the room from earlier in the day after changing Volo's bandages.

Whatever was going through his head transferred to Sigilyph who released an agitated screech, flapping its wings.

"Were you the one...?"

Rei could tell that whatever Volo was thinking--probably that Rei hurt him, felt guilty, and healed him--was making Volo agitated which made Sigilyph more distressed.

No psychic energy rippled off Sigilyph and it settled for glaring venom at Rei, hovering close to Volo.

Volo was getting the wrong idea and Rei did not want to make it worse.

"Okay, okay." Rei set down the food, pushing it closer to Volo. "I'm going to go out for a bit and let you calm down. You stay right here, okay?"

Standing, Rei went to the door and slipped on his shoes. He removed the barrier and set it against the wall.

No one entered another's house without permission, so Rei didn't have to ask AC or the other Rotom to set the barrier in place as he left.

Rei stepped outside and slid the door closed behind him. A few of the shops were shuttered for lunch and Wallflower was busy. Several people were eating lunch on the bench outside, chatting amongst each other, while others ate at the little tables inside.

Part of Rei was tempted to sneak out the back way to avoid all the people, but he needed others to see him to lessen the chance of someone knocking on his door to see if he was home. It wouldn't be great if Volo answered the knock.

"Hey, Rei!" Ress greeted, smiling brightly as Rei approached. "Haven't seen you in a while."

"I've been busy," Rei responded, walking past Ress.

It wasn't technically a lie, but not the entire truth either.

"Oh, wait!" Ress called. "Adaman's been wanting to talk to you--"

"I'll be back later."

"Oh." Ress' shoulder slumped. Rei didn't seem to be in the mood to listen. "I'll just tell him to wait for you then."

Outside the village, halfway between the Fieldlands Camp and Jubilife, Rei whistled for Wyrdeer.

Moments later, Wyrdeer trotted up. Upon seeing Rei, Wyrdeer perked up.

Rei chuckled when Wyrdeer bumped their heads together. He rubbed Wyrdeer's neck. "I'm glad to see you too."

Wyrdeer stared at Rei with a slight pout, snorting.

"I'm fine. Better, I guess."

Wyrdeer appeared satisfied with the answer, stepping back and kneeling on the ground.

Rei wasn't even sure where he wanted to go. He had just wanted to give Volo some space, but now that he was out, he wanted answers.

The red chains around Volo's wrists and neck bothered Rei. They couldn't be related to the Lake Trio. The chain was only meant to bind the Pokémon that emerged from the Rift atop Mt. Coronet and it had snapped only for the pieces to be forged into the Origin Ball.

Volo's amnesia was also troubling. While Rei could believe it was a result of the trauma he had endured from whatever had attacked him and his team at Turnback Cave, surely that didn't mean Volo would lose all of his memories.

All of the questions Rei held led back to the Lake Trio. While he could go to the closest lake--Lake Verity--and ask Mesprit, Rei knew that he would get the straightest answer from Uxie.

Lake Acuity it was.

Rei climbed into Wyrdeer's saddle. "Lake Acuity."

Wyrdeer clambered to his feet then galloped towards Alabaster Icelands.

The Icelands were still freezing, wind and snow biting at any exposed skin, and Snowpoint Temple loomed in the distance, towering over the Pearl Clan's little hamlet.

Buneary and Aipom scattered as Wyrdeer cantered past.

Standing on a ledge of ice jutting from the ground, a Zoroark howled. It leaped from its perch moments later and raced off.

The Zoroark was sprinting towards a limping Lucario in the distance. Three small Riolu trailed behind it.

"Wyrdeer, come on!" Rei yelled, yanking Wyrdeer's reigns to change his course.

The moment Wyrdeer saw what Rei wanted to do, he snorted and reared on his hind legs. Psychic energy covered his body when he dropped down. Wyrdeer tossed his head then cantered, the energy boosting his speed.

Lucario's ears twitched when it heard the approaching Zoroark. It turned towards the Zoroark, ushering the Riolu behind its legs. Ears pinned back and baring its teeth, Lucario snarled.

Snickering, Zoroark's body wavered before splitting into several more Zoroark, surrounding Lucario and its pups.

Lucario glanced at the Zoroark, appendages hanging from the back of its head vibrating as it began scoping out the real Zoroark.

Zoroark tackled Lucario from the side, pinning it to the ground. Zoroark's lips peeled back as it opened its jaws, lunging towards Lucario’s neck.

"Dark Pulse, Wisp!"

Zoroark screeched as dark energy blasted it off Lucario and sent it skidding across the snowy ground.

The copies of Zoroark surrounding the cowering Riolu vanished.

Shaking its head, Zoroark snarled as it stumbled back to its feet, glaring at Rei.

Wyrdeer skidded to a stop in front of the Riolu as Rei jumped from his saddle.

Wisp glowered at Zoroark, form rippling.

"Go get your meal somewhere else!"

For several moments, Zoroark didn't move and Rei expected a battle. Then Zoroark growled, baring its teeth as it slunk backward then disappeared in a wisp of ghostly energy.

Rei sighed, relaxing his stance. "Good job, Wisp."

Wisp flickered with a small, whistling moan as Rei returned to them to their Poké Ball.

Rei turned to see the three Riolu surrounding Lucario as it shakily got to its feet.

"Lucar. Car." Lucario patted the Riolu to show them it was fine then stared at Rei.

Rei did not approach and remained a respectful distance from Lucario.

Lucario's ears flicked before it set a paw against its chest and inclined its head.

Rei returned the gesture and Wyrdeer bowed his head.

"Car." Lucario turned and limped away, the Riolu following behind it.

The direction Lucario and its pups were heading was towards the hot spring, possibly to help its injured leg.

Rei had only seen the bow gesture once before with Volo's Lucario. He had bowed at Rei after a battle between him and Ace ended up in a tie. After asking Volo what the gesture meant, Volo had admitted he didn't know but thought it was perhaps a sign of respect. Lucario rarely gave it and it was a good rule of thumb that if a Lucario did bow to return it so as not to offend them.

Lucario had been thanking Rei for his assistance in protecting its pups.

Normally, Rei was the type to let nature take its course, but the Zoroark didn't have a Zorua pup by its side and was alone rather than in a pack. There was no way it could eat a Lucario and three Riolu by itself. There was bound to be waste.

Rei did not like Pokémon or humans that killed for pleasure.

Wyrdeer bumped into Rei's shoulder with a soft snort, shaking him out of his thoughts.

"Right."

Some days, Rei could see the benefit of Volo’s thinking. Perhaps the world did need a cleanse, a new slate. Would that new world take away the strife of living? Erase those who brought suffering to others? Rei wasn't so sure about that. Humans would always be humans; greedy and selfish and weak. Pokémon would always be Pokémon; fighting for survival against themselves and humans who feared and abused them. A new world wouldn't change base instincts.

Shaking his head, Rei climbed into Wyrdeer's saddle and continued his trek towards Lake Acuity.

Several Rufflet perched in a barren tree, watching Rei with beady eyes as Rei and Wyrdeer approached the lake. A Sneasel was digging into the ground, searching for something.

Wyrdeer slowed to a stop by the lake's shore and Rei slid down from the saddle. He saw someone standing by the lake's shore.

"Sabi?" Rei approached the young Warden. "What are you doing here?"

"I saw you were coming, so I decided to wait." Sabi smiled, holding her hands behind her back. "See, even Lord Basculegion is waiting."

From beneath the cold surface of the lake, Basculegion emerged, expression sour.

Rei wasn't sure what Basculegion was upset about. Waiting for so long in the cold waters? The water shouldn't bother him with his ghost typing.

"Thanks."

Sabi rocked on her heels, watching Rei get into the saddle on Basculegion's back. "Soooo....how's Volo?"

Rei snapped his head towards Sabi who was smiling innocently. He almost wondered how she knew about Volo, but then remembered she claimed to be clairvoyant.

Rei didn't doubt her claims like a lot of people; he had seen some of her visions come true, which could have been mere coincidence. Fate was just chance, after all.

"He's fine." Rei looked away from Sabi. Sometimes staring at her too long made it feel like she was staring into his soul. "He woke up today."

"I'm glad he survived." Sabi ran her gloved hand through her braid. "There's a lot in store for him."

Rei was about to tap Basculegion so they could swim to Acuity Cave, but he stopped as a question popped into his head.

"Hey, Sabi, can I ask you something?"

Sabi tilted her head with a curious hum.

"The spring in the Coastlands. What do you know about it?"

"The one with Turnback Cave?" Sabi rested her chin in her hand, staring at the ground. "I know Iscan hates it a lot. He says it gives him the creeps."

That was fair enough since it was Giratina's hideout and Iscan was terrified of ghost types.

"Palina said the Pearl Clan believes that cave is where the deceased go to journey to the afterlife."

"I see." Rei stared at the still water of the lake. The only ripples disrupting the calm surface spread out from Basculegion with the rising and falling of his chest.

Part of Rei had considered that Volo had been inside Turnback cave to try and lure Giratina back to his side, but now he wasn't so sure. If the Pearl Clan believed it was somehow a barrier between their world and the afterlife, then perhaps Volo knew that as well with his vast knowledge of Hisui.

Rei shook his head to get the thought out of his brain. He did not want to continue thinking about the implication of why Volo had been there.

"Thanks for your help, Sabi." Rei lightly tapped Basculegion's side with his heel.

Basculegion flicked his tail, swimming towards Acuity Cave.

"Good luck!" Sabi called, waving her arm above her head.

Basculegion turned to the side as he slowed to a stop at the shore to the cave.

Rei pulled himself out of the saddle, being careful not to let his feet touch the water.

Basculegion was good about making certain his passenger didn't get wet if he could help it.

Rei kneeled by Basculegion, setting a hand on the Lord's slimy forehead. "Do you mind staying out here?"

Basculegion shook his head. "Sculegion. Bascu."

"I'll try not to be long." Rei stood and entered the cave.

Inside, it looked the same as always. Uxie's psychic energy hung in the air, fresh and rippling slightly.

"Uxie, come out!"

For several moments, nothing happened. Then Uxie appeared before Rei, hovering in front of him.

Young Rei, Uxie said, calm as always. What do I owe the pleasure?

"Drop the formalities. What did you do to Volo?"

Uxie tilted their head. The Defiler? You already have the answer, do you not?

Rei clenched his hands and gritted his teeth, anger sparking through his veins.

So Uxie had erased Volo’s memories. If Uxie had done something to Volo, then that meant Mesprit and Azelf did as well. The three never did things by themselves.

"What did Azelf and Mesprit do?"

Uxie remained quiet for a while, tails flicking as they continued to stare at Rei.

Mesprit attached the Red Chain to him.

Those chains were the same Red Chain used to bind Dialga. If the Chain restricted and kept Dialga calm enough to capture them, what did the Chain do when attached to a human?

"What does it do?"

Why don't you ask Mesprit? Uxie leaned back in the air. The energy around them sparked with indifference. They're always doing something with emotions.

Of course Rei couldn't ask Uxie to understand a thing about emotions or willpower. They were just one third of a whole.

Other than being fused with his skin, the Red Chain didn't seem to be causing Volo pain.

Taking a deep breath in order to calm his rising emotions, Rei asked, "What about Azelf?"

They gave the Defiler's Pokémon a chance to leave him. Uxie shook their head, emitting a disappointed noise. They refused. Such loyalty to someone like him. Baffling.

A sliver of dread raced up Rei's spine.

Had the Lake Trio been the ones to slaughter Volo's Pokémon? It made sense. Minor Almighty and Almighty Pokémon had more energy, allowing a wider pool of moves to be used. Much more than a regular, run of the mill Pokémon like a Togekiss or Garchomp.

"Are you telling me that you three killed his Pokémon because they refused to abandon him?"

A flickering flame of anger was beginning to burn in the pit of Rei's stomach.

"Is that why Volo got hurt?"

Had Volo tried to protect his Pokémon from the Lake Trio? Had he tried to leave only to have them lash out at him?

This novel's true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

Lord Arceus ordered us to punish the Defiler for his transgressions, Uxie said. We used our judgment on how to punish him.

"He could have died."

Uxie remained silent for several moments before saying, Having him perish wasn't our intent, but if he had, then it would be the Will of Arceus.

Something in Rei snapped. He grabbed Blaze's Poké Ball and tossed it up.

"Infernal Parade!"

Blaze roared as he was released, magenta flames ringing his neck flaring up before fading to a bright blue. Balls of flames shot towards Uxie, coated in ghostly energy.

Uxie raised their hand. Light Screen appeared in front of them and the flames bounced off, dissipating into steam.

Blaze snarled, taking a step towards Uxie. Azure flames flickered at the corners of his mouth.

Uxie dropped their hand and the Light Screen vanished. They tilted their head.

I don't understand. Why are you vexed at me? Surely you would have been happy without the Defiler's existence.

"You took away his memories!" Rei snarled. "His Pokémon!"

Blaze's muzzle peeled back, exposing his fangs, waiting for an order to tear into Uxie. The flames on the back of his neck burned brighter.

Uxie's expression changed to confusion. He tried to take everything from you.

"And he failed! Because Arceus took everything from me!" Rei glared at Uxie, focusing his rage towards the Lake Guardian rather than the sensation of hot tears pricking at the corners of his eyes. He took a deep, shaky breath. "I guess that's another thing Arceus feels inclined to take. Humans are just a means to an end to them."

I do not understand why you are so emotional over the Defiler.

Rei swallowed around the tightness in his throat, closing his eyes. "No, I suppose you wouldn't."

He turned and walked out of the cave.

Blaze watched him leave before he growled at Uxie, spitting a flame at the ground before following Rei.

Outside, Rei inhaled the frozen air of the Icelands, letting it extinguish the fire inside him. He had gotten his answers, yet he didn't feel satisfied.

Arceus had ordered the Lake Guardians to punish Volo, possibly intending Volo's death. Volo had survived only because Rei had been at the right place at the right time. Fate, one would say.

Rei didn't know what the Red Chains did and he did not want to bother asking Mesprit about them. He was too drained emotionally to be led around by the sprite's mischievous attitude and cryptic words.

"Tyyy..." Blaze dropped his chin on Rei's shoulder, licking his cheek.

Rei reached up to rub Blaze's ear, staring at the cloudy sky that teased snow. "I guess we should head back."

"Ty."

Rei returned Blaze to his Poké Ball then got onto Basculegion's saddle.

The Lord turned and swam back to the lake's opposite shore.

Sabi was still waiting by the shore alongside Wyrdeer.

Wyrdeer was pawing at the ground to uncover hidden green grass, ripping the tasty blades from the ground to chew on.

"Are you doing okay?" Sabi asked as Rei got off Bscluegion.

Basculegion grumbled, sinking beneath the water to return to his den in the far warmer waters of the Coastlands.

"Yeah, I'm fine," Rei said, giving a faint smile.

Even as Rei tried to convince himself he was fine, the words felt like a lie.

"I should get back." Rei went to Wyrdeer, climbing into the saddle.

Sabi nodded in understanding. "All right. Say hi to Adaman for me."

Wyrdeer broke into a canter, making his way back towards Jubilife.

Rei stopped Wyrdeer just outside of the gates, sliding down from the saddle. He patted Wyrdeer's neck in thanks then walked into the village.

He didn't know what to do. Even with the slim answers he had gotten from Uxie--what had happened to Volo's team, why he had no memories, and the Red Chains around his neck and wrists--it still left Rei taking care of Volo until he was well enough to travel.

What then? Rei couldn't really stash Volo in a remote corner of Hisui. That wasn't fair to him. Everyone, though, was out for Volo in one way or another for his role in the Frenzies, rifts, and Red Sky. Even if they were just rumors, people wanted to have a physical being to pin the blame on and Volo was in a vulnerable state, making an easy target for their aggression.

Rei ran a hand down his face with a groan. For now, what he could do was continue to take care of Volo until he was better. Rei would figure out the next step at a later date.

Rei stumbled to a stop when he spotted someone standing in front of his house, knocking on his door. Sitting by his feet were three Eeveelutions, watching their owner.

Shit. What was Adaman doing there?

Rei wasn't sure if the rumors had reached the clans yet and he did not have the energy to find out if they had. If Adaman found out Rei was hiding Volo in his house, it was not going to end well.

He needed to get into his house so he could get Adaman to leave. The only way was through the window in his bedroom.

As Rei was about to dart between the houses so he could get behind them, Adaman spotted him.

"Rei, there you are!"

Shit!

"Ah, hey, Adaman." Rei walked closer to Adaman. "What are you doing here?"

"I came to see how you were doing, but I guess you're doing better since you're out of your house."

"Y-yeah, I'm doing fine. Better."

Adaman hummed, expression turning doubtful as he folded his arms over his chest. "I learned you had returned from Sinnoh Temple kind of down."

"I guess." Rei shrugged.

"I went up there with Warden Ingo a few days ago."

Rei tensed before he hunched his shoulders, avoiding eye contact with Adaman. "You did?"

He hadn't really wanted anyone to see his tantrum atop Mt. Coronet.

"You left this there." Adaman held out the Celestica Flute. "I figured you would want it back."

"Oh." Rei took the offered flute, gripping it in his hands. "Thanks."

Adaman's expression softened. "We're all worried about you, Rei."

"I'm fine, really," Rei muttered, keeping his gaze anywhere but at Adaman. "I just need a bit more time to myself."

"Akari is especially worried about you."

Adaman knew right where to hit where it hurt.

Akari was important to Rei. She was the first friend he had in Hisui. The one who made his heart ache and the one who made Hisui feel like home.

Guilt gnawed deep into his bones, but Rei couldn't just abandon Volo and risk others finding out where he was. If it meant pushing others away until he could find a safe place for Volo, then so be it.

"I'm sorry," Rei said, his voice cracking slightly. "I really am, but I just need more time alone."

Adaman closed his eyes as he nodded. "I see."

Silence stretched between them and Rei wondered if that was enough to get Adaman to leave.

Adaman stared at Rei for several more moments before he turned and grabbed the door to Rei's house.

Rei gasped, dropping the Celestica Flute as Adaman began to open the door.

"Adaman, wait!"

Thyme, Eon, and Tempo all slipped between Adaman's legs and the doorframe, sneaking inside.

"You can't go inside!" Rei grabbed Adaman around the waist, using all of his strength to try and stop Adaman from entering his house.

"Why not?!" Adaman didn't seem fazed by Rei's additional weight clinging to him, stepping past the threshold. "What are you hiding?"

Adaman staggered to a stop when he saw Volo sitting in the bedroom, Sigilyph hovering beside him.

Thyme, Eon, and Tempo all surrounded him. Thyme and the other two were curiously sniffing Volo. Eon and Tempo occasionally gave growling hisses at whatever they smelled. Eon's tail bristled.

Rei released Adaman so he could shut the door, replacing the barrier. It was already bad enough Adaman had barged in; he didn't need anyone else to do the same.

"Wh--" Adaman pointed at Volo who was staring at the Eeveelutions in confusion.

Volo held out his hand to Thyme and Thyme sniffed it. When Thyme dipped his head, Volo cautiously rubbed it.

Thyme wagged his tail at the attention.

Eon and Tempo bullied their way onto Volo's lap, demanding their own attention.

Rei slipped around Adaman, positioning himself between the clan leader and Volo, holding up his hands. "Don't freak out."

"I am doing the opposite of freaking out."

"You still look like you're freaking out."

Adaman smiled tightly, crossing his arms. "Rei, are you aware you're hiding a criminal in your house?" He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose as he held up a hand to stop Rei when he opened his mouth. "No, don't answer that. Of course you're aware."

Rei remained silent, waiting for Adaman to continue talking. He lowered his arms, satisfied Adaman wasn't going to try and attack Volo.

"Everyone knows the rumors. They know Volo's connection to the rifts and Frenzies. How he was the cause of the Red Sky Incident. They want justice."

"I know." Rei gripped his fingers, nails digging into the skin. "You don't understand."

Adaman sighed, staring at Rei. Obviously, taking care of Volo was important to him. "Help me understand then."

Rei looked at Adaman. The clan leader was willing to hear him out. Maybe it was for the best Adaman had found out rather than someone like Irida. Rei doubted Irida would have given him a chance to explain.

"I found him in Turnback Cave. He was hurt and his team was..." Rei glanced over his shoulder. He wasn't sure how much he wanted to say within earshot of Volo. "Well..."

Reaching into his pocket, Rei took out the tumblestone necklace he had taken off Garchomp.

Adaman stared at the necklace and his expression said all Rei needed to know. He knew the necklace was from Volo's Garchomp.

"I see." Adaman looked towards Volo. "Does he know?"

Volo was petting Thyme and his siblings, making sure each one got their fair share of attention. Volo grinned as he pet them, rubbing their bellies when they rolled over.

Despite everything, the three seemed fine around him.

"No." Rei shook his head. "He has amnesia. Uxie erased his memories."

Adaman blinked then looked at Rei sharply. "The Lake Guardians attacked him?"

"Arceus ordered them to punish him."

Adaman's eyebrows knit together as he crossed his arms, taking in everything Rei had said. He tapped a finger against his arm. "Rei, why were you in the Coastlands in the first place?"

Rei dropped his gaze to avoid Adaman's intense stare.

"Rei."

Rei hunched his shoulders, grabbing his right arm with his left hand.

Adaman sighed, kneeling and setting a hand on Rei's shoulder. "Don't think about doing that again, all right?"

I would have been fine, was Rei's first thought, but he said, "Okay."

No one knew about his Reset. No one would understand. No one could ever fathom the many deaths and resurrections he had faced, terrifying at first before fading to a dull monotony where death to Rei was laughable. All because Arceus hadn't wanted their tool to break too easily.

"Well." Adaman clapped Rei's shoulder once as he stood. "I suppose you were at the right place at the right time. Almighty Dialga must have aided you."

“I guess.”

Rei wasn't so sure if he believed what Adaman believed: that Dialga had prodded him to the Coastlands on that specific day at that specific time. Why would the Almighty want to help the one who had caused them to rage in the first place?

"So you've been taking care of him by yourself?"

Rei shook his head to clear his thoughts, focusing on Adaman. “For a few days. He woke up a while ago."

"I see." Adaman sighed, ruffling the back of his hair. "All right, I'll help you out."

Rei startled, staring at Adaman. "What?"

"Don't get me wrong. I mainly have selfish reasons for my offer. Amnesiac or not, I still don't trust Volo. Also, you need to come out of your house more often to show everyone that you're all right."

"Uh..."

"We can alternate between caring for Volo's injuries. That should give you enough opportunity to leave the house."

Rei blinked, opening his mouth to deny Adaman's offer before he sighed. Even if he said no, Adaman was stubborn and would do what he wanted anyway. With someone watching the house, it would limit someone coming in and discovering Volo while he was gone.

"Fine," Rei said. "I guess that's fair."

"Great." Adaman grinned then stepped around Rei so he could enter the bedroom.

Volo looked up at Adaman's approach, retracting his hands from Thyme and the others like they had burned him. "Are these your Pokémon?"

"They are." Adaman nodded then pointed to each one in turn. "That's Thyme, Eon, and Tempo."

"Are you his friend?" Volo looked past Adaman at Rei.

"Yeah. That's Rei." Adaman kneeled in front of Volo. “He's the one who helped your injuries.”

“Oh.” Volo glanced down at the bandages wrapped around his arm. “I didn't know.”

Adaman held out a hand. "I'm Adaman, leader of the Diamond Clan. You can just call me Adaman."

Volo stared at the offered hand before slowly reaching a hand towards Adaman.

Sigilyph butted its way between them, releasing a grating shriek as it glared at Adaman.

"Protective, aren't you?" Adaman muttered. He scooted back then held up his hands. "See? I'm not going to hurt him."

Sigilyph narrowed its eye more, keeping its position between them.

"That's a Sigilyph," Rei explained. "I found it with Volo."

"They're not native here, I can tell," Adaman said. "It doesn't seem to trust us much."

Rei nodded. "I think it will take a while to gain its full trust."

"I don't think they mean harm to us." Volo set a hand on Sigilyph's side. "They would have done so already."

Sigilyph's expression changed to something akin to a pout before it moved to the side.

"I'm Volo. That's Kai."

"Kai?" Adaman and Rei repeated.

"I thought of it while you were gone." Volo stared at Kai. "I think it means 'protector' or ‘guardian’. I'm not sure what language though."

"It's a good name," Adaman said with a smile. "Very fitting."

Volo glanced at Adaman then dropped his gaze, focusing on once again petting Thyme and his siblings.

Adaman let his gaze wander the room. He hadn't actually been in Rei's room before. Seashells and other trinkets littered the windowsill.

"Did you know that if you put the shells to your ears, you can hear the ocean?" Adaman asked, pointing to the shells.

Volo looked at the shells before he turned his gaze back to Eon who was nipping at Thyme for a turn at pets. "There's a scientific explanation for it."

Adaman smiled as Volo began to explain why the waves of the ocean could be heard in the shells. He had already heard the explanation from Volo months ago, but acted like it was new information.

Rei, who had been leaning against the wall to watch their interactions, pushed off it. "I should go get some more bandages."

"Oh, yeah, go ahead," Adaman said, waving a hand. "I'll stay here and keep Volo company."

"Thanks." Rei headed to the door, glancing over his shoulder.

Despite Kai glaring at him, Adaman had once again moved closer to Volo, sitting a few feet away.

"Want to know why my Eeveelutions are named the way they are?"

"They're time puns," Volo responded dryly, his attention still focused on petting Thyme and his siblings. The corner of his mouth twitched, like he was trying not to smile.

Adaman chuckled. "Nothing gets past you."

AC popped out of the fridge, staring at the scene in the bedroom before looking at Rei with a curious whirr.

"Make sure they don't get into a fight," Rei said, opening the front door.

AC grinned mischievously, ducking back into their home.

Rei headed to Galaxy Hall so he could grab more bandages and medicine from Pesselle. As soon as he closed the door, he bumped into someone.

Cyllene blinked, surprise briefly crossing her face before fading back to her neutral expression. Abra hovered by her side, tail flicking once. "Rei."

"Captain Cyllene." Rei inclined his head.

"I'm glad to see you out of your house." Cyllene crossed her hands behind her back, the papers she held crinkling. "I suspect Clan Leader Adaman finally knocked some sense into you?"

"Something like that." Rei gestured to the papers Cyllene held. "What are those for?"

"I was going to speak with Zisu on a new training regimen Warden Ingo recommended."

Rei tilted his head.

Sometimes, Cyllene liked to talk about what task she was working on and Rei had found she talked more than she let on when given the chance.

Cyllene's stance relaxed slightly. "Warden Ingo suggested something called a Double Battle. Each person uses two Pokémon in the battle or four people face off against each other, two on each side with one Pokémon each."

"Sounds interesting." Rei smiled. "Ingo does have some good ideas for the training grounds."

"They're unorthodox, but yes. Commander Kamado and I agree that these unusual battle styles can help us further understand our relationship with Pokémon."

"I shouldn't keep you then." Rei moved to the side so he could continue towards the infirmary.

Rei could feel Cyllene's gaze on his back.

"Come on, Abra,” Cyllene said. “We should try to get to Zisu before she goes on break."

"Abra," Abra said.

The door to Galaxy Hall opened then closed as the two left.

Pesslle grinned when Rei came into the infirmary. "Good afternoon, Rei! How is that Pokémon?"

"Better. They woke up today."

"I'm so glad!" Pesslle clapped her hands. "Did you need more supplies?"

"A few more bandages and some salve."

"Of course." Pesslle grabbed the supplies from the cabinet, holding them out to Rei. "If you need anything else, don't hesitate to ask me, all right?"

"Thank you for your help." Rei nodded once then turned and left the infirmary.

As he was leaving, Akari came out of Laventon's office. She grinned when she saw Rei.

"Rei!" Akari ran over to him. She stared at the supplies in his hands. "Are you still helping that Pokémon?"

"Something like that."

Akari frowned, worrying the corner of her mouth with her teeth. She shook her head. "I'm glad you're here. Professor Laventon says there's going to be a rare event this evening!"

"An event?" Rei repeated, tilting his head.

"Apparently, a flock of Pokémon native to Unova will be flying over Hisui as they return from their winter migration. We're going to the Coastlands to watch it. Do you want to come watch it with us?"

Rei hesitated. With Adaman watching Volo, he could watch the migration with Akari and Professor Laventon. Adaman did say he wanted Rei to get out more and this was the perfect opportunity.

"Yeah, I guess I can come."

Akari beamed, clapping her hands as she bounced on the balls of her feet. "I'll go tell Professor Laventon!"

Rei smiled as Akari ran back to Laventon's office, a warm sensation surrounding his heart. Leaving Galaxy Hall, Rei made a quick stop by Snips and Clips where Arezu was sitting out front on the bench.

She had a Vulpix laying in her lap, brushing out its fur.

"Aren't you just the cutest thing?" Arezu cooed, picking up the Vulpix to admire it.

Vulpix wagged its six tails, delighted at the attention. "Vul!"

"Hey, Arezu," Rei greeted.

"Rei!" Arezu grinned, holding the Vulpix against her chest. Her smile faded when she saw the state of Rei's hair. "Your hair looks like a Rufflet nest."

"Thanks. Do you think you could come to my place?"

Arezu stared at Rei for several moments before her expression turned to distrust. She leaned back, holding Vulpix tighter until it squeaked.

Rei groaned in frustration. Why was that her immediate reaction to his request? He wasn't interested in her and he already knew she didn't like guys that way. "Not like that! I need you to cut someone's hair for me."

"Why can't they just come here?" Arezu asked, releasing Vulpix when it wiggled in her grip.

Vulpix shook itself then began licking its paw to start grooming.

"They're hurt."

"Oh." Arezu hopped to her feet. "Okay, no problem. Give me a sec."

"Thanks," Rei said as Arezu ducked into the building.

A few moments later she returned with a small basin containing scissors, hairbrushes, and a bottle of shampoo that smelled like Roselia petals and Combee honey.

Arezu followed Rei back to his house, Vulpix trotting by her side.

"Just keep an open mind," Rei said, opening the door.

Arezu raised an eyebrow. "Okay?"

After shutting the door, Rei replaced the barrier. The action was quickly becoming a habit.

In the bedroom, Volo was still sitting on the futon with Kai by his side.

A disgruntled Adaman was in the corner, Thyme and the other two sitting in front of him.

"Why are you wet?" Rei asked, noticing the water dripping off Adaman's hair and clothes.

Adaman pointed at the cabinet AC lived in. "Your crazy Rotom attacked me with ice!"

AC peeked out of the cabinet then gave a nasty snicker as they slunk back inside.

Rei set his free hand on his hip as he gave the cabinet a disapproving glare. "AC, I said to watch him, not harass him."

The cabinet moved slightly in what Rei interpreted as a shrug.

Sighing, Rei set the supplies on the space beside Jules. He glanced over his shoulder to see Arezu staring at Volo with a strange expression on her face, like she wasn't sure how she should feel.

"I already got the lecture from Adaman," Rei said. "So--"

"No." Arezu shook her head. "I'm sorry. I know about the rumors, but I...I don't really put much thought into anecdotal stuff like that. I just never thought his hair was that long."

"Do you think you could help get it under control?”

Arezu snorted, shooting an offended look at Rei. "I can't believe you doubt my skills."

Rei rolled his eyes as Arezu walked into the bedroom. He didn't doubt her skills as a hair stylist at all.

Arezu knelt in front of Volo, setting her supplies by her side. "Hey, Volo."

Volo tilted his head, frowning. "How do you know my name?"

Arezu glanced at Adaman, eyebrows furrowed.

Adaman tapped the side of his head then shook it. That gesture seemed to be all the answer Arezu needed.

"Rei told me your name. I'm Arezu. I was going to get your hair clean."

"Oh." Volo reached up to touch his hair, dry and brittle between his fingers from the blood and dirt. "Thank you."

"No problem. Tempo, can you help me and Vulpix out?"

"Vapor!" Tempo trotted over to Arezu who pointed at the basin after taking out the other supplies.

"Fill it with a little bit of water, please."

As Tempo filled the basin, Volo glanced at Adaman still sitting in the corner.

The clan leader had felt familiar to him, but Volo couldn't place a finger on why. He didn't want to ask Adaman if they did know each other; it felt like the answer would be something he would regret.

"Hey."

Volo startled, leaning back when Arezu appeared in front of his face.

Arezu pointed at his chest. "The necklace. Can you take it off? I'd rather not get it wet."

Necklace?

Volo looked down, reaching into the kimono and pulling out a silver teardrop necklace hanging from a thin chain. He had felt the weight against his chest, but hadn't looked to see what it had been until then.

The necklace was his. It was important to him. That much he knew.

"Little sunshine!"

"Our little sunshine."

"Volo?"

A hand grabbed Volo's shoulder and he reacted by raising his arm to smack it off, leaning away from whoever had grabbed him.

The voices faded, leaving a pounding behind Volo's eyes and buzzing in his ears.

In front of him was Arezu, expression concerned. Her left hand was against her chest.

"Arezu!" Adaman chastised. "Don't scare him."

"Sorry! I didn't know he'd react like that."

Kai hovered closer, eye narrowed.

"Oh..." Volo took off the necklace, but kept it in his hand. "I'm sorry."

"Did you remember something?" Rei asked, leaning against the threshold between the main entrance and the bedroom.

Volo shook his head. "No."

"I didn't mean to startle you," Arezu said softly. "You zoned out even though I was talking to you."

"Sorry," Volo muttered, grip tightening on the necklace and its pendant. He avoided looking at her, embarrassed at his reaction.

"Anyway, let's see if we can't get your hair into better shape."

Volo laid down on his back when Arezu motioned him to, lletting his neck rest on the edge of the basin.

Arezu hummed, using a small cup to scoop up water warmed by Vulpix's flames. She pushed back the bangs covering Volo's left eye as she poured water on his hair. "You know, our clan believes that hair holds memories."

"You do?"

"It's why a lot of us don't cut our hair. Some leave their hair short for personal reasons, like me and Mai. Others never cut their hair, like Sabi and Melli. Adaman cut his hair once when he was a teen, shortly after he transitioned to clan leader."

Volo hummed, closing his eyes as Arezu's fingers attempted to carefully work through any knots or tangles in his hair. She had only started and already his hair felt cleaner and lighter.

"It seems a shame to cut your hair," Arezu muttered. "I've never seen golden hair like yours before."

"Is my hair color that uncommon?"

"I don't know about other regions, but it is here in Hisui." Arezu huffed, hands retreating from Volo's hair. "These knots are impossible. I was hoping to salvage what I could."

"It's all right if you cut it." Volo opened his eyes to look at Arezu. "I don't mind."

"I do." Arezu frowned before she sighed, picking up the scissors. "I'll save as much as I can."

Arezu started cutting Volo's hair, using Vulpix to burn the strands.

"Why do you do that?" Volo asked, remaining still so he wouldn't mess up her work or get stabbed with the scissors.

"When we cut our hair, we burn it to return the memories to Almighty Dialga. The memories live on in their eternal thoughts even when ours fade."

"I'm not part of your clan, though...am I?"

"I don't think Almighty Dialga would mind." Arezu smiled, rubbing her hands through Volo's hair to lather up the shampoo. "Everyone's time is precious to them, whether they're Diamond Clan or not."

"Huh..."

After using Tempo to rinse off Volo's hair, Arezu had Vulpix exhale warm breath to slowly dry it.

"What do you think?" Arezu gestured to the mirror in front of Volo. "I tried not to go too short."

Volo stared at his reflection, reaching up to touch his hair. His head felt lighter without the weight of the tangled, dirty mess he had before. Arezu had cut off a significant portion of hair; now it barely dropped past the base of his skull. She had kept enough length for some of his hair to drop back in front of his left eye.

"I like it."

Arezu grinned, clapping her hands together. "Glad you do. You know who to come to when you want to change up your style."

Volo glanced at her out of the corner of his eye as she stood, gathering all her supplies.

Adaman got to his feet. "I should head back to the clan to get some dry clothes."

"Can I ask you something outside?" Rei asked, following Adaman and Arezu as they walked to the front door. Thyme, Eon, and Tempo trailed after them.

"Sure."

Volo watched them leave before he continued staring at his reflection, running his fingers through his short hair.

The hair felt soft, like downy feathers of a warm body. A faint trilling hum echoed in his ears, warmth surrounding his shoulders like wings as a sensation of peace settled over him.