"Avant Garde! Truly!" Brassius declared loudly as he passed me the badge I had earned. I opened the (super special, custom, gold) case my parents had bought me for my journey, snapping it in place alongside the others. Three of eight, plus a flip-side fit for Unovan badges when I eventually challenge them. Right now, just have Clay's 'unofficial' badge sitting there.
"You weren't too shabby yourself," I said, putting the case away and shaking his hand. "For someone who was only a Gym Leader for a year, you did quite well." Not that I'd be gauche enough to say it, but I'm pretty sure Oberon was hitting me with his full force in our battle too, and I swept him far easier.
Cyan quickly ran up, passing me back my phone. "That was awesome! You've gotten even stronger, Nims."
"Of course," I replied, flexing my arms as if that had anything to do with the 'strength' she was talking about. Naturally, I got an eye roll in response. More sincerely, I continued. "I'm impressed with Phantasm's growth as well."
"Is that the name of your Zoroark?!" A familiar, slightly chubby boy pushed through the crowd, asking me intently.
"Uh, yeah, it is. Hohma, right?" The boy nodded his head, and I internally sighed, knowing I had remembered him and hadn't mixed him up with someone else. That's always so embarrassing.
Answering that seemed to open the floodgates, as a large portion of the crowd rushed me like a horde. So many of them were talking, shouting over top of each other with questions or phrases of praise that it was somewhat overwhelming. Jeez, I hadn't expected this kind of reaction.
Cyan tried to tell them off. "Hey, give her space!" When that failed to work, she released her Kingdra, the appearance of her Dragon making all of them take a step back. The Smokescreen afterward gave us perfect cover to escape, especially since as the smoke cleared, they were all looking along the ground while we had flown away, her atop Kingdra and me with my Aura.
Brassius was the only one who spotted us, and I gave him a cheeky wave as we flew off, landing down behind the new hedge maze. "Thanks," I told Cyan, who nodded, returning her Pokemon.
"No problem; you seemed like you were getting a bit uncomfortable."
"Yeah, nothing like that happened to me before." It might have, at Oberon's Gym, if I hadn't run off. "Did you ever experience anything like that?"
My sister shook her head. "I got a few fans and fellow classmates cheering me on by about my fifth badge, but nothing that big. Then again, I never had a big six-on-six battle in the middle of a festival while showing off a brand new Pokemon and evolution," she retorted with her hands on her hips.
Yeah, guess that is somewhat my fault, though I didn't know that she'd evolve then. But that is the biggest concern I had; mostly all those people were trying to ask questions about Phantasm. We still need to talk before I show her off.
"Maybe they were just fascinated to talk to the author of such a famous and well-respected comic book series?"
"Wha- how did you- Brassius," my sister quickly determined.
"Yup. He actually told me about it being entered in the fair." The stern glare I gave her was only about 40% fake.
"I- I just wanted it to be a fun surprise for you," Cyan pouted, the singular red bang of her hair flopping about.
"That's fine; it's not a big deal. Just, tell me in the future. I don't need a big surprise."
"I suppose I should have known." At my curious look, she said, "At your birthday party? You kinda flipped out over… whatever happened with Friede that led to you getting Phantasm. Are you going to tell everyone where they can find more like-"
"No," I said flatly, my tone indicating I wouldn't budge on this issue. "I do plan on showing her off to the world, even if it means dodging some tough questions, though. Speaking of…" Looking around, I saw that there was no one nearby since we were on the edge of Artazon. "Mind giving us a moment to talk? I can meet you by our comic book display."
She nodded, wandering off back to the fair while I released Phantasm. She stood, taking in the change in scenery, her body slightly hunched over. Is that just natural for her now, or because she's feeling nervous? It fits the game images, but those aren't always fully indicative.
"Hey, let me get a good look at you." She obliged my calm words, slowly turning around. "Wow, you look gorgeous!"
"Really?" I blinked, surprised at the 'words'. They were just an illusion, I knew, but it was an impressive upgrade from before, where she'd have difficulty making the sound that precise. Sounds a bit like me, but slightly deeper in tone.
"Yeah! You look awesome, and those illusions—those are incredible too. People are going to be all over you." There was an awkward pause, and I caught a flash of frustration and confusion in her eyes; her long mane lifted slightly so I could see both of them.
"I made a promise to let people adore you and marvel over your magnificence, etcetera, and I'm going to live up to it. Just means that I'll seem like a jerk when they ask where I got you or how you came to be that way but- but that is fine." I stressed, in response to the low growl she made, clearly upset at even the idea of random strangers thinking badly of me.
Slowly, I offered my hand, and at her acceptance, I ran it through her mane, shivering slightly. Still has that unusual chill to it; gotta test more Ice Type TMs with her. "Your instincts might lead to aggression and hate easier, and that isn't bad, but you do need to learn to control it, ok? Save the viciousness for the truly bad people like those poachers."
She bristled slightly but nodded. "Are you ready to go out and see the world? Or rather, have the world see you? It's ok if you aren't…" Her expression was still somewhat unsure and I added "I'll have your Pokeball on hand if anything flares up, but you seem fine just talking with me."
Admittedly, I'm a lot closer to her, but this is still a stressful topic. We'll take it slowly, just start to get her used to other people and Pokemon outside of battle first. And for the next few Gyms, I'll just have her train with the team, who she knows and can stop her if she goes too far.
"Ark," she replied, standing up a bit straighter. My words seemed to reassure her and now she was eager, mane waving happily.
"Alright then, let's go check out the art. I don't think I even showed you the comics Cyan and I made back when we were home. It's about Spinarak-Man, an average man bitten by a mutated Spinarak who gains incredible powers, and the amazing foes he fights."
Explaining the lore of the series we had adapted, I led her through the festival. Almost the instant we got around the maze, people were pointing at Phantasm and whispering. "They're saying only good things; don't worry," I told her as I noticed her movements get a little stiffer, suddenly nervous.
A little girl (ok, only a few years younger than I was) ran away from her mom and up to us. "Hey, can I pet her?" She asked excitedly. Glancing at Phantasm, I saw her nod, so I gave her the go-ahead. She did so cheerfully, cooing over her and being a bit surprised when she felt how cold Phantasm's mane was.
There were plenty more like her on the way to Cyan. A few people did seem a bit wary or disturbed by Phantasm's appearance, but they were in the minority. Most of them seemed quite impressed, especially the children. A lot of the Uva students would pepper me with questions about how strong she was, or what Type she was, and most of all…
"How can we get a Zoroark like her?" A group of three older boys demanded of me, cornering me as some others got their photos taken with her.
"Sorry, can't say." Was my entirely unapologetic response. The other questions are easy enough to answer - no one here is asking questions anyone couldn't find out just by reviewing the fight I just had with Brassius.
They didn't seem happy with that, the lead boy stepping up to tower over me. Then, suddenly, the three of them flinched, turning to stare at Phantasm, who was balefully glaring down at them. Without another word, they ran off.
As we moved on, I asked her in a low voice, "What illusion did you show them?"
["Just a growl. Didn't even need to do anything like that bitch did."] It took me a moment to get over my surprise at her precise auditory illusion-speak and realize that she was talking about Raifort's Zoroark. Well, I guess I don't have any right to tell her not to hate Raifort - she definitely fits my description of very bad people.
I noticed she would cast a baleful glare at those boys a couple of times as they ran away, though there was little anger to her. It feels like she'll make and keep grudges easier, but it's more hatred than anger. I kept things like that in mind as we wandered about, taking in the sights of the impressive festival.
To help protect the donated art pieces from the elements, a great number of large tents had been set up in the open, grassy sections of town. There, people and Pokemon could wander around and view the pieces. We found my sister in one of these, showing off the book.
"Nemona!" She called out, waving me over. "I was just telling my classmates about the comic book we made.
"You wrote this?" Asked one of the older girls. "But you're so young." I didn't really know how to respond to that, so I just shrugged.
"Yeah. We wrote more than just this; we actually have quite a few of these comics at home."
"How many?" Another kid asked excitedly, the young boy not much older than me.
"Uhh, we got up to issue thirty two, I think, so thirty one more." My sister nodded, agreeing with my memory.
"We had ideas for hundreds of issues more, but someone got too busy with Training."
Frowning at her, I said, "Training is important too. You should know, given your own badges. And I'd say it was time well spent." Phantasm had been ever so carefully flipping through the pages as we talked, reading our story. As I gestured to her, she gave a toothy grin before conjuring an illusion of a Spinarak descending from the ceiling. Just like the iconic scene from the comic where Peter Parkour got his powers.
That distracted most of the other students, who began eagerly calling out different scenes they wanted her to make. My Pokemon took great joy, reveling in the new power and control she had with her illusions. That'll be useful for battles, but I'm glad to see her getting to do stuff like this too. She's a great storyteller, and it brings her a lot of joy.
Eventually, the other students left, going to check out some of the other art displays. Before they did though, the young boy (whose name I learned was Adrian) asked, "If you have ideas for tons of more comic books, why don't you just make them already?"
I chuckled at that. "Easier said than done. Making the comics takes a lot of time, to sketch them all out, color them properly, and actually write the dialogue and narration. And even if we have general outlines of the plot, writing the details in between the plot points is what brings the story to life. Plus, not everything goes as planned; sometimes, the story evolves in ways you didn't expect as you make it."
He nodded and followed after the older students, animatedly chatting about the book. Turning to my sister, I said, "Thanks."
"What for?"
"For putting our comic on display. I would have been hesitant, but it's really cool to see a bunch of people like it, even amidst all this professional work."
"Well, not all of it's professional. Think there are a few other amateur pieces people volunteered here. Oh, that reminds me! They've got a portrait station where you can make your own piece of art. Let's go check it out; I'm sure Smeargle will love it."
"You got one?" I asked excitedly as she dragged me along, Phantasm loping behind us.
"Yes, yes," she reapplied, waving me off with her free hand. "Turns out Alisha has a Purugly, so he was able to sketch that Move you wanted."
Yes! One step closer to my plan. A lot of red tape to cut through for us to get our shot, but I'm really hopeful about this one.
My mind turned away from schemes as we approached the do-it-yourself portrait station. There were also several professional artists nearby offering sketches and portraits for a modest fee. We went in the line-up to try our own hand at it - or rather, for Cyan and her Smeargle to try their hands (and tail) at it.
"You sure you don't want to try too?" Cyan asked, and I shook my head vigorously.
"No thanks; we both know I'm pretty bad at this kind of stuff." Occasionally I had drawn things for the comic book to give Cyan a better image of what I had envisioned, and it often ended with me having to explain a bunch of details and nuance that I had failed to illustrate for her.
"Smearg?" The Smeargle by her side asked, talking with Phantasm.
"Oark, zor." Was her response. Hmm, getting only one half of the conversation, less really with Phantasm's evolution giving her new cues and body signs, but I think they're talking about Grafaiai? They're the resident painting Pokemon of Paldea, and I see a few of them around here. Pokemon were a part of every facet of life, and making art was no exception. Some, like Smeargle and Grafaiai, were naturally predisposed to such, but there were plenty of unusual artists I saw, like a Gallade metalworker, a Falinks dance 'team', and an Eelektross poet.
Phantasm and I took our places, both of us trying to strike dramatic yet easy-to-hold poses. That was easier said than done, but we eventually settled down. I tried to remain still, but chatted a little with Cyan, just about what school had been like and other little things that we'd missed that hadn't made their way onto the group chat, as well as my future plans.
"Are you going to race to Iono's Gym next? She's pretty fun in her streams, but I haven't gotten to see how she performs as a Gym Leader." I chuckled at her words, causing her to scowl. "Don't move around."
"Sorry, just thinking about how much more interested you've become in Pokemon stuff ever since you've gotten your badges. I never would have believed it, my sister, a Pokemaniac." That only got her to scowl harder.
Graciously shifting the conversation, I continued. "Nah, not gonna rush ahead. Kinda blitzed through the last three, wanna to take a bit more time to explore the land. Maybe backtrack a bit and check out the Secluded Beach."
"Oh right, that's one of the ten sights. I picked up Toxapex not far from there, actually." I resisted the ingrained instinct to nod my head at my sister telling me something I already knew. I remember how you bragged about getting Mareanie to join your team and then begged me until I gave you tons of advice on how to best integrate her into your team.
After they finished, we looked at their portraits. "This is- I look…" Fierce, powerful, and confident. Like a champion ready to take on the world, and not just a little girl. "Thank you."
Cyan blushed at her praise, while Phantasm delicately passed me her portrait before grabbing Smeargle in a bone-crushing hug. I can see why; this looks great! Not sure why he chose to use a snowy background for this, considering it's a bright sunny day, but it helps add to the flair of 'mystery' and dims the sense of danger radiating off of her.
"You're welcome-"
"Ok, now do one with the whole team!" I shouted, releasing the rest of my Pokemon.
"Hey, I didn't agree to that! I was just going to do one portrait-"
***
['Still looking at that picture your kin drew for us?'] Phantasm didn't speak often through illusions, human language a bit odd for her. If she tried to make the illusion too fast or her mind drifted to the emotion she was trying to convey, the illusion would get messed up. Still, does make it easier to understand her and how exactly she's feeling.
"Of course!" I replied to Phantasm brightly, thrusting my phone in her face. She looked annoyed by the action but held back from swatting it away in a remarkable display of control. Or perhaps the fact that Miles is inside it, and they can still kick her keister, even with her evolution.
I pulled back when I realized she wasn't looking. Being fair and honest, she had dutifully looked at it the first dozen or so times I had shown it to her, as well as being there when it was made. The picture isn't quite as good as the real thing, but the large portrait would have taken up space in my bag and is better hanging up in my house.
Despite her denials, Cyan eventually (with Smeargle's help) agreed to make a portrait for the whole team. It was a bit tricky to get everyone in a tight frame, but we managed. Dun lay curled up in the center, with me sitting atop. Notch floated directly above my head while Miles was in front of me, not possessing any appliances but sticking out with their blue glow. On my left was Phantasm, and on my right stood Riolu, with Nightwing hovering above her.
This is awesome. I love little things like this to remind me of how great the journey can be. I've stumbled a bit and ran into some trouble, but as a whole, I'm glad we've gone on it. It also made for a nice distraction from the gloom around me.
The secluded beach was, surprisingly, actually secluded when I arrived. Ever since it had been called one of the 'Ten Sights of Paldea,' there had been tons of tourism to this spot. Today, however, the sky was quite overcast, hovering on the precipice of precipitation.
"Honestly, this place is pretty boring," I said, voicing my thoughts aloud.
['Do you think all the Ten Sights will be like that?'] Phantasm asked. Making illusory sounds was great for communication, and it doubled as training for making complex and subtle illusions in battle.
"Nah, I think we've just had bad luck. Well, at least with the Olive Field. I grew up on a beach, at least in this life." Though I hadn't been that far from the water in my first life, even if I didn't have a beachside mansion to grow up in then. "So this place probably wouldn't be that impressive for me even when it's warm and sunny. Must be the same for any citizens of Levincia and their 'million-volt skyline."
That being said, I can totally see how this would be fairly impressive. Got that magnificent waterfall from the river that flows down from above, and the beach itself is kept quite clean. Here and there, I spotted signs of Rangers or their presence. A 'lifeguard' tower that doubled as an outpost, from what I recognized in my Explorer training.
Phantasm cared little for that, and the Finizens, Wattrels, Clawitzers, and the like here hadn't the strength to challenge her. ['K, I'm going back to rest in my ball.'] Which she promptly did.
What to do now? We could carry on to Levincia and get our challenge to Iono done, but I did say I wasn't going to rush things. Looking around, I brightened up as I saw the cliff looming over the beach.
"Hey, Notch." They tilted their body after I released them, making some questioning chiming sounds. "Want to explore the marsh over there?"
They rotated in the air, their gaze following my finger pointing over the cliff. Without a sign of interest or the opposite, they started simply floating that way. Laughing, I followed her, jumping up as easily as she ascended, despite gravity's lacking hold on her. Aura really is awesome.
Atop the cliff, we stared down at the marsh on the other side. The basin was muddy, with large puddles of water covering much of it. Within them splashed Woopers under the watchful eyes of Clodsires while Mareanies lurked within the surface, only the purple tips of their heads sticking out of the water.
They were hardly the only Poison Types to make their home here, I realized as I caught sight of a Croagunk scooping a Skrelp out of the water. The Skrelp managed to shoot out a Water Gun and push itself out of the Croagunk's claw, flipping back into the water with a splash and hiding amidst the silt churned up.
There were some non-Poison Types as well, with stubborn Chewtles and oblivious Psyducks wandering around; however, the strongest group of Pokemon seemed to be the Flamigos, who strutted around as if they owned the place.
Considering I can see a Tera Bug one off in the center of the marsh, I guess they kind of do. I wonder if they can deal with all this toxic water because their long legs are resistant to that? I remember Flamingos in my world having something like that. I think? Maybe other birds had resistance in their talons, like one with red talons that could hunt snakes? And they'd trick the snakes into biting their legs, and they'd be fine? I don't know. Guess I can't find out, and it doesn't really matter anyway.
If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.
With a sigh, I jumped off the ledge, gently floating down to the marsh. My Aura helped me land lightly, but then I made the mistake of letting go of it once I touched down, causing my feet to sink into the mud.
"Gah!" Wrenching my feet free took a bit of effort, and it felt terrible, the mud sinking into my shoes, coating my socks and feet. "Ughhhh!" I whined, kicking the mud away as if that would help anything. I hate getting mucky and dirty like this!
So too did the Goomy that I accidentally hit with my little tantrum. That, or they thought it was an attack, and so rearing up, they let loose a stream of purple fire at me. On instinct, I raised my arms up to shield myself from the blast and yelled in pain from the Dragon Breath.
It didn't last long, luckily, as Notch summoned a mighty Moonblast to send the offending dragon slithering away, disappearing amongst the reeds. They moved to pursue, but I waved them down. "It- it's fine," I said, wincing. My nerves feel like they're on fire. God, that stings. I can see why Pokemon can have trouble just pushing through it.
Notch returned to stand guard over me as I pulled out a Parlyz Heal and, with shaking arms, sprayed myself with it. "Ahhh." That's better. Not perfect, but better.
It was still a struggle to climb out, my muscles moving sluggishly as I scurried back up the cliff before lying down in a heap. Bright blue eyes stared at me from above, Notch floating nearby, wondering how they could help.
"You already are."
They looked confused as I took off my shoes and socks and got Miles to wash those articles of clothing and my feet off with their Wash Form. "No, really, you helped tons. Not just in protecting me, but in stopping me from just moping around. I know myself well enough to know that if I was by myself and hurt and dirty and grumpy, I'd just waste a bunch of time feeling bad for myself before I got on with what needed to be done to fix the situation."
I frowned as I thought about it a bit more. "At least, that's how I used to be. Not sure that I am that way anymore. Is it because I'm Nemona now, or just a result of growing up again here?"
Shaking my head, I said, "It doesn't matter. I'm me, and I'm so glad to have your help on this journey." Miles had already switched to their Heat Form to begin drying off my clothes. Yeah, I wouldn't make it anywhere near as far without them.
To Notch, I finished by saying, "That's why I wanted to show you someplace new and exciting. The marsh doesn't seem like the greatest choice, but is there anywhere else you want to explore?" That, and they're the quietest of the team. I want to make sure they get to do some exploring here too.
Notch thought about it for a few minutes as I dried off and put my now clean socks and shoes on again. It was difficult not to be impatient, but I did my best, not wanting to rush them. Man, stories hardly ever go into these things, huh? It's just dramatic dialogue and the scene cuts to the action, never covering the little difficulties of day-to-day life on the road. The games certainly never showed how mucky it was to travel across the countryside. And I have it fairly easy, all things considered, with six supernatural beings by my side and tons of expensive gear to make things easier.
Some chiming sounds alerted me to where Notch was pointing, their ears directing my gaze up and up and up. Across the river bank on the other side were the canyons, but amidst the trenches and hills of that land that separated Mesagoza from Artazon, one feature stood out. A massive pillar of stone that rose well above any other. That was where Notch was pointing.
Delighted, I grinned. "That's where you want to go? Alright then, let's reach the peak! Nothing can stop us." My stomach decided to speak up at that moment, reminding me of how hungry I was. "... After lunch, nothing can stop us after we've had lunch." The chiming this time sounded like laughter, and I couldn't blame them.
***
I had thoroughly restocked by the time I left the festival, so we had plenty of food for lunch. The team was rowdy as usual, eagerly digging into their meals and conversing. Phantasm is getting bolder now, pushing her limits more. Which is a good thing, but she snaps back easier than the others, getting more upset for real way faster than the others. Might have to have a chat with her if she's not seeing it herself before Riolu puts her in her place. Or maybe Nightwing, she's getting antsy too.
Most of the talk was general chatter and banter, but some things of great importance were discussed when I had the whole team out to eat and socialize.
"Dudun." Dun firmly stated.
"Bzzt, I firmly disagree. The main theme is friendship and cooperation."
"Sparce, un." Dun rebutted Miles.
"That arc is practically filler, bzzt! And even if not given its dubious canonicity for happening in the Dream World arc, the tragedy of following orders blindly hardly shows up again at all."
Dun dug in further, both literally and metaphorically, his tail grinding against the grassy hill. "Un dun, dunsparce."
Miles actually rolled their plasmic eyes. "The ending does show hints of those darker elements, but I believe that was just a way to ratchet up tension, bzzt. Also to distract from the fact that the writers were too cowardly to put Espeon and Umbreon together, despite the clear chemistry they had."
My starter nodded his head, the waggle of his tail showing he agreed with Miles' latter point, but still had things he wanted to argue on the first. I had just finished my deconstructed 'sandwich' however, so I decided to cut things short.
"Guys, a show can have more than one major theme." I paused for a moment before continuing, "But sorry, Dun, Miles is totally right. Eeveelution Ranger Rescue Squad is a kid's show, of course, friendship and comradery are the main themes!"
Talking overtop his angered hisses, I offered an olive branch to smooth over his feelings. "That's not to say they don't have elements that more mature watchers can't enjoy, like shipping characters together or darker themes that show up occasionally. And if you want to explore that more, that's great; that's what fanfiction is for."
"Iolu."
"Yes, you can write and find fanfics where Leafeon doesn't get Worfed every major battle."
"Ri? Riolu! Lu!" She asked, then vehemently protested. This girl. Acting like she isn't glued to the screen or her Aura doesn't light up whenever Leafeon takes out a mook. Of course, such things were 'too immature' for her to enjoy… despite how she would always 'happen' to find herself in the room and out of her ball whenever it was on.
"A character being 'Worfed' is a term from my world. It came from a series, well several series actually, called Star Trek. Worf was actually in a lot of the different series; however, in Next Generation, where he premiered, he was a tough security officer. However, to show how tough the enemy of the week was, Worf would often lose to them despite his supposed strength, to hype up how tough the threat was. That's where the term comes from," I explained.
I wisely refrained from pointing out how such a term might be called 'Leafeon'd' in this world to avoid an argument flaring up again. Notch chimed in, curious about details from my world.
Packing up the picnic (really just a large blanket for us to lay on and a basket; no whole-ass bench and table as they got in the games), I answered Notch's question. "Well, I don't remember a ton about the series, to be honest. It was one of the main Science Fiction franchises in my world, alongside Star Wars. I was more into Star Wars than Star Trek, but I'll tell you what I remember. Trek starts with Captain Kirk, serving aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise…"
As we began our hike, I regaled Notch with tales of some of the stories of my world. Crossing the river was easy enough with my Aura, but the climb began to take its toll as we ascended. While there were a few ledges to rest on, most were fairly flat, meaning I had to climb or fly my way up. And there's no way I'm flying up this whole thing, not with my Aura as it currently stands.
The ledges served at least as nice places to rest and recuperate. I'd drink water and sit for a bit before getting back up and continuing the climb. Notch helped as well, with me reluctant to have them carry me up (and thus cut out any effort in the climb), but they were able to pull rock chunks from the sheer cliff face, making hand and foot holds for me to ascend.
As the climb progressed, I moved from my stories on Star Trek (which had a surprising deal of breadth to them from general osmosis, though little depth on much of the series) to Star Wars (which I knew better but still had several series or books I hadn't read and only had a partial picture on).
Eventually, I mentioned fanfiction, of which I had read a fair bit. "It likely colors my opinion of some of the- urk - the stories, admittedly. In most series I tried to read the main work first, but sometimes I got introduced to them through a crossover or some recommendation."
Grunting, I pulled myself up to another ledge, wiping sweat from my brow. Gathering my Aura, I tried to revitalize myself, long having forgone using it to just float up. Easier than climbing, but it exhausts me so quickly.
"I wrote some fanfic in my old world. Not much, just one big story that I ended up dropping and a one shot that wasn't very popular. I liked it though; it helped sharpen my skills as a writer. At least, I felt like it did." Cringing at your past work is a sign you've improved, right? And hopefully liking the vision and idea that was there under the poor prose and bad grammar means you had an idea worth writing in the first place.
Notch chimed along, and I took a drink of water, my throat feeling parched. Attempting the climb in silence would be worse, though. Need something to distract me from how tired I feel.
Getting back up, I continued. "What I was really proud of, or at least hopeful about, were my original works. Stories I had made up all my own. Never managed to get them to any publishers; only tried with one. Got distracted with work, life- hah!"
Nearly slipping with one hand, I tightened my grip with the other, wrenching myself back up. Notch had immediately hovered down beside me, ready to catch me with Psychic if need be, and eyed me warily as I continued.
"Life, gaming groups, card game hobbies, etcetera. Those were fun. I should try making those games here." Suddenly I frowned, remembering what games I was talking about. "Then again, maybe not. No one needs to be subjected to knowing the difference between 'when you can' and 'if you can' effects."
Even Notch didn't know how to reply there, and I just shook my head. "Anyways, it was fun to make those stories. Maybe I'll try my hand at writing some other original stories later." My companion chimed a question, and I understood it well enough to respond.
"Why not those stories I never got published? Well, most of them were fantasy stories. But they don't really translate well to a world with Pokemon." At more insistent chimes, I explained, "Writing a story without Pokemon? Here? Wouldn't work."
I paused, both to think on it more and to catch my breath from the climb. "I mean, there were things of speculative fiction in my old world, something where there were no humans or equally fundamental as no Pokemon could work here but then-" I cut myself off, trying to find the right way to explain it.
"The thing is, hup," I pulled myself up once more. "A work of fiction like that usually just explores that one change. Writing some other magic system or fantastical elements amidst it feels… weird."
Notch hovered nearby, shaking their body/head, chiming insistently, and I paused to look at them. "You think I should anyway?" Then they pulled out the Diancite. "Oh. I didn't give up on your dreams, so you aren't going to give up on mine."
Some happy chimes informed me my assumption of their meaning was correct, and my eyes watered. "Thanks, Notch," I said softly before resuming the climb.
"Ok, so I could write something like that. Maybe under a pseudonym? And an online handle, as a Faller. That could explain why I had those ideas and why I made that kind of story. Of course, if I'm doing that, I won't have my family's resources to call upon in pushing it. But maybe that's a good thing. I'll get to see how my stories will stand on their own. And even if they don't sell, it'll be a project more just for me. Getting some readers who enjoy it will just be a happy bonus."
The climb had continued past the setting of the sun and well into the night. Notch made worried sounds, motioning that maybe I should take a break on a nearby ledge. Tempting, that spot would be spacious enough for me to set up the tent. But…
"It might be dumb, but I want to make it up here by dawn. It's gonna look great, I'm sure of it." I was not, in fact, 'sure of it.' However, I thought it was very likely, and I wanted to believe it. Want to push myself as well, go past my limits.
Notch nodded, eyes gleaming with determination as they exuded a pink, misty energy around them, lighting up our side of the cliff face, making it easier for me to see where to go. "Thanks!" With renewed vigor, I continued my climb.
That extra strength couldn't carry on forever, though. I noticed my strength flagging again, my breaks taking longer and longer to regain the energy for the next climb as the night carried on. On the other hand, the distance to our goal got shorter and shorter too, and just as the light was coming back to the world, we crested the top.
"We did it!" I shouted tiredly before lowering my voice as I saw a Vigoroth shift in its sleep nearby. Luckily, it stayed asleep, not being bothered getting up at this time of day, so I slipped away.
The top of the pillar was very flat, with a few spikes sticking up above the large, rocky surface. Walking to the edge, I put on my goggles and sat down, waiting for the sun to rise. I didn't have to wait long, as inexorably, the sliver of light grew larger and brighter.
Watching it, shining over the horizon, the sea shimmering out as far as even my eyes could see, I could only think: This is the real sight of Paldea. There's so much beauty and wonder to this land.
From the wide-eyed, awed, and reverent look Notch gave the view beside me, I knew they felt the same. Ha, I knew this was the right call. The sky looks so pretty like this, so deep and blue… think I'm just gonna lie back and…
***
I woke to the sound of my phone ringing. "Huh? Who is it?" Miles screens my calls, so this must be someone important. My groggy thoughts were interrupted by the realization of just how close I was to the cliff's edge, and I scrambled backward instinctively as if that would help me be safer.
Gah, stop spazzing out and- Hassel? Floating in front of me, Miles possessing the phone showed me who was calling. Pressing the button to accept, I said, "Hey Hassel, what's up?"
The man appeared on the screen, looking the same as he ever did, save for perhaps being a bit more tired, with some slight bags under his eyes. Not that I'm one to talk, I must look like a raccoon right now.
"Greetings Nemona. I would say you are. My colleagues have been buzzing with news of your exploits." His colleagues- oh, right. Gym Leaders work for the League, so they work along with Elite Four members.
"Yeah, I'm taking on the Gyms and stuff; I gotta work my way up to face you again. I'm guessing Brassius told you about our battle?"
"He did. And Oberon had much to say about you as well." Hassel's tone hardly shifted at all, his expression remaining much the same as well, but there was a steely glint in his eyes.
"Aha, yeah, got into some trouble there. But all's well that ends well, right?" I tried, with my most innocent, childlike smile.
The Elite Four Dragon Trainer, having known me for years at this point, did not buy it for a second. "Where are you? I was thinking we might talk in person."
"Ah, well, I'm really high up. It's kinda remote. I'm on top of that big rocky cliff beside the canyons in South Province, and it's hard to get to- is that…" My voice trailed off as I looked around. Those markings on the big rocks nearby, they're very weird but familiar. The familiarity came from how much I had studied them, interested in this particular Pokemon.
Looking around in the light of day confirmed my suspicions. Many Pokemon wandered around the open area, from Litleos pouncing on each other to Flittles flitting by. What caught my eye, however, were a few small, stubby, green, tusked Pokemon waddling about.
"Did you know that there were Axews here?!" I exclaimed excitedly, unable to contain my exuberance. "Oh man, I think I see some Bagons too!"
"I… was not aware of them in that location, no. I'll-" he paused, someone offscreen talking to him. "We'll be there soon." He hung up, but I barely noticed, running up to the adorable little Axews.
As I neared them, I slowed down, trying not to scare them. "Hi, I'm Nemona," I said, waving tentatively at one. The little gal turned around, looking confused at me for a moment before smiling and mimicking my gesture, waving back. The action nearly unbalanced her, and she dropped some of the berries she was carrying in her little arms.
Crouching down, I picked some up, passing them back to her. She happily warbled in thanks and began marching off. Without anything better to do as I waited for Hassel, I followed her. We walked a long way around, twisting past a few small sections of stone or mini cliffs, winding our way to a set of truly ancient ruins.
Whoa. I wonder who made these? There aren't any records of a civilization here, not even any watchtowers like there are down in the canyons, so who put these crumbling stone walls here?
My first thoughts were quickly overtaken with caution as I spotted the large eagle-like bird roosting atop the ruins. The Braviary glanced over at me with one piercing eye before turning away, the great bird more focused on the young Rufflets flapping about, making awkward hops on the ground. Though I imagine her nonchalance will change if I go near her young.
The Axew didn't lead me that way though, but around, back behind one of the walls, where I saw a bunch of Axews gathered around, playing together and eating. Off in the corner, huddled up by himself, was a larger figure. He had light green scales on the upper half of his body, his legs, and his face a light black. His feet and claws were blue, as were his eyes and the tip of his tusks.
The Fraxure looked surprised at my presence, nervously taking me in. For a moment he squared up, ready to fight me if I was a threat, until he saw the Axew that led me there, excitedly pointing at me and talking to the others. Well, perhaps a bit too trusting on the Axews' part, but maybe they're just good judges of character. But why is that Fraxure acting so oddly? And their coloring…
I didn't have time to worry about what to do, nor were any of us concerned about appearances as heavy wing beats heralded new arrivals. The Braviary spotted them and, in a surprising(ly intelligent) display, hopped down from her perch and gathered her children, flying away immediately.
Not that I think they would have hurt us. Those riders are pretty familiar. Well, Hassel is pretty familiar, the other guy I only have heard about. However, I think she was more worried about the Pokemon they're riding in on.
Hassel sat atop the back of his Dragonite as usual. Slightly ahead of him was a man in a pristine blue suit jacket, with a red tie tucked firmly in, matching his red dress pants. In contrast to his professional attire, his hair was a tangled mess that looked only slightly worse flying atop the back of his Salamence than it did in official press releases.
The pair landed down in the opening in front of the ruins, and I stepped out to meet them. "So you're the young girl who's taking Paldea by storm, are ya? Nice to meet you, Nemona." He said with a smirk, sticking a hand out to shake. On his middle finger was an unusual ring that looked to be carved out of stone. Probably because it was, given it's a Key Stone.
I shook the offered hand firmly. "Nice to meet you too, Miguel Worthington, current El Primero of Paldea."