Chapter 22: Connections

“This is my house, just up here.” said Terrence, pointing to a small two story house down the open dirt path. The house had a faded shade of white paint. The lawn was a healthy green and surrounded with a white picket fence. A singular tree stood outside the side of the house, far enough for someone to perfectly see under its canopy.

“Quite an abode you have here. Do you live alone?” asked Crisis.

“No, my parents are usually gone ‘round this time. They do some kind of business in Lumiose but it's something I don't try to understand.”

“Why not just have an apartment in Lumiose?” asked Marie. “Even if you drove a car, that’s at least an hour drive from here.”

Terrence stepped up on the porch and put one hand on the doorknob. “They own ten acres ‘round here. Once the opportunity presented itself in Lumiose, they didn’t want to give it up. So they let me live here to watch over it.” He opened and gestured to the group to come inside.

“Doesn’t it get lonely?” asked Marie.

“Not particularly. I have some online friends and with all this land, they tend to visit sometimes. Plenty of room to fuck about and whatnot.”

Marie looked discomforted, “Um-”

Ceailean interjected “Hey, could you tone it down with the swearing. Marie’s a bit on the soft side.”

“Alrighty then, I’ll do my best.” agreed Terrence.

“Understood.” Crisis also said.

“You too?” asked Ceailean.

“When certain moments present themselves, I occasionally do.”

Terrence opened the fridge. “Whatever floats your boat I guess, I’m not one to complain. Sitrus berry?”

“Um, sure.” answered Ceailean.

Terrence pointed down. “Not for you.” He tossed it into the air and Scorbunny caught it, running over to the living room couch to indulge.

“Now that we are here, let’s get to the reason you’ve brought us here.” stated Crisis.

“Yeah, why didn’t you want us to catch it?” asked Marie.

Terrence sighed and slumped his shoulders. “Follow me, it might be easier for me to just show you.” He led them up the stairs in the room furthest down the hallway. Inside was an electronic heaven. Neon lights; huge TV’s with every imaginable console connected; surround sound speakers; an entire PC setup; and the latest phone and tablet laying upon his bed.

Ceailean looked around in awe. “Whoa dude, you could afford all this?”

“My parents are somewhat big shots in Lumiose. And being the sole keeper of the house/land most of the time, I tend to get a little bored sometimes. So I ask and I receive.” explained Terrence.

“Lucky, I could never do something like this in my own room.” said Marie.

“All this is more expensive than you think, not everyone could afford it.”

“It’s more like my dad is a bit stingy.”

“Well, I’m not one to peer.”

“Let’s stay focused.” said Crisis, “What does all this have to do with Noibat?”

Terrence scratched his head. “Um, did you happen to see it do anything strange? Maybe do something that something with wings wouldn’t usually do?”

“I saw it in that clearing kicking a tree. It was mad at Crisis for interfering with a challenge it wanted to take with us. It was somersaulting around pretty good too.” explained Ceailean.

“Ha, sounds like our Noibat. It likes to stick around here and prey upon the new trainers that come out of Lumiose. To it, fighting is not a struggle, it relishes in the challenge. The entire time I’ve known it, it has beaten every novice trainer it could come across. Usually they aren’t very persistent and leave without trying again. Of course it avoided challenging trainers if it knew they were elite or even intermediate.”

“But it was already scared off by Crisis, why would it want to challenge Ceailean?” asked Marie.

“That Noibat has become somewhat of a local legend ‘round these parts. Eventually, word got back to Lumiose of a Pokémon that attacked any and all novice trainers coming on their way in this direction. They became weary and started camping outside the forest, then bum rushing through the whole thing during the daylight hours. Noibat couldn’t get very many challengers that way, so it must have been deprived of the thrill.”

“How long have you known it?” asked Ceailean

“‘Bout six months. And going off of your description, I assume Noibat was doing something like this. Rotom, could you please play the Krystal Krash flurry kick scene.” The TV turned on and began playing a scene from an anime. The clip was only seven seconds long but it was a perfect rendition of what Noibat performed in the forest clearing. The main character ran up to the villain and performed several kicks to his chest. He back flipped off the last one and stared down the villain angrily, to which the villain laughed maniacally.

“So is this what Devin called ‘a weeb’?” asked Ceailean.

Marie hit him on the shoulder, “C!”

Terrence laughed out loud. “Well if you put it that way, I suppose it is. But it’s probably more fitting to call myself the weeb.”

“So what you’re saying is that this Noibat copied the moves of an animated cartoon show?” asked Crisis.

“That’s one part of the answer, yes.”

Crisis crossed his arms, now slightly irritated. “We’re going too slow here. What does this have to do with Ceailean and Marie not being able to catch it?”

“Come on now Crisis, no need to get all worked up. As it is now, we have all the time in the world. No need to rush things.” said Ceailean calmly.

Crisis slumped his shoulders. “It would seem that I have overstepped, please forgive me. I will wait downstairs.” With that, Crisis headed away.

“He’s a lil’ over-formal aint he?” pointed out Terrence.

“We had just met Crisis recently, we’re still getting used to it also.” said Marie.

“Hm.” Terrence stared out the window, looking under the tree canopy. “Noibat has family here.”

“Really? A Noibat making its home in a sunny place like this?” Marie speculated.

“It’s a bit more special than that. Whether it be a Noibat or a Noivern, chances are wherever the egg lays is where it stays. Many Noibat don’t grow up with their parents, often having to be part of colonies inside of caves in order to survive.”

“But this Noibat is alone.”

“That’s what I found strange also. When I first met Noibat, I was down with a cold. A bit of messing around in the rain will do that to ya. Since I couldn’t move out of my bed very often I opted to watch anime, as you would. I leave it on while I sleep too. Then one day, I heard strange noises coming from outside. I double checked to see whether or not it was just the show. The noises seemed to work in tandem with the show whenever there was a climax. It was then I started to get annoyed, you know like when you leave your alarm on with the default ringtone and eventually it gives you PTSD?”

“No.” “Yes.” said Marie and Ceailean respectively.

“I got so fed up that I dragged myself out of my bed and opened the window to see what the noise was. I didn’t find it at first, but I remained curious. I left the TV running every night to see if whatever was making that noise would come back. Eventually enough, I snuck a peek, it was that Noibat. It was watching the shows that I left on the TV. It practically loved every moment of them. I felt like if I tried to talk to it, it would fly away again. So I left it be. That is until it started coping the moves it saw. Most times they were sloppy and didn’t really look like the original thing at all. It was then that I decided to finally acknowledge it. And it tried to fly away as soon as I opened the window, but I told it that I think it was cool what it was trying to do. Somehow that convinced enough to stay, but it was still hesitant.

Over time, we’ve got to know each other. It would come by every time a new episode, then practically every day once it found out I could record clips and play them back. It would spend hours perfecting the moves shown in the anime’s. Then something changed when I decided to watch the Unovan Tyranazilla movie again. Noibat really liked that one. It made me play it in as loud a volume as possible and stomped around pretending to be a giant monster. It especially liked the villain, Gyaradorah. The way it roared, the way it spread its wings to intimidate others, and it's crazy electro beams. That Noibat was absolutely amazed.

Afterward, I noticed that it started to visit less often. And for a while I wondered why. Eventually it got to a point that it only showed up once a week again. This went on for about a month and a half. Then I found a news report from the Lumiose. It was just a small advisory saying that a Noibat was going around on the trail to Camphrier town targeting novice trainers. As you know, trainers began rushing through the forest. It was getting hard for Noibat to find any challengers. It must have had one long run of no challengers one time because one day, I found it pouting in the tree. I opened the window to ask what was up, but as soon as I did it flew into my room and landed face first into my bed. It was such a mood, I get that bored sometimes too.

We watched more shows and Noibat grew more and more comfortable lounging around in my room. But, in a way, I didn’t feel like I was growing closer to Noibat. Often I would ask it questions about its personal life, but it never told me anything. After a while I knew that it wasn’t growing close to me, it was just more confident that I wouldn’t do anything to it while it watched the shows. Of course, this disheartened me a little bit. Then something happened, no more than two weeks ago.”

“So just before we even left Snowbelle.” added Marie. “What happened to it?”

“The visits grew sparse again. At first I thought it was for the same reasons. That was until when we were watching more shows, I saw that it wasn’t focusing at all. I asked again about its personal life, but this time it just left without so much as making a sound. It might have been dark out, but curiosity got the best of me that day. I followed it. It was barely a silhouette in the night sky. I managed however. It landed in a tree not too far from my house. There I found it with another pokemon. I used my phone light to take a good look at what it was doing. It was a white eyed Vivillon.”

“White eyes?” asked Marie.

“I wasn’t really sure about it myself. What I did know was that it was hurt, it couldn’t fly. I offered my help but Noibat didn’t take too kindly to the suggestion. It chased me off and I haven’t seen it since, until you three arrived. Knowing that Noibat was spending some time taking care of that Vivillon, I couldn’t let it leave without having done it’s business here.”

“That’s so sad.” said Marie “Even after all the time you two spent together it still doesn’t trust you?”

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“I suppose it doesn’t. I couldn’t tell you why though.”

“Everyone has their reasons.” said Ceailean “I have my fair share also.”

“What do you mean by that C?” asked Marie.

“It’s a secret.”

“Well, I’ve told you why I can’t let you catch Noibat.” said Terrence. “Will you guys consider leaving it alone?”

“You said it was only tied here by its connection with Vivillon right?” asked Marie.

“That is what I said, yes.”

“Then all we have to do is help that Vivillon with whatever injury it has. Then we could catch Noibat with a clear conscience.”

“I’m pretty sure it’s more complicated than that.” said Ceailean.

“I second that.” sighed Terrence.

“Oh come on! As long as Noibat knows Vivillon will be alright, it should be more willing to come with us, right?”

“Pokémon have lives outside of us. Who knows what that Vivillon is to Noibat.” explained Ceailean.

“Yes, I agree. We mustn't handle this so simple mindedly.” said Terrence.

Simple mindedly. All of Marie’s enthusiasm washed away at the phrase. Still however, she did her best to hide it. “W-Well, what do you suggest we do C?”

“Not much we can do unless we know a substantial amount about Noibat. We’ll probably just have to leave it.”

A little bit of enthusiasm came back to Marie. “B-But, shouldn’t we at least check on that Vivillon? It may actually need our help.”

Ceailean sighed and scratched his head. “I suppose if you really want to. We aren’t doing much else anyway. That alright with you Terrence?”

“If you plan nothing else.”

“Alright then, it’s settled. Could you please lead the way to the Vivillon.”

“Okay.”

On the way out of the house, they found Crisis pacing around the living room. “Oh? Are you all heading out?”

“Yeah. Noibat was basically taking care of an injured Vivillon. We’re going to see if it still needs some care.” explained Ceailean.

“Injured? Then I must attend as well. It is my duty as a part of Team Harmonious to fulfill the needs of any that may find themselves in peril.”

“Alright then, we’ll have you along too.”

The group left the house along with their Pokémon and weaved through the woods.

“I don’t actually know the exact location, but it’s at least in this general location.” said Terrence. “I’ve only visited once and in the dark while in a rush.”

“You claim that we are searching for a Vivillon, correct?” asked Crisis.

“Yeah.”

“I may be of assistance. My training at Team Harmonious-”

“Found it.” said Ceailean, pointing to a tree branch. Vivillon was simply resting on the branch and leaning against the trunk.

“Now that is quite strange. That Vivillon has an icy snow pattern.”

“How is that strange?” asked Marie.

“It just means it was born somewhere very far from here. Somewhere cold.”

“Like Snowbelle?”

“Much farther.”

“It looks pretty fine to me.” said Ceailean. “Hey Vivillon!”

“What’re you doing?” asked Marie and Terrence.

“We aren’t getting anywhere by just sitting here, let’s talk to it.”

The Vivillon heard them. It spun around and looked in their general direction. Just as Terrence described, it had white eyes. Vivillon smiled and flew down to meet the group. As it did so, Ceailean found out the reason for its white eyes.

“No way, it’s blind.”

“Hmm, you were able to diagnose it in so little time?” asked Crisis.

“I know another Pokémon with a similar eye. Plus look at the way it’s looking. It isn’t facing us perfectly, almost as if it were looking to space.”

The Vivillon was now hovering around the group's general height. It gave a warm greeting.

“Hello Vivillon, we’d like to ask you about Noibat.” Vivillon recognized the name and nodded.

“Are you sure we can ask complicated questions?” asked Crisis. “We won’t be able to understand it.”

“Then we’ll just ask it yes or no questions. Is that alright with you?” Ceailean asked Vivillon. It nodded. “Okay then, is Noibat taking care of you?” Vivillon shook its head no. It hovered closer to the ground and clicked it’s tongue. It hugged the nearest Pokémon to it, which happened to Scorbunny, and smothered it’s face into it. Scorbunny was clearly not amused and audibly voiced its discomfort.

“Seems more like Vivillon is taking care of Noibat.” said Marie.

“Really? Well uh, do you know a lot about Noibat?” Vivillon said no again. “Huh, seems like it was as close to it as you were Terrence.”

“Seems that way.”

“Do you know Noibat’s parents or where it came from?” Vivillon frowned and said no.

“Does it have colony friends?” asked Marie. Another no.

“Quite tragic.” said Crisis in a somber tone.

“Were you hurt anywhere in the last two weeks?” asked Terrence. Vivillon nodded. It pointed up to the tree line, imitated something falling, then pointed to its wing.

“Something fell on it’s wing.” said Ceailean.

“Seems to be flying just fine though.” pointed out Marie.

“No, look closer.” said Crisis. “It’s starting to get tired.” The group observed Vivillon and could definitely see its strain. It was out of breath.

“Oh sorry Vivillon, we didn’t know you were still recovering. Please, you should rest.” said Marie. Vivillon raised its hands to assure the group that was fine. Only for a moment later for its wings to give out and make it fall. Scorbunny was quick to react and caught Vivillon on its back. Vivillon showed it’s gratitude by giving Scorbunny another smothering hug.

“I find it strange that you’re not weary of us.” said Crisis. “Are you not cautious around humans?” Vivillon didn’t answer.

Ceailean stood there feeling somewhat of an understanding for Vivillon when the sun reflected off of his glasses. He pulled out his pokédex and looked at the time, 2:30. It was only a couple more hours till sunset. Have they been with Terrence for so long? The whole situation got him thinking. Noibat has no one that it was particularly close to. Not the person it hangs out with, not even the assumed motherly figure. Why? These are people that are willing to give them time and attention, so why is there no connection? This reminded him of himself from about 3-4 years ago, ever since-

“Does Noibat tend to act a little bit strangely when it’s around you?” asked Marie. Vivillon nodded and transitioned into several generic fighting poses, woo’ing and waa’ing in between each one. This got a chuckle out of Marie. “Yep, sounds like the Noibat you were talking about Terrence.”

“Seems like it.” acknowledged Terrence.

“I suggest we move along. We’ve been away from the camp for an extended amount of time now. I am starting to become concerned for the items we have left there.” said Crisis.

“Do you want us to head back?” asked Ceailean.

“No, I would like to examine Vivillon to be certain of its condition. I’ll catch up with the rest of you later.”

“W-Wait!” stammered Terrence. “Since I’ve taken up so much of your time, why don’t you guys stay at my place for the day. You know, to make it up for you guys.”

The group thought for a moment. “Of course.” answered Crisis. “I thank you for your hospitality.”

“Yeah, that sounds cool!” said Marie. “Do you own any Pokémon of your own?”

“Not really. I just have one from my parents. Why do you ask?”

“I was hoping to train with someone other than C.”

“What? What’s wrong with me?” asked Ceailean.

“If I don’t get you pumped up enough, you usually don’t put as much effort as you did in Lumiose. I end up having to not try as hard just to make it even.”

“Oh come on, I’m not that easy right Scorbunny?” Scorbunny gave him an uneasy look. Ceailean hung his head in defeat.

Marie laughed. “So Terrence, what Pokémon is it?”

“Don't know. I’ve never had to use it the whole time I’ve been here.”

“You don’t let it at least walk around or even stretch its legs?”

“Haven’t thought of it that way. Maybe I will from now on.”

Crisis took out two pokéballs and released Gurdurr and Farfetched. “Gurdurr, Farfetched, this is the man who was kind enough to offer his residence for our use.” The two Pokémon bowed respectfully to Terrence. “I will require your assistance for packing up the camp. Will you please?” The two Pokémon saluted and walked off in the direction of the camp.

“We could help too.” suggested Marie.

“There is no need. Besides, I feel dissatisfaction emanating from Ceailean. Might you want to voice your concern?”

Ceailean scratched the back of his head. “Huh me? But, I was fine with how things were going-”

“Yet you still have a desire. I can see it in your eyes. You want to see Noibat again, don’t you?” Ceailean remained silent for a moment.

“It’s like I said, I don’t want Noibat to leave until it feels that it’s ready to leave Vivillon alone.” pointed out Terrence. Vivillon looked at him confusingly.

Ceailean turned to Terrence sharply. “I know but, could you at least let me try one more thing. I have an idea. I’ve seen someone catch a Pokémon by having a spectacle.” The group looked confused. “It’s complicated. But Noibat just seems so similar to that Pokémon and I want to try to catch the same way, my way.”

Terrence hesitated. “You’re gonna battle it again?”

“No, I'm gonna do something that will have Noibat absolutely want to come with us.”

“How can you be so sure?”

“Just give me one more chance. If Noibat doesn’t want to come with, then I’ll leave. No battle, no pokéball. I’ll just convince it.”

Terrence thought hard for a moment. “rrRAUGH! Fine! But only one chance, got it! No pokéballs!”

“Thanks Terrence.”

“Okay okay but, just who is this person you saw catch a Pokémon ‘spectacle’?” asked Marie skeptically.

“Oh I never told you about it. I saw June catch his Spheal by having a snowball war with it. Which of course, he dragged me into.”

Marie gasped. “What?! June? You really want to use a plan that involves or at least was conceived by him?”

“If a tactic works, then it doesn’t matter who it was. People will learn from them.” Ceailean looked at his surroundings. “Okay, alright, let’s put something together. Hey Crisis, you said Decidueye has a sharp sight?”

“The best that it could ever be.” confirmed Crisis.

“Okay, could you have it watch the area and tell me when Noibat comes by Terrence’s house?”

“This can be arranged.”

Ceailean gave Crisis a thumbs up. “Thanks. Terrence, the two of you wouldn’t mind if Marie and I trained at your place right?”

“I offered for you to stay, so I suppose I’m alright with that. As long as you guys don’t get too rowdy.”

“Cool. Now Vivillon,” It looked in Ceailean’s direction, wondering what was on his mind. “I’m wondering if you could help us. You could be the cherry on time of this giant spectacle cake.” Vivillon smiled and agreed.

“You? Train? Will you even put your best effort forward?” asked Marie.

“This time I will. I really want this plan to work.”

Marie’s excitement was building up. She hid it somewhat by only giving a slight smile. “Just what do you plan to do, C?”

“I’ll tell you once we get back to Terrence’s house. I’d like to see what kind of things we’re working with.”

“Well, let’s hurry and get back. No use standing around here right?” She slapped Terrence’s back. “Could you show us the way please, I don’t remember the way back.”

Terrence sighed, “I guess. Follow me.” Marie’s excitement continued to build as they headed back. Fennekin and Scorbunny followed once Scorbunny carefully put Vivillon on the ground. Ceailean was going to follow as well, but Crisis stopped him by putting his hand on his left shoulder, making him wince in pain.

“I’ve also noticed another desire of yours, Ceailean. You don’t show it often, but every once in a while I see it in your eyes. Something closely guarded, something personal.” Ceailean’s face became serious. “Would you like to voice your concern for that as well. I’m here to listen to all your needs.”

Ceailean only turned his head slightly. “It’s… something I want to forget.”

“I see. I understand. Just remember that I’m here.”

Ceailean nodded and walked back towards the others.