Interlude 2

FOLLOW YOU

So you can drag me through hell

If it meant I could hold your hand

I will follow you 'cause I'm under your spell

And you can throw me to the flames

I will follow you, I will follow you

- Bring Me the Horizon

The sky was covered with a thick blanket of gray clouds that muted the usual vibrant colors of fall. The leaves, once a riot of reds, oranges, and yellows, now appeared subdued and slightly damp from the cool drizzle that fell gently from the sky. The air was crisp, carrying with it the unmistakable scent of damp earth and fallen leaves. As Seth stood under Sarah's tree, his eyes fixed on the sprawling city below, the light drizzle painted the world around him in a soft, silvery haze. The tree’s branches reached out like open arms, as if welcoming the two souls about to be united under its sheltering canopy.

In the distance, the cityscape of Cerulean City seemed to blend seamlessly with the muted landscape. The soft pitter-patter of raindrops on rooftops created a soothing rhythm that harmonized with the occasional rustle of the autumn breeze. Misty tendrils hugged the city's buildings, adding an air of mystery to the view.

Sarah's approach brought a radiant glow to the scene. She walked gracefully towards Seth, her white dress a stark contrast against the muted backdrop. Her smile was like a beacon of warmth that dispelled the coolness of the drizzle, and her eyes sparkled with excitement and love.

As they stood together under the tree, the overcast sky seemed to embrace them, providing a serene and intimate atmosphere for their special moment. The soft raindrops kissed their cheeks, mingling with the joyful tears and heartfelt vows shared between the two, creating a beautiful tapestry of emotions. Seth and Sarah exchanged vows, promising to love and cherish each other for all their days. The gentle rain, like a blessing from nature itself, seemed to approve of their union. Their love, like the fall foliage, was changing and evolving, becoming even more beautiful as time passed.

As the ceremony ended, the cool drizzle began to fade, and a sense of tranquility filled the air. The couple stood hand in hand, their hearts entwined like the roots of the tree above them, ready to embark on this new journey together. The world may have been overcast, but the love shared between Seth and Sarah was a beacon of light that illuminated their path.

As the evening wore on and the reception carried on in the backyard, a soft, velvety darkness began to descend upon the scene. The twinkling stars appeared one by one, adorning the deep blue canvas of the night sky. Strings of lights strung between the trees added a magical touch, casting a warm and intimate glow over the festivities.

The air was filled with the joyful sounds of laughter, music, and the rhythm of dancing feet. It came alive with guests swaying and twirling, lost in the euphoria of the celebration. The sound of their joyous voices mingled with the gentle rustling of leaves in the trees, creating an enchanting symphony of celebration.

Amidst the celebration, the aroma of delectable dishes wafted through the air, drawing everyone closer to the dining area. The scents carried the love and passion that Sarah's mother had put into preparing the meal. Despite her failing health, she was still a culinary maestro, and her dishes had an uncanny ability to comfort the soul and bring warmth to the heart.

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As guests approached the dining area, they were greeted with an array of delightful flavors. The sound of laughter and chatter intertwined with the clinking of glasses, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Remaining friends and family gathered around the long tables, their faces glowing with delight as they savored the delicious dishes lovingly prepared by Sarah's mother.

Sarah's mother approached with a small, weathered package clutched gently in her hands. The package seemed to have seen many years, its corners slightly frayed and its surface adorned with a few faded symbols. With a loving smile, Sarah's mother handed over the package, explaining, "Your father wanted me to give you this today."

Sarah's eyes widened with curiosity and excitement as she carefully unwrapped the package. Inside, she found a magnificent stone, unlike anything she had ever seen before. It seemed to contain fire within its depths, reflecting the light around it in a mesmerizing dance of vibrant red and orange hues. The stone glowed with an inner warmth, and as Sarah turned it in her hands, the flames within seemed to dance and flicker, captivating her senses.

Nestled inside the package, she also discovered a small letter. Her fingers trembled with excitement as she gently unfolded it and began to read the heartfelt words penned by her father.

My Dearest Sarah,

I hope this letter finds you on your special day, surrounded by love and joy. I know how much you despised my departure, and believe me, leaving you was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. But life has its twists and turns, and I had to follow my duty.

I entrusted this letter to your mother, to be opened on your wedding day, alongside the fire stone we've kept safe for all these years. I pray that circumstances have changed, and I am there with you, witnessing your happiness as you begin this new chapter of your life. But if fate has decided otherwise, then these words will have to serve as a reminder of my unwavering love for you.

As a soldier, details about our mission are scarce. They tell us that we should be heading back home soon after an offensive operation, and I cling to that hope, dreaming of being by your side once more. I hope you never have to read these words, and that I can tell you in person just how much you mean to me.

During my time away, I've been under the guidance of a remarkable General named Giovanni. He's shown me a passion for Kanto that I've never seen before. There's so much I wish to share with you, so many stories to tell, but I fear I won't find the right words to express the depths of my feelings.

Know that my heart is filled with love for you, and I find solace in the knowledge that you will be safe and protected. Your Vulpix is fiercely loyal and strong, much like that young boy Seth from next door. I remember how I evolved my Vulpix on my own wedding day, and I hope to give you that same chance.

My dear Sarah, if I am unable to be there, please know that you are the light of my life, and your happiness means the world to me. Take this day as a celebration of love and new beginnings. Embrace the love of your partner, cherish the memories we've shared, and know that you carry a piece of my heart with you always.

With all my love,

Your Father

Tears streamed down Sarah's face as Seth held her close, and Vulpix nestled by her feet. She clutched the fire stone in her hand once more, her eyes locking onto Vulpix with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. "Do you want to try?" Sarah whispered, her voice filled with gentle encouragement. Vulpix took a cautious step back, sensing the power within the stone. She carefully touched the stone to Vulpix, and for a moment, her eyes glowed with a radiant white light as flames flickered to life around her.

But Vulpix shook her head fervently, her eyes returning to their usual bright hue, and the flames quickly faded away. "That's okay," Sarah said, her smile bright and affectionate. The lighting flickering across the sky overhead of Cerulean City. "You're already a badass, just the way you are."

Seth cradled Vulpix, her body wrapped in bandages from head to toe. The morning light struggled to break through the thick clouds overhead, casting a somber tone as he sat beneath Sarah's tree. "You would have been so much better off with her," he spoke aloud, his voice a mix of sadness and frustration. "I'm just so lost, not knowing what to do. All I want is for him to be safe." He looked down at Vulpix, and despite the disappointment of failing to defeat Misty, he couldn't find it in his heart to be angry with her. She had exceeded all his expectations, and he felt a profound sense of pride in her. As he sat there, contemplating the path ahead, a sudden flash of lightning illuminated the sky, brightening his otherwise dreary surroundings.