Chapter 15: An Adaptation

POV – TRIXIE

Perched on a branch with trusty apple in hand, Trixie surveyed the camp at the edge of the Forest of Focus. This place, nestled somewhere within the forest that used to be her home, was now a temporary spot for the group. The forest, with its dense and towering trees, felt so different from the gentler, sparser woodlands they had just travelled through in the soothing wetlands.

The gentle rain had faded to a light, playful drizzle, leaving the air fresh and the ground just a little damp. The campsite, cleverly tucked under the thick canopy of the forest, stayed mostly dry. The earth was a bit moist, but thankfully, it wasn’t soggy enough to make things squishy, so setting up tents wasn’t too tricky.

The students moved about their tasks with a quieter energy than usual, the day’s events with the Bisharp casting a gloomy shadow, especially over Siobhan and Jake. Trixie tilted her head, puzzled by this. Why so serious? she wondered. To her, the ways of the wild, with Pokémon claiming and defending their territory, were just the way things worked. She remembered her own family’s battles back at her grove—defending their home against pesky Skwovet, Hoothoot, and the like. Just another day in the life, right?

But now, as she munched on her apple, a new thought popped into Trixie’s mind. Maybe those Pokémon weren’t as tough as I thought they were, she mused. After all, since teaming up with Jake, she had seen and experienced battles on a whole new level. The world seemed bigger, more complicated, and the opponents were definitely stronger.

Her thoughts briefly drifted back to that battle with Mustard’s Mienfoo. The defeat had been a real shock, like a big jolt to her confidence. She remembered feeling so down, the sting of letting Jake down weighing heavily on her. But Jake had been so understanding and supportive, like the best friend ever. He and Mustard had spent extra time with her, practicing the trickier parts of flying. It had made her stronger, more agile, and way more confident than ever.

As far as I know, she mused, my parents never faced anything like that. It would be so interesting to see them again, to show off how much she had grown. Flying had definitely been her biggest win since joining Jake.

The camp, nestled snugly at the forest’s edge, made her feel safe and cozy. The trees’ thick leaves offered a comforting hug, shielding them from most of the rain.

Trixie knew she was an essential overseer of the camp setup, a role she took very seriously. She buzzed from one student to another, inspecting their work with a keen eye. She made sure everything was just right, ensuring their efforts met her high standards—for her and Jake’s comfort, of course.

In between her ‘supervisory’ duties, Trixie always found time for a little play—swooping down to snatch an apple here, playfully buzzing around a head there. These were just her ways of making sure the camp had a happy vibe, keeping everyone’s spirits high. They’d be lost without me, she thought with a grin.

As the campfire began to crackle and sparkle, its warm glow bathed the campsite, touching both the trainers and their Pokémon friends. Around the fire, a circle had formed. The trainers were trying to unwind, their light-hearted chatter and bursts of laughter breaking through the stillness of the evening.

Siobhan, whom Trixie had grown particularly fond of, was busy preparing a meal that sent inviting aromas wafting through the air. Herbie, her Bulbasaur, sat beside her, watching her every move with the same curious look in his eyes.

Not far from them, Ciara sat with Kaida, the Pokémon’s eyes reflecting the flickering flames. Ciara’s newly captured Pawniard was still in its Pokéball, resting and healing from the battle earlier. Ciara’s expression seemed thoughtful, but she was quiet, just like always.

Jab and Bab were deep in an animated discussion, probably talking about today’s events. Jab’s Squirtle sat beside him, not doing much of anything, really. Bab’s Mienfoo was quite literally laid out on its back, looking like it was napping—a complete contrast to the super serious Mienfoo Trixie had battled earlier. What a lazy Pokémon, she scoffed to herself, lying back on her branch.

Siobhan, noticing her, offered a welcome distraction. “Hey, Trixie, want to try some real Pokémon food?” she asked.

Trixie’s eyes lit up, and with an excited squeak, she quickly swooped down to taste the offering. The flavours were new and exciting, a delightful change from her usual snacks. Wow, this is amazing! she thought, her taste buds dancing with joy.

Just as she was about to dive into the bowl of Pokémon food, her mouth watering with anticipation, she felt a light bop on the head.

“Hey there, Little Miss Trixie,” Jake teased with a wry smile, “I swear all you’ve done today is eat… not much help with setting up camp, huh?”

“Hey! I’ve been super helpful, you know!” Trixie protested, her cheeks puffed out in a huffy little pout.

Jake chuckled. “Oh really, with what exactly? Well, maybe you’re just the best mascot we could ask for, Trix,” he replied with a grin.

“I am not a mascot! Look at how adorable and indispensable I am!” Trixie retorted, widening her eyes, tilting her head, and amping up the charm to maximum levels.

But despite her best efforts at being irresistibly cute, Jake just smiled even more, clearly not swayed by her performance. “Sure, sure, our adorable little mascot,” he teased, scratching her ears. Ah, the bliss! But no, she would not be distracted! Jake would know her wrath! What was it that Jekyll sometimes said to her?… “I will not stand for this insolence!” she emoled, though not very convincingly.

Jake just smirked, scooping her up. Her usual charm offensive wasn’t working as well on Jake anymore. Hmm, I need to up my game! Can’t let him think he’s got me figured out!

“You really get on well with Trixie, don’t you?” Siobhan asked, grinning at them.

“What? With this little rascal?” Jake grinned. “More like I’m not sure what she would do without me.”

Trixie puffed up her cheeks again. “That’s my line!” she buzzed at Jake, poking his cheek.

Siobhan’s Bulbasaur, Herbie, commented, “She does keep things interesting, doesn’t she?”

“Hey, I’m not just interesting, I’m very important!” Trixie chirped back, puffing up proudly.

Jake laughed and pulled her into a hug. “You’re definitely an important part of the team, even if you’re a bit of a handful at times,” he said affectionately. “But let’s not get sidetracked. We’ve got an important job to do.”

Siobhan nodded warmly. “You’ve got to introduce your new team member, huh? No worries, we’ll save some food for you both.”

Trixie, hearing Siobhan’s words, swooped down from Jake’s shoulder to give Siobhan a big, grateful hug. “You’re the best, Siobhan!”

“How spoiled you are, Trixie,” Jake commented wryly. He turned to Siobhan, “Thanks for the assist, we’ll be back soon.”

With Trixie back on his shoulder, Jake walked a short distance from the camp, heading toward the river’s edge. The soft murmur of the water and the rustling of leaves created peaceful scenery for their stroll.

Jake spoke softly to Trixie. “Time to welcome our new brother, and well, sort of reintroduce Jekyll to the whole situation,” he explained, his tone suggesting a mix of excitement and a little bit of uncertainty.

Trixie dropped to the ground as Jake gently released Jekyll from his Pokéball, and the Mimikyu appeared with a little flourish. He seemed really happy to see Jake, hopping up to him, though he still looked a bit uncertain. He cautiously nuzzled at his trainer, who responded with a gentle pat on his costume’s ears.

When Jekyll’s gaze shifted to Trixie, the holes in his disguise seemed to narrow, and she felt an odd sensation coming from him. Maybe he’s just showing affection for his adorable big sister? Trixie thought.

“Ah, my esteemed trainer, it is a pleasure to see you once again,” Jekyll said in a tone that was almost reverent. “However, I cannot say the same for this… fluttering nuisance,” he added, casting a disdainful look at Trixie.

Trixie chirped back playfully, “Hey Jekyll! Missed me, huh?” She fluttered around him in a cheerful circle.

Jekyll, trying hard to keep his composure, replied, “Of course, how could I not miss the constant annoyance of your presence? You should consider gracing the farthest tree with your absence.”

Trixie laughed. “Oh, Jekyll, you’re always such a kidder! Such a little brother!” she teased, nudging him gently with her paw.

Jekyll bristled at the comparison, his cloak rustling slightly in indignation. “Little brother? I am a being of shadow and mystery, not some… sibling to be trifled with,” he retorted, trying to sound all serious and imposing.

But Trixie just giggled, “You’re just too cute!”

Jekyll’s demeanour shifted, his shadowy form beginning to gather energy as he muttered, “I must punish you for your insolence!”

Before things could escalate, Jake scooped both Pokémon onto his lap in a big hug. Jekyll, who had been on the verge of a more menacing response, was completely caught off guard. “W-What?” he stammered, his poise replaced by confusion and uncertainty. He froze, momentarily lost in the unfamiliar warmth of the hug.

Trixie, nestled comfortably in Jake’s embrace, giggled again at Jekyll’s reaction, having seen him get flustered like this before.

“Now, now,” Jake interjected, his tone gentle but firm. “I know you two are getting along in your own way, but I have something important to share.” He continued to pet Jekyll, who seemed to be melting into a rare state of bliss.

Jake started explaining the situation regarding the capture of Venipede, recounting how it had joined their team. As he spoke, Trixie noticed how confident Jake was becoming, clearly getting more comfortable in his role as a Pokémon trainer. He’s really growing into this! she thought with pride.

Meanwhile, Jekyll seemed too dazed by Jake’s affection to pay much attention to the story, his usual sharpness softened by the cuddles.

Jake finished his explanation with a decisive tone. “Time to introduce your new brother,” he said, keeping his hand on Jekyll while releasing Venipede from his Pokéball.

Venipede emerged from the Pokéball, his segmented body a vivid blend of deep red and black, with sharp, spiky bits that made him look pretty tough. His small, beady eyes scanned the new environment, especially Jake, with a calculating look.

“It is as I suspected. I have been captured. This is acceptable,” he said in a calm, detached way, his feelers twitching slightly.

Jake stepped forward; his expression full of empathy. “Venipede, I’m truly sorry about what happened to your mother,” he began softly. “I can’t imagine how tough this must be for you.”

He paused, looking for the right words. “We found you at the edge of the battlefield. I know this is an unexpected change for you, but I want you to know, if you agree, you can come with us, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.” Jake’s voice was warm and welcoming.

“The strong survive. My mother often spoke of her triumph over the Drapion that once ruled these lands,” Venipede stated firmly. “Now, it’s my turn to grow stronger.”

He paused briefly. “Tales were heard of the warm-blood two-legs. Mother once said, ‘In the wild, even in turmoil, lies the chance to evolve.’ Joining you is an opportunity for growth.”

At this, Trixie’s imagination conjured up a cute little scene of a group of tiny Venipede gazing up in admiration at their towering mother. The thought brought a big smile to her face. That sounds really cute, she mused, giggling to herself.

Venipede continued, “I accept joining your hive.”

Jake, who might not have fully grasped the depth of Venipede’s words, still understood that he was accepting. He reached out with a warm smile. “Welcome to the family,” he said sincerely.

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As Jake patted him, Venipede paused, seemingly unsure how to react to this new sensation. After a moment, he stated flatly, “This is pleasant,” almost robotic.

Trixie, still hovering nearby, couldn’t help but giggle at Venipede’s reaction, finding his serious demeanour both amusing and a little endearing.

Buzzing closer to Venipede, Trixie chirped, “Veni, it’s great to see you again!” She remembered their previous encounters and the adventure to find Jake with fondness.

Venipede, however, seemed less enthused. With a flat, unchanging tone, he sighed, "So, my fate is to join this hive with you. And I am called Venipede."

Before Trixie could respond, Jake spoke up, “I can’t just call you Venipede forever, and ‘Veni’ doesn’t quite fit, does it?” Trixie’s expression faltered for a moment, thinking she had come up with an awesome nickname.

Venipede looked cautiously at Jake, curious about what was coming next. Jake continued, “I’ve been thinking about it and have settled on a great name for you if you’ll accept it.”

Venipede's response was straightforward. "I await your decision."

“I think Arthrox will be a good name for you,” Jake declared. “Back in my homeland, there’s an ancient legend of a hero who rose to conquer against all odds. Your name will carry that mantle, with a bit of venom added to it. What do you think?”

“Name accepted,” Arthrox responded, his tone still flat but with a hint of satisfaction and maybe even a touch of pride.

Jake was delighted and reached out to pet Arthrox again. “This is pleasant,” Arthrox remarked, still getting used to the affection.

Arthrox then straightened up, antennae high in the air, his posture serious and focused. “I swear my allegiance to you, my trainer. Under your guidance, I, Arthrox, shall become a mighty Scolipede and overcome any adversary in your name.”

Trixie, unable to resist, chimed in cheerfully, “Welcome to the team, Artie!”

Arthrox let out a resigned sigh at the nickname, but then seemed to harden his resolve. With a finality that seemed to resonate deep within him, he declared, “Destruction will come to all Bisharp.”

POV – JAKE

Jake gently ran his hand along the Venipede's segmented body, who seemed to vibrate at his touch. It was a unique, yet, oddly satisfying feeling. A hard, chitinous exoskeleton that was a contrast to the softer fur of Trixie or the warm cloth-like texture of Jekyll's disguise. He noted how Arthrox's body was a mix of deep reds and green, with subtle pointed spines that were surprisingly firm to the touch.

He considered Arthrox's somewhat cold demeanour towards the loss of his mother, and separation from his family. "Maybe it's a trait of Bug Pokémon," Jake thought, it may be that they are just more analytical. Trixie also had a relatively quick recovery from the Bisharp incident, wondering if, like many creatures in the wild, Pokémon possessed an instinctual ability to accept such events as natural parts of life.

"This isn't so different," Jake reasoned. "Pokémon, like Earth's animals, seem to have a natural instinct for survival, and they adapt to their circumstances, however harsh they may be." He thought about the idea that Pokémon, while capable of experiencing a wide range of emotions, might also possess an intrinsic ability to accept the realities of their world – where the rules of nature often played out in raw and direct ways.

He knew that Pokémon could feel sadness – he had seen it in both Trixie and Jekyll as proof of that – but the incident told Jake that this world would demand a certain level of resilience. Perhaps this was another lesson Mustard intended to teach with this trial. "It's not about getting used to it," Jake thought, "but about acknowledging that these situations happen, and the only way to prevent or change them is through strength and training."

Jake smiled at Arthrox, feeling a sense of happiness at welcoming a new member to their team. However, he acknowledged the challenge ahead. Unlike Trixie or even Jekyll, understanding Arthrox's emotions and reactions would be different, given the Venipede's lack of facial expressions and visible signs of emotion, he was not familiar with antennae and what they might indicate.

"This will be a new kind of challenge," Jake thought, each member of his team would require a unique approach. He was determined to understand and connect with Arthrox, just as he had with his other Pokémon.

Jake glanced over at Jekyll, who hadn't reacted or said anything since Arthrox's introduction. He had been apprehensive about how Jekyll would respond, knowing his history. Cautiously, Jake tried to peer at Jekyll, expecting some sort of response, but found him unusually quiet.

Picking up Jekyll to face him directly, Jake noticed that Jekyll seemed to be lost in a kind of blissful daze. "Didn't expect this reaction," Jake thought, a bead of sweat forming on his forehead. Gently shaking Jekyll, he tried to bring him back to the moment. Jekyll suddenly came to, appearing to almost blush, if that were possible, as he awkwardly stuttered, "K-kyu," which Jake interpreted as a plea to be put down. Complying, Jake set Jekyll down carefully.

He then turned to reintroduce Arthrox to Trixie, who chirped happily, “Emol, emol,” likely meaning something like, "Hey Artie, glad to have you with us!" Arthrox responded with a simple, flat “Veni.”

When Jake introduced Arthrox to Jekyll, he did so cautiously. To his surprise, Arthrox didn’t seem to recognise Jekyll, giving only a nod in acknowledgment. Maybe Arthrox actually thinks Jekyll is a Pikachu, Jake thought, deciding not to correct the misunderstanding just yet. Jekyll, for his part, appeared indifferent, glancing back at Jake with little reaction.

Jake sighed, both relieved and bemused by the lack of drama. "Well, that went better than expected," he thought. Jekyll at this moment seemed entirely obsessed with Jake and seemed to pay little attention to anything else. This could not continue, Jekyll needed more positive connections. Trixie was playing her role as an anchor of distraction well, though she could sometimes get carried away. However, he couldn't help but feel that Jekyll could benefit from making a friend, though he wasn't quite sure what kind of Pokémon would be a good match for him.

"Alright, let's head back to camp," Jake announced. He picked up Arthrox, who observed everything with a curious, almost analytical gaze. Trixie and Jekyll settled back onto his shoulders, and they started their walk back to the campsite.

As they walked, Trixie tried to strike up a conversation with Arthrox. “Emol, emol?” she nattered on. “So, Veni, ready for some adventures with us?”

Arthrox responded in his usual flat tone, “Veni, Veni,” possibly saying. "As long as it contributes to my growth."

Jekyll, still a bit distant, muttered softly, “Mimi, Kyu,” which was probably. “Just don’t get in my way.”

Trixie giggled, “Emol, mol!” as if to say, “Looks like we’re going to have lots of fun together!” No doubt already plotting all the playful antics they could get up to.

Jake just sighed; he had a real mix on his hands now. An Emolga; Trixie was adorable, and he loved her to bits, but the Pokédex didn’t quite capture the chaos her kind could bring. She was a real handful—mischievous to the core with a bit of a naïve streak he always had to keep an eye on. A Mimikyu; definitely not easy to manage by any stretch. Still, Jekyll could be surprisingly cute when it was just the two of them—unfortunately, not when others were around. And now there was Arthrox, a Venipede, who seemed to bring a more reliable and disciplined energy to the group, though Jake found it challenging to decipher what was going through his mind.

As Jake walked back towards the camp, his mind wandered to the concept of type specialisation among trainers. Perhaps it was because the more different types you owned the more complex it was to have a deeper understanding and connection across the various Pokémon. Focusing on one type would, perhaps, bring a sort of shared mindset that made training and bonding more intuitive.

Jake reflected on his own approach. At the rate he was going, he was shaping up to be more of a generalist. This had always been his strategy in the games, selecting a diverse team of Pokémon to balance out weaknesses and strengths. However, reality was proving to be more complex. Dealing with the different personalities, ensuring they get along with each other as well as all the individual needs, and abilities of a varied team was a challenge he hadn't fully anticipated.

I’ll need to talk with Master Mustard when I get back to Applinby, Jake thought. Maybe he can offer some insight. Am I on the right track with this approach, or is there something more I should be considering?

Jake soon found himself sitting by the campfire outside his tent. The rain had given way to a tranquil evening, and a light breeze carried the faint, comforting scents of wet earth and wood smoke through the cool air. He looked around, taking in the peaceful scene. The flickering flames cast a warm glow, illuminating the faces of his fellow trainers who were gathered around a picnic cloth spread on the ground.

The setting reminded Jake of camping trips with his friends back home, and he realised that these new classmates of his were becoming friends in their own right, to some extent. All except, perhaps, Ciara, who still kept a certain distance.

Trixie was in her element, playing with the other Pokémon. She seemed to be involved in some kind of game with Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Mienfoo, though it was hard to tell exactly what it was. They seemed to be having a great time, judging by the playful sounds and bursts of laughter.

Jake, upon noticing Arthrox at his side, cautiously offered a bowl of what Siobhan had described as sweet nectar mix – a type of Pokémon food with a syrup-like consistency, allegedly irresistible to bug types. His expectation for a gentle acceptance quickly dissolved as Arthrox, contrary to Jake's assumption, lunged at the food with startling aggression.

Jake jerked back, a jolt of shock coursing through him. The thing could've bitten his hand off! Arthrox started gnawing on the food in an almost frenzied fashion. Not gentle at all. Perhaps a characteristic of his species' natural hunting behaviour.

Siobhan, seated not far from him, chuckled softly at Jake's alarmed expression.

"It can take a while for some species to get used to interacting with humans," she said, amusement still in her voice. "Especially for a Venipede. They're known for their aggressive nature."

She glanced affectionately at Arthrox, adding, "Looks like Artie here might need some time to adjust to the gentler side of things."

Jake nodded. "Yeah, guess that's something to work on," he said with a sheepish grin.

Jekyll, as usual, perched quietly on Jake's shoulder, observing everything with detached curiosity, yet Jake could feel he was content to simply be there.

Siobhan fidgeted, her green eyes catching the firelight. Tucking a strand of orange hair behind her ear, she spoke up, a bit tentative. "Jake, um, how did you end up here on Armor?" She paused, then added shyly, "You mentioned it briefly over lunch, but could you tell us more?"

Jab and Bab stopped their banter, turning their attention to Jake. Even Ciara leaned in slightly from her spot beside Kaida.

Jake felt a flicker of tension. His story was anything but ordinary, and he was still trying to wrap his head around it. "Honestly? I'm not entirely sure," he said, aiming for casual. "One minute I was in math class back home, next thing I know—I'm here."

The others exchanged surprised glances. "Were you at a trainers' school?" Jab asked, curiosity tinged in his voice.

Jake shrugged. "I don't think it was anything like that."

Ciara, who had been quietly listening, jumped in. "For someone with no training, you seem to have a knack for this."

Jake rolled his eyes playfully. "Thanks, Ciara. I do try," he said, earning a small 'hmph' as she turned away.

Siobhan, encouraged by the flow, ventured further. "What about your family?"

Jake hesitated, a shadow of sadness flickering across his face. "My memory's a bit fuzzy, but my mum's a child psychologist," he said. The group looked impressed at that; Ciara's interest noticeably piqued again.

"And my dad... he talks a lot about finance and risk. Sounds boring to me, but he seems to like it." Jake chuckled. "I also have a little sister. She... she'd probably miss me a lot."

The mood around the fire shifted as Jake’s tone grew sombre. Siobhan's expression softened. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to—"

Jake waved it off. "It's okay. It's just... strange, being here."

Bab jumped in. "So, Jake, you’re telling us you got zapped here during math class? Maybe you’re a wizard and don’t even know it!"

Jake couldn't help but crack a smile, funnily enough he had actually contemplated that idea. "Yeah, if only my grades were as magical as that theory," he said back, drawing a chuckle from Siobhan and even a slight smile from Ciara.

The conversation shifted to their plans for the next day, Ciara, with a glint in her amber eyes, suggested, "We should split up. The goal is for one of us to find the best Max Mushroom, so it makes no sense to work together." She cast a dismissive glance at Jab and Bab, who seemed undeterred. Jake knew they would not listen and end up teaming up anyway

Siobhan nodded, her thoughtful green eyes reflecting the firelight. "True, there can only be one winner," she said, a confident smile spreading across her face.

Ah, the nutrition specialist might be uniquely qualified to win this one. Jake wouldn't let her win that easily. He added playfully, "I’m on board with that, though don't think I'll make it easy for you, Siobhan."

"Oh, I wouldn't expect anything less, Jake," Siobhan's grin widened at him.

"But what if two of us find the same shroom?" Bab asked.

Without missing a beat, Ciara responded with a small smirk, "Then we settle it with a Pokémon battle. May the best trainer win."

Catching Jab and Bab's knowing looks, Jake sighed inwardly. They probably intended to trail close to Siobhan, hoping for an easy find, they would likely only find a beatdown.

Jake glanced at Trixie, still engrossed in her play, then at Arthrox, who was furiously devouring the nectar. With Trixie's sharp senses and Arthrox's natural instincts, we’ve got a pretty good shot at finishing strong in this trial, he mused. His gaze then shifted to Jekyll, who, as ever, was watching him with that curious tilt of his costumed head, the cutouts giving off an almost endearing vibe. Kyuu?

Sadly, Jekyll, despite his unique abilities, might not be particularly helpful in the search for mushrooms, but he was a powerful Pokémon, and his presence was comforting. Smiling, Jake reached out and gently hugged the Mimikyu, who seemed to melt into the affectionate gesture, a soft K-Kyuu escaping. Jekyll needed a lot of reassurance, and by now, Jake was more than happy to give it.

As the night deepened, the trainers began to settle down. Jake decided to keep his Pokémon out for the night. They returned to his tent together, creating a cosy little family huddle. Arthrox found a comfortable spot on the ground to burrow into, and Jake hoped he'd still be there in the morning. Trixie, the snuggler, curled up close to Jake, earning a slightly resentful stare from Jekyll. Unfazed, Jekyll took up a watchful position, eyes fixed on the tent entrance.

"Thanks for watching over us, Jekyll," Jake whispered, feeling a sense of security and warmth in the company of his Pokémon. As he drifted off to sleep, he thought about the day ahead, the adventures it would bring, and the strength of the bonds he was forming with his team. The sounds of the night forest, the gentle breathing of his Pokémon, and the distant calls of wild Pokémon lulled him into a peaceful slumber, in yet another night in the wilds of a familiar but fantastical land.

POV - JEKYLL

Jekyll watched. Jekyll considered. The new one, ‘Arthrox’, familiar yet distant. Jekyll remembered the capture, a moment in the past, fleeting and insignificant. The bug mattered not.

Confusion swirled in Jekyll's mind, a maelstrom of unfamiliar emotions. Happiness? A foreign concept, yet there, lingering at the edges of its consciousness. The small, bright one, ‘Trixie’, still a source of annoyance, now seemed... trivial. Petty plans of removing the fluttering nuisance felt less urgent, almost foolish.

Family. The word echoed in Jekyll’s thoughts; a concept so alien it might as well have been from another world. Jekyll knew loneliness, envy, longing. But family? Beyond the costume, beyond the mimicry. Jekyll had spent his existence in solitude, imitating in a vain attempt to belong. But belonging had never come.

Jekyll felt. Jekyll sensed. The fear from the ponytailed one, the indifference from the others. But from Jake, something else. Something warm, something accepting. A feeling Jekyll could not name but now realised had been his deepest craving. Nourishment for a starved soul.

In the darkness of the tent, Jekyll watched over Jake, Trixie, and now Arthrox. A family, a unit, a concept still so new. Jekyll, once a shadow, an imitation, part of something real. The longing, the envy, the hate—they were still there, but dimmer, overshadowed by this new, strange feeling.

Jekyll did not understand it fully. The complexities of these emotions were... perplexing. But one thing was clear—Jekyll had something it had never had before. Something precious.

Jekyll decided. Jekyll resolved. This feeling. He would not let it slip away. For the first time, Jekyll had something to lose, something to hold onto. And he would do everything in his power to ensure it never faded.