Chapter 5 - Persistence

Elduran's eyes fluttered open, revealing a large figure looming above, obscuring his entire view. Feigning sleep, Elduran cautiously opened his eyes wider, recognizing the figure as a Golurk engaged in some form of dialogue with Heracross. Striving to stay motionless, Elduran strained to comprehend Heracross's words but understood very little. One certainty emerged in Elduran's mind: Heracross did not perceive Golurk as a threat. He hoped that Vivillon was the one orchestrating the conversation. She was the sole Pokémon he could comprehend with the depth a human might grasp a Pokémon, or so he believed.

Gollurk might have been a ghost, but Elduran knew they were among the friendliest Pokémon around. These mechanical beings, shrouded in mystery as to their origin, functioned precisely like any other Pokémon. They could faint, learn moves, die, and fit into a Pokéball just like their organic counterparts, possessing the uncanny ability to convert into a digital form—or something akin to it. Though the specifics remained a mystery that Elduran had trouble buying into, surely someone must have deciphered this digital transformation. What was clear to all was that these Pokémon didn't turn into mere software, beyond the reach of hackers and immune to deletion. Yet, they could be transferred with digital devices, provided their digital form remained intact. To this day, no one had succeeded in duplicating or altering them when they existed in this state; it was a concept that baffled Elduran. Destroying their Pokéball merely resulted in their release. Anyone brazen enough to attack a Pokémon Storage Facility would unleash a veritable zoo, set free by the servers' destruction.

He had faith in Heracross, but more crucially, he trusted Vivillon. Therefore, he ceased feigning slumber and began to rise, mindful that Aisha still lay beside him in deep sleep. Rising with care, he nonetheless managed to gently nudge the Cyndaquil nestled by his foot. It seemed unbothered and rather attentive to the soft conversation between Heracross and Golurk, yet it perked up with enthusiasm upon seeing Elduran awake. It commenced trotting merrily in circles around Elduran's feet. Elduran took little notice, yet this time he skillfully avoided making contact with the lively creature. The cave was illuminated by daylight streaming through several openings, indicating it was daytime outside. He advanced toward Golurk and Heracross, noticing Vivillon engaged nearby as well. She was skillfully crafting an illustration with string shot on the cave wall, producing an impressive likeness of Golurk.

"Wow Viv, that looks pretty good," Elduran praised Vivillon.

"Viiii," Vivillon responded with a radiant beam.

"You're definitely getting better. So, what's the story with this Golurk? Don't give me that look—I know Golurk are harmless unless provoked, I don't distrust all Pokémon and you trust it won't harm me," Elduran continued.

"Heeera," Heracross chimed in.

"Sorry, Blue, I'm still not there with fully understanding you, but I can sense you trust it too," Elduran replied to Heracross.

Through Vivillon, Elduran discerned that Golurk acted as a guardian for the more vulnerable Pokémon residing within the volcano. At least, that was the impression he gathered, and he sensed its gratitude for their aid against the Cleavers. Surveying the area, Elduran noted the many lifeless Pokémon strewn about, innocent casualties of the clash between the ranger and the two Cleavers. Before withdrawing for the night, he absorbed much of the destruction, uncertain if Aisha had perceived it as well. She remained in a state of shock, and he worried for her well-being at the sight of the bodies and remnants lying around, though she might need to start becoming accustomed to such scenes. The Cyndaquil now dashed into the distance, and he pondered what might have disturbed it. He glanced at Aisha, knowing she wouldn't be waking any time soon. Checking his watch, he estimated he had slept for about six hours—one more than his usual five. He often mused that he might meet his end either at the hands of Pokémon or from a lack of sleep.

Among Aisha's Pokémon, only Togetic remained in slumber. Drawing upon its Psychic powers, Hatenna was skillfully lifting and arranging the Pokémon bodies against a wall where sunlight streamed through a break in the ceiling. Elduran regarded Aisha's Pokémon as remarkably intelligent. While Marill and Clefairy were aiding in the effort, they lacked Hatenna's capability to lift entire Pokémon, resulting in less efficiency. Marill was presently dragging what seemed to be the lower half of a Diglett—a grim spectacle.

"Hey Golurk, mind if we burn the bodies?" Elduran inquired.

Golurk made a hissing noise, and Elduran looked to Vivillon for confirmation. After confirming with Vivillon that Golurk was not only agreeable but relieved, Elduran began to assist Aisha's Pokémon. He picked up a decapitated Zubat head and a Whismur ear from the ground and added them to the pile being formed. Heracross followed his lead, gathering more bodies. Elduran estimated that nine Pokémon had perished in the chaos, eight of which were already piled up. He decided to let Cyndaquil have more time before dealing with the ninth. The lifeless body of a female Quilava lay on the ground, and Cyndaquil wept beside her. Torn apart, her figure was barely recognizable, and Cyndaquil was soaked in blood. Elduran sat beside the grieving Cyndaquil, remaining silent. After a few minutes, Cyndaquil turned its head towards him, eyes closed as usual. Their vision and smell were their strongest senses.

"Are you ready?" Elduran asked.

"Cyyyyn," Cyndaquil responded.

"I'll take that as a yes. You have a task to do, little one," Elduran said to it.

He rose, carefully lifting Quilava to set her atop the heap. It dawned on him that Pokémon possessed much greater intelligence than he had ever credited them for; they had arranged the bodies precisely where a fracture in the ceiling allowed sunlight to stream through—a natural chimney within the cavern. Elduran thought that Aisha must have definitely explained the intricacies of smoke and its exhaust to her Pokémon, and she and her team must have burned Pokémon corpses before; she was a trainer, after all. "Blue, I need large rocks. We have to construct a barrier around the pile so that only the smoke ascends," Elduran instructed Heracross.

Heracross understood, and so did Hatenna, who assisted with the task. After several minutes, they constructed a makeshift firepit with a small opening in the front.

"Come here," Elduran said to Cyndaquil. "You know what you have to do, right?" he asked.

"Cyyyn," Cyndaquil replied, nodding with tears in its eyes.

Elduran realized it was a male. He was asking it to burn its mother, but he was sure Pokémon understood necessity better than humans did.

"Unfortunately, I have no wood to help you start, so take it easy, okay? We need a long, continuous Ember. It doesn't need to be intense, just consistent. Take breaks as needed," Elduran instructed.

As he was walking back to Vivillon and Golurk, the sound of flames igniting reached his ears. Glancing back, he caught sight of Cyndaquil, a steady stream of fire emanating from its mouth, tears tracing paths down its tightly shut eyes. Elduran was overwhelmed with the realization that he truly felt a deep sorrow for the little one.

Half-awake, Aisha spotted the Golurk and carefully reached for her Pokéballs, only to find them all shrunk. Her Pokémon were already out; had she forgotten to recall them before drifting off to sleep? As she pondered this, she noticed Hatenna nudging Togetic awake, while Marill played cheerfully with Clefairy. She was asking herself if anyone cared about the imposing Golurk standing before them.

Sensing Aisha’s fear, Hatenna established a psychic connection, sharing emotions, images, and visions of what she needed Aisha to understand. Aisha realized that at some point during the night, after they all fell asleep, Hatenna had awakened to find the Golurk stationed before them, its back turned in a protective stance. Vivillon had awoken next, also unfazed by its presence. Hatenna conveyed that the Golurk was safeguarding them and even Elduran seemed to trust it. Aisha found this peculiar, but then Elduran's voice broke the silence.

"I don't recognize any of those Pokémon, Golurk, and I won't feign interest—I never feign anything. Yet I do comprehend loss, whether it's of people or Pokémon. You have my sympathy for that," Elduran spoke to Golurk.

Golurk gazed at him, his expression unreadable, before slowly nodding.

“Ever the charmer,” Aisha mumbled from the floor, half-yawning.

“Ah, the sleeping beauty finally graces us with her presence,” Elduran retorted.

“You really should work on your empathy. Are you like this with humans too? I don’t think it’s just a Pokémon issue,” Aisha remarked.

“You're right, why pretend? With humans, I’m slightly more polite by keeping my mouth shut. It’s served me well so far,” Elduran replied.

“You know, all this time, I couldn’t see why you and Gemma were ever a thing. But now I get it. She’s quite apathetic too but has the decency to fake it,” Aisha observed.

“At last, someone notices. What Gemma feels and what she says are worlds apart. She’s skilled at hiding it. We’re both very practical, no doubt about that. You really are insightful!” Elduran admitted.

“What went wrong with you two?” Aisha inquired.

“That’s not your concern,” Elduran replied curtly.

“Oh shit, you’re still in love with her,” Aisha concluded.

“I said, mind your own business,” Elduran insisted firmly.

“Okay, okay, my mistake. I’m sorry,” Aisha apologized.

"Golurk, it seems we owe our safety through the night to your presence. Safe or not, after all the commotion yesterday, I'm certain some dangerous Pokémon that rarely come near would have been drawn by curiosity. For this, I am grateful," Elduran said.

Golurk let out a sibilant hiss. Yet, through Vivillon, Elduran sensed his assumption was likely correct. He began to gather his belongings, eager to leave the confines of the Cave. The oppressive heat was starting to grate on his nerves. Silently, Aisha mirrored his actions, collecting her things. As she did so, her gaze fell upon the fire and the Cyndaquil.

"What is that adorable Cyndaquil up to?" Aisha inquired.

"Setting his mother ablaze," Elduran responded with a sardonic edge.

"You really can be a real jerk sometimes," Aisha retorted.

"Actually, that's precisely what he's doing," Elduran replied.

Aisha approached her Pokémon, questioning them about the events that transpired before she awoke. She appeared somewhat disturbed as realization dawned upon her. Elduran was confident she finally grasped that he had been telling the truth.

Elduran's heart quickened at the sound of heavy footsteps in the distance. He recognized them at once. A Turtonator emerged from around the corner. He couldn’t be certain it was the same one that had slain the Cleaver, but he suspected as much, given their rarity. The likelihood of encountering two such creatures passing through a cave was exceedingly slim.

Golurk began to advance toward the Turtonator, who glared furiously at Aisha and Elduran. Golurk placed a firm hand on Turtonator's chest, halting its movement. A tense chorus of Golurk's hissing and Turtonator's low growls ensued.

"Aisha, start retreating slowly," Elduran advised, a tone of urgency lacing his words. "If Golurk fails to hold its ground, that Turtonator is old and too powerful for us."

"I think you're right," Aisha agreed, her voice tinged with concern. "Fairy specialist or not, I don't think we can take it on."

Suddenly, the Turtonator began to flush a menacing red. Elduran shouted for Aisha to find cover immediately. An explosive blast of incinerating flames erupted from Turtonator, engulfing the entire vicinity. In the nick of time, Aisha managed to recall her Pokémon, as did Elduran—either's companions would have likely fainted, or worse, given their vulnerability to fire this fierce. They both took refuge behind a boulder, yet the searing heat threatened to consume them.

"Quick, release your Marill and have it drench us!" Elduran exclaimed.

Aisha released her Marill, instructing it to shower them both with water. From behind the rock, even the Cyndaquil sought shelter; the attack proved too overwhelming even for the fire-type Pokémon. At long last, the fiery onslaught subsided, but the ground immediately quaked as Golurk unleashed an earthquake upon Turtonator. Elduran peeked over the rock, glimpsing the Turtonator tossed about like a rag doll by the upheaved earth. Golurk turned its head, a full 180 degrees, hissing in their direction. Elduran interpreted this as a cue to flee—promptly. Thankfully, the direction opposite the battling Pokémon was their intended path.

Elduran signaled Aisha to follow, and together they bolted away. As they dashed through the landscape, Elduran stole a swift look back at the Pokémon remains—the field of ashes left by the incineration. At least the Turtonator had unwittingly done some good. Cyndaquil would no longer spend time attempting to burn them further.

The cave narrowed into a slender corridor, and Elduran doubted that Turtonator could even squeeze through, while Golurk surely would not. He noticed the number 112 painted on the cave's wall, and Elduran found it hard to believe that this cramped passage was actually classified as a route. Although Turtonator might not fit through here, it could certainly navigate around via a different path, as it was far more familiar with the cave system than Elduran. However, he surmised that their journey to the cave's exit wouldn't take much longer, considering Turtonator's slow pace the chance of him catching up to them was slim.

After what felt like half an hour of running, Aisha was barely able to walk. Exhausted, she collapsed onto the floor. Elduran halted, realizing they couldn't keep up this speed until they reached the exit. She was at her limit, while he barely broke a sweat.

"You know what? I've known you for merely three days—three fucking days—and I've almost perished on each. How does that even happen?" Aisha demanded of Elduran.

"You're pinning this on me? Seriously? Who set the tree Heracross was on ablaze? Who flailed about like a fish out of water facing those crooks? And today, that Turtonator... If not for the Cleavers, we'd never have veered off course into its path. My near-death moments usually involve clashing with legendary Pokémon. But with you, I'm starting to believe I'll meet my end courtesy of a Rattata or some pesky Pidgey," Elduran shot back.

Elduran perked up at the faint sound of footsteps, quickly releasing Vivillon and Heracross. Aisha, worn out, remained oblivious. Just as Elduran was about to unclip his bow, he stopped, witnessing who rounded the corner—a Cyndaquil, equally weary and teetering on the brink of collapse. It looked at Elduran with joy despite its legs giving out beneath it.

"What are you doing here? The farther away you are from us, the safer you'll be," Elduran advised the Cyndaquil gently.

"You’re a fool. That Cyndaquil is as good as gone—just look how tiny it is, it can't be more than two months old. If his mother’s really gone, he might not survive. Why aren’t you catching it anyway? It doesn’t seem like he’d object," Aisha urged.

"I'm already a weak trainer; I can't afford to take on weak Pokémon too," Elduran replied.

Cyndaquil began to weep upon hearing Elduran's words.

"The Cyndaquil line is among the strongest fire types. Why not give it a chance? They're rare, after all," Aisha implored.

"I don't deny that. If I didn't have Viv and Blue, I’d welcome him to join us. But right now, it makes no sense. I already have two strong Pokémon that give me the edge in capturing others. Why catch one so weak? With how inexperienced I am, he might remain a Cyndaquil forever and know only a handful of moves. That doesn’t benefit either of us," said Elduran.

Cyndaquil’s tears flowed like a waterfall.

"You realize that Pokémon, when trained from a young age, can become even more powerful than those caught in adulthood, right?" Aisha queried.

"I’ve heard that before, but I’m not convinced," Elduran replied.

Heracross and Vivillon tried to console the weeping Cyndaquil.

"Oh, come on, you two too? Viv, Blue might not understand what we're up against yet, but you do. We confronted Ho-oh together. Do you honestly think it's fair to take him and pit him against adversaries of that magnitude? It’s not just about power; joining us likely spells doom and..." Elduran began, only for a deafening explosion to cut him short.

Dust and debris burst into the air as Golurk emerged from a hole it had created. It gestured for them to follow.

"I don't get it. It's overly eager to help us, which makes no sense. And how on earth did it catch up to us? Viv, can you check if we're safe from that Turtonator? In the meantime, let's follow it. It hasn't given us any reason to mistrust it," Elduran said.

Vivillon fluttered ahead, striking up a conversation with Golurk, while Aisha stood up and began to follow. Heracross lifted Cyndaquil and joined the procession. Although Elduran frowned upon Heracross's initiative, he chose to overlook it for now. However, he did instruct Cyndaquil to illuminate his back to save the flashlight's battery; if it was joining them, it would at least serve some purpose.

After walking for some time, now clearly off their original path, Vivillon returned to explain what she had discovered. Apparently, the Turtonator was no longer a threat. Golurk was shielding them from a Pokémon far stronger than Turtonator, which piqued Elduran's interest. Perhaps he should attempt to capture it if the opportunity arose. What troubled Elduran was their path toward the mountain's center, likely leading to the volcano's crater—a direction that made no sense. The rising temperature only strengthened his suspicions.

"Golurk! We can't move any closer to the center. We're getting scorched here," Elduran exclaimed.

"Yeah, I've hit my limit too. It's impossible to continue," Aisha added.

Golurk pointed forward to a dead end. It raised its hand and unleashed a shadow ball. The rock crumbled away, leaving a hole roughly a foot in diameter. Light and intense heat poured from the opening, prompting Aisha to instinctively release her Marill and command it to drench them all in water. Elduran, concerned for the safety of his two bug Pokémon, quickly recalled them. Cyndaquil dropped to the ground as Heracross returned. Golurk steadfastly indicated the hole.

"Alright, damn it, I'll see what you want me to see," Elduran muttered.

He approached the chest-high opening and peered through. Below lay the crater; if it erupted right then, they wouldn't stand a chance. As Elduran gazed into the volcano's core, time seemed to pause. The crater was a vast abyss shaped by the fury of past eruptions. Jagged rock encircled the rim, a testament to nature's raw power. Far below, about five hundred feet down, molten lava churned like a restless ocean, casting a glow that painted the surrounding stone with fiery hues of red and orange.

Rivers of magma wound through the depths, emitting waves of blistering heat that shimmered in the air, distorting the view. Occasionally, a geyser of sparks erupted, illuminating the cavern with bursts of incandescent light. The echoes of hissing steam and the subtle rumble of bubbling lava created a symphony, while streams of cooled magma formed eerie patterns, frozen along the crater walls.

The air was thick with sulfur, a harsh reminder of the volcano's dormant power, as if whispering tales of past eruptions and untold stories buried beneath layers of ash and stone. For Elduran, standing at the brink of the cliff, it was a place that commanded respect—a reminder of the delicate balance between creation and destruction, shaped by the untamed forces of the earth.

"What am I supposed to be looking for? It's the heart of the volcano. I've seen them before; I battled Moltres and Heatran in similar places. If I'm about to be roasted alive, at least let me know..." Elduran stopped, breathless.

He saw it. A chill ran down his spine. Walking on the lava was none other than... Heatran. Elduran's mind raced—how on earth was this possible?

Eight years ago, he had fought Heatran in Sinnoh, at Stark Mountain. It felt like a miracle back then; by the time they had arrived, the crisis hadn't yet been resolved. Just a day before, Heatran had been setting everything ablaze, but then it retreated. Dealing with a legendary Pokémon usually warranted international aid; Kanto was always willing to send APSO, but often, by the time they got on the plane, the issue was handled. Legendary Pokémon were formidable, but a seasoned trainer with champion-level Pokémon could handle them. The challenge wasn't in defeating them—it was about how swiftly it was done. They could wreak havoc, decimate thousands within moments.

Outside Johto and Kanto, the only legendary Pokémon Elduran ever managed to repel was Heatran, with a bullet to its eye. The fires engulfing the mountain were ferocious; no one could approach. It seemed intent on incinerating the island by remaining nearby. With a handful of trainers controlling flying and water Pokémon, they cleared Elduran's shot through the smoke. The ground-infused bullet penetrated Heatran's eye and embedded into its brain. Like all legendary Pokémon pushed to their limits, it vanished after some violent struggles. How they reappeared, or where, remained a mystery. Perhaps Arceus made sure those creatures were immortal. So now the pressing question: did it simply resurface here? Or had it moved here after some kind of revival—if that was the right word—by some means Elduran couldn't comprehend, Arceus be damned.

Elduran strolled back to Golurk, standing right beside it. He tried to utter words, but they refused to form. On and on he attempted, his hands gesturing, lips almost moving, pacing in circles with fists clenched.

"This is hilarious," Aisha remarked to Golurk. "Elduran’s trying to hurl insults at you, but I bet after every curse he imagines you could flatten him with one punch, so he hesitates, tries to phrase it politely. Then it dawns on him he can’t. It's like a snake chasing its tail."

Golurk shifted its gaze from Elduran to Aisha, expressionless, then turned back to Elduran, patiently waiting for him to speak at last.

This narrative has been purloined without the author's approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

"Why the fuck is Heatran down there?" Elduran finally blurted, a dangerous glint in his eyes.

Aisha gasped, but couldn't hold back her curiosity. She instructed Marill to splash her with more water and slowly approached the hole Golurk had created earlier. Trembling with a mix of fear and excitement, she peered down and indeed saw it—majestic yet terrifying. Her instincts screamed to flee. This volcano, besides the volcano itself, was supposed to be a safe zone, she thought, though evidently mistaken. She stared intently at the beast until, mustering her willpower, she tore her gaze away and joined Elduran and Golurk.

"In the glittering realm of Diancie's diamonds, what on earth is Heatran doing down there, Golurk?" Aisha pondered aloud to Golurk. "Surely, you must want something from us?"

"Absolutely not, this situation is beyond us. I have no rifle, and I assure you our Pokémon can't face such a challenge. We're as good as dead if we attempt it, even with Golurk's help. Not a chance," Elduran declared, turning to Cyndaquil. "Now you see why I can't allow you to join us. Look down from that hole Golurk has carved and understand, little one—that's where my battle lies, against foes like that creature."

Cyndaquil, although crestfallen, complied with Elduran's request, making its way toward the breach in the cave's wall.

"It became undeniable that Golurk was not protecting us from Heatran. Instead, Golurk arrived with its own agenda. 'Aisha, might you release Hatenna? It appears I misunderstood Viv's earlier message. We must understand Golurk's purpose,” Elduran suggested.

Meanwhile, Cyndaquil scaled the cave wall, striving to reach the opening's edge. Catching a glimpse of the outside, it recoiled in alarm and swiftly returned to the group. Complying, Aisha released her Hatenna, urging it to communicate with Golurk and uncover its intentions.

Cyndaquil nestled by Elduran's feet, forming a small, coiled ball barely touching him. With its psychic abilities, Hatenna acted as a vital liaison between humans and Pokémon, able to convey images and emotions with speech-like clarity. After delving into Golurk's thoughts, Hatenna began transmitting its findings to Aisha."

Aisha turned to Elduran with a stern expression.

"You were right, it wants you to take it down. Hatennna described it to me; it thinks you can defeat it easily. I can't see how," Aisha remarked.

Elduran sighed deeply.

"Golurk, I have no idea where this notion comes from, but I assure you, I can't bring down Heatran. If I had a rifle, maybe I could do it, especially since it doesn't know where I am, catching it by surprise and all. But I don't have a rifle anymore, and what's the point? It isn't causing trouble. Last time, it was under the control of the Watchers; this time, it doesn't seem to be. Even if..." Elduran paused, realizing something.

"Lugia’s feathers, you're THAT Golurk. What was your trainer's name... Jack, right?" Elduran asked, and Golurk hissed, its eyes gleaming.

"Now it all makes sense. I'm sorry about Jack. He was one of the trainers trying to give me an opening to shoot. He was flying on you, commanding his Flying-type Pokémon while riding on your back. That flamethrower from Heatran hit you both. You're a Pokémon, you survived, but he didn't. That's your burden, isn't it?" Elduran questioned.

Golurk's knees buckled, and it lowered itself to the ground, its eyes conveying sorrow.

"I've given up on firearms, Golurk. I want to be as strong as Jack was. He was incredibly strong, your trainer. I heard he reached the semi-finals of the Sinnoh League twice. That's as close to the top as you can get," Elduran continued.

Golurk gazed downward, expressing a semblance of emotion that was nearly human-like for the construct Pokémon

"Listen, whatever I do, Heatran will return, you know that. Like I said, it wasn't its fault—at least not entirely. I'm trying to understand how the Watchers manipulate them. If all they do is provoke them and these legendary Pokémon have any free will during their rampages, then I'll return here. Not just to defeat it but with the knowledge to end it for good. That's my promise to you," Elduran vowed.

"This is Jack Dwild's Pokémon? Entei's blessing, he was such a formidable trainer. I saw a beautiful documentary about his life once. You, Golurk, were by far his mightiest Pokémon. I'm truly sorry about your trainer," Aisha added.

"I don't know how you ended up in Tenera, Golurk. I know you can fly, but it's tragic that the Pokémon that killed your trainer revived here, where you chose to settle. Perhaps you've been scouring the regions, searching every volcanic area to exact your revenge. Your reasons are your own. But my promise stands: if I can become as strong as Jack, I'll return, and we can have some fun tearing it into pieces. Do we have a deal?" Elduran asked.

Golurk rose, hissed, and nodded, clearly in better spirits than before.

"You know, I keep saying I need to get stronger. What better way than to have you as my partner? You could come with me and teach me to be a strong trainer," Elduran suggested to it.

Cyndaquil deflated again, expressing sadness.

Golurk looked at him, emitting hissing sounds like escaping steam. Elduran couldn't decipher it. He glanced at Aisha, who seemed to be communicating with Hatenna, translating Golurk's words. Aisha chuckled.

"It said that traveling with you would only impede your progress as a trainer. You need to start from the ground up, learn as your Pokémon learn. If Golurk joins you now, you'll never be prepared to face Heatran. Your treatment of Cyndaquil reveals you're not ready to be a trainer. Perhaps you should reconsider firearms," Aisha laughed.

Elduran stood up, kicking a rock in frustration. After a few moments, he took a few deep breaths and calmed down.

"Alright, I'll show you both I have what it takes. I'll return when I have five Pokémon, and you can judge if I'm ready for you to join as my sixth," Elduran declared.

Golurk began its mechanical hissing again. Hatenna continued relaying messages to Aisha.

"Elduran, I think it's taunting you. I like it. It's basically saying that if you come here to recruit it, you haven't learned anything about being a trainer. I can't even fathom what it's trying to convey. When the day comes that you understand, you'll finally know what it means to be a top trainer," Aisha explained.

"Now even Pokémon speak in riddles. Wonderful. Rub it in a little more," Elduran replied with a hint of sarcasm.

"I think we're done here, let’s head back to the route," Aisha suggested.

Golurk hissed again, and Hatenna conveyed the message to Aisha.

"It wants to walk with us until the exit," Aisha shared.

"Be my guest!" Elduran responded.

"Splash, we'll be alright now; it won't be as hot from here on out. Thank you for your hard work," Aisha said, recalling Marill. "Candy, you should rest as well. I believe everything that needed saying has been said," Aisha continued, as she recalled her Hatenna.

Golurk lifted the Cyndaquil and placed it gently on its shoulder, before turning to head back along the route. Cyndaquil continued to gaze at Elduran with a melancholy expression.

"For heaven's sake, could you stop looking at me like that? What is it about me that fascinates you so?" Elduran exclaimed.

Tears welled up in Cyndaquil's eyes once more.

Aisha placed a hand on Elduran's shoulder. He turned, curious about her intentions.

“What’s up?” Elduran inquired.

“Wait a moment, let’s slow our pace. Let them get a little further ahead,” Aisha suggested.

“Arceus shit, this is about that Cyndaquil, isn’t it?” Elduran asked.

“Yes, it is. None of this adds up. You’re not the sentimental type, so it doesn’t make any sense why you’re not allowing it to travel with you,” Aisha replied.

“For the Cyndaquil, it’s a guaranteed death sentence,” Elduran stated.

“Exactly. That’s something I would care about, but you? It’s illogical. Its death could ensure Viv’s survival, so what’s really going on?” Aisha pressed further.

“The extra hassle of catching it means I’d have to train it too. I don’t have the time to start with baby Pokémon,” Elduran explained.

“No, you really don’t have to. It can travel with us until you need your sixth Pokémon. That argument doesn’t hold up,” Aisha countered.

“And then what, throw it to the Tyranitars and Gyarados to feast on?” Elduran retorted.

“You know it won’t be a baby by then—trained or not, you’d have significantly boosted its chances. Elduran, you’re just conjuring excuses. I haven’t pushed much because it’s clear something’s really bothering you. So, what is it?” Aisha insisted.

“You know, your ability to read people is infuriating, have I mentioned that?” Elduran remarked.

“You’re still avoiding the question,” Aisha said, locking eyes with him.

Elduran met her gaze, wrestling with the decision to speak. Aisha could sense his inner struggle; he was on the cusp of revealing the truth but...

“I won’t discuss it. Forget it. But I’ll tell you this: Cyndaquil’s weakness is a factor, though it’s not the main reason, as you’ve inferred,” Elduran confessed.

“Fine, have it your way!” she said, hastening her pace to rejoin Golurk and Cyndaquil.

Aisha, Elduran, Golurk, and Cyndaquil ventured deeper into the shadowy cave, the path ahead a swirling tapestry of mystery and anticipation. Golurk, with its hulking form, was at the lead, ensuring they adhered to the winding route, ever the vigilant guardian against unseen threats. Its presence was a sentinel, deterring any lurking Pokémon from considering an attack, the whisper of its mechanical stride sending echoes through the cavern.

The cave wrapped around them, its walls resembling ancient, gnarled branches reaching out from the darkness. Shadows danced across the rocky surfaces as Cyndaquil's fiery back illuminated their path, painting the cave in warm, flickering tones. Its gentle glow provided just enough light to navigate the twisting corridors without expending their precious flashlight batteries.

Each turn and bend in the cavern felt like uncovering the next hidden chapter in an unfolding tale. The path grew narrow and then wide again, an unpredictable dance choreographed by nature itself. The journey stretched on, the hours melting together under the ethereal glow. As fatigue crept into their bones, a faint glimmer of daylight appeared ahead, promising reprieve. The cave mouth loomed like an enormous portal to another world, its edges aglow with the soft hues of evening, casting long, dramatic shadows across their final steps within the cavern.

Emerging into the open air, the adventurers paused, letting the gentle breeze caress their weary faces. Behind them, the cave stood silent, a guardian keeping its secrets sealed tightly within. As the sun dipped low on the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange, Aisha and Elduran took a moment to breathe, to soak in the vastness of the world before them, knowing that another chapter of their journey awaited beyond the stony embrace of the cave.

The dark soil from the volcano sloped down to the mountain's base, where it merged into a sprawling swamp that seemed to stretch endlessly. The swamp was an ominous expanse, shrouded in mist and mystery, its surface dotted with murky pools and deceptive patches that hinted at deep, unseen dangers below. The air was thick with the scents of muddied earth and decay, warning of hidden perils within its vast, wild embrace.

"Before witnessing it myself, I'd never have believed that a swamp could pose more peril than a shadowy cavern tunneling through a mountain with an active volcano. I retract all my remarks from yesterday about steering clear of the volcano and choosing to spend more days navigating that," Elduran remarked, gesturing toward the swamp ahead. "I think we should make camp here; it looks quite safe, especially behind those rocks where there's a broad clearing for some training," Aisha suggested.

"You're right, let's go ahead. I could use some coffee, but I need wood," Elduran said, releasing Heracross. "Blue, could you fly over to the edge of the swamp and gather some firewood? Be careful, that place seems treacherous," Elduran advised Heracross.

Aisha released all her Pokémon, then turned to Golurk and Cyndaquil.

"Thank you both for guiding us safely to the exit. I hope we meet again," Aisha expressed her gratitude.

Golurk placed Cyndaquil down, turned around, and started walking back into the cave.

"Hey, where are you going? Are you really going to leave Cyndaquil alone?" Aisha inquired.

Golurk emitted a prolonged mechanical hissing noise as he continued walking.

"Candy, please tell me what it said," Aisha asked.

Hatenna communicated to her trainer that Golurk respected Cyndaquil's desire to be left alone and to grow stronger.

"For heaven's sake, you've traumatized it. Congratulations, Elduran, you've truly evolved—from a merely unsympathetic human to a complete jerk and you did not even need an evolution stone" Aisha quipped.

Elduran paid her no heed.

He methodically set up camp, the comforting aroma of coffee brewing over the crackling fire. Heracross had dutifully hauled wood from the nearby swamp, unwavering in its loyalty. Aisha watched with mild amusement as Elduran released Vivillon, its colorful wings catching the lingering rays of sunlight like stained glass. Despite the hour of daylight remaining, the decision was made to rest before the evening’s training.

As they sat, sharing a quiet meal with their Pokémon, a palpable tension hung in the air. Cyndaquil remained at a distance, eyes fixed on the group, a flicker of defiance in its gaze. It was a silent vow—to become stronger, to be more than just the wounded creature Elduran knew. The little Pokémon was set on proving itself, determined to show that its spirit burned brighter than any ember. Aisha felt a pang of sympathy but knew better than to approach; some battles were fought alone.

"Gale, today we'll keep sharpening Baby Doll Eyes. You're nearly there—just a few more days and you'll perfect the move," Aisha encouraged Togetic. She then turned to Clefairy, "Luna, let's focus on Encore; there's much work ahead for us." Addressing Hatenna, she added, "Candy, continue with Life Dew, please," before finally advising Splash, "Keep practicing Slam."

Elduran quietly distanced himself from Aisha, motioning for Vivillon and Heracross to join him.

"Alright, changes are necessary. I commit to observing more attentively to accelerate your learning of new moves. Once you, Viv, master Struggle Bug, and you, Blue, grasp Brick Break, we’ll dive into strategies. I know, Blue, that move is naturally within your reach, and though I might not be the most exceptional trainer, in time, you’ll see I’m like a living Pokémon encyclopedia. Strategies might come more instinctively to me, but rest assured, Blue, like with Viv, we’ll hone them outside the realm of Pokémon battles as well. This includes scouting, gathering intelligence, keeping vigilant without explicit commands, and facing adversaries armed with weapons. We’re not restricted to just Pokémon battles," Elduran proclaimed to both, "Aisha might initially surpass us in Pokémon battles, but where we will truly succeed is by emerging unscathed from any encounter."

Aisha, as ever, flitted from one Pokémon to the next, as though she were gracefully dancing among them. Elduran watched her with fleeting glances, unable to fathom the subtle adjustments she was making to aid her Pokémon in mastering their moves. While he demonstrated a straightforward karate chop in the air to instruct Heracross, supplemented by a Machoke training video, his attention was largely focused on observation—not so much to aid his Pokémon, but to refine his own ability to perceive their needs. In truth, Vivillon was becoming quite proficient at Struggle Bug. Heracross still had a significant journey ahead, yet it showed signs of progress by observing examples of other Pokémon surpassing Vivillon's performance through learning moves from watching videos.

In the distance, the sound of fire crackled. Both Elduran and Aisha turned to see Cyndaquil practicing its Ember. Despite being just a baby, it possessed remarkable strength. Aisha couldn't help but smile. Later, Cyndaquil was seen tackling a boulder thirty times its size. Aisha almost rushed to stop it from getting hurt, but then noticed Elduran watching with admiration. Naturally, this kind of determination would catch Elduran's attention. Cyndaquil then used Smokescreen, effectively concealing itself within the dense cloud. When the haze cleared, Cyndaquil's eyes met Elduran's with a flash. Elduran's knees buckled slightly, as he barely managed to keep himself upright. Cyndaquil had just used Leer on him, and Aisha burst into laughter. Cyndaquil was showing off, trying to convince Elduran of the power he was missing by not recruiting him. Aisha was genuinely impressed—four moves were impressive for such a young Pokémon. As if that weren't enough, the little one was also training in Quick Attack. The moves it mastered were likely a legacy from its mother, who must have started teaching it before she passed away. Though still in the early stages, Quick Attack gave Cyndaquil quite the burst of speed. Cyndaquil could become incredibly swift, mastering Quick Attack, Flame Wheel, Flame Charge, and Rollout, zipping across the battlefield with ease.

The sun dipped low, casting a golden hue over the tranquil field where Elduran and Aisha had been training tirelessly. Their efforts drew to a close as twilight bathed the horizon in purples and pinks. Elduran, his expression tinged with both fatigue and resolve, motioned to Aisha. "Before you retire for the night," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, "there's something I must tell you." The weight of his words hung in the cool evening air, resonating with unspoken significance, as Aisha's curiosity piqued, her heart quickening with anticipation.

"My parents were well-off financially, and, like many parents with means, they intended to sponsor my first Pokémon. This way, I could begin my journey with something more remarkable than a Pidgey, Rattata, or Bidoof. They incessantly inquired about my favorite Pokémon, and I consistently replied with Salamence. Needless to say, choosing a dragon Pokémon as a starter was a terrible idea given their aggressive nature. Besides, affording a Bagon was akin to purchasing a house. On my fourteenth birthday, they presented me with a card. Upon opening it, I found it was the birth certificate and initial trainer ownership document of a Cyndaquil. It wasn’t a Bagon. While it was still a costly and rare Pokémon, it wasn’t what I desired. In response, I petulantly hurled the papers at them and caused a scene, even declaring my hatred for them. I was so incredibly spoiled. Merely two weeks later... Kyogre struck, and my parents perished while their son remained in anger towards them. The baby Cyndaquil also perished at the location where it awaited my sixteenth birthday. So, that Cyndaquil you see over there only dredges up painful memories. It might sound foolish to you," Elduran recounted.

"Actually, Elduran, it seems like a valid reason to avoid having a Cyndaquil around. I completely understand, and thank you for sharing," Aisha replied, keeping her response succinct as she noticed Elduran's eyes glistening. He was too proud to allow tears to fall.

"I know I am wired differently than most. If you were in my position, you'd likely make it your partner, honoring the choice your parents made. But I just can't see it that way. Given my path, training a young Pokémon isn't feasible—I wasn't lying to Golurk. My confrontation with the Watchers could arrive in six months or merely six days," Elduran explained.

"You're right; if I were in your shoes, I would let it be my partner. But people differ. Regarding age, you're mistaken. Young Pokémon learn at an accelerated pace. Pre-evolved forms grasp things more swiftly. Humans are similar, learning rapidly in youth. Just like mastering a first language, you witnessed today that Cyndaquil knows nearly five established moves thanks to its nurturing mother. Imagine what young Pokémon can accomplish with humans. The reason a trainer's first Pokémon is often their strongest is that they begin young alongside the trainer. Maybe not in six days, but within six weeks, I wager that Cyndaquil will surpass both Vivillon and Heracross. I don't understand why more trainers don't recognize this," Aisha expressed.

"I hear you, but my mind just struggles to accept it," Elduran replied.

Aisha regarded Elduran with a knowing smile before speaking, "You're aware of the Johto Champion, Rurik, aren't you?"

Elduran's eyebrows arched in curiosity. "Who isn't? What's notable about him?" he returned, clearly intrigued.

"Well," Aisha began with a glint of admiration in her eyes, "every Pokémon in his team was hatched from an egg, save for his Eevee, which was barely more than a month old when they began their journey together."

This revelation left Elduran momentarily speechless, admiration wrestling with disbelief. "That's truly something remarkable," he admitted, feeling a flicker of awe at the thought of nurturing an entire team from infancy to championship glory. Elduran appreciated being listened to and offered a moment of respite. "Thanks, Aisha. Your insights are refreshing, bringing clarity to my convoluted thoughts."

As night descended, casting its shadow over the duo's camp, Aisha offered a warm farewell. "It's nothing. After all," she added with a hint of fondness, "I'm here to help organize your chaos. Good night, Elduran."

The first light of dawn unveiled a vast canvas painted with strokes of orange and pink. The morning air was crisp, an awakening breath amid the weight of the surrounding shadows. As Elduran and Aisha meticulously prepared their belongings, their minds were burdened by the anticipation of navigating the swamp's murky depths. Elduran, ever vigilant, scanned the horizon. Aisha, meanwhile, seemed serene, exuding calm that masked the trepidation of their forthcoming journey.

A few paces away, Cyndaquil stood silently, observing Elduran with a mixture of hope and desperation. The flickering flame on its back was not just a source of heat—it was an emblem of its resolute spirit. Yet, within that fiery resolve, a struggle raged. The small creature fought valiantly to stifle the tears threatening to fall, aware that any sign of vulnerability might seal the finality of Elduran's decision.

Elduran, determined to adhere to his earlier resolution, bore an expression of stoic resolve. Carefully, he aligned his focus towards the path stretching before them, mentally bracing for the unknown dangers hidden within the swamp's embrace. Just as the duo took their first steps forward, breaking the silence of the morning, the air was pierced by Cyndaquil's heart-wrenching cries. The Pokémon's voice quivered, exuding a raw plea that resonated with the untamed wilderness around them. Despite knowing the odds, it appealed to Elduran, not with words, but with the purity of its emotion.

Elduran's heart, encased by a self-imposed barrier of practicality and past wounds, trembled at the sound. He hesitated, casting a glance over his shoulder. The sight that met him was one of genuine, unguarded determination, and he found himself ensnared by those tear-filled eyes. Something deep within him stirred—a tidal wave that broke over his defenses, unveiling a part of his soul he had long shrouded in shadow.

A lone tear escaped Elduran’s eye, shimmering in the burgeoning sunlight as he knelt, waiting for the little Pokémon. Cyndaquil, without hesitation, bounded forward, landing gently in the crook of his arms. Elduran gently caressed the Pokémon's head, feeling the warmth of its spirit. Setting Cyndaquil down, he presented a Poké Ball.

With a radiant smile, Cyndaquil charged forward, tapping the Poké Ball with enthusiasm. As the device sealed Cyndaquil's fate, Elduran knew—more than acquiring a partner, he had regained a part of himself, setting the stage for their adventures to come.