#why this sounds like something me and nebby would say

[storylocke]

Alolan Dusk 7

[Burnet listens carefully as Roark tells her about his encounter with the terrible Beast. They'd heard him talk about it before, but he always had a sort of fondness for the excitement and danger they were able to overcome. Rescuing Lillie, which turned into rescuing Lusamine, then rescuing Nebby. Each time with higher and higher stakes until the worlds were saved. No wonder he became the strongest, most dependable Trainer in the region! But this time, the recount holds a different tone. Just Roark, without the rest of the children there to chime in, and a deep sadness as the tale paved the way to tragedy. Burnet had always worried about him before, but how it must have broken him to be so helpless after being the one to fix everything for so long. He was there with Hau the day of the attack, and had never been able to say what happened to anyone. Had Necrozma some sort of power to make people forget? Or had Roark's mind shut out the memory of it? Burnet was brought out of these passing fancies and came back to the conversation with surprise at Roark's new addition to the tale.]

Roark:

When I was on my way to the Pokemon League, I found Necrozma again all crumpled up in a crater where I guess it had landed. The poor thing was so broken. So, I… I took it in, and tried to nurse it back to health.

Burnet:

You mean it came back to Alola? As early as that? [She had heard of such massive creatures living in the void, entire worlds or cities where these interdimensional beings had become gods of their homeland, and to think there was one right in their own backyard all this time!] Why didn't you tell anyone? 

Roark:

I didn't want it to land in the wrong hands. 'Cause, like, I know it belonged in Ultra Megalopolis, but the reason it's so broken in the first place is because the people there tied it down and used it for a power source. I couldn't send it back to a life like that... And I thought, well, the Aether Foundation probably knows the most about it, so they could take care of it! ...But Lusamine started this whole mess because she said it needed to be destroyed. [Shifts uneasily] I thought if I gave it to them when it's so weak, they might actually do it this time. [Sinks down] After all this, I almost wish we had… [His voice breaks as he mentally scolds himself. What a terrible thing to say!] It's not really a bad Beast though. At first, it was doing okay. Maybe even happy with me as it got better and stronger. It's just, Necrozma is in so much pain. So. Much. Pain. Once the energy it had gathered from our time with the Voices had started to run out, I didn't know what to do. I thought I could take it to another world, or ask the URS, but… I guess Necrozma had other plans.

[Roark sinks even further, almost ashamed at his naivety as he had to tell her. Someone has to finally hear the truth.] 

Roark:

I went to treat it one day, but it was gone. I wasn't sure when, or why, but I hoped that maybe it had gotten better and it didn't need me anymore. [Scoffs] But even in the best circumstances, I knew we were in trouble if it was gone. At first my biggest worry was that it might try to go after Lillie. Or worse, with its power over the Ultra Wormholes, those Rainbow Rocket guys would be back. But… I never imagined Necrozma was capable of stuff like this… I thought it was my friend… [Slams a fist on the cushion next to him in frustration.] I feel so stupid! 

Burnet:

You're not stupid. It just sounds like you were overwhelmed by something so much bigger than you. Or any of us. I can't believe you've been holding onto this all this time when-

Roark:

What could I say?! Knowing what happened doesn't change anything! It can't fix the Shadows! It won't make Mallow or Lana or Kukui magically reappear! It won't bring my mom back! And then I'd have everyone mad at ME when I can't do anything! [Bitterly as he gets up from the couch and goes to the window, glaring out at the city below.] If I ever see that monster again, I'll… I'll… [He grips the window sill, his body shaking as he closes his eyes. He takes off his glasses and tries to wipe at them with the palm of his hand. Hearing voices is nothing new, but the pounding pressure inside his head is enough to make him pass out.] Guys… please. Not right now…

“Stay back. You’ve upset him enough.”

Burnet:

[Had gotten up to comfort him, but the new voice suddenly catches her off guard. She stops to look around for where it had come from.] Roark? Did you hear that? [The young man doesn’t move, giving her the impression it had all been in her head.] 

[There comes a twisted sort of scream from below and Burnet's heart skips a beat to think of the Shadows being so close. Given their aggressive nature, she could only imagine a pair of them had met on the empty streets. Roark still hasn't stirred.]

Burnet:

Roark…? [Goes over to him and takes him by the shoulders. He had every reason to be upset, especially in the last few days, but talk like that always seemed to draw trouble. Tries to sound more upbeat to persuade him.] Hey. Maybe we can come back after we help with the evacuation, hm? Could take a while, but you know Lillie and Gladion really need our help right now. And once we all get together in person, maybe we can come up with a plan for finding Necrozma- 

Roark:

[Softly] More fools and their "plans"...

Burnet:

Huh? [She lets go of him, shaken by the suddenly darkened tone but she's also curious what's holding his attention so much outside. A closer look into the night and she can see a man on the street, his walk slightly crouched as though on the prowl for a fight. She feels she knows that stance, she recognized that distant holler.] I-it can't be… Is that Kukui? 

[Stepping into the light of the street lamp below, it's unmistakable. His hair disheveled and his coat somewhat tattered, but it's him. Kukui stares pointedly up at the pair in the window with hollow eyes and lets out a war cry to pierce the otherwise stillness.]

Roark:

[With a bit of a hiss] Not for long. [He looks back at her and feigns to correct himself with his normal tone] Not anymore. I’ll take care of him. Go to your room and lock the door. 

Burnet:

But you-!

Roark:

No coincidence he’s here. Such strong bonds, he must have come for you. Now go. [*Burnet stares at Roark  as his eyes seem to sparkle like gems behind his black thick rimmed glasses. She gives a frightened nod at the command, feeling she should listen, and doesn’t bother to question or even move before she watches him disappear from the room with unusual speed.*]

~~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: And with that, we're officially caught up to the prologue! This is where the original story ended, and I was just ready to be done with it, but with a bit of encouragement (and having already gone through the ENTIRETY of RUM due to writing the transcript for it) I really wanted to flesh out the connections between the two and cleaned up my original work. Anyone who read my previously uploaded chapters for The Light may have picked up on a few patterns to where this is going.

Archive

[rumor-weed]

I would love to see a drabble that features the Nezzer and Petunia friendship

Nezzer took a long, slow sip of his strawberry margarita, and set it back down on the table. He eyed Petunia for a long moment, struggling to hold a coherent thought as Jimmy Buffett's voice filled the restaurant among the busy chatter.

Wasting away in Maragaritaville...

"Petunia, you know I love Jimmy Buffett as much as anyone, but..."

"Don't you say it,"

"Doesn't this get old quick? It's like, the third time they've played Margaritaville since we got here. And the food's not that good."

"Shut your mouth, Nez. The man just died; can't you show him some respect?"

"Is that why you dragged me here? I thought it was just because you wanted drinks."

"Actually, I invited you here because we need to talk about you and... well, Lunt."

Nezzer stiffened, and he glanced around quickly.

"Nez. I doubt anyone at the Citywalk here will be worried about your love life."

"Love life is... a very... polite word. Two words, even."

"It's not like he asked for a breakup, right? You said he just needed time! That could mean anything."

"Petunia, I just... don't want to talk about it. Not yet. Besides, he sounded pretty final. Look, we can't all be Petunia and Larry, Bob and Megan, Pincher and Bartlebey... some people just aren't the soulmates they thought they were."

"I understand, but... if you needed to talk, there's no better place. It's just you and me, Nebby. You, and me, and Jimmy Buffett, of course."

Nezzer sighed heavily. "I appreciate that, Petunia. When I'm ready to talk... I'll tell you about it. But it's still... fresh right now."

"Wanna split something? Lava Shrimp or... ooh! Volcano nachos?"

"Yeah, nachos sound... good," Nezzer said, glancing down to check his cellphone under the table. The last text from Lunt was facing up towards him, and as Petunia waved down a waiter, Nezzer reread it:

Sorry, Big Guy, I just need to rethink some things. Don't take it personally, please. Talk soon.

That text had been from almost month ago. Last Nezzer saw, Lunt had been partying on the beach somewhere. Perhaps wasting away in his own Margaritaville.

Some people say there's a woman to blame, but he knows it's his own damn fault.

[alolanrain]

GOD what I would GIVE to read a fic of Ash immediately just clocking Gladion right after he gets teleported into that clearing.

Like maybe after Gladion starts asking him all these personal questions and pissing Ash off during the process, only to say something along the lines of “I can’t believe that they let a child take ca-“ and he doesn’t even get to finish. Next thing Gladion knows what’s going on is that he’s flying across the clearing somewhat and lands hard into the ground. Blood pouring from his now broken nose.

He only gets to gently touch his fingertips to the trickles of blood before a shadow falls over him. It’s Ash who looks murderous and cruel which the way his pupils narrow into beady dots. Gladion is frozen in fear when the other reaches for his sweater and grabs fist full. Yanking his upper half up so it’s an awkward position for him to Lean back on his elbows.

“Now listen here, you absolute asshole.” Ash hissed. Tugging the blonde up higher and it’s scary how easy he does it. “One, I’m not a child. I’m twenty-two fucking years old. I’m not a student but the TA of that class and don’t think for a minute That responsibility will stop me from giving you a Arceus-damn early grave right here and right now.”

Gladion can barely speak and his tongue felt like lead in his mouth. Eyes captivated by the angry brown.

“And second off, don’t think for a moment that Lillie didn’t tell me everything that she remembers about you.” Ash snarled and got even closer. Nose numbing against the taller boy’s. “Don’t fucking preach to me about responsibility when you abandoned her just like your psychopath of your mother did to you two. Do not preach about topics that you have no idea about nor the drastic consequences of things weren’t handled right.” Ash leans back and the sun made his eyes turn from brown to a molten amber. “I don’t give a single shit what you think about me. There’s a reason why the adults trust me so much more then you. And maybe a good reason why is that your own sister can’t keep a steady stream of contact with you let alone your fucking mother.”

Ash purposely shoved Gladion back. Glaring down with such unending anger and hands curling into shaking fists. The hight change between the two and the flight still held Gladions mind in a freaky blank space.

“Do not speak about topics that don’t fucking concern you, let alone ones you run away from because you can’t face the challenges that come with them.” Ash turns away and walks a few steps before turning his head a little back towards Gladion. Facing out to the sea for the most part. “If I don’t hear from Lillie that you’re not contacting her back in the next fucking fifteen hours, I’m hunting you down and give you a real bigger problem then an Ultra Beast could ever give you.”

With that he grabs Nebby and Pikachu and teleport out. Leaving Gladion with his head spinning and chest aching from lack of air. The only sound is his heart beating in his ears and the distant sound of waves and bird Pokémon up in the air.

[cosmirror]

@fluminas​ : “talk to me, okay? i can help if i know what’s going on.”     /     accepting.

She’s happy, that Lusamine isn’t looking for her.

She’s so happy that she’s not looking for her, she’s so happy that the woman who’s barely her mother / who’s not her mother at all doesn’t care enough about Lillie to bother with searching.  Her mother is well - known in the magical community, intelligent, rich and much - beloved, and if she truly wanted Lillie (  and nebby  ) back in her arms, then she would have her.  

She’s happy, that Lusamine doesn’t care and that means Lillie something like free, something like safe.  She’s HAPPY.  So why is she crying?

Barbara’s by her side, asking her to explain so she can help, and Lillie doesn’t know how to even start.  How to say that she’s terrified of her mother, than on some days she hates her, that despite all that she misses her, that despite all that she wants her mother to love her so badly, that she wishes her mother loved her enough to miss her / to want her back, that being loved by Lusamine is the farthest thing from SAFE and that being loved by Lusamine makes you feel like you’re flying, like a drug.

It’s too much.  It’s too much.  Lillie wipes at her eyes.  “I just —”  It’s a miserable sob, teeth gritting.  “I miss m - my Mother, even though sh - she ———”  Her shoulders crumple / Barbara makes a small, wounded sound.  “And she — she’s not e - even looking for me, and I wish —”  

She said that Lillie was ugly sometimes, or bad.  Is that why she doesn’t love her?  Is it because Lillie isn’t good enough to love?  But that’s not fair — lots of people love her — BUT THEY’RE NOT HER MOTHER.

“I w - wish she still —— loved me...!”

[diazevan]

vi. dragged away

Every Saturday, Peter joined the Starks for a picnic by the lake. 

Their perfect spot was a ten-minute walk from the house or a three-minute swing. 

Pepper had been dragged into work for mandatory meetings, which meant it was a party of three instead of the usual four. 

Peter sat with his legs dangling over the edge of the bank, his bare feet hovered inches away from the water. He fumbled with his web-shooters, firing practice shots into the lake. It was a new and approved formula, and it needed testing before he could take it out into the field. 

“Petey…” Morgan waddled over, kneeling by his side, “Can I try?”

Peter looked at her, smiling, “Of course.” He clicked one of them off his wrist and carefully wrapped it around hers, the nanotech modified itself, so that it fit her perfectly.

She stared at it, with wide-eyes, “Cool.”

“What’s going on over here, then?” Tony walked over, sitting down next to Peter, “I feel left out.” 

Morgan held up her wrist, parading the web-shooter, “I’m gonna be Spider-Woman!” Peter snorted a proud laugh, it seemed all the time that she’d been spending with MJ was starting to pay off. 

“Now…” Tony’s eyebrows raised in alarm, “That’s a scary thought.”

Peter rolled his eyes, “You wanna see how they work, Morgs?”

“Yes, please!”

“So…” Peter held out his arm, “Hold your hand out, like this.” Morgan mimicked his stance, “That’s it.” Peter hovered his fingers over the trigger, “And then, you press this button, in the middle…” He pressed down, and a web grenade flew into the centre of the lake, “Now, you try.”

Morgan laughed, excitedly; she pushed the button and a web grenade shot out, landing a little short of where Peter’s had, “Wow!”

“It’s fun, isn’t it?”

“Yeah.” Morgan nodded enthusiastically, “But...I don’t wanna be a superhero when I grow up.” 

“No?” 

“No, I want to be an astronaut. I wanna go into space!” She flew her arms out to emphasise her joyousness, “Like Nebby and Auntie Carol!”

“An astronaut, hey?” Peter grinned, he reached forward brushing her hair out of her eyes, “That sounds amazing, munchkin.” 

“You’ve been to space, haven’t you?” 

Peter felt his stomach give out, it was a seemingly innocent and simple question, which contrasted against the heaviness of the weighted answer. 

Peter died in space. Well, he blipped. That was a ridiculous name for it but it’s what the world went for. He disappeared from reality for five years and came back to a changed world, one where he suddenly had a little sister, who he loved with all his heart straight away. 

Also, America had elected their first female president, and Apple Inc went bankrupt and was brought out by Stark Industries. Peter didn’t know why they were the two things that came to mind first, but to be fair, he was trying to suppress a looming panic attack.

“Kid?” Tony cautiously brushed his fingers against Peter’s hand, “You okay?”

“I’m good.” Peter breathed, “Yeah, Morgs, I’ve been to space before.”

“Daddy doesn’t talk about it that much.” Morgan said, unsurely, “That’s where you…”

Peter let out a hesitant breath, he didn’t want Morgan to tread on glass when it came to talking about the blip. She had a right to be curious. She’d been born into an empty world and then one day, those they mourned, came back. She met Peter, who until then had been a fairytale. A story that helped her sleep at night. He was part of her life now, and as fantastical as that was, it was confusing for someone so young. She grew up thinking that her big brother had died, and she would never get the chance to meet him. The snap gave her a warped view of what death was, and she, and many others her age had to be taught the difference between people who die and those who had blipped.

“It’s okay.” He moved away from the bank, and knelt in front of her, taking her hands, “Space is where I blipped, it was very scary but Dad was there and he made me feel safe.” Tony jumped to his feet and stifled a cry as he looked away from the pair. Peter moved his trembling hand and brushed Morgan's cheek, “Space was pretty cool though, and you’d love it.”

“You won’t... blip again, will you?”

“No.” He shook his head, “You don’t have to worry, Morgs.” He pressed a kiss against her forehead, “I’m not going anywhere.”

The hairs on Peter’s arm stood on end, he bounced to his feet and took Morgan’s hand.

In the distance, he could hear the familiar hum of a Quinjet. It got louder as it flew closer, casting a shadow over them as it circled, trying to find the right space to touch down.

“Who is that?” Peter shouted to Tony, over the chaos, “Are you expecting someone?”

“No.” Tony shook his head, he squinted to get a better look, “Shit.”

He twirled on his heel and hurried to their sides. With shaking hands, he grabbed Peter’s wrist and tore off the singular web-shooter. He did the same, taking the other one from Morgan. He frantically looked around as he was looking for somewhere to hide them, he shot Peter a sympathetic look as he tossed them into the lake. 

Peter’s eyes widened in shock and bemusement, “Hey!”

“We can fish them out later.” Tony’s throat cracked, “You have to trust me.” He got down on his knees, grabbing Peter’s arm, and pressing his free hand against Morgan’s cheek, “Don’t say anything about Spider-Man, okay?” 

“Okay.” They replied simultaneously.

The Quinjet landed and the deafening sound of the engines died down. 

Peter was more than confused, and he needed answers.  Whoever this was, couldn’t know that he was Spider-Man.  Whoever this was, scared Tony.

The ramp dropped down and three men descended down. One of which, Peter recognized immediately. General Thaddeus Ross. The man who hated the Avengers and everything they stood for. Tony had worked with him in the past because he was obliged to, during the Accords dilemma. Tony agreed with the Accords, so did Peter, but Ross, well he was a separate issue.

“Stay here,” Tony told them, as he moved forward, closing the gap between him and Ross.

Morgan grabbed Peter’s leg and hid behind it, “It’s okay, Morgs.”  “Ross!” Tony put up a bravado as he skipped over, “It’s nice of you to drop by!” He gestured his hand back, “But, could you come back sometime--” “Let’s skip the formalities, Stark.” Ross snapped, “I’m not here for a catch-up.” “Oh, I thought you’d missed me.”  Peter took an unconscious step back, pulling Morgan with him when Ross’ two goons started to walk towards them.

“Wait….” Tony turned around, panicked, “Where are you going?” He sprinted over, “Hey, hey, hey--” Putting himself between the goons and his kids, “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”  “Games over, Stark.” Ross hissed as he stepped closer, “We know.” “Know what?” Tony spat, as he held out his arms, shielding Peter and Morgan, “That I’m a retired man having a picnic with my kids? Because that’s exactly what I’m doing.” “Don’t play dumb, Stark, it doesn’t suit you.” Ross scolded, “Parker is not your kid.” Indescribable anger crossed Tony’s face, he leaned forward until he was almost nose-to-nose with Ross, up in the face, “Say that again…” He raged, “I dare you.” “Spider-Man can’t hide behind you anymore.” “Spider-Man isn’t here, you’re stuck with me.” Tony threatened, “And anyway, he’s under my protection. Those special measures were implemented by King T’Challa himself...” Peter remembered when he was added to the Accords back in 2017, it allowed him to keep being Spider-Man, with a secret identity. He was under Tony’s safety net, which terrifyingly meant his mentor was responsible for every action he made. “Your ridiculously special measures have been overruled.” Ross sneered, “Parker doesn’t need protection. Not when he can bench over three-thousand tonnes. He’s inhuman and has powers he doesn’t understand. That makes him a threat.” “A threat?” Tony barked a false laugh, “From where I stand, that’s you.”  “We can do this the easy way…” Ross offered, “Or the hard way, Stark.” Peter huffed, and rolled his eyes, that was almost too cliché.  “I’m not letting you take my kid.” Ross nodded, “Hard way then.” Peter’s stomach lunged and he held out his hand, “Tony!” Ross pressed a device against Tony’s neck, shocking him. Tony cried out as he collapsed to his knees. “Dad--!” Morgan cried as Peter screamed out, “Tony!” “D...on’t…” Tony gasped out, as he clutched his chest, “Yo..u da..re…” Ross nodded his head forward, and his goons moved, to take Peter. Peter had two choices, let them take him or fight back. The latter was dangerous because if he lashed out, Morgan was in the firing line. He would also prove Ross right. That he was a threat, something to be feared.  His throat tightened, as he loosened his hold on Morgan, stepping away, leaving her standing alone. She stared up at him, with bloodshot eyes, “Petey..” She tried to grab his jacket but he moved away, shaking his head. “Kid…” Tony cried out, trying to move, “No…”  One of the men wrapped a strong arm around Peter’s front and pulled him away. “No!” Morgan stood her ground, storming forward; she repeatedly kicked the man in the shin, while punching his arm wrapped around Peter’s stomach, “Let go!” She tried to pry his fingers back, “Get off him!” The other man advanced, grabbing Morgan’s wrist, he forcefully pulled her back. Peter saw red, and he dug his heels into the dirt, “Don’t touch her.” Ross’ eyes glistened, he smirked, “Was that a threat, Parker?” Morgan tried to break free, “Let him go!” Peter knew he’d regret it but screw it, they were hurting his sister. He lifted his legs and elbowed his capturer in the face, knocking him off-kilter. He launched forward, punching the other assailant in the face, which freed Morgan from his grasp. Peter crouched down, taking her arm. They didn’t have much time, “It’s okay.” “Petey…” She cried. He kissed her temple, as one of the men grabbed him by his shoulders, dragging him away from her, “I love you!”  Tony leapt to his feet, he faltered, weak. Peter was sure he wasn’t meant to be on his feet, but he managed to fight back the pain, “Peter!” “Tony!” Tony charged towards them, grabbing hold of Peter’s arm, he leaned in, close, “Don’t be scared…” The other goon locked his arm around Tony, trying to pull him away, “I’ll get you out... I promise.” Something pricked Peter’s neck and darkness swallowed him whole.

--------------------------

Peter believed Tony’s promise. Tony had never let him down before and he wasn’t going to start now.  It had been twenty-six days. Almost a month in hell. He was in the R.A.F.T, he recognized it from Tony’s haunting descriptions. He was the only prisoner in his section. The other cells were empty. He couldn’t use his powers to break free because there was something built into the walls that dampened them. He wouldn’t try and escape, he knew his family, the people he loved, were doing everything they could to get him out. He knew that Tony hadn’t slept in weeks.  May and Pepper would act strong, and level-headed, but would end up calling each other out for it. Happy and Rhodey would be the ones who acted head-strong and got their hands dirty where they could, but they were probably as equally as concerned.  He expected that in her confusion and worry, Morgan would latch onto Ned and MJ, and vice versa. Peter hadn’t seen or spoken to anyone since he was dragged away from Tony and Morgan. The only human contact he got were the three meals posted through his door each day, but even then, he only saw their hands.  He’d never realised how those with powers were treated until now. He technically wasn’t inhuman but he understood them, they didn’t choose their powers and neither did he, so why were people like him, who were trying to do the right thing with abilities they didn’t want, treated like cattle?’ He wanted to get out.  Most days, he was a panic attack wrapped in a pale blue jail uniform. And then others, he just sat there, counting down the hours because Tony was coming, he knew he was. “Where is he?” Peter was curled in the corner of his cell, cuddling his knees to his chest. Due to his imprisoners not understanding his super metabolism, he’d lost a considerable amount of weight, he was vulnerable to every element.  He was cold, all the time.  He struggled to string a sentence together with falling victim to a violent coughing fit.  He couldn’t stop his hands from trembling. Sounds, like feet scraping across the floor above, were somehow distant and up close, all at the same time.  His powers were unreliable due to the dampeners, but he’d never heard a voice before. Not until today. “WHERE IS HE?!”  Peter sat up, he cleared his pained throat with a forced cough, “Tony…” He rasped as he stumbled out of his seat and limped to the cell door, “Tony!” He smashed his fist against the glass, “Tony!”   “Mr. Stark, we are so…” A new frantic voice called. “Cut the bullshit!” Tony screamed, “Where is my kid?” “Tony…” Peter sobbed, kicking and punching the glass, feebly, as he had no strength left to use, “Tony....” He flipped around, looking at the security camera in the corner, “Let me out, I know you can hear me!” He hit the door with his shoulder, “Let me out…” “Peter!” Tony’s voice was getting closer. Peter could hear his footsteps closing in. Peter pressed his head against the glass as he made as much noise as he could, like a toddler throwing a tantrum, but he didn’t care, he needed Tony to hear him, “Tony!” Tony burst into the room, desperately searching each cell for Peter. The time spent apart had aged him, he had patches of grey hair, his shoulders were slumped, and the skin under his eyes was bruised, from all his sleepless nights. Like Peter, he looked as if he could keel over at any given second.  Peter’s eyes widened in shock when he saw Tony, he punched the door, “Tony!” Tony stopped in his tracks, “Kid?” He uttered, he beelined for his cell, and started to pull on the handle, it didn’t budge. He turned, to the man who’d entered alongside him, “Open this fucking door, right now!” Peter heard a faint click when the door was unlocked, Tony yanked it open, almost tearing it off its hinges, “Tony--” He sobbed as he collapsed into his open arms.  “Oh, okay, okay.” Tony gently guided him down to his knees and held him close in his arms, “I got you. I’m so sorry…” “Mr. Stark?” The unknown man said warily. “I’m getting this place shut down.” Tony said through gritted teeth, “Do you hear me?!”   “Yes, sir.” Tony ran a hand down Peter’s back, and turned his head back, “Did you even feed him? The kid’s all skin and bone!” “Yes, yes...of course.” “Fast…” Peter muttered into Tony’s shoulder, “..Meta..liosim.”  Tony pressed a kiss against his cheek as he got up onto his feet, Peter followed with him, gripping onto his forearms as tightly as he could, “Let’s get you out of here, kid.” Peter fell forward, boneless, nestling his head against Tony’s collarbone, “Hey, hey..” Tony scooped Peter into his arms like he’d usually do with Morgan, “I got you.” “Sorry,” Peter mumbled sleepily. “Don’t sweat it.” Tony eased as he walked out of the room. Peter made himself as small as he possibly could in his arms as they headed out of the R.A.F.T towards the helipad. Tony sat Peter in the corner and took a seat next to him. Peter tucked his head on his chest, while Tony pulled him close, getting him safe. “What happened? I thought..” Peter asked, “...I thought I was allowed to be Spider-Man.” “You are, you always will be, kid.” Tony muttered softly, “The Agreement was drawn up way back in 2017, the one that makes me responsible and liable for your actions. You remember that?” “Yeah.” “This...was my fault.” Tony blurted, Peter sniffled as he shook his head, “Ross did this to spite me. You see, when he took you, he was about two weeks away from being fired, partly because of a formal complaint that I filed against him. He caught wind of that... and wanted me to retract what I’d said. So…” Peter blinked away his tears, “He took me.” “He made it look legal..too. He has people on the inside, you see?” Tony sighed, “They found a stupid flaw in the Accords, and he took advantage. You were gone for five years, kid.” His throat cracked, and he locked his fingers around Peter’s wrist, “Which means all the dates were messed up on the agreement, that gave him a loophole that he needed to imprison you here.” “Oh.” Tony brushed his fingers through Peter’s unruly curls, “He was still in the wrong though. He won't do this again...” His voice wavered, “ It took us so long to get you out because we had to prove that he was guilty. I was gonna break you out but apparently, that would have made matters worse.” “It’s okay.” Peter reassured him, “You’re here.” “I should have been here sooner.” “Not your fault.” Peter settled into Tony’s grasp as the helicopter started to take flight, “Where are we going?” “Home.” Tony answered, “We're going home."

You can follow this month of scheduled Iron Dad Angst on AO3

[victorluvsalice]

Merry Christmas Nebby!

@nebbychan I know you like Pirates of the Caribbean, and I remembered our conversation about you giving Jack a kid, Robin, so -- here’s something kinda related to that! I don’t know how exactly him getting a daughter goes down in your AU, but in a world perhaps a little closer to the canon as I recall it (at least the first three movies), here’s a possibility. Hope you like!

---

“You. Reproduced.”

Jack frowned at Elizabeth, leaning against the door. “You needn’t sound that shocked, my dear. Apart from you, I tend to be rather popular with the ladies.”

“I’m not going to waste my time trying to argue that,” Elizabeth responded, resisting the urge to roll her eyes straight out of her head. “I’m just shocked any of the women you somehow managed to charm would want you to know you’d fathered a child. Much less dump it on your proverbial doorstep.”

“In that, Elizabeth, we are actually in agreement,” Jack admitted, looking back down at the baby girl tucked into his arm. She snoozed away, completely uninterested in the conversation. “Probably have bastards spread all over these islands, but never had one find her way to me. ‘Specially not one this small.”

“Hmmm.” Elizabeth rested a shoulder against the door frame, regarding him. “Do you have any idea who the mother is?”

“Oh, a thought or two,” Jack said, with a smile that was a bit too light and cheery. You learned to tell after enough time spent with him. “Been trying to reconnect with an old flame. . .but, clearly, she wasn’t yet ready for the pleasure of my company on a more permanent basis.” He straightened up – as best as he personally could, anyway. “Which means I’m going to need the pleasure of someone else’s company if I’m going to have any hope of keeping this wee thing alive more than a couple of days.”

Elizabeth arched an eyebrow. “And this is where I come in, I assume?”

“Well. . .” Jack leaned around her, peering into the room beyond – and at the cradle sitting in the corner. “You know a bit of what it’s like, don’t you? I mean, you know where your other half is, roughly, but – I think I’m right in saying little Willy there wasn’t planned.”

Elizabeth hit him with a withering look. “Will and I had exactly one night together before he had to start fulfilling his duties to the Dutchman. There wasn’t much time to plan!”

“Ah, right, right,” Jack said, holding up a wobbly finger. “That’s about as much time as I had with this here nugget’s mother. So we’re in the same boat. Or at least adjacent ones.” His expression turned a little more serious – a little more pleading. “And – loathe as I am to admit it – this is one ship I don’t have much experience sailing.”

“Neither do I,” Elizabeth replied, then sighed. “But – maybe we can help each other. I could use someone else around the house, even if it’s just for a little while.” Her eyes hardened. “But don’t go thinking that this is anything more than a gesture of friendship. Which can easily be lost if you start getting–”

Jack cut her off with a barking laugh. “Go after you again? Really? After you burned all my rum and tied me up for a bloody kraken? Forget angering my dear friend the new Davy Jones; I’m much more afraid of you, my sweet Elizabeth!” He held up his hand, grinning. “I swear by Tia Dalma and any other god that might be listening that I’m here only to get some bloody help with the nappies.”

That got a laugh out of her. “All right, all right. Come on in and I’ll give you a few pointers I’ve picked up. And a cup of tea – no rum,” she added at the hopeful sparkle in his eyes. “You’ll have to start drinking less if you intend to be any sort of a decent father.”

Jack grumbled, but crossed the threshold. “Hmph. This is why I avoided the job for so many years.”

“I’ve no doubt.” Elizabeth looked at the tiny girl in his arm, already with a fuzz of black hair. “So – what’s her name?”

Jack held her up, and – well. Even if he didn’t particularly want fatherhood, the way his face lit up as he examined his daughter. . .seemed like it was in his blood nonetheless. “Robin,” he told her, tone warm and proud. “Robin Sparrow.”

“Not Captain Robin Sparrow?” Elizabeth couldn’t help joking.

Jack winked. “One day. Now, where’s that rumless excuse for tea?”

[creampuffqueen]

Friends and Family

An anon requested a Thanksgiving-esque fic with Nodrian and Osby and their kids, so here we have it! Feel free to send me more requests, this was a lot of fun to write!

1504 words

~~~~

“Ok, we’ve got diapers, clothes, formula, snacks, what else do we need?” Nova called to her husband, quickly shoving everything she’d listed into a large duffel bag.

“Bibs! I’ve got bibs! And a changing pad, too!” Adrian said as he raced into the bedroom, three bibs and a changing pad squeezed under one arm and a toddler on his other.

They had planned to wake up earlier, they really had. But they’d stayed up late to watch a movie with Lina, since with all the craziness of her siblings she hardly got any one-on-one time with her parents, and they felt bad about that. But then Atlas had woken up from a nightmare, and the twins were having a sleep regression period and- 

All their carefully made plans had fallen through, and now they were scrambling to make it before dinner started. Which was why everything was currently being shoved inside a duffel bag, and not a diaper bag. 

Nova zipped the bag up just as her wristband buzzed with an incoming call. The bag on one shoulder, and Atlas was reaching out for her, so she put him on a hip, then finally answered the call.

“Are you guys on your way?” Oscar asked. “I’m, like, really hungry.”

“We’re heading out right now.” Nova lied. “We’ll be there in about ten minutes.” They would not, but at least it would keep Oscar off her back for a bit so she could wrangle her mass of children.

“The kids are hungry, too. Better hurry, Jett and Opal really want to see Lina.” 

“Yeah, yeah, I know. If you want us there quicker, you’ll let me go. I have, like, five kids all on my legs.”

“See you in ten.”

Nova hung up, then hurried into the entryway of the house. Adrian had left while she was talking to Oscar, and he had managed to get Lyra and the twins together, the twins already strapped into their car seats.

“Caspian! Nebula! Lina! We need to go!” The rest of the kids soon found their way to their parents, and the gaggle that was the Everhart-Artino family made their way outside and into the car.

It took about fifteen minutes before they rolled into Hugh and Simon’s driveway. Lina, Nebula, and Cas hopped out as soon as the doors unlocked, the three eldest racing inside to their family and friends. Nova took the twins, River and Rose, while Adrian took Atlas and held Lyra’s hand to help her inside.

The front door was already a friendly sight. Hugh, Caspian in his arms, swinging the six-year-old around to make him squeal in delight. And Simon, laughing at something Nebbie had said. In her arms, the girls squirmed until Nova put them down, and they quickly ran towards their grandfathers.

“Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!” Ruby said, emerging from inside the house, a small bundle cradled in her arms. Oscar followed a moment later, as well as the other two kids, Jett and Opal.

Hugs were exchanged, and soon everyone was inside, seated at the extra-long dining table with mountains of food. 

“It’s been ages since we’ve seen you guys,” Nova said to Danna and Narcissa. “How have you two been?”

Stories were exchanged around the table, while Hugh let Rose sit on his lap to eat her mashed potatoes, and Simon helped River keep the gravy off her face. Max listened avidly to Atlas’s babbling, while the older kids entertained each other by making silly faces and shapes with their food.

It was perfect. Or… almost perfect. Something was missing, Nova realized. Someone was missing.

Just as she was about to ask their whereabouts, a loud knock on the front door sounded. 

“I’ll get it!” Jett said, scrambling from his seat quickly, with Lina and Opal soon chasing after him. Nova swallowed her bite of green beans and made her way over to them.

Jett pulled the door open, then gasped at the figure in the doorway.

Maggie. Maggie Artino… with a wriggling puppy in her arms.

“Am I too late?” Nova’s sister asked sheepishly. “I had to go pick this cutie up from the house, and he didn’t like the car so much so I walked.” The puppy, a brown and white spotted fluffy thing, squirmed harder until Maggie put him down.

“Can I hold him?” Opal begged, the other two soon chorusing the same question. 

“Go ahead, bring him to the dining room when you’re done.” Maggie took Nova’s arm with a slight smile, and the two women traveled back to their family.

Standing on the threshold, Nova could hardly believe it. Here she was, holding onto her little sister, husband smiling at her, friends sitting at the table, fathers-in-law and brother-in-law with her kids on their laps… Stars, she’d come far, hadn’t she?

“If everyone finishes their food, they can go play with Aunt Maggie’s new puppy.” She declared. Caspian and Lyra perked up at that, and even Oscar seemed excited. 

“Only if Lyra says so.” Maggie added. At Nova’s curious look, she continued, “Because Bear is going to be her service dog.”

“You didn’t.” Adrian deadpanned. 

“I did. She was going to need one anyway, why not start her young?” Lyra gaped at the words. She was completely mute, and had bad eyesight, hearing, and impaired movement. Adrian and Nova had said they would get her a service dog for when she went to school- in two years.

“Go play with him, sweetheart.” Nova said with a smile. Lyra nearly fell out of her seat with excitement, and she dashed off to go see her new future helper.

Dinner quickly died down, and soon everyone was in the living room with the puppy. Of course, as cute as he was, it didn’t take too long before he peed (at least on the tile floor of the kitchen) and then hid under a couch until all the grabby hands disappeared. However, he and Lyra had already seemed to form a bond. Though, Nova supposed, it was probably because Lyra could talk to animals. 

Hugh brought out a pumpkin pie that was quickly demolished, and they spent a long time cooing over baby Sapphire after she woke up from her nap. Danna taught the eldest three how to play Blackjack (gambling for pennies only) and the toddlers managed to get toys in every possible corner of the house. 

The sun was beginning to set. Ruby had retired to a bedroom to nurse Sapphire to sleep, and Oscar had gone with her. Maggie and Max had disappeared to stars-knew-where, and the twins were nearly asleep on their feet. 

“Mom, can we watch a movie?” Lina begged. Jett, Opal, Nebula, and Caspian were all asking as well.

“Fine. One movie, and then we go home.” The kids giggled and laughed and went off to pick their movie, and Nova found herself alone with Adrian at the dining room table. 

“Pretty good Thanksgiving, I’d say.” He commented with a chuckle. Nova scooted her chair closer to his so she could rest her head on his shoulder.

“Pretty good.”

“I wonder what it’ll be like next year.” She pondered.

“My star, lets think about the present.” Adrian laughed. “And the fact that we have seven kids to somehow get home tonight.”

“I bet there will be another kid next year.” Nova added. 

“With the way things are going now, how much do you want to bet it’ll be one of ours?”

Before she could answer, the children found them again, waving their chosen movie in their faces desperately. Adrian turned it on in the living room, while Nova made them some popcorn.

Caspian wanted his dad to watch to movie, and Nebula wanted her mom. Lyra was asleep on one of the plush armchairs, wrapped in a blanket and with her new puppy curled on her stomach. Atlas was nodding off, the twins were already snuggled together on the couch. Hugh was snoring in the other chair.

Nova snacked on popcorn with the kids, watching as one by one, they fell asleep. Atlas. Caspian. Nebula. Opal. Jett. And finally, Evangeline Georgia Everhart fell asleep on Nova’s shoulder.

A flurry of butterflies flitted through the window, transforming into a grinning Danna. Narcissa came out of the restroom, likely having slipped in through the mirror. The pair claimed a blanket and a spot on the floor. 

Then came Oscar and Ruby, smiling at their sleeping kids. Then Simon, and finally Max and Maggie.

And just like the kids, their friends drifted off to sleep one by one. Until it was just Nova and Adrian, curled together on the couch in a pile of their children.

The credits of the movie rolled, and Nova turned her face towards her husband. Adrian was yawning.

“We’re going home in the morning, aren’t we.” He murmured. He tugged her closer, and Nova relaxed into his embrace.

“Oh well.” And Adrian kissed her, and everything, everything, was right. 

Everything was right as Nova slipped into sleep beside her family. 

[cinnashaun-roll]

Story I Wrote at 10 years old

(Warning: It’s quite shitty and cringe worthy)

Prologue

Year: 3016

   The humans had barely saved themselves. By building a dome that acted like the Sun and protected them from “The Explosion”, the humans had accomplished their greatest achievement yet.

The Dome was full of the most advanced technology programmed to act exactly like the atmosphere but with false projections showing the Sun, clouds, and stars. Though it did more than just that, The Dome also brought the world together in peace during a race against time. One wrong move could kill all of humankind.

But what was “The Explosion”? 

And what caused it?

Chapter 1: Big News 

Astra POV

Year: 3015

My name is Astra, Astra Cosma Stellar and I was just a normal 12-year-old, until today... 

“Astra wake up!” shouted Mom, “ Astra! For heaven’s sake just wake up!” 

 “But Mom, there’s no school!”, I shouted back.

 “And there’s a reason why, but we don’t know yet.”, she replied,” We’ll find out in the news, and it’s coming up in five minutes, so you better hurry up!”

Oh right, I forgot. “ Can I call Nebula so we can watch it together? She’s just next door!” 

“Sure Honey, but make it quick!”, Mom said.

Ugh. My long purple and sea green hair just had to be so messy right now.

Nebula Galaxia Nova was my best friend since we moved here, 777 Starlight Way in Comett, California (we were the only state that still had an Old Era name). 

As I was running to her house, she saw me through the window and decided to go outside to meet me. 

“Hey Astra!” said Nebula. 

“Hey!”I replied, ”Do you want to come to watch the news at my house?” 

“Sure!” she said,” but I wonder what the big news is, I’ve always wanted to be on an adventure.”

 “ But it’s not like Earth is about to explode and we’re all going to die!”, Nebula laughed, her short, silver hair flying as she chuckled. 

“Of course not, that would be taking things way too far,” I said.

Back at home, Neb and I waited for the news on my family’s Hologram TV (HoloTV for short). 

And then it finally happened, it felt like the TV screamed at us “BREAKING NEWS!!!” the reporter said.

”As you all know, WWIII just ended and there is only peace now, but what scientists didn’t predict was that their idea of harnessing the Sun’s energy for the war would use almost all of it.” 

“ This means that if we don’t think of a solution fast, it will explode in one year, killing all of humanity!” 

What!?

I felt a sense of foreboding.

 A sense that there was an adventure ahead of me.

Chapter 2: (Untitled?)

Nebula POV

Oh my goodness! We’re all about to die!!!

Astra and her Mom are panicking, I’m panicking, the WHOLE STREET is panicking!!! We all knew we were going to die, it was inevitable.

“Neb! Hey Neb, are you alright?”, Astra yelled. She was snapping her fingers in my face, and her blue eyes were full of concern.

“I’m fine”, I said.

The truth was, I was not fine. Why would anyone be? 

Wait a second…  I’m overreacting. No one was panicking, only I was.

Then it happened again, “BREAKING NEWS!!!” the reporter shouted,

“We have a solution.”

“Dr. Bliss, would you have the pleasure to explain to us this miraculous idea?”

“Yes, I would, Hello my name is Dr. Maple A. Bliss and I am a scientist at the WSC (World Science Corporation).”Dr. Bliss said,” The new solution the WSC has proposed is that we build a high-tech unbreakable glass dome hereinafter “Project Dome” with projections and simulators for the sky, and more that can also protect us from the explosion.”

“May I ask, how will we build it in time?” asked the reporter. 

“Well, because the whole world is at peace, many other countries have offered to help us build Project Dome by having their best engineers build their area of the dome, which will be assigned. Our area, of course, is Comett”, Dr. Bliss replied,” but even with this plan we are still skating on thin ice.”

Oh, shoot. I thought we were saved. Oh, I guess some things are too good to be true.

“Thank you Dr. Bliss.,” said the reporter, “ Coming up next! Deadly hovercar crash on highway A70…” Astra’s mom turned the TV off.

“Bye Astra! Bye Mrs. Stellar!`` I said. “Bye!”, Astra replied.

Back at home, I went straight to my parents. They didn’t watch the news, so when I told them… well, my mom sort of freaked out and got all overprotective.

While I was in bed, I heard my parents talking, so I decided to go downstairs and eavesdrop.

“That’s it!”, my mom said,” We’re moving! This town just keeps getting even more dangerous!” 

“Shh! Sky, I have to say, that is a great idea, but what about Nebula and Astra?” my dad replied quietly,” What about my job? It took me a long time to get a job as the mayor’s assistant.”

 That was it, we were leaving. No more Astra. No more ice cream. Just silence.

“But that’s exactly why!”, my mom finally said,” If we don’t leave soon, they’ll start dragging you into this mess.” 

“Don’t you see? Our whole family could be in danger.”

Chapter 3: Crystal Cream

Astra

Today was Saturday, and I was so excited about my ice cream day with Neb!

When I walked over to her house she was ready, but for some reason, something was off. It seemed like her happiness was fake and she was worried about something. I don’t think it was about the news.

“Hey Neb, is everything alright?”, I said.

“I’m fine! Don’t worry about me! I’m fine!”, Nebula replied.

Uh oh, I knew something was wrong. 

Two years ago, in fifth grade, my teacher Miss. McGrayer gave us this advice: “Usually if anyone says they’re fine, they’re not.”

Let me add on to that: “Usually if anyone says they’re fine, they’re not. Especially when they insist they are.”

“Come on, stop daydreaming let’s go!”, Neb said in her “fake happy voice”.

“Neb, just tell me the truth or we’re not going for ice cream!”I ordered (maybe a bit too demanding because right then she started to cry).

“Neb, I’m so sorry! We don’t have to talk about it if you want.`` I said apologetically.

“And there’s nothing ice cream can’t fix!”I added, trying to lighten up the mood.

“Okay, let’s go”, Neb said between sniffles.

This time I heard a little bit of genuine happiness in her voice.

Going to the ice cream shop is always fun with Neb, and we go as much as we can. We’ve even memorized each other’s orders. Mine is a Milky Way Mousse Sundae with extra whipped cream, and Neb’s is a Simple Supernova Sundae. 

Today we did the usual, talk while eating our ice cream and stalling as much as possible.

   As we were walking back from our favorite ice cream shop in the whole galaxy (located in the Solar City Plaza), The Star Scoop, we heard very indistinct whispering and followed it to an alleyway.

“Are you sure we should eavesdrop? I don’t have a good feeling about this.”, Nebula whispered.

    “It’s fine (*cough*cough*)!”, I whispered back,” Anyways I thought you wanted to go on an adventure?”

“Yeah! But not a dangerous, risky one! “she said angrily.

“Shhh! They’ll hear us! That’s even more dangerous right?”, I whispered.

“Alright, alright, let’s start eavesdropping.’’, she said.

“Okay, let’s review the plan I came up with,” a girl’s voice whispered,” We’re going to hire, I mean, ask someone to help us who has connections to the city so that they can help us bomb this part of the Dome. And what I’ve concluded is that if one unfinished part of the Dome breaks, it will create a domino effect which will shatter the rest of the Dome.”

“Thank you, daughter, for explaining the plan you came up with,” whispered a man’s voice,” But my question is, how will we survive?”

“Easy!” she whispered back,” I called in a few favors and had a compact ship built just for us.”

“Oh no.”,Nebula said after leaving the alley,” Did we seriously just hear a plan to hijack the Dome? We have report this to the police!”

“No Nebbie, I think we’re going to have to do this ourselves.”

Nebula POV

I felt different after splitting up with Astra (to go to the store to buy a few groceries), like everyone’s life was in our hands. I knew that I should’ve stopped Astra, but once that stubbornly determined girl’s mind was on something, it was impossible to change it.

But I was so busy thinking about what happened, that I bumped into a girl about my age.

“I’m so sorry!” she said,” My name is Crystal Starr what’s yours”

Something about Crystal’s voice was familiar but wrong. I was suspicious.

“Um, Nebula…” I replied slowly.

“Hey, you sound kind of sad. Is it because I bumped into you?” Crystal asked.

“No”, I said.

“Whatever it is, you’ll be fine,” she replied,” Anyway, do you want to be my friend?!”

“Okay...”

“But first, can you do me a favor?” she said,” Do you know anyone important in the city? If you do, can you introduce me to them sometime?”

“Sure!”, I replied,’ My dad is one, so I’ll have to introduce you anyway!”

“Bye! I have to get home now!`` said Crystal,” Same time, same place tomorrow!”

Something about Crystal made me uneasy, so I decided that it would be good to tell Astra.

After getting back from the store, I dropped off the groceries and went to Astra’s house.

When Astra opened the door, she grimly said, “ Nebula! Guess what I just found out.”

[oops-prow-did-it-again]

Pokémon Retold: Ultra Sun - Chapter 13 (Alone Together)

Pokémon Retold: Ultra Sun on FFN

Pokémon Retold: Ultra Sun on AO3

Pokémon Retold (series) on AO3

Child of Unova on AO3

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Heeey look I'm alive, though I'm gonna go dark for those 2 weeks after tomorrow, I'm sorryy

In other news, if you read my Black and Black 2 stories, you'll maybe remember that there was a dude named Taven in them. As I mentioned before, Taven is actually an OC from a friend of mine, ClumsyReaper. They've been writing out Taven's story in more detail over on Archive of Our Own under the title 'Child of Unova,' though their penname is also ClumsyReaper over there. Feel free to give it a read! Taven's story seems like it's going to take a more nuanced look on Pokemon White's version of events by focusing on worldbuilding more so than the events of the game, such as how the gym leaders and League function.

Saying that to say, my version of Taven is set in a different universe from his version - so you'll notice some key differences between them if you do check it out. You'll also notice some other cool parallels between his world and mine, too, such as the existence of certain characters. Anyway, it's not that long and you should check it out :)

——————

Back at the entrance of Verdant Cavern, Elio had no idea what he was looking at. The Gumshoos, still rippling with that vibrant, strobing light, was growling and spitting at two people dressed in stuff that made them look like they belonged in an ancient episode of Star Trek. One was an older man based on the sound of his voice, while the other looked like a girl perhaps even younger than Selene, based on her squeakier tone and petite frame. Both, however, didn't seem to know what to do about the Gumshoos. Just as Elio had skidded to a halt in front of them, the man had sent forth a Furfrou, but chattered to his colleague as if he had no idea what to do with it. Just as Elio intended to ask them what they thought they were doing, the man focused his attention on him. "You, young man," he uttered bluntly, "do you know where a woman named Lillie Rae Aether is located in this cavern? We do not wish to intrude and would rather avoid confrontation with this creature." He flicked his wrist at the Gumshoos.

"Al-ol-a!" his colleague beamed, giving him a jerky, robotic Alolan wave. "That's it, right?"

"Zossie!" the older man snapped at her.

"Sorry, Dulse!" Zossie unflinchingly sang, totally unfazed by the bite in his voice, following by a giggle.

As if losing its patience, the Gumshoos hissed and took a decisive step forward, snapping its teeth mere centimeters away from the Furfrou's nose. The pokémon yelped and its claws clattered against the stone as it dove behind Dulse and Zossie cowardly, shivering.

"Aw, it's okay!" Zossie comforted the pokémon right away, bending to her knees to pet its head. "You can fight when you want to!"

"No, it can't!" Dulse exasperatedly growled. "We need it to fight now, Zossie. Can you get it up?"

Elio narrowed his eyes at them both. They wanted Lillie, but what for? Lillie always seemed so on edge, and he had been told that some bad people wanted to get ahold of her and her odd little pokémon, Nebby… Well, these people certainly seemed unlike anyone else he'd met on Alola so far, and he didn't recognize those outfits from anywhere else, either. Thinking fast, knowing he couldn't hope to potentially fight the furious Gumshoos alongside Selene and Hau after if he tired Macho out dealing with Dulse and Zossie and their Furfrou, Elio took a deep breath and pulled his Rotom Dex from his pocket. Unlike Selene's, his didn't immediately wriggle out of his grasp and start chattering away. Given their circumstances, he couldn't blame it, and he was glad, too; his plan to disorient and send the duo packing relied on his Rotom Dex's subservience.

"Hey, fellas!" Elio drawled as he theatrically threw his hands wide. "You two don't look like you're from around here! Lillie's not here right now, but I'll be sure to leave her a message! Who should I leave the name in? Tweedle-Dee, or Tweedle-Dumb? Anyway," he flamboyantly grinned and slid closer to them, daring to wrap an arm around Dulse's shoulders. Flicking through the options on the Rotom Dex's screen until he located the camera, he snapped a picture of him and the odd man in the same photograph. He wanted some form of evidence to show… er… somebody, if these people were dangerous to Lillie in some way. He actually didn't know what he intended to do with the picture, but it was an almost instinctive reaction, to photographically document something so out of place. Still, his voice maintained that jeering tone and he joked, "Look at that, now you have a souvenir! Give me an email to send it to, why don't ya? But you'll need to do it outside." Elio jabbed a thumb in the Gumshoos' direction. As if to emphasize Elio's point, it snarled obnoxiously loudly. "See, Big, Yellow, and Fluffy doesn't like visitors that aren't challengers, and you guys aren't that, and that's not cool, so…"

Dulse abruptly slapped Elio away, clearly fed up with his odd behavior, and huffed disdainfully. "I do not understand anything you are talking about. We are not here for the trial, or the Gumshoos, or you, or photographs. We are looking for Lillie Rae Aether and her Cosmog. We must return it to containment to prevent disasters from befalling your world and ours."

"Though, we're kinda bad at battles," Zossie chimed in almost ashamedly from behind her partner, still stroking the Furfrou's head. Her voice had much more inflection and personality to it than Dulse's. "See, we don't do that where we come from! So… we kinda don't know how they work, heh!"

"Man, you're fun at parties, huh?" Elio mused to Dulse's face, then gawked at Zossie when she spoke. What the hell are either of them talking about? Where on Earth do people not battle pokémon…? Shit, can I move there? "Where the hell are you two from, anyway? Did Holon lose a couple spies?" he taunted. Actually, that would be kind of awesome if they turned out to be Holoni spies…

"Elio, wait!"

Casting a quick look over his shoulder, Elio saw Selene jog to a stop, her Rowlet hovering around her head. He noticed then that Hau was watching from a distance in the shadows of cavern, his brown eyes as wide as saucers, and shoulders hunched. He seemed to be trying to keep as still and quiet as possible. He supposed it had worked, since Elio hadn't noticed him before then. Waving a hand at his sister dismissively, Elio said, "Stay back, I got this. Just showin' our two new friends here some hospitality!" I don't know who or what they are. For real, Selene, stay outta this, he thought with a fleeting flash of sobering severity.

"Is that Furfrou not going to fight?" Dulse questioned Zossie, his voice dropping an octave.

She shuffled uncertainly as she stood back up. "No, I don't think so…"

"Well—"

Dulse was abruptly cut off by the Gumshoos lunging at him, snapping its teeth around his helmet. Its teeth slid off the sleek metal with a show of sparks, but it still knocked him off balance, tilted his helmet at a strange angle, and panicked his Furfrou. The pokémon whimpered and then tore out of the cavern. Seemingly without a second thought, Zossie yelped something incoherent and darted after it, and Elio jolted when he thought he saw her vanish before she finished fleeing the cave. Under Selene, Elio, and Hau's gawking, Dulse huffily brushed his suit off. "Fine, we will leave for now, for we must secure that pokémon and Zossie," he said, "but understand this. Cosmog has more abilities than you or most others in Alola understand. Until we convince you to let us return it to containment, you must understand that it cannot be allowed to fall into the wrong hands. Aether Foundation was providing a secure environment to house the Beast. By keeping it away, you are endangering this world and the next. Am I clear?"

"What on Earth are you talking about?" Elio asked breathlessly, feeling as if everything Dulse was saying went in one ear and out the other. Before Dulse had a chance to reiterate what he had said (and somehow, Elio felt as if the second round of exposition wouldn't have been any clearer), the Gumshoos snapped its teeth at him again. This time, Dulse managed to dodge the bite, and he stiffly ran after where Zossie had gone then, out of sight before long.

"I'm going out after them to check on Lillie," Elio said immediately, only to have the Gumshoos whirl around and hiss at him. He vaguely heard Hau and Selene snap at him to get back, but he felt frozen as he realized just how close to that beastly Totem Gumshoos he was. Its jagged fangs that had scraped and dug into Dulse's helmet were uncomfortably close, and even more alarmingly, his mind had blanked. His legs felt like lead and he couldn't… move… Suddenly, Macho courageously leapt from the ground at the Gumshoos' face, lashing claws furiously over its nose again and again as it hissed. Selene's Rowlet then dove at its head in a cloak of vines and leaves, while Hau's Popplio blew a bubble that, once it popped next to the Gumshoos, let out a blast of noise that made the Gumshoos backpedal away from the assault. Once it regained its composure, it snapped its fangs over Selene's Rowlet, temporarily stunning the little pokémon as it struggled out of its grasp and back into the air.

"This battle's not over," Selene puffed at her brother as she fell into step next to him. With a curt, reassuring nod, she called, "Rowlet, you've got this! C'mon!"

"We battle Gumshoos," Hau determinedly added as he flanked Elio on the other side, "then find Lillie. Ae!"

"But…" Elio let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding.

"Elio, it'll be okay," Selene reassured him with a gentle smile. "I'm sure Lillie's fine… C'mon, let's beat this thing!"

Taking a shaky breath and trying to steel his nerves, Elio found that he could move his feet again. "Alright," he breathed, tucking his Rotom Dex back into a pocket. Ahead of the three of them, their starters readied for their next strike, Macho arching its back, Selene's Rowlet hovering in the air in front of her (though it was faltering slightly in exhaustion), Hau's Popplio clapping its flippers together, all the while, the Totem Gumshoos panted tiredly. Noticing that gave Elio the burst of confidence he felt he needed and for once… he found himself not really thinking about the nastiness of battle. The adrenaline and emotions coursing through him in that moment seemed to banish whatever misgivings he had about the process all at once, and he ordered Macho to perform another Ember. Somehow, with Selene and Hau at his side and their pokémon aligned in front of him, he felt more… alive.

With that, another Disarming Voice from Popper, and Leafage from Selene's Rowlet, the Gumshoos' ethereal glow shuddered and then faded altogether as it collapsed to its stomach. There was a long stretch of silence where the three of them panted breathlessly as their pokémon retreated to their sides before it seemed to set in that they had beaten the Totem Gumshoos. Once Elio reached the conclusion that they had, though, he uncharacteristically hollered in excitement and lunged forward, snatching his Litten in his arms and giving something of a twirl. "Macho, man, we did it! Haha!"

"Congratulations!" Captain Ilima's voice carried from somewhere else in the cave, making the three of them quizzically look up and around, until Elio spotted him step out from behind his fallen Gumshoos. He recalled the pokémon to an Ultra Ball, tucking it away, and then calmly strode over to them with something wedged beneath his left arm. When he drew nearer, Elio realized 'it' was actually several silvery crystals, similar to the ones Kahuna Hala had hewn into the odd bracelet he and Selene now wore. He cocked his head at the crystals as Captain Ilima distributed them amongst the three of them.

"Normally," Ilima sighed, "you'd have picked these up from the altar itself deeper in the cavern, but… I see Gumshoos had to come help you deal with some intruders to the Verdant Cavern… I'll admit, I didn't get to see them before they left, but there is still someone in this cavern that shouldn't be." With that, he briskly marched past Elio, Selene, and Hau, over to a fallen log that acted as a natural bridge between two raised plateaus of stone. Ducking below it deftly, he briefly vanished from sight, before recoiling so fast he nearly hit his head on the log. "Lillie!" he puffed, brushing himself off as he stood to his full height. He exasperatedly put a palm to his forehead. "Come out of there, now, please… It's just me, Captain Ilima."

"Lillie?" Elio echoed, unceremoniously setting Macho to the ground and scrambling to Ilima's side, so relieved to find she was inside and not out there with the two strange people. "You're in there?"

"Are they gone?"

"Yeah, of course," Elio snorted. "Ran with their tail tucked between their legs!" Thinking himself clever, he smirked. "Oh, and the Furfrou ran off too, I guess."

Slowly, Lillie crept out from beneath the fallen log, her eyes pressed to thin slits as she glared at Captain Ilima. Before either she or the Captain could say anything, though, Elio excitedly bounced from foot to foot and beamed. He was far more eager to see her than he wanted to admit (not that he was doing a good job of hiding his exuberant reaction). "Lillie! You're alright! Uh, but…" He frowned and cocked his head. "Who were those people? What were they rambling about with Nebby…?"

"They're bad people who want to help do bad things to Nebby," Lillie answered standoffishly, still scowling at Captain Ilima. Preemptively, she bared her teeth at him and snapped, "Before you say anything, I had to go in here because I had no choice. They blocked my escape out of the entrance, so I came in here. I wasn't about to get caught to avoid making your pokémon mad."

"I never said anything about your reasoning for entering not being strong enough," Ilima asserted pointedly. "It's alright, Lillie. There's no need for you to be so combative. I'm… not going to tell anyone." He shuffled his feet and briefly looked at the ground as he said that. "You other three, let me show you how to use the Normal-type Z-moves—"

"Those two people are after her, and like, want to steal her pokémon by the sounds of it," Elio cut him off crossly, "aren't we gonna do something about that? Like, report them, or…?" You guys have got to take pokémon thievery seriously, at least! That's the least you guys could do! Now that he knew Lillie was out of harm's way, his mind had come to the natural conclusion that he never wanted anything like that to happen again. Lillie did not deserve to live in fear.

Captain Ilima blinked at him. "Report them to… who? I was going to warn Kahuna Hala about them after I learned more from you three about them, but… Do you mean anything else?" Without waiting for Elio to incredulously inform him of what he meant, Ilima's eyes suddenly widened. "Oh! You mean to police, or some other institution like that… I remember that from when I was in Kalos…" He frowned and scuffed a shoe against the stony floor. "I can inform them, but I'm not sure what they would do… Especially since nothing actually happened… Admittedly, the most they would do should they find the people would be to suggest they don't do that…"

It was Selene's turn to chime in. She shook her head in disbelief. "What do you mean? You guys have police, right?"

"From my understanding, we did before…" Captain Ilima sounded so uncomfortable. "I mean, a very long time ago… But over time, the Tapus felt as if they were undermining their authority, and that if they thought people were doing anything wrong, they would intervene… At least, that is how the Kahunas of the time interpreted it. Police exist, but they're not as you know them in other regions, I don't think. We have general guidelines to allow people to live peacefully, and most do follow them," Ilima stressed, "but… nothing nearly as stringent as I have heard Kanto can be. My apologies, I know that is likely quite jarring…" Clearing his throat as if what he had said was big deal, he continued, "Anyway, we should leave the Cavern. I can walk with you three to the Center and help you get checked in for the evening, I know it's getting a little late. There's a café in there if you are hungry, and tomorrow—"

"No, no, stop," Elio waved his hands in front of Ilima to pause him. Swallowing hard, he quavered, "So, you're telling me that police just kind of don't exist here? The Tapus are seen as the law? So, if they had attacked Lillie, or—" Elio's heart suddenly felt like it lurched into his throat. Mom and Dad. Mom and Dad haven't been answering their phones, Mom left that weird note in Galarish for some reason, the door… Meowth… The thin veil of lies he had told himself to reassure himself that his parents were fine felt like it had been torn away violently and his mouth was so, so dry…

"Welcome to Alola, Torchic," Lillie bitterly snorted at him as she brushed past the group, tightly clutching her bag to her side. "I'm with Ilima, though. Let's get out of here, and into the Center for the evening—"

"Mom and Dad are missing," Selene abruptly whispered. When Elio looked at her, she was as white as a sheet. "They left… a weird note… I thought they just…" Trailing off, she gave Elio a frightened, wide-eyed stare. Wordlessly, they both seemed to exchange the same questions: So, where are they really? Who wrote the note? After a moment, Selene stomped her foot and snapped at Ilima, "I just thought after the other day that your police weren't that great, not that you didn't have any real police! What on Earth?"

"Your parents are… missing?" Captain Ilima echoed, concernedly scanning Selene and then Elio with those washed-out eyes. He, too, paled. "What do you mean…?"

Lillie seemed to stop in her tracks at Selene's words. She turned on her heel, her face softer than before, her grip on her bag loose. In fact, her entire posture had slacked. Hau skirted the group until he was next to Lillie, looking equally as sympathetic as he exchanged a knowing look with her.

All their reactions did was serve to scare Elio even further. Shooting Ilima, Hau, and even Lillie distrusting looks, he snatched Selene by her wrist and hissed at her in Kantonian, "Come on, let's go. To the Center. I want us to be alone for a little while." Although she briefly resisted out of shock when he first grabbed her, she soon relented and hurried after him, Macho and her Rowlet following closely. Yet, before they had a chance to scramble out of the cave, Hau dove in front of them and waved his hands wildly at them.

"Wait, please!" he begged. Desperately, he tilted his head and sighed, "I know feeling… Lillie know, too. Let help. Let us help."

"Let you help how?" Elio spat savagely, feeling all his contempt for Hau boil to the surface again. He wasn't feeling so tolerant anymore. The tense understanding they had come to back at the Trainers' School was long gone. "How can you help?"

Hau glanced to Selene as if asking for help, but she only looked down and away from him. At first, he looked taken aback by her reaction, but then… he stiffened his jaw and glowered at Elio. "Alone does not help," he stubbornly growled, straining to stand on his tiptoes to get as close to in Elio's face as he could get. "Do not alone. No."

"Hau's right," Lillie mumbled as she quietly stepped into place next to him. She pressed a hand to Hau's shoulder and he visibly relaxed. With a sorrowful look up to Elio that looked so different from her usual contemptuous glare, she smiled sadly. "Your parents… seemed really nice when I was coming to get you guys… And the way you're clearly upset…" She took a shuddery breath and blinked. "Look, if anything's happened to them, or not and we're just all overreacting, I don't care. I want to help…" Begrudgingly, she muttered, "Also, I guess you did technically help me today… So, there's that, I guess… And Selene did the other day, too…"

"Alola have problem, ae. But never go alone," Hau asserted with uncharacteristic confidence. With a lopsided, easygoing smile that seemed more familiar, he bent down to pick Popper up off the ground. "We find out. Together. Ae!"

"Hau and Lillie have good points," Captain Ilima smoothly articulated as he also moved over to them. "Let me help get you four checked into the Pokémon Center. Whatever's going on with your parents, I want to help in whatever way I can…" He paused and bit his lower lip. "Even though I'm not sure if I'll be that much help after tomorrow… I still want to try."

Panicking by then, Elio swallowed against a mouth of what felt like cotton, unable to process whatever Ilima could have meant by that. He had no idea what to do. It suddenly felt so difficult to trust these people. There was so much about Alola that didn't make sense already, not to mention how it had just been spelled out for him that their parents were most likely not okay, in any capacity, and yet… Who else did they have? He had Selene, yes, but would he be enough to protect her? Lillie, Hau, and Ilima might have been intimidating in that moment, but they knew things about Alola neither he or Selene did… It became painfully clear to him, even though he couldn't quite think in words, just how much he relied on his parents and their family. The idea of suddenly not having either of their parents to help them was abjectly terrifying.

Before he could reach his conclusion, Selene answered for him. "Thank you… All of you…" She wormed her way out of Elio's vice-grip, and her shoulders sagged wearily. "Some… some help would be nice…" Her voice breaking a little, she admitted, "I don't understand this place, but all I know now is that my parents could be in trouble, and if you guys want to help… Please. I'm begging you to please help us, because we aren't going to know what we're doing here."

Elio looked down at the floor. At last, he gruffly whispered, "She's right…"

"We all together," Hau repeated himself firmly. "Follow Captain Ilima. To Center. Talk there more, ae?"

"Sounds good to me, Hau," Selene sniffled a little.

As they fanned out of Verdant Cavern, Elio felt a tidal wave of guilt wash over him, for not having the answers for what to do in this situation, for being so scared when he felt he should have known what to do. He felt like the biggest Magikarp out of water, ever, and he hated that not only he would have to rely on these people he was finding increasingly difficult to trust, but his sister would, too. He didn't mind risking himself in any capacity, but he wished he could have, at the very least, found a way to guarantee her safety… But if Mom and Dad had something happen to them in their very homes without anyone noticing, and if Alola didn't really even have police, how safe could either of them really be? Why had Lillie and Hau exhibited such a surprising change in personality upon learning they were worried their parents were missing?

He felt like he had traveled across space and time and landed in an entirely different world. Alola was a far, far cry from Kanto's heavily guarded streets and strict security measures, where the idea of little to no policing would have been laughed at like the funniest joke anyone had told in the last millennium. As he cagily glanced to the horizon and took in the beautiful, picturesque landscape, Elio curled his lip.

A picture could tell a thousand words, and he was starting to realize that Alola's picture had a true, sinister exposure beneath its delightful contrasts and vibrant colors.

[krizaland]

Defying Gravity Chapter 2

First Chapter

Hey guys! I finally managed to churn out the second chapter! This fic is dedicated to the anon who sent the request that started it all!  Enjoy!

Zim slid to the ground as sobs racked his body. This was it. His new mission was to serve and protect you and he had failed.

“Y/N...I’m so sorry....I have failed you.” Zim’s voice was cold as tears streamed down his cheeks.

“Need me to make some more nachos?” GIR asked sympathetically.

“Neyah?” Minimoose squeaked as they snuggled up to Zim.

Suddenly Zim’s PAK sparked again.  

“Zim, you’re not a failure! You’re literally one of the strongest people I know! I don’t care what your leaders think! You’ll always be my favorite Invader!”

Your words echoed in Zim’s mind, causing another surge of rebellion to rampage through his veins.

“No!”

Zim jumped to his feet and dried his tears.

“The tallest may have my human but that doesn’t mean I’ve failed! I refuse to return to my cheesy cocoon of misery!  I WILL SAVE Y/N IF IT’S THE LAST THING I DO!” Zim roared as he threw his hands into the air.

Meanwhile, you were beamed aboard The Massive.  

You rubbed your eyes and blinked as your body adjusted to The Massive’s climate.

When your vision cleared you let out a yelp! You were not only face to face with Zim’s leaders but they were way bigger than you expected them to be! They practically towered over you as they leaned down to get a better look at you.

Both Tallest’s PAKs sparked again.

You were even more attractive in person!  The way the bright lights of The Massive kissed your skin made it look like you were glowing!  Despite the fear on your face, your E/C eyes seemed to twinkle with stardust.

Needless to say, you were waay more attractive than any of the other humans Zim had shown them.

“They’re so pretty! Can we keep them?!” Purple squealed as he clasped his hands.

“We’re not going to keep them, I am going to keep them.” Red insisted as he gestured to himself.

“What?! Why do you get to keep the pretty human?!” Purple whined as he put his hands on his hips.

“Because I’m responsible enough to take care of them. You couldn’t even take care of a pet rock.” Red mused smugly.

“It’s not my fault Nebby ran away!” Purple pouted as he folded his arms.

You opened your mouth to speak but no words came out. Fear had tied your tongue in knots. All you could do was let out a whimper and hold back your tears.

Red turned his attention back to you. His face fell a bit when he noticed that you were on the verge of tears.

“Fear not, human! We mean you no harm! You have just been selected to participate in a very special program.” Red lied as he struggled to think of a way to calm you down.

“Man, you’re pretty!” Purple sighed as he tried to push past Red.

Red pushed Purple aside and promptly blocked your view of him.

“Anyway, you have been chosen because you are the perfect candidate for becoming the royal…um pet!”” Red chuckled nervously as he clasped his hands together.

“What?! A pet?!” You were flabbergasted by such a degrading title.

“Yes! It is the um…Highest honor in The Irken Empire ever.” Purple lied as he shoved past Red.

Your fear of the Tallest aside, the mere thought of being their pet made you want to vomit. You didn’t want to be anyone’s pet! You didn’t care if the Tallest were royalty or not! You weren’t some puppy or kitten! You were a strong independent individual! The nerve of these jerks!  

Zim would never treat you like an animal! Zim treated you with the love and respect you deserved! Oh how you wished he was here right now! A few tears begun to trickle down your face as you were painfully reminded of why you were here in the first place.

“I’m honored...” You sniffled as you wiped away your tears.

Before Purple could say another word, Red shoved past him again, this time it was hard enough to knock Purple flat on his rear.

Purple growled as he stood back up and tried to push Red. The two Tallest were about to throw hands when..

“My Taaallest! Perhaps you could let the human decide who they would rather serve?” One of the pilots piped up as the rest watched the show.

“Seize that guy and throw him out the airlock!” Purple commanded as he pointed to the pilot who spoke up.

The pilot screamed as two guards rushed in and threw him out the airlock.

“Wait! What if we let the human deicide who they’d rather spend time with-I mean serve?!” Red suggested as he pointed to the sky.

“Ok fine! But I know the human is going to choose me!” Purple pouted as he folded his arms.

Red growled at Purple before turning to face you.

“You’ll have to excuse him. Anyway, perhaps you should come with me so I can...um tell you more about your role!” Red urged as he gestured for you to follow him.

“Wait! Wait! Wait! You are not going anywhere looking like that!” Purple huffed as he gestured to your outfit.

“What’s wrong with my outfit?” You asked as you looked down at your outfit.

“It’s boring! You need something better! Servants! Bring me my designing tablet!” Purple demanded as he clapped his hands.

Within a few minutes a servant ran in with a large alien tablet.

“That’ll be all!” Purple sneered as he snatched the tablet out of the servant’s hands.

“Seriously?! Is this really necessary?!” Red snapped as he put his hands on his hips.

“No pet of mine is going to walk around looking boring!” Purple poured as he scribbled away on his tablet.

“There!” Purple put the tablet’s stylus into a small slot on top of the tablet.

He then proceeded to place the tablet into a nearby vacuum tube.

SHOOMP!

The tablet was sucked up the tube.

Suddenly a much larger tube dropped from the ceiling and landed right on top of you!

“Their clothes aren’t even that ba-” Red began before the sound of the tube whirring cut him off.

FSHHHH!

With a bright flash, the tube lifted to reveal you looking absolutely regal!

You were adorned in a gorgeous F/C floor length silk robe with golden accents, a golden crown encrusted with sparkling jewels, and the Royal Irken insignia painted on the center of your forehead.

Red’s PAK sparked as his jaw hit the floor. You looked stunning!

As much as he didn’t want to admit it, Purple did a wonderful job cleaning you up.

“You look perfect!” Purple squealed as his PAK sparked.

“Thank you very much!” You spluttered as you looked down at your fancy clothes.

You had to admit, for an evil alien warlord, Purple sure had a good fashion sense.

“See? I told you they’d pick me!” Purple giggled as he gave Red a smug grin.

“They didn’t pick you. They were just thanking you.” Red huffed as he made his way over to you.

You felt your stomach churn. You were so surprised by your fancy clothes that you had forgotten that the Tallest wanted to keep you as a pet!

“Now that you’re properly dressed, you can come with me to my private chambers for your debriefing.” Red insisted as he gestured for you to follow him.

You simply nodded and followed Red to his chambers.

Purple pouted and folded his arms. He knew he had to think of a way to win you over and fast!

Next

[peterparkrr]

The Santa Clauses

AO3 Link! Happy Holidays :)

Tony can glean a lot of information from the way Pepper walks into a room. Actually, he can tell a lot about anyone from the way they enter a room, he’s perceptive like that. But, he has years of studying Pepper under his belt, so she’s definitely his area of expertise.

The way that the door to the garage swings open—fast, yet controlled, she doesn’t let it slam into the wall, but it’s a near thing—means that Tony did something Not Good. Not 'slowly dying of palladium poisoning without telling anyone' bad and definitely not 'wielding all six infinity stones in a field full of super-humans' bad, but still, Not Good. Or it could be that someone close to Tony did something Not Good. Either way, it means that he has a mistake to fix.

“Tony,” she starts.

“Pepper,” he replies. “I want you to remember that the holidays are right around the corner, so in the spirit of forgiveness—”

“Oh, hush. You don’t even know what happened.”

That’s good. That means that it wasn’t Tony who made the fatal error.

Pepper leans against one of the tables, arms crossed. “You know I love Nebula and she is welcome here anytime.”

Tony feels his eyebrows raise automatically. Nebula is the offender. That’s a new one. She and Pepper get along just as well as he had speculated that they would. They have a shared love for the practical that Tony’s not sure that he will ever understand.

“What did Ms. Smurfette do?”

Pepper sighs. “She didn’t do anything on purpose.”

Tony peeks out the window of the garage. From what he can see, the house still seems to be intact.

“She was playing outside with Morgan.”

Tony swivels to look out the window on the other side of the garage. Morgan’s toys are scattered about the yard as usual, no sign of extra destruction. Also, no sign of Morgan. Tony’s heart races for a moment, but Pepper wouldn’t be this calm if something like that had happened.

“Morgan insisted on wearing one of her Christmas sweaters today—the one with the sleigh and the reindeer.”

Tony remembers. He’d thought it was a little early for that sort of thing. It’s only the sixth after all. But, they’re trying to foster Morgan’s self-expression.

“Nebula asked her about it. So she gave her an overview on Christmas.”

“Wasn’t Nebula here a few years ago at Christmas?”

“Yes, when Morgan was still a baby,” Pepper says. “Which is why Nebula knows that Santa and his reindeer are just characters.”

Tony’s starting to understand the problem. “And she told Morgan as much.”

“Yes, she did.”

It’s sad. Tony thought Morgan would have at least a few more magical Christmases, but she was always going to figure it out—sooner rather than later. She’s too smart.

“Well, this was bound to happen at some point.”

“Tony, she’s six.”

“My old man told me to quit believing when—I must have been four! Maybe younger.”

“Because that’s the example we’re trying to follow as parents,” Pepper mutters.

Tony laughs, but quickly sobers when he remembers the aftermath of that particular conversation with his dad. He’d been crushed. Even Jarvis couldn’t coax him out of his room the next day.

“Is she upset?”

“It didn’t seem like it. She just went back to playing.”

Tony breathes out a sigh of relief. “We’re in the clear then. No waterworks. That’s impressive.”

Pepper’s head snaps up. “We are not in the clear! Our daughter doesn’t believe in Santa! Christmas is in less than a month!”

“Honey, we can still have a wonderful Christ—”

“This is how it all starts.” Pepper’s head falls into her hands. “First, we lose Santa. Then, there will be no more family dinners because she’s out with friends. Then she’ll graduate and move out. It’s the beginning of the end.”

It seems that they’re spiraling on this previously calm December afternoon. Tony wants Morgan to stay as she is, all wide-eyed wonder for the world, just as much as Pepper does. He’s just not sure if the Santa-thing means the end of all of that. “Don’t you think—”

Pepper points a finger at him. “Fix this, Tony.”

“Me?”

“Yes, you!”

She’s gone before he can say anything else. It’s Tony’s turn to rest his head in his hands.

Tony raps his knuckles on Morgan’s door. “Maguna, anybody home?”

There’s a quick succession of footsteps from inside, then the rustling of sheets.

“No,” she calls, followed by barely stifled laughter.

“Oh, I see.” Tony pushes the door open and steps inside, surveying the child-shaped lump under the comforter. “Then I guess it’s the perfect time to finally take all of her toys to sell. I’ve been trying for years. Look at me now, FRI, it’s finally happening.”

“Stealing from a six-year-old, boss, very impressive.”

“FRIDAY, stop him,” Morgan whispers. “Override code alpha-romeo--”

It’s only the first two letters of one of his override codes, but it's enough to convince him that Morgan has the whole thing. It’s not the first time she’s gotten one, and it won’t be the last either. She’s going to be a nightmare to keep up with as a teenager, Tony can feel it.

“Woah, there.” Tony places two hands on the comforter and yanks it back with a bit of flourish. “When did you discover that one, little miss?”

She covers her face with her hands and shakes her head.

Tony decides to let it go. He’s here for a more urgent reason—a ‘Pepper will never forgive me if I don’t fix this’ reason.

He sits at the foot of the bed. Morgan clambers the rest of the way out from under the covers to sit next to him.

“Mom said that Nebula played with you today. That was nice of her.”

Morgan nods. “She let me take off part of her hand.”

“She—“ Tony trails off, shaking his head. He’s learned not to question what Morgan and earth’s mightiest heroes get up to. Morgan has all of them wrapped around her tiny finger.

“I put it back just right,” she adds.

“Good job.” Tony brushes her hair back so that it’s not flopping over her right eye. “Just be nice, okay? Nebula might not want to be treated like a project all the time.”

“Okay.”

“Did you and her do anything else today? Or—talk about anything else?”

Morgan’s face scrunches up in thought, before smoothing out again. “I told her about Christmas. She said Santa isn’t real.”

Tony knew that, but it still feels like a punch in the gut to hear the words out of Morgan’s mouth. He steels himself for the rest of the conversation.

“Do you believe that?” He keeps his tone as neutral as possible.

“Why would Nebbie lie?”

He hadn’t been prepared for that one. All he can do is hum in response.

“Did she lie?”

Tony purses his lips and looks to the side. He can’t outright lie to Morgan’s face. It’s too much of a betrayal. He should create some sort of telepathic link so he can tell FRIDAY to sound an alarm just from his thoughts. It would help him get out of so many sticky situations.

“It’s a little complicated, Mo.” Tony cringes even as he says it. It’s not his finest save.

She seems to accept it though, nodding sagely. “I’ll figure it out.”

Tony calls Peter.

“Is this a trick question, Mr. Stark? Because when May asks me that, I’m supposed to say yes, because otherwise she gets all sad and then I get sad, too, because—”

Sometimes talking to Peter is like listening to a hamster run around and around on its squeaky wheel. Then the hamster gets off, does a lap around the cage, and hops back on to run in the other direction. It’s exhausting, and grates on his nerves at times, but somehow it’s mostly just endearing.

“I just want your answer, the truth, please.”

There’s a long silence.

“No. I do not believe in Santa.” He whispers it, like it’s some shameful secret. “Unfortunately.”

“Perfect, I need your help.”

Peter doesn’t cry when Tony explains the situation, but it’s a near thing.

“I’m sorry,” he says, as he tries to collect himself. “I thought that we had some Christmas-themed villain to take down. Not this. She’s so young. How did this happen?”

Tony waves his hand in the air. “Long story, Nebula’s fault.”

“This is a disaster,” Peter mumbles. He seems almost as distraught as the time they thought Morgan had been kidnapped. Tony should lock him and Pepper in a room and let them commiserate until all the fretting is out of their systems. “What’s our plan?”

Peter is the plan. “I thought maybe you could talk about Santa like he’s, you know, real. She worships the ground you walk on.”

“Oh man.” Peter grimaces. “I don’t know. That’s a lot of pressure.”

Tony stares at him in disbelief. “Kid, you fought a titan—on an alien planet.”

“There’s so much more at stake here!”

Tony rolls his eyes and then places his hands on Peter’s shoulders. “You’ve got this. I trust you.”

Something in Peter’s face shifts and hardens. He nods once, sharp and final, before spinning toward the door and walking out of the room.

“Oh, you’re going for it, now, right now?”

Peter doesn’t stop, so Tony follows him into the family room where Morgan is criss-cross on the floor surrounded by magnets. She’s moving one around above them so that they spin to align with the poles.

“Hey, Morgan,” Peter says.

She drops the the magnet in her hand and leaps to her feet, sending a bunch of others scattering around the room. Tony tries to catalogue where they go so he can find them later. At least three slide under the couch. One is between the chair and the end table.

Morgan runs at Peter and he lifts her into the air with an ease that Tony can’t help but envy. He tosses her once, and ducks a little so that she falls longer than she thought she would. She squeals as he catches her again.

“I didn’t know you were coming over!” She beams at Peter. Her grin has gained a few gaps in the last month. Pepper has a point about time flying.

“Well, here I am!” Peter tosses Morgan onto the couch and plops down next to her. Tony wanders into the kitchen so that he can still hear without obviously spying.

“Are you excited for Christmas? Have you written your letter to Santa?”

Tony winces. Peter’s going straight in. Subtlety has never been one of his finer skills.

Morgan doesn’t answer right away and Tony has to resist the strong urge to go back and see what’s happening.

“Yeah,” she says slowly. “Have you?”

“Of course! I’m so excited to see what he’s going to bring me.”

“Oh.” Morgan sounds confused.

“I always hear reindeer’s footsteps on my roof on Christmas Eve! Have you ever heard them?”

“Um, I don’t know, maybe?"

It goes on like that for a while, Peter finding more and more creative ways to keep the conversation centered around Santa. Tony puts a stop to it when Peter claims that he saw Father Christmas himself at a beach one summer.

He makes some excuse about May calling and practically drags Peter out of the room.

“I think I really sold it,” Peter says. “Did you hear me?”

“Oh yeah, aces,” Tony deadpans. “Stick with the superhero gig, alright kid?”

After Peter leaves, Morgan follows Tony into the garage. His plan was to work on some of her presents, but he can’t do that with her watching, so he ends up opening old suit plans instead. He spins them around idly, hoping Morgan will get bored and leave.

“Peter believes in Santa, like a lot,” she finally says.

Tony stops and turns to her. Maybe the plan had worked after all.

“You should tell Nebbie not to tell him. I think it would make him really sad.”

Tony nearly smacks his head into the concrete wall. Pepper’s going to kill him.

Tony takes Morgan to lunch—a nice little diner where they won’t be bothered by any reporters.

They get almost matching cheeseburgers, Morgan’s sans pickles. Tony waits until she’s finished about half of hers before launching into his prepared speech.

“Remember when I told you that Santa was complicated?”

Morgan’s nose wrinkles and she places her burger down. “I’ve been trying to figure it out. It should just be a yes or no answer.”

“A lot of things that seem straight-forward aren’t,” Tony replies. “You’ll learn that as you grow up.”

She sits up straighter. “I’m almost seven.”

“That you are, which is why I’m going to explain it a little bit, sound good?”

She nods. Tony takes a deep breath. Belatedly, he realizes that he should have discussed the route he had decided to take with Pepper beforehand. There’s no going back now, with her eyes fixed on him, watching expectantly.

“I like to think of Santa as a metaphor.”

“Those are the ones without ‘like’ or ‘as’.”

Tony smiles. “Exactly. Santa represents being kind and giving.”

Morgan tears her napkin in half. Tony feels like he can see her thinking, trying to predict exactly where he’s going with this.

“We all get a chance to be a Santa, when we’re ready.”

Morgan abandons the strips of paper and meets Tony’s eyes. “How do you know when you’re ready?”

“Well,” Tony says. “As an experienced Santa, I can make that decision.”

Her chin juts out, a little. It’s the same face Pepper makes when she’s preparing to lay out her best argument. Tony feels his lips tug upward.

“You’re a little young, kiddo, but I think you might be ready.”

She wiggles a little in her chair, excitement radiating out of her. “What does a Santa have to do?”

“Well, there are a few rules.” Morgan leans forward. “The first is that you can’t talk to anyone who isn’t a Santa about it.”

“Is mom a Santa?”

“Of course she is.”

Morgan looks relieved. “Good, I can’t keep secrets from mom. She always knows.”

Pepper will love to hear that one. Tony can’t wait to tell her.

“As a first-year Santa, your job is to choose one person to give a gift to. You have to find out what they want without asking them and the most important part is that you can’t tell them it was you.”

“Easy,” Morgan says.

“Do you know who you’re going to pick?”

Morgan nods around a mouthful of burger.

Morgan chooses Peter, of course. She’s an overachiever, so her gift is two-part.

The first part, Tony helps her with. They code a slew of upgrades into a new holiday suit, from the more practical things — the heater needs to be warmer on his hands, sometimes they feel like ice after he patrols, dad — to the festive — would jingle bells give him away to the bad guys? When it’s finished, it’s green where the original was blue, and the spider symbol has a Santa hat. There are also some Christmas fairy lights sewn in for if he’s in a particularly jolly mood.

The second part, Morgan does all by herself. She types up a note, to Peter, from Santa. She doesn’t let Tony read it.

She delivers the suit before Christmas so that Peter can wear it during the holiday season. Tony drops her off at May’s apartment building and waits in the car so she can have a quick escape. She sprints out of the building, gesturing wildly for him to start the car.

When footage of Spidey in Rockefeller Center, with the Christmas lights shining bright, appears on the news, Morgan jumps up and down and plays it on loop.

“I think Peter likes it, mom, dad, look he’s wearing it by the big Christmas tree!”

She pumps a fist in the air as Peter swings in front of the camera once again. He throws up a peace sign and Morgan mirrors it, bouncing on her toes.

Pepper squeezes Tony’s arm. “You did good. Thank you.”

“I don’t know why you’re surprised.”

“Two words,” she says. “Giant bunny.”

“Oh, come on!”

On Christmas morning, Morgan tears through her presents with the same vigor that she brings to most things. The pattern she takes to go through them is systematic, yet the action of opening each is reckless, crumpled up balls of paper flying in all directions.

There are toys and books and gadgets. Most notable is the present that Pepper and Tony poured most of their time into — a robot that Pepper had sketched out and Tony had built. The pieces are disassembled, in a box. There’s a tool kit so that Morgan can put it together herself, and a paint set so that she can decorate it.

She runs over after she opens that one, wrapping her arms around both of them, as far as they will reach.

“You guys are the best Santas,” she whispers. She squeezes one final time and bounds back to the box, prying it open and dumping its contents on the floor.

Pepper leans her head on Tony’s shoulder and sniffles. Tony’s definitely not crying.

May and Peter are supposed to get to the cabin at 3:00. Tony knows that this means to expect them around 3:30. Morgan starts standing by the window at 2:45.

Tony, Pepper, and even FRIDAY try to coax her back to her toys, but she refuses to move.

“Peter will love the letter,” Tony tells her.

“You haven’t read it!”

“You wouldn’t let me, Mo.”

She sighs. “I should throw it away.”

“No, you worked hard on it. He’ll love it.”

The telltale crunch of tire on gravel nears the house. Morgan gasps and presses her face against the window. Then she runs around Tony to open the front door.

“Santa left a present under our tree for you, Peter,” Morgan blurts as soon as he steps inside.

“Really? Should I get it now?”

Morgan pales. “Um, if you want to.”

Peter heads for the tree and Morgan darts to Pepper’s side, latching onto her arm.

The letter is in a holiday-themed envelope, red with a snowflake border. Morgan had asked Pepper to write Peter’s name in cursive on the front. He picks it up and tears the adhesive, careful not to rip the envelope or the contents.

It takes him a few seconds to read it and then he blinks a couple of times and clears his throat. His eyes dart over to Morgan, then Tony, then finally up to the ceiling.

“Thanks Santa,” he says. “That means a lot.”

Morgan grins. She buries her face into Pepper’s side to hide it.

She goes back to working on her robot on the floor after that. May and Pepper sit on the couch by her, half-watching, half-chatting. Tony and Peter drift into the kitchen.

“What did it say?”

Peter clears his throat again and then passes the letter into Tony’s hands. “You can read it.”

Tony hesitates, but curiosity wins over and he opens the folded paper.

Dear Peter,

Congratulations on being on the nice list. It’s great to finally write to you. You’re one of my favorite children, and that’s saying a lot because I know all the children in the whole world. I heard that you’re a big fan of Santa. I’m honored that Spider-Man thinks so highly of me. Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me!

This year, I wanted to write you a letter because you’re one of the most deserving people in the world to hear from Santa Claus. A lot of people were sad when you were gone. People told stories about Spider-Man, but Morgan’s dad told stories about Peter Parker. He missed Peter a lot. He’s a little old to write letters to me, but I’m sure if he did, he would have asked for you back. Morgan thought the same thing, so she added you to her Christmas lists for her dad. That wish finally came true last year.

Morgan originally wanted you back just to make her dad happy, but she got the best big brother out of it too! Keep up the good work! Santa is very proud of you!

Merry Christmas,

Santa

P.S. I hope to see you again at the beach this summer.

Tony folds the paper back in half and slides it across the counter to Peter. He picks it up and places it back in the envelope.

“She did,” Tony says. “She always put 'Peter' on her lists — once she was old enough to write them. Cried like a baby the first time I saw it.

Peter’s finger is running over the outside of the envelope, tracing the lines where the paper meets. Tony feels like he should say more, but he doesn’t know what. Even if he did, anything longer than a few words would probably come out choked and end in tears. This Christmas isn’t for crying. All of the darkest days are over.

“Merry Christmas, Tony,” Peter says.

Tony leans a little to the side to bump Peter’s shoulder. “Merry Christmas, kid.”

[moonlightxarcher]

Selene’s Log, Day One

Update, 7:40 pm. 

“The flight from Sinnoh to Alola took over twelve hours. It was supposed to take eight. Given the shaking in my legs, the unconscious balling of my hands into fists, and the sheer degree of negative thoughts entering my mind, it appears that I may have been more frustrated by the delays than it appears. Further research may be needed to examine the extent of this effect.” Nonetheless, she continues.

“It was past sunset when I touched down in Alola, leaving the bureau on Melemele Island in the middle of the night. Normally at these hours, I would want to take a long bath, enjoy a warm mug of tea and read a good book. However, this flight has left me... now what was that word. Ah yes, restless. Relaxation is not what I need this moment. As such, I have found it wise to begin my studies.”

There is a muffled sound of items being shuffled through a bag and the tell-tale zing of the edge of a spiral notebook rubbing against something hard. “Professor Kukui has recorded data on these nocturnal Ratatta that call this region their home, and I should like to observe them for myself.”    

---

Update, 8:30 pm. 

“Though it may seem odd, I feel a need to apologize to this audio log for not adding to it earlier. It would seem that Alola is as active at night as the city dwellers in Unova. It was not an Alolan Ratatta that I discovered on Route 1, but a Yungoose. These tan and yellow furred mongoose Pokemon are diurnal, so one of them appearing active at night was surely indicative of something gravely wrong. The look in its beady eyes- it seemed frantic, scared. Something capable of scaring even a Yungoos would be trouble. And that something I learned rather soon after was a flock of Spearow. While nature’s course would normally have led to the consumption of this Loitering Pokemon, I fear I could not let it perish, not when I had interfered already in the chase.” 

“As luck would have it, my bow was within easy reach, Drawing its sleek wooden form from its case, I took aim at the lead Spearow, hoping to knock it out of the sky and scare off the others, but I need not have. A determined squawk cut the tension like an Air Slash. A small, screeching, ball of owl careened into the lead Spearow, kicking it in the beak.”

“Between that owl’s attack and the warning arrow I loosed, it sent the flock packing. Though the Yungoos appeared to be scared off as well.”

“Professor Kukui then found me, a bit embarrassed that the surprise had been ruined prematurely. See, he had been intending on giving this owl- Rowlet, to me as a gift for my help in the last paper we wrote together on Grass Type Moves.” A few taps and beeps are heard as an image flashes up on her recording device’s screen.

Name: Strix

Gender: Female

Nature: Bashful

Characteristic: Quick tempered

There is a muted sound of hooting in the background and a dull thud of something weighted landing on a shoulder. “I am sure Strix and I will work well together. She seems to line up well with my sense of justice, what with how she handled the Spearow.” The owl hoots in agreement.

“On Professor Kukui’s advice, we are heading up to Iki Town to talk to the Kahuna-” Her words are briefly interrupted by the dulled sound of an excitable male, happily calling out to the girl and her Rowlet. It would seem that he and the blue sea lion Pokemon walking with her know this owl. Their conversation is muted, but a few small remarks are caught, namely the mention of a battle and a rivalry between the Rowlet and Popplio.

“Leafage, Strix-” comes Selene’s voice clam and clear, just as the recording cuts out.  

---

Update, 9:00 pm.

“Once again, it seems I must apologize. I must admit I accidentally bumped my thumb against the end recording button. I will take measures to ensure that this does not happen again, moving forward.” She pauses a moment to clear her throat. “Having listened back, it appears the recording cut off during my battle with the boy and his Popplio. Hau is...” There is almost a sense of hesitation in the feminine voice, as if trying to find the word that best applies. “...excitable. Perhaps too excitable. But he seems to be a good-hearted kid.” Says the girl only two years his senior. “His attacks left many openings and were poorly planned, but he did pack a punch. The kid has potential, I will give him that.”

“Professor Kukui ran into us not long after our battle ran to its natural completion. Entering the town together, it became quite clear to the locals that the Kahuna was not here. In the meantime, Professor Kukui suggested I head along Mahalo Trail to the shrine of Tapu Koko, to introduce myself to the Island Guardian. It is a custom I am unfortunately not familiar with, but one that he had educated me on prior to my arrival. It seemed more than reasonable, and the walk has given me time to recount the previous-”

The audio recording stutters, the device clacks as it hits the ground. Two different feminine voices mutter apologies to each other, their words unintelligible at first until the device is picked up and handed back to Selene. Both girls suggest that it was her own fault for not paying attention to where she was walking. The distant, tinkling cry of something small, a Pokemon perhaps, is also audible. 

As is the increasingly loud screech of a flock of Spearow.  

“Nebby! Please, can you-” That second feminine voice is heard once more before it is interrupted by the rough squawking, which is in turn interrupted by the hoot of a Rowlet smashing into the side of the smaller bird. Sounds of battle ring out, the device shaking as it is roughly stowed away in a pocket. The clattering sounds of sandal-covered feet clacking against wood can be heard, as well as the telltale flutter of leaves released like darts from the wings of her partner. From amidst the clashing sounds, a whining cry cuts in, and the deep thrum of a shockwave rocks recording, staggering multiple times. 

A shattering snap, like that of splintering wood, and a sudden shriek of fear are all that can be heard... until the ethereal hum of another creature cuts in, sounds of sparking lightning quite nearly cutting off the recording then and there. 

“T-Tapu.. Koko?” Selene’s voice comes in clearer now, though it seems that the damage the device had suffered was making it sound more mechanized. She is left panting, out of breath at the sight of such a lovely creature. If only her device could record video, then she’d really be able to keep a perfect record of sheer beauty of this legend in the flesh.

The device fizzles out.

---

Update, 10:45 pm.

“...And there we go, all fixed up. The device should be picking up my speech clearly enough now.” Selene’s voice seems tired and slightly crackly, but she isn’t wrong; it was far better than the mechanized voice from earlier. “Our encounter on the bridge left the recording device damaged. With the spare parts I had on hand I was able to repair most of the damage, but it may not hold for long. Further investigation into another option to record my experiments or find more parts may be needed.” She clears her throat a moment, seemingly distracted by the onset of sleep.

“Right. An explanation. According to Professor Kukui and Kahuna Hala, it was in fact Tapu Koko that has saved me and that strange space cloud Pokémon Nebby. But before I could say a word to it, much less thank it for saving my life, the legend was gone. But it did leave a gift of sorts. Kahuna Hala refered to it as a Sparkling Stone, and with its smooth black and intricate colored markings, I can see how it would sparkle when held at the right angle in the right light. I have given the stone to the Kahuna, as he has stated that he can make something for me out of it.”

“But I digress. The other girl accidentally recorded on this device is Lillie, she works for the Professor as his assistant. I have spoken with her once or twice, but she had not known that I was coming to Alola in person. It was...” She stops a moment, seemingly thinking better of it, but continues anyway. “She thought it was ‘cute’ that I was making an audio diary. I tried to explain to her that it was to record my research, but she did not listen...” A short pause, the ruffling off hair can be heard. “But I suppose she is not wrong. Alola is a region rich with culture, mythology, and variant Pokemon. Perhaps recording even my daily life could reveal something interesting with further study.”

Now, where was she? Lillie’s words had thrown her off a bit. “Ah, yes. The Spearow that attacked were without a doubt the same ones as before, so I tried to explain to Lillie the fact they all very nearly got hurt was my fault, but... Lillie refuses to let me take the blame. She really is a kind soul. I am not sure I would have been able to say the same. When we returned, Lillie explained what had happened to Kahuna Hala, and that was when I showed him the stone. I am not sure what he could be doing with it, but the thought intrigued me enough.”

“It was rather late by then, so the Kahuna sent us all off. Professor Kukui had prepared a bed for me in the basement of his lab, so I walked with him and Lillie. I had asked why they had not already converted the basement into a larger room for Lillie, but it seemed like the girl actually enjoyed her little loft area. It personally seemed too small in the video footage I had seen, but if it worked for her, I cannot argue.”

“Back at the lab, the Professor was happy to present me with another gift. He would have given it to me earlier, but it had not been ready yet: A Rotom Pokedex. I had read about them in a recent tech magazine, but I have to say they are far more impressive in person. The Professor went all-out in this, I will give him that. He had modified the Pokedex to include a proper camera for taking pictures and video, and the Rotom placed inside it to act as the AI was very well trained. I was able to speak with it briefly before it had to enter a shutdown mode to properly update and install all the programs.” She pauses, the light sound of fingers tapping as she mentally trails off a bit.

“I wonder... Maybe once he is up, I will ask the Rotom if he would help me with my logs...” A longer pause, for a moment it seems like the recording has died, but then she picks it up again. “Fatigue appears to be setting in. I ought to sleep, there is a long day of science and research planned for tomorrow.”

End Day One.

[chemicalmagecraft]

The Gamer Hero, Deku Chapter 16

A/N: By the way, I got the app now, so I have gained the awesome power to write fanfiction ANYWHERE (as long as there's service). That might speed up my writing a bit, so yay for you guys I guess.

Though at the same time I have finals and stuff, so it might take a bit to update after this...

digimak2: Not exactly. First, there's the fact that technically, most of them have already been doing magic, in the form of their Quirks, without even realizing it. Second, there's the fact that we've only seen members of Yuuei doing magic. People often forget this because of Kaminari and Mineta, but Yuuei's supposed to be the best of the best. Normal people wouldn't show nearly as much talent at first.

xoxoxo

"So did you do it?" I asked Tsu and Uraraka when I saw them by the front gate.

"No, not yet," Tsu said. "We're still practicing with the spells, kero."

"Oh, and I think I found a new element!" Uraraka added. "I remembered how you said you had more fire and water affinity because of your parents' Quirks, and I asked my dad about the specifics of his Quirk. Turns out his fingerpads actually latch onto things using some kind of magnetic thing, which means I can use some kind of weird magnet element!"

"So what, like electricity?" Kacchan asked.

"Not exactly," Uraraka said, then pulled out a small metal ball. "Watch." The ball started floating.

"No offense, but that isn't exactly a new trick for you," I said.

She grinned. "Yeah, but what about this?" The ball glowed lightly around the middle, then split cleanly in half. "I did say it was a weird magnet element, remember?"

"Did you just break the bonds between its atoms down?" I asked. "Uraraka, please be careful with that."

"I know what happens when you split an atom, Deku. Oh, and also I got another elemental, so that's a thing."

"Cool," Kacchan said. "How 'bout we get to the classroom so you can summon them."

xoxoxo

"So you have how many elementals now?" Jirou asked me.

I summoned them, pulling out materials when needed. "Ten."

"Sup," Iggy said.

"Right. Hey, can I have the elemental spell? I was gonna ask you at the USJ, but..."

I nodded. "Oh, yeah, totally. Hang on." I pulled a leaf out of my inventory, giving it to Juniper. "Watch this." The leaf expanded and changed into a piece of wood, which paper then sprouted from. There was just something really cool about handing people scrolls with spells written on them. When Juniper was done, I handed Jirou the scroll.

"Little overkill, but thanks. I take it she's your plant elemental?"

"Bio, but yes," Juniper said.

"Can we show you our elementals now?" Tsu asked. I nodded. Tsu summoned a ball of water and Uraraka created some form of almost-visible ripple in the air that I could feel with Fuckery Detection. It definitely wasn't gravity, though. The water and ripple both expanded and turned blue, becoming humanoid. Tsu's water formed into a small boy with dark blue hair and clothes, though with a lighter blue ruffle on his collar.

"Hi, everyone!" he said with a bright smile. "I'm Bubbles!"

"Bubbles?" Kirishima asked.

"Yeah!" Bubbles created a white bubble wand with a pink loop for the bubbles. He waved it, forming some oddly thick bubbles that looked like they were made purely out of water. "Bubbles!" The water bubbles floated like normal bubbles, though.

Meanwhile, Uraraka's ripple formed into an androgynous child that also had blue hair and clothes, though theirs looked... metallic, I guess? Their eyes had black sclera and red irises. "Greetings," they said. "My name is Ion."

"Didn't you already have an elemental, Uraraka?" Yaoyorozu asked.

"Yeah. Nebby's a gravity elemental, but Ion here's..." She paused, then looked at Ion. "Actually, what element are you, exactly? I know you're some kinda magnetic element, but..."

"My element has had many names in the past because of its seemingly erratic nature," Ion said, closing their eyes. "Alchemy, matter, reality, chaos, cataclysm, destruction, attraction. These names are a result of people at the time not knowing what exactly it affects and not thinking to ask. However, it does have a true, proper name: particle. Think of it like a culmination of the three fundamental forces of nature that are not gravity, as it allows for the manipulation of the electromagnetic and nuclear forces." They opened their eyes. "Is that a sufficient explanation?"

Uraraka looked a little worried. "Those... Were words. That you said. So like, Full Metal Alchemist plus magnet powers?"

Ion blinked. "I do not know what this Full Metal Alchemist is, but I assume so. In fact, a rather simple application of it is the spell Compass, which allows one to feel magnetic fields, including Earth's."

"Actually," Yaoyorozu said, "I think I might also be able to use this... particle element."

Ion nodded. "My senses indicate you to be right. Perhaps you might be willing to demonstrate?"

"Of course." Yaoyorozu made a small cube of what my Observe told me was wood with her Quirk, then used magic on it, reshaping it into a sphere.

"You are correct. That was an application of particle magic, Quirk and spell both."

Yaoyorozu nodded and pocketed the ball. "Thank you. Jirou, could I please borrow that scroll Midoriya gave you when you're done with it?"

"Sure," Jirou said.

"I can make another if you need," I said.

"No, that's fine."

"Classmates!" Iida shouted as he burst through the door. "Class will start soon! Take your seats!"

I looked around. Aside from the elementals, who didn't have seats, the only person who wasn't sitting was Iida. "Umm... I guess we should probably unsummon the elementals too?" I said.

He sighed. "Yes, Midoriya, I see my mistake." He walked to his desk as our elementals said goodbye.

"Hey, so who's going to be teaching today?" Ashido asked as she leaned back in her chair. "Aizawa-sensei's probably still out, so..."

The door opened. I facepalmed when I saw Aizawa walking through the door. "Alright, class. I'm glad to see you're in your seats already." He had bandages wrapped around his eye and one of his arms was in a sling. I noticed that, with the level ups I'd gained from USJ, I could see his title and level now.

Eraser Head

LV 79

Aizawa Shōta

"Aizawa-sensei, are you sure you're good to be teaching," I asked.

He stared at me, raised his hand, and did he just cast Regeneration? "I'm fine, Midoriya. And Recovery Girl insisted on teaching me healing spells just in case. Now, the first item on the agenda. The school's counselor, Hound Dog, would like me to remind you all that there is no shame in visiting his office after a traumatic event, and that it doesn't make you any less of a hero. In fact, I'm going to see a therapist soon, though that's more because of my tendency to isolate myself leading to the degradation of my relationship with my family than anything else... Next, I'm sure you've noticed by now that one of your classmates isn't here."

A wave of confusion rolled over the class. We were? I couldn't think of anyone who was gone, and it seemed that neither could the rest of the class. "Wh-For the love of..." Aizawa sighed. "Mineta. It's Mineta. After the USJ incident, he decided to transfer to the general education course." I winced. That might've partially been my fault... "On to better news, then... The last thing I have to say for today is that we will be having the Yuuei sports festival in a few weeks."

"Yeah, the sports festival!" Kaminari shouted.

"Is it really a good idea to still have the festival after what happened?" Jirou asked.

"C'mon, Jirou, don't ruin this..."

Aizawa nodded. "It's a fair concern, but Nedzu seems to think that this'll show the public that we've dealt with the problem. And we're going to up our security, so we are dealing with the problem. I feel I should remind you all, this is probably your best opportunity to get scouted, so put your best foot forward. And finally, Bakugou."

Kacchan perked up at the sound of his name. "Yeah, teach?"

"Because you had the best score in the entrance exam, you're giving the speech at the beginning. If you need any tips, ask the principal or All Might. Class dismissed."

A buzz of excitement filled the room. The sports festival! Yuuei's sports festival was seen around the nation, and even in other countries. "Everyone's fired up, huh?" I said.

"Of course we are!" Kacchan shouted. "It's the fucking sports festival!"

"Of course!" Iida agreed. He was excitedly fidgeting in a way that made it look like he was dancing. Or he was doing some kind of happy dance. "Our goal is to become heroes! This is our chance to prove ourselves to the hero agencies of Japan!"

"I'm fired up!" Uraraka shouted. She had the most intense face I'd ever seen on her. A visible glow of pink surrounded her, and I could feel the gravity fluctuations from a few meters away. "I'm gonna win this thing!" She punched the air above her, and a wave of altered gravity rattled ceiling.

"Not if I beat you!" Kacchan shouted.

"You're pretty excited, huh, Ochako-chan?" Tsu commented.

"Yeah, that excitement's pretty manly!" Kirishima cheered.

"Uraraka, I understand your excitement, but please curb your magic before you destroy something!" Iida shouted.

It was then that she noticed the gravity she was putting out. "Oh. Sorry."

xoxoxo

"So..." I said later, when we were in the hallway. "Why are you so determined to win, Uraraka?"

She stopped. "Um... Well..." She hesitated.

"Are you okay, Ochako-chan?" Tsu asked.

She nervously touched the tips of her fingers together. "Well... it sounds kinda bad..."

"I'm sure it's not that stupid," Kacchan said. "Fuck, the grape said he was only in it for the ladies. Can't be much worse than that."

She blushed. "Well, see, the thing is that I'm kinda... in it for the money..."

"Yeah, I can see that," Tsu said.

Her blush deepened. "D-don't get me wrong! I also wanna help people, but..."

"Your family," I guessed. "You said that money's tight, so you want to help them out, don't you?"

"Yeah," she said. "Cousin Shōta sends us some money, but we only accept so much because he'd probably not leave anything for himself if we didn't. I want to be able to support my parents and make sure Shōta doesn't have to worry about us at all, so I need to sign with a good agency."

Iida started clapping. "How inspiring! A truly selfless goal! I am sure you will do magnificently!"

She smiled. "Thanks, Iida."

"If you wanna learn some hand-to-hand, I'll help," Kacchan offered.

"So will I, kero," Tsu added.

"Yeah, I'm sure I can help you with your magic," I said.

She smiled. "Thank you all."

xoxoxo

I opened the door to the teachers' lounge. I thought back to earlier, when I was about to leave the classroom.

I felt a hand on my shoulder. "Midoriya," Aizawa-sensei said. "I'd like to speak to you, when you have the time."

"Is something wrong?" I asked.

"No, everything's fine. I'd just... like to get your opinion on something."

So I excused myself during the lunch break to see what he wanted. I saw that he was on the phone, so I decided to politely wait for him to finish. "It wouldn't have been a bother at all, Obasan," he growled to whoever was on the other side of the phone, presumably his aunt.

Sonia offered to give me the other half of the conversation, but I declined.

"In fact, I would've loved to have her over." He made a frustrated noise, then took a deep breath. "Yes, I haven't visited in a while. I apologize for that. But I would have preferred she been with me than having noone in an unfamiliar environment." He scoffed at something his aunt said. "Okay, she's with a friend now, but what about before then?" He sighed. "Well, just so you know in the future, it wouldn't have been a bother at all. You're family. Goodbye." He hesitated for a bit. "Love you too," he sheepishly added, then hanged up. He sighed. "Why is my entire family so damn selfless..."

"Um..." Aizawa turned to face me. "I think maybe you are too," I said. "You should probably be in the infirmary still."

He pointedly cast Regeneration again. "I'm fine. Now, I'm sure you want to know why I wanted to talk to you?"

"Was it related to magic?" I asked.

"Yes. I've managed to figure out some simple strengthening magic, and now I suppose I know some healing spells." He frowned. "Saying this out loud feels like I'm playing some kind of RPG, but I guess that's life now."

I laughed. "Tell me about it, my Quirk is literally video game logic." I thought for a bit. "Aside from elemental magic, I do have a few spells I could give you." I took out another leaf and turned it into a scroll.

"Showoff," he said as he placed it on his desk.

I shrugged. "Juniper, my new bio elemental, can make scrolls really fast."

"I guess that makes sense."

"This scroll has some non-elemental spells you might find useful. Next, do you mind if I use Observe on you?"

"Didn't you say you couldn't use that on me?"

"I can now because I leveled up enough."

He nodded. "Well then do it."

"Observe," I said. Oddly enough, he had ten fire affinity. "Did your father have a fire Quirk?" I asked.

"That's literally the only thing I knew about the bastard, why?"

I blinked. I was not expecting that. It was also kind of a coincidence, considering my father... "Well, you... have some fire affinity..."

"I see."

I made another scroll. "These are some fire spells. Speaking of your parents, what's your mother's Quirk? That might open up another elemental affinity for you."

"My mother's Quirk was Graviteyes. It let her erase gravity from an object by looking at it. I don't know where the Quirk-erasing part of my Quirk comes from, but I at least know that my mother's Quirk was the reason my hair floats when I use mine." His mom's Quirk reminded me of Uraraka's, actually...

"Are you related to Uraraka?" I asked.

He blinked. "How did you know?"

"Yesterday she said something about a cousin Shōta who lives around here. You just said your mother had a gravity-nullifying Quirk, like hers, and I just heard you talking to your aunt about a situation that sounded a lot like Uraraka's." And then I pointed at what looked like a family portrait. "And in hindsight, that little girl in the picture looks a lot like a young Uraraka."

"Yeah." He sighed. "She doesn't recognize me, though... I'm kind of a bad cousin."

"Well, I can't tell you much about gravity magic that you probably wouldn't be able to guess on your own because I don't have it yet, but Uraraka could." I smiled." And at the same time, I'm sure she'd love combat lessons from her cousin, especially with the upcoming sports festival. She wants to do good so she can help support her family."

He grinned. Then he started laughing. "You're good, problem child. I'll talk to her."

I nodded. "Then for the moment, let's start you off on fire. Make a ball of mana, then concentrate on merging it with fire."

He made the ball of mana and closed his eyes. After a few moments of concentration, the mana ball became a fireball. "There. What next?"

His level jumped up by one just from using fire magic for the first time. I'd noticed first with my classmates; it seemed like levels worked differently for people who weren't me. "That's a basic fire spell right there. Just play around with that and other spells and you should be good." I made another scroll and put it on the growing pile of scrolls on his desk. "Aside from that, you might want to consider contracting elementals. They have trouble translating their magic to something we can learn sometimes, but they do help a lot."

He stared at his fire. "Thank you, Midoriya. Your help has been invaluable." His level wavered for a moment. "This fire... No, this magic, I feel like I should be able to..." The fire changed colors to indigo and black as it roared to new heights for a moment before he got a hold of it again. Aizawa's level started scrolling up and up until it reached eighty-six, where it turned back into question marks. The heat from the fire felt... deeper than normal fire.

"That's... not normal fire," I said.

"Obviously."

"No, but even in terms of magical fire, your level increased enough that I can't see it anymore. Sure, you were apparently only seven levels from it before, but... to level up seven times at least from simply gaining the ability to use some kind of magic and not mastering it..."

He closed his hand, snuffing out that arcane fire. "So are you saying I got stronger by simply using this blue fire?"

I shook my head. "Not exactly. You might have, but it's more likely that it's just symbolic of how bad of an idea it would be to fight you. Levels seem to work that way for other people. But still, to gain so many levels at your level... The one thing I know for sure is that if you learn how to properly use whatever magic you just did, you probably won't have to worry about becoming more powerful anymore."

He stared at his hand. "Is that so? Thank you, Midoriya."

"Now could you please talk to Recovery Girl when you're done with work for the day."

He snorted. "Fine, problem child."

xoxoxo

Class was over for the day, so Uraraka opened the door to leave. She stopped, though, because there was a crowd of students in front of the doorway. "Why are you all here?" she asked.

"Do you need us for something?" I asked.

"They're scouting the competition," Kacchan said as he walked up to them. "Checking out the class that fought a bunch of villains and won, right?"

"So this is class 1-A," a voice from the back said. A very tired-looking boy with purple hair wilder than mine stepped forward.

Drowse

LV 11

Shinso Hitoshi

He sneered. "You know, I wanted to be in the hero course, but my Quirk wasn't suited to the entrance exams. Did you know that if someone from gen ed does well enough in the sports festival, they can get transferred to the hero course? In other words, I've come here as a declaration of war. I'll be gunning for one of your spots in the sports festival."

"Oh hey," I said. "We actually had someone drop out after... well... you know, so you might get in if you try hard enough!"

He sighed. "Damn it, I was trying to be all cool..." He shrugged. "Well, I guess that's ruined. Just know that I'm hoping to become one of your class..."

"Good luck!" Uraraka said.

"Yeah, yeah..." He waved as he walked away.

"So! You guys're class 1-A, huh!?" someone else shouted.

Kicking Your Can All Over the Place

LV 26

Tetsutetsu Tetsutetsu

He had silver hair and... I think that was fur around his eyes? "You guys were the ones who were in that villain attack, weren't you!?"

Kacchan glared at him. "What of it?"

"I'm from class 1-B, and I'm here to check out the competition!"

"You are class 1-A!" a third person shouted, a blonde this time.

Copycat

LV 22

Monoma Neito

He sneered at us. "How arrogant. First you hoard all the magic to yourself, then you hoard all the media attention to yourself."

"Okay what the fuck was that last bit?" Kacchan asked.

He gave an arrogant pose. I'm pretty sure he copied that from a JoJo villain. "Of course, you jerks of class 1-A just so happened to gain the attention of the media within the first month of class. How arrogant."

An audible snap could be heard, followed by an oppressive, sweltering heat filling the room. An aura of fire surrounded Kacchan. "What. The fuck. Are you talking about?" He ground his teeth together. He looked like he was about to explode in more ways than one.

"You know what, fuck you all. I'd have told you all how to do some magic. It's only fucking fair. But if this is how you fucking react to a fucking class getting attacked by fucking villains, then fuck you. People almost fucking died, I don't think fucking anyone in the class would've actually asked for a fucking villain attack, and here you jackasses are throwing yourselves a fucking pity party over how you didn't get your five seconds of fame! Fuck off!" He vanished. With a low application of Space Invader, I was able to tell that the Illusion Barrier he made was filled with fire and he'd already left. Most of the crowd softened a bit after having been told off.

"Okay, you might have gone a bit too far there, Monoma..." Tetsutetsu said. Monoma harrumphed.

"If you guys wanted to learn magic, you could've asked," I said.

"Aren't you worried about your friend?" Monoma sneered.

"His temper can be a little explosive at times, as you just saw. It's best to give him a few minutes of alone time to cool down first. Now, just a quick show of hands, who wants to learn some basic magic." I counted the hands raised, then made a sheet of paper for each. "These are some basic nonelemental tricks and how to use affinity if you think you might have it. It might be a bad idea to disseminate some of the more advanced tricks to people without knowing how well they can be trusted with them, but at the very least this is more than enough to, if you're good enough, figure out something good." I placed the papers on a nearby desk. "Now I should probably go talk to him." I entered Kacchan's still-active Illusion Barrier.

xoxoxo

"Hey, Kacchan," I said quietly, and sat down next to him. I could guess from the ruined and smoldering building we were sitting in, but... "How are you feeling?"

He sighed. "I fucking exploded again. It keeps on happening." He played around with a tiny, candle-sized flame, changing its shape and color. It didn't do anything like Aizawa-sensei's fire, though. I guess it was special or something. I'd have to ask him about it later.

I shrugged. "Well you did get angry because someone called the class arrogant for getting attacked by villains, which is probably among the better reasons to get angry. And you did manage to blow up in here, where you can blow off steam without damaging anything in the real world. Probably a lot better than getting into a fight or something..."

He chuckled. "What the fuck did I do to deserve a friend like you?"

"Absolutely nothing."

This made him laugh even more. After a while, he said, "I'm probably going to take up Hound Dog's offer."

"Cool," I said. "I'm going to try to find that one Shinsou guy who walked off and see if he wants to learn magic. He might be fun to have in class."

xoxoxo

Uraraka walked into the teachers' lounge with Tsu. "Heeeey, little listeners!" Mic-sensei said when he noticed them. "What brings you here?"

"Aizawa-sensei asked to talk to me when class finished?" Uraraka said.

"Oh, is Shōta finally talking to her?" Midnight-sensei butted in.

"Wait, what?" Uraraka said.

"I knew it," Tsu said, looking at something. Uraraka followed her gaze to Aizawa-sensei's desk, where she saw a family portrait. The same family portrait that was hanging on her family's wall, one of the few photos they had with both her and her cousin... Shōta...

"Oh..." Uraraka said. Then it hit her. "WHAT!?" she shouted, then felt her face heat up a bit. She slapped her hands to her face. "How did I never notice that!? I even knew his Quirk!"

Tsu patted her on the back. "It's okay, Ochako-chan. Nobody wants to believe that their cousin is a scruffy, grumpy hobo..."

The door to the teachers' lounge closed, and Uraraka turned to see Aiza- cousin Shōta. "If I knew I was going to come back to my cousin's girlfriend calling me a scruffy, grumpy hobo, I'd have listened to more of Shuzenji-san's rant..."

Uraraka felt her face heating up, and Tsu quickly removed her arm from her back. "Ribbit," she whimpered, her face bright red.

"Ah, i-it's not like that," Uraraka said a little too quickly. "I-I mean, I wouldn't be opposed to... but she and I aren't..." She stopped when she heard Mic-sensei and Midnight-sensei laughing.

"That was a joke," Shōta grinned. Then his face fell. "Sorry for not visiting ever... I don't really have an excuse."

Uraraka shook her head. "No, it's okay. So uh, what did you need me for, or was that what you wanted to talk about?"

"No, I was actually going to talk about magic, though I was hoping to bring that up if I saw the opportunity. Did Midoriya tell you elemental affinity can be inherited?"

She nodded. "Yeah, I got something called particle affinity from Dad. I'm guessing you want tips on gravity?"

"Yeah. I'll help you with fighting, too. I have it on good authority that you want to make a splash in the sports festival."

Uraraka smiled. "Sounds great."

"If you don't mind, I'd also like some tips," Tsu said.

xoxoxo

A/N: Bubbles is a Popplio and Ion is a Beldum. Particle is weird, but generally any particle elemental would be a Pokémon that can either use a magnet-based move or is a psychic type that one could argue to fuck around with magnets or particles, same as gravity (though with gravity instead of magnet), though also maybe some electric and/or steel types if they're magnetic enough. I have a good idea of what Yaoyorozu's and Midoriya's (eventually) will be, but as always I'm open to suggestions.

[storylocke]

The Light - Ch 3

[As the group enters the quiet little place of Iki Town, Virginia can't help beaming at how quaint it is. People hanging out on their front porch, children running by with small Pokemon close at their heels, and even with the signs of activity, it was fairly quiet. There sure were a lot of people out for how late it appeared to be… Or maybe they had all just left the show?]

Lillie:

[Catches her gaze as her eyes sweep by in trying to follow the happy children with the dog. Smiles a bit to himself.] Y'know, that little Rockruff I have at my place used to be wild. It always makes me smile when I see her roughhousing with my little girl.

Virginia:

[She could see why. It looked like fun~!] Iki Town seems to host quite a nightlife- Oh, but you said something about day and night not working properly?

Lillie:

You should really see this place during the day~! Not that there's much to see here in town, but it's more lively than it is now. The main factors you'll need to know is the Kahuna's house and the town square.

[It really was a square from what Virginia could tell. A large platform stood in the middle of the clearing with stairs on each side and a huge ring painted in the middle of it.]

Lillie:

Hmm… Anabel should have been here though. Why don't we use this as the new meeting spot and split up to ask around?

Kukui:

Sounds like a plan. [Notices Virginia already wandering off like a girl on a mission.] And don't leave town without us!

Virginia:

[Turns back] Can do! [Watches as the professor leaves for the more crowded part of town downhill that they'd passed through before. There weren't many houses on this level, but she still wanted to take it all in. This far uphill, she could see her house looking so small all the way near the shore. There were large Pokemon moving nearby, maybe even just on the other side of the Kahuna's house as she watched the treetops shake in the night air. Looks down at the Fennekin still nestled in her arms.] Isn't this all exciting?!

Fennekin:

[Probably but right now it looks like all he wants to do is doze off in the warmth.] It's a great piece of antiquity. The style of houses, and the torches, I bet this place hasn't changed for a hundred years. [Looks up at her] You think they have a shop here?

Virginia:

Hmmm… the professor didn't mention one. [Glances back uphill the towards the path leading to the woods. As she peered into the tunnel of trees though, there appeared to be some stairs. Maybe there was more to the place than in sight] Come on! Lets see what we can see from the top! [Sets him down and starts to jog towards the hole in the trees leading out of town]

Hau:

[Amused] Well that didn't take long. [Turns to Kukui] Weren't you going to stay with her in case there was trouble?

Kukui:

[Just staring at the empty pathway she already disappeared down.] …. [Shakes head] I told ya I had a feeling where Anabel went. Even if I went, I'm pretty sure there's gonna be a lesson learned the hard way. So what did Quips tell you guys when you called him anyway?

=+=

[While the two had stopped at the edge of town, Virginia and Fennekin made their way up the winding path of stairs. Maybe she was wrong… maybe there was no more to the town this way. But surely it was safe to explore as clean and clear as the path was through the small canyon. And who knows! Maybe the missing girl had gone to see the view from the top as well. She could at least go until the edge of wherever, for surely there had to be a point where the road more clearly entered the wilderness.]

Virginia:

So what would a little fox like you do with an antique anyway? It's not like you can store them in your Poke Ball. … Can you?

Fennekin:

[Soft little laugh] Nah, they're too expensive anyway, so I just like looking. I've always been fascinated with learning about the ancient world, but I'm not too keen on the more modern stuff like you seem to be. That's how I learned my super awesome Light of Ruin technique I learned back in Kalos! Only… I don't know if I'm doing it right since sometimes I accidentally knock myself out…. [Looks up at his trainer and tilts his head slightly in curiosity. She's staring at something just ahead of them, but from their angle, it's actually above them.] Verge…?

Virginia:

[Stops in her tracks and slowly points at the top of the stairs. Softly] Light… [Looks down at him and it's obvious he sees it too as his little nose starts trying to sniff out what it can be] I'm sorry, but why don't we pick up our talk later? [She goes to recall him and moves the ball to her bag for now before turning to see if the light remained.]

[Virginia kept going, mesmerized by the gentleness the light. As she carefully crept up on it, she sees it's not so much of a direct light but a figure all in white and bathed in moonlight. A girl practically glowing before disappearing from sight through the small archway of trees. Virginia moved faster to catch up.

As she arrived at the top, the Mahalo Trail opened to a wider area, and the soft hush of the river from before grew to a roar about a mile out of sight. But that didn't matter to Virginia right now! She seems to have arrived just in time as the girl is suddenly staggering, struggling against having her bag pull her towards the cliff! The duffle bag abruptly pops open though, and a colorful blob of a creature bursts out; leaving the girl falling backwards and onto the ground from the sudden release. The little puffball starts to fly toward the bridge before its' handler can catch it.]

Girl:

Oof! [her wide brimmed hat tumbled off, but she's in much too big a hurry to worry about that as her ward is quickly floating away] Nebby! Wait!

Virginia:

[That thing was a Cosmog, no doubt about that between the stories she'd heard and the old pictures she'd seen. Grainy as they always were, seeing the shifting ball of stardust, for herself, she could see why. With the warning from the professor, and now this girl with her long blonde hair and white dress seeming reminiscent of him and his lab coat, it didn't hurt to take a guess.] Are you Miss Lillie?

Anabel:

[Brushes herself off as she gets to her feet] Huh? Yes, my name is Lillie. Anabel Lillie, that is. I work as the professor's assistant and… [Tense as she is, biting her lip, the girl turns around seems completely taken aback by this stranger. Her eyes lock with Virginia and the sensation of being caught has her shaking.] Ah… Ah… I'm working on an experiment right now! [Some experiment. She glumly glances back at the bridge in distress.] Just so you know, this will be my first time trying this out. I... I'm glad you came. I needed a test subject. Can you please help me? I need to reach Nebby!

Virginia:

[Honestly was too drawn in by the girl's beauty and hearts filling her vision as the Voices rise louder than before with talk of love and ringing bells. She's not even paying attention to anything the girl just said. Dreamily] I do~

[As the two are having this moment, out of nowhere a small flock of Spearow descended upon the Cosmog! The little puffball froze in the middle of the bridge, curled up and frightened as the birds circle above it and take turns pecking at it. The girls look back at the poor creature, somewhat mortified.]

Nebby:

[Distressed noises] Fwoom!

Virginia:

[Sorry, wait what? The Voices change to a cry of alarm. Save Nebby!] I mean, I will! Just, ah… hang on! [She awkwardly circles around Anabel to scoot passed, rather clumsily with her footing as she's almost tripping over herself on the bridge. This thing was a mess… With no idea what she's doing, all Virginia can think to do is throw herself over the defenseless Pokemon and tries in vain to thwart the birds back with her hand.] Shoo! Back you pests! Uh...wha-?

[As the Spearow keep screaming in some infernal tongue, a light starts building underneath her. Little streaks start seeping out of the little cloud, like starlight, when suddenly she feels the raw energy burst into her chest! Everything stung, the world now reeling, and she could feel herself falling into nothingness as the flash had blinded her for the moment. All she could think to do was cling to the colorful Cosmog still nestled against her chest when a horrendous screech could be heard from above!

A soft boom of thunder and all the Spearow cries suddenly ceased. The roar of the river was deafeningly close, but before she could even scream, something caught her. She opened her eyes to see a strange metallic face focused away from her as they flew back up the cliff face with such speed she was getting dizzy. The strange creature set her down on the ground, and stared at the three rather judgmentally. Virginia remained curled up where she'd been dropped and took a moment to get her bearings as she wasn't quite sure she was seeing things right yet. She couldn't even find the nerve to speak yet but gazed on the new mechanical creature in wonder.]

Anabel:

[Gives a soft bow to the creature apologetically.] I'm sorry, officer. [The creature gives a fierce roar as lightning crackles over its' body. The being seems to settle a moment, speaking to her in subtle clicks and strange movements as soft whirring gears are heard deep within.] … Yes... [pleasantly surprised] Of course!… [a little less sure] Ah… It is fine… [bows again, but in a deeper, almost servant-like way this time] No p-problem at all. I'll be sure to tell everyone so we may begin as soon as possible.

[With another loud roar, the yellow coated creature flies off with a flash as suddenly as it appeared. The night is still once more…]

Anabel:

[Heaves a sigh of relief] …. [Hurries over to the puffball and their rescuer and offers the stranger a hand up.] Are you okay?! I never expected anything like that to happen! Can you say anything? Does it hurt?

Nebby:

[Excited as it floats to her] Momma! We spun around ten times and almost ended up like a Pyukumuku being chucked back into the sea!

Anabel:

Hmmph! No thanks to you. You should at least apologize!

Nebby:

[It would, but it's already been distracted by something and wandering off.]

Anabel:

[Deeep sigh.] It really is sorry. I mean, we both are, but- [Takes Virginia's hand in both of hers, pulling her to her feet.] It's such an impulsive Pokemon. I really have no idea why it even wanted to come here tonight. Don't worry, though, Tapu Mageko won't hold any of this against you.

Virginia:

That was a Tapu!? [Everything happened so quickly, she was still unsure what just happened. Finally brushes herself off and looks back at the bridge in ruins. Did that really just happen? Now that she's had some time to sit and get her thoughts straight, she starts putting the pieces together.] Soooo… you somehow understood all that? What did it say?

Anabel:

Hmmmm…. I'm still learning how to talk to it, but you coming here tonight was no coincidence. It seemed to be expecting you.

Virginia:

Well…. yes? I figured you would expect me since your father and I have been talking for months now-

Anabel:

What?! Was that today?! [Hand to her cheek as she could just slap herself] Then you must be Verge!

Virginia:

[Brightens up] That would be me~!

Anabel:

I'm sorry, I completely forgot we were supposed to meet you today. If you've already met with him, then I'm running extremely late! We better get back to town or my father is going to kill me. Come on, Nebby!

Nebby:

[Brings over the item it went to investigate and gives a squeak to draw Anabel's attention to it.] I used a crystal like that when I was a young Trainer, but don't need it now. You use it and build a new age. I'll stay and take care of the old age.

Anabel:

Oh you! You're not staying out here. [takes it up and looks it over. Huh… A Sparkling Stone.] I already have one of these… [holds it out to Virginia.] I think this was left for you.

Virginia:

[Takes it, curious, and shifts it around slightly so she can see how brightly it shines even in the moonlight.] What is it?

Anabel:

Normally, it's given out to those who are to be the next Kahuna. I'm already in-training, but I think with some polish we can see what it really is since I've heard on more rare occasions it can be given as a sign from the Tapu that you have a great purpose ahead of you. Or maybe Tapu Megeko wants to impart some of its' power to help somehow in this crisis too. We should show this to Kahuna Hau and see if he knows the meaning of it for sure.

Virginia:

… [Knows it sounds dumb but just has to ask] The Kahuna's a Popplio?

Anabel:

Ah… no. It's a bit complicated. [The pair give one last glance around the clearing before starting down the steps to the Mahalo Trail.] I don't think Nebby would have attacked like that if I could have used the Araquanid I trained so well but…

Nebby:

No vacancies~!

Anabel:

There, too, was plenty of room! A ball hardly takes any space at all! [Into the bag! Watch it wriggle.] I hadn't realized I had left home so defenseless until it was too late. [Gives another little bow] Thank you again for joining us, Verge.

Virginia:

[Waves it off] If it makes you feel any better, I'm not sure I was thinking either. I had a Pokemon too, it's just, I only really became a Trainer today, so I suppose it completely slipped my mind I could fight back instead of throwing myself into the frey like that. Today has really been… exciting.

Anabel:

Believe me, "exciting" stuff will likely become an everyday occurrence around here. [shifts a bit nervously as she readjusts her bag and begins down the next flight of stairs.] See, we Kahuna are chosen by Pokemon, but a Champion is chosen by people.

Virginia:

[Slight blush as she starts laughing. That's nice to say but...] Champion? Me?

Anabel:

[Soft laugh] Maybe not yet. But this isn't like the League Champion you're thinking of, this is more in the traditional sense. A Champion is someone who is chosen to represent a group and fight on their behalf. Usually you want to pick the bravest or the strongest since obviously if there's to be a fight, you want to increase your chances of winning. But our battle ground here is… different. You may not be literally chosen by the people of Alola, but with time… I'm sure we will all look to you to save us. [Ahem] I'm still not sure what Tapu Koko sees in me yet, but, despite the rough introduction, it really does approve of you. It brings me joy to think a new age will be coming to Alola~!

Virginia:

[That sounds like a lot of pressure. Save them from What exactly? Ahem] What kind of new age? Nebby mentioned something about guarding the old one, right?

Anabel:

Hmmmm… I'm not quite sure, actually. Though I do know Tapu Mageko said I'll be leaving the island soon.

Virginia:

[Stops short with a subtle whine getting stifled in her throat. Great, now she really got the girl's attention. Coughs] Sorry, it's just… I was really looking forward to getting to hang out with you more and now…

Anabel:

[warm hum as she stares ahead a moment to think on it] I feel we have a real connection going after meeting you. [Smiles at her] But I'm certain Tapu Mageko said you're to come with me! You certainly proved your courage back there, and perhaps that's why our Guardian wants you to go and protect me during my trials as the next Kahuna. [Not so eager] And with Nebby, I'm sure I'll need all the help I can get…

Virginia:

Can't you just leave Nebby home with your dad? Hau said he wouldn't mind helping to protect the little guy.

Anabel:

No… as I said, around here we are often at the whims of Pokemon. Nebby chose me for a reason, but I think it's only now I'm starting to understand why… [deep breath] One part I'm not so sure of was Tapu Mageko said something about Nebby being a key to the light. ...I think… Which, as I'm sure you noticed, Nebby has a very powerful light it can emit when in distress. I've only ever seen it once before tonight, but I'm wondering if that light may somehow help us to combat the Shadows.

Virginia:

Shadows…? [It was a common enough word, but somehow between Anabel's tone and her own mind flashing back to a dread from so many years ago, she has to ask.] Like a Shadow Pokemon?

Anabel:

Oh! [Tenses up as she suddenly wonders if she's said too much.] H-have you seen one before? I haven't yet, but the way it's been spreading in the other islands, I don't know what to think. But… [Her voice hitches as she tries to shake off the growing fear] But we don't know yet if that's what Tapu Mageko meant.

Virginia:

But the trials will mean you have to go to the other islands at some point, right? [Even if they aren't sure yet that she was right about them traveling together. Fidgets a bit as she debates on how stupid, how awkward, how terrible an idea this is that's brewing up inside her but after walking down the next flight in awkward silence, she just has to do it.] Can I ask you something crazy? [The girl looks at her a bit worried but also curious. Takes her by the hand] Will you marry me?

Anabel:

...What?

Virginia:

Maybe it's the near-death experience back there talking, or the fact you sound like you might not survive out there, but I don't want to lose you. It would just be between us. [She's surprised to see Anabel is hesitating but doesn't seem opposed to the idea.] Just think of it, a secret engagement until this is all over. Something to look forward to. You feel it too, don't you?

Anabel:

[blushing deeply] I do, but… [starts grinning as she feels her heart gushing] But sure! Why not?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: Love knows no reason~ love knows no rhyme~ Love can blossom any old time~

I've tried working things around a few times now, and just have to admit I don't know how to write a love-at-first-sight. It's odd because since it was such a brief quip that caused the marriage lore to pop up, I really had hoped to do this scene right since it became a major piece to the Run... But I feel like it came off rushed and awkward. Oh well, I tried. XD

[zchaotic]

Decent story telling deciphering. Episode 1, Lillie.

I think I got the core of Lillie's character growth figured out. 

From both sets of games to the anime... it is about Lillie learning to make that first step into becoming a braver person.

For most of SM and USUM, Lillie was a timid person who could barely do anything by herself without having second thoughts. This stemmed from Lusamine being so much of a control freak to her and Gladion, making all the decisions for them and telling the two to just listen to the adults around them. (How extreme this was depends on the set... but it doesn’t matter much in the end when it is emotional abuse.)

Some time before the events of the game, Lillie saw what was being done to the Cosmog Nebby and found it so extreme, so wrong that the girl realized that her mother wasn’t sound in the mind.

So she took the Cosmog and ran, the girl wanting to help get Nebby back home and find the means necessary to do it.

That is when the Cosmog teleported Lillie out of Aether.

Out of that toxic environment and to the tropical region of Alola. Where two were cornered. Lillie found proper emotional support in Kukui and Burnet, individuals that allowed her to relax to the newfound freedom she obtained.

When you the player arrived, Lillie was slowly trying to break away from the lingering, over bearing shadow Lusamine had over her. That... is what her old look represented, the resemblance to Nihilego is just a coincidence since in USUM, Lusamine’s goals have nothing to do with that Ultra Beast despite everyone looking the same. The clothes themselves represent a past of a bound childhood.

Every time Lillie was trying to find a new look to suit her, was every time she tries to find the courage towards becoming independent. With you, Hau and everyone Lillie befriended inspiring her towards that.

To become a trainer, to become strong enough to fight her battles.

Then Team Skull came along to get the Cosmog while you were dealing with Guzma.

We the player raided Aether Paradise and through some dialogue from Gladion, figure out that Lusamine was a control freak to her kids... explaining why Gladion is trying to do things in his own way. Whether to stop Lusamine from endangering Alola and the family or to stop her from endangering herself. (USUM and Gladion’s motive to raise Null to its potential and prove that woman wrong.

When we confront Lusamine, we see why Lillie had so much self doubt. Lusamine talks down on Lillie for stealing her stuff and leaving, this woman really thinks that her kids should just shut up and let her take care of things (USUM) or think they are pests getting in her way to what ever she wants (SM).

Then you fight Lusamine for what ever reason. (In SM it was self defense since the crazy bitch was trying to kill you, in USUM... because the crazy bitch wanted to prove to her kids that she can manage Necrozma. “I’ll get to her in another time.”)

Nebby’s power got used in great lengths and it evolved into Cosmoem to survive.

Then the next day happened, after some thinking... Lillie changed her outfit to a more lively Z powered form. Finally making that big step out of her mother’s overbearing shadow, with a goal in mind... rescue Lusamine from her own stupid/ crazy shit.

During your trip to Poni Island, Lillie took more and more steps to facing her insecurities, things that would frighten her before and press forward. (USUM took out Exeggutor Island... BUT the things she said on that island went over to the RR episode in some way or form.)

Eventually reaching the altar and helping you evolve Nebby. Depending on the version, you and Lillie either go into Ultra Space to fight Lusamine... OR Necrozma kicked Lusamine’s (and Guzma’s) butt for you and causes everything to go off the rails.

In SM... Lillie chewed Lusamine out and the crazy bitch latched onto Nihilego in an attempt to kill the both of you. Then Lillie had Nebby blast Nihilego off of  Lusamine, the woman said some sweet words, Lillie forgives her... gives you Nebby right there because she wasn’t a trainer and made it her objective to help Lusamine recover... while saying she is going to become a trainer in Kanto. Yes these scenes are emotional... but it kind of undoes most of Lillie’s development towards the end, her standing up to her mother, only to go back to her in the end. We have no idea if that woman learned anything and for all we know, Lusamine would just go back to abusing Lillie again. No closure and if it was.. it is a pretty gritty ending that soured a good story and goes against the message that Children are not things that belong to their parents.

In USUM... because you the player had to deal with Necrozma... who ate Nebby and was stealing the light from Alola. Lillie’s chew up at Lusamine was off screen, but Lillie told us what she was going tell that woman at around Vast Poni Canyon.

Off screen, she called out a less crazed Lusamine out on her self entitled crap... that people are to help one another instead of trying to do things by themselves. (Like what Lusamine had been doing to her kids.)

We go back to that aftermath and we see Lusamine having a change of heart... knocked off her high horse by Necrozma and lectured by Lillie.

Admitting that her kids were right to go against her. To Lillie’s fortune, she saw her mother make the first big step to repentance... tending to what was the Cosmog. (Lusamine making repentance towards Nebby.)

This isn’t as focused as SM... but this is a good trade off.

Lillie only went back to Aether Paradise to help Nebby recover, while you the player finish up the last grand trial.

Gladion tells you to go to Mahalo trial when you beat him.

Where you find Lillie and Nebby... in the place you all first met. Lillie says her goodbyes to Nebby and promised it that she will become stronger. While Lillie doesn’t go to Kanto, she does stay with Kukui and Burnet. It isn’t as emotional, but it makes me feel happy that she is showing her growth and is in a happier environment.

As well as becoming a trainer and beginning her biggest step towards something. Which is seen in RR when Lillie becomes a trainer, it is a Clefairy and the only reason it is high leveled is because of your point in the game.

Lillie is a support trainer... which fits her character perfectly. Speaking of courage, she was willing to help you fight RR... kick a grunts butt and even help you in battling Faba. She is starting out as a trainer, so of course once that happens... you the player have to manage the rest while Lillie takes the role of healing your pokemon when needed. Some might find this disappointing, but this is reality... she started off as a trainer and she isn’t as tough as you yet.

In addition, after RR she offers to become your partner for the Battle Tree... and is one of the best supporters in that whole place.

Even if USUM isn’t as focused on her or as emotional this is good closure for one of Gamefreak’s best characters and those who said this game butchers, her story, when it really didn’t, can go take a hike.

Now for the anime. Lillie’s backstory is different compared to the games. Lusamine isn’t an abusive control freak and instead is kind of a goofy mother that smoothers Lillie in affection the first chance she gets. Treating her daughter like a baby.

She is pretty god damn neglectful and is way too childish that problems arise between her and her kids.

. In addition, Lillie is still a girl that hasn’t seen much of the outside world... so she comes off as timid and awkward.

Lillie had PTSD from being attacked by a Nihilego and ever since, she had a fear of touching pokemon. For most of the first season, Lillie slowly tries to overcome that trauma and as part of school therapy, she bonds with an Alolan Vulpix that hatched from an egg.

Snowy.

We see Lillie try to overcome that trauma piece by piece, from bonding with that Vulpix, Ash’s Pikachu AND riding on a Stoutland.

Throughout Season 1, we were also giving hints that more was to this trauma and Gladion is trying to take matters into his own hands to protect his sister. This doesn’t get revealed until the Aether Arc. (One of my Favorite Story arcs.)

Unlike the games, where Lillie was scared of Lusamine... in the anime, Lillie wasn’t scared of telling this woman off for doing things her way... like evolving Clefairy without telling anyone.

While the Clefairy Lillie cared about was Lusamine’s... that woman should have asked her kids if it was okay.

In addition, we have a pretty strained relationship between the family... because Lusamine wasn’t never really there for her kids... especially when Lillie got traumatized and that woman never bothered questioning how it happened.

We are drawn into how more of this happened and Gladion explained to Ash how Lillie’s Trauma happened. Then a Cosmog Ash was taking care of (Nebby) teleported Lillie to Type:Null... who was apart of that trauma and it caused a regression that was SO bad that Lillie didn’t even want Snowy with her. In Lillie’s eyes... Type:Full tried to attack her.

Desperate to overcome that regression, Lillie... with Ash and Nebby, retraced her steps bit by bit... to hopefully regain those memories and understand what happened. Now for those with PTSD... this is probably a bad idea if the person suffering from it doesn’t want to remember it, in this case Lillie does want to remember... as scary as it might be.

Eventually the teleporting leads to the Aether Lab... where Faba wanted to keep the incident a secret if to save his own hide. The bastard took Lillie and tried to erase her memories, which resulted in Gladion coming in with his Type:Null... that broke his helmet and kicked butt as a Silvally, to rescue Lillie.

There... she remembers what happened, she remembered what happened... she remembered Silvally pouncing on the Nihilego that caused her so much pain.

With that mystery clicked... Lillie started being more open to touching pokemon and she relished every fun moment now her phobia is gone.

Then Faba came along, took Nebby and caused a chain of events that lead to Lillie and her family meeting Nihilego again. That pokemon... caused Lillie’s fear to surface, through that event... the thing nabbed Lusamine and went into Ultra Space with her.

More trauma and leading to the girl finding a new goal... to rescue her Mother from the Ultra Beast.

That is when she takes on her Z powered form, the meaning behind the clothes is a BIT different, her stepping out of her sheltered world in an attempt to become more braze... instead of taking life into her own hands.

With this courage, she and Gladion went off to Poni Island and the alter to rescue their mother. She also helped her brother over come a Totem Kommo-o during this journey.

Once they reached the alter, Ash and the others came by to lend their supporting hand. The Tapus come and Ash brought Nebby... where the evolution end up happening and they all go into Ultra Deep Sea.

The world of Nihilego... where Lillie and the group found Mother Beast Lusamine... who thanks to the venom now drugging her out of her skull is acting like a child. She shouts out pretty harsh things to her kids and in her rampage, nearly kills them when she tries to run from them.

Along the way, the Mother Beast sends out her Pokemon against the class mates. Most keeping them at bay, with the final pokemon our heroes having to confront, being Clefable... a pokemon Lillie has a close bond with.

Even if it is a pacifist way, Lillie had the guts to try and snap Clefable out of the mother beasts control with... a pretty sappy I love you speech and a hug. (Dangerous as hell... but it worked.)

Then she, Clefable, Ash and Gladion reached the Mother Beast into a corner... where Lillie had a different choice of words to the Mother Beast. A chewing at Lusamine for her neglectful behavior, for treating Lillie like a baby and turning around to act like a bigger one. For letting work and that desire to see a UB take priority over her kids... and becoming a puppet for the UB.

That speech... worked on snapping Lusamine out of the haze... but then Nihilego took control and tried to swat Lillie. Then comes Ash using that 10,000,000 volt Z move out of nowhere and knocking Nihilego off of Lusamine.

The heroes rescue Lusamine, go home and... even if Lillie changed back to her old look, she had pretty good development to where she isn’t the same timid wreck she was. (Remember, Lusamine isn’t a control freak in the anime... the clothes have a different meaning and Lillie doesn’t have a reason to toss it out when there isn’t a symbol of an overbearing shadow.)

While Lillie is a try hard that over does herself from this point forward, she ends up taking more steps to becoming more mature and braver. (Including being part of the Ultra Guardians and dealing with more UB’s...being willing to do that as well.) Like fighting a Tyranitar that was terrorizing a group of Alolan Sandshrew, she and her Vulpix helped the Alpha shrew fight back... drive Tyranitar out and in exchange, got an Icium Z and an ice stone. Showing that more is going to be done.

As of now, she and Gladion want to look for their missing father... Mohn.

That girl is taking another big step in trying to help... by finding a way to restore a Magearna’s soul heart and becoming stronger so she CAN do something to get him back... to give her family that needed closure. This... is becoming something that might surpass the way the games told this families story if it plays its cards right. We just need to wait and see.

Lillie becoming brave enough to face this big obstacle, for the sake of her family.

[rdmfavcpls]

July 11th - Forbidden Romance

July 11th - Forbidden Romance

Category: Pokemon

Pairing: Lonashipping (Moon x Gladion)

Rating: T

Summary: Moon always wanted to find love, but not like this. She wasn’t supposed to fall in love with the enemy. She’s tried to keep her heart from skipping beats when she sees him. Why does she have to fall in love with the enemy?

Disclaimer: I do not own any rights to the franchise.

Author’s Note: 1. I am so sorry that I am so late with getting these uploaded. I tried to get everything done so I would be able to work on these as fast as I could. 2. Also, I am using the Pokemon Ranger rules for this prompt.

Please enjoy!

~~Story Begins~~

When Moon made the pledge to be a Pokemon Ranger in the Alola region, she knows for a fact that falling head over heels in love was not a part of the active duties.

Especially when she fell head over heels in love with a member of Team Skull. The Alola version of Team Rocket, only better dancers and a lot easier to forgive.

“Why do you always get in my way,” the Team Skull member that Moon would love to hate said to her.

“Why must you always try to bring innocent pokemon into your schemes?” Moon said back in response. “I mean, our lives would be easier if you quit that. If you quit Team Skull altogether, Gladion.”

Moon tilted her head to the side. “Not going to lie,” she said as she continued. “You would make a good Pokemon Ranger.”

Gladion snorted out a laugh as he threw the Pyukumuku up and catching the small pokemon. “I keep forgetting that you aren’t from this region. I’m not doing anything that’s bad, I am actually doing your job now.”

Moon placed her hands on her hips. “Excuse me?! My job does not involve throwing helpless innocent Pokemon into the ocean.”

Gladion threw the Pokemon towards the ocean and chuckled as the newbie ranger let out a scream of despair. “That’s exactly the reason why we throw them back into the ocean.” He walked to her and as he said the next words, he poked her forehead. “Because they are innocent helpless pokemon!”

He walked away and moved his hand to cover his face to hide that he had been amused by the Pokemon Ranger. Moon stood there with her fists clenched as her anger rose.

~~~~

Gladion let out a sigh as he faced Hau. He hated to do this, but he hadn’t seen his favorite Pokemon Ranger in weeks and as far as he knew, Hau was her only friend.

“Where is she?” Gladion asked.

“Who?” Hau said.

“Moon,” Gladion said. “She’s hasn’t been the Ranger to stop me. I keep getting this wanna be hot-shot.”

“Oh. She’s been in the library. Apparently, Prof. Oak asked her to help him with research and he has a lot of research.”

“I thought she was a ranger, not a professor’s assistant,” Gladion said.

Hau laughed. “She still is, but she doesn’t take on many missions. Why? Do you miss her?” Hau saw the red tint on the pale boy’s face before he had the chance to hide his face. “Ooh! You totally do!”

“Yeah, right, not really. I already deal with loudmouths in Team Skull, I don’t need to deal with loudmouth rangers.”

“Sure,” Hau said not believing a single word that came out of Gladion’s mouth. “Anyway, you didn’t hear it from me, but a white birdie told me that Moon is going to be spending time at home with her mother. I would hurry if I was you. Moon told me herself that she might head back to Kanto.”

Hau couldn’t even start his next sentence. Gladion was already on a Rider Charizard and flew off.

“Dude has it bad,” Hau said with a laugh before waving at Gladion who was already gone. “Good luck!”

Gladion jumped off of the Charizard in front of Moon’s house before it even landed. He barged into Moon’s house because no one ever knocks in the Alola region. However, Gladion really started to rethink that choice considering that he saw the back of the newest Pokemon Ranger.

When the loudmouth moved to the side suddenly and Gladion saw a book flying at him, he ducked.

“Gladion!” Moon said surprised as she saw the Team Skull member looking at the book that hit the door and dropped to the floor. “I’m sorry!”

“Is that how people treat their guests in Kanto?” Gladion asked as he looked back at the young female who he may or may not have a crush on. (He totally does, but his brain refuses to let his heart say it.)

“What are you doing here?” the loud-mouth ranger asked as he got in Gladion’s face. “Are you here to steal Mom’s Meowth?” There was a thud and the ranger was rubbing his head. “Ow!”

“Can you be quiet for five minutes?” Moon said. “Oh, wait! No, you can’t. Otherwise, I wouldn’t be stuck helping Professor Oak!”

Gladion blinked as something slithered by his legs when the man turned around and faced Moon, he looked down and saw an Arbok wrapping around his legs.

The snake pokemon started to rub its head against his leg as it hissed.

“Sun, really? Can you be any more of an annoyance?” Moon said with a sigh. “Actually, could you be any more self-centered? I can’t believe you forgot her! You know she hates being forgotten!”

“I hate to break up this fight, but can someone get this snake away from me?” Gladion said. He looked at Sun. “Shouldn’t you be doing ranger stuff?”

“Arbok, get away from him!” Sun said as Moon giggled. “He’s our enemy.”

“Aww. My brother’s partner pokemon has a crush on you,” Moon said.

“That’s...great?” Gladion said as Arbok kept squeezing his legs. “However, I’m afraid to say that Pokemon are just not the species in which I have a crush on.”

He gently rubbed the Arbok’s head. “I’m also afraid to say that I already have someone in mind,” he said before the words could be stopped.

“So, what brings you here?” Moon said as Sun finally managed to get his partner pokemon away from the unexpected guest.

“Hau told me that rumor was going around saying you were going back to Kanto,” Gladion said. “Besides, you haven’t been around to stop me from doing anything stupid.”

“No, but I have been,” Sun said.

“Yes, but you are too loud,” Gladion said. “I’m not going to lie, but I have been missing my dates with Moon.”

All he wanted was to get a reaction out of Moon, but he was not expecting for Moon’s face to become a beet red while Sun was a stuttering mess and didn’t know who he could talk too.

~~~~

Sun stood in front of the Head Pokemon Ranger Nanu who was actually laughing for once. Every time he managed to compose himself, he started to laugh again.

Sun crossed his arms and tapped his foot impatiently on the floor. “You done?” Sun asked.

“I don’t think I have ever laughed that hard in my life,” Nanu said. “I don’t know about Kanto, but there aren’t any rules saying that a Ranger isn’t allowed to date a member of Team Skull. Even if there was, she’ll still be allowed to date Gladion. He’s more like their handyman and not a full-fledged member.”

Nanu leaned on his desk and stared at Sun. “So how’s the long-distance relationship working for them?”

~~~~

Gladion just said it as a joke, but since Moon’s face and her surprised look revealed that she has feelings for him as well. So, since she was gone, he started to plan.

He was a member of Team Skull and a runaway. She was a well-respected Pokemon Ranger reigning from Kanto. In Alola, gossip spreads quickly and secrets don’t stay secrets. At the same time, he wants to make a good impression on her too.

He looked at Type: Null and sighed. “What should I do? I know you like her too.”

Type: Null looked at Gladion before it yawned.

“Your answer to everything is to sleep,” Gladion said with a sigh.

~~~~

No was expecting the Wela Volcano to erupt. So when it did, everyone was there evacuating the citizens and Pokemon from the park and closest town. Pokemon Rangers and Team Skull were working side by side. Hau and Lillie helping direct the people where to go.

“That’s everyone!” Gladion yelled to the Team Skill members and rangers.

“Nebby!” Lillie yelled as the purple cloud pokemon went closer to the fire. Lillie went to go chase after her pokemon but Type: Null stopped her.

“Lillie, go back to Hau and evacuate. I’ll go get Nebby,” Gladion said before turning around and turning towards Nebby and the lava.

“Gladion!” Lillie said as Hau and Type: Null pulled her away.

~~~~

“Okay, Nebby,” Gladion said as he held the rare pokemon. “What do we do now?”

They were surrounded by lava that was fast approaching them. There weren’t any other surfaces for them to step on and the one path that was open, they wouldn’t be able to get to safety first. Not with how fast the lava was moving up the rocks.

Gladion looked up and around as he heard hooves quickly approaching. “What pokemon is still here?” Gladion said.

Nebby made a happy sound as a white horse with a horn came galloping towards them. A fiery mane went down the horse’s back and its tail was just as fiery.

“Oh, great. Our chance of being free comes in a fiery horse,” Gladion said. “Either way, I’m bound to get burned.”

The horse ran around Gladion before coming to a halt. On top of the fiery horse was Moon who looked at Gladion.

“Get on,” Moon said. “Her fire won’t hurt you. I promise.”

“I’m sorry, but I don’t see how that would happen,”  Gladion said as he took a step back. The heat from the lava licked the back of his heel.

“Gladion, do you trust me?” Moon said. He looked at her and nodded. “Then get on and trust me.”

Gladion swallowed and gave her Nebby to hold before he got on. He was mentally prepared for his clothes to burn, which wasn’t happening.

“Huh?” Gladion said in surprise. This didn’t make any sense.

“Hold on,” Moon said. “Let’s go, Rapidash!”

Rapidash rose on her hind legs and let out a loud ‘da-’ sound before they took off. Gladion quickly held on as he almost fell off, but he wasn’t expecting the Pokemon to go as fast as she was.

He saw the lava start to fall in front of them as they were about to reach the spot under the rock. “Moon, we aren’t going to make it!”

“Yes, we are,” Moon said. “We are already almost there.” She patted the side of Rapidash. “You know what to do.”

Rapidash let out a sound of agreement and Gladion saw two versions of Rapidash appear on their sides. Then she started to go a lot faster than what she already was as they cleared the lava before it could even fall.

They got to the designated site faster than a Tauros at full charge. The sounds of relief, curiosity, and wonder were heard as Rapidash came to a stop.

“Gladion! Nebby! Moon!” Lille said as Gladion got off the horse pokemon and took Nebby. Moon stayed on top and was rubbing the side of Rapidash muzzle. “You’re safe.”

Nebby went over to Lillie and made a ‘kee’ sound. “So, I’ve never seen this Pokemon before.”

“Listen up!” Moon said. “I know many of you are curious over Rapidash, but I must stress this. You are NOT allowed to touch her. She will burn you. She won’t burn those who she can trust.”

Sun came up beside Rapidash and went to pat her mane. “Exactly so unless she -” he placed his hand on her mane and pulled away as he got burned. “OW!”

“Like so,” Moon said. She looked down at her brother. “That’s what you get for leaving her in Kanto by herself!”

“So, she trusts me,” Gladion said as Nanu took over the situation and Moon got off of her pokemon.

“Yes,” Moon said with a smile as Rapidash nuzzled her. “I talked a lot about you when I went to retrieve her.

Gladion couldn’t help but smile back. He wanted out of Team Skull as soon as he could. He also made a decision that he’ll ask her for help to stop his mom. Then he’ll take her out properly.

Especially since their romance was forbidden...or so they thought.

~~The End~~