The Tale of Seven: The Summon of Sorrow

[Rikugurl]

Axel crossed his arms, sighing some as he tried to think. There was no way that this was right. Eskel got crushed in a rescue and Kuku suddenly goes missing. It really didn't look good for him right now. He knew the police would look at all the clues but Teams could be tricky. Or maybe... there was just something else to it. Whatever it was, it wasn't settling right in his stomach.
"I would of suggested that we go to his funeral but... we can't leave the Haven that easily and even if there was someone that could watch over it, we just can't leave the two wounded pokemon unattended."

Speaking of wounded, there was some improvement today in the baby and with that, the mother seemed to be doing well too. The only issue was, the better their health got, the stronger they would get... and the less chances of them keeping the situation handled. He was still debating if they should look for a Dark Type specialist... even if Roxas was pretty close to call himself that. Just like Kuku and Eskel had been worried about their own Haven where they kept pokemon away from humans to gather some confidence again, and getting it ruined by people bursting through, he was worried that this mother and child would get out and... hurt the other pokemon or do something irrational from the hate the mother was drenched in.

And it was a good thing Roxas caught his husband in time because he was going to check up on the fake Roxas...

Slowly, his green, narrow eyes looked down at the blonde who was still in shock. "Roxas... what would you do... if I was crushed in a cave and you had to witness it?"


Bre started to whimper as he was pet gently, his red eyes still intent on the mice in the log. He couldn't blame her, really. He would probably act the same... if Riku ever passed away. He slowly got on his belly, laying his body low on the ground as he listened to them talk.

[Reno]

"Eskel would understand..." Roxas murmured when he realized they couldn't attend the funeral even if they wanted to. They were pretty much tied to the haven. "He was a rescuer too. If he were here... he'd tell us the Pokemon come first." That was just the way they all were. Sure some were more selfish than others at times but... when it came right down to it, every rescuer was willing to put their life on the line for a Pokemon. Even he had... he once jumped into a freezing pool of water to protect a Mudkip from a Sharpedo... had Saix not trained her so well she probably would have ripped him apart.

It was just... it was the line of the job. They'd had their own near death experiences here even.

He frowned as the news report moved on but their minds stayed still on the last update. When he heard his lover though, Roxas gave the other a sharp look, thinking at first he was making a joke of the whole thing. But the other just seemed contemplative. He hesitated then looked away. "I..." What would he do?

More so, what would he do if he were the one who got out and survived... while Axel was the one who got left behind and killed? The idea was... almost too horrible to imagine. And it was actually a reality he nearly faced... that day Axel fell through the ice. Those feelings came rushing back suddenly and he finally had an answer. "I... dunno Axel..." He whispered softly, "I'd... find to hard how to... to even just live without you. If I lost you like that, I'd feel so guilty and... and lost."

...Was Kuku missing not because he was kidnapped... but because he wasn't ever going to be found on this world again?


"Chu..." The female sniffled, her scuffed ears still low. He knew it wouldn't be easy... that it would take some time to heal. He couldn't imagine what it was like for them; to lose a master. someone who took care of you and was your friend. He supposed though it was a lot like... losing a parent.
"...Hey... would you... do you want to go to the funeral ceremony?" Ears twitched - of course she knew what that was; She went to Raichu's and Star's. She'd never gone to a human one's before. "You know how much he loved... how well you took care of flowers. You can give some to him again..."
"....Pikaaa..." The little yellow mouse shut her eyes and slowly nodded. That... she would like that. She could... say goodbye... and her final thanks. If it wasn't for Eskel, she wouldn't be here. She wouldn't have children or had a mate. She wouldn't have... two wonderful trainers looking after her and caring for her every day. She wouldn't even of wanted to be near them...
"Alright then... we'll do that, promise." Sora smiled gently. "Do... you want to go home now or would you rather stay here a little longer?"

He found his answer when the tiny Pikachu wormed her way out of the log and climbed into her master's lap, snuggling closer as he hugged her sniffling some more. The comfort felt so nice. He dropped a gentle kiss on her head, murmuring, "Alright, lets go home." He stood and started to walk back, glancing back and making sure Umbreon and Reggie were following.

The trip back home was easy and short but even still by the time he walked through the door, the distraught little Pokemon was already fast asleep in his arms. He laid her gently on her little bed she once shared with Raichu... and was a bit surprised when Jolteon came over, gripping a little blanket in his teeth and pulling it up and over the small mouse. Usually these days he found the yellow fox just lounging around the house or sleeping. It was... nice seeing him up and about; worried for everyone and so protective. Just like he always was. He smiled, petting his old friend. "Good boy Jolt..."

[Rikugurl]

Axel nodded, looking up at the ceiling with some thought. "Then maybe... maybe Kuku really isn't missing. Maybe... maybe he's out there, somewhere... blaming himself for Eskel's death. I mean... if that happened to either of us... the last thing we would was it cameras and media shoved in our face... having to relive that moment in our lives where we... failed. Answering all those questions that even you couldn't understand." He slowly walked around the couch, sitting down and wrapping his arm around the blonde. "And there is another known fact. The media doesn't know those two were lovers... they don't understand the depth of it all. I'm sure Kuku will come around again... or maybe not. I just hope... he's alright."


Umbreon rose his head as he watched the little pikachu get into Sora's lap, watching the magic that his master's mate had when talking to Pokemon. He should of been blessed by Darkrai! He stood and followed Sora back through the forest, his rings glowing still to light the way and make sure any mischievous pokemon kept their distance.
When they reached the house again, Riku was waiting for them at the front porch and moved out of the way when they came by. The door was closed behind them and Bre felt another pat on his head from his master.

As the mouse was tucked in, the silverette went back into the living room and turned the TV off. His aquamarine eyes looked back, seeing Sora getting ready to turn things off for bed as well. "I guess we're going to that funeral, huh?" He asked softly as Sora came closer. He knew what the answer was before Sora even spoke it but smiled anyway. "Well... I suppose we can stop by and see you're dad while we're down there too."

[Reno]

Roxas sighed, leaning up against the other as he came near. Flareon whined softly as he shifted and did as well, draping her warm body across both their laps while Ninetails laid at their feet. He just couldn't believe... Eskel was gone. "I'm sure... wherever he is... he's alright."


The brunette smiled faintly as Jolteon laid down near the pillow and soon enough Reggie was climbing on the cushions as well to keep her company too. "Good night you guys." He murmured softly before getting up and walking away silently. He flipped off the lights in the kitchen and headed into the living room, switching off a lamp. As he heard the his husband he looked at him, smiling a little guiltily. "It would be good for her..." He murmured gently.

Luckily... the silverette didn't seem too upset and at the idea he smiled more and nodded. "Yeah that would be nice." After checking things around the house and making sure the other Pokmon where settling down they headed to their own room. Sora sighed pulled his shirt over his head. "It's just... so hard to believe..." He murmured. He could still remember all those years ago... that day while Roxas and Axel were making a call to local rescue centers so that they could find a lead... and Riku pointing out the window with a smile, where outside Kuku and Eskel were cuddling on the couch.

Life could change so easily in just a few seconds time. Taken away so easily... His heart felt heavy with sympathy and loss. "Poor Kuku..."


The day was perfect. The sun was shining and not a cloud was in sight. The ocean rolled gently but loudly, kids running across the beach chasing Krabby and look for Shellder. A few of the naughtier bunch were even tossing rocks at the Wingulls perched on the crags until their parents came over to punish them.

It was a day no one wanted to waste. As the preacher said the final words, the majority of the people dispersed, unknowingly leaving a small family behind. A gentle hand nundged the small mouse at his feet. "Go on~" Came the gentle urging. Brown eyes glanced at him tentatively. A small paw reached out and took hers, her tall son giving her a little more confidence as he lead her to the freshly dug grave.

They walked over, the smaller mouse quite cute really. At the base of either ear was a single, beautiful olive green flower bow and her fur had been carefully cleaned and brushed so it was silky and smooth. In her tiny paws was a small bundle of pretty pink flowers that had nice, yellow stigmas, white edges and black spots on the fine pink flowers. They were tied together with yet another bow - this one a deep violet. She set them down with care. Lilies from Lily.

As the two mice came back, her master smiled to her, leaning down to give her a pet. She had been very brave, not even flinching from the crowd of rescuers and strangers. Even still she snuggled up against her master as he picked her up and held her near, not even minding as they turned from the cemetery and headed down the seaside trial. Reginald and Jolteon were at her left, both of them also nicely combed down. Reggie wore a dark purple bow tie, and Jolteon a dark green. At her right Riku walked with Umbreon at his side, wearing a dark blue bow. There was no question who had gotten them ready for the funeral.

"I just can't believe he wasn't there. Do you think... they haven't... you know... found him yet?" The mouse blinked, her ears twitching as she realized she had missed the conversation Sora was having with Riku.


Meanwhile, back in Canaclave, a battle was raging.
"Gyro ball, Bronzor!" Came the powerful booming voice of the gym leader, seeming to rock the walls even. The floating discus-like Pokemon starting to spin rapidly, blue glows shimmering around his body as he flew like a top straight for it's faltering opponent.
"Moxley, come on! Jump out of the way and use shadow ball!"
"Vee!" Came an answering cry, the scruffy silver and white furred Pokemon keeping jumping from his rock and into the air, hearing Bronzor smash into the boulder. He opened his mouth and a ball of black energy with purple electricity formed. He tossed his head and let the ball fly, spinning in midair and smacking it hard with his fluffy tail to give it an extra boost.

The ball hit the spinning steel-type directly and dust blasted upwards. "Ve." Came a tired cry the little Pokemon landing and panting softly, looking at the dust cloud with pride. Even Tensai seemed to relax and smile. "Alright!" That had to be it!
"You haven't won yet! A good offensive makes for excellent defense!"
And from the dust the bronze Pokemon flew, still spinning and seeming unaffected by the attack!
"VEE?!" Came a cry, neither trainer nor Pokemon ready for it. That was why no order came in time and the poor little fox was hit straight on by the attack - and certainly not for the first time this day. "VEEE!" The little creature flew back and rolled in the dirt, swirls in his eyes.
"Moxley!!"
"Moxley is unable to battle, this round goes to Bronzor!"

"Come on Tensai, don't give up!" He heard his friends cheer from the sidelines as he sighed and recalled the young fox. "Good job Mox..." What happened? He though he had it in the bag! That gyro ball... it knocked off most of the damage...? He frowned and placed the ball back on his belt.
"Smeaaar..." Came a soft call from his side, Smeargle looking up at his trainer in concern.
"Well... good as time as any, right?" He reached for the fifth Pokemon at his belt... and threw it. "Go Pepper!"
In a burst of light a Stunky appeared, tail upraised and ready for anything. Unlike her mother, Pepper was neither shy nor missing any confidence. And, personally, she rather liked how she smelt.

"Ah and what will a poison type do when it has no effect over my defensive steel types?"
Tensai bit his lip. That was right.. He hadn't actually thought of that but Pepper was his only Pokemon who could help him now. "I suppose you'll see!"
"Hmm... Gyro ball again Bronzor!"
That damn... spinning top!
"Dig, hurry!"
"Stun!" Came the affirmative and the skunk was quick to dig underground; Bronzor, a bit baffled with his opponent gone, cut his attack short, floating over the hole.
"Alright, now grab onto Bronzor!"
Just a few feet away the red stunk burst from the ground behind the bronze mirror, and grabbed onto his back.
"Bron? Brooon!" The other Pokemon said, floating about and shaking, trying to get the other off, but she had a good grip with her claws.
"Alright Pepper! Give it your flamethrower!"
'Whoo!!!' He heard the red twins exclaim with joy as the skunk's mouth opened and a powerful burst of flames flew out, hitting the steel type at close range. The poor creature flew and smacked into a rock, destroying it and once the dust settled the steel type was revealed with swirls in his eyes.

Tensai couldn't help but smile with glee as he got cheered for the victory. He won, he really won!
"Hmm... not bad, but this battle is just getting started." the steel-type leader said as he recalled the Pokemon only to let out another. This one was about thirty times bigger, Tensai having to crane his neck to see it, his mouth gaping open.
"LIIIIIIIIIX!"
And boy was it loud! Tensai winced, covering his ears.
"KY?!"
Maybe they should have fought Roark first after all! Then again he was sure Byron taught him everything he knew, considering he was his dad!

[Rikugurl]

There was a low, joyous purr as a very small hand pet his head. The hand wasn't actually very small... the Pokemon was just huge! the red scales were healthy and shiny, showing good diet and clean water. This Pokemon really came a long way. He was actually the symbol of the Haven even if the owners favored fire types. "Was that yummy, Riot?" The redhead asked, knowing that it was but the large, red dragon liked this kind of talk. "Gyyyyyyaa..." He continued to purr until Axel backed up some, grabbing the empty pail next to him. It was a job in itself just feeding all these Pokemon. He kinda wished the kids were still here to pawn the chore off to them.

Inside the Haven, Roxas was learning quick that Axel was right. The more the mother gained her strength, the harder it was to take the baby away from her. She was strong enough to move one piece of heavy furniture in front of the door so no one could get in. Aqu glowing eyes glared at the window when Roxas suddenly appeared, quickly hissing at him.


Red eyes glanced up at his master, then glanced at the little pikachu in his mate's arms. Even still, he had never gotten use to dressing up. He ran away and hid the best he could but he was still brushed out and flared up. He was lucky hos own mate had been able to hide easier, knowing that she would be all dolled up too.
"You did a great job, Lily." Riku replied, reaching over to pat her head. They had no clue what was actually happening behind them. While they were walking away, eyes suddenly appeared on the new tombstone, glancing around before a large, see through, purple ghost floated out of it, heading right over towards the small family.

A large tongue flailed out and smacked into the side of Jolteon, instantly paralyzing him.
"HAU HAU HAUN!!" The large ghost suddenly started laughing, clapping his hands together as the poor, stiff dog flopped over.
Why were people so sad during funerals!


Eyes widened as he took cranked his neck up, his excitement getting choked down his throat as he gasped. "Were you TRYING to set us up for failure, Bonnie!" The young fire head started to flail, looking back at the oldest member of their group.
"I figured with your fire obsession, it wouldn't be a big deal!" Bonnie spat out, making Roxel roll his eyes. "That's my DAD!"
"Hey! You have two fire type! I bet you could get a badge." The girl nodded with confidence.
"NO WAY! My pokemon aren't fighters!" The young boy seemed to deflate, looking down at his best friend who was pretty much shaking to death. There was no way he could do this! Pepper was going to get crushed! "Hey Sanyi, your mom has a Steelix, right? Well, how about some poin---"

BANG

"I knew those losers were in here." Everyone glanced to the front of the stadium and saw, "LUCINA!? GUNNAR!?"
"Oi, what are THEY doing here?" Even Bonnie was grumbling as she saw the two siblings walk in.

[Reno]

It was a good thing that even though the kids were gone, a lot of Pokemon were still left to help out! "Flaaar!" A red fox said, dragging - or attempted to drag - a bag of oats to the horse barn. "Aa-aaar-aaaar-eon!!" She flopped over and sighed. This was no fun! Green eyes blinked, tilting her head some as she looked at the pen alongside the barn... and grinned. Well now didn't that look fun...?

When Axel came round, he found the bag of oats left in the middle of the grass forgotten... and one very dirty Flareon romping around in the muddy pig pen with the spoinks. "Eooon!"

There was a soft sigh, blue eyes spotted the block on the door from the window, before he met her eyes again. He could practically feel the mistrust coming from her. He raised the bag full of clear liquid imploringly; "Come on now... your son needs this. What good will it do him if you keep me locked out?"


"Chuu..." The small mouse said, but her ears perked a little, detecting something strange in the air. They knew in a moment what it was.
"JOL-" A thump and the dog huffed unhappily, stuck in place as his 'mate' laughed around him. His violet eyes rolled and he sighed. "Eon..."
"Haunter! How many times have I told you not to... oh why do I even bother?" Sora sighed, running a hand through his hair. His poor fox; how many times now has it been that he'd been paralyzed? He was getting too old for that!

The fox sighed, slowly getting to his feet as the effects wore off, having been so used to this that he was almost immune. Almost. He shook it off and huffed at the other before he started to walk down the sidewalk. Usually he'd shock the ghost to get back at him, but his energy was a bit sparse these days.


It was like... some grand entrance. The type of over-dramatic thing you only saw in movies. But even still the Almasys' appearance made even Tensai flustered, especially with the gaze Gunnar and Lucina both spared him and his Pokemon with such a flippant air he could see how meager they thought they all where. No wonder Roxel didn't like them; they just had a way of making you feel low.
"If you're hear for a match, you'll have to take a seat." The referee informed the two who interrupted.
"Tch, it's a shame a gym leader is wasting his time on this sham of a battle." Lucina said with a rather harsh air, her ponytail bouncing as she walked along the edge of the ring, passing by the cheering squad.
"Hey ribbons, are you following us?!" Roxanne snapped, the hair on the back of her neck bristling.
"Please, barettes. Like you'd be worth following; of course..." She swept her gaze to the field again, zeroing in on Pepper. "Your leaving such a stink even a Psyduck could find his way to you losers."

"Stu...?" The young skunk questioned before her eyes narrowed. What an insolent human!
Tensai ground his teeth, his own anger rising, having heard the comment. "Just ignore her Pepper... she doesn't know what she's talking about."

[Rikugurl]

"Wha--- Flareon!" Axel cried as he saw the playful pup in the mud, making the spoinks bounce away from fright. The pail was dropped as the tall rescuer stomped over, grabbing Flareon by the scuff. "Don't scare them like that." He scorned before placing the fire fox down. "You know those poor spoink were attacked by dog pokemon! Stay way from their pen." The little fox whimpered, pulling her best pout that only made Axel roll his eyes. "Why don't you go to the snow lodge and play with the swinubs instead?" The fox seemed to like that idea... because she was suddenly off running down the path towards the mountain to the right of the Haven.

Inside, the mother only glared at the blonde through the window, turning her flank to him as she growled but paused, slowly looking back at the human. It was then that her baby started to cough and sneeze, shaking slightly. She looked at the bag before looking at Roxas and finally back at her child. There was a sudden sigh of defeat before walking to the little fox on the bed, her balance and leg better so her limp was gone. Her strong arms wrapped around the ball of fluff and she turned, heading back to the door. Her foot extended and she pushed the furniture out of the way.


"Haunter....?" The ghost saddened, his floating hands falling near the ground. What was wrong? Didn't he want to play? Quickly, he floated after the yellow fox, making sure he was alright.
Riku just watched, shaking his head before smiling down at his shorter husband. "Come on, let's go to your dad's." They walked down the street some, enjoying the beautiful day and the smell of the ocean coming through the buildings. They came to a little house that was still very new to Sora, hard for him to get use to. Since the house he knew as a child and young adult was destroyed by the floods, his father had to invest in a new one.

The door was opened and the couple walked in, seeing the house neatly cleaned and organized. This wasn't exactly the work of the old man but--- "KIR!! Kirlia!" A sweet voice came to greet them, a ballerina pokemon walking over with a smile. She curtsied in front of them and glanced back, seeing an old man walking into the room with a cane. "Oh... S-sora. It's so good to see you again." The old man smiled, hobbling over slowly.


Eyes glanced when the sound of teeth grinding could be heard so close by, seeing chips of Roxel's teeth flying all over as steam came from his head. "Calm down before you explode like a---"
"CAMERUPT!? I KNOW!" Roxe cried in pure anger but Sanyi quickly pulled him back down onto the bleacher.

"It's going to smell horrible in here when that skunk becomes nothing but a flat piece of road kill." Gunnar snickered as he passed by Tensai with his sister. "And we only have three more gym battles to win. This, and then Oreburgh City. We plan on showing Roark that we beat his daddy first~"

[Reno]

It was a good thing Axel was around to watch out for the poor Spoinks... unfortunately in about two seconds he was probably going to have to also become his husband's hero.

Blue eyes watched her carefully, seeing her actions. His heart thumped a bit irregularly, knowing this was either a big step... or a big set up. Thus mother... she was a very intelligent being. She understood things very clearly and could plan ahead. He walked to the door and took a breath as his hand hovered over the keypad. Before it had been easy enough to keep her in the room as they removed Zorua from it to take care of the sickness. But now with her on her feet it would be an easy enough task to attack him and bolt.

That was why sitting on a lamp down the hall was his Chatot ready to sing, and standing at the front door protectively was Absol, preventing her escape. He heard a few light coughs on the inside and then a soft noise, "Mama..."

His eyes widened a bit but he knew he couldn't keep Zorua waiting and he punched in the code and the door slid open, Roxas praying he was ready for anything.


Sora smiled faintly and nodded following his husband to his dad's house. It still saddened him to see it unable to think of the old, two-story half-acre he used to live on with the cute little backyard and the Cressilia blossoms mom always planted in the front. All the things lost...

He shut his eyes and sighed but smiled, walking into the house with little announcement. He smiled as they were quickly greeted at the door... by the only creature who was still fast in this house, "Hey Kirlia!" He chirped happily, "The place looks great! I hope you haven't been working too hard." The psychic just smiled reassuringly, but looked back at the sound of the cane.

Lily was let down on the floor as her master crossed the house to his father. "Hey dad!" He said, cheery as ever, giving him a hug, not noticing how his Pokemon were confiscating the living room. Reggie and Lily jumped on the couch together and Jolteon found a nice spot in the armchair to rest, ignoring the way Haunter was floating in circles around him.

"I hope things have been well."


"Smear!" Charlie growled at his feet, his paint leaving a mark on the ground as he lashed his tail in irritation. Beside him his master was shaking, looking ready to walk right off the stage and punch Gunnar's teeth out!
"Huh, you kids got quite a mouth on ya, don't ya?" Byron said, observing the two newcomers and the interesting... chemistry between the two groups. His voice drew the Almasy's attention and the man smirked. "With your attitudes you strike me as the types to go rushing into a battle, giving it all you got."
"That's right!" Lucina confirmed proudly. "That's the Almasy way!"
The gym leader sighed shaking his head, "I'll be lucky to see any defense in your entire move sets! Well, we'll see if you two aren't all talk soon enough. But for now I have a battle to get back too." He turned his eyes back to the other trainer. "Let's get back too it!"

"Right!" Tensai nodded, looking up at the large rock snake, then looked at Pepper. She was up against a formidable opponent with a bad type disadvantages and he still had two more Pokemon to go... and no way to fight with his only water-type on this land unless....

Unless he used the area... to his advantage just like... that was it!

"Pepper, dig again!"
"Sku!" The stunk called and buried herself under the ground.
"Let's bring it right out of the ground with iron tail."
"STEEEL!" The booming voice cried and echoed, before a sharp glowing tail punctured the hard ground and split it apart and Pepper came flailing out.
"Keep going Pep! Dig again!"
"TTY!" Came the little cry before the Pokemon bounced off some of the flying rocks and shot back for the ground and ended up underneath once more.

[Rikugurl]

"LIEUTENANT!" Axel cupped his hands around his mouth as he called out the name and then whistled.
Across the meadows, a large, blue dog with yellow highlights were rounding up a small heard of new Miltanks. His paws skid against the ground and his head lifted into the air. Quickly, he changed his course, his job done anyway as the cow Pokemon gathered inside the barn for food. The lightning dog jumped over the wooden fence and ran across the way to the Ponyta barn where Axel was waiting. "Good boy, Lieu~" Axel smiled, rubbing under the Manectric's chin. This pokemon was a trooper as well. He was Axel's brother's pokemon and after being a Turk Pokemon, he came a long way to become gentle and helpful.

"I need you to bring this bag of oats to the Ponyta and help Mia with filling the trays, alright?"
"Tric." The canine nodded before heading to the bag that Flareon had abandoned, easily picking it up with his teeth and bringing it inside the ranch. Inside, an Ambipom with only one 'extra' hand, was waiting over the trough, smiling when she saw the bag carried over to her.


The door opened and Roxas could really visual just how large this protective mother way. How fierce her eyes truly were as they glowed, narrowing right as they came face to face. There was a low growled and she heard one return as an older, protective pokemon watched her closely. Her gaze moved back to the human who was still frightened, and even if he tried to show her he was fearless, she could smell it easily. He may of had plenty of practice with known Dark types... but he never knew anything quite like her.

The child suddenly squirmed a bit, pulling from her warmth to cough. Red claws held the baby close, making sure he was alright. As she did, a blue light came over her and like a scanner, ran up her body. Once again, Roxas looked at a mirror of himself.
"I want to watch you. I have the right as a mother to make sure my child is safe."


"Yes, yes... things are fine." Sirocco smiled softly as his son came over and returned a weak hug. "I just have been feeling a bit lonely and depressed this week. I brought Pigeot to the center today and they said she would only last one week. Her heart isn't doing well and she can hardly fly anymore." He slowly looked behind him, glancing into the den where a large pokemon perched, sleeping peacefully. "I had her for a long time... and she lived longer than I expected. She's a good Pokemon and friend..." He nodded slowly before looking back at Sora. "Ah! Where is my grandson?"

Riku couldn't help but overhear, walking over to the increasingly shorter elder. "He's on his journey. I told him to call you yesterday... I guess he---"
"Oh, don't worry about it. I can hardly hear when the phone rings. Pigeot always answers it but I'm afraid that she can no longer. A letter is always nice though."
The silverette smiled, nodding. "Alright. I'll ask him to write you."


"Tch~" Gunnar and his sister made their way to the bleachers, sittig down and watching the fight continue... but it didn't take the wise ass to figure out what Tensai was doing. "You're such a ganker!" He shouted. "Can't you make up your own strategy!? Your stupid gas bag is going to get crush when that Steelix falls through the arena!"

[Reno]

Roxas faced the other feeling a tremble in his legs. It was... it was so pathetic it was almost ridiculous! He faced off against it all. Certain death. Real death. A gun. A sword. A raging red Gyarados. And yet somewhere in him, still there, was that speck of fear. He calmed some himself when she changed into his doppleganger. It was something familiar; something he understood.

At her request he nodded in acceptance and smiled. "Of course." The two Pokemon watched with careful, worried eyes as Roxas turned and started down the hall, "Then please follow me." And the second Roxas... followed. There was no vicious attack at the back, or even an attempt to flee now that he was off his guard. Either she had figured it was useless... or knew she needed them.

He opened the door to the medical room and the lights came on from a simple switch, allowing the 'two' to enter. He indicated the table and the mother was reluctant at first but slowly laid her son on it, feeling him shake a little.
"Mamaaaa..." Came another longer whine, the young one not liking this predicament. Few Pokemon did, but she soothed him gently while still watching him like a hawk as he picked up a thermometer.

Roxas knew he'd have to explain every action to earn her trust. "I need to take Zorua's temperature," He explained.
"Oooh... I hate this part." The fox murmured hiding his eyes; it was rather cutely comical - he wish Axel was here to see it.
His counterpart scoffed and plainly informed him it was hot and what more did he need to know other than that?
"I need to know how critical it is." Roxas said, "So I can give your son the right dose of nutrients and medicines to fight it."
"But ask him wear he puts it mama... ask him!" The child demanded, coughing a little.
Roxas blinked but blushed a bit when the mother did exactly that. "Erm... well... the only way to get an accurate reading is... anally."
This word seemed to go over her head and he shifted uncomfortably... before pointing with his finger to the child's rear, where the little round, hair free spot was under his tail. "Um, here."



Sora's eyes were sad as he heard his father's solemn tone, looking past him to see the loyal, old bird on her perch. He felt his dad's pain... Heart problems was what got Star too. Birds... were creatures that tended to have weak hearts since they flew at altitudes that pressured the muscles. "I-"

He blinked some as the topic changed abruptly, and he wasn't really prepared for it so he wasn't sure how to shift from 'I'm sorry' to 'He isn't here' but luckily Riku was at his rescue. It was a good thing that... over the years his father had become much friendlier around his, Ven and Roxas' lovers. It seemed the fact that they all nearly died from drowning and were even nearly brutally murdered on live television, probably had a bit to do with his sudden change of heart. Sora wouldn't complain though; it made visiting very easy.

"Come on dad, let's go sit down and have a chat!" The brunette said in his happy way, leading his father to the living room... where he had to remove his sleeping Jolteon from his father's armchair.



As Lucina watched the very Deja Vu battle she realized something about the Stunky she hadn't before. "How many fucking shiny Pokemon do they have?" She grumbled under her breath. Beside her, Gunnar probably hadn't heard her as he shouted to Tensai.

"Hey Gunnar back off!" Roxanne snapped angrily, hating the way he was talking to her friend. What gave either of them the right?! They didn't even know him beyond the fact they were friends and cousins!
But to all their surprise, as Pepper burst from the ground thanks to another iron tail, a new call was made, "Return Pepper!" He breathed out shakily, mumbling, "That was perfect; exactly what I wanted. Rest up until the next one." The good thing about gym battles was the train could always inter-change his Pokemon. He was about to set it on his belt, but another annoying voice caught his attention.
"What's wrong barettes?" Luci scoffed, but her voice was loud, "I mean he's actually realizing he's an unoriginal idiot anyways!"

"Gle...?" Charlie called a bit worriedly, seeing the way his master was shaking, holding the pokeball in his hand so tightly he worried it might crack. He knew the black-haired teen was about to explo-
"DO YOU TWO HAVE A WORD LIMIT YOU HAVE TO MEET EVERY DAY OR CAN YOU KINDLY SHUT THE FUCK UP AND WATCH ALREADY?!" Blazing orange eyes glared at the two Almasy's looking like a raging Tauros. The outburst was a bit unexpected and caught them completely off guard; had to be said - Tensai really just looked like a wimp who would take bullying without a word.

Seems that wasn't the case.

When no smart-assed comments came shouting back at him, Tensai huffed and grabbed his third choice from his belt. He was a little surprised to see how amused Byron was but didn't dwell on it. They thought they were so smart - thought they had it all figured out! His strategy wasn't to trap Steelix and if they noticed how he had Pepper make the holes - and following iron tails which actually helped him get the job done faster, they would of noticed. But no they were too busy being fucking jerks to see anything at all!

"Alright Napoleon, you're up! Let's show them what you got!"
The small group jerked in surprise - and Gunnar and Lucina were baffled into it when they realized just who Napoleon was. Even Byron was a little mystified.

A water type. A smart move.

It was also a fish.

......Not a smart move.

"Seaaaking..." The heavyset goldfish flopped on the arena some, a little confused. But Tensai was quick to call his first move. "Waterfall, on the arena!"
"King!" The Pokemon's eyes quickly glowed and underneath him a spiraling tower of water rose high - as high as Steelix! And then it slowly twisted like a branch slowly bending until it broke and splashed not onto his opponent but back into the ground. It was a powerful water move and used a large quantity...

And suddenly the water filled in the spaces left by the holes and cracks of the iron tail and dig moves until it formed a U shape... circling Steelix and trapping him to the other side of the field. Napoleon surfaced, seeming very happy as he swam in his makeshift pool. Tensai sighed in relief and smirked, glancing at the Almasys' a bit smugly. He hadn't learned just a simple trick; he learned how to manipulate the field to his advantage. And right now he needed a water advantage.

"Ah, well would ya look at that." Byron commended with a nod. "BUT, it will do you little good! Steelix, charge right in it! Iron tail!" the glowing tail came down for the water, and Tensai knew any damage would be minimized from the partially defensive steel-move. "Dodge it!" Seaking disappeared under the water just as the tail smacked down and water rose up everywhere.

[Rikugurl]

Blue eyes glanced over to where the human pointed, seeing her son's little rear all shaven and shivering. Oh....OH! She suddenly glared at the blonde, growling to show her protest. How could he do something like that to her baby!? It was a good thing she came to stop--- It was then that Roxas explained why. It still went over her head, looking away in denial. That wasn't good enough for...
There was a window, showing the backyard and a part of the Haven. It wasn't there before when the center was first made but when Roxas and Axel realized that they would be back here more than they thought, they installed one so they could keep an eye on their kids.

What the mother saw was... a field full of Pokemon. Some were very happy, romping around and playing in the dirt while others hobbled, chasing a ball. Some were still seclusive, sitting in their shelter of the sort and watching the others do their thing. Some Pokemon had bandages, others with splints and casts.
This really was a place for sick and injured pokemon...
Slowly, her fake blonde hair shifted as she looked back at the real Roxas before her darkened eyes looked down at her frightened baby. "Just relax... Mama will not let him hurt you..."


"That sounds great." Sirocco smiled at his son before allowing his eldest boy to bring him to the couch. He sat down but his lap was quickly full of yellow when Jolteon jumped back up. "Ah, it's good to see you again." He pat the electric dog, hearing Riku leave the room, stating that he would go make some tea. Old eyes looked at his son, seeming happy for his company. "You know Sora, I'm not getting any younger. Sooner or later... I won't be able to live on my own. Kirlia really does a lot to help me but I am having more difficulty in doing things than housework." He gave a sigh, feeling the slow breaths of the dog on his lap. "I was hoping your mother and I would be able to grow old together and help each other out but... I am very lonely and Ledon only comes around in the morning to help me out of bed."

Ledon was the neighborhood next door. She was actually a retired Nurse Joy.


"WHOA! How awesome!" Roxel exclaimed as he saw the fish rise into the air with the water then saw it splash all over the arena. What a powerful move! Gunnar just rolled his eyes, leaning back in his seat as he watched the battle continue. Maybe this kid wasn't as lame as his friend. There was always one strong one in the group. His eyes slowly rolled to look at this said group, sizing up his rivals. Any friends of those twits were an enemy of his.

His eyes did land on one of the members, sitting next to Barrettes. "Hmm... she's kinda hot." He had seen her on Tv a few times when he had the chance to even watch.

[Reno]

Zorua gave a secretive little grin as he heard his mother growl at Roxas, knowing if he played his poke-chips right he might be able to get out of this whole thing altogether! At least, that's what he was thinking he'd get away with...

Until his mother was soothing him. Wait what?!

"But Maaaa!" The young fox whined but sighed as the inevitable happened.
"Don't worry, it's only for a little while," Roxas did his best to reassure, but the fox's ears twitched in annoyance.
"You try having something shoved up there and see how you like it!"

Roxas' eyes widened and he faltered some, almost dropping the thermometer in his shock. His cheeks went bright red and he decided not to correct the little fox and let him know he knew EXACTLY how it felt.
He just took a breath and went about his job.
"Zooor..." Came the annoyed whine, the kit hiding his eyes behind tiny paws. How mortifying...

But Roxas kept his promise. After a minute the thermometer was pulled out. "See you did great." He encouraged, petting the fox gently before glancing at the reading. He hummed in displeasure and set it in a small can filled with water mixed with chemicals to sanitize it. "It's still high." He explained at her worried glance. "A canine's temperature needs to be between 100 and a 102... your child is at 105. It's better then it was though." He told her with a smile. "We just need to make sure it doesn't go up again."

The next thing he fetched was a stethoscope stringing it around his neck and placing in the ear pieces. He blew hot air on the cold metal end of it, explaining as he did, "This is a tool we use to listen to another creature's heartbeat and breathing." Seeming fairly harmless, she let him work, watching as he gently lifted Zorua to his feet and laid the metal carefully to the fox's underbelly and chest, being careful not to press down and cause unnecessary pain.

As he did he explained to the other, "Pneumonia, what your son has, it is a sickness that concentrates it's infection in the lungs. It can be painful and fills the lungs with fluid. That is why he has trouble breathing sometimes. The more severe the sickness is, the more dangerous it becomes. If it gets really bad and his lungs fill too much... he won't be able to breathe." He glanced at her, their eyes meeting for a moment, trying to express the seriousness of what he meant "We need to make sure to prevent that at all costs."

"That sounds... bad..." Little Zorua murmured in silence.
The metal was taken away and Roxas smiled gently, petting his little poof on his head. "Don't worry. You're going to be fine. Your mom nor I nor anyone else here is going to let anything bad happen to you. But now you see why you need the shots?"
"I hate the shots..." The fox sighed.


"Joool~" Jolteon said softly as he laid along the old man's lap, humming in appreciation of the petting. He shut his eyes and just let himself be pampered even as the conversation turned a little serious.
Sora lent back into the cushions listening to his father, frowning a bit when he mentioned his mother. Even to this day... Bryna was a sensitive subject with the brunette. He had just never gotten over never making it to her bedside on her last days on earth.

"So...?" The brunette asked curiously, trying to figure out what he meant by all this even though he was pretty sure he understood. "You wanna... move in with us or something?"


Beside him, Lucina rolled her eyes and flicked her brother on the forehead. "Stay focused!"
The battle turned out to be a short one. Seaking was well adapted to his new watery home and was able to easily dodge any and every attack the land Pokemon threw at him. Meanwhile, thanks to his newfound hiding places, it was easy for his master to call out counter attacks that hit the trapped Pokemon, concentrated mostly on using waterfall and water pulse to bash the Pokemon down.

Byron was quick to see what a disadvantage his immovable Pokemon was at and wisely decided to recall him. Unfortunately, that meant he was down his second Pokemon. But he seemed worried none over the loss. "Ah, not bad I must say... but it ends here for you challenger. Come now, Bastiodon!"

The third Pokemon to hit the field was a bulldozer Pokemon, his head incredibly large and square and the body behind him somewhat like a triceratops, bumps bursting from the creature's back. But he was still weak against water and Tensai knew to use that advantage.
"Napoleon, you've got the advantage! Use water pulse!"
"SeaaKING!" The creature called, bursting from the water and from his mouth a powerful blast of water flew for the steel type.
"Stand your ground! Iron defense Bastiodon!"
The dinosaur stood strong, his body glowing white as the attack hit. "Baaas!" He didn't even move back an inch!
"Now, flash cannon!"
"Get out of their Napoleon!"
The fish was quick to duck under the water as the powerful white beam flew overhead, swimming to the right.
The next few turns were something quite similar, Tensai calling a water attack for it to hit but seem to not faze the Pokemon as he rose his defense and then attacked again with flash Cannon.
"What are you doing?" Tensai demanded after the third rendition of these things, seeing the Bastiodon pant some. "You're just tiring him out!"
Byron smirked, "Ah, but I got your Pokemon right where I wanted him to be."
"Wha..." Tensai looked to the field. "N-No way!"

Seaking turned one way and stopped at a wall. He turned the other way and faced yet another wall. "Sea? Sea? Seaa?!" The flash cannons had made the land, weakened by Steelix's attacks, collapse, trapping him in his own pool!
"Iron Head Bastiodon!"
"Basss!" The Pokemon glowed white and charged forward... right into the water! The seaking was given a nasty surprise as an unwelcome visitor was suddenly right against him. The head tossed and smacked into the goldfish hard.

"SEAAAAAAAAA!" Suddenly, bursting from the water, Napoleon came flying out and high into the air, flailing the best way a fish could. Tensai grit his teeth as he reached for the Pokeball on his belt. "Napoleon, Aqua Ring!"
Black eyes closed as he came flying back towards the ground, but the severely weakened fish managed to complete his master's last order, rings of blue surrounding him. He never hit the ground before Tensai recalled him. The arena was a little silent as Bastiodon climbed out of the pool, shaking off the water like it was nothing.

"Tch... this is bad... He took everything like it didn't even effect him..." He murmured softly, Charlie looking up at him in concern.
Well... he only had one choice left; the choice Byron knew he had to make.
"Alright Pepper, let's finish the job!" The red skunk burst onto the battlefield once again, still a little weary - but perked up as blue rings surrounded her just as they had for Napoleon. It would hopefully give her a boost of strength when they got in a pinch. this battle wasn't going to be easy.

[Rikugurl]

The mother pokemon watched everything, keeping her eyes glued to the man's hands as he worked on her child. Her own fake hand rested on the baby's back, giving him some comfort and sense of protection. She listened carefully to the blonde, learning the way that would help the fox gain his strength back. Slowly... he was gaining her trust. until he said the word 'shot'.
"WHAT!? How is shooting him going to make him better?" The mother cried in rage, not believing her ears.


"No no, I could never bother you like that. You and Riku should have the place to your own. I was maybe thinking... you could help me get situated in a retired home..." The old man sighed some, not liking the idea but maybe it would be for the best.
"You could always move in with my mom. Maybe it would be nice living with a woman again." Riku slowly walked in, making sure he wouldn't spill the tea that was on a small tray. Sirocco only chuckled, shaking his head. "You know it wouldn't be the same."

A mug was handed over and the man took a sip, humming happily. "I was really hoping you boys wouldn't move so far away. None of you even live in this region." He held the mug close, enjoying the warmth. "I wonder... if it's because I was a bad father..."


"On what? This huge waste of time?" Gunnar smirked, glancing at his sister. He really didn't know that drooling over Bonnie was a big waste of time too. She was already taken but at least it would be a lot more 'interesting' to watch her still, knowing him.

"OH! COME ON TEN-CHAN!" Roxel continued to cheer even if his friend's second pokemon was down. It was a tied battle so far! Only one pokemon left for both and even if Pepper was smaller than her opponent, he knew size didn't matter.
"Torchhiiiic!" Melody flailed on her master's lap, cheering on for the sunset eyed boy too.

[Reno]

Roxas blinked seeing her over-reaction, before realizing the only type of 'shot' she would know was from the same form of weaponry that once claimed his own life in years past. He was going to correct her, but was surprised when he got help from someone very unexpected.
"No those shots Mama. These are... small... made of something shiny and glass." Little Zorua explained, though he was very sour about the whole thing. Misty eyes darted between him and her son demanding an answer quickly.

So Roxas was quick to produce the answer, fetched two unused needles, the medicine he would need, and the IV stands. "A shot is not just... a gunshot. There are also 'medical' shots." He explained, filling the two needles with their dosages, the sight making Zorua's ears lower. "Some medications are best to be injected in the bloodstream, and using needles like these, it's how we do it."
He pointed to one, then the other as he spoke, "This is steroids. It supplies strength to the body and the boosts the immune system to help it fight the infection. The other is antibiotics which prevents the infection from spreading." He pointed to the IV, "And this is just nutrient and water; basically his food and water intake to keep him hydrated and fed even if he suffers loss of appetite."


Sora frowned some, looking sad. He couldn't imagine his dad in a home! It was just unthinkable! He blinked some though when his father continued and he huffed, placing his own tea down on the table a little forcefully. "Don't say that about yourself dad!
You're a great father!"
It seemed he wasn't the only one who had trouble letting the past go. His father was about to protest but Sora just shook his head. "Daaad, you made some mistakes. I mean everyone makes mistakes. That doesn't make you a bad dad! We just... live where we do because we do and all for our own reasons. We never really considered... you'd feel left behind."


"On your fight not your dick," She grumbled right back, crossing her arms. Seriously, her dad was right! Boys DID only think of one thing! He could be learning vital information about his opponent right now!

Tensai bit his lip, hearing his friend's encouragement and nodded. He was right... this battle wasn't over yet!
"Pepper... let's start off with flamethrower!"
"Stunnn!" The little skunk called and opened her mouth a powerful torrent of flames sweeping across the arena... and it hit directly! Byron didn't even tell his Pokemon to move!
"Alright, good shot!" Tensai cheered... but as he glanced up at his opponent felt confused when he saw no look of worry on his face.

The next call was made. "Metal burst."
"Meta-wha...?" Tensai blinked in confusion but his eyes widened as a white ball formed in Bastiodon's mouth and seemed to suck in the fire! "What the.... Pepper watch out!" Suddenly the ball went flying across the stage, and the skunk cried in surprise, trying to dodge the attack but it was too late and the ball smashed into her bursting open and suddenly encasing her in her own flamethrower! The attack threw her back and across the arena. "Ah, Pepper!"
The skunk on the dirt shaking a bit before getting to her feet slowly, shaking off the pain. He never even... what had that been? Something like mirror coat...?

[Rikugurl]

The mother watched again closely, listening to Roxas explain everything he did. A frown ran over pale lips before she suddenly flashed blue again and like a scanner, it ran down her, revealing her real form. This seemed to make the fox become settled and did the opposite for the human. Her narrow eyes saw the blonde shift his weight, lowering her head. "And this will all benefit my son?"

Before Roxas could answer, there suddenly whistling coming from the hallway. A loud growl filled the mother's throat, her glowing aqua eyes landing at the door. Her muscles flexed, her adrenaline spiking. This was a trap! She should of know! How could she make this mistake twi---
"Hey Roxa.......as." A tall redhead froze, seeing the mother looking right at him. He had only seen the baby on the table when he walked down the hallway, figuring it was just the routine check up. W-why was the mother out?


Riku frowned, listening to the conversation. It made him think... of his own mom. He had always been worried that she would be lonely when he moved to Mirage Island with Sora but she didn't seem too effected by it. As long as she got messages, she would be alright. Even when they came back to the continent, she stated the same thing but seemed extremely happy when they brought Tensai around to visit. He knew that she was lonely but didn't want to say anything and could see the same look in his father-in-law's face.

"I didn't expect you to, Sora." The man gave his son a smile before patting his lap. "You all have very for filling lives with children and worries of your own. I am happy for you all and I'm glad you are all happy as well. I wish I could just sit here all day with a large screen in my face and watch you all."
"Kirr..." The emotion Pokemon walked into the room, looking at them all talking. This caught Sirocco's attention, giving her a soft smile. "Besides... Kirlia deserves a better trainer. She hasn't danced for a year now because of my decreasing health." Slowly, he looked up at his son again. "If anything, Sora... please, help me find a good home for her where she can dance everyday."


"HAHAHAAHAHA!! Where you TRYING to lose that badly! I didn't tell you to hurry it up!" Gunnar laughed as he saw the fallen skunk, hearing his sister laugh next to him.
"Ut! No!" Roxel was the first the gasp, getting off the bleacher to race over to his best friend's side. Torchic was quick to follow, hopping and struggling up the stairs. "Ten-chan..." He placed his hand down on the black haired boy's shoulder, seeing him recall the red pokemon. "It's alright..."