I felt a hand on my shoulder, gently shaking me until I finally woke up. Although it's usually Lexie that does it, that wasn't the case now.
"Mewtwo? What's going on?" I asked quietly, as to not wake up Melanie.
"Couldn't sleep, sorry." He said.
"Is it because of-"
"It is. Could we take this upstairs?" He asked. "I don't want to wake the girls up."
"Sure." I carefully got myself out of Melanie's arms, and gave her a soft kiss on the forehead before I got up, then started for the roof. I got up and started outside. I was wearing my pajamas, as Melanie and I hadn't gotten intimate the night before. Mewtwo and I quietly stepped into the hallway.
"Think Kaorah's going to get suspicious?" Mewtwo asked me as I shut the door as gently as possible.
"Knowing her, probably. But she's the alpha, so, it's her right to wonder what's going on." I said.
"Somewhat ironic, since we know for sure that I'm the stronger one, but she has known you for the longest out of all of us. You did grow up together, after all."
"That's true, so she's able to tell if I'm acting out of character, better than anyone else." Our conversation faded to silence as we walked to the roof. The door swung open on its own as we approached, although it was likely Mewtwo's telekinesis that did it.
The rooftop was damp, and the smell of salt water reached us as soon as the door opened. The roof being damp was due to a little bit of rain overnight, but nothing big.
"Can't remember the last time I smelled the ocean." I said.
"It really has been a long time, hasn't it?" Mewtwo asked. I felt him grab one of my hands, and I softly squeezed in return.
"Yeah, it has. So, you wanted to come up here to talk, I guess. Care to tell me what's going on?" I asked. While I was talking, I found us a spot to sit down. Mewtwo dried the bench with his powers, using the air to do it.
"It's…" he sighed, "a long story. And until you came along, I didn't think anyone would ever be around to hear it." He stood up again, and walked over to the northeastern corner. Then, he pointed to the overgrown mansion. I got up and walked over.
"There it is. That's…that's where I was born. And, I'm reasonably sure, she was, too." He said. "Now though, I'm not even sure who came first. Was it me? Or was it her?"
"Libra?"
"Yeah. Of course, it…it wasn't just us." I saw it, the little glint that slid down his face. I felt him grab my hand, then our vision blurred. We found ourselves inside the mansion, moments after. And the place looked…awful. Fire damage and broken objects scattered about. It looks as though people had been in and out frequently, likely thieves trying to salvage valuables.
Mewtwo walked over to what was left of a table, mindful of broken glass, and picked something up. It looked to be a picture frame, but in quite bad shape. The picture inside wasn't much better, but I could still see the little girl, smiling and happy.
"That's-"
"Amber." I wrapped an arm around Mewtwo, and felt him lean over against me. "She…she didn't make it, not like we did. We had spent…a lot of time, with her. In a shared mindscape, I mean." Mewtwo sniffed. "I…don't remember what happened, between…between Amber fading away, and…waking up in that cell with the collar on."
"You think they made sure you didn't wake up for some reason? Or…something else happened? Something to do with your powers, maybe?" I asked.
"I…I don't know. You don't think I went-"
"Oh, no, I'm sure it wasn't that bad. Hopefully. Think we might be able to find records in here of what may have happened?"
"Perhaps, but…I don't feel comfortable messing around here." I felt Mewtwo's right arm shift. "It's already hard enough just coming back to Cinnabar." He sighed. "We should just…get the gym battle over with, and move on. I don't want to stay here."
"I know you don't, but we…do still need to wait for Ash and the others. If it's hard for you, we can wait for them in Viridian. Or even back home, in Pallet." I said. Course, I'd have to let Ash know where we would be, so that his group could find us before heading to Viridian. I felt the world blur as we returned to the Pokemon Center roof. I found myself wrapped up in an embrace, one which I silently returned.
It was still night, about 02:00 hours. Melanie and I went to bed earlier than usual, as the whole team was planning on training for a few days, starting tomorrow morning at the earliest. That's why we hadn't gotten intimate tonight. But because I'd gone to bed early, I wouldn't be getting back to sleep, anyway.
"Do you need me to stay with you?" I broke the silence.
"Huh?" Under the silvery light of a full moon, it was a bit harder to see the blush that appeared, but it was there.
"Just for our stay here in Cinnabar, if it will help you sleep." I said quietly.
"Are…you sure?" He asked.
"Yeah, if it'll help you sleep. You need your rest for training, after all." I said.
"If…if you're offering…sure." He released me from his arms. "Let's…let's go." He started to go back downstairs. "And, Zeryph…thanks, for…for being there. If I had never met you, I…I don't know what would've happened."
"Nothing good, I'm sure." I caught up with him, and he reached for my hand as always. "Come on, let's get you to bed." We walked back in silence, and quietly returned to the room. Cerise had gotten up while we were gone, but wasn't making any noise, as to not wake the others.
"Hey Cerise." I said quietly.
"Hey. I noticed he was gone, started to wonder what was going on. Is everything OK?" Cerise asked.
"I think I'll be fine now. Thanks for asking though." Mewtwo smiled, softly.
"Good. I think I'm going to go out for a bit. When do you think I should come back?" Cerise asked me.
"Whenever you'd like, or whenever Lexie heads out for her morning run. Whichever works for you." I said. We had adjusted our sleeping arrangements, so that Solais could be in whichever room I was in, in case of weather. As a result, Cerise now took her former spot, next to Mewtwo. Just another reminder I need to figure out a proper home setup, so we don't have to crowd two rooms like this.
I helped Cerise open the door so she could leave, then I quietly walked over to the bed and started to lay down. I heard the soft click from the door locking. And it wasn't long before I felt myself wrapped up in Mewtwo's arms.
"If this makes you uncomfortable, I can-"
"No, no, It's OK." I quietly interrupted him. "If it helps you get comfortable." I smiled. "Go ahead, get some sleep. I'll see you in the morning." I gave him a small kiss on the forehead.
It didn't take too long to finally fall asleep, his breathing steadily growing softer, but there was a small, genuine smile, on his face. I quietly pulled up the system information and began to go through the things that I had.
Firstly, those tokens I got a while back, that I still haven't used. Since I've got nothing else to do, might as well do these, then work on some training plans. Let's see what they can potentially give, first. I brought up the Gacha System itself, and the amount of rewards is…well, there's a lot.
From small stuff such as money and healing items, to some really, really exotic stuff. The first token disappeared from my inventory as it was used to start a spin. The reward that appeared in its place, was stuff for Aura training. Although Mewtwo could use it, it wasn't much good without a Lucario. Still, I'll keep it for later, as I do intend to get one.
The second spin dispensed a full pack of medical stuff, potions and other healing items. Including some things I didn't already have, mostly for status effects. The surprising thing in the bunch was a bag of Sacred Ash. Which, I don't think I really have to say, is extremely valuable. As, it can resurrect someone should they be…deceased, in battle. Honestly, I planned to seek out Ho-oh, in order to acquire some. But, this will save me the trouble.
The third was gift cards, for some restaurants in Alola. There's also some for Unova. Guess I can take the girls on some dates in the future. Perhaps even take Mewtwo on one. I dunno. Still, it would be nice. In fact, speaking of dates, I think I've got someone I'd like to take out. Guess training can wait for a little while longer.
[Break]
After a few hours, I gently extracted myself from Mewtwo's embrace, and left him with a kiss on the forehead. I quietly got up and went across to the other room, where Lexie was just about to leave.
"Good morning Lexie." I said.
"Hey. Where did you disappear to?" She asked.
"Mewtwo couldn't sleep. I decided to lay with him, so he could." I told her.
"That's sweet. Is he asleep now?" She asked.
"He is. Shall we go get some exercise?" I asked in return.
"Sure thing." We went outside, and then began to go through warming up before starting our run. We went until the sun was up, as we usually did, but before we started to go back inside, I stopped her.
"What's up?"
"Remember those tokens I got a while back?"
"Uh-huh."
"Well, I used those last night, and one of the things I got, was a set of gift cards. They're for some restaurants in Alola, and Unova."
"Are you asking me out?" Lexie asked.
"Well, you figured that one out pretty quickly." I said.
"Of course I did. It's about time you asked. But we can do more than just go eat somewhere." I guess Lexie will come up with things for us to do, as well. I think I've already got a plan in mind though. "We can't go out like this, of course. We're all sweaty."
"Yeah, shower first, then we'll figure something out. Which would you rather do?"
"Unova. You took Melanie to Alola, so it makes sense to change it up." Lexie said.
"Alrighty. I'll see you in a few minutes." We both went to clean up, and the others were already up by the time we got to the rooms. Lexie was out before I was, and it wasn't long until I heard her and Melanie talking about what was coming up. Mainly, focused on who asked who, and, how far Lexie was going to take things.
Course, I don't think we'll go that far. But, ya never know. I finished with cleaning up, then we all went down for breakfast. Afterwards, I informed Mewtwo as to what was going on. When Lexie and I were ready, he teleported us to the inside of one of the gates. I knew exactly which one it was, too.
Probably one of my favorite parts in Black and White. Used to stand there just to listen to the soundtrack, after all. Of course, I made absolutely sure beforehand, that there wouldn't be a problem with dating a Pokemon in Unova. Fortunately, Unova is one of the Regions where that's legal.
"Ready Lexie?" I asked.
"Yeah. Where did Mewtwo drop us at?" She asked.
"Oh, you'll see." I offered her a hand, which she took. Then, we stepped outside, onto the Skyarrow Bridge. We were on the northeastern end, looking towards Castelia City. Lexie whistled when she saw the bridge.
"Beautiful sight, isn't it?" I asked.
"Oh yeah. They don't have anything like…like this, in Galar." We started to walk across the bridge together. Crossing the Skyarrow Bridge, as previously stated, was one of my favorite parts of the Gen-5 games. Anyone who's played them can probably hear the Skyarrow Bridge theme in their head. Used to just stand on the bridge just to listen to the song.
Casteliacones should be in season, too. Looking forward to getting one, if they are. The sound of cars and trucks passing below meant that the walk wasn't entirely quiet. And the cool night breeze was quite nice.
"Think the experience will be as good, when we come back here later?" Lexie asked.
"There's a long time between then and now. You probably won't remember crossing it by then." I said.
"Hm, maybe. We'll just have to see, won't we?"
"I guess so."
"Would you have brought Melanie here?"
"Probably, yeah. But Alola worked just as well, anyway."
"Yeah. Still, the view from up here is great." She stopped and turned to look out at the ocean to the south. Considering the time over in Kanto, it was early into the night here. Which means, Castelia City was lit up, nice and bright. I never was a city person, lived in a country house. Which means that, for me, city lights were a rare sight.
And, although there was light pollution to consider, the night sky is still very pretty. And being up on the Skyarrow Bridge makes the view so much better. Thinking about it now, I bet Melanie would love to get to see this in person. Of course, I've got something in mind that might actually beat crossing the bridge at night.
"Hey, look. To the east." Lexie pointed, and above the eastern horizon, the moon had begun to rise. Casting a soft, bluish-white light on the bridge, and reflecting nicely off the water below.
Lexie wrapped an arm around me, and I did the same in return. Even if the Casteliacone shop ends up closing before we get there, this just means we don't really have to worry about it. Still, I brought up the idea, and Lexie agreed. We started to head that way, and we went back to holding hands.
"How long do you plan to spend on this?" Lexie asked as we neared the southwestern gate.
"As long as we feel like staying." I said in return. "All night, even. Provided there's places that stay open late. If not, then that's no problem. I can see if I could potentially use some trickery with the Dungeon systems to create something else."
"Nah, it wouldn't feel natural enough."
"Fair point." Even at night, Castelia City was a busy place. Yet, none of the night crowd paid us any mind. They'd likely seen it more than enough, anyway. Fortunately, the Casteliacone stand was open late, as well. I bought two of them, one for each of us, then we sat down on a nearby bench.
We took our time, enjoying the frozen treats. Lexie had to be careful with hers, and couldn't take as much time as I did. Being a Fire-Type made her immune to getting a brain freeze. However, her higher body temperature meant her Casteliacone would've melted faster than mine would.
The fact that we're here at night, definitely helps. Since, currently, it's not hot out. Not here, anyway. Can't really say the same for Kanto. When we finished our treats, we got up and started to walk around Castelia for a little bit. Since most of the buildings were closed for the night, we instead focused on the park. Island tours weren't going on, especially for Liberty Garden.
That, is something worth keeping in mind for later. Befriending Victini is definitely worth doing, especially if it has any effect on my attributes. And on the note of Unova Pokemon, Genesect is another one to keep in mind. In fact, Genesect is one I planned on recruiting from the start. Can't do that just yet, of course. And I'm not likely to have the same luck as with Mewtwo.
As Lexie and I eventually passed through the North Gate, I started to sense something. Unusual, I know, but I have noticed that my senses do act up whenever Legendaries or Mythicals are near. And, in this case, it was right. It seems that our unexpected arrival, has drawn a certain quartet to our location.
Four Pokemon, three males and a female, who quickly surrounded us. Despite how powerful they were, they made no attempt to threaten us. Instead, they just wanted our attention.
"Human. If it isn't too much trouble, we would like a word." Their leader said.
[Cobalion]
[Level 50]
[Justified]
[Terrakion]
[Level 50]
[Justified]
[Virizion]
[Level 50]
[Justified]
[Keldeo]
[Level 40]
[Ordinary Form]
[Justified]
It makes sense that Keldeo's level is lower than the rest. I'm surprised to see that he's already with them, as well. But then again, he is meant to be their fourth member. I believe this makes them one of the only two quartets, the other being the genies.
"Well, this is certainly a surprise." I signaled for Lexie to relax, we're not in any danger. The Swords of Justice wouldn't randomly attack a Trainer, unless of course, the person was evil. "Let's have that talk, but…somewhere a little less unpleasant." I started to gather magic into my right hand.
"Is that…Aura?" Keldeo asked.
"No, this, is something else. Watch." I cast the spell, and with a quiet pop, a portal flared to life. I then bowed and motioned towards the portal. "Please, right this way. Ladies first."
"Whoa…cooool. Wish I could do that." Keldeo's comment made me smile.
"Such a gentleman, you are." Virizion said. She was the second one through, after Lexie. "That young lady you were with, must think so, too."
"Had I known I would be meeting you all, I would've had my team on standby." This is just another case of something special happening…out of the blue. Just like with Arceus, or getting Mewtwo from Giovanni. Perhaps I've got the same thing Ash did, where the craziest things happen around him, specifically.
After Virizion passed through the portal, the others did the same, although there was some hesitation from them. But only for a moment, and I can understand, as they've never seen such a thing before. On the other side was just a recreation of a Pokemon Center foyer, in the Kanto style. Unlike the world outside, it was daylight in here.
"So, the Chosen of Arceus reveals himself in Unova. I must say, you're much earlier than we thought." Terrakion was the first to say anything. Also, 'Chosen of Arceus' huh? That's certainly a new one, but I'm honestly not surprised, either. After all, who else would meet Arceus and have a conversation? Granted, it was in my mind while I was asleep, not in person, but still.
"That's a new one. Not the first moniker I've heard in this journey, either." I said.
"Oh, really?" That was from Virizion.
"Yeah. There was a big storm that went through Kanto, made a mess of things in Fuchsia city. My Gardevoir basically took over the medical work, and although it was very exhausting, and quite stressful, she still managed to heal a lot of injured people in a much shorter time. Which meant, we were able to start cleanup faster." I said. "As a result, people now call her the "Lady with the golden hands." I said.
"It's true, every word." Lexie added. "I didn't earn anything myself, apart from some complements about my cooking."
"You cook for the team now, and you're certainly better than I am." I told her. "Back on track, what brought you all out to meet me, anyways?"
"We noticed your arrival. Well, actually, it was just me that had seen it." Keldeo said. "A bright flash on the other end of the Skyarrow Bridge in the middle of the night, kinda hard to miss something like that."
"That's right, the rookie was on watch, tonight. Had he not seen your appearance, we wouldn't be having this meeting so early." Terrakion said.
"Well, rookie's got good eyes. Wouldn't be a bad thing to work on training, either. Teach him to pick out smaller details that others won't notice as easily." I suggested.
"That's a good idea. Although, his eyes wouldn't be much compared to a Flying-Type." Cobalion said. "Now then, what brings you to Unova at this time of night? Especially so early on."
"This pretty lady, right here." I wrapped my right arm around Lexie's waist. "I asked her out, a little while ago." I don't see any reason to keep that secret, at least as far as these four go. The Swords of Justice are four members of Pokemon, on the list of folks who would have my trust right away.
"I see. Although, as you were…holding hands, as I believe some humans call it, that should've been obvious from the start." Cobalion said.
"It's not the first time I went across the world for a date. Last time, it was to Alola." And you all know how that one ended.
"If I were to guess, you were heading to Nimbasa City next, right?" Virizion asked.
"That's right."
"Would you mind if we accompanied you? At least until you reach the gate." Virizion said.
"If Lexie's fine with it, sure." I said.
"It's alright. So long as we aren't going to have any other interruptions." Lexie said.
"I assure you, madam, we will not interrupt your night again. For any reason short of an emergency." Terrakion said. The others agreed with a nod, so there wasn't any need for them to say anything else.
"Then we have an agreement." I opened our exit portal. "To Nimbasa City." The portal closed behind us, once we had left the dungeon I made.
"So…that portal thing. Is there any way I could learn that?" Keldeo asked, as we started to walk.
"Sorry, Keldeo, but it's not something I can teach. Unlike the healing magic that myself and my Gardevoir use, Dungeon portals can't be passed on." Unless the System has a way for me to name a Player Two, but I highly doubt that. And even if there was, it would be specifically reserved for Ash, and nobody else. Except for the unlikely case where someone proves they're worthy as a choice.
"Aww…well, I was hoping there was. What about the other magic though?" He asked.
"Depending on the element, it can be easier or harder. I've seen him and Melanie, our Gardevoir, train with magic. Zeryph's isn't as powerful as Melanie's is, though." Lexie said.
"That's only because I rarely use it myself. I'd rather help Melanie go through the tomes we get." I added. Of course, we haven't gotten any in a while now. And, I find myself wondering if we'll ever get any staves, or perhaps, learn how to use something else to focus it. Much like how a Braixen or a Delphox would use sticks for wands.
Wand-less magic is powerful, and there are some kinds that do better by hand, but some spells are more powerful with a smaller point of focus. A spell like Lightning Storm, for example, is better by hand, but something that needs more precision would do better from a wand or a staff.
"You could learn to use magic related to water, but I don't have anything for that element. That's not even mentioning the time it would take for you to pick it up, in the first place." I said.
"I could join your team, maybe. Learn how to use it that way, from you and from your Gardevoir." Keldeo said.
"It's a bit early in our journey for you to join us, sorry bud." I said. "However, there is another way for you to train with us. Through summoning." Summoning is an idea I've had in mind for a while now, but never really brought up. Since the Legendaries, and Mythicals, often have things they're busy with depending on their regions.
Basically, the idea I had is sort of like how I contact Giratina. Through the use of magic, and some summoning contracts, I would gain the ability to summon them directly into a Dungeon. If the Dungeon System is able to pull ones like Darkrai or Zeraora in and set them up as boss fights, then I don't see any reason why I couldn't learn how to, myself.
This would greatly benefit our training, for sure. With each of the Legendaries and Mythicals having their own things that could greatly benefit our training in different areas. For example, Zapdos or Raikou being able to help Melanie with her lightning affinity itself. Although they can't use magic like she can, they could still help her in elemental training.
Or Kaorah learning how to better use the ground around her in battle, from Groudon. Of course, messing with such powerful things likely has a cost that's dependant on who we want to summon. Such as proving we're worthy of learning from them, in battle. Or proving our worth through other means. Being known as the Chosen of Arceus is already going to get me some points.
"Summoning?" Cobalion sounded interested, himself.
"That's right. What would be done is, we would create a means through which I could summon each of you, or all four at once, into a Dungeon portal. Through summoning, you would be able to train with us, or even help us out in battle if we got into a tough spot." I said.
"Of course, you don't have to heed a summon if you're busy with an emergency or something like that. In return, you would gain the right to summon me if the situation called for it." Such as Team Plasma causing trouble, but I haven't seen any signs of them at all. Not even any signs of the Shadow Triad watching us. Although, it's not time for Unova yet, so they're likely locked off for now.
"We may have to discuss this at a later date. We're almost to Nimbasa City." I said.
"So it would seem. Chosen of Arceus, it was an honor to meet you in person." Cobalion offered his front right hoof. I grasped it with my right hand, and we shook. "We shall be taking our leave. May your date be a pleasant one." The other three followed their leader's example.
"And may you all have a nice night, as well." I said. "It was nice to meet you all." Lexie and I stood by the gate as the four made their departure.
"Well, that…certainly makes my date more unique than Melanie's. What's next, you take someone to Hoenn and Rayquaza gets involved, somehow?" Lexie asked.
"Knowing how things have been going around us, so far? That's a very real possibility." I said.
"You know what, you're right. Somehow, that absolutely would happen." Lexie said.
"Did things ever happen unexpectedly like that, with Gloria?" I asked.
"Honestly? No. Nothing like what's happened with you, so far. I feel like if I went back, it would be too boring, compared to all this." Lexie said. "Plus, I wouldn't be having a date with my Trainer. Or with anyone, really."
"Why's that?" I asked, as we were entering Nimbasa City itself. I already had in mind where we were going, as we took a right immediately. We were going to the big Ferris Wheel.
"Well, although my teammates were good friends of mine, nobody really clicked, if you get my meaning." I nodded in understanding. "The only bond that was any stronger, was my brother."
"You have a brother?"
"Yeah, his name is Jack. Gloria's starter. He didn't have Libero when he hatched, like I did. Gloria got him an item later on to give it to him, when she started taking us through EV training." Lexie said.
"And what about Jack, think he would fit in?" I asked.
"Oh, for sure. If he were to be brought along, I would honestly suggest that he join your cousin's team." I paid for the Ferris Wheel in the station, and we stepped into the waiting car. As it was night time, nobody else was riding, so it was just us. In my first life, my fear of heights meant that I never went on a Ferris Wheel. Save for some very rare occasions.
I definitely haven't been on one where you have to stand up, that's for sure.
"He'd do great on the kiddo's team. Would really give Ash an edge in battle, unlike what he currently has access to." I said.
"For sure, he would." Lexie leaned against my side and laid her head on my shoulder. "I think you two would also get along pretty well. Guy has a talent for befriending others. Sorta like you, actually."
"We would have to see, but I don't know if we'll get the chance. Maybe the Dungeon might pull him at random as a boss." I said quietly.
"If it does, I've got dibs on that battle." Lexie said.
"Sibling rivalry, huh? I know what that's like. From my first life, of course." I said.
"Yeah, though, ours was exercised best through training. We often did spars whenever we weren't in tournament battles." Lexie said. I wrapped my right arm around her waist, and I felt her left arm wrap around my waist, in return. We let our conversation fade, in favor of enjoying the ride we were on.
"Gonna be honest, this one…isn't really much compared to the wheel in Wyndon." Lexie broke the silence as we were almost at the apex. It was still a fantastic view of the city lights below, with Castelia in the distance to the south. The lights from the Skyarrow Bridge were also visible from here.
I felt Lexie slowly reach up to wrap her arm around my neck, and the gentle pull to shift the position into an embrace. One which I returned with a single arm, much like what I do with Melanie. This was about as far as she got before she stopped. She rested her head against my chest, and I can tell she's thinking about something.
"Feeling OK?" Our motion had halted, part of an automatic procedure to let us enjoy the view for a short time, before we begin to descend.
"Just…wondering if I've got the nerve." I think I know what she's thinking.
"I'm sure you do, somewhere in there. Just keep this in mind, you miss a hundred percent of the shots you don't take." I said quietly. It took her several seconds, but she eventually decided. Reaching up to put her hands on my shoulders, in order to pull herself up enough to reach.
We connected, sharing a soft kiss that lasted for a short while. It was very different to what I've experienced previously. Lexie's lips, since she's a Fire-Type, were much warmer than Melanie's. But nowhere near the point of burning. It was more of a pleasant warmth, one that's very nice on a cool night.
We separated, when Lexie needed air. Her cheeks reddened, but she was smiling. A smile which I gladly returned. She pressed her head against my chest again, as the wheel began to turn. We had started our descent.
"Love you, Zeryph." She mumbled. It was barely audible, as it had been muffled, but I still caught it.
"Love you too, Lexie." We continued to hold our embrace, until the wheel stopped. We stepped off, hand in hand, and found Mewtwo waiting for us just outside.
"Did you two have a good time?" He asked. Lexie's blush returned.
"Y-yes…yes we did." She smiled. "Was one awesome date. I think we're ready to head back to Kanto, now." Lexie said. We'd actually been out for a few hours. Based on local time, it would be about time for lunch back home. "How much…did you see?"
"None. Your privacy isn't something to be invaded." Mewtwo said. "Although, I can't say that you didn't have a witness." Footsteps behind us drew our attention. A man with a green, long sleeved shirt. A pair of pants with a green-red-black striped pattern, red and green shoes, and a red scarf, appeared from the station. There was a butterfly-shaped clip on his belt. How did I not notice him--never mind. I was focused on my date, not my surroundings.
"Bravo. What a beautiful show that was." The man said. "Perfect for a splash of artistic inspiration."
"I…I uh…" Lexie started.
"It's OK, Lexie. I didn't know, either." I interrupted what she was going to say, if anything. "So, Gym leader from Castelia, when did you catch up with us?" I asked.
"I saw you both as you entered through the south gate." He said. "I must say, love is great for inspiration. Of course, I'm not going to go and put such a thing in my gallery. Wouldn't want it affecting you outside of Unova." The man chuckled. "Oh, I believe I'm forgetting. I'm Burgh, and you already know where I'm from.
"Zeryph, from Pallet Town." We shook hands.
"You're a long way from home. Of course, you don't need to say why you're here. I completely understand." He fetched something from his right pocket. "Oh, and, here. I thought you might like this." What he handed us was a very well done drawing, of this date's biggest highlight.
"That's amazing." I complemented the work. Although it was just a sketch, and not one of Burgh's paintings, it was still really well done. "Thank you."
"No need to pay me for it. Simply frame it and keep it, as it's your memory." He smiled. "I really must be going now." Burgh started to leave. "And, I look forward to your challenge, one day." He said. Not long after, Mewtwo took the three of us home. Lexie and I both flinched at the sudden bright light, but our eyes adjusted pretty quickly.
"Hey, you three. Welcome back." Melanie was waiting for us. "How was your date?"
"Oh, it was…wonderful. There was a couple…unexpected things, but other than that, it was great." Lexie answered.
"Are you two gonna-"
"Oh, goodness no. I'm not ready for that, yet." Lexie blushed. "But…I did work up some courage, though. Zeryph, show her."
"You sure?"
"Well, why not? Your next date with her should have something to top, after all." Lexie said.
"Oh, what's this now?" I took the picture out and handed it to Melanie. She smiled when she saw it. "Aww…that's adorable." Lexie's blush returned, once more. "When did this happen?"
"On the Ferris Wheel in Nimbasa." I said. "We had a tail, who just happened to see the moment. And he captured it in that drawing."
"Wish he would've had time to color it. This is really good. What was his name?" Melanie asked, as she handed the picture back.
"Burgh, as in, Castelia City's gym leader." I said.
"Wow. I've seen some of his paintings, have always wanted to visit the gallery in person. Maybe you should take me, next time we go out." Melanie said.
"Sure. There's also the other occurrence." I said.
"Other occurrence?"
"Yeah, we met some other Pokemon. Zeryph definitely didn't plan on it, but our meeting was pleasant, regardless." Lexie said. "The Swords of Justice, in case you're wondering. They're all nice folks."
"Hm. Sounds like you both really did have a great time out. Did you tell him the magic words?" Melanie asked.
"Yes, I did. Right after, well, you already saw." Lexie said.
"Great. Of course, you know we've gotta go tell the other girls now." Melanie said.
"Yeah, yeah. I know." Lexie's stomach abruptly growled. And mine did as well. The sudden interruption got laughs out of all of us. "We'll talk over lunch. I'll get started, right away." Melanie left to round up the others, while Lexie and I started to prepare for a small cookout.
I stashed the picture Burgh gave us, away in my inventory, so it would be safe. Maybe in the future, I'll get one that's properly colored. Or, perhaps, color it myself. It's been a while since I last did anything related to art, of course.
I smiled, and started to set out stuff for some burgers, making sure to put out some extras, in case we drew a crowd. I wouldn't be too surprised if we did. After all, Lexie's cooking smells just as delicious as it actually is. And, after we finish lunch, and get a little rest, it'll be time to start some training.