Chapter Text
Kuri bounced on the balls of her feet, eagerly waiting for the caravan to get ready. It had been about a month and a half since she had calmed Electrode and after lots of hard work, it had finally happened. Kuri was finally qualified to go to the Alabaster Icelands. She was so excited that Rei swore she was going to burst.
A brand new place to explore, brand new Pokemon to catch, what’s not to be excited about? Plus, she could finally visit the Pearl Settlement and Ingo’s actual home! She could finally visit him rather than wait for him to come to Jubilife Village! She couldn’t wait!
Professor Laventon bundled her up in some warm clothes and soon the caravan was off.
Ingo was waiting when Kuri finally made it to the Pearl Settlement, diving down on the Noble Braviary. She had already gotten Sabi’s permission; he didn’t expect anything less. “How are the Icelands treating you?” Ingo asked as they walked through the settlement.
“Freezing, but all the Pokemon here are amazing!” Kuri gushed. “There are so many ice types; I’ve never been happier to have Charcoal with me!”
Ingo nodded, “And how about Lord Avalugg?”
“I already got the food he likes,” Kuri said. “Warden Gaeric’s making the balms right now; he says I’ll need a lot of them.”
“You will,” Ingo nodded. “Lord Avalugg is much bigger than the others.”
Kuri frowned, “The ones I’ve caught here aren’t THAT big.”
“You will see,” Ingo said. “I certainly hope it doesn’t come to having to use them though.”
“Warden Gaeric said that Avalugg hasn’t been hurting anyone,” Kuri admitted. “I guess I’ll just have to wait and meet him to see.” She smiled. “When I’m done, I can show you all the new Pokedex entries I’ve made!”
“That sounds wonderful,” Ingo nodded. “I’ll look forward to it.” After that, Kuri left on Wyrdeer, and Ingo retreated to his hut to escape the cold. A few hours passed with no consequence; that was something you got used to in the Icelands. When he stepped outside, he heard the happy chatter of the villagers, talking about how the survey corp girl was helping them. Ingo smiled; that seemed to be Kuri’s trademark. She always went out of her way to help those in need.
According to Professor Laventon, more and more Pokemon were becoming integrated in Jubilife Village ever since Kuri arrived. Kuri was always eager to help; hopefully, that wouldn’t come back to bite her. He was snapped out of his thoughts when a loud roar pierced the air. Ingo stepped outside along with half of the clan and another roar was heard; it was coming from the arena! Avalugg was frenzied! Ingo felt his heartbeat spike as fear began to take hold. Surely it wouldn’t hurt to go and check on her; safety first, after all!
Ingo left his abode and quickly made his way to where Avalugg resided. As Ingo drew closer and closer to the arena, the ground shook more violently. He could hear Avalugg roaring in the distance, making his worry only grow. Lord Avalugg was the very definition of a gentle giant, but even he didn’t know his own strength sometimes! Ingo didn’t want to think about how dangerous he would be to approach when frenzied!
He finally reached the arena, seeing Lady Irida, Lord Adaman, and Wardens Gaeric and Sabi, all watching intently. Ingo’s heart jumped to his throat from the sight. Little Kuri was standing on a large mound of snow, facing the giant glowing Noble, dodging and running left and right on her small platform to avoid Avalugg’s relentless attacks.
His fear reached a tipping point when the girl failed to roll in time and an icicle shattered against her back. “KURI!”
The other spectators jumped at the realization that he was there but Irida quickly composed herself and put a hand on his arm. “She’ll be alright, Ingo; have faith in her.” Ingo wanted to protest, but managed to stay composed. Charging in there like an unannounced train car would just make everything worse. Kuri may be a child, but she was stronger than she looked. She would make it to her victorious destination, no doubt.
After what felt like an eternity, Kuri threw the final bag of balm at Avalugg. Everyone shielded their eyes as the light dispersed from Avalugg and the tense air seemed to vanish. Avalugg had been quelled. Ingo sucked in a breath as an exhausted Kuri swayed, stumbled, and nearly fell off the mound, but Avalugg quickly caught her on his nose. The massive Noble tenderly moved forward towards the entrance to the arena and lowered his head. Ingo quickly moved as Kuri slowly slid off Avalugg, collapsing into his arms, clutching a light blue stone plate to her chest. Avalugg had definitely put her through the wringer; she looked like a trainwreck.
“Get her back to the field camp,” Irida said, breathless.
Ingo nodded and managed to get out his flute while supporting the half-conscious and nearly frozen Kuri. Thankfully, Sneasler appeared in record-time, allowing Ingo and Kuri into her basket, Irida saying she and Adaman would meet them in Jubilife Village. Ingo held Kuri close as she shivered and curled into him and after a ‘full speed ahead’ from Ingo, Sneasler swiftly made her way to the Snowfields Camp.
Needless to say, Professor Laventon was absolutely frantic the moment he saw Ingo climb out of the basket with Kuri in his arms. Ingo was ushered into a caravan, Kuri still nestled against him, and Rei quickly appeared at their side with blankets.
Once they were a good distance away from the Icelands, a wrapped up Kuri finally stirred and opened her eyes to a relieved Ingo, Rei, and Laventon. “...Is Avalugg okay?” She asked softly. Ingo couldn’t help but smile.
He decided to spend the night in Jubilife Village after helping Kuri back home. He looked up at the rift as he headed towards the training grounds, feeling relief fill him at the sight of it looking smaller and nearly closed. It was almost over.
Kuri was jolted awake by a loud crack. She bolted upright, her heart pounding from the sudden scare. Was it storming? Kuri got up and peeked out the window, only to open it fully in shock. The sky was multiple shades of red, blue, and green; far from normal! Kuri just about threw on her clothes and stumbled out of the house, straining to see Mt. Coronet. The rift was bigger than it had ever been! What on earth happened?!
“Kuri!” Rei ran up to her.
“What’s happening?!” Kuri exclaimed.
“I…I don’t know!” Rei protested. “We should go to Headquarters; Professor Laventon and Cyllene are already there!”
“Right!” Kuri nodded and ran after Rei, barely catching a glimpse of Ingo nearby, who was also looking in confusion at the sky. Little did they both know that things were about to go downhill, and fast.
“Consider yourself banished from this village until you can explain why these calamities keep befalling us!”
Kuri felt herself grow completely numb. She barely heard Adaman and Irida loudly protesting Kamado’s actions. Cyllene took her shoulder and swiftly steered her out of the room, having volunteered to escort Kuri out of the village. She thought she saw Kamado whisper something to a guard just before he shut his doors behind her, but she paid it no mind.
Kuri exited the building with Cyllene by her side, where Rei and Professor Laventon were waiting. Cyllene explained the situation, as Kuri was too stricken with shock to even speak. “But…no…there’s no way!” Rei protested. “Kuri didn’t do anything, she couldn’t have!”
“This can’t be right!” Professor Laventon exclaimed. “Just what is Commander Kamado thinking?!”
“Orders are orders,” Cyllene said firmly before turning to Kuri. “Now, follow me.”
“But-” Cyllene silenced Rei with a glare; people were already gathering, forming a path to the village entrance. This time, everyone was glaring at her. Kuri bit her lip, barely keeping tears back as she began to slowly follow Cyllene. Rei and Professor Laventon followed behind her, both downcast and confused. The stares pierced Kuri like a Pin Missle from all sides. The whispers were louder, the doubt was now palpable and thick like it had been building up from the moment Kuri first arrived.
“Wait!” Kuri looked over her shoulder to see Ingo try to make his way towards her through the crowd and the whispers grew louder.
“Wait, didn’t he fall from the sky like her?”
“What if he’s part of this too? They could be working together!”
“They’re super friendly with each other; I bet they are!”
Ingo was soon surrounded by scared and angry villagers. “Are you doing this too?”
“What…?”
“You trying to save your accomplice?!”
“You both turned the sky red, didn’t you?!”
“I just want to talk to her!” Ingo tried to move again. “Kuri!”
If Kuri wasn’t panicking before, it went into overdrive when she saw some guards part the crowd and approach Ingo. “Warden Ingo, under orders from Commander Kamado, you’re under arrest as a suspect for the space-time distortion.”
“No!” Kuri made to run over, but Cyllene swiftly stopped her with an arm across her chest. “Ingo! INGO!”
“Quiet! We have to go,” Cyllene said sharply.
“No! I have to help him” Kuri yelled, struggling against her hold and calling to the guards who were pinning Ingo to the wall, cuffing his wrists. “STOP! He has nothing to do with this! LET HIM GO!”
“Interfering will only make it worse,” Cyllene hissed. “Worry about yourself until you’re out of here.”
“She’s right, Kuri, they’ll just arrest you too!” Rei exclaimed despite the tears in his eyes, pushing her along.
“Ingo!” Kuri reached out as Ingo was shoved away, their eyes locking for a moment. Professor Laventon turned her around, a sad look on his face as he forced himself to look away. Once Ingo was out of sight, Kuri seemed to stop struggling, soft sobs overcoming her as she was escorted out of the village and to the Fieldlands Camp.
Kuri sat at the edge of a cliff overlooking Obsidian Falls, knees to her chest and her face buried in her arms. How could this day have gone so wrong so fast? She hadn’t stopped crying the entire time. Even when meeting with Lian and Mai, her eyes refused to stay dry. Now she truly felt like she was at her lowest point. She was no longer part of the Galaxy Team, neither the Diamond nor Pearl clan could help her, Laventon and Rei were probably on thin ice with Kamado from just associating with her, and Ingo…
A muffled sob escaped Kuri; Ingo was locked up, arrested for something he didn’t do. Even if Kuri somehow was the cause of all this, she wouldn’t want Ingo to get blamed either! She had to help him…
‘Helping people won’t solve this; it still got you into this mess, didn’t it?’ A voice in her head said.
Kuri shook her head; helping people was all she had. She lived for it, thrived when she did it. Now one of the people she cared about more than anything needed it, and there was nothing she or her Pokemon could do.
Cyllene’s words to her echoed in her head. ‘Worry about yourself until you're out of here.’
Kuri lifted her head as they seemed to ring clearer. Maybe…she could still help Ingo without directly doing it herself. Kuri got to her feet, wiped her tears away, and pulled out her flute, playing Sneasler’s tune. Moments later, the Noble appeared before her. “Sneasler, please, you have to go to Jubilife Village!” Kuri begged, her voice cracking.
“Snea?” Sneasler tilted her head in confusion.
“It’s Ingo, he’s in trouble!” Sneasler perked up. “They’re blaming him for something he didn’t do; please, help him!”
“Sne!” The Noble nodded without hesitation and shot off in the direction of the village. Kuri took a deep breath as Sneasler disappeared; now she would just have to trust and wait.
Ingo honestly had no idea that Jubilife Village had a dungeon. Considering it was located underneath the Galaxy Team Building, he supposed many others didn’t either. That didn’t make it any less unpleasant to be thrown into one of the many dark cells below. Ingo shifted and winced. His arms ached from being bound behind him; the metal cuffs were tight and constantly rubbing the skin on his wrists.
He wasn’t sure how long he had been down here; the red sky made telling the passage of time impossible. It was neither light nor dark, but he assumed it had been a good many hours. His heart ached that Irida had yet to make an appearance; did she think he was to blame too? Ingo shook his head; he couldn’t think like that. Lady Irida trusted all of her Wardens, including him. She wasn’t present when he was arrested, and neither was Lord Adaman; was it possible that they didn’t know? Ingo didn’t want to think that Kamado would stoop that low, but after seeing Kuri exiled, he supposed it was very possible.
Kuri…poor, sweet, innocent little Kuri… Almighty Sinnoh was a cruel being if he truly intended for this to happen to her. She did as she was told, helped everyone she could, and it was all for nothing. Ingo bit his lip at the thought of her out there alone. At least she had her Pokemon with her (unlike his, which were confiscated), but he doubted they would do much against whatever was causing the sky to change. He shuddered to think about how any wild Pokemon would be affected. Would more frenzied Pokemon appear? More space-time distortions?
The more he thought about it, the more frightened he became for his friend. Ingo had truly grown to care for this child in the few short months they had known each other, he would even go as far as to say he loved her. And now she could be in danger and he was stuck in here! Ingo gave his bonds one more vain pull before slumping, his head low. What was he going to do now…?
“Snaww!”
Ingo’s head shot up at the familiar cry. He looked around until he spied the barred window above him where a Noble Pokemon was gazing through. “Sneasler!” He exclaimed softly. Sneasler held her claws in front of her mouth, gesturing to keep quiet as she easily sawed through the bars. The Noble quietly jumped into the cell and approached him. “Sneasler, what are you doing here?” Ingo whispered as his cuffs were sawed off by her sharp claws.
“Snea snea!” She pointed to the now open window and then to the basket on her back.
“You’re helping me?” Ingo asked, rubbing his sore wrists. Sneasler nodded, and Ingo felt relief fill his chest. “How did you know I was here?” Sneasler gave a knowing smile and realization hit him. There was only one other person who could have possibly sent Sneasler here.
“Very well, all aboard!” Ingo climbed into the basket. “Full speed ahead, Sneasler! We have to find Kuri!” Sneasler nodded, climbed the wall, and leaped out of the window.
After what seemed like hours, Sneasler arrived at their destination. Ingo climbed out of the basket and took in the sight of a small cottage, with a small farm and a table set up outside. “Ah, our other lost friend has arrived.” Ingo turned to see that a woman with silver hair and a black dress was sitting at the table, along with Kuri, who was nursing a cup of tea with red-rimmed eyes.
Kuri perked up, just about dropping her teacup, and her eyes filled with tears, “Ingo…!” She barreled into his chest.
“Kuri…” Ingo’s arms instinctively wrapped around her, feeling his tunic grow slightly damp.
“You’re okay…” Kuri whispered.
“I am, thanks to you and Sneasler,” Ingo said, placing a comforting hand on her head. “I’m glad you’re safe as well.” Kuri nodded, refusing to let go. All Ingo could do was soothingly rub her back; the poor girl had been through so much in such a short time… Ingo easily recalled feeling the same way shortly after he first woke up in Hisui.
“I didn’t do it…” Kuri whimpered softly.
“I know,” Ingo responded. “Don’t think for a moment that you’re responsible for this, Kuri.”
Kuri sniffed, “I got you arrested…”
“You did no such thing,” Ingo said firmly, pulling away slightly and looking down at her. “That was Commander Kamado’s decision, not yours.”
“He’s right, lost one,” The woman stood and walked over to them. “Fear makes humans do reckless things; Kamado should know better than to let that cloud his judgment.” Kuri nodded and wiped her eyes, but she still remained attached to Ingo, like he would vanish if she let go. Ingo looked at her sadly, carding his hand through her hair under her bandana, the action feeling familiar yet bittersweet.
“Let us go inside,” The woman offered. “We have much to talk about.”
The Red Chain. Something that could bind the world with the help of three mythical Pokemon of the three lakes, according to the woman, Mistress Cogita. It was definitely a plan that could work, but the danger involved was more than Ingo would allow Kuri. Of course, he knew he couldn’t stop her, but after everything that had happened the previous day, Ingo wasn’t going to let Kuri out of his sight if he could help it.
“Uh, no offense, but I don’t think you’ll last long without any Pokemon with you.” Volo had said when Ingo said he was coming with them.
“Snawwr!” Ingo smiled as Sneasler appeared behind him, looking mildly offended.
“I’ll remind you, that I never leave the station unprepared,” He said.
“Fair enough,” Volo relented, holding his hands up in surrender. “Although, it would be nice if we had more help from some kind souls…”
“Quite the opportunist, aren’t you Volo?” The three of them turned to see Adaman and Irida walking towards them.
“Adaman…!” Kuri breathed in relief.
“Lady Irida!” Ingo exclaimed.
“Oh Ingo, are you alright?” Irida asked, approaching him and looking him over.
“I’m…fine, my lady,” Ingo replied.
“I’m so sorry, if I had known Kamado would arrest you like that…!”
Ingo and Kuri blinked, “You didn’t know…?”
“He’s got some nerve, going behind both our backs like that,” Adaman said stiffly. “If the sky wasn’t red right now, both of us would probably do something foolish.”
“I hate to admit it, but you’re right,” Irida sighed. “Under any other circumstances, arresting one of my wardens would be a crime, just…ugh, the audacity of that man!”
“Lady Irida…” Ingo couldn’t help but feel touched by Irida’s sudden protective urge. “It’s wonderful to see you, but shouldn’t you be with your clans?”
Adaman waved his hand, “We were able to calm them down, and the other Wardens are watching their Pokemon closely; glad to see you’re doing the same.” He nodded to Sneasler. “Unfortunately, we can’t openly help you.”
“The Commander is already on thin ice with me; if we were to undermine his orders it would only make things worse for all of us.”
“I understand,” Kuri nodded.
But Adaman smirked, “Long story short: if we want to help without drawing attention, only one of us will be helping.”
“I’m going back to Jubilife Village,” Irida said, her eyes fiery. “I’m going to have a good long talk with Kamado.”
“Yikes…” Volo muttered under his breath.
“So that means you’re stuck with me,” Adaman said with a grin. “Let’s get to those lakes.”
It took nearly two weeks to travel to all three lakes, but Kuri had done it. She had passed the trials and gained the blessings of all three lake Pokemon. Kuri was exhausted, but she kept going, her Pokemon strong by her side. They then went to the Shrouded Ruins, and soon, with the help of the three Pokemon of the lakes, the Red Chain was in hand. Now came the hard part: returning to Jubilife Village. Thankfully, Kuri was able to convince Ingo to stay behind this time, as she didn’t want to risk him getting arrested on the spot.
“Are you sure you’ll be alright?” Ingo asked, gripping her shoulders.
“I’ll be fine,” Kuri said, sounding more like herself than she had when she was exiled. “I’ll meet you at Mt. Coronet before you know it. I promise.”
Ingo still looked worried, but he relented, “Promise me you’ll be careful,”
Kuri smiled and went in for a hug, “I promise.” Kuri meant it with all her heart, especially with how tightly Ingo was holding her.
Kuri took a deep breath as the village came into view. She dismounted from Wyrdeer who snorted and nuzzled her slightly. “Thanks…” Kuri said, giving him a pat. “I’ll be okay.” Wyrdeer nodded and Kuri ran towards the entrance. Thankfully, as she drew closer, she could see that the streets were empty; everyone was probably hiding in their homes in fear of what could happen next. Good; the last thing she wanted was to get mobbed. Kuri hurried through the gate, barely realizing that she had passed Rei who was on guard.
“Kuri?!”
Kuri skidded to a stop and whirled around. “Rei!”
“Y-You’re back!” Rei exclaimed. “H-How, why, what about-”
“I think I figured out a way to fix this!” Kuri said breathlessly. “We need to get to headquarters, fast!”
Rei blinked but quickly understood, “Right, c’mon! Everyone left is in the building!” They began running towards the building, just as a forlorn Professor Laventon was exiting.
“Professor!” Rei called.
Laventon looked up and his expression became one of shock at just who was running towards him. “Kuri?!”
“Professor!” Akari waved happily.
“She’s back!” Rei called.
The Professor ran over and met them halfway. “Oh, my dear Kuri…!” Laventon pulled her into his arms with lightning speed. Kuri stiffened in surprise before relaxing into the hug. Laventon pulled away and held her face, his eyes wet, “Are you alright? Are you hurt?” He asked, frantically looking her over.
“I’m fine,” Kuri nodded.
“You have no idea how worried the Professor was about you,” Rei commented with a smile.
“Of course I was, but not nearly as worried as you,” Laventon returned. “I don’t think you’ve slept a wink since she was exiled.”
Rei flushed bright red. “I-I was not!” He squeaked. Professor Laventon gave him a knowing look. “S-So what?” Rei blurted out, his eyes becoming glassy while Kuri smiled tearfully. “My best friend was all alone out there, anyone would be worried, so don’t-”
Kuri took initiative and darted forward, pulling Rei into a hug. “I missed you too…” Rei froze for a few seconds before just about collapsing into the embrace, tears falling from his eyes. Laventon promptly pulled both children into his arms, and Kuri felt like she could melt with happiness right there and then.
After a few moments that Kuri wished would last a bit longer, Laventon pulled away, wiping his eyes. “We should join Cyllene in her office,” He said. “She’s buried in work with the Commander gone.”
Kuri perked up, pulling away from Rei, “Gone?” She asked, fear rising.
“Yeah, he got tired of waiting,” Rei said. “He took the Survey Corps and started for Mt. Coronet.”
Kuri grimaced; this was not good. “We need to hurry,” She said. “I think we can fix this without hurting whatever Pokemon is behind this.”
Ingo had to admit, climbing Mt. Coronet, while the space-time rift was so big, was a bit jarring. Actively running towards danger went against safety protocols, but in this case, he had no choice.
“Well well well, look who it is,” An irritatingly familiar voice called out.
“Warden Melli…” Ingo tensed as the Warden stepped out from behind a boulder, flanked by his Skuntank.
“Didn’t think I’d see you here,” Melli commented. “Last I heard, they threw you in some dungeon.”
“I don’t have time for you right now, Melli,” Ingo said stiffly. He tried to walk past, but Melli blocked his way.
“Tell me, do the Survey Corp know that you broke out?” Melli asked smugly. “I don’t think they’ll be very happy to hear they lost their prisoner.”
“There are more important things to worry about right now,” Ingo said. “Let us pass,” Sneasler growled in agreement, making the Skuntank back off.
Melli rolled his eyes. “Fiiiiine, be that way; we’ll just wait for that little noodle girl instead.” Ingo’s eyes narrowed. “I mean, if you’re here, she must not be far behind. Once that little grunt shows her face, Skuntank and I can get some proper revenge before we turn her over.”
Ingo straightened and grabbed Melli by the front of his tunic, pulling him close. “Listen closely; threaten me all you want,” Ingo said dangerously. “But if you so much as lay a finger on Kuri, I’ll derail you before you can even blink. Am I coming in clear?”
Melli, now a frightful shade of white, swallowed and nodded, “L-Loud and clear…!”
“Good,” Ingo released Melli, having lifted him a few inches off the ground. “Now if you’ll excuse us, we can’t afford any more delays. Full speed ahead, Sneasler.”
“Snea!”
Melli took deep breaths, a hand on his chest as Ingo walked past him, back straight and head held high. He watched him go, in bewilderment at what just happened. “Was he…always that tall?”
When Ingo arrived at the summit camp, he saw Rei and the Professor already there, looking worriedly at the path ahead.
“Oh, Warden Ingo,” Laventon exclaimed when he spotted him. “I’m glad to see you’re safe.”
Ingo nodded, “Where’s Kuri?”
“She already headed up there,” Rei said.
Worry descended on Ingo; she must have used Braviary and Wyrdeer to find a faster route. He nodded to Sneasler, “I’m going after her,” He said, starting up the path.
“Oh, Warden Ingo!” Rei ran up to him. “Here, Kuri said you might want these back.” Four Pokeballs were in his hands; his Pokemon.
“Thank you, Rei,” Ingo said gratefully, taking them and storing them in his jacket. “Full speed ahead!”
“Snea!”
Kuri’s heart was pounding as she stood in a small area in the middle of the tunnel, confronted by Beni of all people, saying it was time to put a stop to her. Were the situation any different, Kuri probably would have laughed, but something was keeping her on edge. “I…I don’t understand…”
“Simply put, I’m the one Kamado turns to when he doesn’t want to get his hands…dirty.” Kuri’s heart leapt into her throat; there was no way he meant… “You’ve seen my smoke bombs before, yes?” Beni asked, his eyes gleaming. “Well, this is how they’re meant to be used!” He threw one down, and suddenly, the old chef was replaced with a tall, intimidating figure in white garments, covering his face.
“No hard feelings, Kuri,” Beni said. “But it’s time we got rid of you, once and for all.” Kuri didn’t even hear the rapid footsteps and didn’t even have the chance to grab a Pokeball. The moment she turned, the glowing eyes of a Gallade were lunging towards her, blade arms at the ready. Kuri only had time to stumble to the ground and-
Klang!
Gallade’s blade was blocked by another; specifically, by a pair of long, keen claws. “Snawr,” Sneasler growled, before easily pushing the Gallade away, standing protectively over Kuri.
“As long as I’m here, I won’t let any of you harm Kuri.” Ingo said, stepping forward from the tunnel.
“Ingo…!”
“Go, Kuri,” Ingo ordered. “I’ll be right behind you.” Kuri nodded, getting to her feet, and hurried past Beni. The ninja growled, moving to intercept her, but Sneasler quickly moved between them.
“Your fight is with me,” Ingo said, adjusting his cap. “Kuri must reach a very important destination; I’ll make sure nothing delays her arrival.”
“Very well,” Beni sneered, pulling out a Pokeball. “I’ll just deal with her after you.”
“We’ll see about that,” Ingo replied, pulling out his own Pokeball.
Beni was certainly no pushover, and it didn’t help that he wasn’t afraid to play dirty. Ingo found himself commanding two Pokemon at once as Beni’s Pokemon all seemed to be hiding in the darkness, waiting to strike. Ingo’s focus had never been sharper; he managed to take out Beni’s Mismagius but at the cost of his Tangrowth. Machoke, Gliscor, and Magnezone were holding their own decently well, but Beni’s Gallade was more swift and agile than he was prepared for. At one point, he saw a Sneasler scurrying away from the battlefield towards the exit. It took one precious second to realize that it wasn’t his Sneasler.
“Lady Sneasler!” Ingo yelled pointing to the tunnel. The Noble quickly intercepted the regular Sneasler, their claws immediately clashing like rapid swords. Lady Sneasler slowly but surely pushed her double back towards the battlefield. Kuri didn’t seem to be in the cave anymore; as long as he kept Beni contained here, she would be safe.
“Enough!” Beni’s voice pierced through the air as he threw down another smoke bomb, vanishing. Ingo looked around frantically for any sign of him when a puff of smoke came from the side.
Suddenly, Machoke was floating in blue energy, and blue eyes could be seen through the obscurity. He had a Gardevoir too?! Gardevoir slammed Machoke to the ground, easily defeating him, and then turned her attention to the Warden. She raised her hand and Ingo cried out as he was lifted into the air, his arms stretching to the side against his will. With a flick of her wrist, Gardevoir pinned him to the wall. Ingo cried out in pain, feeling the psychic energy start to crush him.
“I never trusted you or that brat,” Beni said, stepping back out of the darkness. “Kuri, bringing all those Pokémon into our village, and you, with your battles and training; we should’ve known it would all lead to this,” Beni stared through him. “I don’t like to eliminate anyone other than my target, but it’s clear you’ve left me no choice.”
“Please…!” Ingo grunted. “Don’t do this…Kuri…she’s just…a child…!”
“Adult, child, it makes no difference,” Beni said. “Kamado gave me an order, and I’m following through with it, no matter what it takes. Even if it means cutting that brat down.”
“No…!” Ingo struggled.
Beni pointed at Ingo. “Gallade. Psycho Cut.” The Pokemon’s arms lit up and he ran towards a now defenseless Ingo. Sneasler yelled in anger, but Beni’s Sneasler kept her pinned. Ingo shut his eyes as the attack drew closer and closer and-
“Pikachu, use Volt Tackle!”
A yellow blur of electricity collided with Gallade, knocking the Pokemon away. “Pika pika!” The Pikachu cried triumphantly. Gallade flew right into Gardevoir, causing the Psychic to end and Ingo fell to the ground.
“Warden Ingo! You okay?”
Ingo turned his head to see Rei running towards him. “Rei…!”
The boy stepped in front of him, looking fiercer than ever. “I may not be as good at battling like you or Kuri…” Rei clenched his fist. “But I’ll do whatever I have to to keep you from killing my friends!”
Ingo got to his feet, “Sneasler and I will finish these two,” He gestured to Gardevoir and Sneasler. “I’ll leave the Gallade to you.”
“Got it!” Rei nodded. “Ready Pikachu?”
“Pika!”
Ingo glanced at Rei and felt his head start to ache, so he quickly looked away. This was no time for remembering lost memories! “Gliscor, Aerial Ace!” His Pokemon got up and zoomed at the Gardevoir.
“Mystical Fire,” Beni ordered. Gardevoir summoned an orb of fire on her hands and powered it up before shooting a large stream of flames.
“Block it with Stone Edge!” Ingo commanded. Gliscor quickly slammed the ground with his claws, making stone pillars appear, stopping the flames. “Magnezone, use Thunder!” Magnezone charged up and shot the attack from the other side of Gardevoir, but she easily dodged it. “Keep going!” Ingo ordered. “Tri Attack!”
Magnezone fired off attack after attack, but Gardevoir just nimbly dodged like a dancer. Out of the corner of his eye, Ingo spied Lady Sneasler finally defeating her doppelganger; it was time to finish his opponent. He looked up at Gliscor, who was attached to the ceiling in the darkness, lying in wait. The next Tri-Attack missed, making Gardevoir step back one more step. “Thunder, once more!” The cave was lit up with a bright light as the Thunder shot out, but missed.
Ingo didn’t miss a beat. “Now, Flash Cannon!” Magnezone swiftly fired the attack. Gardevoir was caught completely off-guard, taking the brunt of the attack. She staggered and Ingo found his opening, “Gliscor, Cross Poison!” The Pokemon flew downward and landed the attack right on Gardevoir’s back. The elegant Pokemon cried out in pain before collapsing in defeat.
Now it was just down to Gallade.
Rei grit his teeth; he had been trying to land a Thunderbolt, but Gallade was just too fast. “Um, use Quick Attack!” Rei tried. Pikachu’s speed increased and that seemed to help him keep up with Gallade, the two of them landing fast but small hits on each other.
Beni just sighed. “Thunderpunch.” Gallade’s fist crackled with electricity, and he quickly stopped Pikachu in his tracks. He struck Pikachu right in the stomach, making the mouse choke in pain.
“Pikachu!” Rei yelled as his Pokemon slammed into the wall and fell to the ground.
“Finish it, Gallade,” Beni said calmly. Gallade activated Psycho Cut and charged at the cornered Pikachu. Rei felt panic start to build up, flashes of a wild Shinx zooming towards him with the intention to injure or worse. He squeezed his eyes shut, hearing Pikachu call out to him for help.
‘ Trust your Pokemon,’ Kuri’s words from their very first battle echoed in his head and the memory vanished. Pikachu needed him…he needed him to trust him to win this! Rei opened his eyes as Gallade was mere feet from Pikachu. “Use Iron Tail!” Pikachu grinned and obeyed. His tail blocked the Psycho Cut with ease. “Push him back, as hard as you can!” Pikachu growled and struggled against the tall Pokemon, but eventually managed to send him back a few feet.
“Psycho Cut again,” Beni ordered.
“Use Quick Attack!” Agile Style!" Pikachu ran around Gallade, easily avoiding the attack with his speed until Gallade could barely keep up.
“Now finish it!” Rei yelled, suddenly remembering that he had a type advantage. “Play Rough!” Pikachu ran back towards the Gallade at top speed and began glowing pink. Gallade's eyes widened and Pikachu collided with the tall Pokemon. The little mouse zoomed all over the Pokemon, attacking here and there until Pikachu leaped away and the Gallade toppled over. Beni had been defeated.
“Bravo, Rei! Excellent!” Ingo exclaimed.
“We…we did it…” Rei breathed. “Pikachu, we…!”
“Pika pika!” Pikachu ran over and jumped into Rei’s arms, catching the boy off-guard, but making him laugh happily.
“We actually won! Kuri was right, we can do it!”
“Pikachu!” The mouse agreed joyfully.
Beni vanished in a puff of smoke without a word, but Ingo allowed himself to relax. He had no more Pokemon; Kuri was in no danger from him. “Come on, we have to catch up with Kuri!”
“Right!” Rei and Pikachu nodded, the mouse moving to his trainer’s shoulder.
Ingo and Rei ran through the tunnel until the summit came into view. As they drew closer they could hear the sounds of loud noises, like moves clashing.
“What’s going on up there?!” Rei exclaimed.
Ingo shook his head. “I don’t know; let’s hurry!” They rushed up the stone steps and skidded to a halt at the sight before them. Adaman, Irida, and Kamado were a little ways ahead of them, and at the very back, in a small clearing, was Kuri, facing down a…!
“Is t-that a P-Pokemon?!” Rei stuttered, his Pikachu moving to hide behind him.
“Could that be…Almighty Sinnoh?!” Ingo exclaimed. And Kuri was battling it…oh no, Kuri was battling it! Ingo found himself moving closer to the battle just so he could size up Kuri. Thankfully, she seemed uninjured. Almighty Sinnoh didn’t seem frenzied or aggressive, just battling as regular wild Pokemon did. Kuri currently had Ezili, her Floatzel, on the battlefield. Almighty Sinnoh roared and began charging an attack in his mouth, and Kuri commanded a Hydro Pump to counter.
As the two attacks collided, pain struck Ingo’s head. He grunted and staggered on his feet, leaning against the nearest pillar. What on earth…?! Ingo clutched his head with one hand, supporting himself against the pillar with the other; his vision blurred, the images of Kuri and her Pokemon blending together.
No, not again, not now…!
Shadows replaced the beings on the battlefield. The temple around him shifted slightly but barely changed. Almighty Sinnoh was replaced with a giant black mass, and Kuri took a new shape once more. It was the same shadow as the one he usually saw in the metal box. A young girl, maybe a bit older than Kuri; he could see it now. Hair in a ponytail and tucked in a hat, but commanding a water Pokémon that walked on all fours, nothing like Kuri’s Floatzel. Yet the setting was nearly identical…what was going on?!
Ingo’s vision flitted back and forth between reality and memory as Kuri switched her Pokemon once they got too tired. Kuri’s Pokemon all constantly morphed into shapes of Pokemon he couldn’t recall but desperately wanted to! Why did he have such an intense memory as this one?! The metal box and his twin all at least made sense in the long run, but this…?! This was an unknown track and he was barreling down it at top speed!
Finally, Almighty Sinnoh let out another roar, looking quite winded. Kuri saw her chance. “Grace, use Aura Sphere!” Gardevoir took aim and fired, the move hitting true. The large black Pokémon staggered, clearly winded. Kuri then threw a purple Ultra Ball, and the large Pokémon flew inside. The ball shook once…twice…then clicked.
The battle and Ingo’s vision faded, leaving the Warden nearly breathless and reeling as the pain left as quickly as it arrived. How on earth did he have a memory like that?
Kuri walked up to the platform and picked up the Ultra Ball, letting out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. Did she do it? Was the world saved? No…the sky was still red, so what-
The ground shook again, harder this time. Kuri barely heard Adaman say that the Pokémon, Dialga, was warning them about another Pokémon being frenzied and was coming for them. Kuri looked straight up above her, seeing a portal open once again.
A large white foot began to emerge above her head. Kuri barely found the will to stumble back down the stairs, clutching Dialga’s Pokeball as a large white Pokémon landed before her. It was similar to Dialga, but also completely different. Kuri’s legs shook underneath her as the Pokémon looked around before its eyes fell on her. The pearls on its arms lit up and began charging an attack. Kuri found herself frozen as the Pokémon raised its arm to strike.
“KURI!” Someone grabbed her by the back of her uniform and yanked her away. She was pulled to someone’s chest as they took cover behind one of the pillars while the attack scorched the floor where Kuri was just standing. She then saw the tattered black coat and snapped out of her shock.
“Ingo?!”
“We have to go!” Ingo urged. Kuri nodded and they ran out of the temple where the others were waiting. Kamado ordered the Survey Corp to retreat and every ran back down the summit as fast as they could. Once they made it back to the summit camp, everyone just about collapsed from exhaustion as their adrenaline ran out.
“Is everyone alright?!” Laventon began fussing over everyone, meaning Kuri and Rei. “Rei, you scared me half to death! You take off without a word and suddenly the ground is shaking?!”
“We’re fine, Professor,” Kuri said. “I mean, another Almighty Sinnoh is rampaging around the temple, but we’re fine.”
“Another Almighty-!” Laventon shook his head, running his hands over his face, looking very stressed. “Don’t you ever run off like that without warning again, Rei!” Laventon lightly scolded.
“Sorry…” Rei mumbled. Even Pikachu looked a bit sheepish.
Laventon sighed and pulled the boy into a hug, “You kids…what am I going to do with you?”
“You should be proud of him,” Ingo spoke up. “It was because of Rei that we were able to defeat Beni.”
“Wait, Beni?!” Laventon exclaimed. “He…battled you?!”
“He did,” Ingo nodded. “He was after Kuri. And if Rei hadn’t shown up when he did, I probably wouldn’t have survived either.”
“Whoa whoa whoa,” Adaman said, waving his hands, looking suspicious. “What do you mean by ‘you wouldn’t have survived?'” Kuri shuffled her feet and shuddered at the memory, prompting Ingo to put an arm around her, while Rei sent a glare to Kamado, who at least had the decency to look guilty.
Irida and Adaman slowly turned to him, both of their expressions slowly turning to ones of disbelief and rage. “You didn’t…” Adaman said softly. “Tell me you didn’t actually try to…!”
“I…” Kamado said softly. “Made a rash decision-”
“RASH DECISION?!” Irida exploded. “Kuri is one of your own! And not only that, she’s a CHILD! And you were willing to stoop so low as to order for her and anyone who aided her to be killed?!”
“I swear…if a giant frenzied Pokemon hadn’t just appeared and nearly killed us all, I would declare war on you here and now,” Adaman said venomously. “I don’t know if our relations can ever be the same after this.”
“For once I agree; congratulations Kamado, your reckless and terrifying behavior has brought our two clans together in the worst possible way,” Irida said stiffly.
Kamado swallowed thickly, “...I owe all of you a sincere apology,” He said. “I…let my fear and my past blind me to reason, and we all could have been eliminated because of it.” He looked at Kuri. “I don’t expect forgiveness from any of you,” He glanced at Ingo, as well as the two clan leaders. “But at least allow me and the Galaxy Team to aid you in stopping this calamity.”
Silence fell over everyone until Kuri finally spoke up. “...Okay,” She gave the briefest of smiles, but it was clear that any forgiveness would have to be earned. But it wasn’t the time for arguing; they had work to do.
Two days. Two days longer than anyone would have liked, but they did it. With the help of Lian and Professor Laventon, they were able to come up with a Pokeball design that would calm and capture the rampaging Pokemon. When the glowing, red Pokeball was finally done, it was a sight to behold.
Kuri couldn’t help but feel warm as she held the Origin Ball in her hand. It was kind of beautiful to her. It was created thanks to Adaman’s connection with Dialga, Irida having the foresight to grab the broken pieces of the Red Chain, and the resources of Professor Laventon and Rei. The Diamond clan, Pearl clan, and Galaxy Team all came together to make their last hope for quelling this new Pokemon (called Palkia, as they learned from Mistress Cogita). Who would’ve thought it would take the world nearly ending to bring everyone together like this. They took a caravan up to the summit camp this time, and soon, Kuri, Ingo, Rei, Laventon, Adaman, Irida, and Kamado were all back at the entrance to the temple.
Ingo could see that Kuri was tense and for good reason. He took her shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze, making her look up at him. “It will be alright,” He reassured. “We’ll be right beside you.” That brought a smile out of her. They entered the temple, and Palkia was standing in the arena, waiting for them. It seemed like he hadn’t moved. But the moment he saw Kuri, and the Ultra Ball in her hand, he got down on all fours and started shining with a golden light. Kuri threw Dialga’s ball, but the light was already flashing dangerously.
“TAKE COVER!” Kamado bellowed.
Adaman and Irida dove behind some pillars and Ingo’s instincts took over. He grabbed Kuri and hunched on the ground, covering her as best he could. Laventon shielded Rei in a similar fashion to Ingo, all of them squeezing their eyes shut and clutching each other as the light enveloped them, blowing the entire roof of the temple away.
But…nothing happened.
Silence seemed to fall over them. “Dialga…!” Ingo opened his eyes to see Kuri peeking out from his hold and he followed her gaze. Dialga was standing in front of the four of them, having shielded them from any damage from the attack.
Dialga looked behind him and locked eyes with Kuri, who nodded, moving a little more away from Ingo. “Do it, Dialga!”
Dialga turned back to the light and charged up his Roar of Time. The attack flew out and hit the wall of light, and Palkia was revealed…but in a completely different shape. His arms had vanished, he sported four legs instead of two, and a strange shape encircled his middle. He looked somewhat familiar, but Kuri didn’t have time to think about it. Everyone got to their feet as Palkia reared up like an enraged Rapidash, letting out an ear-piercing roar. A bright light came over them, making them look up at the sky.
Fear squeezed Kuri by the throat as a giant ball of fire flew towards them. As if on cue, her Gardevoir emerged unprompted. “Grace! Get everyone out of here!” Kuri screamed over the noise. Grace nodded and her eyes glowed. All at once, everyone except for Kuri was lifted up with psychic energy.
Ingo’s eyes widened in fear. “Kuri, what are you…?!”
Kuri nodded to Grace and all the humans in the ruined temple were flung out, landing safely in the snow. At the last moment, Kuri rolled out of the way of the ball of fire just in time, ending up in the arena where she battled Dialga, where Palkia now stood. The diamond on Dialga’s chest glowed, and a blue barrier surrounded the area, keeping Kuri and Palkia in, and everyone else out. Good; better to keep Palkia from causing as little damage as possible.
She blinked as she spotted Dialga outside the barrier, frowning in confusion until Dialga’s diamond glowed again. A tall basket appeared beside Kuri…it was full of balms. Kuri looked at Dialga and understood; battling wasn’t just going to solve this. Palkia had to be calmed, like a frenzied Noble.
“Alright…” Kuri picked up the first balm of what was sure to be many. “Let’s do this…!”
Ingo’s heart was pounding as he and the others hurried back into the temple, taking cover behind the now ruined pillars. All they could do was watch as Kuri faced down the giant Pokemon, Charcoal at her side. He had no idea where she had gotten those balms from, but now wasn’t the time to question things.
Everyone was tense as they watched the bout. This was so much more nerve-wracking than watching her tussle with the regular Noble Pokemon. In fact, Palka’s attacks made all the Nobles’ frenzied states look like minor aggression!
“Kuri!” Ingo couldn’t help but cry as she barely dodged another ball of fire from the sky. The thing was using it to make rings of flames to distance himself from the girl.
“C’mon, Kuri…!” Rei muttered to himself.
For the most part, Kuri seemed to be doing well…until she wasn’t. All it took was one miscalculated dodge, and Kuri rolled right into the pink flames.
“No!” Laventon cried. Palkia found the opening and pounced. Irida clapped her hands over her mouth as a ball of fire exploded right behind Kuri making her scream in pain, the explosion throwing her off her feet. Palkia glared down at her, and released a pulse of energy from his body, hitting her dead on.
Ingo swore his heart stopped beating as Kuri slammed against the barrier and crumbled to the ground.
“NO!” Rei screamed. Kuri lay prone on the ground, unmoving. Charcoal bolted over and crouched by her side, nudging her and whining. This couldn’t be…! This couldn’t be where the line ended! Ingo’s vision wavered, and he thought he was about to pass out when the ruins from before flashed in his mind. He honed in on Kuri’s fallen form; why was he remembering something now?!
“ Get up!”
Ingo blinked as a voice echoed in his head.
“Get up!” That voice…it was his own! This never happened before!
“Please, get up!” Another voice joined in, sounding so close he almost thought someone was right next to him. “You’ve got to get up!”
A tall brighter shadow replaced Palkia, similar to the black one from before, but this one was nearly white. Ingo could see others alongside it. All of them standing menacingly over a fallen girl.
“ Get up ---------!”
Ingo clenched his fists, focusing on the real figures, “Get up…!” He rasped, catching everyone’s attention. “Kuri…get up!” His voice grew louder. “You have to get up!”
“Kuri!” Rei joined in. “Get up! C’mon, you’ve got to get up!”
“You can’t be done, Kuri!” Adaman yelled. “Get up!”
“C’mon, get up!” Irida yelled.
“Please, Kuri, please get up!” Laventon begged.
“Get up!” Kamado's crisp voice cut through the air. “Are you a Galaxy Team member or aren’t you!? Get up!”
“C’mon --------! You can do it!”
“Full speed ahead!”
Everyone’s cheers and cries filled the air, Ingo’s ears ringing from the ones in his head and the ones around him.
By some miracle…Kuri stirred.
Charcoal started and quickly moved his head under her, helping her sit up. “Charcoal…” She whispered. “Everyone…” Palkia roared again and Kuri stared at it, feeling energy fill her once more. “I’m not…done with you…!” Kuri balanced on Charcoal as she slowly rose. “I’m not gonna let you…destroy Hisui!”
Kuri’s hands went to her belt and grabbed all five remaining Pokeballs. She summoned her entire team, all of them brimming with energy, ready to fight. Palkia began his barrage of attacks again. Her Pokemon scattered across the arena and Kuri dodged perfectly. “Alright everyone, we’re finishing this! Together!” Kuri said to her team. Her Pokemon all cheered in agreement. “Alright! Let’s go!” Palkia unleashed a wave of energy, and Kuri leaped right over it, getting bags of balm ready.
“Redstone, use Bug Buzz!” Yanmega filled the air with green soundwaves, throwing Palkia off balance.
“Ezili, use Ice Punch!” Floatzel ran up and uppercut Palkia.
“Grace, use Dazzling Gleam!” Gardevoir shot a powerful flash, making Palkia roar and stagger backward.
“Gale, use Brave Bird!” Staraptor flew into the air, surrounded itself in pure energy, and hit Palkia right in the center.
“Jupiter, use Thunder Fang!” Luxray ran up and bit one of Palkia’s legs, making the Pokemon roar as paralysis took hold.
“Charcoal, finish it! Strong Style! Infernal Parade!” Charcoal roared and pelted the Legendary Pokemon with giant ghostly fireballs.
Kuri wasn’t far behind, throwing balm after balm. Finally, she threw one more, and Palkia finally fell to his knees. Kuri got out the Origin Ball, threw it, and red light enveloped Palkia as it opened, eerily similar to the Red Chain. Palkia vanished, leaving the ball behind, which fell to the ground.
It shook once…twice…three times…and clicked. It was over.
Kuri let out a breath like a weight had been lifted from her chest as she picked up the Origin Ball. She looked up and smiled as the red sky above them slowly vanished, revealing the afternoon sun. She wasn’t sure how much time had passed since it had changed, but she didn’t care. Her Pokemon swarmed her happily, making Kuri laugh while holding the Origin Ball closely.
Dialga moved forward and Kuri smiled, reaching out. Dialga stared for a moment and then slowly lowered his head, meeting Kuri’s hand and feeling the gratitude from her. Dialga met her eyes and seemed to give her a nod before raising his head and dropping the barrier.
Kuri recalled all her Pokémon, including Dialga, before she was nearly tackled by Rei throwing his arms around her neck. “Don’t ever do that again…!” He mumbled into her scarf. Kuri just sighed in relief and deflated into the hug before Laventon came and enveloped both of them in his arms. Once they were released, Adaman ruffled Kuri’s hair and Irida gave her a hug as well.
Not long after, Ingo found himself being hugged by Kuri, and he easily returned it. “We did it,” She breathed.
“We couldn’t have done it without you,” Ingo replied, pride seeping into his voice. “Bravo, Kuri.”
Medical personnel tended to Kuri’s injuries in the caravan. Ingo was thankful that they had decided to come along this time rather than wait in Jubilife Village. Night had fallen by the time they reached the relieved village, and poor Kuri and Rei were practically asleep on their feet. They had barely slept a wink since this whole ordeal started and their exhaustion was palpable. Laventon scooped Rei up into his arms, the boy instantly falling asleep, and Ingo got Kuri on his back.
The girl’s eyes were nearly closed as her head lay heavily on his back, her arms hanging over his shoulders. Ingo smiled fondly as he walked towards Kuri’s abode. “Are you feeling alright, Kuri?”
Kuri nodded, “Jus’ tired…” she murmured.
“Well, sleep as long as you need; you’ve earned it.”
Kuri hummed, “Finally done…can focus on memories now…”
“Oh, that reminds me,” Ingo said, peeking at Kuri over his shoulder. “These events shook many more memories loose.”
Kuri perked up as best she could, “They did?!” She exclaimed. “What did you see?”
Ingo chuckled as Kuri’s eyes refused to remain open. “I’ll tell you all about it when you wake up.”
“No, no, I’m awake…!” Kuri shifted on his back, probably trying to wake herself up. “I’m awake, you can tell m…” She cut herself off with a yawn, making Ingo snort.
“Your engine is running on fumes.” He remarked.
“No, it’s n…not…” Kuri slurred, already nodding off.
“Yes, it is,”
“Noooo…”
Ingo pushed the door to Kuri’s house open with his foot and made his way towards her futon. “The station is closed for the night,” Ingo said, carefully placing Kuri down and removing her shoes and bandana. “We’ll resume our regular schedules in the morning,” Kuri whined and shook her head, but she gave up the moment her head was lowered onto the pillow. She was so stubborn, just like him (what?). Ingo covered her with her quilt and nestled into it, a content and peaceful smile on her face just like his (wait). Ingo stood and quietly headed back to the door.
“‘Night Ingo…” Kuri mumbled.
“Goodnight, Em-.” Ingo stopped himself, the door still open. “Goodnight, Kuri,” He quickly amended (though he doubted Kuri heard it) and shut the door.
What…was…?
Ingo barely bit back a yell as the pain hit him, so intense that he just about keeled over. Somehow, he managed to crawl to the side of the house so he wouldn’t cause a scene. He bit the sleeve of his jacket to keep himself from screaming, feeling like his head was going to explode. That name…the one he had nearly said…what was it? The more he dwelled on it, the more his head felt like it was going to split open.
Too much, too much, too much, STOP!
Ingo forced himself back to the present, focusing on Jubilife Village and Kuri, and the pain slowly subsided. Ingo leaned against the wall of Kuri’s house, breathing heavily; none of his memory flashes had ever been that intense before. The battles at the temple had made him remember too much, to the point where it was painful. And all because he nearly said the name Em-
Ingo sucked in a breath as his head pounded and he brought himself back. Why did remembering that particular name hurt so much? This name was important, he could feel it, yet his mind clearly didn’t want him to remember!
Maybe…it was too soon? Yes, that had to be it. He couldn’t jump ahead of schedule, he had to stay consistent. His memories were like a slowly moving steam train that was slowly building momentum, nothing like the metal box that moved at top speeds (why did he compare them like they were the same thing?). He couldn’t force the engine, he had to stoke the fires and take it slow. Ingo managed to get to his feet and get himself to a guest house, letting his own exhaustion lead him to get some sleep.
The dream of his twin that night was clearer than it had ever been, despite remaining a mystery.