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Chapter Text

A soft chime startled Tripitaka out of her thoughts. Professor Elm looked up as well as she darted over to her worn laptop and nudged the Professor’s curled up Eevee off the keyboard to open her email, hands shaking. Tripitaka’s breath caught as she saw the subject line and opened it up, ignoring the crack on the screen that obscured the last part of her name.

Tripitaka -----
Sprout Tower
Violet City, Johto
Re: Internship Offer Letter

Dear Tripitaka,

On behalf of the Pokémon HQ Research Lab of Orre, I would like to thank you for your application to our internship program. I am excited to extend to you a conditional offer for our Pokémon Biology and Behavior research department. The position title is Assistant Researcher, located in Orre, and will begin in 45 days and, if all requirements listed herein are fulfilled, will be for a six month paid opportunity working four days a week as a temporary employee of the Lab. You will report directly to me, Professor Ginkgo.

Your offer is contingent upon journeying to Orre accompanied by one or more Pokémon and not utilizing major public transportation methods. By doing so, you will demonstrate time management, adaptive critical thinking skills, an ability to study within the field, and most importantly, a bond between yourself and the Pokémon accompanying you and the teamwork such a journey entails. Another thing you must do is every day you will document your journey with any fieldwork observations you encounter. Details of such a challenge, minimum days during your journey, and acceptable transportation are listed in the attachments provided.

It is also to be noted that positions are limited, and this offer has been extended to other candidates who, like yourself, have also proven to be exceptional in their fields of study. Please exercise discretion while traveling as to not create any rivalries with potential coworkers.

Upon arrival, employment is conditional upon passing a drug screen and a psychic memory scan to determine any ‘cheating.’

Please respond to this email with your electronic signature to confirm your acceptance as well as an account number to send to you your traveling stipend.

Thank you once again for your application to our internship program, and I look forward to working with you. Please contact me with any inquiries.

Sincerely,

A. Ginkgo
Pokémon Professor

Tripitaka sank into her chair, heart hammering. She’d done it. She’d gotten in. Sage let out a questioning trill, nudging her soft brown head under Tripitaka’s still shaky hands.

“I take it it’s not a spam email?” Professor Elm chuckled, coming up beside her. He pushed up his glasses as he skimmed through it. “Well that is certainly the most unusual internship acceptance email I’ve ever seen. But Ginkgo has always been an odd one.”

“Elm… I did it,” Tripitaka breathed, belatedly realizing this was only the very first step.

“You did,” he agreed, squeezing her shoulder. “I couldn’t have written that application essay better myself!”

“Why the traveling by foot thing? And why do I need to go with a Pokémon? I don’t even have one,” Tripitaka realized.

Elm shrugged. “It’s part of Ginkgo's interviewing process. I assure you, there’s a method to the madness, even if you can’t see it. It’s all a test. As for the Pokémon issue…” He glanced at Sage, who brightened up, wagging her bushy tail. “I think we can solve that rather easily.”

“I-” Tripitaka’s mind was abuzz with all that she needed to do. If little kids could go on a journey like this, surely she could do it as well. “I need to go home. I need to- to plan, to pack…”

“Reply to that email first,” Elm said. “Then I can help you get ready to leave. You’ve got a long road ahead, but let’s start with getting you back to Sprout Tower first.”

Chapter 1

Try Everything

“Ready to go, Tripitaka?”

Tripitaka shouldered her bag, making sure to tuck the strap over her long blue scarf. “Ready as I’ll ever be,” she replied with a smile.

Edmond’s eyes were kind as he surveyed her. “And you, dear little friend?”

“Vii,” the Eevee confirmed, wagging her tail. Tripitaka checked her pocket for the umpteenth time that she had Sage’s Pokéball. She wasn’t used to carrying it about.

“Indeed,” the monk said, gesturing for them to leave the room. “It’s only fitting the Professor sent you with an Eevee. A Pokémon with immense potential, much like yourself.”

“Oh stop it,” Tripitaka said with a smile, nudging Edmond out the door. “Professor Elm figured we got along and Sage agreed to go with me, nothing more.” Sage rubbed her body along Tripitaka’s ankle and darted out the door. Tripitaka hesitated at the threshold, looking back at the simple room she had grown up in. She’d miss studying at the desk with all her notes she’d collected from interning at Professor Elm’s laboratory, and winced a bit at all the scrapings on the wooden floor her chair made from pushing it back with a sigh to go snuff out the candles and incense in the small table beside her simple bed in the corner to fall asleep far too late into the night. The chest at the foot of the bed was empty; she’d moved her meager belongings to either her backpack or to Elm’s laboratory to be shipped later if the new internship in Orre panned out.

“You’ll always have a place here, Tripitaka,” Edmond said quietly, startling her. “Sprout Tower will always be your home.”

With a quick nod, Tripitaka put her childhood room behind her. “I know.” As they walked the halls, their echoing footsteps harmonizing with Sage’s nails clicking on the hardwood flooring, Tripitaka wondered if this was how all children felt when they were leaving their childhood homes for the first time to leave on their rite of passage journey with their Pokémon by their side, their hearts fluttering and mind racing. Granted, at eighteen she was quite late to the party, but she’d never expressed an interest in traveling; only studying.

When they arrived in the main foyer, Tripitaka only then realized just how quiet the tower was compared to its normal sounds of chants and muffled battles raging on floors above their heads, and upon seeing all the monks lining the hall, guessed why. Her foster family was here to see her off.

She blushed as they all bowed to her and offered farewells as the Pokémon by their sides offered calls of encouragement, the numerous Bellsprout swaying rhythmically and reaching out with their vines to tap her shoulders and squeeze her hands, dozens of pairs of eyes belonging to the resident Hoothoot blinking down at her. Sage wove in and out of the numerous legs, chirping and basking in the attention of the well-wishers, even though she’d just met only some of them yesterday. The crowd parted and Tripitaka smiled and bowed at her favorite monk that stood before her.

Troy held out his arm and Tripitaka internally winced as his partner Hoothoot, Rén, flew down from the rafters and landed on his arms in a few silent flaps of his large wings. She didn’t particularly care for the owl Pokémon. The feeling was mutual.

“And now we must say farewell to our dear Tripitaka,” Troy said with a good humored smile that Tripitaka returned. He turned to Rén, who didn’t move except to turn his head all the way around to observe the opposite wall. “Now, now, Rén. Remember what virtue you were named for, and say farewell.” Tripitaka adjusted her backpack as Sage bounced over and gave her an expectant look, flinching at the sight of the unusually large bird.

“It’s okay, Troy-” she began, feeling awkward, stopping when Troy held up a finger for her to be patient. She had no idea what the deeply caring man saw in his deeply uncaring partner. This whole sending off thing might have gone much smoother if Rén had just stayed in the rafters. It’s not like he ever cared about her even when she was a small child. He didn’t bother to hide his distaste for anyone that wasn’t Troy. Rén swiveled his head back around and picked between his toes for another awkward pause before delivering the curtest of hoots, as if he could barely deign to utter the single syllable.

Troy smiled at him and tweaked Rén’s beak to give it a small shake. “There. Now was that so difficult?” Rén shot him an askance look before taking off and returning to the rafters to vanish into the shadows. “As always, I apologize for his rudeness. We have been working on his manners.”

“You’ve been working on his manners ever since I was a child…” Tripitaka replied with a wry smile.

He spread his arms with a shrug. “It is a noble thing to constantly work on your faults. I happen to enjoy walking with him on his journey.” He rested his hands on her shoulders. “As I have greatly enjoyed walking with you on yours. Even if it leads you far from home.” She wrapped her arms around him, although internally she was itching to leave. She had a schedule to keep after all. He pushed her away, but still held her at arms’ length, searching her face. “You sure you’ll be alright? You packed enough supplies? Is your scarf going to be warm enough?”

“Troy!” she laughed. “I’ll be fine. If the Tower gave me any more food I’d attract every Ursaring in the region.”

“And you, little Sage?” Troy asked, kneeling beside the Eevee. “Will you look after my girl?”

Sage squealed and trilled before noticing his serious expression. She sat perfectly still and straight, nodding solemnly with a small ‘vi’.

He nodded in return, rubbing behind her long ears and stood, looking like he was going to say something but stopped. Tripitaka wasn’t sure but she thought she saw an odd expression flickering across his eyes before he glanced at her. “I have… forgotten to give you something. Please, can you wait another minute?” Before waiting for her to reply he jogged back into the Tower, robes fluttering in the breeze. It was a funny sight. She’d rarely seen the calm monk do anything at such a pace, except maybe running to her when she’d fallen trying to climb into the rafters. She cringed. She hated anyone fussing over her.

Then again, he’d been more upset that the beam had given her a splinter rather than chiding her recklessness and her clumsiness that led to the fall. It was a stark contrast to his irritable chosen partner, that’s for sure, she mused, listening to the soft chimes in the breeze as bird Pokémon called in the distance. She wondered if Sage would ever bond to her like the Hoothoot had so clearly done with her beloved monk?

Troy returned a short time later, out of breath and bearing a small wrapped package. “Your favorite snacks for studying, as well as some other things that might come in handy. You can open this later,” he said, opening a small compartment in her backpack and stuffing the package in. May I walk with you a bit to see you off?”

“Of course,” she replied. “I’ve got enough time to stop at the Ruins of Alph and then I’ll continue on tomorrow. That should provide some good material for the first day of journeying and fieldwork the Professor wants.”

“As long as you take time to savor and enjoy the journey,” Troy chided. Tripitaka rolled her eyes but caught herself before Troy could see. Savoring the journey could wait until after her position at the internship was secured. He was contemplative as they walked over the smoothed cobblestone that dotted the pathways of Violet City. “I do envy you a bit. I too wanted to travel to see what there is to see.” He smiled as he heard a bird call and the two of them watched a flock of birds take off, their wingbeats drumming the air.

“Maybe on your next go-around you’ll come back as one of those?” Tripitaka suggested.

Troy chuckled and ruffled her short hair. “I can only hope so.” His gaze followed the flock fading in the distance. “I wonder what lessons I would learn in that sort of life.”

Tripitaka wasn’t entirely sure what she would want to reincarnate as if it was supposed to happen to her. “So what happened? Why didn’t you go on a journey like I did?”

“Rén wanted to as well, but I guess I just fell in love with the Tower and being a monk.” He smiled. “You’re far overdue for such a journey, but better late than never.”

Tripitaka glanced around. She was surprised that the bird in question was letting Troy wander off without supervision. “Where is he now?”

“Rén? Oh, he’s not far. He never goes too far away even if I can’t see him.” He smiled at Tripitaka. “He’s very dedicated. Just as you are to your goals. You two are far more alike than you are different.”

Tripitaka wrinkled her nose, kicking a rock out of her way that Sage chased down and batted at, unsure of what Troy was getting at about his prickly partner, or rather about herself if she was being compared to him. “I suppose.”

“Everyone you meet, be it man or beast or Pokémon, has something to teach us,” Troy continued, tucking his hands into his sleeves. “We just have to be willing to listen and to learn.” He stopped, and made a shooing motion. “Now you best run along; I’ve kept you for long enough. Enjoy your journey, my dear.”

Tripitaka gave him a quick hug, privately grateful that he was finally letting her go, but also a tad guilty she felt that way. “I’ll call you tonight!”

“I should expect so,” he replied. “Learn a lot and do your best. And have fun!”

“I will!” she called over her shoulder as she trotted away, almost to the point of a jog as she rounded the corner out of Troy’s sight. By her calculations it would be about an hour and a half hour’s walk to reach the city limits, and then another two hours to reach the Ruins, provided she didn’t stop for too long. After that it would be an afternoon of examining the ruins (she could eat lunch as she investigated), documenting on what she could find or discover, checking into the small Pokémon Center nearby later that evening, an hour getting dinner and then writing her daily assigned field report, and then going to sleep at a reasonable time to wake up early the next day to continue on her very tightly planned adventure, which would start in earnest for the next day. She had it all mapped out; today was just a soft introduction with a bit of fun thrown in. Granted, she would have to account for some hours lost or gained here or there, but if she did everything right she would land herself well within the time limit and, even better, far exceed whoever else had been selected.

What she hadn’t accounted for was just how boring all the walking was. It wasn’t too long before her enthusiastic smile faded from her face and her trot slowed to a plod, as much as she reminded herself to keep her pace up or to scrawl notes of what wild Pokémon she had seen flying in the sky or scuttling in the trees lining the path. The long drive to and from Professor Elm’s laboratory on the weekends where she helped out with his studies was always occupied with excessive chattering as she relayed to Troy or whoever else was driving what she learned or what studies they had worked on. Perhaps this is why all the movies and books showed trainers traveling in pairs or trios… Or just cut out traveling scenes entirely.

She glanced down at Sage, who was merrily prancing around, investigating every smell she came across, seemingly having the time of her life. Pokémon weren’t much for conversation, at least not to Tripitaka.

Not that she hadn’t tried to learn Pokéspeech, she had, really. She just didn’t have a knack for it, even with Troy and a few of the other monks doing their best to tutor her. (It was probably the only time she could detect a hint of disappointment from them.) Even the best trainers often had only a rudimentary understanding of all those growls and squeaks, and it’s not like the Pokémon themselves cared. They knew how to make themselves perfectly understood without need of the trainer recognizing and translating every single phoneme their partner produced. It wasn’t required for school and besides, there were a lot of other things Tripitaka prioritized than a language that wasn’t deemed to be necessary for scholastic success.

A rustle in the nearby grass grabbed her and Sage’s attention. Two long, twitching brown ears protruded from the grass before a small mammal with a ringed tail longer than its entire body sprang out to study them.

“Oh, a Sentret!” Tripitaka exclaimed, fumbling around for her phone while Sage leaped in front of her with an enthusiastic squeal. The Sentret’s muscles bunched up, tail fully bushed out, ready to spring. “Wait, hang on, just a few seconds; I want to record this for my report later,” she muttered. The Sentret wrinkled its nose, sitting back on its haunches. When Tripitaka held up her phone, the Sentret stood up on its tail with an alarmed bark. Sage crouched and growled, looking up at Tripitaka, the tip of her tail twitching.

Tripitaka wanted to die of happiness. An alarm call and getting the tail stand behavior on camera? “Can I see your tail? How thick are the actual bones to support your body?” she asked, darting forward and reaching out. Sentret hissed and lashed out with its forepaws to meet empty air when Tripitaka jerked her hand back. The Sentret bared its teeth and with a final “Tret!” and a shake of its head leaped backwards and turned tail to disappear into the woods. Sage chased after it before trotting back to Tripitaka’s side, putting a paw on Tripitaka’s ankle and letting out a questioning trill.

“I’m… fine,” Tripitaka said, still holding her hand where the Sentret’s scratching claws had ghosted over her skin. She knelt and picked up her phone, stopping to stroke Sage’s ears. “I guess that’s not the response most Pokémon expect from trainers, huh?” Sage didn’t respond except for a tilt of her head, and Tripitaka couldn’t help but notice Sage looked a touch disappointed, either with Tripitaka not being able to respond to a wild Pokémon that definitely weren’t as friendly as the Lab or Sprout Tower inhabitants, or that she didn’t get to battle as she’d probably expected, or even deciding to come with her at all, Tripitaka wasn’t sure.  Granted she never imagined going on a journey with a Pokémon, but still. The books and movies and the monks made the whole traveling with Pokémon thing look easy, with dubbed Pokémon voices and edited out travel time, but now it just felt awkward that she couldn’t get a basic encounter with wild Pokémon correct.

“I guess the first Pokémon I should really study is you,” she mused after some thought. “The next Sentret that challenges us you can have a go at, alright? And you can show me what you can do,” Tripitaka proposed. Sage’s eyes lit up and she bounced around, chattering excitedly. Tripitaka sighed. Maybe Sage wasn’t regretting coming with her after all. With a final pat, Tripitaka stood and they continued on their way.

---

“You here for the Ruins or for the Pokémon Center?” The attendant at the gate was clearly bored, mulching her gum and looking at Tripitaka from under half lidded eyes with a touch of purple eye shadow.

“Um, both? I hope?” Tripitaka replied, trying to not look taken aback at the girl’s blunt attitude. It was rather a shock compared to the calm monks and the enthusiastic but well-meaning Professor Elm and his professional assistants. Sage batted at her shoelaces. “I haven’t been to the Ruins since I was a child and I just remember playing with the sliding-”

“The sliding puzzles, yeah.” The attendant fumbled around under the counter. “Head’s up, if you solve the puzzles it triggers a trap door that dumps you into the actual Ruins.”

Tripitaka definitely didn’t remember any trap doors. Then again, she hadn’t really solved the puzzles when she first visited. “Why?”

“It was the only way the curator found that could make kids actually look at the Ruins.” She shrugged. “The kids still get their prize for the puzzle, but they have to go back through the Ruins to get it.”

“I see.” Tripitaka was hoping that she could in fact exact her revenge on those very sliding puzzles that eluded her as a child, but perhaps she should just go straight to the Ruins. It would be a waste of time anyway. “Well, I was hoping to actually study the area now that I can actually appreciate the-”

“Yeah. Got it,” the attendant cut her off, tossing a visitor’s pass and a map. “Enjoy the Ruins, don’t be a dick; Pokémon Center is on the left, Ruins to the right.”

“Thank you,” Tripitaka called over her shoulder. Sage squeaked out something to the attendant and darted after her. Tripitaka fumbled with the map, and glanced down at Sage. “What do you think? A temporary job she didn’t want?” Sage looked up and said nothing, more interested in smelling the pathway and rolling in the grass. Tripitaka tried to not sigh, writing down that she had seen a lone Girafarig grazing on the other side of the river that surrounded the Ruins. The Ruins of Alph was her fun day before the real journey starts, she reminded herself.

The Ruins soon washed away any sense of awkwardness and Tripitaka soon lost herself in studying the Ruins, taking notes on the intricate carvings on the walls, studying the architecture, and brushing off that quiet buzz in the back of her mind that she was being watched, even if it was just Sage batting at the walls and no wild Pokémon had been observed venturing inside. She even listened to the odd radio broadcast that the Ruins constantly produced, noting Sage’s quizzical reaction with twitching ears. It was like the Ruins themselves were singing. She knew scientists were analyzing the unintelligible chirps and garbled humming sounds, although a part of her wished that she would have one moment of clarity in her brief time studying the Ruins to make a breakthrough that scientists for their entire lives hadn’t been able to produce, if only to make her daily report to the Professor that much better.

When the sun had gone down and the staff members informed her that they were closing for the evening, Tripitaka went to the Pokémon Center to check in for the night. Trainers hardly ever stopped in this area, so it was a rather small building with only a few rooms and stripped down amenities. Tripitaka was the only trainer that had reserved a room in over two weeks, the nurse informed her as she showed Tripitaka to her room.

Sage leaped onto the mattress as soon as the door was open, chittering to nobody in particular as she bounded around the room. Tripitaka guessed she was commenting on their quarters for the night.

“Dinner first, then my report, then bedtime for an early morning,” Tripitaka told her. The idea of dinner perked Sage up as she scrambled over and nosed Tripitaka’s hand to her bag, urging her on to bring out the food faster. “I’m getting there, calm down,” she chuckled. Her hand brushed against a package, and she remembered that Troy had given her something. “I guess we should see what he gave us, huh?”

Sage squealed, hopping up and down. “I doubt he packed chicken in here,” Tripitaka informed Sage, unfurling the package. As expected, on top were Tripitaka’s favorite snacks for studying, a package of herbs she’d learned to use at the Tower, and underneath a minimized red and white Pokéball. Tripitaka frowned and examined it, noting upon maximizing it, the ball looked rather old and was inscribed with the Sprout Tower’s emblem. Turning it over, she saw a very small blue light near the hinge.

“It’s active?” she thought aloud. There was a Pokémon inside. Her frown deepened as she pressed the button. “Come out?” she asked timidly as a white bundle of energy leaped from the ball, forming into a large brown shape. Tripitaka’s heart sank.

The Hoothoot’s head swiveled all the way around, pinning Tripitaka in place with a puzzled orange stare, before Troy’s partner Rén let out a furious screech and lunged.

---

I won't give up, no, I won't give in
'Til I reach the end, and then I'll start again
No, I won't leave, I wanna try everything
I wanna try even though I could fail

Chapter Text

Sage dove in between the enraged owl and Tripitaka with a shriek. Tripitaka scrambled backwards as Rén spread his imposing wings and hissed, crouching low and demanding answers with rapid fire hoots. Sage hissed in return, her fur standing on end, puffing her tiny body up as much as she could although by comparison she was greatly outmatched in size.

“Rén, wait! Wait! Stop! I didn’t know you were in my bag!” Tripitaka yelled, grabbing for the fallen Pokéball in case she needed to recall him to force him to stop. She glanced at the ball in question and back to Rén as the Hoothoot regarded her with narrow, suspicious eyes. “I didn’t even know you had a Pokéball…” Several of the monks at the Tower didn’t bother with the invention, convenient as it was, and she had thought that Troy was no exception. Rén always came to his side when called, as did Troy’s other Pokémon, despite being technically wild residents of the Tower.

He huffed a low hoot and his wings returned to his sides, peering at the Pokéball in Tripitaka’s hand, cocking his head. Sage’s fur smoothed out but she still was planted firmly between them.

“I swear I didn’t catch you or take you away…” Tripitaka stammered. Rén didn’t look convinced, his ear tufts still pinned down to his head. Tripitaka clutched his Pokéball and stood up, trying to shake off her fright. She couldn’t give the grouchy Pokémon the satisfaction of knowing how badly he’d scared her. “I… You know we should probably call Troy and sort this all out. It’s got to be a mistake.”

Rén pecked and nipped at her heels the entire way to the Pokémon Center’s sole video phone with Sage darting through her legs. With a final hissed ‘cut that out’ she rushed to sit down and dialed the number that Troy was expecting. He answered right away, his smile filling the screen.

“Tripitaka! How was your first day of traveling?”

“Fine, good, um can I ask you something? Before we get to that?”

“Of course,” he replied, although he looked like he was expecting the question. Rén called out and climbed up Tripitaka’s seat before she could speak, digging his claws into her legs and shoulder with more force than necessary to chatter and rasp at the screen, planting his foot on the glass and pecking it. “Hello, old friend. I see you have opened my package, Tripitaka?”

“Yes. But there’s been a horrible mistake-”

“It is not a mistake.”

Rén’s body went rigid, slowly taking his foot off the screen. Tripitaka’s heart dropped.

“But Rén belongs to you, he’s your partner, he lives at the Tower, he… he hates me!” she protested, giving him a pleading look. Rén let out a soft hoot, his body trembling.

A look passed over Troy’s face that Tripitaka couldn’t place. Was he disappointed that she couldn’t get along with another Pokémon, let alone his? But the monk’s eyes hadn’t left his partner’s.

“Tripitaka. May I speak to Rén alone for a minute? He will call for you when we’re finished.” His voice was uncharacteristically curt, although still held a kind edge.

Tripitaka, although confused, left the pair to themselves, motioning for Sage to follow. After settling onto a subdued pink couch across the lobby, she stroked Sage’s fluffy mane. She didn’t need another Pokémon, she didn’t ask for another Pokémon. But Troy seemed to think differently. But why? A dozen theories danced through her head, most of them painting her in a bad light. But Troy wasn’t the kind of man to impose his will on anyone or anything, so why start now? She sighed, and Sage leaned into her side. Tripitaka’s mouth quirked. Sage had been so good to her today.

“You know, you’ve been amazing. Thanks for jumping in like that. Both with that Sentret and with that mean old Rén.” The Eevee purred in response, snuggling closer. Tripitaka scratched behind her ears the way Sage liked it. Sage was more than enough company for Tripitaka for what they’d be doing together.

And Sage actually liked Tripitaka, unlike someone else, she thought, shooting a look over at Troy and Rén’s chat. Troy was speaking urgently to the bird in between calmly listening and nodding. Finally Rén spun his head around and hooted, which Tripitaka figured was the signal to rejoin the call.

“So did you two have a chance to catch up?” Tripitaka asked as she shook off some Eevee fur that clung to her sweaty hands. She regretted speaking; as far as Rén was concerned, one minute he was home and the next his least favorite person with his favorite person nowhere in sight. Rén looked away, silent.

“We did,” Troy agreed. “And my decision remains that he will go with you.”

“But why?” Tripitaka burst out.

“Rén has always wanted to travel the world but I never gave him that opportunity with the life I chose,” Troy replied, infuriatingly calm. “This will be good for him.”

Tripitaka tried to remain equally calm but felt like the walls of the Pokémon Center were narrowing into a squeeze around her chest. Why was it only the first day of her carefully planned journey and yet it was already falling apart?! “But why me? I didn’t need another Pokémon other than Sage! Don’t you think I can handle it?”

“Of course you can handle the world’s dangers, Tripitaka. I never doubted that,” Troy said, deadly serious. “I sent him with you because he will demand more of you than any other Pokémon, and make you better as a result.” Rén’s orange eyes stared past Tripitaka and his feathers ruffled. He didn’t seem to take the comment well.

“This is all just an elaborate lesson?” she rasped. “I know you mean well, but Troy-”

“Life is a perpetual lesson,” Troy interrupted, his voice back to its normal gentleness. “It is conflict that strengthens us. Pokémon tend to take that notion rather literally,” he added with a chuckle. His deep brown eyes became imploring as he stared at the two of them. “Please. For me. Travel with each other. It would give me… great peace of mind knowing you were in capable hands.”

Tripitaka nodded as Rén uttered a reluctant hoot. Troy’s face brightened. “Wonderful. Now that’s settled, please, Tripitaka, today’s adventure. Tell me all about it.”

Upon recapping what observations she’d made about the wildlife and the Ruins, she also admitted her failure with the Sentret.

“You did your best,” Troy soothed. “The only failure is giving up. You’ll do better next time and now, you have two Pokémon to help you.” Sage glanced at Rén who stared at the opposite wall. Tripitaka rubbed the Eevee’s long ears. “Now, tell me your plan for the next step of your journey.”

“Well I was going to Ecruteak, ultimately,” Tripitaka began. “The Ruins were just my detour for today. I’ll double back up Route 32 and go from there.”

“And retrace where you’ve already gone?” Troy questioned. “There’s a mountain path that leads to Goldenrod City. A slightly longer path, but you’ll see more for your reports. There’s lots of wild Pokémon that make their home there.” Tripitaka frowned and pulled it up on her phone. It was indeed a longer route that wasn’t on the League’s list of recommended routes for trainers to take; it was more of a wildlife preserve than an officially maintained route, but the biodiversity might be worth it. Plus Sage might like to see more. “Besides,” Troy continued, “You might find another friend along the way.”

“I think two is more than enough for me right now,” Tripitaka replied, trying not to scoff. It wasn’t like she was expecting to have to handle a second, but Troy had made that decision for her. “Well I guess I’d best get to my report for the night?”

“Yes, I’ve taken up enough of your time. Stay well, my dear.”

After a final goodnight and a promise to call when in Goldenrod she hung up and sat back in the chair, biting her lip.

What to do now? All her plans had been thrown off schedule and she had no clear idea on how to handle a Hoothoot that despised her. Was he going to leave in the middle of the night? Should she just recall him and let him have time to himself away from her? Should she just send him back to Troy and ask forgiveness later? Is that what he wanted? Was this-

A rumble startled her out of her thoughts as Sage whined and nudged her elbow. Ah. They had been interrupted from dinner, after all.

“Right. Let’s go fix that,” Tripitaka muttered as she stood and headed to their room. Sage squealed and led the way; Rén remained on the desk. Tripitaka didn’t look back to see if he was following. Upon opening Sage’s canned food, she realized she now had two mouths to feed with Rén’s accompaniment, and she hadn’t exactly budgeted for an extra Pokémon. She glanced up. He was standing in the door threshold, staring at her.

“Did… Are you hungry too?” she asked, feeling awkward. As far as she knew, she didn’t have the food type that a Hoothoot would want. Maybe he could eat some of the chicken she’d packed for Sage’s treats… Silently, he made his way across the floor with his stubby legs, hopping up and clawing at the glass of their room’s sole window. Cringing at the awful noise, Tripitaka carefully opened it for him, giving the large bird a wide berth, half expecting him to attack her for daring to reach into his personal bubble.

Without a word he hopped out and took off with a silent flap of his wings into the night.

“Okay, bye?” Tripitaka said out the window, not sure if she cared whether he came back or not. Her lips parted as her heart sank. What if he didn’t come back? What would Troy say?

Her schedule was now being held hostage by a bird.

Sage’s bowl bumped into Tripitaka’s ankle before the Eevee continued her mission of licking the bowl clean, chasing after the bowl with every step around the room. Tripitaka sighed and left her to it. She might as well fix her own dinner and generate her report for the day. If Rén came back, good for him. It was a nice night outside; she could leave the window open for him. Hopefully he wouldn’t expect her to make that a habit, if he even stayed with her at all.

She was just finishing up her report almost two hours later when Sage glanced up from her curled up spot on the bed. Rén was perched on the bed frame like he’d been there the entire time, having appeared out of nowhere with his silent flight. She was going to have to get used to that, provided he didn’t fly off and didn’t return.

“Did you get something to eat?” she asked to break the loud silence.

If he were capable of rolling his eyes he would, given the look he shot her. Hoothoot and other owl Pokémon had their eyeballs locked in place with a bony structure so in order to look around they had to fully turn their heads. Even though she knew this and was used to seeing Hoothoot around the Tower, his facial expressions were challenging to read. Rén continued to look at her, blinking an eye.

“Look, um. Rén. I can send you back to Violet City if you want. I can tell the Pokémon Center to release you and you can go back to Sprout Tower.” The same eye blinked again, so Tripitaka went on, “But the Pokémon transfer system is down right now; I checked while you were gone. The closest one is in Goldenrod City.” She swallowed hard. Sage put her paws on her legs and cocked her head. “You don’t have to come with me. I… know you don’t like me and Troy said you should, but you didn’t ask for this. You’re free to do whatever you want.”

Rén didn’t offer any indication he was listening; opting to preen the tiny feathers on his shoulders instead. Tripitaka tried not to wince.

“So, Rén, are you going to come with me and Sage?” Sage offered a quiet trill which sounded like a question.

He moved his head to nibble at the next part of his wing.

“Well, okay I guess that’s a yes for now? I can recall you for the night so you can have a break from me,” Tripitaka muttered, holding up the red and white ball and pressing the recall button. Rén glanced up sharply, pupils shrinking and ear tufts flattening as he transformed into a red blob and vanished into the Pokéball. Tripitaka sighed, her heart racing. “I suppose we should get to bed?” she wondered aloud to Sage, who whined and hopped down to prod at Tripitaka’s bag, digging through it until she pulled out a worn and well-loved squishy ball, its surface pockmarked with tiny teeth indentations and color faded from use. Tripitaka shook her head. “Not tonight. We’ll play tomorrow, alright?”

Sage’s ears sagged and she hopped up on the bed, curling up on the far corner. Tripitaka felt a sting of guilt, but justified it with the thought that they had a full day and there had been enough excitement and didn’t need to be riled up before bedtime. She had been planning to have been asleep by now, anyway. After fluffing her pillow and turning out the light, she curled up and tried to fall asleep as fast as possible.

---

The morning passed by in a blur as Tripitaka checked out of her room and resumed her travels, hoping that eventually she’d be able to wake up without sore feet from all the walking she’d be doing. She did make an effort to play fetch with Sage, albeit on the go. Sage didn’t seem to mind. In between coordinating her mind to keep an eye on the mobile game of fetch, documenting what she’d seen or heard, and staying on the pathway, she completely forgot about Rén until a flock of Spearow flew overhead.

“Oh shoot,” she muttered as she fumbled through her bag for his Pokéball. “He probably would want to see the outside world. It’s why he’s here, right?”

“Vii,” Sage replied doubtfully, scratching behind her ears with her back foot.

“Come on out, Rén,” Tripitaka called, tossing the ball into the air like she’d seen some trainers do. The ball burst open and the light coalesced into the Hoothoot before returning to Tripitaka’s hand as if guided by an invisible force. She’d never bothered to understand the mechanical or engineering aspects of the invention; it wasn’t in her area of study.

Rén glanced around, flapping midair, turning and staring at Tripitaka, who was pocketing his Pokéball. His wings snapped to his side and he dove for Tripitaka’s face with a hiss. Sage let out a shriek. Tripitaka yelled and threw up her hands and she felt his beak furiously pecking at her arms and his wings beating her head before he delivered a final, sharp nip to her finger. Sage leaped for him but with a few flaps of his wings ascended out of reach. Sage chattered up at him, spitting a challenge, but his eyes were only on Tripitaka, staring at her in disgust.

“Why?” she yelled up at him, clutching her bleeding finger, not expecting an answer. Rén landed on a boulder some distance away, scratching at the rock with his talons, his orange eyes slits as they bore into her. Sage trilled and chattered, nudging Tripitaka’s wrist as she sat down on a log.

“I’m okay I think,” she assured Sage as she got out her basic first aid kit from her bag. “It’s not that deep as… it could be,” she admitted. None of his pecks on her arms had broken skin, so it was more of an admonishing than a punishment. She’d watched him battle before; he was well-versed in how to do damage to opponents and he certainly could’ve done more. She glanced up at Rén, who hadn’t taken his eyes off her, ear tufts flat. “Message received, Rén. You don’t like being in Pokéballs.”

His response was to ruffle his feathers and turn his back to her.

“I’m sorry,” she called at him. “I didn’t know.”

He took off and disappeared into the trees. Sage shook her head.

“No, it’s fine; it’s his choice. Just like it is for you,” Tripitaka told her as she wound a bandage around her finger. She should’ve guessed all of this. She had never seen him in a Pokéball before and he probably wasn’t used to the concept at all. How could she expect him to be happy with traveling inside a comfortable ball instead of seeing the world, like Troy said he wanted? How come she couldn’t handle two Pokémon when trainers managed to have multiple Pokémon with different needs and personalities, let alone six on a full team? Or even more in reserve? How was she supposed to deal with one that hated her guts?

Another problem for another day. She glanced at Sage, the non-problem child.

“Speaking of being in a Pokéball, if you ever want to be recalled or you get tired of all the walking, just let me know? Somehow?” Sage cocked her head and bumped her nose into Tripitaka’s hand. “Okay, I guess you don’t mind being out, then?”

Sage squeaked and wagged her tail. Tripitaka rose, looking out to where Rén had flown off.

“We’re going to keep walking on the path, Rén!” she called into the trees. To Sage, she muttered, “We’ve wasted enough time as it is.”

The late morning turned into late afternoon when Tripitaka stopped for a rest and food. Sage didn’t appear to be tired, but didn’t turn her nose up at the prospect of mooching off of Tripitaka’s selection as well as eating her own food. Tripitaka noted that some of the wild Pokémon in the area were definitely interested in them but kept their distance. The Pokémon here, unlike in the recommended trainer routes, were not as accustomed to human visitors and could be more unpredictable, but as long as they minded their own business it was fine. None of them had challenged Sage anyway. Probably something she could comment on to the Professor, about how Pokémon behavior differed when the levels of human contact varied between routes.

Tripitaka got a feeling she was being watched, and turned around to see Rén perched on a rock a few arm length’s away.

“Can you at least announce yourself whenever you do that?” she snapped, regretting her harsh tone. She had a feeling Rén was the type to abuse his ability to fly in silence and that she would never get used to it. “How long have you been there, anyway?”

He looked unimpressed, his head rotating and bobbing as he watched her. Sage partly sat up.

“Look, Rén,” Tripitaka began. His ear tufts wavered, neither standing up nor lying flat. “I know we come from different worlds. You want to travel and battle, and I…” she hesitated, swallowing and thinking of the Sentret incident. “Well I don’t think I’m cut out for that sort of thing. We didn’t ask for each other. But that doesn’t mean we can’t work together. You know…” She searched for what to say. “You teach me and I… teach you? That sort of thing?”

As if she had anything to teach him. His look all but screamed he agreed with that sentiment.

She waited for him to say something, do anything, but the silence stretched on until she wished she could just pull out his Pokéball and recall him to spare herself the awkwardness of it all, but unfortunately he would not be so kind to her next time she let him out. His head swiveled all the way around to stare at something behind them.

“Do you see something?” Tripitaka asked. “Or I guess hear something?” She didn’t even know why she was asking. A pale blue rabbit-like creature emerged from behind a boulder, nose twitching and whiskers quivering. “Oh, a Nidoran!”

She whipped up her phone to take a picture before she paused, looking over at Rén, who was eyeing their guest with interest. Sage was looking quickly between the two of them, tail wagging. The Nidoran rose to her hind legs and let out a squeak, the tiny quills on her back rustling. This was a wild Pokémon asking for a battle, albeit more politely than what was portrayed in the shows and movies. Maybe this Nidoran was young and this was its first encounter with a human?

“Rén, do you want to battle?” she asked him, hoping he would take the extended olive branch, but he took off and landed on a tree some ways away instead. “O-okay then, Sage, your time to shine!”

“Vui!” the Eevee exclaimed, hopping up and crouching low, awaiting an order. Time to redeem herself from the Sentret incident.

Tripitaka opened her mouth, realizing she should probably issue a command, but her mind went completely blank of any attacking move any Pokémon could possibly learn. The Nidoran took the pause as her cue and darted forward, swiping a paw at Sage’s nose. Sage jerked her head back, letting the claws rake through her mane, fur flying.

“Um,” Tripitaka said, fumbling for her phone to pull up the Pokédex app to look up an Eevee’s attack list. “Hang on a second, Sage! Just- Just keep your distance!”

Sage darted around, running circles around the Nidoran, who was confused but joined in the chasing game. The Nidoran fired one of the pins on her back at Sage, who squeaked when it stung her. Tripitaka’s shaking hands closed out of the app at just the wrong time, and she let out a frustrated growl. “Sage, just- show me what you can do!”

Sage put on the brakes and slammed her body into the Nidoran with a punctuated yip. Oh. Tackle. Most every Pokémon knew that move. Obviously. Sage sprang back from the second attempted Poison Sting.

“Tackle again?” Tripitaka suggested, unsure of what else Sage could do and not wanting to sound even more incompetent than she already was. Sage obeyed, flinging her body at the rabbit again but missing just as Nidoran hopped out of the way, a gleam in her eyes. “What else do you have?”

Sage crouched, catching the Nidoran’s eye and swishing her bushy tail back and forth. The Nidoran paused, watching the movements, her body relaxing, before Sage triumphantly squealed and Tackled her again. The Nidoran shook herself off and took off back into the grass, having had enough. Tripitaka sighed, sitting down. Sage pranced over to her, tail high and chattering to herself.

“You did a great job,” Tripitaka said, petting her ears. “Tackle and Tail Whip, huh?”

“Vui-ii,” Sage replied, bumping her nose into Tripitaka’s palm. Tripitaka finally pulled up her Pokédex app and pointed it at Sage. (Why hadn’t she done this earlier?)

After reading about Eevee’s basic information, typing, and ‘dex number, she found the estimated move lists Sage currently knew. “Yeah, here it is. Tackle, Tail Whip, Helping Hand… I guess that wouldn’t have been very useful alone, right? Growl and Sand Attack.” She scrolled through the list of other noted attacks an Eevee learned on their own as they got more experienced. Given her own response to a baby Nidoran and leaving the battle almost entirely up to Sage, she highly doubted she could coach Sage to learn anything else. “Well at least we won our first Pokémon battle,” she sighed, the adrenaline wearing off. Not we. Just Sage; it wasn’t exactly a team effort. “Well, you did, rather. I’m sorry I’m lousy at this stuff.”

Sage purred and Tripitaka stood up. “I suppose we should keep going?”

As the afternoon wore on and day began to turn to dusk, the city of Goldenrod was visible as they crested the mountain. It was all downhill from here; they should be able to reach the city before nightfall according to Tripitaka’s map. They were going much faster now that Rén had taken it upon himself to be their time manager. If Tripitaka stopped for too long examining a plant or footprints a wild Pokémon had left, a smart thwack from his wing was delivered to the back of her head. By the time she looked up in annoyance he would already be swooping back into the sky.

“You know, you could warn me when he’s going to do a fly-by,” Tripitaka grumbled to Sage after he swatted her skull for the umpteenth time. Sage didn’t reply; she was too busy chasing away a Rattata that had drawn near. “You still doing okay?” she asked the fox, who shook her mane, more fur flying with the motion. That had been her third bout ever since that first Nidoran, but she didn’t show any sign of being tired. The wild Pokémon had been coming out and challenging Sage now that the sun was setting, even if it so far appeared friendly. Maybe they could smell all the food Tripitaka had in her pack… She had called out for Rén asking if he wished to have a turn and give Sage a break considering he was a much, much more experienced Pokémon than she was, but he refused each time, circling high above them.

Stars dotted the deep red and violet sky and the local Pokémon had become more bold, the Rattata in particular. They were now emerging from the grass in twos and threes, even more gleaming pairs of eyes lurking in the shadows, but Sage was beginning to tire, panting heavily and her Tackles were much less vigorous than earlier in the day. Tripitaka picked up the pace. The end of the mountain trail wasn’t too far off now.

A particularly large Rattata leaped out to block the way, twitching a scratched-up ear and hissing. This challenger wasn’t so friendly. Its gaze was solely on Tripitaka’s backpack, and Tripitaka guessed this one might be the ringleader of all the little rats they had encountered so far. Sage, dutiful as ever, planted herself in between the two of them and growled, all sense of play and exhaustion from her earlier encounters evaporated. The Rattata’s tail flicked back and forth, and Sage watched the purple tail carefully. Tripitaka took in a breath.

“It’s a Tail Whip, Sage, don’t fall for it!”

The Rattata lunged and slammed into Sage, knocking her away.

“Sand Attack!” Tripitaka blurted out. Sage dug a paw into the dirt and kicked it right at the Rattata’s eyes, who growled, digging at them. Tripitaka saw all the pairs of eyes surrounding them and panicked. “Tackle and let’s leave it!”

Sage burst forward, driving her shoulder into the Rattata’s with a ‘vii!’ before her blinded opponent chomped its oversized teeth into Sage’s paw, who shrieked and ripped herself away. Tripitaka rushed forward to grab Sage, who was holding up her injured paw, as the Rattata finally cleared the dirt out of its eyes and leaped, aiming for Tripitaka’s reaching hands.

Sage intercepted, taking the bite on her shoulder with a squeak before faint bolts of golden energy crackled around her fur and thrust into the Rattata in a weak array of lines, forcing it back. Was that a new attack?

The Rattata hissed, baring its teeth, stalking forward. Sage bravely tried to puff herself up and growled, although the sound caught in her throat and she flinched. She glanced back at Tripitaka. Her heart hammered, eyes darting to take a frantic count of the surrounding pairs of eyes. Could she grab Sage and outrun them all?

A brown ball slammed on top of the Rattata with a crack. Tripitaka’s blood froze.

Rén, the Rattata limp in his beak, thrashed it around before slamming the purple shape into the ground, tearing into its body with his talons and ripping off a chunk of bloodied flesh with his beak. Tripitaka tried to not stare. The Rattata, large and imposing before, looked so small and pitiful compared to the Hoothoot.

Sage hopped forward, timid and unsure, and offered a tiny ‘vii’ but Rén spun around, puffing up and hissing, covering the body up with his wings, his eyes burning, daring them to come near.

“Sage, come here and leave him be,” Tripitaka called upon finding her voice. Sage backed off, speaking to Rén again, who just hissed and snapped at her in reply. Satisfied they were far enough away, he resumed ripping into the corpse. Something warm splattered Tripitaka’s cheek as he thrashed it about again and upon touching her cheek, saw it was blood. Swallowing bile, she scooped Sage up into her arms and made her way around Rén, giving him a wide berth. The glowing eyes in the bushes had disappeared, message received loud and clear.

No other Pokémon appeared before them the entire rest of the run to Goldenrod.

I'm a new soul, I came to this strange world
Hoping I could learn a bit 'bout how to give and take
But since I came here, felt the joy and the fear
Finding myself making every possible mistake

Chapter Text

“You look like you’ve had a rather busy day,” Troy commented, taking in her bedraggled appearance. “Are you alright?”

“Fine, I guess,” Tripitaka mumbled, running a hand through her sweaty buzzed hair and longing for a shower.

Troy waited for her to elaborate, looking behind her to search the bustling lobby of the Pokémon Center. “Did something happen to Rén? Or Sage?”

“Sage is getting patched up… a pack of Rattata got aggressive near the end of the trail and she fought them off.”

“Good,” Troy replied with a nod. “A brave little Eevee indeed; I’m glad you’re alright.” He paused. “And what of Rén? Did he help out?”

Nausea bubbled up in Tripitaka’s throat. She wanted to lie, to say that Troy’s partner had been very helpful and tell him what he wanted to hear, but her revulsion won out, in addition to her annoyance at Rén’s behavior the entire trek down the mountain. “Well, he killed what appeared to be the leader and ate it in front of me…”

Troy let out a short sigh. “Oh thank goodness, he’s eating. He has a tendency to not want to eat if his routine changes.” Tripitaka scrubbed at the spot on her cheek where the rat’s blood had dotted it. She had since washed her face but she could still feel the warm droplet ghosting her skin. That was not the response she had been expecting from such a peaceful monk, and he noticed. “Something wrong?”

“He was… brutal, Troy!” she burst out. “He murdered it.”

“Yes, Hoothoot are predators. You’ve seen them catch prey in the Tower,” Troy said, brow furrowed but his voice still level.

“Yeah, but Troy, what Rén did was… was different. It was like he was making a show out of it to scare me,” Tripitaka struggled to explain. Part of her was hoping that Troy would see that Rén was acting out and take him back so she wouldn’t have to deal with him any longer.

Troy’s head tilted. “To scare you, or to scare the pack of Rattata chasing you?”

Tripitaka blinked. She hadn’t considered that, but she still felt indignant. “How do you know that?”

“Because I know my partner, my dear. Rén is a very efficient battler and hunter and has never done any theatrics with his prey. He doesn’t even like to kill in front of others at all; he prefers to hunt late at night. So therefore, what he did had a different purpose. To protect you.”

“It’s just...” she fumbled through the stunned glow in her chest for anything else to make a case to Troy on the grounds he acknowledge she was at least partly right. “It wasn’t very rén of him to do that to that Rattata? I guess?”

The monk’s expression turned wry. “Rén was named as a wish for what he could become, not for what he is,” he said, punctuating with a shake of his head. “It’s a gift that he can strive for, but I don’t hold him to the same morals I do simply because he is not a human.”

Tripitaka pouted, getting the feeling that Troy’s decision to partner the owl and her up was not going to be changed. At that moment, Sage greeted her from the carpet, looking good as new, and hopped up onto Tripitaka’s lap and licked her cheek. Troy’s face softened at their reunion, and continued. “Rén is a concept that goes beyond simply being humane and benevolent to other living things. It is innate in all living things. It is… caring about something other than yourself. Like how you would care about a frightened child even if you had no personal or familial link to them. Rén is an intentional connection to other living things. With time and hopefully maturity he could demonstrate rén to both parties and settle the disagreement in the kindest way possible, however Pokémon have different instincts and morality than humans do. It’s not our job to hold them to our standards and ideals. Perhaps my partner did not show compassion to the Rattata, but he did demonstrate he cared about you, in the way he is currently able to do so.”

“I guess,” Tripitaka replied, stroking Sage’s ears, shaking off a clump of fur that had tangled in her fingers. “He yelled at Sage when she tried to thank him. He knows what he did was messed up because he hid the body and everything-”

“With his wings?” Troy interrupted. “Yes, that’s called mantling. All Hoothoot have that instinct; I’m rather surprised you didn’t know the term.”

“What’s it supposed to mean, then?”

“Oh, just guarding something that is precious or of high value to them. I wouldn’t take it personally; he’s done it to me sometimes when we play.”

Tripitaka snorted. “We’re still talking about the same Hoothoot, right? Rén, who is a ball of anger and disregard for everything that isn’t you, can play?”

“Of course.”

She shook her head and decided to move along. “So how do I put in my report that one of my Pokémon murdered a Rattata?”

“To protect you,” Troy reminded her.

“If you say so,” Tripitaka sighed. “But what do I even call it to make it not sound so horrible? I mean I guess I’ll mention the mantling behavior, for sure…”

Troy stroked his beard. “Defensive predation I suppose? You’re much better with that fancy technical writing than I am.”

“That’s better than what I had, which is nothing,” Tripitaka said with a shrug.

“Did anything else interesting happen for your report?” Troy asked, looking like he was stifling a yawn. Better end this soon; the monks were probably getting ready to go to sleep by now considering their early mornings. She bit her lip, deciding against telling Troy about how Rén attacked her when she first let him out before settling on listing off various plants and Pokémon she’d seen and the Nidoran that Sage battled. She left out the part where she hadn’t handled commanding her own Pokémon very well.

“We got there earlier than I expected because Rén kept ‘prodding’ me to move faster…” Tripitaka muttered, rubbing the back of her head.

“Hoothoot do have an acute sense of time,” Troy replied. He looked thoughtful. “Perhaps if you shared with him your goals, you can redirect his energy since right now he has no purpose other than to get you where you need to go so he can come home.”

Tripitaka snorted. “It’s not like he cares about what I say. If looks could kill I’d be dead a hundred times over by now.” She froze. She hadn’t meant to let that slip.

For a moment, Troy looked disappointed, and her heart sank. “Part of this journey is to figure out how to strengthen the bonds between you and your Pokémon. I cannot tell you exactly how to do that with Rén, only that you need to keep trying if your journey is to be a true success. No Pokémon or person is perfect, but they become perfect to you when you learn how to love and accept them exactly as they are.”

Tripitaka could only nod. Sage nudged her head under Tripitaka’s hand. Troy’s eyes closed with a nod before his kind smile returned to his face. “Please give Rén my regards when he returns, and I wish you a peaceful night.”

“Goodnight, Troy,” Tripitaka said, stomach churning as she ended the call. If she couldn’t handle being around one ornery Pokémon, how could she possibly expect to be a good research intern? With a final sigh she returned to her room, carrying a contented Sage in her arms.

An hour later, Tripitaka was clicking send on her daily report and Sage was grooming herself when Rén flew in through the window Tripitaka had opened earlier. There was no evidence of any violence on the owl’s body as he perched on one of the bed posts, looking at the sleeping bag Tripitaka had rolled out onto the bare mattress.

“How did you know what room we were in?” Tripitaka asked him. Rén puffed up all his feathers and rapidly shook his head, and didn’t reply. Oh wait… Hoothoot were well known for their hearing. “Forget it. Did you… eat well? Troy says hi.” Rén’s head snapped up and he stared at her, feathers flattening in an instant, hostility creeping back into his eyes that overtook what Tripitaka thought was a flash of hurt.

“Oh, don’t give me that look. You weren’t there and I wanted to call him before they all went to bed,” Tripitaka snapped at him. “If you want to talk to Troy you need to actually be here when I call him. Which means no flying off and doing your own thing whenever you want,” she added crossly.

Rén’s throat feathers slowly puffed up and flattened, over and over again, as if he were swallowing his words. His head rotated until he was looking at her sideways. If he wasn’t always giving her a disdainful or apathetic look, she might have interpreted his face as puzzled.

“Vui?” Sage chirped, looking up from the paw she had been licking.

“Sorry,” Tripitaka muttered, unsure of who she was apologizing to. She hadn’t meant to be so harsh. “Just… it was a long day.” She rubbed at her cheek again. Rén’s head rotated the other way, and he blinked at her. Sage climbed into her lap again and licked at the spot once more. Eevee kisses always made things better, right?

“I get you’re a predator Pokémon. It’s fine to hunt,” Tripitaka began. “It’s just… could you please not kill things around me? If possible?”

Rén’s expression reverted to his usual disdain and his head spun around to study the opposite wall. Anger flared in Tripitaka’s stomach.

“Why do you hate me so much?” she demanded, getting up to walk in front of the owl and look him in the eyes. “I didn’t ask for you, and I’m trying to meet you halfway on things. I know I can’t speak Pokéspeech and I’m not Troy, but can’t you at least attempt to be civil?”

Rén’s eyes flickered from anger back to indifference in an instant. He fully turned his body away from her. Tripitaka threw up her hands and stomped off to go brush her teeth. If Troy was here Rén would be completely different. He’d probably play with Troy and act like the perfect Pokémon that Troy thought he was. She snorted, washing her face. If Troy was the one traveling to Orre, Rén would be glued to his shoulder unless he was asked to battle, which he would happily do.

…Except Tripitaka was here, not Troy. She was the one going on a journey with Rén, not Troy. She paused, before walking back to her room. Sage was still on the bed, now washing her ears, a small tuft of fur coming loose when she shook herself. Rén had moved from the bed post to the desk, turning back around when he saw her come in.

Tripitaka swallowed, sitting on the bed, squeezing her hands. “I think I get it now, Rén. You don’t hate me.” The Hoothoot’s head spun around to look at her, orange eyes neutral. “You just… hate that I’m not Troy.” His head swiveled back around and he tucked his head into his wings to go to sleep. Tripitaka sighed. She was hoping her revelation might turn a corner with him. Maybe she should try and work with Rén like Troy said.

“Look, Rén,” she began, before stopping. A part of her wanted to take a chance and thank him for stepping in at the end of the trail, but she still couldn’t get the image of the bloodied Rattata being thrashed around out of her head. She sighed. “I want to wake up at eight so we can get moving in the morning. Can you help me out in case my phone doesn’t go off?”

His only response was to tuck up a foot into his belly feathers and ignore her.

Tripitaka nodded to no one before switching off the light and settling into her sleeping bag, Sage cuddling up to her side. She pulled her phone out to do some basic research into Hoothoot behavior for the next hour before finally going to sleep.

---

Tripitaka snapped awake to the sound of retching. Still half asleep, she seized the Eevee and suspended her over the trash can right as Sage hacked up a hairball, stomach spasming. Rén fluttered over to the bed post and eyed them both, feathers ruffled.

“Feel better?” Tripitaka asked, setting her down.

“Viii…” Sage moaned, giving herself a brisk shake, clumps of fur coming loose and settling on the carpet.

“Just tell me when you need brushing, okay?” Sage gave her a look and Tripitaka sighed. They had been a little busy yesterday. “Fine. You’re getting groomed today. Sorry it took me so long to realize you were shedding so badly.”

She glanced at the clock. 7:53 AM. Apparently she wasn’t going to need to worry if Rén was going to give a wakeup call or not. She glanced over at him, who was still observing the two of them. “What about you? Are you going to molt soon? Did you need a… grooming session or something?”

As soon as she said it, she realized brushing out feathers was a ridiculous notion. She did recall many an afternoon of sweeping up feathers off the floor of Sprout Tower from all the Hoothoot that lived in the rafters. Rén didn’t hide his judgment as he scratched at his beak with his talons, opening his beak wide in a yawn.

“Okay, I’ll take that as a no-”

A dark brown lump fell out of his mouth and landed directly on Tripitaka’s sleeping bag, a line of spit connecting it and his mouth. He smacked his beak, blinking at her.

“Well that was rather unnecessary,” she said evenly after a pause, trying to hold back her disgust. Sage hopped up onto the bed and reached out to bat at the pellet. “No, nope, leave it; I’ve got it,” she said quickly and grabbed a tissue to pick up the pellet, seeing clumps of purple fur bristling out of the blob. She briefly considered dissecting it to see what else he may have eaten during the night but figured he wouldn’t take kindly to that before depositing it into the trash, taking another tissue and dabbing at the spot the pellet landed and shooting Rén a glare that went unobserved.

It’s natural behavior; Hoothoot regurgitate pellets of indigestible matter from their prey, she reminded herself, trying and failing miserably to convince herself it wasn’t done out of spite.

After packing up and getting ready for the day, the three headed to the famous Goldenrod Underground. According to her phone, there were dozens of shops and services down there, including a Pokémon salon that thankfully took walk-ins. Rén hesitated at the escalator descending below the earth, but after a hiss, begrudgingly followed when Sage prodded him.

Upon knocking at the shop’s door, a tired looking man wearing a wide-brimmed hat with a mesh veil covering his face opened up, clumps of fluffy fur drifting through the air behind him. He glanced down at Sage, who wagged her tail. He jutted his chin at her.

“Lemme guess… Eevee blowing coat?”

“If you mean shedding a lot, yeah,” Tripitaka replied. “This is Sage.”

The man sneezed. “Yup. It’s dandelion season for loads of Pokémon. I’m just glad you’re not another Arcanine,” he muttered, scooping Sage up and holding out a tablet. “Name and number; I’ll call when the little monster is done.”

Tripitaka wasn’t thrilled to spend a chunk of money on a Pokémon groomer, but she figured it was more time efficient than spending an entire afternoon brushing Sage out. To keep herself from potentially spending more, she opted to sit on a nearby bench and entertain herself by doing more Pokémon research, this time focusing on Hoothoot biology. Rén perched on the back of the bench on the opposite side, glancing between the salon and watching the people that were milling about and going into shops.

“What a pretty Hoothoot!” a teenage girl exclaimed, reaching out to pet him.

“He bites,” Tripitaka warned just as Rén puffed up and hissed at her, flapping his broad wings.

The girl shrieked and leaped back. “You should control your Pokémon better!” she yelled, running off.

“He’s not mine,” Tripitaka muttered, going back to the article she had been reading. She gave Rén a sidelong glance out of the corner of her eye. “Thank you for not attacking her; I’d rather not deal with a lawsuit today.”

He gave her a frustrated look, the wood of the bench creaking under his squeezing talons. He didn’t appear to handle boredom very well at all, which Tripitaka thought was amusing considering how the monks he lived around taught patience and serenity. His interest was soon captured by some trainers starting a battle in one of the many open plazas. The Underground was a sprawling place, even having enough space for trainer battles, provided they didn’t go too crazy with powerful moves. Rén was focused as the Lickitung and Voltorb collided with each other, small sparks of electricity flying.

Maybe he needed to burn off some of that grouchy energy in a battle. He was well-known for his battling skills at the Tower, after all. Gathering her courage, she approached the trainers after both Pokémon were recalled, the battle decided. Rén hopped along after her, wings partly extended as if he were thinking about flying but deciding against it.

“May I have a battle?” she asked. “Rén looked like he would like to participate.”

Rén fluffed out his feathers and shook himself, wings twitching at his sides, irritation replaced with anticipation.

“Sure,” the shorter of the boys responded, fishing another Pokéball from his pocket. He looked Tripitaka up and down. “You ever have a battle down here?”

“I haven’t really had a battle at all,” Tripitaka replied, rubbing the back of her neck. “I don’t really know what I’m doing; I’m not really into the whole training thing.” Rén shot her a foul look. It probably was embarrassing for a Sprout Tower Pokémon to be associated with someone who didn’t have a clue about trainer battles.

“Yeah, you look like a rookie,” the taller boy said. “That’s okay. He’ll go easy on you.”

The shorter boy introduced himself as Kyle and sent out an Aipom, the purple little monkey standing on its tail that ended in a bulbous hand-like appendage and waving its arms around. Kyle gestured for Tripitaka to call out an attack, and she figured letting him go on an all-out attack would satisfy Rén.

“Tackle, Rén,” she said, trying to not yell and draw attention to herself. As soon as the words left her mouth Rén had closed the small gap between himself and Aipom and connected with a thwack, grabbing its tail in his claws.

“Aipom, Scratch and then follow up with a Sand Attack!” Kyle yelled.

Aipom’s small claws raked through Rén’s wing feathers and Rén, without waiting for a command, took off, dragging Aipom with him, his large size not deterred by Aipom’s weight. No Sand Attack for Aipom.

“Rén, put it down!” Tripitaka scolded. He didn’t reply, instead climbing higher and twisting his body to fling the monkey back to the black and white marble floor. Thankfully Aipom landed safely on all four paws, chattering indignantly up at the circling Rén.

“Swift,” Kyle ordered, frowning up at Rén.

Swift was an attack that never missed, right? Rén, in response, climbed higher, hovering at the height of the ceiling. Aipom swung its tail, an array of golden stars shooting out. Something clicked in Tripitaka’s mind. Swift. The Eevee line can learn Swift. She had used a very primitive version of that with the Rattata last night. The stars collided with Rén, who let out an indignant hoot and dove, claws fully extended. An image of Rén slamming into another small purple body with a dull thud flashed in Tripitaka’s head.

“Stop!” she screamed, throwing herself in front of the startled Aipom. Rén banked sharply to miss her, hissing as he landed roughly nearby with a raspy screech, eyes blistering her with his fury. “Don’t hurt it!”

Rén’s expression was still outraged but he peered at her, bobbing his head, for the first time looking thoroughly confused.

“Um, it’s a battle. They’re supposed to try and hurt each other, but it’s all in good fun,” Kyle pointed out. The taller boy muttered a ‘weirdo’ under his breath and Kyle elbowed him. “Why’d you stop?”

Was he not watching? “He… he was diving at Aipom with his claws out…?”

“Yeah, probably to try and grab her again,” Kyle said slowly, as if he were speaking to a toddler. “In that case I would’ve told Aipom to dodge and try a Sand Attack again, or to attack midair if that didn’t work. We were ready for it.” He studied her. “What’s wrong?”

“Sorry,” Tripitaka stammered, realizing she looked like a complete moron. “We just… last night we had a run-in with some wild Pokémon and it… didn’t end well.” Rén stared, his feathers relaxing.

“Oh.” Kyle met Aipom’s searching glance and looked over to Rén. “Pokémon know the difference between trainer battles and like, actual dangerous situations. Even if things look mean or get super competitive they know when to stop.”

Tripitaka knew that. Everyone knew that; it was basic Pokémon knowledge. Predation was different than battles, and even from birth Pokémon instinctively knew the difference. It’s just that Rén was so wild and unpredictable she didn’t know that he would honor that difference.

Kyle pursed his lips. He walked forward and Aipom scampered up to his shoulder. “You and your Hoothoot are really out of sync.” Tripitaka nodded, biting her tongue and trying to not be hurt at the sting of his words. She could feel Rén’s stare burning through her skull. “My advice? Loosen up. Trust it a bit more. You want to try the battle again?”

Tripitaka opened her mouth to reply, but her phone buzzed and saved her. Sage was all done. She shook her head, eyes on the floor. “Thanks for the advice and the battle, Kyle.”

“Wasn’t much of a battle,” the tall boy commented under his breath again before Kyle elbowed him once again.

“Good luck out there,” Kyle called, walking away with Aipom and his friend.

Rén huffed and in a couple flaps was back in the air to reclaim his spot on the bench before Tripitaka could say anything to him.

Upon picking up a very happy and clean Sage, Tripitaka led the way to the National Park. It was on her schedule to check out the biodiversity there and have a somewhat relaxing afternoon anyway before they made the trek to Ecruteak, which was a couple days’ walk away. Maybe Rén could burn off some energy in the open sky and Sage could get some playtime in as well. As soon as they passed under the gateway laced with a trellis of ivy, she pulled Sage’s squishy ball out and waved it enticingly in front of Sage’s face.

Sage’s eyes dilated and she quivered with anticipation. Tripitaka hurled the ball, watching the Eevee careen off after it, and glanced up. Rén, who had been visibly relieved to be back above ground, was circling high in the air. He hadn’t seemed thrilled they were taking an afternoon to relax, which Tripitaka hated to admit she agreed with, but at least he wasn’t dive bombing her like he was yesterday. She sighed, watching him. The movies always made befriending a rebellious Pokémon look so easy. Usually they had a montage of getting to trust each other and become best friends, like the Forbidden Friendship sequence in How to Train Your Dragon-Type. (It didn’t take away from her enjoyment of the movie, but she could easily tell that the shiny green scales on the main Salamence actor were computer generated.) But for now she was having a difficult time imagining Rén even tolerating her presence, much less trusting her. Or she trusting him, no matter what Troy said.

As Sage continued their game of fetch and Tripitaka obliged her, she watched the other people in the park. A teenager was reclining in the grass reading a book, his head resting on a gently snoozing Dunsparce, completely unaware of the small crowd playing disc golf. A trainer that looked to be in her tweens was battling a Sunkern with her Pidgey, whipping up a localized whirlwind while the seed Pokémon let out a trill, rattling its leaves. Rén landed on a lamppost and watched as the wind picked up at exactly the wrong time for Sage’s ball to splash into the shallows of the central pond and float in the lapping waves.

“Oh, Sage,” Tripitaka could only groan as the freshly-groomed Eevee charged after it to bat the ball out, the water soaking into her belly fur and loose grass clippings sticking to her now muddied paws. At least she was having a good time. The trainer that had been battling the Sunkern had apparently concluded the battle, and Tripitaka watched as the bird landed lightly on the girl’s outstretched arm to preen her hair. Envy panged in her heart. Rén would never be like that for her. He barely showed outward affection to Troy when he was still at the Tower.

A wet nudge to her calf grabbed her attention, and upon glancing down Sage booped her with her nose again before nudging her toy. Upon noticing Tripitaka’s hesitation, Sage glanced to where Tripitaka was watching the trainer and Pokémon pair before looking over at the aloof Hoothoot.

“Eeee. Vuiii,” she murmured, reaching her soggy front paws up Tripitaka’s leg, her previous excitement exchanged for what could only be interpreted as comfort and encouragement as she chattered on. Tripitaka smiled and knelt to rub her thinned-out yet still plush mane.

“Thanks, Sage. No wonder you and Troy got on so well… You both care a lot.”

Sage’s eyes brightened and her tail wagging sped up.

“Right, enough moping around,” Tripitaka said, standing up. “It’s been a rough start but we can still do this journey thing, right Sage?” The Eevee squealed and darted around Tripitaka’s ankles. “Next stop, Ecruteak!”

---

“Where are you headed, monk?” asked the gate guard on the way out of the park, his expression caring and yet curious.

“Eventually Olivine,” Tripitaka replied, noting the man’s wince at her words. “Then we’ll take a boat for Unova and a train… to Orre? What’s the matter?”

The guard turned his computer monitor around on the counter for her to see news footage of a crowd of people milling about in what appeared to be Olivine’s harbor. “You might want to reconsider. There’s been a huge backlog of trainers waiting to get there. Some freaky storms are making the sea route unsafe so everyone is diverting to Hoenn or taking the long way around.”

“Oh, I’m not a trainer,” she said with a relieved smile. “I’m a research intern.”

“Well, do you have money?” the guard asked. “The ticket prices have skyrocketed.”

Tripitaka frowned. Her traveling stipend might not stretch for huge prices. “Not so much.”

“Do you have someone you know who has money?”

“Not really?”

“Then the only way you can get there is if you’re a trainer that has at minimum two gym badges,” the guard said, his face a picture of sympathy. “They’re filtering people and prioritize traveling trainers to get them on a waiting list. Everyone else is on a standby list.”

“Are you serious?” Tripitaka gasped, her stomach sinking to the floor. Why did everything in the world have to revolve around a sport she knew nothing about?! Sage let out a dismayed cry, bumping her head into Tripitaka’s leg.

“Sadly I am, my friend,” the guard replied. “My buddy told me a person waited two and a half weeks on that standby list… Hence all the rooms for the Pokémon Centers are rather full up from here to Olivine, but I’ve heard that’s in the low time range. I’d suggest you’d reserve a room at Goldenrod now since folks are starting to trickle back here to wait it all out.”

Tripitaka’s head was spinning. This wasn’t supposed to happen, it couldn’t. She was on a schedule, her internship was waiting, she couldn’t miss this. Her mouth dry, she finally rasped out, “What do you suggest I do then?”

“Well you’ve got a Pokémon there,” the guard said. “There are three gyms on the way there. One back in Goldenrod, one in Ecruteak, and one in Olivine. If you’re willing to backtrack, Violet City is a great gym for rookie trainers, although every gym will judge your performance based on your current skill level. Training for two gym battles is probably faster than waiting out the standby list, if I’m honest.”

Tripitaka nodded, her entire body numb. Maybe her best bet was to head back for Goldenrod to come up with a plan. “Thank you for the heads up,” she heard herself say as she turned and headed back outside, Sage dutifully keeping pace.

After a moment of walking, Rén landed on a fence nearby and hooted. He was probably wondering what had taken so long. Or why they were heading backwards. “We have to go back to Goldenrod,” Tripitaka informed him faintly. His head shot up in alarm and he rasped out a reply, head tilting. Sage chattered and squealed at him long enough that Tripitaka guessed she was giving him the summary of the situation, and she sank down on a bench, head in her hands. She couldn’t tell who was more distressed at the delay, Rén or herself.

A low purr startled her out of her thoughts, and a very fat cream colored cougar shoved Tripitaka’s arms out of the way to curl up onto her lap.

“A Persian? Hi?” Tripitaka asked, her confusion promptly erasing her dismay. Gingerly, she touched the purring cat’s back, unsure of what to do. A girl stood in front of her, typing on a tablet before holding it up, looking over Tripitaka’s shoulder.

“Beryl thought you were going to have a meltdown so she helps like she does for me,” the text to speech voice informed her.

“Oh. Thanks,” Tripitaka replied. “I was just… stressed.”

The girl moaned and flapped a hand before typing. “Is Beryl helping?”

It was indeed difficult to get overwhelmed with the crushing reality of her situation when there was a big cat squishing her lap, so Tripitaka nodded. Beryl’s black ear twitched and shoved her head into Tripitaka’s palm. Sage cocked her head and mirrored the Persian, curling up on the bench beside Tripitaka and Rén just observed without comment.

After the girl, who introduced herself as Dia, had her tablet ask what was wrong, Tripitaka gave her the summary of her situation. Dia moaned again, looking thoughtful and flapping her hand. “When I was on Route 34 this morning there was a strong-looking trainer in a beanie hanging out. Maybe they can help you train.”

Certainly couldn’t hurt. “Thanks for the advice. And for Beryl.”

“I’m going to go now,” Dia’s tablet said before Beryl dropped off Tripitaka’s lap, her tail swiping across Tripitaka’s lips as she waddled after her companion into the guardhouse. Tripitaka stood up, picking Persian hair off her tongue and with a sigh headed back for Goldenrod.

Chase your dreams, and remember me, sweet bravery
'Cause after all those wings will take you, up so high
So bid the forest floor goodbye as you race the wind
And take to the sky

Chapter Text

After booking a room in the notably more crowded Pokémon Center, Tripitaka went straight away to the notably less crowded internet café around the corner to do what she did best: research. If what the guard said was true and she did indeed need to acquire two badges, she needed to research how the gyms were handled and which one would be the best for her to challenge.

She knew vaguely about the concepts of gyms; just challenge the leader and beat them in a battle according to League standard rules, although some leaders were known to be more quirky with how they chose to hand out badges to aspiring trainers. Violet City’s gym she knew; she’d been to a few exhibition matches there with the monks growing up and figured Sage would be able to handle the battles there, but it was out of her way to go all the way back just to maybe get a badge and come back.

She sat back, rubbing her head. Sage hadn’t battled much at all in her time at Elm’s lab. The little Eevee had the instincts for sure, but she was far too inexperienced to shoulder the bulk of official trainer battles. She glanced at Rén through the window over her shoulder, who was napping in a tree across the street. As much as she hated to admit it, he had far more strength and battling experience; the Pokédex confirming he was more than double Sage’s estimated level. She needed Rén. The only snag in that was whether he’d actually listen to her in an official gym battle. (Wasn’t there some fine print rule about disobedient or out of control Pokémon invalidating the badge or something?)

Either way that was only a potential problem; Rén should be motivated enough to win if it meant they could proceed that much faster, right? Tripitaka watched as Sage investigated another trainer’s book bag, getting away with being nosy with her adorable doe eyes before going back to her research. Olivine’s gym specialized in steel-types, which she knew for a fact would cause Rén and Sage plenty of issues.

So that left Goldenrod and Ecruteak as her most plausible options, having normal and ghost-type specialties, respectively. That… might actually be possible. Upon checking the bookings, she noted there was still a backlog of challengers despite being the off-season for the Pokémon League. Apparently there were loads of other people following the two-badge plan… Tripitaka also glanced at a big warning in bold text on the gym’s booking page, which explained that because of the recent influx of challengers, upon defeat challengers must wait for a minimum of four days before registering for another battle, which could take even more time due to the backlog.

She winced. That meant if she was going to maintain her schedule, she was only going to have one shot at each gym. That also meant she was going to have a limited time to practice her battling skills and formulating a solid strategy for both gyms. Tripitaka took a deep breath to calm her nerves. More research would be needed, but that could be done back at the Pokémon Center, where they don’t politely cough and inform you the business was closing for the day.

Rén had vanished from the tree, and Tripitaka guessed he had either gone back to the Pokémon Center or had gone hunting; it didn’t matter to her. Well, she supposed it did now, knowing that he was going to be her ‘ace’, as she read plenty of trainers describing their strongest fighter. Sage tugged on Tripitaka’s pant leg and looked up, and upon following her gaze Tripitaka could see what looked to be a Hoothoot perched on the corner edge of a nearby building.

“Well at least someone can keep track of Rén,” Tripitaka said, giving Sage a scratch behind the ears and heading back to the Pokémon Center. Hoping fervently it was in fact the Hoothoot in question, she called out “Rén, we’re going to the Pokémon Center for the night!” The bird disappeared out of sight, and Tripitaka grabbed some food at the snack bar before making for her room. It was unfortunately windowless and shared with three other trainers, one of which was already snoring, but it was better than no room at all. Maybe Rén didn’t want to spend the night in a crowded space. Either way, she was sure he’d let her know his feelings about the matter come tomorrow morning. Tripitaka soon settled under the blankets with her phone and Sage curled up by her pillow and slid back into research mode about moves, strategies, and videos people posted of their own gym challenges in both cities, finally falling asleep at 3:34am watching a battle of a Quilava getting utterly pulverized by Whitney’s Miltank.

---

Morning arrived far too early when one of her roommate’s Rotom phone declared a wakeup call at 7:30. Tripitaka briefly considered falling back asleep, but the snoring roommate kept going and she realized that was all the rest she was going to get for the day. Today she had to actually prepare for the gym battles. Well that was okay; she’d looked up training techniques for beginners and figured she could fumble her way to a badge.

Upon getting breakfast and walking to a park nearby, she pointed her phone at her two Pokémon. Information about Rén and Sage were displayed; lots of numbers and estimations of their levels and moves they knew and could learn along with other walls of information that ultimately were lost on her. Step one was memorizing the attacks they knew, right? Generally the first gym was to test if the trainer’s Pokémon could accurately respond to their trainer’s directions and less about actual battling ability.

“Okay, Rén. Here’s my thought process for how our gym challenges are going to work,” Tripitaka began.

Rén yawned and scratched behind his neck before shaking his head.

“You’re going to have to take the lead on the battles because of your experience at the Tower and with Troy.”

Rén’s vague interest didn’t fully displace the bored look in his eyes as Tripitaka explained her logic on challenging the two gyms she had in mind and asking if he could help Sage out with battling practice.

After waiting for any response from the owl, she turned to Sage. “Alright… I already sort of know what you can do but how about we try and make it better?”

Is that what trainers were supposed to do?

“Okay, show me that Swift attack you used the other night on Rén. Then Rén, counter it.”

Rén soundlessly took off as Sage squealed and gathered golden energy around herself before the familiar faint bolts shot out. Tripitaka watched in dismay as Rén kept flying further and further away until he had vanished entirely into the trees.

Tripitaka sighed. So much for Rén helping. Wasn’t he supposed to like battles?

Sage’s Swift petered out, not at all looking like the attack the Aipom had used in the Underground. Sage’s ears drooped in disappointment before glancing at Tripitaka. Tripitaka knew she was supposed to give direction and coach her, but all she could say was “Try it again? I guess on that bush over there.”

The next wilted Swift rustled the leaves, but was still unimpressive.

“How is it you did the move when that Rattata was attacking us but it looks… different now?” Tripitaka wondered. Sage looked down and whined. “Not that…” Tripitaka sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose. “Not that it’s bad; you’re doing your best, but…” she let out a blast of air. “I don’t know what I’m doing.” The training tutorial she’d skimmed through hadn’t prepared her for this. Sage planted her paws on Tripitaka’s legs and whined, chattering to her. It sounded like she was trying to be encouraging, but it stung even more knowing she couldn’t understand her words.

After a moment of quiet, Tripitaka sighed. “Why do you think Rén flew off like that?” she asked Sage, who offered a sound of puzzlement. She would’ve thought the owl would be all over showing off his skills. Unless he thought he was above training in general, at least with her. Or his thought of training was just battling other people like he was used to at the Tower with Troy. Either way she couldn’t ask him until he came back from whatever he was doing.

She was about to look up more trainer tips on her phone when two little kids walked by on the path.

“I can’t believe the Pokémon Center is already full of trainers,” one said. “Even all the motels too!”

“That mess in Olivine sure is screwing things up,” the other agreed. “It’s camping for me then,” he added glumly.

“Shut up, my aunt will put us up for sure!” the first boy exclaimed, punching his friend on the arm. Their voices faded as they walked away.

Tripitaka’s heart sank and she looked up the Pokémon Center’s reservation slots. All full indeed, even if it was only late morning. Even the cheapest and poorly-reviewed motels in the area were full as well.

“Well since I don’t have an aunt to put us up for the night, camping it is then,” Tripitaka told Sage, who wagged her tail. She didn’t appear to mind. “Luckily for us, Troy gave us a tent,” she continued as she pulled it out and started to unpack it. Troy assured her it should hold up as he helped her practice setting it up; apparently the last time it had been used was when one of the elders had been a young trainer on his journey.

Sage pawed doubtfully at the canvas, revealing several holes worn in the side.

“Well, hopefully it won’t rain?” Tripitaka suggested, glancing up at the forming clouds as the breeze picked up.

“Vuii,” Sage answered, one ear flat to her head.

Tripitaka was halfway through setting the tent up when one of the poles snapped in half, startling Sage.

“It’s okay,” Tripitaka assured her, trying to swallow her frustration and act calm for Sage’s sake. “We can prop up the side with my bag and just have a low ceiling?”

The universe answered with a rumble of thunder and Tripitaka’s phone ringing.

Upon looking at the caller ID, she briefly considered ignoring it. Sage cocked her head as Tripitaka let it ring in her hands. Gritting her teeth, she forced a smile on her face and answered.

“Hi Gaxin.”

“Tripitaka! How’s your journey going? I heard from my temple that you had started out a few days ago!”

“It’s going well,” she lied through gritted teeth, massaging her forehead. “The Professor is going to have a lot to read in my… Updates.”

Gaxin chuckled. “I can’t wait to be interns together. Where are you? I thought with your enthusiasm you’d be halfway to Orre by now!”

She hesitated before answering truthfully, “Goldenrod City.”

“Oh so you’re really taking it slow and enjoying the journey, huh?”

Tripitaka smothered the urge to hang up. “I’m getting a badge here. Thought I’d… I’d give it a try. Where are you?” She tried to keep her question pleasant-sounding.

“Ah, giving the trainer life a go, eh? I figured since I already had Ecruteak’s badge I might as well try the Olivine Gym while I was searching for a ship to take me to Unova. That Janine is tough, but we managed in the end! My Pokémon are so faithful.” Tripitaka could’ve sworn that the gym leader’s name was Jasmine, but didn’t bother to correct him. The only names he knew well were of people of great importance to him. “But guess what?”

“What?” She tried to hide the burning jealousy and annoyance in her reply, glancing fruitlessly at the trees for Rén.

“I held the door open for this random guy at a café, and it turns out he’s a captain of a private ship! We struck up a conversation and boom, just offered to take me all the way to Unova, free of charge! I’m on the ship now, isn’t that fortunate? What a blessing!”

Tripitaka took a deep breath. Why were things so easy for him?! Why did she have to fight tooth and nail just to make a fraction of progress when he was just breezing along, handed everything on a platter?!

“I heard from him that there’s a bit of a situation over at Olivine these days,” Gaxin went on. He paused. “Are you encountering any problems over there?”

“None whatsoever,” she replied thinly.

“That’s good. I’ll see you hopefully soon in Orre. I’ll pray for your journey. Safe travels, Tripitaka.”

The line went dead. Tripitaka pocketed the phone, breathing slowly and clenching her fists, anger boiling over. Sage let out a concerned trill that Tripitaka ignored, furiously casting about, looking for someone, anyone to challenge to battle. It had to be better than training on her own, and she needed results now. She spotted a guy about her age a quick walk away standing in front of a bush with his arms crossed, tapping his foot.

“Hey!” she yelled at him.

He glanced up in surprise, a dark eyebrow arched over his sunglasses. “Hm?”

“Are you a trainer?” she demanded.

He scoffed, glancing away from her. “I’d like to think so, yes.”

“Then battle me,” Tripitaka ordered. It was that moment the cloud of frustration lifted and she realized she might have come across as rather rude, but brushed it aside, taking a deep breath and squaring her shoulders. Trainers were straightforward people, after all.

The guy pulled his sunglasses down his nose, warm and curious brown eyes staring at her. “You want to challenge me?”

“Yes, you,” Tripitaka insisted. Sage wagged her tail. Why was this guy being so obtuse? “That’s what real trainers do, right?”

The guy scratched underneath his gray beanie with one hand and touched his mustache with the other. “Well, I mean, yeah, they do, but I don’t really have a Pokémon… available, right now.”

“You call yourself a trainer and you don’t have a Pokémon?” Tripitaka asked, his nonchalance throwing her off. The kids in the Underground weren’t nearly this hesitant.

“I do have Pokémon,” the guy insisted, fully taking off his sunglasses and shoving them in his pocket, folding his arms again.

“Then where is it?” Tripitaka hissed. Yet another delay to her plans by some random jerk trainer.

The guy’s expression flattened and his jaw squared. “You know what little monk-”

A loud, protracted gurgling from the bush interrupted him, and his mouth pursed. A quiet poot followed.

“-he’s indisposed at the moment,” he concluded through clenched teeth, cheeks reddening.

A pathetic moan lilted through the leaves of the bushes, and all the fight drained from Tripitaka’s body and her stomach churned in sympathy. Sage took a couple steps back, nose crinkled.

The guy rolled his eyes and spoke over his shoulder. “No, I’m not going to euthanize you. You were the one that begged to stop at that shady taco stand, now you’re the one going to live with your choices.”

Another groan.

“Why not? Because that’s what you want,” the guy snapped.  “And I’m not going to give you what you want. Especially after this bullshit; we have stuff to do,” he muttered to himself, shuffling his feet and scratching at his mustache again, trying to avoid Tripitaka’s eye.

Tripitaka fidgeted with her bag, unsure if she should just walk away at this point, but also wanting to see her challenge through to the end before she lost her nerve. She swallowed. “So um, did you have another Pokémon?”

The withering look he gave her told her everything she needed to know.

“I’ll take that as a no-”

“I do,” he scoffed, flipping his dark hair. “But it’s not like it’ll come down and help me,” he added, yelling the last part to the empty sky. It was punctuated by a gurgle from the bush followed by splattering sounds.

This guy was insane. The sunk cost fallacy wasn’t worth this.

Tripitaka took a tiny step back. “I’m going to go now,” she began as the leaves on the bush rustled.

“Oh you’re finally done?” the trainer snorted at the emerging Pokémon. “Hurry up. You’ve got a challenger.”

A large orange primate lumbered painfully out from the bush, a weak looking flame burning atop its head.

An Infernape.

Tripitaka’s heart sank. There was no way a novice Eevee like Sage could take on a fully evolved Pokémon. She didn’t have a trainer’s eye, but even she could tell from the faint scarring dotting its lean and muscular body that this was a powerful fighter, even if it was not at the top of its game right at this moment. The Infernape peered at Tripitaka before its gaze settled on Sage, and its eyes softened, as most do when seeing a small and young Pokémon.

“Well do your thing then,” the trainer said, scrolling through his phone and gesturing vaguely at Sage. Infernape gave him a withering look before Sage let out a squeal.

“Are you even going to introduce yourself?” Tripitaka asked.

“You didn’t, so why should I?” the guy responded. At Infernape’s grunt, he rolled his eyes and looked at Tripitaka, mouth quirking before he spoke. “My name is Monkey.”

“I’m Tripitaka,” she replied. “Nice to meet you. I guess.”

Monkey’s weight shifted and his expression changed ever so slightly. “Nice to meet you, Tripitaka. Now shall we do this battle or whatever?” he asked, tone shifting back to uninterested as he looked back to his phone.

“Tackle, Sage!” Tripitaka ordered.

The Eevee lunged forward and Infernape sat down, lazily stopping her charge with his foot and smiling at her.

“Growl, then?”

Monkey snorted. “Yeah, because that’s useful,” he muttered, not taking his eyes off the screen.

Sage let out a snarl that was quite unlike her that would be intimidating to most Pokémon, but the Infernape was not moved at all, merely leaning forward and patting Sage’s head, jerking its fingers back when Sage’s teeth clicked together on empty air.

Tripitaka stared. This Infernape wasn’t even trying! “Sage, Swift!”

Sage appeared frustrated as well, growling with a ‘viiiii’ as the rays of light actually formed into stars that smacked into the monkey’s jaw. It blinked and looked at Monkey, who had put down his phone.

“Tackle it again!” Tripitaka ordered, impressed with Sage’s improvement.

“Grass Knot,” Monkey replied, shaking his head.

Sage bounded forward, but the Infernape snapped its fingers and strands of grass shot up that wrapped around Sage’s paws and she tumbled to the ground.

Monkey cracked a wry grin and looked over to a fuming Tripitaka. He had just been messing with her. “It was a nice try, little monk boy. Better luck next time.”

“I’m not a kid,” she snapped at him. “I’m eighteen. And I’m not a boy either!”

He held up his hands. “Live your truth. Anyway we’re gonna get going. But first…” he knelt and reached out for Sage, who hesitantly sniffed his fingers before nudging her head into his awaiting hands. “That was a really nice Swift there for such a young Eevee,” he praised, stroking her head.

Sage pawed shyly at the ground and chittered quietly.

“Oh don’t be so modest; you did great,” he said, booping her nose and standing up and looking between Sage and Tripitaka. “Keep up the good work, cutie pie,” he called over his shoulder and sauntered away, Infernape following.

Tripitaka’s cheeks flushed, not knowing which one of them Monkey was referring to and also not knowing why it suddenly mattered. It didn’t, obviously. Regardless, they had work to do. Sage watched the pair go with a disappointed look, her wagging tail coming to a stop.

“Oh, what, am I not good enough for you now?” Tripitaka muttered her breath.

Sage vigorously shook herself before she looked up at her with a questioning trill.

Tripitaka sighed. “I guess he’s right, you are doing really well with your Swift. How about we practice it more, only this time pretend that bush over there is that Infernape?” Tripitaka suggested.

The battle with Infernape (although Tripitaka could hardly call it a proper battle) seemed to have inspired Sage, for her next few Swifts were consistently fully-formed and looked just like Aipom’s had in the Underground. Not knowing how else to coach her partner, Tripitaka suggested Sage try to make one big star or widening the range as she herself scanned the sky for Rén, who was still missing, and trying to finish setting up what little tent remained. Sage was forming one big blob of golden energy that vaguely resembled a single star when another tall boy about her age with long, near-white platinum hair approached them directly on the path and stopped in front of them. Tripitaka frowned and Sage looked over at her, the Swift scattering into nothing.

“What’s happening, monk?” the guy asked, glancing between her and Sage.

“Hi,” Tripitaka replied, unsure of what else to say. This guy seemed to be a trainer like Monkey with three minimized Pokéballs attached to his belt, but unlike Monkey’s relaxed and warm personality, this guy was bristling with energy and drive.

The trainer nodded to her. “Saw your battle with that guy’s Infernape,” he said. Tripitaka couldn’t help but feel small before him.

Tripitaka scoffed to herself and shook her head. “Wasn’t much of a battle,” she mumbled, although in the back of her mind she was uncomfortable that she had had an audience at the time.

He cracked a small smile, tilting his head as his calculating blue eyes appraised Sage, hand drifting over a Pokéball on his belt. “Want to have a training session with someone a little closer to your skill level?”

Couldn’t hurt, Tripitaka supposed, swallowing her unease. “Sure. What’s your name?”

The trainer hesitated for a fraction too long before smiling. “My name’s Silver. And yourself?”

“Tripitaka,” she replied, her own smile not reaching her eyes as he nodded slightly and asked what she was training for. “I’m just… trying to get two badges to get out of Johto.”

“Oh? Where you headed?” Silver asked, taking a Pokéball and maximizing it.

The professor’s warning about not disclosing traveling details with potential fellow interns flared up in her mind and she shrugged. “Hoenn,” she lied. “Vacation.”

Silver pursed his lips, eyebrow raised. “Didn’t think monks took vacations. There a temple over there?”

She had a feeling he knew she was lying. “Not officially a monk,” she said quickly. “My… dad’s one though. Long story. So um, what are you going to pick?”

Silver grinned and with a flick of his wrist sent out his Pokémon, forming into a pure white long-furred beast with a black scythe on its head and a blade-like tail. It flexed its long black claws and crouched low, staring at Sage, who crept up beside Tripitaka.

“That’s an… Absol, right?” Tripitaka asked. They weren’t that common around this region at all.

“Sure is,” Silver replied. “Ready to go?”

Tripitaka hesitated, glancing down at Sage. She appeared to share Tripitaka’s unease, sizing up the Absol and noting the intense focus the dark-type had that Monkey’s Infernape shared, presumably shaped through focused training and fierce battles, although there was no sense of play or gentleness in those red eyes. “It… It seems rather high level for us…”

“We’ll go easy on you,” Silver said with a chuckle. “How else are you going to learn?”

“You know, actually, I think we’re going to pass,” Tripitaka said quickly. “Thank you for the offer though.  We can do our own training-”

“Quick Attack,” Silver ordered.

The Absol became a white blur and slapped Sage with a paw before springing back, Sage tumbling through the grass with a sharp yelp.

“Sage!” Tripitaka exclaimed, throwing Silver a shocked look.

“Quick Attack is one of the moves an Eevee can learn,” Silver replied, striding over to Sage and scooping her up. She jerked from his grasp as if she’d been stung, and hopped back in front of Tripitaka, letting out a small growl. Silver shrugged. “Perhaps another demonstration might help Sage learn it faster?”

Sage’s name sounded foreign and wrong coming from him. Tripitaka snapped up Sage’s Pokéball. “No. We’re done here. Sage, return-”

“Mean Look,” Silver barked, interrupting her again, thunder punctuating his command. Tripitaka pressed the recall button as Absol’s eyes glinted as it glared at Sage, and the red beam of light deflected off Sage as if there were an invisible wall. Tripitaka blanched and Sage’s eyes widened with fear. No more safety of the Pokéball as long as Absol was around. Silver huffed. “You going to fight back, or what?”

Tripitaka swallowed hard, her palms sweaty, weighing her options of just grabbing Sage and running and abandoning her feeble campsite, or putting up a fight in the hopes that Silver would be satisfied with her efforts and leave her alone.

Silver’s gaze darkened at her silence. “You can’t win those gym badges if you don’t fight for them, Tripitaka.”

“I don’t want to battle you anymore!” she exclaimed, edging towards her backpack. Sage called out, and when Tripitaka made eye contact, chattered at her, crouching down and looking determined, if a little frightened.

“At least Sage has some backbone,” Silver commented. “Go ahead, make a move.”

Fine. If it would make him leave, fine.

“Sage, Tackle!” she called, squeezing her hand closed.

With a determined growl, Sage faithfully ran full tilt at Absol, ready to slam her body into the big target.

Silver looked like the definition of calm compared to Tripitaka’s nerves, as he had already foreseen how the entire battle would play out. “Intercept with Bite,” he said.

Just before Sage struck, Absol spun to the side and snatched up the little brown fox in its jaws with a snarl, biting down, Sage crying out. Her shrieks increased in volume as the Absol thrashed its head around.

“Stop it!” Tripitaka screamed, trying to recall Sage again before remembering she couldn’t. “Leave her alone! Sage!”

Silver snapped his fingers and the Absol stood perfectly still, Sage whimpering and still locked in its jaws, panting.

“Please,” Tripitaka begged, tears blurring her vision as rain drops began to scatter along the gravel path around her. “Please, enough. You said you’d go easy on us…”

Silver looked like he was trying to appear puzzled, but came across as scornful. “This is us going easy on you.”

Sage let out a cry and her fur glowed gold, a shower of stars exploding inside Absol’s mouth. With a startled snarl Absol threw Sage away from her, the Eevee landing heavily on her side into the wet grass. Absol’s lips curled, licking the inside of its mouth with a growl.

“Well that was impressive,” Silver said, watching Sage stagger to her feet, her trembling ears and tail low and eyes as wide as saucers. “How about we try that again but do that Swift faster? Absol, again.”

“How about we don’t?” another voice interrupted. An orange blur materialized next to Absol and smashed a fist into its jaw, sending it skidding into the grass. Infernape leaped backwards, head flame blazing and sizzling in the rain, and let out a challenging screech to stand over Sage.

Monkey sauntered up in front of Tripitaka, taking off his sunglasses and glancing haughtily at Silver. “How about instead of fighting some rookie, you fight a real trainer like me?”

Silver’s surprise turned to annoyance. “Do I know you from somewhere?”

“You sure do,” Monkey replied, pulling off his beanie and ripping off his mustache with a wince before his face returned to its cocky state. “The one, the only, Monkey King. Scared yet?”

That name appeared to give Silver pause before he brushed it off. “A washed-up disgrace like you? Hardly,” Silver snorted. His face turned sly, and his steely focus from Tripitaka shifted entirely to Monkey. “Although it would be a genuine pleasure to utterly bury you.”

“Ri-ight,” Monkey sneered. “An Absol against my Infernape? You should know even in the rain he’s going to win.”

“Oh no, great and powerful Monkey,” Silver hissed. “There’s an Eevee on the field. This is a double battle now.” He hurled another Pokéball into the air. “Scyther, prepare for battle!”

Tripitaka blanched as the large green mantis burst out, hissing and flashing the blades on its arms. She looked up at Monkey. He didn’t share her fear, just irritation.

He sighed, and gestured at the two opponents. “Well, do your thing then.”

Infernape screeched and rocketed at the Absol, smashing it in the ribs with a blurred fist before pivoting and blasting a Flamethrower at the Scyther, all in one motion.

“Psycho Cut! Scyther, Agility then Air Slash!”

Absol recovered and slashed at Infernape with its head scythe glowing violet as Scyther zoomed to the side of the Flamethrower, escaping with only singed wings. Infernape sneered and flipped out of the way of Absol’s attack, ducking behind its white flank as Scyther’s shearing wind attack sliced through its fur. Infernape cackled and pummeled Absol, delivering rapid strikes to its entire body with both fists and feet, limbs flying faster than Tripitaka can see, until the Absol collapsed in front of him.

Scyther zoomed down, blades raised, but Infernape whirled around and a Flamethrower engulfed the mantis until it screamed and ducked out of the flames licking its exoskeleton.

Silver’s eyes spelled murder.

Absol staggered to its feet, snarling, head blade glowing again before Silver yelled “Target the Eevee!”

“Sage, run!” Tripitaka yelled to the Eevee, who had been standing and staring in awe at the battle before her.

With a cry she pelted towards Tripitaka and took a flying leap for the safety of her arms before ricocheting off the invisible wall once again. Tripitaka wanted to cry in frustration. The Mean Look wasn’t allowing her to stray away from Absol.

Absol launched the Psycho Cut, the swathe of psychic energy headed straight for Sage, who let out a shriek, paralyzed in fear. Infernape scooped her into his arms and tumbled out of the way.

Things got a lot more hectic after that.

Scyther and Absol rushed in, blades raised and Infernape, clutching the little bundle of fluff that was Sage in one arm, dodged every single strike, rolling and dipping and leaping and slapping away limbs with his free arm and feet until he saw his chance and engulfed both Pokémon into a close range Flamethrower, significantly brighter than his previous ones, the heat radiating even in the pouring rain. Tripitaka blinked and saw that Sage had her eyes tightly shut, paws clamped around Infernape’s arm, tidbits of energy flowing into her partner, powering his attack up.

“She’s using Helping Hand!” Tripitaka exclaimed to Monkey. “Great job, Sage!”

“Keep it up, Infernape!” he called. “They’ve got nothing on you!”

A violet blade sliced through the flames aimed right where Sage was. Infernape’s Flamethrower died out as he spun, catching the attack on his back and hugging Sage to his chest, face grimacing in pain.

“Hyper Beam, Absol! Full power! And Scyther, keep them in place with Air Slash!” Silver shouted.

Before Infernape could recover Scyther launched Air Slash after Air Slash as it hovered far above them. Infernape continued to shield Eevee with his body, grunting with each strike. Absol charged up a glowing orange orb in its mouth, crackling with sparks, getting bigger and bigger.

Tripitaka looked up at Monkey, desperate for a strategy, but he was making eye contact with Infernape, who nodded at him. Sage’s eyes met Tripitaka’s before squirming out of Infernape’s grasp, leaping out from under his body and launching a Swift straight up at Scyther with a scream.

The stars pelted its body enough to disrupt its attacks, shielding its face with its scythes and flying higher.

Absol threw its head back, orb fully charged.

“Now!” Monkey roared.

Infernape flung himself at Absol, smashing a palm under its chin and yanking its head scythe back just as Absol fired the Hyper Beam, blasting through the air to collide with Scyther in a huge explosion that almost knocked Tripitaka off her feet.

Absol collapsed, breathing heavily, as Scyther landed in a charred heap not too far away, groaning with defeat. Infernape stood over Absol and said something to it before pulling back his fist and punching it in the head, knocking it out with one definitive strike.

Sage sprinted to Tripitaka and leaped into her arms, and never was Tripitaka happier to have a sopping wet ball of fur launched straight at her chest.

Silver recalled his two Pokémon without a sound, and stared at Monkey, his lip curling in disgust.

“Next time will be different,” he said coldly before turning and walking away.

I am the one thing in life I can control
I am inimitable, I am an original
I’m not falling behind or running late
I’m not standing still I am lying in wait

Chapter Text

Tripitaka’s knees waited until he was out of sight before buckling. Monkey grabbed her and held her up before she could fall.

“You okay?” he asked, eyes wide.

“We… we survived,” she replied, squeezing Sage tighter to her chest.

Monkey rolled his eyes and stepped back, looking over Infernape as the primate walked over to them and appearing satisfied, pulled out a Pokéball and recalled him. “Of course we survived; that was just a stupid bully with an attitude problem.” His eyes softened when his gaze turned to Sage. “And what a brave little Eevee you were, yes you were! You were so helpful to Infernape!” he cooed, waggling her long ears and kissing her nose. Sage’s tail thumped against Tripitaka, purring.

Monkey gestured to Tripitaka. “Come on then. Let’s go.”

“Go?” Tripitaka asked, blinking rain out of her eyes. “Go where?”

“Inside?” he replied incredulously. “In case you haven’t noticed, it’s pouring rain, monk.”

Tripitaka shuffled her feet and looked at her pitiful tent. His eyes followed hers. “Don’t tell me that’s yours.” At her silence he rolled his eyes again. “If you want to die in that thing, stay. But I’m going back to the hotel.”

“Wait, I can’t go,” Tripitaka stammered. “I’m waiting for- oh no. Rén!” she yelled, looking frantically in the trees. Where had he been all this time?! “Rén!”

“You have another friend or a Pokémon out here? Which is it?” Monkey asked.

“My- my dad’s… The Hoothoot I’m with,” she explained before yelling for him again. “He took off a while ago.”

“Well if I were a Hoothoot I’d be hunkered down somewhere trying to stay dry,” Monkey suggested with a shrug. “He won’t go far in this weather.”

Tripitaka’s shoulders sagged. Right. Because Hoothoot can’t fly well in heavy rain. In exchange for silent flight their feathers weren’t nearly as water repellent as other bird Pokémon’s.

Monkey picked up her backpack and held it out to her. “Shall we?”

The jog to Monkey’s hotel was uneventful, and even with the fright she just had, Tripitaka found herself not worrying at all about being bothered by anyone. Monkey, now carrying her backpack, was relaxed as could be despite the rain and the fact he’d just had a battle with another trainer, which gave her a sense of safety she appreciated.

Monkey waved to the smiling receptionist at the hotel that Tripitaka didn’t catch the name of, but the inside looked fancier than she’d ever seen, except maybe on TV she’d sometimes watch at Professor Elm’s. She noted as they entered the elevator the building was really leaning into the ‘golden’ part that Goldenrod City’s name suggested.

“Well, here I am,” Monkey said after the longest elevator ride imaginable, swiping a card and kicking open the door. They were nearly at the top of the building. “Make yourself at home.”

“You live here?” Tripitaka asked, gaping at the expansive room that seemed bigger than the entire first floor of Sprout Tower. Sage, still in her arms, let out a small trill, equally enthralled.

Monkey snorted, pulling out a Pokéball and tossing it to release Infernape into the room. “Uh, no? This is a hotel. I’m just passing through. Why?”

“It’s like an apartment,” Tripitaka said, still taking in all the comfy looking furniture and the four poster bed. “A really fancy apartment.”

“Oh yeah, you’re a monk,” Monkey muttered, scrubbing a hand over his face, suddenly awkward. “Bit of a culture shock I guess.”

“Not really a monk,” Tripitaka offered, opting to set Sage down on the bed. “Just raised among them.”

Monkey didn’t appear to know how to respond to that, so he turned his attention to Sage.

“Is sweet little Sage okay? Lemme check you over… such a brave baby,” Monkey cooed as he picked up each paw and tapped each pad before wiggling it and setting it down. Sage trilled, clearly enjoying the treatment.

Infernape cleared his throat behind him.

“Shut up; you’re fine,” Monkey groused as he played tiny imaginary bongos on Sage’s belly.

Tripitaka gave Infernape a questioning look, which was met with an eye roll and dismissive hand flick very reminiscent of his trainer. He didn’t seem any worse for wear, so Tripitaka let it go.

“Well Doctor Monkey? What’s your assessment?” Tripitaka said with a stifled giggle as she watched Sage boop her paw to Monkey’s nose and bump her forehead into his chin.

“Please, little monk. Call me Monkey. Doctor Monkey is my father,” Monkey scoffed, squishing Sage’s cheeks as she squealed in delight. “And she’s fine. I think that guy was more trying to scare you two than actually battle.”

“Then what did he want?” Tripitaka wondered.

“Dunno. Some people are just assholes,” Monkey said breezily over his shoulder. He walked through a doorway and returned with a fluffy bath towel that he tossed over Sage, pulling the towel bundle into his arms and drying her off. Sage squealed and, upon being released, vigorously shook herself before sprinting through the entire suite, leaping onto furniture and tearing across the carpets. “Cue the zoomies,” Monkey snickered, watching her go. He sobered. “Although… Once he saw me he got a lot more serious, but considering his skill level wasn’t battling as hard as he could have. He was having his guys use a lot of long-range attacks when their species are better suited for physical attacks…”

Tripitaka only vaguely understood what he was saying, but pressed on. “That’s my next question. Why did he seem so offended by you?”

Monkey and Infernape swapped a look before they looked at Tripitaka, and Sage continued to tear through the suite, oblivious to the change in their moods. “Let’s just say I have a bit of a polarizing reputation for people that know me. Some people love me, some hate me.” He glanced at her through his eyelashes. “What do you think of me then?”

Tripitaka was taken aback. He seemed to be the kind of guy that didn’t care what anyone thought of him, and yet he was asking her. “I…” she paused. She’d always been a good judge of character, even when she was young, and her instincts were telling her this guy, although weird and sometimes abrasive, had at his core a kind soul. “Well you went out of your way to help me out, a complete stranger. You’re a good person.”

“I mean I’d like to think I’m a great person, but I’ll accept your assessment,” Monkey preened.

Tripitaka snorted, shaking her head. Sage, zoomies complete, nudged Monkey again, trying to coerce more attention out of him, which he happily supplied, scooping her up. “What made you come back?” she asked.

Monkey rolled a balled-up Sage around on the bed before answering with a half shrug. “The monkey was worried about you.”

“Did you seriously just refer to yourself in third person?” Tripitaka asked dryly.

“Not me,” Monkey insisted, jabbing a thumb back at Infernape. “The monkey. Infernape. He’s a monkey even though his name has ‘ape’ in it. He’s got a tail, so he’s a monkey. It’s weird.”

Infernape looked unimpressed and grunted at his trainer, who responded with a muttered ‘whatever’ under his breath. Tripitaka however, was impressed that Monkey could make that distinction in the first place.

“Well, a lot of the time Pokémon species name themselves with their vocalizations,” she suggested. “Take it up with Infernape.”

“I guess,” Monkey said. He glanced at Infernape. “The hell were you guys thinking?”

Infernape didn’t reply but to sprawl out onto the bed. Monkey pulled off his hoodie and tossed it over the top rails. “Anyway there’s a dryer in here somewhere if you want, but Infernape does a better job.” Infernape muttered and Monkey rolled his eyes again. “Oh shut up, you love it. You get to be a Slakoth for a while and nap; what a hardship.”

After Tripitaka changed in the other room into her drier clothes and added her robes to the collection above Infernape’s cheerfully burning head flame, Monkey flopped onto the couch and scrolled through his phone. After a minute of silence and Tripitaka sitting stiffly in the plush chair across from him and Sage already fallen asleep next to Infernape, Monkey glanced up.

“So?”

“So what?” Tripitaka responded, feeling awkward and not knowing what to do.

“So what’s your story, not-monk? What’s your deal? Where’re you going, what are you doing?”

The professor’s warning that sang through her mind when talking to Silver was quickly dismissed; the possibility Monkey was pursuing anything intellectual was slim to none. She shrugged. “Orre.”

Monkey made a face. “Huh. I’ve never been there, actually. Never really wanted to either; it’s the armpit of the world. What’s over there?”

“Professor Ginkgo’s lab,” Tripitaka said, not entirely disagreeing with his sentiment. Orre was a rough place at best. “I’m going to be- well, I’m trying to be- a research intern…”

“HA,” Monkey whooped. “Nerd.”

Tripitaka sighed, wondering if this is how Infernape felt all the time traveling with Monkey. “Well, what are you doing?”

“Not much, actually. I’m… between adventures at the moment.” He and Infernape shared a look that she couldn’t quite place. “But yeah. Why were you so eager to challenge me?”

Tripitaka glanced at the carpet, fidgeting with her hands. “Lost my temper. It’s been… a difficult start to my journey.” At Monkey’s curious look, she filled him in with all that had happened and why exactly she needed to be a trainer, or at least pass as one. He only interrupted with commentary, snide or earnest, four times before she scolded him to be quiet and he acquiesced until she said Olivine was only letting trainers with two or more badges travel immediately.

“Huh. That’s new,” Monkey mused. “Wonder what’s been so dangerous they’re filtering people like that.” He glanced at his phone and then to her. “You want burgers, pad thai, or malasadas? I’m hungry.”

Tripitaka blinked. “Well, um…”

“Pad thai it is,” Monkey declared, fiddling around on his phone before getting up to go absently feel his hoodie hanging above Infernape. “Sorry. My stomach made up my mind.”

“It’s fine,” Tripitaka said, stifling a smile. He certainly was a peculiar one. Upon watching him don his hoodie, she assumed her robes were dry and took them down to go change back into them, now toasty warm and smelling vaguely like a comforting campfire. “Where are you going?”

“Uh, outside? It stopped raining, after all.”

“Why?” Tripitaka asked, thinking they were going to stay in.

“I wanna see this Hoothoot of yours and know what I’m working with,” Monkey scoffed, zapping Infernape into his Pokéball. Sage blinked awake when she noticed her pillow had vanished, and trotted over to Tripitaka after a luxurious stretch.

Tripitaka’s mouth dropped. “You… you’re going to help me?”

“Not if you just stand there,” Monkey snorted. “Come on then, nerd.”

On the elevator ride down, Tripitaka showed Monkey her information on her phone about Rén and Sage as well as how she had been trying (and failing) to train Sage as well as her idea for which gyms to challenge, which he agreed with. As they were walking back to the park where Rén hopefully still was, several people were out now that the rain had stopped and each time someone passed them Monkey would scratch his head or touch his sunglasses, hiding his face. Tripitaka didn’t take him for the socially awkward kind of person, but he seemed to relax when he saw passerby people avoiding eye contact with Tripitaka. She was quite used to that; most people when they saw people of the cloth tended to keep walking rather quickly even if they weren’t asking for donations or trying to speak with them.

“So if you’re not a monk, then what are you?” he asked when they neared Tripitaka’s complete failure of a campsite. Sage darted ahead and leaped onto the fallen tent, rolling around on it.

Tripitaka shrugged. “When I was little I was dropped off at Sprout Tower, and the monks took me in and raised me. I just got accustomed to wearing their robes and one day when I was seven I…” her voice trailed off and she chuckled. “I wanted to look more like Troy and cut my hair short to match his. Completely butchered it of course, but it made him smile, even if he didn’t expect me to take on the vows or join their ranks. He just wanted me to be happy. Then I just kept it short ever since.”

Monkey bumped his shoulder into hers. “Well it’s a nice look, little monk.”

Tripitaka smiled, feeling her cheeks warm. “So what about you? You said your dad was a doctor?”

Monkey looked genuinely puzzled for a moment before his face brightened and he laughed. “Oh no, I was just being facetious then. Nah I was like you and dropped off at the Goldenrod orphanage as a baby. Don’t know or care who my parents are. Went on my Pokémon journey as soon as I was able and never stopped.” He looked thoughtful. “If whoever dropped you off had just gone here instead we could’ve grown up together.”

“Y… yeah, I guess you’re right,” Tripitaka realized, considering how her life would have been different if their paths had crossed sooner.

Just then Monkey’s phone beeped and he held it up to the sky, waiting. A Pidgeotto called out and dove at them, a takeout bag clutched in its talons, a blinking light attached to its ankle.

“Thank you gorgeous,” Monkey said, ruffling the crest of feathers on the bird’s head. Pidgeotto cooed before pecking at the blinking light to switch it off and flying back to whence it came. As Tripitaka watched it go, Monkey had already dove into the bag and pulled out some containers of food and drinks and offered them to her, Sage pawing at his legs.

“Right, so where’s this Hoothoot of yours?” Monkey asked, bits of food flying from his mouth as he spoke.

Tripitaka swallowed and scanned the tree line and was about to call out when she looked behind her and there was Rén on a bench a little ways away staring at her. “Rén, will you come say hello?” she asked, trying to keep her voice calm. She was still more than irate that he had taken off without a word this morning and hadn’t come when she’d called afterwards, raining or not.

His slow blink told her all she needed to know about his mood and was about to give up when he took off and landed a few wingspans away from her, ruffling his feathers. He appeared slightly damp but no worse for wear. Sage chittered and bounded up to him, eyes bright and tail high before he hissed and lunged at her. She returned to Tripitaka’s side without any further comment.

“Holy shit, look at the size of that thing!” Monkey exclaimed, setting down his bowl and scooting closer. “He’s got to be at least… a good two and a half Hoothoots stacked on top of each other… you sure that’s not a small Noctowl?”

“Pretty sure,” Tripitaka said with a smile. “Uh, Rén, this is Monkey. He said he’s going to help us prepare for our gym battles. Isn’t that great?”

Rén backed up from Monkey’s reaching fingers and crouched low, his beak almost touching his toes, shaking his head back and forth, hissing and glaring at Monkey.

Figures. Tripitaka tried to not sigh.

“What’s wrong with him?” Monkey asked, finger extended to prod at Rén’s shaking head. Rén hooted and lashed out before Monkey withdrew, looking more puzzled than hurt. “Message received, bud.”

“It’s called toe dusting… Hoothoot do it when they’re upset about something,” Tripitaka informed him, grateful for her research. “What did he say?”

Monkey considered. “In slightly less words, ‘I don’t like you’.”

“Well don’t take it personally, he doesn’t like anyone. Especially me,” Tripitaka muttered.

Rén stared at her before unleashing a series of hoots, looking furious before cutting himself off and turning his back to her.

“You have quite a mouth for someone trained around monks,” Monkey cajoled.

Rén’s orange eyes narrowed to slits as he crushed the dirt and grass beneath his talons.

Tripitaka didn’t need a translation for that; she’d probably done something or didn’t do something that met his expectations and was mad at her.

Monkey glanced between the two of them. “So I’m sensing a lot of tension here… have you tried to talk it out?”

Rén swiveled his head to pin Tripitaka down with a pointed glare.

“I have,” Tripitaka said curtly and went back to her lunch. “He just doesn’t like me.”

More glaring.

Monkey was silent before finishing off his bowl and setting it next to Sage to enthusiastically lick clean. He sucked his teeth. “So, what can Sage evolve into?”

Tripitaka blinked and Sage sat up at the mention of her name. “I’m sorry?”

“I mean we might as well go over options,” Monkey offered.

Tripitaka was going to comment that he was trying to change the subject before her love of showing off her research came pouring out of her mouth. “Well there’s the evolution stone ones, Vaporeon, Jolteon, and Flareon which respond to specific radiation from the stones and then there’s Espeon and Umbreon which evolve when melatonin and oxytocin levels balance out in a specific way although the levels vary because the sample sizes in the studies are limited, then there’s Glaceon and Leafeon which are dependent on ambient temperature, light levels, and humidity although they also can respond to certain evolution stones as well, and then there’s Sylveon which still needs more empirical study but research suggests-”

“Yeah yeah yeah, we get it nerd,” Monkey interrupted, waving her off. Tripitaka huffed. “What moves can she learn?”

“You mean over time with training or through TMs?” Tripitaka asked. “Because I didn’t really study her TM compatibility since I figured I’d never afford them-”

“Tackle. Sand Attack. Bite. Helping Hand. Growl. Tail Whip. Quick Attack. Help me out here,” Monkey said, gesturing to her to continue.

“Um. Take Down?” Tripitaka asked. “Mimic? Oh. Swift, she knows that one already. Um, Baton Pass and… Last Resort? That’s not for a long time, though…”

“Double Kick, Charm, Copycat, Trump Card? Sound familiar?” Monkey asked.

Tripitaka nodded. She vaguely remembered reading those attack names and probably could list their effects if pressed, but wasn’t completely certain about several of them. Besides, she wasn’t sure if she was even capable of training Sage enough for her to be able to master those advanced techniques anyway, so she hadn’t really bothered.

“Okay, last question. What is Sage saying?”

Tripitaka’s jaw clicked shut. She glanced at Sage, who cocked her head and offered a small sound and a look she couldn’t describe.

Monkey snorted. “You’re a wannabe Pokémon researcher who doesn’t understand Pokémon? Or even want to?”

“I’m just traveling with them to get to the internship!” Tripitaka burst out. “I don’t need to understand them!”

“That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard,” Monkey retorted. “That’s like… you going to Kalos to study Kalos people and not speaking Kalosian. You know, their language.”

Tripitaka’s frustration bubbled up at him for nettling the one glaring weakness in her studies. “Loads of people don’t understand Pokémon speech! There are even professors who don’t fully grasp the language, so I wouldn’t be alone in that. And Pokémon don’t really care!”

Rén scoffed and she shot him a withering look. He turned his back to her.

“You know, your Hoothoot would probably want to kill you less if you could properly talk things out,” Monkey suggested.

Tripitaka chose to keep to herself that Rén wasn’t even hers by choice. Monkey, having noticed her loud silence, leaned forward. “Why are you keeping him anyway? Didn’t you ask how he felt about traveling with you when you caught him?”

Rén uttered a low hoot, preening his wing feathers.

Monkey’s head snapped over to stare at Tripitaka, incredulous. “He’s not even yours?!”

Tripitaka bit her lip and said nothing.

Monkey sighed and flopped back on the grass. “So let me get this straight. You’ve never been on your own on a journey, haven’t really battled and yet you need to, and the only Pokémon you have were just… given to you.”

“So?” Tripitaka snapped. “You were given a starter too, weren’t you? Infernape was your starter, right? You got him from Professor Rowan like I got Sage from Professor Elm.”

“You’re dodging the question,” Monkey said, sitting up and rifling through his backpack. “But nah, not everyone’s buddy-buddy with professors like you are, nerd. Besides, I’m not from Sinnoh, remember? I got Chimchar from one of those charity egg giveaways Pokémon breeders put on for poor kids to get rid of their extras. Regardless…” He tossed her a pouch that Tripitaka was relieved she didn’t fumble. “Morty traditionally uses three Pokémon. You need a third teammate because Rén and Sage can’t do this alone.”

Tripitaka opened the pouch to reveal a handful of inactive minimized Pokéballs.

Monkey stood up and prodded Infernape, who stretched and cracked his knuckles. “Don’t come back until you’ve found a Pokémon!” he called over his shoulder. “We’ll do some specialized training with your bird. Have fun!”

Rén swiveled his head faster than she’d ever seen him do to blink at Infernape and Monkey.

“What if I can’t find any I actually want to capture?” she asked, begrudgingly walking away.

“That’s your problem, monk!” Monkey replied breezily, turning towards Rén and putting his hands on his hips. “Your job is to dodge Infernape’s Ember.” Tripitaka’s eyes widened and she sped up walking, Sage following. She did not want to be around that trio if Rén got pissed. “Why?” Monkey’s voice asked as she went out of sight and into the nearby small forest. “If you can dodge an Ember you can dodge a Flamethrower. Now Infernape, FIRE!” Tripitaka fervently prayed over the sounds of furious screeches that the three of them wouldn’t kill each other as the forest swallowed her up.

 A few minutes of walking later, Tripitaka finally took a breath, letting the sounds and smells of the trees wash over her. Sage was happily bouncing around from tree to tree, sniffing everything and rolling in the leaf litter.

“It’s nice having just the two of us again,” Tripitaka observed as Sage rubbed her cheek on the bark of a fallen log and let out a trill of agreement. As calming as the forest was, anxiety gnawed at the edge of Tripitaka’s mind at her deadline. Had to catch a Pokémon to train with the Pokémon to win a gym battle to go to another gym battle to go across the ocean to-

She sighed. She was supposed to be having fun, but it was so difficult to enjoy herself and just be in the moment like Troy would want. What if she couldn’t find a Pokémon? What if no one wanted to team up with her?

A Spearow flew overhead, and Tripitaka watched it go, not having the heart to call for Sage to chase after it. “Can you help me find a Pokémon to catch?” she asked Sage, who nodded and began to sniff around in earnest, ears up and listening intently.

She pulled out her phone and scrolled through Pokémon native to the area. Snubbull, Drowzee, Ditto might be interesting… Ralts had been reported as well, several bug-types and flying-types as well. She couldn’t really picture herself with any of them, but maybe all she had to do was to catch one and show Monkey and then she could let them go afterwards and look for another teammate along the way to Ecruteak…

Sage butted her head into Tripitaka’s ankle.

“Did you find something?” she asked as Sage tugged on her pants and chittered, bouncing up and down. “Okay, okay, lead the way,” she said with a smile as Sage trotted off at a brisk pace, stopping every so often to make sure Tripitaka was following. The trees and undergrowth parted to a small sunlit clearing with a stump near the edge, where a small Pokémon was practicing kicks and air punches. Tripitaka squinted and dared to creep closer, noting the light red arm and leg fur and the ferret-like face.

“A Mienfoo,” Tripitaka whispered to Sage. The two of them watched as the little fighting-type performed a kata of sorts, the movements leading into one another, ducking and swooshing around an invisible opponent. Tripitaka considered. She’d always been curious about martial arts and watched the monks do their own katas inspired by the swaying of Bellsprout, even if she didn’t have much athletic ability to speak of. She stood after a long while, watching the Mienfoo pause with what appeared to be an unsatisfied flick of its tail before doing the movements over again. The freedom of nobody else watching caused her limbs to move of their own accord. Tripitaka began to clumsily copy the Mienfoo’s movements. An open-palmed strike, standing on one foot that led into a jump kick that she didn’t try to attempt so as to not disturb the Mienfoo, all the while breathing deeply and maintaining focus.

The Mienfoo glanced up and over at Tripitaka with a somewhat surprised look, its movements not stopping. When the kata ended, the Mienfoo remained on the stump, observing Tripitaka, who hesitantly stepped forward.

“That was… amazing, really, Mienfoo,” she began, voice shaking with nerves although she didn’t know why. The Mienfoo rotated its shoulder and said nothing, a notched ear twitching as a buzzing insect flew past. “Um, I had a question for you… How… would you feel if you came with me on my travels?” Tripitaka blurted out the last part quickly, face turning red.

The Mienfoo’s pointy face looked bemused, and it said something to her, cocking its head.

“Oh, sorry, I don’t speak Pokémon… I’m trying to learn though?” Tripitaka suggested, heart faltering.

Mienfoo’s beady black eyes narrowed and ears flattened, and it chittered something indignantly at her before sprinting away.

“Wait!” Tripitaka cried, throwing out an arm, heart plummeting to the forest floor. Her body sagged, and Sage trotted up next to her, giving her a pitying look. Tripitaka sighed, swallowing her frustrated tears. “Do you mind if I can be alone for a minute?” she asked Sage, holding up her Pokéball. Sage shook her head and touched her nose to the button, dissolving in a beam of red light. “Thanks.”

Tripitaka sighed and ran a hand through her buzzed hair. Maybe she should’ve just thrown a Pokéball at it and hoped for the best. She sniffed, wiping her nose. That wasn’t really her style, though. That was more of a normal trainer thing. A Mienfoo probably wouldn’t have been happy with her anyway. She also had been lying to the Mienfoo… she wasn’t really trying to learn Pokémon speech. Maybe that’s why the Mienfoo had chewed her out and ran away.

Standing to her feet, she trudged on, now half-heartedly looking for any signs of life. Being informed she definitely wasn’t wanted as a trainer had knocked out whatever fight had been left in her. If she took long enough, maybe all the nocturnal Pokémon would come out and give her a chance. Or Monkey would come find her and out of pity catch her a Pokémon.

But that would be far too easy. And this journey wasn’t about making things easy for her, it seemed.

Upon finding a stream, she stopped and splashed the cool water on her face, hoping it would clear her head. Or maybe some water Pokémon would be nearby so that she could hurl a Pokéball at it and call it a day.

Although with her luck it would be a Magikarp.

She sighed and looked around, a giant weeping willow tree not too far away catching her attention. Maybe there would be a Pokémon up in the branches. At this point it didn’t matter. After walking closer, she noticed a hollow in the tree about halfway up the gnarled trunk, with a flash of golden fur inside. Her heart caught.

It was an Abra, fast asleep.

Her heart thudded. An Abra would be a very useful Pokémon to have since it was a creature well-known for its teleporting abilities. It would also make traveling back to Violet City an easy task with enough jump points in between, so visiting Troy would be much more doable. The hard part would be catching it… Abra were psychic-types that fled at any sign of trouble, so she’d have to be fast. Her mind made up, she gripped Sage’s Pokéball in her sweating hands before realizing that if she sent her out, it would make too much noise and the Abra would teleport away. So that just left throwing a ball and hoping for the best. Abra’s long tail, curled up around its cheek, twitched in its sleep. She dug around in Monkey’s pouch and maximized one of the Pokéballs, taking aim.

But her hand remained still. It didn’t seem right to catch a Pokémon that was asleep with no chance to defend itself. It wasn’t fair.

But she also needed a third Pokémon. And she also really, really wanted this one.

She released a very quiet sigh, and turned to go. Maybe if she let out Sage far enough away, they could come back and maybe challenge Abra after they woke it up. She glanced over her shoulder.

The hollow was empty.

She’d blown her chance. Again.

She ground her fist to her forehead and took a deep, shaky breath, turning to go, and about leaped out of her skin when she saw the Abra sitting in front of her.

[Well? Throw the ball already.]

Tripitaka blinked at the young-sounding voice ringing in her mind as clearly as if it had been spoken in her ear. Oh, right, telepathy. She’d never experienced that before, and to be frank she wasn’t sure if she was comfortable with it.

“Excuse me?” she asked. “Why?”

[You hesitated when other trainers wouldn’t. You’re kind.] Abra floated up higher to stare at her face through its closed eyes. Tripitaka wondered if it was looking at her mind or if it could somehow see. [And you are quite analytical. Your mind is fascinating to me.]

“Oh. Um... Thanks?” she asked. She wasn’t quite sure if she was on board with a Pokémon that could so easily read her thoughts, but then again, she considered, having a telepath would bypass her Pokémon language barrier entirely. “So you want to come with me? I’m-”

[I got the gist of what’s happening. You’re a trainer, I’m a Pokémon, and I already said I’m in. So let’s do this.] Abra sat down and whipped its long tail back and forth, waiting.

“Alright,” Tripitaka said, checking to make sure the ball was ready before reaching out and tapping Abra’s forehead with the button, watching it dissolve in the red light. “Welcome to the team, Abra.”

---

Mienfoo picked up a rock and threw it ahead of her, shuffling her feet. Maybe she’d been too hard on that human. It’s not like trainers bothered to do katas with their Pokémon, even if that human’s attempts were clumsy and amateurish.

Her mother had always said to be choosy about humans if they wanted to be caught, but to understand that no human is perfect. Maybe she could go back and find that human and maybe ask for a battle and give it another shot. Her whiskers twitched. Yeah. The human couldn’t have gotten far.

Something smacked against the back of her head and with a yelp the Mienfoo was dissolved into a red beam of energy, furiously fighting against the Pokéball before it stilled and locked with a click.

Silver knelt and picked up the Pokéball, and with some deft commands on his phone the ball disappeared into storage. He stared after it. “Welcome to the team, Mienfoo.”

I think we're going somewhere
We're onto something good here
There's only one thing left to do
Drop all I have and go with you

Chapter Text

When Tripitaka returned to where she’d last left Monkey, she found him lying on his back, Infernape sitting next to him pulling some grass up. Rén perched nearby, staring at Monkey with a disgusted face. His head swiveled to face her directly and he hooted and vigorously shook himself.

“He said ‘don’t ever leave me alone with him again,’” Monkey said without opening his eyes.

Tripitaka tried to mask her surprise that her company could possibly be preferred over someone else’s.  “What did you do to him?” she asked instead.

“Basic training. Talking about our feelings. More training,” was the blasé reply.

Upon giving Rén a onceover from a distance, he didn’t seem too disheveled, albeit some of his feathers looked a touch singed, so she believed the training part at least.

Monkey sat up and Tripitaka sent out Sage. “So what did you catch?” Sage looked up expectantly and Rén huffed but didn’t look away.

Tripitaka smiled, pleased that she’d been able to complete the task, and tossed Abra’s Pokéball. “Come out and meet everyone!”

Monkey took one look at Abra and burst into laughter, clutching his sides. “She caught a Pokémon that specializes in running away!”

Sage, ignoring Monkey’s uproar, trotted up and without a shred of hesitation touched her nose to Abra’s, sniffing all over and dipping into a play bow before running away. Abra disappeared and reappeared in front of her path, and she squealed and took off in another direction and the teleporting game resumed. Rén remained on his perch, watching them.

“This is Abra,” Tripitaka began, pleased that Sage had already befriended it as easily as a Ducklett took to water. “And guess what Rén? It’s a telepath so I can actually talk to you! Isn’t that great?”

Sage squeaked and darted over to plant her paws on Tripitaka’s leg, chattering away while Rén grunted, looking unimpressed, and turned his back.

Abra appeared in front of Tripitaka. [Sage thinks that’s great and that she loves you and Rén, right? Called you a lazy ass, I think that’s how you humans would say.]

Tripitaka’s face fell, realizing neither of those required any sort of translation. She tried to brush it off. “Rén, this is Abra. Abra, this is Rén. Maybe you two can become friends?”

Rén turned, glanced at Abra, and then swiveled his head so he was staring in no one’s direction. Abra’s ear twitched but didn’t appear offended.

Monkey and Infernape arrived to introduce themselves, Monkey already scanning Abra with his phone and Infernape prodding at Abra’s brown chest plate and Abra poking at Infernape’s shoulder armor.

“Male, estimated level seven,” Monkey reported mostly to himself. He picked the golden fox up under the arms and examined every inch of him, turning him this way and that, Abra’s limbs and tail dangling. “Looks like he’s got some good potential, but a Pokémon that only knows Teleport isn’t going to be very useful in a gym battle, little monk.” He glanced over to her. “Especially one that’s weak to ghost-types. You know. What Morty uses.”

[I have battled before,] Abra insisted with a hissed snort as Monkey set him down.

“Yeah? And did you teleport away each time?” Monkey retorted. Abra’s triangular ears flattened.

“Monkey, please be nice,” Tripitaka interrupted. “He has nothing to prove to me right now; I’m going to use Sage and Rén in the Goldenrod Gym anyway.”

Abra didn’t comment but the corners of his mouth turned downwards and his silhouette flickered before he vanished.

“Did he just blip out of here?” Monkey asked, looking all around him. Tripitaka glared and swatted his arm.

“Could you please not make my Pokémon mad for five minutes?” she demanded, her stomach fluttering in nausea at the thought that Abra might not come back. “Would it actually kill you to be kind?”

Monkey scoffed. “It’s not my fault your Pokémon are all a bunch of- oh wait, there he is.”

Tripitaka spun and saw Abra standing in front of a girl with overalls and a baseball cap on her head before he beckoned them over. Upon them jogging over, Abra tugged on Tripitaka’s arm, tail lashing.

[She is a trainer and will battle us. I’ll show you! Leave it all to me!] His thoughts sounded bright and enthusiastic, and Tripitaka couldn’t help but smile at his energy.

“I’ll admit I’ve never seen an Abra of all things want to battle this much,” the girl chuckled, adjusting her cap. “But I accept! Go, Nidorino!”

Tripitaka’s heart sank as the purple spiky rabbit emerged from its Pokéball. Sage’s ears perked up. “Yeah, we’ve battled its pre-evolution. This one is a male, though.” Sage chirped, sitting at attention, while Tripitaka considered the situation. Nidorino were notoriously prickly in battles, and did not look like it was going to be a fair fight at all.

Abra didn’t seem fazed in the slightest, just curling the end of his tail, ears turned back towards Tripitaka to listen for the one order he knew he’d get.

“Nidorino, Horn Attack!” their opponent commanded, jabbing her finger at Abra. The poison-type sprang forward with a grunt, coming at a rapid pace that belied his stubby legs.

“Okay, show us what you can do, Abra! Teleport!” Tripitaka called, hands squeezing. She watched as Abra’s outline flickered before disappearing and reappearing right behind Nidorino. Nidorino stabbed his horn at the place Abra had been, before Abra hissed something to his opponent. Nidorino spun and threw himself at Abra again, who jerked back and disappeared again.

Tripitaka and the others watched as Abra led Nidorino on a chase around the field, always blinking away at the last second and dodging every single one of Nidorino’s attempts to make contact.

“You can’t win if you don’t attack,” Monkey called, arms folded and looking bored. Tripitaka studied them. Surely Abra had a plan if he was this confident, right? Nidorino looked frustrated and tired, panting in between sprints, while Abra, looking a bit strained, was still doing well. Was the plan just to exhaust Nidorino into surrendering?

Then she realized that Abra’s chasing game was not a random pattern. He was leading his opponent into a trap. Sure enough, Abra’s next Teleport placed him right in front of a tree where he leaned up against the bark, catching his breath and clutching his head.

“Abra! You okay?” Tripitaka called, hand on his Pokéball. Maybe this was taking a toll on him after all…

The girl seized her chance. “Nidorino, do it! Do it!”

Nidorino let out a cry and charged, horn lowered. Abra watched him come, before he grinned and, at the very last possible second, blinked away, allowing Nidorino to bash into the tree full force with a mighty thud, sending a shudder all the way through the trunk, leaves raining down around him.

“Nidorino!” the girl yelled, sprinting over to him, Tripitaka and Monkey following. Upon pulling together, the three managed to work the unconscious rabbit’s embedded horn out of the bark and set him down onto the grass. After spraying him with a potion, Nidorino woke up and glanced around, looking embarrassed. Abra patted him on the back.

[Good game.]

Nidorino grunted in response with a sheepish grin, nudging his trainer’s hand with his head before she recalled him with some encouraging words. She stood.

“Well, I don’t think any trainer has ever been whooped by an Abra who only knows Teleport, but I suppose there’s a first time for everything!” she said with a smile, walking away. “Thanks for the battle!”

“See you!” Tripitaka called, feeling a glow of pride despite not having done anything. It had all been Abra’s cleverness that won that battle.

Monkey looked impressed. “Alright. I guess I was wrong about you, buddy,” he said to Abra, who puffed up with a grin. “But I don’t think that will work in other battles. Hang on a minute…” he set down his backpack and rifled through it as Sage chattered to Abra, tail wagging. Tripitaka glanced over to Rén, who hadn’t moved from his spot from earlier, but was still watching them. He turned around when he noticed she was looking at him.

“That was really cool, Abra,” Tripitaka praised. “Are you tired at all?”

[Some,] Abra admitted. [That performance at the end was mostly fake. After a bit I’ll be fine.]

“Here we go,” Monkey proclaimed, opening up a clear case and bopping Abra’s forehead with a yellow disc. “Hold still.”

“Is that a TM?” Tripitaka demanded as Abra’s body went completely still as if in a trance. “What are you teaching him?”

Monkey withdrew his hand as Abra shook his head, stupor broken. “An actual move so he doesn’t have to do that Teleport strategy for every battle he’s in.”

[What was that?] Abra asked, frowning. [I mean I feel okay, but that was weird.]

Tripitaka snatched the case from Monkey and read the cover. “It’s a Technical Machine, or a TM. It’s a human device that alters your DNA so you can utilize elements and techniques your species normally can’t. So this thing reacts with your cells-”

“Dude, he’s not going to understand anything you’re telling him,” Monkey interrupted. Abra’s mutter echoed through their minds that he sort of understood while Tripitaka shot Monkey an irritated glance.

“…And now you can use Shock Wave, I guess,” she continued. “It’s an electric-type move.”

[Oh. Okay.] Abra concentrated, sparks of yellow electricity crackling around his paws before he unleashed a small wave of sparks, some of Monkey’s hair standing up from the static. [This is cool!]

“Consider it a reward for winning your first battle and an apology for underestimating you,” Monkey proclaimed.

Tripitaka was about to ask if Sage or Rén could learn that technique as well but then realized they probably weren’t compatible with the disc. She could look that up later. “Why do you have a Shock Wave TM?”

Monkey shrugged. “Got it at a gym in Hoenn and never bothered to throw it out, I guess. Good thing I have it, right?”

“You’ve been to Hoenn?”

“I’ve been all over,” he replied, giving her an odd look. “I’ve been a trainer since I turned ten. So like-” He paused and counted on his fingers. “Nine years?”

Tripitaka couldn’t imagine being on the road for so long, much less making it a full time job like actual trainers like Monkey did. Then again, when she was ten she was too busy reading books and not comprehending why kids would want to leave home to go to parts unknown with a Pokémon.

“So yeah are we going to do this training thing or what?” Monkey asked, cracking his knuckles. Sage wagged her tail and Abra glanced at Rén, who hadn’t moved from his spot and looked bored.

“Are we going to include Rén?” Tripitaka asked. She noticed Rén’s ear tufts raised a little at the mention of his name, but was otherwise indifferent.

Monkey waved her off. “Nah. He’s way higher level than these two so for this gym we should focus on bringing Sage up to scratch for now. And Abra, just go develop your Shock Wave for now; I don’t care how,” he said when Abra slumped, looking hurt at the thought of being left out.

Abra turned to Tripitaka while she watched Monkey start looking around on the ground for something. [Why am I taking orders from him?] It felt like it was directed at only Tripitaka, like a whisper.

“He’s better at training and agreed to help us out, so just… do as he says for now,” Tripitaka whispered back. His ear twitched, and even though his eyes were closed Tripitaka got the sense he was rolling them. “Go find some wild Pokémon nearby and practice your Shock Wave on them for a bit. If it gets too scary, Teleport right back here, okay?”

He grunted and wandered off, sparks crackling around his paws as he went. Tripitaka realized that Abra’s first impression of her was probably in the garbage since she banished her newest Pokémon to essentially train himself right off the bat, but he was already gone. She bit her lip, making a promise to herself to somehow make it up to Abra when he got back.

Meanwhile Monkey had assembled a pile of sticks on the ground in front of him, Sage watching. He took a breath. “Well little lady, I’ve seen your abilities and I think the best tactic for you in battles is a run and gun dodge with a long range attack pattern. So we need to practice your dodging skills and we can build up your endurance as we go.”

“I’m sorry, what exactly are the sticks for?” Tripitaka asked as Monkey picked up a twig and tested its flexibility.

“I’m going to throw them at her,” he explained. Sage took an unsure step back.

“I’m sorry, what?” Tripitaka demanded, aghast. “We are not throwing things at Sage!”

“If she can dodge a stick she can dodge a Tackle.” Monkey looked puzzled at her fury. “It’s not like we’re chunking rocks at her. Would you rather Infernape fire some Embers at her? That’s how other people train Pokémon and it’s worked for me…”

“Just-” Tripitaka threw up a hand at Monkey to shut him up for five seconds. “We’re not doing that. It might work on other Pokémon, but not Sage.” She was beginning to regret enlisting Monkey’s help in the first place and wondered if she could make it on her own. She took a steadying breath and Monkey studied her.

His face cracked into a smile. “You know, that’s the first time I’ve seen you show some backbone for your Pokémon. Or in general. I’m glad.” He considered Sage, hands on his hips, and he glanced up at Infernape, who yawned, baring his sharp teeth. “Infernape, grab Sage!”

Infernape’s jaws snapped shut with a click and he blinked at Monkey before springing up and lunging at Sage.

“Sage, run!” Tripitaka screamed, thinking Monkey had indeed lost his mind and was going to hurt them like Silver had.

Sage squeaked and scurried under Infernape’s legs, sidestepping Monkey as he dove at her like a sports athlete diving for a ball. He landed with an oof and Infernape spun and raced towards Sage, throwing his arms out. Sage leaped over his grabbing arms and kicked off his shoulder to sprint away.

Monkey recovered and ran for her again, yelling “I’m gonna get’cha!” and that’s when Tripitaka saw the gleam in his eyes and grin on his face. He was playing.

“Sage, get some distance and when you can, launch a Swift!” she yelled.

Sage yipped back to her and darted away from another grab attempt from Monkey and sprang over Infernape’s arm and put on some speed before braking and firing some well-shaped golden stars at the pair with a cry. Infernape leaped in front of Monkey to intercept the stars with a flurry of almost invisible to the eye punches, breaking them up before any could make contact. Monkey charged out from behind Infernape, and Sage squealed with joy, scampering around them, her eyes huge and tongue lolling out from her mouth, tail wagging wildly. She repeated the dodging and gaining distance before firing a Swift game before Monkey glanced over at Tripitaka.

“A little help here?” he asked, eyes shining and hair starting to stick to his forehead.

Tripitaka couldn’t help but grin, watching Sage pivot and leap backwards from repeated grabs from Infernape. “Sage, I’m coming for you!”

They continued like that for a couple more rounds, Tripitaka tiring way faster than she should have, but Sage, despite running slower, refused to be caught. Infernape tried to cheat and snapped his fingers to trip her up with a Grass Knot, but Sage was wise to that trick now and hopped over it, dashing off and firing a Swift over her shoulder to retaliate. Infernape didn’t even try to block it; he knew he deserved that. Tripitaka seized her chance, running straight for Sage who was probably blinded by the glow of the Swift and lunged, crashing headlong into Monkey.

Tumbling to the ground in a tangle of limbs, Tripitaka found herself on top of Monkey, who had his arms wrapped around her torso. For a second she just lay there before panicking and rolling off of him while he just laughed, clutching his sides and wheezing.

“I had the same idea,” he gasped, face turning red, eyes squinted shut.

Tripitaka couldn’t help but smile with him, feeling her ears turning hot. “Are you okay? I didn’t crush you, right?”

He snorted, still sucking in air. “Not in the slightest, nerd.”

Tripitaka flopped back onto the grass next to him in relief, catching her breath and watching the clouds go by. Sage’s face came into view, cocking her head in concern. Infernape stood over Monkey, and she could see out of the corner of her eye that he looked exasperated. Tripitaka reached up and caught Sage in her hands, pulling the panting little fox over her head to put her on Tripitaka’s stomach.

“Got you,” Tripitaka informed Sage. Sage shrieked and rolled around, licking Tripitaka’s hands.

“Round one: humans,” Monkey declared, throwing his fists up in the air. Infernape pulled Monkey to his feet with a grunt. Tripitaka climbed to her feet as well, still hugging Sage to her chest. “Anyway you were right; that was way better than my method.”

Tripitaka hid her smile behind Sage’s head, feeling her heart glow knowing she had a better instinct than a seasoned trainer like Monkey. She looked down at Sage. “So do you think you could do that in a gym battle?”

“Vui!!” Sage exclaimed, eyes bright. Tripitaka smiled, setting her down so she could beg for attention from Monkey. To Sage, it was all a game. Tripitaka just had to learn how to frame everything as such.

Abra appeared right beside Tripitaka, who jumped at his sudden presence. She really had to get used to that…

[I took out a ton of bird Pokémon with Shock Wave and now I’m tired,] he informed her.

“That’s great,” Tripitaka replied, shame creeping through her body. “Welcome back.”

His tail undulated, and he sat down, face looking towards Sage who was getting her long ears waggled around by Monkey. [She seems happy. Why aren’t you?]

“I am happy,” Tripitaka said, more embarrassed by the thought that she forgot that he could sense her mood more than her embarrassment of her guilt being found out. “Well… I mean… I’m unhappy that you didn’t train with me. I’m sorry, Abra. Monkey doesn’t know everything about training my own Pokémon, and I should’ve stood up for you. I was wrong.”

Abra considered. [I don’t get why you’re unhappy. You told me to do something to get stronger and I did. It’s what normal trainers do.]

Tripitaka folded her arms. “If that’s your notion of what normal trainers are then I’d rather be abnormal.”

[You’re an odd human. But I like that. That’s why I picked you.]

Tripitaka’s heart warmed. She shuffled her feet and Sage trotted over, touching her nose to Abra’s to greet him. “Sage, you up for another round?” Sage bounced up and down before dipping into a bow. “Okay then. Abra?”

He glanced up at Tripitaka, cocking his head.

“Grab Sage.”

Sage shrieked and charged away and Abra’s face split into a grin before he teleported right in front of her path. Monkey stood next to Tripitaka, watching the two of them go. The Abra who was trying to coordinate his teleports to intercept Sage was much different than the Abra that was herding Nidorino into a trap. He was much less practiced at it, with Sage leaping over him and effortlessly twisting her body around his flailing limbs as he tried to grab her. He gave up on teleporting and tried running and then floating after her, but went back to teleporting after Sage proved far too fast for him.

“What do you say, let them go for five more minutes or until one of them drops from exhaustion?” he wondered.

“Whichever happens first, I suppose,” Tripitaka said. She looked over her shoulder. Rén was preening his wing feathers. “Rén, can you let me know when five minutes go by?” He continued to preen, offering no indication he’d heard.

Monkey cracked a half grin. “You know, you’re not completely bad at this trainer stuff,” he said. “I think you just needed a little push.”

Tripitaka watched Abra get frustrated, his face contorting in focus as he missed for the umpteenth time. Sage was still having the time of her life, even though she was tiring. Hopefully she would sleep well tonight. “I mean this is only the first day. They’re the ones doing all the work.”

Sage bounced over Abra and wove through the legs of a park bench, charging up a Swift and launching it. Abra blinked out of the way, reappearing where she had been had she not moved on to another location. She glanced at Abra and hesitated for a second too long before Abra teleported right next to her, finally grabbing her with a triumphant hiss. Sage giggled and chattered to him, tail wagging. Tripitaka smiled; considering how easily she had been evading Abra, Sage had let herself get caught on purpose to make him feel better.

After calling them both back and deciding that it was time for a break, Tripitaka pulled up her Pokédex app, relieved to be sitting after all that running around. Sage snuggled next to her leg, starting to doze off, and Rén remained where he was. Abra was still, and Tripitaka thought he was asleep until his voice popped up in her head.

[Do I get a nickname?]

“Why, do you want one?” she asked. “Rén and Sage kind of came with their nicknames. You’re the first Pokémon I’ve actually caught.”

He nodded and Tripitaka put down her phone, pondering the question. She wasn’t one to name Pokémon, but since he asked she might as well make an effort to give him a good one. “What about Lucky?”

He snorted. [Luck had nothing to do with me joining you.]

“That’s fair.”

[How about… ‘Blink and You’ll Miss Me?’ You call me Blink for short.]

“That was a Verdanturf Derby winner, so no,” Monkey interrupted, pulling blades of grass out of the ground and sprinkling them on Infernape’s head.

[Echo of our Foe’s Cries?]

“Absolutely not.”

[Crack of bone?]

“Definitely go with that one,” Monkey recommended with a grin. Tripitaka shook her head. Did normal Abra name themselves this way?

[Star of Tripitaka’s Team?] his voice held a sly edge to it.

“No,” Tripitaka sighed. “Rén might take offense to that. You know what? How about we just compromise and go with Echo. But not the last part. Just Echo.”

[Just Echo,] Abra repeated. His tail flicked. Tripitaka could almost see him playing with the name in his mind, turning it over and examining it. [I am Echo then.]

“Nice to meet you, Echo.” Monkey held up a fist and the newly-named Echo tapped it with his own. “Now I’ve got a question now that I’ve actually met an Abra. Why are your eyes always closed?”

“It’s because he’s asleep,” Tripitaka said at the same time as Echo. “Abra sleep upwards of eighteen hours a day. All that psychic stuff takes a lot out of them.”

“So when he uses Teleport, is he actually using Sleep Talk?” Monkey asked, chin propped on his fist.

[I don’t know that move,] Echo replied.

“No, no, when an Abra sleeps it’s like how a Wailmer sleeps, with half its brain awake to make them go to the surface to breathe. A part of an Abra’s brain is still awake to sense danger and communicate and battle,” Tripitaka explained, relieved that some of her research at Professor Elm’s lab stuck in her mind enough to properly articulate. She frowned. “Although I don’t know the difference between sleep and when Pokémon use the move Rest…”

Monkey sat up. “Oh, I know this one, actually. So everyone sleeps, right? When you sleep your body is actually repairing itself.”

Tripitaka already knew that, but gestured for him to continue.

“When a Pokémon uses the move Rest, it’s forcing its body to go into a state to accelerate that process. But the difference between Rest and normal sleep is that Pokémon using Rest can’t wake up naturally until it’s over. So like, humans can sort of use the move Rest, but much slower and not as good.” He sat back, satisfied. Tripitaka couldn’t help but smile at him. In the context of moves and battling, Monkey was practically an encyclopedia. For all his anti-intellectual isms, he actually was really smart. And he also knew Pokéspeech. She frowned.

With Echo on the team, she now had three points of data. And he could translate to make sure she got it right. She could actually learn Pokéspeech if she set her mind to it. She gently shook Sage awake and headed over to Rén, Echo following.

“What are you doing?” Monkey asked, pulling out his phone and glancing at the clock.

“Learning a new language,” she replied. Granted, Pokémon speech had been extensively studied and the general consensus about translation remained a collective shrug from the scientific community, but maybe Tripitaka could figure it out. First thing you learn in new languages is identifying stuff around you, right?

"That's not going to work," Monkey said from his spot on the grass, not looking up from his phone. "You can't brute force learning Pokéspeech."

"You hush," Tripitaka snapped. She didn't care that the internet had very little advice on the matter. She turned to her three Pokémon. "Okay, can you guys tell me how you would say my name? Like how would you get my attention?" Considering Pokémon lacked the ability to form the sounds that comprised her name generally they used a nickname or marker.

"Vuii-vee!" replied Sage with a wag of her tail. Two short bursts of sound. Alright, simple enough.

"Abraaa," Echo said, drawing out the last syllable. That.... wasn't similar to Sage.

Rén let out two gruff hoots. Echo and Sage shot him an annoyed glance.

[Rude,] Echo's telepathy reverberated in her head.

"What did he say?" Tripitaka asked with a sigh.

"Called you a bitch," was the deadpan reply from Monkey. Tripitaka rolled her eyes. Maybe the third point of data should be Infernape...

"Don't even think about it. I'm not letting you borrow Infernape for this," Monkey grunted, still not looking up from his phone. "Pokéspeech is heavily reliant on body language too, you know," he reminded her, which she ignored. She held up a Pokéball.

"What do you call this?" she asked.

Sage let out a trill, Echo a rumble with a barely audible hiss underlying the sound, and Rén huffed twice.

Monkey snickered. "He called it a prison," he translated.

"You're not being helpful," she muttered to the owl, who blinked an eye and fluffed his feathers. "I thought you wanted me to learn." He just stared at her.

"And I'm telling you, you can't brute force it or dance around it," Monkey replied. "It's not like human languages. Big Pokémon like Gyarados and Tyranitar communicate in snarls and roars and yet I can understand them just fine. It's not about vocabulary or whatever, it's a feeling. You have to want to connect."

"But I do want to connect, hence me trying to understand!" she protested.

"Instead of approaching it like a nerd, you probably should be asking yourself why you want to learn. Is it to make your life easier or to actually communicate with your team?"

"Oh, so it's about intentions now, too?" she snapped.

"Maybe," was the breezy reply.

She wanted to throw something at him.

Twenty wasted minutes later and Tripitaka had to begrudgingly admit Monkey was right. She’d gotten nowhere, even with Echo’s patient coaching. She had to give Rén credit; he did stay the entire time with them, even if all he was doing was offering snide remarks and not actually participating in good faith.

Monkey cleared his throat when she had to walk away out of frustration. “I think you’re about ready to challenge the gym now.”

“You think I’m ready?” Tripitaka asked, relieved by the change of topic. “We only trained a little bit.”

“For Morty? Hell no. But for a first gym? Yeah. They’re just testing if you have a basic grasp of what a Pokémon battle is.” At her silence, he butted his shoulder into hers. “Come on; if a ten year old can walk in with their Pidgey and Caterpie with complete confidence, surely you can.”

“I don’t know… Ten year olds have a lot more game than I do,” Tripitaka replied. “But yeah I think I can give it a try.”

After coaching her through the registration process, with shaking hands Tripitaka submitted her request and was scheduled to challenge the Goldenrod Gym tomorrow in the late afternoon.

“Neat, that gives us enough time to get food and maybe a few practice battles beforehand,” Monkey said.

“I’d rather it be in the morning so I can get it over with,” Tripitaka groaned. “Now I’m going to be nervous about it all day.”

“To be fair, I’m surprised you got registered at all considering how late in the day it is,” Monkey said, scratching his nose. “But no matter. You’re registered, you’re gonna kick ass tomorrow. Then we can move along to Ecruteak and then send you on your way.”

The two of them went back to the Pokémon Center to ensure everyone was in top shape, and Tripitaka checked the clock. She still had time to call Troy and let him know how everything was going. She glanced at Monkey.

“I’m going to call Troy when Rén gets back. You should sit in on it; I’m sure he’d love to meet you.”

Monkey’s eyes widened. “Your dad? Meet me?” He glanced around, suddenly self-conscious. “Does he watch the League battles?”

Tripitaka frowned. This wasn’t the reaction she was expecting. “Um, yes, he sort of is my dad, and yes meet you; you’re my friend. And I don’t know… maybe he does? He knows a lot about battling so you two should have plenty to talk about.”

Monkey abruptly stood. “I need to go change my everything first.” He took off for the door.

“Monkey, wai- and he’s gone.” Rén hopped up onto the arm of the couch she was on, dropping two Pokéballs onto the cushions next to her, not looking at her. The nurse must’ve been too busy to call Tripitaka up to collect her Pokémon and sent them with Rén. “Thanks, Rén. I’m going to call Troy in a bit when Monkey gets back, so stick around, okay?”

Rén looked at her, and his body straightened a bit in excitement as Tripitaka pocketed Echo and Sage’s Pokéballs and went to freshen up before the call, telling him she would be right back. When she returned, he was right where she left him, although now there was someone near him.

“Can I get a ‘hoooo’?” asked a coy young woman, cradling a clearly shy child on her hip, who was peeking at the owl from behind her guardian’s shoulder.

Rén stared at them both, and Tripitaka almost went to them to say Rén wasn’t a very social Pokémon and to not get their hopes up and stopped when he pronounced a distinct and gusty ‘hoo’. The child giggled and Rén partly turned his head away in a sort of dismissal.

“See? They’re not so bad,” the woman cooed, walking away. The girl giggled again, burying her head into the shoulder of protection again. Well then. Tripitaka didn’t think the bird was capable of playing along with children unprompted, but he appeared to be full of surprises.

Monkey returned not too long after, and Tripitaka looked him up and down. His hair was brushed out and he was wearing a new, much more formal attire.

“I had no idea you owned such an outfit,” she said. She couldn’t help but be impressed, although she was still confused at his behavior.

“Yes.”

Tripitaka led him and Rén over to the booth, and Monkey sat, posture stiff and ramrod straight. “It looks nice,” she offered.

“Thank you.”

She dialed the familiar number and sniffed. “…Are you wearing cologne? Why?”

“No I’m not, be quiet. It’s my natural musk.” He looked uneasy. “What’s the formal name for a monk? Your… Humbleness?”

Tripitaka rolled her eyes. “How about his name?”

Monkey threw her a desperate look.

“Oh for heaven’s sake just say ‘sir’ if you absolutely must,” Tripitaka sighed. “Why are you making such a thing out of this?”

“I’m not,” Monkey insisted. Rén huffed.

When the monk’s face appeared on screen, Tripitaka waved. “Hey, Troy!”

“Tripitaka and Rén, my two favorite people!” Troy exclaimed. Monkey tried to slink his body out of frame. “How is everything?”

Tripitaka let out a breath. “A lot’s happened; I’ll have to catch you up. But first, this is my friend Monkey.”

Troy stared at them, finally noticing they had company. His expression changed, eyes looking guarded. “He’s with you? Why?”

Monkey’s feet were bouncing all over the place although his top half was deadly still. “Hello, sir.”

This wasn’t the greeting that Tripitaka was expecting at all. “He’s helping me!”

“…I see.”

Monkey’s fingers clutched his legs and he nodded, a forced smile on his face. “Tripitaka is… well you should be very proud of her.”

“I’m always proud of her,” Troy replied. His matter-of-fact tone made her warm, although Tripitaka thought she could detect an edge to his words not directed at her.

Tripitaka cleared her throat. “I should probably update you on everything that’s happened…” She then launched into an account of what had happened since they last spoke. The new requirements for traveling out of the region, her training, the encounter with Silver and how Monkey had saved her (she didn’t include her first encounter with Monkey) and how he was now helping her prepare for the gym battles. Troy listened in silence, nodding along, occasionally looking over to Monkey and considering him. “I even caught a new Pokémon!” She released Echo onto the desk. “Echo, say hi to Troy for me.”

Echo hissed a greeting and waved. Troy’s expression brightened. “I’m so pleased you made a new friend on your own!”

“Monkey encouraged me to go catch another one and Echo… kind of chose me,” Tripitaka said. “And I’m glad with the way it turned out.”

Troy nodded. “It’s been said that every Pokémon that trainers travel with holds a piece of their soul. You can learn a lot about a person by the Pokémon they keep.”

Tripitaka kept to herself that if that was true, she had no clue what part of her soul Rén reflected. Maybe her ugliest, meanest moments possible… She cleared her throat. “So I’m challenging the Gym tomorrow.”

“Ah! You will do just fine,” Troy said with a kind smile. “Have faith and trust in your Pokémon, and there’s nothing you can’t accomplish together.” He glanced at Rén. “Do your best for Tripitaka, my friend.”

Rén uttered a small hoot and preened his chest feathers. Tripitaka guessed he had begrudgingly agreed.

Troy glanced at Echo, but she could see his gaze shift to Monkey as well. “Make sure you look after my girl. She is very dear to me.”

“Troy!” Tripitaka exclaimed. “I’ll be fine; you don’t have to tell every single one of my Pokémon to watch out for me!”

He held his hands up. “Force of habit. I apologize. Have you been keeping up with your daily reports to the good professor?”

“I still need to do mine for tonight, but yes,” Tripitaka laughed. “I’d never forget.”

He cracked a wizened grin. “I don’t know, with this new trainer life of yours you might get distracted…”

Tripitaka playfully rolled her eyes. “Good night, Troy.”

“Good night my dear. And to you as well, Rén and Echo,” Troy said, signing off.

Monkey visibly relaxed, tugging at the collar of his shirt. “He’s nice.”

“He’s a monk,” Tripitaka replied, recalling Echo back into his Pokéball and stretching. “He’s supposed to be nice.”

“I don’t know little monk, you’ve got your spicy moments,” Monkey said with a grin before dodging her scandalized swipe at his arm and leading the way back to the hotel.

You and I will share all that we know
So close your eyes and just let yourself go
We are connected we'll never be alone
We walk together forever down that road

Chapter Text

The evening progressed without any incident. After dinner and more talk of gym battle strategy as she sent her report (and after some consideration, forwarded it to Troy as well) Tripitaka went to bed exhausted but stayed awake for too long worrying about the next day.

When she awoke she found Sage curled up by her side, Rén perched on the desk, and Echo sitting upright. His ear flicked and his head turned to face her.

“Morning,” Tripitaka yawned, sitting up. She could vaguely hear noises coming from the other room where Monkey had slept. Upon dressing and getting ready to go face the day, she walked out and saw Monkey lying on his back on the sofa, feet up in the air, absorbed in his phone as she heard scraping and picking noises coming from it.

“Hey,” she said. Sage stretched, digging her claws into the plush carpet and shook herself vigorously. Infernape nodded a greeting to them. “What are you watching?” she asked, sitting down near him. Her mind buzzed, still trying to wake up.

“Mudsdale hoof trim,” he replied as she could’ve sworn she heard the sound of some sort of heavy machinery revving up.

“Do you have a Mudsdale?”

He shook his head, picking at his teeth. “Nope. Never had one.”

“Then… why are you watching it?” Tripitaka asked with a frown, watching Rén hop into the room, fluffing his wings.

“Dunno. Weirdly satisfying.”

Fair enough. She rubbed her hair, trying to scratch an itch she couldn’t find. “Well we’re going to go get breakfast… did you want to come along?” With a grunt Monkey launched himself up before she had even finished the question. Upon opening a window, Rén disappeared outside without a single word or even a backward glance.

[Can we talk?]

Tripitaka blinked, pausing mid-step. Monkey and Sage continued out the door, not noticing Echo’s telepathy, so she assumed the message was just for her.

“Yeah, of course,” she said, turning around and shutting the door behind her and kneeling to be at his eye level, even if they were closed.

[I’ve been trying to get your attention ever since you woke up,] the Abra continued, tail lashing.

So that’s what that strange itch was. “Well you don’t have to be so subtle, Echo. Just tell me in the future.”

He nodded, and his closed eyes squinted as if he were in pain.

“Are you alright?” Tripitaka asked. Nurse Joy had said he’d been fine last night…

[I made sure Monkey didn’t come into our room last night,] Echo reported.

Tripitaka didn’t quite know how to respond to that. “Did you think he would?”

[Why is he actually here?] Echo asked, tail flicking.

“You got along with him just fine yesterday, so what brought this on?”

[He could be anyone,] Echo insisted.

Tripitaka wanted to reply that she had been around Monkey a bit longer than Echo, but in reality, she didn’t know him much more than Echo did. “He saved me from a trainer who wanted to hurt us, and he wants to help me.”

[Why? What’s in it for him?] Echo’s anxious squint turned into a restrained glare. [Why do you trust him?]

“I…” Echo hadn’t struck her as the suspicious type. Granted all of these questions had been simmering in the very back of her mind, but she felt safe around Monkey. “Can’t you read his mind and figure out his true intentions?”

[I can’t do that.]

“You read mine when we first met,” Tripitaka pointed out, raising an eyebrow. “You said my mind was… fascinating.” She hated to repeat his observation. It didn’t feel right coming from her.

Echo huffed. [Abra have only rudimentary telepathy. Our brains aren’t developed enough for that kind of sophistication. We can do basic projection of speech and sensing presences. Or mind signatures, I suppose you would say. The actual mind reading and moving stuff around happens when we evolve.]

“You can only get a basic feel of someone,” Tripitaka clarified.

[Yes.]

“You said I was… analytical, right? So what kind of signature does Monkey have?”

Echo considered, kneading his paws into the carpet. [That’s the thing. Your signature is calm and bright, like it’s lit from within. His is… chaotic. Empty.] He paused. [Dark.]

His words gave her pause as she mulled that over. Chaotic, yes, but dark and empty? Monkey didn’t strike her as that type at all. Silver maybe, but not him. Either that or he was hiding something about himself, she didn’t know. What she did know is that she still had a good feeling about him, and that he was showing kindness and a willingness to help with no clear benefit to himself.

“Sage likes him,” she pointed out.

[Sage likes everyone,] Echo retorted. He cocked his head. [So again, why do you trust him?]

“I don’t know,” Tripitaka replied, although she knew that wasn’t true. Something deep down was telling her that Monkey was a good person, even if Echo thought otherwise. She sighed. “Listen, Echo… I can’t explain it, but I have a good feeling about Monkey, and I think we can trust him. So far that weird intuition of mine hasn’t been wrong. But if it makes you feel better, you can keep an eye on him. Deal?”

His eye cracked open to peer at her, revealing a soft, sleepy brown eye. [If your intuition is good enough for you, then it’s enough for me. But yes, I’ll keep an eye on him.]

The eye closed again and Tripitaka smiled, realizing she was probably one of the few people who had seen an Abra awake, even if it were just for a split second. “Thanks, Echo.” She sat back on her heels. “I appreciate you looking out for me, but you can relax. I don’t need a security guard.”

Echo cocked his head. [You’re my trainer. That’s what I’m supposed to do, isn’t it?]

A heavy fist banged on the door followed by small claws scratching on the fancy wood. “Did you get lost, nerd? Come on! We can’t start without you!”

Tripitaka chuckled to herself. Sage and Monkey probably made it all the way downstairs before noticing she hadn’t followed. It was sweet they came back. Regardless, Echo’s expectations of having a trainer was something they could talk about later.

“Let’s go; we best not keep breakfast waiting,” Tripitaka said, putting on a smile as she opened the door, Echo following her out.

---

“So what are we going to do all day before your battle?” Monkey asked, shoveling his second helping of eggs and sausage into his mouth.

Tripitaka picked at her barely-touched bowl of fruit and didn’t answer. She sort of wanted to train some more, but didn’t want to run the risk of anyone sustaining an injury and not being fighting fit. Granted at everyone’s skill level that was unlikely, but the thought still nagged at her. “I guess go over all their moves again?”

Monkey rolled his eyes. “Now you’re just psyching yourself out. We’ve been over their moves a dozen times.”

“Yes, but what if I forget in the heat of the moment?” Tripitaka demanded.

He shrugged. “Then you forget. You just have to adapt to the situation and improvise. Lots of trainers freeze up; it’s how you recover is what matters.”

Tripitaka took a bite, her stomach churning with nerves. If she was this nervous now, how bad would it be when she was actually on the battlefield? She pulled out her phone, reading over Rén’s moves again. Monkey glanced over and swatted the phone out of her hand.

“Nope. You’re still making yourself freak out. What you need…” He considered. “Is a distraction. How about we walk around the city today?”

“As long as we don’t go too far from the gym,” Tripitaka said, making sure her screen hadn’t cracked.

Monkey waved her off. “We won’t get lost. This is my hometown, remember?”

Sage and Echo were quick to accept Tripitaka’s offering of her fruit bowl. There was no way she was going to finish it with her lack of appetite right now. After watching them politely share, she stood. “Well I suppose a distraction would be good for me.”

The next couple of hours were spent being shown the sights of Goldenrod City, and Tripitaka did admit she completely forgot about her upcoming match several times. Monkey showed her the world-famous department store, and they spent quite a long time looking at all the trainer goods as well as fashion boutiques and travel gear. Echo was staring at the TMs that were way too pricey for her to buy, and Sage considered the evolutionary items on display that were also out of budget. Tripitaka picked out a modest new tent to replace the destroyed one, and while standing in line to pay, Monkey sent her to go get a candy bar and upon her return, saw he had already paid for the tent.

“Fair trade; candy bar for a tent, right?” he asked with a wink. He nodded at Sage. “You want to evolve?”

Sage backed away from the display case like it was radiating fire. “Vuiii. Eevee.”

“I get it. Whenever you’re ready, if that day ever comes.” His phone rang, and he tossed his candy bar’s wrapper in the trash.

“’Sup, Bill. You home today?” He covered the speaker with his hand. “Sorry. Important call.” Tripitaka shrugged and minimized the tent to fit into her bag as Echo stared at Monkey with pricked ears. Sage shuffled closer to the display case again, looking at the stones. Tripitaka paused, watching her, debating over whether to talk to her or not before she picked Sage up and held her near the stones. Sage put her paws on the glass.

“Those are only five possibilities for you to evolve with,” Tripitaka said, enjoying the warmth of her fur. She briefly considered how much more warm and fluffy Sage would be as a Flareon. Would she still be able to hold her comfortably as a spiky Jolteon? “The other three evolutions take time but we can work for them if… that’s what you want.”

In truth Tripitaka wasn’t sure if she was capable of bringing out advanced evolutions for a Sylveon or Umbreon. How would their relationship change if Sage did evolve?

Sage squirmed in her arms, and Tripitaka realized she’d been holding her too tightly and set her down with an apology. Sage purred and brushed up against her legs. “But if you never want to evolve, I like you just the way you are.”

Sage squeaked at this and demanded more cuddles as Monkey walked up. “We done here? Because I need to pay an old friend a visit.”

Soon they were nearing a modest but still nice looking neighborhood with decent sized houses with small yards where some Pokémon were either snoozing or running around. Monkey stopped them.

“I’m going to be in this neighborhood for a while. Friend of mine and I have to talk shop. But if you continue up this street here…” He spun her around and pointed over her shoulder at a large black building jutting over the city’s skyline. “And hang a left at the train tracks you can go visit the Radio Tower. World famous spot; the tours are great. You’ve got my number so call if you’re lost. See you!”

[I think it’s a drug deal,] Echo said. [Does anyone else think he’s doing a drug deal?]

“Echo…” Tripitaka groaned, deciding to not respond to his theory and instead walking in the direction Monkey had pointed her towards. Sage chatted with Echo, who replied with his raspy voice. Tripitaka didn’t want to butt in and ask what they were saying so she kept to her own thoughts as they made for the tower. If she was honest with herself she didn’t particularly care about touring some tower; she probably should be on the lookout for wild urban Pokémon for her report for the day. Granted the gym battle would give her plenty of material, but it felt odd to her to not be doing active field research.

Bright music coming from a building adorned in flashing neon lights yanked her from her thoughts. Some teenagers were hustling into the building, and feeling a bit brave, she decided to follow them inside. A man on a stage surrounded by scores of small tables with screens built into them tapped the mic and started his announcement.

“Welcome to Goldenrod’s first ever Voltorb Flip competition! Whoever scores the most coins in the time limit will win their choice of fabulous prizes!” He gestured behind him and Tripitaka could see various items that were clearly intended for Pokémon battles, but also a fancy looking toaster and bread maker in addition to some TMs. Maybe one of those items might give her an edge against Whitney…

“Of course, there will be a five minute practice round for anyone unfamiliar with the game…” the announcer continued.

She might as well give it a go… After picking a table she studied the rules and soon enough those five minutes were up.

“Three, two, one, and GO!”

---

“You know, I leave you alone for thirty minutes and you’ve already taken up gambling.”

“Monkey, hush,” Tripitaka hissed at him as she marked off her board. “It’s not gambling.”

“It’s a test of skill in addition to nerve!” The announcer had been hovering over her table as well as several challengers who realized they couldn’t hope to catch up to her. “I’ve never seen someone get to level seven so fast!”

“It’s a simple algorithm, there’s actually not much chance involved,” she said as she flipped the last card and the crowd exclaimed that she’d cleared another board.

Monkey shook his head, holding a puzzled Sage in his arms. “I just don’t understand how you make it look so easy. I could only get to level two with insane luck.”

The buzzer rang, and it really was no contest at all as she was declared the winner and led over to the prize counter. Monkey pointed out how each item could be used, but Tripitaka had her eye on a dark purple TM. She looked it up in the Pokédex just to be sure, but Shadow Ball could be learned by every single one of her Pokémon, and as a ghost-type move, it would be very useful against Morty.

“Not a bad outcome,” Monkey said, throwing an arm around her shoulder and ushering her through the awed members of the competition. “We can have your team practice that move on the way to Ecruteak since it’s useless for now for Whitney.”

“Speaking of which, can we head for the gym now? I want to make sure we get there in time.”

Monkey checked his watch. “We have more than enough time, but your wish is my command.”

---

The gym’s door burst open as Tripitaka reached for the handle, revealing a man in a rumpled business suit, tie askew, his eyes and nose streaming tears as he crashed through her and Monkey, cradling a limp Azumarill in his arms.

“My boss is gonna kill me,” he wailed, running in the direction of the Pokémon Center.

Monkey gazed after him. “Someone had a bad time,” he commented. Tripitaka swallowed hard, holding Sage tighter, and opened the door to the gym, hoping that her match would go at least a little better.

The interior of the gym was packed. Instead of one large battlefield surrounded by spectator stands as shown in online videos, dozens of smaller arenas scribbled onto the ground with temporary chalk dotted the floor. Trainers of all ages milled around and filed into the stands as they watched smaller battles take place. One larger battlefield took up half the space, where Tripitaka could see Whitney battling some kid. She watched in horror as Whitney’s Miltank let out a blood curdling bellow and smashed a hoof through the floor where a terrified Stantler’s head had been a moment before had it not ripped itself out of the way at the last second. Her mouth fell open.

“Relax, monk. She’s not going to use Miltank against a trainer with no badges,” Monkey soothed, ushering her over to registration so she could enter Sage and Rén’s information. The attendant, after commenting tiredly that she was early, handed her a buzzer and told her to go wait in the stands for her turn.

“So I’m not going to be battling Whitney?” Tripitaka asked, her voice a little too hopeful.

“Like she has time to battle rookies,” the attendant snorted. “No, you’ll get the first junior gym trainer that’s available.”

Tripitaka was quiet as they made for the stands. “I’m not prepared for some random junior trainer,” she whispered. “I don’t know what Pokémon they’re going to use.”

Monkey looked puzzled. “They’re going to use some sort of normal-type. What’s there to worry about?”

“Everything,” she insisted, heart hammering.

He rolled his eyes. “It’s fine. We can scope out the trainers while we wait. Speaking of scoping them out, I see someone’s watching them too.”

Tripitaka followed his gaze and she could see a giant Hoothoot perched near the ceiling, staring at all the arenas. Upon calling his name, he landed on the top of the stands they were seated in, going back to giving the battles his undivided attention. Hope swelled in Tripitaka’s chest. Maybe he was taking this battling thing seriously after all and was going to actually listen to her. She let Echo out so he could watch and cheer them on, and he squished himself between Tripitaka and Monkey’s seats with a pointed stare at Monkey.

“We’re going to do this,” Tripitaka muttered, mostly to herself. “We have to win.”

“You’re going to be fine,” Monkey said, leaning forward and watching the ongoing matches. “I don’t see anything too threatening for you down there.” After watching and chewing her lip and mentally running through Sage’s move list again, she abruptly stood, leaving for the restroom, leaving her Pokémon with Monkey.

She stared at the mirror, gripping the sink. It’s going to be fine. It’s just the first gym. It’s supposed to be easy.

“Ugh, this place sucks,” a blonde girl on her phone walked in, shoving a stall door closed behind her, having not seen or cared to notice Tripitaka. “I’ve only just managed to get a five minute break. I doubt I’m going to get a lunch today with all the stupid challengers they’re sending us.”

A pause. Tripitaka wanted to leave, but her curiosity won out.

“Yeah, those asshats at Olivine are recommending everyone come to us because ‘we’re just the normal-type gym’,” she said, ending the last part in a mocking voice. “Whatever. Bright spot, Whitney said to not make it easy for anyone. I’ve failed almost all of my challengers today.”

Tripitaka’s heart sank. They were purposefully making it hard? What would that mean for her match?!

“Anyway I’ve got to get back. At least they’re paying me overtime,” the girl muttered as she exited her stall, Tripitaka darting out the door before the gym trainer could notice she had been eavesdropping. She pushed past all the little kids in line at registration and headed for her seat, palms sweating. Monkey was engaged in a conversation with the person sitting next to him, Echo and Sage sharing Tripitaka’s seat.

“By then the rash had spread to my entire upper back and despite the discomfort of it all I said, ‘my guy, you’re swinging that glowy orb thing around like a big ol’ dick’ and then even though I beat his ass he still- oh hey Tripitaka.”

The newly freed-person shot her a grateful look and hustled past her. Monkey watched them go and upon seeing her, his expression changed. “What’s wrong?”

Tripitaka gave him an update on what she’d heard, and he frowned. “Whitney can be a bad sport about losing but she would never go out of her way to purposefully fail anyone. At least not since I’ve known her.”

Tripitaka watched as Whitney cheered as her Miltank stomped the poor Tangrowth facing them, the ground splintering from impact. “I don’t think she’s that broken up about going hard on her challengers.”

“She does enjoy her job,” Monkey agreed.

Tripitaka’s buzzer lit up and she almost dropped it in shock. Her heart started galloping faster than it ever had before and she felt paralyzed, stuck in her spot. Monkey stood her up, turned her around, and gave her a light shove. “You’re going to be fine,” he soothed. “Just get out there and kick some ass. Echo and I will be right here.”

[Good luck,] Echo called after her. Sage trilled a response and Rén hopped after Tripitaka.

The next few minutes blurred by and she found herself standing in one of the small arenas, Sage and Rén at her side. The junior trainer, thankfully not the one Tripitaka overheard, stretched and cracked her neck.

“Ready to do this?” she called, pulling out a Pokéball.

Tripitaka’s words got stuck in her throat and instead she nodded, trying to steady her breathing. The referee held up his arms.

“The match between Bridgette and Tripitaka is now underway for the challenger’s first badge! If a Pokémon is recalled it is considered out. The match is over when both of their Pokémon are out of the battle! Begin!”

“Munchlax, go!” Bridgette cried, hurling a Pokéball. Tripitaka’s mind blanked on who to send out first. She hadn’t seen a Munchlax before in this gym. They were a pre-evolution of Snorlax… weren’t they rather strong compared to other young Pokémon? Sage took a hesitant step forward before Rén fluttered into the arena, wings spread and crouched low, letting out a challenging hiss.

“Munchlax, Tackle!”

“R-Rén, you too!” Tripitaka stammered, watching the little bear jog across the battlefield, head lowered. Rén moved much faster, springing into the air and diving before the Munchlax crossed the midpoint of the arena. The owl smacked into Munchlax, sending it tumbling backwards.

Just have Rén use Tackle and other basic movement directions, Monkey had told her. Given his level Sage might not even have to battle.

Bridgette didn’t look perturbed. “Metronome!”

Tripitaka took a breath. Metronome could make Munchlax do absolutely anything in the world, with no way to prepare for it. “Rén, just keep Tackling it!”

Rén didn’t mind the command and dove at Munchlax again, who was waggling a finger around, stimulating its brain into coming up with a random technique. Rén slammed into it once again, but Munchlax braced itself and a small bolt of light launched into the air, illuminating its body with a soft glow, and it shoved Rén back.

Tripitaka and the trainer frowned. Nothing had happened. Rén hissed, spreading his wings.

Both trainers commanded a repeat of their orders, and Rén tackled the little bear right as it turned into a blob of red, smacking into Rén’s face and disappearing into its Pokéball.

“Did we win?” Tripitaka exclaimed. Rén shook his head, looking annoyed but not worse for wear.

“Munchlax used U-turn and thus was not recalled. It is still in the match,” the referee explained as Bridgette tossed out another Pokéball.

“Furret, you’re up!” The ball burst open to reveal the long furred ferret with twitching paws, cocking its soft brown head. While cute, Tripitaka knew a fierce carnivore was underneath that happy looking face. It was unknown which predator Rattata feared more, Hoothoot or Furret.

“The first move is the challenger’s,” the ref called. Rén’s head swiveled to give her a look.

Tripitaka sucked in a steadying breath. It wasn’t biology time, it was battle time. “Rén, Tackle until it’s down!”

Rén complied, taking off with a screech.

“Furret, after it! Use Quick Attack!” Bridgette yelled.

Furret darted around the arena, becoming a brown and cream blur as it took a flying leap, meeting Rén halfway into a midair collision.

“Drag it down!” Bridgette ordered.

“Rén!” Tripitaka called, blanking on what to do next as Furret locked its paws around Rén’s wings and forced them both into a crash landing where the ferret hopped up unharmed.

“Vuiiii!” Sage cheered, bouncing up and down next to Tripitaka.

Rén flapped to his feet, throwing an irate glare at Furret, although Tripitaka had a feeling he was mad at her.

Bridgette pointed at Rén. “Fury Swipes, now!”

Furret raced to Rén to begin its attack, and Tripitaka finally found her words. “Rén, Peck! Block those swipes!”

As Furret boxed Rén with its extended claws, Rén jabbed with his beak to block each strike, buffeting the Furret with his wings for good measure, backing up but not getting struck. The Furret, however, looked like its paws were definitely smarting from the strikes, rubbing them and wincing.

“Tackle again! As hard as you can!” Tripitaka’s fist clenched as he made contact, the Furret slowly rose, looking tired. Rén was winning! “Peck to finish it off!”

Rén lunged with a hoot, but Furret stilled as the soft glow that had wrapped around Munchlax earlier settled on its body. Furret’s ears perked up and watched as its scratches and bruises smeared over and healed in front of their eyes.

“No!” Tripitaka’s heart fell through the floor and Rén let out a frustrated rasp as Furret shook itself, newly energized and ready for another round. They were back to square one, although now Rén was worn out.

“Looks like Munchlax’s Wish finally came true,” Bridgette commented with a grin. “You’ll have to do better than that. Furret, Scratch!”

Rén hissed, puffing up to his full height, his eyes narrowed to slits as he watched Furret dart at him.

“Rén, do something!” Tripitaka screamed.

The owl took off, dodging the attack and tucked his wings to slam his claws into the back of Furret’s skull, bashing its body with his wings over and over and pecking it with an infuriated screech.

“Rén, use…” Tripitaka’s voice trailed off, seeing Rén had the situation perfectly under control, even if it was probably rougher than necessary. Tripitaka winced as Furret squealed and twisted its body out of Rén’s grasp but he snagged its long tail in his claws, dragging it back and digging in to resume his beating. The Furret collapsed shortly after, bleeding from several cuts and panting heavily, clumps of long fur drifting to the ground. Rén, also panting heavily, released his grip as Furret was recalled.

“Furret is out of the match,” the referee called. Tripitaka’s eyes lit up, and he held up a red flag. “Hoothoot is also out of the match.”

“What? Why? He won!” Tripitaka protested as Rén remained crouched low to the ground, wings halfway raised.

“Hoothoot was clearly out of your control and using non-League approved moves,” the referee sniffed. “He is therefore disqualified. You’re lucky I’m not fully disqualifying you for this breach in conduct. Now please bring out your next Pokémon.”

Tripitaka threw a wild glance up at the stands, trying to find Monkey but unable to as Rén slunk back to her side, puffed up and angry. Sage extended a sympathetic paw but Rén lunged at her with a hiss. Sage let out a small chirp and pawed at Tripitaka, who took a steadying breath.

“Sage, I guess it’s up to you. Remember our strategy. Run and dodge until we can attack,” Tripitaka murmured, mostly to herself. Sage nodded and sprang out on the battlefield, tail bushed.

Bridgette hurled Munchlax’s Pokéball. “You’re up again!”

Knowing that she was supposed to go first, Tripitaka nodded. “Sage, use Swift!”

“Munchlax, Metronome!”

Sage launched her starry attack with a cry as Munchlax prepared its own. Tripitaka frowned as the stars bombarded the Munchlax, but it didn’t appear to care as it finally let out a grunt and a wall of flames erupted from its gaping mouth, forming into a hellish five pointed star.

“Fire Blast!?” Tripitaka blurted out as the attack hurtled towards Sage, igniting tracts of earth as it approached. “Dodge!”

Sage didn’t need any encouragement as she threw herself between one of the branches of the flames, landing in a ball and springing to her feet.

“Another Metronome, Munchlax!” Bridgette called, not giving Sage time to breathe. The Munchlax waggled its fingers as Sage backed up, ears back. Sparks crackled from Munchlax’s paws and Sage’s fur stood on end as Munchlax let out a cry, a bolt of white hot electricity crashing from the ceiling. Sage screamed and sprang to the side as the lightning bolt crashed into the ground where she had just been. Tripitaka bit her lip. Surely there would be a gap so Sage could fight back, right? Sage stood, legs quivering as Munchlax prepared some other attack, ready to dodge.

With a final call from Munchlax, meteors wreathed in a blue fire rained down on the arena, crashing into the floor and deafening Tripitaka as Sage, screaming the entire time, somehow managed to evade every single one until the shower ended. The Eevee, fur singed and panting hard, threw a freaked out look at Tripitaka over her shoulder, who was equally shaken. Fire Blast, Thunder, and a freaking Draco Meteor all in a row? It was a miracle Sage had dodged them all, even if Munchlax looked wiped out after using such powerful moves it clearly wasn't skilled enough to properly utilize.

"Oh that is BULLSHIT!" howled Monkey from the stands.

Several oohs and giggles erupted from the young trainers waiting their turn to battle. Bridgette and Tripitaka gave him a withering look.

"Spectators will be reminded that language needs to be kept age appropriate considering there are ten year olds in here," she called sternly.

"But it IS," Monkey yelled, waving his arms. Tripitaka could see Echo’s golden face being lowered into his palm. "Kick its ass, Sage!" She wished she could melt into the floor.

"Yeah, that luck was fucking bullshit!" shrieked a kid on the sidelines who didn’t look older than five. The kids in line tittered to each other before calling out profane variations of how Tripitaka's luck was the worst and Munchlax and the gym were cheating.

“Hax!” another screamed.

"I am so. Sorry," Tripitaka muttered to Bridgette, feeling her cheeks burn.

"Trainers and spectators in the stands will remain quiet and maintain a professional environment for combatants to concentrate or will be ejected from the gym!" the referee bellowed. Monkey pouted and flopped down as the kids asked each other what the directive meant before settling.

"Munchlax, you ready?" Bridgette asked.

The little bear huffed and snapped to attention, fists clenched. Sage also crouched low, awaiting an order.

"Um, okay Sage, use Swift then!" Tripitaka said, hoping the Munchlax’s luck had finally run out. Sage fired her attack again, but Munchlax put up its paws and shielded its face, not bothering to dodge.

“Munchlax, Tackle!” Bridgette commanded. Tripitaka hoped that Bridgette would be more straightforward now and wouldn’t rely on Metronome anymore.

“Do your thing, Sage! Keep out of reach!”

The sluggish Munchlax couldn’t even dream to hope to keep up with Sage’s quick movements as she darted around it, launching Swift as often as she could. Despite Munchlax not being affected very much by the bombardments, it did eventually wear it down until it dropped to its hands and knees.

“Finish it with Tackle!” Tripitaka cried, fighting the urge to leap in the air in triumph as the Munchlax was finally brought down. Bridgette recalled it with a nod as Sage leaped into Tripitaka’s arms, chattering nonstop as Rén stood completely still, steely glare fixated on the referee.

The referee held up his arms, declaring Tripitaka the winner as Bridgette walked forward, handing her a simple square coin.

“Congrats on your first badge,” she said with a smile. “Now if you’ll clear the field, I’ve got another match.”

“Yes, of course, thank you so much,” Tripitaka said, clutching her newly obtained badge and shuffling off the field, feeling as if she’d sprinted all the way from Sprout Tower. Monkey made his way over to Tripitaka, yanking her into a side hug with one arm, the other holding a floppy Echo under his arms.

“Knew you could do it, nerd!” he exclaimed, giving Sage’s ears an enthusiastic rub. Echo squirmed out of his grip.

The referee strode over.

“Challenger Tripitaka. A moment, if you please.”

“Yes?” she asked, adjusting her grip on Sage, who cocked her head at the man. Monkey paused, raising an eyebrow.

“Your Hoothoot very nearly lost you the match,” he scolded. Tripitaka froze, unsure of how to respond. “I should have your record flagged for unnecessary roughness.”

“Unnecessary roughness?” Tripitaka echoed. “But-”

“Hey, I just saw Whitney’s Miltank bitch slap an Arbok through the wall, how is that legal?!” Monkey demanded.

The referee ignored him. “I’d suggest if you’re going to challenge another gym to not utilize a freshly caught Pokémon who does not understand League rules.”

“He- he’s not freshly caught,” Tripitaka protested, looking down at Rén, who was glaring at the man.

“That makes your lack of synchronization and control all the more disturbing. That Pokémon battled as if its life depended on it and it is your job as the trainer to curb its emotions and keep things civil. If this happens again the next referee will not be as forgiving as I was. Good day.”

The referee stalked back to his post without letting her reply. Rén swiveled his head to glare after him.

Monkey snorted. “Someone is having a bad day.”

“‘Unnecessary roughness?’” Tripitaka asked, remembering to reciprocate Echo’s offered fist bump.

Monkey scoffed again, waving her off. “That’s barely even a rule. No one ever implements it. That ref just has his head shoved up his ass.” He gripped her shoulder and gave it a little shake. “Even still. You won!”

“I did,” Tripitaka replied, her victory finally sinking in.

“Was there ever any doubt?” he asked.

“Yes,” she insisted.

“Not from me,” he gloated. “Now let’s get out of here; I’m hungry.”

Do it for your people, do it for your pride
How are you ever gonna know if you never even try?

Chapter Text

"Honestly not too bad for your first official battle," Monkey said. "A couple of mistakes here and there and you froze up a few times, but considering how nervous you were, a win is a win."

"You could've not yelled like a lunatic..." Tripitaka reminded him. “Or curse in front of small children.”

His expression soured. "Honestly your luck was the worst," he groused. "Metronome has just as likely a chance to conjure up useless moves than a fucking Draco Meteor of all things. Gyms shouldn't be using that or random chance in general as a gimmick."

“I thought their gimmick was using normal-type Pokémon?” Tripitaka asked, still feeling like she needed to lie down for a nap.

“Not really, considering Whitney uses a Clefairy. She got in trouble for advertising as a normal-type gym; it was a whole thing for a while. It was changed to ‘cute types’, whatever that means. But yeah, each gym has a type specialty (or lack of it in Whitney’s case) but they all have a gimmick. Some test your critical thinking skills, some test for athleticism, and one tests whether you can solve basic math problems.”

“And this one’s gimmick is?” she pressed.

He gave her a smug look. “Dealing with random chance. Most trainers here utilize Metronome in their battles at least once to test how people react. Considering what you rolled with, you reacted well. Sage too,” he cooed, swooping her up and peppering her with kisses. “Anyway, we should celebrate! I know a good bar not too far from the hotel; we should go!”

Tripitaka wrinkled her nose. If she were honest she just wanted to go to sleep and give herself a chance to calm down. “I don’t…”

“Wait are monks not allowed to drink?” Monkey wondered. “But you’re not technically a monk, you said? We should go; you need to loosen up a bit. Their food is good at least. Oh wait, no Pokémon are allowed in there so we’d have to leave Rén at the hotel...”

Rén. Now that she could think a bit clearly now that the haze of victory was wearing off, she realized she needed to talk to him about the match. And how he nearly lost it for them.

“Monkey…” Tripitaka interrupted him before he could ramble more. “Could I just have a minute and you go to the hotel? I’ll catch up.”

He looked puzzled, glancing between her and Rén, who was perched on a lamppost staring at them, before shrugging one shoulder and continuing on, Sage looking over Monkey’s shoulder as they left. Tripitaka took a deep breath, trying to figure out what she was going to say before calling Rén over. Echo fidgeted with his paws, tail twitching as Rén landed in front of Tripitaka a few paces away.

“Rén…” Tripitaka began, massaging her forehead. “So what was that all about, in the gym battle?”

He cocked his head, his silence as irritating as the unbothered look in his eyes.

Tripitaka took another calming breath. “Would you… care to explain at all? Anything? I’ve got Echo here so I can fully understand.”

He blinked an eye, a breeze stirring his ear tufts. He uttered a brisk hoot.

“You know exactly what I’m talking about,” Tripitaka hissed. “What happened with you going nuts in the battle? You were supposed to be in control!”

A longer hoot.

[He says he was perfectly in control of the situation. He won, didn’t he?] Echo glanced between the two of them.

“No, in control of your emotions like the referee said. You almost got us disqualified!” Tripitaka exclaimed, hands clenching. “I’ve seen you battle with Troy and you never were like that. Are you just trying to get me to fail?! Troy told you to help me!”

Rén’s ear tufts flattened and his wings extended slightly. He huffed, beak grinding, before an explosion of hoots and screeches erupted from him, wings flapping and talons scratching the concrete.

[I don’t understand you! You wanted to win so badly, so I did what I had to do. I’ve done everything you’ve asked, what my real trainer asked me to do for you, but it’s never good enough. You’re impossible.] Echo’s calm voice was a sharp contrast to Rén’s rage. [You act like you know what you’re doing with battling and flying through the world and being a trainer but you know nothing at all.]

Tripitaka scoffed, trying to shake off the stinging words before finding her own. Tears of frustration bristled in her eyes and she looked up. Rén would not see her cry. “I have been trying, Rén. I’ve been trying… so hard to understand you and give you space. It sucks that you’re away from home. It does for me too! I know I’m not the best trainer and you deserve to be with Troy. But he put us together. For some reason, he wants us to travel together and we need to make it work.” She threw out her arms. “Maybe he made a mistake-”

Rén spat something, wings tense.

[Troy doesn’t make mistakes.]

“Yeah, well, there’s a first time for everything,” Tripitaka retorted. She ground a fist into her head. She wasn’t even sure what she was yelling at Rén about anymore. She was just tired and upset and emotionally strung out. “Just… I don’t know. I’m not Troy, Rén.” More tears burned at the corners of her eyes, one falling to the ground without her permission.

A tense silence fell, before it was broken by a low series of trills from Rén. When Echo didn’t translate she looked between him and Rén. “What?”

[You say you’re trying but you’re not. I’ll travel with you, but you’re not my trainer. I’ll battle for you, but you’re never going to be worthy of it.] Echo looked supremely uncomfortable after he finished.

Tripitaka waved Rén off, just wanting the conversation to be over. “Fine. Whatever.”

Rén accepted her dismissal and flew back to his lamppost and turned his back to them, but at the moment, Tripitaka didn’t particularly care about where he went. Echo shuffled his feet.

[If all your conversations are going to be like that, I don’t think I want to be your translator.] His soft words burned through her brain. Tripitaka squeezed her eyes shut so hard she could see stars.

“No, I should imagine not,” she finally said through gritted teeth. “I’ll try not to make it a habit. I just… UGH, I don’t know what else to do to make him even tolerate me! He’s impossible.”

Echo was silent, an ear twitching, and it dawned on Tripitaka that she’d just put Echo into a very awkward situation, especially since he was still new to the team. Yet another training blunder to add to her list of wrongdoings that Rén was undoubtedly keeping track of.

[You know he can hear everything you say about him, right?]

“What?” Tripitaka blurted out, looking up at the lamppost. Rén hadn’t moved, and her heart sank. Hoothoot. Owl. From his perspective, a whisper was a shout. She snorted. “Didn’t hear me screaming when that Silver guy was attacking us.”

[He did.] Tripitaka stopped and looked at him. [He has a lot of guilt on his mind. I mean… I can’t read minds yet, but it doesn’t take a telepath to know he thinks about it a lot.]

“Oh.”

[Yeah.]

Tripitaka chewed her lip. “He couldn’t come because of the rain. It’s not his fault. I don’t know if there was anything he could do anyway; Silver was way stronger than us.”

[Still. He probably would have wanted to try. Even if a Pokémon doesn’t really like their trainer, protecting them is a Pokémon’s pride.]

“Why?”

[I… don’t know,] Echo realized. [It’s just… what I’d do, at least. Did you need me for anything else or can I go in my Pokéball?]

“Yeah, go ahead. Thanks, Echo,” Tripitaka agreed, holding it up. “And I’m sorry,” she added quietly after he’d dissolved in the beam of red light. For a minute she stood there in silence trying to process everything that had just happened. How much Rén’s words hurt even though she’d tried so hard to not care about his opinion. How those words had an uncomfortable amount of truth to them.

Maybe she was the weak link in all of this.

It was her job as a trainer, whether she wanted to be one or not, to control her own Pokémon better. She should have called Rén back as soon as he started acting up. Even before all that she should’ve tempered her own desperation to win because Sage and Rén probably could sense it. She was supposed to lead them and have her stuff together like a proper responsible trainer.

But she wasn’t.

No wonder Rén didn’t consider her worthy. She honestly doubted she ever would be, no matter how hard she tried. After scrubbing her scratchy eyes with her sleeve, she looked up at Rén’s lamppost.

“I’m going to go to the hotel and call Troy, Rén,” she said as if he was right in front of her. She wrapped her arms around herself and started the trek to the hotel and when she looked back saw he was gone.

Monkey opened the door, Sage in hand.

“Welcome back, nerd!” he greeted, ushering her inside. He took one look at her face and hesitated before foisting the little fox into her arms. “I uh… realized on the way back I sort of accidentally kidnapped Sage so I’m sorry about that…”

“It’s okay. Thanks for keeping an eye on her,” Tripitaka interrupted quickly, letting her fingers sink into Sage’s plush mane as she purred and nuzzled her cheek. “She doesn’t seem any worse for wear because of it.”

“Nah, we just watched compilations of trainers watching their Pokémon evolve,” Monkey said, flopping onto the couch and gesturing to his abandoned phone on the cushions. “Lots of people yelling ‘let’s go’ and crying, stuff like that.” When she didn’t reply, sitting in a chair with a pit in her stomach, he leaned forward. “Did something happen? Rén is here now…” His voice trailed off as he searched the look on her face that she tried to smother. “Tripitaka?”

She stood up and headed for the video call booth. “I’m going to go call Troy. You don’t have to sit in on it.”

“O-okay,” Monkey replied, voice hesitant. “I’ll just… be here, then.”

When she stepped near the booth Rén was already on the desk, crouched low with his wings out, hiding most of the screen from view. He glared.

“You can’t talk to Troy if I can’t call him,” Tripitaka pointed out. She sat in the chair and he was unmoved, staring her down. “Will you move?”

His feathers puffed up even more and his head hung low over his toes as he shook it back and forth.

“Fine,” Tripitaka groused. “You can talk to him first alone. Satisfied?”

His wings folded at his sides and his feathers slimmed down a bit as he stepped away from the keyboard. She dialed the number, ignoring his oppressive stare the entire time, and walked away before Troy picked up.

“Rén, what a pleasant surprise!” Troy’s voice faded as Tripitaka rounded a corner and disappeared into one of the many luxurious bathrooms of Monkey’s suite. The shower alone felt like it was bigger than her tiny quarters back at the Tower. She stared at herself in the expansive mirror. Her eyes were red and puffy and she didn’t look put together at all. At least Rén’s territorial demand of the monitor gave her some time to make herself look somewhat presentable so Troy wouldn’t worry too much. She ran the faucet and splashed her face. What were they even talking about?

Probably how much Rén hated her and thought she wasn’t worthy.

But would he even say that to Troy’s face and risk his beloved friend’s disappointment?

After she patted her face dry she hung the luxurious towel back up as neatly as she could and leaned against the cool marble counter. What was she even going to say to Troy, anyway? She didn’t want to make him worry any more than he already was. Just update him on the gym battle, she decided. That’s all he needed to know. She pulled out her phone and in an effort to focus her mind, started a rough draft on her update email to the Professor until a brusque hoot summoned her to the call. Rén hopped past her without looking up; he was clearly finished speaking with Troy for now.

Putting on her bravest face, she sat at the desk and couldn’t help but smile at her favorite monk’s kind expression.

“Hi, Troy.”

“Hello, my dear Tripitaka,” Troy replied. “I’ve been told you earned yourself a badge today?”

Tripitaka’s head snapped into a rough nod and she fumbled with her pocket to produce the simple coin badge to show off.

“Very well done,” Troy praised. “You should be very proud of yourself and your Pokémon that fought with you.”

“Yeah. I am. Now there’s just the next gym to get past,” Tripitaka sighed, feeling overwhelmed at the thought of doing that all over again.

Troy searched her face. “You look rather downcast for someone who has just won a victory,” the monk observed. His soft tone was enough to make her eyes water. “What’s wrong, Tripitaka?”

His simple act of concern was enough to push her tear ducts over the edge and she stifled a sob as the tears began to flow freely down her cheeks despite all her efforts to keep them locked away.

“We won but the referee said we almost didn’t because it got too rough,” she managed to blurt out around the invisible hand squeezing her throat.

“Yes, Rén said as much. He wasn’t pleased with the judgment,” Troy nodded. “Why is this a source of tears when you didn’t get disqualified?”

Tripitaka swallowed hard, lungs burning. She scrubbed at her face with her palm. “It was my fault,” she confessed. “It’s my job as a trainer to be in control of everything and I wasn’t.”

Troy leaned forward, putting his hand on the screen, waiting for her to mirror him. “My dear, being a Pokémon trainer is a partnership. Your burdens are your Pokémon’s to bear as much as theirs are your own. Your job is to support each other. Trainers or Pokémon can’t truly be victorious alone. The fault of whether things got too vicious on the battlefield isn’t yours to shoulder alone. Rén understands that. And I hope you do too.”

His words sounded true and his voice was comforting, but it didn’t dispel Rén’s angry declaration earlier. It didn’t make her worthy.

“Was there something else on your mind?” Troy prompted gently.

He would be so disappointed to learn she was making his friend so unhappy, so she kept quiet and shook her head. “Just tired from all of this. That’s all.”

Troy nodded and sat back, folding his hands in his lap. “It’s a new experience for you, so that is to be expected. But you’ve learned from it and will grow stronger because of it. So will your Pokémon.”

Desperate for a change in subject, Tripitaka remembered what she wanted to ask him. “Troy? Echo said that even when Pokémon don’t care much about their trainer, it’s still a point of pride to protect them. Why is that?”

Troy’s brow furrowed. “I’ve never pondered such a question,” he mused. “That’s an interesting perspective to have. I’d have to think on it more, but my first instinct is it all goes back to the natural competitiveness of Pokémon. A Pokémon that went through the effort of appearing before a trainer and battling and being captured by them would want to demonstrate to other Pokémon the strength in their choice and their willingness to stand by it. Even if the trainer needs to improve, it’s all about defending their own honor. Naturally this progresses to a protection born out of love which is far, far more powerful than any point of pride. That love is… an extraordinary thing. It brings out more strength and willpower for both that they didn’t know they possessed.”

Tripitaka nodded. It made sense, thinking about Sage fighting that battle with Absol and Scyther. She studied the grain of the wooden desk, her thoughts falling into despair again.

“What about for Pokémon that the trainer didn’t catch?” she mumbled, tracing it with her finger and not looking up. “How would the trainer become… worthy of it?”

The silence stretched between them and Tripitaka was afraid either she’d said something wrong or she’d start tearing up again before she could hear Troy shifting in his seat.

“That would be for the two of them to discover together,” he finally said.

Tripitaka snorted. It was a vague non-answer that was to be expected. Yes, the point of a journey was to figure these sorts of things out on her own, but he was not being helpful at the moment. “Yeah. Sure.” She cleared her throat. “I’m going to go out with Monkey to celebrate winning the badge. He says he knows a place.”

Troy’s expression turned to concern. “Is that wise? You still have your report and this Monkey-”

“I’ll get it done tonight and he’s got my back,” Tripitaka interrupted with an edge she failed to control. “I’ll be fine. I’ll talk to you later, Troy.”

She hung up before he could protest further, scrubbing more stinging tears off her face and headed for the living room. Monkey was there gently bapping the sides of Sage’s face while she mouthed his hands as Rén ignored them. Echo looked up at her approach.

[Are you alright?]

“Ready to go?” she asked Monkey, who was oblivious to Echo’s inquiry.

His hands stilled and he looked up at her with a puzzled expression before hopping to his feet. “Yeah, sure, if you are!”

“You guys stay and be good,” Tripitaka ordered. “Try to not break anything.”

“Have fun, kids!” Monkey called over his shoulder, leading Tripitaka out the door and shutting it behind them. He smiled down at her. “They’ll be fine for a few hours. We’ll pick something up for them on the way back.”

If she was honest with herself she wasn’t really thinking about them at all. All she wanted was to get away from everything for just a little while.

Monkey was uncharacteristically quiet the entire ride down the elevator and made it halfway through the lobby before he finally spoke. “So uh, how is your dad?”

“Fine.” She snorted. “I don’t think he wants me to go out with you tonight.”

“I mean, we’re not going out out,” Monkey swiftly replied. “Just getting some drinks in a purely platonic celebratory way. He has no need to worry. Unless you want it to be us going out-out in that case little monk I’m-”

Tripitaka held up a hand and he shut up. She winced. “I’ve never actually been out to a bar. Or gone out… out. Like you said.”

“Oh. Is that why Troy is so hesitant?” Monkey said. “I know my way around. I actually had my first drink at thirteen.”

“Monkey!” Tripitaka exclaimed. “That’s way too young!”

He whirled around so he was standing in front of her and threw his arms out. “Hey, I’m an orphan! I’m entitled-no, expected to be rebellious from time to time. You should give it a try! I mean you are legally allowed to. No pressure, of course, but-”

Tripitaka shook her head. “No, I think I should try new things, even if Troy might not approve…”

“HELL YEAH! Teenage rebellion!” Monkey yelled. He beamed down at her and Tripitaka couldn’t help but smile back at his energy. “Come on; it’s not far. Lots of my friends told me about this place.”

Within a few minutes the pair was at the entrance of a sporty-looking establishment. TVs were hung everywhere displaying all kinds of Pokémon sports, most of which were minor tournaments going on around the globe. Monkey led her right up to the bar and grabbed the attention of the bartender- a large, broad-shouldered man with the cleanest hairline Tripitaka had ever seen.

“IDs,” he deadpanned, pouring something into a glass for another patron. Monkey held up his phone and Tripitaka copied him until the man was satisfied with his scan. He glanced between her and Monkey. “Odd place and company for a monk.”

Tripitaka shrank back a little but Monkey waved him off. “We’re celebrating Tripitaka getting a badge! The very first one, in fact! Now can I get… two shots of Rusty Florges? She should like that one. First drink ever!”

While Monkey chatted the bartender’s ear off, Tripitaka drank in the atmosphere. It was noisy and bustling with activity, and while it was enjoyable she found herself wanting to go back to the hotel and just sleep off the day, even if she had to write up her report first. Monkey nudged her and said their drinks awaited them. As he reached for the two shots, the bartender pulled one away, giving Monkey an unpleasant look.

“A monk’s first drink should be served by the bartender, hotshot,” he growled. He offered the glass to Tripitaka with a much softer nod. Tripitaka glanced at it, noting the ruddy liquid seeping into the pale yellow layers below.

“Fine, sheesh,” Monkey muttered. “That’s not even a rule…”

“It is now. For someone like you.”

Monkey cleared his throat and raised his glass to Tripitaka. “To your victory today and for many more to come!”

“As many more as I need to get this internship,” Tripitaka agreed, clinking the glass and putting it to her lips. A tart and sickly-sweet flavor trickled down her throat followed by a not entirely unpleasant heat. She cleared her throat and set the glass off to the side. “Not… bad.”

Monkey studied her expression. “We can try a Flappletini next. Those taste like sour candies.”

The time passed by as he offered her different concoctions the bar had to offer, some she liked and some she didn’t, but each one made the unpleasant feelings about Rén and her role as a trainer fade comfortably away. Monkey didn’t ask what had happened and she kept it that way, instead just trying to match his energy until he stood.

“Breaking the seal!” he announced and sauntered off, leaving Tripitaka alone with the bartender and the other patrons who were thankfully more interested in the TV screens than her.

“Strange company you keep,” the bartender rumbled. “I’d watch my back around him.”

Tripitaka blinked when she realized he was speaking to her. “Everyone keeps telling me that about him. Why? Do you know him or something?”

“I’ve seen him plenty of times in here,” the bartender replied vaguely.

Tripitaka frowned. Monkey had said he’d never set foot in this place before; he’d only heard about this place and wanted to try it out. Before she could press further, the bartender shifted his gaze to one of the TVs and turned up the volume for one of the League matches. They watched as a Breloom hurled a Seed Bomb at some opponent obscured by a haze of smoke. Before she could ask further, Monkey flopped into the seat next to her. “I’m back. Miss me?”

“So much,” she said with a roll of her eyes. She waited until the bartender was with another patron before leaning close to Monkey. “Do you know him?”

Monkey followed her gaze. “He’s been serving us all evening.”

With a sigh, she shook her head. “I meant before tonight.”

“No?” Monkey frowned. “You’re even more of a featherweight than I thought…”

“Never mind,” Tripitaka said, waving him off. “It’s not that. It just… seemed like he knew you.”

Monkey fidgeted before downing another shot. “I have one of those faces. Although it’s hard to forget someone as handsome as me, you know?”

Tripitaka chuckled. She admired his confidence, even if it teetered dangerously close to an overbearing ego at times. Her smile faded as that nagging voice in the back of her mind said that was yet another person who hadn’t reacted positively to her companion. What exactly had Monkey done garnered that sort of ambiguous dislike from people? So far she still didn’t have any reason to think he was anything but harmless to her, but it was still a mystery she wasn’t quite ready to delve into. If it was dire, Monkey would tell her. Probably. Either way she had a dozen other more important things to worry about.

“Alright, little monk. I’ll bite.” Monkey rested his chin in his hand and looked directly at her, interrupting her thoughts. “You’re several drinks in and you’re still moping. What’s wrong?”

“I’m not moping!” she protested. “Just… thinking.”

“Looks a lot like moping to me,” Monkey pointed out. “What is it?”

She let out a sigh. What indeed. “I guess… There’s still so much to do. I’ve only done one thing since setting out and that’s get a badge and I’ve got to get to my other badge and then win it and then actually go to Orre if there’s even a boat that will take me…”

Monkey put a finger to her lips. “In my opinion you’ve done a lot more than just one thing. I mean…” He counted off his fingers. “You traveled all the way from Violet City, which is like, a dozen steps right there. You survived a feral Rattata attack. Fended off some psycho dude and met me, (arguably the most important step), caught a Pokémon, trained the ones you already had, and then got up this morning, got some new equipment, won some complicated-ass card flip tournament on your first try… And then won a badge.” His mouth quirked into a smile. “You’ve done a lot.”

“Yeah, but I still have so much more to do before I get to that internship,” Tripitaka protested.

“Travel to Ecruteak, get a badge, and get on a boat. That’s only three things,” Monkey said, beaming. “Entirely doable.”

Tripitaka chuckled. Yeah. Only three things. She fiddled with one of her glasses in front of her. “Monkey?”

“Hm?”

“I’m not having much fun here,” Tripitaka confessed.

Monkey nodded. “Yeah, this place blows. Let’s go get takeout for everyone before we head back.”

---

[Some guy tried to come into our room while you were gone,] Echo informed them when Tripitaka and Monkey walked into the hotel room with their bags of food, Sage already pawing at them. [Rén scared him off and he left in a hurry.]

Tripitaka frowned. “Was he in a uniform? Like a hotel worker?”

[How should I know?]

“I’m going to get sued,” Tripitaka moaned.

Monkey glanced around. “Well, I don’t see any blood and I left the Don’t Disturb tag on the door. Probably some new guy who can’t read. If no one says anything, I wouldn’t worry about it.” He glanced over at Rén. “Nice work.”

Tripitaka wanted to tell Rén that he shouldn’t go attacking people willy-nilly, but held her tongue. He might not have even attacked the man, she reasoned. He was just doing what she asked and protected his territory. Instead she nodded to Rén, forcing a smile on her face. “Thanks for looking after everyone.” Rén didn’t reply except to hop over to an open window and fly out. Tripitaka let out a sigh of relief. At least she hadn’t made him mad.

Infernape materialized next to the bags of food that Sage had already buried herself in, sniffing everything.

“Alright you weirdos, let’s eat,” Monkey declared.

“Yeah, we all deserve it after today,” Tripitaka agreed, finally feeling the most relaxed she’d been in a long time.

But isn't it beautiful, the way we fall apart?
It's magical and tragic all the ways we break our hearts
So unpredictable, we're comfortably miserable
We think we're invincible, completely unbreakable, and maybe we are
Isn't it beautiful, the way we all fall apart?

Chapter Text

The blob of red light disappeared into the Pokéball in Gaxin’s outstretched hand. Tripitaka stared up at him from her hands and knees on the dusty field patched with grass. He cracked a small smile and gave her a condescending nod. Tripitaka’s hands clenched into fists in the dirt, a tear burning with frustration down her cheek. Always ahead of her.

The first thing she was aware of was the headache pounding inside her skull. The next was a warm and furry bundle wedged between her chest and the crook of her arm. Sage was tucked up as tight as she could, stirring as Tripitaka blinked in the far too bright room.

“Vuii?” Sage mewed, finding Tripitaka’s gaze.

“Hi Sage,” Tripitaka mumbled, words sluggishly falling out of her mouth. She didn’t remember Sage in that position when she’d finally gone to bed after filing her report just moments before the daily deadline.

Sage squealed and rammed her soft head under Tripitaka’s chin, peppering her with frantic kisses, chattering non-stop in a concerned voice.

“Good to see you too?” Tripitaka squinted at the clock, massaging her forehead.

It was half past noon.

“No,” Tripitaka gasped, throwing off the blankets and leaping out of bed, scrambling over to her bag. Sage wormed her way out of the pile of blankets and let out a questioning trill. “I way overslept and I’m behind schedule,” she moaned. She was supposed to leave early today! That explained the headache… Tripitaka always got splitting headaches if she’d overslept. After downing a painkiller and gulping some water, she shoved everything into her bag in a panic. How had this happened?!

“Where’s Monkey?” Tripitaka asked Sage. Echo appeared to be in his Pokéball, and Rén was probably not too far.

Sage led her over to the room’s private terrace, where she could hear some grunts and the faint sound of Monkey talking.

“That all you got?” he demanded as Tripitaka stepped outside, glancing around. Her breath caught as she saw a shirtless Monkey rolling from under Infernape’s swung fist. Bouncing on his toes, Monkey dropped and swept Infernape’s legs. Infernape bared his teeth, backflipping away, the flames on his head blazing. “Do better, bud!” Monkey yelled, hand diving into his pocket as Infernape charged and hammered his fist onto Monkey, a metallic staff appearing out of nowhere and smacking the Pokémon’s arm out of the way. Monkey was on the attack now, twirling his staff and jabbing it at Infernape who parried the strikes, taking some on his golden armor plates and swatting away the others.

Tripitaka couldn’t take her eyes away. She couldn’t help but notice that beneath those fancy moves and well-trained strikes that Monkey had a lean and well-muscled figure, currently highlighted by a sheen of sweat that caught the sunlight. She felt her cheeks warm and she shuffled her feet, not wanting to interrupt.

Rén was on the railing watching the two of them spar, not looking up to greet or even acknowledge Tripitaka’s presence. She didn’t expect anything less from him, but nevertheless it did sting more than she wanted to admit.

After a few more punches were thrown and parried, Sage let out a squeal directed at Monkey, tail wagging. He and Infernape paused and he glanced over to Tripitaka.

“HA! Told you she wasn’t dead!” he exclaimed to Sage. To Tripitaka, he grinned and leaned on his staff. “What’s up, Sleepy?” Infernape nodded a greeting to her, tail swishing.

“Why didn’t you wake me up?” Tripitaka demanded, thoroughly embarrassed at herself. “I should’ve been out of Goldenrod by now!”

“We tried,” Monkey said with a shrug. “We couldn’t wake you up. You slept through your alarms, I yelled, shook you, Sage tap danced on your back, the works. You were dead to the world. You seemed fine, so I figured you needed the sleep after yesterday. No big deal.”

“It is a big deal!” Tripitaka retorted, irritated at his lack of care at her predicament. “I’m on a schedule!”

“And a few hours won’t kill you,” Monkey replied, drawing out the words as if he were stating something obvious to a ten year old. “Especially when it’s like half a day or so of walking to Ecruteak anyway. I’ve been ready to go whenever. Just figured Infernape and I could get some training in.” He grabbed a towel hanging nearby and mopped his forehead.

“I didn’t know you knew how to fight,” Tripitaka said, averting her eyes to observe the street far below.

He shrugged. “What can I say? You pick up on a few things when your partner is a fighting-type.”

She nodded, realizing that probably should have been obvious. She gestured to his staff. “I thought those collapsible staves were more of a novelty because they’re so flimsy?”

Monkey twirled the staff with a wry look to her before he slammed it with all his strength against the metal railing with a mighty clang. Sage flinched at the noise and Rén’s ear tufts flattened. He offered the solid staff for her to examine. “Expensive ones aren’t. I figured it might be useful in a pinch.” He collapsed it and pocketed the staff without any further fanfare.

“Any other weapons I should know about?” Tripitaka ventured.

“Just these GUNS, HA!” Monkey bellowed, flexing his arms. Tripitaka rolled her eyes, hiding her small blush. She’d walked right into that one. “Anyway, according to my map, there’s plenty of brunch spots on the way out of Goldenrod. If you insist, we can eat and walk to shave a few minutes off your travel time since, according to you, you’re way behind schedule. Acceptable?”

Tripitaka smiled, feeling slightly better that at least he’d planned ahead, even if it was just to account for meal times. Before long, Monkey checked out of the hotel room and the two of them headed in the direction of Route 35. After procuring a breakfast wrap, her headache melted away as she ate, and Monkey talked her ear off about everything he knew about the upcoming gym leader Morty. Several vendors lined the streets in some sort of local street fair, and as much as she’d like to stop and look, Tripitaka forced herself to keep walking. Monkey, who had no such discipline, flitted around and looked into each tent, stopping and jogging to catch up along the way. Tripitaka didn’t miss that Sage was watching Monkey’s every move, but didn’t once leave Tripitaka’s side.

“You can run along with Monkey if you want,” Tripitaka told her. “I know how much you like hanging out with him.” Sage shook her head with a low trill and butted her head against Tripitaka’s calf. One midnight blue tent near the very end of the line contained a fortune teller complete with a crystal ball, calling that she could identify Pokémon’s true potential for a small price.

“You!” she called to Tripitaka, who glanced up and met the woman’s wide eyes, puzzled at being addressed. “You have great potential within you!”

“Yeah, yeah, we all can see that for ourselves, thanks lady,” Monkey muttered, urging Tripitaka along. “Hacks, all of them.”

Tripitaka couldn’t help but roll her eyes. “You know there are plenty of humans who are actual psychics, right?”

“Sure, but you don’t see them manning booths at street fairs asking for loose change for their services,” Monkey retorted.

“I guess,” Tripitaka replied. She couldn’t help but think that woman sounded quite sincere and wondered what other revelations she might have brought to light if she’d stayed to listen. But she had a schedule to maintain and couldn’t stop for trivial things just for her ego.

Monkey nudged at the guardhouse up ahead. “Once we get into National Park we can stop for a second and teach everyone Shadow Ball so they can start practicing it.”

Oh, right. She had totally not forgotten about the TM sitting in her backpack that she needed to use. The park would be a good place anyway with all the open space.

“Wait a second. It’s Saturday,” Monkey realized.

Tripitaka frowned up at him. “Is that a problem?”

“Not a problem. Just that the bug catching contest happens on Saturdays around this time for little kids and hobbyists to play around with bug Pokémon and while it’s going on the park is closed to the public. Did you want to partake? Catch another Pokémon?”

“Not really,” Tripitaka replied. Her face fell. “How long do we have to wait?”

“Not at all if we take the road less traveled,” Monkey said with a wink, leading her into an unfriendly-looking thicket nearby, pausing. “Might as well use that TM here.”

“Might as well,” Tripitaka agreed, sending out Echo next to Sage and glancing around. “Rén, come here please. I’ve got a move for you to learn.”

[Another TM?] Echo perked up. [I like the sound of that.]

Sage wagged her tail and Rén landed a few paces behind them, eyeing the TM in suspicion. Sage eagerly darted forward and crashed her forehead to the disk, shaking herself after the procedure was done. Once Echo learned the move, Rén crept up, leaning away from her with a wary look.

“I’m not going to actually touch you,” Tripitaka informed him, pleased that she hadn’t rolled her eyes at him. “Just the disk.”

Sage murmured an encouraging noise and Rén spun his head to glare at her before he jerked his head to bump into the TM, stilling as the machine worked its magic.

“And now you all know how to use Shadow Ball,” Monkey said when Rén shuffled away, uttering a grouchy hoot. “Try it out.”

“Aim at the sky, please,” Tripitaka interrupted. Echo formed a small orb of murky violet and black energy between his paws and Sage held a blob in front of her mouth before they were released into the air, dissipating with muffled crackles, as if someone had stuffed a firecracker under a pile of down pillows.

“That was good!” Monkey praised. Echo smiled, holding his paws up and Sage nudged him. “Not a bad start. Now we can work on forming the energy better next time and go from there.”

Rén hadn’t moved, instead watching the others. “Rén? Want to try?” Tripitaka prompted. He acted like he didn’t hear. “That move is going to help you win in the ghost-type gym battle…”

He huffed and turned his back to her. Tripitaka had a thousand other things she wanted to say to him, like Troy would love to have Rén expand his move set, it would make him stronger, he needed more variety in his moves, but kept silent. Nothing she said would motivate the owl to do anything she asked if he was feeling stubborn.

“Alright, let’s keep moving,” she said, applauding herself when she hadn’t sighed. “We can practice on the go. And remember to fire them at the sky.” When everyone started walking away, she could hear the sound of a soft hissing of energy like when Echo and Sage were charging up their new attack. She snuck a glance over her shoulder and a vaguely formed blob spluttered into nothing in front of Rén’s beak. His talons squeezed the dirt, and by the time he spun his head to glare at Tripitaka she had already jerked back to looking straight ahead. Sage and Echo were catching on to the new move already; with each attempt the orbs were more solidly formed and the ending bursts more intense. “It’s okay if you don’t get it right away, we have plenty of time to practice,” she called to them, hoping Rén was listening.

“Honestly we could have them practice on Sage as a moving target once they get the hang of it, since it won’t hurt her,” Monkey mused. “And Sage could practice on Rén.”

“I don’t think he’d enjoy that,” Tripitaka replied, watching them. She adjusted her backpack and paused to fish out a rock that had made its way into her shoe. “The one thing they never tell you about going on a journey is how much your feet are going to hurt.”

“Aww, is the little monk tired already? Shall I catch a pretty little Ponyta for you to ride on?” Monkey teased. “Or perhaps even a Keldeo for your royal highness?”

“I was just complaining, but if you’re offering…” Tripitaka said with a wry grin up at him.

He looked thoughtful. “Come to think of it, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’d befriended a legendary Pokémon like Keldeo; you can befriend anything. Even me!”

Tripitaka smothered a grin. “Wait, we’re friends?”

“Ouch!” he exclaimed. “Unnecessary roughness!”

Sage darted back to Tripitaka, planting her paws on her shin and chattering. “Yes, Sage, you’re doing great, keep going.”

Monkey watched Sage dash over to Echo, the two of them already descending into firing their Shadow Balls at each other and evading them. “Sage seems to be a lot cuddlier towards you today.”

“I’ve noticed,” Tripitaka replied. “Did you say something to her so she’s breaking up with you?”

He snorted and shook his head. “She would never. I don’t think that Eevee has a mean bone in her body. Maybe she’s just extra worried about you. I mean…” He ran a hand through his hair. “You’ve kind of had a rough go of it these past few days. But all things considered on this internship thing, you’re doing great.”

His words made her heart warm. “I’ve got you to thank. Echo has been a rock star, even if he’s so new. And Sage… Well I might have given up by now if she wasn’t with me.”

“How did you meet her anyway?” Monkey asked. “She’s your starter, right? Did Troy give her to you too?”

Tripitaka shook her head. “I volunteered at Professor Elm’s lab for a work study thing and Sage was an office pet of sorts. Part of my duties involved taking care of her, and she ended up liking me so much that she volunteered to go with me on my journey. And I’m glad she did,” she said the last part quieter, watching Sage harass a wild Yanma and launching a Shadow Ball at it.

Monkey smiled. “You know, I’ve trained a few Eevee in the past,” he commented. “But Sage is extra special because she’s so perfect,” he cooed, blowing her a kiss that went unseen.

Tripitaka blinked up at him. “You’ve trained Eevees before?”

“I’ve had loads of Pokémon come and go on my journey,” he replied. “I’ve trained a lot on my travels. Infernape is the consistent one.”

“So it’s just you and him now?” Tripitaka asked.

“Yeah.” He glanced up at the sky. “Well… there’s that idiot up there too but she hasn’t come down in a long time so I don’t think that counts.”

Tripitaka followed his gaze, only seeing the clouds covering the afternoon sun. “Aren’t you worried about… her?”

“Nah. Nothing up there is strong enough to bother her. But it would be convenient if she came down and joined us,” he yelled upwards. He shrugged and went back to watching Echo and Sage. “But that’s her choice.”

“I’m sure she has her reasons?” Tripitaka guessed.

[It’s because he’s a drug dealer and she’s ashamed to be near him,] Echo insisted, standing in Monkey’s way, tail lashing.

Monkey stifled a snort and Tripitaka sighed, thoroughly embarrassed Echo had transitioned into being openly suspicious of their traveling companion. “Echo, I don’t think that phrase means what you think it means.”

“Honestly if I was in that profession I’d be a lot better-off than I am now,” Monkey mused. “Certainly wouldn’t need to travel as much.”

[It’s…] Echo cocked his head. [Where humans give you stuff to make Pokémon strong without battling. I’ve heard other Pokémon talk about them. That’s got to be against the rules, right?]

“You mean those vitamin drinks that your trainer could’ve bought back in the department store?” Monkey commented wryly, jabbing his thumb over his shoulder in the direction of Goldenrod.

“Echo, those are perfectly legal. Just really, really expensive,” Tripitaka explained patiently. “And no, that’s not what a drug dealer is.”

[So why doesn’t he talk about himself?] Echo demanded. Sage had noticed the three had stopped and trotted back to join them, tail up in the air.

“I don’t know; I didn’t ask for your entire life story when I caught you!”

[So why is he afraid of people noticing him?]

“I’m just very bashful,” Monkey said brightly.

“I’m sorry about him, I don’t know why he’s like this,” Tripitaka muttered to Monkey. Echo huffed and teleported far ahead of them.

Monkey shrugged, completely nonchalant. “I’m used to it. Knowing your luck, you got the one Abra in the forest with chronic paranoia!”

“Don’t tempt fate,” Tripitaka groaned. After a moment’s debate, she half shrugged and continued, “He said he doesn’t like your psychic signature.”

He snorted. “Throwing psychics in the friend group always makes stuff awkward. ‘Your vibes are disgusting and I hate you.’”

“Come on, he didn’t say he hated you,” Tripitaka soothed. “He’s just suspicious and is being a mother hen.”

“He’s probably desperate to evolve solely to be able to read my mind,” Monkey snickered. “With the way he’s been training it shouldn’t be long before he can glimpse all my most scandalous secrets.”

She glanced up at him. “I’m not going to pry into your life unless you want me to-”

“I appreciate it,” Monkey interrupted.

Tripitaka paused. “But you’re a good person, I know it.”

A half smile crossed his face before it faded. “I appreciate that more.”

After the two walked in silence for a while, Tripitaka glanced over her shoulder. “Rén, how is that Shadow Ball coming along?”

The Hoothoot had fallen behind, his latest attempt resulting in a jittery, unstable-looking orb that vanished when he noticed the two of them watching. His eyes narrowed and he hissed as Tripitaka cautiously approached.

“Can you show me how it’s coming along?” she asked, trying to keep her tone as delicate as possible. He let out a grouchy hoot, crouching low and shaking his head when Monkey drew near.

“TM moves can be tricky for Pokémon to get right, even for really skilled battlers like you,” Monkey told him. “Don’t get hung up on it.”

“Come on, Rén,” Tripitaka prompted. “Really concentrate on the ghost-type energy you’re drawing on.” Rén didn’t move, instead scowling at Monkey, who took the hint and ambled away, for once without a smart comment. After he was sufficiently far enough away for Rén’s taste and with repeated gentle prodding from Tripitaka, he charged up the attack once again. Already it looked closer to Echo and Sage’s, and when he jerked his head to send it flying, it looped through the air once before fizzling out. He muttered to himself and glared at the ground, talons clenching the dirt.

“That’s better!” Tripitaka praised. He didn’t look convinced, ear tufts flat and turning away from her. “Would it help you if Sage or Echo came over and practiced with you? They can give you some pointers.”

He let out a hiss and his wings snapped open, flapping at her and puffing up.

“I’m… not making fun of you,” Tripitaka guessed. “I just want you to feel like you’re improving?”

With a screech the owl took off, smacking her with his balled up talons as he passed overhead.

“Ow! Rén!” she yelled after him, watching him disappear into the trees.

Monkey jogged over to her, noting her rubbing her aching head. “What happened?”

“Rén got mad at me and flew off,” Tripitaka muttered. She’d probably got his intentions incorrect which didn’t help his already wounded pride. “This is the first time I’ve actually seen him struggle with something, aside from being civil. I didn’t think that was possible.”

“I guess gifted kid burnout can happen in Pokémon too,” Monkey suggested, stroking his chin. “If that’s the only move he struggles with, I wouldn’t worry about him. He’s more of a physical attacker anyway.”

“And he knows Foresight,” Tripitaka realized. She’d seen him get into scuffles with the wild Gastly that hung around the tower at night and didn’t seem fazed by their immunity to normal-type moves.

Monkey grinned. “Now you’re catching on! He also knows Confusion, right? Morty tends to use the Gastly line so that’s super effective on them in a pinch. Rén will be just fine, even if he never masters Shadow Ball. We can just treat it as a potential tool in his kit if he really needs it.”

Tripitaka watched Sage leap directly into Echo’s Shadow Ball, shrieking with delight as it passed right through her. “And those two seem to have it down so that’s good.”

“Some more sparring and you’ll be able to hold your own against Morty with no problem,” Monkey said with a firm nod. “Judging from the lack of challengers he’s been getting according to the website, not everyone can say the same. He’s a wily gym leader for sure.”

Tripitaka was about to reply when her phone rang. Monkey snickered at her ringtone and she was too annoyed to look at the caller ID before answering.

“Tripitaka! How goes your journey?”

Tripitaka mentally said several words that Troy would admonish her for before gritting her teeth and smiling. “It goes well, Gaxin.” To Monkey, she whispered, “He’s my cousin.”

Seeing that Monkey was starting to obnoxiously creep into her space to eavesdrop, she rolled her eyes and put Gaxin on speaker. “I… got a badge from the Goldenrod City gym.”

“That’s great! Congratulations!” Gaxin exclaimed. “I heard that Whitney is rough.”

“Yeah she is. But I got a junior trainer instead because she was so busy.” Tripitaka lightly pushed Monkey, who was still inching closer, out of her personal bubble.

“Oh, well that doesn’t really count,” Gaxin informed her. “Junior trainers are easy. But at least you got some experience with an official battle.”

Tripitaka wanted to squeeze her phone until it shattered. Naturally Gaxin had to ruin everything she accomplished. Monkey’s jaw dropped.

“What the fuck is he talking about?!” Monkey spluttered. “Of course it fucking counts!”

“Monkey,” Tripitaka hissed, covering the phone and shooting him a glare.

“Is someone with you?” Gaxin asked.

“Uh, no, just some passerby,” Tripitaka said with a nervous laugh, holding up a warning finger to Monkey. “So I’m nearly in Ecruteak… Maybe I can stop by the Bell Tower and say hi to the monks there.”

“Ahh, you could climb the tower to try to call out to Ho-oh like I did!” Gaxin suggested. “Oh wait, you’re not a guardian monk like I am; you’re from Sprout Tower. You’re not an extraordinary trainer either, so they won’t let you in beyond the first floor. Sorry, cousin.”

Tripitaka let her arm holding her phone drop and she looked to the sky to ask anyone listening for a shred of patience. Gaxin wasn’t known for his tact, that’s for sure. Echo blipped in front of her, cocking his head, and Sage skidded to a halt in front of them, equally puzzled.

Monkey looked livid. “That’s it. Give me the phone.”

“No, Monkey,” Tripitaka sighed, holding it closer. Gaxin asked if she was still there. “Yeah, I’m here.”

“Give me the phone, nerd. I just wanna talk to him,” Monkey growled, lunging for it. Sage squealed and swatted at his ankles.

“Monkey, stop!” she hissed again, twisting out of reach. Echo flickered around, unsure of who to grab first, filling her head with some buzzing psychic noise of alarm that was at the moment rather unhelpful.

“Tripitaka?” Gaxin’s voice asked. “Who’s with-”

“-and tell him to SHOVE IT UP HIS ASS!” Monkey roared. Sage flattened her ears and Echo decided to grab onto Monkey’s arm in a pitiful attempt to hold him back.

“Gaxin I gotta go bye!” Tripitaka babbled out in a rush before hanging up. Monkey and Tripitaka both stood staring at each other, Sage and Echo waiting for something to happen. “What was that?!” she demanded.

Monkey jabbed a finger at her phone. “What a fucking asshole.”

[You both got really mad,] Echo observed. [Why?]

“Because her cousin is a pompous prick,” Monkey said with a pout. “And I really want to kick his ass on your trainer’s behalf.” Echo tilted his head at that, tail swishing. Sage batted her paws at it.

“Gaxin means well,” Tripitaka sighed. “He’s actually a good guy. If not insufferable and lacking any emotional intelligence...”

Monkey snorted. “He totally blew off her accomplishments.”

[Wow. I do not like that,] Echo said.

“Yeah, from this point onwards, I hate Gaxin. I don’t care how righteous and pious the guy is; he’s still a dick,” Monkey muttered. “You are a good trainer. Even though you haven’t traveled much yet, you’ve got a lot of potential to be extraordinary, nerd. I can tell.”

As embarrassed as she was with Monkey’s behavior and forcing her hand to hang up on Gaxin, his words and willingness to stand by her made Tripitaka’s cheeks warm. Instead she picked Sage up and stroked her mane, giving Monkey a glance as Sage purred. “Thank you, Monkey. But I don’t think hating Gaxin is necessary.”

“You don’t have to,” Monkey scoffed. “I can handle that just fine on my own.”

“Let’s just keep going. Hopefully we can get to a hotel before dark,” Tripitaka said, readjusting her bag and continuing on so Monkey wouldn’t see her darkened cheeks.

“Yeah. We’re on a good pace. You two!” Monkey barked at Echo and Sage and shooing them away with mock annoyance. “Get back to work, you little hoodlums!”

At Tripitaka’s nod, the two went back to battle practice, each taking turns attacking and dodging and engaging with any wild Pokémon that would humor them. Tripitaka would occasionally call out a suggestion or point them in the direction of a wild Pokémon hiding in the trees, but ultimately she felt the two didn’t need that much direction.

“Sage, remember that you don’t have to overreact with your dodging; that wastes energy. You don’t have to dodge by a mile, just a whisker. A miss is a miss no matter the margin.” Monkey, however, was much more nitpicky about his comments and provided insight that Tripitaka would never have thought of on her own. He really was proving to be a valuable asset, and she made a note to absorb all the information he was providing. She wasn’t sure of how long Monkey was going to travel with them, but she was too afraid to ask, so she needed to learn what she could before they inevitably parted ways.

“So what’s up with you and that Gaxin guy anyway?” Monkey asked, kicking a rock out of his way.

“His dad is a monk at the Bell Tower, and is Troy’s brother,” Tripitaka replied. “We would visit each other growing up, but I never really liked Gaxin… His dad is fine as far as monks go. But he and Troy always thought that Gaxin and I were two peas in a pod; I never wanted to hang out with him, but didn’t have much choice growing up. Gaxin is always talking about himself and seems to think we’re close but I don’t think he knows much about me at all.”

“For five bucks, name a Tripitaka fact,” Monkey snickered.

Tripitaka considered. “I took Galarian as an elective in school and I’m working on my Kalosian and can get the gist of Paldean if I’m reading it, but it’s similar enough to Kalosian it’s not much of an issue. I have a knack for languages.”

“See, now that’s the Tripitaka lore I’ve been craving,” Monkey said. “So how-”

He was cut off as she heard a screech and a bloodcurdling scream coming from further down the trail. Monkey and Tripitaka glanced at each other before taking off in a sprint. “That sounded like Rén!” Tripitaka realized, feet pounding and bag slapping against her back.

Rounding a corner, she skidded to a stop and stared at a wailing little kid kneeling beside a fainted Teddiursa. Rén was in a nearby tree, puffed up and glaring at the pair with murderous intent. Tripitaka was horrified at the sight, running to the kid and throwing a quick glance at the owl, trying to not jump to conclusions about what happened. The boy threw his arms around Tripitaka and buried his head in her scarf.

“Are you alright?” she asked, checking him over. “What happened? Are you hurt?”

“That Hoothoot attacked Teddy!” the boy cried.

Monkey sprayed a potion onto the little bear Pokémon, helping it sit up when it came to. Tripitaka didn’t note any blood or visible wounds to speak of, so Rén didn’t appear to have overdone it.

“Okay, can you guess why he attacked you?” Tripitaka asked in a soothing voice, looking back up to the still furious bird.

“H-he was s-so big and strong-looking,” Teddy’s trainer hiccupped, clutching his Teddiursa closer. “I w-wanted to catch him but Teddy couldn’t reach him so I just threw the Pokéball and then it didn’t work!”

Ah. Tripitaka could see what had happened.

“This one?” Monkey asked, retrieving the fallen ball lying in the grass and examining it. “It’s in perfect working order.”

“Why didn’t it work?”

“Because that Hoothoot isn’t wild,” Tripitaka told him. “He’s with me.”

The boy looked puzzled. “But caught Pokémon stay with their trainers.”

“Rén likes to be alone sometimes,” Tripitaka explained. “He flies ahead but he’s always within earshot if I need him. Even if you could catch other people’s Pokémon, that’s not allowed. That’s why your Pokéball didn’t work; Rén is registered to mine.”

“Oh.” Teddy’s trainer looked up at Rén, eyes watering again. “But Hoothoot was mean!”

“Perhaps…” Tripitaka said, cautious to mind her tone. “But he had a right to defend himself. It was just a misunderstanding. Just tell him you’re sorry and no hard feelings, alright?”

The boy nodded and sniffled, saying he was sorry, and Tripitaka sent him on his way with another potion and a friendly wave.

Monkey chuckled. “That Teddiursa was level five at the most. Rén could’ve tapped it with a wing and that thing would’ve keeled over.”

“Rén, thank you for not overdoing it,” Tripitaka called up to him. She paused. “Are you alright?”

Rén looked annoyed, but swooped down from the tree to land on a fallen log and hooted. Tripitaka didn’t need Echo to translate; she could guess.

“I’ve read that a caught Pokémon being hit by another Pokéball hurts a lot,” she said lowly. “And again, you had every right in the world to defend yourself. I’m hoping this doesn’t happen again, but if in the future it does, perhaps we could show a little more grace to an eight year old?” She really tried to channel Troy in her words.

Rén huffed and aggressively preened his chest feathers.

[He said his retaliation was appropriate,] Echo said. He paused. [I didn’t know that other Pokéballs would hurt.]

“Yeah, it’s not a thing that happens a lot; experienced trainers can usually tell if a Pokémon is wild or not,” Tripitaka replied. It must’ve hurt Rén a lot more since he had a clear dislike of Pokéballs to begin with. “Rén, I’m glad you’re okay. And I’m not mad; you did exactly what you needed to do, so thank you for showing restraint.”

Rén huffed again and went back to picking between his toes. Tripitaka hid her smile; that was probably one of the friendliest responses the owl had ever given her. She glanced over at Monkey, who had backed away from the interaction and was staring off into space.

“Monkey? Are you okay?”

“Um.” He blinked, his eyes blank and unfocused, but was otherwise frozen in place. “Um…”

Tripitaka walked towards him, hand reaching for him, deeply concerned. “Monkey?”

He swallowed, lip trembling, not noticing her. “It hurts…”

Even Rén had stopped to consider Monkey. Tripitaka reached up to lay a hand on his shoulder. “What hurts?”

“Um. I…”

Sage let out a questioning trill, and Echo’s ears were flat, rubbing his temple. Rén put his foot down and observed with a tilted head. Tripitaka searched Monkey’s blank face, asking again if he was alright.

Monkey blinked and looked down at Tripitaka with wide eyes. “Um. Be back.” He spun around and lurched into the trees, leaving them behind. Within a few moments she could hear the distinct sound of a Pokéball bursting open to send a Pokémon out.

She turned to her three Pokémon, who were watching her and waiting for her to say something. “I’m sure he’ll be back soon,” she said.

[That was weird. Even for him,] Echo pointed out.

“Vui.” Sage agreed with a nod. Rén went back to picking between his toes.

Tripitaka paused. “Well I guess we can wait for him to get back. You all can take a break from training; you’ve been working hard today. I’ll just work on my report.”

Sage curled up at her side the instant Tripitaka sat down to pull her laptop out, although she glanced over in the direction Monkey had ran off in every so often. Echo couldn’t remain still, instead opting to practice his Shock Wave on some trees. Rén put his head in his wings and tucked up a foot. As the minutes stretched on and her email composed, Tripitaka pondered sending Sage or Echo to go check up on Monkey, but decided against it. He’d come back when he was ready, she just knew it. She kept herself occupied by doing more research on Abra physiology.

When Echo was satisfied with his Shock Wave, he looked around for more things to occupy himself with. Tripitaka watched him as he floated around the clearing, looking restless.

“Can I help you?” she asked, raising her eyebrows.

He didn’t answer, instead cocking his head at Rén. His paws moved together and a Shadow Ball began to form between his paws. Tripitaka’s face fell when she realized what kind of mischief he was about to make.

“Echo,” she warned, but he ignored her and launched his Shadow Ball at Rén, which of course passed right through him.

Rén was instantly awake, puffing up and glaring at Echo, who did a playful spin.

“Echo, please don’t antagonize him,” Tripitaka began, but even though he was completely immune to the attack, Rén still looked offended and launched himself at Echo. “Rén,” she called, voice pitchy out of fear of what Rén could do to him. Echo blipped around the clearing, and Tripitaka fumbled through her pockets for his Pokéball to recall him in case she needed to deescalate the situation. But knowing Rén, he would just wait to retaliate as soon as Echo was sent out again.

“You two! Stop it now!” she ordered, but her command fell on deaf ears as Echo led Rén around on a chase. Finally Rén froze, waiting.

Echo appeared behind him with a cackle but Rén had already charged up a Shadow Ball to slam right into him at close range. Echo gasped and collapsed, shivering and holding a paw up in surrender. Tripitaka blinked. Had Rén heard the air displace so he knew exactly where Echo was going to reappear? Echo rasped something to Rén, who went back to his perch without a sound, tucking his foot up and burying his face back into his feathers, his wrath apparently satisfied.

The Abra limped back over to Tripitaka, massaging his chest.

“What did we learn?” Tripitaka asked him. His tail lashed.

[I just wanted to play with him,] Echo muttered. [I said I was sorry.]

“He doesn’t play like Sage does,” Tripitaka reminded him. “Also you caught him off guard. Are you alright?”

[Yeah.] He smiled up at her. [But I don’t regret it.]

Tripitaka rolled her eyes. “I’m so glad. In the future, just ask him first.” She considered Rén, who was ignoring them. His Shadow Ball had looked great. Maybe Rén learned better in the heat of battle when he had a clear goal in mind, in this case, punishing Echo. She also noted that Rén had completely bypassed his poor aim by launching it at a range where he couldn’t possibly miss. Add on he wasn’t at any risk of being caught in the blast due to his natural immunity to ghost-type moves. So his Shadow Ball wasn’t completely out of the question for his battling moves, provided she had him use it in a way where it fit to his strengths. Up close and in your face, just like Rén. Monkey would be proud, she was sure.

When the sun had begun to set behind the trees, Tripitaka began to grow more concerned. Echo had settled on her other side, resting his head on her leg, and Sage was dozing off but kept forcing herself to stay awake to look for Monkey. Tripitaka bit her lip.

“You don’t think he’s run off and left us for good, right?” she asked the two of them.

Sage let out a whine but Echo shook his head. [Very unlikely.]

“Why were you holding your head when Monkey was acting like that?” she asked him.

[Ugh. Huge outburst of bad feelings.] Echo rubbed his head again. [It caught me off guard before I could shield myself.]

“Oh like listening to someone talk and then they suddenly scream in your ear?”

[That’s one way to put it, yes.] He paused. [I have no idea what happened.]

“And you wouldn’t really be able to tell unless you evolved,” Tripitaka mused. She hesitated before reaching out and rubbing behind his ear. She didn’t know if he enjoyed physical contact, but appeared to tolerate it whenever Monkey was carrying him around. Echo didn’t respond to her touch, but didn’t pull away from it either. “You know, Monkey was joking that you were hell-bent on evolving just to read his mind. What do you think about evolution, anyway?”

Echo considered, tapping a claw to his other arm. [I would be a lot stronger than I am now. So yes, I want to evolve. That is what I want for myself.]

Tripitaka tried to imagine him as a Kadabra. He’d be a lot taller and physically stronger, as well as more precise psychic abilities that she was sure he’d use to the fullest extent. It would be a big change for everyone, not just Echo. “Then that’s what we can work towards, Echo. With how hard you’ve been training I’m sure it’ll happen in no time.”

[Will the next gym battle make me stronger?] he asked.

“For sure,” Tripitaka agreed. She watched as Rén straightened, putting his foot down and staring past them. A moment later and she heard footsteps.

Monkey cleared his throat, stepping out of the trees, Infernape following. “Sorry about all that.”

“Are you okay? What happened?” Tripitaka asked, standing up to look him over.

Monkey clicked his tongue before answering. “Crippling diarrhea. Don’t go back that way.”

Tripitaka had a feeling he wasn’t being entirely truthful, but let it go. “Are you okay now?”

“Perfectly,” he said with a cheeky grin. “In fact, as an apology for holding your schedule up, there’s a decent restaurant just outside of Ecruteak, my treat. Acceptable?”

His words gave her pause. She hadn’t even considered her strict schedule the entire time he’d been gone; she’d been more concerned about him. Even today in general wasn’t that much of a setback. They’d still check into a hotel before it was too late if they didn’t lollygag, so she was still on track. Maybe she did need to relax.

“Is your stomach going to be able to handle it?” she asked warily.

A brief look of puzzlement crossed over Monkey’s face before he scoffed. “But of course. Come on; this way.”

Tripitaka followed him and before long they were in front of a small hole in the wall (or rather, hole in the trees) restaurant, the beginnings of a paved road leading into town. Tripitaka took a moment to enjoy the fairy lights strung up everywhere as Monkey led them to a table near the back corner. Pokémon were everywhere inside the dining room, to which she was grateful. Her team deserved a nice break.

Echo and Sage shared a chair, sitting next to Tripitaka. Rén parked himself on the floor in the corner, hissing as Infernape, who ignored him, flopped down near him. Food soon appeared before them, and Monkey tore into his steak with the ferocity of a Feraligatr. Tripitaka showed much more restraint with her spring rolls. She had to smile as Echo took great care with his shared plate with Sage, ensuring she had plenty of bite sized pieces.

“Hey.” Monkey nudged Tripitaka and deposited a cutting of steak onto her plate.

“I don’t want this,” she replied back in a whisper. He didn’t say anything but motioned with his head at Rén still sitting in the back corner.

Ah.

As Monkey dropped two more pieces of steak onto Echo and Sage’s plate, Tripitaka eased up from her seat and knelt near Rén, who eyed her. Infernape partly turned his body away and purposely focused on his food. Rén watched as she placed the strip on the floor and sat back. The owl looked between her and the steak before he lunged forward and snatched it in his beak, spinning his body around to hide it. Tripitaka went back to her seat and he watched her go, still hunched over his prize. When she glanced over her shoulder he hissed, feathers puffing up.

“Okay, I’m not looking!” she exclaimed, whipping around to put her entire focus on Monkey and what was left of her spring rolls, one now suspiciously missing.

Monkey’s eyes met hers, his face holding a tiny, mischievous grin as the two of them finished off their dinner and completed the rest of their journey to Ecruteak.

Keep fighting the good fight
Keep letting your light shine
‘Cause I’m never gonna leave you,
Always gonna see you through to the other side

Chapter Text

The motel they stayed at was definitely several steps down from Monkey’s luxury suite back in Goldenrod, but this place was the only one with vacancies that accepted late-night check-ins and had clean beds. It would appear the backlog from Olivine was still affecting accommodation availability. As much as Tripitaka would rather pay for her own room, the only vacancies were two beds and she didn’t consider the extra cost worth it. The two of them once again had to share, but now they were in much closer proximity.

Echo had assured her he was prepared to teleport Monkey and drop him off into the woods if he was not a perfect gentleman. Aside from some irritation at Monkey for encouraging Sage’s late night zoomies just as Tripitaka was trying to fall asleep way past her bedtime, he was well-behaved; probably to Echo’s disappointment.

She found him the next morning after her shower lying on his back on the couch, legs hooked over the back of the couch.

He was also on her laptop.

He glanced up at her stunned look. “Why is your password so complicated? It’s not like anyone would want to break into a student’s laptop.”

“You hacked into my laptop?!” Tripitaka spluttered.

“Uh, no? I am not smart enough for that, monk.” He went back to scrolling. “I memorized your keystrokes and logged in.”

At her blank look he glanced up. “I’m highly motivated when I want to be. And I was bored. Oh yeah, what the hell did you mean when you were talking about the humming sound at the Ruins of Alph? There wasn’t any humming when I visited back when I first started out. Granted that was a long time ago, but did they install a radio thing around there? Funny story, I almost missed it entirely-”

“Why are you reading my emails?!” she yelped, hurling herself at him. He snapped the lid shut and rolled off the couch and onto his feet in a smooth motion.

“Skimmed!” he protested, dodging another lunge. Sage chose this moment to wake up from her dozing and chattered at him, darting around their legs. Tripitaka dearly hoped the little fox would trip him. “I was bored and wanted to understand you better!”

“You could’ve asked!” Tripitaka spat, jumping for it as Monkey held it above her head.

Infernape burst into the room from his Pokéball, and without a sound, snatched the laptop from Monkey’s hand, handing it to Tripitaka with a weary look at Monkey.

“Thank you,” Tripitaka muttered to Infernape, who rolled his eyes and smacked Monkey upside the head. “At least one of you was raised right.”

“Well, considering he was raised by me…” Monkey began with a grin, holding a finger up, before shutting his mouth when she glared at him. His hands fell to his sides as his smile melted off his face. “Okay, I’m sorry, little monk.”

“It’s Tripitaka,” she snapped, inexplicably incensed at his nickname for her.

Monkey’s body slumped ever so slightly, his face a picture of regret. “I’m sorry, Tripitaka.”

She scowled and stuffed her laptop into her bag. It was way too early for this, and she needed to focus on her gym battle today. The very thought sent an uneasy pang through her stomach. Monkey didn’t say anything the entire time they gathered their things and checked out of the motel. That was probably helped by the lethal glares Infernape kept shooting at his trainer that were definitely noticed by both Monkey and Tripitaka.

Once breakfast had been devoured by Monkey and picked at by Tripitaka, he finally kept flicking glances at her and looking back at his empty plate, clearly itching to speak.

Tripitaka sighed. Her irritation at him had long since evaporated and replaced with unease for her upcoming battle. “What?”

He jumped at being addressed, fingers tapping together. “I won’t mess with your laptop again.”

“Noted,” Tripitaka said, dropping a blueberry into Sage’s mouth. “But what did you want to say?”

Monkey fidgeted. “How do you know that wasn’t what I wanted to say?”

“Because you have that look on your face,” Tripitaka retorted. “Come on then; let’s have it.”

He slumped with relief before shuffling in his seat. “Why do you send Troy emails anyway? Does he even have one?”

“You know, he does answer my video calls; monks aren’t completely opposed to technology,” Tripitaka reminded him.

“Oh, right, right.”

“Besides,” she went on, trying to stifle her smile. “Monks are free to have email. Just as long as it doesn’t have any attachments.”

“Boooooooo,” Monkey deadpanned, but he grinned. He cleared his throat. “So do you feel ready for Morty?”

Tripitaka’s amusement faded. “I don’t know.”

“Come on, you’ll be fine. You felt the same way in Goldenrod and it all turned out fine,” Monkey reassured her.

Tripitaka did not feel reassured. She had battled a junior trainer and had almost gotten the win nullified by not being able to control Rén’s behavior. Sage stood and placed a paw on Tripitaka’s chin, cocking her head. Tripitaka gently eased her paw off and stroked the Eevee’s ears. “Well, yes, but this is Morty I’m battling against… Not some-”

“Oh don’t tell me that prick Gaxin has gotten into your head with that bullshit,” Monkey replied hotly. “A gym battle is a gym battle and you’ve won one already. Your team perfectly counters Morty’s and is well equipped with moves to handle him. You’re going to be fine.”

Tripitaka nodded, pushing the rest of the berries around on her plate as Sage watched with interest. Monkey tapped the table next to her arm.

“Say it. Say you’re going to be fine.”

“I’m…” Tripitaka hesitated. Even if she was telling him just to placate him, it didn’t feel right.

“It’s okay, take your time,” Monkey coached.

Tripitaka steeled herself, going over his arguments. Logically, she knew she had a statistically good chance of winning. It was only the second gym. It wasn’t supposed to be extraordinarily difficult, despite Morty being an infamously tricky trainer. Monkey was right. “I’m going to be fine,” she mumbled.

“What was that?” Monkey asked, leaning over and cupping his ear.

“I’m going to be fine,” she repeated again with a bit more conviction. Sage agreed with a coo, nuzzling into her arm.

“Atta girl. Now what time was your battle again?”

Tripitaka glanced at her phone to triple check. “10:35. We have plenty of time to get to the arena.”

Monkey shoved his plate back and tossed some bills down onto the table. “Well let’s get you there, then.”

---

“Now remember, Morty is a wily one. He’s got dozens of strategies he uses depending on the teams he’s facing and situations he’s presented with.”

Tripitaka nodded at Monkey, staring at the impending gym growing larger with every step. She’d read all of the message boards and posts about Morty and read all the statistics of moves he tended to choose. He was the type of gym leader to truly test a trainer's mettle and challenge them, no matter how many badges the challenger had. Sometimes he allowed switching Pokémon out, sometimes he didn’t, and sometimes his strategy was slow and tortuous with status inflicting moves, sometimes it was fast paced with all-out attacks. However, his Pokémon were limited to four moves as per League rules, while challengers did not have such limits.

Either way, Morty required a lot of on the spot strategizing, which Tripitaka had doubts about. Even though Monkey and her team had run through practice scenarios, she still didn’t feel entirely ready.

“But…” Monkey continued. “You’re ready for his ass and you’re going to do fine. These three knuckleheads are perfectly prepared.”

Sage, Rén, and Echo let out cries of varying levels of determination as Tripitaka nodded and recalled Sage and Echo and steeled herself for her battle.

“Okay. Time to do or die.”

“Uh, what?” Monkey asked with a puzzled blink. “It’s a gym battle, nothing major. This isn’t even close to what I’d consider a life threatening situation.”

Tripitaka bristled at his offhand remark. “Monkey, this is very important to me. My whole future rides on this. If I lose, I’m going to be set back weeks. Weeks I don’t have,” she emphasized.

“You’re eighteen. Even if you somehow lost out on this internship, which I doubt, it’s not going to ruin you for life,” Monkey said, still confused. “You’re smart and have a lot of potential. There’s plenty of internships or jobs out there for you if you look.”

“How would you know?” Tripitaka fired back, her throat burning in frustration at his notion she merely needed to look harder for a career. “You’re not in the research field; it’s insanely competitive. This is my one chance to get ahead!”

Monkey’s head bobbed, looking confused. “Again, you’re eighteen. You have your entire life ahead of you to figure things out. Why are you putting so much pressure on yourself?”

“By all rights I shouldn’t even be doing this journeying thing in the first place!” she cried. “I’m not a trainer, I’m not even good at this traveling stuff! Gaxin didn’t have to deal with this gym challenge nonsense, he just got to skate on for free.”

“So… this is about beating Gaxin?” Monkey asked after a moment.

“No!” Tripitaka fired back. “It’s not about him. It’s…” she massaged her forehead, trying to find the words to say.

“Are you trying to impress Troy…?” he ventured. Rén cocked his head.

“You don’t know what it’s like!” Tripitaka erupted, tears bristling and throat closing. “You don’t know what it’s like to try so hard and want something so badly only for it to be ripped out of your hands at the last second! For every single thing to be so difficult when everyone else is just breezing on through! I’ve already had… so many things go wrong for me I just want this one thing to work out.”

Monkey was silent, hands flexing at his sides. Finally, his shoulder twitched into a half shrug. “I have… gone through hard times, monk. I’ve had plenty of things go wrong for me, but…”

“You still seem to be doing fine,” Tripitaka managed to say with a sniffle.

His look turned pained before the expression was wiped off his face. “Bad luck or circumstances don’t have to make or break you,” he said, gaze ever so slightly hardening. “It’s how you keep going.”

Tripitaka scrubbed her eyes. The platitude had merit, but it wasn’t helping dampen her anxiety about her future. This internship thing seemed like a perfect answer for her career, but at the moment it was proving to be a huge burden. Finally she sighed. “This is my dream, Monkey. Ever since I was little it’s the only thing I’ve wanted to do. And… I don’t know what I’ll do if all of this doesn’t work out,” she confessed.

Monkey frowned, and his mouth parted like he was going to say something else, but Tripitaka glanced at her phone, realizing she needed to get in there. She bit her lip. “Just… back off. Please. I just need to win this.”

The gym loomed in front of them.

“And you will,” Monkey finally said, shuffling his feet and looking uneasy. “And I’ll be cheering for you.”

Tripitaka squeezed her eyes shut, the confrontation and her unkind words to him reverberating through her mind. “Why?”

“I mean, I got nothing better to do today,” Monkey said with a smirk, ushering her inside.

---

“Monkey, my unexpected friend! It’s been quite a while!”

Morty was shorter than Tripitaka expected, his famous purple scarf and headband looking a bit worn, but he had a sharp wit in his eyes that made her cautious.

“Last time I was in here, Infernape was still a Monferno,” Monkey replied, grasping Morty’s extended arm.

“It was a good bout for sure,” Morty agreed. He glanced at Tripitaka. “Are you ready for this match?”

“I-” Tripitaka’s words caught in her throat. “I hope so.”

“Good. I look forward to your challenge.” Morty turned to Monkey. “I expect the peanut gallery will keep their coaching to themselves.”

Monkey’s grin turned sheepish as he nodded to the two of them before sauntering to the empty stands. Tripitaka watched him go, wanting more than anything to apologize to him but also trying to focus on the battle ahead.

Morty gestured to the battlefield and led her to her side. “I haven’t had nearly as many challengers as the other gym leaders of late, so my ghosts and I have been perhaps over-excited for your challenge. Best of luck to you.”

Tripitaka’s heart thumped as Morty went to his side. She gripped Echo’s Pokéball tightly in her hand, which was already sweating. They had to win this, no matter what. The referee held up his hand.

“This battle will be a three-on-three match with the Fog Badge at stake. A recalled Pokémon will be counted as defeated. The side that has defeated all three opposing Pokémon first will be the winner. Now, begin!”

Morty smiled and lobbed a Pokéball high in the air. “Gastly! You’re up first!”

Just as expected, the shock of white light formed into the dark blob surrounded by an ominous-looking vapor, giving her a mischievous grin. Time to go.

“Echo, let’s do this!” Tripitaka called, sending the Abra out. Gastly floated higher, sticking out a comically large tongue as Echo’s tail lashed, focusing on his opponent, waiting for the order he knew he’d get. “Shadow Ball!”

Morty’s eyebrows rose as Echo put his paws together and charged up the void filled with darkness, eventually sending it flying towards Gastly, hitting it square in the face.

“That’s a rather high level move for a relatively new trainer,” he commented.

“She’s freakishly good at Voltorb Flip, so buckle up for more of that,” Monkey yelled from the sidelines. Tripitaka dearly wished he had kept his mouth shut. Morty didn’t need to know her entire team had a strong and effective move against him.

Morty snorted. “Never quite understood that game. Regardless, you need more than good moves to win in this Gym. I’m already getting the impression you’re going to rely on super effective moves. Let’s see how you react when one is used against you. Gastly, Shadow Ball it right back, then.”

Uh oh.

“Teleport and dodge!” Tripitaka blurted out.

It was quite evident Gastly was far more practiced at launching the move compared to Echo; he had very little time to react before the Shadow Ball was bursting into the floor right where he had been a second ago. He blipped into existence behind Gastly.

“Shadow Ball again, Echo!” she ordered.

Morty waited until Echo had charged up the attack before calling to Gastly to vanish, stroking his chin. “If they want to play the hide and seek game, so can we.”

Echo launched the attack, bursting uselessly against the far wall, glancing around for the missing Gastly. It reappeared next to him before cackling and disappearing again as Echo charged a Shadow Ball, letting it peter out when Gastly vanished again. Echo hissed, clenching his paws in frustration.

Tripitaka ground her teeth. This clearly wasn’t going to work if Morty wasn’t going to give them enough time to counter.

“Gastly, wait for the right moment and then use Night Shade,” Morty called to the ghost.

Echo kept glancing around, waiting to dodge, the air thick with anticipation of when Gastly would reappear.

“Echo, as big as you can, Shock Wave!” Tripitaka yelled. If anything, it would reveal Gastly’s location. Echo grinned, sparks skittering over his fur before expanding outwards into a ray of bolts, covering a good chunk of the arena before one of the waves struck something near one of the corners of the arena about halfway up.

Gastly reappeared, shaking itself before firing dark bolts from its eyes at Echo.

“Shadow Ball!”

Echo leaped to the left, charging a Shadow Ball and sent it racing towards Gastly.

“Destiny Bond!” Morty ordered.

Pale wisps of light danced around Gastly and appeared around Echo just as the Shadow Ball connected, engulfing Gastly in a cloud of shadows. Echo grabbed his chest plate and collapsed with a gasp, the smoke clearing to reveal an also unconscious Gastly drifting to the floor.

Upon glancing at Gastly and Echo, the referee held up both arms. “Both Pokémon are unable to continue. Please bring out your next Pokémon!”

Morty didn’t look concerned as he recalled Gastly and pulled another ball off his belt. “Misdreavus, join us!”

Tripitaka stared, dumbfounded, as she pointed Echo’s Pokéball at him to dissolve him in a beam of red light. Morty at this level didn’t usually go for that move! At least from what the internet said…

Monkey probably had the same thought. “He’s just trying to scare you, nerd! Keep it up!” Monkey hollered, bouncing up and down behind the railing.

Tripitaka nodded, studying Misdreavus. From her research, Misdreavus was a tricky Pokémon that Morty didn’t utilize for all out attacking maneuvers. As Monkey had reminded her, over and over before they walked over, Morty liked to see how trainers reacted to his sometimes indirect and often vexing tactics. Rén tensed next to her, wings quivering at his sides.

“Not yet, Rén,” she told him. “I need you for later.” She hurled Sage’s Pokéball. “Sage, I choose you!”

It was a rather cheesy and overused phrase, but in the heat of an important battle and hearing Sage appear with an enthusiastic cry, Tripitaka now understood why trainers shouted it with their entire chests.

“The first move is yours,” Morty said, gesturing to her.

Well, there was only one move Sage could realistically do to the little blue ghost. “Sage, use Shadow Ball!”

Morty chuckled as the Eevee crouched, wagging her tail as the orb charged in her mouth before firing it at Misdreavus with a bark. “It’s like the first round all over again. Dodge, Misdreavus.”

“Rapid fire those Shadow Balls!” Tripitaka ordered, squeezing her sweating fists. It couldn’t possibly dodge them all, right?

Sage did a great job of putting all her practice to good use, each orb being tiny but fast, scattering a flurry of Shadow Balls in the air, some pelting Misdreavus, some not, but the ghost definitely didn’t look comfortable with the assault. Sage finally stopped, panting heavily but tail still bushed out and ready for more.

“Very well,” Morty replied, stroking his chin. “Use Toxic!”

“What?” Tripitaka spluttered as Misdreavus giggled and spat a glob of foul-smelling goo in Sage’s face, sinking into her fur. That… also was not a common move. Morty was not taking it easy on her. Sage retched and shook off what she could, letting out a quiet whine. Rén hooted, puffing up and looking furious. This had to be finished fast, then, before the poison whittled away all of Sage’s energy. “One more Shadow Ball! Make it count!”

Morty looked thoughtful, his eyes going between Sage charging up a final attack and Rén. “Misdreavus, Grudge!”

The ghost cackled and creepy dark flames swirled around its body as it braced for impact, the Shadow Ball connecting. Midreavus flopped to the floor like a limp rag, and Sage coughed and shook her head, looking puzzled, the dark flames sinking into her fur.

Monkey swore and Tripitaka winced, Morty recalling the ghost with some murmured praise as the referee declared Eevee the winner. Grudge was a move Morty sometimes pulled on opponents, but it wasn’t common. Maybe he was being unorthodox because his main attacking moves wouldn’t affect a normal type Eevee? Or, more likely, it was because she was unlucky.

“I’m guessing your Eevee’s only reliable way to attack a ghost-type is Shadow Ball,” Morty said. “I wish to see how you react when I take that away.”

Tripitaka bit her lip. This was going way too fast for her.

“My last one, Haunter!” Morty cried, sending out the large purple ghost, who flexed its disembodied hands and mimed some air punches with a wide fanged grin.

Tripitaka bit her lip, glancing between the large poltergeist and Sage, who was panting heavily, staring up at it and putting on a brave face. Sage was badly poisoned from that Toxic, and Misdreavus’ grudge wouldn’t allow Sage to use Shadow Ball at all. The only real option she had was Bite, but the hovering Haunter didn’t look like it would allow them to get close enough to connect. Realistically she knew that she could try it out and have Morty use one of his four moves on her and perhaps reveal a strategy, but it wasn’t fair to ask that of Sage.

She held up Sage’s Pokéball, hand shaking.

“Sage, you did great. Now come back, we’ll take it from here.” Sage glanced back as the beam absorbed her. Rén swiveled his head sharply to stare at her, expression indecipherable as she replaced Sage’s Pokéball on her belt. Morty also looked thoughtful. She swallowed hard, glancing at Rén. “I guess it’s all up to you, now.”

This would normally be the point in the movie where trainer and Pokémon share a glance and nod in mutual understanding, perfectly in tune for one last big battle, but Rén, being who he was, just hopped out onto the battlefield, wings half open and shivering with anticipation. Haunter cracked its knuckles, sounding like a handful of icepicks clashing.

Tripitaka took a deep breath. Her nerves weren’t going to handle this if they went for much longer. The most powerful move they had would have to do.

“Shadow Ball, Rén!” she called, feeling like a broken record. Rén charged the orb in front of his beak, stuttering in size and shaking, before sending it at a meandering pace at the ghost.

Haunter lazily watched the attack miss by several feet.

“I see your Hoothoot is not nearly as adept at using that move as the others were,” Morty commented.

Rén turned his head to glare at Tripitaka, ear tufts flat against his head.

“Don’t look at me like that!” she retorted. “Just… try again,” she said lamely as any other tactic fled her mind.

“Haunter, you’re going to have plenty of time to get in there and use a Hypnosis, close-range,” Morty called. Haunter dove, hands extended and grabbed Rén’s head, the Shadow Ball fizzling out into nothing. The ghost’s eyes glowed a sinister crimson, forcing Rén to stare directly into its eyes.

Tripitaka grinned. That move wouldn’t work on Rén at all; his ability to focus in battle and his sheer will prevented him from being put to sleep. “Confusion!” she shouted. A close range super effective attack!

Rén hissed and Haunter took on a blue glow, being forced back with a flash and cringing from the telekinetic move.

“I can see why you would save your Hoothoot for last,” Morty said. “It has the Insomnia ability, I presume?”

“Yes he does,” Tripitaka replied, giddy that Morty had wasted a move. “And you can’t use your ghost-type moves on him either.”

“A good counter to my Haunter,” Morty said with a nod. “I would normally combo from Hypnosis into Dream Eater, but it seems that tactic won’t work here. As a gym leader I am here to demonstrate and challenge your flexibility in battle. Should we continue and see how it goes?”

“How it’s going to go is we’re gonna win,” Tripitaka said under her breath. Rén’s ear tufts twitched. Taking inspiration from yesterday with the incident with Echo, Tripitaka called “Fly after it and try to get a Shadow Ball in close range!”

Rén took off without a sound, already charging the attack in his beak. Haunter cackled and hovered higher, leading the owl on a chase around the arena.

“Sucker Punch!” Morty shouted.

Haunter vanished and reappeared right beside Rén, smacking a clenched fist into the side of his head, forcing the Shadow Ball careening into the ground before swooping away and vanishing just like that tricky Gastly did.

“Rén, are you okay?” Tripitaka called. He hooted, his flight straightening out. Clearly spamming Shadow Ball wasn’t the best tactic for Haunter. It was way too fast and Rén wasn’t that great at Shadow Ball yet. It had to be a straightforward attack, just how Rén liked it. “Then use Foresight!”

With a hoot Rén sent a wave of blue light to cover the entire arena, revealing Haunter hiding just above the ground. It gave Morty a concerned look.

“Don’t let it get away! Tackle!”

“Payback!” Morty barked.

Rén folded his wings into a dive and crashed his entire body into Haunter, who looked like it had the ghost equivalent of having the wind knocked out of it before it managed to connect an uppercut with a fist swirling with pitch-black energy. Tripitaka cringed as Rén tumbled midair before fighting to regain his balance. Monkey had told her Haunters weren’t that adept at using physical attacking moves compared to their long ranged ones, but this Haunter didn’t seem deterred by that assumption.

“Again, Tackle! You got this!” she cheered. Rén didn’t appear moved by her words, merely aiming and diving at his opponent again.

Morty’s face was intense. “Grab it!”

Haunter, expression mirroring its trainer’s, swung its hands up as Rén threw his claws out, both Pokémon straining against each other midair. Rén, flapping furiously and hissing, tried to twist his body to throw Haunter to the side, but the ghost glared, unmoved.

“Don’t let go!” Morty yelled. “Now use Thunder Punch!”

Tripitaka’s blood froze as one of Haunter’s fists crackled with electricity, viciously sending the charge directly into Rén’s body. He went limp, and Haunter, still holding on, swung the owl around by the feet and smashed him into the floor.

“Rén!” Tripitaka screamed. This couldn’t be happening. This couldn’t be happening-

“I’m quite pleased a rookie trainer like yourself forced my hand like this,” Morty commented. Rén, shivering and furiously hissing and uselessly flapping his wings, straining against the Haunter, talons locked in its claws as the Haunter pinned his back to the floor. “Normally I wouldn’t bring out Thunder Punch against a trainer with only one badge, but you’re a shrewd one. I’m curious how you’ll respond.”

He’s just trying to freak you out, you need to stay calm, she reminded herself. Rén is tougher than he looks and Haunters aren’t that strong at physical attacks. “You can still win this, Rén!” she called, her voice shaking. Rén didn’t respond but to strain against Haunter more, eyes narrowed.

“I’m reminded of a battle with another monk,” Morty mused, watching them. “He was quite a strong trainer. I didn’t really have a chance to show off my tactics to him since he beat me so fast, but I’m sure he would have responded as well as you have. Gaxin, I believe it was.”

Well of course it was Gaxin.

Blood screaming under her skin, she seethed at the comparison. “Rén, keep it trapped and use Confusion!”

“Throw it!” Morty responded.

Haunter reacted first and motioned to fling the owl away, but Rén clearly was still holding a grudge for that Thunder Punch earlier and dug his claws in that much tighter, tight enough for the Haunter to shriek in pain. Rén’s eyes shone blue and focused to a point on his forehead. Flapping wildly to keep them stable, he slammed his head into Haunter’s, excess psychic energy leaking off Haunter’s body in waves.

Tripitaka stared as Rén banked away, screeching a raspy triumphant call as Haunter clutched its head, looking pained.

“What was that?” she called to nobody in particular.

“He figured out how to use Zen Headbutt in the middle of a battle,” Monkey answered, his beaming grin visible from the stadium seats. “Very cool.”

Tripitaka studied Rén and Haunter. Rén’s disheveled feathers were charred in some places and he was flapping noisily, and Haunter looked worse for wear, hovering low with a pained expression. This battle was probably going to end soon. It would be risky to use such a new and unpracticed move, but she needed a decisive blow. “Rén, do that Zen Headbutt attack again!”

“Haunter, meet it with Thunder Punch!” Morty roared.

Haunter charged electricity in its fist, and Rén focused his psychic energy to a single point on his forehead before diving with a screech.

The two collided in a shower of sparks of electricity and psychic power, and both collapsed. Tripitaka held her breath, her eyes watering but she didn’t know why. Haunter opened its eyes, supporting itself with one hand to just barely prop itself off the floor and Rén strained to lift his head to glare at Haunter, entire body shaking, before he collapsed.

Tripitaka’s heart dropped, tears spilling from her eyes, her stomach icing over.

“Hoothoot is unable to battle. Haunter wins,” the referee called. Haunter grinned before slumping, now also unconscious. “Which means the victory goes to Gym Leader Morty.”

Tripitaka was stricken, numbly registering the words, vaguely remembering to recall Rén and stiffly walk away. Out of the corner of her eye she could see Monkey vaulting over from the stands to run up to her, pulling her into a hug which she shoved off.

“We’ll find another way, little monk. We’re going to think of something and it’s going to be okay. Honestly it was a great battle, a couple of mistakes here and there but…” Tripitaka allowed him to prattle on about strategy that she didn’t hear, shuffling her stony feet towards the Pokémon Center. This had been her only shot and she’d blown it. She’d lost.

Before she knew it the nurse was handing her Pokéballs back to her and bowing politely. Tripitaka nodded and forced out a thank you and wiped her puffy red eyes on her sleeve. It was just now that she realized Monkey had been chattering to her the entire time about their battle and other potential options he just thought of and was only now silent. Upon exiting the Pokémon Center, Tripitaka stopped short at the man in front of them, causing Monkey to bump into her.

It was Morty.

He smiled. “I believe you forgot something at the gym,” he said.

For a second Tripitaka had a horrified thought that she’d somehow forgotten Sage’s Pokéball before remembering it was in her hand.

“By my right as a Gym Leader, I am pleased to present you with this,” Morty said as he took her free hand and pressed something cold and metallic into it. The Fog Badge. She gave Morty a bewildered look.

“But… I didn’t win?” she asked as Monkey elbowed her sharply and muttered to shut up and just take it. She elbowed him back. “I don’t understand? I- I failed?”

He smiled. “It’s our failures that are our greatest teachers. You have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of from that battle. As long as you learned something from it, I’m proud to bestow this badge to you.”

Monkey frowned and Tripitaka squinted at Morty, completely lost. “I’m sorry, I have no idea what I should’ve learned from all that.”

“Battle better…?” Monkey mused and Morty let out a snort.

“That’s because, Tripitaka, you didn’t fail here today.” He paused. “I’ve been Ecruteak’s gym leader for quite a long time, and in that time I’ve learned there is so much more to Pokémon battles than mere winning and losing. Battles reveal so much about people; more than their strength or skill. Today in our battle, I learned that you are not only a promising trainer, but most importantly a kind and compassionate one. You recalled Eevee when others would’ve had it go on till the bitter end. It probably could’ve gone longer, but you gave up an advantage to spare it pain despite your desperation to win. That compassion is what won you this badge.”

“I mean that’s all well and good, but I thought League rules state you have to actually defeat the Gym Leader in order to obtain the badge,” Monkey said, snatching the badge and flipping it like a coin. Tripitaka grabbed it out of the air, giving him a stern look.

Morty watched them in amusement. “If you’d actually read the fine print of that policy, Monkey, badge distribution is ultimately at my discretion. Besides,” he said, looking down at Tripitaka with a half grin, “If you’d had just a little more time to prepare, you would’ve had me for sure. And I’m getting the feeling that time isn’t on your side. You just want to go to Olivine and hop on a boat, right?”

“That’s right. This whole battling thing isn’t really for me,” Tripitaka admitted.

“Then I see no reason to keep you waiting,” Morty replied. “May I escort you to the edge of my city?”

“You may,” Tripitaka said with a smile before stopping. “Hang on; I’ll catch up to you two…” She released all three of her freshly-healed Pokémon, kneeling before them and silencing their questioning cries by holding up the badge. “We got it. We’re going to Olivine now.” Sage squealed and leaped into Tripitaka’s arms.

[How did we do?] Echo asked as Sage sniffed the badge, wagging her tail and bouncing down from Tripitaka’s arms. Rén looked suspiciously up at Morty as he and Monkey walked away, shuffling his feet and glancing back into the Pokémon Center. Tripitaka gestured for them all to follow.

“You all did fantastic,” she informed them all. Sage chattered happily at Rén and Echo. “Yeah, Echo and Gastly tied at the end but it was a great effort, Sage beat Misdreavus, and Rén…”

He cut her off with a curt hoot. “I lost.”

She stopped. “Well yes, Rén technically fainted before Haunter did, but it was really close. Morty said our performance was good enough and if we’d had just a little more time we would’ve easily beaten him and he gave us the badge anyway. So Rén, don’t feel bad, you fought really well-”

[Tripitaka?]

“What?” she asked, glancing at Echo. Rén was standing beside him, cocking his head.

Even Sage was still, although she looked wide-eyed. “Vuiii –understand-?” Rén eyed her.

“I… didn’t understand all of it?”

[You understood some of it,] Echo interrupted, grabbing at her arm. [You know what this means, right?]

“That I can be taught?” she joked weakly.

[Nope. That means I’m done translating for you!] Echo floated higher with a grin. [You’ll learn faster that way.]

Sage squealed and butted her head against Tripitaka’s arm.

“I guess things are working out after all,” Tripitaka breathed, letting Echo swing her hand around and petting Sage with the other. Rén kept staring at her, expression inscrutable. “I guess we should get going, then. We’re one step closer.”

Here and now
Under the banner of heaven
We dream out loud
Do or die and the story goes on
Time is running got to go
Fate is coming that I know
Let it go

Chapter Text

Developing her sense of Pokéspeech was both the easiest and most difficult thing Tripitaka had ever done.

As much as it pained her to say it, Monkey was entirely correct about it not being like learning any other language; it was a feeling. Sort of like when she had to cross and unfocus her eyes to see a clear picture on those magic paper things, only with her mind. Every time she tried to make logical sense of it, her understanding of the various grunts and squeaks vanished. She had to actively monitor the way her own mind was accepting the information, but still not think about it, like when she was absent-mindedly waving off a fly or taking a deep breath. Despite the difficulty and the actual headache it gave her, Monkey commented she was making progress already. Even Morty had been impressed, as she managed to parse a few of Sage’s noises on her own as they reached the city’s western gates.

“You claim to be a novice but even I have difficulty understanding my Gengar’s exact words,” he mused.

“I guess I have a knack for languages,” Tripitaka said, rubbing the back of her head.

Morty nodded. “I have no doubt. But as you might have realized, Pokéspeech is not the same as human speech. Do you know why?”

Well, there was the obvious that the overwhelming majority of Pokémon lacked the ability to form the diverse sounds and phonemes that human speech required, but she could guess that wasn’t the reason Morty was looking for so she shook her head.

“It is theorized that humans learned how to communicate with Pokémon through a form of telepathy,” Morty continued.

Tripitaka frowned. That… was a fringe theory at best.

Morty saw her expression, and his warm smile widened. “I know what you’re thinking. But I believe all humans have a latent level of psychic powers, not just the rare gifted people that make headlines. It’s what lets us sense each other’s feelings, follow an intuition…”

Tripitaka glanced over her shoulder and noticed Gengar was grinning and watching her.

“Or know when we’re being watched,” Morty finished.

Tripitaka shook her head. “That’s just because we’re social creatures and are prey animals.”

“Perhaps so,” Morty said with a nod. “However you don’t deny humans with exceptional psychic powers.”

“Why are you telling me this?” Tripitaka asked.

“Well, I was getting to the point that comprehending Pokéspeech is on the same coin as mediums that can see ghosts, trainers who can levitate their Pokéballs or bend spoons…” Tripitaka watched Echo levitate around looking worried as Monkey kept pitching an overjoyed Sage into the air. “Or myself, who can see brief glimpses into the future.”

Oh right. Morty had a moniker of being a mystic seer, although he didn’t advertise it much. “So did you see my future?” she asked politely.

“Vaguely, during our battle. You have an arduous road ahead.”

“Great. It’s been arduous enough,” Tripitaka interrupted under her breath.

“Perhaps so,” Morty agreed. He paused at the city’s gates and turned to face her head on. “You are a whip-smart trainer with perhaps even more potential than you realize. But I suggest you trust your instincts more than your logic. Your heart knows sometimes more than your mind.”

Tripitaka didn’t think that was the best advice she’d ever been given in her life, but Morty and Monkey had a point when it came to understanding Pokéspeech. Maybe that was what Morty was getting at in his typical cryptic way. 

“So you seem to be on pretty friendly terms with Morty,” Tripitaka commented to Monkey once the gym leader had taken his leave.

“I mean, I guess,” Monkey said after a pause, watching Echo float next to Infernape, who was walking nearby. “He was the second gym leader I defeated. Whitney’s predecessor was my first gym and then they retired not too long after, and I went to Ecruteak next.”

“Right, you said Infernape was still a Monferno back then,” Tripitaka replied. “But there’s got to be hundreds of challengers every year, much less, what, eight or nine, you said?”

Monkey nodded, “Yeah, nine years ago.” At her persistent look, he shrugged, scratching the back of his neck. “I guess I was pretty memorable. We talk every so often.”

Now Tripitaka knew for a fact there was something else going on. Gym leaders rarely, if ever, gave out their contact information to trainers. Add on he just said that he battled Whitney’s predecessor, not Whitney herself, but still seemed to know enough about her personality to counsel Tripitaka for her battle. Maybe it was because he was a dedicated trainer and she was not.

He noticed her silence. “Why is this important to you?”

If she was honest, she wasn’t entirely sure. She just had a feeling he wasn’t disclosing everything about himself, which of course was his right, but it also felt like she was missing something obvious. So instead she shook her head. “You just… seem to know a lot of people.”

He let out a huff, but was smiling. “I’ve traveled everywhere and met tons of people. It’s part of the charm of being a trainer.” He gave her a coy look. “Are you regretting the shut-in nerd lifestyle now?”

“I wasn’t a shut-in!” Tripitaka protested.

Monkey gave her a look. “Where have you gone other than the New Bark lab and Sprout Tower and visiting that little shit of a cousin of yours?”

“I’ve gone with Troy on errand runs and some community events,” she insisted. Monkey’s eyebrows went higher, his silence irking her. “I liked studying and reading. Traveling just never appealed to me. I liked learning with the monks and working with Professor Elm.”

“You learn a lot more on the road than in books,” Monkey snorted.

Tripitaka rolled her eyes. Sometimes it was a small wonder Monkey could even read at all. Although he had a point; she’d learned quite a bit on her journey that she probably wouldn’t have if she’d stayed home. In the past, Troy had floated the idea of her going on her own journey like other kids her age, but never pushed her when she insisted she was happy where she was. Now she was wondering how different her life would have been had she gone on a journey and experienced the world like Monkey had.

Maybe she would’ve met more researchers and formed connections like Monkey had with Morty or whoever else he had along his travels and she wouldn’t have had to endure this trial today.

Monkey appeared to have had the same idea as her. “I wonder what starter Pokémon you would’ve had if you set out early like I did. Probably a Bellsprout since you’re from Sprout Tower, no?” He shook his head. “Ugly little things.” Tripitaka let out an offended gasp and Infernape muttered something, to which Monkey waved him off. “It’s not speciesist if it’s true.”

“Bellsprout are graceful, beautiful creatures in their own way,” Tripitaka snapped, feeling indignant on behalf of the familiar creatures despite having no desire to travel with one. “Besides,” she added in a grumble, “The tower is named for the way it moves and the monks developed their style of martial arts from the Bellsprout they trained with.”

“Yeah, fat lot of good that form of martial art would be,” he said, waving her off. “All it takes is one belch from any fire type and they’re cooked.” Infernape rolled his eyes but didn’t contradict him.

“The Bellsprout on the lower levels are for public demonstrations and training opportunities for novice trainers,” Tripitaka hissed. “If you go up the tower the battles get a lot more intense, which is why the building shakes. There are Bellsprout there that can go head to head with very powerful Pokemon.”

“Oh? And have you seen these Bellsprout titans?” Monkey snorted. “You said yourself you never took the monk vows. Did your monk friends allow you up to the upper levels in their special fight club?”

Tripitaka grit her teeth and said nothing. As usual Monkey seemed to know exactly how to get under her skin, even when he wasn’t aware of it. “For the record, Bellsprout probably think you’re ugly by their standards.”

Monkey’s jaw dropped and he jabbed an accusatory finger in her face that she smacked away. “I take offense to that. I’ve been told everywhere I go I’m a very attractive man. Infernape, tell me I’m pretty.” Infernape grunted a reply with a deadpan expression as Monkey beamed, basking in the sun and flipping his hair before looking down at Tripitaka. “He said if we were not in polite company he’d ravish me right here and now.”

“Ri-ight,” Tripitaka said, drawing out the word. Infernape cackled, baring his fangs.

A pair of older trainers rounded a bend in the road up ahead, and Infernape ducked into the brush nearby. Echo tailed him, head cocked.

“Does Infernape not like other people?” Tripitaka asked.

“He’s just bashful,” Monkey replied. Tripitaka recalled he was using the exact bright tone he had when Echo had demanded to know why Monkey was so dodgy around other people. She decided to let it drop. Infernape returned to the road when the trainers had long passed, and Echo kept hovering nearby, peppering him with constant questions that the primate ignored. Infernape soon started showing off his Fire Punch technique in a blur of fists and flame, Echo watching with rapt awe. Eventually Infernape slowed down and Echo copied the motions, Infernape pausing to correct his clumsy technique.

“Never known an Abra to be interested in punching things,” Monkey chortled.

“Well he did pay close attention when we told him about Rén’s battle with Haunter,” Tripitaka replied. “Maybe he wants to expand his options in battle like Haunter does.”

Monkey shrugged. “Not much good it’ll do, but if it makes him happy he can go for it.” Despite his flippant tone, Monkey seemed amused at Infernape taking pride in showing Echo his techniques. Sage darted up.

“Person close,” she said amidst other quick squeaks Tripitaka didn’t catch. After taking a split second too long to try and parse what Sage was actually saying, Monkey piped up.

“There’s a trainer up ahead who Sage wants to battle.”

Tripitaka shot him an annoyed look. “I would’ve gotten that eventually.”

He ducked his head and Sage looked at him with a rare disappointed face. “Sorry. Force of habit.”

“I’m sorry it takes me three to five business days to process what they’re saying; I’m learning,” Tripitaka snapped at him.

Sage put her paws on Tripitaka’s shins and repeated her sentence slower, this time Tripitaka catching the context that the person was a trainer and the indicator of Sage’s desire to challenge them.

“Yes, we can go ask them, Sage.”

Her expression brightened, and Tripitaka heard the sound of Echo teleporting next to her.

“We’re going to battle?” His paws clenched in anticipation.

“If you want and they’re willing, sure,” Tripitaka replied, pleased she responded quicker. She glanced around the skies for Rén, wondering if he had heard and wanted to participate.

The trainer in question was a young teen twirling her pigtails around watching a Snubbull wearing a red starred bandana around its neck run around the bus stop they were waiting at. Tripitaka, suddenly shy, hesitated to step forward and ask for a battle. Monkey shoved her and jutted his chin at the girl and she gave him an annoyed look.

“Hi, um, are you busy?” she asked, looking at the girl’s belt and noticing the minimized Pokéballs on it, relieved that Sage was right in that she was an actual trainer.

The girl made a show of looking around, her Snubbull trotting to her side, tongue just barely peeking out from its mouth. “Just waiting for the bus. Did you want a battle?”

“If it’s not too much trouble,” Tripitaka replied, heart thumping. She didn’t remember being this nervous battling that boy in the Underground, but then again, this time she had a bigger team and an audience that tended to react unpredictably to things.

“Okay, but we can’t go all out because I’m going to be on the bus for a while,” the girl said. “I’m Kylie, and this is Stella.” Stella the Snubbull sprang forward with a bark, ears slapping her face as she shook her head in anticipation. “Let’s just do a one-on-one touch battle. No special moves.”

“Boring,” Monkey grumbled under his breath. Tripitaka elbowed him, relieved at the lower stakes. Touch battles were more about dodging and speed opposed to strategy all-out battles often required, something Sage was proving to be quite adept at.

Echo ventured forward, but Tripitaka reached out and grabbed his paw. “No, Sage found her. It’s her battle.”

Echo’s ears twitched and he nodded, but was looking antsy, muttering something under his breath. After a moment to think about it and then remind herself to not think about it, her brain got the gist of what he was saying.

“You’ll be next for sure, Echo.”

Sage pranced out to meet Stella and dipped into a bow to await a command, tail wagging. Stella also leaned forward, bandana fluttering in the breeze. The pink bulldog tried to growl to look intimidating, but Sage didn’t seem bothered, tail wagging harder.

“Sage, Swift! I mean, Tackle!” Tripitaka ordered, embarrassed she’d already forgotten the rules they’d just established. “Don’t get hit!”

Kylie just snickered. “Stella, be wary and then Bite!”

In reality, touch battles didn’t require much guidance from trainers; the Pokémon had the sense to dodge on their own unless they needed directional assistance. Tripitaka watched as Sage enthusiastically darted through the grass, trying to get behind Stella to land a blow. Stella was, to Tripitaka’s surprise, keeping up with Sage, her agility belying her stubby legs, zigging when Sage zagged and twisting when Sage turned. It would appear that Stella was either naturally gifted or Kylie had trained her Pokémon to be particularly speedy.

Either way, eventually Sage looked like she was tiring, her dodges getting sloppier and her tongue lolling out of her not as upturned mouth. Stella didn’t look any worse for wear, if anything, she was still going strong. Tripitaka was about to call out that Sage should withdraw, but Monkey cupped his hands to his mouth.

“Faster, Sage! You can do it!”

Tripitaka looked at him like he was insane, clearly yelling at her to just try harder wasn’t going to change anything, but noted he was watching Sage intently. Tripitaka followed his gaze. Sage had indeed kicked it into high gear, legs almost blurring on the ground.

Tripitaka blinked.

They were blurring. In fact, Sage’s entire outline was hazy and unfocused, dashing around the entire clearing and gaining even more speed.

“Is that…” Tripitaka glanced up at Monkey, who was grinning down at her.

“Go on, call it!” he said, eyes shining. “Tell it to her!”

Tripitaka turned back to the little fox shape. “Sage, use Quick Attack!”

With a final cry, the brown blur accelerated until it completely zipped behind Stella and tackled the Snubbull to the ground, the two tumbling away from each other.

Kylie jogged to meet them and check up on Stella, who shook herself and licked her trainer’s cheek. Tripitaka caught Sage in her arms and twirled her around to celebrate, and heard some light clapping behind her. Kylie beamed at Sage.

“I love it when Pokémon learn new moves. That was fun!” she exclaimed. Stella barked, stubby tail wagging. Sage wriggled out of Tripitaka’s hug and licked Stella’s cheek, who patted her back.

A bus emblazoned with a sprinting Boltund logo rolled up and hissed to a stop, and Kylie bid them all a good luck and a farewell as she and Stella boarded. Tripitaka had to smile, waving to Kylie as the bus pulled away. She got the feeling she was finally starting to actually understand Pokémon training culture. The fleeting meetings and partings that built friendships, however temporary, that benefited the trainers and the Pokémon, all in good fun. Maybe it didn’t all have to be scary battles and praying her Pokémon didn’t maim the other one.

“Well that was great,” Monkey said, lightly shoving Tripitaka’s shoulder. “You actually followed through on a battle!”

“Yeah, Sage did great,” Tripitaka replied, bending down to rub a cooing Sage’s ears. She glanced up at Monkey. “How did you know Sage was going to learn Quick Attack?”

He shrugged. “I figured it was about that time. Some Eevees learn it sooner, but Sage prefers special attacks anyway so I assumed it would come along when she was ready. A battle about sprinting around just happened to bring it out.”

Tripitaka smiled to herself. He really did know his stuff. He also was a lot more skilled at training than she ever would be. She did have to wonder how her team would fare if Monkey was the one that had caught him and were under his stewardship. She frowned at the thought and shook it off. “Well, shall we keep going?”

“Me next,” Echo rasped. He hovered next to Tripitaka’s face and said something in a fast, insistent tone that she didn’t quite catch. Sage’s ears lowered and she went still, tail no longer wagging. Tripitaka frowned at her reaction, holding the little fox tighter.

Monkey rolled his eyes. “Obviously you would’ve won a touch battle with your teleporting, but it wasn’t about you; it was Sage’s battle, you little shit. Now get a move on and go find something to battle instead of just talking about it.”

Tripitaka put a warning hand on Monkey’s arm and gave Echo a meaningful look. “I know you’re eager to evolve, but I can’t use you for every single battle, Echo. That wouldn’t be fair to Sage. Or Rén,” she added, looking around for the owl out of habit. She was surprised to see he was perched on the roof of the bus stop looking down at them, blinking one eye at her and saying nothing. She glanced back at Echo and nodded to him. “Go find another Pokémon to spar against; we’ll watch.”

Echo looked a little crestfallen before disappearing. Tripitaka was about to comment something to Monkey about perhaps treating her Pokémon with a little more kindness before Echo reappeared and called to get her attention further down the path. Upon catching up to him, he pointed out a wild duck that was poking through the grass near the road, carrying a leek in its bill. Tripitaka nodded to him and Monkey folded his arms to watch.

Echo did a happy flip and raced towards the duck, charging electricity in his paws. The Farfetch’d squawked at his approach and assumed a battle stance with a swing of its leek, but before Echo could loose his attack, a brown streak crashed into the wild duck with a muffled thump. Tripitaka jumped in surprise as Rén pinned the Farfetch’d down and forced the bird’s head with his talons to look directly into his scowling eyes, now glowing a sinister red. Farfetch’d’s body went slack and its eyes drooped into an unnatural slumber.

Rén hopped off, looking at a scandalized Echo with a challenging look before turning his gaze to Tripitaka.

“Let’s go.”

With that brusque hoot, he soundlessly took off again. Echo hissed back at him and teleported in the air behind him, charging another Shock Wave.

“Echo, cut that out!” Tripitaka scolded. “We’re not fighting each other!”

She shot a quick glance at the Farfetch’d, who was now happily snoozing away tucked under the tree. The Hypnosis would wear off soon, so it would be just fine in a few moments. Her gaze returned to Echo and Rén.

The Hoothoot dove under the Abra and struck him with his wing, the Shock Wave fizzling out before it could be launched. Echo growled and started teleporting all around Rén in rapid succession, slapping his tail into Rén and charging tiny sparks to smack Rén’s face with curled paws. Rén dove, weaving through the trees lining the path with expert precision and evading Echo’s strikes that were probably no more than a nuisance to the owl.

Tripitaka sighed, fiddling with Echo’s Pokéball. The last time this happened she had decided to just let it play out, since Rén would hold a grudge until it was resolved. Rén didn’t appear furious like before; in fact he seemed eerily calm as he nimbly swooped and spun around an increasingly frustrated Echo. As much as she disliked the discord, she couldn’t help but call out to Echo, knowing Rén was more than capable of handling himself.

“Teleport where he’s going to be, not where he is right now. You need to be more predictive if you’re going to get a proper strike in.”

At first nothing changed as Echo continued to frenetically blip around Rén, but finally he slowed down and teleported after a moment’s thought, reappearing directly on Rén’s back and clutching the base of his wings, sparks lighting up his golden fur.

Rén reacted by twisting his head and jabbing his beak into Echo’s paws until his wings were released with a yelp. In one swift motion Rén rolled midair and seized Echo in his talons, charging another Shadow Ball in his beak and diving. The ghost type move burst into Echo’s face, forcing him to the ground with a thud as Rén swooped up, banking to a stop nearby to land and preen his wings as if nothing had happened at all.

Sage rushed to the heap on the ground that was Echo and touched her nose to his cheek before continuing on to Rén, tail wagging. Tripitaka’s jaw fell as she chattered to the huge owl and Rén didn’t immediately lash out at her to back off. In fact he stopped his preening to blink once at her before dismissing her with a shake of his head and going back to running his beak through his tail feathers. Sage wisely let him be and instead sat herself a few of Rén’s wingspans away and washed her face.

Had Rén interfered to stand up for Sage?

Echo slowly rose, rubbing his head.

“Echo? Are you-?” Tripitaka asked him, reaching out, but he waved her off and carefully picked his way over to Sage, tail undulating. Rén’s head spun to stare at him, and Echo glanced away, offering a paw to Sage who nuzzled him, tail wagging once again.

“I think the pecking order just got reinforced,” Monkey noted. He glanced at her. “This is some good material for your report thing, right?”

“It really is,” Tripitaka said. She was so enraptured by the interaction of her team that she’d entirely forgotten to record it all. Hopefully she could get the details right when she typed it all up later. Professor Ginkgo might also want to hear about Sage learning Quick Attack and how a specific type of battle was probably the thing that brought it out of her.

“Hey.” Monkey nudged her. “Pecking order. Laugh at my joke.”

“Ha ha ha,” Tripitaka carefully pronounced. “Very clever.”

Monkey dramatically rolled his eyes as they began walking again. He cleared his throat.

“One time I dreamed I was being chased by a giant Kingler wearing pants.”

Tripitaka’s brow furrowed at his sudden change of topic and at the imagery. “…Like a pair of pants on each individual leg or like two legs were in one set of pants?”

“Somehow the first. My brain said it was wearing pants.”

“That’s not pants, that’s like… a sock. For the entire leg,” Tripitaka said, puzzled.

“Tell my brain that,” Monkey scoffed. He rubbed his arm and kept his gaze fixed straight ahead. “So… do you have dreams like that?”

“Not really.”

“Oh.”

In truth, Tripitaka didn’t dream much at all. Obviously she was dreaming every night; all humans did, she just didn’t remember. Usually they were just a recap of her day or doing a task with the details slightly altered. The other, much rarer dreams were extremely realistic scenarios that usually left her with a headache in the morning.

“Speaking of dreams…” Monkey ventured. “Do you… have other dreams?”

Tripitaka was about to ask why he was being weird about a silly topic when she squinted. “What did Echo teleport with?”

“He was holding something?” Monkey replied, following her gaze with raised eyebrows.

Tripitaka jogged forward, and sure enough, Echo reappeared above the tree line and dropped something from his arms, giggling. Sage tracked it, firing a Shadow Ball at the falling object and squealing in delight when it struck. Tripitaka watched the poor Spinarak careen through the air, all of its legs extended to uselessly grasp at nothing. Echo teleported and snagged the spider before it could hit the ground and repeated the process, Sage taking aim again.

“Echo!” she scolded. “Put it down! Gently!”

Sage’s Shadow Ball instantly fizzled out at her tone, ears flattening. The golden fox let out a nervous giggle and the Spinarak squirmed in his grasp until Echo lowered them both to the ground and the spider scuttled off into the undergrowth as fast as its many legs could carry it. Tripitaka shot Echo an annoyed glance, but her face softened when she detected that he was a bit proud of himself underneath the nervousness of being caught. Sage shuffled her paws, eyes flicking between the ground and her partner in crime.

“Was that your first time teleporting something?” she asked after a deep breath.

Echo fidgeted before he nodded. “Figured out.”

“You figured it out?” Tripitaka clarified. At his nod again, she sighed. It was a milestone on Abra growth to learn how to teleport other objects, but this opened up an entire world of potential mischief she was sure Echo would take complete advantage of. “I’m proud of you. But can we please not use those powers for evil in the future? You can battle wild Pokémon; not torment them. Okay?”

Echo nodded, trying to hide a smile. Tripitaka glanced at Sage, who looked up with hope in her adorable soft eyes. It’s like she knew her puppy eyes would get her out of trouble every time.

Unfortunately she was correct.

“And Sage, same goes for you. But that Shadow Ball was impressive. You have great aim,” she conceded. “Now you two go stay out of trouble. Make good choices.”

Monkey strode up to Tripitaka. “That was nicely handled. Very monk-like.”

“What can I say? I’ve picked up on a few things,” Tripitaka replied, realizing it hadn’t felt forced at all. For once she didn’t feel like she was trying to channel Troy; she had handled it naturally and on her own. The thought made her smile.

“Sage is way too easily corruptible,” Monkey went on. “Echo knows it.”

“Yeah, I’ll have to watch out for that,” Tripitaka sighed. “She’s too sweet.”

“She learned it by watching you,” Monkey cajoled, elbowing her. “I don’t think that she’s too sweet; she just needs some more experience in the world. She’s the right amount of sweet.”

“Thanks… I think,” Tripitaka laughed as the road stretched on before them.

I just wanna be somebody to someone, oh
I wanna be somebody to someone, oh
I never had nobody and no road home
I wanna be somebody to someone

Chapter Text

As they walked, Tripitaka’s legs made her keenly aware of how much walking they’ve been doing the past few days. “Are we near a rest stop soon?”

Monkey checked his phone. “Yeah, Moomoo Farm is about another fifteen minutes out. They’ve got a longhouse for trainers on their way to Olivine. I haven’t been back since they added the longhouse in, so that’ll be cool.”

The Moomoo Farm was something Tripitaka had wanted to see since she was a little kid but had never gotten to go. Something had always come up or it had been closed every time they visited the monastery in Ecruteak. She checked her phone. They might be able to stay a bit longer in the morning if the few hours of daylight left weren’t enough to see everything the farm had to offer. They were right on schedule.

Before long the faint smell of the farm wafted through the trees, and then they could see the rolling hills of pasture the Miltank and Tauros were grazing on. Trainers were allowed to have their Pokémon run around freely, provided they didn’t engage any of the livestock. The ranch’s multiple Arcanine and Growlithe guardians ensured the herd’s safety, if the cantankerous Tauros weren’t enough of a deterrence.

Sage took off with an excited yip, and Tripitaka watched her go, smiling as she zipped under a fence line and began greeting every single Mareep in the pen, snuggling up to one and having her fur stand on end from the static electricity they produced. Tripitaka was surprised there were a couple of Wooloo and Dubwool scattered amongst the flock; they weren’t a common sight around Johto. Realizing this was more material she could use for her report, she took as many pictures as she could.

“So… Ever see yourself as a farmer?” Monkey asked as they continued further into the farm, glancing at her.

Tripitaka smiled as she rubbed behind a Miltank’s ear that had wandered close to the fence line to investigate them. When they weren’t caving in skulls, they were quite cute. This one in particular had eyes that were much softer and calmer than Whitney’s murder cow that was stationed in the Goldenrod Gym. She thought about that Miltank’s haunting bellow of victory and shuddered, hand withdrawing and continuing on.

“Not really. But I do appreciate how everyone works together and the Pokémon are all in harmony,” Tripitaka replied, reading a sign. “Oh look, they imported Alolan Muk and Grimer to get rid of all the waste they can’t sell as fertilizer.” Her face brightened. “And look, there’s some Koffing and Weezing floating around to consume the methane to reduce their carbon footprint!”

“They should import some Galarian Weezing to get rid of the smell entirely,” Monkey mused. “I’ll put that in the suggestion box if they have one.”

Tripitaka watched as Sage carefully picked her way around an Arcanine lounging in the grass to go dip into a bow to the much smaller Growlithe nearby.

“Sage, don’t distract them; they’re working,” she called, watching as Sage tried to entice the other puppy into playing. The Growlithe looked tempted, trying very hard to ignore her, but its fluffy tail wagging a mile a minute gave it away.

“Want me to go get her?” Echo asked, probably itching to practice teleporting again.

She shook her head. “Just… keep an eye on her.” She was about to call out to Sage again, but the Arcanine uttered a low woof without opening its eyes. The Eevee instantly backed off, but now she was mirroring the now businesslike Growlithe’s posture as it scanned the horizon for threats. Tripitaka thought it was a funny image of Echo teleporting right next to the Arcanine and then snuggling under its giant fluffed tail, completely obscuring him. The Arcanine didn’t appear to notice or care. Near the center of the farm were a few things for kids to enjoy like a hay ride and games, as well as a small market to show off the farm’s produce and honey, courtesy of the local Beedrill.

“I think Beedrill honey is way tangier than Combee’s,” Monkey mused as they tried some samples.

“Is that because this honey is from citrus blossoms?” Tripitaka wondered, reading the label on a jar.

“No, it’s the inherent danger of Beedrill farming and their poison typing that gives it that extra kick,” the shopkeeper piped up. “We recruit the Koffing and Weezing to help us smoke the hives to keep everybody calm. If there’s an oopsie, they’re completely immune to the stings and have really tough hides to boot. The keepers have to wear a special suit of armor.”

Monkey and Tripitaka exchanged an uneasy glance exiting the shop, honey sticks in hand, and continued browsing the stalls. Echo appeared beside them, hugging Sage in his arms. Tripitaka wasn’t as startled as she usually was when he blipped into existence right next to her; she was getting used to the subtle sound it made. Sage shook her head, ears slapping the sides of her head, but she didn’t appear to have suffered by being teleported. Tripitaka had a feeling Echo was going to teleport her somewhere sometime soon and she wasn’t looking forward to it; she heard it could be a strange sensation.

The longhouse was a plain building made from logs, simple bunk beds lining the walls with some space heaters and tables in the center walkway, a singular video call booth near the back. Several bunks had been claimed already, with several Pokémon and trainers milling around waiting for dinner. One trainer was sound asleep in his bunk, arm over his eyes. Tripitaka squinted at the bedpost closer to her. It was far thicker than usual. She chuckled to herself when she realized it was a camouflaged Sudowoodo standing guard over its napping trainer. Tripitaka caught its eye and its cheerful smile widened.

“You a top or a bottom?” Monkey asked.

Tripitaka choked. “Excuse me?”

“Top bunk or bottom?”

“I’m fine with whatever,” she replied after a pause, hoping he hadn’t noticed her flushed cheeks. Monkey shrugged and tossed his bag on top and then flopped down on her mattress and stretched out, much to her annoyance. Mentally she compared him to a fungus, spreading out and claiming everything around him.

He glanced up at her and nodded to the one video call booth with a small line behind it. “You probably have time to go call your dad before dinner.”

Rén waited in the rafters above Tripitaka until the line dwindled in front of her and grew behind her. She probably had to make this call quick so she wouldn’t anger anyone. When it was her turn Rén alit on the desk, thankfully understanding he wasn’t going to get individual time with Troy today. The owl ignored her as she dialed the number and waited, his orange eyes focused entirely on the loading screen.

Troy blinked into view, and his face brightened, although his eyes held a bit of tiredness in them.

“Good evening, you two!” he said, voice light.

“Hi Troy,” Tripitaka greeted. Rén uttered a brief hoot. “You look like you’ve had a long day…”

He shook his head. “The day is as long as it always is, my dear. But today I had a rather long series of battles.” Tripitaka saw that Rén’s body slumped ever so slightly, and Troy noticed as well. “Zhi has been a steadfast companion through this time; however I do miss your company, my friend.”

Tripitaka smiled. The calm Bellsprout had been a much more recent partnership than Rén, having been caught when she was a tween, but had taken to the ways of Sprout Tower far easier than the cranky owl. She could see why Troy had kept Zhi, who had no wanderlust like Rén did.

“He’s not as strong as me,” Rén hooted, grouchy.

“At least Zhi gives little kids a chance to win,” Tripitaka snorted.

“And you would be too scared to challenge said kids,” Rén commented, nibbling at his shoulder.

Troy’s eyebrows flew up into his forehead. “You understand Rén? You’ve figured out Pokéspeech?”

Rén huffed a few things under his breath that Tripitaka didn’t catch. “It… comes and goes,” she replied lamely.

“Don’t force it,” Troy advised. “Just let it flow. It takes time to learn,” he said, emphasizing to Rén. “I’m very proud of you.”

“I also got Morty’s badge!” Tripitaka exclaimed, fishing it out of her bag. “I can get on the ferry now!”

“That is wonderful, Tripitaka!” Troy praised. “Things seem to be finally turning around for you.”

Tripitaka rubbed the back of her head. “I wouldn’t call it too early, Troy.” She glanced over her shoulder at the line, and noticed Troy stifling a yawn. “I’ll email you the gym battle recap soon,” she promised. After bidding him a good night, she exited the booth, finding Monkey watching videos on his phone with Sage in his lap.

“It’s not a life hack if it’s just a fact,” Monkey groused, glowering at the screen. “Everyone knows Exeggcute evolves with a leaf stone.” He glanced up at Tripitaka. “Life hack: Eevee can use any evolutionary stone to evolve. You see how stupid that is?”

“You don’t need to convince me,” Tripitaka retorted. Although she would admit, she ended up watching those dumb videos for cheap views every so often just to get her mind off of studying. Some of their tips were actually useful, although she hadn’t found a use for them yet on her journey.

A bell started ringing. “Ready for dinner?” Tripitaka asked.

Monkey sprang up in one motion, Sage in hand. “I was born ready, nerd.”

Sudowoodo’s trainer sat up with a yawn, recalling the Pokémon with a mumbled ‘thanks, bud,’ and followed them outside where a buffet awaited the trainers where they paid a flat fee to cover themselves and their Pokémon. Monkey stuffed his face with cornbread and barbecue in addition to setting aside a bunch of food for Infernape, who he promised would eat later. Sage and Echo sat nearby conversing with some other small Pokémon around a tray of fruit and greens and a bowl of Miltank milk on the side, and Rén had long since vanished to go hunt for himself. Tripitaka watched a boy hold his plate up to a Houndoom lying behind him, who gave it a thorough sniff and nodded to the boy who went back to eating. She noticed it had a vest that identified the hellhound as a service Pokémon and to not challenge or engage. Monkey dumped his okra and grits onto her plate when she wasn’t looking.

“You know, if you didn’t want any, you didn’t have to take them,” she sighed.

“Well I saw you looking at them longingly in line and figured you’d be too shy to go back up for more,” Monkey mumbled, crumbs flicking out of his mouth as he spoke. “You can always ask me to go back up.”

Tripitaka was surprised he’d noticed. “Th- thanks,” she managed.

“Mm-mm,” he grunted, gulping down some milk and attacking the rest of his plate like he had never seen food in his life. He may have appalling table manners but he was observant, she’d give him that.

After everyone had been fed and watered, the trainers dispersed to either go to the lodge or walk the grounds. She heard some battle commands being issued to Pokémon in an established vacant field, and instead she wanted to sit by the bonfire the farm kept lit as a recent tradition. Trainers were encouraged to help keep the fire going to form connections with others, although several just brought a fire Pokémon and had it sit amongst the embers for a while.

Tripitaka was relieved there were only a couple of trainers scattered around the fire, mostly keeping to themselves so she would have some quiet to type out her daily email; she had a lot to cover. Monkey let Infernape out once the few trainers had wandered off, although Tripitaka was sure that Infernape’s head flames would blend in with the bonfire so he wouldn’t be noticed. Echo asked to be recalled, and Rén still wasn’t back.

Monkey was silent as Tripitaka worked, fingers flying over the keys with a sleeping Sage snuggled by her side, watching Infernape eat. After a while she hit send and sighed, cracking her knuckles. Monkey shot her a glance.

“I’m surprised you were quiet this long,” she commented. “Not that it’s a bad thing.”

“Just thinking.”

The two of them watched the flames for a minute. Infernape reached in and rearranged the logs to let in more air, the fire crackling happily in response. Tripitaka was about to ask what about, but then Monkey startled her by whipping around and the red beam of a Pokéball’s recall signal zapped into the trees. The light fizzled out, nothing in tow.

Monkey huffed. “Bitch,” he muttered under his breath, shoving the empty Pokéball back in his pocket and folding his arms.

“Not every Pokémon wants to be in a Pokéball,” Tripitaka reminded him, confused. “Look at Rén.”

“Yeah, but Rén actually comes back and shows he’s okay,” Monkey snorted. Tripitaka thought she saw his eye twitch and turn watery for a second, but it might have been a trick of the flickering light.

“Maybe there’s-”

“We’ve been friends…” Monkey interrupted, “For six years!” he yelled over his shoulder into the darkness. “We love each other!”

Silence answered him as he threw a hand through his hair and glared back at the fire. Infernape glanced back into the trees before patting Monkey’s shoulder once. Tripitaka didn’t know how to respond to that. She swallowed, keeping her eyes fixed on the dancing flames.

“You never answered me earlier,” Monkey finally spoke. He glanced over to her, gaze now soft. “About your other dreams.”

At Tripitaka’s blank expression, he huffed and went on, “Like… for your future?”

Tripitaka considered. “When I was little I wanted to be a marine biologist,” she mused.

“Didn’t everybody?” Monkey replied wryly. He sobered, fiddling with his hands. “So you’ve… always wanted to be a researcher?”

“I guess so,” Tripitaka realized. “I never really knew what actually went into that sort of career, but I always wanted to learn more about the world and Pokémon. I asked Troy how to make it happen, and when he told me, I just dedicated my whole life to it. Nothing else really mattered to me. And…” she hesitated. “When I think about not being able to achieve that dream, thinking everything I did in my life was for nothing, I get scared. I don’t know any other path. I don’t really… have an identity outside of it.”

Monkey was silent. Tripitaka was keenly aware of his gaze that felt like it was boring into her skull. Her eyes started to burn, and the flames blurred. “I don’t know any other way aside from this goal. I don’t have hobbies, not really any friends… So even just the thought of me not being able to get to this internship terrifies me.” A few tears dripped onto her lap, and she scrubbed at her eyes, embarrassed she’d gotten this emotional.

After a few deep breaths, she managed to glance at Monkey for the briefest moment before she had to turn away. “And I’m sorry I took that fear out on you back in Ecruteak, Monkey. It wasn’t fair.”

His silence stretched between them, broken up by the snapping of the fire and soft Kricketune chirps. Finally Monkey shifted in his seat, watching the smoke rise to the stars.

“I wouldn’t say you don’t have an identity outside of your career goals.” His head rolled over to look at her with a small, lopsided smile.

Tripitaka’s nose crinkled and she sniffled, puzzling out his expression. It didn’t feel that way at all.

“I’ve only known you for a bit, but…” he glanced back upwards. “You’re just like Morty said. You’re a kind and compassionate trainer. You’re learning Pokéspeech when you told me you never needed to. You’re insanely smart, not to mention brave. You take great care of Sage, who adores you to the moon and back.” His eyes found hers again, his smile widening. “And you have friends. There’s Echo… Infernape really likes you. Even that damn Hoothoot is changing his opinion of you. I mean, really slowly, but-”

“No I’m not.”

Tripitaka turned to see Rén perched nearby, scratching his face with his eyes closed.

“Shut up,” Monkey ordered with no real venom to his voice. He looked back at Tripitaka, eyes brightening. “And then there’s me! That’s got to count for something.” He waited as she smiled and allowed herself a small chuckle. “That sounds to me like there’s a lot more to you than just a nerd on a mission.”

Tripitaka let his words sink in, her body warming more than from just the fire. She opened her mouth to say thanks, but Monkey interrupted.

“And I’m sorry about looking through your laptop. Infernape said-” Infernape’s death stare made the tumble of words cut off. “…I realize that wasn’t cool of me to do that,” he corrected. Infernape grunted and turned his attention back to the fire, adding a log. “And that thing back at the gym…” he ran a hand through his hair. Clearly apologies weren’t his thing. “It was my fault too. I didn’t really understand why you were freaking out even though I do understand but I wasn’t really helping? But I get it now, but…”

Tripitaka smiled and took his hand and gave it a quick, friendly squeeze to end his suffering. “I get it, Monkey.” She went back to stroking Sage’s mane, considering how nice his hand had felt in hers before shaking it off. “Friends?”

Monkey was still, and after a moment reached over for her before his arm lurched upwards to lightly pat her shoulder.

“Friends. Nerd.”

I’d like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It’s hard to say that I’d rather stay
Awake when I’m asleep
‘Cause everything is never as it seems

Chapter Text

Her phone read it was 2:28 in the morning. Sighing, Tripitaka listened to the soft snores and shuffling of the trainers and Pokémon around her, envious of their sleep. Her brain couldn’t settle down, knowing her stay in Johto was almost over. In the faint light of her screen, she watched Sage’s back rise and fall with her breaths. The little Eevee had only woken up when Tripitaka had carried her inside the longhouse to turn in a half circle on Tripitaka’s bunk before knocking out again. Clearly she had been tuckered out from all the excitement at the farm.

Monkey had also nodded off early. His nightly spam of videos and memes had been rather short this time. Tripitaka smiled. Maybe his exertion of emotional intelligence wiped him out. She had to wonder if he’d continue to send her messages after they’d parted ways; she was starting to enjoy his particular sense of humor and taste in things he chose to offer her, weird and crass as some of them were.

Her attention shifted to Rén, who was perched on the bunk post. She watched him shuffle his feathers and burrow his beak further into them, either unconsciously or he was also having trouble sleeping like she was. Her curiosity getting the better of her, she surreptitiously held up her phone and scanned the dozing Rén, noting his height and shoulder width, wishing she could properly measure his wingspan and tail feathers…. She didn’t fully trust digital measurement yet, especially in the dim light of the room. She looked up and noticed he had cracked open an eye to squint at her. He let out a brief, questioning hoot.

“Um, just wanted to get some measurements?” she whispered, feeling hot embarrassment at being caught. He slowly put his tucked foot down, head tufts flattening, clearly not amused. “It’s just that you’re unusually large for a male of your species; on average, female Hoothoot are about 20% larger than males and I’m curious if you’ll retain your above-average size when you evolve into a Noctowl since it’s reported some Pokémon just go through a growth spurt early and upon evolution become average sized while others- well, all that is IF you want to evolve, you don’t have to, but you know that already… You can… be whatever you want to be?” She felt incredibly stupid, trying to tell a Pokémon how to live his life. Normal trainers probably didn’t go through this. To be frank, Tripitaka didn't even know if she was capable of training him enough to evolve even if he wanted to… that was something normal trainers did, not her.

Rén continued to stare, judgment burning through his orange eyes and silencing her babbling. She became uncomfortably aware that her voice had gotten a bit loud at the end and held her breath. If anyone had heard, they hadn’t reacted, so she let out a slow sigh of relief.

Without another sound, Rén took off and settled up in the rafters out of sight to get away from her.

Figures.

“I’ll… just let you be, then,” she mumbled, lying back in defeat.

Despite his protest last night, she had noticed the owl’s attitude improve ever since she started picking up on Pokéspeech. Not that he was one for conversation or outright saying what he wanted from her, but she felt like she’d actually made some strides with him. But right now, any gains she might have made felt like they had been undone in a second. She rubbed a hand into her forehead, going over everything and berating herself on what she should’ve done instead. Rén was a battler. Troy’s companion. He’s not meant to be researched or measured. Got it.

Sage let out a quiet sigh and snuggled closer to her side, interrupting her thoughts. Tripitaka absently stroked her soft tawny fur. At the very least Sage was always full of grace and didn’t begrudge her presence.

---

Despite only getting a couple hours’ sleep, Tripitaka didn’t feel any of the effects one might expect as the group closed in on Olivine City. Monkey was as carefree as ever, and Sage was back at peak energy levels chasing him around on the road. Echo challenged everything on the way that gave him the time of day, and Rén didn’t interfere. In fact, Rén was barely seen at all. He probably was still holding a grudge towards her from last night. She couldn’t blame him.

[Tripitaka? How long is Monkey going to be with us?]

The question, as well as pulling her out of her thoughts, gave her pause. It must’ve been important to Echo if he was asking her directly through telepathy as opposed to using Pokéspeech. She frowned. She and Monkey were traveling in the same direction, weren’t they? But surely he had other things to do besides hanging around with a traveling not-monk. It had struck her as odd that he had stuck around for so long, but she had been getting quite accustomed to his presence, chaotic as it was.

“I… don’t know, actually,” Tripitaka replied carefully. “He’s never brought it up. I just thought that we’d get to the harbor and part ways. Monkey would have lots of places to go, right?”

[I guess.]

Was it just her imagination, or did Echo seem disappointed? “Don’t tell me he’s actually growing on you? Weren’t you all up in his business about his shady past or being a drug dealer or whatever?”

[That was before I got to know him better,] Echo insisted. [But… I think he seems to be a good person to have around.] He rubbed the back of his neck, tail swaying.

“Now I know he’s grown on you. You just referred to him as ‘good’,” Tripitaka teased.

[Infernape is just cool. That’s all,] he protested. He assumed a stance that mimicked Infernape’s. [He thinks I can turn my Shock Wave into a Thunder Punch if I practice hard enough.]

Tripitaka smiled. She wondered if Monkey’s starter was aware of the high esteem Echo held him in. “We can make that into a goal, Echo. Even if Monkey decides to move on, we can keep practicing. You’ll get it for sure.”

Echo’s tail thumped the grass. [I hope he doesn’t leave.]

After a pause, Tripitaka nodded. Monkey was the first real friend she’d ever had. There wasn’t anyone in her life quite like him, and she didn’t fancy the idea of walking in silence without him talking her ear off or swinging Sage around. “I hope he doesn’t either.”

“I hope he does,” Rén’s nearby rasp startled her. “He’s annoying.”

“Everyone annoys you,” Echo replied, ears flat. “Everyone who is not your trainer.”

“How did you know who we were talking about?” Tripitaka wondered. He had only heard one half of the conversation since Echo was speaking directly to her.

The owl shot her an exasperated look, ignoring Echo entirely. “It’s not that hard to figure out. He’s the only thing you idiots talk about.”

“Rén,” Tripitaka sighed. “That’s not true and you know it. Why are you being so difficult?”

Echo floated higher to look at Rén. “It’s because he’s starting to warm up to all of us and is mad about it. Right?”

Rén’s eyes narrowed to slits, feathers puffing out.

“I can feel you be less angry,” Echo went on, “And you get angrier when you realize it.” Tripitaka considered. Rén would be the type to get upset at himself for enjoying something that wasn’t Troy or Troy-adjacent.

Tripitaka winced as Rén’s body lowered, wings starting to spread ever so slightly to throw himself at Echo for his words that clearly had hit the mark.

“We talking about our feelings over here?” Monkey called, strutting right in between Echo and Rén, Infernape holding a curious Sage in his palm. “Why wasn’t I invited?”

“Go. Away,” Rén pronounced, his glare focusing on Monkey.

Sage hopped off of Infernape’s hand and put her front paws up on the post Rén was perched on, tilting her head and cooing questioningly, tail slowly wagging. He spread his wings and held them open at his sides as a silent threat, staring down at her and not replying. She giggled, batting a paw up at him but unable to reach.

Echo floated nearer to Tripitaka. “He knows I’m right.”

“Right about what?” Monkey asked, glancing between the four of them.

Tripitaka chose to step in. “They all just want to know how long you’re staying with us. I- we- all were wondering. You seem like the kind of guy to have lots of things to do other than hang out with me.”

Monkey looked wounded. “Why are you trying to get rid of me?” he whined. “I’ve been good…”

A laugh the size of a sigh escaped Tripitaka’s lips at his dramatic lament. “No, it’s not that,” she said quickly. “It’s more like they were wondering why you were still around if you had somewhere else to be.”

He shrugged, fiddling with his pockets. “I don’t. I mean, it’s like I said before; I was… between adventures when I met you.”

“Oh, so you’re only sticking around because I’m amusing to you?” Tripitaka scoffed, hand on her hip.

Monkey spluttered, searching for a reply. “No! What I meant was-”

Tripitaka chuckled. “I get it, Monkey. You don’t have to explain yourself; we’re glad you’re here.”

Monkey pointed his finger right in Tripitaka’s face, almost touching her nose. “Unnecessary roughness, little monk.”

She laughed, swatting his hand away. Rén interrupted.

“I’m not glad he’s here.” Tripitaka glanced at the grumpy bird. At this point there wasn’t anything she could do to appease him, and her stomach turned at the awkwardness. “He’s weird and distracting you from going faster.”

Monkey shrugged. “Can’t win them all.”

Tripitaka studied the two of them, trying to piece it all together. If Echo was correct in that Rén was getting angry about not being as dead-set focused on going back to Troy because he was now starting to actually tolerate everyone’s company, Monkey would be the only new factor he could reasonably exert his frustration towards.

“I think…” she began, “That Monkey has been overall more helpful to our journey than a hindrance. You can disagree, but Rén, I’m going to ask you to be civil to him and Infernape as long as we’re all together. You don’t need to be friends, but you need to get along. Okay?”

The owl huffed and turned his head around to stare at anything that wasn’t the group of them. Monkey pursed his lips, probably trying to think of something to say.

Tripitaka figured Monkey probably needed to be told not to antagonize Rén so it would appear she wasn’t playing favorites, but Monkey interrupted.

“Hey, check this out.”

Before either of them could react, Monkey reached over and pulled up Rén’s belly feathers to reveal he actually had long legs hidden under all that fluff. Rén whirled around and bit Monkey with an indignant hiss as Monkey laughed and released him.

“You didn’t tell me you had secret legs!” Tripitaka exclaimed, stifling a laugh as Monkey continued to cackle as he clutched his now bruised hand.

“I wasn’t aware it needed to be said!” he spat, fluffing up to twice his size. “I don’t ask about your… secret skin you hide under your human clothing!” Rén went on.

“I mean… did you wanna see it?” Monkey asked, already crossing his arms to pull off his shirt. Tripitaka yanked it back down with a stern glance, smothering her smile to appease the owl. However, she couldn’t do anything about the warmth heating her face as she recalled what Monkey looked like shirtless.

“I’m sure he didn’t mean any offense, Rén,” Tripitaka soothed, shooting Monkey a warning glance.

“Hm. Maybe Secret Skin should be the name of a punk band,” Monkey mused. “Infernape, write that one down.” Rén let out a screech and took off in an explosion of feathers, smacking Tripitaka’s head with his wings as he flew off.

Tripitaka sighed, rubbing her skull. “I was going to say please don’t antagonize Rén since I just asked him to be civil, Monkey.”

“Ah.” Monkey shuffled his feet and rubbed his hand. “Well, I did overhear some of what you guys were talking about. How that bird is less hostile towards you.”

“How could you tell?” Tripitaka snorted. “He seemed normal to me just then.”

“I mean, we can all tell,” Monkey said, looking off in the direction Rén had gone. “You probably didn’t notice because you’re new to this, but his marker for your name and how he addresses you has changed. You can’t hide that shit in Pokéspeech.”

Tripitaka frowned. She hadn’t noticed Rén’s marker for her much at all, if she were honest. She was still mostly focused on the context clues to piece together what he and the other Pokémon were actually saying.

“Troy’s probably noticed too,” Monkey went on. “He used to call you, for lack of a better word, a dumb bitch. But now it’s just ‘person’. Much more neutral.” He nudged her. “I told you that you could befriend anything.”

“It’s a bit early to say we’re friends. But I’ll take it.” Tripitaka allowed herself a greedy thought of Rén perching on her arm like he did for Troy, but shooed it away. She’d be at her internship and Rén would be back at the Tower before that would ever happen.

---

Olivine’s harbor was jam-packed with trainers; some queued up in endless lines, some milling around in small tent gatherings, all presumably camping out waiting for a ferry. Tripitaka gripped her backpack tighter. She had two badges; she was prioritized for a spot on the ferry. No problem. Right? Monkey reached back and took hold of her wrist as he led the way through a throng of people to the ticket check in, where several officials were trying to organize the chaos.

“Where’s the ferry for Unova?” Tripitaka yelled above the cacophony of the crowd, frantically reading all the available ships and departure times. “It was listed this morning!”

Monkey shook his head. “I don’t see any.”

“Reminder: all ferries have been once again diverted due to unusual and unsafe weather storms and ocean currents,” an announcer droned. “The city of Olivine apologizes for any inconvenience.”

Tripitaka gaped at Monkey, who was frowning and studying a map on his phone. “What kind of freak storm pops up out of nowhere like this again?” he muttered. He glanced up at her. “They’re right; looks like every ocean route out of Johto is still fucked up and looks like everyone is diverting to either Lilycove or Slateport for now.”

Her heart started racing, her ribcage squeezing it too tight. “But I… That’s still…”

Monkey noticed her look and shepherded her to a less crowded space and sat her down. “Listen, little monk. You’ve got plenty of time. Just tell that professor dude what’s going on and he’ll probably not hold it against you. I know a guy near Slateport that might be able to help out. Either that or the weather will clear up and we can get you on a boat to Unova. Or hell, maybe even straight to Orre. How’s that for a plan?”

Tripitaka took a deep breath, her head jerkily nodding. “It’s better than sitting around hoping it will get better,” she admitted.

“Attagirl. Let’s go get you on a ferry.”

You take my over-analyze away
It’s you and me against the world today.

You’re my umbrella against the sticks and stones
As long as we keep smiling, they’ll never know.

Chapter Text

The long line tested her patience, but she did indeed secure a ticket for Hoenn, proudly scanning in her two badges. Monkey opened his wallet and held it up, probably to show off all his badges. The clerk’s eyebrows raised, and after a moment gave him a ticket, glancing at him up and down.

“Cool. Boat departs in an hour but we can get on whenever,” Monkey said, cracking his neck.

Tripitaka nodded. “I’m going to go to the Pokémon Center first; Echo has been battling a lot.” Monkey shrugged and followed without complaint. While there were a lot of people inside, the nurse assured them it would be a quick wait and they’d have plenty of time.

“Oh, and a package arrived for you this morning, Tripitaka,” Nurse Joy said, trading Tripitaka her Pokéballs for a mail key. “It’s from the Sprout Tower.”

Upon looking at the package’s contents, she immediately called Troy as soon as she could.

“I was hoping you’d call before you left!” Troy greeted with a smile.

“Uh, yeah, how could I not?” Tripitaka held up his string of well-worn wooden prayer beads. “Why did you send these? They’re yours, Troy. You’ve had them your entire life, I can’t take these!”

Troy held up his hands. “I know, I know! But I would love it if you did take them. This way I can always be with you, even when you’re traveling.”

Rén, who had joined them, looked puzzled albeit pleased, gently nibbling on each bead.

“Besides,” Troy continued, “It’s useful in that minimized Pokéballs can be stored on it. I never did, but it would be useful on your travels instead of in your pocket like I know you keep them in.”

Tripitaka gave him a chiding glance, but after some coaching, managed to install all three of her Pokéballs onto it. They could be taken off and replaced easily, but stayed firmly in place otherwise. She had to admit, it was useful.

“You could’ve sent me some generic ones instead of your antique one,” Tripitaka muttered, although she did like the way they looked hanging from her belt.

“I beg your pardon? ‘Antique’?” Troy said, mock offended. “That Monkey fellow must be wearing off on you. Speaking of which, is he still with you?”

“Yes, but he’s been behaving,” Tripitaka snickered at Troy’s concerned look. “He said he’d go with me to Hoenn. Oh yeah, I probably should tell you about that…”

After a recap of the ferry situation, Troy nodded. “It’s still moving forward, even if it’s not entirely the correct direction. You’ll get there, Tripitaka. You’ll get there with plenty of time to spare.”

“I appreciate your confidence,” Tripitaka chuckled. She glanced at the clock. “I better get going, Troy. Wish me luck.”

“I wish you safe travels and good company,” Troy replied. He nodded to her. “Take care, my dear.”

Afterwards Monkey insisted on getting boat snacks despite there being food on the ferry itself. Tripitaka held the door open at the convenience store for a sailor, who looked at her and his brows lifted.

“Another one? I helped out one of yours not too long ago!”

Tripitaka blinked before wondering if this was the same man who gave Gaxin a lift. “Yes, we’re both traveling to Unova.”

The sailor made a concerned sound. “Rough seas for large ferries these days.”

“So you’ll help out this monk on her pilgrimage?” Monkey butted in. “You said you helped out another one.”

The man shook his head. “Sorry. I’m busy.” He left without another word.

Monkey stared after him, incomprehensible mutterings escaping his lips. “Are you serious?”

Tripitaka sighed, trying to hide her irritation and disappointment. Of course no free or convenient or straightforward rides for her. Naturally. “Compassion fatigue is a thing, Monkey. We’ve got tickets anyway.”

After their tickets were scanned and being told to keep all large Pokémon inside of their Pokéballs during the voyage due to overcrowding as well as to keep any trainer battles small and contained, they finally boarded. Tripitaka was puzzled that Monkey was called ‘sir’ as he was welcomed aboard while Tripitaka was largely ignored, but she let it drop. Monkey didn’t seem comfortable with the title either. Trainers were densely lining the main deck, some even going so far as setting up tents as the ferry departed the harbor with a blast of its horn. Apparently the ferry had run out of cabins.

Tripitaka explored every part of the ship she had access to, Monkey following. He wasn’t as enamored with the novelty of being on a boat out in the open ocean like she was, but kept up regardless. He probably was used to it, considering how much he traveled. Every so often he’d look up when he thought she wasn’t looking and scan the skies for something with a flicker of anxiety in his eyes, but didn’t say why. Tripitaka guessed he was looking for his perpetually flying mystery Pokémon.

“Infernape meets the size limits; why isn’t he out?” Tripitaka asked, watching as Echo sized up some of the Pokémon that were littered around the upper deck. Sage was enthusiastically greeting every single Pokémon and human she could find, much to everyone’s delight. Rén was perched on the railing, studying the moving waves and watching a trainer throw an entire sandwich to what appeared to be a dolphin-like Pokémon playing in the wake of the ship. Palafin, she recalled. Or was it Finizen? It was so difficult to tell from this angle.

“He hates the ocean. Fire type, you know how it is,” Monkey shrugged, glancing up again. Tripitaka noticed he was gripping Infernape’s Pokéball rather tightly.

“Do you not like the ocean either?” Tripitaka asked warily.

His eyes jerked back to hers, biting his lip. “Can’t… swim. Yeah.”

“Oh. Well we don’t need to do that here,” Tripitaka replied, feeling awkward at his reluctance to answer. She wondered how Monkey had lived his entire life without learning something so basic while being so advanced in Pokémon training, but shrugged it off. It’s not like she was the best swimmer either, considering how little she practiced.

Echo appeared next to her and grabbed her hand. “I want a battle,” he informed her. “Battle with me.”

“You want to battle all the time,” Tripitaka replied. Echo’s tail lashed and he nodded, waiting for her to follow him. Win or lose, Echo had been picking exponentially a lot more fights than when she’d first caught him. He was dedicated to his evolution goal; she’d give him that.

After asking around, a girl barely in her teens took up her offer, sending out a Spheal. Tripitaka smiled at the adorable little roly-poly seal, which let out a squeak and clapped its fins together. While cute, Tripitaka thought Sage was much cuter, although she was biased.

“Use Shadow Ball, Echo!”

“Water Gun!” Spheal’s trainer countered.

Echo formed the dark clump of energy in his paws, sending it at the seal with a punch. Spheal smiled, and expertly rolled out of the way before firing a small spurt of water that struck Echo right on the nose. Echo bristled, rubbing his face. Spheal barked up at him with a wide grin, firing another Water Gun that whizzed by Echo’s shoulder. Tripitaka didn’t want to be cheap and use Shock Wave and figured it would just roll out of the way of another Shadow Ball, so it had to be up close.

“Teleport in and then do a point blank Shadow Ball,” she called.

“Be ready with an Ice Ball!” the girl shouted.

Echo disappeared with his attack charging in his paws as Spheal gathered water particles in the air to freeze solid in front of its mouth.

Both attacks landed at the same time, Spheal tumbling backwards and Echo recoiling, shivering and brushing snow off his chest armor. Tripitaka really wished she could film this battle to study later, but Monkey surprised her by stepping into her line of sight holding his phone up.

“You’re doing amazing, Echo!” he called, watching on the screen. Tripitaka smothered a laugh. Spheal’s trainer didn’t appear to have noticed, focusing entirely on the battle.

“Again, Spheal!”

“Echo, use…” Tripitaka hesitated. The two Pokémon seemed pretty even, so why not go for it? “Thunder Punch.”

Echo glanced back at her before charging in, sparks dancing around his clenched paw. Spheal was forming another clump of ice, bigger now that its mouth was already so cold from the first attack. Echo socked Spheal in the side, bursts of electricity surrounding them both. Tripitaka winced as both Pokémon squealed from the shock, Spheal rolling back and not moving, Echo shuddering from the leftover static, but still standing. Not quite a properly controlled Thunder Punch, but Echo was on to something there.

“Aww. Good game,” the girl said, sounding disappointed but good natured as Spheal came to and nuzzled her.

“Not a bad attempt at a Thunder Punch,” Monkey commented. “Good form. You just lost control of it, that’s all.”

“We can keep trying later, Echo,” Tripitaka told him. “But good job. If you want, we can see if someone else wants to battle…”

Echo held up a paw, catching his breath. “Wait…”

Tripitaka frowned, but her jaw went slack as his entire body was wrapped in a blinding white glow. Nearby trainers cheered and whistled as Echo stood taller, his tail fluffing out, and long whiskers sprouting from his muzzle. The glow faded, and the newly-evolved Kadabra examined his limbs, giving his much bushier tail an experimental swish. After some consideration and a motion of his finger, leftover energy formed into the shape of a silver spoon that Echo grabbed, turning it over and examining it. He’d use it to focus his new psychic powers, and Tripitaka was looking forward to doing more research into it.

“Huh. So that’s where the spoon comes from,” Monkey noted.

Sage squealed and launched herself into Echo’s arms, congratulating him as she darted over his shoulders, giving the dash of red fur on his forehead a lick.

“Please tell me you got all that,” Tripitaka breathed, still studying Echo. He was much taller than before; coming up to about her chin now. She doubted Monkey could dangle him in the air like before.

Monkey tapped at his phone. “Already sent, nerd.”

Tripitaka strode over to Echo, still in awe of what happened. She’d seen Pokémon evolve, sure, but it felt so much more special when it was her own Pokémon. She didn’t believe it was possible, but she’d actually raised a Pokémon enough for it to evolve. Granted Echo had put in a lot of work, but she was still there and had at least somewhat helped.

“That’s better,” Echo said, his voice a bit deeper and raspier. It was a bit trickier to parse, but she supposed it was because she was used to his Abra voice. Echo stroked his long whiskers, looking sheepishly up at her. “I’m kind of tired from all that…”

“You’re fine, take a break. We can talk later. Congratulations Echo. Infernape will be so proud,” Tripitaka praised, recalling him. “You were great.”

Monkey leaned on the railing. “Trainers see lots of Pokémon evolve but… it never gets old.”

“I feel like I can run all the way to Orre,” Tripitaka chuckled, heart still racing. “I actually can’t wait to battle with Echo now.” After a thought she took out her phone and skimmed through the Pokédex’s battle information on Kadabra. Given his new powers, he’d learned a few new techniques she was sure he’d enjoy trying out later. She’d also have to do more research into Kadabra behavior and physiology and get Echo’s account on what it felt like to evolve, but she had plenty of time for that.

“Well that’s a fun change,” Monkey observed. “Keep this up and we’ll have you participating in the Leagues next.”

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” Tripitaka groaned. She rested her chin on her arms, now thoughtful. “Do you think Echo will be… different?” She’d heard of Pokémon that underwent a drastic personality change upon evolution. She knew each case was different and such changes were rare, but she wasn’t sure how she would deal with potentially two antagonistic Pokémon.

“Nah,” Monkey said with a flippant gesture. “He might have a more mature outlook on things now that he’s grown up some, but he’s still the same little dude you caught back in Goldenrod.”

“Only he’s bigger and stronger. And can levitate objects. And can read minds now,” Tripitaka realized. She buried her head back into her arms with a groan. “We’re going to have to lay down some ground rules for his new powers…”

Monkey shrugged. “You might not have to. One step at a time, nerd.” He checked his shoulder into hers. “Just relax for now.”

It wasn’t too long as the afternoon wore on that Sage got bored. She could only get so many pats and cuddles from all of her two hundred new best friends before she needed to do something else. Tripitaka felt a cold nose nudge her ankle and then heard a chirp.

“Ball.”

She glanced down, and Sage was expectantly wagging her tail, staring at Tripitaka’s bag. “I don’t know if your ball is a good idea on the ship… it might roll overboard.”

Sage wasn’t deterred. “I’ll be careful,” she insisted, the wind waggling her long ears.

Tripitaka glanced around. She supposed if the worst case scenario happened and Sage did lose the ball, she could probably ask some people nearby if they had any Pokémon that could go down and retrieve it. Maybe that trainer with the dolphin Pokémon could help. She sighed. She was probably overthinking everything. Monkey nudged her, his imploring eyes mirroring Sage’s.

“Fine…” Sage’s delighted squeals put a smile on Tripitaka’s face as she gingerly tossed the ball near the center of the deck. Sage batted it around before delivering it to Monkey, who threw it with much more force than Tripitaka would’ve dared. The Eevee preferred this approach, even getting into it so much that she used a Quick Attack to catch up to her bouncing toy. Tripitaka glanced over at Rén, who was still perched on the railing, but his head was turned all the way around to watch Sage play.

A few minutes later he was fully turned around watching with interest. Tripitaka was sure to not look at him directly; he’d probably get huffy at that. Sage, however, noticed his attention, and dipped into a bow, nosing the ball his way. The owl did indeed huff and look away before she gave up and went back to slapping the ball around. Tripitaka finally tossed the ball straight up, and in the instant Sage was waiting for it to come down, Rén had swooped up and plucked it out of the air, landing softly a bit away. Tripitaka grabbed Monkey’s arm with a soft gasp, and he gently shook her hand playfully in return.

Sage squealed and darted over to retrieve her ball, and Rén spun around, blocking his feet with his body and wings, head swiveling to watch her. He was mantling again, Tripitaka realized, guarding a high value object. But unlike before, he didn’t have any fury in his eyes. Sage’s tail was wagging faster than a Butterfree’s wings, and she dashed around Rén to try and get at the ball but Rén would adjust just as quickly. Eventually he relinquished the ball from his grip and Sage swatted it around, Rén hopping after her and waiting for an opportunity.

Tripitaka felt glued in place, not wanting to dare to break the spell that was over Rén. Troy was right; Rén was actually playing. It appeared Sage had finally won the grouchy owl over, even if it was to be a temporary thing that Rén would probably never want to speak of again.

Sage, grinning wide and tongue lolling, finally seized the ball in her teeth, growling and shaking it until she launched it near the far side of the ferry.

“Careful,” Tripitaka dared to call, but Sage seemed on top of it, chasing it down and enthusiastically pouncing on it. The ball popped from her grasp and bounced over the side of the boat. Tripitaka’s heart sank as Sage’s body froze, ears drooping as she realized her mistake, trying to find something to call out to make the little fox feel better.

Rén landed on the railing and folded his wings, diving out of sight.

“Sage, it’s okay, Rén will get it,” Tripitaka called. She hadn’t considered the owl would do such a thing considering he couldn’t fly with wet feathers.

She frowned. Surely he had it by now?

Horror gnawed a hole in her stomach, and she sprinted to the other side of the boat, slamming into the railing. “Rén! Rén!”

Sage shrieked, Monkey appearing by Tripitaka’s side, looking frantically for any sign of the bird. “There!” he yelled.

A brown shape was floundering far below them, flapping uselessly to keep his head above the water. A wave crashed over him and he disappeared.

“No!” Tripitaka screamed. Monkey ripped off his hoodie and climbed up the railing, ready to dive in, wide eyes focused solely on where Rén was last seen. “Wait, no!” Tripitaka cried, seizing his arm with one hand and with the other yanking off Rén’s Pokéball and holding it up. The smallest blur of brown appeared in the midst of the churning foam, and after taking a second to aim and pray the beam would reach him, Tripitaka pressed the recall button and as loud as she could screamed, “Come back!”

Her steel grip on Monkey didn’t release until the red energy that was Rén was entirely collected inside the ball. She clutched the Pokéball to her pounding chest. He was back. He was fine.

Limbs turning to jelly beneath her, she instantly sent Rén back out onto the deck, tears burning her eyes. He formed into an awkward sitting position, blinking and pulling his soggy wings away from his sodden body. Tripitaka threw her arms around him, apologizing over and over about recalling him, babbling on about how she knows he hates being in a Pokéball before he sneezed a spray of saltwater into her face, shivering. Sage asked if he was alright, nudging under Tripitaka’s arm to peer at him.

“Is it okay?” several voices murmured. Tripitaka looked up through her blurry eyes to see a small crowd had formed around them.

“He’s fine; we got him,” Monkey called, none too subtly making the crowd back up and give them space. He scooped Sage up, and for once she squirmed in his grasp to be put down, but he held fast, hovering over them.

Tripitaka, after a moment of realization, hastily released Rén, sitting back to look at him. He was so much smaller without all his perfectly preened feathers, but his orange eyes were just as piercing, albeit at the moment squinting. “We need to get you dried off…”

A brawny man in a worn sailor’s outfit knelt next to her, a tiny, worried Wooper at his heels. “You’d best get him rinsed off first, miss. That salt will wreck his feathers if it dries.”

Tripitaka nodded, just wanting to get it over with so she could dry him off. At the sailor’s nod, Wooper shot a soft stream of water from its wide mouth and gently rinsed every bit of Rén off, Tripitaka apologizing to Rén constantly as she held out his wings to make sure they were clean. He was silent, eyes closed and perfectly still except for his shivers. Several people offered towels when they were finished, and Tripitaka tried to be fast, still babbling apologies and explaining it needed to happen and it would be over soon, mostly to herself. When she was about finished and Monkey returned the towels, she realized that Rén hadn’t once lashed out at her for daring to touch him. Nausea bubbled in her throat. He was probably in shock.

Monkey tapped her shoulder, handing her his hoodie and tugging on her dripping wet long scarf until she handed it over. “Come on. We can use the restroom’s dryers and then keep him in our room.”

Tripitaka nodded, bundling Rén up in Monkey’s hoodie and picking him up. “Wait, our room?”

“Uh, yeah. Our room. I wanted them to upgrade your cabin to the premium one, but then they threw a bitch fit about rooms and needing the space until they just put you in mine because it had two beds. So… hope you don’t mind.”

At this point, Tripitaka didn’t care about where she slept as long as she could get Rén warmed up and settled. This eerie calm and not pecking her hands off thing he was doing was making her uneasy. Before long, Rén was mostly dried and fluffed back out and Monkey opened the door to their room. It was far larger and more furnished than Tripitaka thought would be possible on a boat, with two queen sized beds stocked with plenty of blankets and pillows. After pulling one of the many pillows on her bed down and settling a wobbly Rén on top of it, she made a makeshift nest out of her now-dried scarf and some spare blankets. Rén still wasn’t standing like he normally did. He pressed his head into the wall, eyes half shut.

“What’s wrong?” Tripitaka asked him.

“It’s stable here.”

Tripitaka bit her lip, not knowing how worried she needed to be. It’s possible he just had water in his ears that was messing with his balance, but her mind went to the worst possible options.

“You need to get looked at as soon as we’re in Slateport,” Tripitaka murmured. “Rén. I know you don’t like being in your Pokéball, but if you get worse I’m going to have to recall you until the Pokémon Center can take a look at you to keep you stable. Okay?”

“Whatever.”

If she were honest with herself, she was hoping for some more pushback from him, but figured he was just tired. She settled on the carpet near Rén, glancing around for something else that might make him more comfortable. “I wish we had a heater in here for you…”

Monkey was sitting on the bed he’d claimed, fiddling with Infernape’s Pokéball. Tripitaka wanted to ask if Infernape would be willing to come out and help, but didn’t want to pressure either of them. Eventually he half shrugged. “We’ll turn the thermostat up for tonight. Anyway I’m going to go get us some food. You can stay here with them.”

“Thanks.”

Monkey looked like he was holding the door open for Sage to follow out of habit, but left when she remained where she was seated on the floor near Tripitaka and Rén. Sage stepped onto the pillow and nestled down into the blankets, tucking her paws under her plush mane. Rén glanced down at her but didn’t attempt to move.

“I’m sorry this happened to you because of me,” Sage whispered, ears lowering.

Rén kept his eyes shut, but after some wobbly effort stood up. His foot slowly emerged from his belly feathers revealing a familiar ball that he released from a death grip onto the pillow before sitting back down. Sage and Tripitaka’s eyes widened. He’d been holding onto it the entire time. Rén cracked open an eye to look at Sage, but she nosed the ball out of the nest and snuggled into his side that much harder, purring for all she was worth. His expression turned ever so slightly perplexed before he settled back down and shut his eyes.

The three sat in silence for a while, Tripitaka going back and forth from researching how to treat waterlogged birds, Hoothoot physiology, and watching Rén. Finally he huffed.

“Going to be a devil to get all these feathers sorted…” he muttered without opening his eyes.

Tripitaka winced at the sorry state of him. Every single feather he had looked lopsided and raggedy. “Sorry for messing them up when I was drying you off.”

“I’d rather be dry.”

That she would agree with. She chuckled to herself. “This is the most you’ve ever spoken with me.”

“You didn’t understand me before, so what was the point?”

“Growing up you spoke around other people that didn’t speak Pokéspeech,” Tripitaka recalled. “But you just got mad at me.” She instantly regretted her words, afraid it would make him angry at her again. Sage kept her eyes shut but her ears twitched, indicating she was listening.

Instead he surprised her once again by peering at her with a half-open eye. “The difference was you were always smart enough to learn, even as a hatchling. You chose not to try.” His eye shut again.

Tripitaka bit back a retort. His blunt words, although spoken in an impersonal tone, felt like a leveled accusation wrapping her heart in nettles. She had tried, several times, both growing up and on her journey. It just didn’t click like it had for Troy or come along naturally like it did for Monkey. But deep down, she finally admitted he had a point.

Sage kept silent, not offering an opinion. Tripitaka had a feeling Sage agreed with Rén, although she wouldn’t say it out loud. She almost wished Sage would add to the conversation since she didn’t know how to reply to Rén, but was saved when the key fiddled in the door. Monkey emerged, carrying several stacked containers of various foods balanced precariously on each other and tucked under his arms and chin.

“I got a bit of everything,” he announced, immediately dropping several boxes on the floor. For once Sage didn’t leap up to greet him, instead staying perfectly still where she was, save for her sniffing nose. Rén turned down Sage’s offer to share her food, citing a lack of appetite. Tripitaka figured he didn’t want anything that wasn’t raw meat anyway.

“You know, Echo is probably going to say that he could’ve teleported and gotten Rén,” Tripitaka realized as they threw away their trash and started winding down for the evening.

Monkey snorted. “And I’ll tell him to not be a smartass.”

---

A soft grunt pulled Tripitaka out of her light sleep. She had only been dozing despite her exhaustion, waking up every so often to get a visual on Rén and make sure he was still okay. Sage was committed to her cuddling, and had somehow burrowed closer to Rén as the night went on. The sound hadn’t come from them.

Another quiet whimper.

Her attention turned to Monkey, who had also been restless all night. His face, illuminated by the faint glow of the beginnings of dawn through the curtains, was contorted into a deep frown, occasionally drawing in short gasps, twitching.

“Monkey,” Tripitaka whispered to him, torn between wanting to wake him from whatever was frightening him but not wanting to wake her Pokémon.

He didn’t hear her, his hands moving around and grasping at the sheets, a louder groan escaping him. She slid out of bed and gently shook his shoulder. “Wake up.”

His lips parted, a panicked sound hurting Tripitaka’s heart. “Return…” he mumbled.

She shook him harder. “Monkey.”

“Come back!” Monkey screamed, sitting bolt upright. His arm outstretched and fingers flexed into claws, breaths coming in ragged pants. Tripitaka leaped back, heart pounding. Monkey sat there violently shaking, his arm slowly lowering as he looked around wildly. His face and chest gleamed with sweat, eyes shining with tears. Tripitaka seized his hand, squeezing it tight.

“It’s okay, you’re safe,” she soothed, her free hand absently stroking his damp hair. “It’s just a dream.”

“Tripitaka?” he croaked, his terrified eyes still not focused.

“I’m here,” she assured him, giving his hand another squeeze.

He threw his arms around her, leaning his weight into her. “I failed…”

Tripitaka shook her head, hoping her hug would ease his shaking body. She wasn’t sure what she was disagreeing with, but she couldn’t let him feel like this, even if he was still half-asleep. “You didn’t fail. It was just a dream.”

He sat back, looking down at their joined hands, finally realizing he was still clutching at her. “Don’t leave. Please…”

“I won’t,” Tripitaka assured him. “I’m right here.”

When his trembling finally ceased, he eased back down into a tight ball and Tripitaka pulled the blanket back over him, sitting with him until his breathing slowed as he calmed down. She glanced over at Rén and Sage. Rén was still asleep, but Sage’s wide eyes were staring back at her. With a sigh, Tripitaka sat back down on her own bed, coming to terms with the realization there was no way she was going to get back to sleep.

You’ve got it all
You lost your mind in the sound
There’s so much more, you can reclaim your crown
You’re in control, rid of the monsters inside your head
Put all your faults to bed
You can be king again.

Chapter Text

“We’ll have to keep him overnight for observation,” the nurse told Tripitaka. She had to project her voice to be heard over the busy Pokémon Center. “Just contact the nurse in the next town you stop at and we can send him over to you.”

Tripitaka glanced at Rén, whose tired face was neutral but his ear tufts flattened ever so slightly at the notion of being put in a Pokéball to transport him over to wherever she went next. She shook her head. “We can pick him up in the morning. Could you give Sprout Tower a call tonight and let him talk to Troy for a bit?”

“Of course,” the nurse replied with a smile. “We can do that for you. Your other Pokémon should be available for pickup in a minute.”

“Thanks,” Tripitaka replied, watching Rén be wheeled to the back room on a little cart pushed by a Chansey whose cheerful smile didn’t reach its stressed eyes. She glanced around at Slateport’s Pokémon Center. Even relatively early in the morning it was absolutely packed. If Olivine was crowded, Slateport was that much worse off. While Olivine had mostly people from Johto, Slateport had people from all over the world, all funneled in from the freak storms that kept diverting ferries.

Tripitaka fought off a yawn. The ferry had arrived at seven and Tripitaka had made a break straight for the Pokémon Center to get Rén looked at. He was fine, just waterlogged from his little dip into the ocean, but she couldn’t be too careful. She let out a sigh. As much as she wanted to keep going on as soon as possible, she could afford to wait an extra day for the ornery owl. Although she wasn’t sure what she was going to do all day, aside from perhaps researching alternative ways to get to Orre that fit into the permitted forms of transport. Maybe she could email the professor and explain her situation…

“Get out of the way, freak!”

Tripitaka glanced up, accepting Sage and Echo’s Pokéballs from the attendant. A few teenagers had surrounded a tall girl with wild, unkempt hair that looked to be about her age.

“Ew, no, get away from me,” another said.

A crowd was starting to bunch up in the already crowded lobby, boxing the girl in, who looked at her feet and was trying to shuffle out of the way.

“Isn’t she the one that beat you in that last tournament?” another kid called, sounding more and more aggressive. “How did she win when she barely talks?” Tripitaka noted the girl was gripping a Pokéball in her trembling hand rather tightly.

Without another thought, Tripitaka forced her way through the crowd, muttering forced pardons and politely shoving her way to the middle of the throng and grabbed the girl’s clammy hand. “There you are!” she said loudly, tugging towards the door. “I’ve been looking for you everywhere. Come on, let’s go, everyone’s waiting!”

The crowd parted, as they often did in the presence of a member of the cloth. Most of the time people didn’t know how to react to monks and gave them space and didn’t ask questions, and Tripitaka leaned into that as she half dragged the girl away and out the front doors. She didn’t stop until they’d put some distance between them and the Pokémon Center before she stopped, heart thumping.

Tripitaka finally let go of the girl’s hand and looked back at her. “Are you alright?” she asked. “Sorry, I didn’t ask if you were done in the Pokémon Center… did you have everything you needed? I could go back…?”

The girl shook her head. Her stormy gray eyes flicked up at Tripitaka’s before returning to her shoes, which Tripitaka noted were ragged, almost about to fall off her feet. “Thanks,” she forced out, as if she hadn’t spoken in a long time.

“It was getting crowded in there,” Tripitaka observed, running a hand through her hair. “I was getting overwhelmed myself. I’m Tripitaka, by the way.”

“Sandy,” the girl rasped. Tripitaka studied her. A lot of her clothes looked threadbare and she looked thin and tired. She debated giving her some money or offering to buy her a meal, but Sandy nodded to her. “Bye, Tripitaka.”

Tripitaka raised a hand to bid Sandy farewell but she’d already scuttled off and disappeared between some nearby buildings. Well, if Sandy thought she was okay that would have to do. Besides, didn’t one of the kids say she won a tournament? Those usually had cash prizes so she couldn’t be entirely destitute, despite her looks.

Monkey had texted her that he was off poking around and that he’d meet back up with her near the Pokémon Center soon, so she had some time to herself for a little bit. She rolled Echo’s Pokéball around in her palm, contemplating. She wasn’t much for the trainer lifestyle, but she was curious to see what Echo could do now that he evolved into a stronger form. He probably was curious as well. A boy, probably no older than ten, darted by, sporting some goggles on his head and a Grovyle hanging onto his back. He glanced up at her as he passed, and skidded to a stop, the green gecko studying her.

“I know that look. You want a battle,” the kid said, eyes glinting with youthful enthusiasm. “I’m Kaedo. This is my starter, Fangkris. He just evolved!”

Fangkris sprang off Kaedo’s back and flashed two claws up in a peace sign, nodding a greeting. Grovyle were not fully evolved but were also pretty speedy, but so were Kadabra. This might actually be an even match…

“I’m Tripitaka, and Echo also just evolved too,” she greeted, sending out Echo. For a half second she was caught off guard by his new silhouette and size, but reminded herself it was still him. “Ready to try out your new moves, Echo?”

Echo settled into a ready stance, spinning his spoon over his fingers. “Ready.”

“Confusion, Echo!”

“Fangkris, use Quick Attack!” Kaedo commanded.

Even though Echo had gotten his command first, Fangkris was unbelievably fast, turning into a green blur and driving his shoulder into Echo’s belly in an instant. Echo wheezed, but managed to gather some blue psychic energy around his spoon, Fangkris taking on the same aura and being forced back with a wince as the attack burst around him.

“Follow up with Shadow Ball!” Tripitaka called.

Kaedo looked surprised at the unexpected move, but remained steady. “Quick Attack to dodge and then start building up Fury Cutters!”

The ghost attack formed much quicker and bigger than it ever had compared to when Echo was still an Abra, his practice paying off paired with his new power. However Fangkris was still too fast for it as he blurred once again and zoomed out of the way, the orb bursting into nothing. Tripitaka gritted her teeth in frustration.

Fangkris followed up and with his wrist leaves glowing a faint green, slashed at Echo, who blocked with his spoon.

“Teleport away and try again!”

Echo winced as one of the Fury Cutters cut through his guard leaving a small cut, blurring and vanishing in an instant, appearing a ways away and starting to charge another orb.

“Keep on it, Fangkris!” Kaedo yelled.

Fangkris closed the gap before Echo’s attack was fully charged, raising his leaves to strike again. Echo growled and abandoned the attack entirely, vanishing again. Tripitaka bit her lip, palms sweating. Fury Cutter got stronger the more it was used, and Echo couldn’t strike back. There had to be a way to stop it, right?”

“Disable!” she blurted out. Echo seemed to have the same idea, jabbing his spoon in Fangkris’ direction and hissing. Fangkris stopped mid charge, the glow around his leaves fading. Fangkris looked puzzled, looking at his leaves, the temporary mental block making it impossible for the gecko to remember how to use Fury Cutter. “Confusion again!”

The attack dropped Fangkris to his knees, Kaedo calling out and looking concerned, and Tripitaka seized her chance. “One more Shadow Ball!” They might actually be able to win!

“Mega Drain!” Kaedo shouted.

Once again, Fangkris proved too quick for Echo, green orbs ripping themselves out of Echo’s body and flowing into Fangkris, who stood up, looking refreshed off of Echo’s stolen energy. Echo’s attack fizzled out and he collapsed, spoon still clenched in his hand.

Tripitaka sighed, more out of disappointment in herself than anything. Kaedo whooped and high fived Fangkris, who rasped out a victorious cheer. She went to Echo’s side and helped him sit up, spraying a potion over his cuts to close and soothe them.

“Another win for Kaedo and Fangkris and I’ve only been a trainer for a couple of days!” the boy cheered. “Thanks for the battle!” He flashed a thumbs up to Tripitaka before scampering off with Fangkris to parts unknown. Tripitaka sighed again. Winning or losing trainer battles didn’t matter a lot to her, but it did feel a bit annoying that a little kid, a brand new trainer at that, could so effortlessly defeat her. Even though Echo had gotten a few licks in, Kaedo had been in complete control for the entire battle.

She wouldn’t be surprised if the next time she saw him he’d be winning a League tournament if this was his first week as a trainer.

“Sorry about that,” she muttered to Echo. “You were great.”

He looked puzzled. “Why are you sorry? It’s a battle.”

Tripitaka was taken aback. She thought that with Pokémon’s natural competitiveness, winning or losing was important to them. “It’s just… if I were a better trainer like Monkey, you’d probably win more often.”

“But I’m not with Monkey. I’m with you,” he told her plainly. “I didn’t choose you because you were a perfect battler.”

She blinked.

“If I knew I was going to win every time I went into battle, that’s not fun,” Echo informed her. He shrugged, rubbing his whiskers. “As long as we learned something from it, right?”

Tripitaka nodded. It was just like Morty had said: battles were far more than just winning and losing. It was starting to sink in, even though she still wasn’t entirely on board with the professional trainer life. “Well, did you have fun at least?”

Echo smiled at her. “Of course! You’re fun to battle with. Your heart lights up. Can I go back in my ball now?”

“Yeah, sure. Thanks, Echo,” Tripitaka said, recalling him with a soft smile. She stood up, dusting herself off. Now that she thought about it, it had been fun watching Echo try out new moves. She made a mental note to have a more dedicated practice session with him to see the moves in a more controlled environment.

“You know, we only arrived in a new region not even an hour ago and already you’re picking fights with the locals.”

Tripitaka glanced up at Monkey, who was leaning on a building behind her. “I-”

Monkey swooped her up in his arms and sniffled. “I’m so proud.”

“I don’t get it,” she said, shoving him off and ignoring the warmth that flooded her cheeks with his action. Monkey dabbed invisible tears from the corners of his eyes. “Why am I so bad at this trainer stuff? I managed to do okay at the gyms but with normal trainers… It’s hit or miss at best.”

Monkey shrugged. “Gym battles are a different monster than trainer battles. Before gym battles you’re encouraged to prepare and analyze your opponents, and there’s strategy guides and previews to give you an idea of what you’re going to face in a somewhat controlled environment. With trainer battles you have to think of a strategy on the fly as soon as you see your opponent. It’s a different skill set, is all. Loads of trainers can get every badge in the gym circuit but get completely bodied at the regional league conferences.” He rolled his shoulders. “It’s the difference between a trainer and a master. Strength and knowledge only gets you so far. That stuff that sets champions apart comes down to the details, like concentrated training, instinct, a bit of luck, and the utmost trust and bond with your team.”

“Grit,” Tripitaka realized.

“Yeah, I guess that too. However, I did notice a few things Echo can work on, as well as your reaction times.” Monkey launched into a rapid fire explanation about how in the future to keep Echo on the run until she saw an opening (yes, the Disable was a good choice, but constantly trying to attack in the face of such a speedy opponent was not) and rambling about Grovyle’s Overgrowth ability made his last attack that much stronger and to keep abilities and the field conditions in mind before she finally cut him off, all of the information going over her head.

“Did you find out more about the hotel situation?” she finally managed to interrupt.

He took a breath. “Yeah, and it’s bad. No openings, not even for the ritziest of hotels. We’re gonna be roughing it. You going to be able to handle that?”

“Are you?” Tripitaka countered. “Mister Fancy Luxury Hotel Any Chance He Gets? How do you even have that much money anyway?”

Monkey tutted. “For starters, I roughed it for years when I first started out. Second, I’ve been on the road for a long time so you tend to make some spare change along the way.” At her exasperated glance, he rolled his eyes. “Very rude to ask, little monk.”

Just another thing to add to the list of mysteries about her friend. “You didn’t happen to scout out a good campsite, did you?”

He snapped his fingers at her. “Gotcha covered. There’s a park not too far from here that a bunch of trainers on Chatter are talking about. Probably will be less crowded than the beach, but we could stake a claim since it’s still early in the day if you wanted.”

The beach. Tripitaka had always wanted to go to one. At least an ocean beach, that is. Violet City had a small lakefront near the tower, but that wasn’t the same. She stifled a yawn. Maybe if they managed to claim a spot she could take a proper nap… she was starting to feel the lack of sleep from last night.

“Let’s go to the beach. I should check out the local wildlife anyway,” she mused, starting to walk in that direction. “If it gets too crowded we can go somewhere else.”

“Hell yeah, beach day let’s gooo!” Monkey hooted, ripping off his hoodie and twirling it above his head and grinning at her. “Are monks even allowed to go swimming? Do you even have a swim suit? I’ve never seen you in anything other than your monk robes and stuff.”

“Not a monk,” she reminded him with an eye roll. “And believe it or not, I do possess other clothes than this; I just like them.”

“Well I’m just saying if you wear all those robes, it’s going to make saving you a lot more difficult when you inevitably start drowning,” Monkey scoffed.

Tripitaka frowned. “How would you save me when you can’t swim?”

He froze. “Well, I mean, I wouldn’t be the one saving you, but like… Not that I wouldn’t want to save you, obviously I’d still do something, just not like in the water. I’d go get help,” he insisted, his eyes darting around. “You shouldn’t weigh down the lifeguard,” he concluded sternly.

Tripitaka was silent for a while, choosing her next words carefully. “But when Rén was drowning you were about to leap in after him. Someone that can’t swim wouldn’t do that.”

For the first time, Monkey was utterly silent, looking pale and rooted in place. She’d caught him in a lie. His throat bobbed as he swallowed, fingers flexing.

“Something happened to you on a boat, didn’t it?” Tripitaka asked. At his silence, she hesitated before continuing. “What happened, Monkey?”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” His legs jerked forward, forcing him into a near jog.

Tripitaka caught up to him. “You were on edge the entire time we were on the ferry. I saw you looking around constantly like you were expecting to be attacked or something. Then you… you lie about being able to swim to make an excuse for being so anxious and then you wake up in the middle of the night with a nightmare? Something happened to you, clearly.” She reached out to him, but he quickened his pace so her hand fell on empty air.

“Oh look at that, something I’d rather not talk about,” Monkey replied with forced cheer as he briskly trotted ahead, looking around to examine everything and anything but her.

“If we’re going to be traveling together, it’s not really fair to keep secrets like that or lie to me,” Tripitaka tried. He didn’t look at her, instead pulling out his phone and checking the time and scrolling through various apps without actually looking at them.

“You’re not entitled to know everything about me just because I’m traveling with you.”

“Well, then, as your friend,” Tripitaka continued, keeping her tone gentle, although his deflections were beginning to irritate her. “I’m worried.”

“And as your friend, I’m not prying into your inner workings, now am I?” he snapped, shooting her a hot glare over his shoulder. “You going to tell Echo to read my mind? He’s been dying to do that.”

“Actually, he hasn’t even mentioned it,” Tripitaka replied hotly. She took a quick breath. Getting angry wasn’t going to make him open up. “Monkey, if something’s wrong, maybe I can help. I can’t unless you tell me.”

He was already shaking his head, no longer denying something was wrong. “Not everything can be solved with… mantras from the Sprout Tower or looking it up or, or… obnoxious positivity, monk.” His tone was getting tauter, his jaw setting.

She blinked. His words stung more than she expected. “I wasn’t… I just thought maybe you could talk about it?”

He scoffed. “Why would I need to talk about it? We’re off the damn boat, aren’t we?”

“That’s not the point,” she insisted. “What matters is if something is bothering you, I want to know. Even if all I can do is just be there for you, I want to. Because I care.”

He whirled on her. “There is nothing. You. Can. Do,” he hissed, his eyes slits of brown that cut into her own. “It’s already done, and I can’t do anything about it.”

For once she felt small in his presence, not from his anger, but the fear that she was powerless to help him. She was fixed in place, not knowing what to do or how to ease his pain. Her hand drifted to Sage’s Pokéball, longing for an emotional buffer that might ease the tension, but not wanting to move.

Monkey’s mouth quivered into the beginnings of a snarl before the emotion in his eyes broke. He slumped and looked away, expression utterly defeated.

“Just… drop it,” he muttered instead, plodding over to a bench and sitting down as if he had the bones of an ancient and tired man, running his hand through his hair and down his face.

“Monkey-”

“Drop it. Please,” he added in a rasp. The mournful eyes that looked up into hers broke her heart, and she reached out again before withdrawing, holding her trembling hand to her chest.

She stood in silence for several seconds. “I’m still here to listen. If… if that’s what you want. That’s it.” She swallowed, mouth dry and her eyes watering.

He didn’t answer, instead just holding Infernape’s Pokéball and staring at it. A pang of agonizing fear shivered through Tripitaka’s body at the thought of Monkey not wanting to travel with her anymore. But even more prominent was the fear that he felt all alone in whatever he was going through and she couldn’t help.

She swallowed again and took a breath to try and steady her voice. “I think I need to be alone for a bit. I’ll be at the beach.”

She made it a few steps before his quiet voice made her stop. “It all happened about a year ago.”

He was sitting with his head bowed, fidgeting hands folded between his knees like a prayer.

Tripitaka warily approached and sat next to him, waiting.

He was silent, his leg now bouncing. Finally he sniffed, glancing up at her. “You really don’t know who I am, do you?”

Tripitaka wasn’t expecting the question. “Should I? I could gather you’re a professional trainer since Infernape is so well trained and you know so much…”

His lips twitched into the first smile she’d seen in a while from him in too long. “I guess you wouldn’t know. But, yeah. I’m a professional trainer. I’m also… kind of… famous in the battling scene.”

“Like… A champ-”

“Of worlds. World champion.”

Tripitaka blinked, trying to process all this and wondering how she hadn’t known. “So you’ve won a lot of tournaments?”

“Yeah. Like. All of them.”

Tripitaka stared at him. He kept shooting her glances and not holding her gaze at all. “Why didn’t you say anything?”

“You didn’t ask.”

Tripitaka rubbed her head, not sure what to say to all of this. “Um.”

“I’m still surprised you didn’t know my face from all the adverts I was in. Or my merch. But you’re so far removed from the battling scene I guess it made sense. It was nice, being with someone who didn’t know,” Monkey mumbled to the ground. “Who didn’t judge.”

“Why would anyone judge you?” Tripitaka asked. “Why aren’t you swamped with people asking for your autograph and stuff?”

His expression turned pained. “Remember how I said I had a polarizing effect on people?” At her nod, he continued, pulling words from his throat like they were weighed down with iron chains. “About a year ago, I was traveling on a ship to go defend my title in worlds. I’ve traveled and trained dozens of Pokémon, but at the moment I only had a main team of six, some were in storage.”

She nodded. She’d been wondering where the Eevee he said he trained in the past were, but didn’t press it.

“There were a lot of stars out. The sun had just gone down so it was starting to get colder, but there were still loads of people hanging out on the main deck with me. I was thinking about going inside and getting dinner, then a bunch of helicopters surrounded the boat. I thought it was part of some stunt for a party or whatever, but people in weird outfits started rappelling down and a fight broke out.” His jaw set as his eyes darted back and forth. “I sent my team out to handle it, but the helicopter guys...” His voice wobbled. “They started catching the Pokémon onboard. They targeted mine first.”

Tripitaka’s mouth parted in horror. She’d heard the sensationalist stories of criminals in backwater regions being able to somehow override a Pokéball’s registered ownership of a Pokémon and snagging them away, but she didn’t think that it was real. It shouldn’t be possible.

Monkey shook his head. “I tried… to recall them when I realized what was going on, but I only got to Infernape.” He reached into a side pocket on his bag and pulled out a minimized active Pokéball and pressed it into her hand, activating the send out button. The ball, going through the normal motions as if there was a Pokémon inside, opened to reveal nothing. It was uncanny. Wrong. Tripitaka’s stomach churned. “This was- is- Tyranitar’s.”

He took a shuddering breath and Tripitaka grabbed his shaking hand, lacing her fingers with his.

He didn’t seem to notice or care about their joined hands. “The thieves went back to their helicopters and then there was a bright light everywhere. It was so loud.” He managed to look at Tripitaka. “The boat lurched and I got thrown off into the sea with some other people I don’t- I don’t know what happened to the rest. Then some giant shadow took the boat away, surrounded by the helicopters. I never saw them again.”

“It sounds like a psychic Pokémon,” Tripitaka guessed. “To levitate an entire boat like that?”

Monkey nodded. “I didn’t see what it was, but I know it was gigantic. Insanely powerful too. My other Pokémon didn’t get noticed by those thieves and saved me from the ocean and we went and got help.”

Tripitaka figured his flying Pokémon was the one he couldn’t reunite with, the one that stayed close but never let itself be recalled. It made sense; it was probably traumatized by all it had seen and was fearful of being snagged. “So what happened after that?”

“There’s no trace of my team or any other Pokémon that was onboard,” Monkey rasped. “Even the couple in storage disappeared too, and no one knows why or how. I talked to a guy back in Goldenrod, the guy who invented the PC storage system, and he had no idea how that could happen. I literally only have two Pokémon left, and one doesn’t want to be anywhere near me because I let everyone down.”

Tripitaka gently rubbed a soothing motion into the small of his back with her free hand. She didn’t know anything about this second Pokémon, but it couldn’t possibly be true. It was most likely Monkey’s guilt talking.

Monkey shuffled ever so slightly closer to her, eyes damp. “They only just found the boat stranded in the middle of a fucking desert. Nothing on board, no other leads. Nothing.”

“So then what?”

“Once the leads all dried up the case got shoved down the priority list and we were banned from talking about what happened,” Monkey muttered. “And without a full team I couldn’t go defend my title because people would ask too many questions about how one of the strongest trainers in the world couldn’t protect his own Pokémon. I was told it would cause a panic.”

“So you didn’t go at all,” Tripitaka reasoned.

Monkey nodded. “I lost everything. My titles, my sponsors, fans… everyone despised me after that. Called me a coward, a flake, you name it.”

Tripitaka frowned. “For not showing up?”

He glanced at her. “You wouldn’t know, but in the trainer world, not defending your title is one of the most insulting things you can do.”

Tripitaka vaguely knew about that. Pokémon training was one of the most unifying and wholesome thing in this world that brought everyone together, but it had a severely toxic underbelly to it that went largely unseen in the public eye. Refusing a previously agreed upon match was insulting to not just the trainers involved but their Pokémon and all their effort that went into their training, not to mention the fans of the sport.

“And people don’t know why you didn’t show up,” Tripitaka realized. “They don’t know what happened to you.”

“Yeah. I didn’t even care about that though. I could get my damn title back whenever the fuck I want. But my Pokémon… my only real friends I’ve known for years… were just… gone. And I don’t know where they are, or if they’re even alive.”

He feels empty, Echo said. Dark. Empty like most of his soul was stolen away from him. Dark from wallowing alone in his hopelessness. She couldn’t imagine Sage being ripped away from her, or Echo. Even Rén being gone was a frightful thought, and she hadn’t been traveling with them for that long.

“Do you know what it sounded like, when they were snagged?” Monkey asked. Tripitaka could feel him trembling. “They were screaming for me to help them.”

Tripitaka’s eyes burned with tears. Rén had demonstrated just how painful it was being pulled into another Pokéball, even for an instant. She couldn’t imagine how agonizing it must’ve felt for Monkey’s Pokémon to be completely and utterly torn away like that. No wonder Monkey had fled the scene when he found out. She leaned her head on Monkey’s shoulder, squeezing his hand tighter in an attempt to transfer any sort of comfort into him. Some of his weight leaned into her, and she tried to meet his hollow stare.

“What good is a champ who can’t protect his own Pokémon?” Monkey asked, barely audible. “I had one job. One. Keep your Pokémon safe. And I failed.” He buried his head in his empty hand. “I blew it.”

“No.” Tripitaka’s voice cracked through her emotion. “You didn’t fail. Evil just won that day.” He pulled away and stared at her, searching her face. “The only way they’ll keep winning is if we stop trying, stop fighting, or give up hope. And you’re not going to do that. Because if you were the one missing, your team wouldn’t do that to you. We’re going to find them.”

“’We’?” Monkey echoed.

Tripitaka’s statement flowed out of her like it was a perfectly ordinary task to accomplish, despite her not even remotely knowing where to start. “Yes, ‘we’. Us. We’re going to make this right.”

Monkey looked perfectly baffled. “But… your internship?”

“I can multitask.”

For a moment he just sat there looking at her, and when she was about to say something else he wrapped his arms around her in a swift, fierce hug that chased away any words she was planning to say. She was too stunned to speak, just letting his warm embrace clear any doubt in her mind she could help him, before she reciprocated, letting her arms gently squeeze his torso. Her heart clenched in pity and her hand gently stroked the back of his head as he trembled with muffled sobs into her shoulder and let him cry for as long as he needed.

When you feel all alone
And that the world has turned its back on you
Give me a moment, please
To tame your wild, wild heart

If you need to crash, then crash and burn, you’re not alone

Chapter Text

The beach was louder than Tripitaka expected.

Not just the overwhelming din of the crush of trainers and massive crowds of people camping out on the sands, which she expected, but it was the sheer volume of the crashing waves and the roar of the ocean spray that caught her off guard.

Tripitaka could barely move her arms around without getting into someone else’s personal space or bumping into a tent or an umbrella. Clearly this wasn’t the place for them to camp out tonight, considering everyone else had the same idea. She wasn’t even sure if they’d have a place to sit in relative privacy, but Monkey was confident as he led her down to the waves, holding Sage tucked into the crook of his arm and leading Tripitaka by the arm as if he knew where to go, so she followed without complaint.

To be frank, she didn’t really have the energy to care where Monkey was leading her. All she wanted was a place to sit for a while and not think about all that she had yet to do. Scratch that; she needed to research her next steps now that she was in Hoenn. Maybe there was another ferry that would be able to take them…

“Okay, this looks good.”

Monkey’s voice pulled her out of her thoughts and her trudging feet came to a stop. She glanced up; it was quite a ways from the main entrance to the beach, and the crowd was thinner here, probably due to this part of the beach was uncomfortably sloped and rocky and not ideal for camping at all.

Sage hopped to the ground, sniffing everywhere and examining a driftwood log a few paces away.

Tripitaka glanced at Monkey. “Good for what?”

“I dunno, sitting? Parking our stuff while we go swim?” he said with a shrug. “Thought you’d want to be somewhere quiet without a million people nearby.”

Tripitaka flopped down onto the log, shuffling until she was somewhat comfortable, staring out into the endless waves. A bunch of people and Pokémon were dotting the water, and Sage took off towards the water’s edge, leaping into the water and rolling around in the sea foam and squealing when a wave washed over her. Monkey likewise pulled his shirt off over his head, shaking his long black hair out. It was like the emotional conversation that had just happened between them had never happened. Either he was the picture of emotional plasticity, capable of bouncing back from anything, or he was doing the absolute most to pretend it hadn’t happened. He glanced down at her, tipping his head.

“Are you coming?”

Tripitaka swiftly averted her eyes from his sculpted chest, instead counting how many black stones were by her feet. She shook her head. “I think I just need to sit for a bit first. I really need to look up where we should go next.”

Monkey made a quiet disappointed sound. “I mean Sage seems to be having a good time… I’m sure she’d want you to join in. Both of you guys have never been to a beach, right?”

“You should make sure she stays out of trouble,” Tripitaka told him. “I’ll catch up later.”

She chanced a look up at him and saw he was peering at her, silent.

“How much sleep have you gotten these past couple of days?” he finally asked.

“Enough,” Tripitaka grumbled. “I’m not tired.” Although now that he mentioned it, she started mentally calculating how little she’d actually gotten and a clump of tiredness tugged at her eyelids.

“You look sleepy.” She could hear a smile in his words.

Tripitaka shook her head and booted up her laptop. “I need to research; I’m fine. Just go keep an eye on Sage, please.”

“If you’re sure…” his voice trailed off. He took a breath as if he was going to say something else, his hand reaching into her personal space for a brief second. Tripitaka preemptively bristled, half-expecting him to swat the lid of her laptop, but his hand withdrew and he jogged away, calling out to Sage.

Tripitaka’s fingers rested on the keys, trying to scrounge up a line of thought so she could plan what to research. She needed to figure out where to go and make travel plans, of course, but she also needed to look into what happened to Monkey and his Pokémon. She typed ‘boat appears in a desert’ into the search bar and scanned the results.

There was nothing of relevance for the entire first page, which puzzled her. Just ads for cruises and news about the unusual weather patterns around Hoenn, which she was all too familiar with. How was an entire boat going missing not a massive story? What about the people on board, or the Pokémon?

On the second page she found a link to a video of a local news outlet in Orre that only mentioned it in passing; apparently the boat’s name was the S.S. Libra and it had been found in the desert north of Phenac City. More searches into the Libra itself led to dead ends; most hits pertained to its launch date and the shipyard that built it. She did find it an interesting coincidence it was built in the shipyard that was not too far from the Slateport Pokémon Center.

But what was the relevance of the desert where it had been found? Satellite maps didn’t yield anything of note in all four directions, although the map hadn’t been updated for almost seven years; Orre wasn’t exactly a place that needed updated maps considering the vast majority of the region was an inhospitable wasteland.

From her previous research, Orre was a place that most people stayed away from. It had no formal Pokémon League or even much infrastructure in general; the towns and cities didn’t interact much. Unova had once offered to annex the region to provide aid, but the fiercely independent people of Orre had viciously rejected any and all offers of outside charity. The only thing that Orre was known for was its wild, no holds barred battling scene and its seedy criminal underbelly, so almost everyone there was at least a somewhat competent Pokémon trainer. If there wasn’t a research lab with a job opportunity waiting for her, Tripitaka would never consider going to Orre.

Although… if there was something going on that needed to be hidden from law enforcement, Orre was the place to be. The justice system over there was a mere underfunded formality; most disputes were settled by Pokémon battles.

Tripitaka switched to a new tab, rubbing her eyes. She could really go for some tea right now… the steady rhythm of the ocean waves were hypnotic. With some consideration, she typed in Monkey’s name. She probably should have done this a long time ago, but it hadn’t crossed her mind until now.

Pictures of him popped up immediately, and she frowned. Now that she was confronted with his face and information about his Pokémon and personality in general, she had seen his merchandise and advertisements before; she just never put the pieces together.

She massaged her forehead. Monkey probably thought she was an unobservant idiot.

She clicked on a few news articles about his disappearance for later; a forum drawing her attention instead that provided a team analysis and what known moves and strategies Monkey was known for. Infernape’s estimated level made her eyes bug out; he was way stronger than Monkey alluded to. It made sense, considering how long they’d been together.

Several other Pokémon were listed; one person had made a spreadsheet with what Pokémon had been used in various League conferences Monkey had participated in… and apparently dominated. Tyranitar was also listed, making her heart hurt in sympathy. But she did have to smile; even she had seen the famous GIF of Tyranitar spinning and smashing a diving Hawlucha into the camera with a well-placed tail strike that most people used to punctuate a verbal smack down. It was surreal to think that she knew the trainer that had commanded that battle.

Glancing up at Monkey, she could see him throwing Sage in the air for her to splash down into the water and laughing. Didn’t he mention once he had trained some Eevees? She skimmed through the forums, finding two: a Leafeon in the Sinnoh League and a Sylveon in the Kalos League.

That certainly wasn’t what she expected, but then again, she hadn’t thought of him the type to utilize so-called ‘cute’ Pokémon.

Maybe that was why he was so drawn to Sage. Either way, the little fox seemed to make him happy, which is what he needed right now. She tried to not think of how heartbroken Sage was going to be if she ever had to be parted from her best friend.

She tried to focus on the screen again, but the ocean kept soothing her mind and calling her to rest her eyes. Maybe a few minutes before she went to join the two of them wouldn’t hurt.

---

Soft music and a computerized voice speaking in her ear over the steady waves of the ocean was the first thing she heard. She then felt something warm and firm under her temple and a comforting scent and weight around her shoulders. It was the most relaxed she’d ever felt in a long time, and she reluctantly blinked open her eyes.

Monkey was sitting next to her, holding his phone in his lap and watching the screen. It looked like a Porygon2 was hovering next to a girl in a League stadium, cheering out commands in an enthusiastic, digitally synthesized voice while the trainer’s hands danced in frenetic sign language.

Her head was resting on his still-bare shoulder. She sat up abruptly with a sharp inhale.

“Welcome back,” Monkey greeted, shooting her a quick glance before going back to his phone. “Nice nap?”

Tripitaka rubbed her eyes, trying to puzzle together where she was. Sage was curled up in a little indentation of sand that looked like she’d dug it herself, her laptop was closed by her feet, and Monkey’s hoodie was draped over Tripitaka’s shoulders. “How long…?”

“About two and a half hours,” Monkey replied. “You needed it.”

“I think I drooled on you,” Tripitaka mumbled, wiping her mouth and feeling the heat of embarrassment flush her cheeks. “I’m so sorry…”

“I mean, I cried and snotted on your shoulder for a while, so it was your turn to lean on mine. Seems fair, right?”

Tripitaka didn’t want to answer that. She was surprised he was bringing it up at all. “Well… you’re a nice pillow.” She did not mean to say that, but her tiredness betrayed her. “What are you watching?” she asked, desperate to change the subject.

“Bitsy fancam,” Monkey replied as if that explained anything. “She’s perfect.”

“Those are certainly words,” Tripitaka replied, rubbing her neck.

“So during official League battles, the trainers have to have an equal playing field. So hard-of-hearing or non-verbal trainers or whatever have to sign their commands right? There’s also trainers who don’t speak the same language as their opponents, but it wouldn’t be fair to trainers who can’t understand to properly react to those commands,” Monkey explained. “So back in the day, there was an interpreter that would call out the commands, but now that got outsourced to impartial Porygon.”

“Oh, they would be unbiased and no chance for error then,” Tripitaka said. “That makes sense.”

Monkey nodded. “There’s three in rotation now that get sent around to League conferences and gym battles. The first one was a Porygon named Rover, but after battling became more accessible and the program was successful, they had to get more. So Bitsy and Donut were added in and are people love them.”

“Sounds about right,” Tripitaka commented. The Porygon2 in question was copying the deaf trainer’s poses and cheering out the commands with an enthusiasm that mirrored the trainer’s. “So the three of them have a fanbase now?”

“Yeah, especially Bitsy. She doesn’t need to be that excited, but she loves her job. So people started filming her work and it’s really fun to watch her go. There’s thirty minute compilations of ‘Bitsy being a very good girl’ or ‘Rover being done with everything’ or my favorite, ‘Donut in the 2010 Johto League conference being Extra’.”

Tripitaka smiled as she watched Bitsy happily spin around. “Have you ever battled against a trainer that needed an interpreter Porygon?”

He smiled. “I’m on the other side of this stadium, actually. This was a great battle; Meghan trained her team well.”

“Are there any leagues that don’t use Porygon to translate?” Tripitaka asked. From her research, Orre might have something like that, considering their general lax approach to official League rules.

Monkey nodded. “Oh yeah. There are plenty of unofficial conferences for just that purpose. If there’s a concept for a Pokémon battle you can think up, there’s a league for it. There’s a battle style for everybody.”

Tripitaka considered if there would be a battle style she’d excel at, but figured she probably wouldn’t need to wonder about it; she’d gotten her two badges already.

“In fact…” Monkey nudged her with his shoulder. “Now that we’re in Hoenn, you should probably try your hand at doubles. It’s the favored style over here. Orre too, actually.”

She shook her head. “Maybe later. I should probably go do some wildlife observation while I’m here.”

Monkey stood up. “Want me to go with?” Tripitaka was already waving him off.

“I’ve got Echo with me; I’ll be fine. You can hang out with Sage.” In truth, she wouldn’t mind his company, but she was still a bit embarrassed about how she’d fallen asleep on him and the clumsy words that had tumbled out of her mouth afterwards.

He sat back down with an air of reluctance, but shrugged and sent out Infernape, turning his full attention to Sage and his starter. “I’m going to need a big ol’ hole in the sand by the water. Get to work.”

Tripitaka snorted and headed out; not bothering to question why he would need such a thing, but figured she’d find out soon enough. She kept Echo in his Pokéball; he’d expressed an opinion that he liked his alone time inside his ball, the exact opposite of Rén. It was fine by her; it would make Pokémon less wary of her and might be easier to spot or approach since she was by herself.

Pelipper perched on a pier in the distance, running their large beaks through their wings and calling out to each other. She thought for a moment that she saw a large shape in the far distance peeking out of the water and hoped it was a Wailmer, but it was just a parasailer rising above a wave. All things considered, she wasn’t seeing much aside from the expected Wingull; she’d missed the Primarina migration to their breeding grounds by about a month. Not that she would approach them anyway; that was strictly forbidden by conservation efforts.

Someone stepped out from around the corner and faced her directly.

“Where’s your friend?”

Tripitaka’s blood froze. It was Silver. His Absol uttered a low growl beside him.

“Teleport!” Tripitaka screamed, ripping Echo’s Pokéball out of her pocket. “Anywhere!”

“No!” Silver shouted as Echo grabbed her arm while he was forming, the world flickering around Tripitaka. “Mean Look!”

The rocky beach distorted and vanished; the last thing Tripitaka seeing clearly was the crimson red of Absol’s glowing eyes.

Tripitaka’s eyes blinked open, glancing around. She was standing in a forest, right next to a tall willow tree.

“Is this…” Tripitaka looked around, feeling like she knew this place. “Is this your home?”

Echo staggered, nose dripping blood and running into his long whiskers, eyes squeezed shut. Tripitaka braced him so he didn’t fall. “It was the first place I thought of.”

“We’re back in Johto?!” Tripitaka gasped, horror dawning on her.

“Sorry.”

“No, no, don’t apologize,” Tripitaka soothed, trying to keep her thoughts from spiraling. “You did good, we’re safe now. Are you alright?”

Echo winced, easing himself down to the ground and holding his head. “I will be… I’ve never jumped that far.”

Tripitaka had to admit, she didn’t think it was possible for a Pokémon of Echo’s current level, but he seemingly had done the impossible to save her. She reached for a potion or an ether, but wanted to cry in frustration that her bag had been left with Monkey.

Echo squinted at the willow tree. “I don’t remember my hollow being that small.”

“You’ve gotten a lot bigger since you were last here,” Tripitaka reminded him.

“Oh yeah. Right.”

The two sat in silence as Tripitaka tried to figure out what to do now that they were back in Johto. Maybe she could call Monkey and he could call in a favor with the ferry again… Well, first she had to get Echo to a Pokémon Center first. That amount of strain couldn’t be good for him, if his posture and nosebleed was any indication.

“I heard you talking with Monkey. About what happened to him,” Echo finally said. His voice was tight and sounded brittle. “And how you might ask me to read his mind now that I can.”

“I wouldn’t ask you to,” Tripitaka replied. “But I know you were dead set on uncovering his secrets as an Abra. Do you still want to, now that you can?”

“I thought about it,” he replied carefully. “But then I realized that you trust him, and that really is enough for me. I guess evolving gave me some perspective in that I don’t have to know.” He glanced at her, wariness overwriting his exhaustion. “Do you feel like you’re in danger if there’s something else about him you don’t know?”

Tripitaka shook her head. “Nothing can really be worse than what he’s already gone through.” Maybe Echo could help in some way once he was recovered.

Echo stared at his tree hollow. “He’s still dark, but…”

Dark? Oh. Monkey’s psychic signature. “Well, he’s been through a lot…”

Echo shook his head. “I was going to say he’s still dark, but he’s less empty-feeling than when we first met him. I can’t really tell you why, but he’s also brighter,” Echo went on. “Especially when he’s near you. I can take a closer look later if you want.”

“You don’t have to,” Tripitaka assured him. If she were honest, this was the last thing that was on her mind. “For now we just need to get back to everyone… Somehow.”

“Alright then,” Echo said, grabbing Tripitaka’s arm with a small nod. “Let’s go.”

“Echo, no,” Tripitaka argued, pulling away. “You can’t teleport back like that. This jump was already too much.”

“I can do it again,” Echo insisted, tail swishing, although the motion was much more sluggish than normal. “You need to get back. I can do it.”

Tripitaka searched his bloodshot but determined gaze. She wanted to say no, but the selfish part of her wanted him to try. “We’re going to the Pokémon Center as soon as we get back.”

“This may get rocky.” Before Tripitaka could change her mind, he grabbed her arm again and the world flickered again and their surroundings vanished.

The world lurched and the pair fell through the air and landed in a heap of sand with a painful thud. Echo’s eyes rolled back and he collapsed, blood flowing freely from his nose and trickling from his ears. Tripitaka, stomach churning and ears ringing, managed to dig a shaking hand into her pocket and recalled the Kadabra. Her stomach emptied itself into the sand not a moment later. Wiping her mouth, she glanced around again, her vision starting to clear. They were back at the beach, and Silver wasn’t anywhere to be found.

She stumbled her way back to where she last left Monkey, finding Sage and Infernape sitting not too far from a towel with some food scattered on top, Monkey not in sight. A Wingull landed on their towel, and with an urgent chirp from Sage, the towel grabbed the seabird with a triumphant whoop. Monkey appeared from under the towel, clutching the squawking bird in his hands, looking up to notice her.

“Tripitaka! Tripitaka, I caught one!”

“For Lugia’s sake, let it go,” Tripitaka replied in exasperation, stomach uncomfortably lurching again.

Monkey took one glance at her and chucked the Wingull over his shoulder, scrambling out of his sand bunker and hurrying over. “What’s wrong? What happened? You’re paler than that Wingull.”

“Silver’s here,” Tripitaka managed to rasp. “Echo teleported us to Johto and back to get away from him; I’ve got to get him to Nurse Joy, now.”

Monkey looked like he had a thousand questions but put an arm behind her and started shepherding her towards the city. “Let’s go.”

“Leaving me so soon?”

Sage growled and Infernape let out a challenging screech, Absol crouching down and snarling in response. Monkey stood in front of Tripitaka. “Go; we can handle him.”

Tripitaka scooped Sage up in her arms, backing away.

“I think you’ll find this time will be different from our last battle,” Silver said, eyeing them.

Monkey scoffed. “I hesitate to call that a battle.” His face turned sly. “A battle implies both sides have an equal chance of winning. That was a beat down. And I’ll do it again.”

“Just leave us alone,” Tripitaka pleaded, but blanched as Silver shot them both a steely glare and uncapped a bundle of syringes. Without any preamble, he stabbed them all at once into his Pokémon’s shoulder.

Absol’s eyes dilated and it let out a much louder and deeper roar, shaking itself and lunging at Monkey at breakneck speed.

“Holy fuck!” Monkey yelped as Infernape intercepted midair with a punch. Absol didn’t even react, snarling and burying its fangs into Infernape’s golden shoulder pauldron. The metal groaned under the impact and crumpled, Infernape screaming and ripping his arm out of those terrifying, slavering jaws. Tripitaka gasped, rooted in place as Sage whimpered in her arms.

Infernape didn’t let the distorted armor plate stop him as he still managed to launch a flurry of punches, his affected arm noticeably slower; but Absol was far too fast now to reliably hit, and the strikes that did land went seemingly unnoticed.

“Flamethrower!” Monkey yelled, planting himself in front of Tripitaka and glancing frantically around at the sky. “A little help here?” he shouted to the empty air.

Infernape engulfed Absol with a scorching blast right to the face, but it carved a swath right through it with a Psycho Cut and lashed out with its claws faster than Tripitaka could blink. Infernape managed to block some, but took more blows to the torso. Tripitaka wanted to help, but didn’t bear the thought of sending Sage in to get torn apart by the feral beast that was currently ripping into Infernape.

“What are you doing, monk? Run!” Monkey hollered over his shoulder before commanding a Focus Blast.

Tripitaka remained frozen, feeling as if she moved the Absol would see her and then tear her apart. Infernape wouldn’t let that happen. But her limbs still didn’t budge.

Infernape charged an orb of blue qi in his fist and punched it right into Absol’s throat, sending it flying backwards into the sand, but it sprang back up with a snarl, not even slowing down despite the direct strike, swinging the blade on its head down, whistling through the air. Infernape just barely rolled away, the impact from the air alone sending a cascade of sand flying around them.

Despite all of his power and experience, Infernape was losing, and Monkey had the beginnings of looking concerned. Sage called out again in a feeble encouragement, but Infernape wasn’t gaining any ground. Absol, from what little Tripitaka could track, looked no worse for wear, despite taking several blows that would crumple any other Pokémon, and was slowly driving Infernape into the water.

When Infernape’s foot dipped into the churning surf, a magnificent beam of ice crackled through the air above Tripitaka’s head, throwing Absol back and freezing a chunk of ice around its back leg, frozen veins of ice breaking off into the waves lapping the beach.

“Yeah!” Monkey hollered, whipping around to look at the source of the beam, only to have his eyes shift in three instants from excitement to disappointment to confusion. Tripitaka followed his gaze, and saw the tall girl from before sliding down the rocky slope followed by a Golduck.

“Sandy?!” Tripitaka remembered the girl’s name as she realized they hadn’t been saved by Monkey’s Pokémon, but wasn’t about to turn down the help.

Golduck lowered itself into a battle-ready stance, exchanging a nod with Infernape.

Absol glowered at the pair, snarling, before glaring at its leg encased in ice. With minimal strain from its muscles, the chunk of ice shattered and Absol prowled forward, ribbons of saliva dripping onto the sand from its snarling mouth.

Sandy’s brow furrowed in focus as she studied the beast and its trainer, who hadn’t given it any commands the entire time. Judging from its bestial countenance, Absol was probably not in the best state of mind to comprehend them, anyway.

“Psych Up,” she commanded in a loud and stable voice, all previous traces of her timidity gone.

“Oh shit,” Silver seethed as Golduck held out a webbed hand, calm eyes shining as Absol took on the same shine. Golduck closed its eyes, and let out a fierce cry as power that mirrored Absol’s took over its body.

But unlike Absol, Golduck was in complete control of its sudden overwhelming power.

Absol’s focus shifted to the blue duck, crouching low and lunging, preparing what looked like a Night Slash. Golduck reacted faster than Tripitaka could blink, sidestepping and slamming a fist into the beast’s furry flank, and for once, the Absol let out a roar of pain.

“Nice Brick Break!” Monkey cheered. “Infernape, watch the Uber-duck’s back and get strikes in when you can!”

Absol managed to unleash its attack, and Golduck shoved Infernape out of the way, taking the strike on its back with a grunt before pivoting and firing a jet of water right into its face, flinging it back into the ocean with a splash.

Infernape hesitated on the shore, but Golduck charged right into the water, fist pulled back. Absol burst out of the surface with a choking roar, sparks of electricity dancing around its fur.

“Mist, get out of the water!” Sandy barked.

“Infernape, Stone Edge!” Monkey yelled, watching Silver out of the corner of his eyes.

While Golduck was fast, Absol had already charged its attack before Sandy had given her order. The Thunderbolt lit up the entire area and Golduck’s body convulsed from the shock. Infernape slammed his fist into the sand with a screech, sharp spires of rocks erupting from the earth under Absol, flinging it onto the beach where it landed on all fours.

“Mist-” Sandy began while Monkey threw an arm out.

“Hold up. Infernape, use Burning Jealousy!”

Tripitaka didn’t recognize that move, but Infernape didn’t have any sign of confusion as it let out a snarl and flung its arm in a wide arc to unleash a ripple of white-hot flames that engulfed Absol as it passed, leaving angry scorch marks in its fur and burns on its exposed face.

“Oh, nice one,” Sandy complimented, watching Absol stagger back. It looked up and charged with a snarl again, extended claws carving deep slashes into the sand as it advanced. “Mist, you can go ahead and Hydro Pump it again.”

“Infernape, get ready for a Close Combat follow-up,” Monkey ordered.

The command had scarcely left Sandy’s lips before Golduck was reacting, firing its high pressure attack and nailing Absol dead-on. It strained against the onslaught of water for an instant before a familiar red light zapped into its side and collected the monster inside its ball. Silver spared the three of them a furious glare before turning tail and retreating. Sandy instantly gave chase, Golduck sprinting at her side and the three of them disappearing out of view.

Monkey recalled the panting Infernape and seized Tripitaka by the arm as he ran, dragging her in the direction of the Pokémon Center. Tripitaka almost tripped as the spell binding her limbs shattered with his grasp, but he effortlessly held her up, urging her onwards.

“Thought I told you to run?” he asked as he ran, glancing first behind him and then down at her. “Didn’t you hear me?!”

Tripitaka wanted to answer, but couldn’t find her voice. The only thing she could think of was Absol’s savage roar and the horror creeping into the edges of her mind that Echo might very well have killed himself by saving her.

Don’t you worry, don’t you worry child
See, heaven’s got a plan for you
Don’t you worry, don’t you worry now

Chapter Text

The next thing Tripitaka was aware of was Monkey kneeling in front of her.

“What did you say?” she asked, acutely aware of his brown eyes searching hers and uncomfortable at his striking attention.

He didn’t answer, instead reaching up and gently thumbing tears from her cheeks that she didn’t realize she had been shedding.

“I said, they’re not going to judge you for bringing in another one of your Pokémon on the same day,” he answered. “It happens all the time.”

Tripitaka looked around. She was sitting in the main lobby of the still-crowded Pokémon Center. Sage was sitting on the arm of the couch, solely focused on Tripitaka’s face. “I don’t remember coming here.”

Monkey snorted, flopping down next to her and handing her a bottle of water. “Figures. You’re pretty shook up from that Silver guy. The nurse said Echo would be okay after a lot of rest. Infernape will be fine too.”

The image of Echo’s eyes rolled back and limp body made her flinch.

“Hey. We’re all okay. We’re all safe now,” Monkey said, noticing her shrink away. After a thought he pulled off his hoodie and draped it over her shoulders. “I don’t know how Echo did it, but he did. And he’s going to be fine. That’s all that matters. Also drink that; might help settle your stomach some.”

Tripitaka pulled the fabric closer, allowing its warmth to hug her and the familiar scent and closeness calm her. “What does Silver want with you?” she finally managed to whisper, struggling to uncap it with her shaky hands.

He paused. “I have no idea,” he confessed. He took the bottle and opened it for her. “I’ve never seen him before in my life. But I’m sorry you got dragged into all of this.”

Tripitaka shook her head, rinsing her mouth out with some small sips. Being stalked by a psychopath might as well happen to complicate her journey at this point. She almost wanted to sob as she remembered she needed to send some sort of email to the professor for the day but couldn’t imagine stringing words together at the moment. Sage licked her hand, drawing her out of her own thoughts.

“Seriously, what Echo did was incredible,” Monkey mused. “Pokémon can do the impossible for the ones they care about.”

“He just thought of his home first,” Tripitaka said dully. “That’s why he went there.”

She could see Monkey looking at her out of the corner of her eye but was too tired to meet his gaze. “It’s also where he first met you,” Monkey replied. When she didn’t answer, he was quiet for a moment before sighing. “How does teleportation work, anyway?”

Tripitaka could tell what Monkey was doing; he wanted to try and get her mind off of things. It was a transparent attempt, but she let it happen regardless.

“So far we don’t know the exact mechanism,” Tripitaka began. “We’ve developed technology to mimic it, like when Pokémon Centers transport Pokémon to other Pokémon Centers, but it’s not the same as when a Pokémon does it.”

“Like how a Pokéball works, right? Matter into energy or something like that? I never understood it,” Monkey admitted.

Tripitaka nodded. “But on a larger scale. From what I’ve read, teleporters travel through another dimension and subconsciously navigate their way out. The stronger the Pokémon, the further they can travel.”

“How do they know where to go?” Sage asked, cocking her head.

“Teleporters have to memorize the location beforehand,” Monkey said. “Either that or they have to be within eyeshot of their jump point. Although…” he thought for a bit. “Our planet is flying through space time at like a million miles an hour, isn’t it? So how would that work if technically nothing is in the same location?”

Sage stared at him, completely mystified.

Tripitaka shook her head. “They did studies… they took some teleporters and told them to memorize the interior of a specific shipping crate out of a dozen other identical ones. The one they were told to memorize had various markings on the inside and the others were just left blank. The teleporters picked the location of the crate that was in that specific spot, even when the crates were arbitrarily shuffled around. It didn’t matter if the marked crate was in that location or not.”

“So they aren’t going off of visual cues then,” Monkey said. “Actually that makes sense, considering Abra teleport without seeing.”

“Exactly. They also blindfolded several with the same results,” Tripitaka said. “They tried specifying the target crates with different scents or sounds, anything that might cue their memory where the crate was, but they picked the same location every time. It stands to reason that they’re memorizing the actual coordinates of their target in a space-time sense, so they take into account things like planetary movements and stuff.”

“What about if something is in the way?” Sage asked. “What if Echo teleports into a tree?” She blanched. “What if he teleports into me?”

Tripitaka smiled and stroked Sage’s fur. “There have been studies on that as well. Researchers put objects in and around the crates, but the teleporters always accounted for it, either sidestepping the objects or, in one case when they blew up the crate and completely destroyed it while the teleporter was in transit, the teleporter just went back to their original spot. If the jump point is too dangerous or too altered, they just subconsciously know to stop.”

“Yeah, when the volcano on Cinnabar Island erupted all those years back, that disrupted a lot of people,” Monkey commented. “Emergency services on the mainland couldn’t teleport in because the jump point was too messed up.” He glanced at Sage, who looked unconvinced. “Teleporters never reappear into people or Pokémon, even in really crowded areas. They always find the one clear spot to jump to. You’re fine.”

“I’m sure Echo can tell you more about it once he’s better,” Tripitaka soothed. Echo would probably be able to explain it all better anyway, even if he didn’t understand the exact mechanics either. To be fair, researchers still didn’t fully comprehend it either, and Tripitaka understood it less, despite reading the studies until her brain was sore. Those mathematical models and proposed calculations were a tad above her paygrade.

Nurse Joy walked over, handing Monkey a Pokéball. “Infernape is fighting fit again,” she said with a smile.

“Thanks,” Monkey said, flashing a bright grin. “And Echo? How’s he doing?”

Her smile faded some, but still retained its kindness. “After that level of psychic strain he needs lots of rest. We’ll have to keep him for a couple of days, and after that, he shouldn’t exert himself at all.”

“Is he awake?” Tripitaka asked, her heart having long since plummeted to the floor.

“Not yet; I’ll give you a call when he does,” Nurse Joy assured her. “What he did was astonishing. I hope you know how impressive that was.”

“I keep hearing that…” Tripitaka replied. “I’d much rather he didn’t have to in the first place. Is Rén still okay?”

She nodded. “He’ll be fine to release in the morning. You can come pick him up and maybe Echo will be awake for you to visit.” With a quick bow, she left to address a little kid who toddled in holding a Slakoth blowing snot bubbles out of its nose.

Monkey nudged her. “Come on. Let’s go.”

Tripitaka allowed herself to be led by him once again, only this time away from the beach and towards their proposed camp site at the park, which was thankfully much less crowded than the beach by a long shot. Several tents dotted the area, but it seemed that most travelers were opting to sleep under the stars, considering the warm weather. Monkey had advised against it; if Silver was still prowling around it was probably best to be out of sight for the night.  Monkey sat her down and went about setting up a campsite in no time at all with Infernape’s help. Sage stayed by Tripitaka’s side, but watched the two of them with great interest. As much as she wanted to help, the only thing Tripitaka could do was feel tired and empty.

Monkey didn’t seem to care; in fact, when Tripitaka had tried to make herself useful, he firmly turned her down.

“Look, I know teleporting can be rough, but with a jump like that, you need to take it easy,” he told her. “You still look like shit.”

“Thanks…” Tripitaka muttered.

Citing a need for protein, Monkey ordered some ramen for everyone from AgilityEats. Before long, a Swellow deposited their food and zoomed off with a hurried chirp. Monkey was kind enough to ask the restaurant for a tiny pup cup of plain noodles and a bit of meat and egg for Sage. Tripitaka was impressed with Monkey and Infernape’s choice of the spiciest bowls on the menu. She could handle spice but not that much. She figured a fire type would love the heat, although Monkey didn’t have the same excuse.

“Can you please breathe?” she flatly asked Sage, who was chasing her now empty cup around, frantically licking everywhere that her food might have possibly touched. Infernape reached over and pulled a stray noodle off Sage’s face that had adhered to her fur when she dove face-first into her food, holding her empty cup with his foot to keep it still. When she had finally settled down, Infernape picked her up and sat him on his knee to meticulously pick through her fur.

Tripitaka watched, mechanically going through the motions of eating her delicious food. Monkey remained quiet, loudly and obnoxiously slurping his broth and watching videos on his phone at maximum volume, occasionally flicking glances over to her. Had she not been so emotionally drained, she would’ve snapped at him long ago.

“Echo woke up,” Tripitaka said, not really knowing why she had spoken up.

“Did you get a text from the nurse?” Monkey asked.

She shook her head.

Monkey’s eyebrow quirked. “Then how did you know?”

“I don’t know,” she said. “I just… something changed and then went back to how I felt before.”

Tripitaka’s phone buzzed, and she glanced down and saw an update from the Pokémon Center that Echo had indeed woken up briefly and reacted positively before going back to sleep. She showed Monkey, who glanced between it and her before his expression brightened.

“Oh, you’re bonding. Duh.” He went back to inhaling his ramen like that was a perfectly ordinary sentence to say.

“Is that a bad thing?”

Monkey shrugged. “Not a bad or a good thing. Just is. It’s a bit unusual it’s happening so early in your partnership, but it just comes along with being in close proximity to a psychic type. You get on the same brain wavelength, I guess. I had a Metagross I bonded with, but that took a long time and it was just Metagross picking up on some emotions here and there.”

Tripitaka frowned. She’d glossed over a few publications about telepathic connections when reading about psychic types like the Abra line, but it wasn’t widely studied or published. Maybe it was because Echo had spoken to her almost exclusively through telepathy for a while. Yet another thing to ask him when he was better. She sighed, wanting to change the subject.

“Was Metagross… On the boat with you that night?” she ventured.

Monkey waved her off. “It wanted to be released into the wild after the Hoenn League years before all of that. The deal when I caught it as a Beldum was that I make it strong, and then we go our separate ways.”

“It wanted to be released even after you bonded with it?” Tripitaka wondered. “Do you still feel it? The connection, I mean?”

“Nah. That faded a long time ago. And yeah, it wanted to be released, no hard feelings from me or from Metagross. It happens all the time when trainers and Pokémon partner up. Metagross wasn’t the first, either.” Monkey swallowed his boiled egg whole. An uneasy pit formed in Tripitaka’s stomach. What if Sage or Echo wanted to be released after she made it to her internship? She’d have to respect their wishes of course, but what if they decided to part ways? How would she handle it?

Monkey glanced at her. “You’re getting that worried look. It’s a bit far out in the future to even be considering releasing your Pokémon, isn’t it?”

Tripitaka sighed. Of course it was. Her mind was just stuck in worrywart mode lately. She had doubts she’d ever be able to switch it off ever again.

She glanced over near the trees, and saw Sandy from earlier standing there watching them.

“How long have you been standing there?” she called to her. Monkey’s head whipped up and he muttered a ‘what the fuck?’ under his breath.

Sandy picked her way over, hovering at the edge of their little campsite. “I’m sorry I lost him,” she said quietly, not looking at anyone in particular. “He took off and none of my Pokémon can fly.”

“That’s perfectly fine. I can’t thank you enough for stepping in when you did, Sandy,” Tripitaka said. “You’re amazing. So is your Golduck.”

“I’m sorry, who is this?” Monkey asked. “Did you two know each other before that run-in with Silver?”

“Oh, is that his name?” Sandy wondered. “I’ve seen him skulking around a couple of times. He looked like he was waiting for something. Or someone. He was weirdly interested in you two, though.”

“I just helped her out at the Pokémon Center,” Tripitaka told him quickly.

“Huh.” Monkey sat back. “So, what’s your story, Sandy? What are your hopes and dreams? What other Pokémon do you have? Have you won any tournaments?”

Tripitaka and Infernape’s eyes rolled in unison. “That’s a bit rude to ask someone you just met, Monkey,” Tripitaka hissed. “Especially someone who just helped bail us out.”

“All I want right now is to get out of Slateport. There are far too many people here,” Sandy responded without missing a beat. “I hope that I can figure out what’s making everyone be herded here so everything can get back to normal. If anyone could figure it out, it’s you.”

“Why us?” Tripitaka wondered. “You just met us.”

Sandy glanced at Monkey. “Does she not know who you are?”

“Yes, she does. Why do you know who I am?” Monkey demanded.

She looked at him as if he were a toddler. “I never forget a face. Also you have an Infernape. It’s not like those are common around here.”

“Ah.” Monkey looked nervously at Infernape, who shrugged. “Most people kind of look the other way when they see I’m traveling with a monk.”

Sandy looked perplexed at the notion, but nevertheless took two Pokéballs from her belt and released Golduck and a frightening skeletal brown Pokémon with scythes for arms similar to Silver’s Scyther.

“Mist and Edge,” Sandy said, gesturing to them in turn.

Tripitaka immediately started taking pictures of the two of them and Monkey’s eyes brightened. “You have a Kabutops? That’s so cool! I haven’t seen one up close before. How did you find it?”

“I found her while I was exploring in a sewer,” Sandy said simply as if that were a perfectly normal thing to do. Edge glanced at them all with a hunched posture before recalling herself.

“Not very sociable?” Tripitaka asked in sympathy.

Sandy shook her head. “Mist is better at it.” The Golduck was now investigating Sage and Infernape, quietly murmuring greetings while Infernape invited him to spar. “And to answer your questions, I’ve won a lot of local tournaments and placed in the top sixteen at the Hoenn conference the last two years.”

Monkey whistled. “Nice.” Tripitaka was more impressed that Sandy had held her own against Monkey’s uncouth interrogation. “That was a great use of Psych Up back there; that guy didn’t have an answer for the Uber-duck.”

“It really does annoy other trainers trying to set up,” Sandy agreed.

“Speaking of Silver, why didn’t he bring out Scyther like he did before?” Tripitaka wondered, thinking back when she’d first met him.

“Because if he brought any other Pokémon out, that would run the risk of Absol attacking it,” Sandy answered. “That thing was so drugged up to the gills everything looked like a target.”

Monkey asked if Tripitaka knew what Absol was drugged with, and when she shook her head, he nodded. “They’re called X Items. They give a one-time emergency boost of power to a Pokémon. Trainers often keep an X Attack or X Speed on hand to help them get away from or fend off extra powerful wild Pokémon, like a focused adrenaline rush. Only downside is when you use them too much over time it’s pretty damaging to a Pokémon’s health, and if you overdose it, a Pokémon can go feral or get really hurt.”

“So if he had a bunch all at once…” Tripitaka realized.

“Then we can assume he had the dosages calculated down to the last drop to not kill his Pokémon,” Sandy replied. “And he had complete faith in Absol to not turn on him…”

“Or they’ve practiced how to handle being under the influence of an X Item before all this,” Monkey concluded. “He was prepared for this encounter with me.”

“He’s definitely not a normal trainer then,” Sandy mused. “What does he want with you?” she asked Monkey, who shrugged.

“This goes beyond a simple grudge,” Tripitaka said, shaking her head. “I’ll do some digging into Silver later and see what I can find.”

She watched Mist pet Sage, who was already winding around his ankles and purring.

“Where are you guys going?” Sandy asked.

“Orre so this nerd can get to an internship,” Monkey said with a stretch. “We’re trying to find a way there, but I know a guy.”

Sandy went quiet, hands squeezing her thin hoodie wrapped around her waist, looking like she wanted to speak but couldn’t.

“Did you want to come with us?” Tripitaka ventured. Sandy seemed to be an odd one, but had a good heart and was definitely handy in a fight. It would be nice to have another friend to travel with.

Sandy was rapidly nodding before Tripitaka had even finished speaking. “I would like that.”

As she started unrolling her sleeping bag, Monkey nudged Tripitaka.

“Gaxin holds the door open for someone and gets a free boat ride. You hold the door open for someone and you get a lost puppy.”

When the world’s getting hard
I will go to wherever you are
Running blind in the dark
I will go to wherever you are

Wherever you are, that’s where I’ll be

Chapter Text

With a few clicks on her tablet, the Pokémon Center nurse handed Tripitaka Rén’s Pokéball. “You can go to the back room and pick him up. They’re both on the left-hand side.”

Monkey whooped as Tripitaka went through the automatic doors that were normally off-limits to trainers. “Look at your special treatment!” he called as the doors whooshed shut behind her. Tripitaka rolled her eyes at him. The only reason she was allowed to go back there was because staff were still overwhelmed.

The general treatment center was filled with beds of all sizes to accommodate recovering Pokémon of various sizes, the air humming with the soft sounds of various Pokémon voices murmuring to each other or sleeping. She could see a Magmar curled up on a bed with its flaming tail draped over a stirrup hanging from the ceiling to keep it off of the sheets, and nearby was an Azurill nestled into a tiny wicker basket hugging the oversized flotation ball on the end of its tail. A Skarmory with a bandaged wing stared at her as she passed from a makeshift nest on the floor, and Tripitaka felt uncomfortable under its steely gaze, feeling like a trespasser despite having permission to be here.

After a few more beds she heard Echo’s voice and she paused. “So why do you hate Pokéballs so much? You don’t have to walk anywhere and if you get sent out, you get food or a battle. And I thought you liked being alone.”

“Because I need to make sure Tripitaka is staying on schedule,” came Rén’s grumpy-sounding reply. “If I wasn’t out there she would be goofing off and getting sidetracked.”

Echo scoffed. “That’s not true. She’s dedicated to her journey.”

“I thought you weren’t supposed to be reading minds right now,” Rén retorted.

“How did you know what the nurse said?”

“I have ears,” Rén said flatly.

“And I have eyes,” Echo responded. “You’re not telling the truth. So, spill. Pokéballs are cool.”

Rén was quiet. Tripitaka wanted to step in and hurry along to their next destination, but her curiosity was overriding her urgency to keep moving.

“The last time I was in a Pokéball, I was sent out in a place I didn’t know with a person that wasn’t my trainer.” His hoot was reluctant. “I didn’t have a choice, and I wasn’t asked. I was just sent away.”

“Tripitaka wouldn’t do that to you,” Echo finally replied. “She’s good and kind.”

“So is Troy,” Rén said without missing a beat. “And yet, here I am.”

Tripitaka’s heart hurt for the Hoothoot. She thought that Troy had previously caught Rén and just hadn’t used his Pokéball since, but now it sounded like Troy had caught him just before Tripitaka had left the Tower. The monk had wanted to have Rén protect her, but had broken his partner’s trust in the process. Rén had been wrestling with feelings of betrayal and confusion and hurt this entire time while still holding Troy in a place of such esteem in his heart; no wonder he was so angry.

Troy doesn’t make mistakes, Rén had spat at her once.

Maybe this time, he had, but not in the way that Tripitaka had originally thought.

She sighed, feeling guilty. She knew it wasn’t her fault, but she also didn’t know how to help Rén. Her heart froze when she realized that her sigh was probably loud enough to know that Rén could hear.

“Pokémon can learn how to break out of their Pokéballs whenever they want,” Echo said. “I’ll figure it out and teach you so you don’t have to worry about that ever again.”

Rén was silent, and Tripitaka guessed he was choosing to do so because he could tell she was around the corner. She squeezed her eyes shut and walked into view, putting on a neutrally happy smile.

“How are you two feeling?” It did bring a smile to her face to see both of them back to their normal selves, even if Echo still looked tired.

Rén preened his chest feathers that were now back to their prime condition. “Fine.”

Echo flashed her a thumbs up. “I would leave with you, but the nurse said no.”

Tripitaka rolled her eyes. “You’re staying. We’ll have you transferred over as soon as we get to the next Pokémon Center. Until then you just rest; I’ll see you soon. Rén? Ready to go?”

Rén hopped off his perch without a word. Echo waved to him that went unnoticed and he smiled at Tripitaka before laying back and closing his eyes.

Rén wasn’t thrilled about having another person to ignore while traveling, but didn’t object to Sandy’s presence. Sandy had been silently impressed, as most people were when seeing Rén and his unusual size and the way he carried himself. Rén also didn’t care much for Mist and Edge; in fact, he’d barely acknowledged their presence at all.

Sage however managed to introduce herself to Edge before the Kabutops had secluded herself in her Pokéball again. The little fox had trotted right up into Edge’s personal space and chirped a greeting, wagging her tail. Edge had unsurely stepped back, before after some consideration, carefully extending the blunt part of her arm blades, regarding the Eevee curiously. Sage calmly laid a paw on the blade, tail wagging faster as she looked up at Edge with her giant soft eyes, and Edge looked uncomfortable before recalling herself once again. Sage hadn’t looked disappointed at all; instead she darted around Mist excitedly. Once again, she had effortlessly made a friend.

Having a third person in the group wasn’t that much of a disruption as Tripitaka had anticipated, considering that Sandy wasn’t much for conversation at first. However, as the group traveled, Sandy got more and more relaxed. She was still a bit cagey, not knowing how to insert herself into the group dynamic that Monkey and Tripitaka had established, but Tripitaka did her best to include her and catch her up to speed on all the goings-on that had happened on her journey. Monkey had immediately challenged Sandy to a battle and thoroughly thrashed her, but it wasn’t as lopsided as he bragged it would be. Infernape was thrilled that Mist could relatively keep up with him while sparring, and eagerly awaited Edge getting comfortable enough to challenge him as well.

“That Silver guy is really persistent,” Sandy noted as the three of them sat for a break. “I’m surprised he was able to run into you even after coming to Hoenn.”

“Do you think it was a coincidence?” Tripitaka wondered.

Monkey shook his head. “Considering how prepared he was, I don’t think it was. He must’ve followed us, either on the ferry and we didn’t see him, or on a flying type Pokémon. Which also begs the question how he keeps finding us… With all these people around, it would be hard to track anybody.”

“Well… Scyther and Absol are predator Pokémon, aren’t they?” Tripitaka asked. “Can they track people?”

Sandy shook her head. “They’re good, but there’s way better tracker Pokémon out there. Either he’s got one of those he hasn’t shown us in battle yet, or there’s something else going on.”

Tripitaka noticed that Rén, who was listening nearby, looked grumpier than usual. “You okay, Rén?”

He glanced at her before huffing and taking off to fly high above them.

Monkey sat back. “Maybe he’s got some pent up frustration to burn off from being in the Pokémon Center all day,” he commented. “You should look for someone to do a double battle with, like I said before. Engage in the local traditional battling culture a little.”

Sage perked up at the thought. “That sounds fun!”

Tripitaka had doubts that Rén would want to participate, but also noticed that Rén had gotten progressively grouchier as the group spoke about Silver. “That’s the second time Silver has found us and he wasn’t there,” she observed.

“Wasn’t his fault this time either,” Monkey replied. He glanced up. “Well, hopefully there won’t be a third time for him to skip out on.”

After announcing a need to visit the little world champion’s room, Sandy and Tripitaka sat quietly before Sandy glanced up.

“So what’s the deal with you and Monkey? Are you two lovers?”

Tripitaka nearly spat out her water. “What?”

“You two just seem very close,” Sandy replied, tilting her head.

Tripitaka was shaking her head before Sandy was finished speaking, her entire body feeling hot. “No, no, that’s… that’s not accurate.” Sandy leaned back on her hands, waiting. “We’re friends, that’s all, there’s nothing between us like that at all. Feel… free to pursue,” Tripitaka added hastily, although the last words were reluctantly pulled from her mouth. There was no way Monkey felt that way about her, and even if the feeling were mutual (which it surely wasn’t) she couldn’t focus entirely on her internship with a romantic partner. It just wasn’t feasible. That was it.

“Hm.” Sandy pondered for a moment, watching the clouds. “I’m imagining Monkey and I having sex and it is not appealing whatsoever. Imagining you two having sex is much better, I think.”

Tripitaka stood up, looking around for anything to possibly change the subject. “Thank you so much for your input.” At this point she would battle anyone if it meant she could exit this conversation. Luckily, there was a guy that looked to be a little older than her walking by with a few Pokéballs on his belt.

“Did you want a double battle?” Tripitaka called out to him.

He glanced up. “Sure! The kids could use more experience,” he spoke, pulling off two balls and juggling them over his fingers.

Sage sprang out in front of Tripitaka, tail wagging, and before Tripitaka could look around for him, Rén swooped into her field of vision, landing several wingspans away from Sage, looking focused. Sage squealed a greeting to him, which he ignored.

“Ready?” the other trainer asked, introducing himself as Kareem. At Tripitaka’s nod, he tossed out the two Pokéballs, revealing a Growlithe and a Vulpix. Tripitaka considered the situation, smiling as Sage dipped into a play bow to the Growlithe like she had with the one at the farm. The Growlithe just raised a lip at her to expose its fangs. The Vulpix looked much calmer, assessing Sage and Rén, expression giving away nothing. Rén spread his wings, silently staring.

“Growlithe, Ember on Vulpix, now!” Kareem ordered. Tripitaka was caught off guard as the puppy spat some bright orange fireballs at its partner, who didn’t bother to dodge. In fact, the fox leaned into the flames, absorbing them into its ginger fur.

“Rén,” she managed to speak, “Go after the Growlithe with a Tackle!” The owl instantly took off, taking aim and diving.

“What about me?” Sage called.

Ah. Right. Two Pokémon at once. “Sage, you use Swift!”

“Vulpix, Flamethrower Hoothoot! Growlithe, Bite on Eevee!”

“No!” Tripitaka blurted out, Sage launching a battery of stars that bombarded the two fire types, although it was much more spread out to be as effective as it normally was. “Rén, keep Growlithe off of Sage!”

Rén smashed into the puppy with a raspy cry, pecking at its head and ignoring her, fully focused on his target. Vulpix breathed a stream of flames that was much smaller and thinner than Infernape’s, but it still was enough to completely engulf Rén in the fire. Growlithe tore itself away from the flames as Rén swooped upwards, the ends of his feathers singed. Sage braced herself for Growlithe’s charge.

“Sage, Shadow Ball!” Tripitaka yelled. The orange puppy leaped, teeth bared, but Sage was quicker and formed the attack in her mouth and launched it before Growlithe made contact, bursting into its face with its muffled sound.

Kareem looked impressed. “Vulpix, Confuse Ray on Hoothoot! Growlithe, keep on Eevee with Flame Wheel!”

“Q-Quick Attack on Vulpix!” Tripitaka shouted, wanting to get Sage away from Growlithe. “Rén, Zen Headbutt on Growlithe!”

Vulpix tracked Rén and barked as a flash of light emanated from its eyes, but Rén, as high up as he was, didn’t seem to be affected by the disorienting flash, but Sage had also smacked her body into the other fox with a growl, throwing off its aim.

Growlithe charged, flames wreathing its body as it galloped towards Sage, but Rén intercepted, ramming into the puppy with his psychically charged tackle. The puppy sprang up but cringed, the flames dying out. Rén hissed and pressed his Peck attack again, but something about the way Growlithe snarled at Rén gave him pause, the strikes not hitting as hard as Tripitaka expected they would.

“Fire Spin!” Kareem yelled. “Keep that Eevee trapped!”

Tripitaka blanched as Vulpix breathed a stream of flame that whipped into a vortex of fire, Sage trapped in the middle. Sage squealed, trying to leap through, but the flames moved as if they had a mind of their own and kept her pinned in one place, scorching her fur if she got too close.

Tripitaka was really beginning to hate trapping moves. Maybe Rén could fly down the vortex and pull her out…?

“Rén! Help!” Sage shrieked. “Help me!”

“Rén, help out Sage!” Tripitaka commanded, but the owl was focused on taking down his target, battering the puppy with his wings and beak. “Leave Growlithe and go get Sage!”

“Fire Fang, Growlithe! Vulpix, Extrasensory!”

Oh great… “Confusion to break free, then go help Sage!” Tripitaka emphasized, glancing back at Sage, who again called out from the Fire Spin.

Growlithe latched onto Rén’s wing, fangs burning into his feathers, as Vulpix’s eyes glowed, similar to Rén’s when he used Confusion. Rén wrenched his wing free, staring at Vulpix intently with his head cocked. If Tripitaka wasn’t mistaken, the owl almost seemed curious.

Rén’s head jerked back with an unseen force, his talons digging slashes into the ground as his entire body was forced back. Growlithe immediately attacked again, and Rén’s spell was broken as he turned his attention back to the puppy, eyes glowing blue and telekinetically tossing Growlithe back with a yelp.

Kareem shot a quick glance at Sage, noticing the flames were beginning to lose their intensity. “Vulpix, take care of Eevee! Growlithe, Flame Wheel!”

Rén abandoned his physical assault entirely, and instead opted to attack Growlithe with Confusion again and again, letting out hisses of frustration when the puppy kept getting up and charging at him again. Vulpix had sprinted back to Sage, who hopped over the dying remnants of the Fire Spin, eyes wide and braced for anything.

“Sage, Swift!” Tripitaka ordered, figuring Rén could handle himself for a bit. Vulpix’s eyes glowed again as Sage’s golden stars shot towards the other fox, but the stars faltered mid-air and vanished when that strange unseen power hit home, Sage cowering, ears flat to her head. Vulpix paused, and when Sage was staggering, crashed into her with a Quick Attack. Sage flopped on her side, defeated and knocked out. Vulpix nodded to itself, and then returned its attention to its partner and Rén. Tripitaka recalled Sage, disappointed Rén had refused to help his teammate at all.

Rén was still firing off Confusions as fast as he could, hooting in rage as Growlithe had opted to spitting Embers at him, unable to close in. Vulpix darted to them, flames licking the corners of its mouth.

“Rén, look out!” Tripitaka shouted. Rén hesitated, staring at Growlithe, before Growlithe yelped, pawing at its head, legs buckling. Rén puffed up, and looked behind him right as Vulpix unleashed a Flamethrower directly into his face. When the flames finally stopped, Rén teetered, falling to the ground, feathers singed and unconscious.

Kareem recalled the two fire types with cheerful praises, and nodded to Tripitaka, who was fishing some potions out of her bag.

“Good battle,” he said, shouldering his bag.

“Thanks, I guess,” Tripitaka replied, spraying Rén and watching the scorch marks fade.

Kareem studied Rén as he came to. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say Hoothoot taught itself how to use Extrasensory.” He gave Tripitaka a fist bump. “Clever bird.”

As he departed, Tripitaka glanced at Rén. Had he really learned how to use Extrasensory after watching Vulpix use it just once? If that was the case, that’s why he was so focused on attacking Growlithe with Confusion; he was trying to figure it out. She remained silent as she sent Sage out and revived her. Rén glanced at the two of them before huffing and taking off out of sight.

“You did your best,” she informed Sage, who shook herself, any evidence of a battle erased by the potions and Pokémon’s nearly miraculous regenerative abilities. “He really should’ve helped you out more…”

“Not his fault.”

Tripitaka looked over and saw Monkey standing beside Sandy.

“Yeah, yeah, there’s no bad Pokémon, it’s a bad trainer…” Tripitaka muttered.

“No, I mean it’s not his fault. Predator Pokémon tend to get hyper focused on stuff because that’s how they hunt,” Monkey shrugged. “The Hoothoot line is notorious for bonking into windows and street lights because they get tunnel vision on the hunt. It’s fine for single battles but with multiple opponents he needs to be more aware of his surroundings.”

“Thanks, I’ll tell him that the next time we do a double battle, which will be approximately never,” Tripitaka retorted sourly. Even if the explanation made sense, she still had a feeling that Rén was deliberately ignoring orders just to do his own thing because he thought he knew better, as always.

Sandy glanced at Monkey. “For your first double, it wasn’t bad. I had a few notes…”

“That guy used a lot of basic doubles strategy of isolating one Pokémon and then ganging up on the other, activating Vulpix’s Flash Fire ability at the start, having his Intimidate Pokémon go up against a physical attacker, I could go on,” Monkey interrupted. “It’s not that his Pokémon were that much stronger than yours; he just knew how to utilize them better.”

Sandy nodded rapidly. “And that they actually listen to him.”

“Thank you, Sandy,” Tripitaka replied curtly. “I don’t think doubles are for me.”

Monkey leaned back. “You could always try Unovan triples… Unovans insist that everything has to be bigger over there. You have enough teammates for one.”

She did have three Pokémon, it was true. Well… Not presently, at least. Her heart seized at the thought of Echo again. She shook her head.

“Have you tried a mass battle free-for-all?” Sandy asked Monkey. “Edge and I won out of fifty trainers at a special event in Lilycove.”

Monkey whistled. “Nice. I did an Alolan free-for-all with a hundred trainers when they were still building their league. Way more fun than their battle royals, in my most humble opinion.”

Tripitaka was quite finished with all the Pokémon battle talk, but was grateful that Sandy was here to occupy Monkey in that regard since she couldn’t keep up in the same capacity he needed. She dusted herself off. “How far until Mauville City?”

Monkey stretched. “Not terribly far. Probably another day or two.” He glanced at Sandy. “You going to be able to handle all the crowds?”

Sandy threw him a glance. “I can… it just got overwhelming at Slateport because it’s not nearly that bad, even during spring break or summertime. The atmosphere is way different than it is, even during the busy season.”

“Yeah, you mentioned it was like people were being herded here,” Monkey noted.

Sandy went on like she hadn’t heard. “I’ve lived in Hoenn all my life and I’ve never heard of sudden storms like this that divert so many people. Well… except… for Sootopolis.” She looked extremely reluctant to even speak the name of the city. Tripitaka swallowed hard, uncomfortable at even the mention of the disaster of the historic Weather War that happened almost seven years ago that had almost destroyed the entire city. She remembered waking up to the news about it; several monks of the Tower actually traveled to Sootopolis to provide disaster relief. It probably hit different from someone who was a Hoenn native like Sandy.

Sandy looked up at Monkey, awestruck. “You were there. You stopped it.”

Tripitaka blinked. Monkey had never mentioned he’d even been to Sootopolis.

“Eh… Rayquaza stopped it, really,” Monkey said, fidgeting with his hands. Infernape glanced at him with a raised eyebrow. “We just kinda sort of pestered it until it woke up to go do its thing.”

Tripitaka sighed. The history books had failed to mention that Monkey had essentially bothered a dragon god into pacifying two super ancient deities to quell a cataclysm. Wait. If Sandy knew about his presence, then-

“Wait, if you saw me there, then you must’ve there too,” Monkey realized. “I made sure the news didn’t show my face or mention me at all. You saw the whole thing.”

“Sootopolis was my home,” Sandy said, deadly quiet. “That day… was going to be the day I left on my journey. I’d gone with Psyduck to go get my trainer’s license when the rain started pouring. My family all died in the floods and earthquakes. All while I was safe in the Pokémon Center.”

Tripitaka stared at her, and Monkey looked supremely uncomfortable.

Sandy glanced at them blithely. “I think I should’ve waited a while longer to trauma dump like that. I’m sorry.”

“Oh, Sandy,” Tripitaka said, not even knowing where to begin.

Sandy shook her head. “That was a long time ago. I’m strong now. Mist and Edge protect me. There’s no way I’d die in a flood with those two with me.”

“So, what happened after… that?” Monkey asked, looking awkward.

She gave him a quizzical look. “I went on my journey. What else could I do?”

“I mean, there were a bunch of survivor benefits and stuff set up to help people…” Monkey began.

“I didn’t need help or sympathy,” Sandy replied, still puzzled. “It was time for me to go on my journey. I got away from the mess on a boat and just started walking when I reached the mainland. It was simpler when it was just me and Psyduck. Then I met Edge in the sewer a while later and things felt better.”

Monkey and Tripitaka glanced at each other, both equally unsure of what to say.

Sandy fiddled with her messy hair before looking up again with a smile. “But it feels better now that I’m with you two. A lot better.”

Monkey yanked Tripitaka and Sandy into an abrupt, rough hug. “Happy to have everyone onboard the Orphan Train. Shall we embark?”

With a laugh that erased any awkwardness, the three continued on the road.

They is my family
They is my family
They might be crazy, but
They is my family
You can’t get to them unless you get through me
You fuck with them, you fuck with me

Chapter Text

The next few days were fairly uneventful, a welcome change for Tripitaka. She continued to do her wildlife observations and send the email updates to the Professor, Rén continued to ignore her, Sage, inspired by Infernape’s practice battles with Mist and now Edge, practiced all her moves under their watchful eyes, and Sandy had become quite comfortable with everyone. She had even reached the point of the friendly debates with Monkey where they almost constantly talked about everything battle related, oftentimes to the exclusion of Tripitaka, which she didn’t mind, but those discussions often devolved into near shouting matches, which she did mind.

“What kind of strategy is ‘show up, blow up, no further questions’?” Sandy demanded.

Monkey shrugged. “One that worked at the time. No one in the meta was prepared for it.”

They had been discussing an old match in the Kanto League where some guy had come out of nowhere and blown up the entire competition to win the recently instated Doubles League that had been imported from Hoenn. Literally. His entire team knew Explosion. If any opposing Pokémon used Protect, he would switch in his Dusknoir or Gengar to use Imprison to bar the use of that move. The longest of any of his matches was three minutes and twenty-three seconds, and that was simply because the other trainer was a ghost type enthusiast.

“It’s not very sportsmanlike to just cheese the game like that! His Pokémon didn’t even battle, just detonated themselves!”

“Hey, they were happy to do so. If I recall, his Weezing and Electrode were giggling as soon as they got their commands,” Monkey noted. “Why are you so bent out of shape? You could handle that strategy right now. Doesn’t Mist have the ability to put a damper on explosions?”

“No, he has Swift Swim,” Sandy pouted. “So does Edge. But even still, that’s cheap.”

“Explosion is a League approved move,” Tripitaka pointed out wearily, noting this conversation had been going on for far too long.

“Exactly!” Monkey beamed.

Sandy vigorously shook her head. “No trainer should use self-sacrificial moves like that. It’s cruel to the Pokémon.”

Monkey waved her off. “Considering how giddy they were carrying out the battles, they were probably just eager to put on a show. They wanted to win, and that was the strat they came up with. They were willing to do whatever it took. Hell, I’ve had Metagross blow up on people when all else failed.”

“Yeah, when all else failed,” Sandy insisted. “But he used Explosion as his first option, as soon as the battles began!”

“To be fair, I think the Choice Band on his Lickilicky was a bit overkill,” Monkey mused. “But it’s not like he went on to cheese any other Leagues after that. Guy disappeared off the face of the earth after he won. Iconic. Just took the winnings and bailed. No further questions indeed.”

“He ruined the spirit of battling,” Sandy went on. “It may be legal, but it’s not sportsmanlike.”

Monkey paused, pursing his lips. He nodded to himself, and when both Tripitaka and Sandy thought he might possibly concede, he shrugged. “A win is a win.”

“Oh, come ON!” Sandy shouted.

“I said it, a win is a win!” Monkey exclaimed louder.

“Can we please tone this conversation down before we get into a more populated area?” Tripitaka pleaded as Mauville drew closer. “We really don’t need people staring at us.”

“It’s so cheap!” Sandy complained, too fired up to hear Tripitaka.

“It worked!” Monkey shot back.

Tripitaka shook her head, now amused enough that she might as well let them bicker. Even if it sounded vicious to the untrained ear, she could tell both of them were having a great time. If people stared, she could always just deny ever knowing them and go hide in another hotel.

---

While busy, the Pokémon Center at the edge of Mauville City wasn’t nearly as bad as Slateport. Tripitaka only had to wait a few minutes before the nurse was pressing Echo’s Pokéball in her hand.

“Remember to make him take it easy for the next few days,” she reminded her.

“You don’t need to tell me twice,” Tripitaka said, immediately sending Echo out.

As soon as he formed, he suddenly looked awkward. “Hi,” he began.

Tripitaka wrapped her arms around him. “Don’t ever do that again,” she ordered. “Please.”

Echo was still before she felt him gingerly return the gesture, but was silent. “I can’t guarantee that,” he finally said.

Tripitaka opened her mouth to argue but Sage bowled into Echo’s ankles, frantically rubbing her cheek into everywhere she could reach as she scampered up to his shoulders to mash her head into Echo’s.

“I missed you!” she exclaimed. “I missed you so much!”

“It was just a few days,” Echo replied, but captured her squirming body in his hands to hold her out in front of him. “You’ll have to catch me up on everything.”

“We made new friends!” Sage squealed, looking over her shoulder at Sandy. Tripitaka nodded to Echo, deciding to put a pin in that particular conversation for later, and he allowed Sage to lead the way over to Sandy to introduce himself properly. Rén was waiting in line for the call station, and Tripitaka silently joined him, giving him space and not saying anything at first.

Finally she glanced at him briefly. “What do you want to tell him?”

“Why do you care?” he replied. “I don’t want you here.”

Tripitaka glanced at the line quickly forming behind her. “I think we’re going to have to make a joint call, Rén. We can always call again later.”

He huffed, and didn’t reply to any other questions until it was finally their turn. It didn’t escape her that despite making some strides with Rén on the ferry, he was inescapably grouchy and distant with everyone, snapping at anyone who dared to ask him anything if he graced them with his presence. Tripitaka figured it might be due to the fact it was about the time that Hoothoots tended to molt, but had a feeling there was more to it than that. There usually was, but Rén was not the type to divulge what he was thinking.

Troy had barely appeared on screen before Rén was speaking. “I learned a new move. All by myself, too.”

“Good to see you too, my friend,” Troy greeted. He smiled at Tripitaka. “And to you as well, my dear.”

Tripitaka looked at Rén out of the corner of her eye, who looked impatient to speak again. “Yeah, he learned Extrasensory just by watching an opponent use it.”

Troy nodded. “That is quite impressive, Rén. Tell me, how goes the journey?”

“How are you doing, Troy?” Tripitaka blurted out. She couldn’t put a finger on it, maybe it was the lighting or the screen size, but Troy looked off, somehow. Maybe he was fasting, as the monks did every so often. “Have you eaten?”

He chuckled. “I have eaten today, Tripitaka. My days have been restful of late. But please, don’t concern yourself with me, tell me more about your progress.”

Rén squinted at Tripitaka, who informed Troy of where they were at in their travels. “Monkey said he has contacts in this city so he can ask for a transportation solution, but we’re all doing well. We picked up a third in the friend group; she’s great. Oh, and Echo is all better, so he’s back…”

“That is good that he’s with you again. I know your capabilities when it comes to worrying about everything,” Troy said with a smile. “Please give Echo my regards and compliments. Although you should be pleased with yourself to have already forged such a bond that he would be willing to even try doing such a feat for you.”

“I’d rather he didn’t,” Tripitaka muttered. “I don’t need to go through that ever again.”

“Well, you’ll have to forgive me if I’m grateful for his efforts,” Troy said. He paused, stroking his beard. “I know of a nice hotel near your area,” Troy commented to change the subject. “An acquaintance of mine owns and operates it. It’s called the Palawan Lodge, if you’re interested.”

Tripitaka wanted to ask how he would know about a hotel owner in Mauville City when he’d rarely set foot outside of Violet City, much less Johto, but figured he was entitled to his past. She wished that Troy would somehow pick up that Rén was crankier than usual, but also didn’t want to bring anything up that would make his behavior worse once the camera was off.

“Troy! Troy!” Sage squeaked, taking a flying leap onto the desk and skidding into Rén. He hissed at her disruption, half raising his wings and shaking his tail feathers. “I did a double battle with Rén!”

“Did you now?” Troy asked with a bemused smile on his face. He poked at the screen where she kept sniffing and batting at. “Did you enjoy yourself?”

“Yes! Rén didn’t help much, though. Okay, bye!” With that she hopped off the desk and took off like a shot.

Rén had gone still and Tripitaka nervously cleared her throat. “I think she’s come down with a case of the zoomies…”

“What’s this about Rén not helping?” Troy asked, his expression turning uncomfortably stern.

“He… was just overly focused on doing his part in the battle. You know how Hoothoots can be,” Tripitaka tried.

“Tripitaka, be silent for a moment,” Troy interrupted. Tripitaka blinked at his command. He had never once in her life ordered her to be quiet. “Rén, please explain what happened.”

Rén looked, for once, caught off guard. He nibbled at his chest feathers. “I learned a new move in that battle. I got stronger. Aren’t you proud?”

“I am, but not at the cost of abandoning your teammate,” Troy said, his voice uncharacteristically sharp. “Rén, you are a gifted battler and have amazing potential, but it is completely squandered if you do not use your gifts to help others.”

Rén slowly blinked, ear tufts flat, and Tripitaka didn’t know what to say. Troy had never once admonished either of them this harshly, even if to an outsider it was perfectly mild.

Troy closed his eyes before leveling his gaze into Rén’s orange eyes. “You are, at this present moment, the strongest member of Tripitaka’s team, and you have a great power within. But with this strength, it’s your duty to protect others.”

“So that’s what this is all about? Being a glorified babysitter?” Rén spat. “That’s the only reason why I’m here, right? You couldn’t possibly send your favorite hatchling away without a protector, so you kick me out as well.”

Tripitaka froze, trying to be as still as possible to avoid any possible attention.

Rén hissed. “You never asked me. You lied. You sent me away. Was I…” his voice choked. “Was I not good enough for you?”

“It was never about your strength,” Troy replied, expression turning alarmed. “Your strength was never in question. I sent you on this journey to grow with Tripitaka, not to compete with her. Not to grow stronger, but to learn.”

“Maybe I never wanted a lesson! I wanted to be with you!” Rén screeched, wings lashing out at the monitor. Tripitaka’s heart stopped as Troy’s image wavered and glitched for a moment, trying to formulate an explanation to Monkey why she had to take out a loan to replace Pokémon Center property. His image flickered back into focus.

Rén sat, breathing heavily, his surprised eyes wide, but not backing down. Tripitaka was stunned he would even consider doing such a thing to Troy, even if it was through a camera.

“Rén, I-” Troy began, but Rén whipped around and took off, squeezing through an open window. Troy’s entire body sagged, and he looked like he aged a dozen years.

“He… he didn’t mean that,” Tripitaka said, trying desperately to break the tension.

Troy shook his head, the movement slow. “No, he’s… he’s right.” He bowed his head. “Perhaps I did make a mistake after all. It was impulsive and brash of me to do what I did… and even more foolish of me to expect he would forgive me for it.”

“Troy, come on, of course he still loves you,” Tripitaka said urgently. She’d never seen Troy be so unsure, and it terrified her. “He’s just… had a hard time. He’s been doing better, honestly. Ever since I learned Pokéspeech, he’s been a lot more sociable-”

Troy’s expression turned into a weary smile, and he looked up at her. “You don’t have to assuage my feelings, my dear.” His eyes glittered, and he nodded to himself. “I just… wanted you both to be looked after.”

“And he is!” Tripitaka exclaimed. “He… he basically threw himself into the ocean to save Sage’s ball, you remember when I told you that? And… and he made Echo apologize to Sage after making her feel bad, and of course there was that Rattata incident and… well, I’m glad he hasn’t needed to do anything drastic to protect me! I’d rather he didn’t! Not after what Echo pulled… And I’ve been trying to look after him too! I’m trying to give him enough space and stuff, and-”

Troy held up a weathered hand, and she stopped. “I am glad you are both making strides. Truly. I do deserve Rén’s anger, and I won’t have you try and play peacemaker between me and my partner. Now… I have much to think about, so I will bid you a good day, Tripitaka.”

“Okay,” Tripitaka reluctantly replied. “Get some rest,” she called before the screen went blank.

---

The Palawan Lodge was certainly a hotel. Nothing grand and luxurious like the one in Goldenrod City, but not nearly as grimy as the motel the three had slummed in on the road. (Sage had been very kind enough to catch and dispose of every cockroach she could find, or as she called them ‘wall raisins’, staying busy the entire night.) But this hotel was decent. Tiki torches and palm trees lined the boardwalk leading up to the door, with some Alolan flowers along the sides swaying in the breeze, starkly contrasting with a neon vacancy sign.

The main lobby was cluttered with a bunch of knickknacks that were vaguely Alolan-adjacent, although Sandy had commented it seemed like someone had a hoarding problem. No one was at the front desk, but a Salazzle was snoozing in a plush pink donut-shaped bed nearby. The three trainers glanced at each other before Monkey barged forward and slapped the bell on the desk. The Salazzle’s reptilian eye cracked open and stared them down. Tripitaka felt uncomfortable under her gaze. If the poison type was supposed to be the Lodge’s welcoming committee, she wasn’t well suited for it.

“Hi,” Tripitaka began, but Salazzle scuttled off into another room through a small wooden flap in the door without a word.  

“Nice greeter,” Monkey commented. “Does anyone actually work here?”

“I don’t know if this hotel is a good spot,” Sandy murmured. She glanced at Tripitaka, who was uncomfortable at requesting to stay here. “Maybe it’s changed since Troy visited here last.”

A sharp crack sound, muffled through the walls, and the door hastily opened to reveal a large man in a cheap looking Alolan print shirt and khakis hustled in, muttering “yeah, yeah,” behind him. “Slave driver, that Salazzle…”

He shuffled some papers on the desk and glanced up at the three. “Alola and welcome to the Palawan Lodge, where the five-star fun in the sun charms of the Alola region are conveniently within reach at affordable prices to give you the essence of a tropical paradise,” he recited mechanically. “How many rooms am I reserving for you?”

“How many are available?” Monkey asked, drumming his fingers on the desk.

“All,” the man replied in a deadpan voice. Tripitaka leaned over and saw that his name tag read as Pigsy. “You’d have the place to yourself except for maybe at dinner service.”

“Kind of odd…” Sandy murmured. “I wonder why it’s so vacant.”

“The Palawan Lodge is a hidden treasure,” Pigsy replied, not looking like he believed any of his own words for even an instant. “Lots of people miss it.”

“Three rooms then,” Monkey decided. “We might as well enjoy the digs without the rabble. What’s there to do around here?”

“The Palawan Lodge is a Pokémon-friendly oasis for all of your wants and needs for a restful getaway that transforms a mere vacation into an unforgettable odyssey,” Pigsy recited again, handing them each a pamphlet. “Immerse yourself in our sparkling pool, invigorate your senses in our state of the art fitness center, and surrender yourself to bliss in our luxurious spa.” He let out a barely-detectable scoff after each amenity he listed off, which made Tripitaka more uncomfortable. “Dinner service, where we honor the culinary history and flavors of Alola, begins in a couple of hours. Although we are located in the middle of a bunch of good restaurants if what we offer doesn’t do it for you,” he added as an aside with a refreshing honesty Tripitaka appreciated. “It’s fine. Anyway, I put you in our nicest rooms that were the… most recently renovated. If you’ll follow me…”

After effortlessly hoisting all of their bags onto one shoulder, Pigsy led them up the stairs and down a somewhat well-lit hall, adorned with not very well-done paintings of Alola-native flowers that, upon closer inspection, were flaking away from the wall that were in fact concealing some cracks in the plaster. He muttered some curses under his breath as he fiddled with the lock and shoved the door open with his shoulder.

The bedspread was obnoxiously patterned (Sandy commented it reminded her of her grandmother’s house) that mismatched the hideous window curtains, but the room itself was fine. Sage bounced on the queen-sized bed, springing higher than usual. Tripitaka guessed it was because the bed wasn’t very soft, but it would be fine for a night or two. She nodded to Monkey and Sandy, signaling she’d take this one.

“So how many staff you got here? It’s so quiet,” Monkey commented as Pigsy passed Tripitaka a room key. Echo levitated a pillow to examine its underside, whiskers twitching.

“We have three owners and a couple of housekeepers and kitchen staff,” Pigsy shrugged. “But they’re off duty today so it’s mostly me.”

Sandy frowned. “So what does that make you?”

Pigsy hesitated. “I’m an owner,” he said, sounding like a confession. “But only seven percent. Locke is the one in charge with forty-seven percent, and Monica has the rest.”

Tripitaka’s nose crinkled. He certainly didn’t look like a hotel owner, nor did he carry himself like one. She also hadn’t heard of such a lopsided ownership, but if it worked for them, it didn’t need to be an issue for her.

Pigsy passed Sandy and Monkey their keys, indicating their rooms were right next to Tripitaka’s. His phone buzzed, and after glancing at it, began to edge away. “Let me know if there’s anything I can do to make your experience better.”

Sage stared up at Pigsy, tail wagging lazily. She put a polite paw on his shin, chirping for his attention. He glanced down.

“Can I help you?”

“Got any games on your phone?” she asked, tail wagging harder.

“Sage…” Tripitaka groaned. “Please be polite…”

Sage glanced back at Tripitaka, muttering that she was being polite, before turning back to Pigsy and asking again.

He hesitated, a half smile crossing his face. He glanced back up at them. “Cute Eevee. Enjoy your stay.”

As he walked away, Echo huffed. “There’s something strange about him,” he rasped. “I think he’s hiding something.”

“Echo, you know better that it’s rude to read people’s minds without permission,” Tripitaka warned. Echo rolled his eyes at her.

“He can’t be all that bad if he understands Pokémon like you can,” Sage replied, scratching her ear before licking between her outstretched toes.

Tripitaka frowned. “What makes you say that Pigsy understands Pokéspeech?”

“Prolonged eye contact generally signals comprehension,” Sage replied before darting off to investigate under the bed. “Hey, there’s a sock under here!”          

“Sometimes she has the emotional awareness of a strawberry, and then other times she goes and says stuff like that,” Tripitaka chuckled. “It’s like she gains fifty IQ points when she’s not in the throes of the zoomies.”

“Isn’t that what being a kid is all about?” Monkey snickered. He leaned out the door to look in the direction Pigsy had hustled off. “Still… It’s kind of strange to conceal knowing Pokéspeech from other people. There’s nothing bad about it.”

“Why does my room have an entire Wingull in it?” Sandy screeched, crashes and squawking following immediately after.

Monkey’s face lit up. “I like this place!” he declared as he withdrew from Tripitaka’s room to go help Sandy.

Tripitaka sighed, figuring that adding another body to the mix would only make the situation worse, and started to unpack, habitually opening a window for Rén if he wanted to come inside. Echo glanced at Tripitaka.

“I’m going to sleep inside my Pokéball tonight,” he said.

“That’s fine,” Tripitaka replied. “Any particular reason?”

Echo wordlessly flicked a lampshade with his finger, a ring of dust coming loose. He sneezed. “No reason.”

“Understood,” Tripitaka replied, trying to hold in her grimace. She debated whether she should call Pigsy back to have their rooms more thoroughly cleaned, but he had seemed rather harried and figured she’d deal with it herself. She figured she’d entertain herself by researching the online reviews of the Lodge until dinnertime rolled around.

---

“Shower was barely a trickle,” Monkey grumbled as he flopped down next to her in the Lodge’s restaurant. Tripitaka raised an eyebrow. She wasn’t looking forward to seeing if hers even worked…

Infernape rolled his eyes. “He bitches about anything that isn’t a fire hose like Gyarados’ Hydro Pump. Like, enough to peel your skin off, the freak.”

“I hate showers,” Sandy commented. “Too loud. But if you need a pressure washer, Mist could help you out. I sometimes take Water Gun birdie baths in a pinch.”

Tripitaka absently nodded as she examined the mental image of Monkey in his bathing suit or less goading his disgusted Gyarados to just blast him already.

“Oh, and I checked out the fitness center,” Monkey informed her.

“Was it state of the art and cutting edge?” Tripitaka asked dryly.

“If by cutting edge you mean the singular broken elliptical, then yes, absolutely,” Monkey replied with a grin. “And monk – get this – there was not one, but two entire yoga mats in there!”

“Wow,” Tripitaka whistled. “Now that is state of the art.”

Despite Pigsy’s vague dismissal of the Lodge’s restaurant, Tripitaka was looking forward to dinner after nearly all the reviews online had said the food was by far and away the best part about their experience at this place. The group sat at the bar looking right into the spotless kitchen and watched two line cooks work under the command of an imposing woman, a Turtonator dozing in the corner near a brick oven.

Pigsy trotted up to take their order, not offering an explanation as to why he was the waiter in addition to his other duties. Tripitaka couldn’t help but notice that Salazzle was watching them from a dim corner of the restaurant with an eerie, unblinking stare. When Pigsy returned with their food, Monkey nudged him.

“Would you mind telling that overgrown salamander that we don’t need to be supervised so closely?”

Pigsy looked puzzled before following Monkey’s gaze and his expression withered. He made a shooing motion at her, and in response, Salazzle let out an open mouthed hiss before once again scuttling away.

“Does she always do that?” Sandy asked, taking her bowl of poke from Pigsy.

“Lately? Yes,” Pigsy sighed. “She gets a lot of her… personality quirks from her… partner.”

“One of the other owners you mean?” Monkey asked, already halfway through his second skewer of grilled meat and vegetables.

“Monica?” Tripitaka guessed.

Pigsy vigorously shook his head. “No. Locke.” He glanced around swiftly before his phone buzzed. “Let me know if you need anything else,” he finished hastily before hustling away.

“This place is so weird,” Sandy observed, reaching over for some of Tripitaka’s poi.

“The food is good,” Tripitaka replied, scooting the bowl closer to her as she offered a taste on her finger to Sage, who was already nearly finished with her meal. Echo huffed at her and told her to slow down. “It really is the best part about this place.”

Monkey didn’t have any other comment but to start shoveling his bowl of rice into his mouth, Infernape shoving Monkey’s grabbing hand away from his plate. Tripitaka bet that Monkey would have forgotten to use a utensil if she hadn’t nudged one into his hand since he was eating so fast.

“The best canned and frozen food the boss can buy,” a voice said in a sardonic tone next to them.

Tripitaka glanced up to see the woman leading the kitchen leaning on the bar in front of them, one hand on her hip and the other fiddling at the lei around her neck.

“Are you the chef?” Tripitaka asked. She only just realized that the lei around the woman’s neck was actually a Pokémon called Comfey, a gentle little fairy type which collected native flowers on its long and thin vine tail. The Pokémon smiled at her and nestled under the woman’s slightly unkempt hair.

“Monica. Chef and part owner of whatever this place is now,” the woman introduced herself. “This here is Comfey, and back there is my lazy ass partner, Turtonator.”

At the mention of its name, the spiky fire turtle cracked open an eye before huffing and going back to sleep.

Monica turned her attention fully to Tripitaka, her one good eye observing her. “Haven’t seen a Violet City monk in a long time.”

“My dad recommended this place to us, actually. He’s from Sprout Tower,” Tripitaka said, hoping that Monica might mention Troy.

“Pity.” Monica took one of Monkey’s empty plates and shoved it in the direction of the kitchen. Tripitaka blinked at her dismissal. “I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone.”

“But you work here,” Sandy replied, puzzled. “You’re the owner.”

“One of the owners,” Monica corrected. “Locke is the big boss around here and may be in charge of purchasing, but she knows better than to meddle in my kitchen. But ever since that lug Pigsy gave her some of his shares to break the tie between us girls, things have gone downhill.”

Tripitaka frowned. “He seems like he regrets it… If I had to guess, Locke is the one that makes him run around and do everything.”

Comfey chirruped sadly at that. Monica’s mouth pursed. “Very astute of you, little monk.”

Even Monkey paused from his eating for an instant to glance between Monica and Tripitaka before he half shrugged and resumed his feast.

Monica’s gaze didn’t leave Tripitaka, who was starting to feel rather uncomfortable and poked at her food, hoping the conversation would end.

“If you care for cold cereal and dishwasher coffee, the Lodge’s breakfast starts at eight and ends at eight-fifteen,” Monica finally informed them. “But if that’s not to your liking, I’ll fix some malasadas for you to take back to your rooms on the house,” she finished with a wink, walking back into the kitchen.

“Again, very strange, this place,” Sandy mused.

“Food’s good,” Monkey mumbled, licking his plate clean.

“Yes to both,” Tripitaka replied.

Cheers to the thing money can’t buy
Can’t buy what I feel inside
This thing, I can’t deny
Our pretty little paradise

What a beautiful life

Chapter Text

Tears were streaming down her face, matching the pouring rain that was outside of her small shelter. Wet grass clung to her hands, small pebbles digging into her palms as an indescribable emptiness buried her, threatening to overtake her completely. Where was everyone? Why was she so lost?

Arms silently eased around her shoulders, pulling her into a warm solid shape behind her. It didn’t make her tears stop, but at least for now she wasn’t alone.

Tripitaka didn’t want to get up, knowing the headache that was pounding in her head was going to get worse as soon as she peeled back her eyelids. Against her better judgment, she rolled over and squinted at the digital clock on the nightstand to see just how much she’d overslept. 11:36 AM.

Sage, who was tightly curled up next to her neck and softly purring, stretched and yawned. “We couldn’t wake you for breakfast.”

“Yeah, I’ll bet,” Tripitaka muttered, digging through her bag for her painkillers and massaging her forehead. That dream was certainly stranger than usual. The emotions felt a lot more intense than they were normally, even if she couldn’t tell what was happening. Usually the dreams she could actually remember were much clearer in what she could see around her. But at least the group wasn’t set to go anywhere today; they were still hanging out at the Lodge and would depart tomorrow, so her late awakening didn’t matter.

Sage hopped down and stretched again. “Were you dreaming? You don’t do it very often.”

Tripitaka shook her head, still massaging her head and waiting for the pills to kick in. “You dream more than I do. You run in your sleep a lot.”

Sage smiled sweetly up at her, tail wagging. “You almost never move around. You’re nice to cuddle with.”

Smiling a bit at the notion, Tripitaka peeked through the curtains, only to be greeted with a view of the parking lot. “What are the others doing?”

“Echo let Monkey in and he gave me breakfast while I was waiting on you and they all said they were going to go swimming after lunch,” she recited. “Monkey left you one of the things the food lady gave us.”

Tripitaka rustled through the bag, and discovered that Monkey had indeed been gracious enough to leave her a singular malasada. “I thought Echo was sleeping in his ball last night?”

“He did. I let him out so he could get the door when Monkey knocked since I can’t reach,” Sage replied, wagging her tail and miming touching the button on a Pokéball. “He said he was close to figuring how to break out of Pokéballs.”

“As long as he’s taking it easy, good for him,” Tripitaka mused. “Any sign of Rén?” At Sage’s head shake, Tripitaka smiled, finally feeling the edge of her headache start to melt away. “And that’s what I missed on ‘As the Pokéball Turns’. That TV show that Professor Elm’s wife loves, remember?” she explained at Sage’s puzzlement.

“Oh yeah. I never understood what was going on,” Sage replied, scratching her ear. “I just liked to sit on her lap and eat the popcorn.”

“To be honest, I never understood what was going on either,” Tripitaka confessed. “I was just joining her to be polite.”

Sage hopped up onto the bed to sit next to Tripitaka and nudged her head under Tripitaka’s hand. “I liked living with the Professor at his home, but I like traveling with you a lot more.”

Tripitaka had to stop and take a breath from the unprompted matter-of-fact statement that made her heart glow. She rubbed behind Sage’s ears. “I like traveling with you a lot more, too.”

“I’m going to go find Monkey and Sandy!” Sage chirped, hopping off the bed and scratching at the door. “What are you going to do? Want to come with me?”

“I actually need to be responsible and start my laundry,” Tripitaka said with a sigh, following her to open the door. “I’ll catch up with you in a bit. Stay out of mischief.”

“Okay, bye!”

As the pitter patter of Sage’s paws faded, Tripitaka reviewed her words… did she actually like traveling more than being an intern researcher in a lab? Working and researching and being a part of something was her goal of this journey in general. Shouldn’t she love it more than the traveling itself? Pokémon journeys were for kids who didn’t know what they wanted to do with their lives, but she did know what she wanted to do.

But what if being an actual intern wasn’t as fun as this journey was, despite all the mishaps along the way?

Impossible. This journey had to be worth it in the end.

Shaking her head, she collected her clothes and bedding and headed to the laundromat, hoping it was better furnished than the rooms and the fitness center.

---

Despite the door being closed, Tripitaka could hear angry yelling from down the hall. She half debated coming back later, but nevertheless opened the creaking door before she could change her mind.

Pigsy and Monica fell silent as she walked in, both scowling at each other but smoothing out their brows and expressions when Tripitaka tiptoed into the room. Tripitaka mumbled an awkward greeting as she picked a machine at random, but Monica pointed her to one in the corner.

“That one doesn’t eat your money or suck the life out of you,” she informed her curtly.

“Thanks…” Tripitaka replied, pretending that she hadn’t heard anything at all as she went about to start her laundry. Yelling? What yelling? The machines were simply noisy.

“All I’m saying is she wouldn’t want this for you,” Monica said in a quiet, taut voice.

Pigsy let out a slow, controlled breath and leaned close. “Do not play that card with me. Besides,” he snorted to himself. “I’ve already got someone that doesn’t approve of me or anything I do. No need to bring her into this.”

“Have you even talked to him about it?” she asked urgently. “You know something’s got to change. You have friends-”

“Head’s up.”

The door creaked, and the two of them fell silent, as Tripitaka opened her laptop and went through the motions to check her emails, studiously avoiding looking around.

“I’m just saying can you please just ask to use the kitchen before you make something? I have everything where I want it,” Monica said in an exasperated tone. Had Tripitaka not known better, she would have completely believed the argument was about just that.

“What’s all this congregating then?” Tripitaka chanced a look and saw another imposing woman with a severe ponytail and sparkling pink eyeshadow with tacky emerald green and pink leisurewear. Salazzle slithered in afterwards, flicking her tongue.

“As I said Locke,” Monica replied icily, “Your boyfriend needs to ask my permission before he uses my kitchen. You know how I feel about people mucking about and trying to interfere in my turf.”

Pigsy’s eyes were focused on the cheap linoleum floor tiles, not saying anything.

Locke stepped closer to Monica, leaning into her space. Salazzle’s tail slapped the ground to make a sound like the crack of a whip. “And you know how I feel about people not doing as they’re told,” Locke sneered. “Now how would you like it if I make some budget cuts in your area?”

“You wouldn’t dare,” Monica snorted unflinchingly. “My restaurant is the only thing keeping this tumor of a hotel alive.”

“We have a guest,” Pigsy interjected lightly, clearing his throat.

Locke tore her glare away from Monica to level it at Tripitaka, who shrank under the attention. Locke’s expression immediately shifted, a saccharine smile crossing her round cheeks.

“Apologies, miss. I’m afraid I was too busy to greet you when you first arrived,” Locke greeted in a tone that dipped into haughtiness. “Are you enjoying your stay?”

Tripitaka’s eyes darted between the three of them and Salazzle, who ran her tongue over her many teeth. “It’s good. I… really enjoyed dinner last night,” she ventured.

The silence that followed was about as heavy as a Snorlax at a buffet. Salazzle crept forward, claws scraping the linoleum, before Locke spoke again. Salazzle scuttled behind her mistress as if bounced by a rubber band.

“You wouldn’t happen to be from Violet City’s monk tower, would you?” Locke asked, squinting eyes looking Tripitaka up and down.

Tripitaka glanced around. She wasn’t currently wearing the trademark robes or her scarf; just a simple plain undershirt and shorts she wore when all her other clothes were dirty. Maybe Locke saw her on the security cameras. “Uh, yes. One of the monks who lives there told me about this place, actually. How did you know?”

“Lucky guess, treacle. You seem to be the scholarly type.”

“Perhaps we can discuss our business in your office and let the guest have some peace and quiet,” Monica interjected, stepping smoothly in between Locke and Tripitaka. “We do have some budget things to settle, and that’s quite boring for a guest.”

“I suppose so,” Locke replied, leaning a bit to look at Tripitaka again. “Let us know if we can make your already wonderful stay any better.”

“For sure,” Tripitaka replied, trying to keep the unease out of her voice, watching as Pigsy herded the other owners out. Salazzle shot her one last look before being barked at by Locke to follow, and darted off out the door. Pigsy offered an apologetic shrug before closing the door behind them with one last creak.

---

From what Tripitaka had read in the reviews, the pool was hit or miss on its cleanliness. But she wasn’t expecting it to be half full with a localized rainstorm filling it up.

“What’s all this?” Tripitaka asked, watching as Mist and Edge were standing on the pool deck with their arms out, presumably maintaining the Rain Dance that was filling the pool.

“Well, the pool was full of leaves and shit and not even very full, so Echo levitated the junk out and then these two are handling getting it full with actually good water,” Monkey replied, lying on his back and paddling backwards.

“Echo!” Tripitaka scolded, shooting him a look. “You know you should be taking it easy!”

“Leaves are easy,” Echo retorted, tossing Sage’s ball for her to chase. “It’s not like I’m teleporting anywhere like some… pedestrian.”

Tripitaka sighed. If this was Echo’s interpretation of teenage rebellion, she was in good shape. “No more until our next stop, got it?”

Her only answer was a roll of the Kadabra’s eyes.

“He only got a few,” Sandy pointed out. “Mist levitated more. Don’t fret about him too much.”

Monkey interjected. “So? Sleep well? We had to educate Sandy that you weren’t dying.”

“How often does the death sleep happen, anyway?” Sandy asked, swishing her feet around in the water. “Are you sure it’s not some… condition?”

“It’s fine,” Tripitaka emphasized, coming a bit closer. “Everyone sleeps deeply every so often. Why are you using Rain Dance, anyway? Wouldn’t a Hydro Pump be faster?” she asked to change the subject that didn’t center on herself.

“With plaster that old and crumbly? The pool would have a hole punched right through it,” Sandy snorted. “Rain Dance is slower but it gets the job done. That’s probably good enough, you two,” she told her Pokémon, sliding into the water. Mist immediately quacked and executed a perfect dive from where he was standing to join her, and Edge rotated her arms before recalling herself into her ball.

Monkey paddled over to Tripitaka, resting his arms on the deck. “So what have you been up to today, Sleepy? Care to join in?”

Tripitaka shook her head, crouching down and folding her arms. “Just laundry. Overheard the owners arguing about something before I went in. But I really should go do some more research on travel plans…”

“Oh, come on, live a little!” Monkey cajoled, reaching out to playfully nudge her arm. “I told you I have the next steps covered!”

If by the next steps, he said he knew a guy who knew a guy a few towns over who might actually own a boat that was fit for long-distance travel and was waiting for a response from the first one. That wasn’t nearly as concrete of a plan as Tripitaka would’ve liked, but then again, that was Monkey’s style.

Tripitaka hesitated. As much as she wanted to spend time with them, the planning part of her was pulling her away. Monkey seized his chance and surged up to grab onto her arm to pull her in.

“Monkey, no!” Tripitaka squealed, fighting to keep her balance as he hooted for her to jump in. Between the flailing water and her shrieks, the next thing she felt was two small paws colliding into her lower back to fully tip her into the pool. She spluttered, wiping her eyes, and spotted Sage standing on the edge looking very proud of herself, tail wagging and eyes shining, right before she launched herself into Tripitaka’s arms with a noisy splash.

After a few minutes of paddling around and getting wet Sage fur in her mouth, she felt two strong arms snake around her, one across her torso and the other across her shoulders, keeping her still but loose enough that she could pull away if she wanted. Monkey leaned in close to her ear.

“’Sup.”

Tripitaka couldn’t help but chuckle at that. “I’m getting the strangest sense of déjà vu,” Tripitaka murmured, half to herself, allowing Monkey to drag her backwards in the water towards the shallow end.

“I doubt it. I’d definitely remember this,” Monkey replied in an equally low tone, before clearing his throat. “What brought it up?”

“Unnecessary roughness, perhaps?” she chuckled.

“Nah,” Monkey said. “This is just workplace harassment.”

Tripitaka snorted, letting her head fall back onto his shoulder. “Don’t make me call HR on you…”

Monkey glanced over at Echo, who was yawning and lying on his stomach at the edge of the pool, swishing his now soaked rat-thin tail in the water, and at Sage, who was dangling off the end of it with her teeth. “I think they’re preoccupied.”

She was quiet for a bit, and let her head rest on his shoulder, noting it was just as comfortable as last time, although in this instance she had the added sensation of floating in his arms. Although relaxing, she couldn’t help but let her pondering return to planning the next move she was going to make in her journey.

“Hey.” Monkey bumped his head into hers. “I can tell you’re going into your own head again.”

“Sorry,” Tripitaka mumbled, ducking her head. “I just… what if this contact of yours doesn’t work out?”

Monkey made a thoughtful sound.

“Then we keep going and I do something else!” He spun her around and held her by the arms again. “I don’t care what it takes, I’m going to get you to your internship! I’ll…” He searched around for something to say. “I’ll go catch you a Wailord and tie a bunch of floaties to its back and have it carry us there! Yeah!”

“That’s really not practical at all,” Sandy interrupted, gracefully swimming past them.

Tripitaka was still smiling at the imagery of crossing the ocean on a few pool floaties.

“Fine, we can use your Pokémon instead,” Monkey shot back, still holding onto Tripitaka.

“They’re not built for marathon swimming,” Sandy called before fully submerging to let Mist lead her in an underwater ballet.

“I’d still figure something out,” Monkey pouted. “I’m going to get you there.”

The intensity of his stare made Tripitaka’s insides do a flip. All she could do was nod, before reaching up to tuck some strands of Monkey’s hair that had been plastered to his face behind his ear. “Thanks,” she managed to whisper, unable to look him in the eye. “I should probably go check on my laundry,” she blurted out before her chest could burst from whatever it was feeling.

“Carry on then,” Monkey said, directing her to the edge of the pool and boosting her up with barely any effort. “I’ll probably check out the spa in a bit. Gotta inspect all the amenities, after all.”

Tripitaka ducked her head again, and instructed Sage and Echo to stay with Monkey. She did her habitual visual sweep of the area to look for Rén, but once again, he was nowhere to be found. He was probably more reluctant than Tripitaka was to take a breather, but he wasn’t making his opinions known to anyone. Or showing up anywhere, for that matter.

Pigsy, who had been watching them for a while, handed her a faded blue towel that felt as starchy as a potato chip and smelled like bleach. “It’s clean, I promise,” he muttered under his breath. “Unlike the damn pool before your friends stepped in. The pool guy hasn’t come around in a long time, but then again, Locke hasn’t paid him in weeks, so sorry about that.”

“If it’s Locke’s fault, why are you apologizing?” Tripitaka asked, curiosity for the hotel situation overriding her desire to leave well enough alone.

Pigsy blinked at her, and started following her when she turned towards the laundry room. “I guess I’m just used to apologizing on her behalf for everything.”

“That doesn’t sound like a good friend,” Tripitaka replied with a frown. “Why are you still here if you’re unhappy?” She let her voice drop. “Or have to hide that you can understand Pokéspeech?”

Pigsy fully stopped, a flash of alarm creeping into his squinted eyes. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he finally rumbled. “So where are you headed that your friend said he needed to lasso a Wailord?” He asked, holding the door open for her.

“I’m headed for Orre,” Tripitaka shrugged, noting that the clothes from the dryer were still damp. She’d have to ask Infernape to help out when she got back to her room. “The others are along for the journey. I don’t think I’d gotten nearly this far without them,” she added, a feeling of gratitude spreading through her limbs and into her smile. “They’re great friends.”

Pigsy nodded slowly, expression unreadable. “You said you were going to the spa later?” he asked, eyeing her bundle of clearly not dry clothes.

“Y-yes?” Tripitaka replied. She didn’t think that he had been listening to their conversation when Monkey had informed her of his plans.

“I’ll bring some stuff for you guys to use,” Pigsy rumbled, abruptly walking away with clear intention in his steps. If Tripitaka wasn’t gravely mistaken, he almost seemed, for reasons unknown to her, to be remorseful. He couldn’t be feeling that bad about her laundry, right?

---

One quick text later, and Infernape was happily napping on Tripitaka’s bed with her various damp clothing items laid around him and draped over furniture pulled close by. It wasn’t quite as effective as hanging above him, but the job would get done regardless. Echo joined Infernape, meditating instead of napping, with a less-than-polite promise that he wasn’t going to do anything psychic-related (stop worrying about this, Tripitaka).

The ‘luxurious’ spa was a small square of water in the middle of a humid tiled room that smelled of chlorine and sweat. There were some chairs scattered around the edges with some tables, but that appeared to be the extent of the accommodations. Tripitaka wrinkled her nose at the small pool, noting spots of mold growing in the corners. Monkey was nowhere near the pool, probably having come to the same conclusion she had about the general hygiene of the water. She also noted that there was a tray of pampering products and a sliced cucumber, probably thanks to Pigsy.

“He said he raided Locke’s stash for those!” Monkey called over his shoulder to her. “I won’t tell if you won’t.”

“My lips are sealed,” Tripitaka chuckled, walking closer and seeing him holding Sage in his arms.

“So tell me what brings you into my salon today?” Monkey asked Sage, laying her on her back propped up with pillows. He picked up a paw and began to file her nails as Sage’s tail wagged. “Want any color on these little peets or just a mani-pedi?”

“I want them colored like pecha berries,” Sage replied.

“Festive. Fun. A sweet berry for a sweet Eevee… a creative vision indeed,” Monkey mused, moving on to the next paw. “Is this an act of rebellion against your mother? Or your trainer, I guess?”

“No!” Sage exclaimed, tail wagging faster.

“That’s good. I think your mother is pretty… nice,” he added as an afterthought, shooting a quick glance to where Tripitaka was standing. Tripitaka couldn’t help but smile.

“Do you love Tripitaka like you love me?” Sage asked, entire body going still and eyes widening.

Monkey also went still, before shaking a bottle of pink nail polish. “I love her… differently than you,” Monkey replied.

“How?”

“You’re…” Monkey made a thoughtful sound as he gently blew on her nails. “You are my best Eevee friend. And Tripitaka is…” he shot her another quick glance, moving on to another paw. “My best human friend. Yeah.”

Sage glanced at Tripitaka, craning her neck to look at her around Monkey’s shoulder. “Do you love Monkey?”

“Uh…” Tripitaka said, also glancing at Monkey, who kept a neutral gaze, but his eyes were darting around as he focused intently on Sage’s last paw. “Sometimes. When he’s behaving himself.” Sage cocked her head, and Tripitaka smiled to herself. “He is my best human friend. That’s for sure.”

Monkey gently shushed Sage’s giggles, telling her to be still to let him finish. He poked a slice of cucumber into her mouth, dabbing some moisturizer onto Sage’s little nose and rubbing it in, then doing the same to her paw pads. Once finished, he laid two more cucumber slices on her eyes and then swaddled her completely in a towel, leaving only her head and two front paws with their lovely new nail color exposed.

“Anyway, here’s this thing,” Monkey said with a shrug, handing Tripitaka the now sleeping bundle.

“Didn’t know you moonlighted as a Pokémon groomer,” Tripitaka chuckled, swaying on her feet to rock Sage back and forth.

“I’m a man of many talents,” Monkey grinned. “Hey, do you think Sandy will let me play around with her hair? I’ve been dying to mess with it.” He whipped out his phone to text her.

“Good luck with that,” Tripitaka replied. “I believe the extent of her hair care was to have Edge chop off the split ends.”

“Would you stay for the show at least?” Monkey asked, guiding her to a seat that was in perfect view of his makeshift salon office. “Then you gotta get in on this pampering action.”

“Only if Sandy lets you,” Tripitaka agreed, sitting back and waiting for the show to begin.

Lose yourself in our song
Like we’re dancing in a room all alone
I will catch your fears
Make them disappear for you

Chapter Text

“You know? I think I’m actually going to miss the Lodge,” Monkey commented as he flopped down next to Tripitaka at their early lunch. “The food really is great.”

“And the occasional fights between the owners are entertaining,” Sandy added.

Tripitaka had to agree. Although their stay had been restful, she really had to stretch her daily reports to the Professor to include something more than the Wingull that had (somehow) gotten into Sandy’s room again and the Wurmple that Monkey had retrieved from the ceiling of the spa and thrown at her head as soon as she left her room this morning, aside from commenting on the behavior of Locke’s strangely territorial Salazzle, of course.

“Sage, can you please take a break and eat something?” Tripitaka asked the Eevee, who was busily slapping the screen of Monkey’s phone playing the downloaded game that was designed to entertain Pokémon. “Also don’t break Monkey’s phone…”

“It’s okay. I can always grab an OshaBox case. Those things are supposed to be able to take a stomp from a Copperajah,” Monkey said, waving her off. “Besides, she’s helping me cut back on my screen time by taking it upon herself,” he added smugly.

“A few more minutes, Sage. Then eat,” Tripitaka told her, standing up. “I’m going to go finish packing. Keep an eye on her?”

“Of course,” Monkey and Sandy replied in unison.

When she went to stretch her legs in the leaf-strewn courtyard, she saw Rén squaring up with Echo, who was panting and looking a bit worn, and Rén’s eyes were narrowed, standing casually across from him. Tripitaka’s heart stuttered for a second, worried that they were fighting, but Rén’s posture wasn’t hostile in the slightest.

“Didn’t that Infernape teach you how to throw punches better?” Rén scoffed as Echo thrust his fist at him. Rén shifted his weight and the blow glanced off, ruffling his chest feathers. “You’re not hitting hard enough to be very effective, even if you had charged it up.”

“It’s your feathers,” Echo retorted, rotating his shoulder in irritation. “They absorb the force of it.”

Rén shook his head. “That didn’t stop that Haunter back at the gym. You need more power.”

“I’m hitting you as hard as I can!” Echo complained. “Infernape said my form was fine!”

Tripitaka was taken aback. Was Rén coaching Echo? He’d never shown even the slightest bit of interest in training with them, so why now?

Rén hopped forward, wings slightly extended, and studied Echo’s thin arms. “Your species isn’t exactly suited for this kind of battling…”

“Well I can’t exactly do what I’m best at right now, can I?” Echo hissed. “Haunter aren’t exactly suited for punching either, but that didn’t stop it!”

“Then how is it Haunter hits harder than you when it doesn’t even have arms?” Rén asked, cocking his head condescendingly.

Tripitaka chose that moment to step in. “I don’t think it’s a matter of how hard you’re punching, Echo.”

The two Pokémon turned to look at her in eerie tandem. While Echo looked curious, Rén looked annoyed and perhaps a bit flustered.

Tripitaka tried to think back to her physics classes. “Echo, you are correct in that Rén’s feathers distribute the force of the strike out. But Rén is right too; all that force from your punch needs to go somewhere. I don’t think your arms are strong enough to take the recoil.”

“And Haunter don’t have arms to take that force,” Echo reasoned.

Tripitaka thought more. “Well, yes, but if that was the only aspect, then Haunters would be the best boxers out there, but they’re not. It’s got to be something else that it does to make it hit hard.”

“The electricity did that,” Rén pointed out grouchily. “If I recall, most of its electricity was focused near the front of its hand.”

“A focused point,” Tripitaka realized. “You need to find a way to focus the energy of the punch to a smaller area.”

Rén stared at Echo’s spoon. “You can bend this, can’t you?”

“He shouldn’t until-” Tripitaka spoke up.

“He’s fine,” Rén interrupted irritably. To Echo, “Bend it around your fist and hold onto it. Then attack me.”

Tripitaka folded her arms and gave the owl an annoyed look, which he ignored, as Echo focused on his spoon so it curved around his hand. He then took a deep breath and punched Rén with a form that Infernape would praise, colliding with the owl and sending him staggering back.

“Now that… actually kind of hurt,” Rén conceded as Echo’s expression went from surprised to excited, the spoon reverting into its normal shape. “A little.”

“Did you two just invent Kadabra-style brass knuckles?” Tripitaka asked, shaking her head in one part dismay and the other part astonishment. “That would indeed make those punches land harder, for sure.”

“There you go. Now you’re stronger.” Rén shook his tail feathers and scratched his face.

“Echo, I’m glad you figured this out, but probably keep the psychic stuff to a minimum until you get the all-clear from Nurse Joy, okay?” Tripitaka pleaded. Echo’s expression fell slightly.

Rén hissed. “Stop treating him like he’s pathetic and fragile. He’s fine and you’re being overbearing and stupid. As usual.” With another huff he took off, disappearing over the Lodge.

When Echo didn’t immediately refute Rén’s statement, Tripitaka bit her lip. Did Echo really feel that way?

“I’m just as surprised as you that he chose to train with me,” Echo chuckled nervously.

“You can always ask me if you want to do some focused training,” Tripitaka replied. “I just wanted you to keep resting.”

“Actually…” Echo’s tail twitched. “Rén came to me and told me I needed more training.”

Tripitaka’s eyebrows rose nearly to her hairline. “That is unexpected.”

Echo was silent, tugging at his whiskers. “He is right, Tripitaka. You do worry about me too much.”

“I just want to make sure you’re okay, Echo,” Tripitaka said. “After what happened, I-”

“Why are you being so weird about that?” Echo finally asked, an edge to his voice. “Yes, it wasn’t pleasant, but I would do it all again. That’s my job. You haven’t looked at me the same since then, and I don’t like it.”

“It’s not your job to put yourself in danger on my behalf,” Tripitaka protested. “That’s what I’m worried about! I would much rather you not do dangerous things!”

“But it’s my choice,” Echo replied, tail lashing with more force now. “Maybe job wasn’t the right way to put it… If I have the power to save you, then it’s my obligation to do so. That’s all.”

“Because I’m your trainer? I don’t want that! I want you to be safe!”

“Because you’re my friend!” Echo exclaimed. “And I wish you would respect my choice to be your friend, in the way I choose to be there for you.”

Tripitaka went still, tears starting to well up. She shuffled her feet, taking a deep breath and swallowing the lump forming in her throat. “I really was worried about you. And… and I don’t want you to get that badly hurt again. I’m sorry for being a worrywart, Echo. And for making you uncomfortable. It’s just… Whenever I see you, I remember what happened and it scares me all over again.”

Echo’s eyes softened, and he looked regretful. “What happened is over now, and it worked out. You don’t need to keep thinking about it, and we need to move forward. I’m not fragile.”

“I know you’re not,” Tripitaka whispered. Her arms twitched. She wanted to hug him, but remembered he wasn’t much for physical interaction.

Echo seemed to guess what she was looking for and gently pulled her head down so they were touching foreheads, a cloud of comfort and companionship wandering into her mind. It was truly a meeting of minds, as casual as an offered handshake, but encompassing a perfect summary of how both of them were feeling.

“This is how my mother would show affection to me and my littermates.” Echo pulled away and smiled. “I guess it’s because my species can see the future so we don’t dwell on the past like humans do. I understand your worry now, really. But-”

“I understand now,” Tripitaka said, for the first time in several days feeling reconnected with her Pokémon. “At the first Pokémon Center we visit I’ll get you signed off and we can get back to training as much as you want. And I’ll help; Rén has to be put in his place at some point. I’m going to go finish packing. You keep practicing those punches. Deal?”

“Deal.”

---

She was just tucking her laptop into her bag when a brief knock at her door made her ears perk up. Upon opening the door expecting to see Monkey, Pigsy was turning to walk away, holding a tray of water in small, fancy glass bottle with a matching glass cup and a few wrapped candies. He cleared his throat and faced her.

“Room service?” he finally said roughly in a hurried voice. “Complimentary for the visitors on their last day here.”

Tripitaka frowned, opening the door wider to let him in, not only mildly disappointed it was not the person she was expecting, but also wondering why the room service wasn’t a thing while customers were actually staying as opposed to just their last day. He cleared his throat again, setting the tray down on the night stand and pouring the water into the glass for her but not approaching.

She glanced at him. “You don’t seem very happy here,” she finally commented. “Are you okay?”

Pigsy visibly flinched at the question, nudging at the glass on the nightstand.

Tripitaka’s heart went out to him, and despite her desire to just leave it and move on with her schedule, she had to keep asking. “My dad… he’s a monk at Sprout Tower. He said this place used to be really nice. I don’t think that it’s… always been this way. Where you know it could be better.”

“It was better,” Pigsy replied sullenly, tracing a finger over a crack in the wallpaper. “Back when we first started out.”

“So what happened?” she asked, sitting on the edge of the bed but not getting too close. She felt if she moved any nearer, he would spook and run off.

Pigsy was silent, considering, glancing at the door before shifting his weight. “Locke and Monica were butting heads about how to run the place since they were equal partners. I was just a silent partner with a few shares, and I’d help out some here and there. That was the deal. The Lodge was more of their dream that I wanted to support.”

Tripitaka waited, letting him find the rest of his words. She had already guessed as much from what Monica said, but figured Pigsy needed to tell the story himself.

“Eventually…” Pigsy shook his head. “Locke came to me and said it would make everything run smoother if I was the tie breaker and gave her a few of my shares, then all the conflict would stop and it would still be fine. And if I really loved this place, and if I really loved her,” he added begrudgingly, “Then I would do it. So yeah. I sold out. Then Locke took over and things went to shit. It didn’t get better like she said it would.”

He snorted. “And I hate myself for it, for choosing. We were all supposed to be friends-”

“It sounds like Locke took advantage of your feelings and pressured you into it,” Tripitaka interrupted. “That’s not your fault.”

Pigsy gave her a long look. “That’s very kind of you to say, but the way things are around here really is my fault.”

Tripitaka looked down. “Is that why you hide that you can understand Pokéspeech? Because it would make Locke jealous? And it would make things more miserable around here for you?”

He went very still, swallowing hard. He adjusted the tray on the table and didn’t reply.

“Why don’t you leave?” Tripitaka asked him.

He shook his head. “I keep Locke in line. It’s for Monica, really. And if I wasn’t here then the place wouldn’t be taken care of.”

“No offense?” Tripitaka began, “But it’s not that well taken care of anyway. And if we’re being honest, it sounds like Locke is the one keeping you in line, not the other way around.” Tripitaka immediately took a sharp breath, realizing she had been far too harsh on the poor man. “I’m so sorry…”

“No, you’re right,” Pigsy chuckled, squeezing his other arm. “You’re absolutely right. I’ve… Yeah.” He chuckled again. “You kids were a breath of fresh air here. I mean, we also haven’t had that many guests in a long time, but still. It reminds me of how we three were when we were traveling in Alola together. And how different things have turned out from how we dreamed it would be.”

“It’s not too late to start on another dream,” Tripitaka offered. “There have been a few monks at the Tower that took the vows in their forties instead of as kids like most of the rest of them. Maybe your dream is still out there.”

Pigsy looked at her, and then around the room. He chuckled, and grabbed the glass of water, looking at it. “You know what?” He asked, looking at her with a lopsided smile. He tossed the water over his shoulder into the wall with a manic light in his eyes as Tripitaka sat, completely shocked. “This isn’t even fancy water. It’s just straight from the tap. I’m going to go get you a real one for the road. Don’t worry about the mess.”

He scooped up the tray and nearly ran out of the room, leaving Tripitaka looking at the wet splash and wondering what had gotten into him. Sure enough, there was another knock at her door a minute later revealing an ice cold bottle of a fancy brand of water that she never had tasted before. Shaking her head, she hoped Pigsy would find some sort of happiness as she gathered the last of her things and headed downstairs to where Sandy and Monkey were waiting with the Pokémon.

“Ready, nerd?” Monkey asked, Sage hooked over his arm.

“Thank you for staying with us,” Monica said, handing them each a paper bag of what smelled like more malasadas. “You’re all good kids.”

“I’ll take those room keys now,” Locke replied brusquely, snatching them up. She gave Tripitaka a strange look, suspiciously looking at her up and down. “Pigsy should’ve been here to do all this. Where is that oaf, anyway? Pigsy!”

“Right here, Locke,” Pigsy’s voice said behind them.

All of them turned to see Pigsy standing there, now dressed in a much more sensible vest and plain shirt and holding a bag over his shoulder, fist clenched at his hip. Tripitaka could tell he was shaking.

“Would you care to explain?” Locke demanded. Tripitaka was puzzled. Explain what?

Pigsy’s knuckles turned white. “I’m not doing this. I’m done.”

“You don’t mean that,” Locke snorted.

Pigsy was already shaking his head. “Locke, you singlehandedly ruined the Lodge. I’m not here to slap bandages over your mistakes anymore.” He glanced at Tripitaka for a brief instant before staring Locke down once again. “Or do your dirty work.”

“You’re just having an off day. Now drop the act and get back to work. I’ll order you something nice later.” Locke sounded bored, but Tripitaka could see that her face was twitching.

“No!” Pigsy exclaimed. “I’m done, Locke. With all of this. With you.”

Within a split second, Locke’s eyes widened and then narrowed, her face turning nearly purple with rage. “You’re not done until I say you’re done,” Locke seethed. “Princess!” she barked. Monica edged closer to the group and yanked Tripitaka behind her.

The Salazzle obediently skittered next to Locke from around the corner of the building, standing up to her full height and cracking her tail like a whip. Tripitaka flinched, but Pigsy took a deep breath. His fist unclenched, and his thumb tapped a button to reveal a maximized Pokéball in his palm.

“I’ve put this off for far too long,” he muttered, glancing down at it. “And I’m… going to put a stop to all of this.”

Monica’s eye widened, and Comfey squeaked, repeatedly patting Monica’s shoulder in excitement.

“Don’t you dare,” Locke warned, but the Pokémon inside of Pigsy’s Pokéball was already being unleashed, the white light revealing a round Pokémon with stubby arms and a rocky protrusion on its back.

The Alolan Golem turned, and upon looking at Pigsy, its eyes ever so slightly widened, a perplexed expression mixed with hurt flashing across them in an instant.  

“I know,” Pigsy muttered. “But I need you now.”

“Pigsy,” Locke growled as Golem turned to face Princess. “Recall him.”

“No.”

Princess let out another hiss, baring her fangs, flames licking the corners of her mouth. Golem let out a roar, electricity crackling around his fists and along his back.

“Recall him, now.”

“I said no.” Pigsy’s voice was firm. “We can do this the easy way, or the hard way.”

“Are all break-ups settled with Pokémon battles?” Tripitaka whispered to Monkey.

“Only the bad ones,” he replied with a shrug. Meanwhile, Sage was growling and running as fast as she could to join in and help, but Rén, who had at some point landed beside the group, was silently holding onto her tail and not letting her go anywhere.

“Put him in his place!” Locke shouted to Princess, who formed whips of flame and cracked them at Golem, the noise even louder than before as embers scattered everywhere.

Pigsy didn’t say a word before Golem was stomping the ground, spires of splintering rock erupting from the earth directly beneath Princess, flinging her into the air with a shriek. Golem rumbled, the rock on its back trembling and glowing, and he dug his claws into the ground as he took aim before launching the charged rock, nailing Princess dead-on with an electric explosion, sending her sailing out of sight with a pathetic wail.

Locke watched her Pokémon go, and glared at Pigsy. “That was just dumb luck.”

“Luck?!” Monkey shouted. “That Golem sent your Salazzle into low orbit!”

“I… You’re finished. You’re fired, Pigsy,” Locke snarled.

Pigsy shrugged. “Whatever. But I think you’ve got it backwards.” He held up his phone, and Locke went pale. “I’ve transferred enough of my shares so Monica is in charge now.”

“Thank you, Pigsy,” Monica said smoothly, stepping forward. “Locke? You’re fired.”

Locke went even paler, holding up a shaking, jabbing finger at Monica. “You can’t do that, you’ll regret this, both of you. My connections-”

“Turtonator?” Monica called over her shoulder. The fire turtle lumbered forward, heat radiating from its spiky shell. His eyes narrowed, and Golem let out another bellow. “Locke. It’s done. You will leave now.”

With a blast of flame from Turtonator’s mouth licking at her heels, Locke ran off, yelling about how she’d be back, but Pigsy shook his head before looking at Golem and then the three of them.

“Hey, uh, I kind of just got fired, so would it be cool if I came along with you guys?”

Tripitaka blinked before nodding. “I’d be thrilled!”

Sandy and Monkey agreed. “The more the merrier,” Sandy replied.

Monica rolled her eyes. “You’re not fired, you ass. But I do agree that you should go. You need to figure out who you are again, so don’t worry about a thing with the Lodge; I’ll take care of it.”

Sage greeted Golem by batting at the iron particles that composed the Pokémon’s beard, who hadn’t taken his eyes off of Pigsy and his Pokéball. “What changed?” Golem asked, his gruff and yet surprisingly soft voice making Pigsy flinch.

Pigsy’s shoulder jerked into a half shrug. “She kind of made me think about things,” he muttered, gesturing at Tripitaka.

“We need to talk,” Golem informed Pigsy, who sagged and nodded. Monica overheard and herded everyone away, citing a need to pack more snacks. “Will you stay?” Golem asked Tripitaka in a much kinder tone, who went still and nodded. She really didn’t want to be a part of whatever this was.

Golem waited until everyone else had left, and then sighed, suddenly looking defeated. “I didn’t recognize you at first,” he began. “How long has it been?”

Pigsy bit his lip, staring at the Pokéball. “About five years.”

Five years since Golem had been out of his Pokéball?

Tripitaka’s eyes widened as she looked between the two of them, a thousand questions burning, but she didn’t dare speak.

Golem nodded, studying the ground. “Okay.”

Pigsy nudged a rock. “It’s been really shitty.”

Golem glanced at Tripitaka. “She helped you change your mind?”

“Yeah.” Pigsy squeezed the bridge of his nose. “Tripitaka said the things you had been saying all along. I don’t know why I didn’t fucking listen to you, or why she finally made it stick.” Pigsy stifled a sob.

Golem was silent, staring at Pigsy’s Pokéball. “Then she is going to be the holder of my Pokéball for now. I’d rather not go back in there for a while.”

“I understand,” Pigsy said, shoving Golem’s Pokéball into Tripitaka’s hand. “I know sorry won’t cut it, but-”

“I’m not angry about that, Pigsy,” Golem said, voice calm. “You know that time doesn’t really pass for Pokémon in their Pokéballs. But a lot of things have happened to you. And I wish I could have been there for you through it all.”

“I don’t…” Pigsy was shaking his head. “I-”

Golem’s eyes softened. “I chose to be your partner. I’m here for you, in the good times and the bad. You may have been ashamed of Locke and pushed me away, but I wanted to support you even if I didn’t agree with your choices. I’m not angry, but I am sad that you were too ashamed to come to me. I would’ve helped you, you know. With anything. That’s why I’m here.”

Pigsy’s eyes welled up and he nodded quickly, looking far smaller than a man of his stature. Golem moved forward into Pigsy’s space and leaned into him. Pigsy bowed his head until he was resting his forehead on Golem’s.

“I understand,” Golem rumbled. “I really do. But let me be here for you now, brother. Let’s be free together.”

“Yes,” Pigsy managed to rasp, throwing his arms around his partner, tears now running freely down his face. Tripitaka’s throat closed as she watched, and she had to swallow her own tears. “Yes.”

---

“Alright, you guys should be good on food for the next few days at least,” Monica said, patting a bag that she’d left with Pigsy. “Although with that Monkey fellow it might only last a few hours…”

“If you’re lucky!” Monkey yelled, grabbing a rock with Infernape’s help and goading Golem into launching it.

“You sure you want to go with these idiots?” Monica asked Pigsy, raising an eyebrow at Tripitaka, who rolled her eyes and smiled.

“Very sure,” Pigsy replied.

“Well then, take care of yourself and that little monk,” Monica ordered. Comfey let out a sweet note, tail undulating and making the flowers along it shiver. “And one more thing…” Monica added, glancing down at the little fairy. “Take Comfey with you.”

“Really?” Comfey squeaked, looking between Pigsy and Monica in astonishment.

Monica shrugged, tickling behind Comfey’s ear with her index finger. “You’ve always loved that oaf with your entire heart, and I can’t have a Pokémon moping around the Lodge. Now look after him, will you?”

Comfey squealed, nuzzling Monica’s cheek before floating over and wrapping herself around Pigsy’s neck and cooing a greeting. Pigsy’s eyes softened, offering a finger for Comfey to squeeze with her tiny paws.

“Thank you, Monica,” Pigsy murmured, letting his beard brush against Comfey.

Monica’s gaze turned stern, passing him a blue and red Pokéball. “If you even think about having her participate in a battle-”

Pigsy shook his head. “I know. Wasn’t even dreaming of it.”

“Good.” Monica nodded, turning to Tripitaka. “You’re a good kid. You take care of yourself, alright?”

“Thanks for everything, Monica,” Tripitaka said. “Good luck with the Lodge.”

Monica snorted. “Won’t need it with the cancer gone.”

“I’m looking forward to visiting again sometime,” Tripitaka said, shouldering her bag.

“Okay, all aboard the Orphan Train!” Monkey hollered, pointing towards the road. “Oh wait, are you an orphan, Pigsy?”

“Wh-”

“Eh, it doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. Alright gang, onward!”

“What the fuck is wrong with you people?” Pigsy grumbled, no doubt wondering what he had just gotten himself into.

Oh brother, we go deeper than
the ink beneath the skin of our tattoos
Though we don’t share the same blood
You’re my brother and I love you, that’s the truth

Five years, twenty years, come back
It will always be the same

Chapter Text

“Am I not submissive and breedable, Pigsy?” Monkey shouted over his shoulder as he yanked open the door and barreled straight into Tripitaka.

She yelped and stumbled backwards, but Monkey had already seized her by the arms and steadied her before her heart could finish lurching. As soon as he figured she was stable, he stood up, running a hand through his hair, shooting her an abashed look that was masking concern. “Morning. How… much did you hear?”

“Monkey, there are other people in here,” Tripitaka whispered urgently. “The entire Pokémon Center heard you!”

“Eh.” He started walking towards the restrooms, where Tripitaka had been originally heading before almost getting run over. “Better tell them to plug their ears for what I’m about to unleash in there.” At her widened eyes, his gaze darted around. “Singing. I sing in the shower.”

“Suuuuuure,” Pigsy’s voice muttered from the room. Monkey practically scampered off after a rushed pat to Tripitaka’s head. Pigsy leaned on the door frame, looking haggard. Comfey was sleeping soundly on his shoulder, her tail curled loosely around his neck. “He woke me up at 4:30 and asked what I wanted for dinner,” he informed her. “Then he kept me up ever since,” he groused.

“How… did you get on that last topic?” Tripitaka ventured carefully.

Pigsy leveled a glance at her, magnifying the shadows under his eyes. “Tripitaka, I’ve just endured a several hours’ long interrogation while being sleep deprived. How the actual fuck should I know?”

“I’m sorry, Pigsy…” Tripitaka sighed. “He’s just… excitable with new people-”

“Also Monkey’s bag and clothes smell absolutely feral,” he complained. “I am not rooming with him ever again until he does something about that.”

Either he had been drastically neglecting his laundry, or she had just gotten used to Monkey’s particular musk. She shook her head again. “Give him a chance to do some laundry, at least.” He grunted and didn’t reply. “So what is your verdict about his last question?” she asked, barely stifling a snicker.

He rolled his eyes and shut the door. The lock clicked into place. “Ask me when you’re older.”

Tripitaka thought it would be best to wait a while before taking her own shower.

After some consideration, the four of them had decided to backtrack to Mauville to visit the Pokémon Center to get Echo officially cleared. As loath as she was to lose traveling time, she owed it to Echo to not have to wait any longer than he possibly had to. Now they were just waiting for their appointment.

Before she walked back to her room, she could faintly hear Pigsy’s voice through the door. “Hey guys, it’s AlolaInsider with a final update about the Lodge… don’t worry, it’s a good one…”

Echo was wide awake, pacing around the lobby and rolling his spoon in his whiskers before unrolling them, over and over.

“We’ve got a while before the actual appointment,” Tripitaka reminded him, sitting on one of the couches. “Did you want to eat something?”

He shook his head. “I’m just a bit antsy. I feel okay, but also I’m nervous because I haven’t tested much of my abilities yet, you know?”

“Hold off on that until you get cleared, okay?” Tripitaka asked. “And I’m sure it will be just fine. Did you want to go in your Pokéball?”

He hesitated, tugging at his whiskers again. “What if I’m not okay?”

Tripitaka blinked. “Then you’re still going to be my Pokémon, Echo.”

He shook his head again. “I know that…” His statement made her heart lift, but he went on, “But I won’t be as strong as I was… before.”

He got close enough that Tripitaka could reach out and snag his arm. “I know battling is important to you, but if that’s the case, we’ll find other ways for you to do your best. There’s loads of Pokémon that don’t have an affinity for a type of moves that… that their species is known for. Professor Elm told me that there was a case where an Emolga refused to battle with electric type moves.”

Echo still looked doubtful, and realistically, they both knew that he still had some psychic abilities since he was able to levitate some small things and communicate telepathically to her, but she got the feeling he was just nervous about knowing the extent of the damage.

Monkey flopped down next to her, hair still damp. “If that’s the case, I’ll get you a bunch of TMs that are not psychic moves and we’ll practice them until you forget you were a psychic type Pokémon in the first place. Cool?”

Tripitaka shot him a grateful glance, and then back to the sullen Kadabra. Eventually he shrugged, and recalled himself into his Pokéball on her string of beads.

“Thanks for that,” she told him. “I think that’s what he needed to hear.”

He shrugged, stifling a yawn. “Usually Pokémon heal pretty quickly, even for mental strain. Even if he’s not at full strength he just needs time. I’ll keep him distracted.”

“I appreciate that.” She glanced around at the quiet lobby before looking up at him. She absently realized their thighs were touching but didn’t want to pull away, or even to call attention to it. “You know, you really shouldn’t keep Pigsy up like you did. He had a long day yesterday and he’s still settling in.”

“He’ll learn to love me,” Monkey cheerily replied, although his eyes were similarly shadowed like Pigsy’s. “We got to know each other.”

“Monkey, I don’t think he was fully coherent at the end, how could you possibly be getting to know him?” she admonished, although her tone was teasing.

“Just us boys being boys. Couple of dudes being dudes,” Monkey said with a shrug, letting his head roll to look down at her.

Tripitaka knew him well enough to know that he was being evasive. “Are you sure there’s not another reason why you didn’t sleep at all?”

His carefree smile faded, and he shifted in his seat, his leg brushing against hers again. “I… had another nightmare,” he admitted. “Then I got too scared to go back to sleep so I talked to him,” he finished in a mumbled rush.

Tripitaka instantly put down her phone and wrapped her arms around him, and he hesitated for a brief second before returning the hug, hefting a satisfied sigh. She waited until he let his arms relax and she released him, giving his hand a squeeze before it returned to his lap.

“You can always come to me,” she informed him, but he was shaking his head before she had finished speaking.

“You and Sandy need the sleep more than I do,” he muttered. “I’m fine, really.”

“Well…” Tripitaka tried to think of what might make him feel better in the meantime. “I’m still running into dead ends about your missing Pokémon, so I tried to look into Silver.”

“You know it’s funny,” Monkey said as Tripitaka pulled up her notes on her phone. “When I was traveling in Johto as a kid, I kept bumping into a guy named Silver. Red hair, bit of an asshole. Major daddy issues. He thought he was destined to be my rival or something, but he didn’t even participate in the League. Not the same guy as our Silver, though. Huh. Wonder how he’s doing…”

“It’s so strange…” Tripitaka began, “But I can’t find anything on our Silver. I started with League records with a trainer with a Scyther and an Absol registered on their team in recent years, but nothing matched Silver’s profile. I mean, he might not have been a League contestant, but given his skill level and knowing about you, it would make sense he would be in the preliminary listings at the very least.”

“Do you think he’s using an alias?” Monkey wondered.

“It’s possible… I even filtered through hair color and visible tattoos like he has, but nothing. I must have skimmed for hours.”

“Any social media?” Monkey asked, rubbing his eyes with a palm.

Tripitaka shook her head. “Nothing. It’s like he doesn’t exist online.”

Monkey scoffed. “He’s got to be somewhere.”

Tripitaka sighed. “I’ve set up an alert system for when someone local posts about an Absol or Scyther or a tall scary guy with white hair and tattoos, but so far nothing. I’m currently in the process of creating an image search algorithm to scan through trainer ID information and League videos and whatnot that match his description that I can run in the background on my computer, but I’m still researching how to do that. That’s more of a side project, anyway.”

“Wait, you know how to code?” Monkey asked in disbelief.

“Not at the moment,” Tripitaka admitted. “But I took an intro to coding as an elective and there are tutorials online for setting up search algorithms and stuff, so I’ll figure it out.”

Monkey was silent. Tripitaka glanced up and noticed he was staring down at her. “What?”

“Nothing,” he replied, blinking slowly. “You’re just…”

“Not educated enough to be effective yet, sorry,” Tripitaka muttered. “If I could get just one picture of him, maybe I could do a reverse image search; that would be so much faster. I’m still combing through a lot of data. He has to be somewhere. I’ve still got a lot of things to try, but so far it looks as if he’s deliberately deleted his presence.”

Monkey put a hand on hers and pushed her phone down. “If anyone can find a ghost, it’s you,” he assured her. “Just take a break for now. So uh…” he patted her hand before fiddling with his hair. “What was your latest report to the Professor like?”

“Oh, I wrote about my final thoughts about Salazzle. And some about Golem of course,” Tripitaka answered. She launched into explaining the details of her mini essay that she wrote about how there was no such thing as a bad Pokémon, just a bad trainer, and that Locke’s Salazzle, despite behaving horribly, was probably just acting on her trainer’s wishes and didn’t see her actions as a problem. Even then, she also could have been behaving as a Salazzle would in the wild, keeping her reverse harem of Salandit males in line to do her bidding, interpreting Pigsy as a rather large male Salandit and the Lodge as her territory.

She was about to go into what she noted about Golem but noticed that Monkey’s responses had gotten shorter and quieter as she spoke. She glanced over.

Monkey was slouching low in his seat, his tiny snores barely audible. She sighed. Figures he would fall asleep from her info dumping. He was going to have some killer back pain if he stayed that way for too long. Shifting as carefully as she could, she tried to ease him down so he could sleep on his side, but his head and muscled torso were far heavier than she could manage on her own without jostling him awake. Halfway through trying to gently lower him, he snorted and without waking up, burrowed his head into her lap, breathing contentedly before the snores returned.

At the moment, Tripitaka was unsure what to do with this situation. For starters, her jeans were definitely going to have a wet spot on them from his still-damp hair, and secondly, she was going to have to move eventually when it came time for Echo’s appointment. Not to mention he was taking up a lot of space on the couch that should go to other trainers when they started trickling in.

Still…

He looked remarkably peaceful in this position, and she didn’t have it in her to move. She carefully brushed a lock of hair out of his face and smoothed it out, and after a thought, pulled his hand up so it wasn’t dangling off the edge of the couch to avoid the pins and needles when he awoke. She glanced at the clock and then back to Monkey. She could probably get some research done before Echo’s appointment. Propping her arm up on Monkey’s back, she scrolled through her phone with one hand, the other absent-mindedly stroking Monkey’s hair.

---

“He fell asleep while you were talking?” Sandy asked, staring at the pair.

“Guess I was boring,” Tripitaka said, trying to keep her voice low. Monkey had been sleeping soundly for almost an hour and a half.

Sandy tilted her head. “I doubt it. Have you considered that your voice is soothing to him?”

“I think it is,” Sage replied, busily kneading her paws into Tripitaka’s other thigh.

“It’s almost time for Echo, isn’t it?” Sandy noted. “I can take his Pokéball if you want to stay there.”

“No… Echo specifically asked if I’d be there with him,” Tripitaka said with a shake of her head, glancing down at Monkey. “He’ll need to wake up.”

Sage said nothing more and stood on her tiptoes to lick Monkey’s face until he stirred not too long after.

He abruptly sat up and scooted to the far edge of the couch, rubbing his head, face a deep scarlet. Sage hopped onto Tripitaka’s now vacant lap, squeaking when she sat in the damp spot where Monkey’s head had been and sprang off.

“Tripitaka?” Nurse Joy called.

Tripitaka jumped slightly, heart thumping even though this exam wasn’t hers. She released Echo and nodded to him as soon as he formed. The nurse led her to the back room, where Echo hopped up to wait on the table.

“I’m going to let Presto take care of you. She’s more specialized in this than I am,” she informed them with a smile. “She’ll be in shortly.”

With a murmured thanks, the two were left alone, silent. They weren’t waiting long enough to be awkward before the door opened and an Alakazam walked in, the door telekinetically shutting behind it. Tripitaka noted that the Alakazam’s whiskers were shorter than Echo’s, although hers were streaked with gray and her posture was more hunched over with age. She looked into Echo’s eyes, and he looked over her shoulder to Tripitaka.

[Very well,] a feminine voice sounded.

“She can understand Pokéspeech,” Echo said in his raspy voice. “I asked her to be here.”

“That’s fine,” Presto said. “Now hold still so I can take a look at you.”

Psychic doctors were way more efficient than normal ones, Tripitaka noted. They probably covered the entire case history in that initial telepathic greeting. She watched as the elderly Pokémon pointed her spoons at Echo’s head, staring intently and moving them around. Echo matched her gaze, although his eyes were rapidly darting about searching hers.

“What are you doing?” he whispered.

“Psychic scan. I can get more detail than the scanners that Pokémon Centers use, down to the molecular level. I’m looking at how your brain is healing.”

“Can I learn to do that, even as a Kadabra?” he asked her excitedly.

“Give me a minute and I’ll show you the basics, but I’m not done yet,” Presto scolded, although her voice was teasing. “Kids…”

Tripitaka watched in fascination, mentally taking notes. Maybe psychic doctors like this Alakazam were specialists and so they couldn’t be involved in day to day scans.

“I am one of the very few psychic doctors trained for this,” Presto said, answering Tripitaka’s unspoken question. She wondered if Echo could so easily read her thoughts as this Alakazam was… “And no, he cannot.”

Echo stifled a laugh and Tripitaka blushed. Eventually Presto lowered her arms and stepped back.

“Well?” Echo asked, tail twitching, fiddling with his spoon.

“Considering the amount of brain damage you inflicted upon yourself, you’re very lucky,” Presto told him. “You are cleared to go back to normal psychic usage. Can you teleport?”

Echo closed his eyes, and for a moment nothing happened, until the air shimmered around him but he remained in place. His ears sagged slightly, and Tripitaka’s heart sped up, and she felt a bubble of nausea that wasn’t her own.

Presto glanced at her and focused on Echo, who after a moment looked embarrassed and the sick feeling in Tripitaka’s stomach ceased, her racing heart calming. “Sorry,” he muttered to her.

“I figured this would be the case,” Presto sighed. “Again, if this is the extent of the damage, you’re very fortunate.”

“Will I ever get it back?” Echo demanded, eyes wide.

“You could,” she answered carefully. “It could take days or months for that trauma to heal. You need time. Time, meditating, and rest.”

“I’m just glad you’re okay,” Tripitaka breathed.

He shook his head, still in disbelief. “It’s like if you lost the ability to walk. Teleporting is part of what a Kadabra does… My life is over,” he said miserably.

Presto bopped him on the head with her spoon with a dull smack. “I’m here to tell you that humans lose the ability to walk all the time and their lives are very much not over,” she informed him tartly. “Not to minimize your situation or anything, but please have some perspective.”

“We have a Comfey with us,” Tripitaka remembered. “Could she help?”

The Alakazam shrugged. “Couldn’t hurt. But a lot of this comes down to time and letting your brain heal on its own.”

Echo still looked stricken, and Presto’s no-nonsense expression softened. “Alright, let me show you how I do a psychic scan and you can practice later.”

Several minutes later and with some more suggestions from Presto, the two were walking out into the lobby to meet everyone else. Sage wriggled out of Sandy’s grasp to go greet Echo, purring with excitement, although he didn’t return her enthusiasm.

“Good news?” Monkey asked, turning his attention from prodding at Comfey hanging out on Pigsy’s shoulder.
Upon noticing that Echo didn’t feel like sharing, Tripitaka gave them a summary of the evaluation.
Comfey let out a sympathetic chirp, floating over to put her paws on Echo’s head, probably to send healing energy into him, humming as Echo squeezed his eyes shut.

“Don’t force it,” Monkey told Echo. “Just let it happen on its own. It’ll be okay, bud.” 

Sandy stepped forward. “If you want, Mist and Edge can help train with you to be more speedy.”
Echo nodded emptily, recalling himself without another word.

Pigsy glanced at them. “I don’t think that’s what he needed at the moment. Let’s just give him space for now and just meet him where he is, at his own pace.” Tripitaka had to admire his effortless reading of the situation, despite being so new to the group. Comfey returned to Pigsy’s shoulder and trilled something to him only Pigsy could hear, and he nodded to her. “Yeah, just don’t crowd him, alright?”

Golem uncurled from his spot right outside the Pokémon Center, stretching and yawning. Pigsy gave him a summary of what happened, and he nodded, the two of them sharing the same thoughtful expression. Golem had opted to sleep under the stars last night, which made sense considering he probably was still shaking off his confinement.

“Do you want to walk with us or go in your Pokéball?” Tripitaka asked. Golem waved her off.

“I’d rather stretch my legs.”

Sandy and Monkey looked puzzled as to why Tripitaka was the one asking instead of Pigsy, but didn’t question it. At Monkey’s suggestion, the group was heading for Petalburg, where Monkey’s friend lived near the sea. His sailor friend still hadn’t called back, but Monkey said sometimes reception was poor around there and that the sailor did check his messages frequently enough to not worry about it. His logic was that by the time they got to Petalburg, the sailor might be back home and would give them a call or point them in a new direction.

“So were your followers disappointed you were not going to have any new updates on the Lodge?” Sandy asked Pigsy. At his furrowed gaze, she shrugged. “I overheard you streaming. Plus it’s not that difficult to figure out who AlolanInsider is.”

Pigsy grunted. “So much for anonymity. No, they were all happy for me. I’ve got a great community.”

“Do you think Locke is actually going to go quietly into the night?” Monkey wondered, throwing Sage’s ball hard enough for it to vanish out of sight.

“If she tries anything, I still have some tricks up my sleeve I’ve been holding in reserve,” Pigsy grumbled. “I’ll turn her in to law enforcement because she has definitely been doing illegal stuff. But I doubt she’ll do anything, especially after the thrashing we gave her.”

“On multiple levels, too,” Golem chuckled. He glanced up at Pigsy, who was tickling Comfey’s cheek. “So what have I missed on As the Pokéball Turns?”

Pigsy’s face fell, but quickly arranged it so he appeared he was lost in thought. “It’s… a lot,” he admitted.

Golem shook his head. “Just give me the basics.”

“Poppy is back from the dead,” Pigsy began, rubbing his beard.

“Again?!” Golem grunted. “I do not like her. And her hair.”

“She went brunette.”

“Ew.”

Sandy, Monkey, and Tripitaka exchanged glances, but let Pigsy continue.

“Perla and Jasper are long lost siblings. They also set a house on fire, but don’t worry about it.”

“Figures.”

“And Yancy got involved with the mob for an arc, don’t worry about it, and Pedro went blind for a bit from an accident and Maurice took the opportunity to sleep with him and pretend it wasn’t him.”

“But what about Pedro’s husband?” Golem demanded.

“Well…” Pigsy shrugged. “Oh, and Sakura’s father was actually a Zoroark in disguise all this time.”

“Where’s her actual dad?”

“Unclear. They might address it later; it only just happened last episode.”

“I might have to catch up after all,” Golem mused. “How long do you think it’ll take me to catch up on five years?”

“Five years?” Sandy repeated sharply, stopping in her tracks. She looked between Golem and Pigsy. “What does he mean, five years? Five years as in he’s been locked away for that long and that’s why Tripitaka is holding his Pokéball?”

Pigsy just nodded silently, eyes downcast. Comfey’s eyes were sad, her flowers rustling.

“How?” Sandy demanded. “How could that possibly happen? I thought he was your partner!”

Golem looked like he wanted to speak, but instead looked to Pigsy.

“First it was a day,” Pigsy hesitated. “Then every other day. Then a week. Three weeks. Two months.” He sighed. “Then five years.”

Sandy’s eyes narrowed. “That’s abuse.” She looked between Monkey and Tripitaka wildly, stabbing a finger at Pigsy. “We’re traveling with a Pokémon abuser.”

“Sandy, it’s a bit more complicated than you’d think,” Tripitaka tried. It wasn’t her place to tell Pigsy’s story, but he wasn’t making any indication he would attempt to defend himself or his actions. 

Monkey’s expression had darkened at Pigsy’s explanation, but listened to Tripitaka. “The law is… kind of vague on that sort of thing,” he offered, glancing at the two girls. “No time has technically passed for Golem. It’s frowned upon but it’s not overtly illegal like those that beat or starve their Pokémon.”

“You knew!” Sandy leveled her glare at Tripitaka, who tried to not flinch. “You knew and you still trust him?”

“Yes, and obviously Golem is still working on trusting him again,” Tripitaka replied after a pause.

“I asked her to hold onto my Pokéball,” Golem interjected. “If you’re so concerned about my wellbeing, I can speak for myself.”

“Well I don’t trust him,” Sandy growled. “Anyone who locks their Pokémon away is nothing short of a coward.”

Pigsy watched her storm off ahead and sighed. “That I am.” Comfey nuzzled him, but he gently picked her up and draped her around Golem instead.

Tripitaka sighed, watching Sandy. Sandy was angry on Golem’s behalf and fuming at Tripitaka for not disclosing that information, but Tripitaka knew she wouldn’t abandon the group.

“She didn’t have anyone growing up after Sootopolis,” she finally explained to Pigsy, who was still motionless. “I think she’s a bit more sensitive about Pokémon welfare because Mist and Edge were all she had for a long time.”

Pigsy adjusted his backpack. “I appreciate you trying to help, but if it’s going to drive a rift between you three, I can make my own way.”

Golem and Comfey did not appear to appreciate that notion, but Monkey shook his head. “She’ll come around, just give her time.”

“I can tell you’re a good man, Pigsy,” Tripitaka assured him. “You’ve just had a hard time. I have a good feeling about you.”

“And that’s worth a lot, coming from Tripitaka,” Monkey added, squeezing her shoulder and meeting her eyes with a confidence that gave her pause. “I trust her.”

Pigsy smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes and faded quickly as he started walking after Sandy.

While the humans didn’t speak much for the next hour or so, the Pokémon made up for it by being lively. Tripitaka had let Echo out to get a sense for how he was feeling, but he didn’t want to dwell on anything remotely related to this morning. Golem introduced himself again, and Echo had stayed by his side as Golem gave him pointers on how to focus his Thunder Punches better, instinctively knowing how to keep Echo’s mind focused on something else other than what he was temporarily lacking.

Comfey had taken a shine to Sage, as seemingly everyone and everything on the planet did, and the two were now engaged in a merry game of chase, Infernape eventually joining in. Tripitaka watched as Rén circled overhead.

“Do you think he wants to evolve?” she asked, watching him.

Monkey didn’t answer at first, taking her elbow and steering her out of the way as Sage and Infernape careened past them. “You can always ask him yourself. But he’s strong enough that if he wanted to evolve, he probably could have by now.”

“Locke was the one I traded Graveler to when he decided he wanted to evolve,” Pigsy spoke up. “Monica didn’t take it well when Locke joked that she was going to wander off with him and not trade him back.” He shook his head. “I hated that I didn’t stand up for either of us at the time.”

“Well we don’t joke about that here. Except for this one,” Monkey snorted, jabbing a finger at Tripitaka. “She offered to give me Sage multiple times insisting she’d be happier with me.” 

Pigsy raised an eyebrow. “I highly doubt that.”

“Exactly,” Monkey sniffed, adjusting Tripitaka’s scarf for her and smoothing it out on her shoulder. “She’s a great trainer.” Tripitaka looked away, pretending to be looking around to see where her Pokémon were.

When the group came upon a restaurant, Monkey had loudly demanded to get food, and Pigsy had agreed, complaining about how his legs needed a break. Pokémon were unfortunately not allowed inside the cramped interior, and so those that didn’t want to wait outside were recalled. As they were waiting, Pigsy opened a notes application on his phone.

“Right, so does anyone have any food allergies or stuff I should know about?”

Monkey and Tripitaka shook their heads, and Sandy wrinkled her nose. She had chosen to sit as far from Pigsy as physically possible.

“No, of course not.”

“Makes my job easier then,” Pigsy hummed to himself. “Any foods you don’t like?”

“I hate pineapple,” Sandy groused. “They make my entire face and throat itch.”

Pigsy slowly blinked at her statement and looked like he wanted to say something, but just wrote it down. “Okay then.”

“Why are you asking?” Sandy asked suspiciously. Tripitaka tried to not roll her eyes, but Pigsy answered without missing a beat.

“Because you idiots don’t know shit about cooking.”

“Very true,” Monkey agreed. He stood up. “If the waiter comes back, grab me another drink. I’m gonna go do cocaine in the bathroom.”

Pigsy watched Monkey wander off, looking remarkably indifferent to the statement. He seemed to be adjusting to Monkey’s level of chaos quite nicely. “That is a very creative interpretation of the phrase ‘to powder one’s nose…’”

“Should we be worried?” Sandy wondered, glancing after him. “Is he actually doing cocaine?”

Tripitaka didn’t look up from her phone, still researching. “We’ll know in a few minutes.”

“Do you think Monkey knows the actual meaning of that phrase?” Sandy asked after a minute of quiet.

“Probably not,” Pigsy and Tripitaka answered in unison.

“Even if he did, he probably likes his take better,” Tripitaka continued, propping her cheek on her fist.

“Aside from a possible drug addiction, any other health conditions I should know about?” Pigsy asked.

“Yeah, sometimes Tripitaka dies at night. We can’t wake her up,” Sandy said.

“I’m just dreaming,” Tripitaka muttered. “It doesn’t even happen that often.”

“Really?” Pigsy gave her a look that made Tripitaka feel like she was missing something. “Does it hurt?”

“Yeah.” Pigsy grunted in acknowledgment and didn’t comment further. “It’s nothing. I just need water and painkillers and it’s fine.”

She glimpsed Monkey prowling back and hating to be the center of any sort of scrutiny, abruptly stood up, the chair almost knocking back. “I saw they had a phone booth; I’m going to call Troy.”

Even though the restaurant was relatively noisy, the alcove that the phone booth was tucked in was not. Tripitaka waited until a tween got off the phone with their parents and slid into the booth, dialing Troy’s number. He answered almost immediately, looking relieved to see her face.

“Tripitaka! How goes it?”

“We’ve picked up another person traveling with us,” Tripitaka said with a smile. “He actually worked at the Palawan Lodge.”

“Ah, so you did stop in! I’m glad you found some rest, and a new companion,” Troy said, smiling. Tripitaka caught him up on everything that had happened that wasn’t included in her update emails, and also emphasized that Rén had seemingly taken a more active role with the team, even if he wasn’t overt about it.

“It seems he’s taken to heart what I’ve said,” Troy mused, stroking his chin. “I still think I was too harsh on him.”

Tripitaka didn’t want to confirm or deny anything. It still felt like a private matter that she was an unfortunate third party to.

“What are your next steps?” Troy finally asked instead, turning his full attention to her.

“Monkey has a friend near Petalburg that has a boat,” Tripitaka said, with a half-smile, the stress of the uncertainty making her anxiety spike and her mood plummet. “But Monkey offered to lasso a Wailord for me as a last resort.”

Troy smiled, glancing down and almost invisibly nodding to himself before nodding at her. “I was wary of that fellow at first. But this Monkey seems to be a good man. I’m glad you found each other.”

Tripitaka smiled, rubbing the back of her neck and wondering why her cheeks were warming. “Sometimes I wonder if I’ll be able to do a good job if I even get to this internship,” she chuckled, mostly to herself. “No one ever told me actually going on a journey would be so hard.”

Troy had a knowing look on his face, and his compassion emanated from the screen. “I have no doubt you will succeed, Tripitaka. Do you know why I am so certain?”

Tripitaka shrugged. “Because you’ve known me my whole life and believe in me?”

He nodded. “Well, yes of course, but also because you get it. A lot of young people your age have dreams and aspirations, but lose sight of what such an endeavor fully takes. You understand the work, the effort, the persistence of what chasing a dream actually means on a day to day basis. You have that extra spark within that you can not only dream big, but see it through to the end.”

He sat back and Tripitaka tried to surreptitiously wipe her eyes on her sleeve. As always, he seemed to know exactly what it was she needed to hear the most.

Monkey poked his head around the corner. “Hey nerd, food is ready! Oh, hi, Mr. Troy.”

“Good to see you, Monkey,” Troy greeted. He turned to Tripitaka. “Go to your friends. And remember what I said.”

“I will,” Tripitaka promised, wiping her face again. “Bye for now, Troy.”

Monkey waited until the call ended and Tripitaka to stand up before bending his head down at her, a hand hovering around her face. “Were you crying just now? Are you alright?”

She took his hand and nodded. “Troy just always knows the right thing to say.” She gave him an extra squeeze. “He seems to have changed his opinion of you.”

Monkey preened. “But of course.” He tugged at her. “Come on; food is getting cold.”

Once everyone had been sufficiently fed and watered, the group continued on for the rest of the afternoon, although Sandy was making it rather uncomfortable for everyone by shooting nasty glares at Pigsy every so often, which he either ignored or was entirely unaware of, or making snide comments under her breath. To give herself a break, Tripitaka called her three Pokémon back, and was pleasantly surprised when even Rén fluttered down in front of her, peering at her inquisitively.

“So uh,” Tripitaka began, suddenly feeling awkward addressing all three of them at once. It had been a while, considering Rén was usually off doing his own thing. “How do you three feel about evolving now that we’ve been traveling together for a while? No pressure of course, I just wanted to get a sense of how everyone was feeling.”

Rén huffed. “I don’t want to evolve, ever.”

Tripitaka nodded. “I figured, but it’s nice to know.” She wanted to press him further on why he was so dead set against evolving and growing stronger, but decided against it.

“We done here?” Rén grumbled, taking off before Tripitaka could answer.

Echo was thoughtful, twirling his spoon over his fingers. “I like how I am. Maybe if I need to be stronger I could, but not now. I want to stay as I am for a while.”

“That’s fine,” Tripitaka replied. One simple trade to Monkey or Sandy and that would be taken care of. She glanced at Sage, who was watching her fidgeting paws. “Have you given any more thought to what form you want to take?”

Sage shook her head, uncertain eyes flicking between Echo and where Rén had flown off to. “I’m happy right now.”

Tripitaka nodded and shooed them all away. She had a suspicion that Sage was copying Rén and Echo since she didn’t know what she wanted or what to say, but it wasn’t an issue for now. Like she had told the Eevee before, if she never evolved, that was perfectly fine with Tripitaka.

As the sun was starting to hang low in the sky, the group made camp, going through their usual motions of setting up tents and sleeping bags and Infernape starting a fire, but with the extra activity of Pigsy starting to actually cook something over the flames. (And no, Monkey, grilling a protein bar and heating up a can of beans does not count as cooking, you fucking moron.)

The Pokémon had all adjusted to each other well enough. Infernape and Golem had become fast friends, coming to the silent agreement to take Echo as their protégé. Comfey and Mist got along well, and the little fairy was steadily wearing down Edge’s guard, allowing her to touch her arm blades in what must have been a record time. Sage dozed in a crack along Golem’s back and somehow made it look comfortable. Golem looked at Echo and asked if he was the oldest of his litter.

“Yeah, how did you know?”

“Just a hunch.”

Tripitaka stared at the flames as Pigsy continued to cook, assisted by Infernape who was happy to lend a hand that did not need oven mitts. “Anyone have any theories why Rén thinks evolution is a bad thing?”

Monkey frowned, chewing on a blade of grass. “Evolution isn’t a good or bad thing. It just is,” he said with a shrug. “It’s not the weirdest thing in the world for a Pokémon to not want to seek it out.”

“Well, I’ll be the first to admit I was sad when my Piloswine evolved,” Pigsy commented, not looking up. Monkey opened his mouth to reply, probably to say that Mamoswine were so strong and probably looked cooler than Piloswine, or perhaps to crack a joke about the drastically increased grocery bill, but Pigsy went on, “I couldn’t hold her anymore.”

Tripitaka wished Pigsy could see her face and how sweet such a notion was.

“Where’s Mamoswine now? Did you abandon her too?” Sandy asked, voice taut.

“Sandy!” Tripitaka hissed sharply.

“I left her in Alola when I moved here.” Golem watched Pigsy’s face and remained quiet.

“What’s she doing there? Is she with your family or whatever?” Monkey asked before Sandy could jab at Pigsy again.

“Hopefully she’s not doing much of anything. She’s buried at the base of Mount Lanakila.”

Sandy went paler than what Tripitaka thought was possible and Monkey went still. “I am so sorry,” Tripitaka murmured.

Pigsy didn’t appear to have heard, or cared. “She got sick.” He swallowed. “The last days were…” His voice cut off and he shook his head, throat bobbing up and down. Golem put a hand on his shoulder and Comfey hugged him, her long tail snuggling around his neck. “She actually was my first Pokémon. This cutup came along when he smelled my cooking… He kind of took over her role as the voice of reason after she passed.”

The group was quiet for a while after Pigsy spoke, until Golem shifted.

“You all would have loved her.”

“If she’s anything like you three, I’m sure we would have,” Tripitaka replied. It was hard to imagine Golem being anything other than his steadfast and serious self, but she supposed that life circumstances changed their team dynamics.

Sandy was silent, shifting closer to Mist and not looking up from the fire, face contorted into a pained expression. Tripitaka didn’t call attention to it, and figured she was probably all too familiar with grief’s sting and was reliving old wounds from long ago.

Monkey glanced down at his phone, and whispered a curse under his breath.

“What is it?” Pigsy asked, stirring his stew. Tripitaka’s heart fell when Monkey shot a fleeting glance at her and then whisked it back to his phone.

“Briney is still out at sea, but it’s going to be at least a week before he can get the boat ready for a journey across the ocean.” He shoved his phone in his pocket, giving Tripitaka a worried glance. “I still think he’s our best option. No one knows the sea like he does, and we kind of need that with all the weird bullshit storms cropping up. Best move we can make for now is to hustle over and wait for him… maybe see if we can speed him up a bit once he gets back.”

Tripitaka buried her head in her hands and took some calming breaths, feeling squeezed from all sides. It was just a setback it was just a setback there have been setbacks before and it’s worked out it was going to be fine stop panicking why does this always happen-

“Tripitaka are you alright?” Sandy asked in a worried voice.

Tripitaka didn’t answer and lurched to her feet to escape the burning stares from everyone. Echo’s worry buzzed in her tangled thoughts but was pushed aside as she fought to get herself under control. It’s fine. It’s totally fine. Why was this such a big deal right now? She tried to name off the dentition of Vulpix to calm herself down but her brain wouldn’t call up how many pairs of molars they had. Was it three on top, two on bottom, or was it three pairs for each? She could hear whispers behind her, and she pressed her hands to her temples, feeling the racing pulse that pounded beneath the skin and a dull roar filling her mind.

Strong arms wrapped around her, silencing her mind. For a moment she just stood there completely rigid, until Monkey slowly turned her around and hugged her properly, tucking her under his chin and one hand cradling the back of her head. She could feel herself melt in his arms, rapid breaths drawing in the comforting smell of campfire smoke and Monkey’s cologne mingling with sweat.

“I-” her voice cracked. Monkey hummed.

“I know what you’re going to say,” he murmured, the soft vibrations of his voice soothing her pounding skull. “And you’re getting worked up because we’ve had a lot of delays and this journey to your internship means a lot to you. I’m honestly surprised you didn’t have a freak out like this earlier.”

Tripitaka brought her leaden arms up around him. “Monkey-”

“It’s okay, I got you, Miss Intern-In-Waiting. Just let it happen,” he spoke, arms shifting ever so slightly to secure her tighter without being uncomfortable. “I promise I’m going to get you there.”

“We’re all going to get you to your internship, Tripitaka,” Sandy whispered, her thin arms wrapping around Tripitaka and pressing into her back. Tripitaka had no idea when she had walked up to them, but she welcomed the contact. Pigsy was still attending the fire and the food, but was keeping the Pokémon occupied with their own dinner he dished out for them. He glanced up at them.

“Stew’s on whenever you guys are done feeling your feelings,” he called with a faux grouchiness. When the three finally returned to their places, Pigsy handed her a bowl and said he was going to brew some calming tea for her later.

The rest of the evening was quiet, Monkey suddenly reaching out and giving Tripitaka’s hand a brief squeeze before retreating to his sleeping bag and flopping down for the night, sawing logs within minutes. She didn’t remember him always being this affectionate, but his change in behavior wasn’t entirely unwelcome. Perhaps he was extra worried because the straw finally broke her metaphorical Camerupt’s back. It had become a silent routine for the two of them (which Sandy had quickly picked up on); a nightly spam of memes and funny videos shared over the phones, but persistent quiet so Tripitaka could do research or finish her daily report if she hadn’t already.

Despite being tired and finished with her report, she lay awake tonight, scrolling through her phone in between doing her usual research. Everyone had fallen asleep, so she thought she was alone, Sage curled up in the crook of her elbow.

Sandy stirred, stepping lightly over to where Pigsy was arranged, and she whispered quietly to him until he grunted and woke up. Tripitaka remained where she was, opting to let this play out and feign sleep.

“What’s wrong?” he rumbled.

Sandy was quiet until she whispered, “Tell me about Mamoswine.”

Tripitaka winced but remained still.

“This couldn’t wait till morning?” Pigsy sighed after a lengthy hesitation, voice guarded and taut. “What’s there to know? She got sick and died. There’s some things that can’t be cured, even for Pokémon. And we tried everything.”

“It’s just… Pokémon dying from illness is so rare,” Sandy commented in a worried voice.

Pigsy snorted. “Highly doubt Mist or Edge are going to come down with whatever Mamoswine had, if that’s what you’re worried about. I’m just that unlucky.”

Sandy was quiet again, and the air was thick with unspoken words that eventually Pigsy had to break.

“Comfey was a depressed wreck that she couldn’t help Mamoswine… I think it still affects her today. That’s probably why she’s so clingy with me.”

“That’s not why she loves you.” Sandy’s comment was said with unshakable resolve and belief, which surprised Tripitaka. She had thought that Pigsy was on top of Sandy’s Public Enemy List right next to Silver.

Pigsy didn’t answer her. Instead, he cleared his throat and sniffed. “At the end, she didn’t even recognize me. And that hurt… more than you’ll ever know. It’s funny,” he said with a mirthless chuckle, “It hurt so much that I was relieved when she finally passed. And I hate myself so much for that.”

They were quiet so long that Tripitaka thought they had both nodded off, until Sandy spoke up.

“Locke hated your relationship with Golem.” Pigsy didn’t refute this, but didn’t comment, so Sandy continued on, “Bad people make you hide away parts of yourself to make themselves feel better. That’s what my dad always told me.”

“He sounds like a smart man,” Pigsy replied thickly.

“I’m sorry for judging you,” Sandy murmured.

“You’re passionate about Pokémon, it’s fine,” Pigsy replied swiftly. “I deserved it.”

“It’s not fine and you didn’t deserve it, Pigsy. A lot of things pointed to you being a good man but I didn’t believe it. So I’ve decided then.” Sandy’s voice turned brighter. “I’m going to be your friend.”

Pigsy chuckled. “I suppose I don’t have much of a choice in the matter, do I?”

“No.”

Pigsy chuckled again. “I could always use some more friends.”

Tripitaka could hear the smile in his voice.

Maybe you don’t see it, but you’re quicker than the world can spin
You should know what you’ve got ‘cause you got it at your fingertips

You’ve got it in you
You’ve got it in you.

Chapter Text

Something was missing.

Tripitaka popped awake as the sun was just beginning to peek through the trees, the grass still wet with dew. A quick glance amongst the campsite showed everyone in their place, except for Monkey, who was nowhere in sight. Before Tripitaka even thought to ask, Sage yawned and lifted an ear to point in the direction of the trees without opening her eyes, and so Tripitaka silently left the rest of them to sleep.

She was three steps into the forest beginning to greet the dawn when she asked herself why she was even looking for Monkey in the first place. Tripitaka couldn’t find an answer except her initial thought upon waking up. Maybe she just wanted to make sure she knew where everyone was, that must be it.

Monkey was standing looking up into the trees, his normal proud posture ever so slightly hunched, his hands clasped in front of his chest.

“I know it’s a lot, to carry a stranger all the way to Orre, but I swear to you, I won’t ask anything else from you, ever again. If this doesn’t work out, you’re my best shot, my only shot, really, to get Tripitaka where she needs to go.”

Tripitaka strained to see through the trees, and couldn’t see a single sign of life. A branch rustled, but the leaves obscured the possible source.

“Please. I may not be able to make her dream come true, but you can,” Monkey pleaded. “Don’t do it for me, but do it for her, she deserves this. I know I don’t have the right to ask this of you, but I can vouch for her. She’s the best of all of us. Just…” His head bowed and he kicked at a twig, arms dropping to his sides. “Just think about it, okay?

Tripitaka withdrew from Monkey and his Pokémon’s conversation and headed back to the campsite, holding a hand over her mouth to silence her crying.

Who was she for Monkey to beg like this on her behalf? He didn’t beg for anything; he demanded and became an unstoppable force until he got what he wanted. This was a side of him that was entirely new to Tripitaka, and it left her utterly floored.

Pigsy was rolling up his sleeping bag when she got back, and his expression changed when he saw her face. “Are you alright?”

She swiftly nodded, scooping up a groggy Sage and cuddling into her soft mane.

Pigsy’s eyes flicked between Monkey’s empty sleeping bag and back to her face that was probably reddened and puffy. “You’d tell me if there was something wrong, right?”

Tripitaka nodded, smiling at him. He grunted, going back to rekindling the fire and refilling the teapot. It was very much Pigsy’s style of caring; he never pried, just went about making sure everyone was sorted and was available, although he made a show about being grouchy about sharing feelings. His method of caring was certainly less showy than others, but it was something Tripitaka cherished.

Sandy abruptly sat up and began her usual motions of getting ready for the day as if she wasn’t in a dead sleep not a moment before. She glanced at Tripitaka, and then glanced around, pausing at Monkey’s spot, hand drifting to her belt and hovering over Edge’s Pokéball. “Did he do something?”

Sage nuzzled Tripitaka’s chin as she chuckled. “No. What makes you think Monkey did something?”

And then there was Sandy with her direct approach to problem solving. She and Monkey were a lot similar in that regard, although Sandy had a more delicate hand. She may not always know exactly how to handle a situation or other people’s emotions, but she would always give her best effort and adamantly persist in trying everything until she was satisfied.

Sandy’s brow furrowed. “The way you react to him getting under your skin is very distinctive. It’s like… the emotions he brings out of you are different from everyone else.”

That statement gave Tripitaka pause. It was something she hadn’t even noticed, much less considered. It was like the exasperated temper he often provoked ran hotter but the following laughs were sweeter. The way he said her name felt safer coming from his mouth, the food he shared with her tasted much better than anything she picked for herself. The smiles he pulled out of her warmed her entire heart, not just lighting her face, and her depth of trust in his reassurances and optimism was unquestioning instead of letting her pessimism nag at the back of her mind when other people told her things. It was like everything she felt was amplified around him, or maybe like experiencing entirely new emotions for the very first time despite being familiar.

Granted it was probably just because he was a rather excitable person and he raised everyone’s spirits, but maybe Sandy was onto something.

Monkey pranced into the camp, flopping down practically in Pigsy’s lap. “Morning.”

“That must’ve been the longest piss in the history of time and space,” Pigsy snorted. “You’ve been gone since I woke up.”

Monkey opened his mouth to reply but Sandy shut him down before he could make his no doubt crude reply. He instead reached for some muffins Pigsy was warming by the fire, but was slapped away by Pigsy.

“You can wait a few more minutes; don’t be a fucking animal,” Pigsy growled.

Monkey withdrew his hand with a pout, jiggling his leg in anticipation. Tripitaka glanced over and saw Echo deep in concentration, running his spoon along Sage’s back like Presto had taught him. Sage gamely remained still, save for a small twitch of a tail wag every so often. Echo kept returning to the same spot on Sage’s back, right between her shoulder blades, a trickle of his puzzlement seeping into Tripitaka’s mind that gradually evolved into concern.

“Echo? What’s wrong?” she called to him. His tail swished, and Sage bounded over to Tripitaka to bump into her shin with a purr. 

“I did a psychic scan to practice,” Echo said, plodding over. “Something weird is in her back. It’s tiny.”

“How tiny?” Monkey asked, snatching a muffin and tearing into it before Pigsy could react, hissing and chugging some water when it inevitably was too hot for his tongue.

“A bit smaller than the rice we had the other night,” Echo said. “I don’t know what it is.”

“Like an identification chip?” Sandy glanced at Tripitaka for confirmation.

She shook her head, mystified. “Professor Elm never mentioned she had one, and the Pokémon Centers never mentioned it.”

“Maybe they thought it was supposed to be there,” Pigsy said. “Breeders sometimes implant chips in when the Pokémon is young.”

“Sage didn’t come from a breeder,” Tripitaka told him. “Professor Elm’s family friend has an Umbreon that had a litter and gave Sage to the Professor.” She glanced at Sage. “Does it hurt?”

Sage shook her head, looking over her shoulder as if she was expecting to see whatever was in her back would suddenly materialize, paws shuffling uncomfortably.

“When would something like this happen?” Monkey asked, draping the Eevee over his forearm and parting her mane with his hand to peer at the skin between her shoulder blades. “There’s no scar or anything…”

“There wouldn’t be a scar; chips are implanted with a special syringe,” Tripitaka corrected. “Did you get a shot or something in that spot?”

Sage shook her head again. “I don’t remember anything like that.”

“That’s so strange,” Sandy mused, prodding at Sage’s skin as well. “Echo, does anyone else have one of these?”

“I mean I haven’t scanned anyone else, but I can do that today,” he replied. Comfey floated over and sat down in front of him expectantly with a sweet smile. “I guess I’ll start with Comfey, then.”

“Take your time,” Tripitaka told him. “I can email Professor Elm and ask about it in the meantime.”

Pigsy appeared to be deep in thought as he started tidying up their campsite in preparation to move out, brow pinched. Eventually he cleared his throat.

“I don’t mean to alarm anyone, but it seemed to me that Locke was… unusually interested in Tripitaka while you guys were at the Lodge,” he said, the words dragged slowly from his mouth, reluctant to voice his thoughts. “I think she wanted to roofie Tripitaka before you left.”

Monkey bristled and Tripitaka frowned. “What makes you say that?”

Pigsy shook his head, eyes darting as he thought. “I thought it was weird when she gave me a glass of water that was open and said specifically to take that to the monk.”

Tripitaka thought their interaction that day had been rather strange when Pigsy had flung the water against the wall, but had chalked it up to Pigsy exercising a bit of rebellious spontaneity as opposed to him suspecting the water was tainted.

“I know Locke had…” Pigsy’s pause was delicate. “She had criminal connections in the past and some shady people stopped by every now and then but not enough for me to confront her about it.”

“You didn’t confront her about anything,” Monkey retorted.

Pigsy ever so slightly slumped, wincing. “Yes, but neither did Monica. Locke kept us out of that part of herself.”

“Should we call the police on her?” Sandy asked with a tilt of her head.

“I only have my suspicions, not concrete proof.”

“Why would she of all people be interested in an intern?” Monkey wondered. “No offense, of course, Tripitaka, you’re really cool, but it’s just that Locke never struck me as the scholarly type. Or someone that would take an interest in monks.”

“No offense taken,” Tripitaka assured him, watching Echo examine the end of Comfey’s thin tail and nod to her, scan complete. Before she could even open her mouth, Rén had touched down next to them, lunging his head at Comfey to scare her off that Tripitaka could tell was merely empty posturing with no actual aggression behind it. Comfey wasn’t as familiar with Rén’s quirks, and hurried back to Pigsy, curling around his neck and clinging to his beard. “We don’t know for sure what she actually wanted. Like you said, you don’t have concrete proof.”

Pigsy grunted, but a look passed between him and Golem that Tripitaka couldn’t interpret.

Monkey passed Sage to Tripitaka. “Well, not much to do about it now until Echo or the good Professor tells us more. Let’s just get moving.”

Sandy and Tripitaka agreed, and they all went about packing up their bed rolls. Infernape spoke something into Monkey’s ear, who just nodded, shooting a glance over his shoulder at Tripitaka and looking away as soon as he saw she was watching.

Although Locke was out of the picture now, Tripitaka couldn’t help but mull over the mystery and wonder what piece of the puzzle was missing. At least Silver was straightforward in his intentions; he was a bully that had a grudge against Monkey for and took it out on Tripitaka because she was an easy target traveling with him. Whatever their deal was, at least at the internship there wouldn’t be any drama. Just fellow students with like-minded goals working to gain experience in the field and learning more about Pokémon and what being a researcher was all about. There wouldn’t be time for petty rivalries, surely. That was something to look forward to for sure. If she could handle all that this journey had thrown at her, an internship would be simple by comparison.

The day passed as it normally did, lots of good natured ribbing and talking about everything and nothing at all. While Echo busied himself with the scans, Comfey cheered Sage on as she fired Shadow Balls through the natural hoop Comfey’s body made, much to Pigsy’s dismay and Sage’s excitement. Her aim was improving; Comfey only had to make some minor adjustments every now and then for the orbs to score.

“Ten points, motherfuckers!” Monkey yelled, twirling a shrieking Sage about. “That’s what I’m talking about, little girl!”

“Soon she’s going to be as sharp a shooter as Mist,” Sandy commented. Mist flexed proudly in response.

“Is that a Geodude over there?” Tripitaka asked, zooming in with her phone and snapping a picture. Her Pokédex app pinged and confirmed the rock type’s identity.

“Geodude? Where?” Golem asked, eyes widening when he saw it. “Pigsy. Dude Launch.”

Pigsy sighed, grumbling that Monkey was a bad influence on his Pokémon, but Monkey and Infernape perked up.

“‘Dude Launch?’” they repeated in sync.

Golem looked at them excitedly, tucking in his arms to roll over to the Pokémon. “Dude launch.”

“DUDE LAUNCH! DUDE LAUNCH! DUDE LAUNCH!” the three of them chanted, sprinting over to where the Geodude was.

“Pigsy? What’s Dude Launch?” Sandy asked.

“Something I don’t approve of but everyone finds it hysterical,” Pigsy groused, checking his phone. “Give them a minute to get their sillies out; this won’t take long.”

Dude Launch apparently was exactly how it sounded; snatching the Geodude up and forcibly launching it from the rail gun protrusion on Golem’s back with an electrically charged explosion off to Ho-oh-knows-where.

To Pigsy and Tripitaka’s chagrin, it turned out that this location was a popular spot for Geodude, and the three of them spent the next twenty minutes blasting the population off into the horizon, laughing hysterically each time like they had never seen it before. Some of the Geodude even lined up to participate, so that was a relief for Tripitaka that it wasn’t entirely unpleasant for them. Echo had also joined in, levitating the waiting Geodude onto Golem’s back and snickering. While it did eat into their time, eventually Tripitaka couldn’t help herself but laugh at the antics, getting some good footage for later, specifically voicing over that the Geodude were not under duress.

“When Golem was still a Geodude, if we ran into a Golem he would beg to get launched,” Pigsy said with a fond shake of his head. “I think he’s delighted to return the favor now that he’s fully evolved.”

“What is it with some Pokémon loving to be flung around like that?” Sandy wondered, her gaze following the arc of a particularly round Geodude tumbling through the air.

“It’s yeet or be yeeted, as my AlolaInsider community would say,” Pigsy said. “I’m too fucking old to fully understand, so I might just be saying absolute nonsense.”

“Maybe it’s like what a roller coaster is for us,” Tripitaka mused, taking notes. “I know in Galar there’s a dragon type Pokémon named Dreepy who loves being launched out of its final evolution, Dragapult. Or maybe it’s a way to practice battling skills or something.”

“Good stuff for your report,” Sandy commented. “I think they’re finally worn out.”

“Finally,” Pigsy complained, even though Tripitaka could tell he actually didn’t mind the brief rest.

Golem rolled to a stop and uncurled in front of Pigsy. “I need a break for a bit. Do you mind?”

Pigsy glanced at Tripitaka, and Golem blinked when he realized his mistake. Tripitaka unclipped Golem’s Pokéball from her string of beads and handed it to Pigsy with a questioning look at Golem, who nodded with a smile, and allowed Pigsy to recall him. Pigsy cradled his partner’s Pokéball to his chest, his expression filled with pained joy. Tripitaka didn’t say anything, just patting his burly arm with her hand and continuing on, not bringing any attention to Pigsy’s watery eyes.

When the afternoon rolled around and everyone was taking a water break, Monkey leaned obnoxiously close into her space, Sage sitting propped on his arm and leaning against his chest. He cleared his throat. Tripitaka ignored him until he did it again, Sage adding a chirp to get her attention, and she glanced at him and awaited his performance, whatever it was.

He grinned and held up Sage’s paw and pressed on her paw pads, making beeping and booping sounds like he was dialing on a phone, and held her paw to his ear. “Mhm. Yup. Okay. Understood. Mmmmhm.” Tripitaka raised an eyebrow as he went on and on, until he held Sage out to her. “It’s for you.”

Tripitaka snorted. (How could it be for her if he was the one that dialed?) But, she played along and held Sage’s paw up to her ear. “Yes?”

“I want snacks,” Monkey informed her.

Tripitaka stifled a snort. “Okay…?”

“So I’m gonna order from PogoPuff and you guys can add yours in as well. The Pokémon too.”

“Sounds good,” Tripitaka replied, passing Sage back to Monkey. Her tail wagged as he pressed on her paw pad a final time to hang up. “I wouldn’t mind some milk tea, anyway. Did you guys rehearse this pitch or something?”

Monkey rolled his eyes. “I only need one take for perfection. Plus this thing lets me do whatever I want,” he cooed, holding Sage upside down and manipulating the giggling little fox every which way into various silly poses and positions and planting kisses on her cheeks. Tripitaka shook her head and left them to it, now unfazed by his antics and knowing that Sage was completely safe with Monkey.

When Monkey’s phone made it to her hands, Tripitaka’s eyes popped out at the running total, but figured Monkey could afford it, but instructed her Pokémon to keep their wishes simple. Rén gave her a withering look and asked why she even bothered to call him down for something so stupid before flying off. She figured he would refuse anything other than raw meat, but didn’t want him to feel excluded. Sage had her eye on a sweet mini berry tart, and Echo wanted a pint of rainbow sherbet. Tripitaka wondered if he was going to use his own spoon for eating it, considering he usually just ate with his empty hand. She looked forward to finding out.

“Sandy, why did you order an Un-Crustleable peanut butter and jelly of all things?” Pigsy asked her, glancing at the order. “I could make you one of those in two seconds and it won’t be full of preservatives.”

Sandy shrugged a shoulder. “I haven’t had one of those since I lived in Sootopolis,” she said in a soft voice, looking awkward. “I couldn’t really buy them on my own at first and then I got into the habit of not buying things that weren’t necessities.”

“Ah.” Pigsy also looked supremely uncomfortable as he realized. Tripitaka could tell he was tucking that information away for later, considering how picky an eater Sandy could be.

“Aaaand sent,” Monkey declared, shoving his phone in his pocket. “You guys really didn’t go all out like I thought you would.”

“Because we’re not fucking rude like you would be,” Pigsy retorted. “I have plenty of snacks anyway.”

“We didn’t want to impose or seem like we were taking advantage, Monkey,” Tripitaka told him in a much more soothing tone.

Monkey scoffed. “I’d buy whatever you wanted. I’ll have to get you guys into the habit of indulging.”

“Okay, Mr. Moneybags,” Pigsy chuckled. “Not all of us are used to immense wealth like you. Between the three of us, we have a partial owner of a run-down hotel that barely broke even in its best months, a kid who spent her formative years in poverty, and a monk. Not all of us have world championship prize money or sponsorships or ad revenue to fall back on.”

Monkey happily held up his hands in a playful shrug. “It’s a burden for sure.”

“I wasn’t in poverty after I won some tournaments,” Sandy said, indignant. “I just didn’t allow myself to buy anything I didn’t absolutely need since I didn’t know when my next win would be.”

“That sounds an awful lot like poverty,” Monkey replied. He threw an arm around her. “We are going to break that habit of yours whether you like it or not.”

Sandy made a face and wriggled away from his grasp, going to stand beside Tripitaka, who gave her hand a squeeze.

“What he means is he’s going to slowly ease you into spoiling yourself,” Tripitaka said, leveling a stern glance at Monkey, who caught her eye and imitated a bobble head with the speed of his nods and a sheepish look.

“Ah. That’s fine then,” Sandy mused.

As the group walked on, Monkey assured everyone the delivery service tracked their location on his phone. Echo finished his scans of everyone, including the humans, revealing nothing suspicious. It really was just Sage, and Professor Elm replied to the email and said he hadn’t heard anything of an identification chip, and to get it properly scanned when they made it to the next Pokémon Center.

“ATTENTION. ATTENTION. YOUR DELIVERY IS IMMINENT. PLEASE PREPARE TO RECEIVE PURCHASED ITEMS.”

The group looked up to see a cluster of four Magneton descending from the sky carrying insulated metal boxes, each unit adorned with miniature delivery hats bearing the Slurpuff logo on the front. The magnets detached from the boxes and the Magneton hovered backwards avoiding the group diving for the boxes.

“I’ve got mine!” Sandy exclaimed, scurrying away towards Mist and Edge.

Tripitaka rustled through her box, passing Pigsy his Zebstrika Cake and searching for Echo’s pint of sherbet. She moved to the next one and crashed headlong into Monkey with a painful smack.

A light flashed and a shutter clicked.

“DELIVERY VERIFIED,” the first Magneton intoned in its electronic voice. “IMAGE VERIFICATION SENT TO ELECTRONIC MAIL ON FILE. HAVE A NICE DAY.”

“Ow…” Monkey hissed, reaching out and rubbing Tripitaka’s smarting head, who quickly apologized at the same time he did. “Sorry.”

“Please curb your enthusiasm, you two…” Pigsy said with a beleaguered sigh. “I’d rather not deal with any concussions today.”

Mist and Edge got chocolate dipped pretzels and powdered donuts respectively, and although were happy to share with each other, the other Pokémon took a bit more cajoling to steal bites from their packages. Comfey floated around and ensured everyone had at least one piece of freeze dried fruit from her bag, leaving almost none for herself had it not been for Golem stopping her around mouthfuls of his cheddar dusted popcorn. Infernape had downed his bag of sour gummy Bewears in almost one gulp and was tearing into his cookies before anyone could even ask to share.

Pigsy cracked open his beer and took a long swig, sighing in contentment as he popped open his container of scones.

“Hey, guess what?” Monkey exclaimed.

“You figured out you can count to twenty-one if you take off all your clothes?” Pigsy asked dryly.

Monkey paused for too long of a time before waving him off. “No, they accidentally gave us extra snacks!”

Pigsy took Monkey’s phone and looked at the receipt. “No, you dumbass, they gave you exactly as many as you ordered. You must have fat fingered it.”

“Oh. Well, more for everyone!” Monkey exclaimed.

“Also, check out the picture the Magneton took,” Pigsy chuckled, holding it up.

Tripitaka leaned over to take a look and groaned.

The picture was beyond unflattering to the point of hilarity, her face twisted into a ghoulish grimace of shock and pain, the flash highlighting every single feature that somehow made her visage even worse. Monkey, however, could not take a bad picture if his life depended on it, somehow looking like he was playfully winking to the camera, the flash gleaming off his teeth in a perfect sparkling grin.

“Delete that,” she said flatly.

Monkey beamed at the screen, a gentle gasp escaping his lips. “Perish the thought; this is perfect. It’s going to be my phone background!” he squealed, messing about on his phone.

Of course his phone background would be a picture of himself.

Tripitaka got up and walked to where Echo and Sage were sitting. “How is everything? Oh, Sage…”

The little Eevee had exercised a heroic amount of restraint while eating her berry tart, but her tail was wagging a mile a minute and she had still managed to come out of it with her face a complete sticky mess. Tripitaka grabbed a napkin and dampened it with the condensation from her milk tea cup and dabbed at the gooey mess, managing to get a few globs off. “I’m glad you liked it. What about you, Echo?”

To her delight he was happily working through his sherbet, using his own spoon. He nodded, a ripple of delight tickling her mind.

“I’ve heard that things eaten from a Kadabra or Alakazam spoon taste extra better,” Sandy called from her perch next to Edge and Mist, stirring her own milk tea and offering a gummy fish to Edge. “You should try it.”

Tripitaka didn’t want to impose, even for scientific purposes, and just opened her pint of pistachio ice cream and dug in, stuffing her granola bar into her bag for later. Echo’s spoon was how he focused his psychic powers, and it didn’t seem right to ask him to part with it, even for a second.

Echo considered Tripitaka, his knuckles trembling as he squeezed his spoon tighter. Tripitaka was about to tell him to stop it and just enjoy himself, but he held his spoon out for her.

“For science,” Echo said, his eyes darting about as if expecting to be ambushed, but were completely trusting.

“Okay, I’ll be quick,” Tripitaka said, swapping their spoons and taking a swift bite. The flavor was somehow richer and smoother, the individual notes of the ice cream dancing on her tongue and singing in perfect harmony as it melted on her tongue. She blinked, returning the spoon to Echo. “I think food just got ruined for me,” she said lightly, mentally taking notes for her report later. She patted his shoulder armor. “Thank you,” she said, filling her mind with as much care and sincerity as she could manage, knowing he would sense it.

Echo squeezed his spoon again, looking suddenly bashful and nodded, going back to his sherbet, looking much more relaxed.

“That’s an insane amount of love and trust right there,” Monkey said, coming up behind her and making her jump. “Jealous…”

“What do you mean, jealous?” Tripitaka repeated, frowning as the sickly-sweet tang of Monkey’s energy drink wafted into her nose. He really did not need the extra caffeine. Or heart failure.

Monkey hastily waved her off, stuffing some of his spicy jerky in his mouth and shambled off to Infernape, who was holding a container of Monkey’s mozzarella sticks in one hand and a container of brownie bites in the other to warm them up.

When evening finally rolled around, everyone was too stuffed to have a meaningful dinner despite Pigsy’s offer. Infernape nevertheless lit a fire, and Monkey pulled out some more packages, waving them enticingly.

“I bought stuff for s’mores,” he cackled. “And enough for everyone.”

“I haven’t had one of those in years,” Sandy breathed, eyes wider than the giant marshmallows Monkey had procured.

“Well, there’s always room for some of these,” Pigsy said, sitting close to the flames and choosing some thin sticks to roast the marshmallows on.

As usual, Pigsy was the cooking master, toasting the marshmallows to the perfect golden crust. Sandy tried her best, but hers ended up a pile of cinders that Golem graciously ate. Monkey just lit his on fire because he could, running around waving his fireball on a stick and yelling. Tripitaka busied herself with making a production line for all of the Pokémon eagerly waiting their turn. Rén just stared at them all, sitting close to Pigsy, who didn’t even attempt to interact with him, which the owl probably appreciated.

Sage’s face turned into a sticky mess once again, and Infernape had to hold her up so Mist could rinse her clean. While Infernape was distracted, Monkey nudged Tripitaka, methodically toasting his stick of marshmallows over Infernape’s head flame. He first offered one to Tripitaka and ate the other two right off the stick, not bothering to make a s’more. Infernape whipped around at Monkey’s cackling and let out an indignant yell before launching himself at Monkey. Monkey shoved a marshmallow in Infernape’s mouth, laughing hysterically, and the two began to brawl once again.

Tripitaka snorted at the scene. They certainly had a strange way of expressing their affection for each other. Sandy looked between them and Tripitaka and Rén, looking puzzled.

“Why haven’t you sent your Hoothoot back home?” she finally asked.

Rén looked up, silently waiting for Tripitaka’s response. Monkey and Infernape continued yelling at each other and wrestling in the background.

“Because my dad wants him to travel with me,” Tripitaka replied. “I offered to send him back but he said no.”

“I don’t think I could travel with a Pokémon that doesn’t like me,” Sandy said with a shake of her head.

Pigsy gave her a confused look. “What are you talking about? He doesn’t hate her.”

“He doesn’t want to really interact with her,” Sandy ventured. “Even Edge is friendlier to me than he is with her.”

“That’s… just the way he is. But I trust him completely,” Tripitaka realized. “He doesn’t owe me anything just because he travels with me. I’ve made a lot of progress with him and building our relationship, but…”

Her voice trailed off. She had often wondered if Rén would ever let her touch him or ride on her arm like he did with Troy, or experience that magical moment in all of media when a Pokémon finally leans into their trainer’s trembling hand as the emotional music swelled and her heart soared. “I may never get that moment with him. And I’m okay with that. I’m just glad he’s here.”

She realized that Sandy didn’t have any context to what that moment in question was because that revelation took place only in her mind, but Sandy seemed to understand and let the topic drop. But it was a genuine statement, as natural as breathing. She was actually okay with Rén existing on her team exactly as he was. And she was genuinely grateful for his watchful eye and presence; she didn’t say it now with a forced smile just for Troy’s benefit or to assuage Rén’s prickly emotions. Perhaps that irritable owl had grown on her after all.

Troy had been right all along; Rén had become perfect to her because she had learned how to accept him exactly as he was. She chuckled. She really had come a long way. And she had a strong feeling that Rén felt the same.

Her report sent off to both Troy and the Professor and her sleeping bag set up, Tripitaka caught Monkey staring off into the forest like he had been all day when he thought no one had been watching. She went over to stand by his side, trying to follow his gaze, before looking up at him. Even in the shadows, his profile was as handsome as ever, even if his expression looked more stressed than usual, the flickering firelight wreathing his hair.

“No answer from her yet?” Tripitaka asked in sympathy.

He startled, looking down at her as if seeing her for the first time. “What do you mean?” he asked, striking his typical nonchalant pose although something about it rang hollow.

“I overheard you this morning,” she replied.

Monkey sniffed, kicking a rock. “I thought you guys were still asleep…” he muttered.

Tripitaka gently bumped her shoulder into his arm. “I can’t really explain it, but I had a feeling something was off when I woke up, and saw you weren’t there.”

Monkey was quiet for a moment, just watching her face, eyes flicking down to her lips and staying there. “You thought something was off because I was gone?”

“Yeah. And it… it was really sweet of you to ask her like that,” Tripitaka said, heart starting to beat a little extra harder at his inexplicable intensity. “More than you know. You’ve been… well. Amazing, really. This whole time, on this journey.”

“Same could be said for you,” Monkey murmured, catching her eye again. “Can’t say I’ve ever met anyone like you before.”

Tripitaka’s heart stuttered, and her eyes traced his face before settling on Monkey’s lips, and noted how inviting they were, just slightly parted, before scolding herself that there was no way Monkey could feel any way about a monk like her and to not be so indulgent as to think he could. He was a friend and everything he did was because he was a good friend. Even still… here he was, just in front of her, staring at her with an expression she had never seen him make for anyone before. They remained like that, suspended in time for a moment, before Monkey’s hands slid up to just cup her face.

Tripitaka could feel her eyes widening, and in just an instant she thought back over every single one of their interactions up to this point. Surely he could feel how fast her fluttering heart was, his fingers just under her jawline and grazing her pulse point. Was she misreading this? Had she missed something? Did she have something on her face? Who’s to say this was actually happening, anyway?

“You’ve got that look in your eye. Stop overthinking this, little monk,” Monkey whispered, leaning down. Tripitaka’s mind went blank, and before she knew it she had allowed herself to reach up to meet him, and just as their lips just barely brushed-

Rén’s impatient hoot interrupted them.

Monkey glanced up, Tripitaka missing the sudden loss of his warmth and closeness, and with several deep breaths looked up at the owl perched above them cocking his head.

“This couldn’t have waited a few minutes?” Tripitaka asked tautly as Monkey brushed his forehead against hers, a puff of his silent laugh ghosting her lips.

“I was waiting, but you two were just staring at each other so you couldn’t have been that busy,” Rén answered.

“It must be important,” Monkey said, his purr tickling her ear and igniting another blush. “We can always pick this up later.”

Rén bobbed his head at her and took off deeper into the trees, clearly expecting her to follow.

“Sorry…” Tripitaka muttered to Monkey, who just chuckled again and pecked a kiss on the top of her head. “I’ll be back.”

“Take this then,” Monkey said, shrugging off his jacket and pulling it around her shoulders.

“Monkey, we’re in Hoenn. It’s not cold out,” Tripitaka protested, but slid her arms in the too-long sleeves regardless, his comforting smell already wrapping around her.

“Humor me. It’s cold in the trees,” Monkey fussed, smoothing the collar. “I’ll be right here.”

Another hoot called from the trees, and Tripitaka gave Monkey one last apologetic look before hustling after Rén before she could say something completely stupid in front of him. “Yes, yes, I’m coming…”

Rén led her quite some ways into the forest well-lit by moonlight, stopping every so often and swooping back to make sure she was following. Monkey had been right; the air was significantly colder amongst the tall trees, and it did a good job clearing her heady thoughts. She still was reeling that Monkey had wanted to kiss her, and it made her reevaluate everything he had ever said and done up to this point. When had he started to feel that way, she wondered.

The real question here was when she had started to develop feelings towards Monkey, and she found she didn’t know the answer. But even still, did it actually matter? Part of her wanted to say it didn’t, but the logical part of her mind wanted to categorize her feelings and place them into neat boxes and make sense of the scrambled feeling in her chest.

After Rén finally landed, quite some distance away from the others in a clearing bleached white by the full moon, Tripitaka approached him on the stump he had chosen for a perch, standing at about his eye level.

“What’s going on?” she asked. Maybe he wanted a training session.

“I just…” Rén swiveled his head to stare at something behind him. “I don’t hate you.”

Tripitaka blinked, eyes widening. “Oh, Rén, I… I know that. Sandy just misread the situation-”

“She’s right. I’m not like your other Pokémon.”

Tripitaka shook her head. “I wouldn’t ever ask you to be. I’m perfectly happy with you as you are, and you don’t have to apologize for being yourself.”

“But I do have to apologize for how I’ve treated you. Troy would want me to,” he replied, one eye blinking. “I wasn’t being fair to you.”

Tripitaka held up a hand. “It’s really okay. I understand you were going through a hard time! You had a lot of new feelings to work through, being suddenly taken away from your partner. Even if he didn’t mean it to hurt, I know it did.” She looked down, thinking about their entire journey together. “I had a lot of things to work through as well.” She glanced up at Rén again, who tilted his head. “I know I wasn’t the trainer you wanted, and I wasn’t the best choice, but you helped me grow in ways I never could have imagined. And for that, I’m so grateful to you.”

“You aren’t Troy,” Rén said with a surprisingly soft hoot.

Tripitaka chuckled. “I think we’ve long established that by now.”

“Yes,” the owl spoke. “But in a lot of ways you’re just like him. You…” Rén slowly blinked, and Tripitaka let him mull over his words. “You weren’t the trainer I wanted.”

“I’ll admit it; I felt the same way about you,” Tripitaka interjected lightly. “But-”

“But you were the one I needed.”

His simple statement sent a shiver of warmth down Tripitaka’s spine like nothing else in her life, and she didn’t know how to reply, just standing there with Rén, as equals.

“I…” Tripitaka swallowed the lump in her throat. “Once I’m at my internship, I think Troy will be more than happy to see you again. And I know he’s proud of you, too. But until that day comes…” She glanced down as a burning tear escaped from her eye. “I’m glad that you’re with me, Rén.”

The Hoothoot shuffled on his feet, suddenly looking awkward “That means a lot,” he finally muttered.

Tripitaka remained where she was, just basking in Rén’s presence, and finding his discomfort at expressing any sort of emotions to be adorable, and reminded her a bit of Monkey. Monkey, who was probably still waiting for them to get back. Tripitaka’s hand wandered up to her lips, heart fluttering again.

Rén’s expression hardened, and his head swiveled to look off into the trees, feathers starting to puff up.

“What’s wrong?” Tripitaka asked, but faltered when Silver and Absol stepped into the moonlight. “What are you doing here?” she asked, heart immediately racing.

“Finally, you’re alone,” Silver grumbled. Rén spread his wings and hissed at him. “Took you long enough.”

“How did you find us?” Tripitaka breathed, backing closer to Rén. Silver shrugged, twirling a capped syringe around his fingers. Tripitaka’s heart sank. “You put the tracking chip in Sage. Back when we first met,” she realized.

“A little sleight of hand goes a long way,” he said with a smugness that turned Tripitaka’s stomach. “I’m also good at my job.”

Tripitaka squeezed her trembling hands into fists. “Whatever job it is, whatever you want with Monkey, you’re not going to have an easy time with it. You’re going to have to go through me,” she declared in a voice that didn’t sound like her own. That was quite a statement that she wasn’t sure she could actually back up, but Rén let out a screech, scratching the bark beneath his talons, and with him at her side, she felt like she could do anything.

Silver scoffed. “Monkey? Whoever said I was here for him?”

Dread snaked through Tripitaka’s feet until its tendrils squeezed her ribs and her mind buzzed in alarm. All this time, he was after her?

“Rén, go and get Monkey,” she commanded, the entire time filling her thoughts with help in hopes Echo would overhear despite the distance away from their campsite.

“Trap them.”

Absol growled, eyes gleaming with that awful Mean Look move, but Rén hadn’t even bothered to try taking off from his perch, swaying back and forth as a silent threat. He wasn’t going to leave her alone. There was nothing to do but to battle, but there was no way Rén could beat Absol in a straight fight, was there?

“Hypnosis!” she blurted out. Maybe if they put Absol to sleep they could escape?

Rén stared daggers at the white beast, eyes glinting with the usual crimson hypnotic suggestion to fall asleep. Absol wrenched its gaze away, approaching with a growl. Rén hissed, irritated at the move’s failure.

“Thunder Wave,” Silver commanded in a cold, clinical voice.

Tiny skittering sparks of electricity danced around Absol’s head scythe as Rén braced himself, preparing to dodge, but Absol shot the electricity not at the owl, but at Tripitaka. Every single muscle seized up and she thudded to the ground, twitching and gasping as her spasming diaphragm struggled to pull in full breaths of air. Rén hooted in alarm and landed on her shoulder, talons squeezing tightly, puffing out to his full size and hissing, spreading his wings wide, swaying low and close to her arms.

“R’n… run,” Tripitaka managed to force out through her locked jaw.

Rén ignored her, unleashing a challenging screech, not letting go of her shoulder, but frantically trying to pull her limbs behind him with his beak, getting more and more distressed when he couldn’t fully cover her.

To try and hide her. He was mantling, protecting something precious to him.

“Back. Off,” Rén hissed as Absol took a step forward. “I’m warning you.”

“Or what?” Absol growled, swinging its blade and smacking into Rén’s body. He didn’t once let go of Tripitaka’s shoulder, digging in that much harder as he flapped to regain balance, hisses turning into frenzied screeches as he jabbed at Absol with his beak.

It wasn’t enough, Tripitaka realized, the twitching muscles easing so she could pull in some more filling gasps. Rén wasn’t big enough to fully hide her away, even for a Hoothoot as big as he was.

“Rén, please…” she whispered, tears in her eyes.

She managed to roll her head back to try and look up at him, to plead for him to not get hurt on her behalf, but his face was resolute, a sudden deadly calm filling his expression.

His entire body flashed white, a piercing, blinding shine that would put the very sun to shame melting his features into pure light as Rén let out a screech that changed to a deeper pitch as his body almost tripled in size and transformed, and Tripitaka’s heart stopped as Troy’s words he once told her entered her thoughts.

“Pokémon and humans, two completely different and separate life forms, have forged a partnership unlike anything else in this world. It is through this bond of friendship that human lives are enriched and made whole, and where Pokémon can accomplish truly amazing things they couldn’t on their own power simply by answering a human’s most fervent wish. It truly is a relationship which draws the best out of both worlds.”

Absol stopped dead in its tracks and hung back, knowing there was nothing it could do as Rén was temporarily protected in the evolutionary glow. The light vanished, and Rén hissed again, in a much more intimidating voice, his foot larger than her head squeezing her shoulder and his wings entirely covered her body, completely hiding her away.

“Last chance,” Rén hissed. “Go. Away.”

“Evolving won’t save you, or your trainer,” Silver said, voice muffled by the wall of Rén’s feathers. “Get rid of it.”

Absol snarled and Rén lurched back as Absol slammed into him. Rén flapped his wings with enough force to partially get Tripitaka airborne as he lashed out at Absol with his broad wings, slamming Tripitaka back into the ground, knocking the wind out of her as his powerful talons squeezed her shoulder in a death grip with enough force to send screaming, crushing, grinding agony through her entire arm and cause her to nearly white out from the shock. Absol lunged again and Rén’s screech turned into almost a roar, sending a shockwave through the clearing and sending Silver staggering back as he lashed out with his free foot.

Something wet splattered the ground and Absol screamed in a nonstop blood chilling howl and collapsed with a thump, fangs bared in a grotesque shriek, a paw digging at its bloody mess of a face. Bile rose in Tripitaka’s throat at the scene, and she fought to move her dead limbs, maybe she could help- Silver was yelling, the screaming Absol disappearing in a red blob back into its Pokéball, a green blur appeared and Rén was torn off her back from Silver’s roaring Scyther.

All went deathly silent as she heard a muffled thud, and Scyther stood next to her, a bloodied blade held to her throat with a cold fury in its eyes. Silver unleashed his Fearow, and threw Tripitaka over its back like she weighed nothing, stabbing her in the neck with a small syringe and jumping on behind her and commanding the bird to fly, face twisted in a wrath fierce enough to bring more tears to Tripitaka’s eyes.

“Rén… no…” Tripitaka could only whisper as the bird gained altitude and left the clearing behind. The only thing she could see before darkness overtook her vision was a growing pool of blood around what was left of Rén’s body.

If I wanted to leave
I would’ve left by now
But you’re the only one that knows me
Better than I know myself

Chapter Text

The world was a hazy blur of fear and uncertainty. As well as a nondescript ball of pain, but that wasn’t as important as the nagging sense something was terribly, horribly wrong.

Tripitaka’s eyelids managed to peel open in a herculean effort, feeling like they each weighed a ton. The room she was in was dim, and a soft ball of cream colored fur was lying near her hand.

“Sage?” Tripitaka croaked, reaching out for what she thought was the Eevee’s tail, freezing with an involuntary whimper as her shoulder burst into pain with the movement. She only just noticed her arm was in a sling. The shape raised itself off the white sheets and looked at her with twin ruby colored eyes that Tripitaka couldn’t tell if they were friendly or not. It took her a moment to realize the ball of fur was actually a Ninetales’ head. She withdrew her hand, although the movement felt sluggish as she tested the range of movement she had before her shoulder cried out to stop. “I’m so sorry; I mistook you for someone else…”

The fox Pokémon rested its head on the mattress where her hand had been, watching her. Tripitaka reached her other hand out for the Ninetales to delicately sniff, nudging its head the size of Sage’s body into her palm and then returning to where it was resting, not taking its eyes off of her.

Who did she know that had a Ninetales? She wracked her brain but Tripitaka couldn’t remember ever encountering one.

The door opened, and a man wearing scrubs and an overly cheerful smile walked in. “Oh, fantastic, you’re awake! Thank you for looking after our intern, Nutmeg.”

The Ninetales yawned and gave itself a thorough shake, then trotted over to the corner by the door and sat down, each of the long, luxurious tails swishing after it. Tripitaka now understood the near-universal temptation of grabbing one of those fluffy tails, even if it was taboo and could end up with a merciless curse placed upon her. Each of the orange-tipped tails were just… too soft and inviting to simply not pet.

The man shone a pen light into her eyes and typed several notes onto his tablet. “Yes, that’s Nutmeg; she’s a great help to our team, loves pets. Great listener. Can’t tell you how many problems I’ve solved just by talking to her.”

“What… team?” Tripitaka asked haltingly. Was it something she should’ve known already? Why did it feel like she was missing something?

The man closed his eyes, touching his forehead. “Ah! My mistake. I’m so sorry, Tripitaka, I should’ve opened with that.” He pulled up a stool and sat down next to her bed, giant smile softened but still present, eyes serious. “I’m Doctor Riley, and you’re in a safe place. You were attacked during your travels to your internship in Orre, do you remember?”

She nodded, although she wasn’t sure what he meant about being attacked. Her shoulder sling indicated an injury, but she couldn’t remember what caused it.

“Don’t be alarmed if you can’t remember everything right away. Your head might be a bit fuzzy from the pain medication and head injury, but it should come back in time. Horrible business, that.”

“What attacked me?” Tripitaka asked. “My shoulder…”

Doctor Riley laid a hand on her uninjured shoulder. “You are so brave,” he informed her. “Your shoulder was dislocated but it has been reset; all that’s left over is some really deep bruising. Nasty Altaria it was, trying to drag you away. Some bad people were trying to stop you from getting to your internship. We’re still figuring out their exact reasons, but we know your work here is tantamount, so they were probably trying to stop it for whatever nefarious deeds they have in store. We had to step in and pull you from the field, so we apologize for the inconvenience.”

Tripitaka blinked. “You… knew where I was? I could’ve been pulled from the field at any time?” She found her gaze being drawn to Nutmeg, who tilted her head. Also she didn’t remember any sign of an Altaria at all. Actually, she didn’t remember anything from last night either, now that she thought about it with a growing sense of nausea.

“Of course. All the potential interns were being tracked to ensure your safety. All of this was to see how each candidate handled fieldwork, but for the purposes of the test we couldn’t disclose that information.”

Tripitaka was unsure how she felt about that.

Doctor Riley went on, “The other intern candidates have already been recalled due to safety concerns; you were the last one. Rest assured, this will not impact your standing.”

Her standing?

She wanted to ask, but glanced around at the room. “Where are my Pokémon? And my belongings…?”

He nodded slowly, reassuring smile not doing much to put a dent into her unease. “In our haste to recall you from the attack, your belongings were left behind, but you will be provided with everything you need here. As for your Pokémon, they are also safe. Rén has returned to Sprout Tower, and your other Pokémon are being kept at our Pokémon resort with the state of the art luxury holding center for some well-deserved rest. There they’ll get the best food and care from our well-trained professionals. You’ll see them once you’re more settled in and familiar with how things are run around here.”

Sage would probably enjoy some time off. And Rén… Well, Doctor Riley had mispronounced the Hoothoot’s name, but it made sense the only data the internship had to go off of was from her emails. But she did feel a bit disappointed he hadn’t bothered to say goodbye to her or she could send Troy a message with him, but supposed he was eager to leave, so it was for the best. As long as he was happy.

“I’m pleased to report you are cleared to begin work right away!” Doctor Riley proclaimed, beaming. “I’ll call someone to begin your orientation. Welcome to Orre and to our little family… I’m sure you’re eager to get started.”

To tell the truth, Tripitaka would much rather go back to sleep and start her orientation when her head was less muddled and her thoughts were clear again, but the internship was too important to appear lazy on her first day. She’d power through it.

Before long, another employee with a name badge clipped to a lanyard introduced herself (to which Tripitaka entirely forgot her name within seconds) and led her around the facility after a few minutes of wobbly walking to show where she’d be working for the duration of the internship (and hopefully beyond!) the woman had gushed.

The first stop had been the intern dormitory, which was lined with plain beds made up of simple sheets and a singular pillow with a desk beside them and very little privacy. Someone was already in there, a guy about her age with a mop of thin orange hair and a smiling face that was simply covered in freckles all over. He scooped up his forearm crutches and hustled over to her, extending a hand.

“Finally I’ve got some company again! I’m Stefan! I’m the most recent intern aside from you,” he greeted with a faint Kalosian accent, pushing up his glasses. “I’m from Santalune City.”

“Tripitaka, from Violet City,” she answered politely. At least someone here was familiar with small town vibes. Violet City wasn’t a small town by any stretch of the imagination, but growing up in a tiny community like Sprout Tower was more like Santalune City than not. “If you’re the most recent intern, where is everyone else?” she asked, glancing at the vacant beds.

“You’ll have to forgive us; we were still in the process of renovating your individual rooms when you were pulled from the field. This dormitory is a temporary situation, we assure you,” Tripitaka’s guide said with an apologetic bow. “Shall we continue?”

With a farewell to Stefan (who eagerly promised to introduce her to the other interns later), Tripitaka followed her guide down the confusing hallways, trying to pay attention to the layout but getting utterly lost since the hallways all looked exactly the same, gray and lit by the same irritating fluorescent lights. The next stop was the commissary for various items she could purchase with an employee discount since the nearest town was too far to make regular trips to buy necessities. Then she was shown the cafeteria where loads of people in various uniforms were eating and speaking in low voices, where Tripitaka was informed her food stipend would be taken out of her salary. She hadn’t remembered that little detail from the offer letter, but figured it was normal for large research facilities like this one.

On the opposite side of the commissary and cafeteria down another nondescript hall was the training ground for all the security Pokémon and guards. (You won’t need to worry about coming here; we just want to demonstrate how safe you are. No research facility has better training.) The training ground was broken into several wide rooms of various terrains and a scoreboard ranking all the Pokémon, some of which were sparring or doing specialized strength training.

A little Mienfoo caught her eye, sparring nearby with a much larger Scrafty. The Mienfoo’s ears were tattered to the point of barely being considered stumps, one of which looked fresh, and a pang of sympathy gripped Tripitaka’s heart. Mienfoo stopped its movements and looked at Tripitaka, who couldn’t help but feel a sense of familiarity with it, but couldn’t remember why she felt that way. Mienfoo’s puzzled gaze hardened and almost looked disappointed before the Scrafty boxed her ears with a sharp growl and Mienfoo went back to drilling with reinvigorated determination.

“That over there is our head of security,” Tripitaka’s guide said, directing her attention to a tall man with long, near-white colored hair standing in the corner overseeing the Pokémon. He was the first human Tripitaka had seen so far that wasn’t in a good mood. In fact, he seemed rather out of it, dispassionately watching the Pokémon drill and saying nothing.

“He seems familiar,” Tripitaka blurted out, regretting it instantly. Her goal today had been to observe and to stay quiet, but her mouth had betrayed her.

“He should be,” her guide replied with a smile. “He’s the one that rescued you. You should feel honored; he was personally dispatched by the Professor. Your situation needed… a more experienced touch.”

“Would he mind if I stopped by and thanked him later?” Tripitaka asked. Hopefully that would send a good message to the people in charge.

“Of course not. But let’s get you settled in first,” she replied, guiding her out of the training facility. Tripitaka didn’t look back, but she had an uncanny feeling she was being watched.

---

“And here we are at my office, human resources,” Danielle said. Tripitaka finally managed to catch her name when they were touring the private intern dorms that Tripitaka was going to move in to once renovations were completed. “I hope you don’t feel too overwhelmed!”

“It was fine; I’m just eager to get started,” Tripitaka lied. Each well-stocked laboratory and data processing rooms had impressed her, but she wasn’t looking forward to navigating the expansive facility on her own. Maybe she’d have to wake up extra early to be able to stumble her way into where she was supposed to be…

Danielle winked at her. “I know that look. You can relax.” Tripitaka was presented with a data pad. “This has a map of the facility programmed in and can give directions. You can store all your research notes and scheduling and what have you here. Repair and replacement fees will come out of your paycheck if necessary.”

Tripitaka took it with a faint frown. She had no idea how she could lose it if this was her only possession at the moment, but figured it was a stock phrase that HR was supposed to say.

“And now, here’s everyone’s favorite part,” Danielle said, sitting Tripitaka down on the opposite side of her desk. “Paperwork.”

Tripitaka and Danielle spent the next hour and a half going over stacks of onboarding paperwork and the employee handbook. After a while Tripitaka gave up on reading the reasons why she was signing, just initialing each indicated box to get the process over with. They went over her time and attendance expectations, as well as her salary. Tripitaka noted that after room and board and the food stipend, only a truly pitiful amount was left over, but Danielle assured her that she was being paid in experience and this was normal for interns. Tripitaka didn’t want to ruffle any feathers or sound too demanding, so she let it be for now. This was all temporary, anyway. She’d surely get the experience here to get a better job elsewhere.

“Alright, that wraps up our paperwork,” Danielle said, leaning back with a smile. Tripitaka glanced at the clock. The workday was almost over; maybe she would have time to poke her head into one of the laboratories and get a closer look at what projects were going on. “There’s one last thing before I turn you loose, Tripitaka… I know; it’s always one more thing around here.”

“And that is?”

“Sexual harassment training. It’s mandatory.”

“Oh. Right,” Tripitaka replied, feeling her ears turn red.

The cubicle they parked Tripitaka in had an old flickering monitor and zero volume control, for which Tripitaka felt bad for the employees not four feet away trying to do their work as the screen blared at an uncomfortable volume for probably the entire facility to hear about how SEXUAL HARASSMENT would not be TOLERATED in any WAY, SHAPE or FORM and here is a list of what SEXUAL HARASSMENT could look like that went on for what seemed like an eternity.

Tripitaka fervently hoped the people around her didn’t suspect she was a harassment offender or anything. Then again, they probably had to go through the same thing. When Danielle finally came back to collect her, she asked how the training was, which gave Tripitaka pause, her brain trying to grasp onto a memory as slippery as an eel. All she could think of was a pool and maybe a joke about unnecessary roughness? Was it a crude joke? Or was she happy at the time?

“I just feel like I’ve been harassed before. But I can’t remember where or how,” she realized, trying to tamp down the simmering panic of not remembering the context behind the emotions.

Danielle nodded. “Trauma does that. Sign the dotted line acknowledging you’ve heard and understood the content of this training.”

“Of course,” Tripitaka said, scribbling her signature onto the offered paper.

“Okay, so you’re all set to begin work tomorrow. I’ll escort you back to the dorms and you can meet the other interns; they’ve been eager to meet you.”

Tripitaka nodded, allowing herself to be led through the halls once again. The people that all passed by gave her polite nods and greetings and introductions from those she hadn’t met yet, but the scant Pokémon they encountered didn’t so much as acknowledge her, aside from flicking their gazes down and keeping quiet. She almost found herself longing for Rén’s scornful dismissal as opposed to being outright ignored. There was probably a good reason for their reticence, she reasoned; they probably had tasks to do and she didn’t want to distract them.

Danielle opened the door to the main dorms and ushered her inside where a handful of interns about her age were waiting. “And here I’ll leave you. Stefan will be your buddy for a few days to get you settled in, but my office is just down the hall, second right, four hallways to the left, across the cafeteria, another left, then the second hallway past the storage closet. Okay?” Tripitaka opened her mouth to reply, but Danielle bowed. “Work hard and best of luck. Welcome aboard, Tripitaka.”

Suddenly uncomfortable at the new pairs of eyes watching her, she longed for Sage to hold to her chest to act as a sort of barrier, but reminded herself she could handle it alone for a while. Just until she settled in. She tried to be casual in her approach, her good hand squeezing at her side.

Stefan brightened when he saw her. “Tripitaka! Welcome! Come meet everyone!” The interns all clustered around her before she could second-guess herself and greeted her enthusiastically as Stefan held up a tray of various items that Tripitaka was relieved to see, like toiletries, a phone charger, some basic office supplies, lots of snacks, an extra blanket and pillow, and some more unexpected things like a bottle of soy sauce and what appeared to be caffeine pills. “We all pitched in and got you some stuff you might need to get started here since you came with nothing. Extra pillow is mandatory; the ones they give us are all really thin. And the soy sauce is for the cafeteria; they don’t season their food that much. But yeah, we raided the commissary and vending machines, and any extra stuff we had from our own supplies are yours, just ask.”

“Thank you so much,” Tripitaka breathed, relieved she didn’t have to start from nothing.

One of the tall and lanky interns who introduced themselves as Asher from Lavaridge Town patted her good arm. “We interns have got to stick together. I… was going to lend you one of my spare hairbrushes, but I don’t think you’ll need it,” they said with a nervous chuckle. Tripitaka allowed them to feel her buzz cut and she complimented their long, well-kept locks of mousy brown hair.

Stefan she already knew, and the two other girls introduced themselves as Julie and Nadiya, each from Nimbasa City and Castelia City, respectively. Julie seemed flighty, like she was ready to leap out of her thin build at the drop of a hat, but had a polite smile lighting her plain but fair features, her black hair tied into a ponytail. Tripitaka was more drawn to Nadiya, who had a look that seemed more genuinely welcoming, seeing her as a friend more than potential competition. She had a port-wine stain on her cheek, and her tidy headscarf matched the color in a way that Tripitaka was sure was intentional.

Masato, who just mumbled he was from Kanto, said a hasty greeting and withdrew from the group.

“And there goes his social battery. Masato is even shyer than Asher,” Stefan chuckled. “I think he’s Professor Oak’s relative or something.”

“He works really hard,” Nadiya agreed. “But we don’t see him much, so don’t take it personally.”

Tripitaka shook her head. As long as everyone did their part and didn’t cause any drama she was sure she’d get along well with everyone. What puzzled her more was that there were only six of them in total. Were only the six selected? Or was it this group the only ones who had made it along the journey?

Where was Gaxin?

She couldn’t decide if his absence was a relief or worrisome.

“So tell us about yourself, Tripitaka,” Julie giggled, interrupting her thoughts. “Tell us about how the head of security had to dramatically rescue you!”

“Julie, she’s probably really tired,” Nadiya scolded. “Even though I’m dying to find out,” she admitted.

“Not much to tell…” Tripitaka said. “I’m still trying to piece everything together myself. I get little flashes, but I don’t even remember how my arm got hurt.”

Stefan waved her off. “It’ll come to you, no worries. But more importantly, I have one thing to ask you.”

“Oh, here we go…” Nadiya groaned. “Brace yourself. He’s given the presentation to everyone.”

“Yes?” Tripitaka asked cautiously.

“Have you heard of my Gogoat?” Stefan asked with a grin, holding up his laptop to show her a picture that must’ve been staged, with a splendid Gogoat framed in golden hour lighting standing before a flowering field. “He’s got a following on social media and loads of sponsorships.”

Tripitaka shook her head. She wasn’t one to follow individual Pokémon fan accounts, anyway.

Stefan’s nod was solemn. “I forgive you.”

He set his laptop down on the mattress and stood next to it, and Asher clicked to the next slide on the PowerPoint with another picture of Gogoat, this one in a cuter pose. Clearly Stefan did this presentation to everyone he met. He dramatically pointed his forearm crutch to the screen.

“This is my partner and best friend, registered under His Majesty Greenleaf von Silvanhoof Vision of Spring G.O.A.T-Goat, although I just call him Gogoat. He has a shit-ton of other nicknames, so if you hear me say Gogo, Googoo, Gigi, Gaga, my brother Gege-”

Asher dutifully clicked through each slide with each new name.

“-That’s who I’m talking about. A name… is just the main branch of the tree and every name is a beautiful leaf, much like the leaves on Gogi’s back.”

Tripitaka chuckled. Stefan was certainly enthusiastic about his partner, who she learned in the course of the lengthy presentation they’d been paired up since Stefan was eight. She couldn’t wait to meet this Pokémon. She vaguely recalled seeing some Gogoat and their pre-evolution Skiddo at Moomoo Farm, but Stefan’s Gogoat looked a lot more fancy and well-bred, built for work and yet could moonlight as a contest star.

What else had happened when she visited the farm that day? Hadn’t she been with someone?

“Tripitaka?” Stefan asked. “I think I lost you for a minute there.”

Tripitaka shook her head to clear it of the cobwebs. “You did, sorry. But you have me now.”

The other interns looked sympathetic. “We understand,” Asher said. “The first few days were rough for all of us, so don’t be hard on yourself.”

Tripitaka nodded to Stefan, asking him to continue and get the attention away from her, although Asher’s statement gave her pause before she put that aside. Stefan beamed.

“Now I know that you may not believe this since not all disabilities are visible…” Stefan gestured with his crutches to which Tripitaka smiled. “But I am disabled. Gogoat acted as my legs for pretty much this entire trip, and I owe everything to him. He’s perfect in every way. And I adore him.”

“Couldn’t tell at all,” Julie said, grinning.

Stefan cheekily shut his laptop. “Thank you for attending my TedTalk about my Gege.”

“No, no, thank you,” Tripitaka emphasized with a laugh. She waited until everyone quieted down before asking, “So, what projects are we working on around here? What research?”

“Mostly we’ve been assisting the scientists around here with minor projects while we waited for everyone,” Nadiya replied. “But the real project begins tomorrow. They’re going to give us all a briefing at the morning meeting; everyone has been rather tight lipped about it, so it’s a surprise.”

Huh. Tripitaka would’ve thought that if the project was so important everyone would be working on it as fast as possible, but then again, her preconceived notions about lab work from her experience with Professor Elm were clearly incorrect. Or maybe she was too used to small labs, and this was how larger facilities worked.

“Well I wouldn’t get too comfortable with everyone,” Julie said, sitting back. “We’re on the same team, but we are rivals.”    

The other interns groaned. “Way to kill the mood, Julie…” Stefan muttered and Nadiya made a scolding sound.

Tripitaka frowned. “What do you mean?”

“We’re all competing to be the next official hire,” Julie replied, seemingly puzzled at Tripitaka’s question, grabbing her tablet and holding it up. On the main screen was a small leaderboard with all of the intern names on it, currently in alphabetical order and dashes to indicate numerical values that weren’t there yet. It reminded Tripitaka of the board in the Pokémon training rooms. “I mean, we all were told this was first come, first served in our offer letters, so it makes sense, doesn’t it?”

It had been a while since Tripitaka had read the letter, but didn’t it also say something about trying to avoid rivalries?

“Well, yeah, that may be true,” Nadiya conceded, “But a major part of research is collaboration. The work won’t get done if we’re all sabotaging each other.”

“I never said I was going to do that!” Julie exclaimed with a scandalized expression. “All I was saying is that it stands to reason if the top of the leaderboard is a reward, the bottom means a penalty. Like being sent home.”

“After all the work they put in to get us here?” Stefan replied doubtfully. “They need all hands on deck.”

“Maybe it’s just a friendly competition,” Asher suggested. They frowned, mouth quirking. “How would the points be distributed, anyway?”

Nadiya waved everyone off. “It does us no good to speculate on data we simply don’t have. We’ll find out tomorrow. But if there is a competition…” She gave everyone a level stare, lingering on Julie. “I think it’s a stupid thing for our superiors to implement, and we all should just be the best research assistants we can possibly be and let the quality of our work speak for itself.”

“Yeah, good research gets bogged down with drama and fishing for results that you want instead of what it really is,” Stefan noted. “I’ve heard of entire studies being thrown out because of bias and data getting skewed on purpose to look good to management.”

“So we all agree?” Julie piped up, holding out a fist. “No drama, just teamwork, come what may?”

Tripitaka was the first to extend a hand to bump into Julie’s, everyone following suit and cheering. “Let’s just do our best.”

Despite not knowing what tomorrow would bring, Tripitaka loved this new comradery with her new friends and feeling like she belonged to something once again, even if she wasn’t completely sure of what she had before that this new family of interns was replacing.

It’s a long way now
From where I used to rest my head
It’s safe and sound if only I could turn around
There’s no direction where I stand
Just dead end signs and wasted land

It’s a long way now to you

Chapter Text

Despite the extra pillow and blanket, Tripitaka slept miserably.

She woke up from her fitful sleep exhausted and hurting all over, not just her bad shoulder, and couldn’t entirely blame the accommodations of the dorm for her discomfort. Something about being in a new place didn’t let her settle, and so she had tossed and turned all night. Stefan had graciously allowed her to go first for the communal showers, saying he’d run and get breakfast for as long as she needed, but despite being first, the water was either scalding hot or freezing cold with no in between. The bedsheets were painfully starched, and the thin pillows did nothing to prop up her now stiff neck, not to mention the nearly-empty room was too quiet. She missed the sounds of nocturnal Pokémon noises and Sage purring and Echo humming and her companions snoring.

The last thought gave her pause, but before she could chase it down to examine it, the thought disappeared like a wisp of campfire smoke.

Now she had to struggle to pay attention to the morning staff meeting. The cafeteria didn’t have any of the teas she liked (or any in general) so she had to settle for the watery, burnt-tasting coffee from the communal pot as her caffeine source instead. Maybe this is why the interns had given her caffeine pills…

“We are aware in your offer letters you would be reporting directly to the Professor,” one of the researchers, who had introduced himself as Elrok, droned on. “However, due to the urgency of our work, Professor Ginkgo has delegated the work to us. Be assured, he is tracking your progress and watching the leaderboards carefully.”

Nadiya and Tripitaka exchanged a glance, equally puzzled.

“The leaderboard stands as a reminder of our commitment to quality, effort, and collaboration,” Elrok continued. “The interns at the top will be rewarded with more… interesting tasks than the ones at the bottom.”

“How are points awarded?” Asher asked in a hesitant voice.

“Performance in the laboratory, adherence to rules and regulations, and willingness to learn,” was the non-descript reply. Tripitaka felt more confused than ever. “It’s nothing to be concerned about as long as you do your best. It’s more for our benefit than yours.”

Then why was it displayed so prominently for everyone to see?

“Back to the topic at hand… The main crux of our research here was kept secretive for a reason.” Elrok paused for effect, looking at each of the interns in turn. “Shadow Pokémon.”

Masato swallowed hard, and everyone looked either blank and confused, or uncomfortable.

“That was just a rumor,” Julie replied, brow furrowed. “It’s not possible.”

“To the outside world a mere rumor, but here in Orre, a very somber reality,” Elrok said. “Five years ago, the criminal syndicate called Cipher unleashed a small army of Pokémon upon the region. These Pokémon were… corrupted, for lack of a better term. They were mindless, powerful beyond normal limitations of their species, and completely devoid of emotion, only existing to indiscriminately attack where directed, even against humans.”

“How is such a procedure possible?” Tripitaka dared to ask. “Wouldn’t some Pokémon be resistant to mind control?”

“Excellent question. However, the process of creating Shadow Pokémon does not involve mere mind control, as dark and psychic types are just as vulnerable to the process as any other Pokémon. However, it would appear that their memories and emotions are sealed away or blocked, as opposed to outright erasure, which is not possible. What we currently know about Shadow Pokémon and the process of purification, slow and painstaking as it may be, has been downloaded to your tablets, which you can read at your leisure.”

“So what exactly are we researching with so much secrecy then?” Julie said with a frown. “We know a decent amount about Shadow Pokémon already, don’t we?”

“There are rumors that the same syndicate has recovered and are starting the process anew,” he replied. He pushed up his glasses. “The only difference this time is that we have received reports that the process of creating Shadow Pokémon has been perfected, to the point of being able to mass-produce them.”

Tripitaka’s heart stopped. The mere idea of treating Pokémon like products from a factory made her skin crawl.

“You’ve all heard of the rumors about criminals stealing Pokémon and overriding their Pokéball registration codes, also known as the process of snagging,” Elrok continued. “We believe the rash of snagging reports correlates to the rise of the syndicate preparing to build another Shadow Pokémon army.”

“The S.S. Libra,” Tripitaka blurted out without thinking. Everyone looked at her, puzzled. She really wished she could take the outburst back. “A ship full of Pokémon went missing not too long ago,” she added hesitantly. “Do you think they’re connected?”

She didn’t know why the knowledge suddenly bubbled up to the surface. Maybe she’d seen it somewhere on TV during her travels.

The researcher’s face was neutral, and Tripitaka suddenly felt small and uncomfortable at the attention everyone was giving her. “I do not know anything about a missing ship. But if this is true, then it’s not outside the realm of possibility to consider.”

“Are we… researching ways to speed up the purification process? Like… mass producing a cure to counter the mass production of Shadow Pokémon?” Nadiya ventured, sounding hopeful.

“Yes,” came the reply. “But unfortunately, there’s still so much we don’t know. We are here as behaviorists and biologists to, in a sense, craft theories and delve deeper into the process and results themselves. The more we know, the more we can help the Pokémon heal.”

Tripitaka’s heart raced at the prospect. They could help so many Pokémon out this way! She might even learn about his Pokémon and where they were-

Her thoughts stopped in their tracks. Who was her mind trying to conjure up? Whose Pokémon? The thought seemed so familiar, like part of her knew what she was thinking of, but the name and face was partitioned off, lost in a swirl of confusion. It was like when she immediately forgot the HR lady’s name before she remembered it later (although admittedly she had already forgotten it once again). Either way, she was going to help everyone, not just the mysterious occupant of her thoughts.

“Tripitaka? Are you coming?” Julie asked, prodding her shoulder.

Tripitaka hadn’t realized everyone was filing towards the door and she had remained seated. “Oh, yes, I am. Going where…?”

“They’re going to introduce us to the main study subject we’ll be working with,” Julie replied, pulling Tripitaka to her feet.

“I’ll admit, I was dozing off a bit at the end too,” Nadiya whispered, hanging back to walk with the two of them. “I’m excited for the work, but just talking about it is rather dull. Especially since Elrok is just some guy they chose to talk to us; he’s not even our supervisor.”

Tripitaka had to agree. Although she had to admit, her thoughts were a little more disjointed of late. It was probably just due to adjusting to a new environment, but she longed for the days when she could think with perfect clarity again, or even just be fully relaxed. There was uncertainty on the road and during her journey of course, but here, she couldn’t shake an ambiguous uneasiness that resided in the pit of her stomach that she was missing something.

“Where did you get that jacket?” Julie asked, feeling the soft fabric just starting to pill from use. “I love oversized clothes; must be so comfy.”

Tripitaka wracked her brain, still at a loss for a name to assign to the familiarity in her mind. “A friend,” she decided, unable to elaborate. The jacket had been yet another puzzle piece to her muddled mind when she had first woken up. But she was glad she had it with her; the facility was rather chilly, and the way it wrapped around her felt like it was hiding her from all of the glances from the other researchers and employees. Not to mention the inexplicably familiar scent that wafted up from the sleeves when she stood up or when the fabric rustled felt like home, a grounding comfort that made her feel like it was all going to be alright, even if her circumstances were uncertain. She sometimes found herself breathing in its scent, hoping it would jog a memory or a puzzle piece would slot into place, but it never happened. The only thing she could do was keep moving forward.

Before long, the group arrived at a lab that had been originally locked, a warning sign on the door. Their guide swiped a card and held the door open after a beep, ushering them inside and directing them up a metal grated spiraling staircase.

Stefan had understandably grumbled the entire way up, insisting he was fine, just slow-going, bemoaning the entire time that Gogoat would have made it so much easier.

“We could install a pulley and bucket system for next time,” Asher offered. “Surely with a budget like this place they’d install an elevator…”

The interns were hushed and led into a viewing gallery platform overlooking a spacious enclosure below. Numbers and charts too far away to fully make out flashed on the reinforced glass window panes in addition to the rows of computer monitors. Scientists were bustling around, some stopping to greet the interns but others ignoring them to focus on whatever they were doing.

“And now we will direct your attention to our number one subject for this entire project,” Elrok said. He glanced at another employee. “Is he okay for visitors?”

“He’s very calm today. It’s time for breakfast, so that’ll also be a distraction,” she replied without looking up from her keyboard.

Tripitaka and the interns were craning their necks down into the enclosure, trying to get a glimpse of what was in there, guessing what Pokémon would suit the simulated environment best. The enclosure, while relatively flat, had several rocks jutting out of the terrain, young trees and spots of grass dotting the rocky ground with a small stream running near the edge closest to the viewing gallery. It reminded her of the mountain she had trekked through soon after beginning her adventure. She shuddered at the memory of the dull thwack of the Rattata’s corpse before Rén thrashed it about, but alongside that unpleasant feeling was a sense of gratefulness. The Hoothoot had been looking after her in his own way, even back when they first partnered up despite his disgust at traveling with her.

A boulder slid to the side with a motorized whirr and a metallic platform rose up from underground, bearing a shallow concrete bowl laden with hunks of fresh meat and vegetation, along with a scattering of Pokémon chow alongside it. So it must be a relatively large omnivore with portion sizes that big, potentially from the mountains, Tripitaka mused.

The interns were directed to be quiet, and everyone waited with bated breath for the Pokémon to show itself. A green spiked head emerged from a shadowed den area, and the shape kept getting taller, and taller, the ground muffling its stomps as it lumbered over.

The massive green dinosaur finally stopped at the food dish, looking around with squinted, suspicious eyes before tearing into the meat with its serrated teeth, emitting a low rumbling that sent shivers through Tripitaka’s feet into her heart.

A Tyranitar.

Judging from its scarred armor plates, it was a weathered fighter, having lived a life of harsh battles. Overall it looked to be in good condition, but there was something about it that was extremely off-putting to Tripitaka, dipping almost into the uncanny valley. A strong fighter like that would carry itself with a pride and casual power, but this one looked like it was just existing, either unaware of its might, or simply uncaring and numb to it. Was it quiet and sad? Or just resigned?

Or was there something else she wasn’t seeing?

“This is our honored guest, Tyranitar,” Elrok said in a low voice. “He has been a willing participant in all of our studies, but we must treat him carefully because of his past, and we must insist you all do the same.”

Elrok waited until the intern’s unasked question was too loud to leave unanswered. “This is a former Shadow Pokémon.”

Tripitaka’s heart lurched. The poor thing; no wonder it seemed so off. It was traumatized and in recovery.

“The process has altered his psychology as well as his biology, and it’s our job to utilize this rare opportunity to fully understand Shadow Pokémon and the differences between them and normal Pokémon.

“Now, our main rule for him is protected contact at all times. Absolutely no going into the enclosure with Tyranitar in it. He may be a normal Pokémon again, but he is easily upset with new people, and his behavior on bad days can be… volatile. While this is a challenging situation, you may be asked to collect samples under supervision, but for the most part, you will be doing data analysis. We just wanted to introduce the creature behind the numbers, and to remind you what we are working for.”

Tripitaka watched Tyranitar, heart going out to him. More than anything, she wanted to inspect every bit of the enclosure and care plan and ensure he was comfortable, as well as research his species and all the data collected so far. This part of research was the most exciting to her, establishing what she knew and didn’t, and creating a plan to fill in the gaps in her knowledge as efficiently as possible.

Masato hissed a quiet curse as his pencil fumbled from his grasp and rolled through one of the metal grates into the enclosure below, stuttering out frantic apologies. Everyone froze when the pencil clattered onto the stony ground, as did Tyranitar. He looked up from the food, and after a pause slowly rose, picking his way over with heavy yet precise strides, examining the foreign object and looking upwards at everyone above him.

“Stay calm, he’s just looking,” the employee from earlier murmured, looking at her monitor. “He’s just curious.”

Tripitaka frowned. They were treating Tyranitar like a feral beast. He may have had a rough past and they had to handle him with care, but surely he wasn’t entirely beyond reason?

A few heartbeats later and Tyranitar appeared satisfied, posture a bit more relaxed than before, raising his snout and smelling the air. Everyone else relaxed too, and Elrok quietly cleared his throat.

“Right. So the first tasks of the day will be divided…”

The words faded away as Tripitaka inched her way closer to the glass windows, watching Tyranitar. The rock and dark type paused again, still smelling the air, but with a renewed intensity than before, glancing around, body subtly tensing up.

“Excuse me,” Tripitaka said over her shoulder to get someone’s attention. “But Tyranitar-”

“Hang on, the big guy’s heart rate just spiked,” another researcher said over her. Everyone stopped what they were doing to look down into the enclosure, someone bumping into Tripitaka, who pulled her jacket tighter around her. “He’s getting agitated for some reason.”

Tyranitar’s eyes widened, nose blasting a snort and a sharp inhale as his entire head flinched backwards. His line of sight jerked up to Tripitaka, and although he was looking directly at her, Tripitaka could tell he wasn’t all there. Tyranitar suddenly roared, claws painfully flexing as his thick tail thrashed and scattered whatever food was left on the plate.

“Call containment,” someone barked.

“What happened? He was fine just a second ago…”

“Tyranitar, calm down, you’re alright!” someone else shouted into a microphone, the voice sounding over an intercom. The dinosaur let out a louder, agonized scream in response, sand streaming around his body and responding to his call as the noise reverberated through Tripitaka’s chest.

The interns were immediately herded away by Elrok, ordering them to clear the area in case Tyranitar attacked. Tripitaka threw a last glance over her shoulder before the door locked behind them. Tyranitar’s unseeing eyes had tracked her, and he unleashed a chilling wail that tore a hole right through her very soul.

---

Nobody spoke about Tyranitar for the rest of the day. Masato was even quieter than usual, and refused to be consoled about Tyranitar’s outburst, despite assurances from every single staff member that it wasn’t his fault and that the dinosaur could be unpredictable even on good days.

“That was so scary,” Stefan finally muttered as the interns sat in the general dormitory processing the day. Tripitaka was worn out from all the new assigned tasks and getting oriented around the labs, but she couldn’t stop thinking about the creature’s tortured howls as it stared directly at her, and it sent shivers down her spine that froze her heart. “I guess I’m so used to Gogoat being so friendly that seeing anything different from a Pokémon is… it’s really unnerving,” Stefan finished, fidgeting with one of his crutches.

“You’ll get to see Gogoat soon and cleanse the palate,” Asher assured him.

A wooden flap on the door swung up and Nutmeg pushed her way into the dormitory, silently placing her fluffy head on the closest lap, waiting expectantly for everyone to stroke her fur.

“Thanks Nutmeg,” Masato murmured, voice barely above a whisper. “You always know the best time to show up.”

Tripitaka quirked her mouth. She had been craving the presence of her own Pokémon, sorely missing Sage’s purrs and little noises. From what she’d been told, Sage had been having a blast, playing nearly constantly and to not worry about her. She also just now realized the vacant spot in her mind was due to the absence of Echo’s psychic presence in their bond. It was probably because he was on the opposite side of the vast facility and he was simply out of range, but it felt strange not feeling it anymore after being accustomed to it for so long. “Does anyone else have Pokémon waiting for them?” she finally asked.

Nadiya shook her head. “My little sister loaned me her Zebstrika for the journey and I sent it back as soon as I got here. I never was into that silly trainer nonsense; that’s more of her life.”

“Flannery is a family friend and she sent a Torkoal from her gym to go with me,” Asher said with a shrug.

Masato mumbled that he caught a Beedrill right outside of his town as soon as he got the invitation email and had released it as soon as he arrived.

“My parents hired a guard Liepard from a private security company,” Julie shrugged.

“Come through, rich kid,” Stefan snorted.

“Says the guy who has a Gogoat with a premium pedigree,” Julie retorted.

“He’s a service Pokémon!” Stefan snapped. “My parents wouldn’t be able to afford him or his training if we didn’t get a disability grant, anyway!”

“Enough,” Nadiya interjected, voice level. “Julie, you may be the youngest here, but that doesn’t give you an excuse to be an ignorant ass.”

Julie bristled, but Asher cut in. “So, Stefan, do you have any other Pokémon?”

He shook his head. “I have Gogo. Why in the world would I need another one?”

Tripitaka felt rather out of place at the consensus of the other interns. The invitation email never specified they had to catch more Pokémon, just travel with one. Granted, her unusual circumstances had prompted the need to have another Pokémon on her team, but the knowledge that she was the only one with three teammates waiting for her (she had to remind herself it was now two with Rén gone) made her feel embarrassed, almost like she had been trying too hard.

“So no one tried out trainer stuff along the road, like battles?” she ventured. “I found that I could learn a lot about Pokémon doing battles with them-”

The other interns let out various scoffs.

“You sound like one of those jock trainers,” Nadiya giggled. “It’s hard to replicate proper scientific data in a chaotic setting like a battle.”

Tripitaka shut her mouth and nodded, ears burning. While it didn’t seem to be a holistic approach to researching Pokémon, Nadiya did have a point. Nutmeg moved to Tripitaka’s lap, pressing her chin into Tripitaka’s legs, effectively quieting her mind. The other interns moved onto the topic, but Tripitaka stayed quiet, stroking Nutmeg’s mane.

“So tell us about your Pokémon you had,” Stefan prompted, nudging Tripitaka. “We kind of moved on without you.”

Tripitaka managed a smile and told them a quick summary of all three of her team members. “I wish I could show you pictures, but IT still has my phone,” she sighed.

Granted, most of the pictures on Tripitaka’s phone were various angles of Sage sleeping, but she still wanted to show her off.

“Yeah, it took a long time to get mine back too,” Asher said, sympathetic. “The dudes in security said they think there was some spyware installed by the bad guys who wanted to kidnap us, so they have to make sure it’s clean. We’ve all got our tablets, anyway.”

“We all know what a Kadabra and Eevee look like,” Julie shrugged. “You can introduce us in person later.”

When the interns had departed and Stefan bid her a goodnight, Tripitaka lay staring up at the dim ceiling.

Battles were integral to a Pokémon’s life, from psychology to communication, a nagging voice in the back of Tripitaka’s mind whispered. Leaving it out was neglecting a huge wealth of data, right? She remembered having the same thought process as the other interns before she had left on her journey. Why had she been the only intern to come out with a different opinion on battles?

Her hand absently went up to massage at her shoulder still in the brace, thoughts swirling. What had been so different about her travel experience to fundamentally rewrite her previous assumptions?

---

To Mr Professor Gingko,

This is Monkey subbing in for Tripitaka’s email update intern thing she won’t shut up about so sorry if I can’t write down the words good like Tripitaka can. In all seriousness you need to hire her, she’s stupid smart. Considering we’re still looking for her because she was literally kidnapped, please don’t hold that against her she’s not doing her daily reports. Anyway it’s day five and the mood in Tripitaka’s Pokémon has changed from bummed out to pissed off. That Eevee of hers can nail a moving target half a mile away with her Shadow Ball. She’s been practicing constantly. It’s scary. As for her Kadabra, I can’t make him stop meditating… he’s trying to find her and is mad that he can’t. He barely stops to eat or sleep. He was really fucked up that he couldn’t teleport to rescue her and I think he blames himself for all of this, but he really shouldn’t.

As for the Noctowl… Well he’s on the mend. He’s not talking to anyone. Today when I went to check on him he swore at me and slashed at my face and screamed that I wasn’t his real trainer.

Now you may think that’s shitty (or whatever you smart professor people call that) but I think that’s a lot of progress since we’ve actually gotten words out of him. He got really lucky… his entire chest was slashed open half into his wing. I think it was Silver’s Scyther that did it. We’re lucky he didn’t have an artery severed. It took Comfey making a daisy chain of Leech Seeds on every single Pokémon we had to give her enough energy so she could keep using Floral Healing to stabilize him until the emergency services arrived. It was really shitty since his Pokéball is with Tripitaka, and whoever took her turned the tracking feature off so we’re flying blind over here.

Anyway hire Tripitaka please when we find her.

Bye.

-Monkey King, champion of pretty much every single League in the world and is strongly endorsing this monk

P.S. Oh yeah, uh, wild Pokémon observations…. I saw a Zigzagoon the other day. It was cute.

---

Tripitaka paused at the door in the hallway. She had just finished running her errand for one of the techs in the server room which had led her right outside the training facility. Figuring she had some extra time, she pushed her way in. Even if it was early in the morning, the Pokémon were all warming up or running drills, all under the watchful eye of the silver haired head of security.

She picked her way around the perimeter, careful to not interfere with any of the Pokémon. The little Mienfoo with tattered ears from earlier was nearby, focused on practicing her spin kicks. Another security guard barked at her to make it cleaner before moving on, which she replicated again with the same results. Tripitaka paused, watching Mienfoo’s technique and growing frustration.

“Tuck your paws in when you spin around,” Tripitaka suggested, thinking of ice skaters lowering their inertia while maintaining their angular momentum. “You’ll pivot faster. Even just a fraction of a second can make a world of difference.”

Mienfoo glanced up at her, jaws parting, before she shot a swift glance in the direction of the leaderboard and looked down, folding her arms in.

“I think they’re training every Pokémon in here the same way instead of teaching you how to maximize your own strengths,” Tripitaka commented, kneeling down to Mienfoo’s level. “Sometimes technique is better than brute force.”

“So tell me,” a low voice said next to her, making her jump. “What makes a brand new intern from the science division arrive at the conclusion that she’s better suited to train the Pokémon here than the head of security?”

Tripitaka swallowed hard and slowly stood up, ducking her head at the man standing before her. “I’m sorry, I just-”

“Just lost, it would seem. Because there’s no reason for you to be here,” he replied curtly. He leveled his stare to Mienfoo, who looked away. “And there’s no need for you to speak with her.”

Tripitaka turned to leave, but Mienfoo had already skittered into the throng of Pokémon, joining into a formation to drill. Mienfoo looked up at the leaderboard again, visibly deflating when her profile picture plummeted to hover near the bottom before punching the air with a renewed vigor. She didn’t get demoted simply because Tripitaka spoke with her, right?

Tripitaka fidgeted with the sleeve of her lab coat, trying to come up with what to say. “I’m sorry to interrupt your training,” she finally said in her most polite voice. She glanced up at him, who was standing with his arms folded, watching the Pokémon with a critical eye. “I just wanted to stop by to see you, now that I had the opportunity.”

He didn’t react. “For what?”

Tripitaka blinked. “To thank you for… rescuing me. I heard that you were personally dispatched by the Professor, so it must not have been easy.”

A muscle in his jaw twitched. “I’m sure you’ll be worth the price we paid.”

“Oh… I’m so sorry to have caused you so much trouble,” Tripitaka rushed out. “I don’t even know what to say to that.”

He finally looked her dead in the eyes. “I don’t blame you, Tripitaka,” he bit out, flickers of rogue emotions darting into his piercing stare. The specific emphasis on his words gave her pause while his overwhelming presence made her withdraw into herself.

He turned away, surveying the Pokémon again, occasionally barking out commands.

“Can you tell me your name, since you obviously know mine?” Tripitaka asked politely after finding her words again. “Well, I guess remind me… I’m sorry, you seem so familiar, and there’s been so much going on lately that I don’t know where my head’s at…”

He let out a sigh. Tripitaka got the sense he wasn’t much for conversation and his patience for indulging this interaction was wearing thin. “We’ve been introduced before. You know me as Silver.”

He glanced at her again out of the corner of his eye, and Tripitaka nodded to herself. His name didn’t ring any bells, so she just filed it away. “Thanks. I guess I’ll be going now?”

“You’d best get back to it, intern,” he replied, looking back to the arena in a clear dismissal.

---

She didn’t run into Silver again for a few days.

In the meantime, it was business as usual for Tripitaka and the interns. Analyze data, go to think tank meetings, construct theories, run samples, crunch numbers, maintain equipment, behavioral observations, glance up at the intern leaderboard every so often, chug caffeine, eat, sleep, repeat.

“So what’s to stop Shadow Pokémon from attacking their trainers if everything is an indiscriminate target?” Julie asked as the interns sped through lunch.

“It’s got to be the Pokéballs they’re contained in,” Masato said. “Purification only starts once they’re separated from the ball they were snagged in, right?”

“I mean, Pokémon instinctively know which Pokéball is theirs,” Asher said with a frown, rubbing their forehead. “Even on full teams they can find and go into their own Pokéballs without error even if the trainer doesn’t do the recalling.”

“Do you suppose then that whoever holds the Pokéball can give it commands?” Stefan asked. “Maybe that’s part of the process we’re not looking at.”

“But what if the people making Shadow Pokémon figure out how to do it without the use of Pokéballs?” Asher asked. “Pokémon are stronger if they’re wild, right?”

Tripitaka listened to them talk, picking at her wilted salad. The food here was really lacking. It was… fine, but it was nothing compared to the cooking she was used to, either at Sprout Tower or on the road. Her mouth watered thinking about the meals she once had. As much as she didn’t want to think about it, she found herself wondering if the internship she had worked so hard to get to was really worth it.

She noticed Silver had tossed his tray of food down at a table, sitting by himself and steadily shoveling food into his mouth. No one approached him.

“I’m going to go back and get a jump on those samples,” Stefan said. The other interns followed, and Tripitaka remained, still trying to work at her salad. After a moment’s thought, she scooped up her tray and went over to Silver’s table, sitting down across from him.

A look of irritation furrowed his brow, but he didn’t look up.

“How’s your day going?” Tripitaka asked with a smile.

He set his fork down with more force than necessary. “Why do you keep bothering me?” he grumbled, throwing her a frustrated look.

Tripitaka mulled over her potential answers. “You’re the only person here that feels familiar,” she admitted. “And I feel the most comfortable around you, weird as that sounds. It’s… nice being around you.”

Silver’s jaw twitched. “Just because I’m head of security or that I was the one sent to retrieve you does not make me a good person,” he muttered, going back to his food.

Tripitaka wanted to roll her eyes at his edgelord bravado. “You’re a good person; I can tell. And I’m usually right about those things.”

“Well this time, you are laughably incorrect,” Silver grunted. His narrowed eyes flicked up to hers. “You’ve said your piece, now leave me to mine.”

As much as he was signaling he wanted her to go away, Tripitaka still felt like this guy was the only person in this facility that understood Pokémon training in a way the other interns didn’t. It may have been wishful thinking on her part, but she also couldn’t help but think he needed a friend.

“Is it true that Pokémon are stronger in the wild?” Tripitaka asked him, changing the subject.

His fork paused at his mouth. “Yes and no.” He studied her expectant look, as if trying to guess her reason for asking. “In terms of raw power, being caught alters a Pokémon’s energy so they’re stronger in the wild. But trained Pokémon can achieve things they could never do on their own, like mega evolution or Z-moves.”

“A partnership that can draw the best out of both worlds,” Tripitaka said slowly. Troy had said something like that once. His words stirred a feeling in her chest, like she was on the verge of a breakthrough, but couldn’t pin down what she was thinking about. “Do you think Mienfoo would do better if partnered up with an individual trainer?” she asked instead.

“I caught it, so that would be me,” Silver grunted, standing up. “Don’t know why you care about it so much.”

“Maybe I see a bit of myself in her,” Tripitaka said with a shrug. “Kind of like the underdog, you know?”

“From what I’ve heard, you’re not an underdog, intern.” Silver checked his watch, eyes returning to Tripitaka. “Shouldn’t your break be over by now?”

Tripitaka muttered a curse that Troy would have surely reprimanded her for as she threw out the rest of her tray and dashed off, tossing a farewell over her shoulder.

---

“Have any of you performed a blood draw before?” one of the scientists asked in a brusque tone, glancing at the silent interns. Tripitaka slowly raised her hand. It wasn’t her most confident skill, but she had done it enough on several species at Professor Elm’s lab to be able to adapt.

“Good. You’ll show the other interns how it’s done.”

Tripitaka was still nursing a headache from this morning that pills and caffeine were unable to touch. Maybe she was just working too hard, because she didn’t remember dreaming at all the night prior, which was the usual culprit of morning headaches. But despite the persistent low throbbing in the back of her skull, she pressed onwards, even if she had woken up alone this morning. Stefan’s individual room had finally been finished renovating and he reluctantly moved out of the common dormitory. The dorm felt emptier than ever, but at least Tripitaka had free usage of the showers now. Management assured her they were working as fast as they could to finish her room despite some unexpected setbacks, so just be patient.

“Tyranitar, line up,” the intercom rang out as Tripitaka, the scientist, and the interns waited near a small window thrumming with the energy of a force field.

The dinosaur plodded over, hesitating at the sight of the interns. He was far larger in person compared to looking down at him from the deck, and Julie couldn’t help but shrink back with a squeak.

“Easy, big guy,” the scientist said. Tripitaka could detect a small tremor in his voice. “It’s just a simple procedure. Just put your arm through the hole and hold onto the metal bar, just like always.”

A hole in the force field opened up, large enough for a Tyranitar arm to fit through. At the end of what his reach would have been was a metal bar suspended off the ground. Tripitaka appreciated the design of it; the bar invited participation without the use of restraints by having the Pokémon simply hold onto it until the blood draw was done.

Tyranitar remained motionless, standing lined up in the correct spot but his arms remaining at his sides.

“I know I’m not the usual guy, but the sooner we get this done, the sooner you can go about your day,” the scientist said, voice starting to dip into pleading.

Now that he was so close, Tripitaka finally got a good look at the Pokémon. His appearance seemed normal, and eyes were still alert and intelligent, but the emotions behind them were blunted and dulled. She couldn’t shake that there was something about him, something unseen that was sending alarm bells through her mind.

She distracted herself by getting the materials ready on the tray near the metal bar. She’d dealt with fickle Pokémon before; they just needed patience. The scientist’s behavior probably wasn’t inspiring confidence in Tyranitar, either.

“Tyranitar, please put your arm through the hole. I’ll make this quick,” she informed him in a low voice, injecting as much confidence she could into her words despite her nerves. The other interns flinched as the large green arm was thrust forward. Tripitaka tried to not smile, as if this was completely normal. “Okay, grab the bar and just look away. Relax.”

Tyranitar rumbled, body pliant as he waited.

“Just slide it in parallel to the scales and…” A minute later and the procedure had finished without a hitch.

“Well done, Tripitaka!” the scientist praised as the other interns were tittering to themselves, throwing a wide-eyed look first to Tyranitar and then to the scientists up on the viewing platform. “This was probably the most calm he’s ever been during a blood draw.”

Tripitaka wished everyone would be quiet; she could tell the extra noise was starting to agitate Tyranitar. She pressed down on the scale covering the spot she had stuck once the container was filled. “All done. You did great; now go play.”

Tyranitar withdrew his arm but remained where he was. His expression remained unchanged, but unless Tripitaka was completely insane, it was almost like he was trying to parse her statement.

“Go finish your breakfast; I know we interrupted that,” the scientist stepped in. “I’ll have some extra treats for you in a bit.”

Tyranitar’s gaze didn’t leave Tripitaka’s, and she nodded in encouragement, making a tiny shooing gesture with her hand. After a moment’s consideration, he turned and thudded to his food dish, thick tail swishing behind him, scattering dust and twigs out of the way.

“Kind of slow on the uptake, isn’t he?” Asher commented, watching Tyranitar lumber away.

“Trauma can dull your reaction time; give him a break,” Nadiya scolded them. Asher blushed and nodded swiftly. “Meanwhile, all hail Tripitaka the Tyranitar whisperer!” she exclaimed, grabbing Tripitaka’s shoulders and giving them an excited shake. Stefan let out a happy sound and hugged her and Masato offered some silent applause.

Tripitaka waved off the attention. “It’s just about being confident even if you don’t feel it,” she replied, ears burning.

Julie nudged Tripitaka with her tablet, showing that her name had shot up to the top of the leaderboard. “Tripitaka, when you’re the head researcher and running this place, are you still going to remember us little interns way back in the trenches?”

Tripitaka was about to fire back a reply when everything in her mind went completely paralyzed, a memory flooding her senses and overriding everything else around her.

“Hey, when you get to be some big shot professor, will you still be my friend?”

The cocky, chiding voice was so familiar and comforting, but the face was blurred. Who had said that?

The world slammed back into existence, the noises suddenly very loud and the lights blaringly bright. “Okay, okay, let’s just get back to work,” she managed to chuckle out, fighting for her life to maintain a casual façade while her mind was racing fast enough to make her head spin.

---

“How’s Mienfoo today?” Tripitaka asked Silver.

They were sitting across from each other at lunch. The other interns had elected to take their lunches at their desks and keep working, but Tripitaka had remained in the cafeteria. It was the only place she could reliably track Silver down.

“I wasn’t handling the training today; I had more pressing matters to attend to. But I’d assume it’s doing the same as always,” Silver grumbled. “Mediocre.”

The offhand comment made Tripitaka wrinkle her nose. “Can’t you do something else to help her out?”

“I have. I’ve offered supplements and vitamins like every other Pokémon we have, but it refused every time. Something about getting strong on its own or some stupid shit like that.”

Tripitaka smiled into her thin soup. “So you can understand Pokéspeech?” she asked mildly.

“Believe what you want to believe, intern,” came the retort. “What I can say is the concept of fighting honorably is stupid. If someone is threatening your life, you do what you need to do to come out on top. Your code of ethics and morals get thrown out first. I’ve been trying to drill that into the fool but I can’t teach stupid.”

Tripitaka shrugged. “If having a strong moral compass is her only flaw, then she must not be that bad.”

Silver leveled a frustrated glance at her. “We don’t train morality. We train ruthlessness and efficiency. All to protect naïve interns like you.”

Tripitaka held up her hands in surrender. “Sorry. Overstepping again.”

“You have a nasty habit of doing that,” Silver replied. “Tell me, how’s life in the group dormitory by yourself? You’d think with your consistent top ranking they’d have it done by now.”

Tripitaka blinked at the abrupt swerve in the conversation, and her mind failed to connect the topics together. “They’re… still working on renovating my room.”

Silver snorted to himself.

Tripitaka drummed her fingers on her spoon. “So you said you caught a lot of the Pokémon in the training facility. Do you have a primary team?”

He nodded. Tripitaka leaned her head down to try and catch his eye to prompt more out of him. People tended to love talking about their Pokémon.

“Scyther, Fearow, Absol,” he eventually listed. “Absol was a company asset partnered with me.”

When it was clear that he wasn’t going to elaborate any further, she gestured in the direction of his belt. “So what’s with the extra Pokéball you always have with you? The one that has Professor Elm's logo on it?" He stared at her, his hand clenching around it. "I worked in Professor Elm’s lab so I saw a lot of those. You got a starter Pokémon from him, didn't you?"

"Let it go, Tripitaka."

His unusual usage of her name didn’t deter her. "And it's not with you anymore. What happened to it?"

"I said, drop it," he growled, his tone shifting into something much more dangerous.

"No, if something happened, you shouldn't have to bear it alone,” Tripitaka protested. “It doesn't have to be me, but you should tell someone!" she swallowed hard. "Is... it alive? Was it taken like.... like Tyranitar was?"

His jaw set. "As far as I'm aware, he's alive." His brow furrowed into a snarl. "He ran away. He was.... Too soft to handle what we had to do to survive." He glared at the Pokéball, embossed with a water emblem. "Scyther was more of a starter Pokémon than Croconaw ever was. At least he was loyal enough to stay when things got rough. And Fearow wasn’t even mine to begin with, but she chose to stay with me despite it all. Can’t say the same for my own fucking starter."

Tripitaka didn't have a response to that. Working with Elm, she knew that starter Pokémon were specifically bred and selected for loyalty as well as raised their entire lives with the expectation to protect and love their trainer above all else, some even to their own detriment. She couldn't imagine a starter Pokémon, much less one of Elm's, to be disloyal, and yet her friend was here, and Croconaw was not. Something else must have happened, or she didn't have the entire picture. But she didn't know how to articulate that to him. She shook her head.

"I'm sorry to hear that. But thank you for telling me."

He just grunted, prodding at his plate with his fork again. “You know, I could ask the same thing about you.” At her puzzlement, his gaze shifted to the Pokéballs on her hip. “You have an extra active Pokéball on there. Empty, too.”

Tripitaka frowned, hand going to her string of beads. Rén’s old Pokéball was still there, etched with the symbol of the Sprout Tower and not yet deactivated. Sage’s with the small pockmarks and scratches all over where she had mouthed at it was in its usual place, along with Echo’s relatively unblemished one. But the other one was separate from the other three and looked like it had seen a lot of use. Come to think of it, why did she have an extra one?

“I… don’t know,” she finally realized, detaching the minimized ball and turning it this way and that to examine it. She let out an involuntary chuckle. “That’s so strange, isn’t it?”

These past few days she’d gotten a lot better at reading Silver’s stoic facial expressions, and she could tell that this time he was genuinely curious as well. For someone that seemed to always know everything before anyone else did, for once he didn’t have an answer to this mystery. It also seemed to bother him more than it was bothering her.

She shook her head, replacing it on her belt and scraping at her bowl. "I'm still wondering about Tyranitar. He’s.... Not acting within the bounds of what a former Shadow Pokémon would be like... It's... He feels off. He looks like a normal Tyranitar but it's almost like there's something surrounding it. No one else believes me, but I just have a gut feeling, you know?"

He stilled, setting his fork onto the table. "I'd keep your findings to yourself," he muttered.

"Um, scientist? We don't exactly do that in my line of work," she chuckled.

"Well you’d better start," he said, almost too quietly for her to hear. He abruptly stood and stalked out of the cafeteria without a backward glance.

“That went well,” Tripitaka said brightly to herself, trying to not overthink the strange interaction.

---

Snow was howling around Tripitaka, grabbing at her clothes and lashing her skin. Surprisingly enough, Tripitaka didn’t feel cold at all; in fact, the wind was humid and warm. Tripitaka felt the uneasy pressure of eyes on the back of her skull, and turned to see an Absol standing on top of the snow, watching her with an impartial gaze.

“Do you hate me?” Tripitaka asked it.

“No.” The reply was immediate.

“Sorry… I don’t know why I asked that,” Tripitaka stammered, hands twitching but remaining pinned at her sides.

The Absol was silent, staring at her with its unblinking red eyes. Tripitaka waited for something to happen, and eventually broke eye contact, looking around at the snowy mountain. The Absol’s gleaming white pelt blended right in, the black claws and blades on the head and tail standing out starkly against the snow. If she was to look at Absol from a distance, Tripitaka would have assumed the black specks were simply rocks in the landscape.

“Is this your home?” she finally asked, unsure of what the creature wanted.

“It was,” Absol replied, looking around. “A long time ago.”

“Oh.” Tripitaka didn’t know how to reply to that. The Absol didn’t appear to be emotionally moved by being away from its home for so long, merely stating a fact. Tripitaka let out an awkward chuckle. “Absol are known for appearing when there’s danger around. Am I in danger now?”

“Are you not?”

Tripitaka blinked. The Absol wasn’t aggressive, and from the empty landscape, the two of them were completely isolated. But if there was no danger, why had one appeared?

“I don’t understand,” she said, silently pleading for a hint from the beast.

Absol whispered something that was drowned out by the howl of the wind and turned to leave, vanishing into the snowy winds, the only remnants of its visit a trail of bloody paw prints.

“Wait!” Tripitaka cried out as a hot blast of wind in her face forced her back, snow piling around to her chest and squeezing tight.

Tripitaka snapped awake to a pounding headache and the sight of Nutmeg standing on top of her, eyes glowing a sinister red.

With a sharp gasp, Tripitaka squirmed to throw the Ninetales off of her but Nutmeg was already fleeing, escaping through the wooden flap on the door.

Tripitaka didn’t sleep for the rest of the night.

And heaven’s not enough
If when I’m there I don’t remember you
And heaven does enough
You think you know it
And it uses you

Chapter Text

Monkey stared at the egg in his lap. It was a dark orange with small spots of red and yellow streaks along the smooth sides.

It was also very warm. 

He wasn't sure what drew him in the most, the heat or the bright colors. Monkey had always loved reds and oranges. They were so cheerful. What he did know is that he wanted the egg to hatch so he could meet the Pokémon inside.

He was very careful with it. He never played around with the egg and never tapped on its shell. The man who brought the box of eggs a while ago said they were virtually child-proof, but the Matron had sternly told everyone reaching into the box to be careful and gentle.

What would his first words be to it? Matron had given instructions to call her the instant the egg started to crack. Preston already had his hatch into a feisty Mankey and Kira's had just hatched into a goofy Hoppip. Matron had encouraged everyone still waiting that some Pokémon eggs took longer to hatch than others, so to be patient. 

Being patient sucked. He wanted his egg to hatch so much it burned like a fire through his chest. 

Would the Pokémon want to be his friend? He hoped so. What would it be? He let his thoughts wander. What if it was actually a baby Moltres? That would be so cool. They were so strong! And it would be his best friend. He wouldn't need any other Pokémon. Just him and Moltres flying around burning through the Elite Four, no ALL the Elite Fours of the world at once!

Wait, wasn't there only one Moltres in the world? Whatever. He could dream.

The egg twitched and Monkey jumped, staring at it. Had he imagined it?

The egg twitched again, a crack appearing at the top of the shell. Monkey gasped, setting the egg on the floor and lying on his stomach to watch it, mouth agape, eyes wider than a dinner plate. His heart pounded as the crack widened, and he buried his sweaty hands in his armpits so he wouldn't touch the egg. 

The egg finally burst open, little orange legs kicking off the bottom half of the shell. Monkey's eyes somehow widened more as the Pokémon fully tumbled out. He knew this Pokémon!

The baby monkey sat on the floor, its tail flame lighting up the room and its wide gray eyes met Monkey's.

"H..." Monkey took a deep breath, his hammering heart making his voice shaky. "Hi, Chimchar. I'm Monkey!"

Chimchar rubbed its face and cocked its head.

"I want to be your very best friend," Monkey whispered, inching closer on his forearms. "Do you want to be mine?"

Chimchar's very first smile lit up its face and it launched into Monkey's arms, hugging him tight. 

---

Monkey watched his fragmented group go through the paces of holding themselves together.

All of his resources had been tapped, all of Pigsy’s connections had responded with nothing. There was nothing that could be done to locate Tripitaka except wait for the police to find something, or for Echo to perform a miracle and pick up her psychic signature.

Monkey had tried to work Tripitaka’s researching magic, but the search pages and news articles turned into a blur; there was not much the internet could do with ‘evil organization kidnapping interns’ and ‘where is my best friend’. He tried to pick up where Tripitaka had left off with her ever-growing document of notes, but couldn’t figure out where to go from there. He couldn’t find her in Tripitaka’s way. The only thing he could do was send his most likely grammatically shaky emails and hope that Professor Ginkgo cared enough to do something on his end.

Sage got thrown back for the umpteenth time drilling with Edge and Mist, letting out a frustrated cry and lashing out with a spat Shadow Ball that Edge cleanly sliced through.

“You’re getting sloppy because you’re tired, Sage,” Sandy told her. “Take a break.”

She rounded on her, tail puffed up. “I’m not tired!” she growled in a very uncharacteristic tone.

“Your shaking legs say otherwise,” Monkey commented, keeping his voice level. Between Rén still in recovery and not willing to even look at anyone and Echo solely devoted to meditating to find his trainer, Sage had no one to interact with. The other, more battle-hardened Pokémon were passing the time training and preparing for a potential rescue mission, so all Sage could do with them was train, despite being completely out of her depth from an experience standpoint. She didn’t smile or play anymore; just copied what the older Pokémon did through gritted teeth and a fraying thread of resolve perpetually teetering on the edge of a knife.

The Eevee glared at him before calling for Comfey, the little fairy hurrying over and pouring some healing energy into the fox just long enough for her to get her wind back and throw herself back at it.

Monkey’s heart twisted. Mist and Edge exchanged looks before engaging. Sandy ordered them to stop a minute later.

“I’m not done yet!” Sage cried, chasing after them as they returned to Sandy’s side. “I can still go on!”

“You may not be done Sage, but they are,” Sandy said gently. “We can pick this up later. Comfey, would you mind, really quick? I’m going to go check on Rén and Echo.”

Sage cast a look around as Comfey treated Sandy’s Pokémon, her frantic gaze eventually landing on Infernape and Golem taking a break from their own sparring match.

Monkey managed to snatch her up into his arms as she lunged for them. “No, stop. You’re done.”

“Let me go!” Sage squealed, thrashing in his arms. He repeated himself, holding her tighter and cuddling her against his chest. She let out a furious shriek, squirming against his grip, and sank her fangs into the meat of his shoulder before releasing him in an instant, body freezing. Monkey winced but held fast, digging his fingers into her mane, massaging her rigid back.

“I-” Sage stammered, her body trembling. “I’m sorry-”

“It’s okay,” Monkey murmured, easing himself down onto the grass, still cradling her tight. “I’ve got you, little girl. I’m okay. We’re okay. It’s alright. You don’t need to explain anything at all; I understand. You’re okay.”

Sage whined, her entire body drooping, burying her face into his chest and letting out a sob that shattered his heart. “Tripitaka…”

Monkey held her until the sun dipped below the horizon, stroking her fur and softly speaking to her until her cries turned into hiccups. When she had gone entirely quiet, he planted a kiss on her forehead. He tried not to think how Tripitaka was going to respond to Sage’s shift in personality, and he fervently hoped it was temporary. He couldn’t bear the thought of Tripitaka being disappointed in him for not looking after her partner, nor could he bear the thought of sweet Sage never being happy again.

“I miss her too,” he whispered into Sage’s ear, who let out the softest of whimpers. “We’re going to get her back. I promise.”

Infernape approached, and silently held out his hands. Monkey nodded and passed the now sleeping bundle of fur over to him. He needed to send yet another update email on Tripitaka’s behalf, and unfortunately with his typing speed, he needed both hands. But his steadfast partner had always appeared before he needed to ask, always ready for anything. He gave Sage’s forehead one last swipe with his thumb before patting Infernape’s shoulder in a silent thanks, and made the eternally long journey over to Tripitaka’s backpack.

---

Pigsy watched Comfey flit around, checking in on everyone, soothing their injuries and giving as much energy as she could. The other Pokémon had been training relentlessly, even Sage, which concerned him, but he could see Monkey was handling it. Comfey wasn’t a battler; she was a healer, and she was doing all she could to patch everyone up and keep their spirits raised.

Despite her persistent smile, Pigsy could tell the fairy type was exhausted. She was hovering rather low to the ground, and it didn’t take a florist to see that her flowers were drooping. She rubbed her eyes with one paw, the other just barely hanging onto her tail.

He called her over.

“When was the last time you had a proper soak?” Pigsy asked Comfey as soon as she was within arm’s reach, already knowing the answer. She rubbed her eyes again and shook her head, looking shy.

He refrained from sighing. “Come on then,” he told her, lowering his hands and waiting for her to fully climb on board. She slowly settled in and wound her long tail around his thick wrist, not looking at him.

Normally the little fairy would wander alone into a nearby stream or puddle to water her flowers, but Pigsy didn’t want her out of his sight for a single instant. Monica would kill him if she fell asleep and washed away on his watch.

Comfey didn’t question him as he filled one of his cast iron skillets with a bottle of spring water he kept around for her just in case. He tucked a bunched-up washcloth around the edge so she would have a small pillow and something to hold onto.

“In you go then,” he grunted, gently sliding her off his palms into the water, arranging her tail so her flowers were saturated. “It’s warm. Cast iron skillets retain heat longer. Comfortable?”

She nodded, still not looking at him.

Pigsy took in the appearance of her flowers as he mixed up some high-energy food for her and sweetened it with some pecha berries. Other members of her species redecorated their tails as often as humans changed clothes, but Comfey was a more sentimental sort. She rarely changed the arrangement on her tail, insisting each flower she chose to adorn herself with was tied with a precious memory.

He counted the flowers on her tail. She had several Alolan plumeria (which seemed to be her favorite), a few hibiscus in several colors, a particularly pretty orchid, the original Ohi’a Lehua he offered to her when they first met, the cranesbill she plucked after Monica won her grand trial on Akala, the cherry blossom Monica found for her when they opened the Lodge…

And taking up the most space near the middle of her tail, a red rose blossom.

His heart always twitched whenever he saw it because he meant for it to be buried with Mamoswine, but Comfey had added it to her tail and kept it ever since. He knew it was a source of grief for her, and he often caught her paying extra attention to it and looking sad.

“Remember when we were climbing Wela Volcano and the ash was getting to me?” Comfey asked, adjusting herself in the water.

Pigsy snorted. “Locke said to soak you in the skillet and keep the lid on.”

“It was one of the few times she actually had a good idea,” Comfey chuckled. “I make a good soup.”

“If I put you on the fire, you’d make a good soup now,” Pigsy retorted.

Comfey smiled at the thought, knowing he’d never act on it. “I’m sure Turtonator would have something to say about that.”

“I’m not worried about Turtonator,” Pigsy grunted. “He would just set me on fire and go back to sleep. No, it’s Monica I fear. She wouldn’t permit me to die for weeks.”

Comfey frowned. “But she’s so nice!”

Pigsy leveled a look at her. “You’re worse than Sage; you think everyone is nice.”

Comfey’s smile faded. “I’m worried about her,” she confided in him. “Do you think she’ll be… better once Tripitaka is back?”

“You worry about everyone,” Pigsy grunted, giving her tiny bowl of food a final stir and offering some to her on a teaspoon. “That’s why you’re in a Tapu-damned skillet right now because you forget to take care of yourself. You’re just as bad as that Eevee’s trainer.” He took a breath. She didn’t need to feel his frustration. “But Monkey and Sandy are looking after Sage right now. I’m sure she’ll be fine.”

Comfey gave him a look, knowing he had dodged her question. Eventually Comfey sighed, accepting the food. “How would you make my soup taste?”

“I’d season you with cumin, some salt and tarragon, and enough black pepper to make Mamoswine sneeze for days,” came the immediate dry response.

Comfey giggled, but Pigsy had sobered at the mention of his former partner.

“I thought after all this time it wouldn’t hurt as much. Missing her,” he clarified, checking the water in the skillet to make sure it was still warm. “I know you two were close.”

“Her head was the best spot to sleep,” Comfey remembered. “You’re great, but…”

“No, no, I understand. She loved wearing you as a sleepy flower crown, even as a Piloswine. Or when you would drape over one of her tusks; that was adorable.”

Comfey took his finger, tugging it close. “I-”

“If you’re going to say sorry about her, then I’m not going to hear it,” Pigsy interrupted flatly. “There’s nothing you could have done, even if you damn near drove yourself into her grave trying to help. Like you’re doing now.”

Comfey shrank down into the water, withdrawing her paw. “I just want to help.”

“You are, Comfey,” Pigsy said, taking care to soften his tone. “There’s only so much you can do. And I know you’re still feeling guilty over what happened to Mamoswine, so you try endlessly to make it up to me. But I don’t want that for you, or for us.”

“I don’t,” Comfey whispered. “I don’t.”

Pigsy eased a hand under the rose in the middle of her tail, raising it out of the water. “You’ve been carrying her grave’s flower for years now. Take it off and put another flower in its place. You don’t have to carry it anymore if it’s hurting you.”

Her eyes glittered, her sad gaze nearly bringing Pigsy to tears. He blamed it on the smoke from the fire. “Does it make you sad to look at it?” she asked.

Pigsy shook his head. “It makes me sadder you aren’t letting go of it, when you could use that space to add new flowers.”

Comfey shifted her tail and let the rose splash back into the water, running a paw through the petals. “I don’t keep it out of guilt or obligation. Not anymore, at least.” She looked up at him. “Now it’s a way to keep her close to me, to keep her memory alive. When I look at it now, I smile instead of feeling sad.” She tilted her head. “What do you feel when you look at her rose? Do your feelings change now that I’ve told you mine?”

Pigsy’s touch was feather-light as he ran his fingers through the delicate petals of the rose, before moving along and inspecting each now perked-up flower along her tail. “I can honestly say I’m not sure, Comfey.”

Comfey gazed at him, putting a paw on the back of his hand. “We’re not going to lose Tripitaka like we lost Mamoswine, Pigsy.”

Pigsy regarded her for a while, offering her the last parts of her dinner and waiting until she finished it. He didn’t know what to say to her optimism. He realistically couldn’t promise her anything; life just wasn’t like that. But he could do his best to keep everyone together until the situation resolved itself.

“Get some sleep, Comfey. I’ll be right here.”

---

Monkey was exhausted, but he’d managed to cobble together a few sentences that might be coherent to fire off to the Professor. He had no idea how Tripitaka had managed to do this every day, even on those nights when she had been dead on her feet and ready to drop.

He missed those times, looking at her sleepy face illuminated by the glow of the laptop screen as she managed to focus long enough to fulfill the obligations of her internship and knock out immediately after. There had been a few occasions he’d powered down her laptop and adjusted the blankets in her sleeping bag because she simply hadn’t the energy to do so herself.

He missed listening to her quiet breaths and watching her face relax into sleep after a day of stress and worry about their travel schedule and planning and research and keeping her Pokémon out of trouble. He missed her exasperated scolding and the irritation in her eyes when he did his best to elicit that very reaction. He missed her laugh when he sent a particularly exquisite meme or when she turned a bright red and covered Sage’s floppy ears when he told a raunchy joke. He missed her soothing voice as she rapidly pelted him with information or was gentle and assuring with her encouragement.

He missed her thinking face when she was locked into research mode and he had to remind her to eat something. He missed her nervous confidence when she guided her Pokémon through a battle or training and her glazed look afterwards as he talked her through what she could’ve done better and she failed to pay attention. He missed her soft gaze as she interacted with everyone to make sure they were feeling okay. He missed her sharp intelligence when she noticed things every other person would have missed.

He missed the way she held Sage up as a shield when she felt shy. He missed how her expression and posture changed when she was telepathically communicating with Echo or silently pouring her emotions into his mind, speaking in a world that Monkey enviously would never be a part of. He missed how she watched Rén with pride and acceptance even when the cranky owl wasn’t looking and she thought no one else was watching.

He missed getting shoulder checked or elbowed when he made a comment that she didn’t approve of. He missed adjusting her long scarf when it got tangled in the straps of her bag. He missed nuzzling his cheek along her buzzed hair. He missed the feel of her small hand in his as she gave him a reassuring squeeze or he helped her up a slope or kept her from falling after a stumble. He missed how her arms felt around his waist as he hugged her or the weight of her hands on his shoulders when he picked her up to twirl her around after a successful battle. He missed her fingertips touching his face when she tucked strands of hair behind his ear so she could study his expression better. He missed the nervous wisps of air against his cheek as he had leaned down to kiss her that night.

He missed how she held them all together.

Infernape sat down next to him, drawing him back. “I miss her too,” he said.

“I’m falling apart over here without her, Infernape,” Monkey confessed. The world was just too big and the little nerd was just too small and he was just too powerless.

Infernape was silent for a while. “I’m going to do whatever it takes when we find her,” he finally said. “I know I’ve sworn to not lose before and have lost, but I swear to you, I will not fail you. Not this time. Not for her.”

“You’ve never failed me, Infernape,” Monkey corrected. He wiped his nose, chest suddenly tight. “I couldn’t ask for a better partner.”

“I am and always will be your partner, best friend, reflection of your soul if you ascribe to the beliefs of those monks she lived with,” Infernape said, watching Sage roll over in her sleep on Monkey’s sleeping bag. “But Tripitaka is your heart. Just hold on and be strong until we get her back to you.”

“I’m trying,” Monkey said. “I just can’t stop thinking that she’s being forced to be even stronger. What if they’re torturing her or something?”

Infernape rolled his eyes and ground his knuckles into Monkey’s head. “They wanted her for research stuff, right? There’s no way that would happen.”

Reach with me
See the sky
I’ll always be here for the rest of your life
Side by side, hand in hand
We speak a language no one else can understand

We know that divided we’ll fall
So together we stand

Chapter Text

This meeting was sheer torture.

It definitely could have been an email at most, but here they were, wasting everyone’s precious research time. But as a thank you for everyone’s hard work, management had offered a morale boosting snack to all the employees: a choice of either one (1) red delicious apple or one (1) overripe banana. Tripitaka didn’t want either option, but figured she could give Mienfoo a treat instead. She was picking up a banana with the least amount of brown spots when a security officer walked out the door on his phone.

“Had to come in today for this stupid mandatory all staff meeting, so I’ll be home in a bit; tell Cam to video Blake’s gym battle for me if I don’t get there in time. No, of course I wasn’t paid overtime for this.” He paused. “Mom, I don’t think you understand what I even do here.”

Stefan walked past, glancing at the allegedly morale-boosting offerings and grimacing. Tripitaka frowned when he continued without stopping.

“Don’t you want to take something?” she asked.

His brow furrowed. “Apples are disgusting,” he told her. “I’m offended you would even ask me that.”

She returned his frown. “I meant for Gogoat. You said he likes apples.”

His face looked confused for a second too long before he nodded quickly. “Oh yeah, huh. I guess I haven’t visited him in a while…” He snatched an apple and stuffed it into his pocket and hurried away, his expression looking rather freaked out. Tripitaka watched him go, mystified. Stefan hadn’t even mentioned Gogoat yesterday, which was unusual to say the least, considering every topic somehow could always connect to the Pokémon. Maybe he was too involved in their experiments, but it was almost as if he was mentioning his partner less and less as time wore on.

Figuring she had enough time to make a quick stop by the training room to say hi to Silver and Mienfoo, she made her way over on autopilot, letting her mind wander.

The other interns hadn’t even blinked when Tripitaka told them about Nutmeg standing over her that night. Stefan had said he’d observed that Tripitaka was a restless sleeper and maybe the Ninetales was worried about her.

“Yeah, but it looked like she was using Hypnosis,” Tripitaka said. “Rén’s eyes glow the same when he’s using it.”

“Well, when we roomed together you always seemed stressed out; like you muttered and twitched a lot,” he said with a shrug. “Maybe she was trying to calm you down from a nightmare. She cares a lot, you know.”

“I’ve called Nutmeg in before when I had trouble sleeping,” Asher told her. “You never ask for help, so maybe she just took the initiative. Don’t overthink it.”

Pretty much everyone had told her the same thing, and so she’d stopped asking about the Pokémon. Tripitaka treated the fox as normally as she could and Nutmeg gave no indication of being anything other than caring, but at night Tripitaka would move a heavy desk in front of the wooden flap before turning out her desk light. She still would always wake up exhausted, however. No matter how early she tucked in (even if she had lots of projects to attend to), it was as if she could never fully recharge.

Everyone persistently kept telling Tripitaka that she was incredibly brave and resilient, but she didn’t think the price of her bravery and dedication would be being worked nearly half to death by management. As time went on, the pace of the projects kept somehow increasing and the deadlines shortening as the matters became steadily more urgent for unknown reasons. The other interns rationalized it as they were now more experienced with procedures, so their handlers expected more out of them. It made sense, but Tripitaka didn’t like how they were not-so subtly encouraged to work overtime to stay in good standing. She found herself sleeping in the lab during overnight crunch time and taking more meals at her desk and working through her breaks and accepting extra tasks from anyone who asked because she didn’t know how to say no without sneaking a look at the leaderboard.

This was her dream job and this was expected, right? She had to prove herself. This was all she wanted. Even if she constantly felt vulnerable and worn-down and frayed.

The only place she didn’t feel vulnerable was around Silver, even if his snappish and sour attitude left much to be desired. His harsh energy, which would’ve been completely off-putting had they been in any other situation, was refreshingly authentic and honest here. He never asked anything of her except to leave him alone, a welcome change from everyone else’s ever-expanding list of demands and expectations. He’d even grown to tolerate her visits with Mienfoo; he’d long since given up on trying to steer her away. His dour corner of the facility felt like the one place where she could fully separate from work and relax, even if his words could be critical and dismissive.

When the doors slid open, she found Mienfoo and Silver almost immediately. He was holding a disc the color of obsidian to Mienfoo’s forehead as she remained still, absorbing the information within.

“Stop. Fighting. Fairly,” he growled at her. “You’ll never win that way. Maybe this move will help teach you that.”

Mienfoo stepped back, giving herself a full body shake, eyeing him with her bright, beady eyes.

“What TM was that?” Tripitaka asked. Mienfoo’s expression lifted upon seeing Tripitaka, although it was quickly tamped down. Tripitaka held out the banana to the small ferret. “Management gave us a snack for morale,” she explained with a shrug.

Silver’s face remained stony, although Tripitaka could tell he felt scornful at the pitiful offering. “Taunt,” he answered Tripitaka, watching as Mienfoo greedily ate, her mouth making smacking sounds that Tripitaka thought was downright adorable. “You act as if you’re not fed here,” he snorted.

“It’s the flavor,” Tripitaka intervened. “Overripe bananas have a higher sugar content than normal bananas, and-”

“I didn’t ask or care,” Silver interrupted flatly. To Mienfoo, “Finish that and get back to drilling. If I don’t see you using your new move during scrimmage, you’re on containment duty for the rest of the month.”

Mienfoo grumbled around the rest of the rapidly disappearing fruit and flashed Tripitaka a grateful look before scampering back off to the other Pokémon, tongue swiping around her messy mouth.

“Aren’t you being rather hard on her?” Tripitaka asked mildly.

“I’m hard on it because I know for a fact it can do better,” Silver grunted. “I don’t settle for mediocrity. Neither does Mienfoo. We’re a lot alike in that regard,” he added in a disdainful tone.

“Containment duty… That’s for Tyranitar, right?” she guessed. When he offered a non-verbal grunt, she frowned. “How is Mienfoo going to contain something so much bigger than her?”

“I thought you were supposed to be smart,” he grumbled, turning his attention to his tablet. “Tyranitar has a quadruple weakness to fighting type moves. Size is not a factor.”

Tripitaka’s face fell. Of course she knew Tyranitar’s weaknesses. But Silver’s reply implied containment efforts involved beating the Pokémon into submission rather than simple restraint to help him calm down. “I take it the Pokémon don’t like being on containment duty?” she instead asked lightly.

He shot her an irritable look. “On call twenty-four seven for when the science division inevitably riles that thing up and makes it go berserk? Yeah, we all hate it,” Silver griped.

“We try not to,” Tripitaka replied, voice tight. “But lately our testing schedule is erratic because we keep getting new orders from management. Tyranitar doesn’t like it when his routine is disrupted, so he’s a bit more… unstable lately.” She wanted to add that regular beat downs probably didn’t help with Tyranitar’s mood swings, but stayed silent, grinding her teeth.

“It’s always something with management,” Silver muttered. He shifted on his feet, and Tripitaka knew from experience that was his signal he wanted her to leave. She was more than happy to do so, a dark and sick feeling churning her stomach.

---

“Okay, you look like you’re good to go without the sling,” Dr. Riley informed her cheerily, looking over her scans. “Just take it easy, alright?”

“It still hurts,” Tripitaka admitted, gingerly rotating her shoulder. She could tell under the paper gown that she was wearing that her shoulder still was bruised, even though it had been a while since she’d gotten the injury in the first place.

“There are standard painkillers in the commissary for you to purchase,” he replied nonchalantly. “I’ll give you a moment to change back into your normal clothes.”

Tripitaka bit her lip and nodded as he left her alone in the room. The painkillers he had originally prescribed were barely stronger than the ones she could purchase herself, but supposed they would have to do. She’d have to be careful and ration them out; the bottles they sold were rather small and they had limits on how many she could buy at a time.

She looked at the mirror as she pulled off the gown and winced as she looked at her shoulder. The coloration had gone from the normal stages from red to purple to green to yellow, but she could still see the exact outline of the large marking that circled her entire shoulder. She studied it, taking in the shape and thickness of the grasping claws.

A knock on the door startled her, and she pulled her shirt back on as fast as her shoulder would allow.

“There was just one more thing, Tripitaka…” Dr. Riley said as he entered, thumbing through his notes.

“What bird Pokémon attacked me again?” Tripitaka blurted out, still thinking about the reflection. At his pause, she shrugged. “I don’t think I was in the best mind to pay attention when you first told me… and the other interns wanted to know,” she added.

“Ah. It was an Altaria,” came the reply. “Quite a vicious thing for such a normally gentle Pokémon, but bad trainers can make good Pokémon do bad things.”

Tripitaka nodded. “What was the other thing?” she asked, anxious to flee the suddenly too-stuffy office and get back to work.

“We’ve received reports that the door to the common dormitory has been blocked at night,” he said, still not looking at her. Tripitaka stiffened. “If there’s a mechanical problem, please call operations to submit a work order. If not…” he glanced up at her. “Refrain from blocking the door. It’s a safety hazard.”

Tripitaka debated on whether to explain herself or not, but then decided a doctor would understand her concerns. “It’s Nutmeg. She startled me the other night and I don’t like her sneaking up on me.”

“She’s not sneaking around,” Dr. Riley told her, smile gone. “Nutmeg is supposed to check on everyone’s mental, physical, and emotional welfare. It’s upsetting to her when she can’t do her job.”

Tripitaka’s heart fell. In one sentence, the friendly doctor had erased his aura of safety and comfort that Tripitaka had naively assumed he was supposed to have. She nodded, searching for a good response, fixing her face into an appropriately remorseful expression. “I didn’t mean it that way, and I’m sorry. Can you tell her for me? I think I definitely overreacted because I have a lot going on with work…”

His expression softened. “Of course I will. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, we’re always available to talk to, Tripitaka. We want you at your best.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Tripitaka said, edging out of the office and hurrying back to the lab. Her hand went to her shoulder and she pulled up an image of Altaria feet on her tablet, mentally comparing it to her bruise. Altaria had delicate feet with narrow toes that were best suited for perching on branches. The bruise, she recalled, was left by a foot made for gripping and crushing, with toes far thicker and stronger than any Altaria could possibly have. There was simply no way an Altaria foot could leave marks like that, much less dislocate a shoulder. It wasn’t adding up. Or as Julie would say, ‘the math wasn’t mathing’.

She arranged her workstation and got back to juggling her reports and data analysis and checking on lab samples, but couldn’t find her focus, her thoughts drifting. Either Doctor Riley had been given the wrong information about the attack, or was lying.

The day wore on and on, and eventually Tripitaka heard the alarm on her tablet ping to let her know to clock out, and she did so, immediately going back to work. There was no chance she was going to get everything done on schedule if she left it for tomorrow. She had learned the hard way that her handlers didn’t accept getting distracted and forgetting to clock out as an excuse for overtime, but then again, overtime in general was frowned upon despite strict project deadlines.

It didn’t take too long to fall back into the rhythm of work, the clacking of her keyboard and humming machinery hypnotizing the hours away.

Someone tapped on the desk and she glanced up. Nadiya waved.

“What’s up?” Tripitaka asked, glancing at the clock, dismayed when she realized she’d missed dinner again.

“I’m bored waiting for my samples to finish centrifuging… and I thought I’d invite you on a little adventure,” Nadiya said with a mischievous grin. She nodded to Tripitaka. “Do you have time?”

“Just give me a second to send this report… I was almost done anyway.”

Nadiya waited while Tripitaka gave the report a last once-over before hitting send and leaning back in her chair, stretching until some joints popped. If there were any spelling errors, the other scientists would be unlikely to notice; she’d proofread some of their reports and their grammar was far shoddier than she would’ve expected from her superiors.

After packing up her supplies, she let the other girl take the lead, pulling on the familiar jacket as best she could without jostling anything. Tripitaka refused to wash it; she desperately wanted to preserve that familiar, comforting scent that persistently clung to the fabric, waiting for it to trigger some sort of revelation in her mind that she felt like she was on the precipice of discovering. Even though the scent was fading and was gradually being replaced by her own, she still held onto the faint shred of hope it had come to nebulously represent.

“This wasn’t the adventure I thought we were embarking on,” Tripitaka commented with an amused look when the pair stopped in front of a janitorial closet. Nadiya rolled her eyes and walked in.

“It’s not the closet itself. It’s what’s underneath it,” she told Tripitaka, running her hand along the wall, shoving aside supplies until something clicked. She chuckled.

Part of the wall shuddered, dust flying out of the outline of a hatch, which Nadiya pulled back to reveal a ladder. Tripitaka was impressed, following behind her.

“How did you know this was here?” she asked, stepping carefully on the old rungs to avoid angering her shoulder.

“I was bored one day and poked around the network and dug around in the public files,” Nadiya answered with a shrug. “Then I got even more bored and cracked the private files and found some blueprints. This place is way bigger than they advertise.”

“I didn’t realize hacker was part of your resume,” Tripitaka said, hopping down the last step to stand beside Nadiya.

“I only use my powers for good,” she said with a grin, tongue poking out. She gestured down the narrow tunnel, dimly lit by emergency red lights. “You can probably see why I didn’t invite anyone else.”

Between Asher’s debilitating claustrophobia, Julie and Stefan’s fear of the dark, and Masato notoriously difficult to track down for anything other than work and his own solitude, Tripitaka was the only realistic adventure candidate left.

Nadiya gestured for Tripitaka to follow, holding her phone as a light. The concrete tunnel smelled like stale antiseptic and mildew, dilapidated and sterile in an off-putting way. It appeared that no one had been down here for years, and Tripitaka had to wonder why it was here.

“Maybe this place was an access hatch or emergency exit somewhere,” Nadiya mused, unwittingly answering Tripitaka’s question. “I was just curious where it goes, really.”

“Well, even if this journey ends up being a dud, it’s still something to break up the day,” Tripitaka chuckled.

“Yeah, you’ve been working really hard!” Nadiya exclaimed. “Honestly Masato and Julie are stuck fighting for second place… you’re always at the top. What’s your secret?”

Tripitaka waved her off, feeling uncomfortable with the praise. “If there is one, I don’t know about it. I still can’t figure out how their point system works; it seems arbitrary at best.”

“Yeah. It’s a shame you still don’t have your dorm room set up,” Nadiya said, voice full of sympathy. “You’d think they’d want their top candidate to be comfortable…”

“They keep running into issues. It’s fine…” Tripitaka lied. At this point she had accepted her fate that her individual room would most likely be finished the day after she left the internship, but she had a feeling her back was going to be permanently damaged by the low-quality mattresses in the group dormitory. She’d tried them all; they were all the same. “I’m used to it.” It was another lie, but she didn’t want Nadiya to feel awkward.

“Alright, now that we’ve got the Bechdel test nonsense out of the way, what’s going on with you and the head of security?” Nadiya asked, leaning in close and holding her light over Tripitaka’s face like she was being interrogated.

Tripitaka rolled her eyes, smiling at the intern’s conspiratorial grin. “Nothing, really. We just talk about battles and trainer stuff, when I can get words out of him at all. If I had to guess, I don’t think he’s into anyone or anything at all. He really doesn’t seem to care about that stuff.”

“Shame, really,” Nadiya sighed. “He’s quite a looker. Asher is going to be devastated; they’ve had the biggest crush on that guy as soon as they laid eyes on him and that gorgeous head of silver hair.”

“That is a shame. The two of them would have the best hair in the entire facility,” Tripitaka mused.

“So? Anyone you have your eye on?” Nadiya prompted. “I know work isn’t the best place to be on the prowl for dates, but considering we don’t really have any options…”

“I don’t…” Tripitaka frowned, voice trailing off, hand absentmindedly going to her lips as the memory of a sensation ghosted the skin. Her heart suddenly ached, feeling a profound loss for something or someone she couldn’t describe. Something was missing, but she didn’t know what it was, the hole the shape of home and comfort that she couldn’t define. The closest feeling she could equate it to was the wave of loneliness that bubbled in her chest when she found herself thinking of Sage and Echo and being turned away yet again when she asked to visit them.

But it wasn’t the same.

She blinked, shaking the void out of her skin. “Haven’t really had the time to look, if I’m honest.” If she was even more honest, she had a feeling that mysterious spot in her heart was occupied, but didn’t want to call any attention to it or her discomfort in the inability to define it.

“Eh. It’s probably why you’re consistently at the top,” Nadiya shrugged.

Tripitaka let the conversation peter out, still trying to grasp at the nameless void in her soul but finding nothing but infuriating silence.

Her shoulder was bumped again. “So I do have to ask… why the fascination with Tyranitar?”

Nadiya’s question made Tripitaka frown. “He’s our main study subject. Of course I’m interested in him.”

Her answer was met with an eye roll. “We have more than enough data on him and the species in general.”

Tripitaka shook her head. “I just feel like we’re missing something obvious about him. I want to interview him, but they keep telling me no. I’ve submitted so many proposals, even taking safety measures into account, but nothing.”

“Well it’s kind of a waste of time… it’s not like he talks,” Nadiya shrugged. “Not that I understand Pokéspeech anyway.”

“There’s plenty of ways to conduct an interview when the subject is nonverbal,” Tripitaka pointed out. “I don’t understand the pushback.”

Nadiya halted. “Well, it looks like you might get your chance…”

Tripitaka paused, following Nadiya’s light to some wide metal pipes going up the wall of the tunnel. Through the gaps, she could see the metal give way to stone and dirt and grass, and now that she was paying attention, could hear the faint sound of running water.

The tunnel led right next to Tyranitar’s enclosure.  

The two exchanged a look.

“I thought there was a solid wall between the tunnel and the enclosure,” Nadiya mused. “I must’ve misread the blueprints.”

Tripitaka walked a bit further and saw there was a metal screen that took very little encouragement to fall off the wall that offered a better viewing window, although there was still quite a gap between the heavy steel bars of the enclosure’s perimeter and the tunnel itself. Nadiya crept up next to Tripitaka, and after a shared glance, the two peeked out the window and looked right into Tyranitar’s puzzled eyes.

Nadiya fully flinched back with a startled gasp, and even Tripitaka couldn’t help but jump. The dinosaur was leaning down to get a proper look at them, stretching his head through the bars as far as the enclosure allowed. He rumbled, the noise sending shivers into Tripitaka’s chest. He clearly hadn’t been expecting visitors so late, nor from this angle. He peered past the window to get a glimpse into the tunnel, but his attention soon wandered back to Tripitaka.

“Well if we’re here,” Tripitaka whispered, switching her tablet into recording mode, trying to think of what question she wanted to ask first.

Nadiya tugged on her. “I don’t know... You may be the Tyranitar whisperer, but I don’t think this is a good idea.”        

Tripitaka made a shushing motion with her hand and glanced up at Tyranitar. Nadiya shrank back. “Can you answer a few questions for me?”

The Pokémon remained where he was, a blank expression on his face as his gaze never left hers, attention locked squarely on Tripitaka.  His brows ever so slightly furrowed and he inhaled deeply, nostrils flaring, eyes searching Tripitaka’s face. He let out a whine, his breaths speeding up.

“Please don’t get upset; just take a second and take deep breaths,” Tripitaka coached, glancing around and hoping that the multiple cameras pointed into the enclosure wouldn’t see them. Their colleagues probably wouldn’t be happy to find out that their interns were doing an unauthorized interview in a blocked off tunnel. The dinosaur fell silent for a moment, trying to focus on her words, before he snorted again, expression darkening, eyes darting back and forth.

“It’s okay,” Tripitaka soothed, reaching out a placating hand. The dinosaur sharply inhaled, pupils fully dilating. Tyranitar roared and abruptly slammed his head into the wall, claws straining and swiping the air as he reached wildly towards her. Nadiya yanked Tripitaka back, pale as a sheet. With a scream that nearly split their ears, Tyranitar gnashed at the bars like a slavering and rabid beast, tail thrashing into the ground, metal and the earth itself groaning under the assault. Alarms blared and warning lights flashed, a bustle of activity kicking off in the distance.

Tripitaka needed no further encouragement as Nadiya cried out, and the two fled back down the dark tunnel, Tyranitar’s haunting wails echoing behind them. When they finally got to the base of the ladder, Nadiya was doubled over, hands on her knees.

“Tripitaka, that was stupid and dangerous,” she finally gasped out. “But you’re the bravest person I’ve ever met.”

Tripitaka really wished that people would stop telling her that. Even if it was brave, she still didn’t get the results she wanted. “That certainly wasn’t a dud of an adventure,” she finally said instead. “Maybe next time we can see where the tunnel actually ends… we didn’t go the entire way.”

Nadiya shook her head. “I’m good on adventuring for a while, thanks. But Tripitaka… please don’t go down there by yourself.”

Tripitaka promised she wouldn’t, bitter guilt flooding in. They’d upset Tyranitar, and Mienfoo and Silver and the rest of the containment Pokémon probably had to wake up to… contain him. The last thought left a bitter taste in her mouth now that she knew what that actually entailed. The two parted ways, Tripitaka going back to the lab, now too wired to even think about sleeping. She might as well get a jump start on tomorrow’s work, anyway.

---

Her alarm went off next to her ear. Groaning, Tripitaka raised her head to be greeted by the spreadsheet she had been working on now adorned with an uninterrupted line of ‘zzzzz’s covering at least thirty pages. She peeled off a paper stuck to her face, mouth dry and probably smelling like something died in there. Upon sitting up, her jacket fell to the floor from where it had been draped over her shoulders by someone that definitely hadn’t been her.

A sticky note was near the keyboard, and she saw something was written on it. She rubbed her eyes and blearily looked at the neat handwriting on the note.

Didn’t see you at dinner and found you face down on the table at 3:00 AM during my sweep. Lock the door next time.

Next to the note was a protein bar. Tripitaka had to smile. He hadn’t signed his name, but it could only have been Silver. She didn’t know he cared so much. Or that he could care at all. Although his note was straightforward on the surface, it seemed more like a hint. Maybe she could sleep in the lab and lock out any potential intruders, playing it off as being a diligent, hardworking intern. It certainly wasn’t the best idea, especially for her back pain, but she’d rather be uninterrupted by a certain nosy Ninetales.

Maybe she was overreacting, but she couldn’t ignore the gut feeling that she could never fully let down her guard here. She and the other interns were under a microscope, and if she wanted to keep her job, she needed to proceed with utmost caution.

---

Even if her schedule kept getting more and more hectic, Tripitaka made a point to walk around the facility at least once a day for some semblance of exercise, and usually her feet took her to the training room. She hesitated at the deserted hallway that led to where Sage and Echo were, glancing around to make sure no one was looking her way.

“Echo?” she whispered, forming the words in her mind. “Do you have your telepathic ears on?”

Silence, as per usual. Her skin crawled, and a horrible thought sneaked into her mind. Was Echo even in there?

A guard emerged from the training room, followed by a pair of Sandslash, and Tripitaka took the opportunity to slip inside after them. The main arena was empty, so Tripitaka took the stairs to the observation deck that encircled all of the arenas. She noticed the second largest arena, modeled after a jungle theme, had an obstacle course of sorts with various Pokémon dotting the trail in a sort of gauntlet, with a bright red flag at the very end. An air horn blasted, and Tripitaka’s interest was piqued when Mienfoo began running the course, engaging every single Pokémon along the way. Eventually the others converged upon her, and she was overwhelmed and smashed into the floor. Another air horn sounded, and the other Pokémon resumed their positions, leaving Mienfoo on the floor, wincing and bruised.

“Clear the field,” an unfamiliar voice over the loudspeaker commanded. Tripitaka followed Mienfoo’s gaze to the leaderboard, where her portrait fell down several places. The fighting type’s face screwed into a furious expression, and she stomped over to the stairs, briefly disappearing from view.

Tripitaka watched the next Pokémon, a sleek Sceptile brimming with confidence, easily defeat each opponent in its way, claiming the flag without even breaking a sweat. A sharp cry startled her, and she watched as Mienfoo punched the wall, face twisted into a frustrated snarl. She took several ragged breaths before winning the fight over her emotions, settling into a stance and beginning another kata. Tripitaka watched her, heart going out to the upset ferret. Eventually Mienfoo noticed her and her gaze snapped to the floor, entire body cringing.

“You’re trying really hard,” Tripitaka told her. “You’ve got a lot of spirit.”

Mienfoo shuffled her paws and remained silent.

“If you want to talk, I can always listen,” Tripitaka told her. “I may not be the best at training, but you can vent if you’d like. I won’t judge.” Mienfoo glanced around, eyes darting from the floor to Tripitaka to the floor again. Tripitaka looked to the arena, figuring it might put Mienfoo at ease. “Was that your first time running the training exercise?”

Out of the corner of her eye, she could see Mienfoo glance around again. She huffed, and then started chittering so fast Tripitaka almost didn’t catch everything, almost as if she was rushing to get all the words out before she was silenced.

From what Tripitaka could piece together Mienfoo had tried at least four times but couldn’t beat every Pokémon fast enough to reach the finish line.

Tripitaka frowned. “Who said you have to beat them all? Isn’t the goal just to reach the flag?”

A look of revelation brightened Mienfoo’s eyes, and she studied the arena again.

“If you can’t win by their rules, just change the way you approach the battle,” Tripitaka told her, reaching over and giving the Mienfoo a pat. “If the rules aren’t fair, don’t play by them.”

Mienfoo smiled, and a look of hope crossed her face. Tripitaka smiled back at her. “You can do this, I just know it.”

Mienfoo’s paws flexed, now wearing a determined smile.

“Mienfoo?” Tripitaka asked in a moment of spontaneity. “Are you happy here? With Silver?”

Mienfoo’s head tipped to the side, regarding Tripitaka with suspicion. “Why does it matter to you?”

“It- it just does,” Tripitaka replied lamely. “You deserve to be happy.”

“We agreed he would make me the strongest I can be. That’s all I want.”

Tripitaka didn’t reply, instead swallowing her disappointment out of respect for Mienfoo’s wishes. Echo had that opinion when he was first caught, after all. But what if Mienfoo could find happiness elsewhere?

Mienfoo studied Tripitaka, expression softened. “Are you a trainer?”

Not willingly, but by definition, yes. Tripitaka nodded. “I hadn’t planned on becoming one, but I traveled with three. We even got two badges in Johto.”

“Three Pokémon or three humans?” Mienfoo asked, head tilted.

Tripitaka blinked. Her instinctive answer slipped out of her buzzing mind and she couldn’t grasp what her answer had been. “Th- I had a Hoothoot, Eevee, and I caught an Abra. He’s a Kadabra now.”

“Did you like being a trainer?” Mienfoo pressed.

That gave Tripitaka pause. It wasn’t in her overall life plan, battles stressed her out and coming up with strategy wasn’t in her wheelhouse, but the companionship and satisfaction of seeing her team get stronger and more confident outweighed her skill deficit. She nodded again.

“I sometimes find myself wondering how different my life would have been if I had become a trainer and not a researcher,” Tripitaka admitted.

“Or if you made different choices along the way,” Mienfoo said, voice now quiet. Tripitaka glanced at her, and Mienfoo met her eyes. “I wonder that too.”

Another air horn sounded, and Tripitaka took that as a good moment to bid farewell to get back to work before anyone questioned her absence. On her way back, she was struck again with a familiarity with the ferret that seemed to extend beyond her time at the research facility. Upon turning the emotions over in her mind, she could pick out a sense of admiration and hope followed by bitter disappointment.

What if, in another timeline, Mienfoo was originally hers, instead of Silver’s? Would Mienfoo be happy with her? Would Tripitaka be able to provide for her high training drive and dedication to battles when Tripitaka wasn’t nearly as capable as Silver? The pair had clearly worked out a deal between them. Plus Tripitaka wasn’t the type to covet another trainer’s Pokémon; she was perfectly happy with her three. Two, actually, now that Rén had left, she reminded herself. But her mind kept getting drawn to the Pokémon, as if Mienfoo represented something, a part of her, that she was missing to be whole.

The thought made her uncomfortable. 

It was probably because of some déjà vu she couldn’t explain, that was all. Yeah.

Speaking of Silver, she could faintly hear his voice coming from down another hall, and her curiosity won her over. His urgent voice got louder and louder as she drew near to the Pokémon Resources office, and she casually peeked into the room.

He was standing before a prim woman in a gold pantsuit sitting behind a curved desk, a Venomoth fluttering by her side.

“If its rehabilitation is too costly, then its options are either decommission or being released into its natural habitat,” the woman spoke in a heavy Kalosian accent. Tripitaka noted the nameplate on the desk read Mothrax.

“That’s a joke.” Silver’s voice was flat. “She wouldn’t survive if you threw her out there now.”

“I’m sorry, mon chéri,” Mothrax said in a dismissive tone. “But decommission is what the panel is leaning towards. It’s perfectly humane.”

“Absol has given everything for this company and you’re just going to let her die?” Silver hissed. “This is my partner that you morons assigned me, don’t I get a say?!”

Mothrax shrugged. “Absol is a company asset. It’s at the panel’s discretion what to do with said asset, and so it’s not up to you to decide. You will be assigned a new partner soon.”

“Then give her to me,” Silver snarled. “She’s my partner and I’ll take responsibility. We’ve been through too much together for you fuckers to kill her.”

“I understand this is a highly emotional topic, but there’s no need to use such coarse and unprofessional language,” Mothrax tutted, but she printed out a sheaf of forms. “If this gets approved, you’ll have to provide your own boarding and medical care; we simply don’t have the space or resources for a personal pet, even for a fine employee such as yourself.”

Silver’s eyes spelled murder as he snatched the offered paperwork. “Absol isn’t a pet,” he spat over his shoulder, adding that he’d be back. Tripitaka flattened herself to the wall as he stormed past her. She glanced back inside as Mothrax cooed to the Venomoth beside her and followed Silver.

He noticed her immediately. “What do you want?” he growled, his furious look making her fully flinch.

“I just… what happened?” she asked, trying to keep her voice from trembling.

The corners of his mouth curled, and he came to a stop, taking several deep breaths, seemingly unable to look at her. “Absol got hurt really badly. It was a simple retrieval job that proved to be more difficult than anticipated.”

Tripitaka glanced down. “Was she hurt… when you were rescuing me?”

He didn’t answer, his jaw tightening. Tripitaka nodded. She had her answer.

“I’m sorry.”

He continued to breathe deep, fists clenched. “I told you. I don’t blame you.”

Tripitaka stood in silence, waiting for him to continue. “One of her eyes is completely gone,” he finally told her, sending a shiver down her spine. “The other one is damaged, and we don’t know if her vision will ever fully recover.”

“I don’t understand. There’s plenty of disabled Pokémon that can still do jobs…” Tripitaka said.

Silver shook his head. “Yeah, well, my bosses don’t think it’s cost effective to keep her around as an asset.”

“How is that allowed?” Tripitaka asked. “There’s welfare laws…”

“There’s ways to get around those if you’re financed enough and can bribe the right people,” Silver interrupted bitterly. He rifled through the papers, body slumping. “Even if I get this approved, I don’t know what I’m going to do…”

Tripitaka didn’t have to even think. “Transfer her to the Violet City Pokémon Center and tell them to send her to Sprout Tower. The monks care for abandoned and injured Pokémon there. If you tell them I sent her, they’ll surely help you out. Who knows, Absol might be rehabilitated by the time you’re able to go get her,” she added with her most encouraging smile.

He paused, expression unreadable as always. “I will… consider what you have said, Tripitaka.”

Before she could say another word, he had already left.

---

“Cheers,” Tripitaka, Julie, and Stefan said, tapping their water bottles together and each swallowing a caffeine pill. Tripitaka chased it with a painkiller, hoping it would pull overtime like she was and fix her headache in addition to dulling her usual shoulder pain.

“I can’t help but think that these aren’t good for us,” Julie said with a grimace, tossing her pill bottle into her bag.

“Probably not,” Tripitaka said, rubbing her eyes and going back to typing.

“Maybe we can stop when we’re hired full time,” Stefan murmured, cracking open an energy drink and taking a long swig.

Julie rolled her eyes, accidentally jostling her tray of samples and hissing in annoyance. “If we ever get hired full time.”

“Well, if we can do this, we can do anything,” Nadiya said, walking into the room, yawning. “We just have to hang in there until then.”

“Where’s Asher and Masato?” Stefan asked. “I thought they were on your team today.”

“Masato is curled up under his desk; he pulled another all-nighter last night and told me he’ll join us in an hour. And Asher got called to the enclosure for another observation, so we’ll not be seeing them for a while.”

“Zekrom’s wings I could use a nap,” Julie muttered. “But at least I’m not on observation duty again. I got reamed out for my last ethogram.”

Nadiya wrinkled her nose. “What was wrong with it?”

“They claimed it wasn’t detailed enough,” Julie huffed. “But there’s only so much I can do with ‘subject sat and stared blankly at the wall for six hours’, you know? It’s not like I’m going to embellish it to make it look good.”

Tripitaka could think of several ways to improve and build on the report, but decided to keep her mouth shut. Julie herself admitted she was better suited for lab work anyway. Instead she motioned for Nadiya to come over.

“I had a hunch,” she started, pulling up some video footage. “I combed through all the footage of Tyranitar’s… outbursts.”

“That’s a lot to go through,” Nadiaya commented, brows raised.

“It was. But I noticed the sounds he made are different from what we experienced,” she said in a meaningful tone to Nadiya, who nodded. The pair had decided to keep their little adventure to themselves. “Something about the presence of us interns made him cry out in a very specific way, back when we first met him and… that other time.”

“It wasn’t all of the interns the second time,” Nadiya noted. “And we have both been with him multiple times and he’s not reacted like that before. There’s got to be a specific trigger.”

“Well, I’m still working on that,” Tripitaka admitted. “But I did research on the Tyranitar family and all of the documented sounds and cries. You know what this cry means?”

She played an audio file that was a higher pitched version of Tyranitar’s wails.

Nadiya frowned. “Is that from a Larvitar?” she asked. “What is it?”

“It’s a specific distress call for when a Larvitar wandered off from the nest and got lost,” Tripitaka said, eyes wide. “It’s a child crying out for its parent.”

“So what does that mean for us?” Nadiya murmured, playing the file again. Tripitaka winced at the heartbreaking shrieks. “Something like being a Shadow Pokémon regresses them to being like… a child?”

“I don’t know yet. Maybe. But it’s another puzzle piece,” Tripitaka muttered. Nadiya’s question had her wondering if this was a complete waste of her research time, considering she still didn’t know what she was missing here. “It’s not like I can publish this… they’ll ask about how I got the second recording.”

“Well I have zero clue how you have the time for the side quest research,” Nadiya said, shaking her head in disbelief. “I mean, it’s definitely interesting, but still…”

Tripitaka shrugged. “I’m… good at multitasking,” she said. It was partly true, she was, but it was mostly due to the poor sleep she’d been getting. Between the long work hours and being constantly on guard from prying eyes, she couldn’t remember the last time she’d gotten a full night’s rest.

And it was wearing on her, if the dark shadows beneath her eyes and fragmented thoughts were any indication. It was wearing on all of the interns. But if any of their work quality dipped, they’d all be rewarded with yet more work correcting everyone’s errors. Tripitaka couldn’t let that happen to the team.

Nadiya noticed her delay. “Maybe you should go take a nap under a desk or something too,” she said.

Tripitaka shook her head. “We need to get this done. I’m fine.”

Julie snorted. “If you don’t schedule time for yourself, your body will schedule it for you. Go take a nap. Or at least take one of your little walks and get out of here for a bit.”

Stubbornly, Tripitaka focused on her screen again and tuned the interns out.

“Tripitaka?” Stefan called, waving some cash. “Would you actually run to the commissary and get me some sour candy?” He gestured to his arm crutches with his cheekiest grin. “I don’t feel like walking.”

Tripitaka rolled her eyes and stood. “Just so we’re clear, I know what you’re doing, Stefan,” she chuckled, snatching the offering. “But fine. Anything else?”

“Another energy drink and something for you,” he said, tossing his empty can in the trash. “Take your time, okay? If you do end up taking a nap in the supply closet I don’t think anyone would notice.”

With another playful wave, Tripitaka left them all. As much as she wanted to stay and help everyone finish, a break would do her good, and halfway to the commissary she was appreciative of Stefan’s gesture, even if her feet refused to do anything faster than a plod. When she was ringing everything up, her eyes fell on a nearby basket of apples. Stefan hadn’t asked her to get anything for Gogoat. She wondered if Gogoat missed his partner, considering how busy they’d all been. Tripitaka also hadn’t been able to visit Mienfoo for a while, either. Hopefully she’d passed her training exercise by now.

She passed Silver standing in a hallway, his Scyther standing in front of him.

“Hold onto this for me,” Silver muttered, passing something that the mantis took into his mouth before being recalled. Another guard emerged from a door, and Silver grabbed her attention. “Need to borrow Xatu.”

“Now why would you need a teleporter, sir?” the guard asked playfully, already unclipping a Pokéball from her belt.

“Had a craving for Lava Cookies,” Silver said in his flattest voice, taking the ball. “Be right back.”

She chuckled. “You’d better bring me some,” she called to his retreating back. Tripitaka continued onward, something about that interaction not sitting well with her. Lava Cookies were a specialty of Lavaridge Town in Hoenn, right? That would be a lot of jumps for just one Pokémon to handle, going all the way from Orre to Hoenn. Maybe he was finishing the journey on Fearow? But he made it sound like the journey wouldn’t take that much time at all…

Before she could puzzle it over any further, she was back in the room with the interns and had to dive back into the endless stream of work.

---

Tripitaka yawned for the umpteenth time. The workweek had been blurred into a slog of paid time with unpaid overtime. The days and nights were blurred together into a slurry of tunnel gray exhaustion and work, samples, observations, meetings, seminars, workshops, protein bars, leaderboard, desk, keyboard-

“Did you catch any of that at all?”

Asher was standing in front of her. They tucked a lock of unkempt hair behind their ear. Lately it hadn’t been nearly as well-brushed and glossy as it was when the interns were first introduced; clearly Asher had been sacrificing self-care as much as everyone else. “Yes. But just so we’re clear, could you start over from the beginning?” Tripitaka asked sheepishly.

“I was asking if you could proofread my report… but if you’re too tired, I can ask Masato…” they said, voice tinged with concern.

Tripitaka waved them off. “I’m fine; send it over.”

Asher remained, hands fidgeting. “If it’s any consolation, management said the project is on the verge of a breakthrough. We might be able to take an actual break before long.” They leaned closer. “Your name comes up a lot… I don’t think the project would be nearly as far along if you weren’t here.”

Tripitaka shook her head. She’d hear none of this nonsense until the project was completed.

“Treat us interns right when you’re sitting at the top, Tripitaka,” Asher said with a wink, followed by another yawn. “Thanks in advance. For the report, I mean. Oh yeah, make sure you save your work.”

“Uh, isn’t that a given?” Tripitaka asked with a frown.

“Apparently there’s some security maintenance happening soon and the power grid might go on the fritz.”

Tripitaka closed her eyes and tapped her forehead, preparing her files. She’d completely forgotten that was today; it was rather suddenly announced, and the details were even more vague than usual. The security team was also more irritable; in addition to the maintenance, they’d been scheduled for a facility-wide drill, which were always annoying. The interns were informed to stay out of the way. She had to wonder how Silver was holding up with all of this. She hadn’t seen him since the day he’d asked about borrowing that guard’s Xatu, and that was a while ago. But apparently Silver had been more withdrawn and brusque and snappish with everyone lately, which was saying something. Tripitaka chalked it up to him being worried for Absol; she fervently hoped everything would work out okay with them. Silver deserved it, along with his faithful partner.

The lights flickered, and for once, for just a brief moment, there was nothing but silence as the hums of all the machinery stopped.

Tripitaka leaned back in her chair and stretched. She might as well make the most of the small reprieve and take a break-

A flood of feeling cascaded into her mind, jitters and nervousness and anticipation before her skull blazed with startled incredulity and unbridled relief. She almost doubled over with the force of it, gripping the edge of the table.

Everything switched back on.

“Echo?” Tripitaka blurted out, frantically searching for him, but the comfortable companionship she had been missing for so long dissipated as fast as it had appeared, making her question if it had actually happened.

“What’s wrong?” Asher asked from across the room, alarmed.

“I felt him!” Tripitaka exclaimed over her shoulder, running out of the room. “I felt Echo just now!”

“Wait, where are you going?” they called after her. “What about the report?”

But Tripitaka was already running down the hall to the Pokémon resort center, not caring a bit who saw. This time she wouldn’t take no for an answer from anyone, she was visiting Echo today.

Silver abruptly walked in front of her and held out an arm, screeching her to a halt. Mienfoo looked up at them inquisitively.

“Where are you going?” he asked harshly.

“Silver, you may not understand, but a moment ago I felt Echo’s telepathy, I need to go see him!” Tripitaka exclaimed, trying to dart around him, but Silver hauled her back, expressionless.

“The drill is about to start. Go back to the other interns. Now,” he ordered, firmly shoving her back.

“But-”

“Echo is not where you think he is,” Silver hissed. Tripitaka’s blood ran cold. “Now go. Back.”

Tripitaka bristled. “You can’t just say something like that and just expect me to blindly accept it without elaborating!”

“Yes, I can,” he said simply. “Please go back. I’m asking nicely.” His voice was grouchy as usual but there was an unusual hint of the subtlest pleading mixed into the sarcasm. Tripitaka was taken aback, but before she could reply-

The ground shook with a muffled boom. The lights flickered, and Mienfoo steadied herself on Tripitaka’s leg.

Silver, unmoved as always, swiped across his tablet, flicking through security camera feeds. His expression withered.

“You have got to be fucking kidding me.”

“Did the drill start?” Mienfoo asked, seemingly just as mystified as Tripitaka at Silver’s sudden lack of composure.

“Get her to the other interns and wait for further instructions,” Silver snarled at Mienfoo over his shoulder as he took off. “Do not leave her side!” he shouted, sending out Scyther and disappearing around a corner. “Fucking MORONS…”

Call her crazy, but Tripitaka didn’t think that his last shout was directed at either of them. Mienfoo shoved Tripitaka, urgently tugging at her lab coat, and Tripitaka finally relented, hurrying back to the others.

“What’s going on?” Stefan called when Tripitaka burst into the room, Mienfoo right on her heels. Nadiya ran in a second later, asking the same thing, already flipping through her tablet.

Masato jogged into the room rubbing his sleepy eyes, Nutmeg urgently herding him in, nipping at his heels. The Ninetales posted herself in front of the door, tails spread wide, wordlessly communicating that the interns would be leaving the room either over her dead body or until this drill or whatever was happening was over.

“I’ve got the security feed!” Nadiya exclaimed. She shot a nervous glance at Nutmeg. “Don’t tell, okay? This is for… our safety. Yeah.” Nutmeg just watched them, head cocked to listen outside the room. The interns crowded around Nadiya and she backed up the footage from the beginning of the incident.

The main door of the facility had been blown open, crashed through by something large and obscured by dust and smoke. Some figures emerged, one was a long-haired man with a staff walking next to an equally furious Infernape. He slammed his staff into the ground.

“Bring. Me. The monk!” he roared, glaring into the security camera, teeth bared in a snarl. Tripitaka’s blood iced over. She could feel the nervous stares of the other interns, but she couldn’t tear her wide eyes away from the screen. “Where is she?!” he shouted again, punctuated by a slam of his staff again and a screech from the Infernape.

Security began to pour in from the hallways, and the Pokémon from both sides sprang into action. The frenzied battle made it difficult to tell who was winning, but she could see Infernape’s fists and flames flying, a Golduck and Kabutops working in perfect sync to guard each other’s backs, a Golem using Rollout to flatten anything in its path… Tripitaka grabbed the tablet and looked closer. A magnificent Noctowl was handling the airborne Pokémon, seizing anything in its way in its huge talons and throwing them aside, while a tiny ball of fluff riding on its back was raining down Shadow Balls and Swifts, pelting targets far below, and she could see a Kadabra blipping in and out faster than she could follow.

“We know she’s here!” the main man shouted. He pointed his staff to the security team. “Bring Tripitaka to us or our attacks turn lethal!” He swung his staff at the head of some security guard that had gotten too close, swatting him to the floor.

“Are they looking for you?” Julie asked Tripitaka, who shook her head, equally confused. She had no idea who these people were. Was she missing something?

Reinforcements started to arrive from where they were gathered in the opposite side of the facility, led by the speedier Pokémon. The massive Noctowl dove straight at the throng, surrounded by a shimmering glint, crashing right into them and sending them flying. The little bundle of fur leaped off its back, darting around with Quick Attacks and directing its ranged moves not at the Pokémon, but the human handlers, forcing the Pokémon to stop what they were doing and go defend them. After realizing the darting ball of fluff was an Eevee, Tripitaka couldn’t help but be reminded of Sage… but her gentle partner would never do that.

Despite the small team of Pokémon facing the security reinforcements, the invaders were far too organized and well-trained. They appeared to be winning. Tripitaka’s heart raced. What if they succeeded? Why were they looking for her?

Mienfoo looked anxious and on edge, paws clenched. Tripitaka could tell that she wanted to help, but Silver had posted her here. What they needed was extra muscle, something bigger and more powerful than all of them put together.

Tripitaka blinked. They did have a Pokémon that fit all of those criteria.

“We need Tyranitar,” she said. The interns gaped at her. Mienfoo cocked her head, intrigued at the suggestion. “He’s seen a lot of battles and is well-trained. He could easily turn the tide.”

“No way. He’s too unpredictable,” Nadiya said, shaking her head.

“Well… it would buy everyone some time…” Asher mused. “The rest of security is still on the way. That scheduled drill ruined everything.”

“I mean, it couldn’t hurt…” Julie said. “That is, if he actually does something.”

“Oh, I think he will,” Tripitaka replied, expression wry. “He’s probably spoiling for a fight after all this time.”

“How are you going to do this?” Stefan asked. “His Pokéball is up on the observation grid and we don’t know the codes to disable the energy shield to recall him even if you could access it.”

Tripitaka glanced at Nadiya, who looked pale, but nodded. “I can do it.” She flipped through other security feeds. “If we go through the tunnel, that should avoid the fighting.”

“What tunnel?” Masato asked, but got waved off.

“There is the small problem of our sentry…” Nadiya pointed out.

Nutmeg noticed everyone looking at her and the door and her eyes narrowed, fur bristling. Mienfoo strode forward to open the door, but Nutmeg snarled at her with uncharacteristic viciousness, flames licking the corners of her mouth. Mienfoo jumped back and glanced at Tripitaka, who understood. There would be no reasoning with the Ninetales.

Asher and Stefan glanced at each other, and before anyone could say anything, they lunged at the Pokémon in tandem, wrestling her to the floor.

“Go!” Stefan shouted, wrapping his arm crutch around the thrashing Nutmeg and yanking it back as Asher pinned her to the floor, screaming for a reason only they knew.

The remaining interns and Mienfoo rushed out, and Tripitaka led them to the closet above the tunnel, directing Masato and Julie to stay inside and guard the entrance. Hopefully the battle wouldn’t head in their direction, although it did appear to be contained in the main lobby area. Before long, the pair had made it to the metal grate that was still on the floor from their last adventure, and Tripitaka squeezed through to look up at the observation deck.

Her heart sank. There were several powerful-looking Pokémon guarding the area, with several scientists huddled inside. There was no way they’d let her get to Tyranitar’s Pokéball, even with Mienfoo’s help.

“Think you can affect the mechanism from here?” she asked Nadiya faintly, who shook her head.

“Even if I could, we’re both not fast enough to take it before you get stopped or worse, fired.”

They both looked at the feed of the battle and the thinning numbers of the facility’s Pokémon. This wasn’t looking like things were going to go in their favor. Tripitaka looked at Tyranitar and bit her lip. The Pokémon was agitated and restless, roaring in response to the muffled noises of the battle and various booms and explosions and flickering lights. Mienfoo watched him carefully.

“Tripitaka! Are you there? Can you hear me?” Tripitaka snapped her gaze to the tablet. The man was standing plaintively, arms out, looking into the camera. She blinked at his expression, fury evaporated into desperation. “I promised I’d take you to your internship!”

“This is my internship…” Tripitaka responded in a whisper, even though she knew he couldn’t hear.

“You can’t just leave us without saying goodbye!” he called out again, not flinching as a Linoone right behind him was snatched out of sight in the Noctowl’s talons.

Tyranitar’s head jerked up, and he noticed Tripitaka right away, lumbering as fast as his species could go. Mienfoo positioned herself in front of Tripitaka, settling into a fighting stance and hissing.

“Tripitaka!” the two other human invaders called, a broad-shouldered bearded man and a skinny, wild-haired girl about Tripitaka’s age.

“Tripitaka, please!” the man called again.

Tyranitar let out a howl in response.

Tripitaka’s hand drifted to her string of beads containing her empty Pokéballs, lips parting. Like a child calling out for its parent.

“Tyranitar, return!” she commanded, the strength in her voice sounding foreign to her. Tyranitar roared and vanished, the recall beam returning him to the foreign Pokéball Tripitaka was holding up.

Monkey’s Pokéball.

“Let’s go,” she told Nadiya and Mienfoo, who were standing there gaping like a Magikarp.

“How?” Nadiya spluttered as they ran back to the entrance of the tunnel.

“I had a hunch,” Tripitaka replied.

“Tyranitar is yours?!”

“No,” Tripitaka answered. “Long story.”

Before Nadiya could pepper her with more questions Tripitaka wasn’t sure she could answer, they arrived back in the closet. Masato and Julie were gone. The tablet pinged, and Nadiya looked at the voice message marked as urgent.

“The intern who sends Tripitaka’s last known location in the next minute will be on the top of the leaderboard unless they really screw things up,” Silver’s voice barked. Mienfoo perked up at the sound.

Tripitaka and Nadiya looked at each other. Nadiya winced, and Tripitaka shook her head at her. “Don’t…”

“I’m sorry, Tripitaka…” Nadiya whispered. “I have to think of my career.”

Tripitaka backed into the hallway, watching as her fellow intern pinged her location on the tablet. “I thought you were my friend,” she said blankly. Nadiya gave her a pained look, and Tripitaka shut the door on her.

A thrill went down her spine, and she looked down the hallway to see Nutmeg standing there and snarling, any pretense of kindness or care long gone. She lunged, eyes gleaming a sinister red, nails scraping the linoleum as she charged.

Tripitaka hurled Tyranitar’s Pokéball. “Get her away from me!” she screamed. Tyranitar materialized in front of her and for a heart-stopping moment Tripitaka thought he wouldn’t do anything. Would he and Mienfoo be enough of a roadblock for her to run away? But just as Nutmeg leaped, mouth agape and fangs bared, he spun and smashed his tail into her body, sending her right into the wall with a mighty crack. She collapsed in a heap, mouth hanging limply open.

Wide-eyed, Tripitaka recalled Tyranitar and ran for the main lobby, hurling the Pokéball once again. He took one look at the chaotic melee and let out a challenging, excited roar, sand swirling around his body. He rampaged into the fray, plowing through or knocking aside anyone unfortunate enough to stand in his way. Mienfoo stayed glued to her side as Tripitaka ran, deflecting any flying debris that might have hit Tripitaka or deterring any Pokémon from getting too close.

Tyranitar stomped his foot, spires of stone erupting from the floor right next to Tripitaka and sending bodies flying, the rumbling knocking her off her feet and landing hard on the floor, chunks of flooring and ceiling raining down around her. Her shoulder screamed in pain as she scrambled to her feet, hauling Mienfoo up and continued to run. Shards of display glass and stone exploded behind her, and she didn’t have time to think if she’d been hit as she ran. She had to find Monkey in this mess and get them out of here.

Her arm was seized and spun her around, dragging her to a crouching position behind the remains of the front desk. She let out a yell and Mienfoo whipped around, snarling, but her expression fell off her face immediately.

“You know, a lot of this would’ve been easier if you had just stayed put,” Silver growled, shoving Tripitaka’s bag into her arms. “Stay here.”

He stood and threw a pair of Pokéballs, Scyther and Fearow appearing with a cry.

“Agility, Double Team, Swords Dance, clear a path,” he commanded Scyther, who nodded and zoomed up, powering up before attacking the nearest target. A nearby Typhlosion spotted them and its neck flames blazed up. “Use Return!” he barked at Fearow, who let out a squawk and smashed the Typhlosion into the wall with enough force to crack the concrete before she performed a corkscrewing dive to crash into a Machoke, swooping up and providing support for the Noctowl.

“What about me?” Mienfoo asked, tail lashing.

Silver gave her a flat stare. “What about you? I released you. You’re free to do whatever you wish.”

“But-” Mienfoo stammered, a stricken look in her eyes.

Silver turned away, scanning the battlefield. “My personal suggestion is you fall back on my previous order.”

“Tripitaka!” someone called, and before Tripitaka could turn to look, someone crashed into her, throwing their warm arms around her in a tight squeeze. She turned to him, and was face to face with Monkey, who looked a mess, but was restraining himself. “Do you know who we are?” he asked urgently, searching her face.

Tripitaka let out a relieved sound and returned his hug. “Yes. My friends.” Monkey pressed himself as close as he possibly could, cradling the back of her head and practically nuzzling her.

“You have no idea…” he murmured, resting his forehead to hers. “How long-”

“Hey dumbass, how about we focus on the task at hand and save your emotional moment for later?” Silver growled. “We talked about this.”

“You guys planned this?” Tripitaka asked, but her attention went to Tyranitar, who let out a frenzied scream. A confused-looking Gogoat galloped out of the way with a terrified bleat, but Tyranitar ignored it, opting to start slamming his head into the wall, howling. She shoved Monkey off and leaped up. “Tyranitar, stop! No!”

Another scream, and his tail slammed into the floor. Something unseen but noticeable swirled around his body, like a dark aura, but Tripitaka blinked and it was gone. Monkey grabbed her hand.

“Tyranitar!” Tripitaka screamed as loud as she could until her voice shattered. Tyranitar’s body went slack, and he turned to look at her, curious, almost contrite. She nodded at him, and he focused back on the battle, his eyes clearer than she’d ever seen. Monkey’s bewildered gaze went between her and Tyranitar. “Uh, yeah, so I found your Tyranitar,” Tripitaka said, voice hoarse. “Long story.”

“You can tell me later, let’s go,” Monkey said, adjusting his sweaty grip on her hand and leading her out of their feeble shelter. He sucked in a breath and shoved her forward as a Mightyena was flung in between them into an overturned table, clawing to its paws and throwing itself back into the battle with a howl. A Vileplume spotted her and released a cloud of violet spores. Tripitaka scrambled forward, and she managed to avoid inhaling the Poison Powder as Scyther slashed its front petals clean off. Monkey hauled Tripitaka to her feet and continued to run, calling for Echo.

The Kadabra blipped beside the pair, winded, dirty, and covered with injuries, but smiled in relief when he saw Tripitaka.

“I missed you,” he said simply. He reached out for Tripitaka’s arm to teleport them to safety, but his shadow extended straight up and a tiny purple goblin leaped out of it to sock him in the back of the head. Echo collapsed like a sack of bricks. The Sableye grinned at them and cackled, but let out a frightened squeak when Infernape sent it sailing through the air with a Fire Punch.

“Was there a Plan B?” Tripitaka asked, recalling Echo in dismay and looking around.

“Uh.” Monkey glanced at the ruined wall they had crashed through, the remains of a semi-truck smoldering and sparking.

“You didn’t have a Plan B?!” Tripitaka said, exasperated, as a small explosion behind them shook the floor.

“We had to improvise, okay?” Monkey groaned.

Fearow squawked, landing beside Tripitaka and lowering a wing.

“Kenya, get her out of here!” Silver commanded. When Tripitaka hesitated, Monkey picked her up and swung her onto the bird’s back as if she weighed nothing. She fumbled around with Tyranitar’s Pokéball and managed to recall him right in the middle of being beaten down by a trio of bulky fighting type Pokémon. There was no way she was going to abandon him now.

“Wait. Why are you helping me?” she asked Silver.

He let out a blast of air, looking behind her and out to the sky. “Your recommendation to the monks who are going to care for Absol means nothing if you’re dead. Now Kenya, go! Find me later.”

With a nod and a single flap of her broad wings, Kenya got them airborne, rapidly ascending into the sky and leaving the facility far below. Tripitaka’s stomach lurched with each beat of Kenya’s wings, and she squeezed her entire body around the bird, feathers clenched in her fists. She could faintly hear a loudspeaker behind them.

“All units, retrieve the asset!”

Tripitaka gasped as swarms of flying Pokémon, unburdened by riders, began to fill the sky behind them. Vehicles of all sorts drove in their direction as well, some paired with speedy Pokémon running alongside. They were gaining on them at an uncomfortable pace. Dark clouds gathered at an unnatural speed, rain droplets pelting them not a moment later. Tripitaka glanced around. The ground was open, so there would be no hiding, but she could see some rocky peaks rapidly drawing near.

“We can hide in there!” she called, pointing to the mountain range. “There might be some caves.”

Kenya let out a cry of confirmation and poured on the speed. Tripitaka’s arms prickled with static, and Kenya’s feathers began to stand on end. Sparks danced around Kenya’s wings, and the bird looked at them and then up at the black clouds around them. Her eyes widened.

“No!” she squawked, flinging Tripitaka off and away from her. Tripitaka yelped at her sudden weightlessness, but before she could grasp what was happening, the Fearow was enveloped in a bolt of lightning, a deafening boom of thunder following as the charred bird plummeted.

Tripitaka tumbled and twisted in the air, her thoughts nothing but panic and I’m going to die and how long do I have? as the ground approached both too fast and too slow.

Empty air grabbed her, squeezing at her frame several times before she slowed down, arms flailing. For a brief second, she landed on nothing, but something solid, but before she could process the break in physics, she was falling again. This time she screamed into the wind whipping into her streaming eyes and dry mouth. Just as the ground got far too detailed and she shut her eyes, she landed on something warm and fluffy, and gravity inverted again, her stomach going to her feet.

She chanced opening her eyes to see a blue bird with two long plume feathers streaming behind its small head. Two fluffy cloud-like wings carried them back into the sky, and the bird looked behind it to meet her eyes, letting out a sweet chirp.

Altaria? Tripitaka wanted to ask, but her body was too rigid to form the words, instead devoting all of her energy to squeezing the feathers to keep her firmly on the Pokémon’s back. Altaria angled them towards the mountains again, and draconic flames swirled around its body.

“Hold on,” the Pokémon said in a feminine voice, and she began to dip and dive midair in a sort of heart-racing dance, and Tripitaka could see them speeding up, wind howling past them.

“Are you Monkey’s Pokémon?” Tripitaka finally manage to rasp out when Altaria’s flight leveled and the flames died out.

“I am.”

A beam of ice shot through the air nearby, and Altaria hummed, seemingly unbothered as other ranged attacks began to surround them. The mountains were still too far away, and the faster Pokémon had caught up to them despite Altaria’s Dragon Dance. Altaria banked, turning to face their pursuers, launching a Dragon Pulse and effortlessly evading an Ice Shard flung at her. The draconic flames surrounded Altaria again as she sped up, artfully incorporating her dodges into the dance, going back on the offensive as soon as she was finished. Pokémon began to drop from the sky, and it was all Tripitaka could do to just hang on and unhelpfully scream to look out! every so often, but Altaria had the situation well under control. If Infernape was an indicator of the strength of Monkey’s training, Altaria would be no exception.

A Honchkrow dropped after taking a Moonblast to the face, and Tripitaka looked over to see Scyther buzzing towards them, a wide-eyed Monkey hanging onto him for dear life, the huge Noctowl in hot pursuit.

“Head for the mountains and drop us off!” he yelled. “You’ll fight better unburdened!”

Altaria banked without a word, opting to blast a Yanmega out of her way with a Flamethrower and preparing an Ice Beam of her own at a Gliscor diving at them. Before Tripitaka knew it, Altaria was folding her wings and shaking Tripitaka off her back at the mouth of a cave, taking off and charging up a Dazzling Gleam to fry every Pokémon in range. Scyther none-too-gently flung Monkey off next to her and ascended, sharpening his scythes and slicing through anything that wasn’t Altaria or the Noctowl.

“Rén, remember to use Reflect before going on the offensive!” Monkey shouted, sending out Infernape to light up the sky with Flamethrowers.

Tripitaka spluttered, legs shaking from the flight. “Rén’s here?” As soon as she said it, the last cobwebs covering her locked away memories fell away. Rén evolved. Rén blinded Absol. Rén was here. Rén was alive. She staggered, and Monkey grabbed her arm to steady her.

“You okay?” he asked, eyes searching hers.

Tripitaka’s eyes blurred with tears, and she struggled to focus on the battle above them. Rén was getting smacked around, but he refused to back down, using Zen Headbutt and slashing with his talons on anything nearby. Altaria and Scyther were far more adept at aerial combat and so didn’t look too hurt, and Infernape was battered from his previous battle but was still going strong. But the numbers were starting to pile up. She reached down for Tyranitar’s Pokéball. He certainly was powerful, and he would be at an advantage on a mountain…

She sent the dinosaur out, who appeared with another roar, tail thrashing and clearly expecting to be surrounded again.

“Rock Slide on the flying Pokémon!” she called.

He raised his arms, and chunks of the mountain ripped from the earth and splintered into the flock of Pokémon, scattering those not caught in the attack.

“Tyranitar…” Monkey breathed, still not believing his old friend was standing before them.

Tyranitar glanced behind him at Monkey’s words, and his brow furrowed. Tripitaka’s heart fell. She knew that look; Tyranitar was starting to get overwhelmed.

“Tyranitar, please, use Rock Slide again!” Tripitaka said, hoping to divert the Pokémon’s muddled emotions. The dinosaur looked like it wanted to obey, raising its arms, but he snorted hard, blinking.

“What’s wrong, bud?” Monkey asked, reaching out. “It’s me…”

Tyranitar recoiled from Monkey’s hand and let out a howl, smashing his tail into the side of the mountain. He screamed again, raising his arms for a wild Rock Slide, chunks of rock ripping from the sides of the cave all around them.

The cave shuddered, and a chunk of the ceiling fell behind them. The entrance started to collapse.

“Infernape!” Monkey yelled as he grabbed Tripitaka. His partner glanced back and sprinted towards them, and Tripitaka recalled Tyranitar with a scream as the world crashed, rocks and dirt and dust raining down around them-

Until there was nothing but dark silence.

I’ve always been taught to be brave and strong
To see the hope when all feels wrong
I’ve always been taught to not be afraid
And look, the price, the price I’ve paid

I’m barely afloat
My sails are set, and I’m coming home

Chapter Text

Tripitaka wasn’t sure whether she had lost consciousness or not. Everything was too dark, but eventually the ringing in her ears subsided and she could taste the dry dust in her mouth and feel Monkey’s hands on her shoulders.

“-okay? Tripit- you with me?”

“Yeah,” she replied, not hearing her own words but knowing she’d made them. “Present.”

The warmth left her and she could hear rocks clattering to the ground. The darkness was replaced with flickering firelight and everything came into focus as she looked down and saw herself lying in the dirt surrounded by fallen pebbles and a cloud of settling dust. She licked her lips and instantly regretted it, spitting out the mud she’d made in her mouth. Monkey was digging at the entrance to the tunnel, and she could see Infernape’s flame illuminating through the cracks of the boulders pinning him down.

“It’s okay, bud I’ll get you out, no worries. Don’t move, alright? I got this…”

Infernape just groaned in response.

“Just recall him and send him back out again,” Tripitaka suggested tiredly, stuffing the useless bottle back in her bag and taking inventory of her exhausted limbs.

Monkey’s digging efforts halted and he huffed a sigh. “Oh yeah, right… Lucky Pokémon.” He fished around in his pocket and zapped Infernape into his Pokéball, plunging the two of them into complete darkness again. Tripitaka couldn’t see any daylight peeking through the rockslide that Tyranitar had created, her heart stuttering in the grip of fear.

Infernape’s flames lit up their cave again, who sighed with relief. “That’s better,” he murmured to Monkey. Infernape’s head snapped up. “I smell blood. Who’s hurt?” he asked, glancing between the two of them sharply, gaze settling on Tripitaka, who just realized her head was throbbing. She absently touched a hand to her hairline and her fingers returned sticky.

“I guess I got clipped by one of the rocks. I’m fine; I don’t even think it’s bleeding anymore,” she assured the Pokémon, who grunted, now holding one of his arms. Monkey drew close and he gently turned her head this way and that to get a better look, making her feel warm under his intense scrutiny.

“I didn’t notice. I’m so sorry, monk,” he said, his face the picture of remorse.

She waved him off. “You were a bit busy.” She glanced around at their cave and noticed there was plenty of room to stand up in, a spacious, circular tunnel stretching behind them.

“I don’t think it would be a good idea to send Tyranitar out again to try and dig us out,” she said mildly.

“He’d probably make it worse,” Monkey replied bitterly. He quickly met her eyes. “Not that I blame him or you for this, of course, but-” She shook her head to stop him before he spiraled. His mouth pursed. “Even if Echo was able to teleport, Lavaridge is too far away with the two of us. Infernape, can you dig us out?”

Infernape shook his head. “I think my arm’s broken.”

“Damn.” Monkey prowled over to the wall of rocks separating them from the outside world and cracked his neck, resolutely beginning to pull rocks aside. Dust and pebbles rained down from the ceiling before he stopped, worriedly looking up.

Tripitaka realized she was still holding her work bag, but had no idea what was in it; Silver had just shoved it into her arms back when they were escaping the facility. A quick glance showed some of the meager possessions she’d acquired at the dorm were in there along with her phone and work tablet. The other pocket held something far more interesting; several paper files and a stack of data cards and flash drives. She’d have to go through them later. If they were important enough for Silver to have her smuggle out, it was worth a look. Maybe they contained security information or details on other projects or even better, an inventory the stolen Shadow Pokémon. But best of all, Silver had packed a few snacks for the road and a flask of water. After triumphantly pulling the flask out, her emotions plummeted when she saw it was completely empty. The container had been damaged, probably during the cave-in, and the water had steadily trickled out of a tiny crack near the base, soaking through the fabric. Figures.

With a sigh, Tripitaka climbed to her feet, legs feeling wobbly, and picked her way around the fallen rocks to put a hand to the side of the cave.

“These walls…” she murmured to no one in particular. “I think these were made by tunneling Onix.”

Monkey frowned. “How does that help us?”

“Well for starters, they aerate the mountain so we don’t need to worry about running out of oxygen while we’re in here. And secondly, if we follow a tunnel, they should lead out to the surface.”

Monkey and Infernape glanced at each other, a thousand words that only they understood flowing between them in an instant.

Tripitaka slid down the side of the wall. “I haven’t written a report for today…” she realized blankly, the gravity of her ordeal sinking in.

“Really? That’s what you’re worried about right now?” Monkey asked with a roll of his eyes, pulling out his cracked phone and switching on his flashlight, grousing to himself that of course there was no signal. “You can carve some petroglyphs while you wait here. I’m going to go have a look around. Infernape, stay here with her.”

Infernape shook his head with a fond smile, watching Monkey depart. “Always on the move,” he chuckled, settling down next to her and leaning against the wall.

“I should’ve asked for your Pokéball,” Tripitaka apologized, watching him cradle his bad arm. “I would’ve been able to recall you if the pain got to be too much…”

Infernape was already shaking his head. “I wouldn’t leave you like this. Don’t worry about me.”

“Too late,” she replied.

The primate grunted, a smile on his face. The two sat in silence, and Tripitaka realized this was the longest she’d spent with Infernape when Monkey wasn’t around. She wasn’t sure about how she felt about Troy’s philosophy that Pokémon reflected a trainer’s soul, but Infernape really was a quieter, calmer mirror image of Monkey, a partner that balanced out his trainer’s rougher edges and brought out the best in him. She wondered if she’d ever reach a partnership like that with her Pokémon, and it made her feel nostalgic for all the potential she’d missed out on by not starting her journey earlier.

But then again, if she had started her journey earlier, she probably would never have met Echo, or traveled with Sage. Maybe Rén would’ve still gone with her, but maybe not.

“Things fell apart without you,” Infernape interrupted her thoughts. “Monkey really was a mess. You were missed more than you know… even by that cranky owl.”

Tears rose unbidden in Tripitaka’s eyes. She buried her head into her knees. She could feel the tear tracks run through the dust on her face and she let out a sob.

“That facility…” she managed to blurt out. “What was it? Are we even in Orre?”

Infernape reached an arm behind her and gently pulled her to rest on his good arm. “I don’t know if you heard, but Monkey said that this mountain range is on the outskirts of Lavaridge Town. We’re still in Hoenn.”

Tripitaka let out an empty, almost hysterical chuckle, feeling like the floor had dropped out from under her. Of course it wasn’t real. That would be too easy. None of that internship was real. The other internship was still out there, and she might have lost it by now. Seized by a moment of inspiration, she sat up and dug through her bag, wiping her eyes as best as she could. With trembling fingers, she pulled out her tablet, which hadn’t cracked despite everything that had happened. She barked out a forced laugh. There it was, in front of her face all along. Their company motto.

Creating and Improving Pokémon-Human Experiences and Relations.

“Cipher,” she choked, flinging the tablet away from her and sending it skidding on the floor into the darkness out of reach of Infernape’s light. She grabbed at her forehead and pressed her palms into her eyes until she saw stars. She had caused so much trouble for everyone for this internship, and the internship she went to was nothing but an elaborate lie. All that she went through in the facility amounted to nothing.

No, she was probably helping an evil organization with whatever plans they had all along.

She’d been a fool.

“You didn’t know,” Infernape murmured, hugging her as best he could with his one arm. “That’s how they operate, Tripitaka. You couldn’t have known. You’re back with us and that’s all that matters.”

Infernape didn’t say much else, and merely let her cry until she had nothing left to give. Eventually she calmed, and shook her head.

“I just… I wish…” Tripitaka sighed. “I don’t want to be here. I miss the Tower. I miss Troy, and the monks. I miss working in Elm’s lab. I can’t do this anymore.”

Infernape was silent for a moment, shifting his weight. “I miss my team.” His voice was quiet. “My friends, my family. I miss them so much.”

His soft admission cut right through Tripitaka’s heart, and her homesickness quickly became trite by comparison. Infernape, and by extension Monkey, had been carrying that emptiness inside for longer than Tripitaka had been on her journey. He just didn’t mention it. And then she realized how much time had passed during her journey and her time at the Cipher facility.

“I’m probably late to my internship by now. The real one.” She chuckled, a hollow sound that didn’t sound real. When Infernape didn’t answer, she had her answer. If she hadn’t missed the deadline, she would soon. “Then this entire journey was completely pointless.” Her voice cracked again, her eyes somehow scrounging up more tears to cry at the thought of the wasted time and emotions that could’ve gone to furthering her career elsewhere.

“You gave us hope.”

Tripitaka blinked, and looked at Infernape through blurry eyes.

“Monkey won’t admit it, of course, but… you coming into our lives was what we both needed. More than… anything, really.”

Tripitaka let out a mirthless giggle. “All I’ve done is cause trouble for everyone-”

Infernape abruptly flicked her forehead.

“I’m going to give you the benefit of the doubt since you’ve had a rather shitty time lately and you’re probably not feeling at your best,” Infernape said, his voice patient but firm. “But you need to listen to me. You met Echo. Rén got to travel and evolve, even if he wasn’t expecting it. You’ve learned Pokéspeech. You’ve learned how to battle and grown a lot as a person.”

The shock of Infernape’s interruption rapidly turned into burning shame. She immediately saw where he was going with all of this, and was embarrassed she had let her career anxiety eclipse her new relationships.

Infernape went on, “And as for us… You got Pigsy out of a garbage situation, reunited him with Golem, gave Sandy a family. And you gave me and Monkey a purpose again. All of us, really.” He met her eyes, his sharp gaze now softened. “You returned Tyranitar to us. I know he’s not… himself, but he’s still here. So don’t you dare go thinking your journey was pointless, even if you missed out on that internship. It may not end the way you wanted, but don’t regret taking it. We wouldn’t have met you otherwise.” He rested his chin on his good arm, expression weary, as if his speech gave his exhaustion time to finally catch up with him. “And you asking what the point was hurts. It hurts more than you know.”

“I’m sorry…” Tripitaka whispered, but Infernape shook his head, meeting her gaze again.

“The entire time I’ve been with him, I’ve never seen him smile like that before,” Infernape told her. “He’s never been happier, despite everything that’s happened. That was you. You’ve gotten us further in a few weeks than we’ve gotten in months. Maybe it was fate that brought us together. Or maybe-”

“A taco stand?” she cut in, for once feeling a small smile.

“Yeah.”

Tripitaka sniffled again, tears pricking the corners of her eyes yet again. “You’re right.”

“Of course I am.” Infernape gently poked her forehead in a playful manner so uncannily reminiscent of his trainer that one might have guessed Monkey was next to her and not his partner.

Tripitaka looked into the yawning darkness of the tunnel, and wondered when Monkey would be back from exploring. “Can you tell me more about your team?” she finally asked Infernape. Monkey never spoke about them; the only thing she knew about his other Pokémon was what was available online, but she had always been curious.

Infernape’s smile was small and sad, and he grunted softly, wrapped in memories he’d partitioned off. Eventually he spoke, starting with how their first catch was a Nidoran who eventually evolved into Nidoking, their travels to Mahogany Town where they subdued and befriended a rampaging Gyarados, her scales shining like rubies in the sunset, and how they met Tyranitar back when he was still a tottering Larvitar. He had just started to tell her about Altaria’s habit as a Swablu of nestling on top of Monkey’s head to keep his hair neat and tidy or poke berries into his mouth when Monkey plodded back into view, stopping briefly to scoop up Tripitaka’s fallen tablet.

“Okay, I’m back. Don’t go down the tunnel over there,” he said cheerfully.

“Why?” Tripitaka asked. Infernape huffed, seemingly already knowing the answer.

“I absolutely destroyed it. The wild Pokémon are gonna be avoiding it for decades.”

“That is absolutely disgusting,” Tripitaka grimaced.

He beamed. “I know.” His smile faded. “We should probably get out of here before anyone finds their front porch desecrated.”

“We should,” Tripitaka agreed, slowly climbing to her feet. Monkey reached out and gingerly eased her up, wordlessly looking her over. “I’m fine,” she told him, answering his silent question. “But Infernape…”

“I got it from here, bud. Thank you,” Monkey told his relieved partner as he recalled him. “So I figure we just need the one light for now, so when my phone runs low on battery-”

“We can use my tablet. And I’ve got my phone still,” Tripitaka said, starting to walk. She was adjusting her bag when Monkey stopped her.

“May I?” he asked, gently tugging it towards himself.

Tripitaka shrugged, but gratefully passed it to him. “If you insist.”

“Oh, but I do!” he preened, gleefully shouldering it. “I have to make up for lost time.”

She didn’t feel ready to examine his declaration at the moment and instead asked, “Did you find a way out?”

He shook his head, sobering a little. “I found several dead ends, but there’s one way that looked promising. I figured it would be better for us to regroup and try that one.”

“Do you think Rén and Altaria are okay?” Tripitaka asked, glancing over her shoulder, half hoping the boulders would magically clear away.

Monkey gently nudged her. “I’m not worried about them. Altaria will know what to do. She may be fickle, but she’s clear headed.” His narrowed eyes gleamed with pride. “And she’s strong.”

“Did you get a chance to speak to her before… all this happened?” Tripitaka asked, looking up at him.

Something flickered across his eyes and he shook his head. “The first time I fully saw her in years was when you were… falling.” His posture was stiff and uncomfortable at the notion, and Tripitaka intentionally entered his space to hug his side. He clumsily brought his arm up to give her shoulders a squeeze, letting his cheek bump into the crown of her head in an awkward nuzzle. He sighed into her sweaty, dusty hair, and Tripitaka cast about for a topic to shift his attention towards.

“So what happened with Silver? How did you guys start working together?” she asked. Monkey cleared his throat.

“Well…”

---

Scyther dropped a set of keys covered in saliva by Monkey’s foot and backed towards his trainer, licking his jaws.

“Next Thursday there’s going to be a facility-wide drill at 2:00 PM and the psychic shield is temporarily going to be down. Kadabra can then lock on to her location,” Silver told them curtly. “There’s an escape vehicle at a warehouse on the outskirts of town. Try not to fuck this up.”

“Okay, but you can’t just waltz over here and not give us an explanation,” Sandy hissed. Sage bared her teeth and growled at Silver, who was unmoved.

“Take it or leave it,” he retorted. “I need to get back.”

“Aren’t you worried they’ll notice a missing vehicle between now and then?” Pigsy doubted.

“I wrote the security protocols and I know how to get around them,” Silver replied tartly. “Just do as you’re told.”

Monkey rubbed his forehead. This was a lot to take in all at once, but what else was new? Silver just randomly showed up out of the blue, courtesy of Sage’s tracer implant (they really needed to get that deactivated), and said he was going to help them and that was it? “What’s your angle in all this?” he asked. The only reason Silver was still vertical and not breathing through a tube was that he guaranteed that Tripitaka was safe at the moment, although apparently was being worked half to death.

“I just want you morons to do your job and leave me alone after this,” Silver growled. “I want out, and unfortunately, you guys are my best shot.” He turned to walk away, but Scyther rumbled, wings twitching, and took a few steps forward towards Rén, who had been an imposing figure in the background, silently watching the entire encounter. The mantis locked eyes with the owl and pointedly folded his scythes tightly to his sides, a peaceful gesture amongst his species, silently tilting his head.

Rén’s expression didn’t change, but Monkey blinked and the owl had already slammed the mantis to the ground, easily overwhelming the bug with his new size and strength and pinning him down. Scyther’s limbs were completely immobilized with near surgical precision before anyone could react. Monkey had a strong suspicion that after his defeat, Rén spent a lot of time thinking about how to best take down a Scyther, even if these two never saw each other again.

Rén leaned in close to Scyther’s face, who for once looked uncomfortable, even a bit fearful, staring into Rén’s burning orange eyes. Monkey wanted to tell the Noctowl to knock it off, but figured he’d let this play out and let the two sort out their strained history. Silver folded his arms and looked bored, but his unease was plain to see. Rén’s talons dug into Scyther’s chest armor, mirroring where Scyther had sliced Rén open and nearly taken his life. Scyther snarled, but made no move to resist or attempt to throw Rén off. The snarl petered out into strained gasps when Rén squeezed tighter and tighter, the mantis’ green blood oozing out. Rén’s eyes narrowed into slits, eerily silent as he leaned uncomfortably closer into Scyther’s space, staring into his panicked eyes and scrutinizing every micro expression. His feathers slowly puffed up and his beak parted, inhaling deeply. Monkey braced for a fearsome screech until his quarry cowered into submission, but Rén’s beak closed and he wordlessly, disdainfully, released Scyther. The monster that nearly killed him was now just a tiny, insignificant insect not worth a shred of his time or effort.

Scyther, chest dotted by the bleeding puncture wounds, staggered to his feet, averting his gaze from the owl, message received. “No more bad blood,” he hissed to Rén after several tense breaths. Rén shook himself and picked around his talons, pointedly ignoring him.

Monkey sorely wished Tripitaka had been there to see that interaction, his heart lurching for the umpteenth time when it remembered how much it missed her.

“He’s telling the truth,” Echo said, watching the pair walk away. “I don’t like him, but we do need to trust him for now.”

Pigsy unfolded his arms, letting his posture relax ever so slightly. “I guess we need a plan.”

---

“So that was it? Silver just popped in and helped you guys and you all turned into a strike force that could hold off the entire security team and their Pokémon that Silver trained himself?” Tripitaka asked, her brain catching up to a strange sensation in her shoe. “Ugh…” she muttered, realizing her sock was squishing.

Monkey glanced down at her with a questioning sound.

“I must’ve stepped in a puddle or something…” she huffed.

“That’s not mine, I promise,” Monkey assured her brightly. “I took care of that in that other tunnel.”

“Again, gross,” she replied, a new fear unlocked and desperately longing for a shower as soon as they were outside.

“And yeah, of course we could easily overpower those goons; we’re badass trainers that trained some badass Pokémon,” Monkey bragged. “Need I remind you I’m world champion? Plus when we weren’t looking for you, we were getting everyone ready for a rescue mission. Even your team got in on it; they probably are eager to show off their new moves I taught them.”

“I noticed you told Rén to use Reflect… and he also used Protect…” Tripitaka realized.

“Yeah, he demanded I make him stronger after he healed up, so I grabbed as many TMs as I could for all of them. Of course Rén turned a purely defensive move like Protect into something he can use for offense. He’s really something; I’ll have to steal his technique later, but it works for him because he’s so big and strong now.”

That was so like him. It made her smile. But then she thought of Sage, and her pride faded.

“Oh, and Sage!” Monkey exclaimed. “You’d have been so proud. She’s insanely accurate with her Shadow Ball; she can bullseye pretty much whatever you ask her to aim for. That’s really impressive for such a young Pokémon. She’s also really hard to hit in a battle. That dodging training is paying off big time. Paid off, I should say. She still needs some work with the actual strength of her attacks, but that’ll come with time.”

Tripitaka was silent as she chose her next words carefully. “I noticed she was attacking humans just as much as other Pokémon.” Monkey stiffened, but didn’t refute her. She wished he had, that what she’d witnessed was the result of a leftover illusion from the facility. “Why?” Tripitaka whispered.

“Because I told her to,” he replied, shame creeping into his voice. His darting eyes, now looking extra shiny in the light, stared into her own, as if he was terrified she’d leave him, even if they were trapped together underground. “She didn’t want to, and she’s never going to do that again unless you’re in danger, so don’t be mad at her. Please, Tripitaka… Please, just blame me.”

He didn’t need to ask; she already was going to do just that. “Monkey, she’s a very impressionable and gentle Pokémon…” Tripitaka tiredly sighed, unable to conjure any burning anger towards him, although she deeply wanted to and knew she should, at least from a legal and moral standpoint. But at the moment, she was just too emotionally strung out.

“I told her that she’s not strong enough to be an all-out attacker like the others. Not yet, at least,” Monkey added hastily. “But attacking the humans forces their Pokémon to stop and defend them and it disrupts their rhythm. We needed every advantage we could, and as I expected, no one actually got hurt by it. She didn’t like doing it, we both know it’s wrong, but she agreed to do it if it meant helping you.”

“They shouldn’t have even been there,” Tripitaka bit out. “Not just Sage, but all of them-”

“-And I couldn’t keep them away, even if I wanted to! I tried!” Monkey exclaimed desperately. “Echo said he would just teleport Sage and Rén out of reach if any of us even thought of trying to leave them behind. They are your Pokémon, Tripitaka, and they had every right to fight for you alongside us. I know the thought of that is scary and you want to keep them out of danger, but all three of them, even little Sage, are mature enough to make that decision for themselves. And I couldn’t take that from them.”

Tripitaka closed her eyes and breathed deeply. The thought of any of her team getting hurt or worse on her behalf was making her nauseated. She felt Monkey’s warm fingers brush against hers and linger before they withdrew.

“I’m sorry,” Monkey whispered. He hesitated. “But I don’t regret it. Regardless, if you can, that is… will you forgive me?”

Tripitaka waved him off and made a point to increase her pace. “Yes, yes, of course. I just want to get out of here and make sure everyone is safe.” Monkey matched her pace instantly, hovering close by her shoulder. He was mercifully quiet, but given his unsure posture, he didn’t seem like he had fully accepted her answer. She had a feeling he was going to ask her later, maybe when her thoughts weren’t so jittery and anxious and overwhelming. She told him to keep talking; his voice was the only thing that made sense right now in the dark.

He cleared his throat. “Well, the plan was actually a stealth mission…” He paused as Tripitaka had to fully stop and catch her breath after laughing so hard. “It was!” he whined, chuckling when Tripitaka involuntarily snorted.

“But…?”

“We were supposed to be a delivery truck, sneak in and snatch you up while everyone else was distracted with the drill,” Monkey explained, rubbing the back of his head.

“But…?” Tripitaka goaded.

Monkey huffed. “Pigsy was the only one of us who knows how to drive,” he admitted swiftly. “And he has a terrible poker face under pressure. So when the security checkpoint asked to see the back of the truck because Pigsy took too long entering the security Silver gave us because he’s an old man who forgets important stuff, he panicked. I heard, and I quote, ‘fuck this’ before he floored it and had Golem blast a hole in the side of the building before we crashed through and totaled the truck. So uh, yeah. I think we did alright, all things considered.” He shot her a pretty, tight-lipped smile.

Tripitaka rolled her eyes. “I’d expect nothing less. Rén probably liked the improvised plan better.”

“I think we all did, actually.”

She smiled, the mirth of her rescuer’s mishaps chasing the nebula of unease away for a brief second. She couldn’t put a finger on it, but something just wasn’t settling in her mind. Maybe it was just leftover tattered nerves from the day’s events, maybe her mind was getting freaked out from being underground for so long, but her heart was racing despite their steady walking pace, driven to the new tempo by a vague dread that something was wrong. She glanced up at him, taking a deep breath to try and calm down. “If you had gone through with the original plan, would you have taken the other interns with you?”

He hesitated. “If they had wanted to go, then yes, of course. But to be honest, nerd… I don’t think they would have,” he added carefully with the tiniest shake of his head, watching her.

“But it wasn’t real,” Tripitaka protested, thinking back to her fellow interns and friends still trapped in that horrible place.

Monkey ran a hand through his hair. “Silver told us how Cipher works,” he said slowly. “They keep new hires in that general dormitory, more like a holding area, and keep them separated from the outside world, their friends, Pokémon, everything, until they’re fully broken down by the workload and the culture and hypnotized into being perfect, loyal workers that don’t ask questions. It’s why they kept you there so long. Somehow, the entire time you were there, you resisted.”

There was something in his voice, a sense of disbelief… no, awe, that made Tripitaka want to shrink in on herself and hide. She shook her head. “But Silver… He broke free of it?”

Monkey shook his head. “He was never hypnotized.”

Tripitaka was surprised Monkey didn’t sound scornful or even angry at the man that had haunted their entire journey.

“I’m sure he had his own reasons, but he worked for Cipher willingly. His one condition was that his mind remained entirely his own.” Monkey shrugged. “He said it was so he could be better at his job. You have to give Cipher credit… even if they’re an evil organization hell-bent on world domination, they do take their employment agreements seriously.”

“They take sexual harassment pretty seriously too,” Tripitaka mused. He shot her a bewildered look, but she rolled her eyes and explained the excruciatingly in-depth onboarding training, to which he relaxed and chuckled. Her smile faded, the emotions of the day creeping back into her bones. “The interns…. They were my friends. But Nadiya she… we were hiding, and… I mean, I didn’t know at the time it was you guys, but she gave away my location to people that were going to take me away…” Tripitaka’s eyes burned again, and she struggled to fight the sobs rising in her throat.

Monkey rested his free hand on her shoulder. “If you chose to be friends with them, then they’re good people,” he soothed. “You’ve never once been wrong when it comes to judging people’s character. Realistically, I think they all would’ve done the same thing as Nadiya, no matter how tight you all were. They were all hypnotized and broken down, same as you; they didn’t know any better.” When Tripitaka didn’t reply, he reached down and squeezed her clammy hand. “You can tell me all about them when you’re ready.”

Tripitaka’s lip quivered. “I was just so stupid… I should’ve seen how bad it was,” she whimpered. Monkey’s expression softened and he silently wrapped her into a hug, holding her as best he could with one hand still occupied with the flashlight. Tripitaka buried her head into his chest, bunching up the fabric of his hoodie in her clenched fists. He stroked the back of her head, his cheek lightly resting on her hair. “No… I did see how bad it was. But I still let it happen… let myself be taken advantage of because I wanted this career so badly…” her voice pitched with a tearless, ugly sob. “I was so stupid!”

“You weren’t stupid,” Monkey said, as if he was telling her something as simple as the color of the sky. Still holding her shoulders, he pushed her away to look at her face, but she couldn’t bear to fixate on anything but the ground, already missing the feeling of his arms around her. “You were desperate. They used that against you, against all of you. Even if you weren’t being hypnotized and pressured from every side, would you have said anything that would’ve risked the position that you fought so hard for? No, you wouldn’t,” he said before she could lie and say yes. He let go of her to gently tilt up her trembling chin with his fingers with one hand and illuminate them both with the phone in his other. His desperate, dark eyes searched hers. “They’re the evil organization, remember? They’re going to do evil things. You’re not stupid for being one of their victims. You’re the smartest, kindest, most hard working person I know. And fuck them for taking advantage of that.”

Tripitaka moved to cover her face with her hands to hide from his words, but Monkey was faster, wrapping his hand around both of her wrists and stilling them, his grip firm but gentle enough that she could pull away if she really wanted. “Even if you knew how bad it was at the time, the deck was stacked against you for being able to do anything about it. So don’t take the blame for Cipher’s bullshit, okay? You’re incredible, end of story.”

She didn’t know how to reply, so they stood there until Monkey released her, looking at her up and down and quirking a smile. “You still have my jacket? Looks good on you,” he praised. “I might have to let you keep it after all this so I can see you wearing it again.”

Tripitaka shyly adjusted the collar, starting to walk again. “It was nice because they kept the facility kind of chilly, but…” Monkey raised an eyebrow at her, waiting. “Your jacket was probably the main reason I didn’t get totally hypnotized,” she finally admitted.

Monkey frowned. “I mean, I know it’s fireproof, but I don’t know about deflecting psychic stuff…”

“It was the one thing of my stuff that stuck out and…” Tripitaka’s heart raced even faster. “And it… th- your scent reminded me of something I was missing. Memories of being safe and cared for and… lov- and of home,” she babbled before she lost her nerve.

Monkey’s eyes were wide, lips parted. “Something missing,” he repeated. “Because I was gone,” he added, quiet enough that she almost didn’t catch it. His eyes flicked down to her lips before he took in a shaky breath, schooling his expression into something infinitely more mischievous. “So I’m going to need you to put that in writing that you like how my clothes smell so Pigsy can’t harass me about laundry anymore…”

Tripitaka let out an embarrassed squeal and hurried away from him, Monkey laughing as he caught up within a few strides. She couldn’t help but notice the brief burst of speed had left her embarrassingly winded. Had her time in the facility left her that out of shape…?

Monkey didn’t seem to have noticed, but she did her best to silence her panting.

“So then what happened?” Tripitaka asked with a yawn.

“I mean, you know the rest…”

---

Monkey, with the utmost caution and respect, scooped an unconscious Sage into his arms, pressing a kiss to her forehead, squeezing his eyes shut as he did so. Blood trickled out of her nose and ears. “I guess you picked up on Tripitaka’s team motto of achieving the impossible, huh? Thank you,” he added in a whisper into her ear.

He passed Sage to a worried Sandy, glancing where he could see Altaria speeding away with Tripitaka on her back. “Tripitaka has Sage’s Pokéball. Look after her until we can get her to Pigsy and Comfey. Speaking of…?”

“He took Golem to the server rooms,” Sandy informed him. “They have a nasty habit of not liking electricity. Or blunt force trauma, for that matter.”

Silver grunted behind them. “Might not matter since they may have migrated the important data off-site already.” A rare smile lifted the corners of his mouth. “But it will certainly make them mad.”

“So what now?” Sandy asked, absently rocking Sage in her arms as she watched the swarms of flying Pokémon take off in pursuit of the escaped asset. “I don’t know if Altaria is fast enough…”

Monkey bristled at the notion that one of his Pokémon, even considering their long separation, could possibly be inadequate in any way, shape, or form, but realized that wasn’t what Sandy was really asking.

“If it comes down to it, I’d rather she surrender Tyranitar if it means they leave her alone.”

Silver shot him a scornful look. “You seriously think that Cipher of all things cares if one Shadow Pokémon goes missing when they specialize in making them?”

Sandy blanched. “Tripitaka is the asset. She’s what they’re after.” Monkey’s heart dropped.

“Your little companion made quite a name for herself here,” Silver said, voice neutral. “She even got the attention of the admin in charge of the entire Shadow Pokémon project. They were at a standstill before, but Tripitaka put their research in the fast lane, whether she knew what she was really doing or not. Their goal was to make the ultimate Shadow Pokémon, one that can’t be purified. And she helped them do it.” His expression darkened.

“Is the project going to stop now that she’s out of the game?” Monkey asked, mind racing.

“No, but her absence will slow them down. But I can’t foresee a future where Cipher leaves her alone,” Silver informed them. “Even if this project finishes without her, they know she has a lot of potential. Probably more than they realize.”

There was something about Silver’s last statement that burrowed under Monkey’s skin and irritated his heart. It was like Silver was saying he knew something about her that the rest of them, Tripitaka included, didn’t. “What is it?”

“She resisted the hypnosis, which everyone noticed. What they didn’t notice is that Tripitaka can see stuff no one else can. I told her to keep it to herself, but her reaction to Tyranitar going nuts back there confirmed it.”

Monkey wasn’t surprised; Tripitaka had a knack for noticing things from an unconventional perspective and had a sharp attention to detail, but that wasn’t something that needed to be a guarded secret. No, Silver was alluding to something else.

“Confirmed what?” Sandy asked, still suspicious of Silver despite everything he’d done.

“She can see Shadow Pokémon.”

If Silver were talking about anyone else, Monkey would have scoffed. But since it was Tripitaka, he just frowned, processing. “I thought Shadow Pokémon were indistinguishable from normal Pokémon unless you have some special machine to detect their energy or something.”

Silver spread his arms. “I don’t know what else to tell you, I’m not a fucking scientist. But I know what I saw. And that you need a ride.”

Rén chose that moment to touch down in the middle of them just to launch himself into the sky after Tripitaka without a backwards glance.

“Yes, so it seems,” Monkey said lightly, watching their group’s remaining flying-type shrink in the distance.

With a sharp whistle from Silver, Scyther pulled up next to them, wings buzzing. He glanced expectantly at Silver, who nodded at Monkey. “Try to not grab the sharp parts or swallow your tongue or something.”

Monkey fought the urge to punch Silver in the face.

“Oh yeah, one more thing…” Silver said, tossing Monkey a minimized Pokéball. “Recall my Fearow on the way, if you can. Scyther, you can eat her if she’s dead. Hurry up.”

“Whatever, dude,” Scyther muttered as Monkey tried to find the best way to cling to the mantis without impeding his flight or falling to his death.

What he came up with certainly wasn’t dignified or comfortable in the slightest, but it didn’t matter if it meant he could be reunited with his little monk.

---

“What do you mean I know the rest?” Tripitaka scoffed. “Did anything happen while I was with Altaria?”

Monkey shook his head. “Nope.”

“Why are you lying to me?”

He looked taken aback, thrown off at her blunt question. “What makes you say that?”

“Ever since we’ve met I’ve been able to tell when you’re hiding something; usually I just don’t bother to call you out on it,” Tripitaka informed him. “Your nose gets twitchy.”

Monkey sighed, biting his lip. He faced her directly. “Do you trust me?”

It was Tripitaka’s turn to be taken aback. “Of course I do. You know that-”

“So trust me when I say it’s not important right now. I swear I’ll tell you everything once we’re out of this cave and back with everyone, okay?” his voice turned pleading.

“If you say so…” Tripitaka agreed warily. She wasn’t a fan of him keeping something potentially important from her in an effort to protect her feelings, but he probably had his reasons. “Can I get a summary at least?”

His expression brightened at her acquiescence. “Silver loaned Scyther to me in exchange for recalling his Fearow along the way and Pigsy and Golem smashed the servers. That’s… pretty much it.”

“I doubt it would have done much good… they probably migrated the important data off-site as soon as they realized they were being invaded,” Tripitaka mused. She shrugged. “But it couldn’t hurt.”

Monkey looked like he was stifling a laugh. His phone chimed, and they both looked at it in confusion before they realized it was just the low battery alert. Tripitaka fished her tablet out of her bag and activated the light for him. “Guess that’s it for my phone. Thanks,” he said as she passed it to him.

He glanced at her as Tripitaka briskly rubbed her arms. “Cold? Even under all those layers?” he asked, shrugging off his hoodie to drape over her, the warmth and comforting scent seeping into her chilly body.

“We’re in a cave,” Tripitaka reminded him with a shiver and another yawn.

“I think you just want to wear more of my clothes,” he teased with a cheerful wink. “Not that I mind or anything…”

Tripitaka chuckled, steadfastly ignoring the confusing paradox that she was sweating like she’d run a marathon and breathing almost as hard, even though her body was demanding warmth. Adrenaline was funny that way. More anxiety panged in her racing heart, but why? Of course being trapped in a cave wasn’t a good situation, but it wasn’t like she was being actively chased…

They fell silent for a while as Tripitaka attempted to sort out and categorize all her puzzling feelings, until Monkey cleared his throat.

“Silver warned us you might not remember who we were,” Monkey began again with a jerk of his shoulder, as if he was trying to play it off but couldn’t commit to the emotion. “Or… remember all that we’ve done together.”

“What if I hadn’t remembered you?” Tripitaka asked, relieved his voice still held the power to dispel the nonsensical alarm rattling around in her mind.

Monkey was already shaking his head. “Doesn’t matter. You never fully broke.”

“But what if I had?” Tripitaka insisted, now strongly attached to the question even if he was right and it didn’t matter. But his answer did matter. And right now, it meant everything. “What would you have done if I hadn’t remembered you?”

He looked at her steadily. “Be with you,” he said simply. It was a reply that sounded as natural to him as breathing, something he was born to do. “I’d be whatever you needed me to be. I know who you are, so whether you knew me or not wasn’t important; I’d love you just the same. I just needed you back.”

He’d love her just the same.

His simple statement knocked the wind out of her, enough to make her dizzy.

“I-” She stopped, swaying on her feet. She had no idea how to reply to him.

His hand went to her side to steady her. “You okay?” he asked, shining the light above her and studying her face. He probably didn’t even realize what he’d said.

“Just tired. Like really tired,” she said.

“Yeah, after we get out of here you definitely need a nap,” Monkey agreed. “Or like five. However long you want. Does the air smell different around here or is that just me?”

Tripitaka took a moment to take several deep breaths, somehow still trying to catch her breath. “Yeah, it’s fresher. I think we’re near an exit.”

As they walked, Tripitaka’s head started to droop lower and lower and she struggled to keep her eyes open, exhaustion weighing them down.

“I guess the adrenaline finally wore off, it’s fine,” she mumbled when Monkey expressed his concern at their much slower pace.

“Hey, come on. We’re not too far away.” Something about Monkey’s voice had changed, like it had shed its playfulness. He was probably thinking ahead to what they would do once they were out of the cave.

“Ask me something,” Tripitaka replied, hoping she could get her sluggish brain working.

Monkey considered. “What’s the Pokémon with the most eyes?”

Tripitaka frowned. This was a well-known trivia question, but it did have some caveats. “Not counting bug type Pokémon’s compound eyes, individually there’s Claydol with ten… but if we’re talking a Pokémon that work collectively as a unit then it’s Falinks and Exeggcute with twelve, provided they have a standard grouping,” she panted.

“Yeah, yeah, I was going for Claydol but that works too, nerd,” Monkey chuckled.

Tripitaka scrubbed a hand over her eyes and dragged in another deep but unsatisfying breath, her legs feeling like they were walking through a thick jelly. “Ask me something else.”

“Uh, how about some moves that a Kadabra learns on their own?” Monkey suggested. “You should know that one.”

“Confusion. Teleport. Disable. Psybeam, Psychic…” She knew Echo had other moves but for some reason they weren’t coming to her.

“Kinesis?” Monkey suggested.

“Right. That one.” Had he ever used that move before?

The silence stretched before them before Monkey nudged her. “Echo learned Reflect.”

Tripitaka’s head bobbed into a nod. “Echo knows… Thunder Punch.”

“He does…” Monkey’s voice sounded guarded. “Kadabra can’t learn that on their own, though.”

Oh yeah. That was the original question.

“Did some Pokémon hit you with a Hypnosis or something while I was exploring the tunnels?” Monkey asked, his voice light but she could hear a strain to it. She was about to tell him that joke was far too soon when she tripped over something and almost face planted on the ground before Monkey’s strong arms caught her. He pulled her back up and closer to him. “Hey nerd? Seriously, are you alright? Are you sure you didn’t get a concussion back there?”

Tripitaka blearily raised her leaden head, a blurry pinprick of light far ahead. “I’ll be better once we’re…” she righted herself, dizzy and cold and tired and miserable, “…out of this cave. Just… ask me something else…”

Monkey’s grip let up only to tuck the tablet into his waistband to free up his hands. Tripitaka forced her feet forward, one plodding, squishing step at a time, leaning heavily on Monkey. She felt his hand wrap around hers, giving it a squeeze.

“Your hand’s freezing,” Monkey noted, massaging the back with his thumb. “Are you still cold?”

“Yeah…” Tripitaka mumbled, leaning into him and adjusting his jacket. She hadn’t really noticed it until now, especially as she drank in the warmth radiating from his closeness, but Monkey didn’t seem bothered in the slightest by the ambient temperature. That didn’t seem right. She could see him glancing down at her in the dim light.

“Okay, um… We’re just going to list off some Pokémon that have only one eye, okay?” Monkey asked. “There’s Duskull…”

“Magnemite,” Tripitaka replied, thinking hard, splitting her focus between her footsteps and the question at hand. “Dusclops.” She belatedly noticed she had slurred every syllable in that ghost-type’s name.

“Yeah, that’s right,” Monkey said. “And Dusknoir, too. Beldum’s another one. What else?”

“Roggenrola,” she said after a lengthy pause. More steps. “Rolycoly.”

“They’re both cute,” Monkey agreed. “I actually kind of forgot about Rolycoly for a bit there. What… what types are they?”

“Absol has only one eye,” Tripitaka realized. Absol’s face looking back at her as she left bloody paw prints in the snow was at the forefront of her mind. She smiled as the light at the end of the tunnel glowed brighter. It appeared to be evening, the sun getting ready to set. “She’s… she’s not angry with me about it.”

“What are you talking about?” Monkey asked, his arm tightening around her side. “Absol have two eyes. Tripitaka?”

His urgent tone was sharp in her ears, startling her back awake. “I just need to sit down for a minute…” she mumbled. She pulled her sweaty hand out of his grip and wiped it on her robes, missing his warmth. His hand found hers again after a moment of fumbling.

“It’s just a bit further. You can take a break when we’re out, okay?” When she didn’t reply he gave her a little shake. “Okay?”

“Bossy…” she muttered. The next few steps were agonizingly slow, her head drooping lower and lower with each one. As soon as the mouth of the tunnel was only a few steps away, her legs finally gave up and buckled, sending her down hard to the ground. “Okay, we’re done…”

“Hey, whoa-!” Monkey exclaimed as he kept her propped upright, leaning her against the wall. He straightened her legs out so they weren’t folded so uncomfortably beneath her. “Fine, we are ‘technically’ out of the cave so we can- oh… fuck…”

“What?” Tripitaka managed to rasp out, forcing her sleepy eyes open to look at Monkey’s ashen expression. “Oh.”

Her left shoe was completely soaked in blood. She glanced back inside the cave and saw one set of scarlet footprints.

Monkey yanked up her pant leg, following a smeared trail of blood from a cut on her leg that she vaguely remembered receiving during the fight at the lab with the exploding glass and rocks and debris flying around. Why was it bleeding so much…?

“The Poison Powder,” Monkey realized, fumbling with his pocket and hurling Infernape’s Pokéball.

The bright light seared her eyes as Infernape emerged with a strained hiss, holding his arm.

“No, keep him recalled,” Tripitaka mumbled. “He’s hurt…”

He ignored her. “Flamethrower outside, now,” Monkey ordered, rolling the soaked fabric of her pant leg back down and pressing it against her ankle, hands slipping on the blood ceaselessly trickling down. Stars burst in her vision as the searing pain swept away the fog in her head to bring the world, for a split second, into sharp focus. “Do it until someone finds us. Burn down the entire fucking sky if you have to!”

Darkness lurked in the corners of Tripitaka’s vision, and a hand roughly patted it away.

“No, no sleeping. You stay awake, okay?” Monkey demanded. “You’re fine. It’s going to be fine.”

His frantic voice was entirely too loud and the creeping darkness enclosing her eyes was so quiet. Why did he sound so scared? “J’st… give me a few minutes…”

The rough jerk on her shoulder wasn’t enough this time to entirely clear the fog as she heard Monkey yelling for help and Infernape let out a screech that sounded fuzzy in her ears, as if Altaria had enveloped Tripitaka’s head in her fluffy wings.

An eternity or a second later and a large presence blocked the light at the cave’s entrance. Tripitaka managed to lift her head to see an enormous and blurry Noctowl touching down on the ground. It took one look at her, and then Monkey, before letting out a tremendous scream that sounded more like a roar, a shockwave of overwhelming might pressing her to the cave wall and sending Monkey staggering back, its gleaming orange eyes for a brief second turning into red hellfire. The owl’s wings lashed out, and Monkey fell harshly on his back, clutching his arm, face contorted in pain and terror. He sat up and looked to her, his mouth yelling silent words, and it was all she could do but to meet his gaze, head lolling to the side. She wanted to ask him what was happening, tell him to calm down, reassure him that they’d figure this out together, but her scattered thoughts were all drifting through her mind like falling ash and she couldn’t gather enough of them to form the words.

Claws abruptly seized her shoulder and pulled. The earth fled from underneath her as the surrounding cave vanished into the open air. The world fell nauseatingly far away, and with another jolt, her other arm suddenly yanked up into an impossibly powerful vice. Every silent beat of the bird’s giant wings sent painful throbs through her arms that ricocheted through her body and out the tiny pulsing nick on her leg. With her numbing legs dangling in the howling wind and head hanging low, Tripitaka finally gave up, permitting the ever encroaching darkness to mercifully and completely overtake her.

I know I’ve given up
A hundred times before
But I know a miracle
Is not something to ignore

I never knew anybody ‘til I knew you
And I know when it rains, oh it pours
And I know I was born to be yours

Chapter Text

The first sense to return to her was her hearing. Voices mumbled around her, some tinged with concern and panic, some calm and unfamiliar, but always flickering in and out. Tripitaka wished that they would keep talking; this miasma of nothingness was difficult to navigate.

The next thing she could distinguish was warmth, a warmth she didn’t know she was missing. How long had she been cold? But the cocoon which now embraced her was soft, tenderly erasing any memory of the chill that had shaken her so terribly. Something solid stroked the crown of her head, and another sensation, one of softness, pressed and lingered against her forehead before withdrawing, an afterimage of care left behind.

“It’s all they’ll let me give for now,” a voice murmured next to her. “But you could have it all if you asked. In the meantime, you’ll just have to settle for me being next to you.”

Just when the silence was reaching for her, the voice hummed.

“Hope you don’t mind, but I’m not going anywhere. I personally would be thrilled to know I was always going to be around me, but I’m biased. So, as my captive audience, did I ever tell you about how I completely kicked some weirdo cult leader’s dick in while basically the god of antimatter oversaw the battle in the Distortion World? Good times. Cannot remember for the life of me what his name was… you wouldn’t like him.”

Tripitaka didn’t know whether to sigh, laugh, or roll her eyes, but willingly allowed herself to be guided out of the darkness by the persistent comfort of the disembodied voice until the world inverted and she went into a free fall.

---

Tripitaka startled awake with a sharp gasp. The roaring in her ears cut out into silence, broken only by the sound of a Taillow chirping outside. She was lying on a small mattress wrapped in blankets, an IV drip hanging nearby on one of the wooden support beams. Afternoon sunlight peered through a window, pooling on the wood floor and illuminating the fur of a faintly snoring Delcatty doing its very best impression of a dead cockroach.

Footsteps, and then Monkey trotted into the small room, busily tearing a package open with his teeth, one arm in a sling. He glanced at her, and his eyes lit up, carelessly tossing the bag aside. The Delcatty’s entire body jerked when it bounced off of its stomach but didn’t wake up. Monkey closed the distance to Tripitaka’s bed in a few eager strides, abruptly yanking her into a clumsy one-armed hug. Tripitaka let out a squeak at the sudden movement, and Monkey remembered himself and muttered a fast apology, stepping back and searching her face.

“Did I hurt you?” he demanded frantically, hand hovering nearby. Tripitaka shook her head and cautiously sat up, taking stock of how she felt, paranoid about injuries that might not even exist. Monkey fretted around her, rearranging her pillows and making sure the tubing attached to her arm wasn’t tangled, before muttering ‘oh yeah’ to himself and thrust a cup at her, the water sloshing dangerously close to the rim. A few downy feathers fluttered to the floor from the shuffling blankets.

“I go and raid the vending machine for five seconds and now you wake up…” he groused, mostly to himself, watching her take a long draught of water. He sat in a chair that had been placed right next to her. “Should’ve been there when you woke up; I would’ve been freaking out.”

“Waking up in a strange place is an old hat for me by now,” Tripitaka replied, having determined that despite feeling like she’d been run over by a bulldozer, she was relatively okay. Monkey’s brow furrowed with a cocktail of expressions, some of hurt, some of sadness, all while appearing jittery, like his bones had been replaced with static.

Tripitaka heard footsteps from the hallway. Light in pace, but heavy like the person was wearing boots. A red-haired woman rounded the corner, a Kecleon crawling on the ceiling behind her, inquisitively studying them. The woman was dressed in the standard Pokémon Ranger garb, her heavy boots flecked in mud, with a stern but kind expression on her face. The Delcatty snapped awake at the Ranger’s entrance, stretching with a luxurious yawn. 

"Good to see you're awake, Tripitaka," the woman greeted. "I'm Gwen, this is my partner Kecleon, and you've already met Vivian the office manager. I'm the head of this station." 

Kecleon scuttled over to the window and with a lash of its long tongue unlatched it. A shadow darkened the window much to Vivian's disgruntlement, and the head of a large dinosaur slowly entered, its long neck reaching around to rest above Tripitaka's bed. Monkey eyed it, shifting forward in case the creature got too close for his liking.

"And that's Tropius, my other partner," Gwen added. 

Tropius' expression was gentle, and it gave a long and sloppy kiss to Tripitaka's head with a giant tongue. The fruit under its chin rustled. "Please, take one," it rumbled. 

"She wants you to-" Gwen started, but Tripitaka was already taking a banana, gently twisting it off and murmuring a thanks. She'd never seen one up close, but Tropius was proving her species’ reputation as gentle giants. Gwen smiled. “You need to get your strength back from your ordeal... We were quite worried about you. I’m sure you have a lot of questions.”

“Questions, yes… and comments, and some concerns, if you don’t mind,” Tripitaka said with a shrug. Gwen pulled a chair over near the foot of the bed and sat, gesturing for Tripitaka to go ahead.

“Where are we, where is everyone, what happened, and how long was I out?” she recited, counting off on her fingers the most pressing questions.

Monkey straightened. “Well for starters, you’re safe, okay? I promise,” Monkey said seriously, watching her eat. “Cipher isn’t going to hurt you again.”

Tripitaka waved him off. “Yes, yes, I knew that already; you’re here,” she said impatiently, looking at Gwen expectantly. Monkey blinked several times, the tiniest of smiles tugging at his lips. Gwen looked at her lap, failing to hide a smile before she cleared her throat.

“You’re at a Pokémon Ranger station not too far from the mountain near Lavaridge Town, and you’ve been here for several hours. Your Noctowl practically broke the door down and almost shattered everyone’s eardrums from all his screeching,” Gwen added, shaking her head. “Tropius had to threaten to sit on him to keep him out of the way while we took care of you.”

“And I wasn’t too far behind on Altaria,” Monkey added. His tense look softened when Tropius tilted her head to offer him a banana. He gave her a pat on the neck and sat back, still fidgety.

“Where is Rén now? And the rest of my team, for that matter?” Tripitaka asked. It slowly dawned on her that she had woken up without expecting any of her Pokémon to be there. The thought of being so accustomed to that isolation nauseated her, accompanied by a swirling guilt that turned her stomach entirely into lead.

Monkey laced his fingers with hers, ducking his head to catch her eye. “Hey. You’re okay,” he murmured lowly, giving her palm a squeeze. “They’re here too. Well, Echo and Sage are. Rén’s out doing what he does, but I’m sure he’ll be back soon. Mienfoo is with Sandy and Pigsy.”

Right. Mienfoo. Tripitaka added that to her list of things to address when things weren’t so chaotic. She felt around in her mind, noting the familiar presence of Echo, although he was currently remaining silent. Maybe he was waiting to see her in person. 

“And I have reports from my rangers that your two friends are assisting other authorities with mopping up the leftover Cipher trash,” Gwen said. She slowly shook her head. “I’ve never heard of a strike team of just three people demolishing an entire criminal operation. Granted, most of them got away, but it certainly will make them go quiet for a while to lick their wounds.”

“Four people,” Monkey corrected. “Once Tripitaka joined in on the fun with Tyranitar, that is.”

“Five,” Tripitaka said, frowning at a puzzled Monkey. “All of this was possible thanks to Silver.” Monkey bristled at the mention of his name, but after thinking it over, relented with a nod.

“I didn’t know there was a fifth person,” Gwen said, hand drifting to the radio on her shoulder. “Do I need to have my people look for him?”

Tripitaka shook her head. “He’s fine. Knowing him, he doesn’t want to be found.” She looked between Monkey and Gwen. “So… what happened?”

Monkey pursed his lips. "How far back did you want me to start? I mean…” He shifted in his seat, pondering. “I guess it all started when your damn bird interrupted a very tender moment and ended with you gone and him bleeding out on the ground, and then all of that culminated in you bleeding out on the ground and him taking you away-"

Tripitaka waved him off. "After the cave. What happened?"

He shrugged, his face the picture of calm, but his leg was bouncing fast enough to rattle the entire mattress. Tripitaka silently laid a firm hand on his knee to make him stop. "There’s not much to say, really.”

“I’m inclined to strongly disagree,” Gwen interjected tartly, shooting him a look before returning to Tripitaka. “The Poison Powder acted as an anticoagulant when it came into contact with an open wound, small as it was, and added up during the time it went untreated. Vivian used Heal Bell to neutralize the poison in your system,” she said, nodding at the Delcatty, who was now snoozing again, “And we got you stabilized after you went into shock.”

Tripitaka found herself unable to look at anyone with the revelation of how serious it had been. “I’m sorry,” she said quietly, unsure of what else to say.

“Don’t be,” Gwen said, tone softening. “None of this is your fault. We’re just glad you got help in time.” She paused, watching Monkey study their joined hands. “This place that you were… working in-”

“Imprisoned,” Monkey interrupted without looking up.

“Imprisoned,” Gwen went on, choosing her words carefully. “They didn’t take good care of you, did they?”

“I mean, it’s not like they were beating or starving me,” Tripitaka answered with a nervous smile.

Gwen didn’t smile. “Your lab work showed signs of high stress and malnutrition.”

“You felt too light in the cave,” Monkey added in a mutter, his grip tightening.

“Not to mention the shadows under your eyes tell me you haven’t been sleeping well,” Gwen said. “Monkey told me what he knew, but I’d like to hear it from you in case we missed anything.” She hesitated, eyes flicking to Monkey for a split second. “I can speak with you alone, if you wish…” but Tripitaka was already shaking her head, pulling Monkey back down when he’d started to reluctantly rise.

“I’d… rather he stay,” she rushed out, not wanting to verbalize how uncomfortable the thought of being separated from him again was, even if it was just in the other room for a few minutes. After a breath and an encouraging stroke of his thumb to the back of her hand, she told Gwen about her false internship and how everything in it was designed to break her down, mind, body, and spirit. Gwen attentively listened with no judgment, just occasionally nodding and asking follow-up questions every so often. Monkey was uncharacteristically silent the entire time, but his jaw was clenched and his shoulders were trembling.

When she’d finished, Gwen stood, fiddling with the IV bag before taking Tripitaka’s other hand. “You’re incredibly brave and resilient, Tripitaka. And I’m relieved you have such wonderful friends surrounding you.” She went to the door, waving Kecleon over. “I’m going to make a few calls… paramedic training didn’t exactly cover chronic psychic stress from being hypnotized every night. You two sit tight,” she said over her shoulder as she left the room. Tropius withdrew her head from the window, leaving Monkey and Tripitaka alone with the fast asleep office manager in her reclaimed sun puddle.

Monkey took a deep breath, trying to relax. He caught Tripitaka watching him, and he swallowed. “Hearing all that… was hard.”

“Living it was harder,” Tripitaka said mildly.

He snorted, shaking his head. “Yeah. Yeah it was. I’m sorry, you don’t need me to be angry on your behalf. That’s not what you need right now.”

“And what do you think I need?” she asked, raising an eyebrow.

His mouth worked and his brow furrowed, deep in thought as he fully considered every aspect of the question. Tripitaka watched him puzzle it over, shaking her head with a terrible fondness of this beautiful soul sitting next to her.

“I came up with a lot of options,” Monkey finally concluded, “But it might be best if you just told me.” He watched her response, and then the lightbulb flicked on over his head. “Ah.”

“Right now, I need to share your snacks,” Tripitaka chuckled. “And you can answer a few more things.”

He mock pouted, but was already relinquishing her hand to lay his vending machine haul in her lap. “Fire away.”

“What happened to your arm?” she asked, gesturing to him with her elbow as she tore the package open.

He snorted. “Which one?” he asked, gesturing to both of them.

“Start with the sling; that seems a bit more serious,” Tripitaka said dryly.

“Well, the sling is because Rén broke my damn arm, the little shit,” Monkey grumped with no real ire behind it.

“Looks like he made you match Infernape,” Tripitaka commented, heartened that he didn’t seem angry at the owl or his situation in general.

“Yeah, well, while Infernape’s arm is only going to take a couple of days to heal, I’m going to take three weeks, and that’s with Comfey working overtime,” Monkey complained. A lopsided grin returned to his face. “Luckily, it’s not the arm I use to jer-”

“I am so. Happy for you,” Tripitaka cut him off with a groan, feeling her cheeks heat up behind her fingers. When Monkey’s cackles subsided, she nodded to his other arm, currently sporting some gauze taped around the bend of his elbow. “And the other?”

“Oh, this?” Monkey asked, glancing at it as if he’d seen it for the first time. He wet his lips, shrugging, looking up at the suddenly very interesting IV bag. “You needed blood and I was a match.”

Tripitaka blinked. He’d donated blood for her? “Oh. Wow. Um… Thank y-”

“I’m totally inside of you right now,” he interjected, eyes gleaming with mischief.

“Stop…” Tripitaka groaned. By now she was quite used to waving goodbye to potential tender moments like this because of Monkey being who he was. She supposed it was a good sign he was joking around and acting playful, but it did seem a bit over the top, even for Monkey.

Monkey paused. "Luckily Rén now knows his own strength, so when he dragged you away in the cave he didn't break your arm like before. Unlike for me..." he added grumpily. 

"He didn’t break my arm. He dislocated my shoulder," Tripitaka corrected. She considered for a second. "Although... I may have been out of it, but did Rén seem… strange? Back in the cave?" 

"You mean that weird burst of power? Yeah, I've been trying to figure that out myself," Monkey admitted. "I've never seen anything like it. I don't think it was an actual move, you know?" 

"I can ask him later," Tripitaka said. Yet another thing to add to the ever-growing mysteries of Pokémon, although with her career choice, it was to be expected. She sagged, and Monkey glanced at her with a darting look filled to the brim with concern. She shook her head. "Internship," she sighed. 

She expected he’d tease her more, but Monkey's gaze instead softened. "Well, you've been gone for a few weeks... There's... Still time..." he hedged, although Tripitaka shook her head. Logically of course, her failure to get to the internship was small potatoes compared to what she had gone through and she should be happy to just be alive, but her eyes still stung with tears. As Infernape had said, the journey was of course worth it, but her heart hadn’t caught up with her head. 

Monkey took a breath. "I did keep sending the Professor your daily update emails." He met her eyes. "He knows what happened. He... never replied to any of them, but..." 

"He never replied to mine either," Tripitaka sighed. 

"But I think you should still finish the journey," Monkey continued seriously. "I don't think you'd ever forgive yourself if you just quit, missed deadline be damned."

She mulled his words over, slowly nodding. Monkey brightened. 

"You should look that professor dead in the eyeballs and show him exactly what he missed out on. Or maybe… Maybe he'll be so impressed he gives you the head research position, you never know!" His cheerful optimism made her smile, as it always did, but the reminder of Shadow Pokémon raised another question. 

"What happened with Tyranitar?" Tripitaka asked, rubbing her head. “Where is he? Is he okay?”

Monkey blinked, but directed her gaze at her Pokéballs on the nearby desk. "Right where you left him." 

Tripitaka frowned. "He's your Pokémon. Shouldn't he be with you?" 

Shame darkened his eyes. "For now… I think he's better off in your care. I figured it would be best if you took the lead with him for now. I... I don't have any claim over him," he finished in a mumble. 

Tripitaka decided they would unpack that guilt of his later and create a treatment plan for the Pokémon, but for now, all that would have to wait. She took in his expression, just now seeing that he looked about as tired as she felt, but he was still on edge, almost nervous.

He shook his head. “You know, you really scared the shit out of me, nerd. Unnecessary roughness,” he scolded, his voice the equivalent of a strangled smile.

She tucked a stray hair behind his ear. “You don’t have to pretend you’re fine and brush it off for my benefit, Monkey. I can tell you have more on your mind.”

He blustered for a moment, brushing off her words, but when her searching gaze remained steady, his posture instantly deflated and his brow creased. He swallowed hard.

“I…” He cleared his throat, fidgeting. “I’ve seen a lot on my journey. I’ve… battled with dangerous people and taken down criminal organizations, I’ve stared down rampaging legendary Pokémon… Even when I went into the forest and saw you were taken.” His eyes dragged upwards to meet hers. “I could deal with all that; I could beat them or fight to get you back. I could do something. But back there in the cave… you were slipping away and…” He choked. “I’ve never been so afraid,” he confessed in a whisper.

Tripitaka let the silence grow, searching for the perfect quip to reassure him, but nothing came to mind. “I’m sorry Monkey,” she instead said, laying a hand on his cheek. “I’m so sorry for scaring you.”

Monkey leaned into her touch with his eyes closed before reaching up, pulling her hand away just enough to press a kiss into her palm. “This is so stupid…” he grumbled, lowering their joined hands. “I should be comforting you and yet, here I am…”

Tripitaka rolled her eyes. “After all I’ve put you through, I think you’re more than entitled to be a bit selfish now and then. It’s the least I can do to say thank you. Which, if I haven’t mentioned it, thank you for coming for me and getting me out of there. I know you guys made it look easy, but…”

“No, no, keep praising my efforts,” Monkey chuckled, his expression sobering too fast. His eyes flicked up to hers. “Can I be even greedier and ask you to never scare me like that again?”

Tripitaka wanted to retort that it’s not like she wanted all this to happen, but stopped herself at his wrecked expression. She nodded. “Yes.”

He leaned forward, and after a moment of hesitation, pressed his lips to her forehead before touching his own to it. “I don’t know how to be myself if you aren’t with me.”

His words were quiet enough that Tripitaka wasn’t sure if she was meant to hear them. She reached up and combed her fingers through his hair, feeling him melt under her touch. “So what now?” she asked.

He shrugged, head drooping. “Whatever you want,” he mumbled, eyes closing at her ministrations. “I’m open to the concept of dinner and a nap, though.”

Tripitaka chuckled, gently scratching his scalp. “I meant for you.”

He hummed. “Taking you to your internship. Obviously.”

“But after all that,” Tripitaka replied. “I don’t even know if the internship is still going to be there.”

Monkey’s eyes opened. “I guess… chase after Cipher and try and find my other Pokémon,” Monkey said, a sigh leaving his lips.

Tripitaka’s heart lurched. She’d been so caught up in their victory and reclaiming Tyranitar that she’d forgotten that Monkey was still missing the rest of his team. They still had so much work to do, which although rescuing his Pokémon was possible, Tyranitar was proof of that, it was a huge undertaking. “What if… what if we found all of your Pokémon and they were all better? What would you do after that?” she offered.

“Honestly you probably need a vacation,” Monkey muttered. Tripitaka was surprised he didn’t say run out and reclaim his title right away. “We can always come back to Lavaridge… their hot springs are great. Hell, we can have Pigsy take us on a tour of Alola, too.”

“Vacations can’t last forever,” Tripitaka chided. “After all that?”

Monkey’s nose wrinkled. “That’s a bit too far in the future to make plans for my taste.” He glanced up at her. “Would you want to travel more?”

Tripitaka shook her head. “I think this journey has been enough for me. I’m probably going to go home. Maybe take some time and then look for another internship or online work.”

“Fair enough,” he said. He tilted his head. “Maybe I’d get a nice apartment for a year or so and take a break from it all.”

“And where would that be?” she asked.

He considered, propping his chin on his fist. “Definitely Johto. Maybe Violet City?” he asked, looking up at her. “I’ve been curious about the upper floors of the Sprout Tower. I’ve been told about incredible Bellsprout fighters up there that don’t get knocked out in a single Flare Blitz from Infernape. Plus there’s a certain monk there that I’d want to see.”

“Troy would love that,” Tripitaka said with a smile.

“Yeah, I’d see him too,” Monkey said, gazing at her. Tripitaka blinked at his expression, questions bubbling up her throat. He continued, “I’d also ask that monk if she wanted to live with me.” He shrugged, abruptly sitting up and stretching. “But again, that’s a bit too hypothetical for little ol’ me. I don’t know if Infernape would be ready to take a hiatus, anyway.”

“I would,” Infernape’s voice called around the corner. “Bring on the domestic life.”

“What have I said about not listening in on conversations, Infernape?!” Monkey yelled, lunging to his feet.

“I’m so scared,” came the dry reply. “What are you going to do, flap your sling at me?”

“You know I can do a lot more than that! You better run, bitch!” Monkey hollered. He stopped at the door and glanced back at Tripitaka. “Please excuse me while I take care of this,” he said politely. After Tripitaka nodded to him, he tore after his partner with a yell about farting in his ear or something.

Tripitaka snorted. Hopefully this would get his sillies out. It also mercifully gave her some time to think. Would Monkey, who was always on the move with a constant need for action, really be willing to settle down for that long? She wasn’t sure if her desire for a mundane life filled with peace and quiet would be well-matched with Monkey’s endless energy levels. Sure, the two of them meshed well while they were on a journey, but she had doubts about how well they’d cohabitate anywhere, if he really meant what he said.

She shook her head. This was all too far in the future, anyway.

Another shadow darkened the window and Rén silently landed on the floor, turning to look at her. Now that she could look at him properly, his new size as a Noctowl almost took Tripitaka’s breath away, and she wondered how he’d flown so perfectly through the window at all. The room now seemed entirely too small with him standing there.

“I’m glad you’re here, Rén,” she finally said. “You look great.”

His tufts flattened a bit, one eye blinking at her, head tilted.

“You’re looking better,” he observed.

Tripitaka twiddled her thumbs, not really knowing what to say. Occasionally Monkey and Infernape’s muffled shouts broke the silence. “I know you didn’t want to evolve-”

“Whatever,” Rén huffed, picking between his toes. Tripitaka almost smiled. He may have evolved, but he seemed to have retained every bit of his prickly personality, which was almost a relief. Maybe it was because he had waited so long…

“Can I ask why you were so reluctant to?” Tripitaka asked. When his movements stilled, she waved her hand. “You don’t have to answer if you don’t want…”

“If I evolved, I wouldn’t be able to perch on Troy’s arm anymore,” he admitted, slowly lowering his foot and facing her fully. Tripitaka had never seen him so openly vulnerable before. He briskly shook his tail feathers. “Not that it matters anymore.”

Tripitaka felt it was best to not comment any further, instead leaning closer to the owl, studying him. The feathers on his breast were suspiciously thinned out, patchy enough for her to be able to see his thick scar. She absent-mindedly stretched her fingers out, Rén tilting his head down to observe her approaching hand, but she withdrew before she got too close.

“It’s fine,” came the gruff hoot. “Doesn’t even hurt. You’d better not get that stupid worried look.”

She shook her head. “I was more wondering why your feathers are so thinned out.”

His head bobbed. “You were cold and wouldn’t stop shaking.”

Tripitaka’s brow furrowed, and she lifted her blankets to see a cloud of downy feathers completely surrounding her, rustling with the new breeze. A few loose feathers escaped from the cloud to drift to the floor, and Rén immediately plucked them up and stuffed them back under the blankets. Tripitaka froze as his giant head entered her space, not daring to even breathe until he was satisfied enough to step back.

That… explained why she felt so warm.  

“These people obviously don’t know how to line a nest properly,” Rén griped.

“He was meticulous about it too,” Infernape added, casually climbing through the window despite his broken arm, stepping carefully over Vivian. Rén swiveled his head to glare at him. “Rén forced Monkey to fully leave the room until he was done.”

Tripitaka decided to change the subject before Rén got defensive. “Is Monkey still mad at you?” she asked instead.

Infernape shrugged. “Not as mad as the time we lost out on a brand sponsorship because my Focus Blast missed four times in a row.”

“You’d think for a move with the word ‘focus’ in the name it would land more often,” Tripitaka mused. “What happened?”

“I mean, I got the ‘blast’ part of the move handled…” Infernape muttered. “But yeah, there was this one Unovan energy drink company with Focus Blast as the main part of their marketing. They wanted us to showcase it in a tournament battle.” His mouth quirked. “I didn’t miss so much as my opponent kept dodging, let’s get that right.”

“Suuure,” Rén drawled under his breath, fluffing up all his feathers and shaking himself.

“And he got mad at you?” Tripitaka said with a frown. Monkey was a battling fanatic, but he didn’t seem the type to take it out on his partner.

“Nope. He basically told the representatives to take themselves back to, and I quote, ‘the land of the free this dick and the home of the go fuck yourself’ and to pick a better move to build a brand around.” Infernape’s expression grew thoughtful. “Actually now that I think about it, that’s probably the main reason why the sponsorship fell through. He was mad enough that he took me to a specialist and paid them to make me forget everything about the move, even learning it, and then did the same for himself.”

Okay, that did sound like Monkey. “But I’ve seen you use Focus Blast,” Tripitaka realized.

Infernape scratched behind his ear, looking sheepish. “Well… a while later we entered another tournament, and our next opponent had a lot of flying or levitating Pokémon and we needed a coverage move with a longer range than Flamethrower...”

Tripitaka stifled a snort. “So he taught it to you again?”

“He shelled out a lot of money to get the TM to re-teach it to me, yeah,” Infernape snickered. “When I tried the move out, we just gave each other a look because all the memories came flooding back. It was not one of our finest moments; it was so stupid.”

“Sounds about right,” Rén sniffed, squeezing himself through the window and disappearing, clearly bored of the conversation.

“What brand was this again?” Tripitaka asked, reaching for her phone. Monkey trotted through the door, face tinged red and his hair mussed from chasing Infernape.

“Brand?” he asked, puzzled. His expression darkened and he leveled an accusatory glance at Infernape. “Was this about the Focus Blast fuckers?” At Infernape’s shameless shrug, Monkey rolled his eyes. “You won’t find them. They went bankrupt a while back. Turns out basing your entire brand around a move that’s unreliable at best was a forecast for their business model.”

Tripitaka chuckled, and Gwen returned not too long after, releasing Tripitaka from her IV line and taping a bandage over it.

“Alright, given your lack of symptoms for psychic damage, you should be okay, but they want you to get a brain scan sooner rather than later just to make sure you’re fully cleared,” Gwen informed her.

“She has a Kadabra that can do that,” Monkey pointed out.

Gwen raised an eyebrow. “I highly doubt that this Kadabra is fully trained in diagnosing and treating psychic injuries,” she deadpanned. Monkey frowned, opening his mouth to reply.

“I’ll definitely get an appointment at our next stop, thank you,” Tripitaka interrupted, silently telling Monkey to leave it alone. His automatic defense of Echo’s abilities was endearing, even if it wasn’t entirely appropriate for the situation. “Do you think I can leave tomorrow?” Tripitaka put on her most pleading face, mostly for the sake of not wanting to impose on the Ranger’s hospitality, but also wanting to get back to what was safe and familiar: traveling with her friends.

Gwen hesitated, but nodded at Tripitaka’s expression. “I want to give you a final once-over before you jet off to parts unknown, Tripitaka. You went through a lot and need to take it easy for a while.”

“I’ll make sure she doesn’t overdo it,” Monkey promised. “She’s a sly one but I’m wise to her tricks by now.”

“‘Wise’ is not the word I would use,” Infernape cackled.

Gwen shifted, schooling her face to not smile at their banter. “I’ve got a few more things to take care of, but make yourselves at home. I’ve been told your friends are almost here. And before you ask, yes, of course they can stay the night as well.”

“I’d like to go see my Pokémon, if that’s alright?” Tripitaka piped up before Gwen could leave.

“I’ll take you,” Monkey blurted out, offering his arm to her with a flourish. “I know the way.”

With a grateful nod, Gwen departed, and the two of them worked together to extract Tripitaka from Rén’s nest without turning the room into a mess of downy feathers. Infernape graciously volunteered to keep the bed warm, lazily stretching out and resting his head on his good arm.

Her first steps were wobbly, but Monkey was a patient and dutiful escort as she stabilized herself. His steps were carefully measured to match Tripitaka’s plodding pace, his entire body a live wire of acutely focused energy locked on to her, even if he wasn’t directly watching her. The intensity was enough to make her skin heat up and heart race, although she couldn’t place whether his closeness or her self-consciousness was more responsible.

The worst part was that she didn’t know how she felt about it. He was being overbearing, suffocating even, but she wasn’t annoyed with him, even though she knew any rational person would be. But she wasn’t enjoying his nervous, hyper attentive energy either. She felt like every single part of her was being scrutinized. She felt like she had deluded herself into thinking she was healthier than she actually was, as if he knew something secret about her fragility that for some reason was being kept from her. It was starkly different from their normal dynamic, and she was utterly lost on how to navigate it.

There were too many unknowns with all of… this. Unknown factors and undiscovered data points normally excited her when it came to research, but in this case, the only thing she felt was afraid.

“Here we are!” Monkey said in a chipper voice upon reaching the door leading into the treatment room. When Tripitaka didn’t move, his eyes darted around her. “What’s wrong? Need to sit down?”

Tripitaka was already shaking her head. “I need to see them.”

Echo’s telepathic presence was already greeting her, beckoning her to come inside already and join him. A handful of wild Pokémon were resting on beds scattered around the room in various stages of health. The beds weren’t nearly as organized as a standard Pokémon Center layout, but the Ranger Station was just as prepared to offer help to anyone in need. The few Pokémon that were awake watched the two humans pass by before ignoring them. Echo was perched on a cot at the end, smiling when he made eye contact with Tripitaka.

“How are you feeling?” Tripitaka asked, Monkey tensing a bit when she dropped his arm and abandoned him, rushing over to sit beside the Kadabra. Echo shot a quick glance at the bed across from him containing a curled up lavender-colored Pokémon before returning his attention to her.

“Better now that you’re awake,” Echo answered, briefly touching his forehead to hers.

Monkey pulled over a chair but didn’t sit, instead just awkwardly hovering. He seemed to be waging an internal war trying to reconcile the polite expectations of granting Tripitaka and Echo the appropriate amount of space with his desire to stay firmly affixed to Tripitaka’s side, ultimately failing at both.

“Well, yes,” Tripitaka giggled as Echo held up his spoon and started scanning her, brow furrowed in concentration. “I meant that I saw you teleporting back there… Does that mean you’re fully recovered?”

Echo nodded, still working. “All that meditating paid off. I didn’t really learn that much while you were gone.”

“Learn anything?” Tripitaka pressed.

“Yeah, the others did a lot of training to prepare for your rescue,” Echo said, not breaking focus. “Monkey got us a bunch of TMs but I didn’t really practice mine much.”

“He was more engrossed with trying to find you,” Monkey chimed in. “But he can now use Energy Ball, Dazzling Gleam, and Light Screen, and I think with some extra training he can learn Thunder Wave-”

Everyone stopped when Tripitaka had a brief, involuntary shudder at the memory. It all seemed so long ago, buried beneath the hazy time with Cipher, but the mere mention of that move brought the squeezing grip on her lungs and helpless paralysis into sharp relief.

“You know what, we don’t have to use that move. Echo is more suited to be a lightning bruiser, anyway,” Monkey amended swiftly. He winced. “Sorry. Shouldn’t have said that either…”

Tripitaka waved him off. “You don’t need to walk around on eggshells around me, I’m fine-”

“-because Sandy and Pigsy said you might have PTSD from all of… this,” Monkey rambled with a vague gesture, “So we need to be careful, and I did a bunch of research while you were gone and while I was waiting…”

[Do you want me to knock him out?]

Echo’s suggestion made her smile. [Not yet.]

[Why were you so uneasy at the door?] He withdrew his spoon, finished with whatever he was examining in her brain.

[Find anything interesting in your scan?] Tripitaka asked instead.

[No… but my knowledge of psychic injuries is pitifully limited outside of what Presto taught me and my own personal experience.]

The two of them watched Monkey babble on about his research and how he was going to help her, holding up his phone to show her websites and articles he had bookmarked. [I’m impressed he was able to retain all this information.]

Echo snorted. [Pigsy and Sandy did the actual research legwork. But I’m more impressed at how much you’re dodging my original question,] he pointed out, giving her a knowing glance.

[Would it be too much to ask for you to read my mind and figure my feelings out for me? Because I don’t even think I know what was going on with that.]

[I have absolutely no desire to do your own emotional work.] He poked his spoon into her side while watching Monkey with feigned interest. [But I’m here to listen, if that’s what you want.]

Tripitaka chewed on the inside of her lip. [That’s the catch, isn’t it? I don’t know what I want.]

“You guys are totally not listening to me,” Monkey pouted. His accusatory finger waggled between them. “You had an entire conversation without me.”

“We didn’t want to break your flow?” Tripitaka tried.

“You weren’t listening to her first,” Echo snorted. “But yeah, you go ahead and tell her exactly what she needs.”

Tripitaka almost laughed. Echo sounded uncannily similar to Rén during his harsh reprimand about being overbearing and fretful after Echo’s injury. The two of them made quite a pair.

Monkey, looking thoroughly abashed, had tucked his lips into his mouth as if he was trying to prevent any more wayward words from escaping. He fidgeted, his unspoken apologies rattling around his body.

Tripitaka took pity on him after watching him squirm. “It’s fine, Monkey. Really. You can relax.”

“Just stop acting weird and treating her like she’s a second away from shattering,” Echo grumbled. “It’s freaking her out.”

“I-” Tripitaka’s response caught in her throat as Monkey’s expression turned alarmed before wincing yet again an instant later. “Where’s Sage?” she blurted out instead, desperate for a change in topic.

Echo’s thoughts were an instantaneous storm cloud of concern, unease, regret, and a bit of alarm, before he silenced it and looked to Monkey, who took a deep breath.

“What exactly do you remember before the cave?” he asked carefully. “Right before Altaria caught you?”

Tripitaka blinked. “Running… Kenya flew me out, she threw me off to save me, I was falling, and then… I… stopped…” Tripitaka’s voice trailed off. She hadn’t given any thought to that bizarre moment until just now. She looked up at Monkey, shaking her head, bewildered. “That must’ve been telekinesis. But what does that have to do with anything?”

Monkey sat on the bed across from them and lightly stroked the sleeping Pokémon’s back, the casual familiarity of the gesture with a foreign Pokémon completely baffling to Tripitaka. “Because Sage is the one that caught you.”

Tripitaka frowned. That simply wasn’t possible. Eevee weren’t capable of any sort of telekinesis.

Unless-

“Oh, Sage,” Tripitaka whispered, collapsing to her knees by the Espeon’s bed. Her hands trembled as she touched the fine violet hairs on her partner’s back. Her little Eevee, her first Pokémon, had gone and evolved and she hadn’t even been there to see it.

“This idiot here…” Monkey stopped himself, drawing closer, his free hand rubbing soothing circles along Tripitaka’s shoulder. “Little girl saw you f- falling,” his voice faltered. “She cried out for Echo to catch you, but when he didn’t show up, she took it upon herself.”

Tripitaka felt Echo’s pang of guilt, and she shook her head at him, putting a stop to that immediately. “How bad is it?” she asked, her chest squeezing when she saw some dried droplets of blood on the sheets below Sage’s nose.

“Just the psychic equivalent of pulling a muscle,” Echo reassured her. “Evolution gave her a raw burst in power, so it’s not as bad as it could’ve been. She just needs a while to sleep it off.”

“Echo’s little stunt was a lot worse,” Monkey informed Tripitaka, most likely with the intent to make her feel better. It didn’t. He noticed, clearing his throat and glancing at Echo. “But I think I, and Tripitaka included for that matter, would prefer it if the psychics on the team stop doing shit like this.”

Echo ignored him, prodding Tripitaka to look him in the eye. “I’ve been keeping her company,” he assured her. “She can’t wait to see you.”

Tripitaka pulled the Kadabra into a grateful, overwhelmed hug, who hesitated before nudging his forehead against hers to send comfort and reassurance into her mind. Monkey flopped down next to them and hugged them both as best he could with his one arm.

“We’re all okay. I promise,” Monkey murmured to her, punctuating it with a peck to her temple.

Tripitaka heard familiar footsteps, and looked up to see Sandy and Pigsy walking in the room and looking around.

“Tripitaka!” Sandy breathed, rushing over and crashing into them with a hug.

Pigsy’s bear hug surrounded them all next, groaning with relief and delight. Tripitaka felt a buzz of overwhelmed distaste at the excessive physical contact, and Echo teleported away from the crushing circle of hugs. The trainers collapsed against each other from the sudden empty space Echo had left, laughing as they bumped heads and squished limbs in a pile on the floor.

Several Pokémon made disgruntled sounds at the noise, and upon Tripitaka’s suggestion, Pigsy hauled everyone up and herded them outside, Monkey maintaining some sort of physical contact with Tripitaka the entire time. The Pokémon were all waiting, Comfey squealing when she laid eyes on them. The four trainers were quickly overrun with all of the enthusiastic greetings, each Pokémon not shy in either the volume or quantity of their exclamations of collective pride in the successful rescue mission. When the dust and clamor began to settle, Tripitaka noticed Mienfoo standing off to the side, happy but keeping her distance.

The next few hours were spent catching everyone up in their time apart. The Pokémon chimed in every so often with their contributions in the battle, and Mist spoke for Pigsy and Sandy to summarize the aftermath of the Cipher raid while Monkey and Tripitaka were away.

“I think Rén could have given Mamoswine a run for her money in terms of height now that he’s evolved,” Pigsy said with a smile after the sun had long since set and the stories had been told. Rén eventually joined the group, roosting on a wooden fence just outside of the ring of firelight as the ever watchful, silent guardian. “In Alola, there are larger than normal totem Pokémon that are trained to test island challengers, but none of them were anything like him.”

Rén preened his tail feathers and pretended like he wasn’t listening. The giant owl seemed to have attracted a bit of a fan club. Several bird Pokémon, mostly Hoothoot with some Natu and a few Swablu scattered through the spontaneous flock, were also roosting on the fence and gazing at Rén with awed expressions, completely dwarfed by the Noctowl. Tripitaka could tell he didn’t mind the little birds’ adoration as long as they minded their distance. Monkey was watching the Swablu with a deep expression, and it was only then Tripitaka noticed Altaria’s absence.  

“Guess all of your Pokémon have evolved now, Tripitaka,” Sandy remarked, interrupting her train of thought. Tripitaka couldn’t help but glance at Mienfoo for a split second, but the ferret was preoccupied with washing her face. “How do you feel about having an Espeon?”

Tripitaka’s mood withered. “I don’t know,” she confessed. “I know it’s still her, and I know she evolved to save me, but she’s so… I miss her,” she finally managed to force out.

Why couldn’t she just shut up and be grateful for such an act of love and devotion? Why couldn’t she stop focusing on the physical change and not be so unfairly unsettled by it? Why couldn’t she just get a grip? She was a terrible trainer, she thought as she buried her head in her hands.

Monkey coaxed her hands away from her face, stroking them with his thumbs. “Only you could be so miserable because your Pokémon evolved. Most people are over the moon.” His words were playful, but his expression was heavy with concern.

Pigsy shook his head. "Untrue. Being weirded out by your Pokémon’s evolution is more common than you think, especially for people not involved in the competitive scene.” He raised his eyes to Tripitaka’s. “You aren’t alone in feeling like this.”

“Sage of all people wouldn’t hold your feelings against you,” Monkey assured her after a brief lull, gently bumping his shoulder against hers. “She’ll understand and love you the same.”

“So stop feeling guilty about it,” Pigsy grumbled. “You’re overthinking everything again.”

“You’ve got that forlorn and tormented look,” Monkey whispered. “It’s not as subtle as you think it is.”

Tripitaka huffed and stood up. “That’s it, I’m going inside-”

“Nope!” Monkey exclaimed, dragging her back down. “Tonight you’re only allowed to brood under strict supervision.”

“I was scared of Edge when she first evolved,” Sandy spoke up quietly after the giggles subsided. Edge watched her, blades neatly tucked under her body, but she didn’t appear at all hurt by the statement. In fact, the Kabutops looked at her trainer with a detached understanding, perhaps even agreeing with her. “I couldn’t look at her for weeks, even though deep down I knew she wouldn't hurt me,” Sandy went on. “She was just so... different. Unexpectedly so.”

Tripitaka didn’t feel scared of Sage, but nevertheless appreciated Sandy’s empathy. “I wasn’t like this when Echo evolved,” Tripitaka noted.

Pigsy shrugged. “You hadn’t known each other for that long.”

“Or with Rén,” Tripitaka continued with a frown.

“But Tripitaka, you watched both of their evolutions happen,” Sandy pointed out. “Maybe not seeing Sage’s evolution is like an object permanence thing. Brains are strange.”

Monkey was wearing his pondering face. “Add on that you knew what to expect if Echo and Rén evolved. Abra into Kadabra. Hoothoot into Noctowl. I mean, Rén didn’t want to evolve of course, but it was an established fact in your head. You could mentally prepare. Sage? Not so much since Eevee have so many options.”

Tripitaka mulled it over. Maybe she wasn’t as horrible as she originally thought.

“Also Espeon look really weird,” Monkey added with a flippant shrug.

Tripitaka had to snort at Sandy’s horrified expression. “They do NOT! They’re beautiful!”

“They’re little purple aliens with huge eyes and ears and a forked tail. I think Tripitaka is entitled to an adjustment period after being used to a cute brown fluffy thing,” Monkey retorted. “I mean, don’t get me wrong, Espeon are fantastic in battle, but appearance-wise they do stick out compared to their other evolutionary cousins.”

“Nah, Jolteon are the outliers,” Pigsy argued. “Spiky weird porcupines.”

Sandy shook her head. “Sylveon are cute, but their feeler ribbons are so strange. They look too happy to be real, you know?”

“Hey, don't knock Sylveon until you’ve had one!” Monkey protested. “They hit like a truck!”

The following debate and banter carried on long into the night until Tripitaka blearily opened her eyes to Monkey setting her down in the bed and pulling the blanket over her, more of Rén’s feathers drifting to the floor. He turned to go, but at the moment, the mere concept of his absence felt incorrect, even for something as brief as a night. Her hand shot out and grabbed his wrist to tug at him, making him jump.

In her mind, she was certain she said something genteel and intelligible such as “Please stay here with me” and “I don’t know what’s going on with me but I want you nearby”, but all that came out was a grouchy and muddled bubble of sound, but Monkey seemed to grasp what she was going for. She shuffled over as best she could to make room for him, and he happily pulled her close, nuzzling his cheek into wherever he could reach.

She smiled, tucking her hands under her cheek, enjoying the warmth of his body against her back. For once, Monkey’s entire body was uncharacteristically still, but it wasn’t rigid or trembling like when he forced himself to be calm. It was more like he was finally allowing himself to be at peace and relax, his steadfast dedication to staying by her side sated at last.

Even though they had never slept this close to each other before, always in their own sleeping bags across the campfire or in a different room at their chosen lodging for the night, it was completely natural to be wrapped in his arms, as if they’d been doing this for years. His scent engulfing her and his weight against her and his presence surrounding her was nothing more than an ordinary, mundane comfort. For the first time today, she felt a return to normalcy between them.

“I don’t know if I’ve told you, but I missed you so, so much,” she whispered into the darkness. “Even when I didn’t remember exactly what I was missing, I missed you.”

He let out a contented sigh. “It didn’t need to be said, but you can say it as often as you’d like.” He readjusted himself until he was satisfied with his snuggle. “Sorry for freaking you out earlier. I never meant to make you feel fragile. You’re the strongest person I know.”

“I know you meant well,” Tripitaka yawned. “You always do. It was just… different than what I’m used to from you.”

“Different in a good way, or a bad way?” he ventured.

“I’m not awake enough for this conversation. Ask me tomorrow.”

Monkey was silent for a while, until he leaned over to whisper in her ear. “So is this a one-off thing or can I cuddle with you every night?”

“If you don’t let me sleep in the next five seconds, I’m telling Echo to drop you off in the woods,” Tripitaka answered without opening her eyes.

Monkey’s chuckle sent a tremor through the bed and he pointedly tangled his limbs with hers. “He couldn’t possibly tear me away from you, nerd.”

---

Thankfully, Echo’s intervention hadn’t been required. Monkey was still happily curled up next to her when she awoke the next morning to the sight of Rén’s orange eyes blinking at her at the foot of the bed, clearly waiting for something. It took some effort to extricate herself from Monkey’s grabby limbs without waking him, but as soon as his arm noticed it was squeezing around the empty spot she had left, he sat up.

“I take it you want to call Troy?” Tripitaka asked the owl, keeping her voice down in case the others were still asleep.

Rén nodded, and the pair walked side by side to the phone booth.

“You did quite a number on Monkey’s arm. You broke it?” Tripitaka asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I thought that he’d hurt you.” When Tripitaka didn’t follow up, his wings rustled and he huffed. “I’m not apologizing.”

Tripitaka shook her head. “I wasn’t going to ask you to.”

Rén’s ear tufts rose and fell. “Troy would.”

Tripitaka nodded as they stood before the booth, neither moving to start the call. “He would. But I think we’ve long proven by now that I’m not Troy.”

“You are not.”

“I thought you’d be asking to talk with him last night,” Tripitaka remarked. “Sorry, with everything that happened-”

“I’ve waited this long,” he hooted. “What’s one more day?”

She glanced up at Rén. “You haven’t spoken to him since the last time we…?”

Rén shook his head. “I couldn’t bear to face him, not after I failed. Not until you were back.”

“But you didn’t do anything wrong,” Tripitaka argued. “You did everything you possibly could, more than anyone could have ever asked!”

“It wasn’t enough,” Rén argued. “He told me to look after you.”

“And he said the same to me about you,” Tripitaka retorted with a roll of her eyes. “Rén, there’s nothing you could do that would make Troy disappointed in you. He’s just going to be relieved we’re back together.” She smiled. “He’s going to be even happier that we can get along.”

Rén was silent, beak quietly grinding. “I used to be afraid he didn’t want his partner by his side as much as he wanted his child to be safe. I was so hurt and angry and jealous of the thought that he loved you more. But now I see there was enough room for both of us in the nest.” He snorted, re-adjusting his wings. “I guess evolving gave me some perspective.”

Tripitaka shrugged. “Maybe so. But I think you would’ve arrived at the same conclusion even if you’d stayed a Hoothoot.” Rén’s head twitched with a nod as Tripitaka dialed the familiar number. “Come on. I’m sure Troy would love to see your new form.”

“I can’t climb on the desk anymore,” Rén groused, fluffing his feathers.

“I’ll move the chair over,” Tripitaka reassured him. “There’s plenty of room for both of us.”

If we listen to each other’s heart
We’ll find we’re never too far apart
And maybe love is the reason why
For the first time ever, we’re seeing it eye to eye