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The Rising Explorers
Two-Toned Espurr: Apologies on disturbing everyone’s day, but could I ask to stay over for two nights?
Professor Does-Nothing: Amethio is actually asking to stay on the Brave Olivine willingly? Must be serious.
Sprigatito Love: Is everything okay, Amethio?
Two-Toned Espurr: As you may know, Mr Awfully Shy enjoys planning his traps without revealing himself. However, this time he came up to me and openly challenged me to be prepared tomorrow. I refuse to be present for whatever shenanigans he planned, so currently I am planning an escape plan.
Emo Doctor: And that means hiding on our airship?
Two-Toned Espurr: Again, my apologies.
Dessert King: I guess it’s because it’s April Fool’s Day tomorrow.
Two-Toned Espurr: I beg your pardon?
Rhydon’s Muscles: April Fool’s Day, sir. The day where pranks are pulled on other people.
Two-Toned Espurr: So it is. All the more I should get away.
Machines Lover: Did you not realize it, Amethio?
Two-Toned Espurr: Regrettably, no. Dates on the calendar are of no consequence unless there’s an important event I should note of. Perhaps I should note down April Fool’s every year from now on.
Professor Does-Nothing: Well, there’s nothing wrong with staying over on the Brave Olivine other than being cautious of me because I pull pranks every year without fail.
Emo Doctor: He does do that.
Two-Toned Espurr: I rather take on your pranks than a certain someone’s traps because at least I know they are childish at best.
Machines Lover: Friede is the childish adult on board.
Professor Does-Nothing: Hey!
Machines Lover: No objections from me though.
Dessert King: Seconded.
Emo Doctor: I don’t mind.
Super Fishing: The more the merrier, they say.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: This is going to be so fun!
Small Purple Dot: What a pain.
Sprigatito Love: We’ll see you later, Amethio!
Two-Toned Espurr: Thank you. Send me your location as soon as possible.
Two-Toned Espurr went offline
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“Again, thank you for letting me stay for awhile.” Amethio thanked the only person awaiting his arrival as he got down from Corviknight on the airship’s wing deck. “I’ll leave the day after tomorrow.”
“You could stay here a little longer just in case that guy planned something longer than tomorrow.” Murdock suggested, at which Amethio shook his head.
“My absence tomorrow would give Mr Awfully Shy sufficient ammunition to ridicule me for some time even with my subordinates covering for me. I refuse to give him any more reason to mock me.”
“You sure have it rough.” Murdock commented as they got onto the elevator. “I won’t ask since you’re here to escape, but maybe you’ll tell us why you’re still in the Explorers despite the treatment you’re getting.”
“Maybe. Where is everyone else?” Amethio asked.
“The kids are in Dot’s room, planning ideas on pranking Friede tomorrow. Orla is in the engine room. Mollie is in the infirmary. Gramps is fishing somewhere and Friede is in the captain’s deck, planning for tomorrow as well. Usually Friede spends the whole day planning in there, so there’s a good chance you’re sleeping alone tonight.”
“That’s fine with me. You’re already letting me stay here. I’m in no position to complain unless it’s about Friede’s snoring.” Murdock laughed as the two exited the elevator, making their way to Friede’s room. “Did I disrupt your plans for the day?”
“Nah, not at all. I was finishing up my food inventory check before I start cooking dinner for everyone. I take it you’re still not a fan of extremely sweet food?”
“If anyone here has a sweet tooth, I offer my regrets for being a monstrosity who is unable to understand how anyone can eat such sugary treats.”
“Don’t worry about the small details. If you’re not busy, could you drop by the kitchen later? I’d like for you to try coffee with Alcremie’s cream before dinner tonight. Everyone else likes it but I’m not sure how it’ll turn out for you.” Amethio nodded as they climbed down the stairs, encountering someone in the corridor.
“Oh! Hey, Amethio!” Liko waved, with Sprigatito meowing in greeting. “How was the trip?”
“Smooth-sailing. Thank you again for having me here.”
“If it makes you feel safe, then there’s no objections from me.” Liko smiled. “I’m going back to Dot’s room now. Murdock, could we have some donuts later, please? I think Dot might overwork herself in trying to plan a successful prank against Friede.”
“Sure thing.” Murdock agreed. “It’s hard to prank Friede but tell Dot I’ll drop them off.”
“Thanks!” The two bid Liko goodbye and turned to the opposite direction, Amethio stopping in front of Friede’s door and Murdock heading straight to the kitchen. Opening the door, Amethio was surprised to see the room quite clean. Granted, it had been clean when he stayed over on Christmas, but it could have been a one time thing. If their past interactions showed anything, Friede appeared to enjoy improvising whenever possible. If that were the case, Amethio had anticipated Friede’s room to be messy whenever he had random thoughts for his theses.
“Either way, I’m glad he actually cleans his room.” Amethio muttered to himself as he placed his bag on Friede’s bed – or rather his bed for the night – and called out Ceruledge. “We’re going to be staying here until the day after tomorrow to escape whatever Spinel is planning. Will you be alright?”
Ceruledge nodded resolutely and Amethio nodded back in gratitude. He then sat down on the bed and took out his Rotom Phone to inform a certain duo his safe arrival.
Amethio, Onia, and Zirc
Amethio: I have arrived on the airship safely.
Onia: Good to know, Master Amethio.
Zirc: You’re coming back in two days, right, sir?
Amethio: Correct. In the meantime, I trust you to keep Mr Awfully Shy off my back or anywhere else he might visit in my absence.
Onia: Copy that, sir.
Zirc: Copy that, sir.
Satisfied with the conversation, Amethio put away his Rotom Phone and laid down to rest. While it may have not been a long trip, it was taxing enough to be wary of Mr Awfully Shy before his departure. To hide out on the base belonging to his enemies was not an idea he would have entertained if not for Christmas.
‘Still… what is he up to with that declaration?’ Amethio wondered with a frown. Closing his eyes, he had wanted to think about what nefarious plot Mr Awfully Shy had in store. Instead, his mind went to darkness, blissfully unaware of the serene look the Fire Blades Pokemon sent his way.
“Amethio!” The teen was startled from his sleep by the knocking on the door. Getting up from the bed, he checked his Rotom Phone and his eyes widened slightly.
‘Two hours?! Well, this is humiliating.’ Amethio thought.
“Amethio?”
“Coming!” He trudged to the door and met the eyes of three surprised kids and three Pokemon in their arms.
“Sorry. Were you sleeping?” Liko apologized.
“So it appears I did.” Amethio replied wryly.
“You mean you didn’t mean to sleep?” Roy asked.
“Not at all. I wanted to figure out what a certain someone is planning, but clearly my mind had other plans. Did you three need something?”
“I didn’t.” Dot mumbled, with Quaxly smacking her arm. “But these two did.”
“Right! We wanted to ask for your help in pranking Friede!” Roy spoke as Fuecoco cheered from his arms.
“I’m afraid I won’t be much help, then. I’m not well-versed in ‘pranks’. You’ll most likely find me boring.”
Dot mumbled something that Amethio could’ve sworn was “told you” but before he could ask about it, Liko spoke up.
“In that case… Um, could we use Corviknight? Orla is using Metagross to check on the balloon and Friede is too busy planning for tomorrow to hear us ask for Charizard earlier.”
“He sounded really creepy! I would’ve thought he was an Explorer after your pendant, Liko.” Roy remarked.
“Are you really freaked out because of Friede?” Amethio raised an eyebrow.
“You should’ve seen him.” Dot retorted. “Even Cap has resigned to sunbathing above the captain’s deck.”
“Duly noted. As for Corviknight, I’ll need to let it know it will be assisting you three.”
“Two.” Dot corrected. “Liko and Roy will be heading into town while I stay behind. I hate going out.”
Amethio shrugged and the group went to the outside deck to release Corviknight from its Poke Ball. Upon hearing the situation, Corviknight squawked in agreement and let itself down so that the two kids could get on easier, even more so with Amethio’s assistance. After giving its Poke Ball to Liko and bidding the three a safe trip, Dot and Amethio returned indoors, Dot to her room and Amethio elsewhere.
“Pardon the intrusion.”
“Ah, Amethio. No need for any formalities in the kitchen!” Murdock cheered as he mixed a bowl. “Did you have a good sleep?”
“You knew?”
“I was expecting you to come by earlier.” He laughed. “Wasn’t anticipating you to be at peace on Friede’s bed when I came by earlier.”
“This is mortifying.”
“Don’t worry. It’s a good thing you got some sleep. I don’t think you were able to relax a little since the creepy guy warned you earlier, did you?” Amethio’s silence spoke volumes to the chef. Instead of pressing further, he changed the topic. “Coffee is still warm. Ready to try some whipped cream coffee?”
Amethio nodded and was presented with a mug of coffee topped with Alcremie’s whipped cream shortly. He took a sip and let the taste linger in his mouth for a moment.
“How is it?”
“I don’t deny it’s good. However, the sweetness is evidently building up. I’m afraid I won’t be able to finish this cup. My apologies, since I know the sweetness of your cream comes from your happiness and I did not wish to upset you.” Amethio apologized to Alcremie, who jumped onto his shoulder and gave him a hug from there.
“Looks like Alcremie is fine. I’ve already told her about your adverseness to extremely sweet stuff, so she isn’t as disappointed. We’ll try something new. Could you wait a moment?”
“I’m just simply hiding on your airship. I am in no rush to do missions for the Explorers at the moment.” Murdock gave a slight laugh before Amethio asked a question. “Does everyone use the same mugs?”
“Sure do.” Amethio hummed as he was given another mug while Murdock finished off the one Amethio couldn’t finish. After taking a sip, the Explorer admin glared at the chef.
“Please tell me you didn’t ask Alcremie to lower her happiness so that her cream is less sweet.”
“As if I would do that!” Murdock replied, stunned. “Wait, do you see such things?”
“If I assume you mean Trainers purposely making their Pokemon upset for their own or someone else’s benefit, you have no idea.”
“Right… I do not want to know. How is the coffee now?”
“Much better actually. I believe I can finish this cup. What did you do if Alcremie’s cream is still sweet?”
“Make the coffee more bitter. Yours is probably the most bitter I’ve made.”
“Whatever works, I suppose. Thank you for trying to accommodate me.”
“You’re a guest here. I wouldn’t be hostile to someone hiding away here.” Amethio conceded and finished his cup of coffee. “Not going to call yourself a hostage?”
“Only in Friede’s presence would I declare myself a hostage. Are you aware Liko and Roy have left the airship on Corviknight?” Murdock paused washing the cup for a moment before resuming.
“No, I didn’t know.”
“I think Friede would’ve known if he wasn’t too engrossed in tomorrow at the very least.”
“Maybe.” The chef chuckled.
“Now, I do not wish to interrupt your plans for dinner any longer, so I shall take my leave.”
“See you later, Amethio! Also, I’m pretty sure I said no formalities in the kitchen.”
Amethio stammered. “In that case, um… See you later.”
Murdock nodded and waved him goodbye. Leaving the kitchen, Amethio made his way to a certain room on the airship with an agenda and knocked on the door.
“Amethio? What do you want?”
“Your assistance. May I come in?” The person allowed Amethio entry and the door closed behind them.
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“Tomorrow is coming to the airship.” Friede sang as Murdock served dinner to everyone in the meeting room with Orla and Liko helping. Liko and Roy had returned about half an hour prior and were cornered by Murdock, who wanted to know if they told anyone else other than Dot and Amethio. It turned out they got permission from Mollie before they went to Amethio and she wished them luck on pranking Friede.
“Alright, we get it, Friede!” Orla placed the plate that Murdock gave to her in front of Friede. “April Fools Day is tomorrow and you’re excited to prank us.”
“That you are right!” Friede planted a kiss to his girlfriend’s cheek. “I’ll try my best to spare you if you want.”
“Now that would be favoritism.”
“I’m seriously reconsidering staying on the ship if you’re this cheery, Friede.” Amethio glowered after thanking Liko, who gave him his dinner.
“If it’s any consolation, Friede at least knows some boundaries.” Murdock patted Amethio.
“Don’t worry, Amethio. I’ll definitely spare you considering your reason for being here in the first place.” Friede placated.
“How generous of you.” Amethio retorted before biting his tongue. “My apologies. I didn’t mean to be snappish.”
“Well, you did have to worry about Mr Awfully Shy. All we can do is hope he does nothing drastic.”
“Maybe…” Everyone began dinner with various topics, from what Amethio had been up to (assuming he can divulge such information), to watching Friede get scolded by Mollie for being too engrossed in planning for April Fools that he didn’t notice Liko and Roy going into town, to a topic no one knew about it came about – Friede’s sleeping habits. Soon, every satisfied person left the meeting room for their respective destinations, ready to greet April Fools tomorrow.
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Amethio winced as sunlight fell onto his closed eyes, forcing him to get up from bed and do some stretching. Ceruledge was still sleeping, so Amethio quietly grabbed his things and went to the bathroom without waking his Pokemon up. He had just finished brushing his teeth when his Rotom Phone went off.
The Rising Explorers
Professor Does-Nothing: Good morning, everyone!
Machines Lover: Well someone is chipper this morning.
Professor Does-Nothing: Of course, my dear Orla. We both know the significance of today. As a refresher though, I’ll just remind everyone what today is.
Professor Does-Nothing: Happy Strippers Day, everyone! It's that time of the year where I show you how a master stripper strips people!
Two-Toned Espurr: …
Dessert King: …
Super Fishing: …
Machines Lover: …
Emo Doctor: Friede…
Cat-sitter: Excuse me?
Rhydon's Muscles: I was wondering what had Onia so flustered…
Sprigatito Love: jigbfvargvaonaerbjk
Charizard's No 1 Fan: What’s a stripper?
Professor Does–Nothing: Stripper?
Professor Does–Nothing: WHAT DID I JUST SEND
Two-Toned Espurr: That’s what I would like to know.
Emo Doctor: Roy, we’ll tell you what is it some other time. This is too much for one morning.
Professor Does–Nothing: NO NO. THIS IS NOT WHAT I MEANT TO SEND
Professor Does–Nothing: I wanted to send “Happy Strippers Day”!
Professor Does–Nothing: Happy Strippers Day
Professor Does–Nothing: Happy Strippers Day
Professor Does–Nothing: … NOOOOOOOOOOOO
Professor Does–Nothing: Did my phone really break this morning?
Professor Does–Nothing: Dot, didn’t you fix my phone?
Small Purple Dot: I did.
Professor Does–Nothing: Then why is my texting so weird?
Small Purple Dot: Maybe the person sending it is weird.
Small Purple Dot went offline
Machines Lover: I guess even Dot is fed up?
Machines Lover: Wait, did you break your phone recently?
Professor Does-Nothing: This morning actually. The screen was cracked so I asked Dot to salvage anything if the phone is irreparable. She told me she fixed it while giving the phone back to me.
Dessert King: What are the chances Dot pranked your phone when she had the chance?
Cat-sitter: That would be something *laughing emoji*
Professor Does-Nothing: Someone else pulled a prank before I did? This is mortifying!
Two-Toned Espurr: I’m just pleased to know you are not immune to being pranked.
Professor Does-Nothing: I’ll just hide out in the captain’s deck.
Dessert King: After breakfast if you wish. I do not want you to eat breakfast alone.
Professor Does-Nothing: Fine then…
Professor Does-Nothing went offline
Dessert King went offline
Two-Toned Espurr went offline
Amethio had just placed his phone back into his pocket when the bathroom door was knocked on. “I’ll be out shortly.”
Grabbing his things, he opened the door, revealing Liko on the other side. He raised an eyebrow and said. “This feels familiar.”
“Christmas Day.” She giggled. “Good morning, Amethio.”
“Good morning. You look happy for someone who was flustered over Friede’s message.”
“Ah. Well…” Liko flushed. “I never thought it would happen…”
“You mean what I asked of Dot yesterday?” Liko nodded.
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Yesterday…
“Amethio? What do you want?” Dot asked as she opened the door.
“Your assistance. May I come in?” After a moment of hesitation, Dot stepped back to allow Amethio entry into her room.
“Never thought I would let you in. Not even Murdock comes to my room. You can sit on the bed. Liko and Roy always do so when they invade my room.” Dot muttered.
“Thank you for the invitation.” Amethio replied before the two fell into silence.
“So you need my help?” Dot reluctantly prompted.
“Indeed. I have a suggestion regarding your earlier situation but I have no means of pulling it off.”
“Why come to me?”
“The other two of your trio left for the town, didn’t they?” Amethio raised an eyebrow.
“What do you suggest?” Dot asked, trying desperately to hide the flush on her cheeks.
“Is there anyway you can hack into Friede’s phone?”
“Remotely, no. Did you want to tamper something on Friede’s phone?”
“You are aware our phones have a text replacement function, correct?” When Dot nodded, he continued. ”I simply want to change a few words somehow without getting his phone. I fear he might be suspicious if I were to suddenly ask for it.”
“True. April Fools is tomorrow, so he’s on high alert.” Dot then searched through her drawers, confusing Amethio at her sudden action. After some rummaging, Dot let out a small smile and handed Amethio something after applying what seemed to be an adhesive to it.
“A cracked screen protector?”
“I cracked my phone once and I had this screen protector on. I should’ve thrown it away but I found it a pain. So I kept it. I heard from Orla how Friede tends to move around in his sleep a lot, and he broke his phone doing that sometimes as well.”
“I see your intentions now. I shall do my best.”
“Do you have a list?”
“Pardon?”
“A list… Of words you want to change in Friede’s phone.”
“It isn’t much, but I do have a list of sorts. Here.” Amethio handed Dot his Rotom Phone so the girl could see what he had in mind. “Also, I have another suggestion.”
“What are you going to suggest now?”
“Another prank idea. Run it with Liko and Roy too.”
“I’m listening.” Dot leaned forward.
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“I had expected Friede to be cheery this morning but this is far too cheery for my liking.” Amethio shook his head. “Replacing the words relating to ‘prank’ and ‘April Fools’ worked better than I thought.”
“This is simply part one, right?” Liko asked as she giggled.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Amethio smirked as he left Liko and made his way to his accommodation. Upon arriving, however, he found Roy waiting for him.
“Morning, Amethio! Can we have a battle later, please? I want revenge for the time on my island!”
“Why not? I’ll see you before lunch.” Roy ran off happily and Amethio entered the room, meeting the gaze of his unimpressed partner. “Good morning, Ceruledge.”
“…”
“Don’t be upset. I didn’t wish to disturb your sleep.”
“…”
“Would it help if I left a note next time?”
“Ceru!” Amethio smiled softly at the Fire Blades Pokemon.
“We’re going to battle Roy later. I trust you’ll be in top form?”
“Ledge!”
“Thank you. Now let us have breakfast.” The two left for the meeting room, finding only Liko and Friede missing upon arrival. Amethio mused the girl spent some time in the bathroom while the leader of the Rising Volt Tacklers was still mortified to show his face. Taking a seat, Amethio thanked Murdock for the food and began eating just as Liko strolled in with a down-trodden Friede.
“Good morning, Friede.” Mollie smirked.
“Please, not a word about what happened earlier from any of you.” Cap snickered at his Trainer’s misfortune.
“But Friede…” Orla glanced at Friede with a not-so-innocent look. “We’re eagerly awaiting for the show.”
“Surely you won’t disappoint us?” Murdock chuckled.
“Pipika pika!” Cap cheered.
“Can I watch?” Roy asked eagerly.
“No. You and Liko should go back to your rooms when you finish your breakfast.” Amethio sternly declined.
“Why do you get to stay? You’re not that much older than us.”
“Maybe not, but Amethio is plenty more responsible as well. He can choose to stay or go.” Mollie said.
“What does responsibility have anything to do with stripping?” Roy wondered as Liko grew red at his question. Friede placed his face in his palms while Orla giggled.
“You’ll know some other time. Now let’s change the topic before Friede combusts.”
“I think I’d rather combust now.”
“Eat before you combust.” Everyone resumed talking, except for Friede, who remained mortified and just ate silently. Liko and Murdock were talking about a new recipe book she got for him during her excursion the day before. Mollie and Roy were talking about basic first-aid since Roy tended to hurt himself while training. Amethio and Orla talked about Friede’s university days, despite her and Friede not going to the same university in the past, while Ludlow enjoyed his food.
“I’m sorry, but did I hear that correctly?” Amethio asked, surprised. “Friede successfully conducted a class when it was supposed to be a punishment for not attending a certain class for a few weeks?”
“You heard it right. Looks like the teacher was super furious by how the students rely on Friede more as a result of that class.”
“Wait, why did Friede skip class for those weeks?”
“Get this.” Orla snickered. “He was busy tutoring some juniors who were struggling to pass their own class.”
“How did he even meet those juniors?”
“He met them in the school library while he was searching for books for the very class he would eventually skip.” At last, Orla broke down at the sheer irony at the situation, with Amethio not faring any better if the twitch of his lip was any indication. Roy approached Amethio in the midst of Orla’s failure to get her laughter under control and asked if they could battle now, the urge to battle evidently winning over Roy’s patience to wait a few hours. Since Orla was a lost cause at the moment and Friede escaped the room at some point, Amethio agreed and the two headed for the wing deck once they passed their finished plates to Murdock.
“Revenge time!”
“Fue!” Roy and Fuecoco stood determinedly on one side of the battlefield while a relaxed Amethio stood on the other side as Ceruledge extended its blades.
“Let’s see what you got. Ceruledge, use Psycho Cut!” Ceruledge unleashed a blade of pink energy towards the Fire Croc Pokemon, who managed to dodge.
“Flamethrower!”
“Dodge with Phantom Force!” Opening a portal below itself, Ceruledge avoided the fire attack and left Fuecoco on guard. Fuecoco held his ground as his head turned left and right, wary of where the Fire Blades Pokemon would exit from.
“On your right, Fuecoco!” At Roy’s call, Fuecoco turned right but was unable to avoid the hit from Ceruledge, getting substantial damage. As Ceruledge returned to Amethio’s side with another portal, Roy ordered Fuecoco to use Stomping Tantrum.
“Take the attack, Ceruledge!” Amethio’s order surprised the younger boy. As splinters of the ground landed on Ceruledge, a layer of purple appeared around it before shattering the next second, with a red glow rising from the ground.
“What just happened?” Roy asked, shocked.
“You just triggered Ceruledge’s Ability with Stomping Tantrum. Ceruledge’s defense is lowered but its speed increases more. You were hoping I would have Ceruledge dodge Stomping Tantrum to have its power increased for the next time it’s used, weren’t you? Especially since Ceruledge is weak to Ground-type moves. Unfortunately, I refuse to let it happen. Small damage but the reward is worth it. Now, Ceruledge, use Night Slash continuously!”
“No way!”
Ceruledge dashed towards the panicking Pokemon with its glowing white blades and struck Fuecoco relentlessly. Roy watched helplessly as Fuecoco could not dodge any of Ceruledge’s attacks thanks to its increased speed. Eventually, Fuecoco laid on the battlefield, unconscious.
“Aw man! I still can’t beat you.” Roy pouted as he cradled Fuecoco. Amethio walked up to the boy and shrugged slightly.
“At least you made some progress since our last battle. I don’t believe you’re someone who would sit still, but it is a relief to see you improve, even if it is by a minuscule.”
“Rematch! Can we have Corviknight and Wattrel battle each other while Fuecoco recovers?” At that moment, Corviknight flew onto the wing deck, having been let out earlier for breakfast and was still eating when the two Trainers finished their breakfast. As if it heard Roy’s request, Corviknight squawked happily, eager to battle.
“Seems like Corviknight is eager to battle. Let us start again.”
“Wattrel has the type advantage, doesn’t it?” When Amethio simply hummed, Roy continued as he called out Wattrel. “Then maybe I can win this.”
“We’ll see. Corviknight, use Air Slash!” Once its wings glow light blue, Corviknight threw blades of energy towards the small Pokemon. Wattrel attempted to fly up, which was successful to a degree, but not enough for Amethio to not notice something peculiar about Wattrel’s flying. “Now use Hurricane!”
Unleashing a powerful gust of wind, Wattrel was tossed around helplessly in the hurricane. Its wings, however, began producing some electricity the longer it stayed in the hurricane. Once it died down, Roy ordered Wattrel to use Spark, sending the charged Storm Petrel Pokemon towards the Raven Pokemon. Not willing to get hit, Corviknight knocked Wattrel back with Air Slash, sending it to the ground.
“Use Body Press!” Corviknight flew into the air and slammed itself onto the weakened Wattrel, effectively defeating it. While Roy tended to Wattrel, Amethio was left in deep thought.
“What’s wrong?” Roy asked as he approached Amethio.
“I probably went too far with that last move.” He admitted.
“No, you didn’t. I’m happy you didn’t hold back. It just means we all can improve more, right, Wattrel? Fuecoco?” When both of Roy’s Pokemon cried out in agreement, Amethio smiled a little before asking a question.
“Your Wattrel… It doesn’t fly well, does it?”
“No. It had a fear of heights.”
“That’s ironic.” Amethio chuckled slightly. “I assume that even though it has overcome its fear, its time of not being able to fly has stopped Wattrel from being good at flying?”
“The strong winds doesn’t help either. You saw how Wattrel couldn’t keep itself steady in the hurricane. I’m happy Wattrel can fly, but seeing it struggling always leaves me feeling like I should do more to help.” Corviknight approached Roy, glancing at Wattrel in its Trainer’s arms.
“Cor!” Corviknight spread its wings before gently flapping them.
“I think Corviknight wishes to help Wattrel.” Amethio assumed, and got a confirmation squawk from it. Wattrel got out of Roy’s arms and looked curiously at the Raven Pokemon, who continued flapping its wings. Slowly, Wattrel did the same and the two took off for the sky. “Looks like we can leave those two alone for their private lesson.”
“Yeah! Wattrel, we’ll head back in first, alright?” Wattrel nodded and continued flying with Corviknight as Roy, Fuecoco, Amethio, and Ceruledge went back into the airship. By the time the two aviary Pokemon went to the outside deck, it was lunchtime. In the meeting room, someone was evidently jittery.
“Roy, why are you more excited than usual?” Murdock asked warily.
“I’m just hoping for something.” Was Roy said before the door opened again, this time revealing someone who caused Roy to laugh cheerily and the others to be stunned.
“Alright, who spiked my shampoo?” Friede asked as his hair was no longer the white he’s proud of, but instead a bright shade of flaming red. Everyone turned to the boy, who collapsed from laughing. “Never mind. It seems like I got my suspect.”
“Happy April Fools, Friede!” Roy said mid-laughter as Orla, who was also laughing, snapped a picture and sent it to the group chat so that Zirc and Onia wouldn’t miss it. Cap gave a thumbs up to the fallen boy while Friede glared at his traitor of a partner.
“I don’t believe it. Friede got pranked twice?” Murdock laughed heartily, causing others who were holding in their laughter to join in as well.
“No one is invincible. One day, they, too, shall fall.” Ludlow remarked. Lunch didn’t exactly go smoothly as one glance at Friede would cause one to suddenly burst into laughter, with Mollie and Amethio being the only ones who remained composed at the best they could, only having a small tug at the lip. Roy almost couldn’t finish eating his lunch when he kept choking in the midst of his laughter.
“That’s it. Roy, you’re going to be my main victim next year!” Friede declared once lunch was over and Roy still hadn’t calmed down. Amethio shook his head and left the meeting room for his temporary room, being joined by Mollie and Liko. Once out of earshot, Mollie spoke.
“You both had something to do with Friede’s new hairstyle, didn’t you?”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Amethio retorted as Liko also deflected the blame.
“I saw you entering Dot’s room yesterday, Amethio, and I also saw Roy with hair dye when he entered the bathroom this morning. Liko, you and Roy rarely plan anything separately if anything big is going on, so you’re definitely involved. It’s not hard to involve Dot once you two collaborate together in a plan. If I had to guess, Amethio gave an idea and you bought the hair dye when you went to town yesterday.”
“You have no proof.” Amethio pointed out.
“True, but I figured I should let you know there’s someone who’s aware of something to a degree.” Mollie waved the two goodbye as she and Chansey returned to the infirmary.
“She got us, didn’t she?” Amethio muttered as Liko nodded solemnly.
==========================================================
Yesterday…
“A prank idea. Run it with Liko and Roy too.”
“I’m listening.” Dot leaned forward.
“Do you recall the story Zirc mentioned when we were at the shrine for New Year?”
“Are you suggesting we spike the shampoo?”
“Indeed. It’s small but perhaps not something he would notice if he’s too devastated by the text prank.”
“This could work.” Dot muttered. “Let me text Liko and Roy quickly.”
A few minutes later, Amethio’s Rotom Phone rang.
Scheming Trio
Sprigatito Love added you
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: That could work!
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: Oh, hey, Amethio!
Two-Toned Espurr: Greetings. If I were to ignore the group name, it seems like I got inducted into your scheming.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: Might as well so that Dot won’t find playing messenger a pain.
Sprigatito Love: Sorry, Dot.
Small Purple Dot: It was a pain to have this group chat from the start. I told them about your texting prank earlier too.
Two-Toned Espurr: Bringing back the topic, it looks like you two are in agreement with hair dye?
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: Yeah!
Sprigatito Love: I am!
Sprigatito Love: But what color should we use?
Two-Toned Espurr: If Friede remembers the story, then pink is out of the picture.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: Aw, I would’ve liked to see pink.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: Then how about green?
Two-Toned Espurr: Objected. That would be an eyesore on Friede. No offense to Sprigatito.
Sprigatito Love: No worries, she’s not offended.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: How about red?
Two-Toned Espurr: Better.
Sprigatito Love: We just arrived at a shop that sells hair dyes and it looks like they ran out of green.
Two-Toned Espurr: Seems like people either want to make the color trend or make their friends an eyesore.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: We’ve got the hair dye!
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: When should we put it in?
Small Purple Dot: Do it when you wake up tomorrow. Friede will probably check the shampoo before sleeping.
Sprigatito Love: What wouldn’t stop him from doing the same when he wakes up tomorrow morning?
Small Purple Dot: Texting mortification.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: That works.
Two-Toned Espurr: Could I trouble you both to purchase something for me while you’re in town?
Sprigatito Love: What is it?
==========================================================
“I’ll head back to Friede’s room now.” Amethio sighed.
“You could call it your room too while you’re here.” Liko giggled.
“I’ll consider it my room if I can kick Friede out. I’ll see you later.” Bidding farewell to Liko, Amethio entered Friede’s room and spent most of the afternoon reading some of Friede’s books, with the remainder of the time spent doing something with the item he asked Liko and Roy to buy for him the previous day.
When dinner time arrived, Friede looked around the meeting room warily, though no longer as mortified as he was earlier in the day. All he saw, however, was Murdock and Amethio having a conversation while they set the plates and coffee mugs. People began trickling in once Friede sat down, some lost in their own conversations and dinner soon became a lively affair.
“Well, this certainly is a day to remember.” Mollie remarked as she took a bite of her dinner.
“Indeed.” Amethio agreed. “I came here seeking refuge, not get embroiled in whatever occurred today. Friede, what did you plan for today?”
“Nothing.” Friede smiled.
“Excuse me?”
“I planned nothing today. Everyone here has been on guard for my pranks every year since the team was formed, except for you, Liko, and Roy. I figured the best prank to pull would be no pranks to pull.”
“That is utterly stupid.”
“Yet clever.” Orla giggled. “The sight of Friede would definitely have left us concerned today. If not for the fact that Friede here got pranked twice.”
“I asked Dot earlier if she pranked my phone,” Friede started. “She admitted to tampering my phone but she denied the idea was hers. Argh, now I really wonder who had the idea.”
Grabbing the coffee mug to drink, Friede tilted the cup… only for Orla and Murdock to choke on their food just as Friede took a sip. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing!”
“Just ignore us!” Friede shrugged and took another sip, this time Liko choked on her food. Narrowing his eyes, Friede glanced at the cup and found nothing that could’ve caused three people to choke on their food. Bringing the cup closer, he almost took another sip before realizing another possibility.
Friede raised the mug…
And found a picture of an Oinkologne’s snout stuck to the bottom of the mug. Everyone burst into laughter when he found out, with Amethio only letting out a small laugh while the others laughed boisterously.
“Oh Arceus, Friede!” Orla wiped a tear from her eye as she comforted her pouting boyfriend.
“I suppose that makes it three times.” Murdock commented as he began drinking his coffee, only for Roy to laugh even harder when his eyes landed on the chef. Cautiously, Murdock looked at the bottom of his mug, and found the same picture under his mug. Seeing the action, everyone else checked their mugs and found a snout stuck on the bottom of their mugs as well.
“Looks like everyone got pranked this evening.” Ludlow jovially said before drinking coffee from his pranked mug. Sharing a good laughter, no one noticed two pairs of eyes meeting a third one, with the person in question just sipping quietly.
==========================================================
Yesterday…
Scheming Trio
Two-Toned Espurr: Could I trouble you both to purchase something for me while you’re in town?
Sprigatito Love: What is it?
Two-Toned Espurr: Some sticker paper please. Preferably the ones you can draw on.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: What are you going to do?
Two-Toned Espurr: Suffocate some people.
Sprigatito Love: Amethio!
Two-Toned Espurr: You’ll see what I mean tomorrow.
==========================================================
“Here you go.” Liko handed Amethio the item he requested and bit her lip. “You’re not really going to suffocate people, are you?”
“Directly, no. They’re going to choke themselves when they see it, though. Would you like the leftover sheets? I’m afraid I can’t bring them back with me.”
“Sure. Thanks, Amethio. Do you need help?”
“I appreciate the offer, but I believe I can handle this much on my own.”
==========================================================
Today…
Amethio opened the kitchen door and found no one inside. As swift as he entered, he exited the kitchen after taking a mug and retreated to his room. With the mug as the source of tracing, Amethio began drawing nine circles based on the bottom of the coffee mug and drew Oinkologne’s snout in each circle. He took a cursory glance over to make sure the images were decent before cutting them out and pasting the stickers onto all nine mugs.
“May this be the last prank of the day.” Amethio whispered as he closed the cupboard door and began texting Murdock to offer to help with dinner.
==========================================================
“Can we have a sleepover tonight?” Roy asked. “Now that it’s night, I kind of feel bad for Friede.”
“Don’t worry, bud.” Friede placed a hand on the boy’s shoulder. “The thing about April Fools is that everyone should have fun. I’ll be honest, I had fun today even though I was the main target of the pranks. Can’t say I didn’t deserve it.”
“If it would ease your guilt, Roy, then I don’t mind having a sleepover this time.” Murdock agreed, with everyone else echoing their sentiments. The group then went their separate ways to not only change into their nightwear but also to grab pillows, blankets, and any other miscellaneous items such as…
“Not that I doubted you, but it is pleasing to see you have kept the plush.” Amethio remarked when he saw Liko appear with Sprigatito and Hatenna plushies in hand.
“Same here.” Liko smiled at the Charcadet and Rookidee plushies that Amethio was holding, with one of them wearing a purple Santa hat.
“I brought them over because I do not want Mr Awfully Shy to mock me if he somehow entered my room and saw these.” Amethio defended with a barely noticeable blush.
“You still have the tag on the Charcadet plush?”
“So it seems. I should remove it.”
“Don’t!” Amethio took an involuntary step backwards at Liko’s outburst, causing the girl to apologize. “Sorry. I guess you didn’t read the tag.”
Looking curiously at Liko, Amethio looked at the tag. His mouth parted slightly when he read the message he never knew existed all these years.
‘To the one with this plush, Merry Christmas! - Liko’
“To think I would’ve gotten your name if I just read the tag.”
“Honestly, I forgot no one reads the tag.” Liko admitted sheepishly.
“At least your message wasn’t lost to time.”
“I’m glad for that.” Liko beamed at Amethio.
“Hey, lovebirds! Hurry up and come in! We’re going watch ‘Spy and Sidekick’!” Friede called.
“Shut up!” Amethio retorted as he and Liko entered the meeting room. With the table in the center moved to the side, everyone had the space to sit down on the floor comfortably as Friede set up the projector so that they all could watch a movie on the wall. Friede and Orla were sitting next to each other in the middle. Mollie sat on Orla’s left as Murdock did on Friede’s right. Ludlow sat on a chair behind the four of them. Amethio, Liko, Roy, and Dot, who came out after being pestered by Liko and Roy, sat in front of the four adults as the film began to play.
As the film played on, some changes were made to the arrangement. Murdock now laid himself on the floor, completely asleep, same with Ludlow but on the chair. Friede and Orla were snoozing quietly, the latter’s head on Friede’s shoulder and the former on top of Orla’s head. Mollie leaned against the cabinet with her tired eyes closed, leaving the four young people awake by the time the film’s climax arrived. The Pokemon, meanwhile, are all fast asleep in the corner of the meeting room.
“Everyone’s asleep.” Dot noted.
“It’s been a tiring day, if I were to assume.” Amethio suggested.
“I’ve got an idea!” Roy excitedly whispered and left before anyone could ask. When he returned, he didn’t return empty-handed.
“Markers?” Liko asked.
“Last prank while the day is here. Let’s draw on their faces! Don’t worry, this ink is safe.”
“I don’t know…”
“No.”
“I refuse to be part of this.” Roy pouted at being rejected thrice before deciding to smile not-so-innocently at a target.
“Liko… Let’s do this in the name of fun… You know you want to… Join me…” Roy slowly held a marker in front of a panicking Liko, with Dot and Amethio encouraging her to not fall for Roy’s antics.
“Don’t give up, Liko!”
“Don’t fall for this foolishness!” After a moment of bickering, to their shock, Liko took the offered marker and went to Orla like a zombie, drawing something like gears on her face.
“Dot… I have bright colored markers here… You should take this chance to prank Murdock’s face…” Roy offered another marker to Dot, who tried to back away, only for Liko to hold her in place with the same smile as Roy’s.
“C’mon, Dot… There’s no time like the present… You’ll see this is not a pain but a fun memory… Join us…”
“N-No!” Dot began shaking. “Did you two lose your minds tonight?”
“What is this madness?” Amethio questioned as he went for the door to escape, only to find it locked. “W-What?!”
“Oh, don’t worry, sweet Amethio. It’s your turn once Dot takes the marker. You can’t go unlocking that door now.” Liko said in an eerie voice.
“No! You can’t make me!” Mollie stirred a little at Dot’s outburst but went back to sleep, leaving Dot anxious as Roy held the marker closer to Dot.
“Don’t fall for this!” Amethio urged, not eager at the thought being the next target of this little event while trying his best to unlock the door in, what he’ll forever deny if anyone asked, his panic. “Can’t believe I thought spending some time here away from the Explorers was a good idea. You two are more of a threat than I thought!”
“Make that three.” Dot whispered.
“I beg your pardon?” Amethio’s head whipped to the tech specialist.
“Make that three.” Dot spoke a little louder, albeit tonelessly as she grabbed the marker from a victorious Roy’s hand and went to draw what it appeared to be a pink strawberry on Murdock’s cheek. Liko and Roy turned their smiles onto the final unwilling participant, with the two being joined by a smiling Dot once she was done.
“This is utter madness!” Amethio backed away from the three not-so-innocent kids, who were holding the deadly markers. “I am not going to be a part of this cult!”
“But Amethio…” Liko started.
“You’ve been stressed all day because of Mr Awfully Shy…” Roy continued.
“You deserve a small time to have fun…” Dot finished off.
“Join us…” The three said in unison.
“N-No!” Amethio was unable to move, not only because he had completely backed himself to the wall, but also because Roy and Dot were holding onto him, with Liko stepping closer with a marker in hand. “I will not submit to this madness!”
“Join us…” He struggled unusually against the hold of two kids, one of whom should’ve been significantly weaker than him given her lack of stamina and unwillingness to leave her room.
‘Is my strength being drained by these miscreants? How could this be?!’ Amethio thought to himself as he continued to fight against the three zombies. “I won’t do something so childish!”
“But Amethio…” Liko began again.
“You’re only a few years older than us.” Roy proceeded.
“You’re not an adult yet…” Dot concluded.
“Are you…?” Amethio’s eyes widened.
‘They’re right. I’m not an adult yet. No!’ Amethio shook his head at the intrusive thoughts. ‘What am I thinking? I should be fighting against them!’
“Just because I’m not an adult yet doesn’t mean I should humor you in this endeavor!”
“Who says you’re humoring us…?” Liko asked.
“We’re doing this for your sake…” Roy spoke.
“Let yourself go…” Dot finished.
“And join us…” Against his protest, Amethio’s legs buckled slightly as the light from his eyes dimmed. Whatever strength he utilized to rebel against his manipulators seemed vanish.
‘No… I should fight against… No… They’re right… When else will I get to do this again?’ Mindlessly, the newly turned zombie sagged against the wall and raised his hand, taking the marker from Liko while he was released from the hold of his two conspirators before heading towards Mollie, drawing a red cross and Chansey’s egg on her face. Roy went on to draw water droplets on Ludlow in his victory in convincing three people to his cause. Shortly after, they regrouped in front of the final target.
“What should we do…?” Amethio questioned.
“Cap’s red spots should definitely be drawn…” Dot said.
“Maybe some fire too…” Liko suggested.
“Let’s get started…” Roy ordered as the four closed in on their blissfully ignorant target. As soon as the job was done, the four took some pictures and fled from the meeting room to the outside deck, with one person regaining his conscience once the cold breeze hit his face.
“No! What have I done?” Amethio stared at his hands in horror while Liko and Roy broke down into laughter with tears in their eyes. Dot stared at the two exasperated while running her hand through her hair.
“You had fun, Amethio.” Roy offered. The teen glanced warily at Roy and sighed.
“If I did this when I was younger, I would have been disciplined for sure.” Turning to Roy, who looked ready to apologize, Amethio’s next statement surprised them. “Thank you.”
“Y-You’re welcome.”
“But don’t force me into something like this next time.”
“No promises.” Roy beamed, causing Amethio to sigh again.
“I should expect this again, huh.”
“Sorry, Amethio.” Liko apologized on her friend’s behalf.
“Don’t apologize. If it helps, I should thank you for taking me in when I should be worrying about a different matter. Now I don’t feel as concerned as I was for when I head back tomorrow.”
“You’re welcome.” Liko smiled.
“Just don’t make this a habit.” Dot grumbled.
“Dot!” Roy scolded.
“I fear that would be difficult.” Amethio mused.
“Figured.” The four looked at the starry sky that greeted them. Amethio smiled wistfully at the irony of today. He should be enemies with the kids that were presently giggling next to him about something and not spend the day like there was no grand adventure going on with their respective teams. He should be out there fulfilling his grandfather’s wish. Yet, strangely he didn’t mind detours like today if it meant lifting the weight off his shoulders even just a little bit. His ever-changing thoughts were broken by Roy’s incredulous suggestion that flew out of his mouth.
“Now let’s prank each other’s faces next!”
“I dread to ask but why?” Dot probably glared but with her hair in the way, Amethio couldn’t tell.
“To throw suspicions obviously.” Roy replied with a hint of ‘duh’ in his answer.
“Fine.” She sighed as Roy got to work on her face once they returned to the meeting room.
“As much as I am against this, he’s right. Sorry, Liko.” Amethio began drawing on Liko’s face, with both pairs drawing their partners’ faces once their own faces were done.
“Good night, everyone.” Liko wished everyone good night and the four drifted off to sleep.
==========================================================
The following morning, nine pranked faces were sent to the group chat.
The Rising Explorers
*Professor Does-Nothing sent four images*
*Charizard’s No 1 Fan sent five images*
Cat-sitter: You all seemed to have a good night
Rhydon’s Muscles: Master Amethio, are you alright, sir?
Two-Toned Espurr: How do you want me to answer that?
Professor Does-Nothing: Amethio is doing fine!
Two-Toned Espurr: Don’t answer on my behalf, Friede!
Two-Toned Espurr went offline
Amethio grumbled, with last night’s doodles still present on everyone’s faces. “I am definitely not eager to return later but I must assess the damage done.”
“Before that, there’s something we need to do.” Friede stopped the Explorer admin. “Since April Fools is over, we now confess our pathetic sins.”
“Even though it sounds ridiculous,” Mollie interrupted a retort that no doubt was going to escape Amethio’s mouth, “we do confess who pranked during April Fools the day after so we can record it into this notebook here.”
Taking the notebook, Liko and Roy crowded around Amethio, who flipped the pages as they read on. It was meticulous to say the least, for not only were the classic targets and masterminds listed but even the steps taken to prank were listed. Collaborations were listed together under masterminds and even last words were recorded. A pen slipped into vision, with Amethio raising an eyebrow at the person offering it.
“I did say someone here knows what you did to a degree. Now is the time to confess fully.” Molly said unrepentant. Amethio turned to Liko and Roy, who nodded, and sighed as he started scribbling the pranks they carried out into the notebook. From tampering Friede’s phone, to his new hairstyle, nothing was left out. Friede took the notebook and his eyes bulged at the new entries.
“It was you who masterminded everything?” Friede stared wide eyed at Amethio, who was texting someone like he didn’t commit any major crimes the day before.
“I’d address it as ‘suggesting ideas’ if you don’t mind.”
“After I promised to spare you from yesterday too.” Friede pretended to wipe a tear from his eye, causing Amethio to roll his.
“Since we’re confessing here, I’ll confess I never intended on pranking you when I asked to board the ship. In fact, all I was going to do try to keep my mind off whatever Mr Awfully Shy was planning. However, there was this thought in my head that told me pranking you could relief me of some stress. Especially since you’re the source of my stress sometimes.”
“If it helps, then I’m happy to be of service, even involuntary!” Friede tossed a stupid grin to an exasperated Amethio, who turned to Roy.
“Looks like throwing suspicions off us didn’t work if this was going to happen.”
“We weren’t here long enough to know this.” Roy had his head lowered as Liko sweat dropped.
“I should head back now. Thank you again for letting me stay.”
“If you need to escape again, feel free to come back.” Mollie joked.
“I’ll remember that next time.” Amethio sarcastically replied as everyone left the meeting room to watch their guest (or hostage if he were to argue with Friede again) leave after cleaning up. “I’ll update you on whether Mr Awfully Shy did anything in my absence if you’d like.”
“That’ll be good. Even I’m worried about what he could do.” Liko agreed.
“See you later.” Amethio nodded and took off on Corviknight back to the Explorers base.
==========================================================
The Rising Explorers
Two-Toned Espurr: Zirc, Onia, you two were keeping guard of my room or anywhere else I would frequent, weren’t you?
Cat-sitter: One of us never left the entrance of your room at all times, sir!
Two-Toned Espurr: Then perhaps it slipped your mind that someone has a Pokemon that happened to know Teleport?
Cat-sitter: …
Rhydon’s Muscles: …
Dessert King: Did something happen after all?
Two-Toned Espurr: As it turns out, getting me to leave my room for the whole day was essential for a certain someone’s plan to succeed.
Professor Does-Nothing: Amethio… What happened?
*Two-Toned Espurr sent three images*
Sprigatito Love: Your room is…!
Two-Toned Espurr: Yes. I am aware my room is entirely pink.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: Even the bed is pink.
Machines Lover: By the looks of it, the pillows, casings, and even your bookshelf is pink!
Dessert King: The ceiling and floor is pink too.
Emo Doctor: Your desk, cabinet, and writing materials are pink too.
Professor Does-Nothing: Amethio. Is there any damage to the books?
Two-Toned Espurr: That’s your priority?!
Two-Toned Espurr: I shouldn’t be surprised a nerd like you would focus on the books.
Cat-sitter: We have failed you, sir.
Two-Toned Espurr: Oh no. You don’t get to say that until you see what else he did.
Two-Toned Espurr: But first, I must tend to the professor who probably can’t sit still at the moment.
*Two-Toned Espurr sent three images*
Two-Toned Espurr: At least he used fake covers rather than outright damaging the books, but despite the atrocious use of pink for the color of the covers, these are what caught my eye.
Professor Does-Nothing: How to Land Yourself a Girlfriend…
Sprigatito Love: A Guide to Accepting Pink 101…
Emo Doctor: Ways of Embracing Your Feelings…
Machines Lover: You’re saying he came up with fake titles for ALL those books?
Two-Toned Espurr: So it would seem.
Two-Toned Espurr: Now, Zirc, Onia… We’ll have words once you see what I am sending next.
*Two-Toned Espurr sent two images*
Two-Toned Espurr: Anything to say to my pink bathroom?
Super Fishing: Oh dear. It seems like your toilet seat and toilet paper have turned pink.
Charizard’s No 1 Fan: Woah, your shower head is pink!
Professor Does-Nothing: Even the tiles got re-tiled into pink!
Machines Lover: How did he pull all of that in one day?
Emo Doctor: Seems like he knows you’re at fault for his hairstyle from that time.
Two-Toned Espurr: With that person, it’s impossible to tell. For all I could say, he’s had it out for me.
Rhydon’s Muscles: We have completely failed you, sir.
Two-Toned Espurr: Indeed. We shall discuss this oversight of yours on a later date. For now, I’m just content with doing absolutely nothing in my room after all the stress I’ve been through.
Professor Does-Nothing: Because of us or Mr Awfully Shy?
Two-Toned Espurr: Both. More of the latter currently though.
Professor Does-Nothing: Want to spend another night here? Room is still open if you want to.
Two-Toned Espurr: Unfortunately, the higher-ups have been informed and now my room is being presently restored. Until then, I am to remain in the hotel room that the Explorers have arranged for me.
Dessert King: You mean you could’ve stayed in a hotel room instead of with us?
Two-Toned Espurr: Indeed, but what is there to do other than wander around a town I’ve been to several times? If I needlessly train again, I have no doubt Zirc and Onia would abandon their posts to stop me from training again. I thought I could spend the day or two doing something different like barely tolerating Friede.
Professor Does-Nothing: Hey!
Dessert King: Hopefully you get more sleep now.
Sprigatito Love: Have a good rest!
Emo Doctor: Rest well, Amethio. You’ve been through plenty in the last two days.
Two-Toned Espurr: Believe me. I intend to solely rest. Thank you for your wishes, though.