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Chapter Text

(Kalos Region, Middle Ages)

Shauna hummed to herself as she made her way through the castle, carrying fresh laundry. To many, being a servant in a castle would be terrible, but to her she couldn't picture being anywhere else. The king and queen were kind and just rulers, and the kingdom had more than flourished under their rule. And it didn't hurt that she was the lady in waiting for their heir, Princess Serena.

"Ah, Shauna! Bonjour!"

Shauna smiled when she saw Miette, her best friend, running up to her.

"Bonjour, Miette!"

"Slurpuff and I have been working on a new Showcase routine! Care to practice with us?"

Shauna shook her head.

"I'd love to, but not today. I need to help Serena get ready."

"Lucky! It must be nice to spend all day with your girlfriend."

Shauna did a double take, darting her eyes about to make sure no one had heard.

"Miette, don't even suggest such a thing!"

Miette giggled.

"Ah, don't be so jumpy! I'm just teasing you."

"Still, you know what might happen…"

"One day things will be different, Shauna. I need to get going. Give the princess my regards!"

"Will do, good luck with Slurpuff!"

Miette hurried off, leaving Shauna alone with her thoughts. With a sigh, she continued to Serena's room.

While Miette loved to tease her, she was correct on one account: she was in love with The Princess. How could she not? She was beautiful, kind, and her smile could light up an entire room. She'd fallen for her the moment she had laid eyes on her at the fall harvest dance. Her graceful dance, her gleeful expression, and the way she choreographed her Eevee to follow her every move, everything about it left her in a trance. If only things were different…

As much as she wished The Princess felt the same way, she knew it could never be. For one, Serena was already engaged to be married to the Prince of Galar Alain. While they had only met a few times, it was clear that he was a loving, gentle soul who would never hurt her. But most importantly, he was a boy, something Shauna could never be.

Romantic relations between people of the same sex wasn't illegal, but it wasn't encouraged either. And since Serena was next in line to the throne, she needed to pass on the family lineage. So even if, by some miracle, Serena did love her, they could never be together.

Fortunately, Miette was the only one who knew, and only because the pressure had gotten to her and she blurted it out while they were alone. And Miette may love to tease, but she'd never betray her trust. So at the very least she could suffer in peace.

Maybe one day things would be different. But until that day came, she could live with just being her lady in waiting.

At long last, she reached Serena's bedroom. Taking a deep breath, she knocked on the mahogany door.

"It's Shauna, Princess!"

"Come in!"

Pushing the door open, she found the Princess adjusting her hair, her sleepwear already shed and tossed aside, allowing Shauna a good look at her beautiful body. Catching Shauna taking a peek, The Princess smirked.

"Like what you see?"

Shauna snapped out of her trance, trying to find an explanation that didn't make her sound like a creep.

"S-Sorry, Princess! I didn't mean to stare, I just-I…"

Serena rolled her eyes.

"Shauna, how many times must I tell you? We're friends, you can call me Serena."

"Right, sorry Pri-Er, Serena. I didn't mean to stare, I just…didn't want to distract you from…"
Serena smiled, and let out a soft laugh, making Shauna's heart skip a beat.

"It's okay, Shauna, I don't mind. Anyway, I take it you brought the dresses?"

"Yep! All ready for you to try on."

Shauna wasn't certain, but she swore Serena's smile briefly turned into a frown.

"Let's get started, then."

"Prin-Serena, is something wrong?"

"It's nothing Shauna, let's see what the weavers cooked up."

"Alright then, let's try dress number 1!"

Serena took the dress from Shauna's hands and began to try it on.

"Feel free to look!"

"Princess!"

Serena giggled, but continued to get dressed. A few minutes later, she was decked from head to toe in white.

"Well?"

"You look beautiful…"

"Oh, you're just saying that."

Well, she wasn't wrong, but Shauna couldn't let her know that.

"No, no! You look amazing!"

"Thanks, but I guess I should try on the others as well."

"Well, we'd hate for them to go to waste!"

"Right."

Serena tried on dress after dress. To Shauna, everything she tried on only enhanced her beauty, but Serena couldn't seem to make up her mind.

"Ugh, this is pointless!"

"Don't say that, we'll find your perfect wedding dress!"

"I don't even want to get married!"

Serena's outburst caught Shauna off guard.

"Princess?"

Serena sat down on her bed and sighed.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to snap at you, you're just doing your job. It's just..I barely know Alain!"

"I'm sure he won't hurt you, he-"

"It's not that! Don't get me wrong, he's perfectly fine, I'm sure he'd make an excellent king and husband. But I barely know him! All this marriage is for is to create some stupid treaty, as if it'll help. If I'm going to be married, I want to marry someone I truly love! And Alain…just isn't it."

"Oh…are you interested in anyone?"

Serena blushed, and looked away.

"You do! Who?"

"I'd rather not say…"

"Oh come on, you can tell me!"

"Well…I've known them a very long time. Almost my whole life, it feels like! And I can tell them anything. Well, almost anything…"

"It's Prince Ash of Alola, isn't it?"

Serena shook her head.

"He's nice, but I haven't seen him in years. Besides, he has eyes for Lady Lillie of Aether."

"Then who?"

"Well…"
Luckily for Serena, a knock on the door distracted Shauna long enough to drop the conversation as Trevor stepped in.

"Pardon me, Princess, but the royal family of Galar is here at Anistar Docks. They want you to meet with your future husband."

"Thank you, Trevor. I'll be there shortly."

Trevor nodded, then left to alert Serena's parents.

"Well, I guess we'd best not keep them waiting."

"You should take that dress off first, though. It's bad luck for the groom to see his bride to be in her wedding dress before the big day, after all."

"Right…"

Serena got up, and Shauna helped her get the dress off before putting on her regular clothes.

"Thank you for helping me, Shauna."

"Of course…Serena."

"Can you promise me something?"

"Anything!"
"Will you continue to be my Lady in Waiting, even after I'm Queen?"

"I will always be there for you, my Princess."

Serena smiled.

"Thank you."

"Now come on!"

Shauna got up and headed towards the courtyard, Serena watching her momentarily before sighing to herself.

"If only…"

Chapter Text

When they reached the courtyard, they found King Augustine Sycamore and Queen Grace waiting for them, along with the Galar Royal Family.

“Serena! Please, come join us.”

“Good evening, your majesties,” Serena said, putting on her bravest face as she offered Alain her hand. “It’s good to see you again, Prince Alain.”

“Likewise, Princess Serena.”

“You must be exhausted from your long journey,” King Augustine responded. “I’ll have the servants show you to your rooms.”

“That would be lovely, thank you,” King Lysandre nodded. “Alain, why don’t you and Serena catch up?”

“Er, father, I could use a-”

“Go along son,” his father said dismissively. “You haven’t seen each other in a year, it’ll be good for you to spend time together.”

“Serena, why don’t you show Alain the garden?” Queen Grace suggested.

“Yes! Come on Alain, why don’t I show you the garden?”

Alain tried to resist, but Serena pulled him away, Lysandre watching them intently.

“Enjoy…for now.”

Serena dragged Alain to the garden, where he breathed a sigh of relief.

“Thanks Serena,” he said, relieved. “God, my father is so domineering!”

“Oh, it can’t be that bad,” Serena said. “What about your mother?”

“She’s alright, but she’s always busy on some kind of new venture.”

Serena sighed.

“At least she’s allowed freedom…”

“Oh, it can’t be that bad!”

“My parents are kind hearted, but they let their fears get the better of them. I’m only ever allowed to leave for official business. All other times, I’m pretty much stuck here learning how to be a princess.”

Serena chuckled.

“Lucky for me, showcases do count as official business.”

Alain chuckled in understanding.

“Very lucky indeed. But at least your parents spend time with you. Father is always off doing I don’t know what, and mother is never around. Sometimes I wish they would put some effort into keeping me in the castle. At least then they’d prove they care…”

Serena offered a kind smile.

“Well, I guess we’re just two peas in a pod, aren’t we?”

Alain chuckled, and returned the smile.

“Too bad we’re not in love.”

Serena laughed. As much as she didn’t want to marry him, she truly did treasure Alain. As much as she lamented her situation, having someone to vent to about it did help somewhat.

She had met Alain a year ago when their fathers had forced them to attend a peace conference. Kalos and Galar had been at war on-and-off for as long as their kingdoms had existed. Her father, ever the eternal optimist, hoped that the next generation could foster peace. Lysandre, being the pragmatist he was, agreed to a treaty on the condition that their heirs be married, a condition her father was all too happy to fulfill. 

Fortunately for Serena, Alain wasn’t too plussed by her lack of romantic interest in him. In fact, like her he had interest in someone he knew his father wouldn’t approve of. At the very least they had a strong friendship, but love could never bloom, and they were fine with that.

“How is Mairin?”

Alain sighed.

“I fear my father is beginning to be suspicious of her. I can only find so many excuses to sneak out at night. I was hoping she could join us, but it was too risky.”

Serena nodded.

“I’m sorry…”

“So, have you talked to Shauna yet?”

Serena gasped.

“Y-You know?”

Alain chuckled.

“You’re not very subtle about it. I’m surprised she doesn’t know yet.”

Serena sighed, brushing her hair back.

“It’s not like I can just tell her. Even if she loves me too, it just couldn’t work.”

“Why not?”

“The kingdom would never accept it.”

“Why should they care? You’d be the queen, if they have a problem with it…”

“And our successor? We can’t produce children together, who would take over the throne?”

“There’s always adoption! Or if we must, I could always…”

Serena sighed.

“In another lifetime, maybe. But there’s too much on the line for me to even risk it.”

“So you’re just going to suffer a lifetime of misery?”

“Well, if you can’t be with the one you love, might as well love the one you’re with.”

Alain nodded. He understood all too well.

A few hours later, dinner was served, and Serena and Alain returned to the dining room, where their families were waiting for them.

“About time you showed up,” King  Lysandre mused, his steely cold gaze making Alain freeze. Luckily, Serena’s mother was more than happy to cover for her.

“Oh, lighten up, Lysandre! I’m sure they were just getting “reacquainted”, if you know what I mean…”

Serena and Alain blushed, and desperately tried to disappear. Lysandre, however, was less than impressed.

“I’m glad you find the idea of them defiling themselves before marriage to be amusing, Queen Grace, but I do not. To even consider such an act would be disgraceful…”

“Oh, lighten up!” King Augustine interjected. “This is supposed to be a celebration, why bog it down with such talk? This is about our two kingdoms coming together and knowing peace!”

Lysandre paused for a moment, then smiled.

“You’re right. My apologies, you two.”

“It’s fine, father.”

“Apolgoy accepted, King Lysandre.”

“Well then,” Augustine interjected, wine goblet in hand. “I’d like to propose a toast! To new beginnings!”

Everyone smiled (some more forced than others), and raised their own.

“To new beginnings!”

After dinner, Shauna showed Alain to his room.

“Thank you, Shauna.”

“Of course, Prince-”

“Alain.”

“Excuse me?”

“Just Alain. Please, don’t refer to my title when we’re alone, I know Serena gives you permission to do the same. Yes, I am a Prince, but I don’t feel the need to flaunt it.”

Shauna smiled.

“Very well. You’re welcome, Alain.”

With that, she stopped and gestured to the room beside them.

“Here you are! I hope you’ll find everything to your liking?”

“I will, thank you.”

“Alright then, if you need anything, just let me or the other servants know.”

“Shauna, wait.”

Shauna turned, only to be pulled into a gentle hug.

“Not everything is as it seems. One day, you’ll  be with the one you love, I promise.”

Shauna was confused, but returned the hug. After he let go, she left, her head spinning. Did he know?

In Serena’s room, she had just finished getting undressed. Shauna had insisted on helping her, but she had politely declined.

“If I can't get ready for bed on my own, how can I expect to lead a kingdom?”

Shauna left, leaving Serena to her thoughts. Just before she went to sleep, she picked up her most prized possession. It was a small, black and green cube made of metal not even the most expert blacksmiths in the kingdom could identify. Her mother, always one for magic and wonder, had said that if someone of pure heart makes a wish on it, it would come true. Serena had never believed it herself, but she figured it couldn’t hurt. Closing her eyes and holding it to her chest, she whispered her deepest desire.

“I wish Shauna and I could be together.”

Chapter Text

It was the dead of night, and the castle was asleep. All except for one.

Lysandre snuck his way out of the castle, keeping an eye on the sky. A smirk appeared on his lips when he spotted a Talonflame on the horizon. Quickly, he followed it for miles until he reached the border, where he found his wife waiting for him.

"About time you showed up," he said as he pulled her into a hug.

"Sorry dear, but planning an attack of this scale does take time. Especially when you have to keep it hidden as well as I have."

"True, but you're the one person I knew could handle it."

"Obviously. Well?"

Lysandre looked toward the army Malva had assembled and nodded.

"Perfect, just like I imagined."

"By the time those fools realize they've been duped, we'll have the kingdom in our hands!"

Lysandred chuckled.

"That idiot Augustine said there'll be peace at last. Be careful what you wish for, old man!"

Serena lay in bed, tossing and turning back and forth. It was a good thing that she was having trouble sleeping…

Just as she was about to finally fall asleep, an explosion jolted her awake. Before she could comprehend the situation, the captain of the guard burst in, Shauna right behind him.

"Sir Wikstrom, what's going on?"

"We're under attack, Princess! You need to come with us."

"But-"

Shauna wasn't taking her hesitation, and forcibly yanked her from her bed.

"There's no time! Just grab some clothes and run."

Still confused, Serena quickly changed and grabbed some lighter wear. Before they left, she made sure to grab Eevee's Pokeball and the strange cube.

"Alright, let's go."

Wikstrom took the lead, guiding them through the castle hallways until…

"Well, well, well! Looks like it's my lucky night…"

Just before they could make it to the front gate, an enemy soldier stood in their way.

"Don't worry Princess, I'm not going to kill you. Boss wants you alive! Your friends, though…"

Shauna was about to move, but Wikstrom stopped her.

"I'll handle this. You two go."

"But-"

"NOW!"

"Obstagoon, get them!"

"Go, Scizor!"

Obstagoon tried to hit them with a Night Slash, only for Scizor to emerge from his Pokeball (Legends Arceus style) to block him while Wikstrom charged forward, the enemy barely having time to raise his sword in defense as he was pushed away, creating an opening.

"GO!"

Serena was frozen in fear, so Shauna grabbed her hand and ran.

"We'll remember your bravery, Sir Wikstrom!"

With that, the two disappeared around the corner, Wikstrom slashing his opponent away. He didn't have any time to rest, because more soon rounded the corner, each with their own Pokemon.

"Scizor, I won't force you to stay and fight. If you wish to save yourself, know that I won't hold it against you."

Scizor shook his head. He was seeing this through to the end, like a true knight. Wikstrom nodded solemnly.

"Thank you, my friend. Now, let's do this!"

With one final battlecry, Wikstrom and Scizor charged, ready to meet their destiny.

That was the last anyone saw of them.

They reached the throneroom, dodging falling rubble as they ran. The minute she saw her mother and father, Serena ran into their arms.

"Mom, dad, what's happening?"

"It was a setup!" Her father snarled. "Lysandre never intended a peaceful solution, he just wants power! I can't believe I fell for his lies…"

"We all did, dear," Grace soothed. "Now's not the time to play the blame game."

"We need to go, now!" Shauna said, but the king shook his head.

"No, you and Serena need to run. We'll stay here and buy you time."

"You can't! Dad, he'll kill you!"

"I need to try! I'm the king, I can't take this invasion lying down."

"I'll stay too, dear," his wife agreed.

"Then so am I!"

"No Serena, you need to go. You're the future of our kingdom, if he gets you…"

"But I can't-"

"THIS IS NOT UP FOR DISCUSSION!"

Serena recoiled in shock at her father's outburst. He'd never shouted before. After a deep breath, he continued in a much more compassionate tone.

"Please Serena, I'll feel much better if you're safe."

"But…But…"

"Please, don't make this harder than it has to be."

Shauna took her by the arm.

"Serena, we don't have time to argue!"

Realizing she was right, Serena gave her parents one last big hug.

"I love you…please, don't die."

"I'll do what I must to keep our people safe," King Augustine said with a sigh.

"We love you too, dear."

After Serena reluctantly pulled away, they turned to Shauna.

"Keep her safe, Shauna. She's all we have."

"I'll guard her with my life, you have my word!"

Shauna was about to turn and run, but the king stopped her, grabbing her into a big hug and whispering something.

"I should've let her be happy…you would've made a great daughter-in-law."

Shauna blushed, but quickly ran out with Serena, just as Lysandre burst in.

"I should've known you weren't looking for peace."

Lysandre chuckled.

"Oh, there'll be peace. Once I have both kingdoms under my fist."
"Not if I have anything to say about it. Garchomp, I choose you!"

"Gyarados, go! Use Aqua Tail!"

A giant Gyarados sped forward, wrapping their tail around Garchomp, constricting his movements.

"Dragon Claw!"

Garchomp began slashing at Gyarados, the Water Type having trouble keeping his grip on him. At long last, Garchomp was free, but he didn't let up with the slashes.

"Icy Wind, Gyarados!"

Gyarados blasted Garchomp with a wave of cold wind, forcing him away.

"Now use Ice Beam!"

"Dragon Pulse!"

Despite the heavy hit he'd taken, Garchomp quickly recovered, firing off his attack at the same time Gyarados fired its own. The two clashed for a brief moment before breaking away and hitting their respective targets, forcing Garchomp to his knees.

"I must admit, you're more resilient than I gave you credit for."

"You didn't think I'd just sit by and let you take over my kingdom, did you?"

Lysandre chuckled.

"Well, I guess I had to test this out at some point…"

Augustine's eyes widened when Lysandre pulled out a metallic ring.

"No…that's a myth!"

"Is it?"

Unfortunately for the King of Kalos, it wasn't. With the press of the ring's center, Gyarados was enveloped in an aura of pure energy. When it died down, his fins were much larger, and his fangs were sharper.

"Mega Evolution…" King Augusitne whispered. "How did you-"

"Don't worry, you won't need to think about it for much longer. Or anything, for that matter."

Despite knowing they were fighting a losing battle, Sycamore wasn't ready to give up.
"Garchomp…can you still fight?"

Despite how tired he was, Garchomp refused to let his liege face this alone, and stood as tall as he could.

"Chomp!"

"Thank you, my friend. Now let's do this!"

In the distance, Serena and Shauna had barely made it out alive, and were racing into the forest on Serena's Rhyhorn.

"Do you think anyone else made it out?" Serena asked desperately. Despite her better judgement, Shauna took a look back at the castle, smoke rising out of the crumbling fortress.

"Don't look back, Serena. Don't look back…"

Chapter Text

They rode for hours, not stopping until they were deep in the Vanville Forest. By then, the sun was beginning to rise, but they were far too tired to take in its beauty.

"My mother…my father…they're…they're…"
Shauna said nothing, she just hugged Serena tight as she cried into her shoulder.

"It's okay, we'll avenge them."

"How?"

"I don't know, but we will…"

A while later, Shauna got a fire going, and were eating some of the few provisions they had managed to grab before they fled. Well, Shauna was eating, as was Bulbasaur and Eevee. Serena…not so much.

"You should eat something, Serena. You need to keep your strength up."

But Serena kept silent.

"Vee," Eevee whimpered, nudging her foot.

"Serena?"

"What does it matter?" Serena said at last, her voice broken. "Mom's dad, Dad's dead, my kingdom is in shambles. What good will one bowl of mush do me?"

"Princess-"

"I'M NOT YOUR PRINCESS ANYMORE!" Serena shouted, making everyone jump. "Don't you get it? WE. LOST! There is no Kalos anymore, it's all Galar now! It's only a matter of time before they find us, and then it's over! I'm no Princess, so don't bother."

Serena doubled over, tears pouring out of her as she shook.

"Serena…"

"I'm a failure. I should have fought to the end to protect my people, yet here I am hiding in the woods! I'm a coward, a failure, and I don't deserve to be called a Princess! So please, just drop it."

Shuana said nothing. She just got up, walked over to her…

And slapped her so hard she fell over. Serena was so stunned she couldn't speak, allowing Shauna to vent.

"You think you're the only one who's lost people? People they cared about? My father was there! He was in the King's Guard, he was on the front lines! He died so YOU could get away, and now you're just going to throw in the towel? I guess you're not the princess after all, because no child of my king would be such a coward!"

With a huff, Shauna sat back down and went back to eating.

"If you want to feel sorry for yourself, fine. But I am NOT going to sit back and let you disgrace the sacrifices that have been made to keep you safe. So either start eating or I'll stuff it down your throat!"

Serena fell silent, but picked up her portions and began eating. Shauna sighed, not really satisfied but confident she got through, and resumed eating as well.

Later, the sun was beginning to set, and the two of them were exhausted. Between them, they had only gotten less than 2 hours of sleep. They had been too busy running, or too scared of being found to stay asleep for long. But eventually, the need for sleep won out, and they set up their tent.

"It's no castle suite, but it'll keep us safe from the elements," Shauna said. Serena nodded.

"Shauna, I'm…I'm sorry."

"Pardon?"

"You're right, I was being selfish. So many people have risked their lives to protect mine, and here I am feeling sorry for myself. I'm sorry for your father, he was a brave man."

Shauna nodded.

"I'm sorry too. I didn't want to hit you, but I couldn't sit by and watch you beat yourself up over things that you had no control over."

Serena smiled sadly.

"I know, I…I just wish things had gone differently."

"So do I, but we shouldn't despair yet. We got out, and I'm certain we're not the only ones. We can find people, we can build an army, and we can end this madness."

"Right."

"Oh, and you should try to smile more. You have a beautiful smile."

Serena turned her head, trying to hide the blush on her face. Fortunately for her, Shauna was too busy putting the finishing touches on their shelter to notice.

"Well, that should do for the night!"

"Great, I'm exhausted!"

But as Shauna looked through the supplies, her face fell.

"Um, we have a problem…"
"What's wrong?"

"Well, there's two of us…and only one sleeping bag."

"Oh…"

"You get some rest, I'll take the first watch," Shauna said.

"No, you're as tired as I am! I'll take the first watch."

"Serena, I-"

This went on for several minutes, but in the end they still had no answer for their dilemma, and wound up even more tired.

"Now what?"

"Well…" Serena said at last. "There is…one option…"

"Why didn't you mention it sooner?"

"Well…we could share it…"

"Sh-Share it? You mean…sleep together?"

"Well, only in the literal sense…"

"I don't know…"

"It's the only way either of us are going to get any sleep. If we huddle together, we'll fit. It may not be the most comfortable, but it's better than nothing."
Despite her reservations, Shauna nodded.

"Alright. Bulbasaur, eevee, will you two keep watch?"

"Bulba Bulbasaur!"

"Eevee!"

Content that they would be safe for the night, Serena and Shauna settled in. As Serena said, it was a snug fit, but it would have to do.

"Goodnight, Shauna."

"Goodnight…Serena."

With that, the two fell asleep, content that for the moment they would be safe.

(Lumiose Castle)

Lysandre stood in the throne room, staring down at the city below.

"Your highness, Lady Bea is here to see you."

"Let her in."

The guard stepped aside, allowing a white haired knight step in, the woman taking a knee at the edge of the throne.

"My king, you sent for me."

"Dame Bea, the first woman to enter the service of the knights. Many times have you proven yourself an asset to my army. Which is why I have a most important mission for you."

"I am ready to serve in any way necessary."

Lysandre smiled, then continued.

"As you can see, our invasion of Kalos was a complete success. The king and queen are dead, and our reign is all but cemented."

"But?"

"But Princess Serena, the heir to the throne, has escaped, with a very important part of our plan. Alone, she is of no threat to us. But she is loved by her people, and could form a resistance."

"You wish me to kill her."

"Tempting, but no. Not yet, at least. In order to make our conquest complete, she must be married to Alain."

"Where is the Prince?"

"Missing, no doubt searching for his fiance as well. Which leads me to your secondary mission: bring him home. His heart is in the right place, but I fear he has grown too fond of the people here. But understand that SHE is the number one priority, I have others searching for him"

"Understood. I promise not to return without The Princess."

"Good, you are dismissed."

Bea bowed once more, then took her leave, leaving the king to his thoughts.

"Soon, everything will be mine…"

Chapter Text

The two got an early start the next morning, not stopping until they reached the edge of a small town.

"Vanville Town," Shauna mused as they eyed it from the top of a hill. "A small, quiet place. We should be safe to hide out here for a few days."

"Great! I could use an actual bed to sleep in."

"Not so fast," Shauna interrupted. "We don't know for sure how fast word has spread. We can't have you going down there looking like that."

"This is all I have, though. And don't pretend like you have clothes to spare."

Shauna bit her lip in frustration. Serena was right, their options were limited. Scanning the landscape, she saw a small farmhouse in the distance, far away from the town proper.

"I have an idea, but you're not going to like it…"

"What part of any of this am I going to enjoy?"

"Fair enough."

Dianne hummed as she pinned the clothes to the line, leaving them to dry in the sun. It was hard work, but as necessary as harvesting the crops.

"Dianne dear, are you done yet?" Her husband called.

"Almost, Ramos love," she called back. "I just have to make sure it's just right."

Ramos chuckled, and shook his head.

"Honey, if you spend any longer, the dinner will be burnt!"

"Oh? Would you rather have sopping wet, wrinkled clothes for a week? Or would you rather deal with burnt roast for one night?"

"Alright, you've made your point."

At last, Dianne finished setting the line, and headed inside.

"Alright, let's get my hungry farmer fed."

"Thank the lord, I'm starving!"

"Yes, so you've said…"

The minute the door was shut, Shauna and Serena peered over the fence.

"Are you sure this is a good idea?"

"No, but it's the only choice we've got."

"Can't we just talk to them? I'm sure once they see that I'm the princess of Kalos they'll be willing to help us."

Shauna shook her head.

"What reason would the Princess of Kalos have to ask for their clothes? We don't know these people, or their values. For all we know, they could be spies. Or even if they aren't, they wouldn't want to risk their own safety and will turn us out. Or worse, sell us out to the nearest guard troop for a reward!"

Serena just gave her a weird look.

"You're making a lot of assumptions about people we don't know."

Shauna took a deep breath. Serena was right, but this needed to be done.

"Look, I don't like this either, and maybe they would help us. But right now, I don't know who I can trust, and I can't risk your safety on blind faith. Once this mess is settled, we'll bring the clothes back, deal?"

"...Okay."

"Good, now come on."

Sprinting like mad, the two dashed across the field, yanking as much clothes as they could while still leaving a few for their unwilling donors before dashing back, jumping the fence and running as far away as they could.

"This feels wrong…"

"I know. I hope it never feels right."

Once they were a good distance away, they stopped to rest and change their clothes. Unfortunately for them, the clothes were not well fitting.

"Perhaps we should've made sure the clothes were fit for someone our age," Serena said as she struggled to keep the farmer's shirt from slipping down.

"Beggars can't be choosers, I suppose," Shauna sighed. "Here, why don't we change?"

But Serena shook her head.

"I can pass for a boy easier than you can. I just need to borrow a hair tie."

Shauna nodded, and handed one over. With a little effort, Serena managed to pull her hair into a ponytail.

"How do I look?"

"Like you should be in a tavern drinking until you pass out."

"Good! Now let's go."

A while later, the two had made it into town, but they were met with a very unwelcome sight: guards, everywhere. Not Kalos guards either, Galar guards.

"Guess stealing was the right idea," Serena said, though she was far from happy about it. Shauna wasn't either, but she knew now wasn't the time to dwell on it.

"Just follow my lead. Keep your head down, and try not to draw attention to yourself."

Serena nodded, and taking her hand followed Shauna through the market square. A few people cast them a few odd looks, but they just kept moving. Suddenly…

"Hey, you, halt!"

The two stopped instantly, trying not to flinch as a guard approached them.

"Seems like you two are in need of new clothes."

"Yes!" Shauna answered quickly. "We are. Alas, our parents can't afford new wool very often. Not many Gogoats where we live, you know how it is. Actually, we're on our way to Couramine Town to barter for new ones!"

"I see," the guard said cautiously. "My apologies, but there's been thieves in the area. A local farmer and his wife's clothes were stolen while they were distracted."

"All this just for some clothes? Seems a bit much, doesn't it?"

"Ordinarily yes, but the farmer had a golden pocket knife in one of the pockets. It was an heirloom from his father, and he wants it returned."

Serena had to force herself not to check all the pockets. She could instantly feel it, and prayed they didn't search her. Luckily, Shauna was much more calm and collected.

"Well, we'll keep an eye out for them!"

"Please do. Have a safe journey."

"We will, thank you!"

And Shauna led Serena past the guards. The guard was just about to return to his normal patrol when he caught a glimpse of Serena's hair. The hair tie Shauna had given her was coming loose, and finally gave way, revealing her long hair.

"Halt!"

Serena gasped as she was roughly yanked back, Shauna's grasp on her hand slipping.

"I don't think this young man is a man at all. In fact, I think he's.."

With a yank, he pulled off Serena's shirt, revealing the skirt she had been wearing underneath.

"...Just the Princess we were looking for! You're coming with us!"

Serena wasn't going to give up that easily, wiggling one hand free to bring her fingers to her mouth and whistle.

"What are you-"

Just then, Rhydon came rushing in from his hiding spot outside the village, throwing the guards off of Serena and Shauna as the two climbed aboard.

"Thanks for the save, Rhydon," Shauna said as she patted his face, making him smile. "Now, yip yip!"

Rhydon charged away, a few of the guards firing arrows at him as he ran, only to bounce off his heavy skin.

"That was close!"
"Yeah. Shauna?"

"Yes?"

"I don't think we'll be able to return those clothes now."

Chapter Text

Shauna and Serena didn't stop running until they were far, far away from the village. They had no idea if they were being pursued or not, but they couldn't take the chance. But even a Pokemon as fast and as strong as Rhyhorn couldn't run forever, and they were eventually forced to stop so he could catch his breath.

"Horn," the Pokemon whimpered, collapsing in exhaustion. Serena smiled, and gently stroked his head.

"You did more than enough, Rhyhorn. Thank you for your loyalty."

Rhyorn smiled, and gently nuzzled her. Shauna looked up at the sky, taking note of how low the sun was.

"It'll be dark soon. I'll go get some firewood."

"Do you need any help?"

"I should be fine. You guys get some rest."

Serena nodded, and Shauna headed off into the woods. Serena then turned to their steed.

"How about a bath? You deserve a reward."

Rhyhorn smiled, and happily grunted.

"Alright then, let's get you clean!"

An hour later, Shauna still hadn't returned. Trying to keep her mind off the possibilities, Serena kept herself busy scrubbing Rhyhorn clean until he forced her to stop. Now she was occupied staring at the knife they had stolen, twirling it in her hands as her thoughts raced. Luckily, Shauna soon returned, and she raced over to her.

"Are you alright? I thought you'd been attacked, or captured, or…"

Shauna shook her head.

"I'm fine, I promise! I found the firewood, but then I found some plants I thought would give us something different to eat. But I wasn't sure if they were edible, so…"

"Just don't scare me like that again, okay? I've lost too many people that I care about…"

"I won't, I promise. Now come on, let's get cooking!"

"Sounds good to me!"

Soon they had a roaring fire, and their stew was simmering nicely. As Shauna stirred the pot, she caught a glance at the knife in Serena's hands.

"Serena, you're not…"

Serena was finally snapped out of her thoughts, and quickly realized what Shauna was hinting at.

"No, no, I swear I wasn't! I was just thinking about…cutting my hair."

"Cutting your hair?"

Serena nodded.

"But why? It's so beautiful."

"We almost died because the hair tie slipped! If Rhyhorn hadn't been nearby, I don't even want to think about what would happen. If we're going to make this work, I need to be able to blend in. So I'm going to do it."

Shauna sighed. When the princess had set her mind to something, nothing could change it.

"Well, at least let me do it for you. I don't think cutting your own hair with a knife is such a good idea."

"Shauna, I promise I'm not going to hurt myself. I'd do it with a pair of scissors if we had any, but we don't."

"Not intentionally, I believe that. But if you cut too close in the back where you can't see as easily…"

Serena considered the argument for a minute, then handed her the knife.

"Alright, but be careful."

Once she made sure the stew wouldn't boil over, Shauna got to work. First she would collect a clump of hair, then she'd carefully saw through it with the knife until it came off. Then she'd toss it aside and repeat. Once she had finished at the back, she turned her attention to the sides and front. Every now and then she'd need to stop to stir their dinner, but then it was right back to work until an hour later she was done.

"Well? What do you think?"

Serena stepped over to the nearby pond, and stared at her reflection, soaking in her new look. Her hair was much shorter, almost boyish, with some cute bangs at the front.

"I know I'm not the royal stylist, so it's a little patchy, but…"

"I love it!"

"Really?"

"Really! I might keep this look after everything is said and done. You're amazing, thank you!"

And before she knew it, Shauna was being pulled into a bonecrushing hug as Serena sobbed tears of joy. Shauna smiled and returned it, happy she could make Serena smile.

"You're welcome, now let's eat."

"Sounds good to me!"

After dinner and a good night's rest, the two were wide awake the next morning, making plans.

"If a small town was willing to turn me in, then there's a good chance any place we go to is unsafe."

"But you've cut your hair, hopefully we can fool any other place."

But Serena shook her head.

"If we cut up some of my dresses to make them more gender neutral, maybe, but that won't last for long. My hair will grow back, and even if we keep cutting it we can't keep running forever."

"So what's your plan?"

"We need to leave Kalos. Alola or Hoenn is our safest option, but to get anywhere we need a boat."

"Anistar City will be the closest, but can we trust anyone to get us out of here without turning us in?"

"We have to hope."

Shauna, noticing Serena was starting to worry, smiled.

"Hey, it'll be alright! We'll make it out of this, we always do."

Serena smiled, and nodded.

"Then let's get going!"

So with a plan and destination in mind, they climbed back on Rhyhorn and set off. Despite it all, Serena couldn't help but smile

"You know what, Shauna?"

"What?"

"Somehow I think things are looking up for us."

Shauna giggled, and returned the smile.

"I think so too."

"You say you don't see who it was that stole from you?"

Ramos shook his head.

"No, we were busy with supper."

"I don't know why they even bothered, they were still soaking wet! I literally just put them on the line to dry."

Bea hummed in thought.

"I see. And you say that there was something of value stolen as well?"

"My golden pocket knife, yes. Truthfully, I wouldn't have even bothered to report this, but it was a family heirloom. It's worth more than anything else I own."

"Then why was it in your pocket and not somewhere safe, like I've told you a hundred times?"

"I forgot!"

"Don't worry sir," Bea said at last. "We'll find it, you have my word."

"I don't want to press charges, ma'am. I just want my knife back."

"Understood."

With everything she needed, Bea departed, just as her squire came riding up.

"Anything to report, Allister?"

"Well, um…the guards in the town reported that The Princess and her servant were spotted in town with the stolen property…"

"Excellent. That means they haven't gotten far."

"Sis…do we have to? We've won, why do we have to hunt them?"

Bea sighed, and knelt down to hug him.

"Because King Lysandre wants them brought in, and we owe him so much. He's told me to bring them in alive, though. I'm sure he'll show them mercy."

"Ok…I just wish we didn't have to."

"I know, buddy. Me too."

Chapter Text

Shauna and Serena travelled all day, stopping only once midday for food and water and only for a few minutes. They were tired and scared, but they knew they couldn't afford to rest for long. By now, surely the entire kingdom would be on the lookout for them, and they couldn't trust who was friend or foe.

Now, the sun was sitting low in the sky. Night would be approaching soon, and they still had no way out of the seemingly ending forest. Not that they were complaining, though. The more forest there was, the less of a chance of running into the enemy.

"Anistar should be a day away at this rate, " Shauna said as she read the map.

"Good. The sooner we can get on a boat, the better."

Suddenly, Rhyhorn came to a stop, putting them both on edge.

"What's wrong, Rhyhorn?"

Shauna scanned the trees for danger, where she spotted several shapes darting across branches.

"We've got company. Bulbasaur, Razor Leaf!"

"Eevee, Swift!"

The two Pokemon launched their attacks into the trees, the suspicious people jumping off the branch just before it exploded into sticks.

"Frogadier, use Bubble!"

The enemy Pokemon, a small blue frog-like Pokemon, launched a flurry of bubbles at them. The attack didn't faze Eevee or Bulbasaur much damage, but the choice of Pokemon did convince Serena who their attacker was.

"Sanpei, wait! It's me, Serena!"

"And Shauna, Shauna's here too!"

The ninja stopped, examining them for a minute before waving to his companions in the trees.

"Guys, stop! It's The Princess and her Lady in Waiting, we can trust them!"

A small army of ninjas dropped from the trees, instantly making both women glad that they had wandered into friendly territory.

"Sorry about that," Sanpei said, turning back to the outsiders with a sheepish grin. "We got attacked by the Galarian army."

"Oh dear! Is everyone alright?"

"We've managed to fend them off, but where there's one there's more. But I'm sure the king will be happy to send reinforcements, right?"

Serena began to cry, telling Sanpei all he needed to know.

"Oh, Serena, I…"

"It's…It's fine. We just…"

"Can we stay for a while?"

"I'll have to ask Gurkin, but I'm sure you can at least stay the night. Come, let's go. It's not safe after the sun sets."

Sanpei led the group deeper into the forest, before coming to a cave. Grabbing a torch, he led them through the dark, narrow cave systems.

"I don't mean to sound rude, but are we there yet?"

"Almost," Sanpei replied. A few minutes later, Sanpei stopped, stepping aside to allow Serena and Shauna to see their new home. "Welcome to the Shalour Clan."

Serena was aware that the clan was large, but she had never expected there to be so many of them. Everywhere she looked, she saw ninjas.

"Whoa."

"I've never seen so many ninjas before…"

Sanpei chuckled.

"Well, that's the idea, isn't it?"

"Oh…yeah."

"Come on, Master Gurkin is up ahead."

The trio moved through the caverns, guided by the torchlight. After a long trek, they reached the main cave, where a wise shogun awaited them, along with someone very familiar to both of them.

"Princess, Shauna, long time no see!"

Serena laughed as she hugged her friend.

"Korrina, how many times do I have to tell you not to call me that?"

"I don't know, I guess as many times as I have called you that!"

Despite Korrina's snarky attitude, Serena was glad to see a friendly face.

"How's your training going?"

"It's tough, but when the going gets tough, the tough gets going!"

"Ahem."

Korrina chuckled, and let go of her friend.

"Sorry, grandfather."

"Lord Gurkin, it's good to see you again."

"Likewise, Princes. But I get the feeling that this is not just a cordial visit."

Serena sighed.

"No."

"I see. Please, join us for dinner and we can discuss it. You two look like you've been on the road for quite a while."

Fortunately, dinner was served quickly, and the two told Gurkin and Korrina all about what had happened.

"You poor things," Korrina sympathized. "You're lucky to have gotten away."

"You have my sympathy," Gurkin agreed. "Your father was a great leader, and a true friend."

"Thank you."

"Though that does explain why we've seen more soldiers from Galar recently," he continued.

"Sanpei said you've been under attack," Shauna added.

"Increasingly so, yes. But my ninja students are more than a match for their head on tactics."

"So why don't we join forces!" Korrina shouted. "We can take back the capitol in no time if we-"

"No"

"Grandfather?"

Gherkin shook his head.

"I'm sorry, I truly am. But as skilled as my disciples are, they stand no chance against the full Galar army."

"But grandfather, we've fought them off thus far!"

"Thus far, yes. But those were only small squads with no real formation, not an entire army. I'm sorry, but I can't risk the safety of my people for such a reckless endeavor."

"But…But…"

Before Korrina could continue, Serena interrupted her.

"I understand, Lord Gurkin. I couldn't ask you to do so, anyway. Truthfully, Shauna and I don't plan on staying here for much longer. We intend to find a sailor to get us out of the region and seek help from our allies in Alola. That being said, we're low on supplies, and we could use a good night's rest. If you'd be willing to allow us to stay for a few days and lend us some food and water, we'll get out of your hair."

Gurkin nodded.

"That I can help you with. Sanpei, could you please show our guests their accommodations?"

"Yes, sir!"

Sanpei led Serena and Shauna down a tunnel, leaving Korrina and her grandfather alone. Gurkin sighed, knowing full well what was coming.

"I know what you're going to say-"

"HOW COULD YOU?"

"Korrina-"

"Our region is in the hands of a madman, and you're just going to sit here and do nothing?"

"I can't risk the safety of you or anyone else! If we try to take back Lumiose, we'll be wiped out!"

"And you think being neutral will keep us safe? Once Lysandre finds out who's been attacking his squads, he'll take the fight here!"

"ENOUGH! We can't help them, and that's final. Now GO!"

Korrina scowled, but walked away, but not before one final remark.

"And here I thought Ninjas weren't afraid to get their hands dirty."

"Korrina."

"I'm going, I'mg going!"

Gurkin watched her huff away, closing his eyes in thought.

"Stubborn, just like her father."

The duo stayed for three days, allowing themselves to relax for the first time since they fled Lumiose City. They got a good night's rest, some fresh food, and even an extra sleeping back and change of clothes. But they knew it would only be a matter of time before Galar attacked again, so they thought it was best to move on.

"Thanks for going with us, Sanpei," Shauna said as he helped them load up Rhyhorn.

"Lord Gurkin may not be willing to help, but I can't let you leave without some protection!"

"Got room for four?"

The trio were surprised to see Korrina running up behind them.

"Korrina? But what about your grandfather?"

"Yes, what about me?"

Korrina flinched when her grandfather approached, but stood her ground.

"Maybe you're not willing to take risks, but I am! They're my friends, and-"

"I didn't come to stop you."

Korrina flinched.

"What?"

Gurkin smiled, and hugged her.

"Yes, I worry for your safety, but a ninja must always follow their heart. Beyond that, I've taught you all I know. It's up to you and Riolu to reach further heights on your own."

Korrina smiled, and hugged her grandfather.

"I love you."

"I love you too. But don't think I'm letting you go empty handed!"

He reached into his pocket and produced two bracelets and two strange stones, handing one each to Shauna and Korrina.

"What are these?"

"Something to help you and your partners reach new heights."

Neither fully understood, but trusting his wisdom accepted the gifts.

"Thank you."

"Thank you, grandfather."

"Be careful, you four. There are more dangers out there than just Galar."

WIth that, the four set off for Anistar City, hoping to find the help they needed. Gurkin watched them leave, his face grim.

"Good luck, you'll need it."

Chapter Text

The sun slowly rose over Kalos, yet the quartet were already wide awake and alert. As it turned out, Rhyhorn wasn't big or strong enough to carry all of them and their supplies, but Korrina and Sanpei didn't mind.

"We'll just give you support from the trees!"

"Are you sure?"

"Trust me, a ninja is most at home in the trees!"

And so it was decided. Shauna and Serena rode on Rhyhorn, with Korrina and Sanpei running ahead of them to scope out the area ahead. Thus far they'd had no incidents, but they knew they couldn't relax just yet.

"We haven't heard from the others in a while, I hope they're alright," Shauna said, but Serena wasn't worried.

"They're more than capable of taking care of themselves. I'm sure they're just fine."

"Um, guys? A little help, please?"

Serena and Shauna were very surprised to see their protectors in front of them, suspended in a net.

"How'd this happen?"

"Well, we had to retreat to the ground to take a rest, and…"

"And SOMEONE wasn't paying attention to where he was stepping and set off a trap!"

"I said I was sorry!"

Korrina huffed.

"Some ninja…"

"Alright, alright," Serena said with an amused smile. "Stop fighting, I'll get you down."

"Wait, watch where you step! There maybe more-"

TWANG!

"...Traps."

Sure enough, Serena was caught just as easily, the pocket knife slipping from her hands.

"Well, that's just great."

"Do you think it was the Galar army?"

"Please, they wouldn't bother putting up a trap. They'd just charge at you, sword ready to kill."

"So who'd bother to set up these traps?

"Oh my, I'm so sorry about this!"

A blonde haired boy, no older than them, came running up.

"These traps were meant for catching food, not humans!"

Moving carefully, he stepped over his other traps to cut them down.

"Again, so sorry! I guess my traps work a lot better than I thought."

Serena smiled, and shook her head.

"It's alright, no one was hurt."

"Still, I should have been more careful. Please, let me make it up to you with some food."

"Oh, you don't have to do that!"

"I insist, it's the least I can do."

Before anyone could argue, their stomachs rumbled.

"Well, I guess it couldn't hurt to have a quick breakfast."

"But only a quick one! We really can't stay in any one place for long."

"Deal! Come along, my house isn't too far. My name's Clemont, by the way."

"I'm Sam, and this is Shauna, Sanpei, and Korrina."

"It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Likewise."

Clemont's house was more of a shack, but it was large enough for them to stand comfortably, so none of them complained.

"Sorry for the mess," Clemont said as they stumbled through his workshop. " I'm always working on new gadgets and what not, but I'm not the most organized."

Once they reached the kitchen, he set to work making them breakfast. It wasn't much, just some soup, but it was enough for his guests.

"Sorry I don't have much more. I set those traps to catch some meat, but…well, you know."

"It's fine, really. You've done more than enough."

"Big brother?"

Everyone's attention was on a little girl who appeared in the doorway.

"Who are these people?"

Clemont momentarily paused his serving of food to go over to his little sister, gently guiding her back to bed.

"It's okay, Bonnie. These are just some people I inconvenienced, so I'm making it up to them with some food. What are you doing out of bed? You know you need to rest."

"I had a bad dream. Can you read me a bedtime story?"

"Sure, Bonnie. Just go get comfortable, and I'll be up there once I help these nice people."

"Ok."

Once Bonnie was out the door, Clemont turned back to his guests.

"Sorry about that."

"Is she your little sister?"

"Yeah."

"Is she alright? She looked a little pale."

Clemont sighed.

"She's sick."

"Oh my! Will she be alright?"

"It's…not looking good. I haven't told her, but the doctors say the cure for her condition doesn't exist."

"Oh my!"

"How long…"

"A few months, at best. All I can do is make her last days as comfortable as I can."

"Oh Clemont…"

Before the discussion could go any further, there was a loud banging from the front door.

"Open up! Official business."

Serena, Shauna, Sanpei, and Korrina froze when they caught a glance at the visitors from the window.

"Galar."

"This is bad."

Clemont frowned.

"You guys stay in here, I'll deal with them."

"Be careful."

Clemont, despite his fear, calmly opened the door, coming face to face with Bea.

"May I help you?"

"I apologize for disturbing you, but perhaps you can help me with something."

"I can try."

Bea produced two wanted posters, one of Serena and one of Shauna.

"I'm on the search for Princess Serena and her Lady in Waiting Shauna."

"Why would the Princess of Kalos be on the run?"

"She was due to be married to Prince Alain, but ran away the night before their wedding. The King and Queen are worried about her, and have asked me to find her."

"I see. I'm sorry, but I haven't seen them. I don't get too many visitors in these parts of the woods."

Bea stared him down for a minute, before nodding.

"I see. Sorry to bother you, we'll be on our way."

With that, she and her group turned and walked away, allowing Clemont to close the door. Once he heard their Rapidash riding away, he turned his attention back to his guests.

"So, Princess. Is there something you'd like to tell me?"

Serena flinched.

"How'd you know?"

"It was just a hunch until right now."

Serena sighed.

"It's not that I wanted to lie to you, it's just-"

Clemont held up his hand.

"I'm not bothered by that, I'm sure whatever your reason is it's valid. But if what you're trying to accomplish puts my sister in danger, I suggest you tell me now."

Serena explained the entire situation to them, from the invasion to being forced to disguise herself to their plan to flee to Alola for support. Clemont listened carefully, not interrupting once. When she was done, he pushed up his glasses to speak.

"Well then, I think we can help each other out here."

"How?"

"Because I was on my way to Anistar City myself to buy some new tools and medicine for Bonnie. It's another week by foot, but with my Luxio-powered cart it should take less than a day."

"Really? You'd be willing to risk your life to help us?"

"On one condition: Bonnie and I go with you. If I'm going to lose her, then I want to show her the world before I do."

Serena smiled.

"It's a deal!"

"Good. We should leave tomorrow, so that we won't run into those soldiers on the way."

Later that evening, Clemont told Bonnie the news.

"Really? You mean I get to see Alola?"

Clemont nodded.

"A change of scenery will help you, doctor's orders!"

"Wow! I can't wait! Can you picture it, Dedenne?"

"Ne!"

Clemont chuckled, and tucked her into bed.

"Get some rest, we're leaving bright and early."

"Ok. I love you, big brother."

"I love you too."

With that, Bonnie drifted off to sleep. Clemont got up, and left her room. Once the door was closed behind him, he let out a deep sigh.

"Oh, Bonnie."

Serena offered a kind hand on his shoulder.

"I'm sorry, this isn't fair."

"No, it's not. I've already lost my parents, I shouldn't have to lose her too! It should be me, not her!"

Serena pulled him into a kind hug, allowing him to cry into her shoulder.

"It should be me…"

Chapter Text

Everyone was up bright and early the next morning, getting ready for the big move.

"Big brother, is it alright if I go play in the woods?"

"Alright Bonnie, but don't go too far, we'll be leaving soon."

"Ok!"

"Is it a good idea to let her go off on her own?" Korrina whispered as she wandered off. But Clemont just smiled.

"She knows not to go beyond shouting distance."

"But considering her condition…"

"She'll be fine. She knows what her limits are. Best to just let her enjoy what time she has left…"

Bonnie carefully climbed over stumps, fallen branches, and logs. It was slow going given her condition, but she didn't mind. She was just happy to be in the natural wonder of the forest.

"I'd better head back," she thought at last. "Clemont will want to leave soon."

But just as she was about to turn around, she spotted something unusual. A tiny green creature, not like any Pokemon she had ever seen, was cowering underneath a leaf. She almost hadn't seen it, it was so small.

"Hi there, little guy! I've never seen a Pokemon like you before."

The creature backed away from her, but Bonnie persisted.

"It's okay, I won't hurt you! My name's Bonnie."

The creature, sensing she wasn't going to hurt it, cautiously approached. Seeing her kind smile, they realized they weren't in any harm, and carefully slithered up her arm.

"Aw, you're so cute!"

With a cute chirp, the creature nuzzled against her cheek as she pet them on the head.

"And so squishy, too! I think I'll call you Squishy, do you like that?"

Squishy chirped, and nodded happily.

"Alright! Come on, we need to get going. Big brother will want to leave soon, but I'm sure he won't mind another one coming along for the ride."

With that, the two made their way back to Clemont's house. But they didn't get far before Bonnie had to stop, doubling over into a coughing fit, much to Squishy's concern. This went on for several minutes, followed by a minute for Bonnie to recover

"Sorry, I'm not well."

"Squish."

Bonnie sighed.

"Well, to be honest with you…I'm dying."

Squishy reacted in horror.

"Clemont thinks I don't know, but it wasn't hard to figure out. None of the medicine I take has any effect, and I just seem to get worse. I don't know how much time I have left, but it can't be more than a year."

Squishy whimpered, and nuzzled her cheek.

"Oh, it's okay! There's nothing I can do about it, so there's no point being sad about it! That's why I've decided to live every day to the fullest."

"Bonnie! I thought you were hurt, are you alright?"

Clemont and Serena came running up.

"I'm fine, just a coughing fit."

"When you didn't show up, we thought something happened! You know I told you not to wander off."

"I do know, and I promise I was on my way back when you said. But then I saw this little guy needed help, and I just couldn't leave him alone."

Clemont sighed, and pulled her into a hug.

"It's alright, I'm just glad you're safe."

"Can I keep him, please? I'll take good care of him, I promise!"

Clemont bent down to examine Squishy.

"Curious. I've never seen a Pokemon like this before."

"I named him Squishy!"

Curious, Serena stepped closer to examine Squishy.

"Well, he certainly is cute!"

Squishy smiled as she pet him. Suddenly, the cube in Serena's bag began to glow.

"Huh?"

Taking it out, she could only watch in awe as Squishy was sucked into the cube.

"Whoa!"

"I didn't think that would happen!"

"Release Squishy, now!"

"Easy, Bonnie. I'm sure Serena didn't mean to."

Serena, meanwhile, was busy studying her prized possession with newfound wonder.

"How odd, it's never done anything like this before. I thought it was just a pretty bracelet…"

"Miss Serena? Can you please let Squishy out?"

Serena, after a minute of fiddling, managed to release Squishy, who was no worse for wear.

"Sorry, Squishy," Serena said. Squishy, for their part, simply shook off the event, and hopped back onto Bonnie's shoulder.

"Well? Can I keep him?"

Clemont smiled, and chuckled.

"After all of that, how can I say no?"

A few minutes later, everything was ready to go. Serena, Shauna, Korrina, and Sanpei were hiding in the cart, Clemont's tools piled high on top of them. Clemont and Bonnie rode up front, with Luxio and Rhyhorn pulling it. Squishy, at Clemont's insistence, was hidden in Bonnie's shirt.

"Just keep quiet until we stop," Clemot told them as they squeezed into the cart. "It shouldn't be more than a few hours to Anistar City, but I don't know if we'll be passing through any checkpoints along the way."

"Right," the four agreed, and got as comfortable as they could.

"Are you ready, big brother?"

"Ready as I'll ever be," Clemont sighed, and snapped the reigns, signaling the two Pokemon it was time to depart.

The trip was long, but to the four in hiding it felt like eternity. They had little to no room to breathe, much less move. It took all of their willpower not to make any sound at all, especially when the cart hit the many bumps in the path. At last, the cart rolled to a stop. But they couldn't relax, for just as they thought Clemont was going to let them out, they heard voices. Very unfriendly voices.

"This city is under lockdown! What business do you have here?"

"Bea," Shauna whispered in fear, only to be shushed as quickly as possible. Clemont, for his part, remained calm.

"My apologies, Captain. I'm only here to sell my goods to the sailors in port."

"Your goods?"

"Yes, I'm an inventor, you see. Nothing big, mostly just traps for wild Pokemon, and simple defenses. I thought the fisherman would like to see my newest model."

"Traps, eh? Well, if that's all it is, then you won't mind if I check?"

"By all means."

Bea gestured to her men, and together they combed through the cart, pushing aside metal until they reached the false bottom hiding the stowaways. If they looked closely, they might realize the ruse. Fortunately, they did not.

"Alright, everything seems in order. Carry on, then."

"We will."

"Bye, miss! Have a nice day!"

No one dared to make a sound. But they could all tell they were mentally breathing a sigh of relief.

Bea was just about to return to her guard duty when she caught a glimpse of the cart riding towards town. It was brief, so much so that she nearly missed it, but once she saw it she chuckled.

The two of them were clever, she had to give them that. It'd take a keen eye to have spotted the speck of green poking out of the girl's shirt. Unfortunately, one does not become captain of the guard without a keen eye.

"Zygarde," she said to herself, amused by her luck. "I thought you were just a legend, but I guess all legends have some basis in truth."

She didn't know if the boy was carrying her targets or not, and truthfully she didn't care. One thing was for sure that he carried the other part of her king's plan. And she fully intended to bring it to him.

Chapter Text

Clemont drove the cart to a secluded part of town, where no one was around to spot them.

“Alright guys, the coast is clear.”

Once all of the clutter was cleared away, the four stowaways climbed out, stretching their backs out as they groaned.

“Oh man, that was terrible!” Shauna said.

“The worst place I’ve ever been, and I’ve had to sleep in trees,” Korrina added.

“Sorry, everyone,” Clemont chuckled. “Necessary precaution, I’m afraid.”

“It’s fine,” Serena said, waving off their complaints. “We can stretch our legs while we look for a way out. Rhyhorn, return!”

“You too, Luxio.”

With their belongings secure, the six made their way to the docks. As they passed, they felt the stares of weary strangers on them, Serena doing her best to blend into the crowd.

“I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”

Shauna, sensing her friend’s fear, took her hand into hers.

“It’s going to be fine.”

Serena smiled, and relaxed.

“Thanks.”

Suddenly, a figure leapt out in front of them, nearly making them scream before the stranger shushed them.

“Now’s not the place for this, follow me.”

“Who are you?”

“A friend, now come!”

“Hey, you! Stop right there!”

A squad of Galar guards spotted them and gave chase. Without much other choice, the six of them followed the mysterious stranger through back alleys until they reached her home.

“Inside,” she ushered, and they obeyed.

“Get back here!”

Once Bonnie was inside, the stranger turned to the guards chasing them. Her eyes glowed, and soon the pursuers were immobilized.

“Hey, what’s going on?”

“She’s a witch!”

The stranger said nothing, she just stared deeply into her prisoner’s eyes before they fell into her trance.

“Your targets are not in this house.”

“Our targets are not in this house.”

“You will return to your post and forget this ever happened.”

“We will return to our post and forget this ever happened.”

Satisfied, the woman closed the door, releasing the soldiers from her control.

“What’re we doing in some back alley?”

“I don’t know, but I’m starving!”

“Think there’s a good tavern in this town?”

“A backwater kingdom like this? Fat chance!”

“Shut up, both of ya! We’d better get back to base before Bea comes looking.”

“Ah, don’t tell me you’re scared of that lightweight!”

“You wanna tell her that to her face?”

“...Let’s just get back to base.”

Once they were all safe and sound, the six breathed a sigh of relief.

“That was close!”

“Too close.”

“Big brother? Can you please put me down?”

Clemont chuckled, and set Bonnie down.

“Thank you.”

At last, their host returned.

“Thank you for the save, but…”

“Who are you, and what do you want?”

The stranger chuckled, and dropped her hood.

“A friend, something I’m sure you will agree is in short supply these days.”
Serena gasped, then immediately ran into the woman’s waiting arms.

“Aunt Olympia!”

Olympia chuckled, and pulled her niece into a loving hug.

“I was worried when I heard Lumiose had fallen. Thank god you’re okay.”

“It was close, but we’re alright.”

After a long hug with her niece, Olympia turned to Shauna.

“Thank you for watching over my dear niece, Shauna. I trust that your journey has not been easy.”

“No, but we’ve made some friends along the way!”

“I’m Sanpei, ma’am.”

“Korrina, at your service.”

“I’m Clemont, and this is Bonnie.”

“Hi!”

“Anyone who’s a friend of Serena’s is welcome here. Please, make yourselves comfortable, I’ll make dinner.”

As they ate, Serena and Shauna told her all about their harrowing ordeal up until they met Korrina and Sanpei.

“Oh, you poor things! I’m sorry, if only I had convinced the king. Stubborn old fool…”

“It’s not your fault,” Korrina said.

“Yeah, it’s not like you could see the future or anything. That’s impossible!”

Olympia chuckled.

“Oh, my dear children. Impossible is just a word used to limit one’s capabilities.”

To prove her point, Olympia focused on the teapot, and lifted it into the air, brought it over to them and poured seven cups of tea, then set the pot down to, all without moving from her spot, much to everyone but her niece and Shauna’s shock.

“See what I mean?”

“Whoa, that is so cool!” Bonnie squealed.

“It’s…inconcievable,” Clemont whispered in awe. “And yet, it happened before my very eyes.”

“I’ve heard rumors, but I didn’t think they were true.”

“Can you tell the future as well?”
“I can.”

“Then why didn’t you warn the king this would happen? Surely as his sister…”

“Sister in law.”

“Whatever. Surely, you’d have some sway over him.”

Olympia sighed.

“The two of us have never got along. We made peace for the sake of my sister and niece, but truthfully I find him to be too stubborn for his own good. I tried to warn him, but he refused to listen. Said he was “a man of science, not superstition” and that he could convince Lysandre to see reason. Clearly, he was wrong.”

Olympia sighed, before turning to her niece with a sympathetic look.

“Forgive me dear, I shouldn’t speak ill of him now. As much as we disagreed, he was a good man.”

“It’s okay, Aunt Olympia,” Serena said. “We’ll avenge him, and save Kalos. But we need to get on a boat out of here first.”

“That’ll be easier said than done, I’m afraid. They’ve blockaded the harbor, it’d take a skilled captain and a lot of luck to break it.”

“Maybe,” Serena said with a slight grin. “But perhaps my favorite Aunt can point us to one capable of doing so?”

Olympia chuckled.

“Yes, I suppose I can. But please, don’t go just yet. Stay the night, I insist. If this is the last time I see you…”

“It won’t.”
“IF it’s the last time I see you, I want to make sure you’re well prepared. Let me read the future to see what happens.”

Seeing that her aunt wouldn’t let up, Serena relented.

“Ok. I guess one more night couldn’t hurt.”

Everyone got up bright and early to find Olympia meditating while levitating in her room.

“Has she been doing that all night?” Sanpei asked.

“You get used to it.”

Olympia opened her eyes, floating down to the ground to address her guests.

“Well?”

“I have seen the path you need to take, and will escort you there myself.”

“Great, let’s go!”

But Olympia held out her hand to stop them.

“Not only that, I have foreseen your individual futures. I think it would be in your best interest to hear them.”

Serena went first, while everyone else waited outside.

“The path forward is long and dangerous, but you shall prevail. Trust in your allies, and don’t lose yourself.”

Serena didn’t quite understand, but knew better than to question her Aunt’s cryptic words of wisdom, so bowed and left, allowing Korrina to take her place.

“Your goals are ambitious, but don’t forget your friends. Friendship is the key to getting stronger.”

Korrina shrugged, thinking that was obvious but didn’t question it. Next was Sanpei.

“You have great potential within you. Go to Alola, where you shall find the answers you seek.”

Sanpei smiled, even though he had no idea what she meant. Next was Clemont.

“Not all hope is lost. What you wish for exists, but you must be willing to put everything on the line to get it.”

Clemont smiled, he knew exactly what she was talking about. Then came Bonnie.

“You have a great responsibility on your shoulders, child. Be very careful, not everyone is a friend.”

“Great responsibility? You mean Squishy?”

“Indeed.”

Confused, Bonnie exited. Last but not least, Shauna came in.

“Love is closer than you think. What you think separates you two is merely in your mind. Fortune favors the bold.”

Shauna blushed, then quickly left, with Olympia shortly behind.

“Now then, let’s go find you a ship!”