"Are you okay?"

  A bright glimmer woke the Water type from a rudely inflicted slumber, the light of day shining into its eyes. Then, with the clarity of consciousness, came the reality of agony. Etched into every part of its body. Scratches all over, rubble rubbing against every wound, with a gash marked in its leg. Mudkip's breaths quickened.

  Was it bleeding out? Too soon to tell. Adrenaline still rushed through the body, blocking off the pain it knew itself to be in. Beckoning the body to keep fighting. But, all it did was mute it. Not completely do away with it.

  But, the pain didn't seem to get worse. Even as Mudkip clung to conscious closer. Every sense grew stronger, yet its pain still seemed muffled. Its nose sniffed, remembering the scent of the route in which it spent so little time, yet desired still to claim more of. Dew and fresh oak hit its stout first, then moss from the riverside. Splashes of rushing water hummed to its side.

  It had drifted off to the side of the river. That is all that Mudkip could surmise, with its vision still blurred. It couldn't feel the rushing water, yet heard it still. So, it must've been on land. But, little imperfections poked holes in Mudkip's story. The texture of the ground felt softer. Less like earth, more like flesh. Heavy breathing shouldn't have been out of the ordinary. But, the sound fell out of sync with its own chest. A different scent mingled amongst the dew and moss. Sweet, like a baked candy Mudkip had once known, but never tasted.

  Something wasn't right.

  Wiggling its leg did nothing. It had been constricted. Bound and tied. The pain had been eased. But, at the cost of imprisonment. Confusion wracked at the senses, attempting to make sense of it all. The scent couldn't have been natural. Nothing of flowers or nature could make something like it. Mudkip focused on its hazed vision. That's all it could do now. Wait, rest its head, and look up to the sky, praying for clarity. Of which, it would soon come.

  Her emerald eyes came first. Staring down at Mudkip. Second came her sympathetic smile. Trying to appear strong, kind. But, the slight shake in the corner of her lip gave away the fakeness of her expression. Mudkip couldn't be fooled so easily. Into thinking everything was sunshine and rainbows. But, the Water type still took further note of her. For whatever reason. Back to her stare.

  They were nothing like her smile. They were something real. Unapologetically real. Shaking slightly, looking down at Mudkip. The Mud Fish thought the dams on her lids would break any second. They weren't calm. They were unstable. Mudkip couldn't ever settle under her stare. It only unnerved. Seemed she was in the same boat as Mudkip. But, for what reason? Mudkip could only surmise one.

  To hurt.

  Her real intentions. They attempted to hide. But, cowardice leaves marks. Her face is full of them. Nerves shook her eyelids, almost to the verge of tears. She struggled to come to terms with it. What she'd have to do. Her nails only gently cradled against Mudkip's skin. Yet, to the Water type, they felt like hardened daggers. Reminders of every wound, every injury. Every bit of harm to its body.

  Mudkip wasn't held against any ground. Only the flesh of this girl's hands. It all made sense. Mudkip's breathing quickened once more. Nothing was right. Nothing ever could be right. What was supposed to be calming was nothing but illusions. Smoke and mirrors to fool Mudkip deeper into its blood stained cage. And, what was real? Well, it only hurt Mudkip even more.

  So, to its instincts, it ran. After all, why would it change now?

  "I-"

  She hadn't even formed the end of the sentence in her mind, before a massive blast of water smacked her in the face.

  Her eyes fell shut, closing to block the rushing water entering her iris. But, the water wouldn't be the problem. Rather, the velocity it hit her with. Even the rushing river hadn't been so severe. Her arms quickly relinquished grip of the Water type. Then, she collapsed to her knees, coughing, spluttering, attempting to make sense of what had happened in only a moment.

  Mudkip, continuing to act on instinct, raised its bound leg, landing on its three other limbs. Then, once it felt its feet come into contact with the floor, only then did it lethargically lower its other leg. Mudkip took a moment to check its injured paw. Bandaged. Constricted, but in the interest of healing. The girl must've done it. Mudkip looked back. But, Ellie continued to grapple with having been blasted so quickly. A twinge of guilt ran down Mudkip's spine. But, what's done is done. Mudkip had no choice but to flee.

  "Hey! I just put all that effort into saving you, and you just-"

  A headache ricocheted around Ellie's head. Even her own shouts made it worse, forcing her head into the palms of her hands. Even in Mudkip's poor condition, a Water Gun strong enough to soak her entire outfit erupted from its mouth. Ellie flung back her hair, rinsing out any water tied between her locks. Checking her rucksack, it seemed mostly unharmed by the shower let loose upon her. Her notebook seemed unscathed too, much to Ellie's relief.

  Ellie turned, expecting to see Mudkip still on the ground. But, it had begun to move already. Sprinting away, with a heavy limp inflicted on its bandaged leg. Closing the rucksack and slinging it over her shoulder, she rushed after the Water type.

  "W-wai-"

  KIP!

  The bandaged leg collapsed. And, with its hind leg stumbling, soon the whole system came crashing down. Mudkip's body roughly chopped against the gravel path below, rendering pieces of Ellie's haphazard medical practice redundant. Ellie skidded to a halt, rubber boots grinding against the earth like worn tires on a track. Mudkip whimpered, climbing back to its feet. But, it didn't last for long. Once more, it fell.

  Ellie reached out to the Water type. But, flashes of her previous attempt at touch appeared swiftly in her mind. Her hand jittered, then stopped, rescinding back to her person. She'd have to settle for observation instead. Watching as it stood one moment, only to fall the next. Yet, it refused to give up the fight and lay down. Ellie wished so deeply to help it to its feet. But, she resigned for playing more cautiously. First, setting her backpack outside the splash zone. Then, methodically moving closer.

  One step at a time. Moving closer, watching Mudkip. The Water type had fallen flat to the ground again. But, Ellie didn't rush in to save it. It'd be too soon. Just edging closer and closer. Then, sitting down. Mudkip watched her for a moment. Ellie made eye contact.

  "I-"

  Another Water Gun interrupted Ellie's speech. Same result. Soaked from head to toe. Some of the water even rebounded, splashing against Mudkip. The stream was short and powerful. But, Ellie came prepared. She just sat there, closing her eyes, feeling the rush of cold liquid run onto her face. Then, once the attack subsided, she let out a lofty sigh.

  She didn't even make the effort to rinse out her hair this time, knowing Mudkip'd likely mess it up again anyways. The Mud Fish growled at her, attempting to claim its space once more. But, Ellie moved in closer. Mudkip attempted another attack. But, its body ran dry of water. Nor could its legs grapple with the weight of its body. Ellie's soaked hand soared towards it. Faster than Mudkip could jerk away to avoid it. Its eyes clenched shut.

  A calm, soft hand graced over Mudkip's head.

  Its eyelids fluttered open. The blue fin on the Mud Fish's head swayed slightly under her touch. Then, continued to swing from side to side, even as her hand reached down to its spiked cheek. Mudkip's eyes stared to the ground, blank, confused. But, not scared. Soon enough, it eased into her hand. Then, without thinking, rubbed its spiked ends against the softness of her skin. An artificial scent followed her. Perhaps a little too heavy. But, it still smelt sweet. Comfy.

  Ellie carefully reached out another hand. Until both cupped around its cheeks comfortably. Ellie's eyes stared into Mudkip's. The one at home hadn't had its eyes open long enough for Ellie to take a proper look. But, here, in the company of another? She could appreciate the cuteness of its eyes. The little white sparkle at its top. Although, it seemed greyed. Life had taken away some of the spark Ellie should've seen.

  Her hands stopped. Mudkip tilted its head. Then, winced slightly, feeling the water undoing the bandage around its leg. Specifically, soaking at the tape, adhesive breaking apart under the stress of the liquid. Ellie gestured for Mudkip to stay put. She could only hope it'd listen. But, without much grievance, it did. Ellie retrieved the med kit once more.

  "Stay still for me," she muttered. The whole bandage had been ruined at this point. So, she repeated the process. Wrapped its leg, maybe even a little tighter, knowing the tides that would soon come. Then, secured it with some tape, Mudkip wiggling its foot as soon as Ellie set her hands off. Now, it felt less like a prison, and more of a simple constraint. One which Mudkip knew would do it good.

  "It's not too tight, is it?" Ellie asked. Mudkip shook its head from side to side. Ellie sighed in relief. Then, her hands carefully clasped Mudkip's sides, checking for any injuries that went untreated. But, she'd been rigorous enough in her initial effort of healing up Mudkip that she couldn't find anything after.

  "Alright, well then..." Ellie took another deep breath, facing the Water type. "You're probably not gonna like this. But, I think you're gonna need to stay with me for a while."

  Mudkip pouted. Not the reaction she wanted.

  "I'm not that bad, I promise," she told the Water type. Mudkip's frown burrowed even deeper. But, in its efforts to show distrust, began to question whether there could be any logic behind it. Distrusting of the girl who had shown it kindness and care, even when Mudkip had been the aggressor. Helping it against the river rapids, with no reason to do so. Maybe, this would be the time to lean in. Shuffle up without difficulty, lose that frown, and look up to Ellie. Not with a smile, but just a neutral expression. One of observation. Like she had shown for a time.

  "Alright. Well, introductions. I'm, uh, I'm Ellie!" the girl stuttered for a moment, introducing herself to a creature that couldn't give more than a yes or a no. Ellie's brain tired at the thought of all the conversation she'd have to carry. But, it'd be a necessary evil. "I'm assuming you don't have a name, so Mudkip is ok, right?"

  Mudkip nodded again.

  "Good!" Ellie chirped. They were making progress. Now, Ellie'd just have to take care of a Pokemon with absolutely no experience. In a route she didn't know. At least she knew its species. But, she also knew its species well enough to know this Mudkip didn't look like any ordinary Mudkip. And not in a good way either.

  Its frame looked remarkably thin. Less flesh than a pile of skin and bones. A sharp contrast to how Mudkip looked under the care of May. That Mudkip lived a life of complete luxury, so maybe it was a slightly unfair comparison. But, she couldn't imagine a Mudkip ever having this little meat on its bones. Starvation struck her as the likely culprit. Mostly because its the one problem Ellie could try and fix without much thought.

  Ellie dug into her rucksack. She initially searched for any berries, Pokepellets, or other Pokémon food of the like. Brendan used the rucksack often, so he might've left some in and forgotten about it. Yet, she found it remarkably clean of anything that Ellie hadn't put in the rucksack herself. Only human food remained. Not something that was suitable for a Pokemon. Or, at least, that's what Ellie assumed.

  But, upon the click of her lunchbox, Mudkip stood up, its tail-fin wagging from side to side. It edged slowly towards Ellie, being careful not to put too much pressure on its injured hoof. Then, Mudkip peered into her bag. The girl sighed, bringing the box out of her bag.

  Ellie opened it up, finding her sandwich split into halves. This was the most nutritious thing there. It wasn't even particularly good for her, but maybe it could be fine for Mudkip? She had no idea. But, the only thing she knew for definite was that Mudkip needed it.

  "Now, here's how this is gonna work," Ellie unfolded the foil around the sandwich, waving it in Mudkip's face. No demand seemed too high for the little Water type. "I'll give you this sandwich, as long as you promise to play extra nice with me and not splash me with any more water."

  Mudkip eagerly accepted the demand. Nodding up and down rapidly. Ellie could only hope Mudkip would stay true to its word. But, even if it didn't, she'd have given the sandwich away. Skin and bones wasn't a good look for the poor axolotl. Ellie set down half the sandwich on the ground, while retaining her own half. Mudkip dived on it in an instant. Then, from there, she expected the sandwich to be gone in only a few blinks of an eye.

  But, Mudkip hadn't devoured it. Rather, the Water type took slow bites in small chunks. Ellie dug into her own, and finished it before Mudkip had even gotten through half of its own sandwich. Ellie'd only ever seen Pokemon demolishing food when they're hungry. Never had she expected it to savour every chew. Different actions born of the same hunger, she supposed.

  "Is it okay?" Ellie gently spoke, as to not alarm Mudkip. It flicked its head towards her, meeting her eyes, before swiftly turning away. It nodded. Slowly, and not with the passion that a Pokemon should've had. Especially after spending so long, presumably, without any food to its name. The poor bairn was probably just eating it because there was nothing else on the menu.

  Ellie glanced back into her rucksack, searching desperately for any packs of Berries, hoping one might manifest right there in a small compartment, waiting to be opened and bless Mudkip with some real food. Ellie ate Berries at home all the time, so maybe she packed some! But, looking through, there was nothing. Ellie knew there was nothing. She just wanted to try regardless.

  A whole five minutes passed, and Mudkip had finished its half of a sandwich. Yet, its stomach still growled for more. In the presence of food, its hunger had only grown more ravenous. Rather than the satiation Mudkip thought it would bring, food only reminded it of its need for more. To fatten out its body, reheal its wounds. It looked to Ellie, delicate eyes praying that she had something else. Ellie could only shake her head from side to side.

  Mudkip collapsed to the ground, pouting once more. Ellie gazed upon the creature for a moment, before her hands gently scooped under Mudkip's belly, bringing it up so the two were face to face. Mudkip went to whack her. But, remembering their deal, it hesitated, merely squirming lightly.

  "Do you want to go hunting for berries?" she asked. Mudkip looked at her, tilting its head for a second. Like, it hadn't expected Ellie to make the extra effort. But, when faced with an offer like that, Mudkip would be a fool to refuse. It nodded, and Ellie smiled. She formed a little hammock with her arms for Mudkip to rest in, keeping the Water type close to her chest.

  "Comfy?" she asked. Mudkip nuzzled into her sweater. It was wet as could be. That was entirely Mudkip's fault. Can't have been too comfy for Ellie, having the woollen fabric soaked to her skin. But, it provided the perfect surface for Mudkip to comfortably rest its head against. Water dripping down its body, soaking into its skin. A calm gentle place...

  To take a nap.

  Well, there went the hope that Mudkip could point her in the direction of any berries. The Mud Fish seemed much more interested in taking a nap. Not that Ellie could blame it. But, it didn't help her when she was trapped in a route alone. Especially with how she'd helped Mudkip. I mean, the Pokemon just waltzed down the river, not even her own, unprotected. Then, all it had done was eat her food, soaked her to the skin, and now snored loudly in her arms.

  Ellie's eyes traced her rucksack. Earphones could've drowned out the noise, if she had thought to bring any. Really, she hadn't came as prepared as she thought. No food for the poor Mudkip, no headphones to drown out any loud noises she might've encountered. Even if she had them, though, she'd have to wake Mudkip to retrieve them. And, she didn't want to do that.

  Why? Why didn't she want to do that? Even for a moment?

  Mudkip hadn't done much to show her kindness. Yet, Ellie found herself burdened, no, blessed with a desire. To protect the little creature, at all costs. Ellie could only hope Mudkip would feel the same in due time. But, she'd done everything she could. It was hurt. So, Ellie had healed it. It was distant. So, Ellie had brought it close. It was thin. So, Ellie gave it food, and searched for more. It needed trust. Ellie gave it.

  It had to trust her now.

  It all felt too sudden. To go from blasting her with a Water Gun, to nuzzling into her soaked sweater, snoring without a care in the world. If trust hadn't been formed in some regard, Mudkip would still be awake. Watching her closely, checking to make sure it wasn't cruelly dumped back into the river, or worse. But, Mudkip's eyes were shut, blind to Ellie's thoughts and actions. Ellie'd sooner die than do any of that horrible stuff. But, it could've happened. Yet, something deep down told Mudkip that it wouldn't. That it simply couldn't. Not by her hands.

  A clearing opened up in between a few trees. Ellie ducked through the branches, taking a moment to recollect herself. It seemed she had made a right choice, as a few berry trees stood right before her. Lucky find. Now, she'd only have to find a way to reawaken Mudkip gently. Her arms gently shook. A natural swaying movement that could've came when walking naturally. Just enough to awaken the Water type from its slumber.

  Mudkip awakened slowly at first. Then, jolted up, startled. Its body shivered slightly. Ellie looked down, watching Mudkip carefully, worrying she had jolted Mudkip awake too suddenly. But, it seemed only momentary. Especially as Mudkip's eyes settled onto the bounty of berries, sitting in the open, ripe for the picking.

  "Any of these to your liking?" asked Ellie. Mudkip gestured towards them with its paw, and Ellie crouched down, letting Mudkip on the floor. The Pokemon trudged to the very bottom of the tree. Its paw reached up to the lowest hanging fruit it could see, swiping the berry from the tree. A yellow berry flopped onto the floor. Mudkip swiped at it, nibbling gently. But, soon, it lost interest, then wandered to the next tree. A bunch of lime berries piled up, in an abundance that Ellie would've thought a dream to Mudkip. But, once more, it took a bite, then lost interest.

  "Neither of them you like?"

  Ellie pouted. All that walking, thinking she hit it lucky, only for Mudkip to turn up its nose to whatever berries she had found. Even worse, Mudkip seemed to shrink upon seeing Ellie's expression. Whimpering, beginning to turn back to the berries. Even if it couldn't savour the taste, it could still try and make something good out of it. To avoid her ire, too. But, Mudkip's sour face gave away its disgust, even when it tried to make do.

  "You don't have to eat them if you don't want to." Ellie took a knee next to Mudkip, gently reminding the Water type it didn't have to eat what it didn't want to. Those words seemed a blessing. Mudkip spat out what remained of the sour, bitter flesh out onto the ground. A stream of water blasted the ground, washing the taste out of its mouth. Ellie giggled, gently patting its back, helping the Water type through its sour disgust. All the while, her eyes traced the area, looking for any other berries.

  "How about some Oran Berries?" Ellie pointed towards a tree nearby, nestled amongst the bulk of the trees among the route. Only difference was the plump blue berries hanging from the highest branches. Branches so high, Ellie would struggle to reach them. Possibly the hardest to get out of any berries around. So, of course, that'd be Mudkip's chosen berry. Jumping up and down, letting out excitable yips, mouth salivating at the berries it hadn't before noticed.

  "Alright, no promises." Ellie sighed. Albeit, with a big smile. The vision of Mudkip's grin kept the drive burning inside her. To jump up, swipe at the branches above. Her arms reached as high as they could, swiping desperately. Leaping high into the air. Once, twice, then again. Only stopping once her balance tumbled, falling to the ground roughly.

  The young girl winced, feeling the rough ground rub against her elbows. Mudkip yipped, sprinting over to its fallen friend, pawing at her side. "I'm fine. Just fine." She insisted, but Mudkip wanted to make sure regardless. It held up a paw, gently rubbing the dirt from her sweater arms where she'd fallen. What it did left a lot to be desired, with Mudkip's already dirty limbs. But, the gesture melted Ellie's heart regardless, pushing her back to her feet again.

  "Well, I can't reach up there. I can't climb like a Mankey either, so that's out of the picture." Ellie's eyes glanced to the tree trunk, wincing at the thought of another meeting with the ground. Mudkip looked up high, eyes tracing the swaying branch. It gently pawed at Ellie's leg, jumping up at her, pointing to the branches. Then, to her arms. Ellie didn't know quite what to do, but did the first thing that came to her mind. Scooping Mudkip up.

  Its paws soon touched against the soft fabric of her sweater, rigid from the waterworks, but still comfy nonetheless. Ellie lifted Mudkip higher, letting them both get a better view.

  "Any ideas?" Ellie pondered. But, Mudkip seemed to already have a plan. Taking a deep breath, swishing water around its cheeks. Mudkip planted its paws more firmly. Ellie tilted her head, but didn't object. Maybe a light Water Gun would let the berries fall from the branch.

  MUDKIP!

  Its cry thundered through the route, reverberating from tree to tree. Then, shortly after the battle cry, came a bullet of a projectile. Force great enough to send Ellie off balance, tumbling while Mudkip slipped from her grasp. The orb spun and spun, blasting through the air, until it made contact with the root of the branch. It burst instantly, the force of the explosion snapping the loose end straight off. The branch fell to the floor with a tremendous thud, the sound of impact startling Ellie for a moment. But, it only brought Mudkip resounding joy.

  The jackpot of berries, sitting right in front of them. A little wet from the impact of what Ellie would later learn to be Water Pulse. But, still ripe, rich, and full of flavour. Forget being unceremoniously dumped to the floor, the drop only helped. Brought it closer to the berries which it soon devoured with hearty pleasure. Jumping around, scooping up many a berry in its mouth. Ellie, after the initial startle, joined Mudkip, collecting all the berries she could, before dropping them at Mudkip's feet.

  Mudkip's eyes only shone with greater delight, diving into the stack of berries, swimming through them like Scrooge McGolduck. Ellie giggled, watching Mudkip devour the berries with delight engraved into every inch of its blue and orange face. Soon enough though, it seemed like it only had a blue face, as the juice from the Oran Berries stained Mudkip's cheeks an entirely different colour. Mudkip didn't seem to notice, nor care.

  In the end, Mudkip devoured around twenty berries in one sitting, sighing in satisfaction. It looked upon the last three that lay on the ground with a still unquenched hunger. Yet, it couldn't help but notice the presence of the girl, watching with a smile. Looking back down at the berries, the Mud Fish Pokemon nudged the remaining three berries towards her. Ellie looked down, inspecting them closely.

  "Are these ones bad or something?" Ellie picked one up, looking around for any mould, or maybe a stray bug bite that could've harmed the berry's safety to eat. But, she found nothing of the sort. With a smile, she nudged them back to Mudkip, declaring, "Well, they're safe to eat, so gobble away, Mudkip!"

  Mudkip pouted. Using its spiked cheeks, it nudged the berries one by one towards Ellie. Then, it sat down on the floor behind the berries, looking up at Ellie once more. Ellie tilted her head, asking, "Are you full? If you are, we can try and find some Pokemon to eat them instead."

  MUDKIPPPPP!

  Third time that day. Soaked to her skin, Water Gun blasting against her face. Ellie sat, staring for a mere moment. Mudkip huffed, then continued moving the berries along the floor. Much more aggressively, until the washed berries squished against her legs. Ellie felt her mind slow, before a light bulb went off in her head.

  "Oh, these are for me!" Ellie exclaimed eureka, much to Mudkip's annoyance. With an exasperated groan, the Water type collapsed to the floor. Ellie giggled, pinching Mudkip's cheeks, to the Mud Fish's even greater annoyance. "Sorry, was too focused on getting your sweet cheeks fed."

  Mudkip shook Ellie's hand from its cheeks, pawing at the berries again, begging for her to eat them. Ellie did so happily. Even if she didn't enjoy the taste of Oran Berries, she'd had put on a pretend face just to make Mudkip happy. After all, it would be rude to reject the gift Mudkip was giving her. Even if that gift came with another splash to the face. But, luckily, Oran Berries had become an accustomed snack for Ellie. So, she was more than happy to finish off the last three berries, sighing in satisfaction on completion.

  "Thank you," she rubbed Mudkip on the head. A gesture Mudkip took to most kindly, nuzzling into her pale hand. Ellie smiled. The fin on its head reminded her of Ralts, now that she thought about it. Mudkip's just being a navy blue, while Ralts' horn was more of a pinkish colour.

  ...

  "Oh Arceus, I forgot!" Ellie's phone dashed to her pocket, scrolling through until she found the clearest picture of a Ralts that she had saved. Then, she thrust the device in Mudkip's face, zooming in even more to focus on all of Ralts' features. "Have you seen a Pokemon like this around here?"

  Mudkip tilted its head. The device had appeared many times before, but never did Mudkip have the privilege to gaze into one. But, what lay beyond the glass registered as unfamiliar to Mudkip. Unfortunately, it would have to disappoint, and shake its head. That disappointment couldn't help but show on Ellie's face as well, sighing and flopping onto the ground.

  Her Rotom Phone followed, falling face down onto the ground. Not a single notification had came through from Brendan, either. The search seemed fruitless. Ellie didn't worry about the lack of updates. Brendan could handle himself, even if he did have a nasty habit of getting injured in the wildest of ways. But, that'd be when he didn't have all his Pokemon by his side. This time, he had more than a couple to keep him company.

  More than worry, came disillusionment. Maybe this search had been all that Ellie had feared. A waste of time for all parties involved. Brendan having to take precious time out of his busy schedule, just to chase after some Ralts she saw online. All for the purpose of a leech living upstairs. Then, for herself, well it'd be a small disappointment. She shouldn't have expected much.

  Mudkip trodded to her side, white pupils tracking her emerald eyes. It whimpered slightly. Pawed at her hand, trying to win back her affection, after disappointing her with its lack of knowledge. But, Ellie wasn't mad at the little guy. Could never be mad, in fact. She sat up from the ground, picking Mudkip from the ground. She couldn't bring herself to ever vocalize that thought. That it had been a waste of time. In fact, that thought got quickly buried.

  Seeing Mudkip come into its own had been more than worth it. Sure, her bag and clothes were dripping with water. Sure, they'd had their difficulties. But, the look of joy on its face as it stuffed itself with berries. And, now, relaxed under the gentle touch over her fin. Maybe this was what being a trainer was all about.

  Maybe...

  "Hold still for a second," Ellie's hand gently lifted from Mudkip's fin. The Mud Fish whimpered, resisting the urge to chase after her hand, choosing instead to follow orders. Her hand shook first, rinsing itself of any excess water. Then, reached deep into the rucksack, fingers tracing past her notebook, until her nails scraped against something metallic. Then, out came a Pokeball.

  Mudkip jumped at the sight of it. Nearly to the point of hopping out of Ellie's lap. The girl watched the Mud Fish carefully too, beginning to place the Pokeball back into her bag. But, Mudkip had seemed to ease after the initial shock. So, Ellie continued, setting the Pokeball right at Mudkip's feet. It took one step back for space. Then, glanced up to Ellie.

  "Well, I came to this Route looking for the Pokemon you saw here." Ellie's hand picked up her Rotom Phone, shaking the little device before placing it back down. "But...I don't think that's why I was meant to be here."

  Ellie stared at the reflection in the Pokeball. Not at all the reflection she would've wanted to see. Wet hair, sweater dripping, cheeks too flushed. But, it felt weirdly comfortable. Especially with Mudkip sat just a little bit away, staring at its own reflection. Then, looking to the small button held at the centre of the device. White, not reflective enough to show Mudkip's true appearance. It didn't know how to feel staring at it.

  "Maybe I was here for a different reason," Ellie continued, quickly breaking Mudkip's attention from the device, right into those emerald eyes. Ellie, acutely aware of Mudkip's eyes staring intensely at her, broke away from the eye contact, cheeks going flush. "Look, I'm going on about a lot of nonsense that doesn't really matter. But, what I'm trying to say is..."

  Ellie jolted the Pokeball again.

  "Maybe, we could be partners?"

  She'd be a fool not to try it. Even if Mudkip said no, like she had expected. It could just be returned to the wild, living out a comfy life near the very Oran Berry tree they rested under. No harm in trying. But, still, Ellie went into it with high hopes. High hopes that wouldn't falter. Especially as Mudkip's eyes glistened. It gave a chirp. They were in agreement. Then, a wet slap of its paw slammed against the white button.

  Ellie expected a sudden flash of crimson, as Mudkip was transported inside. Just like all the shows, movies, and real life captures she'd seen.

  CLICK!

  But, no. The Pokeball just flopped open, revealing the empty expanse inside. Ellie looked curiously at the Pokeball, chuckling. Of course her first capture couldn't go well. There just had to be a defective Pokeball in the mix of Brendan's lab. Probably tinkered with to the point of losing its capturing ability. Still, didn't make the situation any less embarrassing, and Ellie's cheeks any less flush.

  "Hang on a second..." Ellie's hands twisted the lid, snapping it back onto the base of the Pokeball. Then, it rolled towards Mudkip once more. This time, it pressed into Mudkip's side. But, once more, it flopped open without any fanfare. Mudkip's head tilted, especially as Ellie threw the Pokeball aside, digging into her bag again.

  "D-Don't worry, that was just a bad one!" Ellie spoke, returning with a Great Ball in hand. Mudkip seemed much more enthusiastic about this Pokeball, finding likeness in its shade of blue to Mudkip's own skin colour. Ellie rolled the ball across the ground and Mudkip heartily headbutted the button. It should've been the easiest capture in the world. So...

  "Why on Earth isn't it working?!?"

  Ellie went through the process in the head. Could she have been doing something wrong? Was there a certain throwing techniques required to catch starters? No, that's ridiculous. Mudkip wants to be captured here, so it shouldn't even resist. Then, what was happening? Ellie fidgeted with the locks of the ball, fingers tracing the metal ring, feeling for any damage unseen by the naked eye. Everything seemed in order.

  Mudkip pouted, collapsing into the grass. It attempted to feign uninterest, like the Pokeball not working hadn't mattered at all. But, Mudkip couldn't keep that face for long, before the disappointment set in. Then, the thoughts started to rattle around Ellie's brain. Mudkip could see the gears turning, arriving to a conclusion Mudkip hadn't wished she'd reach.

  "Do you...already have a trainer?"

  Mudkip's body began to tremble. It stood up from the floor, attempting to bark. But, its shaky frame left lots to be desired. The cry came out desperate, rather than antagonizing. In the pursuit of stopping any questions, Mudkip had succeeded. Only by telling Ellie more than could be explained, with even words. Ellie held out her hand, Mudkip growling slightly. It went to bite at Ellie's hand. But, in the end, it hesitated. Didn't have the strength. Instead, it went nuzzling into her hand, seeking the comfort found in her pale skin.

  "That's a yes...although we both wish you didn't..." Ellie muttered lowly. Must've been some proper-good trainer. Not a single sign of them, even in the long moments they spent by the riverside. Not even bothering to search for their own Pokemon. Leaving Mudkip in that sort of condition. Without medicine, food, or any compassion clearly. No Pokemon should shake when asked about its owner. Never in a million years.

  Maybe the trainer abandoned it? While still keeping the Pokeball? But, Ellie couldn't imagine a reason why. Sentimentality went out the window as soon as she saw Mudkip's condition. So downtrodden, it became clear the trainer just couldn't give a Rattata's ass about the starter. So, Ellie only knew two things for sure.

  1. Mudkip couldn't be caught. Master Ball, Pokeball, Great Ball, didn't matter. Its trainer still had whatever ball it had been captured with.

  2. Should she have the strength, she'd smack whoever was so neglectful to Mudkip.

  "Well, I'm...I'm sorry..." Ellie slung her arm through the rucksack straps, then opened them wide, free for Mudkip to hop in. The Mud Fish glanced at the Great Ball, then eagerly accepted Ellie's embrace, falling into her makeshift hammock. "What do we do now then?"

  Mudkip's eyes darted around the forest. Then, widened, pointing forward. Cries attracted Ellie's attention, Mudkip leaping and pointing through a clearing in the trees. Ellie peaked through for anything in her immediate vision. But, it seemed more of the same. But, to Mudkip, it seemed of greater importance.

  "Something important is...through here?" Ellie raised a finger to point, aligned with Mudkip's paw. Mudkip tugged on her sweater even more, continuing to cry out. Answered her question pretty well. Ellie nodded, settling Mudkip down, deciding instantly to follow Mudkip's wishes. What harm could it do, after all? It was only natural that it would know the route better than her. It probably already knew about that berry spot. It just was too tired to specifically navigate her.

  "I'll put my faith in you, Mudkip," Ellie thought.

  Faith can be misplaced, however.

  "This...is the place you want us to go to?"

  Strange was one word for it. Apt. Maybe assisted by the setting sun behind her. But, really, that seemed too kind of a word. Vague to the point of not detailing Ellie's proper emotions. If she had her own way, she'd have called it many other things. Decrepit, ominous, and extremely dodgy. Great hollering thundered from underneath the trapdoors, as well as faint lumiescent light shining between the gaps. If it hadn't been for that, Ellie'd have made a good case for it being abandoned. Or, just some sort of place for sewage works. But, alas, she wouldn't be that lucky.

  The people inside. Arceus, she couldn't get over the sound of it. The loud cheers, cries, even sounding like some Pokemon mixed into the fray. Ellie's body hesitated. Mudkip's body even began to shiver, especially as Ellie stopped. But, mind over matter forced her forward. There had to be something of importance hidden below the surface. If that's what Mudkip needed, she'd abide by it. Even if she hated every second.

  Getting a steady grip on the handle, with Mudkip helping her push, they threw one side of the doors open. Mudkip trodded close to her side, yipping and swiping at her leg. Ellie nodded, taking Mudkip in her arms, before glancing down below the trapdoor. Darkened neon purple and yellow lights shone a way down into the earth. The dim lighting didn't help the sinking feeling in Ellie's stomach.

  "This is for Mudkip..." she sighed, reminding herself what she was fighting for, before beginning the slow descent down the steps. Mudkip huddled close, Ellie squeezing tighter every time she took another step. Thankfully, the flight of stairs came to an end quickly, leaving Ellie face to face with a wooden door. Ellie tapped it gently, listening in on the other side, before pushing it open. The point of no return.

  Even with the cacophony of noise hollering from inside the building, Ellie hadn't quite anticipate it being this busy. The tables stood in abundance, high rise with just as high seats, nearly all filled to their capacity. The sound grew deafening by the second. Screams, hollers, laughter, all mixed into one racket Ellie couldn't escape. She resisted the urge to childishly hold her hands against her ears, choosing instead to brace and move forward.

  But, nearly everything about the place beckoned her to stop. Glasses harshly chinking against one another. Small glass cylinders, larger mugs with froth bubbling from the top. Ellie hadn't seen the types of beverages in years. Yet, she recognised them all the same. That scent lingered in the air too. It landed like a sucker punch to the stomach, a queasiness overcoming her senses. Her head throbbed. Mudkip made a soft cry in her arms. At least, she saw its mouth moved. The actual noise had been drowned out. Ellie could only shake her head, then move further in.

  Why was she moving further in? Everything about this place told her to run. Not a single person looked her age. For good reason, most likely. Heck, looking for a gal amongst this place proved a challenge. The tables even loomed above her. She'd struggle to climb onto a stood, let alone fit in amongst the people. Even worse, it seemed her appearance had garnered a couple stares. Stares Ellie tried to avoid, slinking past the tables. But, even then, she couldn't help but stick out like a sore thumb. She clenched Mudkip closer to her chest.

  "On the wrong side of town, eh missus?"

  One of the men gripped Ellie's shoulder as she walked past. Her body froze. Laughter echoed through the building. Seemingly louder, coming from that table. Ellie didn't dare look. It'd only make her more sick. The contact she didn't ask for, and the horrendous laughter that came after. She didn't need a face to match it. Every sense overwhelmed so strongly it nearly knocked her down. But, her shivering legs attempted to continue forward.

  But, the grip on her shoulder remained absolute. Like, he expected her to stay. Ellie's arms clenched tighter. Mudkip whimpered, glancing over her shoulder. Then, looking back at the girl.

  "Or do you just look that young?"

  The man spoke almost hopefully. His finger brushed against her sweater. Still soaked to the skin. But, the chills only grew stronger. Mudkip huffed. He smiled. The rest of his friends watched without a worry. The little Water type growled.

  "Well, I'll-"

  A sphere of water exploded against the man's chest. Ellie finally turned. Her body froze once more. Shivering, the water rebounding to touch against her hair. Fear of retaliation instantly kicked up in her head. Especially as the man tumbled off of the seat, crashing to the ground. Mudkip growled, breaking free of Ellie's grip. Then, following its trainer as she moved further into the building. Without even time to process why. Her body moved before she could even process why.

  Ellie hoped to outrun the fierce looks that seemed to follow her, flooring it as fast as she could. But, no matter how fast her legs carried her, the gazes all followed her. Mudkip followed without question, beginning to regret its actions, once it saw the ire lit in the man's eyes. But, nothing to be done about it now. Other than run for the hills, and find an open room to hide in. Ellie spotted a toilet, just in the distance. She'd take anything at this point.

  Ellie crashed to the ground. Bumping heads with someone on the way in, who didn't at all falter, even when Ellie had fallen right to the ground. Spiked boots clanked against the ground, leading up to her skin tight suit. A sickly sweet smirk followed, the woman's cherry red lipstick imprinting itself on Ellie's mind.

  "Lost, little girl?"

  Mudkip skidded to a stop. It growled once more. The woman's eyes flickered to the small Mud Fish, something like recognition hiding behind her eyes.

  The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

  "Well, at least you have a guide," she smirked, still addressing Ellie, although her eyes remained fixated upon Mudkip. Ellie picked herself up from the floor, pale palms dusted with filth as she hurried to her feet. Scooping Mudkip into her arms, Ellie turned to face the rest of the building. Her eyes found a flight of stairs. Not a guarantee of safety. Merely of distance. Good enough.

  Running upwards, Ellie didn't stop for even a moment. Mudkip huddled into her arms, daring not to make a sound more. Only murmur once Ellie found a place of relative safety. Ellie reached the end of the stairs. Her eyes turned towards the wall, shallow enough to allow an easy view of the ground floor. But, high enough that Ellie could duck under, and not be spotted. Huddled to the corner, she finally set herself down, Mudkip dropping from her arms.

  "Arceus..." Ellie muttered, eyes darting towards the staircase. Seemed no one had been following her. For now. But, that didn't make the unease go away instantly. Her hurried breaths came in and out, desperate to catch the breath she'd so desperately been deprived of. Not enough to huff down on her inhaler, but enough to make sure she settled for more than a moment. Mudkip trodded beside her, guilt written on its face.

  "You're...you're a handful..." Ellie spoke softly as to not alert anyone of her presence, but just harsh enough to give off just how annoyed she was. Or scared. Both were battling with each other. Ellie groaned, placing her head against the wall, running her hands through her hair. "I'm trapped in some shady bar, filled with creeps or Arceus knows what else? I-"

  Ellie looked to Mudkip. It had shrunk even further. Wincing, as if expecting her anger would boil over into something more. Ellie's throat went dry. Suddenly, she hadn't the energy to be mad about anything. Fingers dug under Mudkip's body, lifting the soaked Water type onto her lap again.

  "Sorry, it's not your fault. Just...wish it'd be easier..." Ellie muttered. Mudkip stared at her with wide eyes. It hadn't expected the warmth. A smile came onto its face.

  Then, it disappeared just as quickly, as a bell rang through the building.

  It reverberated around the building, Ellie's eyes attempting to track whatever had made the sound. But, when she found nothing in her immediate sights, she stood up from the floor. Her hands grabbed at the edge of the shallow wall, peaking over the edge to what lay below. A ring, stood right at the centre. Ellie must've missed it in her blind dash forward. Not that it was small or anything. Rather, it felt so imposing, with its large metal cage running around the edge, that Ellie felt her chest tighten.

  Then, her breath be quickened, as her eyes lay upon the two Pokemon at the centre of the ring.

  In opposite corners, two of the menacing creatures stood. Or, slithered, in one's case. A snake like creature, shaded black, with yellow hexagonal patterns running along the length of its body. One even branded its head, where two red fangs protruded from its mouth. A half black, half red tail slithered across the ground, a poisoned sharp edge jabbing a mocking gesture at the other Pokemon.

  The other stood much taller. Bipedal, with white fur and jagged red stripes running along its body. Its white fur appeared stained. Either by dirt, or crimson where it didn't belong. Long, sharp claws attached to the edge of its arms, whooshing as they swiped through the air. Its tail wagged from side to side. Excitement Ellie wish she could describe as innocent. But, the malicious glee in its smirk told of another story.

  Zangoose. Seviper. Ellie felt sick at just the sight of either individually. Those hacking claws. Ellie's body shivered. Seviper's poisonous fangs and tail. Ellie hadn't seen the Pokemon in real life before. But, she couldn't help but live in fear regardless.

  They'd been put against one another. Ellie's eyes widened. Everything set into place. Perhaps it would be an excellent fight for the spectators. A fight where each party gave it their all. But, Ellie knew better. With the cage locking the two inside, there would be only one Pokemon walking away alive.

  Ellie couldn't rip her eyes away.

  "ZANGOOSE!"

  "SEVIPER!"

  Two trainers roughly cried out their Pokemon's names. Another ring of the bell, and the two surged forward. Murderous intent flickered between the two of them. Zangoose marked with the ring with its sharp claws as it dashed forward, while Seviper laid back in its corner, tail flickering to taunt the Zangoose into its reach. Zangoose huffed. Whatever Seviper had cried out, the Normal type wouldn't stand for it much longer.

  Zangoose's sharpened claws raised high. Cries of exertion let out with each heavy handed strike, aiming to deal the finishing blow right then and there. Seviper was cunning, however, slipping around the strikes with relative ease. A couple close calls, where Zangoose's claws came close to their mark. But, its slipper body lent itself well to being evasive. Getting a counter hit would be another story entirely, however.

  Zangoose's swings weren't only heavy. They were quick. Slicing through the air, a great whoosh of wind blowing through the ring with each strike. Seviper looked for any opening. But, it couldn't see one. Not that its trainer would be much help anyway. The only thing they shouted were commands. Commands, that turned into demands, that turned into threats.

  "KILL 'EM!"

  "FIGHT BACK!"

  No strategy. Just aimless cries, fuelling senseless bloodlust. The mongoose swung with even more ferocity. Its swings traded speed for power. Tired of these games. Tired of throwing out aimless attacks. Tired of seeing Seviper's smug face, not painted crimson with its own blood. Seviper slipped through each just as it had before, waiting for the right moment. An overhead club swung down towards the snake. Perfect.

  The ferret's sharpened claws went soaring down, sinking into the ring. But, they couldn't be pulled out so easily. Zangoose struggled, gritting its teeth, attempting to dig its claws from the ground. But, the force had lodged them in tight. Seviper hissed. Its long tongue slithered out of its mouth, poison dripping from its lips. Time to hunt.

  It shot at Zangoose like a bullet. A sudden strike, with only a second of warning. Zangoose struck at Seviper with its other claw. But, with its balance off kilter, Seviper's flesh was merely grazed. Ignored, in pursuit of the kill. The snake reached Zangoose's shoulder, its sharp ends piercing a point in Zangoose's neck.

  Poison oozed from the pressure point, toxic enzymes eating away at Zangoose's fur, breaking the walls to its skin that the fur hid. Another strike to the back of the knee brought Zangoose's leg crashing down. Then, another strike, until both knees took to the ground. Seviper chuckled, dodging a lazy strike at its body. Zangoose huffed. The poor ferret had gotten tired. If only Seviper cared.

  "STRANGLE IT!"

  Seviper didn't need to be told. It had already decided on its attack long before the match had began. A perfect way to finish off its dreaded enemy. Its body wrapping around Zangoose's neck, squeezing as tight as it could, until the mongoose's face turned blue. Its poisonous tail stabbed at the back of its head, just to add insult to injury. The match had been decided. But, that wouldn't stop Seviper having fun with Zangoose's end. Giggling to itself.

  "WHAT ARE YOU DOING? FIGHT!"

  Zangoose huffed again. Its claws scratched around its neck, attempting to cut into Seviper's body. But, whatever scratches it made were minor at best. Seviper just clung on tighter, until Zangoose hadn't the energy anymore. Zangoose's eyes lazily fell to the ground, where its claw still rested deep in the ring. Wedged between whatever wooden supports lay beneath. It could only afford one last struggle.

  Sharpened claws tugged against the oak pylons. Splinters fell onto its white fur, breaching the skin beneath. But, Zangoose could feel its grip loosening by the second. Oxygen became a luxury. One which Zangoose attempted to spare itself of using. Small movements, picking away at its restraints, until its claw finally felt the luminescent light blaring above. Free. Raising its claw like it had unearthed the Honedge in the stone.

  Seviper's eyes widened. Its grip slipped for only a moment. Not quite untightening. But, a crucial second, affording Zangoose the opportunity to strike back. And, strike back it did. Its breathing remained unsteady. But, its desire for Seviper's severed head proved greater than its need for oxygen. The mongoose struck with its dominant hand, thrusting straight into the Jaw Snake's body.

  The Fang Snake Pokemon went flying back, side hitting against the cage, rattling the entire arena. Zangoose slowly climbed to its feet. But, exhaustion hung in every movement. The next attack would kill. Seviper could go on the offensive.

  "IT'S WEAK! RUSH IT DOWN NOW!"

  Seviper's trainer only supported the plan. Pushed their snake further. Seviper smirked, ignoring the mark Zangoose had made. It only focused on the poison that dripped from Zangoose's body. A sure sign it had to be getting weaker. Its slippery body moved slowly at first. Then, it dived.

  Zangoose snickered as its adversary approached. The toxic poison piled over its skin, seeping deep into its bloodstream. What would've been deadly for another Zangoose, proved a boon for this one. Its claws shimmered with a purple glaze. Sharpening, toughening to the strength of steel. Seviper continued its pounce. But, it might've just leaped into its own death.

  "KILL THAT SNAKE!"

  One strike was all it took. Zangoose's arm punctured through the air, stopping the snake dead in its tracks. Its claws had punctured through the skin. The snake's body dangled loosely. Poisoned tail thrashing, attempting to make its way out. But, there would be no escaping this. Its mouth spluttered, spewing acid, with a red tinge to its saliva. The mark of blood. The battle was over.

  But, the fight was not.

  Seviper dropped to the floor, eyes swirled. Fainted, which brought around the end of most battles. But, cage fighting offered something spectators didn't see with the League. True ferocity. How long they could last until the Pokemon broke down into pieces. The audience waited. Zangoose overlooked its opponent. It could've walked away. But, everyone knew the outcome.

  Only one leaves.

  Another slash cut at the snake's body. Puncturing holes in the snake's scaly body. Each hole a reminder of its fatal failure. A faint yell came out, compelling Seviper to fight. But, it'd been drowned out by the crowd. Screaming, crying out. Seviper let out a slow whimper. The cuts had awoken it from slumber. Only to put it back down into unconsciousness, once another strike to its chest came.

  Poison, blood, some mix of the two seeped out of its wounds. Acidic liquid coated the floor, burning a mark onto the already faded ring. The losing trainer drew a Pokeball. His hand twisted, shook, thinking of recalling the snake. But, turning to the crowd, he knew he'd never make it out alive. Be branded a coward, forced to pay all the winnings, regardless of the outcome. He'd known it when he signed up. So, all he could do was look away.

  Zangoose lifted the snake up. One hand squeezed around its neck, sharp claws barely grazing against its scales. Halfway to death already. Good. The mongoose let it hang there for a moment more. Oxygen cut off so it couldn't breathe. Let it feel all the suffering of suffocation. There'd be no more pain after. Better to make it last where it counted. Zangoose's other claw descended, drawing momentum. Then, it shot up.

  Right to the chin.

  Ellie looked away at the last moment. Just quick enough not to see the impact. Although, she could hear the droplets spew behind her. Followed by the ruckus of the crowd. Half the crowd roared. The other half wailed in despair. Their chosen horse slain. Not empathetic. Only guilty of their lost earnings. Not of the brutal murder of a Pokemon. A kill so easily preventable. A crime everywhere in the region. But, in those cracked halls, it became a normality.

  Ellie's stomach answered for her. Throwing up into an industrial size bin, leaving Mudkip's gift and more discarded. But, no matter what her body flushed out, it could never erase the vision painted in her memory. Even the brief glance at Seviper, strung up by the neck, carved out for its execution, with blood splattering over the canvas.

  She daren't look back. No matter her feelings on either of the Pokemon, neither deserved it. Not to have their imminent deaths cheered on. Not to be thrown into a cage and slaughtered. Not to have their bodies discarded like a dirty rag.

  Mudkip trudged up to her leg. A spiked cheek rubbed against her heel. Attempting to ease her worries, doubts. Or, just make it easier to throw everything up. Ellie glanced down at Mudkip for a moment, heaving once more. Brushing aside her lips, letting out one more acidic breath, her eyes dragged to the Water type.

  "Why? Why are we even here?"

  Mudkip huddled into itself. Shrinking again. Ellie let out a huff of exhaustion. Her body barely managed to pull itself together to rip away from the bin, sliding down against the wall. Mudkip was shivering. But, not with the cold. It'd be fairly equipped to deal with whatever frost came around. This could only be fear. Of what lay within the cage? Or, the people around it? Mudkip was only looking for its trainer, it should've been-

  Ellie's eyes suddenly widened in understanding.

  "You..."

  Ellie scooped up Mudkip into her arms.

  "Y-you were getting prepared...to fight in that thing?"

  Mudkip didn't want to confirm it. But, ultimately surrendered, with a slow nod of its head. Ellie felt her stomach bubble again. Painted over those visions came thoughts of Mudkip. Trapped, alone, forced to do battle. Then, slain on the floor. Her Mudkip, torn to shreds. Ellie struggled to remain in steady breaths. The thoughts would've forced her to sickness, had she not just thrown everything up before.

  Ellie's eyes darted around. The spectators on the second floor were too busy enjoying themselves to notice her much. Or, if they had noticed her, they hadn't bothered her. They needed out as soon as possible. Ellie wouldn't stand to be in this place any longer. And, she guessed Mudkip wouldn't stand for it, either.

  "Do you have any idea where your Pokemon would be kept?"

  Mudkip, still shivering, raised its head up. It glanced between the mound of people and tables, past the wooden bar that lay just to the left, towards a wall where three doors lay. Its paw gestured towards the doors. Ellie squinted. Then, she raised herself from the floor. Shaking legs threatened to bring her back down, but she ultimately got up with little issue. Her eyes focused exclusively on Mudkip, bringing the Water type into her arms. Then, she looked straight ahead.

  "Tell me when you recognise something."

  Mudkip nodded. Then, Ellie moved forward, not daring to drift wayward from the path straight forward. Her shaking legs slipped through the mound of bodies, tables and chairs. Trying to shrink as much as possible. Appear invisible, so as to fade from the visible eye. No one noticed her this time. Lucky for Ellie. She slipped through, slowly walking past the doors. Mudkip sniffed between the two, until its eyes settled on the second, crying out and waving its paw at the wooden entrance.

  "In here?" she asked, already taking Mudkip's interest as an answer, attempting to twist the knob of the wooden door. But, the handle jammed. Locked. The door refused to budge from her feeble attempts to open it. And, any rough attempts would no doubt attract attention from the bar.

  "No luck," she admitted to Mudkip, wincing as the words escaped her mouth. No lock-picking skills, no strength to brute force her way through. All that, just to be stuck on the second floor of a crime ridden building, without any clue how to get out.

  Mudkip looked up at Ellie, then cried out, gesturing towards the ground. Ellie rescinded her grip without any second thought, letting Mudkip drop to the floor. The Water type winced as its injured leg hit against the floor. But, ultimately lifted itself up. It took in a deep breath. Ellie took a step back, affording Mudkip the space it needed. Then...

  A sudden blast broke open the door.

  The wooden door fell from its hinges, landing with a deafening thud. If the people at the bar didn't notice her then, they certainly noticed her now. Once more, her flight instincts seized her body, gripping her and thrusting her inside of wherever Mudkip wanted to go. Stepping over the door, Ellie glanced around at the room. Without any time to waste, she hurriedly looked around.

  Tables lined with Pokeballs stood to either side of the room. Stuffed in plastic containers, stacked up atop one another. Ellie couldn't imagine how many Pokemon lay inside. Trapped, to be sold or thrown into the ring for slaughter. Mere fodder for the fighting. A fate she hoped to save Mudkip from.

  A Pokeball lay on the floor of the room. Discarded, like it had been quickly tossed into the room, without a second thought. Mudkip trudged along, gently picking at it with its foot. Ellie crouched down to inspect the Pokeball closely. The Pokeball had some wear and tear to it. Looked like it'd been through a bit. Either that, or whoever owned Mudkip had just used the first Pokeball they could find. Either way, the starter's eyes glimmered with recognition.

  "This is the one, isn't it?" Ellie asked, attempting to confirm her suspicions, even if she had little doubts. Mudkip nodded affirmatively. Perfect. Their ticket out of here. Leaving this place behind, telling Brendan all that went wrong, then hopefully doing something about it before any other Pokemon got hurt. The light returned to Ellie's eyes for a fleeting instant. A gentle tap on the top of the capsule shrunk down the Pokeball, fitting into her rucksack easily.

  "WHERE IS SHE?"

  A voice boomed from outside the room. It wasn't the person who had grabbed her. But, by the sounds of things, they'd be equally as merciless. Ellie glanced around. There'd be no light in the room. Only the faint light that trickled in through the doorway. The rays covered nearly all within the room. The young girl looked for a place laden with shadows. She only found a narrow gap, between tubs of supplies and Pokeballs. It was better than nothing.

  Scooping up Mudkip in her arms, she dived under the table. Her body scrunched up, fingers gently pushing the tubs closer together. Then, forming a gentle cup over Mudkip's mouth. Ellie daren't make a sound to tell Mudkip to remain silent. It'd be unnecessary anyways. Mudkip knew too well crying out lead to punishment.

  The stomping of boots against wood thundered through the room. Ellie's body clenched tighter. Arcanine fur coated the boots. Then, following the human boots, came a pair of tri-toed feet. Two toes blue, akin to the colour of its leg, then the central one a light crimson. Ellie didn't know what type of Pokemon possessed those attributes. But, she didn't want to find out either.

  A singular breath could give her away. So, she held her lungs as much as possible. Breathing into her arm where she could, attempting to muffle the sounds of her exhales. The three toed Pokemon moved from in front of her, and Ellie only felt like she could breathe slightly more. She didn't dare look at whoever was commanding such a Pokemon, either. No curiosity would overcome the cost of peaking her head around the bend.

  "Did she escape?" he muttered in a deep, rough as gravel voice. Ellie shivered. The man growled, hand swiping at the desk, banging against the metal surface. A squeal nearly escaped her mouth, had her hands not clasped over her mouth to stop halfway through. Ellie's heart jumped at the motion. Her heart thudded in her chest. Shaking eyes looked down at Mudkip, then back out into the open room.

  Knees bent, the man inspected the floor beneath. Ellie's eyes set on his. Watching every movement, slowly. He hadn't noticed her hidden in the shadows. But, Ellie took note of him. The rugged beard, harsh features. A darkened utility jacket, as well as a pair of cargo pants. He looked ready for the military. Even the same tone. Yet, here he was, stuck in a place of sin.

  "The Pokeball's gone," he sighed. But, how could he know of such a thing? The Pokeball only held significance to two people in the whole world. Herself, and its trainer...

  ...

  The poor thing trembled in Ellie's arms. The girl's blood boiled. Biting down on her lip, Ellie holding back everything she wanted to do, or say. She needed to. For both their sakes. Mudkip couldn't fall back into that old life. Not into his bloody hands.

  It wouldn't be long now. The man had already risen to his feet. She'd slipped by undetected. All she had to do was wait. It wouldn't be long until he went back to chase after her, thinking she'd already made her escape. But, only after he'd leave, would she finally go to make her exit. Everything was going as planned. The three toed Pokemon stopped searching, its trainer gesturing wordlessly for them to exit. Perfect. Now-

  RING! RI-

  Silence followed. Then, it was broken by Ellie's unsteady breaths. Her hands fumbled with the screen, staring Brendan's contact. Declining the call as quickly as possible. But, by that point, she knew it was too late. Those hideous boots shifted slightly, turning back.

  "Do you want to come out? Or would you like me to force you out by the throat?"

  Ellie shuddered. Breaths heavy, she crawled from underneath the table, Mudkip still held firm in her grasp. But, the Water type begged to be free, wiggling out and hitting the floor. It stumbled, injured leg giving way. Yet, it still attempted to cry out. Make its resistance seem like something other than futility.

  "Oh, and so you have returned," the man mocked the Water type. His steps thudded against the floor, carrying a weight that made Ellie wince with every step. Mudkip's determination faded into nothingness. Its body shivering, cries going coarse, until it made no sound at all. Hardened hands grabbed around the Water type's body, squeezing its torso with his grip. Mudkip thrashed in his grip.

  "D-Don't touch-"

  Ellie attempted to make a stand. But, he didn't spare her a second glance. Merely snapped his fingers, commanding his Pokemon forward. Toxicroak burst in front of its trainer with a blinding speed Ellie couldn't track. The young girl hesitated. Venom secreted from its claw, threatening to strike her for attempting to resist. Ellie fell backwards. Toxicroak held a fist forward, near enough to her throat to be a threat.

  "You're pathetic," Gladius continued to berate Mudkip, striking it with a backhand across the face. The Pokemon whimpered, nearly going limp in his grip. But, clinging onto consciousness enough to hear his next words. "You'd think the trips down the river would toughen you up. But, no. You probably just whined at the riverside until a trainer came to your aid."

  The man finally addressed Ellie. Her chest heaved up and down, fingers scratching against the floor, her body nearly frozen with fear.

  "And, of course, you had to pick a child."

  Mudkip whimpered in his grip. An action Ellie would've described as pleading for mercy. An action Gladius would describe as pointlessly grovelling. Letting out a growl, the man threw Mudkip to the floor. Had it not been for Ellie's quick reactions, Mudkip'd have slammed against the floor. But, Ellie's grasp just about managed to catch Mudkip, bringing the Pokemon into her embrace. But, not before Toxicroak dashed towards her, bladed claw to her throat.

  "You have no place here, child," Gladius addressed Ellie directly. "Especially not with my Pokemon."

  "Y-You can'-"

  Toxicroak's grip tightened. Its claw came ever closer, just barely stopping before venom touched skin. sharp claw reached the tip of Ellie's throat. But, Ellie could see the poison secreting from it. The toxin that threatened to burn away at her skin, take her breath away, eat at the flesh that lay below. Her body shuddered, tears beginning to form in her eyes.

  "You shouldn't have got involved. Mudkip would've found its way back to me anyways." Gladius walked beside Toxicroak, observing the two. "It needs the pain. It needs a trainer. Pokemon are wild creatures. They need to be controlled, used for our sakes. All methods are fair, for that goal."

  Ellie attempted to open her mouth to answer back. But, the poison tip kept her mouth shut. Tears falling down her face. One swipe from it would be her end. The man snickered, tempting her to respond.

  "Even if its in the cage, like you see today. That's all they're there for. Our use."

  No response.

  "Glad to hear nothing. Shows you might be able to make the rational choice. Even if it doesn't fit the vision of 'great hero' you likely have in mind." the man gestured towards his Pokemon. Toxicroak finally backed away. Ellie's head leaned forward again, coughing, gasping for air she didn't know she had lost. Gladius cast a shadow over her. "Now, you have a choice. Either Toxicroak gets to test out its venom on you. Or, you give up the Pokeball, never speak of this place again, and leave unharmed."

  Ellie's arms clenched tighter around her Pokemon. Her body freezing, locked into place, eyes desperately looking at the man. Pleading without words. But, the man continued as if nothing had happened.

  "Some people say even a scratch can turn out fatal. Would you like to find out, or would you like to live?"

  A long silence followed. Ellie clenched tighter, tears continuing to fall. Her eyes fell onto Mudkip.

  "W-What would happen to Mudkip?" Ellie dared to ask, but not face the man she questioned.

  "The same thing that would happen to you. Should you refuse."

  Mudkip's eyes widened. Thrashing in the child's grip, it begged to be free. Either way, Ellie would be condemning one of them to Toxicroak's wrath. Their bodies shivered, one against another. Toxicroak let its poison drip against the floor. Pooling on the ground, acid marking the concrete flooring below. A cold look in its eyes told her of no hesitation to strike either of them. No doubt toughened by the cage, as shown by its scars.

  Ellie couldn't breathe. Like a poisonous gas surrounded her, swallowing her whole, not giving a moment for her to let go. Mudkip looked up. Eyes pleading, begging Ellie to stay. For them to be alongside each other. But, those cries were drowned out. Just as much as the man's shouts, taunting her about making the right choice, when she knew there was no such thing. But...

  Ellie didn't want to die.

  "I-I can't do it."

  Ellie reached into her backpack. Out emerged Mudkip's Pokeball. Paint chipped at every edge. The Mud Fish's eyes glistened with tears. Clawing at her worn sweater, tears streaming like a river, begging for her to stay. But, a glance to the poison that dripped on the floor said nothing was worth it at this point. Ellie raised the Pokeball into the air. Then, she felt his cold nails touch against hers, as he scooped up the Pokeball. A narrow gap opened between his Pokemon.

  Ellie could've given Mudkip one final stroke. But, she couldn't bring herself to face its expression. Merely to set the Pokemon down on the floor, then lift herself to her feet.

  "Thank you for taking the easy way out. I don't like murdering children."

  Ellie's chills grew stronger. Mudkip's cries echoed through the room. Her cries translated in her head, knowing they were begging for her to come back. Save Mudkip from whatever fate it had in store. But, she couldn't. Ellie didn't have the strength to do it. To stand up to him. His Pokemon. Brave whatever toxic death that awaited her, if she dared to speak against the man.

  Should I have the strength, I'd smack whoever was so neglectful to Mudkip.

  Ellie stopped. The thought tore through her mind. Sending all fear, panic, memories of the past to the sidelines. Her shaken hand brushed against the stinging tears. Sickness washed over her body. Stronger than ever before. All of this would be for nothing. Doing everything for the sake of her Pokemon, only to turn and abandon it at the very last moment.

  Her Pokemon.

  Ellie wasn't worthy of anything. Spitting in the face of honesty, even in her own mind. The man was right. She couldn't be a hero. Just a leech that left everyone around her worse off. Not a benefit to anyone. Mudkip had believed in her. And, with that trust, she'd tossed it aside. Trampled it beneath her boots, left to rot with whatever fate she hadn't the guts to face herself.

  Blood trickled through her fingers, leaving a trail behind her as she attempted to walk. But, she only made one step before Ellie stopped again. Every drip echoed through her mind. The blood on her hands would never run clean, knowing she condemned Mudkip to a fate it didn't deserve. A fate she deserved far more than Mudkip ever could.

  She couldn't be selfish. Ellie had to find her strength. To make good on everything she'd been given. Even despite what she didn't deserve. Hands clenched into fists. Blood continued to spill through, even despite the closed knuckles. Nothing would stop the blood spilling. Other than one thing. Facing the man. Getting back her Pokemon. The one she'd fought for.

  The one she'd fight for now.

  She turned.

  A splatter of blood ran up the wall.

  His burst lip dribbled blood. A huff escaped his lips, thumb drawn against his mouth, stained crimson. Just a mere annoyance, a small injury. But, to Gladius, it was far more than that. A rejection of mercy. His face scrunched up.

  "Toxicroak. Kill her."

  The toad nodded. Ellie raised her fists. Turtling up, she winced. Gashes of poison running along her skin was what she expected next. Yet, when she reopened her eyes, she found none of it. Just her body tense, watching Toxicroak. The Pokemon stood stationary, before dropping to one knee. Mudkip's head had rammed into the Poison type's leg.

  "You little shi-"

  The man never finished that sentence. A Water Pulse smacked him in the jaw before he could. The Pokeball fumbled from his grip, Gladius stumbling against the table. Mudkip dived after the ball, head sending the ball rolling to Ellie's feet. Ellie scrambled to the floor, holding it tight. Then, her legs carried her out the room before her thoughts could catch up to her surroundings. Mudkip ran alongside her, the adrenaline outweighing the pain of its injured leg.

  "AFTER HER!"

  Ellie didn't make a fuss of blending in anymore. Any chance of a stealth mission evaporated as soon as she'd blown the door open. Now, to make a ruckus. Mudkip handled itself, slipping through with its small frame effortlessly. But, Ellie wouldn't be afforded the same luxury. So, she did what she could. Barging her way through, throwing whatever empty chairs lay out onto the floor. Tripping hazards awaiting Toxicroak. Eyes set on her, watching her movements closely. Yet, only a couple gave chase, one soaking wet as he ran after her.

  Ellie fumbled down the stairs, clinging to the wall so as to not completely lose her balance. Mudkip couldn't be afforded that same luxury, weak leg giving way, crashing down to the floor. It let out a soft whimper, until scooped up in Ellie's arms. The girl shot a glance at the oncoming chasers. The toad began to show. Ellie's legs carried her once more.

  A glass shattered against the floor as Ellie pushed another table to the ground. Chairs went tumbling once more, feeling the eyes burning the back of her head. But, whatever discomfort she felt from prying eyes paled to the terror baked into her bones. Ellie heaved one of the wooden doors open, quickly passing through. Mudkip turned to face the spectators. Bidding one final goodbye, leaving a Water Pulse for the all the sinners inside. The doors shut just before the collision, but Ellie could still hear the groans of angry spectators through the walls.

  Ellie let out a sigh of relief as the door shut. But, she couldn't afford to sit still for more than a second The vision of that Toxicroak still haunted her memory. Couldn't be anywhere near to here. Her first instinct was to call Brendan. But, with Mudkip crying in her arms, she quickly moved forward. Climbing up the long staircase, a faint light glistened just ahead. The light at the end of the tunnel, shining brighter as Ellie reached the door, pushing it open. Mudkip dived through, beckoning her through.

  If only it were that simple.

  Ellie held open the door for a moment, shoulder keeping it upright as she wiggled out. Almost all of her body was out, when the trapdoor began to sway. Ellie's shoulder shifted, letting the trapdoor drop back onto the ground. And, right onto Ellie's ankle.

  A shrill scream echoed through the forest, Ellie's already teary eyes breaking out in streams, chest heaving with heavy breaths. Yanking her leg from the trapdoor, it fell with a thud. Mudkip yipped for her to get up, unaware of her injury. So, she did, taking one leg, before attempting to stand on two. But, when her balance pivoted, her injured ankle gave way. Her balance toppled, tumbling to the ground, and down the incline they found themselves upon.

  A tree roughly halted her momentum, slamming into her side. Mudkip slipped from her grasp, taking its own tumble, but coming out of the whole interaction a whole of a lot better. Ellie stubbornly tried to stand. But, her leg gave way again. Blinking twice, she looked back at the incline. The trapdoor began to budge, metallic grinding echoing through the route.

  Mudkip's cry caught her attention. It pointed towards a small hole in the ground, hidden behind a tree. Clawing her way through the dirt, Ellie arrived at the hole, throwing herself in without a second thought.

  Rough dirt rattled against her skin. Digging deeper holes into the fabric of her sweater. Seedot, who had built the hole for their own protection, shuddered at the sight of the intruders. Initially, cries echoed out into the forest, begging for help. But, upon their notice of her tremors, they went silent.

  A raspy cough left her throat. Her lungs were set ablaze. She attempted to stifle it. Remain calm, stow her fear. Make no sound. Hide away. But, she couldn't help the cough in her throat. Mudkip huddled close, paws digging into her cardigan. It looked for any way it could help. But, ultimately, they found nothing.

  "I KNOW YOU'RE OUT HERE!"

  The voice thundered through the forest. The fluttering of wings followed, Taillows disturbed from their rest, scared into retreat. Furious stomps crushed the foliage below like the crackling of bones. Ellie held her breath. Fighting back against every hacking cough. None of the Pokemon made a sound. Whatever sort of enemy or ally Ellie was to the Seedot, they knew that whatever lay out there was a much greater threat.

  The man didn't speak again. Just trudged through the leaves. Thudded against the earth. No enjoyment in the chase. No taunting Ellie. Just a mission to achieve. Not one that he would give up easily, either. Ellie reached for her phone. Slightly cracked with her fall. But, with a much more pressing issue. A desperate text message to Brendan. Asking for help, giving him her location. He'd called her earlier. Surely, he'd be on the look out now.

  But, what if it were to tell her he was in trouble? Gotten lost somewhere in the route? Even if he was looking for her, he'd check the place where he left her first. Far away from here. He'd never get in time. Brendan could handle being lost himself. But, for Ellie...

  ...

  "I-I'm sorry..."

  Ellie croaked under her breath. Mudkip turned to face the young girl.

  "I'm sorry for g-giving you up..."

  Her hand grazed over the top of Mudkip's head. Mudkip eased into the motion, tears flowing from its eyes. All was forgiven. But, Mudkip could only let out a soft murmur as acceptance of her apology. Ellie didn't hear it. But, somehow, understood it enough to feel a weight lift from her chest. Now, only karma's way lay ahead. Everything coming back to her. Fixing her up for a year, dangling her partner in front of her, only to snatch it all away in an instant.

  Only one thing left to say.

  "Thank you."

  "I CAN HEAR YOU!"

  The man finally bellowed at the top of his lungs. The background chittering of a young girl's voice had finally gotten annoying enough for his anger to boil over. Snarling, while two pairs of feet crunched against the floor. The echo of dripping poison sounded not too far from her hiding place. It wouldn't be long. Ellie closed her eyes, resting upon the dirt mound behind her. Letting out one last sigh, one last breath.

  "Who are you shouting at?"

  Ellie's eyes burst open. The voice was familiar.

  Quivering hands brushed away her tears, then clawed against the dirt. Mudkip trudged behind her carefully. Ellie's arm blocked Mudkip from exiting too hastily. Instead, her head barely peaked from the top of the hole. Eyes tracking, making sure she was out of sight of either trainer or Pokemon. But, she was in the clear. They stood a good distance away. Staring, on guard. Ellie's heart lifted from her stomach.

  A man with a long white lab coat. Brendan.

  "None of your business, lab rat," the man snarled, Toxicroak planting its feet, arms stretched out in front. Toxins dripped from its claws. Brendan didn't hesitate to answer. A swish of his lab coat revealed a belt of Pokeballs, one clicking and falling right into his palm.

  "Well, I couldn't help but overhear you hollering at nothing. I just wanted to get involved to make sure no one gets hurt." Brendan spoke, voice dripped in faux kindness. Getting under his skin, pressing the man to see what he would do next. The man smirked, humming,

  "You've got some nerve. You should watch yourself first."

  "I could say the same for you," Brendan dropped the act, eyes sharpening, Pokeball dropping against the floor. A tall, green reptile slunk from the Pokeball. Standing ever so slightly shorter than Brendan, with blades sticking out its arms at both sides. Yellow orbs ran down the length of its back, leading down to a bushy tail. Gladius didn't make any concessions on ground. But, Ellie did see his face scrunch up. "Did I hear that correct? Lab rat, you said?"

  "You don't know what I'm capab-"

  "Neither do you. I'm sure attacking one of the region's two leading professors would get you only the best type of attention," Brendan let out a dry snicker. "That is with the assumption you even stand a chance. Which, I assure you, is misguided."

  The man was silent for once. Toxicroak took a glance at its trainer, awaiting a command. Yet, none came. The man just clenched his fist, growling again. Brendan ignored him.

  "So, now that we've reached an understanding, I'd suggest you crawl back to whatever cesspowl you spawned, and get lost."

  ...

  "Let's go, Toxicroak."

  A ten hundred ton weight left Ellie's shoulder. The man turned, Toxicroak in tow. The toad's eyes darted between the two. Then, it followed without another word, keenly aware of the price of disobedience. Especially for a fight Toxicroak doubted it could win. The crunching of leaves followed, the sound echoing faintly through the forest. Brendan's eyes remained fixed upon the man. Waiting until he disappeared out of sight. Then, allowing himself a moment to breathe.

  "Alright..." he first muttered under his breath, before taking quick glances at the copse surrounding him. Nothing appeared at first. He figured as much. It'd be up to him to coax whatever lay hiding out into the open. "You're safe now! I promise!"

  His tone returned to one Ellie had grown more accustomed to. The first tone he ever heard him speak with. Seems he practiced it. Everything felt the same. Even down to the wetness of her tears stinging against Ellie's face. Approaching him with heavy breaths, grunting as she attempted to walk. But, only for her to come crashing down to the ground.

  "ELLIE!"

  Brendan dived to her assistance. But, Sceptile got there faster. Catching her just before her entire body collapsed against the ground. Only her knees ended up hitting the floor. The professor rushed over, holding her in a tight hug. Then, noticing everything wrong with her. Her outfit soaked, hair in a knotted mess. Legs weak, shivering all over. Then, the weakened starter trailing by her side. Brendan let her go, holding Ellie by her shoulders. "What happened? You're drenched, and your leg, what ha-"

  Ellie dropped forward. Brendan's instincts clenched her tight. Soon, his lab coat became drenched in tears. Wailing, ugly tears. Letting out every emotion she felt inside. Anger, pain, deja vu, confusion, fear. All of it came out in a cavalcade of streaming tears, dripping from her shining eyes. Brendan took a deep breath, stowing his emotions. Just patting her on the back of the head, muttering that it'd be ok.

  "I-I just wanna g-go home..."

  Her plead came out muffled. Her shaken vocals breaking down, to the point Brendan struggled to even hear her request. But, it didn't take a professor to know what she meant. Brendan's eyes returned to Mudkip. Its paws clung around her foot, providing whatever comfort it could. But, it did little. Brendan glanced back, cautious of backup sneaking up. But, Sceptile standing on guard ensured nothing of the sort. Only them, and the Seedot that had trudged out of their hiding spot, checking on Ellie and Mudkip.

  "Let's get you somewhere safe..." Brendan muttered. Ellie could only nod. Brendan grabbed Tropius' Pokeball, letting the Grass type loose. Its wings thundered. But, Ellie couldn't be afraid of it anymore. Especially as its neck craned in their direction, worry lit on its face. The Fruit Pokemon flattened out, body as low to the ground as possible. Brendan grabbed tight hold of her hands, gently raising Ellie to her feet.

  "Easy does it..." he muttered as softly as possible. Ellie placed weight on her left foot easily, carrying her to one knee. But, when she attempted to do the same for her right foot, she found herself stumbling. Brendan was there to catch her. Ellie winced, crying out. Heavy breaths left her mouth, trying to keep herself stable. Tropius shifted ever so slightly closer to the two of them. Sceptile looked to Brendan. The two nodded.

  Brendan and Sceptile both heaved under Ellie, lifting her onto Tropius' back. Mudkip followed behind, crying out, pleading eyes meeting Brendan. The professor reached down, the Water type thrashing in his grip. But, immediately settling once its cheek found the cool touch of Ellie's sweater. Brendan hopped onto Tropius, returning Sceptile back to its Pokeball. Then, with a pat on its head, it took to the skies.

  The ride was completely silent. Ellie hadn't the strength to speak yet. Brendan didn't know what to say. Once, he had been so excited to show her the pictures he had gathered of Ralts. Called her, so she might have the chance to see the one in the wild herself. But, that all felt wholly insignificant now. Threatened, injured, and with a rare starter trailing by her side, looking like it wanted to kill Brendan for even sharing the same air as her. Not the trusting type, clearly.

  Mudkip, at least, dedicated most of its efforts to attempting to cheer Ellie up. But, Mudkip found its skills woefully lacking. The young girl just looked through her starter. Brushing its blue skin, but not giving more than an exhale out of her nose as a response. Eventually, Mudkip gave up its attempts. Tucking its body, resigning itself to thoughtless head strokes, and intense thoughts of the past.

  Ellie's mind blurred into a haze. Where life went by, but without any memory of it. Should she awaken once more, she'd recall nothing from her time in the blur. Only being left with a deep sense of nausea. The cloud's fluttered by her. Great wings flapped underneath her. Yet, Ellie took no notice of it all.

  All she wanted was home.

  Ellie was staring at the ceiling.

  It had been an eventful few hours that Ellie barely remembered. Picked up and dropped off by a hulking mound of rock and metal that Ellie vaguely recognised from one of her books. Then, forced to endure May's professional health evaluation. Luckily, it didn't last too long, once May rolled down Ellie's socks. A sprained ankle. Meant she was bedridden for a few days, with her ankle wrapped in a cast and raised on top of a pillow.

  After that medical examination, she had expected the questions to start rolling in. But, silence. They accepted Mudkip like it had always been there by Ellie's side, and didn't question the method or motive behind Ellie being in possession of its Pokeball. All May did was take it away for an evaluation. It seemed that Ellie wasn't the only one who would be put through the stress of a medical exam. But, May only had the best intentions. And, Ellie knew that both her and Mudkip needed it. Still, she couldn't help but start to worry. It had been half an hour since May left with Mudkip to check up on it, and she hadn't heard a peep since.

  At least she had her laptop and notebook to keep herself company. It was painful returning back to that black, horrible building again. But, it felt a necessary pain. Letting everything out on the page. It'd make explaining easier. Maybe she wouldn't fall to a blubbering mess of tears. Although, Ellie doubted it.

  "Hi, Ellie..." Brendan's voice sounded from behind the door. Ellie didn't jump. Instead, her neck craned so their eyes met. Staring for a moment, before Brendan awkwardly coughed. "D-Do you mind if I come in? Or, would you like some time alone?"

  "You can come in."

  Ellie set aside her laptop, slipping it under her bed, then locking away her notebook. Brendan pushed the door open, gently closing it after him. The faint cries of the starters echoed down the corridor. Ellie's heart jumped at Mudkip's cry. But, she knew it wasn't hers. Then, her heart settled again. The professor pulled up a chair from her desk, sitting down to face Ellie. He inhaled. Better to rip off the bandage now.

  "W-"

  "Is Mudkip okay?"

  Ellie's voice croaked. But, she pushed through before Brendan could begin the interrogation. Ellie'd rather know her Pokemon were safe before she could deal with the events that had transpired to saving the little guy. Brendan looked back at the door, hoping May would appear with Mudkip to put Ellie's worries at ease. Not with words, but with actions. Unluckily for him, however, words were all he had.

  "May's been taking good care of Mudkip. She's just being thorough, no cause for worry." Brendan's eyes glanced down the length of the bed, glancing to Ellie's injured ankle. "How's your leg?"

  "It's...fine..." Ellie gritted through her teeth, unconvincingly. Truthfully, it hurt like a Beedrill's stinger. But, there wasn't anything much she could do about that. So, no need to voice that frustration. Brendan nodded in understanding, leaning back on the chair, trying to remember where he had first lost his train of thought. His brain eventually drifted back, looking down at the notebook. He knew the answers to what he wanted to ask lay in there. But, Ellie would sooner burn the book alive than let him take a peak underneath. So, he'd have to fish the truth out through her speech.

  "What happened?" he muttered. Ellie sighed. The interrogation had begun. She had expected it, and prepped to answer. Opening her mouth, she spilled her guts of everything that had happened. The river, nursing Mudkip, the escape. The danger. The fear. The confusion and pain so strong she felt it in Mudkip too.

  Emotions swelled within Ellie. A rollercoaster unlike anything she'd felt in a very long time. Brendan listened all the while, only ever interrupting to ask questions. But, those were few and far between. Ellie already knew most of what he wished to know, and sought to clear up everything. Just so she wouldn't have to repeat the story again. Or dwell on it any longer.

  "Then, I found you," Ellie finally finished, taking a deep breath. She faked a smile, "That's all."

  A long silence followed. Ellie's smile wavered, until it settled into a frown. Brendan opened his arms. Ellie reached forward.

  "I'm so sorry." Brendan hugged her gently, rubbing the back of her head. "I should've been there with you. I just wanted you to experience the wonder of the world for yourself. Then, that call-"

  "H-He'd have found me anyways," Ellie answered, putting Brendan's mind at ease, even if it wasn't necessarily true. "Plus, you saved me in the end. So, I'd say we're even."

  "Not until that man is locked away are we even. People like that have no place running around freely. Nor do places like that have any place in the world."

  "I knew it happened. But...seeing it in person...I can't get it out of my head."

  "Some people just refuse to see Pokemon as anything more than objects for our use. We know they're more than that. But, they'll never see as such." Brendan tugged away from their hug. Then, he sighed. "I just know one thing."

  "That man? That monster? He will never harm you again. That place won't last a moment longer, and I will do everything in my power to make sure those people never hurt anyone, or any Pokemon again." Brendan looked deep into Ellie's eyes. "I'm so proud of you. Whatever that man said isn't true. You're a hero. Facing danger, with no guarantee of safety. For saving Mudkip. I can't think of a better da-"

  Brendan took a momentary pause, giggling.

  "Sorry. I'm just...you're the best apprentice we could ask for."

  A smile found its way onto Ellie's face. Somehow, the praise had landed this time. Ellie dryly chuckled.

  "Thank you..." Ellie brought Brendan back into a tight hug, only for a moment. Then, she let go, asking, "So, what happens with Mudkip, then?"

  "What do you mean? It's yours now."

  "But, what about the age limit?"

  "Ellie, you went through hell and back for Mudkip. Forget any age limits, Mudkip chose you." Brendan chuckled. "What, do you think a couple of Pokemon professors are gonna let our apprentice not have a Pokemon partner of her own? Absolutely not!"

  "Especially when its face is this cute!" May exclaimed, bumping the door open with her hips, knocking it against the wall. Then, she emerged, with a beaming Mudkip sitting in her hands. Ellie's face lit up, her arms extended. Mudkip instantly leapt out of May's arms, landing on Brendan's beanie, then jumping straight into her arms.

  "Mudkip! I was getting worried!" Ellie muttered, rubbing the Water type under the chin.

  "Nothing to be worried about. Its got a few injuries, but they'll heal with proper care, just as yours will," May answered. Ellie examined Mudkip's form. Its scrapes and minor cuts were covered in plasters where May could see them. Any cuts appearing on Mudkip's body that weren't covered were already scars that went untreated, so there was no point putting a bandage over it and pretending that would fix anything. It'd be a waste of medical supplies, if anything.

  The only major thing that changed was the choice of bandage around Mudkip's hind leg. No longer did it have to contend with Ellie's amateurish knowledge of wrapping bandages, wrapped with a similar looking cast as Ellie.

  "Looks like we're matching." Ellie smiled, pointing Mudkip to the edge of the bed where her sprained ankle sat. Mudkip nodded, excitedly jumping up and down, before landing on its hind leg and dropping to the bed with a heavy thud. May cringed, commenting,

  "Yeah, maybe tell Mudkip to sit still. It won't heal if it keeps jumping around."

  "Right, right," Ellie responded, placing Mudkip down on her lap. She set the Water type on the back, and rubbed its belly. Soon, it forgot all about the pain it felt in its leg, easing into the affection it was given. May set down the Pokeball by her bed, smiling and saying,

  "We were planning on giving you a starter as soon as you left for your journey. But, it seems the starter has already made its way to you."

  "Yes, it has," Ellie declared, turning to Mudkip, rubbing a finger against its spiked cheeks. Then, she faced the two professors. "Do you mind if we're alone for a moment?"

  "Of course not. Just call us if you need anything." Brendan waved his Rotom Phone as he made his exit. May took one last look at Mudkip, the starter purring under Ellie's calming touch. Pride glowed in her smile, before she too fell out of the room. The door clicked behind them. Ellie continued for a moment, watching her starter closely. Then, her hand lifted, reaching over to her rucksack by the bed.

  Deep inside, she retrieved the worn Pokeball. Scratches, scars and marks of woe written all over. It dropped to the bed. Mudkip eyed it for a moment. Then, glanced up to Ellie. Ellie observed the ball closely.

  "Well, we have it now. Nothing to stop us." Ellie pouted. "But, I don't want to use this one."

  Mudkip tilted its head.

  "This isn't our Pokeball. This is someone else's." Ellie's fingers grazed against the surface. Against the rusted steel, chipped paint, worn plastic button. Dirt clung to it. Signs of disrepair. That no one cared to clean its surface even once. Ellie's eyes trailed to Mudkip. Its paw raised up to tap against the device. Some sentiment still held within. But, whatever sentiment remained buried under a cycle of abuse Mudkip had wished to see an end to for so long.

  Looking in her emerald eyes, Mudkip finally saw the finale of it all.

  "We need our own, don't you think?" Ellie reached into the rucksack. Retrieving another. The dysfunctional one. The first she had tried. Mudkip recognised it. It trudged towards the ball, placing a paw against the button. Not applying any pressure yet. It wouldn't do anything, anyways. They made eye contact once more. "So, what do you say? Let's destroy our past, and make good on the future."

  Mudkip nodded. The worn Pokeball opened. The flimsy hatch that held the two halves of the Pokeball together rattled. Ellie held it forward, allowing Mudkip the honours. Its mouth opened, biting down on the hatch. The device shattered into two halves. Circuitry and wiring severed.

  Then, the new one. Their very own. Ellie held the Pokeball close. Mudkip trudged along. Their heads brushed against one another. Its blue fin brushed against her blonde hair.

  Mudkip's paw pressed against the button. It burst into a crimson light. Mudkip let out a cry, fading into the Pokeball. The Pokeball opened, then snapped shut. One. Two. Three.

  CLICK!

  Ellie smiled, feeling her heart race just where she held the Pokeball.

  Maybe, this could be the start of something new. Proving herself, with Mudkip right by her side.

  Their hearts beating as one.