Chapter 7: Unexpected Reunion

I pushed the front door open and poked my head inside the house. I couldn't hear the TV or anyone talking, so that was a good thing. I carefully scanned the hall and the stairs before slowly opening the door wider so the hinges didn't squeak. I turned to Dust and pressed my finger to my lips. Dust nodded and pressed his massive jaws together. We crept into the house and closed the door quietly behind us. I double-checked the living room to make sure it was empty. There was no one inside. I began tip-toeing toward the stairs with Dust close behind.

Just as my foot touched the bottom step, a voice said: “Y'know, you would make a terrible thief."

I froze. I knew that voice. I looked into the living room again. Bryce was standing in the middle of the room with a big smile on his face. People said we looked a lot alike, but I didn't see it. He had a narrow face and dark brown eyes. My face was rounder, and my eyes were lighter. Also, Bryce's hair was nowhere near as long as mine.

I rushed across the living room and wrapped my arms around my brother's waist. “Bryce! You're back! When did you get here?"

“Just a few minutes ago," Bryce said, straining with every word. “It's nice to see you too, Maya, but I kinda like my insides on the inside."

I let go. “How long are you back for?"

He shrugged. “Just for a few days. I have to get to Anistar City before—" His smile dropped when he looked at my face. “What the hell happened to you?"

I threw my hair over my face and shrugged. “Don't know what you're talkin' bout, bro."

Bryce brushed my hair out of the way and turned my face up to his. I winced when he ran his thumb over the cut on my cheek. “Were you fighting again?"

“No!" I said quickly. I turned away when he stared at me. “…Yes. But it was different this time."

Bryce rolled his eyes and motioned for me to follow him. “C'mon. Let's get you cleaned up before mom and dad come home and see that."

Bryce led me to the downstairs bathroom, where he pointed to the toilet. “Sit," he commanded.

I did as I was told. Dust warbled and jumped into my lap.

Bryce grabbed the first-aid kit from the shelf in the corner. He sat it on the sink and gave me a disapproving look before digging around inside. It didn't take long for him to pull out a pack of antiseptic wipes.

I groaned loudly. “Aw c'mon, Bryce, you know I hate that stuff. It stings."

“You should've thought about that before you started picking fights," Bryce stated, opening the pack. “I swear, Maya, you don't even have your trainer license yet and you're already beating up the neighborhood kids."

I winced when Bryce dabbed my cut with the wipe. “I didn't start the fight. Tyreese was talking shit again—"

“Hey, language," my brother warned. “Mom and Dad may not be here to tell you off, but I won't have my nine-year-old sister talking like that. Now tell me what happened—without the swearing."

I sighed and rolled my eyes. “Tyreese challenged me to a Pokémon battle. When I beat him, he called me a cheater. He said there's no way a trashy Pokémon like Dust could beat his mom's Raichu, so I punched him in the nose."

“Since you're my little sister, I know you didn't cheat, right?"

“Right. Tyreese was just mad because I beat his mom's Raichu."

“Wait, you battled Mrs. Blackwood's Raichu? The same prized Raichu she spoils rotten? The one she pushes around in a stroller?"

“Yep," I said, chuckling. “Dust whupped it good."

Bryce didn't smile. “She's gonna be pissed when she finds out."

I shrugged. “Tyreese started it; I just finished it. Ow!"

“That's what happens when you don't hold still," Bryce said. “Now, I don't need to tell you that using an electric-type like Raichu against a ground-type like Trapinch was bad idea. On top of that, Mrs. Blackwood only uses that Raichu in contests, it doesn't know the first thing about an actual battle."

“What do you mean?"

He tossed the gauze, grabbed a washcloth from the linen closet, and soaked it in water. He then used it to start washing my face. It felt more like he was trying to wipe my face off my head. “I mean, that Pokémon you battled against wasn't trained for battling, so Tyreese didn't have much of an advantage over you. If anything, he was doomed to fail."

He sat the washcloth down and put a band-aid on my face. It was one of the plain ones. I preferred the ones with Vivillion on them, but I didn't wanna complain. “You know you can't start a fight with everyone who talks shit."

“Hey! How come you can say that, but I can't?"

“Because I'm older than you."

“Jerk," I said pouting.

Bryce laughed. “Yeah, that's one of the perks of being an older sibling. Now let's get a look at your Trapinch."

“Why?"

“You think I didn't notice that slight limp of his? I'm guessing Mrs. Blackwood's Raichu put up more of a fight then you're saying."

I turned and looked at Dust. He looked at me confused with his cross-shaped eyes. Suddenly I felt guilty. The battle wasn't easy. Dust came very close to losing except Tyreese called out the wrong move at the last second.

Bryce rinsed the washcloth in the sink and knelt next to Dust. He started wiping the dirt off his body. Dust fidgeted, not liking the water on his body, but he let my brother clean him up. “Maya, I said I wouldn't lecture you, but this needs to be said: Don't push your Pokémon just so you can win. Dust isn't registered, and you don't have a license. The League doesn't make a big deal out of it unless it's supervised, but you could get in a lot of trouble for battling without a license. You'll be lucky if Mrs. Blackwood doesn't tell when she sees what you did to her prized Raichu."

My chest tightened. “But-But it wasn't my fault!" I cried.

“The League doesn't care who started it," Bryce said sadly. He reached into his bag and pulled out a spray bottle and roll of bandages.

I looked down at my toes, trying to hold back the tears in my eyes. It didn't take long before tears started falling in my lap. It wasn't fair. I hadn't done anything wrong. It was Mrs. Blackwood's stupid son Tyreese who was mad because I embarrassed him in front of his friends.

Dust nudged my leg and looked up worriedly at me.

“Hey, Maya, what does Dust mean to you?"

I wiped my eyes and turned to Bryce. “What?"

“Dust, what is he to you?"

I had no idea what Bryce was getting at, but I answered his question. “He's my friend."

Bryce nodded. “That's good. I want you to remember that. No matter what happens, remember that Dust is your friend, okay?"

“I don't get it. Why do I need to remember that? Am I gonna forget he's my friend?"

“No, nothing like that," Bryce said, chuckling. He then looked really serious when he said, “You'll understand when you're older."

I wanted to argue that Bryce always said that when he didn't want to explain something, but I was too sad. I looked down again and nodded quietly. Dust cried out happily and nuzzled my leg again.

Bryce tapped me on the shoulder. “Hey, don't cry. I didn't mean to upset you. I'm sure Mrs. Blackwood wouldn't take your Pokémon away. Besides, the worst they can do to you is make you set him free. If that happens, I'll catch Dirt for you and hold on to him until you get your trainer license. Deal?"

I sniffled and wiped my eyes. “Okay, deal. But his name is 'Dust,' " I added, frowning.

“That's what I said."

“It is not!"

“Tell you what, you beat me in a Pokémon battle, and I'll apologize."

I gave my brother the darkest look I could. I couldn't beat him in a battle and he knew it.

I heard the sound of the front door opening, followed by mother's booming voice, “MAYA MARTIN! YOU COME HERE RIGHT NOW!"

I sighed and turned to Dust, putting on a brave face to hide how scared I really was. “Stay here. There's no point in both of us getting yelled at."

Dust shook his head and stared at me with a determined look in his eyes.

“Looks like he wants to go down with you, Maya-hem," Bryce said. “I guess he thinks of you as a friend, too."

“Thanks, Dust," I said. I took a deep breath and headed into the hall to face my mom's wrath.

****

I snapped my eyes open and sat up. It took me a minute to realize I was sitting at the kitchen table and not my bedroom. The semi-darkness of the room was a little disorienting, but once my eyes adjusted, I made sense of my surroundings. The table top was covered in papers, charts, books, letters, pictures, and newspaper clippings. It was all my notes from my search for my brother. I yawned and stretched, feeling something against my leg under the table. I peeked under the table to see Dorian and Sparks sleeping at my feet. Arbor and Aqua were on either side of me sleeping in the booth.

             Memories of last night came back in a slow, steady flow. I was gathering my old research notes from my search for Bryce, deciding whether to throw them away. It was hard to look at and not think about how I'd acted in the meantime. Looking at the papers scattered around, I assumed I was too busy going over the notes until I fell asleep.

A half-empty bottle of soda sat in the middle of the table, and I wished I had something stronger. The moment I thought of booze, my stomach tightened as if preparing to reject it. After watching my dad drink away his marriage, I could barely touch alcohol without wanting to vomit. It didn't help Cassandra's Delphox apparently had a drinking problem, and we couldn't risk having booze in the house anyway. I never spoke on it, but I knew it was either Cassandra's fault her Pokémon was a drunk or she had a problem with drinking too. Not that I could blame her; whenever I visited Patrick's house, there was a tension in the air whenever Cassandra was mentioned or entered the room. I never asked about the specifics of her childhood; it didn't seem like a happy one.

I yawned again and started gathering the papers when the back door opened. All of my Pokémon lifted their heads and faced the door. Cassandra came inside, sweaty and a little out of breath with her Furret, Fury perched on her shoulder. The way Fury curled his long, skinny body around her neck, it was easy to mistake him for a brown scarf. That was until one of his ears moved and he looked at me. His blinked his beady black eyes and chittered softly as if in greeting.

Cassandra gave a quick nod in my direction and said, “ 'Morning," before going to the fridge.

“It's morning?" I grumbled. “What are you doing up this early?"

“Pretty much. It's around seven o'clock, but I think that counts." She pulled out a bottle of water from the fridge and pointed at the papers on the table. “I'm always up this morning to work-out. What's with the homework?"

“It's my notes from when I was searching for Bryce," I said.

“I thought you gave that up?" Cassandra sat an empty bowl on the counter and filled it with water from the bottle. Fury hopped off her shoulders onto the counter and lapped at the water eagerly.

“I did. I was getting the papers together…to burn them," I said, growing quieter until it was a whisper near the end.

Cassandra's eyes widened. “Burn them? That's a bit dramatic, don't you think?"

I shrugged. “It's the only way to make sure I don't feel tempted to go back again. This part of my life is over. I can't go forward if I'm thinking about the past. With this, maybe it'll feel—Are you even listening to me?"

Cassandra was staring out the window behind her and didn't answer. Before I could what she was looking at, she dropped the water bottle and rushed to the back door. “Something's wrong with Ian."

I jumped up and hurried out the door after her all our Pokémon close behind. Ian was being carried toward the house by his Lucario, Lulu, and his Ampharos, Flux. The two Pokémon were shorter than their trainer, so Ian had to hunch over to lean on them and avoid being dragged. All three of them were covered in leaves and dirt like improvised camouflage. Lulu looked like a walking ball of blue dust as she dragged her feet beside her trainer. The cream-colored fur covering her torso two shades darker, making the large pink x-shaped scar on her chest stand out.

Flux didn't have any fur or hair, so he didn't look any different other than the leaves and dirt clinging to his yellow body. He had a dark bruise on his cheek. His black-stripped ears were peeled back in irritation as he attempted to hold his trainer up. His tail dragged on the ground behind him, the red orb at the end of his tail and in the middle of his forehead glowing dimly almost as if signaling an SOS.

Cassandra and I jumped off the porch and hurried to them. Lulu barked with relief when we took over carrying Ian. Sparks and Aqua circled around Lulu while Fury and Abor ran to Flux. As we walked back to the house I scanned Ian for any injuries. Other than a few scratches on his face and that he was limping, I couldn't see anything wrong with him. There was no blood at least, so that was a good sign.

“What happened?" I asked.

“Uh…we were trying out a new move combination, and it…didn't work out too well. I think I sprained my ankle getting out of dodge."

“You look more like they used you for a training dummy," Cassandra said. “What the hell was this new move combination?"

“I wanted to combine Lulu's Aura Sphere with Flux's Thunderbolt. I figured it was a good way to amp up the power."

I looked back at Lulu who was nursing her paw. There were red blisters easily visible on her black paw. She licked at the wounds, wincing at the pain.

It looks like you amped the power a bit too much. “So, you limped all the way back here? Why didn't you just call Gale to carry you back?" I asked.

“I did. But you know how Gale is. She took one look at us covered in dirt and she flew off without us," Ian said.

Flux grumbled under his breath and Lulu gave him a worried look. She whined, and Flux spun on her, crying out angrily. I had no idea what Flux said, but Fury found it funny.

“Y'know, that's not a very nice thing to say," Cassandra said. “I'm sure Gale had her reasons for ditching you in the middle of the woods."

Even I was shocked she could say that with a straight face. She was probably trying to keep Flux's temper down as much as possible. If he got too worked up, he would start shooting sparks from his body then it would be dangerous to get near him.

We helped Ian onto the back porch and into one of the lawn chairs. “Thanks. I think it's just a sprained ankle; it doesn't feel like it's broken," Ian said, rubbing his right ankle. “I didn't think the attack would have that much force. Lulu could barely hold it."

“It's because they weren't in-sync," I said. “You have to remember, you can't just blend two different energies together and think they'll mix. What did they teach you guys in trainer school?"

“How to get blown up," Ian replied, smiling. Flux didn't share his humor and neither did I. Blending moves together could be dangerous if it wasn't done right. Ian was lucky Lulu only had blisters; she could've lost a paw.

“Hey, Maya, you mind going inside to fetch the first-aid kit?" Cassandra asked.

I nodded and went back into the house. Dorian was still under the kitchen table, and he lifted his head when I came in. “No, no. Don't bother getting up," I said sarcastically. I grabbed an ice-pack for Ian's ankle and first-aid for Lulu's paw. When I came back outside, Lulu had moved by Ian's side. She looked worriedly at her trainer while hiding her paw from view. Ian was smiling and reassuring her he was okay while scratching the Lucario behind the ears. Flux sat on the edge of the porch, his back turned to them and a sour look on his face.

Seeing Lulu at Ian's side like that pissed me off. She needed to have her paw looked at, and Ian didn't seem to even care that Pokémon could be hurt. I walked over and pulled Lulu away more forcefully than I meant to and tossed the ice pack onto Ian's lap. She could've easily resisted but didn't. Ian cried out from the sudden shock to his crotch and gave me a quizzical look.

I ignored him and tended to Lulu. First, I took her into the kitchen, so I could clean the dirt off her paw. This time Aqua followed us. She whined when I held it under the faucet. I patted her head and said as gently as I could, “I know it hurts, but I have to treat this it doesn't get worse." She nodded in understanding and didn't make any more noises although her face was twisted in pain. Aqua had followed us inside, and she kept nudging Lulu and saying things to her to distract the Lucario. Once Lulu's paw was clean, I rubbed ointment on the blisters then wrapped her paw in a bandage. Finally, I took a pain pill from the medicine bottle and gave it to her.

“This'll take care of the pain. Now it's gonna hurt for a few days, okay? If the pain gets any worse, I want you to tell me or Cassandra right away."

Lulu nodded and swallowed the pill. Before I could say anything else, she hurried back outside. I sighed and followed her, bracing myself for what I would see when I got out there. Sure enough, Lulu was back at Ian's side. My eyes gravitated toward the pink x-shaped scar on her chest and felt my temper rise. I looked away and joined Cassandra who was standing away from porch, using the hose to rinse the dirt from Flux's body. I went over to them.

“Isn't it dangerous to spray an electric-type with water?" I asked.

“About as dangerous as spraying your TV while it's unplugged," Cassandra replied. “Flux has enough control that he won't hurt me unless he wants to."

Flux turned to me and started chattering in Pokémon language. I raised a brow and turned to Cassandra for a translation. “He wants to know how Lulu's doing," she said.

“She's fine," I said. “The blisters don't look too bad, and I gave something for the pain. I told her to come to us if it gets worse."

“Did you tell Ian she'll have to skip practice until she's healed?"

“I shouldn't have to. It won't make a difference anyway; Lulu is more worried about him than herself." I turned to Flux and decided to change the subject before I said something I regretted. “Why's your trainer practicing move combos anyway?"

“There's a tournament coming up and Ian really wanted to start training for it," Cassandra translated. “Since it's been so long since we last battled, he wanted to come up something to give us an edge."

“Well that was his first mistake. You guys have been out of practice for too long. You need to be reviewing the basics and getting back into the rhythm of things before you start trying advanced moves." I sighed and shook my head. “If Ian had come to me from the start, I would've told him that."

“In his defense, you've been pretty moody lately," Cassandra said. She shut off the hose and began gathering it back up. “I think that's why he goes to Lumiose City to train. That and he's afraid of disappointing you."

“Why does he care what I think?" I asked.

“Wow, you can be pretty dense. He respects you, remember? He's friends with a Champion—"

“Ex-Champion."

“Whatever. The point is, he thinks he needs to impress you. Given the way you snap at him when he says something wrong, I don't blame him for thinking that way."

I rolled my eyes. “It still wouldn't kill him to ask for help."

Cassandra leaned in and lowered her voice. “Then you should tell him that."

Before I could argue, there was a loud, panicked cry. A few seconds later we saw Ian's Goodra, Butter, hurrying toward us. Unlike typical Goodra who had purple bodies, Butter's body was more of a pale-yellow color like butter—hence the name—and he had purple eyes instead of the usual green. His pudgy body jiggled with each thundering step, sending goo flying from his body in a sickly yellow storm. Every Pokémon in his path jumped back to avoid getting caught in the fallout. The curved horns on top of his head wiggled, making me think of a worried parent flailing their arms over their head. The image caught me off-guard and I burst into laughter, making everyone raise their brows at me.

Butter shot past us without even a glance, and we followed in case he accidently smothered Ian and we had to pry the two apart. It wasn't something I looked forward to.

Lulu saw the distraught Goodra before Ian did. Instead of leaping away, she stayed where she was, staring at Butter as if her look alone could stop him.

“Butter, wait!" Ian cried, his eyes wide with panic. “It's okay, I'm fine! See? It's nothing serious, so don't worry, okay?"

Butter came to stop just a few feet from his trainer and warbled sadly. We stood there frozen as if afraid to move. Goodra were naturally friendly and sensitive, but Butter seemed sensitive by even Goodra standards. It didn't take much to make him cry which caused him to leave gooey tears all over the place. The problem was the only way to calm him down once he was upset was to give him a hug which none of us wanted to do. All Goodra were covered in a sticky slime that took forever to wash off and stained our clothes, and if we got upset about that, it made him cry even more. The last time I made the mistake of hugging Butter it took three bottles of shampoo to wash the slime out of my hair, three weeks to get rid of the smell, and I had to throw out my second favorite shirt.

Butter's eyes welled up, but he kept his cool this time. He simply nodded and sat down at Ian's feet, causing a small tremor to move through the porch.

“Don't worry, big guy, I just need to stay off my ankle for a while, and I'll be good as new," Ian said. “If you're feeling upset, I'm sure Aunty Maya will—"

“Don't make promises for me, Ian," I said darkly.

Ian cringed and said, “Never mind. Maybe Cassandra—"

“Nope," Cassandra said quickly.

“Aw, c'mon. He needs reassurance," Ian whined.

I sighed and said, “Butter, your master is gonna be just fine. If anything happens, I promise I will give you all the hugs you want, okay?"

Butter sniffled and nodded, his spirits raised.

I smiled and turned to Ian. “As for you, I'm taking over your training from now on. Don't even think about arguing with me. Right now, just focus on resting that ankle. I suggest you rest up because once you feel better, I'm gonna break you in every way I know how."

I went back inside. I scooped all the papers on the table back into the box. I sat down and stared at the box. It felt weird. I felt…lighter knowing that I was giving it all up. I expected disappointment, but maybe it was a sign I really was moving on.

“Can we talk?"

I looked over my shoulder to see Cassandra standing by the door. Fury was back on her shoulders, looking around as if searching for eavesdroppers. “What, are you worried about Ian?" I asked. “It was a figure of speech. I'm not gonna actually try to break him."

“That's not what I'm talking about." She sat down in the seat next to me. “I mean you can't be encouraging him like that."

I raised an eyebrow. “Encouraging what?"

Cassandra sighed and lowered her head. Fury nuzzled her cheek. It made me nervous. Whenever she got serious was never a good sign. “I mean—fuck it. You know when Ian's father came by a few days ago? He asked me to convince Ian to give up Pokémon training."

“Cassandra, we agreed to stay out of it."

“No, you said we should stay out of it. I said we need to do what was right for Ian as his friend."

“I am doing what's right as his friend, by staying out of his business," I replied, trying to keep my voice even. “I don't know why his dad would want his son to give up training, but it's not our call if Ian should stop or not. Neither of us have room to talk. I ran away from home to become a trainer, and your acts of rebellion are legendary."

“You're right. It's not our call—but at the same time I think we should talk to him. C'mon, Maya, you've seen Ian. The guy's smart as hell, he can come up with some strategies that'll make a veteran's head spin, but he's not cut out for this. He's too nice, and he's a little naïve."

I shrugged. “So? I wasn't the sharpest when I first started out as a trainer, and I doubt you were any better."

Cassandra had a look in her eyes as if begging me to take her word for it and not to push the issue. I folded my arms across my chest and stood my ground.

She took the hint. She sighed again. “I was talking to his Pokémon. Flux is getting frustrated with Ian's leadership, Lulu is afraid of battling, Gale couldn't care less, and Butter just goes along with whatever Ian does. The worst part is that Ian hasn't noticed any of this. I saw the look on your face when you noticed Lulu hiding she was hurt. It pisses you off. Hell, it pisses me off. We both know that Ian isn't a bad guy, but her hiding things from him isn't healthy."

I stared at the fridge. I couldn't deny Cassandra was right. It wasn't the first time Lulu pushed herself and Ian didn't notice. Back then it almost got her killed. Ian took it pretty bad. He still hadn't battled again since that day. He always talked about training and getting back into the battling circuit, but he always had an excuse at the last minute. I know he still thought about it sometimes, but it seemed he hadn't learned his lesson.

“It's still not our call, Cassandra," I said. “I know what it feels like to have someone try to make that decision for you. If you really want to help Ian, you need to let him decide. No matter what, we'll support his decision, deal?"

“…Yeah, deal."

I knew she was lying, but it was the best I was gonna get out of her. We headed back outside to the others. Ian was where we left him. Butter and Butter hadn't moved. Flux had moved closer to Ian, although he still kept his back turned.

“Hey, Ian, why'd you become a Pokémon trainer?" I asked.

“Huh?"

Cassandra jabbed me in the ribs and whispered. “Real subtle, Maya."

“I don't care about subtle. Answer the question, Ian."

“Um, why are you asking that all of a sudden?" Ian asked slowly.

“Because your dad thinks you should give up Pokémon training," I said. I avoided the glare Cassandra gave me.

A shadow passed over Ian's face. “So, my old man is recruiting outside help now?"

Cassandra and I exchanged looks. “You mean, you already know?"

“Yeah, I know. My dad's been trying to convince me to quit for years. After my mom died, he decided I wasn't fit to be a Pokémon trainer."

Flux grunted and walked away. None of the other Pokémon said anything or tried to stop him. Ian stared at his lap while playing with his hands.

“I guess that's a sensitive subject for him," I said.

“Flux was born from my mom's Ampharos," Ian explained.

“Wait, Flux's mom is gone too?" Cassandra asked. She sat down on the seat next to Ian's. “What happened?"

“Aren't you the same one who told me to be subtle?" I asked. “What makes you think he wants to talk about that?"

Ian shook his head. “It's okay, Maya. I don't mind. It happened a long time ago anyway. Ion, my mom's Ampharos, got sick. There was nothing anyone could do. Shortly after that, my mom got sick."

“That's how she died?" I asked.

Ian nodded and stared at his lap. “The old lady who lived next door said it was because she missed her Ampharos so much. My dad used to get so mad whenever she said that."

“She must've really been close with her Pokémon," Cassandra said. “I honestly don't know what'll do if something happened to any of my Pokémon."

“I can't believe she would give up knowing she had a husband and kid. How selfish can you get?" I growled. I was shocked by my reaction. Everyone except Ian stared at me in shock.

“What the fuck, Maya?" Cassandra said.

I sighed heavily and leaned on the railing. “I'm sorry, Ian, but that hit a nerve. I know it's hard to deal with losing someone you care about, but to turn your back on your kid like that knowing they don't fully understand that someone is gone and isn't coming back—" I folded my arms across my chest, unable to find the right words to express my sudden anger. “What kind of parents leave their child to figure that shit out on their own?" I mumbled.

I was suddenly pulled into a tight hug. It was Lulu, her body turned so I would be poked by the horn sticking out of her chest. Aqua joined in, wrapping her body around my legs and rubbing her face on my thigh. I wasn't really the “hugging" type, but I let the moment linger for a bit. Butter looked like he wanted to join in, but he stayed where he was which I was grateful for. Everyone else had looked away, pretending to stare at something in the distance.

“What?" I asked.

“Nothing," Cassandra said.

I gently pushed Lulu and Aqua away and turned to Ian. “I really am sorry. I shouldn't have said what I said."

Ian waved away my apology. “It's okay; I understand. I said the same thing. I was just a baby when it happened, so I don't know the exact details. My dad doesn't talk about it much."

“But why does your dad want you to stop being a trainer?" I asked.

“I don't know. He just keeps telling me that I have options. 'You don't have to become a Pokémon trainer just because everyone else in the family is one,' he says. 'I just want you to be happy doing what you love.' What I love is Pokémon training and battling. Just like my mom did."

“Uh, Ian, your dad sounds like he really cares about you," Cassandra said. “What's your problem?"

Ian slammed his fist on the arm of his chair, making half the Pokémon with us jump. “My problem is no matter how many times I tell him that being a Pokémon trainer is something I want to do, and I love doing it, he refuses to believe me! Yeah, he wants me to be happy all right, so long as it's doing something other than Pokémon training."

I turned to Cassandra, unsure of what to do or say to this. She looked at me and shrugged. Ian's dad not wanting his son to be a Pokémon trainer made no sense. It would make more sense if he was pressuring Ian to be a trainer instead. I felt like an asshole for the way I treated Ian's father. There was something we were missing, but I had no interest of getting to the bottom of it. It wasn't our business. Ian had made his decision. I planned to support him regardless. He wanted to follow in his mother's footsteps and honor her memory.

I could relate to that. “Okay, Ian. If being a trainer is what you want, then I'll back it. But first, I need to know: What are your Pokémon to you?"

Ian raised a brow and turned to each of his Pokémon who all had their heads tilted in confusion. “What kind of question is that?" he asked.

“Just answer me. What are they to you?"

“They're my friends, Maya. What else would they be?"

“Just needed to confirm something. Some people feel like their Pokémon are more than friends."

“They're Pokémon, Maya."

I noticed Flux turned away, his eyes flashing with anger. Judging from the way Cassandra was sitting stiffly, avoiding looking at the Ampharos, she noticed it, too. Flux was Ian's first Pokémon. Since most of Ian's family were Pokémon trainers, he and Flux had to grow up together. The Ampharos was also a living reminder of Ian's mother. It must sting for Flux to spend so much time with Ian and know that he wasn't considered family, and I was a little shocked by Ian's response. I wondered what Flux was thinking.

Unless they work things out, Ian's gonna have a hard time using Flux in a battle. I thought. “Okay. Like I said before, we start your training the moment your ankle heals." I rose from my seat and went back into the house.

Once back in the kitchen, I snatched the box off the table and carried it back to my room. I expected Cassandra to follow me and call me on my lie, but she didn't. Only Dorian followed me upstairs. A knot formed in my stomach and tightened with each step as a thought jumped out at me. I just made Ian my student. Technically, he was already my student, following me to tourneys and studying my techniques, but now it somehow feels…official. That meant passing on everything I knew, and everything I'd done. But what if he hates me for it?

By the time I reached the top of the stairs I wanted to throw up. How many movies and books told about this exact same scenario? The student found out something shocking about their teacher and felt betrayed. The student turned on their teacher and someone wound up dead. I knew those were just fiction, but the idea had to come from somewhere, right?

I went into my room, dropped the box in the middle of the already cluttered floor, then laid on the bed and held my stuffed Absol over my head.

“What the hell did I just sign on for?" I asked the Poké Doll. “What do I know about teaching someone how to be a good trainer? Me, the secret basket case who wishes she could turn back the clock?" The stuffed toy stared silently with lifeless, blue eyes.

“Your Pokémon love you, so I assume you did something right," Cassandra said.

I sat up. She stood in the doorway looking sad and serious. She was also alone. When she noticed I was looking at her, she walked in. “Can we talk?"

“If you want me to change my mind about helping Ian, the answer's 'no.' I am a little nervous about it, but I promised to support him."

“I'm not here to talk about that." She looked at everything except me. “I want to talk about something important."

I raised a brow at her. “Why? Is something wrong?"

Cassandra shook her head. “It's just word about this place is spreading. It's so popular that a pair of Hydreigon have decided to nest here."

My stomach flipped. Hydreigon were known for being violent. There were nothing but stories of trainers who trained Deino and Zweilous into Hydreigon only to have their Pokémon go on a violent rampage, attacking anything it set its sights on. They were so dangerous, the League made trainers apply for the right to train one. “D-Did you say, 'two?' And I'm just hearing about this now? Ian was just out there, and you didn't warn him?"

“Maya, calm down. I already talked to the Hydreigon, and they understand that they have to be nice if they want to stay here. I also had no idea Ian had run off into the woods at the crack of dawn. The problem is, some of the other Pokémon are nervous. I'm worried other Pokémon might stay away if they found out."

Cassandra's words made me feel sorry for the Hydreigon. They hadn't actually done anything, yet I was already jumping to conclusions. It was probably the same for the Pokémon. One look and the other Pokémon would attack them or humans would chase them away. It was sad when I thought about it. “What do you need?"

“I want you to meet the Hydreigon, and tell the other Pokémon that they're not dangerous. This is a Pokémon sanctuary, and I don't want to turn anyone away just because of what they are."

“Can't you tell them? You're the one who speaks Pokémon."

“I already did, but they also want to hear it from you. The Pokémon here trust your judgment. They won't feel safe unless we both agree."

It felt weird knowing so many Pokémon put their faith in me, or that I was even acknowledged. I was hardly here, so I assumed Cassandra made all the big decisions. “Okay, I'll do it. But what happens if I decide they're not safe?"

“You won't. If I thought they were too dangerous to have around, I would've done something already. This is just a formality to make the others feel safe. So, why don't you go ahead and get dressed and I'll meet you downstairs."

“Sure thing."

When Cassandra left, I sighed and rolled over on my back to stare at the ceiling.

So now I'm making decisions for wild Pokémon? Technically, they used to belong to trainers, but it doesn't matter now. It's still a mess Cassandra's dumped in my lap. What if the Hydreigon do something? Then again, I just found out they're here and nothing's happened yet.

Something tapped on my window. I sat up and saw Dust staring through the window. I quickly went over and opened it. “You know Cassandra's gonna be pissed when she finds out you've been digging your claws into the walls again."

Dust warbled and made a gesture that resembled a shrug, so I assumed he didn't care. Not that he would since he wasn't the one that was gonna get chewed out later. I reached out and patted his neck. “You sensed I was upset, huh?"

My holo caster started ringing. I plucked the holo caster off the nightstand and read the name of the person calling. It was a private number that I didn't recognize. I wanted to ignore the call, but I didn't often get calls from random strangers. “Hello? Who is this?"

“Good morning, Maya Martin. My name is Gwendoline Barbara." The woman spoke clearly and strongly as if she were proud of her name. There was also a strong sense of authority in her voice. “I am in charge of Public Communications for the Pokémon League."

I tightened my grip on the phone. “Wow, what's a bigshot like you doing calling a washout like me?" Why is the League contacting me period? They have a new Champion now. What could they want with me?

 “That's what I'm calling about," Gwendoline said. “There is a lot to be said, so I would rather not do this over the phone. There is a café in Santalune City, a little way from the town square and overlooks the trainer school. Do you know it?"

“Yeah, I know what you're talking about. I'm assuming you want me to meet you there?"

“Yes. I will be there three hours from now; that should be enough time for you to fly here on one of your Pokémon."

I fought the urge to hang up the phone. “It sounds like you're giving me an order, Gwendoline. I never agreed to meet you."

She was quiet for a moment before answering. “Miss Martin, do you not understand the gravity of the situation? If I am going out of my way to talk to you, then clearly it requires your utmost and immediate attention. I am not forcing you to do anything, but there is no harm in listening to what I have to say. Should you arrive before me, give tell café owner my name." I heard the distinct click on the other line indicating the call had ended.

I tossed the phone onto my bed and sighed heavily. Whatever Gwendoline wanted, she wasn't taking no for an answer. I wanted to write her off, but something told me I should at least see what she wants. If the League higher-ups were calling me, it had to be something serious.

I stood up and grabbed my Poké Ball holster on the nightstand next to my bed. I called Dorian to his Poké Ball then gave the ball holster to Dust. “Go round everyone up and then meet me out front."

Dust took the ball holster and flew away. I got dressed and packed an overnight bag. Santalune wasn't that far from the Beacon. Dust could fly me there and back in less than a day, but it wouldn't hurt to have a few supplies just in case. Once I gathered everything, I headed downstairs where Cassandra was waiting for me.

“Dust told me that someone from the Pokémon League wants to talk to you. What's up?"

“No idea," I answered, shrugging. “Just one of the higher-ups wants to talk to me. Apparently, it's too important to discuss over the phone."

“Do you think it has something to do with Sharon Harris?" Cassandra asked.

“Who?"

“The current Champion who challenged you to a battle on TV four days ago."

“Oh, right. I forgot about that," I said calmly as I headed out the front door. I really had forgotten, but Cassandra reminding me didn't make me want to battle her. Dust was waiting. I took the holster and put it on before climbing onto his back.

“Maya, if the League is paying attention to this, it's something you really should take seriously," Cassandra said.

“Uh-huh. To be honest, Cassandra, I don't care what the League wants." I patted Dust's neck and he kicked off the ground into the air.

****

Santalune was a traditional kind of place, something they took a lot of pride in. The buildings that weren't built before the dawn of time still copied the old architecture. The streets were still cobblestone which was why not many people drove here. The good news was they didn't abandon modern-day comforts like Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The city's unique style attracted a lot of tourists and having its own gym also meant trainers frequented the city. Hopefully no one would bother me.

The town square was where Dust landed. The square was famous for the massive fountain with a large stone Roselia in its center. I wasn't sure why, but he attracted a lot of attention. The moment we landed, people began whispering to themselves and stared at us. The attention made Dust nervous which made me nervous. Granted, Flygon didn't normally fly this far south, but it still felt like they knew who he was. I brushed off the suspicions and continued to the café.

The café was easy to find and, thankfully, empty except for a few people. The moment we approached, a balding man wearing a tight grey blazer came to us. “Maya Martin! I'm so glad you could make it!" He smiled and shook my hand like we were old friends. “Gwendoline told us to expect you. I cannot begin to tell you how what an honor it is to have a Pokémon League Champion at my establishment." He turned to Dust and beamed. “So, this is the famous Flygon used by Champion Maya. It is a pleasure to meet you as well."

Dust blinked at the man and trilled in greeting. I chose to follow my Flygon's example and be nice even if I did think the man was strange. I also noticed that no one seemed to care that the owner had come to greet someone in-person. Either he did that a lot, or everyone here was with the League. “Uh, you're welcome? I'm here to meet—"

“Oh! Please forgive my manners. Right this way. Gwendoline is waiting for you." The man turned to lead me to Gwendoline's table and stopped. “I'm sorry to say this but I'm afraid you'll have to put away your Flygon. He's a bit too large to have in the dining area. You can have a smaller Pokémon with you if you'd like."

I turned to Dust who looked at me sadly. “Sorry, bud, but rules are rules." I recalled Dust to his Poké Ball then released Sparks to join me.

The café owner's eyes light up, but he said nothing. He spun and led us to Gwendoline's table.

Gwendoline was easy to spot. She was wearing a green sunhat and matching top. The Pokémon sitting on the floor next to her, looking down its pointed snout at us, was a Furfrou. Like Sparks, it was a canine Pokémon, but it had white fur and a black face and paws. I remembered Ian once told me Furfrou were used as royal bodyguards, and this one proved it. Even with its white fur trimmed to look like sun hat and two long pigtails while wearing a turtle-neck sweater, it looked like something I didn't want to approach. Its red eyes held a strong “don't cross me" look like a bouncer. Judging from the way feminine look of its fur trim, I assumed it was female.  

Gwendoline looked up and smiled the moment I approached her. I felt my annoyance return. Something about the way she sat there gave me unpleasant vibes. It was the wake-up call I needed to remember this wasn't a leisure visit. Her Pokémon shot a look my way, but there was no emotion in the Furfrou's eyes. I sensed Sparks stiffening, so I patted his side to calm him down. When I calmed Sparks down, a man sitting alone at a table nearby glanced in our direction and his hand slipped under the table. There was no mistaking the Poké Ball in his hand.

Looks like someone's being cautious. But why all the secrecy? What the hell did I step in this time?

“Hello, Ms. Martin," Gwendoline said, holding out her hand. When I refused to shake her hand, she cleared her throat and continued. “I assume you're wondering why I called you out here?"

“Not really," I said as I sat down. “It has something to do with Sharon Harris, right?""

The smile on Barbara's face faltered, but it quickly came back. “Well, I guess that saves us some time. Do you want to order anything? My treat."

“What do you want, lady?" I asked curtly.

Gwendoline leaned forward and folded her hands on the table. “I get the impression you don't like me."

“I don't. The League hasn't once called me since I stepped down. So, that means you're only inviting me out and playing friendly because you want something. You're in charge of public relations and communications which is a fancy way of saying you make sure the League looks good to the rest of the world. You wouldn't be bothering me if you weren't worried about the League looking bad." I leaned forward on the table and looked Gwendoline in the eye. Her Furfrou looked at me, but it did nothing. “I don't like fake people. Don't kiss up to me because you think it'll improve your chances. It won't, so just get to the damn point."

Gwendoline's smile disappeared. At that moment, I saw it in her face: the real her. The woman who knew what to say and how to say it. The one who could play a crowd as easily as taking a breath. “Fair enough. I don't like fake smiles and false compliments either, but there is nothing wrong with being courteous. Being polite carries much more weight than you know. About a week ago, we crowned a new Kalos Champion. Three days later, we officially announced it."

“And she called me out on national television," I finished.

Gwendoline's expression turned sour, and a ripple moved through her Furfrou's fur. “Yes, I would have advised against something like that if we knew what she was up to. On behalf of the Pokémon League, I apol—"

“I thought I told you to get to the point. You caught me at a real bad time, Gwendoline."

“Please, call me Gwen."

“Fine. Speed it the fuck up, Gwen."

Gwen's lips pressed into a thin line. I was being a total bitch, but I didn't care. I already made it clear I knew why the League was reaching out, but Gwen was determined to ease into it like someone trying to slowly pull off a band-aid. Whatever she was trying to sell, I wasn't buying it.

After a few seconds, Gwen's expression softened, and she continued. “Okay. I'll get to the point. We want you to accept her challenge and lose."

I raised a brow and looked at Sparks. He was normally composed, but now he had his head tilted in confusion. I turned back to Gwendoline, hoping to see she had a smile on her face to indicate it was a joke. She remained stone-faced along with her Pokémon. Guess that explains why she rented-out the whole café and the people watching us. She can't afford to have people overhearing us. I whistled softly and leaned back in my seat. “Wow, lady, you must really have no faith in your Champion if you want me to throw a match."

“Actually, I have a lot of faith in Sharon, but I'm also not stupid," Gwen countered. “I've seen a few of your battles. You toe the line a bit, but there's no doubt that you're an excellent trainer. You can command your Pokémon with a single thought or emotion and they trust you completely. Your techniques are near impossible to predict or replicate. I've seen you take victories despite impossible odds. Sharon is also an excellent trainer, but she's not guaranteed to win against you."

She stopped to take a sip of her tea as if giving it a moment for her words to sink in then she continued. “I hate to admit it, but we need this. Thanks to Sharon's little speech, there's a lot of pressure on us. If she loses, it makes the title of Champion look weak. You know how people are; they'll start talking. By the end of a week, people will claim Sharon was nothing more than a publicity stunt to get Diantha to step down."

“So, you want me and my Pokémon to be the sacrifice, so the League doesn't lose face?" I asked.

“Yes, unfortunately. I hate to ask this of you, but if you lose, our problem goes away—so does yours. I know why you haven't made any major appearances. You avoid all League-sponsored tournaments because you're ashamed of that incident five years ago. I know that you moonlight in the underground battling circuit. If you lose to Sharon, Maya Martin will be nothing more than just another name on a gold plaque in the Hall of Fame. You won't need to hide yourself anymore."

Gwendoline took a sip of her drink and leaned on the table, lowering her voice. “The truth is, we've been getting a lot of requests for you to return to being Champion, and we've been getting ripped for ignoring them. If you lose against Sharon, then the complaints will stop—or at least reduce to a more manageable level." 

I sat there, clenching and unclenching my hands underneath the table. I could hear the dull sound of my blood pounding in my ears. On the surface I made a point of keeping my face as calm as possible although I figured Gwendoline could see the fury in my eyes.

This woman has a lot of nerve. What kind of self-respecting trainer would agree to something like this? I may have done some questionable things over the years, but I never once lost a match on purpose. Throwing a match is one of the lowest things a trainer can do. Why don't you just ask me to spit in my Pokémon's faces?

Is this really such a bad thing? I asked myself. I want to change my image as a trainer. I don't wanna to be known as “ruthless" or “unfeeling" anymore. If I lose to Sharon and become a nobody—

Another voice went off in my head, almost shouting. What about all that time spent training? What about the promise to your brother? Your Pokémon battled their hardest to make you Champion. They still stand by you and support you. You would really betray them like that?

The loud voice had a point. I turned to Sparks. He sat stiffly, staring straight ahead. He didn't like the idea of me throwing a match, and I knew the others wouldn't like it either.

This was why I left the League. Growing up, my friends and I thought it was such a glamorous life. Traveling the world, visiting exciting places, meeting new people and Pokémon, going on an adventure. Over the years, we saw it for what it was. Pokémon training was hard and complicated. Trainers didn't prowl the woods for days to find a rare Pokémon, they paid a breeder to get one for them. Going to new places was as simple as a bus ride. Traveling on foot was hard and exhausting. Back door deals and hidden politics were what really ruled the trainer world. Powerful trainers didn't get to the top by beating strong trainers, they made connections and formed alliances. The weak was weeded out before anyone even knew their name. Those without connections quickly lost their power and became nobodies.

I was determined not to be like them, but it didn't matter in the end. I was a nobody, just some little girl who dreamed of the good life as a Champion. I had no choice when I started rising through the ranks; too many people wanted to knock me down a peg and I couldn't fight them all. So, I made deals with other trainers and became the trainer equivalent of an assassin. When I, the nobody with hardly an ounce of trainer in my blood, defeated a trainer from some bigshot family who had been training Pokémon since before League challenges were a thing, it sparked a controversy. It always got people's attention. In return for upsetting the balance of power, they would tell their friends I was off-limits. I regretted what I did to get to the top but stepping down from being Champion was one of the few things I didn't regret.

“All I have to do is sell out, right?" I asked.  “And of course, if I decide to change my mind at the last second, you can just tell everyone the match was rigged and get my title pulled."

“We would never resort to something like that, Miss Martin. The Pokémon League is the very face of Pokémon trainers. If the League develops a dark reputation, things could get ugly for everyone, for Pokémon and their trainers. We need to make sure that doesn't happen. I know the whole prospect of losing on purpose sounds wrong, but this sort of thing happens all the time. If gym leaders didn't hold back, rookie trainers would never get their badges."

“That's different and you fucking know it," I growled. I sensed Sparks tensing beside me. Gwendoline's Furfrou shifted but did nothing. “Everyone knows that gym leaders have different Pokémon on specific training programs, so they aren't too strong or too weak when dealing with other trainers. And for the record, holding back is not the same as giving in."

Gwendoline's eyes hardened. “Miss Martin, you do understand what this will mean for your reputation should you win this battle? You truly have no idea how popular you are? Did you know trainers refer to you as Maya the Huntress? They say you stalk trainers like a predator stalks its prey, taking down anyone who crosses your path. Everyone fears your power but also wants to be the one to bring you down. If you defeat Sharon, your reputation will only grow."

She sighed and drained the last of her tea. “The League has been protecting you all this time, but if you beat Sharon, you will put us in a very dangerous position."

I patted Sparks to calm him down and leaned back in my seat. “Huntress, huh? I kind of like that. What do you mean the League has been protecting me? Protect me from what?"

            “That incident when you lost control of your Houndoom," Gwendoline said calmly. “You ever wonder why the Abuse Division never showed at your door, or why the incident never made the papers? A League Champion suddenly vanishes, people ask questions. We kept the rumors to a minimum and let you hide away in peace."

            That hit a mark. I tried to keep my expression neutral, but I couldn't. I hadn't forgotten that day; sometimes I had nightmares about it. It was Dorian's first battle, and I was defending my title as Champion. The battle had been going fine until that trainer called his Sylveon. I didn't why it set Dorian off, but it took Dust and Sunny to hold Dorian down long enough for the trainer to get his Pokémon out of there. That moment was a wake-up call, informing me of how extreme my tactics were that my Pokémon couldn't tell the difference between a battle between trainers and a duel.

Sparks licked my hand, sending a numbing sensation through my arm and snapping me out of my thoughts. “So, why did you protect me? Because I was the Champion, I got a pass?"

            “Of course not," Gwendoline spat. “We protected you because of your popularity and reputation. Despite the rumors of you being ruthless, there was never a single complaint filed against you, and no one denied you were close to your Pokémon. We knew the Abuse Division would ruin your career just to make a statement, so we kept it hidden. However, the more famous you become, the greater the risk of your past coming to light. When it does, we won't be able to defend you without giving the League a bad name."

            I chuckled humorlessly. Persuasion and guilt didn't work, so now she was trying to threaten me into it. “So that how it is?"

“It's not a threat; I'm only telling you what will happen if you don't accept my offer. The title of Champion will always follow you no matter how far you run from it. If you lose to Sharon, you will be the woman who held the title instead of having it. There is a difference. Tell me: If you didn't want to the wear the crown, why are you clinging to it? Don't you see I'm giving you the perfect way out?"

“I'm not clinging to anything," I said. “You say I'm an excellent trainer, but then you come to me with this bullshit proposal." I stood up and walked away. Sparks followed close behind me.

When I passed Gwendoline, she grabbed my arm, “I urge you to reconsider. This could very well be the most important decision of your career. Even should you choose to ignore Sharon's challenge, there will be repercussions. You cannot ignore what you've built, and Sharon Harris will not be the last person to challenge you. Clinging to your idea of what a Champion should be will not bring your brother back."

I snatched my arm free and left the café without responding. I kept going without stopping or looking back until I reached the town square.

I sat on the edge of the fountain and closed my eyes. The cool spray from the water felt nice, and for a moment, I forgot about Gwendoline's proposal. Dust's Poké Ball eventually popped open, and I opened my eyes. He gave me a worried look. Spark began talking to Dust in Pokémon speech, probably filling him in on what happened at the café. I knew when they got to part where I was asked to throw the match because Dust squeezed his claws together and growled.

“Dust, I'm not gonna do it," I said, reassuringly patting his side. “I would never betray you or the others like that."

Dust nodded and calmed down. I turned to Sparks to see if he needed any words of encouragement, but he was occupied by something else. He was staring at a group of people standing nearby. I assumed they were trainers based on how they were dressed. All of them seemed to be my age, although one of them looked a little older. Almost immediately, I found myself wondering about them. They're dressed for traveling in the wild which is odd for people in the city. Their clothes aren't worn, so they haven't left yet. None of them are looking at me or my Pokémon, so they either haven't developed their trainer's sense yet, or they're too confident in their own skills. Either way these guys are boring.

The trainers noticed I was staring at them and started whispering to each other.

Uh-oh. I think I watched them for too long.

I gave short whistle, signaling for my Pokémon to follow me as I turned to leave. Just as I reached the edge of the plaza, I heard a voice.

“Hey, you. Are you Maya Martin?"

I froze. There was a part of me that screamed to keep walking. That part was slowly drowned out by… something else. A strange feeling in my core that felt a lot like excitement except it wasn't. It felt more like hunger as if I hadn't eaten in days and a juicy piece of meat was being dangled in front of me. The hunger took hold of my legs and forced me to face the voice.

“Who's asking?" I said.

One of the trainers stepped forward. Just looking at him I could tell he was a legacy. He had that look about him. That undeniable air of entitlement I felt from legacies. Just looking at him pissed me off.

“I'm asking. Name's Leo." He motioned to the guy with long blond hair. “This is Shawn." He pointed at the shorter guy on the other side with the short brown hair. “That's Ed. We saw you in the Under a few days back."

“Get to the point; what do you want?" I asked irritably. I chose to ignore that he knew I was battling in the Under. My Championship battle wasn't televised, and I didn't make a big TV splash like Sharon did. I'd hoped too many people wouldn't recognize me as Champion.

I should've known better. Thanks to Sharon, a lot of people were looking up my name. Most League records, like the Hall of Fame, were available to the public. All it took was one search to find me and my team.

Leo smirked and pulled out a Poké Ball with a dark blue upper half. A Great Ball. It was used to capture tougher Pokémon. “I want to battle you. I know Sharon called dibs on you, but since you stepped down, you're fair game. I can't let a chance like this slip away. You're undefeated; whoever beats you becomes famous." He tossed the Poké Ball without waiting for an answer, releasing his Pokémon onto the field. It was a humanoid Pokémon that looked a lot like a warrior except its body was covered in blades. It was hard to tell gender differences between Bisharp, but I got a feeling this one was a male. Two crescent-shaped blades stuck out of his body and a large one shaped like a battle-ax stuck out of his head. His beady black eyes scanned me and my team as if daring one of us to move.

Something about the Bisharp struck me as odd. I sensed it was powerful, but its power didn't quite fit like seeing someone wear too small clothes.

I noticed the long-haired guy, Shawn, was pointing a video camera at us.

So that's their game. They're fame hunters tracking high-level targets to get famous. Even if I beat them, they still get free publicity. That Bisharp looks serious, but I can tell it's no match for me. Just like that, my urge to battle disappeared. I turned away. These guys wanted a show, not a battle. “Not interested. My Pokémon need sparring partners, not training dummies."

The one with the short hair, Ed, snorted and started laughing.

“What's the matter? You afraid of taking on a real trainer?" Leo cried.

I stopped again and sighed. The whole “you're scared" tactic stopped working on me years ago. People who said that were the scared ones. They were afraid of being ignored, being a nobody. This guy was determined to make someone notice him. It was pathetic. “Really? You do know that I became Champion, so the whole, 'pick on someone your own size' argument doesn't really work on me. Or are you saying the Elite Four and Diantha are all pushovers?"

Leo's mouth fell open, and he looked away. His Bisharp glared at me and stepped forward.

Dust growled and put a claw on my shoulder.

“You better get a grip on your Bisharp," I warned. “Dust doesn't respond well to threats."

“Well, my Bisharp doesn't like being called a training dummy," Leon shot back. “Now, since you are so sure of yourself, why don't we raise the stakes? You take on all three of us in a Battle Royale."

“A battle-what?"

Leon and his friends chuckled. “Battle Royale. It's pretty big over in the Alola Region. Four trainers choose a Pokémon and battle each other at once. Whoever scores a knockout first, wins." Leo's friends, Shawn and Ed, released their Pokémon. An Azumarill and a Garchomp joined Leo's Bisharp. The Azumarill didn't look like much of a threat. With its long ears and ovoid, blue body, it looked more like an inflatable toy. The Garchomp wasn't any different. It had a much rougher-looking body with is pointed fin-shaped wings, sharp claws, and dark blue scales, but I could still tell it wasn't enough of a threat. There was no notch in the dorsal fin meaning it was a female. The Garchomp sniffed the air, her long tail slapping against the ground as if in anticipation.

“So, the three of you want to use this 'Battle Royale' as an excuse to gang-up on me." I smiled. I tried to fight it, but it was like trying not laugh at something that was hilarious.  “You can't honestly think I'm that stupid."

The moment I said that, Maude's Poké Ball burst open, releasing my Mawile. Great, now it looks like I can't control my team. “Damn it, Maude. Can't sit still for one second?" I cried. “I know I promised you a battle, but I haven't found anyone good enough yet."

Maude straightened the purple scarf around her neck and pointed at the three Pokémon staring daggers at us. She made an interested cry as if declaring she wanted to battle them.

“You don't wanna battle them. They wouldn't even be a good warm up. Look, they're just trying to play tough."

“Hey! We're standing right here!" Leon shouted. “You actually think you're so good that you can treat us like a joke?" Other people were beginning to notice. Leon continued screaming at the top of his lungs. “So, the big, bad Champion is too good to waste her time on the 'common-folk?' Typical. You don't know the first thing about me, but just because I don't have some fancy title in front of my name, you think I'm beneath you."

Just leave. Just climb on Dust's back and fly away, I told myself. But I couldn't leave. The idea of a putting this smug little shit in his place made my palms itch. He had a lot of nerve trying to make me sound like an asshole. The temper-tantrum was just for an audience; I could hear in his voice he wasn't that angry.

“What's going on, here?" a new voice asked.

I cringed. It was Gwendoline. Sure enough, the crowd parted, and she appeared, her trusty Furfrou following and throwing looks at people as if watching for anyone suspicious. I assumed Leo and his friends had no idea who she was because none of them seemed worried to see her. They all wore big grins as if they just won the lottery.

You stupid bastards have no idea what you've just done. I thought.

Shawn spoke first. “Well, Miss, we were just challenging the illustrious Champion here to a battle when she starts talking down to us. Claiming we're just trash who can't hold a candle to her."

“No, I think you guys are trash, just not for the reason you're claiming," I said.

Gwendoline shot me a look as if she caught her child swearing in front of her. I didn't flinch. I wasn't her child, and there wasn't a damn thing she could do to me. “I'm sure Ms. Martin would love to battle you," she said. “I'm certain one of the Champions wouldn't be so callous."

I groaned loudly. So that's how it is. Kick these guy's asses in front of the crowd, or risk getting chewed out for ignoring it. I want to change my image. I can't afford to have people bad-mouthing me. “Okay, Maude, they're all yours, but I don't wanna hear any complaining about how weak they are."

Maude beamed with excitement and nodded. She threw a sinister back at the Bisharp who took a step back in surprise.

“Before we start," I said. “I just have one question: What makes you so certain you can beat me? Ex-Champion or not, I still beat the strongest trainers in the region. You gotta know I'm not a pushover."

Leo smiled. It was unnerving, though I didn't know why. I felt like I was at the end of a bad joke. “Don't get cocky just because you got some fancy title next to your name. Bisharp, use Iron Head!"

His Bisharp lowered its head and charged at Maude. He was fast, but Maude jumped to side, dodging it.

“Hydro Pump!" Shawn cried.

“Maude!"

A powerful stream of water shot form the Azumarill's mouth. Maude could only hold her arms over her face as the stream of water sent her rolling across the ground.

“Garchomp, use Brick Break!" Ed ordered.

The Garchomp rushed in, dragging the tips of her wings across the ground, creating sparks.

There wasn't enough time to dodge. “Maude, use Substitute."

Maude turned to the Garchomp just as she swung one her claws in a chopping motion. At the last second, a strange-looking Poké Doll appeared where Maude was. The doll took the hit and vanished.

“Sucker Punch!" I cried.

“Brick Break," Leo said.

Maude tried to rush the Garchomp from behind, but Leo's Bisharp intercepted her. She just barely managed to block it in time. I felt the force of the blow from where I stood. Maude skidded across the ground. She quickly picked herself up and smiled. Several people in the crowd cheered.

A condescending smile spread across Leo's face. “I told you not to get cocky just because you got a fancy title."

These guys are not playing around. I thought. Their Pokémon are well trained, and their teamwork is good. They purposely use one of their Pokémon to draw Maude in then attack from a blind spot. It was the same tactic used by wild Pokémon hunting in groups. I studied those tactics when I trained with Uncle Ty. The best counter was to isolate them and pick them off one-by-one. But the open-space of the plaza didn't allow for that. It was too open. The good news was their strategy relied on sneak attacks. In the wild, the Pokémon would've ended this fight early before their prey caught on. These guys were instead toying with Maude and dragging things out for maximum embarrassment.

The feeling—that excitement from before—came back again. Bad move. Even the strongest predator knew better than to play with its food. “Looks like we underestimated this one," I said. “You might need to lose the scarf."

Maude clutched protectively at the purple scarf around her neck and shook her head.

“I'd listen to my trainer if I were you," Shawn said, smirking. “I'd hate for that pretty scarf of yours to get ruined."

I laughed at him. Maude's scarf wasn't a fashion statement. I had it specially made to restrict her natural ability and dampen her power. She only took it off when she came across a powerful opponent and really wanted to enjoy the battle.

But I never told anyone about the scarf. The League knew it existed since I had to get approval to use it in official matches, but it wasn't a standard item. Since my opponents were getting the upper-hand, they had no room to complain. “We need to stop toying with them. Ditch the scarf."

Maude groaned and frowned at me, but she untied the scarf around her neck. She tossed the scarf over her shoulder and flexed her claws, letting herself get re-adjusted to the power.

“I'm sorry? Did you just say, 'Stop toying with them?' " Leo asked, his voice laced with anger. “We're kicking your ass, and you think you're toying with us?"

“She's trying to play us, dude," Ed said.

I ignored him. The battle was already over now that I had an idea what their tactics were. They were defending one another because I only needed one knockout to win. Too bad you decided to face the deceiver Pokémon. “Maude, use Sweet Scent then Sucker Punch on the Azumarill."

Maude ran toward her opponent, a clawed fist pulled back to strike. The air filled with a sweet smell that reminded me of candy. I noticed the Garchomp and Bisharp circling around for a pincer attack. The moment Maude was close enough to the Azumarill to strike, the Bisharp rushed in to counter.

They fall for it every time.  “Maude, now!"

Maude spun and grabbed the Bisharp by the face; it looked awkward since Maude was much shorter. He flailed his arms trying to break free. Maude stood there, unfazed, looking disappointed in how weak her opponent was. The three trainers stared in shock. An uneasy murmur moved through the crowd.

“Get in there and help him," Shawn ordered. “Use Hydro Pump."

“Wait! My Bisharp is too close!" Leo cried, his voice full of panic.

The Azumarill turned to his trainer, confused if he should follow the order.

Two rookie mistakes. You hesitated and stood behind a Mawile. I thought.

Maude never took her eyes off the Bisharp. The massive jaws attached to her head snapped onto the top-half of the Azumarill's body. The Azumarill's long ears stuck out the sides and his muffled screams could be heard as he tried to break free.

“Goddamn it. I have to do everything!" Ed said. “Garchomp, use Brick Break!"

The Garchomp rushed Maude from the side, his claw held over his head to strike the moment he was in range.

“Maude, shield yourself," I sighed. This battle was getting predictable. Now that they realized how strong their opponent was, their strategy was falling apart. It was worse knowing they couldn't beat me even if they were in-sync.

Maude spun and put the Azumarill right in the path of the Garchomp. She cried out apologetically when she chopped her ally in the gut. Maude took advantage of the opening and tossed the Bisharp into the stunned Garchomp. Both fell to the ground, dazed.

“Play Rough," I said.

Maude and the Azumarill disappeared under a cloud of white smoke.

Leo reacted first. “Shit! Bisharp, get in there!"

The Bisharp didn't move. He just stood there, staring straight ahead, his eyes blank. Leo's face paled.

Shawn tapped his friend on the shoulder. “Leo, do you think he's having a reaction from the—"

“Dude shut the hell up!" Leo screamed, his voice a pitch higher than normal.

My brow rose. “Did I miss something?" Maude's attack was over, and the smoke quickly cleared. The Azumarill hadn't been knocked out, but he wasn't trying to get up. Maude noticed the Bisharp staring and tilted her head. Dust and Sparks stirred, and the hackles on Gwendoline's Furfrou rose. Something was making them nervous.

“It's nothing don't worry about it," Leo said quickly. “Bisharp, use Brick Break."

Leo's Bisharp continued to stand there in a daze. His eyes had drifted, and he was rocking back and forth. Maude pointed at him gave me a look saying, “What's up with him?"

I shrugged in response. “Let's not play around anymore, Maude. Use Play Rough."

“Bisharp! Snap out it!"

The Bisharp flinched and looked around as if he had no idea where he was. Maude rushed in low. Before the Bisharp could react, she jumped on him, the two of them blocked by a thick cloud of smoke. I heard a few punches land and the Bisharp cry out in pain. Maude leapt out of the smoke cloud with a big smirk on her face. The cloud quickly vanished, revealing the Bisharp laying on the ground, unconscious.

Not the direction I was looking for this battle to go in, but it worked.

“Hey, that was fucking dirty!" Leo cried.

“Your Bisharp was wide open," I said calmly. “It's not my fault he stopped paying attention. If you were really worried about him, you'd call off the match."

Leo glared at me. Even from a distance I could see him grinding his teeth together. None of his friends offered any advice. They all knew I had a point. The battle had already started, and there was no rule saying I had to wait. A murmur moved the crowd, no doubt people arguing over whether that was legit or not. I didn't care. I was only there for one thing.

And it wasn't to entertain them.

“Since your Bisharp is knocked-out, I guess I win."

Leo ground his teeth together and recalled his Bisharp. His friends recalled their Pokémon and stared at each other nervously. The crowd was already thinning out. I caught a few people dissatisfied with the battle's outcome saying things like, “She's the Champ, what did they was gonna happen?" and “I bet those guys'll think twice before challenging someone of her level." It was weird to hear. They seemed to be blaming those guys for challenging me.

Maude grumbled under her breath as she retrieved her scarf and came to me. Sparks barked happily, probably trying to raise Maude's spirits. She waved away his encouragement and continued to look sour.

“I told you they were weak," I said.

Maude shot me a dirty look then went back into her Poké Ball. I put the ball back in its holster and turned to leave when I noticed Gwendoline was still standing there.

“What?" I asked, making no attempt to hide my annoyance.

“Still as ruthless as ever, I see."

“Fuck you," I growled.

“That was just a taste of what will happen should you win against the Champion. There will be others, ones far more powerful than those fools."

The thought of that made me smile. “Good. I'm tired of dealing with rookies anyway."

“And so, the Huntress is back on the prowl." There was something in her voice, almost like amusement. It was weird. A few minutes ago, she was practically begging me to lose the match against Sharon. Now she's happy?

Sparks nudged me. I recalled him to his Poké Ball and hopped on Dust's back.

****

“Welcome back, Maya," Ian said cheerfully when I walked into the living room Aqua and Sparks right behind me. Ian and Lulu had moved into the living room along with Cassandra, Lucien, Fury, and Cassandra's Delphox, Delphine. The large fox Pokémon was the only one who hurried over to me. I always liked how Delphine's brown and yellow fur reminded me of a mage's robe.   She whined as she ran her paws through our clothes and our hair. She even lifted and bent my arms as if checking to see if anything was broken.

“What the hell is with the inspection?" I asked.

“Delphine said she had a vision last night where we were seriously hurt. She's been nervous ever since," Cassandra said. “But we can worry about that later. What happened to your visit with the bigshot from the League?"

I gently pushed Delphine away. “Your Delphox tells you she saw a future where something happens to me, and you don't care?"

“Her visions aren't very accurate."

Delphine folded her arms across her chest and grumbled.

“Yes, I'm still holding a grudge because of that," Cassandra said through clenched teeth. “You told me I was gonna die before I turned eighteen. I had a whole will written and everything. Do you have any idea how tense I was?" Delphine rolled her eyes. Lucien sighed and shook his head. Cassandra glared at her Delphox then turned back with a smile. “What were you saying Maya?"

I dropped onto the sofa with a heavy sigh. Aqua yipped happily jumped into my lap. She was heavier that she looked, but I chose not to say anything. I appreciated she was trying to cheer me up. As I stroked Aqua's back, I told everyone about my talk with Gwendoline and what she wanted me to do. I also told them about the Battle Royale ambush and how Gwendoline reacted. When I mentioned that she wanted me to throw the match on purpose, the Pokémon reacted exactly as I thought they would. The room filled with a series of barks and growls. Ian asked for a translation, but Cassandra said it was better if she didn't. Short version: they were pissed.

When I finished my story, Cassandra still sat there with the most serious expression I'd ever seen. Lucien looked nervous sitting next to her.

“The League must be really desperate to ask you—a former Champion—to throw a match," Ian said.

“You think it'll really cause problems for the League if she loses?" I asked.

            “Fuck the League," Cassandra said. I was shocked by her reaction. “The real problem is what it'll mean for you if you win. You stepped down from being Champion without telling anyone why."

“And I will never will," I mumbled under my breath.

“Either way, if you beat the current Champion, people will think you stepped down because you were bored. Your popularity will go up and anyone who wants to prove themselves will want a shot at you."

“Look, I'm not accepting her challenge anyway, so I don't really care."

“A trainer turning a challenge from a Champion?!" Cassandra asked in mock surprise. “Yeah, that'll end well."

“I don't care. She doesn't really want to battle me. She wants to make a name for herself."

“Isn't that what every trainer does?" Ian asked.

I stared at him like he just said something incredibly stupid because he did. “Dude, you don't go around battling other trainers just to make a name for yourself. It makes it sound like battles aren't fun. The point is to test your bond with your Pokémon, not to make other people feel bad."

“Right. Sorry, sensei."

“Don't call me that."

“But you are my sensei."

“Yeah, sensei," Cassandra said teasingly. “It's your job to pass on your infinite wisdom."

“Both of you can go to hell."

            Before Cassandra could tease me some more, there was a knock at the door. We all turned to Lulu and Lucien. After sitting still with their eyes closed for a few seconds, they opened their eyes and nodded, meaning there wasn't any crazies at the door.

            I got up and answered it. Anything to get away from Cassandra's teasing. A tall blond woman was standing in the doorway wearing all black and sporting a long red jacket. My jaw dropped at the sight of her. “Taylor?!" How the hell did she find me?

            Taylor smiled nervously. “Hi. I'm glad you remember me although you don't sound very happy to see me."

            I shook off my shock and took a step back, my guard up. Is she mad about losing the battle? Did I hurt her Talonflame worse than I thought? “I'm not. What are you doing here, and how did you find out where I live?"

            “I'll tell you, but first could you call off your Pokémon? I don't really like the way they're looking at me."

            I didn't need to look back to know Aqua and Sparks were waiting for me to give an order. Taylor should be lucky Dorian was upstairs.

            Cassandra walked up. “First, show us your true face." She turned to me and added, “She has a Zoroark and she's using it to mask her appearance."

            Taylor's eyes widened. “Damn. You gotta have be, like, crazy perceptive to be able to see through Cypher's illusion."

            “My Lucario figured it out."

            Her eyes somehow got wider. “You have a Lucario? That is sooo cool. Can I see it?"

            I turned to Cassandra. She looked as confused as I felt. Taylor looked to be Cassandra's age but was somehow even more immature. It was more than a little weird.

            Taylor's sudden voice reminded us that she was there. “Oh, right. I totally forgot. Cypher, can stop the illusion, please?"

The air around Taylor shimmered as if she stepped behind a veil of water. The air cleared revealing a Zoroark standing next her. The black-furred Pokémon stood taller than Taylor. Its large red mane looked like it could over Taylor's entire body. Taylor was no longer as tall as she was although her hair and outfit were still the same which I realized was mimicking her Zoroark. Her face was rounder and much younger looking. If I had to guess, I'd say early teens.

            “Sorry about the whole 'cloak-and-dagger'. It's just easier sooo much easier to travel looking like a battle-hardened older woman instead of a 13-year-old girl."

            I found my voice again. “You still haven't explained why you're here."

            Taylor pointed at me and turned to Cassandra. “Is she always like that?"

            “Yeah, she is. Now answer the damn question."

            “Are you gonna at least invite me in? Do people in Kalos, like, not have manners?"

            “People in Kalos don't like when random strangers show up outside their doors," I countered.

            Taylor looked as if she wanted to counter that, but she nodded in agreement. “Okay, okay. I get it. Look, it's a long story. Do I really have to stand out here and tell it?"

            I turned to Cassandra again. Neither Lucien nor Lulu had appeared with a warning about Taylor trying to set us up, so I figured we could at least trust her on that front. But I was a little skeptical that Taylor tracked me down after I battled her at the Under. She never once let on that she was looking for me then. But after what I did to her Talonflame, she was probably occupied.

            Cassandra thought it over for a moment before saying, “Fine. Come on in. But I'll warn you now, if you try anything, Maya will kick your ass."

            Taylor smiled. “Are you really threatening me? I might be thirteen, but I'm no weakling."

            “I already kicked your ass once kid, I'm not in the mood to do it again," I said. “But I will."

            Taylor was quiet until we reached the living room where Ian and the others were.

She took one look at the Pokémon in the room and started squealing. “OMG! Is that a Delphox? That's a Delphox isn't it? The fur is pretty and soft looking. I would just love to brush it all day long!" she rushed over and tried to pet to Delphine.

Delphine grabbed Taylor's wrist, slammed her to the floor and pinned her arm behind her back. Taylor's Zoroark, Cypher, snarled and rushed to help his trainer. Without looking up from Taylor, Delphine snatched a stick out of her fur, its tip catching fire. She flicked her wrist and a small flame shot from the stick, hit Cypher in the chest, and sent him rolling across the floor.

Lulu jumped in front of Ian, ready to protect her trainer from any collateral damage. Aqua and Sparks quickly got out of the way, regrouping near me.

Lucien looked ready to jump in when Cassandra put her arm in his path. “Taylor, call him off before he gets hurt. Delphine, get off her. She's not gonna hurt you."

Delphine let go of Taylor and went to Cassandra, shooting dirty looks at the teenager.

Taylor and Cypher slowly got up off the floor. “Cypher's a girl," she mumbled.

“Oh, my bad," Cassandra said to the Zoroark. “It's hard to tell sometimes, y'know?"

“Wow, you weren't kidding when you said you'd kick my ass," Taylor said. “I've never seen any Pokémon take someone down like that. Where'd she learn it?"

“I taught all of my Pokémon close-quarters combat. It comes in handy when some weirdo scares them."

Taylor blushed and stared at her feet. “Look, I'm sorry I scared your Delphox. It's just Delphox is my favorite Pokémon, but they are impossible to find."

“After the way you reacted to Delphine, I wouldn't be surprised if they were running from you," I whispered.

Delphine ducked behind Cassandra and growled at Taylor. Cassandra patted Delphine's snout. “That's not nice to say. I'm pretty sure she's not gonna do anything strange to you when nobody's looking."

I leaned closer to Cassandra and whispered. “We didn't act like that at thirteen, did we?"

“No, I was too busy trying to convince my folks I wasn't crazy, and you were making the neighborhood boys cry."

“Can someone tell me what's going on?" Ian asked. He was looking at all of us like he was ready to run.

I rolled my eyes. “Oh, right. Taylor, that's Ian and his Lucario, Lulu. Lulu and Ian, this is Taylor the chick whose ass I kicked back at the Under."

“Um, this is getting, like, super weird, so I'm just gonna get to the reason why I'm here," Taylor said. She sat down on the sofa. She turned to us as if waiting for us to join her. We didn't move, so she cleared her throat and continued. “Okay, what do want to know first?"

“How'd you find me?"

“Tracking you down was pretty hard. I've been looking for you for months. First, I tried the official League records, then I asked some of the gym leaders, then I started going to tournaments hoping you'd show up. I always came up blank. People have, like, literally, no idea where you live."

“That's because I never told anyone," I said. “And I didn't want random people showing up at my door.

“I was gonna tell you after the tournament, but after I took Scorch to the Pokémon Center, I lost you again. He's fine by the way. That firestorm thing you did was, like, sooo cool. You have to show me how you did that."

“Yeah, that's not happening. So, how'd you track me down after the tournament?"

“Some guy told me. I didn't catch his name, but he gave some serious creep vibes."

I turned to Cassandra. “We should throw her out."

“That's not very nice. After all the trouble she went through to track you down?" Cassandra said, smiling.

“That's the problem. How do we know she's not some crazy?"

“Lucien or Lulu would've said something if they sensed something off about her aura. Besides, if she did try anything, your Pokémon would tear her apart."

“Umm, hello? I'm, like, sitting right here," Taylor said, emphasizing her annoyance.

“So?" Cassandra and I said.

Taylor pouted and folded her arms across her chest. “Sheesh, no one told me my aunt was this damn mean," she mumbled.

I felt like I swallowed a Poké Ball. I turned to Cassandra as if she knew what was going on. She looked just as clueless as I felt. I turned to Ian who had sat quietly in the corner this whole time. He shrugged while giving me a questioning look. I turned back to Taylor. “What…did you just say? Aunt? Who are you talking about?"

Taylor stiffened, and her Zoroark suddenly looked nervous. She slowly turned to face me with a nervous smile. “Um…you?"

I couldn't breathe. Something was wrapped around my throat and squeezing. That can't be right. The only way I'm an aunt is if—if Bryce had… There's no way. “I don't have a niece. There's no way I have a niece that I didn't know about."

“Well, I didn't know you existed until, like, a few months ago. I just assumed my deadbeat dad didn't have siblings."

Something in me just… popped. I saw myself walking toward Taylor, fists clenched at my sides. I didn't try to stop. Taylor just stared, unsure what to make of me. I grabbed her by the shirt collar. “You watch your damn mouth when you talk about my brother," I growled.

Taylor tried to stare me down. I wasn't budging. The room began to fill with low growls.

Someone grabbed my shoulder and snatched me backwards. I stumbled into Delphine who pinned me against the wall. Cassandra stood where I used to be, Lucien standing between her and Taylor's Zoroark. “Okay, everyone calm down!" Cassandra said “Maya, chill. We don't know everything just yet. Taylor, you got one minute to tell us a story we'll believe because Bryce has been missing for years. Are you saying you saw him?"

Taylor shrugged, still glaring at me. “Hell, if I know. I never met him. I just know he knocked up my mom and left her to raise the baby, alone. If he's been missing for years, I guess he ran off on you, too."

“I told you to watch—" I yelled. Delphine pressed on my chest, forcing back against the wall. She gave me a stern look saying, “That's not helping." Now Sparks had joined in in holding me back, planting himself right on my feet.

Cassandra turned back to Taylor. “Start from the beginning."

“My mom came to Kalos from Johto for the Pokéathlon. That's how she and Dad met. After the Pokéathlon, they—well, you know where babies come from. When my mom found out she was pregnant with me, she moved back to Johto to live with her parents."

“Little bitch is lying," I mumbled.

“Not. Helping," Cassandra said forcefully. She turned back to Taylor and said in a softer voice. “So how did you find out who your father was?"

Taylor sat down on the sofa. Her face looked like all the fight had been drained out of her. Cypher patted her trainer on the shoulder. “My mom talked about him all the time and what a great guy he was. But when she called to tell him about the baby, he never returned her calls."

She chuckled humorlessly. “But she never gave up the idea that he cared about her. She always sent him texts and e-mails that he never answered, but Mom would not give up on him."

That drained some my anger. She held on to hope for all this time, never knowing the truth. She's loyal, I'll give her that. “If your mom was so stuck on my brother, why didn't she contact his family?" I asked.

“She did."

The whole room became silent.

“W-What did you say?" I asked breathlessly.

“My mom did contact the family. She spoke to my grandfather."

“What? You mean—you—what?" I shoved Delphine and stormed out of the room. I didn't know what to do with myself. The shock of learning Bryce had a kid and finding out my dad—and probably my mom—knew about her left me feeling restless. What am I supposed to feel? Happy? Angry? Sad? It was all the above. I slammed my fist against the wall and went upstairs to my room.

Dorian was laying in my bed. He lifted his head when I came in, but he didn't look concerned although he had to hear everything going on downstairs.

I sat on the edge of my bed, and Dorian jumped to the floor. My mind felt like it had been broken into pieces. Things with my dad had become pretty tense after the divorce was final and we found out about his new girlfriend. Mom was convinced he had met her before the divorce, and she wasn't shy about voicing her opinion. I hated him for moving on and forgetting about his missing son. To avoid a custody battle, dad agreed to let me visit on weekends. I made up every excuse possible to get out of visiting him and his new kids. Our conversations were done through phone and e-mail. Partly because I hated him, and partly because I wanted to focus on my training. After I left to become a Pokémon trainer, he stopped calling, not that I lost any sleep over it. It was possible my dad assumed Taylor's mom was lying and didn't say anything to anyone else. He wasn't talking to me, so I shouldn't be surprised to have been left in the dark.

The more I thought about it, the more it pissed me off. He knew why I became a trainer, he knew what I spent four years of my life doing. He knew, but he still chose to hide that crucial bit of information. He chose to keep closure away from my mother and me. I took my anger out on my pillow, punching it until my arms were tired. It didn't help.

Sparks, Aqua, Arbor, and Maude came into the room. I was shocked to see Maude. She was more of the awkward-pat-on-the-shoulder type. She sat down on the floor and leaned against the bed. Sparks joined her on the floor. Aqua jumped onto the bed and nuzzled my face. Arbor jumped on the bed as well, but he only laid down close to me. Dorian sat down near the door, facing it as if expecting Taylor to try to sneak in.

“Do all of you think I'm a basket case?" I asked.

Aqua lay her head in my lap and sighed. It was supposed to be a distraction from my feelings, but it only reminded me how alone I was. These Pokémon were the only ones I could rely on. I didn't fear my secrets pushing them away. They knew about all everything anyway.

There was knock on the door. “Hey, you okay?" Ian asked.

I looked up and saw Ian and Lulu standing in the doorway.

“I just found out my brother has a secret love child, and my asshole of a father knew about it. Do the math," I said. “But thanks for asking."

“I know it's a stupid question, but I really have no idea what to say in this situation." Ian approached the bed. Dorian turned to him, and he cautiously stepped around the Houndoom and stood at the far wall instead. Lulu stood casually near me, but she kept her eyes on Dorian.

I suddenly felt guilty for my sarcastic comment before. “I really do appreciate you checking on me, but I think the main thing I need is time. A lot has happened today."

Ian nodded, his face serious. “Well if you need anything, you know Cassandra and I are here for you."

“You sound like Cassandra. Ian, I'm a mess. I've always been a mess. You don't wanna hear me whine about my problems."

“Maya, you're my friend. I don't care if you want to complain about stubbing your toe, I'll listen, and I won't judge." He walked toward the door.

I sighed stared at the ceiling. Aqua shifted in my lap. “I ever tell you about my journey?"

“Yeah, you mentioned it…once, and you skipped the details."

“Well, I wasn't the nicest person back then. I spent every waking moment tracing down leads. My friends spent four years running all over the region with me. They never complained that I was making our League challenge take longer than it should. They never complained I was a complete bitch the entire time." I was surprised I spilled my guts like that. I wanted to stop, but the words just poured out of me. Tears rolled down the side of my head and pooled in my ears. It felt good like when I was hugged in the yard earlier.

“Four years, Ian. Four. Years. That's not including before I ran away. I spent so much time running around in the woods, and mountains, and caves. Late nights questioning people and pouring over old maps. I've been to places that aren't even on the map anymore. I know half of the forests of this region better than the Pokémon Rangers. I could tell you about so many rare Pokémon nests and hunting patterns. I know the best areas in Kalos to see a sunrise, a sunset, a rainbow after a storm. I know all these things, but I hadn't a clue my brother had a kid. All that time, and then Taylor comes along and just makes me feel like I just played around this whole time." I sat up and stared at Ian. “How could I have missed it? What the hell was I doing, Ian?"

Ian didn't answer. He stared with pity in his eyes. Seeing that look made me stare at the floor. Someone licked my face. I thought it was Aqua, but it turned out to be Arbor. He whined and licked my face again when I looked at him. I sighed and scratched him behind the ears.

Finally, Ian said, “Maya, I get it. You spend all that practicing something only to learn how just how little you know."

I chose to ignore Lulu's paw going to the badge of shame on her chest. It was a constant reminder of what happened when Ian let his family name go to his head. He played things safer now, but after seeing the way he ignored Lulu's injury today, I wondered if he was just running from his problems. Admitting weakness was hard.

“You know what happened wasn't your fault," I said.

Ian made a sound that I assumed was supposed to be a chuckle, but it sounded like a sarcastic snort. “Yes, it was. I should've listened to you when tried to warn me. But what happened to Bryce isn't on you. It's not your job to put your family back together."

I frowned. “That's easy to say when your family isn't broken. At least your dad wants what's best for you. Mine won't even talk to me."

“Technically, my dad and I aren't speaking to each other. Maybe we should start a club. We all seem to have problems with our dads," he added with a weak smile.

“Unfortunately, I think we would be the only two in the club. Taylor's dad is dead, so I don't think that counts. And Cassandra says she gets along pretty well with her dad."

“Maya—"

“No, seriously. Take it from someone with more than enough family drama. Don't burn your bridges if you don't have to."

Ian nodded and walked out the room, and Lulu gave me one last apologetic look before following him.

I closed the door behind them. I flicked the light switch and made my way back to the bed in the dark. It took some maneuvering to lay down comfortably with Aqua and Arbor laying in the bed, but once I found a position, I fell asleep.

****

The sun shining through my window woke me up. I felt like battered shit, all the consequences of a fun night of partying without any of the benefits. Mostly I felt guilty. Taylor hadn't done anything to me, but I called her a liar and threatened her. She was just a lost kid looking for answers, something I knew too well.  It's probably too late to be a family, but I could least apologize. I slowly opened my eyes to Maude sitting at the foot of the bed staring out of the window. Her legs were folded and was leaning backward, using the massive jaws attached to her head for support. I looked around and didn't see any of the others except for Dorian who was sleeping in front of the door.

            I slowly sat up and wiped my eyes. “That's new. I never wake-up to your shining face."

            Maude glanced at me and turned back to the window. My stomach tightened. The only time Maude was that focused was when she saw a strong opponent.

            “What are you looking at?"

            Maude pointed. I followed her claw out of the window. Taylor was out in the yard with her Zoroark, Cypher, her Talonflame, Scorch, and an Absol. From what I could tell she had them running drills. The Talonflame was zooming around in the air, firing streams of fire at Cypher. The Absol stood by Taylor's side, observing. Cypher dodged and ducked under the attacks but didn't fire anything back. I turned my attention to the Absol. It looked like any other Absol except its face, horn, and tail were red instead of the usual blue. It was hard to tell from a distance, but it looked like it had a mark on its left foreleg. I raised a brow and turned to the stuffed Absol laying on my bed. Is that why you gave me that toy, Bryce? So I could recognize Taylor if I saw her? Did you know about her? I turned to Maude. She was watching them practice intensely, clenching her claws in her lap.

            Those guys she battled yesterday weren't enough for her. Not that I blame her—that fight was barely good enough for a warm-up. I need to get her in a real battle, soon.

            I got out of bed and changed my clothes. When I left the room, Dorian and Maude followed. I went straight down the stairs, figuring Ian and Cassandra were up already. The living room was empty, so I went outside where Taylor was.

            Ian and Cassandra were outside along with their Pokémon and mine. Everyone sat in small groups talking to each other or just lazing about on the ground. Sunny noticed me first, hurrying over and buzzing worriedly around me. I sighed and let her bombard me with questions I couldn't understand. Trying to push her away would only make her worry more.

            Eventually, Maude said something, convincing Sunny to leave me alone. She seemed reluctant, but she backed off. I headed for Taylor.

            Cassandra cut me off. “Hey, are you good?"

            “I'm fine, Cassandra. I'm just going to talk to her."

            Cassandra studied me for a minute as if making sure I wasn't lying. I wasn't. Even if I was still pissed, I wasn't gonna beat-up a kid. Eventually, she nodded and let me pass.

            Cypher noticed me first. She stopped and growled at me just before taking a Flamethrower to the chest, sending her skidding across the grass. Maude snickered into her claw. Cypher quickly jumped to her feet and rushed to her trainer's side. Scorch and the Absol stared at me, confused. There was no mistaking the Absol. It had the same mark on the left foreleg as the stuffed toy in my room. This was the same Absol.

            “What's going on with you?" Taylor asked. She saw me standing there and her puffy eyes went wide. Her cheeks were also wet. “Oh. It's you. Come to throw me out?"

            Scorch landed on the ground next to Taylor. He turned to his trainer and tilted his head in confusion. Cypher muttered something, and Scorch's confusion turned into an accusatory stare directed at me. The Absol stared without judgement.

            I ignored the Pokémon. “I'm not here to throw you out," I said. Looking at her face pissed me off, so I stared up the sky. “I just wanted to say sorry for how I reacted last night."

            “Well, I did just show up out of the blue and started claiming we were family. I guess I thought it would like it was on TV." I looked at her. She was playing with her hands and staring at her toes. “Cassandra kinda filled me in on what's happened. Is…Is it true that Bryce is dead?"

            Seeing her like that killed my anger. It was easy to forget she was a kid. “Yeah."

            Taylor kicked at the grass. “Figures. I finally get up the courage to track down my old man and find out I hated him for nothing." She lifted her head. Fresh tears rolled down her face. “It's just me and my mom back in Johto. We only have one picture of him and it's from before I was born. She stares at it, like, every night. I hated that she wouldn't give up on him. I was so ready to find him and give him a piece of my mind. Had a speech prepared and everything. Only now…" Her voice started breaking making it impossible to finish her sentence. Cypher put a claw on Taylor's shoulder, and she buried her face in the Zoroark's chest. I could hear her muffled sobs. Scorch lowered his head and chirped sadly. The Absol continued to look at me. It was making me uncomfortable.

            I sighed and stuffed my hands in my pockets. Taylor was only two steps away from being me. At least she had someone who could provide her the closure she needed. When I started my search for Bryce, I had friends, but I was still alone. I wasn't gonna let Taylor go down that road. “Does your mom know you're here?"

            Taylor wiped her eyes on her arm and faced me. “What?"

            “I'll take that as a 'no.' So what's your plan now?"

“I…I don't know. I was just gonna go home after I cussed my dad out, but since he's gone, I guess I'll just head home."

“Just like that? You'll leave?"

Taylor shrugged, looking confused. “What am I supposed to do?"

            “I figured you'd want to know a little bit about your old man now that you know he didn't ditch you."

            Taylor tried to hide her excitement. It didn't work. Cypher and Scorch gave me skeptical looks. The Absol remained neutral.

            “Listen, I gotta ask: Where'd you get that Absol?"

            “You mean Abby? She was my mother's Pokémon. My mom gave her to me when I got my trainer's license. I don't know where she got her, though. Why?"

            “No reason. I just know now that your mom really did know Bryce. Go ahead and finish your training. We can talk more about Bryce later. I need to get my head together." I went back to Cassandra and Ian.

            “Looks like that went well," Cassandra said. “So, what are you doing with her?"

            “I figure it couldn't hurt to talk to her. Hey, I need a favor. You mind talking to her Absol when you get a chance? She keeps looking at me, and I get the feeling she knows me somehow."

            “Sure thing. If it helps you move on, I'm at your disposal."

            I nodded and turned to Ian. He had been very quiet ever since he found out who Taylor was last night. He watched Taylor and her Pokémon, his face was blank making it impossible to read. “Hey, you okay?" I asked.

            “I don't like her. First that guy at the Under, then Sharon, then the Battle Chateau, now this. You became real popular real fast. I'm getting worried. Are you okay? There's a lot coming at you."

            “I'm fine. Thanks for asking," I said.

            “You're not thinking of accepting Gwendoline's offer, are you?" Cassandra asked. “I mean, it has appeal; if you lose to Sharon, you're life'll quiet down a little. And what guy at the Under are you talking about?"

            I sighed and leaned on the railing. Cassandra struck me as a lot of things, but never someone who would take the easy way out. “If it were you, what would you do?"

            Cassandra was quiet for a moment. “I would tell Gwendoline to stuff it then go kick Sharon's ass just to be a dick."

            “Damn straight." Maude turned to me hopeful that it meant what is sounded like. I smiled at her. “It's been a while since we took someone good enough to be a Champion. Think you can handle it?"

            Maude gave me a look saying, “You know I can." She then ran off, probably to tell the others the good news.

            “You know you'll only become more popular if you do this," Cassandra warned.

            “Then I'll just have to become so strong trainers will be too scared to challenge me," I said. That thought excited me. Ever since I stepped down from Champion and decided I needed to change, I've only battled low-level trainers. Any trainer with half and ounce of skill didn't enjoy easy wins. Worse, it was affecting my Pokémon. Maude was getting restless, and everyone would start getting weak if they didn't have any competition soon.

            That was it. What I needed. Before, finding Bryce and becoming Champion were my goals. I already became Champion, and I put Bryce to rest. I was bored; there was nothing else to do. I still wasn't sure if I wanted to go to the Battle Chateau, but the idea of finding a level beyond Champion felt right.

            “How do you go beyond Champion?" Ian asked, giving me a worried look. “The only trainers I know above Champion are The Nine. Maya, you can't seriously want to mess with them."

            The Nine was a group of trainers feared and respected around the world for their skills. It was mostly made up of Ex-Champions and trainers who pulled off amazing feats. People said not even a Champion stood a chance against them. It wasn't even an official group, but everyone trainer recognized it.  Defeating a member of The Nine was the only way to join, but not many trainers wanted to challenge someone who was legendary. Ian had found out the hard way how strong they were. It was the reason why he hadn't had another battle sense.

            I turned to Cassandra. She was one of The Nine although I never saw her contact any of the other members. She didn't like talking about it because she said she only did it to spite her parents.

            Cassandra eventually noticed I was staring at her. “What? Are you sure you want to become a part of that group? Trust me: it's overrated."

            “Maybe, but there's no denying their skilled, right? I need a new goal to focus on."

            “Focus on something else. Those people don't play around. They're not typical trainers."

            “Um, Maya?" Taylor asked.

            I forgot she was there. I faced her. She stood near the back porch, looking like a child afraid their parent for something. Her Pokémon stood behind her. For a moment none of us said anything. Finally, Abby nudged Taylor. “If it's okay, could you take me to see my grandparents?"

            I hesitated before answering. I hadn't seen my parents in years. I only spoke to my mom over the holo caster, and I hadn't seen my dad since the divorce was final. Still, I wanted to believe that Taylor was Bryce's daughter, and I wouldn't deny my parents the opportunity to see their only grandchild.

            “Sure thing."