For the longest of times, Mami has looked at other humans with caution. She knows of the ways that they can hide their emotions, letting them fester inside while hiding behind a deceitful smile. It's why she keeps her distance from most adults. With children, she chooses carefully with whom she wishes to interact with—after all, not many children are like Brie.

But Raihan?

Raihan is different…but he's a good different. He gets along quite well with Brie, in ways that Mami feels is most beneficial to her. Brie likes to hide behind a smile sometimes. It's so empty and hollow, but unlike the people that Mami prefers to forget, these smiles don't make her feel so terrible. Instead, they make her feel…sad.

So very, very sad.

It's why Mami likes Raihan so much, because he keeps Brie from making that face of hers.

"Deedee!" Mami nods her head as she continues observing their interactions.

It's been more than a week since Raihan came into Brie's life, and while Mami would prefer it if Brie would interact with the other children at the orphanage, she's at least glad that Brie isn't completely alone. He keeps her talking whenever she starts to get too quiet.

Sometimes, it's Raihan who talks to Mami. It leads to these one-sided conversations, but Mami doesn't mind. It's nice to see him trying, since he sees Brie doing it so effortlessly.

It's still strange why Brie hasn't lost her connection yet, as most children her age would have. It's strange…but definitely not unwanted. Because Mami likes talking to Brie.

And Brie likes talking to her, and every other Pokémon she comes across. Just like most of the younger children at the orphanage do, wanting to know as much as they can from her because she's so new to them. She's seen more things than any of the other Pokémon at the orphanage have seen. The only one who comes as close to it is Delilah, but she keeps her distance, still wary of the toddlers that tried to grab her tail.

"Why did you even choose to work here if you don't like dealing with children?" At the moment, Mami has her eye on two of the volunteers who were assigned to watch the children. One of the volunteers was a blue-haired girl by the name of Carol, who was currently confronting another volunteer.

"I did not spend money on these nails just to have them ruined by working in the mines." And that volunteer just so happened to be Amanda. "And if you think I'm going to go work with poison Pokémon in sanitation, then you're absolutely nutters."

"If that's the case, then you really need to watch what you say, if you want to keep working here," Carol scolds her. "I caught some of the kids repeating what you've said around them."

"It's not like it matters—they're just kids." Amanda twirls a lock of her hair around her finger. "Speaking of kids, there's that weird one's Indeedee."

"Dee." Mami doesn't even try to hide her distaste for Amanda.

"Oh, hello Mami!" Carol, as usual, is quite the sweet girl…unlike Amanda, who is full of such negative emotions. "Did you lose track of Brie?"

Mami shakes her head. "Deedee."

"Strange—she's usually with you, though." Carol places her hands on her hips.

"She's probably playing pretend again with a Pokémon," Amanda remarks.

"Just what do you even have against her for that?" Carol scowls at Amanda. "So what if she is pretending? The least you can do is play along."

"Why should I? She's old enough, Carol—she just needs to grow up." It takes every fiber of Mami's being to keep herself from using her psychic energy on Amanda.

"Dee." Mami takes her leave with a bow, deciding that she can no longer tolerate Amanda's negative emotions. At the very least, Brie wasn't around…but that still does so little to soothe her headache. "Iinnndeee."

Mami should probably look for Brie, if only to ensure that she doesn't come in contact with Amanda in any way, shape, or form. Wherever she is, Brie seems to have gone farther than she should from the others…

"Dee." Mami isn't so sure if she should be worried or relieved. On one hand, this minimizes any possible interactions Brie could have with Amanda. On the other hand, Brie wasn't supposed to stray too far, so…

…

"Dee." Mami sighs and shakes her head. Brie is only lucky that Raihan is with her, otherwise, Mami would've defaulted to her usual behavior. It's why she remains calm when she finds Brie and Raihan by a crepe stand that's located at the outskirts of the park.

Raihan greets her with a warm smile on his face, offering her a crepe that he quickly gives to his Trapinch when she politely turns him down. Storm snaps up the entirety of the crepe in one bite, catching Brie completely by surprised.

"Holy crap!" Brie almost drops her crepe out of shock.

"Oh yeah—he does that." Raihan only laughs. "You get used to it."

"Trap trap!" It honestly wouldn't be the same if Storm doesn't ask her for the same favor he usually does when he sees her.

"In." Seeing no harm in indulging Storm, Mami uses her psychic energy to levitate Storm. It earns her a wave of positive emotions that make her feel absolutely warm and fuzzy inside. "Dee dee!"

"Storm really likes being in the air…" Brie looks curiously at Storm as he wriggles around in such a happy manner.

"Baba says it's because of what he'll eventually evolve into," Raihan tells her before holding up his camera to snap a picture.

Flash!

"Ahh!" Brie shields her eyes from the harsh light that comes from Raihan's camera.

"Oh, sorry—forgot to disable the flash." Raihan frowns as he reaches out to pat Brie on the head. "Maybe we should get you some glasses?"

"It's fine!" It's not fine, but Mami doesn't say anything. She just watches as Brie rubs her eyes before taking a huge bite out of her crepe. "I'll get used to it."

"Hmmm…" Raihan tilts his head to the side. "Well, if you say so…"

"Indeedee." Mami narrows her eyes as she uses her psychic energy to pull out the pair of disposable sunglasses that she KNOWS she's slipped into Brie's pocket this morning. "Dee dee!"

"I'm not wearing them!" Brie snatches the sunglasses out of the air. "They're ugly! YEET!"

She proceeds to throw them across the field, earning quite a few laughs from Raihan.

Mami growls softly as she gently sets down Storm in a soft patch of grass. She turns her attention to the pair of sunglasses that Brie has thrown and catches them before they even touch the ground. Without any warning, she lifts Brie into the air and forces the sunglasses on her face.

"Put me down!" Brie wails, nearly dropping her crepe with her flailing.

"Dee!" Mami isn't putting her down until Brie promises that she won't remove her sunglasses. She knows Raihan often forgets to disable his camera's flash, so it's best if Brie learns to get used to wearing sunglasses…

"I won't laugh if you wear them, if that's what you're worried about." Raihan does his best to reassure Brie.

It hasn't been that long since the doctor had confirmed that Brie had in fact developed a minor sensitivity to light. He had given her a box of disposable sunglasses that she could easily fit into her pockets. And as convenient as they were, Brie wasn't exactly a fan of the design. Not helping were the children in the orphanage poking fun at Brie whenever she attempted to wear them.

Which is why Mami has been struggling with Brie to have her wear them. If she could get Brie to wear shoes for snowy weather, then she could get Brie to wear the ugly sunglasses…at least, until Opal could provide a much more fashionable replacement.

Thankfully, Raihan has been an absolute blessing in easing some of the trouble that Mami has been having. And yet, that still doesn't completely solve the issues Mami has with how Brie has been getting along with everyone else at the orphanage.

Carol has been trying her best to minimize the damages caused by Amanda, so that's something worth noting. Of course, that still doesn't change the attitude that a handful of children have developed from losing their ability to communicate with Pokémon. And while it is distressful period of time for them, that doesn't excuse them from taking out their frustrations on Brie.

Brie really doesn't deserve this…

"If you want, I can find you a better pair." Raihan reaches up to drag Brie out of the air, having little to no issue handling her weight after Mami cuts off her psychic energy. "Easy—easy!"

"Why are you so strong?!" Brie is absolutely baffled at Raihan's strength, which…isn't exactly that abnormal for a child of his age, considering the Trapinch at his side.

"Am I that strong?" Raihan tilts his head to the side. "Or maybe you just don't weigh a lot?"

"No way!" Brie scoffs.

Mami nods her head. "Dee."

From what she recalls, Brie is of an absolutely healthy weight for a child of her presumed age…which just so happens to be five years old. Brie has certainly flourished a lot after receiving enough vitamins to replenish some of her deficiencies. Just the other day, she lost a tooth while roughhousing with Raihan.

In turn, Raihan also lost a tooth and after the initial scare, the two were laughing it off after that. It was honestly quite an endearing sight to behold. If only Bayonetta and Dante were here to see this…

"Indeed." Mami decides that she'll just have to tell them when they see each other again. Hopefully, it's sometime soon. Though Brie tries to hide it, she is rather homesick.

Even Opal has noticed, from the way she shows up the next day to ease some of Brie's worries when she asks about the forest.

"Everything is fine as usual," Opal reassures her. "That being said, when are you going to introduce me to this new friend of yours?"

Apparently, all Opal has to do was ask, because Brie is especially eager to introduce her to Raihan. Raihan, upon seeing Opal, struggles to find his voice. His hands fumble with his camera, his teal-colored eyes staring widely at her in awe.

As this goes on, Mami takes to her usual habit of levitating Storm into the air with her psychic energy. Normally, Mami does her best to stay as involved as she possibly can whenever the situation involves Brie. However, this time…she decides that maybe Opal is more suited for the issues that Brie has.

…

…

"I've heard so much about you from Brie." Opal smiles warmly at the boy that immediately asks for her autograph. "How can I refuse such a polite boy?"

It takes a good five minutes for Raihan to calm down, after which he turns to Brie and asks, "Why didn't you tell me you knew Opal?!"

"I…didn't think it was that important." Brie laughs nervously, not knowing how to react to Raihan's sudden change in demeanor.

"In the Galar region, we take Gym battles quite seriously," Opal explains, her fingers gently running through Brie's hair in an attempt to calm her down. "As a result, most Gym Leaders have quite a prominent role to play each season."

"The final Gym Leader is in this city!" Raihan pipes up, a noticeable blush tinging his cheeks a dark shade of red. "She keeps to herself for the most part, but sometimes! Sometimes she comes to the park to visit!"

"Ahh, yes…I do believe she is currently looking for a successor." Opal adjusts her hat. "It's likely why you don't see her often during the off-season."

"Is that why?" Raihan looks at Opal in awe. "I never had that much of a chance to talk to her, like you…"

"You have Brie to thank for that." Opal laughs when Brie suddenly wraps her arms around her legs. "She'll be coming back with me soon."

"Really?!" Brie stares up at her in awe, her eyes completely hidden by the sunglasses that Opal had a caretaker strap around her head.

"You're leaving already?" Raihan frowns.

"Oh…ohh…" And just like that, Brie realizes she has a problem. "I'm sorry…"

"You don't have to apologize!" Raihan is quick to tell her. "It's not your fault."

"But…I want to go." Brie averts her gaze, looking somewhat ashamed.

"If you want to go, then go!" Raihan flashes her a toothy smile. "Don't let me stop you from doing what you want to do!"

"Raihan…" Brie bit her lip. "Thank you."

"It's nothing!" Raihan holds up his camera. "Just let me take a picture of you when you leave, okay?"

"You know…" Opal decides to interrupt the two. "It's almost time for classes to start at the local Trainer School."

"Oh yeah—I start next month!" Raihan grins widely. "Baba says I can become a Trainer as soon as I turn ten…but only if I get good grades!"

"That sounds reasonable." Trainer Schools are meant to prepare most children for the life of a Trainer. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone can become a Trainer. It is a lot harder than it seems, considering how much budgeting one has to do in order to maintain such a transient lifestyle. "Brie, would you like to join him?"

"I can?!" Brie has certainly become a lot louder in the month that she's spent away from the Glimwood Tangle…

"You'll start around the same time as Raihan, here," Opal explains to her. "And just like him, you shall be attending the Trainer School in this area."

"I don't mean to sound ungrateful, but…why?" Brie asks, likely questioning the distance between Ballonlea and Hammerlocke.

"Because it wouldn't be fair to tear you two apart." It's not a lie, even if the circumstances behind Brie's enrollment were a lot different from what Opal had said. While Brie was enrolled without any prior consultation due to Chairman Rose's impulsive actions, it really wouldn't do her any favors to separate her from Raihan, considering the difficulties that she's had with interacting with children her own age.

"So does that mean I have to ride on that taxi?" Brie makes a face.

"If you would rather stay at the orphanage…" Opal begins, only for Brie to cut her off with, "I'm good!"

"It's probably for the best!" Raihan laughs. "Some of the kids have been especially nasty to Brie."

"Ohh…is that so?" Opal turns her attention to Brie, who quickly distances herself from her. "Brie…what have you been hiding from me?"

"Ummm…" Beads of sweat rolled down the sides of Brie's face.

"You mean you haven't told anyone?" Raihan's eyes widen. "That's not good!"

"I…didn't want anyone to worry…" It is around this time that Mami approaches Brie, still levitating Raihan's Trapinch as she gently pats her head. "I'm sorry… I should've been more honest."

"It's not your fault." If anything, Opal feels that it's her fault alone. "I should have noticed that something was wrong."

Knowing how sensitive Mami is to Brie's emotions, Opal should have consulted her above everyone else. And yet, here she is, just watching as Mami does her best to comfort Brie when she starts to cry.

"Tell me, Raihan…what have these children been saying to my granddaughter?" It's the first time that she's explicitly referred to Brie as her granddaughter. Though the paperwork is still pending, that doesn't change how Opal feels about Brie at this point in time. She had made a mistake that had such dire consequences on Brie's wellbeing.

It's not enough that she's told Eleanor to keep her from feeling left out. There's only so much that can be done when Brie doesn't feel like informing others about the issues that she's kept to herself. Opal cannot even begin to fathom why Brie would even do such a thing to herself. That's when she realizes that it must have something to do with the life that Brie likely had before she was abandoned.

There's a jab that Opal feels in her chest as she watches Brie latch onto Mami. The pain only worsens as Brie's sobs grow louder and more intense.

"Is she going to be okay?" Raihan asks her, looking rather concerned for his friend.

"I honestly don't know." Opal can't even bring herself to lie to Raihan. "All we can do is ensure that she stays safe. Can you do that for me?"

"You can count on me." Raihan has such a determined look on his face. "I'll make sure she smiles again!"

And in order to do so, he tells Opal just what it is that the other children have been telling Brie. From there, it doesn't take Opal too long to find the source of all these issues, which leads to the dismissal of a volunteer by the name of Amanda. Amanda had been working at the orphanage as part of a mandatory summer project that required students of her age to participate in volunteer work.

"I apologize dearly for even giving her the benefit of the doubt." Eleanor apologizes profusely to Opal. "I will do my best to ensure that this never happens again."

The last any of them ever hear of Amanda is that she's been transferred over to sanitation work. While that goes on, Eleanor does her best to minimize the damages that Amanda has caused by the unnecessary comments she's made around the children. Little by little, the children stop repeating the words that they've heard.

About five days later, Opal finds herself receiving a call from Eleanor.

"I don't know what's happened, but we can't find Brie!" Eleanor is reasonably distraught.

"Has Mami said anything?" Opal is quick to ask.

"Mami—I…don't think so?" Eleanor's tone is uncertain, though based on the lack of input from Mami herself, then there really isn't much reason to worry.

"Then it's fine," Opal reassures her. "It seems that Mami has given Brie permission."

"Permission to do…what?" Opal herself isn't sure, but within the next fifteen minutes, the two receive an answer in the form Raihan's mother, Leila, calling the orphanage to inform them of Brie's whereabouts.

It seems that Raihan has invited Brie over to his house. There isn't much warning that he gives to anyone, and after a light scolding from his parents, Brie is allowed to spend the night. Opal approves it herself, deciding that there isn't any harm in giving Brie the freedom to spend time with her friend.

She brings up the topic to Annette, Theodora, and Teresa over dinner, which contributes to the lively discussion that they were already having over how quiet it has gotten since the number of the reporters going to them for information has lessened considerably with each passing day. It's only a matter of time now before Brie can return to them.

"I've heard children talking about a Hatterene wandering near the entrance of the Glimwood Tangle," Teresa changes the subject. "Do you think that's Brie's mother?"

"Hard to say without her around, though…that does explain why there aren't that many children out and about." Annette brings a spoonful of chowder to her mouth.

"I thought it was just—Oolong, you sly brat!" Theodora scolds the Sinistea that has tried to disguise itself as her cup of tea. "You know you can't pull a fast one on me like that!"

Opal only chuckles as she watches the parent Polteageist collect its child from Theodora. "I hope that Brie doesn't mind that we've named them without her input."

"It's fine—we still got this nameless one over here." Annette gestures at the Sinistea with a coloration that is far different from its siblings. "Decided to leave this one for her to name, since Theodora wouldn't stop calling it a homewrecker."

"That's because it is one!" Theodora doesn't even try to hide her bitterness. "I still paid for that tea set!"

"Yes, yes, and that tea set had an atrocious design—let us move past that." Opal tries her hardest to hide the amused smile on her face. She fails when Theodora points it out.

Nevertheless, the four of them all laugh. It's all in good fun.

…

…

I haven't known Raihan that long, but it's hard to deny how attached I've gotten to him. He's a pretty nice kid, with a cute smile that's just so damn contagious. His family is just as nice, with a lovely mother by the name of Leila, and a massive giant for a father by the name of Jamal. And as impressive as Jamal was with his height, I couldn't turn my attention away from the apple that I spotted crawling across the floor.

Hello?

"This is Atiya!" Raihan lifts the apple off the ground without any hesitation, holding it closely to my face.

Did that thing just blink?!

What I thought were leaves on the top of the apple in Raihan's hand weren't actually leaves…they were eyes, because apparently, sticking out from the back of an apple, was this green, worm-like creature.

"Atiya is an Applin!" Raihan explained to me. "She doesn't do much, but…she's part of the family, so say hello!"

"Liiiinnn." Atiya squirmed around in Raihan's hand.

"Hello." What a peculiar creature…I love it. "It's a Pokémon…right?"

"Yep!" Raihan grinned. "Baba gave her to Mama one day…so here I am now!"

"Ahh…" Interesting… "Can I hold her?"

"Sure!" Raihan hands the apple over to me. "Just be careful—she likes to shout."

"App!" Holy crap—that's loud!

"And that's Astonish." Raihan sighed. "You'll get used to it."

Huh…reminds me of Hattena's Disarming Voice, only…more cringy.

Uuugh, who put bees under my skin?!

I'm hoping this feeling goes away soon, because all too suddenly, I'm aware of clothes that are covering my skin. It's not a nice feeling…but I manage, if only because Atiya took an instant liking to me.

"Liiiin!" Aww, you're kinda cute when you're not making my skin crawl with your screams!

"Trap trap!" And it seems like Storm is getting jealous from the way he's nudging his mouth against my feet.

"I'm not gonna forget you—no biting!" Raihan told you it's rude—learn to listen.

"Piiiin." Storm averted his gaze, trying to pretend as though he didn't try to nip my ankles.

"I forgive you!" I knelt down to Storm's level, soon holding out the Applin in my hands. "So when were you gonna introduce me to your cute friend?"

"Trap trap!" Aww, what a shy boy you are! "I didn't know you were his mama!"

"Liiin." Atiya seemed rather proud of that.

I don't think they're blood-related, but that doesn't stop Atiya from treating Storm like her own child, despite the massive size difference between the two. It's honestly cute…

"Don't know how anyone could think you're pretending." Raihan catches me by surprise with the way he just suddenly crouches down to my level. "You're like the only one who got their relationship right without being told about it."

"Isn't it obvious?" There's just something so distinct about the tone that Atiya uses to speak to Storm. It's affectionate and friendly, but in a way that reminded me of Dante. It's a tone that parent Pokémon use around their children.

"Hmmm…" Raihan tilted his head to the side. "I guess…"

"Linap!" Ohh, it seems Atiya feels the same way about you, Raihan!

"Ehehe, you're her child, too!" I brought Atiya closer to Raihan's face, allowing her to give his nose a gentle boop with her apple.

"Is that how you feel about me?" Raihan's eyes lit up with glee. "Mama! You'll never guess what Brie just told me!"

It didn't take Jamal and Leila that long to accept that I could communicate with Pokémon. Though, it certainly helped that Raihan wouldn't stop talking about me to his parents.

"I'm surprised it took him this long to bring you home to us." Jamal laughed as he ruffled his son's hair. "Follow me—there's someone I'd like you to meet."

And that someone just so happened to be Jamal's Drampa, Omar. And geez, that's a long fluffy boy!

"Draaa!" Like most Drampa, Omar was an absolute friendly Pokémon towards children. I was certainly no exception from the way he extended his head to nuzzle me.

Holy crap!

I didn't think that it was covered entirely in fur… I'm so used to most dragons having scales—but not this dragon!

So soft!

"You pass." Jamal laughed as he clapped his hand on Raihan's shoulder. "You made a good friend."

"I know!" Raihan smiled widely as he held up his camera to take a picture of me and Omar.

Flash!

Thanks to the sunglasses that I was wearing, I didn't have to worry much about reacting so negatively to the camera's bright light. That being said, I'd still rather not wear these things—but I guess we can't always get what we want.

"Draaaaa." At least there's this big, soft boy to make everything better.

Omar was living the life, having a room within this house set aside specifically for him. There's just enough space for him to move around comfortably, with toys laying about to keep him entertained and a big bowl full of berries that Raihan had to keep Storm from getting anywhere near it.

"You'll get your dinner in a bit!" Raihan laughed as his Trapinch started nibbling on his hand. "My hand is not food!"

"Trap traaa!" Storm knows that, but that won't stop him from being a bit nippy.

Just what is it with these Pokémon that have big jaws that makes them always wanting to nip people?

Maybe it's a way they show their affection…

Storm ends up proving me right when he nips my ankles about a few minutes later. It didn't hurt, but it sure did make me scream. However, unlike Missy, Storm's actions didn't dissuade me from wanting to train a Trapinch, though…I did reconsider my options in the near future to take up strength-training. Even now, I can barely lift Storm into my arms without toppling over.

Although, maybe that's more of Storm's size, combined with his weight, disrupting my balance? Could also be because I'm long overdue for a growth spurt, so I'm pretty short for a child of my physical age. Maybe if Storm was just a bit smaller, then I wouldn't have these issues…probably.

Hard to say, since I can't exactly shrink Storm.

…

Or can I?

Hmmm…

"Tra?" Storm gave me such a curious look as he stared at me from under the table. He quickly turned his attention away when Leila filled his bowl with rice. She was pretty generous with his portion, not holding back as she spoke to him in such a babyish voice.

"Mama, you're embarrassing me!" Raihan whined. "Not in front of my friend!"

I couldn't keep myself from laughing.

"Hush now!" Leila clicked her tongue. "If you want Storm to grow up big and strong, then you have to make sure he eats a lot."

"The same goes for you two." Jamal gestured at the plates that Leila had set down for me and Raihan.

"Umm…thanks." That…sure is a lot of food. And the portion only gets bigger when Leila gives me an extra scoop of rice.

"You should eat more—you're so small." Leila patted me on the head before sitting herself down at the table. "There's a plate of baklava waiting for you two once you're done."

"Really?!" Raihan's eyes lit up.

"Of course." Leila smiled. "Have you ever had baklava, Brie?"

"Not…that I can recall." I have a pretty shitty memory, so if I did have baklava before, then I sure as hell don't fucking remember it.

"Well, you're in for a treat!" Jamal said as he reached down to pick up Atiya off the floor. He set her down on the table, placing her near a bowl that was filled with bright-red apples. "Take your time, Atiya."

"Liiiin." Atiya proceeded to do just that as she carefully scrutinized each apple in the bowl.

I don't know what I was expecting from Atiya, but it sure as hell wasn't her leaving her apple for a different one. And wow, I was not expecting her to look like an actual worm…

Is she part bug?

She certainly looks like it, from the way she reminds me of those worms that burrow into apples. And like those worms, Atiya laid claim to the apple that had caught her eye. She spent no time digging into the apple, soon returning back to her usual appearance, with her eyes sticking out from the top like a pair of leaves.

"Liii." She was pretty happy.

When I had finished eating, I spent the next hour or so just laying on the floor with Raihan, the both of us stuffed from all the food we had eaten. Storm teetered his way over to us, quickly plopping his head right on Raihan's stomach. Raihan grunted from the sudden weight on his stomach, but he didn't really move, just letting it happen as Storm got comfortable.

The minutes went by, and Leila eventually set down a plate of the baklava she had promised us.

"Be sure to share with Omar—you know how much he likes his sweets." Speaking of Omar, he's right over there, just chilling in his massive bed, not really caring that we were intruding on his space. In fact, he actually started making his way over to us. He laid his head down, his red eyes just staring at us as he watched Raihan reach out to grab a slice of baklava from the plate.

Without any warning, Omar reached out and snatched the baklava from Raihan's hand.

"Hey—wait your turn!" Despite Raihan's words, he was more amused than annoyed. He laughed loudly as he tried to keep the plate away from Omar. "If you want a slice, you might want to get it now while there's still some left!"

By the time Leila came back to check up on us, Raihan and I were covered in Drampa slobber, courtesy of Omar, who had done his best to clean up the mess we made with a plate of baklava. He meant well, buuut…yeah.

This is kinda gross.

But I guess I'm used to it after living around a bunch of mischievous Impidimp.

"Not again…" Leila sighed. "Alright—into the bath you go!"

Apparently, this isn't the first time that Omar's done this. The only difference is that Raihan wasn't alone this time. He and I got thrown into the bathroom at the same time and told not to come out until we were clean. So, uhhh…here we are.

Splash!

"Gotcha!" Raihan laughed after sending a wave of soapy water my way.

I shook my head, trying my best not to let any of the suds get in my eyes. Afterwards, I cupped my hands and dipped them into the water. While Raihan was laughing his ass off, I had stood up in the bath without him noticing. Then, without any warning whatsoever, I let the water in my hands pour over his head. Almost at once, did he stop laughing.

So now it was my turn to laugh. "Ahahhahaha!"

I just couldn't help it. This reminded me so much of the life I had in the forest. After all, I was never truly alone, so I had to get used to it fast. Life wasn't that much different at the orphanage either, especially during bath time. The only actual difference is that I felt far more comfortable around Raihan than a bunch of other children who I barely even knew…with the exception of the toddlers. They were funny, okay?!

Ferdinand made the funniest comments around them because he actually had to watch his language. Of course, that didn't stop Mami from smacking him over the head every once in a while.

I would honestly die for Ferdie.

And this isn't me having some sort of guilt over what happened in my Verdant Wind run of Fire Emblem Three Houses—ohhh no.

"We killed Ferdie!"

Definitely…not…

Get out of my head!

Okay, that's enough thinking about that! The door just opened, and Leila is letting in Storm. Storm lets out a few noises that sounds suspiciously like an annoyed hiss, but Leila lightly scolds him before giving his backside a gentle nudge with her foot.

"You need a bath too!" Leila tells him. "The sand should be nice and hot by now, so dig to your heart's content."

"Trap traaa!" That was enough to convince Storm to keep moving forward instead of forcing his way out of the bathroom. He made his way over to this peculiar sandbox that was located in the corner of the bathroom, as far away from the water Raihan and I were splashing around.

"What's that for?" I honestly thought it was just a sandbox, but now, I don't know what to think.

"It's where Storm takes his baths," Raihan explained. "He's a ground-type, so he doesn't like water that much."

Storm does, however, like sand—especially if it's nice and hot. He takes his first step into the sandbox and plops right on in, soon rolling around to let the sand coat his skin. At one point, Raihan has to get out of the bath prop Storm right on his stomach, earning a somewhat annoyed hiss over the leftover droplets of water on Raihan's hands that come in contact with skin. Shortly after, Storm started digging into the sand, making sure to send a wave of it at Raihan.

"Hey!" Raihan spat out a few grains that had managed to enter his mouth. "Don't be rude!"

"He really doesn't like water." I leaned my head against the edge of the tub as I watched Storm submerge himself in sand.

"He can't get up on his own if he flips over, so I have to help right back up," Raihan explained as he made his way back to the bath. "It's why he's not allowed go into the bath alone."

"I guess that makes sense." I think recall reading something about that in the Ultra Sun Pokédex…something about Sandile? Ehh? It's been a while, and like…I don't exactly have access to Bulbapedia anymore, so…whatever.

We got out of the bath after like ten minutes, Raihan quickly getting dressed as soon as he dried off in order to collect Storm from the sandbox. I took my time, if only for the fact that Leila had left out some of Raihan's clothes for me to wear, as the ones I had been wearing were currently in the wash, no thanks to Omar's saliva.

Maybe I should've thought ahead before going along with Raihan's plans…

It was Raihan's idea to spend the night at his house, and it happened in the spur of the moment, so all I really had were the clothes on my back. Mami stayed behind to pass on the message, which says a lot about how much she trusts Raihan. He was pretty happy about that.

Afterwards, Leila dropped by to ensure that our hair was dried properly. She took her time with my hair, though she spent a lot more time with Raihan, due to the differences in our hair textures, as well as the fact that he had his styled into dreads. It was an interesting experience (interesting in the fact that Raihan kept trying to convince his mother that he had in handled, but Leila wasn't having it) that left Raihan smelling like coconut once his mother was done.

"You smell nice." I couldn't help myself. It came out before I even had a chance to think twice about it.

"You smell nice too!" Thankfully, Raihan didn't mind. He smiled back at me before reaching out to pat me on the head.

"Pin-pinch!" And you smell like sand, Storm… It's honestly not that bad of a scent on you. "Piiiii!"

Aww, shucks—you're really too cute! "Come here!"

I didn't even care that Storm toppled me over with his weight. Even when Raihan used it as an opportunity to snap a picture. Afterwards, he took me by the hand and led me to his room, where he had a wall pinned with many of the photographs he had taken with his camera. It was a lot like in Lilo and Stitch, with Lilo's hobby, only Raihan was pickier with what he put on his wall.

"Every picture that doesn't end up on the wall goes into an album," Raihan explained as he set Storm on his bed. "The ones that make it here are the one's that I find really special—like this one right here!"

He pointed at the photograph he took of me and Mami. He was especially proud of it, from the way he had it framed.

"I had Mama pick out the frame for me." Raihan smiled widely, showing off his fang. "We need to take one together soon! I'll get Baba to help—you okay with that?"

"I'm good!" Just let me know when. Would rather be prepared this time…

Gotta make it special, y'know?

Too bad the picture that Jamal ended up taking was of us sleeping together on Raihan's bed. It happened without any warning, and for better or worse, Raihan actually liked what came out of it. He wouldn't stop laughing over how I ignored the number of pillows covering his bed in favor of his stomach. Raihan himself was splayed on his back, drool trickling down the side of his mouth. You'd think he'd care about that, but surprisingly not—it didn't change his opinion whatsoever. If anything, he immediately asked his father to have it developed.

"I'll show it to you when it's done!" Raihan said before handing the camera back to his father. "C'mon—it's almost time for breakfast!"

We didn't leave the house until sometime after breakfast. Raihan wanted me to stay a little longer before he took me back to the orphanage. Though, he didn't exactly take me there straight away—we took a small detour to the park. In his defense, it wouldn't be that long before the caretakers took the other children to the park for their daily outing.

That being said, something was up today. Something very peculiar.

"What's up?" Raihan noticed almost immediately.

"I don't know." From what I can see, there was a group of children gathered around one of the park benches. Every few seconds or so, they would scatter, before quickly moving back in.

"Want ta check it out?" Raihan, you know me too well. "Keep your guard up, Storm!"

"Trapinch!" Storm nodded his head.

Once we were close enough, we could make out the things the children were saying to each other as they crowded the bench.

"Poke it."

"No—it'll just scream again!"

"It's gonna scream even if you don't."

"HAAA!" An earsplitting shriek echoed throughout the park, causing many people to visibly cringe—including Raihan, who almost dropped Storm, and most of the kids surrounding the bench. Needless to say, the children put some distance between them and the bench…but they still stuck around.

I had to pause for a moment, because there was something rather strange about that scream…like… I might've heard it before…

"Moooorgg!" And that was when a very, very familiar face popped out of the bushes, scaring the crap out of the kids. This pushed them into finally running away. "Grrrr."

It was a Morgrem…but not just any Morgrem—oh no. "Vlad?!"

The Morgrem blinked a few times, looking around the area before his gaze fell on me. A wide smile crossed his expression as he called out for me.

"You know him?" Raihan asked me.

"Yeah!" Of course I know him! "He's my brother!"

Who should be in the forest and not here—what the fuck is he doing here?!

"Mormorr!" Excuse me?!

Vlad crawled under the bench and pulled out a very angry hat.

"Teteteeeen!" Oh my fucking god—Bayonetta and Dante are gonna be so fucking pissed!

"Is something the matter?" Raihan, you sweet, innocent boy…

You are so lucky to not to be fully involved in this family matter of mine.

"They're not supposed to be here!" I ran over to Vlad and put my hands on his shoulders. "How did you get here?!"

A small bead of sweat rolled down the side of Vlad's face. "Mor…greeeem?"

I turned my attention downwards to the Hatenna in his arms. She looked up at me, a smile soon forming on her face. "Hahaaaaa!"

What do you mean you found me?!

Vlad furrowed his brow. "Greeemmm morr."

I blinked a few times, letting out a startled shriek when the Hatenna jumped into my arms.

"Nnnaaaaa!" The Hatenna buried her face into my chest. She sniffed a few times as she pressed her body closer to mine. "Naahaaa!"

"What's she sayin'?" Raihan looked over my shoulder. "This your family too?"

"Yeah…" I felt my eyes tearing up. "She missed me…that's why she's here."

This little one found me missing one day, and even though Bayonetta and Dante told her that I would be back, that wasn't what she wanted to hear. So she left to go look for me. Vlad just followed after her, because it was his duty to keep an eye on his younger siblings, being the oldest.

And so here they are, after a few weeks of traveling. They got lost a few times, on account that they didn't know where the fuck I was. And it didn't help that this Hatenna in particular just knew how to escape from Vlad's hold, which kept him from taking her back home.

So rather than even try, Vlad decided to just indulge in his youngest sister's desire to find me. He didn't actually think she'd succeed, so…here we are.

"Naaaa!" The Hatenna stared up at me, looking especially proud of herself. "Naahaat!"

"Name?" Ohhh, right…I never gave you one.

It's not that I haven't tried—it's that this little one just turned down every name I suggested to her. Though, to be fair—she wasn't taking it as seriously as everyone else, as she wanted to play more instead of talk. But I guess she's changed her mind now, from how keenly she was staring at me.

"Hmmm…" Lemme think hard on this one. From the way your older sisters and your mother are so eager to beat the living shit out of anything that pisses them off… "How about Martha?"

The Hatenna tilted her head to the side. "Naaa?"

"Martha—that's your name," I reiterated slowly. "You okay with it?"

"Haahaaaa!" She nodded her head eagerly.

"Alright, Martha!" I brought her up to my face, letting her come close enough to rub her cheek affectionately against mine. "I'm sorry I left without saying anything… I didn't think it'd take this long to come back."

"Nanaha!" Oof, so no one told her, huh? Geez… "Hateeen!"

"Well…I'm here!" And so are you and Vlad! "Oh…this is Raihan!"

I gestured at Raihan, who lifted his hand to wave at Martha and Vlad. "Hello!"

There was a growl that rumbled in the back of Vlad's throat as he moved in closer to get a better look at Raihan.

"Uhhh…is he mad at me?" Raihan gulped when Vlad got right in his face. "H-Heyy…I'm your sister's friend."

Vlad tilted his head to the side, taking a moment to look over his shoulder at me. After seeing me nod my head, he turned back to Raihan and patted him on the head. "Morg."

"Is that good?" Raihan laughed nervously.

"It's good!" You passed—so that should be saying something.

"Trapinch!" Storm wriggled impatiently in Raihan's arms, almost snapping at Vlad when he patted him on the head.

Vlad blinked a few times before laughing out loud. "Morgreem!"

"Oh…Storm passed, too." Yeah, they're gonna get along quite nicely. Just give it some time—trust me on that. "Crap—we need to tell Mami about it!"

"Teeennnaa." Oh hush now, Martha. Who decided to go on a dangerous journey to find me? You did—now own up to the consequences from your second mother… As soon as we get to her.

"Morg!" Vlad held up his hand for a moment before running off.

"Did something happen?" Raihan asked me after about a minute.

"He said he had to go get something." What it is, I don't exactly know, but from the way he was rushing to get to it, it had to be something important.

Within the next few minutes, while we were waiting for Vlad to return, I spent the time introducing Martha to Raihan and Storm. It was a bit of a challenge, since Martha kept wanting to scream. She was not a fan of strangers, considering she spent the last few weeks having to avoid curious Trainers wanting to catch her or Vlad.

"Geez, you should've just waited!" I don't know what I'd do if I came back and found you…missing… "Ohhhh, I'm sorryyy—I didn't think it'd be like that for you."

For some of us in the forest, we had to deal with the fact that our friends could disappear at any time. Trainers come and go, and alongside that, so does life. Sometimes, Pokémon just choose to leave. And other times, tragedies happen…

Martha thought that she would never see me again and rather than wait for me, she searched for me to ease some of her worst fears. With how much things have changed since the night of the fire, it's easy to forget the trauma that it had caused for all of us…

…

Well…almost forget.

Sometimes, I still have nightmares. But for the most part, it's easy for me to put it out of my head. Out of sight, out of mind, I guess… Though, that still doesn't stop me from asking about the forest every once in a while.

"Your family is pretty interesting!" Raihan's voice snapped me out of my thoughts.

"Ahh…well—you haven't really seen all of them just yet!" I smiled widely at Raihan when he asked what I meant by that. "You'll see!"

Since Raihan introduced me to his parents, I feel that it's only natural that I do the same as well. Of course, that'll have to wait until later, when I'm back home again with Opal. But for the time being, I guess I'll just keep this to myself…

I wonder how the others will react to him…

Vlad seems to like him just fine, so I'd say it won't really be that much of an issue. It all really depends on how willing Boop's mother is to allow someone like Raihan into the forest.

Maybe I should show her a picture of him and Storm…

Hmmm… "Hey, when you can… Can you give me a picture of yourself?"

"Huh? Oh sure." Raihan grinned. "Just give me a few days, okay?"

"Gotcha!" Things are certainly going smoothly… Such a shame that's all going to change when Mami finds out that her kids left the forest without telling anyone. Oh man, is she going to be disappointed in Vlad— "Huh?"

Speaking of Vlad, there he is, carrying what appears to be an…egg? Is that a fucking egg in his arms?

"Mormorg." Vlad was smiling widely as he dashed up to me. He gestured at the egg in his arms, cradling it lovingly as he rocked it gently from left to right.

"That's an egg." I can see that, Raihan. "Why does he have an egg?"

"I have no idea." According to Vlad, he just found it—like, that's it. No one gave it to him. He and Martha just stumbled across it one day, and being who he is, Vlad took it upon himself to take the egg along.

The egg was mainly purple in coloration, with white-colored spots speckled all over it. The shell was smooth, but hard, and it was quite warm to the touch. There were faint movements coming from inside, which Vlad was quite happy to feel. I don't have that much experience with Pokémon eggs, but I think it's safe to say that this one is pretty healthy.

"You know, Pokémon eggs are pretty weird." I'd say you're stating the obvious, Raihan, but I'll humor you.

"How so?" Might as well take the time to turn this into a learning experience.

"Some eggs hatch better when they're buried—like Storm's egg." Raihan grinned as he looked down at Storm. "He hatched out of the sand."

"Hmmm…I think I've seen some Morelull come out of the ground." I'm not too sure, but Boop might've been the same as them, from the way they've spawned out of the ground one day. "Is it a grass-type thing?"

"I think so?" Raihan tilted his head to the side. "Hmmm…it's hard to say, since there's still so much that we don't know about Pokémon eggs. Like…some Pokémon don't even hatch from eggs!"

Yeah, I remember what happened with Sylveon and her litter of Eevee. That was super fucking weird, but whatever—I honestly should've expected it, considering how different this reality is from the games I've played. That still didn't keep me from freaking out about it. Though, that's probably because Sylveon decided that my lap was the most comfortable place to take a nap, so when those babies inside of her started moving, I felt that.

…

Oh right! "I saw a Polteageist spawn Sinistea using empty teacups!"

"Really?!" Raihan's eyes went wide. "That's so cool!"

And it's just part of many other ways that Pokémon can reproduce. This world is so strange, yet wonderful. Full of so many mysteries that remain unsolved, with so many opportunities to forge bonds with others.

I didn't come into this world willingly—that I know for sure. I left behind many people, with no way of ever knowing how they're getting by without me in their lives. My chest hurts each time I think about it, so I look beyond the life I had before. I turn to the new memories I've made with those that are close to me.

I have felt pain and sorrow…but also joy and love. These emotions mix together, creating this bittersweet sensation that resonates deeply within my chest. I have been hurt in ways that time can only heal. There is trauma caused by the fire that set my home ablaze, due to a Trainer's selfish desires. There are rejections that have left their impact on me, in ways that still frustrate me.

But as I stand here, with friends and family, I find myself thinking that this is fine. Because no matter what happens, I'm not alone.

So it's okay.

It's okay to live in the moment, to just enjoy life as it happens. It's what I choose to do, so I smile at the uncertain future that's ahead of me. Because this is my life now.

And I'm okay with that.

…

…

Eleanor has spent most of her life caring for children at the orphanage. It's the life she chose for herself, having grown up in an orphanage herself. She knows just how bad things can get, so she always tries her best to ensure that every child in her care lives a happy and healthy life.

Children come and go, either with new families or on a journey of their own, with a Pokémon at their side. Sometimes, they come back. Other times, they don't. Life goes on, and for the most part, there's not much Eleanor can do about it. What she can do, however, is ensure that the children under her care can leave this orphanage with enough happy memories to keep them moving forward.

It's why she feels so guilty over the harm that's been caused by her decision to give a volunteer a second chance. She considers herself fortunate that Opal had been there to point out the oversight she had made, but the damage has already been done. The most Eleanor can do, for now, is minimize its effects.

From the very beginning, Eleanor knew Brie wasn't like other children her age. She is an anomaly, yes, but Brie is still a child that deserves a safe place to live. In that sense, she is just like every other child in this orphanage.

It won't be that long before Opal finally comes to collect Brie for good—not as the Gym Leader of Ballonlea, but her grandmother. Until that day comes, Eleanor will continue watching over Brie, ensuring that she remains safe until the very end.

When Brie finally arrives at the orphanage, she is not alone. Besides her friend and his Trapinch, are two new Pokémon that Eleanor hasn't seen before. Brie introduces the Pokémon as her family, giving a name for each one. Despite the questions Eleanor wants to ask, she keeps them to herself as she excuses herself to make a call to Opal.

"One thing at a time," Eleanor tells herself. "One thing at a time…"

…

…

Surprisingly enough, Mami took well to Vlad and Martha's sudden appearance…though not without breaking a couple of vases. After all, a psychic Pokémon's worst enemy can be their own emotions, and Mami's emotions had flared up so suddenly, that she barely had time to react.

Thankfully, no one was hurt, though she did have Vlad clean up the mess with a broom while she took care of the egg he was carrying in his arms. She held it closely to her head, closing her eyes as she listened carefully for…something.

After about a minute, she lowered the egg from her face and let out a few chirps. It's a healthy egg, alright—just no confirmation on how long it'll take to hatch.

"Is that normal?" I turned to Raihan, since he seemed to know more about this than me.

"Uhhh, some eggs can take quite a long time to hatch." Raihan closed his eyes in thought as he removed his hand from Storm's mouth. "Others, not so much… It's really weird."

"Dee." Mami gently caressed the egg's shell.

The right time? "Wait…do eggs have a choice in when they decide to hatch?"

"Indeed." Mami nodded her head as she maneuvered the egg into her arms, cradling it lovingly before humming a pleasant tune.

"So…they're like seeds, then!" Raihan proclaimed.

"Seeds?" That's a weird way of…wait—you're onto something Raihan! "Seeds only sprout under the right conditions!"

I think that's what Mami meant by the right time!

"Haaa." Ohh, sorry Martha—you're probably confused about this. "Naaaha."

Martha moved around in my arms a few times before finding a comfortable position. She fell asleep right after that, not caring whatsoever that she was getting drool all over my sleeve.

"Love you too." I missed these moments so much… "You're not angry—are you?"

Mami gave a stern look that otherwise answered me question. Yes, she was mad—but mostly out of concern for what risks that Vlad and Martha had taken when they left the forest.

"Reminds me of Mama when I do something dangerous." Raihan patted me on the shoulder. "It'll be fine—it just means she cares."

Yeah, I guess you're right…why am I worried?! I'm not the one in trouble!

But you are the reason why they left.

Dammit brain, I don't need this guilt!

"Dee." Mami patted me on the head, reassuring me that it wasn't my fault.

"See?" Raihan smiled widely. "She cares!"

I mean, he's not wrong, but…whatever—I'll give him that one. "You wanna go…play?"

We can hang out in the indoor playground, since it should be pretty empty now that most of the children have gone outside.

"Sure, why not!" Raihan was up for it.

"Trap trap!" And so was Storm.

Martha was still asleep, so I don't expect her to be saying anything for the next hour or so… It all really depends on just how long she stays asleep. As for Vlad…

"Send him over when he's done." I'm guessing that there's another reason why Mami is having Vlad sweep up the broken glass, but whatever it is, she's keeping quiet for the time being.

It might have to do with Martha…or maybe even the egg. Hell, it's likely both, but I'm guessing the topic's somewhat serious if Mami doesn't feel like discussing it in front of me and the others.

I never do find out what it is that they talked about, but I don't think it matters much. Vlad and Martha are safe and sound, and Raihan manages to stick around just a little longer before finally heading back home with Storm.

Later in the evening, I had to deal with curious children trying to get close to Vlad and Martha. Thankfully, Ferdinand stepped in to keep them away, since Mami was too busy keeping watch on the egg in her arms. Don't know why she just doesn't hand it over to Vlad, but I guess she's trying to give him a break.

Thinking of it now… "How long were you carrying that egg?"

"Mooorg…" What do you mean you don't know?!

Holy fuck, no wonder Mami's keeping the egg away from him—he does need a break!

"You need to take care of yourself!" I know you're the oldest, but that doesn't mean you're not allowed to kick back every once in a while.

"Mor…" A small bead of sweat rolled down the side of Vlad's face. "Greeemmmm."

"It's fine—just be more careful, okay?" For what it's worth, I'm glad you're okay. I know Martha can be quite the handful, but I can't even begin to imagine how much more difficult it was while out of the forest… "You're quite the troublemaker, you know?"

"Naahaha!" Martha only laughed. She's far too happy to care that she's in trouble. I guess it was all worth it, since she managed to find me in the end.

"Wait for me next time." I don't wanna deal with this again. It's a lot more stressful than it was initially, now that it's finally sinking in.

"Tennna." Alright, you little brat—I'll take you with me, then! Will that make you happy? "Hahaaa!"

I huffed out a laugh. "I guess you're stuck with me, huh?"

Martha only let out a moderately loud shriek as her response.

…

Opal showed up the next day, somewhat surprised to see Vlad and Martha. Though, I think she was more surprised to see the egg in Mami's arms.

"Where did you get that?" she asked.

"Vlad just found it," I explained. "Why?"

"No reason—just curious." Opal sighed as she tugged down on her hat. "Your family is full of surprises."

"Blame Martha!" I held Martha up in the air. "She's the one who looked for me."

"Haha!" And Martha is still so damn proud of herself for finding me.

"Is there any way I can keep her on me?" I don't want to leave her alone again, if she's just going to follow after me.

"Hmm…I may be able to provide you a Poké Ball," Opal replied, a smile soon forming on her lips. "Is there any preference?"

"Uhhh…" I lowered Martha to get a good look at her. Just what would be good for her…

"I'd recommend a Luxury Ball to ease any troubles she might have." Opal's gaze shifted over to the egg in Mami's arms. "We should probably get an egg case for that…"

"Whatever works best!" I'm still new to this, so I'm leaving it up for Opal to decide. She knows a lot more than I do, though that doesn't stop her from asking me for my input.

In the end, she decided to take me to the nearest Poké Mart, which was located inside of a Pokémon Center.

Glad to see that hasn't changed.

Of course, it could be a regional thing, since Let's Go kept it separate…

I miss Shuten.

Oh well, at least I have Martha, here, with Mami and Vlad…and whatever is going to come out of that egg— "Is this egg mine?"

"It might as well be, since it was your brother who found it." Huh, I guess that makes sense… "You should also pick out a Poké Ball for the egg, so you have it ready for when it hatches."

"Okaayyy!" I guess we'll have another addition to our family soon…or however long it takes for this egg to hatch. There's no rush, though I at least hope it doesn't take too long.

I wonder what's going to come out…

Only time will tell, and this egg isn't keen on coming out just yet. The days go on, and the egg remains relatively still, save for the faint movements that sometimes come from within. The egg now resides in a case that kept it both safe and warm, allowing Vlad and Mami the freedom to move around without having to carry the egg in their arms.

Martha has since calmed down considerably, having been allowed to pick out a Poké Ball before bopping her head against the button to let it catch her. And that's how I now have my very first Pokémon—it's a Hatenna, and…I don't know how I should feel about this.

I'm like so used to getting a Starter Pokémon, so it's a little jarring to start out with something else. Oh well… I guess if I had to start out with someone, I'm glad it's Martha.

"Haahaa!" And Martha's just as happy, too, seeing as there's no other way for her to get left behind now.

As for Vlad, he's a little conflicted, but mostly because I couldn't exactly catch him—the Poké Ball refused to work on him. According to Opal, it's because he's too strong for me to catch. Galar has this defense mechanism in its Poké Balls to prevent inexperienced Trainers from catching Pokémon that are far too strong for them to handle. I have to start collecting Gym Badges if I want to catch Vlad, which…requires me to get an endorsement letter so I can participate in the Gym Challenge.

Geez, Galar doesn't fuck around here.

This region really does take Gym battles seriously, which is why Opal told me ahead of time that I'll have to prove to her that I have what it takes if I want her to endorse me.

When I brought this up to Raihan, he flipped.

"You have any idea how hard it is to get endorsed?!" No…I actually don't—please elaborate. "For some people, it takes them years! If you do it right, you'll be able to go at it once you turn ten!"

"Ohh…" That sounds reasonable…wait— "What about you?"

Raihan rubbed his nose. "I have to find someone first, which…you know."

"I see." Wow… "Want me to ask Opal?"

"Hmmm…we'll see!" Raihan flashed me a toothy smile. "Want ta be rivals?"

"Uh…will we stay friends?" I don't want this go downhill if we do become rivals.

"Of course we will!" Raihan exclaimed. "From now, till the very end, we'll always be friends! Nothing will change that—not even if we become rivals."

"If that's the case…then sure!" I'm up for it, although…I don't think we should have Martha and Storm fight each other anytime soon—if only for the fact that Vlad will step in, and that's the last thing I want him doing.

Speaking of Martha and Storm, they're currently napping together, with Vlad keeping a close eye on them. Mami is back at the orphanage, helping out with the children and keeping a close eye on that egg.

"Anyways, I heard you're leaving tomorrow…" Raihan frowned.

"Oh…" I almost forgot about that. "I'll visit you!"

"I know, I just…don't want to wait." Raihan scratched the back of his head. "It's weird, but…you're the only kid who wants to hang out with me. Before you came along, I was just that weird camera kid."

"Pfft." I couldn't help but laugh at that.

"I'm being serious!" I know, it's just…that's a really bad insult to call anyone.

"At least it's better than being called a liar." Look on the bright side, Raihan. We're not alone anymore, so hey—what does it matter what people call us now?

"Hmm…I guess you're right." There's that smile again! "Make sure to visit me often!"

"I will!" I'll even force myself to get past my fear of falling so I can take the Corviknight Taxi without any issues.

Man, that's gonna suck…

But at least it'll be worth it so I can hang out with Raihan again… "Ohh! Why don't you visit me, too?"

"Ohh, I need to ask Baba and Mama first!" Oh man, I can't wait to introduce you to everyone else… "I'll let you know when I can, okay?"

"Yeah!" I should definitely tell Opal about this. "So…you wanna hang out a little longer?"

"Yeah…" It's starting to get late, but Raihan and I weren't so keen on going our separate ways just yet. "Hey…I got you something."

"Hmm?" What have you been keeping from me this entire time?

"Close your eyes!" Raihan grinned widely before moving closer to me. "C'mon—no peeking!"

"Alright!" I closed my eyes, letting Raihan do whatever he wanted…which was taking off my sunglasses. "What're you doing?"

"You'll see!" was all Raihan told me.

"It better not be anything weird!" There will be hell to pay in the pettiest of ways!

"It's not!" Raihan reassured me as something touched the bridge of my nose. "Now open them!"

And so I did. "Huh…is this what you got me?"

"Yeah!" It was another pair of sunglasses, only…different? I can't exactly say, because I can't see them, so Raihan quickly fixes the problem by taking a picture of me. "You're always complaining about how ugly your sunglasses are…so I decided to get you a better pair! You like them?"

I didn't give an answer at first, seeing as I was too busy examining the new pair of sunglasses on my face. They honestly weren't that bad, though…something about them seemed familiar. The lenses were oval in shape and tilted upwards at the corners, with two pink circles dotting the area above each lens. The color of the frames started off blue around the lenses, with a pink and white gradient on the arms.

It took me almost a minute to figure it out, and when I did, I couldn't help but laugh.

They look exactly like Bayonetta's eyes!

"I thought you might like them since you have a Hatenna, and Hatenna eventually become Hatterene, so…" Raihan began. "If you don't like them, I can get you another pair—"

"Never—I love these!" Holy crap, I can't wait to show Bayonetta these bad boys! "Thank you so much!"

"No problem!" Raihan rubbed the back of his head. "They're called Hatterene's if you ever want another pair—funny name, huh?"

"Pfft, yeah." I was expecting something more original, but I guess they're like cat eyes.

It was around an hour later when we finally went our separate ways. Raihan walked with me to the orphanage, where Eleanor was waiting for me, somewhat concerned over how late I stayed out. She didn't say anything though, but that's probably because I'll be leaving tomorrow, meaning that Raihan won't be seeing me for a few days, or however long it takes before I can visit him again.

"Do you need a moment?" she asked us.

"We're fine!" Raihan and I immediately blurted out, causing Martha to let out a loud shriek.

"Morgg…" Sorry, Vlad!

"Trap…" You too, Storm…

"It's okay, you two—I'm certain you'll see each other again very soon." Eleanor, you sweet, beautiful lady—I wish nothing bad ever happens to you, because you are an absolute gem. "Now come along, Brie—Mami is waiting for you."

"Bye Raihan!" I threw my arms around him in an embrace, squeezing him tightly as I tried to make the most of whatever time we had left together.

"I'm glad I met you!" Raihan tells me, his voice somewhat choked up as he squeezed me just as tightly.

That was enough to get me to start crying. And so Raihan and I officially went our separate ways, about half an hour later after Eleanor did her best to cheer us up. I'm sure, in the near future, we'll both look back on this moment and laugh about it. For now, it was just something that made us both emotional, being as young as we are.

…

…

It's early in the morning when Opal arrives at the orphanage to collect Brie and the others. She is as patient as ever as she waits for Brie to get gather her belongings. That's when Brie chooses to show off the new sunglasses she received from her friend. And so Opal laughs, not at all surprised to see Brie owning a pair of Hatterene's.

"I suspected that's what you would end up with on your own." Opal had considered getting Brie a pair, but it seems that she no longer has to—not when Raihan beat her to the punch. "Raihan certainly has an eye for these things, though I suppose that's what makes him quite the photographer."

"Can he come and visit us?" Brie immediately asks her.

"Of course." Opal reaches down to ruffle her hair. "Just make sure to plan ahead this time."

"I will!" Brie chirps.

"Now let's get going—Tom is waiting for us." It's been a while since Brie had last seen Tom, so it'd be nice for the two to talk again.

"Okay!" Brie lifts Martha off the floor, earning a semi-loud shriek from her. "I know—I'm sorry, but you'll have to put up with it if you don't wanna go into your Poké Ball."

"Nahhaa…" Martha only squirms in Brie's arms.

"Maybe it would be a better idea to return Martha to her Poké Ball." It's for her sake, as well as everyone else's, because Opal can tell that this ride is going to be just as rough as the first time. The last thing any of them needs is a distressed Hatenna causing trouble with her psychic abilities.

"Morg…" Vlad stays by Mami's side, cradling the egg case in his arms.

"Dee." Mami pats Vlad on the head, reassuring him as he watches Martha disappear into the Luxury Ball that Brie taps against her head.

"She'll be let out as soon as we arrive to our destination." Which shouldn't take them too long, considering the distance between Ballonlea and Hammerlocke. "Come along now! The faster we leave, the sooner we'll arrive."

It takes them less than an hour to arrive at Ballonlea. As soon Tom opens the door, Brie rushes out of the carriage. She makes her way towards the Glimwood Tangle, Mami and Vlad following right after her.

"Should we stop her?" Tom asks Opal.

Opal only smiles as she shakes her head. "Let's not. It wouldn't be right to interrupt a family reunion."

"Right!" Tom laughs. "So how does it feel to finally be a grandmother?"

"It feels…nice." For the most part, Opal feels content…because it's finally over. She and Brie can finally just enjoy the rest of their days without any interruptions from any reporters and the like. "Would you mind if I ask you to unload for us?"

"Not a problem!" Tom grins. "You can go after her if you want—I can tell you're eager to leave."

"Am I that obvious?" Opal tugs down on her hat.

"Hmm…it's more that I can understand, being a parent myself," Tom explains. "It's that familial connection that just tugs at you."

"I see." Opal laughs. "Well, I'll be on my way."

…

…

I ran deeper and deeper into the forest, kicking off my boots as I did. I just wanted to feel the ground beneath my bare feet once more, that familiar sensation that reminded me that I was home again. The forest was as vibrant as I last remembered it being, with many of the Pokémon greeting me upon realizing who I was after being away for almost two months.

"Hi Acacia!" I laughed out loud when I caught sight of Acacia, who immediately followed after me, chirping out a few notes that called out to her brother.

It took some time, but soon Clover came out of his resting spot. He took off into the air, flying right towards me before landing right on top of my head.

"Spriiii!" I missed you too! It's been a while!

"Whimsiii!" Honey!

Honey latched onto my back, refusing to let go of me as I ran further into the forest. I jumped over a couple of Eevee, their Sylveon mother soon letting out a cry that called out for me. She seemed just as happy as everyone else to see me again.

It feels nice to be back, in such a familiar place that feels so much like home… But it's not home—not yet. There are still others that I need to see. I just…need to find them.

Further and further in, the lighting grows dimmer. Soon, only the glow of the mushrooms can be seen, providing a familiar path that can only be taken by those who know the way. It didn't take me long after that to find who it was that I was searching for.

"Grimmm!" Dante is the first of my family to greet me, rushing over to me as he lifted me off the ground in strong, yet gentle embrace. He spun me around a few times, the Impidimp soon surrounding us as they chittered amongst each other.

"Reeeemmmm!" Vibe Check jumps out of the bushes, about ready to beat the crap out of me for showing such strong emotions, only to stop upon noticing that it was just me and not anyone else. She stared at me for a good minute, tears soon falling from her face as she cried loudly.

Her cries attracted the attention of the rest of her sisters, who all reacted quite differently the instant that they saw me. And just like that, they too gathered around Dante and I. Clover hopped off my head, landing right on top of Dante's as he flapped his wings a few times, scattering a few feathers into the air for the Impidimp to collect.

"Dee." Mami arrived not long after, standing still as a group of Impidimp and Hatenna surrounded her. "Deedee?"

She was so confused, not knowing what to make of them. It started with one Hatenna, followed by another, until everyone was just welcoming her back. She stayed still, her body beginning to shake uncontrollably. Soon, she started crying, the tears just coming no matter how many times she wiped them away.

Vlad showed up shortly after, earning a loud scolding from Dante as he called his oldest child over. Never one to disobey his own father, Vlad did as he was told, likely expecting the worst…but Dante wasn't like that. That's not the type of parent he was.

Instead, Dante lifted Vlad off the ground, pulling him into the hug with me. He held us closely, nuzzling us affectionately. He paused momentarily when he caught sight of the egg case that Vlad had in his arms.

"Grimmm?" Dante's eyes widened.

"Morgremmm…" Vlad averted his gaze, his tone uncomfortably soft.

So that's why he was so attached to it…

It's just like me…

"Snaaa!" Dante proceeded to nuzzle us again, if only to cheer us up.

Helping Dante out, was Boop, who came seemingly out of nowhere as they appeared right on his shoulder. They smiled at me and Vlad, soon throwing a flower crown on my head.

"Tuuuuuump!" Boop cried out, clapping their hands right after. "Phannnnnn!"

Almost everyone was here, now…everyone except her.

"Haaaa." And there she was—looking as annoyed as ever with the racket she had to endure. Bayonetta made her way over to us, looking just as surprised as everyone else to see me and Vlad. "Reeeennn?"

For first time in such a long while, I saw a different side to Bayonetta. She looked around, calling out to Martha, as she had been absent from this reunion of ours. I reached into my pocket and pulled out Martha's Poké Ball, wanting to fix this as soon as possible. I released her from the confines of the Luxury Ball, aiming it right next to where Bayonetta was standing.

"Haaaaa!" Martha let out a loud shriek, soon recoiling violently when she found herself standing so close to her mother.

Bayonetta looked down at her daughter, her eyes narrowing into slits as she gave Martha a light scolding. Martha cowered to the ground, not knowing how to feel about it at first, before quickly changing her tune as she looked up.

"Nahat!" Martha shrieked loudly, standing her ground as she stared at her mother. Even with the mistakes she made, Martha regretted nothing. If given the chance, she'd do it all again…because that's how much I mattered to her.

Bayonetta's expression stayed the same, her gaze still focused on Martha who remained strong, despite how much her body was shaking. After a few moments, Bayonetta's hand reached down to lift Martha off the ground. She brought Martha close to her face, a smile soon forming on her lips as she pressed her forehead against her daughter's. She was mad, yes…but she was also relieved.

"I'm sorry I caught her without your permission…" I found myself apologizing to Bayonetta when she turned her attention to me.

Bayonetta's eyes narrowed into slits again as she set Martha on the ground. Slowly, she made her way over to me and the others, her face getting right in front of mine.

"H-Hello…" I could feel a lump forming in the back of my throat. "I missed you too."

"Haaa…" Bayonetta's tone was a lot softer now, though her expression remained unchanged.

"Look what I'm wearing!" I tapped at the sunglasses on my face. "They look like your eyes!"

"Teeereeee?" Bayonetta's expression shifted into one of confusion as her hand reached out to tap on my sunglasses.

"Just like you!" The tears slid down my cheeks as I removed the sunglasses off my face, letting Bayonetta get a good look at my face. "Just like…you…"

"Hhhhhhh…" Bit by bit, Bayonetta's eyes began to glisten with unshed tears. "Hhhhaaaaa…"

Her body trembled, the tears soon splashing down her face as she started bawling loudly. Without any care for her appearance, she latched onto me with her tiny body, her face rubbing against mine as she sobbed loudly. Dante did his best to move the strands of hair that had gotten stuck to her face, giving her head a few affectionate pats as she continued to cry.

"Haaaaaaahaaaaaaa!" She was as loud as can be, in ways that caught everyone else by surprise.

No one said anything—not even Martha, who was too busy trying to cheer up her older sister, Vibe Check. Everyone was just so happy be together again.

From a tree branch, Acacia let her sweet scent fill the air, letting it soothe us as we all let our emotions run wild. Because this is what we did as a family, apparently.

It's funny, but…I'm okay with this.

This is fine.

This is definitely fine.

Because I love my family.

And they love me.

…

…

…

A/N Holy crap, we're at the end of arc one now, since we're back home again! And holy fucking hell, over 13K+ WORDS WRITTEN! AHHHHHH!

I'm really fucking proud of this chapter, especially considering the things that have happened these past few weeks. Anyone following my tumblr should know that one of my dogs died last week, and it really hit me hard because of how sudden it happened. And the timing around that really sucked, because I just got off work on the 31st of January. So here I am, having a somewhat optimistic view of my future career options, now that I have experience as a lab technician…only for one of my dogs to…yeah…

Anyways, I'm doing a lot better now, thanks to my friends, and especially my lovely girlfriend, Lyrecho (I LOVE YOU SO MUCH). I'm working at my brother's shop again, with his work ex-wife and while not the ideal workplace (retail sucks ass), it DOES have Wi-Fi and the shop recently moved locations, so the place is a lot bigger now, making a lot easier to move around.

MOVING ON, I HOPE YOU GUYS ENJOYED THIS MASSIVE CHAPTER, because a lot fucking happened, okay? First off, many thanks to Neon Navi for being the gave us the Hatterene's—the sunglasses that resembles a Hatterene's eyes. It ended up playing a huge role in the final moments of this chapter, so yeah!

Also, Brie also caught her first Pokémon and it was the baby Hatenna that always screams at her! Say hello to Martha, cuz she's already proved that she's here to stay! Alongside Martha, Vlad found a random Pokémon egg! And for those confused about the like "Just like me", Brie was referring to how the egg had been abandoned like her…because that's what happened.

Speaking of eggs, hope you like my worldbuilding because I'm sticking to it! And if you wanna know why it works the way it does? Well, too bad—because that's the actual mystery going on in my worldbuilding, because the games are like "we don't see these Pokémon laying eggs" and whatnot. And like, we've since ditched most game mechanics, so just go along with it, yeah?

By the by, I didn't ignore the fact that Trapinch weighs like thirty-three pounds, because here in the Pokémon world, the minimum most people can lift is a lot higher than most. A child lifting a Trapinch? Absolutely normal, and definitely expected if that Pokémon belongs to them…which is why you can expect Raihan to only get stronger from here on out! By the by, he'll be back—it's just that Brie finally got home.

Anyways, let's get these shout-outs out of the way, because as usual, I got two fucking massive reviews, so these two particular readers deserve more than just an honorable mention!

Reviewer #60: Blaze2121

Reviewer #66: ASleepySloth

Reviewer #67: OPFan37

Reviewer #69: RoseRavenWillow RandomFangirl

Reviewer #70: VileG

Reviewer #74: Heitor

Honorable mentions: Aster's Descendants (only time will tell, so we'll see!), kirara . noa1, Lightsbane1905, guisniperman, Maia the Writer, Vangran

Thank you guys so much for taking the time to review! It really does help keep me motivated, because I always crave that validation and certainly did help me through a rather rough week, so…just keep it up, yeah?

So until next time, everyone! KD out! XD