The sun was starting to rise, as another day started in the rather small New Bark Town. Slowly, the few clouds that were still there started to take the bright golden tone that the sun possessed, while the various beams of sunlight made their way along the streets, trying to penetrate into the various houses and bring their light upon their inhabitants.
Today, unusually, a window had its curtains open, allowing the light full passage, and allowing it to illuminate the entire room. At a casual glance, this would probably annoy the occupantsà yet, the person who was sleeping until now did not have such concerns.
ôUnghà brightàö he grunted, rubbing his eyelids to try and push away the sleep from them. ôItÆs been so longàö
Taking a deep breath, he managed to pull the covers off his body, trying to sit up. His awkward position made it clear that he did not enjoy it much, yet he did not mind it as much as one would think he should; instead, he simply stretched his arms, trying to open his eyes properly.
ôAnother day startsà another year in my life, IÆll bet,ö he thought out loud, opening his brown eyes. As usual, his room was in his personal style; the computer on top of a table with a chair just in front of it to allow him a seating, an old, broken videogame lying on a table just to the side, connected to a television set that had belonged to his grandmother (or at least ought to, given how old the thing was), and a large framed picture of the regionÆs map, sewed by his mother years ago. A small cane was lying by the side of his bed, a few books were set on top of the tables, in a perfect set, the wardrobe was shut and the door to his room remained closed.
ôAll in orderà I guess she came by while I was asleep and decided to clean up for today,ö the black-haired boy said, thoughtful, before sliding himself to the side of the bed. Even though he was clad in long, blue pajamas, an indicator of the cold times that the season was going through, one of the outfits looked rather awkward in comparison. Looking down, it was rather obvious that it was too long. ôàand she even decided to dress me up while I was asleep, tooà that womanàö
Getting up was a bit of a chore, but he managed to do it using the back of the bed as a support, and then keeping his hands along the wall. Even though it was hurting to do it this way, he managed to reach the wardrobe and opened it, searching around for the outfit he was going to put on.
It wasnÆt that hard to find, considering; she had even put a note on top of them, with the words æI recommend this outfitÆ well-written on them. Smiling a bit, he picked those up, including his favorite cap, and started to go back to the bed again, a rather hard process since it was on the other side of the room. Still, eventually he managed to do so, putting them all down on the bed.
ôI wonder if I should take a shower firstà on one hand, I already did yesterday and itÆs going to be a really hard chore, but on the other hand, these are new clothes and today is rather specialàö he argued with himself, as he sat down by their side. It took him a few deep breaths, but eventually he felt relaxed enough to decide properly.
ôWell, she wants me to be cleanà I guess I shouldnÆt disappoint her too much,ö he stated, calmly, before taking the nearby cane and using it to support himself. ôSoà letÆs go, thenàö he grunted, surprisingly, before slowly walking towards the door, opening it, and leaving the room.
à
On the ground floor of the house, a young woman was busy working on the kitchen, although some of her attention was far from the meal she was preparing with all caution. In fact, several times, she had had to stop what she was doing, in order to bring her attention back to it; otherwise, she would have made a serious mistake and ruined it, and it was only due to her years of experience that she knew when she was going too far.
Still, she felt she couldnÆt be blamed; after all, the picture that she had put on the wall kept reminding her of the old days, before she was left aloneà or nearly so, at least. At least her son never left herà even if she had once wanted so, two years ago, now all she truly wanted was for him to stay with her, and not leave any soon.
Taking another look at the picture, she stopped her sight on the black-haired man that stood the tallest. She missed him dearly, even if her son was already taking on some of his featuresà but he lacked the age and, even so, she ought to stay preparing the meal for them. Today was a great dayà she couldnÆt ruin it with her thoughts.
Even as she went on with the preparations, the radio was already turned on, playing a rather old song. She didnÆt exactly care what song it was, anymore; they all tended to be about the same thing, so she had a tendency to mix them and well, she wasnÆt exactly paying attention to it anymore. However, a special report soon cut in, and she paused, noticing the odd sound played at the start. æThe last timeà it wasàÆ she thought, before looking at it.
ôAttention, people from Johto! This is your friendly news reporter Gabby, and weÆre here at the Indigo Plateau to bring to you all about the new, horrifying situation that has gripped the nation in a cold and fearful hand!ö the voice said, very feminine and in control; it seemed very much like someone who didnÆt care what she had to do to get ratings. ôRight now, thereÆs a commotion going on at the entrance of the building, where various protestors contest the choice for the new Gym Leader of Olivine City, Stella Akre. Several of them even seem to think that this new Gym Leader has earned her role unfairly, and demand a deeper investigation of this situation! While it is unknown how well this young girl will manage to do in her position, the outcry behind this may be enough to cut her first chance before it can even possibly bloom! While this goes on-ö
She turned off the radio, watching it with some wonder. æThat cityà itÆs one of the most beautiful landmarks of our region. For something as horrible as that to have happenedàÆ she thought, silent. æAnd he still has no knowledge of that, eitherà I canÆt bring the topic today, itÆs too sad a thing to discuss, and especially since today isàÆ
Letting her thoughts trail off, she went back to the kitchen, returning to the meal. She didnÆt needà shouldnÆt needà to bother herself with something like that. It wasnÆt appropriate, and besidesà this was a celebration, not a funeralà
à
The sound of approaching footsteps, slow yet decided, came to her ears. She pretended she had not heard them, waiting for him to come closer, and soon found herself hugged from behind. ôHey, thereà had a nice night of sleep?ö she asked, and he nodded.
ôYeah, momà it was nice, sleeping without my back killing me for once,ö he replied, joking. Her smile faltered a bit, but even as she tensed, he pulled her closer to him. ôRelaxà IÆm not going to die, mom. ItÆs only a scar, now.ö
ôYesàö she agreed, uneasy. The touchà it felt so familiar and comfortable, and yetà she refused to accept it. It had been so hard, in the past years, to do soà but she still had to maintain her own purity. If not for herself, then at least for himà he didnÆt need to suffer like she did, and she knew that he had no feelings for her like the ones she fought.
It never made the struggle any easier, stillà but she pressed on, regardless. She kept on restraining her feelings from growing, since her husband was still aliveà and he would come back one day. This, she always would know.
ôSoà is everything ready, mom?ö he asked, and she nodded again, being released shortly after. To her own surprise, she was blushingà and she refused to, taking a few deep breaths.
ôY-yes, dearà go sit at the table, I can handle everything hereàö she replied, evasive, something that made him curious. However, rather than prod further, he nodded instead.
ôOkay, momà IÆll be waiting,ö he told her, before turning away, using the cane as his support to walk away. Even as he did, however, she looked at him again, watching his slow and cautious movements. The black shirt he wore, with long sleeves, was a bit shorter than she thoughtà and the pair of gray pants that completed the set was maybe too large; even his feet were hidden from sightà but she didnÆt care. It helped protect his wound, and he felt better if he didnÆt have to worry about it growing maybe too wet or too covered with dust. So did she, and so did she prefer doing things the way he wanted.
It was some measure of peace, in the chaos that was their life.
After a few more minutes, she came out of the kitchen, bringing various dishes in a tray; nothing too hard to make, but quite complicated for a mere breakfast. Pudding, sandwiches, cake, a bowl of cereal filled to the brim, a cup that was filled as well with chocolate milk, and several more thingsà the tray looked like it was stuffed, given how much she managed to fit in it.
ôHere it is, dearà I hope you enjoy it,ö she told him, and he turned his eyes away from the meal.
ôThanks, momàö he whispered, before she took her place on the other side of the table, where her own meal was prepared; it wasnÆt as fancy as his, being basically the same thing she had every day, but she felt it was enough.
ôSoà do you want to say grace?ö she asked, and he nodded, after a moment of thought. The two of them clapped their hands in front of their faces, keeping them still as a sign of respect.
ôWe thank those who were responsible for our existence, and those who provide us with the things we enjoy in our lives,ö he said, his voice trembling a bit. ôMany thanks for the meal weÆre about to have.ö
ôMany thanks for the meal weÆre about to have,ö she repeated, before releasing her hands from the position they were in, followed by him soon after. ôSoà what do you plan on doing for today, Jamie?ö she asked, as he began to drink from his cup.
ôI donÆt knowà I was planning on watching some TV, and then IÆd do something with Marina later on the afternoon. We could watch the stars together at night, too,ö he replied, after gulping down the milk.
ôThatÆs niceà itÆs been a while since weÆve done that, hasnÆt it?ö she asked, and he nodded.
ôYeahà sorry for not doing that as much recently, but I couldnÆt exactly climb the stairs to the attic until last week,ö he told her, a bit embarrassed. She smiled in response, drinking some of her coffee. ôWhat about you?ö
ôOhà itÆs a surprise, dear. But donÆt worryà itÆs something youÆll enjoy very much,ö she replied, still smiling in the same way, and he had to fight a blush as he looked at her, turning his own gaze back to his food.
The rest of the meal went by slowly, the two of them speaking about their own business and how things were in the town, until at last Jamie put down his last plate, sighing contentedly. ôAhà that was a great breakfast, momàö he moaned, as he stretched his limbs. ôI canÆt wait until next year before you do something this good again.ö
She giggled. ôThat was nothing, dearà IÆll be happy in doing this for you again,ö she told him, before standing up. ôNow, IÆll be off to buy some things for the surprise, and it shouldnÆt take me that longà have fun while IÆm gone, will you?ö she asked, receiving laughter in response.
ôSure thing, mom! DonÆt worry any, IÆll be sure to have fun! You take care, okay?ö he replied, as she took the dishes away. Picking up his cane, he got off the chair he was sitting in and slowly walked towards a separate room of the house, where the main television set was. ôNow, letÆs see whatÆs onàö
As he turned it on, it was showing an old cartoon about a bunch of girls fighting criminals. ôBoringàö he muttered, switching to the next channel, which was showing a group of kids playing card games. ôBoringàö Another flicker, and now a mutated blob showed kids around a house. ôBoringàö
While he continued to switch channels, he heard the sound of the front door opening and closing, knowing that this indicated his mother was no longer in the house. Even so, he paid it little attention; she obviously had to leave to buy food, after all.
Just as he was about to switch away from a music video channel, however, a rather peculiar theme started playing, and the symbol of the national news network displayed itself on the screen, as the words æURGENT NEWSÆ followed behind it, situating themselves on the screen.
ôHuhà itÆs been a while since IÆve watched the news,ö Jamie blinked, as he seated himself better on the couch. ôI wonder whatÆs so urgentàö
On the screen, a brown-haired woman holding a microphone came to view, and the information below read æGABBY û ACTION REPORTERÆ. The location was obviously the Indigo Plateau, given the shining buildings around and the flame holster on the center of the screen.
ôHello, everyone! ItÆs your friendly news reporter, Gabby, with the latest news of the Indigo Plateau situation! We are finally receiving information about the decision made by the Chairman of the PokÚmon League regarding the replacement for the Gym Leader of Olivine City!ö the woman said, in an excited voice, and he paused, unsure of what to think of it.
æOlivineà IÆve heard of that place. ItÆs that port city that faces the ocean, with a tall lighthouse that always stays litàÆ he thought, before focusing on the screen again. æWhy would they need a replacement Gym Leader?Æ
ôDue to the accident that happened only a couple of days ago, which resulted in the destruction of the Olivine Lighthouse and the apparent death of the Gym Leader, Jasmine Enzo, the League has had trouble filling the position, as none of the candidates has shown enough of a decent line-up for the PokÚmon type used by the late nineteen-year old trainer.ö
æWHAT?! The lighthouse was destroyed and the Gym Leader died?Æ His eyes were wide, as the news sunk in. æOnly a few days agoà how long has that been going on, then?Æ
ôThat was only until very recently, however. The daughter of the previous Gym Leader, Stella Akre, has asked for the position, something that caused an outrage among the community, given how several of them believe that the position was granted not due to valor or might, but by family ties to said Gym Leader, who has been gone from our community for years now.ö
æHnà this is weird. A whole commotion due to a switch? I donÆt get it. Other Gym Leaders get replacements, and yet nobody throws this much of a tantrumà I donÆt like this at all.Æ In his thoughts, Jamie missed some of the next part of the narrationà but then, as the camera focused on the main pedestal, he paused and stared, eyes wide. æWhat the-Æ
ô-as the Champion of Kanto, Jonathan Daizan, is about to speak to the masses about the decision taken by the League.ö The woman stopped speaking then, and a quick zoom-in revealed more of the people who were standing thereà but Jamie only focused on the person in the center of the screen.
He was taller, maybe a bit more masculine, and dressed up in a business suità but there was no mistaking it; the crimson hair was still on the same length and tone, the face displayed a barely restrained hatred that was hidden behind a mask, and the feminine traits were also there, stillà it was him, no two ways about it.
ôNoàö he whispered, sitting forward, trying to look closer to the television set, unable to believe it. ôThat guyà heÆs actually made Champion, of all things? Are they crazy?! DonÆt they know who he is, or what heÆs done?ö Despite his fears, the screen didnÆt lie; Jonathan, thatà that damned bastard wasnÆt just alive and healthy, he was on top of the world.
ôI admit that itÆs a pity that such a young life has been lost, but this is hardly an event that we can afford to stop our lives for. I had been courting her for the past few months, and I did not expect such a deathà or even the fact that someone would be so cruel as to destroy the building she loved the most,ö said crimson-haired boy said, in the screen. ôEven so, I can confirm that the capacity of miss Akre in battle is superior than her predecessor, or even her own mother. I believe she can be a great Gym Leader, and so does the rest of the League; this is why we give her our support.ö
ôI canÆt believe thisà they canÆt have been this stupid. ItÆs justà itÆs just not possible. That guyÆs done such thingsàö he rambled, unsure of what to say. Eventually, he had enough of what he was seeing and turned it off, reclining back on the couch.
æSo, heÆs Champion nowà and it doesnÆt seem like anyone bothered to check on his past. Vortex, just for what he did to me, IÆm fairly sure heÆd be arrested! I donÆt have the singlest idea of why heÆs thereàÆ he thought, his eyes becoming colder, æbut I will find out, definitely.Æ
As he got up, with some trouble, he started his way back to the staircase and the upper floor, thinking back about the events of that damned fateful day.
ôStop, please! YouÆve gone too far already!ö
ôGet out of my way!ö
ôWhy are you still attacking him?! HeÆs fainted already!ö
ôHeÆs a threatà the two of you are! I hate you!ö
ôWhyà why are you doing this?ö
ôBecause I want to! Nowà SIC æEM!!!ö
The noise of claws and teeth, tearing and shreddingà and among two screams of pain, laughterà cold, deadly laughter.
ôàleave them. TheyÆre probably dead alreadyàö
ôAgh!ö Jamie cried out, as his left leg gave in and he nearly fell down the stairs, barely managing to hold himself on the support. ôDamnà not againàö
Grunting, the boy forced himself up, before trying to climb the rest of the way up. ôEver since thenàö he muttered, knowing the answer to that. ôWhen is it ever going to healàö
Eventually, he reached his room, and he opened the wardrobe doors. Picking up his backpack, he started to take all sorts of clothes, filling it with whatever looked good enough for travel. Once done, he twisted his own cap backwards, unlike what he was wearing before, and zipped the pack closed again.
Slinging it on his back, he wrote down a note as fast as he could, unwilling to wait even one more moment if he could avoid it. Putting the note on top of the table, he sighed in sadness and began making his way to the kitchen, as heÆd need some supplies.
æAnd to think of what today isàÆ he thought, melancholic, while opening shelves and picking up food. æI didnÆt expect it, but if I donÆt leave now, then I donÆt know when IÆm leavingà and I have to. I have to find him againà and I have to see that city.Æ Pausing in front of the picture that was on the wall, he had to fight back tears. ôSorry, momà but I guess the celebrations are going to have to wait.ö
With that, he headed to the back entrance, not much far from there. He knew where to go, firstà but it was somewhere he never thought heÆd have to go ever again.
à
ôThank you, mister!ö
As she entered the store, she saw a familiar girl, leaving one of the cashiers. Even though she no longer wore her once typical outfit, now a tight pink shirt and a pair of blue and black shorts that seemed maybe too tight for her body, the large cap that covered her head was still the same one she had gained, ten years ago, and so was her long, blue hair, shaped like a pair of pincers.
ôHey there, Marina! How have you been?ö she greeted the young girl, who blinked and stopped. Then, her eyes widened in recognition.
ôMiss Seliro! ItÆs so nice to see you!ö she replied cheerfully, running towards her. ôItÆs been a while since you came out of that house!ö
ôYeah, wellàö she paused, a bit uncomfortable, ôtaking care of Jamie has been more difficult, since the accident. IÆm lucky if I can leave him alone and he doesnÆt suffer a nervous failure, nowadaysàö MarinaÆs smile died, and she looked down.
ôàhow is he?ö she asked, nervous. The older woman looked back to her house, longingly.
ôHeÆs fineà it seems his leg has mostly healed, though the doctors told us it would never heal fully. He has spent most of his time resting and studyingà and walking.ö That last word was said with some pride in it. ôHeÆs managed to go far, as of nowà he can probably go from his room to the front door in one go by now, though he still needs the cane to walk. ItÆsà a hope, but itÆs still there.ö
ôI seeàö Marina replied, smiling again. ôDonÆt worry, miss Seliroà IÆm sure that heÆs going to walk again for real one day! He wonÆt need the cane for much longer!ö
She smiled, as well. ôThank youà itÆs nice to hear some encouragement words. Have you managed to complete any of your theories yet?ö
To that, the blue-haired girl shook her head. ôNoà I still need some field experience, but Professor Elm wonÆt let me go on my quest yet. He says IÆm still valuable around the labàö she replied, before a fire started in her eyes. ôBut I swear that IÆll manage to do it, one day! IÆll be the best assistant Professor Elm has ever had, and then IÆll be the best professor of the world! Just you wait, miss Seliroà I am going to succeed, definitely!ö
ôIÆm sure you will,ö the purple-haired woman replied, her smile becoming a bit wider. ôAnd when you do, remember that Jamie and I will always be supporting you, no matter what!ö
ôWill do! But for nowàö Marina trailed off, looking at their surroundings again. ôWhat are you going to make for him?ö she asked, whispering this time. The woman came closer to her, and put one hand to the side of her mouth.
ôItÆs a secretà but please come by later tonight, okay? It wouldnÆt be the same without you,ö she replied, and Marina extended one arm upwards, closing her eyes.
ôOkay! IÆll see you later, miss Seliro!ö she finished, before running off the building, shopping in tow.
ôSay hello to Michael for me!ö the older woman added, before turning away and closing her eyes, taking a deep breath. ôThat girlà I wonder if she has any idea,ö she told herself, before opening her own eyes. Just as with Marina before, her own were full of a fiery passion. ôBut enough of thatà itÆs time to go shopping!ö
As she grabbed a bag and zoomed into the store, one could say she was speeding through, picking up many things sheÆd need for the next meals.
à
The doors to Professor ElmÆs laboratory were pushed wide open, something unusual these days. While the professor himself was too busy working on his papers to notice the intruder, his assistant took a step back, in surprise, and his jaw was hanging; even though he tried to say something, he was too stunned to do so.
However, the sound of a metallic item hitting the floor repeatedly, in a slow pacing, was enough to indicate to him just who it was, and Elm stopped his own research, face grim. ôI hadnÆt expected you here,ö he greeted, standing up and turning away. ôNot in a long timeà what can I do for you, Jamie?ö
On the other side of the room, the aforementioned capped boy was slowly walking ahead, using the cane as his main support with his left hand. A noticeable limp was visible on that leg, and he was struggling to stay up.
ôI know it has been a whileà and that itÆs something I wouldnÆt ask of you normally, professor, butàö he grunted, forcing himself to stand on both feet. ôI need your help.ö
ôMy help?ö Elm asked, amused. ôI admit that IÆm surprised, and you tell me thisà considering what happened to you, I would think my help is the last thing youÆd ever want.ö
ôItÆs related to the same thing from two years ago,ö Jamie told him, and Elm frowned. This surprised the boy; he had never seen the man frown like that.
ôGo on.ö
After a deep breath, the boy started to speak. ôJonathan Daizanà HeÆs the one who broke into your lab, two years ago, snatched a PokÚmon, and then ran away, towards Violet Cityà and who I was forced to battle, not even knowing who he was.ö
ôYesà heÆs the one responsible for your state, and for so much suffering in our small townàö the young professor reminisced, but he focused again. ôBut why are you telling me this now?ö
ôI just found outà Jonathan is the Champion of Kanto!ö Jamie cried out, before pressing a hand against his ribs. æDamnà I need to finish this before itÆs too lateàÆ ôAnd he was somehow related to the Olivine City Gym Leaderà I simply canÆt stay here anymore! I need to go after him again!ö
Surprise overcame Elm, and he found himself unable to speakà that is, until Jamie was done. ôI seeà youÆre going to try and expose him?ö he asked, and Jamie shook his head.
ôIà donÆt know what IÆll do,ö he honestly admitted. ôHoweverà if IÆm going to do anything at all, I canÆt stay here any longer.ö
ôI seeà and I see how it gets back to me,ö Elm replied, amused. ôTwo years ago, I gave you a PokÚmon, to aid you in your short trip to TajiriÆs houseà I suppose you want another one?ö
Jamie nodded. ôYeahà I know I never wanted one, back then, butàö he paused, thinking back on the events of those years. ôBut nowà I guess I donÆt have a choice. I canÆt defend myself half as well as I could thenà I wonÆt survive out there without a PokÚmon.ö
ôVery wellà I suppose I could help you. Howeverà you know what today is, Jamie. Do you honestly want to leave now, with as low preparation as possible, only to go on a hunt for someone with much more resources than you doà especially on your birthday?ö Elm asked, and the boy paused.
ôàyesà I know my mother will be disappointed, and so will everyone elseà but if I donÆt leave, then itÆll be worse,ö he said, looking down. Then, he turned his gaze towards the older man. ôWill you help me or not?!ö
ôFineàö Elm sighed, before turning away. ôI should have known youÆre too hardheadedà just like your father, when it comes to these things,ö he commented, before walking towards a nearby table. As Jamie waited, the professor put his hand inside a box and took something out of it.
ôIÆm sorry I canÆt do any better this timeà but this is the only PokÚmon we have left. The last batch of trainers came and goneà and had it been any other day, you probably would have been lucky and been able to choose,ö he said, his voice a tadà sad, maybe?
Even so, Jamie shook his head. ôDonÆt worry, Professorà I donÆt care about that. Just so long as he or she can help meàö he replied, walking towards the older man and taking the device from him. As he attached it to the side of his outfit, Elm looked directly at his eyes.
ôYou know I canÆt protect you for too long, right?ö he asked, frowning. ôEveryoneÆs bound to know you came here, by the time your mother comes to askà I canÆt lie to her, you know.ö
Jamie nodded. ôYou should just tell her the truthà that I needed to get a PokÚmon from you and that I got one,ö he said, simply. Elm sighed.
ôI guess this is it, thenà good luck, Jamie.ö As the boy turned away and started to leave, he looked back. ôAnd for what mattersà IÆm sorry.ö
He watched as the boy received a Potion and five PokÚballs from his assistant, then turned away and went back to his computer, trying to bury himself in the paperwork.
à
The front door to the Seliro household opened quietly, as the owner of the house made her way to the kitchen. ôI am home,ö she said, hoping to alert him to her presence. The immediate lack of response wasnÆt a concern; several times already, he hadnÆt replied, just because he was too busy with something to hear her.
Humming a quiet song, she started to put down the several bags she had brought back, thinking on the lunch she was going to be preparing today. All his favorite meals, for lunch and dinnerà and then, theyÆd be on the rooftop, watching the starsà
She had to bite back a squeal; it was just going to be great!
A few moments later, she entered the television room. ôSo, how have you be-ö she asked, before pausing. Jamie wasnÆt in the room, and the television was shut off. ôStrangeà where could he be?ö she wondered, before starting to search around the house.
Most of the rooms were empty as well, yet when she went into his room, she saw a small note on the table. Picking it up, she started to read.
ôDear momà noà
Dear Fia,
If youÆre reading this, then you might have noticed that I am not in the house anymoreà and well, thatÆs true. A couple of minutes after you left, I came across a news report, andà I justà couldnÆt stay anymore. I know what day this is, butà
I donÆt really have enough time to explain it, since IÆm going to leave as fast as possible, and I need to get to the nearest city before the night. I think IÆll be back in a couple of months.
Thank you for taking care of me in the past fourteen years, mom. Howeverà if I donÆt leave, I donÆt know if my treatment has been any successful. IÆm sorry for hurting you, and breaking my promiseà but thereÆs no other way.
àsorry for ruining my birthday for you.
Love,
Jamie.ö
As she finished reading the note, tears were streaming down her cheeks, and she fell to her knees. Even as she tried to fight it, she couldnÆtà it was just too painfulà
ôNoà I canÆt believe thisàö she muttered, covering her face with her hands. ôI lost himà I finally lost himàö
She didnÆt know how long she stayed there, cryingà and she didnÆt care.
All she cared aboutà was gone, now.
Today, unusually, a window had its curtains open, allowing the light full passage, and allowing it to illuminate the entire room. At a casual glance, this would probably annoy the occupantsà yet, the person who was sleeping until now did not have such concerns.
ôUnghà brightàö he grunted, rubbing his eyelids to try and push away the sleep from them. ôItÆs been so longàö
Taking a deep breath, he managed to pull the covers off his body, trying to sit up. His awkward position made it clear that he did not enjoy it much, yet he did not mind it as much as one would think he should; instead, he simply stretched his arms, trying to open his eyes properly.
ôAnother day startsà another year in my life, IÆll bet,ö he thought out loud, opening his brown eyes. As usual, his room was in his personal style; the computer on top of a table with a chair just in front of it to allow him a seating, an old, broken videogame lying on a table just to the side, connected to a television set that had belonged to his grandmother (or at least ought to, given how old the thing was), and a large framed picture of the regionÆs map, sewed by his mother years ago. A small cane was lying by the side of his bed, a few books were set on top of the tables, in a perfect set, the wardrobe was shut and the door to his room remained closed.
ôAll in orderà I guess she came by while I was asleep and decided to clean up for today,ö the black-haired boy said, thoughtful, before sliding himself to the side of the bed. Even though he was clad in long, blue pajamas, an indicator of the cold times that the season was going through, one of the outfits looked rather awkward in comparison. Looking down, it was rather obvious that it was too long. ôàand she even decided to dress me up while I was asleep, tooà that womanàö
Getting up was a bit of a chore, but he managed to do it using the back of the bed as a support, and then keeping his hands along the wall. Even though it was hurting to do it this way, he managed to reach the wardrobe and opened it, searching around for the outfit he was going to put on.
It wasnÆt that hard to find, considering; she had even put a note on top of them, with the words æI recommend this outfitÆ well-written on them. Smiling a bit, he picked those up, including his favorite cap, and started to go back to the bed again, a rather hard process since it was on the other side of the room. Still, eventually he managed to do so, putting them all down on the bed.
ôI wonder if I should take a shower firstà on one hand, I already did yesterday and itÆs going to be a really hard chore, but on the other hand, these are new clothes and today is rather specialàö he argued with himself, as he sat down by their side. It took him a few deep breaths, but eventually he felt relaxed enough to decide properly.
ôWell, she wants me to be cleanà I guess I shouldnÆt disappoint her too much,ö he stated, calmly, before taking the nearby cane and using it to support himself. ôSoà letÆs go, thenàö he grunted, surprisingly, before slowly walking towards the door, opening it, and leaving the room.
à
On the ground floor of the house, a young woman was busy working on the kitchen, although some of her attention was far from the meal she was preparing with all caution. In fact, several times, she had had to stop what she was doing, in order to bring her attention back to it; otherwise, she would have made a serious mistake and ruined it, and it was only due to her years of experience that she knew when she was going too far.
Still, she felt she couldnÆt be blamed; after all, the picture that she had put on the wall kept reminding her of the old days, before she was left aloneà or nearly so, at least. At least her son never left herà even if she had once wanted so, two years ago, now all she truly wanted was for him to stay with her, and not leave any soon.
Taking another look at the picture, she stopped her sight on the black-haired man that stood the tallest. She missed him dearly, even if her son was already taking on some of his featuresà but he lacked the age and, even so, she ought to stay preparing the meal for them. Today was a great dayà she couldnÆt ruin it with her thoughts.
Even as she went on with the preparations, the radio was already turned on, playing a rather old song. She didnÆt exactly care what song it was, anymore; they all tended to be about the same thing, so she had a tendency to mix them and well, she wasnÆt exactly paying attention to it anymore. However, a special report soon cut in, and she paused, noticing the odd sound played at the start. æThe last timeà it wasàÆ she thought, before looking at it.
ôAttention, people from Johto! This is your friendly news reporter Gabby, and weÆre here at the Indigo Plateau to bring to you all about the new, horrifying situation that has gripped the nation in a cold and fearful hand!ö the voice said, very feminine and in control; it seemed very much like someone who didnÆt care what she had to do to get ratings. ôRight now, thereÆs a commotion going on at the entrance of the building, where various protestors contest the choice for the new Gym Leader of Olivine City, Stella Akre. Several of them even seem to think that this new Gym Leader has earned her role unfairly, and demand a deeper investigation of this situation! While it is unknown how well this young girl will manage to do in her position, the outcry behind this may be enough to cut her first chance before it can even possibly bloom! While this goes on-ö
She turned off the radio, watching it with some wonder. æThat cityà itÆs one of the most beautiful landmarks of our region. For something as horrible as that to have happenedàÆ she thought, silent. æAnd he still has no knowledge of that, eitherà I canÆt bring the topic today, itÆs too sad a thing to discuss, and especially since today isàÆ
Letting her thoughts trail off, she went back to the kitchen, returning to the meal. She didnÆt needà shouldnÆt needà to bother herself with something like that. It wasnÆt appropriate, and besidesà this was a celebration, not a funeralà
à
The sound of approaching footsteps, slow yet decided, came to her ears. She pretended she had not heard them, waiting for him to come closer, and soon found herself hugged from behind. ôHey, thereà had a nice night of sleep?ö she asked, and he nodded.
ôYeah, momà it was nice, sleeping without my back killing me for once,ö he replied, joking. Her smile faltered a bit, but even as she tensed, he pulled her closer to him. ôRelaxà IÆm not going to die, mom. ItÆs only a scar, now.ö
ôYesàö she agreed, uneasy. The touchà it felt so familiar and comfortable, and yetà she refused to accept it. It had been so hard, in the past years, to do soà but she still had to maintain her own purity. If not for herself, then at least for himà he didnÆt need to suffer like she did, and she knew that he had no feelings for her like the ones she fought.
It never made the struggle any easier, stillà but she pressed on, regardless. She kept on restraining her feelings from growing, since her husband was still aliveà and he would come back one day. This, she always would know.
ôSoà is everything ready, mom?ö he asked, and she nodded again, being released shortly after. To her own surprise, she was blushingà and she refused to, taking a few deep breaths.
ôY-yes, dearà go sit at the table, I can handle everything hereàö she replied, evasive, something that made him curious. However, rather than prod further, he nodded instead.
ôOkay, momà IÆll be waiting,ö he told her, before turning away, using the cane as his support to walk away. Even as he did, however, she looked at him again, watching his slow and cautious movements. The black shirt he wore, with long sleeves, was a bit shorter than she thoughtà and the pair of gray pants that completed the set was maybe too large; even his feet were hidden from sightà but she didnÆt care. It helped protect his wound, and he felt better if he didnÆt have to worry about it growing maybe too wet or too covered with dust. So did she, and so did she prefer doing things the way he wanted.
It was some measure of peace, in the chaos that was their life.
After a few more minutes, she came out of the kitchen, bringing various dishes in a tray; nothing too hard to make, but quite complicated for a mere breakfast. Pudding, sandwiches, cake, a bowl of cereal filled to the brim, a cup that was filled as well with chocolate milk, and several more thingsà the tray looked like it was stuffed, given how much she managed to fit in it.
ôHere it is, dearà I hope you enjoy it,ö she told him, and he turned his eyes away from the meal.
ôThanks, momàö he whispered, before she took her place on the other side of the table, where her own meal was prepared; it wasnÆt as fancy as his, being basically the same thing she had every day, but she felt it was enough.
ôSoà do you want to say grace?ö she asked, and he nodded, after a moment of thought. The two of them clapped their hands in front of their faces, keeping them still as a sign of respect.
ôWe thank those who were responsible for our existence, and those who provide us with the things we enjoy in our lives,ö he said, his voice trembling a bit. ôMany thanks for the meal weÆre about to have.ö
ôMany thanks for the meal weÆre about to have,ö she repeated, before releasing her hands from the position they were in, followed by him soon after. ôSoà what do you plan on doing for today, Jamie?ö she asked, as he began to drink from his cup.
ôI donÆt knowà I was planning on watching some TV, and then IÆd do something with Marina later on the afternoon. We could watch the stars together at night, too,ö he replied, after gulping down the milk.
ôThatÆs niceà itÆs been a while since weÆve done that, hasnÆt it?ö she asked, and he nodded.
ôYeahà sorry for not doing that as much recently, but I couldnÆt exactly climb the stairs to the attic until last week,ö he told her, a bit embarrassed. She smiled in response, drinking some of her coffee. ôWhat about you?ö
ôOhà itÆs a surprise, dear. But donÆt worryà itÆs something youÆll enjoy very much,ö she replied, still smiling in the same way, and he had to fight a blush as he looked at her, turning his own gaze back to his food.
The rest of the meal went by slowly, the two of them speaking about their own business and how things were in the town, until at last Jamie put down his last plate, sighing contentedly. ôAhà that was a great breakfast, momàö he moaned, as he stretched his limbs. ôI canÆt wait until next year before you do something this good again.ö
She giggled. ôThat was nothing, dearà IÆll be happy in doing this for you again,ö she told him, before standing up. ôNow, IÆll be off to buy some things for the surprise, and it shouldnÆt take me that longà have fun while IÆm gone, will you?ö she asked, receiving laughter in response.
ôSure thing, mom! DonÆt worry any, IÆll be sure to have fun! You take care, okay?ö he replied, as she took the dishes away. Picking up his cane, he got off the chair he was sitting in and slowly walked towards a separate room of the house, where the main television set was. ôNow, letÆs see whatÆs onàö
As he turned it on, it was showing an old cartoon about a bunch of girls fighting criminals. ôBoringàö he muttered, switching to the next channel, which was showing a group of kids playing card games. ôBoringàö Another flicker, and now a mutated blob showed kids around a house. ôBoringàö
While he continued to switch channels, he heard the sound of the front door opening and closing, knowing that this indicated his mother was no longer in the house. Even so, he paid it little attention; she obviously had to leave to buy food, after all.
Just as he was about to switch away from a music video channel, however, a rather peculiar theme started playing, and the symbol of the national news network displayed itself on the screen, as the words æURGENT NEWSÆ followed behind it, situating themselves on the screen.
ôHuhà itÆs been a while since IÆve watched the news,ö Jamie blinked, as he seated himself better on the couch. ôI wonder whatÆs so urgentàö
On the screen, a brown-haired woman holding a microphone came to view, and the information below read æGABBY û ACTION REPORTERÆ. The location was obviously the Indigo Plateau, given the shining buildings around and the flame holster on the center of the screen.
ôHello, everyone! ItÆs your friendly news reporter, Gabby, with the latest news of the Indigo Plateau situation! We are finally receiving information about the decision made by the Chairman of the PokÚmon League regarding the replacement for the Gym Leader of Olivine City!ö the woman said, in an excited voice, and he paused, unsure of what to think of it.
æOlivineà IÆve heard of that place. ItÆs that port city that faces the ocean, with a tall lighthouse that always stays litàÆ he thought, before focusing on the screen again. æWhy would they need a replacement Gym Leader?Æ
ôDue to the accident that happened only a couple of days ago, which resulted in the destruction of the Olivine Lighthouse and the apparent death of the Gym Leader, Jasmine Enzo, the League has had trouble filling the position, as none of the candidates has shown enough of a decent line-up for the PokÚmon type used by the late nineteen-year old trainer.ö
æWHAT?! The lighthouse was destroyed and the Gym Leader died?Æ His eyes were wide, as the news sunk in. æOnly a few days agoà how long has that been going on, then?Æ
ôThat was only until very recently, however. The daughter of the previous Gym Leader, Stella Akre, has asked for the position, something that caused an outrage among the community, given how several of them believe that the position was granted not due to valor or might, but by family ties to said Gym Leader, who has been gone from our community for years now.ö
æHnà this is weird. A whole commotion due to a switch? I donÆt get it. Other Gym Leaders get replacements, and yet nobody throws this much of a tantrumà I donÆt like this at all.Æ In his thoughts, Jamie missed some of the next part of the narrationà but then, as the camera focused on the main pedestal, he paused and stared, eyes wide. æWhat the-Æ
ô-as the Champion of Kanto, Jonathan Daizan, is about to speak to the masses about the decision taken by the League.ö The woman stopped speaking then, and a quick zoom-in revealed more of the people who were standing thereà but Jamie only focused on the person in the center of the screen.
He was taller, maybe a bit more masculine, and dressed up in a business suità but there was no mistaking it; the crimson hair was still on the same length and tone, the face displayed a barely restrained hatred that was hidden behind a mask, and the feminine traits were also there, stillà it was him, no two ways about it.
ôNoàö he whispered, sitting forward, trying to look closer to the television set, unable to believe it. ôThat guyà heÆs actually made Champion, of all things? Are they crazy?! DonÆt they know who he is, or what heÆs done?ö Despite his fears, the screen didnÆt lie; Jonathan, thatà that damned bastard wasnÆt just alive and healthy, he was on top of the world.
ôI admit that itÆs a pity that such a young life has been lost, but this is hardly an event that we can afford to stop our lives for. I had been courting her for the past few months, and I did not expect such a deathà or even the fact that someone would be so cruel as to destroy the building she loved the most,ö said crimson-haired boy said, in the screen. ôEven so, I can confirm that the capacity of miss Akre in battle is superior than her predecessor, or even her own mother. I believe she can be a great Gym Leader, and so does the rest of the League; this is why we give her our support.ö
ôI canÆt believe thisà they canÆt have been this stupid. ItÆs justà itÆs just not possible. That guyÆs done such thingsàö he rambled, unsure of what to say. Eventually, he had enough of what he was seeing and turned it off, reclining back on the couch.
æSo, heÆs Champion nowà and it doesnÆt seem like anyone bothered to check on his past. Vortex, just for what he did to me, IÆm fairly sure heÆd be arrested! I donÆt have the singlest idea of why heÆs thereàÆ he thought, his eyes becoming colder, æbut I will find out, definitely.Æ
As he got up, with some trouble, he started his way back to the staircase and the upper floor, thinking back about the events of that damned fateful day.
ôStop, please! YouÆve gone too far already!ö
ôGet out of my way!ö
ôWhy are you still attacking him?! HeÆs fainted already!ö
ôHeÆs a threatà the two of you are! I hate you!ö
ôWhyà why are you doing this?ö
ôBecause I want to! Nowà SIC æEM!!!ö
The noise of claws and teeth, tearing and shreddingà and among two screams of pain, laughterà cold, deadly laughter.
ôàleave them. TheyÆre probably dead alreadyàö
ôAgh!ö Jamie cried out, as his left leg gave in and he nearly fell down the stairs, barely managing to hold himself on the support. ôDamnà not againàö
Grunting, the boy forced himself up, before trying to climb the rest of the way up. ôEver since thenàö he muttered, knowing the answer to that. ôWhen is it ever going to healàö
Eventually, he reached his room, and he opened the wardrobe doors. Picking up his backpack, he started to take all sorts of clothes, filling it with whatever looked good enough for travel. Once done, he twisted his own cap backwards, unlike what he was wearing before, and zipped the pack closed again.
Slinging it on his back, he wrote down a note as fast as he could, unwilling to wait even one more moment if he could avoid it. Putting the note on top of the table, he sighed in sadness and began making his way to the kitchen, as heÆd need some supplies.
æAnd to think of what today isàÆ he thought, melancholic, while opening shelves and picking up food. æI didnÆt expect it, but if I donÆt leave now, then I donÆt know when IÆm leavingà and I have to. I have to find him againà and I have to see that city.Æ Pausing in front of the picture that was on the wall, he had to fight back tears. ôSorry, momà but I guess the celebrations are going to have to wait.ö
With that, he headed to the back entrance, not much far from there. He knew where to go, firstà but it was somewhere he never thought heÆd have to go ever again.
à
ôThank you, mister!ö
As she entered the store, she saw a familiar girl, leaving one of the cashiers. Even though she no longer wore her once typical outfit, now a tight pink shirt and a pair of blue and black shorts that seemed maybe too tight for her body, the large cap that covered her head was still the same one she had gained, ten years ago, and so was her long, blue hair, shaped like a pair of pincers.
ôHey there, Marina! How have you been?ö she greeted the young girl, who blinked and stopped. Then, her eyes widened in recognition.
ôMiss Seliro! ItÆs so nice to see you!ö she replied cheerfully, running towards her. ôItÆs been a while since you came out of that house!ö
ôYeah, wellàö she paused, a bit uncomfortable, ôtaking care of Jamie has been more difficult, since the accident. IÆm lucky if I can leave him alone and he doesnÆt suffer a nervous failure, nowadaysàö MarinaÆs smile died, and she looked down.
ôàhow is he?ö she asked, nervous. The older woman looked back to her house, longingly.
ôHeÆs fineà it seems his leg has mostly healed, though the doctors told us it would never heal fully. He has spent most of his time resting and studyingà and walking.ö That last word was said with some pride in it. ôHeÆs managed to go far, as of nowà he can probably go from his room to the front door in one go by now, though he still needs the cane to walk. ItÆsà a hope, but itÆs still there.ö
ôI seeàö Marina replied, smiling again. ôDonÆt worry, miss Seliroà IÆm sure that heÆs going to walk again for real one day! He wonÆt need the cane for much longer!ö
She smiled, as well. ôThank youà itÆs nice to hear some encouragement words. Have you managed to complete any of your theories yet?ö
To that, the blue-haired girl shook her head. ôNoà I still need some field experience, but Professor Elm wonÆt let me go on my quest yet. He says IÆm still valuable around the labàö she replied, before a fire started in her eyes. ôBut I swear that IÆll manage to do it, one day! IÆll be the best assistant Professor Elm has ever had, and then IÆll be the best professor of the world! Just you wait, miss Seliroà I am going to succeed, definitely!ö
ôIÆm sure you will,ö the purple-haired woman replied, her smile becoming a bit wider. ôAnd when you do, remember that Jamie and I will always be supporting you, no matter what!ö
ôWill do! But for nowàö Marina trailed off, looking at their surroundings again. ôWhat are you going to make for him?ö she asked, whispering this time. The woman came closer to her, and put one hand to the side of her mouth.
ôItÆs a secretà but please come by later tonight, okay? It wouldnÆt be the same without you,ö she replied, and Marina extended one arm upwards, closing her eyes.
ôOkay! IÆll see you later, miss Seliro!ö she finished, before running off the building, shopping in tow.
ôSay hello to Michael for me!ö the older woman added, before turning away and closing her eyes, taking a deep breath. ôThat girlà I wonder if she has any idea,ö she told herself, before opening her own eyes. Just as with Marina before, her own were full of a fiery passion. ôBut enough of thatà itÆs time to go shopping!ö
As she grabbed a bag and zoomed into the store, one could say she was speeding through, picking up many things sheÆd need for the next meals.
à
The doors to Professor ElmÆs laboratory were pushed wide open, something unusual these days. While the professor himself was too busy working on his papers to notice the intruder, his assistant took a step back, in surprise, and his jaw was hanging; even though he tried to say something, he was too stunned to do so.
However, the sound of a metallic item hitting the floor repeatedly, in a slow pacing, was enough to indicate to him just who it was, and Elm stopped his own research, face grim. ôI hadnÆt expected you here,ö he greeted, standing up and turning away. ôNot in a long timeà what can I do for you, Jamie?ö
On the other side of the room, the aforementioned capped boy was slowly walking ahead, using the cane as his main support with his left hand. A noticeable limp was visible on that leg, and he was struggling to stay up.
ôI know it has been a whileà and that itÆs something I wouldnÆt ask of you normally, professor, butàö he grunted, forcing himself to stand on both feet. ôI need your help.ö
ôMy help?ö Elm asked, amused. ôI admit that IÆm surprised, and you tell me thisà considering what happened to you, I would think my help is the last thing youÆd ever want.ö
ôItÆs related to the same thing from two years ago,ö Jamie told him, and Elm frowned. This surprised the boy; he had never seen the man frown like that.
ôGo on.ö
After a deep breath, the boy started to speak. ôJonathan Daizanà HeÆs the one who broke into your lab, two years ago, snatched a PokÚmon, and then ran away, towards Violet Cityà and who I was forced to battle, not even knowing who he was.ö
ôYesà heÆs the one responsible for your state, and for so much suffering in our small townàö the young professor reminisced, but he focused again. ôBut why are you telling me this now?ö
ôI just found outà Jonathan is the Champion of Kanto!ö Jamie cried out, before pressing a hand against his ribs. æDamnà I need to finish this before itÆs too lateàÆ ôAnd he was somehow related to the Olivine City Gym Leaderà I simply canÆt stay here anymore! I need to go after him again!ö
Surprise overcame Elm, and he found himself unable to speakà that is, until Jamie was done. ôI seeà youÆre going to try and expose him?ö he asked, and Jamie shook his head.
ôIà donÆt know what IÆll do,ö he honestly admitted. ôHoweverà if IÆm going to do anything at all, I canÆt stay here any longer.ö
ôI seeà and I see how it gets back to me,ö Elm replied, amused. ôTwo years ago, I gave you a PokÚmon, to aid you in your short trip to TajiriÆs houseà I suppose you want another one?ö
Jamie nodded. ôYeahà I know I never wanted one, back then, butàö he paused, thinking back on the events of those years. ôBut nowà I guess I donÆt have a choice. I canÆt defend myself half as well as I could thenà I wonÆt survive out there without a PokÚmon.ö
ôVery wellà I suppose I could help you. Howeverà you know what today is, Jamie. Do you honestly want to leave now, with as low preparation as possible, only to go on a hunt for someone with much more resources than you doà especially on your birthday?ö Elm asked, and the boy paused.
ôàyesà I know my mother will be disappointed, and so will everyone elseà but if I donÆt leave, then itÆll be worse,ö he said, looking down. Then, he turned his gaze towards the older man. ôWill you help me or not?!ö
ôFineàö Elm sighed, before turning away. ôI should have known youÆre too hardheadedà just like your father, when it comes to these things,ö he commented, before walking towards a nearby table. As Jamie waited, the professor put his hand inside a box and took something out of it.
ôIÆm sorry I canÆt do any better this timeà but this is the only PokÚmon we have left. The last batch of trainers came and goneà and had it been any other day, you probably would have been lucky and been able to choose,ö he said, his voice a tadà sad, maybe?
Even so, Jamie shook his head. ôDonÆt worry, Professorà I donÆt care about that. Just so long as he or she can help meàö he replied, walking towards the older man and taking the device from him. As he attached it to the side of his outfit, Elm looked directly at his eyes.
ôYou know I canÆt protect you for too long, right?ö he asked, frowning. ôEveryoneÆs bound to know you came here, by the time your mother comes to askà I canÆt lie to her, you know.ö
Jamie nodded. ôYou should just tell her the truthà that I needed to get a PokÚmon from you and that I got one,ö he said, simply. Elm sighed.
ôI guess this is it, thenà good luck, Jamie.ö As the boy turned away and started to leave, he looked back. ôAnd for what mattersà IÆm sorry.ö
He watched as the boy received a Potion and five PokÚballs from his assistant, then turned away and went back to his computer, trying to bury himself in the paperwork.
à
The front door to the Seliro household opened quietly, as the owner of the house made her way to the kitchen. ôI am home,ö she said, hoping to alert him to her presence. The immediate lack of response wasnÆt a concern; several times already, he hadnÆt replied, just because he was too busy with something to hear her.
Humming a quiet song, she started to put down the several bags she had brought back, thinking on the lunch she was going to be preparing today. All his favorite meals, for lunch and dinnerà and then, theyÆd be on the rooftop, watching the starsà
She had to bite back a squeal; it was just going to be great!
A few moments later, she entered the television room. ôSo, how have you be-ö she asked, before pausing. Jamie wasnÆt in the room, and the television was shut off. ôStrangeà where could he be?ö she wondered, before starting to search around the house.
Most of the rooms were empty as well, yet when she went into his room, she saw a small note on the table. Picking it up, she started to read.
ôDear momà noà
Dear Fia,
If youÆre reading this, then you might have noticed that I am not in the house anymoreà and well, thatÆs true. A couple of minutes after you left, I came across a news report, andà I justà couldnÆt stay anymore. I know what day this is, butà
I donÆt really have enough time to explain it, since IÆm going to leave as fast as possible, and I need to get to the nearest city before the night. I think IÆll be back in a couple of months.
Thank you for taking care of me in the past fourteen years, mom. Howeverà if I donÆt leave, I donÆt know if my treatment has been any successful. IÆm sorry for hurting you, and breaking my promiseà but thereÆs no other way.
àsorry for ruining my birthday for you.
Love,
Jamie.ö
As she finished reading the note, tears were streaming down her cheeks, and she fell to her knees. Even as she tried to fight it, she couldnÆtà it was just too painfulà
ôNoà I canÆt believe thisàö she muttered, covering her face with her hands. ôI lost himà I finally lost himàö
She didnÆt know how long she stayed there, cryingà and she didnÆt care.
All she cared aboutà was gone, now.