Grim Future

"N-No. J-Jade? It can't… be…"

Max was lying on the ground in shock with his eyes wide open, petrified as the gruesome scene unfolded before him.

*Shling*

As soon as the gallade removed its blade, Jade lost all strength and feeling in her legs, unable to stand on them anymore. She tried to hold onto the tree with her hands but immediately lost all strength in her arms as well, falling helplessly. Acting on his own, Max went to grab her, making her land softly on his legs, starting to bleed profusely.

"J-Jade…" Max mumbled, paralyzed afterward before looking at the gallade. "What have you done? Why her?" He asked while glaring at him.

{She's the one that got in the way. Besides, I told you to stay put and not try anything.} the gallade said.

Max then clicked and understood that it was the same gallade who captured him and brought him to Qsalyla.

{No matter…} He said, extending his elbow blades. {This time I won't miss you.}

*Slash*

In a flash and a fraction of a second after his last word, his neck got sliced in two, making his head fall and roll a bit further. The headless body stayed on its feet a few seconds before dropping on the ground, twitching ever so slightly. Behind him, Luna appeared with blood on her right claws, with a few stains present on her body. Her face wasn't reflecting a victory, at all, in fact, it was showing the exact opposite.

{Are you… Oh no…} She started before noticing Jade.

Instantly, Max's attention moved back to Jade, who was hardly breathing, blood coming out of her mouth.

"You're… gonna be okay, Jade. You're gonna be okay." Max tried to reassure her, as well as himself. "Help…" He said inaudibly. "H-Help!" He repeated loudly. "Somebody help us! Where's Scarlet? Where is she?" He urged, panicking.

At the same moment, Dusk joined them, only to be shocked as well.

"Someone! Anyone?! Do something, please!" Max urged some more before Dusk's legs failed her, falling on her knees with paws on her mouth. "What are you waiting for?!" He aggressively asked the others. "She needs help now!" He added, but no one moved.

{It's… okay… mister… Max…} Jade assured, barely pronouncing words.

"No, it's not okay! You need to be healed immediately!" He said, tears starting to overflow. "You're gonna be fine! Just… don't do this to me." He bemoaned.

{I'm… sorry…}

"Don't talk. Save your strength to survive until someone does something!" He said, looking at his companions again.

{I'm sorry… but it's the end… of the line… for me…}

"Don't say that! Please… don't say that." Max replied, losing control. "I'm sorry. This is all my fault. If I wasn't weak, you wouldn't be-"

{Hey…} She cut, putting a hand over one of his cheeks, slightly smiling. {You're not… weak. You're strong… and very caring. It may be… the end for me… but all that time I spent with you… were the happiest days… of my life. You gave me hope… and brought me joy.}

"And I'm not done, Jade. There are plenty more happy days coming for us. For you." He bemoaned intensely.

{I hope… for you. My… only regret… would be… that… I didn't get… the chance… to see you… becoming the best.} She said in her last breath, her hand dropping down.

"No, Jade? JADE?!" He yelled, in the hope to make her react.

Sadly, Jade wasn't with them anymore.

"No, no, no, Jade! Don't do this to me… don't leave me…" He said in utter despair, pressing his forehead against her head.

Shortly after, Bonny and Aurora arrived as well, not in really good shape.

{Are you guys o- Oh my god…} Bonny said before freezing like everyone else.

{What… happened?} Aurora asked, hardly believing what she was seeing.

{I was too late. That's what happened.} Luna said in anger.

With Max crying while rocking her backward and forth, May sitting almost in a catatonic state, and Dusk crying all the water out of her body, nobody knew what to do or say. Jade was dead, and the fact was now forever engraved in reality.

{Where's Scarlet?}

{Qsalyla fled… and she went after her.} Aurora hardly answered, trying her best not to break down herself.

Bonny, however, had dropped on all fours with a mix of sadness and anger.

{Why did this have to happen?} She bemoaned as well, staring at the ground, staining it with her tears.

"I'm sorry, Jade. I'm sorry." Max repeated over and over, balancing the lifeless corpse of the pale green gardevoir.

{Damnit!} Luna growled, punching a nearby tree.

The scene lasted for a moment, but to the group, it felt like forever, letting themselves succumb to their emotions.

{What do we do now?} Aurora asked, calmed down a little.

{*Sniff* The only thing we can. We bury her.} Bonny said with her cheeks fur tainted by her tears, calmed a little as well.

{...You're right, but…}

At the feet of the tree, Max had stopped repeating 'I'm sorry', but was holding her against him, brushing her hair.

{How… Do we tell him?}

At the same moment, Scarlet finally appeared, walking towards them, holding one shoulder in pain.

{Where were you?} Aurora asked rather aggressively.

{She fucking got away, so I'm not really in the mood for any of your shit right now.} The red gardevoir retorted.

{And you think he is?} Aurora retorted, pointing at Max.

Now next to her, Scarlet looked forward and saw the sad scene in front of her. It took her a few seconds to fully realize the situation.

{N-No way… you're fucking kidding me…} She expressed with a slightly cracked voice. {Master? Are you okay?} She inquired, dashing next to him.

Not responding, Max only looked at nothing while still brushing Jade's hair.

{But…}

She quickly found herself at a loss for words, unsure of how to react, before becoming emotionally distressed.

{No… master…} She said, shedding a few tears. {Qsalyla… I swear… I'm gonna track you down… and I'm gonna skin you alive as soon as I get my hands on you!} The gardevoir exclaimed with balled fists, rage starting to boil her blood.

The others let her briefly release her anger before she calmed down enough to return her attention to him.

{Master? Can you hear me?} She softly asked, gently shaking one shoulder. {Master? It's me.}

"...She didn't deserve this." He finally spoke.

{You're ri-}

"She was just trying to get by in life, without causing trouble or bothering anyone. She just wanted to…" He said before losing it again.

{...You're right. She didn't deserve this. In fact… she didn't deserve any of the harsh treatment she received.}

"Yeah, especially from you." He complained with a mix of sadness and annoyance.

Those words hurt her, but she told herself that it was just his emotions talking. But the worst part about what he said, was that he was right. After a while, Luna managed to calm down and sat on her knees next to him.

{Max? I know it's hard for you right now, but… we can't leave her like this.} She softly told him.

Now that he knew a bit about her, Max understood that she knew what he was going through, as she lived through it as well.

"It's not fair." He bemoaned. "Why her? Why couldn't she have had the right to be happy and have a happy ending for once in her life?"

{She did say that her time with you was the only time she actually felt happy.} Luna reassured with a paw on one shoulder.

"But at what cost?"

For a short moment, no one added anything.

{Luna does have a point, master. We can't leave her like that, we should at least put her to rest somewhere and give her a proper burial.} Scarlet mentioned. {I can help you. We all will.}

"*Sniff* ...Okay." He finally agreed.

As he was trying to stand while holding Jade, Luna and Scarlet tried to help him but protested by pushing them away.

"But I'll do it by myself." He told them.

Respecting his decision, they let him stand on his own, and he immediately started walking in no specific direction, with the rest of the team following. However, Dusk was still on the ground crying and sniffing, unable to do anything. Bonny stayed and put a paw on one of her shoulders. She looked at her with a face ravaged by sadness.

{He would want you to accompany us.}

She snorted a few times before answering.

{...Okay.}

Bonny offered her one paw, helped her stand, and caught up to the others. They walked for a little while to find a suitable place for Jade's grave. They found it when they arrived in front of a rather colossal-sized tree and decided that it would be good.

{I'll make a six feet deep hole for her.} Scarlet suggested when at the foot of the tree.

"No. I'll do the digging." Max denied.

{But, you don't have a shovel.}

"There is one in my backpack. A small foldable one."

Scarlet looked at him for a short time before giving up with a sigh.

{Alright. I'll go get it.} The gardevoir said before teleporting away.

Max barely had the time to drop Jade next to him as Scarlet was already back. After she handed him the shovel, he unfolded it and immediately got to work.

{Are you sure-}

"Yes." Max coldly replied.

Unable to do anything, the girls waited roughly half an hour for Max to finish his non-stop digging and make a decent grave. Tossing the shovel aside, he jumped out and grabbed Jade once again before jumping back in. This is where he started to get hesitant. He looked at Jade one last time, in hope that she was still alive, but just unconscious.

{Master?} Scarlet asked after half a minute.

"I… can't." He bemoaned one last time. "I can't just let her-"

While speaking, he felt Scarlet's on one shoulder.

{Then let's do it together.}

Moving in front of him, she put her hands under Jade and began to slowly drop her at the bottom with Max. Scarlet noticed her necklace, removed it from her neck, and brought it to Max.

{Maybe you would want to keep this in her memory.}

Grabbing it, Max stared at the necklace, which had almost the same color as Jade. Unable to say a word, Max only grasped it tightly and looked at Scarlet in a thankful way. When they were done, both exited the grave and faced it with the group, all looking at Jade for the very last time.

{I think humans have the custom to pray in these types of moments.}

"I've never really been a very religious type of person, but yeah. She deserves that much."

At that, the group closed their eyes and wished her farewell.

"You… you can bury her now," Max told Scarlet.

After she nodded, she used her powers to lift the dirt pile and hovered above the grave.

{May you find peace in the afterlife, Jade.} She wished before gently dropping the dirt, vanishing her existence, followed by a short silence.

"I… would like to be alone with her for a moment," Max said, sitting in front of the grave.

With Dusk still madly but silently crying, the girls acknowledged his wish and left him alone.

{We should move the campsite a bit closer, so we can keep an eye on him and make sure nothing happens to him.} Luna proposed.

{Yeah. I think I'll do just that.} Scarlet replied, quite morose.

After securing a good spot for maintaining Max's safety without being invasive, the girls waited in place until Scarlet was back with the tent and the necessities needed for a campsite. As soon as it was pitched, May, Dusk, and Bonny immediately went in, done for today.

{I think I want to be alone for a bit as well.} Scarlet announced before floating away, leaving Aurora and Luna alone together.

{*Sigh* Just when things couldn't get any worse.} Aurora commented.

{Always assume that it can.} Luna replied, walking away towards where Max was.

{Yeah, I guess so.} Aurora conceded, following her.

They walked for less than a minute before seeing him in the distance. Luna then crossed her arms and laid against a tree while Aurora sat on the ground nearby, both looking at Max.

{How do you think he'll live with this?} Aurora asked Luna.

{It's hard to tell. It all depends on how he is. There are a lot of outcomes that can result from that.}

{And we were doing our best to make him have more faith in himself. But with Jade gone, I'm afraid that his self-esteem will hit rock bottom.}

{...Unfortunately, that's a huge possibility. He's still emotionally fragile.}

{Tsk. All of that could have been avoided if I was just a little bit stronger.} Aurora said, starting to get a bit mad.

{We're all to blame for this, not just you. We could have prevented her death if I didn't pursue them as I did.}

{What exactly happened?}

{I got careless. I was too busy not wanting to lose their scents to notice that attack.}

{I see. *Sigh* Looks like things have changed forever. It will never be the same after today.} Aurora said, a bit melancholic.

{Correct. I hope he's not too traumatized and that he can get through these difficult times.}

{I suppose all we can do is cross our fingers and hope for the best.} Aurora replied as both of them stayed there for a while.

Eventually, Aurora was almost sleeping while sitting.

{You should go get some rest.} Luna suggested, waking her up.

{I'm fine.} Aurora replied, rubbing her face.

{We all had a hard day, yourself included. Go rest yourself. I'll watch over him.}

{What about you?}

{I'm a night owl. I'll sleep tomorrow afternoon.}

The lucario didn't want to let Luna do all the work by herself, but she acknowledged that she was barely able to keep her eyes open, thus making her a rather useless guardian.

{...Alright.} She conceded while standing up. {Keep us in touch for any sort of change.}

{Will do.}

At that, Aurora left and went inside the tent, where she heard Dusk sniffing regularly in her corner on one mattress. Not wanting to bother her at all, the lucario laid down in her own corner and shut her eyes. Despite being very tired, it took her a little while to fall asleep, her brain constantly playing back Jade's death. Before drifting to the dreamland, she silently cried herself to sleep.

A moment later, she opened her eyes to see the daylight. Sitting up, she noticed Dusk and May still sleeping and guessed that they fell asleep very recently. Leaving the tent, she was welcomed with a bright and sunny day but wasn't in the mood to enjoy it in the slightest. Her first reflex was to go check on Jade's grave, to see if Max was still there. Half surprised, he still was, with Luna being in the same spot she was yesterday.

{He didn't move an inch the entire night.} Luna informed her.

Sighing, Aurora sat next to Luna.

{Looks like grim days await us.} Aurora commented, to which Luna didn't reply anything. {He didn't even sleep or eat?} She questioned.

{I don't know. He may have dozed off a bit here and there, but I do know that he hasn't eaten anything yet since he didn't move at all.}

{I get that it must be really hard for him, but we can't let him stay there forever.}

{I know, but… I just don't have the heart to go there and pull him away.}

{Not pulling him away, but telling him that he should start thinking about leaving soon.}

{...Maybe.} Luna conceded.

Aurora was quite surprised that for the first time since she properly knew her, she had shown a moment of weakness. She didn't think less of her but saw that she wasn't as insensitive as she first thought. She must have sincerely liked Jade and was worried sick about Max.

{...I'll do it. I really don't want to, but sadly, someone has to.} Aurora said while standing up.

Not speaking, Luna just looked at Aurora getting near him. When next to him, Aurora noticed how tired-looking his face was, meaning that he probably didn't sleep at all.

{...Can I sit with you?} The lucario asked softly, trying her best to not bring that up.

Max's response took a while before being heard.

"...Do whatever you want." He said coldly, almost sounding like a soulless machine.

She then sat on her knees very close to him.

{How are you feeling?}

"...I don't know." He simply replied.

{You know, master Fushiu once told me that pokemon never really die. They either turn into ghost-type pokemon, or they get reincarnated. I'm sure that, somewhere, she's very happy and grateful for what you did for her.}

"You think?"

{I believe so. Life was very unfair to her, so the least we can do is hope that she gets luckier in her next life.}

"I really hope so."

{I'm sure it's already the case.} She concluded before a short silence. {But… I'm also convinced that she wouldn't have liked seeing you stay here, not progressing towards your goal.}

"..."

{We can stay as much as you need, but just not forever. It won't help your grief if we stay here.}

"What do you know about grief?"

{Well, not much personally, only what I've been told, which I decided to believe because it made sense.}

"Good for you."

{I didn't want to sound mean, but it's that the sooner we leave, the sooner you will accept that Jade is… no longer with us.}

"And what if I don't want to accept it?" He said with a bit more emotion than his previous responses.

{...Max…}

"What if she's not really dead and we buried her anyway? Surely she will need help getting out."

{Max… she's not coming back.} She softly said, a paw on one of his shoulders.

"You don't know that!" Max exclaimed, almost sounding upset now.

To Aurora, it was obvious there was nothing that could have been done with the wound Jade had, but Max was still in denial. She then had an idea.

{...Can I make a deal with you?}

"What?"

{We can stay here for two more days if it's what you need, to see if she indeed comes back. If not, you will have to accept that she's gone forever and leave.}

Max found the two days proposal rather short but was convinced that if she was to come back, she would within that delay.

"...Okay. But she will come back, you'll see."

{I hope that's the case.} Aurora reassured, gently rubbing his shoulder.

After getting up, she walked to Luna.

{So?} Luna asked.

{I had to bargain with him. I told him that we'll stay for two more days to see if she comes back, which we both know will not happen. If not, we'll move on.}

{*Sigh* I hope we did the right thing. I'm afraid of how he will take it after those two days.}

{Not well, unfortunately. But if we get lucky, maybe he will realize it in the meantime.}

{I doubt it.}

{*Sigh* That makes two of us.}

Leaving her again, Aurora remembered that she hadn't seen Bonny when she woke up, so she went to search where she could be. She easily spotted her using her nose. Approaching her, she saw her in a rather cleared zone, shadow sparring. By how sweaty she was smelling, she has been going at it for a good amount of time now.

{I should have guessed that this was how you unbottle your feelings.} Aurora engaged in a friendly manner.

{This doesn't… have anything to do… with my feelings. I just… need to get better… and faster… and stronger. Maybe then… I'll be able… to prevent something like that… from happening again.} She said between her breaths.

{...I see. Do you need a training partner?}

{No thanks.} Bonny refused, going for quick and numerous one-handed pushups.

{Okay. Well, if you change your mind…} Aurora proposed, without receiving an answer.

Leaving her, Aurora went to find a quiet place to meditate. While doing so, she noticed a few trees that were quite damaged, as if someone punched them repeatedly, with a few of them having blood stains on them.

{Scarlet…} She mumbled, discouraged. {You're overdoing it again.}

When she found a good spot, she went into her meditative stance. Right now, she really needs it.

This was the status quo around the camp until noon. At the grave, Max still hasn't moved yet, with Luna still keeping an eye on him while keeping herself busy. Behind him, Scarlet finally reappeared with a plate of food.

{You must be hungry, master.} She said to him, one meter behind him. {I made you your favorite meal; Boar's steak under Sitrus berry juice with pieces of jala berries.}

"...I appreciate the thought, but I'm not hungry. Thanks anyway." He said, not even sounding sorry.

{But… you haven't eaten since last night.}

"I'm not hungry. Thanks." He repeated.

{...Okay.} She finally conceded, despite herself.

While leaving, she came across Luna, who was back to check him.

{He still didn't want to eat?} The zoroark questioned.

{...No.} Scarlet replied, not stopping and without even looking at her.

Sighing, Luna looked back at Max.

{By the way, he promised Aurora that we'll leave if Jade doesn't come back in two days.}

Instead of hearing an answer, she heard the plate Scarlet was still holding falling on the ground a couple of seconds later, wasting all food on it.

{...It's my fault…} She started to bemoan. {It's entirely my fault.}

Looking at her, Luna saw Scarlet having her fist clenched and shaking a bit.

{Scarlet…}

{I was the one Qsalyla wanted. It's because of who and what I am that all of this happened.} She said, tears profusely escaping her eyes.

It's obvious to Luna that she was trying her best to contain her emotions, but without any success.

{If only I had complied…} She stated, putting her hands on her face.

{Don't say that. If you had let her kill you, Max would be in the same state, probably even worse since it's you.}

Unable to resist anymore, her feelings exploded, and burst into tears, dropping herself on all four.

{It's my fault! I broke him! I fucking broke him!}

Luna couldn't help but to feel her pain herself. It just occurred to her that she never saw Scarlet break down like that, which could only mean that her pain must be excruciating and she finally reached her limits.

{I should have never met him… I'm a living curse and he paid the price. I bring nothing but pain and misery to him.} Scarlet bemoaned loudly.

{You know full well that it's not true.} Luna contradicted.

{My color… My personality… nothing good can come out of me. It will only be a never-ending cycle of suffering… all because of me…}

{I remember him saying that you were the best thing that ever happened in his life.}

{Yeah… And look how that turned out…}

{Scarlet…}

{Maybe… I should leave for good this time. Maybe… he could be at peace.}

{Do you honestly think he would agree to that? Would that really make him feel better?}

Not responding, Scarlet cried and sobbed some more for a moment before starting to calm down.

{No, but it would be the last time he's in pain…}

{More like the complete opposite. He loves you, Scarlet, more than anything else in the world probably. Things like that could happen again, even without you in the picture. The only difference being… he wouldn't have you to carry him when he falls down.}

After hearing her words, Scarlet seemed to have calmed down even more. Shortly after, she stood up, whipped the tears off her face, and walked away to who knows where without saying anything. Luna then watched over Max for a couple more minutes before being joined by Aurora again.

{It's your turn to rest. I'll take it from here.} Aurora said.

{Go ahead…} She replied, but without moving. {How are the others?}

{A total mess. May is just sitting in front of the extinguished campfire and staring at it for no reason. Dusk is just… not there.}

{What do you mean?}

{I asked May and she told me that she just left. My guess would be that she wants to grieve in solitary.}

{My guess would be that she doesn't want to bother us with her constant crying.}

{She must've had it really hard. She and Jade were getting quite close.}

{Yeah…} She replied, looking at Max for another minute. {Well, I'll leave it to you then.}

{Alright.}

Nothing had really changed for the rest of the day. Aurora was resuming her meditation while keeping an eye on Max. Dusk stayed absent for the entire day and May didn't do much besides wander around, staring at the ground. Now at night time, the group gathered around the campfire that Scarlet was preparing. When ready, Dusk ignited it.

{Is Bonny still training?} Scarlet asked, noticing the absence of the lopunny.

{Probably.} Aurora answered. {I haven't seen her since this morning.}

{Maybe we should invite her here. These are difficult times, but we shouldn't break our routine because of that. Our moments around the fire have always been the best time for us, soothing and calming our minds.}

{Yeah. I'll try and get her.} the lucario agreed, heading towards the lopunny.

{As for me, I'll try with him.} Scarlet said, doing the same and heading to Max.

{The campfire is ready if you want to come.} She told him when she reached him.

"Great."

{It could do you well, master. It has always appeased you.}

"Yeah, when everyone is here."

Sighing slightly, she kneeled behind him.

{Come on, master.} She started, a hand on one shoulder. {Just a couple of minutes with us won't kill you. Fuck. Poor choice of words.} She expressed, a bit mad. {What I mean is that taking your mind off things for a little can't be bad for you. Who knows, it might lighten your mood a little. Bonny is about to join, so the only missing one would be you.}

"..."

{I promise you that nothing will happen to her.} She assured him.

Max hesitated a moment before replying.

"...If you say so." He conceded before finally standing up for the first time since last night.

Since he didn't use his legs for a certain amount of time, he stumbled a bit when standing, with Scarlet catching him. Without thanking her, he managed to regain his balance after a few steps and accompanied his gardevoir to the campfire.

{Nice to see you join us.} Luna greeted.

"I won't stay for long." He replied, sitting on one trunk, immediately staring at the fire.

After a brief look was exchanged between Scarlet and Luna, the gardevoir sat next to him without being too close. She then presented him with a few Oran berries.

{You should eat.}

"Still not hungry."

{Master, please.} She insisted.

Sighing in annoyance, he grabbed them and munched on two before giving them back.

{Better than nothing I guess.} She said, eating the rest.

~POVC~

Further, into the woods, Aurora arrived where she last saw Bonny. Luckily, she was still there but what she saw didn't please her.

{Bonny?!} She exclaimed, rushing to her, who was lying on the ground, not moving. {What happened?} She asked, shaking her.

As if she had just been awakened, Bonny opened her eyes, looking a bit lost for a short moment.

{Are you okay?}

{...Yeah. I guess... that I'm still too weak.} She said, sitting up with difficulty.

{Huh? Wait, don't tell me you trained until you pass out?!}

{Well, training was the last thing I remember doing.}

{Damn, Bonny. That's not how you get stronger. You need to rest accordingly if you want your body to progress.} Aurora scolded.

{It's too much of a waste of time. I need to get strong, and fast.}

{*Sigh* We'll talk about this again later. For now, I came to get you for our usual campfire gathering.}

{Seriously? If you guys have time for that, then you have time to train as well.}

{Okay, can we change the subject for a bit? You want to get stronger, fine, but you won't do it in one day. Rest now to train harder later, and besides, I'm sure that Max is going to join us.}

For a moment, Bonny looked at Aurora as if she wasn't believing her. Fortunately, she finally decided to comply.

{Erh… Fine. I now know that it's not you who has to work extra hard due to your typing.} She retorted while trying to stand up, but without success.

{You can be a real pain when you're that stubborn. Let me help you.} Aurora commented, helping her to stand and carried a bit of her weight.

{Heh, says the most stubborn pokemon alive.}

{Don't exaggerate. I'm in the top ten at worst.} She jested.

{Hehe. At least, you mean.} Bonny slightly chuckled with both of them joining the others.

When there, Aurora helped Bonny sit down and sat in front of Max, who was still staring at the fire, fingers crossed.

{Tonight… I'll be really relieved if you slept in the tent.} Scarlet told Max. {I don't want you to catch anything. You should also have a good night's sleep.}

"I'll think about it."

For a long time, no one said a thing. Sadly, the peaceful moment didn't last exceptionally long before Max stood up to get back to the grave. With Scarlet a bit worried, the girls stayed quietly around the fire, staying up late as no one felt like going to sleep. Fortunately, and to Scarlet's satisfaction, Max went inside the tent after coming back from the grave, shortly followed by Dusk and May, who gave in to the tiredness.

{Well, shit.} Scarlet expressed after a moment.

{You could say that again.} Aurora agreed.

For the rest of the night, the rest of the group didn't talk much and chose to stay up even later than before, with nobody feeling even remotely drowsy, even after past midnight. Eventually, Bonny and Aurora dozed off on the spot, while Scarlet was being quite tormented by her thoughts, holding her head in despair.

{What are you thinking?} Luna questioned.

{Everything. Thinking about how maybe it wasn't a good idea to push master to become a pokemon trainer. About if it's really safe for him to have me around. You know, that sort of stuff.}

{Well, for pushing him to become a pokemon trainer, I don't know. Maybe yes, maybe no but he is safe with you. Even though you can be a little overprotective of him, you saved him from a couple of nasty situations.}

{You all can do the same if you become more attentive.}

Not knowing what to retort, Luna remained silent.

{I… think I'll stay away for a while.} Scarlet announced.

{Again? I'm not sure it's a good idea. He needs you, Scarlet.}

{It would just be for a couple of days, and no, he doesn't need me. Anything I can do, the five of you can do just as well, if not better.}

{Yes, he does.} Luna argued. {You just don't get it, do you? You are his lover and he is yours. In moments like this, you're the one he needs the most.}

Staying silent, Scarlet stared at the fading fire for a moment.

{Maybe you're right.} She said with a morose tone before standing up. {I'm gonna go for a walk again and think about that.} She decided, leaving.

After staring at the fire for a few more minutes, Luna extinguished it and went on her own walk. The night was quite beautiful, as the moon was almost full and was enlightening the area. It had been about an hour or two that Scarlet wandered aimlessly through the woods and didn't notice that she got quite far away from the campsite, but nothing that a quick Teleport can't help with. After a while, she got a short moment of lucidity and noticed that she was walking on a wooden bridge right above a waterfall. Stopping, she put her elbows on the ramp and watched over the gorgeous view she had, looking far into the horizon above a lower portion of the forest. Despite the amazing view, she was in so much pain that she couldn't even feel good about it. Shortly, she got lost in her thoughts again.

{Master, I'm sorry, for what happened and for what is happening to you right now. I thought I was strong enough to shield you away from all of this. That was my only wish.} She said to herself, shedding tears. {You didn't deserve this pain.} She added, dropping her forehead on her forearms and let out her sadness one more time.

Oddly, she retaliated quite quickly before looking at the scenery before her again. Without even using her power, she climbed over the ramp, still looking forward.

{I'm so sorry, master. It might hurt you now, but you will be better off without me. I count on you to keep him safe, my friends. I'll leave the rest to you.}

Closing her eyes, she deliberately lost her balance and let herself fall down the waterfall, disappearing in the water below.

~POVC~

In the middle of the night, Max opened his eyes for what felt like the fourth time. Sighing, he left the tent and sat on a trunk. Since there was no fire, Max didn't see much, but thanks to the moon, he wasn't completely blind. He stayed there for a very short moment before he heard Luna approaching.

{Can't sleep?} She asked with crossed arms.

"How can I? Every time I close my eyes, I only have the same nightmare."

{...}

"It's like a movie that is constantly repeating itself. All I see is the memory of that moment, her blood splattering on my face as she got pierced by…" He started explaining but was unable to finish.

{I get it. No need to say more.} Luna interrupted before a brief silence settled.

"Well, since I have nothing to do, I'll go check on her to see if anything happens." Max decided, standing up.

As he was walking away, Luna had had enough of seeing him like this. Not seeing him sad, but unable to accept reality, as it was only makes things more painful for him.

{...What can you expect by watching over her?} Luna questioned.

"Huh? Well, nothing in particular I guess. Just that if she comes back, I'll be the first to know."

{Max…}

"What?"

{...Come here. I need to tell you something.}

"Can't this wait until later?"

{No.} She firmly replied.

Loudly sighing, Max sat back where he previously was. Luna used a weak Flamethrower on the campfire to illuminate the zone a bit before moving to sit right next to him.

{Max… you have to realize and accept that-}

"She's not dead." He cut. "She can't be dead. She's too kind and innocent to die like that. I know the world is shit, but it can't be that cruel. She doesn't deserve it. At all. She..."

{I agree one hundred percent with you on that, but…}

"But nothing. End of the discussion."

{Max…} She said, putting a paw on one of his thighs. {Look at me.} She asked, making him look at her a bit arrogantly. {She's dead, Max.}

"What's the matter with all of you? I thought you liked her more than that!" He exclaimed, getting mad while standing up. "Why are you in such a rush to forget about her and say shit like that?!"

{Just face it already.} Luna retorted in the same tone as him while standing up as well, towering him. {You're only making it harder for yourself. She. Is. Dead. No, she didn't deserve it, but things are the way they are and the only thing we can do about it is to accept that it happened and move forward.}

"You know what, Luna. I never thought I would ever say this to you, but fuck you, alright? I saw how eager you were to bury her and forget about her, and here I thought you were better than that." He angrily spat while going to pass next to her.

However, Luna blocked the way, preventing him from getting away.

"Let. Me. Through." He ordered menacingly.

{Sorry, but no.}

"I won't ask a second time."

Not moving, she only glared at him.

"I said move!"

Exploding, Max tried to punch her in the abdomen, but the zoroark effortlessly blocked and grabbed his fist, only preventing him from using it.

"You fucking..." He growled, throwing his other fist, which Luna grabbed it the same way, now completely trapped. "Let me go!" He furiously commanded, trying to pull his fists away, but to no avail. "Let me go goddamnit!" He repeated, struggling madly. "Let me go…"

Then, his anger was gradually replaced by sadness and struggle replaced by tears.

"Please… let me go…" He bemoaned, not struggling anymore.

With Luna releasing his fists, he let himself drop on his knees, arms on his thighs. The zoroark followed him and sat on her knees before him.

{I'm sorry for what I just did. I didn't want to hurt you or see you hurting yourself. But… it's just that the more you deny reality… I'm sorry Max, but Jade is gone.}

For a moment, Max didn't say anything before Luna started to hear him sobbing.

"...You think I don't know that?"

{Well, I knew that deep down, you did, but you didn't want to face the facts as it was too painful for you. Although your reaction is normal, Max, it is unhealthy. You did that to try to stay optimistic but you must understand that we're all here for you. We won't let you down.} She reassured him, moving closer to him while putting her paws on his shoulders.

Bursting into tears again, Max dropped his head on Luna's chest, who pulled him into a hug.

{There, there. Just let it out. No one will mock you for it.} She softly assured, gently rubbing his back.

After Max coiled his arms around her, he unbottled his feelings for a couple of minutes before calming down.

{Feeling better?} Luna asked after he broke the hug.

"Not really, but it's mitigated enough to be at least bearable. It still hurts like hell." He replied, rubbing his eyes.

{I know. Losing someone you care for is the worst pain possible. I should know.}

"The feeling's mutual. The saddest part of that is I don't even remember if it was that painful when my mother died. It was, but… I'm such a jerk."

{I wouldn't say that. You probably have your reasons.}

"I don't know…"

Standing up, Luna smiled in a reassuring way and helped him to stand with one paw before he sat on the trunk again.

"The most painful part for me is to know that I got Jade killed." Max started.

{What are you saying? It was that-}

"Gallade? It's me who he wanted to kill first. Because I was a weak little bitch, she pushed me and took the hit for me. If only I kept my eyes open…"

{She did it because…} Luna started before stopping.

"Go on."

{She believed that your life was more valuable than hers. That's why she didn't hesitate to sacrifice herself to save you.}

"That's BS, my life isn't worth more than others. But I will be fair, so that I don't sound pessimistic again, and say that there are some lives that don't matter more than mine either."

{...I know it may be hard to hear, but she chose to die for you.}

"Of course, because everyone apparently wants to die every now and then."

{That's not what I meant and you know it.}

Sighing, Max stared at the fire.

"...We'll leave tomorrow." He announced.

{We don't have to. You can take your time and live what you have to live.}

"No, you were right. Staying here any longer than necessary won't help."

{Without spending the entire day next to her, we can stay a bit longer, so you can visit her until you feel ready to leave.} She proposed.

Max sighed once again.

"We'll see to it tomorrow. I'll try to get some sleep again." He said, leaving for the tent.

{Good night.} Luna wished.

~POVC~

Slowly, she opened her eyes. Her sight was very blurry at first, but it gradually became clearer. Then, as her vision was returning, she came down with a huge headache.

{Gaaaa!} She growled in pain.

"...Finally awake?" Said a voice not far away.

Not expecting that, she quickly turned her head to the right, only to see a rather imposing man standing inside the modest wooden house she was in, his back facing her while seemingly preparing something a bit further. She guessed that it was morning thanks to the ambient light shining through the window.

"You're one lucky gardevoir."

Scarlet then realized that she somehow survived her jump and ended up in a completely unknown location. She immediately got into survival mode and tried to attack him while he wasn't looking. However, as she tried to use her powers, her headache became a lot more intense, preventing her from attacking.

"Don't overdo it. You've hurt your head pretty badly." He advised.

Now that he mentioned it, Scarlet felt something around her head. She touched it and felt that it was a bandage. She explored for a short moment before pressing down on where she got it.

{Ghhaa! Fuck!} She growled in intense pain.

The man turned to her, revealing himself to be a large, bearded human male, maybe in his forties, and sat down on a chair next to the bed where Scarlet was resting on. She immediately sat up and retreated back as much as she could before her back pressed against the wall, fists raised and glaring menacingly at him since she couldn't use her powers.

"Calm down. You're just gonna reopen your wound." He said, handing her a cup.

Not even looking at the cup, her eyes didn't unlock from the human.

"It's medicine. Crude, but efficient nonetheless. It will help you recover."

Again, she didn't move a muscle.

"Suit yourself." He simply said, placing the cup on a nearby table.

The man then immediately got busy with other things, mostly ignoring her.

[Who are you?] She asked with audible telepathy despite the pain it brought.

"Who am I? Strange question. Just a normal human doing normal human things."

[What is this place and why am I here?]

"This is my home, and you're here because I saved your life. It's a good thing that Fisher found you in time."

[...Who is this Fisher?]

"The swampert that lives with me. Well, living would be an exaggeration as he's out doing whatever he wants, mostly just wandering around from time to time."

Slowly, the memories of her jumping down the waterfall re-emerged.

[I…]

"Tried to kill yourself, yeah."

[How… do you know?] She asked.

"Fisher told me."

[Of course.] She replied a bit haughtily.

They shared a moment of silence with Scarlet not feeling that safe and him being a man of few words.

[So, what are you going to do with me? Capture me? Sell me? Rape me? How about all three?]

"Now what makes you think that I would do such things?"

[Because all humans are the same…]

"Really now?"

[They can't be trusted and have no room for compassion in their hearts.]

"Huh. The more you know."

[Well, all except one…] She said with a lower volume, suddenly looking depressed.

"Ah, so there is hope for humanity."

[Are you mocking me?] She accused, irritated.

"Not at all. I'm just wondering why you would think about humans like that."

[Because I've seen how evil and disgusting they can be.]

"I see. Well, I can't deny that some are."

[It's more than just some.]

"Maybe. So what? Is there an exception to that?"

[It's none of your business.]

"Fair enough."

At that moment, she shivered in the cold, letting out a small noise despite herself. Not even looking, the man went into a dresser and withdrew a thick blanket, and handed it to her.

[I don't need your fake charity.] She growled, refusing.

"Fake? I don't know, but your temperature dropped quite a bit in that water. It will help you warm up.

Scarlet glared at him in a rather hateful manner before aggressively snatching the blanket from his hand.

"Quite the temper, I see." He commented.

[Who the fuck cares?]

"Not me, that's for sure."

Before covering herself, she inspected every angle of the blanket.

"It's not poisoned or booby-trapped if it's what worries you."

[With humans, you never know.]

Barely raising an eyebrow, the man walked away and continued with his business, while Scarlet covered herself with the blanket. Even though she was more comfortable, her gaze never left the man.

"Hungry?"

[No.]

"Alright, more for me and Fisher."

His way of not insisting on anything made Scarlet quite suspicious.

[...Why are you helping me? You have nothing to gain from doing so. I don't plan on thanking you anytime soon.]

"Is that right?" He replied, not sounding upset in the slightest.

[You still haven't answered my question.] She demanded, getting impatient. [Who are you?" And where the fuck am I?]

"I told you; just a simple man trying to live a simple life."

[And you think I will believe that?]

"Can't really force you to believe me, can I?"

[No, and I suggest you don't try anything, otherwise, I'll burn your brain to a crisp and dismember your body as soon as I recover.] She threatened.

"That's a threat I've never heard before."

[It's not a threat, it's something I've already done, and I won't be afraid to do it again.]

"But since I believe you, such a tragedy won't be necessary."

Not answering, Scarlet narrowed her eyes at him.

"As for your powers, until your psycortex is healed and the psionic waves in your brain are back to normal, you won't be using any of your abilities without risking further injury. However, you should still be able to use a few moves that aren't psychic-related."

Surprised by this, she frowned at what he just said. Raising a fist, she attempted Fire Punch. Even though it was weak and hurt her head a little, she could use it.

[...How do you know all that?]

"..."

[You are no ordinary human. Tell me who you really are, before I reduce this whole place to ash.]

Without answering, he finished whatever he was doing and walked back to her, putting a plate of food specially made for psychic pokemon on the nightstand of the bed, and sat back down in the chair.

[Well?]

"I didn't lie when I said I was a simple man wanting a simple life. But you're right, I'm a little more than that."

[I knew it! You just want to have your way with me!] She accused, bursting two weak Fire Punches, glaring at him.

Not even a little fazed, he only looked at her.

"You could say that, but not in the way that you think."

[...What do you mean?] She asked in a calmer tone.

"You may not have noticed yet since you never stopped staring at me, but we're in the middle of the woods, in a house that I built myself. Well, Fisher appeared when I was half done and helped me finish it."

[You're a hermit, so what? I still don't trust you.]

"Yes, I am, but a retired one. Before moving away from civilization, I was an expert in human relationships and behavior, to which I later switched to pokemon resources and intellectual management. Basically, think of me as some kind of pokemon psychologist."

Scarlet stared at him for a moment, just to see if he would betray himself with his eyes. After she acknowledged that he wasn't lying, she put out the fire of her fists.

[So that's why you saved me? You want to know what's going on in my already broken mind?]

"Not really. I will if I have to, but I don't really want to."

[That doesn't make any sense.]

"I retired and separated myself from society because I couldn't handle social interaction from both humans and pokemon. I possess knowledge that can benefit them, but it doesn't mean that I want to help them. I just do the right thing."

[...You're a weird one.]

"Haha, maybe."

[Why did you seek knowledge that you didn't end up using? Also, why avoid pokemon? We're better than humans in every way possible.]

"You have your strengths, sure, but having an intellect similar to or higher than humans sometimes plays against you, at least in my eyes."

[Explain yourself.] She demanded, almost sounding offended.

"I've never been good with social interactions, as I have very little to no patience for the annoying side of it. And since both humans and pokemon share similar intellect, especially when it comes to relationships, it became too much for me to handle."

[Why pursue that career then?]

"I was young and naive. I thought that if I study and work in that branch, maybe I would learn how to tolerate them."

[Which obviously failed, I see.]

"After a couple of years, yes. I tried as much as I could, but relationships with other intelligent beings aren't for me."

[Which contradicts as to why you saved me.]

"Not really. Despite not looking to interact with them, I don't dislike pokemon. Like a lot of humans, I find you quite interesting. I saved you because I didn't want my solitary nature to prevent me from doing the right thing. Why should I let you die just so I could be alone?"

[That point is irrelevant if I wanted to die.] Scarlet replied with a serious tone.

"I'm sorry if I kept you away from your desires. However, I won't be able to live with myself if I were to abandon someone, let alone any creature, in need without even trying to help."

[That's… you're making no sense at all.]

"Perhaps. Must be why I don't get along with anyone."

[Probably.]

"You don't have to, but do you wish to share with me why you wanted to die?"

[You're not my friend. Why should I tell you anything about me?]

"It's obvious that something's troubling you. No creature really wants to die, they just want to stop their suffering."

[And?]

"If I know what's the problem, maybe I can help you in some way. However, if you really don't want to talk about it, it's your choice. You're free to leave whenever you want. Just be careful next time and I hope things get better for you." The man said, standing to leave.

He was a human and she hated him for it, but she was hardly believing how he wasn't as bad as most humans she encountered so far. He didn't have the same charm and beauty as Max, but he did save her and patched up her wounds. Just like her master when they first met. In the end, she guessed that he wasn't that bad, especially since he didn't try anything on her in her most vulnerable state.

[...What will it change…] She said, looking at the ground in front of her.

"For the present and the past, not much. But it can help control your future better. We, intelligent beings, don't like not being in control, do we?" He said, lying against a nearby counter.

[Ha, control my future. I don't think so.]

"You really think you don't have control over it?"

[I still can't bring the dead back to life or change the past and repair what's broken, so no. None of us can.]

"I see. Have you lost someone recently? Someone very close to you?"

Even though she felt that he wasn't that evil, she still didn't fully trust him. She could have scanned his brain to be sure, but couldn't at the moment. She began to understand what it's like not being a psychic-type pokemon, and it caused her to feel helpless, which she was hiding pretty well.

[They weren't exactly close to me, no.]

"Your trainer?"

[Well… wait, how do you know I even have one?]

"You have the behavior of a trainer's pokemon. It's sad to say, but wild pokemon are at less risk of depression than a trainer's one."

[How so?] She demanded, somehow feeling provoked.

"For many reasons. The deep relationship they develop could be broken rather easily. The difference in life spans, loneliness, physical and emotional abuse, the list goes on. A relationship between humans and pokemon can be quite intense, both for better and for worse. It's like how a heart can easily be broken or fixed, so to speak."

[...I still wonder why you saved me… And by that I mean you shouldn't have. You made a big mistake.]

"Really? How so?"

[I… I just bring pain and suffering to those around me. By saving me, you kept a walking curse alive.] Scarlet said, sounding more morose than before.

"Those are some harsh words for a pokemon such as yourself. If you hate yourself that much, then life is gonna indeed be painful and unbearable."

[Hmpf. If only you knew what you're talking about. Because of you, he will still…]

Not wanting her sad face to be seen, she hid it with the blanket.

"Why don't you talk to me about your trainer? Your master as you call him."

[He's…] She started, revealing half of her face. [He doesn't deserve me, nor does he need me.]

"I don't want to know about his needs and desires, I want to know who he actually is."

Briefly looking at him, Scarlet again looked forward into the void.

[He's… simply the best thing that has ever happened to me. Before I knew him, the threats I gave earlier were only a small part of what happened to me. I've been tortured, raped, experimented on, broken down both mentally and physically, and nearly beaten to death, just to name a few. Him entering my life was like a divine light illuminating the darkness of my soul. But sadly, no matter how strong that light is, it doesn't seem to dissipate all of that darkness. In fact, I think his light only manages to enlighten a small part of me, which is incomprehensible since he means everything to me.]

"You love him?"

[Of course, I do! I would do anything for him, even it means me dying just to protect him.]

"Does he at least love you back?"

[I… yes. He does love me.]

"And you think that taking your own life would help him?"

[I know it would make him sad and hurt him greatly, but it would only be temporary. As soon as he moves on and forgets about me, he will be able to live a normal and more peaceful life."]

"I see… and what about those who are dead? The ones you think can't be brought back?"

[Because they can?]

"No, not really."

[Don't play games with me.] She ordered him

"I'm not playing, but if people did die around you, would it really help to add on to that list?"

[Yes, especially if it's me who gets them killed.]

"You killed them?"

[...Not directly, but… their deaths were because of me. And… I broke him.]

"Who?"

[... My master.]

"What happened?"

Scarlet looked at him and hesitated for a moment.

~POVC~

As the sun was rising higher and higher into the sky, the girls were up with Max still in the tent. He was awake but didn't want to get up yet as he was staring at the ceiling. He then grabbed Jade's necklace and looked at it with a hand in the air, causing him to periodically sigh. A little while later, the zipper of the tent got pulled down and Aurora appeared from behind.

{Max? Are you planning on getting up soon?} She asked softly.

"Eager to leave?" He said.

{No. We just want to have an idea of when we will. Take your time if you need it.} She assured him.

Then, Max loudly sighed. Feeling his pain, Aurora got it and sat close to him.

{Luna told us what you two talked about yesterday. I admit that she may have been very blunt and indelicate, but I'm afraid to say that she wasn't exactly wrong.}

"Yeah. Everyone is always right, except me."

{That's not true, Max. Stop saying that.}

Then, it was Aurora's turn to sigh loudly.

{You have no idea how powerless I feel right now. I wish I could do more for you, but…}

"It's okay, Aurora. None of us can't do a single thing about it. Don't feel bad about it. It's not any of you girls' fault, it's-"

{It's not your fault either.} She cut, knowing too well what he was about to say.

"Of course it is. If I could handle multiple mega evolutions better, she would still be with us."

{You don't know that. It could have happened later that night while we were still recovering from our battles.}

"She probably would have had a better chance to survive."

{Maybe, maybe not. You did your best, Max. I-}

"Haha. 'You did your best'. The thing you say to the guy in the last place to make him feel better about himself."

{Last place?} Aurora repeated, not sure to understand his reference.

"In a race or a competition, there is always someone who finishes last. That's the one you say he did his best so that he doesn't feel any less of a failure."

{...Well, technically, the first one also did his best.}

"Yeah, but the difference is that he won."

{What about those in between?}

"In between?"

{Yes. Those who did their best without being first nor last.}

"That's even worse. They're good enough to not be last, but not good enough to be first. They're just average."

{*Sigh* You're not making any sense right now.}

"At this point, who cares?"

His pessimism was annoying her a bit, but she endured it as it wasn't intentional. He was just in pain and everything will be back to normal as soon as his grief is done.

{So, do you want to stay for a little longer?}

"*Sigh* No, we're leaving. Just give me a few more minutes."

{Alright. I'll go gather the girls and we'll be ready.}

"Cool."

{...You're strong, Max. You will get through this.} She reassured with a paw on his chest. {And if it ever becomes too much for you, we will be available any time.}

"Alright. Thanks." He said rather coldly.

With a worried face, Aurora left and went to get the girls. Roughly fifteen minutes later, Max stepped out of the tent with his backpack.

"Where's Scarlet?" Max asked, seeing everyone but her.

{She told me that she wanted to be alone for the next two days.} Luna answered.

"Well, we're leaving now, so…" He said, closing his eyes and focused.

~POVC~

[And then, he and Aurora finally appeared, but with a gallade holding them hostage.]

"I see. Those are some peculiar behaviors. The Ralts evolution line is usually a very peaceful species."

[Pff. Try telling them that. No way they- Ghaaa!] Scarlet said before feeling a rather sudden and mild pain in her head.

"Something wrong?"

[No. I just got a sudden headache, that's all. But… it's okay now.] She replied with the pain gradually fading. [Anyway…]

~POVC~

"...No response," Max told the girls after trying to reach her.

{Maybe she does want to be alone.} Bonny guessed.

"I doubt it. She would have at least told me."

{Maybe something happened to her.} Aurora pointed out. {Let's assume that she might not be at her best right now.}

"Even so, there isn't much that can overpower her. I don't really fear for her safety since she can take care of herself, but that's quite odd coming from her. *Sigh* As if we needed that."

{The best thing would be to search for her.} Luna proposed.

"I suppose. I believe that you can get us to her."

{No problem.}

"Alright. Let's-"

{M-Master?} Dusk asked, sounding a bit depressed. {I wish to go in my pokeball for now.}

"I'm… sorry Dusk, but everyone's pokeballs… got destroyed."

{It-It can't be…} Dusk said, sounding like she was about to cry again.

"I'll get you new ones, I promise," Max assured her. "Let's just go." He said, turning to follow Luna.

With her ears dropped and a few tears escaping her eyes, Dusk trailed behind with Aurora gently rubbing her back for comfort. As for May, she was just following them, absentminded. They walked for a while until Max was getting a bit impatient.

"She must have gone pretty far. We've been walking for almost an hour now."

{What's bugging me is that she seemed to have walked all the way here.} Aurora commented.

"She must have just wanted to do so," Max said a bit coldly.

They walked a bit more until they reached the wooden bridge above the waterfall.

{That's odd.} Luna said, stopping in the middle of it.

{Her scent stops here.} Aurora stated.

"And what does that mean?"

{Honestly, I don't know. She might have grown tired of walking and teleported away.}

{If she did, she must have teleported very, very far away as her scent doesn't lead anywhere else.} Luna remarked.

"So, what do we do now?" Max asked, resting his elbows on the bridge fences, looking at the horizon.

{That's a tricky question.} Luna said, pondering. {We can't track her anymore and you can't contact her via telepathy.}

{I hope she just didn't…} Bonny tried to guess.

{What?} Aurora asked.

{No, forget it. I doubt she would ever do that.}

"*Sigh* I guess we'll have to look for her the old fashion way; searching high and low while screaming her name," Max suggested, sounding bored.

{And if she's not around? It could take us all day to find her.} Aurora mentioned.

{You're not wrong, but we don't really have any other options.} Luna pointed out.

{I guess…} The lucario conceded.

{I suggest we separate into two groups, so as not to disperse ourselves too much.} Luna said. {Bonny, Dusk, and Aurora in one group, me, Max, May in the other.}

{I'm not convinced of the efficiency, but as you said, we can't really do much more.} Aurora shared.

{Okay. You guys can take the west part of the forest, and we will take the east.}

{Understood.} Aurora acknowledged, passing the bridge with Bonny and Dusk.

{Are you okay with that?} Luna asked Max softly.

Without answering, he just left behind the others, followed by May.

Sighing, Luna looked at the horizon herself with a paw on the bridge ramp.

{Scarlet… I hope you didn't do anything stupid.} She mumbled before catching up to her group before they got divided in two.

~POVC~

Inside the hermit's house, Scarlet had just finished sharing with him the events of the past forty-eight hours while mentioning a few details of her past.

"I see. I now have a better understanding of your situation." The man said.

[Good for you.] Scarlet said, demoralized.

"Though, I still don't get why you think suicide would solve your problems."

[Who said anything about solving my problems? I just didn't want to cause any more.]

"From what I understand with your relationship with Max, your death would have caused him more pain."

Knowing he was right, Scarlet looked away, briefly silent.

[Why did I have to meet the nicest human ever? He doesn't deserve this.] She said, grabbing her head.

"If you regret it that much, why don't you just erase all his memories of you? That way, he would be able to move on without any troubles."

Upon hearing that, Scarlet briefly looked at him before snuggling even more in the blanket, not answering.

"Because that's not what you really want, otherwise it would have been done already. You seem like a smart pokemon, so surely you thought of that."

[...I did… but…]

"It's too hard for you."

[Rha! Maybe I'm not as heartless as everyone thinks.] Scarlet replied impatiently.

"Everyone?"

Knowing what he meant, Scarlet grabbed her head again and shook it.

[I just don't know what to do. Everything I do seems to either make things worse or not make a difference. I just can't do anything right.]

"Or maybe you just don't have the right perspective."

[What do you mean by 'the right perspective?']

"I'll present it this way: You say that you bring pain and suffering upon others, right? Let's pretend that it's true. However, everything in this world has its ups and downs, it's all a matter of how you look at it. You bring pain, you say? Fine, but you can also bring more joy and happiness. Your master has someone who cares, loves, and believes in him, which according to you, he didn't have that chance before. And just like him, you also have friends who help you and support you and vice-versa, something you didn't even know existed before meeting him. Now tell me; are those things that make others or yourself suffer?"

[Well, it depends-"

"Just answer yes or no."

Scarlet took a moment to answer.

[...No.] She said, not happy to prove him right.

"Then it's up to you on how you choose to look at what's in front of you."

[We've had some good times, yes, but they're all outweighed by the bad times that were spent with me, especially if lives are at stake.]

"That's a way of life, Miss. You've had your bad moments, and you're going to have a lot more. You said he was 21, right? Damn, his life has only just begun, and a gardevoir can live longer than a human. You'll have to toughen yourself up a bit if you want to help him find his way in life."

[Are you implying that-]

"But you, on the other hand…" He cut. "You're not done having good moments either. Those memories that make you happy… You wouldn't forget about them, would you?"

[Are you kidding? Those memories are the only things keeping me sane and alive right now.]

"What if I told you that there is more to come? That things will get better and will be a lot more fulfilling?"

[I…]

Ever since she came here, it was the first time she got speechless. She didn't know how to retort, not even with a lie. She just looked forward and got lost in her thoughts, thinking that she may have been wrong from the very beginning.

[I… Maybe…]

"It's not always black or white."

[...But… What if someone else dies before we could have those moments? Jade… she can't live them with us... not anymore.]

"..."

[It's someone we cared for. We can't just forget about her like that.]

"Who said anything about forgetting?"

Again, Scarlet was unable to retort. She took many lives in her own life, but never really thought about how painful it could be for someone else. Sure, almost all of them were for self-defense, but maybe she was looking at things the wrong way.

[I… would like to be alone for a moment.] She said, getting up from the bed to head towards the entrance with the man letting her do so, not saying a word.

Still holding the blanket around her, Scarlet went outside, where the weather was nice but a little cold. Just as she suspected, the house was right in the middle of the forest, with no distinct road or path leading here. The only thing passing by was a nearby river, a few meters away from the house. Besides some birds and a few bug-type pokemon here and there, the place was rather empty and calm. Taking a deep breath, she walked a bit further from the house and sat under the tree that was the closest to the river. As she was looking at the water stream, she immediately got lost in her thoughts. At that moment, she was slowly rethinking the way she looked at the world around her.

[There are more good times ahead…]

Those words were resonating in her mind. Quickly, she began to feel incredibly dumb for not seeing it that way. Sure, she fought for survival and nearly died multiple times, but was gradually realizing that living in the dark past would prevent her from enjoying a brighter future now that she was with Max and the girls.

[And here I was always teasing him about how he's not that smart. Heh, looks like I'm even dumber than him.]

Then, she began to think about the man that saved her. He could have done anything to her, and yet, all he did was just save her. No ill-intentions, no selfish agenda, no lies… Come to think of it, she had seen a few humans that weren't that bad. But this one… he reminds her a lot about Max. His pragmatism, his will to help others, even though he prefers being left alone…

[I don't understand anything anymore.] She said, dropping her head on her knees. [Everyone's trying to kill you one day, and suddenly you're a precious being that must be kept alive the next day.] {For fuck's sake! This life doesn't make any fucking sense!} She shouted, grabbing her head.

As if it was attracted by her voice, a swampert popped its head from the river. Sensing she was being watched, Scarlet raised her head.

{The hell do you want?} She asked, upset.

Not answering, it only stared at her.

{If you're looking for trouble, I'm not afraid to use only my fists.} She threatened.

{...Are you doing okay?} He asked.

{Huh? Why are you concerned for my well-being?}

For a short moment, both looked at each other without speaking. Quickly, Scarlet realized how much of a jerk she was acting.

{I'm… sorry.} She said with difficulty due to her pride. {Ahem… I-I appreciate y-your concern.} She finished with even more difficulty. {Even though I didn't want to be saved.}

Without any more words, the swampert disappeared into the water.

{*Sigh* And you just had to let your pride get the better of you. Good job, Scarlet.} She mumbled, dropping her head on her knees again.

~POVC~

"This doesn't look good. We have been searching for a while now. You still haven't found her?" Max asked with May in his arms.

{If I would, I would have already told you.} Luna answered.

"Alright. No need to get all smart with me." He complained, making the zoroark look at him with an unamused expression. "*Sigh* Sorry. I didn't mean it." He apologized with very little emotion.

{If we haven't found her by the end of the day, we'll get back to the camp and try again tomorrow. Maybe she will return by then.}

"That would be nice."

Max then suddenly remembered that Luna was a night owl and was now late in the day.

"We might be approaching your bedtime, Luna."

{I will sleep after we find her.}

"Come on, Luna, be reasonable for a second. I know you mean well and really want to-"

While Max was speaking, Luna stopped and motioned him to do as well.

"What's going on?"

Not answering, Luna raised her nose higher and expanded her nostril while focusing.

{It's faint, but... I think I found her.}

"Oh, that's great. Is she far?"

{By the very little I smell, quite a bit, yes.}

"Alright. We should go tell the others."

{I don't want to lose track of her, so I'll send one of my shadow wolves to call them.}

"...Alright."

After Luna used Shadow Beast and sent one apparition to go get the others, Max followed Luna over a rather long distance. After a while, they arrived near a river, which was the continuity of the waterfall further.

{It's stronger here. We're getting close.} Luna announced.

"I wonder what she was thinking, going that far without being able to be reached."

{We'll ask her in person when we get there.}

They walked for a little bit until they spotted a wooden house in the distance, smoke coming out of the chimney. Once they were close, they saw her sitting under a tree with her head hiding behind her knees.

"Scarlet?" Max called out, kneeled in front of her.

In a jump, she raised her head. Judging by the look of her eyes, she was obviously napping.

{Master?} She said while briefly rubbing her eyes. {Is that really you?}

"Of course. Who else could it be?"

After removing her hands, she looked at him for a few seconds before standing up and went for a hug.

{I'm so glad you're here, master.} She said, strongly hugging him.

"Yeah. I'm also glad to see you in one piece. Well, for the most part." He said, noticing her bandages on her head.

{Don't worry about that. It's just a flesh wound.} She assured him.

They hugged for a moment until Max broke it.

"What happened?" Max questioned.

{Well… not much. I…}

At that same moment, the door of the house opened, revealing Scarlet's savior.

{I… just give me a minute.} Scarlet said as he was wondering who the guy was.

Walking toward him, Scarlet gave the blanket back to him.

[Thank you, for saving me. Even if I still think I didn't deserve it.]

"So, this is your trainer?" He said, looking at Max.

[Yeah. That's Max.]

"He looks awfully young. I get that he's 21, but I pictured him to look a bit older than that."

[It doesn't change who he is.]

"...Whatever you say." he conceded, not sure if he liked him. "So? What are you gonna do?"

[About what?]

"Will you tell him what happened?"

[I…] she started, looking at him in the distance, who was staring at them. [I don't know.]

"I see. Personally, I don't think it's something you should hide, but then again, I'm not here to tell you how to live your life."

[I'll... think about it.]

"Okay. Well, good luck with your future."

[Yeah. Thanks again.]

As soon as Scarlet turned, the man went inside and closed the door behind him.

"Who was he?" Max asked when Scarlet walked back, staring at the house.

{No one in particular.}

"Really?" He replied, raising an eyebrow.

{Yeah…} she added, looking at the house one last time.

She then seemed to struggle for something for a brief instant.

"Are you okay?"

{Master… I… have something to tell you.} She said, oddly looking very ashamed.

"You do? Well, I'm listening."

{I'll tell you back at camp.}

"Alright. Can you teleport us there?"

{No. I can't right now.}

"Huh? Why not?"

{You'll understand when we get there.}

"...Alright. Can you lead us back to the camp?" He asked Luna.

{Of course.} The zoroark agreed.

A little while after they left and halfway to the camp, they were rejoined by Aurora's group.

{Nice to see you again, Scarlet.} Aurora greeted.

{What happened to you?} Bonny asked upon noticing her bandages.

{She said she doesn't want to tell us right now.} Luna answered for her.

{...Okay.} the lopunny replied, a bit confused.

With everyone regrouped, it wasn't until the late afternoon when they all returned to the camp together.

{I'll be waiting in the tent.} Scarlet said, leaving them to get inside the tent.

"Well, now that we found her, you can rest now." He said to Luna after dropping May.

{Alright. Tell me everything after I wake up.}

"Sure."

With the others waiting outside, Max then entered the tent, a bit eager to know what happened.