Chapter 230: Reunion and Farewell

The Crystal Pool, a natural spring located at the peak of Oni Mountain, served as the source of the entire Kitakami river system and provided drinking water for the residents of Mossui Town. Because of this, outsiders were theoretically prohibited from entering the area.

However, given Summer's current relationship with the caretaker, the moment he made a call, the caretaker agreed without hesitation and even encouraged him to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Crystal Pool.

"So, this is the Crystal Pool?"

Towering rock walls encircled the entire pool, while the surrounding soil was an eerie pale color. From the cracks between the raised mounds, pungent, scalding vapors continuously rose into the air. Because of this, many Koffing had made their home here, feasting on the naturally abundant gases.

"Looks like Oni Mountain used to be a volcano. And at night, the Crystal Pool really does have a dreamlike beauty." Summer sighed in admiration.

Under the night sky, without the interference of sunlight, the Terastal crystals settled at the bottom of the pool shone even more brilliantly, radiating dazzling, multicolored luminescence. The scene was so surreal, it felt like stepping into a fantasy realm.

"Bo…"

Ogerpon was mesmerized as well. It had never climbed to the peak of Oni Mountain, nor had it ever witnessed the breathtaking beauty of the Crystal Pool. And with the hope of finally learning the whereabouts of the man it sought, its excitement only grew.

"Ogerpon, to uncover the truth… to find your precious companion… it's time to Terastallize."

Summer gave Ogerpon a firm nod. The night, the Crystal Pool, and the intense emotions—all the conditions needed to summon the mist were in place. Tonight, the secret of the Crystal Pool would finally be revealed!

"Gaaaooo!"

Ogerpon met his gaze with unwavering determination. Holding the Teal Mask in both hands, it solemnly placed it upon its face. At that moment, immense Terastal energy surged toward it, instantly attracting the Crystal Sprouts and Crystal Blooms that fed on the energy.

The dazzling Terastal crystals enveloped Ogerpon, and as it broke free from the shimmering encasement, the enormous mask let out a wild, echoing laugh. The essence of Ogerpon's emotions—pure euphoria—spread across the surroundings.

At the same time, a brilliant light erupted from the depths of the Crystal Pool. It was responding to Ogerpon's emotions!

"The mist is forming! Ogerpon, don't—Ogerpon?!" Summer called out, but all around him was nothing but thick, dense fog. He could no longer see anything or anyone.

"Bo-nioh!"

On the other side, Ogerpon panicked upon realizing that Summer had vanished. Fear surged in its heart once more—the fear of losing someone important. It felt that unbearable loneliness creeping in again, and it desperately didn't want to experience it ever again.

"You are… Ogerpon?"

A familiar voice drew Ogerpon's attention. The massive mask dissipated its Terastallization, falling gently back into its hands. Standing before it was a towering man—broad-shouldered, golden-haired, with a warm, kind face… though now marred by a fresh scar, giving him a slightly intimidating presence.

"It really is you. Looks like you triggered the Crystal Pool's mist… But unfortunately, this can only be a fleeting reunion." The man's voice carried deep regret.

"Gaaaooo…"

Beside the man, a crimson-scaled dragon let out a low growl, as if trying to comfort him. Its limbs were powerful, its razor-sharp claws seemingly capable of rending the very earth apart.

The creature's chest bore a large, dark, tire-like structure—the very source of its thunderous roars.

Its amber eyes exuded majesty, yet there was also a glimmer of curiosity within them. Its thick tail swayed with excitement.

The dragon's head was adorned with a feathered crest of deep blue, soft purple, and pure white, accompanied by two long tendrils of the same colors, as if declaring its dominance at the peak of power.

"Bo-nioh?!"

Ogerpon was visibly startled by the dragon's roar. Even though it had clearly lowered its volume, the sheer force behind the sound still carried an overwhelming sense of intimidation.

Noticing Ogerpon's reaction, the crimson dragon instinctively leaned its neck closer but quickly realized its mistake, pulling back in silence.

"Ogerpon… I'm sorry. I truly am. I left you all alone…" The man sighed. "Ah, you've taken such good care of the mask."

"Gao!"

Ogerpon sprinted forward and jumped up, punching the man square in the chest before bursting into tears.

Do you have any idea how much I suffered during that time?!

"Cough… Looks like you've gotten stronger." The man's pupils trembled slightly. "I know no words can truly make up for the pain I've caused you, but there's something I need to ask—Ogerpon, are you happy now?"

Ogerpon took a few steps back, wiped its tears away, and then beamed with a bright smile.

Yes, I'm happy!

Everyone in the Sunset Forest was kind and welcoming. Every day was filled with joy. And most importantly, Ogerpon had met someone just as important as him.

It was because of him that Ogerpon had escaped the abyss of loneliness.

Every moment spent with him was full of excitement and surprises, and he treated Ogerpon with kindness beyond measure.

"…I see." The man's expression softened with relief. Then, in a quieter voice, he asked, "So… this important person of yours… is he a man or a woman?"

"Bo!"

Ogerpon raised its tiny hand high. A man—a handsome man!

"…What?!" The man's mouth twitched, an odd sense of unease creeping over him. Why did this feel like a father losing his daughter to some random guy? "A brat, huh? No… I suppose I have no right to complain, given how unfit I've been as a guardian…"

He let out a deep sigh before kneeling down and gently patting Ogerpon's head.

"Ogerpon… may all your days be filled with health, happiness, and boundless energy—my dear daughter."

Then, with a teasing grin, he added, "Oh, and one more thing—if that guy ever dares to treat you poorly, no matter the distance—across space, time, or even different worlds—I will hunt him down."

"And to that unseen young man… thank you. From the bottom of my heart."

"Gaaaooo…"

The crimson dragon extended its claws and plucked a feather from its crest, infusing it with a brilliant, warm energy. Then, it knelt on one leg and carefully handed the feather to Ogerpon.

"Heh, if Koraidon's giving you a gift, then I can't just sit back and be stingy." The man took out a pink Terastal crystal and placed it in Ogerpon's free hand.

"Ogerpon, you should be able to use this now. This crystal carries my emotions… It is love. May it aid you on your journey ahead."

The figures of the man and the crimson dragon slowly blurred, fading into the mist.

With a gentle smile, the man bid farewell.

If this imperfect fatherly love can protect you, then I have no regrets.

Ogerpon held back its tears and returned his smile.

Goodbye, my beloved father. I promise—I will live a happy life!

"You are…? I didn't expect to meet again under these circumstances, Summer… Hmm, this scent… I see. So this time, it's Kitakami?"

Before him stood an elderly man, full of vitality despite his age. His long, waterfall-like white beard complemented his sharp, piercing eyes. Dressed in a robe embroidered with ancient patterns, he exuded an aura of authority.

"Who are you?" Summer asked in confusion. He had never seen this old man before.

"Ho… is that so? My name is Dunn. Or perhaps… you may know me better as the Dragon Emperor, Howard."

(End of Chapter)