Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"This is Ult," Roy said, placing his hand on the shoulder of the smaller boy standing in front of Liko. 

Roy moved his body toward Ult to introduce him. The boy's gaze wasn't directed at Roy, however, but at Liko. His amber eyes had a blank expression, scrutinizing the person before him. Liko's posture straightened from the look in his eyes, but she offered a polite and nervous smile nonetheless. 

“I met him in Kalos while I was training.” 

When Roy finished his explanation, the boy's eyes widened as if he realized the attention from the girl he was receiving. He let out a small gasp and abruptly turned away from Liko. But as his body was turned to the side, he still glanced briefly at the girl, then avoided eye contact again. His shoulders were slightly raised and his body language seemed stiff. He frowned, his eyebrows furrowed. The boy didn't really know how to handle a girl's attention, let alone interact with her.

"Hey..."

He seemed nervous. He turned his head further away, and Ult could only glance over at her briefly. Liko was confused by his behavior, but she could understand it. She was also nervous when meeting new people, so she put a smile on her face to somehow calm his nerves. She wanted him to be comfortable, but also to show her gratitude.

Her face wore a happy expression, and she spoke with a grateful voice. In contrast to Ult's, her body language was open; her shoulders were lowered, and she was relaxed. She now knew that Roy and Ult knew each other from Kalos, and she was happy to meet someone who had accompanied Roy on his journey.

"Mr. Ult, thank you for saving Meowscarada earlier," Liko said in a polite voice, and she turned her head to look at her Pokémon. Her gaze met that of her Pokémon, and the cat Pokémon had Hattrem in her arms. The small Pokémon in her arms looked over at Ult with a smile. Her gaze rested calmly on the boy, and the smaller trainer could see the gratitude in her eyes. But even so, hairs stood on end, and he suppressed another reaction. His body language didn't change, but Ult had the feeling that Hattrem was reading him like an open book, and he didn't like that at all.

When Liko finished her sentence, Meowscarada raised her arm and showed her paw to Ult. The Pokemon expressed her gratitude in return, and her body language and facial expressions made this clear. Liko turned her head back to the trainer, and her calm gaze rested on Ult, but even then he could see the gratitude and other emotions in her eyes that bored into Ult. When Ult looked over at her, he could see so much emotion in her blue eyes that he almost got lost in it, but as quickly as it had started, it stopped, and Ult put his hands on his hips and turned his head to the side to avoid Liko's gaze. But a small flush formed on his cheeks, caused by what Liko had said.

"Wasn't anything special," Ult replied to Liko, his gaze flickering briefly to the girl before closing his eyes again. Roy, who saw the interaction and the reaction, was silent. The smile had disappeared from his face, and he just stared puzzled at the other boy. He didn't know him like that at all, and the trainer was confused by the sight before him. Cap, who was on Roy's shoulder, glanced at the trainer with a barely noticeable tilt of its head. 

"And you can drop the "Mr." just "Ult " is fine."

When Roy heard this, his magenta eyes narrowed slightly, and he could feel something tightening in his chest. It felt like a weight had suddenly appeared, which made him subconsciously clench his hands into fists. You could see the tightening of his facial muscles, and Pikachu turned its head toward Roy. It tilted its head in confusion for a second before its eyes widened and it looked forward at the two trainers. Out of the corner of his eye, Roy could see Cap's mouth turning up, and he frowned at the sight. The Pokemon said nothing, but it seemed amused.

While Ult was saying this, Liko took a step forward, over Ult, and placed her hand over her chest, over her heart. Her head was upright, and she smiled at him with a soft look. Seeing her like that made something freeze in Roy, and he looked over at Ult. Even though he had turned his body away, his gaze lingered on the other boy's, searching for... something. Liko opened her mouth to introduce herself.

"My name is Liko. I used to travel with Roy," she began to explain, her gaze flickering briefly over to Roy before her attention returned to Ult, and Roy shifted his weight, subtly angling himself closer to her and away from the other boy. 

"Nice to meet you." said Liko, Her lips curved upward, and her eyes crinkled at the corners. Her smile was a gentle curve, softening her features. As she smiled at the other boy, Roy felt a twinge of something he couldn't quite name. 

Roy didn't know the feeling. It was unfamiliar, but he could still feel it spreading from his chest throughout his body, like poison. It was slow and agonizing, and he noticed that he himself wasn't feeling any positive emotions; instead, it changed into a fire that went right down to his bones, and it did something inside him. He watched his friends, and his fists grew tighter and tighter. His knuckles were white from the pressure, and suddenly Hattrem looked at him with wide eyes. Her expression was surprised, and her mouth had taken on an "O" shape as she looked at him. Meowscarada also noticed that something was different, and her gaze darted to Hattrem for a millisecond before she looked at Roy. 

When she saw Roy, she immediately knew what was going on, and her eyes showed understanding. But as quickly as she had shown that, she turned back to Ult and just watched him, her expression now blank but Roy he could see her mouth twitching upwards, in a barely concealed smile. 

Liko hadn't noticed any of this and was still looking at Ult.

"S-Sure. Guess you're a friend of a friend..." Ult said, but he stuttered at first, and Roy caught on immediately. The smaller boy turned his body even further away and placed his hands behind his head. Roy could only see his back, no longer his facial expressions, and it... bothered him. He felt restless, and the strange feeling went to his core, to his soul.

Something felt heavy in his chest, and he opened his mouth. Words were already coming out of his mouth before he'd even thought about it.

"What's with you, Ult? You're acting weird." He raised an eyebrow as he asked the question. His voice was curious but suspicious, and the Pokémon all picked up on it immediately. Roy himself moved his body toward Ult, but still he couldn't see the trainer's face, and that didn't feel right. Roy didn't know how he felt, let alone why he reacted the way he did in Liko's presence. Everything about how he behaved around Liko was wrong for him. In the back of his mind, Roy could hear whispers of doubt that he tried to ignore, and he pushed the feeling of dread away.

Liko took another step back and looked over at Roy. Something about his voice and body language was different, but Liko couldn't put her finger on it. She didn't really know what to do, or if something had happened. Nonetheless, she caught a glimpse of something in his eyes, a spark of emotion he seemed to be trying to suppress. He, too, seemed stiff, and his body language was different than usual. The girl looked at him but said nothing.

"Shut it! Ain't nothing up with me!" Ult crossed his arms in front of his chest and turned his back to Liko. She found the reaction odd and looked at her Pokémon, but they just shrugged and were just as confused. Pikachu watched everything, and Liko saw that Cap had a knowing glint in its eyes. But even so, it showed no other reaction.

“Right, Sableye?” He called out his Pokémon's name, but got no answer. Ult's eyes opened and he twisted his body around, searching for the Pokémon. Roy and Liko both looked at each other, and Liko could see Roy's shoulders rising and falling, as if he had no idea where the Pokémon could be. Liko was starting to worry, as she had experienced it herself when Terapagos kept disappearing. Yes, it was nostalgic, but she definitely didn't need to go through that again. Meowscarada and Hattrem watched everything, but did nothing.

"Huh? Sableye?!” Ult's voice rose, and Liko could hear a hint of concern in his voice. Liko's eyes noticed that Ult's eyes were wide and the guarded look was no longer completely there. There was a crack that showed his true emotions behind the guarded look, but after turning his small body toward Liko and looking behind it, he could see his Pokémon and his body relaxed again, though there was still a questionable look in his expression.

“Sableye?”

The small Pokémon was with Terapagos, and its gaze was fixed on Liko's Pokémon. Liko could see Terapagos becoming nervous at the look it was receiving, and when Sableye took a step toward it, Terapagos took a step back. Lucario stood a little further away, but still close to the two Pokémon. Its gaze was locked on both of theirs, yet it just watched and did nothing.

Suddenly, Sableye lunged at Terapagos and tried to catch it in its arms. Seeing this, Terapagos began to scream, and its body twisted away from Sableye. Liko heard her Pokémon's cry for help and immediately ran to the Pokémon. Even Lucario was in a walking stance, ready to intervene. Ult ran with Liko to her Pokémon, and they each took their Pokémon into their arms.

“That isn't Food!” 

The trainers yelled to Sableye and Liko noticed how Terapagos relaxed in her arms and let out a sigh. The Pokémon's body snuggled against Liko's and she had to smile. Meowscarada and Hattrem appeared next to her. Both looked worriedly at Terapagos and then with a stern look at Sableye. But the Pokémon didn't seem to care and moved its body in Ult's arms. It wriggled back and forth as if it didn't like being in its trainer's arms at all. Roy watched this with a sigh. He should have known that something like this could happen.

After the situation calmed down, Liko looked at Lucario and then at Sableye. The girl remembered the battle with the two Pokémon and had a question she wanted to ask.

“Hey, that thing that Lucario and Sableye did earlier…” Liko trailed off and she saw the mentioned Pokémon looking at her. Their trainers also looked surprised for a moment when she saw their eyes widen. But as quickly as the moment came, it was over and the boys' demeanor suddenly changed.

Their faces lit up with an infectious enthusiasm, eyes sparkling like diamonds and burning with a passion brighter than the sun as they grinned at each for a moment before looking at the girl in front of them.

“That was mega Evolution!” 

The boys raised their arms and Liko could see that around their wrists was a bracelet with a Keystone. The bracelets had a pattern associated with mega evolution. The sunlight fell on the bracelets, illuminating them. It looked beautiful, the way it shone making it seem golden. The Keystone in each one pulsed with energy, its crystalline structure refracting light in a mesmerizing display of color and power, and Liko was in awe when she saw it. 

It was fascinating to see something like that.

The rugged terrain stretched out before the group, ancient stone walls crumbling into the sand, rocks jutting out like weathered sentinels. Ult was walking in front of the group. Behind him was Roy with his Crocalor at his side. A little further behind were Liko and Roy's Lucario at her side. Last but not least was Meowscarada with Hattrem in her arms. You could hear the sand crunching beneath their feet and they walked forward in silence. But suddenly Liko broke the silence to ask a question.

“Hey, Ult… why were you all the way out here, anyway? Just a coincidence?” Liko asked. Confusion was audible in her voice, and she tilted her head. At the question, the group stopped, and Ult had bent his arms as he asked. Although Liko couldn't see his face, she thought Ult had just realized something. When Roy stopped, he crossed his arms in front of his chest but didn't say anything. From behind, Liko saw that his shoulders were slightly raised and... tense, which wasn't normal.

“Oh, right! I almost forgot…” Ult responded to Liko's statement. She heard his voice getting quieter the longer he spoke. He trailed off and suddenly, he abruptly turned around and raised his arm to point at Roy. His face was twisted in a scowl, eyes blazing with anger and betrayal, the eyebrows furrowed in a deep crease. Liko could see a mix of fury and hurt flashed across Ult’s face, his eyes narrowed into slits as his mouth curled into a snarl.

“Roy! How dare you stoop to leaving me behind last time?” A sharp, biting tone cut through the air, the words laced with anger and hurt. The Pokémon perked up hearing the words and tone of the voice. Liko herself felt pity for the boy in front. She didn't know Roy like that. But she saw from the back that Roy put one of arms behind his neck in an apologetic gesture. 

“Oh, sorry…” 

The words were apologetic, but Liko could hear a hint of exasperation underlying beneath the tone. Her own eyebrows rose at the realization. The trainer observed as Roy cast his head downwards, avoiding eye contact with Ult and she felt the tension in the air grew thicker. But as soon as he said those words, his head shot up again and his body language tensed. 

“Wait, does this mean you've been following me?!” The shock was palpable in his voice, but beneath it, a tone of disbelief seethed. Liko's posture tensed and she could see from the corner of her eye that Lucario perked up at those words. It stilled and watched the boy in front with narrowed eyes. Its paws were clenched into fists and yet… Liko knew it wasn't exactly angry, more like annoyed. Her blue eyes drifted towards and focused on the green haired trainer. His amber eyes widened at the question and his body paused at the statement. It seemed as if time stood still for a few seconds. 

A confused “Wuh…?” left his mouth, before he could even manage to think properly. A bewildered expression was on his face and Liko’s own confusion grew at the reaction. 

“´course not, but…” he trailed off and Liko tilted her head at the sentence. A puzzled expression appeared on her face and she knew that Roy shared the sentiment… probably. Even Lucario and her other Pokémon had a puzzled expression on their faces. 

"But..?" Said Roy as the word hung in the air. The tone was a flat, unimpressed sound, his voice daring the other person to continue.

Hearing the response of Roy, Ult turned his body towards the group. He stood with his feet shoulder width apart and his amber eyes sparkled with determination. The trainer grinned as he opened his mouth and announced “The black Rayqaza… belongs to me!”. 

Liko herself was surprised at the proclamation. She knew that Roy himself wanted to catch the Pokémon as well. Heck, they even worked with it together and traveled with it. But now Ult seems to have the same goal as Roy. She wondered why that was the case. Did he meet it as well or…? 

“Huh? The black Rayquaza?” she wondered out loud and she saw as Roy perked up at her response. His shoulders stiffened and she swore she heard him sigh. Lucario on her side was face palming at the question, as if it knew what was going to happen now. Ult heard her response and his face turned to her. She saw him grin at her and she had a hunch on what was going to happen, based on the sparkle in his amber eyes. But she had to admit, she was curious herself. 

“Well now! I am ever so glad you asked.” he said to her and Liko's mouth twitched upwards at the sight before her. He was basically glowing as his face brightened and stood proudly. His hands were on his waist as the smaller trainer opened his mouth as he began to explain. 

“Indeed… to me, It's the mega-strongest of the strongest…” he began his explanation and his eyes closed. It seemed like he was remembering something and his chin tilted upwards, as if he wanted to proudly show something. But as soon as he began his explanation, Roy turned around and he walked quickly towards Liko and took her wrist in his hand. He wrapped his fingers around her wrist, his grip was firm but not ungentle. Liko felt the warmth of the hand enveloping her wrist and his fingers applying gentle pressure. she felt a jolt of surprise at the sudden gesture and it felt electrifying, like a spark sent through her skin. Suddenly all her senses were focused on the touch and her breath hitched slightly, her face suddenly warm.

Without saying anything, he gently pulled her away and they both walked past Ult. She noticed the Pokémon silently following her, but she felt a tingling sensation that sent a shiver down her neck. It was as if she was being seen and she felt her face get even hotter, her hand started to sweat and suddenly she felt very warm. She knew if she opened her mouth, she wouldn't be able to say anything without stammering. Still, she could have sworn that Cap's shoulders shook with suppressed laughter and she knew it was amusement at something, but she didn't know what.

When she saw that, she seemed to be herself again, and she opened her mouth. She knew that doing something like that, and doing it to Ult, wasn't nice. That wasn't something you were supposed to do, and she thought Roy knew that. Still, the uncertainty was there, and she looked at Roy with her eyes. She asked him in a hesitant voice.

“Huh? Should we really…?” 

she asked in her voice and she trailed off. But after she asked the question, she noticed his grip tighten. Whether he did it consciously or subconsciously, she didn't know. His head was held high and gaze to the front. Her voice was uncertain and quiet, but still she knew that Roy heard her and he didn't even turn his head towards her before he answered her. 

“He gets annoying when he's all fired up.” his voice dripped with exasperation and Liko saw that his back was rigid. Their feet thudded against the ground and Liko knew that he was walking faster than usual. She could hear the Pokémon behind her as well, adjusting to the speed of their walking. Despite everything, Liko couldn't see the expression Roy was making. He didn't look at her, instead just walking ahead and away from the boy explaining in the distance. Ult's voice grew quieter the further they walked away and Liko felt guilty for doing so. 

“and we can´t exactly let him get all tangled up in our journey.” Roy hastily added this, but it was as if the words had just popped into his head. Liko understood, though; with everything that had happened, it was a matter that only concerned the Rising Volt Tacklers, not anyone else. Out of the corner of her eye, Liko could see the Pokémon nodding. They all knew what they were about to do could be dangerous, and no one should get hurt. She opened her mouth to agree.

“Right. we need to get back the truth of the Rising Volt Tacklers on our own” she gave a curt nod, and her expression turned serious. She felt Roy's grip loosened at her reply; it was no longer as firm as before, but more gentle, like a feather-light touch where Liko could have pulled her arm towards herself at any time. She had no intention of letting go though, so she let it happen. Her face was still warm, but now there was a soft smile on her face, which made her expression look relaxed and soft. Her blue eyes looked at her wrist, where Roy's hand was, and her eyes shone and lit up at the sight. It didn't feel unfamiliar, but... right. Something in her chest lightened and her heart skipped a beat. The voice behind them was blocked out by Liko, as her focus was only on what was in front of her and the touch. Lucario saw to the wrist and the hand and looked at its trainer in confusion. Meowscarada and Hattrem looked at each other and smiled with a knowing glint in their eyes.

Unknown to the group behind Roy, he had a satisfied smile on his face. A slight blush was visible on his cheeks, and his heart was pounding in his chest, as if he'd just run a long distance. His eyes were forward, but his focus was on the touch where he touched Liko's wrist. Beneath his hand, he could feel Liko's pulse and warmth, how alive she was, and how smooth her skin was. His senses were tuned into everything about her. It felt like he was connected to her, and the feeling was... right. A pleasant feeling that made the thoughts that had been complaining earlier fade away, and a pleasant and familiar feeling spread through his body. The touch felt right, and something in his soul calmed. His thoughts quieted in his head, and he had to smile at it all. He wouldn't give up the connection he had with Liko, nor would he give it to anyone else. It was for him... no, for both of them.

The group disappeared behind a corner of the stone wall. They said nothing, but they didn't need to, because they were happy to be together again, in the silence that felt right.

“Mega evolution is truly-!” Ult continued talking and he opened his eyes to look ahead again, but there was no one in front of him, only the rocky surroundings where there was nothing but silence. At the sight that no one was present anymore, his eyes widened and he turned his head to the side, looking for the group. To his shock, he realized that no one was around except his partner Pokémon, Sableye. It stared at its trainer with wide eyes, yet Ult still twisted its body from side to side. He searched the area nearby but found nothing.

“Huh? they are gone!” He said in shock, eyes blazing with anger and betrayal, their eyebrows furrowed in a deep crease. His mouth twisting into a snarl as he felt a pang of hurt and anger in his chest once again. His hands were balled into fists, the arms trembling with restrained fury, amber eyes blazing with a fierce intensity. Somehow, the group disappeared again and he was alone, again.

“Those… jerks….” Those words were said in a low voice, an angry expression appeared as the words spat out of his mouth. Ult couldn't believe that something like this happened again, because he thought the girl was… nice. Sincere, but he guessed that he was wrong, that she was just like him. 

“They left me behind!” he cried out, as if the words were a painful reminder of the past. The words were echoing throughout the terrain, but no response was heard whatsoever. His voice was a mixture of betrayal and fury as he clenched his fists until the knuckles were white from the pressure. Suddenly he looked up into the sky, which revealed a blue, endless expanse before him. At that sight, he made a decision.

He would follow the two people and find out what they were hiding from him.

Chapter Text

The sound of something stirring could be heard through the air, the gentle clinking of a whisk against the side of a bowl as the mixture was blended together. A young boy with dark green hair held a bowl in his hand, his fingers deftly whisking the pancake batter into a smooth, creamy consistency. 

Beside him, a young girl, similar to his age, sat beside him and smiled at the sight, her eyes shining with anticipation as she watched the batter come together. Her gaze flicked from the bowl to the boy's face, and she couldn't help but giggle at the concentration etched on his features as he worked the mixture. 

Liko noticed that the dough's consistency wasn't quite creamy enough, so she added another bottle of milk to the bowl, carefully measuring out the amount to avoid over-saturating the mixture. She poured it in slowly, watching as the liquid blended seamlessly into the batter, and the texture began to transform before her eyes. Not too much, she thought to herself, her brow furrowed in concentration, so the dough wouldn't be ruined. The mixture needed to be just right, or the pancakes would be too dense or too soggy.

Above the couple, the stars shone brightly in the night sky. The fire in front of them crackled and spat, illuminating the surroundings with a warm, orange glow that cast flickering shadows on the trees around them. The sound of the flames mingled with the rustling of leaves and the distant sounds of Pokémon, creating a soothing background melody that seemed to match the rhythm of Ult's whisk as he stirred the batter. The atmosphere was peaceful, and Liko felt a sense of contentment wash over her as she saw that Ult worked on the pancakes, the gentle warmth of the fire and the stars above her creating a sense of comfort.

“That's it! you're doing great!” 

Liko said to the boy and smiled at him, her eyes sparkling with warmth and friendliness. Her face was illuminated by the light of the fire, the golden flames dancing across her features and highlighting her bright smile. But it wasn't just the firelight that lit up her face— it was also the happiness she felt, a sense of joy and contentment that radiated from her very being. But as she gazed at the boy beside her, she noticed that he was avoiding eye contact, his gaze fixed on the pancake batter as he stirred it with a whisk. And then she swore she saw a small blush appear on his cheeks, a faint pink hue that seemed to deepen as she watched him.

But Liko didn't think anything of it, attributing it to the warmth of the fire or the boy's concentration on the pancakes. Instead, she felt a gentle nudge against her side, and her Pokémon, Meowscarada, came closer and closer, its soft fur brushing against her body. Meowscarada seemed to sense Liko's happiness and was drawn to it, her eyes fixed on her trainer before looking at the boy with suspicion. As she reached Liko's side, she abruptly pushed Ult away with her elbow, and then protectively hugged Liko. 

Meowscarada's eyes gleamed with a fierce protectiveness as she wrapped herself around Liko, her body tense and alert. She let out a soft growl, as if warning anyone who might come too close to her trainer. But despite her tough exterior, Meowscarada's hug was gentle, her claws carefully retracted as she nuzzled Liko's side.

It was a delicate balance of protection and affection, Meowscarada's instincts as a sister and companion expertly balanced with her fierce loyalty. Yet Liko almost spilled the bottle of milk she held in her hands, her fingers trembling as Meowscarada's tight hug caught her off guard. Meowscarada's eyes, however, were fixed intently on Ult, a low growl rumbling in her throat as she positioned herself protectively between Liko and the other person. Her gaze was piercing, a warning glare that seemed to say ‘don't come any closer.’ 

Liko's eyes widened in alarm as she felt Meowscarada's tension, her own voice rising and alarmed. “Careful Meowscarada! You'll make me spill it!” She tried to calm Meowscarada down, but her own nerves were frayed, her heart racing with a mix of surprise and concern.

Ult couldn't look at the two of them, his eyes deliberately avoiding Liko and Meowscarada as he focused on the bowl in front of him. His body stiffened, a subtle tension radiating from his shoulders to his fingertips as he continued to mix the batter. A bead of sweat formed on his skin, tracing a slow path down his forehead as he worked, his movements precise but slightly jerky. Despite the awkwardness, he persisted in making the batter for the pancakes, his hands moving mechanically as he tried to compose himself. The silence between them grew thicker, the only sound the soft scrape of the whisk against the bowl and Meowscarada's intense, warning stare directed at the young trainer. 

After a few seconds, Meowscarada let go of the hug and Liko could finally close the bottle of milk and put it away, relief washing over her. When she did that, she turned towards Ult and she noticed that he was turning his body towards her as well, their eyes meeting in a fleeting moment. When both of their eyes met, Ult's face flushed once again, a deep pink hue spreading across his cheeks, and he quickly gave her the bowl of pancake batter, his hands moving hastily as if he was trying to distract himself from the intensity of the moment. Liko nodded at him as a thank you and moved her arms to take the bowl from him.

The moment she wanted to grab the bowl, their fingers brushed against each other, a spark of electricity running through both of them. Liko didn't seem to notice, but Ult visibly shivered at the sensation, his eyes darting away from hers as if he was trying to hide his reaction. But what none of them noticed was a figure staying further away from the group, observing them with an intensity that was almost palpable. Magenta eyes watched the interaction without any comment, but the eyes narrowed at the sight, a hint of displeasure flickering across the face.

A weird burning sensation built in Roy's gut, spreading like fire across his body, making his skin prickle with discomfort. He clenched his hands into fists, his fingers curling tightly as he noticed the way both Liko and Ult acted towards each other. The boy knew that Liko did all of it out of kindness, her heart full of warmth and generosity, but Roy didn't know Ult like that. The way he acted around Liko made something in Roy's stomach swell, his heart clenching in a way that was both familiar and uncomfortable. It was something he felt before, but was it jealousy? He wasn't sure himself, the emotion swirling in his chest like a stormy sea. All Roy knew was that he definitely didn't like the way Ult acted around Liko, a possessive feeling rising up in him like a challenge.

But instead of going to them, he stood there and watched them, his eyes fixed on the scene unfolding before him. His limbs felt heavy, as if rooted to the spot, and he didn't want to interrupt them, the thought of breaking the fragile moment between Liko and Ult making him hesitant. It would be rude to do so, and yet... he couldn't bring himself to look away, his gaze drawn to the quiet intimacy of the moment. 

Back to the group, Liko held the bowl in her arms, cradling it like a precious treasure, and both of the trainers stared at the fire in front of them, its warm flames dancing across their faces. The fire crackled and spat, giving them warmth and casting flickering shadows on the terrain around them. A slight breeze rustled through the trees, and Liko shivered at the gentle caress of the wind on her skin. Even so, she felt a warm comfort behind her, Meowscarada's presence a soothing balm to the chilly sensation, and she smiled slightly, her eyes never leaving the flames.

As she gazed into the fire, her thoughts wandered, and she found herself wondering more about Ult, the quiet trainer who had joined their group. He was traveling with them now, and he had told them that he wanted the black Rayquaza as well, just like Roy. Liko's curiosity was piqued, and she found herself wanting to know more about Ult's motivations, his story, and what drove him to pursue the legendary Pokémon. She turned her head slightly, glancing at Ult out of the corner of her eye, but his face was inscrutable, his eyes fixed on the flames as if lost in thought.

"So Ult… Why do you want to befriend the black Rayquaza?" Liko asked, her voice gentle but curious, her eyes fixed on Ult's profile as she waited for his response. The question seemed to hang in the air, the only sound the soft crackling of the fire and the distant rustling of the leaves in the trees above them. The wind whispered through the branches, causing the leaves to softly shimmer and dance in the flickering firelight. 

Ult's gaze remained fixed on the flames, his expression unreadable, and Liko wondered what thoughts were running through his mind, what secrets he might be hiding behind his calm exterior. His eyes seemed to bore into the fire, his pupils reflecting the dancing flames like dark, still water. But before she opened her mouth again, Liko heard a response, Ult's voice low and matter-of-fact. 

“‘Cause I wanna be the mega-strongest, of course.” The words were simple, but they held a depth of conviction that made Liko's eyes narrow slightly, her curiosity piqued by the intensity behind them. “The strongest?” she repeated, her voice thoughtful, the question hanging in the air like a challenge.

The fire crackled and spat, casting flickering shadows on Ult's face as he gazed into the flames. For a moment, the only sound was the soft popping of the firewood, and Liko wondered if Ult would elaborate on his answer.

But instead of explaining, Ult's hand moved to his bag, his fingers rummaging through the contents before emerging with a dusk ball. The dark, sleek Pokéball glinted in the firelight, its surface reflecting the dancing flames like a tiny mirror. Ult turned it over in his hand, his fingers closing around it with a familiar confidence, as if he had held it countless times before.

His eyes seemed to gleam with a quiet determination, and Liko sensed that he was preparing for something, though she wasn't quite sure what. The dusk ball seemed to be a tangible representation of his resolve, a symbol of his quest to become the strongest.

“I’ve gotta get stronger…” Ult's voice trailed off, his words hanging in the air like a promise. “And win the approval of…” He paused, his eyes glancing somewhere else for a brief moment, and Liko swore that saw a flash of determination and something else in his gaze. Liko gasped, her eyes widening in surprise as she sensed that Ult was about to reveal something important, something personal. 

Noticing the reaction from the girl, as her mouth was hanging open and looking at him in interest and awe, Ult's face grew hotter, sweat forming on his forehead like tiny beads of moisture. He felt Liko's intense stare like a weight on his skin, making him squirm in discomfort. His one eye twitched, a small, involuntary movement that betrayed his growing unease. He looked away, his gaze drifting back to the flames as if seeking comfort in their warmth. The fire crackled and spat, casting flickering shadows on his face, and Liko wondered what secrets he was hiding, what drove him to seek strength and approval with such desperation. The air seemed to vibrate with tension, and Liko felt like she was on the verge of uncovering something important about Ult.

“I see. you've got your reasons for wanting to be stronger, huh?” Liko responded, her voice gentle, but her words seemed to pierce Ult's fragile composure. He started to squirm and got uncomfortable, his face growing even hotter as he felt her gaze on him, the scrutiny making him feel exposed and vulnerable. His face was turned away, and he put his dusk ball away, the movement abrupt and jerky, as if he was trying to distance himself from the conversation and the emotions that were rising to the surface. The dusk ball disappeared into his bag, and Ult's hands lingered on the fabric, his fingers clenching into fists as he struggled to regain his composure.

When he did that, he stood up abruptly, his movements swift and decisive. He yelled, his voice loud and raw, and Liko's eyes widened in surprise. Ult's eyes were wide, his face twisted in a mixture of frustration and desperation. He turned and ran towards a nearby tree, his long strides eating up the distance. He climbed it up, his hands and feet finding holds in the bark with ease.

Liko yelped in surprise when she heard him yell out loud, and she threw the bowl with the pancake batter in a reflexive movement. But before it could hit the ground, Meowscarada, her quick-reflexed Pokémon, caught the bowl with a soft mew, saving the batter from spilling. Liko heard a relieved sigh from her Pokémon, but the young girl was shocked at the turn of events. She stared at the tree, her eyes fixed on Ult's retreating figure, wondering what had just triggered his outburst.

Liko saw as his figure climbed almost to the top of the tree, the branches creaking softly under his weight, and he sat on a sturdy branch, his back against the trunk. He gazed out into the distance, his face still twisted in a mixture of emotions. “Huh?! What's wrong?” Liko called out to him, her voice rising above the rustling of the leaves, her concern and curiosity evident in her tone. 

She took a step forward, her eyes fixed on Ult's figure, wondering what had triggered his sudden outburst and climbed up the tree. A flutter of panic rose in her chest as she watched him leave her abruptly, and she wondered if it was something she had said or done that had driven him away. Her mind racing with possibilities, Liko hesitated for a moment, unsure whether to follow him or give him space.

“Nothing’s wrong!” Ult's voice came down from the tree, his tone a little too loud, a little too forceful, as if he was trying to convince himself as much as Liko. The branches creaked softly as he shifted his position, his face still turned away from her, his profile silhouetted against the dark canvas of the night sky. Liko's concern deepened, her ears tuning in to the subtle undertones of Ult's voice, and she sensed that he was hiding something, that his denial was more than a little unconvincing.

The bare branches of the tree seemed to stretch out like skeletal fingers, a stark silhouette against the night sky, the stars twinkling like diamonds scattered across the velvet expanse. The darkness beyond the fire's warm glow seemed to press in around them, making Ult's isolation feel even more pronounced. Liko felt a pang of worry, wondering what had driven him to retreat to the tree, and whether she should try to follow him or give him space. The fire crackled and spat, casting flickering shadows on the ground, and Liko's eyes remained fixed on Ult's figure, her heart aching with a mixture of curiosity and concern.

“Let him be.” 

Suddenly, Liko heard a familiar voice behind her, one belonging to Roy.

The girl could hear footsteps behind her, as Roy came closer and closer, the sound of his boots crunching on the ground growing louder with each step. The rustling of leaves and snapping of twigs beneath his feet served as a gentle announcement of his approach. Until he was finally standing beside her, and he put his hands on his hips. 

Her blue eyes flicked over to Roy, and she saw him also looking up at Ult, but instead of concern in his eyes, they were narrowed and... he seemed to be thinking about something. Liko could see an emotion in his magenta eyes that she hadn't seen before— a calculating intensity, a deep thoughtfulness that seemed to be weighing options and considering possibilities.

This surprised her, but she didn't mention it. Something inside her stopped her, a sense that Roy's expression was a private thing, not meant to be acknowledged or commented on.

Instead, she waited silently, wondering what Roy would say or do next. The silence between them stretched out, punctuated only by the distant sounds of the night and the soft creaking of the tree branches under Ult's weight.

Roy's gaze remained fixed on Ult, his eyes never leaving the other boy's figure as he stood there, lost in thought. Liko glanced up at Ult as well, her eyes drawn to his solitary figure perched high up in the tree, and she felt a pang of concern for him, wondering what was going on in his mind. The moment hung suspended, a fragile balance of emotions and unspoken thoughts, as the three of them stood there, each lost in their own world.

But as long as the moment stretched on, it was interrupted by the sound of wood being placed on the ground by Lucario.

The golden Pokémon held an armful of branches and logs, its eyes shining with a sense of accomplishment as it dropped its load beside the fire pit.

By the sound, Liko's and Roy's heads turned towards the noise, and the girl had to smile at the sight. Lucario stood proudly, its chest puffed out slightly, as if pleased with itself for gathering the firewood.

Liko was grateful that both Lucario and Roy were getting wood for the fire, so they could make the food and keep the flame burning through the night. The warmth and light of the fire seemed like a comforting presence, and Liko felt a sense of relief wash over her as she watched all their Pokémon together. 

Terapagos was walking around, its little feet padding softly on the ground, and looked at the fire for a brief moment before its gaze drifted to Meowscarada.

The cat Pokémon noticed the stare it was receiving and smiled at the little Pokémon, its whiskers twitching with amusement. Seeing that expression, Terapagos cooed and then looked up at the stars, its eyes shining with wonder.

The night sky was a canvas of twinkling lights, and Liko noticed that Terapagos had a certain expression on its face as it gazed up at the stars. It almost reminded her of nostalgia, as if Pagogo had seen this same sight before and was remembering it now.

But the trainer herself felt the same, being with their Pokémon and with Roy once again. The sense of familiarity and companionship was comforting, and Liko felt a sense of peace wash over her as she watched all of their Pokémon interact. The moment was a reminder of the bond they shared, and the memories they had made together.

It felt almost like home again. 

The sound of fire could be heard in the quiet of the night, the gentle crackling and popping of the flames a soothing accompaniment to the peaceful atmosphere.

Above the group, the stars twinkled and shone in the night sky. There were many of them... no, thousands of them, each one a tiny pinprick of light in the vast expanse of darkness. The stars seemed to stretch on forever, a breathtaking display of celestial beauty that filled the night sky with wonder.

Liko was sitting in front of the fire, as it gave her warmth and illuminated her with a soft orange glow. Nearby were her Pokémon, as well as Roy's Pokémon, who had been let out to roam and relax. Some were resting, their eyes closed in contentment, while others were observing the surroundings, their ears perked up and alert.

The young trainer herself was occupied with something else, though. She watched intently as a pan was suspended above the fire, and inside the pan, a batch of pancakes sizzled and cooked to perfection. When they were done, a sweet aroma wafted through the air, tantalizing Liko's senses and making her mouth water in anticipation.

She inhaled deeply, savoring the scent of the pancakes, and her stomach growled softly in anticipation of the delicious meal to come. The pancakes looked fluffy and golden, and Liko couldn't wait to sink her teeth into them. The warmth and comfort of the fire, combined with the promise of a tasty meal, made her feel cozy and content.

As some of the pancakes were done, she carefully lifted them out of the pan and placed them in a box, setting them aside to keep warm. The box would keep them cozy until they were ready to eat, and Liko couldn't wait to dig in and taste the delicious pancakes. She smiled to herself, feeling a sense of satisfaction at having cooked a tasty meal. 

Suddenly, the girl heard some footsteps coming towards her, the sound of boots crunching on the ground growing louder with each step. She recognised the sound and Liko felt a small smile grow on her face, her lips curling up in a gentle curve.

Her chest filled with warmth, and she didn't even need to turn her head to know who it was. The familiarity of the footsteps was comforting, and Liko's smile grew a little wider as she waited for Roy to reach her side.

"Need some help with the pancakes?" Roy asked, his voice low and smooth, his words breaking the peaceful silence of the night.

With the smile on her face, she turned to look at Roy, her eyes meeting his magenta ones as she considered his offer. Even so, hearing his voice made something in her chest swell with an emotion that felt familiar to her. It spread throughout her body, a warm and tingling sensation that she couldn't quite ignore.

And yet, her face felt hot, a flush rising to her cheeks as she looked at Roy. She distinctly thought that it's because of the fire that was in front of her, the heat from the flames radiating towards her and causing her skin to warm. But as she glanced at the fire, she couldn't shake off the feeling that it was more than just the flames that was causing her to feel this way.

“Oh? Thank you...” Liko's voice trailed off slightly, her words spoken in a slightly flustered tone. She looked away from Roy for a moment, her eyes drifting back to the pancakes as she tried to compose herself. Her face still felt warm, and she hoped that Roy wouldn't notice her reaction. “I think I've got it covered, but... you can keep me company if you'd like,” she added, trying to sound casual despite her slightly fluttering heart.

She noticed that he perked up at the response, as his eyes widened for a moment before turning back to normal. Even so, there was a sparkle in his eyes that made his eyes seem like gemstones, shining brightly in the firelight.

Unfortunately, Liko didn't notice that, as her focus was on the pancakes. Her blue eyes were staring intently at the pan, watching as the batter transformed into golden-brown treats. The pancakes cooked until they were perfectly done, and the sweet aroma wafted up, filling her senses. She let out a content sigh, satisfied with the result of her cooking. The smell of the pancakes seemed to bring a sense of comfort, and Liko's face relaxed into a gentle smile as she gazed at the perfectly cooked treats.

Roy let out a small chuckle, the sound warm and low, and Liko felt his presence get closer as he sat beside her. Liko tried not to notice how close they were, focusing instead on the pancakes as she expertly flipped them over in the pan.

The sound of sizzling filled the air as the pancakes cooked, the aroma of sweet batter and melting butter wafting up to tease their senses. The gentle crackle of the fire and the soft sizzle of the pancakes created a cozy atmosphere, and Liko felt a sense of contentment wash over her as she cooked. Roy's presence beside her seemed to add to the warmth and comfort of the moment, and Liko's hands moved with a gentle ease as she tended to the pancakes. 

"Of course! Also…" Roy's voice trailed off, and Liko's curiosity was piqued. She turned to him, her eyes meeting his magenta ones as she wondered what he was going to say. "Hm?" she prompted, her voice soft and inquiring. One of her eyebrows raised as she noticed that Roy wasn't looking at her, but instead gazing off into the distance, his eyes fixed intently on the fire.

His hands were clenched into fists, and Liko could have sworn that they were trembling slightly, as if he was struggling to contain some pent-up emotion. His knuckles were white with tension, and his arms were stiff, his elbows locked in place. His expression was... different, a mixture of thoughtfulness and intensity that Liko hadn't seen before. There was a deep furrow between his brows, and his jaw was clenched, giving him a resolute look.

Roy's voice was odd, strained, as if his mind was racing with thoughts. "What's up with Ult? He's acting weird." Roy's tone was thoughtful, but there was an undercurrent of unease, a hint of possessiveness that Liko couldn't quite place. His eyes seemed to cloud over, his gaze drifting back to the fire as if searching for something, or someone. His body language screamed of tension, his muscles coiled tight, as if ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

Liko's eyes were fixed on Roy, her expression curious, trying to read the emotions playing across his face. She leaned in slightly, her body angled towards him, her hands still holding the spatula, but her attention fully on Roy. The air seemed to vibrate with tension, and Liko could sense that there was more to Roy's question than met the eye.

“Yeah… I just tried to have a conversation with him and he reacted oddly by climbing the tree…” Liko's voice was calm and soothing, her words measured as she tried to explain the situation to Roy. She held the spatula in one hand, the other gesturing slightly as she spoke, her movements relaxed and gentle.

As she talked, Liko's eyes never left Roy's face, her gaze locked on his, trying to gauge his reaction and hoping that her calm demeanor would rub off on him. She seemed to be waiting for him to respond, her expression open and non-judgmental, inviting him to share his thoughts.

Meanwhile, Roy's eyes snapped back to Liko, his gaze intense as he listened to her explanation. His fists were still clenched, but his body seemed to be coiled even tighter, as if he was preparing himself for something. His jaw was still set, his face a mask of controlled tension, but his eyes betrayed a flicker of emotion, a flash of something that looked almost like... jealousy.

Seeing that, something in her shifted. She didn't know why Ult reacted like that or why Roy is acting odd as well now. She knew that Roy and Ult weren't exactly friends, but maybe he understood him a bit better than her. But maybe she was wrong. She didn't want to overwhelm their new companion and yet.. 

“Did I do something wrong…?” Liko's voice was tinged with sadness, her words barely above a whisper. Her expression mirrored her feelings, her eyes clouding over with concern and uncertainty. She looked down, her gaze drifting away from Roy's intense stare, as if searching for answers in the flames dancing in the fire.

Her shoulders slumped slightly, and her hands relaxed, the spatula hovering limply in her hand. The pancakes seemed forgotten, as if the situation with Ult and Roy's odd behavior had become the only thing that mattered. Liko's voice was vulnerable, her words laced with a desire for reassurance, as if she was seeking comfort from Roy.

“No! You didn't do anything wrong! It's just…” Roy's words tumbled out quickly, his tone reassuring as he sought to comfort Liko. His fists relaxed slightly, his hands opening up as he reached out to touch her arm, his touch gentle.

Liko felt the warmth of his hand radiating through her clothes, a comforting sensation that seemed to spread through her entire body. She looked down at his hand, her eyes taking in the gentle way his fingers rested on her arm, and for a moment, she forgot about Ult and the strange situation. All she was aware of was the warmth of Roy's touch and the reassuring words he was speaking. Her gaze flicked back up to his face, her eyes searching for answers, as she waited for him to continue.

Roy's expression softened, his intensity dialing back a notch. His eyes, still clouded with a thoughtfulness, locked onto Liko's, searching for... something. He seemed to be struggling to find the right words, his brow furrowed in thought as he hesitated, unsure of how to explain the situation.

Roy's mind flashed back to the earlier conversation prior hours ago, when Ult had announced his intention to join their group. He recalled the way Ult's eyes had sparkled with a mix of excitement and determination, and how he had expected some resistance from the others.

As he thought about it, Roy's expression turned slightly wry, remembering how he had hesitated, unsure of how to react. He hadn't immediately agreed, and neither had Dot, both of them sensing that Ult's enthusiasm might be more than just a passing interest. Roy's thoughts were a jumble of emotions, and he couldn't shake off the feeling that Ult's sudden interest in joining them was more than just a coincidence.

Even thinking about it now made Roy's chest tighten, a pang of discomfort that he couldn't quite explain. He remembered the way Liko's face had lit up with a soft, gentle smile as she agreed to let Ult join them, and how Ult's face had flushed with surprise, his amber eyes wide with a mix of shock and delight before abruptly darting away from hers, as if avoiding eye contact with her.

The memory of that moment still rankled Roy, making him feel like he'd been punched in the gut. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of... something, a sensation that he didn't want to examine too closely. As he looked at Liko now, he felt a mix of emotions swirling inside him, and he wasn't sure how to untangle them.

But he knew one thing for sure. He wanted to be the one close to Liko. Roy had known her way longer than Ult did, and they were best friends. The familiarity and comfort of their friendship had always been a source of strength for him. Although the term "friends" made him have a sour taste in his mouth, as if the word itself had taken on a different meaning in his mind. He couldn't shake the feeling that his connection with Liko went beyond simple friendship, and the thought of Ult inserting himself into their dynamic was making him feel increasingly... territorial.

“...He's the one acting odd.” Roy's voice was strained, his words laced with a mix of frustration and concern as he clenched his hands into fists again. “I've never seen him like this.” His statement hung in the air, a declaration that seemed to convey more than just his puzzlement over Ult's behavior.

Liko's response was a soft "Huh...", her voice trailing off as she seemed to sink into thought. Her eyes remained fixed on Roy's face, her expression contemplative, as if she was trying to piece together the puzzle of Ult's strange behavior and Roy's reaction to it. The silence between them grew, heavy with unspoken thoughts and emotions. The only sound was the crackling of the fire, and the distant rustling of leaves in the trees. The tension between them was palpable, and it seemed to be waiting for something to snap.

Suddenly, the smell of something burned filled Liko's nostrils, and her head turned towards the fire so fast she almost snapped her neck. Looking inside the pan, smoke curled up, and Liko's eyes widened in shock as she realized she had completely forgotten about the pancakes. They were burnt to a crisp, blackened and smoking, and the pan was ruined.

"Oh no!" Liko exclaimed, her hands flying to her mouth in dismay. She quickly grabbed the pan and yanked it off the fire, but it was too late. The pancakes were beyond salvage, and the smell of burnt food hung heavy in the air. Liko's face fell, her eyes wide with disappointment and frustration at her own carelessness. 

She took the ruined pancakes out of the pan and decided to wash it, hoping to salvage it for the rest of the batter. But as she looked at the pan, her face fell. The burnt residue was stubbornly stuck to the bottom, and it seemed like a daunting task to clean it.

Liko let out a groan, her frustration and disappointment boiling over. She hadn't even noticed the state of the pan until now, and the thought of scrubbing off the burnt bits was not exactly appealing. She stood there, pan in hand, wondering if it was even worth the effort.

“Should I help?” Roy's voice came from behind her, laced with a hint of amusement that made Liko's eyes narrow slightly. She turned her head to look at him, her expression deadpan, and her blue eyes caught the faint curve of his mouth as he struggled to contain a grin.

For a moment, their eyes locked, and Liko could sense the teasing glint in Roy's gaze. It was as if he knew exactly how frustrated she was, and he was enjoying the spectacle. Liko's gaze lingered on his face, her expression unchanging, but a tiny spark of annoyance flickered in her eyes. She raised an eyebrow, daring him to laugh.

But she had a feeling that Roy knew that she was staring at him before, and that thought made her feel embarrassed, her cheeks warming up with a flush that she hoped wouldn't be noticeable. She felt a sudden self-consciousness, wondering if he had seen the intensity of her gaze, and if he had guessed what she was thinking. But she forced the feeling down, pushing her thoughts away as she focused on the task at hand, and she went to a nearby river as she grabbed some cleaning utensils on the way. 

The warmth in her cheeks was hard to ignore, but Liko refused to let embarrassment get the better of her. She pushed the feeling aside, focusing instead on the stubborn burnt residue stuck to the pan. Her hands moved with a purpose, scrubbing the pan with a bit more vigor than necessary, as if trying to scrub away her own self-consciousness.

Roy's amused gaze lingered in her peripheral vision, but she refused to meet his eyes again, determined to keep her composure intact. The silence between them was filled with the sound of scrubbing, a tangible distraction from the unspoken tension.

After some time, the pan was finally saved and cleaned again, its surface gleaming in the light from the fire as Liko rinsed it one last time. As she reached for a towel to dry the pan, the soft fabric felt cool against her skin, and she suddenly got an idea on what to do with the rest of the pancake batter. Pancakes were yummy and all, but maybe she could make them look like something more exciting. Her mind started racing with possibilities as she thought about all the fun shapes she could create.

She could make Pokémon shaped pancakes, like their pokemon, or even go for something more abstract like stars or clouds. Maybe she could even make them look like little faces, with smiling mouths and big, round eyes. The thought of seeing Roy's and Ult's reactions when they saw the creative pancakes made her feel a thrill of excitement. She imagined the surprise and delight on their faces as they bit into a pancake shaped like a heart or a flower.

With her imagination running wild, Liko's hands moved with renewed purpose as she began to prepare the batter for its creative makeover. She envisioned a batch of pancakes that would bring a smile to everyone's face, and she couldn't wait to get started. The thought of cooking up something fun and playful was just what she needed to lift her spirits after the earlier mishap with the burnt pancakes. As she worked, her enthusiasm grew, and she felt a sense of anticipation building up inside her. 

What she didn't notice, however, was Roy, who was watching her with soft eyes filled with love and fondness. His expression looked as gentle as it could be, his features relaxed into a warm, tender smile. His eyes crinkled slightly at the corners, and his gaze was so adoring that it seemed to envelop Liko in a warm, comforting light.

Roy's posture was relaxed, but despite his relaxed demeanor, his eyes never left Liko's face, drinking in every detail of her expression, every movement of her hands as she worked.

As he watched her, his chest rose and fell with a slow, deep breath, and his smile softened even further, his lips parting slightly as he gazed at Liko with a deep affection. The gentle light in his eyes seemed to grow warmer, more intimate, as if he was savoring a secret pleasure that only he could see. And in that moment, it seemed as though nothing else existed for him except Liko, her movements, her smile, her presence.

His soul sang with warmth, every fiber of his being resonating with a tender harmony as he gazed at Liko, his heart filled with an intense warmth that filled his body.  

“The pancakes are done!” Liko called out, her voice rising above the sizzling sounds of the pan as the last pancake was done and served on a plate. In response, the Pokémon and Roy began to cheer, their happy cries filling the air with a joyful cacophony. Pikachu let out a high-pitched "Pika, pika!" while the others chimed in with their own excited sounds. Roy's cheerful voice boomed through the night, his laughter mingling with the Pokémon's cheers. The young trainer as Meowscarada held Hattrem in her arms and Liko saw how content both of her Pokémon were. Even Pagogo was enjoying itself as it saw the food on the plate. It stared at the food with stars in its eyes and Liko almost cooed at the sight. It was adorable! 

She couldn't help but smile at the moment, her face lighting up with a warm, genuine grin. She felt a warmth in her chest, a sense of contentment and happiness that spread through her like a gentle glow. As she looked around at the smiling faces, she felt a pang of nostalgia, memories of lazy mornings and family breakfasts flooding back when they were traveling on the Brave Olivine. The simple gesture of cooking for others, of seeing them enjoy her creations, brought her a sense of connection and belonging. Usually it was Murdock who cooked for them, but sometimes Liko wanted to help as well, not only with making a cake, but also cooking in general. She found joy in the process, from measuring out ingredients to stirring the pot, and the sense of accomplishment that came with presenting a finished dish. It was fun and she enjoyed every moment of it, the sizzle of onions, the aroma of spices, and the warmth of the kitchen all combining to create a sense of comfort and happiness.

As she watched the Pokémon and her family savor each bite, their faces lighting up with delight, Liko felt a surge of satisfaction. Especially seeing the positive reactions of the Pokémon and people alike made it all worth it – Pikachu's enthusiastic "Pika, pika!" or Roy's warm smile of appreciation – these small moments made her feel like she was contributing to something special, something that brought people and Pokémon together. And with each successful dish, her confidence grew, and she looked forward to the next time she could cook for the people and Pokémon she cared about.

But now, In this moment, surrounded by the people and Pokémon she cared about, Liko felt a deep sense of peace and happiness, as if everything was exactly as it was meant to be.

“Whoaa!” Liko heard Roy's voice, and she turned around, a plate held out in front of her, bearing a pancake she had just finished decorating. With a mixture of excitement and a touch of nervousness, she presented it to Roy, the pancake's face bearing an uncanny resemblance to his.

She hoped it wasn't too embarrassing, but the look on his face quickly dispelled any doubts. Roy's eyes lit up with surprise and delight, and a warm smile spread across his face as he took in the pancake's features, his eyes crinkling at the corners. A fondness and appreciation shone in his eyes, making her breath hitch. In that moment, all her negative thoughts melted away, replaced by a sense of joy and connection.

Liko's heart swelled with happiness as she watched Roy's reaction, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment. She had put her heart into creating this little surprise, and seeing it bring a smile to his face made it all worthwhile. Roy's face broke into a gentle chuckle, and he asked, “You made me a pancake version of myself?” His voice was full of amusement, as he picked up the plate and examined the pancake more closely.

Liko nodded, still smiling, her eyes locked on Roy's face. She was captivated by the warmth in his expression, the way his eyes sparkled with delight. Roy's grin softened into a warm, appreciative smile, and he said, “It's perfect,” his voice low and sincere. Liko felt her cheeks warm up with pleasure, a flush of happiness spreading through her chest. In this moment, everything felt right with the world, and she was grateful for the simple joy of sharing a meal and a smile with someone she cared about. 

As Liko turned around to look at the Pokémon, a heartwarming scene unfolded before her. All of the Pokémon had a pancake and some berries accompanying it, and each one looked happy and content in its own way. Lucario was smiling gratefully at Liko, its eyes shining with appreciation as it accepted its pancake some moments before. Kilowattrel was sitting on the ground, looking relaxed and satisfied, but as it opened its eyes to glance at Liko, she saw a deep sense of gratefulness and care in its gaze.

Meowscarada, Hattrem, and Pagogo were gathered near Liko, their pancakes and berries at the ready, while Cap sat beside Roy, his food untouched for the moment as he watched the scene with interest. As the Pokémon awaited the signal to start eating, the air was filled with anticipation and excitement.

Her heart swelled at the sight before her, Liko felt a sense of joy and fulfillment. She loved seeing the Pokémon happy and content, and knowing that she had played a part in bringing them joy filled her with warmth. “Let's dig in!” Roy's voice rang out, and at his words, the Pokémon eagerly began to eat their pancakes and berries. A cozy and intimate atmosphere that wrapped everyone in a sense of comfort. 

Nevertheless, Liko knew someone was missing in the picture, and she took a plate with a pancake onto her hand. She turned around and looked up at the figure still sitting on the branch, Ult's back turned to them, his posture radiating a sense of distance and refusal.

Liko's eyes met the pancake on the plate, and she smiled softly, hoping to entice him. She had made a special effort to create a pancake that resembled Sableye, Ult's Pokémon, and she was eager to see his reaction. “Ult! Come down!” Liko said, her voice gentle and inviting, filled with a warmth that she hoped would melt his resistance.

She pointed with her other hand at the pancake, the design on the pancake bearing a striking resemblance to Sableye's sleek and mysterious features. “Look! See? It's Sableye!” she exclaimed, her eyes locked on Ult's back, hoping he would turn around and see the effort she had put into making a pancake just for him.

As she stood there, plate in hand, Liko felt a sense of longing for Ult to join them. She wanted to see him smile, to see the warmth in his eyes as he took a bite of the pancake. She hoped that this small gesture would be enough to bring him back into the fold, to make him feel included and loved. With a hopeful heart, Liko waited for Ult's response, her eyes fixed on his motionless form.

The Sableye turned its body around, its gaze falling upon the plate in Liko's hand. On top of it was a pancake that looked remarkably like the Pokémon itself, and by the looks of it, Sableye let out an approving response, its eyes lighting up with interest. With a fluid motion, Sableye climbed down the tree, its movements swift and agile.

Ult's face was a picture of utter shock and abandonment as he watched his Pokémon leave him alone on the tree. “Huh? Sableye!” he exclaimed, his voice filled with surprise and a hint of dismay. He looked like he had been left high and dry, his eyes wide with astonishment as he stared at the spot where Sableye had been sitting just moments before.

“Come and eat with us, Ult!” Liko tried once again to convince him to join them, to eat together. She smiled warmly, hoping to entice him with the warmth and camaraderie of the moment.

“I'm not hungry!” Ult declared, his voice firm, but his stomach had other plans. It growled loudly, betraying his claim, and Liko swore she heard him whine softly under his breath as he realized his stomach's betrayal. Ult's face twisted in a mixture of embarrassment and hunger as he put his arms on his stomach, briefly looking down at the traitorous part of his body.

“I can tell that you are!” Liko responded, her voice kind and teasing. She chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she watched Ult's predicament. She hoped that he'd notice her teasing so that he'd be more comfortable but… 

“Shut up!” Ult yelled out loud, his words cutting through the air and hitting Liko like a slap. Her happy expression was instantly wiped from her face, replaced by a sad and downcast look. Her eyes dropped, and her smile disappeared, leaving her face looking pale and hurt.

Sableye, sensing the shift in atmosphere, finished eating the pancake and nodded at Liko as if in gratitude before jumping down and returning to its trainer, Ult. Liko turned around, her movements slow and mechanical, and placed the plate on a nearby rock before sitting down next to Roy.

She didn't look at Roy or anyone else, her gaze fixed on the fire that flickered in front of her, the flames dancing and crackling softly. “Did I mess up with Ult, somehow?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her words laced with uncertainty and self-doubt. She seemed lost in thought, her mind replaying the interaction with Ult, wondering what she had done wrong. 

Roy's expression softened into one of deep sympathy and empathy as he watched Liko's reaction to Ult's outburst. He sensed that her mood had taken a significant downturn, and he wanted to comfort her, to ease the hurt and uncertainty that seemed to be clouding her face. “He's just embarrassed that he got lost and wound up back here,” Roy explained gently, his voice soft and understanding, filled with a warmth that was meant to envelop Liko in reassurance.

“He'll come down eventually,” Roy added, trying to convey a sense of certainty and calm, his words a gentle balm to Liko's frazzled emotions. As he spoke, he watched Liko's profile, his eyes filled with kindness and concern, hoping that his words would sink in and that she would relax a bit, letting go of some of the tension that seemed to be gripping her.

Roy's gaze was steady and comforting, and he reached out, his movements slow and deliberate, placing a gentle hand on Liko's shoulder in a comforting gesture. His touch was light, but reassuring, a silent message that he was there for her, that he understood and cared. The warmth of his hand seemed to seep into Liko's skin, a soothing presence that might help to calm her jangled nerves and lift her spirits.

As Liko's eyes met Roy's, the sadness in them was palpable, and Roy's heart went out to her. But as he held her gaze, he saw the faintest glimmer of a smile, a small, grateful curve of her lips that told him his words and touch had reached her. Roy's own face softened into a gentle smile in response, a sense of connection and understanding passing between them.

"Thank you," Liko said, her voice barely above a whisper, but the words were enough. In that moment, nothing more needed to be said, as they both understood each other perfectly, their eyes and actions conveying a depth of feeling that transcended words. The silence that followed was warm and comforting, filled with a sense of mutual understanding and empathy.

The atmosphere was peaceful as Roy savored the last bite of his pancake, the sweetness lingering on his tongue. “That was yummy!” he exclaimed, his eyes lighting up with appreciation. The Pokémon nearby seemed to agree, their happy chirps and nods adding to the warmth of the moment.

As they finished their meal, Roy helped with the cleanup, efficiently washing the dishes in a nearby stream and packing away the remains of their food into the box. The pancakes that were left over were carefully stored away, destined to be a delightful breakfast the next morning. Roy was looking forward to tasting Liko's creations once again, and he smiled to himself as he thought about the prospect of enjoying her pancakes once again. 

As he worked, Roy's movements were methodical and precise, a testament to his practical nature and love for order. He made sure everything was properly stored and secured, his mind already thinking ahead to the next day's adventures. The sound of water flowing over rocks and the rustling of the leaves creating a soothing background melody that accompanied Roy's tasks. With the cleanup complete, Roy felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing that everything was in its place and ready for the night ahead.

Liko busied herself getting out their sleeping bags, the soft fabric unfolding in the gentle breeze as she shook out the wrinkles and laid them out on the grassy clearing. The darkness of the night was illuminated only by the soft glow of the stars above, casting a silvery light over the landscape. The air was cool and crisp, but the mild temperature made it perfect for sleeping under the stars.

As she worked, the only sounds were the occasional rustle of leaves in the gentle night breeze and their Pokémon. The world was quiet and still, and Liko's movements were calm and deliberate as she prepared their sleeping area. With the sleeping bags laid out, she settled in, feeling the softness of the fabric and the comfort of the night air surrounding her.

As Liko finished her tasks, she let out a soft yawn, her eyes drooping slightly as she tried to stifle the weariness that was creeping in. Roy noticed the tiredness etched on her face, her features softening in the gentle moonlight. It was only natural that she would be feeling tired, given the long day of traveling and the late hour.

Roy himself was feeling the weight of fatigue, his eyelids growing heavy as he gazed at Liko. He nodded to himself, acknowledging the exhaustion that was settling in. The peaceful surroundings and the soft sounds of the night seemed to be lulling them both into a state of relaxation, and Roy knew it was time to get some rest.

As Roy settled into his sleeping bag, the soft fabric wrapped around him like a warm hug, and he felt his eyelids growing heavy. He glanced over at Liko, who was snuggling into her own sleeping bag, and a soft smile spread across his face. The shared tiredness and the peaceful surroundings created a sense of comfort between them.

The world around them grew quieter, the only sounds being the gentle rustling of leaves and the soft breathing of their Pokémon, who were settled in beside them. The stars twinkled above, a celestial display of peacefulness, and Roy felt his thoughts drift to the warmth and companionship of the moment.

Traveling with Liko again felt like second nature to him, a sense of ease and familiarity that he'd grown accustomed to over time. He felt a deep connection to her, a sense of loyalty and companionship that went beyond mere friendship. As he gazed at Liko's peaceful form, he smiled to himself, feeling a sense of contentment wash over him, and let the gentle rhythm of the night lure his eyes into closing and rest, but even so, his mind was elsewhere. 

As Roy's thoughts drifted to the possibility of always being by Liko's side, a sense of devotion and affection filled his heart. The last thing he thought was that he would always support her and love her, a tender feeling that seemed to wrap itself around his very being, his very soul. For a fleeting moment, a vision of Liko's blue eyes flashed in his mind, filled with a deep longing and connection.

As his eyelids finally gave in to the weight of sleep, his vision began to fade, and Roy's consciousness slipped away into the realm of dreams. The world around him grew dark, and the stars above twinkled like diamonds in the sky, watching over the peaceful slumber of the two travelers and their Pokémon companions.

Liko lay in her sleeping bag, her mind racing with thoughts and emotions. She couldn't shake off the feeling of confusion and curiosity that had been building up inside her. Ult's behavior had left her perplexed, and she found herself wondering what was going on in his mind. But it was Roy who was occupying most of her thoughts. She had known him for a long time, and yet, she couldn't help but feel that he had changed in ways she didn't fully understand.

The look in his eyes had caught her attention, a spark of jealousy that she couldn't quite decipher. Liko's thoughts swirled with questions, trying to make sense of Roy's emotions and actions. Despite the confusion, one thing was clear to her— Roy's kindness and gentle nature still had the power to make her heart flutter. Liko's thoughts swirled with a mix of curiosity and excitement as she imagined what it would be like to be the recipient of Roy's affection. The idea of being loved by him sent a wave of warmth through her body, making her skin feel flushed and her heart pound in her chest. She couldn't help but let her imagination run wild, picturing the gentle way he had touched her shoulder, the kindness in his eyes, and the softness of his voice.

As she thought about love, her face and ears grew even hotter, and she felt a tingling sensation in her cheeks. Her heart was racing now, pounding in her ears like a drum. Liko felt like she was melting into the warmth that was spreading through her body. 

Liko's mind was a jumble of emotions and questions, and she knew it would take her a while to untangle her thoughts and fall asleep. But for now, she lay there, her heart beating faster, her thoughts consumed by the enigmatic Roy and the mysteries that seemed to surround him. She couldn't help but think of his Magenta eyes as she looked up at the stars. 

As Liko's eyelids grew heavy, she let out a soft sigh, and her body relaxed into the sleeping bag. The soothing sounds of nature and the gentle breathing of her Pokémon pulled her into a peaceful state, calming her racing thoughts. Her heartbeat slowed, and her mind began to quiet, letting go of the swirling emotions and questions.

In the stillness, Liko's thoughts grew hazy, and she felt herself drifting off to sleep. The last whisper of her consciousness was a gentle, wistful thought of Roy, and the idea of sharing a life with him. As she slipped into the realm of dreams, her face softened into a serene smile, and her body relaxed, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the night.

Liko's peaceful slumber was shattered by a loud yell that jolted her awake. She sat up with a start, her heart racing as she took in the scene before her. Meowscarada let out a disgruntled growl, her tail twitching irritably as she glared at the source of the disturbance. Hattrem's eyes snapped open, and she looked around, her gaze lingering on Roy before focusing on the empty box in his hands.

Terapagos stirred beside Liko, yawning widely as it stretched its legs and arched its back. Liko's eyes were fixed on Roy, who stood frozen, holding the empty box and staring at it with a look of utter dismay. His clothes were neatly arranged, but his hair was slightly tousled, suggesting he had just rolled out of his sleeping bag. Liko stood up and walked towards the boy to see why he was so distraught. He held the box in his hands, where the pancakes were supposed to be. 

The morning light cast a warm glow over the scene, illuminating the empty box and Roy's distressed face. Liko's gaze lingered on the box, and she couldn't help but notice the crumbs in the box. It looked like something – or someone – ate all of them. 

Roy's face was a picture of distress, his eyes wide with disappointment as he gaped at the empty box. Liko couldn't help but laugh at the sight of him, and she felt a pang of amusement at his reaction. "Roy, what's wrong?" she asked, trying to stifle her giggles. Roy's gaze snapped up to hers, his expression still distraught as he held out the empty box. "Our pancakes are gone!" he exclaimed, his voice laced with dismay. 

When Roy exclaimed that their pancakes were gone, Liko let out a burst of laughter, her giggles echoing through the morning air. She couldn't help but find his reaction endearing, and her amusement grew as she took in his distressed face. Her eyes sparkled with mirth as she gazed at Roy, her shoulders shaking with laughter.

As she looked around, her gaze landed on Ult's sleeping form, and she had a strong suspicion that he and Sableye were the culprits behind the missing pancakes. The empty plate on the rock nearby, littered with crumbs of the pancake, seemed to confirm her suspicions. Liko's laughter grew louder as she imagined Ult eating their breakfast, and she couldn't help but think that it was just like him to indulge in her favorite pancakes.

Her eyes darted to Roy, who was now walking towards Ult, his face still etched with disappointment and a hint of accusation. Liko's laughter grew even more intense as she anticipated the confrontation, and she found herself holding her belly in an attempt to contain her mirth. She now knew that Ult loved pancakes almost as much as she did, and the thought of him devouring her pancakes in the middle of the night made her giggle uncontrollably. 

As she watched Roy approach Ult, her laughter echoed through the air, infectious and joyful.