Archive of Our Own ^beta

It’s all he knew.

Trees that reached to the sky, so thick in some areas that it blocked out the sun. Flowers of many colors blooming everywhere. 

In the very heart of the forest was a lone white tree, small, had no leaves or flowers. But it was not dead, it was not unimportant, it was the very beating heart of the forest.

A soft light began to emanate from the tree, small at first, but grew larger over time and changing shape till with a final burst its true form was revealed.

Xerneas the Pokémon of life.

Stretching a little bit Xerneas took a breath, sweet air with hints of pine and wildflower. Taking a step, then two  and a couple more. Soon the magnificent Pokémon was gliding through the forest, its horns glowing as its power seeped through, healing, helping grow and spreading beauty as wherever his hooves touched flowers bloomed.

Sensing his awakening Pokémon began to come out, floettes cheered as they surrounded Xerneas, fletching chirped and some dropped flowers. A celebration indeed.

With a smile he nodded his head silently thanking them for their welcome before the joyful moment turned to silence.

As if sending danger the Pokémon stopped, the fletching chirps seized and backed away, floettes quickly flew away. Silence settled as the Pokémon left in terror leaving Xerneas confused as to why they left before he too felt it.

A dark aura, cold like winter, the smell of something unnatural and ash, trees began to wilt a little, greenery receded as a voice called out

“Ma biche, how I missed you”

It took all Xerneas had not to roll his eyes as he turned and looked at the shadowy figure that materialized before him. Bird like form with large black and red wings, its eyes stared at Xerneas as it loomed closer.

“It’s nice to see you too Yvelta” said Xerneas with forced politeness as his horns began to glow slightly, releasing his power he was able to counteract Yveltas power of death “But I must be going now, I have a lot I need to do”

Turning he began to walk away but Yvelta followed “Let me accompany you, I feel as though you would enjoy the company after such a long time”,

“Your very kind, but I am with good company” Xerneas responded with politeness as he hurried his steps,

“But I insist, it’s been so lonely” said Yvelta keeping up then sped up so he was in front of Xerneas “I admit that I missed you terribly”.

For a second the two legendaries stared, eye to eye, then Xerneas shook his head “I am sorry, but I would be lying if I said that I missed you”.

The environment shifted when Xerneas spoke those words, while Yvelta did not speak his eyes spoke volumes, for behind those blue eyes was a sea of rage which was barely contained within him.

“You do not mean that” Yvelta finally spoke, his voice calm but with an edge to it.

Xerneas dared not speak, his heart was racing, his mind screaming at him to get away from the mad Pokémon. But found there was no need as Yvelta turned and said “But have it your way, I will leave you be, for now, but remember, we are the Pokémon of life and death, we were born intertwined and as such we are meant to be united”.

With those parting words the legendary Pokémon of death dissolved into the darkness, as it did the power of death too left restoring the calm of the forest.

As if sending this the Fletchings and the Floettes reappeared, all of them fluttering around Xerneas. Their chatter revealing worry.

Taking a shaky breath Xerneas forced happiness as he spoke “I am okay, he is gone”

The Pokémon seemed relieved to hear that, even though Xerneas knew far to well that Yvelta would be back soon. For the Pokémon of death was not one to be refused.

“Come now! Let’s see how the world has changed” declared Xerneas as he hoped that a walk around the forest would take his mind off of the encounter.

Disappointment.

It filled Xerneas like a bitter berry as he found his forest was not in the same state as when he had left. 

Where there had been flowers and meadows there was now trash that littered the place, it was as if humans had decided his sacred forest was now their new dumping ground and it upsetted Xerneas greatly.

 “Maybe I can-“ he paused when he heard movement coming towards his direction.

Acting quick Xerneas hid behind the trees and watched silently as humans walked into the area.

They wore strange orange and dark blue outfits, carried bags and a strange long pole of sorts. As they walked they stopped every now and then, picking up garbage and placing them in bags while the larger items was picked up and placed in a cart that was being pulled by a pair of rapidash.

“Disgraceful, if these people treat this sacred place like a dumping ground I wonder how hey can sleep at night” a distinct voice spoke.

“He is tall”  Xerneas could not help but note as the person came to view. Unlike the others this one was dressed differently, had a white shirt with an orange vest over it, blue pants and shoes, his orange hair was styled very uniquely in Xerneas opinion, kinda reminded him of a pyroar.

“Thank you for helping out, though I do not know why you insisted to personally come yourself” said one of the humans dressed in dark blue and orange.

“It is I who thank you for letting me know Keith” said the tall man as he picked up some garbage “While true I could send somebody in my place I find that this gives me a chance to go outside and visit the forests”,

“But your schedule is busy” Keith pointed out,

“It’s not going to get any less busy” he said then added “I also wanted to check up on you, see how you were doing”.

The ranger seemed to beam with pride as he said “I am doing well, I am thankful every day you took me under your wing and showed me a better path forward”,

“That was all you Keith, I merely provided the necessary tools for you” said the tall man, for a second his serious facial expression soften to one of pride, much like a father being proud of its child.

It was strangely endearing to Xerneas as he kept an eye on the group as they cleaned up the area. Once done Keith turned and looked at the forest then asked “Sir, what is the story about this forest again?”,

“Why Keith, I must have told you that story several times when I took you camping here” chuckled Lysander, his laugh and smile was as of somebody who had not laughed or smiled in a long time yet somehow was able to remember how to smile and laugh.

“I would like to hear it again, please sir” asked Keith softly as they loaded their equipment into the cart. It was clear that it was not that he liked the story, rather liked that the man before him who he clearly saw as a mentor, maybe even a father figure, would tell him a story.

“Very well” nodded the man, took a breath as if he was thinking then began “Many ages ago, before the beginning of Kalos, the mighty Pokemon Xerneas was traveling through the land, searching for a place to call home”

The rangers were in awe as they listened to the story, so was Xerneas though for a different reason as he was not captivated by the story, rather he was captivated by the man speaking the story. What it was about the man Xerneas was not sure, but there was something about the man that peeked his interest.

Maybe it was the care he showed for the forest if he went through all the trouble to help clean it up or maybe it was the way that he treated others of his kind from what he could see.

“Soon the mighty Pokemon came to a sad scene, a forest that had been burned down. Pokémon from all around mourned the loss as the forest was their home. Filled with compassion Xerneas used his power to restore the burnt forest, making it even more beautiful than it already was” continued the man then finished “Seeing its beauty the Pokémon decided to make it its home and to this day it is said that if your pure of heart and visit the forest you will be able to see xerneas, who continues to watch over the forest”.

The rangers clapped at the end of the story while Keith commented “I always like that story”,

“It’s my personal favorite as well” said the man with a smile,

“Do you have any more stories?” Asked another ranger,

“Why yes but I think they would be boring”,

“We would like to hear them nonetheless” said a ranger,

“Yes please sir”,

“Alright, but please Keith, you know to call me by my name” said the man,

“Yes sir… I mean Lysander” said Keith catching himself.

The group walked away, Lysander telling another story, this one of a king who in wanting peace ended up bringing war. Neither one knowing how close they had been to the legend they had spoken about.

As they left Xerneas could not help but have his curiosity peeked.

While yes he had seen many humans before, most interactions had been aggressive. This was the first time he had seen humans interacting in a much more pleasant and amicable way.

And that Lysander person, was he the leader? If so he seemed very nice and caring.

“Hope I get to see them again” he though to himself before going back further into the woods.

As if Arceus was listening to his Hope Xerneas did get to see again. This time it was just one of the group called Keith with Lysander. 

The two were walking side by side, one hand holding a box, the other with a strange pole. Finding a nice river the two took a seat, opened their boxes and put something that was inside the boxes into the pole which revealed to have a string. Casting it out into the river the two sat still and silent for a while.

Xerneas watched, curious of their interactions, before Keith spoke “So are the rumors true?”,

“Which rumors?” asked Lysander,

“That you and Diantha are dating?” Answered Keith,

“Auras no! If I was then Malva would use flamethrower on me for being involved with her girl” said Lysander rather appalled “We are just good friends, nothing more”,

“I just assumed since the two of you are close” said Keith rather embarrassed,

“Well your not wrong for we are close, but there never was anything romantic between us, we are just childhood friends” admitted Lysander “We have been through a lot together, she helped me with my family and I helped her with hers”,

“Strange, never heard of your family” said Keith curious,

“Nothing to say about them, they disowned me for wanting to get an education instead of going down the trainer path” said Lysander “Lost count how many times they called telling me I was wasting my potential, same with her too, her parents though she was a fool to persue acting instead of becoming a Pokémon nurse, we both left at the same time and never spoke to our parents after that”,

“I see….. is that why you took me in?” asked Keith sadly,

“Yes and no, you and everybody else are good kids, I am well aware that life is hard and it’s even harder with parents trying to force kids down a path with no true support or safety net, it has led countless of children and adults to end up on the wrong crowds” Lysander explained “I want to prevent that as much as I can, to show that a good future can be made even if it’s not the traditional path often chosen, trainers… there will always be many of them… the world needs more people that do good things, more doctors, nurses, teachers” then turned and smiled at Keith with pride “And Pokémon rangers such as yourself”.

Xerneas could feel the pride and joy coming from Keith as he looked at Lysander. It was so touching to see such a wonderful interaction, that even though Keith was not Lysanders child he did care for him a lot. It took all Xerneas had not to squeal at the scene when there was yelling.

“Wow! Wow!” Yelled Keith as he tugged and pulled at the pole.

“You caught one” celebrated Lysander,

“Ya! It really putting up a fight!” said Keith as he struggled with the pole, pulling back and forth. Lysander jumped in to help, together the two pulled and something blue and small came flying out of the water, smacking Lysander in the face in the process.

“Ow” Lysander though as he bit his lips, trying to hold back his need to yell while he held his face.

“Lysander!? You okay!?”,

“Ya…. What hit me? A Kyoger?” groaned Lysander,

“No, but I think the little guy got lost” chuckled Keith.

Removing his hands from his throbbing face, though the pain was more coming from his broken dignity, Lysander looked and was surprised to see it was a Horsea.

Its struggle ceased when Keith held it gently in his arms before commenting “I never seen one this in land before, think it got lost?”,

“Probably?” Said Lysander trying to regain composer then added “Or maybe the Pokémon is sick, regardless I think it would be wise to get the little one to a Pokemon center right now”,

“Right” said Keith as he gently placed Horsea in a bucket full of water causing the little Pokemon to bob up and down the water.

Taking that Keith carried the Pokemon while Lysander took and carried their boxes and poles. Together the two left with the horsea determined to find the nearest pokemon center leaving Xerneas all alone again.

With a sigh Xerneas turned and went back further into the forest, disappointed that they had to leave so soon even though it was for a good reason.

“It is nice that he cares so much about pokemon” thought Xerneas as he made his way to a nearby meadow. It had been looking a little down today so he made it his mission to help it grow a little.

A loud cry sounded the area, startling Xerneas from his thoughts, a heard of fletching, floettes and eevees came running from different directions.

Pass Xerneas, going further down south.

Confused and worried Xerneas ran to the direction where the Pokémon had run off to only to find a horrible sight.

The meadow which had once been there was gone!

All the flowers, greenery, berry bushes, even some trees had been destroyed. In its place was a land barren of life with not a single green to be found. The only color to be seen were the many crystals that rose from the ground.

Stepping closer Xerneas was silence in horror at what happened while a voice asked 

“Do you like it?”

Turning Xerneas saw Yvelta, his form floated gracefully as he examined the area. Quite pleased with his work.

“It took a bit of time, but I find that it was well worth it” continued Yvelta as Xerneas silence persisted, moving over he picked up a crystal.

A large one, high clarity, when light hit it just right it reflected a rainbow of color.

Presenting it to Xerneas who was shaking Yvelta smiled “A jewel, just for you, the only one I could ever love”

Those words hit a nerve as rage bubbled over “How dare you” began Xerneas.

Many millennia had passed, he had seen everything from the rise and fall, never once did he felt rage as he did right now.

“Well I wanted a grand gesture for-“,

“Do you have any idea or even care about what you did!? You destroyed my meadow and part of my forest! This place is sacred and more importantly the home of Pokémon and you just destroyed it without a second thought!” Tears of anger and sorrow spilled from Xerneas eyes as he spoke those words.

“This is your forest, I doubt that-“,

“Yes! It’s my forest! But it’s their home and you just wrecked it!” screamed Xerneas,

“I just wanted to show you what I feel” said Yvelta, his voice soft, but it brought fear into Xerneas being.

“I miss you, I miss our walks, our talks, your presence, I miss every hour we spent together, waiking up next to you” listed Yvelta.

For everything mentioned Xerneas eyes widen more and more with fear. His words and memories were sweet, but Xerneas remembered well and knew they were not sweet memories.

He remembered the fear of Yveltas rages, the pain of taking in every single hit Yvelta gave in said rages, the loneliness and isolation as Yvelta refused Xerneas to interact with anybody, sometimes even extending to refusing Xerneas to leave. The last straw that made Xerneas end their relationship was when Yvelta beat him up so badly that Zygard was forced to step in and stop him. It was that day that a millennia ago that xerneas swore that he would never go back to Yvelta.

The words of love continued coming from Yveltas mouth, but each one was like a dagger, a promise that if he should return to the cage he would find the locks were extra sturdy and any escape would be impossible.

“Xerneas please, I beg of you” he finished showing the crystal again “Come back to me”.

Unable to speak Xerneas shook his head over and over.

“I refuse! I refuse! I rather die than go back to you!” He wanted to scream but was unable to as he turned and ran away, refusing to stay another second with the mad Pokémon.

As he ran he heard Yvelta call out

“You cannot run from me! You were made to be with me! So help me arceus we will be together again! And when we are you will never leave again! That is a promise!”

It was not a threat, it was a promise, one Xerneas had no part in as he continued to run, wanting to put as much distance from him and Yvelta as possible.

Days passed, how many Xerneas was not sure as he had been too busy hiding in the deepest cave he could find near the forest in an effort to avoid Yvelta.

Knowing that he could not stay hidden forever Xerneas carefully left the cave. Sticking his head out he noted how the sky was dark with clouds, probably was going to rain soon.

Taking a step, then two followed by more Xerneas began to trot with more ease through the forest as he found that Yvelta was nowhere in sight.

“Make a quick check on the rest of the meadows then head back” though Xerneas as he moved through the trees with soft and and gentle glide that most people if spotted would think it was a figment of their imagination.

Arriving to the meadow he was disappointed to find this one was also gone. But unlike the last one which was the work of Yvelta, this one was a work of humans who seemed to have made it their mission to pick the meadow till there was not a single flower left.

All around the area hovered some floettes and flabébé looked sad. Which was not surprising, these Pokémon often left on long journeys, but every so often they would return to the very first place they received their flowers, so seeing this place bare and picked apart by humans was very depressing for them.

Stepping closer Xerneas examined the area to see what could be done.

“Maybe I can ask the fletchings to get some seeds and-“ he frozen when he heard voices heading his way.

Quickly the Pokémon scattered while Xerneas hid in the trees, watching as humans, the rangers walked to the area. Among them Keith led them to the area.

“This is it” said Keith as he gestured to the barren terrain that was once a meadow.

With a nod the rangers walked through the area, they had bags with them and every now and then they would stick their hands into the bag and throw seeds around. Meanwhile Keith was busy hammering signs around the area.

When done they left as quickly as they came leaving Xerneas to wonder what was that about.

Walking out of his hiding spot Xerneas looked over one sign, it had something written in human language.

“Let’s seee” he hummed as he recalled Celebi teaching him to read human writing “Protected Meadow, please do not pick or trample the flowers”.

So the humans were trying to save the forest meadows, how nice Xerneas thought to himself as his horns began to glow.

It left as a mist which spread through the ground, seeping into it.

At first nothing happened, but soon from the ground a burst of color and fragrance came out as flowers upon flowers emerged from the seeds which were placed there.

The flabébé and floettes rejoiced at their restore meadow while Xerneas left, happy at what he witnessed.

Months passed as Xerneas continued to watch the forest, every now and then he saw humans enter his forest. 

Sometimes the same rangers he saw, other times young children, family every now and then. But it took a long time before he saw Lysander again.

This time he was alone at first, walking the forest in silence, seemed to be in deep though as he did. Silently Xerneas followed him, careful to conceal its presence as it did so.

Arriving to an open area near the heart of the forest Lysander sat down under a tree, at first he seemed to be contemplating before he reached into a leather bag he brought with him and took out some strange round items.

Pokeballs? If Xerneas recalled correctly.

Opening them Lysander let his Pokémon loose. A mienshao which quickly ran and darted through the flowers, rubbing its body against the fresh grass with delight. Honchcrow that quickly flew up into a nearby tree hoping to snack on the juicy red apples that grew there. Most fascinating was a red Gyarados that made its way to the river, dipping into the cool water and sighting in delight as it relaxed in its cool clear water.

Last but not least was a tiny Litleo, the first thing the little one did was pounced on Lysander playfully.

Xerneas held back the need to giggle as the little liteo wiggled his body as Lysander held him and stroke his fur before setting him aside and reaching into his bag, producing a rope of some sort.

Throwing that Litleo ran after it, pounced then brought it back. Taking it Lysander played a little tug a war with the Pokémon. Sometimes letting the litleo win, other times he would win and throw the rope allowing the litleo to give chase and bring it back.

Stopping he ran his hand through the little cubs fur before the Honchcrow swoop down and landed on his head demanding attention too.

Lysander chuckled and reached to stroke the bird pokemons feathers which made the said bird give happy coo sounds.

Hours passed with Xerneas watching the little group, sure he should have moved on but something about watching the group interact just entranced the legendary Pokémon. The bond the group shared, the kindness Lysander showed to them, it was clear he saw them more than just Pokémon.

When the sun began to set Lysander began to pack up to leave, a part of xerneas was sad, wished to go over and maybe start a conversation. But knew better than to do that for it could lead to his capture.

Calling back his Pokémon into the pokeballs Lysander finished packing and left. As he slung his bag over his shoulder a single pokeball fell out and landed on the ground.

Lysander being non the wiser left.

Once gone Xerneas walked over, he smelled the pokeball only to jump back when it opened and the tiny Litleo came out.

The little one looked confused then distressed when he noted he was still in the forest with Xerneas who was nothing but a potential dangerous stranger.

Giving soft cries trying to look intimidating it backed away terrified as it looked around and calling for help.

With compassion Xerneas gently approached, it winced as he bend down then nibbled at the little pokemons head, a gesture that showed he meant no harm.

Calming down Litleo looked then looked around, crying out in distress at being left behind by accident.

“Don’t worry little one, I will get you back home” promised Xerneas softly before gently pushing the pokemons back in a reassuring gesture.

Litleo looked unsure but decided to trust Xerneas, nodding Xerneas began to walk, gently guiding liteo through the dark forest.

Staying close to the Pokémon Litleo was frightened  and hid under Xerneas when ghost Pokémon began to appear as the forest got darker and darker. With a smile Xerneas began to let his power flow, a dull glow lighting the area so it would not be so scary for Litleo.

Feeling much more trust and bravery Litleo began to walk by Xerneas side with much more confidence.

When out of the forest Litleo took the lead and began to walk ahead as if he could recognize the path home now that they were out of the forest. Xerneas followed as he wanted to make sure that Litleo arrived back to his home safely.

They walked pass gardens and empty streets. Xerneas could not help but look on in awe as he had never seen such human creations before.

Soon they entered a human dwelling, it left Xerneas in shock as he had never seen homes such as these before. Began to wonder how many humans lived in them, how did it look like in daylight? So many questions…

Pass a massive metal structure Litleo darted to a large building with a garden in front, squeezing through the iron bars it went up the stairs to the door and began to paw at it, calling out loudly.

Xerneas watched then froze for a second when he heard a sound.

“Somebody is coming” though Xerneas as he quickly hid in a nearby dark alley.

Further down the street Lysander walked, his walk was in a hurry and frantic, in his hand he had a strange device (flashlight) that produced light. Hearing the liteo he dropped it and ran over, noticing the little one he quickly went pass the iron gate and scooped up the litleo, holding it close.

“Loui! How did you!?… thank auras your okay” he said sounding relieved, Litleo just gave a sound and buried itself against Lysander.

With Litleo in his arms Lysander opened the door and walked in. As they did Litleo looked back at where Xerneas was, a look of thanks in his little face before the door closed.

Stepping out Xerneas gave a sigh, glad that things ended well before turning and making his way back to the forest. The whole time his mind replaying the events that just transpired as he began to feel warm on the inside.

Such a strange new feeling.

“He just found his way home?” asked Keith surprised as he and Lysander walked through the forest, nearby Liteo followed as Lysander made it a mission that he would remember the way back home, just in case.

“Yes and no” admitted Lysander “While Loui is very intelligent he is still too young to know tracking, my guess is that he had a little help getting back home”,

“Help, do you know who?” asked Keith curious as he bend down and picked up a can that had been left on the trail, intending to throw that into a recycling bin nearby.

“Not a clue, regardless I am grateful of the person who helped” said Lysander as he traced his steps, his eyes looking around the place then stopped “There it is”.

Bending down he picked up a pokeball “Must have fallen out of my bag” mused Lysander then paused when he noticed something odd.

Inside the pokeball was a flower, a simple pink carnation.

Taking it he held it up for Keith to see who gave him a questioning look. It was very odd as carnations were found on the other side of the forest, nowhere near where the pokeball was found which made the theory of Liteo having help making his way back home a lot more plausible.

But even so it left one big question unanswered. 

Who was the one who helped Litleo?

“So I was thinking we could do a charity event later on, it would be great for content” Malva said as she, Diantha and Lysander sat in the cafe terrace in Laverre city.

Due to their busy schedules it was hard to find time to meet up and catch up with what was going on in each others lives. So when such times came they tried to make the most of it.

“Oh that’s a good idea, it’s been so long since I participated in one” said Diantha then turned to Lysander and asked “What should we dedicate the event to? The local Pokémon center? Hospitals? Schools?”.

Lysander though, there had already been several charity events and donations for all that was mentioned. Personally he found it best to highlight and give to the lesser ones known.

At first he wondered about the single parent foundation, but it had one scheduled last week which went off without a hitch. Another was a collage fund foundation, but that too had significant donations and contributions.

His mind raced as he thought, since he had been witnessed and donated to a lot of charities he knew which ones needed the extra attention then he paused and remembered Keith and the forest.

It had been ages since the Pokémon rangers and the pokemon habitat had had donations or attention given their way. While Lysander personality donated both time and money to them he knew they were going without as not many people find their work important to the point it’s as if they do not exist.

“Yes, they most definitely would benefit from this charity event” though Lysander then said “Why don’t we dedicate this event the Pokémon rangers?”,

“The Pokemon rangers? I have forgotten about them” admitted Malva as she thought then added “Why not?”,

“They work hard so we should give them the attention” agreed Diantha “Maybe I can get some of my co-stars and even champions to join”,

“I can get some vendors and permits for the area we can host the party” added Lysander,

“Area?” asked Diantha then added “What do you have in mind?”,

“Nothing, just leave it to me” said Lysander mysteriously.

Why was that human just so fascinating?

That question ran through Xerneas head as he made his way through the forest checking on trees, healing the land, making sure the berries grew large and plentiful.

One thing that spread above all was flowers. Large, small, of every color of the rainbow, everywhere he wanted they grew all around. 

Which became a problem as he was almost caught several times when he accidentally made flowers bloom out of nowhere in front of some trainers leaving them confused and rather panicked at the strange phenomena.

While always happy to spread such beauty Xerneas could not help but notice that the most amount of flowers and the most beautiful was when he was thinking of Lysander. 

When he heard about him from the fletchlings and Pidgey, saying how he always gave them the best seeds and berries. How he had flowers planted and areas made for all the fairy and bug type pokemon. That among many others things, the more Xerneas heard the more it made his heart soar.

The pokemon of the forest seemed to notice this and began to relegate more and more stories. Probably because they wanted more berries.

With a sigh Xerneas felt as though he was flying only to almost slam against a tree due to his daydreaming. 

“Ow” winced Xerneas before he noticed some sounds up ahead. Ignoring the pain he moved quickly to investigate the sounds to find an open area in the forest being prepared by humans.

Moving closer yet remaining hidden Xerneas got a closer look.

The group of humans were busy putting up these strange objects on the trees that lit up when turned on by a fire he could not see, tables were placed and cloth of sorts were added. With great care they worked turning an already beautiful area even more beautiful without ruining the existing flora.

He admired the work before turning to leave, making up his mind to return later as he intended to see what the humans were going to do in the area.

“Ma Biche” he heard making himself groan mentally. Turning he forced a smile as he faced Yvelta who moved closer.

“What a nice surprise Yvelta” said Xerneas trying to force nice polite voice.

“I am glad to hear that for I do have a surprise” said Yvelta, his voice husky and purring, he moved to reveal several Phantump pokemon, the little ones were terrified as they approached Xerneas, each and every one holding gold nuggets, comet shards and even pearls.

Moving closer Xerneas felt pity when one of them dropped the gold nugget and flee, disappearing somewhere in the forest.

“Poor dears” lamented Xerneas softly then glared at Yvelta “What did you do to them?!”,

“They serve me”,

“And they are hurt and terrified, have you been hurting them too?” accused Xerneas angrily as he stepped foreward, determined to protect the Phantumps.

“Ma Biche” began Yvelta, a dangerous warning tone approaching his voice,

“I am not your-“

Xerneas felt his breath leave his lungs as he was thrown back against a tree, it broke and Xerneas lay pinned there by Yvelta who pressed his wings against his neck.

Xerneas lay there, frozen and terrified, moving away Yvelta said “Look at what you did, if you had not made me mad I would not have hurt you” reaching for Xerneas again he noticed the deer legendary Pokémon flinch “Ma biche, I love you so much, please come back and be mine”

Trembling somehow Xerneas managed to unleash a powerful moonblast sending Yvelta back, once free he got unto his hooves and ran off as quickly as he could.

“You are mine!” he heard Yvelta say, this made Xerneas run even faster.

Watching Xerneas fleeing form Yvelta growled frustrated at his constant rejections before turning to a phantump to his on a bush. Grabbing at the little one he growled at it “Follow him! Report to me everything!”

The sun began to set when xerneas left the cave he had been hiding in. With a sigh he looked up at the moon and wondered when was Yvelta going to leave him be.

“Have I not been clear enough?” He wondered then shook his head, he knew he had been extra clear and had made it even more obvious with his actions.

Yet the dark Pokémon of death could not seem to take no for an answer.

With a sigh he looked up at the full moon and began to reminisce. Yvelta was not always like that, he was kind, generous, would never intentionally hurt anybody. But….

He winced as he remembered the last time. He had been beaten up so badly by Yvelta that Zygard had to intervene and scare Yvelta away, once scared away Xerneas was forced to put himself in his sleep state to heal due to the extensive damage done. Even now despite all the years Xerneas could feel the pain of the injured caused by Yvelta.

With a heavy sigh Xerneas continued his walk only to jump when he heard loud explosions on the sky. Looking up again he saw colorful lights exploding and lighting up the area.

“Wow” though as he stared in amazement before remembering the human set up.

“Could it be their work?” He wondered before running to that direction to see if it was true or not.

Arriving at the area he was surprised to find it full of humans. They all seemed to be having a good time either talking or interacting, there was even Pokémon there! All of them were dressed finely and accessories that glittered.

“Wow” though Xerneas as he tried to get a closer look without being spotted.

As music sounded a tiny litleo wearing a bow tie moved and interacted with the guests before pausing, his nose twitching and making a tiny roar sound before smelling the ground and moving.

Xerneas noticing the litleo making his way over acted quick and hid further in the forest foliage.

For a minute or two Xerneas stood still, silently wondering if the litleo had decided to go elsewhere only for the Hope to be dashed when the litleo pounced through the foliage and stood before him looking quite proud before rubbing himself against Xerneas leg as a greeting with such familiarity.

Looking at the little one Xerneas could not help but say “Are you-“

The question was never finished as a voice called out “Loui!”

Quickly the litleo ran back through the foliage towards the party.

Xerneas moved closer and watched as Loui the Litleo ran to a familiar human.

“Oh so you are that same litleo” though Xerneas as he watched Lysander pick up Loui and lightly scolded him “Now don’t you wander off, I do not want to loose you again Mon ami” Loui just licked his nose making a light chuckle escape Lysanders mouth.

Heart began to flutter once more at the sight, it was just so adorable the two of them together, he even noted that Lysanders cravat color matched the bow tie color Loui was wearing.

“So cute” Xerneas mentally gushed and while he did not understand human fur? Clothing? He was not entirely sure what it was called he found that Lysander was looking quite handsome tonight. Wearing black, a red cravat, his hair was now in a low pony tail which Xerneas found made him look even better than his usual hair style.

Blushing strongly Xerneas felt a little ashamed at gushing over a human so much as if he had a baby Pokémon crush.

Crush?….

Did he have an actual have a crush?

Xerneas though, it was hard to tell as he never really been with anybody but Yvelta, that was because Yvelta insisted they were meant to be together. While he enjoyed the company back then he never really felt the same, something Yvelta could sense which led to what happened and the emergence of his more darker personality.

Now that he thought more about it, was this how it was supposed to be like? It’s so different yet nice, how would things be like if maybe he and that human could-

Xerneas shook his head he did not want to think about it for it was an impossible ask. 

“It would probably be nice” he thought glumly before deciding to settle with observing from a distance even if it hurt not being able to join.

A pair of eyes glared at the humans as they had their little party.

Sneer decorating his face “How dare they trample all over my biches forest!? I shall punish them properly for their desecration!”

Hand in hand several couples danced in the set up dance area while an orchestra played music.

Among them was Diantha and Malva who were hand in hand, dancing slowly. 

Those who did not dance just watched, all agreeing the two made for such a lovely couple.

“They are so beautiful together” gushed Mable,

“That we all agree, the perfect couple” nodded Lysander as he took a sip from his champagne flute,

“So I have to ask, when are you getting hitched?” teased Mable causing Lysander to suddenly loose his composure and almost choke on his drink.

“Ahem, pardon?”,

“You need a date for their wedding and I feel like you should know I have a couple of cousins and friends who are looking” said Mable, her eyes sparkling with mischievousness,

“No Mable, I am not interested” said Lysander in a dry tone,

“Not interested? Or have you just not moved on from the last person? Whats their name? They dump you cause your family disowned you several years back when you and Diantha ran away from home to chase your dreams” said Mable,

“I would appreciate it if you did not remind me of that” said Lysander really not amused as it was a memory he wished to forget for he really did loved that person only for them to dump him thinking he would be poor. 

“Money was all they cared, greedy little-” though Lysander bitterly as Mable said interrupting his thoughts “Not everybody is the same, you really need to give people a chance”.

Knowing she was not going to drop the subject Lysander sighted and said “Look I appreciate your concern and I promise, if I find somebody who is somewhat decent looking, selfless, sincere and loves Pokémon then I might consider it”.

Listening in Xerneas could feel his heart racing, he liked to consider himself decent looking, maybe even for humans as many of them painted him and made statues of him in the past. Sincere is most definitely a trait he has and he most definetly is selfless and loves pokemon.

“What am I doing!? Why am I thinking this way!?” Xerneas though to himself as he could feel his face turn hot at the thought that maybe he was what that human wanted when he heard Mable laugh “Just decent looking? Don’t lie to yourself, you have incredibly high standards when it comes to beauty”,

“Well I admit maybe my beauty standard are a little high and can be considered shallow… a little bit….” Lysander reluctantly admitted, which Mable considered a silent victory as she knew how stubborn and prideful Lysander was about admitting his own faults, then Lysander added “Regardless this is a big maybe but I promise I will give it a try if I find such a person, but for now I am better of alone, me, my Pokémon and my company”,

“Ly” said Mable not convinced,

“Alright then I will make you a deal, I will go out on a date with somebody of your choosing when you go out on a date with Siebold” said Lysander, barely holding back a self satisfying grin when he saw Mable’s face turn from amused to shocked to blushing red.

“What!? Hu!? No! I do not even like him!” said Mable barely able to hold back a shriek,

“Says the person who likes to watch him while he practices battling with his pokemon or goes to his restaurant to eat his specials because you know he cooks said specials himself” Lysander pointed out, if she could dish it out then she should take it!

“It’s not like that! I do not like him that way! I-“

Mable’s voice was cut off by a loud explosion.

Lysander back flared up with pain as he was thrown backwards, landing on his back due to a dark black and red blast that landed about 10 feet away from where he and Mable were standing.

Loud screams sounded as more explosions landed. People scattered, some injured, others trying to escape, the Pokémon rangers reacted and began to help try to lead everybody to safety.

“Hurry! We need to get out!” Yelled Keith as he and others led or helped carry people and Pokémon to safety.

Lysander said nothing as he got up to leave, grabbing Mable who had fallen near where he was he helped her up then help her walk when he noticed she could not hold herself up to run let alone walk. Leaning against her tall boss the scientist winced every time she tried to walk due to her leg being injured by the debris of the explosion.

A cry sounded, looking up they froze in terror as another dark blast came their way. Reacting quick Loui turned and roar, charging the ember attack even though it would probably would do nothing.

Maybe it was the love he had for his trainer.

Maybe it was his desire to protect.

Both?

Regardless of which one a bright light surrounded Loui as his body grew and change, the small fire turned into a large blaze which fired against the blast.

When collided it exploded, saving them all for now.

Loui now a Pyroar moved over, pressing against Lysander. Nodding in both thanks and understanding Lysander helped Mable unto his pokemons back, holding ontu the Pokémon for dear life Mable allowed Loui to carry her to safety while Keith and Lysander followed close behind. 

Another explosion sounded as they left the area.

This time it was not an attack, it was from the gas tank near the cooking station. Fire and sparks rained all over catching the place on fire that quickly spread.

Picking up their pace Keith, Lysander and Loui ran to make their escape, Mable just hang into dear life as Loui as they did so.

Hearing a crack Lysander paused and looked, trees began to fall.

“Watch out!” shouted Lysander, this allowed Keith and Loui to react and get out of the way as the trees fell, cutting off Lysanders escape route and separating him from the group.

“Lysander!” He heard Keith shout,

“Keep going! I will find another way!” shouted Lysander, he turned directions then winced asflames came closer and closer.

He heard some shouting he could hardly make out so he shouted “Just get out and save yourselves!” Then left, his mind racing as he thought of another way out. Taking out a pokeball he released a red Gyarados before reaching into his shirt and pulling out a silver strand with a silver ring hanging from it.

It began to spark and charge as he used the gyaradosite stone on the ring.

Light soon enveloped the gyarados as it evolved into its mega form. 

Knowing this was temporary Lysander acted fast and commanded Rouge the Gyarados to use hydropump to clear a path through the flames.

While it beraly did anything as the fire had gotten too big it did do the job in clearing a path for the most part to allow them through.

It also allowed them to access and aid whatever Pokémon they found trapped in the flames, allowing for their safe escape.

As they made their way through Lysander felt hope that they could get out of it without harm as he and Rouge were determined to survive.

Sadly that hope was soon squashed.

A loud explosion sounded as dark beam hit Rouge, knocking him out instantly and knocking Lysander down, injuring him due to his proximity to the attack. Trying to up yet failing his eyes darted between Rouges pokeball and the necklace containing the mega ring.

Reaching Lysander took the pokeball first and recalled Rougue back into the pokeball where he would be safe before trying to reach for the necklace only to pause when he felt a terrifying presence looming over him.

With his breathing shallow and coughing, eyes burning he turned and saw a figure through the fire, shadow, smoke, darkness enveloped it.

Never had he seen something so terrifying in his life.

What was it?!

It was a Pokémon, but non he had ever seen before.

Its wings expanded, flames and smoke seemed to grow as it approached Lysander as his sight grew darker and his breaths became shallower and shallower.

Was this it?

Was this the end?

A loud cry was heard followed by a bright light.

Yvelta yelled as he was hit with a powerful moonblast that sent him flying back and crashing against trees.

Running over Xerneas quickly scooped Lysander into its back and ran away, determined to save him from both the flames and Yvelta.

Going fast and jumping over fallen burning trees Xerneas made his way through the burning forest, finding a river which separated the burning forest from safety he carefully crossed it. The water rose up to his neck as he walked, the currents rushed pass him strong, every now and then he looked at his back to make sure an unconscious Lysander would not be swept up by the waters.

Finally he felt himself rise, leaving the water and reaching dry land.

Taking a moment he looked back and felt sorrow as he saw his forest completely engulfed in flames. What should have been a happy time turned into a disaster as Yveltas terrible actions caused so much harm.

“Why did he do it?” Xerneas lamented with a sad sigh, the only comfort that he could find was that at least all of the Pokémon had managed to escape the forest unharmed as a lot of them had abandoned the forest due to Yveltas constant presence, before turning to look at Lysander who remained unconscious in his back, only now he was drenched and shivering from the cold water.

“Let’s get you somewhere safe okay….” Though Xerneas as he moved, walking away from the fire covered forest and hopefully to a much more safer place.

The sun has started to rise when Xerneas reached a nearby human dwelling. Laying down at the ground under a sycamore tree Xerneas caught his breath and rested a bit after that harrowing ordeal before checking on Lysander.

He was still unconscious, but alive, his suit had been burned here and there, he himself had some ash clinging into his face and hands but overall seemed to be okay.

“I am so sorry Yvelta did that, I do not know what got into him” said Xerneas as he pressed his head against Lysanders “But it’s okay, your safe now, I won’t let anything bad happen to you”

For a moment he wished Lysander would wake up at that instant, look at him, maybe give him one of those rare smiles Xerneas had seen.

It was a happy thought, one that was interrupted by noises, somebody was coming.

Sadness crept into Xerneas as he knew he could not be spotted by other humans so it meant that he would have to leave Lysander alone.

Even if it was for the best as Humans would be able to help him.

Moving carefully Xerneas allowed Lysander to slide down his back to the ground before taking off and hiding in the woods to watch.

From his hiding spot he noticed a pyroar running over, it pounced on Lysander who gagged and seemed to wake up followed by coughing frantically.

Behind the pyroar Humans came over, they wore the orange bluish black uniforms of Pokémon rangers, they looked relieved upon seeing Lysander.

One of them who Xerneas recognized as Keith handed Lysander a strange mask with a tube on it before he and another helped Lysander move. The pyroar followed behind them, for a moment it looked back, directly at Xerneas.

Was he spotted? 

Did the pokemon know?

“Loui!” A call made the Pyroar focus on the group and followed the ones helping Lysander get to the human settlement. The ones who stayed behind began to look around for other survivors or injured Pokémon.

Glad to know he would be okay Xerneas turned and went further into the forest. While he knew he had a lot of work to do to restore the forest and help Pokemon his mind refused to stop thinking about that single human.

As he made his way through the burned forest he stopped when he noticed something glinting at the distance. 

Walking over he used his hooves to move the ashes around to discover it was a silver necklace with a silver ring on it and a strange stone attached to it.

“Curious” though Xerneas as he bend down and gently moved the ring as to get a closer look when he noticed that inside the ring it had a name engraved on it.

Lysander Fleur-de-lis.

“Oh, he must have dropped it” though Xerneas as he bend down and picked up the necklace.

Maybe he could give it back, how to do that he was not sure, but what he was sure about is that Lysander would like to have it back.

Laying down in the hospital room he was given Lysander had an oxigen mask placed over him as he had medicine administered to combat the damage caused by smoke inhalation.

With his head resting he could not help but think back, his mind replaying what he had experienced over and over.

While he could not remember much what happened after encountering that beast there was several key details that he did remember before he was found.

Mostly flashes of blue, black and white, the feeling of somebody comforting him, a voice saying “Your safe now, I won’t let anything bad happen to you”

It replayed in his mind over and over like a broken record. Infecting his very being as he wondered who was the owner of the voice, he would like to know.

“To thank them” finished Lysander while he felt warm at the thought of somebody out there being so selfless to risk his or her life to save him who was a complete stranger.

A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts, looking he saw Malva, Diantha and Mable walk in. Diantha seemed to be well, dressed impeccably with a dark coat, hat and sunglasses, Malva had her hands and part of her left arm all bandaged up, Mables leg was in a cast and she was using crutches to walk. All three looked relieved to see him.

“Thank auras! Now I do not have to update my resume” joked Malva, Lysander could not help but sigh at that.

Yep, that was Malva, but still her eyes spoke more of her true feelings, she truly was glad he was okay.

“Sir, I feared we lost you” said Mable then finished “with all due respect it was stupid what you did”,

“What was stupid for you was smart for me, I am still alive” said Lysander then coughed a little,

“Ya with lung damage” said Malva only to wince when she was elbowed by Diantha.

“How is everybody?” asked Lysander,

“Okay, we all got out okay, but the forest” Dianthas voice trailed off sadly.

 Lysander understood as he sighted “What a disaster”,

“It was not your fault or any bodies, there were many reports of a large dark Pokémon causing what happened for whatever reason” explained Mable “We are looking into it, for whatever it is it’s hostile to both humans and Pokémon”.

Lysander and began to wonder if maybe the party being there caused the Pokemon to be angry and lash out or if the Pokemon was just mad then asked “Did you find them?”,

“Find who?” asked Malva,

“Somebody else was there, they helped me escape alive” explained Lysander.

There was silence for a bit as the three looked at one another before Diantha explained “You were found alone with nobody around… are you sure there was somebody there?”

Lysander though, his mind going back, trying to remember better, to give a face to the one who saved him, but other than a flash of blue, black and white, that voice, there was nothing.

“Yes, I did not see them clearly, but I did hear them” nodded Lysander,

“I think you hit your head” said Malva only to be elbowed again by Diantha before Diantha interjected 

“What did they say?”,

“That it was okay, that they were not going to let anything bad happen to me” said Lysander,

“And he or she just left? Why not stay?” asked Mable finding it strange,

“Not sure” said Lysander disappointed, for he would like to personally thank whoever saved him.

“Wherever he or she is we will find them” promised Diantha wanting to cheer her friend up a bit.

Lysander breathed, nodded his thanks, the medication making him feel a little strange and tired. As he lay his head back down he closed his eyes, falling into a fitful sleep leaving Mable, Malva and Diantha alone to discuss this new mystery.

Who was the mysterious savior?

Days continued to pass, seasons changed once more, where there had been bright green was now replaced with yellow, gold, orange and red. 

Moving around the forest which had been burnt Xerneas busy trying to restore it. Hoping that once back to normal his fellow Pokemon friends would come back.

So far it seems to not be working as even when the forest grew back the Pokemon had not returned leaving Xerneas feeling very lonely and allowing his thoughts to drift back. Even more now as he noticed how the leaves reminded him of Lysander.

Shaking his head Xerneas tried to forget, reminding himself that whatever he was feeling towards that human was no good and even remembering that Lysander was gone.

Gone.

The house he had escorted Loui the now Pyroar had been empty for a while. Every so often he would sneak over at night and looked at the house, mail pilled up, the garden grew wild. Not a single sign of life to be found.

After a bit Xerneas gave up and stopped visiting, knowing fully well that there was nobody at that house anymore.

Humans did come and go, mostly the Pokémon Rangers trying to restore the forest. Xerneas helped by using his power when the rangers were not looking but again as before there was no Lysander and even more strangely no Keith either leaving Xerneas puzzled as to where he went off to.

With a sad sigh Xerneas went further into the forest, found a sycamore tree and lay down besides it. Not because he was tired per se, but that he was sad.

“I wish” began Xerneas but stopped as he knew it was such a foolish wish.

He was a being of eternal life, while he gave life and restored forest it sadly meant he would always out live anybody he got close. It has been like that for many years, so why would that change?

His melancholy was disrupted by the call of Floettes and Fletchlings. Looking up his sadness all but vanished when they descended from the sky and surrounded him.

“I missed you all so” declared Xerneas “I feared the worst happened”.

They all chattered and squealed, words mixing in as they were all trying to talk at once. But before Xerneas could ask them what they wanted to say he felt the Floettes grab his horns and start to pull while the bird Pokémon began to peck and push her back. Wanting him to follow them somewhere.

Curiosity grew even more at this so Xerneas followed with not a single word spoken.

Wondering where they were taking him.

Making their way out of the ruined forest he followed the fairy and bird Pokémon pass several rivers, over natural formed bridges made out of the very nature itself, into a cave then finally through a new forest Xerneas had not seen in a long time.

“Wow” he thought as the sun began to set giving the autumn atmosphere a much more enchanting look.

Soon they came upon a large stone building set in the middle of the forest, further away Xerneas could spot the parfum palace and secretly wondered if this building was once part of that palace.

Moving closer he noticed there was movement in one of the many balconies. His eyes widen as he noticed it was Lysander and Loui.

While Lysander be rather gloomy and pensive, pacing around the balcony deep in though, Loui faithfully followed behind, worried about Lysander.

Turning to look at the Floettes and Fletchlings, Xernead was left at a loss of how to thank them as it was clear they had gone through a great deal of trouble for this.

The waved at him happily before leaving. Watching them go Xerneas though “Thank you” before moving to get a closer look while hiding among the shrubbery and greenery of the forest.

A year.

He was given a year, maybe a year and a couple of months if he was lucky.

Pacing around the balcony Lysander replayed what the doctor said about the test results.

“Your lungs and heart are extremely damaged, it’s as if they had been aged over night” the doctor said as he showed the test results and x-rays.

The only hope he had was to receive both a lung and a heart transplant. Both which Lysander knew would be impossible for two very glaring facts, the first being that finding a compatible donor would be impossible as he had a rare blood type called Rh-null blood type or better known as Golden blood due to how extremely rare it is. Second even if they found a match there was not a chance they could find lungs or a heart that would fit. So overall he was more likely to see Arceus or any legendary face to face than he was likely to receive a compatible transplant.

The look on his doctors face while he broke the news was hard as it was getting the news then suggested that maybe moving to a place with better quality air would help extend his life a bit and ease his lungs suffering. Get comfortable for the inevitable end and to make the most of it.

Following the doctors orders Lysander packed up and went to a place where he could get both air and be comfortable.

This place was The petite chateau, had been in his family for many generations, reaching far back to the old king of Kalos. And quite frankly it was the only place where Lysander felt happy in his childhood, his parents would drop him off and leave to who knows where allowing Lysander freedom to run around and get lost in the forest, pick berries or go fishing, play with the kids in the nearby town who more often than not had no idea who he was. It was a good time.

When his parents company went bankrupt he quickly bought the petit chateau from them. While angry they needed the money hence why they agreed to give it to him and quite frankly it was the only thing Lysander wanted from them.

Being in that place now was working wonders, it had been a couple of days since he had an episode and his heart rate has calm down. Even he himself felt calm while thinking about what steps he should take and how to tell Diantha, Keith, Malva and Mable that he would not be around much longer. What was he going to do with his company? His workers? What would become of them?

With a sigh Lysander knew he had to tell them and make plans but… how?

Looking at Loui who whined, showing concerned, Lysander bend down and patted his head. Knowing full well that he would not be able to do that soon. Worse he did not want to think what Loui would do when he one day left and never returned.

Sure he knew Malva and Diantha would care for him and his Pokémon, they always spoil them, but there was a difference between them staying a bit vs permanently.

“Loui” began Lysander softly when the Pyroars head suddenly perked up, his nose twitched here and there, as if he caught a scent of something.

“Loui? What is it?” asked Lysander, the next thing he knew Loui took off like a bullet, running down the side stairs of the balcony to the garden only to run back up, latch into Lysander and drag him.

“Louis! What has gotten into you!?” Demanded Lysander as this was so uncharacteristic of him, pulling his arm free Louis refused to give up and proceeded to head butt and push Lysander as if saying “Come on! Come on!” As he lead him to the gardens and closer to the edge of the forest.

Stopping he huffed and whined, looking between Lysander and the forest.

At first Lysander thought Loui was seeing prey or something, even though he could not see anything other than trees. But just as he was going to point it out a snap stopped him.

Loui whined again, it was not fear, rather anticipation, like a child waiting to get a gift from Santa.

Looking back at the forest it was when Lysander sensed it. A sort of change in the air, it had gotten heavier, the smell of flowers and pine seemed to intensify while there was a hint of a berry flavor he could almost taste every time he took a breath.

Felt a bit refreshing and made the dull ache he had gotten familiar with sooth a little.

Moving closer he felt the change grow stronger along with a strange feeling that he and Loui were not alone.

There was somebody there, watching them.

“Hello?” Lysander called out, his muscles tense in case it was an intruder looking to do harm. “is there somebody there?”.

Silence.

“Look I know you’re there! Make yourself known or my Pyroar will set you on fire!” Warned Lysander.

Soon a voice spoke

“No! No! I am not a threat!”

The words escaped Xerneas before he could stop himself. Silencing himself he hoped it was just something he said in his head and not out loud.

Either good or bad luck it seems it was not the case as Lysander called out “Who are you?”

Hearing those words made Xerneas heart beat faster, for a second he hesitated, never had he been so tongue tied before, opening his mouth he said “I apologize, I… I just wanted to see you”.

Lysander did not answer, he was still there as he could hear his breathing before Lysander said “You? Want to see me?”,

“Yes I…. I was worried about you, after the fire, I just wanted to make sure you were okay” spoke Xerneas as he prayed that his heart beat could not be heard from how fast it was beating.

He often wondered how it would go if they ever got to talk to one another, while this was not how he imagined things would go, he was still glad that it was happening.

Then added “I am glad that your litleo is okay as well, he is a cutie, even if he is not little anymore”

A light chuckle escaped Lysander as he said “He is still a baby in his own way, give him praises and head pats and he will roll over and melt in your arms”,

“That sounds nice” laughed Xerneas then froze as he could feel Lysander walking closer to where he was hiding.

Moving further into the forest Xerneas stayed hidden even though Lysander walked into the forest, his eyes scanning around the area. Looking for him.

“Sir, I am sorry, I have to go”,

“Go? Now?” asked Lysander puzzled as he looked around “Where are you?”,

“I…. It’s complicated…. I have to go” said Xerneas as he turned to flee, somehow tripping over his own hooves as he left.

“Wait! I will see you again!?” he heard Lysanders voice call out, it slowed him down before Xerneas said “Tomorrow! We will talk tomorrow!” Then hurried up, his steps now felt as though he was flying as he left the forest, his heart full and his mind giddy with happiness.

Loud thunder sounded as a storm passed through the area. Holding a candle Lysander walked around the petit chateau, checking the windows, doors and fireplaces to make sure nothing was open.

With the lightd haven gone out and the place being isolated Lysander was being extra careful.

“Okay, living room, dinning room, am I missing-“

A loud knock at the front door stopped his musing.

Holding the candle to the direction of the front door Lysander did not dare to move then jumped when he heard a second knock, louder this time.

Quietly Lysander walked to the foyer where the front door was. Leaning against the door he peeked outside to see a massive figure standing outside.

For a second Lysander was paralyzed, while he himself is tall, almost 8 feet tall, this person was even taller than he was.

Looking at the lock he debated on whether to open the door or not. On one hand it was not safe and he had no idea who this stranger was, on the other the storm was getting worse outside and it would be cruel to leave anybody out in this kind of terrible weather.

After not much thinking Lysander reached and opened the door a bit, looking outside the figure towered over him, its form covered in old torn clothes, long hair a mess, looked very much like a homeless person.

Bending down the old man began “Sir” his voice soft, trembling from the cold “Could you please grand me shelter for tonight?”

The first thing about his talking that Lysander noted was that his manner of speaking while polite was very much out of place, like his speaking would be considered something out of old times.

“I only need one night, just till the weather clears in the morning” said the old man as he put his sack bag down and opened it, began to rummage through it.

After a bit he took out and held the most unusual flower Lysander had ever seen.

It was star shaped sort off, three large red petals and three smaller ones, had black underside and black stem on top. 

“Such a peculiar flower” thought Lysander to himself.

“It’s in exchange for letting me stay the night, I don’t have anything, but this flower is my most precious item and worth a lot to me” explained the man.

While Lysander was not interested in the flower he knew he was not cruel enough to turn this old man away, especially when such terrible weather was happening, so he opened the door further, allowing the man to enter the home.

Quietly the old man entered, inside Lysander could not help but stare. This man was massive!

Water dripped into the foyer while he shivered a bit, “Follow me” said Lysander, the man followed quietly through the home till they reached the library where a massive fire in the fireplace was.

The man seemed almost too relieved to see that as he walked over and sat before the fire. Letting it warm and dry him a bit.

For a second Lysander left then came back with towels he grabbed from one of the guest bathrooms.

Taking them the mystery man nodded his thank you before using them to dry himself. As he did Lysander watched before asking “Who are you?”,

Stopping the man seemed to think before saying “AZ, my brother used to live here”.

This took Lysander by surprise as nobody but his family has lived in this chateau and he was extra sure his father did not have a brother.

Shaking his head Lysander said “I think there is a mistake, the people who have lived here are my family for many generations”.

The old man gave him a look, like he wanted to say something but decided against it. Nodding he turned back to stare at the fire.

Leaving for a second time Lysander came back with some coffee and a sandwhich, not much but it was the best he could do as he had no electrify to cook a proper meal at the moment.

The man did not seem to mind as he nodded his thanks, ate the sandwhich and drank the coffee.

When done Lysander asked “Would you follow me?” 

Taking his time AZ nodded before following Lysander across the house to a room.

Entering he looked around, nodded and said “Thank you”

Turning around Lysander left but not before releasing Loui from his pokeball and instructing him to keep an eye on AZ.

Storm cloud dissipated as morning arrived. Opening the front door AZ stepped out, Lysander behind him.

“You can stay another day if you want” offered Lysander after a bit, feeling sorry for the man, but AZ shook his head “I have to keep going, I need to find my friend”.

Then turned and held out the flower, Lysander shook his head “Keep it, I don’t need any payment”.

“I insist, maybe it might serve you well someday” said AZ as he all but forced it into Lysanders hand before picking up his bag and leaving.

For a while Lysander stood there, watching AZ walk away till he disappeared somewhere on the horizon.

Turning around Lysander walked back inside, flower in hand and having experienced the most strange encounter.

Lights danced around the inside of a container, outside Mable had a clip board and was taking notes as the computer processed the information of the scan performed on the strange flower.

Behind her Lysander watched, while he maintained a serious and stoic look he deep down was rather curious and fascinated about the flower, secretly wondering what it is and what secrets it holds.

When done Mables eyes widen a little before tapping on the computer “Auras” she whispered,

“What is it?” asked Lysander, hoping that hearing that Mable would be more willing to give more info.

“Several things, first off there is no record of such a flower existing so it means we are either dealing with a completely new undiscovered species of flower or one that has been extinct many ages ago” said Mable as she walked over to the container, with a gentle hand she took and held it close then joked “Wanna call it the Lysander flower if it’s new?”,

“Very funny” said Lysander not amused then asked “And the other?”, with a light laugh Mable continued “The computer also is detecting a strange energy source coming from the flower along with an unknown component, it cannot tell what it is, but it is organic…. Pokémon in nature”.

Listening Lysander though for a bit before asking “Pokemon? As in Pokemon remains?”,

“Yes but it cannot tell what it is, my best guess is either remains of a Flabebe or Floette” theorized Mable “but it has some differences that makes the results inconclusive”,

“That is only logical, it’s the only Pokemon that uses flowers for transport or anything” though Lysander then really thought and asked “Inconclusive?”,

“Yes, the computer cannot really tell” said Mable then asked “Do you mind if I keep it for a week or so? In that time I can make some clone seeds from the flower, maybe start growing some”,

“Alright, but just make sure they will not be some kind of invasive flora” warned Lysander,

“Thank you, I will keep in touch if I find anything else and-“ Mable stopped when she noticed something off about Lysander.

Walking closer she stared, really stared at him, making the taller man a bit uncomfortable before he asked “What?”,

“Are you okay?” asked Mable, her tone with a little concern,

“Yes, why wouldn’t I be?” asked Lysander, his tone more harsher than he meant it to sound,

“You sure, you seem a little off today” said Mable then added “Your hair style is different”,

“I wanted to try something new” said Lysander, his voice a little weak towards the end, mentally demanding Mable to drop it so he can leave right away.

Mable stared, she did not look convinced but turned back to the computer and said “I will keep in touch”.

With a nod Lysander turned and left, his posture composed, his stride perfect as always as he left the Lumious Research center. Once outside he walked, every now and then he took pained breaths, mentally Lysander said “Don’t break”, he repeated that over and over in his mind like a mantra.

Arriving to Lysanders cafe he entered, walking pass the customers and workers, walked over to his office. Opened it and closed the door behind him. Once alone he broke.

Painful coughs he had been keeping in broke through followed by red. Running to the private bathroom of his office Lysander left a trail of red, practically threw himself at the toilet, barely opening it before he proceeded to cough and hack, spitting out blood and saliva, his body shaking and trembling, each cough brought fresh pain, wheezing and choking with every breath he desperately tried to take.

With trembling fingers he blindly reached into the messenger bag he always carried with him now. Taking out a cylindrical container, a mask attached to it.

Pressing the mask against his mouth/nose Lysander turned on the valve, taking slow and deep breaths in between violent coughs. 

Little by little the coughs subsided, the episode ending. Taking a couple more slow breaths Lysander composed himself. Turning the valve he closed and hid the container in the bag before getting up and staggering to the bathroom sink.

Looking up at the mirror he grimace, his blood and saliva covered his mouth, dripping down his face, chin and neck.

With a sigh he turned on the water and proceeded to clean himself, making a mental note that at least it was not as bad as the first time when blood got all over his hair. Took over an hour to clean himself making Diantha and Malva suspicious when he was taking too long in the bathroom. 

Turning off the water he ran his hair back, putting a couple of stray strands back in place and tighten his hair band that kept his hand in a low pony tail. Grabbing a towel he dried his face and hands before leaving the bathroom.

Noticing the trail of blood he went to his desk and got out the cleaning supplies he left behind. Quickly he cleaned up the blood then put the cleaning supplies away. After that was done he moved and straighten himself and his clothes before leaving the office.

In the cafe he noticed the crowds have thinned out a bit which made him wonder how long had the episode lasted.

Shaking the thought out of his head Lysander left the cafe, making his way home.

While walking he debated on whether he should just call a cab or take the train home. A cab is faster and more comfortable, a train had more scenic routes and a nice pleasant walk.

In truth the mental debate was more of a distraction as he did not want to think about what was actually going through his head.

The fact that the episodes were getting worse meant he probably had less time left to live than what the doctor had initially predicted.

There was also the fact that he had not told anybody yet. One part due to not knowing how to tell Diantha, Malva, Keith and Mable, the other part was perhaps pride.

Knowing that he would be looked at differently and even treated differently made him feel a certain negative way.

Yes it was foolish.

Yes it was selfish.

But his pride was something Lysander wanted to keep. If he was going to die then he wanted to die with his pride and dignity intact.

“Lysander” he heard causing him to stop walking, he had been so caught up with his mental thoughts he had not noticed Diantha had spotted him and had been walking after him, trying to get his attention.

“Diantha” nodded Lysander with a greeting, Diantha frowned, the same one Mable had, she could sense something was off but was not sure what.

“Are you okay?” She began,

“I am fine” lied Lysander, a lie which Diantha could sense as she insisted “Are you sure? You have been acting off lately”,

“Has she been talking to Mable? Or did she notice?” He thought but said “I am okay, just a lot in my mind”.

This brought a frown on Dianthas face, she was not convinced at all but said “Going home?”,

“Yes, it’s been a long day” nodded Lysander,

“Let me walk you half way there” offered Diantha, 

“Shouldn’t I be the one to offer that to you?” Lysander could not help but say, a rare light hearted joke.

“Please, between me and you you know I can kick your butt” laughed Diantha,

“I remember well, I have yet to defeat you in a Pokémon battle” laughed Lysander,

“Because you insist on using dark types despite the fact that you know they are weak against fairy types” Diantha pointed out before they continued to walk.

During that they talked about the going on, how Diantha was staring in a new mystery crime movie called the murder in Galar express, Lysander about the new collaboration he accepted with rotom phones.

It was normal, it was nice, something Lysander did not know he needed considering what was going to come.

“Oh and almost forgot” Diantha said with glee as she reached into her luxurious black purse and pulled out an envelope.

Taking it Lysander noted the fancy black and gold trim, gold lettering of his name, turning it the opened it and took out the content which revealed to be an invite to a wedding.

“I wanted to give it to you personally” said Diantha then asked “Along with asking you to be my man of honor”.

Reading over it Lysander was happy for Malva and Diantha, the two were always close and had been dating a long time so it was well known that it was only a matter of time before the tied the knot and made it official.

Then he saw the date, spring of next year, a reminder of how close he is to death. While it was a couple of months away there was always the possibility that his condition would be worse by that time.

Noticing the change Diantha asked “What’s wrong?”,

“Nothing, nothing, I am happy and I would be honored” said Lysander quickly stuffing the letter into his bag “Look I really have to go, I have some things to do”.

Turning he was ready to leave before Diantha pried too much when he felt her grab his arm. Forcing him to stay.

“Lysander….. something is wrong… isn’t it?” She began, her tone hesitant but firm.

Lysander dared not answer that, he felt torn between lying or telling the truth.

As if sensing this Diantha continued “Remember all those years back? When you went to that dark place?”.

He froze even more hearing that, how could he forget? It was when his company had gained success and he was named one of the most powerful and youngest CEO of Kalos history, it was featured all over magazines and gossip columns. When his parents found out they tried to force their way back into his life, demanding money, support, his time, that he owed them for being born their son.

When they did not get it they slandered his name, calling him a leech, accusing him of being power hungry and many other awful things.

People believed and began to treat him like he was a criminal, it broke him more than he cared to admit to know that after all the good he did, all the charities he supported, the people he helped, that they would turn around and do that to him.

His mind began to spiral, his depression got worse, he….

If it had not been for Diantha, Malva, Mable, Keith and a lot of his workers who either defended him or helped him he dared not to think what he would have done.

They gave him hope, made him see the light when all he saw was darkness but now….

“Soon I will leave them” thought Lysander sadly.

He felt Diantha grip tighten, but more as comfort than anything else, “You know you can talk to me right, to us…. If there is anything wrong, I promise you have people who will be there for you, you know that right?” She said softly, nodding Lysander said “I know… I just… have a lot on my mind”,

“Alright” said Diantha as she let go then finished “We are here when you need us”.

With a nod Lysander turned and continued his way. Now feeling even worse than before as the guilt of the secret he was keeping was starting to eat him alive.

The sun was starting set when Lysander made it back to the petit Chateu. Pausing in front of the front door he turned around and went back, going through the side gate of the chateau leading to the garden.

Walking pass the manicured gardens, vegetables and berry bush patches Lysander found a comfortable place to sit by the fountain.

With a sigh he closed his eyes trying to process today’s events when he noticed something. A change.

How the air seemed to become more fragrant, a little fruity taste on the back of his throat.

Opening his eyes Lysander looked around for the source, he knew who it was even if he had never seen him in person.

“You there?” asked Lysander out loud as he stared into the forest, the thick trees hiding the identity of his new mysterious.

Friend? Could he be? He had saved Lysanders life, seemed to know him, but at the same time had remained an allusive figure.

Lysander did not even know how the person looked like or where he lived.

Could it be possible for somebody to be both a stranger and a friend?

“Yes, I am here, been waiting for a while” he heard somebody respond from somewhere in the forest then joked “I was about to think that you had grown tired of me”,

“Me? Tired of you? I doubt it” said Lysander with a light chuckle,

“Awww have you started to like me?” cooed the voice playfully.

So childish!

Yet at the same time endearing, had kinda a charm to it.

“Maybe” responded Lysander then added “It’s been a long day”,

“Want to talk about it? I am all ears and I don’t gossip” said the voice,

“Since when? Last time I checked your all talk” chuckled Lysander,

“I can listen! Try me” whined the voice a little hurt at the accusation,

“I am sorry, I did not mean to insult” said Lysander then continued “I had a lot to do and a lot on my mind, one of the things is my friends and cousins wedding”,

“A wedding? How nice, never been to one, but I have seen them from afar” commented the voice,

“They want me to be their man of honor” continued Lysander “Potentially bring somebody with me as a plus one” he stopped there as he dare not admit that he was worried that he would not be in a good state when the wedding arrived.

“Do you have somebody in mind?” asked the voice curious.

Lysander though then admitted “Not really, I don’t have many friends or anybody close like that, I admit I can be a cold and too blunt sometimes, it scares people away”.

There was silence, as if the voice was thinking then said “You did not scare me away”.

To that Lysander laughed “I did not, to be fair I was worried I would have made you leave at some point”,

“I will never leave, not unless you want me too” said the voice with such tender sincerity, it seemed to stir something inside of Lysander.

What it was he was not sure, but it felt really nice and made him feel warm.

“I have to go, but can I come back sometimes?” asked the voice,

“Your always welcomed” Lysander Answered then added “I like talking to you”,

“Me too….” Said the voice “Bye” the strange atmosphere seemed to dissipate, probably because the person had left.

Getting up from where he was seated he walked over to the back door of the petit chateau, took out a key from his pocket, opened it and entered the chateau. For a second he looked back at the forest, towards where he heard the voice before closing the door behind him.

A couple of weeks later:

Dirt was moved around as Lysander dug a couple of holes in the chateaus green house. While he was not much of a gardener he always wondered what it was like to grow his own so he decided to at give it a try.

“One less thing I want to experience before I die” thought Lysander to himself in a dark humor as he planted the clone seeds Mable had given him.

She made a whole bunch of them, though she kept half before giving the other half to Lysander along with the flower.

“Hopefully they grow” thought Lysander as he finished planting them when he felt the strange change of atmosphere again meaning his most mysterious companion had returned.

Leaving the greenhouse with the flower in hand Lysander approached the forest, stopping just a bit outside its border.

He waited in silence, usually the stranger would start the conversation first, but this time they remained quiet which was very not like them.

After a bit Lysander began “Why do you hide?”, this question seem to catch the voice by surprise as they stammered out a response “I… Hu… what?”,

“Hide, while we talk I have never seen you in person” elaborated Lysander as he held the flower in his hands with a deep breath he finished “I’d like to see you, face to face”

Silence followed.

“Would you like to come inside? Have some coffee”,

“I can’t….” The voice finally answered, laced with sorrow.

“Why?” asked Lysander, hiding a bit of frustration as he could not understand why whoever it was was hiding. It really made no sense, was he some kind of criminal? Maybe ugly? He doubted as the voice and mannerism sounded too nice to belong to somebody ugly.

“It’s complicated….” The voice said sadly as Lysander got closer, hoping to sneak a glimpse of who the person was.

“How so?” asked Lysander walking closer, hoping to catch the person by surprise.

Normally it was not something he would do, but he would be lying if he said he was not dying of curiosity. He wanted to know once and for all who this person was or at least how he looked like. Surely somebody as kind had to be as equally beautiful, if not he was still a person worth knowing for Lysander had never met another person besides the ones he knows that is so kind and sincere. A person like this is always worth having in his life.

“It’s…. I am sorry!” Lysander heard movement, acting fast he ran over but was disappointed to find there was nobody.

Whoever it was had vanished leaving Lysander disappointed.

With a sigh he turned and went back to the chateau, never realizing he had dropped the mysterious flower.

Night had arrived when Xerneas returned to the petit chateau, looking at the home from the forest he noticed the lights were off which meant that Lysander was either away or sleeping.

A sad sigh escaped Xerneas, his mind replaying what happened.

It’s not that he did not want to, he wished he could. But he knew what might happen if Lysander knew he was not human. 

The very thought of never seeing him again….

He rather not think about.

With a sad sigh Xerneas turned to leave when he spotted something strange on the ground.

Curious he walked over to get a closer look, it was a flower, the same strange red and black flower he had seen Lysander holding.

“He must have dropped it by accident” Xerneas though as he bend down and smelled it.

A floral smell and…. Something else…. Hit his nose.

Narrowing his eyes at it Xerneas smelled again before his eyes widen. He knew that smell!

Something that was alive back then….

That could be alive again…. Potentially…

“ I wonder….” Though Xerneas as his antlers began to glow, many rainbow color lights began to appear and dance around the flower, lifting it up as if began to glow.

Little by little a form began to appear on the flower, at first a little blob with no defining shape, but as the light concentrated it began to take shape, a small but strange Pokémon, its upper body white but bottom half pink in color, around its head it had red pollen spheres forming a crown around its head.

Xerneas stared at it in awe, but then was struck with familiarity, he had seen a Pokémon similar to this once.

A soft sound interrupted that though as the strange Pokémon began to stir, opening her eyes she was startled at first even frightened when she saw Xerneas followed by being confused as she looked around as if she was not supposed to be there, but somewhere else then froze when she spotted the chateau close by.

“You alright?” asked Xerneas concerned, the Pokémon had not said a word, she just looked between him and the chateau, at first Xerneas was confused only for him to understand when he noticed her body posture, defensive, she clearly saw him as a threat and was calculating if she would be fast enough to reach the chateau.

“Ma fleur, I am not-“ Xerneas was unable to finish as the Pokémon took off like a prey being chased by predator, disappearing somewhere in the darkness of the chateau. Quite frankly Xerneas was impressed at how fast she flew on that flower.

“Ma fleur!” Xerneas called but received no answer, with a frown he hoped the little Pokémon found safety before turning around and going back to the forest as he knew there was nothing else he could do without the risk of exposing himself more than he already had.

Hiding among the many columns of the chateau the little pokemon took several breaths. Looking back at the forest every now and then as her mind processed what just happened.

Nothing made sense, how did she get in the forest?

Scratching her head she thought back, trying to remember the last thing that happened.

“No! No! No! She did not look like that! Your wrong! You’re all wrong!”

A tall man screamed at her as she lay on the ground clutching her flower, terrified and wanting nothing more than to return home to her friend Zander.

Not that it was going to happen. The king refused to let her go despite the fact that “she was wrong” as he often liked to yell at her.

“Floette! You’re a floette! Change to one!” The man yelled at her, his grief so deep that he was trying to force her to evolve, to make her… not her….

A whimper escaped, she could not evolve, she should but for some reason she could not, through she wished she did, if she did maybe she could escape the clutches of a king who went mad with grief.

Pain followed as the king hit her with his hand, being bigger and stronger it was the equivalent of human being hit with by a copperajah running full speed.

She cried out when she hit the stone ground, her body broken, as she lay there she noticed the door up ahead, it was wide open..

Maybe…

Just maybe…

Reaching out with her hands she proceeded to try to crawl out the door. Determined to escape even if it meant leaving her flower behind, since she could always get another one once she went outside, once she did she could fly away and find Zander again.

The thought of being reunited with her dear friend fueled her determination. 

She was determined now more than ever to make her escape.

She could not remember what happened after that…

Maybe she escaped…

Yes! That is what happened!

Now that she was out she can find Zander, even better this place looked like his house… sort off… did he redecorate? He did always complained that he got crumbling ruins compared to his brother AZ who was the favorite. But at the same time would smile look at her and say “Who cares as long as I have you? We will work together and make the best of it! You will see! Someday I will be king and you will be by my side”

“I am glad he made it nicer, did he became king?” Though the little Pokémon, it was kinda hard to tell as luxuries only told half the story but then frowned when she realized something “How do I get inside?”

A loud crash of broken glass woke Lysander up, Loui raised his head from the rug he was lying on and began to growl, he heard it too.

“Intruder?” Though Lysander as he got up from bed, walked over to the fireplace and took the iron poker from it.

Together he and Loui began to explore the chateau, Loui ready to pounce and Lysander ready to beat the intruder half to death if he or she dared to pop out somewhere in the dark.

Room by room they checked each and every one for intruders till they went downstairs, checking the library they heard another crash. This time coming from the kitchen.

Slowly moving over both Lysander and Loui pressed against the wall separating the kitchen from the dinning room. Looking at loui he nodded before he rushed turn on the lights and loui pounced to…..

Well….

This is unexpected….

On the kitchen ground the broken remains of a sweet honey jar, pieces of broken glass scattered around while the honey pooled in the ground.

Midway to consuming they found the strangest looking Flabebe the two had ever seen. Her eyes were as wide as saucer cups as she stared at the two, her hands deep in the honey.

Looking at the flabebe then around it became clear that this Pokémon had been the intruder. The two crashes being the broken window panel near the sink and the broken honey jar.

But still made the question remained, what was it doing here!?

Loui did not bother with answers as he quickly pounced on Flabebe, swallowing her whole.

“Loui! No! Spit out!” yelled Lysander, the normally well behaved Pyroar refused so Lysander was forced to grab the Pyroar and force his mouth open forcing him to spit out the poor Pokemon.

Covered in saliva flabebe made a miserable sound as it tried to grab her flower and flee again but this time Lysander grabbed her. 

With a gentle grip he held her while Loui growled, “Drop it!” Warned Lysander as he gently placed the flabebe down on the counter.

Having calm down the flabebe just gagged and moved, trying to get the saliva off of her.

Taking out his holocaster he tapped the screen, “How do you give a flabebe a bath?” He typed then looked at the answer.

“Use a spray bottle, light mist” he read as he bend down and looked inside the bottom cabinets, finding an empty spray bottle he took it and filled it up with water from the sink.

After testing it to make sure it was a light mist he showed it to Flabebe. She looked confused but eyes widen in delight when he gave a light spray.

Finding it was safe and delighted she made happy sounds as he used the spray bottle.

Soon she was clean and began to dry herself in the kitchen towel before calling out, pointing at the discarded flower on the ground.

The same flower AZ had given him.

“Wait… this is..” muttered Lysander as he bend down, carefully picked up it and dusted it a bit to make sure it had no glass before giving it back. 

Flabebe took it happily, hopped on it and proceeded to use the flower to float around the room.

Loui looked somewhat annoyed at her while Lysander stared as he remembered what Mable had said, about unusual remains on the flower. If this was her flower could that mean she was the “unusual Pokémon”.

“She is unusual, never seen a flabebe looking like that and she is most definitely not a shiny” he thought to himself as she floated before him, making sounds that are happy then paused.

In an instant she was at his face, getting a good look, which quite frankly was very uncomfortable. Before giving a happy cry and all but lunging at his face.

He most definetly! Did not scream like a girl! And he most definetly did not fail around like a beached magickarp! And he definetly did not try to claw his face off trying to get the Pokémon off of him…..

Who was he kidding?

He did all of it at once!

“Get off of me!” commanded Lysander as he gripped and somehow managed to pull Flabebe off only for her to find a new grip on his left hand.

“Miss fleur, please let go” said Lysander firmly as he grabbed her only for her to attach herself to his right hand. Her tight grip locking in as she refused to let go.

Meanwhile Loui watched rather amused as his trainer tried and failed to remove the clingy Flabebe off of him. The stubborn bloom Pokémon just kept attaching herself to whatever body part she could, if not his hands it was his arms, if it was not his arms then it was his legs, if it was not his legs she somehow managed to attached herself to his neck and finally she attached herself to his hair burying herself in his low ponytail with the flower sticking out as if he was wearing some kind of hair clip decoration.

Giving up, no! He did not give up…. He… merely was going to think of a better plan to remove the flabebe… Lysander decided to leave her there, it was late and he really needed sleep.

“Alright, you can stay there” said Lysander exasperated but mentally he had decided to bring the flabebe to Mable, maybe bring her to Diantha afterwards as he knew for a fact that he was not good at taking care of fairy types so Diantha would be happy to take her off of his hands.

Yes, that’s the best plan.

Light snickers sounded as Lysander walked into the Lumious research center. While he showed no emotions or that he did not care deep down he was simmering as he knew full well why people were snickering.

He looked ridicules with a large flower sticking out from the back of his head, but it seems it was Flabebes most favorite place to be, no matter how much Lysander tried to remove her from his hair. Everytime he tried she would just burry herself deeper into his hair and when he did manage to grab her she would latch into his hair and refuse to let go.

For a moment he had considered cutting off his hair so she had nothing to grip, but pride got in the way as he really liked his hair so the choice was made for him.

She would stay and he would keep his hair intact.

Stepping into the elevator a couple of researchers were quick to stand up straight, but as soon as he turned to press the elevator button they noticed the massive flower sticking out from his ponytail.

A scientist coughed trying to hide their laughter, while the other two tried but failed to hide their snickering which came out sounding like a skittering ratata.

All the while Lysander mental mantra was “It’s almost over” as he was not going to loose whatever dignity he had left by snapping at the group.

Soon the snickering stopped as one of the scientist spotted something else. Something was hiding behind the flower.

“What is that?” Muttered the scientist as he reached over to grab, only to find that it was the worst mistake he could have ever made.

A bright light flashed from behind Lysander followed by a force pushing him foreward causing him to collide face first against the elevator buttons.

Alarms sounded followed by screaming as he looked around disoriented while blindly reaching around as he was sure the elevator exploded or something along the lines.

The door opened and Lysander threw himself out while the scientist were quick to crawl out of the elevator and then get up and run out screaming.

Holding his head he turned to look at the elevator only to be greeted by a massive hole that showed him a clear view outside towards Lumious city.

A hand gripped Lysander only for him to turn to fight thinking he was being attacked only to find it was Malva and Diantha.

“Come on!” said Malva as she and Diantha helped him up and together the three ran to Mable’s office, barely making it inside before the emergency system activated.

A steel door came down, sealing them inside.

“That was too close” said Diantha relieved while Mable walked around with her holocaster, tapping and marking before glaring at Lysander and demanded “What did you do!?”

To which Lysander glared and answered “It’s not what I did! It’s what SHE did” before turning around and pointing at the flower and the Flabebe sticking out of his hair.

“What tha…. What is that?” Muttered Mable as she walked closer, Flabebe trembled before pointing the flower, it began to glow making Mable back off immediately.

“I don’t know, found her in my house” said Lysander as he reached, this time she allowed herself to be taken and placed down on the table.

She looked unsure between him, Mable, Malva and Diantha before quickly getting on her flower, floating over and settling back into Lysander hair.

“And there is that, she is very clingy to me for some reason” finished Lysander while Malva and Diantha began to chuckle, finding the situation funny which Lysander did not find any humor in it.

“This is fascinating” marveled Mable as she approached the Flabebe, holding out her holocaster to take pictures and maybe a couple of scans.

Flabebe stared at Mable unsure as she took pictures but cried out and retreated to hide further in Lysanders hair when Mable tried to scan her.

“So was she the one that caused the explosion?” Malva finally asked,

“That cannot be possible, Flabebes are not exactly the strongest of the fairy types” said Lysander shaking his head,

“Maybe this one is the exception” said Mable as she process the data the scans caught “Take a look at this” then showed them the holocaster, it showed strange readings and even more strange a sort of energy coming from both Flabebe and the flower.

“What is that?” Muttered Diantha,

“My guess the reason why this little one is so strong” said Mable then added “Hate to see what kind of damage she will be capable of inflicting if she gets stronger”,

“So I got a ticking time bomb here” said Lysander even less amused at the situation than he already had been,

“No” said Mable then added “More like a death ray”,

“That’s not good” said Malva worried then asked “What do you want to do?”,

“That” said Lysander then turned to Diantha and said “Diantha would you be willing to take care of her? You know as well as I that I am no good with fairy types”.

As soon as the words escaped his mouth Flabebe cried out and just gripped into his hair tightly and painfully.

Wincing Lysander reached and tried to get her off but found it impossible as not only she refused but went as far as biting his hand when he managed to grab her forcing him to let go.

“I don’t think she wants to leave you Ly” said Diantha trying not to laugh,

“I think you need some butter” snickered Mable,

“Forget the butter, looks like you need a crowbar to separate her from you cousin” said Malva as she began to laugh and cackle, with shaky hands she took out her holocaster and proceeded to take pictures of Lysander struggling to get Flabebe off of him and Flabebe refusing to leave.

“Let go!” sneered Lysander finally loosing his composure and patience,

“Aww don’t be so mean, look at her, she loves you” cooed Mable finding the scene both funny and adorable.

“I think it’s best you keep her, she does not want anybody else” said Diantha then Malva added a little bit more composed “Besides, I always felt you needed a little bit more variety in your team”,

“As I mentioned, I do not know how to care for fairy types” muttered Lysander before finally giving up.

“But you can learn, we all learn how to take care of pokemon” said Diantha as she took out her holocaster and tapped a bit on it, soon Lysanders holocaster pinged.

Reaching and taking out his own he looked and frowned finding Diantha sent him a digital copy of “Taking care of Fairy types for dummies” book.

“Your all very hilarious” said Lysander his patience finally running out,

“Aww and we love you too” said Malva snickering.

Later:

“Let’s see here” thought Lysander as he looked over the digital book and instructions, on the ground lay some items he had bought, a dome planter, some light chains, screwdriver and other items.

Reaching for the holocaster he hit play on a how to video and followed the instructions.

Using the screwdriver and screws he attached the light gold color chains to the round metal gold color planter turning it from a regular planter to one that can be securely hanged from the ceiling.

Watching close by Flabebe floated on her flower, when they got back she let go and floated around, his best guess is that she was secure that he would not leave her so she became a bit less clingy…. For now…

With the planter ready he placed the small fairy bed he got at Pokémon co before standing up and looked around.

The instructions said to set up the hanging planter in a place with a lot of sunlight, which is easy as his room had a lot of windows. But where was best? Maybe close to his bed? The book case?

After a bit as if knowing his intentions Flabebe called out before gesturing. Lysander watched as she floated over to a corner of the room, it was close to his bed above the night stand, great view of the gardens through the window.

Nodding he got a step ladder and proceeded to carefully drill on the cealing before hanging the planter.

Once he walked down the step ladder Flabebe was quick to check on the planter bed. Laying down on it she gave a happy sound, content with it.

“Is it nice?” asked Lysander, while he was still on the fence on having a fairy Pokémon on his team he was willing to give it a try as he was not one to do things half way.

“If something is worth doing it’s worth doing well” he thought to himself before heading back downstairs, Flabebe and Louis following. 

Entering the kitchen he poured some Pokémon food for his Pokemon. Looking he found it rather comical how tiny Flabebes bowl looked compared to Honchcrows, Louis and Mienshao. While theirs were on the rather normal size with appropriate portioned food, her bowl was about the size of a thimble and had about three pieces of Pokémon food which according to the book Diantha gave him was an appropriate portion for such a tiny fairy Pokemon that was so small it was even smaller than the size of his thumb.

“Might give her a bit more if she is still hungry” though Lysander as he took and placed down the bowls, Louis was first to eat, then Honchcrow followed by Mienshao as they followed their own established hierarchy.

Meanwhile Flabebe looked between her food and Lysander, giving him a look that seemed to ask “What is this?”.

“It’s Pokémon food, it’s good” explained Lysander, somehow it did not convince her as she took a poke food pellet, looked over it, smelled it and gave it a look. As if she was not convinced that the stuff before her was food.

“She must have been out in the wilds isolated for a long time” though Lysander before looking in the cabinets and taking out some Oran berries he had preserved in a jar with sugar syrup.

Opening it he used a spoon and scooped one out before holding it for Flabebe.

This interested her but seemed a little unsure as she took the sugar syrup preserved oran berry, gave it a tentative taste before her eyes lit up at the flavor and devoured the berry in seconds.

“Glad you like it” chuckled Lysander rather impressed at how fast she devoured that berry while he closed the can and placed it back.

Taking the rest of the food he went out the back door towards the large artificial lake where his Gyarados was resting.

“Food time” Lysander called out as he opened up the bag and poured the food into the rather massive bowl he left near the lake.

Gyarados was quick to rise from the lake to eat. Meanwhile Flabebe watched, rather impressed at the red Pokémon.

Patting Gyarados on the side of the head Lysander turned and went back to the chateau before he noticed the change in the air. The familiar scent and taste.

Lysanders eyes narrows as he continued to walk, ignoring it. Though he did noticed how Flabebe kept staring at the same part of the forest as she followed him.

Reaching the stairs Lysander paused when he heard “Lysander”.

It took all Lysander had not to turn around as he remembered their last conversation.

“Can we talk?” asked the voice softly, hesitating a bit,

“Depends, are you ready to talk to me face to face?” asked Lysander, it was rude, but at the same time he felt it was stupid that whoever this was insisted on hiding for months. Surely there was no good reason for it.

“I…. I can’t… I-“,

“Then we have nothing to talk about” responded Lysander as he took another step.

“Wait! Please… don’t go.. I.. I have your ring” this made Lysander stop.

“My ring?”,

“Yes… the silver one, the one with the necklace… I I found it after the fire… I wanted to give it back but I kept hesitating… I… I wanted a piece of you with me always” the voice hesitated in admitting.

Lysander felt his heart jump several beats as he heard that. Even felt a little light headed. It was more than flattery, it was…

Maybe…

But that cannot be…

How could he feel anything more for somebody he has never seen?

Turning around to face the direction of the voice Lysander said “Thank you, can you please come over and give it to me?”.

The voice was quiet before saying “I can leave it here behind the trees”,

“No, I want you to bring it to me, if not then I do not want it” said Lysander firmly, it was stupid, a mega ring was rare and hard to come by, but it was a gamble he was willing to take for the greater reward. Such things is why he became a successful ceo and rich despite his parents cruelty and sabotage.

“I…. I can’t” said the voice,

“Why not?” said Lysander frustrated, why would anybody be this stubborn to refuse to show their faces? Did he really think he was that ugly? Or was it something else?

When that though entered Lysander began to worry, was there an actual good reason why this person wanted to remain hidden? Was he in danger?

Deciding to test out his theory Lysander began “If  is that you feel that your ugly, I promise you I would never see you as ugly” as he walked down the stairs and slowly approached the forest line. 

The scent grew stronger, whoever it was had not run off yet.

“No… I mean… I do not think I am ugly” admitted the voice,

“Then why hide? I would like to continue our chats more often, maybe over coffee, there is a nice little cafe I know, we can sit down and have a chat there, my treat” offered Lysander hoping it might help convince the person to come out.

There was silence before saying “I can’t, I am sorry….”,

“Why not?” asked Lysander, now alarm bells ringing, something was very off, while whoever this was was not a threat, it was clear that he was afraid of something.

“It’s complicated…. I am sorry…. I… I should have never come back” said the voice.

Sensing what was happening Lysander ran to the forest, Flabebe following. He looked behind the trees, there was nothing but he could hear some movement. Whoever this was was running away.

Acting quick and admittedly stupid Lysander ran in the direction of the sound. His lungs and heart getting a familiar piercing pain as he ran, his breaths more labored as he tried to run after whoever this was.

“Stop” he wanted to shout out but came out as a whisper then a gasp as he felt pain pierce through his chest.

Collapsing to the ground Lysander proceeded to hack and cough as the running triggered another episode worse than the last.

Flabebe looked panicked as she floated around him, unsure what to do as Lysander coughed and heaved so much one would think he was about to cough out both his lungs.

Each cough brought out blood, each breath felt as though he was drowning in land.

Moving he felt his arms fail him as he landed face first into the ground as he reached for his bag only to find there was no bag, he had left it back at the chateau.

Laying there on the pool of blood he only had one hope. Looking at Flabebe who kept hovering over and crying out in fear he somehow managed to voice out “Loui…. Get… loui” the effort wasted more precious air that he did not have.

Flabebe listened before nodding and leaving.

Watching her leave was the last thing he remembered.

It was then he wondered….

Was this it?

A loud gasp wracked through Lysanders body as he came to. At first he was confused, disoriented, a side effect of the episode. But soon he began to calm down and make sense.

Next to him he saw Loui who looked nervous, his bag next to him, his oxygen mask on. Flabebe hovering close, pressing the oxigen mask into his face..

It took a bit and some oxygen recovery before Lysander realized what happened. Flabebe had succeeded and brought Loui over. Not only that but the two clearly worked together to save his life.

Loui grabbing his bag with his medicated oxygen, Flabebe somehow figuring out not only how to use the mask but also turn on the tank so he could breathe.

Taking in the oxygen Lysander stared at the two, reaching he stroked Loui, silently thanking his most oldest and trusted friend. Then gently holding out his finger towards Flabebe, reaching she took and held it gently, her eyes shone with tears but smiled as she was happy he was okay.

At that moment he felt awful for ever even thinking of giving her to Diantha, was glad that she had been stubborn about staying with him.

Though based on the way she looked at him he felt that no apologizes would be needed.

Recovering a bit Lysander sat up then stood up, Loui pressed against him to help him walk while flabebe hang into his finger. 

Together the three of them began to walk back home.

“Lysander, it’s me Diantha…. It’s been a couple of weeks since we saw last one another. Look I am going to be honest with you, you have us all worried. It’s not like you to isolate yourself this way… please… let us know what’s wrong…. We are here for you” the recorded message rang through the chateau.

Laying on his bed, his mouth covered with a handkerchief Lysander coughed into it before his episode ended. Removing the cloth he frowned seeing the red stain on the pristine white kerchief.

Nearby Flabebe and Loui the Pyroar watched, both concerned but not knowing how to help.

With a sigh Lysander placed the cloth to the side before reaching over and petting Loui then moving to Flabebe and stroking her head gently. In a silent way asking them not to worry, to reassure them he was fine.

But who was he fooling? Nobody, his condition was slowly getting worse and there was nothing to change or stop it.

Lifting himself up a bit he reached for his nightstand, opening the drawer he picked up a book and brought it over. Opening the book he looked over it finding page after page with photos.

Curious Flabebe floated over to get a closer look.

Opening the book wider so she could get a better look Lysander explained “It’s a photo album, pictures of the past”

“Bebe” flabebe seemed to coo as she looked over the pictures.

Pointing at the pictures Lysander explained the memories within them.

“This one was from Dianthas big birthday bash, she rented out the entire parfum palace for a mask ball theme birthday” explained Lysander as he took and held up the picture so Flabebe could get a better look. With a chuckle he added “She insisted I would look great as Darkrai”

The picture looked like something straight out of a fairytale, the hall of mirrors lit up by a thousand candles, shiny beautiful costumes, dancing under the stars. Just this single photo could not capture what a magical moment it was.

“Be” flabebe said, her eyes wide with amazement.

Placing the picture back Lysander turned the page, this one revealed dozens upon dozens of pictures from tropical forest, blue seas and white sand beaches.

A light chuckle escaped Lysander as he pointed at another picture, this one was of him alone, he looked rather upset as he stood in a balcony, his skin sun burned and a scowl on his face.

“Malva took this picture, she found it hilarious that I fell asleep while sea fishing in Alola” explained Lysander “I was sun burned really bad”, Flabebe laughed, he did not blame her for laughing as he admitted that he looked ridiculous.

Moving the pages Lysander told Flabebe every single memory associated with them. As he did the hole in his chest seemed to grow wider and wider as he realized something.

Soon this would all be gone, no more memories, no more experiences, no more….

With a gentle hand he closed the book and mumbled “I never realized…” as he lifted the book he froze when a single picture fell out.

It was a Polaroid picture, old and aged. 

Taking it Lysander held it as he looked over it, in the picture he was about 20 years old, next to him was a dark haired olive tone skin man, both were smiling, behind them was a kissing booth.

“I’ve been trying to forget about him, I thought it would be him and me against the world, working together towards something better” said Lysander before giving a weak laugh “I almost believed it back then, had a whole plan laid out, I actually saw us running off starting a life together, succeeding, buying a grand house in Lumious city, maybe a beach house for vacations, even growing old together….”

His voice trailed off before admitting “Before what happened I had hopes, that maybe if we were together the world was not so bad…. I still remember what he said, what made you think I would be with you without security, we need money to live”

Gripping the photo angrily Lysander 

“Money was all he cared about”

His grip grew even tighter as he continued “It made me wonder, if the one I loved all they cared about was money, if my parents all they cared about was wealth and status, then what’s stopping everybody else? How do I know the people I know and let close are not greedy”

Flabebe whined worried and sad for him.

Taking a deep breath Lysander calmed down, he did not want to scare Flabebe.

“I apologize, guess I am still angry about what happened” he said before taking another breath and admitting “I prefer Pokémon over people, Pokemon are pure and if I could I would get rid of us all so you can live happy and free”

Flabebe looked horrified at that and shook her head, she just got him back! She could not be separated a from him again.

Floating over she grabbed a lock of his hair and pulled angry, letting him know of her discontent.

“I understand…. I promise I won’t do that” promised Lysander but thought “Not like I got the time or will live long enough to even think of going through something like that”.

Dropping the picture he held out his hand, letting her float over and land on it. Holding her gently Lysander said “I also admit, even if I do not act like it, I do want somebody… preferably human… to be by my side… companionship, somebody who I can share my burdens with, they with me, somebody sincere and honest who genuinely wants me…. Like how Diantha and Malva are” he added the last part when Flabebe looked at him confused as she was sure that he had that with Diantha, Malva, Mable and Keith.

“It’s just different, different sort of companionship” he added specifying “Not that it matters, I am not going to live long enough to find somebody like that, even if I did I doubt I would find them….” He shook his head “I can’t even find a way to tell Keith, Malva, Mable and Diantha that I am dying”

“Bebe” said Flabebe as she used her flower to point at his holocaster,

“It’s not that easy, I cannot just tell them, Diantha is busy with her movies and being champion, Malva is busy with her holocaster roles and being elite four, that’s also not counting the wedding, Mable is professor, Keith is rising the ranks….. I cannot burden them or bother them with my situation and even if I tell them I will be treated differently, seen differently… I just don’t want to-“

His voice trailed off when he saw how Flabebe and Loui looked at him angry, silently commanding him to just tell them.

“No and enough of that, time for bed” said Lysander setting Flabebe to the side, she just did a dissatisfied noise, a way to say “This is not over!” Before floating back to her bed.

Reaching over to the lamp in his nightstand Lysander turned it off before laying back down. With that came a final though.

Was that why he wanted to see that mysterious voice so badly? 

Maybe…. Maybe deep down he knew that whoever that was was what he wanted? And because of that it is why he wanted more than to just see whoever it was.

He wanted to interact with them face to face, maybe have dinner, over time maybe ask the person over. Put a face on the person who was selfless enough to risk his life to save him.

Just talking was not enough for Lysander anymore.

That fact scared him, that he had allowed himself to show his heart, to be vurnable, to tell things he would not admit even to himself. To just be weak… all to a person he did not even know how they look like.

A person having such power both scared and thrilled him. 

Then there was also morbid curiosity. This person risked his life to save him from a fire and did not remain to get fame or favors, which they could easily ask or get for saving a rich and famous ceo would do that.

Yet he did not and not once did he ask anything of Lysander or even showed himself to the media. Based on their conversations it seems he did it out of pure kindness and selflessness.

With a sigh Lysanders turned to his side and closed his eyes. He was tired and wanted to quiet down his mind for the night.

Sleep did not come easy that night and for some reason he could not shake off the feeling that he was being watched.

A swirl of emotions filled Xerneas as he hid by the side of the chateau, right under the window leading to Lysanders room.

He had heard everything said, replaying it in his head made the emotions grow more.

A part of him was angry, wanted nothing more than to break into the chateau, no matter if he was a Pokémon and might not get the best reaction from Lysanders seeing a legendary breaking into his home. March straight to the man and call him the biggest fool and the most selfish jerk imaginable for keeping such a secret from his friends who not only care about him, but were clearly worried sick about him, that he should stop being so stubborn, let go his pride and let them help him.

Another part wanted to cry for Lysander, it was heartbreaking what he went through and it explained a lot of his actions. It made Xerneas want to tell him that he does not have to be alone, he has people who will be there for him, even he would be……..

Closing his eyes Xerneas felt tears falling.

The god of life hated this, he hated having to stand by the side as Lysander suffered. He hated not being able to be by his side, not being able to….

Then a thought ran through his head, it was foolish, stupid, but Xerneas entertained it for a bit.

If he was human or at least had a human form, maybe he could be by Lysanders side, tell him everything he wishes he could say and not feel frustrated the way he does now having to bottle up everything he feels and wants to say. 

“I wish I was human” Tears spilling like waterfalls down his face as he finally admitted what he had been trying to ignore this whole time.

Light knocks sounded as Lysander had finished setting up breakfast. Which had turned into a second Pokémon war with Flabebe and Louis both fighting to get crepes.

“Behave!” warned Lysander as the two Pokemon gave each other death glares.

The two were acting more and more like an annoying sibling towards one another in Lysanders opinion.

With another warning gesture Lysander stepped out of the kitchen and went to answer the door. Much to his surprise he found Diantha, Malva and Keith outside.

“About time! Was ready to call the cops to barge in!” said Malva not even letting Lysander get a word in as she entered the chateau.

“Come in” said Lysander annoyed that she just barged in like that.

“Don’t be like that, somebody has to make sure your not turning into a Mimikue or something” said Malva as she walked over to the living room and sat down on the couch, making herself at home.

“Malva” said Diantha before turning to Lysander “I apologize but, we have not seen you in a while so we decided to stop by and check on you”,

“Ya, you missed the camping trip we did with the junior Pokémon rangers, it’s not like you to miss it with no explanation” added Keith,

“Forgot about that, was probably during one of the nights I was busy coughing my lungs out” though Lysander then answered “I am sorry, I have a lot on my mind”,

“A lot on your mind? What is it? Inventing a new kind of coffee maker?” Joked Malva, not in a cruel way, more as a way to break the tension and hide the true worry she is feeling.

“No, it’s really nothing you should worry about” said Lysander waiving his hand as if such a gesture would wave away their concern.

It had no effect on Diantha and Malva who narrowed their eyes on him. Keith just looked rather nervous, both not wanting to step on toes and at the same time curious as to what’s going on.

“Okay, spill” said Malva in a serious tone,

“Spill what?” asked Lysander,

“I know you dear cousin” said Malva with a glare, her arms crossed “Your hiding something and I want to know what”,

“There is nothing to hide” said Lysander shrugging,

“Ly, we are all just very worried, your not acting like your usual self” continued Diantha, her tone was full of worry,

“How have I not been acting like myself?” questioned Lysander,

“Well you forgot several commitments, which is something that does not happen” said Keith but wished he had stayed out of it as he looked down, not daring to see his benefactor and father figure eye to eye.

“So spill, what is it? New invention? New project? Planning to go crazy and cause the end of the world?” Listed Malva,

“No! It’s-“ Lysanders words died in his throat when he heard light tapping at the window before a loud wack was heard as the window was forced open.

From the open window several Floette came floating in, all of them converged into the living room in a rather impressive display of color and coordination.

Locating the table one by one they dropped some flowers they were carrying into the table before flying out the same window. 

The entire table was covered with flowers. Shocked into silence Lysander walked over and mechanically began to pick them up one at a time when he realized something….

If the little he knew about the language of flowers was anything to go by… it meant…

24 red roses…. I am yours.

12 dahlias… commitment and everlasting bond.

12 red tulips…. True love.

10 sunflowers…. Loyalty and adoration.

9 Lilys…. Devotion.

11 Hyacinths….  Sincerity.

12 chrysanthemum… honesty.

If this was correct, who was the one who sent it? The person he had been talking to? But-

“Oh I see what’s going on” Lysander could feel his frustration building as he looked up, Malvas anger turned to a smirk as it seems she too knew the language of the flowers.

“So this is why you have been ditching everybody, busy with a new lover I see” her tone was smug and sing song.

“Malva it’s-“,

“Really Ly? Why that’s wonderful! Here we were so worried you were isolating yourself again” said Diantha relieved then added happily “Oh I have to give you a plus one for the wedding! Maybe make space in the bridal party”,

“That’s not it, I-“ Lysander tried to explain but Malva cut him off “Finally! It’s about time you got over your crippling fear of relationships”,

“I do not have a fear of relationships” said Lysander insulted,

“Right, you are just afraid to let people close in general” said Malva smirking,

“Malva” warned Lysander, she just smirked and said “Love you too cousin, please you need to bring your new girlfriend around”,

“He is not my-“,

“Oh it’s a he I see, I am just glad you got over your past relationship” said Diantha “Now you have to tell us, who is he? Where did you meet? How is he like?”

To this Lysander sighted as he it was clear that they were not listening and worse his savior made things a lot more complicated.

On one hand he bought Lysander more time to find a way to tell Diantha and others about his impending death.

On the other hand now Diantha and Malva want to meet him, which is easier said than done as his savior wants to remain hidden. How was he to explain that?

“Auras help me!” Though Lysander with a groan.

Waiting outside in the forest, looking towards the chateau Xerneas waited nervously. He knew Lysander should have received his little gift and knowing how smart he is he should be able to understand the message Xerneas was trying to convey.

It was a stupid plan, desperate, but he hoped that maybe it could lead them both to talk. Then if it all goes well maybe it can lead to him showing the truth.

“Hopefully he won’t react too badly” though xerneas as he waited hiding among the trees and bushes, anxiety mounting every second that passed.

His head perked up when he heard the door of the chateau open, the one leading to the garden.

Out stepped Lysander holding all the flowers Xerneas had sent via Floette.

He took a step ready to talk but froze when Lysander made his way across the garden towards the compost and threw all the flowers there as though they were garbage.

Then looking towards the forest Lysander called out angrily “If this is your idea to get me to change my mind you are sadly mistaken! If you want to talk then stop hiding like a coward and talk to me face to face, if not then I never want to hear from you again!” with that he went back into the Chateau, making a point to slam the door behind him shut.

Closing his eyes it took all Xerneas had not to sob, for a moment he found himself stepping forward, trying to force himself to leave his hiding spot in the forest, making his way over to the chateaus door and knocking on it like he had seen other humans do.

But frozen knowing what might happen, the shock on Lysanders face seeing Xerneas was not human, the anger of being tricked.

Shaking his head Xerneas turned and went back deeper into the forest. 

Fear had won.

The forest noticed the change right away, of course it would as it would always react to Xerneas mood.

With a low growl Yvelta noticed how the trees seem a little less green today, how the bushes seem duller, even the flowers were droopy.

“Wonder what’s up with Xerneas” though Yvelta before extending its wings and taking off. Through the sky his eyes scanned around before spotting Xerneas in the heart of the forest by a water fall.

Lowering to the ground it Yvelta held back a gasp as he stared at Xerneas and noted the changes.

The main one being that the deer Pokémon God had lost a lot of weight. While yes he was skinny, he was not skeletal like he was now. His fur looked dull and disheveled, as if he had not bothered to groom himself a bit.

And his eyes…

He just looked so depressed.

Looking down Yvelta reached into the ground, decaying the soil in the process before taking out a diamond. Soothing himself he made his way over to Xerneas.

“Mon biche, how lovely you look today” cooed Yvelta.

Xerneas did not say anything, as if he had not heard him.

Clearing his throat Yvelta showed the diamond “For you, a precious jewel for a precious jewel” he held it to make sure Xerneas saw it.

Looking at it Xerneas turned and glared at Yvelta. The rage an anger he felt towards the Pokémon god of death over boiling after so many years of having to tolerate his abuse.

“Don’t be cold, you know I love you so much” Yvelta cooed as he reached to touch Xerneas. As he did he heard Xerneas mumble something.

“What is that my love?” Cooed Yvelta, spinning to face him Xerneas gave the iciest look and growled “I am not your love and you do not love me”.

This took Yvelta back as usually Xerneas was not agressive. Well sometimes, but never this fast. Usually it took a bit before he got angry.

“Mon amour, it hurts me to hear that” whined Yvelts hoping to change things around,

“Well good! Maybe you will finally leave me alone!” growled Xerneas as he turned to try to leave but Yvelta followed.

“You wounded me, you must apologize” whined Yvelta,

“I rather be beaten again, I most certainly never want to see you again” said Xerneas as he hurried up only for Yvelta to go faster and cut him off.

The death Pokémon glared at Xerneas as he was looking up and down before accusing “It’s somebody else, isn’t it?”.

His rage turned to fear as he backed away and spoke “Non, I merely no longer want anything to do with you! So if you will excuse me”.

Xerneas turned to leave, his anger getting worse as he noted how he had finally been brave enough to properly call Yvelta out but had not had the guts to talk to Lysander face to face, it just made him feel worse.

Walking away was the best option, once away he could- yell of pain sounded from Xerneas as Yvelta grabbed him by his tail and pulled him back, slamming its clawed wing at Xerneas neck, pushing him to the ground and crushing his windpipe.

Gagging and thrashing Xerneas tried to get away, to attack, anything, but Yvelta had the upper hand as he pressed down. Cutting off his oxygen supply. 

“Tell me who is it, I will make sure to make an example of that” said Yvelta, his tone calm but laced with danger and threat.

Shaking Xerneas refused, he was not going to tell. Despite the hurt, despite what happened Xerneas was not going to put Lysander in danger by telling Yvelta, he was not going to lie either as he was not going to put innocent lives in danger by lying.

“Tell me” growled Yvelta, Xerneas silent refusal confirming his suspicion as his tone became more dangerous while he pressed the deer Pokémon against the ground.

Dark spots danced around Xerneas eyes, his mouth tasted of blood. He still refused as he shook.

“Fine, then I will take care of the problem” lifting Xerneas up Yvelta slammed him down against the ground as hard as he could by the neck.

Xerneas neck exploded in pain and blood causing him to gag and choke as blood began to drown him. As he did he could feel his body tensing and a strange energy.

“No….no” though Xerneas panicked as he realized what this meant. 

Smirking as he also knew what was going on Yvelta let go “That should do it, soon you will go back to your tree state for a couple more years, by then whoever it was that caught your fancy would be dead” he smirked self satisfied before pressing a kiss into xerneas head “Will see you soon Mon amour”

With that shadows surrounded Yvelta and he vanished leaving Xerneas alone as his body went through the process of going back to its dormant tree state.

“No no no! I don’t want this” Xerneas wanted to scream, a scream that never came, just pain and chocking down his throat more blood, as he fought and tried to will the change to stop.

This seemed to accelerate it, which made Xerneas panic and fight more.

He could not go back to his dormant state! If he did he will be gone for years maybe even centuries! Lysander would be long since dead, probably thinking he did not care. It just cannot happen.

“Please no! If I must change then something else! Anything! Anything but a tree!” He told himself as he tried to focus, to mentally force a different transformation.

He focuses on anything else, fletching, skiddo, he will even settle for the form of a garbodor. But soon his mind went to Lysander, the time they spent together, his regret.

He wishes he had had the courage to talk face to face.

“Please…. Let me stay… for him”

Those words begged in his mind over and over as he held unto that though, replaying memories of their past conversations, what he learned, everything and anything to grip unto he did in hopes of stoping what had started.

Slowly but surely the strange yet familiar sensation seemed to slip away. For a moment Xerneas dared to think that maybe just maybe he had somehow managed to halt his dormant state.

Only for piercing pain to rip through him, another silent cry tried to escape his mouth only to gag in more blood.

Something…

Something was wrong.

The thought crossed his panicked mind as he writhed and twitch, pain wracked his body as he lost control of it, bones breaking in angles that they should not be able to get to, his head burned with pain as if it was bashed over and over, his chest… it felt like rhyhorn had thrusted its horn straight through him and was deliberately moving the down down, tearing him in half.

The pain….

Worse than all the beatings and torture Yvelta had given him over the years.

Worse than all the injuries and broken bones he suffered through his immortal life.

Even worse than the pain he felt when that horrible weapon siphoned out his power.

This was pure agony unlike anything he had ever felt and for a moment he began to fear that he was not going into a dormant state, rather he was actually dying in the most horrible and painful way possible as dark spots continued to gather in his line of sight.

Darkness surrounding him before pulling him into oblivion as blissful unconsciousness took over.

Hours passed and silence settled into the forest. The sun rose then fell before rising again to announce a new day, its soft rays falling upon a man lying as though dead under a sycamore tree.

Loui did not really understand what his human was talking about, but seemed serious from the tone they were taken. Though it did not seem to concern him for the most part.

His gaze turned to Fleur as she sat on top of Lysanders head, she in turn gave him a smirk that said “Ha! He likes me more”. How he detested it! Why did his trainer allowed that annoying Flabebe join the house he had no idea and quite frankly he wished he had eaten the smug little brat when he had the chance, that would teach her that she would never replace him as his trainers favorite Pokémon.

Knowing that causing another fight would not be wise Loui opted for another option. With a yawn he moved to the door leading to the garden, pawing at the door handle he managed to get the door unlocked and pushed it open with his head.

Walking through the stone terrace he was ready to lie down and sun himself a bit when he froze.

That smell.

He wrinkled his nose, taking in the smell, it filled him with excitement as he knew that smell and more specifically knew who it belonged to.

Taking off towards the forest Loui was hot on the trail, while male Pyroars were not as efficient trackers as their female counterparts Loui was pretty confident in his ability to track as he had made an extra effort to perfect this skill due to him getting lost that one time.

The smell getting stronger the further he ran into the forest, meaning he was getting close but then paused as he smelled something else.

It was not as strong as the other, but it was distinct, old, decay and death, it made Louis fur stand on end as his running slowed to a cautious walk.

While it was old smell meaning that whoever it belonged to had left, there was no guarantee that it would stay gone so he would be cautious.

Carefully and quietly tracking the forest smell, the smell of flowers and life, Loui stumbled upon a sycamore tree, laying under its thick canopy was the source of the smell.

Loui stared confused, he knew the source of the smell, had seen it, memorized it, a large blue deer with antlers that shine in multicolor lights. This human smelled like it, but was not it.

Approaching the human Loui carefully sniffed the man’s dark curly hair, he smelled right. But… why was he human?

Noticing the bruises and eyes closed Loui bend down and proceeded to gently lick his forehead, hoping to rouse this human from his sleep.

A silent groan escaped the man’s lips as gray eyes slowly fluttered open.

“What… what happened?” Xerneas wanted to ask himself but instead found himself wincing as pain traveled through his body, slowly regaining consciousness he noted another thing.

Something cold and wet, it pressed against the side of his head.

Wincing Xerneas opened his eyes, at first everything seemed bright and blurry, he could hardly make a distinction between the forest and the sky.

As he blinked his eyes sight adjusted enough for him to see a beast of red and brown.

Startled Xerneas tried to get up only to wince and collapsed to the ground as fresh pain. Laying there for a bit, trembling, he took several breaths to calm and sooth his pain only for the beast to lick the side of his head.

Opening his eyes a second time Xerneas got a good look at the beast.

“Loui?” Wondered Xerneas as he stared at the Pyroar, as if answering his question Loui licked him a second time and gave a soft growl.

Shaking his head Xerneas felt confused, last night was a jumped mess in his head, he remembered Yvelta beating him, the pain, the darkness.

A sharp pain poking through his head broke his line of though, wincing he reached up and pressed his hand against his forehead.

“Wait……” though Xerneas as his eyes widen at a startling realization….

A hand…

And sure enough he had a hand, a very human hand.

“What in the name of arceus” though Xerneas as he ran his hand against his… other hand… he had two human hands and arms.

“Fascinating” thought Xerneas, his panic turning to curiosity as he ran his right hand over his left arm, feeling the soft texture of skin, his shoulders and neck, though he did wince as his neck throbbed with pain.

“Probably from when Yvelts attacked me” thought Xerneas then he moved his hands over his face, feeling his new human facial features, chin, cheeks, nose, forehead, then running his hands through his hair then bringing it over to his line of sight, black as night with lovely curls.

He did not know how this happened, maybe Zygard had a hand in it somehow, maybe Arceus heard his plight, he did not care at this point.

Loui looked on at Xerneas before reaching over and gently latching unto his arm. It made Xerneas flinch back, as he realized human skin was much more delicate and sensitive than his Pokémon skin, startled but then relaxed when he noticed that Loui did not leave any injuries.

Growling lightly Loui moved his head, looking towards the trees.

Silently saying “This way”.

Understanding Xerneas sat up to move but frozen as he remembered that humans are bi-pedal, not like how he was before.

“This is going to be new” thought Xerneas rather nervously as he pressed one foot on the ground, slowly bracing himself as he rose on his two legs. They shook and trembled, taking on weight while Xerneas tried to balance himself.

Taking the first step he found himself falling face first into the ground.

“Ow” winced Xerneas, walking on two legs was hard.

Loui the Pyroar gave a soft sound and nudged Xerneas with silent encouragement.

Taking a couple of breaths Xerneas tried to stand again, this time Loui pressed against him. Latching unto the pyroar Xerneas steadied himself and started to take his first steps.

Patiently Loui helped Xerneas walk, leading him through the forest.

Slowly each step taken became more steady as Xerneas got used to his new form. Though each movement he made brought new fresh pain which made him question as to how humans can walk around while feeling so much pain.

Another step taken made Xerneas falter and collapse against Loui who looked worried. Gritting his teeth Xerneas wrapped his arms around himself as he trembled weakly as a sudden chill was felt, what little strength he had left having been spent.

Softly Loui called out, trying to urge Xerneas to continue. Xerneas gripped a nearby tree and tried to stand again only to falter and fall again.

Knowing he had gone as far as he could Loui turned and left.

Opening his mouth he tried to call out only to gag and choke, it felt as though he had swallowed several salac berries without taking the needles out.

Gripping his neck with one hand he breathed in painful breathes as he leaned against the tree. Feeling dizzy and lightheaded as the injuries given to him by Yvelta had taken its toll.

“You may have a point, I can try to-“ Lysanders words trailed off as he noticed Loui the Pyroar come back from the forest.

While that was not strange what was baffling was when the lion pokemon quickly ran over to where Lysander had hung some shirts to air dry which were far too delicate to be put in the dryer. Grabbed the cerulean blue one, tugged it down and took off with it.

“Loui!” Yelled Lysander startling Mable before running outside and after the Pokémon, shocked at its out of the ordinary naughty actions.

Behind him followed Fleur who quiet frankly just wanted to see Loui get in trouble and scolded, Mable behind her.

Following after Loui Lysander called out. The usually obedient Pokémon ignored him as he continued to make its way through the woods.

“What is up with him today!?” questioned Lysander then noticed Loui stopped by a particular tree, looking between him and the tree Loui bounced over.

“Loui what is wrong with you today? Why are you-“ Loui latched unto Lysanders arm and began to pull him.

Lysander pulled away only for Loui to move behind him and proceed to nudge and push him with its head as if silently saying “Come on! This way! This way!”.

“Why are you acting this way!? This is not like you” demanded Lysander fed up with Louis antics only to stop when he noticed the pyroars body language.

The Pokémon Lion seemed to be very eager and insistent, looking between him and the tree. Similar to how he acted when he was a tiny litleo and would find “kills” to show to Lysander.

Not that any of them were actual kills, rather rocks, leaves, branches, even a newspaper he managed to swipe from a neighbor.

Then there was that other time when he found and brought Lysander to Diantha, he was so proud and acting similar to this. Also when the person who talked to him from the forest…..

“This….” Though Lysander as he walked closer to the tree, he quickly noticed the smell, the familiar smell of fresh trees, flowers, spring time, one he knew too well.

“Are you there?” Lysander called out realizing who this was, he heard soft rustling behind the tree, not a sound but it did confirm it was most likely the same person he had been talking to.

Catching up Mable and Fleur gave Lysander a puzzled look, he placed a finger to his lips, the universal sign to stay quiet as he carefully walked close to the tree.

Remembering what Mable said he decided to try a different approach. He was a proud man, refused to admit when he was wrong for in his opinion he was almost always right, but he knew if Mable’s assumptions were correct…. If he wanted any chance to help he would have to take a different approach.

Leaning against the tree Xerneas winced a little as the throbbing pain came back mostly on his legs and feet, it woke him up realizing he has dozed off for a bit.

Silently grunting  in pain he reached and rubbed his legs trying to sooth the pain while he hoped that Loui would come back soon.

As if answering his silent plea he heard rustling, turning and leaning he saw Loui run through the bushes, in its jaws it had some kind of blue fabric.

Stoping in front of him Loui dropped the fabric on Xerneas lap.

Taking it Xerneas noticed it was in fact human clothing… what was it called?… a shirt was it?

Holding it Xerneas at first was confused as to why Loui had brought him that but then turned several shades red as he realized another thing about his current form.

While in his Pokémon form he had fur and such to cover him, as a human besides the silver strand necklace with the mega evolution ring that hanged around his neck he was completely in the nude, which as far as he knew it was something frowned upon by humans. So as a human he needed clothes to cover up.

“This would have been very embarrassing” though Xerneas as he moved the shirt around, trying to figure out how humans put it on.

He noticed the holes and after a short, quick trial and error he figure out one for each arm, one for his head, but he could not figure out how the things on the shirt… buttons was it?… worked… so he just used the excess to wrap himself with it, holding it close.

The shirt was massive on him, but did the job at covering him for the most part.

Looking up to Loui Xerneas was going to ask something but Loui bounced away, soon afterwards he heard.

“Loui what is wrong with you today? Why are you-“ 

That sounded….

Xerneas felt his now human heart start to beat loudly, his body pressed against the tree as he felt several emotions at once.

“Why are you acting this way!? This is not like you” demanded Lysander, he heard Loui growl and whine, along with movement, they were getting closer.

What was he to do?! Run!? Don’t run!? He had though about it, but now when presented with the choice he was completely undecided on what to do!

“Are you there?” Lysander called out making Xerneas almost jump out of his skin from fright. He was so close to the tree, to where he was hiding.

Gripping he found himself paralyzed, unable to do anything but stay where he was, gripping unto the tree while his heart hammered away in his chest. 

“Please do not let him hear” Xerneas though as he heard his steps getting closer and closer till they were by the tree.

“Mon Ami”.

Silently Xerneas curled up unto himself, as if doing that would somehow make him invisible.

“I do not blame you for not wanting to see me” began Lysander, his tone softer, a little hesitant as if he was watching his words “I admit that I have not treated you fairly or well, demanding answers you were not ready to give, throwing out the flowers like that…. Its not my proudest moment”.

Xerneas relaxed a little bit as he heard this, yes it really did hurt seeing him throw those flowers out, it had taken him and the Floette a long time to decide on what flowers to give and gather them all.

A hand peeked a little through the side of the tree “I trust you, more than I actually or care to admit….. I really hope you can trust me too”.

Neither making a sound or a move Xerneas hesitated as he stared at it, open like an invitation, but should he take it? What if it was not real? Non of this was? Maybe a dream that he would wake up from? Not the first time he has had lucid dreams.

But the again the pain he felt, the struggle, it was all too real.

Looking down at his own human hand Xerneas knew this was a golden opportunity, such a chance would never come again, so he had to make the most of it.

Reaching out he placed his hand on his, the first thing he noted was how small his hand looked against Lysanders, also noted how warm they felt as they closed around his in a rather comfortable hold.

Carefully Xerneas braced himself against the tree, forcing himself to stand despite the pain making him want to sit back down again. 

Taking tentative steps, each one feeling as through he was walking on broken glass, his hand now clutching Lysanders as he step out from hiding behind the tree, his free hand gripping unto the shirt in nervousness while his eyes looked down, nervous at their first face to face meeting despite it being the one thing he often imagined about.