The Darkest Night

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Content Warning For: PARENTAL ABUSE. BLOOD AND GORE. Sections to skip will be marked with [CW START] and [CW END] if you wish to ctrl+f past.

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Fire & Stone

~ CHAPTER 7 ~

<< The Darkest Night >>

[BEGIN]

<< WARNING >>

Content Warning For: PARENTAL ABUSE. BLOOD AND GORE. Sections to skip will be marked with [CW START] and [CW END] if you wish to ctrl+f past.

Place: City of Arceliaze, Northern New District, Approaching North Gate to S’Ran

Region: Central Arceali Valley

Day: Konsova

Date: Zshima 49th

Year: 5th Turn, 12

The sun shone distantly over the edge of the valley that surrounded the city of all sides, dwarfed it. Mid afternoon.

I felt a chill against my side. The bottle I held was given cold, and the frigid winter air kept it so. It was a glass bottle made of stained glass in a spiral pattern wrapping around, blue and white, with a golden thread holding an ivory cork wrapped in a see-through rainbow tinted film.

It was beautiful. And very expensive, even with Kala’s discount.

Here I walked. 2,000 coins in debt, with the other 19,000 coins to be hand-delivered to me at my ‘home’.

Still, as Kala had said, the clerk at The Well of the West promised to relay the information of my purchase to the loan woman. It was clear Kala was a woman that I’d be wise to stay in the good graces of.

With bottle of Emmiwenipvo fo tino Duphimevini Eksai and several documents in hand, I crossed the north gate of Arceliaze, following the cobblestone path up towards the villages of the Arceali valley, up to S’Ran…

Siranae would be home by now.

The light that gleamed from the bottle’s edge twinkled and pulled at my vision- the faint chill of wintry air still dogged my steps. Cobblestone ridges pestered every movement I made, and my fuzzy little arm was well about sore from carrying valued papers from the start of my day to the very end. To say nothing of what questions Mama would proffer upon my return…

It mattered not. My work for this day was done, and there was yet more to manage tomorrow. And… between now and then, I’d be in good company as I rested.

I turned my head up, a faint smile creasing the stillness of my face, while my eyes scanned over the homesteads that dotted the tilted landscape of S’Ran. I was no explorer, nor familiar with the geography in any strong degree- but I’d be able to pluck Siranae’s home out from the rows and waves of nearly-indistinguishable abodes that stood on all sides. My paw clutched the neck of the ‘Eksai’ tight, while my posture corrected into a more ladylike stance, preparing to present myself.

There it was. Past the general stores, from the fork across from the chapel, around the bend, fourth home on the left. It looked the same as all the rest but it was burned in my mind.

Even from down here, I could see worker carriages in Gur’Don offloading Poke’mon that walked down pathways west to S’Ran. I wondered if Siranae mingled in any of those crowds. Some other part of me wondered if Siranae was thinking of me, wondering where I had gone off to.

I was quite excited to tell her.

Finally climbing up into S’Ran, up the street of Siranae’s home, the family’s little worker’s house came into view. The curtains were drawn but I could see shadows projected on them, from a flickering candlelight.

I recognized the shape of Papa and Mama.

Voices within.

…sharp voices.

…my hurried steps slogged to a halt, and I found myself hesitating at the front door.

My eyes darted to the curtains, then the doorstep- almost hoping I had stumbled upon the wrong home, but… no. Those two were unmistakable, for better or for worse.

It was crass, but I stood my ground – one side of my head turned to the door to listen in on their harsh tones. I would not dally here long, but… I would be better off hearing what was afoot before barging in.

…I could not bear the idea that they were spitting their vitriol upon dear Siranae. I found myself praying that their cruelty was somehow directed upon myself or another, even if it would make my presentation all the more difficult.

Stood by that wood door, the voices became clearer. Mixed with the sound of my own huffing, perhaps even increasingly ragged breaths, steam billowing from my lip as I listened to vitriolic words.

[CW START]

“-is selfish. Just seflish. I say to go into catering, working together with me. Noooo, Siranae knows better and will go into ironworking. Dear Papa says to save yourself the heartache of pining for the guild. Noooo, Siranae knows better and shall keep us up to all hours, thumping about with all the dancing upstairs. We try to get you to have a trustworthy group of friends, ANY friends. Noooo, Siranae knows better and shall drink and get into fights with pit-pillocks in the Old District. Now you finally have one friend, decent enough company in Adelaide, and we urge you to simply not make a mess of it. Nooo, Siranae knows better, and shall babble nonsense about a guild to esteemed company and put her in such a foul mood that she took it out on me!”

There was a pause. A long pause. If Siranae was in there…she said naught.

“Selfishness of the highest degree. Feed you, clothe you, bed you, put up with you, we are trying very hard but more and more and more it’s all just thrown away and I do not know what to do anymore. We ask so little and cannot even get that. We are freeloaded off of, taken advantage of…and still we try and help a dull-witted daughter get even just one friend. And look, she has not returned!”

Another mournful silence.

“After your conduct it will be a wonder if she returns at all. If she walks in that door you had better be very grateful she was willing to put up with you. If not, you have none to blame but yourself.”

A shuffling. Footsteps upon wood.

A frigid gale rushed over the cold cobblestones, nipping at me painfully, the valley howling.

My paw rested upon the door handle, waiting. Gripping tighter by the second, by every word that Mama let dribble out from her pompous jowls.

By that second silence, my arm trembled in its anticipation.

Anger grew within me – rage threatened to blow forth from my every muscle.

Why could I not move…? That fury should have let me pull the door from its hinges, and yet I stood in place, locked by my own disgust.

I had heard words of that nature before. Not to myself, or perhaps not of the same intensity to myself, and yet I knew it. That vileness of being told that one has not repaid what was given, as though we are born as debtors to our mothers and fathers. Siranae worked herself as any commoner would, obeyed the orders of her bothersome Foreman – even fought to draw in those additional slivers of earnings – and she was selfish for her fancies? Selfish for her dreams…?

My arm tensed, digits digging at the steel of the handle. I could not manifest some arcane powers as that shopkeeper had, but I could throw myself upon Puchanae – make her regret bringing such harm onto dear Siranae, make her know that she is doomed to a fate Siranae will escape by my own hand-

But I did not.

Still quivering, my paw drew back from the door handle, and calmly yet loudly rapped upon it. My twitching smile settled back into place, and my huffing breaths returned to fine and silent wisps of air.

I would not strike her down, verbally or otherwise, on this night – I had my wretched ruse to maintain.

“Adelaide-?”

Siranae’s voice. The first I’d heard her talk.

“Do not get your hopes up.” Mama’s voice cut in. She said it with so much faux-sweetness, as though she were saying it for Siranae’s benefit. “I certainly am not.”

Footsteps. Footsteps pounding upon the wood floor. Closer and closer as they approached me.

The door creaked open.

My eyes adjusted to the darkness within. Focusing on the tall, misshapen beast looming in front of me.

Mama stood, eyes burrowing into me, every extremity of her body – ears, arms, feelers – stood rigid and still. Her countenance bore a look of serenity and warmth, even as her eyes seemed to look at me with both voracious opportunism and contempt.

Home sweet home.

“Oh well good afternoon, Adelaide~!” She spoke sweetly, bringing her hands resting at her front. “Did your adventure in the big city treat you well?”

POWER MOVE: Infantilizing my trip out.

“I do hope hope you did not have too hard a time, my dear.”

POWER MOVE: Mothering. Pet names.

“Arceliaze can be a scary place for those who are new to it, especially by themselves.”

POWER MOVE: Attacking independence, attacking experience.

She smiled warmly. She leaned in with her head cocked lightly to the side.

“Siranae came home whilst you were out and about, dear Adelaide. I believe she’ll be most pleased to see you. I’m sure of it~!”

POWER MOVE: Establishing Siranae as target of further aggression should any action or word be taken against her.

CONCLUSION:

Siranae has been made an unwitting emotional hostage.

Mama’s smile widened further as she took a step back. She looked almost smug as she beckoned me inside…

…as though implying what Siranae would suffer if I did not.

Did…she know I’d hear her? Is that why she stood so close to the window? Spoke in such a loud voice? How did she know I would be returning now?

Perhaps…she did not know when exactly I’d arrive…

…so she merely kept up the verbal assault until she heard the knock on the door.

My grip on the bottle tightened.

Yesterday, I would have thought nothing of such gestures- perhaps thinking Mama to be too smothering and self-centered for her own good. Even this morning, I might have assumed her bitterness from this morning’s defeat had simply opened her cruelty onto Siranae.

But… I had learned better, I’d hoped. I could not underestimate the extent of a Poke’mon’s cunning, nor their willingness to fabricate and manipulate. Mama was a hound, salivating over yet more meat to boorishly tear into.

My head tilted just slightly, as I offered my soft smile all the same.

She wished to redirect me onto Siranae? So be it.

I stepped forward from the chill of the outside world, feeling its sting melt away in the warmth of a friend’s presence.

Looking inside, I found Siranae sat upon a chair in the kitchen, facing the door as though on display. My heart both ached and burned in fury seeing the dejected look on her face, blue eyes kept down towards the floor, her little hands gripping the edges of her seat. Her body was rigid and stiff, as though scared to make any motion or gesture out of line.

Despite the bottle clutched tight and the papers stowed under my arm, I brought both of my hands upon one of Siranae’s, holding it firm whilst uttering a faint giggle.

“It is a blessing to see you again, dear Siranae.” I said warmly to her. “I do hope the day’s affairs did not wear too harshly upon you – although I know it is somewhat inevitable.”

My thumb worked along one of her toughened knuckles, as though remorseful to witness that which she sustained from her workplace. Siranae said nothing.

My eyes shifted towards the rigid beast that did not deserve so cooing a title as Mama, although I remained facing her daughter.

“Oh, and… yes, Arceliaze is quite a marvel.” I said, making sure to answer Mama as secondary to Siranae. “I find myself a tad lost without guidance, but the streets are kind to a noblewoman with any ounce of patience. Another trip – perhaps with a companion to guide, it would do me well.”

A falsified spark of remembrance flashed on my face, as I extended my arm to the larger woman- showing, offering the ‘Eksai’.

“I had almost forgotten – I came into possession of this Emmiwenipvo fo tino Duphimevini whilst chatting with an acquaintance.” I said, gently holding the bottle aloft. “I had thought we might share it, but I encourage you to treat yourself, dear Mama.”

My eyes rolled back to Siranae, smile unfaltering, even as I spoke to Mama again.

“It sounded as though you might need something to take the edge off.” I finished.

“Oh my~!”

COUNTER: Shut down Mama’s infantilizing with expensive drink.

Mama leaned in to look, her hands clasped together. Her eyes were hungry yet she hesitated taking the bottle.

COUNTER: An offer for Mama to slavishly lay herself at my feet and to take her treat, as though she were a tamed animal

“Eksai from the home country…?” Mama said, failing to hide the awe in her voice. “How on earth would you have…why, this is so very expensive-!”

COUNTER: Tossing away drink work 2K coins as though it is easily replaceable towers me over Mama financially.

“I can only imagine the acquaintance that would simply gift such fine drink. I hardly even see this at the restaurant…”

COUNTER: Social dominance established and proven.

Mama hesitated…hesitated…then hesitated some more.

Then, like a rabid animal, snatched the bottle.

Good girl.

I tilted my head to the other side, now addressing Siranae fully.

“Would you care to retire to the bedroom for the evening?” I asked, my paw gently caressing the Audino. “Or are there other plans? I have time to spare- I should quite like it spent with a friend.”

Siranae was quiet a moment, her mouth barely opening before she was barreled over by Mama’s voice.

“Why, I must thank you, dear Adelaide! The gift is most appreciated!” Mama cooed, her eyes flashing with pure avarice as she practically admired herself in the reflection of the bottle. “Papa will be most pleased, and I’m sure Siranae would be to indulge you with another trip out to Arceliaze~!”

A statement. A command. Mama’s eyes flicked toward Siranae…who had been noticeably silent.

Mama saw it at last. The first bottle of profit in her housing me. I was her gold mine…and Siranae would be the soul-crushed miner in her eyes.

Siranae, all the while…said nothing. She did not even look at me, her eyes trailed down at her feet as Mama and I spoke.

Mama tilted her head at Siranae’s lack of response.

“Sweet Siranae, don’t be so rude to your friend…at least say hello!”

At least don’t screw this up now for me, I’m sure was what ran through Mama’s mind.

Siranae’s lips pursed. Shoulders bunched up. She lifted her head though her eyes still wandered elsewhere.

“…hello.” Siranae said at last.

She seemed…

…empty.

I stared back at the girl, almost… mortified, at how her radiance had been dimmed. This was not the kind and vibrant soul I’d come to know after a night in the dazzling lights of Arceliaze- this was the remnant of her, hollowed out and propped up by Mama. The real Siranae was being buried beneath her mother’s expectations, her mother’s cruelty.

My hands almost imperceptibly squeezed on Siranae’s. Perhaps out of frustration at Mama, or perhaps simply to keep this girl from slipping away.

“Siranae,” I said, voice not losing an ounce of its cheerful warmth, “I must admit, I had not finished my sightseeing whilst on my errands today…”

I lifted her hand in my own.

“If it would be no trouble, would you be willing to join me on a brief constitution?” I continued. “Some fresh air, it would do the both of us good.”

A pause. Siranae did not reply at first.

Mama cleared her throat. Siranae’s ears twitched.

“Okay.” Said Siranae, voice as though she were played by an unconvincing actor.

Mama stepped aside, expectantly watching as Siranae stood. Her hands did not hold mine back as she simply…stood…eyes flicking toward Mama. The Mega Audino gestured to the door and Siranae obeyed, moving forward to the open door.

Not even in a hurry. She was simply trying to follow her script correctly.

As we passed, I heard the sloshing of liquid in a bottle.

“I trust you will have fun.” Mama cooed sweetly. “And I do look forward to your return in due time!”

Another shake. The Eksai sloshed.

“You’re always most welcome in our home. Siranae appreciates it, too.”

Spoken in Siranae’s stead, with an extra biting layer underneath the words: what might happen if I left and were no longer there to protect Siranae.

…What might happen if Mama did not continue to receive her treats.

Siranae acknowledged nothing, only stepping forward without a thought of her own.

I did not respond to Mama’s bitterness – that horrid venom lying just beneath each line she spat at myself and Siranae. My smile remained, even as I turned, even as I ushered Siranae toward the door as best I could.

There was some cursed façade I had to maintain, even now, as Siranae was being crushed before my eyes. I could only play my part in turn, pressing the door open and escaping into the cold world of Arcea once again.

I let the door slam shut behind us, smile dropping into a mangled stare of disgust once the chilled wind passed over me again.

We were safe.

[Adelaide comes home to see Mama being mean to Siranae. Adelaide promptly removes Siranae from the home while keeping her facade.]

[CW END]

I said nothing. Siranae did not need words just yet – no matter how much I wished to offer them. She needed distance.

I gave her arm a gentle pull, starting to descend the steep slopes of S’Ran – no longer fumbling or nearing a fatal fall, simply escorting her down the hillside, and away from that abode, from the den where the monster known as Mama made its nest.

I coughed out a few words, glancing back Siranae’s way.

“I… apologize.”

The rumble of the city, the whistle of the wind, the bitter chill of approaching night…

…seemed comforting compared to the suffocating warmth of that home.

Siranae did not respond to me for a while. It was only after a moment of silence she perked up, as though my words reached her slowly. She did not look at me, but only turned her head.

It was as though it was now my turn to guide her.

“Why are you apologizing, Adelaide…?” She spoke in a quiet voice, as though speaking too loudly would let Mama hear and the woman would skitter from the door and pull her back in. “I…do not recall you doing anything wrong.”

Words spoken so carefully. The implication was clear.

It was only Siranae that did wrong. That said a bad. That did the wrong thing.

My hand held hers just a hair tighter, as if to reaffirm my presence – my own, not Mama’s, and hopefully give some solace to the girl.

“I should say that I did.” I clarified. “Or, if nothing else, my inaction has… brought you more harm.”

I let out a warm sigh in the cold haze around me, staring forward to the great city of Arceliaze, as I continued to usher Siranae away from that hellish place.

“My conversation with your mother – I had sought to understand Arcea better.” I explained, keeping my eyes forward. “I had sought to affirm my nobility in her eyes. But… I was perhaps reckless. She inflicted her frustration and insecurity on you, solely for showing your warmth and grace. I am disgusted to think that I may have allowed this to happen, in any sense.”

I looked back to the girl, sorrow laden on my expression.

“I cannot bear to make you suffer on my behalf. You’ve done nothing wrong, dear Siranae- I’m sorry that she has made you to feel as though you have.”

Siranae’s ears…flicked a little but she otherwise made no reaction. She only followed along with me, perhaps contemplating my words.

Though…I did feel her hand grasp mine at last. Tight and secure.

“There is nothing to apologize for…f-friend Adelaide.” She stammered, as though slowly finding her voice. “The situations is…”

Hesitation.

“…not so dire. It’s hardly anything worth worry…”

A lie…or, no…perhaps more of a truth inside a half-truth. A truth that spoke to many other horrible truths.

Siranae lifted a hand and patted mine, keeping her gaze out toward Arceliaze.

“What is it you would like to do?” The Audino asked softly. “I shall…endeavor to accommodate.”

Still yet Mama’s accursed script was branded into Siranae’s very soul. She made no strong point of it, simply…doing as her lifelong mother told.

I was, after all, Siranae’s only friend.

One that Siranae very clearly…did not wish to lose.

I could breath at least a small sigh of relief from that returned grasp. It was not enough, it was not Siranae in her entirety… but it would do for now.

“I cannot agree with that lack of worry…” I replied, my thumb gliding over her hand. “Not when it comes to a person such as yourself. But I… will desist for now.”

My thumb swirled along her rough palm, kneading into it with concern that I could not simply discard. My steps slowed, while I brought my eyes toward the expanse of Arceliaze, if only to let Siranae be free of my stare.

“As for the place, the activity…” I mused aloud. “I would like to visit… a comfort. Some place where you feel safe… or some fun that you might find outside of that home. I wish to find your peace and your solace, Siranae. It would make for a lovely evening.”

“Comfort…”

Siranae’s soft little voice trailed off. She glanced down at the satchel at her side, quietly opening the flap and showing the meager stack of shares to her name.

As she looked…her thumb traced my grasping paw, pressing into the soft surface. Her hands were so rough. I could see a scab from a recent injury on her knuckles, no doubt sustained today.

I silently hoped that it was from her work.

“I s…I m…muh…” Siranae’s voice stammed. “I…”

She huffed, letting out a sigh, eyes returning to the cobblestone.

“I’d like…um…like to…”

She paused. Her grip loosened.

“…anywhere is fine…”

Anywhere but here.

She truly never lied, even when speaking little.

I felt a thorn of Siranae’s agony prod my heart – it was tragic to see her in such a state. I could not wrest her from that pain, nor make her understand that she would be safe… I could only acquiesce to her gentle response. ‘Anywhere’ would have to do.

“I see… would you mind a walk, then?” I lowered her hand down, hoping not to make her feel trapped in my request. “I visited a new place in Arceliaze today… the Illaminian District. I know not what culture you share with that place, be it a shared root or nothing at all…”

I offered only the weakest smile, feeling little joy when dear Siranae ached so.

“But, I thought we could… watch a show, or other manner of performance on the streets- even if you do not speak that language, I do not either.” I spoke my suggestion with kindness, as it was only a friend’s offer and nothing more. “It could be nice to simply… indulge in the jovial air.”

The Audino girl fidgeted at that, lifting her head to look as we both came nearer to the north gate. She nodded soon after, holding her calloused hands to her chest.

“Of course, f-friend Adelaide.” The muttered. “I, um…think the Illaminian district is very unique. It’s certainly where my culture comes from.”

She squirmed.

“Well, no, I am really fully Arcean. I’ve never even been to Illaminamo…and neither has Mama. She only picked up the culture second hand growing up in the Illaminian District…” Siranae confessed, pulling a little ahead. “B-but maybe we can, um…go to a party square. Or a fire grill, I hear they always have music performances…maybe even one of those story-musical things…”

Siranae was hiding something, but said no more as we both finally crossed the North Gate and entered into the quiet rumble of the New District.

After another pause, Siranae’s ears flicked as though she remembered something.

“Oh…! I apologize for not asking: Um…how have you been? What did you…’get up to’?”

Another scripted line. Mama seemed to want to use Siranae for information, too.

I gave a weak laugh from that line… it was all I could think to do, in such a distressing display. Dear Siranae, pulled by the strings and propped up to entertain a noblewoman – it was not right, not one bit. She deserved far better than such a fate, and I could do naught but delay it.

“I do not know…it is hard to discern what your mother would want to hear, after all.” I said, letting my jab at Mama’s character hopefully clear the air. “And, in the interest of self-preservation, I’ve hoped to keep my lies few and my truths simple. We can say…”

I tilted my head up as I ruminated on the matter.

“I met with some new acquaintances at an eatery… perused some wares at a garment shop for a future purchase… and made some important investments with a new banker- do you think that will tide her over?”

I asked it with such a simple smile, as though to mock Mama’s well-planned yet thoroughly heartless machinations. Even as I weaved through those mistruths, I did not let my sight wander from dear Siranae – I kept my steps steady and quick, escorting her along through the New District and toward the city’s heart.

Siranae didn’t reply for a while before looking over to me.

“In truth I ask out of curiosity.” She said. “Where Mama to ask what you had been ‘up to’…I would…only say to her that I forgot to pose the question to you…”

The Audino was quiet. Her hand fidgeted.

“It would matter not, as I shall be ‘dull-witted’ regardless and I don’t believe forgetting to ask you would incur further grievance…”

She let out a breath, her gaze returning to the ivory streets of the New District.

“Above all else my greatest want is to preserve our friendship and I am sorry if I brought undue stress and…annoyance in my…r-ramblings about the guild.”

Yet one more scripted line.

My steps slowed, until I could move no farther. I placed myself before Siranae, and brought one hand upon hers, gripping it firmly.

“Siranae.” I spoke both with warmth and firmness. “I… cannot abide you speaking this way any longer.”

My weak smile fell into a frown, one bearing concern more than frustration. Siranae froze, staring at me. My frown made her immediately recoil, the shine in her eyes clear that, for a moment, she thought she said a bad again. Ears folded back, head lowering.

“If it has not already been made clear…” I began. “…you did not bring stress or annoyance- you did not ramble about the guild in my presence.”

A digit pressed and stroked on the back of her hand.

“You showed me a truer, dearer version of yourself – you allowed me to know my friend just a mite more. I was happy to have that night with you- to know that dream with you.”

I shook my head in dismay.

“You are not dull-witted – you are a bright and caring girl. It is disgusting to witness your mother attempt to snuff out that spark of gleaming light.” I gave a weak huff. “I have… seen this behavior before. Whatever she thinks she is doing in your benefit – she is only digging your grave deeper. I cannot bear to see you weakened and withered so.”

My snout turned away, some embarrassment taking hold of me. It was a strain to put to words what I had shown Kalae earlier.

“I meant what I said the night prior. You deserve to belong to greatness and importance as those guild members do. I have… already put myself in motion, to assure that you will get there. And I have no plans to cease, not until you have your daring adventures and your frilly dress – until you have what you are owed.”

The Audino listened.

She listened to my every word.

She listened to every assurance, every promise…

…every comfort.

And I felt…her hand hold mine…tighter…tighter. Protectively.

Still, her head was lowered. I saw her twitch.

We both stood in silence on that New District road, the white statues shining brightly on the both of us.

Siranae was silent. She said no more bads.

She only hesitated…

…hesitated…

…as if scared. Scared of me. Scared of losing me.

Mama had hurt her so, propped up her only friendship as being in so much jeopardy that Siranae must behave exactly as Mama commanded.

But no more of Mama’s script left Siranae’s mouth.

The Audino only leaned…no, stumbled forward, wrapping her arms around me tightly. All her fear seemed to vanish, as though she took a leap of faith with me, just hoping, hoping…she didn’t ruin all this in one fell swoop.

She buried her face into my neck…and I felt a wetness. She made no noise, but I could feel her tiny…nigh imperceptible jolts as she held me tight.

And said…nothing.

Siranae wished to say…nothing.

I had frozen upon that pressure of her embrace… and returned to motion once that wetness graced my fur. I had been a fool to think she was merely worried, when Mama had so thoroughly struck at her innocence and goodness.

My arms moved around her, bringing the Audino closer still… until I could rest my head against hers, and keep those weeping eyes from shedding tears in vain. My paws pressed and stroked at her back, a feeble attempt to quell those sorrowful jolts…

I found myself moved to silence as well. What else could I say that would undo years… years of suffering? I could not find the words that would soothe such aching…and so, I only stood there, holding Siranae tightly in the pale light.

She was scared…hurt. In her heart, perhaps…she was alone.

It pained me to think of it. More than I could have ever spoken it… I felt that resolve bubbling inside me.

Siranae would know nobility. She would know freedom, wealth, belonging. No matter the time it took…I would help her reach that place she had always belonged in.

For a long while…that’s all there was. Just a long, tight hug from the girl as she tried to collect herself, silently crying into my shoulder.

No prepared lines, no looking away, no over-analyzing social contexts to scrub any all all aspects about herself that might offend.

No, the real Siranae was here at last…crying.

Soon, she began to move, pulling herself away bravely from my soft hold. Her meek face was now one of misery. Eyes puffy and red, dark streaks down her cheeks.

She still made no noise. Not even a sniffle, even as her breaths quietly hitched.

“A…A-Adelaide…?”

She took a deep breath, trying to find her courage as her blue eyes finally, finally looked into mine.

“…d-do you…want to g-get…food at a fire grill? I…” She hitched again. “…prefer…the ones in the Old District because…th-the noise…in the Illaminian District…upsets me g-greatly.”

She forced out her opinion, her preference.

Despite Mama.

I gave a warm smile to the girl, almost feeling my heart skip a beat at that eye contact. At the sensation that this dear Audino could trust me.

My paw reached forward, stroking a digit along a cheek- just to cleanse one of those teary streaks. She deserved to be free of that dreadful sorrow, or at least tended to however I can.

“I’d be delighted to visit a fire grill with you.” I said. “You may choose the spot- wherever you find will be a wonderful place to spend an evening.”

I held her hand in mine, soft enough to be sure she was not forced or restricted.

“And if you would prefer that I choose, you must only ask.” I promised. “Somewhere quiet, though- I will be sure of it.”

“Well…”

Siranae let out a breath, seemingly of…relief. Relief from what, it could not be said. Perhaps just the fact I did not lash out at her suggestion. That he faith in me wasn’t misplaced.

“I…am happy to take you to the f-fire grill…they have a…local troupe that plays there and it makes me happy to see them…” Siranae said, gesturing down the road before turning back to me. “Oh, b-but…! I am also curious to hear what your suggestions are! It is only polite, after all, to hear what places you have in mind…! You said you had a walk about the city…perhaps you found some things of interest?”

“Ah… in truth, not much. I had returned to that… eatery, we had patronized last night,” I said, swishing a paw in the air, dismissing myself. “I had also been told of a fire grill in the Illaminian District, but…”

With a mite of hesitation, I rose a paw to poke lightly on one of the Audino’s ears.

“I am led to believe these are quite sensitive, yes? I would prefer somewhere quieter for you.”

flick flick

Those ears of Siranae’s twitched at my touch. She didn’t seem uncomfortable with it. In fact, she seemed to smile a little more as they flicked.

I glanced along the path that Siranae has gestured to.

“Besides, I do enjoy a performance…” I concluded. “The troupe would be a blessing, I imagine. You may lead the way, my dear.”

“Okay!! Okay…” Siranae took a breath, closing her eyes. “…okay.”

Mama was wrong about you, I could see it in Siranae’s face.

With a thankfully shorter hesitation that before, she began to talk. Talk of this performance that interested her so.

“It’s…a play put on by this group of friends and their siblings. It’s been going on a while and…apparently it’s adapted from a similar performance put on in Illaminamo.” Siranae looked back at me hopefully. “It’s storied music, I think they call it, just about the daily lives of this group of Poke’mon living in a flat together.”

She giggled lightly to herself, that soft demeanor slowly returning to her. The life in her soul rekindling.

“And, um…well, I know nobles tend to prefer the big productions on stage, with singing. Opera?” Siranae looked back at me. “Did you have any of this in the Bologna world? Or, uhm…the human city?”

I giggled lightly while Siranae recounted the details of her fascination, the visage of it almost coming alive in my mind – Poke’mon using their… unique and varied forms to strong effect in acting roles, and the little stages they might construct.

…although, my countenance soured slightly, once prompted to think of my own world.

Bologna… I’d seen a good few plays in my time, and a handful of operas. Never a restaurant troupe, as Siranae had offered tonight. But…

I coughed forth a laugh.

“We did, yes… perhaps they were different from yours, but I’ve always loved the theater house.” I told her. “Talented actors and actresses, lending themselves to the finest tragedies and comedies that minds could craft. I had…”

My snout tipped down.

“I had just received tickets from my sister, for us to see Amleto… an opera, it would premiere in the summer. A-an adaptation of the renowned Hamlet, if you are familiar…” I trailed off, knowing full and well that she would not know of such a play. As if anything from my own world could persist in this realm. “I should hope to see it, in a few month’s time. But, tonight- your troupe would be… good for the soul, yes?”

I shot my gaze back up to her, smile strained but still genuine. Siranae looked thoughtfully at the question. I knew the look well: she was indeed unfamiliar.

But her thoughtful look quickly turned cheerful.

“Well…I haven’t heard of Hamlet…but perhaps you can tell me of it sometime…!” Siranae offered. “I should think I’d love to learn of human stories…if you’d like to share?”

My expression softened in turn with her words… her effect was hard to deny. Even if the thought itself drew forth unpleasant feelings.

“Well, I… I cannot say to know each tale by heart, but it would do me good to recount them.” I mused. “And… I’d be happy to share those little fantasies with you.”

My hands moved onto one of hers, perhaps more for my comfort than Siranae’s.

“I could even… try to write them- I still need to learn penmanship for this realm, after all- there’s actually, quite a lot for me to work on…” I glanced toward the sky, sunlight waning in the wintry glow. “But this is a time for our relief- I should hope we make the most of it, dear.”

Siranae clapped her hands together, her ears bouncing in visible joy.

“Oh thank you, Adelaide! I’d love to hear stories dreamed by humans!!” She cried. All the joy Mama had robbed from her was restored, or at least enough that Siranae could fake what was not yet returned.

She took a long breath, quickening her pace along the warm stones of the New District.

“If I may confess, I have no true plan for the evening…I was simply looking to wander.” She said, glancing back at me as we both reintegrated into the flow of the crowd. “If you still have want to go to the Illaminian District after the performance, I find the place is much more bearable at night when the music quiets down so Poke’mon can sleep.”

She giggled softly to herself.

“If that district is a slice of ‘The Old Country’ brought to Arceliaze…I should think I wouldn’t survive a moment in my grandparent’s homeland. No, my home is here in Arcea.”

I shared Siranae’s laughter in turn… even if forced or a farce in some degree, I was simply happy to make this space between us safer, and warmer, for such a precious girl.

I clutched my paw around Siranae’s hand, my gaze wandering to the distant edges of the Old District- to Arceliaze- to Arcea.

“Perhaps, notwithstanding the assortment of creatures to adjust myself to… or the hilarity that is the Arcean nobility… it is not a bad home for a Poke’mon.” I smirked just slightly, paw tapping on her tense knuckles. I let my words trail off, yet my thoughts continued unhindered.

Not when one such as you can find her root here.

“Hey Turon, what’s all that you got ’round the fire?”

A violin plucked a few notes.

“Yurdon, I says to ye, it’s an ol’ family recipe. Knead ‘er, bread ‘er and fry ‘er!”

A few more notes.

“Mind yer oil lest it’d backfire.”

“Mate, y’preach t’ the choir!”

“Call me a liar?”

“Nay, just a wheedlin’ crier!”

“Ohhh, Feh!”

The Cinderace wrapped in scarves scoffed, waving off the Delphox as she cooked by the false fire. The pair stood on a stage in the back of the rather large restaurant. A roll of laughter rumbled across the patrons, Siranae included, as we both sat on stools by the bar at the other end of the restaurant.

It was a little difficult to see the performers from here, with several tables between us and the stage. But the performers had voices that carried even this far back.

“T’ain’t n’where near lunchen time. Whatcha fry for?”

“Keep a secret, I do implore?”

“What for?”

“A client asked fer fried oran, twoscore!”

“30 and ten more?!”

“Then delivered to the back ‘o their store.”

“What client? Vuseldor?”

“Aye, that ol’ eyesore.”

“Oh, but they’re whom you deplore!”

“I object to them, but their money? Oho, that I do not abhor~!”

“Oooh…!! FEH!”

The echoes of laughter lapped against me as though the waves of a lake- refreshing me as much as it dazed, even startled. I found myself mimicking their gleeful noises, whether by amusement or pressure.

The humor was simple enough, a story that rhymed as easily as it was told… perhaps more facile than the works within the Teatro Carlo Felice, but it did not offend the eyes and ears. And the performance was not why I had wished to visit this establishment, anyways.

Amidst uneasy giggles, I leaned Siranae’s way, though my eyes still watched the fabricated flames for signs that it might spring alive.

“These actors, are they regulars of this stage…? Or, does the cast rotate with the nights?” My words were hushed whispers in the darkened light, even if the raucous laughter made it seem unnecessary.

“They rotate out.” Siranae answered, leaning over to match my whisper, even as she had to raise her voice to be heard over the actors’ booming voices. “The characters remain the same, of course. You learn to just accept who is who, even if they keep looking different.”

The Audino turned, taking from a plate a baked Oran chip, salted and seasoned with an airy crunchy texture. They were a rather fine treat as we both waited for our drinks and sandwich to share (as Siranae could only afford the one).

“Well!” The Cinderace on stage huffed. “Trading dignity for coin! For shame!”

“In business…” The Delphox next to him replied. “Every customer is fair game!”

“Well, when he trashes your reputation it won’t be I who’s t’blame!”

“That’s a rather bold claim.”

“Tis true! It’s Vuseldor’s mark of fame!”

“I know that! I’ve no love fer the man, I know his aim.”

“Yet you put food fer ‘im on the flame?”

“All the same.”

“For shame! For shame!”

Siranae giggled with the rest of the crowd as the drama unfolded. As they continued on, Siranae turned to me, talking in a hushed tone.

“So…you mentioned it briefly but I was hesistant to ask. It felt too indulgent, but…you had mentioned something about the guild earlier when we were walking here…”

My fur tensed. For only a moment, I’d worried I’d let another crack through another façade, and someone had come to corner me on it- but there was no such ruse, nor was Siranae the type to be fooled. I glanced her way once more.

“Ah… what did you wish to ask, dear?” I placed my paws in my lap, tuning out the boisterous and cheerful rhymes of the Poke’mon on the stage. At the least, their mindless banter was charming in its own simple way. “You are… asking of the adventures and the frilly dress, I would assume?”

Perhaps I had been too eager in those promises, but… Siranae did not take well to lies. And I had no intention to lie of my goals, not to her.

“Yes indeed…” Siranae admitted, leaning in. “I been, well…told that you had left for Arceliaze on your own and, well…you seem as though you’ve gone to a lot of trouble already.”

She gingerly brought a hand forward, brushing some frayed strands of fur on my arm, plucking some grime that had found itself wedged within.

“You are a woman of your word, and that means everything to me, friend Adelaide. But…I feel I’d be remiss to simply let you toil alone on my behalf…” She said, her voice laced with worry as she tenderly brushed me. “After all, you have your own purposes with the guild. I feel as though, as your friend, I should strive to assure your place in the guild, as much as you are for me. I feel that’s something friends should do.”

She sighed. A soft, shaky sigh. She was shuddering with apprehension and excitement, I could tell, from the flutter of her ears.

“Do…you truly think it’s possible? That an ironworker like me can ever stand in the halls of the guild…?” Siranae asked, her voice not disbelieving in me, only needing a nudge into full belief of herself. “And…how might I help?”

I let myself relax, even with the unease of seeing such filth be picked out from my own body… I knew that her touch would bring no harm. I had been pushed to my limit again today, witnessing that…black magic, from the shopkeeper, but Siranae was not such a creature. In turn, I placed my paw upon her, staring into those glistening eyes with an assured smile.

“I see that spark of nobility in you, Siranae…” I told her. “You are kind. Keen-eyed. Delicate in the ways that a noblewoman should be… and, conversely, you are strong. I have not known a noblewoman that would fight with her bare hands, but if this guild would ask such of you? I know that you can fulfill that role- I have seen it for myself.”

…perhaps it was contrary in my own mind, to praise brute strength as a trait of a future noble. Still, it was what Arceliaze expected of such a girl- bizarre or not, Siranae could match that standard of nobility.

Siranae’s blush and fluster was obvious. But, then, the girl was an open book. Joy and hope visibly reignited within at the compliments.

“If I’ve the qualities of nobility…then I should think of you possessing the qualities of a Conduit, friend Adelaide.” Siranae sighed, clasping her hands. “Collected, wise, attentive, and a manner of speaking with authority behind it. All traits I see and admire.”

“Well… the bar for Conduit seems to have been set quite low by that woman.” I gave a muted snicker, hoping not to attract attention with such slander. “But… I am honored to be fitting to those traits, in your eyes, dear Siranae.”

Her words almost recalled Lippi in my mind- she was so distant, I’d nearly forgotten she lay at the end of this nested maze of social torment. Where to begin in pursuing her…

My smile dimmed with a tired sigh, glancing down from Siranae’s gaze as I pondered her other questions.

“As for your assistance… it… would be appreciated, yes. I am simply uncertain of where to begin.” I fidgeted my digits just slightly upon her hand. “Currently, I need to find employment, preferably with a catering company… your mother could provide assistance, were she not so enamored with my fabrications. And, more troublingly… I must immerse myself in guild culture somehow, and make use of the information I’ve garnered about the lesser guilds thus far. A sponsorship will not be easy to come by, that much is certain.”

I looked to her, my expression… hopeful, almost sheepish. I had not meant it to be so timid.

“I had hoped to ask you about these issues- at least the latter ones.” I said. “I did not wish to make a dear friend toil for me, but… I cannot stop you in any endeavors. I only hope that you could assist me in discerning where one company begins and another ends, and where a girl like myself might chance upon inserting herself in their affairs.”

“Toil? Friend Adelaide, if it is for your benefit then it is no toil.” Siranae promised with a soft smile. “I admit, I know very little of companies or business or the like…unless it pertains to the Arceali Guild. Indeed, though it is embarrassing to say, for Mama finds it foolish, I know of and can talk at great length any matters regarding the Arceali Guild. I have obsessively poured over every document I could get my hands on and then some, I-“

Siranae gave another laugh, this one a little more…sad.

“Oh yes, could I ever talk.” She said. “Though when Mama would box my ears for talking too much of it when I was much younger…I came to learn to talk less of it. But…perhaps that is to say I have moreso bottled it up…and it seems Mama caught wind that I have found, and I do pardon the expression, an outlet.”

She sighed softly, turning back to me, her blue eyes sparkling.

“Only speak your question. I will answer to the best of my knowledge! Whatever helps you get to Lippi, dearest Adelaide.”

I stared into those gleaming eyes, my smile returning in full.

“I will be happy to let flow your river of wisdom.” I said warmly. “I suppose, to begin… I had hoped to make use of your mother’s paltry insight, and find sponsorship in the Merchant Guild. Perhaps a catering company whose affairs mingle frequently with those guild members…? And yet, I know little of them but some shareholdings that the woman had rambled upon.”

My eyes rolled to one side, dredging more of the situation from my mind’s edge.

“That catering work is a necessity, in fact- a stipulation of a loan I had taken out. I must seek employment in a timely manner. I had also hoped to learn more of this ‘Conveytion Prista’, and these lauded tax rates. Who is this woman that she sets the stage for all others to perform upon? And… what house do any of these Poke’mon belong under- you and I included? I admit, I feel quite out of my depth with these strange new facets of a society…”

Siranae looked at me seriously, her ears trained on me. She was doing her best to keep up with my questions and not be left behind.

“Okay…okay…” The Audino nodded with a sigh. “I will begin with the disappointments to temper your expectation: I know nothing of Conveytion Prista nor the tax rates. It’s just a name I am not familiar with.”

She nodded again, stroking her chin to think on the rest.

“But…a catering job? A loan? Already? I hope it’s not for too much, Friend Adelaide…and from a reputable source. Though I doubt I need tell you so…you seem rather wise in these matters.”

No knowledge of ever-present Prista, that was a shame… and her comments on that loan only elicited a weakened chuckle from me. I had been overzealous in that agreement, but… I had felt too lost to resist, let alone search for another, more reputable lender. I could only put my faith in Kalae.

Siranae smiled warmly, leaning in as she continued on.

“But it just so happens I might have answers to the other questions.” She began. “First of all…the houses. Houses are simply, erm…estates. You can think of them like companies in of themselves, the topmost owners under a guild. So…I work at Windscorch Forge Co, under House of Hajus of the Ironworking Guild. So many houses are banded together in a guild, advising the Conduit on their own interests, and each house owns and invests in companies…and, of course, those companies can own or invest in companies of their own, and on and on. In a marriage, houses form a joint house until it’s decided who inherits the joint house.”

Siranae paused, tilting her head.

“Did…I explain adequately?”

I nodded as Siranae offered her aid, collecting my thoughts as she added to them.

“I had figured the houses were some marker of lineage- it is the only manner in which I am familiar with the term.” I said. “I appreciate your clarity, Siranae.”

“I admit, I only know that much from all my research of the guild…oh!”

Siranae’s eyes glimmered, the girl perking up as she recalled more. She scooted in closer, her voice taking on a higher pitch.

“It just so happens I know the two catering companies that the guild most often contracts for balls and banquets held in the Arceali Guild Ballroom!” Siranae said. “I had tried getting a job at one a few weeks ago, in secret from Mama, lest she find out my…aha…intentions in seeking employment from a catering company the guild patronizes! It was ‘The Banquet Upon Paradise Catering’! The other is ‘Sula & Torlynni’, usually brought in for larger feasts.”

She laughed awkwardly, shaking her head.

“It would seem ‘The Banquet Upon Paradise Catering’ is rather stringent with who they hiring…apparently my mannerisms are not to their taste. But…this means they’re routinely understaffed. Banquets set up by them in the Arceali Guild Ballroom tend to finish preparations last-minute…” Siranae leaned in, examining me. “I should think they’d fancy your demeanor much more than mine as a caterer, both in preparation, waiting, attending, everything…!”

I shared a stronger laugh once the girl produced a suitable name- ‘The Banquet Upon Paradise Catering’. I leaned closer as well, having to keep some sense not to bump my snout into the girl like an ornery dog.

“To cater an event, I should quite hope the manner of a noblewoman is sufficient- but I shall apply myself all the same. Albeit, I lack formal training in such catering…” My tails swayed anxiously. “Truth be told, despite my studies, I’ve little in the way of work experience. My preparatory tutoring trained me in finance and land management- I am not blind to the function of a caterer, but… how should I prepare?”

“Well…I should think that they would train you. I imagine the sons and daughters of lesser nobles and tradesmen hardly have catering experience, either. It likely is another factor of their constant short-staffing.” Siranae hummed, stroking her chin. “But I imagine so long as you can lift small boxes, arrange silverware and chairs, climb ladders, have an eye for decoration and can take orders and balance a tray…you should be fine.”

She tilted her head.

“Do nobles learn to do stuff like that?”

“…Well. They learn of it.” I sighed, fingers drumming upon my leg. “We are not taught to set our own estates in place for social events- that would be the business of laborers and, more rarely, servants. But as a woman, I was raised to keep decor in mind at all times- I am certainly capable of setting tables, putting things to their places, listening for a call or command…”

I giggled gently, one paw brought to my lips.

“If they feel they must train me as well, I shall be overqualified within a week’s time. But I shall present with my best up to and beyond that point. It should help keep my body active… as much as this- well, new body should need that.”

Siranae leaned in even closer, smiling.

“That’s a good idea! If you manage to get a catering job with the company that does the Arceali Guild’s catering then that’s a good way to get close…whenever it is they’ll have another event.” Siranae said. “I dunno if they’re having anything soon, though.”

I thought a moment, recalling the newspaper article. I nodded with a smile, patting the Audino on her shoulder thankfully.

“Your insight has been most helpful, dear Siranae…” I said with a soft laugh. “As for my next question upon which I must rely on your bountiful knowledge…that would be the Arceali Guild itself, the place you so admire. I wished to find a weak link, one whom I could… place myself upon, and impress.”

Siranae leaned back at that, folding her arms in thought.

“Hm…well, while I’m unsure of what you refer to when you say a ‘weak link’, I’ve learned the linage of all the guild members!” Siranae said, clasping her hands together. “You mentioned the Merchant guild, yes? The only guild member with a lineage in the Merchant guild is Zerro, Mienfoo, 2nd best crime fighter in the guild! His parents are Ergonus and Chaila, both of the Merchant Guild!”

My paws tapped idly, eyes wandering to the floor below. That Zerro did not sound like a weak link, if his parents had raised him with any sense of how their precious guilds worked. At the least, Siranae’s delight in sharing Zerro’s merit was worth witnessing, and I tilted my head back at the girl.

“Well…to explain my meaning of a ‘weak link’, I had meant someone who was… suggestible, yes?” I waved my hand a bit as I tried to explain in the kindest words. “One most likely to offer sponsorship, or guide us toward another capable of that sponsorship, were only they shown the proper spectacle and aptitude. But, I cannot imagine what traits to seek in a guild member for this, Merchant or otherwise. Let alone which guild members could properly sponsor us into the Arceali Guild…”

Siranae thought on that idea of ‘weak link’ for a while. She looked a little…sullen, even.

“Oh…I admit…the description gives me pause. I’d hate to bully anyone…much less force something upon someone else…” Siranae sighed, shaking her head. “Perhaps not weak link…perhaps we just look for someone more open-minded!”

She put the same idea into kinder words. That look of… was it disappointment? It felt quite… unpleasant. I had been too brash in speaking of another person that way before Siranae… before anyone- it was not ladylike.

How garish of me…

“In truth, the only ones that can sponsor membership are alumni…” Siranae continued. “So, essentially, the parents of present guild members. Well…except Jalsa, the Chespin. She’s the first of her house to join the guild, via sponsorship of a family friend, Tsuvula, who is Siffia’s mother. Siffia, of course, being a Lilligant and…”

Siranae squirmed.

“Oh dear, I may be getting off-course. I imagine this might be a bit confusing.” She huffed. “Let’s start somewhere smaller…would you like I just tell you about the guild members and you make your own deductions from there…?”

“Yes… yes, hearing of them and their exploits would help me discern an open-minded soul amongst them. Perhaps I may come across them in my work soon enough to put such information to use.” I nodded resolutely, hoping to show my good intentions.

“Well…if you’d really like to know…” Siranae began. “I suppose I can tell you some of what I know…but do let me know if I am rambling…”

Siranae took a breath, scooting her chair closer to talk in a hushed voice as though the information were secret.

“So…first of all.”

There’s Guildmaster Tyarnikus

He’s the son of Ex- Guildmaster Xarlanus a Typhlosion, as the rescue guildmaster title is passed by birthright. Tyarnikus is a Vigoroth and thus his rule as guildmaster has been defined by noble members but unambitious work. It’s said he hardly does anything in the guild. It’s his second-in-command running the show.

Then there’s Office Manager Vopina

She’s the daughter of the marriage of the House of Kuunus and the House of Alea, collectively the House of Jol’Sazan under the Agriculture Guild. She’s an Espeon that’s apparently left the inheritance of the combined house to her sisters to instead do guild work. Nobody knows why she’d choose such menial office labor over the fortune of her house.

To start with the guildmembers, I mentioned her before but there’s Jalsa

She’s a Chespin, daughter of the marriage of the houses of Verigonus and Nixa, collectively the House of Ner’Uloch, Leaf Guild. Like I mentioned, she’s the first in her lineage to join the guild, sponsored by Alumnus Tsuvula, a family friend. There’s rumors she has little interest in the guild and only partakes because of her parents wanting the status of a child in the guild…I even heard once Jalsa is described as…and I hate that this was used in a reductive way…’soft’.

Next for the Guildmembers is Purina

She’s a Meowstic and basically the highest ranking, highest profiting guildmember alongside her teammates, Mulku and subordinate Qiki. Purina is the daughter of the marriage of the House of Ivonius and the House of Qomua, collectively the House of Mov’Koko. They’re prominent members of the Banking and Finance Guild, making Purina perhaps one of the richest current-members of the guild trainees.

And Like I said, Mulku is on her team.

She’s a Skitty, daughter to House of Xanyus and House of Kolsha, collectively the House of Tos’Spirun. They’re family friends of Purina’s family, so it’s no wonder they got into a team together. Some suspect Mulku and Purina’s team is ceremonial of a partnership between the four Banking Houses’ partnership.

Next up there’s Zerro, I mentioned him.

He’s a Mienfoo, son of the marriage between the House of Ergonus and House of Chaila, collectively the House of Coor’Ardon of the Merchant’s Guild. Like I said, he’s the 2nd best crime fighter in the guild, coming behind Purina. It’s said that although he’s energetic and demanding of fellow guildmembers he’s actually going against his parents wishes to join the guild and only barely managed to coax a sponsorship from them after his father had pressure put on him by a family friend.

Next up is Siffia.

I must confess, I know little of the Lilligant, Siffia. Her home life is rather secretive and she speaks little of it. All I know is her parents are Eurkus and Tsuvula, collectively the House of Wos’Ron, Water Guild. You remember Tsuvula, the one who sponsored Jalsa.

Next is Qavul. He’s an odd one, to be sure.

He’s a Quilava, son of the marriage of the House of Hajus, the one I’m under, and the House of Fula, collectively the house of Xi’Zov. I know what you’re thinking, but Conveytion Hajus is a rather reclusive man. The most I’d heard of him was his partnership with the House of Rizanii. As for his son, it’s assumed he must do a lot but never seems to report his activities. He’s also been described as…ah…rude.

Finally is Caylii

She’s a Vulpix, come from a long, long line of family that have been in the guild. She’s very open to the public, with a keen interest in politics and not a lot of interest in guild work. She’s only doing it out of tradition, it seems. She’s the daughter of the marriage of the House of Tiskus and the House of Shara, collectively the House of Shi’Bay, Architecture Guild.

Siranae took a deep breath, leaning back and running a paw through her hair. She almost looked out of breath but all the same seemed even more excited to get to say all of this to someone, anyone, especially her friend.

…goodness.

I supposed this was the natural result of years of pining for that lauded guild membership – knowledge and gossip beyond her years. I simply watched her face as she proffered her insight, stifling a light giggle from her pauses to take in air. Whereas Mama was taunting and haughty with bare-bones strands of information, Siranae gushed with delight upon delivering wave after wave of genuine detail.

I nodded, bringing a paw to my own chin in thought.

“Well… even if it must be yet more assumption and speculation, I hope to find a suitable entry point within the Arceali Guild’s members. Let us see…”

My paw pressed on my cheek, a fixation of my own thoughts drowning out the gleeful rhymes from the stage.

What did these Poke’mon have to offer…?

“The Guildmaster, his Manager, and this Purina…” I sighed. “…none of them seem the least bit approachable. Leaping from outsider status to a close connection with a higher-up of the guild is absurd. And, even if she is not administrative in her work, Purina having subordinates implies such control that she would reject one’s attempts to ingratiate themselves to her, lest she saw a gain in it. That would go for her Mulku and Qiki as well, they would have Purina to answer to. It seems unsafe.”

I huffed with assurance, although I knew my beliefs could be upended within a moment, with how cunning Arceliaze’s Poke’mon sometimes were.

“This Caylii could make for a fine goal- even if she does not yearn for guild work herself, openness is always a blessing among a sealed group such as this. She may find sympathy for one that does long for the guild, or instead, one who simply acknowledges and sympathizes with her own disinterest. Then again, a family lineage could provide resistance to some outsider clinging to the daughter’s new venture…”

A low and uneasy groan rumbled from my closed snout.

“Jalsa seems more reliable- fresh blood within the Arceali Guild, one that most strongly understands otherness. Your roots and hers run parallel, despite the distance between them. An unwilling recruit pressured to join, a willing applicant pressured to stifle her ambitions.”

I folded my leg onto my lap, drifting off into my mind as the Audino had done prior.

“Additionally… her sponsorship originates outside the family. This Tsuvula has the compassion and grace to bestow sponsorship upon someone who is not her kin. It could be possible that she’d express similar support to a friend of a family friend, yet more service to this Jalsa. But that much reaches wishful thinking, and I’d wish only to fix my gaze upon Jalsa herself, not those that find connection with her.”

…there was a soft yip from my snout, as I straightened my slouched back and looked to Siranae once more.

“I apologize, I… do not usually speak my processes so openly. But, what say you to these musings…?”

The scene on the stage concluded, giving us both a moment of silence. A server quietly brought the sandwich to our table. Just as well we were sharing, it looked much too big for one person.

A set of silverware by Siranae went ignored as she simply grabbed her half, took a bite and set it on a plate of her own. She took the time to eat as a moment to think on my words.

“Goodness…that’s a very good observation, friend Adelaide…” Siranae nodded. “Let me think…You’re correct on the Guildermaster and his manager. I’ve read in public records and accounts in the newspaper that while the Guildmaster is lax and kindly, Vopina is a sharp woman with a disdain for nonsense. And Purina…”

Siranae squirmed, hands clasping at her lap.

“Seems very demanding, I should say? It’s oftentimes report she ‘clashes’ with Jalsa, and I worry for what that means. I believe Mulku and Qiki essentially just amount to yes-mon. Though Qiki is a subordinate, which means she’s not an official member of the guild, simply a hire that is called upon for work without having actual membership, so she’d have even less sway.”

She took another bite of her sandwich before continuing.

“Caylii, meanwhile, seems a complicated case. She seems very well-spoken and very kind. She’s on the same team as Siffia and Qavul…and newspapers always seem to describe the both as uncomfortable to speak near or around her, even as she’s nothing but bubbly and cordial. Even the more private records show her being kindly…I can’t imagine what happens behind closed doors, but I certainly wish for the best.”

She paused a moment, her brain clearly going a mile a minute.

“Jalsa…hm…Jalsa and Zerro are currently the only guild Poke’mon that operate Solo.” Siranae’s ears flicked. “Zerro simply prefers to work alone but Jalsa…oh the poor girl…she can’t seem to fit into any team. She struggles to fight crime when she doesn’t even want to be in the guild.”

Siranae clasped her hands together sadly.

“My heart goes out to her…”

She took another messy bite of her sandwich, eyes trailing upward.

“I admit…the drama of the guild is often heartbreaking but…I am so captivated by it. Reading between the lines of newspapers reveals a tapestry of relationships, a fantastical story. The thought of myself being woven in such a tapestry of colorful characters feels almost silly.” Siranae giggled softly. “But, if you think it possible, I shall work all the same.”

I took up my silverware, fork pinching down one piece of the heavy sandwich, while I cut it up and offered my response.

“I cannot fault you for these fascinations. The highest echelon of noble fighters, claiming their titles or having it flung upon them… vying for greatness or striving for the bare minimum. Mingling and clashing with each other.” I smiled warmly, bringing up my morsel of food and bouncing the fork lightly in Siranae’s direction. “It is not unlike a play itself- or at least, has the makings of a drama’s plotline. It is only natural to find enjoyment in such distant tales.”

I chewed and swallowed my bite quietly, taking up a napkin to tap my lips before continuing. My eyes wandered to the dimming stage.

“Soft-hearted Jalsa, yearning for a life outside this Arceali Guild… secretive Caylii, bearing dark truths that her teammates cannot bear… stoic Vopina, the gatekeeper of the other world. And, gentle Siranae, perhaps able to quell their unease, one day soon. I should say that you could fit well into such a story- but first, we must put our names to the page.”

The calmed air felt almost more breathable, more natural to me, as I spoke once more.

“Jalsa the Chespin, under the House of Ner’Uloch… and the Leaf Guild, you said?” My brow furrowed at the girl. “I have heard of Merchant, Architecture, Banking and Finance, among others… ‘Leaf’ seems an oddity. What does this guild pertain to?”

“Oh, right, I suppose you wouldn’t know the guilds. That’d probably make this easier, huh?” Siranae laughed lightly. “I admit, I only know of the guilds by proxy of the Arceali Rescue Guild. Every guild, as I mentioned, is just a coalition of multiple house under one industry, managing regulation therein:

“First there’s the Argiculture Guild. They have chapters all over Arcea, in every major and sometimes even minor city. From what I heard, they’re the guild that’s gained the most power over the last century, what with all the crop imports and exports with Illaminamo. They also handle stuff like restaurants.

“Then there’s Jalsa’s guild, the Leaf Guild. They’re actually pretty minor. They’re about, I believe…nature preservation and are in the business of flowers and gardens and public parks…and lots of laws about plants. In truth, I think they’re just an Agriculture Guild offshoot.

“The Arceali Guild is what was formed from a bunch of independent altruistic rescue teams banding togehter to form a unified force for good in Arcea! They thusly regulated all activities with rescue teams while Arcea was getting back on its feet after a devastating war. Even once police forces and the army were back in shape, the Arceali Guild was inducted as an official part of the Conduicy government, along with the other guilds, as a place to train and direct teams of heroes to work with country-wide jurisdiction to help the needy! Well…that’s what it’s supposed to be…

“A-anyway, next is the Banking and Finance Guild. They’re the guild running all the banks, loan providers, insurance agencies, stock brokers and the like, no surprises there.

“Me, I’m in the Ironworks Guild, which is focused on all metal production, including forging tools and materials for building.

“The Machine Guild is…well, frankly, I’m not sure. I assume machines of some kind. I’ve even heard they sometimes hold businesses that make carriages…or war machines.

“The Merchant’s Guild is all about commerce. Think like…transporting mail or goods or materials, plus general stores and snack shops, anything like that.

“The Printing Guild focuses on, well…printing! Books, newspapers, fliers, the companies under this guild all focus on stuff like that, as well as making the tools for printing and such!

“The Architecture Guild is very important. From what I gather, they essentially run all businesses related to building structures…statues, buildings, houses, everything. They also used to dabble in art-focused companies more. But the big thing is they deal in land ownership. Selling plots of land, building regulations, stuff like that.

“Finally is a more…uh, mild one. The Water Guild basically just handles plumbing systems. Viaducts, canals, regulations on river redirection, irrigation, all that stuff.”

Siranae huffed a big breath again, coughing a little. She had almost gone blue in the face from all her talking.

“Fah…I hope that helps, friend Adelaide…”

I huffed gently while taking in the clarification- it was certainly simpler in detail than the facets of guild upstarts and elites, but I made an effort to memorize those guilds and their fields of work all the same. With Siranae’s last comment, I snapped back to attention, placing a paw upon the back of her hand.

“It is certainly a help, coming from a place of pure ignorance such as my own.” I sighed. “Your knowledge is always appreciated, dear Siranae.”

I leaned back to my seat, taking up my utensils but still hesitating while mulling over the offered insight.

“Becoming more informed about the Leaf Guild- perhaps offering my services to cater their events in particular, if such opportunity should arise- it would do me good in my efforts. Jalsa is surely more likely to find kinship with a stranger if they can demonstrate requisite knowledge of her line of work.” I gave a dry laugh. “At worst, perhaps she would see me as an overeager business partner. But, I suppose I should ask more clearly…”

My eyes trained on Siranae again.

“Apologies for my repeated questioning- is Jalsa herself able to bestow such a sponsorship? Or, is her participation within the Arceali Guild not ‘Alumnus’ status, and I would need to seek those beyond her?”

“Unfortunately…that’s what makes it hard.” Siranae sighed. “The guild members cannot give sponsorship. Only those that work and rise in rank to graduate can bestow sponsorship…which, at the moment, consists entirely of the parents of the present guild members.”

Siranae sighed with a shrug.

“To most of them, the guild is just a…status symbol.” Siranae said. “An exclusive club. Graduates don’t go on to be famous rescuers, they just continue with their family business after adding the title of ‘Guild Graduate’ to their pile of titles. Then they sponsor their children into the guild. Besides Jalsa…guild membership may as well be blood inheritance…”

The Audino was quiet a moment, finishing the sandwich before her, just as the performers were finishing setting up a new scene.

“That being said…it would be nice to be friends with Jalsa…she seems like she could use some…” Siranae sighed, cupping a palm to her cheek. “She always seemed lonely in the papers, poor thing…”

It was hardly surprising that the Audino’s mind would immediately go there, even as we both were meant to be discussing how to get into the guild.

“That said…I don’t honestly know much about the Leaf Guild.” Siranae shrugged. “Catering work is more of the agriculture guild’s realm, since it deals in food so much. I remember the Merchant, Leaf and Agriculture guilds got in a big argument who regulates catering, after a disastrous banquet at the Arceali Guild Ballroom…and, naturally, the Agricultural Guild won out.”

She hummed, trying to think.

“Leaf guild is like…flower arrangements…garden shops…landscaping…arbor services…park trails and camping sites, even a bit of land development for the Architecture Guild.”

“I see…” A dourness came over my expression. “It would be too hopeful to find catering events for such arduous labor and matters of paperwork as the Leaf Guild undertakes. But I would rather hold my course and find stability, than veer toward unknown waters in a desperate bid for proximity with Jalsa.”

I took a sip of water, easing my throat and mind after the thorough discussion.

“But, even if guild membership may parallel blood inheritance, Jalsa is proof that they are not one and the same. There are still Alumni that will award sponsorship beyond their bloodlines…”

My hands came to rest in my lap, resisting the immature urge to place my tired arms upon the table. Eventually, though, I murmured my thoughts again.

“Caylii is with the Architecture Guild… Siffia is of Water, Zerro of Merchant, Purina and Mulku belong to the Banking and Finance Guild…?” I placed my paws upon the table’s edge, staring down my companion with uncertain ambition. “Siranae- are there members within the Arceali Guild to represent the Machine Guild or the Printing Guild? I admit my ignorance to the finer details of the Houses, but… are there, so to say, open slots in the Arceali Guild that have not been given suitable representatives in nobles’ children?”

“Well, if you mean are there some guilds not represented in the current batch of trainees then, yes.” Siranae nodded. “But that’s to say…Alumni from those guilds simply have yet to sponsor their children. I know for a fact that Molason of the Printing guild and Garsoni of the Machine guild are Alumni of the Arceali Guild…Molason doesn’t have any children and Garsoni’s two children are much too young to join.”

Siranae shrugged with a little sigh, looking over at the stage as the performers took their place and began a new scene and a new slew of rhymed jokes.

“I admit, Jalsa’s induction into the guild fascinates me.” The Audino sighed. “I don’t think Tsuvula had anything to gain from sponsoring Jalsa. Perhaps the Leaf Guild and Water Guilds are trying to come to some arrangement? I don’t know…maybe it really was just something nice for a friend…!”

Likely wishful thinking on Siranae’s part.

“Perhaps a gesture of kindness, yes…” I said, waggling my fork in her direction. “…but your former idea- well, I will not assume it to be true, but I find some likelihood in it. The Arceali Guild trainees are not simply symbols of status, but representative of bonds between guilds, if I have followed your words.”

I stared off at the glimmering stage, mind adrift in my speculation.

“If I am correct… a guild cannot sponsor more than one trainee, yes? Or perhaps it is in poor taste to do, I cannot be sure. But there has only been one trainee to each participating guild, or two in the case of the Banking Guild, that much seems to be the case.” My finger swirled the fork in my paw, as though it could sort through the tangled thoughts I had formed. “If any one guild, already sponsoring a trainee, wished to increase its influence within the Arceali Guild… they would need another guild to sponsor a trainee, one who would speak to the former guild’s best interests. The Machine or Printing Guild could offer that, if they had something to gain from said sponsorship.”

I huffed, eyes closed.

“There must be something the two absent guilds could desire– a land deed from the Architecture Guild, or– or processed steel from the Ironworks Guild. And there must as well be one of the guilds, already present, that could benefit from a second trainee.”

I purred out my words, almost entranced by this line of thought.

“You had said it yourself,” I continued. “Mulku and Purina are partnered perhaps only to cement the bonds of the guilds they represent– so one’s presence and activities within the Arceali Guild bears weight on the statuses of the respective guilds. And, even disregarding the oddity of Tsuvula’s kind sponsorship, it must be possible to convince an Alumnus to offer their blessing. There is nothing in the world of nobles, neither status nor state, that cannot be bartered for. Not even participation in the Arceali Guild.”

My lips curled into an eager smile, even as I tried to temper my own expectations.

“It would be quite difficult to manage, but…I can envision our entry point:

We find what incentivizes the absent guilds, and in which other guild they could attain that incentive– we may ponder, the Machine and Ironworks Guilds, as an example.
We endear ourselves to the Ironworks Guild, show knowledge and dedication to serving its interests, whilst also ingratiating ourselves to Machine Guild Alumni.
And, through subtle suggestion, perhaps even in the sophisticated air of a catered event– the idea of the trade is introduced. The Machine Guild is promised some great bounty of steel and profit, and the Ironworks Guild is given a second trainee to support the interests of a particular Alumnus, interests that are not yet satisfied by the current trainee’s presence.”

With a heavy exhale, I relaxed in my seat, mind still racing from the wave of speculation.

“It is… not a proven plan.” I admitted at last. “I would need to examine the issues at hand more closely, before ensuring any of this is possible. But… it is more concrete than no plan at all. If the Arceali Guild must be reduced to a status symbol for the lesser guilds– then we may find our place in playing to those statuses.”

Siranae’s brow furrowed, the poor girl trying so very hard to follow along with my thinking. Her ears flicked and she scratched her head.

“Huh…” The Audino huffed. “I never thought of it that way…you really think each guild getting representation is so important?”

Siranae stroked her chin in thought, looking down.

“Then again…guild members make a lot of money for jobs…and these are jobs, both crime fighting and menial, that can oftentimes be for the direct benefit of nobles facing some problem or another.” Siranae pondered. “In fact, the trainees in the guild get to meet and talk to a lot of nobles in their work, which I imagine is…probably very important for noble children.”

She folded her arms, closing her eyes.

“But…how are we supposed to be the centerpiece of houses bonding if we’re not even blood kin? Unless…”

Her eyes opened wide.

“…wait…Adelaide, I just thought of something. It’s in the jobs they’re taking, I think…!” Siranae’s voice was steadily raising in pitch. “Zerro and Purina’s team are the top crime fighters…and that’s to say the only crime fighters, and even the ones they do tend to be petty thieves of investigations, nothing major…and nothing terribly profitable. In truth, it can be a bit dull, but…”

The Audino leaned in, her eyes sparkling.

“…what if we take on the more dangerous jobs? The grander adventures? The bigger payouts! Then…uh…then we can! Give the money! To whoever agrees to sponsor us! We’re talking thousands and thousands of coins per job!”

…perhaps I had been excessive in my speech, or too spacious in my logic- I hadn’t meant to ramble in such depth.

But…I felt a pang of unease, with Siranae’s continuation of those ideas.

“Well, that is… not wrong, of course. If the Arceali Guild has shirked its duty, there is surely a void to be filled with adequate workers. And…” My paw dug anxiously at the wooden table. “It certainly sounds more lucrative than toiling with catering work, or at least something to consider in addendum to a stable flow of income. But…”

I flicked my tails, and frowned with concern.

“What does… dangerous work entail?” I said, trying to keep my voice from sounding sheepish. “Crime fighting sounds like a matter to leave to the authorities… do Poke’mon simply volunteer themselves to the line of duty, and apprehend fiends on the streets?”

I pulled my hand back, stroking at my arm nervously.

“I am not… well-trained in anything beyond modest self-preservation. And, natural as this body feels, I’ve hardly exerted it, let alone fought with it. It is not quite ladylike, to engage in fisticuffs for any purpose outside of life-threatening danger, at least from my realm…”

…not to mention, would dangerous Poke’mon bring more of that- that dark magic, as I had witnessed so carelessly doled out by the bookkeeper? Siranae could fight, I knew as much, but I could not imagine her casting some spell or creating dark energies from a flick of her eyes.

Was the Audino even aware of the perils that lay waiting in Arceliaze?

“Aw, don’t be modest!” Siranae’s voice broke me from my thoughts. “I assume every Poke’mon knows how to fight, and-“

The Audino stopped herself with a jolt. Her ears folded back as she shrunk into herself a little.

“Oh…right, you’re not…I forgot for a moment, I apologize.” The Audino sighed, recomposing herself. “But I don’t think you need to worry. I know how to fight and even have a little experience with heal pulse. I’m…guessing you haven’t yet even thrown a bubble or watergun, am I right…?”

She scooted forward, tilting her head.

“I guess we could always find you training on how to use your water…at the worst case, I could fight in your stead! You could be, perhaps, my manager! Some career fighters have those, why not Arceali Guild team?”

I could tell Siranae was getting more and more excited by the idea, a sparkle in her eyes and a flutter of her ears.

“All we’d be doing is taking the highest paying stuff!” She continued on, excitement bubbling more and more in her voice as her mind was carried off by the idea. “In the old days, and by that of course I mean at least one to two-hundred years ago, Guild teams could take on armies of bandits! They went on exciting adventures deep into the unknown, untamed lands of Arcea! Dangerous, violent ne’er-do-wells would fear the shine of a guild badge come to stop them from robbing and killing for entertainment!”

Her smiled widened. I could see it in the sparkle of her eye: the Audino was picturing herself as some kind of knight errant to rival Don Quixote.

“A-aha, well… I would not pit you against armies of unknown creatures, Siranae,” I said with an uneasy laugh. Her enthusiasm was all at once amusing and unnerving- she was truly made for this sort of work, it seemed. Even as it fed the pit in my stomach… I could not bring myself to snuff out the flame that now roared in her heart. “But… I suppose a managerial role, it is something I could perform for you. I would be happy to assure you jobs that pay a fair share, and… let you taste that Arceali Guild lifestyle, in the process.”

I rose a hand, a gentle sign of caution to the girl.

“But…we should not leap headfirst into the most dangerous ventures we can find. No warrior was made from throwing the greenhorns into the maws of war- they are built from the bottom up. Perhaps something akin to guard work…? Where your strength can be relied upon, without being so harshly tested at a moment’s notice. Then, once your presence is established, I can present you as a valuable source of crime-fighting strength, yes?”

“Guard work…? I…do suppose the Guild does guard duty.” Siranae deflated a little. “Though, those are more akin to public meetings. Come see the famous Arceali Guild, Pokemon cry, as the guildmembers stand stoicly…doing nothing.”

My hands pressed at the rim of the table, smile dimming.

“I apologize. Alas, I cannot see myself as more than a guide, or an advisor… I don’t even- I am not sure what you would mean by ‘watergun’, or bubble, or the like…” I winced, turning my head away in shame. “I-I was not still wet when I returned to your home, was I…?”

Siranae perked up at that, looking up at me.

“No no, Adelaide, it’s really no great problem!” Siranae assured. “Fighting is not for everyone and that is okay! And I don’t think I or anyone would expect you to fight with your fists. No, no, a Buizel would fight with her water!”

Siranae giggled for a moment but cut herself off, eyes widening as though she realized she said something rude.

“Oh, but…then again, you likely have no experience with that either, do you, Adelaide? Do humans possess the ability to fire jets of water from their mouths?”

“N-” I nearly recoiled from the bizarre assertion. “N-no…? Why would they? That’s not…”

I felt my fur-coated skin crawl.

“Is that something Poke’mon… generally do? That a… a Buizel does?” By instinct, I brought a paw to my mouth, as though water had been leaking from it for the whole evening- as though I could deflect such an unnerving idea. “I don’t… think I’m, capable of such a thing, aha. Spitting up is something an infant would do, not a lady…”

“No no no, not spitting up, Adelaide!” Siranae assured. “It’s a proper firing from the mouth! Many water types do it, in a slamming jetstream of pounding water that can blow away anyone!”

The Audino sucked in a breath, trying to temper her rising excitement, calming herself.

“I apologize. I feel as though…I’m saying things shocking to you again.” Siranae stilled herself, tilting her head. “What are humans able to do, then? Psychic powers…? Perhaps something like heal pulse, like I do? Do they…throw fireballs like a Charmander can…?”

She tilted her head to the side again, casually handing the bartender some stock certificates to pay for the meal.

“Such powers come naturally to Pokemon, depending on your species…but I know Buizels and Floatzels are masters of water attacks…I would assume that means you can do much the same! Or, well, you can learn to do so…”

“I-I would… no, I would not say that humans are capable of such things. We are- we are thinkers and creators, we do not create water, or ‘heal pulses’, or psychic powers.” I took in a deep breath, settling the fur on the back of my neck. “At most, we… we make weaponry- swords, and pistols, and cannons. Humans are… we are simple.”

I moved my paw to my forehead, trying to soothe the minor ache behind my temple. I would not let myself faint again, I needed to adjust to this world responsibly.

“Is that… why the bookkeeper I had met- is that why she was moving documents without even the movement of her paws?” I narrowed my eyes and lowered my tone, still anxious to even speak of the matter. “I had- I was worried she was channeling arcane magic of some sort, I had thought I’d gone insane simply witnessing it. I-I suppose it being… biological, that is more reasonable…”

“Ah, then they must have been a psychic Poke’mon!” Siranae said, as though trying to dispel the mystique of it. “No no, never fear, Adelaide, that’s nothing abnormal. And as I said, you should have abilities of your own, as a Buizel.”

She took a pause to let the stage performers speak before continuing.

“Though I admit…as much as you find fascination with the everyday abilities of Poke’mon…I find myself still yet curious of humans. No powers, no water, no heal pulses but tools…and you still speak of cities in your human world…”

Her eyes sparkled in wonder, her expression glowing with imagination.

“To think…humans must be amazing creatures in their own right…!”

I let my eyes drift, still handling what I’d been presented with. I could… spew jets of water? One of my paws shifted to my torso- I certainly did not feel as though I was laden with liquid, ready to be shot out at a moment’s notice. And yet, I could be certain of nothing in this realm of Poke’mon.

Siranae hummed excitedly, looking out across the fire grill, her legs kicking. After a moment, the Audino at last leapt down from her seat, looking up at me.

“Adelaide, I must say…that once again, this night has been among the best I’ve had, rivaled only by yesterday.” The Audino smiled warmly, clasping her hands together. “Beyond anything else, I can certainly say my nights have become much brighter with a friend. Tell me, did you ever browse stores when you were a human? Perhaps a bit of harmless loitering? I’d love for us to do anything that might help you feel more comfortable in Arceliaze!”

I snapped back into the conversation, trying to process the Audino’s words. This was not the time to fret over what Poke’mon were and were not.

“Ah… I am happy to share such quiet nights with you, dear Siranae.” I said at once. “Truth be told, I’ve needed some relief from the expectations and preparations made today… being able to speak so freely with you has helped to assuage that strain. Even if it has raised quite a many question itself.”

My legs crossed.

“…I would say humans are less fantastical than Poke’mon, in a sense. But we are not so different, too- perhaps only, more universities and fewer public crime fighters. I have never seen a lady be so eager to clash steel with another being, let alone one that does so with her fists.” I uttered a light giggle. “Still, I suppose similarities do not… ease homesickness. I have learned so much in these few days, and yet I feel still a stranger in Arceliaze.”

I placed my elbow upon the table, and rested my cheek in one palm.

“By this time tonight, I would have been finishing my studies and compiling my notes… flipping through Ivanhoe or one of the other books in my dormitory… waiting to share my thoughts with Piera, or else join her on a trip to the library. Sharing ideas on the philosophical and spiritual. It feels… distant now.”

I looked to Siranae, almost… hopeful, with my stare.

“I suppose… we could find some literature together? Or… visit a church- any sort of temple, perhaps…? Even simply a longer chat over the meal- I find the time with you quite helpful, dear.”

Siranae smiled warmly, stepping closer to hold your paw in hers.

“Actually, that’s a splendid idea…” The Audino said. “I often go to the Avelzhin Baij Temple. Z’Node Hersonus doesn’t mind visitors after-hours if they want to just talk to Arceus a bit.”

Her hand squeezed mine softly.

“And…I do not think Arceus would mind you using his temple to talk to your God. It’s only fair.”

I gave a weak smile back, letting my dreary thoughts subside. With that squeeze, I slid off of my seat, tails almost dragging behind me.

“I would… appreciate that, very much. I can only hope some time spent in a place of worship will lessen the distance between my Lord and myself.”

I giggled lightly, glancing at the stage one more time.

“If I should instead hear from Arceus again… I hope he will not bear any disdain for me using his temple to commune with another force than himself. He has already made me a Buizel– I cannot imagine what he would do as retribution.”

The laughter did not settle the unease in me. A Buizel, no longer even human… a furred creature that spat water by its nature. But I could not allow myself to fester– I stepped forward, still holding Siranae’s hand tight.

There would be answers– there would be peace, if I came with her. Whether tonight, or through the pursuit of that… crime-fighting career of hers, if it had to be so. Whatever would narrow the gap between ourselves and the Conduit.

The Audino tugged my hand, leading me out of the fire grill, back out onto the street.

By now, the sun had already crested the hills of the valley far above, leaving a clear and starry night sky above. The air was chilled as I had come to expect, but the frost was at least not being replenished with another snowfall.

The crowd was plentiful, though we both were not deep into the Old District. Indeed, I could see the gate to the New District just down the road, with its glittering lantern light along the buildings signalling the beginning of the Arcean nightlife.

I could even hear the distant cry of Illaminian music, blaring down far away.

Siranae led me to the warm cobblestone of the New District as we both made our way toward the more opulent center. Even from here I could see the intense glow of multiple torches of that ostentatious area around the castle.

“I admit, I’m curious to learn about your god…” Siranae said, looking back. “If you are from another world then I suppose it makes sense if it’d have another god.”

I stared up at the torchlight, its glow twinkling against the lingering frost – in that gleam, where the world blurred at the edges of the halation, I could almost forget I was… here. Arceliaze could be some street corner I’d poorly recalled, and home could be mere minutes away.

But such illusion did not last, as I tuned into Siranae’s gentle words.

“I had thought the opposite,” I muttered, looking to the girl in turn. “I had… I have been raised knowing my Lord as the only one of His kind. To put another above Him- to put any other even upon His level- such a thought is sacrilegious. He was the one that created the Heavens and the Earth, and through Him would anything divine or righteous be made. If not the work of the Lord, or not the work of one of his angels, it would not be divine.”

My snout dipped down, as I stared at the road beneath our feet.

“And yet… I stand here. Having spoken to a force unlike anything mortal, and having been reshaped by it, yet still affirming that he is not my God. I do not know how it… aligns with my beliefs. If this being is an angel, I do not know what power he holds to send mortal men across the boundaries of worlds, and call himself a god. If he is another almighty being… I simply do not know what to think of him.”

Siranae pondered that, her eyes wandering upward where the grand red planet stared back down at her.

“I can understand that…if I may confess, I thought much of the same way.” Siranae sighed. “When you first came with me home I thought you confused and speaking nonsense…but that was hurting you and you were my friend. So now instead I try my best to assume everything you say is true.”

She flicked her ears, as though listening to my response.

“So I’ve had to take what is true to you and true to me and make, in my brain, a sort of marriage of the two.” Siranae said. “And I think to myself…does a king have to rule every castle or can he just be a king unto his own castle? And just like that, your God can easily be the highest god in the human world. Need he rule this one as well…?”

…I let my head rise from the slump it had fallen to. Even with the disbelief her world brought to me, and that mine would bring to her… Siranae’s trust was a beacon. This tumultuous place was, if nothing else, less lonely with her light beside me.

I let out a sigh and spoke once more.

“I suppose it would… make sense, for a God to have His Heavens and Earth, and… another to exist beyond it. Separate, disconnected… none above the other. It is simply difficult to accept, no matter how truer it rings than silencing all signs of Arceus’s existence.” I sighed, stroking through the fur on the back of my neck as we walked down what must have been the busiest and loudest street in the New District. “Yet, what am I to make of Arceus, then…? A deity that wrests men from one world and summons them to another. Such power almost seems demonic in nature…”

With an anxious pause, I glanced my eyes at Siranae.

“I… I apologize, if any of this should offend.” I said with haste. “I simply wish my faith to be kept… pure. God’s light should not be dimmed, no matter the distance or the forces that are not of His whim.”

My tails flicked at the air, while I glanced to the bright buildings with their melodic sounds. Dear Siranae thought, more and more than I had ever assumed upon our first meeting. She had such dimensions to her mind, and…Mama would seek to keep them sheltered to the point of suffocation.

We were worlds apart, in all senses but the physical- and yet, I saw some of myself reflected in her bright eyes and thoughtful soul.

There was a comfort to it.

The crowd thinned as we both continued on. I was able to see opulent spires in the distance, likely the temple. The chill seemed to deepen as a light whispy fog curled over the warm stones, circling around my legs.

I felt the Audino squeeze my hand softly after a moment of silence.

“No, no…I understand.” Siranae continued. “I, too, would like to keep my own faith, pure. I only hoped to reconcile our different worlds…but.”

She squirmed, her hand giving yours a squeeze…almost sympathetically.

“Kidnapping someone from another world and dropping them here…does not sound like my kindly Arceus.”

The street seemed to quiet more and more.

The voices of crowds became little more than a rumble…

I stared into Siranae, then looked away. If only the roar of the crowd could silence such uneasy thoughts…

“The voice… did not call itself Arceus, admittedly. I had only learned the name from you – the voice only said it was a God to the beings of this realm, and that I was to seek out Lippi, the one close to it, for she asked me to be brought. If there are other deities here… I would wish to know of them, if only to find some coherence in our understandings.”

I sighed, letting the fog twirl over my fur while I marched onward, my hand not leaving Siranae’s for a moment.

“If the force was not Arceus, I do not know what else it would be.” I said. “If it was, there would have to be an explanation.”

I stared ahead at the frigid street.

“Perhaps Arceus saw this gesture as ‘kindly’ to his world… perhaps Lippi’s request outweighed his kindness. Perhaps he has… simply changed his ways, if Lippi’s reclusive behavior is any indication. I cannot say for certain- I cannot claim to know Arceus better than you, whether or not I have spoken with him. It is not in my nature to challenge the knowledge of the faithful.”

Siranae’s ears flattened at that final thought. She didn’t say anything in reply for a while, only trudging ahead along the increasingly spacious, cold street. After a while, she gently sighed, looking back at me.

“You’re too right, Adelaide…” She said mornfully. “If a Conduit should behave so strangely to her congregation then so too, I can imagine, would Arceus…perhaps he really has become fed up with Poke’mon, and has seen fit to…”

She sucked in a breath, stopping herself.

“…no. I can’t believe Arceus would abandon us. If he brought me you, then that simply cannot be…” Siranae said, as though trying to right herself from a spiral. “But whatever the reason, and as grateful as I am to have you here with me, I have made a promise to help you get home and I shall keep it.”

The Audino punctuated the declaration with a nod, her voice echoing over the empty street.

For it was empty.

No other Poke’mon walked across or with us.

The sound of the crowd had…vanished…

The cold was beginning to settle heavy on us.

The fog thickened. More and more.

…

…something was wrong.

…I came to a halt, pulling Siranae back and glaring at the misty expanse before us. My heart quickened.

“Siranae… do you know where we are?” I whispered to the girl with a quiet hesitation. “You said we were visiting a temple, but I cannot see… anything, or any one in this dreadful spot.”

My eyes darted about the area, no matter how futile that was. My tails sliced against the haze defiantly.

“…this is too desolate for Arceliaze. Even I can tell that much.” I scowled and shivered in the chill around me. “I think we should… retrace our steps to the eatery, if you do not mind-“

“Huh?” Siranae looked back at me. “Yeah I know where this is, it’s the main road up to the…?”

Her ears flicked, her eyes darting away from you in confusion. The Audino lifted her head, looking across the road.

The barren road. The swirling fog.

“Wha…”

Siranae…slowly traced her gaze around the street.

“That’s a little odd…this is the busiest street in Arceliaze. It’s not usually this dead at this time of night…” Siranae mused, confused…but not yet worried.

But I felt it in my heart.

The lanterns…were put out.

The windows were all dark here.

No noises cut the silence.

It was bizarrely dark, more than I’d ever seen in any part of this opulant district. Surely a district so well kept would never be allowed to get like this…

…no, this was wrong.

I took a shallow, wispy breath of the fog around me.

Without a sound, Arceliaze’s gleam and glammer had been dulled to a steely emptiness.

This was… by design, and the culprit had not even shown themselves.

This was not a place for two ladies, I thought. It was unsafe if nothing else, to loiter in the dark, where miscreants could rob them blind. It could get far, far worse than that.

“We shouldn’t be here,” I huffed, giving Siranae’s arm a pull. “I don’t know how, or why… but someone wants us here, isolated and unseeing. We could be accosted at any moment.”

I gritted my teeth at the thought, but spoke again.

“Siranae- you can… hear quite well, can you not? Enough to- enough to hear a heartbeat from afar. Is there anyone else here…?”

“What are you-“

Siranae’s voice was frightened. I’d never heard it frightened before. But all the same she saw my expression, heard my heartbeast, and flicked her ears at once. Her head turned towards the end of the street.

“There’s…” Siranae huffed. I felt her hand shake as it gripped my paw.

The fog rolled, curling around me like a hundred whispy vipers. There, just beyond a stretch of fog…

…two figures stood, their backs to us.

Slowly walking from where we stood.

Siranae’s ears flicked. Swiveled.

“I did not notice anything amiss at first..b-but…”

Her eyes darted left, right…

Her body shook.

“There’s…hundreds of heartbeats.” Siranae whispered. Voice shaking.

She was frozen. Unnerved. Even the stars above seemed to dull on the darkened street.

Siranae’s eyes were transfixed on the two figures ahead.

They were dark, hunched over…but something about their faces…

…no. No, she was wrong. There could not be more than a dozen in the buildings around us, with how dead-still Arceliaze had become. Those figures, under the dimmed red moonlight… they’d dispelled the crowd somehow, and they’d used it to instill this fear in the air.

“Can you… recognize those two?” I whispered, staring ahead at the strangers. “Are they Poke’mon that… that can manifest this? The fog, and the darkness…?”

I could not tell what was worse- that a Poke’mon might have made such a terror, or that it was a force beyond them.

My heart pounded in my ears.

I looked aside, hoping to find an alley that we could stow ourselves in, where those figures would not haunt us. Why did their faces seem so… wrong?

Siranae was silently, stepping back towards me.

“I don’t…know what this is…” The Audino said, quivering.

She gasped.

Slowly, her head, turned upwards. Her ears furiously swerved and swiveled and darted, hearing the hundreds and hundreds of heartbeats…

…from the hundreds and hundreds of shadowy figures that stood upon the rooftops.

All in a neat line. Watching the street.

The Audino’s breath hitched. The two figures ahead stopped, as though they had…heard us both. My body tightened, the void-like stares of those monsters piercing whatever veil I’d mustered. Ghosts, beasts that haunted this place still-

Slowly…they turned.

White faces. Horrifying, ivory white faces stared us down with pitch black eyes from shadowed figures.

A scream rang out.

A desperate, howling, dying scream.

The fog SWIRLED and blocked our vision as the street rumbled with the gurgling, dying scream.

Siranae clutched me, screaming as well. The heart-stopping howl mixing with the ROAR of the wind.

I couldn’t breathe, couldn’t think past the echoing shrieks- and I let loose a scream with Siranae, holding her body without restraint. I was close to dying in that terror, tails slashing violently at the air, trying something, anything to free ourselves from the ghastly presences…!

The screams that SHOOK the brick gurgled, wheezed, whimpered. It mixed with the crunch of bone, the searing of flesh. My heartbeat POUNDED my chest as Siranae held me tight, her eyes flicking upward to the rooftops.

The figures retreated.

The fog billowed in the wind. Only shadows could be seen in the haze.

Siranae’s breath hitched.

I could feel something…warm…wet…pooling around my foot.

And a single lump, shadowy, lie where the two figures had stood.

Siranae covered her mouth, immediately looking away.

I could smell it. It was unmistakable.

…blood.

My breaths were quick and weak, taking in the wretched haze and the metallic sting of iron. I could embrace that sickening black void I had known when I first came to this world, if it would free me from the pain those creatures had invoked.

I forced my eyes open, still squinting into the distorted space around myself, quivering at the sight of the wetness beneath me.

I was terrified, I was afraid… I was-

I was furious. I did not deserve this torment- Siranae did not deserve this torment-

I moved forward, hands still clutching the Audino to make sure she was not lost from me, staring into that blood-coated lump.

What had they done? What was this horrid thing, that the spirits had forced upon us for the crime of simply existing in Arceliaze?

[CW START]

Blood pooled from the lump, tracing down the lines of the stone I walked upon.

To my horror, I saw first that it was not a whole lump. No, it was in chunks.

I could see…a long neck. Green skin. Anntenae torn from the head. Four stubby legs, one…severed from the main body. What looked like a large flower hung crumbled from its neck.

As the fog disappated…it was hard to look at. The scent was nauseating.

Multiple slashes to the neck. One long across the abdomen, exposing viscera within. Eyes rolled up, mouth stretched open in a permanent scream.

It was a Poke’mon. Dead. Mutilated.

And worst of all..left on display in the middle of the street.

“HELP!!!” I heard Siranae shriek behind me. “THERE’S A BODY! SOMEONE’S DEAD!!”

Her voice…it shook me to my core.

All the while I simply…stared, at the mangled remains of a Poke’mon. A massive beast, reduced to shreds on the street before us, blood still fresh and searing at my senses.

I couldn’t speak. There was no strength in my throat to even whisper, and whatever was left of my resolve was snuffed out by that quivering voice that Siranae had made. With whatever force I could muster, I averted my eyes, though the gruesome mess still tainted my mind.

My paws clutched Siranae tighter- all I could think to do, to quell some of that terror in her heart. Or, perhaps, simply to stifle the fear in my own.

Why…? What- what purpose was there, to this pain, to this cruelty? Even a beast looked so mortal when it was dealt this horrid blow…

Siranae’s screams continued on, turned away from the horror, doing her best to not look at it. She waved her arms to what looked to be far-off approaching citizens, the Audino loudly shouting for help.

Soon, the silence of the street began to break down. The rumble of the crowd, footsteps returning.

The lanterns…when did they come back on?

Windows lit up, opening as Poke’mon peered out to see the screaming Audino girl. Many of them immediately averted their gaze upon looking our way.

Mortified. I couldn’t mutter even a bit, pressing closer to Siranae, even as I still felt traces of the Poke’mon’s blood cling to my foot.

The voices of the crowd turned to shouting. Siranae was crying as she tried to talk to a group that approached. But the voices were all a…garbled mess. All my mind seemed to be able to perceive was the horror lying dead on the street.

In what seemed like no time, like magic, just at the perfect time too late, a crowd had gathered on the street, looking and retching at the corpse on the street. A number of gruff voices demanded the crowd split. I could see a number of large-bodied Poke’mon in gleaming armor push through to see the body.

Siranae pulled me closer as she backed off, as though trying to escape the corpse of the strange four-legged beast.

“…Adelaide…?”

Siranae addressed me. As though trying to break me from the spell cast on me, the girl put a hand on my shoulder, trying to direct my attention.

“…Adelaide…don’t look…”

[Adelaide and Siranae discover a body of a Pokemon not just murdered but put on sordid display in the street to be found]

[CW END]

Even as I stood there, breathless, barely conscious with how my head pounded- I held Siranae tighter, ripping myself from that mental torture, trying to focus on her eyes. The noise of the crowd and the horrid blood still hounded my mind, trying to prevent even the weakest eye contact I could make with the Audino.

“Wh… what is…?”

My eyes darted to the left and right- some stupid reflex to witness what I had been told to avoid. Was the crowd here to gawk at our suffering, as those spirits had before, or to slice and ruin us as well?

I couldn’t keep a thought straight. With hiccupping breaths, I nodded to Siranae, keeping my gaze on her- ignoring the steelclad Poke’mon and the scene behind me, only fixing myself on the Audino so that the terror did not set in again.

“Are we… safe, here? W-we need to leave, Siranae…”

“We’re safe, we’re…” Siranae gripped me, unable to even finished her sentence, only able to look up at the horrified faces of the surrounding Poke’mon. I could hear the sound of someone vomiting.

A shouting caught my attention, making Siranae perk up. The armor-clad Poke’mon circled the body, barking at the crowd to back away and give them space.

“Oi, back up! Back!” The guards shouted, urging the riled up crowd back.

“Right! What’s this?! Who saw it!?” Another guard roared as his companion knelt by the body, a look of fear on his face as he examined it. “What happened here?! Speak up!”

I panted while I regained myself, looking over to the guards- there was no way for me to fully avoid looking in the direction of that corpse, but I thanked the Lord that the intruding forces prevented me from properly seeing it once more.

“The… those creatures-” I huffed, silently. “Those skull-covered monsters- d-did the officers not… see them? They were-“

I looked to the rooftops- now, I would praise the sight of those terrible figures, if I could direct the authorities onto them and set something right.

…no. None of those creatures- all the beasts now were in the crowd around us.

“I…dunno…” Siranae whispered.

The guards, I had not the mental fortitude at the time to analyze their features, terrified as I was, near to a passion, continued to bark questions at the crowd.

Siranae swallowed hard as a few of the crowd members began pointing to she and I as the ones to discover the body. The girl was just as shocked and scared as I was, hardly able to really answer in the grueling minutes that passed.

“Back off!” The guard shouted. “We’re makin’ a crime scene, on yer way, don’t muck up the evidence!”

The crowd shouted demands for answers.

“Now, now, all in due time, citizens! We’ve not even identified the victim.” The large beast, what seemed a red dragon, but all was a hazy fever dream to me, turned towards Siranae and I, snapping his fingers. “Right, you two.”

“Uh…us…?” Siranae stammered in fear. One of the guards turned away, having to remove himself from the scene, while the dragon stayed behind to talk to us.

“Yes, you, which way did the culprit go? Did you see this happen?”

“We…we…saw…” Siranae gulped.

“Out with it! They could still be on the loose!” The guard barked. His fiery glance turned to me. “What of you, Ms.Buizel? You found the body did you not? ‘Tis a fresh killing and you were right on top of it and found it right away. Body’s still warm on a winter’s night, the killer could be in spittin’ distance! Speak!”

I stared up into the blurred visage of the beast, chest still pounding, head still aching-

I took a harsh breath in, tempering some of the frustration I’d felt before – I knew better than to risk legal punishment, especially when so much lay at stake. This was not the time to lash out at a mindless guard, regardless of how little strength I had to do so.

“There were-” I practically coughed the words. “These… creatures- sickening white faces, like skulls. Two of them, on the street- maybe more on the rooftops, I could not discern- one of them with oafish long ears-“

I uselessly slung a paw behind my head, to demonstrate the odd shape the smaller fiend bore.

“They stared at us, then there was… there was a scream, and the blood was at our feet. We had thought we were going to perish…”

My paws held Siranae an ounce closer with the memory of it. There were dozens upon dozens of those freakish things before… was that simply a delusion? It felt too bizarre to even state, lest my claims be turned away for the absurdity. Even if I knew in my heart that I had seen them.

“Oh what’s this useless girl blabberin’ about-OI!” The dragon snapped at Siranae. The Audino looked close to tears and much of the crowd was getting cross with the guard. “Is any of that wash true?”

Siranae squeaked…and softly nodded.

“Every word?”

Siranae gripped me tighter and nodded again.

The dragon snorted, signaling to another guard to take notes.

“D’ja get all that?” The dragon asked. The smaller bear-like Poke’mon huffed, writing on a small thick card with an inked claw.

“White faces…like skulls…two on the street…one with long ears.” The bear Poke’mon cocked an eyebrow. “Cubone or Duskull maybe?”

“U-uhm…” Siranae said, making the two guards look up at her, to which she flinched. “They were walking, not floating…they didn’t look like Cubone…they looked like different Poke’mon-“

“Wearing skulls?” The dragon questioned. Siranae nodded, huffing a shaky breath. The dragon looked back at the bear, who only shrugged, looking just as lost.

There was a pause. The voices of the crowd was growing more and more restless.

Soon, after a minute of silently conferring, the guards looked ready to ask another slew of questions.

“HALT ALL, TO YE.”

A voice sliced through the crowd, silencing it. Siranae flinched at the loud voice, fearful.

Another wave of voices came from the crowd.

It sounded like…awed whispering.

To the side, the crowd was parting, making way for two figures that approached.

Siranae’s breath caught in her throat. She perked up.

“…Adelaide…” She whispered. The guards looked back at the pair as they approached the crime scene. “That’s…”

I recognized them. A Meowstic and a Skitty, their guild badges shimmering in the light of the lanterns. I vaguely recalled seeing the pair the night Siranae and I staked out the guild.

Two guildmembers had arrived: Purina and Mulku.

I looked upon the duo with some shred of bewilderment- they show themselves now, mere minutes after they could have prevented any of this horror? It almost felt to be an insult- but I stifled that irrational anguish.

The Arceali Guild- its finest team, if that meant anything, with how poor their competition was. I could not tell if I should have felt blessed or cursed at seeing them emerge from the crowd.

Were they going to set things right…?

I stood up straight, steadying myself. On instinct, I shifted myself just slightly, as though I might protect Siranae from further strain. Whether physical or verbal- these creatures should not render more pain onto her.

No words passed my lips. I did not want to leave a bad impression, or sully ourselves in the guild’s eyes. I only waited, tails flicking at the air behind me.

The voices of crowd quietly whispered, a relief overtaking everyone as the guild members stood, their mere presence calming the agitated crowd.

The Skitty stood stoic as her Meowstic leader slowly swept her eyes over the scene, guard, crowds, body and all.

And for a while she only stood…doing nothing…saying nothing.

Siranae’s grip on me tightened.

Then…at last…Purina, that Meowstic…took a step forward. The crowd was silent. I could hear to sound of her paws hitting the smooth stone.

Her eyes trained down at the mutilated corpse. She was expressionless for the most part, save for a small sneer that now decorated her face, looking almost disdainfully at the body.

She paused for another impressive moment…then lifted her head to the dragon, the large Poke’mon immediately standing upright, looking intimidated by the bipedal cat a fraction of his size.

“Constable. Has this sorry soul been identified?” Purina asked. Her voice was almost sing-songy, even as her expression was grave.

“No indeed, Zu’Conveytion Purina.” The dragon said, trying to keep formal. All his barking and shouting was nowhere to be seen. “All we’ve managed is a description of the suspect.”

Purina narrowed her eyes, turning her head toward the bear who jumped at her gaze.

“Out with it. At once.” She commanded.

“The suspect was described as a pair of Poke’mon, possibly more on the rooftops…both wearing skulls. But not Cubone or Duskull, but other Poke’mon wearing some skull as mask?”

“Useless.” Purina scoffed, waving the officer away. “Some gang or another, or a band of ruffians with a bone to pick, I’ve no time for them.”

There was a murmur amongst the crowd. The Meowstic looked back down at the body, seemingly unfazed by the gore, which was in itself a little alarming. After a moment, she looked back up to the dragon, the ‘constable’.

“Constable Herrickus, this woman is Varsae of the 44th Duphimevini House of Commerce and Shipments.” Purina said in an official tone, loud enough so all could hear. “An Illaminian lesser noblewoman, slain on the stones of Arceliaze.”

The Dragon and Bear nervously looked to one another.

“A-are you sure…?” The bear stammered, earning a sharp look from Purina.

“Of course I’m sure. She was a guest at my father’s dinner party for our major clients. She was to attend Prista’s coming banquet at the guild.” The Meowstic informed, flicking her head. “And in such short time in the country she’s already landed trouble upon herself. What a pity.”

“This…this bodes ill…” The dragon huffed, wiping his brow. “…this could spell trouble. Enormous troubles.”

“That shall be Lippi’s problem, not mine.” Purina sighed, wiping down her fur. “And I suppose in all the time the guard has spent gawking there’s not even been an attempt at an area sweep?”

“I-…”

“Well, well. If you don’t give the order in the next minute you can start looking for another job.” Purina threatened without missing a beat, making the dragon jump. “Chop chop.”

Without more than a terrified squeak, the dragon darted off with the other guards, whistling and shouting for other guards to join them, their footsteps thundering off, vanishing them like magic.

Purina sighed, looking back down at the body, then over to her partner.

“Mulku, call for a coroner at the nearest clinic. We need to get this cleaned up as soon as possible.”

“Aye, aye.”

I stared at the scene silently. I could not parse if Purina was dedicated to avenging this noblewoman’s tragic death, or simply going through the motions of concluding a murder scene. There was some kind of disgust that hung about me as I watched her, yet I tried to quell it. She was accomplishing something, and that was more than all I’d mustered whilst cowering from the sight of it all.

Was this the moment where we could proffer ourselves to the guild, become assets in our eyes?

No… not like this– not over the body of a woman, slain mere moments ago.

But I stepped forward ignoring those selfish thoughts- I wanted only to offer what I could, and settle the terror that had sprung within me from that experience.

“Wh-!” Siranae choked back a yelp as I suddenly stepped forward. She held tight to my hand but forced herself to look away.

“Miss… Miss Purina,” I called, voice still hoarse from my earlier scream. “I do not know what it would aid, but… I can offer what little we experienced, for a fuller account of the events before this horrible incident. It would do me good, to settle this affair in some small way.”

All the while, my grip did not leave the Audino, my voice did not raise to any degree that I’d cause the girl more stress. If she wished to be silent, or if she wished to leave, I would allow it- but I needed to speak my piece, beyond solely listing two of the beasts we had seen.

Mulku, the Skitty, had already departed betwixt the crowd. Purina, meanwhile, lifted her head, her sharp gaze coming upon me.

“Who might you be? Did you witness this?” Purina asked, brow furrowed. “Ah, or perhaps you are the one who gave the description of our supposed suspect?”

She shook her head, turning to face me.

“The Constable must have grossly misheard you. Likely whipped up by some sensationalized story or another, the worthless codger.” The Meowstic scoffed, smoothing out the hair atop her head. “Out with it, then. And know that I’ve no time for embellishments nor urban legends.”

I huffed, almost put off by how rapidly she would craft her own image of the scene and the people around her. Did she wish to hear me speak, or did she wish to use me as a prop for more assumptions?

Nonetheless, I spoke.

“My friend Siranae and I, we were heading to a nearby temple. As we walked, though, there was… a fog of some sort.” I rose a paw, motioning it through the empty air. “I had asked Siranae if there was some Poke’mon which could make such a mist, before those… figures appeared. Two creatures with ivory skulls adorning their heads… only one of them showed any part of themselves.”

Another gesture, stroking the air behind my head.

“Long ears… black-tipped. Possibly yellow at the base, but… the mist was enveloping much of the area. I had…” I sighed lightly. “I had almost thought there were more of them, on the rooftops… but I am willing to assume this was a delusion of my fear. Before I could make heads or tails of the situation… there was a horrid scream, and the blood was pooling at our feet. I only wish I could provide more, for what we had to witness…”

My eyes wandered off of Purina, thoughts adrift in a wash of confusion and concern. My gaze had fallen in the body’s direction once more.

“Do you… think the victim’s identity was playing a part in this?” I muttered, barely cognizant. “A high-profile figure, slain before a lauded political gathering-“

“Tch…”

Purina’s scoff was immediate and cut off my question. Her eyes rolled upward, turning her head away from me.

“Once again with the Poke’mon wearing skulls. Is this some silly folk monster you rabble have dreamed up and decided to use in lieu of logic and facts?” The Mewostic sneered, shaking her head. “I will not honor these fairy tales with the attention you lot crave when spouting such rubbish.”

Without even a bit of further acknowledgement, the girl looked back down at the corpse, standing between it and myself so I did not have to (nor were able to) look at it any more.

“The guild shall hear no more of these ‘skull Poke’mon’ henceforth.” Purina continued. “Especially not when concerning a high-profile murder such as this. I imagine some disgruntled client has become fed up with her companies’ shipping rates or more likely a debt collector. Goodness knows how many accounts she had to settle from less reputable sources. If only she’d taken father’s offer for consolidation. Oh well.”

She shrugged, lifting her head as another pair of Poke’mon approached, both wearing a crowd of flowers on their head. The Skitty, Mulku, followed behind, rushing back to Purina like a dog to its master.

The two flower-crowned Poke’mon immediately threw a sheet over the grotesque image, the cloth staining red immediately as it settled on the body. Purina looked down at Mulku, whispering something to her in secret.

All the while, Siranae only stared in silence. In her eyes I could see such…disbelief that any of this was truly happening.

That we both had seen a murder. An assassination.

That we both were watching it simply…brushed aside. Treated like such regularity. I could see an unnerved look in Siranae’s expression, watching Purina work and control the situation, even as she completely blew off my testimony.

There was a tightness in my chest. My paw squeezed onto Siranae’s, as if I could keep hold of the normalcy, keep firm her safety and convictions. It was slipping from our fingers by the second.

“I understand,” I said quietly. “It is not the guild’s business to solve a given problem. Merely document its existence, and carry on. I apologize for assuming otherwise, Miss Purina.”

Another group of guards filed in from behind Mulku. Purina’s response to my remark was no more than an ear flick, if that was even due to what I said.

Nay, she was guild, a noble, and far beyond me, a mere commoner.

Stood a few feet from her.

And yet a million miles away.

I turned myself from the wicked scene, moving to block some of Siranae’s view… she did not need to be privy to such abhorrent behavior. She was not so heartless as these fetid felines.

“Siranae. We should excuse ourselves, should we not…?” I asked, pondering, or perhaps pleading. I did not want her to endure this any longer, and… were I to remain in Purina’s presence, my tongue would slip much further than simply a sarcastic remark. “The guild has finished its work here… the situation will, be resolved another day. And, I should think you deserve some rest…”

The guard began barking for the crowd to disperse and leave, the threatening jabs they made toward the crowd making Siranae curl her arms around me more. She shuffled away, betwixt two large Poke’mon that complained, holding me to get us both away from the horrid scene. Already, wood barricades were being set up, rope run across to close down the whole street as more guard and investigators filed in, shoving out the sea of onlookers.

Soon, the visage of the crowd was framed by two building as Siranae pulled us into a well-lit alley where many Poke’mon stood in their gardens and porches, looking toward the street and talking to one another about what on earth could be going on.

Lots of light. Lots of witnesses. Safe.

She lead me to a bench, never letting go, not saying a word until we both could collapse on its cool, snow-covered surface. And only at that moment…did Siranae breathe at last.

A gasping breath like a woman surfacing water for air.

Another. A sob.

The Audino curled into herself a little, tears streaming down her face, a hand held to her mouth. Her sobs were quiet, barely able to be heard by any but I.

That tightness in my chest twisted- a snaring snap at my heartstrings, as I looked down at Siranae.

By second nature, my arms had pulled her into my chest- I kept her in that embrace, sheltering her from the bitter cold that had seeped into her gentleness. A paw pressed at the back of her head, warming, petting if only to ease out the sorrow that had formed within her.

How dare, I could only think. How dare that guild fiend treat a cohort’s death with such unabashed indifference? How dare she see Siranae’s turmoil and brand the girl a liar? What did she have in her, to deign other lives meaningless?

I gritted my teeth, head resting against Siranae’s.

It was not right. She had warned me of the guild’s shallow nature of recent years… I had not been prepared to witness it first-hand, let alone be the victim of its cruelty. Neither had she.

“I’m sorry,” I sputtered out, thoughtless. “I’m… sorry you had to bear this, Siranae. Those two are simply…”

A weak grunt.

“Cruel. They are not what the Arceali Guild deserves, they are not what this city deserves… they are not what you deserve. It is horrid enough that they shirk their duties… it should not veer into mistreatment of so noble a girl as yourself. I am sorry…”

There was so much in Siranae’s quiet sobs into my chest.

Terror. Disappointment. Empathy and sadness for another. Crushed spirits. Shock.

And yet…still she was so…quiet. From afar one might think her merely asleep against me. So much broiling inside her but so very quiet.

Shallow was the word. Purina had looked at the body of an associate with all the respect of a lump of meat or rotten fruit littering the street. How many grisly scenes had she scene? What could make a guild member so numb? Then to act so knowing, so…so…

…so much like a noble.

Siranae, for her spiraling misery, did try to compose herself. She did not simply let herself be sad and furious as she ought. Perhaps, unfortunately…yet more of Mama’s teachings and script, taught over years of Siranae’s life.

This poor girl…

…more and more, perhaps, it felt…

…a world like this really would chew her up and spit her out.

I could feel it, too. The crushing pressure of an elite that did not… care. Nobles who disdained the hard work and dedication needed to save even themselves from gruesome deaths, rulers that stayed locked in golden towers, the mandate of a deity that none heard and none spoke for. It was…

It was painfully, harshly familiar. These worlds were not the same- this was not the realm of my Lord. And yet, each failure of Arceliaze gnawed at my subconscious, as though a blackened mirror of the wealthy layabouts and careless clergymen and warmongering nations I seen for myself. Disgust welled up within me.

This world would not treat her right. This world would not treat me right. Whether noble-born or raised from the earth up, all were filth to the gilded eyes of Arceliaze’s finest.

I could not let this world stand. Not if I wished to even glance Lippi’s countenance. Not if Siranae was to belong to those adventurers and heroes that she deserved to call her own. Something had to give.

I held Siranae closer. She wouldn’t be alone in her fear and longing, not anymore.

“You deserve… better, Siranae. This Arceliaze does not treat so wondrous a person as you with any degree of the respect you are owed. And I…” I huffed, shutting my eyes tight. “I want to join that simple-minded Arceali Guild. Someone must set right what has so dreadfully decayed with the protectors of this country. If not for the disrespected dead and the shunned living… then for you.”

I grimaced even with my own words- was a promise to right the wrongs of the world solace to a girl like her? One who had endured so much, and would bear yet more in silence… but I had meant every ounce of them.

Some part of me hoped to revive the resolve in her, as though it would heal her spirit in turn. I pressed my tails around Siranae’s side, deepening that desperate embrace.

“I just… wish things to be right for you. I am so dearly, dearly sorry…”

I did not notice it at first…but as I spoke, Siranae’s quiet sobs lessened and lessened. Ever more the soft-hearted girl stilled her misery to listen to my every word. When she leaned against me, feeling my tails curl around her…she was silent.

The Audino shifted, nestling into me. I wondered if she could hear my heartbeat, if the sound soothed her, knowing a friend was so close by.

A huff. I felt the fur on my chest wave and brush against her warm breath.

Then a simple phrase.

“If it is not right…then what can we do but make it better…” Siranae whispered. To me…and herself.

She buried herself a little deeper into me. Quiet. Evermore quiet.

I pressed myself against her. I put my faith in our words, and… with that hope, I rested.

Someday soon, this world would be right.

It had to be.

~ CHAPTER 7 ~

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