A/N: As of May 2020, the latter half of this chapter has been significantly altered to fix errors in continuity and characterization.

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"So, you're from Aspertia City?"

N's voice breaks the silence that settled between us as we trek through the woods. He hasn't said anything up until this point, except for the occasional nod in a certain direction, or to warn me about a low hanging branch or a fallen tree trunk.

"Born and raised. How did you—"

"Delcatty told me." He answered promptly before I have a chance to finish. There is a look of thoughtfulness on his face; one I struggle to keep up with because he moves so quickly. "She's quite the conversationalist, you know."

"Really? Well, I'm not surprised," I chuckle. "She's always meowing at me for one reason or another." It still feels strange to me that N could "hear" Pokémon talk. But he has been giving me personal information he wouldn't have known about otherwise. In that respect, I can't really call him a liar.

"Tell me... Why did you go on your journey?"

His question almost stops me in my tracks. I don't know why, it's just... a topic that came out of nowhere. For the first time, N actually pauses his forward plow through the foliage, turning back to face me. A look of seemingly genuine interest lay on his face.

"Please tell me as much or as little as you'd like. I did enough talking about myself back at the cabin. And I'd really like to know more about you."

"Really," I murmur in interest. I didn't say much else though, mainly because I still feel shocked. I bite my lips as I step over a large log to catch up with him. We were traveling side by side again, but his gaze never left my face. Why? I mentally repeated, rolling the question over in my mind. Why did he want to know?

"Well... for a couple of reasons, I guess." A large mud puddle sat in my path. I sidestepped it.  "For one, I've always had a passion for exploring. The cities are exciting enough, but there are times I'd rather enjoy the solitude and harmony of nature. Just seeing how everything in our world coexists... it gives me a great sense of peace and awe. It was something I wanted to experience for myself." I notice a small smile begin to grow on his face as I continue.

"I began to feel holed up at home, you see. The same old buildings, the same old streets, the same old markets, the same old everyday grind of education... It was driving me crazy! I was itching to get out there and discover Unova for myself! To try something new and exciting!" My voice rises in enthusiasm as I remembered those tiresome days, and the pure sense of giddiness I felt when I finally stepped out of Aspertia for good.

"My mom and I didn't really own any Pokémon while I was growing up, but I would see them around all the time, of course. There were lots of battles and contests to watch, and I loved seeing them bond and spend time with their Trainers and families. Pokémon are creatures that are just so... fascinating to me. And precious. I knew when I finally left on my own, I'd want to travel with whomever wanted to have me by their side."

I halfway smiled. "I didn't care about earning badges or pursuing the stereotypical Trainer path at first— Hugh practically dragged me into the Trainer's school for my first Gym battle. But the excitement, the heat of the moment, the stress, the feeling of understanding that Snivy and I shared on the battlefield... I could feel our levels of empathy and communication grow. It was an incredible feeling. Our first significant victory really sealed my commitment to not only travel but to strengthen our friendship through training! There's nothing more I could have ever wanted to do, and I don't regret a single day of it. And neither do my Pokémon. They are my world... I would easily give my life for them if I have to."

The last of my words were left hanging in the air for a bit, interrupted only by the occasional coo of a roosting Pidove. N seems to be processing my lengthy answer as we walk onwards, shifting a thoughtful gaze between myself and our path ahead. I meant every word of what I said, though. My team and I, we have been through so much together, and I love them like they were my own children. I would do anything to keep them safe. Even if that meant going neck to neck with Plasma along the way.

We were close to the clearing that led back onto Route 22 when N finally spoke up again.

"You claim to be a Trainer... but you're different. You don't pit your Pokémon against the masses just because you can, or for the purpose of strength and glory. Your journey has meaning, and you understand your place in the world. That is very commendable. Most people travel to discover themselves, and that is perfectly fine. But you... you do it to enhance and deepen your character. You have a very kind and mature one, too, just as Delcatty told me." I feel a faint flush come onto my cheeks from his praise. I didn't think I was doing anything too special— at least, not any more than the average (pre)teen.

"Thank you," I murmur, embarrassed. "Of course, I'm not perfect. But I'd like to think that what I've experienced with my Pokémon will shape us into better beings. And, who knows? Maybe we could even change the world if we really put our minds to it."

N gives a soft chuckle. "I think it's safe to say you are doing just that by confronting Plasma." Having reached a particularly large pine tree, we soon burst out into the open air. My breath hitches as I recognize the hills of Route 22, my senses on high alert. I realize I'm bracing myself to be jumped by those black-suited thugs and their snarling Pokémon. Thankfully, that didn't happen. The clearing appears as quiet and still as a ghost town.

"They must have arrived at the Giant Chasm by now. Come on." He started walking again but turned back when I hesitate to follow.

N's brows furrowed. "Are you all right? Don't worry, they aren't here anymore."

"...Yeah, I'm fine," I say, shaking my head and bottling my thoughts away. I can't let them scare me like this. I've faced similar threats before with these goons.

When I look into his eyes before we continue onwards, I swear I see a flicker of compassion that gently encourages me to accept my destiny.

*                      *                    *

After throwing up a Max Repel for good measure, we approach the cavern that slipped through my grasp earlier. In the dark, damp passageways of the cave, we follow the winding paths straight to a set of stairs. Soon we were hurrying our way down, rushing through the exit.

The sight we were greeted to is unlike anything I have ever seen. Enough so that I abruptly skid to a halt out of pure shock.

Tales from Lacunosa Town were centered around this legendary place. Crater Forest is known to be a huge barren pit, carved out by its namesake some centuries ago. The only signs of life were the pine trees that border every path, and the occasional patches of dark green grass that houses Pokémon. But in the dead center, the trees were crushed under an enormous black frigate. The foliage isn't just frosted over— it is downright frozen, with ice that sculpts itself into the contours of the landscape. The heavily darkened sky is weighed down by endless clouds, a noticeable chill tainting the air. It feels colder than it probably should have been, even for the middle of autumn.

Plasma. They were already at work. I have to hurry.

The cave opens into a clearing that sits before the arboreal maze. This clearing is a center of chaos, with people and Pokémon alike throwing themselves into a violent fray. To my great relief, I manage to spot Hugh. He made it! To my surprise, Rood is also present. Wearing his distinct golden cap and elegant robes, his snow-white beard looks disheveled, his dark amber eyes emphasizing his battle commands.

Rood is one of the former Seven Sages, an elite group of advisors to Ghetsis and Team Plasma in general. Ashamed of his infamous past, he told me all about Plasma's history in that little manor back in Driftveil. Now that I think about it, along with Anthea and Concordia, he insisted upon N's innocence with a humble reverence. How could I have forgotten him?

Rood told me that Plasma essentially split into two after their downfall at the castle. The grunts that broke away kept their old uniforms and followed N's philosophy— the care and safety of Pokémon was always first. They dedicated themselves to returning the Pokémon they'd stolen to their Trainers, which was admirable, but surely challenging. As for the other half... well, the grunts remained ruthlessly loyal to their ideals of forced liberation and conquest. And I know earlier I said their costumes were stupid, but honestly? That attire is badass. I might even like it more if they weren't the ones currently terrorizing Unova.

Anyways, the former grunts who wanted to pay their penance are by Rood's side, battling against five current grunts. As I mentioned, Hugh is among them as well. He is wearing his usual outfit: the red and white jacket, baggy blue sweatpants, and red sport sneakers with thick black stripes. Predictably, his red and white sports bag is faithfully hanging from his shoulder.

"Hugh! We've got this taken care of now! You need to go and stop Team Plasma!" a former grunt called out as his allies and the opposing Pokémon collide in a fearsome battle. Already, I have a plan formulating in my head as I take in our surroundings.

"Stay quiet and keep down. We don't want to attract any attention. Just stick with me!" I urge N, whose eyes went dreadfully wide at the scene before him. Not far off, Hugh loudly interjects, "But where's Rosa? I promised not to go on without her!!"

"I don't know!" Rood replies, mildly exasperated. "I can only hope that wherever she is, she's safe, sound, and on her way. But you must stop whoever is on the Frigate now before it's too late! This is in your hands now!"

Hugh sighs in frustration and curled his hands into fists but concedes. I watch as he recalls his Pokémon and clips their Poké Balls onto his belt, all the while mumbling to himself.

"Rosa, I swear the one time you're not dependable..."

I hide a smile. Within seconds of turning around to storm away, his eyes find me.

"HOLY...!"

Then he is running. Relief, worry, and astonishment plays plainly on his face, mirroring the emotions I'm sure I wear, too. I'm so excited to see him that I nearly hug him— but Hugh is clearly too riled up to have any of that.

"What the hell happened to you?" he demands, jabbing an accusing finger my direction as he skids to a stop in front of me. "I was ready to come after you, you know. That's how worried I was! You were gonna make me fight all these grunts and save Unova on my own! What kind of friend does that, huh?" Hugh draws back his hand to cross his arms like a child having a tantrum.

"And who's the dude? ...Wait a minute..."

Hugh's voice grows cold as he warily eyes N up and down. I can practically see N sweating bullets. It takes a second before it clicks in my head.

Oh. Oh no.

"YOU!" Hugh snarls. "Rosa, what in Arceus's name are you doing with this fool?" Before I can stop him, he closes the distance and actually shoves N backwards. The look on N's face is a mixture of surprise, hurt, and shame.

"Hugh, stop it!" I yell, putting my body between him and N. My lightning reflexes block his incoming punch.

"Rosa, what the hell—"

"No, Hugh, you listen to me. This man saved my life! My Pokémon's lives! He's the reason why I'm not rotting in a Plasma holding cell right now!" My voice fills with the fire in my eyes as I defend my newfound friend. Hugh's expression is filled with skepticism at my charge.

"But he's the one who—"

"I know! But he's different now— he's not who we thought he was! And frankly, I don't have the time to explain it. Right now, he is here to help us. Don't you trust me?"

A tense pause ensues as our gazes lock. I am challenging him right now: challenging him to look past his impulses and put his faith in me.

"...Fine. But if he makes even one misstep, I can and will send him packing." Hugh doesn't bother to hide the contempt in his voice, though he does slowly lower the fist I've been holding back. An exhale of relief escapes me. When I turn around, N is on his feet, giving me an expression of gratitude.

"I don't doubt that, Hugh," I reply smoothly- or at least as smoothly as I can. "But for now, just fill me in on what's going on here."

Hugh humphs, clearly dissatisfied, but he obliges. "Well, Team Plasma has decided to camp here for whatever reason. I was ready to storm the frigate when I got ambushed by those trash." He spit the word like it was bitter on his tongue. "I almost lost, too. I mean, how fair is five against one? But then Rood and his buddies showed up out of nowhere and helped me out! They healed my team, and just as you just saw, they're keeping 'em busy. So. I'm going to go finish the job! Are you ready?"

"Yes." The word came from N's mouth, not mine. Hugh gave him a glare fit to rival the heavens.

"I asked Rosa." N dips his head slightly in acknowledgment as Hugh swivels his head back towards me. All I can really do is sigh. Was I ready? Not in the slightest. I'm still somewhat shaken from being ambushed myself, to be honest. But I also knew that any more delays would be a death sentence.

"I guess so. Let's go." Hugh doesn't waste a second after my affirmation, storming his way toward the frigate.

"Your friend seems nice," N muttered, holding on to his shoulder.

"I'm sorry he hurt you," I apologize grimly. "He has a good reason to be angry with Plasma, though. Seeing as you were the leader..."

"I understand." N held a thoughtful, yet somber look in his eyes, though it disappeared within a moment. "We better hurry if we want to catch up with him."

"Right." Sure enough, Hugh has already vanished somewhere within the forest. We have to jog to catch up to him. And when we finally do, he doesn't bother to slow down, either.

"Any update on your Purrloin, by any chance?" I breathe, a puff of cold air joining our company. I see the gears turning in N's head as he puts the pieces together, making a small "oh" with his mouth.

"Yeah, actually! Rood told me that these dark clothed dorks called 'The Shadow Triad' have her on the frigate! What kind of a dumb name for a group is that?!"

"Hugh, seriously—"

"I know, I know, who cares, right? They'd just better give Purrloin up, or they will feel my RAGE!"

Despite myself, Hugh's favorite catchphrase made me chuckle. I only wish it would last because the frigate is just ahead.

*                 *                *

The entrance to the frigate yawns onto the lower decks, held open by a metal hatch. After ducking inside, I see nothing but a long hallway, made up of aluminum steel flooring and slick black walls. Thinking quickly, I motion for N and Hugh to cluster next to the entrance in a corner, hopefully out of sight of anyone coming in. There, we start to make a plan.

"Hugh, I think it'd be best if N stuck with you, to comb the ship for Purrloin. I don't want to risk anyone else's well-being while I shut down whoever is behind this operation."

"What? I'm not working with him!" Hugh hisses quite loudly, while N shifts his gaze to the floor.

"Be quiet!" I snap back impatiently. "Do you want the whole damn frigate to know we're here? And yes, you will work with him. You need the extra set of eyes more than I do. I have to stay hidden for as long as possible while I figure things out."

"...Fine! But he better not slow me down. I am this close to Purrloin, and I will completely lose it if he makes me choke just before the finish line!" Hugh crosses his arms and turns his back on N. I'm about this close to smacking him for being so rude. I understand the reasons for his hostility: I really do. But now is the worst time to have our efforts torn apart by bickering.

"I'll do the best I can to assist you, Hugh." N, for what it's worth, maintains his composure, though I do catch the slightest hint of disdain.

"Whatever you say, Christmas Tree head." Hugh gives me a guarded side glance. "That being said, I don't think going by yourself would be a good idea. Especially after you hinted running into some trouble on Route 21."

"It, uh... the incident was an outlier," I mutter unconvincingly, feeling a trickle of nervous sweat fall down the back of my neck. "Hugh, because of our dual objectives, one of us has to wind up going alone. That's just the way it is. So, it may as well be me. Besides, when have I not been able to handle myself?" N looks like he wants to say something, but I give a deliberate cough and continue hurriedly.

"Don't worry about me. My Pokémon and I are all ready to go. When you find Purrloin, leave the ship immediately and contact the International Police. I'll do what I can to pinpoint the leader and take them down." Hugh muttered unintelligibly but nodded nonetheless.

"Fair enough. Purrloin has always been my fight, but Plasma is yours. I guess I should give you that much." He briefly placed his hand on my shoulder, and I smile gratefully.

"Thanks, Hugh."

"Rosa?" N suddenly blurts out. He rocks on his toes, seeming nervous, and my brows wrinkle. "Hold on a second... Before you go..."

Hesitating, his eyes flash between me and the ground before he steps closer and envelopes me in a hug. Surprise colors my cheeks as his arms tighten around my waist, but it's far from unpleasant. He feels warm, and his arms are strong. It feels nice.

After a moment, I return the gesture gratefully, ignoring Hugh as he raises an eyebrow over N's shoulder. Brat.

"Be safe," N murmurs, fixing his eyes on me. I stare back, again surprised by his concern and affection. But then again, he's the one who saved me in the first place, right?

"I will." I hold on to him for another moment, our arms tight around each other.

*          *        *

What was N thinking, giving a girl he knew for only a scarce few hours a hug? He was mesmerized by Rosa as she took charge and laid out their game plan. Her ambition, her decisiveness... it all mirrored her. If N didn't know any better, he would say he's looking at the same woman.

But, beyond their fascinating similarities... N was still worried about Rosa. Hadn't Plasma put her in danger just a short while ago? That fact alone causes him to feel concerned over her wellbeing.

He already let his one and only human friend slip through his fingers. He would be damned to make that same mistake again.

After everything that happened two years ago, Hilda had been on his mind almost constantly. Her compassion, her spirit, her courage, her boldness, her will to do right: it was unlike anything he had ever seen before. It awed him to see such beauty existed in the species he'd previously loathed. It served as his own hope for humanity. And, because of that, he wanted to be with the girl who held these precious gifts.

That deeper feeling... Was it that foreign concept of "romantic love"? He knew the love of a parent and child, certainly. His love for Pokémon proved that. But, love between two adults...? Not so much. It was such a foreign and unknown concept to him that, thanks to Ghetsis' rules, he could avoid such questions entirely. But he no longer had that luxury after Hilda. At last, he needed to face that he, too, could love another human.

Like he told Rosa, he had tried to find her but ultimately failed in his efforts. And N couldn't handle the shattering disappointment, the never-ending longing, the pain that came with those broken dreams. He couldn't let his haunting obsession with her destroy him every month, every day he went without her. It was just too much heartache to bare.

No, he soon realized... Better to accept that she was gone to dull the fires of his grief. Though, if he ever happened to find Hilda again, he would be more than happy to explore these affections with her. But, that was an unlikely event. He saw no other choice but to let go, lest the pain would kill him.

That didn't mean he would ever forget Hilda, nor what she did for him. He would always hold her in a special place in his heart. And, he reasoned, maybe one day he could find someone else like her someday to fill that void. There was also that quiet, nagging doubt that it wouldn't be quite the same, but he'd always pushed that voice to the back of his mind.

So, after almost two years of emotional conflict, he went back to Unova to start over. And now, despite Plasma's brewing disaster, a blessing has come out of it: Rosa. She was so much like Hilda, holding the very attributes that made N's heart flutter. But, unlike Hilda, Rosa was here with him, now. N just couldn't let someone like that go again— not if he could help it. Despite the fact they had not met until today, Rosa held a pull on his very being. He wanted to get to know her more, to talk with her Pokémon more, to enjoy her laugh or contemplate her deepest revelations more. Most of all, he simply couldn't have his heart broken again.

But if, Arceus forbid, Rosa didn't come out of this for some reason, he wanted the comfort of this kindhearted person tucked into his heart. It was a risk to widen that gaping hole, but the choice had already been made for him. So, with all of this in mind, he hugged Rosa and savored her radiating warmth.

*         *         *

"I promise, I'll be seeing you very soon. And I'll be fine," I whisper softly to him. "Besides, it wouldn't be much fun if you were to be my knight in shining armor again, huh? I'd like to be my own savior too sometimes, you know." He chuckles, giving me a light-hearted smile as we finally separate. With a final nod, we part ways, but not before Hugh slips me one last snide remark.

"Hmph. I didn't realize you were such fast friends."

"Oh, cool it, Hugh. He's just a little emotional, is all. Good luck getting Purrloin back. I really hope it goes well."

"It will, Rosa. I'll make sure of it. You should also do whatever it takes, okay?"

"Naturally." Then, with N giving me a lingering glance, they turn around the corner and vanish.

It is then, when I'm finally alone again, that all I can think about is the possibility of losing two friends instead of just one.

...And suddenly, I became deathly afraid.