"Oh, I see. Yes, you might want to cease," Vigoroth added.

  Striker folded his arms, and Guardian mimicked his stance. Saniya contained her laughter for a moment before bursting into giggles, breaking the tension. Striker relaxed his arms and shook his head with a smile, while Guardian's eye twitched with a trace of happiness.

  "I apologize, Vigoroth," Guardian said, still chuckling. "Certain inside jokes can appear nonsensical to spectators."

  "Yeah..." Vigoroth responded, his tone suddenly quiet and nostalgic. He averted his gaze, then straightened his posture and shook his head. He resumed jogging in place. "Alright! So, which one!? Or both! I'm up for the challenge."

  "Ready for a showdown, buddy?" Saniya said, zooming up to nudge his pink, button-like nose with her face.

  "I'm game!"

  "Very well, then!"

  She exerted her Psychic abilities to guide Guardian forward, and with clenched fists, she declared, "Let's vanquish him."

  "Not vanquish," Guardian interjected.

  "Crush."

  "No."

  "Annihilate!"

  "You're getting colder."

  "Drown?"

  "Celebi."

  "Fine." She rolled her eyes and figuratively stowed her fists away, saying, "Let's engage in combat training."

  Vigoroth maintained his unending grin as he enthusiastically joined the fray alongside the two new members of Team Sunrise, while Striker opted for a more leisurely sparring session with Marowak.

  Over the next hour, Saniya, Guardian, Striker, and even Marowak battled Vigoroth. Saniya and Guardian employed less aggressive tactics than Striker. Saniya often remained on the fringes of the skirmish, taking potshots at Vigoroth while he was preoccupied with Guardian. Guardian, on the other hand, allowed Vigoroth to land numerous powerful blows but reciprocated sparingly.

  Gradually, but surely, they wore down the energetic Pokémon.

  "Thank you for today," Marowak expressed later, once the training session had concluded. Vigoroth was curled up, peacefully dozing. His fur was disheveled, and he bore several scratches and bruises, yet a contented smile adorned his slumbering face. "He rarely gets a good night's rest ever since Team Celestial commenced their graduation test."

  "With that level of energy?" Saniya remarked, wiping her brow. "Wow, I can certainly understand why."

  "Yes, that boundless energy..."

  Marowak gave a nod in agreement. "I can hardly keep pace with him, especially not on a daily basis. He often expends his excess energy by darting around town, offering promotions to local shopkeepers. However, that seldom suffices. It was once a common sight to see him stumbling about, appearing inebriated, but it's merely a result of his extreme exhaustion. An exhaustion he doesn't truly register."

  "I don't envy him," remarked Striker. He seemed the most fatigued among the group, lying on his back and gasping for air. "I feel like I could sleep for a week."

  Marowak nodded once more. "Imagine your body feeling as it does now, but still incapable of getting a wink of rest. That, I believe, is the daily struggle of Vigoroth."

  Guardian inquired, "Why doesn't he evolve?"

  Marowak hesitated briefly, casting a wary glance at Guardian before responding. "He's mentioned that he refuses to become that large or that lethargic. Nonetheless, I do wish he could find some relaxation. Something I fear is unattainable for him at this point."

  Marowak fell silent for a moment, but the others sensed that he had more to share. "You might be wondering why he doesn't channel this energy into an exploration, rescue, or delivery team."

  "Yeah," Saniya affirmed with a nod. "Sort of."

  Marowak explained further, "He used to be part of one. Team Razor Wind, you might have heard of them."

  "Oh, those folks," Sean grimaced. "That explains why he's so chummy with them."

  Marowak nodded. "Vigoroth was one of their original members. However," he sighed and directed his gaze toward the peacefully slumbering Pokémon, "he was always exuberant even as a Slakoth. After evolving, he became unmanageable, falling ill, unable to rest, and causing discord within the team. Eventually, they approached me, asking if I could discipline the excess energy out of him."

  Everyone's eyes turned to Vigoroth, who was smiling in the midst of a dream. One of his legs twitched a few times.

  "They didn't want him back, and he's been in town ever since," Marowak concluded his narrative. "He struck up a friendship with some newcomers who arrived in town some time ago, a Grovyle and his sister, Braixen." He nodded towards Striker. "I thought perhaps sparring with them might lift his spirits."

  "Team Celestial, right?" Sean inquired. "I heard they embarked on a graduation test a while back on the Sand Continent. Why didn't he join them?"

  "He wasn't actually a member of the team," Marowak clarified.

  "I proposed the idea of his joining them personally. It... it took him a considerable amount of time to truly acknowledge that Team Razor Wind had sincerely abandoned him, and my role in managing him became a driving force during my own sabbatical. I believe he's concerned that they might grow tired of him as well."

  "That's really unfortunate," Saniya remarked, straightforwardly.

  Marowak chuckled in response. "Indeed. It's quite unfortunate." He shook his head and gazed at Vigoroth for a moment before using his bone to rise to his feet. "Well, I'd like to express my gratitude to all of you, Team Sunrise. He's finally sleeping peacefully, for once. I hope he gets a good week's rest. I might have to seek your assistance again in the future. Thank you."

  Guardian assisted Striker to his feet, and Saniya gave Marowak a friendly wave. She found herself genuinely fond of him: stern, somewhat unyielding, but ultimately fair to them.

  It hadn't taken the entire day, though the training experience felt like it had lasted an eternity, leaving the three of them exhausted but also liberated.

  "I hope we'll cross paths with Team Go-Getters," Saniya chatted as they made their way to Azumarill's residence. Bidoof had shown them numerous homes while guiding them to the Revival Herbs, so they knew where to go.

  Guardian rapped softly on the door, and a hushed anticipation filled the room. Striker began to nod off, leaning against Guardian, while Saniya gracefully descended to perch on his shoulders. Guardian remained perfectly still, immersed in the moment, until a sudden skittering noise at the door startled him.

  Guardian's abrupt reaction triggered a shriek from Saniya, who fluttered into the foliage, and prompted Striker to somersault into a combat-ready stance.

  "It's just the door," Guardian reassured them, patting Striker's shoulder as it swung open.

  "Oh!" Azurill exclaimed. "Mr. Dusknoir and Mr. Grovyle! I'll fetch mother."

  "I'm here too!" Saniya chimed in, still concealed among the branches. Azurill closed the door and disappeared from earshot. Saniya gracefully descended and waited patiently for Azurill to return and usher them inside.

  "Let's set a new objective," the Team Sunrise members overheard Azumarill suggesting as they listened in. Another door farther inside opened, and Sean emerged, surprisingly looking as fatigued as they were. He brightened upon seeing them, rushing over and embracing Striker, much to Striker's surprise.

  "Are you alright?" Sean inquired, his concern evident.

  "Yeah," Sean replied, stepping back. "It's just great to see you."

  Not one to be left out, Saniya joined the embrace, asking, "Did she make you cry?"

  Sean chuckled. "I can tolerate one more visitor today," Azumarill announced, examining the group. Three pairs of eyes turned towards the lone Pokémon lurking in the corner.

  "Why are you all gazing at me?" Guardian asked, feigning offense. Azurill, who was merrily swinging from one of Guardian's arms, burst into giggles. The collective stare-down continued until he finally relented.

  "Certainly." He gently lowered Azurill to the ground to prevent any accidental harm and cast a shy glance in Azumarill's direction. "If it's convenient, we could return at a later time."

  "I have no objections at all," Azumarill responded and motioned for him to approach. Guardian floated cautiously over; his size was a bit overwhelming for the compact house. He nearly knocked over a few items, offering apologies each time.

  "Would the three of you be willing to keep Azurill entertained while I'm occupied?" Azumarill inquired. Azurill bestowed the child's boundless hope upon the three of them, leaving no room for refusal, even if they had considered it.

  "Of course," Striker chimed in, the ever-present diplomat.

  "Come with me, young one," Saniya stated as the door closed. "I'll teach you the art of ignition."

  Rai rarely let anything get to him. He was accustomed to maintaining a smile, turning the other cheek, and addressing issues instead of letting them fester. Following yet another restless night's sleep that left the two felines even more fatigued than when they went to bed, Rai and Mane returned to town. They hadn't visited Duskull after receiving their reward, as most of the day had passed, and they needed to coordinate Alakazam's arrival.

  Their nightmares were intensifying and occurring more frequently. Neither of them discussed it, reluctant to burden the other with their haunting dreams.

  If they had decided to share their burdens, Rai and Mane would have been surprised to discover that they were sharing the same recurring nightmare: Scout trapped in an endless void, with no ability to do anything but observe.

  They watched, struggling to form words but feeling too disconnected from reality for their voices to carry. It had been a dreadful nightmare, and enduring countless nights of restlessness, with their minds turning against them, had taken a toll.

  Rai and Mane made their way towards Duskull's Bank, even the loss of a single night weighed heavily on them.

  "Duskull!" Mane exclaimed as Rai's mouth was otherwise occupied. "We've got it!"

  "Oh-hoo-hoo-hoo?" Duskull giggled.

  "Yes," Rai replied, spitting out fur and fabric. He presented the scrap of Reaper Cloth to Duskull, who examined it closely.

  "Hoo… hohohohohoho!"

  "Is this… acceptable?" Rai inquired of Duskull, who couldn't contain his laughter.

  "Hohohohohoho-yes. Yes, this is truly remarkable." Duskull vanished from sight, retreating into his chambers. He emerged with two items. "A perfect addition to my attire."

  Mane's eye twitched, and Rai was left in shock as Duskull revealed an expansive, quilt-like creation made from woven Reaper Cloth. It resembled some sort of unconventional fashion cape.

  "What... is THAT?" Rai asked, struggling to conceal his bewilderment at the peculiar fashion statement before his eyes. "And why do you require it...? Why... I... ugh...

  "He smacked his head once more. "Could we kindly request the Psychic Torc?"

  "Absolutely, absolutely," Duskull giggled, slipping an intricately carved, solid necklace-like item over. Mane swiftly grasped it. "Let Alakazam know he has my gratitude."

  With that enigmatic declaration, they made their way back to the guild. Diglett ushered them in, and they descended the stairs, almost in a trance.

  "Dear friends, you've returned!" Wigglytuff radiated joy when they entered his quarters. "Was Duskull cooperative?"

  "We... got it," Rai confirmed, nodding while Mane displayed the item. "Is Alakazam around?"

  "Yes, indeed, he is!" Wigglytuff pranced away to fetch him. Rai and Mane returned to the assembly square to sit together, sharing their discomfort.

  Loudred called something in their direction, but they paid it no mind.

  The guards permitted a few Pokémon to enter, and Croagunk made a brief appearance. Whether it was five minutes or fifty, the duo had lost track of time when Wigglytuff reappeared with a companion.

  "So," Alakazam remarked, stroking his mustache as he peered down at the two fatigued Pokémon, "I hear you need to reach Shaymin Village?"

  "Yes!" Rai exclaimed, springing to his feet. "We possess the Psychic Torc." He took it from Mane, who was still seated, and extended it towards Alakazam. It levitated out of his hand, and Alakazam examined it for a moment.

  "Yes... this will be a valuable addition to my collection."

  Mane's ears perked up. "Collection?" he inquired, rising to his feet. "You mean... rare items?"

  Rai's concern grew as he shifted his gaze between them.

  "Oh dear, my Psychic Torcs collection! Duskull always manages to locate them, but he never simply trades them back to me. I have quite a few, you see, and they are rather exquisite items. Frivolous, I admit, but we all harbor our indulgences."

  Rai leaned into Mane, almost toppling him over. The Litleo emitted visible smoke and a gulp of fire, nodding in response as he couldn't trust his own words.

  "When can you accommodate us?" Rai inquired, his voice strained, taking a few deep breaths and showing patience. "We are on a somewhat time-sensitive quest."

  "In a short while, just give me an hour or so to make preparations. Wigglytuff, could you escort them to me once you receive the signal?"

  "No problem!" Wigglytuff replied cheerfully.

  Alakazam nodded his gratitude and departed.

  "It may be a while before we reunite," Wigglytuff advised, turning to Team Ion. "So, let me give you a GIGANTIC hug for good luck!"

  He practically squeezed the life out of Mane with his embrace, but the two teammates accepted it.

  "And before you depart, you might want to bid farewell to everyone. You may encounter someone... oh, I wouldn't want to spoil it!" He giggled and danced away into his chambers.

  Rubbing his sore throat, Mane cleared his voice. "Well, I appreciate it."

  "Don't even mention it," Rai let out a tired sigh. "Just think about it, we're nearly there."

  Following Wigglytuff's counsel, they exchanged a few words with Loudred and Diglett, and then extended their conversation to Croagunk.

  "Wait a sec," Mane interrupted before giving himself a light smack with his tail. "Croagunk is the go-to guy for rare items, isn't he? Did you have any info on where we could find the things we needed?"

  Croagunk shrugged. "I came across Duskull at the same time you did, and he happened to be the one with the Reaper Cloth. You worked that out without me."

  "Oh... my bad," Rai said.

  "Heh-heh-heh. No worries. Just remember to ask me first next time."

  After their discussion, they made their way up to the middle level, where a surprise was waiting for them.

  "Marill?" Rai inquired, tilting his head.

  Marill turned, a smile lighting up his face when he saw them. "Shinx! Litleo! Hi!" He rushed over, accompanied by three friends.

  "Hey, slow down," Flaaffy grumbled. He exhaled sharply and blew some curly wool out of his eyes before inspecting the returning duo. "You two look like a mess," he remarked bluntly.

  "Good to see you too, Flaaffy," Mane retorted dryly. "I'm surprised you even left your room looking the way you do today."

  Flaaffy released another puff of wool from his face, stating, "We'll take whatever we can get. When it comes to choosing between being well-rested or appearing at our best, the decision seems rather clear."

  "Not struggling too much, are you?" Mane retorted with a touch of sarcasm, and Rai placed a paw on his shoulder to calm him.

  Rai inquired with a grin directed at Marill, "Did you join the guild?"

  "Absolutely!" Marill affirmed, tapping his Treasure Bag to show off the explorer's badge. "Armaldo welcomed me, and Guildmaster Wigglytuff efficiently set everything up for me. I'm officially an apprentice!"

  The other member of their small group, Paras, hesitated and whispered, "He's... he's working with us."

  "Yes, that's right," Flaaffy chimed in, brushing wool away from his eyes. "It seems we've formed a capable quartet."

  "Quartet?" questioned someone.

  "Marill is receiving guidance from Bidoof," Marill clarified. "We just returned from a mission, and Bidoof went to inform Munna about the recovery of her item."

  Flaaffy then inquired, "So, what are your plans, you two?" Marill had the floor, and the attention should rightfully return to him. "You certainly don't intend to venture out again in your current state, do you? You're aware of the guild's reputation; we must maintain our appearance."

  "We're heading to Shaymin Village," Mane retorted sharply. "Our appearance is none of your concern. And as for our sleep, well, let's just say we had a late night."

  Mane chose to ignore the follow-up question.

  "

  "So, it's about rescuing our friend," Rai replied.

  "Well, yeah, I mean..." Flaaffy's behavior had also irritated him, but Rai remained the voice of reason as he prevented Mane from initiating a brawl. "Thanks for your concern, Flaaffy. We'll tidy up before we head out."

  "Absolutely," Mane chimed in with a mischievous grin.

  "I hope you're enjoying yourself," Rai said, turning back to Marill.

  Marill nodded. "It's fantastic. Not having Azurill around every night will feel strange, but I'm also excited!"

  They continued their conversation, discussing Marill's expectations for training. Eventually, Bidoof returned with Munna, and the trio expanded into a quartet, but it was time to part ways.

  "We'll catch up with you when we're back," Rai said as they stepped away. "I can't wait to hear what you've been up to!"

  "Yeah, yeah, let's get going," Mane said, playfully tugging Rai's tail to prompt them to 'tidy up' before departing.

  Wigglytuff approached and picked them up in the midst of grooming, then bounced off toward where Alakazam was waiting.

  "Are you ready?" Alakazam inquired, giving them a brief once-over.

  "Yes," Rai affirmed, nodding. Mane nodded in agreement and patted the Treasure Bag slung over his shoulder.

  "Very well. Hold on and brace yourselves."

  They grasped the hands extended by Alakazam, each placing a single paw against him. A moment passed, and then a sudden shift. Wigglytuff uttered, "Best of luck," before their surroundings transformed.

  Teleportation always left passengers disoriented, and upon reappearing, both felines staggered.

 

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