[journey] Love me mercilessly

Yashu trudges on. Finding that his steps not only feel more assured, but land more confidently as well. As if the path he has chosen is the correct path he should have taken from the start. The cold mud clings uncomfortably to his clothing as he makes his way over.

It isn’t long until he finally arrives at his destination and regards the Croagunk with a satisfied grin. He answers Yashu’s look before pointing towards the stone he has been standing beside. The inscriptions reads: Those who seek power within themselves. Their strength of body, mind and spirit shall be tested here. Prove your worth and overcome the trials before you. For those who prevail, a hidden strength shall be revealed.

Trials. If the past one has been anything to go by, he suspects the rest will only become more challenging. The rustling of Qiulong’s wings catches him out of his reverie. Looking up to see his Charizard land beside them. He releases Dōngméi from his talons, prompting the Bellossom to eagerly run back to her master with a happy sound.

Yashu’s eyes avert back to the Croagunk and he nods. Understanding is evident in his eyes. “I’m ready to continue. Show me the way.” He requests in plain common.

After a brief pause, the Pokémon turns and heads down a path that Yashu hadn't noticed before. This new path is easier to follow, lacking the hidden holes for Yashu to sink into.

He decides to let his Charizard return into his pokéball, but picks up his Bellossom in his arms. She croons, happy to be off the ground and back into his arms. As they both pass through the last layer of undergrowth, they come upon a small house perched above the water. It has a strong foundation made up of poles. He can’t discern if it looks abandoned or not as it seems to blend into the environment with ease.

Nevertheless, it is curious indeed.

A wooden staircase leads up to the front door, and the Croagunk is already ascending the steps. It halts in front of the door, looking back at Yashu expectantly.

Yashu takes a deep breath, feeling the weight of the journey ahead. There is something profoundly mysterious about this entire ordeal. And yet his curiosity is insatiable, Prompting him to follow the Croagunk up the steps, ready to face whatever lies inside the house.

After peering inside, he enters through the opened door.