[journey] it's a heartless city

The Pokémon seems just as happy as you to finally be able to hug you. They nestle deep against you, happily returning the hug you give them. All this time they have tried to warn you. While they want nothing more than to be there for you, something is still distracting them.

When you follow the Pikachu’s gaze, you see how he is looking over at the lake. It is like they are looking at something, but when you look up at the lake, there is nothing there. From the way their ears drop to the sad noise that leaves their mouth, you can tell the Pokémon is sad for something.

”Why— you— ruin— everything”

The voice sounds once again, even angrier than before, but it is no longer simply in your head. It is all around you, consuming all other sounds around you. Ripples of power are moving through the environment, like a strong wind that wants to push you over. There is no denying the strength that this creature possesses.

Your new companion jumps out of your arms and goes to stand in front of you, clearly defending you. Electricity dances around their cheeks, ready to fight if necessary. Noises leave their mouth, as they are clearly talking to whatever other being is there. Sadly enough, you can not understand a word from what is being said.

“You— won’t— win”

While the Pikachu might be eager to fight, there is no telling if it will be able to win this battle. Will you stand your ground and help the Pikachu throughout this fight against an unknown enemy? Or do you prefer to run for now?

It becomes clear the Pikachu is angry at something. An unknown force. No matter what opponent you are faced with, this pokémon will fight it. But when you call out, telling them to go, they peak their ears and join you at your side. The determination however stays, and the pokémon’s eyes are still focused on the water.

“You— will— return—”

The voice seems to quiet down with each letter until it is no more than a faint whisper, a gentle breeze flowing around you. Around you the world seems to shift, colors seem more bright all of the sudden and you are instantly aware of the amount of sounds around you. Night creatures that are lurking around you, Murkrows that are fighting in the trees. Everything feels more real.

The pikachu is still at your side, a look of confusion but also determination painting his face. It is still looking towards the water, but it is unknown why. After a moment they seem to snap out of it and look at you. Without much of a warning, the pokémon jumps up and climbs all the way to your shoulder. It nuzzles their nose against your cheek. From now on, the two of you are a team. The bond will still have to grow, but maybe in time, you might uncover more secrets.