The wedding and reception had been spectacular, and now a Gala to celebrate the end of the World Summit was being held today and Seth was invited, along with anyone he wanted. Christine had flat out refused, the idea of being surrounded by so many unknown faces was not a desirable situation.
Titania also refused, as she had a lot of work to do with Suri.
Now Umbra on the other hand, something she had heard yesterday had gotten her curious, and the Gala was the perfect place to find out.
Rika and Fritter had changed into the first outfits they had bought with Lucy, while Seth had gotten a dose of Heal Pulse from Diantha and Gardy, his injuries now non-existent.
“Okay ladies, are we ready to go?” he asked. There was chorus of cheers and one half-hearted yay from Umbra. Even she had decided to dress up, opting for a black lace that still allowed the glow of her rings to be seen underneath.
“Soon, I’ll find him... and then...? Hehhehheh~”
*~*
Seth had thought that the wedding had a lot of attendants... the Gala blew that number out of the water. Along with everyone that had been at the wedding, the Gala was also host to the entirety of the World Summit, along with quite a few nobles and a lot more guards.
“Hooey! This here is a real fancy party!” Fritter whistled. “Ah reckon that there’s more ponies here than there was at Princess Cadenza’s wedding!”
“That sure is a lot of people,” Rika agreed. “Sethy, hold my paw? I don’t wanna get lost!”
Seth chuckled as she looped a ribbon around his foreleg. “Okay Rika, and I’ll make sure that I get a dance with you tonight as well.” That brought a small cheer from the Sylveon. Seth turned to talk to Umbra, but the enigmatic Umbreon was already gone.
“I swear she’s part Ghost type,” Seth said. So instead he, along with his two beloveds and Diantha, headed inside together wondering just what the night would bring...
*~*
Once inside, Diantha spotted Cynthia and headed straight over to her friend, eager to catch up and discuss recent events. Selena and Ignis said they’d be arriving later, so it once again left Seth alone with Rika and Fritter... though he didn’t mind that one bit.
Grissom was the first the greet them, and was enthusiastic about something, but refused to tell the Luxray what it was, saying that it would spoil the surprise. He led Seth over to Celestia and Arceus, who had just finished a discussion about something.
“Ah, I’m glad you could make it tonight Seth,” Celestia greeted him. She noticed Rika and Fritter and gave them a warm smile. “Might you introduce these lovely ladies here?”
Seth nodded and beamed brightly. “Princess Celestia, might I introduce Apple Fritter and Rika, my lovely girlfriends...” Rika waved back and giggled while Fritter just stood there blushing. She couldn’t believe it, here she was, with Princess Celestia! And Seth was talking like they were old friends.
“Girlfriends?” Celestia repeated the word, making sure she’d heard that right. “As in, both of them?”
Seth nodded, “We’re what you ponies would call a herd. It’s a bit of a long story, but this is the end result and I couldn’t be happier.”
Celestia blinked for a moment and Fritter wondered if the Princess would be angry... until she gave the trio a wide smile.
“Goodness me, it has been a while since that old tradition was used. I am glad for the three of you though. However, Mr. Crescent?”
“Yes?” Seth asked.
“You’d better take good care of these girls,” The Solar Princess smiled. “That’s an order.”
“”Of course, I’ll do everything in my power to keep them happy. They deserve that much at the very least.”
Celestia nodded, “And you as well, take care Seth. I’ll see you bright and early tomorrow, so don’t party too hard.”
Seth laughed and nodded, “Yes Princess.” Once the Alicorn left, Arceus let out a small chuckle of his own.
“She’s been rather worried about the outcome of this Summit, and though it was successful, there are still some issues that need addressing...”
“I can imagine,” Seth replied. “Oh, and something else... Do you remember that translation spell you cast on Fritter way back when?”
“I do,” Arceus replied. “Was there a problem?”
“Not so much a problem... but more like it never wore off,” Seth answered. surprising Arceus. “She still has the ability to talk to Pokémon.”
“Well, I certainly didn’t expect that to happen... I can fix it if you like?”
“NO!” Apple Fritter suddenly blurted out. “Ah, sorry.. ah mean, ah like being able to talk to Seth and the others. So please, ah’d like to keep it... iffin y’all don’t mind?”
“It is fine by me,” Arceus smiled. “Oh, there is something I’ve been meaning to do and since I have you here, you might as well be the first...” The Alpha Pokémon reached into his pocket dimension for a moment, fishing around for a certain object. “Hm, no, not that... That’s not it either... ah, there you are.” There was a small flash of light and Seth suddenly found a familiar object on the floor in front of him.
“Sethy, is that?” Rika whispered.
“My bag...” Seth finished as he wasted no time in opening it and looking at the contents inside. Everything was in there, from his Potions and held items, to the TM’s and Berries had accumulated. And he soon found what he was searching for the most. he pulled out a shining gem, along was two others of similar design.
“Your Keystone and Mega Stones,” Rika said. “Oh my gosh Sethy! That’s awesome!”
“I know, Ignis and Selena are gonna be... oh? Ah... Arceus?”
“Yes?”
Seth fished out another set of items, a collection of nut-like things. “You ah, may want to get rid of these...”
“What are-” Arceus didn’t even finish his sentence before eyes flashed and the Apricorns imploded, promptly being erased from existence.
“Thank you for informing me,” Arceus said with a hard tone. He proceeded to erase every other one from his dimension and made a note to talk with Shaymin later...
Seth looked back at the Mega stones and a wide smile crossed his face. Ignis and Selena were gonna flip!
*~*
Umbra stalked the main lobby, the countless ponies, griffins and other creatures meant little to her. She’d picked up on his scent the moment she’d entered the building, he was here somewhere and she’d find him. Ponies steered clear of the imposing Dark-type, while some Pokémon actually tried to hit on her... they failed spectacularly.
And it didn’t take long at all. The object of her search was not an inconspicuous one.
She cleared her throat as she took a deep breath.
“SEV!” she yelled out at the loud Seviper nearby. “I found you~”
Sev tensed up at that. “Found me? Well, whoever you are...strangely familiar sounding person, your findings mean nothing…..” He turned around and the rest of his words died in his throat.
Umbra’s eyes glowed a murderous red as stalked closer to him, pushing her way past an orange-maned Pegasus and straight up to Sev.
“You have been a very hard Pokémon to track down dear Sevvy~” her voice was ice-cold. “Care to tell me what you’ve been up to all these years?”
“....Umbra?” Sev was at a loss for words. “You’re here?...And you’ve been looking for me?”
“Not long after we... after I left,” Umbra’s rage vanished in an instant. “My Trainer abandoned me in a distant region... and I couldn’t remember how to get back to you. I heard stories, ones that sounded crazy and downright terrifying... that you had an army that slaughtered humans for their crimes against Pokémon kind... so, I guess I was a little scared of finding you again... and days turned to weeks, months... years...”
“You were...scared of me?” Sev gulped as he looked away in shame. “...It’s true. The army part that is. I am Commander of the PLA, the glorious Pokémon Liberation Army….The being that did those horrors was none other than my father, but you needn’t worry about him...ever again.” Sev hissed in anger.
“I had a feeling, that that might have been the case,” Umbra sat down, her legs suddenly not wanting to work. “There was no way, that the silly snake I fell in love with was a murderer. But... there was... another reason I couldn’t risk it... why that life seemed terrifying.”
“Whatever it is,” Sev smiled, happier than he had ever felt in a long time. “We can deal with it...together. Ah, it’s been so long since I truly felt that. Come on, you can tell me, Umbra. I have an army! I can take on the world if I wanted to.”
“Don’t!” the nearby King Trotankhamun yelled. Sev childishly stuck his tongue out at him.
“You haven’t changed,” Umbra chuckled as she spied Lightning from the corner of her eye. “And tell me dear Sevvy, just who is that delightfully adorable Pegasus glaring at me?”
“Lightning Dust,” the Pegasus stated, snorting in agitation. “I’m his….companion of sorts...Nothing major, he’s an idiot. He’s lucky I stick around.” She blushed a little through her glare.
Umbra chuckled, oh, this mare had it bad. “Well then my dear Lightning, I am most pleased to meet you. My name is Umbra, Sev’s former lover~”
“I got that,” Lightning rolled her eyes and muttered in agitation.
“Former isn’t the right word,” Sev put out. “More like ‘put on hold’. Yes, that’s a much better term...Has anyone said it before?...Well, if they had, SCREW THEM! I’m patenting that phrase.”
“Hm, we shall see Sevvy.” Umbra shrugged. “Much has changed in these last few years, much indeed. Oh, and don’t get your coils in a knot, I haven’t taken another since you.” Umbra walked over to Lightning and stared into her eyes for a moment, sending shivers down the mare’s spine.
“Hm well, You are cute... so I guess you’ll do.” She looked around and then back to Sev, “And where is darling little Lia? I haven’t seen her cute face in so long?”
Suddenly, something clattered to the ground. It was Lia’s plate and she stared wide-eyed at Umbra. “...Miss Umbra? Is that really you?”
“Lia!” Umbra completely forgot her current train of thought and glomped the Kirlia. “Oh look at you, you’re all grown up! Such a big girl now!”
Lia giggled as she hugged her back. “Yeah, I did get big, but I’m not as big and pretty as Miss Belle…” She looked between her and her big brother. “Did you come back for my big brother? Are you getting married? Can I be the best mon? Can I? Can I? Can I?” She squealed in excitement. “I got a dress that’s really pretty for it.”
“Just as excitable as always,” Umbra giggled. “Hmm, well... we’ll see. I still have a lot to talk about with him.”
Then Umbra remembered what it was that she needed to tell Sev. “Oh, I almost forgot. Oh Sevvy~” Her sing song tone could send shivers down even Gard’s back.
Sev was busy splashing himself with punch. “This is a dream... A very nice dream, but a dream!” He told himself. “I’m hallucinating...She wouldn’t come back for a wretch like me.” He splashed another cup into his face. “PUNCH! YOU ARE FULL OF FAIL!”
“Sevvy, calm down, you’re acting like a hatchling,” Umbra scolded him. “And I haven’t come back for you, not yet anyhow. I have someone a little more important in my life right now.”
Sev slowly turned back to her, a hurt expression on his face. “Oh yes...Of course you do...Who is it?”
Umbra smiled and waved her tail. “Come with me... I want to introduce you. You too Lia honey.” And with that she headed into the crowd.
Sev quickly trailed after her, intent on never letting her out of his sight again….or for however long she’d allow him anyways. Lia skipped on after, humming in excitement over what could be a new friend and her big brother’s girlfriend. She giggled as she thought of little ways to ‘help’ them.
*~*
Seth was still rummaging through his bag. He’d already found Rika’s Wise Glasses and Selena’s Scope Lens. And his Pokedex and XTransceiver... oh, he’d missed those little pieces of technology. Rika just hummed as she stood nearby. He’d probably be at this for a while.
Apple Fritter just looked at the assortment of foreign objects, wondering just what all of them did. A shout from the crowd got their attention as she turned to see Miss Umbra walking towards them, and a very big snake right behind her.
“Ah, Seth... w-what the hay is that?”
The Luxray looked up from his spot on the floor. “A Seviper... why is Umbra bringing a Seviper over to us?”
Umbra smiled as she walked closer. “Hello, I’d like to introduce you to someone. This here is Sev, a rather crazy yet adorable acquaintance of mine. Sevvy, say hello.”
“I am not Sevvy,” Sev pouted, before pulling off an epic pose. “I am the great and powerful Commander Sev, leader of the infamous. PLA. You may all bask in my grandiose presence.”
“I have the strangest urge to Thunder him,” Seth groaned. Apple Fritter still gave a polite bow anyway. Seth nodded and introduced himself. “Well, my name is Seth Crescent and former human. This is Apple Fritter, my marefriend and Rika, one of my Pokémon and my other girlfriend.”
“Nice to meet you!” Rika waved.
“Nice to meet you as well,” Sev half heartedly waved back and turned his attention to Seth. “A former human, hmm? I trust you have been good in your stay here. I’d hate to have to end you on our first meeting.” He sent him a small glare.
Rika’s eyes flashed, but Umbra beat her to it. She leaned in close to Sev, her eyes flashing a powerful Mean Look. “Sev. Be nice! Understand?”
Sev hissed in anger and agitation, looking away. “Yes, Umbra...I understand.” He cast his gaze over the three. “May I ask who these individuals are to you? I was in the middle of discussing a brilliant strategy to flush out the Hyena Dogs with molten cheese.” He flashed Seth a mean Glare, before casting his gaze away.
“Ah, well I was getting to that.” Umbra smiled and rubbed his scales with a paw. “While I have only recently met Apple Fritter here, I have known Seth for quite some time. In fact, I entrusted him with something most precious to me.”
“Oh he must be something special,” Sev hissed, twitching in anger. “To receive such an honor.” He cast his gaze over Seth. “Tell me, what did he do to earn that right...MY RIGHT!” He huffed, trying to keep his fangs in order.
“Ever since I was abandoned, I had a deep distrust of humans... but Seth here proved to be pure of heart, willing to put himself at great risk to keep even a complete stranger safe... So I knew...” She cast her gaze to Rika and smiled gently. “So I entrusted him with my... with our precious daughter...” She looked back at the snake, “Sev... meet Rika, you daughter. Rika... this is your Papa.”
Sev’s rage left him instantly. His jaw opened and closed a few times before he caught his voice again. “My...daughter?” He squeaked out. “...I had a daughter all this time and...I did nothing….” He leaned in closer to Rika. “She’s...so beautiful.” His eyes started to water. “She can’t be mine. She’s too perfect.” His crying started to get worse.
Rika’s reaction though... was a little different.
“ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?” She glared at the sobbing Seviper with surprise, shock and anger. “You never told me he was a Seviper, and one that has a screw loose at that. He just threatened to kill my beloved for crying out loud!”
Sev looked at Umbra. “Yes...This is probably a joke….I...am screw loose. She must have found someone more deserving to have you then me….” He tried to contain his sobs and looked away.
“Oh for the love of... Sev, she’s yours, I can guarantee that. And Rika, I’m ashamed of you. I raised you better than that and I know Seth sure as hell did!”
Seth nodded, but stopped when Umbra glared at him too.
“Look, I know it’s difficult to believe and I should have told the both of you a lot sooner, the fault is mine and mine alone.”
“Momma...” Rika said, her anger dissipating.
“But we all have a new chance here and I want to make a fresh start. We will probably never be one of these storybook families... But, I want my daughter to have what I could not have...”
Rika sighed and looked back to Sev. “Well, I’m not gonna say that Momma’s a liar, but I don’t know if I can call you Papa right away either Mr. Sev... but,” Rika swallowed the lump in her throat and continued. “I can at least give you that chance.”
“I don’t deserve it,” Sev sniffed, trying to collect himself. “All these years...I had a daughter...All these years, I did nothing to find you. It is my fault and my fault alone that’s true. I’ve just been gallivanting around on my crusade that….” Sev huffed. “I am a fool. I don’t deserve to be a father. I’d probably be terrible at it anyways-”
He was cut off as Umbra stuck his face with an Iron Tail. “Enough of this pathetic pity party! Sev, you didn’t know because I never told you. You are not a Psychic type. And Rika, I appreciate that you’ll give us a chance.”
Seth and Fritter just sat back, having obtained popcorn at some point and watched the drama unfold.
Umbra sighed as she licked the spot she hit. “Sorry, didn’t mean to hit you so hard. Joy will probably chew me out for that. But regardless, she is your beautiful daughter, only a being ordained by Arceus himself could have one as such, is that not right, Great Commander Sev?”
Sev chuckled. “Yes…” He snorted. “And you're not sorry.” He smirked, leaning in to nuzzle her. “I needed that anyway. I was acting out of character. I am not a tear shedder. I am a commander!”
Rika giggled a little, at the very least, Sev was pretty funny. “And to think, you also got a daughter and a son-in-law with the deal as well~”
“We aren’t married,” Seth answered.
“Yet~” Rika cooed back.
Sev happily nodded. “Yes….” His eyes turned to pinpricks. “Son in law?”
Umbra frowned, “Did.. did you not hear the part where I said that Rika, Fritter and Seth were in a relationship?” Oh dear…
“Truthfully I tuned you out at that point,” Sev said. “Other random people don’t interest me, so I decided to think of better things, such as you in lingerie…” He glared at Seth. “But that’s not important right now.”
Umbra spluttered, for once, she was actually speechless.
“Wow, you’re good,” Rika said. “I don’t think anyone has ever gotten a word in edgewise with Momma...”
“Because Sev seems to be beyond normal sensibilities.” Seth replied. That said, the image of Rika and Fritter in lingerie was not an unwelcome one either...
“You touched my daughter?” Sev hissed, baring his fangs. “You little worm! You touched my daughter!” He coiled into a striking pose.
Seth stood up to his full height and walked over to Sev, now he was about as tall as an Arcanine at this point. “Until five minutes ago, you didn’t even have a daughter, so your opinion is irrelevant... but I will offer you this courtesy. I care for Rika very much, and Fritter too. I will never and have never done anything to hurt them...”
Sev stared at Seth for a moment. “You really are giving me confidence with pouring salt into the wound,” Sev rolled his eyes. “The fact remains. I am her father. It is my duty to protect her and since I’ve done a lousy job of that the last few years, I think I can make up for that well enough now. So, for the next few moments, I’m going to be dense and ignore every word you say because that’s what fathers do...Okay, some fathers...A few...Oh, just let my daughter do the talking, you worm.” He snorted. “Let’s hear what she has to say. I’ll listen to her.”
Seth shrugged and looked to Rika, who nodded in response. Truth be told, she was happy that Seth said he cared for her... now if only she could get him to say the ‘L’ word.
“Look... Papa,” she gave thought to that word. It felt... strange, but she’d also wanted to say it for a long time. “I love Sethy a lot, I have for a very long time. And, it’s very sweet for you to care about my wellbeing so much. But... if you hurt Sethy, or Fritter...” A sadistic smile crossed her face, one very much like Sev when he was feeling murderous. “I will hurt you in so many ways...” And just like that, her smile was replaced with a sugary one. “So everyone should get along kay?”
“That smile….” Sev’s smile nearly broke his face. “And you called me Papa...You called me PAPA!” He laughed. “She called me Papa!” He said to Umbra. He then turned to everyone else. “Everyone! I’m the father of the best daughter in the world!
“Congratulations!” One person shouted.
“NOBODY CARES ABOUT YOUR OPINION!” Sev shouted. “I’M A FATHER!”
“WHY?!!!!” Another voice shouted. “I ALREADY HAD ONE TO DEAL WITH! WHY TWO?!!” Sev just laughed maniacally in response.
“I wonder just what I have unleashed upon the world,” Umbra said idly.
“Beautiful Chaos,” A voice whispered, causing the Umbreon to glance around, but saw nothing.
“Our lives just got a lot stranger,” Seth muttered. He looked up and saw a small Kirlia standing behind them. “Hello little one, who might you be?”
“Hi,” the Kirlia chirped happily as she munched on a cookie. She waved at them. “I’m Lia! I’m his sister.” She nodded at Sev, who was dancing a victory dance.
“Sister?” Rika looked at the adorable Kirlia. “Then... that makes you, my aunt?”
“I believe so,” Umbra nodded, “Even if you are older.”
“I’m an aunt?” Lia fistpumped. “Yes, I’m a grown up now...Wait, my big brother had a kid? When did that happen?”
“A long time ago,” Umbra said, petting her on the head. “You should ask your Mommy about it, she’ll tell you how that works.”
“NO SHE WON'T!” Sev shouted. Lia pouted and crossed her arms.
“Psst, big sis Rika’ll totally tell you later,” Rika whispered.
“Big sis?” Lia pouted even harder. “Awww, I wanted to be the older sibling...er Aunt for once.”
Rika couldn’t do it, she couldn’t disappoint a face that was too cute to be considered fair. “Fine... I’ll tell you later, Aunty Lia.”
“YAY~” Lia glomped Rika.
“Seth?” Fritter asked. “Whut the heck is going on?”
“I have no idea,” the Luxray replied.
“I know,” Sev triumphantly stopped before them. “This is the start of a grand reunion, the sort that is the stuff of legends! Fitting for a being, such as I, who is close as to a Legendary as you can get.”
“And I’m assuming that you have some grand idea?” Seth deadpanned.
“We shall do what I always do,” Sev chuckled. “We shall tail it!!”
“Don’t you mean wing it, big brother?” Lia asked.
“I DON’T HAVE WINGS!” Sev shouted in irritation.
“Thanks Arceus for small miracles,” Seth muttered under his breath. Could you imagine if this nut could fly!?
A voice called out to him and he glanced over his shoulder to see Ignis and Selena approach. Oh... this should be fun.
“SELLY!” Rika detached herself from Lia and launched herself at the Absol, tackling her into a hug.
“MORE FRIENDS!” Lia giggled and glomped the Absol as well. “She’s so fluffy, I’m gonna die.”
“What the hell?” Selena shouted as she was assailed by the two Fairies. “Oh sweet Arceus, there’s two of them!”
Ignis chuckled and looked at the two new Pokémon. “Don’t tell me you picked up more stray’s brother,” he laughed. “We’ll run out of room at this point.”
“Hey, this is Umbra’s fault this time!” Seth protested. “I have nothing to do with this.”
“You have everything to do with this,” Sev glared at the Luxray. “You are human...were human, but not human, but essentially kind of sort of still human, in a way that is Pokémon, but not. However! That does not mean that you're not human, ACTUALLY HUMAN traits now linger in you now Pokémon body. Therefore, meaning you are the essence of all faults.” Sev nodded as he finished his rant. “I think I made my point.”
Seth and Ignis just blinked.
“I... see?” Ignis was just going to pretend he understood that. “Well, who are you anyhow?” Seth would have introduced the snake... if said snake wasn’t already on a long-winded introduction of his own…
“You do not know who I am?” Sev looked shocked. “I am the great and powerful Commander Sev, leader of the glorious PLA, blessed by she, Princess Luna and cohort to the King of Zebrica.”
“He who is long winded and pompous I see,” Ignis laughed. “Well then little Sevvy, how do you know my brother and sister here?”
“I AM NOT SEVVY!” Sev shouted, pointing a bladed tail at Ignis. “No one calls me Sevvy!”
“What was that Sevvy?” Umbra cooed, sliding a paw delicately down his scales with a feather-like touch. “I didn’t quite catch that.”
Sev blushed and looked in pure bliss. “I’m Sevvy….”
Ignis laughed heartily, “Oh boy, she has you whipped good huh?” But that raised a bigger question, “Why is Umbra taming a Seviper?”
“Because,” Rika said from her spot on Selena’s back. “He’s my father apparently...”
You could have heard a pin drop from the silence that emanated from Ignis and Selena... Until both Pokémon burst out laughing.
“Yeah, good one Rika,” Selena wiped a tear from her eye. “He’s your Dad?”
Rika nodded, “I’m not lying.”
“She really isn’t,” Seth and Fritter confirmed. “According to Umbra anyway, and I don’t see why she’d make this up... and it also explains quite a bit about Rika too.”
Selena paused. “...Sadisteon?”
“Sadisteon,” Seth nodded.
“Arceus-damn it!” the Absol swore.
“Are you people quite done with my name!?” A voice rang out from across the hall.
“I’M DONE WITH IT, JERK!” Sev shook his tail defiantly towards Arceus. “You just wish you were as cool as Luna!” He smiled, proud of himself for saying that.
“Princess Luna is pretty awesome,” Seth nodded. “And sorry Arceus, won’t happen again!”
The Alpha Pokémon just turned back to Celestia, “These. Insufferable. Mortals...”
“So, Rika found her Daddy,” Selena said. Honestly, she wasn’t fazed by anything at this point. “Now what?”
“Now what?” Seth echoed. “Actually... I have no idea. Do you live here in Canterlot, Sev?”
“I live in Zebrica,” he stated. “It’s a rural nation plagued by strife…” He sighed. “A new world, a new conflict.”
“That... sounds pretty bad,” Rika said quietly. “Are you alright over there? I thought Arceus brought us here because it was peaceful?”
“Compared to Hoenn, it’s paradise.” Sev rolled his eyes. “I don’t know what I’d do in a peaceful world anyway.” He shrugged. “I’ve been fighting a war for most of my life, probably die in one. That’s how life goes.”
“Sev...” Umbra said quietly. “If you die in one of those wars, I will revive you and kill you myself. Alright?”
“Yeah, I just found out I had a Dad, please don’t die so soon!” Rika’s stunning blue eyes watered.
Sev couldn’t resist those eyes. Never. “I’ll do my best, but seriously you need not ask. None can best the sheer awesomeness that is I! My hide is indestructible.”
“Unless you get hit by Ground, Psychic...” Seth rattled off a Poison Types weaknesses. “Other than that, you should be golden.”
“Pft, I could take him,” Ignis said. “He’s no Moltres, that’s for sure.”
“Is that so?” Sev eyed him up and down. “I have thrown Tyranitars to the ground. I am invincible! Did you not hear me before? I fight in the name of the moon...not Arceus anymore….No one calls my army ‘Team Plasma’ mark 2 and gets away with it.” Sev grumbled the last part to himself.
“You got guts, I’ll give you that,” Ignis nodded. “And I’d be glad to fight you anytime... just not tonight.”
Seth’s eyes widened as he suddenly turned and threw his forelegs around Selena in a tight hug. “Seth what are you-?” And just like that, he let her go, but Selena noticed that when he left there was something around her neck. Seth turned and gave Ignis the same treatment, leaving a metal ornament around the dragon’s neck, a shining stone in the centre.
Ignis blinked as he looked at the familiar neckpiece. “Seth... are- are these...?”
“Your Mega Stones,” Seth said, holding his Keystone. “Arceus returned them to me.”
Ignis couldn’t help but let out a happy roar, scaring the crap out of several nearby party-goers. “This. Is. AWESOME!!”
“Mega Stones?” Sev jolted in surprise. “You have Mega Stones. I demand you share!”
Seth shook his head, “Sorry Mr. Sev, I have a few Mega Stones, but I’ll be hanging on to them. They don’t exactly grow on trees after all.”
“Seth!” Ignis roared excitedly. “Let’s do it! Mega Evolve me!!”
“Not yet,” Seth chuckled. “We’ll scare the crap out of everyone here. Tomorrow, I promise.”
“Big brother,” Lia looked up at him. “What’s crap?”
“........” Sev frowned. “I hate humans.”
Seth put a paw to his mouth as Rika giggled. he didn’t realise how young Lia was.
“Eheh, sorry?” Seth said. “And it’s grown up stuff... uh, Lia was it?”
“Oh, like fuck?” Lia said, tilting her head to the side in curiosity. Sev grumbled, rubbing his forehead. She nodded. “And I’m Lia. You’re my littlest niece’s special someone?”
“M’taller than you,” Rika grumbled as Seth laughed.
“That’s right,” he replied, rubbing Rika’s head. “Apple Fritter here is also our special somepony.”
“Nice to meet you Lia,” Fritter smiled.
“Nice to meet you too,” Lia smiled. “So you have two special someones? That’s a lot.”
“It’s less common lately,” Fritter said. “But Seth didn’t want to hurt either of us, so I came up with this solution.”
“It’s a good thing I think Fritter is adorable,” Rika nodded. “What about you Lia? Do you have a special someone?”
“She doesn’t!” Sev shouted, slashing at the ground in anger.
Lia shook her head. “Nope, not yet. I’m looking though.”
Seth saw Sev visibly twitch and smiled at the snakes plight. “Well I hope it goes well little Lia. Though as adorable as you are, I wouldn’t be worried.”
Umbra had been sitting quietly for a while now. Many things were running through her mind and she knew a decision had to be made. She turned to Sev, a small smile on her face.
“So what happens now?” she asked. “Will you head back to this Zebra place?”
“After a small trip to Las Pegasus,” Sev hissed in anger. “We have heard of reports of a ‘doctor’ there. After he has been dealt with….” Sev paused and sighed. “I owe the King much. I must help him...Yes.”
“I see,” Umbra smiled again, though it was a sadder one. “Well... I hope you have a safe trip Sevvy, try to stay out of trouble hmm?” She looked back at Lightning Dust and beckoned for her to come closer.
“I can stay longer!” Sev shouted in desperation.
“What are you guys talking about?” Lightning huffed as she walked closer.
Umbra closed her eyes for a moment, “When exactly are you leaving Sevvy?” She had an idea, but hoped that the snake would be sticking around for a day or so.
“Well,” Sev started. “We aren’t leaving ‘now’ now. More later. Perhaps a few days.” Umbra’s eyes lit up and she smiled.
“Excellent, then tomorrow, you, Rika and I will spend the day as a family. No excuses or exceptions. Got it?”
“That sounds like it could be fun, maybe,” Rika replied. “At least I could get to know Se... Papa here a bit better.”
“Yes….” Sev’s smile nearly split his face. “Know papa...I’m a papa!” He laughed and turned to Rika. “Oh there are so many things I have to teach you, my future little commander.”
“Commander?” Seth frowned. “You better not fill my Rika’s head with weird stuff Mr. Sev!”
“Don’t worry, I’ll keep an eye on them,” Umbra laughed as she turned back to Lightning. “Sorry, now... your name was Lightning Dust, correct?”
“Yes,” Lightning snorted. “Thank you for noticing. For a moment, I thought you guys forgot about me.”
“Who could forget a cute little thing like you?” Umbra cooed, before her expression turned serious. “Now, as I understand it, you’ve been taking care of Sevvy here. Is that right?”
“More like keeping him alive,” Lightning said. “And even that’s hard. I mean, how can you stand the guy? He’s a lunatic.”
“Because he’s so cute,” Umbra giggled. “And the feeling of being wrapped on those strong coils is an incredible turn on~”
“Mom! Too much! Waaaay too much!” Rika said, blushing bright red.
“Oh?” Umbra shrugged. “Where was I? Ah yes, I have a small favour to ask of you dear Lightning.”
Lightning was blushing herself, looking really agitated. “Yeah, what is it?”
“Well... when Sev leaves...” she looked at her snake and gave him a small smile. “I won’t be accompanying him I’m afraid.” She sighed and looked back to the Pegasus, “You seem to be quite fond of him... so I want to ask you to keep looking out for him. I know he can be brash, loud and somewhat arrogant... but he needs others, he needs ones that care for him. Can I count on you for that Miss Dust?”
“I am none of those things,” Sev snorted.
“Yeah,” Lightning nodded. “I will.”
“Good girl,” Umbra smiled and then a salacious smirk crossed her face. She leaned in close and whispered into the mare’s ear. “If you ever want Sevvy to do something, simply run your feathers along his back when you ask. Turns him into a rather adorable, yet agreeable puddle of cute~”
“Really?” Lightning smirked, glancing at the snake.
Sev frowned. “Oh no, what did she tell you. Whatever it is, it is not true….unless it is something that is true then yes...yes it is.”
“What else? Oh, he enjoys having his tail blade polished... and has a thing for strong girls,” Umbra smiled.
“I wish you the best of luck Mr. Sev,” Seth said, his sensitive hearing having heard every word. “It would appear that you are quite popular.”
Sev smiled. “Yes I am.” He then frowned. “Yes I am.”
“My big brother’s the most popular thing ever,” Lia hugged him. “That’s a fact.”
Rika sided up next to Seth and purred, “Sethy~ I believe I was promised a dance tonight, since Fritter hogged all your time yesterday.”
A cold shiver went down Seth’s spine. Not because he didn’t want to dance with Rika... he just got a feeling that he was about to die... And then despite being more than twice her size, was dragged off to the dance floor by Rika.
“Ah, isn’t young love wonderful~” Umbra said wistfully.
“It also can be quite short,” Sev’s deadly grin bore on his face as he gazed at Seth. A drop of lethal venom dripped from his fangs. “Very short.”
“Sev, what did I say about threatening our son-in-law?” Umbra’s eyes glowed with Psychic power. “And you're setting a bad example for Lia.”
“Yeah,” Lia crossed her arms and glared at him. “Big brother, don’t be a meany. I wanna have little Eevee to cuddle. Eevees big brother.” She grinned as she imagined cuddling them.
Sev’s eyes widened. “Eevees?...My little girl?”
Umbra gave a small squeal, “Grandchildren? Oh, I can just picture their cute, little faces~”
Fritter gave a half-hearted smile. Well, that was something she wouldn’t be able to provide... “Foals huh...?”
Umbra heard the quiet comment and her eyes widened, “Oh.. oh dear, I’m sorry,” she hugged the mare.
“It’s alright,” Fritter replied. “Ah suppose there’s other ways... an we ain’t even that far in our relationship yet...”
“I’m sure it’ll work out, Miss Fritter.” Lia poked her big brother who was frozen in shock. “...Did you break him?”
Umbra walked over and then she got another brilliant idea. She looked at Lightning and chuckled darkly. “Oh Lightning dear? Why don’t you try and wake him up?”
Lightning walked over to him, turned around, and then bucked him. Sev went flying into a table. “That’ll do it.”
“GAH!” Sev looked around himself. “What happened? Are we under attack? YOU WILL FALL TO MY BLADE!” He powered up a Poison Tail and looked around himself.
Umbra blinked, then groaned and facepalmed... in that order. “I meant you should kiss him dear... and not with your hoof.”
“Kiss him?” Lightning’s face turned red. “That...that’s stupid. You’re stupid.” She pointed her hoof at Umbra. “I am not kissing him, ever!”
“She’s even more tsundere than you Sel,” Ignis chuckled as Selena frowned.
“I am not tsundere!” she pouted, blushing lightly. “Moron.”
“She has it bad,” Lia said.
“I DON’T!” Lightning shouted. “Shut up!”
Sev rushed back over. “Why are you screaming? Do you know what happened?” Lightning punched him. “Apparently you do.” Sev grumbled and rubbed his snout.
Umbra leaned over and kissed his little booboo, “Aw, don’t cry Sevvy, she loves you, I’m sure of it.”
“Some love,” Sev hissed. “Why must the ones in my life always hurt me?”
“Now that I don’t know...” Umbra turned to Lightning, “Perhaps Lightning was merely surprised by you and didn’t mean it. I’m sure she wants to give you a nice hug...” Umbra’s eyes narrowed. “Doesn’t she?”
Lightning scowled. “...Yes.” She quickly gave him a hug and pulled back. “That’s all you’re getting...idiot.” She snorted in anger.
“There we go, so adorable!” Umbra smiled. “Hmm, have we introduced these two yet?” She motioned towards Selena and Ignis.
“I know enough,” Sev snorted. “They are probably background mons or something. Yet….” He narrowed his eyes at Selena. “Have we met before?”
Selena paused and stared at Sev. “Does the name PLA ring any bells?” she asked the snake hesitantly. Who knows... it could be a different Seviper.
“I am Commander Sev of the PLA,” he hissed. “I think we have. Yes, most definitely.”
Selena twitched, “I remember you now... you and your little thugs tried to recruit me. ‘An Absol that can use Fairy moves is rare’, I believe that was the line you tried to feed me.” Selena huffed, “Plus, I didn’t like the way this one oggled my flanks.”
“Really?” Ignis looked at Sev hungrily. “You know... I always wondered what roasted Seviper tastes like...”
“Ignis, please don’t eat Sev,” Umbra sighed. “You’ll get indigestion.”
“None can eat me,” Sev stared down Ignis. “I eat them and they will know not to trifle with me….or die. Don’t really care really.”
“And yet a certain rock dinosaur almost ate you,” Luna chuckled as she walked past, catching the last part of the conversation.
“Princess Luna!” Sev shouted in surprise, looking at her. “You’re here?...You have a body?”
Luna stopped, blinked and then remembered who she was talking to. “Yes Sev, I have a body.” She gave the snake a small wink. “And quite a nice one if I do say so myself.”
Sev’s mouth went ajar. “I…….Can’t argue with that…..So...nice bo I MEAN, nice to meet you in the flesh,” he quickly bowed his head. Lightning grumbled.
“And you as well Sev,” Luna smiled. She gave a polite nod to Ignis, Selena and Fritter. “Oh, could one of you please tell Seth to come to the castle first thing tomorrow? I have something special I want to give him.”
“Sure,” Selena nodded. “I think he was planning on coming anyway.”
“Special….Give….HIM!” Sev turned to Seth. “WHAT?!!” He turned back to Luna. “But you took me under your wing. Don’t I get something?”
Luna smiled, that really annoying enigmatic one that seemed to come naturally to Celestia and Luna. “Of course Sev, would you like something in particular?”
“.....” Sev was lost in her eyes. “.....Yes.”
“An excellent answer!” Luna cheered. “I’ll have our artisans craft one for you as well. It should be done before you leave.” the Alicorn smiled and nodded, “Now I must go and ‘mingle’ as my sister puts it. And perhaps I shall find something fun to do. Until then my little Pokémon!” The lunar mare gave them a final wave and disappeared into the crowd.
“What was that about?” Umbra asked.
“...She left?” Sev blinked in surprise. He turned and pointed at Seth. “I blame you!”
Seth didn’t hear a thing as he danced slowly with Rika. The size difference made that somewhat difficult, but Rika had her ribbons wrapped around his neck and waist, while he had his head leaning over her shoulder.
“Yeah... I don’t think he heard you,” Selena said. “And what’s the deal with Luna? How come you know her?”
“She helps me…” Sev looked away. “She comes to me in my dreams. She actually took the time to help me see and understand me….She actually cared, unlike Arceus.” He snorted. “That’s why I decided to lead the PLA under her name for now on. We fight for Luna.”
“So, Pokémon Luna Alliance?” Selena guessed. “What is it that you’re doing now?”
“Fighting for glory,” Sev announced. “For freedom in Zebrica and the moon’s splendor!”
Selena nodded, she tried to recall the other PLA member that tried to recruit her. She believed it was an Aggron.
“I remember you had an Aggron with you, a really loud one at that.” Selena tried to remember that day. She’d gone into the forest for some solo training when they were visiting the Hoenn region. “Something about a pudding bomb...”
“Pudding bomb?” Umbra looked at Sev. “Really?”
“It was a work in progress,” Sev snorted. “It would have been rice pudding. No one likes that.”
All the Pokémon present, plus the two ponies shuddered in disgust.
“That is pure evil,” Ignis said.
Fritter dashed off, returning quickly with several Apple family pies. “Ah need something to wash that though outta mah head. Anyone else want some pie?”
Ignis took one, swallowing the whole pie in one bite. “Ahh, I do believe ah am satisfied,” he said with a surprisingly good Apple family accent. Good enough to make Fritter giggle.
“That was pretty good,” Selena said, poking her mate in the belly. “Too bad Seth’s accent is terrible.”
Fritter nodded, Seth tried her accent out once and the end result was him promising to never, ever do that again. The mare looked at the Luxray and Sylveon and trotted off to be with them, the three forming an awkward three-way dance.
Luna eventually made her way back over to them, looking rather bored. “Urgh, politics. We just had a solid week of that. Why is this party not more of a... party. Perhaps friend Pinkie Pie could arrange something? Or you Sev! Could you entertain your Princess?”
Sev bowed. “Of course, Your Majesty. Anything for you.” He turned to his soldiers nearby. “YOU! Gather the instruments,” he turned to some more. “You grab some Pokémon with actual talent this time to play them.” He turned to Lia. “You, be cute and adorable!”
“Okay,” Lia smiled.
Umbra held back a laugh. What was that crazy snake up to now?
“Alright,” Sev said to the now presented musicians. One of them gave him a baton. “Follow my lead. One, two three….” He was then blasted by such a horrible note that is sent him flying back into the wall. “.....I said talented!” He shouted out from the hole.
Luna’s laugh rang like clear crystal. “Ahhaa, such merriment. You are doing well Sev, but perhaps the music should be left for the professionals.”
“I have noticed that ponies seem quite talented in that area,” Umbra noted. She looked at Lightning, “What about you? Can you play or sing?”
“All ponies can sing,” Lightning snorted. “I just don’t. I’m too cool to sing.”
All of a sudden, Rika was right in front of them. “I can sing! Ooh, Ooh! Lia, Let’s sing something!”
“Yes!” Lia bounced up and down in excitement. “I can sing really good. My mommy taught me. She’s the bestest.”
Rika nabbed several Pokémon from the crowd and gave them instruments. “Okay, ready?” What followed was a bright, bubbly song that soon had everyone’s toes, hooves, etc tapping away. Rika’s voice was like that of an angel, pure and innocent. Lia’s little voice harmonised perfectly and soon several ponies were singing away too, turning the Gala into a giant musical number.
“She’s pretty good huh?” Seth said to Sev, having followed his little Fairy.
“My sister is the greatest singer that has ever sang in existence,” Sev nodded. “Gard would dispute that, however. He always thought his ‘trainer’ was the greatest.”
“I see,” Seth nodded. He looked around, seeing that Diantha was still conversing with Cynthia. Ignis was poking at his Mega stone, Seth reckoned that he wouldn’t be sleeping tonight.
Fritter leaned against him and sighed. “Mah life has certainly gotten more interesting with you around, you know?”
“Join the line,” Seth agreed. “I think mine went straight past ‘interesting’ and well off into something that I can’t quite describe. If you’d told me a month ago that I’d be in another world, dating a pony and learning that Rika’s father was the leader of some Pokémonmilitia... I’d have said good day and be done with it.” He leaned against his mare as he watched the two Fairies launch into an encore. “Honestly, my life is pretty hectic now... but I wouldn’t change a thing about it.” He spared a glance at Sev, “Well... almost nothing.”
“So,” Umbra said to Sev, “Can you believe it now? That you have a very beautiful and talented daughter?”
“I am the happiest mon in the world,” Sev sighed blissfully. He then glared at Seth. “Well, almost anyways.”
“Boys will be boys I suppose,” Umbra sighed. She looked at Lightning, “At least they have us girls to keep them in line... are you singing?”
Lightning clamped her mouth shut. “Nope.”
“You are just the most adorable thing~” Umbra cooed. Luna on the other hoof, had joined the Pokémon up on stage, her melodious voice ringing out across the room.
“Luna appears to be having fun now,” Seth said. “Seriously, why is every pony such a good singer?” he looked at Fritter, “I’d like to hear you sing sometime.”
“Nope!” Fritter blushed. “Not how and not ever!”
“Yes, let’s.” Sev said, gazing up at Luna. “Our glorious goddess sings. She would be disappointed if you didn’t join in.”
Umbra nodded and she too begun to sing, and it became quite clear where Rika got her talent from. Umbra’s dulcet tones were stunningly beautiful and soon her and Luna begun a power ballad duet together.
“Wow!” Rika whistled. “I had no idea Momma could sing like that.”
“She could,” Sev nodded. “I can sing as well, but I prefer war tunes...or songs of home.” He frowned. “Never really had that.”
“A home?” Seth inquired. “Did you not have one?”
“Yes,” Sev nodded slowly. “But I was never there for long periods of time...I was busy.”
“I suppose I can relate in a way,” Seth replied. “I never knew my parents, they died while I was still a baby, so I grew up in an orphanage.” Seth sighed, “I never really became tied to one place until I met Elesa.”
“...An orphan?” Sev blinked a few times. “Yes...I was once that. Not for long though. My mother soon found me in that hell hole.”
“Well what do you know, we have something in common at last,” Seth chuckled. “Well, other than the fact we both care for Rika.”
Sev put the edge of his blade against Seth’s throat. “You are trying to bond with me, aren’t you?” He snorted. “Silly little mon, you think I’m just okay with my daughter, who I’ve never seen before, already in the arms of another?”
“Papa...!” the chill of death itself went down the snakes spine as Rika stood behind him. Her cute blue eyes filled with unprecedented rage. Her tone was as still as the night air and just as chilly. “What did I say about playing nice?”
Sev hissed in anger. “For you….” He slowly pulled away. “I will play nice.” He patted Seth’s head. “As nice as any father to the one who ‘steals’ his daughter’s heart.”
“I stole nothing.” Seth defended himself. A small pink Pokémon just defended him, he needed to reassert his masculinity. Stat. “Up until a week ago, I had no interest in Pokémon romantically... but Rika wore me down I suppose. And I’ll play nice too... for her sake.”
“....Wait, my daughter was the one who pursued you?” Sev blinked in surprise. He then looked at Rika. “Him? This guy?”
“Whaaaat?” Rika replied. “He was cute, and sweet, and nice and now he’s a fluffy, and incredibly sexy Luxray!”
“Sexy?” Seth raised an eyebrow as Rika nodded, even Fritter had a small blush.
“Do you have to call him sexy?” Sev groaned. “Really? Come on, it’s like you want me to hate him.”
“Okay, then how about physically and hormonally attractive?” Rika suggested.
“Rika, just stop,” Seth sighed, ignoring Sev’s glares and decided a change in subject was in order. “So what’s happening tomorrow?”
“Well, Princess Luna wants you here at the castle for some reason,” Selena said. “And I believe that Rika and her parents are having a family day?”
“Well, I want to anyhow,” Umbra replied. “I want the three of us to have some time before Sevvy has to leave. And just the three of us.”
Sev happily nodded. “Yes, just the three of us...As a family….” His eyes started to water. “I made a family.” And just like that, he was shedding tears. Again.
“Aw, don’t cry Papa,” Rika said and just like that, for the first time, the little Sylveon hugged her father.
Sev hugged her back, but his crying got worse. “S-sorry, my little one. I shouldn’t cry….” He tried to wipe away his tears.
“Yup, Papa’s gotta be manly!” Rika giggled. “Isn’t that right Aunt Lia?”
Lia rushed over and hugged him tightly. “Don’t cry, big brother. It’ll be okay. We’re together now and it’ll stay that way.”
“Hugs on Sevvy~” Umbra giggled as she dragged Lightning Dust over for a massive group hug.
“Let me go,” Lightning growled. “Fine, one!” She quickly gave the Seviper a hug. “Just one.”
Most ponies had been a bit confused by the sudden cuddle-fest, especially when Pinkie suddenly started hugging everyone in sight. Soon the Pokémon split up and Seth chuckled lightly.
“Well, that was strange...”
“What do you mean ‘strange’?” Sev piped up.
“Not used to sudden cuddle piles, even when Rika’s involved,” Seth said. Even Luna had flown off, surprising her sister with a flying hug. “Equestria man, this place will rob you of all masculinity.”
“I need none of whatever that thing is,” Sev puffed out his chest. “I am far better than it.”
“Did you hear that Lia?” Rika said with a smirk. “Papa says he’ll have a tea party with you whenever you want~”
“He already does that,” Lia pointed out. “He’s the bestest big brother ever!”
“Wow, you really are a cool Papa,” Rika said. “You get a gold star!” Pinkie popped out of the crowd and placed a gold star sticker on the Seviper’s head.
“In case of sticker emergencies,” she explained before running off with Hoopa.
“...what?” Even Rika could not comprehend what just happened.
“I have received a gold star,” Sev smiled. “For I am the greatest….Who was that mare and why do I feel the urge to make her a General?”
Elsewhere, General Gard paused and frowned. “I’m getting a migraine... Sev is thinking something fantastically stupid right now...”
The party was starting to wind down, and Seth yawned, showing of his sharp teeth. “Whew... I’m getting a bit sleepy...”
Fritter would have responded, but the mare was snoozing happily, laying across Seth’s back. Rika nodded and rubbed one of her eyes. “Me tooooo, sleepy Rika is sleepy.”
“Rika,” Sev said. “A Commander is above sleep….” He yawned. “But it would be nice to talk with Luna some more.”
“Well, then we should get going for the evening.” Seth shifted slightly, putting Fritter into a more comfortable position. “Tonight has been... strange.”
“And interesting,” Rika mumbled. “An’ I got to meet daddy...”
“I can’t believe you’re all so sleepy,” Umbra said, with Selena nodding in agreement. “Night time is the best time!”
“Agreed!” Luna nodded. “But We understand now that some mortals require sleep during the night... as to why, well that continues to elude Us. Hmm, maybe We should swap with Tia and become the sun Princess. She can raise the moon, how hard can it be to raise the sun?”
“I don’t need to sleep,” Sev smirked. “I shall enjoy the glory of the night in all of it’s splendor. There is no better time to be awake.”
“Says the snake that is making me seasick from his rocking,” Umbra smiled. “Well, I shall procure some coffee for us night dwellers, I take it that you’re off home then Seth?”
“Yeah, poor Fritter has never stayed up this late. And Rika looks like she’s about to fall asleep standing.”
“M’not sleepyyyyy~” Rika mumbled from her spot on the floor. “Just resting my eyesss.”
“That is the spirit, young one.” Sev chuckled. “Don’t give it, fight! That is the Commander way. Ah, and what a fine one you shall make. The world will shake in your very presence.”
“Mmm, milkshake~” Rika snored, the realm of sleep had claimed another victim.
“Aaaand she’s gone,” Seth chuckled. “Well, I’d best go before I wind up carrying my whole team home.” he turned to Sev and nodded his head. “It was... nice to meet you Sev.”
Sev bowed his head. “Maybe one day I shall say the same.”
“Hopefully,” Seth agreed, though his tone a bit more forced. “I won’t give up you realise. I can be stubborn like that.”
Fritter mumbled something in her sleep and hugged Rika a bit tighter, the Sylveon making a noise similar to a squeaky toy.
“What was... never mind, not even gonna question that,” Seth muttered. “So, until tomorrow then?”
“Until tomorrow Seth,” Umbra nodded. “Have a good night.” The small group left, with only Umbra remaining behind. “Well Sevvy, Seth is still alive, so I guess you don’t hate him that much.”
“Maybe I just want him to suffer?” Sev asked, carrying a sleeping Lia on his back.
“Or maybe you are a terribly nice snakey sometimes, and that’s why I love you so much,” she stated, kissing his cheek. “Honestly, so much could be resolved if everyone could just admit their feelings, like that Pegasus girl.”
Sev huffed, glancing at Lightning who was also sleeping on his back. “I very much doubt….” Sev blushed and looked at her. “You still love me so?”
“I never stopped,” Umbra said. “But it has been a long time, things have changed... we have changed. What we had, it’s gone forever Sevvy.” Umbra sighed and her rings glow faded. “We ended because of my foolish ex-trainer, who abandoned me when I had Rika... I spent many years living with hate in my heart Sev, and if it wasn’t for Rika...” She shuddered when she recalled an old memory, of a human she almost killed out of pure hate. “Rika was what kept my heart intact. But yes Sev, I still love you, even now.”
Sev twitched in anger. “It always comes to humans….Ruining everything.” He hissed in anger. “I….never even got to hold her egg, or hear her first word...even an argument over what dress she wants to wear out. Anything,” he tapped the ground relentlessly in his agitation. “I have been absent her whole life till now.”
“And you have the rest of your days to make up for that,” Umbra said softly, stroking Lia’s head as she stirred. “Nobody is blaming you Sev and we are all fine. Rika has grown into a confident and powerful young Pokémon. Heh, did you know she could go toe-to-toe with a Champion’s Pokémon?”
“Really?” Sev grinned. “With a champion? Oh, I’m sure our baby girl was victorious!”
“Well I don’t know, the League kicked Seth out before the championships... or so I’ve been told. They were never given the chance to prove themselves.” The Umbreon spotted Diantha leaving the Gala, a shining Keystone around her neck. “Perhaps... they may still get that chance.” She turned back to the snake and with a flick of her tail, nabbed his PLA hat and put it on her head.
“Heehee, General Umbra of the PLA, how do I look, O’ Great Commander?”
“All hail Umbra!” Sev cheered.
“As well you should,” The Umbreon chuckled. “I wonder what your other Generals would say, taking a former lover as a General? Ooh, such scandal~”
“Gard can do it,” Sev huffed. “So can I!...Well, not really the ‘former’ part, my sweet. We can leave that behind.”
“Ah, but your little marefriend there might get jealous,” Umbra replied. “Though... she is cute, and if Rika can learn to share...”
“And thus We return with the nectar of life!” Luna’s shout nearly caused Umbra to jump out of her skin as the Alicorn walked back to them, floating several pots of coffee. “Our sister thinks she can keep this liquid from Us? I say Nay!”
“I am above coffee,” Sev grinned. “But if you insist, I shall have one that is prepared by our great goddess of the night.”
“Excellent!” Luna clapped her hooves. “We prepared this brew Ourselves, and We hope it is too your liking!”
The brew in question was potent... to say the least. This was coffee meant to keep an Alicorn awake... Sev would stand no chance.
Sev took a cup and drank it. “Tis most excellent,” he chimed. “Though it might not work all at once. Reptilian you know.”
Umbra sniffed the coffee and pushed it away. Drink that vapourised your nose hairs was not meant for consumption. “Yes, well... you can keep that one. I think I’ll be fine.”
“A pity,” Luna shrugged, simply drinking from one of the pots. “Now Sev, let us talk...”
*~*
“Well, that was certainly an interesting evening,” Seth mused as he walked slowly so he wouldn’t disturb his sleeping passengers.
“Interesting it putting it mildly,” Selena groaned. “I can’t believe that scaled fruitcake is Rika’s father.”
“Mega. I get to Mega Evolve!” Ignis repeated to himself. “And then I’ll re-challenge Reshiram and it will be awesome....
“And I guess I’m sleeping alone tonight,” Selena muttered. She looked at her own Mega stone and smiled. “But I do understand somewhat, it’s like the feeling of being home again.”
Seth nodded, glancing at his bag full of stuff. “Too bad half of it is useless now... like my Holocaster and XTransceiver.”
Once they arrived home, Titania and Christine were in the middle of yet another argument.
“Eh, I’m too tired for this crap,” Seth muttered as he headed upstairs. he flicked the lights off as he did, plunging the arguing Fairy and Dragon into darkness.
“Well... um, bedtime then?” Titania shrugged.
“Might as well,” Christine shrugged. “Just do me a favour and don’t wake up again.”