2 Chapter 2:

As soon as Lusamine and her children walked through the door, a plethora of thoughts crossed my mind. How bad is my natural luck? Did she always look that hot? However, I didn't have any time to seek answers to those questions, because I had already opened my mouth.

"It's wonderful to see you again, Lusamine."

None of my words were lies either, it truly was wonderful to see her again. I just wished that I had a little more time to prepare for this reunion than the others. I was told that this timeline was a mess, so I had no idea how to approach Lusamine, a person who's had varying degrees of sanity across all pokemon media.

She offered a wonderful smile in response, that may have made me have a little gay panic. I took in her features, and Nintendo didn't do her any justice. She was FAR sexier in real life, but I don't think Nintendo is really a company that cares about their character's sexiness level. Then again, they made Wario, so maybe they do care about sexiness levels if that absolute chad was made.

The only thing that marred her flawless skin was the streaks of mascara that were still present, even after she probably tried to clean herself up. The sight of those streaks instantly sobered me up from my rather quick 'sightseeing'. I stood up from the couch, and opened my arms, she clearly needed a hug. Sure, there's a real chance she's insane, but she's still a dear friend of mine.

I can't imagine how hard she took my disappearance because out of everybody, she was the person who I think would be most affected. She had already lost Mohn, her husband, to an Ultra Wormhole a few years before my own inevitable departure because of one. She lost her husband and best friend to a thing she can't stop or control, she probably felt so helpless.

She took my offer of a hug, instantly walking over to me and pulling me into her tight embrace. I could feel her chest against mine, almost damaging my ribs with how tight she was hugging me. I wrapped my own arms around her, in my own tight embrace as she buried her head into the crook of my neck.

"You're real..." I heard her say in disbelief, barely above a whisper.

Just a short few words from her managed to convey the situation to me, and it was a little heartbreaking. She waited for five long years, probably giving up hope that I would return, that I would break my past self's promise saying that I wouldn't leave her. Meanwhile, I was ignorant of her situation for a total of 26 years. Sure, a goddess literally stole my memories, but that only helped my consciousness a tiny bit.

"Of course. I promised I would always return, didn't I?"

I was twisting my past words a little, but I don't think Lusamine minded one bit. In fact, judging by the now damp feeling I have on my shoulder, I think they worked just fine. It wasn't even past the first reunion, and I already had tears soaking my clothes. I began rubbing her back in circles, hoping to soothe the crying woman, as we stood in silence.

While I was trying to calm down Lusamine, I decided to use aura's telepathic capabilities to greet her children. They were currently standing there in sheer disbelief, probably never seeing their mother like this ever.

'I don't know if you both remember me, but I certainly remember you two. It's wonderful to see you both again, Gladion, Lilie. You've both grown so much in my absence. And, yes, I am talking into your minds right now. Try not to react out loud, your mother needs some silence right now.'

Of course, they both instantly reacted out loud. Lilie was much more vocal than Gladion was, but they both did nonetheless. Thankfully for them, Lusamine was far too preoccupied sobbing her heart out to notice their outbursts. I had to stifle a chuckle at their reaction to my voice appearing in their mind, Lusamine might have gotten the wrong idea if I burst out in laughter while she was at her most vulnerable.

'Am I doing this correctly?' A timid female voice came through my mind.

'If I can hear you, I think so. I don't know why they didn't teach me this in school, I can probably talk to my pokemon like this.' Gladion's voice replied.

'You are doing it perfectly, Lilie, just try not to squint your eyes so hard. Also, Gladion, they couldn't teach you this, you need a natural talent for it. Disregarding that, however, how have you both been these past years? I want the truth from you, as your mother is currently preoccupied.' I asked them.

'Damn, that sucks! Can you check if I have the talent?'

'Sure thing, just wait until afterward.' I agreed.

'Thanks. Also, our mother has been going craz-'

'Gladion!' Lilie interrupted.

Lusamine calmed down by then, so I had to cut the connection, something I only did after informing the children about the lack of future mind communication. I reached into my pocket, to discreetly make some tissues for Lusamine, who had made a mess of my shoulder area. She quickly put the tissues to work on cleaning up her rather messy face.

"Better?" I asked her with a gentle tone and matching smile.

"The best... I apologize about your clothing, I will happily pay for the dry cleaning if you would like." She replied while dabbing at her eyes with the tissues.

"You don't need to worry about that, lets take a seat, alright? I'm sure you have a lot of questions."

I lead them to the couches, and took my seat, with Lusamine choosing to sit rather close to me. She was practically connected to my waist, and her hand was on my thigh, squeezing it on occasion. I wasn't stupid, not like my past self, I knew what she was doing. But, I had more pressing matters to deal with than her trying to seduce me.

I placed my hand on top of Lusamines, mainly in hopes that she would hold that instead of my thigh, which was rather distracting. She instantly latched onto it, and gently interlocked her fingers with mine, the smile on her face was so endearing when she did. This, however, also brought up an issue in my mind where Lusamine may be touch-starved, which was never a pleasant thing.

"As wonderful as holding your hand is, Lusamine, don't you have some questions for me?"

She stiffened and her grip on my hand grew tighter. I gently squeezed back to let her know that I was there to support her, and she finally spoke up,

"What happened inside the Ultra Wormhole?"

'The big question right off the bat, huh?' I thought with a mental sigh.

Before I could answer that question, I needed to know what happened to Mohn in this timeline. This world has manga events. and those are much darker than other media, so he may have just perished. I created a link between myself and Arceus who was in his ball, before asking,

'Arceus, what happened to Mohn in this timeline?'

'He was sucked into an Ultra Wormhole and was forced to live in constant sensory deprivation inside Ultra Space, which when combined with Nihilego's fascination with the human lead to complete loss of memory regarding his family. He is currently located on a small island off of Alola's main islands running the PokéPelago, completely unaware of his previous life,' he explained.

Lusamine grew noticeably more worried about my lack of a response, most likely assuming that it was traumatic, which she wasn't wrong about, it just wasn't to the level she thought of. She gave my hand a comforting squeeze but didn't push verbally for an answer.

"Well, when I was sucked into the Ultra Wormhole, I was forced through dimensions. At one point in time, I found Mohn-"

"Was he okay?"

"Physically? He was fine, only a little more added weight, was all."

"Oh no..." Lusamine gasped out, she could clearly see where this was going.

"Why 'oh no'? Isn't this good? Dad's alive!" Lilie asked, with a confused expression.

"Lilie, she specified that he was fine physically, that means he wasn't fine mentally, right?" Gladion answered.

"Sadly, Gladion's right, Lilie. Your father has lost all of his memories of his life in Alola, of his family, and of his friends. He's completely forgotten his past life from before his departure into the Ultra Wormhole."

With that said and done, I had dropped a rather huge bomb on the family, so I decided to give them some time to process it. Lusamine was silent, and calmly accepting of the situation at hand. Gladion was begrudgingly accepting my words as fact. Meanwhile, Lilie was in denial, claiming that if he saw her, then his memories would come back, a suggestion that Lusaminie and Gladion shot down completely, reasoning that if he didn't recognize someone he's known for over a decade, he wouldn't recognize her, a person who he knew for a shorter period of time.

I, however, needed to get out of this sweater as I could feel the tears seeping through to my skin, and it was very unpleasant. I pulled it over my head and could feel my shirt ride up a tiny bit, but I quickly removed it. I hoped that I didn't inadvertently flash the two minors in front of me, that would have been awkward.

Unfortunately, I didn't remove it fast enough, as Lusamine was staring at my abs- or rather -where my abs were located underneath my shirt. Deciding to play with fire a little bit, I gave her a sultry wink. Then I realized it may not have been the best idea to flirt with someone in front of her children, one of whom was currently blushing up a storm at the interaction and the other was mock gagging.

"A-As wonderful as that was, Victoria, and it really~ was, I would like to prefer it if we could keep such... activities out of the sight of children."

"I'm not a child!" Lilie huffed.

"Lilie, how old are you?"

"Nine!"

"Hm~? Not even in the double digits yet? You're still a child." I teased the now pouting blonde.

Lusamine had to step in before Lilie pouted herself unconscious from a lack of oxygen, which was very amusing. It also showed that she still genuinely cared for her children as a mother should. After reassuring Lilie that I was just 'joking', Lusamine asked for me to continue my story.

"Alright, where was I again?"

"You got the point where you met Mohn and discovered his condition."

"After my brief meeting with Mohn, I was then forced to be 'reborn' in the body of a child in another universe with my memories stolen from me. It was a world without pokemon, where humanity reigned supreme as the dominant species."

I ignored their gasps at my revelations, and continued on,

"I was toyed with for 22 of my 26 years while living in that universe by a bored goddess who wanted some 'fun', and I was the subject of her sick amusement. I was forced into a state of constant helplessness as I watched..." I trailed off as the words got stuck in my throat, and tears welled up in my eyes.

I couldn't do it, I couldn't finish my words, it hurt me even trying to recall them. I was the hero of Galar for fuck's sake! Yet, I couldn't finish the first reunion without breaking down. I tried to put on a smile like my past self, to be the positive charismatic person I once was, but I couldn't hold that facade in front of the first friend I came across.

As the previously unshed tears fell from my eyes, I was so ashamed of myself. I was supposed to be this person that never wavered, never was defeated, but my own memories could defeat me, did defeat me. The images of the countless deaths of people I cared for flashed in my mind, reminding me that I couldn't just start anew, I couldn't just forget the past just like I was planning to.

"You don't have to continue if you don't want to!" Lilie said, clearly panicked.

"She's right, darling, take your time."

It took a few seconds for me to recompose myself, and presentable once more. Arceus used Refresh to speed up the process, which I thanked him for. I only processed Lusamine's new nickname for me after I had finished composing myself, it was certainly an unexpected development, but I didn't hate it.

"No, Lilie, I do, even if it's just for myself. As I was saying... everybody that I cared for or got too close to, ended up dead, in severe pain, or seriously injured within a week. Sometimes, they were subjected to all three. It was terrible, but I got used to it because I thought that would be all my life would ever be.

Thankfully, I was wrong about that, and I was returned to this world when a higher power noticed that I wasn't in the universe I was supposed to be in along with my previously stolen memories. I skipped a lot of details, but that was what my life was like after my 'final' battle until my return where I blasted through my statue. Which, by the way, got my face entirely wrong."

A tense silence descended upon the room as soon as the words left my mouth. It was an understandable reaction, they were just told that Gods were real, a universe where pokemon don't live exists, and the terrible life that I had to live after my final battle.

Lilie was silently crying into her handkerchief, at what I assume to be my description of my 2nd life. Gladion was his usual brooding self, but he was noticeably more somber than usual. Lusamine, however, was completely emotionless on the outside. I knew, however, that she was furious and upset that the so-called goddess was able to take me away from her.

I reached out to her clenched fist, which was threatening to rip her black dress, and soothingly ran my thumb over her knuckles. My attempts at calming her down worked wonders, and she unclenched her fist, before returning her hand to its previous position of holding my own.

"Will that woman ever be able to take you away from us- from me -again?" Lusamine asked.

"No, she won't."

Lusamine let out a sigh of relief,

"That's a positive, at least. If you ever wish to talk about- well -anything, you can call me. It would be nice to finally be able to repay the kindness you showed me when I was still getting over Mohn's sudden disappearance."

She took out a notepad from her pocket and handed me a ripped piece of paper with her number written on it while blushing slightly. There was a little addition to the numbers, though, it was a little heart. It was adorable how she acted like a shy schoolgirl handing their crush their number.

"Giving a young woman like myself your number so soon? Some people might get the wrong idea, darling~!" I decided to use darling to address her as well.

What happened next was a shock to everybody watching, Lusamine decided to retort, and confirm her interest in me. But, I dealt with the new scenario as I did with every other unexpected one beforehand, I turned my brain off and went with the flow.

"Oh, darling~, whoever said that they would be incorrect in their assumptions?"

"Hm~, is that so? Well, everybody makes mistakes, so it's natural that I could be wrong too."

I had no idea why I was playing with fire like this, I wasn't ready for a relationship, let alone one that would come with two children as a bonus package. I can't raise children! Sure, Lilie and Gladion don't really need any raising that a typical child would due to their ages, which is a slight positive. But, I would still have to act as a motherly figure to them, which I'm completely unsure about ever being able to do.

"Yuck!" Gladion interrupted the rather 'romantic' moment.

"Gladion, don't be rude!" Lilie scolded the teen.

"It's fine, Lilie, your brother was just embarrassed," Lusamine added with a small laugh.

"Now, we've talked about my life after my departure, I want to talk about all of yours, starting with Gladion."

"Not me?" Lusamine curiously asked.

"Well, I have to save the best for last, don't I?"

She soon put on the smuggest possible smile I think anyone could manage when facing her two kids. I guess she's either really happy to be called the best, or her competitive side came through. Either way, she was very smug about being called the best.

"Then, why am I going first?"

"Aww! Are you jealous of your own mother?"

"Is that true, Gladion? How adorable."

As Lusamine took her chance to tease her son, I decided to contact Arceus once more for some information,

'Arceus, has Gladion stolen the Type: Null, and started his mercenary work yet? Also, is this room currently being watched? I don't exactly want for Lusamine's family issues to be out in the open, I'm fine with my own being out there.'

'He has indeed stolen Type: Null, the artificial pokemon, and started his mercenary work for team skull. The room is also indeed being watched, it is being watched by all of those you had Oleana invite in on the atrium on the 2nd floor. Do you wish for me to stop the recording for your talk with Lusamine's family?'

'Is that so? At least I don't have to talk about my past with them all. That would be for the best, thank you, partner.'

'Consider it done.'

Now that I think about it, Type: Null is just a budget Arceus that was made by humans. A normal type pokemon that needs an item to change its type and subsequent typing of its signature move? If that doesn't scream Arceus vibes, I don't know what does.

"So, Gladion, you are what? 12/13, now? Do you have any pokemon of your own yet?" I asked, trying to urge him to speak more.

"Come on out guys." he threw two pokeballs out.

The two pokemon were a Zorua, and a Zubat. I knew that he had a Type: Null, so he was clearly smart in not revealing it to his mother. Zubat instantly flew upwards and knocked itself out by hitting the ceiling, I'm guessing it's a rather new addition to the team and a young Zubat which hasn't properly sorted its echolocation out yet, at that.

I caught the Zubat in an aura bubble before it fell to the floor, and gently placed it on a nearby table. I made sure to put the fainted pokemon on a table nowhere near Lilie, as it looked as if her trauma of touching pokemon was present, something I would try to combat during this meeting too.

"I'm guessing that the Zubat is rather young. A Zorua too? Taking after your father, I see."

"Yeah, he had a Zoroark, and I wanted to at least raise my own one to remember him. Plus, they're pretty cool."

"But, I'm getting the feeling that you haven't been completely honest with me here, Gladion. Take out that final pokeball in your hoodie, and let me see that pokemon. It wouldn't be fair to not release your first ever pokemon out of its pokeball, right?"

He gave me the dirtiest glare I had seen in quite a while, but my amused smile didn't leave my face. Lilie, however, looked ready to faint at the mention of there possibly being another pokemon being released. Lusamine was watching the entire interaction silently with a raised eyebrow.

"Lilie, dear, why don't you come and sit on the couch with me. I'll keep you safe, I promise." I coaxed the shaking girl.

"R-Really?" she sounded so scared, it almost hurt listening to her voice.

"Mhm! I'm suuuuuper~ strong, you know? Plus, what kind of hero would I be, if I let you be so scared in my presence?"

The small blonde-haired girl who took previously hesitant steps gradually sped up her gait to a speedwalk as she approached me. When she got to me, I moved to the side, allowing her to sit between myself and Lusamine, where she would probably feel the most protected. She took the newly opened seat almost immediately and pressed herself up against me as I wrapped my arm around her.

Lusamine looked on at mine and Lilie's interaction a little jealous. Jealous of who? I think it was a bit of both. She probably wanted Lilie to rely on her, to protect her. She also probably wanted to be the one cuddling up to my side as well.

"Now, Gladion, why don't you release your Type: Null?" I dropped yet another bomb for the family.

Type: Null is an artificial pokemon created by the Aether Foundation, the company that Lusamine currently heads, by one of the scientists. They had used the DNA of every pokemon they could find, in order to make it compatible with every pokemon typing, and able to change typings whenever a certain memory disk was inserted into the slot next to its head when it evolves and gains full access to the RKS system as a Silvally.

Unfortunately, every previous pokemon with access to the RKS system went beserk, so all following Type: Null were created with a limiter cage stuck to their heads which limited them from accessing the RKS system until they were fully able to utilize it without going berserk. And, Gladion's current goal is to free Type: Null from his limiter cage, despite the fact that only Type: Null themselves can get rid of the limiter when they find a partner they can fully trust.

"Gladion-" Lusamine started before I interrupted her.

"Now, now, Lusamine, could you stay quiet for me, darling?"

I received a nod from her as she pinched the bridge of her nose. I couldn't blame her for her reaction. Her son was the one who stole the Type: Null from the laboratory and was traveling with it, the beserk pokemon that has had more fatalities linked to its creation than anyone could care to count. She has a right to be angry at him- or at least -in my eyes, she did anyway.

"Come on out, partner," Gladion said, releasing his final pokemon.

After the red light died down, Type: Null was revealed. The chimera pokemon was curious about his new surroundings but was very cautious of Lusamine and my own presence. It could probably sense the aura I was emitting to make sure it stayed where it was, and Lusamine was the person who ordered its creation, and subsequent limitation.

Lilie instantly went stock still, and her repressed memories came flowing through her mind as her encounter with Nihilego and how the pokemon basically mind-raped her were re-remembered. I knew that this would happen, and that she would mistakenly assume that Type: Null, the pokemon who actually saved her from Nihilego, was the pokemon that did that to her.

"It's wonderful to see you, Type: Null." I gave the pokemon some berries.

As the pokemon was feasting, away after looking towards Gladion for permission to eat them, I needed to calm down Lilie. I turned to face the blonde-haired girl and brought her into my tight embrace where I stroked her back to try and calm her down enough to talk.

I caught sight of Lusamine, who was probably making assumptions that Type: Null hurt Lilie in some way, therefore being the cause of Lilie's reaction. Thankfully, she remembered her promise to keep quiet and trusted that I would solve this.

'Partner, is there any way that you would be able to unlock Lilie's true memories of the event?'

'Indeed I can, however, do you think that would be for the best?'

'I do, I'm not great at dealing with repressed trauma, I can barely deal with my own,'

'Then, why not ask me to clear her of her trauma entirely?'

He made a good point, but this was something that I believed she would be better off healing herself. I had to deal with my own trauma at times, and it has made me better at handling it. Sure, it was never cured, but it got to the point where I could ignore it unless a trigger came up.

Then again, she was just a nine-year-old child, despite how she says otherwise, and she would start her own pokemon journey in a year's time. I don't think that she would be able to solve her problem within that year, and if she doesn't start her journey? She would be lonely without her friends, who would probably go off on their own journeys.

'If you could do that, that would be for the best. Do you need to come out of your ball for that?'

'Not at all. Plus, a 10ft tall pokemon such as myself would only scare her even more. Raise your hand to her head, and I'll disguise it as you doing it.'

I looked down to Lilie, who was buried firmly into my chest, trying her best to hide from the Type: Null. She wasn't crying anymore, so I decided it was time to do what Arceus suggested. I raised the palm of my right hand, which was now glowing a vivid blue, and placed it on the back of her head.

Her entire body was illuminated for a few seconds before the light died down, but her face was now an illuminated red. It seemed it worked as her fear no longer overpowered her embarrassment at burying her head into my chest area.

"Lilie, why don't you go and pet Type: Null? It is your savior after all." I urged her.

"Victoria, I don't think that would be for the best. Lilie is afraid of pokemon, much more so when it comes touching on-" Lusamine's words were cut off by Lilie's confident answer.

"Okay..."

"Lilie, are you sure about this?"

"Yes, mother."

As Lilie got off of the couch, Lusamine instantly stole her seat and reached out to hold my hand once more. Seeing that Lilie was resolute about this choice, Lusamine didn't raise any more objections, assuming that this new change in Lilie's attitude was due to my aura powers and the glow from before.

We both watched as Lilie approached the chimera pokemon with confidence she had never displayed before, and began petting it. It was a shock to her family, who would have assumed she was going to break down once she got within a few inches of the pokemon. The gentle smile that Lusamine had on her face when watching the scene was a sight I tried to burn into my mind.

"I don't know what you did, but, thank you," Lusamine whispered as she leaned on my shoulder.

"Think nothing of it. I just don't want her to be terrified of pokemon, it would only cripple her potential to grow in the future."

After a while of petting Type: Null, Lilie decided she had enough and went to go and sit back down in her seat only to find it taken by her mother. So, she went back to her original seat on the couch opposite me. I turned to Gladion, who thought he would be off of the hook, and asked,

"So, Gladion, I want you to be as honest as possible when answering my next question. Why did you steal Type: Null from the Aether Foundation? What was your motive behind that action? Because I doubt that your mother would have given you one if you had asked."

"Mother was getting too obsessed with those damn Ultra Beasts, so I decided to take away the main weapon made to combat it, and train it myself. It was being mistreated by Faba, and I couldn't stand it. Mother, you weren't like you used to be, you act cold, distant, and controlling of us now. I was scared you were going to do something crazy! I want to get the limiter off of the Type: Null, freeing them from their prison; and work together with Type: Null to protect what little family I have left. That honest enough for you?"

Naturally, he was lying at times, but I didn't call him out on it. He was just honest enough about his intentions for stealing Type: Null that I could let his half-truths slide for the time being. Lusamine was shocked at her son's admission of being afraid of her, and Lilie was silent in agreement with her brother, being too shy to admit out loud that she agreed.

"Thank you for being honest with me, Gladion. You want to remove Type: Null from its prison, right? I assume you know how you go about that, don't you?"

"No idea, I tried smashing it with a rock, but it didn't work." He answered with a shrug.

Lilie snorted at her brother's embarrassment regarding his methods to freeing Type: Null.

"Type: Null is the only thing that can remove its limiter, or cage if you prefer. It has a general distrust of humanity, and pretty much everything. You need to get it to trust you enough to where it will remove its own limiter, trusting that it wouldn't be used and toyed with by you like the ones that came before it had been. That's the only way to remove it, so just give it some time."

"So, I just need it to be my friend?"

"It's that simple. Just try not to force a friendship now that you know of the condition to allow it to be free, that will only hamper your attempts at freeing it. Let it come naturally to you both."

"You're telling me that the reason the Type: Nulls as of late were being angrier than usual, was because they didn't trust anyone in the foundation to not abuse them?" Lusamine asked, a tiny bit of anger lacing her tone.

"I'm not 'telling' you anything, you came to that conclusion yourself, darling."

"Ugh! I will deal with that when I return to Alola."

I ignored how Lusamine was frustrated at the situation at hand and looked towards Lilie. She looked a lot happier than she was a few seconds ago, something that I could understand given her situation. I offered her a gentle smile before asking,

"How have you been these past few years, Lilie? Did you make any friends?"

"It's been really fun, I have new friends called Mallow, and Lana. They're both really nice, and we do a lot of things together! Sometimes we eat together at Mallow's family's restaurant, and it tastes really nice too. I can't wait to show them that I can touch pokemon without being scared again!"

She ended her words with a big smile and stars in her eyes. However, I noticed that she hadn't spoken about the Nihilego incident. I chose not to push her to admit to having experienced such a traumatic event for her. She had her trauma 'solved' already, but I will leave it to her to tell her mother about the encounter she had with the Ultra Beast.

"They must be really good friends judging by how happy you are when speaking about them. I'm happy that you found people to be friends with apart from Hobbes. Because, as wonderful as the gentleman is, I think it's best to make friends around your own age as well. Do you have any stories that you want to share about them?"

As Lilie rattled on and on about stories between her friends, Lusamine cuddled up to me, and eagerly listened to her daughter's stories. She probably hadn't seen Lilie this excited about anything in quite a while, most likely locking herself up in her office for hours on end. Gladion also listened on beside his Type: Null. I don't think he's spent much time with Lilie lately, with most of his time being spent on his mercenary work, so he probably wants to know what's going on in her life.

"- and that's what happened last summer. I was really angry at the time, but I think I was more embarrassed than anything. Oh! I'm sorry, I've been talking for a while now, haven't I?"

"You have, but I think I speak for everyone present when I say that we didn't mind one bit. It was nice seeing you so excited again, make sure to treasure them, okay?"

"I will!" Lilie replied with a blinding smile.

"That's perfect, then. Lusamine, we can keep our chat about your life for the past 5 years for a more... private setting. I'm sure that there will be some things said that you would be more comfortable with if it were just the two of us."

"Are you asking me on a date~?"

"If a date would make you more comfortable? Perhaps, I am."

"Ew! Stop flirting in front of us!"

I decided that stopping the flirting would probably be for the best. The reunion then ended shortly after, with me promising to visit Alola in the near future. They informed me that they would be sightseeing around Galar, as they usually did for the past 5 years, and that I was free to join them if I wished. I didn't reject the offer, but I didn't accept it either. I had just returned to the pokemon world, and I didn't know if I would be free to join them or not.

- - - - - - - - - - -

After Lusamine and her family had left, I slumped back into my seat. I had a few minutes until the next group of people would be up, and I had no idea how long that reunion would go on, so I needed to get something to eat instead of the sour candy in my pocket.

I pulled out the phone Arceus made in the infinite sea for me, and I got to searching for some food to eat. Naturally, I couldn't actually cook anything right now, so I would have to abuse my imagination powers for a bit more today. I could eat anything I wanted, so I decided to go straight to the Food Wars wiki in search of a dish.

I settled on the chicken egg tempura don, which was a rice bowl with a deep-fried tempura-battered egg on top. It was starchy and had more than enough calories to satisfy my caloric intake for the day. Plus, it was from the anime Food Wars, so it was almost guaranteed to taste amazing.

As soon as I imagined it into existence and the aroma hit my nose, I was drooling. I couldn't hold back anymore and started eating away at the dish with some created cutlery. The show certainly didn't exaggerate when it came to how good the food tasted, I felt like I died for the 2nd time and was in culinary heaven.

I didn't even notice the door opening to reveal two figures as I ate away at the meal in front of me. I was too engrossed in the meal to note my old teacher's presence, something he didn't appreciate but didn't bring up. It was Mustard and his wife Honey.

"Hahahaha! To think the brat would be more interested in her food than greeting her Dojo Master after such a long time." Mustard's cheerful voice rang through my head, catching my attention.

"Now, now, dear, who knows how long it's been since her last meal." Honey said.

I swallowed my bite and looked towards the two out of the three remaining parental figures in my life. They were my mother and father when my own were dead and the other was drinking herself to death. I might not have stayed long at the Isle of Armor where the dojo is located, but they were some of the best weeks of my life. And the married couple certainly made their impression on me, even promising me that they would always view me as a family member when I cried on the final day of my training.

I took one of the tissues in my pocket and dabbed at my eyes before cleaning my stained mouth. I placed my spoon down and got the first good look at them in years. Sure, I saw them briefly when I crashed into my ugly statue, but I didn't really get to look at them. Standing from my seat, I wanted nothing more than a hug from them, but Mustard held up his hand to stop me.

"Before anything starts, Victoria, I need to get some things off of my chest.

We, along with everyone else invited inside the tower, already heard about your life beyond that wormhole as it's called, so please forgive us for invading on a private moment like that. I was against it, but the majority outvoted me when your brother Alex wanted to broadcast the meetings live to a monitor.

Thankfully, the signal was cut eventually, but it was already too late, and some intimate things were said on your end."

He took a deep breath, and took off his hat before giving me a deep bow and continuing,

"Secondly, I would like to apologize for failing you! I could have made it to the mainland in time to assist you in your battles, but I didn't, and I apologize for that. I may not have been able to help you with your wormhole problem, but I could have at least taken a load off of your shoulders before your departure from us."

Honey was just shaking her head in exasperation next to him, and I was shell-shocked to my core. But, more importantly, I was confused. He was apologizing for something that didn't matter to me. If anything, it would have taken away from my legend a little if he helped. I approached the bowing senior citizen in front of me and knelt down to his eye level.

"You don't need to apologize for that, I would have probably smacked you for getting in the way of the first satisfying fight I've ever had if you did come. But, if it means that much to you, I accept your apology. Now stand up, your old back isn't as flexible as it used to be."

"Old? Aren't you like 50 plus now with your 2nd life added on top of your previous age? You're a senior citizen yourself now!"

"Huh? What are you talking about, old man? I'm still in my early twenties!"

"Yeah, and I'm still young!"

Honey decided to step in at this point, knowing just how long both of our stubborn selves could bicker for. Neither of us ever wanted to admit defeat, or that we were wrong, so we kept bickering until we both decide to call it quits with there being no real winner. She pulled us both into a hug, which was a nostalgic experience for me.

"Calm down you two, we're here to discuss things like civil people, not bicker." she scolded us both gently.

""Yes, Honey..."" we both said at the same time.

"Good! Now, Victoria, you can go back to your meal, it doesn't look like there's much left in the bowl anyway, so it shouldn't take long. Meanwhile, we will ask you some easy yes or no questions before we get into the thick of things, to which you can answer with a nod or shake of your head."

She broke off the hug, and I did just that. There were only around a 3rd of the contents left inside of the bowl, I guess I was just that hungry. I didn't eat a full meal for the past 8 hours, so I don't think could be blamed. They both took the seats opposite me on the table, and started asking their questions.

"Were there any martial arts in that other universe that we don't have here in Galar?" Mustard asked straight away.

I nodded, and briefly pondered about making a manual with all the various martial arts from earth.

"Really? Would you be willing to teach them at the dojo on occasion?"

I shook my head in the negative, before making the manual and depositing it near Mustard. I wasn't the teaching type, with my only students being Nessa and Bea in modeling and Karate respectively. Plus, I would much rather give the position to Mustard so he would finally stop playing video games and perform his duties as the dojo master.

"Is this what I think it is?"

I nodded my head and went for another bite of my delicious meal.

"Is that creation thing a part of your aura powers?" Honey asked.

Seeing that it technically wasn't wrong, I nodded. It was tied to my aura reserves after all. There was no point in keeping it a secret from them as the only person who could call me out on my lies was Riley, and I don't think he cares enough to do so.

"Did you have any romantic partner in your life beyond the wormhole?" Honey asked, and I nearly spit the food out of my mouth.

I shook my free hand in a so-so motion. I did have a few girlfriends, but that was it. However, I knew she was asking for more serious relationships than those, which was the reasoning for my answer.

"I see... Were you sexually active?"

Now that made me choke on my food before I managed to keep it down. I wasn't expecting her to be so brash about it all. I nodded my head, seeing no reason to lie to her. It's not like I was going to make her jealous or anything by admitting to that, she was happily married.

"So the ultra-dense virgin known to the world as the hero of Galar finally lost her virginity, huh? Ufufufu~! Your fan club would be distraught if they knew."

I could tell that she was already planning on saying that to my fan club, an organization I didn't know existed, even in the past. I didn't bother preventing her from doing so, there was no point, I knew that once she found some juicy gossip she would spread it to everyone she could. Mustard finally looked up from his newfound passion and asked,

"I'm sure you now know that there are some girls that are interested in you, right? If this was the past you, I wouldn't have bothered saying this, but seeing as you aren't as big of a moron anymore when it comes to romance, I think it's okay now."

I knew he was right, and I did know that since Arceus told me I was a dense cunt. Sure, not his words exactly but it was the message behind the words. Then he told me that people were interested in the position, not a person, but people, as in plural. I had no idea how to deal with those revelations, I would probably do what I have been doing, and go with the flow, and hope for the best.

I swallowed the last tasty bite I had, and finally answered,

"Yeah, I know... I just don't know what I'm gonna do now. Reject the wonderful people that have been interested in me for years that anyone would be lucky to have as their romantic partner? Accept one and reject the rest? Roll the dice and hope that they can all be happily accepted by a moron like me who obliviously led them on? I want a lasting relationship, it's all I've wanted for over a decade, I just don't think I'm ready for one, and I don't want to hurt the girls."

I don't know why I was oversharing like that. Well, that was a lie, I do know why. They were the only parental figures I had left apart from Samson, but he would never have asked that question in the first place. So, could I truly be faulted for wanting to tell my 'parents' about my issues? I don't think I could.

"Hm~? That is quite the conundrum that you have there, sweetie. Unfortunately, we can't answer that question for you. Mustard and I fell in love at first sight when I traveled to Galar for a business trip, so I have no idea what to do in your situation."

"I never expected you to solve this problem for me, Honey."

"I know, sweetie, but it sucks that I can't help much. Although, I can offer you a bit of information to better prepare you for what's to come."

"I'll take any information I can get right now, so lay it on me."

"As I'm sure you could tell from your interactions with Lusamine, the girls are very eager to get your attention, and by proxy, your heart. In short, sweetie, they're going on the offensive."

"Oh lord..." I said with a groan.

'Yes?' Arceus said telepathically into my mind.

'Not the time, Arceus.'

'Ah, I apologize. I wanted to try a 'joke' as you humans call them, it appears that I need some more practice.'

"Hahaha! If you ever want a place to hide, you can always come to the dojo! And~ if you're bored, you can teach the students, it's a win-win for the both of us." Mustard suggested with a hearty laugh.

"Stop trying to off-load your teaching duties onto me, old man!"

"Huh?! Who's old? You pensioner!"

"Not again, you two!" Honey scolded us once more.

""Yes, Honey...""

"Seriously, you both may be old, but you still act like children most of the time," she said as if she wasn't old too.

"Why are you so insistent on having me teach at the dojo? There's got to be more to it than the training time getting in the way of your video games." I asked Mustard.

I noticed how Honey decided to look away as soon as I finished my question. At that point, I instantly knew it was because of her gossip. What I didn't know was what kind of gossip she spread to the current students with her loose lips.

"Well, some of the students have started a fan club about you in cooperation with the one from the mainland. It only formed after Honey let it slip that you trained under me, which got newer students interested, and that you were the one person who could beat me in a fight, which got the older students interested."

"Don't you dare push all the blame onto me! You kept going on~ and on~ about your perfect student, and how much better she was than the current batch, in front of the current batch of students! So, forgive me if I so kindly informed them of just who you were talking about." Honey replied in mock outrage.

"Oh~? What's this I hear, old man? The 'perfect' student who was the best you've ever had?"

"You're hearing things, maybe it's your old age acting up. The best ever student I had, was myself, as I'm self-taught." He replied with his cheeky grin that annoyed me far more than it should have.

Deciding to not engage the senile old man in front of me, in order to avoid another one of Honey's scolding sessions, I changed the topic.

"Ignoring the old man, for now, Honey, has there been any notable trainers that came out of the dojo?"

"There was that Leon kid that you recommended. However, he would have failed the initiation trials, if you hadn't informed us of his terrible sense of direction, so we took that into account when grading him. He passed the training, with some major difficulty but he did it and ended up choosing a Charmander instead of the typical Kubfu when given the option. He's now the undefeated champion of the region."

I should really spend more time looking through my memories tonight. How did I miss the fact that I ran into Leon?! Oh well, I just hope that he doesn't remember me when I come to kick his ass, later on, it would be too awkward if he did.

"So, doesn't that mean that the only notable trainers to come out of that dojo are me, and the person I brought to the dojo? As expected of myself, I truly am the second best thing to ever happen to you, old man."

"Yeah? Well, the first is me, I am the best thing to happen to me!"

A demonic aura started leaking from Honey, I think I saw the devil himself manifest behind her. Even my stupid self knew that wasn't the best thing to say.

"Is that so? Well, if you are the best thing to happen to you, you can stay by yourself tonight. That should make you happy, right?"

That must have burned hotter than a G-MAX Wildfire attack from Leon's Charizard. I then watched as Mustard instantly realized his mistake and tried to correct it,

"H-Hahaha, silly me! What I meant to say was my wonderful, beautiful, amazing, wife Honey was the best thing to happen to me. It must be my old age affecting my memory."

"Coward!"

"Tch! Damn old people, never knowing when to mind their business."

"You can't say that just after playing the 'old age' card, old man."

"Enough!"

""Yes, Honey...""

"Now, Victoria, we've kept you long enough, it was wonderful seeing you again. Please do come and visit the dojo- even if it is just for some tea and conversation -in the near future, the Kubfu's miss you a lot too."

"She's right, Victoria, it would be wonderful to have you over again."

"I can't promise anything, but I'll try my best," I said.

We all stood up, and we all came together for one lengthy hug before they finally left. It was a wonderful reunion, even though it was mostly me bantering with Mustard. I went to put my now empty bowl in my sink and slouched back into a nearby super-sized beanbag when I finished that task.

- - - - - - - - - -

I had no idea who would be next, but I doubt it would go as smoothly as my one with Mustard and Honey. I just hoped it went smoother than Lusamine's- or rather - quicker than Lusamine's. I was getting tired, and I really just wanted to sleep. But, I needed to push on a little longer. They had waited 5 years, so I think I can endure a little less sleep tonight for their sake.

Thoughts about creating some coffee or energy drinks came to my mind, but I quickly wrote those off. My body doesn't really get the benefits of caffeine and instead reacts negatively towards it, so I decided to just push through on willpower alone. It would be hard, but I could do it. As my thoughts were a mess I also realized that I didn't check if Gladion could use aura. Oh well, I'll do that at a later date.

I was brought out of my thoughts by knocking on the door once more, I called for them to enter, and it wasn't who I was expecting so soon. It was a duo of people, my father-in-law, Samson Oak, and his cousin, Samuel Oak. Things were a bit awkward between me and Samson, and as a result of that I never really called him 'dad' or any other paternal names, but I could overlook that for today.

I gave them both a big smile and greeted them,

"It's great to see you both again, dad, Samuel. Come, take a seat." I gestured to the beanbags in front of me.

"It's a pleasure to have you amongst us once more, Victoria, you were sorely missed." Samuel greeted me before taking his seat.

"I couldn't have said it better." Samson followed up.

"Do either of you want something to drink? I'm unsure if there were refreshments available in the atrium." I asked.

"What kind of drink are you offering?"

"Well, it's been a long day for everyone, I'm sure, so why not have a glass of wine? If that isn't to your taste, another alcoholic drink could be done too."

"Hahaha! I like how you think, Victoria. I can certainly go for a glass after this morning, what about you Samuel?" Samson asked his cousin.

"I don't really drink, plus, someone will need to be sober to take you to the hotel room later today. The last thing I want is to be tipsy in front of my grandson, he wouldn't ever let me live it down."

I imagined up an aged red wine for the occasion along with two glasses, much to the present two's wide-eyed shock, and poured the contents of the wine bottle into the glasses after getting a satisfying 'pop' of the cork being unscrewed. After Samson took the glass, I took my own and sipped on it, waiting for them to break the ice.

"Now that you have your drinks, can you care to explain just where that wine bottle came from?" Samuel curiously asked.

"You know what aura is, right? I'm sure I explained it to you before."

"You said it was 'life energy', right?"

"Yep~! So, what I just did now was give 'life' to my imagination, and create the wine." I explained with a shrug of my shoulders.

"Fascinating, and you were always able to do this?" Samuel asked.

"Not always, I had to get really creative, and have big enough aura reserves to be able to do it. I doubt that anyone other than myself would be able to use the technique in the first place."

"I see, that's a shame, but it's probably for the best. If any of the people that were attuned to aura could perform such a feat then it would be a very precarious situation." Samuel said with a sigh of relief.

"You're right there, Samuel. Just imagine one of the villainous organizations with an aura user? I shudder just thinking of the possibilities." Samson followed up.

"It would end up becoming a matter of international security, that's for sure."

"Mhm!" I agreed with a hum as I took another sip of my wine.

I sat back in my beanbag and watched as the two old men in front of me talking about all the positive aspects of my imagination powers. It was one of the main reasons I brought it up, so I could hear them theorize and give me ideas. I briefly wondered if I would be able to implement cannabis in the world of pokemon as a business venture. Eventually, they stopped their theorizing and Samson decided to ask me a question,

"Victoria, what was that pokemon that was with you when you crash-landed? Does this mean you're finally going on your pokemon journey?"

"Yes, I have to admit I'm very curious too. Will you be coming to Kanto for the pokemon league in a year's time?" Samuel asked.

Now that got me into a corner. I didn't really want to reveal Arceus' presence, but he decided it was best if he crash-landed with me! I don't know why I was hoping that nobody would notice the white and gold 10ft tall pokemon next to me. So, I decided to answer one of the questions, and hope that they forgot about the other one.

"Indeed, I am. Perhaps I could even give Gary a run for his money when he starts his journey."

"Hahaha! That would be wonderful! The only rival I can see him having would be Delia's boy, but he doesn't seem like he would take his training as seriously as my grandson would."

"Where is Gary anyway, Samuel?"

"Ahh, he went sightseeing around the city with Gladion earlier."

Gary and Gladion are friends now? Just what in the fuck is happening today. I decided to ignore that minor revelation in favor of trying to fish for information on Delia's mysterious husband.

"Delia has a kid? Who did she hitch up with to do that?"

"Now, Victoria, don't you try and change the subject. What was that pokemon that landed next to you?" Samson asked once more.

Alright, keep your damn secrets pokemon world! But, I will eventually find out who boned Ash's mom, and nothing will stop me! I will even catch a Celebi for some time travel shenanigans if I have to!

Just as I wasn't going to give up on my investigation on who fucked Ash's mom, the professor duo in front of me wasn't going to give up on wanting to know more about the mysterious pokemon that was seen next to me. So, I relented, and took Arceus' luxury ball out of my pocket, and sent him out.

"Come on out, Arceus!"

"A luxury ball?" Samuel said probably surprised that my first pokemon was in a rather expensive pokeball.

And just like that, Arceus' rather majestic appearance was on show once more. Samuel and Samson both activated their Rotom-Dex and had them scan the diety once more.

[[Arceus, the alpha pokemon.

It is told in mythology that this pokemon emerged from an egg before the universe even existed, and created all there is in the universe with its 1000 hands.]]

As the Rotom-Dex listed off the pokedex entry on Arceus, he looked rather smug. I had no idea why he was so smug, he doesn't even have hands, let alone 1000 of them! Damn pokedex entries are still completely filled with unreliable information.

"You expected another pokemon, but it was I, Arceus!" Arceus said.

"Have you been reading my mind?" I asked the equine creature.

"Yes, I have. I wanted to know how I should introduce myself to mortals, and this example came up. How did I do?" He replied..

"Perfectly, but never do that again, keep it for special occasions."

"I see.. I'll keep that in mind, partner."

Was this a Veldora situation where a powerful person in the world has been reading my mind and is slowly turning into a weeb? As fun as that would be, I would prefer it if he didn't just start firing off Kamehamehas at unsuspecting pokemon. But, if it got him to trust me and find me worthy quicker, then I can stomach the inevitable Kamehameha barrage.

"Victoria... Is that a talking pokemon?" Samson asked me.

"Yep~! But, I didn't think that would be what you focused on, dad."

"I have to agree with her, Samson. What I want to ask is, how did you manage to catch the creator of the universe?" Samuel asked.

"Well, we are best friends, that's how."

"That was not the answer I wanted..." Samuel facepalmed.

"I selfishly requested that she take me on as her pokemon, Samuel Oak. I wished to see the world from a typical pokemon's viewpoint, and she granted that wish of mine." Arceus explained.

"I see... that makes perfect sense..." he said in a tone laced with sarcasm.

"Well, that's how it happened, Samuel. There's no point in lying to you, I get nothing from it." I reasoned with the professor.

"I guess I'll just have to believe it then..." he relented.

"Well, at least you've chosen a strong pokemon to start with," Samson added.

"Thanks! Now, do you have any other questions?" I asked before sending Arceus back into his ball.

"I did, but I seemed to have forgotten them out of shock. Do you have any for us?" Samuel asked.

"Yeah, I do. What has been happening while I was gone on Alola, dad?"

"A lot has happened. My Eggsecute evolved into an Exeggutor, the Alolan variant of Exeggutor specifically. Then there's this Team Skull group that has set up shop on Alola. They don't really do anything, but they're pretty noisy.

Lusamine also kept coming over to the lab to ask questions about you and even convinced her children that I was their grandfather. I called up your brothers to make sure that everyone was on the same page, so unless you secretly got married to her, she has been lying to her children."

The only silver lining of that information was that Lily and Gladion didn't call me maternal names during our meeting, so she probably hasn't claimed that we were together in front of them. It would have left me in an uncomfortable position if she did. I downed the rest of my glass, and answered his worries,

"I didn't get married to anyone. If I did? You would have been one of the first people invited."

"I see... so it's one of those situations, huh?"

I ignored his revelations on how Lusamine was only doing that to get an 'upper hand' on her competition. Instead, I opted to pour myself another glass of wine. I needed to be careful, otherwise, I might slip down the slippery slope of alcoholism once more. After taking a sip of my wine, I began another conversation because drinking in silence is depressing.

We talked for around 15 minutes about various topics whether it was research, family, or random pokemon things. Samuel asked me about the universe without pokemon, to which I just gave him a thick book on earth with promising to give him some more reading material at a later date. He promised, in turn, to keep everything a secret, even though Oleana had already made him and everyone else present sign an NDA, and give me assistance during my journey in Kanto when it happens.

After some pleasant conversation, with the professor duo getting more and more fascinated with earth, the meeting finally came to an end. I wanted to see them out, but I didn't want to move from my beanbag. It had already conformed to the shape of my body, and I didn't want to mess it up. Samuel did have to support my Samson as he walked, he was absolutely wasted.

- - - - - - - - - - - - -

I covered the wine bottle in an aura bubble before floating the empty bottle over to the nearby trashcan. I was getting a little tipsy myself, so I chose not to make any more wine. I just hoped that whoever came in next wouldn't notice my condition, and if they did, they wouldn't bring it up.

This time I didn't even get the chance to call the next group in, because they didn't knock. Before I could even blink I felt something latch itself onto me. Initially, I thought it was Bea, but I noticed the far larger assets of the person pressing into my own, so I ruled that out. The vivid orange hair also helped in ruling Bea out of the equation.

"I missed you!" Sonia wailed right next to my ears, making me flinch at the volume.

"I missed you too, Sonia," I said as I hugged her back.

Well, it looks like this article of clothing will be drenched too, how nice. I don't have an undershirt on as well, so I will have to endure the damp feeling on my shoulder until I can change it later tonight. As I comforted the crying girl who was firmly attaching herself to my body, I saw Magnolia enter.

"Damn it, girl. You couldn't have even waited for your dear old grandmother before barging in?"

"I didn't mean to, gran! You were just walking so slow~."

"Oh, yes, forgive me for not sprinting to the room unlike you."

Even while talking to her grandmother, Sonia still remained firmly attached to me. However, I could see that she was now blushing up a storm as her grandmother revealed just how eager she was to meet me. I eventually noted that her shampoo smelt like strawberries, it was nice. But, I couldn't admire the scent for long as I had to greet the elderly woman who had just walked in with a Yamper in tow.

"How do you look the exact same as 5 years ago, Professor?" I couldn't help but ask.

"I don't want to hear flattery from someone who managed to look even younger after all these years. Nonetheless, It's a pleasure to see you again, Victoria."

"No, the pleasure's all mine, Professor."

"I apologize about Sonia, she really missed you. I didn't know she missed you enough to turn into a Shellder and clamp herself onto you."

"Gran~! Stop making fun of me."

"A pretty girl hugging me is never a problem, so there's no need to apologize." I quipped.

"Pretty..." Sonia began murmuring to herself with a small smile.

"As nice as you two flirting with each other is, I believe we are here for some more important matters."

"Yes, we are. So, do you have any questions for me?" I asked.

"As it appears that Sonia is too busy marking you with her scent-"

"Huh?" Sonia said absentmindedly, unknowingly proving Magnolia's point.

"I guess it falls on to me to ask the questions. Well, let's start with the big one, are you going to be okay?" The elderly professor asked.

The one singular question that I so desperately wanted to avoid, because I had no idea what the answer is. Will I be okay?

Who knows, because I certainly don't. I just got yeeted here by Arceus from the earth like an hour ago, so it's far too soon to be judging anything. I can almost guarantee that I will be better than I was during my stay on earth, mainly due to the lack of a goddess fucking with me constantly, and the addition of wishes, but that's my only guarantee today.

"I'm not sure, but I will be better than I was, that's all I can promise you right now, Professor."

Sonia looked a tad worried at my admission but settled for squeezing me tighter as I did earlier to Lusamine's hand. Magnolia let out a sigh and answered in resignation,

"I suppose that's the best I can ask for at the minute. I'm unsure if you remember, but I am a licensed therapist, so if you need to talk about things, my door will always be open, dear." She kindly offered.

I had faith in her professionalism, so I seriously thought about her offer. Back on earth, my therapists weren't the best, I would even go as far as to call them garbage. So, I was curious about what it would be like to have a good therapist for once, so I accepted her offer,

"Thank you, Professor, I will keep that in mind."

As Magnolia began trying to think of her next question, I tried to get a better look at the situation at hand. Sonia was now sitting on my lap with Yamper sitting on her lap. Yamper was happily having its fur scratched by its trainer if its wagging tail was a valid indicator towards the canine pokemon's enjoyment. Sonia was leaning against my body and was actively cuddling against me with her head planted against my breasts. I think I heard a content sigh coming from her at random intervals.

I was comfortable, even with the added weight, so I didn't bother voicing any complaints, because there weren't any. However, I did wish that she wouldn't be nuzzling into my breasts, though, but I didn't care that~ much. It was pleasant being wanted rather than avoided by people, a simple but already big change to my life within this short period of time. I reached up and placed the palm of my hand on top of Sonia's head and began patting her gently.

"In this other universe was there Dynamax energy, or an energy similar?" Magnolia asked.

"Not that I know of, there was something similar to Dynamax energy, but it was in a fictional setting called the 'Pym particle'. It increases the size of things it's exposed to, and could also decrease the size of things."

"Interesting, would you mind supplying me with a book on the topic like you've done for Mustard and those martial arts?"

"I can give you all the information I have on it, but there's not enough for an entire book."

"Thank you, that would be more than enough for me, I'm simply hoping to glean some more information on the phenomenon from a similar thing," she replied gratefully.

I created just that, it was only a singular page, but she was more than happy enough with the information. I debated whether or not to give her some information on Eternatus and the darkest day, before ultimately deciding not to. If I was going to do that, I would like to wait for a little, because that would only lead to a longer Q&A session.

"Do you have any other questions for me, Professor?"

"Indeed, I do. However, they can wait for a time when people aren't waiting to see you, dear. I would feel bad if I held you longer than needed today, today must have been tiring."

"Hahaha! You can't imagine it, the last time I've ever felt remotely this tired was the night we finished the Dynamax bands."

"Speaking of Dynamax bands, I hope that you will be able to keep that brother of yours in line. That Oleana girl- that always used to follow you around like a lost Litten -has done an admirable job at preventing him from growing, but she hasn't stopped him. He's playing a very dangerous game, Victoria, and I don't want to have the general public put at risk because of it." Magnolia said in a grave tone.

"I know more than anyone just what the consequences of his actions are, Magnolia. However, I need him to go through with his plans. But, only because I will be there to prevent it in the future, and then have a reason to boot him from the company. With all the information I've managed to glean from my short time back, it sounds like my brother has just been riding on mine and Oleana's success/coat tails for quite a while."

"It seems that the merciless businesswoman I knew all those years ago is still there and present inside you." She replied with a mirthful chuckle.

We continued making small talk for a few minutes, and it was a peaceful atmosphere. The room didn't feel like it was an awkward reunion between friends, but more of a family gathering around the fireplace on a cold winter's night. In short, it was very cozy. After we talked for a few minutes, Sonia finally spoke up and asked what was on her mind,

"Victoria, d-did you have any girlfriends or boyfriends in that other universe?"

I saw Magnolia shaking her head at the question. Clearly, the only person oblivious of Sonia's feelings towards me was my stupid past self. It was painfully obvious why she asked that question, the quiet voice in which she did it didn't help either. But, I didn't lie to her.

"I had a few girlfriends over there when I was still a teenager, they never lasted long..."

"... I'm sorry, I shouldn't have asked that."

Sensing that she was about to run away, I held her tightly. I wasn't about to be in a shitty TV drama where I would have to chase after a crying girl, I'm too tired for that right now. Plus, I didn't care that she asked that question as much as she think I did. Sure, it was unpleasant to remember all the break-up texts and headstones, but Sonia had no way of knowing that information beforehand.

"It's fine, Sonia, I'm fine. You just wanted to ask a question that was bothering you, right?"

I could only tell that she nodded from the way her ponytail bobbed up and down, but I noted the answer before continuing,

"See? There's nothing wrong with that. Now, do you have anything else you want to ask me?"

"Not really, well, there is something..."

"Oh~? And that 'something' is?"

I noticed how Magnolia was wary of where this conversation was heading, which was never a good sign. The last time she had that look in her eye was before Alex suggested commercializing the Dynamax bands amongst other things.

"... Do you want to take a little tour of Galar with me? I can show you everything that's changed since you were gone."

Another sightseeing date?! Do the girls have a group chat where they discuss what date to ask me out on?

"That sounds wonderful," I replied with a smile.

I didn't even know what I was saying at this point, but going with the flow always worked out. I just hoped that we didn't cross paths with Lusamine and her family when we decide to sightsee. God, that would be awkward.

"Alright! It's a date! Wait-No-Uhm-Uhh... gran, help."

"You got yourself into this mess, girl, I'm not helping you out of it," came Magnolia's quick reply.

I couldn't stop a yawn that formed in my throat from coming out. I was so fucking exhausted. I had spent 20 hours awake today due to the previous scandal, and now I've been awake for who knows how long talking. I just wanted to sleep.

"I guess I was right when I said it was a tiring day for you. Do you want me to inform Oleana about your fatigue?" Magnolia asked.

"That would probably be for the best. I don't even know where I'm gonna sleep tonight, I might just take this beanbag as my temporary bed tonight."

"Well, if you can't find a place to rest, I have a spare room in my house that you can borrow until you get back on your feet again." the elderly professor offered.

"I might just end up taking you up on that offer, Professor. If I can't find a place myself, do you have a spare key on you?" I asked.

"Sadly, I do not. There is, however, a spare key under one of the plant pots near the front door, you can just use that one to let yourself in."

"I'll do just that then, thank you for the kind offer in any case."

She then stood up and left the room with an overexcitable Yamper and a hesitant Sonia in tow. I stood up and out of my beanbag chair prison with great difficulty, and put everything back to where it was before I entered. I didn't need to do that, because my company almost 100% hires people to clean up and organize things, but it felt wrong leaving my mess out in the open like that.

- - - - - - - - - - -

I heard some fussing downstairs, probably because I wasn't doing any more meetings for today. It would probably be for the best if I save my other meetings/reunions with my brothers and other people until tomorrow. I didn't want to pass out mid-reunion.

After the hustle and bustle downstairs quieted down, Oleana opened the door to the lounge that I was in once again. As usual, she started off slowly before opening it quicker upon locating where I was. She gave me a heartwarming smile when we locked eyes that was permanently burned into my memory forever, before speaking,

"I was informed by Professor Magnolia that you were tired, ma'am, so I decided it was best to postpone any more meetings until tomorrow. I apologize if that's too soon, but they simply wouldn't leave otherwise."

"It is too soon, but as long as you didn't specify a time for tomorrow, then everything should be fine. Also, it's just us now, Oleana, please refer to me as Victoria." I requested.

"Yes, ma- Victoria. I didn't specify a time tomorrow, as I didn't know when would be best for you."

That was perfect, it gave me an entire morning to get back into the swing of things. Naturally, I would have preferred more time, but it was the best I was going to get. I began searching through my memories in search of any housing that my past self might still own, before finding one.

"Oleana, is the main Wyndon mansion still under my name? I'm in need of somewhere to stay for the night, and I am unsure of which properties are still under my ownership." I asked.

"The mansion is indeed under your ownership, I hope you can forgive me, but I have been living there for some time now. I can move out if you wish."

"That's good to hear, I was worried about where I would be sleeping for tonight, I might have had to even take Magnolia up on the offer of her spare room. There's no need for you to move out, Oleana, the house is far too big for one person, and it would be nice to have some company in any case."

"You're still as kind as always, Victoria."

"Only to those who deserve kindness, and you, Oleana, most certainly do."

"Thank you."

Her words may have been short, but she was blinking back tears of joy. I don't know how much stress she's been put under, but I can imagine it's been a lot. CEOs don't get much rest, especially one running a company as large as Macro Cosmos. I guess she was happy that she got praised, that her hard work was finally 'rewarded'.

"Do you have any more duties for today, or will you be fine coming home with me now?"

Home, a word that felt weird rolling off of my tongue. I hadn't ever had to deal with having a home, and not a lonely building that I just so happen to take residence in for my time on earth. Oleana didn't allow me long to stew in my thoughts for long, though,

"No, I do not. Today was a day off for the company, and I had finished my duties yesterday, so I could relax as well. Let's go home."

I grabbed my discarded tear-stained article of clothing and made sure I didn't leave anything behind, before I walked up to Oleana, and linked our arms together. She was surprised by the action but didn't pull away, in fact, she leaned into me as we walked to the exit together.

After explaining that I was currently broke, she called for a Corvinight Taxi, where we sat in comfortable silence, enjoying each other's presence alone as we watched the city from above. Sure, the driver was ecstatic upon seeing me, claiming that I saved his Rookidee once, but after a signature, he calmed down and left us in peace.

As we landed in front of the mansion, which was much bigger than my memories let on, we approached the front door hand-in-hand. Just before I could open the door, the doors were opened by the maids present, and Oleana said some words that were very important to her,

"I've been wanting to say this for the past 5 long years, and now I finally can. Victoria... welcome home."

"Thank you, Oleana, I certainly missed this place. But, more importantly, I missed the people, including you."

"I-I see..."

While she turned into a blushing mess, I searched through my memories once more to locate my old bedroom. After doing so, I tugged Oleana along with me, hoping that in the case that I remember wrongly, she would correct me. Reaching the door, I opened it and was met with the most wonderful sight, a bed.

It was a tad different from my memories, but I chalked that down to Oleana sleeping in here on occasion. I detached myself from Oleana and went towards the en-suite bathroom to get changed into some sleepwear. I was on the verge of passing out, and there was no way I was going to last for another conversation or two.

I emerged from the bathroom in a light blue negligee after brushing my teeth with some created toothpaste and a toothbrush. I ignored the now blushing Oleana, whose face now resembled the same color as a stop sign, and slipped under the covers.

As soon as my body hit the mattress I was almost already taken by the comforting sensation, but I still needed to set my pokeballs and phone aside in the bedside drawer. I was going to try and keep my pocket dimension a secret, as it wasn't as easily explained away as imagination manifestation was.

"C-Can I rest here tonight, Victoria? I just want to make sure that you are still here when I wake up, and that this isn't just a dream."

She had done so much for me, so I felt bad about rejecting her. However, I then remembered that I had people in my bed who had done far less for me. So, I relented and allowed her this small comfort.

"Of course! However, I would like to ask in return that if I am having a nightmare, that you please wouldn't try to wake me up, nor speak of anything I may say in my slumber."

I didn't want any awkward morning breakfast where she would try to be my therapist, it would be so embarrassing for me. Thankfully for me, she agreed in a heartbeat. After she got changed into a rather sexy wine-red negligee of her own, she joined me under the covers where she asked,

"I'm sorry for overstepping any boundaries, but would you mind if I hug you? I typically have a pillow to hug, but it would be too large for a bed with two people on it."

Not in the mood to tease the already blushing woman in front of me, I simply agreed and initiated the hug. I drifted off first, but not before I felt something press against my lips. I was far too tired to confront her on such a thing, so I just let it be and let myself drift off into unconsciousness. I was far too tired for any of it, but I did manage to work a tiny smile in before I fully drifted off.