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Rescue leader Mike cleared his throat as he stood in front of the many Rescuers, Rogues, and Merchants before him. He could glimpse Merchant leader PK in the corner of his eye, working with Doctor Quaak and the other Tao Village doctors on possibilities of remedies for Jasmine, and Rogue leader Devonshire seemed to have gone to the back of the crowd, his features becoming dark and passive as he thought over the group’s next step.

“Everyone! Can I have your attention please?” The Charmeleon’s voice seemed to have deepened a bit from when he was a Charmander, and it surprised him a bit. However, the tone of respect and camaraderie held in his voice had not changed at all, and everyone silenced upon hearing it. Mike had to keep himself from grinning at the fact that neither PK nor Devonshire acknowledged the speech he was going to give...that he had to give, both of obligation to his morals and because he was the only of the three leaders truly able to use their time to give a speech.

Those were the aspects of teamwork so many spoke of, he supposed. They never seemed prevalent at first, especially with such an odd group of leaders, but somehow it seemed they always managed to pull it all together. After all, they h--

“They’re listening, boy,” said a impatient voice from beside him, interrupting his train of thought. Grand Master Kec gave him a small glare, and motioned towards the teams in front of them. Seeing no reaction from Mike at first, as the Charmeleon was still recovering, he prodded at the Fire Pokemon with his staff. “Go on, say it loud for all yer friends.”

Mike rubbed his side with his hand and sighed, the appreciative moment gone. “Yes, sir...”

His voice shifted into a more upbeat and fulfilling tone as he took on his leadership deftly. “Well, everyone! I know we're in a strange situation here. I know everyone's...”

He motioned with his hands as he struggled to find the right words. “...bleak, but we all should brighten up! We'll get back to our friends, family, and loved ones. Count on it! But...” He thought a bit before finding his voice once more. “I guess it wouldn't really be bad to write some letters to them? I, uh...”

“Well, it certainly can’t hurt, can it?” said Grand Kec, irritability still in his voice. This time, though, it had a hint of remorse for the teams and Mike, well-hidden by the Kecleon’s practiced tongue. “These letters’ll be here so long as Foxy does his job.”

A sly grin crossed over his face. “And Foxy’s great at doin’ his job.”

Mike felt nervous perspiration drip down his front as he thought of the “great job” Callahan continued to do in the present. “Oh, yeah, I guess that's the guarantee.” The elderly Kecleon’s helpful remarks were well intended, but were starting to get on his nerves a little bit. His tail flame grew a few inches in a slightly more noticeable manner, startling the Charmeleon.

You have to keep your anger in check, Mike, he thought to himself with remorse. Being a Charmeleon will be more work than you set out for. Obviously my ancestors before me knew how to handle it, so let’s prove to them just how strong you can be.

“What a great idea!” Mike felt himself say. Even though it didn’t nearly match how he actually felt, he still wanted the Grand Kec to feel useful in this situation. “You're so prepared!”

The grin never left Grand Kec’s face. “Course it’s a great idea, it’s my idea.”

Blood rushed to Mike’s face faster than a Ninjask could ever have. “Yes!”

He decided to turn to his audience, the purpose of the speech slowly coming back to him. “Well, worry or not, I think it's a good idea to write a letter! It'll definitely get there, and you can feel well in that your others will know you're safe too!” The color left his face as his mind slowly drifted off elsewhere. His mouth spoke for him, and he almost began to speak subconsciously as thoughts of his own friends, family, and guild mates came back to him.

I have to keep hope, concluded Mike. If I don’t, these Pokemon very well could lose theirs, as well as their unity. And once that happens...we won’t have just one problem on our hands, but many.

************************************************************************************
Splasher half-heard the discussion between the two leaders - he was off in the town itself rather than the center, walking amidst the mostly quiet streets in the early afternoon. The sepia cottages lined along the sides of the street he walked on seemed much more soft than those he remembered from the little time he had spent in Tao thus far, and he was reminded of the types of residence back in Ambera, his and his partner’s homeland.

He chuckled to himself mentally, but with a hint of saddened realization. I’ve never liked how Firequil always tends to shut himself away from others...now, it looks like I’m doing the same. He found himself enjoying the quiet reclusiveness of the town, and it he couldn’t help but feel that the village spoke quiet wonders as he looked at the basic architecture and the way the town was made together.

Passing by a small fountain as he walked through the alleyways and rows, Splasher was reminded of the present Tao - while it seemed both were at war, this Tao seemed to have a sense of peace about it that the present village lacked. How did this town go from this into what it is like in the present?

Splasher contemplated over this deeply, finding himself genuinely curious. He looked toward the sky, watching the sun begin to rise in the distance. Why would a town like this grow into what was in present day Tao? It seemed to him that the peace within the village was well-forgotten in the present Tao, especially with so many recent disasters and the rebuilding of not just the village, but the entire region.

He realized that something similar had happened back in Ambera, but yet not the same - although the chaos here was different, and in many way much more catastrophic and horrible, the strength that emanated from the efforts of the Pokemon in both Tao and Ambera was the same. Both resembled the idea of how strength came from love and compassion towards one another, especially under duress.

Although Tao itself has worn down, the strength these villagers show is still seen in the efforts these guildmasters are making for their friends. Splasher sighed. I guess I still have a lot more to learn about Tao...and about perspective.

He came across a pathway back into the center of town. He decided to stop and take a moment to fully absorb his surroundings, realizing that he may or may not need to familiarize himself with them soon enough. Walking over towards the grass beside the road, he sat down and simply breathed in the spicy air, filled with the many scents of lush life and flowers.

His eyes first fell on the street he was just walking on; the stone bordering the road was designed to make the dirt on the road clearly distinguishable in the night, and the thought crossed his mind as to how many travelers Tao received every day. The grass on the ground nearby was fresh and matted, giving vivid life to the gentle cottages that seemed to bunch around the center of the village. The layout was almost as if a large raindrop had dropped onto the ground and the resulting splatters formed housing and shops, which seemed odd to Splasher considering that the village had been there for quite some time.

Back where he had been a few steps ago, the dirt road had come to a circlet where a small fountain rested. Made of some sort of milky stone, it warmly contrasted the clear water that danced over it. It seemed one of the only landmarks of the village, and Splasher was surprised he had missed it when he walked by it.

I guess I’m just too distracted to really notice much right now, Splasher realized. Too much has happened, and in so little time...

Standing up, he heard the voices of the leaders echoing back to him again through the streets.

“...won’t let her die.” It sounded distinctly like Mike, and the rage in his voice was just as evident.

“Everyone dies, boy.” That was the Grand Kec. “Just sometimes Lady Lethe doesn’t come right as quick as she was sposed ta.”

Splasher stopped walking forward, and he wondered if perhaps there had been some sort of circumstance in Micle’s life that would bring him to think so pessimistically, and he felt a bit of sympathy for the Grand Kecleon.

But the Mudkip also found himself struck by the honesty in the Merchant’s voice, and his thoughts tumbled without a mental filter. ...when I die, will it feel as long as Grand Kec says it might be?...will my new friends die that way? All I want now is to see Firequil again someday...

He sighed. This whole time travel situation had been hard on all of the teams, especially those that he knew closely or recognized from their works in the guild. He saw friendships fracture and break apart, and even those who were faring the best were still lost somewhat in remorse.

He himself could only seem to think about how Firequil was doing with all of this going on. I’m sure he’s doing just fine, thought Splasher to himself. There’s no need to worry...after all, we’ve faced worse together, haven’t we?

The Mudkip found himself surprised by how naturally it came for him to refer to Firequil and himself as a group. A tear dropped from his eyes, let loose by an unnatural vulnerability that Splasher felt so strongly.

But we aren’t together right now...and I need to be strong for him. Mourning something I still have yet to lose is just a waste of time. I know I’ll get back to him sometime...I just don’t like how I don’t know when that will be.

He took a deep sigh. He turned his head around, and behind him the last bit of the speech finished itself, and the Rescuers, Merchants, and Rogues all broke up into cheer. Hearing the voices of the two leaders, as well as the scramble of the other rescue teams woke Splasher up from his reverie. He was reminded of the proposition that Mike had proposed to the group at the beginning of his speech.

Writing a letter...it’s been so long since I’ve really taken the time to do that, thought the Mudkip to himself. Luckily Firequil taught me how to write, and I still remember after being thrown about in time.

Refreshing himself mentally, Splasher ambled back to the center of town, where several various Pokemon were running amuck. They were all trying to find someone who knew how to write up a letter, and Splasher hesitated before approaching the chaos in front of him. He heard the voice of Mike calling out from the center again, and all the running ceased.

“I forgot to mention this...but for those of you who don’t know how to write, I’m sure that there are several others here who wouldn’t mind doing so for you. We’re all in this situation together, so let’s put aside our differences and send some letters!”

A cheer erupted from the other Pokemon, and Splasher’s face twitched with nervousness.

I’m not so sure this is the best idea...I’m more afraid I’ll get trampled by a lone Numel than encouraged to help other write their letters.

His reluctance washed away as he reminded himself of who he was, and what he was here for really. I’m a Rescuer now. It’s my duty to help these Pokemon out, even if it’s only a request.

Firequil would put his fears aside for the greater good. So I will too.

He approached the most lost looking Pokemon he could find, trying to look as inconspicuous as possible.

“Excuse me, sir. Do you maybe need help with getting a letter written to your partner?”

The Hoppip in front of him jumped up sporadically, and Splasher yelped in surprise.

“Oh, I’m s-so sorry!” chimed the Hoppip, who blushed when he saw the Mudkip. “I th-thought you might be D-Devonshire again.” A sigh of relief passed over his face, and a smile appeared on his face. “I-I...”

“You don’t have to say anything,” Splasher said. “I can understand being afraid of Devonshire, so no worries! My name’s Splasher. What’s your name?”

“Drift,” muttered the Hoppip. “I’m not used to being by myself...usually Chime’s here with me...”

“Is Chime your partner’s name?”

“Y-yes...a Minccino. She and I are very close friends...”

“Well, that’s certainly a good thing,” said Splasher. “I’ve seen a few partnerships that aren’t quite like that.”

The Hoppip couldn’t help but chuckle lightly, his laugh sounding like a gentle wind. “I know...I’m really lucky. She helps me, well, to be braver.”

“I understand completely, although I’d probably be Chime in this situation,” added Splasher thoughtfully. A sheepish grin came over him. “Usually I’m the one having to be out there and going about with my partner. It’s not that he can’t do it himself, but he usually thinks too much to act on his thoughts.”

Splasher concluded this last statement with a thought on remorse. “I miss him a lot..which is why I came over to ask you if you wanted help writing a letter to Chime.”

“Oh, t-thanks...that’s very nice of you, but I’ve already written my letter,” Drift whispered. His face dropped. “I hope that doesn’t cause you too much trouble...”

Splasher quickly tried to reassure the Hoppip. “No, no! This wasn’t any trouble at all. Besides, I’m still somewhat new to Tao and its residents, so no problem. Thank you for letting me know.”

After having said goodbye to a new friend, Splasher walked off with a tired look on his face. However, keeping in persistence, he found another Pokemon looking lost among the rest. He walked over a little more confidently in hopes that a bolder approach might get him better results.

This Pokemon was a Gastly, seeming to rest suspended in the air as most others skirted around it just to avoid its presence. Splasher felt a bit of pity for the guy, but he also knew that Gastly’s don’t have arms...and therefore, it’d need his help in writing.

“Hey there! My name’s Splasher - what’s yours?”

The Gastly whirled around, its poisonous mist covering Splasher. He found himself coughing vehemently, and he created a small, hollow orb of water around his face to keep the gas from entering his body.

“Sorry,” said the Gastly, its words hissing from its mouth like gas escaping from a pipe. “It’s instinctive...usually Pokemon don’t approach me, and if they do it’s because they want something from me.”

Splasher spit the water out from his head, taking a deep breath for good measure. “It’s alright...I understand being protective of yourself, especially with all that’s been going on lately. How’ve you been faring?”

The Gastly looked Splasher in the eyes, and the Mudkip couldn’t help but flinch at the intensity behind the Pokemon’s light glare. “I’m holding my own...all things considered.” The Gastly looked away. “My name’s Kip.”

“Mine’s Splasher - I was curious if you needed help writing a letter to your partner.”

The Gastly’s face lit up, its normally hard gaze softened by a gentleness that Splasher didn’t usually associate with the Ghost Pokemon. “Would you? I have an awful lot I’d like to say...”

Splasher forced a grin. “I’m sure it isn’t that bad. Besides, I doubt there are many others who would be willing to help you out.”

“...good point. I have a paper right here. Shall we start?”

************************************************************************************

Splasher finished the last word on the page just as the sun began its descent . His right paw felt very tight and cramped as he dropped the finished letter into the special box that the Grand Kec had designated for the letters.

“Thank you so much, Splasher!” exclaimed Kip, a sigh of relief on his face.

“My pleasure, Kip. See you around!”

He turned his back to the Ghost Pokemon, his face growing more and more tired and angry as he walked further down into the streets of Tao towards the temporary residence he’d be staying in for the night.

I’ve only talked to two Pokemon...and I’m already feeling exhausted. This is when Firequil would lift my spirits up with some insightful idea about philosophy or something...

With his head down, the Mudkip didn’t notice until too late that he was quickly approaching another Pokemon. His head rammed into its side, and it emitted a yelp of surprise.

Splasher’s eyes widened, all thoughts of exhaustion gone. “Oh, I’m so sorry about that! I hope I didn’t hurt you or anything.”

The eyes of the shiny Vulpix he bumped into were aglow with fire, but the flames quickly vanished as her anger dissipated. “It’s...alright. I wasn’t really paying attention either, so don’t worry about it.”

Splasher let go of his breath. “I guess we’re all in the same waters this time around, in more ways than one. Thanks for understanding. My name is Splasher, by the way.”

“My name’s Clarica,” the Vulpix said dispassionately. “You seem extremely tired.”

“That’s because I am,” Splasher muttered. “I helped a Gastly write an extremely lengthy letter to his partner, and a very shy Hoppip I went to talk to earlier needed some calming down. There’s just so much to do...”

“It’s really not too bad, considering the things we done before,” Clarica added. “I have a feeling it’s more than that.”

Splasher gave her a small glare. “I really think I just need some sleep.”

“What I really think you need is someone to talk to. I was just heading to the Rescuer base myself for the night, so I’ve got all the time in the world.”

Splasher sighed. “You’re not going to let me off, are you?...now I know why Firequil is so aggravated when I’m persistent.”

“I’m guessing that Firequil’s your partner?”

Splasher smiled at the words, similar to those he had spoken earlier to the young Hoppip, Drift. “Yes...and a very good friend.”

Clarica led him to the Rescuer residence as the two of them discussed their partners at length, and the various Pokemon they found themselves helping that day. Eventually they began talking about the adventures they’d had thus far, and the two became quick friends.

“I remember when we were signing up to become a team, Callahan was extremely rude,” Splasher recalled, a cheerful grin on his face. “Firequil and I didn’t let it get to us, though, and we overall had a good night.”

“It was similar for me and Lascivio , but we just got out of there as soon as we could,” Clarica laughed. “I miss him so much...”

“I remember, back when I bumped into you, I was sure Firequil would be telling me right then that I should have been looking in front of me while I was walking.” Splasher’s playful grin left him. “And I’d have been telling him that I was, just on the ground...”

Clarica gave a sympathetic grin, and the two Pokemon stopped in front of the Rescuer residence. “There’s no need to worry about him - if he’s a Rescuer like we are, I’m sure he’s getting his job done the way he ought to be.”

“That’s exactly what I’m worried about, though,” said Splasher. He went inside hurriedly and sat down in a warm spot near a fireplace, his fin drooping. “He usually tends to go above and beyond that. I’m worried that he might get too much into his work, and not enough into communicating with the other teams.”

The Vulpix sat down beside Splasher, the fire glowing more brightly as her energies fed it. “You’re not there with him, though. I mean, from how you make him seem, he’s fully capable of taking care of himself too.”

Splasher stared away, almost in a separate world yet still listening.

Clarica noticed this, and continued on with more fervor. “Splasher, if you keep thinking that way...”

“I know, I know...” said Splasher sharply, surprising Clarica. He turned and looked her in the eyes. “I’m sorry, but I just can’t. What if there is something to worry about? What if Firequil just goes back to Ambera and I never find him again? What if--”

Clarica gave a long look at Splasher before replying. “You’ve got a lot of ‘what ifs’ there. We’re Rescuers - we can’t think in ‘what ifs’...neither of us can, or we’d never be able to do our jobs. You have to believe in your partner. After all you’ve been through together, it’s evident that he believes in you; maybe you need to start believing in him, and yourself as well.”

But I do believe in him...don’t I? thought Splasher to himself. I mean, he’s strong...right? After all, he was the one who saved me from the lake. He was the one that finally stood up to his mom and told her what he needed to. He was the one who, although reluctantly, agreed to come with me on this journey to a new land...maybe he gives me too much of the credit. Maybe he needs more credit than either of us gives him.

Maybe I need to start examining myself.

Splasher gave a deep sigh. “You’re absolutely right, Clarica. Maybe I do need to start believing in him...now, just how to tell him that?”

He looked over towards a table in the residence, where a stack of papers rested almost in preparation for the many Pokemon who were sure to come over and grab one. Trotting over with a thought in mind, he grabbed a paper and writing utensil.

“Would you mind helping me write this, Clarica?”

“Not at all...you need me to write for you?”

“...no. But I’d like to have a friend nearby.”

Description
Rescue leader Mike cleared his throat as he stood in front of the many Rescuers, Rogues, and Merchants before him. He could glimpse Merchant leader PK in the corner of his eye, working with Doctor Quaak and the other Tao Village doctors on possibilities of remedies for Jasmine, and Rogue leader Devonshire seemed to have gone to the back of the crowd, his features becoming dark and passive as he thought over the group’s next step.

“Everyone! Can I have your attention please?” The Charmeleon’s voice seemed to have deepened a bit from when he was a Charmander, and it surprised him a bit. However, the tone of respect and camaraderie held in his voice had not changed at all, and everyone silenced upon hearing it. Mike had to keep himself from grinning at the fact that neither PK nor Devonshire acknowledged the speech he was going to give...that he had to give, both of obligation to his morals and because he was the only of the three leaders truly able to use their time to give a speech.

Those were the aspects of teamwork so many spoke of, he supposed. They never seemed prevalent at first, especially with such an odd group of leaders, but somehow it seemed they always managed to pull it all together. After all, they h--

“They’re listening, boy,” said a impatient voice from beside him, interrupting his train of thought. Grand Master Kec gave him a small glare, and motioned towards the teams in front of them. Seeing no reaction from Mike at first, as the Charmeleon was still recovering, he prodded at the Fire Pokemon with his staff. “Go on, say it loud for all yer friends.”

Mike rubbed his side with his hand and sighed, the appreciative moment gone. “Yes, sir...”

His voice shifted into a more upbeat and fulfilling tone as he took on his leadership deftly. “Well, everyone! I know we're in a strange situation here. I know everyone's...”

He motioned with his hands as he struggled to find the right words. “...bleak, but we all should brighten up! We'll get back to our friends, family, and loved ones. Count on it! But...” He thought a bit before finding his voice once more. “I guess it wouldn't really be bad to write some letters to them? I, uh...”

“Well, it certainly can’t hurt, can it?” said Grand Kec, irritability still in his voice. This time, though, it had a hint of remorse for the teams and Mike, well-hidden by the Kecleon’s practiced tongue. “These letters’ll be here so long as Foxy does his job.”

A sly grin crossed over his face. “And Foxy’s great at doin’ his job.”

Mike felt nervous perspiration drip down his front as he thought of the “great job” Callahan continued to do in the present. “Oh, yeah, I guess that's the guarantee.” The elderly Kecleon’s helpful remarks were well intended, but were starting to get on his nerves a little bit. His tail flame grew a few inches in a slightly more noticeable manner, startling the Charmeleon.

You have to keep your anger in check, Mike, he thought to himself with remorse. Being a Charmeleon will be more work than you set out for. Obviously my ancestors before me knew how to handle it, so let’s prove to them just how strong you can be.

“What a great idea!” Mike felt himself say. Even though it didn’t nearly match how he actually felt, he still wanted the Grand Kec to feel useful in this situation. “You're so prepared!”

The grin never left Grand Kec’s face. “Course it’s a great idea, it’s my idea.”

Blood rushed to Mike’s face faster than a Ninjask could ever have. “Yes!”

He decided to turn to his audience, the purpose of the speech slowly coming back to him. “Well, worry or not, I think it's a good idea to write a letter! It'll definitely get there, and you can feel well in that your others will know you're safe too!” The color left his face as his mind slowly drifted off elsewhere. His mouth spoke for him, and he almost began to speak subconsciously as thoughts of his own friends, family, and guild mates came back to him.

I have to keep hope, concluded Mike. If I don’t, these Pokemon very well could lose theirs, as well as their unity. And once that happens...we won’t have just one problem on our hands, but many.

************************************************************************************
Splasher half-heard the discussion between the two leaders - he was off in the town itself rather than the center, walking amidst the mostly quiet streets in the early afternoon. The sepia cottages lined along the sides of the street he walked on seemed much more soft than those he remembered from the little time he had spent in Tao thus far, and he was reminded of the types of residence back in Ambera, his and his partner’s homeland.

He chuckled to himself mentally, but with a hint of saddened realization. I’ve never liked how Firequil always tends to shut himself away from others...now, it looks like I’m doing the same. He found himself enjoying the quiet reclusiveness of the town, and it he couldn’t help but feel that the village spoke quiet wonders as he looked at the basic architecture and the way the town was made together.

Passing by a small fountain as he walked through the alleyways and rows, Splasher was reminded of the present Tao - while it seemed both were at war, this Tao seemed to have a sense of peace about it that the present village lacked. How did this town go from this into what it is like in the present?

Splasher contemplated over this deeply, finding himself genuinely curious. He looked toward the sky, watching the sun begin to rise in the distance. Why would a town like this grow into what was in present day Tao? It seemed to him that the peace within the village was well-forgotten in the present Tao, especially with so many recent disasters and the rebuilding of not just the village, but the entire region.

He realized that something similar had happened back in Ambera, but yet not the same - although the chaos here was different, and in many way much more catastrophic and horrible, the strength that emanated from the efforts of the Pokemon in both Tao and Ambera was the same. Both resembled the idea of how strength came from love and compassion towards one another, especially under duress.

Although Tao itself has worn down, the strength these villagers show is still seen in the efforts these guildmasters are making for their friends. Splasher sighed. I guess I still have a lot more to learn about Tao...and about perspective.

He came across a pathway back into the center of town. He decided to stop and take a moment to fully absorb his surroundings, realizing that he may or may not need to familiarize himself with them soon enough. Walking over towards the grass beside the road, he sat down and simply breathed in the spicy air, filled with the many scents of lush life and flowers.

His eyes first fell on the street he was just walking on; the stone bordering the road was designed to make the dirt on the road clearly distinguishable in the night, and the thought crossed his mind as to how many travelers Tao received every day. The grass on the ground nearby was fresh and matted, giving vivid life to the gentle cottages that seemed to bunch around the center of the village. The layout was almost as if a large raindrop had dropped onto the ground and the resulting splatters formed housing and shops, which seemed odd to Splasher considering that the village had been there for quite some time.

Back where he had been a few steps ago, the dirt road had come to a circlet where a small fountain rested. Made of some sort of milky stone, it warmly contrasted the clear water that danced over it. It seemed one of the only landmarks of the village, and Splasher was surprised he had missed it when he walked by it.

I guess I’m just too distracted to really notice much right now, Splasher realized. Too much has happened, and in so little time...

Standing up, he heard the voices of the leaders echoing back to him again through the streets.

“...won’t let her die.” It sounded distinctly like Mike, and the rage in his voice was just as evident.

“Everyone dies, boy.” That was the Grand Kec. “Just sometimes Lady Lethe doesn’t come right as quick as she was sposed ta.”

Splasher stopped walking forward, and he wondered if perhaps there had been some sort of circumstance in Micle’s life that would bring him to think so pessimistically, and he felt a bit of sympathy for the Grand Kecleon.

But the Mudkip also found himself struck by the honesty in the Merchant’s voice, and his thoughts tumbled without a mental filter. ...when I die, will it feel as long as Grand Kec says it might be?...will my new friends die that way? All I want now is to see Firequil again someday...

He sighed. This whole time travel situation had been hard on all of the teams, especially those that he knew closely or recognized from their works in the guild. He saw friendships fracture and break apart, and even those who were faring the best were still lost somewhat in remorse.

He himself could only seem to think about how Firequil was doing with all of this going on. I’m sure he’s doing just fine, thought Splasher to himself. There’s no need to worry...after all, we’ve faced worse together, haven’t we?

The Mudkip found himself surprised by how naturally it came for him to refer to Firequil and himself as a group. A tear dropped from his eyes, let loose by an unnatural vulnerability that Splasher felt so strongly.

But we aren’t together right now...and I need to be strong for him. Mourning something I still have yet to lose is just a waste of time. I know I’ll get back to him sometime...I just don’t like how I don’t know when that will be.

He took a deep sigh. He turned his head around, and behind him the last bit of the speech finished itself, and the Rescuers, Merchants, and Rogues all broke up into cheer. Hearing the voices of the two leaders, as well as the scramble of the other rescue teams woke Splasher up from his reverie. He was reminded of the proposition that Mike had proposed to the group at the beginning of his speech.

Writing a letter...it’s been so long since I’ve really taken the time to do that, thought the Mudkip to himself. Luckily Firequil taught me how to write, and I still remember after being thrown about in time.

Refreshing himself mentally, Splasher ambled back to the center of town, where several various Pokemon were running amuck. They were all trying to find someone who knew how to write up a letter, and Splasher hesitated before approaching the chaos in front of him. He heard the voice of Mike calling out from the center again, and all the running ceased.

“I forgot to mention this...but for those of you who don’t know how to write, I’m sure that there are several others here who wouldn’t mind doing so for you. We’re all in this situation together, so let’s put aside our differences and send some letters!”

A cheer erupted from the other Pokemon, and Splasher’s face twitched with nervousness.

I’m not so sure this is the best idea...I’m more afraid I’ll get trampled by a lone Numel than encouraged to help other write their letters.

His reluctance washed away as he reminded himself of who he was, and what he was here for really. I’m a Rescuer now. It’s my duty to help these Pokemon out, even if it’s only a request.

Firequil would put his fears aside for the greater good. So I will too.

He approached the most lost looking Pokemon he could find, trying to look as inconspicuous as possible.

“Excuse me, sir. Do you maybe need help with getting a letter written to your partner?”

The Hoppip in front of him jumped up sporadically, and Splasher yelped in surprise.

“Oh, I’m s-so sorry!” chimed the Hoppip, who blushed when he saw the Mudkip. “I th-thought you might be D-Devonshire again.” A sigh of relief passed over his face, and a smile appeared on his face. “I-I...”

“You don’t have to say anything,” Splasher said. “I can understand being afraid of Devonshire, so no worries! My name’s Splasher. What’s your name?”

“Drift,” muttered the Hoppip. “I’m not used to being by myself...usually Chime’s here with me...”

“Is Chime your partner’s name?”

“Y-yes...a Minccino. She and I are very close friends...”

“Well, that’s certainly a good thing,” said Splasher. “I’ve seen a few partnerships that aren’t quite like that.”

The Hoppip couldn’t help but chuckle lightly, his laugh sounding like a gentle wind. “I know...I’m really lucky. She helps me, well, to be braver.”

“I understand completely, although I’d probably be Chime in this situation,” added Splasher thoughtfully. A sheepish grin came over him. “Usually I’m the one having to be out there and going about with my partner. It’s not that he can’t do it himself, but he usually thinks too much to act on his thoughts.”

Splasher concluded this last statement with a thought on remorse. “I miss him a lot..which is why I came over to ask you if you wanted help writing a letter to Chime.”

“Oh, t-thanks...that’s very nice of you, but I’ve already written my letter,” Drift whispered. His face dropped. “I hope that doesn’t cause you too much trouble...”

Splasher quickly tried to reassure the Hoppip. “No, no! This wasn’t any trouble at all. Besides, I’m still somewhat new to Tao and its residents, so no problem. Thank you for letting me know.”

After having said goodbye to a new friend, Splasher walked off with a tired look on his face. However, keeping in persistence, he found another Pokemon looking lost among the rest. He walked over a little more confidently in hopes that a bolder approach might get him better results.

This Pokemon was a Gastly, seeming to rest suspended in the air as most others skirted around it just to avoid its presence. Splasher felt a bit of pity for the guy, but he also knew that Gastly’s don’t have arms...and therefore, it’d need his help in writing.

“Hey there! My name’s Splasher - what’s yours?”

The Gastly whirled around, its poisonous mist covering Splasher. He found himself coughing vehemently, and he created a small, hollow orb of water around his face to keep the gas from entering his body.

“Sorry,” said the Gastly, its words hissing from its mouth like gas escaping from a pipe. “It’s instinctive...usually Pokemon don’t approach me, and if they do it’s because they want something from me.”

Splasher spit the water out from his head, taking a deep breath for good measure. “It’s alright...I understand being protective of yourself, especially with all that’s been going on lately. How’ve you been faring?”

The Gastly looked Splasher in the eyes, and the Mudkip couldn’t help but flinch at the intensity behind the Pokemon’s light glare. “I’m holding my own...all things considered.” The Gastly looked away. “My name’s Kip.”

“Mine’s Splasher - I was curious if you needed help writing a letter to your partner.”

The Gastly’s face lit up, its normally hard gaze softened by a gentleness that Splasher didn’t usually associate with the Ghost Pokemon. “Would you? I have an awful lot I’d like to say...”

Splasher forced a grin. “I’m sure it isn’t that bad. Besides, I doubt there are many others who would be willing to help you out.”

“...good point. I have a paper right here. Shall we start?”

************************************************************************************

Splasher finished the last word on the page just as the sun began its descent . His right paw felt very tight and cramped as he dropped the finished letter into the special box that the Grand Kec had designated for the letters.

“Thank you so much, Splasher!” exclaimed Kip, a sigh of relief on his face.

“My pleasure, Kip. See you around!”

He turned his back to the Ghost Pokemon, his face growing more and more tired and angry as he walked further down into the streets of Tao towards the temporary residence he’d be staying in for the night.

I’ve only talked to two Pokemon...and I’m already feeling exhausted. This is when Firequil would lift my spirits up with some insightful idea about philosophy or something...

With his head down, the Mudkip didn’t notice until too late that he was quickly approaching another Pokemon. His head rammed into its side, and it emitted a yelp of surprise.

Splasher’s eyes widened, all thoughts of exhaustion gone. “Oh, I’m so sorry about that! I hope I didn’t hurt you or anything.”

The eyes of the shiny Vulpix he bumped into were aglow with fire, but the flames quickly vanished as her anger dissipated. “It’s...alright. I wasn’t really paying attention either, so don’t worry about it.”

Splasher let go of his breath. “I guess we’re all in the same waters this time around, in more ways than one. Thanks for understanding. My name is Splasher, by the way.”

“My name’s Clarica,” the Vulpix said dispassionately. “You seem extremely tired.”

“That’s because I am,” Splasher muttered. “I helped a Gastly write an extremely lengthy letter to his partner, and a very shy Hoppip I went to talk to earlier needed some calming down. There’s just so much to do...”

“It’s really not too bad, considering the things we done before,” Clarica added. “I have a feeling it’s more than that.”

Splasher gave her a small glare. “I really think I just need some sleep.”

“What I really think you need is someone to talk to. I was just heading to the Rescuer base myself for the night, so I’ve got all the time in the world.”

Splasher sighed. “You’re not going to let me off, are you?...now I know why Firequil is so aggravated when I’m persistent.”

“I’m guessing that Firequil’s your partner?”

Splasher smiled at the words, similar to those he had spoken earlier to the young Hoppip, Drift. “Yes...and a very good friend.”

Clarica led him to the Rescuer residence as the two of them discussed their partners at length, and the various Pokemon they found themselves helping that day. Eventually they began talking about the adventures they’d had thus far, and the two became quick friends.

“I remember when we were signing up to become a team, Callahan was extremely rude,” Splasher recalled, a cheerful grin on his face. “Firequil and I didn’t let it get to us, though, and we overall had a good night.”

“It was similar for me and Lascivio , but we just got out of there as soon as we could,” Clarica laughed. “I miss him so much...”

“I remember, back when I bumped into you, I was sure Firequil would be telling me right then that I should have been looking in front of me while I was walking.” Splasher’s playful grin left him. “And I’d have been telling him that I was, just on the ground...”

Clarica gave a sympathetic grin, and the two Pokemon stopped in front of the Rescuer residence. “There’s no need to worry about him - if he’s a Rescuer like we are, I’m sure he’s getting his job done the way he ought to be.”

“That’s exactly what I’m worried about, though,” said Splasher. He went inside hurriedly and sat down in a warm spot near a fireplace, his fin drooping. “He usually tends to go above and beyond that. I’m worried that he might get too much into his work, and not enough into communicating with the other teams.”

The Vulpix sat down beside Splasher, the fire glowing more brightly as her energies fed it. “You’re not there with him, though. I mean, from how you make him seem, he’s fully capable of taking care of himself too.”

Splasher stared away, almost in a separate world yet still listening.

Clarica noticed this, and continued on with more fervor. “Splasher, if you keep thinking that way...”

“I know, I know...” said Splasher sharply, surprising Clarica. He turned and looked her in the eyes. “I’m sorry, but I just can’t. What if there is something to worry about? What if Firequil just goes back to Ambera and I never find him again? What if--”

Clarica gave a long look at Splasher before replying. “You’ve got a lot of ‘what ifs’ there. We’re Rescuers - we can’t think in ‘what ifs’...neither of us can, or we’d never be able to do our jobs. You have to believe in your partner. After all you’ve been through together, it’s evident that he believes in you; maybe you need to start believing in him, and yourself as well.”

But I do believe in him...don’t I? thought Splasher to himself. I mean, he’s strong...right? After all, he was the one who saved me from the lake. He was the one that finally stood up to his mom and told her what he needed to. He was the one who, although reluctantly, agreed to come with me on this journey to a new land...maybe he gives me too much of the credit. Maybe he needs more credit than either of us gives him.

Maybe I need to start examining myself.

Splasher gave a deep sigh. “You’re absolutely right, Clarica. Maybe I do need to start believing in him...now, just how to tell him that?”

He looked over towards a table in the residence, where a stack of papers rested almost in preparation for the many Pokemon who were sure to come over and grab one. Trotting over with a thought in mind, he grabbed a paper and writing utensil.

“Would you mind helping me write this, Clarica?”

“Not at all...you need me to write for you?”

“...no. But I’d like to have a friend nearby.”