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Chapter 70 - Farewell Millennium City!

Optional track to LWR - Listen While Reading https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n022knhkOnk

"So... What say you Master Chris...? I'm sure the madam and her husband wouldn't object to a short stay until you leave..." Gerald offered while the group sat at a small cafe they had come across while cruising through the city, sitting at an outside table while taking in what remained of the morning sunlight and filling their stomachs. "Well... I dunno... I feel like I'd be imposing for one thing... Secondly they're so fancy and all... I'd be terrified of insulting them in some way by accident... I don't think I'd fit in well at all..." Chris replied nervously to the idea of staying at Arthur and Angela's mansion. "Oh nonsense! The master and his wife simply adore you. Whenever the time can be made to sit with them between their busy schedules and dedicating myself to your aid, they always want to hear about your latest exploits! I shouldn't say this, but you've become quite the competition for the madams affection! She swoons over you rather frequently... Even in her old age she doesn't hesitate to develop a crush on a handsome and bold young lad! The spirit of a young maiden at heart!" he laughed, Chris smiling nervously in response. "Of course the master does get a tad jealous naturally... But they've been together since they were teenagers so he's got nothing to be concerned over... Perhaps the correct way to see it would be a lady fawning over a child she had always wished for? I know I certainly would be proud to have a son such as yourself... If you don't mind me saying sir." the old butler chuckled while sipping tea causing Chris to blink at him in surprise and blush slightly with a smile. "G... Geez... Don't go spouting stuff like that... Besides, nobody would want me as a son, trust me..." he replied with a nervous laugh, waving his hand at the comment yet thanking him for it nonetheless. "Oh pish posh... Don't think so lowly of yourself lad, not after everything you've done." Gerald scowled in response before munching on a bite sized sandwich. "Oh these are delightful... I say, how are you enjoying your meals madams?" he asked, looking behind his shoulder as the girls sat at another table munching away getting a wave from them in response, their cheeks full of food. "Ha ha... Wonderful." he nodded in response with a smile before turning back to Chris. "Do reconsider sir... I insist! At least take the time to ask the two and hear out their thoughts on the matter... They may be high class, but they're still very kind at heart. No different than madam Alicia there." he assured Chris, the snake popping up when she heard her name and tilting her head, the two waving their hands with "never mind" smiles causing her to shrug and continue eating.

"Well... I guess it couldn't hurt... Speaking of Alicia she'd love staying at a place like that for sure... The girls probably would too..." he said quietly, looking at the group as Serenity took one of the snakes puffs while she was looking away, quickly stuffing it in her mouth as Alicia felt her plate for it, blinking confused and looking around when she couldn't find it as Serenity pulled an innocent act, looking around casually while Rose smiled and laughed nervously as the snake growled at Serenity who's cheeks were stuffed, the sneaky Pokemon smiling and patting Alicia on the head causing the snake to grit her teeth and suddenly chomp her finger, Serenity letting out a muffled scream before shaking her off and looking at her finger as it throbbed with a stuffed pouty face, the snake crossing her arms and facing away in irritation as Serenity swallowed her mouthful and stuck her tongue out in response. "Then again... I'm afraid they may get into it with one another and mess something up..." he added, letting out a sigh and shaking his head. "Not to worry... You'll have myself and plenty of their staff keeping an eye on them to insure nothing of the sort occurs." Gerald assured, waving his hand with a smile. "Alright then... I'll hold you to that." Chris nodded, shaking Geralds hand. "I live with them myself mind you, so this way should you be in need of assistance at any time I'll just be a few halls away." he added. "Oh yeah... I kinda wondered where you stayed whenever you weren't with us... So you're a live-in aid then?" Chris asked, getting a nod in response. "They're very generous to the senior staff. Many are allowed to take residence there while under their employ to make the tasks and life in general easier on them." he replied. "The senior staff who live at the mansion are served by those on duty when they are off, so they hold the master and his wife in very high regard. Such generosity in the wealthy is nearly impossible to find in our modern day... It's still hard to believe I managed to find myself caring for another such generous heart... A pity I have to say that about mankind today." he sighed, shaking his head before munching on another sandwich. "Ha ha... Most people would call me flat out stupid... Still, thanks for the compliment." Chris nodded with a smile before eating another sandwich as well. Leaning back with a sigh, Chris looked up at the sky before closing his eyes, butting his hands behind his head while munching away with half the tiny sandwich sticking out of his mouth. Seeing this, Serenity slowly stood and walked over, causing the others to watch confused as she walked past Gerald, the old butler letting out a quiet "hm?" while watching as well. Standing behind his chair and looking down at him silently, Chris grumbled from the sun being blocked from his face by Serenitys shadow, opening his eyes only to see Serenity holding her bangs aside while bending down, suddenly chomping down on the half of the sandwich sticking out of his mouth with her lips touching his.

Seeing this, Gerald and the girls froze up, each of them dropping the food they hand in their hands, causing Geralds sandwich to plop into his tea, with their mouths agape as Serenity pulled away with a giggle, happily trotting back to her seat and sitting with a satisfied smile, munching on the half of his sandwich in her mouth as Chris remained as he was, continuing to lean back until his seat suddenly fell sending him crashing onto the ground with a groan, grumbling for a moment and covering his mouth embarrassed before lifting his chair back up and muttering something about "eating in peace" while sitting, looking at the others. "What?! I didn't tell her to do that!" he shout embarrassed, the girls looking away out of jealously as Gerald cleared his throat, about to take another sip of tea before noticing the sandwich floating in his cup and sulking. After this, the group continued eating and chatting for some time, enjoying a chance to relax without worry once again before preparing to return to the limo. However, as they started climbing inside, Chris paused when he felt a sudden ping in his head, recognizing Ninetails call. "Huh...? What's up...?" he asked, looking up at his forehead before looking around. "Over... Huh...? Ooooh... I see it... Alright." he muttered, backing away from the limo and walking up to a nearby shop window, watching the ad on the TV's displayed. "Can't hear anything... Looks like a new ship though... Pretty fancy..." he muttered as the others watched him curiously from the limo. "The Guardian...? Cool name... Looks like it's off on its maiden trip... And something about the Arceanic...? I heard about that ship from the elders... Daaaannng... The hundredth anniversary...? Huh... Been that long...?" he murmured to himself, rubbing his chin as the TVs continued playing the ad for the maiden voyage of the S.S. Guardian. "Ahh yes... She's set to sail off a week from today..." Gerald told Chris, walking up and watching the ad as well. "The first of her kind... I hear she relies solely on solar energy, no waste put off at all... If that beast turns out successful on her trip, she'll start a whole new era of modern travel..." he chuckled. "Looks like it's heading off to a place called Arcticu Valley... Looks neat enough..." Chris replied, watching as he saw the commercial show off a huge village covered in snow and a colossal villa as one of its highlights. "That's a popular place to go this time of year. It won't be long before they host their annual Aurora Festival as well, likely another reason the cruise is heading to the village as her first destination... Believe it or not, many incredible things tend to happen during said festival... They say even legendary Pokemon from around the world tend to appear at the event, wishing to see the brilliant light show themselves and take in the atmosphere the town and those there put off... I've gone myself several times. It really is breathtaking. Quite a trip though, a weeks voyage by ship..." he explained as the advertisement showed a split screen of the valley and the ship, popping up a notice about the cruise accepting reservations for the trip.

"Huh... Look at that..." Chris muttered, raising an eyebrow. "Hey girls! Come over here for a sec!" he shout over his shoulder, the three quickly coming up and looking at the screens curiously. "...Wadaya think? Since we're gonna be leaving anyways... Why not leave in style...? We could hang for a week, hop on the cruise, and take a trip to see that Aurora Festival thing... It would kinda be like an early Christmas..." he told them as they watched the ad repeat itself on the screen, this time showing several different pictures and clips of the ship and valley that weren't shown before. "Don't know what Christmas is... But looks fun... That place look nice... What covering it...?" Serenity asked confused, pointing at the village. "Snow... Ice that falls from the sky but doesn't melt because of the cold temperature." Chris replied. "Cold temperature...?" Alicia muttered, looking at the village with a "blech" look on her face. "Don't worry... If we go I'll make sure you stay warm!" he grinned, suddenly lifting the snake up and holding her against him in his arms, rubbing his cheek on her head causing Alicia to flush wide eyed from the sudden closeness and freeze up. "Well... I wouldn't mind... It looks pretty..." Rose smiled with a nod. "...Bah, I suppose..." Alicia muttered, crossing her arms with a scowl yet continuing to blush nonetheless as he held her. "Alright then... That makes the vote unanimous..." Chris paused, taking a pen out of his pocket and grabbing a nearby napkin from one of the outside tables, putting Alicia down in the process before looking at the screen. "Aaannnd... Got it... I'll try the number later and see what I can set up." he nodded, putting the sheet in his pocket. "A cruise on a brand new ship... How exciting!" Gerald grinned as they returned to the limo. "Yeah... Dunno why but I've got a really..." he paused. "nagging..." he muttered. "sensation in the back of my mind to go on that trip." he replied as they climbed in and drove off.

"So... Do tell... Where are we going now exactly...?" Alicia asked, looking out the windows curiously. "Yeah... We get back in limo... But not say where taking us..." Serenity added, tilting her head. "Ahh... Well... We've been given... Kind of an invitation to stay somewhere... In a way... It isn't official yet though." he explained with a nervous smile, the girls raising an eyebrow in response. "A surprise...? I hope it's something amazing..." Rose replied, looking out the windows curiously as well while the other girls slumped suddenly. "His surprises... Amazing alright..." Serenity muttered, shaking her head with a slight blush. "Quite... Good intentions, bewildering results..." Alicia added, letting out a sigh. "Oh come on!! That was ONE surprise... Geez..." Chris snapped in response, crossing his arms and scowling. "At least it came from the heart... Cut me some slack... I was my first time trying that sort of thing..." he grumbled, the pouting causing Serenity to let out an "aww" before rubbing him on the head with a giggle, Alicia rolling her eyes. "Yes yes... You did your best... Good boy." she told him, slithering atop his shoulders and patting him on the head as well causing Chris to grit his teeth and shoo the two away. "Stop with the pet treatment!! You know that bugs me!!" he reminded, the two laughing at his frustration as Rose and Gerald sighed and shook their heads simultaneously, the rabbit climbing in the front and sitting next to the old butler as the two continued toying with Chris. "Oh, do be careful madam." he reminded the rabbit, motioning towards the belt and helping her put it on as they came to a stop at a light. "I must say, it truly is refreshing to have you by our side... I've yet to see you get involved in their little... Ahh... Moments... A single time... Most impressive. Such a well behaved young lady!" he praised, rubbing her on the head with a chuckle. Looking up at him, the rabbit blushed slightly embarrassed, looking down and rubbing her ear with a giggle. "So what brings you up here?" he asked, making a turn as the light changed. "Just felt like getting away... Besides, you always sit up here alone. Is it alright if I sit here?" she asked, tilting her head as he blinked at her in surprise before suddenly laughing and patting her on the head. "Of course my dear... What a pleasant thing you are." he smiled with a nod, looking in the mirror and sighing seeing Chris now stuck under Serenity, the mischievous Pokemon sitting on his lap and facing him while flirting, Alicia slithering over his shoulders and slumping over his head, teasing his face with her vines and trying to get him to sneeze using her tail teasingly with a sly grin on her face. "...I do hope they learn self control..." he groaned, shaking his head as Rose looked back as well, blushing shyly with a slightly sad look. Seeing this, the old butler smirked and pat her on the head once again. "Rest assured madam... He truly does appreciate the self control you show... You might think you're missing out by behaving differently than those two, but believe me, good things always come to those who justly deserve a reward... He'll show his appreciation in time. I'm sure he's done so in some way already, has he not?" he asked, the rabbit jolting and thinking back on the moment earlier when they sat at the lab waiting for Gerald, causing her to smile and fidget embarrassed. "Y... Yeah... You're right..." she replied, happily petting her ear once again. "He... Does like me..." she muttered to herself, suddenly giggling and pulling her ears in front of her face as Gerald nodded with a smirk.

Optional track to LWR - Listen While Reading https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvHNNcUB-9Q

Driving through the city, the group eventually arrived at Arthur and Angela's mansion located just beyond the outskirts, stopping in front of what looked like a huge entrance gate made of gold with a colossal brick wall stretching endlessly in both directions. "Ho...ly..." Chris muttered, leaning his head out the window and looking at the gate as Alicia did the same. "Crap... Is the word you meant to finish with... Vulgar, yet admittedly appropriate..." the snake added, looking out of another window at the gate. Slowly driving up, Gerald stopped at a control panel, pressing a button causing a small monitor to flash on showing one of the mansions maids. "Ahh... Good to see you again sir. How has your time with Master Chris and his family gone today? I see you have a guest!" she smiled, bowing as the rabbit blinked in surprise, nodding in response. "Oh no... Not just a guest... This would be Madam Rose... And back here..." he paused, facing the monitor towards Chris and Alicia who blinked and waved silently, Serenity poking her head out above Chris's and looking around curiously. "I... Is that...?" the maid asked wide eyed, quickly bowing once again. "I'll open the gate immediately! Do come in!" she told the group before the monitor flashed off, a click coming from the gate before it slowly opened on its own. "Uhh... Did I... Say or do something...?" Chris asked confused. "Oh heavens no... You're quite popular here you see. It's not only Master Arthur and his wife who hold you in high regard past these walls." he smiled before driving the limo past the gate. As they watched it close behind them, Gerald drove the limo along the driveway, stretching far into the distance where Chris and the girls could see a massive building poking up from the horizon. "Woooooaaaaah... This place is like a valley..." Chris muttered. "Quite... As though riding along in another world..." Alicia added, looking around and smiling with a sigh as she enjoyed the sun and the breeze. "No buildings... Air smell better..." Serenity noticed, taking in the air herself. Looking around in the front seat, Rose enjoyed all of the trees and flowers scattered throughout the area, pressing her face against the window with an excited look on her face. "Man... This reminds me of when I first set off... The nature and open spaces... I missed this kind of stuff so much..." Chris sighed, resting his cheek on his hand with a peaceful look on his face. Driving along, they passed countless Pokemon as well taking advantage of the location, including Bellossoms, Sunfloras, Lilligants and Roserades, Leavannys, Butterfrees, many Florges and Meganium as well! Of course this naturally included their previous evolution's, which were littered about within the engrossing nature surrounding them. In the trees and sky, you could see countless other Pokemon taking advantage of the paradise as well, including water type and bug Pokemon that swarmed within and nearby the various pools of water and streams that connected them trailing along towards the mansion too. The closer they got to the building, the thicker the plant life became, until it appeared as though they were driving through a small forest before suddenly coming out in front of the colossal structure itself, towering above them as the sun flashed in their eyes and Gerald drove the limo around a massive fountain which featured a huge monument of Mega Diancie in the center looking as if praying, genuine jewels used to make the resemblance perfect as water trickled along its skirt and into the fountain itself.

"Ahhh home sweet home..." Gerald chuckled, stepping out of the limo and stretching with a sigh before walking up to the fountain and leaning over. "And how are all of my friends on this delightful day?" he asked, countless Feebas suddenly jumping from the fountain all over the place excitedly, each clearly showing a smile as one jumped into his arms. "Oh heavens! Haven't you been told not to do that?" he laughed, petting the Feebas and lowering it back into the water before looking himself over with a sigh. "Oh well... A little water never hurt anyone..." he smiled while heading back towards the limo. "What's with... All the...?" Chris asked, pausing and going wide eyed as two colossal Milotic slowly rose from the fountain behind Gerald as he opened the limo door, their shadows looming over him. "All the... What now...?" he asked, blinking as Chris and the girls quickly backed away causing him to blink confused. "Goodness... Do you feel that intimida-aaaaateeeeed!!!???" he shout in surprise as one of the Milotic lift him up, the two glaring at him as he gulped nervously. "P... Please... You do this every..." he said nervously with his hands up, cut off as both suddenly started rubbing and cuddling all over him, cooing and swooning causing the old butler to laugh while dangling about in the air between them. "Dear me... Now I understand..." he smiled nervously. "Master Chris... Do forgive me... Allow me to introduce Camilla and Alistair... They're the Milotic owned by the master and his wife, assigned under my care and parents of the Feebas in this fountain... I'm a breeder as well you see, and a fine one at that! Each and every one of these Feebas will be worth a fortune once they reach the proper age... This is just one of the many ways they garner extra profits on the side." he chuckled, coaxing the two Pokemon to release him as Chris and the girls stepped out cautiously, the two Milotic looking them over before nuzzling Gerald with their snouts and returning to the water, coiling around the base of the fountain in the center to relax. Walking up, Chris and the girls looked into the water at the countless Feebas cluttering up the massive fountain. "Pah!! THOSE creatures?! Worth a fortune?!" Alicia scoffed before suddenly laughing loudly at the fish, the back of her hand under her chin as she stood atop Chris's shoulders. "Oh dear... Not wise..." Gerald warned, backing away with a nervous smile as the Feebas suddenly glared at her before several jumped out and shot a powerful burst of water in her direction, sending the snake flying off his shoulder and slamming into the limo causing the rest to leap gleefully from the water, laughing at her punishment as she plopped onto the ground with a groan. "...I knew your attitude would catch up to you eventually..." Chris sighed, shaking his head and lifting her into his arm as she babbled about the Feebas in her dazed state. "At least you didn't leave a dent..." Chris added, looking over the limo as she shot up with a gasp. "Well thank you for caring!!" she snapped, pushing out of his arms and walking away with her arms crossed and a teary scowl on her face. "Oy oy... Come on..." he groaned, rubbing his head as Serenity looked in the water and poked the Feebas, one of them sucking onto her finger as she pulled it from the water and blinked curiously. "Feel weird... No teeth...?" she asked, opening its mouth and looking inside only for the Feebas to suddenly thrash and give her several rapid slaps across the face before splashing back into the fountain leaving her dazed with red cheeks as she stumbled about with an awkward laugh. "Ooookay then... Let's just make our way elsewhere shall we...?" Chris laughed nervously, pushing Serenity along and lifting Alicia in his arm as the two scowled together in irritation. Back at the spring, Rose walked up and waved at the Feebas, the irritated Pokemon looking up at her. "I'm sorry..." she told them before noticing a bucket full of food meant for them and lifting it up. "No hard feelings?" she asked, dumping the food in causing the Pokemon to quickly change their expressions and gleefully eat the food, several popping out of the water allowing her to pet them. Seeing this, Gerald nudged Chris and motioned for him to take a look, seeing the rabbit sitting on the side of the fountain.

"Oooy! You're falling behind!" he shout, the rabbit jolting and waving in response. About to follow, one of the Milotic suddenly caught her by the back of the neck in its mouth, lifting her up and over the other Milotic's head before letting her go, allowing the rabbit to slide down its back before flying off its tail and landing in front of Chris, the two Pokemon bowing before returning to the center of the fountain once again. "Well well... They've taking a liking to you!" Gerald smiled with a thumbs up, Chris rubbing the rabbit on the head with a chuckle as the girls let out frustrated "hrmph!"s in response to her praise. "Not like fish!!" Serenity said, rubbing her cheeks with tears in her eyes. "Rude little cretins... I agree, nothing to like... Worth a fortune... Pah!" Alicia nodded in frustration, letting out a groan from hitting the side of the limo. "I dunno... I think they're cute..." Rose giggled, the two scowling at her in response causing the rabbit to jump behind Chris. "Ha ha... No worries, they're just jealous... Nice job back there." he nodded, patting her on the back as they walked up the massive central staircase leading up to the entrance of the mansion which seemingly stretched endlessly on both sides. "Man... It looks like this place could house the whole city and then some..." he muttered as they reached the top of the stairs, standing before a massive set of doors with a butler standing on each side, the group noticing guards walking about as well. "Welcome home sir! It's not like you to bring visitors... They must be important. Could this be the young man and the Pokemon we've heard so much about?" one of them asked as they walked in front of the doors. "Yes indeed. I had hoped to request they stay here among us until they leave the city, likely a week from now." Gerald replied with a nod. Talking with each other for a moment, the girls looked around in awe, as did Chris who looked over the horizon in front of them, seeing the forest surrounding the mansion followed by the mile long fields ending at the border walls, noticing all of the Pokemon and various staff roaming about the property with the city beyond the wall in the distance. "Man... And I thought the view from the hotel was great..." Chris muttered, the girls nodding in agreement. Suddenly, they heard a knock come from inside the door, the group turning and watching the butlers speaking with one of the maids before nodding at one another and shutting the cracked door again. "Master Chris! It would seem a surprise is waiting for you inside. Do come post haste." Gerald smiled, motioning for the group to return to his side at the entrance. Looking at one another confused, they walked up to the doors as the butlers nodded, each grabbing a handle and pulling the doors open at the same time allowing them to walk in.

"WELCOME TO EDEN MANOR!!!" they heard the staff shout together, hundreds gathered into the entrance lobby to greet them with smiles and grins causing the group to fall back together and land with a thud, clutching their chests as if having heart attacks as Gerald and the staff laughed in response. "I told you they had taken a liking to you!" the old butler laughed helping them up as the staff started walking up and shaking their hands. "Quite an honor to meet a man so dedicated to the happiness of the Pokemon in this grand world! Good show old boy, charging into prison to free innocent souls... Such boldness is commendable!" one of the men praised, patting Chris on the back. "Such an adorable young lady! We heard all about how you stood up for that man! For one as delicate as yourself to charge headfirst into battle for those she loves... You're quite popular among the ladies here!" one of the nurses praised, shaking Roses hand as she flushed and smiled nervously in response. "We've heard a great deal about your endeavors to go above and beyond to serve and protect your master... You have a lot of respect here madam. From one servant to another, it's an honor to meet a lady so wholeheartedly dedicated to insuring the one she cares for is always happy and safe." one of the older butlers told Serenity while shaking her hand with a bow, the flattered Pokemon grinning from ear to ear and waving her hand embarrassed. "Ohhh... Such a refined aura... Would you look at the quality of her skin and that leaf on her tail...? Top quality indeed..." some of the older butlers and maids muttered together while gathering around Alicia, the snake blinking at them before lifting her chin up proudly. Looking at the girls as they all continued shaking hand after hand and hearing out the praise offered by the staff, Chris chuckled from seeing their happy and flattered expressions, nodding before an elderly man with a cane and a long beard suddenly pulled on his hand, causing Chris to jerk forward as he took off his shades, revealing he was blind as Chris look into his eyes in surprise. "Hmmm...." the man muttered, leaning forward and seemingly glaring deep into his eyes before backing away with a smile and a nod. "A good soul in this man... But there is another... Not to fear however, although intimidating, it too is a good soul akin to yours. Two souls woven together in one man... That of a human and that of a beast... Interesting... The two of you create quite a radiant light, like that of a beacon... One surely meant to guide many in this world..." he said, patting Chris on the shoulder before walking up to Serenity and pulling her close as well, the Pokemon freezing up and raising a hand to strike only to freeze up when she looked in his eyes. "...You have commendable values. A strong sense of righteousness, a burning passion to protect and love... Yet there is a darkness within you, one that terrifies you... A darkness that feeds off the anger within you... That thrives in your hatred towards those who have done wrong... To you and those you care for..." he said, touching Serenity on the forehead, suddenly smiling. "...But such a radiant soul can never be lost to such darkness. There is a bridge between you and another that protects it... A safe haven your soul can turn to when the darkness overwhelms you..." he explained, the old man facing Chris's direction before patting Serenity on the shoulder. "Fear not... Although powerful this darkness may be, it can never overcome the bond between such tender spirits. Alone this darkness would likely consume you... But you are not alone... That is your strength... Your advantage..." he assured, the Pokemon looking at him in surprise as he backed away and went up to Rose. "A kind soul within you... Timid.... Meek... Shy and wary... Gentle to the core... Loving and tender... You seek acceptance... You fear rejection... And my... Such little self worth within you... I see a desire to fill the holes in your heart, left by much torture and rejection... Even with all of this negativity, there is also hope remaining deep inside you... As if a small candle... One with a flame growing brighter and brighter since meeting another..." he paused, facing Chris again before returning his attention to Rose. "There is another bridge... Connecting you to the same soul as your friend... I sense much happiness in your future... You've nothing to fear..." he assured, rubbing the rabbit on the head as she looked up at him silently.

Walking up to Alicia, he squat down slowly and felt her head, his gaze meeting hers. "...Such a fiery soul. I feel as though I could be set ablaze just by standing here before you..." he said, lifting her chin as Alicia silently looked at him. "But beyond this fire, there are secrets within you as well... There is pain in your past... Something you too share in common with your friends... Humiliation... Terror... You fear growing stronger, yet passionately strive to grow nonetheless... The future concerns you, yet there is also excitement burning within your soul for what it holds... You take pride in your accomplishments, yet never forget your failures... You're wise, yet wary... You're a loving soul, yet fear expressing yourself because you believe it creates weaknesses within you, something others could take advantage of... And once more, there is a bridge..." the old man chuckled with a nod. "You have little trust in others... Yet there is one you're learning to have faith in more and more as time passes... One you feel... Perhaps... Is safe to rely on... Your pride is a powerful thing that dominates you... As is common in your kind... Yet slowly you're accepting this bridge... One you've crossed in the past yet hesitate to cross again... But you will... There is much happiness awaiting you as well... The one you allow yourself to rely on will provide for you a future beyond your dreams..." he assured, standing with a nod and facing the others directions. "I can tell you all have an extraordinary future... Full of everything you've lacked and desired in the past... And much more... The bridges between you will never crumble, and you will all continue to grow at exceptional rates alongside one another." he told them with a smile as they looked at one another before facing different directions embarrassed. "Oh father... Do stop analyzing our guests. You know it's rude to do so to those who don't know you! Even to those who do know you, it's still rude!" they heard a woman lecture, the staff suddenly bowing as Arthur and Angela walked up, arm in arm together as the old man scowled. "Oh do lighten up Geegee... I said nothing wrong... I only did so because I find them a likable bunch." he replied with his arms crossed. Looking at one another, they repeat the name Geegee in unison, looking at Angela as she sighed and shook her head. "Fathers nickname... Ever since I was an infant he's called me that, no matter how frequently I urge him to use my full title..." she explained. "That aside... It's grand to see you again... I still cannot thank you enough for saving my husbands precious life." she smiled, resting her head on Arthur's shoulder causing him to blush and scowl embarrassed. "Personally the repayment has been made in my opinion... After all we DID cover his stay at the hospital..." he replied causing Chris to jolt in surprise. "What...? You didn't know...? Did I not ask you to tell him?!" Arthur asked, looking at Gerald with a raised eyebrow causing the old butler to laugh nervously and wave his hands. "Do forgive me sir... With everything happening I completely forgot over time..." he confessed, bowing and apologizing as Arthur shook his head and Angela laughed. "Yes indeed... Upon your arrival the hospital recognized the insignia's on the watch my husband gave you along with his note and gave us a call post haste. As a little extra thanks for what you did my darling here immediately offered to cover the entire stay... Absolutely no hesitation! When he heard you were so badly injured he even provided one of the best men under our employ to see to it you and your darling family here were well taken care of... We do hope Gerald has met all of your expectations." she giggled as Chris continued looking at the three in surprise. "Y... Yeah... He's done so much I even feel bad... To be honest I owe him a ton." he laughed nervously, looking at the girls as the staff continued swarming around them and getting to know them. "Well then... He can be forgiven for his ignorance..." Arthur nodded, Gerald thanking his master before backing away as the two walked up to Chris.

"Well then lad... What do you think of my home?" Arthur asked, raising his head and smirking proudly before opening an eye and glancing down at him. "W... Well..." he muttered, looking around and at all of the staff in the room. "Gerald told me about how you take care of the people here... Especially the elders... And you've got so many Pokemon roaming around here that look pretty happy..." he replied, rubbing the back of his head. "I don't really have much to say about the stuff you own because I don't focus on what people have... It DOES look amazing though... You've got a great paradise kind of place here..." he added, Arthur looking down at him with a raised eyebrow. "But as far as you go... I think you're a really great man. You've got so much money... Yet you take care of everyone... People and Pokemon... You're a guy a lot of rich people could learn from. You've got all the money in the world, yet you never let it cloud your heart... Everybody who works for you respects you... That makes you a man among men if you ask me." he smiled with a nod, Angela giggling as Arthur suddenly grinned from ear to ear. "I LIKE this lad! Did you hear that? A great man he say's... What an excellent judge of character!" he laughed, slapping Chris on the back. "Tell us, what persuaded you to finally pay us a visit?" he asked, Gerald clearing his throat and walking up with a bow. "Forgive me sir but... It was I who encouraged him to come... I thought, perhaps, you and the mistress would consider giving him residence here until he leaves... Master Chris intends to board the Guardian when it sets sail..." Gerald explained, Arthur raising his eyebrow at the butler again. "Offering to let others stay here without my permission...?" he grumbled, Angela waving her hand and murmuring "easy dear..." in his ear. Looking at Chris, he remained silent for a moment while looking at the staff still greeting his Pokemon, thinking it over until Angela's father suddenly elbowed him in the side. "You know you're going to let the man stay here so stop acting stubborn... You likely want him to stay more than anyone." he lectured, putting his shades back on and standing silently. "Cocky old fool... Did we ever actually have him checked to affirm he was blind...?" Arthur grumbled, rubbing his side in irritation before the old man suddenly point his cane in front of Arthur's face. "I may be blind, but my other senses work just fine... DODO... Respect your father." he replied before setting his staff down. "Umm... If it's too much trouble..." Chris laughed nervously, Arthur and Angela looking at one another before he grumbled and nodded. "A weeks stay... I'll allow it... Just try not to be a bother. We're busy people." Arthur replied, grunting before turning and walking away. Watching with a smile, Angela went up to Chris and leaned towards his ear. "Not to worry... That means he hopes you take the time to visit with him... He does love showing off... I ask that you humor him during your stay if you would... Just a little...?" she asked Chris, bowing with a wink as Arthur called out to her, Angela waving and quickly following with her arm around his once again. "Rest assured lad... Arthur may be a pain on the outside, but the man does have a good heart on the inside, otherwise I'd never have let him near my girl... He gets rather lonesome so I'd appreciate it too if you humored the fool a tad while you stay with us." the old man told him, walking up with his hand out for a shake. "My name is Atticus by the way... A pleasure to meet the man who's become such an icon." he smiled before suddenly walking away, expertly making his way along the lobby and up the stairs to the second floor.

"Well then... I uh... Guess this means we've found a home for a while..." Chris laughed nervously, looking around wide eyed. "This is just the lobby... Learning where to go in this place is gonna be impossible..." he muttered. "Nonsense! You'll have plenty of staff ready to assist you at any time during your stay." Gerald assured, patting Chris on the shoulder with a proud grin. "What an honor it is to serve a man my own master welcomes into his abode!" he laughed, snapping his fingers and motioning for several butlers and maids to get their belongings from the limo. "We're in my world now sir! Relax and enjoy!" he smiled, motioning for staff to come and help him as well, the group finding themselves suddenly pushed along towards one of the colossal hallways. "N... No touch!! No touch!! Too much touch!!" Serenity suddenly shout, pushing the staff away and running up to Chris with her arms around him. "E... Easy easy!! They're just helping!!" he shout, nearly falling back from her sudden impact. Looking at her, Alicia groaned embarrassed, Rose tilting her head curiously as they continued strolling through the hall. After a moment, they finally turned and stopped in front of one of the large double doors in the hallway. "We hope this room meets your expectations. This is the most luxurious guest room the master and his wife had built into the manor." one of the maids explained before she and one of the butlers opened the door. Stepping inside, the groups eyes went wide as they walked into the bedroom, a huge and fancy canopy bed at one side surrounded by a red veil and carved out of dark colored wood, a fireplace on the other side of the room surrounded by chairs and a couch along with a massive flat screen hanging above it. With a marble balcony near the bed as well, the group noticed an entrance to their own bathroom next to the fireplace area, with a huge crystal chandelier hanging above them in the center of the room. "This is... Big enough to be a house... Or at least an apartment..." Chris muttered, walking around the room as Alicia made her way onto the bed, flopping down with a sigh. "Oh yes... This suits me quite well..." she giggled, Serenity and Rose sitting in the chairs near the fireplace as Chris walked out onto the balcony, watching as a group of Rapidash and Ponyta ran about below, some grazing on the grass in peace. "Really nice view..." he murmured while squinting and following the border wall in the far distance. "All the way around... Goes on for what seems like miles... Then the woods surrounding the mansion... THIS is the kind of stuff I could get...?" he thought to himself, picturing his own mansion and miles of land for a moment. "Nah... I'd probably do something like this in a way but different at the same time... I could think of a ton of other uses too..." he nodded while continuing to think out his own landscape, pointing at different spots of land, randomly shaking his head and nodding. "Something on your mind sir?" Gerald asked, walking up and looking at the surrounding land as well. "Just thinking about what it would be like if I ever used my money for something like this... How the land and all could be used... If a time ever came that I stayed in one place again, I'd wanna give the place I live some purpose... As many purposes as possible." he replied, continuing to look around and up at the sky. "Even if I live in one place, I'd still want to be of use to people and all... I dunno... Just daydreaming." he sighed, heading back into the room as the butlers and maids brought in their things, including his rucksack and Serenity's instruments. "Forgive me sir but... Do you play by chance?" one of the butlers asked. "Oh... No... She does though! Gerald's taught her a lot already... She's pretty good." he smiled, pointing out Serenity causing her to smile and blush from the compliment. "Umm... I feel kinda bad about you having to drag that stuff all the way in here... I'm supposed to tip or something right...?" Chris asked, reaching for the few bills in his coat pocket only for the staff and Gerald to blink at him confused and shake their heads. "Master Chris they're well taken care of monetary wise... You don't have to tip anyone here, a thank you is quite enough." Gerald explained, the staff nodding in agreement while waving and heading out. "W... Well then... Thank you...?" he replied, a slightly guilty look on his face.

With the group left alone to relax and take in their new living space, Gerald sat with Chris by the fireplace and started explaining how things worked at the mansion, who to call for what, where things were located, when it was allowed to go where and such... And of course he affirmed the importance of remembering which chambers belonged to Arthur and Angela and her father, warning him of making certain not to waltz into their quarters by accident. "If you have any problems whatsoever remembering these rules, you've got a map of each floor of the mansion, along with a map of the surrounding perimeters lining your wall near the door there... And one of the staff will bring in a schedule for you going over all that I've explained as well, understand?" he smiled as Chris and the girls sat with nervous smiles of their own, silently nodding as he laughed. "Not to worry... You'll grasp everything in no time at all, rest assured... That aside, I'm sure the master and his wife would, as she and Master Atticus explained, love to see you from time to time. Master Arthur is often in his office, but even visiting him there would likely be appreciated as he isn't the type to resist showing off his professional life when given the chance. You're a new face in this massive abode... A refreshing experience you'll find many are excitedly looking forward to." he told them before standing and looking at his watch. "Actually... Now that we're here it gives me time to catch up on a few things as well... If you need anything in particular or wish to see me at any time, just use the phone next to your bed over there and call the number written next to it. That will patch you through to the staff in charge of relaying messages. We've quite the intricate system here which we take great pride in!" he grinned. "More often than not I'll be tending to the Pokemon we breed for profit, such as Camilla and Alistair. We keep them in various locations that best suit their tastes and guarantee the highest quality offspring... The happier the healthier!" he chuckled while heading for the door. "You'll learn many things here during your short stay I'm sure... Do keep in mind what I told you, especially about the phone!" he reminded, the group nodding with a wave as he left the room.

"Soooo... You girls catch all that...?" he asked, each of them laughing nervously and shaking their heads in response. "Well... He said it wouldn't be too hard to learn the ropes of this place... Then again compared to us he's a lot smarter I'll admit so who knows?" he laughed, rubbing the back of his head. "Alright... Well... Before we go doing any exploring and stuff, I need to make that call about the cruise... You girls mind hanging in here and waiting for me? Then again... I guess I could have the staff come give you a tour if you want." he offered while sitting at the bed and pulling the phone into his lap. "No... We wait..." Sereity replied, looking up at the giant TV hanging on the wall, tilting her head wondering how it stayed up. "Quite right... It'd be rude of us to leave without you. I don't want any negative thoughts about me our first day here by such refined humans." Alicia agreed. "I'd rather wait too... I wanna be with you, not strangers... Even if they are nice humans... It would feel weird..." Rose added with a nod, jolting when Serenity nudged her and pointed out the chandelier hanging behind them high above, the two chatting in their Pokemon tongues about the fragile structure dangling above them and watching it sparkle in the light, the snake looking up at it as well and facing the two, shaking her head with a sigh. Nodding in response, he took out the napkin and made the call, sitting in silence for a moment on hold until finally getting n answer on the other line. "Ah!! H... Hello...? Yes... I wanted to ask about the cruise... Which...? Ahh... It was in a commercial today... That's right, the Guardian... Uh huh..." he said, the girls watching silently before distracting themselves by touring the room together. "Yeah... What time...? Got it... Well... I'm not sure what experience I... Oh, sure! Thanks..." Chris said, relaxing against the headboard of the bed as the girls stopped at the large bookcase in the room, looking over all the books filling the shelves, some showing pictures the girls sat and looked through. "Okay... Yeah, first is fine... Room...? Probably one kinda... Oh! It has that? I'll take it... My family would love..." he continued, finding a sheet of paper while the girls left the books on the floor and went into the bathroom to look around. "Alright... So you've got our names... The card went through you said...? Good, good... Yeah, everything sounds fine... When was it we...? Got it... Alright then, thanks! Looking forward to... The captain...? Oh wow... We'll be on time!" he finished, hanging up the phone with a sigh and putting it back on the bedside table before heading into the bathroom, finding the girls sitting in an empty hot tub built into the floor next to a large step in shower, looking around themselves confused. "Ha ha! Oh man... Even one of those in here...?" he said while walking around it. "Niiiice... That's gonna be awesome to take a break in." he chuckled as they tilt their heads. "How is this relaxing...? It's rather hard... Cushions would be preferable for a sitting area..." Alicia scowled. "Heh... It's a sitting area, but not the kind you're thinking of. It's a hot tub!" he explained, looking around and finding a panel on the wall with various dials. "You use that thing there to turn it on... That makes it fill up with water, and you can turn on jets from the looks of it... I'll explain it to you girls later." he assured, helping them out. "We're all set for the cruise! Got us a really fancy room on it too!" he grinned with a thumbs up. "Fancy...? Well now... Good job!" Alicia praised with a nod. "You're learning to please me rather well... Keep it up." she smirked with a wink, Serenity scowling in response. "Shouldn't matter if fancy room or not. Should be happy with him period..." she lectured, the snake looking up at her in irritation, shaking her head in silence. "What?! It true! What you do if he have no money? If always have to live with little food and no place to stay like hotels? You make me think you stay because he have money..." she told the snake with a raised eyebrow. "N... Now now girls... Come on... Stop making everything a fight!" he lectured, Alicia about to shout at her only to remain silent with her mouth open, biting her lip in frustration before walking away and waving her hand with a "tch!" in response.

"Serenity... Come on that was uncalled for..." he lectured. "She not bad person but care too much about nice things..." she replied, looking away. "Yeah...? Well don't you think maybe it's because she didn't HAVE that before? You need to keep in mind how she was treated before we met... She was as bad off as you... Maybe worse when you think of how long she went through what she did in comparison... It's not like she had much to enjoy. You've all suffered, and I'm not saying what happened to you is any less horrible either but... I got a fancy room on that cruise for all of us, not just her... You didn't need to put out such a bad opinion in her face just for being the first to say the cruise made her happy. Sometimes you fail to realize how high and mighty YOU act compared to her now and then... Tone down how much you get in her face, alright? Seriously..." he told her, shaking his head as she watched him leave the bathroom before facing down and rubbing her arm. In the bedroom, Alicia and Rose were waiting at the door, the snake looking at him before facing down and blushing slightly. "...You alright?" he asked, squatting down and rubbing her on the head. "Pah! Of course... Leave me be..." she grumbled, pushing his hand away as Rose giggled. "She heard what you said in the bathroom... You should've seen how much she smiled." the rabbit told him causing Alicia to flush and shush her in response, Rose laughing with her hands up. "Well... I just want you two to quit getting in each others faces so much... That's all I ask..." he sighed, allowing her to slither up his arm and over his shoulders again as Serenity walked out of the bathroom, standing next to him with her arms crossed. "...I'm sorry..." she told the snake, glancing at her before facing away with a scowl. "Serenityyyy..." Chris said in irritation causing her to jolt and groan before facing the two, Alicia raising an eyebrow in response. "...I'm sorry. Know you not with for money..." she said with a bow. "Well of course not... If the only thing that made me stay with this fool was his money I'd have left a long time ago. How quickly you forget the conversations we've had revolving him AND the fact I've willingly remained by his side no matter the events, even fighting by your side for his sake... Your real problem is thinking you're better than us by STILL having this belief you're the only one who really cares about him... Acting like anybody but you being close to him is a crime... Prideful I may be, but a liar I am not... Sorry it isn't just the two of you anymore darling but just because he met you first doesn't mean you're better than anyone." Alicia replied, Serenity remaining silent while looking down. "We're VERY different Pokemon... Just because I say things and express myself in ways you do not doesn't make me some gold digging chunk of ice... A fool he may be, but he's a fool I'm thankful for nonetheless... He just so happens to come with a few perks is all..." she added, looking at Chris as he smiled and nodded causing her to face away with a scowl and another blush while rubbing his cheek with her tail.

"Alright, alright... Let's put it behind us now... We've got a crazy mansion to explore." he told the girls, putting a hand on Serenity's shoulder with a nod. "I'm proud of you... Well done." he told her before rubbing Alicia on the head. "All of you know I don't play favorites. You're equally important, no matter when it was we met or how long we've been together. Never forget that. Nobody is better than anyone in this family... Always equal." he affirmed before opening the door, finding himself walking into one of the butlers causing him to bounce back slightly as countless staff stood at his door wide eyed, the butlers blinking in surprise as the maids flushed brightly before suddenly sprinting off and acting busy as the butler he ran into smiled nervously with a wave, noticing the others already gone before bowing and quickly running off himself. "Uhhhh... O...kay..." he muttered, carefully stepping out and looking around as the girls did the same. "Man... Gerald wasn't kidding when he said they'd be interested in us... This place must really be a bore..." he laughed nervously before shutting his door and walking along with the girls. "I know we should probably have somebody guide us around... But a place like this really makes you wanna strike out on your own, ya know?" he smirked, looking at the painting filled walls and random vases they passed, eventually reaching the entrance lobby again. "Alright... So that means it's a left from here... Straight down and another left... Then fourth door on the right... Our room..." he muttered with a nod before looking around, feeling the rail on the staircase leading to the second floor as the girls explored the lobby, Rose stopping at a large potted plant, looking around cautiously before leaning towards a leaf and taking a bite, only to jolt and let out an "URK!!" as the part she bit off fell out of her mouth and into the pot as she wiped her tongue off in disgust. Seeing this, Alicia went up and felt the plant. "It's fake... Oh that's rich..." she snickered, Rose pouting in disappointment with a "blech..." as the two walked throughout the lobby. "So weird though... I know we're acquaintances and all... But to just leave strangers to walk around their place like this..." he murmured to himself, crossing his arms. "Kind of makes me worry about them..." he laughed nervously, noticing some of the staff cleaning the area. "Still... I suppose with so many people here they'd be fine." he nodded before calling the girls, turning and bumping into Serenity who had stood behind him. "G... GEEZ!! It's a big place... Don't do that..." he sighed while clutching his chest. "At least stand BESIDE me if you wanna be close..." he told her before walking along, noticing Rose looking slightly nauseous. "Uhh... What's uh...?" he asked, pointing at the rabbit causing Alicia to snicker again and wave her hand. "Don't ask... Just a mistake is all." she replied as Rose groaned embarrassed, hiding her face with an ear. "Okay then... Well... Let's see..." he muttered, looking around trying to decide where to go first.

After walking through the mansions seemingly endless halls, they came to a fancy pair of doors with one of the guards standing before it. "Huh... What's this one...?" he asked, walking towards the towering doors as the guard looked at the group. "Master Arthur is within... You may enter but you're expected to remain silent while he's working." the guard explained before nodding and stepping aside. With a quick thanks, Chris and the girls slowly cracked the door open and peeked inside before walking in, looking around at the colossal office. Far ahead of them sat Arthur at his desk, leaning forward with his cheek rest against his hand as he spoke on the phone. Behind him was a massive fireplace, featuring a painting of him and his wife mounted high above with bookcases lining the walls and an extraordinary view of the sky via large windows above them showing Pokemon randomly flying past. "Wooow... What a place to do business..." he muttered as they walked along. Once Arthur noticed the group, he suddenly shot up in a flash, straightening his posture and clearing his throat with a sudden sharp tone in his voice. "An offer is an offer! If you want this deal you'll see to it they accept!" he warned, carrying on the conversation for a moment before finally hanging up as the group sat on the other side of his desk. "Do forgive me. People always want to coax you into increasing an offer but I'm a man with a firm foot on the floor and a tight fist when grasping for a deal. You take what I give or you lose out on the partnership of a lifetime!" he smirked, crossing his arms with a proud nod. "So, how was the room? To your liking?" he asked as the girls looked around, Chris nodding in response. "It's incredible... The hot tub was a big surprise! The fireplace and all... You're really awesome for letting us stay here like this, especially in such a fancy room." he replied, Arthur raising his head with a smirk. "Naturally! A proper man always see's to it a guest has only the best accommodations!" he said while standing and looking over paperwork, seemingly trying to show off. Seeing this, Chris looked at the girls and smiled before looking over the cluttered desk before them. "I uh... Bet it takes one heck of a guy to handle all this... You seem like you take on the kind of work most people need a whole team to keep up with... I know there's no way I could do all of THAT alone. That's pretty awesome." he complimented causing Arthur to turn away and show a secret grin. "Oh nonsense! This is nothing for a man of my skill! Why... I could handle twice this much in a single day if need be!" he gloat as the girls smiled with an "oh boy..." expression, Chris waving at them and making a silent "shh..." gesture. "Why... I remember the time I saved an entire company from going under within days. It was making a profit it hadn't seen in years after a weeks time under my charge. Any business, big or small... Toss it my way and I'll turn it into an instant success! My record has yet to fail me!" he laughed proudly, Chris motioning for the girls to clap with him. "Yes yes... I get that a lot... Thank you, thank you." he told the group, turning with a bow. "But do go on now and feel free to explore as you wish. I can't let my focus fall to shambles because of this interruption so do be sure to keep a distance from my office until my work is complete." he told the group, his phone suddenly ringing. "Ah... Never ending! Sometimes it can be such a bother having my level of success..." he gloat before sitting back down and picking the phone up, speaking with a sharp tone in his voice once again, motioning for them to leave. With a nod, Chris and the girls went for the door, thanking the guard before heading along the halls once again. Back in the room, Arthur finished his conversation and hung up with a sigh, suddenly grinning and leaning back in his chair. "The work of a team... There isn't a man alive who can keep up with me!" he laughed, remembering the groups applaud and standing with another bow with a grin on his face before making various masculine poses, thinking of himself as a man who can do the work of thousands as the guard opened the door. "Did you say something Master Arth...??" he paused, seeing the man standing on his desk and flexing, looking back at the guard silently before shooting back into his chair. "OUT OUT!!! NEVER enter my office without permission!!!" he shout in frustration, the guard quickly shutting the door and standing silently wide eyed.

"That felt good..." Chris chuckled. "Why were we clapping exactly...?" Alicia asked. "Well... It was something nice to do. That kind of stuff is as boring as it gets... Besides his dad and Angela DID want us to humor him some... It's just doing the right thing." he replied as they walked along. Looking at Serenity, she followed behind them while facing down silently, still thinking back on the lecture Chris gave. Seeing this, he stopped and turned, causing the distracted Pokemon to walk into him with a shout. "Oy oy... What's with the sulky attitude? I told you I hate unhappy faces." he told her as she poked her fingers. "Sorry..." she replied. Letting out a sigh, he shook his head and gave Serenity a pat on the shoulder. "If you're sorry then just get along better with Alicia instead of sulking over a lecture... Learn from it instead of letting it get to you." he said with a nod. "Besides, it doesn't look good having one of you walking around looking all depressed and stuff... Cheer up already. That moment's over with." he assured before pulling her into his arm for a hug and walking ahead of the girls, continuing to look around. Facing up at Serenity, Rose smiled and gave her a nudge, Alicia glancing up with a scowl before sighing with a nod. "He's quite right. Bygones and all that." she shrugged, both her and Rose walking along as Serenity nodded and followed. Looking back, Chris reached out his hand and held Serenity's, pulling her up next to him as they walked along, Rose suddenly jumping onto his back and climbing atop his shoulders with a giggle, teasing him with her ears as Alicia slithered up his staff. Letting out a sneeze, Chris scowled at the rabbit as she laughed, moving her ears for him as they made their way outside. "Alright then... Most of the mansion seems to be hallways and random rooms... Most of them seem empty though, asides the ones staff probably live in from the looks of it..." he said, walking towards the fountain and looking at the Feebas within, the fish scowling after noticing Serenity and Alicia as they hid behind Chris and stuck out their tongues, Rose jumping onto the side of the fountain and waving causing the fish to smile and continue swimming about. In the center of the fountain, the Milotic were keeping watch, glaring at Chris with their heads poking out of the water before suddenly swimming up together and towering high above him. "Ahhh... Ha ha. H... Hello..." he replied with a wave, Serenity suddenly wrapping her arms around him with a growl. Looking at each other, the two Milotic lowered their heads and looked Chris over, Serenity swiping at them in irritation from the closeness only for one of them to grab her from behind with its mouth, lifting her high into the air causing Serenity to flail and panic before it sat her down at a distance, leaving her standing in a defensive stance only to blink confused when it left her and returned to Chris, the two eyeing him over and encircling him before returning to the water with a nod, seemingly bowing to him silently. "Nice to... Meet you...? Camilla and Alistair right?" he asked, the to nodding once more in response before lowering their heads allowing him to pet them. After doing so, they two returned to the center of the fountain once more, Serenity walking up and checking him over herself. "You okay...?" she asked as he laughed and waved a hand. "Fine fine... Just summing me up I guess... Starting to get used to that." he nodded, rubbing her on the head. "Thanks for wanting to keep me safe though, but you really need to learn how to tell whens somebody means harm or not." he reminded her before giving the Pokemon a poke on the nose and ruffling her hair, causing Serenity to step back and shout in irritation. "Again with hair!! Stop messing up hair!!" she shout. "Ha ha. That's better than seeing you sulk at least." he winked, causing her to blush slightly while scowling and fixing her now frizzy hair. Looking around, Chris sat on the edge of the fountain for a moment, thinking over what they should do next. "Gerald said he's be out here somewhere... Problem is I don't know where anything is... Where would he be...?" he asked, suddenly hearing splashing from the fountain behind him. Taking a look, the Milotic had their tails sticking out of the water, waving before suddenly pointing in the same direction together. Looking around, he found a gathering of stables in the distance. "Oh man... What a walk..." he groaned, only to notice the tails point in a different direction showing him the shuttle carts nearby. "Ooohhh... That makes it much easier!" he grinned, motioning for the girls to follow as the two Milotic raised their heads out of the water, shaking their heads with slight sweat on their faces while watching him and lowering back down into the fountain.

Optional track to LWR - Listen While Reading https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cq5yR8-2A5Y

"Aaaawesoooome... I haven't driven something in ages..." Chris laughed, climbing in and looking around as the girls sat alongside him. "You... DO know how to though... Correct...?" Alicia asked nervously. "I like jumping around... But I don't think I wanna do that in one of these things..." Rose smiled just as nervously. "He do anything!" Serenity scowled at the two. As he prepared the cart to take off, one of the butlers walked past nearby, catching Alicias attention. "I say!! Assistance please!!" she shout, causing the butler to jump in surprise and quickly walk over. "Wadaya doing...?" Chris asked, looking at her confused. "Dear human... Be a dear and chauffeur us across the way there? Our destination would be those structures in the distance." she asked as he looked past the cart with a nod. "Certainly madam. If the young sir would occupy one of the passenger seats it would be my pleasure." he smiled with a bow. Looking at him and the snake, he grumbled at Alicia before moving, sitting in a different seat with a plop and grumbling with his arms crossed. "You killjoy..." he muttered, the snake smiling with her nose up. "Safety first!" she replied as Rose rubbed his arm with a smile of her own, nodding at Alicias statement. "Bah... I coulda drove." he scowled, Serenity scratching her cheek in silence not wanting to admit a chauffeur probably WAS the better idea. Driving off, they looked at the fields and woods around them, Chris slowly overcoming his frustration and enjoying the view himself. While riding along, they passed several bushes full of berries, Chris plucking a handful along the way and checking them over before giving them to the girls as a snack, snatching a flower for each of them as well. "And... We're here! Would you like for me to wait until you're prepared to return to the manor?" he asked. About to respond, Alicia slithered atop Chris's shoulders and pushed his face aside and covering his mouth, butting in before he could speak. "Certainly! We appreciate the wait." she told him with a nod, Chris letting out an irritated growl as she stuck her tongue out at him in response and giggled. With a sigh, he nodded and motioned for the others to follow once again. "Was it necessary to get in my face like that?" he grumbled as she grinned and poked his cheek. "You're the goody goody type... Admittedly it's something I like about you for whatever reason but here that does us little good since you have a habit of refusing assistance... You just let me do the talking when it comes to the humans who work here. It's their job after all." she told him with a nod. "...Fine, but don't you shove me in the face like that again!" he lectured, waving a finger in her face as she grinned.

Looking around, they went past countless buildings of all types, each full of their own specific types of Pokemon as well! Stables full of Rapidash, Tauros, Girafarig and Stantler, aquarium buildings full of Clamperl, Kingdra, Starmie and Dratini, even rare Phione could be found! The more they looked around, the more types of buildings and Pokemon they discovered... Cages full of Pokemon such as Butterfree, Dustox, Ninjask and Vibrava, Wormadam, Cherubi... Arthur and Angela bred Pokemons of all types, for any occasion and almost every preference! Pokemon that suit gardens, Pokemon perfect for farmers, the best for sea lovers and even countless varieties for those seeking household companions! Then you had Pokemon suitable only for the highest of the high such as Arthur himself... The more they looked around, the more Chris's eyes widened. "I never thought I'd see so many in one place my whole life... You've got Pokemon from around the world in countless numbers here... And to think they breed all of them..." he muttered as the girls looked around just as surprised, slightly blushing as well. "Breed you say...?" Alicia replied, her tail swishing with a slight smirk on her face. "Lots of them here... They must mate a LOT..." Rose added, poking her fingers shyly before hiding her face behind her ears with a flustered giggle. "...When WE get to mate a lot...?" Serenity suddenly asked, holding his hand causing Chris and the girls to jump back. "Shhhhuuuushhhh!!!" he replied in embarrassment, rapidly waving his arms and looking around nervously as countless Pokemon tilt their heads curiously all around them. "N n... Not cool!! Not cool not cool!! Don't say that stuff in the open!!" he lectured, flushing as Serenity went wide eyed from his sudden reaction. "Sorry... Not have to ask if you just mate more. Professor human say you can make eggs... So make eggs!! NORMAL males not have problem doing it... You should be happy to." she argued, crossing her arms and facing away in frustration as he covered his face. "Oh God... Whyyyyy....?" he groaned, seemingly ready to steam at any second while Alicia and Rose faced away as well with flushes on their faces from remembering what the professor revealed themselves. "Well... If you're okay with it... I wouldn't mind maybe d...!!" Rose paused, cut off as Chris suddenly saw Gerald and shout his name, quickly running off to avoid the topic as Serenity stomped her foot with a loud "hrmph!!", her cheeks puffed out as Rose held her hand out, slowly lowering it and slumping while poking her fingers in disappointment from not being able to finish her sentence. "Bah... It's for the best. Don't waste your breath on the hopeless fool... I hate saying it, but that sort of thing will happen when the time is right." Alicia assured the rabbit before looking up at Serenity and shaking her head. "You truly need to learn about the proper time and place for certain topics... Some etiquette lessons would serve you rather well..." she lectured before she and Rose walked towards Chris and Geralds direction, leaving Serenity to grumble and fidget anxiously. "Shouldn't be wrong to want eggs..." she grumbled, looking around at all of the Pokemon continuing to look at her bewildered. "WHAT WANT?!! You mate nonstop so no judge!!" she shout causing them all to jump back as she stomped off towards the others. Looking at one another, they shrugged and shook their heads.

"Oooohhhh am I glad you showed up when you did..." Chris laughed nervously, shaking Gerald's hand as the girls gathered around. "Ah... Is something the matter?" he asked, blinking confused. "No no! Just uh... Glad we finally found you! So... This is what you do huh?" Chris asked as the old butler tossed seed into a large pin full of Torchic, Natu, Starly and Fletchling. "For the most part, yes indeed... A rather soothing life really... Although oftentimes I also assist the master with various business affairs... Finances and the like... And the madam entrusts me with more tasks than I can count... You could consider me the captain of the staff working for and residing within Eden Manor you could say!" he laughed proudly. "I run many things behind the scenes... But what I love most of all is tending to the Pokemon surrounding us..." he smiled, returning to a shed for a moment before coming out with more feed and heading into the woods, the group arriving at a large pond full of Swanna and Ducklett, the group noticing Goldeen and Seaking randomly swimming about as well. "Hello all! Ready for a meal?" he grinned, sitting on a bench as the Swanna and Ducklett gathered around excitedly, the fish jumping out of the pond all over the place as well. "Wow... They've really got it bad for you here!" Chris laughed as Gerald offered them handfuls of feed. "They're my family... My children... The master and his wife started this many years ago when both they and myself were rather young and it's grown and grown ever since... I'm quite proud as not only has it made things much more lively here at the manor, but the renown for our Pokemon and the profit garnered from our efforts have insured a future all the brighter for everyone here... A happy master means happy servants." he chuckled, the girls silently nodding in agreement before freezing up and tossing feed about casually when Chris looked back at them, raising a curious eyebrow before jolting in surprise when several Swanna started eating out of his hands. "Ha ha... This is kinda awesome... We stopped by the fountain on the way too. Camilla and Alistair are pretty cool when you get over how intimidating they are. They gave me this weird examination kind of thing before letting me pet them a little." he told Gerald while the butler tossed food into the pond for the fish. "Ah yes... They do that with strangers. A matter of sizing one up and determining their worth and trustability. If they let you touch them, you passed their test. Very nice. Not that I'd doubt you would have." he smirked, gathering the buckets with a sigh. "Although they're my pride and joys, all of these Pokemon are very dear to me... We always ensure they go only to the best of homes as well. Quality care while at Eden Manor, quality lives when gone. Another thing that has garnered us such a commendable reputation among Pokemon enthusiasts and countless welfare and rights agencies alike! You won't find many breeders that go as above and beyond for our Pokemon as we do. We're not your typical careless daycare! You wouldn't find me stepping into one of those locations if my life depended on it... Breeding and supplying Pokemon willy nilly. Don't get me started on what they do with eggs careless trainers refuse to take. Then you've got those poor Pokemon some leave behind... Pah." he scoffed, shaking his head. "Wow... Those places have gotten that bad huh? But... You told me to take the girls to one..." Chris reminded as Gerald returned the buckets to his shed. "Please don't get me started on those deplorable places Master Chris... They're the cause of more abuse towards these wonderful creatures than you could ever imagine. Regarding my suggestion, that's one reason I did so, to test your opinion on the matter. Luckily you gave the answer I was hoping for." he replied, shutting the shed and locking it. "That topic aside... How have you enjoyed your stay here thus far? A tad shocking I'd wager!" he laughed as they walked in the direction of the cart Chris and the girls arrived in.

Throughout the rest of the day, Gerald spent as much time as he could showing off the highlights of the land around the manor, even giving the group a detailed tour within showing off the location of a colossal library, the dazzling dining room and massive kitchen, a fancy gym... Even a gallery room featuring countless paintings and statues, each piece as priceless as the next. And it was in this room that, as the girls and Gerald finished the tour and went for the exit, Chris found himself drawn to the colossal painting of a ship, mounted high on the wall, surrounded by a silver frame with a golden plaque beneath it. Looking up, he touched the frame and walked along the wall, dragging his fingers along before focusing on the plaque. "R.M.S. Arceanic... Maiden voyage... 1912..." he murmured. "No survivors... Ship never found... Cause of loss... Uncertain... Iceberg telegram..." he continued, glancing over the information on the plaque. As the group reached the exit, they noticed Chris still on the other side of the room. About to call out, Gerald froze as Angela suddenly walked up, raising a hand and shaking her head before walking towards Chris. "Uncertain...? Why uncertain if they said they hit ice...? Shows the coordinates right there... How is it missing...?" he asked himself. Looking back up at the ship, he also glanced at the thousands of names on the plaque showing who was lost. "Man... Creepy vibes from this..." he thought to himself until suddenly feeling a hand on his shoulder. Thinking it might be a ghost, Chris let out a sudden girlish scream, the girls going wide eyed and snickering while Gerald put a pinkie in his ear with a groan as Chris jumped high in the air before turning and rapidly swinging his staff only for Angela to catch it with a calm smile. "Hello dear... Admiring the gallery are we? You've got interesting taste... Getting so drawn into this one in particular you lose awareness of that which surrounds you." she giggled as he stood frozen, looking at the end of his staff in her hand. "Wh... Woah. Nice defense." he complimented, only to shoot up and quickly pull it away. "Oh geez!! I'm sorry!! You alright?!" he panicked, repeatedly bowing while apologizing. "No need for that now. It was rude of me to walk up on you like that. A man gazing upon creations of the past should be left to ponder his curiosities without interruption. For that it is I who owe you an apology. I was simply too curious however..." she told him, standing by his side and looking up at the ship. "My ancestor was her captain... One of those... Great Great Great Grandfather situations. Tell me, why such a strong interest in a ship out of all you see here...?" she asked as he looked over the painting. "...Just a nagging feeling of importance. Something about it, I don't know..." he replied. "See... I have this knack for being drawn towards people in trouble... But that ship sank a hundred years ago. There wouldn't be anyone to help... That's what I don't get." he explained, looking at the plaque again and skimming the names. "I'm afraid I can't offer an explanation on that one dear... You're boarding the Guardian though... Perhaps the calling is meant for that ship instead?" she asked, tilting her head as he shook his head in response. "No... Because there's this feeling about the Guardian too... The exact same feeling I'm getting from the ship in this painting... It's like... They both need help maybe...?" he replied, crossing his arms. "...Gerald has told us much about you. And I'll apologize if we know things we shouldn't as a result... But this nagging feeling... Would it happen to be a certain voice in your head?" she asked, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Ah...? Oh, you know about that too huh?" he laughed nervously, looking at Gerald who quickly cleared his throat and glanced away. "Yeah, that's it alright. But it won't explain a single thing to me... Just tells me to get on the Guardian and the Arceanic will come around. Or something like that. I can't understand it very well." he sighed, shaking his head in frustration.

"From what I know that voice in your head hasn't steered you wrong yet. I'd say just go with it dear and have faith." Angela smiled, rubbing him on the head. Looking at her, Chris suddenly went wide eyed, blushing slightly and scratching his cheek shyly. "Y yeah... Thanks." he replied with a nod as she continued rubbing his head with a silent smile. Seeing him standing there accepting her touch, Serenity and Alicia grew a tad jealous as Rose smiled with an "aww" in response, Gerald putting an arm out and silently shushing the girls as Chris smiled from ear to ear. "My... What an interesting reaction. Did your mother pamper you in such a way?" Angela giggled, causing him to jolt and glance away. "Oh dear, was that wrong to bring up?" she asked, looking at him in surprise while pulling her hand away. "Ha ha, nah. Don't worry about it. Let's just say it's been a long time since I got that kind of treatment." he replied nervously, looking at the others as they waited by the door. "We should probably get going though. Still more to check out and all!" he added, bowing to Angela before waving and heading out, leaving her by the painting as Gerald and the girls followed Chris, save for Serenity who looked back as Angela looked at her hand with a silent "my oh my..." before sighing. Looking down for a moment, Serenity walked up to her and pat Angela on the shoulder. "Not your fault. He not see human mother much. She send him away lots, think of him as problem. I not see him get sad much, but seem to get sad easy when mother come up. He always want to help others. It get him into trouble when younger, she not like it so make him live with human he call old man. He raise Chris for most part. I think you touching make him feel like mother praising..." she explained before leaving and quickly catching up to the others, leaving Angela standing alone in silence as she faced down before looking back up at the painting again.

Optional track to LWR - Listen While Reading https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inUph-cYhQc

Roaming about the halls, Gerald and the girls looked at Chris in concern as he walked in silence, facing down while rubbing his head. "Are you alright sir...?" Gerald asked with a hand on his shoulder. "Eh? Oh. Yeah! Uh... Fine. Ha ha..." he replied, nodding before looking ahead. "So, we've been all over the place today... How about getting something for dinner now? Is it okay to eat yet?" he asked, Gerald nodding in response. You may eat any time of day sir. You can order a meal from your room via the phone or stroll into the kitchen and make a request. Often they have a menu set up featuring special dishes of the day and such." he smiled. Heading for the dining room, the group sat and relaxed while looking over the menu on the table, several chefs coming out to welcome them and take their orders while they chat, Chris putting the moment in the gallery behind him with his usual smile on his face once more. After they finished their orders, they continued their conversations revolving their experiences throughout the day, failing to notice Angela as she stood looking in through the doors window. "Such a happy man for such a troubled life... I bet there isn't a soul on this planet who could imagine nor' bear the pain hidden by that smile..." she said quietly. "He certainly doesn't come off as the type you would expect to see of someone abandoned by his parents." Arthur added, walking up next to her and looking in through the other door. "You say that Gardevoir there told you this?" he asked. "Yes... He was rather saddened by having his mother brought up, then she explained the issue to me in private. In what way she could mind you as her speech isn't very advanced... After what Gerald has told us about their experiences in the city and how he wound up in the hospital I can see why his parents would find themselves overwhelmed, yet at the same time to allow yourself to give up your son because of his generosity... Perhaps it puts him in harms way but shouldn't a parent be proud to have such a noble and just child? Such bravery too... Nobody goes so far out of their way to aid others in this world anymore... A son such as that should be considered a privilege." she replied, Arthur rubbing his chin. "That means he had no father either, one to look up to and admire... One to show him the ways of a man and the ways of the world around him... His grandfather is admirable for taking him in and raising him into the man he is, but that still shouldn't have to be a replacement for a true father for such a ludicrous reason..." he muttered, nodding as Angela looked at Chris and the others once more. After a moment, Arthur suddenly snapped his fingers causing one of the butlers to bring him a phone in a flash. "Darling...? What are you doing?" Angela asked, tilting her head and following her husband as he strolled down the hall. "Taking a weeks vacation. I have some calls to make and people to put in charge during my leave." he replied as she stopped in surprise. "You never take time off..." she murmured, looking at his back before looking towards the dining room doors and smiling. "I see... I think a little vacation is a grand idea." she giggled, walking up and holding Arthur's arm as he scowled and faced away embarrassed.

After a while, the chefs finally brought out the groups meals, leaving them to dine in peace with a bow. "Woooooah... This is some classy stuff... Reminds me of that theater... Opera... Thing we went to a while back..." Chris said while looking everything over, the girls too busy stuffing their faces to care about the foods appearance. "I suppose all the walking would leave one rather starved for nourishment." Gerald laughed, the girls looking at him with embarrassed scowls as he and Chris began eating as well. "So uh... About the cruise... I was wondering if..." Chris started to ask, cut off as the doors leading to the hall opened with Arthur and Angela walking in. "Do pardon the intrusion. Mind if we join you in your discussion?" Angela asked, Chris and the girls looking at one another in surprise before nodding. "Sure. Feel free." Chris replied, the two sitting across from him together. "So... What's up you guys? We haven't done anything wrong have we? I... If it's about the gallery room I apologize! I know it was rude to leave like that..." he told them with a guilty look, scratching his cheek nervously as Angela waved her hand and Arthur shook his head. "We're not bothered by that. We simply came in to have a chat. Learn some things about you." Arthur replied, looking Chris over before raising a curious eyebrow. "Tell me lad, what do you think of horses? Are you a fishing man by chance?" he asked, Chris thinking his answer over. "They're pretty cool. Never really had the chance to get close to them though. As far as fishing goes I've done my fair share of it. Used to be a great pass time for me back when I lived with the old man. Oh! On the way to the city, I even caught this huge Magikarp, there was enough to feed all of us WITH leftovers to spare!" he laughed. "Of course I buried the bones though in a nice spot... You should never waste anything nature gives you, and you should always respect what remains too." Chris affirmed, crossing his arms as Arthur smiled. "So you know the rules of the sport eh? Impressive. Not many care what happens to that which they hunt. Good lad, gooood lad." he nodded. "We've got many excellent locations to fish around the mansion, and some of the finest Rapidash you'll find in the world... What would you say to the two of us passing some time together during your stay?" he asked, raising his eyebrow once more as Chris blinked at him in surprise. "Oh uh... That would be fine by me. But what about your work? I don't wanna cause anything to get messed up!" he replied nervously. "Pish posh! No need to worry about that." Arthur assured as Angela smiled beside him. "About the gallery... Are you by chance the artistic type? Do you have any culinary skills?" she asked as Chris took several bites of his food. "Artistic? Well... I used to take photographs when I was a teenager. I'm not the best at drawing though but I can definitely take a pretty picture! I used to have them blown up to portrait sizes and gave them to the elders in the village during my stays." he grinned with a peace sign. "As far as cooking goes I'm pretty good. I used to serve all our meals before we wound up in the city." he added, continuing to eat as the two looked at one another with a nod. "If you don't mind... Could we by chance spend time together as well?" she asked, putting her hand softly on his causing Chris to jolt and blush slightly in surprise. "You seem like a really good man. It would be an honor." she giggled. "Yes, you do seem like a proper young lad. It would be a privilege for me as well." Arthur added as he looked at the two and nodded silently in response. "Then it's decided! We'll set up a few arrangements and send for you on occasion to partake in various activities during your stay!" Arthur smirked, the two standing with a slight bow. "Do enjoy your dinner, and pardon for the interruption." he told the group as they nodded and waved in response, watching the couple leave together.

"Weird... What that about?" Serenity asked, tilting her head. "Not sure... They certainly seem to be taking a liking to him though. Considering their status that's admirable... I'm proud of you." Alicia nodded, giving Chris a smirk. "They're really fancy humans. It's a little hard to understand what they say." Rose laughed nervously as Chris looking at his hand with a silent smile. "Yeah... They're not bad, huh?" he chuckled before eating once again. In the hallway, Angela and Arthur wound up running into Atticus who had been listening in on the conversation, causing Arthur to jump in surprise as the old man crossed his arms. "Trying to fill a void of your own are we?" he asked, the two looking at one another before facing away silently. "You don't intend to buy him off do you...?" he asked with a raised eyebrow. "Certainly not!! How dare you?!" Arthur replied harshly, Angela pulling him back and shushing him calmly. "Father, you know how sensitive this matter is. You know better than to make such a statement!" she lectured. "I merely wanted to make sure. Some things in this world you can't buy, and if you try to it will only cause pain in the end." he told the two. "We're going to spend some time with the man, nothing more. You hold your tongue." Arthur replied harshly before walking away in irritation. Letting out a sigh, Atticus shook his head and held Angelas hand, giving it a pat. "My dear, I know how you've both suffered over the years. This mansion, even with all it's riches within and countless staff that respect you, it's been a lonesome life nonetheless." he told her in a gentle voice. "But as your father, who wishes not to see you or your husband in pain, don't allow yourselves to grow too attached. He's only here for a week, remember that." he affirmed with a nod before walking away, feeling his way along with his staff as she stood facing down, nodding before heading in the direction Arthur went. "I must say, it's good to see the master and madam so interested in you sir. Perhaps I've told them too much about you over the course of your stay in the city?" Gerald chuckled, finishing his meal with a sigh. "It's fine. I just don't get why people as crazy rich as them are interested in someone as plain as me." Chris replied, tilting his head for a moment before shrugging and finishing his meal as well. Once everyone was done, the chefs returned for feedback, with other staff gathering the plates while they spoke. After this, the group returned to the hallway themselves, looking around as Gerald checked his watch. "Starting to dip into the evening hours... Do you mind if I journey off and finish a few other tasks before it gets too late?" he asked, Chris looking at the girls and nodding together. "Sure! We're kinda spent from being all over the place today so we'll probably just head back to our room now... Plus some things have left me a little emotionally exhausted..." he laughed nervously. "Very well then sir. Should you need anything..." Gerald replied, cut off as Chris raised his hand. "Use the phone, I know." he chuckled, the old butler nodding with a smile before waving and heading off, with Chris and the girls walking in the opposite direction. "Why emotions tired?" Serenity asked, tilting her head confused. "It's nothing really. When you suddenly have a bunch of stuff on your mind it just drains you physically at the same time. Don't worry about it. I guess maybe I'm just suddenly missing gramps a bit at the moment. Kinda thinking about stuff that hasn't crossed my mind in a looonnnng time too. All's good though." he assured, rubbing her head with a warm smile as she looked at him with a nod, showing a worried expression nonetheless, the girls doing the same. As they made their way through the hall, Atticus walked out from behind one of the giant vases lining the hall, facing the groups direction in silence having listened to their conversation. "Ah, that's right... Gerald mentioned he'd lost his grandfather as well..." he muttered, rubbing his beard while listening to the sounds of their footsteps fade. "Hmm... So the lad truly doesn't have a family asides those Pokemon..." he thought to himself.

Once back in their room, the group spent the rest of the evening enjoying the quiet, with Chris sitting out on the balcony looking towards the horizon in silent thought as the girls watched TV and looked at various books. "Something seems kinda wrong..." Rose muttered, pointing Chris out as he sighed and shook his head. "It not start until Angela talk to him and touch him... I think Arthur bothering him too..." Serenity muttered back. "Stop reading into him you two. Just leave him be." Alicia lectured while watching her shows. Eventually, several maids came in to ask if the group wanted something to drink and snack on, providing Chris with a kettle full of tea along with several cups and sugar. Nodding at them, Chris smiled as the maids tended to the girls as well and left, Alicia blinking at Chris in surprise as he sat sipping his drink. "Okay. Now THAT'S definitely different... Letting people wait on him...?" she muttered, the girls just as surprised. After a moment, all three walked out together, sitting with him as he looked blankly at the horizon. "You okay?" Serenity asked. "Uh huh." he responded. "Anything we can do...?" Rose asked, Chris giving the same response in the same tone confusing the rabbit. "Letting people wait on you, that's impressive!" Alicia smirked, once again the same response and tone coming from him causing the snake to slump as they looked at one another. For the rest of the evening, Chris remained lost deep within his own mind, the girls deciding it was best to leave him be for the time being, eventually falling asleep without him for the first time in ages... Later that night, Angela stopped by his room, knocking and looking inside only to find the girls sleeping on the bed and couch with Chris sound asleep on the balcony, his cup dangling from his finger as his arm hung from the side of the chair. Looking around, she noticed a blanket on the back of the couch, quietly picking it up and putting it over Chris while taking his cup away, Arthur and Gerald along with Atticus standing at the entrance of the room watching, and in Atticus case listening, as she rubbed Chris on the head. "Poor thing. Your parents should be ashamed... To think of what you've endured, yet still you show such a happy and carefree spirit..." she said in a quiet tone. "I do wish I could have had a child like you. It hurts to know another bore a fine young man such as yourself only to send you away. Now you own a fortune, yet you spend not a penny on yourself asides what you need to survive, even though all you carry to your name is a simple rucksack and a staff carved by..." she paused, noticing it against the railing and picking it up to look it over. "Your own hands... We know what you've done for so many in this city. Not once have you expected anything for your kindness." she added, putting the staff back before brushing the bangs from his face. "No relatives, no home. Yet still you smile, still you press onward. Most can only dream of bearing someone as extraordinary as you, yet when someone finally does, they just toss you away." she continued, shaking her head and backing away, returning to the others with a nod before leaving and shutting the door behind them.

The next day, the girls were suddenly woken when they heard a shout coming from Chris on the balcony, his chair leaning back too far sending him falling backwards with a thud, groaning and rubbing his head while wincing his eyes and looking at the sky. "...Wha? When did...?" he muttered, pulling himself up and rubbing his back. "Oh man... I actually fell asleep out here? But who...?" he asked, lifting up the blanket and looking in the room at the girls as they yawned and rubbed their eyes. "Huh. Well, still slept pretty good I guess." he shrugged, stretching himself before folding the blanket and putting it on the back of the balcony chair, grabbing his staff on his way inside. "Morning everyone! You look like you slept well too." he chuckled, causing them to blink in surprise. "What's with that response?" he asked, looking at them confused while digging for a change of clothes, asking Serenity to hold his coat for him while he went into the bathroom. "So... He's okay now?" Rose asked. "I suppose. Humans really are the strangest creatures." Alicia shrugged. Looking at the bathroom door, Serenity held up his coat, blushing slightly before pressing her face into it with a giggle. "He happy, then I'm happy." she nodded. After a moment, he returned and put his coat back on, looking around as if confused. "What wrong?" Serenity asked, tilting her head as the girls walked up. "Nothing really. Just a weird feeling for some reason." he replied, rubbing his head for a moment before heading for the door. Upon opening it, the group froze as several butlers and maids stood in the hall, about to knock and blinking in surprise. "G... Good morning sir, and madams! The master requests that you meet him at the stables post haste. Do you accept this request or should we let him know you're busy?" one of the maids asked with a bow. "The stables? Yeah, we'll go see him. But uh, might get a bite to eat first." he laughed nervously, one of the waiters from the kitchen walking up with a platter full of muffins and doughnuts, with a nurse bringing various puffs for the girls. "Already set up for you sir! You can eat while on the way, if that's alright." he smiled, the group looking at the food in surprise as other waiters brought up a glass for each of them and offered various drinks while they made their way through the hall, munching on the various sweets served on the platter. "Never head breakfast this way before... I didn't think we were supposed to eat in halls and stuff... He must be anxious." Chris smiled nervously. "Carrying all that stuff isn't bugging your arms is it?" he asked, looking at the maids and waiters as they balanced everything, shaking their heads while offering napkins. "Yeah... He's back." Alicia muttered, riding atop Serenity's shoulders while nibbling on a puff, the two nodding in response. Once outside, they gathered in one of the carts with one of the staff members already waiting at the drivers seat, casually reading a newspaper before putting it away with a bow. "Good morning to you! Master Arthur should have everything ready for you by now." he told Chris before driving off, causing the group to look at one another confused as the staff that came to get them and provided breakfast stayed behind and waved. Once at the stables, the group climbed out and looked around, spotting Gerald as he walked out of his shed and waved. "My that was quick! I was certain you and the ladies would still be resting." he chuckled as they walked up. "We actually got up just before the staff arrived... What's with the urgency? We had to eat while walking out of the manor." Chris replied, tilting his head as the girls continued nibbling on puffs they took by the handfuls. "Yes... Sorry about that. When the master wants something he's rather insistent on things happening post haste. Not one to waste time you know." he smiled, giving Chris a pat on the shoulder and an apology. Guiding them through the breeding grounds, the group finally arrived at a large corral full of Rapidash, Arthur standing against the fist and looking at his pocket watch before noticing the group.

"Excellent! I like a man who responds quickly." he smirked, turning towards the Rapidash as the group walked up. "Yeah, so what's uh... What's up?" Chris asked, looking at all of the Pokemon in surprise. "Remember our little conversation the other day? Well, a man's not a man in my opinion unless he can tame and ride one of these majestic beasts! I'd like to teach you how to do so and take you along on a ride across the grounds, get some training under your belt!" he explained, crossing his arms with a nod and a grunt. "Me? Ride one of them?!" he asked, looking at the blaze rising from their bodies with a nervous laugh. "I uh, dunno how that will work out." he replied, Arthur snapping his fingers causing Gerald to nod and push Chris towards the entrance, guiding him inside and closing him within. "H ho... Hold on a sec!! There's a ton of them in here!!" he panicked, looking at the Rapidash as they all turned to him, the girls panicking as well. "They won't harm you lad. Just relax and let them familiarize themselves with you!" Arthur assured, watching along with Gerald and the others as he smiled nervously. "H hello. Don't uh, don't trample me please." he said, waving as the Rapidash looked at one another before surrounding him and seemingly giving him an examination. "They are prideful creatures. To mount one it takes an extraordinary level of trust between the you and the beast. Fear is your enemy in this scenario, so simply relax and let their instincts do the rest!" Arthur explained, Chris nodding in response as they continued to circle him. After a moment, they started looking into his eyes, snorting in his face and looking over his staff, noticing the Key Stone and quickly backing away from it. After a moment, they backed away from him and started roaming casually throughout the corral. "Good show!! Now that they're starting to relax, mingle with them a little. But keep personal space in mind! If they want any contact, they'll give you a sign." Arthur explained, leaning against the fence. "He's doing rather well. It can be frightful to have such powerful creatures swarming you." Gerald smiled nervously. After a moment, one of the Rapidash went up to Chris, suddenly pushing him back with its snout. "Wh, whoah there! Ea, easy now!" he panicked, Arthur calling out and reminding him to keep calm as the Pokemon separated him from the others, shoving him towards the fence. "Sir... If I may... That one's the..." Gerald muttered in Arthur's ear, only to have himself nudged away. "Silence, I'm aware. Let's see where this goes." he replied, the old butler nodding with a bow and an apology. Looking up at the Rapidash now towering over him, Chris tried to hand out some hay, only for it to snatch it and toss it aside before lowering it's gaze to his level, squinting its eyes before turning its attention towards his staff, snorting against the Key Stone and looking at the girls watching nervously. "That's uh, my family out there." Chris explained, the fiery Pokemon jolting slightly and raising an eyebrow at him. "Interesting, I've never seen THAT ONE show an interest in anyone before. Since it was born not one man nor woman has been able to get close to it." Arthur muttered. After a moment, the Rapidash lowered its face towards his once more, letting out another snort before turning to the side silently. "Well I'll be... I say, try touching its mane!" Arthur shout, suddenly smiling excitedly as Chris nodded and slowly raised his hand. Seeing how slow he was behaving, the Rapidash let out a snort and shook its head, suddenly turning its rear to Chris causing him to shout and raise his arms as if about to endure a foul smelling experience, only for the Rapidash to give him several slaps with its tail, seemingly telling him "see? won't hurt." before turning back to its side, Arthur blinking in surprise before laughing along with he others as Chris scowled. "Alright, alright. So this means you trust me huh? I don't see any others like you here though." he replied, rubbing its mane as the Pokemon turned its head and nibbled at his hair. "I'll be... Out of all the others. Well then, come on out lad! Bring em' with you!" Arthur told him, motioning for Gerald to open the entrance allowing Chris to walk out with the Rapidash following by his side. "This one's pretty cool. The fire's this silver... Maybe kinda slight blue-ish color." Chris said while giving it another pet. "That's often referred to as a Shiny Pokemon actually." Arthur clarified, motioning for Gerald to return to the shed. "We've had him for years now and not a single person has been able to gain his trust. Color me impressed lad!" Arthur praised, shaking his hand causing Chris to laugh with a slight blush. "I didn't do anything special. Just stood there really." he grinned as Arthur shook his head. "Oh no. You may have just stood there, but for one of these Pokemon to trust you it takes a very special type of man, and for this one in particular to do so certainly earns you recognition." he replied, giving Chris a pat on the back. "Good lad! Very good lad!" he laughed as Gerald returned with another Rapidash from the stables, a pair of saddles resting on its back.

As the girls watched, Arthur showed Chris how to attach the saddle before coaxing him into climbing atop its back. Handing Gerald his staff, he gave it a shot only to send himself up one side of the Pokemon and flying off the other, landing with a thud on the ground and groaning. "Do be careful how you swing yourself over now. Slow and steady wins the race, although I appreciate the eagerness." Arthur instructed, helping him climb up and balance himself. "Theeeere you go. Now THAT'S how a man looks!" he laughed, stepping back as Chris clutched the saddle nervously. Looking back at him, the Rapidash also glanced at where he fell over onto the ground and shook its head with another snort, seemingly questioning its judgement. "Hey gimme a break! It's my first time." he scowled, the Pokemon rolling its eyes with a "whoo boy..." type of response as Arthur readied his Rapidash and climbed atop its back with ease while Gerald prepared their reins, Chris's horse snorting in the old butlers face in irritation before letting him put the reins on and handing them to Chris. "You've done well so far! Many people fall off countless times their first try. Now, the real challenge can begin." he smirked, riding up next to Chris while explaining how to control his Pokemon, Gerald backing away and standing with the girls with a smile. "Alright lad, you understand? Just follow my lead, nice and easy." he nodded before riding his Rapidash along, Chris laughing nervously and doing the same, albeit clumsily as he wobbled on his saddle, clutching the reins desperately as Arthur explained how to balance himself better and how to turn various directions, the two Rapidash looking at one another and nodding in a "sup?" manner during the explanations. "There you go. Yes! That's it! Now just keep em' steady, watch out for that there. Good, good!" Arthur grinned as Chris maneuvered his Rapidash past several trees and bales of hay. As the others watched, the girls saw Chris grinning and laughing more and more, Arthur finding himself all the more amused as well seeing him enjoying himself and learning so quickly. "Not see him look like that before." Serenity pointed out. "Well, we've seen him when relatively happy, but never as amused as this I agree." Alicia nodded. "I'm glad he's having such a good time after last night." Rose added, smiling as she tried some of the hay herself. "Last night...? What happened?" Gerald asked, the three jolting in response as Rose covered her mouth. "Oopsie... Um, he was just kinda gloomy is all. After he spent time with that human and the female human he seemed sad suddenly. He just sat outside like he was thinking about lots of stuff. We couldn't even get him to talk much." she explained, Gerald raising an eyebrow and rubbing his chin. "But he's happy now! Nothing to worry about!" she giggled as the two started riding at a faster pace, eventually galloping along. "Alright lad, think you're ready to give em' a proper test run?" Arthur grinned before commanding his Rapidash to race forward, Chris blinking in surprise before looking at his own Rapidash, the two nodding before he sent it racing along as well. "That's it!! Excellent, excellent!! Let's go show off shall we?" Arthur laughed, Chris grinning with a nod in response as they rushed towards the manor together.

"Aaaannnnd we're left behind..." Alicia sighed, crossing her arms with a scowl. "Well that hurt feelings." Serenity added, slumping as Rose watched the two turn into dots in the distance, sulking slightly as well. "Oh come now ladies. I think we can all agree it's grand to see him so happy." he grinned, getting a simultaneous nod from the girls in response. Returning to the carts, Gerald and the girls rode their way back to the manor, waiting near the front steps while Chris and Arthur raced around the colossal structure. "My word, he's acting as if he were a child again!" Angela laughed, walking down towards the group. "Hello madam! Good to see you." Gerald smiled, holding her hand with a bow as she stood alongside them. "It's delightful to see such spirit in Arthur again... He's always so dreadfully lonesome and bored nowadays, much like myself really... It warms my heart to see him having such a grand time." she giggled. "Lonely...? With everything you possess and all of these humans serving you?" Alicia replied, raising an eyebrow. "Oh heavens yes. All the money and all the servants in the world mean nothing compared to having a child of your own. For years and years we'd hoped so fervently to have one, but sadly it was never meant to be." she replied, putting a hand on her stomach and facing down sadly. "Long ago, we were told after trying for some time that I was incapable of bearing children... Dear Arthur was instrumental in aiding me through that dreadful discovery but it hurt him just as badly. He'd so hoped to have someone to look up to him in life, but his heart was bound to mine so strongly he couldn't see himself leaving for such a reason, so he gave up his dreams of having a child as well and remained by my side." she sighed, watching as he and Chris raced past once again. "We tried adoption, but sadly none of the children worked out for one reason or another. Eventually we felt it best to simply continue surrounding ourselves with servants and Pokemon we could care for as family instead." she added. "Never forget what I've told you... There are no riches in this world that can compare to your own child. None." she affirmed, the girls nodding as she sat on a nearby bench, Chris and Arthur noticing the group and finally galloping up, the two laughing and talking while climbing off their Rapidash. "Angela darling this lads a hoot and a half!" Arthur laughed, slapping Chris on the back. "He was a tad shaky at first, but he got the hang of riding this magnificent creature rather quickly. And look, look I say! See who it is that chose him?! All these years and finally he has a rider!" Arthur grinned, pointing out the Shiny Rapidash and laughing once again. "Oh my, I haven't had such an amusing race in ages." he smirked, nodding proudly with a hand on Chris's shoulder causing him to grin flattered. "I it, it was nothing once I learned to balance. We just made some laps around the manor is all." he replied, waving his hand. "Oh nonsense! You did well for your first time! Rarely does it occur that my expectations are surpassed. I congratulate you on that. Well done, well done indeed!" Arthur praised, causing Chris to grin all the more from the praise. "Do be careful darling, you spoil a man that way..." Angela cautioned, looking at Chris with a giggle. "But my you do look happy. I'm glad you've enjoyed your time with my dear Arthur. Thank you." she nodded, Chris blinking at her confused. "Why thank me for it? He's a pretty cool guy! You should have seen some of the tricks he can do on that Pokemon, it's take someone like me years to do half the stuff he can." Chris replied as Arthur chuckled with a proud smirk. "Naturally! I dare you to find another rider with even half my skill." he gloat, Angela shaking her head with a "tsk tsk" in response. "It's unbecoming to boast darling." she lectured causing Arthur to jolt and laugh nervously. "He's got a right to in my opinion. I really appreciate you letting me try that!" Chris thanked, shaking Arthur's hand. "Thank you for accepting the offer lad. You've got the makings of a quality rider yourself!" he nodded, putting an arm around Chris with a thumbs up before patting him on the back once more and returning to the Rapidash, summoning some of the staff to help him return the Pokemon to the corral. Watching him and the staff leave with the horses, Chris continued to grin and blush as Gerald brought his staff up. "My my, such a happy face." he chuckled as the girls surround him with curious looks. "B, bah. Come on, don't embarrass me!" he replied, waving his hand as Angela smiled with a nod. "Well then, I'd hate to be a bother but do you think you could spend some time with me for just a short while?" she asked as the girls started to speak, only to find themselves cut off before saying a word as Chris turned his attention to her in surprise, nodding in response while offering a hand to help her up. "Oh my, delightful courtesy." she giggled, taking his hand and standing with a nod. "Shall we be on our way to the kitchen then? You did mention you had talent preparing meals. Care to help me cook up something sweet? I think a cake would do wonderfully!" she asked. "Cake? Well, now and then I've tried making sweets. I could give it a shot." he nodded before the two walked off, the girls left behind once more with Gerald while watching Angela rub Chris on the head again. "Such a good man. You've really made this place lively again." she giggled, causing him to smile shyly and nod blushing once more. "It's nothing. Happy to be here!" he grinned as they went inside the mansion. "He leave us behind again..." Serenity muttered, facing down with a somber look, the girls doing the same as Gerald smiled and pat them on the head. "Don't you worry ladies. The lad's just enjoying himself for a change. You can't deny the fact he deserves to be pampered himself just a tad. He's done a lot for others, let him enjoy something he's lacked for just a little while, hmm?" he asked as they looked at him, facing the entrance again. "We family too. He not lack anything." Serenity replied crossly, crossing her arms. "Oh madam. You know he loves you more than one could imagine. But there's a difference, you see? No matter how much one cares for another, it can never replace the affection from a parent. To be loved by them, to be praised. I'd wager this is something he hasn't experienced before... At least not very much. And his presence does make the master and his wife oh so happy." Gerald explained, smiling once again. "You've said it yourself, he's always giving to others madam. Is it wrong for him to enjoy such a feeling?" he asked, Serenity looking back at him silently before sighing and lowering her arms to her sides. "No. It not..." she replied, walking up the stairs as the others remained together. "That one sure is jealous." Alicia said, shaking her head. "Well, I'm kinda jealous too. I wouldn't mind him smiling like that at me too." the rabbit confessed, poking her fingers with a guilty look. "I know that's bad to say though. But it sure would be nice if we could make him look that happy..." she added, Serenity stopping and looking down for a moment before continuing her way up the stairs, the others following.

Heading towards the kitchen, the girls watched through the windows as Chris and Angela stood among the chefs, the group explaining how to make the cake they wanted as Angela inched away and grabbed an icing gun, calling Chris only to squirt the icing on his nose when he turned around causing the staff to laugh as he blinked in surprise, wiping it off and putting the icing on her nose instead causing Angela to jolt in surprise, the staff going silent with nervous looks only to hear her start laughing while getting a napkin to wipe it off, everyone sighing in relief as she and Chris continued talking and going over instructions, the staff bringing ingredients as they started mixing things together. "The madam in the kitchen..." Gerald muttered, watching with a surprised look on his face, the girls watching with Rose lift in his arm and Alicia over Serenity's shoulders. After a moment, the girls started chatting amongst one another, pointing things out in the kitchen while Chris and Angela baked inside. Eventually, the cake was finished and ready for decorating, and together they covered it in white frosting, Chris trying to learn how to make flowers only for most of them to turn out looking like blobs, Angela working with him until they managed to make a descent rose on top of the cake. "That's it! You've got it! Granted it was on the last try, but well done!" she clapped, Chris rubbing the back of his head embarrassed. "This is a LOT harder than it looks. You're pretty awesome being able to make everything look so perfect." Chris replied, looking over Angela's work as she waved her hand with a blush. "Oh dear, it's nothing at all. My mother and I used to do this all the time when I was a child. Think of it as riding a bike, you never forget." she explained. "I was far worse than you when I gave it my first shot. I think you did just fine." she nodded with a warm smile, Chris grinning once more as they cut pieces off to try, offering portions to the staff as well. Watching everyone eating cake without them and looking happy together, the girls backed away from the door, sitting at nearby benches silently. "Oh heavens..." Gerald muttered as the girls sulked. "Oh, hang on a sec!" he heard, looking in the kitchen as Chris picked up the platter holding the remainder of the cake with the rose on top. "If it's okay, can I save this for the girls? I kinda wanna show off this part and see what they think." he grinned, the staff nodding as Angela gave him another rub on the head. "Such a sweetheart. Of course." she giggled as he put the remainder on a smaller platter and covered it with a lid. "I kinda owe em'. I get the feeling they might start thinking they're easy to forget about since I've kinda left em' behind all day, what with all the excitement going on I did get wrapped up in things I'll admit." he confessed, Angela jolting with an "oh dear..." in response, showing a guilty look and apologizing as Gerald crossed his arms with a smirk. "Atta' boy lad. Good man..." he praised quietly, backing away from the door as Chris and Angela made their way towards them. "I do apologize, it was rude of us to let your Pokemon feel left out because of our enthusiasm." Angela said as they walked out. "Nah, it's been a blast today! Riding those Rapidash and making an awesome cake. You two are the best!" he laughed, Angela blushing with a surprised look as he walked up to the girls who were too busy sulking to notice him as he stopped and cleared his throat causing them to jolt and look up in surprise. "Ladies, dessert is served!" he grinned, taking the lid off the cake with a bow showing off the rose to them, their eyes going wide and slightly blushing as he smiled warmly and put it on the small table in front of them. "Sorry for getting so caught up in stuff. I didn't mean to make you sad." he apologized with a guilty smile, the girls quickly shaking their heads and waving their hands. "Angela helped make this. Most of my icing didn't turn out so well since I don't really make cakes but since this part turned out the best I thought you'd like it. After all, you deserve the best!" he grinned as they flushed all the more, watching as he cut the remainder of the cake evenly and sat with them, offering to feed them as Gerald and Angela watched. "Oh I do feel dreadful about the poor dears being left behind." she confessed, the old butler shaking his head and patting her on the shoulder. "Worry not madam, they may be a tad jealous but at heart I do believe they understand. You and the master have made him very happy, they know this and appreciate it deep down rest assured. They're just wary because of their experiences of the past. They merely needed a touch of reassurance is all." he nodded with a thumbs up as Chris continued feeding them, each showing a bright smile on their faces from the attention. "So, not bad eh?" he asked, the three nodding in response and letting out satisfied sighs. Once they were finished, Chris stood and cleaned off the table, Alicia suddenly slithering up his side and resting across his shoulders with her head held high, brushing his cheek with her tail as Serenity and Rose each grabbed an arm, a smile on their faces causing him to smile embarrassed. "C, come on now. I haven't been busy THAT long." he laughed, the three continuing to enjoy the closeness with him nonetheless.

"Oh yeah! Saved a piece for your husband and Gerald too." Chris told Angela, putting the lid over the remaining pieces and handing it to her. "Eh? Ah! Yes, I'm sure he'll appreciate it!" she smiled with a nod, handing the platter to Gerald as he looked at the pieces within. "Oh my, thank you Master Chris." he replied, bowing as he waved a hand in response. "No need. You guys are great, so it's the least I could do. Thanks again for the lesson too Angela! Make sure Arthur gets another thanks from me as well." he grinned with a thumbs up. Watching Chris giving the cake away and listening to them talking about their thanks, the girls also looked at one another silently, backing away from him and gathering together to talk while Chris and the others were preoccupied. "Now that think of it, what we do to thank?" Serenity asked as she and Rose squat down to Alicia's level. "Indeed. Granted we've allowed ourselves to partake in certain... Activities, but admittedly we've not done much to reciprocate all he's done." Alicia nodded. "But what should we do to tell him thank you? Everyone keeps saying he doesn't like it when people do stuff for him." Rose reminded, the girls groaning and nodding. "Well, admittedly he has a habit of turning down rewards for what he does, but surely he wouldn't object to a surprise of SOME kind." Alicia replied, the three thinking for a moment before glancing back at the others. "What if we... Make food?" Serenity suggested, pointing out the platter. "Ahh, not a bad idea. The only problem is..." the snake replied as they looked at one another. "How do you cook?" they asked simultaneously, sitting together with a groan. "Beg pardon? Did you mention something about cooking?" one of the waiters asked, stepping up behind them as they jolt in surprise and looked up. "Do forgive me, I was on my way to start my shift. You say you wish to cook?" he asked, the girls looking at one another nervously before facing the waiter and nodding. "Well, if you would allow it, I'd be happy to discuss it with the chefs and see if something could be arranged. Are you wishing to do so as a pastime, or would it be a specific occasion?" he asked, squatting down as well while they talked. After a moment, Chris finished his discussion with Gerald and Angela, the three waving at one another before the two went off towards Arthur's office, Chris turning and blinking in surprise as the girls chat with the waiter. "Uhh... Hey everyone, what's up?" he asked, the girls screaming in surprise and shooting up on their feet causing him to jump back startled. "G, geez! Don't do that!" he shout as they laughed nervously, the waiter raising up as well and clearing his throat. "Do forgive me sir. I must be on my way." he bowed, Chris giving him a lost look while waving. "Yeah, see ya..." he replied, watching the waiter enter the kitchen before turning back to the girls, noticing they were already walking off. "Okaaaaay. Weird, but okay." he muttered, scratching his head and following as they looked at one another, grinning with a finger over their mouths.

Optional track to LWR - Listen While Reading https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWySPOTwga0

Over the next several days, Chris continuously spent time with Arthur and Angela, enjoying photography sessions in the bordering woods, several rides across the grounds on the Rapidash, even learning various things about the business world, with Arthur taking Chris to several of his offices and other various establishments throughout the city, Angela insisting she introduce him to those at her countless diners and fashion boutiques as well, both showing him off with pride while the girls usually remained at the manor, keeping themselves preoccupied with their efforts at learning how to cook with the chefs. Before anyone knew it, his final night at the manor before the cruise had come, and to celebrate how much they had come to appreciate him, Angela and Arthur along with Gerald set up a grand gathering to honor his departure, everyone he had been introduced to showing up and enjoying the atmosphere, including those he had helped during his stay in the city, arriving via special invitations from Gerald! Suit up in the finest tuxedo, Chris found himself constantly surrounded by people wanting to shake his hands and speak with him as he tried to find the girls, Arthur and Angela keeping an eye on him during the event with smiles on their faces. "What a delightful week this has been..." she giggled, Arthur nodding in agreement. "It went by all too fast my dear... All too fast..." he sighed. Meanwhile, Gerald was standing by the horderves along with countless other staff, enjoying the various options for attendees and watching as Chris made his way over. "Good to see you sir! And might I say how well you pull off that outfit? Quite striking indeed!" he laughed, offering some food. "Thanks, but what I'm really wondering right now is..." he paused, looking around concerned. "Where are the girls...? I hope they didn't get lost, or taken..." he said, letting out a worried groan before nibbling on a tiny sandwich. "Oh no sir, rest assured nothing of the sort has happened. Especially with so many here aware of who you and they are. Nobody would dare touch them." he assured, patting Chris on the shoulder. "That aside, you've seemed rather anxious to speak with me, more-so the past day or two... What's on your mind sir?" he asked curiously causing Chris to jolt. "That's right!! The ship we're heading off on tomorrow... Come with us!" he grinned, taking Gerald's hand and shaking it excitedly. "I'll cover it! Round trip and everything! First class... Fine dining..." he added, Gerald blinking at him before showing a guilty look. "M, Master Chris... Master Chris. M, Master Chris...?" he tried to say, unable to get a word out as Chris continued talking excitedly, shaking his hand nonstop. "M, Master Chris? Master Chris...? MASTER CHRIS!!!!" he suddenly shout aloud, causing the lobby to go silent and look at them as Chris jumped in surprise, loosening his grip on Gerald's hand allowing him to pull free while looking at him wide eyed. "W, woah. Easy there, no need to shout and look all serious." he laughed nervously in response, Arthur and Angela walking up and watching. "Master Chris, as much as I've come to appreciate you, I can't accept your offer. My place is here..." he replied. "Oh come on, a vacation couldn't hurt right? You're like a second gramps to me! It'll be a blast!" he grinned, Gerald jolting wide eyed before facing down with guilt on his face, Arthur and Angela looking at one another with "uh oh..." expressions. "So...? Wadaya say? Come along?" he asked, showing another smile only for Gerald to shake his head. "I'm sorry sir. I can't go with you." he repeat, Chris's smile fading as he tilt his head. "Why not? I'm sure they'd give you a vacation!" he assured, the old butler looking at him silently before putting a hand on his head. "Master Chris, serving you while here has been the greatest pleasure of my life. You and the ladies by your side, it's been an honor you can't fathom." he said before shaking his head again. "But please understand, I've already been gone from here so much as-is, it's time for me to return to my duty here at the manor. Did you not see how the Pokemon have been reacting to my presence? I told you I'm like a father to them, and I've been gone long enough." he explained. "Please believe me when I say I truly think the world of you, but there are so many who rely on me here, not just the Pokemon. I'm ready to return to my ultimate purpose here at Eden Manor, just as you're ready to move on to your next grand adventure." he added, taking a step back with a bow. "I cannot apologize enough for this. You're an extraordinary young man, but our time was only to consist of your care while within the city, leaving means we must part ways as well." he finished, looking at Chris again before putting a hand on his shoulder and walking off, Arthur and Angela seeing the tearful look on the old butlers face as he passed before they looked at one another again in concern.

Remaining where he was, Chris faced down in silence as the crowd started turning away, Arthur and Angela about to walk up only to pause when they saw Atticus walk up to him, tapping his way along while everyone watched in surprise as the old man gave him a hug out of nowhere. "There there lad, no sadness on this night." he told Chris, patting him on the shoulder and lifting his chin. "Can you not see that here which I sense so clearly? So many happy spirits, all gathered together because of you! This is a celebration, honoring the joy you've brought to this city." he paused, shaking Chris's hand with a smile. "And to my family. After all the happiness you've created, don't let yourself feel so badly over such trivial things as farewells. It's not becoming of a man!" he lectured, waving a finger as Chris looked at him in surprise. "After all you've done, especially for my Geegee and her Dodo over there..." he added, Angela smiling nervously as Arthur grumbled. "You should stand with your head held high, proud of all you've accomplished here. You and Gerald may be parting ways, but farewells rarely last forever, and the thing about them is they always open the path towards new greetings! The saying friends come and go is tried and true, but family stick with you no matter what and will always be there, be them in person or spirit. I know little of your past and those kin to you, but rest assured lad, even if not by blood, you're already amassing a new family, one that will only keep growing in numbers over time." he paused as Arthur and Angela walked up, smiling as the crowd did the same. "As you journey through life, you're going to work many miracles, meet many faces, and at the end of your path awaits a destiny so extraordinary it's blinding. And trust me, I know blind!" he laughed as Chris looked at everyone, Atticus suddenly facing a different direction with a "hmm?" before smiling. "And with that little speech complete, I'll be on my way. Do keep in mind what I've said, and no more sadness, understand?" he reminded, patting Chris on the head before walking off, the crowd parting to allow him passage. Watching him leave, Chris waved in surprised, a quiet "T-thanks..." given as Angela walked up. "That's how father is. A speech for any occasion." she giggled. "I'm getting rather tired of his nickname." Arthur grumbled, walking up as well. "Oh come now, you know he cares for you as well. Let him have his fun in his old age." she replied. "Old age?! I'm not exactly a spring Combusken myself you know!! I've a right to be called by a proper title!!" he argued, Angela sighing and shaking her head as Chris smiled nervously. "Father's right though. You just keep your chin up, alright? You've done so well by staying as strong as you have, so you just keep sticking to the positives in life no matter what happens. Never let your wonderful heart and admirable spirit falter dear. It may be hard sometimes, like when telling someone you care for deeply goodbye... But you must stay strong, and never let go of that light inside that guides you forward. No matter how hard it may be to let some things go along the way..." she told him before pulling him in for a hug herself, Chris freezing up wide eyed as the crowd watched just as surprised, tears suddenly appearing in the corner of his eyes. With the feeling of a motherly embrace now holding him close, his staff slipped from his hand, Arthur quickly catching it as Chris put his arms around Angela, the crowd and staff showing touched expressions as she giggled and muttered "there there..." while rubbing his head. Enjoying the feeling for a moment, Chris suddenly jolt and quickly stepped back, wiping his eyes and regaining himself. "S-sorry. Sorry. Just uh, sorry." he said, motioning for his staff. "Bah, it's alright lad. A real man does many things in life, be it supporting those he loves, riding majestic beasts, and crying is on the list too." Arthur told him while handing over the staff, pulling him under an arm and patting his shoulder with a nod. "Good man, good man..." he chuckled, backing away alongside Angela as he took a deep breath and relaxed. "Man, not sure what got into me there but that felt pretty heavy!" he laughed embarrassed, the two looking at one another and grinning before ruffling his hair simultaneously.

After several minutes of talking among the attendees, several chefs suddenly came in from the hall, gathering everyone's attention before waiters brought in something massive covered by a thin sheet, working together to bring it into the center of the lobby whilst other waiters quickly set up a table, helping them put the mysterious object on top before backing away with sighs of relief. "If all of you would be so kind as to grant us a moment of your attention, we have a very special masterpiece delicately, and quite lovingly might I add, prepared for Master Chris! Please come up sir!" the chef asked, Chris looking around confused before walking up. As the chefs and waiters gathered around him and spoke, several butlers secretly brought the girls into the lobby, shushing the crowd while sneaking them up behind Chris, leaving them standing silently. "And so, without further ado... Your surprise Master Chris!" the chef shout as the waiters pulled the sheet away revealing a towering four layer cake, covered by a massive glass dome the staff had to work together using ladders to remove before flipping a switch on the table that made it slowly rotate. All over the cake there were tiny figurines of Chris and the girls showcasing various events they had experienced together, with each layer featuring one of them specifically in their various evolution's leading up to the top where they were grouped together. On the bottom layer, Chris saw recreations of events between him and Serenity, one scene showing him climbing the side of the cake with Serenity in his arm, another of them sitting at a fire eating, one of them in the Mankey hot spring and another showing Chris giving her the badge from Guile while she sat on a bench, another showing her looking at him for the first time and several of him showing her affection and praise. On the second layer, the focus turned to Alicia, with a scene showing him finding her in his rucksack, another of him feeding her cradled in his arm, one of the two running together training and of her wrapped around him just after evolving, one of him dancing with her in his arms and others showing the two enjoying other moments together. Then on the third layer Rose was featured, showing him stepping in to help her back in Saga City the first time they met, showing the front of a truck heading for them with her in his arms, another of her in a center bed getting a visit and of her standing ready to fight in her Mega Form, and of the most recent event between the two sitting outside of the lab together. At the very top, Chris was in the center holding his staff proudly in the air over his head, Serenity leaning against him with her back to his and Rose holding onto his arm, Alicia standing in front with her nose proudly in the air looking back at him. "What's...?" he muttered, looking the cake over awe struck as he felt a tap on his shoulder. Turning around, he saw the girls as Serenity and Rose held what looked like a huge rolled up scroll between them. Nodding, the two walked away from one another, pulling it open revealing "Thank You" and "Love You" scribbled poorly, along with their names he'd given scribbled on the sheet even worse, yet still readable even if barely as they looked away embarrassed. "Human writing... Hard. We do best... It okay?" Serenity asked, glancing at him shyly as he looked over the writing and cake. "You girls... All this?" he asked in shock, the three nodding in response as the head chef walked up. "Ze' mademoiselle's wanted to provide an exquisite surprise for ze' man they love! Ze' man who is not only their friend, but grande hero as well! You like, oui sir?" he asked with a grin. "Ze mademoiselle's, they tried SO hard to improve their culinary skills in what time they had here with us. And the writing, admittedly it is still ce n'est pas terrible, that is, not so good... But it is much better that when they started! Every day they practiced and practiced until their fingers were ready to peel like a banana. You should be VERY proud of the mademoiselle's sir, they do think SO highly of you!" he added, patting Chris on the shoulder. "Admittedly we did help with ze cake itself, but rest assured they played a major part in its creation every step of ze way. They were insistent over the matter, so ze cake is really from them more-so than us as well. As you can see, they wished to rappeler des souvenirs using this culinary masterpiece, that is how you say... Recall memories, their favorite ones of their time with you! We had our finest sculptors create the figurines on ze cake. We do hope it came out to your liking!" the chef bowed before stepping away as everyone gathered around the cake to look over the figurines themselves.

Looking at everything they had done, Chris started welling up with tears once again, due to everything Angela had said and done on top of her family still on his mind and now the girls actions to top it off. Looking at one another concerned, they walked up to Chris only for him to suddenly yank Serenity and Rose into his arms, dropping to his knees and pulling Alicia in as well as he sobbed. Looking at one another, the girls smiled and hugged him back, the crowd swooning over the scene as he gave each of the girls several kisses on their cheeks before releasing them and backing away, wiping the tears from his eyes and clearing his throat embarrassed. "Y-you... You did g-good. Thank you. It's awesome!" he told the girls, his cheeks and nose slightly flushed from crying as he smiled, the group nodding and smiling in response. Turning to the cake, he continued looking over the various scenes, jolting when Serenity suddenly hugged him from behind, resting her cheek against his back as Rose held his hand and snuggled against him, Alicia slithering up his staff and over his shoulders before rubbing her cheek against his, showing a thumbs up and holding her head high while brushing his cheek with her tail. As everyone enjoyed the atmosphere and started preparing the cake to eat, Gerald sat in a nearby hall wiping his eyes with a handkerchief, trying to collect himself as Atticus tapped his way along and up to the emotional butler. "I thought I heard something. Come now, what's this then?" he asked, causing Gerald to jolt and shoot up. "M-my apologies sir!" he shout nervously, only for Atticus to shake his head and pat Gerald on the shoulder. "Oh come now, do sit down." he replied, Gerald letting out a sigh before doing so and wiping his eyes once more. "Worry not old friend, the lad will be just fine. He's got countless friends surrounding him and he's in the care of those extraordinary girls. He's well taken care of." Atticus assured. "Yes yes, you're right. His grandfather comment merely shook me up was all. To have him think so highly of me was unbearably touching, it made turning down accompanying him make me feel as if I were suddenly no different than his parents. You don't think he considers me the same as them now do you?" he asked, Atticus chuckling and shaking his head. "He's a good lad, he understands how much the Pokemon here love and need you, as well as my son-in-law and daughter. For him to have you follow across the sea would make him feel worse than saying goodbye. Better to tell one man farewell than the thousands here who need and miss you so much as-is. He knows this, rest assured." Atticus nodded, patting him on the shoulder once again. "Yes... Thank you sir." Gerald replied, standing with a bow before fixing his suit and tucking away his handkerchief. "It's just as I told the lad, farewells are rarely forever. You two will meet again, of that I'm sure. When is the mystery, but it brings ease to the heart nonetheless." Atticus chuckled. "Come now, accompany me to my room. We'll bring out some of my favorite spirit whilst talking of happy times, what say you old boy?" Atticus laughed, patting Gerald on the back as they walked off. "Yes... I think a little spirit would do wonders right now." he nodded in response, bowing his head and giving his thanks.

The next day, Chris and the girls looked all over the mansion and breeding grounds trying to find Gerald, only for the old butler to have seemingly vanished overnight. "I don't get it, we're about to leave! Where did he go?" Chris said nervously, as they walked up to the fountain in front of the mansion, a limo driving up to take them off to where the S.S. Guardian was waiting. At the doors before them, Arthur and Angela along with countless staff came out to bid the group a fond farewell, surrounding him and shaking their hands as Arthur and Angela walked up to Chris. "We do hope you'll return to stay with us again soon... Forgive me for being so bold, but you've truly become the son we never had..." Angela smiled as Arthur rummaged through his coat. "Ah!! Here you go lad, I believe this will be of use to you on your journey." he smirked, handing Chris a Pokedex of his own. "Oh no way!! These things are supposed to have everything!" he replied wide eyed, taking it and looking it over. "I hear they've got holographic phone lines or something nowadays. You can make calls, pay for stuff, order stuff. You can do almost anything with em' now..." he muttered, the Pokedex suddenly opening and displaying a hologram of him and going over its registration information, calling out his name as the girls looked at it wide eyed. "Tiny Chris..." Serenity pointed out. "He looks cute!!" Rose giggled, Alicia tilting her head. "Humans never cease to surprise me." she smirked. "You can use that to contact anyone you wish at any time, and it's also a handy form of I.D. as well! Do be sure to get in touch with us from time to time and tell us about your travels." Arthur told him with a pat on the shoulder. "Yeah, definitely." Chris replied, still looking it over and going through all the apps, Arthur and Angela looking at one another with wide smiles. "Are you that easily impressed lad?" he laughed, Chris jolting and grinning with an embarrassed blush. "Sorry. I've never had something like one of these before so it's amazing." he replied as he let the girls hold it and look over it as well and jolting when it suddenly flashed. "Serenity, formerly known as Gardevoir, the embrace Pokemon. Alicia, formerly known as Servine, the grass snake Pokemon. Rose, formerly known as Lopunny, the rabbit Pokemon! Together, these three Pokemon belong to this Pokedex registered owner, Chris. This Pokedex is programmed to provide the following chip to Rose on behalf of the Millennium Towers Laboratory to ensure her safety." the device said, a tiny compartment on the side suddenly popping open revealing one of the anti-capture chips already attached to Serenity and Alicia's badges. "Oh man, coooool!!" Chris grinned, the girls handing it back as he took the chip from the compartment and looked over the device excitedly. "You guys thought of everything with this thing! Already set up, knows their names and all... Sweet!" he laughed, walking up to Rose and attaching the chip to the back of her badge. "Man, I'd completely forgotten about getting one for her after all the excitement. Is the professor the best or what?" he chuckled.

"This Pokedex also has a message for its registered owner Chris from Professor Rose, will you accept this message now?" it asked, Chris and the girls looking at the device confused before nodding. "Yeah, go ahead." he replied, the device flipping open causing a hologram of the professor to flash into view. "Hey there buddy! Congratulations again on winning your freedom back! Arthur and Angela had us put this together just for you, so make sure you take good care of it along your journey! We're sure gonna miss you lot here at the lab, and we can't thank you enough for helping us develop the Celebi project as well! We'll do our best to make sure it benefits the world as quickly as possible, so you do us a favor in return and keep doing your best to help the world yourself! We're all behind you so put your best foot forward and keep wowing this world one miracle at a time!" she grinned, tossing up a peace sign. "We'll never forget what you've done for all of us. Unfortunately after a little incident we've lost all of our research on you so we can't prove what we've learned about the relationships between us and Pokemon, but we'll keep doing whatever it takes nonetheless to find our own evidence to back up our knowledge no matter what! You take care now, and smooth sailings!" she grinned, pulling off a solute before the hologram flashed away and the Pokedex shut. "Well then lad, best be on your way!" Atticus chuckled, walking up between Arthur and Angela. "Your tasks are complete and your time here is done. Time to set sail towards new beginnings before your ship heads off without you!" he smiled, patting Chris on the shoulder. Looking at one another, Angela and Arthur walked up and gave him a hug, ruffling his hair before backing away with proud smiles on their faces. "We're going to miss you so. Please stay safe and get in touch with us as soon as you can." Angela giggled. "Indeed, you've been a delightful guest lad. We'll make sure that Rapidash is well cared for during your absence. We can't let the beast go now that it's chosen a rider!" he laughed, giving Chris a thumbs up. Looking at the two, he gave them another hug before the group climbed into the limo, the chauffeur shutting the door and climbing into the drivers seat. "I wish we could have told Gerald bye at least..." he sighed, the chauffeur rolling down all the windows as everyone bid them farewell. Slowly driving off, the crowd shout their goodbye's as Arthur, Angela and Atticus waved, each showing a smile as Chris and the girls poked their heads out and waved back, Angela tearing up as they disappeared out of site while holding onto Arthur. "There there Geegee... They'll return someday." Atticus assured, rubbing her on the back before everyone began slowly returning to the manor.

"This is it... Our final ride through the city..." Chris sighed as they went past the gated entrance to the property, making their way along the bustling streets and past countless buildings. "It's been an extraordinary stay I'll admit. It'll be a tad hard to adjust to a traveling lifestyle again." Alicia nodded. "Glad to be leaving though. Want to see lots of new things now that can see!!" Serenity grinned excitedly. "I'm ready to leave too... I wanna learn what it's like to travel with somebody who really loves me." Rose giggled, snuggling up next to Chris causing him to jolt and blush shyly. Eventually, they reached the ocean border of the city, passing by countless piers with countless ships docked and ready for boarding. "Woooaaaaah... Look at all of em'..." Chris muttered, the girls looking over the area just as impressed. "Ocean... So pretty." Serenity muttered, her eyes widening. "Alright then, if you'll kindly look just ahead, you'll see the Guardian in all her glory awaiting your arrival sir!" the chauffeur pointed out, the group noticing the massive liner with its solar panels towering high into the air above it. "There it is girls... Our new home for the next seven days." Chris grinned while they looked up in awe as they parked nearby the boarding pier. "You'll find all of your belongings arranged neatly in the trunk." the chauffeur explained, helping them out as the smell of the ocean waft around them. "Ahhh, that's nice." Chris chuckled, putting on his rucksack with the scroll the girls made tucked safely in a tube in one of the side pockets, taking out his staff as well while Serenity took out her guitar and flute cases. "Will that be all sir?" the chauffeur asked with a bow. "Yeah... We're good from here on. Thanks for everything." he smiled in response, waving as the man climbed back in the limo with a nod before driving off, leaving the group as they looked at the colossal liner before them. "So... Where go? Just walk to ship?" Serenity asked. "No... It's like a plane in a way. You gotta go through the steps before they'll let you get on." he explained, the girls looking at one another and saying "plane?" simultaneously confused. Heading towards the nearby terminal area, the group went through various security checks, with Chris obtaining their boarding passes for first class along the way through the process, his Pokedex coming in handy already as the guards checked his identification. After countless papers were filled out and everything was approved, the security team welcomed them to the boarding area of the Guardian, the group pausing for a moment as they admired her massive size once more. "It's amazing... Up close it looks like it goes on for miles..." Chris muttered, watching countless people and Pokemon alike board the ship. As they prepared to climb the boarding platforms, he noticed a young woman in a wheelchair struggling to make her way up, an elderly woman trying to push her along. Seeing this, he walked up to the two and smiled. "If you don't mind, can I lend a hand?" he asked, the two blinking at him in surprise. "We're heading on board ourselves. I'm Chris, and this is Serenity, Alicia and Rose!" he nodded, the girls bowing as the two nodded in response. "Sally... And this is my grandmother, Victoria." the woman in the chair replied, shaking his hand as he got behind the chair and pushed it along. "Nice to meet you two! This is our first time on a ship so we're pretty pumped." he grinned, Victoria looking at the girls in surprise as Serenity and Rose each held one of her hands and helped her walk up the platforms. "My, aren't you a polite lot?" she smiled. "I appreciate the help. Some of the staff were supposed to show up and lend a hand but with so many boarding for the maiden voyage they're really swamped, so I'm not upset with them." Sally smiled nervously as they entered the ship via one of the lower level entrances. "And there you go! Nice meeting you two!" Chris smiled, waving as Serenity and Rose helped Victoria in, the elderly woman taking a deep and relieved breath of air. "Heavens to betsy, thank you dearies!" she told the girls, the two bowing slightly in response before returning to Chris's side and walking off with him.

"We're supposed to meet with the captain on deck towards the bow. It's a treat for all the first class passengers." Chris said as they walked along, looking at the tickets. "Meeting a captain? Oh my, delightful!" Alicia grinned, looking herself over and putting her chin up. "Captain...?" Serenity asked, tilting her head. "A captain is the one in charge of the ship, controlling it, the crew. It takes a LOT for someone to handle a job like that." Chris explained, Serenity looking around in surprise. "One human in charge of all this? Guess not surprise, Arthur and Angela in charge of much more." she shrugged. "True, true... Anyways, let's see where we..." he muttered, finding a map of the ship on the wall, remembering where to go with a nod. Eventually, they reached the top deck and looked around in awe, walking up to the railing of the ship and taking in the view of the ocean and city, looking down at the people the size of ants below. "Maaaaan... This is incredible. We were JUST down there." he pointed out, showing the girls where they went in just a moment ago. "Hold on a moment... Isn't that...?" Alicia pointed out, revealing a limo nearby with a man standing in front of it in a blue coat. Squinting his eyes, Chris suddenly jumped excitedly. "Yo its Gerald!! Hey!! Up here!!!" he shout, waving as the small figure reached into the limo for something, taking out what looked like binoculars, eventually spotting the group as they saw the small figure wave back. After a moment, they saw the figure rummaging in his clothes for something, taking out what looked like a Pokeball and giving it a toss towards the ship. In a bright flash, it released a Mismagius high in the air between the two, with a sudden ring coming from Chris's coat pocket. "Is that the thing Arthur gave you?" Rose asked, pointing at his pocket as they looked at it with curious expressions. Taking it out, Chris pressed a button causing it to flip open, a hologram of Gerald appearing above. "Hello there Master Chris... I came to bid you farewell." he told the group with a bow. "We looked all over for you! Cutting it close don't you think?" Chris smiled nervously, he and the girls giving him a wave from where they stood, getting a wave in return. "Do forgive me sir, but there was something I wanted to get as a parting gift. Please accept it." he said, the group tilting their heads confused before looking up and seeing Mismagius floating right in front of them, causing the group to jump back and shout in surprise making the Pokemon laugh. With a bow, it revealed a new Mega stone it had behind its back, floating it towards Chris and placing it in his hands before bowing once again and soaring back towards Gerald. "ANOTHER one of these?" he asked, looking it over as Gerald smiled. "Master Chris, the ladies by your side care for you deeply, as do I, therefore I'd like to present this to you, more-so to Madam Serenity from one servant to another." he explained, Chris scowling at the statement as Serenity looked at the stone, clutching her chest wide eyed as Gerald turned to her. "I know all of you will do whatever it takes to ensure he lives a happy and safe life. Which is why I want you to take this, because there may come a day when the strength on hand isn't enough. The master does get in his fair share of trouble, and with this you might have just the advantage you're looking for when the greatest of challenges arrive. Please accept this as my thanks for the privilege of getting to know you and become as close as we have." he bowed, Chris continuing to look over the stone before letting out a sigh and smiling with a nod. "Alright, alright. We're gonna miss you Gerald." he replied, the old butler raising with a hand on his chest. "As will I sir. You've no idea how much I look forward to the day we meet again. I'm very proud of you, and it's my pleasure to see such a fine man off on his voyage to new adventures." he chuckled as Chris nodded in response. Suddenly, they heard the horns erupt from the ship, signaling it was ready to depart causing everyone to jolt and cover their ears in surprise. "Looks like this is it..." Gerald said, giving the group a final wave as they saw the ship start moving. "Thanks for everything..." Chris replied, suddenly sniffling causing the girls to rub his back, Alicia giving him a rub against the cheek with hers while they waved. "And thank YOU... Sonny..." Gerald smiled, waving in response before the hologram flashed away, Chris going wide eyed from the last second nickname and looking at Gerald in the distance near the limo, continuing to wave at the group as the ship began turning and heading for the sea.

Shouting as loudly as they could, the group bid Gerald a final farewell, the old butler letting out a chuckle and adjusting his glasses as the ship made its way towards the horizon. "Yes indeed... I'll never forget him..." Gerald muttered as Mismagius hovered by his side, rubbing its cheek against his as he stood proudly. "Goodbye my friend, and good luck out there..."