...huh.

On the day he didn't bring Rou, a Vulpix crossed their path. Immediately, Gou's fur stood up on end, kind of like a cat, and he entered a fighting/protective stance. He was much more prepared now compared to before, and he was not going to get knocked out so easily.

But this Vulpix was definitely different compared to the one that aggressively jumped on Arthur that long while ago (how long ago was that? A few weeks? A month?). It looked at them with a curious eye and didn't look hostile. In fact, it just sat there and licked its paw, much like a cat. The Monferno was not sure if he should drop his guard or not.

And then just as suddenly, it ran off further into the thicket.

❝Wait!❞ Arthur already had a Vulpix, but he learned not long after that it was a rare spawn, so surely someone else would want one for something good. He also broke into a light sprint, not wanting to get too close, but not wanting to lose sight of the Pokemon. Leaves crunched under his shoes and added to the ambiance. His Monferno was surprised by the sudden take off and at first followed right behind him before quickening his speed so that he was in front. He didn't want to expose his trainer to unnecessary danger if he could, but he was also interested in a rematch, even if it was not exactly the same as what he fought before.

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Eventually, they reached a clearing, which looked suspiciously manmade. The reason for that was because the path's end led to a sudden drop - a huge square-shaped hole that when Arthur dared to peer over the cliff, led to another blanket of leaves and branches. None of the trees grew tall enough to surpass the hole's height, but whatever spots he could see between the leaves was just plain dark. Who knew how deep this hole went, and the corners of the square were too clean to be fractured by the earth.

"I was told that the ancient Venusaur lives somewhere there." the lady said, one step away from falling into the hole. She was looking down, searching for something. "I cannot go there alone, so I appreciate that you asked me first."

Well, it looked like no one was recommended to go alone, Arthur thought, judging from the UI pop up that kept telling him that he should really bring a small party with him. Not just Pokemon, but other players. There was also something that felt like it was repelling him - nothing physical, but an invisible push. He supposed it would remain until he accepted the quest.

❝Right, it looks dangerous. I will need to prepare before I can head down there, if that's alright.❞

"It is understandable. I will lend you my aid."

He raised a brow, wondering if it was alright for an NPC to come with him, but that was until the lady suddenly disappeared from his sight, startling him. An illusion? Out from the bushes nearby them appeared the Vulpix they saw earlier, eyes wide and alert, knowing and wise.

<Truth be told, trainer, I cannot enter as I am. I will subject myself to you, so long as you promise me we find the leaf.>

There was an unspoken "but". Arthur had heard of Vulpix being able to cast curses. He wondered if the NPC had the ability or authority to do such a thing. He had wanted to trade this Vulpix, but it looked like she was going to lead them to treasure instead. This seemed like a lot of work, but he did accept the quest...

❝Fine, I will prepare a group and find the leaf. What comes after, we will discuss when we get there, yes?❞

The Vulpix smiled. <You are wise to think of this as a temporary truce. I accept.>

Arthur pulled out the Poke Ball and let her press her paw on the button, drawing her in, but not without a contract signed.

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