The night sky shimmered with countless stars, but one burned brighter than the rest—a celestial beacon known as the Wishing Star. High above a jagged cliff, Lance the Riolu stood, his blue fur illuminated by its glow. His emerald eyes, once filled with hope, now burned with a fiery resolve.

“This world doesn’t deserve peace,” Lance muttered to himself, his voice sharp and filled with anger. “I’ll end it all. With this wish, everything will crumble into eternal destruction!”

Lance raised his paw toward the star, its radiance intensifying in response to his malicious intent. The earth trembled beneath him as the air grew heavy with an ominous energy. But before Lance could complete his wish, a figure emerged from the shadows—a human boy, his clothes tattered and his eyes determined.

“Stop!” the boy shouted, dashing forward with everything he had. “You can’t do this!”

Lance snarled, his body bracing for confrontation. “Stay out of my way, human! This world doesn’t need saving—it needs to end!”

Ignoring the threat, the boy lunged toward Lance, his outstretched arms knocking the Riolu away from the star's direct path. The force of the collision sent both of them sprawling. The boy scrambled to his feet, positioning himself between Lance and the star.

“I won’t let you destroy everything,” he said, his voice steady despite the fear coursing through him. The boy clenched his fists and gazed up at the pulsating star. “If anyone’s making a wish, it’s going to be me.”

Lance’s eyes widened. “What are you—?!”

Before Lance could stop him, the boy raised his voice to the heavens.

“I wish for all the Pokémon Mystery Dungeons to unite into one!”

The Wishing Star erupted into a brilliant explosion of light, flooding the sky with blinding luminescence. Lance shielded his eyes, but the boy remained still, staring into the light as it enveloped him. His body began to glow, his form dissolving into fragments of shimmering stardust.

“No!” Lance shouted, reaching out as the boy vanished into the radiant void.

---

In the Pokémon World...

High above a vast ocean, the boy reappeared, now plummeting from the heavens. The star’s remnants clung to him, reshaping his body mid-fall. His arms shortened, his legs became nimble, and his human features transformed into the frame of a Riolu. A sparkling star emblem etched itself beneath his right eye, radiating faintly as his transformation completed.

The newly formed Riolu, Lester, fell unconscious, his body limp as he crashed into the sea. The waves embraced him, carrying him across the shimmering waters. The star emblem on his face pulsed softly, protecting him as he floated aimlessly.

The ocean remained calm for now, but an unshakable energy rippled through the Pokémon World. The boy who became a Riolu had unknowingly set a new destiny in motion—one that would unite, challenge, and change the very fabric of the world.

And somewhere, deep within the shadows, Lance clenched his fists, his heart filled with anger and confusion.

“This isn’t over,” Lance growled. “Not by a long shot.”

As the tides shifted, so did the fate of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon.

Epilogue: The Silent Vow

The sun dipped low on the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple. Waves gently lapped at the shore, their rhythmic sound filling the quiet beach. Nearby, hidden among the rocks, a dark cave stood, its entrance partially concealed by cascading vines.

Lester, the Riolu with a star-shaped mark under his right eye, emerged from the water, his cyan scarf damp and clinging to his fur. He stumbled onto the sand, his legs weak and his mind clouded.

“Where… am I?” he muttered, his voice trembling.

Memories swirled in his head like fragments of a shattered mirror. He remembered the star, the blinding light, and the overwhelming sense of purpose. But everything else was a blur. Except for one thing—his name.

“Lester,” he whispered to himself, clutching his scarf. “That’s… that’s who I am.”

Drawn to the cave, Lester stepped inside, the cool air sending a shiver down his spine. Faintly glowing glyphs adorned the walls, their intricate patterns ancient and mysterious. As he ran his paw along the carvings, a faint warmth spread through him. The glyphs began to shimmer, their light growing stronger as words formed in his mind.

“Protector of this world… Guardian of peace…” Lester read aloud, his voice echoing softly in the cave. “A hero born from the stars…”

Before he could process the meaning, a surge of energy coursed through his body. His paws glowed with a vibrant light as power awakened within him. The cave trembled slightly, responding to the release of his aura.

“What… is this?” Lester gasped, clenching his fists as the energy settled. He felt stronger, more aware, and yet burdened by the weight of an unseen responsibility.

Looking back at the glyphs, he continued to read, piecing together the message.

“You must protect this world,” the words instructed. “A guardian’s path is never easy, but your light will guide those in darkness. Stand strong, for you are the hope of all Pokémon.”

Realization dawned on Lester. This was no ordinary place—he was in the Pokémon world. And he wasn’t just any Pokémon; he had a role to play, a purpose to fulfill.

“I’ll protect them,” Lester vowed, his voice steady. “I don’t know how or why, but if this is my destiny, I’ll do whatever it takes.”

Unbeknownst to Lester, a shadow moved silently near the cave’s entrance. Hidden among the rocks, a Grovyle with a dark green bandana and a leaf-like eye patch watched him intently. Holten had been tracking Lester since his arrival, ensuring no harm came to the newly transformed Riolu.

Holten’s gaze softened as he watched Lester discover his purpose. His heart, usually guarded, stirred with an unfamiliar feeling—a quiet admiration, a longing he couldn’t name. But Holten knew better than to reveal himself. He would remain in the shadows, protecting Lester from afar.

Years passed, and Lester grew into his role as a guardian hero. His courage and kindness became legendary, as did his ability to unite and protect Pokémon across the world. Yet, he always felt a lingering presence, a comforting sense that someone was watching over him.

Meanwhile, Holten continued his silent vigil. He fought battles Lester never saw, eliminated threats before they could reach him, and ensured the hero’s path remained clear. Over time, his feelings for Lester deepened, but he kept them buried, knowing the Riolu’s destiny was greater than any personal desire.

Standing on the edge of a cliff one quiet evening, Holten looked out at the horizon, his heart full yet heavy.

“Lester…” he thought, his mute voice resonating within. “You’ll never know how much you mean to me. But I’ll always be here, in the shadows, protecting you… because I believe in you.”

And so, the guardian hero and his silent protector continued their intertwined journeys, bound by destiny, devotion, and an unspoken bond that would endure through the ages.

Character Bio: Lester

Name: Lester

Species: Riolu

Age: 18

Pronouns: He/Him

Appearance: Lester is a unique Riolu with blue emerald eyes and a distinctive sparkling star mark in his right eye. He wears a cyan scarf that represents his resolve and identity.

Level: Unknown (???), but he is acknowledged as extremely strong.

---

Background

Lester wasn't always a Pokémon—he was once human. His transformation into a Riolu came with the loss of his memories, leaving him to navigate an unfamiliar world while piecing together his forgotten past. Despite the mystery surrounding his origins, he has embraced his role as the protector of the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon universe.

As the main protagonist of Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of the Cosmic Realm, Lester embarks on a quest to safeguard his world from impending threats, often working alone due to his independent and self-reliant nature.

---

Abilities

Master of All Pokémon Power Types: Unlike other Riolu, Lester can control every Pokémon power type, making him exceptionally versatile and formidable in battle.

Expertise in Tactics and Mobility: Lester excels in creating traps, performing parkour, and running. These skills allow him to traverse challenging environments and outmaneuver opponents.

Stealth and Strategy: His stealthy and calculated approach ensures he remains a step ahead of adversaries.

---

Personality

Brave: Unshaken by danger, Lester faces challenges head-on.

Understanding and Kindhearted: Despite his quiet nature, he empathizes deeply with others and strives to help those in need.

Quiet and Observant: While not overly talkative, he is perceptive, often noticing details others overlook.

Intelligent and Skillful: Lester's sharp mind and honed skills make him a strategic thinker and effective problem solver.

Social When Necessary: Though he prefers solitude, he can engage with others when required, forging alliances and earning respect.

Calm and Composed: Even in the direst situations, Lester maintains his cool demeanor.

---

Role

Lester’s mission is clear: to protect the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon universe from threats that could disrupt its balance. His journey is not only one of heroism but also of self-discovery, as he seeks to uncover the truth about his past life and the reason behind his transformation.

Lester is a symbol of resilience and determination, embodying the spirit of a true hero while carrying the weight of his mysterious origins.

Character Bio: Holten

Name: Holten

Species: Grovyle

Age: 22

Pronouns: He/Him

Appearance: Holten is a striking Grovyle with a dark green bandana around his neck. He has a scarred, blind left eye, which is covered by an eye patch resembling leaves. He carries a bag of supplies and tools, making him always prepared for any situation.

Level: 9999, marking him as one of the strongest Pokémon, rivaling Lester's strength.

---

Background

Holten is not an ordinary Grovyle; he possesses a unique mix of dark-type and grass-type powers, enhancing his abilities beyond the limits of a typical Grovyle.

His journey began when he first saw Lester, the enigmatic Riolu, and felt an inexplicable connection. Despite not revealing himself, Holten decided to dedicate his life to tracking and protecting Lester from the shadows, ensuring his safety without being seen.

Holten’s role as a lone guardian stems from his selfless determination to keep Lester safe, even at the cost of his own comfort and well-being. Over time, this devotion grew into a deep admiration and love for the Riolu he protects.

---

Abilities

Dark/Grass-Type Fusion: His blend of dark and grass powers gives him an edge in combat, combining stealth, power, and versatility.

Master Tracker: Holten is unmatched in tracking others, using his sharp senses and keen instincts to stay hidden while keeping close to Lester.

Strategic Genius: His intelligence and resourcefulness make him a master tactician, capable of devising plans to counter any threat.

Silent Combatant: Holten’s skills in stealth and his quiet nature allow him to neutralize enemies without being detected.

---

Personality

Determined: Holten’s resolve to protect Lester is unwavering, and he will stop at nothing to fulfill his duty.

Quiet and Mute: While Holten does not speak, his actions communicate his loyalty and dedication.

Cold-Hearted but Kind: He appears aloof and unapproachable, but beneath his stoic exterior lies a noble heart, especially when it comes to Lester.

Intelligent and Observant: Holten’s sharp mind and keen observational skills make him a formidable ally and opponent.

Secret Admirer: Holten has developed feelings for Lester, admiring him from afar while silently supporting him.

---

Role

Holten’s primary mission is to protect Lester at all costs, acting as his unseen guardian. Despite his solitary nature, Holten’s love and loyalty drive him to endure hardships for Lester’s sake. His journey is one of silent devotion, balancing his role as a protector with his growing feelings for the Riolu he has come to admire.

Holten represents unwavering loyalty and the quiet strength of a guardian who fights not for recognition but out of genuine care and love.

Lester’s pawprints were left in the sand as he wandered aimlessly, his gaze drawn to a small, yet lively town up ahead. His heart raced, filled with an unfamiliar longing to find answers. It had been days since he’d washed ashore, and the strange sense of urgency within him had only grown. He squinted at a sign that read Treasure Town, its cheerful letters at odds with the haunting silence that surrounded it.

“This… is Treasure Town?” Lester muttered, approaching cautiously. “It looks… deserted.”

As he walked deeper into the town, his eyes caught sight of empty streets, buildings eerily still, with no signs of life. The ground was littered with abandoned possessions and broken items. A chill ran down Lester’s spine. He had seen many things in his visions, but this… this was different. Something was terribly wrong.

He moved to the edge of the town, hearing faint whispers on the wind, and soon found himself near Sharkpedo Bay. The area was shrouded in a dark mist. Curiously, Lester approached the water’s edge, his eyes catching a strange, glowing object. It was a Mega Stone, pulsing with a mysterious energy. He reached out to touch it, and the moment his paw brushed against the stone, an overwhelming vision hit him.

The world around him blurred, and he found himself standing in the middle of the very same town, only this time, it was bustling with Pokémon. He saw the streets filled with life, laughter, and excitement. It was as though nothing had ever gone wrong.

“Mina!” shouted a voice Lester barely recognized.

He turned to see a Manaphy named Mina, her tiny body carrying a large bag of candy and a letter tucked carefully within it. She was smiling, walking alongside a Chatot who greeted her warmly.

“Heading back home, Mina?” Chatot, named Carlson, asked. “I’ve got something special for you in the guild. You’ll love it!”

Lester’s heart skipped a beat. He wasn’t just seeing the past, he was inside it—this was a vision, one of many to come. He followed Mina as she made her way to a small, hidden passage beneath Sharkpedo Bay. She paused, nudging the entrance open, revealing a secret tunnel.

Inside, two Pokémon, a Luxio named Ohnmis and a Lucario named Ecla, slept peacefully in their nest. Mina gently nudged Ohnmis awake, and the moment his eyes opened, he blinked in surprise, a soft smile forming on his face.

“Mina!” Ohnmis greeted, his voice thick with sleep. “Where’ve you been?”

“I was getting candy and a letter from Carlson,” she replied cheerfully.

Ecla stirred beside them, his eyes glowing with a gentle aura. “Are we going trick-or-treating tonight?” he asked, his smile wide and genuine.

“Yeah! Carlson says there’s a haunted house at the guild,” Mina replied, her tail flicking with excitement. “Though, he mentioned the guild master’s not feeling too well...”

Lester stood still in the shadows, watching them as his mind raced. Something felt wrong, but he couldn’t place it. He followed them silently, unseen, as they made their way toward the guild. As they arrived, the eerie, spooky atmosphere of the guild greeted them. It was all decked out in cobwebs, haunted decorations, and ghostly sounds.

Suddenly, a jarring BOO! echoed through the air. The guild’s Wigglytuff, named Wilton, leaped out, startling the group. They all jumped back, startled, but laughed nervously.

Wilton grinned mischievously. “Gotcha! But seriously, welcome to the haunted guild!”

Lester narrowed his eyes, instinctively sensing that something was off about the Wigglytuff. His wide grin revealed sharp, unsettling teeth that seemed too jagged to be natural.

“Wilton…?” Mina asked, her voice uncertain.

Before anyone could react, Wilton lunged at Mina, sending her crashing to the floor. Her breath hitched in pain as she struggled to stand. The others immediately jumped into action, taking defensive stances.

“We need to stop him!” Ecla shouted, rushing to Mina’s side.

The guild members quickly joined in, trying to restrain Wilton, who seemed completely erratic. But as they fought, Lester realized something horrifying—the Wigglytuff’s behavior wasn’t natural. The once-cheerful guild master had been overtaken by something far more sinister.

Wilton’s eyes flickered momentarily, as if a switch had been flipped. He pulled back, breathing heavily. “I—I didn’t mean to do that,” he muttered, his expression shifting into regret. “I… I’m so sorry.”

Carlson quickly approached, offering a gentle paw to Wilton. “It’s okay,” he said, helping the Wigglytuff back on his feet. “We need to get to the guild master’s office. He’s in danger.”

As the group made their way toward the guild master’s office, Lester’s mind was filled with questions. What was going on? What had happened to Treasure Town? His thoughts were interrupted when Carlson suddenly revealed the truth—there was a virus, a parasite called the Husk, spreading through the town, turning everyone into monsters.

Lester’s stomach churned with the gravity of the revelation.

The group reached the guild master’s office, where Carlson handed the guild master a perfect apple, one that could cure the effects of the virus. But as they tried to tend to the guild master, disaster struck.

Wilton, in an uncontrollable state, suddenly collapsed, and Bidoof rushed to his side. Lester’s eyes widened as he watched the Wigglytuff undergo a terrifying transformation, his body contorting into a monstrous form.

“It’s happening to him too…” Ecla whispered, horror etched in his voice.

Suddenly, Wilton, now a terrifying creature, attacked, causing chaos. The group fought valiantly, but it was clear that they were no match for the powerful Husk virus.

“Everyone… is gone,” Carlson cried out, collapsing in despair. “Everyone in Treasure Town…”

The weight of the truth hit Lester like a boulder. The town, the Pokémon he had seen alive just moments ago, were all dead. And now, there was no escape from the Husk.

As the group hurried to escape, Skull the Stunky, the last of his team, appeared, warning them of the coming danger. He led them to a hidden cave where they could hide temporarily.

But the calm wouldn’t last. Ecla, his mind clouded with grief, had a vision—the Husk was coming.

“What’s that sound?” Mina asked, her voice trembling.

Before they could react, the Husk appeared, its shadow looming over the cave. A fierce battle ensued, and despite their efforts, the Husk overpowered them.

Ohnmis, however, stood firm, determined to protect his friends. He stayed behind, facing the Husk, while Ecla and Mina rushed forward.

“Ohnmis…!” Ecla cried out, his voice breaking as he turned back to see his friend standing alone, fighting for their survival.

With one final shout, Ohnmis held out his paw, hoping to hold on a little longer, to protect his friends—his very first friends.

The Husk, weakened by their efforts, faltered for a moment, giving Ecla the opportunity to strike. With a flash of light, he unleashed the full power of his Mega Evolution, his body glowing with immense energy as he faced the monster head-on.

“I won’t let you destroy my friends!” Ecla shouted, his voice a roar of fury.

The final battle was intense. Ecla, with the help of Mina and Carlson, pushed the Husk off the edge, sending it crashing into a pile of rocks below.

As the dust settled, the three of them stood still, their bodies aching, their hearts heavy with the losses they had endured. The town, now empty and silent, would never be the same again.

Mina spoke softly, her voice filled with sorrow. “We’ll never forget them.”

Ecla nodded, his eyes filled with tears. “I’ll never forget Ohnmis… my partner.”

Lester, still lingering in the vision, watched as the memories unfolded. He now knew the truth. He knew what had happened to Treasure Town and to its inhabitants. And he knew where he needed to go next.

As the vision faded, Lester stood at the edge of the town, his mind focused on the future. His journey was far from over.

“Lively Town…” Lester whispered to himself. “That’s where I’m headed next.”

Meanwhile, hidden in the trees, Holten observed the vision unfold. His eyes narrowed with determination. The truth had been revealed to him, and he knew where Lester was going. But there were others—three figures emerged from the shadows: Holt the Grovyle, Trista the Celebi, and Moreno the Dusknoir.

“They think he’s the key…” Holt murmured. “We need to stop him before it’s too late.”

Holten’s heart raced as he sprinted toward Lively Town. He had to reach Lester before they did.

Epilogue of Chapter 1: A Silent Guardian in the Shadows

The moonlight filtered through the dense trees as Lester navigated the forest, his heart pounding in his chest. His mission was clear—he had to reach Lively Town. The visions had led him this far, but every step he took only deepened the mystery. As he ventured forward, a rustle in the bushes caught his attention. He paused, ears twitching, and turned to see three figures emerging from the shadows, their eyes focused on him.

Lester’s fur bristled, his instincts screaming at him to be cautious. These three weren’t ordinary Pokémon. They looked as though they were on a mission—and that mission involved him.

“What do you want?” Lester asked quietly, his eyes narrowing.

“We’re here to bring you in,” one of them said, a Grovyle with dark green markings and a mischievous gleam in his eyes.

Lester took a step back, his body tense. He didn’t trust them—not one bit.

Without a word, he turned and bolted into the trees, his legs carrying him swiftly through the underbrush. He could hear the sound of their footsteps behind him, growing louder with every passing moment.

The Grovyle, along with a Celebi and a Dusknoir, pursued him relentlessly, but Lester was faster. He leaped over fallen branches, ducked under low-hanging vines, and zigzagged through the trees. His agility was unmatched.

“I can’t let them catch me,” Lester thought, his mind working in overdrive.

As the three Pokémon closed in, Lester spun around, his paw glowing with power. He unleashed a flurry of attacks—Dark Pulse, Thunderbolt, Flamethrower, and Psychic—all in quick succession. The attacks hit their marks, sending shockwaves through the air.

“Urgh!” The Celebi staggered back, narrowly avoiding a Thunderbolt, while Dusknoir’s body trembled from the Psychic attack.

“We’ll never catch him if we just keep rushing in like this!” Trista, the Celebi, exclaimed.

Moreno, the Dusknoir, grimaced as he readied his own moves. “We need to trap him. He’s too fast for us.”

Lester, however, wasn’t stopping. He used every ounce of his skill to evade them, expertly controlling all types of Pokémon power as he moved with precision. He could feel the burn of exertion in his muscles, but he refused to slow down.

Suddenly, as he rounded a corner, he realized he was no longer being pursued. He stopped dead in his tracks, his heart thudding in his chest.

A loud crash echoed from behind, followed by the sound of grumbling. He turned to see the three Pokémon had collided with a pile of rocks and fallen trees. The Grovyle, Holt, was the only one still standing, his eyes locked onto Lester with a determined gaze.

Before Lester could make his next move, he heard a sharp rustling from the trees above. The forest seemed to shift in the darkness, and suddenly, the trees around them creaked and swayed.

The Grovyle’s expression flickered with confusion. “What—?”

But before they could react, a series of loud distractions echoed from the forest: snapping branches, shifting boulders, and a deep rumbling sound. The Grovyle, Trista, and Moreno froze, their attention shifting.

“Go!” Lester thought, his heart pounding. He quickly seized the opportunity to escape, sprinting through the forest. His senses told him someone—or something—was helping him, but he didn’t have time to figure it out.

The pursuit resumed, but this time, Lester had a brief head start. He dashed through the trees, his agility a blur. But then, as if the forest had conspired against him, he stumbled into something—or rather, someone.

With a sudden jolt, Lester collided with a solid figure. His paws shot out to catch himself, but the moment he turned, he froze.

Standing before him was a Grovyle, but not the one from before. This one was different—his body was sleek, and his movements were fluid, like a shadow in the night. He wore a dark green scarf, and his presence was calm yet fierce. He looked at Lester, then quickly pointed ahead, as if urging him to follow.

Lester blinked, confused. “Who are you?”

The Grovyle, silent as ever, pointed again, his gaze unyielding. Lester understood—this Pokémon was trying to tell him something.

With no other choice, Lester nodded and took a step forward. “Alright, let’s go,” he muttered, unsure of who this Pokémon was but instinctively trusting him.

The Grovyle, still silent, led him through the forest with astonishing speed, his movements so swift and precise that Lester had to struggle to keep up. The air around them seemed to shift as the Grovyle’s dark and grass-type powers fused together, creating an energy that propelled them forward.

Lester felt a rush of wind in his fur as they raced through the trees, leaping over obstacles, dodging branches, and even climbing up the trunks of trees. It was like they were gliding over the terrain. Lester’s heart raced with adrenaline, the thrill of the chase mixing with the confusion of the situation.

“Who is this Pokémon?” Lester thought, his mind spinning.

Despite not saying a word, the Grovyle seemed to communicate with Lester through his actions—every move purposeful, every direction clear. They made it to a cliff’s edge where the forest opened up, revealing the distant lights of Lively Town below.

“This… is Lively Town,” Lester murmured, peering down at the bustling town. He could sense there were answers here—answers to the questions that had been haunting him since he arrived.

As they stood there, catching their breath, the Grovyle—Lester realized—wasn’t just guiding him. He was protecting him, keeping him safe from whatever force was chasing him. Lester didn’t know who he was or why he was being followed, but he now had a silent ally in this strange world.

The Grovyle stepped forward, motioning for Lester to follow. With a final glance back at the town, Lester nodded. “Alright… let’s go.”

Together, they descended toward the town, prepared to uncover the truth. But Lester had a feeling that the answers he sought were only the beginning of a much larger journey.

Meanwhile, hidden in the shadows of the trees, Holt, Trista, and Moreno regrouped, their eyes filled with determination. They weren’t going to give up so easily.

“He’s the key,” Holt muttered under his breath. “We’ll find him. No matter what.”

But they had no idea that Lester was already well ahead of them, guided by a silent guardian who would protect him through whatever trials lay ahead.

The end

Lester and Holten moved swiftly through the dense forest, the sound of their footsteps muffled by the thick undergrowth. Their destination: Lively Town. It was just ahead, but they needed to gather information about the disappearance of Ecla, Mina, and Carlson. Lester couldn’t shake the feeling that something bigger was unfolding, and with Holten by his side, his instincts told him that he was closer than ever to the truth.

As they stopped near a clearing, Holten suddenly crouched down and began to scratch something on the ground. His claws moved with purpose, drawing intricate symbols in the dirt.

“What are you doing?” Lester asked, peering over Holten’s shoulder.

Holten paused for a moment, then gestured toward the symbols. Lester leaned in closer, the shapes forming a clear pattern. The final result was a single name—Holten.

Lester’s eyes widened in understanding. “So… that’s your name?”

Holten gave him a small nod, his silent expression showing little emotion, but the fact that he had finally revealed something about himself felt significant. Lester smiled slightly, grateful for this small gesture.

They continued on, reaching the outskirts of Lively Town as the sun began to set. The town’s lively atmosphere contrasted sharply with the grim mysteries that lay beneath the surface. Lester and Holten decided to split up, questioning the Pokémon citizens around town, hoping to find any information about the whereabouts of Ecla, Mina, and Carlson.

After a few attempts, they came upon a young Pokémon—a Sandshrew—who seemed to know something.

“I heard talk of them not being seen for a while... but I know where they went,” the Sandshrew whispered nervously, glancing around. “They were last seen heading toward the old ruins near the western hills. But... be careful. There’s talk of strange Pokémon hanging around there.”

Lester nodded. “Thanks. We’ll check it out.”

But just as they were about to leave, a sudden rustle behind them froze them in their tracks. A trio of familiar figures appeared from the shadows: Holt, Trista, and Moreno—the very same Pokémon who had chased them through the forest.

Lester’s eyes narrowed. “You again.”

The three Pokémon didn’t waste time with greetings. Holt’s voice was cold and commanding. “Lester, come with us. We don’t want to fight.”

Lester shook his head. “Not happening.”

The tension in the air thickened. Before Holten could react, Lester darted forward, running with the agility of a trained fighter. Holt, Trista, and Moreno immediately gave chase, and the chase was on once again.

“Run, Holten!” Lester shouted, already using his power to blast away obstacles in his path. The chase was fast, a blur of motion through the streets and alleyways of Lively Town. Holten kept up, his movements swift and precise, his eyes focused on Lester.

But it wasn’t long before they found themselves at a dead end, the towering walls of the town blocking their escape. The trio of pursuers closed in, cutting off any chance of retreat.

“We’re not leaving without him,” Holt said firmly, his eyes locked on Holten, who stood in front of Lester protectively.

Holten didn’t respond. Instead, he positioned himself between Lester and the three Pokémon, his body tense, his eyes glowing with the power he was ready to unleash.

“I won’t let you take him,” Holten growled silently, and in that moment, the atmosphere around them shifted. Holten’s dark green aura flared as his power surged, mixing with the surrounding nature. The ground beneath his feet seemed to pulse with energy.

Lester watched in awe as Holten’s fusion power kicked into overdrive. The Grovyle’s dark-type and grass-type abilities fused into one explosive force. With a fierce roar, Holten charged at the trio, slashing through the air with tendrils of darkness and whips of razor-sharp grass.

The trio of pursuers took the full brunt of the attack, staggered back by the overwhelming strength of Holten’s onslaught. Trista and Moreno gritted their teeth, trying to regroup, but they were no match for Holten’s raw power. Even Holt struggled to keep up with the force of the attack.

Lester didn’t waste a second. “Let’s go!” he shouted, pulling Holten toward the nearest alleyway.

They ran, their footsteps echoing against the walls as they fled deeper into the town, their pursuers still in hot pursuit.

After a few more turns and swift moves through the back streets, the trio of Pokémon lost sight of them. They finally slowed down, panting heavily as they ducked into an abandoned building to catch their breath.

Lester looked up at Holten. “That was too close. Thank you… again.”

Holten gave him a silent nod, and Lester couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude toward him. They were a team now, whether either of them had wanted it or not.

Just as they prepared to leave the building and continue their search, a shadow loomed ahead of them. A figure stepped out from the darkness, tall and foreboding—Dustan, a Darkrai.

“You seem to be in quite the predicament,” Dustan’s voice was deep and calm, his eyes glimmering with knowledge. “But I’m here to help.”

Lester tensed, but Dustan raised a hand. “Don’t worry. I know why they’re after you. The three... they aren’t who you think they are.”

Lester, ever the skeptic, eyed Dustan carefully. “And what exactly do you know about them?”

Dustan stepped closer, his shadowy form flickering in the dim light. “They’re not the only ones with interests in you, Lester. There are others. But I can tell you how to stop them. How to keep moving forward.”

Lester didn’t trust him completely, but something about Dustan’s presence told him that he wasn’t here to cause harm. For now, he decided to listen.

“You’ll help us?” Holten asked, his voice silent but his body language conveying his readiness for whatever came next.

Dustan nodded. “I know the way. They’re heading toward the ruins. I’ll guide you there.”

Lester exchanged a glance with Holten. It was a risk, but they had little choice.

“Alright,” Lester said. “Lead the way.”

As Dustan turned to walk ahead, Holten and Lester followed closely behind, their minds already preparing for whatever dangers lay ahead. The answers they sought were waiting, but so were the shadows.

Epilogue of Chapter 2: The Fractured Past and the Pursuit Ahead

As Dustan, Lester, and Holten continued their trek toward the ruins, the silence between them was heavy. Dustan had remained strangely quiet until, finally, he spoke up, his voice calm but piercing in the otherwise still air.

“Lester,” Dustan began, his dark eyes fixed on the Riolu. “Do you remember anything about how you ended up here? Anything at all?”

Lester hesitated, the words seeming to strain against his mind as if they were trying to surface, but couldn’t. He shook his head slowly.

“No... I don’t,” he admitted, his voice laced with frustration. “I only remember my name, my mission... and something about a letter... a letter on a rock wall.”

Holten’s expression tightened, his silent gaze meeting Dustan’s. It was clear that neither of them had expected this. For a brief moment, Dustan’s eyes flickered with disbelief, while Holten’s face, though stoic, conveyed a deep concern. They knew this wasn’t good.

“What?” Dustan said, barely above a whisper, the gravity of Lester’s admission settling in. “You don’t... remember anything else?”

Lester’s ears drooped slightly, his body language apologetic. “I wish I did,” he muttered, though his voice was firm. “But I don’t. Not yet.”

Holten clenched his fists, frustration bubbling under his usually calm demeanor. He could feel the weight of the situation pressing in on them. Lester didn’t even remember who he truly was. It would be harder, much harder, to protect him—and find the truth—without the pieces of his past.

Dustan, clearly shaken, sighed. “We need to act fast. The answers you’re looking for, Lester... they may lie with Ecla, Mina, and Carlson. If we can find them, maybe you’ll start to remember.”

Lester nodded, but just as he was about to say something, a strange sensation washed over him—a prickle at the back of his neck, an unsettling presence approaching. His senses sharpened.

“Holt, Trista, and Moreno,” Lester murmured, his gaze darting over his shoulder. He could feel them drawing closer.

Dustan's eyes darkened, and he turned to Lester. “I’ll get us there before they catch up.”

Without another word, Dustan raised his hands, his Darkrai aura swirling around him. The shadows seemed to bend and twist in his control, and before anyone could react, a ripple of energy enveloped them. The world around them seemed to stretch and distort, and in an instant, they were gone—teleported without a trace.

When the world settled again, they found themselves at their destination.

The ruins stood before them—an ancient, crumbled structure that barely resembled anything more than a collection of rocks and overgrown vines. The air was thick with tension as Lester surveyed the area. This was it. This was where everything seemed to have led.

Lester and Holten wasted no time. They moved forward, the scent of damp earth and stone filling the air. But before they could take another step, the figures of Holt, Trista, and Moreno appeared in front of them, blocking their path.

“No more running, Lester,” Holt called out, his voice harsh. “You’re coming with us now.”

Lester’s fur bristled, and a spark of determination ignited in his chest. “I’m not going anywhere with you!”

The chase had led them here. The final confrontation would happen now. There was no turning back.

“You won’t stop me,” Lester growled, his eyes glowing with resolve. He could feel the power coursing through him, all types of energy at his disposal. He was ready.

Before anyone could react, Lester leaped forward, his speed incredible, moving faster than any of them anticipated. His abilities flared—electricity crackled around his body, his fists pulsing with fighting power, while shadows swirled at his feet.

“Lester, wait!” Dustan shouted, but Lester was already in motion.

“Too late!” he shouted back.

He charged at Holt, using a burst of fighting energy to collide with the Grovyle. Holt grunted as he was knocked back, but he quickly recovered, his own fusion powers flaring as he countered with a series of razor-sharp leaves and shadows.

“Damn it,” Holt muttered. “You’re stronger than I expected.”

The ground shook as their battle erupted, each blow ringing with force. Meanwhile, Trista and Moreno were moving to flank, but Holten, ever the silent protector, positioned himself next to Lester, ready to strike at a moment’s notice.

“You should’ve just come quietly,” Trista sneered, launching a barrage of psychic energy at Lester.

Lester reacted instantly, summoning the full might of his power. He dodged, using a burst of fire to create a diversion and sending Trista back with a powerful force. The three of them were relentless, but Lester and Holten fought with an unwavering resolve.

As they battled, Lester’s thoughts were scattered. He needed to find the answers to who he was. What had happened to him? Why didn’t he remember?

His fists collided with Moreno’s, knocking the Dusknoir back. “Tell me what you want from me!” Lester shouted, his voice strained with the effort.

“We just need you to come with us!” Holt barked, a crackle of dark energy charging around him. “It’s not safe for you to be on your own!”

Dustan finally intervened, his dark aura flooding the area as he used his powers to teleport Holt, Trista, and Moreno back a few paces, giving Lester and Holten some breathing room.

“Enough,” Dustan said, his tone stern. “They can’t be reasoned with, Lester. But we’re not done yet. We need to move quickly.”

Lester looked at him, eyes burning with fury and confusion. “Where are they? Where’s Ecla, Carlson, and Mina?”

Dustan’s face softened, a rare hint of compassion in his voice. “I’ll take you to them. But you need to trust me, and we need to move before they come back for you.”

Lester nodded sharply, his mind racing with the questions that still haunted him. With a final glance at Holten, who stood steadfast by his side, they prepared to move out once again.

The end