Once Is Enough

Part 7

The child stayed silent for a moment, but nodded his head knowingly and set down the rock he was holding.

"Okay," he said.

"Good, now why don't you get some rest? We have to travel some more tomorrow." Zoar instructed. "Also, there's a place I want to visit with you before we set out." Confirmation shone in the boy's eyes.

"Yeah, alright," he agreed. He gathered up some of the leaves that had fallen from the tree he hit and piled them up near where Zoar was laying down. After he was comfortable, he sat himself down and rested his head onto his arms.

"'Night, kit," Zoar mumbled gently.

"Goodnight."

Avian shut his eyes, soon falling into the arms of sleep.

~

"Hey, puppy. It's okay, dropping it is how you learn."

"...I... I can't do this... You always beat me! And I always let the ball fall before I can do anything...! J-just... Let's go home now..."

"Avian... Just because you drop the ball a few times doesn't mean you have to give up. It's all a part of the process of becoming better at what you're doing. That goes for anything."

...Why...? Why couldn't I have just had the courage to fight back?!

"Don't give up! Keep trying, and eventually, one day, you will accomplish your goals. I know you're the type of Pokemon that can do anything they put their mind into. If anyone can do it, it's you!"

I could of... They could of...! I...!

"...You just need to be--"

~

"No...!" Avian shot up from where he lie. Placing a paw on his tired eyes, he found some fresh tears dappling his face. Silently, the child wiped them off and got up, looking around him frantically. He soon spotted Zoar, who was sleeping away under the midnight sky.

He fearfully glanced around before making his way over to the sleeping figure, tapping him lightly. He watched Zoar's eyes flicker open and his head turn to him.

"Everything alright, Ave...?" he asked groggily. Avian shifted hesitantly, still shocked from his... 'nightmare'. He rubbed his arm skittishly.

"Zoar...?" he murmured. "C-can I sleep with you...?" Zoar blinked his eyes.

"Why...? Whats wrong?" Avian bit his lip nervously.

"I... I thought I saw a monster..." he said quietly. After a moment of silence, the Luxray let out a playful laugh. He looked at Avian benevolently, scooting to make room for him.

"Of course, Ave. Come here." Avian quickly curled up next to Zoar, his insides still shuddering from his troubled thoughts.

But he was soon caressed by his larger body, wrapping around like a warm blanket. The pup was almost surprised at all the heat he generated, being an electric Pokemon. Zoar set his head next to Avian's.

"Don't worry, I'll protect you," he promised. And with that, he fell fast asleep.

Avian couldn't help but feel safe in Zoar's grasp. It was almost like the wings of an angel carrying him away to paradise, wherever it was. He knew it was out there, but Zoar would have to settle for now. He curled up into his flank and sighed deeply, succumbing to the tenderness of his embrace.
____________________________
The next morning, Avian woke to the constant and rhythmic movements against his body. He slowly rose to see his companion grooming himself happily, licking his paw to brush his ears. The child watched him for a moment until Zoar turned his head to look at him, smiling.