Chapter 0833: New Member! Dream Ball, Darkrai（Three-in-One）

The relationship between humans and Pokémon has always been a never-ending topic. Countless scholars and Trainers have devoted their lives to exploring it.

To Natsume, the most important thing is the “bond” between one another.

Just like Cynthia’s famous words: Every encounter between two lives can give birth to something truly precious.

Stepping out of the Ferris wheel car, Natsume’s wrist was wrapped in a pink ribbon as he looked up at clouds drifting across a clear blue sky.

“Beautiful weather today. C’mon, let’s go for a walk.”

“Sylveon~ o(′^｀)o” Sylveon, sporting a cute little bow, tugged on Natsume’s arm with her ribbons, pink ears standing proudly.

It’s ME taking YOU for a walk, obviously.

“Haha, works both ways.”

Leaving Nimbasa City’s Ferris wheel behind.

Even though he hadn’t seen N again, Natsume’s heart felt clear and light.

He figured N and Mewtwo would have plenty to talk about.

Over the next two days, Natsume took the little ones traveling all around Unova.

Since the last ranked match had just ended and the next one was only in the scheduling phase, it was the perfect chance to relax for a while.

On the first day, Natsume visited the “Sword of the Vale” Castle.

Known as “Eindoak Town,” this kingdom was also Victini’s home.

This time, he was searching for Reshiram—a visit to catch up with an old friend.

Victini flitted freely around the garden, plucking ripe, juicy pecha berries off low branches, munching away happily: “Victini!”

Towering behind it, the castle jutted skyward like a sword piercing the clouds.

Deep below the “Sword of the Vale” Castle, Natsume stood gazing up at the snow-white feathers of Reshiram.

The great dragon spread its white wings, feathers drifting, the turbine on its tail glowing orange as it rumbled,

『So, why’ve you come looking for me this time?』

“Nothing much, just wanted to see you.”

Natsume grinned. “If you don’t mind, though, I do have a little favor to ask.”

Reshiram was briefly taken aback.

Two hours later, Reshiram soared across the cloudless skies with an expression of pure defeat, carrying the Hero of Truth on its back, bound for Striaton City.

Natsume held onto Reshiram’s back, fingers buried in soft cloud-like feathers, his soul shaken.

This is the real deal!

Being able to pet a Reshiram is already worth becoming the Hero of Truth!

“Aah, think I’m getting dizzy.”

Natsume flopped stomach-down across Reshiram’s back, loudly inhaling the snowy fluff.

Reshiram glanced back, flapped its cloudlike wings, slowed down, and cast a blue aura shield for protection.

Arriving at Striaton City, Reshiram swept its snowy wings and looked down at Natsume with icy-blue eyes.

『I better be going now,』 it intoned.

Natsume nodded, taking the chance to channel a blast of Aura of Ripple through Reshiram. He said,

“Next time, let me treat you to tea at a Lumiose City café and a proper tea party!”

Reshiram felt the warm strength flowing through its body, eyes crystalline. It gave a soft nod.

『If you ever face danger, I’ll come running,』 Reshiram said sincerely. 『Because you are my chosen… hero of truth.』

Natsume: “…So why didn’t you show up during the City of Wastes incident?”

Reshiram shuffled uneasily, stretching snowy wings in a very human gesture and scratching its neck:

『At the time… I was hibernating as a Light Stone.』

Natsume: “Seriously? That’s your excuse?”

Reshiram’s bright eyes held Natsume’s gaze.

Truthfully, it had wanted to help, but dozed off just a bit too long; by the time it woke, the battle was already over.

Reshiram turned away, coughed dryly: 『It’s getting late, take care on your journey.』

Natsume: ?

As expected from the dragon of truth!

Honestly, Reshiram and Natsume-sensei were a remarkably compatible pair.

He waved goodbye, and Reshiram gave a final nod before its snowy figure vanished into the clouds.

“Latias…” Latias poked out of her Poké Ball, puffing up her cheeks.

With Reshiram here, you just forget about me…

“Alright, you can carry me home next, sound good?” said Natsume.

“ Lati---as!” (No way!) Latias drew out the last word in a pout.

Teasing over, Natsume headed to Striaton City’s “Dreamyard.”

He paid a visit to Professor Fennel, who was researching the science of dreams.

Dream Research Institute.

Sirfetch’d lay dozing on a set of precision instruments, eyes heavy: “Sirfetch’d…( -'`-)”

Might as well nap right now.

“How’s it looking, Professor Fennel?”

Professor Fennel—young, with long purple hair and a lab coat—explained,

“The ‘Imprison’ placed by Munna will gradually wear off over time. It won’t impact Sirfetch’d’s health, so you don’t need to worry.”

“That’s good to hear.” Natsume sighed in relief. “About how long will it take, then?”

“Well… could be a long while. Or, if something out of the ordinary happens, Sirfetch’d may wake up much sooner,” Fennel said.

Something out of the ordinary… A rare tightness welled in Natsume’s chest, and he coughed lightly, balling a fist:

“Thank you for your help, Professor Fennel.”

“No need for thanks.” Fennel smiled. “Natsume-sensei, we actually met at a research conference once, you know.”

“Huh?”

“You probably don’t remember, but I even asked you a question then… Your legendary Pokémon presentation caused a huge sensation in the academic world.”

“Is that so?” Natsume smiled… Honestly, that whole report was hand-typed by me!

“By the way, if you have a second—there’s a little gift I’d like to give you.” Fennel turned to rummage in a nearby cabinet.

“A gift? You’re the one who deserves thanks here.”

“It’s the latest prototype—a Poké Ball called the ‘Dream Ball.’ I wanted to entrust it to a reliable Trainer. You’re perfect. Please wait just a moment!”

Natsume watched as Fennel searched, eyebrows raised in surprise.

Dream Ball?

There’s a running joke in the competitive scene about the “Dream Ball Aegislash.”

Back then, a three-time world champion named Ray used an Aegislash caught in a Dream Ball at a tournament.

But the Dream Ball came out in Gen 5 and could only catch Pokémon from that era or earlier. Aegislash debuted in Gen 6. The combo was literally impossible, meaning his Aegislash wasn’t legit.

When asked by officials, Ray said, “My friend gave it to me.”

Thanks to Ray’s status, the tournament officials let it go—and later even released a legit Dream Ball Aegislash via special distribution.

The meme stuck: “Dream Ball Aegislash” became shorthand for illegal Pokémon, and “friend” a euphemism for anyone who edited Pokémon data.

Moral of the story: Even someone like Natsume, whose whole team’s technically illegal, can still become World Champion! (Just kidding.)

“Here it is.”

Fennel cupped a pink, glittering Dream Ball in her hand, smiling. “Isn’t it cute? The colors match Musharna.”

[Dream Ball: A special Poké Ball, makes it easier to catch Pokémon in Sleep Condition. (Given by a friend.)]

Natsume paused in thought.

He couldn’t deny it; rare balls had a special appeal.

But… what should he use the Dream Ball for?

If he handed it to Darkrai, would it just respond with a “Dark Void”?

“Please accept it, Natsume-sensei,” Fennel said. “Inside this Dream Ball, the habitat is a vast, peaceful forest. The Trainer and the Pokémon’s dreams are linked here—it’s not a simple ‘caught’ relationship.”

This had always been Natsume’s hangup.

Darkrai was his bodyguard, on equal footing. Once he invited Darkrai into a Poké Ball, their relationship might change in subtle ways.

His real intent was to offer Darkrai a home, like Alamos Town, tailored just for him.

With a comfy Poké Ball, Darkrai wouldn’t have to keep roaming—he’d have a place to settle down.

But not every Pokémon wants a Poké Ball. Some even hate them.

Natsume didn’t know how Darkrai felt.

But Darkrai had been traveling with him for nearly a year.

He recalled how Darkrai had raised the battleship in Opelucid City, fought Kyurem to the death in the City of Wastes, lounged with Pokéblocks, and listened to Meloetta sing “Oración” with a dignified air.

If possible—

Natsume wanted to ask if Darkrai—

Would truly stay here… really become part of the family.

A vast dream-forest and swirling dream energy inside the Dream Ball would suit Darkrai perfectly.

At this moment, Darkrai was in Lumiose City, but could come in an instant if needed.

Natsume, bracing himself for a “Dark Void,” suppressed his link with Darkrai and took a deep breath, fingers tightening around the Dream Ball.

“Name your price, Professor Fennel!” Natsume demanded with fire in his eyes.

“Huh? I—it’s a gift…”

“Business is business! Friendship discount is fine!”

Natsume decided—when he returned to the café, he’d work out exactly what to say.

Then, for the first time in ages, he’d finally ask Darkrai if he’d enter the ball.

“If he flips out, Gengar, cover for me!”

Natsume looked down at the Dream Ball in his palm.

“Gengar( ′ 3`)” Gengar slurped at Natsume’s arm.

“And Rotom, remember to use Ally Switch!”

“Beep…System Overload, Rotom!Σ(っ °Д °;)っ”

……

May 9th, Monday.

Kalos Region—Lumiose City was buzzing with energy as the week-long PTCG World Tournament got underway.

Contestants, armed with their holo casters and card decks acting as competition passes, duked it out in card battles to earn ranking points and fight for a spot in the final round!

Right now, atop the leaderboard, contestant Tobias and his “Darkrai Deck” were dominating, drawing gasps and admiration from onlookers.

“This Tobias guy… does he really have two Legendary Pokémon?!”

“He made it all the way to Ultra Ball tier at Worlds, too. I mean, with Darkrai and Latios on his side, who can touch him?”

“Man, forget ‘Divine Beast Man’—he’s a real Duel King!”

Lumiose City was absolutely alive with TCG hype. Everywhere you looked, contestants were battling with their holo casters, cards flashing.

Returning to Lumiose City, Natsume couldn’t help but sigh to himself:

“Now this is what Duel City should feel like.”

On Southern Street, the café—home to mythicals, legendary Pokémon, and plenty of cute critters—was as lively and warm as ever.

“I’m back,” Natsume called out.

He waved at Steenee, who was up on her tiptoes, rag in hand, cleaning the window.

Steenee froze, then smiled, her red eyes sparkling as she grinned wide: “Steenee~”

Welcome home, shopkeeper!

In the gardens—

A lush “Tree of Beginning—Budget Model” cast a gentle canopy of shade.

A swirl of darkness lingered beneath the trees, pulsing with powerful aura.

Darkrai leaned against the trunk, arms folded, white haze twisting around him, electric blue eyes looking skyward.

It had been a whole year since he started traveling with Natsume.

He’d found his place in this family, but sometimes he still dreamt of Alamos Town—and Alicia.

Her brilliant smile hadn’t faded, always encouraging him to do what he thought was right, to stop wandering, to stay here in their gardens.

And sometimes… Darkrai dreamt of Natsume as well.

Whenever he had nightmares.

Darkrai shook his head slightly, face aloof, but turned as his gaze landed on Delibird in the gardens.

“Delibird~” Delibird had a backpack over its shoulder and watering can in hand, tending to the flowers.

When Blastoise left, he’d entrusted the garden’s fields to reliable Delibird.

There wasn’t an ounce of ill intent in Delibird’s aura, which was why even solid, steady Blastoise had chosen him for the job.

In the bright sun and lush greenery, Delibird looked overjoyed. He fluffed his white feathers and let out a contented sigh, “Delibird!”

Alright, today’s job is done!

“Delibird.” A calm voice resonated.

Delibird turned and saw the imposing Darkrai. He asked,

“Why did you choose to stay here?”

Delibird paused, cocked his head, and thought for a while.

Why, indeed?

Well, because the shopkeeper treats me well. We’ve known each other since Sandgem Town.

Even if I’m not one of his Pokémon, even if I don’t fight for him, there are still things only I can do.

Making deliveries, carrying goods, bringing gifts for everyone…

As Darkrai watched Delibird contemplate, his gaze softened for a moment.

I remember Delibird declined Natsume’s Poké Ball.

Not every Pokémon wants to battle, to enter a Poké Ball, or be “caught” by a human.

Some Pokémon make their own way, blending into human society as equals.

Even without being “caught,” they can form bonds all the same.

Darkrai looked back at the blue sky, a wave of melancholy rising in his heart.

Alicia, lately I’ve been dreaming of a forest more and more.

But the ones with me now are Gengar, Blastoise, Sylveon… and Natsume.

My agreement with him has ended, and this “bond” just makes me feel even less at ease.

Alicia, I think… it’s time for me to leave, to go back to Alamos Town.

In that instant, Darkrai’s pupils shrank.

Golden clouds lit by the sun twisted into Alicia’s signature braids.

Her smile was just as bright and gentle as always as she said:

“Do what feels right, Darkrai.”

Darkrai’s eyes turned misty. He rasped,

“Can I… really stay?”

“Of course.”

Alicia hugged Darkrai. Back then, he hadn’t been a Battle Legend—just a weak, wounded fugitive, saved by Alicia’s kindness.

“You’ll always be welcome in our gardens.”

Sunlight faded behind clouds; the golden glow and Alicia’s image gradually disappeared.

Darkrai stood in silence for a long while, regal as ever, before slowly turning—just a little startled—

“Natsume…”

The black-haired young man’s coat fluttered as he stood, Dream Ball in his palm, more serious than ever:

“No more employee contracts, Darkrai.”

Natsume smiled.

“Just… stay.”

Darkrai’s eyes flickered. He took a deep breath and huffed,

“So you’re trying to get all this for free?”

“As if! Golden Pokéblocks for days. Delibird, that goes for you too.”

“Delibird!” Delibird shyly tucked his watering can behind his back.

Darkrai’s gaze drifted to the Poké Ball in Natsume’s hand, brow furrowing,

“Why do I sense such familiar dream energy from this ball?”

“I chose it just for you,” Natsume said. “It’s a forest inside, and you can come and go as you please—even the ‘release’ key is yours to control.”

For a moment, Darkrai was speechless.

“I just…” Natsume paused. “want you to stay.”

“As my partner, friend, comrade-in-arms… and—family.”

Clouds broke as golden sunlight spilled down on Natsume and Darkrai.

They gazed at each other in silence.

All at once, Darkrai broke into a cocky, Sinnoh-level grin and reached out his claw.

Natsume shook it—and the moment their hands met, Darkrai turned into a dazzling red flash.

Gengar, Sylveon, Arcanine, Delibird… everyone gaped at the Dream Ball lying on the bushes.

A second later—

From inside the café came a spectacular wail—“ohhhhh!”—

The Dream Ball now housed Alamos Town’s Darkrai… no, he should be called Pokémon Café’s Darkrai now.

The ball shook three times.

Ding—!

A clear, pleasant chime rang out.

Natsume was a little dazed.

At that moment, a shadowy figure rose behind him. Arms folded, Darkrai smirked coldly:

“You’d better not skip a single Pokéblock.”

Natsume grinned, relieved, “You got it!”

Dream Ball. Battle Legend. Darkrai.

Another “unofficial” Pokémon had joined the team!

Gengar held the Dream Ball aloft: “Gengar! (≧▽≦)”

Natsume: “That’s mine—!”

Gengar squinted, scratching his head bashfully. “Gengar~”

Whatever’s yours is mine, whatever’s mine is ours~!