Lambency (Ingo x Reader)

33. The Railway of No Return

"Here you are, guys! We were looking for you!", Adaman calls out. Leafeon, Akari and Volo are standing next to him.

"Hey, Adaman! Sorry, we were--"

"Searching for Cyndaquil? Yep, we know."

Typhlosion appears from behind Volo and runs on her four legs towards your group. Sneasel's fur instantly stands on end.

Cyndaquil is sitting on Rhyhorn's head and happily cheeps to greet her mother.

Typhlosion examines her in every angle before scolding her. As her pup snivels, she holds her by the neck and walks away.

"Ah, mum's upset...", comments Volo, following them with his gaze.

"Still, Typhlosion appeared soothed.", replies Ingo. "On the other hand, Sneasel seems distressed."

The Pokémon is shivering and hides between the warden's legs.

"Say, Tulsi, where does this one come from?", Adaman asks, pointing at Sudowodoo.

"Come on, Adaman! Don't you recognise my darling Bonsly? He's all grown-up, now!"

"Wow, impressive! I bet it's all thanks to (Name)! Now, if you'll excuse us, Tulsi, there is an important matter we must discuss. See you later!"

"Very well, Adaman. Bye, (Name) and Warden Ingo! Come, Sudowodoo, my grandchildren won't believe their eyes!"

The rest of you enters Adaman's place, excepted Rhyhorn, who does not dare to. Out of respect.

"All good with your neck, (Name)? How's your shoulder, Ingo?", asks Adaman.

"Better, thanks for asking, Adaman."

"In the process of healing, my Lord. Thank you for your concern."

"I'm relieved you're feeling better, Mister Ingo! I was so worried about you!"

"Thank you for your kind assistance yesterday, Miss Akari, I am grateful you had my back. And Mister Volo, you have my heartfelt thanks as well. (Name) recounted to me how you had attempted to distract the Alpha Honchkrow to let them escape."

"Who? Me? I didn't do much, really! Mistress Calaba is the true heroine here! I'm but an ordinary merchant, after all.", he replies with seemingly false modesty.

"It was an outstanding prowess, everyone! Aibika and her parents are grateful to all of you! By the way, until she fully recovers, I was thinking to have (Name) take over her job!"

You are caught off guard as he turns to your direction.

"About that...", you begin hesitantly.

"Say no more! I'm well-aware you're reluctant to be confined only to the settlement for that kind of activity, that's why I intend to have you join the scouting expeditions with our mobile teams deployed throughout Hisui... To places like Coronet Highlands or in the vicinity of Jubilife Village. Doesn't it sound grand? Besides... It's temporary. If you don't like it, we'll find another way to put you to service. It's time you start earning your keep!", he grins.

His wink makes your jaw drop. Are you such an open book?!

"That is... exactly what I wanted, Adaman! T-thank you!"