Pokémon: Tears of the Fallen

Chapter 18: Until We Meet ΔgΔin

Ash: *angry expression* "Alain, who's this?"

Alain: "This is--"

Domino: "You're not gonna say it, are you, Alain?"

Dawn: "Say what?"

Alain: "Her real name. I'm not. She doesn't share it with most people, even some in the Tekiyoku."

Domino: "You can call me a bunch of names. The Black Tulip, 009, or, most commonly, Domino. I'm from Blackthorn City, Johto. I'm in the Tekiyoku and I know Alain very well."

Ash: "Well, forget it! Anything you wanna say to Alain, you can say it here in front of us all."

Alain: "Ash, it's okay. I'll talk to her. Just wait here."

Ash: "Huh? But, Alain..."

Alain: "I promise nothing bad is gonna happen. I'll be right back."

Alain and Domino walk away on their own.

Domino: "It's been three long years. I see you've found traveling partners. Who's that guy? He's feisty."

Alain: "As you heard, his name is Ash. I was instructed to travel with him by Arceus. And that girl is HIS friend, not mine."

Domino: "What kind of Manipulator is he? I heard you got two Plates."

Alain: "He isn't one yet, but I already told him what kind he'll be. You don't worry about that. Worry about your Fighting Manipulation skills."

Domino: "I've been practicing, rest assured. You're still mad at your mother?"

Alain: "Heck, yeah. I can never forgive someone for abandoning me like that. But cut to the chase. What are you here for?"

Domino: "Come on, you surely must know what I wanna talk to you about."

Alain: "You're here to ask me two things. I know what they are. And the answer to both of them is no."

Domino: "That's all you have for me?"

Alain: "Domino... You've tried for years, but no... I won't go out with you."

Domino: "You haven't changed a bit... Shouldn't we give this a try before it's too late? Or do you just not like older women?"

Alain: "You're not that much older than me. And I have to focus. I wanna finally do right in this world. That's why the answer to your other question is no: I won't come back to the Tekiyoku."

Domino: "So stubborn as usual. So there's nothing I can do to change your mind?"

Alain: "Actually, there might be... Leave the Tekiyoku and fight alongside me."

Domino: "I cannot do that. Master Lysandre is whom I must obey. I could never leave the group so easily."

Alain: "Suit yourself. So, are we fighting here or what?"

Domino: "No. I do appreciate that you're trying to help people, so I'll let you pass. I'll just tell Lysandre that you defeated me or something. I really miss our talks. I hope you come back to us and give me and you a chance. I think we'd have something special. Anyway, farewell, Alain Takahata."

Alain: "Wait... Before you leave, we're on our way to your hometown, Blackthorn City... and Ash has been acting a little strange. He keeps hearing things that we don't. He says it's some kind of singing. Do you know why?"

Domino: "Oh, that's interesting. Is it getting stronger as you all get closer?"

Alain: "Yes, it seems so."

Domino: *chuckles* "Then, I think you'll find your answer soon in Blackthorn City. I must leave now. Until we meet again. But I might have to fight you next time."