Sky's the limit

Chapter 8

Here, have a chapter. Yippee.

"Everyone, please quiet down!" Chatot said. "I have an announcement to make."

The gathered apprentices exchanged confused looks as their voices lowered. Gina looked over at Soren, who simply shrugged.

Chatot cleared his throat before speaking. "Far to the Northeast and into its outermost reaches, there is a place called Treeshroud Forest. Apparently, time has come to a standstill there."

A shocked gasp spread through the crowd.

"Time has stopped?!"

"That's insane! How did that even happen?!"

"Indeed, time has completely stopped," Chatot continued. "The wind does not blow, the clouds do not move, and dewdrops on leaves do not fall, instead hanging on the edge, suspended in midair. In Treeshroud Forest...time itself has truly ended."

"Th-that can't be!" Dugtrio exclaimed.

"How could this have happened?" Sunflora said. "It's like...like the unthinkable has happened!"

"That is indeed the truth, Sunflora," the Flying-type stated. "The reason time has stopped in Treeshroud Forest is because...its Time Gear was stolen."

Gina's eyes widened. "Seriously?"

"Hey, hey, it seems so!" Corphish replied.

"Now that it's really happened, it does seem like it's entirely possible!" Chimecho put in.

"I don't get it, though!" Loudred yelled. "Why would anyone take a Time Gear?!"

Chatot flapped his wings. "Everyone, please quiet down!" The noise eventually died down, and Chatot went on. "Officer Magnezone has already begun to investigate. He warns everyone to keep a sharp eye out for any suspicious characters. Please keep this in mind as you all go about your work. If you understand all of that, then we'd best get on with work as usual! Here's to another good day!"

"HOORAY!"

The apprentices dispersed, and Gina and Soren were about to follow them when Chatot called for them. "I wonder what he wants," Soren said.

Chatot began to speak when they approached. "Even after what happened a few days ago, you two have done very admirable work for the guild so far, especially your capture of Drowzee. So, the Guildmaster and I have decided that today you shall embark on your first exploration!"

Gina bounced up and down excitedly. "We're going to go on our first exploration! Yay!" She paused and frowned. "I don't really know what it means... Still, this is so exciting!"

Chatot motioned for her to stop jumping. "Now, please open your Wonder Map."

Soren dug through their Treasure Bag until he found the rolled paper. He undid the red ribbon tied around it and unrolled the map. "So, where are we headed?"

The Flying-type pointed with his wing at a waterfall on the map. "This is where we would like you to explore. We have received word that there may be a method of exploring this waterfall to unravel the secrets it may hold. We want you to investigate this place and see if the rumors are true. Understood?"

Gina nodded excitedly, but Soren was completely still, and his partner noticed that he was slightly trembling. "Soren? You okay?"

Chatot's voice took on a worried tone. "A-are you alright?"

"I-I'm fine," Soren replied shakily. "It's just the anticipation that's making me nervous. I feel so excited, but I can't help feeling all worked up." Soren turned to Gina, his eyes lit up with delight. "Can you believe this, Gina? This is so awesome! Let's go prepare right away!"