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The two humans on his back argued.
“Steven, this Pokemon came to us for help—”
“I don’t know if that was the right decision, though.”
“Why are you so hung up on this?”
“You’ve seen the cave paintings—look, May, you can’t blame me for being cautious—most of the legends I’ve seen depict chaos.”
Latios resisted the urge to bristle, knowing it might nudge one of his passengers off. It had only been a few moments since he had convinced the two humans to soar with him. Well, he had persuaded one—the girl had immediately dashed forward, resonating with his sense of urgency. She'd chattered animatedly, cooing at him comfortingly before she braced herself on his side and struggled to clamber on. The silver-haired young man with her had stepped forward, looking hesitant. But even with clear apprehension on his face, he'd supported the girl and made sure she was secure, before climbing on himself. Latios had taken off immediately and was amused by the two different reactions—an excited scream from the girl, and a brief cry of panic from the other.
Unknown to the two, their destination was a small island in the distance, encircled by cliffs and trees. He called up images of the lush greenery, the clear waters, the mischievous antics of his twin. Humans called it Southern Island, but for Latios, it was home.
Despite these calming thoughts, Latios felt that some things needed to be said.
I do not see any reason we need them both, he thought, mentally making his displeasure known to his twin. They have begun to argue between themselves.
You’ve never questioned my choices before.
He could hear a touch of amusement in Latias’s tone. It didn’t help his mood; sometimes his twin’s playfulness left him frustrated and annoyed. Latias wasn't even present, wasn't even flying in circles around him, and yet he could hear her mirth surrounding him.
I do when it comes to humans, he finally replied.
But have my feelings ever steered you wrong?
He didn’t want to respond to that. In most emotional matters, his twin held the upper hand. Latias had a deep affection for humans, and understanding their hearts was second nature to her. She loved to walk among them, invisible, her ringing bells of laughter the only indication of her presence. He preferred to soar in the skies, to ride the wind wherever it took him.
He felt the same spirit of freedom deep in the girl’s heart—May’s heart. She radiated wonder and delight in all things. A bright light shone from deep within her soul that yearned to touch everything it could reach. She felt limitless. A gleaming beacon of hope, of promise.
I can see the potential in the girl. Why bring the other?
The young man—Steven, he’d been called—felt like the opposite. He worked in shadows and stone—fascinated by things that shine, drawn by treasure other humans sought. He was too cautious, too careful. Too entrenched in the movements of the world and bound by them.
I know what you are thinking, Latias interrupted his reverie. But he does not have the same greed.
Grudgingly, Latios had to agree. He could, if he really wanted to, admit that there was plenty that was good in this Steven. Underneath that restraint, there was a strong sense of justice, fierce determination—and immense strength. That couldn’t be denied.
I know you can see it, Latias chuckled in his mind. He was meant to guide her. To be by her side. He sees her potential the same way you do.
This time, Latios did bristle, and there was an audible gasp of alarm as the weight shifted on his back.
“May, hold on—”
Latios leaned slightly in the other direction, allowing the pair to adjust. For the first time since he’d allowed them to ride, he turned to face the two humans. It hadn’t taken long for Steven to set everything to rights. One arm was wrapped securely around May’s waist to keep her from slipping off, while the other arm held on to Latios’s side, keeping them in balance. Both of May’s hands gripped Steven’s arm tightly, clinging for dear life. As Latios held his gaze on them, Steven tightened his hold protectively around May’s waist. Latios peered past the the storm clouds in Steven’s eyes, and what he saw surprised him. Beyond the grey mist, there was steel in his heart and in his spine, held together by little fractures of light. A familiar light.
Perhaps Latias’s words held another meaning.
An amused, delighted hum vibrated in Latios’s throat, and he allowed himself to soar, truly soar. He took them higher amid the sounds of their confused protests. Clouds faded into mist and every air current was nothing compared to his speed, his maneuverability. Somewhere along the way, their voices calmed, and their hearts drummed together in perfect rhythm.
There is nothing you need to fear.
There was a brief pause, and Latios allowed them their moment of surprise before he allowed his thoughts to resonate in their minds once more. There is much to be done.
An evil has permeated these lands, these waters, and the task has fallen to you both to prevent it from taking root.
Will you accept?
He faced them, anticipating their answers. To Latios's surprise, Steven's hand reached up to grip May’s reassuringly, and he responded first. “Take us where you need us. We’ll do everything we can.”
May nodded vigorously in agreement. “You can count on us. Both of us,” she added, squeezing Steven's hand in understanding.
Latios felt the weight shift on his back once more as the pair leaned against each other. Southern Island was within sight, and the green of the trees called to him. Latias's ringing bells echoed deep in the woods, and in his mind.
“Steven.” He heard May’s whisper.
“Yes?” came the quiet response.
“When did you change your mind?”
“Somewhere between your confidence and your stubbornness.”
There was a soft chuckle, then Steven murmured, “Your presence alone makes me think anything is possible.”
“You really think so?”
“I do.”
Their hands were clasped together, fingers entangled.
Latios soared on, satisfied.
All that was left was the future.