A pitch-black figure, almost blending into the surrounding environment, appeared before him.
The whole body surged with black mist forming its body, surrounded by red jagged collar-like elements around its neck, its pitch-black arms hung quietly at its sides. Most striking was its head, covered with hair-like features formed by surging dark mist, covering most of its face, and a bright blue eye staring intently at Natsuhiko.
Nightmare God!
Darkrai!
A pure Dark Type Pokémon, also known as a Phantom Beast!
It is a rather special existence among many Pokémon.
Back in Snow Peak City, Dragapult mentioned seeing the Nightmare God Darkrai as well as the Dream God Cresselia. The next day, Natsuhiko chose to slip away, leaving Snow Peak City.
It wasn't just because he was somewhat afraid of Darkrai, but also because of some of Darkrai's characteristics.
It is the "Death God Child" of the Pokémon Realm.
Wherever it appears, trouble surely follows.
What Natsuhiko never imagined was that this Darkrai would follow him all the way from Snow Peak City to Lily Island, and even after he entered and exited Groudon's Alternate Space, it immediately found him.
Can't escape.
So he might as well not try to dodge.
Therefore, Natsuhiko directly called out its name.
Noticing the slight confusion in Darkrai's eyes, Natsuhiko calmly explained:
"Champion, I will not become the Champion."
Even without discussing the semifinals, he wasn't even sure if he could face them, not to mention that he didn't think he could be a match for Lance, Hilona, and Flint.
The difference in foundation between him and them is not something that can be made up in such a short time through adventures, encounters, or information advantages.
Unless he was willing to reveal Mega Evolution and expose Togekiss's Fairy Type.
But even so, there's no guarantee of victory.
The main point is, exposing these things now, given Natsuhiko's current identity and strength, might not be able to withstand the repercussions it would bring.
Mega Evolution is one thing, but revealing the Fairy Type is not something he can just decide to do.
Currently, Fairy Energy in the Pokémon Realm is so scarce, with his Togekiss being the only Fairy Type.
Even if he spoke of the Fairy Type's existence, others might not believe it, thinking instead that Natsuhiko's Togekiss is special, inviting unnecessary covetousness.
Hence, whether Natsuhiko wants to be the Champion or not is irrelevant; even if he wanted to, it would be difficult.
Precisely because of this understanding, Natsuhiko immediately recognized the anomaly in the seemingly "beautiful" dream Darkrai created.
Upon hearing Natsuhiko's words, an expression of realization and understanding flashed in Darkrai's eyes.
"Why have you been following me? Do you have something to say to me?" Natsuhiko asked.
Though Darkrai carries the infamous title of "Nightmare God," it might not be as malicious as it sounds.
Creating nightmares is the existential purpose of Pokémon like it.
Just as bird Pokémon like to fly and fish Pokémon like water, creating nightmares is its instinct.
Only by noting that Darkrai appears during major incidents to try to prevent them can one realize its inherently kind nature.
"The magma is about to awaken."
Darkrai's deep, hoarse voice sounded in Natsuhiko's mind.
Magma?
Natsuhiko's thoughts raced, "Are you referring to Groudon?"
Darkrai silently nodded.
Groudon is about to awaken?
Because they intruded into Groudon's Alternate Space?
Or because he...brought out the Shell Fragments of Original Groudon?
That remains unknown.
But one thing is certain, Groudon's awakening will surely bring about a great disaster.
Is this why Darkrai left its dwelling island?
But then...
What does it have to do with him?
Could it be wanting him to stop Groudon's awakening?
Isn't it likely that a single "Sword of the Cliff" could slice him apart?
"Wait, since it's related to Groudon, why have you shown me Giratina so many times before?"
Natsuhiko came to a realization.
In his previous nightmares, Giratina was the protagonist, so how did it suddenly connect to Groudon?
You sure are involved in a lot, aren't you?
Darkrai, after a brief silence, then said again, "Just to scare you."
Natsuhiko: "..."
That single sentence almost made him suffer internal injuries.
If it weren't that the guy standing opposite him was someone he couldn't provoke, Natsuhiko would have definitely blurted out some expletives.
'Might as well not call it the Nightmare God anymore, just call it the Prank God.'
But Natsuhiko only thought about it, as he didn't dare to say such things out loud. What if Darkrai got angry and trapped him in a dream forever?
He then revealed a look of helplessness.
"But telling me this doesn't help, I don't have the power to stop it. I think you should find some stronger Trainers, they might have a solution."
Natsuhiko tentatively suggested, "Otherwise...should I introduce my teacher to you? She's very strong and surely would have a way."
At times like this, a teacher is the best shield.
But Darkrai slowly shook its head.
"Cannot be stopped."
Cannot be stopped...
"Then what do you want..."
"Your Pokemon Egg, find them, summon the Sky God, and stop..." Darkrai's voice gradually blurred, its form also slowly dissipating.