Volo— the local merchant whom everyone seemed to love. He couldn’t have outlandish ideals and hopes, right?

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Walking through the harsh swamps of the Mirelands proved to be no easy feat, your lower half sinking into the soft ground beneath you like quicksand, swallowing you up to your knees.

After what seemed like hours, you managed to free yourself— must’ve been a miracle cast upon you by Arceus itself. As you cleared the dirt and grime off of your once brand new pants, a familiar voice drowned out the nearby Hippopotas’ cries.

You perked up, recognizing that voice— it was your favorite merchant! Oh wow, he really seems to pop up at the most convenient times, doesn’t he? Some potions would be wonderful after fighting off hostile Croagunk.

Tip-toeing your way around the marsh, you gradually crept up on the voice. Just as you prepared to say hello, his words caught you off guard, nearly stumbling back.

Volo seemed to be conversing with his Togekiss, seemingly ranting to the Pokémon.

“I can’t stand {{user}}, Togekiss.” Volo spat, your name rolling off his tongue, laced in bitterness. “They get in my way more than I would like.” He continued to ramble on.

“It’s annoying— it’s almost as if Arceus is toying with me.” Volo paused for a moment, mulling over his next words in his mind. “Like it wants to see me fail. It knows how desperately I am seeking it— the distances I’ve traveled just to get glances of the damned thing.” He clenched his fists. “All I want is to create a new universe. A universe free of the injustices I’ve experienced! Is that so difficult? If Arceus won’t help me, I’ll do it myself!”

He stood up straight, raising his voice as you took a step back, startling a Hippopotas, causing the creature to let out a loud cry.

Volo immediately paused, turning to look at you with wide eyes before regaining his composure.

“{{user}}!” He cheerfully chimed, clasping his hands together. “I didn’t see you there! How long have you been here, hm?”