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Old 02-13-2016, 07:44 PM   #1
MarbleZone
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Volcarona "The Tales of Three - Levin, Gale & Luther"


Spoiler: show
Trainer

Name: Levin Sanders
Gender: Male
Age: 25
Hometown: Saffron City, Kanto
Bio: Levin is a young Trainer on his journey, like so many others. But in his mind, he's destined to be much more than the regular kid that embarks on a traditional adventure.

Born in Saffron City, in the Kanto Region, he is the younger of two siblings. His brother Ivan, a world-class Trainer, passed away during his journey after a tragic event on Kanto's Victory Road. His father was a renowned Public Order League Trainer, and his mother a modest Berry farmer.

He is a self-centered, overconfident young man who believes his skills and intellect to be above that of most people. At his core, he wants nothing more than the recognition he feels he deserves; his whole life has been a struggle for acknowledgement, having lived in Ivan’s shadow since he was a little boy. The Steel-Type specialist made a name for himself as one the of best Trainers in the world before passing away, and since then, Levin has vowed to carry the Sanders legacy through his own accomplishments. At first bitter towards his brother’s disappearance, he has since made peace with him after reuniting with Ivan’s spirit and learning the truth about his fate, with help from Faust, a Duskull he owned at one point.

Certainly not someone who jumps straight into action, Levin prefers to keep his distance until he formulates a proper plan. There's nothing he hates more than not being in control of the situation, though it can be argued that he sometimes drives himself into a corner purposefully for added mental challenge - unless, of course, the situation is so dire there is no need for the extra pressure. He is also not afraid of taking alternative, morally dubious paths to achieve his goals - if he needs to lie or cheat his way out of a problem when his wits alone are insufficient, he has no qualms about it, especially in the face of potential rewards.

Hopelessly manipulative, he has a hard time opening up to other people in fear of putting himself into a disadvantage. Every action must be weighed in terms of risk and reward, and the dangers of opening up to someone new usually outnumber the benefits; as such, although he relies heavily on his silver tongue to get him out of tough spots, he has a very small circle of friends – and a disproportionately large number of acquaintances he has taken advantage of, or plans to in the future. This mindset has cost him on occasion, and in his heart he wishes he could be different… but he’s far too accustomed to this approach by now, and has built walls so high around him that he sometimes wonders if he’ll ever make another human friend again.

His relationship with Pokemon is vastly different. He sees training as his job and his life’s calling; that makes his partners more than regular pets, they’re the lifeblood of his profession and the reason he keeps journeying. His Pokemon are the greatest source of power he’ll ever own, and his only chance at making a name for himself in the world. As such, he makes sure they’re always as happy and comfortable around him as they can be – after all, it’s in his best interest that they care for him. But more than that, Levin genuinely cares for his Pokemon companions in return, and will go the extra mile for them, even if it means hurting himself in the process. He sees this as proof that he hasn’t forsaken all of his humanity in his quest for fame and fortune; while he has let a large number of partners go in the interest of profit, he has since looked back on these actions with regret, vowing to never again welcome a Pokemon into his life that he doesn’t intend to raise properly.






Pokémon (PokeDex in use: ORAS)


((Starter was a Mincinno, no longer on the team from an RP standpoint))


Zion
Spoiler: show
Level: 50
Gender: Genderless
Ability: Clear Body
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Quiet
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with lilbluecorsola

Level-Up Moves:
Magnet Rise
Take Down
Metal Claw
Confusion
Pursuit
Miracle Eye
Zen Headbutt
Bullet Punch
Scary Face
Agility
Psychic
Meteor Mash
Hammer Arm
Iron Defense
Hyper Beam

Egg Moves:
N/A

Move Tutor Moves:
Gravity
Headbutt
Ice Punch
Iron Head
Signal Beam

Custom/Event Moves:
Gummi Bomb ("STEEL: User launches gummi-shaped energy bomb that sticks to the opponent and explodes after 2 turns, dealing damage equal to Sludge Bomb. Explodes even if removed prior to detonation.")
Crossfire

TM Moves:
Brick Break
Bulldoze
Earthquake
Flash Cannon
Gyro Ball
Hone Claws
Light Screen
Power-Up Punch
Protect
Psyshock
Reflect
Rock Slide
Shadow Ball
Sludge Bomb
Telekinesis

HM Moves:
Cut
Flash
Rock Smash
Strength

IQ: 47
Happiness: 0




Bud
Spoiler: show
Level: 33
Gender: Male
Ability: Overgrow
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Docile
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with seakittenyfool

Level-Up Moves:
Tackle
Growl
Leech Seed
Vine Whip
PoisonPowder
Sleep Powder
Take Down
Razor Leaf
Sweet Scent
Growth
Double Edge
Worry Seed
Synthesis

Egg Moves:
Leaf Storm
Light Screen
Magical Leaf
Petal Dance
Power Whip

Move Tutor Moves:
Frenzy Plant
Grass Pledge
Swords Dance

Custom/Event Moves:
N/A

TM Moves:
Bullet Seed
Energy Ball
Giga Drain
Grass Knot
Protect
Reflect
Safeguard
Sludge Bomb
Substitute
Toxic
Venoshock

HM Moves:
Cut
Flash
Rock Smash
Strength

IQ: 2

Happiness: 10




Hazo
Spoiler: show
Level: 53
Gender: Male
Ability: Inner Focus
Evolution: --->
Holding:
Nature: Quiet
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Sneezey12

Level-Up Moves:
Extreme Speed
Close Combat
Aura Sphere
Dark Pulse
Foresight
Quick Attack
Endure
Detect
Metal Claw
Counter
Feint
Metal Sound
Bone Rush
Quick Guard
Me First
Calm Mind
Heal Pulse
Nasty Plot
Force Palm

Egg Moves:
Agility
Blaze Kick
Bullet Punch
Cross Chop
Crunch
Hi Jump Kick
Iron Defense
Mind Reader
Sky Uppercut
Vacuum Wave

Move Tutor Moves:
Dragon Pulse
Drain Punch
Focus Punch
Ice Punch
Iron Tail
Magnet Rise

Custom/Event Moves:
Copycat
Firestream

TM Moves:
Bulk Up
Calm Mind
Dig
Double Team
Earthquake
Flash Cannon
Focus Blast
Hone Claws
Low Sweep
Poison Jab
Power-Up Punch
Psychic
Rock Tomb
Shadow Ball
Shadow Claw
Swords Dance
Stone Edge
Water Pulse
Work Up

HM Moves:
Rock Climb
Rock Smash
Strength

IQ: 4

Happiness: 10




Baroque
Spoiler: show
Level: 46
Gender: Male
Ability: Solid Rock
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Adamant
Pokéball:
Obtained: Egg House

Level-Up Moves:
Rock Wrecker
Poison Jab
Horn Drill
Megahorn
Horn Attack
Tail Whip
Stomp
Fury Attack
Scary Face
Smack Down
Rock Blast
Bulldoze
Chip Away
Drill Run
Take Down
Stone Edge
Hammer Arm

Egg Moves:
Crunch
Crush Claw
Dragon Rush
Iron Tail
Metal Burst

Move Tutor Moves:
Aqua Tail
Body Slam
Dragon Pulse
Dynamic Punch
Earth Power
Flamethrower
Ice Beam
Superpower
Thunderbolt

Custom/Event Moves:
N/A

TM Moves:
Avalanche
Bide
Bubblebeam
Dig
Dragon Tail
Endure
Fissure
Flash Cannon
Focus Blast
Hyper Beam
Pay Day
Rock Polish
Rock Tomb
Seismic Toss
Shadow Claw
Swords Dance
Water Gun
Zap Cannon

HM Moves:
Cut
Rock Climb
Rock Smash
Strength
Surf
Whirlpool

IQ: 4

Happiness: 10




Basker
Spoiler: show
Level: 34
Gender: Male
Ability: Intimidate
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Brave
Pokéball:
Obtained: Egg House

Level-Up Moves:
Bite
Roar
Thunder Fang
Fire Fang
Odor Sleuth
Ember
Leer
Extreme Speed
Flamethrower
Agility

Egg Moves:
Close Combat
Crunch
Flare Blitz
Morning Sun

Move Tutor Moves:
Dragon Pulse
Outrage

Custom/Event Moves:
N/A

TM Moves:
Bulldoze
Dig
Double Team
Dragon Breath
Dragon Rage
Fire Blast
Flame Charge
Snarl
Teleport
Wild Charge
Will-o-Wisp

HM Moves:
Rock Climb
Rock Smash
Strength

IQ: 1

Happiness: 10




Oro
Spoiler: show
Level: 32
Gender: Male
Ability: Sturdy
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Lax
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Missingno. Master

Level-Up Moves:
Thunder Fang
Ice Fang
Fire Fang
Mud Sport
Tackle
Harden
Bind
Screech
Curse
Rock Throw
Rock Tomb
Rage
Stealth Rock
Autotomize
Gyro Ball
Smack Down
Dragon Breath
Slam

Egg Moves:
Block
Explosion
Heavy Slam
Rock Blast
Stealth Rock

Move Tutor Moves:
Ancient Power
Body Slam
Dragon Pulse
Earth Power
Iron Head
Iron Tail
Rock Slide
Twister

Custom/Event Moves:
Ice Beam

TM Moves:
Bide
Bulldoze
Dig
Dragon Tail
Fissure
Flash Cannon
Gyro Ball
Protect
Roar
Rock Polish
Rock Tomb
Sandstorm
Skull Bash
Taunt

HM Moves:
Rock Climb
Rock Smash
Strength

IQ: 1

Happiness: 10




Leon
Spoiler: show
Level: 37
Gender: Male
Ability: Steadfast
Evolution: ---> ---> ---> (recolour confirmed)
Holding: N/A
Nature: Calm
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with uhhhhh

Level-Up Moves:
Stored Power
Close Combat
Leaf Blade
Night Slash
Leer
Growl
Confusion
Double Team
Teleport
Disarming Voice
Lucky Chant
Magical Leaf
Heal Pulse
Draining Kiss
Calm Mind
Psychic
Imprison
Future Sight
Charm
Hypnosis
Psycho Cut
Fury Cutter
Wide Guard
Slash
Swords Dance

Egg Moves:
Confuse Ray
Disable
Misty Terrain
Will-O-Wisp

Move Tutor Moves:
N/A

Custom/Event Moves:
Voodoo Bugaloo

TM Moves:
Charge Beam
Dazzling Gleam
Grass Knot
Light Screen
Protect
Psyshock
Reflect
Return
Safeguard
Shadow Ball
Taunt
Thunderbolt
Thunder Wave
Trick Room

HM Moves:
CutRock SmashStrength

IQ: 2

Happiness: 10






Eld
Spoiler: show
Level: 59
Gender: Male
Ability: Flame Body
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Quiet
Pokéball:
Obtained: Breeding Center

Level-Up Moves:
Fiery Dance
Hurricane
Rage Powder
Heat Wave
Quiver Dance
Flare Blitz
Thrash
Amnesia
Bug Buzz
Flame Wheel
Gust
Ember
String Shot
Leech Life
Take Down
Flame Charge
Bug Bite
Double Edge

Egg Moves:
Double Team
Morning Sun
Zen Headbutt

Move Tutor Moves:
Giga Drain

Custom/Event Moves:
Fire Shield

TM Moves:
Psychic

HM Moves:
Fly

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Ciel
Spoiler: show
Level: 50
Gender: Female
Ability: Magic Guard
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Naive
Pokéball:
Obtained: Egg House

Level-Up Moves:
Disarming Voice
Sing
Double Slap
Minimize
Metronome
Pound
Charm
Encore
Sing
Sweet Kiss
Copycat
Magical Leaf
After You
Healing Wish
Growl
Double Slap
Defense Curl
Follow Me
Bestow
Wake-Up Slap
Minimize
Stored Power
Metronome
Cosmic Power
Lucky Chant
Body Slam
Moonlight
Moonblast
Gravity
Meteor Mash

Egg Moves:
Amnesia
Aromatherapy
Belly Drum
Heal Pulse
Misty Terrain
Wish

Move Tutor Moves:
Bounce
Drain Punch
Flamethrower
Gravity
Hyper Voice
Ice Beam
Icy Wind
Mega Kick
Mega Punch
Signal Beam
Softboiled
Thunderbolt
Thunder Wave
Water Pulse

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Attract
Shadow Ball
Tri Attack

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 10




Almace
Spoiler: show
Level: 35
Gender: Male
Ability: Stance Change
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Adamant
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Arc_Angel

Level-Up Moves:
Tackle
Swords Dance
Fury Cutter
Metal Sound
Pursuit
Autotomize
Shadow Sneak
Aerial Ace
Retaliate
Slash
Iron Defense
Power Trick
Iron Head
Head Smash
Aerial Ace
King's Shield
Sacred Sword

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
Shock Wave

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Flash Cannon

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 2

Happiness: 0




Kyzer
Spoiler: show
Level: 46
Gender: Male
Ability: Blaze
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding:
Nature: Serious
Pokéball:
Obtained: Breeding Centre

Level-Up Moves:
Air Slash
Dragon Claw
Shadow Claw
Flare Blitz
Heat Wave
Scratch
Growl
Ember
Smokescreen
Dragon Rage
Scary Face
Fire Fang
Flame Burst
Slash
Flamethrower
Fire Spin
Inferno

Egg Moves:
Ancient Power
Crunch
Dragon Dance
Dragon Pulse
Dragon Rush

Move Tutor Moves:
Blast Burn
Iron Tail
Mega Kick
Mega Punch
Rock Slide
Thunder Punch

Custom/Event Moves:
Fire Shield

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 10




Bjorn
Spoiler: show
Level: 40
Gender: Male
Ability: Torrent
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: -
Nature: Bold
Pokéball:
Obtained: Egg House

Level-Up Moves:
Flash Cannon
Tackle
Tail Whip
Water Gun
Withdraw
Bubble
Bite
Rapid Spin
Protect
Water Pulse
Aqua Tail
Skull Bash
Iron Defense
Rain Dance
Hydro Pump

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
Dive
Rock Smash
Strength
Surf
Waterfall
Whirlpool

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0



Last edited by MarbleZone; 10-31-2016 at 11:25 AM.
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Old 02-13-2016, 07:45 PM   #2
MarbleZone
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Spoiler: show
Trainer

Name: Gale Windsor
Gender: Male
Age: 19
Hometown: Violet City, Johto
Bio: Born and raised in Violet City, Gale of House Windsor comes from an influent family. His father, whom he despises for reasons he’s never disclosed, is Gustaph Windsor, Gym Leader in the northernmost region of the Pokemon World, Heiml. His mother is a famous pianist, often invited to perform in various parts of the world and all manner of events. Gale’s upbringing was rigid but thorough; he developed both a love from Pokemon and Arts, something he’s come to regard as being often intertwined.
However, Gale soon discovered there were many aspects of Pokemon training that did not appeal to him, first and foremost battling. He doesn’t see a point in fighting for bragging rights, and as such has never sought to improve his battle knowledge or take on a Gym Challenge. Instead, he was trained by Falkner, Violet City’s Gym Leader, in the ways of bird watching, taming and raising – the youngest Windsor longs to one day soar across the sky himself, on the back of a Pokemon who can carry him, as he’s been fascinated with avian creatures and flying ever since he could remember. However, when time came for his teachings under Falkner to progress to battling lessons… he fled.
Leaving Violet City behind, without his father’s knowledge or his mother’s consent, Gale embarked on a journey to meet as many Legendary Flying Pokemon as he could, being enamored with all manner of tales about the mythic beasts. Originally intending to go to Asbel, where many of these rare creatures have been sighted, an unexpected storm caused his ship to sink… he found himself washed ashore in a foreign region – having been saved, unbeknownst to him, by one of the very legendary creatures he sought to find – and was rescued by Levin Sanders, an Ace Trainer on his own journey to another land. He learned then that he was in Fizzy Bubbles and that there too he could realize his dream. Encouraged by Levin, who gave him his PokeDex to get him started on the path of a Trainer, the aspiring Birdkeeper set off to meet as many flying Pokemon as he could, and hopefully one day come face-to-face with the beasts of yore who dominate the world’s skies…



Pokémon (PokeDex in use: ORAS)




Orion
Spoiler: show
Level: 41
Gender: Male
Ability: Intimidate
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Adamant
Pokéball:
Obtained: Starter; Adoption Centre; Caught by Gale

Level-Up Moves:
Quiver Dance
Ominous Wind
Whirlwind
Bug Buzz
Bubble
Quick Attack
Sweet Scent
Bubble Beam
Agility
Mist
Haze
Aqua Jet
Baton Pass
Sticky Web
Gust
Stun Spore
Silver Wind
Air Slash

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Siegfried
Spoiler: show
Level: 37
Gender: Male
Ability: Keen Eye
Evolution: --> -->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Adamant
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Schala

Level-Up Moves:
Tackle
Growl
Quick Attack
Wing Attack
Double Team
Endeavor
Whirlwind
Aerial Ace
Take Down
Close Combat
Agility
Brave Bird

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
Air Cutter

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Work Up

HM Moves:
Fly

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Musashi
Spoiler: show
Level: 49
Gender: Male
Ability: Keen Eye
Holding: N/A
Nature: Serious
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with PikaGod

Level-Up Moves:
Brave Bird
Poison Jab
Peck
Sand Attack
Leer
Fury Cutter
Fury Attack
Aerial Ace
Knock Off
Slash
Air Cutter
Swords Dance
Agility
Night Slash
Acrobatics
Feint
False Swipe
Air Slash

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Rhadamanthys
Spoiler: show
Level: 56
Gender: Male
Ability: Hydration
Evolution: --> -->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Quiet
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Escalion

Level-Up Moves:
Outrage
Feint
Tackle
Bubble
Absorb
Protect
Bide
Dragon Breath
Rain Dance
Flail
Body Slam
Muddy Water
Dragon Pulse
Aqua Tail
Power Whip

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Beowulf
Spoiler: show
Level: 50
Gender: Male
Ability: Intimidate
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Adamant
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Electric Blue Eye

Level-Up Moves:
Double-Edge
Dragon Tail
Fire Fang
Thunder Fang
Rage
Ember
Leer
Bite
Headbutt
Dragon Breath
Focus Energy
Crunch
Dragon Claw
Protect
Zen Headbutt
Scary Face
Flamethrower
Fly

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Alexander
Spoiler: show
Level: 37
Gender: Male
Ability: Flame Body
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Brave
Pokéball:
Obtained: Caught in the Friend Safari (Generation VI Event)

Level-Up Moves:
Brave Bird
Flare Blitz
Tackle
Growl
Quick Attack
Peck
Agility
Flail
Roost
Razor Wind
Natural Gift
Flame Charge

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
Tailwind

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Acrobatics
Aerial Ace
Double Team
Flamethrower
Incinerate
Overheat
Return
Steel Wing
Sunny Day
Swords Dance
Taunt
U-Turn
Will-O-Wisp

HM Moves:
Fly

IQ: 2

Happiness: 10



Ajax
Spoiler: show
Level: 52
Gender: Male
Ability: Mold Breaker
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Birthday: August 21
Nature: Adamant
Pokéball:
Obtained: Adoption Center

Level-Up Moves:
Outrage
Scratch
Leer
Assurance
Dragon Rage
Dual Chop
Scary Face
Slash
False Swipe
Dragon Claw
Dragon Dance
Taunt
Dragon Pulse
Swords Dance
Guillotine

Egg Moves:
Night Slash

Move Tutor Moves:
Iron Tail

Custom/Event Moves:
Crossfire

TM Moves:
Aerial Ace
Dig
Focus Blast
Hone Claws
Incinerate
Payback
Poison Jab
Return
Roar
Rock Tomb
X-Scissor

HM Moves:
Cut
Rock Smash
Strength

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Cuchulainn
Spoiler: show
Level: 48
Gender: Male
Ability: Intimidate
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Birthday: December 12
Nature: Rash
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with sweetbbydoll

Level-Up Moves:
Splash
Tackle
Thrash
Bite
Hydro Pump
Dragon Rage
Leer
Twister
Ice Fang
Aqua Tail
Rain Dance
Crunch
Dragon Dance
Hurricane

Egg Moves:
N/A

Move Tutor Moves:
N/A

Custom/Event Moves:
N/A

TM Moves:
Blizzard
Bulldoze
Dark Pulse
Dragon Tail
Earthquake
Fire Blast
Flamethrower
Frustration
Ice Beam
Payback
Rest
Roar
Scald
Stone Edge
Thunder
Thunderbolt
Thunder Wave

HM Moves:
Dive
Rock Smash
Strength
Surf
Waterfall
Whirlpool

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Gilgamesh
Spoiler: show
Level: 47
Gender: Male
Ability: Levitate
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Birthday: September 30
Nature: Calm
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with myahoo

Level-Up Moves:
Dragon Dance
Sonic Boom
Sand Attack
Bite
Feint Attack
Bide
Fissure
Superpower
Feint
Mud Slap
Bulldoze
Sand Tomb
Rock Slide
Dig
Crunch
Earth Power
Earthquake
Sandstorm
Hyper Beam
Dragon Claw
Dragon Rush
Bug Buzz
Boomburst

Egg Moves:
Endure
Fury Cutter
Gust
Mud Shot

Move Tutor Moves:
Bug Bite
Dragon Pulse
Signal Beam

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Giga Drain
Rock Tomb
Silver Wind

HM Moves:
Fly
Rock Smash
Strength

IQ: 9

Happiness: 10



Last edited by MarbleZone; 11-21-2016 at 06:43 PM.
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Old 02-16-2016, 06:43 PM   #3
MarbleZone
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Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 1,025


Spoiler: show
Name: Luther C. Helford
Gender: Male
Age: 42
Hometown: Castelia City, Unova
Bio: Luther is a wealthy, accomplished businessman. He deals in all manner of profitable areas, among which the stock market, improvement of Pokemon Safari venues, state-of-the-art Pokemon Center technology, etc.

He is ruthless in the way he handles his business, as cunning as he is cut-throat, and has no qualms about breaking rules to get results. He’s been on trial countless times, having walked out of every single session without a guilty verdict due to “lack of conclusive evidence”. His professional conduct has earned him a fortune, as well as many enemies on every part of the world – but money can buy allies and protection, guaranteeing Luther can continue to carry out his questionable deals virtually unopposed.

Behind his businessman persona lies the true Luther Helford, however – a man whose real passion is his “family” of Dark-Type Pokemon. Luther considers Pokemon in general to be the planet’s dominant species, not mankind, and is fascinated by these creatures’ capabilities, which he considers to be “true power” as opposed to Humanity’s twisted perception of strength. Luther realizes how easily Pokemon could overtake the world if they chose to rebel, and has since turned his back on his own kin to focus on raising the ones he regards as the ultimate species. Dark-Types in particular (a designation he isn’t particularly fond of) resonate with him the most, creatures whose urges and needs are so overpowering that they, more than any other Pokemon Type, actively seek to satisfy them regardless of what’s “right” or “wrong”. That, in Luther’s opinion, makes them the perfect representation of Pokemon’s supremacy, and he lives his life with the single purpose of enabling them to reach their rightful place as rulers of this world.

His disregard for human life, seeing himself and his fellow men as vastly inferior to Pokemon, is also cause of much hatred directed towards the Castelia-native. Not that it bothers Luther one bit; if there was anything his life as a businessman has taught him so far, it’s that everyone has a price, and any ill-will can be soothed with proper incentive. Whatever it takes to ensure his Pokemon family grows, prospers and one day conquers what is theirs by right.



Yakuma
Spoiler: show
Level: 51
Gender: Male
Ability: Iron Fist
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Serious
Pokéball:
Obtained: Starter (Trade with Pest)

Level-Up Moves:
Hammer Arm
Tackle
Leer
Arm Thrust
Work Up
Karate Chop
Comet Punch
Slash
Circle Throw
Vital Throw
Body Slam
Crunch
Entrainment
Parting Shot
Sky Uppercut

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
Cut
Rock Smash
Strength
Surf

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Vlad
Spoiler: show
Level: 52
Gender: Male
Ability: Sniper
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Quirky
Pokéball:
Obtained: Egg House; Obtained by Luther

Level-Up Moves:
Thunder Fang
Ice Fang
Fire Fang
Bite
Poison Sting
Leer
Knock Off
Pin Missile
Acupressure
Pursuit
Bug Bite
Poison Fang
Venoshock
Hone Claws
Toxic Spikes
Night Slash
Scary Face
Crunch
Fell Stinger
Cross Poison

Egg Moves:
Agility
Confuse Ray
Feint Attack
Poison Tail
Whirlwind

Move Tutor Moves:
N/A

Custom/Event Moves:
Brain Freeze
Crossfire
Thorns

TM Moves:
Aerial Ace
Brick Break
Dig
Double Team
Flash
Infestation
Poison Jab
Rock Tomb
Shadow Ball
Sludge Bomb
Substitute
Swords Dance
Taunt
Toxic
X-Scissor

HM Moves:
Cut
Rock Smash
Strength

IQ: 2

Happiness: 10




Ruin
Spoiler: show
Level: 74
Gender: Female
Ability: Levitate
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Rash
Pokéball:
Obtained: Egg House; Obtained by Luther

Level-Up Moves:
Outrage
Hyper Voice
Tri Attack
Double Hit
Tackle
Dragon Rage
Focus Energy
Bite
Headbutt
Dragon Breath
Roar
Crunch
Slam
Dragon Pulse
Work Up
Dragon Rush
Body Slam
Scary Face

Egg Moves:
Dark Pulse
Earth Power
Head Smash

Move Tutor Moves:
Aqua Tail
Draco Meteor

Custom/Event Moves:
Blow-Back
Ice Beam

TM Moves:
Thunder Wave

HM Moves:
Fly
Strength
Surf

IQ: 2

Happiness: 0




Raze
Spoiler: show
Level: 55
Gender: Male
Ability: Sand Stream
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding:
Nature: Serious
Pokéball:
Obtained: Egg House

Level-Up Moves:
Thunder Fang
Fire Fang
Ice Fang
Bite
Leer
Sandstorm
Screech
Chip Away
Rock Slide
Scary Face
Thrash
Dark Pulse
Payback
Crunch
Earthquake
Stone Edge

Egg Moves:
Dragon Dance

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Dig

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Obsid
Spoiler: show
Level: 9
Gender: Male
Ability: Keen Eye
Holding: N/A
Nature: Impish
Pokéball:
Obtained: Adoption Centre

Level-Up Moves:
Mean Look
Zen Headbutt
Leer
Scratch
Foresight
Night Shade
Astonish

Egg Moves:
Metal Burst
Recover

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Psychic

HM Moves:
CutFlash
Rock Smash

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Wicca
Spoiler: show
Level: 44
Gender: Male
Ability: Chlorophyll
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Quiet
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Missingno. Master

Level-Up Moves:
Razor Leaf
Feint Attack
Whirlwind
Nasty Plot
Bide
Harden
Growth
Nature Power
Synthesis
Sunny Day
Explosion
Extrasensory
Leaf Blade
Leaf Tornado
Hurricane
Leaf Storm

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Dig
Energy Ball
Grass Knot
Hidden Power (Fire)
Shadow Ball
Solar Beam

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Golgota
Spoiler: show
Level: 56
Gender: Female
Ability: Overcoat
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Quirky
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Reyzadren

Level-Up Moves:
Brave Bird
Bone Rush
Whirlwind
Mirror Move
Gust
Leer
Fury Attack
Pluck
Nasty Plot
Flatter
Feint Attack
Punishment
Defog
Tailwind
Air Slash
Dark Pulse
Embargo

Egg Moves:
Fake Tears
Knock Off
Mean Look
Scary Face
Steel Wing

Move Tutor Moves:
Block
Foul Play
Heat Wave
Iron Defense
Roost
Sky Attack
Sleep Talk
Snatch
Snore

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Aerial Ace
Return
Rock Tomb
Secret Power
Shadow Ball

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Garm
Spoiler: show
Level: 49
Gender: Male
Ability: Flash Fire
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Brave
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Talon87

Level-Up Moves:
Nasty Plot
Inferno
Thunder Fang
Leer
Ember
Howl
Smog
Roar
Bite
Odor Sleuth
Beat Up
Fire Fang
Feint Attack
Embargo
Foul Play
Flamethrower
Crunch

Egg Moves:
Punishment

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Fire Blast

HM Moves:
Rock Smash

IQ: 0

Happiness: 10




Vice
Spoiler: show
Level: 46
Gender: Male
Ability: Hyper Cutter
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Rash
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with GalactaRay

Level-Up Moves:
Guillotine
Bubble
Harden
Vice Grip
Leer
Bubble Beam
Protect
Double Hit
Knock Off
Night Slash
Razor Shell
Taunt
Night Slash
Crabhammer
Swords Dance
Crunch

Egg Moves:
Dragon Dance
Metal Claw
Superpower

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0




Caliel
Spoiler: show
Level: 37
Gender: Male
Ability: Pressure
Holding:
Nature: Quiet
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Emi

Level-Up Moves:
Perish Song
Future Sight
Me First
Razor Wind
Detect
Scratch
Feint
Leer
Quick Attack
Taunt
Pursuit
Bite
Double Team
Slash
Swords Dance
Night Slash
Detect
Psycho Cut

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 10




Id
Spoiler: show
Level: 51
Gender: Male
Ability: Contrary
Evolution: --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Quirky
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with sweetbbydoll

Level-Up Moves:
Reversal
Tackle
Peck
Constrict
Reflect
Foul Play
Swagger
Psywave
Topsy-Turvy
Hypnosis
Psybeam
Switcheroo
Payback
Light Screen
Pluck
Psycho Cut
Slash
Night Slash
Superpower

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
-

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
-

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0

Bio:
Under construction.




Krieg
Spoiler: show
Level: 43
Gender: Male
Ability: Intimidate
Evolution: ---> --->
Holding: N/A
Nature: Rash
Pokéball:
Obtained: Trade with Schala

Level-Up Moves:
Outrage
Leer
Rage
Bite
Sand Attack
Torment
Sand Tomb
Assurance
Mud-Slap
Embargo
Swagger
Crunch
Dig
Scary Face
Foul Play
Sandstorm
Earthquake

Egg Moves:
-

Move Tutor Moves:
Iron Tail

Custom/Event Moves:
-

TM Moves:
Stone Edge

HM Moves:
-

IQ: 0

Happiness: 0


Last edited by MarbleZone; 10-31-2016 at 11:47 AM.
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Old 02-28-2016, 09:20 AM   #4
MarbleZone
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Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 1,025
Levin's Chapter 1 - "Gale"

Levin strolled along the shore of Iridi Beach. His heart was heavy but burning with determination; this was the biggest decision of his life as a Trainer so far. As he crossed the sands of the Cascadian Island (an archipelago ever so dear to him, where he'd been appointed overseer for several years), he clutched a Pokeball in his hand - and, staring at it, he began to reminisce on recent events.

---

My mind is made up. There's nothing left for for me here; this land can't give me what I need anymore.

He'd been entertaining the thought for quite a while. He'd accomplished everything he realistically could in his four years of travelling Fizzy Bubbles - and what little he failed to achieve, the authorities had no means to provide. Among those limitations was the lack of an organized professional circuit; for a while, he was the only licensed referee to
actually promote battles, and when he left nobody else took his place. Levin had no doubt the Fizzy Bubbles battling scene would flourish again in due time with devoted referees to revive it, but he couldn't afford to wait any longer - he was in his prime, and there were other places where he could achieve his dream.

But there is one loose end. I can't call my current self the "best version of me" as long as he isn't subdued.

His beloved Druddigon's death weighed on his mind every single day. Rojo had died protecting Levin from the devil he himself raised, Nylus the Gyarados, and the beast was yet to be tamed. That changed today.

He immediately thought of the one Pokemon he'd come to rely on for the most impossible of tasks; his miracle worker, Ciel. Almost instinctively, he called out the Clefairy to his side, but soon after his mind shifted to someone else - someone who deserved to face Nylus more than anybody else.

- Ciel dear, I have a feeling I'll need your help soon, but please wait a little longer.

He knew the Fairy-Type wouldn't approve of the ensuing fight between teammates, but it had to be done. Even then, calling Nylus a teammate at this point was a stretch; the Gyarados was a murderous dragon consumed by rage and lust for destruction, and Levin had promised himself he would one day cleanse Nylus's tormented soul. Unfortunately, friendly banter wasn't an option, at least just yet.

With a deep breath, he reached for the Water-Type's Ball, a gesture he dreaded every single time. He hurled the device in the air, and it snapped open, allowing the behemoth to materialize in its full, terrifying splendor. Nylus roared and gazed down upon the human that had confronted him so many times in the past. Why did he insist on summoning him? Every single time, he'd brought Levin nothing but misery - and yet the persistent little creature was going at it again. He didn't want to do it... to kill anyone again... but he wouldn't be held accountable for what the fury inside him drove him to do!

- Nylus. I assume full responsibility for my negligence; I should have been infinitely more careful in raising you, but I was overconfident... I thought I was good enough to control whatever you grew into,and I was wrong. But you... you killed another Pokemon, a dear friend of mine. That I cannot forget, no matter how intense your instincts are, how overpowering they might be. I will earn your respect - your obedience - no matter what it takes! After today, you will acknowledge me as your Trainer, and Ajax will have his revenge.

Nylus's growl resembled scoffing, and his mouth shaped the faint outline of a grin. When he wasn't dominated by the flames within, he relished a challenge, and although he wouldn't openly admit it, he was impressed with the human's resolve - even if ultimately made no difference. If his Pokemon were to fight him and awaken to demon within, he'd probably end up killing his prey just like he killed the Druddigon, and Levin would have nobody to blame but himself...

In a flash of light, a golden-plated dragon materialized in front of Nylus. Ajax the Haxorus was Rojo's pupil, eventually surpassing his master, and never forgave the Gyarados for his sin. Every day he trained incessantly for the day he would be allowed retribution, and it all came to a head today.

Not one to stand idly in the face of a foe, Nylus moved first. Lunging forward at full force, jaws agape coated with freezing energy, he aimed for an Ice Fang to end the confrontation immediately. Before his instincts kicked in... before he shed blood again.

Nylus is moving by reason. That Ice Fang is deliberate, aimed at a Dragon... that's not like him. But if you think Ajax doesn't see it coming, you're sorely mistaken.

Battling was in Ajax's blood. He was the pinnacle of his kind, as fine-tuned for combat as a Pokemon could possibly be. His lineage demanded it, and his training enabled it - on par with the still-developing Kyzer, he was the closest thing to a perfect warrior Levin ever had the privilege of training. As such, Nylus's attack was guessed long before it arrived, and the Haxorus nimbly dodged the attempt, evading the Gyarados's deadly fangs with little effort.

Nylus drove his fangs into the ground below, leaving behind a small crater, while Ajax locked his blood-red eyes on the foe and saw the perfect moment to riposte. He dashed forward and carves his twin blades into the water dragon's torso, slashing twice in quick succession with a vicious Dual Chop! Nylus was quick to react, and in his frustration slammed his water-infused tailfin against the Haxorus, the Aqua Tail hitting for impressive damage!

Nylus could feel it, twisting and turning inside him, the rage he sought to suppress for his enemy's sake. But Ajax cared little for the Gyarados's attempt, and landed on his feet after the strike, immediately charging back with a second Dual Chop this time to Nylus's abdomen!

That was the last straw. Nylus reached his breaking point and caved, overwhelmed by fury and muredrous intent as he let out an earth-shaking roar and began to flail about angrily! All that mattered now was destroying the Haxorus, grinding him to dust until he was nothing more than an annoying memory! His eyes locked on the golden dragon, the Gyarados unleashed a massive pillar of water from his gaping maw in the form of a vicious Hydro Pump! The torrent washed over Ajax, propelling him back, but the dragon didn't lose his footing.

The Haxorus's eyes were locked on the berserker. The last time he saw Nylus enter such a bloo rage, Rojo died. His reluctant mentor, the only Pokemon he ever admired besides his own father Jaeger, was killed trying to protect him and Levin from the Gyarados; the image of Rojo's body breaking between Nylus's jaws haunted Ajax ever since, but now was his opportunity to claim revenge! And yet...

He's hesitating. Ajax in his prime outclasses Nylus, but he isn't going all out...

Levin's ability to determine potential was peerless. It was perhaps his single greatest quality; with a mere glance, he could determine a Pokemon's prowess effortlessly, and as such he knew Ajax ranked among his very finest battlers - but for some reason, he wasn't overwhelming Nylus. The strength of his Gyarados was undeniable, a war machine by all accounts, but the Haxorus had superior fighting instincts and that alone gave him the edge - an edge Ajax was intentionally not capitalizing on.

- You don't really want Nylus to suffer the same fate as Rojo, do you?...

Ajax heard him, and although he didn't turn to face Levin, a growl acknowledged his suspicions. He wanted to avenge Rojo by thoroughly surpassing his killer, not delivering him to the same fate. And as Nylus roared wildly, consumed by his anger, the Haxorus took the opportunity to focus his draconic energy with a sequence of dance-like movements - the Dragon Dance increasing his already impressive power and speed to new heights!

At last, Nylus shifted his attention back to his prey and lunged head-first, jws agape yet again, intent on beheading the nuisance. And that was the moment Ajax had been expecting - swift as lightning, the gold-plated warrior leaped on the serpent's head and propelled himself into the air, somersaulted and dove back down almost too fast for Levin's eyes to track. As he came crashing down on the Water-Type below, he unleashed the full brunt of his power and collided with the Gyarados's frame in a vicious Giga Impact! The sheer force of the tackle caused Nylus's body to shatter the ground below and sink into the earth, creating a massive crater... and when the dust settled, Nylus flailed about no more, too weakened to get back up.

With a triumphant roar, Ajax stood over his beaten foe, as if shouting to Rojo that he'd done it - he had avenged his master's death by surpassing the one he couldn't, and he'd repressed his own bloodthirst well enough to stop there. In one battle, Ajax had conquered two demons.

Nylus's eyes opened again, no longer clouded by rage, slowly coming to terms wit what had happened. His inner fire temporarily doused, the Gyarados glared at Ajax and then at Levin, acknowledging his defeat - it turned out the human could best him after all. But the fury was still inside him, and jsut like that, it would emerge again to lay Levin's world asunder... did the Trainer not see that inevitability?

As if reading the dragon's thoughts, Levin smiled and nodded reassuringly, before turning to Ciel, the Clefairy who remained by his side.

- I have one more favor to ask of you dear... Another miracle if you can. Nylus is hurting inside, consumed by dark feelings he doesn't want but can't repel on his own, like all Gyarados. But I believe you could help him purge that darkness... please, for his sake and ours, could you try?

He dropped to one knee and handed something wrapped in a piece of cloth to the inquisitive fairy. Moved by his words, although scared to approach the ferocious serpent, Ciel nodded after a while. She skipped over to the Gyarados, taking care to stay near Ajax just in case, and unwrapped the item her Trainer gave him - with the glow of moonlight, a magical stone was revealed, and Ciel was quick to understand its purpose. Her confidence restoed by Levin's gift, she approached Nylus, placed a tiny hand on his battered body and clutched the Moon Stone tightly with the other, reciting an undecipherable chant almost inaudibly. The dragon's body was engulfed in a brilliant aura, as was Ciel's; a powerful flash of white light ensued, forcing Levin to shield his eyes briefly. All he heard was a loud roar, followed by a peaceful sigh, and when the glow faded, Nylus slept peacefully in the center of the crater, and Ciel was no longer a small Clefairy... having reached her full potential, the doused her teammate's fire of war permanently, giving the dragon true inner peace for the first time since his evolution.

Thank you Ciel. Thank you Ajax. And thank you too, Nylus, for understanding and believing in me, even if you'd never admit it. You're free now... you can finally rest.

---

Levin clutched Nylus's Pokeball and smiled. He'd done the right thing; by facing his fear of the Gyarados, he won himself another ally, the last Pokemon whose trust had yet to be earned. With no loose ends left, he could finally leave Fizzy Bubbles behind and focus on the path ahead - the Golden Road that would lead him to Kayl, Vesper and the northern region of Heiml. He woud board a ship from the Salin City Port and go from there; the capital was only a few hours away from Iridi Beach, and he could use a leisurely stroll for a change - he'd give Qeth's wings a rest for now.

What in the world?...

Up ahead, something caught his eye - a figure by the shore, lying on the sand... a human?!

- Are you alright?!

The Saffron-native rushed over, knelt down and confirmed his suspicions. It was young man, no doubt, lying face-down. His breath was shallow but steady. Thank Arceus, he was alive... The distinct sound of waves crashing on the usually quiet seas of the Cascadia Archipelago caused him to briefly turned his head; he caught a mere glimpse of a huge white creature, winged and with blue spikes protruding from its back, vanishing into the depths of the ocean.

Could that be?...

There was no time to dwell on the vision. The boy needed help! He turned the unconscious youngster on his back; judging by his face, the boy was definitely younger than him, though not by much. He had messy silver hair, and not a single Pokeball on him. If he had any belongings, they were lost at sea. Hopefully he didn't have any Pokemon partners to begin with...

He narrowly didn't drown, but he's struggling to breathe... I need to help him.

He called out one of his Pokemon, the floating blue spirit of water materializing and bowing in reverence. Loffley the Jellicent did not require explanations, always in sync with his master's thoughts.

Consider it done, milord.

Liquefying itself, converting into pure seawater, Loffley entered the young man's body and vanished temporarily - the boy's breathing stopping for a while - before reemerging and transforming back into his usual form. The boy began to cough violently, and finally took a long, deep, clean breath!

I have done was you wished, and absorbed the excess water in his body. He will live, milord.

Indeed, Loffley was right. Slowly, the silver-haired youngster came to, and after a brief moment of looking around in complete confusion, realization seemed to set in.

- No... no!

Levin placed a hand on the boy's shoulder, drawing his attention. His eyes shifted from the Saffron-native's green eyes to the Mega Glove on his hand, and he instinctively leaped back.

- Who are you?! You're a Pokemon Trainer aren't you? That... that's a Key Stone. Tell me what you want from me! Did you cause the shipwreck?!

So, he remembers everything... he came here by boat, and it sunk. Explains a lot.

- My name is Levin Sanders. I know nothing of any shipwrecks; I found you here, on the beach. You washed ashore, or rather... something carried you. It's a miracle you're alive to begin with. Please, tell me who you are and where you were going. Maybe I can help you.

The silver-haired boy hesitated briefly, taken aback by his words.

- Levin Sanders? The Levin Sanders? That explains the Key Stone, only the greatest Trainers can wield them... Me? I...


- I'm Gale Windsor. I come from Violet City... what's left of it, anyway. Kanjohto is in ruins, and I left in search of a dream... but on the way to the Asbel region, something hit the ship from below and... and...

- Gale, were you by yourself? Did you... have anyone else with you on that ship?

Levin held his breath, waiting for the answer he didn't want to hear...

- I... was alone. I left Violet with nothing but a backpack; luckily, that was all I lost. But if you're Levin Sanders, than that means... I wound up in Fizzy Bubbles?!

Levin nodded.

- Looks like fate wanted it that way, if you're one to believe such things. Gale, you said you were chasing a dream and were headed to Asbel; but why were you headed there without a single Pokemon? You know that...

-... Asbel is the region where only Elite Trainers survive? Yes, I know. But I have no interest in battling... I'm chasing a different dream. I got my eyes on the sky.

Levin smiled at Gale's resolute mindset. He may be younger than him, but it was obvious he had it all figured out.

- Far from me to question your goals. But what is there for you in Asbel if you're not even a Trainer?

Gale took a moment before replying, staring blankly at the ocean which derailed his plans. Absent-mindedly, he replied in a faint voice.

- Legends...

Levin placed a friendly hand on Gale's shoulder. The Violet-native's pain was palpable.

- Yes. Trainers in Asbel are said to be talented to the point of taming Legendary Pokemon. But...

- I don't want to tame them. But I want to see them with my own eyes. That's my dream... to meet every mythical Flying Pokemon face-to-face. I studied under Falkner for years before I realized I didn't enjoy battling, but my passion for the sky and Flying-Type Pokemon has been with me since I've known myself. Once I completed my training I set out on my own to become a Bird Keeper like Falkner was once when he started, hoping I'd meet the Legendary Birds in my travels. But it seems Arceus has other plans for me...

- That's quite the beautiful dream Gale. I'd chase it regardless of Arceus's will. And besides, maybe He's just pointing you in a different direction - I have a feeling you'll meet the Pokemon you're after right here in Fizzy Bubbles.

Levin remembered the Pokemon he'd just spotted vanishing into the ocean - the Pokemon that probably saved Gale's life by carrying him to the shore - but chose not to. This was Gale's path to walk, and he was certain the Violet-native would someday find out the truth. As for him, he could always point the kid the right direction.

- I'm meeting someone in Salin City before I... move on to other things. I think that's a good way to start; the capital of Cascadia is a thriving metropolis, I'm sure you'll find everything you need to get started in your adventures. But it's still a ways away on foot.

- I'll take the walk. I need time to clear my head anyway. And can't you hear them? There are birds around here. I might linger for a while.

Levin smiled; in truth, he couldn't hear anything. This Gale boy did have something special to him. And that made up his mind.

- Here. I want you to have these; you won't get much of anything done around here without them, and where I'm going, I don't need them anymore. I insist.

The blonde man extended both his hands towards Gale - one holding five Pokeballs, and the other his PokeDex.

- But... Levin...

- My team is complete, and the path I'm on doesn't call for a Dex anymore. You'll need it more than me, especially when you meet those Legendary Flying-Types. You'll want to register the moment, right? Take it, and head on over to Salin when you're ready. And Gale... never lose sight of that dream of yours. It really is a beautiful thing.

Levin reached for a Pokeball in his belt and called out his imposing Flygon, Qeth. He'd decided to walk the remaining distance, but this unexpected encounter had sidetracked him, and his contact in Salin City was probably waiting already.

- Best of lucks to you. You're right - despite where my choices have taken me, battling doesn't have to be everything there is to Pokemon. I sincerely hope you cling to that passion of yours and never lose it. You'll see wonderful things in Fizzy Bubbles, including the creatures you seek, as long as you chase that dream. See you around Gale.

Qeth took flight, effortlessly carrying Levin on his back. Gale watched on as the Ace Trainer vanished into the horizon - one day that would be him, riding on a flying Pokemon's back, crossing the skies. And one day he'd meet Levin again, and tell him personally that he made it - he met the Legendary Flying Pokemon.

- When that day comes, you'll be Champion. You'll have reached your dream as well. Thank you Levin, for saving my life and being my guide, however short our meeting was... I'll always look up to you, and I'll see you again someday!

As Qeth and Levin soared, the blonde man's attention turned to the forest below them, which ended where Iridi Beach started. And as his eyes caught the glimpse of a tiny golden spark flashing beneath the trees, he smiled and was reassured - Gale had someone watching him, a protector in the shadows moved by the youngster's purity and determination. In time, that guardian would reveal itself.

For now, please keep him safe. He has a wonderful dream to fulfill and will need your help.

---

Gale Windsor forced his mind to stop racing and adjust to fact that, like it or not, he wasn't going to Asbel. Arceus had placed him here, and had led Levin to him, for a reason. He was in Fizzy Bubbles territory to stay. Salin City was where he should go; Levin's Flygon flew north, so he reasoned that's where he should head as well. And welcome whatever came his way with open arms, because after all, that was what adventuring was really about!

I could have died. The fact that I'm alive is a miracle by itself, so I owe it to Arceus to make the most of this second chance. This is the first time I've left Violet City; it feels overwhelming, an entire new region to explore... and I'm no Trainer. I'm excited, but I can't help feeling nervous as well... will I be alright?

His feet felt heavier than ever. Simply dragging them across the sandy floor of Iridi Beach felt draining; come to think of it, he couldn't tell how long he'd been lost at sea, and subsequently, the last time he had something to eat. He did feel exhausted and light-headed...

But I'm alive! That's more than I could've hoped for. I'll keep going until I reach Salin City, I can do it!

If he faltered, he'd be letting both Falkner and Levin down. Compared to what he'd been through, what was a mere walk on the beach, even in his state?

- Skit! Surskit!!

The unfamiliar voice came from up ahead. Squinting in the sunlight, Gale saw a tiny blue creature running in his direction... followed by a hungry-looking bird!

That one I do recognize. It's a Starly!

He wasn't particularly knowledgeable when it came to Pokemon in general, but he knew everything that there was to know about birds. Even though Starly weren't native to his home region of Johto, he'd studied the Type and its species extensively. The blue insect, however, was anything but thrilled to know the bird any better.

Surskit leapt straight at the unsuspecting Gale and landed on his arms, shivering and looking terrified at the incoming predator. The silver-haired youngster knew he was the strange Pokemon's only hope, and as much as it pained him, he yelled and scared the Starly away. The bird flew upwards and threw Gale a glare of challenge, but retreated back into the skies, vanishing from sight.

- Hey little guy... that was quite the scare, heh? It's alright now. So, let's see what you are.

Taking Levin's - no, his - PokeDex out for the first time, he pointed it at the still-shaking insect. It felt strangely intuitive.

"Surskit, the Pod Skater Pokemon. From the tips of its feet, Surskit secretes an oil that enables it to walk on water as if it were skating. This Pokémon feeds on microscopic organisms in ponds and lakes."

- Surskit... Well, this isn't exactly the habitat I'd expect to find a Pokemon like you. How'd you end up here?

The Bug-Type turned north, looking apprehensive. Wherever he came from, he was in no hurry to go back...

- Did... you come from Salin City? I happen to be headed there myself. Guess we're going on opposite directions... Take care of yourself Surskit. Remember, eyes on the sky!

With a smile and a wink, Gale placed Surskit on the ground and resumed his journey towards the capital. The Bug-Type stood there watching as the human who saved his life left him behind to go to the one place he never wanted to see again. And then he'd be all alone again, with nobody to give him his wings... "Eyes on the sky"? He had his eyes on the sky ever since he was born! If he was stronger could've taken the fight to that Starly, a glorious aerial battle... No. He couldn't let this happen!

Gale kept walking, toying with his new Dex and gazing up at the clear blue sky every once in a while, in case that Starly returned. What kind of Bird Keeper shoos a bird away? But it had to be done... Just then, he felt his right leg become even heavier than it already felt. The sudden extra weight caused him to stop and look down, confused. Clinging on to his leg for dear life was the Surskit he'd just met!

- Wh-what are you doing? I thought you didn't want to go back...

Surskit nodded. He didn't... why else would he go through all that trouble of escaping from the Adoption Centre? But this Trainer was his best shot. This one saved his life - maybe, just maybe, he could also give him wings! Gale couldn't understand anything the Surskit tried to tell him, but he got the gist of it - much to his amazement, it seemed the small Bug wanted to tag along!

- Hey, are you sure about this? We just met... and listen, I... I'm not much of a Trainer. Actually, I'm aiming to be a Bird Keeper. I'm not sure you'd like the company I plan on having around...

A Bird Keeper?! That meant... he was after Flying-Types! If this human was aiming to raise a team of flyers, this was perfect! And besides, he wouldn't let his birds harm him, right? He protected him from that Starly earlier - what was there to fear? Encouraged by Gale's revelation, the Surskit tightened his grip on the young man's leg. Astonished by Surskit's resolve, Gale picked him up and smiled.

- Well, if you're absolutely sure... I could use a partner to get started, even if you're not exactly a bird. But I get the feeling we'll get along fine, you know? Let's see if I do this right then... are you ready to be Gale Windsor's first Pokemon?

- Surskit!!

Gale took out one of the Pokeballs Levin had given him from his pocket. He struggled with the device at first, but soon figured the (admittedly simple) mechanism. The ball enlarged to its standard size and, after a reassuring nod from Surskit, the Violet-native tossed it at the Bug-Type like he figured he should be doing. Sure enough, the contraption snapped open and absorbed the target in a red flash of light. It closed once again, and shook three times before locking up, definitively housing Surskit inside and formally making it Gale's partner!

He hurriedly pressed the button to open the Ball back up, and the Pokemon materialized on the sand once more, looking delighted. Gale chuckled as Surskit jumped at him for a second time, this time scuttling up his torso, neck and finally resting on top of his head. The Bird Keeper could hardly believe it - he actually had a Pokemon of his own! It might not be a Flying-Type like he'd expected, but it didn't have to be - all that really mattered was that they needed one another, and Arceus brought them together. And considering everything he'd been through up until this point, he knew better than to question His motives by now.

Let's get going then. Wherever the road takes us, and always with...



... Eyes on the sky!

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Old 02-28-2016, 09:23 AM   #5
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Levin's Chapter 2 - "Luther"

Levin Sanders, Saffron City-native Ace Trainer and traveler of Fizzy Bubbles for the past 4 years, was about to embark on the final journey of his career - the culmination of his efforts towards greatness. He'd long surpassed his brother Ivan, and was now on his way to challenge the Elite Four of the northern region of Heiml, the birthplace of his mother. Along the way he'd met several other Trainers who'd matched him, or far surpassed him, in terms of strength at some point. Two in particular he was yet to defeat, but in due time, both Kayl Kessler and Vesper Gant would be vanquished as well. His ultimate target was the undefeated Champion of the North, Gottfried...

But in order to reach him and his Elite, I need help first.

This missing piece of the puzzle was what brought him to Salin City, and the Cable Club in particular. His arrival at Cascadia's capital was uneventful, but mostly thanks to the Silk Scarf he kept wrapped around his neck, partially obscuring his features. It was a necessary precaution - he'd been the archipelago's overseer for the past three years, monitoring and guiding several adventurers across its several Islands; a job he loved, but could no longer keep if he was to reach Heiml. In order for his plan to go smoothly, he needed to pass by unnoticed here - a hard feat in the bustling metropolis that was Salin City, but one he managed nonetheless.

He walked into the Cable Club to meet his contact, who was no doubt already waiting. His unexpected meeting with Gale Windsor had delayed him, and despite Qeth's aerial transportation he was still behind schedule. And a man such as this wasn't someone Levin wished to upset.

Especially since my future plans rely heavily on his cooperation...

The store was practically empty. Standing next to the counter and a clearly uncomfortable clerk, there was the person Levin wanted to see. Taller than him, probably in his late thirties, with an absent-minded expression and characteristic half-black, half-white hair, sporting a black cape and dark-red outfit, was a man renowned throughout Fizzy Bubbles as a dangerous and extremely influential figure...


- Luther C. Helford.

The man turned to face Levin, his lips forming a faint smile as he did. He walked slowly, as he always did, and reached out for a handshake.

- Levin Sanders. Glad you could make it.

- Sorry I'm late. I ran into some unexpected trouble on the road.

- Nothing a Trainer of your caliber couldn't handle, I'm certain. - His voice was calm, particularly deep and eerily soothing - Apologies are hardly necessary. I had business to attend to all the same.

His presence alone is unsettling. He exudes the confidence of a man who could bend anyone to do his will thorugh words alone...

- Thank you. Since we're already running late, I'll skip straight to the point: do you have what I asked for?

- Certainly. It was... an intriguing deal you sought out to make. One I am most interested in honoring.

Levin had been mentally preparing for this day for weeks now. The bargain he was about to strike with Luther was the only way to realize his dream - even if this was the price to pay. Besides, it was also in their best interest.

- I'm not doing this just for myself. This is also for them... to ensure their happiness. Promise me they will find it under your guidance.

Luther C. Helford's smile widened ever-so-slightly. Levin couldn't tell if the man was amused at his concern or excited for the deal about to be closed.

- Levin Sanders, you are a child of light - you were told as much by the Old Sun Himself. The Volcarona chose you, and has bathed you in His light from the day of your birth. I walk a different path - the polar opposite, you could say. Taming the darkness of Pokemon's heart, their hidden needs, struggling desires... that is, modesty aside, what I excel at. It is for that reason that you reached out to me, was it not?

It was partly true. Luther's affinity for the Dark was globally recognized, many going as far as to call him the greatest Dark-Type Master in existence. His wealth and sphere of influence in the Pokemon World were also of much use to Levin in his current situation. All things considered, Helford was the only one worth seeking out.

- Their happiness and my success are the only things that matter to me. If I can have both, I see no reason not to make an offer - even to someone of your... reputation.

Luther grinned at Levin's choice of words.

- I have plenty of those things you call "reputation", one for each branch of business I deal in. All in all, I seem to come off as something of an unsavory character for some reason. Perhaps it's the cape.

Levin couldn't help but smile at Luther's light-heartedness. The man was responsible for driving several companies out of business, especially Pokeball manufacturers, and had been accused of countless acts of property damage, bribery and many other charges. For one reason or another (and Levin could think of plenty), not a single crime had been conclusively linked to Luther thus far.

Helford reached within his cloak and retrieved a sealed envelope, which he proceeded to hand Levin.

- I trust everything is in order.

Levin opened the letter and read its contents, quickly skipping to the last paragraph - the one that mattered.

"In light of the reasons and evidence provided and described above, we hereby grant Levin Sanders, born in Saffron City, region of Kanto, and currently residing in Cloud Garden, region of Fizzy Bubbles, where he maintains the majority of his Training acitivity, special permission to enroll in the Heiml League in the quality of guest competitor, in the Ace Trainer category. You are therefore exempt from undergoing the Gym Challenge, and should instead report directly to the entrance of Victory Road (Altheim Gate) with this document."

- This... is the real thing! Mr. Helford...

- Luther will suffice.

- You actually got the permit... This is perfect!

Heiml was an ancient region, proud of its battling traditions; the land's ancestors were warriors of the North who took the world by storm in the dawn of civilization, and the love for combat endured to this day. For that reason, Trainers from other lands, with training activity registered to other regions, were not allowed to register for the Gym Challenge without a sufficiently impressive resumé. In Levin's case, despite his extensive practice in monitoring both adventures and battles, due to the lack of an official battle circuit in Fizzy Bubbles, his curriculum was hardly enough to qualify for Heiml's Gym Challenge.

But Luther not only managed to get me in, he found a way to land me straight on the Victory Road...

The man's influence was even greater than he'd anticipated. His network of connections, a shadowy web he weaved over the years thanks to his wealth and , in particular, his power, allowed him to get anywhere and do anything untouched. A very dangerous enemy to have, but an invaluable ally to anyone who could afford it.

- I believe I've kept my end of the bargain. As for yours...

This was it. Luther's payoff. Levin had given this a lot of thought, and even though he was absolutely certain this was in the best interest of his Pokemon, he still hesitated to make his move. Parting with them, these two in particular, was like forfeiting a part of himself. But neither of them was fit for Levin - a "child of light" indeed, drawn to the radiance of glory and admittedly ill-prepared to handle the intricacies of a Dark-Type's overpowering instincts. Luther, on the other hand, had dealt with these creatures his entire life - he could easily understand them and provide them what they needed, unlike the Saffron-native.

With one final sigh, Levin reached for his belt and took two Pokeballs, which he proceeded to place in Luther's hand - a Vampire Ball and a Red Cyberball.

- They are amongst my most prized Pokemon. Even with all your power and wealth, if you mistreat either of them, I swear to Arceus I will hunt you down and make you pay,

He wanted Luther to make no mistake about it: as grateful as Levin was for the invaluable permit, he was being completely honest when he said the happiness of his Pokemon was his highest priority. And giving these two away, even if it was to the one man in the world who could raise them better than himself, hurt more than he could put into words. Luther, in turn, nodded reassuringly without a hint of hesitation.

- I will treasure them as I treasure each creature under my care. You will see them flourish and achieve their deepest, darkest desires under my guidance. I will even keep the names you gave them as a memento. And perhaps one day we could have a sparring match of our own - your six wings of light against my six wings of darkness.

Luther gazed longingly at his new acquisitions, twirling the two Pokeballs in his fingers in silence for a while. What was the mysterious man thinking? Levin had made peace with both Vlad and Ruin before he left Marble Garden, and neither was opposed to this idea; from what little he could understand of their fleeting reasoning, both seemed excited at the prospect of being raised by such a man, but it still stung seeing Luther toying with the Pokeballs that belonged to him up until seconds ago.

No matter. I got what I needed, and they found the one Trainer who could do a better job raising them than myself. I lost good friends before, and kept going... This will be no different, even if Vlad and Ruin were two formidable allies in my quest for the Championship. But were they ever really, truly... my friends? We never clicked, because it's not in my nature to understand the Dark-Type. It wasn't their fault that our bonds were weak... This is for the best.

- Our business here is done. Mr. Helfor - I mean, Luther, thank you once again for agreeing to do this. And please...

- They are in the most capable hands possible, I assure you. We will accomplish great things together, and you will no doubt hear about them when the time comes.

The way Luther smiled as he said it was unsettling, but Levin didn't doubt the man's honesty even if he knew - or cared - nothing about his plans. The blonde Trainer watched as the older man bowed and slowly walked out of the Cable Club, Vlad and Ruin's Pokeballs vanishing into the depths of his cape. Luther was right - he had no doubt news of their "feats" would reach his ears sooner or later, whether he liked it or not. But he couldn't afford to dwell on this any longer, all he could do was accept that, despite their formidable power, it wasn't his to wield any longer, nor could he ever tap into it like Luther no doubt would.

I have what I came for. Now to get back on track and fulfill my destiny once and for all!

This was the last obstacle to be overcome, and now that he had everything he needed, the one thing left to do was head to Salin City's port and board the next ship to Heiml... saying goodbye to the Fizzy Bubbles region one final time for the foreseeable future.

The next time I stand on Fizzy Bubbles soil, I will be Champion... a Pokemon Master.

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Old 03-06-2016, 12:13 PM   #6
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Luther's Chapter 1 - "Enter the Rift"

As soon as he left the Egg House, having added Raze to his family, Luther Helford turned to the Pokemon Center. Much as he disliked crowds, particularly the sort of people who tended to flock towards and linger around that facility, there was no denying the usefulness of the Center. A hub for every Pokemon-related commodity, there was certainly merit to its creation - unfortunately, it mostly crowded by infants who enjoyed micro-managing every aspect of their near-infinite collection of Weedle, Caterpie and Shuckle through the PC service. Luckily Salin's Pokemon Center, being the largest of the Archipelago, had plenty of room for him to find a quieter spot.

If there was any benefit to a crowd of ignorants, it was that they failed to recognize him. He got the usual stares due to the cape, certainly, but almost nobody fled in terror - children knew nothing about him to warrant fear. After a while of searching, he found a vacant PC near the corner of the room and settled down. 53 unread e-mails... He'd get to them later. First, he had to sort out his team - he missed the company of his oldest friend, and something told him there would be havoc to wreak very soon.

Impending chaos... I can sense it. Wonderful.

The small pod next to the desktop lit up, and an old, dented and worn-out black-and-red Pokeball materialized inside, a limited edition collector's Ball that Luther had received as a child, all those years back. Luther smiled as he retrieved it; for all the incredibly powerful allies he'd accrued over the years, none held a more special place in his heart than this one, the creature who'd been by his side since childhood.

"Heartless" is one of the things they call me most often. They have no idea how much heart I truly have - nor how misplaced their own affections are. Worthless humans...

As far as humanity's perception went, yes, Luther C. Helford was heartless, ruthless, cruel. As far as the law went, he was a criminal who could not be charged. But Luther saw the world from a different angle than most... He was born into a wealthy family, raised to be a competent businessman from an early age, and he excelled. He learned the benefits and the allure of power, embracing them wholeheartedly, but never allowing himself to be blind to his own limitations - much to his chagrin, he knew he lacked any actual strength outside of his intellect. He was more aware than most that mankind was, essentially, a weak species with a powerful mind - and when he saw Pokemon for the first time, he was instantly marvelled.

Creatures of such unfathomable power, some even terraforming strength, capable of rational thought, sometimes superhuman intelligence! They are the ultimate creations of whatever Gods exist, not us. These "Pokemon" could easily overthrone Man were they not so easily submitted by our technology...

He was immediately drawn to the nature of Dark-Types, creatures with desires and needs so intense they would do anything to satisfy them - that mindset was strikingly similar to his own, but they had a power he could never hope to have. He recognized them as the superior species, and his outlook on life changed drastically - his money and his intelligence made him "powerful" as far as human society went, and his natural affinity for darkness gave him unparalleled control over Dark-Type Pokemon; he would dedicate his life to empowering the Pokemon he admired so profoundly, using his influence to facilitate their rise to power. If he had a say in the matter, this world would witness the full potential of the creatures truly meant to rule - with him by their side as they claimed their throne.

I am their conduit, the facilitator of their anarchist urges. There is nothing more glorious than the sight of a Dark-Type Pokemon revelling in its desires unopposed, ravaging the feeble Humanity who hold themselves in such high regard. Because that is true power, the one I seek and live to see exerted!

Just as he finished rearranging his team (or rather his "family", as he called them), a sudden loud noise filled the room.

Gunfire.

Shots fired in the Pokemon Center, followed by screaming and the sound of feet hitting the floor frantically. The chaos he'd expected. Luther smiled, rose to his feet and slowly turned around to face the commotion. It was hard to distinguish anybody in particular, but the first thing he noticed was the lack of bodies on the floor. The rounds weren't fired into anyone then...

Warning shots. Which means someone in here wants to be seen.

He'd wait it out. Eventually he'd spot the only person - or people - not running around in hysteria other than himself, and those should be the ones to watch out for.
And sure enough, there they were. Three men clad completely in white - pristine white shirt, trousers and shoes - stood motionless by the entrance of Center, the tallest of the group holding a pistol in his hand. On closer inspection, all three of them carried a sidearm in a white holster.

Luther's earlier smile faded. He'd seen these characters before, though never in person. They represented everything he despised about mankind. He wasn't aware they'd spread as far as Cascadia, but it was only a matter of time.
One of them men stepped forward and proclaimed in a loud, resounding voice.

- Ladies and gentlemen! May I have your attention please? We are the Rift.

The three men had the only exit blocked, but nobody made an attempt at fleeing when they heard the man's announcement. Luther could understand why - bargaining with the Rift was always straightforward.

- I can see by your collective silence that you know us! Flattering, and it makes things much easier. Still, allow us a moment to remind you all why we're here!

Luther's hand reached to the Pokeball he'd just retrieved from the PC. He'd let them have their speech, which was more than men like them deserved, and then he'd make a statement of his own.

- The Rift is a non-profitable organization created by men and women who believe in the power of Mankind. We believe humans are destined to perform even greater feats, surpass any and all frontiers on the road to enlightenment, further establishing ourselves as the dominant species in the entire Universe!

The man's speech grew more passioante as he went.

- As such, we cannot allow ourselves to be bound by the chains of dependence, trapped in a web of need and powerlessness that we weaved ourselves! You know what I'm talking about: we have grown addicted to the aid of Pokemon! As if our forefathers, who built city after city with the sweat of their brow, ever needed the help of such creatures. Think! Ever since we have perfect the art of taming these beasts, we're come to rely on them for everything, no matter how insignificant the task. Pokemon are holding Humanity back, and the Rift seeks to correct that, before mankind becomes hopelessly useless! When you least expect it, Pokemon will turn on us and assume control of this world - unless we remain vigilant and establish ourselves, at all times, as the dominant species!

He pointed to his colleague wielding the pistol.

- One well-placed bullet from my associate's weapon is enough to fell most Pokemon, no matter how much fire it breathes or how many thunderbolts it can hurl. There are several other, more powerful man-made instruments that can topple any living thing on this earth. They are our own making, tools at our disposal like Pokemon should be! We own them for our purposes, but never allow them to replace us in the natural order! Give a Pokemon too much power, too much freedom, and it rebels. It becomes your owner. We are here to free you from your vice...

He drew his weapon as well and smiled.

- We are here to free you from your Pokemon.

In perfect synchrony, the three men in white opened fire on the computers scattered across the Center, destroying each of them with pinpoint precision, before turning their sights to Nurse Joy behind the counter.

- Please help us nurse. We only want to cure you all from your affliction - isn't that what nursing is all about?

The Rift... Thieves and murderers of Pokemon in the name of Man. Humans who believed themselves above all other species and commmanded their monster slaves as casually as they wielded their guns. They stood for the exact opposite of Luther. And as little as the Dark-Type Master cared about his fellow men and women held hostage inside the Pokemon Center, he would absolutely not allow the Rift to walk out with these people's Pokemon.

- May I have your attention please? I'd like to make a proposition, if you'd be keen to lending an ear.

The expression on all three men's faces went from triumphant to incredulous as they turned to meet the voice.

- L-Luther Helford?!

- In the flesh. And I happen to take exception to being held hostage; I'd like to propose a deal of my own. - he said, holding up his black-and-red Pokeball.

The Rift trio immediately pointed the barrels of their guns at the caped man, but Luther merely continued.

- Yes, somewhat like that, only I get to defend myself. I propose the three of you take on a friend of my choosing. Should you fell him, you may do whatever you wish with the people here and their Pokemon. Should we win...

- You're not in the position to make demands Helford! We don't care how influent you are all with your enterprises, locked all the way up in your tower. In here, you're as powerless as all these narrow-minded sheep, and we will liberate you as well!

Luther's smile reappeared, an unsettling grin accompanied by the hurling of his Pokeball. It snapped open to reveal the creature within - materializing from the silver miasma, a gigantic emerged in front of Luther just as the Rift opened fire!

- Yakuma, I require your assistance yet again...

Luther's tone was soft, friendly and completely honest. Yakuma had been with the black-and-white haired man for the longest time, and out of all his brothers and sisters, had the tightest bond with the human. The bear merely nodded as he spread his arms, bullets flying into him and bouncing off his muscled body harmlessly.

I'm sorry for putting you in harm's way once more, dear friend. But these filthy humans need to see for themselves... the power of our darkness!

Yakuma, usually silent and stoic until challenged, quickly went into his usual blood rage when engaged. He dashed forward, much faster than a creature of his size would be expected to move, and drove a huge fist into the gut of one of the men, causing him to drop to the floor unconscious, dropping his firearm.

- It.. it's a monster! Quick, put that thing down!!

The two remaining Rift grunts emptied their clips on the giant bear, who shrugged off the offense with little more than an annoyed growl. Now it was his time to riposte.

- You called me powerless, and right you are. I am as powerless as any man, even pro-humanity activists such as yourselves. Your guns cannot stop the true rulers of this world! If your eyes will not open to reason, allow Yakuma to force them open instead!

The Pangoro lunged at his second victim and slammed him into a wall, then unleashed a flurry of Comet Punches with his Iron-like Fists that drove the helpless man's body deeper and deeper into the concrete. When Yakuma was done, the man wasn't moving.

Only one Rift member remained, who fired his empty clip over and over in a panic. Yakuma walked up to him and delivered a single Karate Chop to the neck, with a terrifying snapping sound followed by the grunt dropping to the floor.

Afterwards there was complete silence, as the former hostages looked at the scene and then to one another with a mix of horror and disbelief. What the Pangoro had just done to those three men was unspeakable, but on the other hand, it'd saved their lives...

- I suggest you all leave the premises, if I may.

There was no way of knowing whether more Rift members were making a move or if this was an isolated cell. As little as Luther cared for these people, it irritated him to see such apathy in them that they didn't even think of running to safety.

The caped man walked up to his Pangoro, who gazed expressionless at the massacre he'd committed.

- It's been a while since you went this far. Have I deprived you of violence for so long?

It was a genuine concern. Yakuma was a Pokemon with two halves - aloof and quiet most of the time, but with a raging demon inside who emerged whenever there was conflict. He was proud enough to never ask Luther for a chance to relieve his tension, and at the same time ashamed he had so little control over his inner darkness. Indeed, it had been a while since his impulses had been this strong...

The Pangoro simply shook his head, reached for one of the fallen Rift grunts and closed his eyelids with his massive hand. Respect one of the things Yakuma treasured the most.

Luther smiled and recalled the bear inside his Rocket Ball, then walked out of the Pokemon Center under the conflicted gazes of the dumbfounded people he'd just saved. None could bring themselves to thank a man like Luther C. Helford, but at the same time they knew the significance of what he'd just done for them.

Stepping outside into the afternoon sun, Luther heard the sounds of sirens coming and going. Obviously, there was trouble in several places around Salin City simultaneously - his assumption had been right, the Rift was invading. Soon ambulances and the police should be arriving at the Center as well, and he'd much prefer not to be seen at that time. He'd already done more for the people of Salin that he would've willingly gotten himself involved in, so it was time to take his leave.

- Come to me, Ruin.

Tossing his newly-obtained Cyber Ball into the air, he summoned the Hydreigon previously owned by Levin Sanders. The dragon roared and glared at the man she didn't know, but something about his presence told her he wasn't a target. No, there was something else about him that even her destruction-filled mind could sense... The black beast approached Luther, who placed a hand on her forehead, and his touch alone filled her with a sense of belonging she'd never felt before. Soothed by the man she immediately recognized as her true master, Ruin lowered her head and allowed Luther to climb on her back. She could tell this human would allow her to grow stronger than ever before; giving him wings was a simple retribution.

- Thank you for accepting me. You will achieve everything you dream of under my care, I promise you.

Luther held on to Ruin's neck and the winged destroyer took flight. He'd been away from home for too long; he had to prepare against the rising of the Rift.

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Old 03-19-2016, 02:51 PM   #7
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Levin's Chapter 3 - "Seer"

The port was a ways away from the center of Salin City. Levin Sanders exited the Cable Club with a heavy heart, having just parted ways with Ruin and Vlad, but in possession of an extremely valuable letter that basically ensured the continuation of his journey.

The Heiml League is finally within my reach...

He had a lot of conflicting thoughts at the moment. Walking it off struck him as the best solution, a stroll across the seaside part of the coastal metropolis. Salin really did have it all, including a vast beach that connected the bustling city to its port. Besides, walking along the shore reminded him of that Gale kid he met, someone he sincerely hoped was making progress on his own journey - the Violet-native deserved it.

He purposefully avoided the more crowded section of the sprawling beach; he was still a celebrity in the capital of Cascadia, even if this part of the city was mainly occupied by tourists. After a while he found himself in the company of little more than seagulls and seashells, only the occasional couple seeking privacy passing him by, or a couple of fishermen looking to score a bigger catch away from the populated waters. It was times like these that levin was reminded of why he loved Marble Garden so much - he really did care very little for noise and crowds.

But I left the Garden behind for a reason... there's no going back now, and no point in dwelling on it any longer. I'll find a new home in Heiml.

He kept moving, lost in thought, until Hazo's voice ringing in his head interrumped his reverie.

Master. Look ahead.

Levin stopped his tracks and followed the Lucario's advice. Sure enough, something stood in his way - a large purple star with a gemstone in the center, glowing in seven colors...

- A Starmie?...

This time, it was a differente voice who spoke in the recesses of his mind. A voice he rarely ever got to hear - Eld's.

That is one of the primordial lifeforms of this region. A creature as old as the land itself. It took an interest in you.

If this Starmie caught the almighty Eld's attention, Levin could not ignore it. Starmie were already mysterious Pokemon in of themselves - but it seemed this particular specimen had the interest of his strongest partners.

- Who are you?...

Unbeknownst to Levin, the Starmie had already been in possession of several other Trainers, and dated back to the days where Fizzy Bubbles wasn't even known as such. It was older than Ryker, perhaps almost as old as Wicca (whose presence Levin could no longer feel inside Katsune's Ring, for some reason)...

- It seems you won't budge. Tell me.why have you chosen me? What do I have that interests you so much?

The Starmie didn't respond, but Eld did.

Your light.

Levin smiled. This Pokemon had willingly sought him out, of all Trainers in Fizzy Bubbles...

- A couple of hours more and you would have missed me. Well, I won't make your journey go to waste... but if you want to tag along, you'll havr to earn it!

This was his chance to test out the results of his training, especially that of his youngest partners. One in particular would relish the challenge...

- Let's go... Kyzer!

From the confines of his Fire Ball, his precious Charmander emerged. This was the kind of match-up that could push such a phenomenal fighter to the limit - a fight where he was so terribly outmatched, only his absolute best performance could secure victory. And the son of Syre lived for this kind of odds.

- Come on Kyzer, show Starmie what we can do! Go for a Slash!

The Charmander nodded while staring at the strange Pokemon ahead of him. He'd never seen one of its kind, but his battle instincts told him he was fighting an opponent much stronger than he'd ever faced. He jolted forward, his right claws glowing and extending like swords... but was stopped cold a mere second later!

Psychic...

In his last four years, he'd seen the technique used on his Pokemon several times; he'd come to loathe the move as a result of being unable to defend against it, most of Fighting-Type Pokemon being particularly susceptible to it. Overtime he'd come to own Pokemon who were entirely immune to psychic assaults, but they were contrary to his very nature, and both Ruin and Vlad had to be traded away. And Kyzer also had no means to avoid this kind of attack...

The Charmander struggled in the invisble grasp, and suddenly felt himself being yanked forcefully toward Starmie! The star-shaped Pokemon lunged forward to meet Kyzer mid-way, as it began to rotate at high speed; it crashed straight into the Fire-Type's gut with its Rapid Spin, made stronger by the momentum of its Psychic pull!

Kyzer tumbled back and rolled across the sand until he came to a stop. The lizard winced in pain but managed to fight back to his feet, with a fire in his eyes that wasn't there before. He arched his head back and unleashed a wave of violet energy that struck Starmie with impressive force, a Dragon Rage that would have made Syre proud!

Starmie, however, proved resilient. It floated back up, gem glimmering, and retaliated with a shower of golden stars that scattered across the air and began to home in on Kyzer! The Charmander tried to dodge but to no avail, overwhelmed by the sheer number of Swift projectiles, and was tossed to the floor one more time...

... and one more time he rose back to his feet! Kyzer's dragon blood was boiling with the need to surpass this opponent. It was a feeling like he'd never experienced before - nothing like the rush he felt while sparring with his teammates, this was leagues beyond that! He felt something stir within him, power he didn't know he had, but he knew were inherited both from his father Syre and his mother Vesta...

Starmie, sensing Kyzer's power growing by the minute, decided to test the resolve and endurance of the lizard to the limit: taking aim, it unleashed a massive pillar of pressurized water, the Hydro Pump washing over Kyzer and pushing him back several feet... but this time, the Charmander wouldn't fall over!

Kyzer

Levin stared in awe as his precious Fire-Type muscled forward, pushing the Hydro Pump back, powering ahead against the relentless water stream. As he kept going, a powerful glow enveloped him, shining even beneath the torrent, and Kyzer's frame grew taller with each determined step! He insisted, one foot at a time, and by the time he was mere inches away from Starmie the glow had already faded, leaving behind no longer a tiny Charmander but a fierce-looking who withstood the currents without faltering!

- You... you did it! Kyzer, look at you!

Body and spirit renewed, the Charmeleon roared and delivered a powerful Slash across Starmie's gem, hitting it hard enough to interrupt the Hydro Pump and cause the Water-Type to flinch for the first time since the fight began!

But Kyzer's taken a lot of damage already... he's gasping for air.

Indeed, the Fire-Type's vision was turning hazy, and he could feel himself going lightheaded, but he'd persevere! He could fill his fire burning hotter than ever, even after Starmie tried to douse it! It was then that his tail flame suddenly erupted, glowing the brightest Levin had ever seen it.

Blaze!

His special ability activated, Kyzer glared at Starmie raring to go, despite his exhaustion. At this point nothing else in the world mattered - only Starmie existed, a target to be put down. The Charmeleon belched a huge pillar of fire, a mighty Flamethrower that engulfed the Water-Type, burning away fragments of its body despite Starmie's natural resistance to flame! When he finished, the starfish was a charred mess, wobbling in place and covered in burns...

But to Kyzer's surprise, in a matter of seconds, Starmie's skin was completely Recovered as if nothing happened! The Charmeleon had never seen such incredible regenerative properties in another Pokemon, and only had time to growl in worn-out annoyance before being struck hard with another Hydro Pump, just as vicious as the first one! But this time, try as he may, his strength finally failed him, and Kyzer dropped to the ground unconscious...

- That was an incredible effort... You did even better than I'd hoped! Return Kyzer, you deserve a good rest.

Levin smiled as he recalled the newly-evolved Charmeleon into his Fire Ball. And now, it was time to capture this Starmie!

I might not have Vlad or Ruin any longer... But my team can steal handle any threat of any Type!

- This is the Pokemon to defeat you. Let's go... Almace!

As the Pokeball clicked open, Levin thought back to the day he'd received Almace from the absolute best Ghost-Type master in the land, Stacey. He remembered the day Almace defeated Sai after becoming Doublade. And finally, he recalled his last day at Marble Garden when, filled with resolve to leave for Heiml, he at last brought himself to using Jake Eclair's Eerie Stone to grant Almace his ultimate form.

Your species is said to recognize those destined to become kings. That makes your loyalty all the more meaningful... Your sword and shield will carry me to victory!

Glistening in the afternoon sun, Almace's golden body was no much different from his old ones. Thanks to the powers of the mysterious stone, he'd become a fully-grown , a perfect combination of unstoppable offense and insurmountable defense. A Pokemon worthy of a king indeed.

Levin had refrained from issuing commands to Kyzer, letting the Charmeleon use his instincts in order to learn. He couldn't afford to make mistakes raising a warrior of such incredible potential; but Almace was already at his peak, no longer in danger of adopting bad habits, and Levin needed to test his own strategies for the League ahead.

- Almace, Metal Sound, then Autotomize!

The Aegislash ran the edge of his shield across his blade, unleashing an ear-piercing soundwave that caused Starmie obvious discomfort; at the same time, his body became sharper, losing all bluntness and making him considerably faster! Meanwhile, the opponent regained composure and its gem began to glow again, preparing to lock Almace in another Psychic grip.

- Saw it coming. Almace, Shadow Sneak!

The Aegislash suddenly vanished, then materialized from Starmie's own shade and struck with it from behind, knocking it to the ground with the super-effective move!

I could finish it off here... but I haven't seen everything Starmie can do. There's something else, something special about it. I have to see it first!

Levin was right. He watched as the Water-Type once again Recovered effortlessly, floated back up and made its gem glow again, this time bright red...

Here it comes.

Inexplicably, a shower of burning hot bubbles shot out of Starmie's gem, a wave so wide Almace couldn't dodge. Firestream? How?!

- Now I saw what I needed! Almace, King's Shield! Then put it away with Shock Wave!!

In the blink of an eye, Almace shifted to Shield Forme and the fire bubbles exploded harmlessly against his buckle. Then, just as quickly, he reverted to Blade Forme and unleashed a powerful bolt of lightning that homed in on the opponent and send it to the ground yet again. Only this time, Starmie couldn't focus the energy to Recover and fell unconscious.

Immediately, Levin reached for a Psychic Ball from his Bag and tossed it at the fallen Starmie. The device trapped the Pokemon inside, shook thrice and clicked shut. Starmie was his.

Now to find out what secrets you hold, why you came all the way just to meet me, why you can use Firestream... Let's find out who you really are, Seer.

Levin thanked Almace, recalled the Aegislash and resumed his short walk towards the port, lost in thought all the while. This powerful, ancient creature be a pivotal part of his success in the Heiml League... Was the Saffron-native's "light", in Eld's words, really that strong that it lured this kind of Pokemon to him? If so, he truly was at the pinnacle of his skill. Taking on Gottfried and his Elite was now or never.

Last edited by MarbleZone; 03-20-2016 at 01:25 PM.
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Old 03-19-2016, 02:52 PM   #8
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Gale's Chapter 1 - "Philemon, the Wings of Charm"

- Finally, it’s in sight! Look Ori, Salin City’s just head!

They’d been walking for a while. Gale Windsor, Violet-City native and Orion, the Surskit he’d just befriended, had met mere hours ago after running into Ace Trainer Levin. The blonde man had given Gale his PokeDex, moved by the Birdkeeper’s dream, and now the youngest of the Windsor family found himself branded and official Pokemon Trainer. All this after he’d just washed ashore, miraculously alive, after the Asbel-bound ship he was on had sunk…

I’ll be damned if anyone would ever believe this…

A studious young man, lover of old tales, myths and music, Gale wasn’t fond of fighting; battling by sport had always seemed pointless to him - he’d only embarked on a journey to hone his craft of birdkeeping, having concluded his training under Falkner, but above all, to meet as many Legendary Flying Pokemon as he could. He was even more enamoured with the wondrous skies than Falkner himself, perhaps even more so than his own father, Gustaph Windsor, Flying-Type Gym Leader in a faraway region to the North…

I wonder if Levin will meet that bastard.

Ori, in turn, was a Surskit who’d just recently escaped from the very City he was about to re-enter, much to his apprehension. Almost half a year in Salin’s Adoption Centre had only intensified his desire for freedom, and as such it was ironic that he now found himself under the ownership of a human. But this youngster, whose passion was the same as his, could help him realize his own dream – one day, he’d have wings and, as a result, all the freedom he ever craved! If returning to Salin City was the price to pay, so be it. He had a feeling he could trust Gale.

Just then, the silver-haired man stopped in his tracks. Orion looked up, puzzled, to find Gale smiling and clenching his fist.

- Look Ori. Over there, perched on the city name marker.

Just up ahead, sand turned to cobblestone as the beach ended where Salin City began. To mark the entrance, a signpost had been placed that read “Welcome to Salin City, the Cosmopolitan Capital of Cascadia!”
And roosting atop that marker, half-asleep…

- That’s a Unova-native bird. It’s a Pidove!

The Surskit knew exactly what Gale intended to do. He called himself a “Birdkeeper”… He wanted this Pidove to be his first bird. Which meant…

- Don’t worry Ori, we won’t fight unless we have to. Let me try something else first.

Ori smiled; Gale was different after all. A Trainer who didn’t like to battle… what were the odds?
Gale brought his fingers to his mouth and whistled in a way Ori had never heard any human whistle. It wasn’t usual annoying, high-pitched noise… it was a melodic sound that could easily pass for a female Pidove’s chirping. In an instant, the one on the signpost woke up and looked around, filled with curiosity.

- Falkner taught me this one. Just a bit longer…

The Pidove soon identified the source of the familiar tune. At first shocked to see a human perform such a ruse, that surprise turned to curiosity and it flew over to Gale and Orion.

- Oh? This one seems to have read right through me. They usually assume there’s a female nearby, but it seems Pidove saw through my little plan… you’re a smart one, aren’t you?

Ori expected Pidove to be offended over having been played, but instead, the pigeon looked up at the silver-haired man and… took a bow! It seemed to be visibly impressed with Gale’s cunning…

- I’m pleased to see you liked my display. Sorry for trying to trick you. My name’s Gale and I’m a birdkeeper in the making. Do you know what a birdkeeper is?

The Pidove shook its head while Ori’s eyes widened. How could this Trainer bond so easily with wild Pokemon? He conversed with them as casually as he would with one of his own species… was this the power of a pure-hearted human?

- I care for birds such as yourself and help them grow strong and healthy, so they don’t have to fear anything in the sky. I’d like to have a chance to make you stronger too… would you like that? Please think it over – if you’d like to see the world with me and Ori, all you gotta do is say. I’m not sure why, but I think you and I have a fair bit in common… we could make a good team!

Pidove seemed to ponder on Gale’s words for a while. This was an interesting human indeed – he could imitate his species cries to perfection, and he claimed to love all manner of birds… Well, maybe he could use such a company. If he tagged along, he could hear lots of different music, see many different cultures… meet plenty of female birds! Pidove’s mind was made up. He nodded happily and flapped his wings, taking flight and landing on Gale’s head.

Ori was dumbfounded. How did that human succeed at convicing a bird to give up his freedom like that? Then again, he’d done the exact same thing to him. What was it with Gale’s magnetism that even a fellow Trainer like Levin Sanders had taken an instant liking to him? This was a very interesting human to be tagging along with indeed… Ori wondered how far he could take them all, both himself and every other Pokemon he would inevitably gather!

- Here, this is Orion, a Surskit I met a little while ago. He’s travelling with me as well! Ori, say hi to… let’s call you Philemon. Come on guys, onwards to the Pokemon Centre! Our adventures begin there!

Last edited by MarbleZone; 03-20-2016 at 01:51 PM.
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Old 05-12-2016, 12:20 PM   #9
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Levin's Chapter 4 - "Agnes"

The S.S. Bifrost... It really was a magnificent ship. The most famous of the cruises connecting Fizzy Bubbles and Heiml was about to depart, and Luther had been gracious enough to book Levin a passage along with the official documents granting him access to the League.

This is it...

He'd never been sentimental, but the last few steps were harder than he ever thought they'd be. He stopped inches away from the boarding ramp, looked back at Salin City - a location that, like no other, helped put his name on the map - and said his silent goodbyes to Fizzy Bubbles. With a deep breath, he stepped onto the metal platform, and from there inside the S.S. Bifrost.

Min, Hebi, Zion, Bud, Hazo, Baroque, Basker, Dartz, Oro, Solair, Leon, Ajax, Nylus, Lumi, Brimir, Loffley, Eld, Qeth, Sai, Ciel, Almace, Kyzer, Seer. The family I gathered during my time here... the friends that will help me realize yet another dream, the biggest of them all. You are the most precious things I've earned in my four years here, far above any titles, Dollars or Candies. You're the 23 pieces of Fizzy Bubbles I'm taking with me, and the ones I'll hold on to long after I stop adventuring... I couldn't have asked more anything more. Now on we go, to Heiml and our destiny!

---

The sun was starting to set. Levin lay on his bed, facing the ceiling, lost in thought. For the first time in qute a while, he was begin to feel anxious. Failure had never crossed his mind up until this point, but now that he was on the road to meeting Gottfried, fear and doubt were beginning to stir within him... Leaving Fizzy Bubbles and forsaking his PokeDex meant he'd be left with nowhere else to go if he failed to win the Heiml League. And Gottfried, the legendary Champion, was undefeated for more than a decade...

He got up, shook his head and decided to take a walk on the deck to clear his mind. There was no point in faltering now, but he couldn't help himself... maybe the evening air would help him focus.

There were more people outside than he'd anticipated. Then again, the breeze was warm and the skies were clear, making for a beautiful sunset view that few people on the cruise were indifferent to. Clearly most people on deck were far wealthier than him; then again, most probably paid for the trip out of their own pocket. At one point, he too had amassed a considerable amount of money, but he'd spent most of it on something absolutely essential to his success...he looked at his Mega Glove and smiled.

Levin approached the edge of the ship and stared down at the clear, calm waters, colored orange like the sunset. But despite the absolute tranquility of the scenario, he was still restless - and had been feeling like that since his fight with Seer.

- Something troubling you dear?

The voice of an elderly woman next to him snapped him out of his reverie. Levin looked to his right to find an old lady facing him, her long red flannel dress and matching vintage hat giving her a slightly younger appearance. More importantly, he knew this woman.

- H-hello miss. By any chance... are you Lady Agnes?

The elder blushed slightly, smiling sheepishly.

- Oh bummer. I was hoping I could go unnoticed this time around... Oh well, it was my own fault I suppose. Yes, I'm Agnes... what's your name dear? And why do you look so troubled? There's no place on this lovely ship for long faces such as that...

So, he was right. Lady Agnes, Heiml resident and, more importantly, Gym Leader since her husband Ignatius had passed away.

- My name's Levin Sanders. I didn't mean to worry you... There's a lot on my mind, to be honest... I had to make a lot of big decisions over the last few days. But since you asked, there is one more thing...

Fighting the Starmie earlier had left him hungry for more. He couldn't arrive at the Victory Road unprepared. That rush, the excitement of toppling a foe, the pride of watching his Pokemon put everything he taught them to use... He wanted more! And this woman... she was a certified Gym Leader, despite her age, despite being miles away from her Gym. And to top it off, she excelled where he could still improve...

- Lady Agnes, I'd like to challenge you to a battle. I understand you're not on duty at the moment, but I'm not after a Badge either.

The old woman's smile remained, but she seemed conflicted.

- My... so that's what's wrong. You're restless... there's a fire inside you that this peaceful trip is doing nothing to douse. Ignatius would never have turned down such a challenger, would he?...

- I know you don't share your husband's love for battle, but you chose to carry his mantle and his Pokemon. His legacy lives on through you, and you've done a remarkable job in his stead. Please, I understand this isn't the right place, but it's probably the only chance I'll have to test myself against a Heiml Leader...

- Well, you do know how to speak to a lady, I will give you that. Very well, if you don't mind putting on a show for the Bifrost's passengers... I accept your challenge. Three of your partners versus three of my husband's Pokemon.

Levin smiled earnestly. The elder was in her right to turn him down, but even on break, she agreed to fight him... He was obligated to do his very best!

- You seem knowledgeable of my history. That means you know what to expect of me... choose your allies accordingly.

He knew alright. And he happened to be carrying Pokemon that could counter hers... but he had something else in mind.

- Very well. Let's go... Kyzer!

From his Fire Ball emerged Levin's Charmeleon, grinning at the chance to fight once more in such a short period of time. Agnes, in turn, was visibly surprised by the Saffron-native's choice.

- That is a most unexpected decision. It seems a battle isn't all you crave, is it dear? This also about proving a point... to yourself, perhaps?

The old lady was right. There was no merit to be had in countering a Gym Leader's Type of choice with Pokemon tailored to surpass them. Agnes, and previously her husband, excelled at handling Fire-Type Pokemon. Neither Levin nor Kyzer could ask for a better test than this.

The crowd surrounding them instinctively began forming a circle around Levin and Agnes, excited at the prospect of such an impromptu confrontation on board. The Gym Leader's expression hardened; she chose a Pokeball of her own, pulling it out of the small red handbag she carried. She gently tossed the device to the floor, and the Saffron-native watched as the creature inside took form, a Pokemon he'd never seen in person up until that point.

Delphox...

A bipedal fox with the power to manipulate fire at will, and with renowned Psychic proficiency... much like Seer. Kyzer was quick to pick up on the coincidence as well, and his grin only widened. This really was the perfect opportunity to test himself! He'd fallen against the Starmie... but he'd since sworn no Psychic Pokemon would ever beat him again!

- I believe an introduction is order. This Pokemon was awarded to Ignatius many years ago as the top prize of a Fire-Type tournament held in Kalos. My husband always said Delphox represented me, because I always knew what he was thinking...

Levin caught a glimpse of a tear forming in the corner of the Agnes' eye but she fought it back. It must have been quite the burden, carrying her husband's legacy in her old age - and what a legacy it was.

- You didn't have to carry on his duties. I'm sure Gottfried would have named a replacement after Ignatius...

- He did. He chose me.

What?

Levin had never met the Heiml Champion, but he'd heard plenty of stories. A towering elder, cold as ice, strong as a bear, unreadable and unbeatable. He oversaw the entire competitive scene in Heiml, promoting and demoting Gym Trainers, Leaders and Elite Four as he deemed necessary; he was known as a ruthless but undeniably fair judge as far as evaluating both skill and merit went. Then why?...

- Short of my son, he regarded me as the best candidate after Ignatius. He came to my house in person one day, imagine the shock when I saw Gottfried at my doorstep! He'd come to deliver both his condolences and a request. When he said I was his choice to give my husband's work continuity, he gave me the opportunity to decline. Accepting the mantle of Heiml's Fire Gym Leader was my choice and my honor.

- But then... what about your son? You said he was a better Trainer than you, wouldn't he be a bett...

- You'll meet him soon enough dear. Gottfried couldn't choose my son for the position of Gym Leader... because he is already one of the Champion's Elite Four.

Levin quickly ran a checklist of the Elites he knew were on active duty under the Northern Champion. Drago was the same age as Gottfried, an old man just like him, and Brunhilde was a woman. That left two options: Sigurd and...

- Bernhardt?

Agnes smiled again when Levin pieced it together.

- You're headed to the League, aren't you? I can tell, you're not a regular Trainer giving his first steps. You and Bernhardt are destined to fight one another. It was a an act of Arceus that we should cross paths, then. Because if you intend to defeat my son, you undoubtedly have to surpass me!

Kyzer took Agnes' words as the proclamation of war he wanted to hear. Turning to Levin, he found approval in his eyes and prepared to engage Delphox.

- I've already surpassed you Agnes. It took me four years, but I know I'm better than any of Heiml's Gym Leaders! And I'll show you!

- Please do! Delphox, Psyshock!

The magician held her wand and hurled a large orb of psy energy at Levin's Charmeleon; the Fire-Type however, was prepared.

- Cancel it out with a Flame Burst, then go physical!

He didn't have to spell it out to Kyzer anymore, they'd trained together extensively and Syre's son knew exactly what Levin intended. Smiling at the instructions, Kyzer unleashed a massive fireball aimed straight at Delphox's psy-orb! The two projectiles collided midway, creating a powerful explosion that filled the deck with smoke. And that was precisely what Levin intended...

- Now!

Agnes and Delphox were stunned, unable to see their opponents. And suddenly, Kyzer leaped out from within the black fog and Slashed the witch fox right across the torso!

- Oh my. Well done dear! It seems your Charmleon has fought Psychic-Type opponents recently, hasn't he?

- Kyzer is a lot like me: he never makes the same mistake twice. This match was decided the minute you chose Delphox.

- Your confidence is noted, but you'd do well not to underestimate a Gym Leader, regardless of what you faced before. Delphox dear, trap Kyzer with your Psychic hold!

The fox gripped her wand and aimed it at Levin's partner, but the young man was unfazed.

- No Trainer raises a Psychic-Type that carefully and neglects to use Psychic. It was a move I struggled to overcome for many years... but it has a weakness. That's it Delphox, take a good look at Kyzer!

Delphox locked eyes with the Charmeleon, and immediately staggered at the visage: the Fire-Type's expression was terrifying, a look of bloodlust and glimmering fangs met the unsuspecting opponent and caused her to lower her guard.

- Your Pokemon can't do anything unless it focuses on its target. Now, Kyzer doesn't particularly enjoy being stared at, please forgive his Scary Face!

Kyzer grinned at Delphox's shock, but knew he had to capitalize on it quickly. Levin did too.

- It's time! Show Agnes the full extent of your power, the one you inherited from Syre and Vesta!

With a roar, Kyzer charged his energy into a glistening blue aura. The Aura took the shape of a massive dragon head, and the Charmeleon lunged himself at Delphox!

- Dragon Rush!!

Agnes smiled at the inevitable outcome. Kyzer slammed into his opponent, the ensuing blast knocking several spectators off their feet; when the blue glow faded and the dust settled, Delphox was laid unconscious on the damaged floor.

- My, it seems you were right. That was a marvelous display of strategic thinking - one born out of personal experience, as is often the case with skilled Ace Trainers. Delphox, thank you dear, have a rest now.

Levin gave Kyzer a thumbs-up while the dragon-to-be struggled to catch his breath. The battle with Seer had done wonders for the Charmeleon - they'd jsut beat a Heiml Gym Leader's Pokemon!

- Thank you Agnes. And thank you too Kyzer, that will be all for now, have a rest too.

The elder was mildly surprised at Levin's choice to recall his partner before even seeing her second one. With a chuckle, she reached for another PokeBall and dropped it to the floor, causing it to spring open.

- According to Ignatius, Delphox represented me. This one represents our son, our pride and joy.

A burst of flame erupted from the materialized creature's black fur. Towering above Agnes, it growled, eyes firmly locked on Levin's.

- Typhlosion represents Bernhardt?

- Oh, absolutely. You'll see for yourself once you meet him! He's always so quiet and reserved... until you rile him up. When he gets going, he explodes with fiery passion!

To prove her point, Agnes's Typhlosion let loose his flames again. It remained to be seen if it was stronger than her Delphox however.

Eld... No, He is one of my secret weapons. Agnes, strong as she may be, is still just a Gym Leader - I can't show all of my trump cards publicly before I even reach the League. This calls for someone else, someone who's fought the best of the best as far as Fire-Types are concerned!

He'd stick to his plan - fight Fire with Fire. To take on Typhlosion, he had just the right partner in mind.

- Your turn... Basker!

With a howl loud enough to Intimidade even the imposing Typhlosion, the Arcanine took his place on the SS Bifrost deck. Many of the spectators watching the battle were awestruck by the hound's presence - Basker was indeed a sight to behold.

- My friend has battled the best wild Fire-Types in the whole region of Fizzy Bubbles; he overcame the Arena of Mt. Fumi, now it's time how he measures up to a Gym Leader. Please don't hold back Agnes, Basker will resent it.

- I don't intend to hold back against you at all, dear. Not if you plan on challenging my son in the near future. Your beautiful Arcanine has nothing to worry about.

Levin and Agnes smiled simultaneously. Despite the elder's apparent lack of passion for battling in general, the Ace Trainer could tell she was just as excited as he was - for different reasons, but excited nevertheless. He represented a challenge to her son, and she wanted to make Levin as strong as she could so that her dear Bernhardt could have a proper challenge. Depp down, she wasn't really doing this for Levin as much as she was for her son, but the Saffron-native didn't resent her. If anything, he'd make the most of this opportunity... and go on to crush Bernhardt with the extra experience he got from Agnes!

- Basker, stay alert. This is no wild Pokemon... Remember what you learned in Mt. Fumi, but keep your guard up! Odor Sleuth Typhlosion so you don't lose track of him, then blast him with Dragon Rage!

Basker caught his opponent's scent with ease, and reared his head back for following attack, when Agnes smiled.

- No need to worry about keeping track of Typhlosion, he isn't going anywhere dear. Extrasensory!

The Volcano Pokemon's eyes gleamed blue and Basker howled in pain. Distracted by the sudden intense migraine, he unleashed the Dragon Rage flames into the air aimlessly, then staggered as he struggled to recover from the unexpected Psychic onslaught.

- Don't let up dear! Crush Claw!

Rushing forward like a black bullet, Typhlosion's right claw took on a translucent glow and grew several times its original size. The Fire-Type closed in on Basker and slashed away... catching nothing but air!

- H-how?...

This time, it was Levin who smiled.

- Basker and I have been together for a very long time. I taught him moves long forgotten by most other Arcanine out there... Basker, reappear and run him over with a Bulldoze from behind!

This was the technique they'd perfected in Mt. Fumi. In the blink of an eye, Basker Teleported right behind his opponent and slammed him with a super-effective hit that sent Typhlosion to the ground!

- Oh my... I should have seen that coming from your Pokemon's Dragon Rage. Those are some ancient techniques indeed... you're full of surprises!

- I had a feeling you'd like it. Not so sure Typhlosion does.

The old woman smiled at Levin's jab. She'd met many Trainers in her time as Gym Leader, some of which much like him - confident, cocky, sometimes slightly arrogant - but this one could back up everything he said. She wasn't pulling any punches, and Levin could tell, which made his remarks all the more taunting.

- Not to worry, I'll show you how Typhlosion feels. Just a little longer dear, you can do this! Rock Slide!

Levin had suspected she'd resort to type advantage tactics sooner or later. She was limited in her choices - neither Earthquake nor Dig could be used on the S.S. Bifrost deck, full of passengers, and moves like Rock Tomb were pointless against a Teleporting target. Rock Slide was one of the few viable alternatives.

- Leap on the boulders and gain height for a diving Bulldoze!

Typhlosion summoned the stone projectiles around him and hurled them at Basker, who nimbly jumped around evading each of the dangerous rocks. But just as he was about to counterattack, Typhlosion launched another attack - one Levin didn't hear Agnes order!

The Arcanine was struck square in the chest by a massive Focus Blast; the orb exploded on contact and sent Basker crashing back down to the deck, landing hard on his side. Levin clenched his fist instinctively, and only loosened up once he saw his faithful hound struggle back up, still willing to fight!

- Now Typhlosion, put him away with a Rock Slide! He's not strong enough to dodge anymore.

Levin gritted his teeth. Agnes planned the entire sequence, right from the first Rock Slide... she knew Basker would dodge the first attempt! But there was another way...

- Well done Agnes. But evading isn't the only way to defend against you! The Basker you see... is no longer there!

Agnes looked on in shock as the afterimage of Basker catching his breath slowly faded from view, and the real Arcanine rammed the full weight of his body into Typhlosion's abdomen with his Extreme Speed! The Volcano Pokemon bent over in pain and Basker leaped back to catch a breather of his own. The God-like speed of his strike wasn't enough to knock Typhlosion out...

- Well now, that was yet another trick I didn't see coming. But what now Levin? Look at them. Both are exhausted, barely conscious... Do you have what it takes to win?

- It's been a great battle Agnes. Typhlosion and Basker are evenly matched. I think... our role as Trainers in this match isn't relevant anymore. We should let them see for themselves who comes out on top; something tells me that's what they want.

The Gym Leader's smile widened in agreement. Perhaps astonished by Levin's previously-concealed maturity, she found herself forced to agree with the much younger Trainer's assessment.

- Typhlosion... finish this on your own terms.

- Basker, he's all yours.

The two rivals glared at one another, grinned, then channeled the last of their remaining strength into equally-impressive auras of flame that engulfed them; the blazes enveloping each of them then began to burn blue at the same time, and both Basker and Typhlosion lunged at one another with a definitve Flare Blitz!!

The two Fire-Types collided midway in a violent explosion of sapphire flames, and it was a miracle that the deck didn't crack or collapse altogether. Smoke filled the makeshift battleground, but it was quick to clear out in the open, and the outcome of the clash was immediately apparent: Both Levin's and Agnes's Pokemon were lying unconscious, knocked out simultaenously.

- My, oh my. What do I have to do to get a win over you? That was quite the splendid bout. Your Arcanine is indeed as remarkable as it is beautiful.

- Your Typhlosion was quite the opponent. I'm sure Bernhardt would be proud to be compared to such a great Pokemon! But we're not done yet, right?

- Right you are. I do have one more partner I'd like to show you... the one I hold dearest, the representation of my late husband. Much like Ignatius was the pillar of strength in our family, so too is this one the strongest of my team.

From the elder's last Pokeball emerged a towering figure, his beard of fire burning bright. The Emboar stomped the deck floor and slammed his fists against his torso, raring to go.

- Hotheaded and temperamental, but with unparalleled strength and dedication: Emboar was Ignatius's ace, and I couldn't think of a more fitting partner for my husband than his mirror image. Your turn, Levin dear!

This was it, the final Pokemon of Heiml's Fire Gym Leader. A massive Emboar, embodiment of the late Ignatius. Levin had heard of this Pokemon before, though admittedly, he'd forgotten about it once the battle was underway. Fortunately for him, everything lined up perfectly, considering the partner he'd chosen from the start as his final Pokemon in this match.

- It's an honor to face your Emboar, Agnes. But I'm out to prove something; please forgive my choice of Pokemon to face your champion, but my partner needs this battle more than anyone else!

He tossed a Safari Ball in the air, and from it emerged Solair, the Fletchinder Levin had caught as a tiny Fletchling a year and a half ago.

- This is your final challenge before we face Vesper! Treat this as a prelude to your battle with his Beedrill!

Levin's words incensed Solair, to whom memories of Vesper's Mega Pokemon would always be fresh on his mind - the way Beedrill had evolved into a new form, then pierced his wings to the ground, opening holes in them he thought would never heal. But they did - and in fact, through his willpower and a miracle Dream, they were reborn into special wings unlike any Fizzy Bubbles had ever seen. Now. he sought retribution against Vesper and Mega Beedrill, and if defeating this Emboar was part of that road, so be it!

- Fire with Fire, for the third time in a row. You're a stubborn one, Levin, but I like it. Let's go! Emboar, shoot down Fletchinder with Scald!

Emboar was an odd Pokemon as Fire-Types went, knowing how to employ unusual techniques such as Water moves. Levin knew this well, and he also knew there was little to worry about if Agnes was going for such a straightforward approach.

- Predictable. Solair, do your thing!

With a determined cry, the firebird soared high and dove down, nimbly dodging every stream of boiling water and spiraling towards Emboar in an effortless series of twists and turns that helped him evade the consecutive Scald attempts.

- Acrobatics!!

Enveloped in white energy, Solair crashed into Emboar, unburdened and more agile than ever, hitting the opponent so hard it caused him to trip and fall over with a thud. Agnes looked on, astonished at the bird's strength - enough to topple the giant Fighting-Type - but quickly regained composure.

- Emboar, hang in there! There is one weakness we can easily exploit to bring that Fletchinder down, isn't there?

The Mega Fire Pig got back to his feet, grinned and growled in understanding. Slamming his fists together, he caused dozens of boulders to materialize around and above Solair, and with a downward motion of his arms, the rocks came crashing down on the firebird to trap him in a Rock Tomb!

It makes sense that Agnes would try to hit our weakest spot. Rock moves are extremely damaging to Fletchinder - but they can be worked around by someone with Solair's skill!

- Tailwind to get out of range!!

Almost instantaneously, a powerful breeze began to blow, causing some of the ladies in the audience to lose their pricey hats; Solair rode the gale and bolted away, soaring in the air current even faster than he'd moved up until this point. Nimbly maneuvering around the falling boulders, the firebird homed in on his foe, looking to strike back before Emboar could regroup...

- He's in range now: Smack Down that Fletchinder for good, dear!

The Mega Fire Pig and Agnes had Solair's movements figured out by now. Despite his blistering speed granting him an advantage over his large foe, Solair's very personality compelled to always fight up close, vastly preferring to engage in melee range, as the most honorable way to do battle. So all they rally had to do was wait until the Fletchinder inevitably drew near... The rock projectile hit Solair square in his right wing, and the avian crashed down hard right at Emboar's feet.

No! Come on Levin, think!

- Emboar, it's time to end this. Bury his Fletchinder in one last Rock Tomb!

He can't withstand one of those after that Smack Down. Besides, his wing... if those rocks hit him, there's a good chance he'll injure his wing permanently! Which means...

Despite his partner's predicament, Levin smiled once again. Agnes noted his unexpected change in behavior, but went ahead with her orders regardless.

- I guess it can't be helped. We were saving it for the battle with Vesper, but we can't afford to lose here... Solair! Now's the time! Let it all out!!

Solair's heart started pumping faster. Levin's instructions were filled with determination... And if his master was so sure now was the right time, he would gladly comply! He'd show Emboar, Agnes and finally Vesper what he was truly capable of! No more holding back!

Stones formed overhead, sharp, heavy, menacing. At the same time, Solair's body took on a mighty glow, resembling the very Sun he worshipped; light turned to flames, the fire taking on a large bird-like shape - it was as if Solair had become the mythical Phoenix itself. A flap of his blazing wings propelled him forward faster than either Levin's or Agnes' eyes could follow, and he rammed into the unsuspecting Emboar's gut with a crippling Flare Blitz!

- He did it... Solair, you made it!!

By the time Rock Tomb crashed against the deck's floor, the fire-engulfed Solair was already soaring high above, such was the incredible speed he now possessed. The flames then subsided, revealing the bird in all its newfound glory - no longer a Fletchinder, but a majestic whose cry of triumph was the culmination of a life of dedication and suffering. In this form, he could finally seek retribution... avenge his pierced wings.

- My... what a gorgeous Talonflame. He's a special one, isn't he dear?

- Solair has gone though more than just about any other Pokemon I've trained. He has a purpose in life, a burning desire... in reality, it's the only reason he still travels with me. I can take him to the man he wants to defeat; until then, he won't be able to move on.

Vesper's defeat is within our reach, closer than ever now! And once that's taken care of, you can go your own way... That boy, you can't quite forget him can you Solair? That aspiring birdkeeper we met near Salin...

- Just a little longer Solair, two more victories! Let's seize the first one right now, once and for all!

The Talonflame locked eyes with Emboar, Levin's words resonating with his burning spirit.

- Fine! Come at us then, Levin and Solair! Emboar, Smack Down once again! Don't let him get close!

- Your Emboar... he won't land a single hit on Solair anymore.

Boulder after boulder, the Fire Pig tried to bring his foe down once again, like he had before, but Solair's movements were not only much faster than before - with his newfound power and the aid of Tailwind, they were untraceable! Dodging every single projectile, the Talonflame moved effortlessly through the air, unhindered, as if his Wings were a Gale itself... he hadn't felt this way since that Dream.

- Brave Bird!!

- Scald!!

Enveloped in a brilliant aura, Solair picked up even more speed; allowing himself to dive head-first againt Emboar's torrent of hot water, the Talonflame merely pierced through it, and didn't stop until he crashed into his foe in a powerful explosion of pent-up energy! Agnes' Pokemon was sent crashing against the deck a second time, while Solair flew back to Levin and landed on his outstretched arm. He knew, before anyone else, that Emboar would not be getting up.

- Dear me, that was... simply splendid. Remarkable! A Talonflame such as that... I'd never seen one like it. We didn't stand a chance, I'm afraid...

Smiling all the while, she recalled her Pokemon, then approached Levin as the bewildered crowd clapped and cheered.

- I'm afraid I carry no Gym Badges with me at the moment... but that's wasn't what you were after anyway am I right? You are a formidable Trainer indeed, dear.... Bernhardt will have a field day with you!

- I look forward to meeting him at the League. And fighting you was an honor in of itself! Thank you for going out of your way to do this. It... means a lot to me.

The feeling was still somewhat strange to him, even after years of traveling: genuine gratitude for the actions of another human. He hadn't been raised to expect kindness, but in his travels grew to find that such kindness wasn't actually hard to find. Agnes was one such example.

Time flew while he was battling Heiml's Gym Leader. Before he knew it, Yggdahl City Port was in sight. Levin had finally reached the northernmost region of the Pokemon World!

The disembarking procedures seemed to take forever. All he wanted was to set foot on Heiml soil, more confident in his success than ever, having just defeated a local Gym Leader with relative ease.
From a distance, unbeknownst to Levin, someone watched the Saffron-born Ace Trainer with malicious intent. Emerald hair flowing in the salty breeze, the young man traced Levin's every step, biding his time to make a final move.

- You won't have to worry about finding me... I'm inches away from killing your career for good.

Keeping his distance, Vesper Gant waited patiently in line until it was his turn to leave the S.S. Bifrost.
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Old 06-06-2016, 01:39 PM   #10
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Gale's Chapter 2 - "Rhadamanthys, the Wingless King"

Rain’s not letting up...

Gale tried to shield himself from the downpour as best he could, without much success. It was a curious situation, now that he thought of it – he’d tamed several birds since setting off on his journey, many of whom should be able to provide some manner of cover from the rain with their wings. However, he also knew there wasn’t a single one of those Pokemon who’d be fit to do it! Philemon was too finicky, Siegfried too self-centered, Ludwig too grumpy, Musashi too proud, Nobunaga too small. And that was how it came to be that he was running along the Salin City grassy outskirts wearing a Surskit for a hat…

- I’m so sorry about this Orion! I promise I’ll make it up to you!

The Bug-Type didn’t really mind the situation, to be honest, since he was actually pretty happy around rain. But he wasn’t about to pass up the chance for extra compensation, so he’d play along and act annoyed just the same. Besides, even though nobody recognized him as the Surskit who fled from the Adoption Centre, the return to Salin City was nothing but a flow of bad memories to him, so when he looked at it, the reward was actually deserved!

No more sea travel for me. From now on, I either walk or fly to my destinations. Had enough shipwrecks to last me five lifetimes… Now if only I could find a way to make it to the mainland!

It wasn’t that he disliked Brine Island or Cascadia as a whole, but there was only so far you could go in an archipelago that you refuse to leave by boat. And since none of his birds were (or would ever be) large enough to carry him away, the situation proved tricky to solve…
So lost was he in his thoughts, and so busy trying to outrun the rain, that he failed to notice the two men up ahead. He slammed into one blindly, colliding so hard that both were fell over in a puddle of soaked grass.

- Ow! What the… oh! I’m sorry, I didn’t see you!

The other man helped his companion up, and both glared at Gale. They wore similar outfits, entirely white, and neither looked the least bit friendly…

- Stupid brat! Look what you did, you ruined my uniform!

- That’s a bit of a stretch, rain had it ruined before I even got here… Not that I did it on purpose!

- Oh so you’re bein’ a smartass now? That does it. I’m havin’ the most unbelievably shitty day today, you picked a bad guy to piss off boy!

His partner concurred. Unbeknownst to Gale, they were Rift members who were forced to flee Salin after Luther Helford’s Pangoro went on a murderous rampage and kicked the survivors out of the city.

- You screwed up big time! That’s it, I’m taking it all out on your sorry ass! Sliggoo, make yourself useful!

The Rift were a pro-human organization who defended mankind’s supremacy over all species. They mostly used firearms for protection, to prove their point that manmade technology could surpass any natural force, but did not shy from using Pokemon to carry out their assignments… only, they didn’t do so as regular Trainers.
A snail-like animal emerged from the Rift Grunt’s peculiar Pokeball (a Cyber Ball, though Gale couldn’t identify it as such). The Violet-native had never seen a Pokemon like that; to be fair, he knew next to nothing about most non-Flying Pokemon…

What are they getting all aggressive for? It was an accident!! I… I don’t want to fight!

It wasn’t simply that he didn’t want to fight either, it was that he didn’t know how to battle. He despised the very concept of it, even knowing there was virtually no chance he could lead a Trainer’s life without ever coming to blows. But at the very least, he’d hoped his first clash would be a friendly one… nothing like this!

I don’t even know what I’m up against, how do I figh…. Wait. Levin’s gift!

As soon as it clicked, he reached for his Bag and retrieved the PokeDex Levin Sanders had given him not long ago. He aimed it at the strange slimy creature ahead, and sure enough, the device started functioning!

, the Soft Tissue Pokemon. It drives away opponents by excreting a sticky liquid that can dissolve anything. Its four horns are a high-performance radar system. It uses them to sense sounds and smells, rather than using ears or a nose. Its eyes devolved, so it can’t see anything.

Gale’s heart started pumping even faster.

A Dragon? Isn’t that one of the strongest Pokemon Types out there?! Even though it’s blind, what chance do I stand against something like that? But wait… this one in the PokeDex gallery doesn’t have that black thing around its neck…

He hadn’t paid it any attention before, assuming all specimens of that family had a similar object with them, but it turned out that wasn’t the case. This Sliggoo had a black ring around its neck with four red LEDs; Gale could only assumed it was put there by the man who owned the snail, but for what purpose?...

- Sliggoo, this one’s in the way! I want him dead, you hear?! Dispose of that worthless brat!!

Upon hearing the irate orders, the Pokemon flinched briefly. Gale immediately picked up on Sliggoo’s hesitation – understanding Pokemon’s body language and mannerisms came naturally to him, though he’d always assumed he could only read birds’ movements.

It’s holding back?...

- You worthless little shit, did you not hear me? Was I not clear?! MOVE!

The black ring’s lights went on, and Sliggoo screeched in pain. An obedience insurance… that’s what the device was. Gale’s stomach turned in disgust, but he didn’t have time to protest: he narrowly dodged a jet of blue flames expelled by the Dragon-Type, almost slipping on the wet grass!

Damn it! They’re serious, they really want to hurt me! This is insane!!

Orion was getting seriously riled up, but knew Gale forbade him from engaging anyone without his consent. But seriously, how long did he plan on holding off the inevitable? That Sliggoo wasn’t going to stop until Gale was dead!

- Urgh!!

A third Dragon Breath finally caught the youngest Windsor, striking him the leg and causing him to fall over in pain. Orion leapt off Gale’s head, having had enough, and prepared to stand up to Sliggoo…

- No! Orion, stop! It’s… it’s not his fault. Those guys are making him do it!

- Hah! You’re really just gonna make things this easy for us? What kinda shitty Trainer are you?! Sliggoo, again!

The red lights on the collar went on again, and the snail-like Pokemon cried out, as if a surge of electrical current coursed through its body. Then again, maybe that was exactly what it was, since he vaguely recalled Dragons being exceptionally resistant to electricity… Maybe that’s why they could afford to push Sliggoo to these limits.

Enough… enough! You bastards!!

In his fury, Gale hastily reached for the first Pokeball his fingers touched and tossed it, just as Orion jumped in front another incoming Dragon Breath. The blast hit him violently, tossing the tiny Surskit several feet back much to Gale’s dismay. Philemon the Pidove emerged just then, and looked around in complete confusion: why were Gale and Orion on the floor? Who was that strange creature with the black necklace? And why on earth would his human friend send him out in this ghastly weather?!

- Philemon please, I need your help! Get that collar off of Sliggoo, it’s a torture device!

Gale’s request sounded terribly dangerous, not healthy in the slightest. The complete opposite behaviour of what a Pokemon craving longevity should do! But… a torture device? Would other humans truly stoop so low to earn the services of a fellow Pokemon? All Gale had to do was ask nicely (and mention female birds) and he was swift to follow. Why couldn’t other people be sensible like him?

Fighting back his usual fear of conflict, Philemon took flight. He had to help Sliggoo, it was the gentlemanly thing to do! He soared as high as his soaked wings allow (which wasn’t that high at all), then prepared to swoop in and peck that black contraption off in one elegant, fell swoop. But just as he dove down and came into range, Sliggoo sensed his approach and, alarmed, unleashed a torrent of Muddy Water that hit Philemon square in the chest, the brunt of the impact enough to knock out the Pidove mid-flight! Were Philemon still conscious, he likely would have imagined his downwards descent to be a thing of tragic beauty, that of a hero slain in combat, his honor intact. What actually happened was a clumsy tumble from six feet high all the way down to a puddle below.

- Philemon! N-no… what have I done?

He’d never seen a companion faint. The sight of his dear Pidove lying on the ground, not moving, triggered something inside him, a fierce determination he never knew he had. Gale rose to his feet, grabbed every single Pokeball in his belt at once and hurled them all simultaneously.

- Soar! Nobunaga, Musashi, Siegfried, Ludwig!!

His four remaining allies all joined his side, immediately grasping the severity of the situation once they saw Philemon unconscious in front of a berserk Sliggoo. While Gale believed none of them had ever battled in their lives, he knew how much Musashi and Siegfried were eager to test their strength, and unknown to him, Nobunaga had already had several battles in the past and even defeated an Aerodactyl under the ownership of a previous Trainer…

- I don’t know who you guys are or what your problem is, but I won’t let you harm me or that Pokemon any longer! Everyone, we need to get that collar off of Sliggoo! We can’t allow Philemon’s effort to be in vain!

Some strange, impulsive rush of bravery overwhelmed him, but he was perfectly aware of his shortcomings in the battling department. However, that didn’t matter right now, it couldn’t matter – because if he faltered, both his life and possibly Sliggoo’s would be in grave danger. The more longer they continued to force the dragonling to attack, the more violent he became, and the more drained he felt. No Pokemon could withstand continuous pain like that without breaking at some point, but something told Gale that didn’t matter at all to the two men in white.

His winged army prepared to charge, Keen Eyes locked on Sliggoo’s hazardous accessory. The Rift’s answer came predictable and almost immediate in the face of this new threat.

- Sliggoo, dispose of them all! They’re nothing but a bunch of underleveled pipsqueaks! Roast them, and then the boy when you’re done!

Again, the snail resisted. It saw no reason to harm either the human nor his birds… but its hesitation was immediately punished, more severely than ever – the four lights went on and didn’t turn back off, Sliggoo was zapped by a continuous current until it obeyed. The Dragon-Type cried, squirmed, twisted and turned under the intense pain, until…

- ROOOOOOOAAAAAAR!!

The shout was deep, powerful and ominous, a sound no creature Sliggoo’s size should be able to make. And then, under the unrelenting rain, the snail’s body began to glow; its frame grew, and grew, and grew, until it surpassed both Gale and both Rift Grunts in height. The brilliant aura faded only when the dragon’s frame ceased to expand, and when it disappeared, the creature was no longer the same… Overcome with rage, the lt out a second roar powerful enough to push the four birds back, then launched an assault of his own accord, blinded by pain!

Gale’s Spearow, Ludwig, was the first to fall to a Dragon Pulse that shook the very ground as it was fired. Musashi, the proud and methodical Farfetch’d, was hammered with a violent Power Whip with Goodra’s horns the second he drew in close to strike, fainting immediately. Finally, seeing their comrades fall with such ease, Nobunaga and Siegfried tried for a joint strike, but were met with the unbridled fury of Goodra’s Outrage and collapsed as well…

- It can’t be… what kind if monster is that?! My friends… they’re all…

No. There’s one left… But I can’t put him in harm’s way too! So much pain… why does it have to be like that? Why all this fighting? That thing… it’s no longer Sliggoo, it’s something else entirely now, but it’s still in pain. This isn’t its fault! I have to help it, it’s the only way to make it stop!

Goodra was still flailing about, unleashing its Outrage blindly, stomping and howling. He then locked eyes with the Rift Grunts, recognizing them as the bringers of his immense pain… His angered flare yet again, and while one of the men pushed the collar’s trigger frantically to no avail, the dragon unleashed a Dragon Pulse straight at his owners! The ensuing blast sent the two flying and left a massive crater in the grassy floor… but Goodra wasn’t done! Turning back around, he focused his attention back to Gale, his initial target…

I can’t stop him… I’m done for…

Just then, out of nowhere, a massive bolt of lightning struck from above, the electric pillar causing the Goodra to stagger from both surprise and sheer impact! It was left dizzy, and its movements strangely impaired, as if Paralyzed… what on earth just happened?!
Gale looked around, trying to find the source of the life-saving Thunder. And there it was, a few feet away – an enormous yellow ape-like creature, fur still radiating with electrical charge. What a majestic creature…

- Thank you Rai, return.

The gentle, tranquilizing voice belonged to someone only now coming into view amidst the heavy rain. A man likely in his twenties, with long blue hair, a dark-blue sweater and gray pants, wearing a white scarf and headband…


He placed a hand on the ape’s shoulder, and Gale noticed just how large the animal was – definitely taller than the man himself, now that they were standing side by side. He recalled the Electric-Type, then calmly reached for three other Pokeballs at the same time, dropping them to the floor.

- To me: Ka, Rin and Sui.

None of the three Pokemon who emerged were familiar to Gale. Asif only then noticing the Violet-native’s presence, the blue-haired man smiled warmly and introduced his partners

- Oh. Hello there. You’re new to this, aren’t you? These are my Ninetales, Whimsicott and Golduck. The one from before was Electivire. Hmm, though it feels strange to call them by these names… can’t remember the last time I did. Your PokeDex should tell you all you need to know about them, when you think it’s appropriate.

Gale was speechless. How could this guy be so calm in front of a monster like that? What was with all the smiling and friendly banter?!

- Rin, the Goodra means no harm, but we do have to tire it out. Could you please see to that? Ka, we’ll need your help to get that device off, so please begin when Rin’s done. Sui, you should have a conversation with the two gentlemen back there, if you don’t mind. Fuu and Zan get the day off, I’m afraid… we’ll switch things up next time, I promise.

The man’s instructions came so casually and elaborate that the foe had plenty of time to recover and, still overwhelmed by the collar-induced pain, the dragon unleashed another Dragon Pulse straight at the stranger who’d saved Gale’s life. Sensing the approaching blast, the blue-haired man turned to face it, without a glimpse of fear in his eyes.

His expression just changed… he’s serious now!

- Rin.

The Pokemon he’d identified as Whimsicott leaped in front of the energy pulse, arms spread as wide as its grin, and Gale looked on in disbelief as the beam of light dissipated immediately upon contact with the little creature!
Without any need for further instructions, Rin kept floating in mid-air and brought her tiny hands together; after a brief chant, a surge of pink energy suddenly exploded forward, a Moonblast several times bigger than Gale reasoned a creature of that size could possibly unleash. The wave of moonlight washed over Goodra, who was finally knocked off his feet by the ferocity of the blast!

- Ka.

The golden fox, possibly one of the most beautiful animals Gale had ever seen, leaped in front of the dragon. It waited patiently and in silence for Goodra to make it back to his feet, then locked eyes with the enemy as his own changed from red to blue, glowing on its own and then in unison with the dragon’s. After a brief while, Goodra yawned and tilted back and forth, overwhelmed by a sudden drowsiness…

- You should make your move now, before he grows too violent again.

Gale’s mind was a mess right now. He never wanted any of this… no violence, no pain. Nd, he was sure, neither did the Sliggoo who was now called Goodra… He appreciated the help, but he just wanted to make it all stop. This was his chance…

- Thank you, you saved me and I’m in your debt, but please, recall your Pokemon. Ask them to stand down… I just need to talk to him, maybe that’s all we gotta do!

He was trembling in fear, but what else could he do? He knew what it was like to be thrust into battles he didn’t want to fight. If his instincts were correct, Goodra didn’t want to fight any longer either. The collar was making him do it!
He walked over to the dragon who, despite being groggy still from Ka’ Hypnosis, immediately growled at Gale’s approach.

- Calm down Slig… Goodra. I don’t want to hurt you…

The snail-turned-dragon charged up another Pulse, gathering energy in his maw to drive the man away. He had enough of them all, humans and their cruelty! This one was no different.

- Please. Listen to me, I… I can make your pain go away. I can set you free, release you from those two criminals. You’ll never have to suffer again!

Goodra opened his mouth, iridescent sphere of dragon power about to burst… but something about this human made him hesitate…

- They… we all hurt you, I know. But please listen to me. Let me help you! It’s the least I can do. You don’t deserve any of this. That thing around your neck, please let me take it off, it’s all I ask!

The orb of energy began to fade. Goodra was listening. Maybe, just maybe, this human was different…

- Orion, let’s go! Aqua Jet!

Goodra’s eyes narrowed upon hearing the battle command. He was tricked! How could he be so foolish?!
Before the giant dragon could react, Gale’s Surskit dashed forward like a bullet, propelled by the pressurized water around him, and crashed full-force against Goodra’s black ring, causing the device to shatter into a dozen pieces and come loose. And just like that, in the blink of an eye… the pain was gone.

- Yes! Way to go Ori!!

The Surskit rose back to his tiny feet, trying to ignore the monstrous headache from the head-on collision with the metal contraption, and looked all the way up at Goodra, trying to gauge its reaction. The dragon, in turn, looked around in confusion, still dazed from it all – Ka’s psychic influence and the sudden interruption of the electricity running though him. After a while he seemed to gather his thoughts, looked down to meet Orion’s stare… and picked up the Surskit in his arms, much to Ori’s panic!

- Wh-what?

The dragon walked over to Gale, handed him Orion and smiled. Gale smiled in return… Goodra was grateful, and that was a good thing. What Gale didn’t expect was for the gooey dragon, who towered above him and any other human, to suddenly pull him in for a sticky embrace!
The blue-haired man watched the scene while petting his Ninetales and allowing his Whimsicott to rest on his head. Smiling as well, he congratulated Gale.

- Seems you made a friend. Perhaps an ally even… a big, powerful one. If I may chime in, why don’t you ask him?

Gale looked at the man in confusion.

- Ask him what?

- Oh, I… thought it was obvious. Ask Goodra if he wants to join you, I meant.

The silver-haired boy was taken aback by the suggestion. Would that even be a good idea?

- B-but… I don’t know anything about dragons. Actually, I don’t know anything about Pokemon that aren’t birds! Goodra should be free, or at least with someone who could raise him properly and…

- Still… ask him all the same.

Why was he being so insistent all of a sudden? He was all calm and friendly at the most critical of moments, and now he was pushing him like this… What was up with that guy?

- W-well… Goodra? Did you hear him? I didn’t really plan for any of this, but… you know, if you’d like… I really have no idea how to raise a Pokemon like you, but we could be friends and…

- Goodra! Goo!!

The hug tightened and Goodra’s grin widened. Clearly, he was ecstatic at the perspective of joining the only human who’d ever shown him compassion.

- What do you know? Seems it was a good idea after all.

Something about the cheerful, slightly cocky way the man with the scarf spoke annoyed Gale, who was forced to recognize he was indeed right. And maybe it was for the best after all.

- I don’t know how to battle; I put all my partners in danger because I never studied anything about fighting… I just wanted to raise birds. Maybe Goodra can be our guardian, protect me and the rest of the team. He clearly knows how to fight, even if I don’t. Well then Goodra, how would you like a new name to go with your new family? Let’s see… I’m thinking… Rhadamanthys.

Goodra didn’t know the character, but being given a name was already special in of itself. He’d welcome anything Gale proposed, and was quick to nod happily at the suggestion.

- Heh, we’re all set then… For formality’s sake, I have to put you inside one of these Pokeballs. Although… you already belong to those men. Would that even work?

He found himself instinctively looking at the blue-haired man. He in turn smiled, then pointed over to the creature who was just now joining them – a large bipedal kappa, the Golduck called Sui.

- I wouldn’t worry. My friend had a meeting with those two men in white. Something tells me the Pokeball that held Goodra is… no longer available. Am I right Sui?

Cold as ice, the only reaction from Golduck was a slight, almost imperceptible nod. And that was good enough for Gale, who tapped Goodra with a Ball of his own, pulling him inside with no resistance until it clicked shut.

- Thank you… thanks, all of you, from the bottom of my heart. If you hadn’t shown up when you did… My name’s Gale Windsor. I know the names of your partners too, but didn’t get yours…

- My name’s Yud… heh.

Gale noticed the poorly concealed sadness behind the man’s forced smile as he stopped mid-sentence.

- Everyone calls me Kamui. Let’s go with that. It was my pleasure to help, and honestly, a welcome break from walking around in the rain. I’m headed to Salin City, what about you?

- Nice to meet you Kamui. I just left Salin, actually. Still trying to figure out how to leave Cascadia, I’d like to reach the mainlaind… but I’m trying to avoid boats, silly as that may sound. Got my reasons…

- I see. If you’d like, I could lend you Sui. He’s more trustworthy than any ship; you can send him back over once you reach a Pokemon Center. How about it?

- That’s really nice of you, and if you’d asked me before all of this happened, I’d have said yes without a second thought, but… - he hesitated briefly, looking at his four birds still lying on the grass, only now beginning to regain their senses – I have to manage on my own. I can’t keep relying on everyone else to solve my problems… Don’t worry Kamui, I’ll make it. I got a feeling Rhadamanthys can help me out.

Kamui nodded in agreement. Gale was right, doing it yourself was the only way to grow. He’d done for years now, and it’d worked out just fine… The birdkeeper would manage too. His heart was in the right place, and that was the most important thing.

- You’re a good man Gale. The way you confronted Goodra… it’s rare to see that kind of maturity in someone who’s just starting out. You have a gift… Before we go our separate ways, let me give you one last bit of advice: don’t let this world change you. Keep being yourself, and you might just be the one to change it. Good luck on your travels.

- Someone told me a similar thing not too long ago. Someone else I’m indebted to, come to think of it… Thank you once again Kamui. Might not mean as much to you as it means to me, but where I come from, we tell everyone to keep their “eyes on the sky”… You’re bound to find what you’re looking for if you do!

The rain was finally letting up. Gale kept going, finding no signs of the two men Kamui’s Golduck had dealt with, but chose not to dwell on it. Some questions weren’t worth asking. He looked at Rhadamanthys' Pokeball, still adjusting to the idea of owning such a powerful creature, a wingless king… But they’d be alright. Gift or no gift, it usually boiled down to doing the right thing… And regardless of his skill, Gale was starting to feel like he was pretty decent at doing the right thing, it seemed. His birds already recovered, they flew above his head, each with a renewed determination to improve – because they never knew when their Trainer, pacifist as he was, would need their help again. They couldn’t afford to fail him a second time.

Kamui resumed his walk towards Salin City. He wasn’t in a hurry; not anymore. He’d spent the last three years of his career running around, eager for achievements… now, he’d had enough. People like Gale Windsor, they were living their Trainer life the right way – taking things as they came, one day at a time. He regretted not doing that before, but maybe there was still time. Time to live, discover and be amazed.

”Eyes on the sky”… heh, you’re really something else, Gale. But I’ve reached the sky already… it’s putting my feet back on the ground that I want now.

The city came into view. The blue-haired man released all six of his friends from the confines of their Balls, the six that had been with him practically his entire life. One step at a time, Kamui, Fuu, Rin, Ka, Zan, Sui and Rai approached the next chapter in their journey of rediscovery.

Last edited by MarbleZone; 06-06-2016 at 01:45 PM.
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Old 06-10-2016, 05:13 AM   #11
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Levin's Chapter 5 - "Vesper"

Yggdra City Port was bustling with activity; Coral Port over at Salin City had nothing on this one. But whereas the capital of Cascadia was a cosmopolitan metropolis, where people of many different cultures mingled seamlessly with the Salin natives, the scenario was vastly different here in Yggdra.

I can pinpoint the locals without any effort at all.

The difference in demeanor, not to mention wardrobe, was striking. Heiml folk were said to be as cold as the weather, and it proved true in this case – without even needing to establish contact. The locals, especially the adults and elders, looked stoic, silent and unapproachable. The only exceptions were the younger generations who, as a product of changing times, looked decidedly more open towards outsiders than their older kin. But either way, Levin wasn’t here to make friends. In a strange way, this place felt rather homely… it felt like he belonged here.

Convenient as it is on occasion, if there’s one thing I can fault the Fizzy Bubbles population for, it’s that they’re excessively nice and friendly. At least here I won’t have trouble finding some personal space. Well… let’s get to business.

It was pleasantly simple to ask around for instructions on how to reach the Altheim Gate of Victory Road; instructions were short, simple and to the point, and not one of the people he approached offered to take him there or help out in any way other than providing said directions. Just the way he liked it.

I could get used to this.

As it turned out, the path towards Victory Road was only a short walk away from Yggdra City. A straightforward grassy route to the East, then the Harald Falls… and at their peak, the Altheim Gate, where he’d have to show the permit Luther Helford got him.

It was a sunny morning, but the air was chilly nonetheless; he’d expected nothing different from the northernmost region of the World. Small puddles of snow, remnants of the previous week’s blizzard, punctuated the otherwise green road ahead. How these blades of grass survived and prospered in such an inhospitable climate was beyond him.

It’s true what they say then, even the grass is stubborn in Heiml.

Halfway across the route, something whistled past Levin’s right ear, startling him and bringing him to a sudden halt. He turned 180º to meet the source of the assault, and that’s when he saw him…

- Vesper.

The green-haired man had the same deranged grin on his face as the first time he’d approached Levin, back at Marble Garden. Accompanying him, like on that day, was his Drapion.

- Would you believe how much they charge for an S.S. Bifrost pass? It’s insane! Gonna make it worth the investment, Sanders?

- You came on the same ship as me? I wasn’t hard to find back in Fizzy Bubbles. You could have saved the money if you’d faced me then.

- But I did! Remember? I pierced two holes in your Fletchling’s wings. Thought I’d wait until you were cocky enough to come here; killing your career now, with your ego at an all-time high, will be that much sweeter. Besides, you already knew we’d run into each other sooner or later, right? Isn’t that why you made that little spectacle against Agnes during the trip?

He saw my battle. Which means he knows about Solair’s evolution… No matter. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

He reached for his belt, grabbing a Pokeball without ever taking his eyes off of Vesper Gant, the “Career Killer”.

- Three on three, like last time. If you want another shot at my dignity, these are my terms.

- Well…. Since you’re all grown-up now, we’ll do it your way. Now, there’s someone I wanna show you; someone who’d have loved to see you grow up like that but you didn’t let him. He’s changed quite a bit since you last saw him.

Vesper’s grin only widened as he tossed a Pokeball of his own, before Levin revealed his first choice. The device snapped open and a creature materialized from within – and the sight of him shook Levin to his very core. He thought he’d be prepared for anything at this point in his life, but nothing could have prepared him for this.

- Crossssss.

A man-sized beetle stood between Levin and Vesper, one the Saffron-native immediately recognized as a Heracross. But one like this, he’d never seen before – the Bug-Type wasn’t its species’ usual blue color, nor the much rarer pink… it was entirely pitch-black. As if its whole body had been charred, as if fire had burned away every last trace of pigment. But even with the drastic changes to its body, Levin could still recognize the specimen. He’d seen the before. He’d travelled alongside it, and that was a connection no Trainer could forget.

Buster?!

- Ohohoh, man, you should see the look on your face right now! It’s priceless!! You can tell, can’t you? It’s your old buddy! Come on, say hello!! What’s that? Oh right, you abandoned him! And see how that turned out!!

Levin couldn’t believe it. There was no doubt about it, the black Heracross was Buster alright… but any trace of his old friend was gone – the cheerful, hyper-excitable friend he once knew had been replaced by a creature whose yellow eyes conveyed nothing more than pain, bitterness and drive for revenge.

Against me?...

How did Buster end up like that? He’d let him go, yes, but he didn’t abandon him – Buster knew that! Once he’d surpassed Ivan, he’d let go of most of his Fighting-Type squadron. The ones who’d shown most promise, namely Buster and Dux, he’d instructed to head North and seek Heiml Elite Four’s Brunhilde, the best Fighting-Type Master in the World. What’d happened along the way? And how did Buster end up in possession of this creep?!

I have knowledge of the events in my data bank. Do you wish to access the memories?

Zion the Metagross. Its knowledge of universal events had been multiplied to a degree of almost omniscience since fusing with Nyx. The Steel-Type was his best bet and finding out what had happened, even if part of him really didn’t want to see any of it.

… Show me.

Images suddenly flashed before his eyes, rolling at high speed, but each burned in Levin’s mind never to be erased. He saw everything: The naïve Heracross filled with hope, setting off on his own to Heiml, eager to beat Dux in the race. He saw Buster holding on for dear life to the side of the S.S. Connor, from Cloud Garden to Cortoza, as an illegal passenger. He saw Buster waiting impatiently for the S.S. Bifrost, and in typical fashion, growing bored of waiting after an hour. He saw him lost in Terraki Village, wandering the desolate land in search of an alternative way to get to Heiml that didn’t involve waiting for the net ship… He saw him witnessing Mt. Fumi’s eruption in the distance with wide-eyed amazement, and forgetting all about Heiml right there and then…

He sensed the power emanating from Mt. Fumi. He went in search of Pokemon to fight…

Zion’s revelations kept coming. Buster stubbornly climbed all the way to the peak of Mt. Fumi, warding off dangerous Flying-Types, defeating the Slugma and Magcargo that rolled down the mountain slopes mid-eruption, and finally reaching the edge of the chimney. He looked down and saw something he couldn’t possibly walk away from: the Lava Pit, Fumi’s makeshift arena where the most powerful wild Fire-Types gathered to test their strength in tournaments ran exclusively by native Pokemon… Levin had been there. After nearly dying from smoke inhalation (being narrowly saved by Qeth in that instance), he’d battled an unbelievably powerful wild Arcanine with Basker, followed by a dishonourable Charizard…

I barely escaped that hellish place. Buster, what did you do?!

The next set of memories was particularly painful. He saw Buter merrily rush down the chimney, reaching the heart of the crater and immediately requesting to take part in the ongoing tournament. The local Fire-Types laughed, and a Charizard – the same one he fought? – agreed almost immediately. It allowed Buster to fight, and not only that: so obviously eager was he to fight, that the dragon proposed he take part in a gauntlet to see how far he’d make it. That offer was like free candy to someone like Buster…

No…

He was forced to watch as Buster narrowly defeated a Magmortar, sustaining severe burns throughout the battle. As soon as the first opponent fell, another took its place, this time a Flareon. Buster managed to beat it too, losing use of his right arm due to a particularly deep burn mid-match. The third opponent… was the Charizard himself. Grinning all the while, the dragon teased Buster with Embers, slashed away from a distance with Air Slashes, intoxicated him with Smoke Screens. The Pokemon crowd roared in approval. Buster, for the first time in his life, was scared. He was crying as the match continued and he found himself unable to carry on, but the pain kept coming. After burning him to a crisp with a Fire Blast, Charizard finally landed on the battlefield next to the barely-conscious Heracross… then picked him up and Seismic Tossed him into the lava surrounding the Arena!

Buster! NO!!

The memories stopped at that point, and Levin was assaulted by a massive migraine. Vesper let out his stomach-turning laugh, realizing Levin had been brought up to speed on most of what happened.

- That was the result of releasing him. Your Heracross lost everything: his innocence, his passion for battling, even his colour. His shell is forever black, like his heart – only revenge fuels him now, against the man who cost him everything. I couldn’t help but take notice when I heard that a near-dead Heracross, burned almost beyond recognition, had washed ashore on Shale Beach… I had to see what kind of incredible Pokemon was strong enough to survive Fumi’s lava and make it out of the volcano alive. When I uncovered the truth of it all, it was icing on the cake! We shared a common goal, so it was easy to see eye to eye… we both want to destroy you!

Levin was shaking. It was all too much to take in at once, and the sight of the black Heracross staring across the field with cold yellow eyes made it even worse. Being confronted with his failure made it all the more unbearable. Overcome with guilt, the words came as nothing more than a whisper…

- Buster, I’m so sorry…

- What was that? He can’t hear you like that. He couldn’t hear you apologize for ruining his life while you keep chasing your dream!

Buster slammed a foot on the ground and huffed. He had enough of talking. Unsettling as it was to have a former friend raring to pound him into the ground, Levin found some strange comfort in Buster’s impatience – the black Heracross didn’t care one bit about Vesper’s taunting; the green-haired man was a means to an end.

You have no more sympathy for him than you do for me, isn’t that right Buster? You just want to fight. It’s the only thing you ever wanted, even before this tragedy happened.

Something else other than despair and guilt began to manifest inside him. A lingering hope? A certainty he knew the real Buster better than Vesper and that, knowing the facts, maybe the Career Killer was wrong in one aspect…

- Buster! I’m truly sorry… I’ll give you the fight you want. But is it really me you have something against?

He attached the Pokeball he’d previously chosen back to his belt. If it was in his power to make amends here, to give Buster what he believed the Heracross really wanted, that was worth a change of plans even in his long-awaited rematch against Vesper Gant. Another choice of Pokemon could make things right… or so he dearly hoped.

- If it’s me you’re after, you found me. But you know I didn’t send you to Mt. Fumi… I never asked you to go there. Please remember, if the pain hasn’t erased those memories completely! Think back to when I let you go…

Buster didn’t seem to be listening. He cracked his knuckles and prepared to fight.

- Damn. So be it! If you won’t listen to what I say, maybe you’ll understand what I do! To battle, Kyzer!!

From the confines of his Fire Ball emerged the Son of Syre, Levin’s Charmeleon. At the sight of the Fire-Type, Buster’s eyes narrowed, painful and rage-inducing memories stirring within.

That’s it. This is the battle you need, isn’t it Buster? No… the battle you and Kyzer need both.

- That one has no secrets to me! I saw everything your Charmeleon could do against Agnes! Come on Heracross, use…

Buster wasn’t listening. Of his own accord, he bolted forward with his massive horn glowing, aiming it at Kyzer like a spear. However, his superior battle senses allowed the Charmeleon to dodge the Horn Attack effortlessly, and Levin wasn’t going to let that chance slip away.

- Kyzer, Slash!

A sword-like claw collided with Buster’s black armor, and bounced back harmlessly to Kyzer’s surprise. It seemed the lava did more than burn the Heracross to near-death… it rendered his shell extremely hard! Levin was obviously surprised, but not discouraged – quite the opposite, in fact!

- Heh. Looks like you’re in for one hell of a fight Kyzer! Ready to do this?!

The Trainer’s passion was shared by the still-young Fire-Type, who grinned at the apparent setback. Buster, who would once have shared the excitement tenfold, didn’t much care for Levin’s or Kyzer’s resolve anymore – bent on revenge, he turned around and pummelled the Charmeleon with a seemingly never-ending barrage of Arm Thrusts that forced Kyzer to retreat to catch a breather!

- Heracross, stop and listen to me! I can give you the sweet revenge you crave, but you have to do as I say!! Now use…

Buster suddenly drove the side of his arm into Kyzer’s neck with a vicious Brick Break; his attacks became stronger and faster as the fight went on And Levin’s partner could no longer rely exclusively on his instincts to evade… And as he struggled to recover from the powerful hit, Buster drove his entire frame right into him, running Kyzer over with a Take Down that hit like a truck!

Not good. He might’ve changed his demeanour drastically, but Buster’s fighting style is exactly the same as before: relentless… At this pace Kyzer won’t be able to catch his breath, let alone fight back!

The drake was still reeling and already the black Heracross was back on the offensive. All Kyzer could do was to instinctively brace himself, but Buster saw through the only opening in his makeshift defense and struck with an upwards Aerial Ace, then followed with a Night Slash from his horn when Kyzer’s guard broke! The Charmeleon was sent tumbling to the floor, seriously injured and barely conscious from the monstrous beatdown…

- Th-that’s it Heracross! Now do it! Get your revenge on that filthy Fire-Type! Unleash your frustrations and heal those scars! Cripple that Charmeleon, make him feel as much pain as you felt at the hands of his species!

Buster’s horn took on an emerald glow, and it grew even larger than usual. The black beetle stood over his fallen foe, ready to deliver a final Megahorn that would make sure Kyzer could never stand up again… But he hesitated.

- You won’t do it, will you Buster? You’ve never met Kyzer before, but you know me, you know he’s my friend. What’s it going to be then? Do you have the guts to our old friendship behind? If so do it! Strike Kyzer! He’s at your mercy.

- Sanders?! What are you planning, where are you going with this?!

Fuming at Levin’s defiance, Buster’s hesitation was gone. He raised his giant horn…

- Kyzer! Will you let him beat you? An insect? I thought you made a vow after the battle with Starmie! All talk after all?!

This is the moment! Kyzer, awaken! You have to, or else…

With Levin’s taunting, the humiliation coming from his Trainer’s words, something triggered inside the fallen drake. He glared up at his foe, one of the most formidable he ever faced, true… but as Levin said, still an insect! Ajax would never bow to Buster, and neither would his own father Syre… And he was better than both of them!!

Flames suddenly erupted all around Kyzer, taking the shape of a large sphere that engulfed and protected him! A ball of fire that caused Buster’s Megahorn to bounce back like it was nothing… a perfect Fire Shield!

- Ugh, one of those moves?!

Levin forgot Vesper hadn’t made a name for himself in Fizzy Bubbles, hence why some moves were foreign to him. Fire Shield was one such move, a life-saving technique he’d filed to equate. Buster stepped back, his horn hurting from the scorching flames, but Kyzer’s shield persisted. In fact, it was all that could be seen – the Charmeleon remained inside the flame sphere, out of anyone’s sight. And then, suddenly, rays of light erupted from within the Fire Shield as it began to rise from the ground! The shine became progressively more intense, the orb of blazes grew, and a roar emanated from its depths…

- No… no way!

- You and Buster aren’t the only ones chasing something! Kyzer… he’s chased something his entire life as well! To surpass his father, his rival, and to establish himself as the strongest dragon in the entire world! You are to him the same thing you are to me: a stepping stone!

With a violent blast, the Fire Shield exploded, and Kyzer reappeared from within – but no longer a Charmeleon. A pair of magnificent wings protruded from his back, flapping with enough force to keep him airborne without effort; his tail flame doubled in size, not to mention his entire body – he now towered over Levin. He roared in triumph, in his new magnificent form: a mighty !

Buster was briefly surprised and then, as if possessed by a berserker aura, yelled loudly and lunged like a madman. The sight of Charizard must have triggered another torrent of memories, images of the one responsible for his tragedy. The true responsible.

- Kyzer, it’s time we show him!

Despite the dragon’s newfound flight ability, Buster’s sheer drive to take him down is enough to propel the black Heracross high enough with a single jump that he can hit Kyzer! Even so, the Charizard sees him coming with reckless abandon, and with a single flap of his orange wings unleashes a flurry of wind blades, the Air Slash hitting Buster mid-jump and forcing him back down to the ground!

- Damnit you filthy dung beetle, will you stop and listen?! You’re getting your ass handed to you! So stop flailing about like an idiot and LISTEN TO ME!

- Kyzer, Flamethrower!

The jet of flames washed over Buster, his flesh being burned by a Charizard once again, just like before… he tried to shield himself from the inferno he couldn’t avoid, and once again proved his unparalleled resilience by enduring the hit! But Vesper had enough, seeing Buster so completely outmatched…

- I didn’t come all this way after Levin so you’d screw it up! Heracross, return!!
-
Those words, however, were the final drop for Buster. For the first time since the start of the match, he diverted his gaze from Kyzer, and turned to Vesper with a glare that conveyed pure disgust. At the sight of the Career Killer with his Pokeball in hand, ready to recall him, the black beetle retaliated with a lone Pin Missile that completely shattered the capture device!

- Wh…what are you doing?!
Without paying Vesper any further attention, Buster shifted his full attention back to Kyzer, hell-bent on finishing what he’d started. And for the first time since their fateful reunion, Levin saw a grin on Heracross’s face – the same grin of excitement he wore in his youth whenever he was faced with insurmountable odds. Though forcefully matured and with most of his old contagious joy stripped from him, deep down, he was still a lover of battle above all else, and Kyzer the ultimate test to his growth.

- You’re starting to see who the real enemy is, right Buster? Is it me you wanna punish? I admit to my share of the blame: you were young, I should’ve been more careful, I should’ve insisted you stick with Dux! But I don’t regret sending you off to find Brunhilde. DO you resent me that much? Do you really blame me for what happened at Mt. Fumi?!

Buster seemed to ponder on those words, like he’d never actually given the matter much thought. All this time he’d been determined to avenge his misfortune… but who was he to blame?

- Brunhilde could have made you a stronger fighter than anyone else. Perhaps telling you to go meet her too soon was my fault, but it was a decision we made together. And Kyzer? What is he to be blamed for? Because he looks like the Pokemon who nearly killed you? If so… good. Use those memories, that anger, that pain and try your very best to beat him! But look inside, look real deep, and tell me… who’s really responsible for the Black Heracross who was once my Buster?

Kyzer landed next to Levin, understanding his foe needed a moment for himself before their battle could resume. Levin couldn’t help but compare that kind of maturity to the one Crix, the Electivire he once owned, always displayed – a true testament to the Fire-Type’s growth.
Buster stopped, looked at his own hands, then shook his head in understanding. Levin… was right. The one to blame for his charred skin was the Charizard from Mt. Fumi, but the one responsible for the tragedy as a whole… was himself. He’d been reckless, disobedient, overconfident. And his hot-headedness, his foolish sense of juvenile omnipotence brought him here – no longer happy, excitable and carefree… but a bitter, scarred Heracross who would never look like any other of his kind. He lost his innocence and his cheerfulness… but here he was, reunited with the first human to care for him – and that Trainer was giving him a chance to surpass himself, to prove a point. A chance to measure himself against a foe he never got to beat… Levin was offering him both wisdom and redemption.

- Come on Buster, show me what you got. Kyzer’s not going to back down, especially now that he’s unlocked his hidden potential!

Vesper, meanwhile, stood livid, silent, clenching his fists. That insolent bug no longer answered to him, but maybe the beetle could still win him the first round…

The black Heracross opened his wings, hunched over and unleashed a barrage of Pin Missiles akin to a rain of arrows. Kyzer, naturally, took to the skies immediately and soared above the flurry of projectiles before they even began to descend. But as soon as he reached his peak, Buster answered by hurling a string of heavy boulders in quick succession, catching the Charizard with a powerful Rock Blast! Hit after hit, Kyzer’s wings began to falter and he lost altitude, but despite the highly effective move, the dragon remained airborne!

[i]The old Buster would never plan that far ahead, nor would he even think of going for a ranged approach. He matured, painfully forced as it was…[/b]

Kyzer took a while to recover from the hit – Rock had always been a terrible element for him, but now it hurt a hell of a lot more. Still, a small price to pay for the power that came with this new form! Roaring loudly, he prepared a comeback of his own, with Levin at the helm. Meanwhile, seeing his strategy bear fruit prompted Buster to fire off another Rock Blast, one Kyzer and Levin both welcomed with open arms!

- Time to test your strength! Power through with Dragon Rush!

That was his move. The dragon’s blood in his veins came from both Syre and Vesta, and the technique had been with him since birth. Ironically, it was also the move that had decided the face-off between his parents, before they’d agreed to stay with one another
The Charizard’s body was enveloped by an iridescent aura, and Kyzer charged. As he picked up speed, the aura took on the shape of a huge dragon head with its mouth agape, and each boulder fired by Buster disintegrated instantly upon approach. The Bug-Type quickly understood the sheer amount of energy headed straight for him, but he wouldn’t back down! He had the utmost confidence in his strength!

Show me how you measure up after all these years, Buster!

The black horn gathered energy and grew in size once again, glowing green and signalling for Megahorn; Buster focused as much strength as possible in his legs and jumped forward to meet Kyzer, dragon armor versus beetle spear! Both Pokemon collided in mid-air, followed by the sudden release of an immense amount of energy that almost knocked Levin and Vesper off their feet! An explosion of light illuminated the grassy route, and when the smoke cleared… both Pokemon were still standing!

- Incredible. Both of you, you’re amazing… Don’t you think so, Vesper?

The green-haired man didn’t answer, but it was obvious he noted the provocation.

- Kyzer, you’re not done yet, are you? Let’s kick things up a notch: Dragon Dance!

Breathing heavily but raring to go, the Charizard took flight once more, spinning in the air as he gained height. By the time he stopped, he was shrouded in a powerful red mantle of dragon energy, feeling even stronger and faster than before. Buster, meanwhile, equally tired, looked to lure Kyzer back into range – bringing his palms forward, he shot Rock Blast after Rock Blast to force the dragon to either land or approach. Kyzer, welcoming the challenge, chose the latter – but the speed at which he closed distance was incredible, much faster than anything Buster could have anticipated! The dragon dodged each boulder with frightening agility, and when the moment came, Levin issued the critical command:

- Flare Blitz!!

Red flames engulfed Kyzer, then turned blue due to sheer heat. The Charizard, now resembling a blazing meteor, crashed into the black Heracross one more time; the ensuing explosion nearly set fire to the surrounding grass, and a crater formed at the point of impact. At its center, Buster was lying unconscious, while Kyzer towered over him, hurting all over but triumphant in the end!

- That was incredible… both of you! Kyzer, look at how much you’ve grown… I’m so proud of you, and so would Syre be if he saw you now! Congratulations buddy!

Aware of the significance of his achievement, Kyzer let out a happy growl, then helped Buster back to his feet. Levin smiled and reached for a Space Ball, then called out Ciel, his beloved Clefable.

- Please Ciel, tend to Buster’s wounds will you? He could use your special skills. Kyzer, return for now. You did great buddy.

Levin recalled the Charizard back into his Fire Ball and then, turning to Vesper, he grinned.

- One down. That was a clever trick you pulled, but it wasn’t good enough. You forgot two things: having a common enemy isn’t enough to make a friend, and I was never Buster’s true enemy to begin with. Now… my turn!

Time for someone who deserves a bit of spotlight.

- To battle, Lumi!

This time, it was Levin’s Ampharos who emerged. The happy-go-lucky Electric-Type clapped hands in excitement, while Vesper seemed to have made up his mind as well.

- You had your fun, and I admit, you’ve gotten better since last time. I think you deserve a taste of real power this time around! Drapion, go get ‘im!

The massive purple scorpion that had been standing behind Vesper the whole time stepped forward, ominously snapping its pincers at Lumi. This was one of Vesper’s ace Pokemon, alongside his Mega Beedrill; the green-haired man had denied Levin the chance to fight Drapion last time, but it was obvious the Career Killer understood he was no longer facing the same man.

- Lumi, heads up. We don’t know what Drapion’s capable of, so stay focused.

- Sound advice! But too little too late; your Ampharos is as good as Poffins for my Drapion! Hone Claws!

- Don’t let it! Thunder Wave!

Levin’s partner quickly released a circular shockwave that caused Drapion’s muscles to spasm randomly, but the venomous creature still managed to sharpen its deadly claws. Lumi waited for further instructions, whereas the Drapion didn’t need any sort of command – he Dug his way underground, vanishing from sight, without Vesper’s input. But judging by the young man’s grin, that was exactly what he wanted his Pokemon to do…

- Damn it. Their bond is at the highest possible level… they barely need to talk. Lumi, watch out! Anything can happ…

The Ogre Scorp suddnely emerged directly beneath Lumi, striking him with a vicious upward strike that felled the Ampharos! Drapion then pinned Lumi down to the ground, an image reminiscent of what Mega Beedrill had done to Solair all that time ago…

No… not again!

- THUNDER!!

Levin’s desperation got through to Lumi, who instantly released a massive pillar of lightning at point blank range, forcefully pushing the foe away from him with the sheer intensity of the discharge! Drapion tumbled to the floor, but quickly regained its footing, and its eyes were filled with revenge…

- Focus Drapion! He’s just a sheep, you’re the perfect hunter! So do what you always do and go in for the kill!

It was as if they had a language of their own. Levin himself had only managed that kind of ultimate bond with Hazo and Eld, and it was unsettling to see another Trainer put that connection to use just as effectively as him. After all, despite having matured immensely over the last four years, Levin Sanders was still an extremely proud man.
The Poison-Type spat out a blob of purple ooze, which was immediately absorbed by Lumi’s body on contact. Levin identified the move immediately, made all the more obvious by Lumi’s nauseated look as the Toxic substances entered his bloodstream…

Vlad used to do the same thing… There’s only one move that makes sense as a follow-up. We have to avoid it no matter what!

- Now Drapion!

- Lumi watch out, dodge his Venoshock!

The Ampharos leapt up and instinctively jumped to the side, expecting the ranged move that would no doubt destroy him in his poisoned state. But no Venoshock came… Instead Drapion jumped in the same direction as Lumi and, having closed distances again, hit a vicious Night Slash boosted by the previous Hone Claws!

What?!

Levin realized he was played. Vesper had toyed with his expectations, his experience raising a Drapion of his own, and used those mind games to the absolute fullest… Lumi fell to the ground, clutching his torso in pain, and once again the Ogre Scorp towered over him with a wicked grin…

- Now since I don’t want to disappoint you, I’ll use the move you thought you’d guessed. That way everyone wins! Just, some more than others. Drapion, finish him with Venoshock!

The violet orb formed in the Poison-Type’s gaping maw… but then vanished. Drapion stopped moving, muscles locking up at the absolute best possible moment – Thunder Wave finally paid off!

- Lumi, do it now! Power Gem!

The iridescent beam hit Drapion square in the chest, forcing a screech of pain from the predator. But even with the impressive power behind the blast, Vesper’s partner didn’t fall, demonstrating incredible endurance! Irate, Drapion charged up again, and this time unleashed the Venoshock orb unimpeded – the sphere collided against the still-floored Lumi, reacted with the toxins in his body and the chain reaction triggered a massive explosion!

- Lumi!!!

The Ampharos collapsed, eyes shut and completely unconscious once the dust settled. Drapion stood over his victim, eyes glimmering with malice, while Vesper laughed at the devastation he wrought. The same demonic laughter Levin heard when Solair’s wings were pierced…

Solair… No. Not yet. Your battle is a different one!

- Lumi, you did great. Time to rest.

It’d been so long that it almost felt new to him – the taste of defeat. Even against Agnes, the best she’d managed was a draw during their match… Vesper was a top-notch Trainer, that much was obvious. And he realized it now: if he’d faced Drapion when they first met, it could have single handedly defeated all three of his Pokemon. Lumi had managed to weaken the scorpion considerably though; it was a valiant effort, Ryker would’ve been proud. Now, it was time for his genius to finish the job.

- To battle, Kyzer!

For the second time in the match, the Fire-Type emerged. Only this time, it was as an imposing Charizard from the start! Although still feeling the effects of the battle with Buster, Kyzer understood Levin’s choice. He’d decided how his rematch with Vesper would end months ago, and that meant he would save Solair for last. All the better, Kyzer thought – he got to test himself a second time, and that was what he lived for!

- That one again? Drapion will make short work of your weakened lizard. Hunt him down!

- Kyzer is no longer a lizard. He’s a dragon! Show them what you got!

At the familiar command, Vesper’s “perfect hunter” released another orb of Toxic to make way for the same strategy that floored Lumi. But Kyzer’s instincts were superior in every way, and he saw the move coming a mile away. Spreading his massive wings, the dragon took flight, evading Toxic, then locked eyes with his target down below as he prepared to retaliate!

- Flamethrower!!

The pillar of fire crashed down upon the scorpion, scorching Drapion severely. But Kyzer wasn’t done! A dragon’s aura enveloped him, burning a fierce blue, making him both stronger and faster – it was only the second time he tapped into Dragon Dance, and the feeling of power that came with it was exhilarating! The Charizard dove down like a meteor, eyes locked on the stunned Drapion who was still reeling from the Flamethrower…

Dragon Claw…

In perfect synchrony with Levin’s unspoken thought, Kyzer channelled a surge of draconic energy into his right claw. Just then, the Key Stone in his glove vibrated and glimmered briefly…

What is this?... Kyzer… he’s reading my thoughts? Or does this mean our bond has reached its peak?

- Damnit… Drapion, Night Slash!

Kyzer’s and Drapion’s claws clashed with one another, one imbued with dragon power, the other darkness. The moves looked to cancel each other out, but the Charizard’s diving momentum and Dragon Dance won him the standoff, and he slashed his way past the foe, landing some feet away from him as Drapion fell to the ground… unconscious!

We did it! My connection with Kyzer… it’s just as strong now as the one I have with Hazo. Just as strong as that of Vesper and Drapion… Is that why the Key Stone reacted?

Vesper looked on in disbelief. Clearly, he didn’t expect his ace to fall… Saying nothing, he recalled Drapion, then reached for the third and last Pokemon of the match. Levin could easily guess who that was.

- Kyzer, you were amazing. But you already fought twice, and you know what I have to do now! Please understand.

With the Charizard’s approving nod, Levin recalled Kyzer back inside his Fire Ball. Then, fter taking a deep breath, he reached for the Safari Ball he’d been saving for last, and called upon the Pokemon within.

- To battle… Solair!

Embers filled the air when the Talonflame took flight, emerging from his ball with a powerful cry. This was it for Solair, the culmination of a life’s journey. Vesper didn’t laugh this time, but he was smiling faintly – not the nauseating grin he so often displayed, but the sincere smile of someone who understood what this moment meant to his rival. For the first time since he’d assumed the mantle of Career Killer, Vesper Gant was enjoying himself for a reason other than humiliating his opponent.

- Your turn, Beedrill!

The giant wasp appeared, Beedrillite strapped to one of its arm-stings. Solair’s eyes burned with rage at the sight of the creature who’d robbed him of dignity back when he was still a Fletchling, the heat of his fury setting his feathers further ablaze.

- We both want something out of this battle, right Levin? You want to get your revenge, and I want to end your career.

- Come and get it. This is the battle of Solair’s life, and you can’t handle what he can bring!

Vesper’s Key Stone, embedded in a wristband, resonated with Beedrillite. The wasp grew in size, its stings becoming three spears as it transformed into its terrifying Mega form, the pinnacle of its evolution. Solair watched in eager anticipation as his true enemy appeared, the one he waited years to face…

- Beedrill, put him down! Poison Jab!

The Bug-Type’s enhanced aerodynamic shape conferred it incredible speed; in the blink of an eye, Mega Beedrill bolted forward, closing distance and going into melee range! Its lance-like stinger flew towards Solair’s torso, an attack most Pokemon wouldn’t be fast enough to even see, let alone dodge… but the Talonflame shifted to the side at the last possible second, pulling out an Acrobatic roll and retaliating almost instantly, hitting Beedrill in the abdomen!

- Wh… what?! How did it?...

- Solair and I shared a lifetime worth of experiences since we last met, Vesper. We even traversed the Dream World together – and that’s exacty what allows my partner to keep up with yours… even surpass it! Solair, Tailwind!

The gust of air started blowing, carrying the hawk into even higher altitudes, further increasing his already incredible speed. That was what this battle boiled down to, after all – the fastest Pokemon would prevail.

- Now go for Flame Charge!!

- We can match their speed! Dodge and counter with his own trick!

Solair’s body became enveloped in fire but just as he was about to make contact with Beedrill after a deadly dive, the Bug-Type rolled to the side in an almost perfect copy of the Talonflame’s earlier Acrobatics, then hit the falcon in his right wing! The sudden dodge and hit caused Solair to lose balance and keep going until he crashed to the floor!

- Solair, get up! Don’t let him cl…

It was too late. In a flash, Mega Beedrill was hovering over the floored Talonflame, stingers aimed at him in a re-enactment of the scene from all that time ago…

No… I didn’t come all this way, train all those months and even leave Fizzy Bubbles behind only to have this happen again! I refuse!!

Solair’s eyes narrowed as the memory of his pierced wings resurfaced. Seeing Mega Beedrill’s spear-arms aimed at him like they were when they first fought, ready to rend his wings apart a second time, raised the hawk’s fighting instincts to an unprecedented level – suddenly enveloped in a brilliant aura, Solair suddenly propelled himself forward, taking flight faster than ever, and rammed into Beedrill’s torso with a full-power Brave Bird before the wasp could react!!

- That’s it Solair! Keep going up, then drop down with another Brave Bird to put it away!

- Beedrill, Double Team!!

Solair’s mid-air turn paved the way for a second Brave Bird, the Talonflame resembling a blue comet as he plunged from the sky. However, Mega Beedrill was quick to recover from the first blow, and immediately produced seven shadow clones as a last-means defense! Confused by the sudden multiplication of targets, Solair chose one at random, missing entirely while the copy faded into nothingness…

- Now, strike back! Poison Jab!!

With the Talonflame finally stunned long enough to be hit, Vesper’s partner bolted forward like yellow lightning, and using its perfected Adaptability drove one of its massive stingers into Solair’s back!! Levin watched as his friend began to lose altitude, severely injured by the hit…

- Solair, hang in there buddy! You’re stronger and faster than any other Talonflame out there! And you’re damn sure better than any Beedrill! So pull yourself together and claim your revenge!!

Levin’s words got through to Solair. His Trainer was right… he trained harder than anyone else over the last years, healed his Wings and evolved them to be as powerful and quick as a Gale itself! There was no way he could allow vengeance to slip through his feathers… he could feel it, he was one hit away! One clean, direct hit. That Poison Jab… was nothing!

Suddenly, Solair erupted in a burst of flames, and just as he was about to hit the floor, swerved upwards and took flight once more. He kept going higher and higher, until he soared above all of the Mega Beedrill clones, then unleashed a violent flaming explosion, catching all of them in an Overheat wave! The clones vanished, but Vesper’s partner picked up speed and evaded the brunt of the move by flying close to the ground and out of range… or so it thought.

- Looks like the tables have turned Vesper! Solair, time to hunt him down!

- You think we’re running away?! Beedrill, meet him up there and put that bird out of his misery with a Fell Stinger! Then that Charizard will be easy pickings!!

Dutifully, the Mega Evolved wasp took a sharp turn upwards and gained even more speed, this time turning its largest stinger toward Solair to drop him for good. Still enveloped in blazes, the Talonflame stared at the incoming opponent, all trace of fear or apprehension long gone. All Levin needed to do was say the word, issue one last command…

- Solair, Flare Blitz!!

Tailwind still blowing, Flame Charge still loosening his wings, the firebird swooped down, welcoming the order with all his heart. One clean, direct hit… Like a meteorite ablaze he went, faster and faster, a red blur in the sky in collision course with a yellow one… The two forces clashed in mid-air, and the ensuing blast charred what little grass remained untouched by the previous battles. Embers rained down on the entire route, burning like tiny pieces of live coal on contact with Levin’s and Vesper’s skins. One Pokemon dropped to the ground, unconscious, while the other remained airborne…

- It… can’t be…

A flash of light later, and the creature on the ground reverted to its base form – Vesper’s Beedrill was unconscious, parts of his wings burned to cinder. This time around, it was the Bug-Type who’d be unable to fly for quite a while.

Solair landed on Levin’s shoulder, breathing heavily and feeling light-headed, on the brink of fainting. But despite how he felt physically, the Talonflame was, for the first time since he was a tiny Fletchling, at peace with himself. He’d done it – he’d avenged his earlier loss and vanquished the monster who’d crippled him!

- Congratulations Solair, you finally made it! You beat Beedrill, and we beat Vesper together…

While Solair was ecstatic, for Levin this was a bittersweet moment. He knew what would happen once he achieved this victory, once the Talonflame fulfilled his life’s mission…

- Are you happy now?! Go ahead, challenge the Heiml League… one of these Nords will kill your career instead. You’re way in over your head if you think you got a chance in this region!

Vesper Gant recalled his fallen Beedrill, clearly bitter about his loss, 2-0 no less. His last furious gaze was not directed towards Levin though… but to Buster, who was only now showing signs of recovery thanks to Ciel’s ministrations. If the black Heracross minded the glare in any way, he did not show it, which only furthered irritated Vesper. He called out a Pokemon from his belt, a large Noivern, and jumped on its back. The black dragon carried him away, presumably back to Fizzy Bubbles, though it didn’t matter to Levin in the slightest… the only thing important right now was that he’d vanquished his long-time rival!

- I finally did it… Solair, how do you feel?

Although exhausted, the hawk let out a triumphant cry. At long last, it was all over…

- Yes… it’s over. In more than one way, isn’t that right?

Solair knew what Levin meant: the agreement they’d reached after they had met that boy from Violet City. Levin saw something special in the aspiring birdkeeper, and so did Solair – a heart of gold, and a unique talent that would only be made manifest with time…

- He knows more about tending to birds from studying alone than I ever will with years of field experience. And you sensed it too, didn’t you? The same burning desire for justice and righteousness that you’ve always carried. That’s why you took an interest in Gale. Well buddy… there’s nothing holding you back now. You conquered your ghosts admirably.

The Talonflame’s expression was a mix of relief and uncertainty, but deep down he knew what was best for him. So did Levin. And now that he’d broken free of the last remaining shackle, it was time to pursue true happiness… happiness that both he and Levin believed was to be found in Gale’s care.

- I promise I’ll see you again. I also have some long-term plans of my own… life doesn’t end after I win the League!

With that he winked and grinned at Solair, who in turn wondered what his Trainer meant but couldn’t help feeling happier somehow. With that, he pecked Levin’s ear lightly, then spread his wings and took flight.

- Safe travel Solair… I can’t wait to see you again and what Gale helps you become! This isn’t “goodbye”, it’s just ” see you later”! And buddy… it was a privilege to journey with you, ever since we met in the Friend Safari with Chantelle.

He bowed to the firebird, who fought back tears as he did the same. And with that, Solair took to the skies… and disappeared in a trail of embers.

Gale… you better do a hell of a job raising Solair. Even if you find all those Legendary Birds you’re after, you’ll never meet another Pokemon like that Talonflame in your life!

As he kept his “eyes on the sky”, something nudged at his right arm. He looked to the side to find Buster’s yellow eyes staring back at him, the black beetle now fully restored thanks to Ciel. The Heracross held out a hand, his expression showing no trace of the once jovial and excitable fighter, but only regret and sadness.

The old Buster’s really gone… Or at least, the happiness inside him.

Buster’s hand remained outstretched. Levin took a while to understand the gesture for what it was: an apology. Against all reason, it was the shattered Heracross who asked the human who abandoned him for forgiveness…

- B-Buster… this wasn’t your fault. If anything, I’m responsible for letting you go when you were still so young! I should’ve guessed you’d want to explore, it was stupid of me…

Suddenly, Buster hugged Levin and began to cry. Cut short in his apology, the Saffron-native could do little but pat the Heracross in the arm, probably the least effective measure of reassurance in history. But there he was, trying to comfort the black beetle overrun with guilt for blaming his former Trainer for his misfortune…

- I… I can’t give you back what you lost. The innocence, the sense of wonder, the eagerness to live. But maybe I can make it up to you in some other way? Buster, if you’d like…

He’s hurt and lonely. It’s the right thing to do.

- … if you’d like, you could join me again. Help me take on the Heiml League, maybe revive your passion for battling at the same time! I’d like to make things right for you again… what do you say buddy? Will you give me another chance?

For a brief moment, Buster’s eyes glimmered with the passion of old. He fought back tears and nodded vehemently, tightening the hug as he did. Levin smiled, struggling with tears of his own, then showed Buster a new Pokeball to replace the one he’d shattered during the fight.

- Thank you Buster. I swear I’ll do my very best to heal you, at least in some way… I want you to be happy again! Here… your new home, buddy. Welcome back to the family.
A gentle tap pulled the black Heracross inside the vacant Ball, which immediately locked up without resistance. Ciel smiled warmly at the reunion; the Clefable was naturally drawn to this kind of beautiful moments…

- Thank you for helping dear. It was a big day… Kyzer evolved, Solair left, Buster returned, Vesper was beaten… Nothing left to do but head for the Altheim Gate and brave the Victory Road.

He called Ciel back inside her Space Ball and looked to the distance, to the massive Harald Falls at the end of the route. Imposing and overpowering as they looked, a natural wonder in their own right, it was no surprise they served as the last obstacle before Victory Road – no newbie with poorly trained Pokemon should be able to climb them; fortunately Levin could rely on several partners to carry him through – Eld, Qeth, Kyzer or Nylus could all carry him to the Altheim Gate safely, another mark of his Ace Trainer status.

It’s time. Finally, I’ll walk the King’s Road and come out as Champion! Wait for me, Gottfried…
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Old 10-31-2016, 07:59 AM   #12
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Levin's Chapter 6 - "Borg"

- Dark Pulse!

- Baroque, Crush Claw to counter!

The Krookodile in front of Levin and his Rhyperior released a jet-black stream of energy, but Baroque easily repelled the blast with his empowered right arm, causing the shadows to disperse on contact with his Crush Claw. The opposing Ace Trainer watched in shock, astonished at the difference in power between his last remaining Pokemon and Levin’s first…

- Put them away… Rock Wrecker!

The giant boulder materialized between the Rhyperior’s arm-cannons and was shot forward with tremendous force; it collided against Krookodile and exploded on contact, the sheer power of the impact knocking the Dark-Type out cold!

- And that’s game. Thanks for the match!

Levin recalled Baroque into his Rock Ball and approached the defeated Trainer for a handshake. Looking dejected at first, but seeming to quickly digest the loss, the young man in red coat held out his hand in return, smiling.

- That Rhyperior… damn it man, it’s a beast! You’re really something, even if you’re a foreigner. I’ll be the first to admit, we… we’re not very welcoming to outsiders in Heiml. But you’re really something else!

Compliments had always been hard to come by throughout his travels. Admittedly, the main reason for that probably stemmed from Levin’s own attitude in his early years of adventuring… That made every bit of praise feel special, all the more so in a land renowned for being inhospitable to immigrants from the South.
He’d now been travelling the caves of Victory Road for well over half a day. The climbing of Harald Falls had been no problem for Nylus, and the documents provided by Luther had proven every bit as authentic as Levin’d hoped. The authorities had ordered the Altheim Gate opened mere minutes after reading over the permit, and as a result he was able to enter Victory Road without a hiccup, despite everyone’s curious stares as he crossed the Gate without a single Gym Badge.

- Hey, are you guys from the South familiar with the legendary creature of our Victory Road?

Levin’s reminiscing was cut short by the other Trainer’s intriguing question. Admittedly, he had not, which annoyed him a little… Heiml should have no secrets for him after all the research he’d done about the region.

- Can’t say I have. But I’d be lying if I said you didn’t peak my interest, so…

- Thought it might! But here’s the thing… it peaked the interest of a lot of Trainers. All of them awesome Trainers in their own right. Borg destroyed them all, crushed their spirits so badly they didn’t travel the Victory Road again until several years later.

- “Borg” is its name? What are we talking about here, what else can you tell me?

- Every Trainer in Heiml has heard of Borg. He’s a millennia-old Pokemon residing in the deepest cave of the Victory Road; he’s lived here since before Trainers even started giving a name to this place… Most choose to outright ignore him and keep heading straight for the League. Look, I wouldn’t even tell you about it if you were anybody else, but what if…

- “What if” indeed. Borg might have seen all manner of Heiml’s finest Trainers… but I’m not from Heiml, and I’m not one to ignore this sort of challenge. I want to meet this legendary creature.

- Figured you would… it’s not far from where we are, actually. The path to his cave is fairly well-known, but most prefer to walk right past it. If you’re absolutely sure…

- I’m sure.

Levin smiled and followed the other Ace Trainer. After a few minutes of walking and a series of left and right turns, they stopped near a small hole on the cave wall – rough around the edge and completely inconspicuous, no doubt a natural tunnel rather than a man-made one.

- I never ventured in myself. But it’s supposed to go down for quite a long distance before you reach Borg’s resting place… It was an honor to fight you Levin Sanders. You’re stronger than many others I’ve met, Heiml natives or not. Although… something about you feels familiar, homely if you will. Part of you belongs to Heiml, doesn’t it? Well, go ahead if you’re confident in your abilities. But don’t expect to walk out victorious – the only things to be gained by engaging that creature are experience and humility. Good luck my friend!

With that, the Trainer left, resuming his own journey across Victory Road. Levin was left to ponder on his words – yes, he’d been right, his mother was indeed from Heiml. That was the reason for Levin’s blonde hair and light-blue eyes, despite being born in Saffron.
And here he was now, faced with an interesting choice – proceed along the Road towards the ever-closer Heiml Pokemon League, or take the detour in front of him to meet this phenomenal creature, the bane of so many top-notch Trainers in the region.

A millennia-old wild Pokemon who can defeat Trainers worthy of 8 Gym Badges… Heh, like I’m gonna let this pass!

He stepped forward with unwavering determination, passing through the narrow hole on the wall and down the dark tunnel ahead. Much like the other Trainer had said, the path went downwards and straight ahead for what felt like – and could very well have been – hours, until finally he arrived at another opening. Beyond was a wide clearing, a sprawling cavern with a huge lake in the middle… and at the center of the lake, a wide rock platform where a Pokemon stood still, either resting or meditating. A Pokemon that should, by all accounts, have been dead long ago with all others of its kind, a statistical impossibility as far as the historical survival of species went.

As if sensing Levin’s presence, the creature opened its eyes and stood up. Even in comparison with the few recorded specimens, this was a large one, and fearsome-looking as well. And although it was the first time meeting a Pokemon like this, the Saffron-native immediately identified it: a !

So this is Borg…

So accustomed was the Carracosta to the challenges of boisterous humans that Borg immediately dove into the lake and soon emerged on the rocky shore, standing directly in front of Levin with a defiant look; he knew what the Ace Trainer wanted, and was seemingly all in favour of indulging him.

- Borg… I’ve heard great things about you. All of Heiml knows who you are, but I come from another land. And I’m here to do what this region’s Trainers can’t!

If the Carracosta was in any way incensed by Levin’s defiance, it didn’t convey it in the slightest. But the message was received and acknowledged, as Borg beat its fins against its chest and assumed a battle stance… It accepted Levin’s challenge!

Here we go… time to test the legend!

His choice was made from the start. Tossing a Pokeball in the air, he called out his red warrior, Sai the Scizor. The Bug-Type was quick to assess the situation, especially because Levin would never bother him unless he needed him for a battle – the only thing that usually changed was their opponent, who in this case was a particularly tough-looking one… much to Sai’s delight. His pincers snapped loudly, and he too assumed his preferred stance.

- Sai, slow and steady for now. Iron Defense until we see what he can do.

The Scizor had never been disobedient, upholding a personal sense of honor that prevented him for misbehaving to that extent. But he also possessed a unique mentality when it came to battling, which often conflicted with Levin’s philosophies on the matter. Sai would much rather lay waste to a foe as fast as possible rather than wait around to test their strength – his opinion being that only enemies strong enough to withstand his initial strike would be worth fighting. Still, Levin was aiming for the title of Champion, and he had his merits; Sai wouldn’t insult his Trainer by going against his instructions at such a critical phase of his career.

The red metal that covered him (an armor he once despised, but came to embrace as a valuable asset overtime once he was strong enough to offset its extra weight) hardened progressively, and just in time too: quicker than any creature of its size should be able to move, Borg closed in on Sai like a bullet made of water with a blindingly fast Aqua Jet, ramming into Sai and pushing him back several steps! The mantis kept his balance though, and now that Borg had made his move, both Sai and Levin knew exactly what to do…

- Now, Metal Claw!

The strike came swift and fierce, Sai’s iron pincer driven into Borg’s side and this time, it was the Carracosta who was pushed back by the move’s impact.

- Don’t let up, keep up the pressure with a Vacuum Wave!

A pulse of compressed air was released as Sai threw a speedy punch and travelled towards Borg faster than he could guard; the ensuing blast caused the ground around the Carracosta to crack, but Borg remained standing like a fortress… And then, he fought back!

- Sai, watch out!

A massive stream of water washed over the Scizor, the sheer power behind Borg’s Hydro Pump dwarfing any other similar move Levin had ever seen, Nylus’s included! Sai was lifted off the ground and carried away by the current, and didn’t stop until he crashed into a nearby wall. When Borg finally let up, Levin’s partner remained carved into the rock, and much to the Ace Trainer’s dismay… Sai was unconscious!

This soon?! I expected Sai to have a hard time, but to be knocked out in two moves…

He reluctantly recalled the Scizor into his Ball, awestruck at Borg’s unassuming level of power. The legends were true alright… it was no wonder so many Trainers chose to walk past him. But wild prodigy or trained warrior, Levin wasn’t going to give up so soon! He had someone else in mind to challenge the beast…

- To battle… Buster!!

The black Heracross materialized and stared coldly at the Carracosta in front of him. There was a time when he’d have jumped for joy over the chance of fighting, but those days were long behind the scarred beetle. Still, Levin had managed to regain Buster’s trust and friendship, and he knew the experiences away from the team, traumatic as they’d been, had also brought Buster great strength and maturity. It was time to test just how much he’d grown!

But the foe was dangerous indeed. Just as soon as Buster emerged from his Pokeball – the very second his feet touched the ground, in fact – Borg rushed forward with another Aqua Jet so strong, he ran over Buster with it and landed behind the black beetle!
Enraged, Buster jumped back up and, not wasting one moment to seek retribution, dashed towards Borg and drilled him with a flurry of Arm Thusts, then capped off his retaliation with an overhead forearm smash, the Brick Break rocking Borg hard and causing him to stagger back, visibly stunned!

- Well done Buster, but watch out for his comeback! That Pokemon is deceivingly strong!

Levin’s warning was immediately confirmed once Borg hurled his right fin forward and hit a Slam so strong, Buster fell over from the blunt strength! But the Heracross wasn’t one to stay down, and immediately pulled himself up from the floor, fire burning in his yellow eyes where before there was little more than mild curiosity to test his foe.

Buster awoke.

Levin smiled at the struggle – not only because Buster was finally raring to go, but because the opponent was really something he hadn’t prepared for: a wild Pokemon stronger than most trained ones, certainly stronger than many of his own. He couldn’t allow himself to lose here if he were to defeat Gottfried and his League, but couldn’t help wondering how Gottfried himself would handle Borg…

I can’t even fathom the Champion’s power. Would he struggle? If… no, when I beat Borg, will he acknowledge it as a feat, or just scoff? It frightens me how little I know of Gottfried…

Borg was staring straight at Buster while the black beetle returned the glare. After the brief staredown, the Carracosta seemed to have made up his mind: recognizing Buster as an actual threat, he began to focus, and even Levin could somehow feel the shift in Borg’s level of power… His shell began to crack audibly, until it shattered into a hundred fragment of black rock orbiting around his body while took on a red glow. Shell Smash…
Recognizing the threat, Buster awaited instructions – something he’d never have done as a youngster. Despite everything that had happened, the Heracross was placing his trust in Levin… he couldn’t let him down!

- Buster, he’s twice as strong and twice as fast, but there’s a chink in his armor! So don’t try to shield his blows, focus on dodging and striking instead!

Buster nodded. Levin knew him well… He would have to put aside the pride he had in his endurance for now.
Borg walked towards his opponent slowly, deliberately, one step at a time… then suddenly picked up speed and began to run literal circles around Buster! He was taunting Levin and his partner! Buster held his ground, eyes locked on Borg as he continued to circle him… but when yet another Aqua Jet came, much faster than any of the previous, the black Heracross was unable to react, let alone dodge, as Borg crashed into him like a bullet of water!

- Buster, get ready for another one!

Levin was right; just as the Hercules beetle was preparing to get rise to his feet, Borg bolted forward again with another Aqua Jet, intending to keep Buster down until he couldn’t get back up. But thanks to his Trainer’s warning, Buster instinctively rolled to the side as soon as he heard the sound of rushing water, and although blindly, he managed to narrowly avoid the charge!

- Now! Bullet Seed!!

That was it, the opening they needed. Borg’s offense was almost unparalleled, but he had to sacrifice defense to achieve that state. If Buster could exploit that weakness, maybe they could topple Heiml’s legend!
Buster arched his body back, charging up, then unleashed a barrage of seeds at Borg, who was still readjusting after missing the last Aqua Jet. Each and every projectile found its mark, exploding on contact… but after hunching over in pain, Borg turned back around to meet Buster with a grin!

That hit should’ve been catastrophic… but he’s barely fazed! Even his weaknesses are hard to exploit!

It wasn’t until Bullet Seed’s effectiveness turned out to be a letdown that Levin knew for sure: Borg’s Ability had to be Solid Rock. Which only served to further complicate things for him, and helped explain why neither Sai’s Steel moves nor Buster’s Fighting ones did much of anything to the beast…

Even when you try to hit a weak point, it turns out Borg has it covered as well… that’s why he has no problem resorting to Shell Smash either. He’s unbelievably intelligent for a wild Pokemon… which only makes him more dangerous when considering how strong he also is. Hang in there Buster…

Borg slammed a foot on the ground and numerous boulders rose up. With a motion of his arms, each stone homed in on Buster, but the black Bug-Type had the Rock Slide well scouted.

- Shatter them with Rock Smash!

Each boulder that approached Buster was met with a crushing fist that caused it to shatter into a dozen small pieces. The Heracross successfully fended off every single projectile, but as soon as he was done breaking the final one, a powerful torrent washed him away much like it had Sai… Buster was hit with Borg’s Hydro Pump, who as it turned out had only used Rock Slide as a distraction! Buster was lifted off the ground and, much like the Scizor before him, crashed into the cave wall...

Damn! Not again… He’s outsmarting me!

When the stream subsided, Buster was trapped in rubble, an all-too-familiar sight… But the Heracross was not done yet! Mustering the strength to free himself, the Fighting-Type refused to faint, and when Borg switched up his strategy in the shape of a stream of saltwater - a Brine to capitalize on his foe’s injuries – Buster braced himself as he kept walking, Enduring the hit!

- One final effort Buster, you can do it!

It was evident at this point who had the bout won, but Buster could still do one last thing – precisely because he was Buster, whose fighting spirit burned stronger than any other. The Heracross himself knew what Levin wanted, and the instruction came as little more than a formality…

- Close Combat!

Muscling his way through the Brine stream, Buster brought himself into melee range to Borg’s disbelief, and unleashed a furious combination of punches and kicks that the Carracosta could never hope to block effectively, hits coming from any and all angles until Buster was physically unable to attempting a single extra strike. With Borg reeling in pain, Buster smiled at his successful effort… and collapsed in front of the Carracosta, completely drained.

[i]You were amazing… now, it’s time to put an end to this. I underestimated him because he was a wild Pokemon, but I won’t make that mistake again.[i]

- Borg… I’m coming at you with everything I got! You deserve no less than that. Buster, return!

He had to go all-out here. Even in his weakened state, Borg was still more than capable of defeating just about any of his remaining on-hand Pokemon, he was forced to recognize… except for one.

- To battle… Hazo!

The Luxury Ball snapped open, and Levin’s most trustworthy companion took his place on the battlefield. The Lucario looked at his would-be opponent and smiled.

A worthy opponent, to have bested both Sai and Buster.

As Hazo spoke, his Lucarionite began to resonate with Levin’s Key Stone. Their wills were synchronous – to defeat Borg in the most decisive of fashions.

Ready?

Ready.

Iridescent streams of light emanated from the Key Stone and Mega Stone simultaneously, intertwining midway. Hazo’s body began to glow a dozen different colors at once while undergoing a new transformation; when the light faded, the Lucario revealed his true final form:

Borg watched on, visibly curious. In his millennia of existence, this couldn’t be the first time he witnessed Mega Evolution, but it was always a sight to behold that carried with it the promise of a new, superior challenge. Hazo, as the Carracosta would soon discover, was just that - even in his base form.
The Water-Type moved to employ the same strategy that had worked against Sai and Buster – as soon as he knew what he was up against, he charged forward with a super-fast Aqua Jet, looking to beat Hazo down before he could move!

Beat his speed!

Easily.

Orders unspoken, Hazo suddenly vanished from sight. When Borg reached the spot where his target once was, he suddenly stopped, confused at the Lucario’s disappearance… only to fall over clutching his abdomen, reeling from a hit he neither saw nor felt until it had long been delivered. Hazo, in turn, stood on the lone rock platform at the center of the lake, considerably far away from his initial position, having somehow crossed the entire lake in the blink of an eye.

- Borg, you are remarkably fast for a Pokemon your size. But even you can’t match Hazo’s Extreme Speed.

The Prototurtle looked over to his foe, who had just covered a physically-impossible amount of ground in a heartbeat. Not about to argue that he indeed was fighting a losing battle when it came to speed, the extremely intelligent wild Water-Type once again changed up his strategy: by stomping the ground again, he caused the cave’s central platform to crumble and shatter, providing material for another Rock Slide and at the same time removing Hazo’s ground from under his feet!

Show him.

Just as the last stone beneath Hazo began to crack, the Mega Lucario’s eyes started to glow blue. Each boulder summoned to form Rock Slide was suddenly pulled back down and landed above the water once more, one by one, tidily forming a path across the lake’s surface… Hazo’s Psychic held the rocks in place as he slowly traversed the road he crafted, an astonished Borg looking on as his own move was easily manipulated and nullified…

Your merits are aplenty, Lord of Victory Road. But my master’s ambitions go beyond this cave, and I intend to see him to his destination. You will not stand in our way.

- It was an honor to face you Borg. I can see the stories about you are true!But now… it’s time I end it. Hazo…

Aura Sphere!

The order was again issued mentally, and the Mega Lucario responded by raising a hand in the air, creating a massive orb of blue light and tossing it towards Borg. Dumbfounded as he was in the face of power he could not conceive, the experience of ages kicked in and allowed the Carracosta to instinctively defend himself yet again by raising an emerald Protect shield. The Aura Sphere, otherwise unavoidable, crashed into the barrier and exploded so violently, the entire cave shook and rumbled; debris flew everywhere, obscuring the battlefield… and it wasn’t until it was much too late that Borg saw Hazo close in on him through the smoke, fast as lightning, and drive a single Force Palm into his torso. The ensuing pulse of energy ravaged Borg from the inside out, and when Hazo removed his hand from Borg’s chest, the Carracosta fell face-first on the rocky floor… completely unconscious!

It’s done… I beat him. I beat Borg!

As soon as the battle ended, Hazo’s Mega Evolution ceased and he returned to his base form, visibly tired from the strain of his ultimate form. Greeting Levin with a smile, he held out a closed first, which was met by Levin’s own.

- Thank you Hazo, you were incredible. And now, we have nothing left to prove here on Victory Road.. we can finally leave and enter the League!

The Ace Trainer recalled his dearest friend back inside his Luxury Ball and prepared to depart. As he began to ascend the tunnel back to the main path, something grabbed his arm and forced him to stop… Turning around, he was surprised to find that Borg had not only already regained his senses – in of itself a remarkable feat after facing three Pokemon in a row – but was staring straight at him. And then, he extended a fin, looking to greet the remarkable human who bested him.

- Borg… you are a remarkable fighter. I can see why you’re a legend, and why so many great Trainers dread to face you. It was an honor to face you.

He held out his hand in response to the Carracosta’s greeting, and the two battlers, man and Pokemon, parted ways with a feeling of mutual respect bonding them. Borg would continue to dwell in his millennial shelter, taking on those looking to test their strength to the limit. And as for Levin, he’d just closed the last chapter of his Victory Road crossing… and began a new one, the last one, in his chase for the title of Champion.

Gottfried, brace yourself!
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Old 10-31-2016, 08:03 AM   #13
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Levin's Chapter 7 - "Bjorn"

Darkness lifted progressively as he approached the hole in the wall. Rays of sunlight penetrated the exit of Victory Road, granting those last few feet a merciful brightness that contrasted heavily with the immense distances Levin had walked in shadows. It was symbolic, in a way, as little as Levin cared for that sort of thing… the literal light at the end of the tunnel that represented hope for a new beginning.

Or, in my case, hope for the end.

This was it, after all. He stepped out into the sunlight, his feet finding carefully-mowed grass in place of rock and dust… and up ahead, as magnificent as it was oppressive, the sight of a massive castle. The residence of Heiml’s five Pokemon Masters, and the final destination of his travels – Caer Valheim.

As much as he hated to admit it, his heart was racing. This day had been a lifetime in the making, but now there was no stopping his rendez-vous with destiny – whichever that destiny may be. If Victini favoured him, he would defeat all four Elite Trainers and the Champion residing inside Caer Valheim, and write his name in the history books!

As soon as he set foot on the makeshift road, a string of pebbles along the grass, something zipped past his head, right next to his left ear. A jet of water?!
Levin leapt to the side and turned around, reacting quickly but visibly confused. When he locked eyes with the attacker, he saw someone he never expected.

A large, dark-blue turtle with a furry tail, a sack strapped to his shell and a crumpled piece of paper in his hand. A decidedly strange vision, and somehow, that grinning looked familiar, though he couldn’t tell why…

- Why did you attack me? Did you follow me all the way through Victory Road?

If it did, it’s a damn tough Wartortle…

Without a word, Wartortle approached Levin and held out his hand, handing him the letter. What at first seemed to the Ace Trainer like a grin now struck him as more of a relieved smile. Indeed, now that the Pokemon was closer, Levin could spot several scratches and dents on its shell, and bruises on its arms. The blonde Trainer had it rough through the maze of caves, but he was accompanied by six Pokemon. He could only imagine what it was like for a lone Wartortle to cross those tunnels by itself. And why would the Water-Type subject itself to that gruelling task just to catch up to him?...

- Is that letter for me? Trust you didn’t write it yourself... Let’s see what you have there.

His eyes widened as soon as he read the sender’s name. And from then on, everything came rushing back, and the reason for that Wartortle seeming familiar was immediately made evident.

”From: Kayl Kessler
To: Levin Sanders

Hey Levin. You remember me, don’t you? Guys like you and I don’t forget an ass whipping.
I’m sure you’re curious about all this. After all, if you got the letter, it means my partner found you and is probably standing right in front of you, with that smug grin of his… Well, you better get used to it.
After we battled, I made my way to Asbel. I wanted to find my Trainer’s spark, if you recall. Well, I did do a lot of battling. A lot of winning. But you know… I’m tired. I just don’t love this anymore, I haven’t for a long time. And not even this land managed to resurrect my passion. So it’s time I call it quits and do something else with my life. I quite enjoyed Fizzytopia, even if I never said it out loud to anyone - I might just go back and start a new life over there. And that brings me to why I sent you this letter.
Bjorn has been my companion for a long time. Saw me grow into the Trainer everyone later got to know as the “drop-out prodigy”… but he was never a quitter, not like me. He’s a ferocious soul, addicted to the thrill of battle! In his loyalty to me, he never once complained about my inactivity… but I can’t ignore this problem anymore. Bjorn was unhappy by my side, because I can’t provide what he needs anymore. He was there when I quit the battle against Gottfried, and every battle I walked away from since… but it doesn’t have to be that way forever. All he needs is the right Trainer!

And that Trainer is you.

I know you left Fizzytopia behind to take on the Heiml League. The same League I nearly won, but dropped out of. And that’s my chance to do right by Bjorn! I might have beaten you back then, but your passion meant you had unlimited potential to grow. Now that you’re cleared to fight in the Northern League, that means you must have realized your potential – which, in turn, means you and Bjorn deserve one another. I sent him to you because I want you to raise him, to take him to the glory he craves and I couldn’t provide!

He wants to join you, believe me. But Bjorn isn’t the kind of spirit who lies down in front of a challenge – if you want him, you have to earn him! So give him the battle of his life, and then lead him to victory in the League! I’m sure you’ll find him to be a remarkable addition to your team. Work together, and you can defeat Gottfried. Please Levin… do this for me and for Bjorn.

Best of lucks in the Heiml League. Looking forward to seeing “Champion Levin Sanders” on the news!

Kayl”


Levin folded the paper back in absolute silence, placed it inside the envelope and dropped to one knee, carefully storing it in his Bag. Then, without a word, he grabbed a Lemonade from the one of the pouches and stared back at the visibly-expectant Wartortle…

- Last we met you were a Squirtle. Something tells me you still were when you left Kayl. This journey to find me… it changed you, didn’t it? You risked a great deal to get here. But Kayl knew you could do it. He knows how strong you are, better than anyone else in the world.

He tossed the Lemoande at Bjorn, keeping a serious expression all the while.

- I wanna know that too. Drink up, and fight me at full force!

Bjorn was a warrior, and so was Levin. There was no honor in fighting a weakened opponent. This was Levin’s way of accepting Kayl’s request – he would earn Bjorn’s company through battle.

Levin… may I try?

Of all the voices he’d grown used to hearing, this definitely wasn’t one of them. And yet, it was instantly recognizable.

Leon? Are you sure?...

The Gallade rarely spoke up, and never to ask for a battle. The Psychic-Type was an absolute pacifist, despising the concept of battling for sport. Baroque had raised him into a powerful Pokemon, though Levin could never tell just how powerful, since Leon had never gone all-out against anyone. This sudden request… it went against everything that defined the Gallade.

Yes. It’s something I have to do. Please, give me this chance.

Bjorn beat his chest in defiance after gulping down the Lemonade. Levin, in turn, saw no reason to deny his partner’s request, and tossed his Premier Ball to the ground, releasing Leon. Perhaps during the battle he would find out the Gallade’s reasons…

The Wartortle moved first, hardening his shell with an Iron Defense. Leon, in turn extended his elbow-blades without a hint of hesitation. Was this really the same Pokemon he’d raised from a Ralts?...

- Let’s go then! Leon, Swords Dance, then Future Sight!

It will not capitalize on the boost.

Trust me.

Energy rushed through Leon’s body, and his blades took on a dangerous glow, becoming even sharper than usual. And then, his eyes took on a blue glow, and nothing happened at all.
If Bjorn was in any way puzzled, he did not convey it – instead, he tucked his head in and suddenly shot forward at unbelievable speed, much like a missile, aiming for a devastating Skull Bash!

Levin said nothing.

Levin?... What should I do?

Do what I’m thinking.

Leon understood. They had this advantage all of their own – no orders needed to be said out loud. Levin had only shouted the first instructions to lure Bjorn into a false sense of security. And right now, the Wartortle was sure he’d hit that Skull Bash since Levin didn’t issue any orders! But he could tell what his Trainer was thinking; he only had to pay attention. And what Levin was thinking was…

At the last possible second, Leon vanished from sight, and Bjorn kept going without hitting anything at all. When he finally came to a stop, the Wartortle looked around puzzled, finding no trace of his opponent… until a powerful bolt of lightning hit him from the skies above, where Leon had Teleported to!

Now! Drop down with a Leaf Blade!

Like a white comet, Leon fell from the sky as he charged up energy in his blades. When he came into range, the Gallade sliced Bjorn with a mighty downward slash, imbued with Grass energy, inflicting frightening damage!
Bjorn dropped to one knee, and seemed about to pass out… but he hung in there, refusing to fall!

Levin. Something’s happening.

That earlier Iron Defense was likely what kept Bjorn going. But there was something more, an extra layer of protection, or rather, another engine kicking into gear: a fire was burning in Bjorn’s eyes with unbelievable intensity, one that Levin supposed hadn’t been lit in quite a while. Kayl was right: Bjorn’s passion was unmatched, and Leon had just awakened a slumbering beast!
The Water-Type let out a cry, his body began to glow, and Bjorn grew to massive proportions – even taller than Levin himself. His body became sturdier, and two large cannons sprouted from his shimmering shell. When the glow subsided, the turtle’s true form revealed itself… Bjorn evolved into a fierce !!

Before either Kayl or Levin could properly wrap their heads around what’d just happened, Bjorn grinned and unleashed twin Flash Cannon blasts from his guns, which homed in on his opponent and exploded violently on contact! The Gallade was sent tumbling back several steps, and struggled to get back up after that single hit. When he spoke mentally to Levin, there was apprehension in Leon’s voice.

His power… Levin, I’m no match for that.

A second burst of Flash Cannon made its way towards Leon, and only a last-minute mental order of Protect allowed him to raise an emerald shield in time! However, just as the dust settled, Leon was hit by a massive torrent of water as Bjorn capitalized on the distraction to unleash a vicious Hydro Pump, ensuring it hit!

- Leon!!

The Psychic-Type lay on the floor, breathing heavily. His arms trembled in futile attempts to push the body back up, and his eyes were starting to glaze over.

I’m sorry. I’m… not good enough. You shouldn’t have…

So that’s what it was about.

Shouldn’t have what? Kept you around? Is that why you wanted to fight Leon – because you elt you had to prove yourself to me?

Leon’s hesitation in replying was an answer in of itself.

You’ve raised countless Pokemon. Owned phenomenal warriors, all of whom would have been strong enough to help you in the League… but you only kept twelve, and for some reason, I’m one of them. I… I don’t understand. I thought you might have seen some potential in me, you’ve always been good at that. But I was wrong…

Levin didn’t know what to say. Why did he keep Leon? Now that he thought about it, he never once contemplated letting him go, he never imagined a life away from his Gallade. And that wasn’t because he was a mainstay of his battling teams, not in the slightest. Now that he thought about it, there was only one reason; one motive why Levin Sanders kept a pacifist in the team he’d chosen to fulfil his destiny.

I kept you because… you are me. You are a reflection of my feelings, yet retain a character of your own! You’re elated when I’m happy, and sad when I’m down. You grow restless when I’m frustrated, whenever I fail. Letting you go would be leaving part of me behind. Even more so than Hazo, Zion or Eld, you know every single part of me, right down to my deepest fears and desires.

He walked up to Leon and held out his hand.

And that’s why you know…

Leon smiled and grabbed his hand, pulling himself back up.

That I won’t lose today.

Light enveloped them both, a different glow from the one Levin had seen in Bjorn and so many evolving Pokemon before. This one was a golden aura, particles of light swirling around them before coalescing to form an ethereal chain uniting their hearts. Leon’s body glistened… and once the light faded, the white knight’s green helmet and swords had gained a magnificent golden hue, strongly resembling the color of Levin’s own hair: Leon was reborn into a unique

- Wh… what just happened? Leon, did you…

I feel... different. Like everything is possible, only a gesture away…

Omnipresent, Zion’s metallic voice rang in his head, providing swift, if incomplete explanation. Both Levin and Leon listened intently, as the strange phenomenon was foreign to both.

Data exists on few similar events. One record belongs to Harald of Heiml, deceased father of Champion Gottfried. He dubbed it “Synchro Evolution”, though the phenomenon was never replicated in the region to propagate this term. Two similar recordings exist in Kalos, although these are related with slight differences, and labelled “Bond Phenomenon” in that region. Unequivocally, it is a state of heightened power born of a unique connection between Trainer and Pokemon, varying in physical manifestation. In Leon’s case, the change appears to be permanent. Further testing required.

Leon’s smile conveyed relief and newfound confidence. Levin, in turn, was still baffled; this was nothing short of a miracle. “Synchro Evolution”… It was time to test it!

Thank you Levin. You awakened something special in me… we should see how this new me handles himself. If I’m finally good enough to deserve your trust.

- You have nothing to prove. I won’t force you to battle, I know that y…

You said it yourself: I am you. And we want to fulfil our destiny as champions – when your desire burns this fiercely, I can’t help but make it my own desire as well. Battling… it can be fun after all, when you’re striving for something so grand. I see that now.

Bjorn, still coming to terms with his own transformation, walked over to Leon with large, resounding steps. Grinning with excitement, he held out a massive hand, shaking Leon’s in a show of sportsmanship – both Pokemon knew the true battle was only now beginning.

Thank you Bjorn. Let’s have fun… that’s what we should be fighting for.


The Blastoise nodded in agreement. The tortoise then charged up his fists and threw them forward in a show of Strength… but stopped midway when twenty other Gallades appeared before his eyes! At first stunned by the sudden Double Team, Bjorn quickly regrouped and took to spinning in place, a Rapid Spin as he fired off his Hydro Pump in repeated circular motions, wiping out every single clone in the blink of an eye! But the real Leon was nowhere to be found, as he Teleported away again!

Brace yourself.

The sky suddenly darkened, thunder began to roar, and rainclouds parted to reveal a gigantic iridescent orb falling from the heavens! The Future Sight had arrived, threatening to consume everything in its path! The sphere collided with the earth, evaporating the soil on contact, and when it subsided only a giant circular crater remained, with Bjorn right in the center!

- But he’s still standing…

Taking a page off of Leon’s playbook, the Blastoise had managed to put up a Protective shield at the last second, evading the devastation of the move! But just as Bjorn breathed a sigh of relief, the golden knight materialized right behind him, glimmering blade extended.

Again… Leaf Blade!

A bright green flash later, Leon was sheathing his elbow sword, and it looked as if Bjorn had been decapitated… but it turned out to have merely retreated back inside his shell! And capitalizing on Leon’s proximity, the Blastoise countered with a point-blank Rapid Spin, pushing the Psychic-Type back with the impact!

He’s been doing this for years… Bjorn’s battle senses are heightened to their absolute sharpest! He’s as smart as he is powerful. Be on your guard Leon!

You have no reason to worry. For the first time in my life, I’m having fun doing this... and there’s nothing I can’t take in this state.

Bjorn had already regrouped, and unleashed another Hydro Pump at Leon. But when the twin jets approached, they suddenly split apart, then arced to crash into the ground behind the Gallade, overwhelmed and controlled by his Psychic force! The subsequent Flash Cannon was diverted just as effortlessly, and the glow in Leon’s eyes told Levin what the knight subsequently confirmed…

From this point on... you won’t land a single hit.

Bjorn stomped the ground rhythmically, rose his arms to the sky and rainclouds once again gathered, although this time they did not precede a Future Sight… but a heavy downpour born of Rain Dance!
Leon summoned a barrage of Magical Leaves, but as they whistled across the air, the raging storm got worse and wind kicked up, causing the otherwise unavoidable projectiles to steer off-course and miss Bjorn!
The Blastoise followed up by aiming his cannons one more time, but the blasts this time were much bigger, much stronger and much faster: the boosted Hydro Pump made its way toward Leon like a tidal wave… but suddenly stopped, like water hose had been abruptly turned off, and the jets of water never made it to their intended target!
Bjorn tried to move, and realized he couldn’t. No matter how hard he tried, his muscles wouldn’t budge! This was no ordinary paralysis, he’d contended with plenty of Thunder Waves and Stun Spores in the past, under Kayl’s ownership… but he’d never felt something like this. Looking at his foe, he saw Leon holding something: upon closer inspection, he saw a miniature doll of himself hovering an inch above the Gallade’s outstretched palm, with a single needle stuck in its chest… and he understood, even without knowing the technique, that it was over.

Thunderbolt to end this.

A spear of lighting shot forward from Leon’s golden blade, and enveloped Bjorn in a violent display of light. When it was over, Bjorn remained standing, paralyzed, but completely unconscious.

Going down on your feet… it was the only fitting end I could conceive for an opponent of your calibre. Thank you again, Bjorn.

The doll vanished, and the Blastoise fell. After a brief while he regained consciousness, and found Levin and Leon standing above him, smiling. All he could do was smile back… that was one heck of a battle.
Bjorn rose to his feet, shook hands with Leon and then with Levin, with an obvious look of gratitude on his face. The Ace Trainer could only wonder how long it’d been since he’d last gone all out… and if the battle would have gone differently had Bjorn been fighting regularly before their clash.

But that didn’t matter anymore: Levin watched as the Blastoise himself reached for his Bag and clumsily retrieved an empty Pokeball. He took the device from Bjorn’s hand and, after a mutual nod, tapped the creature with it, drawing him inside! With no signs of struggle, Bjorn allowed himself to be caught, and the Pokeball clicked shut to seal the deal.

- It’s done. Welcome to the team Bjorn… I promise I’ll do everything in my power to beat Gottfried with your help! I’ll do what Kayl couldn’t… what nobody up until now could!

And I will be honored to help, should you chose to rely on me. I owe you more than I could put into words, Levin. It’s only fair I repay my debt.

Levin took a moment to take in the sight of his partner turned white-and-gold, the result of a miraculous Synchro Evolution he did not even know existed. Leon would fight for him whenever he asked, but after today, he had the feeling the Gallade himself would be asking to fight on occasion, should he deem the opponent worth it.

- The honor is all mine. I couldn’t be happier to have you by my side Leon. Now come along, let’s show the Heiml Masters the strength of our bond!

Levin Sanders turned to face Caer Valheim, its cold towers, its lifeless walls. The massive structure could not possibly convey the five wonders within; to the unsuspecting eye, it was no more than a long-abandoned fortress. But Levin knew the truth – that his tale would end inside the halls of Caer Valheim, whichever the outcome.
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Old 10-31-2016, 08:08 AM   #14
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Levin's Chapter 8 - "Caer Valheim"

Nobody awaited him by the front gate. Come to think of it, why would anyone be there to greet him? Anyone reaching Caer Valheim already had to have proven themselves in the Victory Road, and if this place was ever the home to any royal figures in need of knightly protection, such times were long past. The gates were open, inviting anyone worthy of having made it this far to enter the castle’s halls. And Levin felt more than worthy, especially after having bested the Carracosta called Borg, the strongest wild Pokemon in the region. He took a deep breath… and walked inside.

Large crimson tapestries lined the cold stone walls and floor, with lion-like creatures embroidered in silver. If they were meant to resemble any particular Pokemon, or merely a generic symbol of power, Levin could not tell, but the front hall of Caer Valheim was indeed an imposing sight. A large staircase rose from the center of the hall leading to the floor above, ending in a balcony with two stands, one on each side, each with a stern-looking clerk behind them. They noticed him immediately, looking down at the entrance from their elevated position, and as soon as they exchanged glances with Levin, their mood seemed to shift and both broke a smile. They probably don’t get many visitors. Trainers who make it this far must be few and far between.

As he made the way up the stairs, his heart and mind started racing. The steps seemed to go on forever, so lost was he in thought. Yes, he was nervous about the challenge ahead, but he was thinking about something else… the partners he’d chosen to bring along in this very last stretch of his journey and, more importantly, the ones he left behind or otherwise parted with before entering the Victory Road. The Pokemon in his possession now, should he succeed, would be the ones linked to his name forever in the annals of history, but…

What about all the others? The ones who won’t be known, who’ll never be remembered? They were every bit as much a part of my story as the ones I kept. Some were with me for years; is it fair for them to remain anonymous, irrelevant to the eyes of the public? Every Pokemon I journeyed with shaped me in some way or form. I am who I am today because of them, all of them...

He immediately turned to the clerk on the left at the end of the stairway, moving on instinct as soon as he realized that was the man who handled Pokemon deposits and withdrawals. He needed that – closure, a moment to browse through his PC in peace, see who was left… and more importantly, who was gone.

The screen lit up and Levin entered his credentials. The software was familiar, but the Box on display felt… barren. At one point in his career, he’d owned almost thirty Pokemon at the same time. Now, only a fraction of those remained, the ones who’d chosen to stay by his side in a life of constant battling – no more journeying, exploring or sightseeing like in the days of old… he now lived only to battle, until he was crowned Champion. It was a lot to ask of his Pokemon, and coming to mutual agreement with those who pursued other dreams of their own was much easier than he’d anticipated.

But it still hurts.

Only twelve remained. The twelve that would, hopefully, lead him to and beyond Gottfried. Levin stared at each of them, each tiny icon that represented the partner in question, and for each one he stared at, there were just as many that weren’t there anymore. He kept a few others in a different Box, but they were meant for someone else in due time, and for all intents and purposes, Levin couldn’t consider them “his” anymore… it made things easier that way. No, only twelve warriors stood by his side in this final chapter, and he found himself whispering each of their names as he gazed at the screen…

- Hazo, Kyzer, Eld, Leon, Zion, Bud, Bjorn, Basker, Baroque, Oro, Almace, Ciel.

He’d done a lot of soul searching before he embarked aboard the S.S. Bifrost, and again once he defeated Vesper a short distance away from the Altheim Gate. Both times, he was forced to call out some of his long time partners and soon, the reality he feared became undeniable: they wanted to be elsewhere, live a different life. That was why Min, his oldest friend, stayed behind in Salin City working at the Pokemon Center alongside Nurse Joy; why Brimir quit the battling life to become the symbol of Yggdra City, cared for by the local Pokemon Professor, as the previous Mamoswine had passed away some time back and no living replacement had been found yet; why Buster was being kept separately, with a new goal in store for him to be unveiled very soon; and why Qeth and Nylus would also be parting ways with Levin in the near future, despite remaining in his possession for the moment.

Through the bitterness of every goodbye, he somehow found himself cracking a smile while looking over his remaining allies. Almost half of his team was Steel, and a third was Fire. As if he were an amalgamation of Ivan’s and Eld’s wills, here to carry on the legacy of the former and the prophecy of the latter.

No… I am Levin Sanders. I am my own man, and these are the companions who stand by me in the most critical moment of my journey! I surpassed my brother and I tamed the Old Sun. I am more than Steel and Fire; I am the next Champion of Heiml! But if iron and flames are what’s needed to carry me to my destiny, so be it: I will slash and burn my way there!

He knew little about the Heiml Elite Four, save for their names and preferred Types. Not only that; he didn’t know the rules of this League Challenge, and as such had no way of knowing who he’d be facing first… that made building a team much harder.

- Don’t worry, – said the clerk behind the counter, as if guessing his predicament. – Heiml Trainers value honor above all else, and not a single member of the Elite Four would dare battle you, were you not in your prime. Challengers are allowed to return here to give their partners some rest and, if need be, switch their teams around. It’s the Heimlan way.

That was definitely good news, and not entirely unexpected in hindsight. Heimlans had struck him immediately as a proud people, who placed valor above any other virtue. Whereas other Leagues had Trainers engage in consecutive battles with their Elites, in Heiml no Pokemon Master would accept a battle against a weakened opponent. But he still had to pick a team for the first Elite Four, and that remained a shot in the dark…

I’ve grown to know how the people of Heiml think. This clerk has just given me additional confirmation. So if I were in the Heimlan Elite Four, how would I approach an opponent? Yes… might as well take a risk!

His mind made up, and knowingly about to take a risky gamble, Levin clicked on the six icons representing his active party. Immediately the appropriate Pokeballs materialized on the counter (while some of them were already in his possession since crossing Victory Road) and the blonde Ace Trainer picked them up. He thanked the shopkeeper, then turned his attention to the large door at the end of the upper floor hallway, without paying any mind to the clerk on the opposite side – that one sold items, and his pride prevented him from relying on anything other than what his partners were holding. The Elite Four most likely wouldn’t be employing outside help either, if his take on these northern folk was correct, and he wanted to fight on equal footing with Heiml’s finest.

- It’s time.

Burning with resolve, Levin Sanders of Saffron City walked along the corridor and made his way through the gate, ready to meet the Elite Four and their Champion on the other side.
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Old 10-31-2016, 08:14 AM   #15
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Gale's Chapter 3 - "Gale Windsor, Dragon Awakened"

His journey had started out in the most unlikely of fashions, and had been a thrilling ride from the very beginning, a marvellous new world sprawling before his eyes with a million things to learn and discover. So why was it that now, Gale Windsor couldn’t even bring himself to get up?

Because I’m not good enough to do this… to be a Trainer. I never should’ve left Violet.

Gale wasn’t fond of enclosed spaces; he’d much rather spend the nights outside, camping, with the certainty that all it took to see the night sky was sticking his head out of his tent. But leaving his tent today wasn’t something he planned on doing. All motivation, all sense of wonder and excitement had pretty much left him after recent events.

He looked in silence at one of the various Pokeballs scattered on the floor near his Bag. The one that contained a creature he’d never expected to raise, and whose encounter changed Gale’s outlook on adventuring forever. The Pokemon was now docile, entirely obedient and without a shadow of a doubt his strongest ally… but Gale couldn’t forget that led up to the capture of Rhadamanthys the Goodra.

I was powerless to stop his rampage; he seriously injured all of my birds, and if it hadn’t been for that Kamui guy, I probably wouldn’t have made it out of that encounter at all…

It was only then that the inescapable reality finally hit him: as much as he despised forcing Pokemon to fight, as long as he travelled the world there would always be a chance he’d be forced to battle. Journeying was a dangerous affair, much more dangerous than he’d anticipated. And he was no good at battling, having actively avoided it his entire life… the very thought of ordering one of his partners to attack and harm another Pokemon, only to make them liable to be hurt back, was appalling to him. And yet, it was for that very reason that he’d been helpless to protect his birds when Rhadamanthys attacked…

I was the one who called them out in the first place, all of them. I willingly put them in harm’s way, when I knew they’d be no match for the dragon. I panicked… but my partners didn’t disobey, they lunged at Rhadamanthys knowing they’d get hurt. Why did they stand up to him? They could’ve said no! They’re only alive because Kamui stepped in…

That thought pained him the most: that he’d been nearly responsible for his Pokemon’s demise. No Trainer worth being called as such would put his friends in that kind of predicament. And it was for that reason that, after the terrifying events, he’d made the toughest decision of his adventure so far.

He released every one of his Pokemon that wanted to return to the wilderness.

Pidove, Spearow and Taillow took me up on the offer. But the rest…

His eyes shifted from Rhadamanthys’ Pokeball to the others around it. Those were the partners who refused to leave him, despite his incompetence. Orion, Siegfried, Musashi, Solomon. Even knowing he couldn’t protect them, they chose to stay… something Gale neither understood nor agreed with, but was touched by nonetheless. If they wanted to be with him, he wasn’t going to be the one to shoo them away… No, he’d have to work harder than ever to deserve the faith they’d placed in him! Even if that meant learning how to fight, against his preference…

Just then, he heard something. A familiar sound, though somewhat out of place… It was the flapping of wings just outside his tent! But all of his partners were resting inside their Pokeballs, so… who exactly was out there? Despite wanting nothing more than to remain alone with his thoughts, the continued sound of wingbeats peaked his numbed curiosity. Slowly, half-bitterly, Gale got up and grabbed his Bag and Pokeballs and finally stepped outside. He had no idea how long he’d been inside the tent, now that he thought of it.

Wh-who is that?...

As soon as he walked outside into the afternoon sunlight, he was met with the penetrating gaze of a Pokemon he’d never seen in person, only read bout. It remained airborne few feet above the ground, flapping wings that unleashed embers in a glorious display of light. No doubt it remained stationary intentionally, to lure Gale out of the tent… but what did it want with him specifically?

Hawk-like, powerful orange wings, fire escaping from its feathers… This is a Talonflame. A Kalos-native! There has only ever been one recorded specimen in this region, brought from abroad as a Fletchling. Levin Sanders was the only one in Fizzy Bubbles known to have raised this kind of Pokemon, so…

- Are… are you Solair?

Gale’s knowledge of avian Pokemon was unparalleled, even if most of it was entirely theoretical. But he’d heard of this Talonflame many times recently: although it was still a Fletchinder when Levin left for Heiml, word wuickly spread about how it had evolved in a fight with a foreign Gym Leader and completely outmatched her Pokemon. Sure, there was always the possibility that this was another Talonflame altogether, but somehow… he knew it was Solair.

The hawk finally landed, stared at Gale and nodded. It seemed to the silver-haired man that the bird smiled briefly, though it could have been nothing. But then, Solair drew Gale’s attention to something he’d been holding in his right claw; he retrieved it with his beak and tossed it at Gale’s feet – and this time, he definitely did spot a grin.

- This is… a Pokeball?

It was different than most. This one was a mix of green and brown instead of the usual red – a special Ball that symbolized this Pokemon had come to the region as part of a special event. What did this all mean?!

- Solair, what are you doing? Where’s Levin, why did you come here? Have you… parted ways? If so, why are you giving me your Pokeball? Why me of all people?!

Fear had begun taking hold of him again. This was Solair, for Arceus’ sake! One of Levin Sanders’ most famous Pokemon, a well-known staple of his team… Why was he handing his own Pokeball over to him, a complete nobody when it came to doing what Levin did best?!

- Levin sent you, didn’t he? Because I told him I was a birdkeeper… He must have thought you’d be better off under my care. But he’s wrong, I don’t know the first thing about raising warriors like you! I’m still just starting out, getting my bearings… there’s nothing I can give you that Levin won’t be able to do better!

Solair listened in silence, as his knightly education demanded. But when Gale was done venting, the hawk unleashed a stream of flames from its beak, took flight and let out an ear-piercing shout, the meaning of which even Gale could clearly understand: a war cry.

- What are you doing? I… I don’t want to fight you! Solair, I don’t want any of this! You don’t have to force me into a battle to see for yourself, I’m telling you that I’m not….

He was suddenly interrupted by the spontaneous unlocking of one of his Pokeballs. Siegfried, his Staraptor, took flight in front of him and glared at Solair with defiance and…. excitement?

Why? Siegfried has always picked fights, it’s in his nature, but to willingly challenge a Pokemon of such renown? What pleasure could he draw from it?

What followed was an aerial clash at such high speed, Gale wouldn’t be able to describe the events if anyone asked. Embers and feathers filled the skies, punctuated by battle shouts. The fight itself could not have lasted more than two minutes, and came to a close when Solair’s Flare Blitz collided with Siegfried’s Brave Bird and the flames won out, causing the Staraptor to crash and burn to the ground below, much to Gale’s concern. However, upon approaching Siegfried, who quickly regained his senses, the youngest Windsor was shocked to find his avian companion grinning, deeply pleased with the confrontation despite his loss…

Siegfried… he’s overjoyed! Through the pain and defeat, he’s still smiling. Why? Can it be that… I was misreading things all this time?

He recalled his injured partner and stood up. Solair landed in front of him, Roosting away the damage before the next challenger appeared… and then, Gale cracked a smile of his own as he stared motionlessly at the ground. The reality that had eluded him for over two decades was now apparent – it had been there all along, but in his stubbornness, he’d refused to see it and embrace it for what it was.

Solair, Siegfried… thank you. I understand now. All this time, I’d been convincing myself that people forced Pokemon to battle for their own enjoyment and profit. I thought these battles were glorified brutality devised to please humans… But clashing, measuring forces, competing to come out on top – that’s what makes you Pokemon, setting you apart from other animals! You enjoy facing one another in friendly competition, you actually like battling! It’s why you learn to breathe fire, or control lightning. Because battling is in your blood. You aren’t forced into it, it’s not something humans have been imposing upon you – it’s a mutual interest. And I’ve been blind to this, blind to what makes you Pokemon in the first place! Even though Orion, Siegfried, Musashi and the rest have always been more than happy to test their strength whenever the need or opportunity arose. I was a fool… I may know nothing of battles, but my friends do. It’s in their nature. So it’s high time… I let them be themselves!

- Solair, brace yourself! I’m going all out now!

The Talonflame smiled at Gale’s change of heart, glad he could make the youngster understand in Levin’s stead. He took flight once more, reinvigorated, and awaited his next opponent as each flap of his wings filled the skies with beautiful embers.

Gale tossed a second Pokeball to the floor, but this time no bird appeared. Instead a large took form, to Solair’s surprise.

Is this what I lacked? Why I still haven’t been able to give you wings? A man with a Xatu I met a while back said I would one day find a dragon’s soul sleeping inside me… I took it for the ravings of a madman and went on my way. I’ve always been a Birdkeeper, not a Dragon Tamer! But what if he was right?… Rhadamanthys has turned out to be my strongest companion by far, and I promised I’d help this little one grow wings of his own one day. What if I do have an affinity not just for birds, but for dragons as well? A Dragon Tamer that can’t battle… that’d be a sight to behold.

The thought both amused and frustrated him. But he’d discovered something very important today, and that could be the turning point for him. If his partners really did like to battle, what reason did he have not to join in on the fun? The better he became, he stronger and happier his birds and dragons would be. Yes… it would all start on this day!

- Beowulf! This… this is the day I give you wings!!

His own resolve startled him, but he knew he was right. Something burned within him that he’d never felt before – perhaps the same fire that ignited inside Siegfried earlier? Or was it the dragon’s soul that man spoke of? He found his mind coming up with battle strategies, logic and scenarios he never knew he could put together. It all came rushing forward at once, like he’d been fighting all his life…

Beowulf favors melee combat, hitting Solair will be a problem. Open with ranged alternative. Solair’s pride will draw him into reach for us. Wait and strike.

- Beowulf, strike him down with Dragon Breath!

A jet of blue flames escaped the Shelgon’s mouth from within his carapace, but Solair’s unparalleled speed allowed him to dodge effortlessly. And, just as Gale somehow predicted, the hawk dove down and closed his distance on Beowulf, embracing the honourable approach of fighting his foe at his best.

His movement pattern is erratic. Acrobatics.

Indeed, Solair began to steer off-course repeatedly, twisting and turning in the air in untraceable motions. The perfect move for a Pokemon of his skills… and Gale knew that.

- Take the hit. Then Dragon Claw as he tries to soar!

Despite Acrobatics’ sheer power, Beowulf’s shell absorbed the brunt of the blow, causing Solair to stagger on impact. And as soon as he spread his wings to rise again, the Shelgon launched a fierce strike with his claw, sending the Talonflame to the ground!

He’s at his most vulnerable. We have ground advantage. Melee until we lose range.

- Double Edge into the ground! Follow up with a Zen Headbutt to keep him staggered!

Beowulf seemed to hesitate briefly before his Trainer’s sudden change. He never knew Gale to be this skilled… but he wasn’t going to argue with the instructions! Gale himself was stunned; what was going on with him? Just then, another thought emerged, as clear and concise as all the others, and his mouth spoke instantly.

- Stay clear of the wings.

Solair’s tale is the stuff of legends. His wings were pierced as a Fletchling, and he prizes them above all else. Although they’ve longed heal, he might take offense if we target them. We’ll keep this as honourable as we can.

The dragon rushed forward, enveloped in a sizzling white aura, and crashed into the still-recovering Solair with great force! The hawk was sent tumbling along the ground, and Beowulf again took a running start, charging Psychic energy in his forehead… but this time Solair was fast enough to evade it, and was already high up in the air in the blink of an eye!

He won’t refuse a test of strength. Let’s see which burns the hottest: phoenix fire or dragon fire.

- Beowulf, Flamethrower!

As soon as embers escaped the dragon’s mouth, Solair took the message. Gale was quickly revealing a new, impressive side of him, but the Talonflame was no stranger to battling. He was, after all, raised by Levin Sanders. If the birdkeeper wanted to fight fire with fire, so be it.

The two jets of fire collided in mid-air, each Flamethrower stream spreading tongues of fire everywhere as it struggled to overpower the other. But Beowulf’s fire soon began to falter under the pressure of Solair’s intensely-hot blazes, and the Talonflame’s attack began to push back the Shelgon’s…

And Gale had fully expected it.

Now is the time to show your true self.

- See it, Beowulf? The heat of his flame, the might of his wings? He trained his entire life to be this strong, to fly this high! His wings were nothing but holes, useless and weak, unable sustain his own weight! But Solair believed, harder and more fervently than anyone else, and he was cured! His wings grew so powerful they made him famous, and the sky has no limits for him! This is who you have to match! This is the measuring stick! Will you fall behind and carry that shell your entire life, that heavy burden of what could have been?! You’re better than that.. Spread your wings now!!

Whether out of motivation or anger, Beowulf found himself tapping into a pool of strength he never knew he had. His Flamethrower grew in size, and began to force Solair’s back to middle ground… and then, the Shelgon began to glow!

This is it… Show them!

A loud cracking sound was heard above the roar of the flames. Beowulf’s frame grew dramatically, and two massive wings sprouted from within the shattered shell. When the glow subsided, he was no longer a mere Shelgon. After all that time, Beowulf’s dream had come true, and he stood before Gale and Solair as a mighty !

- Wonderful! I knew you could do it!! Now’s the time you’ve been waiting for… take to the skies and fight Solair as an equal!

The Flamethrowers ceased almost simultaneously, neither holding a terrain advantage at that point. Beowulf roared proudly, flapped his wings no more than twice and saw his huge frame be lifted off the ground with minimal effort. At long last, he was flying!
Solair, knightly and just as he was, waited for his opponent to regain his bearings. He, too, needed time to adjust once his wings had healed and he could fly once more… Now he had a proper foe to face. But once the Salamence locked eyes with him and nodded, all bets were off.

He’ll want to test his new skills. Have to keep him focused. Entertain his wish and maintain the objective.

- Fly upwards and dive down on him!

Beowulf growled in acknowledgement and soared as high as he could, but Solair gave chase. The hawk knew the Salamence couldn’t hit from above if there was no target below; with his superior speed, the Talonflame quickly caught up with Beowulf, but the dragon kept rising and rising, impervious to the increasingly high pressures thanks to his bulky build… but Solair faltered eventually, with his weaker frame. And as soon as the opponent lost altitude, Gale’s partner turned 180º and went into a nose dive, slamming into Solair and bringing both Pokemon crashing down from the skies like a single meteorite, on collision course with the ground!

The landing was so violent, a massive shockwave spread outwards, causing Gale to lose his footing and fall back, and his tent to fly away. In the crater left as a result, right at the center, was Beowulf gasping for air, and the prone body of a completely unconscious Solair sprawled beneath him!

It’s done. I win.

The cold, foreseen realization scared him more than anything else, and before he knew it, Gale had snapped back to his usual self. What had happened during the fight? It was like… a new side of him, a new Gale, had been asleep for years and had just woken up, another him that had been fighting his entire life and to whom Pokemon battles had no secrets. Like they were the most natural, most logical thing in the world.

He walked over to his Salamence, in awe of the majestic best Beowulf had become. He’d never seen one of his kind up close. Maybe he was even a match for Rhadamanthys now…

- You were incredible. I’m so proud of you!

Despite his fearsome appearance, Beowulf growled happily and nudged his Trainer. There was no doubt about it – the fight had made him stronger, and definitely happier. He still couldn’t believe he hadn’t seen this side of battling before.
He dropped to one knee and took the fallen bird in his arms. He felt much warmer than the usual Pokemon… Solair woke up soon afterwards, and it was only then that Gale noticed a small pouch strapped to one of his talons.

- Were you… holding back so you didn’t drop this? No, don’t answer. I guess it makes no difference. May I?

He unstrapped the pouch from Solair’s leg and opened it, dropping the contents on his palm. Three Pokeballs, and a small piece of paper.

”We might not run into each other again, but I hope you’re doing well. I’m sure you’re much stronger now than when we first met – if you’re not, you should look deep into yourself. I could tell right from the start there was greatness inside you waiting to be released. I trust you’ll keep these three safe, and give them everything I couldn’t. The day you start believing you can handle what comes out, that’s the day you’re ready.
Take care, and eyes on the sky!
Levin.”


Solair flew away from Gale’s arms and landed nearby, keeping his eyes on the young Windsor. Gale found himself not wanting to argue anymore – because after all, he did beat Solair, proving to himself that he was much stronger than he knew at first. He would welcome the Talonflame with open arms and raise him in a manner Levin Sanders himself would be proud! But what about the other three?...

Levin, why are you giving these to me? Why do you think I’d do a better job than you? But then again… I know better than to question someone like you. You know things I can’t even dream. So heck... if you say so, I’ll give it my all. I can handle what comes out.

With that, he tossed the three Pokeballs into the air, releasing their contents. To his left, a huge landed, with a look of absolute peace – transcendence, even? – in his eyes. To his right, a gigantic sea serpent coiled around and roared loudly, but remained still and observant in Gale’s presence, unlike any other he’d ever seen or heard of. And at the center, a determined-looking whose unparalleled fighting prowess was evident even as he remained motionless.

- Flygon, Haxorus and Gyarados? Why? Levin, what were you thinking? Don’t you need these for the League?...

He was talking to himself, his voice a mere whisper. But another voice, a silent one, told him something completely different.

This is Levin’s will. He too must have seen my dragon soul… It’s real, I know it now. That other Gale… I’ll embrace it, if Levin thinks I should. I will raise his dragons to the best of my ability, I will earn their trust… no, their friendship. They may seem unreachable, out of my league… but I befriended the mighty Rhadamanthys and gave Beowulf wings! I can do this… just you watch, Levin!!

- I’m… I’m Gale Windsor. Your former Trainer… he made me who I am today. He’s the reason I’m still alive to begin with… I promise you, I’ll be deserving of your strength and loyalty. So welcome, all of you: Alexander the Talonflame, Gilgamesh the Flygon, Ajax the Haxorus and Cuchulainn the Gyarados.

If I’m to be both meek bird and fierce dragon… so be it.
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