Title: Union League: Journey to the Beginning
Author: Dark Angel Murdoc
Rating: Mature
Disclaimer: I do not own Pokémon, it's related games/shows, characters, and I make no money from the writing of this story.

Character Disclaimer: Rift Reyvon, Myu Zodel, Strider Kolos, and their significant Pokémon character models (ex: Ki'alla, Sage, etc.) are my creations. Draco Falconi belongs to his namesake. Slash and Psymakio belong to Slash Firestorm. All significant Pokémon characters of the before mention characters belong to each individual respectively.

Welcome all to my first Pokémon fan fiction. This is a collaboration piece with my good friend Draco Falconi…not to mention my first try at one. I provide the original story basis, the story arc, and so forth. Draco in-turn helps with accuracy, information of the Pokémon world, his character's involvement, aids in forming new ideas, and serving as the beta reader.I have to give more credit where credit is due though. I would not have created this story if it not for the story "Sinners", created by Slash Firestorm(found at AFF), which inspired me to write this tale. It is by far the best Pokémon fan fiction I have read and I recommend that you go read it! (…but please read this first, since you're already here ^_^; ) I also thank him for allowing me to use his characters in my story! Much appreciated!At the end of each chapter, I will list the Pokémon each trainer is using at the story's present time & as they appear(some of the story is told in flashbacks). My last note is the Story Key, which simply lists how certain transitions and speech patterns are represented.

Story Key
Speech
"Dialogue"
'Thought'
(Telepathy)
(Communications Device)

General
---------- - Change in Time and/or Setting
////////// - Entering/Exiting Flashback
*Sound* - Significant Perimeter Sounds

Alright, that's enough from me! On with the show! Enjoy!
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Chapter 1: Before the Eyes of Millions

"Well…this is it. Are you ready?" a fair-toned male voice asks, knowing full well what answer he will hear.

"N-no…b-but, we must do this. We can't back out now," a light, yet trembling feminine voice replies.

She was right. Everything they strived for... Everything that has happened…

The good and bad times they endured...
The blessings and rejections of the people they encountered...
The laughter and the tears they shared…

It all led up to today. Not one regret. Not one doubt. It was all worth it…for today.

Today…a new era of human kind and Pokémon alike is about to be revealed. A time where the very understanding of the world they live in will change. The outcome: nobody knows. All they know is simply what they believe.

The brave souls prepare to make their stand. To change this world in such a grand manner…such is a difficult task. They lay everything on the line, not once thinking of turning back.

"It's now or never," the man proclaims, stepping into the light, braving it all.

The times must change. They must...or this world...is doomed.

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"Hello everyone! I'm your host today, the fabulous reporter, Felicity! We are here on location live, southeast of Goldenrod City at the newly constructed Serenity Stadium! Who owns this wonderful marble stadium? Nobody knows, but we aren't here today to find that out!" the spunky television reporter announces, with an ever present smile on her face, full of energy. She couldn't help it even she tried, for this was her first live broadcast since her promotion to reporter, not so long ago. With her team in tow, they had everything set up and were present outside the stadium hours ahead of schedule. The members of her team didn't understand why she wanted to be there so early. They were contracted to be the main team in charge of covering the event. The option to gripe all they wanted to was there, but they stayed and got to work ASAP. That and if they gave her a lot of grief, she would give them hell only a hyper reporter like herself could dish out.

There they stood, outside the entrance etched into the beautiful marble walls of the newest stadium to grace Johto. The sun was hanging high in the sky, indicating the time to be around noon. The suns brilliant rays glistened off the stone structure, accenting the arena's features and picturesque designs. It was a beautiful day for sure and the best day for a gathering such as this. All of this was viewed through the TV's station's video camera and more, as the camera fell upon all those chosen to see the event in person making their way into the stadium.

"No! Today we are here for something truly mind-boggling. The strange fact surrounding this event: nobody knows for sure what it is about! Rumor has it that this will be one of the greatest occurrences of our lifetime, and many lifetimes to come! This is something that can't be missed! The authenticity of these rumors have been given some benefit of the doubt, with famous professors such as Oak, Birch, Elm, and Rowan backing these rumors with a strong confidence! This is sure to be a tremendously exciting occasion! How tremendous you ask? Big enough that this is being broadcasted all over the world, from Hoenn all the way up to Sinnoh! We may not know what we will see today, but you better believe we won't miss one bit of the action!" she proclaims with a cheerful smile, eager to please her fans. Becoming rather impatient all of a sudden while she checks her watch, she quickly proclaims, "We still have time before the event is to take place, soooo…ummm……let's……let's see if we can't get some reactions from the crowd, shall we?"

She scans the crowd in hope of finding someone who may have anything interesting to say about today. Among all of the researchers, officials, and other members of the press…you'd think there would be someone to talk to. Just about ready to call it quits and hurry inside the stadium, she spotted a familiar and very famous individual who she was sure would have something to say.

"Professor Oak! Excuse me, professor?" Felicity called out, as she ran up to him, afraid of losing him in the crowd. Managing to gain his attention, she got straight to the point, "Professor, do you mind answering a few questions for us before everything gets under way?"

"Very well miss. What would you like to ask me?" he responded kindly, unable to help but smile to see such a lively person as her wanting to interview him. He was an important figure certainly, but he was rarely interviewed for any reason outside of his research.

"Tell me sir, are the rumors true? What we are to see, is it truly mind blowing? If so, what is it?" she asked, her youthful energy clearly abound in her eyes

He couldn't help but chuckle a little. Not at the question, but how determined she sounded. Sadly he had to disappoint her.

"I'm sorry dear, but there isn't much I can say on the matter. However, I can say a little something. One thing is true for sure; you don't want to miss today if you can help it. The reason I know this is because the man that's responsible for all of this…he is a dear friend of mine."

Like a roller coaster, her facial expressions traveled from excitement, to disappointment, and then sheer delight as she followed the professor's words. His answer may have not been exactly what she had hoped for, but to learn this little piece of info was something else all on its own. Professor Oak knew who was behind all of this? Just who could this man be? Though it wasn't much of a clue in the long run, seeing as how Oak would likely know many people, but being a close friend made it that much more interesting. Patience never was her best attribute, but all that was left was to wait and see…

----------

With no troubles to speak of, everyone had managed to arrive safely and be seated accordingly, with only moments to spare till the event began. Inside the stadium, everyone was seated on the widened spectator's area to one side of the stadium. Down on the field, closest to their bleachers, was a small stage equipped with a microphone stand and small red curtain, with battlefield zone markings right behind it.

To say that speculation seemed to be today's main hobby would be an understatement. The ideas that these people would come up with were quite ridiculous. They ranged anywhere from cruel prank to the horrid thought this was a ruse to some evil plan.

"Honestly, don't you think they are being a little irrational?" Rowan asked his colleagues, looking up in disappointment at the crowd…though with his facial features, it was always hard to tell his mood without the aid of his voice. "You think that giving our own word on the matter would relax them a little."

"I agree. They are being a quite edgy, that's for sure," agreed Birch, not one to tell his friend otherwise. Yes, they may be edgy, but you also can't honestly blame them. Their attitudes were reasonably understandable enough, given the circumstances, even with their word of approval.

Oak simply nodded his head, just eager to see how their friend would prevail. On the other hand, Elm looked as if he was going to pop and go on some kind of lecture. Thankfully, for their sake, the event appeared to finally start, with the lights slowly dimming and a spotlight shining down at the stage. Slowly, a tune similar to the nation's Pokémon league themes started to hum over the surrounding speakers. The red curtain parted slightly as a tall, well built male figure walked out onto center stage. The man had black, shoulder length hair that was slightly spiked and brushed backwards at the top, with a long, single bang falling in front of his peaceful face and tranquil blue eyes. Meanwhile, his clothing consisted of black boots, dark blue slacks, a supposedly sleeveless gray shirt, a crimson sash tied around his waist, black fingerless leather gloves, and a white lab coat draped over his shoulders.

In a formal fashion, he greeted everyone by waving to the crowd and showed his appreciation with a proper bow. Certainly, this was the man that had called them here today. Finally the mystery would be unraveled, as the man did not hesitate to take hold of the microphone.

"I greet you, one and all, from those in this very stadium to those watching across the globe! My name is Rift Reyvon...and welcome to my stadium! Now, I have no doubt that you have many questions. Why are you here? Why the elaborate set up? What is this all about? I will answer these, and any more that I can," he explained, taking his time and gauging the crowd's reaction.

"The reason you are here is that I require witnesses to bear truth to what I have to show you all. For those of you that may be worried, please don't be. Nothing dangerous will fall upon you. Why must I have witnesses? More than the sake of it's proof of authenticity, I assure you. I wanted to share this special occasion with those who will most likely appreciate it, or in the very least, be very curious to what I hold secret. However, truth be told, it was also required that an unveiling be held to make my announcement official, so I chose how and when. As far as the set up goes, I found it necessary to be able to elaborate my point here, in the stadium I created…and I don't do well in stuffy conference rooms. It is not meant to be a conference hall of any sort, but in fact deals with the very thing I have to present to you all. What is it that I have to show you today? Something that will forever change our lives by adding a new chapter to the book of life!"

The crowd couldn't help but burst out into a mixture of confused chatter and cheers of approval, encouraging him to continue on. They may not know what it was for sure, but anything beyond the feeling of being lost in such a mystery is only fun for so long. It was finally time to see what it is that this man had to offer and see if his words hold true to his claim.

"Before I reveal the entire mystery behind my big secret...perhaps a demonstration is in order and will serve as a visual aid for afterwards…" Rift proclaims, calmly leaving the microphone and walking off to the edge of the stage to his left. While doing so, he removed his lab coat, allowing it to fall onto the stage, revealing two black arm warmers that reached up to his elbows, fastened in place with steel clasps. Hopping off of the stage, he then made his way to the right side of the battlefield. The people did not make a sound and could only watch his actions, their many questions trying to grasp for answers that may appear at any moment.

"Sage! It's time!" he calls out, taking his stand, the ever-calm look replaced with one of determination. The spectator's questions fell silent for a moment as their eyes slowly fell upon the opposite stadium entrance to see a Lucario stroll into the open. Paying the spectators no attention, the proud Pokémon walks towards the arena, coming to a halt on the opposing side of the field. The silent questioning continued throughout the crowd once more. Is this a Pokémon battle? If so, what could be so amazing from what they have seen before? Someone observing these questions would think it strange that they once didn't ponder the 'what if it isn't a battle?' possibility never crossed their minds. They could only sit there and watch as the two figures on the field stood there, eyes locked.

"Ready?" Rift inquired, finally breaking the tension in the air. With a grunt of approval, Sage nodded his head and took a fighting stance. "Then at the count of one!" All discussions ceased at once, as if their voices were taken away by his command. It was time to see what this man has called the entire world to see.

'Watch us everyone…'
"Three!" Sage emitted his aura around his hands. The people loomed over their seats…

'Now, as we give you a great show…'
"Two!" Rift prepared himself, his right hand lowering near the pokéballs at his side…

'One that you will never forget!'
"One!" As if the bell had finally rung, it began!

All eyes instantaneously latched onto Sage, who immediately darted forward into the arena, readying his first attack. Not one person noticed Rift's actions, till he did not present a Pokémon…but instead, dashed toward the Lucario, preparing to meet him in the middle, his right fist clenched and reeled back for an attack!

"What in the world is he doing? Does he know that he is going to get himself killed?!" These would be the questions to be shouted in pure shock, but the alarm this action created froze everyone where they sat, silent as the wind.

The two combatants converged in the middle, sliding to a halt, revving back their attacks, and meeting each other, fist to fist! The collision of the strike shook the confused tension in the air, giving them, and the audience, only a moment to assess what had just happened. To the people, it would only appear to be a feat of pure strength and luck that this man survived the blow from the Lucario. How else could this be explained?

The fighters shifted apart, waiting for the other to make the next move. Sage breaks the momentary standoff, coming in with a quick left jab. Rift dodges the punch by crouching low to the ground, countering with a leg sweep. The Pokémon leaps into the air to avoid the attack, performing a mid-air flip, and following up with a drop kick. Managing to connect successfully with his target, he glances down only to see that Rift managed to block it with his arms, as he stayed crouched to absorb the attack. Taking the opportunity, Rift grabbed the offending leg, pulling him in closer while simultaneously rising to meet him with his right knee. It was impossible to evade the assault, and Sage took it full force in the stomach, sending him back into the air. Being unable to deliver a counter attack, Sage did what he could and recomposed himself as he landed. Glaring back at his opponent, he saw a unique glint in his eyes and laughed to himself. Warm up was over.

This quick skirmish served its purpose and captured all possible attention. Luck apparently had nothing to do with Rift's ability to fight with the Lucario. It was if he was on par with the Pokémon, in speed and in power. How such a feat is possible, no one could fathom. They could only watch and wait, now excited to see what would happen next.

Once again staring each other down, it seemed to be Rift's turn to act first. Though his action seemed rather odd for a regular attack. He started by positioning his hands to one side, as if he was holding a ball. The rest of his body shifted into a ready stance, with a look of deep concentration surrounding him. Sage noticed what he was doing and prepared himself. He was not going to make this easy. Then, as if on cue, everyone gasped at what they saw became of this strange act…

First, a flash of what appeared to be blue flames wafted around his hands. Steadily, the flames swirled around towards the center of the space between his hands. As if compressed, the building blaze began to curve and form a small orb. The azure sphere of fire grew and grew until it appeared complete and pulsing with energy. Not one person could deny what they saw now. This was no mere ball of fire…

Rift, this mysterious man, had done something no man has ever conceived of doing…the impossible. He had performed the special Pokémon move, Aura Sphere! The blue flames whirling around inside the sphere was not fire, but his very aura!

No time was open for even a single thought beyond this, for just as soon as he created it he launched it towards Sage. The Pokémon stood his ground, with the blast making contact and kicking up a cloud of dust. Figuring it wouldn't be enough to defeat his tough opponent, Rift began charging another Aura Sphere. His hunch was virtually right, as his opponent shot out from the dust cloud, unscathed and charged towards him. Even though his sphere was not fully charged, he hurled it, Sage narrowly avoiding it by leaping to one side. Not appearing to be backing down from his current strategy, Rift began to unleash a series of low charged spheres at the Lucario, hoping to catch him with one to create an opening.

Not wishing to be caught off guard by this trick, Sage instantly began to use one of his own moves. To doge such a number of attacks, he used ExtremeSpeed, which made dodging the aura orbs almost effortless. Just as a sphere passes over his head, he lowers his body closer to the ground, making his final move to close the gap between them. Appearing right before his adversary, ready to pay him back with a knee rise of his own, Rift changed his stance, bringing his right hand in front of him and to Sage's level.

'Force Palm!' he thought, recognizing this move as well, opting out of his attack for a split second dodge, by leaping into the air, flying up and over, and landing right behind Rift. Realizing at once upon his landing that Rift never unleashed his attack...It was a bluff! Then in one swift action, the two rotated in place, and with complete symmetry, they performed a roundhouse kick, connecting in the air with great force. Neither fighter budged an inch from this attack. They merely stood there, locked in this form.

"I think that wraps it up today, don't you think?" asked Rift, who couldn't help but give a delighted chuckle, slowly returning to his regular posture.

(I agree,) Sage answered, doing the same, crossing his arms with a pleased look. His trainer…or rather his friend was a rare human indeed. Though not only for his abilities, but also his character.

In turn, they looked back to the crowd, whom instead of bursting into questions remained dead silent. Rift would have laughed at the sight…but he chose to keep it to himself for the moment. He was modestly pleased that he had already made such a huge impression. Unfortunately, the fun little presentation was over and now had to take the full blow of what he had to say next. The questions he would now receive and all the emotions that will accompany his answers.

Rift then approached the stage once more with Sage following shortly after him. Stepping back onto the stand, he picked up his lab coat and put it back on, calmly taking his position in front of the microphone once more, Sage now standing to his left. To make sure everyone's senses were still with the audience, Rift cleaned his throat, which gained an immediate result. Now with everyone present once again, he began where he left off.

"I have no doubt that this display has you all wondering one thing or another at this point. Please, hold your questions for but a moment. What you have seen…was the presentation of a dream. A goal. It was the dawn of a new age. A new age for all of us, humans and all Pokémon alike! What I have called you all here to bear witness to is the escort to this new era. My vision and creation…The Union League!" he divulged with much pride and vigor. A roar of questions swept over the crowd, wanting to know everything from what he meant to when it was formed. Rift let them bicker for a minute, taking the moment to glance at Oak and the other professors. Confidence was with them, knowing full well that he understood what he was doing. They were there to support him, though not knowing any of the specific details. He was doing something important, to him and for all. That was enough, and they nodded to him, encouraging him to go on.

"Please! Be calm!" he called out to everyone, raising his hands up high to ask for silence. "I ask that you try and hold your questions. I will answer all that I can." Apparently, asking for a mere moment was a bit much after all. He gave a sigh of relief as they slowly calmed down.

"Yes, the Union League. A special league that holds with it infinite possibilities. What you saw was no trick or illusion. In fact, it is part of the main focus of my creation. The special nature of the league is, in part, its method's of combat. It's as you saw…where the trainer themselves are able to enter the field of battle, either against a Pokémon or another trainer. This in turn works along with its true purpose, the very heart of the league…to bring humans and Pokémon together closer than we have ever been. Not only in the ability to fight alongside them and being able to use their abilities…but to form bonds with them far greater than what we have now. To make us better friends…even family." He expressed, taking a moment to glance over at Sage. The proud Pokémon couldn't help but smile at his friend's heartfelt words.

"Be warned, however, that this league differs from others, aside from the aforementioned traits. Here, only those who are truly devoted and have strong purpose behind their convictions are able to become a part of the Union League. If one is weak of spirit and in reason, they will sadly not be able to enter. It is not to say that they lack strength or ability…but they lack the truth in one's heart and determination of will to go beyond what they normally perceive. Pure physical or mental strength will not be enough. To obtain such power and skill, one must have focus. This is but one of the many things you will come to learn as I train those willing to come and study under me." His words seemed to calm many a mind, as he could see a warm tranquility overcome the confusion.

"Now…I open the floor to any questions."

Any and all reporters tried to climb down from the stadium seats to make sure their queries were heard. Giving up shortly after trying, for it was just too crowded, they resorted to yelling out any question that first came to mind, hoping that theirs would be heard. The only odd one out of the crowd, aside from the four professors, was Felicity, who decided to take note of any question she heard and jotted them down along with her own. She knew she could get his attention when ready…why else would she carry a megaphone?

"I've got some good questions for you Mr. Reyvon!" Felicity shouted over her personal megaphone, cutting through the yells of the others, having collected her notes. Rift looked straight at her, a faint smile on his face. He didn't guess that such a highly spirited person like her would get his attention through all that so quickly.

"Very well, what's on your mind?" he invited her to continue, while everyone silenced themselves to hear what they had to say.

"That was quite an amazing display you showed us…How is it possible to do that? I thought humans couldn't use Pokémon abilities?" was her first attempt for answers, confidence still present in her eyes.

"That sadly, I can not answer fully," Rift admitted gaining an expected, disappointed response from the crowd. "I can only say this: the complexity of how to use such skills is part of my teachings and can't be described in such a small amount of time. Even if I could…heh, well in the end, that's a secret."

Felicity overlooked the lack of details and thought over his answer carefully. It sounded like he was telling the truth, though secrets never sat well with her. Though, what reason would he have to lie about this? "Hmmm, I guess it makes sense when you put it that way. Though I'm curious, can anyone accomplish what you have done?"

Now this question could be answered straightforward, no problem, "I believe so, or I would have not formed this league. As long as they follow my teachings and keep what I have said earlier in mind and in heart…then they should be able to reach the level I have. Possibly greater. What's more, being a trainer isn't required. I never was. Least not until a few years ago, before the league was established."

"That brings me to my next question. How is it that you were able to create the Union League?" this question being one that should be answered straight and true. If not, it was certain that something shady was behind it.

"The league's ideals were of my creation, but in order to officially create it, I needed approval from many officials. Four of those whom I sought support for it would be the professors Oak, Elm, Birch, and Rowan. I asked them their thoughts on my idea, and they loved it. To further support me, they offered to aid in the essential funding, at least until I produced the means to support it on my own. To save them from some questioning, the reason they helped me was beyond simply liking my idea, but because I used to help each of them. I mentioned that I wasn't a trainer until a few years ago. That's because I was a lab assistant, originally under Birch, then aided the others over time. This allowed me to journey to each of the great nations and gain much experience and knowledge in many different fields. I hope that answered your question fully miss," he finished, hoping not to reveal too much. Not many would like to hear that he was counting on receiving students real soon…because he will need their funding in the upcoming months. He couldn't feed off of the professors forever, nor did he tend to.

Felicity was practically in overdrive now. Not only was she extremely happy to be here for this monumental event, but also more so that she seemed to be covering it all on her own, getting all the questions out. Though she would love to see this day go on, she had to finish up with the questions she herself originally written down.

"Yes it did, and then some, thank you. We now know a little about you," she gleefully said with a playful wink. Seeming to have no effect on him beyond a chuckle, she pressed on. "Now, one very important issue that needs to be addressed. How will the Union League work with the nations and their own leagues?"

"Good question. This issue has already been resolved and this is what we came up with. To start off, my league will not interrupt or cause problems with the other nations. They will go on as they always have. What effect the league will have, which will flow into all the nations in form of essence and culture, is something to be determined by the people, though I suspect it will take some time for it to meld into today's society. We have not fully talked about gyms at this moment, though there are plans for them in the future. I'm to produce results based on my progress with students to plan any further. The point we have reached is that we wish to develop two gyms in each nation, with the starting point being at my dojo and the finish line to be right here in this stadium. Now, I believe that should cover all aspects of my relation with the nations," he conferred, not one to favor talking about legal matters. Being a free spirit of sorts, dealing with fine print was never his favorite activity.

"How about the rules of the league? You mention strong morals and determination, but what else is there?" her ever-present delight was still there, but with a more serious feel emitted from her as well. She was hanging on his every word, analyzing everything he said.

"Yes, indeed. I have a few, but simple rules. To be able to enter, you must be at least 18 years of age. This assures me that your mind, heart, body, and soul will have at least the minimum you should need to endure what I have to teach. When you have acquired such skills, you will be able to choose on different battle settings. Pokémon Vs. Pokémon. Trainer vs. Trainer. Pokémon vs. Trainer. Even matches while you fight with your friends. In certain occasions, special rules will be set for battles, but those will be announced before hand. As for how many Pokémon you can use…it is still six, but there is something extra. It's more of a practice than a rule. I wish those who study under me to pick and stay with only six Pokémon. This helps you form bonds with them, for they are always with you. You may switch, but make sure you really want to, ask yourself why you are doing so, and decide if you really should. There are going to be times where this might happen, cannot be avoided, or is required for a certain reason. Some people and Pokémon just aren't compatible, just like us humans aren't compatible with some other humans." Rift explained, setting all the rules down…though there wasn't that many.

The meeting seemed to be able to go on forever, but now was a good time as any to try to wrap things up. After all, she thought she got enough information for one day…and could always ask for an interview later. Just one more question for now, "Mr. Reyvon, one last question if you don't mind…what was it that inspired you to create such a league?"

This struck a chord in him obviously, due to his change of expression. Outside, he seemed distraught, but inside he was afraid. Not that it was a matter of answering the question, that was easy…but how he was going to answer it. In this time, no matter what the relation, it just wasn't accepted or going to be acceptable. Least not without a fight…and that's what he was there to do. This league had one more goal. To protect them and give them, and others like them, a fighting chance, no matter what their relationship is or may be. This was but step one and now it was time to take it.

Settling into a calm, determined standing and clearing his throat, Rift answered her question, "After this question, I will be calling this meeting to a close. Any other inquiries may be asked at a later scheduled date and time. Now…as to what inspired me, you ask? Many things have inspired me, from working with the Professors to going on my travels, all the while meeting new and interesting people and Pokémon…as well as their relations. I will now show you just one source of my inspiration. I warn you, this is no illusion and I expect confusion among you all. It is as you see…Ki'alla, you may come out now."

Before their very eyes, a new wonder had appeared before them. What appeared to be a young girl walked out from behind the red curtain, dressed in a suit that made her appear as a rare, golden Vulpix. Adorning her petite figure was a lovely dark red sundress, a pair of matching shoes, and her tails flowing out of the bottom of the dress. Walking slowly towards Rift's right side, it was evident to anyone paying close attention from her slightly shaking figure that she was scared. The man could not blame her…he was scared as well, though his reasons differed slightly from hers. He moved to grab her hand as she came close to him, soothing some of her fears away. It did not change the fact that she was being stared at, something she has never dealt with…until now.

The noise that came from the crowd at this new turn of events became quite a mix now. It ranged from calm discussions, to whistling and catcalls, to random outbursts of rude remarks. That last one on the list moved Rift's previous still and kind demeanor as he yelled above the crowd, "Enough! Do not react before you know the details! It's taking her a lot of courage to come before you! Show some damn form of decency!"

Quickly, everyone become complacent with his sudden demand, but not out respect for his wish…but out of fear. While the truth in his words was there, they knew now that he was a force to be reckoned with and not one to be taken lightly. They also didn't know the slightest detail to her when they thought about it. Just as quick as he spoke these words and everyone settled, he became relaxed once more. He looked down at the girl, who was now grasping his right hand tightly. She wasn't used to massive crowds, but this was important to him and she did not want to disappoint. She would help in any way she could, no matter what.

"Allow me to explain. This young girl's name by my side is Ki'alla and she is no human dressed in some outfit. She is in fact, a Pokémon," he holds up his other hand instantly to keep everyone quiet. "She is very special, as you can see, but in ways other than her appearance."

Alas, just as a strong dam holding back a roaring ocean with a single crack will eventually break, so did his attempt to keep the foul at bay with his previous actions.

"You just messed with her DNA and turned her human! Don't give us that crap!"

"It's illegal, too! Why would you do such a thing?!"

"I can tell you why exactly! It's because he's a damn perverted Poké-pedophile!"

"He turned her into a damn freak for his own enjoyment!"

"Creep couldn't hold onto a girl, so he turned a Pokémon into a human instead!"

"Yea! Why else would he do it? It's not like she asked for that to happen to her! She can't talk!"

"You're all wrong!"

Everyone was silenced by that sudden outburst. Who did that come from? It certainly wasn't from the crowd and sounded like a shriek of anger from a highly enraged child. It dawned on them only seconds later as everyone gazed back towards the stage. No longer shaking like a tree in the wind was the golden, humanoid vulpix Ki'alla, standing firm, eyes burning with fury. For the second time today, the world's perception of the world went straight out the window. She…could talk? How?

"Rift is not some monster or wretched pig! We don't know how I turned human, except that I have changed to what you see and there is no changing back! Even if there were a way, I wouldn't want to! He has always been there for me and I don't care what you believe…but he's the kindest person I've ever met. He wouldn't do anything to hurt me or anyone else. He simply protects us. Please don't hate him…please…" she stated while falling to the ground, tears in her eyes, completely loosing her composure after such a sudden flare of emotions. Sage, who has been on guard for any trouble that may threaten Rift's safety at the time, stepped over to his upset friend and kneeled beside her. With a confident nod that she would be all right, Rift returned to the crowd one final time.

"Ki'alla…she is part of my inspiration that created all of this. Not for what she is…not for what she has turned into…but for who she is. The matter of her transformation is something I am still looking into, but without tampering with her genetic code, I assure you. I don't play Arceus with my friends, or anyone else for that matter. However, she does symbolize one of the many things I strive to show to the world! Human and Pokémon relations like none have witnessed or experienced before!" he proclaimed, feeling like he was on top of the world.

In a swift, smooth motion, he stepped out from behind the microphone stand, with Ki'alla and Sage watching him all the while. With hands held high, standing proud, declaring loud and clear, "Come, if you wish to join the league and experience a brand new world! Come, if you wish to challenge me to decide your thoughts! Come, if you believe I'm sinning, and teach me your truth! Do what you wish! Just get ready! For the Union League has arrived…and we are here to stay!"

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Well, there you have it! The formation of The Union League! What will become of it? Nobody knows, but it is certain that Rift will go to any lengths to protect it and those close to him!

Please rate and review to your hearts content! I really want to know what you all think! All supportive and constructive (positive or negative) reviews will be taken into consideration, all opinions (good or bad) and compliments will be taken to heart, and all flaming and the like will be ignored, for the most part. Don't worry; I know the difference between a review and a real flame/attack. Hope to hear from you!

Now, here it is, as mentioned: The Current Pokémon list (displayed as Male(M), Female(F), None(N)/Pokémon – Name). Till next time!

Rift's Pokémon
F/Vulpix – Ki'alla
M/Lucario – Sage