Disclaimer: I do not own the Pokémon games, anime or Pokémon Adventures/Special. Japan claims ownership of the franchise - especially Nintendo - with their copyright infringement issues and what not. Unfortunately, I do not own the cover photos for either History nor Eventide. What I do have ownership over is fanon material, the series I plan to publish on here and my OCs. No profit will be made for the series whatsoever.
A/N: I was trying to get this chapter up on 7 January, although life got in the way. The amount of homework for Mechanical Engineering is a lot; not counting the accelerated Latin class I am taking. As they say: Better late than never.
As of 12/30/15, the poll is now open. Cast your votes; the poll will close once I release chapter 5.
A/N: I will now address my reviewers and the people who have messaged, alerted and/or favorited me.
KsandraMallan: Although I do love strategy games, I have to admit that I would not be an ideal strategist nor tactician in real life. Thank you for volunteering your ideas.
PositiveCharm416: I was really happy to receive both a PM and review from you.
striah: Todd Haberkorn is one of my favorite voice actors; he plays a lot of my favorite characters from other anime, i.e. Death the Kid, Hikaru Hiitachin, Kimhiro Watanuki. I fell out of the Pokémon anime a decade ago, so I had no idea that Todd voiced Cheren until I read Bulbapedia and watched his portrayal - I think he did well with his Tsukune Aono voice. As with White, the Black in this series has a completely different personality from his Pokémon Special counterpart (as the storyline came from Pokémon Black, not Special). It would be imprudent to assign him a voice that does not suit his characterization here. Out of the three main protagonists, Black is the most complex to write; he is driven by the compulsion to save his mother and would resort to revenge if he needs to - though he puts on a face to hide his pain. Black, depending on the situation, would speak in either Sasuke's or Suzaku's voice.
I can see why you imagined Bryce Papenbrook as Black. However, Bryce Papenbrook voices Red (I know he was the English VA for Red in Pokémon Origins, which sort of influenced my decision). Bryce has voiced characters like Henry, Aido, Kirito, Clay Sizenmore and Rin Okumura, demonstrating versatility with his roles. Since Red is a well-beloved character, a lot of people would have differing opinions on who should voice Red. Well, the fanfic is rated T for coarse language, violence and a lot of other reasons. I don't buy into the notion that N has the vocabulary of a child - his thoughts were too eloquent and philosophical in BW/BW2. I never understood why I chose Johnny Yong Bosch as N until I saw Johnny's portrayal as Lelouch. I was like, that's why! I'm not a Spongebob fan. However, I'm glad you found that part funny. As for Cheren's bigger part in the plot, it's much more pivotal than being a chef. That scene was fun to write, as it fleshed out Cheren more (which I should've done in History) and shows his friendships with Platina and White.
The Natural Type was a nod toward OHSHC, which Laura Bailey, Caitlin Glass, Monica Rial and Todd Haberkorn all starred in. Anyway, welcome back!
shippofan2k: Thank you for the response and follow/favorite. Welcome back!
ImaginationIsAwesome123: Thank you for the reply and I hope to see your return.
TheLightEthereal: Thank you for the response. I hope to see your return.
Alumina: Thank you for responding to my PM and conversing with me.
MammonDaughter: Thank you for the response.
kallen10: Thank you for the favoriting and welcome back!
Noah Akuma: Gracias por responder. Debo aprender màs espaňol.
HylianShadowhunter: Thank you for following/favoriting the series and welcome to the family! I hope to see you here.
The Noble Maidens: Thank you for following/favoriting the series and welcome to the family! I hope to see you here.
Haru-Artemis: Thank you for the response. I look forward to your answer.
Reaper-of-Lost-Souls: Thank you for following/favoriting this story and welcome to the family! I hope to see you here.
KukikoHana: Thank you for following/favoriting the story and welcome to the family! I hope to see you here.
Julianna Tala: Thank you for following/favoriting this series and welcome to the family! I hope to see you here.
Mara121: Thank you for following/favoriting History and welcome! Hopefully you're keeping up with the sequel.
neon-green-violin-27: Thank you for everything :)
A/N: I will now address the reviewers from Chapters 7-11 in descending order.
Chapter 11:
thewookie1: Actually, White's father turned out to be Red. I wanted Platina to be paired up with either Ash's Pokémon Special counterpart or Gary's. From the way I was writing White, it made sense for Red to be the father, not Blue/Green.
MissBayley: That's something Black would do, not White.
stirias: Thank you so much! I thought that doing a transition between characters was a good idea. Thank you for thinking I had captured the characters perfectly :) I hope you to see here.
Chapter 10:
ohsnapitsemilysong: Thank you. I look forward to seeing you here.
Ashura-B: My mistakes were horrid, I admit that. But your advice in the long run was beneficial to polishing my writing skills. Thank you for thinking the plot was unique and exciting.
MissBayley: They'll poke and prod any way. It's an Adventure/Romance fanfic.
KsandraMallan: Thank you! I am pleased you came back for Eventide. .
Chapter 9:
MissBayley: How is imprisonment homosexually inclined? I'm confused.
Lollisalol: Well, I hope you will see that Eventide is here.
Chapter 8:
thewookie1: Originally it was Diamond!Dawn. After serious consideration, I decided to make Platina Arellano Berlitz into a completely different incarnation from her anime, manga or game counterparts.
Guest: Assuming you are the same one who reviewed History, I did take your constructive criticism and gradually used "albeit" less. As for White punching N in the face, it was a Twilight reference. That reference was meant for comedic purposes. Thank you for thinking that about my story.
MammonDaughter: Thank you for that. In the re-editing and revision of History, I corrected that mistake. I hope to see you make a reappearance in Eventide.
MissBayley: Click indeed.
Lollisalol: You praise my work so much, and that means a lot to me. Thank you.
askthejackfrost: Well, the end will be the epilogue of the final book of the For the Love of a King series. You were correct with the deduction that MangaPearlshipping's child is White herself.
ohsnapitsemilysong: Thank you. Are you naomi by any chance?
Chapter 7:
LoveAndSerenity: Assuming that you read the rest of History, White's mother is named Platina Arellano Berlitz, who went under one of her aliases, Dawn Snow, for more than one reason. Like Platinum and Dawn, Platina is from Sinnoh. As of Eventide, N is letting go of that aspect of him.
Inadvertently. Platina had a different idea of Pokémon liberation. Although Platina is intelligent and good-natured, she can be arrogant and prideful.
I'm sorry about having them speak so formally. I spoke in a formal manner when I was a teenager, and I had to try hard to speak informally. Hopefully, N and White are less informal now. As for thinking that the story is good, thank you. Let me pray to Arceus that you would read Eventide one day.
Lovetime3579: I toned it down to a minimum because of your critique. As for using the word "albeit", it was also used less often throughout the first installment. Thank you and I hope to see you here.
MissBayley: Yes.
Lollisalol: Luxray is one of my favorite Pokémon in Generation IV. That's why Platina had her on the team. Thank you again for thinking that fanfic was a worthwhile read.
ohmysnapitsemilysong: I am glad you think it is good. Thank you.
A/N: Well, it's that time already. Let's give it up for a guest from another series I like - Soul!
Soul (sighs): Interviews are so uncool.
ExaltedLight: I'm absolutely obsessed with the series you're in, Soul.
Soul: . . . The dub or sub?
ExaltedLight: The one where you share the same voice actor as Silver.
Soul: Uh . . . dude, which one is that?
ExaltedLight (eyes flash): I meant Kamui in Tsubasa: Tokyo Revelations.
Soul: Kid's seiyuu voiced Kamui there; I guess you're talking about my English -
ExaltedLight: MAKA CHOP!
Soul (flinches): You're as violent as Maka! Maka has enough strength to be a gorilla -
Maka (appears): Did you just call me a gorilla, Soul?
(I'll leave it to your imagination as to what happens next)
A/N: Red, Platina, Silver, White, Black and Blake are their own distinct characters, even though their characterizations are loosely inspired by their counterparts (RBY/FRLG, DPP, GSC/HGSS, BW, B2W2, Pokémon Adventures/Special, Pokémon Origins). Remember that there is a poll.
A/N: Instead of Furvus Imperium, the syndicate will now be known as Furvum Imperium. As I mentioned, I'm taking Latin. In Latin, words fall under three declensions and genders - feminine, masculine and neuter. Furvus is a Latin adjective whereas imperium is a neuter noun; the purpose of an adjective is to modify a noun.
In English, that is easy whereas in Latin, the case numbers/declensions must match both the Latin noun and adjective in order for it to be grammatically correct. Since furvus is in masculine nominative form, it cannot be used with imperium. In order to make furvus neuter and therefore match imperium, I change furvus into furvum. In other words, both the genders and declensions had to match for furvus and imperium.
A/N: Reviews, feedback, constructive criticism and critique are strongly encouraged, with flaming being a zero tolerance.
A/N: I decided to recon fanon in this chapter. My apologies, Sky Slayer. In addition, I decided to integrate the others' PoVs when it comes to Battle Royales.
A/N: Note that the perspectives are happening at the same time. My beta reader and I present to you the latest chapter, "Battle Royale Part II".
"You think you know a story, but you only know how it ends. To get to the heart of a story, you have to go back to the beginning." - King Henry VIII, The Tudors
"The moon flower opens its white, trumpet-like flowers at eventide." - Google definition
For the Love of a King: Eventide
Chapter 3: Battle Royale Part II
White's PoV.
After Bianca, Cheren, my mother, Iris and I finished eating, we had searched the Evanses' home for Black but to no avail. My mother had left notes behind for Red, Drayden, Black and N in case they returned here. Once my mother was done, Iris had informed us that Opelucid City had temporarily halted their boat service in the wake of the pipeline malfunctioning. That was unfortunate because the boats sailed into the heart of Historic Opelucid City faster and quicker than any other method of travelling. Iris would've ridden her bicycle, except Drayden had accidentally taken its padlock key. So Ma had offered her Bicycle to Iris, who accepted graciously.
That was how Iris ended up leading the way; the road she had taken ran next to a small brook which cut through Opelucid City. After ten minutes of seeing nothing but greenery and modest housing, the road branched into a crossroads. Iris veered over to the leftmost road and lost so much traction that I thought she would collide into the sign. Luckily that didn't turn out to be the case since she redirected the Bicycle to the middle of the road masterfully.
"I can't believe Drayden would teach Iris that technique," my mother said disapprovingly. "It's a dangerous technique to pull off."
I smiled in spite of myself.
"Can you teach me, Ma?" I asked innocently.
"Not until you learn how to throw punches properly," she answered.
I opened my mouth to protest albeit saw Iris slamming the brakes on Ma's Bicycle and slipping off. When her feet reached the asphalt, Iris folded the Bicycle in on itself. We slammed on the brakes afterwards and jumped off the Bicycles just as Iris ambled over to my mother.
"Thank you," she said.
Ma nodded as she folded Red's Bicycle until it couldn't be folded anymore. Then she had a rather brief conversation with Iris before relieving her of the Bicycle. Bianca, Cheren and I all folded our respective Bicycles until they were in their original folded form. On an unrelated note, Ma had already put away Red's and her Bicycles by the time we threw ours into our backpacks. Iris maundered over to where she got off the Bicycle, her head moving leftwards and rightwards like she was searching for something.
"There should be some box stairs around here somewhere. Ah-ha! So there they are!" Iris exclaimed.
Iris was gesturing at the steep asphalt overhang in front of her. I looked at a paling Cheren, who was picking at his collar nervously; Cheren had a slight case of basophobia.
"Did we go uphill?" he asked Iris.
"Yes."
"Is there any chance that we could Fly?" Cheren asked hopefully.
"This is a well-preserved area of Opelucid City," Iris said sternly. "Flying here is strictly forbidden! Who knows what might happen?"
Iris turned to Bianca, her hand still gesturing at the overhang.
"Do you think you could go first?" she asked.
"You may want to reconsider, Daughter of Dragons," an all-too familiar voice answered unexpectedly.
We all turned around as a hooded man appeared, clad in an elaborate black habit and cloak with silvery-blue trimming. Both articles of clothing showcased just how slim he really was. The man lowered his cowl and my heart stopped.
"Hello, Cheren, Bianca, White, Platina and Iris," Ghetsis Harmonia Gropius greeted us.
I gritted my teeth as I placed one hand over my slowly beating heart. Why did I feel so anxious? I could take down Ghetsis with no problem at all; I did it before. So why the anxiety? I had to respond to Ghetsis as though I wasn't afraid.
"At least you don't look fat anymore," I blurted out.
Ghetsis threw his head back and roared with hollow laughter.
"It amuses me just how much you're like your father, White," he said. "Neither of you have any idea how arrogant you sound when you insult me."
I almost cringed when Ghetsis compared me to Red. I didn't want to be compared to the likes of Red; I wasn't anything like him at all. Did Ghetsis say that because he knew I'd get all riled up at hearing it? Why were his words able to affect me now?
Stop it, I told myself. You let Ghetsis inside your head once; don't be an idiot and make the same mistake twice, White!
Out of the corner of my eye, I glimpsed Ma storming over to Ghetsis and punching him in the face. Ghetsis's face snapped sideways, his eyes wide with shock; he definitely didn't expect my mother to slug him. However, he expected her to slug him again because he caught my mother's fist barehanded. Then Ghetsis pulled her towards him before he flung her in our direction.
"MA!" I screamed.
"PLATINA!" Bianca, Cheren and Iris shouted simultaneously.
My mother sailed through the air before collapsing onto the asphalt beside me. I edged over to her just as she pushed herself up with her arms shakily.
"Ma!" I called out.
"I-I'm fine," my mother said weakly.
Ghetsis strutted over to us while adjusting his monocle haughtily. The greenhead carried himself very menacingly; I actually found myself believing Ghetsis was a force to be reckoned with for a split second. Then I snapped out of it and continued edging closer to my mother.
"I'll make him pay," I promised my mother. "I swear I will, Ma."
My mother didn't answer me; she was too busy staring into Ghetsis's eyes.
"Should I be impressed or annoyed that Pearl had taught you how to fight, Platina?" he asked airily. "I suppose neither because it makes no difference to me."
"I couldn't care less whether it made any difference to you," my mother said icily. "I know one thing though."
"That this was an all-time low," I interrupted, "even for you, Ghetsis."
Ghetsis drew one hand from his monocle, wearing a triumphant smile.
"With all due respect, White," he said, "your mother attacked me; I merely acted in self-defense."
I gnashed my teeth while my mother got to her knees and glared at Ghetsis.
"What happened to escorting me?" she demanded. "That's what you want, right? How about you take me now and be done with it?!"
I wheeled around and goggled at my mother.
"Are you insane?" I wanted to know. "Why would you want him to escort you? Why do you want him to take you? You've outsmarted him for sixteen years; don't give up now!"
Unless she's scheming, I thought. What does she have up her sleeve now?
Ma tilted her chin upwards, her long hair falling in bundles behind her neck. Meanwhile I positioned myself in front of my mother, my arms stretched outwards to shield her. Ghetsis shrugged nonchalantly before slogging towards the two of us in his new attire.
"Brother!" a tenor voice said suddenly.
My mouth dropped open; Ghetsis had a brother? One Harmonia Gropius was already bad enough to deal with. Even so, my interest was piqued. I felt the urge to look up and see whether this Harmonia Gropius was truly overweight or just sporting clothes several sizes too big for him. I didn't expect Ghetsis's brother to be a classically handsome ravenette in his thirties. His slate black hair was pulled into a long ponytail bobbing behind him, several strands hanging over eyes the same color and shape as Ghetsis's. When the ravenette came to a halt, he slid one hand inside his cloak and pulled out an eyeglasses case.
Ghetsis's lips were taut now.
"What is it now, Rubeus?" he said coldly.
The man named Rubeus slid his glasses up his nose.
"As your older brother, I implore you not to play with your food before you eat it," he said in a level voice. "You have to act accordingly when it comes to the plan."
My mother climbed to her feet, extending one hand towards me invitingly. I stared at her for a few seconds before slipping my hand through hers, and she pulled me up to my feet. We faced the Harmonia Gropius brothers together, my mother staring at Rubeus intently.
"When you say that, it just wants to make me laugh, Ruby," she said tonelessly.
"Ma," I said worriedly.
Rubeus started before turning around and facing Ma, recognition flitting across his facial features and then shock - panicked even, as though he'd been caught in a searchlight. His face was drained of color entirely.
"Ti-Platina," he said faintly.
Ma curled one hand into a fist, her teeth clenched. Her stormy gray eyes were clouded with a mixture of deep sadness, anger and disillusionment.
"After everything that has happened, how could you side with Emerald, Ruby?" she asked in a voice as brittle as glass. "I take back what I said about your patriotism; you're nothing more than a scoundrel and renegade!"
Rubeus's countenance was as forbidding as the Giant Chasm.
"I still retain my patriotism," he scoffed. "That is, to Hoenn and Hoenn alone. Did you really believe that those in the Order of the Acacia all have patriotic spirits, Platina? You're pretty thick for a veteran strategist, you know that?"
Ma glowered at Rubeus. Meanwhile I glanced at Rubeus and then Ma, lost.
"What is he talking about?" I asked my mother.
Ghetsis gloated while Ma and Rubeus had their unpleasant exchange; he looked as though he was enjoying it very much. I couldn't stand by anymore in disgust; I had to defeat Ghetsis once and for all. I pointed at Ghetsis.
"I challenge you to a Pokémon Battle!" I announced. "Right here, right now!"
I expected Ghetsis to take his leave to snack on junk food. Instead he smirked.
"Very well, then," he agreed. "I agree to your terms, White Electra."
"Snow," I corrected Ghetsis.
N's father snorted.
"Your surname's meaningless anyhow," Ghetsis said derisively. "I must say that I'm looking forward to giving you a long-needed lesson in humility; I choose to Battle you in a Furvum Imperium Battle Royale."
Murmuring rippled behind me unexpectedly; I had almost forgotten Bianca, Cheren and Iris were bearing witness to everything right now.
"A Furvum Imperium Battle Royale?" Iris asked curiously. "I've never heard of such a type of Battle Royale. What kind of Battle Royale is it?"
Bianca and I turned to Cheren out of habit, hoping his wealth of terminology would supply the answer to the burning question. A confused Cheren shook his head, as stumped as the rest of us. Ghetsis cleared his throat authoritatively and all eyes laid themselves on him.
"Many of my subordinates are well-versed in this type of Battle Royale," Ghetsis admitted. "I shall deign to speak to you about the Furvum Imperium Battle Royale rules: the hypothetical total amount of participants allowed in these Battles are infinite, and participants can work with or against each other. We've devised a method that renders all Pokémon to be the same level during a Furvum Imperium Battle Royale to compensate for this.
"In addition," Ghetsis went on, "we've integrated every known type of Pokémon Battle into the Furvum Imperium Battle Royale system. I believe I've wrapped things up. Now who shall I choose to Battle me? Ah, how about Cheren Kurosaki, Bianca Grace and White? You three shall be my opponents."
Iris looked offended.
"Hang on a minute!" she exclaimed. "What about me, Ghetsis? Do you honestly expect me to stand on the sidelines and let my friends take you on all by themselves?"
"Are you implying the three of them would be unable to handle me on their own, Iris Evans?" Ghetsis challenged her. "If you wish to save your puny Opelucid City, then you're more than welcome to challenge Rubeus with Platina; he's just as formidable as I am, maybe even more so."
Rubeus narrowed his eyes.
"Maybe you should've consulted me first, Emerald," he said angrily. "Allow me to Battle the blonde instead of the pipsqueak; perfect symmetry will be maintained that way!"
A bristling Iris produced a Poké Ball.
"I'm not a pipsqueak!" she snapped. "I'm twelve for your information! Hmph!"
Ma face-palmed.
"Even your Pokémon Battles have to be symmetrical," she said incredulously.
Ghetsis threw an annoyed look at his sibling before facing Bianca, Cheren and I.
"Forgive my brother's eccentricity, Unova Resistance," he boomed. "He tends to become unhinged whenever . . . imperfections arise. Though if he doesn't restrain his perfectionism, then I'm afraid the Shadow Triad shall have to stand in for Rubeus. Did you hear that clearly, Brother?"
Rubeus unpeeled his eyes from my mother and swiveled them onto his brother, his finely carved facial features twisted with aversion.
"Crystal clear," he agreed.
Ghetsis threw the Poké Ball onto the asphalt.
"I CHOOSE YOU, SALAMENCE!"
A blinding flash of light issued from the Poké Ball as a teal quadruped, draconic Pokémon with enormous wine red wings appeared. Salamence roared deafeningly while it flicked its rather long, tapering tail; it flapped its wings and blew forth mighty winds. As soon as Ghetsis slipped the Poké Ball back inside his cloak, Bianca produced a Poké Ball from her over-sized purse and threw it at the asphalt.
"I CHOOSE YOU, STOUTLAND!" she yelled.
Cheren and I aimed our Poké Balls at the asphalt.
"GO, GIGALITH!" Cheren shouted.
"YOU'RE UP, BEARTIC!" I called at the top of my voice.
After Cheren and I attached our Poké Balls to our belts, Beartic, Gigalith and Stoutland faced Salamence, raring to go. An uncontrollable fit of laughter erupted from the Team Plasma leader. I couldn't put my finger on it but I felt as though he conned us, which wasn't a very pleasant feeling. That made me even more determined to take down Ghetsis once and for all.
Black's PoV.
Silver was bowing his head, which struck me as peculiar. My godfather was mutinous to a T; he hated submission more than anything in this world. So why was he submitting to Ruri? Did he have a reason or could I have misread him?
Ruri gazed at Wigglytuff while she motioned at Silver.
"After I defeat you, I'll show you to this beautiful habitat called the Wigglytuff Empire!" she exclaimed.
Wigglytuff waddled over to Ruri, her flat-topped hat falling above her right eye and obscuring her vision. Meanwhile Silver's head was still suspended in midair and his hair fell over his face.
"You might want to look up, Silver," I whispered.
I unglued my eyes from the redhead and directed them toward the Siren of Chaos. I didn't realize until now how vibrantly beautiful Ruri was; her posture was demure yet calculative; her feminine charm was way more developed than White's, which made me feel quite uneasy. At any rate, I found it utterly ironic that the huntress Ruri used the power of beauty to draw her prey into a vortex of chaos that they had little chance of escaping from.
"But first I think I'll slap you around a bit!" Ruri announced. "Attack Silver with Double Slap!"
Silver! Gengar yelled.
Wigglytuff lunged at Silver as fast as thought and grabbed him by the collar. My godfather snapped his head up, looking rather panicked. I couldn't play by Ruri's sickening rules anymore; I needed to save Silver! So, I made for the redhead albeit the blonde gave me a pointed stare.
"Don't interfere," Ruri warned me, "or misfortune might just befall Silver."
Silver craned his neck so fast that his long hair swayed through the air; his eyes were flashing.
"Listen to her!" he urged me. "I can take care of myself just fine; I'm more worried about you right now."
I shook my head; I wasn't going to let Silver get injured on my behalf.
"Why can't you worry more about yourself, Silver?" I said, my voice pitching several octaves. "You made Artemis a promise; you made your daughter a promise! Are you going back on that? What about the promise you made with me? You said -"
"I know what I said!" Silver interrupted. "Do you honestly think I plan on losing to this wench, Black? Because you're sadly mistaken if you think so!"
Wigglytuff swallowed a bunch of air that made her elastic body swell greatly before striking Silver across the cheek. The force behind the slap was more than enough to have Silver tilt his head to the side. Silver's hair fell over his face, and an unfazed Wigglytuff swept the redhead's bangs behind his earlobes. My mother's childhood friend glared at Wigglytuff defiantly as she struck him yet again. Then again and again.
"Wiggly! Wiggly! Wigglytuff!" the Pokémon said delightedly.
Silver looked up once Wigglytuff was finished using Double Slap; his cheeks were decorated in scarlet.
"Silver!" I cried. "Silver! Are you alright?"
An upset Gengar floated over to the redhead while I rushed over to him. Silver was clutching his cheek, his hand trembling.
"I've been worse," Silver said jokingly. "Why do you two have such long faces for? It's not as if I dropped dead or anything! Sheesh!"
"Ha ha ha," I said sarcastically. "Well, I suppose you could be much worse but you're trembling, Silver. Did she hurt you or knock some sense into you?"
Silver said nothing while he probed his cheek, wincing in the process. Yeah, Wigglytuff got the willful Bouffalant pretty good back there. In any event, Silver persevered no matter how he felt; his priorities meant that much to him.
"Neither," he lied through clenched teeth.
Silver withdrew his hand, fished out Gengar's Poké Ball and recalled Gengar. At first I thought Silver had lost his mind although Froslass reminded me that Gengar's move set rendered it useless against Wigglytuff. Therefore it wasn't that much of a leap to assume Silver was devising another plan now. Even though he was busy rummaging through his pockets, I knew Silver's mind was busy strategizing.
"About time," Silver said.
Silver held up a Poké Ball high in the air before hurling it toward the asphalt.
"I CHOOSE YOU, MAGNEZONE!"
Magnezone burst out of the Poké Ball, twirling as though it were a ballerina. The Poké Ball flew back into Silver's hand as Magnezone spun its magnets around happily.
"Because I switched out Gengar with Magnezone, I can't attack this turn," Silver said matter-of-factly. "You've backed me into a corner, Siren of Chaos."
Ruri arched one eyebrow.
"I don't believe that for a moment," she said skeptically. "I know you're up to something, Silver. There's really no way your Gengar has an ineffective move set against my Wigglytuff. Surely you'd know how to strike a part Normal Type Pokémon down with a Ghost Type move in an Inverse Battle."
She raises a good point, I agreed mentally. Silver could've sent out Alakazam and made him use Foresight to render Wigglytuff vulnerable. But that would've been too obvious. What is Silver really up to?
I was going to give myself a migraine from thinking about the plethora of possibilities laid out before me. I decided to focus on Froslass although I found myself wishing for a second - just a second - that I had made Froslass forget Double Team and made it learn Hail.
"Let's give Wigglytuff an electrifying show, Froslass!" I said. "Shock her with Thunderbolt!"
Froslass spun around in the most perfect of circles, the air around her glowing bright yellow. She drew electrical energy from it as she overcame the laws of physics by conjuring a pale, cracking thunderbolt from nothingness. Froslass swiped the humming object into her hand, and the hairs on my body stood up at the powerful sight. My Pokémon threw a dirty look at Wigglytuff before hurling the thunderbolt at the Balloon Pokémon; Wigglytuff was wearing a "I'm tougher than I look" facial expression, which made Silver roar with laughter.
"I guess the apple doesn't fall that far from the tree!" the redhead croaked.
"I'm sure that's an insult," Ruri said distastefully. "You'd do well not to underestimate my Wigglytuff, Silver."
"You're kidding, right?" Silver chuckled. "You really think your pathetic Wigglytuff would survive Thunderbolt unscathed. How ridiculous is that?"
"Oh, you're just hoping that will turn out to be the case!" Ruri retorted. "Look, I get it; you're mad about the Double Slap. But how far will you go for your revenge - ?"
"I don't think Silver's plotting revenge because he's still mad," I cut across Ruri. "Although I really can't say the same for your eventual anger, Siren of Chaos."
I pointed at Wigglytuff, who was encircled by arcs of electricity. She tried to move toward Ruri, but it was as though she was rooted to the spot; Wigglytuff had lost the power of movement judging from the horrified expression on her face. Froslass struck a pose worthy of being caught on the camera and I laughed.
Mission accomplished, Froslass thought happily.
"Did you expect your Wigglytuff to experience paralysis?" I taunted Ruri. "I know I didn't to be honest!"
I will defrost you once I'm free of my paralysis, you ice queen! Wigglytuff promised. You'll be wishing you're frozen by the time I'm through with you, Froslass!
Here's a thought, Wigglytuff, I thought playfully. LET IT GO! LET IT GO!
Wigglytuff looked as though she was burning at the stake.
I'd rather be stuck in my Poké Ball than hear another round of Frozen songs! Wigglytuff whined.
"How many times have you seen Frozen?" I asked Ruri.
Silver pinched his nose.
"You've got to be kidding me."
N's PoV.
The air around us must've been rather laden with hydrogen molecules because sleet appeared. Once again I marveled at the marvelous masterpieces Walrein created from Mother Nature - even if it happened to be dangerous. I knew for a fact that Red disagreed wholeheartedly; his constant shivering made his efforts to zip up his vest seem Herculean. How could Red not be accustomed to the cold? Legends stated that he had spent virtually three years on top of Mt. Silver.
"I hate the cold so much," Red said through chattering teeth. "I really, really hate it."
It was around then that a faint memory tugged at the corner of my mind, and I remembered doing some light reading about regional meteorology and climatology a while back. Maybe it wasn't Red's fault that he disliked the cold; Kanto was an innovative, progressive region with a temperature climate after all. At any rate, I found myself shivering while pellets of snow and needles of rain pounded down on all of us.
Don't be shivering, Walrein scolded me. You know Sheer Cold incurs a brief climate change, N.
I know.
I pulled my hat over my eyes, preventing my vision from becoming blurred by the whirlwind of sleet and rain. I heard Red shout my name and I lifted the hat from my eyes slightly to regard him. The ravenette was blowing condensed breath from his quivering mouth.
"I used to think Lorelei was crazy for loving ice so much until I had found out she was born and raised in the Sevii Islands," Red admitted. "Come here, Pika and Poli. We need to draw warmth from each other."
Red squatted before Pikachu and Poliwrath, hugging them tightly. Meanwhile tendrils of mist intertwined with each other aerially, assuming the shape of a foggy blanket. Thick frost spread all over the asphalt and aqueduct, jagged glassy spikes protruding from the snowy surface at a rapid pace. The wind picked up and howled in our ears as flurries of snowflakes danced in our midst teasingly. I scanned the horizon for Red, who had simply vanished with his Pikachu and Poliwrath (I was absolutely certain they were somewhere close by). Gallade's shouting, however, jerked me to reality and I saw the Pokémon flat on the ground. Walrein appeared out of nowhere just then, sucking the snowy landscape into his mouth triumphantly.
"NO! NO! NO!" Blake cried. "GALLADE! GALLADE!"
The Obsidian Terror waded through the mist, a snowy cap resting on his head. He shoved one hand into his cloak and pulled out a Poké Ball, his demonic countenance all but gone. His crazed gaze was replaced by a fearful one. Did Blake really care about Gallade or was that a lie? Was sleet gleaming on his face or was it sweat? Blake directed the Poké Ball at Gallade, his mouth slightly open.
"You can't rewrite the Furvum Imperium Battle Royale rules, Blake," Red's voice boomed. "I find it fitting that karma has given you a taste of your own medicine. It's so cold that it burns, right?"
Blake gritted his teeth, the color in his face draining.
"No matter what, no one must challenge the will of fate," he said in a voice as sharp as a shard of broken glass. "Fate, destiny and karma treat our universe like a stage - all the world's a stage and most of us are desperately unrehearsed."
Walrein unleashed a blast of subzero ice that engulfed Gallade, much to the Obsidian Terror's displeasure. The Obsidian Terror recalled his fainted Pokémon into the Poké Ball, his eyes void of emotion. Then he dropped his gaze to the ground and shook uncontrollably. Unintelligible noises rippled from the brunette which were somewhere between sobbing and laughter. Even though the sight of him tugged at my heartstrings, Blake's intimidating yet princely aura emanated from him and reminded me that he was our enemy.
"You shouldn't cry," I said. "Crying doesn't solve anything."
Red trooped into my line of vision just then, his mouth taut.
"Yeah; I don't really think he's crying, N," he said. "Don't celebrate your victory and get complacent. Blake still has three more Pokémon - that includes Samurott as well - he will use in the Double Battle Royale."
Three more Pokémon? I thought. But I have six Pokémon in total, right?
I looked down at my belt and counted six Poké Balls; six minus four equaled two. Did this mean I could only use two more Pokémon in the Double Battle Royale? I needed to ask Red for clarification.
"Why didn't you tell me this earlier, Red?" I asked him coolly.
Red blinked before he laughed.
"Gee, I don't know," he replied. "I guessed it slipped my mind. Sorry!"
"That's supposed to be an answer?!" I shouted.
The Kantonian Pokémon Champion flinched mockingly.
"Could you lower the decibels a bit, N?" Red said. "Your voice is going to turn all of Opelucid City deaf at this rate."
The Obsidian Terror snapped his head up, putting away Gallade's Poké Ball inside his cloak. He threw us a pointed stare that sent chills down my own spine and caused apprehensiveness to sweep through me. I could almost see why Red was anxious around him.
Almost.
Platina's PoV.
Even as Rubeus drew closer to me, I saw my only daughter challenge Emerald Birch (Ghetsis Harmonia Gropius) rather foolishly to a Pokémon Battle. It was fortunate that Cheren and Bianca jumped into the fray to back up their best friend. Otherwise I would've faced off against Emerald myself. Emerald Birch. Ghetsis Harmonia Gropius. It didn't matter what name he went by; Emerald was Emerald through and through. I was the same as him in that way. Therefore I didn't have the right to condemn him for his transgressions because that would make me a hypocrite. Even if I had supplied him with the idea, it was Emerald and Emerald alone who chose to go on this path.
I regarded Rubeus, who was pushing his glasses further up his nose.
"I'm sorry," I said guiltily. "I realized long ago how deluded I was to trust Emerald and you - especially you. You used me because you knew who -"
"You still deny your father even after all these years, Platina," Rubeus interrupted. "Is the truth really so hard for you to swallow?"
I didn't answer. I remembered how simple the world seemed when I was only Platina Arellano Berlitz, daughter of the famed Pokémon Coordinator Johanna Arellano Berlitz, and the best friend of Pearl Valera. It was simple when Pearl and I had entered that contest in Sandgem Town and had won the privilege of traveling with Diamond de Arco Rowan. My world had lost its simplicity once I had caught Giratna - the Pokémon who had been the catalyst to everything. The Renegade Pokémon had sent me into a half-crazed state that took quite a while to snap out of.
I understand what White's feeling about Red, I thought. I've brought her up as best as I could, and in some ways she has already had a better childhood than I have. Unfortunately all happiness comes at a price, which Red has paid. Is it fair? No, it isn't. So, we shouldn't be bitter; I can't be bitter.
"I've come to accept that I'm Cyrus Snow's only daughter," I said calmly. "I've never faulted him for his actions even though I disagreed with them."
That part was true; I had had a hard time accepting Cyrus's nihilistic measures - measures that would help him to achieve godhood and a world without spirit. I didn't know what was worse: not understanding someone's motives and disagreeing with them ignorantly or understanding them and disagreeing with them still.
Iris was staring straight ahead, her hand probing her dress. Judging by the look on her face, Iris seemed uneasy listening to the conversation that was unfolding between Rubeus and myself. Rubeus realized this as well and snorted in response.
"You out of all people should," Rubeus said, "although I do find it odd you'd compare your old man to my brother; their goals are entirely different."
"Enough," I warned Rubeus. "There's no point in arguing about this, Ruby; we've reached an impasse."
I popped a Poké Ball into my hand and flung it at the asphalt.
"I CHOOSE YOU, LUXRAY!"
Luxray materialized from the Poké Ball, pouncing onto the asphalt; she glowered at Rubeus while her tail flicked back and forth, her unruly fur glowing with electricity. Her Poké Ball returned to my outstretched hand and I put it away, catching a glimpse of a thoroughly revolted Rubeus.
"How dare you throw out an asymmetrical Pokémon?" Rubeus asked me disgustedly.
Luxray gnashed her teeth, and I knew I didn't need Aurae, Rhapsody or Eventide to read her heart; she wanted to tear apart Rubeus limb by limb because he was a traitor and a sycophant.
"I don't know what you two are talking about," Iris shrugged, "but no one, and I repeat no one, threatens Opelucid City and gets away with it! As one of Opelucid City's Gym Leaders, I'll make sure you don't destroy my beloved city! GO, DRUDDIGON!"
Iris sent out her Druddigon, who was asymmetrical by Rubeus's standards. Rubeus made a face before regaining his composure and producing a Poké Ball.
"I challenge you and Iris Evans to a Pokémon Battle!" he declared.
"What about the Furvum Imperium Battle Royale?" Iris asked.
"What's wrong with a good, old-fashioned Pokémon Battle?" Rubeus answered nonchalantly. "Aren't those more of your expertise?"
"Don't patronize me!" Iris said hotly. "You shouldn't underestimate me either!"
It dawned on me right then and there that the Daughter of Dragons was a very proud girl; she thought Rubeus opted for a normal Pokémon Battle because he believed she wouldn't be able to handle a Furvum Imperium Battle Royale, which wounded her pride. If I didn't know any better, I would suppose that Rubeus wanted the battlefield to remain meticulous and even. A Pokémon Battle's damage to its surroundings could easily be repaired, whereas a Furvum Imperium Battle Royale was a different story altogether.
"I'm not underestimating you," Rubeus assured Iris. "Think about it, gal. Two Battle Royales in this particular remote location will draw unwanted attention. And so, even if time tried, the cuteness of this Pokémon would never fade! Show them just how deadly cuteness can be! Give it up for Number 301 - Fae!"
Rubeus threw the Poké Ball at the asphalt, and a feline Pokémon coalesced from the bright light. The Pokémon sported a perfect tan which could only have been obtained by much suntanning; she wore a collar adorned with rhinestones which hung over her glossy lavender coat. Fae the Delcatty had an unmistakable air of being well-cared for - perhaps even worshiped. She smiled mocking at Luxray, who dug her claws into the asphalt.
"Calm down, Luxray," I urged her.
Iris sweat-dropped.
"Is this some sort of joke?" she wanted to know. "Do you always do these theatrics when sending out a Pokémon, or just this one?"
Rubeus caught the Poké Ball and stashed it inside his cloak while looking at Iris.
"Since you know best, how about ladies first?" Rubeus sneered.
Iris beamed as she pointed at the cat Pokémon.
"Finish off his Pokémon with Outrage!" she said to Druddigon.
Druddigon let loose a snorting while eyeing a scared Fae. I had the strangest feeling that Rubeus had allowed Iris to go first on purpose, which led my mind to sift through my personal database and assemble the most likely outcome, grim though it may be. I took no pleasure in being right although if I ended up being right, then Iris would be in hot water shortly. In spite of myself, I glanced over my shoulder and saw Emerald holding his own against the children. Then I set my eyes on Iris and Druddigon.
"Stop the attack, Iris!" I called out.
Iris half-turned around.
"Outrage deals a lot of damage, Platina!" Iris told me. "Besides, I - ACHOO!"
"Bless you," I said instantly.
Druddigon narrowed his eyes as he gripped Fae, catapulted himself off the asphalt and flung the feline Pokémon towards the asphalt. Fae collided into the asphalt with such force, creating a depression in the street inadvertently.
"I understand that you wanted to end this as swiftly as possible," I began, "but Rubeus sent out his Delcatty for a reason, Iris."
I had almost forgotten that Rubeus Birch wasn't just a Pokémon Coordinator and Pokémon Master; he was an aspiring Pokémon Professor. Coupled with his masterful improvisation and gift for tactics, Rubeus's encyclopedic knowledge of Pokémon made him enterprising and dangerous - a force to be reckoned with. Knowing that about Rubeus helped me see through his ruse; Rubeus knelt beside Fae, gleaming tears falling from his ruby red eyes.
"How could you be so brutal to her, gal?" Rubeus said emotionally. "How could your Druddigon be so brutal to my beloved feline companion? Just how savage and heartless could you be?"
Iris looked ashamed of herself.
"I didn't mean to be so brutal," she defended herself. "It's just that -"
A rhinestone peeled itself off Fae's collar and clattered to the ground just then. Rubeus brought his head up, his eyes smoldering with disgust.
"Don't you dare go on about asymmetry, Ruby!" I chided him. "Quit the crocodile tears and fight fairly; I suppose you're using the tactic I think you're using, right?!"
"What are you doing, Druddigon?" Iris said shrilly. "Come back here!"
Druddigon pushed past me, which made Rubeus smile toothily. The disgust in his eyes had been replaced by glee - glee which made me feel quite unsettled. Fae leaped to her feet just then, slightly weakened but in good condition.
"My ploy worked seamlessly," Rubeus gloated.
Then it happened; Druddigon approached Fae again and scooped her into his bulky arms. The Cave Dragon Pokémon lifted Rubeus's Delcatty in the air, his eyes glazed over as if he was in a kind of trance; Druddigon had been afflicted with infatuation.
Iris's face slackened considerably.
"Cute Charm," she realized. "I really, really, really hate felines!"
"Luxray qualifies as a feline, too," Rubeus reminded me. "It looks as if both my Delcatty and your Luxray are causing Iris some discomfort. I'm pretty sure you don't want Iris collapsing because of her allergies, right? I know you quite well, Platina; you wouldn't want that on your conscience."
Even though results mattered greatly to me, I couldn't win a Pokémon Battle at the cost of disregarding my partner's feelings. I reached for Luxray's Poké Ball and summoned her into the capsule, my eyes fixated on Rubeus.
"You've changed, Rubeus," I observed.
A reptilian smile crossed Rubeus's face as he touched his glasses. I couldn't help noticing his horn-rimmed glasses were lined in crimson, bringing out his eyes. It seemed as if Rubeus was still as vain and flamboyant as ever.
"So have you, love," he said objectively, "but let's focus on our Pokémon Battle, shall we?"
Silver's PoV.
If Arceus had thought that I would enjoy being a philanderer's best friend, then It would automatically win the Worst Cosmic Joke of the Year. I hated men who thought they were Arceus's gift to women. Then I briefly hated myself for being best friends with a former womanizer.
Don't hate yourself for a genuine friendship, Silver! I imagined Kris saying authoritatively. No matter what happens, never lose sight of the bonds you have!
Bonds? What bonds? If the Order of the Acacia had such unbreakable bonds, then why did Sinnoh go silent? Platina had tried to contact the Sinnohan chapter from the Sinjoh Ruins but her summons was ignored. Blue had refused to give up on Sinnoh and had sent Yellow and Green as envoys, though they were denied entry into Platina's homeland.
Why should I care about Hoenn? I had strongly suggested not to allow Emerald into our ranks. However Red had dismissed my caution as paranoia and inducted Emerald anyway - a blunder that Red now wished he had never made. To this day, the Order of the Acacia are unsure as to whether Rubeus, Sapphire and Walter were in cahoots with Emerald the whole time. We all knew Sapphire had taken residence in Sinnoh after Platina had been dispossessed as the Sinnohan Pokémon Champion. Even so, I had my doubts about Sapphire's loyalty.
Why did Kalos erupt into chaos? With the exception of Yvonne, everyone in the Variable Quintet went back to their homeland to stop the Kalosian civil war years ago. It wasn't long after that that Kalos had become whole again and declared themselves neutral; they wouldn't aid Kanto, the Sevii Islands, Johto, Hoenn or Alola until they had proven themselves worthy of an alliance - an alliance that wouldn't jeopardize Kalos's unstable peace. Yvonne couldn't return to Kalos despite it being peaceful; she had been exiled almost a score ago. So sending Yvonne as an envoy was out of the question.
The only regions that had stayed in contact with Johto were Kanto and Alola.
I resurfaced from my brooding and glanced at Ruri and Black, the latter bickering with that troublesome teenager. The only reason why I had decided to chase after the girl was because she had connections to Furvum Imperium. I hadn't been this close to Kris and Gray for a long time - there was a high possibility Ruri might know something about Green. Even the ongoing pain of Wigglytuff's Double Slap didn't hold a candle to the angst I'd felt for over a decade.
Ruri had switched out Wigglytuff with a Glaceon. Black pulled out a Pokédex while looking at Glaceon.
"'It lowers its body heat to freeze its fur,'" Black read from his Pokédex, "'the hairs then become like needles it can fire.'"
Ice versus Ice? I wouldn't sweat that normally but this is a Furvum Imperium Inverse Battle Royale! I thought. Black is at a huge disadvantage; I better do something quick!
Magnezone gazed at me intently as it twirled around; it wasn't as confident now, which was uncharacteristic. Did I overlook some small detail it noticed? I was certain I had noticed everything.
Am I missing something here? I thought, befuddled. Did I forget something? Magnezone wouldn't behave like this without a good reason!
"Go on already, Silver!" Ruri snapped. "I'm getting bored of waiting. If you don't hurry it up, then I won't tell you where our captives are!"
Black turned around, and I saw that he was disquieted. Meanwhile I took Ruri's bait.
"So you did know after all," I growled. "You better be telling the damn truth, kid; otherwise you'll wish you never met me! Magnezone, hit Glaceon with Flash Cannon!"
"NO! CALL OFF MAGNEZONE'S ATTACK, SILVER!" Black screamed. "YOU'RE PLAYING RIGHT INTO HER HANDS!"
I ignored my godson. Didn't he realize that he would be reunited with Green if we defeated Ruri? Soul would have her sister back. Kris and Gray would be free from their imprisonment. The angst and emotional agony we had all endured would be alleviated.
I'm not about to let this trail go cold! I told myself forcefully.
Magnezone pirouetted around twice before absorbing light energy. Several seconds went by but it felt like centuries. I noticed Black was wearing a deep frown that creased his face and his hands were balled into fists. Ruri, however, was on cloud nine, which made me gnash my teeth. Magnezone directed Flash Cannon at an expectant Glaceon and unleashed it. Well, Flash Cannon was definitely going to leave a mark and maybe lower Glaceon's Special Defense. The forward thinker Ruri was foolish to send out an Ice Pokémon before my turn.
Glaceon buckled its knees together as the pillar of silvery light slammed against the Ice Eevee. It wore an expression of unwavering determination while it withstood the attack. Then it realized there wasn't much point and rolled out of the way surprisingly. Unfortunately Flash Cannon didn't deliver double the Battle Damage to Glaceon although the Pokémon didn't emerge entirely unscathed - a shallow cut decorated Glaceon's cheek.
"HOW?" I thundered. "IS THIS SOME SORT OF TRICK?"
A smug Ruri threw her head back and cackled; her shrill cackling was loud enough to shatter my eardrums. I glared at the Furvum Imperium Rattata while Green's son was looking anywhere but at Ruri.
"It wasn't a trick," Black murmured, adopting his compelling, ironic voice. "If you hadn't taken Ruri's bait, then -"
Ruri batted her eyelashes.
"Silver wouldn't want you to sugar-coat, Black," Ruri said sweetly. "Come on! You're supposed to be intelligent, Silver! You know, connecting the dots to see the bigger picture and all that? I honestly had no idea that you're really inclined to act in the moment. Meanwhile -"
I drowned out Ruri's voice as I reanalyzed the situation that already passed. The Siren of Chaos was right; I had a tendency to act in the here and now once I had all the facts. Both history and experience were the ultimate teachers, and we would all be fools if we didn't listen to their wisdom. I knew that if Gold was in my shoes, he'd tell off the irksome Ruri; he was the same as me that way. Soul would ponder obsessively over her mistake until she pinpointed it. Kris would continue though her moves would be more thought-out.
This is a Furvum Imperium Battle Royale, I reminded myself. I don't get another shot at my opponent most of the time; it's an all or nothing match. If I don't watch out, Poochyena Girl might checkmate one or both of us. Focus, Silver! The Pokémon on the field are Magnezone, Glaceon and Froslass. Since this is an Inverse Battle, Ice Pokémon would dominate each other. It would be suicide if I sent Weavile out there. Magnezone is part Steel, and Steel Type Pokémon's greatest type advantages would be their greatest type disadvantages. Rock, Ice and Fairy Type Pokémon are strong against Steel Type Pokémon. If Froslass hadn't paralyzed Wigglytuff when she did, then Magnezone would be - Ruri's more focused on me than Black.
"I won't stand for this," Black snapped. "Even if Magnezone didn't hesitate, I still knew you'd cornered both of us, Ruri! Both Magnezone and Froslass are at Glaceon's mercy now!"
I cursed. How could I forget that Steel wasn't strong against Ice in an Inverse Battle? Ruri had made a bold move; since Froslass only knew Double Team, Shadow Ball, Thunderbolt and Frost Breath, Ruri didn't have to worry about Froslass using moves such as Blizzard. There was no telling if Black would lose Froslass next turn. The type advantages that Black had were now turned against him.
"What are you going to do about it, pretty boy?" Ruri taunted me. "Attack, surrender or withdraw your Pokémon?"
Black uncurled his fists and drew himself up proudly.
"I think I should attack. Froslass, use Frost Breath!"
Ruri's face twisted with delight.
"FREEZE THE ICE QUEEN, GLACEON! UNLEASH THE STRONGEST BLIZZARD EVER to HIT OPELUCID CITY!" she shrieked.
Froslass unleashed her Frost Breath and knocked Glaceon against the trash container. Glaceon was dazed for a while before snapping to her senses. The Pokémon trudged over to Black's airborne Pokémon and started to glow white. I gnashed my teeth, realizing the seriousness of the situation.
DAMMIT! I thought. At this rate, Magnezone and Froslass will -
Winds as sharp as knives blew in Black's and my direction, and I winced. The dull pain from Wigglytuff's Double Slap somehow magnified - the level of agony was much more pronounced. Did I know true pain before? Glaceon's emotions were behind the storm of razor-sharp diamonds, infused with hatred and mayhem. Were these Ruri's emotions too? Did she want the world to freeze over and rot? The winds roared and became uncontrollable, directing the jagged icicles at anyone or anything. A couple of shards grazed my cheek and I bit back a scream - there was no way I would cave in to intense, all-consuming discomfort. I started to lose sight of my surroundings; I didn't know where I was. All I knew was that a thousand needles were injected deep into my flesh and being jerked out violently. Those needles were impregnated with frozen acid that came into contact with dry ice. The coldness was so intolerable that spontaneous combustion was surely possible.
"STOP IT!" Black thundered. "MAKE IT STOP, RURI!"
Black sounded as if he was writhing in agony. I couldn't afford to fall victim to my own pain if Black was suffering as well. With all my willpower, I forced myself to focus on my blurred surroundings. The agony suddenly became easier to cope with. What was blurred became sharper.
Black - Magnezone - Froslass - wretched Siren of Chaos, I thought, my mind jumbled with incoherent thoughts.
As I came to, I saw the limp form of Froslass beside Black, whose teeth were chattering. Black recalled Froslass to her Poké Ball, placed it inside his windbreaker and made for another Poké Ball albeit winced.
"I can still fight," he said weakly.
An almost-unconscious Magnezone was on the asphalt, frost clinging onto its metallic, smooth body. I realized what our Pokémon must've done, and felt a surge of affection go through me.
"Magnezone," I said weakly.
There was a shuffle of footsteps and Ruri came into our midst, looming over us.
"Furvum Imperium Battle Royale rules state that if a participant is injured, then that person loses," Ruri announced. "In your case, you two were allies. Black's loss is your loss, Silver!"
Dread settled inside me. Ruri had emerged victorious, and was going to take Black now. There was no way I'd let that happen.
A/N: "Battle Royale Part II" is finished. As I said, I apologize for the delayed chapter. It was supposed to be uploaded on January 7th, Chapter 5 was supposed to be uploaded on January 27th and Chapter 6 was meant to be uploaded on 16 February. However, it didn't end up to be that way in the slightest. Drop a review on the way out and don't forget to cast your votes on my profile.
White (hands boxes of chocolates to everyone): I know Valentine's Day is supposed to be a holiday about love -
Bianca: Yay for romantic love!
Silver: It's a commercial holiday. But thanks.
White: Maybe so. But I think Valentine's Day should celebrate all kinds of love.
Platina (rips open wrapper to box of chocolates): I love chocolate!
Red: Do you want to share chocolate, Platina?
Platina: I don't know, Red. That's a gift from White to you!
Gold: Don't be so noble! So what if you gain weight from eating chocolate, Platina? You'll be able to work it off!
Platina (hits Gold with a fan): You shouldn't be so tactless, Gold!
Silver: Gold, that's uncool.
Black: That's where you get your tactlessness from.
Red: Just let Platina hit Gold with a paper fan!
White: You're not going to do anything, Dad?
Red: No. I don't want to get hit with the fan!
N: What about you, Silver?
Silver: No comment.
Cheren: Bianca, chocolate?
Bianca: Yay for chocolate!
White: Mom and Gold are like this. Aside from that, Happy Valentine's Day! Wait for the next chapter! See ya!
Note: I'd like to thank Grey Muji, Ai Star, Mistysong451, greenangel77, Pennate Marauder, thelittleglaceon, Madam Rodoshe, KsandraMallan, Archnila, 0silverphoenix, The Tainted Heart of Vegeta, PrincessBlaziken, Eeveemaster7, stiriah, SLEclipse, PositiveCharm416, Erika Elencia, neon-green-violin-27, shippofan2k, ImaginationisAwesome123, Alumina, MammonDaughter, TheLightEthereal and Haru-Artemis for PMing me back.