Blessed Defiance

by Rocketlord6485

Giovanni focuses on making a deeper commitment to Delia, who joins him on a perilous quest to conquer the Johto League and uncover Torino and Briskomy's true motives. Meanwhile, as political tensions within the government and Pokémon League reach their peak, Metsuma Rocket brings the full force of his conspiracy to bear. Vol. II of the Giovanni Chronicles.

36. Chapter 36: Cruising with Fiends

(DISCLAIMER: Ed, the security captain in this chapter, is a character from Fanficfan1037's 'Fighter'. It's a really great story that I highly recommend, due to it's original and creative plot. Thank you, my friend, for allowing me to borrow Natalie's father for this chapter and the next :D. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy this installment!)

Blessed Defiance - Chapter 36: Cruising with Fiends

Inside Olivine's Pokemon Center, Gio was in full panic mode as the impending arrival of his stepfather drew closer. It was morning already, following the previous day's lighthouse exploit, and Gio hadn't slept a wink yet! The confounding revelation made known to him by UniteNations9's News Broadcast had already begun to baffle his bristled emotions. Obviously, Metsuma was coming to engineer a first encounter, step-dad to step-son. But what would that mean? And more importantly, what would it lead to? Gio wanted absolutely nothing to do with this man! Not only had he replaced his father . . . but now, he had risen to govern Briskomy again, this time with an iron fist! The world had come to see this man as phenomenal saint . . . but Gio knew better. As far as he was concerned, Metsuma held a firm involvement with the conspiracy and even nowadays, had undertaken Rita's secret labors of plotting with the Torino Leader. There was no doubt about it.

While Spencer was at the lobby's front counter speaking to Nurse Joy about something, Delia, Faith, and Meowth sat at a table on the far left of the room, watching Gio nervously pace around the floor, his mind heisted away by miserable apprehension. Delia glanced at the two Pokemon with a worried frown. "Do you think I should go calm him down?"

Meowth and Faith leaped atop the table with compulsive approval of Delia's suggestion. Neither of them could stand to see Gio so nerve-wrecked, especially Meowth.

Delia understood too. Strangely enough, it was as though she shared Gio's inner feelings. When he felt distressed, she'd feel the same, sometimes to an even greater extent! But when it came down to this, it was harder to conceive what else Gio was thinking. Briskomy and Torino were two existences she heatedly despised! And Metsuma didn't seem like any worthy exception, even if he was Gio's step-father. The lucky convenience was that Gio had little fondness of him as well. So why stick around? "Gio doesn't deserve to be forced into this situation.", She thought with a passion. "None of us Do!" When she noticed Gio come to a halt, Delia stood up from the table and approached him from behind. Gently, she tapped his shoulder to gather his full attention. He turned around slowly and she began. "Gio . . . we don't even have to worry about facing Metsuma. I can tell how upset you are by this . . . which is why I think we need to leave Olivine City as soon as possible."

The look upon his face turned cold, stern-ridden actually. "We're not going anywhere.", He decided without warning. "He's not deserving of my respect, I know. But I would like to give him a piece of my mind and teach him that no one tramples over my dad's title!"

"The last thing we need right now is added stress!", She argued valiantly though to little success so far. But a new thought had occurred to her, one that would support her argument. Gio was overwhelmingly vulnerable to temper adversities that would basically overtake his mind and well-being without putting up a struggle. His anger towards Metsuma was dreadfully close to triggering that aggressive side to him. If there was anyone capable of controlling that danger, it was Delia. "Think about it Gio . . . err . . . do you really want to confront the man who thinks himself your father?"

Unshaken, Gio nodded. "That's just it! Delia, it's BECAUSE he replaced my father that I want to face him. I have to face him!" He then flaunted a fiendish smirk to her and said: "And who knows? Maybe I can even get him to pass down a similar message to my mother. She's heard it once, it wouldn't kill her to hear it again."

Delia's plan was failing. She needed a backup plan and quickly! "But . . . err . . . what about your next Gym Battle in Cianwood City? You even said yourself that if you want to compete in the tournament this year, we're going to need to stay on schedule!"

Because her bone of contention seemed valid, Gio pondered for a moment without saying a word. Her reasoning did make sense, regardless of the unknown motives behind it. In retrospect, their group had already frittered away a large portion of their time, what with the tragic miscarriage of their unborn child, Memphis kidnapping Delia, and then the excruciating captivity at Torino's Training School. Delia was technically right. An unwanted family affair didn't seem helpful at the moment.

"Well?", She inquired again, this time more assertively. "What's your input?"

He was finally ready to go along with her idea . . . but unfortunately, another problem still stood in the way. "How are we even supposed to get to Cianwood City? Skarmory doesn't like flying over water and there's too many of us to ride Spencer's Pidgeotto. And it's not like we can afford to have a ferry take us there."

"Don't be so sure!", Encouraged Spencer's approximating voice. He was walking over from the counter with an envelope in his hand. On his face, a proud smile captivated their awareness of his presence. Upon joining their discussion, he playfully dangled the envelope in front of Gio's face. "Guess what I have?"

Gio sighed with weary interest. "Well it can't be an invitation for you to permanently leave our group because I haven't even gotten around to writing it yet."

Unamused, Spencer ignored his comment and explained. "My dad was generous enough to mail me a small sum of his . . . financial welfare." He opened the socket of the envelope to reveal a substantial amount of cash. "I sent a letter to my dad in Ecruteak City and told him that we'd been having some problems. I guess he assumed that money would make for the best solution."

Gio choked at the very sight! "Spence, there must be hundreds of dollars in there! Your dad . . . really sent all that for us?"

"Where was that attitude two minutes ago?", Spencer snottily mocked his friend. "Last I checked, you wanted me out of the group . . ."

There was only one way to save himself now. Abruptly, Gio broke into laughter. "Oh that? Come on now, Spence! You know I was just kidding . . . hehe . . ." After a lengthy silence, he attempted to swipe the profit right from Spencer's grasp.

But Spencer turned away swiftly and chuckled. "Not on your life, sir! This money's already in safe hands and I intend to keep it that way." He knew he could find more cultivated confidence in Delia. To her, he cordially concurred to her recommendation. "The money should be more than enough to pay for three ferry tickets to Cianwood City, along with all the expenses on board."

That was a relief, to Delia anyway. "You see, Gio? It all worked out for itself! You can put Metsuma behind you now, okay?"

The very name made Gio shiver in agony! He was speedy to accept the conditions without giving anymore trouble. "Alright, fine. We should all get going then."

"Great!", Exclaimed Spencer. "Lets gather the Pokemon and then head over to the pier to find ourselves a decent ship."

Even though the agenda was clear, Gio couldn't help but feel like he was running away from his problems, specifically his fake father. "I know I have to face him at some point . . . but honestly, now probably isn't the right time for that. Delia . . . thank you for talking me out of that stupid mistake of a choice."

…...

A few miles off the coast of Olivine's shoreline, the S.S. Briskomy skirred the tastefully moderate tides at a smooth and invariable pace. The corporate cruise liner was only a little under an hour away from welcoming Olivine's trainers and travelers, an expenditure to further promote Briskomy's popularity among the general public demesne. The ship's navigator, Captain O'Neil, stood at the landing deck near the ship's stern gallery. O'Niel was weighing into his early fifties. Although his all-together impression surpassed Abet's sophistication, he retained the traditional representation of most sea captains: A Scruffy gray beard, a portly figure, a fancy white mariner's uniform, and of course, an eye patch. From above his head, a gusty wind swiveled down over the captain, for a Briskomy Executive Helicopter was preparing to disembark aboard the cruise liner. O'Neil and his staff took a few steps back to make way for the vehicle's landing.

Upon making contact with the surface of the flight deck, the engines of the chopper ceased . . . and the cabin doors opened up, revealing the face of Metsuma Rocket, his Briskomy bodyguards, and a few of his fellow executives, all exiting the aerial transport in a single-file line. Metsuma glanced around the deck with appreciative nodding, a compliment to O'Neil. It wasn't until he met the eyes of the captain himself, did he address his admiration. "Captain, even after all these years, you've managed to keep my ship as clean as a whistle!"

"Only the best for you, Supreme Councilman!", O'Neil respectfully recognized his superior for his most notable position. Before Rita's administration, O'Neil had served as Metsuma's overseas captain with great honor. Back then, Metsuma was the head of Briskomy. But now . . . Metsuma was not only leader of Briskomy again . . . but one of the most powerful figures in the National Government! "Just let me know if there's anything my crew and I can do to make your stay more welcome."

Metsuma graciously grinned. "That's very kind of you, my friend. But let's first worry about boarding Olivine's passengers first, shall we? If we wish to expand Briskomy's iconic image, we must continue to patronize our supporters with the utmost care and friendliness."

"Of course, sir. Right away!" O'Niel then rallied his staff and gave them directions. "You heard the man! The final preparations for our guests must be made! Open up all the lounges, kitchens, pools, fitness gyms, spas, and trainer arenas! We want to ensure that each and every passenger is satisfied with their stay!"

Metsuma was highly pleased with the cooperation being treated to him. But little did Captain O'Niel realize that this publicity move was merely a cover up for Metsuma's true purpose for being in Olivine City . . .

…...

Gio, Delia, Spencer, and Meowth raced down the pier like a unruly stampede of Tauros! From afar, the could spot the last ferry waiting at the end of the docks, boarding passengers one bye one as it's loud foghorn clamored out for any excluded participants.

Unexpectedly however, Spencer suddenly stopped frozen in the trails of his friends ahead, gazing out to the sea with widening uncertainty. He looked down upon the envelope in his hands and blandly emptied his lungs with an extraneous heave.

Since Faith had been dawdling inside Delia's bag again, only she was able to discern Spencer's impediment while scanning the behind. Immediately, she alerted her human parents. "Pi! Pi! Pichu!"

"Huh?" Delia spun around, Gio following her actions not long after. "Spencer? What's wrong?"

Spencer remained motionless, compelling his friends to backtrack and check up on his condition. His silence released once the two had begun to eerily stare at him blankly. "I'm . . . reconsidering how we should spend this money."

Gio only continued to deride him with a cold, humorless stare. "Are you kidding me? Spence, what the hell are you thinking? You know we have a need to get to Cianwood City! And our only hope of doing is by boarding that Ferry right now!"

"You don't understand!", Spencer backfired as he tucked away the money deep into his pocket. "Never in my life have I possessed this much money at one time!"

The ferry would be departing real soon and Delia, unable to tolerate Spencer's selfish logic, knew not to waste another minute if there was any hope left of fleeing Olivine before Metsuma's arrival! Angrily, she grabbed Spencer's shirt collar and began to shake him wildly. "What are you even talking about! You're rich! You're the child of a billionaire!"

Spencer narrowly escaped Delia's overbearing harassment for the sole purpose of making sense out of his induction. "My dad is and always was the wealthy one, not me! Ever since I left home to pursue my dream of becoming a Legendary Pokemon researcher, I was never given a dime . . . until now. This is a rare opportunity and I don't want to waste it!"

"Are you completely senile?", Exclaimed Delia to the top of her lungs, frightening both the boys and Meowth. "You're going to inherit millions one day, you nincompoop! Stop blubbering like a . . . like a blubbering person!"

Her failed comeback was excused by Gio. "Oh great . . . she's gone."

"Gone? What do you mean?", Delia snarled defensively inches away from his face. "I'm perfectly fine! There's no reason I can't act like this! What, you've never seen an upset woman before! How dare you!"

Delia's strange behavior hadn't quite occurred to him until now. Although that wasn't particularly his center of interest, as Delia clearly hadn't inferred that yet. "When I meant gone . . . I didn't mean you." With a casual smile, he lifted his hand beyond her shoulder and pointed to the ocean where their ferry had already set sail. "Our only means of reaching Cianwood is long gone now."

"Meow . . .", Groaned Meowth in a depressed groan.

Seeing the sullen faces of his companions, Spencer couldn't help but feel severely guilty. After all, he was responsible, no thanks to his stubborn moment of greed. All hoped seemed to be lost now. What good would come from spending his riches if his friends were going to hate him the whole time? "Listen, I uhh . . .", He started to apologize . . . but before continuing, the unbelievable entered the corner of his eye! Heading straight for the pier from afar . . . was another ship, a larger one to be exact! "Guys . . . I think I know how to make it up to you."

The approach of the ship was forthcoming rather hastily, thus grabbing Gio and Delia's attention in just seconds. "Another ship!", Gio praised as he began to rush further down the pier. "Come on, lets get moving!"

They met a vivider view of the royal white ship once halted at the edge of the pilaster. The design length of the liner was 360 meters! It held a height of 75 meters, roughly. Indeed, it was a wide ship, likely capable of housing over 5,000 passengers! Over the edge of the recreation deck, so many passengers from other cities were already waving benevolently to the pier. But Gio nor his friends hadn't noticed . . . because printed upon the steel-plated bow of the ship was the trademark symbol of the one and only, Briskomy!

Spencer frowned, unwelcoming the very thought of selling out to Briskomy's siphoning for extensive notoriety. "Well . . . we'd be total hypocrites to even think about boarding that thing."

"Anyone would be.", Gio agreed with him for once.

It wasn't long before the ginormous S.S Briskomy had stationed at the marina's berth, forcing Gio and his friends to draw back to make room for the ship's ramp to descend from the passenger entrance of the hull. A young man dressed in a low-ranking police uniform was marching down the ramp. He had long flowing regalia hair, and dark brown eyes, both abbreviating a heightened sense of order and strife. Stepping off the ramp, he instantly crossed paths with the lounging teenagers. "Welcome.", He spoke cynically but with a polite smirk. "My name is Ed and I'm presiding as head of this ship's security. If you find yourselves experiencing problems aboard the ship, don't hesitate to let me know immediately!"

'Aboard the ship'? Gio, Delia, and Spencer were a bit skeptical to reply. Really, there was no bother to do so. Another distraction had already cut into the uncomfortable exchange!

A humongous mob of screaming civilians were storming down the pier, dangerously concussed to trampling those standing in their way! Luckily, Gio and his friends jumped out of the way just in time, allowing the disorganized crowd to pile onto the ship like a living whirlwind out of hell!

Ed, the security officer, carefully collected each of their tickets, being cautious not to be pulled into their violent fracas. "Please, calm down! You'll all be able to sail with us shortly, I assure you! Just try to contain your enthusiasm!"

None of them appeared to be listening. In fact, as soon as they were allowed to board, the massive migration intensified on the way up the ramp, with passengers excitedly screeching and suitcases swinging in all directions!

After they had vanished into vessel, Spencer released a squeamish cringe. He had pre-maturely overlooked the fact those poor souls were among the millions that had come to appreciate Briskomy. Being suddenly reminded of that sickening actuality, he turned to face his friends with a forming glower, implying that they should leave the area at once. He didn't want to be upfront by verbally specifying his disgust, considering Ed was standing right there.

But Ed had yet to conceive their discomfort. Instead, now that the new round of passengers had been dealt with, he continued to bid his greetings. "Sorry about the chaos. As I was saying before, we've been expecting you for quite some time."

Behind Gio's legs, Meowth's furry face became inquisitively puzzled. "Meeeow?"

Gio, staring wide-eyed at Ed, tapped his pointer finger against the rim of his own chest. "Wait a minute, us? You've been expecting us?"

"Well not me personally.", Stipulated the spirited officer. "I've been asked not to reveal any further much information, so if you'll just board the ship-"

Delia took a few steps back, unsure of this undefined offer. "That's most kind of you sir, but we can't! We . . . err . . . haven't even purchased tickets!" Hopefully she wouldn't have to supply a backup excuse. Again, this was something she was greatly fluctuant of.

Ed chuckled deeply and shook his head. "No, I don't think you understand. The cruise is free, specifically for the three of you! There's no need to panic-"

The three friends staggered in mid-breath! "Free?", Gio repeated in a stressed exhale. "But . . . why free?"

"And why just for us?", Spencer anxiously added.

The officer barely flinched, not even a shrug a escaped his disciplined posture. The bombardment of questions didn't seem to affront him. "Again, I've been asked to save that surprise for later.", He replied simply. "We're sort of on a tight schedule and we'd very much like to progress through the Whirl Island before morning, so if you'd please-"

There was so little time to discuss a verdict! Shamefully though, the word 'free' was all Spencer needed to hear to make up his mind! "Not only do I get to keep my dad's loan . . . but I'm also getting a free cruise! This day just keeps getting better!" Without thinking twice, Spencer scampered up the ship's ramp, chanting like a raving lunatic while holding his money to the skies!

Gio rolled his eyes and muttered: "So much for not being a hypocrite . . ." But to Gio, Spencer's choice didn't seem all that appalling. The poor dolt hadn't any dignity to dispense in the first place. "Don't worry.", He whispered to Delia. "There's nothing Ed can say that will convince me to-"

"Did I mention that a majority of the passengers are trainers?", Ed interrupted, luring Gio's attention to his mouth. "Aboard the S.S. Briskomy, we highly encourage Pokemon Battles, as it allows many trainers to exalt their battling skills and potential!"

Gio surprised Delia with a guilty smile. "Well . . . for today, go ahead and call me a hypocrite!" He and Meowth suddenly took off across the elevated ramp, their hearts aching for battles and mischief!

Now Delia was left standing alone at the pier. With a slight frown, she stiffened her posture and started for the ship, tightly hugging the straps of her bag which looped over her shoulders. "Well . . . I guess I don't have much of choice now do I." On the brighter side, this doable, though unanticipated, resolution to their problem was just another way for Gio to evade confrontation with Metsuma.

"There's really nothing to worry about.", Ed assured her. Only little did she value his helpfulness but really, he wasn't too concerned. It wasn't particularly his job to consult the passengers, only to protect them. With everyone securely on board, Ed returned to the ship, allowing the ramp to abjure. Within minutes, the cruise liner had already set course for Cianwood City, Olivine now nothing more than a memory to Gio and his trusted compatriots.

…...

Meanwhile, inside the ship's luxurious royal promenade, a flush of red layered the walls of the grand hall, decorated neatly with painted portraits of Briskomy's finest executives and business leaders, Metsuma's picture hanging over-top the staircase that led to his master-suite. At the bottom of the stairs, however, he and Captain O'Neil were lounging about, sharing stories over a bottle of champagne. "Really, you've done a splendid job with the preparations, captain.", Metsuma expressed his gratitude, holding up his glass courteously. "All the passengers seem to be enjoying themselves. All our attractions are a hit, especially the casino lounge. It's packed!"

O'Neil chuckled profoundly. "It's just an honor to see you again, sir. You've really taken Briskomy to new extremes, to prosperous lengths!"

"Nice of you to say." Metsuma toasted his glass to the captain's and then continued. "I take it you'll be joining my troupe and I for tonight's dinner party over on the main deck? If all goes as planned, it should be a blast." In other words, his more than fitting opportunity to meet his new son. "Think of this as . . . my personal, cordial invitation."

Again, the old captain laughed. "It would be my pleasure." They drank to their arrangements, but it was short-lived.

Ed must have entered the hall on his toes to not have been heard. With a pleasing smile, he halted before Metsuma. "The guests you asked me to invite have been boarded. Anything else I can do?"

Content that the cruise's festivities were about to begin, Metsuma downed the last of his wine and handed the glass to O'Neil. Turning to Ed, he mirrored the security officer's grin . . . with a fouler one. "No, you've done enough for me, thank you. You're dismissed."

Ed held his smile just long enough for him to escape the hall's duplicitous essence. "A rather unusual character . . .", He noted in his thoughts. "But then again, who am I to judge? I'm just doing my job." And with that, he made his way back to his office.

…...

The Lido Deck of the ship was overrun with recreational attractions and activities, mobbed with swimming and sunbathing passengers at every turn of the head! At the center of the bustling deck was the swimming pool, boundless in length and infested with little children and their water Pokemon, all of them splashing about avidly like a lake of water hit by cannon fire. To the right of the pool was a volleyball court, and it appeared to be the territory of the older youths, specifically sprightly teenagers with competitive stances. Delia, on the other hand, was one of the many sunbathers passionately absorbing the daylight star's sweltering heat, though not quit yet asleep. But why? For Delia, maybe it was the disruptive breeze that passed through every now and then . . . or perhaps it was the discomposure of being out at sea, the tide shuffling against the ship's steel armor like a flimsy sword against a knight's trusty shield of bastille. No, it wasn't that. What it was, it was still the unsureness of being consigned aboard Briskomy's property. With an exasperated sigh, Delia sat up from her bench chair and shifted her sunglasses over her brows. From where she lounged, she could see Gio and Meowth facing off with another young male trainer on the other side of the swimming pool. "Are those two really already on the move?" It was definitely no shocker. Battling was always on Gio's mind, unlike she whom had taken Faith and the rest of her Pokemon to the daycare on the lower deck so she could make the best of her stay. "Oh maybe I shouldn't have left Faith with those people! How do I know they can be trusted? They're employed by Briskomy!"

"Meowth, use Fury Swipes!", Gio quaked the deck's attention with his impressive battle commands. He tilted his head from Meowth and to the trainer across from him, apprehensively standing over his Elekid as Meowth closed in on his team of two.

Meowth extracted his glistened-clean claws! His pace hastened and Elekid remained placid, knowing already it had done nothing to harm Meowth so far and most like never would. With one swift and sharp clobber of Meowth's claws, Elekid hurtled back into it's trainer, knocking both of them into the pool! "Meow! Meow!"

"Anyone else care to challenge me?" When everyone immediately went back to minding their own business, Gio smirked. "Hmph, I figured as much."

The defeated trainer swam away fearfully, unaware that his plunge in the water had created a rather large splash that ultimately soaked Delia!

Delia jumped from her chair in disgust and blanketed herself with a dry towel. When Gio came over to see if she was okay, she sneered: "Why is it that I can never tan without you or a battle buddy showering me with either sand or water? What's next, mud?" Ellen's beach entrance from the day before was still an intrusion she hadn't gotten over.

But that was beside the point. Gio could see she was still exorbitantly mussed from this whole arrangement. He at least apologized for the battle's messy outcome. "Sorry, I was . . . in the moment."

Meowth vouched with a nod. "Meow, meooow!"

Among all the content individuals scattered abroad the deck, Spencer was nowhere to be found. Gio glanced around thoroughly to seek him out . . . but no luck. Normally, he wouldn't give a Rattata's ass over Spencer's whereabouts. But because he was around he and Delia so often, the environment of his scarceness seemed almost unadaptive. "Where is that intolerable nutcase? I haven't seen him since we settled in our dorms."

Delia shook her head unbelievingly. "I'd say he's kept busy. Money's a magnet, after all."

He chuckled. "What make's you say that?" He watched her hand point to the deck's access way. He veered his head toward the indicated direction and suddenly, his eyes gaped broad. "No way!"

Spencer walked onto the deck with a proud smile on his face, a fancy black blazer covering his torso and the stash of his father's cash sticking out from the jacket's chest-pocket.

Grabbing ahold of either side of Spencer's offered wrists were two gorgeous twin models, not much older than him but exceedingly taller. Both of them matched in looks; lengthy blonde hair extending over their shoulders, tan skin to perfection, exquisite facial features, and sparkling blue skirts blessing their thin symmetrical figures.

As the three laughed while chitchatting, Spencer fastened his arms around their waists and guided them over to meet up with Gio and Meowth half way. "Ah, Chives, I'd like to introduce you to Heather and Hannah, the ship's loveliest and prettiest young passengers." The two girls giggled as Spencer went on flattering them. "They're on their way to Cianwood for a photo-shoot."

"Wait a minute!", Gio angrily growled. "Did . . . did you just call me Chives?"

The girl on Spencer's right gasped. "Oh my gosh, does he like not know his own name?"

"Does he at least still know he's your butler?", Asked the other young model.

Gio clenched his fists and felt his whole body tense. "BUTLER!" For the first time in their 'friendship', it was Gio who was playing as Spencer's pawn, a most unusual circumstance. To make the situation even more degrading, he could hear Delia cracking up behind him. But he ignored her and focused on putting Spencer in his place. "Spencer, you have got to be kidding-"

"You'll have to forgive him.", Spencer pardoned on Gio's behalf, hoping to enthuse his beautiful company with his gentleman manners. "He's clearly seasick and it's made him a bit edgy, as you can see." They returned to giggling and Spencer continued. "Chives, the girls and I were just about to partake in a game of Volleyball. Will you be okay on your own, old boy?"

Gio bit down on his lip and grumbled: "Actually, Master Hale, I'd feel much better if I could have just a moment of your time in private!"

"Absolutely, old boy!", Laughed the imposer in his prime. He released his female cortege and directed them to the volleyball court. "Go on ahead ladies, I'll be right with you!"

"Okay but don't be too long Spency!", The two beauties jabbered playfully before hurrying off further down the deck.

Spencer followed Gio back to Delia's sunbathing spot and immediately, he explained himself. "Alright listen, I know this isn't what you were expecting . . . but these girls are amazing! Please guys, don't ruin this for me! I'm finally the center of attention!"

"Are you sure it doesn't have anything to do with that wad of cash you have in your vest pocket?", Delia suggested the obvious. Of all justified people, she had always been certain that Spencer would normally be the one to make wise choices, the one to dismay greedy temptation. "Spencer, I'm sorry to say this but there's only one thing those girls are interested in and that's your money."

Spencer shrugged. "So what if they think I'm rich? I'm fine with that! Guys, just please give me one day to enjoy the grandeur and I promise that by tomorrow, I'll be back to my old self!"

That didn't necessarily sound like good news to Gio. But then again, pretending to be Spencer's butler . . . that was just torture. "One day and that's it, you hear? I want to enjoy this cruise too . . . but not while fooling your supermodel friends into thinking I'm your lowlife servant!"

Suddenly, a volleyball with the appearance of a Voltorb whizzed past their heads, across the deck, and finally, landed at the foot of another passenger's beach chair.

"Chives?", Spencer raised his voice in continuation of his earlier performance. "Would you please go and fetch that ball? The dears and I would like to start the game just as soon as possible."

Delia derided her friends with a final grin and then leaned back in her chair, resuming her submergence in the sunlight.

Without a choice or alternative bargain, Gio found himself wandered in the opposite way of direction to retrieve the volleyball sitting beneath beach chair of an extremely still passenger. He couldn't visually make out the person's face as it was practically buried behind a Newspaper. "Sorry if we disrupted you.", Gio expiated as he reached underneath the bench and collected the Voltorb Ball. But when the man did not stir, Gio backed off cautiously and after one last suspicious glance, distanced back toward his friends.

Darius Scouter lowered the newspaper against his chest and raised his sunglasses, procuring a vivid but brief glimpse of his target, his clueless target walking away like the casual, innocent child he wasn't. Grimacing menacingly, Scouter's fireball eyes crouched back down to the headlines of the Newspaper which read: 'Metsuma Rocket to make special appearance on the S.S. Briskomy!' And then, a slight sneer of appeasement surfaced from his displayed perversity. "Now isn't that something peculiar.", He whispered for only himself to hear. "Enjoy your precious cruise while you can, Ketchum. I'm back . . . and damn it, I'm not letting you out of my sight this time . . ."

…...

It was only about a few hours later when the cruise' excitement had simmered down to a more a lenient composure. The sky had already begun to turn dark upon the ascendance of the moon and it's starlight cavalry, the sun just about ready to retire for a good several hours. Together, Gio and Delia walked through the halls of the passenger cabin on the higher deck, both intent to freshen up in their dorms so they could later feast on the buffet being served in the ship's cafeteria. Besides, Gio wanted to change out of his tank top and trunks. For Delia, her usual swimsuit and flip-flops. They two of them could only handle so much of the cruise's industrious alacrity.

As they walked, Delia discerned Meowth's absence. Naturally, Briskomy popped into her mind. What if this was their scheme, to steal Gio's Pokemon! "Where's Meowth at? We didn't leave him on the Main Deck, did we? What if . . . what if he was stolen?"

"Relax!", Gio chortled at her lovable fretfulness. "He was tired after battling so many trainers so I left him at the Daycare Center with Faith for a while, a little chance for him to rest. We can pick up both of them later if that makes you feel better, alright?"

She stared at him, shaking her head. "Gio . . . it's not just that I'm insecure about. Don't you find all of this even a little strange?"

What if she was right? He feared that possibility. Was it really a wise measure of action to take this risk, sailing with their longtime enemies in order to reach Cianwood City? But if all of this truly was a setup, why hadn't the ones in charge made their move against he and his friends yet? "Well . . . I guess it is a little bizarre.", He admitted. "But I'm not ready to jump to conclusions. Besides, by this time tomorrow, we'll already be in Cianwood City."

"Alright . . . if you say so. I trust you." Delia faked whatever smile she could conjure . . . but in seconds, it had faded to a desolate frown.

He loathed that facial vexation she'd make every time she was upset. He wanted to do something special to enliven her dejected spirit Up ahead, he could see their separate dorms a hallway apart . . . but only a few feet closer to them was a separate corridor that led to a place he had inspected earlier while contemplating his romantic stratagem to bring back an old spark. With a mischievous smile, he grabbed Delia by the hand and pulled her into the passage. "Come on, I want to show you something!"

"Gio!", She squealed, purposely lagging and fighting to break away from his binds. "I'm really not in the mood for anymore surprises today, alright?"

He disdained her complaints and continued to lead her into the prohibited hall. After climbing some stairs and conducting a few twists and turns, they eventually found themselves on the higher deck, a vicinity off limits to the ordinary passenger. Regardless, he resisted her struggling and towed her through a new doorway . . . that led to the most beautiful veranda with the most beautiful viewing of the ocean!

Delia froze with a sharp inhale, cupping her mouth at the captivating spectacle of the seascape's rapture, magnifying as far as where the sun touched the anemic horizon! The soft red glow of the setting sun was spanning out across the shimmering surface of the endless sea, sending sparks of light up to Delia's eyes which she closed moments later while tilting her head back so the last of the sunset could catch her fully on the face. Peace, this is what peace felt like. And ironically, she was absorbing this serenity sensation in the presence of Briskomy. Who would have thought?

Her happiness being his own, Gio furthered her delight and lightly nudged her closer to the handrail so she could wrap her hands around the bar and just feel herself drift like a leaf into autumn. He could sense the degree of submission she was granting to the environment around her. All he wanted now . . . was to be apart of that environment, make himself feasible to her liking. With trembling hands, he too grabbed ahold to the rail, all while slowly compressing his torso against her erect back. After a slightness in hesitation, he leaned his head in and whispered into her ear: "Still not in the mood for anymore surprises?"

She failed to gather his inference, his wanting to please her! Their relationship had refrained a while back, thereby her reluctance to conjecture his actions. "Wh . . . why do you ask?"

Instead of answering, he shut his eyes and turned her head to his own, their lips only a hair apart. And what astounded him above all was that she wasn't refusing this . . . but accepting it rather! All he had to do now . . . was go for it and prove himself worthy! Like teamwork, their lips prepared to clash! No longer could they restrain themselves from the ulterior desire of which they shared!

"Is this a bad time?", Impeded the chilling voice of an older gentlemen.

The two reckless young bodies sprang away from the rail, startled by the appearance of Metsuma Rocket, the one and only standing at the entrance of the veranda! Behind him were two other business leaders; Hyland Feelix and Rosie Farro, both Briskomy political representatives whom Gio and Delia recognized from the news. Like Metsuma, they were attired in their fanciest clothing. But Metsuma was the real sight to behold, for Gio especially, who was incapable of speech at the moment and it wasn't because of the man's elegant sense of style. It was because he was truly standing before him, up front and in person . . . and pure rage was invading the pit of his emotional bunker, thought to be safe and sound. Gio wanted to scream out his fury . . . but his voice no longer responded. He tried to move his hands . . . but nothing happened.

Metsuma recognized the anger within the boy easily, like a lighted match in a pitch black dungeon. He observed the child up and down, inside and out, all while internally revering the teenage specimen that had eluded his army of criminals for almost three years now. "So this is him. Already, his persecuting gaze, reminiscent of his father . . . and yet, his frightening vibe, almost as marvelous as mine . . ." This was just the kind of first impression he had expected; a soundless yet meaningful exchange of silences. "That emotional disposal . . . he won't set it free. I do wish he would though . . ." Remembering his company on standby, Metsuma ushered introductions. He stepped forward with a wide, handsome smile and extended his hand out to Gio. "Giovanni Ketchum . . . I've waited a long time to meet you . . ."

This moment was the very reason Delia had wanted away from Olivine City! None of this was making sense now! But to contain Gio's impending wrath, she nudged him to shake the hand of the man waiting on their reaction.

Though he didn't want to, Gio grudgingly joined his hand into the other man's and gave a firm squeeze, involuntarily expelling a small portion of his aggression.

"A sturdy hand-shaker, I see.", Metsuma led his posse into a small moment of laughter. "As you probably already know, I'm Metsuma Rocket. The ones behind me are my fellow associates."

Delia forced herself to bow to the Supreme Councilman. "Nice to meet you sir, I'm Delia Rezumi. I'm Giovanni's . . . friend."

Metsuma creased his lips and folded his arms. "Is it customary for friends to engage in a kiss while watching a sunset as gorgeous as this, standing on a balcony specially reserved my party and I?"

"Oh gosh . . . this is your balcony!" Fearful of the consequences, Delia decided to do something even ruder than what Metsuma had brought to their attention. She grabbed Gio by the arm and started toward the entrance. "We're really sorry! We'll just be leaving now!"

But Metsuma blocked them off and laughed. "Why so serious? I was only joking! There's no need to be-"

There was no stopping Delia now! Regardless of Metsuma's opinion, she wanted to get out of there as soon as possible! "No really, we have to go anyway! I'm terribly sorry!"

Again, Metsuma stood in the way of their eager escape. "But we've barely acquainted! Please, I implore the both of you to at least join me and my audience for dinner tonight on the Main Deck. It'll be a more . . . appropriate time for us to get to know one and other a little better." His head spun to Gio. "Besides . . . you may find that we have a lot in common."

Delia was about to politely decline the invitation . . . but out of nowhere, Gio's voice cracked a compulsory: "Yes." After that, he walked right past Metsuma and his colleagues . . . and exited the veranda.

"Excellent.", Seethed Metsuma, his insidious smile broadening. Before Delia could follow Gio, he offered a final service. "I understand the both of you probably don't have the proper apparel for tonight's dinner. I'll have one of my associates provide you with something suitable as soon as possible."

Delia nodded, gulped, and made herself scarce instantaneously. Once again, she was following the advice of the sickly feeling brewing in her stomach. "I don't want to go to any dinner party. I don't even want to be on this ship anymore!"

…...

Without Permission, Delia followed Gio into his dormitory and immediately began to blast him. "Why did you accept Metsuma's dinner invitation? I thought we wanted nothing do with him!"

"No, that's what you wanted." And really, he couldn't blame her. But even though he appreciated her concern, this was his problem and not her's. "Besides, I've got new intentions in mind." Standing at the foot of his bed, he started pondering at just how he'd renovate his confrontation with Metsuma.

Delia was completely lost. "What is it?"

He turned away from the bed and signaled her to shut the door behind them. Once she did, he expounded his ambitions thoroughly. "I'm back to my original plan, the one I came up with back in Olivine City: A brutal confrontation! I'm going to denounce Metsuma in front of all his guests at dinner tonight and show him that no one can take the place of my real father! And if it gets ugly . . . then so be it!"

"No, no violence!", Delia pleaded to him. "You know I hate that! Every time you lose control of yourself, I'm always the one who has to stop you from making an awful mistake!"

His voice became very masculine and superior in the most malicious way. His eyes narrowed in on her, thus highlighting just how serious he was being. "My decision is made! If you're not going to support me then back off!"

For a moment, as their eyes met, Delia felt the sudden suspicion that Gio's protectiveness of his father's title was just an excuse for him to eruct his destructive habits. Nevertheless, she dared not argue. He would never abide to playing coward. "In that case, should we go and find Spencer?", She sullenly and hopelessly asked.

Gio shook his head. "Lets not ruin the evening."

"Believe me, I think you and your new daddy have already accomplished that.", She bitterly worded beneath her breath while heading toward to the door.

But Gio heard her attack . . . and was not in the least bit amused. "If you don't want to be apart of this then don't. But quit antagonizing me!" Her feet froze, instigating him to bid her a final comment. "I thought you said you trusted me . . . but as it turns out, maybe you aren't such a horrible liar." The thought made his demon unfurl a little and start to grumble with anger and frustration.

Delia wondered if she really was being unreasonable. Who was she to stand in Gio's way, to prevent him from facing his obstacles? She thought herself a caring person, at first anyway. But apparently that was not the case. "I do trust you.", She hushedly whispered to him. "I'm sorry for what I said. But I'm still very unsure about all of this. What if you lose your temper and-"

"I won't.", Assured the soft part of his voice. "Because you'll be right by my side, keeping an eye on me . . . right?" He moved closer to her and entwined their hands, his eyes pinning her down like tangible pressure over her weakened heart.

After a long pause, she eventually obliged. " . . . Okay."

…...

On the lower deck of the S.S. Briskomy resided Ed's office compartment, a small uncomfortable enclosure with no special garnish to it besides a wooden desk in the center of the dorm. Ed sat there with his attention fixed upon the stacks of passenger files resting underneath his hovering fingers. He heard the room door creek open but didn't bother to look up. He knew exactly who had entered his sanction. "I was a bit curious to know why another cop had snuck aboard this ship, prowling the hull and interrogating innocent passengers."

Darius Scouter towered over the desk of the other man and grunted: "I've got my eye on only one passenger. And by the way . . . it's good to see you again, deputy." Indeed, he recognized the other man as a former partner of his . . . and aside from that, a damn good friend he had known since his beginnings in law enforcement.

Ed rose to his feet with a pensive, somber frown. "That's officer to you, Detective Scouter!", He corrected his old acquaintance. "And until I land that position in Cerulean, I'm head of this ship's security."

"Don't be so damn cocky!", Scouter's tone erupted to it's superlative. He slammed his fists down onto the desk and leaned forward. "You never would have made it through the academy if I wasn't at your side every step of the way to guide you."

Conserved and unthreatened, Ed fought back. "In the outside world, you may outrank me . . . but aboard this ship, I'm the one in charge!" Their interchange of visuals only intensified . . . until Ed's smile finally liberated from the parsimonious servitude of his profession's attitudinal requirements. The desk rumbled as they laughed simultaneously. Friendlily, Ed reached his palm to Darius. "Put her there, old friend!"

Darius embraced the handshake. "So you do have some manners after all."

"Well unlike you, I've maintained a soft spot in my heart." Ed reclaimed his empty seat and began to tend to his paperwork again, thought still managing to multitask by initiating conversation. "So what can I help you with, Darius? I assume it's not another one of your wild goose chases to bring down Briskomy, is it?"

Darius' silence said it all.

"No . . .", Gasped Ed in disbelief. When he had asked Scouter that question, he meant it merely in a joking manner! Suddenly, the paperwork was left untouched again. "My god Darius, this obsession of yours has got to stop already!"

No matter how foolish it sounded, Scouter was persistent in validating his objective. "This time I've got an undeniable hunch, Ed! One of the passengers aboard this ship has all the information I need to exploit the conspiracy linking Briskomy to Torino!"

Metsuma Rocket immediately came to mind and it repulsed Ed! "You're really going to spy on Metsuma Rocket, the Supreme Councilman of the National Senate?"

"Even better.", Darius hinted before revealing the culprit. "Giovanni Ketchum, son of Rita Ketchum and the keeper of all the conspiracy's secrets!"

This was the final straw! In fact, the reason Ed no longer kept in contact with his former partner was because of this very tendency! "Please Darius, enough of this conspiracy nonsense! If Lieutenant Jenny finds about your little excursion, you'll be kicked off the force! Can you really afford to take that risk?"

Darius' nostrils flared as he expansed his desperation! "Hell, I'll take that risk to the grave, and Giovanni along with me! That kid's hiding something Ed, I can feel it in my bones!"

"And now you're trying to involve me?", The other officer laughed critically. "I've got a job to do, Darius! I don't have time for-"

The expression of the tenacious cop was just begging for a chance, determined to reach an aspiration he knew was authentic! "Ed . . . please.", He urged with his whole heart in it, the deliverance off his tongue going soft. "I promise you I wont screw this up."

Ed kept his body language straight and rigid, disclosing the fact that he was considering the was one thing he could count on. If Darius' suspicions were proven correct, he'd undoubtedly end up sharing the nobility and praise. "What do you want me to do?", He effortlessly huffed.

Scouter's terms were rather plain and simple. "Just give me the time I need, along with permission to take whatever means necessary aboard this ship to do what I gotta do!"

Ed leaned his head against his fist. "Darius . . . I don't know about this-"

"C'mon Ed.", Scouter continued to persuade him. "It's like you said: in the outside world, you outrank be. But here and now, I'm the one who needs your help!"

As a tolerant friend, and frankly a bit of a sympathetic pushover, Ed figured little harm could come from permitting Darius' undertaking. But he too had some conditions. "Oh . . . alright, fine. Go ahead and conduct your investigation . . . but try and be discrete about it!" The last thing he needed was to be thrown overboard.

TO BE CONTINUED . . . .

(A/N: This chapter was supposed to be a lot longer but because it's my birthday, I'm in a good mood and decided to update it in two parts :) . In the next chapter, Gio finds himself engaging Metsuma for the sake of his father's honor . . . but his intentions don't go quite as planned, as Metsuma begins to infer Gio's aggressive mind as the key to triggering the boy's understanding of who he truly is inside: a monstrous villain, just like himself.)