With our first battle round about to go underway, I looked down at my two Pokéballs. May had already defeated Harley, which she was pretty proud of and he was still off sulking, however I now faced a very strong looking coordinator called Arty. He had a powerful duo of a Swampert and Golem, which shouldn't be too much of a problem for me.
"Okay Gardevoir, Gallade, it's show time!" I called and sent them out. Gallade instantly struck his battle pose, elbow swords lengthening as Gardevoir closed her eyes and looked as elegant and graceful as she could whilst sparkling. Our time began and the battle was on.
"Swampert, use Water Gun, Golem, you use Rollout!" Arty practically bellowed and I smirked, taking a deep breath to keep my cool.
"Reflect and Leaf Blade." I countered simply and both Pokémon moved with alarming speed. Gardevoir held out her hands and a large shimmering shield of blue of different colours appeared, reflecting the Water Gun attack with beauty right back at Swampert as Gallade slashed his glowing green blades, stopping Golem in his tracks and flung it back.
"Incredible! A powerful start from these branched evolution pairs. This could get very interesting indeed." Vivien announced as she watched our battle.
"Argh! Golem, use Earthquake and Swampert, jump up onto Golem!" Arty directed and his Pokémon nodded. Instantly Gallade swept Gardevoir off her feet as Earthquake was struck, making everyone gasp and then awe as the knight jumped up into the air.
"Use Psychic, hold yourselves up!" I called out to them. "And Gardevoir, Magical Leaf on both of them!"
"Dodge it!" Golem tried to roll away but in its haste, knocked Swampert flying from its back, making it land on the ground hard however with a graceful flourish of her arm, still held in in Gallade's safe grip, Gardevoir loosened her attack and both struck with super effect, not missing despite them trying to dodge. "What?! How come it chased after them?" Arty yelled, gripping his head as he began to sweat, feeling the pressure.
"Because Magical Leaf is something you can't just dodge, it never fails to hit that way." I explained as I looked up to Gallade. "Okay, bring yourselves down now, then strike out with a double Psychic attack!" Gallade and Gardevoir instantly began to move, Gallade letting Gardevoir float out of his arms before they turned and blasted the arena with a powerful attack, sweeping back Golem and Swampert as they landed in the middle of the stage. "Sweep it up into a whirlwind and add Magical Leaf!" I called out over the noise and Gardevoir instantly began to twirl, dancing as she went with Magical Leaf floating all around them.
The mixture of serenity and power shocked and awed the audience, causing them to stare with mouths hanging open and wide eyes as my Pokémon circled one another until finally, Arty ran out of points and his Pokémon were knocked out the battle.
Well, it was a great warm up. "No! No, no, no!" Arty yelled, stamping his feet. "I can't have lost, I can't have! No!"
"Wow, sore loser." I blinked before laughing and running happily to my two heroes. "Way to go guys, I'm so proud of you!" I told them and they both turned to me, smiling. Gallade nodded his head, silent as ever but Gardevoir reached out and embraced me, lifting me up with her Psychic so that I could reach, making me giggle before Gallade hugged me as well.
So, I proceeded to the second stage. Only thing was, my next opponent was Sophia. "Now folks, this is an interesting twist in our tail. Apparently Ruby and Sophia faced each other once before in battle, only last time it was at the Johto League Silver Conference. This could be the battle of the century, with tensions running high as both are eager to make their mark. Can Ruby overcome her last defeat? Let's find out. Begin!"
"Too right I can. It's show time!" With both my Pokémon on stage, I waited for Sophia who gave me a giggle then smirked.
"My darlings, come greet your fans!" I was met with a stunning vision of a beautiful Altaria and Delcatty. "How do you like my new Pokémon Ruby dear?"
"I pity them for being yours. Gallade let's go, use Psychic on Altaria, Gardevoir, Magical Leaf!" Both my Pokémon instantly jumped into action, Gardevoir dancing as she moved whilst Gallade moved with fighting style, however I'd trained and taught him how to be fluid and elegant in his movements too so that he mirrored Gardevoir perfectly.
"Altaria, Cotton Guard." Sophia giggled. "And Delcatty my little sweetie, Blizzard!" Instantly Altaria rose up and the cotton on her body expanded, fluffing up and trailed a sparkling dust as she lifted up into the air to avoid the Blizzard.
"Reflect!" I quickly countered and Gardevoir changed swiftly from a Magical Leaf into Reflect, shielding Gallade behind it as well to deflect the Blizzard, however it was so powerful that it began to push her back slightly as Gallade focused on Altaria.
His Psychic attack blasted her out the air, swiping at Delcatty however it jumped out of the way. Gardevoir's Reflect was frozen solid, forming dark blue and black ice which was quite beautiful in some ways. "Leaf Blade on the ice Gallade, then Gardevoir use Psychic!" I decided, realising that the ice would have a serious effect on Altaria, being a part dragon type. Plus if Sophia used Blizzard again, I can use that to do damage back.
Gallade cut the ice easily, slicing through then Gardevoir moved after him, flinging the ice up at Altaria and Delcatty, who evaded more easily that the Altaria, who got struck down with some major damage and our points began to even out.
"Delcatty, use Take Down on Gallade, Altaria honey, use Dragon Pulse on it too!" Instantly my mind worked, cogs spinning wildly in my head.
"Gardevoir, shield Gallade from Altaria and Gallade, Close Combat!" Fighting type moves were super effective against normal types. Let's see Delcatty try get out of this one. I watched as Gardevoir moved in front of Gallade, floating in the air and she held out her hands, taking the pulse head on and everyone gasped as it disappeared upon impact, not doing any damage whatsoever, merely burst into a bunch of purple sparkles which showed off Gardevoir's appeal very nicely. It seemed when it comes to displaying beauty, Sophia is very out of her own depth.
Gallade began to attack Delcatty, who tried to jump out of the way and only avoided some of the attacks before Gallade landed his mark and he knocked it back with several kicks and punches, draining a lot of its energy through damage. The points were now in my favour.
Sophia screamed out loud in frustration as I stood there, keeping my cool with my Pokémon standing at a slight angle, positioning me at the centre as I tilted my hat slightly, smirking. "You could always quit you know." I offered but Sophia only grit her teeth and growled before pointing.
"Use Aerial Ace and Shadow Ball!" She yelled and before I knew it, the attacks were launched. My eyes widened as Gallade took the Aerial Ace from Altaria and Gardevoir the Shadow Ball, both being effective moves and they continued to be struck again and again, making my eyes go wide in panic. What do I do?
Gallade managed to leap, standing in front of Gardevoir who collapsed to the ground but still managed to hold her upper body upright, breathing heavily as Gallade bravely took each of the Shadow Ball hits.
Memories flashed through my mind, my heart suddenly speeding up to an uncontrollable pace as I saw the last battle we'd had, and how painfully awful it was to see all my Pokémon get hurt, and the snide remarks and stabbing comments of Sophia, it just got too much back there, and now it looks like she's overwhelmed me again. WHAT DO I DO?
Looking at Gallade and Gardevoir, it didn't seem they could take much more and Gardevoir had already used Reflect, it was the only thing that was protecting them at the moment, halving the damage however it was soon going to break, I…my mind's gone blank. I just…I just don't know…
"YOU CAN DO IT BABY!" Someone suddenly yelled from a silent crowd and I whirled around, eyes going wide. "YOU SHOW THAT STUCK UP BRAT EXACTLY WHO SHE'S MESSING WITH!"
"M-Mom?" I blinked, seeing her standing up with dad, both of them waving at me.
"You can do it honey, just relax!" Dad cheered and then Ash, Pikachu, Professor Oak, Caroline, Brock, Max and May were all cheering too. My eyes filled with tears as a grateful smile lit my face, looking up into the crowds.
"Yeah! You can do it Ruby!" Suddenly my eyes narrowed and I turned my head back. My parents were here. They were here! You know what that means? There's no way I'm losing this fight.
"Gallade, Leaf Blade to deflect those Shadow Balls!" I returned to the battle and Gallade instantly leaped into action, fighting even harder than before as my heart began to slow down to a normal beat. "Gardevoir, Magical Leaf." She spun around and began to dance again, blowing her leaves towards the Shadow Balls which Gallade had spun back into the air and with each leaf she cut them to pieces so that a shower of purple sparkles rained down upon them, causing them to shine outstandingly. Sophia was not impressed.
"Use Blizzard Delcatty, you stupid Pokémon! And you bird brain, use Dragon Pulse and knock them out already!" As Delcatty forced itself to recover from the numerous hits it had already taken it then blasted my team with its Blizzard attack. Perfect.
"Gallade. Gardevoir." I called and they both narrowed their eyes, side by side. "Double Psychic attack!" I flung up my hands the same moment they did, mirroring their movements as they twisted the Blizzard around, making the entire audience gasp as it whirled around in a spiral, not even touching my team then turned back on Altaria and Delcatty.
The intense wave of ice and air swirled around and around, glowing around the edges due to Gallade and Gardevoir's Psychic before finally, I told them to let it go and both Altaria and Delcatty were defeated. Battle Off. The crowd went wild but I was deaf in the ear. I couldn't hear a thing as I looked down.
I felt sorry for those Pokémon, trained all their lives only to be thrown away the moment they made a mistake. I wish there were something I could do about it. "Gardevoir?" I looked up to see both my Pokémon looked at me with worry.
"I'm fine." I said, giving them a smile. "I'm so proud of you guys for holding in there, for not giving up on me. I don't deserve such amazing Pokémon like you." I said, tears in my eyes as I flung my arms around them both and hugged them. "I love you two."
"Gardevoir..." My Gardevoir said softly as Gallade rubbed my back. I sniffed and took a deep breath, stepping back and smiled at them again.
"Go on, you both take a long rest. You've earned it." I assured them then let them return to their Pokéballs as Vivien congratulated me on getting to the top eight coordinators at the Grand Festival. Sophia, on the other hand, was having a prissy hissy fit.
"It's not fair! I was supposed to win! These useless Pokémon couldn't even take out a flimsy Feebas!" She raged as her doting mother tried to calm her down as the tears continued to fall. "DADDY!" She screamed and I arched my eyebrow as her Pokémon groaned, trembling in pain.
"Oh dear, it seems someone is being a bad sport." Vivien said as I walked on over to the Pokémon.
"Sophia, stop crying and take care of your Pokémon!" I ordered her, making her whirl around to face me. "They need to be treated right away."
"Like I care." She sneered, making the entire stadium gasp. "I don't want them anymore, you can keep those lousy excuses for Pokémon if you want. They're of no use to me now." With that Sophia actually tossed me her Pokéballs, both of which I caught in both hands, eyes widening slightly before I narrowed them at Sophia, who flicked out her hair and walked away as the crowd began to boo.
"But Sophia! You can't just abandon your Pokémon, they need your help." Vivien called out after the spoiled brat but she just kept on walking. "Oh my…what a…how terrible." She said as I turned to the two Pokémon and gently rested my hands on their heads, making them blink up at me.
"Don't worry. You're safe now." I promised them, stroking Altaria's soft feathers and Delcatty's warm fur. "I'll take care of you and I'll make sure you find great homes." I vowed and Delcatty purred at me, weakly licking my hand as I lifted their Pokéballs. "Now return, we'll get you to the Pokémon Centre."
"And here we have a caring display from Ruby, good show! That's what we like to see here at the Grand Festival!" Vivien called out and the crowd all stood up and cheered though I was already hurrying on my way, running to the Pokémon Centre where a Nurse Joy was already there to meet me.
"Here Ruby, I'll take care of the Pokémon." She said and I instantly handed the four Pokéballs over. "It's such a shame, and in public too. They're not going to forget this day." She sighed sadly as she placed the four Pokémon on the machine to restore their health and energy. "What will you do with them? Shall I call for Officer Jenny to take them for you? I'm sure we'll be able to set them free somewhere, or find them a new home." Nurse Joy offered but I shook my head.
"No, I'll take care of them." I promised, receiving back the Pokéballs. I turned and walked away after giving Nurse Joy my thanks then found a quiet spot in the glade where I let out Delcatty and Altaria, both of whom stretched and called out happily, feeling ten times better than they did before. "Hey guys, you both look great." I said and Altaria flew down to settle beside me, folding her cottony wings around her like a soft pillow as she gazed up at me.
"Altaria Taria…" She chirped at me so I smiled and stroked her long neck as Delcatty purred, rubbing his head against me as I smiled.
"Listen, I know Sophia wasn't a great trainer, but I promise that I'm going to help you both out. Just tell me what it is you want to do and we'll sort something out." Altaria and Delcatty looked at one another, thinking before turning back to me.
"Altaria!" The Altaria looked towards the contest stadium where the next battle was taking place. A smile tugged at my lips. I guess she loved to battle in contest. Though Sophia didn't show off her appeal very well, I know someone who would love to train with a Pokémon as gorgeous as Altaria.
"In that case…have you heard about my friend May?" I asked then pointed to the screen where she was battling against her opponent, who had a Swalot and a Pinsir. "That's her. She's a beginner coordinator just like me, but she's very talented. I think what you need to start over again, learn how to really show yourself off and I think May will be able to bring that out in you perfectly."
"Altaria!" Altaria nodded her head then rubbed her cheek against mine, cooing softly as Delcatty meowed and simply continued to purr and nuzzle into me.
"And you just want to be friends, don't you Delcatty?" I asked him and he nodded his head but then began to paw at me. I sensed his insistence that I pay attention to something, so I closed my eyes and let him guide me as to what he wanted to say.
Delcatty showed me through aura how he'd once been a Skitty, and how a little boy had named him Kiki, however when the boy got a Poochyena, which was apparently way better than some Skitty, Kiki was sold to someone else. "Oh, so your name is Kiki? That's cute! I like it. Hey there Kiki, would you like to be my Pokémon?" I asked and Kiki nodded his head. "Awesome! That's so great, I'm happy for you guys." I told them both before giving them a hug. "Your worries are now over, you've got new friends just waiting for you." Kiki meowed happily then licked my cheek, making me giggle before I stood up. "Okay Altaria, return." She returned to her Pokéball, however I walked with Kiki at my side to watch the rest of May's match.
She and I both advanced to the third battle round, however I was once again facing Robert. He was a nice guy and wished me luck so I returned the favour, my new Delcatty sitting at my side to watch as I battled with Gardevoir and Gallade.
Although Gardevoir was somehow immune to dragon attacks like Twister, Robert's Milotic and Claydol just proved a little too much. He was very great at what he did and although I held my ground to the full five minutes, we lost on points, barely making a dent in Robert's score whilst I had just taken hit after hit.
"Ruby." Robert said to me as he walked over and I looked up at him, blinking slightly as I returned my Pokémon for some rest. "You are an extraordinary battler and artist. The way you bring out the best in your Pokémon is personal, as if you know them individually and very well." I gave him a smile.
"I do know my Pokémon that way. You see Robert, I don't just train with my Pokémon, I play with them. I let them out from time to time just to go for a walk or to eat ice cream. I spend time with them and I know them so well, I could pick them out from a field of Pokémon that looked exactly the same." I said to him then looked down at Kiki. "It's important for bonds to be strong in battling, right?"
"Of course. I have learned much from our battle. I thank you." He said then held out his hand. "One day, you shall certainly be surpassing me in the race for the Ribbon Cup, and most likely everyone else too." He said and I blushed humbly as we shook hands. "Well done."
"Good luck in your final battle, and thank you." The crowd all cheered as Robert turned around and lifted my hand up into the air, portraying me to the audience so I lifted my other hand and waved, spotting my parents who were gripping onto one another and sobbing proudly in the crowds.
"Mom! Dad!" I beamed, so glad that they were here to watch. Robert and I stepped away from one another, gave a bow then I walked off stage so that Robert could have his limelight, savouring the taste of victory as he prepared for his last battle.
May ran to meet me at the switch over for her battle with Drew, flinging her arms around me in a tight hug. "You were so great, I've never seen a battle more dazzling than that!"
"Thanks May, we really did our best." Kiki meowed at my side and May instantly began to fuss over my new cutie.
"Hey there sweetie, aren't you adorable?" May squealed, scratching Kiki behind the ears and he purred in response. "Is this Sophia's Delcatty? Are you keeping it?"
"Yup. Kiki's my Delcatty now. Oh and as for the Altaria, I had a little talk and…she's all yours." I said, drawing out the Pokéball then handed it to May who blinking in shock.
"What? For real?" She whispered, staring at the Pokéball. "Altaria wants me to be its trainer?"
"She loves the stage. I said if there was anyone who could bring out its full beauty, it's May. So go get them May, show Drew what you're made of and no matter what, we'll all be proud of you." I told her as she continued to stare down at the Pokéball.
"Ruby…you're the greatest friend I could have ever wished for." She said before springing into a hug once more. "Thank you so much!"
"You're welcome. Now, get out there and show off your Pokémon." I said, making her giggle as she placed Altaria's Pokéball onto her belt then hurried up onto the stage. I watched her go with a smile, anticipating a great battle when I heard someone call out my name behind me.
"Ruby?" I froze in place before whirling around.
"Mom?"
"Oh Ruby, we're so proud of you!" My mom sniffed, dad's arm about her waist as she gently wiped away her tears. "And we're so sorry we didn't tell you we were here, we just…you see…"
"It's complicated sweetheart." Dad finished for her. I didn't care, I was just so glad to see them.
"Mom! Dad!" I ran into their arms, jumping and letting them catch me, my hat falling off my head but Kiki caught it in his mouth whilst purring, rubbing his head and body against my mom as she kissed my face and hugged me tightly. "I missed you guys." I told them through tears.
"We missed you too honey." Dad said then mom looked down at Kiki.
"Now. Let's look at this little darling. Hello there sweetie!" She cooed, stroking his soft fur as I wiped my eyes, smiling as I held onto dad.
"This is Kiki. He's my newest Pokémon." I introduced as mom began to tickle his belly as he rolled over. We matched May's match together, which she lost but as the crowd began to chant for her regardless, I saw that she didn't mind too much about losing. In fact, she just seemed more fired up then ever to train and work harder than before.
So after Robert was crowned official top coordinator and winner of the Ribbon Cup, the celebrations began. I ate as much as I could, laughing as I shared with Kiki, finding out his likes and dislikes. I learned that he absolutely adored marshmallows. He couldn't get enough of the stuff so I was tossed them around most of the evening for him to catch.
My parents danced on the dance floor with moves that would shame me for years to come, however I took many photos to commemorate. I even took one of Robert and I, just for the sake of it before he went off to start on his new training regime.
With the evening in full swing, I didn't think there could be anything that could spoil it, until Harley stepped in front of me. "You know, I'm pretty surprised you got as far as you did." He said to me and I instantly narrowed my eyes.
"Hey, I worked hard for my spot, so don't even think about…"
"I just wanted to say congratulations, and what you did for those poor Pokémon? Totally divine." He said, gesturing lazily to Kiki. "I may like to win, but I care about my Pokémon doll face, and I can't stand anybody who would mistreat them. So you'd better take good care of kitten whiskers here or you'll have me to answer to." He informed simply, flicking his purple hair over his shoulder before walking away, me staring and blinking after him. Okay. That was weird.
"Well I'll be. Rubes is speechless. Now that's something you don't see every day." A voice said to me and I blinked before turning to face Gary, who snapped a photo of me and the flash of light made me blink and squint at him before my mouth fell open.
"Gary?!"
"Must you always sound so surprised to see me?" He questioned with a smirk as he folded his arms. "I came to see you compete. Missed the first round, but the appeals and battles were pretty awesome. Congrats." He said lazily as I just stared at him. Gary. Here. In Slateport City. Watched me compete. What?!
"But…you…you…"
"Come on Rubes, at least try to sound like you have a brain. Dance with me, before I get swarmed by all these girls trying to get my attention." He said and before I knew it, he was dragging me onto the dance floor.
"Kiki! Save me!" I called out but Kiki merely jumped up onto a bench, curled up and went to sleep. Thanks a lot. Gary laughed then pulled me around to face him, one hand in mine as he lifted it to spin me around.
"It seems you've been hiding a lot of talent from us all Rubes. Who knew you could make such a terrifying battler in leagues and such a beautiful performer in contest." As everyone danced around us, I stood rooted to the spot though Gary somehow managed to lift up my arms and was making me dance with him as I frowned.
"Are you mocking me?" I questioned and he arched his eyebrow.
"Now whatever gave you that idea Rubes? I'm being honest." He answered just as the music changed. I blinked as Gary reached out and placed my hand on his shoulder as his went to my waist, drawing me closer. The slow music began to lull as everyone partnered up into couples, dancing slowly with a sway though Gary was actually leading me in a waltz. What…what's going on? How come I can't think straight? Maybe I shouldn't have eaten all that ice cream. It's given me brain freeze.
My eyes locked on Gary's and his expression was soft, reading mine studiously as if he were mapping out every feature of my face to commit it to memory. "Gary, why're you acting so weird?" I asked him and the smirk returned.
"Maybe you just bring out a new side of me Rubes. I can't tell. I think I'm just amazing all the time." I gave him an unimpressed look.
"You're an idiot."
"You're a klutz."
"And you're a proud jerk." He chuckled then leaned in closer, closing the distance between us with his head pressing against mine as he whispered softly in my ear.
"And that's just how you like me." Gary informed and I considered shoving him away to deck him one, but I figured with so many children around it wouldn't be very appropriate. Besides, I might break my knuckles against a skull that thick. "What? Nothing to come back with Rubes?"
"Only that I think you have a death wish. There is a very big drop only a few feet away from us. I could easily just throw you over. Or maybe Charizard is hungry, and after he's roasted your hide he can use your bones as toothpicks." I arched an eyebrow which only made Gary give a wry laugh.
"You're the only girl I know who seems able to resist my charm. I hope your condition isn't contagious."
"Who said you even had any charm to begin with?" I questioned but Gary only smirked in reply. His hand pulled me closer to him by the waist where he artfully pulled me out of the way of another couple who seemed lost in their own little world before he spun me around elegantly. "Where did you learn to dance like this?"
"My grandpa taught me. He was quite the gentleman in his day." He informed me and I arched an eyebrow, trying to imagine Professor Oak dancing in his youth with a pretty lady. It was a little difficult. Mostly I just saw him running around after Pokémon, or trying to complete his research.
I glanced down to the beach and blinked, doing a double take when I saw May and Drew down there. They were talking, however Drew seemed to have said something that had made May blush as I could just about see it from the lights that glittered up here. That's adorable! I wonder how May feels about Drew now?
"Friend of yours, right? May isn't it?" Gary questioned and I nodded my head.
"Yeah, she's great." I said with a smile before turning to look back him. "Did you know the eggs hatched? Two small but healthy little Eevees. Vaporeon and Umbreon are very proud." I told him and Gary nodded.
"Yeah I know. I haven't seen them yet though, I only got here this afternoon." Instantly I perked up.
"Well then, let's grab some food and head back! I promised I'd bring Vaporeon some ice cream and jelly." I said, almost glad to have an excuse to jump away from Gary as the closeness was beginning to make me feel overheated. There were so many people on that floor, and the lights didn't help either.
I piled a plate high, grabbed some more bowls then carried them back to the dorm where Gary helped me out, taking some of the food I'd helped myself too as Kiki walked by our sides. "Too bad you didn't win. That Milotic trainer looked pretty tough." Gary said and I shrugged.
"I'm not guttered out by it. He's a great coordinator, and it's only made me more determined to one day win a Grand Festival cup, so there's no need to be down." I explained as we walked back, following the lit streets.
"That's good, you can't give up now Rubes, that's for sure." Gary said before opening the door. I was about to step inside but then he walked in ahead of me. Great. Thanks for being such a gentleman Gary. I showed him the way up, however as we neared the door, I began to get a sense that something was wrong.
"Rubes? What's the matter?" Gary asked as I stopped in my place, sensing great distress and fear coming from within the dorm I was staying in. The air around me turned cold and I slowly began to feel a creeping darkness settle over me, making me shiver as I drew in a light, shaky breath. "Rubes? Ruby?"
"Something's not right." I said then slowly stepped forwards. I gasped when I saw the door had been broken in half with deep scratches made into the wood, something having forced its way inside. Instantly everything fell from my arms as I jumped forwards. "Vaporeon!" I shoved my way inside as Gary called out my name, also dropping everything however as I forced the door back, I was met with the shadow of a Pokémon standing up on hind legs, a snout full of snarling fangs and glowing red eyes which turned its snarl on me. Without thinking, I screamed.
"Ruby!" Gary grabbed me and forced me behind him, backing up into a corner where Kiki instantly hid behind my legs, trembling in fear as he curled up and closed his eyes to block out the image. "Umbreon, where are you?" I gripped onto the back of Gary's shirt tightly, trembling as I stared at the creature whilst it began to prowl forwards, snarling with saliva dripping from its lips. "Okay, Electabuzz go! Thunder Punch!" Gary ordered and sent out his Pokémon.
"Electabuzz!" Its fist crackled with electricity however the creature whirled around, sending a streak of dark energy at Electabuzz and it was flung back into the wall, making it crack as Gary's eyes widened.
"No! Electabuzz return." The hungry red eyes turned on me and I was instantly filled with fear, unable to move or think anything else other than how terrified I was at that moment. It was as if I were remembering every nightmare and every fear I had ever had, moulding it into one moment as this Pokémon loomed closer. "Ruby, it's okay." Gary whispered to me, still standing in front with his arm out to shield me. Suddenly the creature pounced and I cried out again as Gary whirled around and pulled me close to protect me, however over his shoulder I could still see.
Something ploughed into the monster, flinging it back with a furious snarl before forming an aura sphere, launching it at the Pokémon and its face was lit up for a split second, revealing sharp features, dark fur with streaks of red before it growled then leaped out the window.
The lights switched on just as the Pokémon disappeared from sight. "Lucario, after it." Sam ordered and I exhaled with relief, releasing the tight grip I had on Gary though I still clung onto him for a moment. "Ruby, are you hurt?" Sam demanded swiftly and I shook my head as Gary moved back slightly, my head resting against his chest. Sam closed his eyes and sighed with relief as I felt the fear suddenly drain away from me, being taken from the room.
"Vaporeon!" I suddenly cried out and I ran forwards however she leaped out of the bedroom, worried and frightened as she leaped into my arms.
"Poreon! Vaporeon Poreon." She whined, licking my cheek and Kiki cuddled close too and I hugged them both, relieved that it was all over.
"Where's Umbreon?" Gary demanded, looking around.
"Umbre…on…" Umbreon called weakly, dragging himself up from the dining room where he'd been left after being attacked by that Pokémon just for defending its family. "Umbreon…"
"Umbreon! Are you okay?" Gary asked, picking him up as I looked over at Sam.
"What was that Pokémon? And what are you doing here? How did you get in?" I demanded to know, face hard and demanding as Sam walked over the window to see outside.
"Lucario has lost him. We were so close this time…never mind. Lucario, come back." Sam murmured softly then two moments later, Lucario jumped through the window, standing in the frame before ducking under and Sam closed it behind him. "This way." He answered my last question, giving me a hard look. Instantly I realised why he was a little ticked off.
"Thanks for saving us." I said as Gary brought Umbreon over to me so I could treat him.
"Exactly who are you?" Gary demanded to know, standing a little protectively beside me as I began to see to the leg Umbreon had favoured.
"I'm no one of your concern, boy. Now leave so that Ruby and I may discuss something private." He ordered but I instantly lifted my eyes which flashed with anger.
"Gary can stay." I emphasised his name so that he knew to use it next time. "Now answer the question, before I start to get mad." With a shake of his head Sam sat down, kicking a broken coffee table out of his way as he went.
"It was a Zoroark. Lucario and I have been tracking it for some time now, trying to find its master, however we have yet been unsuccessful. It appears tonight, it was after you Ruby." That made me look up in surprise.
"Me? Why me?" I questioned.
"Because of your aura ability and capability. You're strong, and yet to grow stronger. Some will want that kind of power for their own gain and will use you to aid themselves." Sam informed me simply as I tied off the bandage around Umbreon then rubbed his head gently as Vaporeon licked his shoulder gently.
"So you're saying Ruby's in danger?" Gary questioned but Sam only shrugged.
"Not anymore. For the time being. Now that Zoroark knows we're onto it, it'll keep away for a while." That really boosts my confidence. Lucario walked over and touched my shoulder, making me look up at him as gave a gruff but gently sound and nodded his head reassuringly.
"Who are you? Really. Tell me who you are." I said suddenly, standing up and both Kiki and Vaporeon stood at my side as I held Umbreon in my arms. "You're hiding something from me, this room is full of secrecy and I don't like the feeling of it. So just tell me the truth!"
"You know who I am. I'm just Sam, an aura guardian." He answered me again, giving me a firm look with no other hint of an expression on his face. Gary blinked in surprise, looking between Sam and his Lucario. Just then I heard footsteps, which quickly began to run and I could tell the gang was coming.
"Ruby! Ruby are you in there?" Ash yelled, kicking past the door then stopped short. "What the…"
"RUBY!" My mom practically screamed and Sam flinched before trying to bolt for the window. Oh no, he's not escaping me that easily. He's running away from my interrogation and that's not about to happen.
"Ice Beam Vaporeon." I ordered and Vaporeon instantly charged her beam at Sam, sticking his foot in place just an inch out of reach from the window as everyone poured inside.
"My word, what happened?" Professor Oak asked as everyone took in the impressive damage to the room.
"Ask him." I said coldly, glaring at Sam as he grunted and broke the ice, Lucario springing forwards however before they could fly out the window, mom's voice stopped them.
"Samuel?" So she did know him. But why does she look like her heart was shattering just by looking at him? My mom and dad shared slightly panicked glances before dad turned to me.
"Honey, have you two met before?" I nodded my head. "I see…I guess you have some questions. We'd better all just…sit down."
"Maybe we should go." Caroline suggested but at the thought of being stuck alone in this trashed place with only these three made me panic, so I quickly reached out with one hand and gripped onto Ash's.
"No. Everyone can stay." I said in a monotone and Ash looked at me before nodding his head as Pikachu jumped onto my shoulder and touched his nose to my cheek with a worried nuzzle.
"Pika Pika?" He questioned so I let go of Ash's hand and tickled him behind the ear to reassure him, passing Umbreon over into Brock's care so that he could double check I'd taken care of everything.
"I'll put the kettle on." Professor Oak said and Caroline gave a nervous smile.
"Good idea! I'll help too. Tea all round? Yes? Great!" She babbled before walking into the kitchen after Professor Oak. May and Max walked over to the sofa and sat down, facing Sam who glanced their way then watched as I came and joined them, Kiki sitting down at my feet as Vaporeon returned to check on her sleeping babies. Luckily, they were both unharmed and had slept through the entire thing as their brave daddy had fought to protect them.
Gary and Ash came and leaned against the sofa behind us, Pikachu still on my shoulder to keep me company as mom gave me a smile. "You see pumpkin, the reason we haven't exactly been staying in contact much is because…well…" She looked imploringly towards dad who sighed.
"Because Sam here warned us that you were possibly in danger. After your little display at the Silver Conference, there are many people who want to get hold of you and we knew they'd try coming after us to get to you, which is why we moved to Mossdeep for a time." I arched an eyebrow slowly. "Don't get us wrong! We didn't lie to you exactly, I really was given a promotion and the new position is in Mossdeep, it just came at the most convenient time."
"Anyway sweetie. We limited contact so people wouldn't be sure where you were. With you off travelling so much, you were hard to locate, which is why they must have waited until the moment to try and take you away." Mom said, sniffing and dabbing her eyes and I relaxed slightly.
"So who's he?" I questioned, glancing to Sam, now wary of him.
"Sam? Oh he's…he's an old friend." I sat there in silence, signalling I didn't buy it. "Well actually dear, he's your uncle." This caught my attention. I sat up straighter and almost spoke, but then I noticed how mom was fidgeting slightly, squirming in her seat and I could sense the lie pouring off her.
"No he's not. You can't lie to me mom, I've trained myself to detect lies." I informed her, quickly growing irritated.
"That's right." Max said, lifting his head. "We used to play a game where we'd all make up stuff and Ruby had to figure out if it was true or not." He said but May clamped her hand over her little brother's mouth.
"Not now Max." Mom balked slightly, beginning to glance around, refusing to make eye contact as dad shifted uncomfortably in his seat, sweating slightly as he tugged on his collar uncomfortably. Only Sam sat perfectly calm and reserved, watching me with an unwavering look.
"Listen Ruby dear, I know it may sound all a little complicated and strange, but you've got to trust us." Dad said to me and my eyes snapped to him.
"How can I trust two people who have auras filled with lies and deceit? What are you not telling me?" Mom swallowed her lips, biting on them to keep them shut, shaking her head.
"Nothing sweetheart…"
"Liar!" I leaped up and Kiki blinked up at me.
"Ruby, calm down. It's okay." Ash tried to reach out for my shoulder but I shrugged him off though Pikachu tried to shake me out of it.
"Pikachu Pi! Pika!" I picked Pikachu up off of my shoulder and handed him to May who took him as I faced my parents.
"No more hiding. I want to know the truth! Are you in danger? Are you scared of someone? Just tell me and I'll fight them all off for you! I can protect you, just please stop lying to me!" I pleaded desperately, heart hammering louder and louder in my chest.
"It's…that…we're…we're not…" Dad fumbled for the right words, going beetroot red and looking away until finally, mom couldn't stand it any longer and the truth rushed from her all at once.
"WE'RE NOT YOUR REAL PARENTS!" Then she burst into tears and hid her face. I felt as if I'd just run full speed into a brick wall. I staggered backwards, eyes widening as Lucario reached out and steadied me, worriedly holding onto my arm as his curled around my back as I took a sharp intake of breath.
"W-what? What do you mean? Of course your my parents…there's pictures…of me as a baby." I said in total confusion, shock hammering through my body as I just stood there, facing them.
"We're not your real parents, Ruby. You were given to us by your real father not long after you were born." Dad-I mean…Will informed me softly as he gently rubbed his wife's back as she continued to sob. "For your own good. Your mother wasn't in the right state of mind to take care of a child and your father wasn't able to take care of you both. Not with all his duties and responsibilities." Like that makes sense. What am I supposed to think now? What am I supposed to do?
"Who is he? Who's my real dad?" I asked but neither of them answered me, they just sat there, hand in hand and hanging their heads in shame.
"I am." Sam spoke in a melodic whisper. Finally, it became all too much. With me staring at him in shock as everyone around me gasped, I began to shake my head as tears dripped down my cheeks, wanting to clear every thought out of my mind. I have to get out of here, I have to get some air to think about this.
Turning around I bolted for the door, powering my way through and didn't look back even as everyone called out my name. Kiki chased after me, meowing and ran at my side after he'd caught up, using his body to guide me from hitting the wall as I ran blindly through the hall down the stairs then out the door, where I could still hear music playing and fireworks bursting in the sky with a thousand colours.
I ran until I was facing the ocean, looking out over the moonlit bay until finally, I broke down and curled up, giving a cry of frustration as Kiki gently pawed at my arm. "I'm fine." I lied, lifting my now tearless face as I sucked in a deep breath then shifted to get myself comfortable. "Just a little…overwhelmed." I said gently as Kiki placed his front paws in my lap then lay down, resting his head on me as I stroked his fur. "Thirteen years I've been living with them, and they never told me." I murmured. "This just keeps on getting crazier and crazier. I don't know what to think anymore."
Kiki lifted his head and meowed at me before lowering back down again. I sat watching the fireworks for a long time, watching as they decorated the stars until bubbles began to float around me. I blinked, turning my head as I watched them float and Kiki instantly leaped to try and catch them all, popping a few and I giggled.
"Pikachu Pi." I jumped slightly in hearing Pikachu and looked to see him sitting right next to me.
"Pikachu, I didn't hear you coming." I said with a weak smile before lifting him up into my lap, Kiki still jumping around like a little kitten. Pikachu watched the fireworks with me as they continued to dance through the sky, not relenting any of their spectacular beauty.
"Hey Ruby? You okay?" Ash asked as my friends all slowly approached. I could sense them coming this time. Ash, Gary, May, Max and Brock. They'd all come to offer their help, whatever it may be. Gary had Blastoise out and my old friend was blowing me some bubbles to cheer me up as he stomped on over then nuzzled my hair, making me giggle.
"Must be quite a shock, learning you're adopted that way." May said to me and I gave her a little smile.
"It's not that. It's just I'm worried that I've put my family in danger. And Sam…well I just don't know." He's my real dad? I can hardly believe it's true, however now that I think of it, it's the only explanation. The reason I seemed to know him almost instantly, the way he always seemed so warm and comforting to me, and his eyes? Well the reason they felt familiar was because they were the exact same eyes that I had.
"Well, we're still here for you Ruby. We'll never change." Brock said to me. "We're all your friends here, so you can trust us." I gave him a smile of thanks.
"Yeah. Who needs grown ups anyway?" Gary agreed, walking over. "So come on Rubes. The celebrations are all still going. How about we go join in?" He suggested but I looked down to the beach with thought.
"No. I got a better idea." I said and Max lifted his head.
"Yeah? What is it?" In answer I ruffled his hair and gave him a wink.
"Last one to the beach owes everyone else ice cream!" I yelled then charged off, Pikachu on my shoulder as Ash suddenly laughed, charging after me.
"Hey no fair! You got a head start!" Then we were all laughing, running down the path and kicking off shoes, socks and outer garments as soon as we hit the beach, jumping into the water in our shorts and shirts, though the boys took there's off, and both May and I had smartly worn our suits underneath.
We splashed around in the surf, our Pokémon all joining in and Max had a blast riding on Blastoise's back. We pranced and fooled around in the surf, fireworks exploding up over our heads. Gary grabbed me around the middle as I tried to escape after I'd shoved him underwater, making me squeal with laughter as he lifted me up easily then caught my legs under the knees, preparing to drop me in but I clung onto him, laughing uncontrollably as I let the fun distract me.
Gary whirled around, holding me tight in his arms before stopping and going still a moment, looking at me. Water dripped from his hair and down his face, but also covered his entire body, which I only just realised was quite…well…bare. And really starting to tone up. Wow, he's not the same spindly kid anymore that I once knew. "You're staring at me." I said to him quietly, looking straight into his eyes.
"You're staring at me." He argued so I smirked then shoved him away and showed him with salt water.
"Idiot."
"Loser."
"Jackass."
"Klutz!" Gary and I exchanged words with blows, splashing water at one another before the others joined in once more and laughter sung out over the bay, echoing far into the night and spiralled into a whisper until you were so far away, all you could hear was serene silence.
