Regarding the major health crisis on our planet, I just want to advise everyone to wash their hands. I've been doing that frequently and have been doing it more. Also, if there is soap and hand sanitizer, please don't hoard it, leave some for those who need it too, so they don't fall victim to the infection. I've lived through major health crisis's in my life, but this one is out of control.

Let's all pray to god that this epidemic will be taken care. My thoughts and prayers go out to those who have been infected or worse, died. I've already heard that my state just had it's first death regarding the Coronavirus.

So once again, be safe, wash your hands, try not to touch your face (I'll admit that one is hard), and keep a distance from others for the time being. Sorry I had to bring that up on a fanfiction website, but it never hurts to keep being reminded.

Anyway, now regarding the story, the battle with Siegfried isn't over yet. If you're wondering why these chapters are coming out quicker than before, it's because I've already written them. That's why you didn't get an update from mid-January until the beginning of March. I've gotten two more chapters done and a third one I'm working on which I hope will be done soon. If you know the pattern, the next chapter should be coming out in three days like the other chapters.

Enjoy the sixth chapter of the Siegfried Arc. Read at your own risk and I do not own Pokémon.


In the forest

The big tree that consisted of a grotto that was once home to many Pokémon that were watched over by a Snorlax was now on the ground as it collapsed thanks to the grenades Siegfried set off. There were fires among the area of where Siegfried was, but thanks to the massive rain, those fires were quickly getting extinguished. Last thing anyone needed right now was a wildfire.

Kadabra, Seel, Greninja, and Delphox appeared in an area near the tree. Thankfully they were not in the path of falling tree. Who knows if anyone got crushed by that tree? Siegfried probably hoped for many Pokémon to be in harm's way of that tree as it would pleasure him.

Speaking of Siegfried, he was nowhere to be seen. He drove off in his jeep after he threw the grenade into the grotto. Who knows where he could be right now, and how many Pokémon could be in danger?

"That was a close one," Kadabra sighed in relief.

Kadabra's mind was filled with utter chaos though. Despite getting the two Kalos Pokémon and Seel out of there, he has already been filled with trauma, especially since Snorlax was killed.

Greninja and Delphox on the other hand were disgusted. That coward chose to attempt to blow them up rather than face them like a man.

"I can't believe that bastard got away," Greninja uttered.

Delphox was out glaring into the distance. She didn't see him but was likely looking in the direction that he could've gone.

"After what he did to Ash and Serena, he doesn't deserve to breathe oxygen," Delphox uttered in a dark tone.

Seel looked at Greninja and Delphox. He heard Greninja mention the names Ash and Serena. He wondered how these two Pokémon knew those names that Frogadier and Braixen mentioned. Well somebody was going to have to put the pieces together for him to let him know that they evolved.

Then the four Pokémon saw something in the rainy skies. There were two spots in the sky coming in closer towards the tree. There was a Pidgeot and a Garchomp and two people were on each of those Pokémon.

Kadabra had no idea who those people were, but Seel recognized one of those faces. That was the ranger who was going after Munchlax and a woman by her side. As for Greninja and Delphox, they looked up in curiosity. They didn't know those two humans on the Pidgeot, but they definitely knew the two humans on the Garchomp. That Garchomp did look familiar to the two Kalos Pokémon.

Pidgeot and Garchomp saw the tree and began to descend down. They would notice the four Pokémon huddled around the tree once they got closer. Claude had a dark look on his face as he knew something happened.

"We might be too late," Claude uttered as he then saw four Pokémon, "There's only four Pokémon around."

"Do you that Munchlax is with them?" Sherri asked.

As they got closer, all of the Pokémon stood there awaiting the humans. Claude could now get the details as he can see a Kadabra, a Seel, and two other Pokémon he didn't recognize. Sycamore and Sophie recognized those two Kalos Pokémon as they already knew of their evolutions, and the fact that there could only be two trainers in Kanto who could have such Pokémon. They could only feel astonished knowing that if that was Frogadier and Braixen, they must've evolved somewhere.

"I see a Kadabra, and a Seel," Claude confirmed, "I see two other Pokémon, but I don't know who they are. None of them though are Munchlax."

"You're in luck, me and Augustine do know those two Pokémon species," Sophie told them as she started smiling, "And I have a feeling we also know these Pokémon specifically."

"And to make matters even better, it looks like they just evolved," Sycamore stated.

Pidgeot and Garchomp landed on the ground with all four adults hopping off. They approached the four Pokémon with Sycamore and Sophie approaching Greninja and Delphox. Sycamore and Sophie approached them, and they could see the hostility in their eyes.

"Are you two alright?" Sycamore asked while looking worried.

When Greninja and Delphox saw the professor and his wife, they started to calm down. They can remember that they were the ones that took care of them in Sycamore's lab back in Kalos. They just felt so troubled throughout the years that they rarely ever opened up to them, but they still loved them. He was even the one who suggested that they go with Ash and Serena.

Now that Ash and Serena were gone, they were the only ones left they could turn too. They had nowhere to go now. The two Pokémon started to cry.

"They've must've taken the experience pretty hard," Sophie stated.

"I would figure, Siegfried is truly evil," Sycamore sighed, "At least you two are alright."

Greninja began to give Sycamore a hug while Delphox proceeded to do the same with Sophie. Both of them were surprised. This was the first time they've opened up to them since…maybe ever.

Meanwhile Claude and Sherri went over to Kadabra and Seel. Claude may remember this Seel with his red cap since he was the one who was acquainted with Munchlax. Kadabra on the other hand he doesn't know.

"Are you alright? What happened to all the Pokémon?" Claude questioned.

Kadabra had a grim look on his face while Seel had tears in his eyes. Claude's heart broke when he saw the state Seel was in. All of those Pokémon dead.

"Are you telling me that all the Pokémon are dead!?" Claude asked in panic.

"Seel," Seel mumbled.

"Including a Munchlax?" Claude asked with more worry.

Seel shook his head no indicating that no Munchlax were hurt in this tragedy. In fact, Claude isn't aware that his father ordered him and the younger Pokémon to flee. If Snorlax were still alive, Seel would indicate Claude to thank him for making him escape.

Everything came to a halt when they heard something. It sounded like a jeep and once they looked at the direction where the sound came from, there were headlights coming their way. Claude took a look to see that the jeep that was coming their way was a familiar one. It was one of the ranger's jeeps.

Claude was wondering who was driving the jeep and who was in there. He was hoping for it to not be Shepard, but then once the jeep came close, it came to a complete stop. Claude looked through the windows and saw no one other than Pedansky. Inside the jeep was a Pikachu and a floating Pokedex.

"Pedansky," Claude called out.

Pedansky got out of his jeep as soon as he recognized his old work friend and his wife. He ran up to them.

"I'm so glad you made, and thank Arceus you're alright," Pedansky told the two, "This storm is pretty bad, and having a person like Siegfried around makes it worse."

"No wonder," Sherri replied.

"So, what happened here?" Pedansky questioned.

Claude and Sherri had grim looks on their faces. Judging by their looks, Pedansky knew that this was bad. He didn't want to believe it, but all of those Pokémon were dead. He looked at the Seel and Kadabra by their sides.

"Don't tell me," Pedansky grimaced.

"These are the only Pokémon left from the grotto that are still alive," Claude stuttered, "There's two others that are with Professor Sycamore and Sophie."

What Pedansky feared was true. All of those Pokémon were killed by Siegfried. If only they were here sooner then maybe they would've made a difference. There was one thing going through their minds.

"How did he find this place?" Claude asked.

"I don't know, I just found this out after meeting with some Pokémon who just fled from here," Pedansky answered.

Claude gasped when he heard that. So, while all of the Pokémon were killed in the grotto, some of them got away. Seel did indicate that Munchlax was not present at the time so he must've gotten away.

"So Munchlax is okay," Claude indicated.

"He is, we were told his father wanted the children Pokémon to evacuate while the adult Pokémon tried to fight," Pedansky answered.

"How did you figure that out?" Sherri asked.

Rotom Dex floated out of the jeep and joined Pedansky. Claude and Sherri were a bit intrigued to see a floating Pokedex.

"That would be thanks to me. As a Pokedex who not only serves Ash Ketchum and Serena Gabena in their quest around the world by recording data on Pokémon, but I can translate what Pokémon say so that humans can have an idea on what they're saying," Rotom Dex explained.

Claude and Sherri didn't have any idea who this Ash Ketchum or Serena Gabena were, but they had to be amazed they were traveling around the world with a great asset in Rotom Dex.

"That has to be pretty unique," Claude stated.

Sycamore, Sophie, Greninja, and Delphox noticed the floating Pokedex next to Pedansky. Sycamore remembers Rotom Dex when speaking to Ash and Serena on the phone, but Greninja and Delphox have a better memory of it.

"Is that…Rotom Dex?" Sycamore asked.

"Greninja," Greninja confirmed.

After the conformation, the two humans and two Pokémon joined the others. Rotom Dex noticed Professor Sycamore as it saw him on the video phone.

"You must be Augustine Sycamore," Rotom Dex said.

"Sorry, but the introductions will have to wait," Sycamore apolitically said, "Where are Ash and Serena?"

This was a tough question for Rotom Dex to answer, but right there was bigger things to worry about.

"We'll get to that later," Rotom Dex confirmed, "Right now we want to know what happened."

"Pika," Pikachu confirmed.

Delphox coughed in front of everyone to grab everyone's attention. All of the Pokémon and humans had their eyes on the Fox Pokémon. Kadabra just seems to be shaken by the experience, but Delphox has dealt with this before.

Little did they know, Ponyta arrived at the tree with Munchlax, Elekid, Magby, and Smoochum. All of them stopped in horror when they saw the scene that laid in front of them. The big tree toppled over and among the Pokémon, only Kadabra, Seel and the two Kalos Pokémon remained. Delphox was about to speak to the humans about what happened.

3 minutes later

Delphox spoke of the events that have taken place. Rotom Dex took translated so everyone else could understand what she is saying. While they were thankful that the Pokémon prepared for this potential disaster, the damage was still done, physical and emotional.

"Those poor Pokémon," Pedansky muttered.

Delphox wasn't going to speak yet of Ash and Serena. She wasn't sure how she would break the news. No one was sure how they were going to bring it to the professor and his wife.

All of the Pokémon were watching and listening, and it just broke their hearts. Munchlax, Elekid, Magby, Smoochum, and Ponyta slowly approached the group with tears in their eyes. Seel heard the tears and turned around only to see Munchlax holding a rainbow feather in his hand.

Greninja and Delphox noticed that feather as Ash and Serena obtained it on the first day of their journey.

"Munchlax," Seel questioned.

Everybody gathered around the Pokémon. Pedansky was surprised to see them there when they were supposed to stick with Lance. The looks on their face were not pleasant when they heard the news.

"Is it true that our parents are dead?" Smoochum asked.

"I'm afraid so, we're the only four Pokémon who survived," Seel answered.

Munchlax didn't want to believe it, but Seel wasn't lying. There wasn't another Pokémon to be found except them. There was no way his dad could lose. He was his hero. He can't perish, not like this.

"Seel," Munchlax cried.

"Munchlax, I'm so sorry. He tried everything…and he failed," Seel uttered.

Seel decided to open his flippers and let Munchlax come in for a hug. Sure, these two were best friends, but this was the first time they've ever shared a hug.

Elekid, Magby, and Smoochum all huddled together and hugged while Ponyta nuzzled her head with the others with tears coming from her eyes too. It was very painful for all of these Pokémon to lose their parents.

"It turns out from what I'm hearing, all of these Pokémon have lost their parents to Siegfried," Rotom Dex told everyone.

All five adults grimaced when they heard that. Siegfried truly was a hunter who showed no mercy. Now the question remains, what are all these Pokémon going to do next? Delphox was looking at the crying Pokémon who were huddled up. While she was just an egg, she did somewhat feel that experience of what they all went through. Greninja on the other hand still felt some agitation.

"Those poor Pokémon," Sophie replied.

Rotom Dex heard what Munchlax was saying to Seel that he came back worried about his dad and him. Rotom Dex spoke once more.

"All of these Pokémon followed this ranger because they were worried about their parents," Rotom Dex stated, "Now that the worst has happened, they don't know what to do next."

Delphox was looking at Greninja who seemed to be regaining his vengeance from before, but she also looked at the Pokémon who were emotionally broken. All of the young Pokémon were crying, Seel felt pity to himself, and Kadabra was now feeling completely broken and helpless.

"Delphox," Delphox called out to everyone.

All of the Pokémon and adults turned to Delphox. It appears something was going through her mind. Rotom Dex began to operate his translation function once more so that everyone could understand.

"Everything is starting to make sense to me. At first me and Greninja wanted to kill Siegfried for taking away our piece of mind and…something I won't bring up just yet. But now when I look at all of those dead Pokémon and all of those Pokémon heartbroken that they lost their parents, brothers, sisters, and friends. This makes me realize that me and Greninja dealt with this exact experience," Delphox explained.

Greninja broke out of his trance as he listened to Delphox. The fact that she has everyone's attention and she broke Greninja of his thirst for Siegfried's blood, she's understands everything.

"When me and Greninja first hatched, I remember that the chances of us being happy were greatly scarce. We turned down Sycamore's love and all of those humans trying to be our friend because we just could feel that…he was out there, and we just felt safe when we didn't interact with anything," Delphox announced.

As Rotom Dex translated that, Sycamore could understand what Delphox meant. It really was Siegfried.

"The only thing that kept us sane were each other because we dealt with him. The only time I can remember being happy was seeing Froakie's or Serena's face. Serena just gave that vibe that she was a sweet girl who love for Pokémon brought an impact on them and would grow up to be a strong woman. When I was reunited with her, I felt a tinge of happiness and a new beginning," Delphox explained.

Greninja had a feeling maybe that could've been Ash who brought that impact on her. Delphox was right on one thing, Serena has become strong throughout their travels. She even made an impact on recovering Ash's Pokémon from Damien after he took them, including Froakie.

"When I saw those Spearow were going to kill her and Ash, I knew that just being the Pokémon I once was wasn't going to save us. That's I realized I needed to get stronger not only to protect her, but I can stand up to him too! That's why I want to take out Siegfried, not because he messed up mine and Greninja's life anymore, but so none of these Pokémon have to live with what we went through, and we can prevent other Pokémon from having that happen to them!" Delphox announced.

All five adults and all of the Pokémon heard Delphox out and felt proud of her. She didn't want any more Pokémon to fall victim to Siegfried. No one was more touched with what Delphox said than Greninja as she did make a point.

After they left Saffron City, he can now recall that he couldn't budge for Ash back when they faced Team Rocket at the Kanto Power Plant, and that was now because he could feel Siegfried coming close.

Siegfried ruined him from the day he hatched to now. Now he looks at the Pokémon and he can now see something. He was looking at the exact same pain Siegfried put him through. Delphox was right, no Pokémon should suffer from Siegfried's wrath anymore. Instead of going out for revenge for killing Ash and Serena, they were going to make Ash and Serena proud by taking Siegfried down.

"I've been sorry for letting you down in the past Ash, but this something I won't forgive myself for. If I didn't let my fears take over, you would still be alive," Greninja thought to himself, "I won't make that mistake to the rest of those Pokémon."

All of the negative emotions Greninja had were now replaced with determination just like Delphox. All of the Pokémon and adults heard Delphox out. It was time to stop Siegfried now rather than later.

"She may be a Pokémon, but she made a great point," Claude said, "That's why I took the ranger job in the first place. To protect the lives and well-being of all Pokémon. Let's take that son of a bitch out!"

"But first, we need to know where Siegfried has gone," Pedansky stated.

Munchlax broke out of his hug and looked at the feather once more. Greninja and Delphox saw that feather and remembered what it was. The Rainbow Wing.

The Rainbow Wing was actually pointing to the south. Why was guiding them to the south of this area?

Everybody looked down at the ground and noticed the tire tracks from Siegfried's jeep were going into that direction. If everybody could make heads and tails of the situation, that was the direction towards Fuchsia City. Maybe the Rainbow Wing was giving them a sign to go after Siegfried.

"Do you think Siegfried really has gone that way?" Claude asked.

"Well, there's only one way to find out," Pedansky responded, "Everybody into the jeep. We'll follow those tracks at high speed."

"Good idea," Sherri responded, "Pidgeot, do you think you can fly in the air in hopes of spotting Siegfried?"

"Pidgeotto," Pidgeot responded.

The Bird Pokémon knew that evil man too well. With that, everyone made their way into the jeep, except for Kadabra who just stared at the fallen tree. Sycamore figured he should return Garchomp for right now and only bring him out if needed.

"Munchlax I need you to," Claude said until Munchlax interrupted him.

"Munchlax!" Munchlax shouted.

Claude was a little surprised with Munchlax's attitude. If he can take a closer look, it seems this Pokémon's face is filled with nothing but determination.

"I think Munchlax wants to come with us," Sycamore said.

"Is that true Munchlax?" Claude asked.

"Munchlax," Munchlax confirmed.

"Elekid," Elekid confirmed.

"Magby," Magby confirmed.

"Smoochum," Smoochum confirmed.

"Neigh," Ponyta confirmed.

Claude could see that all of these Pokémon want to be part of the fight. They lost their parents they wanted to avenge them.

"Alright, you can come. Just be careful," Claude pleaded as he was about to enter the jeep.

Claude entered the jeep as Pedansky allowed him to have shotgun. Munchlax joined Claude in front as the rest of the Pokémon went in back, except for three Pokémon. Ponyta, Greninja, and Delphox.

"Sorry, you're all too big to fit in here," Pedansky instructed the Pokémon.

The three Pokémon could understand as the jeep already looked crowded as it is.

"We can't waste any more time, we have to get moving," Claude told Pedansky.

"Right," Pedansky responded.

As Pedansky made his way to the jeep, Ponyta turned to Greninja and Delphox. There was no way she wanted to be left behind.

"If you want, I can give you two a ride," Ponyta suggested.

Greninja can imagine himself on Ponyta. He would be at the head of the helm with Ponyta being his trusty steed charging into combat with Siegfried. And Delphox would be the lovely maiden who would accompany him. He really could show himself as a hero or the Pokémon of Delphox's dreams.

But Greninja may have dreamt for too long as Delphox got on Ponyta first. Figuring out they were both fire-types, Delphox figured it would be best for her to be at the helm if they were going to battle. Wait, there was no time for daydreaming. Greninja made his way onto Ponyta and sat right behind Delphox.

"Are you sure you can keep up with that jeep?" Greninja asked.

Ponyta looked to see all of her friends in the jeep. Though she couldn't see Munchlax, most likely because he was in front, she knew he was in there. She didn't want to lose sight of them as she wanted to be with them through this.

"I'll do my best," Ponyta confirmed.

Pedansky fired up the jeep and kicked it into high gear. Delphox acted as the jockey as she got Ponyta to start galloping. Greninja hung on tight.

"I better call the station to let them know what's going on," Pedansky said.

"Good idea, we may need all the help we can get," Claude said.

Pedansky picked up the radio to deliver an urgent message.

"This is ranger Pedansky reporting that Siegfried is heading south out of the territory. We need all available units on the move," Pedansky announced.

"This is ranger Shepard, what are you doing," Shepard questioned on the other end.

Claude remembers that voice very well and so does Munchlax. Seel can recall hearing that voice as well.

"Didn't you hear me, I may have found the whereabouts of Siegfried," Pedansky stated.

"No, you're disobeying orders! I clearly told you that all rangers must stay at the station until the rain clears. Also, you're guilty of scavenging an area that isn't yours!" Shepard argued on the other end.

"Shepard listen, I need help now! Lance is caring for Pokémon that have just fled the scene of where Siegfried was last spotted, and I need assistance," Pedansky told Shepard.

"Siegfried is leaving the premise he won't be bothering us anymore. Now report back to base immediately!" Shepard yelled on the other end.

Pedansky turned around to see Claude who had a worried look on his face. He also could see the faces of the people in back. Sherri always has supported her husband, and Sycamore and Sophie came to Kanto in hopes of helping with Pokémon who've dealt with Siegfried. Pedansky was not going to let them down.

"I can't, we can't lose him," Pedansky said.

"How dare you go against your boss like that," Shepard uttered darkly on the other end, "I want you back here right now. This stunt you're pulling is going to lead to some severe consequences."

Everybody was hearing the conversation and couldn't help but feel a shred of disgust. Did this man even realize what was going on. Pedansky was going out to be a hero along with others, and he was going to be punished. There was something wrong with their boss.

"Listen up, all units are ordered to remain here until the rain stops! Do not listen to what Pedansky said! I'm the head ranger and I make the calls!" Shepard yelled on the other end.

Pedansky shut his radio off. Pedansky turned around once more to look at all the adults and Pokémon in the jeep. They now knew what kind of person Shepard was.

"We're on our own everyone," Pedansky told everyone.

Claude smiled at what Pedansky just said. He didn't give in to Shepard. He's actually going to go for it. No one was going to be held back by Shepard.

Rotom Dex and Pikachu remember that voice as he was the one who just yanked them away without giving themselves a chance to look for Frogadier and Braixen. Then he just assumes they're dead. The truth is, Ash and Serena could still be alive right now if Shepard never took them away to the Pokémon Center and imprisoned them there, because they would've found their Pokémon sooner.

The entire group didn't care for what was on that radio. They were still determined to go after the evil hunter.


In the wilderness

Out of the forest and into the open, a jeep was speeding through the savanna in the heavy rain. Siegfried was driving at high speed as he fled from the big tree. Now here he was out to figure out where he was going to kill Pokémon next. Siegfried hoped to see some wild Pokémon along the way in hopes of blowing their heads off.

"Now for my destination, I might visit that Safari Zone," Siegfried snickered, "Yes, so many exotic Pokémon for me to kill."

Siegfried was thankful to be out of there after spending a whole day in that forest killing Pokémon. That Greninja and Delphox may have been some of the better adversary Siegfried had in hand to hand combat with a Pokémon. Too bad they were gone now along with the rest of the Pokémon.

Now he was aiming towards Fuchsia City in hopes of getting into the Safari Zone.

Then Siegfried looked into his rearview mirror and noticed that there was a Pidgeot flying towards his jeep. Not only that, but there was another jeep closing in..

"What the fuck!" Siegfried shouted.

Pedansky was driving fast as he could to keep within reach of Siegfried. Claude rolled down the window, pulled out a gun, and fired at the vehicle. Bullets were hitting the jeep, but it wasn't slowing down.

"Claude, try and aim for the tires," Pedansky ordered, "They'll get flattened and the jeep will go into a tailspin."

Claude nodded his head and started shooting at the tires. Siegfried kept moving out of the way so that the bullets wouldn't hit the tires. Claude grunted every time he shot. It was so hard to slow that jeep down when he was moving like that.

"I'm getting sick of you all," Siegfried uttered.

The evil hunter put the jeep on cruise control and reached into the backseat. He grabbed one of his rifles and stuck his head outside. Everyone gasped as he was glaring at them. He was prepared to attack.

"Hurry and roll the window down!" Rotom Dex cried, "Pikachu once the window is down use Thunderbolt!"

Sophie proceeded to roll the window down and Pikachu jumped to the open window. As Siegfried loaded up his rifle, he could see Pikachu in his sights.

Siegfried got his rifle ready and targeted right at Pikachu. He was going to kill the Pokémon first, and then Pedansky. However, Siegfried was too late as Pikachu launched a Thunderbolt right at Siegfried.

"GRRRRR!" Siegfried grunted as he was being shocked.

In an unfortunate turn of events for Siegfried, he ended up dropping the rifle due to the pain. Siegfried was getting furious for that Pikachu dropping his rifle. Now that he was vulnerable, they could send out another attack.

"Pidgeot, now's your chance to attack!" Claude called out.

Pidgeot raised her speed with Agility and dove in with a Quick Attack. Siegfried was quick to retreat from Pidgeot as the Bird Pokémon used her speed to get in front of the jeep.

Now Pidgeot was flapping her wings as hard as she could to create a Gust to try to slow the jeep down. While the force of the gusts did slow the jeep down a little bit, it was still overpowering through the winds and moving forward past Pidgeot.

Siegfried was able to obtain another gun from the backseat. It was more of a homing sniper and he was aiming for Pidgeot. That Pokémon was going to be the first to die, and then the others in the opposing jeep.

"Time to blow your head off!" Siegfried yelled.

Then at the last second, a fireball was flying towards Siegfried. The evil hunter screeched in pain as he lost another weapon.

"What the hell was that!" Pedansky exclaimed in shock.

Everyone in the jeep was just as shocked as Pedansky. Claude, Sherri, Sycamore, Sophie, and Seel turned around. Elekid, Magby, and Smoochum all smiled at who they were seeing out the window. Pikachu and Rotom Dex smiled as well as they saw where that fireball came from. Munchlax was having a difficult time looking out the window, but he hoped it was someone good.

The source of that fireball came from Delphox as she was riding Ponyta across the savanna with Greninja riding alongside. Despite the rain weakening the power of the fireball, it was enough to surprise Siegfried.

"Who the hell threw that at me!?" Siegfried angrily questioned.

Ponyta was galloping as fast as she could. She was catching up to Pedansky's jeep. All of the Pokémon in the jeep cheered Delphox on due to the fact their friend was carrying her.

Siegfried got a closer look and he felt pure horror and shock when he saw Delphox and Greninja. Though he doesn't recall seeing Ponyta in the tree, he wasn't expecting the two Kalos Pokémon to still be alive.

"I thought I killed you!" Siegfried yelled.

"Think again you son of a bitch!" Delphox shouted.

Ponyta was pushing herself hard as she could as Delphox launched a Flamethrower right at the back of his jeep. Despite the jeep being on cruise control, Siegfried stomped on the accelerator to speed up the vehicle. However, the intense weather weakened the flames as the jeep wasn't taking as much damage as it would've.

"Here's a little something for you," Siegfried yelled as he now got a machine gun, "Now go to hell!"

Siegfried would've tried to show her off with his own Flamethrower, but just like Delphox, the rain would've weakened it. Siegfried loaded up the machine gun and fired at Delphox and Ponyta.

"No!" Sycamore cried.

Siegfried pulled the trigger…but at the last second, Delphox created a barrier.

A magical glass square appeared around Delphox, Greninja, and Ponyta as the bullets were bouncing off rather than hitting them. Greninja was actually shocked at this as well as was everyone else. What did Delphox just do?

"What just happened? The bullets from Siegfried's machine gun are bouncing off of a moving glass shield," Sherri uttered.

Sycamore and Sophie smiled with relief at what Delphox was doing. Rotom Dex smiled as well as it knew along with the Kalos professor and his wife.

"I don't recall Serena ever teaching Delphox that move, but I know what it is," Rotom Dex said in excitement.

"What is it?" Sherri asked.

"I'll answer that question since I know about the Delphox line and everything they can do," Sycamore said to Rotom Dex, "That was Light Screen. It raises the defense on special moves for a while unless a Pokémon uses the move Brick Break."

"But I think the bullets are more of physical attacks rather than special," said Claude.

"Bullets are a whole different level since that is coming from a human tool rather than a Pokémon attack," Sycamore explained, "The bullets can't hit anyone behind that Light Screen as long as Delphox has it up. If Siegfried were to beat Delphox to the punch before she could use Light Screen, then he would've shot them all."

It was a bit complicated understanding the physics behind a person's gun and a Pokémon attack. As of right now though, Delphox was holding her own protecting the Pokémon.

"That Delphox sure is strong," Magby said.

"Yeah, but look," Seel said pointing something out.

Despite Delphox deflecting the guns, the ground was becoming a bit uneven with the bullets now lying around which was messing up Ponyta's footing, not to mention the wet ground.

Ponyta was now struggling to keep up with Siegfried's jeep. Delphox was able to keep the Light Screen up as the evil hunter kept firing away from his machine gun. He was getting angry that none of the bullets were hitting them because of that glass square.

Then to his horrible outcome, Siegfried ran out of ammo. He angrily watched the Pokémon from behind, and noticed they were a bit further behind than before.

"Well at least they're further back," Siegfried said to himself.

Delphox finally let down her Light Screen, but Ponyta was losing ground, not to mention she was starting to get a little tired.

"Well those Pokémon put up a good fight," Claude said.

"Now what do we do?" Sophie asked.

Everybody could see that Ponyta was still moving but getting slower. Pidgeot fell back behind the jeep after Siegfried's initial terms of shooting her.

"I could send Garchomp out," Sycamore said looking at Garchomp's Pokeball, "But what if Siegfried has a weapon to counter Garchomp?"

It was starting to get tough for everyone. The only they can do now is just keep up with Siegfried. Pedansky then looked at his jeep and noticed something. The gas gauge was starting to get low.

"Everyone I got bad news, we're running out of gas," Pedansky announced.

"What!" everyone exclaimed.

"Yeah, I can try to keep up for a couple more minutes, but soon this jeep is going to die out. When that happens, either Siegfried gets away or he comes in and kills all of us close range with no chance of escaping," Pedansky explained.

"We can hop on Pidgeot and Garchomp to flee," Claude suggested.

"That might be a problem if Siegfried comes for us. He still has a load of weapons that he could use to kill us, including his own jeep," Pedansky explained.

Everybody was now starting to run out of options. This son of a bitch was on the verge of getting away with everything he just did. All of them would either live or die, more likely die since there were Pokémon in the jeep.

Meanwhile, Ponyta continued to gallop as fast as she could. While the ground became stable again, the damage was done as they lost a lot of ground to Siegfried and now possibly the rest of the group.

"I can't keep up with them," Ponyta cried.

"You have to!" Delphox cried.

"Those vehicles are too fast! Do you realize how much time and energy I put in just to try and keep up with them," Ponyta muttered.

"The odds might be against us, but that doesn't mean we quit! Serena told all of us never give up until the end, and we haven't reached the end yet!" Delphox shouted.

Ponyta continued to gallop as Delphox continued to speak.

"If he gets away, he will get away with killing your mother! He will get away with killing all of your friends parents! Most importantly, he will go out and kill more Pokémon as he pleases! I know your mother wishes for your safety, but I can figure like all other moms, she wishes for you to be strong! I push myself every day to be strong for Serena, just like Greninja has done with Ash!" Delphox spoke.

Ponyta was not feeling tired anymore, in fact Delphox's words may be making her stronger and giving her more energy.

"Your mom might be in a better place, but in order for her to be truly happy, she wants to know that the person who took her life away and took away the chance to watch you grow up is truly punished! She will be at peace knowing he's gone and that you can live a full life in peace!" Delphox spoke.

The next thing Ponyta was feeling was a new sense of energy. This energy wasn't a sense of physical activity, it was the sense of wanting to avenge her mom and making her happy.

"MAKE YOUR MOTHER PROUD!" Delphox screamed in the heavens.

"You're right, I will make my mother proud!" Ponyta cried.

As soon as Ponyta found her new-found energy, something happened to her. As she was galloping, she started to glow white. All of the Pokémon who watched from behind were amazed to see what was going on.

"Ponyta!" all of the Pokémon cheered.

"She's evolving!" Seel exclaimed.

Then a Rapidash took her place and this Pokémon was now faster than ever. Delphox smiled and regained her focus. Greninja could've been happier for Delphox. Their trainers helped them give them strength, now here was Delphox giving this Pokémon strength.

"Holy crap, look everyone," Sherri said pointing to behind.

Everyone has now taken notice that Ponyta has evolved. The Fire Horse Pokémon was now catching up to the jeep on the verge of passing them.

"That Ponyta evolved into Rapidash," Sycamore said in amazement.

"I don't think we need to worry about keeping up, this Pokémon looks like is ready to pass us," Pedansky said in amazement.

Pikachu and Rotom Dex watched as Delphox and Greninja rode Rapidash at a high speed. At this rate they were going to strike Siegfried.

"Come on Delphox, come on Greninja!" Rotom Dex cheered.

"Pikachu!" Pikachu cheered.

Rapidash was now neck and neck with Pedansky's jeep. Siegfried on the other hand noticed the blaze coming past the jeep and getting closer to him. The sadistic hunter was agitated to see that the Delphox was catching up.

"How is this thing still on my tail!" Siegfried exclaimed.

He stamped on the accelerator to increase the speed of the jeep. It wasn't doing any good as Rapidash was now getting closer.

Delphox and Rapidash saw that he was about to throw a star at them, but they weren't going to allow it. Rapidash with lots of anger unleashed a Fire Spin while Delphox unleashed a monstrous Flamethrower. Siegfried threw the star, but when both of the attacks hit the jeep, it threw his aim off and it swerved to the right.

"NOOOOOOOOOOO!" Siegfried cried, "You made me miss!"

The Pokémon were pleased to see that a small fire was made on his jeep. This might be the chance they have to stop him.

"It looks like we got him," Claude smiled.

"Alright, now let's see if we can stop that jeep," Pedansky stated.

Pedansky was running low on gas, the fire on the outside of Siegfried's jeep was weakening, but the fire inside was still going. Siegfried was not going to abandoned his vehicle, not to mention he can handle fire.

"Do you think we can shoot his tires now?" Sherri questioned.

"I wouldn't chance it, he's not slowing down, not to mention I don't want to possibly have Rapidash's footing messed up," Claude answered.

"You know, if we did happen to shoot his tires out, he might actually get out and grab one of his weapons and kill us all," Sycamore stated.

"Delphox and Rapidash were able to slow him down, but I don't know about stopping him," Rotom Dex said.

All of the people and Pokémon inside Pedansky's jeep were completely nervous. All of the methods they have come up with were to only stop his jeep, but not him. There had to have been a solution.

Then Seel looked out the window and noticed the fire inside Siegfried's jeep. He also has notice how much Pedansky has been putting into his jeep. With time and gas running out, Seel was studying the possibilities. He looked at Munchlax with a concerned look on his face. Seel had an idea, but it wasn't going to be pretty.

"Seel, Seel!" Seel commented.

Everyone looked around to see Seel calling everyone out except Pedansky. Rotom Dex began the translating process so Seel can speak.

"I think I have a solution, but a price will be paid," Seel announced in the translation.

All of the Pokémon were looking on with complete concern and worry. Siegfried on the other hand was trying to find a weapon that hasn't been touched by the fire. He was able to grab his spike ball.

"Delphox and Rapidash can try to hit Siegfried with another attack which will be enough to distract him. Then you Claude can shoot one of his tires which will cause him to slow down and go out of control," Seel explained.

Everyone nodded, but then they noticed the dark look on Seel's face. No one was going to like what he was about to say.

"Seel?" Munchlax questioned in worry.

"Then all of you have to abandon the jeep and let me the wheel. I'll drive the jeep, have Delphox or Greninja pop open the hood and let Delphox create a flame on the engine," Seel explained.

Everyone gasped when they heard that. They were going to have to clear the jeep for Seel so it could be set on fire.

"Once that is taken care of, I'll ram into the rear of Siegfried's jeep…taking both of us down in an explosion," Seel said with a hint of honor.

Munchlax sat there horrified to hear that. He already lost his father, now he was going to lose his closest friend. Munchlax looked at Seel who had a brave look on his face. Seel failed to protect Snorlax, but now he was going to succeed in avenging him.

"Seel, no," Munchlax choked.

"We don't have time, we have to act now," Seel grimaced, "At least Siegfried will be gone."

Siegfried burst his head out of the jeep with the spike ball in his hand. He was swinging it around like a rally towel ready to smash the people and Pokémon behind him. They all heard the translation, and what Seel said was true. They had to act quickly.

"Let's go for it," Pedansky said, "Everybody unbuckle your seatbelts!"

As everyone prepared to flee the jeep getting their rain gear on, Rotom Dex floated towards Delphox and Greninja.

"Alright, I need you guys to hit Siegfried and then pop open the hood to our jeep," Rotom Dex told the Pokémon, "Once that's done, send a flame onto the engine. Trust us, we got a plan."

Greninja and Delphox agreed to the plan. As soon as everyone got their seatbelts unbuckled, they got close to the door and Rotom Dex floated away. He would've considered a Roto Lotto, but this more of a strategic move rather than a power move. Pedansky continued to drive with Seel now heading to the driver's seat.

Seel had tears coming to his eyes as he wasn't going to be able to say goodbye to Munchlax. As long as he was safe along with the rest of the Pokémon, then he would be happy. Seel gave the signal to everyone.

"Now!" Seel and Rotom Dex exclaimed.

Siegfried finished swinging his spike ball and proceeded to swing it forward, but Delphox beat him to the punch as she hit his arm with a Psybeam. Siegfried grimaced and dropped the spike ball.

Now that Siegfried was distracted, Claude fired at the right rear tire of Siegfried's jeep and it was a successful hit. The tire was flattened and the whole jeep was losing speed and control.

"No, no, no," Siegfried panicked.

Pedansky, Claude, Sherri, Sycamore, Sophie, Pikachu, Elekid, Magby, Smoochum, and Munchlax all jumped out of the jeep while Seel took the wheel. When Munchlax hit the ground, he watched in horror as Seel was ready to make his move.

"Seel," Munchlax cried.

Greninja threw a Water Shuriken at the hood of Pedansky's jeep and popped it open while Delphox sent out a Mystical Fire onto the engine. It wasn't a strong attack to completely blow the engine up, but enough to catch fire not to mention the rain helped a little bit.

"We have to get out of the way," Delphox ordered.

Rapidash galloped away from the two jeeps as they needed to get far away as possible. Everybody who fled the jeep was now making a run for it as they needed to get distance. Pidgeot flew in to join them.

Siegfried was cursing a storm as the jeep was going haywire. Seel on the other hand took the wheel and started to ram for the rear of Siegfried's jeep. Now that it was slowing down, he would have a good look at how he would strike.

Seel couldn't step on the accelerator since he was short, so he only had one shot. He was closing in on the rear of Siegfried's jeep and as he was getting closer, his life flashed before his eyes.

The day he hatched from his egg, the day he met his trainer, the day his trainer was killed in a shipwreck and he was orphaned, the day he met Snorlax, the day Munchlax hatched from his egg, the time he spent with Munchlax when confronting the rangers, all leading up to this point. Seel gave a silent prayer before the impact. He didn't get a chance to say goodbye to Munchlax. He then spoke his final words.

"Goodbye Munchlax, you really were a great friend. Live your life to the fullest," said Seel as he quoted his final words when the jeep finally rammed into Siegfried's.

.

.

BAM!

A massive explosion engulfed the area where the two jeeps were as they both exploded. Everybody shielded their eyes from the blinding light of the explosion. Munchlax on the hand saw his closest friend blow up in front of him.

"SEEEEEEELLLLLLLLLLL!" Munchlax cried.

The force of the explosion finally settled down as now there was a mushroom cloud. Seel made an honorable sacrifice to destroy the evil hunter as his wits may have not just saved their lives, but the lives of many Pokémon.

Greninja, Delphox, and Rapidash watched the explosion. Was he really gone? Did Seel succeed? Did the two Kalos Pokémon finally get their closure and avenge Ash and Serena?

"I think it's over," Greninja muttered.

"Let's head back to the others," Delphox suggested.

As Rapidash gave Greninja and Delphox a small ride back to the others, Munchlax was on his knees as he couldn't take his eyes off the mushroom cloud.

It was then a red cap came floating by and landed right in front of Munchlax. Munchlax looked at the red cap and knew who this belonged to. This was Seel's cap, the red cap he always wore when he was at the grotto. Now here it was in front of Munchlax as this was all that was left of the Sea Lion Pokémon.

"Seel," Munchlax choked.

Everyone looked at Munchlax as he was heartbroken. Pikachu and Rotom Dex can recall just being in that state recently after Ash and Serena were killed. Elekid, Magby, and Smoochum all gathered around Munchlax.

Munchlax picked up the red cap that belonged to Seel and stared at it. After a couple of seconds, the Big Eater Pokémon hugged the cap of his best friend tightly. Munchlax didn't just lose a great friend, he was now all alone. His father was gone, the Pokémon that he knew in the grotto were gone, and now Seel was gone.

"Munchlax, I'm so sorry," Elekid said patting Munchlax on the back.

"He's gone," Munchlax cried.

"I know he's gone, but he went out as a hero," Magby said.

"But Seel didn't realize what just happened," Munchlax uttered.

"What?" Smoochum questioned in worry.

"I'm all alone!" Munchlax cried as he hugged the cap tighter.

All three Pokémon looked at Munchlax who continued to cry. What he said was true as he lost his father and his closest friend. Greninja, Delphox, and Rapidash arrived with the others as they saw the state Munchlax was in.

"Munchlax must've taken it hard," Greninja uttered.

"He has, he lost everyone he cared about to that thing," Rapidash choked while looking at the now died down explosion which was now a huge fire.

Greninja and Delphox can take in what Rapidash said as they didn't completely know Munchlax, but Rapidash and the other kid Pokémon do. What they were seeing with Munchlax was the same emotional pain that they just went through. The only thing that they can agree on is that all of the Pokémon are now at peace.

The three Pokémon approached Munchlax as he continued to cry and saying that he was alone. Claude, Sherri, Pedansky, Sycamore, and Sophie backed away as they let the Pokémon gather around with Pikachu and Rotom Dex coming in with Ash's and Serena's Pokeballs. Pidgeot also flew towards the group of Pokémon, and Sherri was looking curious.

"Let them have their moment," Claude said, "They're Pokémon, but they're still living beings with feelings."

All of the adults nodded their heads as they watched the Pokémon. Delphox was the first one to approach the broken heart Munchlax. She knew the right words that needed to be said, just like what she said to Rapidash.

"Munchlax, you're not alone," Delphox told Munchlax.

"Yes, I am, my dad is gone, my friends are gone," Munchlax uttered with tears in his eyes.

"But the Pokémon around you can all relate to you, including me," Delphox said.

Delphox nodded her head to Pikachu and Rotom Dex as they released the Pokémon out of their balls. Pidgeotto, Charmeleon, Scyther, Primeape, Krabby, Kadabra, Wartortle, Slowpoke, Pinsir, and Eevee were all gathered in the rain with Munchlax.

Munchlax stood up and turned around looking at all of the Pokémon. Munchlax had no idea where those Pokémon came from, but all of them had sad looks on their faces as if they dealt with a tragedy. The same could be said for Elekid, Magby, Smoochum, and Rapidash along with Pidgeot

"We all lost someone who was close to us because of Siegfried!" Delphox announced.

It made total sense what Delphox said. Munchlax wasn't the only one to lose someone close to him because of Siegfried. Elekid, Magby, Smoochum, and Rapidash all lost their parents to the evil Pokémon murderer.

"She's right, we lost our parents to that monster," Rapidash cried.

Pikachu silently walked up towards Munchlax along with the rest of Ash's and Serena's Pokémon. Greninja was by their side as well.

"Not to mention…Siegfried killed our trainers…and our friends…our family," Pikachu cried.

Munchlax can recall that moment when they saw Ash's and Serena's dead bodies. Those two human were really known to be their families, and that evil hunter took them away from them.

"All of us are dealing with this tragedy together Munchlax," Delphox told Munchlax, "It shows you that you aren't alone."

Delphox's words had a lot of meeting. Just because his parents are gone, and all of his friends doesn't mean he's the only one who's dealt with this. Munchlax looked at all of the Pokémon and knew that they were dealing with the same grief as he was.

As he was holding Seel's hat, he took a look at the Rainbow Wing once more as it was glowing. Munchlax can recall what Lance just said about that Rainbow Wing saying that anyone who obtains one had an encounter with Ho-oh and was destined for great things.

Greninja and Delphox looked at the Rainbow Wing in the hand of Munchlax. They heard from a voice on the first day of their journey that the Rainbow Wing would give anyone who holds it eternal happiness. Now there was one thing on their minds, how did Munchlax obtain that item and why?

"I remember on the first day of our journey, a majestic bird came flying towards us and dropped this wing in front of us," Delphox said looking at the wing in Munchlax's hand, "Then a voice told us that this a Rainbow Wing and it would grant us eternal happiness."

"So, these friends of yours…had pure hearts?" Munchlax questioned.

"Yeah, they did. They cared about us, they hated criminals, what else do we need to tell you," Delphox said.

"Well, this man I ran into before I ran off said that the only way you could get this glowing feather is if some Pokémon called Ho-oh comes towards you and senses a pure heart within you," Munchlax explained as he looked at the Rainbow Wing, "He said that anyone who possess one of those is destined for great things."

The two Kalos Pokémon probably had a hint that the Pokémon the majestic bird that flew over them on the first day of their adventure was Ho-oh.

It didn't make sense to any of the Pokémon, if this wing was to grant anyone with a pure heart eternal happiness and give them a reminder that they're destined for great things, why would the world let this sadistic hunter kill their families and their friends and never have those dreams come true?

The Rainbow Wing was still glowing. Was there something else they needed to know? Maybe that there was something in line for them beyond the lives they have right now.

"But why would you be given that if only for your friends to be killed?" Munchlax questioned.

That was a good question. Why would Ho-oh give them the Rainbow Wing and Sacred Ash if only their lives were cut…..the Sacred Ash.

"I remember something," Delphox uttered.

"What is it Delphox," Greninja said with concern.

"We didn't just get a Rainbow Wing, we also got Sacred Ash," Delphox told Greninja.

Greninja could remember the pouches that were given to them along with the Rainbow Wing. That voice told them that Sacred Ash could revive the dead. Greninja was starting to think that if they were going to be given eternal happiness, that bird may have also foresaw their deaths and allowed them a second chance. Was that the case?

"Yeah, we did get Sacred Ash…which can revive the dead," Greninja muttered.

Greninja thought that if the legends of Sacred Ash was true, then maybe they could revive Ash and Serena. The Ninja Pokémon looks around and sees the heartbroken Munchlax along with the rest of the Pokémon. He can recall that these Pokémon all lost someone close to them due to Siegfried. He starts to wonder if they were acting selfish and not use it for the other Pokémon who were murdered.

"I wonder two things. Does it actually work, and should we use it on Ash and Serena?" Greninja asked himself.

Delphox could see Greninja in thought. She can understand that they don't want to be selfish and figure if using it on Ash and Serena would be the correct call, if it worked.

Delphox looked at the Pokémon and then looked at the flaming wreckage. It was dying down due to the non-stop rain. She can recall the lives Siegfried took away because of his antics of wanting to kill Pokémon. It would be impossible to use it on all the Pokémon who died in the past 24 hours.

Delphox walked over to the wreckage while she was still in thought. She watches the flames up close and could see images of herself and Serena. They were really warm and fun memories. The truth is she still wants to make more with her, but she wasn't sure how the other Pokémon would benefit, including Munchlax. Then again, she barely knew these Pokémon.

"Would it be the right decision?" Delphox questioned herself.

Delphox knew how selfless Serena was when it came to other Pokémon. Maybe she inherited that from Ash. Should she bring Serena back, or should she make Serena proud and bring back another life lost for someone who was hurt?

Then out of nowhere, two arms reached out from the fire and grasped Delphox's neck. The Fox Pokémon was caught in surprise as she didn't expect that.

"AHHH!" everyone screamed.

All of the adults and the Pokémon were completely alarmed by the arms that came out of the fire. No one was more panicked than Greninja.

"Delphox!" Greninja cried.

Delphox struggled to get air. She couldn't even concentrate into using an attack due to the lack of oxygen. She was now starting to lose consciousness from the strangling.

The fire was dying down as everyone was now getting a good look at who was strangling Delphox. Everybody's eyes widened in horror when they started recognizing the figure. Munchlax felt like his heart was shattered a third time when he saw the figure. Everybody huddled around Munchlax while Pikachu, Rotom Dex, and the rest of Ash's and Serena's Pokémon gathered around.

Greninja didn't take his eyes off Delphox or the figure doing this to her. His vision was now catching who it was. His eyes were now filled with hatred and anger as he saw the one doing this to her.

"Now I get to kill you by surprise!" the voice filled with lots of venom yelled.

There was no way. It was impossible! Greninja couldn't believe that he actually was still here. No one could believe it.

Siegfried survived the explosion and was now strangling Delphox.


All of you thought it was over after Seel's sacrifice, but somehow Siegfried survived and still is capable of killing Pokémon. The only silver lining right now is he doesn't have his weapons or transportation now, but he can still fight a Pokémon with his bare hands.

Greninja and Delphox now remember about the Sacred Ash when seeing the Rainbow Wing with Munchlax. They're questioning whether to use it to bring back Ash and Serena or someone else.

That'll be tackled later, right now Delphox is in trouble. Can she be saved, or will she be another victim to Siegfried.

Stayed tuned as the next chapter will mark the true conclusion to the battle. That's right everyone, the battle ends for real in the next chapter.

Remember to use proper hand hygiene to help prevent infections. Until then, see you next time!

Chapter 51: Greninja's Courage