I will admit my latest chapter was not my best work, but what's done is done. Not to mention there were two Mega Stones and an evolution involved. It's in the story and it might actually play a part in Blue's character arc.
I'll explain the situation with Pokémon Gyms. There are only supposed to be eight gyms and the Pokémon League looks for gym leaders that run unofficial Pokémon Gyms and make them potential candidates to raise their rank to official Pokémon League gym leaders if another gym leader has to step down and has no one to pass the gym onward too or they get fired. They keep the gyms at eight instead of expanding so that every trainer that competes in the Pokémon League is going in with the upmost honor.
If the gym becomes an official Pokémon League gym, then the league would then decide whether they can stay where they are or the other option they would go with more often, relocate them to the vacant gym. It sounds a little confusing, but that's how the assigning of Pokémon Gyms work in my fanfiction.
Now sit back as we have another big plot related chapter. If the title says anything, a certain Pokémon is about to make their appearance. This will foreshadow what will take place in a couple of chapters.
Enjoy and I don't own Pokémon.
Flashback-17 years ago
Lumisone City-Park
After enjoying their meal at Café Soleli, Jade and Grace made their way to a nearby park where Annie was training for the Kalos League. Having that talk with Grace did get Jade wondering what was up with her.
As they arrived in the park, they saw Annie finishing a training session with her Pokémon. She called back all of her Pokémon except for Herdier and looked over to see Jade out in the distance. Then something else caught her attention, there was another girl with her. Jade approached Annie with Grace behind her.
"Hey Jade," Annie said.
"Hey Annie," Jade replied.
Annie took a look at the girl with the brown hair and ponytail. Who was this girl and where did she come from?
"Who's that?" Annie asked.
"Oh yeah Annie, this is Grace. We just met at the Café Soleli while you were busy training," Jade answered introducing Grace.
"So you must be Annie," Grace responded as she approached Annie and reached her arm out, "Pleasure to meet you."
Annie looked at Grace's arm as she wanted to shake hands with her. Annie narrowed her eyes at the new girl. Where did she come from? What was she doing here? Why was she with Jade?
"Is something wrong?" Grace asked.
Annie took a deep breath and looked over at Jade. Jade was nervous enough at it was wanting to get more out of Annie, but not making great interactions with a girl who just lost her family isn't something anyone should do. Even though she doesn't know yet.
"Can I talk to you?" Annie asked Jade, "Privately."
"Okay," Jade uttered as she turned to Grace," Excuse us."
Grace pulled her arm back as she and Annie and Jade walked away from Grace leaving her alone. Herdier also stood behind with Grace. The teenage girl was looking at the Herdier who was wagging his tail. Grace can assume that this Herdier was one of Annie's companions.
"Well aren't you cute," Grace commented.
The Loyal Dog Pokémon gave a friendly bark to Grace as she smiled. This was a cute Pokémon. She didn't even know how tough it was with the help of Annie's training.
"What are you doing?" Annie questioned.
Annie stood there with a glare towards Jade. Was Jade doing something wrong by having Grace being with her?
"Making a friend," Jade answered.
"No, why are you hanging with someone else besides me?" Annie questioned.
"First off, you wanted me to give you some space so you can train for the league, second she was alone, and I figured she could use some company, and third I can hang out with anyone I want," Jade answered.
Annie stood there with her arms crossed glaring at her. She was starting to have thoughts of what happened back at home.
"Do you even know her?" Annie questioned.
"No, we just met," Jade answered.
"And now you're going to just hang with her rather than me," Annie retorted.
"Annie, you're overreacting. I've just met this girl less than a few hours ago and you're thinking that I'm going to throw you to the side," Jade stated, "We're all allowed to have more than one friend."
There Annie was acting like the over spoiled brat she was back at home. She is about to throw a tantrum over Jade putting her second to this girl just like how Delia put that baby ahead of her.
"So what, I'm supposed to be second fiddle to this girl you just met?" Annie questioned with a sneer.
"No…well maybe," Jade sighed.
Annie's face started to grow red with a hint of anger. Jade spoke in her defense.
"Look, I know I just met her, but she blurted out more about her life than you have. I've only known where you've lived, but she actually mentioned that she had family issues. You've never mentioned anything involving your family," Jade explained.
There she goes again bringing up her family. Annie never talked about her family because she doesn't consider them family. No family would put a baby ahead of her.
"Look, why don't you and Grace hang out and get to know each other," Jade suggested, "I'd figured that maybe I should have her hang with us, so she isn't alone. If you give it time and open up, maybe you two might connect with each other."
Jade knew this was extreme for a girl she just met, but Annie needs to stop being self-centered. Jade was okay with traveling with her, but Annie needed to expand her friend circle and not have it consist of just her. She could use some friends.
"Fine," Annie muttered.
Annie was feeling disgusted. She wanted to just have her traveling sister moment with Jade, and now Jade brought someone else with her. To stay on her good side, Annie would just have to deal with Grace being around them.
This wasn't going to be pleasant.
End of Flashback
Shoreline
The crystal blue waters and clear skies.
As the sea stretched out for miles, there would be little land out there. There were two known landmarks of Kanto out in those waters, Seafoam Island, and Cinnibar Island. For Ash and Serena, Cinnibar Island was their next destination.
It has been a week since they departed from Dark City and resolved the situation in the city. They even met Gary's father Blue but didn't have enough time to hang out. After all, the champion was a busy man. Ash would've wanted to ask questions about Red, but he didn't have time.
Now all they had to do was walk across the shoreline until they reached a port so they can take a ferry to Cinnibar Island. Ash hopes to earn his seventh badge while Serena hopes to get her final ribbons.
They've gotten more training in along the way, especially with Ash's new Scizor. Ash was happy now that he had a Pokémon of his own he could mega evolve. Rotom Dex looked at the qualities and moves of Scizor and tried them out. It also learned that while Scizor has the Swarm ability, it changes to Technician when he mega evolves along with a massive boost in defense.
Serena also took the time to learn about Pinsir's mega evolution with Rotom Dex's help. Serena learned that while her Pinsir had the Mold Breaker ability, when he mega evolves, the ability becomes Aerilate where normal type moves become flying type moves, and Pinsir would become a bug and flying type Pokémon. Pinsir's abilities were also get a boost with extra power in his attacks.
They would need to strategize on when they can use their Mega Evolutions because once the Keystones are used, they can't be used again for another four hours. Ash and Serena didn't plan on using their bug-type Pokémon in their upcoming battles. Not to mention that they've learned that the Cinnibar Island gym leader specializes in fire type Pokémon so having Scizor take part in that battle is a terrible idea. Not to mention Scizor also became a steel type which makes matters worse. Ash will consider having Scizor as a candidate for his final gym battle in Viridian City if the gym leader ever shows up.
Serena hasn't decided yet on who her contest Pokémon were going to be. Eevee has been asking Serena a lot to give her some affection and training, and she may consist of having her compete in this contest. Also since this was her attempt at her fifth and final ribbon, she would not rule out Delphox. Even though Delphox just won Serena her fourth ribbon. Serena would make her decision once they got settled in Cinnibar Island.
They finally stopped and looked out into the ocean. It was a beautiful sight to see. Ash and Serena could feel the wind blow through their hair, Pikachu's cheeks nuzzled that the wind gusts tickled him a little bit, and Munchlax took it in to feel out that wind. It was a beautiful day indeed.
Rotom Dex was looking out in the ocean. The floating Pokedex had a map feature, and according to the map of Kanto that was uploaded, Seafoam Island was just a straight shot across the water with Cinnibar Island twenty miles to the west. Rotom Dex knew that Ash and Serena each had a Pokémon that can transport them across the water. Also, Pikachu and Munchlax were at a good enough size to ride the Pokémon. Heck, Pikachu could ride on Ash's or Serena's shoulder.
"Hey guys, I have an idea!" Rotom Dex called out.
Ash and Serena looked over at Rotom Dex. The floating Pokedex was smiling at the two trainers. Pikachu and Munchlax turned and looked onward with curiosity.
"What's your idea Rotom Dex?" Ash asked.
"I was thinking, Ash you have a Lapras, and Serena you have a Gyarados," Rotom Dex stated, "And we need to cross the sea to reach our next destination."
"Okay, so what are you trying to say?" Serena asked.
"Lapras and Gyarados are water type Pokémon that are big enough to ride across the waters, and according to the map, Seafoam Island is just twenty-five miles straight across from here," Rotom Dex explained, "I was thinking instead of hiking all the way to a port, why don't you just bring your Pokémon out and ride across the water."
Rotom Dex did make a good point. The closest port that could take them to Cinnibar Island was all the way back in Fuchsia City. They were just in that city until Team Rocket kidnapped them. Rotom Dex even mentioned that Lapras and Gyarados could actually carry them across the water.
They can remember their experience riding on Gyarados after escaping the wreckage of the S.S. Anne and bringing them to shore. If they can recall, Magikarp evolved into Gyarados to save them and the trio. Not to mention they even had another Pokémon that can cascade them across the water, Lapras.
They can just imagine riding across the crystal-clear waters with the wind breeze gently blowing in the air. Also seeing what kind of water-type Pokémon would they see while riding across. The beauty of the open sea sounds so breathtaking.
"You know something Rotom Dex, that's actually a great idea," Ash praised.
"You think so," Rotom Dex happily replied.
"You bet, I think a nice ride across the water with our Pokémon would be a great experience for us," Ash answered.
"And we don't have to wait to be on a potentially crowded ship and paying for ferry tickets," Serena said.
"Plus the fact that we have two Pokémon that can transport us across the water means we can each ride separately on one Pokémon or we can ride on one together and alternate just in case the other one gets tired," Ash explained.
"And I can serve as your map, so you don't get lost!" Rotom Dex cheered.
Ash knelt down and looked at Munchlax. Munchlax turned his head and looked back at Ash.
"Hey Munchlax, we get to go on a boat ride," Ash said, "Well more of a Pokémon ride."
"Munchlax," Munchlax chirped.
Ash and Serena each pulled out their respective Pokeballs and released their Pokémon into the water. Gyarados was giving a friendly growl while Lapras gave out a happy cry.
"Alright you guys listen up, we're going to Cinnibar Island and we were wondering if you could carry us across the water," Ash told the Pokémon.
Gyarados looked out into the ocean as she was ready to carry Serena, but Lapras on the other hand felt uncertain. As she looked out into the ocean, she was feeling like a shard of glass punctured through her gut. The last time she was out in the ocean, her family was killed by pirates and she was rescued by Lorelei and Hector only to be taken to the Silph Company to suffer even more torture.
Lapras was trembling as those horrible memories came back to her. Not to mention that it all took place near the desired location that Ash was heading towards. If not for those two Butterfrees, she wouldn't even be alive right now.
"Are you alright Lapras?" Ash asked.
"Laa," Lapras sighed.
Lapras turned her head and looked down giving a loud sigh. Ash was looking at Lapras and could tell she was scared. Hector did share the story that Lapras's family was killed by pirates. Ash should know this was going to be tough for her going back out in the ocean.
"Listen Lapras if you don't want to go out in the ocean that's fine. I can ride with Serena on Gyarados. May be a bumpy ride, but you can take your time trying to get over what happened out there," Ash told Lapras.
Lapras heard what Ash said. He wasn't going to make Lapras go out into the water just like that. He was going to give her time. Ash did want to make sure Lapras was ready to overcome the events of what happened to her family. He helped Greninja do that, he's working on that with Munchlax, and he wants to help her too.
"Listen Lapras, those horrible people who killed your family are gone now. Plus, if anything happens, me and Serena be here to protect you. You've grown up so fast since coming with me, you even helped me win a gym battle," Ash praised as he had a serious expression now, "But if you truly wish to be strong, you will have to face your fears of the ocean and get past what happened."
Ash was right on one thing, if Lapras was ever going to become stronger, she will need to get out into the ocean. After all, it's in her nature to be out in the open waters. If she never goes out to the sea, she would be wasting her time, abilities, and most importantly her life.
Lapras turned to Ash and gave him a nod. She already has come this far. She was ready to ride the waves again.
"You're really going to do this?" Ash questioned.
"Laa," Lapras cooed indicating that she would ride through the waters once more.
"That's great Lapras. I wasn't expecting you to face your fears like that," Ash said.
Lapras knew that Ash was a strong trainer after what his Pokémon has done at the Silph Company. The least she could do for him is show him some love and courage. Not to mention she was born to ride through the waters.
Serena looked onward and smiled at Ash and Lapras. It was amazing to see how far Lapras has come after going through such torture. They both had a thing for being strong for their Pokémon.
Serena got on Gyarados with Pikachu hopping on while Ash got on Lapras with Munchlax jumping on Lapras's shell. It could be easy for Pikachu as he could just rest on Serena's shoulder or be in her backpack due to Gyarados's rough scales while Munchlax was too big to fit in a backpack. Lapras had a smooth shell which could benefit for Munchlax to relax on.
"We're so proud of you Lapras," Serena happily said.
"Laa," Lapras responded as she turned her head back at Ash and Munchlax.
"Doing great Munchlax," Ash replied.
"Munch," Munchlax responded as he laid down and stretched his arms out.
"Alright everyone, we're heading for Seafoam Island!" Ash declared.
"Seafoam Island?" Serena questioned.
"If we want to reach Cinnibar Island safely without getting lost at sea, we must travel to Seafoam Island as a landmark to help us reach Cinnibar Island," Rotom Dex explained, "Plus we can rest there and explore the island."
It did sound like a great idea. There was a cave on Seafoam Island that housed many different water-type Pokémon. Also, rumor has it that the legendary Pokémon Articuno slumbers within the island. Experts have not proven if that was true, but they consider it a theory as most researchers have spotted the Pokémon residing around the island.
"Sounds like a plan," Ash said giving a thumbs up.
"I would love to see what kind of Pokémon Seafoam Island has," Serena said with a smile.
"Well what are we waiting for, let's get going!" Ash declared, "Lapras, let's go!"
"You too Gyarados, but don't go too fast," Serena told Gyarados.
Both Pokémon give their trainers the nod and prepare to set off. Lapras and Gyarados were now riding the waters with Ash and Serena on board. Serena held on to Gyarados while Ash didn't need to hold on to any part of Lapras. Gyarados did keep his speed down so she goes at the same pace as Lapras. This was going to be a relaxing ride.
Seafoam Island
They have been riding their Pokémon for over an hour and a half. The scene of the ocean was just breathtaking. They saw many different Pokémon swim around like Tentacool, Staryu, Seel, and some Seaking.
Rotom Dex floated near Serena and did a great job hovering alongside Gyarados at her pace. Pikachu was riding on Serena's shoulder feeling uncomfortable. Thank Arceus Gyarados wasn't going too fast, otherwise Pikachu would puke. Munchlax dazed up in the clouds imagining what the clouds would shape into.
Munchlax for a moment thought he was a cloud that looked like his dad. Was it true his father was watching up from above? Munchlax could only wonder.
This did remind them of when they returned to land after escaping the S.S. Anne, but this time they were enjoying the scenery rather than saving their skins. Then in their sights was a small island. As Ash could make eyesight, it looked like there was some big rock on that island. Could that be Seafoam Island?
"Hey Rotom Dex, could you zoom in on that landmark. I think that may be Seafoam Island," Ash suggested.
"Why certainly young Ash," Rotom Dex replied with a bow.
Rotom Dex used its camera feature to zoom in on the land up ahead. It floated back to Ash to show a picture of a brown rock with what appears to be an entrance to a cave.
"Let me check the map," Rotom Dex said as it activated the map feature to pinpoint their destination, "Just as I expected, that island with the cave is none other than Seafoam Island."
"Cool, we can spend some time exploring the island, and then head out west towards Cinnibar Island," said Ash as he turned to Serena, "Are you alright with that Serena?"
"Of course I am," Serena chirped.
"Alright then, Lapras prepare for landfall!" Ash announced.
"You too Gyarados!" Serena commanded.
Both of the Pokémon approached the site. A few minutes after seeing the island, they made landfall. Ash and Serena hopped off their Pokémon and pulled out their respective Pokeballs.
"Alright Lapras, return! You deserve a good rest," Ash told Lapras as he returned Lapras.
"You too Gyarados, and thanks again," Serena told Gyarados as she returned Gyarados.
The group looked at the cave entrance. They figured that while they were here, they could explore the cave on this island. After all there was no time limit where they had to wait for a ferry since they had water-type Pokémon they could ride on. Not to mention they could give them some rest.
Then all of a sudden, they felt what appeared to be a small cold breeze coming from within the cave. It wasn't extremely cold, but more of a cool breeze. Ash and Serena crossed their arms and braced that cool breeze.
Pikachu and Munchlax did the same, but they felt more of a high authority from that breeze rather than coolness. The two Pokémon starred into the cave with what appeared to be memorized looks on their faces.
"Wonder where that sudden chill came from," Serena wondered.
"Well, despite having plenty of water-type Pokémon, there are also a few ice Pokémon in the cave as well," Ash stated, "After all, I heard that Lorelei of the Kanto Elite Four considers this cave a hot spot for her training."
"Not to mention that rumors have it Articuno could be slumbering here," Rotom Dex said as Ash and Serena looked at the floating Pokedex, "What, I've been reading some articles at the Pokémon Center."
Ash and Serena's faces became sullen. They can recall what Zapdos told them back at the power plant that whenever they meet one of the legendary birds, it would be considered a premonition that they will soon engage in a battle with a major dark force.
Could it be true that Articuno was in this cave and that they could meet the legendary bird. What's more, if Lorelei trained here, did she ever meet Articuno?
"Well, why don't we check the cave out. Maybe the rumors could be true that Articuno could be in this cave," Ash suggested.
"That could work, and if not, then at least we got to do some exploring," Serena said.
"I kind of hope the rumors are true so I can get Articuno's data," Rotom Dex said twiddling its stubby arms.
"What do you guys think?" Ash asked as he looked at Pikachu and Munchlax, "Um, guys?"
Pikachu and Munchlax were still in that state. They felt as if something was in there. Ash called them out again and they came back to their senses. Pikachu cooed saying it would be a good idea while Munchlax did the same. However, they just couldn't escape the fact something was in there.
"Well then, let's go," Ash declared as they marched into the cave.
Seafoam Island-?'s Den
Somewhere down deep in the caves of Seafoam Island, a group of Pokémon gathered around a huge bird like figure in the shadows. All of these Pokémon consider this figure to be someone they should show their respect too.
This figure has only seen a few humans, and the figure was thankful that they were humans it could trust. There were names for some of those humans, Red Ketchum, and Lorelei Prima. Lorelei was the one human it saw the most as she visits from time to time to make sure the figure was doing okay.
However, this figure received a telepathic message from one of its brothers saying that two more humans will show their faces. The bird figure heard about these two humans and how they managed to rid of an evil murderer, and that it must get them ready for what's to come.
The humans would come soon.
Seafoam Island-Cave
As they walk through the cave, they could feel that it was notably colder. It looked more like an ice cavern, but there wasn't huge chunks of ice, just more of a snow color. There were specks of ice around due to the cold air.
Ash and Serena were walking arguably close to each other for warmth. The embrace felt nice as they walked through the cave. The fact that they were a couple made the huddle feel tingly inside. The two ignored the notably colder air as all they needed was each other.
They turn around to see Pikachu and Munchlax walking beside them. They smiled to know at least they were doing well.
"Isn't it beautiful in here?" Serena asked lovingly.
"Yeah, a little chilly, but it's beautiful," Ash responded lovingly.
The two looked around and admired the beauty of the cave. As they get further through the cave, they notice a small river with water flowing. The water may be considered cold. There was another thing that disturbed them.
There were no Pokémon to be found.
For a cave that was supposed to be chuck full of water and ice Pokémon, there weren't any to be found. What could have happened to all of the Pokémon?
"I wonder where all the Pokémon are?" Ash asked as he looked around.
"I'm surprised to see that there are no Pokémon in here," Rotom Dex muttered.
"For a place that inhabits plenty of water and ice Pokémon, I don't see a single one," Serena uttered.
While the cave was beautiful and cold, they haven't found a single Pokémon. No Magikarp, no Tentacool, not even a Arceus damn Zubat. It was a mystery on what could've happened. Then all of a sudden…
"AHHHH!" both Ash and Serena screamed.
A sinkhole opened up right under Ash and Serena. They held hands as a gaping hole appeared right underneath them and they grabbed onto the ledge. Pikachu and Munchlax gasped in horror as the two nearly fell.
"Man, I didn't see that!" Ash cried.
"Tell me about it, I didn't think this cave would be capable of having sinkholes," Serena said.
Ash was holding on tight as he could to the ledge with Serena hugging his ankles to hold on. The fact that Serena was hanging on made it harder for Ash to pull them both up, not to mention he struggled to use his leg strength as he didn't want Serena to sway around.
Ash couldn't reach for any of his Pokémon as he feared that if he let one hand off the ledge, it could completely weaken the grip and they could slip and fall to their deaths. Serena was doing the same as she didn't want to risk falling.
"Serena, do you think you can climb up on me and reach for Ivysaur's Pokeball?" Ash asked as he continued to hold on.
"I can't Ash, if I try to reach up I might weigh you down and make it harder," Serena answered, "Besides, do you really think Ivysaur would help you right now?"
Serena made a good point, Ivysaur was still sour towards Ash. He refused to do anything in a Pokémon battle for his and Serena's freedom, and it's notable that Ivysaur isn't likely going to try and pull Ash and Serena up right now.
"If I could reach for my Pokeballs without a problem, I would bring Delphox out and have her use Psychic on us to bring us up," Serena told Ash.
"I see what you mean," Ash sighed as he struggled to hang on.
Pikachu and Munchlax ran up towards Ash and they grabbed his fingertips. Pikachu had little hands making it hard for him to get a good hold of Ash, but Munchlax had an easier time as he used his hands to clamp on Ash's.
"Thanks, now help pull us up," Ash praised the two.
Pikachu and Munchlax began to use their strength to help pull the two up. Ash was slowly being reeled up with Serena still holding on. It looked like everything was going to be okay until…
The ledges started giving in and Pikachu and Munchlax were now caught in the mist of it. They tried as hard and fast as they could, but it was too late. The ledges crumbled and Ash completely lost his grip.
"AHHHHHHHHHH!" all four screamed as they plummeted down the hole.
"Ash, Serena, Pikachu, Munchlax!" Rotom Dex cried as it zoomed down the hole.
All four were screaming as they fell as they were now emerging towards their deaths. Rotom Dex went fast as it could, but the group was falling too fast. They were now lost in the pitch-black hole only hoping a miracle would happen.
Seafoam Island-?'s Den
The bird figure in the shadows was looking up as it was awaiting for the humans to arrive. It felt they were here where the figure send out a loud caw to create a hole to bring these humans down. They were finally falling.
Once they were in sight, the bird also saw a Pikachu and a Munchlax with them along with what appears to be a floating TV. To make sure they were not falling to their deaths, the bird in the shadows started to swoop in and grab those humans. They stopped screaming when they feel that they landed on something soft.
Ash, Serena, Pikachu, Munchlax look at what they landed on. It didn't look like a floor because this blue was much brighter than the blue on the cave floor. Then in a few moments, the group was being brought down as the bird figure descended. They all got off and safely landed on the ground.
They were all memorized on what just happened. One moment they were falling to their certain deaths, next thing they know this figure saved them. The bird figure returned to its resting place. The whole group gasped once they saw what this bird looked like.
The bird was sky blue with a lighter blue belly, it had chunks of blue hair sticking up in front, a grey beak, its wings looked like angel wings, and it had a long blue ribbon like tail.
"Oh my Arceus…it's…it's," Serena choked up.
"I've been waiting for you Ash Ketchum and Serena Gabena," the bird said as it would now introduce itself, "I am Articuno."
So the rumors were true, Articuno did reside in this cave. Ash and Serena already met one legendary and now they were meeting another. Rotom Dex was cheering in excitement.
"Wohoo! Another legendary Pokémon!" Rotom Dex cheered as it then gave a polite cough, "Excuse me, may I please get data on you."
"Since you're aiding them on their adventure, you may go ahead. Just make it quick, there is some things I must discuss," Articuno told Rotom Dex.
"Most certainly," said Rotom Dex as it did an analysis on Articuno.
#144-Articuno: Freeze Pokémon
A legendary bird Pokémon. It freezes water that is contained in winter air and makes it snow.
"All done," Rotom Dex chirped.
"Very well," Articuno replied.
The whole group was still looking up in shock that Articuno was not only present in front of them, but it saved their lives. This was actually the den of Articuno.
"Thank you for saving us," Serena replied.
"Don't thank me, truth was I was the one who created that sinkhole," Articuno confessed.
"You created that sinkhole that nearly killed us," Ash gasped.
"No, I wasn't intending to kill you, I felt your presence and knew that you would be coming so I created that hole in the ground to bring you to me." Articuno explained, "I knew that you wouldn't survive that big of a fall, so I made sure to jump up and catch you to cushion your fall. I hope you can forgive me for that."
"You're a legendary Pokémon, and we love all Pokémon. Of course we can forgive you," Ash told the legendary bird.
The legendary bird nodded his head. Articuno did give them a scare but Ash knows who to respect, especially when it comes to Pokémon with a high authority. Serena, Pikachu, and Munchlax were forgiving of the bird as well as they knew it wasn't aiming to hurt them, just to talk to them.
Wait, talk to them. Didn't Zapdos mention something to the group back in their previous encounters?
"So what did you want to talk to us about?" Serena asked.
"Did what I hear from my brother is true that you were the ones who rid this world of Siegfried?" Articuno asked.
"Well technically, it was Greninja and Delphox who actually killed him," Ash answered as he looked at his blue Pokeball.
Serena was also looking at her red Pokeball which contained her Delphox. Both of the Pokeballs wiggled as a way of sending the message to Articuno. Pikachu and Munchlax nodded their heads in sadness as they remember that horrible moment. Ash and Serena were killed by a corrupted ranger as they couldn't be there to help them, but their spirits found a way to help their Pokémon, and then encourage Greninja and Delphox to use the Scared Ash on them to revive them.
"Zapdos shared the details of everything that happened during the struggle. Not only did you get rid of Siegfried, but you took the correct actions to preserve your happiness and deliver justice which is why Zapdos granted you the fragment of power," Articuno explained as if it were praising them.
Ash and Serena now remembered. Zapdos told them that whenever they met a legendary bird, they would carry a fragment of power for something connected to the GS Ball they found. That meant Articuno had to have a fragment of power as well.
"Now, I believe you two hold the GS Ball that carries a fragment of power, am I correct?" Articuno asked.
"Yes," Serena answered as she pulled the special Pokeball out of her pocket, "Zapdos said that this Pokeball was given to us by your master who happens to be Lugia."
Articuno inspected the GS Ball as Serena explained how she and Ash got that special Pokeball. Articuno's eyes did not deceive as that was the GS Ball Lugia left them with.
"You are correct," Articuno said, "And I can confirm this is the same one, and I sense a fragment of power inside. That meant Zapdos did trust you with the fragment he has been protecting."
Ash and Serena continued to look at Articuno. If Zapdos said correctly, anytime they meet one of the legendary three birds, they will soon engage in a battle with a dark force. This may be a premonition that another dark force will soon strike.
"Do you have a fragment of power?" Ash asked.
"Indeed I do," Articuno answered.
Articuno had some kind of spirit come out of its chest. It looked exactly like the fragment of power Zapdos had only this fairy looking spirit was blue instead of yellow.
"Wow," Ash and Serena said in amazement.
"If you take the correct actions in triumphing over this dark force, this fragment of power will be yours," Articuno confirmed.
"Are you going to tell us who it is?" Serena questioned.
"No, but I will tell you this. The dark force you will be facing has already been around this region for some time," Articuno answered.
An evil that has been around for some time. Well Zapdos said one of the three dark forces would come to Kanto, one was already in Kanto, and one would soon be born. If the logic was correct and Articuno said the dark force they were facing was here for a while, then that meant Siegfried was the dark force that was coming to Kanto. So sometime when they have their meeting with Moltres, that would be the dark force who was born into the world.
"So when Zapdos was talking about the three dark forces and how they would be coming, was Siegfried the one that was coming?" Serena asked.
"Correct," Articuno confirmed.
So that did mean when they meet Moltres, it would be letting them know about the dark force that will be born into the world.
"Now allow me to explain, when you fought the first dark force in Siegfried, the main concept involved in that battle was courage," Articuno stated, "For this dark force you will be going up against, your families will have a role affecting the strength of this force you will be facing."
Well this was something that got their heads going. While bravery was needed to take down Siegfried, they now learned that their own families are going to have a part in taking down this second dark force.
The only families they can think of are Ash's mom Delia, his aunt Yellow, and Serena's moms Grace and Jade. There was Ash's father Red, but he's never around. They aren't even telling their moms about this prophecy involving the GS Ball when the voice who may happen to be Lugia told them to tell no one. So how are they going to explain it, and what part do they have in it?
"Our own families?" Ash questioned.
"What does our families have to do with this second dark force?" Serena asked.
"Ash Ketchum, you are the son of Red Ketchum, am I correct?" Articuno questioned.
"Um, yes," Ash answered, "So you have met my dad?"
"As me and my brothers have flown across the land, we have laid eyes on a great Pokémon trainer who goes by the name Red. He has proven to be one of the greatest Pokémon trainers ever with not only how strong his Pokémon were, but how he grew to connect with them," Articuno explained.
Ash couldn't argue with that. That was one of the traits he has gained with Pokémon. Treating them as partners and not tools for their own use. Ash has always tried to connect with his Pokémon, especially how he is raising Munchlax as his own son right now. If he could just get to Ivysaur. That wasn't what should be on his mind right now.
"Then there he met a human who's only desire was to have strong Pokémon and be considered the world's greatest Pokémon trainer. This human has hated Red, and Red's actions only fueled him to fall further and become more dangerous," Articuno explained.
Ash and Serena listened to what Articuno said about a human who hated Red. If Ash can recall, one of Team Rocket's bosses, Giovanni, admitted he hated his father. However, Giovanni never talked about why he hated him.
Ash stepped forward and approached Articuno. He needed to verify if it and the other birds knew about this.
"Articuno, I would like to ask you something," Ash told Articuno.
"Go ahead," Articuno spoke.
Pikachu and Munchlax were hugging each other for support. It kind of made them nervous that Ash approached a legendary Pokémon like that.
"This human that hated Red, was his name…Giovanni?" Ash asked.
Articuno closed his eyes and reflected on that name. If Articuno and the other legendary birds around Kanto knew about this Giovanni, he tried to take actions with DNA from the legendary Pokémon Mew only to make himself stronger. Giovanni wounded up being a trainer who did horrible things.
"Yes it was," Articuno confirmed.
Ash and Serena gasped when they heard that. They have had many encounters with Team Rocket throughout their journey and now clarification that they were the second dark force, well that sort of surprised them.
"Does this mean that Giovanni, his wife, and the organization Team Rocket…is the second dark force we have to face?" Serena asked.
"I guess there is no need keeping the secret anymore. Judging by the knowledge you have gained from your travels and the tale I've told you about Red…yes, it is the terrorist group Team Rocket," Articuno confirmed.
Ash and Serena looked down at the ground. The Kanto government has struggled to put a stop to Team Rocket for years, and now it has been foreseen that Ash and Serena have to take part in that battle.
"But don't stand there awaiting that moment. Take the time to enjoy the time you have. The final battle with Team Rocket will come when the times comes." Articuno stated.
"We understand," Ash muttered.
Then something was on Serena's mind. Articuno said that their families were involved with how Team Rocket could have come to be. Ash's side was explained, but where did Serena's family fit into that category?
"Articuno, I understand how Ash's dad may have unintentionally pushed Team Rocket to the heights they're at now, but how did my family fare in this?" Serena questioned.
"I'm sorry, but I've already given away too much. You'll know soon enough how your family was involved," Articuno sadly answered.
So Serena had no clue on how her mothers could have been involved with Giovanni. She can recall her mothers being targeted for her and Ash's actions against the organization, but that's all she can learn from.
"Now remember what Zapdos has told you. Just beating this dark force won't give you your reward, but the correct actions from you, your Pokémon, and others that are close to you can bring rightful justice to Team Rocket and your loved ones. Just remember those who care for you will go out of the way to help you," Articuno explained.
"Just like how me and Ash do for each other, and how we and our Pokémon do for each other," Serena stated.
"That is correct," Articuno confirmed.
Ash and Serena looked at each other with determination and then they turned to Pikachu and Munchlax with that same look. They were going to come together and beat Team Rocket, just like they did against Siegfried.
The group probably didn't pay attention to the clues that the two of them and their Pokémon might not be enough to take them down. They can even recall when Giovanni's Persian and Ariana's Porygon2 wiped the floor with Greninja and Delphox. But if their loved ones did get involved, how would they help?
Articuno then pointed its wing towards an opening towards in the room. The group looked where Articuno was pointing and it was pointing to a way out. At least Articuno was going to get them to safety.
"This is where we must part ways now. We have foreseen that your final battle will come soon. We will meet again after the job is done," Articuno said giving a bow.
"Thanks Articuno, we'll see you soon," Ash told Articuno.
"Thanks for everything, we won't tell anyone you're down here," Serena said giving a bow.
"It would be my pleasure you didn't tell anyone," Articuno said, "I wish you the best of luck."
With that, Ash, Serena, Pikachu, Munchlax, and Rotom Dex all began to trek out of the cave. They were awfully nervous that they were going to have to be the ones to stop Team Rocket because a legendary Pokémon told them.
There were many things running through their heads like should they tell their mothers, are they going to be in danger, and most importantly, can they beat the two Rocket kingpins in a rematch?
For the sake of the Kanto Region, and for all of the Pokémon, and possibly the world, they hope they had what it takes to get the job done. They can't afford to die again like they did with Siegfried. The time would come when they have to fight.
Seafoam Island
They followed the path in the cave that Articuno pointed them too, and as a result, Ash and Serena were back outside. It felt good to feel that warm crisp air again after being inside such a cool cave. It was a treat for the two of them to meet Articuno despite the news it gave them.
They looked out into the ocean facing west. Cinnibar Island was out in that direction. Ash was holding Lapras's Pokeball while Serena was holding Gyarados's Pokeball. Before entering the ocean, Ash and Serena looked each other in the eyes.
"I was thinking Ash," Serena said as she broke the silence.
"About what?" Ash asked as he tilted his head.
"What Articuno told us about the second dark force with it being Team Rocket, I just don't understand how my moms could've had an impact in it," Serena said.
"What do you mean?" Ash asked.
"Well we learned that your father and Giovanni hated each other, but what did he or anyone in Team Rocket had against my family? Serena questioned as he was thinking.
Ash stood there thinking about what Serena said. Ash didn't know much about his father except that he was once the champion of Kanto until he left them and gave the title to Blue. Ash could ask his dad about this, but he never sees him so he can't talk to him about it.
The best thing Ash can do is talk to his mother about it, but it would involve having to tell her that he has been getting in Team Rocket's way again. Chances are his mother was involved only because she is Red's wife, and Grace and Jade are being involved because he and Serena keep bumping into that organization.
"Serena, the only thing I can say is that maybe the fact you were going against Team Rocket as well may have gotten your mothers into the mix," Ash sighed.
"Do you really think that could be the case?" Serena asked.
"That's all I can think of," Ash answered.
Serena looked onward out into the ocean while at thought. Was there really a way her moms were involved with Team Rocket or was it just her antics of fighting them that got them involved.
Serena can still recall when she surrender the ghost Pokémon to Jessie and James just to save them. Maybe while she may have saved the trio, she could've saved her moms as well.
"Just promise me one thing Ash," Serena replied.
"Sure Serena, what's that," Ash kindly said.
"We're going to be ready for Giovanni and his wife when we see them again," Serena responded.
Ash was kind of scared of facing Giovanni again, but as Articuno told them, they have to be the ones to stop Team Rocket if they ever wish to obtain the second fragment of power.
"You bet we will," Ash replied with a thumbs up.
"And we'll be there too," Rotom Dex responded, "As long as there is no bastards separating us."
"Pikachu!" Pikachu replied saying he will fight too.
"Munchlax!" Munchlax replied saying he'll do anything to help.
"Thanks guys, and I know all of our Pokémon will be there to help us when the time comes," Ash declared with determination as he looked at his Pokeball, "I hope Ivysaur plans to help us too."
Ash wasn't too fond that Ivysaur would be part of the battle. He wasn't part of the first dark force in which all of Ash's and Serena's Pokémon grew a lot closer to him. Maybe if Ivysaur back when he was Bulbasaur was there at the time, maybe Ivysaur would have some respect for him. But what's done is done, and it's time to move on.
"Well what are we waiting for, the Cinnibar Gym is calling my name!" Ash declared pumping his fist.
"And so is my final ribbon!" Serena declared as he pumped her fist too.
Both of them released their Pokémon and hopped on. Just like before, Ash got on Lapras while Serena got on Gyarados. Pikachu and Munchlax took the same riding arrangements with Pikachu riding on Serena's shoulder and Munchlax laying on Lapras's shell.
Lapras had a much easier time getting into the water now. After the first time a couple of hours ago, Lapras wasn't as scared as she was before. She was a lot more comfortable now.
"Alright Lapras, full speed ahead!" Ash commanded to Lapras.
"You too Gyarados!" Serena commanded to Gyarados.
Lapras gave out a loud cry while Gyarados gave out a loud roar. The two Pokémon went out at high speed, but Gyarados was going too fast for Serena. She told Gyarados to slow down which she did to go at the same pace as Lapras.
"We should arrive at Cinnibar Island in twenty minutes!" Rotom Dex confirmed.
Now Ash and Serena were on their way to Cinnibar Island where they hope to add another badge and ribbon to their names.
However, Articuno's warning was still in the back of their heads. Ash and Serena knew that Team Rocket was going to make another move soon, and that they were going to be the ones to put a stop to that. While the sky was clear and the water was crystal blue, it was not notable to the naked eye that a dark omen would bestow on them soon.
Team Rocket Headquarters-Lab
It's been a few weeks since Team Rocket had to abandoned their plans at the Silph Company. While they were not able to completely finish the test run on the Master Ball, they did fax over the blueprints to headquarters so they can continue the operations at their main base.
Thanks to those blueprints, they have resumed the operations of the Master Ball to make sure that it would preserve a 100% capture rate. Only now they don't have a decently difficult Pokémon to catch anymore which happened to be Lapras, so now they had to just use an Onix to catch one-thousand times straight. They hoped that the Master Ball would be ready for when Mewtwo was ready.
As for the clone, in another part of Team Rocket's Headquarters, Professor Namba and Archer have monitored the specimen for the past few weeks. Great progress has been made in the cloning process as there were now fully functional organs, and all they were waiting for was a pulse from the heart.
"We've been making great progress on Mewtwo, at this rate it will soon be living and breathing like an actual being," Namba declared as he turned to Archer, "We may be ready in a few days."
The rockets weren't aware of the fact that Giovanni was watching from the distance. The evil man was smirking as he knew that soon his creation was going to be complete.
Once Mewtwo was ready to awaken, he would wreak havoc on this region and then the world. Most importantly, he would get rid of those who defied him.
Flashback
Viridian City-18 years ago
After Giovanni ran off with Mew's strand of hair, he has not shown his face in Pallet Town or in front of Red. People would know that he was the one who escaped from the lab with Mew's DNA.
Professor Oak knew that Giovanni had to be the one that ran off with it because he knew that Giovanni only wanted to use it as a way to track down Mew and claim the Pokémon for himself. The professor was devasted that the sample from the world's rarest specimen was stolen by that selfish Pokémon trainer. He already lost respect when he dumped his starter, and now and shred of respect was long gone when he sabotaged his research.
Giovanni was using that strand of hair for the past four years in hopes of finding the mythical Pokémon. However, he had no luck. No matter what he did, he has never come close to locating the Pokémon.
Giovanni looked at that strand of hair with a disgusted look on his face. Has he been wasting the last four years of his life trying to find something with just a piece of hair?
"Four years, for the past four years, I've come up empty in finding Mew," Giovanni muttered, "Why won't that Pokémon show."
He hasn't been able to track down Mew or get any hints on where the Pokémon's main habitat is. All he has is a piece of Mew's DNA. Maybe he should stuck with Professor Oak and let him take a look at it, then there would be a better chance of bringing Mew in. But what's done is done, he was not going to show his face to them anymore and risk the chance of being shunned out of a possible research method.
"Is there something I'm doing wrong? What more do I have to do?" Giovanni questioned himself.
Giovanni hasn't been a patient man but spending four years in hopes of finding Mew. Surprisingly, he hasn't completely lost his mind yet, especially since he was by himself.
Wait a minute, that was it. He was by himself. He couldn't do this alone, he needed help. If Giovanni wished to obtain the legendary Pokémon Mew for himself, he would need to gather allies to help him obtain that Pokémon. There was no way he would go to Professor Oak for that, or his son, or…Red! He was the one who tried to take any chances of getting Mew away from him.
"That's it…I need assistance," Giovanni stated.
What Giovanni needed was a whole bunch of Pokémon trainers. He would have those Pokémon trainers assist him in obtaining the legendary Pokémon. He also thought that he shouldn't just bring any Pokémon trainers, but also ones that are high in intelligence and can carry engineering skills.
"If I can gather enough Pokémon trainers that can listen to me, we can find Mew and I can finally obtain it," Giovanni said as he looked at Mew's DNA.
His eyes began to sparkle, and an evil smile was formed on his face as he looked at the strand of hair. If he could gather enough strong trainers and strong minds and have them work together, they could finally obtain Mew.
Of course Giovanni can't just find trainers and expect them to help them. He needed to provide them resources and forms of payment. This is when Giovanni would now fall further to the dark side.
"And once I have Mew, those bastards in Pallet Town will pay for defying me," Giovanni said.
End Flashback
And true to his word he was. Giovanni has started to train his Pokémon to commit sneaky criminal activities mostly in stealing money from the banks. His techniques were quite remarkable and has helped him obtain one-hundred million Pokedollars which gave him extreme wealth. He would even take the time to study business ethics as his group would also act as a business.
Giovanni's treasures and money would add up over the years and he would be able to start searching for such help in capturing Mew. He would give this group a name and the name needed to include a sense of power, the speed of their rising, and to go beyond. He came up with the name for his group, and he called it Team Rocket.
Throughout the years, his organization would commit such devious acts in hopes of getting further into getting Mew. However, as time went by, there was still no progress in obtaining Mew. Then something struck him.
Some of these members were scientists, and most of them were gather by the head scientist of the organization, Professor Namba. Giovanni still had that strand of hair. One day, the scientists heard about illegal Pokémon cloning over in the Unova Region. They also mentioned that Pokémon's DNA was used into making those clones. The international police busted them and shut down the operation.
It did however present an opportunity. With the DNA of Mew, they could actually seize the operations of finding Mew and instead…create their own Mew. Once they have obtained enough profits through their evil deeds and business, they would be able to obtain the resources to begin the cloning process. Giovanni even sent some of his men for a mission to Unova to gather notes on how the illegal cloning process went and bring that information to them.
Those scientists informed him that only would they create a clone of Mew, but with their brains and resources, they could make this clone stronger than the original. Giovanni smiled when he heard that. He didn't need Mew after all, he could this clone instead. But the clone of Mew would need a name. He would call it, Mewtwo.
Team Rocket would commit more crimes in obtaining Pokémon to help step on those who get in his way and to try and get further into completing the process. If was in his mind that this Pokémon would be ready to attack so he needed an army of Pokémon to help fight it if it should go wild.
He also used business tactics such as the casino in which they could sell those stolen Pokémon for a good profit while gamblers blow their money away in which they would purchase the Silph Company in where they have heard about the company's attempt of creating the ultimate Pokeball that would have a guaranteed 100% capture rate.
He longer had those because of boy who happens to be Red's son and his girlfriend. But that didn't matter to the Rocket kingpin, the project was almost done. Giovanni almost shed in a tear in his eye as the clone was almost done.
"Soon, everyone who has defied me will suffer. Once Mewtwo is complete, I will take you all out and this world will be mine," Giovanni said darkly, "Especially you Ash Ketchum…and Serena Gabena."
Giovanni had a big vendetta against Ash and Serena, mostly because Serena was Ash's girlfriend. His wife on the other hand, also carried that same vendetta against them, but for a different reason. While it did involve them getting in Team Rocket's way, he knew there was something else involved.
Team Rocket would make their move soon.
I think we should've seen this coming. The second dark force is indeed going to be the final bout with Team Rocket. I'm looking forward to when that time comes which will be after Cinnibar Island.
But Serena did raise a good question. What did her moms have to do with Team Rocket? Was their more to Team Rocket they don't know about? The answers will come very soon.
Next time, the Cinnibar Island arc where Ash and Serena will finally obtain their fossil Pokémon, Serena aims for her fifth and final ribbon, and Ash will challenge Blaine for his seventh badge. We also will see some familiar faces on the island.
Until them, we'll see you next time. Don't forget to review.
Chapter 66: Welcome to Cinnibar Island
